bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SARS-CoV-2 Infections, Impaired Tissue, and Metabolic Health: Pathophysiology and Potential Therapeutics
Authors: Singh Shailendra Pratap , Kanwal Abhinav , Amar Salomon , Bhatnagar Aayushi , Singh Sujeet Kumar , Patra Sanjib K. , Kanwar Navjot , Manna Ranata
Published: February 2022

The SARS-CoV-2 enters the human airways and comes into contact with the mucous membranes lining the mouth, nose, and eyes. The virus enters the healthy cells and uses cell machinery to make several copies itself. Critically ill patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 may have damaged lungs, air sacs, lining, and walls. Since COVID-19 causes cytokine storm, it damages the alveolar cells of the lungs and fills them with fluid, making it harder to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide. The SARS-CoV-2 infection causes a range of complications, including mild to critical breathing difficulties. It has been observed that older people suffering from health conditions like cardiomyopathies, nephropathies, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes instigate severe symptoms. Many people who died due to COVID-19 had impaired metabolic health [IMH], characterized by hypertension, dyslipidemia, and hyperglycemia, i.e., diabetes, cardiovascular system, and renal diseases, making their retrieval challenging. Jeopardy stresses for increased mortality from COVID-19 include older age, COPD, ischemic heart disease, diabetes mellitus, and immunosuppression. However, no targeted therapies are available as of now. Almost two-thirds of diagnosed coronavirus patients had cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, out of which 37% were under 60. The NHS audit revealed that with a higher expression of ACE-2 receptors, viral particles could easily bind their protein spikes and get inside the cells, finally causing COVID-19 infection. Hence, people with IMH are more prone to COVID-19 and, ultimately, comorbidities. This review provides enormous information about tissue [lungs, heart, and kidneys] damage, pathophysiological changes, and impaired metabolic health of SARS-CoV-2 infected patients. Moreover, it also designates the possible therapeutic targets of COVID-19 and drugs which can be used against these targets.
Impact of the Cannabinoid System in Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Li Shuangtao , Huang Yuanbing , Yu Lijun , Ji Xiaoyu , Wu Jie
Published: February 2022

Cannabinoids are compounds that were initially isolated from cannabis marihuana and are also widely present in both nervous and immune systems of animals. In recent years, with in-depth research on cannabinoids, their clinical medicinal value has been evaluated, and many exciting achievements have been continuously accumulating, especially in the field of neurodegenerative disease. Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of neurodegenerative disease that causes dementia and has become a global health problem that seriously impacts human health today. In this review, we discuss the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. How cannabinoids act on different endocannabinoid receptor subtypes to regulate Alzheimer’s disease, the roles of the endocannabinoid system in Alzheimer’s disease are outlined, and the underlying mechanisms are discussed. Finally, we summarize the most relevant opportunities of cannabinoid pharmacology related to Alzheimer’s disease and discuss the potential usefulness of cannabinoids in the clinical treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
Galectin-3 in Microglia-Mediated Neuroinflammation: Implications for
Central Nervous System Diseases
Authors: Tian Yu-Ke , Ye Da-Wei , Ge Meng-Meng , Chen Nan , Zhou Ya-Qun , Yang Hui
Published: February 2022

Microglial activation is one of the common hallmarks shared by various central nervous
system (CNS) diseases. Based on surrounding circumstances, activated microglia play either detrimental
or neuroprotective effects. Galectin-3 (Gal-3), a group of β-galactoside-binding proteins, has
been cumulatively revealed to be a crucial biomarker for microglial activation after injuries or diseases.
In consideration of the important role of Gal-3 in the regulation of microglial activation, it
might be a potential target for the treatment of CNS diseases. Recently, Gal-3 expression has been
extensively investigated in numerous pathological processes as a mediator of neuroinflammation, as
well as in cell proliferation. However, the underlying mechanisms of Gal-3 involved in microgliamediated
neuroinflammation in various CNS diseases remain to be further investigated. Moreover,
several clinical studies support that the levels of Gal-3 are increased in the serum or cerebrospinal
fluid of patients with CNS diseases. Thus, we summarized the roles and underlying mechanisms of
Gal-3 in activated microglia, thus providing a better insight into its complexity expression pattern,
and contrasting functions in CNS diseases.
A Review of Functional Values of Melon Seeds
Authors: Kumar Akash , Jangra Aarzoo , Pramanik Jhilam
Published: February 2022

Wastage of food is a big concern for the world. In summers, several fruits are
available like watermelon, muskmelon, etc. Muskmelons are fruits that are consumed all over the
world. Around 32 % of muskmelon is wasted; it includes 5 % seeds and 27 % peel of the total
weight. Seeds of muskmelons have great nutritional benefits. They have a very large number of
bioactive compounds like tocopherols, phospholipids, and sterols. Muskmelon seeds have
antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic, anti-Alzheimer, and diuretic
properties and can be used to treat or prevent many diseases. Therefore, muskmelon seeds can be
used as a functional food.
Correlation between farmers' income and social changes case study in Kawangkoan District and Tareran District, Minahasa Regency, North Sulawesi Province, Indonesia
Authors: Kalangi Joula S. , Kalalo Rieneke R.
Published: February 2022

This research is about how the occurrence of social changes in society in relation to farmers' income, so the problem was to find out the extent to which farmers' income related to social change. The aim was to analyze the relationship between farmers’ income and social changes that occurred in two sub-districts, namely Kawangkoan and Tareran. The population in this study was taken from farmer families who got their income from agricultural products amounting to 626 households and then determined the samples from 125 families. By using the quantitative analysis technique of product-moment correlation, the results showed the magnitude of the correlation coefficient which was developed into a coefficient of determination than the interpretation of r2 = 0.9216 or 92.16% explained that an increase in the income of 1 unit would be followed by an increase in social change of 0.9216. In other words, the increase in farmers’ income by 1% would increase the social change by 92.16%. From the results above, it is clear that it supports the formulation of the hypothesis that there is a positive relationship between farmers’ income with social changes in the community.
Amplified Listening to Race and Gender in Fiamma Montezemolo’s "Echo" and Stephanie Dinkins’s "N’TOO"
Authors: Klassen Lois , Aceves Sepúlveda Gabriela
Published: February 2022

Looking retrospectively and prospectively, this article reflects on what is heard when listening to the women talking inside artworks. Both Echo (2014) by Fiamma Montezemolo and Not the Only One (N’TOO), an ongoing project by Stephanie Dinkins, present sound archives that animate spaces with fragments of dissenting women’s voices. Looking back at the impact of inSITE, a curated international art festival in the Tijuana and San Diego region, Echo amplifies the sonic remains of art produced in the context of NAFTA. In N’TOO a living AI archive is potentiated as a fourth generation in the artist’s family, carrying on the histories and subjectivities of three women. N’TOO optimistically intervenes in AI’s expansionist and biased trajectories by furthering Black and familial subjectivity in a specific context of racial and gender foreclosures. Despite their spare use of sound, both artworks enable amplified listening through the avatar-like objecthood afforded by gallery-based media artworks. This methodology is consistent with decolonizing efforts in Canada and has significance for artists intervening in intersectional, race, and gender studies, border studies, and in settings of computational or interactive technology.
Introduction to "No Template: Art and the Technologies of Race"
Authors: Driscoll Megan
Published: February 2022

Guest editor Megan Driscoll's introduction to the special issue, "No Template: Art and the Technologies of Race."
Be the Glitch
Authors: Gerba Hank
Published: February 2022

This essay reviews Legacy Russell’s Glitch Feminism (Brooklyn: Verso, 2020).
Web-Based Patient Educational Material on Osteosarcoma: Quantitative Assessment of Readability and Understandability
Authors: Gulbrandsen Trevor Robert , Skalitzky Mary Kate , Shamrock Alan Gregory , Gao Burke , Hasan Obada , Miller Benjamin James
Published: February 2022

Background

Patients often turn to web-based resources following the diagnosis of osteosarcoma. To be fully understood by average American adults, the American Medical Association (AMA) and National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommend web-based health information to be written at a 6th grade level or lower. Previous analyses of osteosarcoma resources have not measured whether text is written such that readers can process key information (understandability) or identify available actions to take (actionability). The Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool (PEMAT) is a validated measurement of understandability and actionability.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate web-based osteosarcoma resources using measures of readability, understandability, and actionability.

Methods

Using the search term “osteosarcoma,” two independent Google searches were performed on March 7, 2020 (by AGS), and March 11, 2020 (by TRG). The top 50 results were collected. Websites were included if they were directed at providing patient education on osteosarcoma. Readability was quantified using validated algorithms: Flesh-Kincaid Grade Ease (FKGE), Flesch-Kincaid Grade-Level (FKGL). A higher FKGE score indicates that the material is easier to read. All other readability scores represent the US school grade level. Two independent PEMAT assessments were performed with independent scores assigned for both understandability and actionability. A PEMAT score of 70% or below is considered poorly understandable or poorly actionable. Statistical significance was defined as P≤.05.

Results

Two searches yielded 53 unique websites, of which 37 (70%) met the inclusion criteria. The mean FKGE and FKGL scores were 40.8 (SD 13.6) and 12.0 (SD 2.4), respectively. No website scored within the acceptable NIH or AHA recommended reading level. Only 4 (11%) and 1 (3%) website met the acceptable understandability and actionability threshold. Both understandability and actionability were positively correlated with FKGE (ρ=0.55, P<.001; ρ=0.60, P<.001), but were otherwise not significantly associated with other readability scores. There were no associations between readability (P=.15), understandability (P=.20), or actionability (P=.31) scores and Google rank.

Conclusions

Overall, web-based osteosarcoma patient educational materials scored poorly with respect to readability, understandability, and actionability. None of the web-based resources scored at the recommended reading level. Only 4 achieved the appropriate score to be considered understandable by the general public. Authors of patient resources should incorporate PEMAT and readability criteria to improve web-based resources to support patient understanding.
Digital Approaches to Automated and Machine Learning Assessments of Hearing: Scoping Review (Preprint)
Authors: Wasmann Jan-Willem , Pragt Leontien , Eikelboom Robert , Swanepoel De Wet
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

Hearing loss affects 1 in 5 people worldwide and is estimated to affect 1 in 4 by 2050. Treatment relies on the accurate diagnosis of hearing loss; however, this first step is out of reach for >80% of those affected. Increasingly automated approaches are being developed for self-administered digital hearing assessments without the direct involvement of professionals.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to provide an overview of digital approaches in automated and machine learning assessments of hearing using pure-tone audiometry and to focus on the aspects related to accuracy, reliability, and time efficiency. This review is an extension of a 2013 systematic review.

METHODS

A search across the electronic databases of PubMed, IEEE, and Web of Science was conducted to identify relevant reports from the peer-reviewed literature. Key information about each report’s scope and details was collected to assess the commonalities among the approaches.

RESULTS

A total of 56 reports from 2012 to June 2021 were included. From this selection, 27 unique automated approaches were identified. Machine learning approaches require fewer trials than conventional threshold-seeking approaches, and personal digital devices make assessments more affordable and accessible. Validity can be enhanced using digital technologies for quality surveillance, including noise monitoring and detecting inconclusive results.

CONCLUSIONS

In the past 10 years, an increasing number of automated approaches have reported similar accuracy, reliability, and time efficiency as manual hearing assessments. New developments, including machine learning approaches, offer features, versatility, and cost-effectiveness beyond manual audiometry. Used within identified limitations, automated assessments using digital devices can support task-shifting, self-care, telehealth, and clinical care pathways.

CLINICALTRIAL
Behavioral Efficacy of a Sexual Health Mobile App for Men Who Have Sex With Men: Randomized Controlled Trial of Mobile Messaging for Men (Preprint)
Authors: Sullivan Patrick Sean , Stephenson Rob , Hirshfield Sabina , Mehta Cyra Christina , Zahn Ryan , Bauermeister Jose A , Horvath Keith , Chiasson Mary Ann , Gelaude Deborah , Mullin Shelby , Downing Jr Martin J , Olansky Evelyn Jolene , Wiatrek Sarah , Rogers Erin Q , Rosenberg Eli , Siegler Aaron J , Mansergh Gordon
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) face the highest burden of HIV in the United States, and there is a paucity of efficacious mobile health (mHealth) HIV prevention and care interventions tailored specifically for GBMSM. We tested a mobile app combining prevention messages and access to core prevention services for GBMSM.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to measure the efficacy of the Mobile Messaging for Men (M-cubed) app and related services to increase HIV prevention and care behaviors in diverse US GBMSM.

METHODS

We conducted a randomized open-label study with a waitlist control group among GBMSM in 3 groups (low-risk HIV-negative group, high-risk HIV-negative group, and living-with-HIV [LWH] group) recruited online and in venues in Atlanta, Detroit, and New York City. Participants were randomly assigned to receive access to the app immediately or at 9 months after randomization. The app provided prevention messages in 6 domains of sexual health and offered ordering of at-home HIV and sexually transmitted infection test kits, receiving preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) evaluations and navigation, and service locators. Serostatus- and risk-specific prevention outcomes were evaluated at baseline, at the end of the intervention period, and at 3, 6, and 9 months after the intervention period.

RESULTS

In total, 1226 GBMSM were enrolled and randomized; of these 611 (49.84%) were assigned to the intervention group and 608 (99.51%) were analyzed, while 615 (50.16%) were assigned to the control group and 612 (99.51%) were analyzed. For high-risk GBMSM, allocation to the intervention arm was associated with higher odds of HIV testing during the intervention period (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.02, 95% CI 1.11-3.66) and with higher odds of using PrEP in the 3 months after the intervention period (aOR 2.41, 95% CI 1.00-5.76, P<.05). No changes in HIV prevention or care were associated with allocation to the intervention arm for the low-risk HIV-negative and LWH groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Access to the M-cubed app was associated with increased HIV testing and PrEP use among high-risk HIV-negative GBMSM in 3 US cities. The app could be made available through funded HIV prevention providers; additional efforts are needed to understand optimal strategies to implement the app outside of the research setting.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03666247; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03666247

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

RR2-10.2196/16439
Self-reported prevalence of skin problems among residents of a peri-urban community of Chandigarh (Preprint)
Authors: Narang Kavita , Mehta Hitaishi , Ghai Sandhya , Saini Sushma , Narang Tarun
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

Although skin diseases are among the most common problems observed in healthcare settings, the skin health is relatively ignored. Besides the morbidity, skin diseases also pose a huge financial and psychological burden for the patients and their families, but there is lack of population-based prevalence data related to skin disorders.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the prevalence of skin problems in the selected population of peri-urban community of Chandigarh from patients’ point of view.

METHODS

A cross sectional study design was used to assess the prevalence of skin problems. Data was collected with the help of an interview schedule, including demographic parameters, family income and hygiene practices. All skin problems as perceived and reported by the respondent were included in the study. Patients who had sought healthcare services were asked additional questions regarding type of treatment received and the facility visited.

RESULTS

A total of 3807 participants were enrolled from various households, irrespective of age and gender. Overall, 159 participants reported having a skin problem. Point-prevalence of self-reported skin problems in the present study was 41.7 per 1000 population. Skin problems were most prevalent in 31-45 years age group (30.4%). Allergy was the most common self-reported skin problem (10.8 per 1000 population) followed by itching (7.1 per 1000) and fungal infection (6.3 per 1000). About one-fourth (23.9%) of patients were not receiving any treatment for their skin problem.

CONCLUSIONS

Skin diseases were common in the studied community, affecting both genders and all age groups. Focus on management of few common conditions may greatly reduce the overall burden of skin diseases. An alarming number of patients not receiving treatment or seeking treatment from quacks highlights the gaps in health care.
Measurement of subjective and objective indices after progressive resistance training compared with aerobic training in Patients with Haemophilia: a study protocol (Preprint)
Authors: Pereira Felicianus Anthony , Soomro Nabila Najam , Hasnain Dilshad Farheen
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

Bleeding episodes in mild haemophilia may occur after major injuries or surgical procedures with some people not experiencing bleeding episodes. People suffering from moderate haemophilia bleed once a month, however they rarely experience spontaneous bleeding. Those suffering from severe haemophilia bleed quite often into muscles or joints, and episodes can occur once to twice a week. Bleeding usually occurs spontaneously.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of progressive resistance training on quality of life, muscular strength and joint score in patients with haemophilia.

METHODS

Sixty patients will be enrolled in the study. Thirty patients will be allocated to control group, and thirty to intervention group. Controls will be administered active muscle stretching and aerobic exercises. Intervention group will be given active muscle stretching, and resistance training. Patients will be randomly allocated to each group. Anthropometric data will be measured pre-test to establish a baseline. Study variables include muscular strength, and quality of life. All tests will be measured pre-test and post-test to compare effects of treatment.

RESULTS

Participant recruitment commenced in June 2021. The post intervention phase will be completed by August 2020. Data analysis will commence after this. A write-up for publication is expected to be completed after the follow-up phase is finalized in August 2021.

CONCLUSIONS

If resistance training is found to be effective in improving quality of life and muscular strength in participants, it could reduce the frequency of factor therapy given prophylactically, or even as acute treatment, thus directing it towards more severe cases. It will also provide financial relief to organizations supporting the treatment of the hemophilic population.

CLINICALTRIAL

Registered as a clinical trial in clinicaltrials.gov on 19th May, 2021 (identifier: NCT04892628)
Surfing The New Wave: International Women’s Year and the Geopolitics of 1970s Mexican Feminism
Authors: Olcott Jocelyn
Published: February 2022

Although scholars and activists point to the 1975 International Women’s Year Conference as a pivotal moment in the development of  transnational feminist networks, there has been less attention paid to the importance of its taking place in Mexico City. This article explores how the “new wave” of Mexican feminism in the early 1970s shaped policy priorities within Mexico as well as  how the geopolitical context informed the range of possibilities open to feminist activists. As Mexican  President Luis Echeverría pursued recognition on the international stage, he sought to align Mexicanpolicies with UN priorities around population  control and women’s opportunities.
Current recommendations for the atopic dermatitis and food allergy treatment in children
Authors: Nyankovskyy S.L. , Nyankovska О.S. , Yatsula M.S. , Horodylovska M.I.
Published: February 2022

Atopic dermatitis is the most common chronic childhood inflammatory skin disease. The chronic and recurrent nature of pediatric atopic dermatitis requires the use of active therapy for flares and maintenance therapy to promote the integrity of the skin barrier and prevent future flares. Systemic therapy is warranted for patients who have inadequate disease control (persistent severity and extent or significant impact on the quality of life) despite appropriate treatment with topical therapy and/or phototherapy. Over the past several decades, the prevalence of food allergy has continued to increase. It has become a significant health burden affecting 6–13% of the global population. There are two main types of medications that can be used to relieve the symptoms of the allergic reaction to food: antihistamines and adrenaline. Antihistamines can be used for food allergy prevention and treatment, in particular dimetindene maleate — Edermik.
Modalidad abierta, a distancia y mixta: mecanismo para disminuir la desigualdad educativa
Authors: Casillas Valdivia Laura C.
Published: February 2022

En México, la cobertura en educación superior es altamente heterogénea y desigual. Al ser la Ciudad de México la que concentra el mayor número de Instituciones –públicas y privadas– y planes y programas de estudio, se deja con limitado acceso a personas que radican en otras entidades federativas; o bien, a personas que por diversas razones no pueden asistir de manera presencial. En este sentido el suayed de la unam, con la experiencia acumulada de 50 años de ofrecer educación superior de calidad, funge como mecanismo para disminuir esta desigualdad, al absorber el 11% de la matrícula que cursa estudios de licenciatura en modalidades no presenciales en instituciones públicas de educación superior.
El SUAyED y su papel ante la desigualdad educativa
Authors: Soberanes González Mariana
Published: February 2022

A través del Sistema Universidad Abierta y Educación a Distancia (suayed), la Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (unam) coadyuva a disminuir la brecha educativa en el nivel de educación superior al permitir mejorar las condiciones de vida de la población que de otra manera no puede tener acceso a estudiar una licenciatura. México es un país con amplias desigualdades sociales que ocasionan que muchas personas deserten de sus estudios para cubrir otras necesidades, principalmente económicas. Este artículo da a conocer el papel activo del suayed de la unam en la reducción de dichas desigualdades educativas y, en consecuencia, sociales. Asimismo, doy a conocer mi experiencia como estudiante de este sistema para que, a través de ella, algunos encuentren dentro de este sistema de estudio una posibilidad de cumplir sus metas universitarias.
Effect of Air Entrainment on the Properties of Concrete Structures Using Hydrogen per Oxide as an Admixture
Authors: Dhakar Ekta
Published: February 2022

Abstract: Air entrained concrete can be produced by introducing suitable air-entraining agent, one such commonly available material in India is hydrogen peroxide which is being used in my experimental work. The primary objective of this study to find the appropriate amount of hydrogen peroxide (3%) for strength and density, water absorption, other properties of concrete. For which the amount of H2O2 is varied from 0 %, 2.5%, 5%, and 7.5% H2O2 by weight of 100 kg of cement. The test which was carried out in the experimental work were density, workability, strength, water absorption, the slump of air-entrained concrete and aggression resistance of air-entrained concrete against an acid attack such as H2SO4, etc. Total 48 No. of the concrete cube was cast for the experimental work. The result of the experiment work shows if H2O2 is used in the range of 5-6% it will provide better workability, less water absorption and improved resistance against acid attack with acceptable 5-7% decrease in compressive strength
Obtaining protective coatings based on NbCo2–Zr–WC composition
Authors: Gerashchenkova E. Yu. , Bobkova T. I. , Gerashchenkov D. A. , Bystrov R. Yu. , Makarov A. M. , Farmakovsky B. V.
Published: February 2022

The results of complex studies on the production of protective coatings based on the composition NbCo2–Zr–WC are presented. Coatings obtained by microplasma spraying have high microhardness (~15.0 GPa) and wear resistance (~1.0·10–8).
Optimization Of Cellulase Production By Various Species Isolated From Cellulose Rich Sites
Authors: Josh Namrata , Mahawar Preeti
Published: February 2022

Cellulase is group of enzymes responsible for degradation of cellulose, a plant polymer. Cellulase has vast applications in various industries and hence continuous research is going on for better source of cellulase. Among all the different types of sources, microorganisms are found to be a prominent source of enzymes. As microorganisms can be easily isolated, grown and maintained for longer duration, making them potential enzyme producers. Industrial scale production through various types of fermentation enables large scale production. These microorganisms can be easily isolated from garden and nursery soil, sawmills and other wood contaminated area. Here, a study was carried out to isolate potential microorganisms capable of cellulase production for industrial applications. Samples were collected from five different sites having probable higher population of cellulase producers. Media having carboxymethyl cellulose as sole carbon source was used for selective screening of cellulase producers. Based on the zone of clearance assay, six potential microorganisms were selected and optimized for cellulase production. Concentration of carbon sources, type of nitrogen source, temperature, time and pH were the key factors which were optimized in the study. Based on the results of the study, it was found that out of six isolated, 3 belongs to Streptomyces species, 2 belongs to Pseudomonas species and 1 belongs to Jonesia. Streptomyces and Pseudomonas are among the most common producers but here we have also got a less common producer from Jonesia family. Highest enzyme activity of around 4.1U/mL was found in the cellulase obtained from Streptomyces glomeratus strain NVJ01. Optimization has shown that, CMC concentration of 1.0% with ammonium nitrate gave highest production when incubated for 48 hrs. at 6.5 pH and 35ºC.
Within Subject Variation Of Seminal Parameters After 5 Days Of Abstinence
Authors: P. Godatwar  , k.p.skandhan  , B.s.prasad  , B.l.mehra  , G. Singh
Published: February 2022

World over, male infertility is on rise. Several causes for infertility are known. Semen examination report is an important document, of which total sperm count and percentage of sperm motility are very well considered for understanding the status of fertility. Several factors affecting these parameters are discussed by different groups of workers. Abstinence maintained prior to semen collection differed among different studies. Abstinence may have an influence on semen parameters. Several reports show submission of sample is done after random collection. If collection is done after number of days of abstinence the semen will be poor in quality. It is known that sperms are damaged if they remain more number of days in male system prior to its release. As spermatogenesis is a continuous process, number of sperms will be more in testes if not released out. Percentage of sperm motility in such samples will be poor. Similarly the quality of semen of daily collected is likely to be poor where sperms are less in number. Considering the said facts we have opted to find out if any variation in semen takes place if abstinence period is strictly maintained. In the present study, a total number of thirty five young healthy men supplied semen samples on three different occasions at a fixed time after maintaining abstinence for a fixed period of five days. The time of collection of semen is also an important factor as semen collected at different timings of the day after maintaining same fixed number of days of abstinence showed significant difference in values. Knowing seasonal changes lead to difference in parameters of semen, we completed the present study in one season. Our results on all parameters showed change in values in all three samples, collected on three different days but they were statistically insignificant. Our study favors collection of sample after fixed number of five days of abstinence.
Change Control Management: An Overview
Authors: Bharathy Pavithra , Roupal Morais Shabna
Published: February 2022

Change control is a basic element of the quality management system of a pharmaceutical company, that focuses on controlling change to provide a quality product by preventing non - compliance. Changes may occur at any time during the product life cycle, leading to changes in the manufacturing process, the number of materials, and the manufacturing location. All of these changes are post-approved changes. These changes can be controlled and not eliminated, through proper assessment and action plans. The change control committee consisting of the head of quality assurance, manufacturing, sales and other members of relevant disciplines, inspect the proposed changes that may alter the validated and qualified state of facilities, equipment or process. The proposed change will likely have an impact on the quality of production or Good Manufacturing Practice as there are done to be in line with the International Standard Organization requirements. These approved changes should not impact the quality, safety and potency of medicinal product. If ignored, it makes the patient life - critical which may even lead to death. This present review provides an overview of the industry’s Change Control change management protocol in Quality Management System in a company. The major objective is to identify, evaluate, measure, provide action and final authorization to ensure that the changes should not affect the product strength, integrity, purity, quality, or safety. There are many aspects of view on the change control management that take place in the pharmaceutical industry, where we can gain knowledge on concepts of change control. This article also delivers a flow of change management process starting from the request on change by an initiator to the closure of change with appropriate remedial action and follow up assigned by Quality Unit and other responsible authorities.
Power and Operations. Simondon and the Imaginaries of the Nuclear Industry
Authors: Pottin Ange
Published: February 2022

In this paper, I use a theoretical framework inspired by Simondon to analyze the closed fuel cycle strategy implemented by the French nuclear industry in the 1970's. I confront the technocratic conception of technical ensembles, which sees them as the instantiation of a power over nature, with their technological understanding as systems of operations, i.e., points of mediation between technical invention and the natural environment. I argue that the closed fuel cycle strategy can be understood as relying on an imaginary ecology. I propose here a form of critical epistemology, which I compare with Jasanoff's theory of sociotechnical imaginaries, leading to a sociopolitical comprehension of the social efficiency and motives of such a representation. Finally, I question the complementarity conditions between those two frameworks, one normative and the other explanatory.
La educación tecnológica en Colombia. Un marco epistémico para repensar un problema conceptual
Authors: Monterroza-Ríos Álvaro David , Escobar-Gómez Victor Alfonso
Published: February 2022

El artículo presenta una reconstrucción de los problemas de la educación tecnológica en Colombia, clasificándolos entre los aspectos legislativos, comparativos y socioculturales. Se identifica una confusión conceptual que ha creado un problema circular entre una legislación imprecisa que mantiene un sesgo cultural contra este tipo de educación. En consecuencia, se plantea repensarla bajo el concepto de sistema heterogéneo de acciones y prácticas, compuesto por agentes, artefactos, conocimientos, normas y valores. De esta manera, se propone comprender los distintos niveles en la educación tecnológica en Colombia (técnico profesional, tecnológico, ingenieril) como prácticas para desarrollar competencias específicas relevantes para el diseño, innovación, operación, mantenimiento o reparación de sistemas tecnológicos particulares en un marco situado de normas y valores. Al final se presenta un marco epistémico para caracterizar los niveles de educación tecnológica en una escala cualitativa relacionando los tipos de conocimientos (explicito/implícito o representacional/operacional) con las capacidades de innovación y diseño.
De las eras a los paisajes. Una perspectiva crítica sobre la «era del átomo»: encuentro entre CTS y filosofía de la tecnología
Authors: Bensaude-Vincent Bernadette
Published: February 2022

Los estudios CTS han intentado que la ciencia observe todo lo que ocurre en un campo de estudio y que no se limite a la teoría, como se evidencia en lo que se llama el «giro empírico» en la filosofía de la tecnología. Este estudio muestra el posible vínculo entre la filosofía de la tecnología y la perspectiva CTS, y propone que el concepto de tiempo-paisaje es más apropiado que el de tiempo cronológico para entender los cambios tecnológicos actuales. En este sentido, más allá de las conjeturas teóricas sobre la tecnología, esta investigación toma la energía nuclear como caso de estudio para cuestionar y ponderar los postulados tradicionales del cambio técnico, adoptando el principio metodológico de la exigencia de concreción de los estudios empíricos y el concepto de imaginario sociotécnico. El proceso de indagación combinó elementos como la epistemología, la ética y la política en una perspectiva antropológica. Finalmente, se establece que el uso de la energía nuclear, considerada como parte de la era del átomo, invita a pensar en el tiempo en términos distintos a los cronológicos. El estudio también ayuda a ilustrar los beneficios mutuos de una asociación entre los estudios CTS y la filosofía de la tecnología.
Faculty and Resident Contraceptive Opt Outs and Training Site Restrictions: A CERA Study
Authors: Shih Grace , Stulberg Debra , Barreto Tyler W. , Andrilla C. Holly A. , Guzman Suzette , Nothnagle Melissa
Published: February 2022

Background and Objectives: Contraception is a core component of family medicine residency curriculum. Institutional environments can influence residents’ access to contraceptive training and thus their ability to meet the reproductive health needs of their patients.
Methods: Contraceptive training questions were included in the 2020 Council of Academic Family Medicine Educational Research Alliance (CERA) survey of family medicine residency program directors. The survey asked how many faculty and residents opt out of providing contraceptive methods for moral or religious reasons, and whether training sites have institutional restrictions on contraception. We performed descriptive statistics and regression to identify program characteristics associated with having a resident or faculty opt out of providing contraceptive care.
Results: Of 626 program directors, 249 responded to the survey, and 237 answered the contraceptive questions. Percentages of program directors reporting any residents or faculty who opted out of contraceptive services are as follows: pill/patch/ring (residents 27%; faculty 17%), emergency contraception (residents 40%, faculty 33%), or intrauterine devices/implants (resident 29%; faculty 23%). Programs in the South (OR 2.78; 1.19-6.49) and those with Catholic affiliation (OR 2.35; 1.23-4.91) had higher adjusted odds of at least one opt-out faculty but were not associated with having opt-out residents. Eleven percent of programs had at least one training site with institutional restrictions on contraception.
Conclusions: To ensure that residents have access to adequate contraceptive training, residencies should proactively seek faculty and training environments that meet residents’ needs, and should make limitations on services clear to potential residents and patients.
Perceived Benefits of Training Clinicians in Community Engagement for a Leadership Development Program
Authors: Simpson Courtney , Silberberg Mina , Hibbard Susan T. , Lyn Michelle J. , Sawin Gregory
Published: February 2022

Background and Objectives: Community engagement (CE), including community-engaged research, is a critical tool for improving the health of patients and communities, but is not taught in most medical curricula, and is even rarer in leadership training for practicing clinicians. With the growth of value-based care and increasing concern for health equity, we need to turn our attention to the benefits of working with communities to improve health and health care. The objective of this brief report is to increase understanding of the perceived benefits of CE training for primary care clinicians, specifically those already working.
Methods: We assessed perceived benefits of CE training for primary care clinicians participating in health care transformation leadership training through analysis of learner reflection papers.
Results: Clinicians (n=12) reported transformational learning and critical shifts of perspective. Not only did they come to value and understand CE, but the training changed their perception of their roles as clinicians and leaders.
Conclusions: Educating primary care clinicians in CE as a foundational principle can orient them to the criticality of stakeholder engagement for daily practice, practice transformation, and population health improvement, and provides them with a new understanding of their roles as clinicians and leaders.
Does board composition matter? An evidence from Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al Suwaiygh Sadeem A. , Falgi Khalid I.
Published: February 2022

The study investigates the impact of board of directors’ composition on the financial performance of the Saudi listed firms, using models that aim to represent the effect of different board of directors’ composition. This paper is focused on dependent, independent and control variables that aim to test further areas that was limited to some previous researchers. It was assumed that there is a negative relationship between the board size and firm performance, as well as female board directors and firm recruiting. However, it was found that both variables have no relationship with firm performance. It was predicted that there is a positive relationship between chair independence and firm performance, as well as a negative relationship in regard to chair independence. Thus, it was established that there is a positive relationship between the non-executive directors and firm performance.
Characteristics of flow fields in the gas-liquid mini-bubble columns with PIV measurements
Authors: Li Chen , Ma Yongli , Liu Ming-yan , Wang Kaiyue
Published: February 2022

As a new type of gas-liquid microreactors, the gas-liquid mini-bubble
column have potential applications. However, few studies on the flow
fields in the mini-bubble column can be found at present. In this work,
Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) was first used to visually study the
velocity fields, vorticity fields and bubble dynamics in the gas-liquid
mini-bubble columns with column inner diameters of 1to 3 mm and
mini-bubble diameters ranged from 0.7 to 1.3 mm. It is found that with
the increase of superficial liquid velocity, bubbles rose from almost
straight line to Z-shaped or S-shaped trajectory, and the bubble
trajectory changed from 1-D to 3-D; when the bubble velocity changed,
the bubble size and gas holdup decreased; bubble terminal velocity was
controlled by bubble buoyancy and flow resistance, and increased
slightly with bubble coalescence. These findings may provide basic
reference for the design and scale-up of such mini-bubble column
reactor.
Beyond Borders: Uncertainty in Supragovernmental Tax Enforcement and Corporate Investment
Authors: Fox Zackery D. , Jacob Martin , Wilde Jaron H. , Wilson Ryan J.
Published: February 2022

Amid growing globalization, many countries have offered tax incentives to attract corporate investment. Prior research studies the role such incentives play in firms' location and investment choices. However, we have limited evidence regarding the role that uncertainty about the intensity of future tax enforcement plays in those decisions. In 2013, the European Commission (E.C.) abruptly began investigating the tax-ruling practices of several countries in response to allegations that certain firms received preferential tax treatment (“state aid cases”). We use this setting to study the economic consequences of increased uncertainty about future tax enforcement. We find evidence consistent with significant reductions in U.S. multinational enterprises' subsidiary investments within, firm input purchases from, and aggregate investment of U.S. firms flowing to targeted state aid countries. Specifically, for U.S. multinational enterprises' subsidiary investments, we find fixed assets declined by 1.7 percent of total assets, or $7.6 million per subsidiary.

JEL Classifications: M41; M48; H25; H26.
Diabetes-Induced Cellular Senescence and Senescence-Associated Secretory Phenotype Impair Cardiac Regeneration and Function Independently of Age
Authors: Marino Fabiola , Scalise Mariangela , Salerno Nadia , Salerno Luca , Molinaro Claudia , Cappetta Donato , Torella Michele , Greco Marta , Foti Daniela , Sasso Ferdinando C. , Mastroroberto Pasquale , De Angelis Antonella , Ellison-Hughes Georgina M. , Sampaolesi Maurilio , Rota Marcello , Rossi Francesco , Urbanek Konrad , Nadal-Ginard Bernardo , Torella Daniele , Cianflone Eleonora
Published: February 2022

Diabetes mellitus (DM) affects the biology of multipotent cardiac stem/progenitor cells (CSCs) and adult myocardial regeneration. We assessed the hypothesis that senescence and senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) are main mechanisms of cardiac degenerative defect in DM. Accordingly, we tested whether ablation of senescent CSCs would rescue the cardiac regenerative/reparative defect imposed by DM. We obtained cardiac tissue from nonaged (50- to 64-year-old) patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and without DM (NDM) and postinfarct cardiomyopathy undergoing cardiac surgery. A higher reactive oxygen species production in T2DM was associated with an increased number of senescent/dysfunctional T2DM-human CSCs (hCSCs) with reduced proliferation, clonogenesis/spherogenesis, and myogenic differentiation versus NDM-hCSCs in vitro. T2DM-hCSCs showed a defined pathologic SASP. A combination of two senolytics, dasatinib (D) and quercetin (Q), cleared senescent T2DM-hCSCs in vitro, restoring their expansion and myogenic differentiation capacities. In a T2DM model in young mice, diabetic status per se (independently of ischemia and age) caused CSC senescence coupled with myocardial pathologic remodeling and cardiac dysfunction. D + Q treatment efficiently eliminated senescent cells, rescuing CSC function, which resulted in functional myocardial repair/regeneration, improving cardiac function in murine DM. In conclusion, DM hampers CSC biology, inhibiting CSCs’ regenerative potential through the induction of cellular senescence and SASP independently from aging. Senolytics clear senescence, abrogating the SASP and restoring a fully proliferative/differentiation-competent hCSC pool in T2DM with normalization of cardiac function.
Evaluation of Evidence for Pathogenicity Demonstrates That BLK, KLF11, and PAX4 Should Not Be Included in Diagnostic Testing for MODY
Authors: Laver Thomas W. , Wakeling Matthew N. , Knox Olivia , Colclough Kevin , Wright Caroline F. , Ellard Sian , Hattersley Andrew T. , Weedon Michael N. , Patel Kashyap A.
Published: February 2022

Maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) is an autosomal dominant form of monogenic diabetes, reported to be caused by variants in 16 genes. Concern has been raised about whether variants in BLK (MODY11), KLF11 (MODY7), and PAX4 (MODY9) cause MODY. We examined variant-level genetic evidence (cosegregation with diabetes and frequency in population) for published putative pathogenic variants in these genes and used burden testing to test gene-level evidence in a MODY cohort (n = 1,227) compared with a control population (UK Biobank [n = 185,898]). For comparison we analyzed well-established causes of MODY, HNF1A, and HNF4A. The published variants in BLK, KLF11, and PAX4 showed poor cosegregation with diabetes (combined logarithm of the odds [LOD] scores ≤1.2), compared with HNF1A and HNF4A (LOD scores >9), and are all too common to cause MODY (minor allele frequency >4.95 × 10−5). Ultra-rare missense and protein-truncating variants (PTV) were not enriched in a MODY cohort compared with the UK Biobank population (PTV P > 0.05, missense P > 0.1 for all three genes) while HNF1A and HNF4A were enriched (P < 10−6). Findings of sensitivity analyses with different population cohorts supported our results. Variant and gene-level genetic evidence does not support BLK, KLF11, or PAX4 as a cause of MODY. They should not be included in MODY diagnostic genetic testing.