Incorporation Of Elements Research Articles

Theoretical study on the effect of element segregation on the dissolution and diffusion of hydrogen at the Ni/Ni3Al interface

In this work, employing first-principles calculations, tetrahedral, octahedral, and pyramid-shaped H trap models are constructed to investigate the behavior of hydrogen (H) at the Ni/Ni3Al interfaces with Cr, Mo, and W segregation. Our study reveals that H is prone to adsorb near the Ni3Al phase, forming octahedral H trap structures. Cr segregation H trap is more suitable at the interface, due to the smaller atomic charge of Cr among the three elements, resulting in the lowest dissolution energy required for H dissolution. All the segregation elements exhibit inhibitory effects on H aggregation and segregation, with Mo showing the most pronounced effect due to its highest diffusion barrier. The solubility, diffusion coefficient, and permeability of H at the element segregation interfaces are found to be positively correlated with temperature. Furthermore, the incorporation of segregation elements in the interface trap structure demonstrates a significant enhancement in fracture toughness, while simultaneously mitigating the adverse effects of H on the interface fracture strength. The yield strength and tensile strength exceed those of the original interface. These findings offer theoretical guidance for the design of Ni-based high-temperature alloys with superior performance in the future.

Negative capacitors and inductors enabling wideband waveguide metatronics

Waveguide metatronics, known as an advanced platform of metamaterial-inspired circuits, provides a promising paradigm for millimeter-wave and terahertz integrated circuits in future fifth/sixth generation (5/6G) communication systems. By exploiting the structural dispersion properties of waveguides, a lumped type of waveguide integrated elements and circuits could be developed in deep subwavelength scales with intrinsic low loss and low crosstalk. In this study, we focus on constructing negative capacitors and inductors for waveguide metatronics, effectively expanding the operating frequency range of waveguide integrated circuits. The incorporation of negative elements enables wideband impedance matching in waveguide, which have been both theoretically explored and experimentally validated within the waveguide metatronics paradigm. Furthermore, we have demonstrated that the negative elements can also be realized in the optical domain through the utilization of a silicon waveguide with photonic crystal cladding, indicating the feasibility and universality of wideband waveguide metatronics. The negative lumped elements could boost the progress of the waveguide metatronic technique, achieving superior performance on the conventional lumped circuits within waveguides that solely rely on positive elements.

Multi Factor Authentication and IP Address Restriction based Question Paper Delivery System for Indian Universities

The traditional question paper delivery (QPD) procedure in Indian institutions is discussed in this paper with a focus on its downsides, including complexity, time requirements, security issues, environmental impact, and cost. This method is manual, which makes it prone to mistakes, rigid, and open to leaks and tampering, especially when it comes to the security of the exam questions. It also looks at security issues involving question paper leaks, highlighting ongoing difficulties in preserving the integrity and confidentiality of the Indian educational system. These occurrences highlight the requirement for a more reliable and secure QPD system. 
 In this paper workflow of the cloud-based software system is described in detail, with examples showing how it makes it easier to distribute safe exam papers and assures stakeholder accountability. Barcodes are integrated into the system, and their improved tracking, processing, and distribution of exam papers is highlighted. A cutting-edge cloud-based Question Paper Delivery System (OQPDS), which automates and streamlines the process of generating, distributing, and giving exams for Indian colleges, is the suggested cure. Modern security elements are used by the system, including two-step authentication, barcode-based data storage, data encryption during data transfer, IP address-based access restrictions, and time-based content delivery. The incorporation of these security elements enhances the overall security and efficiency of the QPD system. The proposed system's workflow is discussed in detail along with examples that demonstrate how it facilitates the distribution of secure exam papers and ensures stakeholder responsibility. The system incorporates barcodes, and its better distribution, processing, and tracking of exam papers is praised. The system's capacity to limit access based on IP addresses is described, along with how it might help with traceability and prevent unwanted access. Additionally, the paper proposes watermarking to label test papers with the IP address of the testing facility, offering benefits including improved security, tamper detection, and traceability. It is highlighted that encryption is a key security tool for preserving data integrity, maintaining secrecy, and protecting against online dangers. Finally, the cloud-based Question Paper Delivery System is a solution to the security issues and inefficiencies of the current QPD system. This system intends to transform the examination procedure in Indian institutions by offering a more safe, effective, and transparent approach to question paper administration. It does this through contemporary security provisions and cutting-edge technology. This paper also discusses comparative analysis between traditional and proposed automated Question paper delivery system with respect to efficiency, security, cost reduction and flexibility.

Anion elements incorporation into corals skeletons: Experimental approach for biomineralization and paleo-proxies.

The elemental composition of coral skeletons provides important information for palaeoceanographic reconstructions and coral biomineralization. Partition of anions and their stable isotopes in coral skeleton enables the reconstruction of past seawater carbonate chemistry, paleo-CO2, and past climates. Here, we investigated the partition of B, S, As, Br, I, and Mo into the skeletons of two corals, Acropora cervicornis and Pocillopora damicornis, as a function of calcium and carbonate concentrations.* Anion-to-calcium ratio in the corals (An/CaCoral) were correlated with the equivalent ratios in the culturing seawater (An/CO32-SW). Negative intercepts of these relationships suggest a higher CO32- concentration in the coral extracellular calcifying fluid (ECF) relative to seawater, from which the skeleton precipitates. The enrichment factor of CO32- at the ECF was 2.5 for A. cervicornis and 1.9 for P. damicornis, consistent with their relative calcification rates. The CO32-ECF concentrations thus calculated are similar to those proposed by previous studies based on B/Ca coupled with δ11B, as well as by direct measurements using microsensors and fluorescent dyes. Rayleigh fractionation modeling demonstrates a uniform Ca utilization at various CaSW concentrations, providing further evidence that coral calcification occurs directly from a semiclosed seawater reservoir as reported previously. The partition coefficients reported in this study for B, S, As, Br, I, and Mo open up wide possibilities for past ocean chemistry reconstructions based on Br having long residence time (~160 Ma) in the ocean. Other elements like S, Mo, B, as well as pCO2 may also be calculated based on these elements in fossil coral.

Effect of Mn Doped on Structural, Optical, and Dielectric Properties of BiFe1-xMnxO3 for Efficient Antioxidant Activity.

Manganese-doped bismuth ferrites were synthesized using the coprecipitation method with the green extract Azadirachta indica. Our incorporation of the transition element, manganese, into bismuth ferrites tackles the challenge of increased leakage current often observed in intrinsic bismuth ferrites. We gained key insights through a comprehensive examination of the structural, dielectric, and optical properties of these materials, utilizing Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), impedance spectroscopy, and UV-visible spectroscopy, respectively. The formation of an octahedral geometry was confirmed using the FTIR technique. UV-visible spectroscopy indicated that 2% Mn doping is optimal, while we obtained a low band gap energy (2.21 eV) and high refractive index (3.010) at this amount of doping. The manufactured materials exhibited the typical ferrite-like dielectric response, that is, the dielectric parameter gradually decreased as the frequency increased and then stayed constant in the high-frequency range. Using the diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical assay, we also examined the antioxidant activity of bismuth ferrites. We concluded that among different Mn-doped BiFeMnO3-based nanomaterials, the 2 wt % Mn-doped BiFeMnO3 shows the highest antioxidant activity. This finding substantiates the efficacy of the optimized material with regard to its potent antioxidant activity, positioning it as a promising candidate for potential biomedical applications.

“THE DAY OF WRATH” BY YURII KOSACH: MODERNIZATION OF THE HISTORICAL NOVEL

The novel “The Day of Wrath” by Yurii Kosach is a modernist literary experiment, which reflected genre and stylistic searches of the late 1940s and the features of the individual creative and ideological evolution of the writer. The novel by Kosach attempts to question Polish and Russian imperial views on the events and the era of the Ukrainian Cossack Revolution, as well as to discard established social and religious concepts in favor of a national-cultural one.
 The novelty of Kosach’s literary technique in the novel lies, in particular, in the method of kaleidoscopic arrangement of material chosen by the author, the specific alternation of images and situations, the incorporation of cinematographic elements, and the utilization of the ‘stream of consciousness’ technique. There are elements of baroque, romantic, and expressionist poetics in the structure of Kosach’s novel, and it’s the syncretism of these stylistic trends that underlies the uniqueness of Kosach’s author’s style. His works are marked with ornamentality, complicated associativity, the motif of duality, and the special function of the metaphor. These features bring Kosach’s writings closer to baroque poetics. Kosach’s “Day of Wrath” is also connected with the tradition of the romantic historical novel through the use of typical romantic images, schemes, and situations, which the author attempts to modernize. The expressionistic stylistic tendencies are evident in “The Day of Wrath” at the linguistic level, characterized by fragmentary writing, elliptical sentences, and a deliberate violation of syntax. These tendencies also manifest themselves in the means and techniques used for image and form creation. The paper highlights the characteristics of Kosach’s ideological and literary interpretation of Bohdan Khmelnytskyi’s image. The hetman is portrayed as a historical figure, a "baroque man," and a statesman-demiurge. Yurii Kosach created a sample of the historical novel, resonating with his time and his own historical and literary views. In order to fulfil this task, he updated its content and form, making some changes in genre and narrative canons.

Progress, Evolving Paradigms and Recent Trends in Economic Analysis

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 12pt; line-height: 14pt; text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">This paper provides a thorough review of the shifting landscape of economic analysis, spotlighting recent trends and predicting future paths. While traditional economic models remain key for interpreting economic activity, they are being supplemented by fresh methods and cross-disciplinary viewpoints. The increased attention to inequality studies, using advanced statistical techniques and unique data sources, underscores the growing emphasis on fairness and distribution within economic analysis. The incorporation of behavioral elements into economic models also expands our comprehension of economic decision-making and market results. Notably, the emergence of computational economics-integrating artificial intelligence (AI), big data, and machine learning into economic scrutiny-represents a major development. Often referred to as ’smart economics,’ this field employs technology to formulate, address complex economic dilemmas, and perceive economic activity in unconventional ways. Yet, the application of AI and machine learning in economics introduces new hurdles around data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the transparency of model outcomes. The impact of the digital revolution on economic analysis is significant, as the advent of computational economics and the surge of big data are transforming research techniques and policy implications. Concurrently, the advent of the circular economy indicates a radical shift in our perspective on economic sustainability, carrying considerable implications for environmental policy and business tactics.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">  </span>In the future, it’s anticipated that these trends will further modify the realm of economic analysis, with AI and machine learning integration, emphasis on sustainability and fairness, and the influence of big data becoming more pronounced. As these changes take place, it’s imperative for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to remain adaptable and flexible, prepared to capitalize on the opportunities and tackle the challenges these trends present.</span></p>

Theoretical Insight into the Effect of Phosphorus Oxygenation on Nonradiative Decays: Comparative Analysis of P-Bridged Stilbene Analogs.

Incorporation of the phosphorus element into a π-conjugated skeleton offers valuable prospects for adjusting the electronic structure of the resulting functional π-electron systems. Trivalent phosphorus has the potential to decrease the LUMO level through σ*-π* interaction, which is further enhanced by its oxygenation to the pentavalent P center. This study shows that utilizing our computational analysis to examine excited-state dynamics based on radiative/nonradiative rate constants and fluorescence quantum yield (ΦF) is effective for analyzing the photophysical properties of P-containing organic dyes. We theoretically investigate how the trivalent phosphanyl group and pentavalent phosphine oxide moieties affect radiative and nonradiative decay processes. We evaluate four variations of P-bridged stilbene analogs. Our analysis reveals that the primary decay pathway for photoexcited bis-phosphanyl-bridged stilbene is the intersystem crossing (ISC) to the triplet state and nonradiative. The oxidation of the phosphine moiety, however, suppresses the ISC due to the relative destabilization of the triplet states. The calculated rate constants match an increase in experimental ΦF from 0.07 to 0.98, as simulated from 0.23 to 0.94. The reduced HOMO-LUMO gap supports a red shift in the fluorescence spectra relative to the phosphine analog. The thiophene-fused variant with the nonoxidized trivalent P center exhibits intense emission with a high ΦF, 0.95. Our prediction indicates that the ISC transfer is obstructed owing to the relatively destabilized triplet state induced by the thiophene substitution. Conversely, the thiophene-fused analog with the phosphine oxide moieties triggers a high-rate internal conversion mediated by conical intersection, leading to a decreased ΦF.

Connectivity elements and mitigation measures in policy-relevant soil erosion models: A survey across Europe

The current use of soil erosion models in Europe was investigated through an exploratory survey of 46 model applications covering 18 European countries. This revealed novel information on erosion model applications, their parameterisation, incorporation of landscape elements and mitigation measures with implications for connectivity and their use in decision-making in Europe. The model application predictions were applied at national, regional, catchment or field scale. The majority of model applications used the USLE or versions thereof, but a range of semi-empirical, decision-tree and process-based models were also used. The majority of model applications were used for policy relevant purposes such as erosion risk assessment or mitigation measure implementation at a range of spatial scales. The analysis identified an evident prevalence towards the use of national or regional data sets and a highly varying parameterisation of model applications. Landscape elements and mitigation measures with effects on connectivity were implemented in most model applications, but not with a focus on modelling connectivity within the landscape. Altogether, the results demonstrate a need for improving connectivity modelling in diverse agricultural landscapes across multiple scales. Models should be chosen dependent on their ability to reflect erosion risk at different spatial scales. Albeit, harmonisation of data sets, parameterisation procedures and validation approaches is needed for certain modelling scenarios to ensure comparability of soil erosion risk assessment and suitable mitigation practices. Furthermore, we recommend that policy-relevant erosion risk maps should be verified by empirical data and thresholds derived from erosion risk maps should be adapted to regional conditions when used for policy guidelines. Hence, comparability, comprehensibility and regional adaptation are essential qualities of policy-relevant erosion maps.

Excellent photocatalytic and antibacterial performance of silver and cobalt doped MnO nanoparticles

Metals (Ag, Fe, Co and Ag+Co)-doped MnO nanoparticles are synthesized by sol–gel method and are investigated for photocatalytic and antibacterial activities. The synthesized nanoparticles are characterized by x-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopic (SEM) techniques to determine the structural and morphological properties. The XRD results indicate the successful incorporation of the doped-metal elements into the lattice and changes in the crystallite sizes. The SEM micrographs indicate nano-porous and agglomerated grains after the doping and maximum nano-porosity is estimated for Co and Ag+Co doped nanoparticles. Methylene-blue (MB) dye is used to measure the photocatalytic activity which indicates the degradation of 94% for Ag+Co doped nanoparticles in only 30 min. The antibacterial activities of the nanoparticles are investigated against pathogenic bacteria by using the cultures of Bacillus, Escherichia Coli, Streptococcus and Cocci. The dose quantities are varied and compared with the standard Amikacin medicine that is commercially used for antifungal treatment. It is found that inhibition zones increase up to five times than the standard against Bacillus, Escherichia Coli and Cocci and doubles for Streptococcus at the dose level higher than 20 μl. These results indicate that Ag+Co doped MnO nanoparticles show the excellent photocatalytic performance and the best antibacterial results against the Bacillus bacteria.

Multistakeholder Perceptions of Additional Value Elements for United States Value Assessment of Health Interventions

ObjectivesLimitations in conventional cost-effectiveness methods have led to calls for incorporation of additional value elements in assessments of health technologies. However, gaps remain in how additional value elements may inform decision making. This study aimed to prioritize additional value elements from the perspective of healthy individuals without a specific condition or indicated for a specific treatment in the United States among a multistakeholder panel and compare the importance of perspective-specific value elements. MethodsAdditional value elements were prioritized in 2 phases: (1) we identified and categorized additional value elements in a targeted literature review, and (2) we convened a multistakeholder group-based preference elicitation study (N = 28) to evaluate the description of each value element and rank and generate normalized weights of each value element for its significance in value assessment. The importance of additional value elements was also weighted relative to patient-centric value elements. ResultsThe rank and weight of contextual value elements among 28 stakeholders were “severity of the disease” (26.2%), “disadvantaged and vulnerable target populations highly represented” (21.8%), “broader economic impact” (17.3%), “risk protection” (13.8%), “rarity of the disease” (11.3%), and “novel mechanism of action” (9.7%). Relative weight of the additional value elements versus patient-centric value elements was 52% and 48%, respectively. ConclusionsStudy findings may inform priority setting for value frameworks and emerging US government assessments. The group-based elicitation method is repeatable and useful for structured deliberative processes in value assessment and may help improve the consistency and predictability of what is important to stakeholders.

Silver-releasing bioactive glass nanoparticles for infected tissue regeneration

Bacterial infections represent a formidable challenge, often leaving behind significant bone defects post-debridement and necessitating prolonged antibiotic treatments. The rise of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains further complicates infection management. Bioactive glass nanoparticles have been presented as a promising substitute for bone defects and as carriers for therapeutic agents against microorganisms. Achieving consistent incorporation of ions into BGNs has proven challenging and restricted to a maximum ion concentration, especially when reducing the particle size. This study presents a notable achievement in the synthesis of 10 nm-sized Ag-doped bioactive glass nanoparticles (Ag-BGNs) using a modified yet straightforward Stöber method. The successful incorporation of essential elements, including P, Ca, Al, and Ag, into the glass structure at the intended concentrations (i.e., CaO wt% above 20 %) was confirmed by EDS, signifying a significant advancement in nanoscale biomaterial engineering. While exhibiting a spherical morphology and moderate dispersity, these nanoparticles tend to form submicron-sized aggregates outside of a solution state. The antibacterial effectiveness against MRSA was established across various experimental conditions, with Ag-BGNs effectively sterilizing planktonic bacteria without the need for antibiotics. Remarkably, when combined with oxacillin or fosfomycin, Ag-BGNs demonstrated a potent synergistic effect, restoring antibacterial capabilities against MRSA strains resistant to these antibiotics when used alone. Ag-BGNs exhibited potential in promoting human mesenchymal stromal cell proliferation, inducing the upregulation of osteoblast gene markers, and significantly contributing to bone regeneration in mice. This innovative synthesis protocol holds substantial promise for the development of biomaterials dedicated to the regeneration of infected tissue.

Leisure and Human Rights … or Social Justice?

This paper notes the recent increased interest of leisure researchers in the concepts of human rights and social justice, with social justice being particularly favored by North America researchers. Since both concepts concern the just treatment and well-being of individuals and social groups in contemporary society, the paper aims to establish whether they represent distinctly different approaches to analysis or are overlapping in meaning and possibly complementary. It is found that, while some proponents of social justice down-play the significance of human rights, it is widely accepted that human rights are a component of social justice and that broad inclusive definitions of human rights encompass most of the concerns of social justice. It is therefore concluded that the two approaches to leisure analysis are complementary and each would benefit from incorporation of elements of the other in its conceptual framework and from more extensive engagement key generic social theory and policy frameworks.

The Gathering Ground: Composing Collaboration in Nyilipidgi, a Dynamic Meeting of manikay and jazz

ABSTRACT Scholarship on Australian composition regularly draws attention to practices of unethical borrowing from Indigenous musical cultures, especially the incorporation of musical elements or themes from Australian Aboriginal traditions within orchestral compositions. By contrast, recent collaborative endeavours by improvising musicians renew approaches towards co-creation across cultural differences, foregrounding the generative interactions of Indigenous performance and ceremonial narratives. Exploring features of integration and juxtaposition in Nyilipidgi, by celebrated Australian pianist-composer Paul Grabowsky, this paper shows how jazz composition might be utilised to structure collaborations characterised by responsive listening and improvisation. We argue that Grabowsky’s compositional processes extend from narrative themes within the Yolŋu manikay tradition and performance practice of Wägilak ceremonial leaders, and that his approach sustains relationships between different people and cultures through musical integration and juxtaposition. Further, by outlining the development of Grabowsky’s collaborations with Wägilak singers, we argue that engagements between Indigenous and non-indigenous musicians are best enabled through long-term relationships of trust and the celebration of those relationships in performance.

An assessment of the legal and policy framework for participatory forest governance in Bangladesh

A robust and well-designed legal and policy framework is vital for ensuring successful public participation in forest management and engaging local governments and communities in conservation efforts. However, despite the presence of various policies and laws aimed at protecting environmental and biological resources, Bangladesh continues to experience significant depletion of its forest resources. This can be largely attributed to inadequate implementation of forest laws, a weak institutional structure, and a bureaucratic approach to forest management. This article undertakes an analysis of Bangladesh's policy and legal framework concerning participatory forest governance. It specifically examines the incorporation of participatory elements within the country's legal and policy framework for forest management. The assessment encompasses forest tenure, land use, and the practice of participatory forest management (PFM). Furthermore, the effectiveness of social forestry and co-management, the two primary approaches to achieving participatory forest governance in Bangladesh, is evaluated. Additionally, the article identifies the challenges hindering the successful implementation of these approaches. The argument put forth is that despite the apparent support for participatory forest management within Bangladesh’s policy and legal framework, the actual implementation of PFM and sustainable forest management (SFM) remains ineffective. This ineffectiveness can be attributed to poor policy execution, prioritization of profit-generation over sustainable management practices, lack of coherence within the legal framework, and the centralized decision-making process regarding state-owned forests.

Diseño de Interfaces de Usuario Centrado en el Usuario: Mejores Prácticas y Tendencias

The objective of this research was to understand best practices and trends in user-centered interface design. Through a qualitative methodology, different design strategies were examined and their impacts on user experience were evaluated. This approach allowed us to delve deeper into the intrinsic aspects and specific details that influence user perception and satisfaction. As a result, several emerging trends were identified, including the importance of intuitive design, adaptability to different devices,and the incorporation of interactive elements that enhance user immersion. It was found that interfaces that put the user at the center of the design process not only improve overall functionality, but also enhance user retention and loyalty.

Evaluating the effect of natural-artificial linear landscape elements on flow and sediment connectivity in a typical agricultural terraced catchment, China

Linear landscape elements, such as man-made ditches and road networks, play a pivotal role in the transport of water and eroded sediments. Yet very few studies have focused on the variations in drainage flow paths disturbed by artificial linear landscapes and their contribution to flow and sediment connectivity (FSC). This study utilized the index of connectivity (IC) to examine and distinguish the impact of natural and artificial linear landscape elements (i.e., natural streams, man-made ditches, and road networks) on the spatial distribution of FSC. The method was employed in a typical agricultural terraced catchment of the Honghe Hani Rice Terraces World Heritage Site of China, based on two weight factors - roughness index (RI) and Rndvic factor. The results indicate that the incorporation of the linear landscape elements for the IC calculation remarkably affected the spatial distribution of FSC. Specifically, FSC values notably increased by closing the distance to linear landscape elements within a specific threshold. Moreover, in the confluence between natural and artificial linear landscape elements, the mean value of FSC was higher compared to scenarios without any or only one linear landscape element. In comparison, the presence of road networks only improved lateral connectivity by modifying the surface flow along east-west directions, while man-made ditches significantly influenced both longitudinal and lateral connectivity to a larger degree, especially in the terraced area. This finding underscores the effectiveness of ditch constructions as management practices for the regulation of water resources and facilitating the downstream transfer of sediment. Field observations and validation confirmed that Rndvic, which incorporates vegetation variable as a weight factor in the calculation of IC, yields more accurate and reliable maps of FSC than that of RI. This study holds far-reaching significance for water resources management and landscape sustainability within terrace-protected areas, providing invaluable insights for decision-makers.

Mineralogical and chemical composition of Arctic gastropods shells

Assessment of environmental controls and natural variability of shell chemistry is inevitable to understand the future of marine calcifiers functioning under the climate change and acidification scenarios. Here we document mineralogical and chemical composition (Al/Ca, Ba/Ca, Fe/Ca, Mg/Ca, Mn/Ca, Na/Ca, P/Ca, S/Ca, Sr/Ca and Zn/Ca ratios) of shells of 27 gastropod species collected in four Arctic and sub-Arctic coastal localities. Most examined gastropods had purely aragonitic shells, although three species were characterized by bimineralic mineralogy, with calcite forming the external shell layer. Positive relationship between shell size and proportion of calcite in bimineralic gastropods indicated that older specimens could possess a thicker outer shell layer of calcite than did younger individuals. Statistically significant differences in shell chemical composition were found among species irrespective of the sampling location, suggesting that organisms exerted a biological control on elements uptake and retention. Extrinsic factors (mostly seawater temperature, seawater and sediment metals concentrations) contributed to elements uptake to a lesser degree. Thus, the observed differences in shell elements’ concentrations among gastropod species can be driven by both factors: species-specific selective incorporation of elements into shells and bioavailability of those elements in the ambient environment.

Interface-dominated deformation mechanisms in Cr/CrN/Cr-DLC multilayer triggered by nanoindentation

The diamond-like carbon (DLC) film traditionally possesses low toughness owing to high intrinsic compressive stress. The incorporation of other elements into the DLC film provides an effective approach to improving toughness, but it is still limited and produces some detrimental effects. In this study, a new strategy of designing the Cr/CrN multilayers to serve as a functional transition layer and doping Cr into DLC film is attempted to simultaneously improve the strength and ductility of DLC film. Herein, a profound understanding of the deformation mechanisms of Cr/CrN/Cr-DLC multilayers with different bilayer periods (BPs) during the indentation process is investigated. The maximum strength and toughness values are achieved by the Cr/CrN/Cr-DLC multilayer with BP of 10 nm (P10). The cooperation of multiple strengthening mechanisms involving the diminishment of dislocation motion within individual layers and the formation of coherent twin boundaries (CTBs) and Lomer-Cottrell locks (L-C locks) contributed significantly to the high hardness of P10. The predominant toughening mechanism of P10 is the formation of a substantial number of high-density stacking faults (SFs) in CrN sublayers, which is attributed to that the pre-existed CTBs with numerous kinks in CrN can reduce the stacking fault energies (SFEs) for P10. Few deformation twins facilitated the deformation of P10. In contrast, a versatile deformation mechanism appears in Cr/CrN/Cr-DLC with BP of 100 nm (P100) involving dislocation motion, SFs, deformation twins, and, of particular note, amorphization. However, the released energy related to deformation in P100 is limited, leading to cracks in the Cr-DLC top layer. This multilayer structure can provide additional strengthening and toughening mechanisms to endow the DLC film with profound mechanical properties in harsh service conditions.

Heterogeneity of otolith chemical composition from two-dimensional mapping: Relationship with biomineralization mechanisms and implications for microchemistry analyses.

Although otoliths are widely used as archives to infer life-history traits and habitat use in fishes, their biomineralization process remains poorly understood. This lack of knowledge is problematic as it can lead to misinterpretation of the different types of signals (e.g., optical or chemical) that provide basic data for research in fish ecology, fisheries management, and species conservation. Otolith calcification relies on a complex system involving a pericrystalline fluid, the endolymph, whose organic and inorganic compositions are spatially heterogeneous for some constituents. This property stems from the particular structure of the calcifying saccular epithelium. In this study, we explored the spatial heterogeneity of elemental incorporation in otoliths for two species of high economic interest, European hake Merluccius merluccius (L. 1758) and European sea bass Dicentrarchus labrax (L. 1758). Two-dimensional mappings of chemical elements were obtained using UV high-repetition-rate femtosecond laser ablation (fs-LA) system coupled to a high-resolution inductively coupled plasma sector field mass spectrometer analyses on transverse sections of sagittae. Results highlighted a clear asymmetry between proximal (sulcus) and distal (antisulcus) concentrations for elements such as magnesium (Mg), phosphorus (P), manganese (Mn), and potassium (K) with concentration gradient directions that varied depending on the element. Strontium (Sr) and barium (Ba) did not show a proximo-distal gradient. These results are discussed in light of current knowledge on the endolymph composition and the mechanisms that lead to its compartmentalization, highlighting the need for further research on otolith biomineralization. Operational implications for studies based on otolith chemical composition are also discussed with emphasis on advice for sampling strategies to avoid analytical biases and the need for in-depth analyses of analytical settings before comparing otolith signatures between species or geographical areas.