bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oblivion: an open-source system for large-scale analysis of macro-based office malware
Authors: Sanna Alessandro , Cara Fabrizio , Maiorca Davide , Giacinto Giorgio
Published: July 2024

Macro-based Office files have been extensively used as infection vectors to embed malware. In particular, VBA macros allow leveraging kernel functions and system routines to execute or remotely drop malicious payloads, and they are typically heavily obfuscated to make static analysis unfeasible. Current state-of-the-art approaches focus on discriminating between malicious and benign Office files by performing static and dynamic analysis directly on obfuscated macros, focusing mainly on detection rather than reversing. Namely, the proposed methods lack an in-depth analysis of the embedded macros, thus losing valuable information about the attack families, the embedded scripts, and the contacted external resources. In this paper, we propose Oblivion, an open-source framework for large-scale analysis of Office macros, to fill in this gap. Oblivion performs instrumentation of macros and executes them in a virtualized environment to de-obfuscate and reconstruct their behavior. Moreover, it can automatically and quickly interact with macros by extracting the embedded PowerShell and non-PowerShell attacks and reconstructing the whole macro behavior. This is the main scope of our analysis: we are more interested in retrieving specific behavioural patterns than detecting maliciousness per se. We performed a large-scale analysis of more than 30,000 files that constitute a representative corpus of attacks. Results show that Oblivion could efficiently de-obfuscate malicious macros by revealing a large corpus of PowerShell and non-PowerShell attacks. We measured that this efficiency can be quantified in an analysis time of less than 1 min per sample, on average. Moreover, we characterize such attacks by pointing out frequent attack patterns and employed obfuscation strategies. We finally release the information obtained from our dataset with our tool.
Metal Trade and Contraband: Archaeological Discoveries and Insights from the Nanhai No.1 Merchant Shipwreck
Authors: Zhang Yekun , Xie Meizi , Wang Yuanlin
Published: July 2024

The archaeological evidence from the Nanhai No.1 shipwreck provides tangible evidence for the study of maritime trade during the Song Dynasty, revealing the presence of a significant amount of smuggled metal in the cargo, suggesting possible involvement in smuggling activities. Merchants may have used tactics such as under-reporting and clandestine transportation of prohibited items to evade supervision, thus engaging in the illicit trade of metal materials and artifacts banned by the Song government on the international market. Valuations of the goods recovered from Nanhai No.1 indicate that the value of iron and silver exceeds that of porcelain, while the value of gold objects and currency exceeds that of porcelain by one-third. Research also suggests a possible shift in the model of maritime trade during the Song Dynasty, from government-led to merchant-led, with a gradual weakening of government supervision and control over trade. This change may be related to reforms in trade organization and the government leniency toward prohibited activities. Despite repeated government bans, smuggling of metal goods continued throughout the Song Dynasty, with no significant reduction in the scale of the metal trade due to the profit-seeking behavior of private merchants, highlighting the inadequacy of government control over illegal smuggling activities. This complex interplay between economic gain, national security, private interests and government control had profound implications for China, the broader South China Sea region and beyond, while the outflow of metal artifacts also facilitated the exchange of goods, technology and culture between China and the aforementioned regions.
Climatology and circulation conditions of potential foehn occurrence in the Polish Tatra Mountains
Authors: Grajek Zofia , Bednorz Ewa
Published: July 2024

Foehn wind occurrence has generated great interest among researchers because of the destructive power and impact on the local climate. Based on anemometric data provided by a high-mountain station on Kasprowy Wierch in the Polish Tatra Mountains, the characteristics of the potential occurrence of foehn wind (referred to as halny in the Polish Tatras) are presented, including its speed and duration, as well as the frequency of occurrence on a multiannual, annual and daily basis. Halny winds occur most frequently in the cold period of the year (Oct–Feb), with the frequency peaking in November, and sporadically in the summer. The occurrence of foehn winds is strongly dependent on the synoptic situation. Therefore, the main aim of the study was to identify the circulation conditions conducive to their occurrence on the Polish side of the Tatra Mountains. Circulation conditions responsible for foehn formation were analysed using gridded sea level pressure (SLP) data from the NCEP-DOE (National Centers for Environmental Prediction-Department of Energy) reanalyses. The occurrence of foehn wind in the Tatra Mountains is associated with a low pressure system over north-western Europe, and above normal pressure over south-eastern Europe. The location and intensity of the centres of atmospheric influence on foehn days can vary, as indicated by the three types of pressure systems favouring the occurrence of the phenomenon, distinguished by the hierarchical grouping method. In type 1, the cyclonic centre spreads over northern Europe, in type 2 over western Europe and in type 3 over north-western Europe. In types 1 and 3, the air masses come from the south-west, and in type 2 more from the south. Type 3 is characterised by the greatest horizontal pressure gradients among the three circulation types and with the greatest SLP anomalies.
First Molecular Identification and Clinical Presentation of Crenosomosis in a Dog from Slovakia
Authors: Kaduková Michaela , Kožár Martin , Schreiberová Andrea , Šišková Barbora , Štrkolcová Gabriela
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Crenosoma vulpis (Dujardin,1845) is a lungworm which has spread worldwide in canines and is associated with upper respiratory infections. In a majority of cases, the infections are accompanied with chronic cough. Diagnosis of lungworms is often underdiagnosed and can be misinterpreted as other respiratory diseases.

Methods

The Small Animal Clinic of the University Veterinary Hospital admitted an 11-month-old dog presented with persistent cough associated with difficulty in breathing and even asphyxia. Based on clinical symptoms, the patient underwent radiological and bronchoscopic examination. Bronchoscopy revealed the presence of lungworms obturating the branches of the tracheobronchial tree. Larvae were collected by bronchoscopic lavage and subjected to parasitological and molecular examination.

Results

Microscopic detection and morphological identification of the worms removed during the bronchoscopy confirmed the presence of female adult worms. The subsequent molecular characterisation of the mitochondrial (cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene (cox1) and 12S ribosomal DNA (rDNA)), nuclear (18S rDNA) genes, as well as the analysis of the second internal transcribed spacer (ITS-2) region of the ribosomal DNA, confirmed the Crenosoma vulpis species. Faecal samples were processed using the Baermann method, which confirmed the presence of the larval stage 1 of C. vulpis. The therapy with fenbendazole at a dose of 50 mg/kg of live weight once daily for the period of 7 days was initiated for the patient.

Conclusion

This paper presents the first molecularly confirmed clinical case of a Crenosoma vulpis infection in an 11-month-old female dog of the Miniature Schnauzer breed in Slovakia.
Varieties of Cubes of Opposition
Authors: Pizzi Claudio E. A.
Published: July 2024

The objects called cubes of opposition have been presented in the literature in discordant ways. The aim of the paper is to offer a survey of such various kinds of cubes and evaluate their relation with an object, here called “Aristotelian cube”, which consists of two Aristotelian squares and four squares which are semiaristotelian, i.e. are such that their vertices are linked by some so-called Aristotelian relation. Two paradigm cases of Aristotelian squares are provided by propositions written in the language of the logic of consequential implication, whose distinctive feature is the validity of two formulas, A $$\rightarrow $$
→
B $$\supset \lnot $$

⊃
¬

(A $$\rightarrow $$
→
$$\lnot $$
¬
B) and A $$\rightarrow $$
→
B $$\supset \lnot $$

⊃
¬

($$\lnot $$
¬
A $$\rightarrow $$
→
B), expressing two different forms of contrariety. Part of section 1 is devoted to define the notions of rotation and of r-Aristotelian square, i.e. a square resulting from some rotation of an Aristotelian square. In section 2 this notion is extended to the one of a r-Aristotelian cube, i.e. of a cube resulting from some rotation of some square of an Aristotelian cube. This notion is used in the sequel to analyze various cubes of oppositions which can be found in the literature: (1) the one used by W. Lenzen to reconstruct Caramuel’s Octagon; (2) the one used by D. Luzeaux to represent the implicative relation among S5-modalities; (3) the one introduced by D. Dubois to represent the relations between quantified propositions containing positive predicates and their negations; (4) the one called Moretti cube. None of such cubes is strictly speaking Aristotelian but each of them may be proved to be r-Aristotelian. Section 5 discusses the assertion that Dubois cube was anticipated in a paper published by Reichenbach in 1952. Actually Dubois’ construction was anticipated by the so-called Johnson–Keynes cube, while the Reichenbach cube, unlike Dubois cube, is an instance of an Aristotelian cube in the sense defined in this paper. The dominance of such notion is confirmed by J.F. Nilsson’s cube, representing relations between propositions with nested quantifiers, and also by a cube introduced by S. Read to treat quantifiers with existential import. A cube similar to Read’s cube, introduced by Chatti and Schang, is shown to be r-Aristotelian. In section 6 the author remarks that the logic of the formulas occurring in the cubes of Chatti–Schang and Read have the drawback of not satsfying the law of Identity. He then proposes a definition of non-standard quantifiers which satisfies Identity, are independent of existential assumptions and such that their interrelations are represented by an Aristotelian cube.
Advancements in Surgical Management of Megaureters
Authors: Boswell Timothy C.
Published: July 2024

Purpose of Review

To review and describe the recent evolution of surgery for the various types of pediatric megaureter.

Recent Findings

Megaureter management first relies on determining the underlying cause, whether by obstruction, reflux, or a combination, and then setting appropriate surgical indications because many cases do not require surgery as shown by observation studies. Endoscopic balloon dilation has been on the rise as a major treatment option for obstructive megaureter, while refluxing megaureters can also be treated by laparoscopic and robotic techniques, whether extravesically or transvesicoscopically. During ureteral reimplantation, tapering is sometimes necessary to address the enlarged ureter, but there are also considerations for not tapering or for tapering alternatives.

Endoscopic and minimally invasive surgeries for megaureter have been the predominant focus of recent megaureter literature. These techniques still need collaborative prospective studies to better define which surgeries are best for patients needing megaureter interventions.
Production of chitosan from Aspergillus niger and quantitative evaluation of the process using adapted analytical tools
Authors: Krake S. , Conzelmann C. , Heuer S. , Dyballa M. , Zibek S. , Hahn T.
Published: July 2024

The chitosan production process from fishery waste is already established in industrial scale, whereby fungal chitosan is produced in lower amounts. Since fungal chitosan could be isolated from under-valorized vegan streams while exhibiting slightly different characteristics, it has also potential for other applications. Within this publication, we focus on the chitosan production from Aspergillus niger. This study provides a detailed determination of the biomass composition, adapting and comparing different analytical tools, with special focus on the chitin and chitosan content. The major content of the dried biomass is composed of glucans (48.6 ± 1.4%), followed by proteins with an amount of 22.2 ± 0.7%. Chitin and chitosan provide 16.0 ± 0.8% of the biomass. Within our chitosan production studies, we compared the effect of different process strategies including steps as deproteinization (DP), acid extraction (AE), deacetylation (DA), as well as purification. Initially, we obtained poor values (lower than 73.6%) for the chitosan purity. A direct DA step followed by purification resulted in a chitosan purity of up to 89.6%, a recovery of 30.5% and a yield with regard to the biomass of 5.5%. The DA degree of the resulting chitosan is similar to chitosan derived from fishery waste, whereas the molecular weight is lower. The results achieved so far are consistent with the literature, extending beyond, the data emphasized that a chitosan production from residual fungal biomass after fermentation is suitable by direct DA and purification. However, further adaption is necessary so that other matrix compounds could be also obtained.
Immobilization study of a monomeric oleate hydratase from Rhodococcus erythropolis
Authors: Bandookwala Maria , Prem Sophia A. , Kollmannsberger Kathrin L. , Zavrel Michael , Garbe Daniel , Brück Thomas
Published: July 2024

The chemical, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries are currently confronted with the challenge of transitioning from traditional chemical processes to more sustainable biocatalytic methods. To support that aim, we developed various heterogeneous biocatalysts for an industrially relevant enzyme called oleate hydratase that converts oleic acid to 10-hydroxystearic acid, a fatty emollient substance useful for various technical applications. We used cheap support matrices such as silica, chitosan, cellulose, and agarose for further scale-up and economic feasibility at the industrial level alongside more sophisticated supports like metal–organic frameworks. Different physical and chemical binding approaches were employed. Particularly, by immobilizing oleate hydrates on a 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane surface-functionalized cellulose matrix, we developed an enzyme immobilizate with almost 80% activity of the free enzyme. The long-term goal of this work was to be able to use the developed heterogeneous biocatalyst for multiple reuse cycles enabling profitable biocatalysis. Despite high initial conversion rate by the developed cellulose-based immobilizate, a depletion in enzyme activity of immobilized oleate hydratase was observed over time. Therefore, further enzyme modification is required to impart stability, the optimization of operational conditions, and the development of carrier materials that enable economical and sustainable enzymatic conversion of oleic acid to meet the commercial demand.

Graphical abstract
Reconstructing the trade history: provenance study of Han bronze mirrors in and out of Han China
Authors: Wang Xiang , Liu Ruiliang , Gao Jun , Pollard A. Mark , Fan Anchuan , Huang Fang , Li Ruiliang , Zhang Shixuan , Hua Fenglin , Jin Zhengyao
Published: July 2024

A rapidly increasing number of bronze mirrors dated to the Chinese Han dynasty (202 BC – AD 220), known for their unique decorative patterns and highly developed alloying techniques, have been widely discovered in both China and beyond, providing fresh materials and scientific data to revisit their geological provenance, production and circulation network along the ancient Silk Road. In this paper, 47 bronze mirrors unearthed in the southeastern provinces of China, including Zhejiang, Anhui and Fujian provinces, have been characterized by typo-chronology, lead isotopic analysis, compositional analysis and metallography. A much wider comparative study is also carried out through a combination of data from China, Japan, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia, leading to a more updated lead isotopic database of the Han mirrors spreading out of China in various directions. Compared with the traditional ‘optimal’ model based on the Han mirrors recovered in Japan, the current study contributes several key changes in the bronze mirror production of the Han dynasty. The systematic analysis of the alloy composition, trace elements and typological studies shows that the bronze mirror industry shifted towards a more standardized production in the middle to late Western Han Dynasty. In contrast to the substantial change of non-mirror bronze productions, the similar distribution of lead isotope data in early and middle to late Western Han mirrors suggests that the ‘official monopoly of salt and iron’ policy was less effective for the management of lead involved in mirror production. Bronze mirrors dated to middle to late Western Han discovered outside Han-China, such as Japan, Thailand, Afghanistan, Xiongnu and the ancient Dian Kingdom, appear to be subjected to a more specific type of lead as a result of the state-centralized policy of the Western Han court.
Unraveling Brain Synchronisation Dynamics by Explainable Neural Networks using EEG Signals: Application to Dyslexia Diagnosis
Authors: Gallego-Molina Nicolás J. , Ortiz Andrés , Arco Juan E. , Martinez-Murcia Francisco J. , Woo Wai Lok
Published: July 2024

The electrical activity of the neural processes involved in cognitive functions is captured in EEG signals, allowing the exploration of the integration and coordination of neuronal oscillations across multiple spatiotemporal scales. We have proposed a novel approach that combines the transformation of EEG signal into image sequences, considering cross-frequency phase synchronisation (CFS) dynamics involved in low-level auditory processing, with the development of a two-stage deep learning model for the detection of developmental dyslexia (DD). This deep learning model exploits spatial and temporal information preserved in the image sequences to find discriminative patterns of phase synchronisation over time achieving a balanced accuracy of up to 83%. This result supports the existence of differential brain synchronisation dynamics between typical and dyslexic seven-year-old readers. Furthermore, we have obtained interpretable representations using a novel feature mask to link the most relevant regions during classification with the cognitive processes attributed to normal reading and those corresponding to compensatory mechanisms found in dyslexia.

Graphical Abstract
Regional fertility predictors based on socioeconomic determinants in Slovakia
Authors: Nestorová Dická Janetta , Lipták Filip
Published: July 2024

The study's primary purpose was to recognise the effects of determinants on the level of fertility and thereby explain the differences in trends in the regions of Slovakia. At the turn of the century, the differences in fertility in regions increased, but the total fertility rate decreased. Multivariate statistical methods clarified the regional effects of the level and nature of fertility. Initial regression surveys indicated weak effects between regions, which led to applying factor and cluster analysis to establish regional types. Comprehensive regression analysis was then applied. The strength and nature of regional relationships differed at the inter- and intra-regional levels. Research has demonstrated significant differences in fertility rates dependent on the socioeconomic environment, as regional types uniquely link to determinants. Moreover, each determinant has specific spatial patterns with unequal regression coefficients at different regional levels, which cannot be evaluated constantly. Knowing how spatial variation in fecundity occurs will enable future studies to elucidate the processes involved. Finally, fertility is vital for social assessment and policy formulation, the study’s findings could inform local decision-makers and planners in identifying the socioeconomic conditions underlying fertility at the regional level and planning appropriate intervention strategies.
Effect of Lacticaseibacillus casei LC2W Supplementation on Glucose Metabolism and Gut Microbiota in Subjects at High Risk of Metabolic Syndrome: A Randomized, Double-blinded, Placebo-controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Wang Danqi , Wang Xiaohua , Han Jin , You Chunping , Liu Zhenmin , Wu Zhengjun
Published: July 2024

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a global epidemic complex and will cause serious metabolic comorbidities without treatment. A prevention strategy for MetS development has been proposed to modulate gut microbiota by probiotic administration to improve intestinal dysbiosis and benefit the host. Lacticaseibacillus casei LC2W has exhibited positive effects in preventing colitis and anti-hypertension in vivo. However, the effect of L. casei LC2W on subjects at high risk of MetS is unknown. Here, a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study was conducted on 60 subjects with high risk of MetS, and the hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic activity and possible pathways of L. casei LC2W were inferred from the correlation analysis with gut microbiome composition, function, and clinical phenotypic indicators. The results showed that oral administration of L. casei LC2W could exert significant benefits on weight control, glucose and lipid metabolism, inflammatory and oxidative stress parameters, and SCFA production, as well as modulate the composition of gut microbiota. The relative abundance of Lacticaseibacillus, Bifidobacterium, Dorea, and Blautia was enriched, and their interaction with other gut microbes was strengthened by oral administration of L. casei LC2W, which was beneficial in ameliorating gut inflammation, promoting glucose and lipids degradation pathways, thus alleviated MetS. The present study confirmed the prevention effects of L. casei LC2W towards MetS from aspects of clinical outcomes and microflora modulation, providing an alternative strategy for people at high risk of MetS.

Trial registration: The study was proactively registered in ClinicalTrial.gov with the registration number of ChiCTR2000031833 on April 09, 2020.
Assessing focal spot alignment in clinical linear accelerators: a comprehensive evaluation with triplet phantoms
Authors: Riis Hans L. , Engstrøm Kenni H. , Slama Luke , Dass Joshua , Ebert Martin A. , Rowshanfarzad Pejman
Published: July 2024

A fundamental parameter to evaluate the beam delivery precision and stability on a clinical linear accelerator (linac) is the focal spot position (FSP) measured relative to the collimator axis of the radiation head. The aims of this work were to evaluate comprehensive data on FSP acquired on linacs in clinical use and to establish the ability of alternative phantoms to detect effects on patient plan delivery related to FSP. FSP measurements were conducted using a rigid phantom holding two ball-bearings at two different distances from the radiation source. Images of these ball-bearings were acquired using the electronic portal imaging device (EPID) integrated with each linac. Machine QA was assessed using a radiation head-mounted PTW STARCHECK phantom. Patient plan QA was investigated using the SNC ArcCHECK phantom positioned on the treatment couch, irradiated with VMAT plans across a complete 360° gantry rotation and three X-ray energies. This study covered eight Elekta linacs, including those with 6 MV, 18 MV, and 6 MV flattening-filter-free (FFF) beams. The largest range in the FSP was found for 6 MV FFF. The FSP of one linac, retrofitted with 6 MV FFF, displayed substantial differences in FSP compared to 6 MV FFF beams on other linacs, which all had FSP ranges less than 0.50 mm and 0.25 mm in the lateral and longitudinal directions, respectively. The PTW STARCHECK phantom proved effective in characterising the FSP, while the SNC ArcCHECK measurements could not discern FSP-related features. Minor variations in FSP may be attributed to adjustments in linac parameters, component replacements necessary for beam delivery, and the wear and tear of various linac components, including the magnetron and gun filament. Consideration should be given to the ability of any particular phantom to detect a subsequent impact on the accuracy of patient plan delivery.
Two-step process for gossypol reduction and protein enhancement in cottonseed kernel powder
Authors: Satankar Varsha , Jhodkar Durwesh , Singh Mohan , Kumar Manoj , Mageshwaran Vellaichamy , Palanisamy Sivasubramanian , Ayrilmis Nadir , Khan Tabrej
Published: July 2024

Cottonseed is the major by-product of cotton and it contains about 33% protein which shows its potential to be utilized for food applications. However, the presence of gossypol restricts its use for edible purpose. The previous attempts made for gossypol reduction in cottonseed meal resulted in poor extraction efficiency and loss in protein quality. The present study aimed at efficient removal of gossypol from the cottonseed kernel powder to produce the high-protein flour with an excellent amino acid profile. The process was divided into two stages; in the first part, gossypol was extracted from the kernel powder at optimized conditions (acetone-to-water ratio 90:10, sample-to-solution ratio (1:10), 30-min shaken time, and number of extractions 4). Further, the oil was removed from the acetone-treated sample that yielded 15.7% oil. In the second-stage processing, the de-oiled sample was treated at optimized conditions (ethanol-to-water ratio 50:50, citric acid 0.2 M, sample-to-solvent ratio 1:15, and incubation time 30 min) in a water bath at 100 ℃ temperature. The cottonseed flour produced in the present study had 64% protein, 23% carbohydrates, 0.24% total gossypol, and all essential amino acids except tryptophan.
A novel biosorbent material from waste fish scales (Cyprinus carpio) for biosorption of toxic dyes in aquatic environments
Authors: Yildiz Hakan , Yüksel Arslan Yusuf
Published: July 2024

Polluted water sources are a growing concern in our world today, with more and more of our precious freshwater sources becoming contaminated. Pollution can come from a variety of sources, such as industrial discharge, agricultural runoff, and even urban runoff. Several treatment technologies have been investigated, mainly for dye pollution from textile and industrial wastes. In this study, the biosorption of methylene blue dye from the water environment was examined utilizing a low-cost and biodegradable biomaterial. Waste fish scales modified with NaOH were used as biomaterial. The biosorption effect of methylene blue concentration and pH variables was optimized. SEM for the surface morphology of the biomaterial and FT-IR analyses for the detection of functional groups were performed. The characterization of methylene blue biosorption was conducted to fully understand its nature, including its kinetics, equilibrium, and thermodynamic works. It has been determined that the biosorption process conforms most closely to the pseudo-second-order kinetic model for its kinetic results and to the Langmuir isotherm for its equilibrium results. Based on the Langmuir isotherm data, the maximum capacity for biosorption (qmax) was found to be 344.82 mg g−1. The thermodynamic results showed that the process of biosorption of methylene blue on various surfaces is spontaneous and occurs via physisorption. Additionally, the experimental design method was utilized to determine the optimum conditions of the methylene blue biosorption process under various conditions. The maximum biosorption capacity was determined to be 102.367 mg g−1 at the optimal conditions. The potential of biosorbent derived from the waste fish scales is promising as a novel biosorbent material due to its unique surface morphology and high biosorption capacity.
Post-tuberculosis treatment paradoxical reactions
Authors: Hermans Sabine M. , Akkerman Onno W. , Meintjes Graeme , Grobusch Martin P.
Published: July 2024

Paradoxical reactions (PR) to tuberculosis (TB) treatment are common during treatment, but have also been described after treatment. A presentation with recurrent signs or symptoms of TB after cure or completion of prior treatment needs to be differentiated between microbiological relapse and a paradoxical reaction. We searched all published literature on post-treatment PR, and present a synthesis of 30 studies, focusing on the epidemiology, diagnosis and management of this phenomenon. We report an additional case vignette. The majority of studies were of lymph node TB (LN-TB), followed by central nervous system TB (CNS-TB). A total of 112 confirmed and 42 possible post-treatment PR cases were reported. The incidence ranged between 3 and 14% in LN-TB and was more frequent than relapses, and between 0 and 2% in all TB. We found four reports of pulmonary or pleural TB post-treatment PR cases. The incidence did not differ by length of treatment, but was associated with younger age at initial diagnosis, and having had a PR (later) during treatment. Post-treatment PR developed mainly within the first 6 months after the end of TB treatment but has been reported many years later (longest report 10 years). The mainstays of diagnosis and management are negative mycobacterial cultures and anti-inflammatory treatment, respectively. Due to the favourable prognosis in LN-TB recurrent symptoms, a short period of observation is warranted to assess for spontaneous regression. In CNS-TB with recurrent symptoms, immediate investigation and anti-inflammatory treatment with the possibility of TB retreatment should be undertaken.
On a total order on the set of Z-numbers based on discrete fuzzy numbers
Authors: Mir-Fuentes Arnau , De Miguel Laura , Massanet Sebastia , Mir Arnau , Riera Juan Vicente
Published: July 2024

Z-numbers were introduced by Zadeh in 2011 as a pair of fuzzy numbers (A, B), where A is interpreted as a fuzzy restriction on the values of a variable, while B is interpreted as a measure of certainty or sureness of A. From the initial proposal, several other approaches have been introduced in order to reduce the computational cost of the involved operations. One of such approaches is called discrete Z-numbers where A and B are modelled as discrete fuzzy numbers. In this paper, the construction of total orders on the set of discrete Z-numbers is investigated for the first time. Specifically, the total order is designed for discrete Z-numbers where the second component has membership values belonging to a finite and prefixed set of values. The method relies on solid and coherent linguistic criteria and several linguistic properties are analyzed. The order involves the transformation of the first components of the discrete Z-numbers by using the credibility of the second components in the sense that a lower credibility enlarges in a greater extent the uncertainty of the first component. Then a total order on the set of discrete fuzzy numbers is applied. Finally, a practical example on how to order discrete Z-numbers is presented and a comparison with other ranking methods is performed from which the strengths of our method are stressed.
Mechanical, Thermal and Performance Evaluation of Hybrid Basalt/Carbon Fibers Reinforced Bio-Based Polyethylene Terephthalate (BioPet) Composites
Authors: Kuciel Stanisław , Mazur Karolina E. , Robakowska Mariola , Paukszta Dominik
Published: July 2024

Looking at the dynamically developing market of engineering materials, there is a need to create newer functional composites. Today's economic situation related to high energy prices and environmental threats force industry to conduct sustainable production. Polymer composites based on plant raw materials are increasingly appearing on global markets, which are light, have good mechanical properties and are also pro-ecological. This work involved the production of hybrid composites based on bio-based poly (ethylene terephthalate) by means of injection molding. Two types of fibers were used simultaneously as the reinforcement phase: basalt fibers and carbon fibers in the amount of 5, 7.5, and 10 wt% of each. The produced materials were subjected to a wide range of mechanical, thermal, and functional characteristics. The experimental data were compared with the theoretical results which were calculated from different micromodels. The studies showed that with the addition of the filler, the mechanical properties of the produced composites increased, but the optimal content was found for composites with 7.5/7.5 wt% addition of fibers, where the improvement was – 81%, 337%, and 25%, for tensile strength, Young's modulus, and impact strength, respectively. In the produced materials, the thermal properties of composites were also improved, where the shrinkage decreased by min. half, and linear coefficient at least 3 times. Sufficient adhesion between the fibers and the matrix was confirmed by SEM images and mechanical micromodels, which confirmed the highest efficiency of reinforcement with a total content of 15 wt% of fibers. To assess the influence of extreme conditions on the behavior of composites, hydrolytic degradation was carried out, which showed that the addition of fibers will not increase water absorption. The mechanical tests of the incubated materials lead to the conclusion that the produced materials could be successfully used in long-term applications because the properties obtained during the tensile test have deteriorated by only max. 5%. The work showed for the first time the modification of bioPET using two types of fibers introduced simultaneously. Hybridization of bioPET with basalt and carbon fibers has shown that it is possible to create very durable composites with a high Young's modulus. The work showed that different fibers are responsible for increasing other parameters – basalt fibers increase strength, while carbon fibers increase Young's modulus. The research may contribute to the popularization of bio-based polymer composites that have high strength for low weight and are a cheaper equivalent than polyamide-based composites.
Strategic analysis of intelligent connected vehicle industry competitiveness: a comprehensive evaluation system integrating rough set theory and projection pursuit
Authors: Wang Yi , Zhang Fan , Feng Qianlong , Kang Kai
Published: July 2024

As a carrier of multi-industrial technology integration and the key to industrial competition, the intelligent connected vehicle (ICV) has been taken seriously around the world. However, as a fast-growing emerging industry, its development process varies greatly from place to place. Hence, the merits and demerits are analyzed for the development of the ICV industry in different cities scientifically and to clarify the development of different links in each city, this paper suggests an extensive assessment framework integrating rough set theory and projection pursuit-based computation to systematically assess and thoroughly evaluate the level of competitiveness of the ICV industry. First, through big data text analysis technology, we constructed a "5 + 24" two-tier evaluation index system composed of 24 level-II evaluation indexes as well as five level-I evaluation indexes and selected 19 typical cities as input data for the comprehensive evaluation system. Further, the Adaptive Random Forest based Crossover Tactical Unit (ARF-CTU) algorithm is proposed for evaluating the performance of the industrial vehicle industry. However, the ARF algorithm is employed to estimate the lowering of overfitting issues and handling of high dimensional data. Moreover, the continuously varying conditions are analyzed by CTU. Then, we constructed a comprehensive evaluation system in the rough set theory and projection pursuit: (I) Quoting the rough set non-decision-making algorithm for attribute reduction, that is, under the premise of unchanged classification ability, derive a new evaluation system, and calculate the index weight and score based on the new system. (II) Based on the projection pursuit technology, the index score is mapped by a genetic algorithm to a linear structure, and a one-dimensional projection vector is an output.
ESG unpacked: Environmental, social, and governance pillars and the stock price reaction to the invasion of Ukraine
Authors: Kovacs Boglarka Bianka , Neszveda Gábor , Baranyai Eszter , Zaremba Adam
Published: July 2024

How do the individual pillars of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors perform in times of war? Focusing on euro area stocks around the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, we investigate this question using an event study methodology. Our findings suggest that firms with higher governance scores experienced stronger abnormal positive stock returns, implying that investors particularly valued well-governed firms amidst the uncertainty and adversity. However, the importance of good governance was lower for countries with higher dependency on oil imports from Russia. In contrast, social and environmental considerations appeared to receive less attention from investors during this crisis period. Our study highlights the heterogeneous nature of ESG factors and underscores how their relevance can be context-dependent, especially in uncertain times marked by geopolitical conflicts.
Exploring household water conservation methods in rural South Africa: a case of the Mbhashe and Mnquma local municipalities
Authors: Mapuka Fortunate N. , Nel Werner , Kalumba Ahmed M.
Published: July 2024

Amidst the persistent drought disaster declared in 2015, the Amathole District Municipality grapples with severe water scarcity issues, particularly affecting local municipalities such as Mbhashe and Mnquma. Consequently, households in these areas confront the challenges of unreliable and contaminated water sources, prompting them to adopt water conservation measures to mitigate shortages. This study investigates the efficacy of water conservation methods among rural households in these drought-affected regions. It identifies associated challenges and potential interventions to ensure access to clean and dependable water. Employing a mixed methods approach, the study examines household water conservation practices through narrative analysis and descriptive statistics of survey data. Findings reveal that storing water in drums, containers, and tanks is the most prevalent conservation method, alongside measures like greywater reuse, lifestyle adjustments, and rainwater harvesting. With financial constraints and infrastructural limitations hindering broader adoption, the study found water conservation to be a challenge among the households as a minority (7.8%) of respondents adopted multiple water conservation strategies. In comparison, most respondents (73.6%) could only afford to practice one water conservation strategy at a time, and others (18.6%) had no conservation strategies. Drought conditions, lack of infrastructure, poverty, and attitudinal factors are primary barriers to effective water conservation. The study underscores the need for municipal-level initiatives to enhance water sources and advocates for increased investment in education, awareness campaigns, and policy interventions to address rural communities’ water scarcity challenges.
Predicting COVID-19 infections using multi-layer centrality measures in population-scale networks
Authors: Hedde-von Westernhagen Christine , Bagheri Ayoub , Garcia-Bernardo Javier
Published: July 2024

Understanding the spread of SARS-CoV-2 has been one of the most pressing problems of the recent past. Network models present a potent approach to studying such spreading phenomena because of their ability to represent complex social interactions. While previous studies have shown that network centrality measures are generally able to identify influential spreaders in a susceptible population, it is not yet known if they can also be used to predict infection risks. However, information about infection risks at the individual level is vital for the design of targeted interventions. Here, we use large-scale administrative data from the Netherlands to study whether centrality measures can predict the risk and timing of infections with COVID-19-like diseases. We investigate this issue leveraging the framework of multi-layer networks, which accounts for interactions taking place in different contexts, such as workplaces, households and schools. In epidemic models simulated on real-world network data from over one million individuals, we find that existing centrality measures offer good predictions of relative infection risks, and are correlated with the timing of individual infections. We however find no association between centrality measures and real SARS-CoV-2 test data, which indicates that population-scale network data alone cannot aid predictions of virus transmission.
The nematode signaling molecule ascr#18 induces prepenetration defenses in wheat against a leaf rust fungus
Authors: Kamboj Akshita , Thielmann Jennifer , Delfan Saba , Kloppe Tim , Schulz Philipp , Manohar Murli , Schroeder Frank C. , Klessig Daniel F. , Kogel Karl-Heinz
Published: July 2024

Leaf rust, caused by the pathogenic biotrophic rust fungus Puccinia triticina (Pt), is one of the most destructive wheat diseases worldwide; its negative impact on crop yields is exacerbated by increasing temperatures due to climate change. Ascarosides are nematode pheromones that induce resistance to microbial pathogens and pests in a wide range of crops, making them valuable components in biocontrol scenarios. We investigated the effect on infection of various wheat (Triticum aestivum) genotypes with the virulent Pt race 77W × R by ascr#18, the major ascaroside secreted into the rhizosphere by plant-parasitic nematodes. Spraying the leaves with ascr#18 24 h before inoculation with fungal uredospores slowed disease development and resulted in a reduction of the number of rust pustules on treated compared to untreated leaves. Dose–response analysis over the nano- and micromolar range revealed a broad optimum concentration down to 0.01nM ascr#18. Microscopic analysis showed very early arrest of the fungus at the appressorial stage, with associated enhanced local accumulation of H2O2 and abortive stoma penetration. Similarly, ascr#18 also induced strong resistance to Pt race PKTTS, confirming its race-unspecific biocontrol activity. The results of this study are consistent with and extend previous research that has shown that ascr#18 activates plant immunity and thus protects plants from pathogens even at very low doses.
Is informal telework a threat to work-family reconciliation? Comparing the implications of formal and informal telework for work-family conflicts
Authors: Schwarz Antje , Abendroth Anja-Kristin
Published: July 2024

The study analyses the relationship between formal and informal telework and work-family conflicts using the job-demands and resources (JD-R) model. Previously, the model has more frequently been applied to understand the implications of telework without distinguishing between formal telework and informal telework outside contracted working hours. We conducted cross-sectional OLS-regressions on pilot data from the European Social Survey compiled in 2019. The results show that formal telework is associated with fewer, and informal telework with more work-family conflicts. While formal telework appears as a resource, informal telework rather functions as a demand. Additional analyses report that formal teleworkers are nevertheless at risk of work-family conflicts because formal telework often goes hand in hand with informal telework and, thus, work-family conflicts.

Practical Relevance: While formal telework can facilitate the reconciliation of work and family life, employees are at risk of counteracting this dynamic when telework is conducted informally during paid or unpaid overtime. The findings suggest that it is important for managers, HR managers and employees to be aware of the potentials and risks of frequent teleworking that come with the ability to work anytime and anywhere in order to avoid unintended consequences. In this context, an organisational culture that values adherence to schedules and ‘switching off’ at the end of the workday, even under conditions of high workloads and low personnel resources, can be beneficial.
Can probiotics be used in the prevention and treatment of bronchial asthma?
Authors: Kleniewska Paulina , Pawliczak Rafał
Published: July 2024

Asthma is a lifelong condition with varying degrees of severity and susceptibility to symptom control. Recent studies have examined the effects of individual genus, species, and strains of probiotic microorganisms on the course of asthma. The present review aims to provide an overview of current knowledge on the use of probiotic microorganisms, mainly bacteria of the genus Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, in asthma prevention and treatment. Recent data from clinical trials and mouse models of allergic asthma indicate that probiotics have therapeutic potential in this condition. Animal studies indicate that probiotic microorganisms demonstrate anti-inflammatory activity, attenuate airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR), and reduce airway mucus secretion. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled human trials found that combining multi-strain probiotics with prebiotics yielded promising outcomes in the treatment of clinical manifestations of asthma. It appears that probiotic supplementation is safe and significantly reduces the frequency of asthma exacerbations, as well as improved forced expiratory volume and peak expiratory flow parameters, and greater attenuation of inflammation. Due to the small number of available clinical trials, and the use of a wide range of probiotic microorganisms and assessment methods, it is not possible to draw clear conclusions regarding the use of probiotics as asthma treatments.
On the Temporal Tweezing of Cavity Solitons
Authors: Rossi Julia , Chandramouli Sathyanarayanan , Carretero-González Ricardo , Kevrekidis Panayotis G.
Published: July 2024

Motivated by the work of Jang et al., Nat Commun 6:7370 (2015), where the authors experimentally tweeze cavity solitons in a passive loop of optical fiber, we study the amenability to tweezing of cavity solitons as the properties of a localized tweezer are varied. The system is modeled by the Lugiato-Lefever equation, a variant of the complex Ginzburg-Landau equation. We produce an effective, localized, trapping tweezer potential by assuming a Gaussian phase-modulation of the holding beam. The potential for tweezing is then assessed as the total (temporal) displacement and speed of the tweezer are varied, and corresponding phase diagrams are presented. As the relative speed of the tweezer is increased we find two possible dynamical scenarios: successful tweezing and release of the cavity soliton. We also deploy a non-conservative variational approximation (NCVA) based on a Lagrangian description which reduces the original dissipative partial differential equation to a set of coupled ordinary differential equations for the cavity soliton parameters. We illustrate the ability of the NCVA to accurately predict the separatrix between successful and failed tweezing. This showcases the versatility of the NCVA to provide a low-dimensional description of the experimental realization of the temporal tweezing.