bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Amelioration of 5-Fluorouracil Induced Nephrotoxicity by Acacia catechu
through Overcoming Oxidative Damage and Inflammation in Wistar Rats
Authors: Gadekar Gayatri Jaising , Bhandare Pranali Anandrao , Bandawane Deepti Dinesh
Published: November 2023

Aim:

The research intended to explore the possible nephroprotective potential of the
ethyl acetate fraction derived from Acacia catechu leaves against nephrotoxicity brought about
by 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in Wistar rats.

Background:

While possessing strong anticancer properties, 5-FU is hindered in its therapeutic
application due to significant organ toxicity linked to elevated oxidative stress and inflammation.

Objective:

The study is undertaken to conduct an analysis of the ethyl acetate fraction of A. catechu leaves both in terms of quality and quantity, examining its impact on different biochemical
and histopathological parameters within the context of 5-FU-induced renal damage in rats and
elucidation of the mechanism behind the observed outcomes.

Methodology:

Intraperitoneal injection of 5-FU at a dosage of 20 mg/kg/day over 5 days was
given to induce nephrotoxicity in rats. The evaluation of nephrotoxicity involved quantifying
serum creatinine, urea, uric acid, and electrolyte concentrations. Furthermore, superoxide dismutase, catalase antioxidant enzymes, and TNF-α concentration in serum were also measured.

Results:

5-FU injection led to the initiation of oxidative stress within the kidneys, leading to
modifications in renal biomarkers (including serum creatinine, urea, uric acid, and Na+
, K+ levels), and a reduction in antioxidant enzymes namely superoxide dismutase and catalase. Notably,
the presence of the inflammatory cytokine TNF-α was significantly elevated due to 5-FU. Microscopic examination of renal tissue revealed tubular degeneration and congestion. However,
treatment involving the ethyl acetate fraction derived from A. catechu leaves effectively and
dose-dependently reversed the changes observed in renal biomarkers, renal antioxidant enzymes,
inflammatory mediators, and histopathological features, bringing them closer to normal conditions. The observed recuperative impact was mainly attributed to the antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties of the fraction.

Conclusion:

The ethyl acetate fraction of A. catechu leaves exhibited a mitigating influence on
the renal impairment caused by 5-FU, showcasing its potential as a nephroprotective agent capable of preventing and ameliorating 5-FU-induced nephrotoxicity.
The Thyroid-cardiac Axis: Thyroid Function, Cardiac Rhythmology, and
Sudden Cardiac Death
Authors: Spartalis Michael , Spartalis Eleftherios , Paschou Stavroula A. , Iliopoulos Dimitrios C. , Siasos Gerasimos
Published: November 2023

It is well known that thyroid dysfunction increases the risk of cardiovascular mortality
and morbidity. The pleiotropic effect of thyroid hormones has a profound effect on the cardiovascular
system, influencing both the formation of a normal cardiac rhythm and rhythm disturbance.
A number of research studies have demonstrated correlations between TSH and FT4
levels and significant cardiovascular events. The pathophysiological mechanisms underlying
these complex associations are, however, inadequately defined. A system-based examination of
the relationship between thyroid homeostasis and cardiovascular disease could pave the way for
novel study areas and a more individualised strategy for the management of individuals at cardiovascular
risk.
Successful Pregnancy and Delivery after Premature Ovarian Insufficiency
Combined with Undifferentiated Connective Tissue Disease: A Case
Report
Authors: Du Mengyang , Peng Liying , Zhang Ruixiu , Bao Shihua
Published: November 2023

Background::

Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is extremely rare in the early
stage of undifferentiated connective tissue disease. Patients with POI find it difficult to achieve
successful pregnancy and delivery.

Case Presentation::

A 27-year-old female visited an outpatient department for premature ovarian
insufficiency (POI) and infertility. She had regular menstrual periods since she was 14 years
old and had no history of systemic disease. Laboratory tests showed low estrogen (15 ng/L,
range 19.6-144.2 ng/L), elevated follicle-stimulating hormone (34 U/L), low anti-Mullerian
hormone (0.1 μg/L), normal prolactin (11.48 ng/mL), and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH)
levels (0.97 mU/L). She demonstrated smaller bilateral ovarian volume and positivity to antinuclear
and antiphospholipid antibodies. After the failure of conventional drug therapy and in vitro
fertilization, the patient became pregnant naturally after treatment with glucocorticoids.

Conclusion::

Immunosuppression could help improve ovarian function and pregnancy outcomes
in POI patients, but the therapeutic mechanisms are not clear and should be elucidated with
more clinical studies.
Case Series: Exposure to Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonist in the
First Trimester of Pregnancy in Two Siblings
Authors: Doğan Şerife Ezgi , Kuşkonmaz Şerife Mehlika , Koc Gonul , Aypar Ebru , Çulha Cavit
Published: November 2023

Background:

The safety of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists in pregnancy is
under investigation. In this report, we want to share the results of a patient with polycystic ovary
syndrome who applied to our outpatient clinic for diabetes and had two unplanned pregnancies
following the initiation of exenatide for obesity treatment.

Case Presentation:

A 40-year-old woman with diabetes was admitted to the endocrinology outpatient
clinic. On physical examination, the body mass index was over 35 kg/m ², therefore, exenatide
treatment was started. Four weeks later, she came to suspicion of pregnancy, and obstetric
ultrasound revealed a fetus at 17 weeks of gestation. Exenatide was interrupted. At 37 weeks
of gestation, she gave birth to a female baby with atrial septal defect. The baby was followed
with echocardiography annually until spontaneous closure of ASD when she was three years old.
Two years later, the patient consulted us again for weight gain. Exenatide was prescribed again.
After 5 months, an abdominal ultrasound revealed a fatty liver and detected a pregnancy compatible
with 13 weeks of gestation. Two siblings are healthy now, 7 and 5 years old, respectively.

Conclusion:

This report contributes to our knowledge of fetal exposure to exenatide. Large-scale
randomized studies are needed for its safe use in pregnancy.
Comparative Study of Liposomal and Ethosomal Formulations of Curcuma heyneana Rhizome Extract in a Transdermal Delivery System
Authors: Kusumawati Idha , Kurniawan Kresma Oky , Rohmania Rohmania , Pratama Bernasdito Ade , Pratama Yusuf Alif , Rullyansyah Subhan , Warsito Mega Ferdina , Widyowati Retno , Hestianah Eka Pramyrtha , Matsunami Katsuyoshi
Published: November 2023

Aims:

This study aimed to develop an anti-aging nanoformulation with Curcuma heyneana
extract as bioactive substance.

Background:

Curcuma heyneana Valeton & Zipj extract has been proven in previous research to
have antioxidant, anti-ageing, anti-inflammatory, and wound healing properties, which makes it a
potential bioactive material for anti-ageing and sunscreen cosmetic products. Phytoantioxidants need
to penetrate into deeper skin layers to ensure effectivity. Thus, a transdermal delivery system is
needed to deliver the extract to a deeper skin layer.

Objective:

The objective of the study was to compare the permeability and anti-ageing activity of
liposomal and ethosomal formulations of C. heynena rhizome ethanolic extract.

Methods:

In this study, C. heyneana extract was loaded into a phospholipid vesicular system in the
form of liposome and ethosome formulations using the ethanolic injection method. The anti-ageing
activity was assessed by analyzing the epidermal thickness, number of sunburn cells, distance
between collagen fibers, and number of fibroblasts. While the histologic specimen scoring was
carried out for the in vivo penetration study.

Results:

The ethosomal formulation had been found to have better penetration ability since it was
able to reach the lower dermis area compared to the liposomes, which only reached the upper dermis.
The ethosomal formulation of C. heyneana extract exhibited a better anti-ageing activity based on
the parameters of epidermal thickness, sunburn cell count, fibroblast count, and the distance between
collagen fibres in rat skin histology.

Conclusion:

Ethosomes have been found to be a more proficient carrier system for transdermal delivery
of C. heyneana extract compared to liposomes. Meanwhile, their penetration correlated with
the effectivity of the formulation, suggesting that the vesicular system enhanced the penetration ability
of the extract.
Mitigation of the Impact of Incorporating Charging Stations for Electric Vehicles Using Solar-based Renewable DG on the Electrical Distribution System
Authors: Yuvaraj Thangaraj , Suresh Thirukoilur Dhandapani , Selvi Selvaraj , Balamurugan Pottukkannan
Published: November 2023

Background:

The utilization of electric vehicles (EVs) is on the rise, which has led to
significant challenges for the radial distribution system (RDS). This research aimed to investigate
the impact of electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS) on power loss, voltage stability, and reliability
within the RDS. Solar-based renewable distributed generation (SRDG) offers a range of
benefits in mitigating the impact of EVCS on the distribution system. To simulate the integration
of EV charging loads and assess their effects on the RDS, the study has employed the widely
used IEEE 69-bus system as a test platform.

Methods:

A novel approach utilizing the cuckoo search algorithm (CSA) is presented in this article
to determine the optimal locations for EVCS and SRDG.

Results:

The study has examined the potential power losses resulting from additional EV loads
and explored strategies to optimize charging rates and minimize resistive losses. Voltage stability
has been assessed by analyzing the voltage drop caused by high charging loads, and the efficiency
of voltage regulation devices and control strategies has been evaluated. Moreover, the paper
has discussed the reliability implications of EV charging, including localized overloads and the
possibility of outages.

Conclusion:

Overall, this research has enhanced our understanding of the challenges associated
with integrating EVCS into the RDS and offered potential solutions to address these challenges.
Narrative Review of Mobile Technology: Evidence from Older Adults
Authors: Lau Yui-yip , Tang Yuk Ming , Keung Alan Leung Wai
Published: November 2023

In the 21st century, many developed countries have become aging societies.
Although network speed, the improvement of smartphones, and 5G foster the growth of
mobile technology, the employment of mobile technology exhibited a significant gap in
the design and application of mobile technology that can be applied for older adults.
This study analyses the design and implementation of mobile technologies to
investigate novel mobile applications that support older adults in aged homes, by
conducting a comprehensive discussion. As such, this study selects an expert narrative
overview of a literature search from Google Scholar and archives. Analysis results
reveal that designing new mobile apps, strengthening the interaction through VR
technologies, and developing smartwatches for nursing homes. We need to consult
older adults to ascertain if they are willing to use the technology. Mobile technology
provides better support for older adults and monitors their health condition.
Active Tuberculosis Screening via a Mobile Health App in Myanmar: Incremental Cost-Effectiveness Evaluation
Authors: Htet Kyaw Ko Ko , Phyu Aye Nyein , Zayar Nyi Nyi , Chongsuvivatwong Virasakdi
Published: November 2023

Background

A mobile app that calculates a tuberculosis (TB) risk score based on individual social and pathological characteristics has been shown to be a better predictor of the risk of contracting TB than conventionally used TB signs and symptoms (TBSS) in Myanmar, where the TB burden is high. Its cost-effectiveness, however, has not yet been assessed.

Objective

This study aimed to determine the incremental costs of this mobile app and of chest x-rays (CXRs) in averting disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) among missed cases of active TB in the population being screened.

Methods

Elements of incremental costs and effectiveness of 3 initial TB screening strategies were examined, including TBSS followed by CXR, the mobile app followed by CXR, and universal CXR. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER; ie, the additional cost for each additional DALY averted) was compared to TBSS screening. Based on the latest 2020 gross domestic product (GDP) per capita of Myanmar (US $1477.50), the ICER was compared to willingness-to-pay (WTP) thresholds of 1, 2, and 3 times the GDP per capita. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis was conducted with a Monte Carlo simulation to compute the levels of probability that the ICER for each strategy was below each WTP threshold.

Results

For each 100,000 population, the incremental cost compared to TBSS of active TB screening was US $345,942 for the mobile app and US $1,810,712 for universal CXR. The incremental effectiveness was 325 DALYs averted for the mobile app and 576 DALYs averted for universal CXR. For the mobile app, the estimated ICER was US $1064 (72% of GDP per capita) per 1 DALY averted. Furthermore, 100% of the simulated values were below an additional cost of 1 times the GDP per capita for 1 additional DALY averted. The universal CXR strategy has an estimated ICER of US $3143 (2.1 times the GDP per capita) per 1 DALY averted and an additional 77.2% DALYs averted compared to the app (ie, 576 – 325 / 325 DALYs); however, 0.5% of the simulated values were higher than an additional expenditure of 3 times the GDP per capita.

Conclusions

Based on the status of the economy in 2020, the mobile app strategy is affordable for Myanmar. The universal CXR strategy, although it could prevent an additional 77% of DALYs, is probably unaffordable. Compared to the TBSS strategy, the mobile app system based on social and pathological characteristics of TB has potential as a TB screening tool to identify missing TB cases and to reduce TB morbidity and mortality, thereby helping to achieve the global goal of “End TB” in resource-limited settings with a high TB burden.
People are different: Exploring anesthesia provider preferences for precision feedback (Preprint)
Authors: Landis-Lewis Zach , Andrews Chris , Gross Colin , Friedman Charles , Shah Nirav
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

In health systems, feedback is pervasive and is widely considered to be essential for learning that drives improvement. Clinical quality dashboards are one widely deployed approach to delivering feedback, but engagement with these systems is commonly low, reflecting a limited understanding of how to improve the effectiveness of feedback about health care. When coaches and facilitators deliver feedback for improving performance, they aim to be responsive to the recipient’s motivations, information needs, and preferences. However, such functionality is largely missing from dashboards and feedback reports. Precision feedback is the delivery of high-value, motivating performance information that is prioritized based on its motivational potential for a specific recipient, including their needs and preferences. Anesthesia care offers a clinical domain with high-quality performance data and an abundance of evidence-based quality metrics.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to explore anesthesia provider preferences for precision feedback.

METHODS

We developed a test set of precision feedback messages with balanced characteristics across 4 performance scenarios. We created an experimental design to expose participants to contrasting message versions and elicited their preferences through analysis of the content of preferred messages. Participants rated their perceived benefit of preferred messages to clinical practice on a 5-point Likert scale.

RESULTS

Preferences were diverse across participants, but largely consistent within participants. Ratings of participants’ perceived benefit to clinical practice for preferred messages were high (M=4.27, SD = 0.77).

CONCLUSIONS

Healthcare professionals exhibited diverse yet internally consistent preferences for precision feedback across a set of performance scenarios, while also giving messages high ratings of perceived benefit. A one-size-fits-most approach to performance feedback delivery would not appear to satisfy these preferences. Precision feedback is a theory-informed approach to prioritizing performance information, based on its motivational potential for a specific recipient. We anticipate that precision feedback systems may hold potential to improve the effectiveness of feedback interventions through the satisfaction of diverse and consistent provider preferences for motivating performance information.
INVESTIGATION OF INDUSTRY 5.0 HURDLES AND THEIR MITIGATION TACTICS IN EMERGING ECONOMIES BY TODIM ARITHMETIC AND GEOMETRIC AGGREGATION OPERATORS IN SINGLE VALUE NEUTROSOPHIC ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Deivanayagampillai Nagarajan , Jacob Kavikumar , Vellapalayam Manohar Gobinath , Broumi Said
Published: November 2023

Industry 5.0 acceptance is accelerating, but research is still in its infancy, and existing research covers a small subset of context-specific obstacles. This study aims to enumerate all potential obstacles, quantitatively rank them, and assess interdependencies at the organizational level for Industry 5.0 adoption. To achieve this, we thoroughly review the literature, identify obstacles, and investigate causal relationships using a multi-criteria decision-making approach called single value Neutrosophic TODIM. Single-valued Neutrosophic sets (SVNS) ensembles are employed in a real-world setting to deal with uncertainty and indeterminacy. The suggested strategy enables the experts to conduct group decision-making by focusing on ranking the smaller collection of criterion values and the comparison with the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory method (DEMATEL). According to the findings, the most significant hurdles are expenses and the funding system, capacity scalability, upskilling, and reskilling of human labor. As a result, a comfortable atmosphere is produced for decision-making, enabling the experts to handle an acceptable amount of data while still making choices.
A SPHERICAL FUZZY BASED DECISION MAKING FRAMEWORK WITH EINSTEIN AGGREGATION FOR COMPARING PREPAREDNESS OF SMEs IN QUALITY 4.0
Authors: Biswas Sanjib , Božanić Darko , Pamučar Dragan , Marinković Dragan
Published: November 2023

Researchers work hard to embrace technological changes and redefine the quality management as Quality 4.0 (Q 4.0). In this context, the purpose of the current work is twofold. First, it aims to compare the preparedness of the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) for sustaining in Q4. Second, it intends to propose a novel hybrid spherical fuzzy based multi-criteria group decision-making (MAGDM) framework with Einstein aggregation (EA). A real-life case study on six SMEs is carried out with the help of three experts. For aggregating the individual responses (using spherical fuzzy numbers or SFNs), EA is used. Then two very recent models such as Simple Ranking Process (SRP) and Symmetry Point of Criterion (SPC) are extended using SFN to rank the SMEs. Finally, the validation tests and sensitivity analysis are carried out. It is noted that the application of analytical tools, knowledge management and use of technology under the support and mentorship of visionary leadership are the key criteria for building up the capability to embrace Q 4.0. Interestingly, it is noted that medium scale firms are better prepared than small-scale enterprises. This work is apparently a first of its kind that focuses on SMEs for assessing their quality management practices in Industry 4.0 era.
Impacto del ajuste cambiario sobre las exportaciones mexicanas hacia a los Estados Unidos
Authors: Covarrubias López José Gerardo , Liu Sun Xuedong , Sánchez Mendoza Héctor Iván
Published: November 2023

Los vínculos comerciales de México con Estados Unidos y China han propiciado una relación trilateral interesante e incluso única a nivel mundial tanto por la escala como por la conexión que se han registrado entre las importaciones procedentes del país asiático y las exportaciones mexicanas hacia el mercado norteamericano. Por ello, mediante la estimación de diversos modelos de vectores autorregresivos (VAR) se cuantificó el impacto del ajuste cambiario y de los bienes importados procedentes de China sobre las exportaciones hacia Estados Unidos.

De acuerdo con los resultados, se encontró que, por un lado, la relación entre el tipo de cambio y las ventas mexicanas al mercado estadounidense es positiva en todo el periodo a pesar de que la conclusión no es definitiva para distintos lapsos; y, por otro lado, se reveló que las importaciones procedentes de China incentivan las exportaciones aztecas al mercado de su vecino del norte. 

 
Desempeño de MiPyMEs y emprendedores: estrategias para superar los efectos de la pandemia
Authors: Martinez Lisana B. , Scherger Valeria
Published: November 2023

Dada la importancia de las MiPyMEs (Micro, Pequeñas y Medianas Empresas) en las economías y el impacto de las medidas abordadas por los gobiernos para sobrellevar los efectos de la pandemia de 2020, resulta relevante identificar los factores críticos que incidieron sobre el éxito empresarial. Se analiza la situación post-pandemia de 154 MiPyMEs argentinas teniendo en cuenta el perfil de los empresarios, las características de los emprendimientos y las medidas y estrategias abordadas durante el período de estudio. Se aplican modelos logit ordinales para detectar la incidencia de estos factores sobre la situación post-pandemia. Se identifica una mayor incidencia de los factores internos frente a los externos sobre el desempeño empresarial, destacándose la capacidad de resiliencia, la capacidad del management para gestionar las MiPyMEs y las mejoras implementadas en el proceso productivo como determinantes positivos para que las empresas registren una situación post-pandemia buena.
Seroprevalence and Genotypic Characterization of Orientia tsutsugamushi in Febrile Pediatric Patients Admitted in Tertiary Care Hospital of Chennai, South India
Authors: Murali Rajagopal , Kalpana Sivasambo , Satheeshkumar Panneerselvam , Dhandapani Prabu
Published: November 2023

Scrub typhus is one of the important vector borne illness which is largely underdiagnosed, particularly in children. It causes mild febrile illness to severe complications. More than 20 genotypic clusters are documented from various geographical regions based on sequence variations of 56kDa type specific antigen gene of Orientia tsutsugamushi, the causative agent of scrub typhus. Adequate knowledge about epidemiology and genetic diversity in endemic regions is an important tool for clinical management, development of diagnostic kit and vaccines. Limited studies are available based on genotypic characterization of Orientia tsutsugamushi in children. The present study determined the prevalence and genotypic characterization of Orientia tsutsugamushi in febrile pediatric patients admitted in tertiary care hospital of Chennai, South India. Both serum and blood samples were collected from 239 scrub typhus suspected febrile pediatric patient’s aged between 6 months to 12 years. IgM ELISA and 56kDa nested PCR were performed on all the patient samples. Nested PCR positive samples were sequenced and analyzed for genotypic differences. Among 239 samples, 103 were positive for IgM ELISA and 35 were positive for nPCR analysis. Out of the 108 scrub typhus positive cases, 45.31% (58/128) were male and 45.05% (50/111) were female. Eschar was positive in 56.48% of patients. Pneumonia (4/108), hypotensive shock (3/108), and myocarditis (1/108) were the most common clinical complications associated with scrub typhus positive children. Karp (56.6%) was the most common genotypic cluster found in our study, followed by TA716 (33.33%), TA763 (2/30), and Gilliam (1/30).
Infidelity and Resilience among Young Adults in Romantic Relationships
Authors: Franshaw Ms. Janet Gerika , Saxena Dr. Tamanna
Published: November 2023

Abstract: This research aimed to investigate the relationship between infidelity and resilience among young adults in romantic relationships. The research included young adults aged 18-25 who were or had been in a romantic relationship, while excluding individuals outside this age range or those who had never been in a romantic relationship. Two scales were used to collect data: The Infidelity Scale, consisting of 35 items and developed by Logue et al. in 2010, and the Resilience Scale, consisting of 14 items and developed by Wagnild in 2009. The participants, totaling 120 individuals, were from the Delhi-NCR region. The research demonstrates that there is a significant relationship between infidelity and resilience among young adults in romantic relationships. It also reveals a significant difference in infidelity between males and females, with females exhibiting higher levels of infidelity. However, there was no significant difference in resilience between males and females in the context of romantic relationships. These findings suggest that infidelity may impact relationship quality and resilience differently for males and females
Type-II Censored analysis based on Exponentiated Inverted Weibull distribution
Authors: Ch V Sastry
Published: November 2023

Abstract: Order statistics are widely used in Statistical modeling and its Statistical inference. Inferential aspects based on complete and incomplete data. Parameter estimation for the Exponentiated Inverted Weibull distribution based on order statistics is studied. In this paper deals with a detailed discussion on density function order statistics for complete and ordering of the data of different parameters in EIW distribution. To estimate the parameters, calculate the Mean Square Error, Total Deviation and data is tested with Kolmogrov and Smirnov method.
Automation of Seating Plan for Examinations using Round-Robin Policy
Authors: Nakkeeran Dr. R. , Reddy Ailuri Narmada , Lavanya Kanaparthi , Sandeep Sunka
Published: November 2023

Abstract: This paper introduces a Python-based Graphical User Interface (GUI) application designed to automate the seating arrangement process for examinations, specifically catering to the needs of examination departments. Leveraging the openpyxl and pandas libraries for Excel file manipulation and creating Dataframes the application aims to replace the laborious manual process traditionally employed by colleges. The main objective is to reduce the time and effort invested by examination departments in seating arrangement tasks. The user-friendly GUI simplifies data input, while the application's algorithm automates seating assignments, ensuring that no two students writing same exam can’t sit in same bench in optimal manner using excel and python . Results demonstrate a significant reduction in time spent on seating arrangement, with outputs including detailed room-wise seating sheets and comprehensive summaries listing roll numbers by regulation and branch. This innovative approach not only streamlines examination management but also enhances accuracy and efficiency.From this GUI we can add, edit and delete the halls in which the exams are being conducted.Further we input the excel sheet in which the roll numbers of students were there as per their branch and regulation as input and genrates formatted excel sheets that generate seating arrangement .Formatting the font and size of rows and columns and wrapping the columns when required are done automatically
Review and Analysis of Big History Periodization Approaches
Authors:   American College of Physicians, Solis Ken , LePoire David ,   Argonne National Laboratory
Published: November 2023

Big history may in fact be one very long “one damn thing after another,”* but even if we experience time as a continuum, dividing its expanse makes our discipline more “manageable” for psychological, teaching, research, discourse, and other reasons. Big history related books, like David Christian, Cynthia Stokes Brown, and Craig Benjamin’s 2014 textbook, Big History: Between Nothing and Everything, and several papers also often divide the time continuum into periods, but unlike other disciplines such as geology, we have no broadly agreed upon conventions for doing so. Big history pioneer, Fred Spier, in a recent JBH paper, “Thresholds of Big History – A Critical Review” (Vol 5, No. 1), criticized Christian’s “thresholds” schema for periodization and seemed skeptical of the very idea of periodization. As noted above, we believe that periodization is a worthwhile project to be undertaken, preferably by an ad hoc IBHA “working group.” We then suggest a general framework for how big history might be divided into time periods, and then anticipate some of the major challenges to developing any coherent periodization schema. So that we can better illustrate some of these challenges, we will end by taking deeper analyses of three possible big history “events” that might be used for demarcating one time period from another.
Dual Closure: a New Tool for Recognizing Thresholds Between Levels of Organization in Big History
Authors:   Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands, Jagers op Akkerhuis Gerard
Published: November 2023

Big Historians study the development of the universe and how it passed through different phases. A fascinating trend is the historical increase in the complexity of a part of all systems. To analyse this trend, rankings have been proposed with different scientific and pedagogical aims. For example, they rank epochs, regimes, levels of organisation or dynamic domains. As a result of this variation, the number of levels differs between approaches, while the systems ranked at these levels are the result of unequal processes and belong to different overall types. Such diversity invites a re-examination of the fundamentals involved in these ranking processes. Moreover, if rankings are to be predictive, they must be consistent in their logic. To this end, it would be useful to have a sequence of levels that share a common logic. As such a common logic, and building on existing systems science and hierarchy theory, a new theory called O-theory proposes the use of a process called ‘dual closure’. Each successive dual closure represents a threshold between the old and new types of objects and their respective levels of organisation. In this way a causal logic is obtained, ranking systems from fundamental particles to organisms with brains, all of which are addressed by the generic name of operator. The hierarchy of the operators provides a basic framework that can be used to re-examine existing transdisciplinary classifications and learn more about why they differ in the number of levels they have. It is discussed how big historians might more easily achieve their broad goals if they added the operator hierarchy to their theoretical toolbox.
The Nexus of Storytelling and Collective Learning: A Synergistic Spark for Human Emergence
Authors:   Rowan University, Hasse John
Published: November 2023

This paper explores the implications of storytelling as an essential complimentary concept to collective learning for labeling human emergence within the Big History thresholds framework. It proposes that the distinctively human cognitive capability for communicating explanatory descriptive narration (i.e., storytelling) was a foundational adaptive behavior and central driving force that launched humans into a unique evolutionary pathway as collective learners whose increasing knowledge has transformed the world. Storytelling provides a theorem for why human language skills and brain capacity increased so dramatically since our common ancestor with chimpanzees, and how our storytelling brain models our world through narratives that undergird human belief systems and facilitate complex social coordination. The paper outlines the symbiotic role that storytelling played in turning the cultural “ratchet” of collective learning throughout prehistoric times and its corresponding influence on prehistorical milestones. It goes on to explore the benefits of teaching storytelling as a complement to Big History threshold (6) collective learning and concludes with a look at the vulnerability of the human storytelling brain regarding its ability to unite or divide people through the power of narratives, whether they are factual or fictional. The paper invites the Big History community to consider embracing the emerging transdiscipline of storytelling within the Big History tent as synergistic complement to collective learning, that pulls together many Big History threads and which can help improve the effectiveness of telling Big History as a common human origin story for navigating the precarious prospects of the Anthropocene.
The Trajectory of Human History
Authors:   Macquarie University Sydney, Australia, Christian David
Published: November 2023

Is it possible to identify a clear shape or trajectory to human history as a whole and what significance or meaning could we attach to such a trajectory? The argument here is that modern historical research within many different disciplines does indeed allow us to identify some striking shapes to the history of our species. It includes that those shapes are full of meaning for understanding the nature and significance of our strange species. Finally, it ends with some speculative ideas about how human history may evolve in the distant future in an attempt to see if we can perhaps glimpse what human history will look like when the human story has ended.
Juan de Sobiñas, bordador renacentista de Medina del Campo
Authors: CUBILLO MEDINA Víctor
Published: November 2023

En este artículo se estudia la obra de Juan de Sobiñas, vecino de Medina del Campo, a través de la documentación conservada. Se detallan las obras contratadas con este bordador desde 1577 a 1593.
Los tocados corniformes en las pinturas de Francisco de Mendieta
Authors: MEDINA GONZÁLEZ Amaya
Published: November 2023

En el siglo XVII aparecen las primeras pinturas al óleo sobre lienzo donde se representan tocados corniformes, siendo el pintor alavés Francisco de Mendieta su más significativo exponente. En las pinturas vemos la evolución de tales tocados, las tipologías más populares y la influencia de los llamados álbumes de trajes, aparecidos casi un siglo antes.
Intrinsic motivation as a determinant of perceived usefulness of library makerspace: the influence of learning dimensions
Authors: Haruna Bala , (Corresponding Author) Kiran K.
Published: November 2023

An increasing number of academic libraries are providing techno-savvy spaces, generally regarded as makerspace, that plays a significant role to serve the learning needs of university students. Yet, the underutilization of these makerspaces among learners in Nigerian universities is a growing concern. This study suggests a model using the Self-Determination Theory and the Tinkering Learning Dimensions Framework to investigate the influence of intrinsic motivation and learning dimensions (learning engagement and social scaffolding) on the perceived usefulness of library makerspace among Nigerian university students. Using a quantitative approach, four hypotheses were developed to examine the relationship between the constructs. Data from 323 valid respondents were analyzed using structural equation modeling. The findings reveal that intrinsic motivational factors have no direct statistically significant influence on the perceived usefulness of library makerspace. However, the relationship is mediated by an indirect influence of learning engagement. Social scaffolding and learning engagement were both found to have a direct significant influence on the perceived usefulness of makerspace. This study contributes to understanding the factors that influence the perceived usefulness of makerspace which would then lead to the increased use of this collaborative workspace. Contribution to the literature of the utilization of makerspace is discussed based on the presented framework.
Strategies for building institutional repositories a case study of content recruitment in Malaysian higher learning institutions
Authors: Osman Raudhah , (Corresponding Author) Abrizah A. , A.M.K. Yanti Idaya
Published: November 2023

Various strategies have been developed to ensure the success of the critical and challenging process of recruiting content for institutional repositories. This article presents an in-depth exploration of content recruitment strategies used by three Malaysian higher learning institutions in their institutional repositories. Through interviews with nine repository librarians, the study investigates the various methods used to acquire content, including mediated deposit, self-archiving, and promotion activities. The study reveals that setting up content deposit as a quality objective and key performance indicator (KPI) is a new and effective strategy used among the three case studies. The findings provide valuable insights into the approaches taken by these institutions to recruit content and offer practical guidelines for academic librarians in general. This study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on institutional repository management, highlighting the importance of implementing effective content recruitment strategies to ensure the success and sustainability of these repositories.
Avaliação do conhecimento do enfermeiro sobre hemotransfusão em um hospital de referência em trauma.
Authors: Alencar Roberto Pereira , Costa Aline da Silva , Fagundes Ana Paula Ferreira da Silva , Pereira Danielle Silva de Oliveira , Araújo Caroline Marinho de
Published: November 2023

Introdução: Os profissionais de enfermagem exercem um papel fundamental na segurança transfusional. A atuação da equipe de enfermagem não é limitada à apenas administrar os hemocomponentes, uma vez que tem a responsabilidade de prestar uma assistência livre de danos decorrentes de imperícia, negligência e imprudência. Portanto esses profissionais devem ter conhecimento das boas práticas relacionadas ao ciclo produtivo do sangue e componetes, garantindo a qualidade dos processos e produtos, reduzindos riscos sanitários e garantindo a segurança transfusional. Objetivo: Avaliar o conhecimento do enfermeiro sobre hemotransfusão, explorando os principais pontos da legislação que aborda o ciclo do sangue, enfatizando principalmente os conhecimentos necessários durante o ato transfusional. Materias e Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo exploratório, transversal, de campo, com abordagem quantitativa, realizado em um hospital de referência em urgência e trauma no estado de Goiás, sendo a coleta de dados estruturada por meio de questionário semi-estruturado, abordando os seguintes temas: legislação sobre o assunto, sistema ABO e RH, bolsa de coleta, tempo de administração, reação adversa imediata e tardia. Resultados: A amostra foi constituída de 35 enfermeiros (n), que atuam na assistência direta ao paciente crítico nas quatro UTIs do Hospital de Urgências de Goiás: 62,9 % afirmam que nunca participaram de educação continuada sobre transfusão sanguínea, 68,6 % desconhecem a classificação das reações transfusionais quanto ao tempo de manifestação do quadro clínico. 37,1% apresentaram resposta satisfatória quanto a iniciar a transfusão de concentrado de hemácias de acordo com o percentual de perda volêmica no choque hemorrágico. Conclusão: Boa parte dos enfermeiros não têm os conhecimentos necessários para realizar de forma competente o ato transfusional, podendo comprometer a segurança do paciente e a qualidade do serviço de saúde. Parte das fragilidades podem estar relacionadas à formação acadêmica, já que, uma parcela considerável de profissionais relataram não ter cursado disciplina que abordasse a hemoterapia durante a graduação. Espera-se que esse trabalho possa contribuir com o conhecimento e desenvolvimento de estudos sobre a terapia transfusional e que possa servir de base para formulação de avaliação e treinamentos dos profissionais envolvidos na terapia transfusional.
Consumo de psicoestimulantes por estudantes de medicina em um centro universitário privado.
Authors: Oliveira Fabiana Souza , Dutra Hadassa Franca , Fófano Gisele Aparecida
Published: November 2023

Introdução: O consumo de psicoestimulantes tem crescido exponencialmente, sobretudo entre estudantes de medicina, na busca por aumentar o rendimento acadêmico. Atualmente, a extensa carga horária de aulas e estudos, exigências de produtividade e altos níveis de estresse podem desencadear o uso. Objetivo: Analisar o uso de psicoestimulantes por estudantes do curso de Medicina de um Centro Universitário privado em Minas Gerais. Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo descritivo, quantitativo, com delineamento transversal entre os discentes do 1° ao 5° ano do curso de Medicina no 2° semestre de 2021. Os participantes responderam aoquestionário semi-estruturado elaborado pelos autores. Os dados obtidos foram tabulados no software Statistical Product and Service Solutions. Resultados:Dos 244 entrevistados, cerca de 57.4% faziam uso de algum psicoestimulante. Houve maior uso entre os estudantes do 2° anoe as principais substâncias utilizadas foram: cafeína (85%), energético (65%) e metilfenidato (60%). A melhora na concentração (97%) foi o efeito mais percebido pelos usuários, seguido de redução do sono (83%) e melhora de raciocínio (80%). Muitos consideraram que os estimulantes cerebrais têmo potencial de melhorar o rendimento acadêmico, mas pode reduzir a qualidade do sono e consequentemente torná-los susceptíveis a outras enfermidades. Conclusão: É notável que existe uso abusivo de estimulantes cerebrais, sendo fundamental o trabalho em conjunto entre instituição de ensino e familiares, em prol da prevenção e do controle de danos causados por esse hábito.
Prescribed-time consensus for multi-agent systems using finite switching time-varying gain
Authors: Li Yinsheng , Wang Bing , Chen Yuquan
Published: November 2023

In this paper, the prescribed-time consensus problem of multi-agent
systems with finite control gain is investigated. A novel control
Lyapunov function (CLF) framework for prescribed-time stability is
developed by using the time space deformation approach. For both
leaderless and leader-following prescribed-time consensus, new switching
time-varying gain-based protocols are proposed, in which, the infinite
time-varying control gain is turned off before the prescribed time and
the global finiteness of control gain is thus guaranteed. It is
mathematically proved that the agents equipped with the proposed
protocols can achieve less conservative prescribed-time consensus in
both leaderless cases and leader-following cases, on the basis of the
developed CLF framework. The superiority of the proposed prescribed-time
protocols in terms of consensus accuracy, control energy consumption,
and control peak value is demonstrated through comparison simulations
using illustrative examples.
Deep learning for passive acoustic monitoring: how to study changing phenology in remote areas
Authors: Christin Sylvain , Hervet Éric , Smith Paul , Alisauskas Ray , Berteaux Dominique , Brown Glen , Elliott Kyle , Hansen Jannik , Lai Sandra , Lamarre Jean-François , Lanctot Richard , Latty Christopher , Pogam Audrey Le , MacNearney Douglas , Patil Vijay , Rausch Jennie , Saalfeld Sarah , Schmidt Niels , Tam Andrew , Vézina François , Varpe Øystein , Woodard Paul , Yannic Glenn , Lecomte Nicolas
Published: November 2023

Understanding how species adjust to seasonality is fundamental in
ecology, especially with rapidly increasing global air temperatures.
Bioacoustic monitoring offers promise for tracking shifts in seasonal
timing of vocal species, as recent automated sound recorders enable
large-scale and long-term data collection. Yet, analyzing vast datasets
necessitates automation and innovative detection methods. Here, we
introduce BioSoundNet, a deep learning model designed for bird
vocalization detection. Trained on field data and open-access databases,
BioSoundNet achieved AUC scores of 0.88-0.93 and average precisions of
0.87-0.97 across five datasets spanning various ecosystems, and
effectively captured the temporal patterns of avian acoustic activity at
different time scales. Our findings underline the importance of
evaluating models in ecological contexts and to address the potential
consequences of missing detections. Operating efficiently on standard
computers, BioSoundNet is a robust tool for automated bird vocalization
detection, providing a valuable resource for ecological phenology
studies and acoustic dataset analysis.
Ferulago brachylobae-Daucetum setifolii J. Lopez-Tirado, ass. Nova from southern Spain
Authors: Lopez-Tirado Javier
Published: November 2023

Ferulago brachylobae-Daucetum setifolii, ass. nova is described from the
southern edge of the Sierra Morena in the Cordoba province (Andalusia,
Spain). It is characterised by the two hemicryptophytes naming the
association, usually located in heliophilous and rupicolous or scree degraded
areas, shaping an open community of low cover. Seventeen plots were studied
during late summer in the surroundings of Cordoba town (the West Iberian
Mediterranean province, the Luso-Extremadurese subprovince and the
Marianese-Monchiquese sector). The new association grows in the
thermo-Mediterranean and meso-Mediterranean thermotypes belonging to the
Rumici indurati-Dianthion lusitani alliance, the Phagnalo
saxatilis-Rumicetalia indurati order and the Phagnalo-Rumicetea indurati
class.
An insight into the variation of the antioxidative and antibacterial activity of extracts from populations of the subalpine and montane lichen Cetraria islandica
Authors: Marcincinová Margaréta , Tuptová Viktória , Tkáciková Ľudmila , Drábová Blazena , Haring Nora , Backor Martin
Published: November 2023

Lichens are supra-organismal symbiotic systems found in most environments. Environmental factors, such as temperature, altitude, precipitation, UV irradiation, or pathogens, significantly influence the physiology of lichens, and thus their secondary metabolism. The thalli of the same lichen species from different environments exhibit variation in the production of secondary metabolites and protective pigments. We selected two populations of the lichen Cetraria islandica from habitats differing in altitude, temperature, and precipitation. Then we compared their antioxidative and antibacterial activity. The lichen thalli were divided into two parts: the upper parts were exposed to light and the lower parts hidden from extensive radiation. The results show that the thalli from harsh alpine environments have higher 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) radical scavenging activity suggesting better tolerance to oxidative stress. On the other hand, the individuals from milder montane environments generally produce more secondary metabolites, leading to increased antibacterial activity of the extracts. The extracts of C. islandica containing fumarprotocetraric and paraconic acids exhibit inhibitory effects against gram-positive bacteria (e.g. Staphylococcus aureus) and some lower activity against gram-negative bacteria (e.g. Escherichia coli).