bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Achieving Homogeneous Microstructure and Superior Properties in High-N Austenitic Stainless Steel via a Novel Atmosphere-Switching Method
Authors: Zhang Weipeng , Li Liejun , Huang Chengcheng , Gao Jixiang , Zou Liming , Li Zhuoran , Peng Zhengwu
Published: July 2024

Powder metallurgy is widely used to fabricate high-nitrogen, nickel-free austenitic stainless steel. However, after sintering and nitriding, additional solution treatment is typically required to achieve uniform nitrogen distribution and a homogeneous austenite phase. This work proposes a novel method to eliminate the need for lengthy and high-temperature solution treatment by switching the nitrogen atmosphere to argon during the cooling process. The effects of different N2-Ar atmosphere-switching temperatures (750–1320 °C) on the phase composition, element distribution, microstructure, mechanical properties, and corrosion resistance of the studied steels were systematically investigated. Results show that cooling in the N2 atmosphere initially transforms the matrix to a fully austenitic structure enriched with nitrogen. Excessive nitrogen infiltration leads to Cr2N precipitation, inducing partial austenite decomposition and forming a multiphase structure comprising austenite, α-Fe, and Cr2N. Strategic switching from N2 to Ar reverses this reaction, yielding a high-nitrogen, chemically uniform austenitic structure. Specifically, switching at 1150 °C, the steel exhibits excellent mechanical properties and corrosion resistance, with a yield strength of 749 MPa, an ultimate tensile strength of 1030 MPa, an elongation of 38.7%, and a corrosion current of 0.06 mA/cm2, outperforming the steels cooled solely in N2 and subsequently solution-treated. This novel method offers advantages in cost reduction, energy saving, and operational effectiveness, highlighting its potential for broad industrial application.
Metabolic and Lipid Biomarkers for Pathogenic Algae, Fungi, Cyanobacteria, Mycobacteria, Gram-Positive Bacteria, and Gram-Negative Bacteria
Authors: Wood Paul L.
Published: July 2024

The utilization of metabolomics and lipidomics analytical platforms in the study of pathogenic microbes is slowly expanding. These research approaches will significantly contribute to the establishment of microbial metabolite and lipid databases of significant value to all researchers in microbiology. In this review, we present a high-level overview of some examples of biomarkers that can be used to detect the presence of microbes, monitor the expansion/decline of a microbe population, and add to our understanding of microbe biofilms and pathogenicity. In addition, increased knowledge of the metabolic functions of pathogenic microbes can contribute to our understanding of microbes that are utilized in diverse industrial applications. Our review focuses on lipids, secondary metabolites, and non-ribosomal peptides that can be monitored using electrospray ionization high-resolution mass spectrometry (ESI-HRMS).
Unraveling the Evolutionary Diet Mismatch and Its Contribution to the Deterioration of Body Composition
Authors: Assaf Sandi , Park Jason , Chowdhry Naveed , Ganapuram Meghasree , Mattathil Shelbin , Alakeel Rami , Kelly Owen
Published: July 2024

Over the millennia, patterns of food consumption have changed; however, foods were always whole foods. Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) have been a very recent development and have become the primary food source for many people. The purpose of this review is to propose the hypothesis that, forsaking the evolutionary dietary environment, and its complex milieu of compounds resulting in an extensive metabolome, contributes to chronic disease in modern humans. This evolutionary metabolome may have contributed to the success of early hominins. This hypothesis is based on the following assumptions: (1) whole foods promote health, (2) essential nutrients cannot explain all the benefits of whole foods, (3) UPFs are much lower in phytonutrients and other compounds compared to whole foods, and (4) evolutionary diets contributed to a more diverse metabolome. Evidence will be presented to support this hypothesis. Nutrition is a matter of systems biology, and investigating the evolutionary metabolome, as compared to the metabolome of modern humans, will help elucidate the hidden connections between diet and health. The effect of the diet on the metabolome may also help shape future dietary guidelines, and help define healthy foods.
Surface-Functionalized Nano-Montmorillonite and Its Application as Crude Oil Flow Improver
Authors: Liu Kechen , Slaný Michal , Golian-Struhárová Alena , Wang Hailong , Zhang Liyuan , Fu Jiyou , Chen Gang , Du Yingna
Published: July 2024

In view of the problem of poor flowability in the production and transportation of high-wax crude oil and high-viscosity crude oil, crude oil flow improvers are commonly used to reduce their viscosity and pour point. Although polymer-based crude oil flow improvers are highly effective in improving crude oil flowability, there are still problems such as high cost and the need for a large amount of solvent dilution when used. In this work, highly dispersed organic modified nano-montmorillonite was prepared by using Na-based montmorillonite and quaternary ammonium salts, and the influencing factors on the viscosity of the crude oil were investigated. The most effective modified nano-montmorillonite (B@MMT) can reduce the viscosity by 96.7% (21 °C) and depress the pour point by 15 °C. Furthermore, it has shown a high improvement in flowability in the other four different sources of crude oil, with viscosity reduction rates of 52.2, 93.4, 79.1 and 67.4%, respectively. B@MMT was characterized by FTIR, SEM, zeta potential and contact angle. Based on DSC and wax crystal structure analysis, the mechanism of the influence of B@MMT on crude oil viscosity and pour point was explored. Finally, the cost of B@MMT was estimated, and the result shows that, compared with the crude oil flow improver in use, B@MMT has considerable commercial competitive advantages.
Research on Enhancing Copper-Ammonia-Thiosulfate Eco-Friendly Gold Leaching by Magnetization of Lixiviant Solution and Their Kinetic Mechanism
Authors: Liu Zhengyu , Kou Jue , Fan Lipeng , Zhang Weibin , Tian Jie , Sun Chunbao , Li Qiang , Liu Jiubo , Xing Chengjun , Li Guanhua
Published: July 2024

In thiosulfate leaching of gold, the copper-ammonia complex serves as an oxidant and catalyst. This study examined the impact of magnetizing the copper-ammonia thiosulphate lixiviant solution on gold leaching from refractory oxidized ores. Magnetization reduced surface tension, improved wettability and infiltration, and enhanced the diffusion of leaching agents. It also increased dissolved oxygen content and boosted the catalytic efficiency of copper-ammonia complexes. These changes led to more efficient gold extraction, with column leaching showing a 4.74% improvement in extraction rates compared to non-magnetized methods and a 3.67% improvement over cyanide processes. These findings suggest that magnetized copper-ammonia thiosulphate lixiviant is a promising, environmentally friendly alternative to cyanide for refractory oxidized gold ores.
The Role of Ovalbumin in Manganese Homeostasis during Chick Embryogenesis: An EPR Spectroscopic Study
Authors: Vesković Ana , Bondžić Aleksandra M. , Popović Bijelić Ana
Published: July 2024

Ovalbumin (OVA), a protein vital for chick embryo nutrition, hydration, and antimicrobial protection, together with other egg-white proteins, migrates to the amniotic fluid and is orally absorbed by the embryo during embryogenesis. Recently, it has been shown that for optimal eggshell quality, the hen diet can be supplemented with manganese. Although essential for embryonic development, manganese in excess causes neurotoxicity. This study investigates whether OVA may be involved in the regulation of manganese levels. The binding of Mn(II) to OVA was investigated using electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. The results show that OVA binds a maximum of two Mn(II) ions, one with slightly weaker affinity, even in a 10-fold excess, suggesting it may have a protective role from Mn(II) overload. It seems that the binding of Mn(II), or the presence of excess Mn(II), does not affect OVA’s tertiary structure, as evidenced from fluorescence and UV/vis measurements. Comparative analysis with bovine and human serum albumins revealed that they exhibit higher affinities for Mn(II) than OVA, most likely due to their essentially different physiological roles. These findings suggest that OVA does not play a role in the transport and storage of manganese; however, it may be involved in embryo protection from manganese-induced toxicity.
Bismuth(III)-Catalyzed Regioselective Selenation of Indoles with Diaryl Diselenides: Synthesis of 3-Selanylindoles
Authors: Matsumura Mio , Umeda Airi , Sumi Yuika , Aiba Naoki , Murata Yuki , Yasuike Shuji
Published: July 2024

Heterocyclic aryl selenides have recently attracted considerable research interest owing to their applications in biological and pharmaceutical fields. Herein, we describe a simple and general synthesis of 3-selanylindoles via a novel regioselective C–H selenation of indoles using a bismuth reagent as a catalyst. The reactions of indoles with diselenides in the presence of 10 mol% BiI3 at 100 °C in DMF afforded the corresponding 3-selanylindoles in moderate-to-excellent yields. The reaction proceeded efficiently under aerobic conditions by adding only a catalytic amount of BiI3, which was non-hygroscopic and less toxic, and both selanyl groups of the diselenide were transferred to the desired products.
Review of the Interfacial Structure and Properties of Surfactants in Petroleum Production and Geological Storage Systems from a Molecular Scale Perspective
Authors: Jia Jihui , Yang Shu , Li Jingwei , Liang Yunfeng , Li Rongjuan , Tsuji Takeshi , Niu Ben , Peng Bo
Published: July 2024

Surfactants play a crucial role in tertiary oil recovery by reducing the interfacial tension between immiscible phases, altering surface wettability, and improving foam film stability. Oil reservoirs have high temperatures and high pressures, making it difficult and hazardous to conduct lab experiments. In this context, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation is a valuable tool for complementing experiments. It can effectively study the microscopic behaviors (such as diffusion, adsorption, and aggregation) of the surfactant molecules in the pore fluids and predict the thermodynamics and kinetics of these systems with a high degree of accuracy. MD simulation also overcomes the limitations of traditional experiments, which often lack the necessary temporal–spatial resolution. Comparing simulated results with experimental data can provide a comprehensive explanation from a microscopic standpoint. This article reviews the state-of-the-art MD simulations of surfactant adsorption and resulting interfacial properties at gas/oil–water interfaces. Initially, the article discusses interfacial properties and methods for evaluating surfactant-formed monolayers, considering variations in interfacial concentration, molecular structure of the surfactants, and synergistic effect of surfactant mixtures. Then, it covers methods for characterizing microstructure at various interfaces and the evolution process of the monolayers’ packing state as a function of interfacial concentration and the surfactants’ molecular structure. Next, it examines the interactions between surfactants and the aqueous phase, focusing on headgroup solvation and counterion condensation. Finally, it analyzes the influence of hydrophobic phase molecular composition on interactions between surfactants and the hydrophobic phase. This review deepened our understanding of the micro-level mechanisms of oil displacement by surfactants and is beneficial for screening and designing surfactants for oil field applications.
Antiviral and Cytotoxic Activities of Ilex aquifolium Silver Queen in the Context of Chemical Profiling of Two Ilex Species
Authors: Pachura Natalia , Włodarczyk Maciej , Bażanów Barbara , Pogorzelska Aleksandra , Gębarowski Tomasz , Kupczyński Robert , Szumny Antoni
Published: July 2024

The leaves of Ilex paraguariensis (known as Yerba mate), used as a popular beverage, are a very well-recognized plant material with various biological activities, including analeptic (because of caffeine), anti-obesity (phenolics, saponins), antimicrobial, and antiviral (phenolics, saponins). Here, the chemical compositions of the leaves of two European Ilex species (× meserveae and aquifolium) with three varieties each were investigated. The terpenoid, saponin, and polyphenolic fractions were submitted for LC-MS or GC-MS analysis against a standard Mate leaf. In addition, the aroma profiles of all the species were analysed using HS-SPME-Arrow prior to GC-MS analysis. All fractions were subjected to antiviral and cytotoxic assays. We found 86 compounds in all accessions, with limonene, linalool, and p-cymene being predominant. There were minor similarities between the volatile compositions of the European and South American species. We found ursolic and oleanolic acid to be the main compounds in the terpenoid fraction. Mono-caffeoylquinic acids and di-caffeoylquinic acids were the main constituents of the polar fractions. About 180 compounds from the saponin group were tentatively identified, of which 9 and 3 were selected as distinctive markers for I. meserveae and I. aquifolium, respectively. Based on chemical screening, I. aquifolium Silver Queen was chosen as the source of terpenoid and saponin fractions and polyphenol extracts. The most substantial inhibition of cancer cell growth was observed with saponin in the case of the MCF7 (human breast cancer) cell line, while for LoVo and L929 cell lines (human colorectal cancer and reference mouse fibroblasts), it was slightly weaker. These results should be analysed further as a promising chemoprevention of colorectal and gastrointestinal cancers. Saponin and polyphenolic extracts exhibited similar activities against HSV-1 and HAdV-5, with 4-log reduction in virus titres. This study focuses our attention on a field of potential antiviral formulations derived from European holly.
High-Throughput Mining of Novel Compounds from Known Microbes: A Boost to Natural Product Screening
Authors: Meena Surya , Wajs-Bonikowska Anna , Girawale Savita , Imran Md , Poduval Preethi , Kodam Kisan
Published: July 2024

Advanced techniques can accelerate the pace of natural product discovery from microbes, which has been lagging behind the drug discovery era. Therefore, the present review article discusses the various interdisciplinary and cutting-edge techniques to present a concrete strategy that enables the high-throughput screening of novel natural compounds (NCs) from known microbes. Recent bioinformatics methods revealed that the microbial genome contains a huge untapped reservoir of silent biosynthetic gene clusters (BGC). This article describes several methods to identify the microbial strains with hidden mines of silent BGCs. Moreover, antiSMASH 5.0 is a free, accurate, and highly reliable bioinformatics tool discussed in detail to identify silent BGCs in the microbial genome. Further, the latest microbial culture technique, HiTES (high-throughput elicitor screening), has been detailed for the expression of silent BGCs using 500–1000 different growth conditions at a time. Following the expression of silent BGCs, the latest mass spectrometry methods are highlighted to identify the NCs. The recently emerged LAESI-IMS (laser ablation electrospray ionization-imaging mass spectrometry) technique, which enables the rapid identification of novel NCs directly from microtiter plates, is presented in detail. Finally, various trending ‘dereplication’ strategies are emphasized to increase the effectiveness of NC screening.
Preparation of Thermochromic Vanadium Dioxide Films Assisted by Machine Learning
Authors: Xiong Gaoyang , Ji Haining , Chen Yongxing , Liu Bin , Wang Yi , Long Peng , Zeng Jinfang , Tao Jundong , Deng Cong
Published: July 2024

In recent years, smart windows have attracted widespread attention due to their ability to respond to external stimuli such as light, heat, and electricity, thereby intelligently adjusting the ultraviolet, visible, and near-infrared light in solar radiation. VO2(M) undergoes a reversible phase transition from an insulating phase (monoclinic, M) to a metallic phase (rutile, R) at a critical temperature of 68 °C, resulting in a significant difference in near-infrared transmittance, which is particularly suitable for use in energy-saving smart windows. However, due to the multiple valence states of vanadium ions and the multiphase characteristics of VO2, there are still challenges in preparing pure-phase VO2(M). Machine learning (ML) can learn and generate models capable of predicting unknown data from vast datasets, thereby avoiding the wastage of experimental resources and reducing time costs associated with material preparation optimization. Hence, in this paper, four ML algorithms, namely multi-layer perceptron (MLP), random forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM), and extreme gradient boosting (XGB), were employed to explore the parameters for the successful preparation of VO2(M) films via magnetron sputtering. A comprehensive performance evaluation was conducted on these four models. The results indicated that XGB was the top-performing model, achieving a prediction accuracy of up to 88.52%. A feature importance analysis using the SHAP method revealed that substrate temperature had an essential impact on the preparation of VO2(M). Furthermore, characteristic parameters such as sputtering power, substrate temperature, and substrate type were optimized to obtain pure-phase VO2(M) films. Finally, it was experimentally verified that VO2(M) films can be successfully prepared using optimized parameters. These findings suggest that ML-assisted material preparation is highly feasible, substantially reducing resource wastage resulting from experimental trial and error, thereby promoting research on material preparation optimization.
Flexible CNT-Interpenetrating Hierarchically Porous Sulfurized Polyacrylonitrile (CIHP-SPAN) Electrodes for High-Rate Lithium-Sulfur (Li-S) Batteries
Authors: Shao Jiashuo , Huang Cheng , Zhu Qi , Sun Nan , Zhang Junning , Wang Rihui , Chen Yunxiang , Zhang Zongtao
Published: July 2024

Sulfurized polyacrylonitrile (SPAN) is a promising cathode material for lithium-sulfur batteries owing to its reversible solid–solid conversion for high-energy-density batteries. However, the sluggish reaction kinetics of SPAN cathodes significantly limit their output capacity, especially at high cycling rates. Herein, a CNT-interpenetrating hierarchically porous SPAN electrode is developed by a simple phase-separation method. Flexible self-supporting SPAN cathodes with fast electron/ion pathways are synthesized without additional binders, and exceptional high-rate cycling performances are obtained even with substantial sulfur loading. For batteries assembled with this special cathode, an impressive initial discharge capacity of 1090 mAh g−1 and a retained capacity of 800 mAh g−1 are obtained after 1000 cycles at 1 C with a sulfur loading of 1.5 mg cm−2. Furthermore, by incorporating V2O5 anchored carbon fiber as an interlayer with adsorption and catalysis function, a high initial capacity of 614.8 mAh g−1 and a notable sustained capacity of 500 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles at 5 C are achieved, with an ultralow decay rate of 0.037% per cycle with a sulfur loading of 1.5 mg cm−2. The feasible construction of flexible SPAN electrodes with enhanced cycling performance enlists the current processing as a promising strategy for novel high-rate lithium-sulfur batteries and other emerging battery electrodes.
Influence of Long Milling Time on the Electrical Resistivity of Nanocrystalline Ni2MnSn Heusler Alloy Obtained by Mechanosynthesis
Authors: Popa Florin , Marinca Traian Florin , Sechel Niculina Argentina , Frunzӑ Dan Ioan , Chicinaș Ionel
Published: July 2024

A Ni2MnSn Heusler alloy was obtained as a single B2 phase after 12 h of mechanical milling. The influence of prolonged milling on the phase stability was analysed for milling times up to 50 h, related to mean crystallite size, lattice strain, and electrical resistivity. The nature of the powders in the milled range was found to be nanocrystalline, with a mean crystallite size of about 33 ± 2 nm. An evaluation of the internal stresses induced by milling was performed, a linear behaviour was found, and a coefficient of the internal stress increase with milling time was proposed. Particle size distributions of milled samples were analysed, and the morphology of the powders was visualised by scanning electron microscopy. The elemental distribution of milled samples was quantified by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Electrical resistivity measurements were performed on compacted samples, and their behaviour with milling time was analysed.
Optimization of Thermoelectric Nanoantenna for Massive High-Output-Voltage Arrays
Authors: Anam Mohamad Khoirul , Yudhistira Yudhistira , Choi Sangjo
Published: July 2024

Thermoelectric nanoantennas have been extensively investigated due to their ability to directly convert infrared (IR) radiation into direct current without an additional rectification device. In this study, we introduce a thermoelectric nanoantenna geometry for maximum output voltage (Voc) and propose an optimal series array configuration with a finite number of antennas to enhance the Voc. A finite and open-ended SiO2 substrate, with a thickness of a quarter-effective wavelength at a frequency of 28.3 THz, is used to generate standing waves within the substrate. An array of antennas is then positioned optimally on the substrate to maximize the temperature difference (∆T) between hot and cold areas, thereby increasing the average Voc per antenna element. In numerical simulations, a linearly polarized incident wave with a power density of 1.42 W/cm2 is applied to the structure. The results show that a single antenna with the optimum geometry on a substrate measuring 35 µm × 35 µm generates a ∆T of 64.89 mK, corresponding to a Voc of 1.75 µV. Finally, a series array of 5 × 6 thermoelectric nanoantennas on a 150 µm × 75 µm substrate including measurement pads achieves an average ∆T of 49.60 mK with a total Voc of 40.18 µV, resulting in an average Voc of 1.34 µV per antenna element and a voltage responsivity (βv) of 0.77 V/W. This value, achieved solely by optimizing the antenna geometry and open-ended substrate, matches or exceeds the Voc and βv of approximately 1 µV and 0.66 V/W, respectively, from suspended thermoelectric antenna arrays over air cavities. Therefore, the proposed thermoelectric nanoantenna array device, characterized by high stability and ease of fabrication, is suitable for manufacturing massive nanoantenna arrays for high-output IR-DC energy harvesters.
Catalytic Ozonation of Pharmaceuticals Using CeO2-CeTiOx-Doped Crossflow Ultrafiltration Ceramic Membranes
Authors: Tsiarta Nikoletta , Morović Silvia , Mandić Vilko , Panžić Ivana , Blažic Roko , Ćurković Lidija , Gernjak Wolfgang
Published: July 2024

The removal of persistent organic micropollutants (OMPs) from secondary effluent in wastewater treatment plants is critical for meeting water reuse standards. Traditional treatment methods often fail to adequately degrade these contaminants. This study explored the efficacy of a hybrid ozonation membrane filtration (HOMF) process using CeO2 and CeTiOx-doped ceramic crossflow ultrafiltration ceramic membranes for the degradation of OMPs. Hollow ceramic membranes (CM) with a 300 kDa molecular weight cut-off (MWCO) were modified to serve as substrates for catalytic nanosized metal oxides in a crossflow and inside-out operational configuration. Three types of depositions were tested: a single layer of CeO2, a single layer of CeTiOx, and a combined layer of CeO2 + CeTiOx. These catalytic nanoparticles were distributed uniformly using a solution-based method supported by vacuum infiltration to ensure high-throughput deposition. The results demonstrated successful infiltration of the metal oxides, although the yield permeability and transmembrane flow varied, following this order: pristine > CeTiOx > CeO2 > CeO2 + CeTiOx. Four OMPs were examined: two easily degraded by ozone (carbamazepine and diclofenac) and two recalcitrant (ibuprofen and pCBA). The highest OMP degradation was observed in demineralized water, particularly with the CeO2 + CeTiOx modification, suggesting O3 decomposition to hydroxyl radicals. The increased resistance in the modified membranes contributed to the adsorption phenomena. The degradation efficiency decreased in secondary effluent due to competition with the organic and inorganic load, highlighting the challenges in complex water matrices.
Nano-Bioremediation of Arsenic and Its Effect on the Biological Activity and Growth of Maize Plants Grown in Highly Arsenic-Contaminated Soil
Authors: El Sharkawy Mahmoud , AL-Huqail Arwa A. , Aljuaid Alya M. , Kamal Nourhan , Mahmoud Esawy , Omara Alaa El-Dein , El-Kader Nasser Abd , Li Jian , Mahmoud Nashaat N. , El Baroudy Ahmed A. , Ghoneim Adel M. , Ismail Sahar Mohamed
Published: July 2024

Arsenic (As)-contaminated soil reduces soil quality and leads to soil degradation, and traditional remediation strategies are expensive or typically produce hazardous by-products that have negative impacts on ecosystems. Therefore, this investigation attempts to assess the impact of As-tolerant bacterial isolates via a bacterial Rhizobim nepotum strain (B1), a bacterial Glutamicibacter halophytocola strain (B2), and MgO-NPs (N) and their combinations on the arsenic content, biological activity, and growth characteristics of maize plants cultivated in highly As-contaminated soil (300 mg As Kg−1). The results indicated that the spectroscopic characterization of MgO-NPs contained functional groups (e.g., Mg-O, OH, and Si-O-Si) and possessed a large surface area. Under As stress, its addition boosted the growth of plants, biomass, and chlorophyll levels while decreasing As uptake. Co-inoculation of R. nepotum and G. halophytocola had the highest significant values for chlorophyll content, soil organic matter (SOM), microbial biomass (MBC), dehydrogenase activity (DHA), and total number of bacteria compared to other treatments, which played an essential role in increasing maize growth. The addition of R. nepotum and G. halophytocola alone or in combination with MgO-NPs significantly decreased As uptake and increased the biological activity and growth characteristics of maize plants cultivated in highly arsenic-contaminated soil. Considering the results of this investigation, the combination of G. halophytocola with MgO-NPs can be used as a nanobioremediation strategy for remediating severely arsenic-contaminated soil and also improving the biological activity and growth parameters of maize plants.
High-Performance Ultraviolet Photodetectors Based on Nanoporous GaN with a Ga2O3 Single-Crystal Layer
Authors: Wen Junjie , Wang Yuankang , Zhang Biao , Chen Rongrong , Zhu Hongyan , Han Xinyu , Xiao Hongdi
Published: July 2024

The utilization of a nanoporous (NP) GaN fabricated by electrochemical etching has been demonstrated to be effective in the fabrication of a high-performance ultraviolet (UV) photodetector (PD). However, the NP-GaN PD typically exhibits a low light-dark current ratio and slow light response speed. In this study, we present three types of UV PDs based on an unetched GaN, NP-GaN distributed Bragg reflector (DBR), and NP-GaN-DBR with a Ga2O3 single-crystal film (Ga2O3/NP-GaN-DBR). The unetched GaN PD does not exhibit a significant photoresponse. Compared to the NP-GaN-DBR PD device, the Ga2O3/NP-GaN-DBR PD demonstrates a larger light-dark current ratio (6.14 × 103) and higher specific detectivity (8.9 × 1010 Jones) under 365 nm at 5 V bias due to its lower dark current (3.0 × 10−10 A). This reduction in the dark current can be attributed to the insertion of the insulating Ga2O3 between the metal and the NP-GaN-DBR, which provides a thicker barrier thickness and higher barrier height. Additionally, the Ga2O3/NP-GaN-DBR PD device exhibits shorter rise/decay times (0.33/0.23 s) than the NP-GaN-DBR PD, indicating that the growth of a Ga2O3 layer on the DBR effectively reduces the trap density within the NP-GaN DBR structure. Although the device with a Ga2O3 layer presents low photoresponsivity (0.1 A/W), it should be feasible to use Ga2O3 as a dielectric layer based on the above-mentioned reasons.
Personal Time and Transmigration Time Travel
Authors: Maslen Cei
Published: July 2024

Lewis argued that although paradoxes such as the famous Grandfather Paradox can be solved, only a limited set of time travel fiction is consistent. In this paper, I discuss how to extend a Lewisian approach to a class of time travel fiction not considered by Lewis: transmigration or mental time travel fiction. To this end, Lewis’s definition of personal time needs refining, and this is the primary focus of my paper. I discuss some alternative refinements of Lewis’s definition: a Solely Mental definition and a Causal definition. I end by also applying these definitions to cases of reverse aging.
Comparative Anatomical Analysis of Bark Structure in 10 Quercus Species
Authors: Li Changzhao , Yang Xiaorui , Chen Songyang , Huang Yuxi , Yang Yushan , Qiu Jian
Published: July 2024

Detailed anatomical features of bark are used and interpreted in plant taxonomy, phylogenetics, and other areas of plant science. However, the delicate nature of bark cells, combined with the difficulty of obtaining high-quality sections and reliable data, limits the potential for utilizing and processing bark. In this study, the anatomical structure of the bark of 10 Quercus species growing in Yunnan Province, China, was characterized in detail. The results indicate that the anatomical features of the barks of 10 Quercus spp. show a certain degree of consistency. Specifically, sieve tubes are distributed in solitary elements or in small groups, mostly as compound sieve plates containing 2–8 sieve areas, suggesting that Quercus spp. may occupy a conservative evolutionary position. Additionally, for the first time, this study reports the presence of simple sieve plates in the sieve tube elements of Quercus phloem. Each sieve tube element has a companion cell on one side. The companion cell strands contain 2–7 cells. Axial parenchyma is diffuse, with parenchyma strands typically consisting of 4–7 cells; druses are present within chambered crystalliferous cells. Phloem rays are of two distinct sizes and often exhibit dilatation and sclerification, and the ray composition consists of procumbent cells. Sclerenchyma is composed of fibers and sclereids, both of which contain prismatic crystals. Most of the fibers are gelatinous fibers, which are distributed in discontinuous tangential bands of about five cells in width. Sclereids appear in clusters. The presence of sclerenchyma provides mechanical support to the bark, reducing the collapse of the phloem. Periderm usually consists of around 10–30 layers of phellem, and Quercus acutissima and Q. variabilis can reach dozens or hundreds layers. The phelloderm typically consists of from two to five layers, with Q. variabilis having up to ten or more layers. The filling tissue of lenticels in all Quercus species is nonstratified (homogeneous) and largely nonsuberized. Overall, this study enriches our comprehension of Quercus bark anatomy, elucidating evolutionary patterns, functional adaptations, and ecological ramifications within this significant botanical genus.
Identification of Transcription Factors of Santalene Synthase Gene Promoters and SaSSY Cis-Elements through Yeast One-Hybrid Screening in Santalum album L.
Authors: Zhou Yunqing , Li Xiang , Wang Dongli , Yu Zequn , Liu Yunshan , Hu Lipan , Bian Zhan
Published: July 2024

The main components of sandalwood heartwood essential oil are terpenoids, approximately 80% of which are α-santalol and β-santalol. In the synthesis of the main secondary metabolites of sandalwood heartwood, the key gene, santalene synthase (SaSSY), can produce α-santalene and β-santalene by catalyzed (E, E)-FPP. Furthermore, santalene is catalyzed by the cytochrome monooxygenase SaCYP736A167 to form sandalwood essential oil, which then produces a fragrance. However, the upstream regulatory mechanism of the key gene santalene synthase remains unclear. In this study, SaSSY (Sal3G10690) promoter transcription factors and SaSSY cis-elements were screened. The results showed that the titer of the sandalwood cDNA library was 1.75 × 107 CFU/mL, 80% of the inserted fragments identified by PCR were over 750 bp in length, and the positivity rate of the library was greater than 90%. The promoter region of the SaSSY gene was shown to have the structural basis for potential regulatory factor binding. After sequencing and bioinformatics analysis, we successfully obtained 51 positive clones and identified four potential SaSSY transcriptional regulators. Sal6G03620 was annotated as the transcription factor MYB36-like, and Sal8G07920 was annotated as the small heat shock protein HSP20 in sandalwood. Sal1G00910 was annotated as a hypothetical protein of sandalwood. Sal4G10880 was annotated as a homeobox-leucine zipper protein (ATHB-15) in sandalwood. In this study, a cDNA library of sandalwood was successfully constructed using a yeast one-hybrid technique, and the transcription factors that might interact with SaSSY gene promoters were screened. This study provides a foundation for exploring the molecular regulatory mechanism involved in the formation of sandalwood heartwood.
Electrospun Ibuprofen-Loaded Blend PCL/PEO Fibers for Topical Drug Delivery Applications
Authors: Bani Mustafa Diala , Sakai Tsuyoshi , Sato Osamu , Ikebe Mitsuo , Chou Shih-Feng
Published: July 2024

Electrospun drug-eluting fibers have demonstrated potentials in topical drug delivery applications, where drug releases can be modulated by polymer fiber compositions. In this study, blend fibers of polycaprolactone (PCL) and polyethylene oxide (PEO) at various compositions were electrospun from 10 wt% of polymer solutions to encapsulate a model drug of ibuprofen (IBP). The results showed that the average polymer solution viscosities determined the electrospinning parameters and the resulting average fiber diameters. Increasing PEO contents in the blend PCL/PEO fibers decreased the average elastic moduli, the average tensile strength, and the average fracture strains, where IBP exhibited a plasticizing effect in the blend PCL/PEO fibers. Increasing PEO contents in the blend PCL/PEO fibers promoted the surface wettability of the fibers. The in vitro release of IBP suggested a transition from a gradual release to a fast release when increasing PEO contents in the blend PCL/PEO fibers up to 120 min. The in vitro viability of blend PCL/PEO fibers using MTT assays showed that the fibers were compatible with MEF-3T3 fibroblasts. In conclusion, our results explained the scientific correlations between the solution properties and the physicomechanical properties of electrospun fibers. These blend PCL/PEO fibers, having the ability to modulate IBP release, are suitable for topical drug delivery applications.
Situated Religious Cognition in Jamesian Pragmatist Philosophy of Religion
Authors: Pihlström Sami
Published: July 2024

Pragmatist philosophy of religion has, since the early days of the tradition, developed distinctive accounts of (what we now call) “situated” religious cognition highly relevant to currently ongoing discussions in this developing field. This paper focuses on William James’s pragmatism as an important example of such an approach in the philosophy of religion. Some central “situational” themes in James are identified, and special attention is given to the relation between the (situation-dependent) concepts of belief and hope in Jamesian pragmatism. The ontological status of the “objects” of situated religious cognition is thereby also briefly discussed.
Quantifying Forest Cover Loss during the COVID-19 Pandemic in the Lubumbashi Charcoal Production Basin (DR Congo) through Remote Sensing and Landscape Analysis
Authors: Useni Sikuzani Yannick , Mpanda Mukenza Médard , Mwenya Ildephonse Kipili , Muteya Héritier Khoji , Nghonda Dieu-donné N’tambwe , Mukendi Nathan Kasanda , Malaisse François , Kaj Françoise Malonga , Mwembu Donatien Dibwe Dia , Bogaert Jan
Published: July 2024

In the context of the Lubumbashi Charcoal Production Basin (LCPB), the socio-economic repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic have exacerbated pressures on populations dependent on forest resources for their subsistence. This study employs a comprehensive methodological approach, integrating advanced remote sensing techniques, including image classification, mapping, and detailed landscape analysis, to quantify alterations in forest cover within the LCPB during the pandemic period. Our findings reveal a consistent trend of declining forested area, characterized by processes of attrition and dissection observed throughout various study phases, spanning from May 2019 to November 2023. This reduction in forest cover, notably more pronounced in the vicinity of Lubumbashi city and the northern zone of the LCPB, proved to be less pronounced between November 2019 and September 2020, underscoring the influence of COVID-19 pandemic-induced confinement measures on forest management practices in the region. However, subsequent to this period of restriction, deforestation activity intensified, leading to significant landscape transformations within the LCPB, primarily attributable to expanded human activities, consequently resulting in a notable decrease in the proportion of land occupied by these natural ecosystems. Consequently, the size of the largest forest patch declined substantially, decreasing from 14.62% to 8.20% between May 2019 and November 2023, thereby fostering a heightened density of forest edges over time. Our findings provide a significant contribution to understanding the complex interactions between the COVID-19 pandemic and deforestation phenomena, emphasizing the urgent need to adopt adaptive management strategies and appropriate conservation measures in response to current economic challenges.
Elements of Historical Personal Identity Construction of Finnish-Speaking Students
Authors: Taivalantti Tanja , Norppa Johanna , Löfström Jan
Published: July 2024

In this paper, the constructions of historical personal identity of Finnish-speaking students are analysed. The students participated in a larger study of historical narratives and identities, carried out in 2020 in two schools in Finland and in one European School outside Finland. In the mixed-method study, sixty-one students were interviewed and given writing and drawing assignments on historical identity. In this paper, the students’ visual representations of their personal historical identity and its relationship with wider official history are analysed. The aim is to increase understanding of how 14–16-year-old students visualise and articulate their historical personal identity constructions and the historical elements they use in negotiating this identity. The findings suggest that the students integrate personal and historical social narratives in diverse ways but that the majority of them find it challenging to connect their personal family history with the wider official history. Only twelve students made the connection. In addition to presenting the results for the whole group of students, the visual representations of two selected students are discussed in more detail so as to highlight the difference in the approaches to historical personal identity construction among the students.
Transitioning from Communicative Competence to Multimodal and Intercultural Competencies: A Systematic Review
Authors: Mootoosamy Khomeshwaree , Aryadoust Vahid
Published: July 2024

The formulation of the construct of communicative competence (CC) was the consequence of the perceived “inappropriateness” of the theory of linguistic competence and performance. To obtain a comprehensive understanding of second language (L2) CC, a systematic review of 85 studies was conducted to assess how empirical studies have defined and operationalized the construct in the context of L2 learning and assessment. Four main themes emerged from the papers: (1) beliefs and perceptions about CC, (2) expansion of CC, (3) mixed specifications of CC, and (4) tests and measures of CC and communicative language ability (CLA). The analysis of these themes foregrounded several significant findings. First, the construct of L2 CC was significantly more prevalent in the body of research compared to L2 CLA. Second, CC has been perceived as a multifarious construct that has been researched from varied perspectives. It was found that older studies were more consistent with traditional approaches to defining CC and CLA, while the construct shifted focus to technology and self-appraisals in more recent studies. Third, there is no consensus amongst the reviewed studies about tests and methods of operationalization of CC, suggesting that the evidence provided is sample-specific and non-replicable. Importantly, it was found that over the years, CC has undergone a gradual evolution. With the multimodal and intercultural turn, CC has branched into new concepts namely intercultural and multimodal communicative competencies. Pertaining to these concepts, new notions such as telecollaboration, digital literacies, and multiliteracies have emerged. CC has also been, for long, analogous to performance, proficiency, social rules of language use, rules of appropriateness, willingness to communicate, self-perceptions of CC, and the goal of being a native speaker, which can add to the confusion surrounding the construct. The implications of the present research synthesis are two-fold. It becomes imperative to adapt world language classrooms to the rising trend in intercultural and multimodal communicative competencies. In addition, further replicable investigations should focus on developing optimal methods of operationalization that are in line with the new contemporary theoretical frameworks of language in the age of digital technologies and artificial intelligence.
Sociodemographic Attributes and Dropout Intentions of Working University Students: Evidence from Estonia
Authors: Toyon Mohammad Abu Sayed
Published: July 2024

This study examines the relationship between various demographic and situational factors and working students’ decisions to change their study programmes and abandon higher education. It utilises a sample of 1902 working students derived from the Eurostudent VII survey and employs cross-tabulation and chi-square tests. The findings reveal statistically significant associations between several factors and students’ educational decisions. Males are more likely to consider abandoning higher education than females. Younger students, particularly those up to 21 years old, are more inclined to consider changing their study programmes. Financial difficulties significantly influence students’ considerations of both changing study programmes and abandoning higher education. Students in the arts, humanities, and ICT are more likely to consider abandoning their studies. Conversely, age does not significantly affect the likelihood of abandoning higher education. Parental educational attainment does not significantly influence decisions to change or abandon study programmes, whereas living situations, such as living independently and not living with parents, significantly affect changing the study programme. Qualification level affects the likelihood of changing study programmes, with bachelor’s students more likely to consider changes than masters and long-term national degree students, but it does not significantly affect the likelihood of abandoning higher education. Education–job mismatch significantly affects both changing study programmes and abandoning higher education, while the duration of working hours only influences the decision to alter study programmes. By revealing these findings, this research extends the student retention discourse as well as highlights how cultural, economic, familial, and workplace capital influence working students’ educational decisions.
Beyond the Finish Line: Sustainability Hurdles in the EU–Mercosur Free Trade Agreement
Authors: Palmieri Rossella , Amice Charlotte , Amato Mario , Verneau Fabio
Published: July 2024

The European Union (EU) and the Southern Common Market (Mercosur) free trade agreement (FTA) aims to increase regional trade and major integration between the regions; after decades of negotiations, in 2019, finalization of the agreement was reached. However, there are several blockages from both parties in the ratification process: whilst few EU members the criticize environmental and sustainability issues within the agreement, the Mercosur partners oppose the imposition of sustainability standards onto the region without adequate financial support. On this topic, the literature is still too poor to build a systematic literature review; thus, the present analysis follows a quasi-historical approach considering the major steps of the EU–Mercosur FTA looking both at the scientific and gray literature. The study underlines how environmental and sustainability issues are at the core of the European policies; thus, themes such as deforestation and pesticides could be a dealbreaker in the ratification of the agreement. For the EU, the FTA with Mercosur could mark a new step in the race towards it being a new “global standard” for sustainability and production.
Household Energy Clean Transition Mechanisms under Market Failures: A Government Financing Perspective
Authors: Zhu Weiqiang , Zhang Yun
Published: July 2024

Clarifying the principles governing the transition to cleaner household energy is crucial for enhancing households’ access to clean and efficient energy, thereby enhancing households’ welfare and overall societal well-being. However, most existing energy transition theories are grounded in assumptions of perfect market functionality. This paradigm deviates from the reality of market failure and needs to comprehensively elucidate the process of transitioning to cleaner household energy. This study develops a framework for understanding the transition to cleaner household energy within the context of market failure. It investigates the effects and mechanisms of government funding and energy endowment on this transition, considering the accessibility and affordability of clean energy. The analysis is based on 20 years of data on rural energy consumption across 29 provinces in China. The findings reveal that government funding inputs significantly enhance the transition to cleaner household energy, facilitated by the clean energy supply effect, clean technology promotion effect, clean knowledge dissemination effect, and financial constraint alleviation effect. Heterogeneity analysis indicates that in regions abundant in renewable energy, government funding inputs can effectively stimulate the development and utilization of renewable energy sources, thereby enhancing the accessibility of clean energy and driving the transition to cleaner household energy. Finally, it is recommended that the market play a constructive role in the energy transition process in addition to increased government investment in energy infrastructure, extension services, and public education.