bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterisation of mesenchymal stromal cells in clinical trial reports: analysis of published descriptors
Authors: Wilson Alison J. , Rand Emma , Webster Andrew J. , Genever Paul G.
Published: June 2021

Background

Mesenchymal stem or stromal cells are the most widely used cell therapy to date. They are heterogeneous, with variations in growth potential, differentiation capacity and protein expression profile depending on tissue source and production process. Nomenclature and defining characteristics have been debated for almost 20 years, yet the generic term ‘MSC’ is used to cover a wide range of cellular phenotypes. Against a documented lack of definition of cellular populations used in clinical trials, our study evaluated the extent of characterisation of the cellular population or study drug.

Methods

A literature search of clinical trials involving mesenchymal stem/stromal cells was refined to 84 papers upon application of pre-defined inclusion/exclusion criteria. Data were extracted covering background trial information including location, phase, indication, tissue source and details of clinical cell population characterisation (expression of surface markers, viability, differentiation assays and potency/functionality assays). Descriptive statistics were applied, and tests of association between groups were explored using Fisher’s exact test for count data with simulated p value.

Results

Twenty-eight studies (33.3%) include no characterisation data. Forty-five (53.6%) reported average values per marker for all cell lots used in the trial, and 11 (13.1%) studies included individual values per cell lot. Viability was reported in 57% of studies. Differentiation was discussed: osteogenesis (29% of papers), adipogenesis (27%), and chondrogenesis (20%) and other functional assays arose in 7 papers (8%). The extent of characterisation was not related to the clinical phase of development. Assessment of functionality was very limited and did not always relate to the likely mechanism of action.

Conclusions

The extent of characterisation was poor and variable. Our findings concur with those in other fields including bone marrow aspirate and platelet-rich plasma therapy. We discuss the potential implications of these findings for the use of mesenchymal stem or stromal cells in regenerative medicine, and the importance of characterisation for transparency and comparability of literature.

Graphical abstract
Protein arginine methyltransferase 1 regulates cell proliferation and differentiation in adult mouse adult intestine
Authors: Xue Lu , Bao Lingyu , Roediger Julia , Su Yijun , Shi Bingyin , Shi Yun-Bo
Published: June 2021

Background

Adult stem cells play an essential role in adult organ physiology and tissue repair and regeneration. While much has been learnt about the property and function of various adult stem cells, the mechanisms of their development remain poorly understood in mammals. Earlier studies suggest that the formation of adult mouse intestinal stem cells takes place during the first few weeks after birth, the postembryonic period when plasma thyroid hormone (T3) levels are high. Furthermore, deficiency in T3 signaling leads to defects in adult mouse intestine, including reduced cell proliferation in the intestinal crypts, where stem cells reside. Our earlier studies have shown that protein arginine methyltransferase 1 (PRMT1), a T3 receptor coactivator, is highly expressed during intestinal maturation in mouse.

Methods

We have analyzed the expression of PRMT1 by immunohistochemistry and studied the effect of tissue-specific knockout of PRMT1 in the intestinal epithelium.

Results

We show that PRMT1 is expressed highly in the proliferating transit amplifying cells and crypt base stem cells. By using a conditional knockout mouse line, we have demonstrated that the expression of PRMT1 in the intestinal epithelium is critical for the development of the adult mouse intestine. Specific removal of PRMT1 in the intestinal epithelium results in, surprisingly, more elongated adult intestinal crypts with increased cell proliferation. In addition, epithelial cell migration along the crypt-villus axis and cell death on the villus are also increased. Furthermore, there are increased Goblet cells and reduced Paneth cells in the crypt while the number of crypt base stem cells remains unchanged.

Conclusions

Our finding that PRMT1 knockout increases cell proliferation is surprising considering the role of PRMT1 in T3-signaling and the importance of T3 for intestinal development, and suggests that PRMT1 likely regulates pathways in addition to T3-signaling to affect intestinal development and/or homeostasis, thus affecting cell proliferating and epithelial turn over in the adult.
Semi-analytical solutions of seismo-electromagnetic signals arising from the motional induction in 3-D multi-layered media: part II—numerical investigations
Authors: Ren Hengxin , Zeng Ling , Sun Yao-Chong , Yamazaki Ken’ichi , Huang Qinghua , Chen Xiaofei
Published: June 2021

In this paper, numerical computations are carried out to investigate the seismo-electromagnetic signals arising from the motional induction effect due to an earthquake source embedded in 3-D multi-layered media. First, our numerical computation approach that combines discrete wavenumber method, peak-trough averaging method, and point source stacking method is introduced in detail. The peak-trough averaging method helps overcome the slow convergence problem, which occurs when the source–receiver depth difference is small, allowing us to consider any focus depth. The point source stacking method is used to deal with a finite fault. Later, an excellent agreement between our method and the curvilinear grid finite-difference method for the seismic wave solutions is found, which to a certain degree verifies the validity of our method. Thereafter, numerical computation results of an air–solid two-layer model show that both a receiver below and another one above the ground surface will record electromagnetic (EM) signals showing up at the same time as seismic waves, that is, the so-called coseismic EM signals. These results suggest that the in-air coseismic magnetic signals reported previously, which were recorded by induction coils hung on trees, can be explained by the motional induction effect or maybe other seismo-electromagnetic coupling mechanisms. Further investigations of wave-field snapshots and theoretical analysis suggest that the seismic-to-EM conversion caused by the motional induction effect will give birth to evanescent EM waves when seismic waves arrive at an interface with an incident angle greater than the critical angleθc = arcsin(Vsei/Vem), whereVseiandVemare seismic wave velocity and EM wave velocity, respectively. The computed EM signals in air are found to have an excellent agreement with the theoretically predicted amplitude decay characteristic for a single frequency and single wavenumber. The evanescent EM waves originating from a subsurface interface of conductivity contrast will contribute to the coseismic EM signals. Thus, the conductivity at depth will affect the coseismic EM signals recorded nearby the ground surface. Finally, a fault rupture spreading to the ground surface, an unexamined case in previous numerical computations of seismo-electromagnetic signals, is considered. The computation results once again indicate the motional induction effect can contribute to the coseismic EM signals.
Engaging multi-stakeholder perspectives to identify dementia care research priorities
Authors: Patel Neela K. , Masoud Sara S. , Meyer Kylie , Davila Angelica V. , Rivette Sheran , Glassner Ashlie A. , James Deborah , White Carole L.
Published: June 2021

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to partner with stakeholders to identify gaps in care for persons living with dementia and their family caregivers and from this list, identify priorities for dementia care research.

Methods

Using a community-engaged research approach, a Stakeholder Advisory Council (SAC) consisting of diverse membership including persons living with dementia and family caregivers was convened. Through our work with the SAC, along with input from the wider network through a symposium, webinars, and an online learning community, gaps in dementia care and a list of topics for dementia care research was generated. This list was reduced to 46 topics for dementia care research and sent to stakeholders (persons living with dementia, family caregivers, and health/social care professionals in dementia care) to be prioritized by rating each of the 46 topics as “Not so important,” “Important,” or “Very important.” Priorities for dementia care were summarized by frequencies and proportions.

Results

A total of 186 participants completed the survey from August through October 2020, including 23 (12.4%) persons living with dementia, 101 (54.3%) family caregivers, and 62 (33.3%) health/social care professionals. Consistent across stakeholder groups was the focus on research on how best to support families following a diagnosis of dementia. Among persons living with dementia, research focused on support for continuing to live in their own homes was ranked as the highest priority, rated by 91.3% as “Very Important”. High priority research areas for family caregivers included interventions to slow cognitive decline (76.3%) as well as non-pharmacological approaches to manage behavioral symptoms (74.7%). The highest priority research topics for health/social care professionals were focused on the diagnosis including benefits of an early diagnosis (71.4%), how best to deliver the diagnosis (70.9%), and supports needed following a diagnosis (78.6%).

Conclusions

This project draws on the strengths of its multi-stakeholder perspective to support patient-centered outcomes research. Findings are intended to inform those who conduct research and those who fund research about which research topics stakeholders believe are most important and thus have greatest potential to improve the quality of life among people living with dementia and their families.
Extradural anterior clinoidectomy in surgical management of clinoidal meningiomas
Authors: El-Bahy K. , Ibrahim Ashraf M. , Abdelmohsen Ibrahim , Sabry Hatem A.
Published: June 2021

Background

Despite the recent advances in skull base surgery, microsurgical techniques, and neuroimaging, yet surgical resection of clinoidal meningiomas is still a major challenge. In this study, we present our institution experience in the surgical treatment of anterior clinoidal meningiomas highlighting the role of extradural anterior clinoidectomy in improving the visual outcome and the extent of tumor resection. This is a prospective observational study conducted on 33 consecutive patients with clinoidal meningiomas. The surgical approach utilized consisted of extradural anterior clinoidectomy, optic canal deroofing with falciform ligament opening in all patients. The primary outcome assessment was visual improvement and secondary outcomes were extent of tumor resection, recurrence, and postoperative complications.

Results

The study included 5 males and 28 females with mean age 49.48 ± 11.41 years. Preoperative visual deficit was present in 30 (90.9%) patients. Optic canal involvement was present in 24 (72.7%) patients, ICA encasement was in 16 (48.5%), and cavernous sinus invasion in 8 (24.2%). Vision improved in 21 patients (70%), while 6 patients (20%) had stationary course and 1 patient (3%) suffered postoperative new visual deterioration. Gross total resection was achieved in 24 patients (72.7%). The main factors precluding total removal were cavernous sinus involvement and ICA encasement. Mortality rate was 6.1%; mean follow-up period was 27 ± 13 months.

Conclusions

In this series, the use of extradural anterior clinoidectomy provided a favorable visual outcome and improved the extent of resection in clinoidal meningioma patients.
A comparative study on intraocular pressure under various anesthetics in cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis)
Authors: Lee Hong-Soo , Kim Da-Hee , Kim Sung-Hwan , Kang Min-Sung , Suh Han Na
Published: June 2021

Background

Nonhuman primates (NHPs) are superior model for ocular research due to its morphological and physiological similarities with humans. Thus, the effect of four different anesthetic combinations [ketamine (10 mg/kg), ketamine + xylazine (7 + 0.6 mg/kg), zoletil (4 mg/kg), and zoletil + xylazine (4 + 0.2 mg/kg)] on intraocular pressure (IOP) was determined in cynomolgus monkeys.

Results

The administration of ketamine + xylazine or zoletil + xylazine resulted in lower IOP compared to ketamine or zoletil alone. Moreover, the IOP in male monkeys was higher than in females. The difference between the right and left eye was not found.

Conclusions

Anesthetics affected the IOP, and gender differences should be considered when measuring the IOP of nonhuman primates (NHPs).
Humanized CD19-Targeted Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T Cells in CAR-Naive and CAR-Exposed Children and Young Adults With Relapsed or Refractory Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Myers Regina M. , Li Yimei , Barz Leahy Allison , Barrett David M. , Teachey David T. , Callahan Colleen , Fasano Christina C. , Rheingold Susan R. , DiNofia Amanda , Wray Lisa , Aplenc Richard , Baniewicz Diane , Liu Hongyan , Shaw Pamela A. , Pequignot Edward , Getz Kelly D. , Brogdon Jennifer L. , Fesnak Andrew D. , Siegel Donald L. , Davis Megan M. , Bartoszek Chelsie , Lacey Simon F. , Hexner Elizabeth O. , Chew Anne , Wertheim Gerald B. , Levine Bruce L. , June Carl H. , Grupp Stephan A. , Maude Shannon L.
Published: June 2021

PURPOSE

CD19-targeted chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)–modified T cells demonstrate unprecedented responses in B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL); however, relapse remains a substantial challenge. Short CAR T-cell persistence contributes to this risk; therefore, strategies to improve persistence are needed.

METHODS

We conducted a pilot clinical trial of a humanized CD19 CAR T-cell product (huCART19) in children and young adults with relapsed or refractory B-ALL (n = 72) or B-lymphoblastic lymphoma (n = 2), treated in two cohorts: with (retreatment, n = 33) or without (CAR-naive, n = 41) prior CAR exposure. Patients were monitored for toxicity, response, and persistence of huCART19.

RESULTS

Seventy-four patients 1-29 years of age received huCART19. Cytokine release syndrome developed in 62 (84%) patients and was grade 4 in five (6.8%). Neurologic toxicities were reported in 29 (39%), three (4%) grade 3 or 4, and fully resolved in all cases. The overall response rate at 1 month after infusion was 98% (100% in B-ALL) in the CAR-naive cohort and 64% in the retreatment cohort. At 6 months, the probability of losing huCART19 persistence was 27% (95% CI, 14 to 41) for CAR-naive and 48% (95% CI, 30 to 64) for retreatment patients, whereas the incidence of B-cell recovery was 15% (95% CI, 6 to 28) and 58% (95% CI, 33 to 77), respectively. Relapse-free survival at 12 and 24 months, respectively, was 84% (95% CI, 72 to 97) and 74% (95% CI, 60 to 90) in CAR-naive and 74% (95% CI, 56 to 97) and 58% (95% CI, 37 to 90) in retreatment cohorts.

CONCLUSION

HuCART19 achieved durable remissions with long-term persistence in children and young adults with relapsed or refractory B-ALL, including after failure of prior CAR T-cell therapy.
Gonadal Function Recovery in Patients With Advanced Hodgkin Lymphoma Treated With a PET-Adapted Regimen: Prospective Analysis of a Randomized Phase III Trial (AHL2011)
Authors: Demeestere Isabelle , Racape Judith , Dechene Julie , Dupuis Jehan , Morschhauser Franck , De Wilde Virginie , Lazarovici Julien , Ghesquieres Hervé , Touati Mohamed , Sibon David , Alexis Magda , Gac Anne-Claire , Moatti Hannah , Virelizier Emmanuelle , Maisonneuve Hervé , Pranger Delphine , Houot Roch , Fornecker Luc-Matthieu , Tempescul Adrian , André Marc , Casasnovas René-Olivier
Published: June 2021

PURPOSE

The prospective, randomized AHL2011 trial demonstrated that the use of the doxorubicin, bleomycin, vinblastine, and dacarbazine regimen (ABVD) after two cycles of bleomycin, etoposide, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, procarbazine, and prednisone (BEACOPPescalated) in early responders on the basis of a positron emission tomography (PET)–driven strategy was safe and minimized toxicity compared with standard 6 BEACOPPescalated cycles. This substudy investigated the benefit of this strategy in gonadal function and fertility in patients under 45 years old.

METHODS

Ovarian function was assessed by serum measurement of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol, and anti-müllerian hormone in women, and semen analysis, FSH, and testosterone levels were used to evaluate testicular function in men at baseline, end of treatment, and during 5 years of follow-up.

RESULTS

A total of 145 women and 424 men, enrolled between May 19, 2011, and April 29, 2014, were included. The risk of premature ovarian insufficiency (FSH > 24 IU/L) and of having a low ovarian reserve (anti-müllerian hormone < 0.5 ng/mL) was reduced after treatment in the PET-driven group (odds ratio [OR], 0.20; 95% CI, 0.08 to 0.50; P = .001 and OR, 0.15; 95% CI, 0.04 to 0.56, P = .005, respectively). Both parameters were correlated with age and dose of alkylating agents. However, no significant differences were observed in terms of pregnancy rates. Men in the PET-driven group had a higher recovery rate of sperm parameters after treatment compared with the standard BEACOPPescalated group, as well as a lower risk of severe testicular damage (OR, 0.26; 95% CI, 0.13 to 0.5; P < .0001) and a higher likelihood of achieving pregnancy (OR, 3.7; 95% CI, 1.4 to 9.3; P = .004).

CONCLUSION

Although both treatments affected ovarian reserve and spermatogenesis, the PET-driven strategy decreased the risk of gonadal dysfunction and infertility in advanced Hodgkin lymphoma.
Academic Performance in Adolescents Born to Mothers With Gestational Diabetes—A National Danish Cohort Study
Authors: Heldarskard Gerda Ferja , Spangmose Anne Lærke , Henningsen Anna-Karina Aaris , Wiingreen Rikke , Mortensen Erik Lykke , Gundersen Tina Wullum , Jensen Rikke Beck , Knorr Sine , Damm Peter , Forman Julie Lyng , Pinborg Anja , Clausen Tine Dalsgaard
Published: June 2021

Context

The prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is increasing, and intrauterine hyperglycemia is suspected to affect offspring cognitive function.

Objective

We assessed academic performance by grade point average (GPA) in children aged 15 to 16 years at compulsory school graduation, comparing offspring exposed to GDM (O-GDM) with offspring from the background population (O-BP).

Methods

This register-based, cohort study comprised all singletons born in Denmark between 1994 and 2001 (O-GDM: n = 4286; O-BP: n = 501 045). Standardized and internationally comparable GPAs were compared in univariate and multivariable linear models. Main outcome measures included the adjusted mean difference in GPA. We also analyzed the probability of having a high GPA, a GPA below passing, and no GPA registered.

Results

O-GDM had a GPA of 6.29 (SD 2.52), whereas O-BP had a GPA of 6.78 (SD 2.50). The adjusted mean difference was –0.36 (95% CI, –0.44 to –0.29), corresponding to a Cohen’s D of 0.14. O-GDM had a lower probability of obtaining a high GPA (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.68; 95% CI, 0.59 to 0.79), while their risk of obtaining a GPA below passing was similar to O-BP (aOR 1.20; 95% CI, 0.96 to 1.50). O-GDM had a higher risk of not having a GPA registered (aOR 1.38; 95% CI, 1.24 to 1.53).

Conclusion

Academic performance in O-GDM was marginally lower than in O-BP. However, this difference is unlikely to be of clinical importance.
Breast Cancer Risk Factors and Circulating Anti-Müllerian Hormone Concentration in Healthy Premenopausal Women
Authors: Clendenen Tess V , Ge Wenzhen , Koenig Karen L , Afanasyeva Yelena , Agnoli Claudia , Bertone-Johnson Elizabeth , Brinton Louise A , Darvishian Farbod , Dorgan Joanne F , Eliassen A Heather , Falk Roni T , Hallmans Göran , Hankinson Susan E , Hoffman-Bolton Judith , Key Timothy J , Krogh Vittorio , Nichols Hazel B , Sandler Dale P , Schoemaker Minouk J , Sluss Patrick M , Sund Malin , Swerdlow Anthony J , Visvanathan Kala , Liu Mengling , Zeleniuch-Jacquotte Anne
Published: June 2021

Context

We previously reported that anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), a marker of ovarian reserve, is positively associated with breast cancer risk, consistent with other studies.

Objective

This study assessed whether risk factors for breast cancer are correlates of AMH concentration.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 3831 healthy premenopausal women (aged 21-57, 87% aged 35-49) from 10 cohort studies among the general population.

Results

Adjusting for age and cohort, AMH positively associated with age at menarche (P < 0.0001) and parity (P = 0.0008) and inversely associated with hysterectomy/partial oophorectomy (P = 0.0008). Compared with women of normal weight, AMH was lower (relative geometric mean difference 27%, P < 0.0001) among women who were obese. Current oral contraceptive (OC) use and current/former smoking were associated with lower AMH concentration than never use (40% and 12% lower, respectively, P < 0.0001). We observed higher AMH concentrations among women who had had a benign breast biopsy (15% higher, P = 0.03), a surrogate for benign breast disease, an association that has not been reported. In analyses stratified by age (<40 vs ≥40), associations of AMH with body mass index and OCs were similar in younger and older women, while associations with the other factors (menarche, parity, hysterectomy/partial oophorectomy, smoking, and benign breast biopsy) were limited to women ≥40 (P-interaction < 0.05).

Conclusion

This is the largest study of AMH and breast cancer risk factors among women from the general population (not presenting with infertility), and it suggests that most associations are limited to women over 40, who are approaching menopause and whose AMH concentration is declining.
CBG Montevideo: A Clinically Novel SERPINA6 Mutation Leading to Haploinsufficiency of Corticosteroid-binding Globulin
Authors: Meyer Emily Jane , Spangenberg Lucía , Ramírez Maria José , De Sousa Sunita Maria Christina , Raggio Victor , Torpy David James
Published: June 2021

Corticosteroid-binding globulin (CBG) is the main transport protein for cortisol, binding up to 90% in a 1:1 ratio. CBG provides transport of cortisol within the circulation and targeted cortisol tissue delivery.

Here, we describe the clinically novel “CBG Montevideo” a SERPINA6 pathogenic variant that results in a 50% reduction in plasma CBG levels. This was associated with low serum total cortisol and clinical features of hypoglycemia, exercise intolerance, chronic fatigue, and hypotension in the proband, a 7-year-old boy, and his affected mother.

Previous reports of 9 human CBG genetic variants affecting either CBG concentrations or reduced CBG-cortisol binding properties have outlined symptoms consistent with attenuated features of hypocortisolism, fatigue, and hypotension. Here, however, the presence of hypoglycemia, despite normal circulating free cortisol, suggests a specific role for CBG in effecting glucocorticoid function, perhaps involving cortisol-mediated hepatic glucose homeostasis and cortisol-brain communication.
Provincializing Trans* Modernity
Authors: Garde Jonah I.
Published: June 2021

This article aims to disrupt notions of modernity deeply inscribed in the origin narrative of trans studies by thinking through the relationship between transgender, the transatlantic, and Europe. Drawing on Saidiya Hartman's and Christina Sharpe's Black feminist theorizing of the asterisk and the multiple meanings embedded in trans*, the article takes up the archives of European sexology to explore their entangled histories as well as their limitations. Through a critical reading of Der Steinachfilm that is attentive to its transgressive imaginary as well as its silenced colonial and racial subtext, the author aims to contribute to the necessary task of provincializing some of trans studies' dominant epistemologies.
Επαγγελματικά συνταξιοδοτικά κεφάλαια
Authors: Μαυρόκωστα Ολυμπία
Published: June 2021

Η διδακτορική διατριβή πραγματεύεται το ζήτημα της διαχείρισης των επαγγελματικών συνταξιοδοτικών κεφαλαίων υπό το πρίσμα των Οδηγιών IORP II, Solvency II και MiFID II. Εκκινώντας από την προβληματική της οριοθέτησης του θεσμικού πλαισίου, το οποίο παρουσιάζει σημαντικές ιδιαιτερότητες λόγω του πολυεπίπεδου χαρακτήρα της επαγγελματικής ασφάλισης, και διά μέσου της συγκριτικής επισκόπησης των ρυθμίσεων που περιλαμβάνονται στις τρεις ενωσιακές Οδηγίες, επιχειρείται η απάντηση στο βασικό ερευνητικό ερώτημα που συνίσταται στο κατά πόσον η εφαρμογή διαφορετικών θεσμικών κειμένων συνεπάγεται και ουσιαστική διαφοροποίηση των προβλεπόμενων απαιτήσεων κατά τη διαχείριση των κεφαλαίων που προορίζονται για την καταβολή επαγγελματικών συνταξιοδοτικών παροχών. Προς τον σκοπό ενίσχυσης των συμπερασμάτων που εξάγονται από την συγκριτική επισκόπηση των τριών Οδηγιών παρατίθενται στοιχεία σχετικά με τα αντιστοίχως ισχύοντα για τα δημόσια συνταξιοδοτικά κεφάλαια, αλλά και τις ρυθμίσεις ήπιου διεθνούς δικαίου, ώστε να καταδειχθεί τελικώς εάν η εναλλαγή θεσμικού πλαισίου επηρεάζει το πλέγμα προστασίας των δικαιωμάτων των μελλοντικών συνταξιούχων.
Από την παγκοσμιοποίηση στην κρίση
Authors: Τσάφος Παναγιώτης
Published: June 2021

Η σημαντικότερη ίσως συνέπεια της παγκοσμιοποίησης, σε εθνικό και ευρωενωσιακό επίπεδο, είναι η επικράτηση ισχυρών και ανέλεγκτων υπερεθνικών κοινωνικοπολιτικών κέντρων, τα οποία είτε αποβλέπουν είτε εκ των πραγμάτων οδηγούν στην υπονόμευση των μεταπολεμικών κατακτήσεων του ευρωπαϊκού νομικού πολιτισμού. Αυτή η εξέλιξη συνδέεται άρρηκτα με την αποδυνάμωση του εθνικού κράτους, που συνίσταται τόσο στην απώλεια ελέγχου των εξελίξεων που συντελούνται εντός των ορίων της δικής του ευθύνης όσο και στην ολοένα αυξανόμενη αδυναμία τους να αναλαμβάνουν πρόσφορες και δημοκρατικά νομιμοποιημένες πρωτοβουλίες, με όρους εθνικής κυριαρχίας και πολιτικής αυτονομίας. Παράλληλα, όμως, ούτε η Ευρωπαϊκή Ένωση, όντας μια θεσμικά και οικονομικά ανολοκλήρωτη δομή, με περιορισμένο τον ρόλο του «ευρωπαϊκού Δήμου», κατόρθωσε να προσφέρει βιώσιμες εναλλακτικές διεξόδους για την αντιμετώπιση των προκλήσεων της παγκοσμιοποίησης, καθώς οι αντιδράσεις της ήταν κατά κανόνα καθυστερημένες, ημιτελείς, σπασμωδικές και αντανακλαστικές. Συνολικά λοιπόν ο ευρωπαϊκός συνταγματισμός, τόσο στην εθνική όσο και στην ευρωενωσιακή εκδοχή του, αποδείχθηκε ανέτοιμος να δώσει πειστικές απαντήσεις στα νέα προβλήματα που ανέκυψαν και αυτό αποδείχθηκε, ακόμη πιο ανάγλυφα, όταν τα προβλήματα αυτά έγιναν εκρηκτικά με το ξέσπασμα της οικονομικής κρίσης, η οποία ήταν απόρροια της παγκοσμιοποίησης.Στο συγκεκριμένο πλαίσιο, τα «Μνημόνια» Ελλάδας και Πορτογαλίας αποτελούν σημείο καμπής για τον ευρωπαϊκό συνταγματισμό. Πιο συγκεκριμένα, οι συνταγματικές επιπτώσεις της κρίσης, τόσο στην Ελλάδα όσο και στην Πορτογαλία, αποτελούν μια εξαιρετικά χρήσιμη «μελέτη περίπτωσης» (case study), για δύο λόγους: πρώτον διότι αποτέλεσαν το πεδίο στο οποίο δοκιμάσθηκε –ανεπιτυχώς– η Ευρωπαϊκή Ένωση, ως θεματοφύλακας του ευρωπαϊκού νομικού πολιτισμού, και δεύτερον, διότι εξετάζοντας –μέσω των εργαλείων του συγκριτικού δικαίου αλλά και της συγκριτικής δημόσιας πολιτικής– τα δύο κράτη που αποτέλεσαν τους αδύνατους κρίκους της μπορούμε να κατανοήσουμε συγκλίσεις και αποκλίσεις στην συνταγματική λειτουργία τους, που αποτελούν μια χρήσιμη παρακαταθήκη για όλα τα εθνικά κράτη, ως προς τα πεδία έντασης και διακινδύνευσης κρίσιμων συνταγματικών κατακτήσεών τους.Στο σημείο αυτό, η μελέτη μας ακολουθεί τη μεθοδολογία της «λειτουργικής συγκρισιμότητας» του συγκριτικού δικαίου, σύμφωνα με την οποία οι θεσμοί και οι έννοιες του δικαίου έχουν ως σκοπό να ανταποκρίνονται σε ανάγκες της πραγματικής ζωής και μπορούν να ερευνηθούν ολοκληρωμένα μόνο εφόσον αναδειχθούν και οι «ανάγκες-βιοτικές καταστάσεις», όπως και ο τρόπος ρύθμισής τους από το ισχύον δίκαιο. Στο πλαίσιο αυτό, μελετάται το φαινόμενο της εφαρμογής του «δικαίου της ανάγκης» που επέφερε την «κατάσταση εξαίρεσης», δηλαδή, την υπεροχή του «οικονομικού» έναντι του «πολιτικού» στοιχείου, η οποία ταυτίζεται με την πρωτοκαθεδρία της ζωτικής κρατικής ανάγκης για οικονομική επιβίωση. Αυτή, με τη σειρά της, έχει ως αποτέλεσμα τη λήψη «μέτρων-εκπτώσεων» στην κρατική κυριαρχία, κλονίζοντας καθοριστικά την «πολιτική αυτονομία» του ευρωπαϊκού συνταγματικού κράτους.
Der Gelbschmied und Alchemist (?) vom Ringelhof
Authors: Kamber Pia , Kurzmann Peter , Gerber Yvonne
Published: June 2021

Bei Bauarbeiten in der Basler Altstadtliegenschaft «Ringelhof» wurde 1939 ein Laborinventar aus der zweiten Hälfte des 13. Jahrhunderts entdeckt. Die frühe Datierung, die zeitliche Geschlossenheit des Inventars und eine Vielzahl bisher unbekannter Laborgefässe machen den Fund forschungsgeschichtlich ausserordentlich bedeutsam.

Zur Interpretation und Deutung der Gefässe wurden alchemistische Manuskripte des 13. und 14. Jahrhunderts beigezogen, die ähnliche Gerätschaften abbilden und auch benennen.

Die archäometrische Untersuchung der Gefässe und ihrer Inhalte ergab überraschenderweise, dass im Laboratorium ausschliesslich metallurgische Prozesse durchgeführt wurden. Dieser Befund ist deshalb so überraschend, weil sich unter den Gefässen eindeutige Destilliergefässe befinden. Diese wurden jedoch zweckentfremdet zur Durchführung von Reaktionen in der Schmelze verwendet, genauso wie eine Sublimierapparatur und andere Gefässe (Talglämpchen, Dreibeingefässe, Schüsseln, Schalen, sogar eine Napfkachel).

Das Vorkommen der Destilliergefässe lässt den Schluss zu, dass es in Basel oder der näheren Umgebung in jener Zeit wenigstens ein alchemistisches Laboratorium gegeben hat, in dem auch destilliert wurde.
Vorbericht über die Grabungen 1998 im Bereich der spätlatènezeitlichen Siedlung Basel-Gasfabrik
Authors: Jud Peter , Spichtig Norbert
Published: June 2021

Berichte zu den archäologischen Untersuchungen in der Fundstelle «Basel-Gasfabrik» im Jahr 1998.
Vorbericht über die Grabungen 1999 im Bereich der spätlatènezeitlichen Siedlung Basel-Gasfabrik
Authors: Jud Peter , Spichtig Norbert
Published: June 2021

Berichte zu den archäologischen Untersuchungen in der Fundstelle «Basel-Gasfabrik» im Jahr 1999.
Burkhardsche und Innere Stadtmauer - neu betrachtet
Authors: Matt Christoph Ph. , Rentzel Philippe
Published: June 2021

Der vorliegende Aufsatz beschäftigt sich eingehend und unter verschiedenen Gesichtspunkten mit den beiden älteren Grossbasler Stadtmauern, der Burkhardschen aus dem späten 11. Jahrhundert und der Inneren Stadtmauer aus der 1. Hälfte des 13. Jahrhunderts.

Während von der ersten Stadtmauer Bau-Anlass und ungefähre Entstehungszeit bekannt sind, die Mauer archäologisch jedoch bis 1976 nirgends nachgewiesen werden konnte, fehlen bis heute historische Quellen zum Bau der Inneren Mauer, die sich im Stadtgefüge jedoch stets klar abzeichnete.

Bereits früher ausführlich publizierte Befunde von einzelnen Fundstellen werden zusammenfassend dargestellt, während die Stadtmauerbefunde von bisher nur überblicksartig veröffentlichten Fundstellen ausführlich dokumentiert werden.

Der zweite Teil beinhaltet die Diskussion der Ergebnisse geologischer Studien an grossen Abschnitten der Burkhardschen und der Inneren Stadtmauer.
Tätigkeitsbericht der Archäologischen Bodenforschung Basel-Stadt für das Jahr 2002
Authors: Lassau Guido
Published: June 2021

Der Tätigkeitsbericht des Kantonsarchäologen bietet einen Überblick über die wichtigsten Kennzahlen und die Arbeiten in den verschiedenen Abteilungen der Archäologischen Bodenforschung im Jahr 2002.
Baugeschichtliche Untersuchungen im Jahre 2003
Authors: Brandenberger Rebekka , Jaggi Bernard , Matt Christoph Philipp , Merki Matthias , Reicke Daniel , Ritzmann Hans , Tramèr Stephan
Published: June 2021

Im Jahr 2003 hatte sich die Bauforschung mit insgesamt 41 Fällen zu befassen. Die Vielfalt der Arbeiten drückt sich in diesem Bericht aus, der dem Leser sozusagen ein Kaleidoskop bietet. Der diesjährige Bericht enthält 22 abgeschlossene Untersuchungs- bzw. Bearbeitungsfälle.
Trends and correlates of girl-child marriage in 11 West African countries: evidence from recent Demographic and Health Surveys
Authors: Fatusi Adesegun O. , Adedini Sunday A. , Mobolaji Jacob Wale
Published: June 2021

Background: West Africa historically has a high prevalence of girl-child marriage and requires substantial reduction to meet the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) target of ending child marriage by 2030, but current data on progress is sparce. We aimed to determine the trend in child marriage in West Africa and assess the influence of selected socio-demographic factors.

Methods: We analysed data on women aged 18-24 years from the two most recent Demographic and Health Surveys (conducted between 2006 and 2014) for 11 West African countries to determine the prevalence and trend of girl-child marriage. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to assess the relationship between girl-child marriage and selected socio-demographic factors.

Results: The prevalence of child marriage in West Africa is 41.5%. An overall decrease of 4.6% (annual rate of 0.01%) was recorded over a seven-year inter-survey period. Three countries (Cote d’Ivoire, Nigeria, and Niger) recorded increased prevalence while the rate was unchanged in Burkina Faso, and the other six countries had reduced prevalence between the last two surveys. Sierra Leone recorded the highest decrease in prevalence (22%) and an annual reduction rate of 0.04%; Cote d’Ivore had the highest increase (65.3%). In virtually all countries, rural residence, low education, poor household economic status and non-Christian religious affiliation were significantly associated with higher odds of girl-child marriage.

Conclusions: The prevalence of girl-child marriage remains high in West Africa and the trend shows very slow progress. While substantial inter-country variations exist in overall rate and trend of child marriage, the rate of progress is inadequate across all countries.
A study protocol of qualitative data sharing practices in clinical trials in the UK and Ireland: towards the production of good practice guidance
Authors: Houghton Catherine , McCarthy Megan , Gillies Katie , Rousseau Nikki , Wade Julia , Gamble Carrol , Toomey Elaine , Matvienko-Sikar Karen , Sydes Matthew , Dowling Maura , Bryant Val , Biesty Linda
Published: June 2021

Background: Data sharing enables researchers to conduct novel research with previously collected data sets, thus maximising scientific findings and cost effectiveness, and reducing research waste. The value of sharing anonymised data from clinical trials is well recognised with a moderated access approach recommended. While substantial challenges to data sharing remain, there are additional challenges for qualitative data. Qualitative data including videos, interviews, and observations are often more readily identifiable than quantitative data. Existing guidance from UK Economic and Social Research Council applies to sharing qualitative data but does not address the additional challenges related to sharing qualitative data collected within trials, including the need to incorporate the necessary information and consent into already complex recruitment processes, with the additional sensitive nature of health-related data.

Methods: Work package 1 will involve separate focus group interviews with members of each stakeholder group: trial managers, clinical trialists, qualitative researchers, members of research funding bodies and trial participants who have been involved in qualitative research. Data will be analysed using thematic analysis and managed within QSR NVivo to enhance transparency. Work package 2 will involve a documentary analysis of current consent procedures for qualitative data collected as part of the conduct of clinical trials. We will include documents such as participant information leaflets and consent forms for the qualitative components in trials. We will extract data such as whether specific clauses for data sharing are included in the consent form. Content analysis will be used to analyse whether and how consent is being obtained for qualitative data sharing.

Conclusions: This study will provide insight into the existing practice of sharing of qualitative data in clinical trials and the current issues and opportunities, to help shape future research and development of guidance to encourage maximum learning to be gained from this valuable data.
Hashimoto's Thyroiditis-Associated Acute Renal Failure and Pitfalls of eGFR Interpretation in Thyroid Diseases
Authors: Tillmann Frank-Peter , Harth Ana , Jörres Achim
Published: June 2021

The authors describe a patient with severe hypothyroidism due to Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and describe the pitfalls of estimated glomerular filtration rate interpretation in such cases.
Paecilomyces Pneumonia Despite Voriconazole Prophylaxis: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Asif Abuzar A , Roy Mony , Ahamad Sharjeel
Published: June 2021

Paecilomyces species are a rare cause of fungal pulmonary infections in immunocompromised hosts. Paecilomyces variotii and Paecilomyces lilacinus are the two most common species of clinical significance. Both species differ in their susceptibility to antifungal agents. We present a rare case of a 47-year-old immunocompromised woman who developed Paecilomyces pneumonia despite being on voriconazole prophylaxis. We also present a review of the literature on other reported cases.
Preoperative assessment and optimisation: the key to good outcomes after the pandemic
Authors: McNally Scarlett A , El-Boghdadly Kariem , Kua Justin , Moonesinghe S Ramani
Published: June 2021

Complications following surgery are common, predictable and often preventable. New preoperative assessment and optimisation guidance recommends clear pathways with triggers for interventions, patient involvement, shared decision making and team education, to help both patients and service efficiency.
Treatment and management of acne in primary care settings
Authors: Kochhar Suneeta
Published: June 2021

Suneeta Kochhar explains how this common dermatological condition can be treated effectively
Latest clinical research
Authors: Greener Mark
Published: June 2021

Mark Greener summarises the latest studies relevant to primary care nurses
Comparison of Multiple Reinforcement Learning and Deep Reinforcement Learning Methods for the Task Aimed at Achieving the Goal
Authors: Parak Roman , Matousek Radomil
Published: June 2021

Reinforcement Learning (RL) and Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) methods are a promising approach to solving complex tasks in the real world with physical robots. In this paper, we compare several reinforcement  learning (Q-Learning, SARSA) and deep reinforcement learning (Deep Q-Network, Deep Sarsa) methods for a task aimed at achieving a specific goal using robotics arm UR3. The main optimization problem of this experiment is to find the best solution for each RL/DRL scenario and minimize the Euclidean distance accuracy error and smooth the resulting path by the Bézier spline method. The simulation and real word applications are controlled by the Robot Operating System (ROS). The learning environment is implemented using the OpenAI Gym library which uses the RVIZ simulation tool and the Gazebo 3D modeling tool for dynamics and kinematics.
The Fair Rubber Association: where fairly traded rubber hits the road
Authors: Kunz Martin
Published: June 2021

This article reflects on the evolution of rubber (natural latex) production and aspects of its bloody, colonial history, noting the varied applications of rubber in objects around us. The author shows why rubber is a product in need of a Fair Trade label to promote good conditions for rubber tappers, farmers and workers, despite being rejected as a product candidate by FLO international. Lessons are drawn from the evolution of Fairtrade certification criteria and design flaws and the barriers this represents for other major commodities like rubber to be added. Building on the innovations in criteria, representation and premium system developed for Fair Trade Tea plantations, the Fair Rubber Association's approach is described, including the dynamics of the market for workers and small-scale producers. This essay explores issues of measuring labour costs, determining fair prices for workers and farmers. The article shows how this was resolved for Fair Trade rubber and the challenges to be overcome of extreme price sensitivity of major users (like the car industry) and rise of synthetic rubber.
Developing a Fairtrade rice supply chain from Myanmar: achievements, challenges, lessons
Authors: Williams George
Published: June 2021

Traidcraft Exchange and its sister business Traidcraft plc have been developing Fair Trade supply chains for over three decades. As core certified ‘Fairtrade' products have become mainstream in UK markets since the late 1990s, Traidcraft Exchange has focused energies on bringing innovative supply chains and small-producer organisations into the wider Fair Trade system. The case study presented here is of rice sourced from smallholder farmers in Myanmar's Ayeyarwady region: the world's first Fairtrade product from Myanmar. The case study illustrates how Traidcraft Exchange's explicit focus on small producers and innovating new supply chains from ‘left behind' communities can work in practice. It explains challenges faced at both the supplier and market end. It seeks to show how broader programmatic aims to strengthen small producer skills and organisational capacity to engage with trade on fairer terms can mitigate risks associated with export trade to the challenging UK market.
Forstjóraráðningar í þjóðhagslega mikilvægum fyrirtækjum: Kynjahalli, útilokun og ófagleg ráðningarferli?
Authors: Christiansen Þóra H. , Óladóttir Ásta Dís , Kristjánsdóttir Erla S. , Gunnarsdóttir Sigrún
Published: June 2021

Ísland telst leiðandi á heimsvísu í jafnrétti kynjanna, þrátt fyrir það er staðan ójöfn hjá félögum sem teljast þjóðhagslega mikilvæg, þ.e. skráðum félögum. Karlar eru forstjórar allra 19 félaganna sem skráð eru á markað og gegna stjórnarformennsku í þeim öllum utan einu. Rannsóknin beinir sjónum að ráðningarferli forstjóra skráðra félaga og hvers vegna fjölgun kvenna í stjórnum hefur ekki leitt til fjölgunar kvenna í forstjórastöðum. Rannsóknarspurningin sem liggur til grundvallar er: Hvernig upplifa konur sem sitja í stjórnum skráðra félaga ráðningarferli forstjóra með tilliti til möguleika karla og kvenna á því að hljóta starfið? Tekin voru viðtöl við 22 konur sem sitja í stjórnum allra skráðra félaga á Íslandi. Niðurstöður leiða í ljós óánægju með ríkjandi ráðningarvenjur sem stjórnarkonur upplifa sem mjög lokað ferli. Mikið er treyst á tengslanet stjórnarmanna og lista frá ráðningarstofum sem sinna stjórnendaleit. Slík ráðningarferli eru útilokandi fyrir konur og upplifa sumir viðmælendur togstreitu vegna eigin þátttöku í ferlinu. Nýnæmi rannsóknarinnar felst í því að í fyrsta sinn er rætt við konur sem sitja í stjórnum allra skráðra félaga á Íslandi og viðhorf þeirra og upplifun af ráðningarferli í æðstu stjórnunarstöður dregið fram og það borið saman við nýjar leiðbeiningar um góða stjórnarhætti og fjölbreytileika í þjóðhagslega mikilvægum fyrirtækjum, sem taka gildi 1. júlí 2021.
Healing the ‘split’: trauma as a dynamic in psychosis
Authors: Franco Lucia , Nicholls Lindsey
Published: June 2021

In this article, the first author uses an autobiographical account of a trauma she experienced and shows how, in her understanding, this led to her developing what was diagnosed as paranoid schizophrenia. The trauma forced her to accept a distortion of her understanding of reality, which, she explains, caused a split in her ego between the inner truth of the event and the imposed distortion. She considers Freud’s theory of how trauma develops and looks at how it applies to her case. Using Winnicott’s theory of there being a ‘false self’ in psychosis, she shows how a false self was formed out of the distortion. Bion’s understanding of the development of thought applied to trauma is used to give insight into how the mind finds it difficult to process thought when a trauma occurs and, using Brown’s understanding, she indicates how this is similar to what happens in psychosis. She utilizes Winnicott’s explanation of there being a trauma not lived through, as if not experienced, being present in psychosis and how the need to experience, ‘remember’, this trauma is for healing to take place. In conclusion, she argues how the reaching and establishing of the inner truth is what is needed for recovery to happen and for the split in the ego to heal.
Abel inversion method using Chebyshev wavelets for tomographic reconstruction of an axisymmetric medium
Authors: Elfagrich Mahfoud , Ait Haj Said Abdessadek , El Fagrich Kamal
Published: June 2021

We describe an Abel inversion method for tomographic reconstruction of an axisymmetric medium. The essence of this method is the approximation of data by Chebyshev wavelets. A numerical method and operational matrices are proposed. The accuracy of the method is tested in terms of the noise coefficient. The studied method is compared with the Legendre wavelets method. The results show that the proposed method is less sensitive to noise. We also demonstrate the efficiency of the developed method by obtaining good and expected results for the inversion of interferometric data.
Multi-objective optimization for structured illumination in dynamic x-ray tomosynthesis
Authors: Ma Xu , Xu Hao , Restrepo Carlos M. , Arce Gonzalo R.
Published: June 2021

Dynamic coded x-ray tomosynthesis (CXT) uses a set of encoded x-ray
sources to interrogate objects lying on a moving conveyor mechanism.
The object is reconstructed from the encoded measurements received by
the uniform linear array detectors. We propose a multi-objective
optimization (MO) method for structured illuminations to balance the
reconstruction quality and radiation dose in a dynamic CXT system. The
MO framework is established based on a dynamic sensing geometry with
binary coding masks. The Strength Pareto Evolutionary Algorithm 2 is
used to solve the MO problem by jointly optimizing the coding masks,
locations of x-ray sources, and exposure moments. Computational
experiments are implemented to assess the proposed MO method. They
show that the proposed strategy can obtain a set of Pareto optimal
solutions with different levels of radiation dose and better
reconstruction quality than the initial setting.