bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Models and Implementation of Curriculum Development in Schools
Authors: Fatoni Mahfud Heru , Santoso Baron , Syarifuddin Hamid , Hanani Hanif
Published: September 2024

Curriculum development cannot be separated from various aspects that influence it. Various curriculum models have been developed by curriculum, education and psychology experts. This research aims to find a model for curriculum development in schools and its implementation. In this article, the author uses library research or what could be called qualitative research which obtains data from appropriate journals, articles and books. The research results found that in developing the curriculum, teachers can choose several models including the Tyler Model, Administrative Model, Grass Roots Approach Model, Demonstration Model, Beauchamp's System Model or Beauchamp Model, Roger's Model, Problem Solving Model and Taba's Inverted Model. The procedures for curriculum development include curriculum planning, curriculum organization, staffing and curriculum control. Meanwhile, curriculum implementation is the process of applying ideas, concepts, policies, in the form of practical actions, so that it has an impact, both in the form of changes in knowledge, skills, as well as students' values and attitudes. The success of curriculum implementation is also determined by communication about the implementation plan and the support of all resources in the implementation
Tradition Nabawiyyah Pedagogy: Shaping an Excellent Generation Through Education Based on QS. Al-Ahzab: 21
Authors: Althafullayya Muhammad Raffin , Akbar Ali
Published: September 2024

Based on QS Al-Ahzab verse 21, this research elaborates on the crucial role of Sunnah Nabawiyyah-Based Education in shaping individual character and potential. The focus lies on education as the primary pillar of formation, with Sunnah Nabawiyyah Pedagogy as the guide derived from the teachings of the Prophet. The objective is to analyze the impact of applying Sunnah Nabawiyyah Pedagogy within the educational system, emphasizing the development of an excellent generation. The importance of integrating Islamic values into education is a primary highlight, and this research attempts to detail how these values can be incorporated into the curriculum and daily educational practices. The study identifies obstacles in implementing Sunnah Nabawiyyah Pedagogy and proposes concrete solutions. By exploring the positive impacts of implementing Sunnah Nabawiyyah Pedagogy, this research aims to provide valuable contributions on how to shape an excellent generation through education based on Islamic values. Furthermore, this research is expected to serve as a robust scientific foundation for better educational policy development, ensuring the application of pedagogy in accordance with religious guidance. A literature study method is used to delve into the concept of Sunnah Nabawiyyah Pedagogy, encompassing categories such as the analysis of Islamic education literature, quality education literature, curriculum literature analysis, and the literature on the implementation of Sunnah Pedagogy. The results of this study are expected to provide deep insights into the contribution of Sunnah Nabawiyyah Pedagogy to quality Islamic
Mental Health Concept in Islamic Education
Authors: Huda Miftahul , Slamet Slamet
Published: September 2024

Mental health issues can pose a hindrance to the growth and development of students in the educational process and their pursuit of a future. Support from family, educational institutions, and the community is crucial. Unfortunately, currently, mental health service programs in Islamic educational institutions are not consistent, and there is no systematic management of mental health education based on Islamic principles, resulting in suboptimal early detection of mental health disorders. However, Islam places significant emphasis on human mental health. This article aims to explain the principles of managing mental health education based on Islamic teachings. The research method used is qualitative with a literature review approach. The principles of managing mental health in educational institutions involve both promotive and preventive aspects and engage various stakeholders, including guidance counselors, parents, medical professionals, psychologists, and psychiatrists. These principles encompass efforts to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health issues, implement sustainable programs, assist staff, students, and teachers in early detection of mental health disorders, foster two-way communication, provide mental health services, and enhance well-being. Additionally, Islamic teachings pay special attention to human mental health by promoting the purification of the soul with sincerity, a moderate approach, setting an example, maintaining obedience, avoiding sinful acts, and drawing closer to Allah.
NFT and Art Finance in Hong Kong: Overview and New Opportunities
Authors: Zhang Sheng
Published: September 2024

As the traditional art market faces the challenge of transformation under the wave of digitization, Hong Kong's role as a “super-connector” will continue to play a significant role in the era of fully embracing virtual assets. Utilizing both documentary and empirical research methods, the article reviews the history and connection between NFT and art finance events, aiming to explore the possibility of their mutual empowerment and the future outlook of their synergistic development in Hong Kong.
Effects of TED Talks on Students' Foreign Language Learning Emotions
Authors: Li Han
Published: September 2024

This study explores the effects of TED talks on students' foreign language learning emotions. It aims to investigate how TED talks influence emotions experienced during foreign language learning and how these emotions affect language learning outcomes. The study consists of two experiments, utilizing different methods and designs. Experiment One focuses on examining the effects of TED talks on the emotional experiences of language learners, while Experiment Two investigates the relationship between these emotions and language learning outcomes. The findings from both experiments contribute to a better understanding of the role of TED talks in foreign language learning and shed light on the potential benefits of incorporating TED talks into language teaching.
A Comparative Study of Hong Kong and Regional Cities
Authors: He Yuxuan , Shao Yiluo , Li Jiaxiu
Published: September 2024

From a desolate island to a window bridge between China and the world, Hong Kong has surpassed Singapore and South Korea step by step to become the third world financial center after New York and London. The article analyzes the economic development history of Hong Kong and compares it with Shenzhen, Singapore and Tokyo, analyzes it from the perspectives of historical geographic factors, GDP, national policies and changes in industrial structure, and draws out the differences between Hong Kong and the other three cities in terms of economic development, and analyzes the impacts that these differences bring to Hong Kong's economy, and predicts Hong Kong's development prospects.
A Study on the Path of Rural Sustainable Development in Henan Area-Xincai County
Authors: Wu You
Published: September 2024

This study explores the sustainable development path of rural areas in Xincai County, Henan Province, within the context of China's rural revitalization strategy. By analyzing key areas such as industrial upgrading, e-commerce development, and rural governance reform, the research reveals that Xincai County has gradually transitioned from traditional agriculture to a diversified modern industrial structure. The development of e-commerce has significantly increased farmers' incomes and promoted the modernization of the rural economy. However, challenges such as inadequate logistics infrastructure and a shortage of e-commerce talent remain significant obstacles to further development. Additionally, the integration of rural governance reform with poverty alleviation and industrial revitalization demonstrates that optimizing grassroots governance structures and enhancing social participation can effectively support industrial development and ecological protection, ultimately achieving comprehensive rural revitalization. This study not only provides theoretical support and empirical analysis for the sustainable development of Xincai County but also offers valuable insights for broader rural revitalization strategies in Henan Province and across China.
The Abolition of the One-Child Policy and Its Impact on Household Investment in Educating Girls in China
Authors: Li Danqing
Published: September 2024

Implemented in 1979, the One-Child Policy was a controversial measure aimed at controlling population growth but resulted in significant unintended consequences, including gender imbalances and economic strains. The policy's relaxation in 2016 to allow two children, and later up to three children, was a response to demographic and socio-economic challenges. This article examines the short-term impacts of these policy changes on educational investments for girls, noting increases in enrollment rates and evolving parental attitudes towards gender equality. It also considers the long-term effects, such as improved gender parity in education and its implications for workforce and economic growth. However, persistent cultural biases, regional disparities, and economic burdens continue to challenge progress. The findings suggest that while the policy shift has fostered greater educational investment in girls, comprehensive efforts are necessary to address enduring inequalities and ensure equitable educational opportunities across all regions.
Democracy and Prosperity: Analyzing Political Systems and Economic Results Through History
Authors: Wang Xinyao
Published: September 2024

Examining how democratic governance has impacted economic outcomes in various temporal and regional contexts, this article uses a historical lens to analyze the relationship between political democracy and economic progress. In order to investigate the fundamental mechanisms by which democracy influences economic policies and growth trajectories, this study uses a comparative historical analysis to focus on three key cases: post-war Japan, modern India, and the British Iron Revolution. By promoting improved governance, stimulating investment, and aiding in the creation of social capital, democratic institutions frequently promote economic development, according to the data. Nonetheless, the research also emphasizes how certain historical, cultural, and socioeconomic elements play a major mediating role in how well democracy fosters economic progress.
A Critical Analysis of Economic, Political, and Financial Determinants Influencing Location Choices of Foreign Direct Investments
Authors: Mo Hanran
Published: September 2024

This paper critically examines the determinants influencing the location choices of foreign direct investments (FDI), focusing on economic, political, and financial risks. The research explores how country risks—political stability, corruption levels, and democratic accountability—affect multinational corporations' (MNCs) decisions to invest. It also investigates financial risks, particularly exchange rate volatility, and its impact on FDI, finding that higher volatility deters investment. Additionally, the paper evaluates economic risks such as inflation, GDP, and unemployment rates, revealing their dual role in both attracting and deterring FDI. Using data from various countries, the study concludes that countries with stable governments, low corruption, democratic accountability, stable exchange rates, and healthy economic indicators are more attractive to FDI. This analysis helps MNCs make informed decisions about investing in different international markets.
Treatment of a lip defect in a patient with chorea-acanthocytosis using a combination of surgical and adjuvant onabotulinumtoxinA therapy: a case report
Authors: Han Man Wong , Park Ji-Ung
Published: September 2024

Chorea-acanthocytosis (ChAc) is an extremely rare neurodegenerative disorder characterized by movement disorders and acanthocytosis. Orofacial dyskinesia is a distinct symptom of this disorder that can lead to lip injuries and feeding difficulties. This paper reports the first case of a patient with ChAc presenting with a lip defect, who was managed with surgical and adjuvant onabotulinumtoxinA (BTX-A) therapy. A 43-year-old woman diagnosed with ChAc was referred to our clinic because of a 5× 5 mm lip defect resulting from orofacial dyskinesia. Wedge resection of the scar tissue was carried out, followed by reconstruction by suturing. Postoperatively, BTX-A injections were administered to ameliorate dyskinesia. Thirty units of BTX-A were injected into each masseter muscle, and 40 units were injected into the orbicularis oris muscle. At 1, 2, and 4 weeks after the injections, assessments were performed using the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale, and the patient’s impression of change was assessed using the Global Rating of Change Scale. Subsequent adjuvant BTX-A treatment yielded subjective and objective improvements in orofacial dyskinesia. In conclusion, lip reconstruction and adjuvant BTX-A injections were effective in treating lip defects associated with orofacial dyskinesia in patients with ChAc, which highlights the need for a multimodal treatment approach.
Jeu d’équilibre sur le récif
Authors: Gagné Natacha
Published: September 2024

Ce qui frappe en faisant l’ethnographie de la justice en Polynésie française, c’est la difficulté d’y faire vivre une justice de proximité. Cette difficulté n’est pas nouvelle. Elle fut soulignée à de nombreuses reprises au fil du temps dans les rapports sur le service judiciaire émanant de magistrats professionnels, d’administrateurs-juges et d’inspecteurs des colonies, ainsi que dans leur correspondance avec les autorités, documents repérés dans les fonds des Archives nationales d’outre-mer françaises, du Service du patrimoine archivistique et audiovisuel de la Polynésie française — Te piha faufa’a tupuna, et des sections détachées du tribunal de Première instance de Pape’ete. L’analyse de ces documents, qui ouvre une fenêtre sur les réalités quotidiennes du personnel de la justice, met en lumière trois raisons principales pouvant expliquer la situation, soit l’immensité du territoire polyinsulaire sur lequel il s’agit d’assurer une présence, le nombre limité de magistrats, et les difficultés pratiques rencontrées par ces derniers sur le terrain. L’analyse permet aussi d’explorer ce qui fut fait au fil du temps pour remédier aux obstacles rencontrés, et d’identifier une période charnière dans le rapport de la justice aux Polynésiens. Cette dernière débute à la fin des années 1950 et correspond à un moment de reconfiguration de la situation coloniale.
Bagne et indigénat aux origines de la psychiatrie de Nouvelle-Calédonie (1868-1946)
Authors: Soler Nathanaëlle
Published: September 2024

À partir d’un corpus d’écrits médicaux et législatifs, cet article retrace la fondation de la psychiatrie coloniale en Nouvelle-Calédonie à partir de 1868 jusqu’à la fin du régime de l’indigénat en 1946, pour montrer sa spécificité par rapport à l’aliénisme à portée universelle qui s’élaborait dans l’Hexagone et ses déclinaisons dans les autres colonies françaises. Il décrit comment les reconfigurations dans la situation coloniale influèrent sur la psychiatrie et favorisèrent l’invisibilisation des aliénés Kanak. La superposition des logiques sanitaires, pénales et de peuplement favorisa l’émergence d’un aliénisme de l’enfermement et de l’éloignement, visant à protéger la société coloniale d’une contagion morale, de celle des bagnards d’abord, puis de celle des travailleurs immigrés et indigènes ensuite. Ce travail de mise à la marge se déploya sur un espace, l’île Nou, où se trouvait le bagne et son hôpital, et s’appuya sur un régime juridique fondé sur les procédures d’exception permises par le contexte du régime pénal, de celui de l’indigénat et de l’épidémie de lèpre.
Le manuscrit de Luján, un catéchisme du labeur
Authors: Orantin Mickaël
Published: September 2024

De 1609 et 1768, les missions jésuites du Paraguay constituent une institution singulière au coeur de l’Amérique espagnole. Les Espagnols y sont interdits de séjour, la langue générale est le guarani et la production autorise leur autosuffisance, de sorte que l’espace missionnaire jouit d’une insularité relative vis-à-vis du reste de la colonie et pourrait être examiné comme laboratoire d’une modernité alternative. Si l’objectif premier des jésuites est l’évangélisation des Autochtones, celle-ci nécessite le développement de conditions matérielles propices à la conversion, c’est-à-dire de développer l’agriculture et l’artisanat. Le travail affecte de nombreuses institutions de la société missionnaire : la famille, l’économie, la protection sociale, l’identité et l’altérité, la technologie. Si le travail n’avait jusqu’ici pas été examiné en détail par l’historiographie, l’identification récente d’un manuscrit inédit monolingue guarani issu des missions permet de grandes avancées. Nous présenterons ici ses principales contributions à l’historiographie missionnaire ainsi que les toutes récentes avancées de la recherche qui découlent de l’émergence d’un nouveau champ fondé sur l’étude des documents coloniaux en langue guarani.
Human birth tissue products as a non-opioid medicine to inhibit post-surgical pain
Authors: Zhang Chi , Huang Qian , Ford Neil C , Limjunyawong Nathachit , Lin Qing , Yang Fei , Cui Xiang , Uniyal Ankit , Liu Jing , Mahabole Megha , He Hua , Wang Xuewei , Duff Irina , Wang Yiru , Wan Jieru , Zhu Guangwu , Raja Srinivasa N , Jia Hongpeng , Yang Dazhi , Dong Xinzhong , Cao Xu , Tseng Scheffer C , He Shaoqiu , Guan Yun
Published: September 2024

Pain after surgery causes significant suffering. Opioid analgesics cause severe side effects and accidental death. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop non-opioid therapies for managing post-surgical pain. Local application of Clarix Flo (FLO), a human amniotic membrane (AM) product, attenuated established post-surgical pain hypersensitivity without exhibiting known side effects of opioid use in mice. This effect was achieved through direct inhibition of nociceptive dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons via CD44-dependent pathways. We further purified the major matrix component, the heavy chain-hyaluronic acid/pentraxin 3 (HC-HA/PTX3) from human AM that has greater purity and water solubility than FLO. HC-HA/PTX3 replicated FLO-induced neuronal and pain inhibition. Mechanistically, HC-HA/PTX3-induced cytoskeleton rearrangements to inhibit sodium current and high-voltage activated calcium current on nociceptive DRG neurons, suggesting it is a key bioactive component mediating pain relief. Collectively, our findings highlight the potential of naturally derived biologics from human birth tissues as an effective non-opioid treatment for post-surgical pain. Moreover, we unravel the underlying neuronal mechanisms of pain inhibition induced by FLO and HC-HA/PTX3.
SRSF2 is a key player in orchestrating the directional migration and differentiation of MyoD progenitors during skeletal muscle development
Authors: Sha Rula , Guo Ruochen , Duan Huimin , Peng Qian , Yuan Ningyang , Wang Zhenzhen , Li Zhigang , Xie Zhiqin , You Xue , Feng Ying
Published: September 2024

SRSF2 plays a dual role, functioning both as a transcriptional regulator and a key player in alternative splicing. The absence of Srsf2 in MyoD + progenitors resulted in perinatal mortality in mice, accompanied by severe skeletal muscle defects. SRSF2 deficiency disrupts the directional migration of MyoD progenitors, causing them to disperse into both muscle and non-muscle regions. Single-cell RNA-sequencing analysis revealed significant alterations in Srsf2-deficient myoblasts, including a reduction in extracellular matrix components, diminished expression of genes involved in ameboid-type cell migration and cytoskeleton organization, mitosis irregularities, and premature differentiation. Notably, one of the targets regulated by Srsf2 is the serine/threonine kinase Aurka. Knockdown of Aurka led to reduced cell proliferation, disrupted cytoskeleton, and impaired differentiation, reflecting the effects seen with Srsf2 knockdown. Crucially, the introduction of exogenous Aurka in Srsf2-knockdown cells markedly alleviated the differentiation defects caused by Srsf2 knockdown. Furthermore, our research unveiled the role of Srsf2 in controlling alternative splicing within genes associated with human skeletal muscle diseases, such as BIN1, DMPK, FHL1, and LDB3. Specifically, the precise knockdown of the Bin1 exon17-containing variant, which is excluded following Srsf2 depletion, profoundly disrupted C2C12 cell differentiation. In summary, our study offers valuable insights into the role of SRSF2 in governing MyoD progenitors to specific muscle regions, thereby controlling their differentiation through the regulation of targeted genes and alternative splicing during skeletal muscle development.
Burden changes in notifiable infectious diseases in Taiwan during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Yang Ying-Fei , Chen Yu-Miao , Chen Si-Yu , Chiu Po-Hao , Chen Szu-Chieh
Published: September 2024

Background

This study aimed to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the disease burden of Taiwan’s notifiable infectious diseases (NIDs). We compared disease burdens between the pandemic and pre-pandemic year of 2020 (with non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs)) and 2010 (without NPIs), respectively, to understand the overall pandemic impact on NIDs in Taiwan.

Methods

Forty-three national NIDs were analyzed using the Statistics of Communicable Diseases and Surveillance Report by estimating the premature death and disability via different transmission categories, sex, and age groups. The study evaluated the impact of diseases by assessing the years lost due to death (YLLs), the duration of living with disability (YLDs), and the overall disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) by measuring both the severity of the illness and its duration.

Results

Taiwan recorded 1,577 (2010) and 1,260 (2020) DALYs per million population and lost 43 NIDs, decreasing 317 DALYs per million population. Tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS and acute hepatitis B/D were the leading causes of DALYs, accounting for 89% (2010) and 77% (2020).

Conclusion

Overall, this study provided the first insight of changes in disease burdens in NIDs between pre- and post-COVID-19 based on a nationwide viewpoint for further preventive measures and interventions to be focused on specific diseases by associated health administrations and policies.
Conservando una historia viva: Planificación de un Parque Patrimonial en el Paisaje de los olivos de Huasco Bajo
Authors:   , Brunet Marie Sophie
Published: September 2024

La historia de Huasco Bajo se remonta a la época precolonial, cuando el ser humano comenzó a trabajar la tierra mediante la agricultura, estableciendo así una conexión con el territorio. La introducción del olivo como especie arbórea en esta región se produjo con la llegada de los colonizadores españoles. En el año 1900 se estableció la primera gran plantación de olivos en Huasco Bajo, la cual ha perdurado desde entonces, generando una estrecha relación entre los habitantes y este árbol mediterráneo, así como todas las labores y técnicas asociadas a su cultivo. Pese a esto, el oficio olivícola se ha transmitido de generación en generación, forjando un imaginario en torno a un paisaje específico y contribuyendo a la percepción del territorio como un Paisaje Cultural.Actualmente, únicamente el casco histórico de Huasco Bajo ha sido declarado Zona Típica, sin incluir un polígono que abarque elementos patrimoniales significativos, como los componentes naturales, culturales y antrópicos que conforman el paisaje de olivos de Huasco Bajo.Además, se observa un abandono y deterioro del paisaje olivícola, debido a diversas causas, entre las que destacan la falta de una figura de protección y la poca rentabilidad económica que tiene el oficio olivícola.Por lo tanto, se propone la creación de un Parque Patrimonial que permita la puesta en valor y la preservación del Paisaje de los Olivos de Huasco Bajo, a través de un proyecto de Arquitectura del Paisaje.
A water balance approach to estimate fog water contribution to a relict forest in the coastal semi-arid region in Central Chile
Authors:   , PACHECO CANALES VALENTINA J.
Published: September 2024

La niebla marina a lo largo de la costa occidental de Chile, en la región semiárida y mediterránea, ejerce influencia en los patrones de vegetación costera y representa una fuente de agua significativa, aunque subestimada, para el balance hídrico de la cuenca. Aunque se ha sugerido que los vientos del sudoeste transportan la niebla marina tierra adentro, la comprensión de esta dinámica es limitada. Por ello, este estudio tiene como objetivo analizar la niebla costera en la costa de la región central de Chile, examinando su distribución temporal, contenido de agua y recolección, en relación con la presencia de bosques relicto. Se enfoca en un bosque relicto ubicado en la costa semiárida de Chile, a 3.5 km tierra adentro, con una altitud de 650 metros. Este bosque, dominado por Aextoxicon punctatum, sobrevive con menos de 200 mm de precipitación anual, lo que destaca la importancia crítica del agua de niebla. El enfoque metodológico implica un análisis del balance hídrico adaptado a las contribuciones de agua relacionadas con la niebla, considerando la precipitación, evapotranspiración, acumulación de suelo y entrada de niebla a diferentes escalas. Los hallazgos revelan que la niebla se presenta el 17% del tiempo y contribuye hasta el 75% a la evapotranspiración del bosque, con una capacidad de captura de niebla de hasta el 10.5%. Sin embargo, según los datos de sensores de humedad del suelo, la niebla capturada parece no penetrar profundamente en el suelo ni generar escorrentía. Se exploró la variabilidad de la eficiencia de captura de niebla del bosque con respecto a la elevación, el área de recolección y la evapotranspiración. Estos resultados resaltan la importancia del agua de niebla como fuente vital para la vegetación y enfatizan la necesidad de integrarla en evaluaciones más amplias para predecir mejor los recursos hídricos y conservar los ecosistemas.
Hepatoprotective and Anti-hyperlipidemic Effects of Ethanolic Extract of Terminalia arjuna in a High-fat-induced Hyperlipidemic Rat Model
Authors: Rahmat Sara , Mannan Afifa Binthe , Prottasha Mafruza Khanam , Shakil Faisal Ahmed , Shawon Somaya Jannat , Nafsan Md Navid Rahman , Chowdhury Md. Mustafiz
Published: September 2024

Herbalism is the use of herbs and herbal medicines to improve and preserve health, ward off illness, or cure existing conditions. It is possible to hear the terms "herbal remedy" and "herbal medicine" used interchangeably. This study examined the effects of an extract from Terminalia arjuna on the lipid profiles of rats suffering from hyperlipidemia due to a high-fat diet. In terms of liver function, the SGPT and SGOT levels were statistically significant (p<0.05) in groups 5 and 6, when the doses were 600 mg/kg and 900 mg/kg, respectively. Groups 4, 5, and 6 showed significantly higher levels of creatinine (p<0.05) during the renal function test. A mixed high-fat diet was administered to the groups at dosages of 300, 600, and 900 mg/kg, respectively. However, there were no statistically significant outcomes from the urea investigation. The levels of HDL were shown to be significantly affected (p<0.05) by the dosages of high fat and extract given to groups 5 and 6, respectively, when it came to HDL and LDL. The examination of total cholesterol and triglycerides yielded no statistically significant results. The main goal of this study is to find out what happens to the lipid profile of hyperlipidemic albino rats when they are given an ethanolic T. arjuna extract. In rat models, the present investigation demonstrated that T. arjuna exerted a hyperlipidemic effect by substantially raising cholesterol levels. The plant's ability to protect the heart is due to its bioactive components, which include tannins, flavonoids, and phenolics. We need to do further processing on the ethanolic extract of T. arjuna to understand how certain biologically active principles function.
Probability Distribution Analysis of Annual Maximum Precipitation in the Niger Delta: A Critical Step towards Effective Flood Risk Management
Authors: Mbachu Ikechukwu C.
Published: September 2024

Aims: The study aimed to analyze historical maximum precipitation data from seven cities in the Niger Delta to assess vulnerability to extreme rainfall events, identify optimal probability distribution models for future predictions, and provide insights for flood risk management strategies.
Study Design: This is a retrospective analytical study based on historical precipitation data.
Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted across seven major cities in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria, utilizing data collected over several decades.
Methodology: Historical maximum precipitation data were statistically analyzed to determine the best-fit probability distribution models. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov (KS) test and Mean Squared Prediction Error (MSPE) were used to validate the suitability of distributions, including Log-Normal, Normal, Log-Pearson III, and Generalized Extreme Value (GEV) for each city. Return periods of 10, 25, 50, and 100 years were calculated to predict future precipitation trends and assess flood risks.
Results: Significant variations in annual maximum precipitation were observed across the cities, with Calabar recording the highest peak at 4062.7mm. The Log-Normal distribution was the best fit for Akure and Calabar, while the Normal distribution best described rainfall in Benin City. Log-Pearson III was optimal for Owerri, Umuahia, and Uyo, and GEV best fitted Port Harcourt’s data. High P-values (>0.87) indicated good model fits across the cities. Return period analysis suggested greater risks of extreme precipitation events in coastal cities like Calabar and Port Harcourt.
Conclusion: The study underscores the importance of tailored, city-specific flood management strategies in the Niger Delta to mitigate the impact of extreme rainfall events, particularly in the face of climate change.
Crystal structure of human dendritic cell inhibitory receptor C‐type lectin domain reveals the binding mode with N‐glycan
Authors: Nagae Masamichi , Ikeda Akemi , Hanashima Shinya , Kojima Takumi , Matsumoto Naoki , Yamamoto Kazuo , Yamaguchi Yoshiki
Published: March 2016

Human dendritic cell inhibitory receptor (DCIR) is a C‐type lectin receptor expressed in classical dendritic cells and accepts several oligosaccharide ligands including N‐glycans. Here, we report the crystal structures of human DCIR C‐type lectin domains in the absence and presence of a branched N‐glycan unit. The domain has a typical C‐type lectin fold and two bound calcium ions. In the ligand‐bound form, the disaccharide unit (GlcNAcβ1‐2Man) acceptably fits the electron density map, indicating that it forms the main epitope. The recognition of the nonterminal N‐glycan unit explains the relatively broad specificity of this lectin.
Exome sequencing reveals a novel CWF19L1 mutation associated with intellectual disability and cerebellar atrophy
Authors: Evers Christina , Kaufmann Lilian , Seitz Angelika , Paramasivam Nagarajan , Granzow Martin , Karch Stephanie , Fischer Christine , Hinderhofer Katrin , Gdynia Georg , Elsässer Michael , Pinkert Stefan , Schlesner Matthias , Bartram Claus R. , Moog Ute
Published: March 2016

Intellectual disability (ID) with cerebellar ataxia comprises a genetically heterogeneous group of neurodevelopmental disorders. We identified a homozygous frameshift mutation in CWF19L1 (c.467delC; p.(P156Hfs*33)) by a combination of linkage analysis and Whole Exome Sequencing in a consanguineous Turkish family with a 9‐year‐old boy affected by early onset cerebellar ataxia and mild ID. Serial MRI showed mildly progressive cerebellar atrophy. Absent C19L1 protein expression in lymphoblastoid cell lines strongly suggested that c.467delC is a disease‐causing alteration. One further pregnancy of the mother had been terminated at 22 weeks of gestation because of a small cerebellum and agenesis of corpus callosum. The homozygous CWF19L1 variant was also present in the fetus. Postmortem examination of the fetus in addition showed unilateral hexadactyly and vertebral malformations. These features have not been reported and may represent an expansion of the CWF19L1‐related phenotypic spectrum, but could also be due to another, possibly autosomal recessive disorder. The exact function of the evolutionarily highly conserved C19L1 protein is unknown. So far, homozygous or compound heterozygous mutations in CWF19L1 have been identified in two Turkish siblings and a Dutch girl, respectively, affected by cerebellar ataxia and ID. A zebrafish model showed that CWF19L1 loss‐of‐function mutations result in abnormal cerebellar morphology and movement disorders. Our report corroborates that loss‐of‐function mutations in CWF19Ll lead to early onset cerebellar ataxia and (progressive) cerebellar atrophy. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
White matter hyperintensities are a core feature of Alzheimer's disease: Evidence from the dominantly inherited Alzheimer network
Authors: Lee Seonjoo , Viqar Fawad , Zimmerman Molly E. , Narkhede Atul , Tosto Giuseppe , Benzinger Tammie L.S. , Marcus Daniel S. , Fagan Anne M. , Goate Alison , Fox Nick C. , Cairns Nigel J. , Holtzman David M. , Buckles Virginia , Ghetti Bernardino , McDade Eric , Martins Ralph N. , Saykin Andrew J. , Masters Colin L. , Ringman John M. , Ryan Natalie S. , Förster Stefan , Laske Christoph , Schofield Peter R. , Sperling Reisa A. , Salloway Stephen , Correia Stephen , Jack Clifford , Weiner Michael , Bateman Randall J. , Morris John C. , Mayeux Richard , Brickman Adam M. ,   for the Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer Network
Published: March 2016

Objective

White matter hyperintensities (WMHs) are areas of increased signal on T2‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans that most commonly reflect small vessel cerebrovascular disease. Increased WMH volume is associated with risk and progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD). These observations are typically interpreted as evidence that vascular abnormalities play an additive, independent role contributing to symptom presentation, but not core features of AD. We examined the severity and distribution of WMH in presymptomatic PSEN1, PSEN2, and APP mutation carriers to determine the extent to which WMH manifest in individuals genetically determined to develop AD.

Methods

The study comprised participants (n = 299; age = 39.03 ± 10.13) from the Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer Network, including 184 (61.5%) with a mutation that results in AD and 115 (38.5%) first‐degree relatives who were noncarrier controls. We calculated the estimated years from expected symptom onset (EYO) by subtracting the affected parent's symptom onset age from the participant's age. Baseline MRI data were analyzed for total and regional WMH. Mixed‐effects piece‐wise linear regression was used to examine WMH differences between carriers and noncarriers with respect to EYO.

Results

Mutation carriers had greater total WMH volumes, which appeared to increase approximately 6 years before expected symptom onset. Effects were most prominent for the parietal and occipital lobe, which showed divergent effects as early as 22 years before estimated onset.

Interpretation

Autosomal‐dominant AD is associated with increased WMH well before expected symptom onset. The findings suggest the possibility that WMHs are a core feature of AD, a potential therapeutic target, and a factor that should be integrated into pathogenic models of the disease. Ann Neurol 2016;79:929–939
Neurology training in sub‐Saharan Africa: A survey of people in training from 19 countries
Authors: Mateen Farrah J. , Clark Sarah J. , Borzello Mia , Kabore Jean , Seidi Osheik
Published: March 2016

Objective

To provide a comprehensive understanding of neurology training from the sub‐Saharan African perspective.

Methods

A 40‐question survey was distributed to attendees of the 7th annual sub‐Saharan African neurology teaching course in Khartoum, Sudan (2015). Themes included the student body, faculty, curriculum, assessment and examinations, technology, and work hours and compensation.

Results

Of 19 responding countries, 10 had no formal neurology training programs; Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Republic of the Congo, and Mozambique had an adult neurology program; Ethiopia, Madagascar, Nigeria, Senegal, and South Africa had adult and pediatric neurology programs (training duration range = 3–6 years). There was a median of 2.5 full‐time neurologists on the teaching faculty at the respondents' training institutions (neurologists on‐faculty:in‐country ratio = 0.48), with the lowest ratios in Sudan and Nigeria. Neurology was perceived to be a competitive specialty for entrance in 57% of countries, with 78% of respondents reporting a requisite entrance examination. Ninety‐five percent had access to a personal smartphone, 62% used the Internet more than occasionally, and 60% had access to online neurology journals. The average number of weekly work hours was 51 (range = 40–75), and average monthly salary among those earning income was 1,191 USD (range = 285–3,560). Twenty percent of respondents reported paying for training. The most common barriers to neurology postgraduate education were few training programs and lack of training in neurodiagnostic tests. Among 17 reporting countries, there is an estimated average of 0.6 neurologists per million people.

Interpretation

Neurology training programs in sub‐Saharan Africa are relatively limited in number and have several unmet needs including a small cadre of faculty and an opportunity to standardize curricula and financing of programs. Ann Neurol 2016;79:871–881
Surface modification of polypropylene by the entrapping method using the short‐chained stearyl‐alcohol poly(ethylene oxide) ether modifier
Authors: Guo Haofei , Huang Juexin , Ye Yuansong , Huang Jian , Wang Xiaolin
Published: March 2016

On the basis of the short‐chained modifier of stearyl‐alcohol poly(ethylene oxide) ether (AEO), an entrapping modification was carried out on the polypropylene (PP) surface for hydrophilic improvement. A swelling layer was confirmed locating in the amorphous region on the PP surface, from which the modifiers could penetrate into the surface. The AEO‐8 modifier achieved the optimal hydrophilic modification on the surface with a contact angle of 20.6° and modifier coverage of 19.2%. A microphase separation was speculated to occur between the poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) chain of AEO and the PP substrate in the entrapping surface, after which surface‐enriched PEO chains could improve surface hydrophilicity, simultaneously, reserved stearyl chains in the surface could approach modifier fixation. Water immersion durability of the modified surface could be improved by establishing a covalent linkage in the surface‐fixed structure. This work gives more comprehensive insights in the entrapping modification on the semi‐crystalline PP surface based on the short‐chained and block modifier. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43607.
Chiral Phosphorus–Olefin Ligands for the RhI‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Addition of Aryl Boronic Acids to Electron‐Deficient Olefins
Authors: Chen Qian , Li Liang , Zhou Guangli , Ma Xiaoli , Zhang Lu , Guo Fang , Luo Yi , Xia Wujiong
Published: March 2016

New chiral phosphorus–olefin hybrid ligands derived from the rigid “privileged” l‐proline have been conveniently prepared and applied in the rhodium‐catalyzed asymmetric arylation of electron‐deficient olefins with arylboronic acids at room temperature; this reaction provides the desired products in excellent yields and high enantioselectivities. The origin of observed stereoselectivity has been investigated by density functional theory (DFT) calculations.
Generation of Hydroxyl Radicals in the Reaction of Dihydrogen with AuNbO4+ Cluster Cations
Authors: Jiang Li‐Xue , Li Xiao‐Na , Li Hai‐Fang , Zhou Zhen‐Xun , He Sheng‐Gui
Published: March 2016

A molecular‐level insight into the nature of reactive oxygen species involved in dihydrogen (H2) dissociation is of great importance to understand gold catalysis. In this study, laser ablation generated and mass‐selected AuNbO4+ oxide cluster cations could dissociate H2 in an ion‐trap reactor. The reaction has been characterized by time‐of‐flight mass spectrometric experiments and density functional calculations. The lowest energy isomer of AuNbO4+ contains two lattice oxygen (O2−) and one superoxide (O2.−) species. The gold atom anchors the H2 molecule in the first step and then delivers one hydrogen atom to the O2− ion in H2 dissociation. At the same time, O2.− is reduced into a peroxide unit that can accept the second hydrogen atom of H2 with the generation of a hydroxyl radical as the main product. In this study, the important roles of the O2.− unit in the dissociation of H2 have been identified.
Fabrication of Nitrogen‐Doped Mesoporous‐Carbon‐Coated Palladium Nanoparticles: An Intriguing Electrocatalyst for Methanol and Formic Acid Oxidation
Authors: Ray Chaiti , Dutta Soumen , Sahoo Ramkrishna , Roy Anindita , Negishi Yuichi , Pal Tarasankar
Published: March 2016

Inspired by the attractive catalytic properties of palladium and the inert nature of carbon supports in catalysis, a concise and simple methodology for in situ nitrogen‐doped mesoporous‐carbon‐supported palladium nanoparticles (Pd/N‐C) has been developed by carbonizing a palladium dimethylglyoximate complex. The as‐synthesized Pd/N‐C has been exfoliated as a fuel cell catalyst by studying the electro‐oxidation of methanol and formic acid. The material synthesized at 400 °C,namely, Pd/N‐C‐400,exhibitssuperior mass activity and stability among catalysts synthesized under different carbonization temperaturesbetween300 and 500 °C. The unique 1D porous structure in Pd/N‐C‐400 helps better electron transport at the electrode surface, which eventually leads to about five times better catalytic activity and about two times higher stability than that of commercial Pd/C. Thus, our designed sacrificial metal–organic templatedirected pathway becomes a promising technique for Pd/N‐C synthesis with superior catalytic performances.
Exploring Coordination Modes: Late Transition Metal Complexes with a Methylene‐bridged Macrocyclic Tetra‐NHC Ligand
Authors: Altmann Philipp J. , Weiss Daniel T. , Jandl Christian , Kühn Fritz E.
Published: March 2016

A tetranuclear silver(I) N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) complex bearing a macrocyclic, exclusively methylene‐bridged, tetracarbene ligand was synthesized and employed as transmetalation agent for the synthesis of nickel(II), palladium(II), platinum(II), and gold(I) derivatives. The transition metal complexes exhibit different coordination geometries, the coinage metals being bound in a linear fashion forming molecular box‐type complexes, whereas the group 10 metals adapt an almost ideal square planar coordination geometry within the ligand's cavity, resulting in saddle‐shaped complexes. Both the AgI and the AuI complexes show ligand‐induced metal–metal contacts, causing photoluminescence in the blue region for the gold complex. Distinct metal‐dependent differences of the coordination behavior between the group 10 transition metals were elucidated by low‐temperature NMR spectroscopy and DFT calculations.
Films Consisting of Innumerable Tapered Nanopillars of Mesoporous Silica for Universal Antireflection Coatings
Authors: Miyata Hirokatsu , Kitamura Shin , Watanabe Masatoshi , Takahashi Masahiko
Published: March 2016

Films with a fine structure consisting of innumerable nanopillars of mesoporous silica (MPS) are formed by a reactive ion etching process with a fluorine‐containing gas. Each nanopillar has a tapered shape with a uniform height, which effectively suppresses reflection by the formation of an ideal graded refractive index structure. The nanopillars are spontaneously formed under low‐pressure conditions, wherein locally deposited Al−F compounds, originating from an alumina plate in the etching chamber, work as a fine etching mask. The high etching rate of the MPS film allows a very high aspect ratio of the nanopillars. The refractive index of the MPS nanopillars can be universally tuned by a controlled incorporation of TiO2 into the mesopores, which results in effective reduction of reflectance on a given substrate. The outstanding antireflection performance is experimentally demonstrated for glass substrates with a wide refractive index range.
Laser power dependence of mechanoluminescence in metals
Authors: Sonwane V. D. , Gour Anubha S. , Jha Piyush
Published: March 2016

Mechanoluminescence (ML) glow is produced on the back side when the front of a metal sample is irradiated with infrared Nd:YAG laser pulses. An incident laser beam with a power density below the plasma‐flare onset threshold causes a rise in temperature in the studied metal. As the incident laser power density increases, the intensity of the ML glow signal also increases. On the basis of the laser power density‐induced temperature, an expression is derived for the temperature‐induced thermal stress. An expression is derived for the correlation between thermal stress and laser power density, which indicates that the temperature‐induced thermal stress is directly related to the incident laser power density. In the region of plastic deformation, temperature‐induced thermal stress is related to the strain and, consequently, to the emitted ML intensity. Finally, an expression is derived for the laser power dependence of the ML intensity, and good agreement is found between the theoretical and experimental results. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Shuttle‐like Porous Carbon Rods from Carbonized Metal–Organic Frameworks for High‐Performance Capacitive Deionization
Authors: Xu Xingtao , Li Jinliang , Wang Miao , Liu Yong , Lu Ting , Pan Likun
Published: March 2016

One of the most challenging issues in developing capacitive deionization (CDI) technologies is the rational design and synthesis of active electrode materials with favorable morphologies and high surface areas. Here, for the first time, shuttle‐like porous carbon rods (sPCRs) were prepared through a high temperature pyrolysis step and a subsequent etching step by using rod‐like metal–organic frameworks, MIL‐88 (Fe), as the precursor. The correlation between the carbonization temperature of sPCRs and their electrosorption performance was investigated, and it was found that, owing to their unique shuttle‐like rod structure and high specific surface area, sPCRs obtained at 900 °C exhibit a superior electrosorption capacity of 16.2 mg g−1 with excellent cycling stability, showing that sPCRs could be a promising electrode material for highly efficient CDI.