bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Thermal Regime and a Water Circulation in a Very Deep Lake: Lake Tazawa, Japan
Authors: Chikita Kazuhisa A. , Oyagi Hideo , Amita Kazuhiro
Published: March 2024

A thermal system in the very deep Lake Tazawa (maximum depth, 423 m) was investigated by estimating the heat budget. In the heat budget estimate, the net heat input at the lake’s surface and the heat input by river inflow and groundwater inflow were considered. Then, the heat loss by snowfall onto the lake’s surface was taken into account. Meanwhile, the lake water temperature was monitored at 0.2 m to the bottom by mooring temperature loggers for more than two years. The heat storage change of the lake from the loggers was calibrated by frequent vertical measurements of water temperature at every 0.1 m pitch by a profiler with high accuracy (±0.01 °C). The heat storage change (W/m2) obtained by the temperature loggers reasonably accorded to that from the heat budget estimate. In the heat budget, the net heat input at lake surface dominated the heat storage change, but significant heat loss by river inflow sporadically occurred, caused by the relatively large discharge from a reservoir in the upper region. How deeply the vertical water circulation in the lake occurs in winter was judged according to the differences between water temperatures at 0.2 m depth and at the bottom and between vertical profiles of dissolved oxygen over winter. It is strongly suggested that the whole water circulation process does not occur every winter, and if it does, it is very weak. A consistent increase in the water temperature at the bottom is probably due to the conservation of geothermal heat by high frequency of incomplete vertical water circulation.
An Aminoglycoside-Sparing Regimen with Double Beta-Lactam to Successfully Treat Granulicatella adiacens Prosthetic Aortic Valve Endocarditis—Time to Change Paradigm?
Authors: Pagotto Alberto , Campanile Floriana , Conti Paola , Prataviera Francesca , Della Siega Paola , Flammini Sarah , Giuliano Simone , Martini Luca , Pecori Davide , Sartor Assunta , Screm Maria , Semenzin Tosca , Tascini Carlo
Published: March 2024

(1) Background: Granulicatella adiacens is a former nutritionally variant streptococci (NVS). NVS infective endocarditis (IE) is generally characterized by a higher rate of morbidity and mortality, partially due to difficulties in choosing the most adequate microbiological culture method and the most effective treatment strategy, and partially due to higher rates of complications, such as heart failure, peripheral septic embolism, and peri-valvular abscess, as well as a higher rate of valve replacement. Depending on the affected valve (native valve endocarditisNVE, or prosthetic valve endocarditisPVE), the American Heart Association (AHA) 2015 treatment guidelines (GLs) suggest penicillin G, ampicillin, or ceftriaxone plus gentamicin (2 weeks for NVE and up to 6 weeks for PVE), while vancomycin alone may be a reasonable alternative in patients who are intolerant of β-lactam therapy. The European Society of Cardiology (ESC) 2023 GLs recommend treating NVE with penicillin G, ceftriaxone, or vancomycin for 6 weeks, suggesting combined with an aminoglycoside (AG) for at least the first 2 weeks only for PVE; likewise, the same recommendations for IE due to Enterococcus faecalis. (2) Methods: Starting from the case of a 51-year-old man with G. adiacens aortic bio-prosthesis IE who was successfully treated with aortic valve replacement combined with double beta-lactams, an AG-sparing regimen, we performed microbiology tests in order to validate this potential treatment change. (3) Results: As for E. faecalis IE, we found that the combination of ampicillin plus cephalosporines (like ceftriaxone or ceftobiprole) showed a synergistic effect in vitro, probably due to wider binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), thus contributing to enhanced bacterial killing and good clinical outcome, as well as avoiding the risk of nephrotoxicity due to AG association therapy. (4) Conclusions: Further studies are required to confirm this hypothesis, but double beta-lactams and an adequate sourcecontrol could be a choice in treating G. adiacens IE.
A Vulnerability Index to Assess the Risk of SARS-CoV-2-Related Hospitalization/Death: Urgent Need for an Update after Diffusion of Anti-COVID Vaccines
Authors: Lapi Francesco , Marconi Ettore , Domnich Alexander , Cricelli Iacopo , Rossi Alessandro , Grattagliano Ignazio , Icardi Giancarlo , Cricelli Claudio
Published: March 2024

Background: There are algorithms to predict the risk of SARS-CoV-2-related complications. Given the spread of anti-COVID vaccination, which sensibly modified the burden of risk of the infection, these tools need to be re-calibrated. Therefore, we updated our vulnerability index, namely, the Health Search (HS)-CoVulnerabiltyIndex (VI)d (HS-CoVId), to predict the risk of SARS-CoV-2-related hospitalization/death in the primary care setting. Methods: We formed a cohort of individuals aged ≥15 years and diagnosed with COVID-19 between 1 January and 31 December 2021 in the HSD. The date of COVID-19 diagnosis was the study index date. These patients were eligible if they had received an anti-COVID vaccine at least 15 days before the index date. Patients were followed up from the index date until one of the following events, whichever came first: COVID-19-related hospitalization/death (event date), end of registration with their GPs, and end of the study period (31 December 2022). To calculate the incidence rate of COVID-19-related hospitalization/death, a patient-specific score was derived through linear combination of the coefficients stemming from a multivariate Cox regression model. Its prediction performance was evaluated by obtaining explained variation, discrimination, and calibration measures. Results: We identified 2192 patients who had received an anti-COVID vaccine from 1 January to 31 December 2021. With this cohort, we re-calibrated the HS-CoVId by calculating optimism-corrected pseudo-R2, AUC, and calibration slope. The final model reported a good predictive performance by explaining 58% (95% CI: 48–71%) of variation in the occurrence of hospitalizations/deaths, the AUC was 83 (95% CI: 77–93%), and the calibration slope did not reject the equivalence hypothesis (p-value = 0.904). Conclusions: Two versions of HS-CoVId need to be differentially adopted to assess the risk of COVID-19-related complications among vaccinated and unvaccinated subjects. Therefore, this functionality should be operationalized in related patient- and population-based informatic tools intended for general practitioners.
Prevalence and Correlates of Food and/or Housing Instability among Men and Women Post-9/11 US Veterans
Authors: Cypel Yasmin S. , Maguen Shira , Bernhard Paul A. , Culpepper William J. , Schneiderman Aaron I.
Published: March 2024

Food and/or housing instability (FHI) has been minimally examined in post-9/11 US veterans. A randomly selected nationally representative sample of men and women veterans (n = 38,633) from the post-9/11 US veteran population were mailed invitation letters to complete a survey on health and well-being. Principal component analysis and multivariable logistic regression were used to identify FHI’s key constructs and correlates for 15,166 men and women respondents (9524 men, 5642 women). One-third of veterans reported FHI; it was significantly more likely among women than men (crude odds ratio = 1.31, 95% CI:1.21–1.41) and most prevalent post-service (64.2%). “Mental Health/Stress/Trauma”, “Physical Health”, and “Substance Use” were FHI’s major constructs. In both sexes, significant adjusted associations (p < 0.01) were found between FHI and homelessness, depression, adverse childhood experiences, low social support, being enlisted, being non-deployed, living with seriously ill/disabled person(s), and living in dangerous neighborhoods. In men only, posttraumatic stress disorder (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.37, 95% CI:1.14–1.64), cholesterol level (elevated versus normal, AOR = 0.79, 95% CI:0.67–0.92), hypertension (AOR = 1.25, 95% CI:1.07–1.47), and illegal/street drug use (AOR = 1.28, 95% CI:1.10–1.49) were significant (p < 0.01). In women only, morbid obesity (AOR = 1.90, 95%CI:1.05–3.42) and diabetes (AOR = 1.53, 95% CI:1.06–2.20) were significant (p < 0.05). Interventions are needed that jointly target adverse food and housing, especially for post-9/11 veteran women and enlisted personnel.
Investigation of O/N Ordering in Perovskite-Type Oxynitrides La1−xYxTa(O,N)3 on Long Range and Short Scale
Authors: Barroso Margarida , Dai Mian , Bubeck Cora , Scavini Marco , Cuello Gabriel J. , Zhang Hongbin , Weidenkaff Anke , Widenmeyer Marc
Published: March 2024

Oxynitrides such as LaTa(O,N)3 are attractive materials as photoelectrodes for photoelectrocatalytic solar water splitting. The potential anionic ordering in their perovskite-type structure has been shown to impact the materials’ properties. Given the importance attributed to it, the present study reports a detailed experimental analysis supported by simulations of the anionic ordering of La1−xYxTa(O,N)3. The influence of O/N and yttrium content on the anionic order was assessed. Neutron diffraction analysis was performed on four different nominal compositions—LaTaON2, LaTaO2N, La0.9Y0.1TaON2, and La0.9Y0.1TaO2N—at 10 K and 300 K to study potential long-range ordering. Neutron pair distribution function (PDF) analysis was performed on all samples at 10 K and on non-Y-substituted samples at 300 K to evaluate short-range ordering. There was no evidence of long-range O/N order in any of the compounds. In contrast, at a short range (1.5 Å ≤ r < 6 Å), a Pnma (a−b+a−) tilting pattern and local cis-ordering of the anions were seen. The latter faded rapidly, leaving the Pnma tilting pattern in a 6 Å ≤ r ≤ 11 Å range. At higher distances, the PDF analysis agreed with the Imma (a−b0a−) O/N disordered long-range structure. As the O/N content changed, not much difference in behavior was observed. Yttrium substitution introduced some disorder in the structure; nonetheless, it showed marginal influence on octahedral tilting and anionic ordering.
Concomitant Glenohumeral Pathologies in Patients with Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocations: How Do Acute and Chronic Instabilities Differ?
Authors: Vetter Philipp , Massih Manije , Bellmann Frederik , Eckl Larissa , Moroder Philipp , Lazaridou Asimina , Scheibel Markus
Published: March 2024

Background: Concomitant glenohumeral pathologies may be present in patients with acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) dislocations. This study aims to record and compare the prevalence and treatment of CGP in cases with acute and chronic ACJ dislocations. Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional binational, bicentric study included patients that underwent arthroscopically assisted stabilization for acute (group A) and chronic (group C) ACJ dislocations. Intraoperatively, CGPs and eventual treatments (debridement and reconstructive measures) were recorded. Results: The study included 540 patients (87% men; mean age 39.4 years), with 410 (75.9%) patients in group A and 130 (24.1%) in group C. Patients in group C were older (p < 0.001). The CGP prevalence was 30.7%, without a difference between groups A and C (p = 0.19). Supraspinatus tendon (SSP) and labral lesions were most common. Within group C, CGPs were more prevalent in surgery-naïve patients (p = 0.002). Among 49 patients with previous surgical treatment, CGPs tended to be more common in patients with prior open surgery than arthroscopically assisted surgery (p = 0.392). Increased CGP prevalence was associated with higher age (r = 0.97; p = 0.004) (up to 63% in the oldest age group, but also 17% for youngest age group) and higher in cases with Rockwood type-IIIB injuries compared to type-V injuries (p = 0.028), but type-IIIB injuries included more group C cases (p < 0.001). The most frequently found CGPs were treated by debridement rather than reconstructive interventions (SSP and labrum: p < 0.001, respectively). Conclusions: This study shows that one in three patients with ACJ instabilities has a CGP, especially elderly patients. Most of the CGPs were treated by debridement rather than constructive interventions.
Efficacy of Topical Application of a Skin Moisturizer Containing Pseudo-Ceramide and a Eucalyptus Leaf Extract on Atopic Dermatitis: A Review
Authors: Takagi Yutaka
Published: March 2024

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease associated with pruritus, an impaired cutaneous barrier function and a disrupted water holding capacity. Levels of ceramides, which are major components of intercellular lipids and are crucial for their functions, are decreased in the stratum corneum of patients with AD. Treatments to increase ceramide levels are effective for AD care. Synthetic pseudo-ceramide (cetyl PG hydroxyethyl palmitamide (SLE66)), which has a structure developed via molecular designs, and a eucalyptus leaf extract (ELE) enhance ceramide synthesis in the epidermis. The topical application of a skin moisturizer containing SLE66 and ELE improves the barrier functions and water holding capacity of AD skin accompanied by an improvement in skin symptoms. This is a multifaceted review that summarizes the efficacy of the topical application of a skin moisturizer containing SLE66 and ELE on atopic dermatitis.
Antimicrobial Hydrophobic SiO2-TiO2-PDMS Films: Effect of Indirect Ultrasonic Irradiation on the Synthesis Process
Authors: Rosales Alicia , Mandujano Hugo , Cervantes-Chávez José Antonio , Esquivel Karen
Published: March 2024

Film applications’ recent advances in the alimentary industry mainly focus on extending product shelf life. Researchers have investigated the use of nanomaterials as active packaging to shield food product contents from the outside elements and prevent bacterial development. In this context, the use of sonochemistry energy offers a friendly and efficient opportunity to obtain this kind of film. However, access to an ultrasonic homogenizer is limited because of the cost and accessories. In this work, a self-cleaning coating based on the SiO2-TiO2-PDMS composite was obtained by the sol–gel method coupled with indirect sonochemical energy. Two sonication reaction times were used to investigate its impact on the final composite’s chemical, morphological, and antibacterial properties. TEM and SEM techniques indicate an amorphous morphology and superficial cracks in SiO2-TiO2-PDMS films over aluminum foil. At the same time, AFM reveals a rise in rugosity with a value of Ra = 18.7 ± 2.47 nm, increasing the sonochemical reaction time. Non-significative changes by FTIR-ATR analysis were observed. The antibacterial evaluation was conducted, and the results indicate that both composites exhibited superior effectiveness. Specifically, the S40 film demonstrated a significant reduction in the growth of Gram-negative cells (E. coli, P. putida, and P. aeruginosa), with reductions ranging from 50% to 95%. In contrast, the reduction in Gram-positive cells (S. aureus) was less than 10%. These findings underscore the potential application of the SiO2-TiO2-PDMS film as active packaging.
Plasma-Enhanced Alginate Pre-Treatment of Short Flax Fibers for Improved Thermo-Mechanical Properties of PLA Composites
Authors: Moradkhani Ghane , Profili Jacopo , Destrieux Alex , Robert Mathieu , Laroche Gaétan , Elkoun Saïd , Mighri Frej , Vuillaume Pascal Y.
Published: March 2024

This research centered on enhancing the mechanical properties of sustainable composite materials made from short flax fibers. Challenges associated with fiber–matrix adhesion and moisture absorption were systematically addressed. A water–alginate pre-treatment, combined with plasma modification, was employed to stabilize the fibers, ensuring their optimal preparation and improved compatibility with biopolymers. A thorough investigation of the effect of the plasma modulation using a duty cycle (DC) was conducted, and extensive physicochemical and mechanical analyses were performed. These efforts revealed conditions that preserved fiber integrity while significantly improving surface characteristics. Techniques such as optical emission spectroscopy (OES), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) were utilized, providing a comprehensive understanding of the transformations induced by the plasma treatment. The findings underscored the critical role of alginate and precise plasma settings in enhancing the mechanical properties of the composites. Ultimately, this study made a substantial contribution to the field of eco-friendly materials, showcasing the potential of short flax fibers in sustainable composite applications and setting the stage for future advancements in this area.
Ultrasonic Nondestructive Evaluation of Composite Bond Strength: Quantification through Bond Quality Index (BQI)
Authors: Banerjee Sourav , Tavaf Vahid , Indaleeb Mustahseen M.
Published: March 2024

This article presents a concept, materials, and methods to devise a Bond Quality Index (BQI) for assessing composite bond quality, approximately correlating to the respective bond strength. Interface bonding is the common mechanism to join two composite structural components. Ensuring the health and quality of the bond line between two load-bearing composite structures is crucial. The article presents the classification and data-driven distinction between two types of bond lines between similar structural components. The interface bonds in composite plates were prepared using polyester peel ply and TX-1040 nylon peel ply. For all the plates, ultrasonic inspection through scanning acoustic microscopy (SAM) (>10 MHz) was performed before and after localized failure of the plate by impinging energy. Energy was impinged 0–10 J/cm2 of in the 16-ply plates, and 0–25 J/cm2 were impinged in 40-ply plates. Followed by bond failure and SAM, a new parameter called the Bond Quality Index (BQI) was formulated using ultrasonic scan data and energy data. The BQI was found to be 0.55 and 0.45, respectively, in plates with polyester peel ply and TX-1040 nylon peel ply bonds. Further, in 40-ply plates with polyester peel ply resulted in a BQI equivalent to 3.49 compared to 0.75 in plates with a TX-1040 nylon peel ply bond. Currently, the BQI is not normalized; however, this study could be used for AI-driven normalized BQIs for all types of bonds in the future.
Analysis of the Swordfish Xiphias gladius Linnaeus, 1758 Catches by the Pelagic Longline Fleets in the Eastern Pacific Ocean
Authors: Félix-Salazar Luis Adán , Marín-Enríquez Emigdio , Aragón-Noriega Eugenio Alberto , Ramirez-Perez Jorge Saul
Published: March 2024

During the last 50 years, the increase in the efforts of the longline fleet in the Eastern Pacific Ocean (EPO) resulted in an increase in the capture of the swordfish Xiphias gladius. We analyzed a historical database of swordfish catches (1980–2020) reported by the industrial longline fleet to the Inter-American Tuna Tropical Commission (IATTC), which contains catch and effort data aggregated in monthly quadrants of 5° × 5° in the EPO. The swordfish catch reported by the international longline fleets was analyzed to evaluate the spatiotemporal variation of the catch and the different phases through which this important fishery has gone through. Different statistical models such as the Generalized Additive Mixed Model (GAMM) and the breaks for additive season and trend BFAST algorithm were used for the decomposition of the time series. Results indicated that the effort directed towards the swordfish increased in recent years and that the highest catches occurred by Peru. The adjusted GAMM explained 80% of the total temporal variation of the swordfish catch per unit effort CPUE and had a 90% prediction efficiency. The BFAST algorithm found three break points in the time series of the standardized CPUE, points associated with abrupt changes, thus defining four distinct periods, all of them statistically significant. According to the BFAST model, the current trend of swordfish CPUE is upward. It is recommended to take this finding with caution to obtain the sustainable exploitation of the swordfish fishery resource.
IRNLGD: An Edge Detection Algorithm with Comprehensive Gradient Directions for Tidal Stream Turbine
Authors: Song Dingnan , Liu Ran , Zhang Zhiwei , Yang Dingding , Wang Tianzhen
Published: March 2024

Tidal stream turbines (TSTs) harness the kinetic energy of tides to generate electricity by rotating the rotor. Biofouling will lead to an imbalance between the blades, resulting in imbalanced torque and voltage across the windings, ultimately polluting the grid. Therefore, rotor condition monitoring is of great significance for the stable operation of the system. Image-based attachment detection algorithms provide the advantage of visually displaying the location and area of faults. However, due to the limited availability of data from multiple machine types and environments, it is difficult to ensure the generalization of the network. Additionally, TST images degrade, resulting in reduced image gradients and making it challenging to extract edge and other features. In order to address the issue of limited data, a novel non-data-driven edge detection algorithm, indexed resemble-normal-line guidance detector (IRNLGD), is proposed for TST rotor attachment fault detection. Aiming to solve the problem of edge features being suppressed, IRNLGD introduces the concept of “indexed resemble-normal-line direction” and integrates multi-directional gradient information for edge determination. Real-image experiments demonstrate IRNLGD’s effectiveness in detecting TST rotor edges and faults. Evaluation on public datasets shows the superior performance of our method in detecting fine edges in low-light images.
A Fault-Tolerant Control Method Based on Reconfiguration SPWM Signal for Cascaded Multilevel IGBT-Based Propulsion in Electric Ships
Authors: Zhang Fan , Zhang Zhiwei , Zhang Zhonglin , Wang Tianzhen , Han Jingang , Amirat Yassine
Published: March 2024

Electric ships have been developed in recent years to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In this system, inverters are the key equipment for the permanent-magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) drive system. The cascaded insulated-gated bipolar transistor (IGBT)-based H-bridge inverter is one of the most attractive multilevel topologies for modern electric ship applications. Usually, the fault-tolerant control strategy is designed to keep the ship in operation for a certain period. However, the fault-tolerant control strategy with hardware redundancy is expensive and slow in response. In addition, after fault-tolerant control, the ship’s PMSM may experience shock and overheating, and IGBT life is reduced due to uneven switching frequency distribution. Therefore, a stratified reconfiguration carrier disposition Sinusoidal Pulse Width Modulation (SPWM) fault-tolerant control strategy is proposed. The proposed strategy can achieve fault tolerance without any extra hardware. A reconfiguration carrier is applied to improve the fundamental amplitude of inverter output voltage to maintain the operation of the ship’s PMSM. In addition, the available states of faulty H-bridge are fully used to contribute to the output. These can improve the life of IGBTs by reducing and balancing the power loss of each H-bridge. The principles of the proposed strategy are described in detail in this study. Taking a cascaded H-bridge seven-level inverter as an example, simulation and experimental results verify that the proposed strategy, in general, has a potential future application on electric ships.
Chromogenic, Biochemical and Proteomic Identification of Yeast and Yeast-like Microorganisms Isolated from Clinical Samples from Animals of Costa Rica
Authors: Calderón-Hernández Alejandra , Castro-Bonilla Nelly , Cob-Delgado Mariamalia
Published: March 2024

Yeast infections are challenging human and animal medicine due to low rates of detection and the emergence of unknown ecology isolates. The aim of this study was to verify the biochemical identification of yeasts and yeast-like microorganisms obtained from animals comparing the results with chromogenic media and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF MS). Between January and August 2023, yeast and yeast-like isolates from samples of animals with suspicion of mycosis were identified using Vitek® 2 Compact, Brilliance® Candida Agar and MALDI Biotyper® MSP. A total of 39 cases were included, and 45 isolations were obtained. Cryptococcus neoformans (15.5%, 7/45), Meyerozyma guilliermondii (13.3%, 6/45), Candida parapsilosis (11.1%, 5/45), Candida albicans and Candida tropicalis (8.9%, each one 4/45) were the most identified organisms. There was full agreement with the three identification methods in 71.1% (32/45) of the isolates, disagreement on species in 17.8% (8/45), disagreement on genus and species in 6.7% (3/45) and, in 4.4% (2/45), there was no matched pattern in MALDI-TOF to compare the results. Biochemical methods are a good option in laboratories where proteomics are not available, and chromogenic media enhances diagnostics by detecting mixed infections. Surveillance must be implemented to improve the detection of agents shared between humans and animals.
New Vision of Cell Walls in Aspergillus fumigatus from Solid-State NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Gautam Isha , Singh Kalpana , Dickwella Widanage Malitha C. , Yarava Jayasubba Reddy , Wang Tuo
Published: March 2024

The fungal cell wall plays a critical role in regulating cellular integrity and communication, and serves as a frontline defense against stress. It is also a prime target for the development of antifungal agents. The cell wall is comprised of diverse polysaccharides and proteins and poses a challenging target for high-resolution structural characterization. Recently, the solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (ssNMR) analysis of intact Aspergillus fumigatus cells has provided atomic-level insights into the structural polymorphism and functional assembly principles of carbohydrate components within the cell wall. This physical perspective, alongside structural information from biochemical assays, offers a renewed understanding of the cell wall as a highly complex and dynamic organelle. Here, we summarize key conceptual advancements in the structural elucidation of A. fumigatus mycelial and conidial cell walls and their responses to stressors. We also highlight underexplored areas and discuss the opportunities facilitated by technical advancements in ssNMR spectroscopy.
Five New Species of Gymnopilus from Xizang Autonomous Region of China and Surrounding Areas
Authors: Yang Wen-Qiang , Li Jia-Xin , He Mao-Qiang , Wang Shi-Hui , Zhu Xin-Yu , Phurbu Dorji , Yun Jian-Min , Zhao Rui-Lin
Published: March 2024

The species of Gymnopilus (Hymenogastraceae, Agricales) are commonly recognized as wood-decaying fungi. Certain members of this genus have been identified as psilocybin-producing mushrooms. Gymnopilus exhibits a diverse range and has a global distribution. In this study, a total of seventy-eight specimens were gathered from ten provinces in China. A comprehensive molecular phylogenetic analysis was conducted, employing gene sequences including ITS, nrLSU, nrSSU, rpb1, rpb2, and tef1-α. Additionally, morphological examinations were also carried out. The phylogenetic topology of Gymnopilus from this study generally agreed with previous studies and facilitated the identification of all those specimens. As a result, eleven species, including five newly discovered ones named Gy. gyirongensis, Gy. variisporus, Gy. tomentosiceps, Gy. tenuibasidialis, and Gy. aurantipileatus, were recognized. Significantly, four of the five newly identified species are native to the Xizang Autonomous Region, emphasizing their specialization in this distinctive habitat. This research contributes to our comprehension of Gymnopilus diversity and lays the groundwork for the conservation and sustainable utilization of Gymnopilus resources.
Renewable Energy Stocks’ Performance and Climate Risk: An Empirical Analysis
Authors: Li Lingyu , Zheng Xianrong , Wang Shuxi
Published: March 2024

This article studies the relationship between renewable energy stocks’ performance and climate risk. It shows that publicly held renewable energy stocks underperform as a reaction to climate policy information releases, modeled by feed-in tariff (FIT) legislation announcements. The study examined stock price behaviors 2 days before and 30 days after FIT policy announcements. The stock sample used in the study has 3702 firm-day combinations, which included 180 cleantech firms and 32 events from 2007 to 2017. Based on the residual analysis of the sample’s abnormal return, it indicated that the FIT announcements are associated with significant declines in returns. The cumulative abnormal return until Day 18 was a significant −0.83%, while the average abnormal return on the day was −0.16% at normal levels. The study partially excluded the likelihood of a transitory result by varying the measurement horizon. It also adopted both the market model and the Fama–French three-factor models to rule out model misspecification when estimating abnormal returns and thus increased the robustness. In fact, the results were stable to changes in estimating the model’s specifications. In addition, the study compared the portfolio’s performance with mimicking portfolios in terms of size, book-to-market equity (BE/ME), and the firms’ geographic location. It demonstrated that the documented anomaly of the portfolio of renewable energy companies is robust.
Influence of Electronic Word-Of-Mouth on Restaurant Choice Decisions: Does It Depend on Gender in the Millennial Generation?
Authors: Haro-Sosa Giovanny , Moliner-Velázquez Beatriz , Gil-Saura Irene , Fuentes-Blasco María
Published: March 2024

Given the exponential growth of eWOM, especially among the millennial generation, an analysis of the consultation behaviour of online opinions is essential to better understanding the decision-making process. The aim of this proposal is to analyse how the motivations towards eWOM consultation contribute to the final adoption of eWOM, especially in the restaurant context, exploring the relationship chain “motivations to consult eWOM—intention to consult eWOM—adoption to consult eWOM”. Moreover, studying the moderating effect of gender in this chain is argued. Based on a sample of 341 millennials with experience in reading online reviews and visiting restaurants, a causal model was estimated through PLS estimation in the geographic area of Ecuador. The results confirm that millennials’ motivations influence directly their intention to consult eWOM and indirectly on eWOM adoption. In addition, gender does not show a significant effect on the chain of effects. Given that virtual platforms have the potential to influence men and women equally, the communication efforts of restaurants focused on this target audience and carried out on social media must focus on aspects other than gender.
Mobile Payment Innovation Ecosystem and Mechanism: A Case Study of Taiwan’s Servicescapes
Authors: Ng Wai-Kit , Chen Shi , Chen Wei-Hung , Chen Chun-Liang , Jiang Jhih-Ling
Published: March 2024

This paper examines how businesses in Taiwan’s servicescapes are adapting to the growing trend of mobile payments and innovation ecosystems. Through the analysis of four case studies, we uncover the strategies these firms employ to address the challenges posed by changing consumer payment habits. Our research reveals that these companies are establishing efficient mechanisms within their ecosystems, supported by well-structured organizational frameworks. By leveraging innovation ecosystems, they are reshaping financial services and promoting collaborative growth among participants through technology, platforms, resource sharing, and knowledge exchange. This collaborative approach is driving significant changes in the sector, helping these businesses navigate through various challenges while fostering innovation and growth. Additionally, the scarcity of comprehensive observations of the digital payment ecosystem highlights the necessity for further exploration of actor interactions, regulatory mechanisms, and ecosystem management strategies. Such research efforts are crucial for enhancing our understanding of the evolving landscape of digital payments and innovation ecosystems, facilitating informed decision-making and promoting sustainable development in this dynamic industry.
Nutritional Recommendations for Pregnant Women Receiving Dialysis: A Scoping Review
Authors: Cutajar Elyce , Lambert Kelly
Published: March 2024

Pregnancy in the dialysing population is an infrequent but increasing event. There is a lack of contemporary guidance regarding the nutritional management of this complex patient group. The aim of this scoping review was to identify, evaluate and summarise the evidence base describing nutritional recommendations for pregnant women receiving dialysis. A systematic search strategy of four databases and the grey literature was conducted. Eligible publications contained reference to recommendations regarding nutrition, supplements, breastfeeding, dietary patterns, and/or weight recommendations for pregnant dialysing women. A total of 136 eligible records were included for synthesis including 66 case reports/case series, 46 reviews, 15 book chapters, 5 editorials, and 4 consensus guidelines/position papers. Recommendations regarding energy, protein, dietary patterns, weight, and vitamin and mineral supplementation were common. However, significant discrepancy across these recommendations was evident. There were limited recommendations regarding other nutrients and breastfeeding. A summary of nutritional recommendations to guide clinical practice was constructed. Pregnancy planning, pre-conception dietetic counselling, interprofessional education, and the guidance synthesised in this review could be utilised by clinicians to improve clinical management and optimise outcomes in these patients. Future research should explore the experiences and perspectives of pregnant dialysing women, investigate nutrient losses during intensive dialysis, and evaluate postpartum follow-up.
Dynamics of Peatland Fires in South Sumatra in 2019: Role of Groundwater Levels
Authors: Irfan Muhammad , Koriyanti Erry , Saleh Khairul , Hadi  , Safrina Sri , Awaludin  , Sulaiman Albertus , Akhsan Hamdi , Suhadi  , Suwignyo Rujito Agus , Choi Eunho , Iskandar Iskhaq
Published: March 2024

During the dry season, extensive peatland fires in South Sumatra and another peatland in Indonesia result in environmental damage and pose health risks to humans. The Indonesian Government has implemented several measures to prevent the recurrence of these fires. One such measure involves the establishment of observation stations to monitor hydrometeorological parameters in different peatlands across Indonesia, including those in South Sumatra. To effectively control fires in South Sumatra’s peatland and minimize hotspot occurrences, it is essential to determine hydrometeorological parameters that can serve as fire control indicators. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between groundwater levels and hotspot occurrences by analyzing groundwater level data collected from six Peat Restoration Agency stations in South Sumatra’s peatland, along with hotspot data obtained from Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer satellite measurements. The findings reveal a significant correlation between groundwater levels and hotspots at the six stations. As the GWL increased, the number of hotspots tended to decrease, and vice versa. This means that GWL can be used as a controlling variable for hotspot emergence. To effectively minimize hotspot occurrences, it is recommended to maintain a minimum groundwater level of −0.45 ± 0.09 m in the peatland of South Sumatra.
Spatial–Temporal Differentiation and Trend Prediction of Coupling Coordination Degree of Port Environmental Efficiency and Urban Economy: A Case Study of the Yangtze River Delta
Authors: Wang Min , Lan Yu , Li Huayu , Jing Xiaodong , Lu Sitong , Deng Kexin
Published: March 2024

Green development is a primary path for ports and cities to achieve a low-carbon transition under the Sustainable Development Goals and a powerful driving force to elevate regional port–city relations to a high level of coordination. In this paper, twenty port cities in the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) were selected and port environmental efficiency (PEE) was calculated through the window SBM model, while the EW-TOPSIS model was used to evaluate high-quality urban economic development (HED). The coupling coordination degree (CCD) model, the kernel density model, GIS spatial analysis, and the grey prediction model were used to further explore the spatial–temporal dynamic evolution and prediction of the CCD between PEE and HED. The results suggested that: (1) PEE fluctuation in the YRD is increasing, with a trend of seaports achieving higher PEE than river ports; (2) HED in the YRD shows upward trends, and the polarization of individual cities is obvious; (3) Temporally, the CCD in the YRD has risen from 0.438 to 0.518. Shanghai consistently maintains intermediate coordination, and Jiangsu has experienced the most significant increase in CCD. Spatially, CCD is led by Lianyungang, Suzhou, Shanghai, and Ningbo-Zhoushan, displaying a decreasing distribution pattern from east to west. The projection for 2026 suggests that all port cities within the YRD will have transitioned to a phase of orderly development. To enhance the coordination level in the YRD, policymakers should consider the YRD as a whole to position the ports functionally and manage them hierarchically, utilize the ports to break down resource boundaries to promote the synergistic division of labor among cities, and then tilt the resources towards Anhui.
(Heritage) Russian Case Marking: Variation and Paths of Change
Authors: Nagy Naomi , Petrosov Julia
Published: March 2024

Russian’s six cases and multiple noun classes make case marking potentially challenging ground for heritage speakers. Indeed, morphological levelling, “probably the best-described feature of language loss”, has been substantiated. One study from 2006 showed that Heritage Russian speakers in the USA produced canonical or prescribed markers for only 13% of preposition+nominal sequences. Conversely, another study from 2020 found that Heritage Russian speakers in Toronto produce a 94% canonical case marker rate in conversational speech. To explore the effects of methodological differences across several studies, the current paper circumscribes the context to preposition+nominal sequences in Heritage Russian speech from the same Toronto corpus as used by the 2020 study but mirroring the domain investigated by Polinsky and including a Homeland comparison to consider changes in both the rates of use of canonical case marking and distributional patterns of non-canonical use. Regression models show more canonical case marking in more frequent words, an independent effect of slightly more mismatch by later generations, but less morphological levelling than reported by Polinsky. Lexicon size does not predict case marking rates as strongly as language usage patterns do, but generation, since immigration, is the best-fitting social predictor. We confirm (small) rate changes in Heritage (vs. Homeland) Russian canonical case marking but not in patterns of levelling.
Special Issue on Laser Surface Engineering for Tribology
Authors: Ji Xiulin , Sun Yong
Published: March 2024

The realm of laser surface engineering has seen continual development, particularly within the realm of tribology, a field dedicated to the examination of friction, wear, and lubrication between interacting surfaces in relative motion [...]
Influence of Zr Addition on the Microstructure and Hydrogenation Kinetics of Ti50−xV25Cr25Zrx (x = 0, 5, 7, and 9) Alloys
Authors: Zeng Qianying , Wang Feng , Li Zhengxi , Rong Maohua , Wang Jiang , Wang Zhongmin
Published: March 2024

Due to the poor activation performance and kinetics of Ti50V25Cr25 alloys, the element Zr was added to improve the phase structure of the alloy and achieve a high-performance hydrogen storage alloy. The Ti50−xV25Cr25Zrx (x = 0, 5, 7, and 9) system alloys were prepared by arc melting. The alloys were analyzed using an X-ray diffractometer (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and differential scanning calorimeter (DSC). The hydrogen storage capabilities of the alloys were also obtained by the Sievert volumetric method. The results indicated that the alloy with Zr added had a combination of the C15 Laves phase and the BCC phase, whereas the Zr-free alloy had a BCC single phase. The partial replacement of Zr with Ti resulted in an increase in the lattice parameters of the main phase. The hydrogen storage kinetic performance and activation of the alloys both significantly improved with an increasing Zr concentration. The time to reach 90% of the maximum hydrogen storage capacity decreased to 2946 s, 230 s, and 120 s, respectively, with the increases in Zr concentration. The initial hydrogen absorption content of the alloys increased and then decreased after the addition of the element Zr. The second phase expanded with an increasing Zr concentration, which in turn decreased the abundance of the BCC main phase. The Ti43V25Cr25Zr7 alloy showed good cycle stability and hydrogen-desorption performance, and it could absorb 90% of the maximum hydrogen storage capacity in around 230 s. The maximum hydrogen-absorption capacity of the alloy was 2.7 wt%. The diffusion activation energy of hydrogen desorption dropped from 102.67 kJ/mol to 92.62 kJ/mol.
Mesoporous Carbons and Highly Cross-Linking Polymers for Removal of Cationic Dyes from Aqueous Solutions—Studies on Adsorption Equilibrium and Kinetics
Authors: Zienkiewicz-Strzalka Malgorzata , Blachnio Magdalena , Derylo-Marczewska Anna , Winter Szymon , Maciejewska Malgorzata
Published: March 2024

This study presents the results of applying the methods of synthesizing mesoporous carbon and mesoporous polymer materials with an extended porous mesostructure as adsorbents for cationic dye molecules. Both types of adsorbents are synthetic materials. The aim of the presented research was the preparation, characterisation, and utilisation of obtained mesoporous adsorbents. The physicochemical properties, morphology, and porous structure characteristics of the obtained materials were determined using low-temperature nitrogen sorption isotherms, X-ray diffraction (XRD), small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), and potentiometric titration measurements. The morphology and microstructure were imaged using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The chemical characterisation of the surface chemistry of the adsorbents, which provides information about the surface-active groups, the elemental composition, and the electronic state of the elements, was carried out using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The adsorption properties of the mesoporous materials were determined using equilibrium and kinetic adsorption experiments for three selected cationic dyes (derivatives of thiazine (methylene blue) and triarylmethane (malachite green and crystal violet)). The adsorption capacity was analysed to the nanostructural and surface properties of used materials. The Generalized Langmuir equation was applied for the analysis of adsorption isotherm data. The adsorption study showed that the carbon materials have a higher sorption capacity for both methylene blue and crystal violet, e.g., 0.88–1.01 mmol/g and 0.33–0.44 mmol/g, respectively, compared to the polymer materials (e.g., 0.038–0.044 mmol/g and 0.038–0.050 mmol/g, respectively). The kinetics of dyes adsorption was closely correlated with the structural properties of the adsorbents. The kinetic data were analysed using various equations: first-order (FOE), second-order (SOE), mixed 1,2-order (MOE), multi-exponential (m-exp), and fractal-like MOE (f-MOE).
The Inhibition Action of Some Brij-Type Nonionic Surfactants on the Corrosion of OLC 45 in Various Aggressive Environments
Authors: Branzoi Florina , Băran Adriana , Mihai Marius Alexandru , Zaki Mohamed Yassine
Published: March 2024

The corrosion protection property of three Brij-type surfactants, namely, Brij 35, Brij 56 and Brij 58P, was considered on OLC 45 carbon steel in a 0.5 M H2SO4 medium. The efficacy for these organic compounds was examined using potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) methods, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) procedures, and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. We hypothesized that these surfactants hinder the corrosion for OLC 45 samples through a protecting mechanism owing to the adsorption of organic molecules that form an inhibitive film or through the formation of complex oxides. These surfactants exhibited an appreciable protective effect against OLC 45 corrosion, operating as mixed inhibitors, as could be demonstrated by their influence on the electrochemical characteristics of the metallic substrates. The adsorption of surfactants over the substrates zone conformed to the representation of the Langmuir isotherm. The effect of temperature on the electrochemical comportment of the OLC 45 specimens in H2SO4 without and with Brij at 800 ppm was examined in the temperature interval of 293 to 333 K. The negative estimate of thermodynamic attributed as Gibbs free energy of adsorption presented the spontaneity of the adsorption activity. The investigation with FT-IR and SEM established the adsorption of Brij and the constitution of the corrosive components on the OLC 45 surface. Electrochemical determinations of these surfactants indicated its anticorrosion inhibition performance and the highest inhibition of 96% was reached when the Brij 35 concentration was at 800 or 1000 ppm, while for Brij 56 and Brij 58P, the highest inhibition was obtained when their concentrations were 500, 800, or 1000 ppm.
Advanced Solid Geopolymer Formulations for Refractory Applications
Authors: Hussain Shaik , Amritphale Sudhir , Matthews John , Paul Niloy , Matthews Elizabeth , Edwards Richard
Published: March 2024

Cement, as a construction material, has low thermal resistance, inherent fire resistance, and is incombustible up to a certain degree. However, the loss of its mechanical performance and spalling are its primary issues, and it thus cannot retain its performance in refractory applications. The present study explores the performance of geopolymer formulations that have excellent fire resistance properties for potential refractory applications. This study is unique, as it investigates advanced solid geopolymer formulations that need only water to activate and bind. Various solid geopolymer formulations with fly ash as a precursor; potassium hydroxide and potassium silicate as activators; and mullite and alumina as refractory aggregates were studied for their compressive strength at up to 1100 °C and compared with their two-part conventional liquid alkaline geopolymer counterparts. Advanced solid geopolymer formulations with mullite and alumina as refractory aggregates had mechanical strength values of 84 MPa and 64 MPa post-1100 °C exposure and were further exposed to ten thermal cycles of 1100 °C to study their fatigue resistance and post-exposure compressive strengths. The geopolymer sample with mullite as a refractory aggregate yielded 115.2 MPa compressive strength after the fourth cycle of exposure. This sample was also studied for its temperature distribution upon direct flame exposure. All the geopolymer formulations displayed a drop in compressive strength at 600 °C due to viscous sintering and then a rise in strength at 1100 °C due to phase transformation. X-ray diffraction studies revealed that the formation of crystalline phases such as leucite, sanidine, and annite were responsible for the superior strengths at 1100 °C for the alumina- and mullite-based geopolymer formulations.