Optimal Growth Conditions Research Articles

Electrical Properties of N‐Polar GaN/AlGaN/AlN Grown via Metal‐Organic Vapor Phase Epitaxy

The metal‐organic vapor phase epitaxy (MOVPE) method faces several challenges when used for the growth of N‐polar GaN on foreign substrates, including the presence of a rough surface morphology characterized by step bunching or hexagonal hillocks. In this study, it is aimed to address these issues by establishing optimal growth conditions for the MOVPE method, enabling the growth of N‐polar GaN/Al0.9Ga0.1N/AlN heterostructures with a smooth surface morphology on a vicinal sapphire substrate. The formation of 2D electron gas (2DEG) in N‐polar GaN/AlGaN/AlN prepared using MOVPE is discussed. Additionally, in the study, the impact of growth conditions, such as temperature and V/III ratio, on the electrical properties of N‐polar GaN is investigated. In the results, it is revealed that growth at lower temperatures and a V/III ratio of 30 000 effectively suppresses 3D growth. Moreover, an increase in the V/III ratio correlates with a decrease in residual impurity concentrations (C and H); hence, electron mobility improves. Moreover, the N‐polar GaN/AlGaN/AlN field‐effect transistor, grown under optimized conditions, exhibits a higher maximum drain–source current (IDmax). In these results, possibilities are broadened for the high performance of N‐polar GaN channel high‐electron‐mobility transistors through MOVPE.

Enhancing Agricultural Practices Through IoT-Based Smart Farming Technologies: A Case Study on Banana Crop Yield Optimization

Aims: Smart farming and precision agriculture have emerged as transformative paradigms in modern agricultural practices, leveraging technological innovations to enhance productivity, sustainability, and efficiency in food production. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the concepts and technologies related to smart farming. The work proposed implements a sensor assisted IoT based model to enhance the overall yield of banana crop, by monitoring the current conditions existing at the site and predicting the alterations to achieve optimal conditions for conducive and healthy growth, further early identification and prediction of infection causing pathogens to have also been embedded in the model. Model designed has been tested on the farm field of banana crop located in the premises of Amity University Lucknow Campus equipped with moisture and humidity sensors (DHT11), NPK soil nutrient sensor, PIR motion sensor (HC-SR501), pH Sensor (pH -450), rain drop sensor along with camera installed drone for infection identification. Data from sensors and drone camera were monitored at regular intervals for future predictions about health and productivity estimate of the crop.

Synthesis and thermal characterization of pulsed laser deposited molybdenum on aluminium nitride substrates for heat sink applications

Thin films of molybdenum (Mo) were grown on aluminium nitride (AlN) substrates by pulsed laser deposition for heat sink applications. The effect of experimental growth parameters on the films’ structural properties were investigated by Scanning Electron Microscopy, X-Ray Diffraction and Atomic Force Microscopy. Thermal characterization was achieved by measuring the in-plane thermal diffusivity of the grown layers by means of a photothermal beam deflection technique using an IR heating laser. Within the experimental parameters studied in this work, a substrate temperature of 600 ˚C and an ambient argon gas pressure of 10 mTorr were identified as the optimal growth conditions for the synthesis of smooth and well-crystallized Mo layers. Concurrently, the thermal diffusivity of the films is significantly affected by film growth parameters. Under the optimal growth conditions, a thermal diffusivity value as high as 5.42x10-5 m2/s was measured, a value that is very close to that of bulk Mo, and which would be a result of the synthesis of polycrystalline Mo films whose grains’ size is greater than the heat carriers mean free path, namely the free electrons. The temperature dependence of the thermal diffusivity was also investigated, and the films were found to be stable up to an operating temperature of 200 °C. Beyond this temperature, photothermal beam deflection imaging shows the onset of film delamination from the underlying substrate.

Influence of soil organic matter, fertiliser formulation and season on fertiliser nitrogen use efficiency in temperate pastures

Intensively grazed dairy systems use high inputs of fertiliser nitrogen (N), and often supplementary irrigation, to ensure adequate pasture production to support milk output and meet the growing food demand. However, the efficiency of N use in these systems can be low and potential environmental impacts high. This study aimed to test the hypothesis that (1) use of two inhibitors, the urease inhibitor N-(n-butyl) thiophosphorictriamide (NBTPT) and the nitrification inhibitor 3,4-Dimethylpyrazole phosphate (DMPP) reduced N loss and improved pasture production compared to conventional N fertiliser (urea) in irrigated temperate perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) dairy pasture, and (2) their efficiency was affected by soil and environmental parameters. The effect of repeated applications of urea, at different rates, and the inhibitors were studied on pasture production and agronomic apparent fertiliser N use efficiency (NUE) over 2.5 years. The fate of a single application of N was determined through recovery of 15N-labeled fertiliser applied at 20 and 40 kg N ha−1 was studied in the field for one year. The highest yield and NUE occurred in spring–summer (from August to February) reflecting optimal growing conditions. The highest NUE occurred at low rates of urea application (20 and 40 kg N ha−1). Mineralisation played a key role in supplying N to pasture with 64–82% of total plant N derived from soil organic matter (SOM). Less than 50% of the applied N was recovered in the pasture (37–43%) with a large component retained in the soil (26–43% after one year, 0–40 cm), and slowly released in small amounts (< 2%) to the pasture over time, highlighting the abundant capacity of the native soil N pool to supply pasture N. Loss of N fertiliser (14–31%) was attributed to primarily ammonia (NH3) volatilisation and nitrate (NO3−) leaching. Use of the inhibitors NBTPT and DMPP did not significantly affect pasture yield or NUE, most likely because fertiliser N saved with the inhibitors only played a minor role in plant nutrition with the majority of the plant nutrition provided by the soil organic matter pool.

Adaptation and Mitigation of High Temperature Stress in Tomato

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) holds considerable economic significance as a vegetable crop globally, ranking second in both cultivated area and production worldwide. Optimal growth conditions for tomatoes typically fall within the temperature range of 25°C - 30°C during the day and around 20°C at night. However, deviations from these thresholds can lead to irreversible damage to plant growth and development. To counteract the adverse effects of high temperatures, tomato plants employ various adaptive mechanisms involving physiological, morphological, anatomical, and biochemical changes. Efforts to enhance thermotolerance in tomatoes encompass a range of strategies, including agronomic practices, the application of growth regulators and fertilizers to induce acclimation responses, breeding programs aimed at developing heat-resistant cultivars, and genetic modification. Various other methods are also employed to mitigate the impacts of high-temperature stress on plants, such as pretreating seeds with low concentrations of inorganic salts, applying osmoprotectants and signaling molecules through foliar sprays, and subjecting plants to preconditioning measures. These approaches facilitate stress avoidance and foster the development of inherent mechanisms for high-temperature tolerance in plants.

Site selection for farming the oyster Saccostrea cucullata in a tropical coastal lagoon

This study investigates the influence of variable environmental conditions on the growth of the natural rock oyster (hooded oyster) Saccostrea cucullata in the river-fed Ambinanibe coastal lagoon (Madagascar), with the objective to establish sites with optimal growth conditions for aquaculture purposes. Specimen marked with manganese were placed in cages over an approximately one-year period. The cages were installed at four sites i.e. one at the river mouth, two sites within the main lagoon and one site in an adjacent connected lagoon, which is out of river influence and considered as the control site. Multiple mark and recapture experiments were used to investigate the variations in growth rate and condition index (tissue weight/shell weight). The results show that the species overall exhibits a fast growth rate at a young age, with a gradual growth reduction with age. The hinge growth rate shows important spatial and seasonal variations in the lagoon. Oysters from the site located at the river mouth have the highest hinge growth rate (20.5 ± 13.6 µm d−1) and condition index (4.5 ± 2.8 %) while those from the control site out of river and ocean influences exhibit the lowest hinge growth rate (7.7 ± 4.2 µm d−1) and condition index (0.7 ± 0.6 %), suggesting that river freshwater inflow provides suitable environmental conditions for oyster growth and a profitable oyster farming is thus feasible. River inflow is an important external source of nutrients, providing thus a significant food source (phytoplankton), as well as suitable temperature and salinity conditions for S. cucullata in this lagoon. Overall, our results show that oyster market size (shell length: 40 mm) in Madagascar can be reached faster at the river-influenced site (in 8 months) in comparison with the other sites (in 1 – 1.2 years), indicating that the river-impacted site is well suitable for oyster farming.

Evaluating the Impact of Controlled Ultraviolet Light Intensities on the Growth of Kale Using IoT-Based Systems

Incorporating Internet of Things (IoT) technology into indoor kale cultivation holds significant promise for revolutionizing organic farming methodologies. While numerous studies have investigated the impact of environmental factors on kale growth in IoT-based smart agricultural systems, such as temperature, humidity, and nutrient levels, indoor ultraviolet (UV) LED light’s operational efficiencies and advantages in organic farming still need to be explored. This study assessed the efficacy of 15 UV light-controlling indoor experiments in three distinct lighting groups: kale cultivated using conventional household LED lights, kale cultivated using specialized indoor UV lights designed for plant cultivation, and kale cultivated using hybrid household and LED grow lights. The real-time IoT-based monitoring of light, soil, humidity, and air conditions, as well as automated irrigation using a water droplet system, was employed throughout the experiment. The experimental setup for air conditioning maintained temperatures at a constant 26 degrees Celsius over the 45-day study period. The results revealed that a combination of daylight household lights and indoor 4000 K grow lights scored the highest, indicating optimal growth conditions. The second group exposed to warm white household and indoor grow red light exhibited slightly lower scores but larger leaf size than the third group grown under indoor grow red light, likely attributable to reduced light intensity or suboptimal nutrient levels. This study highlights the potential of indoor UV LED light farming to address challenges posed by urbanization and climate change, thereby contributing to efforts to mitigate agricultural carbon emissions and enhance food security in urban environments. This research contributes to positioning kale as a sustainable organic superfood by optimizing kale cultivation.

Biological Traits and Comprehensive Genomic Analysis of Novel Enterococcus faecalis Bacteriophage EFP6.

Enterococcus faecalis is a prevalent opportunistic pathogen associated with chicken embryonic and neonatal chick mortality, posing a significant challenge in poultry farming. In the current study, E. faecalis strain EF6, isolated from a recent hatchery outbreak, served as the host bacterium for the isolation of a novel phage EFP6, capable of lysing E. faecalis. Transmission electron microscopy revealed a hexagonal head and a short tail, classifying EFP6 as a member of the Autographiviridae family. EFP6 showed sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation and resistance to chloroform. The lytic cycle duration of EFP6 was determined to be 50 min, highlighting its efficacy in host eradication. With an optimal multiplicity of infection of 0.001, EFP6 exhibited a narrow lysis spectrum and strong specificity towards host strains. Additionally, EFP6 demonstrated optimal growth conditions at 40 °C and pH 8.0. Whole genome sequencing unveiled a genome length of 18,147 bp, characterized by a GC concentration of 33.21% and comprising 25 open reading frames. Comparative genomic assessment underscored its collinearity with related phages, notably devoid of lysogenic genes, thus ensuring genetic stability. This in-depth characterization forms the basis for understanding the biological attributes of EFP6 and its potential utilization in phage therapy, offering promising prospects for mitigating E. faecalis-associated poultry infections.

Isolation, characterization, and predatory activity of nematode-trapping fungus, Arthrobotrys oligospora PSGSS01

A research study was undertaken to find a fungus that could effectively trap and kill Meloidogyne spp., which are root-knot nematodes that cause significant crop loss worldwide. Soil samples were collected and processed appropriately for the isolation of nematode-trapping fungi. After a primary screening, a potential nematode-trapping fungus, Arthrobotrys oligospora (Orbilia oligospora) PSGSS01 was selected for further investigation. Its growth was tested under various conditions, including different media types, temperatures, and pH levels. Its predatory activity on Meloidogyne incognita was also assessed in vitro. The fungus exhibited septate double-celled conidiospores, trapping hyphae, and radiating and sparse mycelium. Optimal conditions for growth were found to be at 25 °C and a pH of 4.0 and 5.0 on corn meal agar. The best temperature and pH for conidiospore germination were 25°C − 37°C and 5.0, respectively. The isolate could trap 94% of second-stage juveniles of M. incognita, and 92% juvenile mortality was recorded in 120 h at 28°C. Therefore, the study concluded that the isolate A. oligospora (Orbilia oligospora) PSGSS01 could be used as a biological control agent against root-knot nematodes.

Controlled Localized Metal-Organic Framework Synthesis on Anion Exchange Membranes.

Metal-organic framework (MOF) films can be used in various applications. In this work, we propose a method that can be used to synthesize MOF films localized on a single side of an anion exchange membrane, preventing the transport of the metal precursor via Donnan exclusion. This is advantageous compared to the related contra-diffusion method that results in the growth of a MOF film on both sides of the support, differing in quality on both sides. Our proposed method has the advantage that the synthesis conditions can potentially be tuned to create the optimal conditions for crystal growth on a single side. The localized growth of the MOF is governed by Donnan exclusion of the anion exchange membrane, preventing metal ions from passing to the other compartment, and this leads to a local control of the precursor stoichiometry. In this work, we show that our method can localize the growth of both Cu-BTC and ZIF-8 in water and in methanol, respectively, highlighting that this method can used for preparing a variety of MOF films with varying characteristics using soluble precursors at room temperature.

Supplementation of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) residue for growth and lactic acid production of probiotic bacterial Lactobacillus spp.

Date palm is an age-old cultivated plant that thrives in tropical and subtropical regions. The date palm is a bountiful source of carbohydrates, encompassing sucrose, glucose, and fructose and proteins. The date industry generates a significant volume of unused by-products. Dates offer a diverse range of by-products beyond the agri-food sector. LAB have garnered extensive utilisation across diverse food sectors, spanning meat, vegetables, beverages, dairy products, and other fermented foods. In the quest for establishing a new large-scale fermentation process for lactic acid there has been a concerted effort to utilise more cost-effective medium components. In the present work, date palm residue (DPR) derived from date palm fruit, after sugar extraction, was incorporated into MRS. The fermentation process was executed through two distinct fermentation systems. Initially, experiments were conducted in flasks. Afterward, the optimal conditions for bacterial growth were determined, and the experiment was carried out using a bioreactor. DPR supported the probiotic Lactobacillus spp. growth especially after 48 h incubation. The prebiotic effect of DPR on Lactobacillus spp. was reported. An increase in the total number of bacterial populations was observed in response to the addition the DPR until 48 h. Specifically, the supplementing DPR at a concentration of 1.5% in batch fermentation enhanced the growth and lactic acid production of Lactobacillus casei. This study suggests that DPR could potentially function as an economical prebiotic source and could be seamlessly incorporated as a functional food ingredient, thereby transforming a waste product into an economically sustainable food substrate.

Biodegradation of monocrotophos by Stenotrophomonas maltophilia and its potential in vitro plant growth promoting activities

Extensive field application of monocrotophos (MCP), an organophosphate pesticide to protect agricultural crops and yields, imposes severe environmental issues due to its long-term persistence in soil and water. Indigenous bacterial strain CAB5 was isolated from a severely monocrotophos-contaminated agricultural field in Mysuru, Karnataka. The strain was assessed for its ability to biodegrade monocrotophos and plant-growth promoting factors. CAB5, identified as Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (OQ861256). It exhibited monocrotophos tolerance up to 1000 ppm by utilizing it as sole carbon source for metabolism and growth. S. maltophilia can produce several plant growth-promoting (PGP) traits, including ammonia, cellulase, IAA, catalase, and phosphate solubilization. The optimal condition for CAB5 growth observed as pH 8, 37 ℃ temperature, and 96 h of incubation time, respectively. Biodegradation was analyzed by combining hyphenated techniques like UV spectroscopy and TLC, and the intermediate metabolites were analyzed by FT-IR and LC-MS. Dimethyl-phosphate, Trimethyl phosphate, and Cyclohexanone, 2-cyclohexylidene were the intermediate metabolites formed from biodegradation. It is concluded that S. maltophilia CAB5 could be an advantageous with the consortium-based formulated prototype for the refinement of polluted sites for toxic pollutants along with plant growth promotion.

A Review Delving into the Factors Influencing Mycelium-Based Green Composites (MBCs) Production and Their Properties for Long-Term Sustainability Targets.

Mycelium-based green composites (MBCs) represent an eco-friendly material innovation with vast potential across diverse applications. This paper provides a thorough review of the factors influencing the production and properties of MBCs, with a particular focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and long-term sustainability goals. It delves into critical aspects such as fungal species selection, substrate type selection, substrate preparation, optimal conditions, dehydrating methods, post-processing techniques, mold design, sterilization processes, cost comparison, key recommendations, and other necessary factors. Regarding fungal species selection, the paper highlights the significance of considering factors like mycelium species, decay type, hyphal network systems, growth rate, and bonding properties in ensuring the safety and suitability of MBCs fabrication. Substrate type selection is discussed, emphasizing the importance of chemical characteristics such as cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin content, pH, organic carbon, total nitrogen, and the C: N ratio in determining mycelium growth and MBC properties. Substrate preparation methods, optimal growth conditions, and post-processing techniques are thoroughly examined, along with their impacts on MBCs quality and performance. Moreover, the paper discusses the importance of designing molds and implementing effective sterilization processes to ensure clean environments for mycelium growth. It also evaluates the costs associated with MBCs production compared to traditional materials, highlighting potential cost savings and economic advantages. Additionally, the paper provides key recommendations and precautions for improving MBC properties, including addressing fungal strain degeneration, encouraging research collaboration, establishing biosecurity protocols, ensuring regulatory compliance, optimizing storage conditions, implementing waste management practices, conducting life cycle assessments, and suggesting parameters for desirable MBC properties. Overall, this review offers valuable insights into the complex interplay of factors influencing MBCs production and provides guidance for optimizing processes to achieve sustainable, high-quality composites for diverse applications.

Nano Biochar: Properties, Preparation, Key Features and its Impact on Soil and Crop Ecosystem

Nano biochar, a carbon-rich material, is increasingly recognized for its pivotal role in sustainable agriculture and environmental management. It is produced through the pyrolysis of biomass under controlled conditions, converting organic matter into a stable form of carbon. This process effectively sequesters carbon and mitigates greenhouse gas emissions while yielding a valuable soil amendment. In agriculture, biochar offers multifaceted benefits. Its porous structure enhances soil fertility and water retention, fostering optimal conditions for plant growth. By serving as a reservoir for nutrients, biochar promotes their slow release, reducing the risk of leaching and nutrient runoff. Moreover, its neutral pH and high organic carbon content contribute to soil health and microbial activity. Some key features of nano biochar are enhancing surface area and porosity, improved soil fertility, nutrient retention and recycling, slow-release fertilizer, enhanced microbial population, carbon sequestration etc. Furthermore, biochar aids in waste management by utilizing agricultural residues as feedstock. However, despite its promising advantages, biochar application requires careful consideration. Variations in feedstock and production methods can influence its efficacy and environmental impact. Moreover, its long-term effects on soil health and crop productivity warrant further research and field trials. It presents a sustainable solution for enhancing agricultural productivity, mitigating climate change, and managing organic waste. However, its optimal utilization necessitates comprehensive understanding, integrated management practices, and ongoing scientific inquiry.

Metal extraction capacities of the two halophytes Sesuvium portulacastrum and Suaeda australis from New Caledonian estuaries contaminated with metals

The increase in population and its needs have worsened the issue of metal contamination of the environment, negatively impacting plants, animals, and human health. New Caledonia, a biodiversity hotspot, faces a significant source of metals from mining activity and erosion that affect unique ecosystems that require protection. In this study, we explore the potential of halophytes to remediate metals, with the aim of safeguarding seashores and lagoons. We examine the optimal growth and metal bioaccumulation conditions of two halophytic species, Sesuvium portulacastrum (L.) L. and Suaeda australis (R.Br.) Moq, which dominates the salt marshes of New Caledonian coasts. These species were subjected to two levels of metal concentration and two levels of irrigation frequency, which mimic the fluctuation in soil water content due to seasonal changes and tidal irregularities. The results showed that S. portulacastrum growth was enhanced when the irrigation frequency was lowered, while S. australis preferred constant soil moisture. S. australis accumulated more Ni, Co, and Cr than S. portulacastrum, especially in the roots. However, S. portulacastrum transported more metals in the aerial parts than S. australis. This work showed promising abilities of both species to accumulate metals and suggests further research to improve their metal phytoremediation potential in New Caledonian salt marshes.

Prediction Fuzzy Implementation in Monitoring System Based On Humidity, Soil Quality, And Environmental Conditions

This research aims to evaluate the quality of soybean plant growth by considering three main factors: moisture content, light intensity, and soil pH. The Mamdani method is used as a system approach to optimize the processing of collected data for plant growth support. Measurements were taken using a sampling method to analyze the data comprehensively. In this experiment, moisture content, light intensity, and soil pH were measured to create optimal conditions for soybean plant growth. The implementation of the Mamdani method in this system is done by classifying inputs, such as data on water content, light intensity, and soil pH used during the planting period, then producing outputs based on experiments conducted according to predetermined criteria. Furthermore, comparisons are made to the samples to get the results of data analysis. This method can provide recommendations for optimizing environmental conditions for plants. By utilizing MATLAB application, accurate data analysis and visualization of results can be done efficiently. This research is expected to provide in-depth insight into the complex interactions between the three factors and their impact on soybean plant growth. This has significant implications for the development of sustainable agriculture and can provide valuable insights for farmers to improve soybean yields.

Growth charts for use at birth and in the neonatal period: Recommendations of the French Neonatal Society.

The use of different growth charts can lead to confusion in discussions between professionals. There are obstetric charts (of fetal growth) and neonatal charts (of measurements at birth and of postnatal growth). These charts can be descriptive (derived from an unselected population) or prescriptive (derived from of a population at low risk and with optimal conditions for growth). (1) To describe available charts for infants at birth and in the neonatal period and compare them, and (2) to recommend one or more charts for use in neonatology in France. Bibliographic research was conducted on MEDLINE and completed by the guidelines of professional societies. Antenatal information about fetal growth restriction or fetuses identified as small-for-gestational-age using Intrauterine charts must be integrated into the identification of newborns at risk, but the use of Intrauterine charts to evaluate birthweight is not recommended to allow consistency with postnatal charts used in neonatal practice. Z-score variations using the updated Fenton postnatal charts are the most appropriate for the assessment of birthweight and postnatal growth for infants born preterm. These charts are sex-specific, include the three measurements (length, weight, and head circumference) and enable longitudinal follow-up of growth up to 50 weeks of corrected age and are linked to the World Health Organization charts at term. The French Audipog charts, although are individualized, accessible online and can be used in maternity units to evaluate birthweight for term infants, but do not allow the follow-up of postnatal growth, while Fenton charts may be used to evaluate birthweight and postnatal growth in the first month for hospitalized term infants. The updated Fenton charts are the neonatal charts that best suit the objectives of pediatricians in France for monitoring the growth of preterm newborns. The use of the Audipog charts at term remains an alternative in maternity wards, while Fenton charts can be used for hospitalized term newborns.

Influence of Kluyveromyces lactis and Enterococcus faecalis on Obtaining Lactic Acid by Cheese Whey Fermentation

Cheese whey is a byproduct of the cheese industry that causes high levels of pollution in the environment, but its high lactose content means that it can be used as a source to obtain lactic acid. In this study, two strains, one belonging to a yeast and the other one to a bacteria (Kluyveromyces lactis and Enterococcus faecalis), were isolated from cheese whey and molecularly characterized, and the optimal growth conditions were determined. Then, using proteinized and deproteinized cheese whey, batch fermentation was carried out with the strains arranged in suspension and immobilized. The consumption of lactose and the production of lactic acid were measured through Brix degrees and acidity analysis. Afterwards, the lactic acid was purified, and its yield and physical and chemical characteristics were determined. It was proven that there were differences between each of the strains; arranged in free or encapsulated cells, the proteinized and deproteinized cheese wheys, under the same purification conditions, achieved different yields, colors, and densities of lactic acid. Immobilized Enterococcus faecalis had the highest yield (50.61 ± 34.94 g/L) using the deproteinized cheese whey compared to the immobilized Kluyveromyces lactis (35.70 ± 0.15 g/L) using the proteinized cheese whey.

Isolation, Identification and Characterization of Leptosphaerulina trifolii, the Causative Agent of Alfalfa Leptosphaerulina Leaf Spot in Inner Mongolia, China

Leptosphaerulina leaf spot, caused by Leptosphaerulina trifolii, is a major disease of alfalfa (Medicago sativa), leading to noticeable losses. From 2022 to 2023, we collected samples of alfalfa with symptoms of the disease from different locations in Inner Mongolia, China. Nine fungal isolates recovered from these samples were identified through morphological traits and a maximum likelihood phylogeny based on concatenated partial sequences of ITS, 28S, and rpb2. A pathogenicity test on alfalfa confirmed the pathogenicity of the isolates on alfalfa. Analysis of physiological traits of L. trifolii revealed optimal mycelium growth at 20 °C and a pH range of 5 to 7, with soluble starch as the preferred carbon source and yeast extract as the optimal nitrogen source. The pathogen thrived in V8-juice agar and oat agar media. This study confirms L. trifolii as the causative agent of Leptosphaerulina leaf spot of alfalfa in Inner Mongolia and provides valuable insights into its optimal growth conditions. These findings enhance the understanding and management of this disease in alfalfa fields.

Bandgap modulations and promoted carrier separation in crystalline g-C3N4 thin films via chemical vapor deposition

The preparation of high-quality graphite-like phase carbon nitride (g-C3N4) films is challenging, which limits the potential optoelectronic and photocatalytic applications. Here, we report the growth of crystalline g-C3N4 films with thicknesses of approximately 100–200 nm on the indium tin oxide substrates by chemical vapor deposition. The films show high crystalline quality and uniformity as suggested by the appearance of interference fringes in the transmission spectra and the existence of exciton peak. The optimized growth conditions for high-quality g-C3N4 films deposition have been obtained through combined optical characterizations and detailed electronic structure analyses using x-ray spectroscopies. The as-grown g-C3N4 films exhibit a bandgap value of 3.05 eV as well as an enhanced fluorescence lifetime of ∼12.43 ns. By adding thiourea to the melamine precursors, N vacancies have been formed in the main heptazine structure, achieving the modulation of the bandgap and the promoted carrier separation. This work provides guidelines for understanding the property–structure relationships during g-C3N4 film deposition. The deposition of high crystallinity g-C3N4 films therein further extends the applications in the fields of optoelectronic and photocatalytic devices.