bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Micro cone-beam CT scanner based on X-ray polycapillary optics
Authors: Zhou La-Zhen , Xia Wen-Jing , Xu Qian-Qian , Chen Zan , Li Fang-Zuo , Liu Zhi-Guo , Sun Tian-Xi ,   School of Medical Information Engineering, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, China,   Key Laboratory of Biomaterials and Biofabrication in Tissue Engineering of Jiangxi Province, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, China,   Key Laboratory of Beam Technology Ministry of Education, College of Nuclear Science and Technology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
Published: April 2022

In-vivo small animal imaging system is an important part of disease research and new drug development. It is essential for living small animal imaging system to be able to provide the anatomical structure, molecular and functional information. The X-ray micro cone-beam computed tomography (micro-CBCT) can perform longitudinal study with a resolution of tens-to-hundreds of microns in a short imaging time at a relatively low cost. Furthermore, it is easy to combine with other modalities to provide abundant information about small animals. A key challenge to the micro-CBCT scanner is that its spatial and contrast resolution determined primarily by the X-ray focal spot size, the detector element size, and the system geometry. Aiming to improve the spatial resolution, contrast resolution, and imaging uniformity of the micro-CBCT system, we use the X-ray polycapillary optics for adjusting the X-ray source. A micro-CBCT based on X-ray polycapillary optics with a large field of view is constructed for the small animal imaging study. The micro-CBCT system is composed of microfocus X-ray tube with an attached polycapillary focusing X-ray lens, amorphous silicon-based flat panel detector, rotation stage, and controlling PC. The Feldkamp-Daivs-Kress (FDK) algorithm is adopted to reconstruct the image. The system performances are evaluated. The magnification of this micro-CBCT system is 1.97. The results show that the spatial resolution of the system at 10% modulation transfer function (MTF) is 9.1 lp/mm, which is 1.35 times higher than that in the case of no optics. The image uniformity deterioration caused by hardening effect is effectively alleviated by filtrating the low energy X-rays with the X-ray polycapillary optics and the contrast enhancement is more than twice. The anesthetic rats are imaged with this micro-CBCT system in vivo and the practicability of the system in small animal imaging research is verified.
Computational modeling of threat learning reveals links with anxiety and neuroanatomy in humans
Authors: Abend Rany , Burk Diana , Ruiz Sonia G , Gold Andrea L , Napoli Julia L , Britton Jennifer C , Michalska Kalina J , Shechner Tomer , Winkler Anderson M , Leibenluft Ellen , Pine Daniel S , Averbeck Bruno B
Published: April 2022

Influential theories implicate variations in the mechanisms supporting threat learning in the severity of anxiety symptoms. We use computational models of associative learning in conjunction with structural imaging to explicate links among the mechanisms underlying threat learning, their neuroanatomical substrates, and anxiety severity in humans. We recorded skin-conductance data during a threat-learning task from individuals with and without anxiety disorders (N=251; 8-50 years; 116 females). Reinforcement-learning model variants quantified processes hypothesized to relate to anxiety: threat conditioning, threat generalization, safety learning, and threat extinction. We identified the best-fitting models for these processes and tested associations among latent learning parameters, whole-brain anatomy, and anxiety severity. Results indicate that greater anxiety severity related specifically to slower safety learning and slower extinction of response to safe stimuli. Nucleus accumbens gray-matter volume moderated learning-anxiety associations. Using a modeling approach, we identify computational mechanisms linking threat learning and anxiety severity and their neuroanatomical substrates.
Neutrophil extracellular traps arm DC vaccination against NPM-mutant myeloproliferation
Authors: Tripodo Claudio , Bassani Barbara , Jachetti Elena , Cancila Valeria , Chiodoni Claudia , Portararo Paola , Botti Laura , Valenti Cesare , Perrone Milena , Ponzoni Maurilio , Comoli Patrizia , Lecchi Mara , Verderio Paolo , Curti Antonio , Colombo Mario P , Sangaletti Sabina
Published: April 2022

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are web-like chromatin structures composed by dsDNA and histones, decorated with antimicrobial proteins. Their interaction with dendritic cells (DCs) allows DC activation and maturation toward presentation of NET-associated antigens. Differently from other types of cell death that imply protein denaturation, NETosis preserves the proteins localized onto the DNA threads for proper enzymatic activity and conformational status, including immunogenic epitopes. Besides neutrophils, leukemic cells can release extracellular traps displaying leukemia-associated antigens, prototypically mutant nucleophosmin (NPMc+) that upon mutation translocates from nucleolus to the cytoplasm localizing onto NET threads. We tested NPMc+ immunogenicity through a NET/DC vaccine to treat NPMc-driven myeloproliferation in transgenic and transplantable models. Vaccination with DC loaded with NPMc+ NET (NPMc+ NET/DC) reduced myeloproliferation in transgenic mice, favoring the development of antibodies to mutant NPMc and the induction of a CD8+ T-cell response. The efficacy of this vaccine was also tested in mixed NPMc/WT bone marrow (BM) chimeras in a competitive BM transplantation setting, where the NPMc+ NET/DC vaccination impaired the expansion of NPMc+ in favor of WT myeloid compartment. NPMc+ NET/DC vaccination also achieved control of an aggressive leukemia transduced with mutant NPMc, effectively inducing an antileukemia CD8 T-cell memory response.
Analysis of rod/cone gap junctions from the reconstruction of mouse photoreceptor terminals
Authors: Ishibashi Munenori , Keung Joyce , Morgans Catherine W , Aicher Sue A , Carroll James R , Singer Joshua H , Jia Li , Li Wei , Fahrenfort Iris , Ribelayga Christophe P , Massey Stephen C
Published: April 2022

Electrical coupling, mediated by gap junctions, contributes to signal averaging, synchronization, and noise reduction in neuronal circuits. In addition, gap junctions may also provide alternative neuronal pathways. However, because they are small and especially difficult to image, gap junctions are often ignored in large-scale 3D reconstructions. Here, we reconstruct gap junctions between photoreceptors in the mouse retina using serial blockface-scanning electron microscopy, focused ion beam-scanning electron microscopy, and confocal microscopy for the gap junction protein Cx36. An exuberant spray of fine telodendria extends from each cone pedicle (including blue cones) to contact 40–50 nearby rod spherules at sites of Cx36 labeling, with approximately 50 Cx36 clusters per cone pedicle and 2–3 per rod spherule. We were unable to detect rod/rod or cone/cone coupling. Thus, rod/cone coupling accounts for nearly all gap junctions between photoreceptors. We estimate a mean of 86 Cx36 channels per rod/cone pair, which may provide a maximum conductance of ~1200 pS, if all gap junction channels were open. This is comparable to the maximum conductance previously measured between rod/cone pairs in the presence of a dopamine antagonist to activate Cx36, suggesting that the open probability of gap junction channels can approach 100% under certain conditions.
Inhibitory proteins block substrate access by occupying the active site cleft of Bacillus subtilis intramembrane protease SpoIVFB
Authors: Olenic Sandra , Heo Lim , Feig Michael , Kroos Lee
Published: April 2022

Intramembrane proteases (IPs) function in numerous signaling pathways that impact health, but elucidating the regulation of membrane-embedded proteases is challenging. We examined inhibition of intramembrane metalloprotease SpoIVFB by proteins BofA and SpoIVFA. We found that SpoIVFB inhibition requires BofA residues in and near a predicted transmembrane segment (TMS). This segment of BofA occupies the SpoIVFB active site cleft based on cross-linking experiments. SpoIVFB inhibition also requires SpoIVFA. The inhibitory proteins block access of the substrate N-terminal region to the membrane-embedded SpoIVFB active site, based on additional cross-linking experiments; however, the inhibitory proteins did not prevent interaction between the substrate C-terminal region and the SpoIVFB soluble domain. We built a structural model of SpoIVFB in complex with BofA and parts of SpoIVFA and substrate, using partial homology and constraints from cross-linking and co-evolutionary analyses. The model predicts that conserved BofA residues interact to stabilize a TMS and a membrane-embedded C-terminal region. The model also predicts that SpoIVFA bridges the BofA C-terminal region and SpoIVFB, forming a membrane-embedded inhibition complex. Our results reveal a novel mechanism of IP inhibition with clear implications for relief from inhibition in vivo and design of inhibitors as potential therapeutics.
Genetic variation in ALDH4A1 is associated with muscle health over the lifespan and across species
Authors: Villa Osvaldo , Stuhr Nicole L , Yen Chia-an , Crimmins Eileen M , Arpawong Thalida Em , Curran Sean P
Published: April 2022

The influence of genetic variation on the aging process, including the incidence and severity of age-related diseases, is complex. Here, we define the evolutionarily conserved mitochondrial enzyme ALH-6/ALDH4A1 as a predictive biomarker for age-related changes in muscle health by combining Caenorhabditis elegans genetics and a gene-wide association scanning (GeneWAS) from older human participants of the US Health and Retirement Study (HRS). In a screen for mutations that activate oxidative stress responses, specifically in the muscle of C. elegans, we identified 96 independent genetic mutants harboring loss-of-function alleles of alh-6, exclusively. Each of these genetic mutations mapped to the ALH-6 polypeptide and led to the age-dependent loss of muscle health. Intriguingly, genetic variants in ALDH4A1 show associations with age-related muscle-related function in humans. Taken together, our work uncovers mitochondrial alh-6/ALDH4A1 as a critical component to impact normal muscle aging across species and a predictive biomarker for muscle health over the lifespan.
Reorganization of postmitotic neuronal chromatin accessibility for maturation of serotonergic identity
Authors: Zhang Xinrui L , Spencer William C , Tabuchi Nobuko , Kitt Meagan M , Deneris Evan S
Published: April 2022

Assembly of transcriptomes encoding unique neuronal identities requires selective accessibility of transcription factors to cis-regulatory sequences in nucleosome-embedded postmitotic chromatin. Yet, the mechanisms controlling postmitotic neuronal chromatin accessibility are poorly understood. Here, we show that unique distal enhancers define the Pet1 neuron lineage that generates serotonin (5-HT) neurons in mice. Heterogeneous single-cell chromatin landscapes are established early in postmitotic Pet1 neurons and reveal the putative regulatory programs driving Pet1 neuron subtype identities. Distal enhancer accessibility is highly dynamic as Pet1 neurons mature, suggesting the existence of regulatory factors that reorganize postmitotic neuronal chromatin. We find that Pet1 and Lmx1b control chromatin accessibility to select Pet1-lineage-specific enhancers for 5-HT neurotransmission. Additionally, these factors are required to maintain chromatin accessibility during early maturation suggesting that postmitotic neuronal open chromatin is unstable and requires continuous regulatory input. Together, our findings reveal postmitotic transcription factors that reorganize accessible chromatin for neuron specialization.
Infinite Singletons and the Logic of Freudian Theory
Authors: Lauro Grotto Rosapia , Borozan Milos , Battilotti Giulia
Published: April 2022

The aim of this paper is to advance a formal description of the implicit logic grounding of the psychoanalytic theory. We therefore propose a new interpretation of the logical features of the Freudian unconscious process, starting from the Bi-logic formulation put forward by the Chilean psychoanalyst Matte Blanco. We conceive the universal undifferentiated state of the deep psychoanalytic Unconscious in terms of particular sets named infinite singletons, and we show how they can represent the logical foundations for a formal description of the Primary process. We first disclose some implicit assumptions underlying the common logical language. In doing so, we discover an unexpected presence of symmetry even in the most basic of logical and verbal structures. In the approach derived, we show that infiniteness, not finiteness, is the primary mode of sets, and therefore, of thinking. The pivotal consequence of this model is that the unconscious elements cannot be characterised in the absence of external reality, which produces the collapse of infinite sets and allows for the emergence of linguistic representations. Finally, we discuss how the model could represent a platform to formalise further developments of psychoanalytic theory, in particular with respect to the shift from the First to the Second Topics in Freudian theory.
Teaching Soft Skills in Healthcare and Higher Education: A Scoping Review Protocol
Authors: Daly Svetlana , McCann Clare , Phillips Katrina
Published: April 2022

Background: Soft skills and the need for their development have been discussed across industries for many years, predominantly in engineering, hospitality, and IT sectors. The importance of soft skills to career success has been well-documented, but gaps exist on how to teach them. Inter-industry variability and a lack of consensus in identifying and defining important soft skills adds to the problem. New research in teaching soft skills needs to be formally incorporated into training curricula, especially within healthcare and education sectors. This scoping review will answer these research questions: How are soft skills conceptualised, taught and assessed in healthcare and higher education?  
Methods/Design: A search of health, education, and social science databases will be conducted including peer-reviewed and grey literature. Data will be extracted using a combination of the PRISMA ScR and PAGER framework. Analysis will be carried out utilising the PAGER framework and will yield descriptive summaries.
Discussion: The review will collate literature on teaching and assessing soft skills in healthcare and higher education. It will map evidence in relation to current practices and research, gaps, evidence for practice, and research recommendations. The findings will be discussed in the full Scoping Review along with implications for teaching.
Study Protocol: Cannabis in the Closet? Older Persons' Perceptions of Stigma and their Influence on Use and Access to Medicinal Cannabis
Authors: Dahlke Sherry , Hunter Kathleen F. , Toubiana Madeline , Kalogirou Maya R. , Scheuerman Melissa , Butler Jeffrey I.
Published: April 2022

Background: Cannabis has been used for medicinal purposes for millennia. Stigma associated with cannabis use may influence older persons access to cannabis, information seeking about cannabis, and/or use of cannabis. Scant research has sought to examine the impact of older persons’ perceptions of stigma on the ways they learn about and use medicinal cannabis, with important implications for their health.

Methods/Design: In this qualitative descriptive study, we will seek older persons’ information needs and challenges accessing cannabis from older persons and professionals who work in the cannabis industry. Using open ended questions, we will survey and interview older persons who use cannabis or are considering using it about their perceptions of stigma, information seeking, choice of cannabis product, and preferred vendor. Professionals who work with cannabis will be interviewed for their experiences with older persons seeking information about and access to cannabis.

Discussion: Findings will identify what information related to medicinal cannabis use older Canadians most urgently need, shed light on any stigma they fear and/or experience when searching for such information, and inform the development of information products and knowledge mobilization strategies tailored to older Canadians’ knowledge needs.
Dynamics of human take and animal predation on sea turtle nests in Northwest Costa Rica
Authors: Reavis Janie L. , Rojas-Cañizales Daniela , Mejías-Balsalobre Carmen , Naranjo Isabel , Arauz Randall , Senko Jesse F.
Published: April 2022

Many conservation projects relocate sea turtle eggs to hatcheries to protect the sea turtle nests from the anthropogenic and natural threats they face in the early stages of development. The Rescue Center for Endangered Marine Species (CREMA) manages four sea turtle conservation projects on the nesting beaches of the Southern Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica, where the predominant nesting activity is from olive ridley turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea). Two of these nesting projects are based in Costa de Oro and San Miguel, which are adjacent beaches divided by an estuary. In this study, we compared the dynamics and rates of human and animal predation of nests prior to being relocated to the hatchery on both nesting beaches from 2012 to 2018. We hypothesized that human take and animal predation were compensatory threats, meaning that lower human take may result in higher animal predation, and vice versa, resulting in a similar number of nests lost to predation overall. We discuss the community-based conservation programs on both beaches, one of which has been monitored since 1998 (San Miguel) and the other of which has been monitored since 2012 (Costa de Oro). We found that Costa de Oro exhibited high rates of human take with up to 51% of nests being extracted per season, which has decreased since the conservation project was established. Human take was significantly higher than animal predation on both beaches and human take was significantly higher in Costa de Oro. While San Miguel exhibited higher animal predation, the difference was not statistically significant. Higher depredation by animals corresponded to higher overall nest abundance on both beaches. We were unable to find evidence that human take or animal predation increased in the absence of the other threat, suggesting a lack of compensatory effects of predation. Our findings support further analysis of animal predation and a continuation of patrol-based conservation efforts as well as community outreach to attempt to merge cultural values with sea turtle conservation.
As contribuições da visitação em parques para a saúde e bem-estar
Authors: Sancho-Pivoto Altair , Raimundo Sidnei
Published: April 2022

Com a retomada do setor de turismo num cenário pós pandêmico, será possível observar a preferência por destinos menos massificados e que valorizem pressupostos de sustentabilidade, com enfoque em aspectos naturais e culturais e na promoção da saúde e bem-estar. Os parques adquirem centralidade nesse contexto em virtude da vocação para o ecoturismo e dos potenciais benefícios associados à visitação. Nesse sentido, o presente trabalho busca reconhecer o “estado da arte” das pesquisas voltadas à apreensão e mensuração dos benefícios da visitação em parques urbanos e não urbanos para a saúde e bem-estar, de forma a revelar enfoques prioritários de investigação, lacunas e avanços existentes. A pesquisa envolveu um estudo bibliométrico em bases como Scopus e Periódicos Capes. Ao todo, 55 trabalhos foram identificados por tratar especificamente das contribuições da visitação a parques urbanos e não urbanos para a saúde e o bem-estar. Os resultados indicam a forte vinculação dos parques com a saúde e bem-estar, sobretudo em relação a aspectos físicos, prevenção de doenças, restauração por meio do contato com a natureza e momentos de sociabilidade. Já as dimensões que versam sobre o bem-estar espiritual, cultural, econômico e intelectual/laboral não compõem o escopo da maior parte dos estudos em termos de motivações da visita e benefícios percebidos.
Primer reporte de Ramphocorixa rontundocephala como epibionte de cangrejo rojo de río (Procambarus clarkii) en Colombia
Authors: González Gamboa Isabella , González Ruiz Yesid de los Ángeles , Herrera Martínez Yimy
Published: April 2022

El objetivo de este estudio fue describir un epibionte cuyos huevos se encontraron en el cangrejo rojo de río (Procambarus clarkii), la densidad de huevos y las características fisicoquímicas del cuerpo de agua donde fue encontrado. Para ello, se capturaron individuos de P. clarkii en el lago Güitoque (Colombia), se tomaron medidas biométricas, contándose los organismos epibiontes adheridos al caparazón. Además, se tomaron muestras de bentos para hacer determinaciones taxonómicas de los individuos adultos de los hemípteros presentes en el lago. Como resultado, se encontró que la especie epibionte era Ramphocorixa rotundocephala de la familia Corixidae. En promedio, los coríxidos depositaron 1007 huevos dispersos por el cuerpo del cangrejo rojo de río. El cefalotórax tuvo el mayor número de organismos adheridos, aproximadamente el 70.5% del total, mientras que el resto se distribuía en el abdomen, el telson y los urópodos. Los individuos de menos de 3 cm de longitud no tenían epibiontes. Este es el primer reporte no sólo de la presencia de hemípteros epibiontes, sobre P. clarkii en Colombia y, al parecer, en Suramérica; sino también, de R. rotundocephala como epibionte de P. clarkii. Esto demuestra que el género Ramphocorixa es capaz de ovipositar sobre la cutícula del cangrejo rojo de río. La investigación sugiere que R. rotundocephala podría ampliar su área de distribución en Colombia utilizando el cangrejo de río rojo como vehículo de dispersión.
Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Paediatric Appendicitis at a Tertiary Care Paediatric Hospital in New DelhiA Retrospective Study
Authors: Sengar Mamta , Gupta Chhabi R , Maheshwari Pritesh , Khan Niyaz , Sharma Shefalika
Published: April 2022

Introduction: Across the globe the healthcare system was severely affected by Coronavirus Disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic. Measures taken to curtail the spread of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus have severely affected the paediatric patients presenting with Acute Appendicitis (AA). Aim: To assess the impact of COVID-19 on paediatric Acute Appendicities patients at tertiary care center in New Delhi. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of patient demographics, symptomatology including delay in presentation to hospital, haematological, intraoperative findings and complications of all paediatric AA patients who underwent appendectomy from 23rd March 2020 to 22nd July 2020 (Pandemic Group- PG group) were performed. Patients presenting in corresponding time period in the year 2019 were also compared {Non Pandemic Group (NPG) group}. Group comparisons for continuously distributed data were made using Independent sample t-test. For non normally distributed data, non parametric tests in the form of Wilcoxon test were used. Chi-squared test was used for group comparisons for categorical data. Results: A total of 72 patients were included with 39 in NPG and 33 in PG group respectively. There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of age (p-value=0.759) and sex distribution (p-value=0.93). Patients in PG group had higher leukocyte counts as compared to NPG group (16748.48±7744.08 vs 12510.26±7736.58, p-value <0.007). There was no significant difference in delay in presentation, symptomatology, duration of hospital stay and postoperative complications rate between the two groups. Conclusion: There has been no significant change in the number of patients presenting with AA and the symptomatology during COVID-19 pandemic.
Effectiveness of Respiratory and Abdominal Strength Exercises in Postoperative Patients with Abdominal Surgeries: A Narrative Review
Authors: Desai Anjan R , Hathila VP
Published: April 2022

Abdominal surgeries are performed to diagnose and/or treat different medical conditions by opening the abdominal cavity through large incision in the abdominal wall. Weakness of abdominal muscles, pulmonary complications and incisional pain are more common after abdominal surgeries. There has been significant research on managing such complications by using variety of physiotherapy interventions. This review intended to narrate the available literature on the effects of respiratory exercise and abdominal muscle strength training on pain and abdominal muscle strength after major abdominal surgeries. A systematic search of online databases was conducted and based on the reference lists of selected articles, further studies were identified. Twelve articles that met the inclusion criteria were analysed. Many of the previous studies concluded that respiratory exercise and abdominal muscle strength training after open abdominal surgeries improve abdominal muscle strength and decrease pain. Respiratory functions were also reported to be improved. But recent evidence regarding such effectiveness is insufficient and these aspects need to be explored in future.
Giant Groin Lipoma Deluding as Hernia: A Case Report
Authors: Saxena Divish , Dubhashi Siddharth Pramod
Published: April 2022

Diagnosis of a soft tissue tumour in groin region is rather misleading owing to the fact of similarity in complaints of pain and swelling, especially in cases of irreducible groin hernias. Strategic selection of investigations and treatment option plays an enormous role in preoperative management of these patients. Authors present a case of a 36-year-old female with a previous history of two cesarean sections through Pfannenstiel incision with a soft tissue irreducible swelling in left inguinal region. Computed Tomography (CT) abdomen revealed a groin lipomatous lesion. Groin lipomas should be included in the differential diagnosis of irreducible groin swellings. A history of previous cesarean section in this patient prompted us to have a provisional diagnosis of incisional hernia. Meticulous planning of specific treatment strategy is essential for an effective outcome.
Effect of Time of Introduction of Legumes into Cassava on the Productivity of Cassava in Cassava-Legume based Intercropping Systems
Authors: Mansaray Augustine , Babatunde Karim Abdul , Yormah T. B. R. , Conteh Abdul Rahman , Mark Yila Kewoma
Published: April 2022

Background and Objective: The time of sowing component crops is an important management variable that can improve productivity and increase land equivalent ratio in intercropping systems. The study aimed to evaluate the effect of the time of introduction of legumes into cassava on cassava productivity.

Study Design: The experiment was a factorial randomized complete block design with three replications.

Place and Duration of Study: Field trials were conducted in 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 cropping seasons in three agro-climatic zones.

Methodology: The treatments consisted of seven cropping associations, two cassava architectures, two spatial arrangements of cassava, and two introduction times of the legume. The cassava was grown on flat land and the legumes were inserted in between the rows of the cassava. The introduction of the legumes were done in two stages, namely: simultaneous introduction in which the cassava and the legumes were planted at the same time and late introduction in which, the cassava was introduced four weeks after the cassava was planted.

Results: The result shows that values for both yield and growth parameters of cassava were higher when the legumes were introduced four weeks after the establishment of the cassava. Also, the land equivalent ratios for both times of introductions were greater than one and were higher when the legumes were introduced four weeks after the establishment of the cassava.

Conclusion: For higher productivity of cassava in a cassava-legume-based intercropping system, the introduction of the legumes into the cassava should be delayed for at least four weeks after the cassava is established.
Investigating the Impact of Human Resource Management Practices on Organizational Performance: The Case of the Mboppi Baptist Hospital, Douala
Authors: Anthony Viyi Monjuh , Takwa Abonwi Chenaa , Teno Maclean Nkiemboupoh
Published: April 2022

The paper aims to investigate the impact of human resource management practices on organizational performance using the case of the Mboppi Baptist Hospital. Specifically, the study sought to examine the impact of a) compensation/rewards system, b) training and development, c) employee participation, and d) performance appraisal on organizational performance in Mboppi Baptist Hospital Douala. The random sampling technique was used to select 234 respondents for the study. Data was collected using a well-validated structured questionnaire. Collected data were analyzed using descriptive analysis of simple percentages presented in frequency tables, charts, means, and standard deviations, and inferential statistics were done with the aid of the linear regression analysis. The findings revealed that 53% of the performance of the Mboppi Baptist Hospital Douala is influenced by human resource management practices such as compensation/reward system, training and development, employee participation, and performance appraisal. The rest of the performance is affected by other causes. Compensation and rewards systems, training and development, employee participation, and performance assessment all have positive t-values of 3.74, 3.18, 2.56, and 2.78 respectively. The findings further revealed that the employees have a very high perception of the performance appraisal system in the Mboppi Baptist Hospital, but believe that the pay is not commensurate to the work they put in. The study equally revealed that all the four human resource practices investigated in this paper have a very significant relationship with organizational performance. The study recommends among others that the management of private hospitals and the Mboppi Baptist Hospital, in particular, should endeavor to link pay to performance. This type of compensation structure is known to ensure fairness, eliminate conflicts and tension, and propel employees to higher performance.
Effect of Growing Media and Nutrition on Establishment of Vanda coerulea Plantlets during Hardening
Authors: Pokhrel Himal , Paul Amitava
Published: April 2022

Vanda Coerulea is an endangered orchid species and also possesses high market value. Apart from in vitro multiplication techniques, there is a need for proper hardening management for in vitro derived plantlets. So, the present study was carried out to identify the best potting mixture along with best nutritional composition for establishment of plantlets. Well grown six months old in vitro grown plantlets with well-developed roots were selected for the study. Plantlets were removed from the culture medium and washed gently under running tap water, and the media traces from the roots were removed. Plantlets were then treated with Bavistin (0.1%) solution for 2 minutes and transferred to the potting medium. Five different compositions of sterilized potting medium viz. leaf mould, coco-chips, brick chips, sphagnum moss, and cocopeat were taken. Each composition of medium was formulated in 1:1:1 ratio comprising three media in one formulation. Spraying of four different compositions of inorganic nutrients NPK (0:0:0; 10:10:10; 20:20:20 and 30:30:30) were done in weekly interval @ 0.1%. It was observed that the highest average survival rate of plantlets (58.33 %,), highest plant height (6.85cm) and maximum number of leaves (6.33) were found in media comprising of leaf mould + sphagnum moss + brick chips. Similarly, NPK 20:20:20 shows better in terms of survival percentage of plantlets (41.66 %,), highest plant height (6.76cm) and maximum number of leaves (6.33). The interaction effect of leaf mould + sphagnum moss + brick chips with weekly spraying of NPK 20:20:20 shows better result in terms of survival percentage of plantlets (91.66 %,), plant height (8.40 cm) and number of leaves (7.33). These combinations of media and nutrition can be used for establishment and development of plantlets at hardening.
Prevalence and Correlation of Abnormal Atherogenic Cardiovascular and Ankle Brachial Indices with Predicted 10-Year Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Risk among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes in Central Uganda
Authors: Lumu William , Bahendeka Silver , Wesonga Ronald , Kibirige Davis , Mutebi Ronald Kasoma , Ssendikwanawa Emmanuel
Published: April 2022

Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of abnormal atherogenic cardiovascular indices, Ankle brachial index and their correlation with the predicted 10-year atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk (ASCVD) among type 2 diabetes patients in Central Uganda.

Methodology: Five hundred patients aged 40-79 were consecutively selected.  Socio-demographic data was collected with a pre-tested questionnaire. Physical and laboratory measurements were performed. Atherogenic cardiovascular indices such as Atherogenic Index of Plasma (AIP), Atherogenic Coefficient and Casteri Risk Index I& II were determined. Ankle Brachial Index (ABI) was measured. We used the revised Pooled Cohorts Risk Equations to quantify the 10-year atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk. The proportions and percentages of atherogenic cardiovascular indices, ABI and 10-year ASCVD risk were determined. Pearson chi-square correlation analyses were performed to determine correlation. Statistical significance was set at P<0.05.

Results: The prevalence of elevated AIP was 56.45%, Casteri Risk Index I 68.4%, Casteri Risk Index II 32.6 and Atherogenic Coefficient 64.8%. Low ABI of<0.9 was found among 25.4% while 0.6% had an ABI>1.3.Atherogenic cardiovascular indices significantly correlated with 10 year ASCVD risk with Casteri Risk Index I (r=0.185, P<0.001), Casteri Risk Index II (r=0.127, P=0.004), Atherogenic Coefficient r=0.186, P<0.001). AIP was positively but not significantly correlated with ASCVD risk (r=0.053, P=0.241). ABI negatively correlated with the ASCVD risk (r=-0.225, P<0.001). 

Conclusion: Prevalence of abnormal atherogenic cardiovascular indices and ABI was high. They correlated with the ASCVD risk. Atherogenic cardiovascular indices and ABI can be used to screen and manage ASCVD in our setting.
excavation of a medieval burgh ditch at East Market Street, Edinburgh
Authors: Lowther Jessica , Crone Anne , Haggarty George , McLaren Dawn , Robertson Jackaline , Walton-Rogers Penelope , Thomas Clare
Published: April 2022

In 2015 excavation works undertaken in preparation for a new hotel development at East Market Street, Edinburgh (NGR: NT 26242 73758), encountered the remains of a substantial ditch feature likely relating to previously excavated ditches in the medieval burghs of Edinburgh and Canongate. A substantial stratified artefact assemblage including both animal bone and ceramics was recovered and the waterlogged deposits in the base of the ditch also offered the opportunity for macroplant analysis. These waterlogged deposits afforded the preservation of artefacts including a textile garment, the first of its kind in the British Isles, and leather shoe soles boasting slender waists and turned out, pointed toes. These finds were both attributed to the 14th to 15th centuries, contributing to a vivid picture of the inhabitants of Edinburgh and Canongate in the medieval period. Analysis of both the artefact and ecofact assemblage revealed two phases of use, from the construction of the ditch in the late 12th–13th century to its eventual disuse in the latter half of the 15th century.
Excavations by Gogar Church, Nether Gogar, Edinburgh
Authors: Will Bob , James Heather F , Ballin Torben Bjarke , Ballin Smith Beverley , Bateson Donal , Gallagher Dennis , Jones Richard , Ramsay Susan , Smith Catherine
Published: April 2022

This report records the results of an excavation of a medieval settlement next to Gogar Church (NGR: NT 16827 72540) that was discovered within the construction corridor of the Edinburgh Tram line. The remains relate to the medieval village of Nether Gogar and date from the 11th to the 15th century, although later material was also recovered. The results of this work complement previous work on the site of Nether Gogar (Morrison et al 2009) and add to the growing evidence of medieval rural settlement in the Edinburgh area.
Bronze Age barrow cemetery and a medieval enclosure at Orchardfield, East Linton, East Lothian
Authors: Kirby Magnus , Anderson Sue , Clarke Ann , Cressey Michael , Ellis Clare , Hastie Mhairi , Johnson Melanie
Published: April 2022

Three ring-ditches, interpreted as a Bronze Age barrow cemetery, and a large ditched enclosure of likely medieval date were excavated at East Linton (NGR: NT 588 771) in advance of residential development. Cremation burials were recovered from all three of the ring-ditches, from their upper ditch fills and from a central pit in one of the ring-ditches. Also mixed into the fills were sherds of pottery, a few lithics, and two stone grinders/rubbers. A large pit close to one of the ring-ditches, which may have been used to dispose of the residue ash from one or more funeral pyres, was also excavated and provides an insight into the wider ritual activity taking place on or near the site. To the east of the barrow cemetery, a meandering length of ditch is considered to be medieval in date and probably forms an enclosure. Radiocarbon determinations produced Middle Bronze Age dates for samples of cremated human bone, with charred grain producing Iron Age and medieval dates.
Notes: (8) Two Cists at Golspie, Sutherland
Authors: Mackenzie John , Woodham Anthony A
Published: April 2022

During the removal of sand from a quarry approximately 100 yds. due W. (mag.) from Golspie school in September 1956, a cist of unusual construction was exposed containing a contracted skeleton. After examination by Professor R. D. Lockhart, quarrying was restarted only to halt with the discovery of a second cist approximately 6 ft. from the first. This cist was somewhat more orthodox in form, and the contents were removed by Dr I. D. Pennie of Golspie. Subsequently the writer visited the site and examined the surrounding area for further burials without success. Quarrying has continued since then but nothing more has been discovered.
Influence of Machining Parameters on Machinability of Inconel 718—A Review
Authors: Mustafa Ghulam , Anwar Muhammad Tuoqeer , Ahmed Arslan , Nawaz Muhammad , Rasheed Tahir
Published: April 2022

Ni‐based superalloy Inconel 718 is renowned owing to its admirable physical and mechanical properties at higher temperatures. Various industries including aerospace and automobile are using this superalloy in gas turbines and other components. Meanwhile, the excellent mechanical properties (high strength and hardness) of Inconel 718 cause poor machined surface integrity and machinability, which have always been an interesting task in the machining of superalloys. Countless studies are performed on the machinability of Inconel 718 defining optimal cutting parameters and for the advancement of a better understanding of superalloys’ machining like Inconel 718. Herein, a comprehensive review regarding the machining trends of Inconel 718 is offered and the causes of the various symbolic machining parameters are cited on numerous machinability features concerning the modern literature and the earlier one. The machining characteristics including cutting tool wear, cutting forces, and surface reliability such as microhardness, surface roughness, and residual stresses are reviewed.
Bioinspired Soft Multistate Resistive Memory Device Based on Silk Fibroin Gel for Neuromorphic Computing
Authors: Chougale Mahesh Y. , Khan Muhammad Umair , Kim Jungmin , Shaukat Rayyan Ali , Saqib Qazi Muhammad , Patil Swapnil R. , Dongale Tukaram D. , Bermak Amine , Mohammad Baker , Bae Jinho
Published: April 2022

Brain‐inspired computation is a promising field toward the next generation of intelligent computing systems. To mimic the brain functions, this field requires devices that can support the goal of computing efficiency, size, and cost. Therefore, researchers are trying to fabricate soft and flexible devices using synthetically organic and inorganic materials like solid‐state or ionic liquids. Herein, a soft and flexible bioinspired neuromorphic computing device based on organic silk fibroin gel, which is robust under external forces, is proposed. Silk fibroin protein is composed of essential and nonessential amino acids. with special amount of positively charged glycine, alanine, which plays an essential role during ionic movement to perform neuromorphic computing. Detailed electrical characterization of the proposed (Cu/silk fibroin gel/Cu) discrete device confirms the synaptic behavior by applying different pulse amplitudes, pulse widths, and frequencies. In addition, the proposed device delivers stable performance during mechanical deformations. The analysis of the present results defines that the proposed device is a potential candidate for environmentally friendly wearable intelligent electronics.
Genetic divergence and cluster analysis for bulb yield and related traits in garlic (Allium sativum) accessions at Dorze, southern Ethiopia
Authors: Tesfaye Azene
Published: April 2022

Despite the benefits of garlic (Allium sativum L.) in human life, only a little amount of breeding effort has been done so far. The initial stages of a systemic breeding program include the collection and evaluation of genetic variability. As a result, understanding genetic divergence and cluster dispersion between accessions is a great way to improve future crops. This study was aimed to estimate the extent of genetic divergence across 28 Ethiopian garlic accessions using 11 agromorphological traits to identify parent lines for hybridization programs. The experiment was set up with a randomized complete block design with three replicates in Dorze, southern Ethiopia, during the 2017 main harvest season. The cluster analysis revealed the existence of four divergent groups, with the greatest distance among them being between Groups I and IV (D2 = 4.15), and the shortest distance being between Groups I and II (D2 = 2.93). To obtain accessions with high grain yield and early maturing, cross from Clusters I and IV and from III and IV were obtained. Parent material should be produced among clusters rather than within clusters for future hybridization breeding efforts.
Asymmetric Construction of All‐Carbon Quaternary Stereocenters via Organocatalytic α‐Hydroxymethylation of Malonic Diesters Using Aqueous Formaldehyde
Authors: Kanemitsu Takuya , Ozasa Eisuke , Murase Yuria , Sakaue Susumu , Miyazaki Michiko , Nagata Kazuhiro , Itoh Takashi
Published: April 2022

An organocatalyzed α‐hydroxymethylation of α‐monoalkyl malonic diesters using 37% aqueous formaldehyde (formalin) as a one‐carbon electrophilic unit to generate all‐carbon substituted quaternary stereocenters has been developed. In the course of our exploration of catalytic methodologies, a metal‐free cooperative catalytic approach with cinchonidine and squaramide co‐catalysts was found to improve both reactivity and enantioselectivity in this transformation. Our organocatalytic method represents the first example of an enantioselective α‐hydroxymethylation of a malonic diester. The enantioenriched α‐hydroxymethyl products could be recrystallized with high recovery, yielding optically pure materials. Moreover, to demonstrate the utility of this methodology, the all‐carbon substituted α‐quaternary stereogenic malonate was converted to both (S)‐ and (R)‐4,4‐disubstituted oxazolidin‐2‐ones without loss of optical purity.
Never Assume What Your Clients Know About Mediation and Arbitration
Authors: Blankley Kristen M. , Votruba Ashley M. , Bartz Logen M. , Pytlikzillig Lisa M.
Published: April 2022

The alternative dispute resolution revolution is certainly present in the U.S legal system. Many legal disputes are subject to mandatory mediation, whether by contract, statute, court rule, or court order. See, e.g., Ben Barlow, “Divorce Child Custody Mediation: In Order to Form a More Perfect Disunion?” 52 Cle. St. L. Rev. 499, (2004‐2005) (discussing mandatory mediation in the context of family cases); Michael Z. Green, “Proposing a New Paradigm for EEOC Enforcement after 35 Years: Outsourcing Charge Processing by Mandatory Mediation,” 105 Dick. L. Rev. 305 (2001) (discussing mandatory mediation of employment claims).
Government Agencies, In Search of Disputes
Authors: Samuel Adam
Published: April 2022

Normally, dispute resolution involves two parties in conflict with each other. But the United Kingdom's financial services regulators specialize in creating schemes where there is strictly speaking only one participant: the regulated firm that has broken their rules.
Taking the ‘MIC’: Questioning the European Union Rationale for Establishing an Investment Treaties Court
Authors: Barrocas Manuel P.
Published: April 2022

The European Union Commission (EC), after the 2009 entry into force of the Lisbon Treaty (available at https://bit.ly/34TUxpu) updating the European Union, acquired a new competence in the foreign investment field among other areas of law.
What's Next? Suggestions for the Future of Early Dispute Resolution Processes
Authors: Lande John
Published: April 2022

The alternative dispute resolution community always has aspired to innovate and improve traditional processes of dispute resolution. This was expressed in 1982 by former Chief Justice Warren Burger when he asked, “Isn't there a better way?” This certainly reflects the views of Early Dispute Resolution (EDR) proponents.
Atomically Dispersed Dual‐Metal Site Catalysts for Enhanced CO2 Reduction: Mechanistic Insight into Active Site Structures
Authors: Li Yi , Shan Weitao , Zachman Michael J. , Wang Maoyu , Hwang Sooyeon , Tabassum Hassina , Yang Juan , Yang Xiaoxuan , Karakalos Stavros , Feng Zhenxing , Wang Guofeng , Wu Gang
Published: April 2022

Carbon‐supported nitrogen‐coordinated single‐metal site catalysts (i.e., M−N−C, M: Fe, Co, or Ni) are active for the electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) to CO. Further improving their intrinsic activity and selectivity by tuning their N−M bond structures and coordination is limited. Herein, we expand the coordination environments of M−N−C catalysts by designing dual‐metal active sites. The Ni‐Fe catalyst exhibited the most efficient CO2RR activity and promising stability compared to other combinations. Advanced structural characterization and theoretical prediction suggest that the most active N‐coordinated dual‐metal site configurations are 2N‐bridged (Fe‐Ni)N6, in which FeN4 and NiN4 moieties are shared with two N atoms. Two metals (i.e., Fe and Ni) in the dual‐metal site likely generate a synergy to enable more optimal *COOH adsorption and *CO desorption than single‐metal sites (FeN4 or NiN4) with improved intrinsic catalytic activity and selectivity.
Gold Nanostars: Synthesis, Optical and SERS Analytical Properties
Authors: Becerril‐Castro I. Brian , Calderon Irene , Pazos‐Perez Nicolas , Guerrini Luca , Schulz Florian , Feliu Neus , Chakraborty Indranath , Giannini Vincenzo , Parak Wolfgang J. , Alvarez‐Puebla Ramon A.
Published: April 2022

Invited for this month′s cover are the collaborating groups of Vincenzo Giannini, at the CSIC, Spain, and the Technology Innovation Institute, Abu Dhabi, Wolfgang J. Parak, at the Universitat Hamburg, Germany and Ramon A. Alvarez‐Puebla at ICREA and the Universitat Rovira i Virgili, both in Spain. The cover picture shows the capability of the gold nanostars to optically detect and classify, through SERS, events in very complex samples as required, for example, in liquid biopsies where the tumoral circulating cells hide in the pool of normal cells More information can be found in the Review by V. Giannini, W. J. Parak, R. A. Alvarez‐Puebla and co‐workers.