bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Streaming Media over LEO Satellite Networking: A Measurement-Based Analysis and Optimization
Authors: Fang Hao , Zhao Haoyuan , Wang Feng , Chou Yi Ching , Chen Long , Shi Jianxin , Liu Jiangchuan
Published: September 2024

Recently, Low Earth orbit Satellite Networks (LSNs) have been suggested as a critical and promising component toward high-bandwidth and low-latency global coverage in the upcoming 6G communication infrastructure. SpaceX's Starlink is arguably the largest and most operational LSN to date. There have been practical uses of Starlink across diverse networked applications, including those with stringent demands, such as multimedia applications. Given the mixed and inconsistent feedback from end users, it remains unclear whether today's LSNs, in particular Starlink, are ready for realtime multimedia. In this paper, we present a systematic measurement study on realtime multimedia services over Starlink, seeking insights into their operations and performance in this new generation of networking. Our findings demonstrate that Starlink can handle most video-on-demand (VoD) and live-streaming services with properly configured buffers but suffers from video pauses or audio cut-offs during interactive videoconferencing. We identify the key factors that impact the performance of LSN, particularly for multimedia services, including satellite switching, routing strategies and weather conditions. Our findings offer valuable hints into future enhancements for multimedia services over LSNs. Specifically, we further propose a Weather Aware Buffer Based Rate Adaption algorithm based on our observations on weather impacts, which is capable of maximizing the quality of experience for VoD applications with seamless integration of dynamic weather conditions.
A Review of Techniques for Ageing Detection and Monitoring on Embedded Systems
Authors: Lanzieri Leandro , Martino Gianluca , Fey Goerschwin , Schlarb Holger , Schmidt Thomas C. , Wählisch Matthias
Published: September 2024

Embedded digital devices are progressively deployed in dependable or safety-critical systems. These devices undergo significant hardware ageing, particularly in harsh environments. This increases their likelihood of failure. It is crucial to understand ageing processes and to detect hardware degradation early for guaranteeing system dependability. In this survey, we review the core ageing mechanisms, and identify and categorize general working principles of ageing detection and monitoring techniques for Commercial-Off-the-Shelf (COTS) components that are prevalent in embedded systems: Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), microcontrollers, Systems-on-Chips (SoCs), and their power supplies. From our review, we find that online techniques are more widely applied on FPGAs than on other components, and see a rising trend towards machine learning application for analysing hardware ageing. Based on the reviewed literature, we identify research opportunities and potential directions of interest in the field. With this work, we intend to facilitate future research by systematically presenting all main approaches in a concise way.
Special Issue on The Workshop on MAthematical performance Modeling and Analysis (MAMA 2024)
Authors: Squillante Mark S.
Published: September 2024

The complexity of computer systems, networks and applications, as well as the advancements in computer technology, continue to grow at a rapid pace. Mathematical analysis, modeling and optimization have been playing, and continue to play, an important role in research studies to investigate fundamental issues and tradeoffs at the core of performance problems in the design and implementation of complex computer systems, networks and applications.
Risk-Sensitive Online Algorithms
Authors: Christianson Nicolas , Sun Bo , Low Steven , Wierman Adam
Published: September 2024

We study the design of risk-sensitive online algorithms, in which risk measures are used in the competitive analysis of randomized online algorithms.
Hybrid Priority Queue and its Applications
Authors: Li Zhouzi , Harchol-Balter Mor , Scheller-Wolf Alan
Published: September 2024

Priority queues are well understood in queueing theory. However, they are somewhat restrictive in that the low-priority customers suffer far greater waiting times than the highpriority customers. In this short paper, we introduce a novel generalization of a two-class priority queue, which we call Hybrid. We prove that Hybrid has a much broader achievability region than strict priority, allowing for a much greater range of waiting time pairs. We demonstrate settings where this new flexibility can increase the revenue obtained by a service system (like airport TSA) selling priority.
Bounds on M/G/k Scheduling Under Moderate Load
Improving on SRPT-k and Tightening Lower Bounds
Authors: Grosof Isaac , Wang Ziyuan
Published: September 2024

A well-designed scheduling policy can significantly improve the performance of a queueing system, without requiring any additional resources. While scheduling is well-understood in the single-server setting, much less is known in the multiserver setting. Results are particularly sparse in moderate load settings, outside of the asymptotic regimes of heavy traffic and light traffic. Multiserver SRPT is known to achieve asymptotically optimal mean response time as in the limit as load approaches capacity, and no better policy is known outside of that asymptotic regime.
Steady-State Convergence of the Continuous-Time JSQ System with General Distributions in Heavy Traffic
Authors: Dai J. G. , Guang Jin , Xu Yaosheng
Published: September 2024

This paper studies the continuous-time join-the-shortestqueue (JSQ) system with general interarrival and service distributions.
On Quantum Algorithms for Efficient Solutions of General Classes of Structured Markov Processes
Authors: Kalantzis Vasileios , Squillante Mark S. , Ubaru Shashanka
Published: September 2024

Multidimensional Markov processes arise in many aspects of the mathematical performance analysis, modeling and optimization of computer systems and networks. Within this context, general classes of structured Markov processes are of particular importance in both theory and practice.
How can we Teach Workload Modeling in CS Systems Classes?
Authors: Abad Cristina L.
Published: September 2024

In Computer Science curriculum guidelines, topics related to Performance Engineering have typically been listed as small, elective components, if at all. Even less has been said about how and when to teach workload modeling. In this paper, I discuss how Systems courses are a good place to include this topic, including suggestions on how to do so that are rooted in personal experience, existing literature and examples from course programs found online. The ideas presented in this paper were first presented as an invited talk at the TeaPACS 2024 workshop, and the paper was written post-workshop, so the feedback and discussions of the TeaPACS speakers and attendees have been incorporated into it.
3-Methyl-2-oxazolidinone (JEFFSOL® MEOX) as a Substitute Solvent for NMP in Battery Manufacturing
Authors: Marshall Jean E. , White Victoria , Zhang Ke , Bellchambers Philip , Gazda Jerzy , Copley Mark , Piper Louis F. J. , Capener Matthew J.
Published: September 2024

This work presents 3-Methyl-2-oxazolidinone (JEFFSOL® MEOX) as a substitute solvent for N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) in the manufacture of Li-ion batteries. NMP is a good solvent for polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF, a common binder material), and also has a high boiling point (202 °C), allowing for gradual drying of electrode slurries to form homogeneous coatings. However, NMP has a reprotoxic effect and its use is attracting increasing legislative pressure; it would be advantageous to the battery-making industry to find a more benign alternative. Of the few other solvents that will readily dissolve PVDF, examples such as dimethylformamide are also significantly toxic, so further investigation is necessary to find a credible alternative solvent system. We show that JEFFSOL® MEOX (boiling point 225 °C) is capable of dissolving PVDF at accessible temperatures (40 °C–50 °C), and that at a similar ratio of active material:binder:solvent, both JEFFSOL® MEOX and NMP produce electrode slurries with a viscosity of 5–6 Pa.s at 25 °C and at a shear rate of 10 s−1. Cells formed using JEFFSOL® MEOX-made and NMP-made cathode coatings showed comparable electrochemical performance.
Rotating Disk Electrode Study of Sm(III)/Sm(II) in LiCl-KCl Eutectic Molten Salt
Authors: Yang Wonseok , Choi Suhee , Park Tae-Hong , Choi Sungyeol , Bae Sang-Eun
Published: September 2024

Understanding the redox reactions of fission products in molten salts is crucial for developing pyroprocessing techniques for used nuclear fuel. A rotating disk electrode is useful for investigating the electrochemical reactions with controlled mass transfer conditions, but its application has been limited in high-temperature corrosive molten salts. This study employs a tungsten (W) rotating disk electrode (RDE) to measure the electrochemical and kinetic properties of the Sm(III)/Sm(II) redox reaction in a LiCl-KCl eutectic molten salt. The properties of the Sm(III)/Sm(II) redox reaction, including diffusion coefficients, exchange current densities, charge transfer coefficients, activation energies, and Tafel slopes, were determined over a temperature range of 723–803 K using limiting currents in linear sweep voltammetry at various rotating speeds and mass transfer-corrected Tafel plots. The kinetic parameters obtained using the rotating disk electrode system can be useful for optimizing the design of pyroprocessing techniques.
Electrochemical Behaviour of Nickel(II)-Rhenium(VII) And Electrodeposition of Nickel-Rhenium Alloy from Choline Chloride - Urea Deep Eutectic Solvent
Authors: Jayakumar Mani , Karthikeyan M. , Krishna G. Murali , Andrew Chrysanthus
Published: September 2024

The electrochemical behaviour of nickel(II)-rhenium(VII) and the electrodeposition of nickel-rhenium alloy using choline chloride: 2 Urea deep eutectic solvent (Reline DES) is reported. Speciation of nickel(II)-rhenium(VII) in Reline DES was studied using UV -Visible spectroscopy. Cyclic voltammetry of Ni2+-ReO4
− in Reline indicates the simultaneous reduction of two metal ions at glassy carbon electrode controlled by non-reversible diffusion process. Chronoamperograms obtained for the reduction of Ni2+-ReO4
− suggests nucleation and three-dimensional growth of bimetallic phase on electrode surface followed progressive nucleation. Electrodeposition of nickel—rhenium alloy was carried out on copper substrates under galvanostatic and potentiostatic conditions. Smooth and uniform deposits were obtained by galvanostatic deposition. X-ray diffraction analysis of the deposit confirmed it to be nickel-rhenium alloy (at −1.2 V) in amorphous form which upon annealing at 1000 °C crystallizes into hexagonal phase with concurrent morphology change from spherical particles to irregular polygons.
Nomograms for Predicting High Hospitalization Costs and Prolonged Stay among Hospitalized Patients with pAECOPD
Authors: Dilixiati Nafeisa , Lian Mengyu , Hou Ziliang , Song Jie , Yang Jingjing , Lin Ruiyan , Wang Jinxiang
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to develop nomograms to predict high hospitalization costs and prolonged stays in hospitalized acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) patients with community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP), also known as pAECOPD. A total of 635 patients with pAECOPD were included in this observational study and divided into training and testing sets. Variables were initially screened using univariate analysis, and then further selected using a backward stepwise regression. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to establish nomograms. The predictive performance of the model was evaluated using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, area under the curve (AUC), calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA) in both the training and testing sets. Finally, the logistic regression analysis showed that elevated white blood cell count (WBC>10 × 109 cells/l), hypoalbuminemia, pulmonary encephalopathy, respiratory failure, diabetes, and respiratory intensive care unit (RICU) admissions were risk factors for predicting high hospitalization costs in pAECOPD patients. The AUC value was 0.756 (95% CI: 0.699–0.812) in the training set and 0.792 (95% CI: 0.718–0.867) in the testing set. The calibration plot and DCA curve indicated the model had good predictive performance. Furthermore, decreased total protein, pulmonary encephalopathy, reflux esophagitis, and RICU admissions were risk factors for predicting prolonged stays in pAECOPD patients. The AUC value was 0.629 (95% CI: 0.575–0.682) in the training set and 0.620 (95% CI: 0.539–0.701) in the testing set. The calibration plot and DCA curve indicated the model had good predictive performance. We developed and validated two nomograms for predicting high hospitalization costs and prolonged stay, respectively, among hospitalized patients with pAECOPD. This trial is registered with ChiCTR2000039959.
Comparison of Time to Pregnancy in In Vitro Fertilisation between Endometriosis and Nonendometriosis
Authors: Bayuaji Hartanto , Susilo Artha Falentin Putri , Tjandraprawira Kevin Dominique
Published: September 2024

Background. This study is to compare the time to pregnancy (TTP) between patients with endometriosis and nonendometriosis undergoing in vitro fertilisation (IVF).Material and Methods.This is an observational retrospective cohort study. We included 291 patients (53 with endometriosis and 238 without endometriosis) achieving biochemical pregnancy, whether singleton or multifetal (serum beta‐hCG >5 mIU/mL), between 1st January 2014 and 31st March 2020. We excluded patients with incomplete case notes and those declining participation. Time to pregnancy is the interval between the time when infertility was established to the date of confirmed biochemical pregnancy, expressed in months. Endometriosis diagnosis includes any form of endometriosis through surgical confirmation. A statistical analysis was done through the Mann–Whitney U test. Time to pregnancy was assessed through the Kaplan–Meier test. A p value <0.05 is considered statistically significant. Results. Endometriosis patients had a shorter infertility duration (4 years vs. 5 years, p = 0.024). Both groups had similar median age and body mass index at presentation. There was no significant difference in the TTP between endometriosis and nonendometriosis groups (57.7 vs. 70.9 months, p = 0.060), further confirmed by a Cox regression test incorporating confounders (IVF protocol (OR: 1.482, 95% CI 0.667–3.292, and p = 0.334) and type of the cycle (OR 1.071, 95% CI 0.803–1.430, and p = 0.640)). The endometriosis group reached the maximum cumulative pregnancy rate at around 169 months postinfertility diagnosis, whilst the nonendometriosis group at around 255 months postinfertility diagnosis. Conclusion. Time to pregnancy between endometriosis and nonendometriosis is not significantly different. However, infertility among patients with endometriosis tends to be shorter.
Efficacy and Safety of Pulsed Radiofrequency of Dorsal Root Ganglion in Elderly Patient Population With Acute and Subacute Zoster‐Related Pain
Authors: Dağıstan Gözde , Erdine Serdar
Published: September 2024

Background:Herpes zoster (HZ) is typically characterized by a burning, stabbing pain, hyperalgesia, and allodynia. In some patients, despite the lesions resolving, the pain persists and becomes chronic. If the pain continues for more than 6 months after the onset of the pain phase, this condition is called postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). The frequency and severity of PHN increase with advancing age. The pain in PHN can be severe, sometimes resistant to medications, significantly impacting the patients’ quality of life. The elderly patient population cannot tolerate the medications due to their side effects. In this situation, interventional pain treatment should be applied in the elderly patient group who have a high risk of developing PHN compared to other age groups.

Method:We included patients over 65 years of age with HZ‐related pain who underwent dorsal root ganglion (DRG) pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) within the first 6 months from the onset of pain. We divided these patients into 2 groups: patients who underwent intervention within the first 1 month from the onset of pain and patients who underwent intervention between 1 and 6 months. We recorded medication doses and Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) scores before the procedure and at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months after the procedure.

Results:After the DRG PRF treatment, NRS scores improved significantly in both groups (p< 0.05). The mean NRS score in the early DRG PRF group was significantly lower than that in the late DRG PRF group (p< 0.05). The medication doses in the early DRG PRF group were significantly lower than those in the other group (p< 0.05).

Conclusions: Interventional pain treatment should be applied as soon as possible in the elderly patient group who do not respond to first‐line medical treatment or cannot tolerate medical treatment due to its side effects and who have a high risk of developing PHN compared to other age groups. DRG PRF, applied in the early period of medical treatment‐resistant acute HZ, is safe and effective, preventing the progression to PHN.
Pitfalls in Diagnosis: JMML versus KMT2A Rearranged Juvenile AML
Authors: Vanheeswijck Liesbeth , Tewari Sanjay , Dowse Robin , Potter Nicola , Jovanovic Jelena , Furness Caroline L. , Van Rijswijk Elsje
Published: September 2024

Background. Lysine methyltransferase 2A (KMT2A) rearrangements are commonly found in juvenile acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). Although distinct diseases, there is a known clinical overlap between KMT2A‐rearranged AML and juvenile myelomonocytic leukaemia (JMML). Both occur in infancy or early childhood and present with abnormal monocytosis. Case Report. We report a case of a 20‐month‐old girl, who presented with lethargy, recurrent infections, bruising, and marked hepatosplenomegaly. JMML was suspected after initial work‐up, revealing an abnormal monocytosis without blast excess on immunophenotyping. The additional cytogenetic and molecular diagnostics, revealing a KMT2A rearrangement, was decisive for the confirmation of AML. Conclusion. This case highlights the challenges of diagnosing KMT2A‐rearranged monocytic AML and the importance of careful morphological assessment in partnership with cytogenetic and molecular diagnostics to distinguish between KMT2A‐rearranged AML and JMML. Moreover, the emerging role of molecular monitoring in AML is highlighted.
Table 3 from Phase I Study of Simlukafusp Alfa (FAP-IL2v) with or without Atezolizumab in Japanese Patients with Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Koyama Takafumi , Yonemori Kan , Shimizu Toshio , Sato Jun , Kondo Shunsuke , Sudo Kazuki , Yoshida Tatsuya , Katsuya Yuki , Imaizumi Tatsuki , Enomoto Masashi , Seki Ryoko , Yamamoto Noboru
Published: September 2024

Summary of PK parameters
Supplementary Table 4 from Phase I Study of Simlukafusp Alfa (FAP-IL2v) with or without Atezolizumab in Japanese Patients with Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Koyama Takafumi , Yonemori Kan , Shimizu Toshio , Sato Jun , Kondo Shunsuke , Sudo Kazuki , Yoshida Tatsuya , Katsuya Yuki , Imaizumi Tatsuki , Enomoto Masashi , Seki Ryoko , Yamamoto Noboru
Published: September 2024

Table S4 shows the duration of treatment and dose.
Supplementary Table 3 from Phase I Study of Simlukafusp Alfa (FAP-IL2v) with or without Atezolizumab in Japanese Patients with Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Koyama Takafumi , Yonemori Kan , Shimizu Toshio , Sato Jun , Kondo Shunsuke , Sudo Kazuki , Yoshida Tatsuya , Katsuya Yuki , Imaizumi Tatsuki , Enomoto Masashi , Seki Ryoko , Yamamoto Noboru
Published: September 2024

Table S3 shows the representativeness of study participants.
Hearing “New Englandly”: Emily Dickinson's Rhymes
Authors: Areshka Vladislav
Published: September 2024

If we could hear how people spoke in the past, would we perceive the same kind of poetry? Reconstructing Emily Dickinson's original pronunciation of nineteenth-century New England, this essay casts new light on how the poet could have sounded her own verses and how her famous “slant” rhymes have been misheard.
Probiotics/prebiotics/synbiotics and human neuropsychiatric outcomes: an umbrella review
Authors: Du Q. , Li Q. , Liu C. , Liao G. , Li J. , Yang J. , Zhang Q. , Gong X. , Li K.
Published: September 2024

The neuropsychiatric effects of probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics have been gaining attention since the rise of microbial-gut-brain axis research. Nevertheless, some of the findings are inconsistent, and few studies have analysed the similarities and differences in the neuropsychiatric effects of the three comprehensively. To reveal the respective neuropsychiatric effects of probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics and synthesise the similarities and differences among the three effects, 47 meta-analyses with 12 types of neuropsychiatric results were integrated under an umbrella review. Probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics intake might all be associated with improvements in some neuropsychiatric outcomes, including neuropsychological test outcomes (probiotic and prebiotic), hepatic encephalopathy outcomes (probiotic, prebiotic, and synbiotic), instant memory in patients with Alzheimer’s disease (probiotic), depressive symptoms (probiotic, prebiotic and synbiotic), mood states and psychiatric distress (probiotic), overall mental health (probiotic), neurological function (probiotic), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) concentration (probiotic and synbiotic), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) score (probiotic). All three are similar in that the intake of probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics might be associated with improvements in hepatic encephalopathy outcomes and depressive symptoms, both probiotic and synbiotic intake might be associated with elevated BDNF concentrations, and both probiotic and prebiotic intake might be associated with improved neuropsychological test results. The difference between the three is that the neuropsychiatric effects of probiotics might be more widespread and be reflected in the fact that probiotic intake might also be associated with improvements in mood states and psychiatric distress, overall mental health, neurological function, Alzheimer’s disease patients’ instant memory, and PSQI score. Probiotics might be the best and most promising option for improving neuropsychiatric outcomes. In the future, in addition to requiring more high-quality meta-analyses, further preclinical studies are needed to explore specific relevant mechanisms and determine true causal relationships.
E-motional Landscapes: Marriage and Custody Litigation in Nigeria, 1940s–1960s
Authors: Chapdelaine Robin P.
Published: September 2024

In this article I examine socio-cultural landscapes where personal relationships are formed, fractured and underscored by physical movement across space. I explore court cases brought forth in South-Eastern Nigeria from the 1940s to the 1960s to settle betrothal, marriage, and custody disputes. I argue that these cases represent patterns of e-motion, a form of migration triggered by family decisions, third party interlocutors, emotional bonds and asperity. Using court case testimony transcripts, court petitions, domestic violence complaints, personal letters, unpublished memoirs and other documents, I show how Nigerians sought legal assistance from district courts when local native courts failed to satisfy the aggrieved. This article highlights how family and social expectations shaped and limited migratory practices for subaltern women and girls, resulting in e-motional landscapes. Engendered by emotional stress, rage, fear and violence, which ultimately shaped their livelihoods.
Effect of seasonality and pretreatment of the organic fraction of municipal solid waste for black soldier fly larvae production
Authors: Jucker C. , Savoldelli S. , Colombini S. , Malabusini S. , Cesari V. , Toschi I. , Pavesi M. , Scaglia B. , Papa G. , D’Imporzano G. , Adani F.
Published: September 2024

This study investigated the potential of using the organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW) as a rearing substrate for black soldier fly larvae (BSF). Samples of OFSMW were collected in Italy in four different seasons of the year and fed untreated or pulped to the larvae. The larvae successfully grew on OFMSW with minimal impact from either season or pretreatment (pulped vs untreated). Notably, all treatments achieved high larval survival rates (above 89.2%) and a development time within 11 days. Season and pretreatment influenced the chemical composition of the OFMSW (e.g. higher carbohydrates and organic matter in untreated samples). Compared to BSF grown on pulped samples, larvae grown on untreated samples had higher lipid (34.4 vs 28.5% DM), organic matter (90.7 vs 83.6% DM) and apparent metabolizable energy (22.0 vs 15.3 MJ/kg DM) contents. In vitro protein digestibility (%) varied by season, reaching the highest values in autumn (78.6%); moreover, the crude protein digestibily of BSF reared on untreated samples was lower than that on pulped samples (68.8 vs 73.3%). The chitin content was not affected by pretreatment or season (on average 5.45% on DM). Overall, the study demonstrates the feasibility of the use of OFMSW for BSF larvae production. Nevertheless, observed variability in larval nutrient composition highlights the need for process optimization to ensure consistent larval characteristics.
How Does Technology Affect the Performance of Small and Medium Farms in Tanzania?
Authors: John Yuslida
Published: September 2024

The scholarly nature of this work assessed the implications of the adopted digital technology through diffusion innovation theory on the improvement of small and medium farmers. Through a cross-sectional research design and survey method, information was gathered from the sample of 293. Structural equation modeling by the software of amos version 21 indicated that only observation, can improve the performance of small and medium farmers in Tanzania. This is due to the complexity of the innovative technology among this group of farmers, which is associated with a lack of testing, which subsequently leads to incompatible systems. As technological adoption in various sectors of Tanzania has now become inevitable in all sectors, with no exception to the agricultural sector, more efforts by all stakeholders who are alarmed with this sector should not be relaxed. Policymakers and decision-makers have to understand various mechanisms that help small and medium farmers understand technological characteristics.
Intercomparisons of the Latest Precipitation Estimates from Satellite, Reanalysis, and Merged Products over Alaska
Authors: Song Yang , Behrangi Ali , Yong Bin , Wang Guoqing , Han Dawei , Zhang Yang
Published: September 2024

This study uses National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) Stage IV (Stage IV) precipitation data over the state of Alaska to assess and cross compare precipitation estimates from the most recent versions of multiple precipitation products, including satellite-based passive microwave (PMW) [Special Sensor Microwave Imager/Sounder (SSMIS)–F17, Microwave Humidity Sounder (MHS)–MetOp-B, MHS–NOAA-19, Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer 2 (AMSR2), Advanced Technology Microwave Sounder (ATMS), and Global Precipitation Measurement Microwave Imager (GMI) in V05 and V07], active microwave [AMW or radar; Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) dual-frequency precipitation radar (DPR) in V06 and V07], combined active and passive microwave (DPRGMI in V06 and V07), infrared [Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS)], reanalysis [fifth major global reanalysis produced by ECMWF (ERA5) and Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis for Research and Applications, version 2 (MERRA-2), and satellite–gauge [Global Precipitation Climatology Project (GPCP) V1.3 and GPCP V3.2] products. PMW estimates are generally improved in V07 compared to V05 in terms of overall bias, pattern, and capturing precipitation extremes. DPR and DPRGMI show low skill in capturing different precipitation features. ERA5 and MERRA-2 show the highest agreement with Stage IV for all precipitation rate metrics. AIRS and GPCP capture the overall precipitation pattern and magnitude fairly well, performing better than the radar and comparable to the PMW V07 products, although the geographical maps suggest that they provide a relatively smoothed spatial distribution of mean precipitation rates. The outcomes of this study shed light on the performance of various precipitation products over Alaska (partly representing high-latitude regions) and can be useful to guide the development of multisensor products.
Predictability of Severe Convective Storm Environments in Global Ensemble Forecast System, Version 12, Reforecasts
Authors: Berrington Andrew H. , Hoogewind Kimberly A. , Clark Adam J. , Taszarek Mateusz
Published: September 2024

Prediction of severe convective storms at time scales of 2–4 weeks is of interest to forecasters and stakeholders due to their impacts on life and property. Prediction of severe convective storms on this time scale is challenging, since the large-scale weather patterns that drive this activity begin to lose dynamic predictability beyond week 1. Previous work related to severe convective storms on the subseasonal time scale has mostly focused on observed relationships with teleconnections. The skill of numerical weather prediction forecasts of convective-related variables has been comparatively less explored. In this study over the United States, a forecast evaluation of variables relevant in the prediction of severe convective storms is conducted using Global Ensemble Forecast System, version 12, reforecasts at lead times of up to 4 weeks. We find that kinematic and thermodynamic fields are predicted with skill out to week 3 in some cases, while composite parameters struggle to achieve meaningful skill into week 2. Additionally, using a novel method of weekly summations of daily maximum composite parameters, we suggest that the aggregation of certain variables may assist in providing additional predictability beyond week 1. These results should serve as a reference for forecast skill for the relevant fields and help inform the development of convective forecasting tools at time scales beyond current operational products.

Significance Statement

Prediction of severe weather beyond 1 week in advance is of interest to stakeholders given their impacts on life and property. In this study, we evaluate 20 years of forecast data generated by a numerical model ensemble to determine whether variables relevant in severe weather forecasts can be predicted in weeks 2–4. The variables with the best skill measures generally represent large-scale weather patterns that are more predictable on longer time scales, although some manipulation of other severe weather parameters yielded additional results. We suggest that the results found in this study can inform future work that assesses the predictability of severe weather in weeks 2–4 using more complex methods such as machine learning.
Natural Burial: An Exploratory Study of Attitudes and Practices Among Funeral Directors in the US
Authors: Ticho Amy Z. , Barry David
Published: September 2024

The market for natural burial has increased for a variety of reasons including positions on environmental and sustainability issues, religious and spiritual considerations, and cost. While there is growing research on popular perceptions from potential consumers, very little is known about the industry actors, institutions, and structures that support natural burial practices. This study examines the knowledge, impressions, attitudes, and practices pertaining to natural burial among funeral directors through a multi-state, anonymous survey ( n = 346). This study offers important contributions to the field of death studies, in that it helps to uncover funeral directors’ perspectives, contributes to an understanding of the social aspects of natural burial, and sets the stage for additional research on this topic. Further, the project examines natural burial through a sociological lens, with consideration of the implications for professionals.
Clinical Learning Environment: Perceptions of Palestinian Nursing Students
Authors: Hammad Bahaaeddin M. , Eqtait Faeda A. , Salameh Basma , Ayed Ahmad , Fashafsheh Imad H.
Published: September 2024

Clinical learning environment play a vital role in bridging theory with practice, equipping nursing students with essential skills for patient care and support their smooth transition into the nursing workforce. To assess Palestinian nursing students’ perceptions of clinical learning environment and supervision. A total of 308 undergraduate nursing students were conveniently recruited from Arab American University-Palestine for this descriptive cross-sectional study. Data collection utilized the Arabic version of the Clinical Learning Environment and Supervision plus Nurse Teacher scale. In general, nursing students expressed positive perceptions regarding their clinical learning environment ( M = 130.56 ± 21.03), with the “supervisory relationship” and “role of nurse teacher” scoring highest ( M = 3.85 ± 0.82 each). Conversely, the lowest rating was observed for “leadership style of the ward manager” ( M = 3.8 ± 0.84). Fourth-year students and those trained in public hospitals showed significantly more positive perceptions ( P < .001). Furthermore, students with higher professional satisfaction had more positive perceptions of the clinical learning environment ( P < .001). The positive perceptions of Palestinian nursing students underscore the importance of the supervisory relationship and nurse teacher. However, finding suggest an area for improvement in the leadership style of the ward manager, emphasizing the necessity for strengthened partnership between nursing faculties and healthcare facilities. These insights expand our understanding of student perceptions and stress the importance of addressing these concerns to adequately prepare students for professional practice.
Red kratom and red corvette: A case of mania induced by kratom withdrawal
Authors: Abidali Mohammmad , St Victor Guitelle , Mashaly Shady , Dahal Pranab
Published: September 2024

Background

Kratom, derived from the Mitragyna speciose, a plant native to Southeast Asia, is a substance that is gaining popularity in the United States as a tool for self-medicating in opiate withdrawal and pain management. Its active compounds, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, interact with various receptors in the body, resulting in a spectrum of clinical effects.

Case

A 56-year-old male with a history of depression and cannabis use disorder arrived at the emergency department in a state of severe agitation with erratic behavior and aggression. Further evaluation revealed a recent abrupt discontinuation of Kratom use. A psychiatric consultation was requested and performed by the consultation liaison team, diagnosing Kratom withdrawal as the most likely cause of his acute mania.

Conclusions

Neuropsychiatric symptoms arising from Kratom toxicity is a well-documented phenomenon. However, to our knowledge, this is the first documented case of acute mania induced by Kratom withdrawal.
Shades of Grey: An Ethical Dilemma
Authors: Bhattacharya Debjani Ghosh , Ghosh Piyali , Chakraborty Rachana
Published: September 2024

This case refers to an ethical dilemma encountered by the Internal Committee (IC) of a manufacturing corporation in redressing a complaint of sexual harassment raised by an employee against another colleague. The stream of incidents brought to light during the proceedings of the IC brings out the challenges faced by any decision-making authority in figuring out whether an employee alleged with the misconduct of sexual harassment could be guilty in reality. The case thus throws open the question of whether an allegation of sexual harassment is always black-and-white or whether there is any tinge of grey in it.
Isolated abducens nerve palsy following upper respiratory infection in a patient with ipsilateral chronic sphenoid sinusitis
Authors: Lee Yunhyung , Kang Sung Mo , Kwon Soonwook , Park Marn Joon
Published: September 2024

The abducens nerve, which is vulnerable because of its complex anatomy at the skull base, is seldom affected by acute or severe sphenoid sinusitis. Notably, abducens nerve palsy following asymptomatic chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) in a healthy young individual after a mild upper respiratory infection (URI) remains undocumented in the literature. Herein, we report a case of acute unilateral abducens neuropathy in a healthy 35-year-old woman with CRS in the ipsilateral sphenoid sinus, following a mild URI 2 weeks earlier. She presented with sudden-onset diplopia, was afebrile, and had normal serum inflammatory biomarkers. Comprehensive ophthalmological and neurological exams revealed no abnormalities except limited lateral gaze in the left eye. Imaging revealed mucosal swelling on the hyperpneumatized left sphenoid sinus, which thinned the clivus and positioned the inflamed mucosa close to the Dorello’s canal, likely facilitating the spread of inflammation to the ipsilateral abducens nerve. Urgent endoscopic sinus surgery combined with systemic corticosteroids and antibiotics led to complete resolution by postoperative day 10. The present case demonstrates acute abducens nerve neuropathy from URI-induced exacerbation of sphenoid sinus CRS with specific anatomical predispositions.
Preparation of halogen-free flame retardant curing agent and its application in epoxy resin
Authors: Jiang Lei , Liang Bing , Long Jiapeng
Published: September 2024

9,10-Dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene-10-oxide-N-Aminoethylpiperazine (DOPO-AEP), a phosphorus and nitrogen intumescent flame retardant curing agent was prepared by using acetonitrile as solvent using 9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene-10-oxide (DOPO) and N-aminoethylpiperazine (AEP) as raw materials. The structure of the flame retardant curing agent DOPO-AEP was analyzed Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FTIR), Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry (ESI-MS), and the synthesis method of the target product was determined. In addition, the content of char residue was determined by thermogravimetric analyzer, and its thermal properties were comprehensively explored, and based on the obtained results, the curable epoxy resin was selected to prepare DOPO-AEP/EP flame retardant composites. According to the amount of DOPO-AEP added product, different proportions of DOPO-AEP/EP flame retardant composites were prepared, and the actual impact of flame retardant properties and mechanical properties of epoxy resin in different proportions was explored. When the content of DOPO-AEP is 35%, the limiting oxygen index of DOPO-AEP/EP reaches 29.9, which has a significant increase compared with the limiting oxygen index of pure epoxy resin of 19.8, but compared with the content of DOPO-AEP of 30%, the limiting oxygen index of DOPO-AEP/EP is 28.7, and there is no significant increase change. Comprehensive analysis shows that when the component content of DOPO-AEP is 30%, the flame retardant system has a tensile strength of 29.0 MPa, an impact strength of 4.5Kj/m2 and a flexural strength of 73.9 MPa, and its limiting oxygen index is as high as 28.7, and the comprehensive performance of the system is the best. By testing the surface morphology of the flame retardant composites after combustion by SEM, it was found that a dense char layer was formed on the surface of the epoxy resin cured char residue and foamed obviously, indicating that the flame retardant curing performance of DOPO-AEP was good.
Research on error analysis and calibration method of 3-PUU parallel robot
Authors: Chen Mingfang , Liang Hongjian , He Chaoyin , Zhang Yongxia , Huang Liang’en
Published: September 2024

Kinematic calibration is necessary for the pose accuracy improvement of the parallel robots. However, difficulties occur in traditional calibration methods, such as exceeding a large number of error parameters and error accumulation. In this paper, a 3-PUU parallel robot is taken as the research object, and the closed-loop vector method and differential theory are employed to establish an error model. Through quantitative analysis of geometric parametric errors, redundant parameters within the calibration algorithm are meticulously eliminated. By treating the dominant error terms as optimization variables for the mechanism’s parameters, the calibration problem is transformed into a nonlinear system optimization challenge, which effectively avoids the problem of multiple error parameters and accumulation of errors in the traditional method. Further, using the particle swarm algorithm to compute the minimum value of the objective function, one can obtain the actual structural parametric errors of the robot. These errors are then utilized to correct the kinematic model, enabling the calibration of the mechanism’s parameters and ultimately enhancing operation accuracy. Lastly, simulation and experimental validation of the algorithm are carried out. The simulation results indicate that the end-effector position error converges to zero infinitely; and the experimental results indicate that the maximum error of the end-effector in the x, y, z directions and the maximum position error are reduced from 8.53, 11.67, 3.29, and 12.56 mm to 1.09, 1.32, 0.98, and 1.75 mm, respectively. The standard deviation of the position error is reduced from 2.43 to 0.32 mm. The mean error is reduced from 7.76 to 1.02 mm. To sum up, the operation accuracy and stability of the robot are greatly improved.
Molluscum contagiosum is associated with atopic dermatitis and sexually transmitted infections in a matched case-control study using a national database
Authors: Hill Rachel C. , Parikh Aarushi K. , Lipner Shari R.
Published: September 2024

Background

Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a poxvirus that manifests as firm, smooth, dome-shaped, umbilicated, flesh-colored papules. In adults, MC is commonly spread by sexual contact, and is self-limited in patients with intact immune systems but more widely distributed and difficult to treat in immunocompromised persons. We analyzed cases of adult MC for associations with immunosuppression, lifestyle risk factors, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Methods

Using the All of Us Research Program database, adults with MC were identified and matched with controls 1:10 based on demographic factors. Comorbidities, lifestyle risk factors, and medication exposures were analyzed. Odds ratios were calculated using logistic regression.

Results

Our analysis included 146 cases of adults with MC and 1460 demographic-matched controls. Patients with MC were 48 years old on average, 59% female, and majority White (82.5%). Controls were similar for all demographic features. Adults with MC were more likely to have syphilis (odds ratio (OR) 16; 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.57-99.5), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (OR 9.54; 95% CI 3.95-23.0), chlamydia (OR 6.24; 95% CI 2.38-16.4), condyloma acuminata (OR 13.9; 95% CI 7.36-26.2), genital herpes (OR 4.13; 95% CI 1.87-9.15), or atopic dermatitis (AD) (OR 2.85; 95% CI 1.5-5.4) (all p < .01). There were no differences in prevalence of other comorbidities, lifestyle risk factors, nor medication exposures (all p > .05).

Conclusions

We showed that adult MC is associated with AD and STIs, including HIV, chlamydia, condyloma acuminata, genital herpes, and syphilis. Sexually active adolescents and adults and those diagnosed with AD may be screened for MC and counseled on their potentially increased risk.
Characteristics and outcomes of biopsy-proven lupus nephritis in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa
Authors: Gerber Hanri , Freercks Robert
Published: September 2024

Objective

In Africa, the treatment outcomes of lupus nephritis (LN) are not well known. This is especially true in the current era where contemporary treatment options are more widely available. This retrospective study aimed to measure the outcomes of biopsy-proven LN treated at the Livingstone Tertiary Hospital (LTH) Renal Unit in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth), South Africa and to identify predictors of a poor outcome.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of 131 patients with biopsy-proven LN who had a kidney biopsy between 01 January 2012 to 31 December 2021 as identified from the biopsy register. A sub-analysis of 107 patients with proliferative and/or membranous LN was performed.

Results

Mean age was 31.4 ± 12.7 years with a female predominance of 86.3%. At 6-month follow-up, 69.6% of patients had complete or partial response to treatment. This increased to 70.3% and 72.6% at 18 and 30 months, respectively. Twenty-seven patients were lost to follow-up, while 7 (5.3%) patients progressed to kidney failure (KF). There were 3 (2.3%) deaths. Predictors of poor response were an elevated baseline serum creatinine (OR = 2.53, 95% CI 0.99 – 6.52, p = .054), a decreased eGFR (OR = 2.92, 95% CI 0.94 – 9.09, p = .065) and an elevated blood pressure (OR = 6.06, 95% CI 1.11 – 33.33, p = .038) at the time of biopsy. Infections were the most common adverse event with 50 infections seen in 39 (29.8%) patients. Herpes viral infections were frequently noted ( n = 12) accounting for 24.0% of all documented infections.

Conclusion

Response rates were similar in this cohort when compared to other contemporary studies. Predictors of poor response were an elevated baseline serum creatinine, a decreased eGFR and an elevated blood pressure at time of the biopsy. Infections were the most common occurring adverse event, although the mortality rate remained low at 2.3%.
Default Risk, Risk Premium, and Corporate Resilience: The Role of Regulatory and Stabilization Policies
Authors: Firano Zakaria , Karaouch Doha
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the interaction between monetary and macroprudential policy measures and evaluates whether policymakers should address financial disruptions. To achieve this goal, we developed a dynamic stochastic general equilibrium model that incorporates frictions in financial markets and financial shocks alongside traditional macroeconomic shocks. One of the main focuses of macroprudential policies is to stabilize credit cycles. We used Moroccan data to estimate the model and assess various policy actions to counter imbalances in financial markets, including adjustments to the interest rate tool. Our findings highlight the benefits of addressing financial disruptions, the extent depending on the shock characteristics. While acting on interest rates in response to financial variables may stabilize some economic factors, it has the potential to increase the volatility of others substantially. The results confirm that the use of optimal regimes can reduce default processes and ensure companies stabilize risk premiums. Implementing such regulations leads to greater opening of the companies’ capital to external financing sources.

JEL Classification C11, D53, D58, E52, E58
The divided public: Dynamics of heterogeneity of European public opinion towards European integration
Authors: Palacios Irene , Arnold Christine
Published: September 2024

Much of empirical research on public opinion is dominated by a focus on individual-level determinants of support for, or opposition to, the European Union, missing the heterogeneity that lies within and between societies. Our article aims to understand whether national publics are increasingly heterogeneous in their opinions towards Europe, and if so, how this heterogeneity manifests itself. To do so, we rely on a Eurobarometer trend file containing data on the 28 member states between 1994 and 2019. The results show that the degree of popular dissensus over European Union integration has gone deeper since the Maastricht Treaty and reached a peak during the years of the Great Recession (2010 to 2013). The study also demonstrates that the public opinion dynamics triggering heterogeneity vary across clusters of European Union member states.