bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impaired coagulation parameters in early RA are restored by effective antirheumatic therapy: a prospective pilot study
Authors: Dijkshoorn Bas , Hansildaar Romy , Vedder Daisy , Soutari Nida , Rudin Anna , Nordström Dan , Gudbjornsson Bjorn , Lend Kristina , Uhlig Till , Haavardsholm Espen A , Grondal Gerdur , Hetland Merete Lund , Heiberg Marte Schrumpf , Østergaard Mikkel , Hørslev-Petersen Kim , Lampa Jon , van Vollenhoven Ronald F , Antovic Aleksandra , Nurmohamed Michael T
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To assess the effect of treatment on haemostatic parameters in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

Patients with newly diagnosed RA started methotrexate and were randomised to additional conventional treatment, certolizumab pegol, abatacept or tocilizumab. Several biomarkers for haemostasis were analysed including parameters of the two global haemostatic assays—overall haemostatic potential (OHP) and endogenous thrombin potential (ETP), as well as single haemostatic factors—fibrinogen, prothrombin fragment 1+2 (F1+2), D-dimer, thrombin activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor (TAFI) and clot lysis time (CLT) in 24 patients at baseline, 12 and 24 weeks after the start of the treatment.

Results

At baseline, patients had elevated levels of the following biomarkers compared with reference values: fibrinogen, F1+2, D-dimer and parameters of the two global haemostatic assays, that is, ETP and OHP. After 24 weeks we observed a significant reduction in F1+2 (p<0.01), fibrinogen (p<0.01), D-dimer (p<0.01), OHP (p<0.01), ETP (p<0.01), CLT (p<0.01), TAFI (p<0.01) and an increase of OFP (p<0.01). Tocilizumab treatment resulted in the most significant reduction of global haemostatic assays after 24 weeks, that is, a reduction of OHP 73% (p<0.01) compared with certolizumab pegol arm 32% (p<0.01), abatacept arm 24% (p=0.25) or conventional treatment arm 7% (p=0.66).

Conclusion

Newly diagnosed RA patients have enhanced coagulation activation and impaired fibrinolysis as demonstrated by our results. Effective antirheumatic treatments during the first 24 weeks after diagnosis improved this haemostatic imbalance, with prominent effects of biological drugs and especially tocilizumab, compared with conventional treatment.
Synovitis scoring in hand osteoarthritis with ultrasonography: the performance of the Global OMERACT/EULAR Ultrasound Synovitis Score (GLOESS) is comparable to synovial thickening alone
Authors: van der Meulen Coen , Kortekaas Marion C , D’Agostino Maria Antonietta , Kroon Féline P B , Rosendaal Frits R , Kloppenburg Margreet
Published: December 2024

Background

Inflammation is increasingly recognised as a treatment target in hand osteoarthritis, and therefore correct measurement of local inflammation is essential. This study aimed to assess ultrasound scoring of synovitis and the additional value of the Global OMERACT/EULAR Ultrasound Synovitis Score (GLOESS) in hand osteoarthritis.

Methods

Data from the randomised, double-blinded Hand Osteoarthritis Prednisolone Efficacy (HOPE) trial were used. The HOPE trial included patients with painful, inflammatory hand OA, treated with prednisolone or placebo (1:1). Ultrasound was performed in 30 hand joints at weeks 0, 6 and 14. Effusion, synovial thickening and Doppler signal were measured, the GLOESS was calculated from the latter two. Joint tenderness on palpation was assessed semiquantitatively (0–3), soft swelling as present/absent. Changes in ultrasound scores, and their association with change in joint tenderness or soft swelling, were investigated using generalised estimating equations. Effect sizes were calculated.

Results

Of 92 included patients 79% were women, with mean (SD) age 63.9 (8.8) and body mass index 27.2 (4.6). Synovial thickening was the most prevalent. All ultrasound scores were strongly associated with joint tenderness and soft swelling cross-sectionally. There was no association of change in ultrasound scores with change in tenderness, but there was with change in soft tissue swelling. Synovial thickening and the GLOESS responded to treatment (effect size −0.39 (−0.72 to −0.07), −0.39 (−0.71 to −0.07), respectively).

Discussion

Various ultrasound scores were associated with joint tenderness and soft swelling. The GLOESS and synovial thickening were both responsive to treatment, but GLOESS was not superior to synovial thickening alone.
Does tocilizumab eliminate inflammation in GCA? A cohort study on repeated temporal artery biopsies
Authors: Ricordi Caterina , Marvisi Chiara , Macchioni Pierluigi , Boiardi Luigi , Cavazza Alberto , Croci Stefania , Bonacini Martina , Malchiodi Giuseppe , Durmo Rexhep , Versari Annibale , Mancuso Pamela , Giorgi Rossi Paolo , Muratore Francesco , Salvarani Carlo
Published: December 2024

Background

Vascular inflammation persists in temporal artery biopsy (TAB) of giant cell arteritis (GCA) patients even after prolonged glucocorticoid (GC) therapy. We aimed to evaluate the histological impact of adding tocilizumab (TCZ) to GCs.

Methods

We enrolled all consecutive GCA patients with an inflammed TAB at diagnosis who were treated with TCZ and GCs for ≥6 months and followed from December 2017 to December 2023. Within 2 weeks, all patients underwent a second TAB, positron emission 18-fluorodeoxyglucose tomography/CT (PET/CT) and vessel colour Doppler ultrasonography (CDUS). Results were compared with pretreatment findings.

Results

13 patients repeated TAB after a median TCZ treatment of 2.4 years (Q1–Q3: 1.2–3.9 years). The first TAB showed transmural inflammation (TMI) in 11/13 patients (84.6%), inflammation limited to adventitia (ILA) in one patient (7.7%) and small vessel vasculitis (SVV) in another (7.7%). On repeated TABs, five patients (38.5%) still showed some degree of inflammation. Among the 11 patients with initial TMI, 2 had ILA, 1 had TMI, 1had SVV and 1 had vasa vasorum vasculitis at the second TAB. Nine patients had active vasculitis at baseline PET/CT, and three (33.3%) still showed activity at the last PET/CT, with a relevant reduction in mean PET vascular activity score (−6.5; 95% CI 1.54 to 11.45; p=0.017). The repeated quantitative CDUS revealed altered parameters suggestive of vasculitis in temporal arteries in about one-third of the patients.

Conclusion

Our study, using pathological and imaging assessments, revealed that after TCZ and GCs, over one-third of patients still presented with vascular inflammation.
Barrow holographic dark energy: a path to reconstructing f(R, T) gravity
Authors: Ens P. S. , Santos A. F.
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we investigate one of the established methods for reconstructing modified gravity models from a dark energy model, with the aim of discovering relationships between these theories. In this study, we focus on the f(R, T) modified gravity theory, where R denotes the Ricci scalar and T represents the trace of the energy–momentum tensor. We employ Barrow’s holographic dark energy model, derived from fractal surfaces of black holes, to investigate the reconstruction process. The numerical results are subsequently presented for various infrared cutoffs, such as the Hubble horizon, future event horizon, and Granda–Oliveros cutoff.
Adoption of Artificial Intelligence and Its Impact on Competitive Advantage: Mediated by Knowledge Management
Authors: Yuan Daojun , Kim Jung Kwan , Gao Cong
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the impacts of artificial intelligence (AI) and knowledge management (KM) on the competitive advantage (CA) of enterprises. In particular, it delves into the mediating role of knowledge management in the relationship between artificial intelligence and competitive advantage. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) is employed to assess the relationships among the variables, with data drawn from a sample of 402 respondents in China. The survey findings reveal that the adoption of artificial intelligence significantly improves both knowledge management and the competitive advantage of enterprises; knowledge management not only directly impacts competitive advantage but also serves as a mediating variable in the relationship between artificial intelligence and competitive advantage. This mediating effect of knowledge management demonstrates how the acquisition, sharing and application of knowledge, propelled by artificial intelligence, can enhance competitive advantage over the long term. The findings of this study validate and extend the existing body of knowledge regarding the influences of AI and KM on enhancing organisational competitive advantage. It provides valuable insights for the strategic integration of artificial intelligence within a knowledge-driven framework, particularly within the context of Chinese enterprises. By addressing gaps in the related literature, it contributes to both the theoretical advancement and practical application of enterprise management.
On the Liouville–von Neumann Equation for Unbounded Hamiltonians
Authors: Lonigro Davide , Hahn Alexander , Burgarth Daniel
Published: December 2024

The evolution of mixed states of a closed quantum system is described by a group of evolution superoperators whose infinitesimal generator (the quantum Liouville superoperator, or Liouvillian) determines the mixed-state counterpart of the Schrödinger equation: the Liouville–von Neumann equation. When the state space of the system is infinite-dimensional, the Liouville superoperator is unbounded whenever the corresponding Hamiltonian is. In this paper, we provide a rigorous, pedagogically-oriented, and self-contained introduction to the quantum Liouville formalism in the presence of unbounded operators. We present and discuss a characterization of the domain of the Liouville superoperator originally due to M. Courbage; starting from that, we develop some simpler characterizations of the domain of the Liouvillian and its square. We also provide, with explicit proofs, some domains of essential selfadjointness (cores) of the Liouvillian.
Generalized Stochastic Integration and Financial Modeling
Authors: Floros Christos , Gkillas Konstantinos , Kountzakis Christos
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we establish a stochastic integral, relying on the order-complete vector lattices’ properties. This stochastic integral is alike to the Riemann integral on bounded real-valued functions. This integral’s properties provide stochastic integration of stochastic processes beyond integral, with respect to some Brownian motion. The Arrhenius equation, which is actually an essential equation in Physical Chemistry, does provide a capital transfer model between two assets in a specific portfolio. The Arrhenius equation is actually modified under this stochastic integral. The stochastic term of such a stochastic process is alike to the introduction of the “white noise” in stochastic integration, with respect to some Brownian motion.
Unleashing Asynchronous Learning: Fostering Engagement in the Digital Educational Landscape
Authors: Rabenn McKenzie , Brandt Sonja
Published: December 2024

This article offers a concise exploration of the profound impact of asynchronous learning on modern education. Delving into its core characteristics and benefits, the authors reveal how asynchronous learning offers flexibility, structured guidance, tailored content delivery, and opportunities for learner autonomy. Reflective practices and boundary-breaking interactions are key elements that enhance engagement and understanding. Real-world examples underscore its effectiveness.
Endothelial cell-selective adhesion molecule deficiency exhibits increased pulmonary vascular resistance due to impaired endothelial nitric oxide signaling
Authors: Buncha Vadym , Lang Liwei , Fopiano Katie Anne , Ilatovskaya Daria V. , Kapuku Gaston , Verin Alexander D. , Bagi Zsolt
Published: December 2024

Our study reveals a novel role for ESAM in contributing to the maintenance of pulmonary vascular resistance under normal physiological conditions. Employing mice with global genetic deficiency of ESAM and using isolated whole lung preparation, we show significant impairments in nitric oxide-mediated pulmonary artery function. In vitro cell culture studies demonstrate impaired fluid shear stress-induced cell alignment in human lung endothelial cells after siRNA-mediated ESAM knockdown.
The evolving concepts of KS-WNK1 effect on NCC activity
Authors: Chávez-Canales María , Gamba Gerardo
Published: December 2024

The field of the with-no-lysine kinases (WNKs) regulation of the thiazide-sensitive NaCl cotransporter (NCC) began at the start of the century with the discovery that mutations in two members of the family, WNK1 and WNK4, resulted in a condition known as familial hyperkalemic hypertension (FHHt). Since FHHt is the mirror image of Gitelman’s syndrome that is caused by inactivating mutations of the SLC12A3 gene encoding NCC, it was expected that WNKs modulated NCC activity and that the increased function of the cotransporter is the pathophysiological mechanism of FFHt. This turned out to be the case. However, experiments over the first years generated unexpected observations that confused the field. Although most has been clarified, one issue still under a certain level of controversy is the role of an isoform of WNK1 that is only expressed in the kidney, almost entirely in the distal convoluted tubule, known as KS-WNK1. In this work, we present an overview of how the knowledge about the physiology of KS-WNK1 evolved over the years and propose explanations to understand its role in renal physiology.
A case report of long-latency evoked diaphragm potentials after exposure to acute intermittent hypoxia in post-West Nile virus meningoencephalitis
Authors: Welch Joseph F. , Dale Erica A. , Nair Jayakrishnan , Davenport Paul W. , Fox Emily J. , Mitchell Gordon S.
Published: December 2024

A 42-year-old female with post-West Nile virus meningoencephalitis demonstrated long-latency diaphragmatic potentials evoked by transcranial and cervical magnetic stimulation following exposure to acute intermittent hypoxia that were not present at baseline nor in healthy subjects. Although the cause of long-latency responses is unknown, we discuss possible mechanisms whereby acute intermittent hypoxia could create unique effects on the diaphragm/phrenic motor system in individuals with a history of neuroinfectious disease.
Increased robustness and adaptation to simultaneous temperature and elevated extracellular potassium in the pyloric rhythm of the crab, Cancer borealis
Authors: Lee Margaret , Marder Eve
Published: December 2024

Multiple applications of high potassium saline to the pyloric rhythm of the crab, Cancer borealis show a history-dependent adaptation process that is enhanced at high temperatures.
Novel Pt (II) Complexes With Anticancer Activity Against Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Cells
Authors: Stefàno Erika , Rovito Gianluca , Cossa Luca G. , Castro Federica De , Vergaro Viviana , Ali Asjad , My Giulia , Migoni Danilo , Muscella Antonella , Marsigliante Santo , Benedetti Michele , Fanizzi Francesco Paolo
Published: December 2024

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly aggressive type of solid tumor that is becoming more common. cis‐[PtCl2 (NH3)2] (in short cisplatin or CDDP) has been shown to be effective in treating various cancers, including PDAC. However, the development of resistance to chemotherapy drugs has created a need for the synthesis of new anticancer agents. Platinum‐based drugs containing the bidentate ligand phenanthroline have been found to have strong antitumor activity due to their ability to cause DNA damage. In this study, we examined the ability of two Pt (II) cationic complexes, [Pt(η1‐C2H4OR) (DMSO) (phen)]+ (in short Pt‐EtORSOphen; R = Me, 1; Et, 2), to inhibit the growth and spread of BxPC‐3 PDAC cells, in comparison to CDDP. The length of the alkyl chain and its associated lipophilic properties did not affect the anticancer effects of complexes 1 and 2 in BxPC‐3 cells. However, it did appear to influence the rapid loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨM), suggesting that these complexes could potentially be used as mitochondria‐targeted lipophilic cations in anticancer therapy.
The Spin Voltage Enhancement in Si/YIG/Co, Fe Spin Hall Thermopiles
Authors: Kumpor Wimutti , Kuptapol Perawas , Wongjom Chalothon , Pongophas Ekkarat , Infahsaeng Yingyot , Maiaugree Wasan , Phumying Santi , Pattanakul Rungrueang , Horprathum Mati , Chananonnawathorn Chanunthorn , Piyasin Piyawat , Pinitsoontorn Supree , Ramamoorthy Harihara , Somphonsane Ratchanok , Pijitrojana Wanchai , Ummartyotin Sarut , Wongjom Poramed
Published: December 2024

Spin‐Hall thermopiles have been previously proposed as a means to enhance the spin Seebeck effect (SSE). However, the use of platinum (Pt) for spin detection drives costs high and proves an impediment for scalability. In this work, a cost‐effective spin‐Hall thermopile constructed from opposite spin‐Hall angle ferromagnets, cobalt (Co) and iron (Fe), is reported. The devices are fabricated using a standard sputter‐coated yttrium iron garnet (YIG) substrate that serves as the spin injector, and thermally evaporated Co and Fe strips that enable spin detection. When serially connected to form a (YIG/Co, Fe) thermopile structure, measurements indicate a significant enhancement of the spin voltage that results from the additive spin contributions of the opposite spin‐Hall angle ferromagnets and the anomalous Nernst effect (ANE) that they exhibit. The YIG/Co, Fe thermopile reported here offers a cost‐effective alternative to Pt‐based thermopiles and the possibility of large‐scale implementation to realize future thermoelectric generators.
Medication Literacy and Medication Self‐Management: A Cross‐Sectional Study in Hospitalised Patients (65+) With Polypharmacy
Authors: Mortelmans Laura , Gentizon Jenny , Dilles Tinne
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to examine the relationship between medication literacy and the degree to which patients are considered capable of medication self‐management, the factors influencing the strength of this relationship and the factors influencing a patient’s capability for medication self‐management. Between January and April 2022, a cross‐sectional survey was conducted on hospitalised patients (65+) with polypharmacy. Medication literacy was evaluated using the MEDication Literacy Assessment of Geriatric patients and informal caregivers (MED‐fLAG). The SelfMED assessment determined a patient’s capability for medication self‐management. The relationship between MED‐fLAG and SelfMED was explored with Pearson’s r. Moderation analysis was used to explore the factors influencing the strength of the relationship between both. Linear regression explored the factors influencing SelfMED scores. In total, 169 patients participated in the study. Patients considered themselves more capable of in‐hospital medication self‐management (8/10 rating) compared to nurses’ and physicians’ opinions (6/10 rating). Interactive medication literacy scored higher (mean = 3.0) than functional (mean = 2.9) and critical medication literacy (mean = 2.8). The more medication literacy skills, the more patients were considered able for medication self‐management by healthcare providers (r = 0.630, p < 0.001). Moderation analysis could not reveal any factors that significantly affected the strength of the relationship between both. Age, managing medication independently at home, the number of chronic conditions and medication literacy were significant predictors of a patient’s capability for in‐hospital medication self‐management. This study demonstrated a rather strong correlation between the results of the MED‐fLAG and the SelfMED assessment. Hence, SelfMED can be used as a stand‐alone first screening instrument to determine a patient’s capability for in‐hospital medication self‐management, without first assessing medication literacy. MED‐fLAG can provide valuable insights into the medication literacy of patients considered less capable of managing their medication, allowing medication information and interventions to be tailored to the patient.
Identification of Factors Influencing Donor‐Derived Cell‐Free DNA Levels up to One Year After Kidney Transplant
Authors: Mirza Ahmad , Gani Imran , Parvez Imran , Weaver Cari , Mulloy Laura , Kapoor Rajan
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Donor‐derived cell‐free DNA (dd‐cfDNA) in the peripheral blood of allograft recipients has shown to early identify allograft injury. In this study, we assessed the factors that influence the amount of circulating dd‐cfDNA during the first month postkidney transplant as well as its longitudinal trend.

Materials and Methods: A consecutive series of 98 adult kidney transplant recipients at a single center between July 2018 and January 2020 were included in this study. All demographic and operative details were collected for donors and recipients of the organ transplant. Median eGFR, dd‐cfDNA, and serum creatinine were calculated at 1, 2, 3, 6, and 12 month posttransplant. Descriptive statistics were used for patient demographics. Nonparametric comparisons of dd‐cfDNA cumulative distributions between dichotomized groupings were evaluated using Kruskal–Wallis or Mann–Whitney U tests.

Results: The median age of recipients was 54.5 years (IQR: 42.7–62.2). The cause of ESRD among recipients was hypertension (43%) and Type II diabetes mellitus (29%). Eighty‐two percentage of patients received a deceased donor allograft, 14% received a living unrelated allograft, and 4% received a living related allograft. Sixteen percentage of recipients experienced delayed graft function (DGF). Median creatinine level at 1 month posttransplant was 1.75 mg/dL (IQR: 1.34–2.26) and median eGFR at 1 month posttransplant was 49.6 mL/min/1.73 m2 (IQR: 35–65). The median dd‐cfDNA score at 1 month posttransplant for all recipients was 0.4% (IQR: 0.15–5.3). Donor sex was a statistically significant differential for dd‐cfDNA score. Recipients from male donors had a significantly higher median dd‐cf DNA score at 1 month posttransplant versus those who received a female kidney (0.57% vs. 0.28%, p < 0.01). Highest median score was recorded at the first month posttransplant (0.4%, IQR: 0.26–0.74), and a sustained downward trend was observed through Month 2 (0.19%, IQR: 0.17–0.31) and Month 3 (0.19%, IQR: 0.15–0.26). Correlation between 1‐, 2‐, 3‐, 6‐, and 12‐month posttransplant median dd‐cfDNA scores between deceased donor and living donor (LRD and LURD) cohorts was not statistically significant.

Conclusion: This study provides further insight into donor and recipient variables’ effects on dd‐cfDNA in the early posttransplant phase by analyzing a more diverse cohort of patients and adds to the knowledge around interpreting dd‐cfDNA scores with clinical correlation for posttransplant management.
Posterior Capsular Opacification and Glistening in Hydrophobic Monofocal Biaspheric Intraocular Lens Two Years After Implantation: A Case Control Study
Authors: Hervás-Ontiveros Ana , España-Gregori Enrique , Fresno-Cañada Carlos , Butrón-Ruíz Rodrigo , Cerviño Alejandro
Published: December 2024

Background: This study aims to analyze the prevalence and severity of posterior capsule opacification (PCO) and glistening in a new hydrophobic biaspheric monofocal intraocular lens (IOLs) 24 months after implantation.

Methods: By means of a ambispective, observational, case‐control design, a total of 297 eyes from 200 cataract surgery patients were included in the study (118 females and 82 males; mean age: 72.31 ± 9.87 years, ranging from 35 to 92) and examined at the Hospital Universitario y Politécnico la Fe, Valencia (Spain). Data corresponding to patients implanted with either Asqelio (Study IOL) or Clareon (Control IOL) monofocal IOLs at least 24 months prior to study visit were analyzed. Prevalence and intensity of PCO and IOL glistening were determined and graded for both groups by a single masked observer. Refractive outcomes by autorefractometry, visual acuity, and wavefront aberrations determined by ray tracing were also measured and compared.

Results: Prevalence of PCO in patients implanted with the Study IOL 24 months after implantation was 4.0%, lower than that for the Control IOL. Intensity of PCO in both groups was low. One lens in each group presented a Grade 1 glistening after 24 months from implantation. Differences in visual acuity between Study and Control Groups were not significant (p = 0.260 and 0.115 for UDVA and CVA, respectively). Residual spherical aberration was significantly lower in the Study Group than that in the Control Group (p = 0.007).

Conclusion: Prevalence of PCO was considerably lower for Asqelio IOL than for the Control IOL and reports available in the literature for other hydrophobic IOLs. Prevalence of glistening was minimal in both study and control IOLs.

Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04971863
Revealing the Preference Falsification in Russia
Authors: Zhdanov Andrew , Tseitlin Boris
Published: December 2024

In this study, the authors investigate the phenomenon of the influence of preference falsification in sociological surveys on socially controversial topics in the context of illiberal states. Based on the classical theories of individuals hiding their true views under the influence of public discourse and state policy, the authors test the hypothesis that in Russia the phenomenon of preference falsification affects the responses of citizens, forcing them to postulate more conservative values than those what they really profess. To confirm this hypothesis, the authors replicate the in-person World Values Survey with an online survey conducted via crowdsourcing and compare the results. The clarification of the obtained data is carried out using the Implicit Associative Test. The authors find correlated and predictable differences between results obtained online and those found in the WVS survey, which suggests that preference falsification strongly affects results of field sociological surveys and this effect is absent in surveys conducted online.
The Comparative Study of Prison Officers’ Self-Legitimacy and the Use of Force: Slovenian Experience in Different Periods
Authors: Hacin Rok , Meško Gorazd
Published: December 2024

In the past, scant attention has been devoted to the nature of relation between self-legitimacy and the use of force in the prison context. The current study focuses on a comparative examination of prison officers’ self-legitimacy and willingness to use force in two time periods. The data were drawn from national samples of prison officers in Slovenia collected in 2016 and 2022. The manova and regression models showed differences in self-legitimacy and its correlates in different periods, supporting the thesis on the unstable nature of legitimacy. Similarly, differences in correlates were identified in testing prison officers’ use of force in different periods. Self-legitimacy had a modest positive influence on the use of force only in one period. Overall, the findings highlight the importance of social context on prison officers’ self-legitimacy and use of force, as well as the complex nature of legitimacy and coercion in prison.
The Padroado Real in Kongo and the Prelude of the Capuchin Missio Antiqua (Sixteenth and Seventeenth Centuries)
Authors: Mastrogregori Giacomo
Published: December 2024

This article examines the role of the Padroado Real in shaping Portuguese influence over the Kingdom of Kongo, emphasising the complex interplay between religion, politics, and colonialism during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. Through the Padroado, the Portuguese Crown maintained control over the ecclesiastical structures of the African kingdom, using religion as a tool for political influence. The paper highlights Kongo’s persistent efforts to establish direct diplomatic relations with the Papacy, aiming to diminish Portuguese dominance over its Church. It also explores how this influenced Rome’s efforts to regain universal authority over the evangelisation process, which culminated in the creation of the Congregation of Propaganda Fide. Finally, it shows the Congregation’s immediate attempts to establish Capuchin Missio Antiqua in Kongo, whose foundation marked Propaganda’s first breach in the territories under the Padroado Real.
The Rise and Fall of a Forgotten Colony: Dutch Angola, 1641–1648
Authors: Herrendorf Florian
Published: December 2024

The conquest of Luanda by Dutch forces in 1641 marked the beginning of seven years of Dutch West India Company (WIC) rule over parts of Angola. In the historiography, this period is often treated as an interlude that only warrants mention because it ushered in a new phase of Portuguese domination. At the same time, the Company colony of Angola is usually labelled as a natural outgrowth of Dutch activities in Brazil, meriting little scholarly attention. By examining the reasons behind the WIC’s decision to capture Luanda and looking into the causes of the fall of Dutch Angola, this article will provide a long-overdue account of the history of this neglected territory and demonstrate the shortcomings of traditional explanations of the colony’s demise. As it turns out, local colonial mismanagement was at the root of Angola’s failure.
The Meinecke’s Archive at the Museum für Islamische Kunst in Berlin: Highlighting a Substantial Unpublished Source on the Mamluk Architecture in Cairo
Authors: Hesham Eman Shokry
Published: December 2024

A significant part of the unpublished archive of Michael Meinecke and Viktoria Meinecke-Berg in the Museum für Islamische Kunst in Berlin is about Historic Cairo, its monuments, and its urban context. This article aims to highlight its components and reflect on its potential as a rich source of photographic records and scholarly discussions for further research in the history of Islamic art and architecture. Focusing on the Mamluk era of the extended period this archive covers, the author shows several examples of the different ways in which this archive is relevant and can be used.
Nuṭq salīm: the Key Role of Correct Pronunciation in the Teaching of Arabic as a Foreign Language
Authors: Facchin Andrea
Published: December 2024

By examining theories and a select number of textbooks, the paper analyzes how scholars and educators of Arab origin have stressed the importance of correct pronunciation (nuṭq salīm or ṣaḥīḥ) in the Teaching of Arabic as a Foreign Language (TAFL) and partly in Arabic L1 education. In this light, the study examines where the concept of pronunciation accuracy has originated and discusses the main theoretical claims and practical applications formulated by a select number of scholars, representative of the scientific literature.
“Babylonish” Captivity of the African Church
Authors: Nwadialor Kanayo
Published: December 2024

Babylonish captivity of the African church is used in this paper as a metaphorical or symbolic phrase to describe the impact of European colonialism on the African church. African Christianity experienced a great upheaval during the period of colonization following the European partitioning of Africa in 1885. European missionaries often sought to Christianize African populations and used Christianity as a tool for control and cultural assimilation. This paper explores how colonial Christianity brought about religious, cultural, economic and political subjugation dubbed “Babylonish Captivity”; stripping Africans of their autonomy and independence, and forced them to adhere to foreign norms; and how this period of colonization shaped the African church; leading to the deconstruction of missionary paternalism; culminating in the call for a moratorium in 1971; and how this sought to reclaim the African Christian voice as a powerful form of liberation both in the political and religious landscape of the continent.
The Silent Warrior
Authors: Robinson W. Terry , Hughey Matthew W.
Published: December 2024

George Wendell Goodman (1901–1981) was an African American racial equality and civil rights activist and member of the Bahá’í Faith. Goodman held positions in the Urban League, Fisk University, the Red Cross during wwii, and across varied Black newspapers and radio stations, as well as being elected and appointed to positions across the American Bahá’í religious community. Despite these realities, little extant scholarship examines Goodman’s life, largess, and legacy, or, for the focus of this paper, how his racial and religious commitments were co-constitutive. Pulling from a diverse array of media accounts, archives, published material, and interviews, we thus aim to rescue an important figure in both Black civil rights and American religious history from relative obscurity and in so doing demonstrate how Goodman was, as the editors of the Washington Afro-American described him in 1941, a “Silent Warrior …. Because he has fought a consistent up-hill battle against great odds, and has succeeded, without fanfare.”
Digital Humanities and Ottoman Studies 2.0
Authors: Aladağ Fatma
Published: December 2024

Digital Humanities (DH) have revolutionized the way we approach historical and cultural studies by integrating advanced information technology, enriching our understanding of the humanities. This evolution is particularly evident in Ottoman studies, where DH tools have fostered a dynamic, analytical engagement with historical sources, moving beyond mere digitization to facilitate deeper, multidimensional analysis. This article examines the progress and current state of digital Ottoman studies, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and the transformative potential of digital methodologies. Through a critical review of existing projects and potential future directions, it underscores the significant methodological shift towards “Digital Humanities and Ottoman Studies 2.0,” emphasizing a more a deeper, analytical discourse of the Ottoman history. This shift not only challenges traditional research boundaries but also democratizes access to knowledge, offering new insights into Ottoman studies. The integration of digital tools in Ottoman studies exemplifies the broader impact of DH on historical research, suggesting ongoing innovations and a promising future for the field.
Choć ty siadłszy płacz! Dylematy badacza frazematyki północnokresowej
Authors: Marszałek Marek
Published: December 2024

Na przykładzie swoistej struktury typu choć ty siadłszy płacz Autor przedstawia problemy wynikłe w trakcie pracy nad sformalizowanym opisem frazematyki północnokresowej wyekscerpowanej z wileńskiej prasy i wydawnictw książkowych okresu 1949–1985, po czym prezentuje wycinek swoich badań poświęcony tej właśnie szczególnej strukturze. Wśród trudności wymienia m.in. brak zainteresowania badaczy frazematyką kresów północno- wschodnich, co skutkuje z jednej strony brakiem możliwości skonfrontowania stanowisk, z drugiej zaś dotkliwymi lukami w bazie materiałowej uniemożliwiającymi dokonywanie niezbędnych zestawień i porównań, wyznaczanie granic poszczególnych frazemów, precyzyjne ustalanie ich postaci formalnej i znaczeniowej, a także chronologii, zasięgu geograficznego, kręgu użytkowników. Braki te badacz musi uzupełniać na własną rękę, co bardzo opóźnia proces dochodzenia do rezultatów. Przeszkodą jest też ciągle niekompletny rejestr frazemów wschodniosłowiańskich i litewskich. Z kolei zastosowanie wobec całostki choć ty siadłszy płacz zasad opisu sformalizowanego doprowadziło  do wykrycia, że jest ona tylko jedną z konkretnych realizacji tekstowych struktury _i, choć _j. Badanie wykazało, że taką strukturę formalną mają liczne frazemy. W kartotece Autora znalazło się 31 takich jednostek. Każdą poddał analizie i przedstawił w formie osobnej metryczki w odpowiedniej grupie. Wykazał, że wszystkie mają wzorce w językach wschodniosłowiańskich, niektóre także w litewskim; są kalkowane. Autor pokazał, że semantycznie frazemy mające postać _i, choć _j podzielić można na trzy grupy semantyczne. Jednostki zaliczone do tych grup zaś można potraktować reprezentacje swoistych „nadfrazemów”: _i, choć _j1, _i, choć _j 2 _ oraz _i, choć _j3.
Considering How the Caregiver-Child Dyad Informs the Promotion of Healthy Eating Patterns in Children
Authors: Nita Abigail , Ortiz Robin , Chen Sabrina , Chicas Vanessa E. , Schoenthaler Antoinette , Pina Paulo , Gross Rachel S. , Duh-Leong Carol
Published: December 2024

Although it is known that caregiver dietary behaviors influence child eating patterns, a gap remains in addressing the diet of a caregiver as much as their child in pediatric practice. A dyadic (caregiver-child) dietary approach would enhance the promotion of healthy eating patterns in children (and their caregivers) and achieve the population health goal of healthy eating across demographic groups. This study aimed to understand factors influencing dyadic dietary patterns (concordance, discordance) and contexts. Twenty professionals who provide nutrition-related expertise for families were recruited via maximum variation sampling. Qualitative thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews revealed 3 themes: (1) variable professional perspectives on what constitutes “healthy eating,” (2) eating patterns of a child in the setting of variable caregiver eating practices, and (3) challenges to the promotion of a healthy caregiver-child dyadic diet within a social context. The results offer insight for future interventions that promote positive intergenerational transmission of health.
A Cost Analysis of Opioid/Acetaminophen Therapy Versus a Multidrug, Opioid-Free Multimodal Postoperative Pain Control Regimen
Authors: Jackson James Benjamin , Bakaes Yianni , Kelly William , Bian Julia , Bookstaver Paul Brandon , York Aly , Gonzalez Tyler
Published: December 2024

Background: Opioids are often part of the post-operative pain regimen after orthopaedic surgery. Novel multimodal post-operative pain control regimens have been developed to decrease the amount of opioid usage due to their negative side effects including nausea, constipation, and addiction. The purpose of this study was to compare the cost of postoperative pain management treatment methods after orthopaedic surgery between opioid/acetaminophen therapy and an opioid-free, multidrug, multimodal pathway. Methods: This is a secondary analysis of data collected from 2 IRB approved prospective studies that evaluated pain control after elective orthopaedic surgery from a single institution. The first study analyzed the use of opioid medication after hallux valgus surgery and calculated the total cost of opioid pain medication consumed. The second study assessed the pain of patients after elective foot and ankle surgery utilizing a novel opioid-free multimodal pain pathway that included 5 medications. The postoperative prescription costs of these 2 pain management groups were totaled, analyzed, and compared. A paired t-test was used to compare the means of these 2 groups and to evaluate whether significant differences might exist between them. Results: We noted that the opioid group had an average cost of $8.92 (SD $5.74), while the opioid-free multimodal group had an average total cost of $25.60 (SD $10.49), P < .001. The average difference in cost between the 2 regimens was $16.68. Conclusion: There was a statistically significant difference between the costs of an opioid-free multimodal post-operative pain regimen when compared to an opioid/acetaminophen therapy, irrespective of public vs private insurance. This 17-dollar cost difference may or may not be clinically significant depending on the financial situation of the patient, but it may be important for the clinician to consider to provide appropriate individualized patient care after orthopaedic surgery.

Level of Evidence: II.
Perceptual Salience of Tones, Vowels, and Consonants in Mandarin Speech Errors
Authors: Liu Zifeng , Chitoran Ioana , Turco Giuseppina
Published: December 2024

The present study examines the perceptual salience of tonal speech errors compared with segmental errors (consonant and vowel). Tonal errors are observed less often than segmental errors. We thus hypothesize that tone errors are more easily ignored during transcription tasks because tones may have lower perceptual salience relative to segments. We test this hypothesis in Mandarin, via a number reconstruction task. Sixty-nine Mandarin native listeners heard sequences of numbers in which one number was altered by substituting its vowel, consonant, or tone. They were asked to identify which number that was. We found that Mandarin listeners identified the original number most accurately when consonants were substituted. They were the least accurate when vowels were substituted. For tone substitution, the accuracy was lower than for consonant substitution, but not significantly different from vowel substitution. Reaction times to identify a number with tone substitution were comparable to those for other types of substitutions. The results show that, contrary to our hypothesis, tone errors are not perceptually less salient than segmental errors. Specifically, tone errors are as salient as vowel errors and more salient than consonant errors, suggesting a similar phonological status shared by tone, vowel, and consonant in constraining word selection.
Research–Practice Partnerships to Advance a State-Level Public Health Approach to Firearm Injury Prevention in the United States: A Colorado Case Study
Authors: Wright-Kelly Erin , Buck-Atkinson Jessica , Brooks-Russell Ashley , MacFarland Andrew , Friedman Kaitlyn , France Eric , Calonge Ned , Cortiglio Carrie , Betz Marian E.
Published: December 2024

Firearm injuries and violence are a leading cause of death and a public health crisis in the United States, where firearms were the leading method of suicide and homicide deaths in 2022. For nearly one-quarter of a century, the federal government did not fund research on firearm mortality and morbidity, but the field of firearm injury prevention is now seeing new federal, state, and foundation funding and infrastructure opportunities. The prior lack of funding has affected researchers and practitioners in firearm injury prevention, emphasizing the need for these 2 groups to now work collaboratively to understand the problem and develop, test, and scale solutions to this public health crisis. This case study describes ways in which University of Colorado researchers partnered with public health practitioners at the newly formed Colorado Office of Gun Violence Prevention to understand and address firearm injuries in Colorado. The partnership used a public health approach to firearm injury prevention focused on building infrastructure and activities in 3 key areas: (1) enhancing data infrastructure and public-facing access to data, (2) translating research evidence to practice approaches, and (3) evaluating state prevention strategies to inform quality improvement. This case study can be used to inform research–practice partnerships charged with building, implementing, evaluating, and scaling firearm injury prevention efforts.
The Military As a Non-Caring Institution: A Case Study of Nigerian Military Widows of the Boko Haram Conflict
Authors: Ajala Fisayo , Heinecken Lindy
Published: December 2024

This study examines the Nigerian Army’s provision of benefits to widows of soldiers killed in the Boko Haram conflict. While military institutions generally offer compensation to bereaved families, the effectiveness of such programs varies. This qualitative research, employing in-depth interviews and focus groups, argues that the Nigerian Army deals with the widows of its fallen soldiers in a bureaucratic and non-caring manner when they access their spousal benefits. This lack of administrative assistance is exacerbated by the widows’ reliance on patronage networks to access their entitlements. These experiences foster a perception of the military as an uncaring institution. The study concludes by urging the Nigerian Army to streamline its bureaucratic processes and eliminate inefficiencies and unprofessional conduct to fulfill its obligations toward fallen soldiers’ families. Failure to do so has severe consequences at various levels for military families, the military, and society.
Ensuring reliable water level measurement for flooding: A redundancy-based approach with pressure transducer and computer vision
Authors: Matos Saulo Neves , Rocha Arthur Lima Marques , Domingues Filho Gabriel Montagni , Ranieri Caetano Mazzoni , Garcia Rodrigo Dutra , Faria Ana Clara de Oliveira , Medina Maria Mercedes Gamboa , Ueyama Jó
Published: December 2024

Fluid level measurement is essential in many fields, including industrial and civil sectors, especially for urban flood detection, where there is a high risk of mortality and economic losses. However, although contact-based methods that employ pressure transducers can achieve a high degree of precision, they are susceptible to damage from direct contact with the fluid. This study adopts a redundancy-based approach that combines pressure transducer measurements with computer vision to provide enhanced reliability and reduce the risk of sensor failures. Our approach entails training a deep-learning model that uses pressure sensor data to mitigate this potential risk of damage and avoid the need for manually annotating sets of images. The results show that the pressure transducer has high accuracy, with a mean absolute error (MAE) of 1.21 cm, and that the computer vision model which is trained on pressure sensor data, achieves a comparable MAE of 6.67 cm. This approach also makes the system more robust and includes a dependable backup measurement method in case the primary sensor fails. Furthermore, the model trained on the sensor data led to results that were very similar to those trained directly on ground-truth data.
Adaptive finite-time control for non-strict feedback nonlinear systems with infinite number of time-varying actuator failures and output constraints
Authors: Sheng Ning , Jiang Tianyu , Zhang Qichun , Cui Hanxue
Published: December 2024

This paper presents an adaptive finite-time fault-tolerant control strategy for non-strict feedback nonlinear systems, addressing infinite time-varying actuator faults and output constraints. It introduces a fuzzy adaptive updating law to compensated actuator faults and uses a barrier Lyapunov function (BLF) to handle output constraints in both constrained and unconstrained systems. The method integrates adaptive backstepping and fuzzy logic to manage non-strict feedback challenges and incorporates projection adaptation techniques. The approach incorporates projection adaptation design techniques in its scheme. The controller designed through this method not only ensures finite-time convergence of the system’s output tracking error to the origin but also guarantees compliance with output constraints, even in the face of potentially infinite time-varying actuator failures. The efficacy of this proposed method is corroborated by simulation examples, showcasing its proficiency in managing both actuator faults and output constraints.
Relaxed results on reachable set estimation of singular system with time-varying delay
Authors: Shen Zhihao , Zhang Liang , Zhao Ning
Published: December 2024

This paper further investigates the problem of reachable set estimation (RSE) for a class of continuous-time singular systems with time-varying delay. First, we use the relaxed Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional to tackle the RSE problem. This functional does not need all the matrices concerned to be positive definite. In addition, a novel weighted integral inequality and time-delay partition approach are utilized to reduce conservatism in the results. Based on these methods, sufficient conditions in the form of linear matrix inequalities are established. Finally, the correctness and validity of these relaxed results are demonstrated by three simulation examples.