Human Papillomavirus Concordance Between Parents and Their Newborn Offspring: Results From the Finnish Family Human Papillomavirus Study.

BACKGROUND: The knowledge on vertical human papillomavirus (HPV) transmission is limited. We aimed to determine whether HPV transmission from parents to their offspring occurs before or during birth. METHODS: Altogether, 321 mothers, 134 fathers, and their 321 newborn offspring from the Finnish Family HPV study cohort were included. Parents' genital and oral brush samples and semen samples were collected for HPV testing at baseline (36 weeks of pregnancy). Oral, genital, and umbilical samples from the newborn and placenta samples were collected for HPV testing immediately after delivery. HPV risk for the newborn was calculated from the mother's and father's HPV status by using logistic regression analyses. RESULTS: Concordances between mothers' and their newborns' HPV genotype at any site were statistically significant with HPV-6, -16, -18, -31, and -56; odds ratios (ORs) ranged from 3.41 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.80-6.48) for HPV-16 to 634 (95% CI, 28.5-14 087) for HPV-31. Father-newborn HPV concordance was statistically significant with HPV-6 and HPV-31 (ORs, 4.89 [95% CI, 1.09-21.9] and 65.0 [95% CI, 2.92-1448], respectively). CONCLUSIONS: The genotype-specific HPV concordance between parents and their newborn is suggestive for vertical HPV transmission. However, transmission from the father to the newborn remains more uncertain.

Neuropilin-1 and placental growth factor as prognostic factors in metastatic breast cancer.

BACKGROUND: Angiogenesis is crucial for tumor development, progression, and metastasizing. The most important regulator of angiogenesis is the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family, which is involved in multiple pathways in tumor microenvironment. The objective of this study was to investigate the prognostic value of the VEGF family in patients treated for metastatic breast cancer. The emphasis was on neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) and placental growth factor (PlGF). MATERIALS AND METHODS: An analysis of eight members of the VEGF family was performed using baseline plasma samples of 65 patients treated for metastatic HER2 negative breast cancer in a phase II first-line bevacizumab plus chemotherapy trial. The patients were divided into two groups, high or low, according to the median for each VEGF family member. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were determined for each VEGF family member. RESULTS: The patients with low plasma levels of NRP-1 and PlGF had a longer OS than those with high plasma levels [multivariable adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) 2.54 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.11-5.82, p = 0.02) and 3.11 (95% CI 1.30-7.47, p = 0.01), respectively]. The patients with low levels of both NRP-1 and PlGF had a remarkably long OS with HR of 6.24, (95% CI 1.97-19.76, p = 0.002). In addition, high baseline NRP-1 level was associated with a significantly shorter PFS [multivariable adjusted HR 2.90 (95% CI 1.02-8.28, p = 0.04)] than that in the low-level group, and a high baseline vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 level was associated with a longer PFS [multivariable adjusted HR 0.43 (95% CI 0.19-0.98, p = 0.04)]. CONCLUSION: Especially NRP-1 and PlGF have prognostic potential in metastatic breast cancer patients treated with a bevacizumab-taxane combination. Patients with low plasma levels of NRP-1 or PlGF have longer OS than patients with high levels. Patients with both low NRP-1 and PlGF levels appear to have excellent long-term survival. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00979641, registration date 18/09/2009. The regional Ethics Committee: R08142M, registration date 18/11/2008.

Recent Changes in the Incidence and Characteristics of Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinomas in Finland from 2006 to 2020: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

Registers recording only 1 tumour per patient do not enable assessment of the real burden of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. To investigate recent changes in the incidence and characteristics of tumours, a retrospective 15-year patient cohort study was performed in Finland. Histopathological diagnoses of cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas diagnosed between 2016 and 2020 were obtained from the pathology database and clinical data from patient medical records and combined with previously collected data for the years 2006-2015. Altogether 1,472 patients with 2,056 tumours were identified. The crude incidence increased from 19/100,000 persons in 2006 to 42 in 2020 (p < 0.001), increasing most in people aged over 80 years. The percentage of tumours located on the trunk increased from 5.3% during the first 5-year period, 2006-2010, to 9.0% in 2016-2020. Also, the location of tumours was significantly different between men and women, as men had more tumours on the scalp and ears, and women on the lower limbs. A slight change in the tumours from poorly to well differentiated and a decrease in the invasion depth were noted between 2006 and 2020. As the burden of tumours continues to increase, more attention should be paid to their prevention.

Do urinary and double incontinence predict changes in living arrangements and mobility in older women after hip fracture? - a 1-year prospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Continence problems are known to be associated with disability in older adults. Costs of disability and resulting need for more supported living arrangements are high after a hip fracture. The aim was to examine pre-fracture urinary incontinence (UI) and double incontinence (DI, concurrent UI and fecal incontinence) as predictors of changes in mobility and living arrangements in older female hip fracture patients in a 1-year follow-up. METHODS: Study population comprised 1,675 female patients aged ≥ 65 (mean age 82.7 ± 6.8) sustaining their first hip fracture between 2007-2019. Data on self-reported pre-fracture continence status was collected. The outcomes were declined vs. same or improved mobility level and need for more assisted vs same or less assisted living arrangements 1-year post-fracture. Separate cohorts of 1,226 and 1,055 women were generated for the mobility and living arrangements outcomes, respectively. Age- and multivariable-adjusted logistic regression models were used to determine the associations of UI, DI, and other baseline characteristics with the outcomes. RESULTS: Of the patients, 39% had declined mobility or more assisted living arrangements at 1-year follow-up. Adjusting for age, both pre-fracture UI and DI were associated with changes in mobility and living arrangements. In the multivariable analysis, UI (OR 1.88, 95% CI 1.41-2.51) and DI (1.99, 95% CI 1.21-3.27) were associated with decline in mobility level while only DI (OR 2.40, 95% CI 1.22-4.75) remained associated with the need for more assisted living arrangements. CONCLUSIONS: Both pre-fracture UI and DI in older women are risk factors for declining mobility level, but only DI for more supported living arrangements 1-year post-hip fracture. UI likely develops earlier in life and might not necessarily be strongly associated with the onset or increasing disability in later years. DI may indicate more marked vulnerability and burden to patients as well as to formal and informal caregivers.

Incidence, seasonal pattern, and clinical manifestations of Streptococcus dysgalactiae subspecies equisimilis bacteremia; a population-based study.

Streptococcus dysgalactiae subspecies equisimilis (SDSE) is a human pathogen causing severe invasive infections. Population-based studies on SDSE bacteremia are limited. The purpose of this study was to investigate the incidence, seasonal pattern, clinical manifestations, and recurrence of SDSE bacteraemia. Records regarding patients aged ≥ 18 years with SDSE bacteremia in the Pirkanmaa health district in August 2015 to July 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. A total of 230 SDSE bacteremia episodes were identified, with 217 episodes (involving 211 patients) available for analysis. The mean annual incidence rate of SDSE bacteremia was 16.9/100 000 inhabitants. Most episodes (33%) were detected in the summer (June to August) (p = 0.058). Episodes with bacteremic cellulitis were statistically significantly more common during the summer compared with other seasons (p = 0.008). Cellulitis was the most common presenting clinical manifestation of SDSE bacteremia (68% of all episodes). Risk factors of recurring bacteremia were chronic eczema and/or skin erosion (OR 3.96 [95% CI 1.11-14.1]), heart disease (OR 3.56 [95% CI 1.22-10.4]), diabetes (OR 3.77 [95% CI 1.35-10.5]) and a history of cellulitis. We found a remarkably high incidence of SDSE bacteraemia in the Pirkanmaa health district. Bacteraemic cellulitis, which was the predominant clinical manifestation is more often occurred in the summer. Risk factors of recurring SDSE bacteremia were a history of cellulitis, chronic eczema or skin erosion, diabetes, and heart disease.

Survival with lung cancer in Finland has not improved during 2007-2019-a single center retrospective population-based real-world study.

OBJECTIVES: According to the CONCORD-3 study, the 5-year survival rate of lung cancer patients in Finland has not improved during the twenty-first century. In the present study, we evaluated the survival trends of lung cancer patients diagnosed and treated in one of the five university hospitals in Finland to determine possible explanatory factors behind the lack of improved survival. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This retrospective population-based study included all lung cancer patients diagnosed in Tampere University Hospital in 2007-2019 (N = 3041). The study population was divided into two subcohorts: the patients diagnosed in 2007-2012 and those diagnosed in 2013-2019. The two subcohorts were then compared to analyze the temporal changes in survival and the distribution of prognostic factors. RESULTS: A comparison of the patients diagnosed in 2007-2012 and 2013-2019 showed that the patients' overall survival had remained unchanged. The median overall survival was 8.7 months in the earlier subcohort and 9.2 months in the later subcohort. The respective 5-year survival rates were 16.6% and 17.8%, and these differences were not statistically significant. The proportion of stage IV patients (approximately 59% in both subcohorts) and their risk of death were similar for the two subcohorts. According to the regression analysis, male gender, advanced stage, and poor Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status were independent risk factors for death, while a never-smoking status and mutation-positive disease were associated with a decreased risk of death, but only in the later cohort. CONCLUSION: Echoing the results of CONCORD-3, this study confirmed that the real-world survival of unselected lung cancer populations in Finland has not improved over the last 15 years, mainly because of the unchanged proportions of patients with late-stage lung cancer. This calls for earlier recognition of lung cancer, achieved by screening and increasing awareness of the disease.

Major risk factors for Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis bacteremia: a population-based study.

BACKGROUND: Streptococcus dysgalactiae subspecies equisimilis is a human pathogen causing severe invasive infections. Detailed information on S. dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis bacteremia and especially of predisposing factors are lacking. The purpose of the study is to investigate the risk factors of S. dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis bacteremia compared to the general population in Finland. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed all patients older than 18 years with S. dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis bacteremia in the Pirkanmaa health district from August 2015 to July 2018. The risk factors for S. dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis bacteremia were investigated with respect to the normal population in Finland using the Finhealth study data provided by the Finnish institute for health and welfare. The study group was matched with the Finhealth study by age and sex. RESULTS: Altogether 230 cases of S. dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis bacteremia were detected. The medical records of 217 episodes of S. dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis bacteremia (involving 211 patients) were available for analysis. Obesity was a statistically significant risk factor for S. dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis bacteremia (Odds Ratio 2.96 [95% CI 2.22-3.96]). Diabetes and coronary artery disease were also associated with an increased risk of S. dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis bacteremia (OR 4.82 [95% CI 3.62-6.42]) and (OR 3.03 [95% CI 2.18-4.19]). CONCLUSIONS: We found obesity, diabetes, and coronary artery disease to be associated with an increased risk for S. dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis bacteremia. These results provide an increased understanding of risk factors for S. dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis bacteremia.

Pertrochanteric hip fracture is associated with mobility decline and poorer physical performance 4 to 6 months post-hip fracture.

BACKGROUND: To study the effect of hip fracture type on physical performance, functional ability and change in mobility four to six months after the injury. METHODS: A total of 1331 patients out of consecutive 2052 patients aged ≥ 65 years who underwent hip fracture surgery were included in the study. Patient information was collected on admission, during hospitalization, by phone interview and at the geriatric outpatient clinic 4 to 6 months after the fracture. Of the 1331 eligible patients, Grip strength, Timed Up and Go -test (TUG), Elderly Mobility Scale (EMS), mobility change compared to pre-fracture mobility level, Basic Activities of Daily Living (BADL) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) were used to determine physical performance and functional ability. Logistic regression was used for the analyses which was adjusted for gender, age, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, diagnosis of cognitive disorder, pre-fracture living arrangements, mobility and need of mobility aid. RESULTS: Patients with pertrochanteric hip fracture had an EMS lower than 14 (Odds Ratio (OR) 1.38, 95% confidence intervals (CI) 1.00-1.90), TUG time ≥ 20 s (OR 1.69, 95% CI 1.22-2.33) and they had declined in mobility (OR 1.58, 95% CI 1.20-2.09) compared to femoral neck fracture patients 4 to 6 months post-hip fracture in multivariable-adjusted logistic regression analyses. Grip strength and functional ability (IADL, BADL) 4 to 6 months after hip fracture did not differ between fracture types. There were no statistically significant differences in physical performance in patients with a subtrochanteric fracture compared to patients with a femoral neck fracture. CONCLUSIONS: Pertrochanteric hip fracture independently associated with poorer physical performance 4 to 6 months post hip fracture compared to other hip fracture types. Pertrochanteric hip fracture patients should be given special attention in terms of regaining their previous level of mobility.

2-weekly versus 3-weekly docetaxel for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer: complete quality of life results from the randomised, phase-III PROSTY trial.

INTRODUCTION: Treatment with 2-weekly docetaxel 50 mg/m2 was shown to improve overall survival and was better tolerated than the standard 75 mg/m2 3-weekly regimen in men with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) in the original randomised PROSTY trial. The aim of this study was to investigate, whether quality of life (QoL) effects would differ between the 2-weekly docetaxel 50 mg/m2 regimen from the standard 3-weekly 75 mg/m2 treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: QoL data were collected with the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy - Prostate (FACT-P) and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy Advanced Prostate Symptom Index - 8 Item version (FAPSI-8). Pain was measured using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). A total of 743 forms from 163 patients were analysed in Arm A (2-weekly docetaxel), and 704 forms from 173 patients were analysed in Arm B (3-weekly docetaxel). The data were analysed using both the Wilcoxon signed rank test (with Holm-Bonferroni adjustment) and Mann-Whitney U models. RESULTS: No major differences were found in total QoL. Total QoL was higher at month 8 in Arm B (p = .020), but this was reversed in the following month (p = .043), and no statistically significant differences were found during other months. Compared to Arm A, participants in Arm B had longer-lasting deterioration in FAPSI-8 scores and emotional well-being subdomain at the beginning of treatment (p < .05). Various one-month differences were found in FACT-P subdomains (except for functional well-being), and these favoured participants in Arm A, except for the prostate-cancer subdomain. There were no differences in pain. CONCLUSION: Based on our results, 2-weekly docetaxel was not inferior to 3-weekly docetaxel in terms of total health-related QoL and seemed to be superior at least in terms of the FAPSI-8 and emotional well-being subdomain in the first three to four months of treatment. More research on the topic is suggested to confirm the results.

Association of early discharge with increased likelihood of hospital readmission in first four weeks for vaginally delivered neonates.

AIM: The main aim was to determine whether hospital readmission rates by 28 days of age are elevated with early discharge (ED) in Finland. We sought to identify the causes and predictors of ED, readmission rates, admissions to the intensive care unit (ICU) and death. METHODS: The data of 333,321 infants were retrieved from nationwide registers. Vaginally delivered single infants at gestational ages (GAs) of ≥37+0 , born in 2008-2015 and treated in any maternity ward in Finland, were included. ED was defined as discharge on the day of birth or after one night stay on the maternity ward. RESULTS: During the study period, the ED and hospital readmission rates increased. Low-risk infants and those born in high population-density areas were more likely to be discharged early. ED predicted hospital readmission but not ICU admission or death. The most common reason for readmission was jaundice, followed by infection. ED seemed not to predict severe cardiologic problems. Rather than ED, being born at 38+0 -38+6  weeks' GA significantly predicted ICU admission or death. CONCLUSION: Early discharge seems to be associated with increased hospital readmission. Birth at 38+0 -38+6  weeks' GA was a significant predictor of ICU admission or death, as opposed to early discharged infants.

Factors associated with and 1-year outcomes of fear of falling in a geriatric post-hip fracture assessment.

BACKGROUND: Hip fracture causes not only physical injury but also psychological trauma. Fear of falling (FoF) is related to poor recovery, loss of mobility and mortality. There is limited data on the clinical factors affecting post-hip fracture FoF and its consequences. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the factors associated with and 1-year outcomes of post-hip fracture FoF. METHODS: An observational prospective cohort study. Data were collected on hospital admission, at a geriatric outpatient assessment 4-6 months post-hip fracture and by telephone interviews 1 year after the index fracture. FoF was assessed with a dichotomous single-item question. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine the age, gender and multivariable-adjusted association between baseline and the geriatric assessment domains with FoF. Follow-up outcomes included changes in mobility, living arrangements and mortality. RESULTS: Of the 916 patients included, 425 (49%) had FoF at the time of their geriatric assessment. These patients were predominantly female and were living alone in their own homes with supportive home care. They scored lower on tests of physical performance. Less FoF was documented in patients with diagnosed cognitive disorders before the index fracture and in those with Clinical Dementia Rating ≥ 1. After adjusting for age and gender, no association was observed between FoF and any of the 1-year follow-up outcomes. CONCLUSION: Post-hip fracture FoF is common and associated with female gender, polypharmacy, poor daily functioning, poor physical performance and depressive mood. Patients with cognitive disorders have less FoF than those without. FoF appears to have no impact on the follow-up outcomes.

Factors associated with urinary and double incontinence in a geriatric post-hip fracture assessment in older women.

BACKGROUND: Incontinence and hip fractures are common in older people, especially women, and associated with multiple adverse effects. Incontinence is a risk factor for falls. AIMS: We aimed to investigate the prevalence of urinary (UI) and double incontinence (DI, concurrent UI and faecal incontinence), and to identify factors associated with UI and DI 6 months post-fracture. METHODS: A prospective real-life cohort study was conducted consisting of 910 women aged ≥ 65 who were treated for their first hip fracture in Seinäjoki Central Hospital, Finland, between May 2008 and April 2018. Continence status was elicited at baseline and 6 months postoperatively at our geriatric outpatient clinic where all participants underwent a multidisciplinary comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) consisting of an evaluation of cognition, nutrition, mood, mobility, and functional ability. RESULTS: At baseline, 47% of the patients were continent, 45% had UI and 8% had DI, and at follow up, 38%, 52%, and 11%, respectively. The mean age of the patients was 82.7 ± 6.8. Both UI and DI were associated with functional disability and other factors related to frailty. The associations were particularly prominent for patients with DI who also had the worst performance in the domains of CGA. We identified several modifiable risk factors: depressive mood (odds ratio [OR] 1.81; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.16-2.84) and constipation (OR 1.48, 95% CI 1.02-2.13) associated with UI and, late removal of urinary catheter (OR 2.33, 95% CI 1.31-4.14), impaired mobility (OR 2.08, 95% CI 1.05-4.15), and poor nutrition (OR 2.31, 95% CI 1.11-4.79) associated with DI. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates a high prevalence of UI and DI in older women with hip fracture and modifiable risk factors, which should be targeted in orthogeriatric management and secondary falls prevention. Patients with DI were found to be an especially vulnerable group.

Prevalence and prognostic significance of depressive symptoms in a geriatric post-hip fracture assessment.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the prevalence and prognostic significance of post-hip fracture depressive symptoms. METHODS: A naturalistic clinical cohort study. Data were collected on admission to hospital, geriatric assessment 4-6 months post-fracture and by telephone interview one-year post fracture. Depressive symptoms were assessed at the geriatric assessment using the 15-item Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15). Logistic regression analyses with multivariable models were conducted to examine the association of depressive symptoms with changes in mobility and living arrangements and Cox proportional hazards models for mortality between the geriatric assessment and one-year follow-up. RESULTS: Of the 1070 patients, 22% (n = 238) had mild and 6% (n = 67) moderate to severe depressive symptoms. Patients with depressive symptoms had poorer nutritional status at baseline, lower scores on the cognitive and physical performance tests and poorer functional abilities in the geriatric assessment than those without. No association was observed between depressive symptoms and any of the outcomes at one-year follow-up. Poor nutritional status and physical functioning remained significant prognostic indicators. CONCLUSION: Post-hip fracture depressive symptoms are common and deserve attention during post-hip fracture recovery and rehabilitation. Nonetheless, depressive symptoms have no impact on the change in mobility or living arrangements or mortality. These latter outcomes are mainly explained by poor nutritional status and functioning.

Comparison of Different Techniques in Latissimus Dorsi Breast Reconstruction: Plain, Immediately Lipofilled, and Implant Enhanced.

BACKGROUND: The latissimus dorsi (LD) flap is still a popular choice for breast reconstruction. Plain LD provides a good option for women with small breasts, but with bigger breasts, the problem is insufficient volume. Traditionally, implants have been inserted to improve the volume, but because of problems associated with them, the use of fat grafting has gained popularity. Increased numbers of reports considering also immediate lipofilling have been published. This study aimed to evaluate and compare different techniques in LD reconstruction in association with complications, number of further operations, and duration of reconstructive process. METHODS: A retrospective review of patients who had undergone LD reconstruction between 2008 and 2019 was performed. Demographic and operative features, complications, and the duration of reconstruction process were analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 291 LD flaps were performed in 283 women, including 161 (55%) implant enhanced, 73 (25%) immediate lipofilled, and 57 (20%) plain flaps. Of these, 84% were delayed reconstructions. The median volume of immediately injected fat was 155 mL (range, 50-296 mL) and inserted implant 185 mL (range, 80-420 mL). Of plain LDs, 75% did not need further operations compared with 63% of implant and 49% of lipofilling groups (P < 0.001). The median duration of reconstructive process was 10 months (range, 4-86 months) in plain, 13 months (range, 5-58 months) in implant, and 18 months (range, 5-80 months) in lipofilling group (P < 0.002). No significant differences were observed in overall complication rates between groups (P = 0.228). Most of the complications were minor, seroma being the most common. Of major complications, plain flaps were most commonly associated with donor site problems, lipofilling group with partial flap necrosis, and implant enhanced with deep infections in the breast. Shoulder problem was observed in 21 patients (7%) with no significant difference between groups (P = 0.395). CONCLUSIONS: Latissimus dorsi flap is a versatile and safe breast reconstruction method, because it is associated most commonly only with minor complications. Careful patient selection is important when choosing between different techniques. This can have an impact on the number of further operations needed and the duration of reconstruction process. Immediate lipofilling is a safe technique to avoid the use of implant and allow fully autologous reconstruction.

Dietary fibre intake and lifestyle characteristics in relation to nausea or vomiting during pregnancy-a questionnaire-based cohort study.

Nausea or vomiting in pregnancy (NVP) are among the commonest symptoms experienced in early pregnancy. We wanted to evaluate the association of dietary fibre intake, lifestyle characteristics and bowel function with NVP. One hundred and eighty-eight participants completed a self-administered questionnaire concerning bowel function, dietary fibre intake and lifestyle characteristics. Women suffering from NVP (n = 91) consumed significantly more fibre derived from cereal products (p=.026) and total fibre (p=.043) during pre-pregnancy period was compared to women without NVP (n = 97). In both groups, intake of total fibre and fibre derived from fruit and vegetables increased significantly during the first trimester. Dietary fibre intake did not protect from NVP. However, women suffering from NVP were able to maintain their fibre intake. Dietary fibre is tolerated well during NVP, and this finding can be used when giving diet counselling to women suffering from NVP.Impact statementWhat is already known on this subject? Nausea or vomiting in pregnancy (NVP) are among the commonest symptoms experienced in early pregnancy. The pathophysiology of NVP remains unknown, but it has been suggested to be multifactorial. Diet during pregnancy may have an impact on NVP. It is generally advised to avoid meat, poultry, fish, eggs and spicy and fatty foods during periods of NVP, but there is limited data on the effects of diet of NVP.What do the results of this study add? Women suffering from NVP have been shown to eat less meat (and thus protein) compared to women without NVP. Dietary fibre reduces constipation and heartburn and it also keeps blood glucose levels stable. Because of various beneficial effects of fibre on the digestive system, we hypothesised that a high fibre intake may alleviate the symptoms of NVP.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? The aim of the present study was to investigate whether the amount or source of dietary fibre are associated with NVP. We wanted to investigate intake of fibre derived from cereal products (mostly representing insoluble fibre) and fibre derived from fruit and vegetables (containing mostly soluble fibre) separately in relationship to NVP, as the mechanisms of action of these fibre groups are different. There are no observational studies including also pre-pregnancy consumption of fibre when focussing on the association between fibre and NVP. The results of this study can be used when giving diet counselling to women suffering from NVP.

In-Hospital Delirium as a Prognostic Factor for New Cognitive Disorder in a 1-Year Post-Hip Fracture Follow-Up.

BACKGROUND: Older hip fracture patients are at high risk of delirium during acute hospital care. Pre-fracture dementia is known to increase the risk of in-hospital delirium. Data on the development of new cognitive disorders in patients with delirium are scarce. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to evaluate the prognostic significance of in-hospital delirium on the development of new cognitive disorders in a 1-year follow-up in older hip fracture patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Data consisted of 476 hip fracture patients aged 65 years or more with no known cognitive disorder on admission. Delirium was assessed using the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM). Cognitive disorders were diagnosed following the national guidelines. Information on the new diagnoses of cognitive disorders (NDCD) at 1-year follow-up was elicited in a telephone interview and confirmed from the electronic patient files. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine the association of delirium with NDCDs. RESULTS: Of the 476 patients, 87 (18%) had delirium during hospital stay. Patients with delirium were older, they had poorer nutritional status, lower mobility level, and more supported living arrangements than did patients without delirium. At the 1-year time point, 205 (43%) had NDCDs or were strongly suspected of this. CAM result was statistically significantly associated with development of NDCD in multivariable-adjusted analysis (odds ratio [OR] 2.29; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.39-3.79). Also, poor nutritional status continued to be associated with NDCDs (multivariable-adjusted OR 1.58; 95% CI: 1.03-2.43). CONCLUSION: Delirium during hospitalization and poor nutritional status on admission are independent prognostic factors for development of subsequent cognitive disorders in older hip fracture patients.

Primary HPV screening for cervical cancer: Results after two screening rounds in a regional screening program in Finland.

INTRODUCTION: Since 2012, cervical cancer screening has been conducted with a primary high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) test and conventional cytology triage in the city of Tampere, Finland. The women who were screened with the hrHPV test in 2012 were invited to participate in the second screening round in 2017. The aim of the present report was to compare the number of colposcopy referrals and the number of histological high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL)+ (cervical intraepithelial neoplasia [CIN2+]) lesions between the first and second screening rounds of women of a specific age group who were screened twice with the hrHPV test. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The primary hrHPV test used was the RealTime hrHPV PCR assay by Abbott. Women with a positive hrHPV test and cytology triage equal to or worse than low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion or atypical glandular cells, favor neoplasia, were directly referred to colposcopy, whereas hrHPV-positive women with a negative or equivocal cytology triage were re-screened after approximately 12-16 months. hrHPV-negative women were scheduled for re-screening after 5 years. The present report focuses on the cohort of women who were screened twice with the hrHPV test, who were 35-55 years old in 2012, and 40-60 years old in 2017. RESULTS: In all, 8076 women were invited for HPV screening in 2012 and 8331 women were invited for the second round 5 years later, with attendance rates of 70% and 71%, respectively. Of the women who were screened in 2012, 4571 (69%) belonged to the 35- to 55-year age cohort. In 2017, 4807 (73%) of the women aged 40-60 years participated in the screening. In this cohort, 185 (4.0%) colposcopies were performed in the first screening round, compared with 139 (2.9%) in the second round, and the colposcopy rate was 29% smaller in the second round (P = .002). The number of histological HSIL+ cases was 38 (0.8%) during the first screening round and 29 (0.6%) during the second round (P = .220). CONCLUSIONS: In the setting of routine organized cervical cancer screening, the initially high colposcopy rate associated with primary HPV screening seems to level off at the second screening round in women who were screened twice with an hrHPV test.

Finnish diabetes-related quality of life questionnaire for children and adolescents: Reliability and validity.

AIM: To study the psychometric properties, reliability and validity of the FinDiab quality-of-life questionnaire (FDQL), a strength-oriented quality-of-life (QOL) questionnaire for children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D). METHODS: Participants were 215 youths with T1D (aged 10-17 years). They completed FDQL and comparison questionnaires (KINDL-R and SDQ). Demographic and disease measures were collected from the participants' medical records. The questionnaire's psychometric properties were investigated. Construct validity was studied through principal component analysis using Promax rotation, reliability with alphas, and criterion and convergent validity with correlations between sum scale, subscales, demographic and disease factors, and comparison measures. RESULTS: FDQL demonstrated an adequate range of measurement and feasibility. The four-factor solution was found to be optimal, resulting in the subscales of flexibility with diabetes, well-being, social relations and health behaviour. The sum scale correlated significantly with glycaemic control and the psychosocial and QOL comparison measures. Construct, criterion and convergent validity of the subscales was also good. Children under 14 years of age reported better QOL than older adolescents. CONCLUSION: FDQL is a practical QOL assessment method focusing on strengths. The questionnaire has good validity and reliability and is easy to use as a clinical tool.

Hospital admissions for lower respiratory tract infections after early-, late-, and post-term birth.

BACKGROUND: Recent data suggest that early-term births are associated with later respiratory morbidity (LRTI), and post-term births may decrease this risk. OBJECTIVES: The objective was to determine the impact of early-term, late-term, and post-term birth on hospital admission for LRTI up to the age of seven years. Additionally, we explored maternal and perinatal factors associated with the risk of admission for LRTIs. METHODS: The association of early-term (37+0 -38+6  weeks), late-term (41+0 -41+6  weeks), and post-term (≥42 weeks) birth with hospital admissions for lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI) in comparison with infants born full-term (39+0 -40+6  weeks) was assessed and early predictors of LRTI were established. The register study included 948 695 infants born in Finland in 1991-2008. Data were analysed in four-term subgroups. Hospital admissions for bronchiolitis/bronchitis and pneumonia were collected up to 7 years of age. Adjusted Cox proportional hazards models were used to assess risk factors of LRTI admissions. RESULTS: The rates of hospital admission in the early-, full-, late-, and post-term groups were 6.7%, 5.5%, 5.1%, and 4.8% for bronchiolitis/bronchitis, and 2.8%, 2.4%, 2.3%, and 2.3% for pneumonia. Early-term birth was associated with an increased risk of admission for bronchiolitis/bronchitis (hazard ratio HR 1.21, 95% confidence interval CI 1.18, 1.23) and pneumonia (HR 1.16, 95% CI 1.12, 1.20), while late-term (HR 0.93, 95% CI 0.91, 0.95) and post-term births (HR 0.89, 95% CI 0.85, 0.93) were associated with a decreased risk of bronchiolitis/bronchitis admission compared with the full-term group. Maternal age ≤ 20 years, smoking during pregnancy, male sex, caesarean delivery, small for gestational age, 1-minute Apgar score < 4, ventilator support, and neonatal antibiotic therapy were associated with an increased risk of LRTI admission, while being firstborn, born in a level-II hospital and in the Northern region was associated with decreased risk. CONCLUSION: Early-term birth was associated with a higher risk of all LRTI admissions while late-term and post-term births were associated with lower risk of bronchiolitis/bronchitis admission. Modifiable risk factors of LRTIs were smoking during pregnancy, birth by elective caesarean delivery, neonatal ventilator support, and antibiotic therapy.

Recurrent and Metastatic Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinomas in a Cohort of 774 Patients in Finland.

Recognising patients with high risk cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas is essential in planning effective monitoring. The aim of this study was to determine the rate of local recurrences and metastases of cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas in a previously defined patient cohort in Finland. Pathology database search was performed to identify cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma patients and their medical records were reviewed. The cohort consisted of 774 patients with 1,131 cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma tumours. Overall, 4.2% (48/1,131) of the tumours were metastatic and 2.2% (25/1,131) had a local recurrence. Three of the metastatic tumours and 8 of the recurrent tumours had an invasion depth of ≤ 2 mm. The majority of metastases (28/48; 58%) were found within 3 months of the diagnosis of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. In conclusion, our study demonstrated recurrences and metastases even in the case of thin cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas and in high-risk cases close monitoring should be organised during the first years after diagnosis.