bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing apparent diffusion coefficient values of the masticatory muscles on diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging in patients with temporomandibular joint osteoarthrosis
Authors: Sawada Eri , Ito Kotaro , Hirahara Naohisa , Muraoka Hirotaka , Tokunaga Satoshi , Okada Shunya , Iwata Koji , Kaneda Takashi
Published: September 2023

Aim

This study aimed to compare the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values of the masticatory muscles between patients with and without temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJ‐OA) on diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging.

Methods

This prospective study included 120 patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD), including 60 patients with TMJ‐OA and 60 without TMJ‐OA, and 60 without TMD patients. All patients underwent magnetic resonance imaging of the TMJs at our hospital between November 2011 and January 2017. The regions of interest included the right and left lateral pterygoid muscles, medial pterygoid muscles, and masseter muscles on axial slices. Magnetic resonance images from the TMJ‐OA and control groups were independently evaluated by two oral and maxillofacial radiologists. ADC values were compared between the two groups using Mann–Whitney U tests.

Results

The respective mean ADC values of the lateral pterygoid muscles in patients with TMJ‐OA and controls were 1.18 × 10−3 and 1.33 × 10−3 mm2/s, respectively. Those for the medial pterygoid muscles were 1.14 × 10−3 and 1.25 × 10−3 mm2/s, while those for the masseter muscles were 1.20 × 10−3 and 1.28 × 10−3 mm2/s, respectively. The mean ADC values of the normal lateral pterygoid, normal medial pterygoid, and normal masseter muscles were 1.29 × 10−3, 1.09 × 10−3, and 1.08 × 10−3 mm2/s, respectively.

Conclusion

Among patients with TMDs, the ADC values of the masticatory muscles were significantly higher in patients without TMJ‐OA than in those with TMJ‐OA.
Submental intubation for orthognathic surgery in a patient with a history of pharyngeal flap construction: A case report
Authors: Isatsu Takayuki , Kobayashi Yoshikazu , Sekimoto Yu , Kim Min Jung , Aizawa Takako , Yoshida Mitsuyoshi
Published: September 2023

Background

Submental intubation is an airway management technique wherein an endotracheal tube is guided through incisions in the floor of the mouth and the submental skin after normal orotracheal intubation.

Case presentation

A 20‐year‐old man with a history of pharyngeal flap construction for a cleft palate was planned for orthognathic surgery. Preoperative nasopharyngoscopy showed that the space lateral to the flap was too narrow for nasotracheal intubation; then submental intubation was performed. No intra‐ or postoperative complications were observed.

Conclusion

Submental intubation is a useful alternative to tracheotomy in patients with difficulty in nasotracheal intubation during surgeries requiring occlusal confirmation.
Intertemporal budget constraint and current account sustainability: Evidence from a large emerging economy
Authors: Sahoo Manoranjan , Babu M. Suresh , Dash Umakant
Published: September 2023

This paper examines the sustainability of the current account deficit (CAD) and validity of the intertemporal budget constraint of India for the period of 1980 to 2019. The cointegration results show that exports and imports are not cointegrated and the current account (CA) series is not mean reverting during the study period. Therefore, the results refute the sustainability of CAD and the validity of the intertemporal budget constraint in the Indian context. Furthermore, the study also emphasised the testing of the disaggregated CA and found that while the goods account is not sustainable, the services account found to be sustainable in the long run. Our findings thus indicate the potential for aggregation bias to have an impact on the overall CA sustainability results. Therefore, policies that help in achieving self‐sufficiency on the one hand and export promotion in goods on the other may eventually contribute to CA sustainability.
On the identification of material parameters in the relaxed micromorphic continuum
Authors: Sarhil Mohammad , Scheunemann Lisa , Schröder Jörg , Neff Patrizio
Published: September 2023

For modeling materials with size‐effects, the classical Cauchy linear elasticity theory and first‐order homogenization procedures are insufficient. Enriched continua are able to capture such phenomena in principle. In this work, we model the size‐effects of metamaterial beams via the relaxed micromorphic continuum. The material parameters of the relaxed micromorphic model are evaluated. We present a simple procedure for the determination of the material parameters based on the fact that the model operates between two well‐defined scales that are the classical continuum scales of macroscopic linear elasticity, whose stiffness is given by a known macroscopic elasticity tensor, and a microscopic scale with a microscopic elasticity tensor yet to be identified. The size‐effects of metamaterial cantilevers under traction load are captured successfully.
Understanding recent deep‐learning techniques for identifying collective variables of molecular dynamics
Authors: Zhang Wei , Schütte Christof
Published: September 2023

High‐dimensional metastable molecular dynamics (MD) can often be characterised by a few features of the system, that is, collective variables (CVs). Thanks to the rapid advance in the area of machine learning and deep learning, various deep learning‐based CV identification techniques have been developed in recent years, allowing accurate modelling and efficient simulation of complex molecular systems. In this paper, we look at two different categories of deep learning‐based approaches for finding CVs, either by computing leading eigenfunctions of transfer operator associated to the underlying dynamics, or by learning an autoencoder via minimisation of reconstruction error. We present a concise overview of the mathematics behind these two approaches and conduct a comparative numerical study of these two approaches on illustrative examples.
Association between precautionary behaviors against coronavirus disease and psychosocial factors in outpatients with a pre‐existing disease and their attendants
Authors: Idemoto Keita , Niitsu Tomihisa , Shiina Akihiro , Kobori Osamu , Onodera Misaki , Ota Kiyomitsu , Miyazawa Atsuhiro , Tachibana Masumi , Kimura Makoto , Seki Ryota , Hashimoto Tasuku , Yoshimura Kensuke , Ito Shoichi , Nakazato Michiko , Igarashi Yoshito , Shimizu Eiji , Iyo Masaomi
Published: September 2023

Aim

The spread of the novel coronavirus infection (coronavirus disease 2019 [COVID‐19]) has caused behavioral changes and mental illness in patients and their attendants during its early phase. The present study aimed to examine the association between precautionary behaviors against COVID‐19 and psychosocial factors in outpatients with pre‐existing disease and their attendants.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional paper‐based questionnaire survey in Chiba University Hospital on 1019 patients and 513 attendants, and a web‐based questionnaire survey in Japan on 3981 individuals from the general population. We evaluated the participants' anxiety about COVID‐19, depression, health anxiety, and precautionary behaviors.

Results

Regarding knowledge and anxiety about COVID‐19, the protective factors for the high precautionary behaviors group were knowledge of COVID‐19 (odds ratio [OR] = 1.178, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.099–1.263), anxiety about the spread of COVID‐19 (OR = 1.348, 95% CI: 1.243–1.461), and anxiety about infecting someone with COVID‐19 (OR = 1.135, 95% CI: 1.039–0.239). Regarding psychosocial factors, the protective factors for the high precautionary behaviors group were patients (OR = 1.759, 95% CI: 1.056–2.929), their attendants (OR = 3.892, 95% CI: 1.416–10.700), health anxiety (OR = 2.005, 95% CI: 1.451–2.772), and nondepression states (OR = 1.368, 95% CI: 1.004–1.864).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that patients and their attendants may perform high precautionary behaviors. Health anxiety and nondepression states may be associated with high precautionary behaviors.
Responding to distress in cancer care: Increasing access to psycho oncology services through integrated collaborative care
Authors: Aburizik Arwa , Raque Trisha L. , Spitz Nathen , Mott Sarah L. , McEnroe Aubrey , Kivlighan Martin
Published: September 2023

Objective

Despite increased attention to the utility of collaborative care models for promoting whole‐person care in cancer populations, there is a paucity of empirical research testing the impact of these care models on effectively identifying and serving highly distressed cancer patients. This study sought to experimentally test the effectiveness of a year‐long collaborative care program on referral rates to psycho‐oncology services for patients with moderate to high distress.

Methods

Data for this study consisted of 11,467 adult patients with cancer who were screened for psychosocial distress 6‐months prior to, and following, the integrated collaborative care intervention. Psychosocial referral rates pre‐, peri‐ and post‐ intervention were analyzed.

Results

Findings indicated high distress patients were at 3.76 (95% CI [2.40, 5.87]), 5.03 (95% CI [3.25, 7.76]), and 7.62 (95% CI [5.34, 10.87]) times increased odds of being referred during the pre‐intervention, peri‐intervention, and post‐intervention, respectively, when compared to low distress patients, and these differences across time were significantly different (p = 0.04).

Conclusion

Findings from this study suggest that the successful initiation of a collaborative care model within a comprehensive cancer center contributed to significantly greater referral rates of cancer patients with moderate to high distress to psycho‐oncology services. This study contributes to the growing consensus that collaborative care models can positively impact the care of complex medical patients.
Xiaotan Sanjie Fang prevents colonic inflammation‐related tumorigenesis by inhibiting COX‐2/VEGF expression cancer
Authors: Ye Min , Du Jiaqi , Chen Dagui , Xiu Lijuan , Liu Xuan , Sun Dazhi , Wang Xiaowei
Published: September 2023

Colitis‐associated bowel cancer (CAC) is one of the most common malignancies associated with inflammation. The aim of this study was to observe a new herbal formula “Xiaotan Sanjie Fang” (XTSJF) derived from the addition and subtraction theory of traditional medicine as an alternative to CAC treatment by “Daotan Decoction” and “Xiaojianzhong Decoction”, which are famous traditional Chinese medicine prescriptions for the treatment of inflammatory diseases of the digestive tract. We constructed a DMH/DSS inflammation‐associated colorectal cancer rat model and treated CAC rats with sulfasalazine and different doses of XTSJF. The results showed that the body weight of rats treated with different doses of XTSJF increased, which was still lower than that of normal rats; AFC decreased significantly compared with the model group and the positive control group, and the final dose was superior to the low dose; histological observation revealed that it could maintain the normal structure of colon tissue, while it could inhibit the secretion of VEGF, COX2, and AQP1 and the expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines IL‐6, IL‐1β, and TNF‐α, promote the expression of caspase‐3 and BAX and inhibit the expression of Bcl‐2. Taken together, these data suggest that XTSJF can inhibit COX‐2/VEGF expression to prevent the development of inflammation‐associated colorectal cancer.
Internal migration following adverse life events: Assessing the likelihood of return migration and migration toward family
Authors: Spring Amy , Gillespie Brian Joseph , Mulder Clara H.
Published: September 2023

There are well‐documented associations between life course changes and migration; yet, the occurrence, order, and timing of reasons for migrating are growing increasingly diverse. Migration following adverse life events, such as a divorce or an involuntary job loss, may be qualitatively distinct from migration undertaken for other reasons. Moves, especially long‐distance moves, following adverse life events, may be defined more by seeking family and familiar locations. Moreover, a heightened probability of migration may occur not only immediately after an adverse life event but also in the years after. We explore these questions in the US context with longitudinal data from the 1983 to 2019 waves of the Panel Study of Income Dynamics, which provides information on residential locations, locations of family members, and adverse life events for individuals over time. We focus on five specific events: divorce, the death of a spouse, involuntary job loss, the onset of a chronic physical health condition, and the onset of a chronic mental health condition. Using multivariate regression, we find that divorce and job loss induce long‐distance moves, especially return moves and moves towards family. Chronic physical conditions deter moving in general but increase the chances of return moves (after a period of time) and moves towards family. These results have implications for understanding migration as a response to adverse life events, both immediately and over time.
Potential impact of all‐sky assimilation of visible and infrared satellite observations compared with radar reflectivity for convective‐scale numerical weather prediction
Authors: Kugler Lukas , Anderson Jeffrey L. , Weissmann Martin
Published: September 2023

Although cloud‐affected satellite observations are heavily used for nowcasting applications, their use in regional data assimilation is very limited despite possible benefits for convective‐scale forecasts. In this article, we estimate the potential impact of assimilating cloud‐affected satellite observations of visible (0.6 m) and near thermal infrared wavelengths (6.2 and 7.3 m) relative to the impact of assimilating radar reflectivity observations. We employed observing‐system simulation experiments with a perfect‐model forecast for two cases of strong convective summertime precipitation. Observations are simulated using the radiative transfer model RTTOV/MFASIS and assimilated by the ensemble adjustment Kalman filter in the Data Assimilation Research Testbed. The Weather Research and Forecasting model at 2‐km grid resolution was used for forecasts. Results show that satellite observations can be nearly as beneficial as three‐dimensional radar reflectivity observations. Under favorable conditions, where the prior contains no error in the stage of storm development but only in horizontal position and strength, the assimilation of visible observations leads to 88% of the radar impact. Under more difficult conditions, the impact of visible and infrared observations still reached 50 and 79%, respectively.
An analytic journey in an industrial classification problem: How to use models to sharpen your questions
Authors: Kenett Ron S. , Gotwalt Chris , Poggi Jean‐Michel
Published: September 2023

The mathematician and bio‐scientist Sam Karlin is quoted stating that “The purpose of models is not to fit the data but to sharpen the question”. In this paper, we describe a journey between questions, models and data analysis to reach specific goals. This journey is typical in industrial, engineering, biology and social science applications. It contrasts regulated clinical research where a statistical analysis plan is declared before data collection. We consider random forests, ridge regression, lasso and elastic nets. To make our point, we use a case study of 63 sensors collected in the testing of an electronic system. The paper lists a sequence of questions and how they were tackled by statistical analysis to meet the analysis goal. Eventually, we were able to provide a robust parsimonious and effective model for predicting the system condition using a subset of the 63 sensors. In handling this problem, we develop and apply several innovative methods and insights that can prove useful in other contexts.
Radiation recall pneumonitis from immune checkpoint inhibitors after extra pulmonary radiation
Authors: Kao Leslie E. , Stover Diane
Published: September 2023

Radiation recall is an unpredictable, poorly understood inflammatory reaction within the confines of previously irradiated tissue that occurs following exposure to a systemic agent. In this article, we will focus on a subcategory of radiation recall, called radiation recall pneumonitis (RRP), precipitated by immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI). Historically, RRP can develop weeks to years after radiation treatment to the lung, most commonly after receiving certain chemotherapeutic agents, but more recently has been recognized in association with immunotherapy agents (ICIs). Up until now, RRP following exposure to ICIs has been described in patients who have received radiation to the lung itself. Here we present three cases of RRP in patients who received radiation to areas adjacent to the lung parenchyma, and developed pulmonary infiltrates in an area adjacent to the radiation field while on ICI therapy. Since ICI induced RRP is treatable and steroid sensitive, early recognition and treatment are important.
Bayesian hierarchical models incorporating study‐level covariates for multivariate meta‐analysis of diagnostic tests without a gold standard with application to COVID‐19
Authors: Wang Zheng , Murray Thomas A , Xiao Mengli , Lin Lifeng , Alemayehu Demissie , Chu Haitao
Published: September 2023

When evaluating a diagnostic test, it is common that a gold standard may not be available. One example is the diagnosis of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection using saliva sampling or nasopharyngeal swabs. Without a gold standard, a pragmatic approach is to postulate a “reference standard,” defined as positive if either test is positive, or negative if both are negative. However, this pragmatic approach may overestimate sensitivities because subjects infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 may still have double‐negative test results even when both tests exhibit perfect specificity. To address this limitation, we propose a Bayesian hierarchical model for simultaneously estimating sensitivity, specificity, and disease prevalence in the absence of a gold standard. The proposed model allows adjusting for study‐level covariates. We evaluate the model performance using an example based on a recently published meta‐analysis on the diagnosis of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and extensive simulations. Compared with the pragmatic reference standard approach, we demonstrate that the proposed Bayesian method provides a more accurate evaluation of prevalence, specificity, and sensitivity in a meta‐analytic framework.
The Novel Treatment of Children with Viral Warts Using Microwave Technology
Authors: Solomon Katie , Yip Vincent
Published: September 2023

Microwave therapy is emerging as an effective, well-tolerated and safe treatment modality for cutaneous warts but there is limited data in paediatric patients. In our cohort of 35 paediatric patients with recalcitrant warts, 68.6% (24/35) demonstrated complete resolution after an average of three microwave treatment sessions. There were no reports of ulceration or blistering but 22.9% (8/35) of patients reported pain that required discontinuation of microwave therapy. This study provides evidence that microwave therapy can be used for the treatment of warts in paediatric patients.
Exploiting deep reinforcement learning and metamorphic testing to automatically test virtual reality applications
Authors: de Andrade Stevão Alves , Nunes Fatima L. S. , Delamaro Márcio Eduardo
Published: September 2023

Despite the rapid growth and popularization of virtual reality (VR) applications, which have enabled new concepts for handling and solving existing problems through VR in various domains, practices related to software engineering have not kept up with this growth. Recent studies indicate that one of the topics that is still little explored in this area is software testing, as VR applications can be built for practically any type of purpose, making it difficult to generalize knowledge to be applied. In this paper, we present an approach that combines metamorphic testing, agent‐based testing and machine learning to test VR applications, focusing on finding collision and camera‐related faults. Our approach proposes the use of metamorphic relations to detect faults in collision and camera components in VR applications, as well as the use of intelligent agents for the automatic generation of test data. To evaluate the proposed approach, we conducted an experimental study on four VR applications, and the results showed an
of the solution ranging from 93% to 69%, depending on the complexity of the application tested. We also discussed the feasibility of extending the approach to identify other types of faults in VR applications. In conclusion, we discussed important trends and opportunities that can benefit both academics and practitioners.
Investigation of the vertically‐layered structure and surface roughness parameters of the urban boundary layer
Authors: Li Bo , Han Zhen , Zhang Xinxin , Yang Qingshan , Li Chen , Sun Lin
Published: September 2023

Atmospheric flow is the main factor affecting the wind load of urban buildings. The measured data observed continuously from the 325‐m‐tall Beijing Meteorological Tower (BMT) during 2013–2017 is employed to investigate the vertically‐layered structure and surface roughness parameters of the urban boundary layer. Based on the local similarity theory and analysis results of the atmospheric stability and local friction velocity, it can be determined that the height of 80 m is near the bottom of the inertial sub‐layer, the range below this height belongs to the roughness sub‐layer, 140 m belongs to the inertial sub‐layer, and 200 m and 280 m are in the mixing layer. The local friction velocity at 80 m can be considered a relatively reliable value as the friction velocity. Moreover, seasonal effect on local friction velocity is minimal. According to the fitting result of near‐neutral strong wind samples by the log‐law, it is concluded that to obtain a more accurate wind speed profile, all layers should be included when picking fitting heights. In addition, surface roughness parameters are affected by the wind direction and speed. The variation according to the wind direction corresponds to the topographical distribution surrounding the BMT, and the higher range of wind speed may be more applicable for estimating surface roughness parameters.
The Love of the Book: Students' Text Selection and Their Motivation to Read
Authors: Konrad Maggie Hoddinott
Published: September 2023

This study explores the relationship between the books students select for independent reading and their motivation to read. Instructional recommendations based on key findings are presented. To gather data, study participants completed the Motivation to Read Profile‐Revised. They also shared information about the books they had selected for independent reading on the day they completed the MRP. Analysis of the data revealed significant, positive correlations between students' enjoyment of their chosen books and their motivation to read. Enjoyment was also significantly and positively correlated with students' perceived value of reading, their self‐concept as readers, and the amount of time they reported reading during their free time. Associations between motivation and other features of the book (i.e., format, genre, number of pages) were not statistically significant. Follow‐up semi‐structured interviews provided insights into these findings. This study adds further support for the importance of matching children with compelling texts.
miR‐10b‐5p rescues leaky gut linked with gastrointestinal dysmotility and diabetes
Authors: Zogg Hannah , Singh Rajan , Ha Se Eun , Wang Zhuqing , Jin Byungchang , Ha Mariah , Dafinone Mirabel , Batalon Tylar , Hoberg Nicholas , Poudrier Sandra , Nguyen Linda , Yan Wei , Layden Brian T. , Dugas Lara R. , Sanders Kenton M. , Ro Seungil
Published: September 2023

Background/Aim

Diabetes has substantive co‐occurrence with disorders of gut‐brain interactions (DGBIs). The pathophysiological and molecular mechanisms linking diabetes and DGBIs are unclear. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of diabetes and gut dysmotility. We investigated whether impaired gut barrier function is regulated by a key miRNA, miR‐10b‐5p, linking diabetes and gut dysmotility.

Methods

We created a new mouse line using the Mb3Cas12a/Mb3Cpf1 endonuclease to delete mir‐10b globally. Loss of function studies in the mir‐10b knockout (KO) mice were conducted to characterize diabetes, gut dysmotility, and gut barrier dysfunction phenotypes in these mice. Gain of function studies were conducted by injecting these mir‐10b KO mice with a miR‐10b‐5p mimic. Further, we performed miRNA‐sequencing analysis from colonic mucosa from mir‐10b KO, wild type, and miR‐10b‐5p mimic injected mice to confirm (1) deficiency of miR‐10b‐5p in KO mice, and (2) restoration of miR‐10b‐5p after the mimic injection.

Results

Congenital loss of mir‐10b in mice led to the development of hyperglycemia, gut dysmotility, and gut barrier dysfunction. Gut permeability was increased, but expression of the tight junction protein Zonula occludens‐1 was reduced in the colon of mir‐10b KO mice. Patients with diabetes or constipation‐ predominant irritable bowel syndrome, a known DGBI that is linked to leaky gut, had significantly reduced miR‐10b‐5p expression. Injection of a miR‐10b‐5p mimic in mir‐10b KO mice rescued these molecular alterations and phenotypes.

Conclusions

Our study uncovered a potential pathophysiologic mechanism of gut barrier dysfunction that links both the diabetes and gut dysmotility phenotypes in mice lacking miR‐10b‐5p. Treatment with a miR‐10b‐5p mimic reversed the leaky gut, diabetic, and gut dysmotility phenotypes, highlighting the translational potential of the miR‐10b‐5p mimic.
Externally validated prediction models for pre‐eclampsia: systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Tiruneh S. A. , Vu T. T. T. , Moran L. J. , Callander E. J. , Allotey J. , Thangaratinam S. , Rolnik D. L. , Teede H. J. , Wang R. , Enticott J.
Published: September 2023

Objective

This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to evaluate the performance of existing externally validated prediction models for pre‐eclampsia (PE) (specifically, any‐onset, early‐onset, late‐onset and preterm PE).

Methods

A systematic search was conducted in five databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, Emcare, CINAHL and Maternity & Infant Care Database) and using Google Scholar/reference search to identify studies based on the Population, Index prediction model, Comparator, Outcome, Timing and Setting (PICOTS) approach until 20 May 2023. We extracted data using the CHARMS checklist and appraised the risk of bias using the PROBAST tool. A meta‐analysis of discrimination and calibration performance was conducted when appropriate.

Results

Twenty‐three studies reported 52 externally validated prediction models for PE (one preterm, 20 any‐onset, 17 early‐onset and 14 late‐onset PE models). No model had the same set of predictors. Fifteen any‐onset PE models were validated externally once, two were validated twice and three were validated three times, while the Fetal Medicine Foundation (FMF) competing‐risks model for preterm PE prediction was validated widely in 16 different settings. The most common predictors were maternal characteristics (prepregnancy body mass index, prior PE, family history of PE, chronic medical conditions and ethnicity) and biomarkers (uterine artery pulsatility index and pregnancy‐associated plasma protein‐A). The FMF model for preterm PE (triple test plus maternal factors) had the best performance, with a pooled area under the receiver‐operating‐characteristics curve (AUC) of 0.90 (95% prediction interval (PI), 0.76–0.96), and was well calibrated. The other models generally had poor‐to‐good discrimination performance (median AUC, 0.66 (range, 0.53–0.77)) and were overfitted on external validation. Apart from the FMF model, only two models that were validated multiple times for any‐onset PE prediction, which were based on maternal characteristics only, produced reasonable pooled AUCs of 0.71 (95% PI, 0.66–0.76) and 0.73 (95% PI, 0.55–0.86).

Conclusions

Existing externally validated prediction models for any‐, early‐ and late‐onset PE have limited discrimination and calibration performance, and include inconsistent input variables. The triple‐test FMF model had outstanding discrimination performance in predicting preterm PE in numerous settings, but the inclusion of specialized biomarkers may limit feasibility and implementation outside of high‐resource settings. © 2023 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Antibacterial activity of medicinal plants on the management of mastitis in dairy cows: A systematic review
Authors: Kaseke Tinotenda Blessing , Chikwambi Zedias , Gomo Calvin , Mashingaidze Arnold Bray , Murungweni Chrispen
Published: September 2023

Background

Mastitis is a disease of economic importance in dairy production systems. The common management regime for mastitis is the use of synthetic antibiotics, giving a new problem of antibiotic resistance. There is, therefore, a need to prospect for alternatives to conventional antibiotics from herbal plants.

Objectives

This systematic review evaluates the use of plants as alternatives for the control of mastitis in dairy cattle, focussing on the effectiveness of studied plants and plant‐based products and possible implications on the use of these products in livestock health.

Methodology

The PRISMA model was implemented with searches done in five electronic databases: Scopus, ScienceDirect, PubMed, Ovid and Research4Life. Data were extracted from 45 studies with 112 plant species from plant species belonging to 42 different families. The specific keywords were 'mastitis', 'dairy cows' and 'medicinal plants'.

Results

The most cited plant species includedAllium sativumL.,Azadirachta indicaandEucalyptus globulusLabill with the latter further exploring its components. Microbial species causing mastitis mainly wereStaphylococcus aureusandEscherichia coli. The extraction methods used included maceration approach using ethanol, methanol and water as solvents for phytochemicals and chromatographic techniques for essential oils. A few studies explored the mode of action, and toxicities of the herbal extracts as well as evaluating their efficacy in clinical trials using animal models.

Conclusion

Plants with defined levels of phytochemicals were essential sources of antibacterials. Standardisation of analytical methods is required.
Acute coenurosis in lambs
Authors: Abdollahi Mostafa , Lotfollahzadeh Samad , Shokrpoor Sara , Daneshi Mojtaba , Abolhasani Darounkola Moein
Published: September 2023

Six 100‐day‐old mixed‐breed lambs were examined in a farm with a semi‐intensive system due to neurologic signs. Cachexia, bilateral blindness, stupor, severe drowsiness and lethargy with left and right movements of the head and neck were recorded after awakening and stimulation. Lambs died 10 days after the onset of the clinical signs. The lambs were necropsied, and after routine parasitology, bacteriology and histopathology, the occurrence of acute coenurosis was confirmed due to finding multiple cystic structures in the brain tissue. All lambs of the herd were treated with albendazole (orally, 25 mg/kg, two doses with an interval of 14 days). All shepherd dogs were treated with popantel (orally, one tablet/10 kg, two doses with an interval of 14 days). The affected lambs died despite this treatment. No new case of the disease was observed after the initiation of control measures. The present study shows the importance of preventive measure against coenurosis in a semi‐intensive sheep farming system that includes implementing consistent parasite control programme in dogs being in contact with sheep.
VGOS VLBI Intensives Between macgo12m and wettz13s for the Rapid Determination of UT1-UTC
Authors: Schartner Matthias , Petrov Leonid , Plötz Christian , Lemoine Frank G. , Terrazas Eusebio , Soja Benedikt
Published: September 2023

In this work, we present a status update and preliminary results of the designated research and development VLBI Intensive program VGOS-INT-S, observed between macgo12m and wettz13s for the rapid determination of the Earth’s phase of rotation, expressed via UT1-UTC. Since 2021, 27 Intensive sessions have been observed successfully utilizing a special observation strategy alternating between high- and low-elevation scans for improved determination of delays caused by the neutral atmosphere. Between the end of January and mid of March 2022, VGOS-INT-S was among the most accurate Intensive programs. During this time, eight sessions were observed with an average formal error
$$\sigma _{\text{UT1-UTC}}$$

σ

UT1-UTC

of 3.1 µs and a bias w.r.t. IERS C04 of 1.1 µs. Later, the session performance decreased due to multiple technical difficulties.
Matter and Mind Matter
Authors: Birkoben Tom , Kohlstedt Hermann
Published: September 2023

As a result of a hundred million years of evolution, living animals have adapted extremely well to their ecological niche. Such adaptation implies species-specific interactions with their immediate environment by processing sensory cues and responding with appropriate behavior. Understanding how living creatures perform pattern recognition and cognitive tasks is of particular importance for computing architectures: by studying these information pathways refined over eons of evolution, researchers may be able to streamline the process of developing more highly advanced, energy efficient autonomous systems. With the advent of novel electronic and ionic components along with a deeper understanding of information pathways in living species, a plethora of opportunities to develop completely novel information processing avenues are within reach. Here, we describe the basal information pathways in nervous systems, from the local neuron level to the entire nervous system network. The dual importance of local learning rules is addressed, from spike timing dependent plasticity at the neuron level to the interwoven morphological and dynamical mechanisms of the global network. Basal biological principles are highlighted, including phylogenies, ontogenesis, and homeostasis, with particular emphasis on network topology and dynamics. While in machine learning system training is performed on virgin networks without any a priori knowledge, the approach proposed here distinguishes itself unambiguously by employing growth mechanisms as a guideline to design novel computing architectures. Including fundamental biological information pathways that explore the spatiotemporal fundamentals of nervous systems has untapped potential for the development of entirely novel information processing systems. Finally, a benchmark for neuromorphic systems is suggested.
Bio-inspired, Neuromorphic Acoustic Sensing
Authors: Lenk Claudia , Ved Kalpan , Durstewitz Steve , Ivanov Tzvetan , Ziegler Martin , Hövel Philipp
Published: September 2023

We present an overview of recent developments in the area of acoustic sensing that is inspired by biology and realized by micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS). To support understanding, an overview of the principles of human hearing is presented first. After the review of bio-inspired sensing systems, we continue with an outline of an adaptable acoustic MEMS-based sensor that offers adaptable sensing properties due to a simple, real-time feedback. The transducer itself is based on an active cantilever, which offers the advantage of an integrated deflection sensing based on piezoresistive elements and an integrated actuation using thermomechanical effects. We use a feedback loop, which is realized via a field-programmable gate array or analog circuits, to tune the dynamics of the sensor system. Thereby, the transfer characteristics can be switched between active, linear mode, for which the sensitivity and minimal detectable sound pressure level can be set by the feedback strength (similar to control of the quality factor), and an active nonlinear mode with compressive characteristics. The presented sensing system, which is discussed both from an experimental and theoretical point of view, offers real-time control for adaptation to different environments and application-specific sound detection with either linear or nonlinear characteristics.
Neuromorphic Circuits with Redox-Based Memristive Devices
Authors: Zahari Finn , Ziegler Martin , Doerwald Pouya , Wenger Christian , Kohlstedt Hermann
Published: September 2023

This chapter addresses opportunities for memristive devices in the framework of neuromorphic computing. Memristive devices are two-terminal circuit elements, comprising resistance and memory functionality. This simple and likewise ingeniously concept allows beneficial applications in numerous neuromorphic circuits. However, the electrical characteristics as well as the materials and technological framework of memristive devices need an optimization for each specific application. The chapter starts with a short overview of basic principles of biological data processing followed by a taxonomy of different bio-inspired computing architectures, divided into time-dependent and time-independent concepts. Furthermore, the requirements on particular memristive device properties, such as$$I\text {-}V$$I-Vlinearity, switching time, retention, number of states, time-dependency, and device variability, are discussed. The results of tangible examples of digital and analog memristive switching devices used in a deep neural network based on CMOS-integrated resistive random access memory devices (RRAMs) for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) detection, in stochastic learning, in bio-inspired analog learning, and, finally, in oscillatory computing are presented and discussed.
Integration of Memristive Devices into a 130 nm CMOS Baseline Technology
Authors: Mahadevaiah Mamathamba Kalishettyhalli , Lisker Marco , Fraschke Mirko , Marschmeyer Steffen , Perez Eduardo , Quesada Emilio Perez-Bosch , Wenger Christian , Mai Andreas
Published: September 2023

The two main features of the memristive devices which makes them the promising candidates for neuromorphic applications are low power consumption and CMOS compatibility. The monolithic integration of memristive devices with CMOS circuitry paves the way for in-memory computing. This chapter focuses on the factors governing the CMOS integration process. Firstly, the influence of CMOS baseline technology selection on the memristor module is briefly discussed. Secondly, the selection of metal level interconnects and their effect on the memristive device performance is explained. Further, the widely used deposition technique for the CMOS compatible memristive switching layers is presented. Finally, the implementation of the optimized process for the fabrication of the memristive module and its influence on the device performance is presented in terms of electrical characterization results.
Vorstellung LArS-Modul C: Critical Incidents
Authors: Kindlinger Marcus , Hahn-Laudenberg Katrin
Published: September 2023

In diesem Beitrag stellen wir das LArS-Modul C („Critical Incidents“) vor. Wir geben zunächst einen Überblick über den allgemeinen Aufbau und gehen auf die einzelnen Modulteile ein. Anschließend werden theoretische Hintergründe der Gestaltung diskutiert und praktische Möglichkeiten zum Einsatz der Videos und Lehr-/Lernmaterialien aufgezeigt. Die Auswahl der Unterrichtssituationen und die Gestaltung der Aufgaben erfolgte mit Blick auf zwei fachdidaktische Schwerpunkte: dem Umgang mit Präkonzepten sowie dem Umgang mit Kontroversität.
Produktionsverfahren von Brennstoffzellen und -systemen
Authors: Heimes Heiner Hans , Kampker Achim , Dorn Benjamin , Schön Christoph , Hagedorn Sebastian , Reims Philipp , Müller-Roden Moritz
Published: September 2023

Die Wertschöpfungskette von Brennstoffzellensystemen kann im Wesentlichen in drei übergeordnete Schritte unterteilt werden. Im ersten Schritt werden die Komponenten der Brennstoffzelle hergestellt, die den Kern des elektrochemischen Systems bilden. Die Produktion dieser Komponenten wird in Abschn. 16.1 erläutert. Im zweiten Schritt erfolgt die Fertigung des Brennstoffzellen-Stacks, innerhalb dessen die Komponenten zu Zellen assembliert und in Reihe verschaltet werden. Dieser Produktionsprozess ist Gegenstand von Abschn. 16.2. Abschließend wird in Abschn. 16.3 der dritte Schritt beschrieben: die Assemblierung des Brennstoffzellensystems.
Lösungsstrategien der Produktentstehung
Authors: Heimes Heiner Hans , Kampker Achim , Offermanns Christian , Sasse Konstantin , Gorsch Jonas , Kreisköther Kai , Förstmann Ruben , Nee Carsten
Published: September 2023

Kostensenkungen in der Automobilindustrie werden häufig durch das Generieren von Skaleneffekten oder Produktivitätssteigerungen durch Lerneffekte erzielt. Angesichts bereits hocheffizienter Produktionsprozesse in der Automobilindustrie ist das darin liegende Potenzial heute jedoch für den Durchbruch der Elektromobilität nicht ausreichend. Effizienzsteigerungen sind deshalb auch in den vorgelagerten Bereichen der Entwicklung notwendig, um Elektrofahrzeuge wirtschaftlich herstellen zu können. Dies beginnt mit einem gezielten Kompetenzaufbau, bezogen auf die Komponententechnologie sowie deren Fertigung. Dafür bietet es sich an, Zulieferer mit den entsprechenden Kompetenzen in die Spezifikation und die Gestaltung des Produkts einzubinden und Wertschöpfungsbeiträge entsprechend zu vernetzen. Hinsichtlich der Prozessgestaltung ist für die Elektromobilproduktion von besonderer Bedeutung, dass Skalierungsmöglichkeiten für die Produktionsprozesse vorgehalten werden. Ziel dabei ist es, im Verlauf der Serienfertigung auf Stückzahlsteigerungen reagieren zu können. Damit diese Herausforderungen gelöst werden können, bedarf es Lösungsstrategien in der Produktentstehung der Elektromobilität. Diese werden in den folgenden Kapiteln erläutert. Ziel dabei ist es, durch erhöhte Systemkompetenz, Reaktionsfähigkeit auf Marktentwicklung und flexible Skalierbarkeit auf Technologieebene künftige Elektromobile immer effizienter zu entwickeln (vgl. Abb. 19.1).
Gesetzliche Anforderungen
Authors: Heimes Heiner Hans , Kampker Achim , Offermanns Christian , Kehrer Mario , Sasse Konstantin , Dünnwald Simon , Vienenkötter Janis , Meyer Amira , Frieges Moritz , Frank Merlin , Vetter Björn , Morche Dirk-W. , Genuit Klaus , Elsen Olaf
Published: September 2023

Regulatorische Vorgaben dienen sowohl der Nutzergruppe als auch dem produzierenden Unternehmen. Da zum Erfolg der Elektromobilität die breite Akzeptanz in der Gesellschaft essenziell ist, schaffen gesetzliche Anforderungen einen Rahmen, um die Funktionalität, die Kompatibilität und die Sicherheit des Produktes zu gewährleisten. Gleichzeitig wird den Unternehmen durch Marktharmonisierung und Konformitätsvorgaben der Rahmen zur erfolgreichen Teilhabe an der Elektromobilität vorgegeben. Diese sind entsprechend verpflichtet, einen Nachweis gegenüber Technischen Prüfstellen und Diensten zu erbringen. Je nach Fahrzeugklasse und Zulassungsart können die Vorgaben variieren. Dabei gilt es, verschiedene Normen und Standards zu erfüllen, die aus dem unabdingbaren, interdisziplinären Austausch zwischen den Domänen Automobiltechnik, Elektro- und Energietechnik sowie Informations- und Kommunikationstechnik hervorgehen. Durch elektromobilitätsspezifische Systemkomponenten und der Hochvolt-Spannungsebene im Fahrzeug legen die Vorschriften ein besonderes Augenmerk auf deren sicherheitstechnische Erfüllung. Bekannte Themenfelder – etwa wie Noise, Vibration und Harshness (NVH) oder die elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit (EMV) – stellen die Entwicklungsabteilungen aufgrund der „lautlosen“ Elektromobilität und der hohen Spannungsebene vor Herausforderungen. Neben den Regelungen auf Gesamtfahrzeugebene liegt in der Elektromobilität der Fokus vor allem auf den Einzelkomponenten, beispielsweise der Antriebsbatterie oder den Hochvolt-Steckverbindungen. Insbesondere wegen der hohen Energiedichten gelten für die Antriebsbatterien strenge, länderspezifische Vorgaben, die für die Zulassung notwendig sind. Nur durch eine enge entwicklungsbegleitende Absicherung kann die Antriebsbatterie den gesetzlichen Anforderungen entsprechend auf den Markt gebracht werden.
Einsatzfelder von Elektrofahrzeugen
Authors: Kuhnimhof Tobias , Porschen Marcel
Published: September 2023

Trotz ihrer bisher weiterhin geringen Marktdurchdringung sind Elektrofahrzeuge bereits heute in vielen verschiedenen Einsatzfeldern vorzufinden. Für die kommenden Jahre ist in allen Bereichen mit einem deutlichen Bedeutungszuwachs der Elektromobilität zu rechen. Die folgenden Unterkapitel widmen sich der Etablierung der Elektromobilität in der Individualmobilität von Privathaushaushalten, im öffentlichen Verkehr, in Mobilitätskonzepten und im Wirtschaftsverkehr.
Ladebedarf und Ladeinfrastrukturbedarf
Authors: Porschen Marcel , Kühnel Fabian , Kuhnimhof Tobias , Vertgewall Chris Martin , Wehbring Niklas , Ulbig Andreas
Published: September 2023

Der heute dominierende, an vergleichsweise wenigen Standorten gebündelte Prozess der Energieaufnahme konventioneller Fahrzeuge in Form des Tankens dürfte durch die Elektromobilität auf vielfältige Weise dezentralisiert werden. Elektrofahrzeuge können an verschiedenen Standorten, an denen Strom verfügbar ist, geladen werden. Allerdings stehen nicht alle Lademöglichkeiten auch allen Fahrzeugen zur Verfügung.
Gezeitenwende in der Automobilindustrie
Authors: Kasperk Garnet , Fluchs Sarah , Hausmann Julius
Published: September 2023

Ökologische Regulierungen und veränderte Mobilitätsbedürfnisse treiben die Entwicklung alternativer Antriebstechnologien voran. Die globale Flotte der Elektrofahrzeuge wuchs im Jahr 2020 auf drei Millionen und 4,2 % der weltweiten Fahrzeugverkäufe. Dieses Wachstum der Registrierungen von Elektrofahrzeugen um 41 % im Vergleich zum Vorjahr ist auf technologische Entwicklungen, Förderpolitik und eine allmählich zunehmende Kundenakzeptanz zurückzuführen. Für das Jahr 2030 wird der Anteil rein batterieelektrisch betriebener Fahrzeuge (BEV) bei Neuwagenverkäufen auf etwa 35 % geschätzt.
Elemente der elektromobilorientierten Geschäftsmodelle
Authors: Kasperk Garnet , Fluchs Sarah , Hausmann Julius
Published: September 2023

Ein Modell ist die abstrakte Darstellung der Wirklichkeit, die sich aus Einzelelementen und deren Verknüpfungen zusammensetzt. Ein Geschäftsmodell ist demnach eine abstrahierte Darstellung der Funktionsweise eines Geschäfts. Grundlage eines Geschäftsmodells ist das Wertschöpfungsmodell. Werden wie im Fall der Elektromobilität integrierte Wertschöpfungsketten dekonstruiert, lösen sich ehemals fest verbundene Elemente der Kette voneinander. An ihren Grenzen wird ein Übergang in neue Geschäftsfelder möglich. Grundsätzlich werden drei Elemente für eine methodische Darstellung des Geschäftsmodells genutzt (Abb. 34.1).
Demontage von Lithium-Ionen-Batterien
Authors: Heimes Heiner Hans , Kampker Achim , Offermanns Christian , Klohs Domenic , Kreisköther Kim
Published: September 2023

Die weltweiten Verkaufszahlen für elektrische Fahrzeuge in sämtlichen Segmenten steigen immer weiter an. Während sich die Corona-Pandemie im globalen Vergleich negativ auf die Fahrzeugmärkte ausgewirkt hat, stieg der Absatz von Elektrofahrzeugen vor allem in Europa stark. Auch die für die laufende Dekade prognostizierten Verkaufszahlen von Elektrofahrzeugen spiegeln dieses Bild wider. So werden bereits 2025 jährlich Batterien für rund elf Millionen E-Mobile benötigt. Dieser Wert wird sich bis zum Jahr 2030 auf etwa 30 Millionen jährliche Verkäufe fast verdreifachen. Daraus ergeben sich für Batteriesysteme unweigerlich einige Fragestellungen mit Blick auf das „End of Life“ und eine damit verbundene nachhaltige Verwertung der verbauten Komponenten und Materialien. Um den ökonomischen Kreislauf zu schließen und Batteriesysteme abhängig von ihrem Zustand in die verschiedenen Re-X-Szenarien (Re-Use, Remanufacturing, Refurbishment und Recycling) überführen zu können, gewinnt die Demontage eine immer größere Bedeutung.