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Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a leading factor in end-stage renal disease. The complexity of its pathogenesis, combined with the limited treatment efficacy, necessitates deeper insights into potential causes. Studies suggest that ferroptosis-driven renal tubular damage contributes to DKD's progression, making its counteraction a potential therapeutic strategy. Quercetin, a flavonoid found in numerous fruits and vegetables, has demonstrated DKD mitigation in mouse models, though its protective mechanism remains ambiguous. In this study, we delved into quercetin's potential anti-ferroptotic properties, employing a DKD rat model and high glucose (HG)-treated renal tubular epithelial cell models. Our findings revealed that HG prompted unusual ferroptosis activation in renal tubular epithelial cells. However, quercetin counteracted this by inhibiting ferroptosis and activating NFE2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) expression in both DKD rats and HG-treated HK-2 cells, indicating its renal protective role. Further experiments, both in vivo and in vitro, validated that quercetin stimulates Nrf2. Thus, our research underscores quercetin's potential in DKD treatment by modulating the ferroptosis process via activating Nrf2 in a distinct DKD rat model, offering a fresh perspective on quercetin's protective mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tight sandstone and shale oil and gas are the key targets of unconventional oil and gas exploration in the lake-delta sedimentary systems of China. Understanding the coevolutionary diagenesis of sandstone and shale reservoirs is crucial for the prediction of reservoir quality, ahead of drilling, in such systems. Thin-section description, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), fluid inclusion analysis, porosity and permeability tests, high-pressure mercury intrusion (HPMI) measurements and nuclear magnetic resonance tests (NMR) were used to reveal the coevolutionary diagenetic mechanisms of a sandstone and shale reservoir in the Lianggaoshan Formation of the Eastern Sichuan Basin, China. The thermally mature, organic-matter-rich, dark shale of layer3 is the most important source rock within the Lianggaoshan Formation. It started to generate abundant organic acids at the early stage of mesodiagenesis and produced abundant hydrocarbons in the early Cretaceous. Porewater with high concentrations of Ca2+ and CO32− entered the sandstone reservoir from dark shale as the shale was compacted during burial. Potassium feldspar dissolution at the boundary of the sandstone was more pervasive than at the center of the sandstone. The K+ released by potassium feldspar dissolution migrated from the sandstone into mudstone. Grain-rimming chlorite coats occurred mainly in the center of the sandstone. Some silica exported from the shale was imported by the sandstone boundary and precipitated close to the shale/sandstone boundary. Some intergranular dissolution pores and intercrystal pores were formed in the shale due to dissolution during the early stages of mesodiagenesis. Chlorite coats, which precipitated during eodiagenesis, were beneficial to the protection of primary pore space in the sandstone. Calcite cement, which preferentially precipitated at the boundary of sandstone, was not conducive to reservoir development. Dissolution mainly occurred at the early stage of mesodiagenesis due to organic acids derived from the dark shale. Calcite cement could also protect some primary pores from compaction and release pore space following dissolution. The porosity of sandstone and shale was mainly controlled by the thickness of sandstone and dark shale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Microglial polarization plays a critical role in neuroinflammation and may be a potential therapeutic target for ischemic stroke. This study was to explore the role and underlying molecular mechanism of Circular RNA PTP4A2 (circPTP4A2) in microglial polarization after ischemic stroke. Methods: C57BL/6J mice underwent transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO), while primary mouse microglia and BV2 microglial cells experienced oxygen glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) to mimic ischemic conditions. CircPTP4A2 shRNA lentivirus and Colivelin were used to knock down circPTP4A2 and upregulate signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) phosphorylation, respectively. Microglial polarization was assessed using immunofluorescence staining and Western blot. RNA pull‐down and RNA binding protein immunoprecipitation (RIP) were applied to detect the binding between circPTP4A2 and STAT3. Results: The levels of circPTP4A2 were significantly increased in plasma and peri‐infarct cortex in tMCAO mice. CircPTP4A2 knockdown reduced infarct volume, increased cortical cerebral blood flow (CBF), and attenuated neurological deficits. It also decreased pro‐inflammatory factors levels in peri‐infarct cortex and plasma, and increased anti‐inflammatory factors concentrations 24 h post‐stroke. In addition, circPTP4A2 knockdown suppressed M1 microglial polarization and promoted M2 microglial polarization in both tMCAO mice and OGD/R‐induced BV2 microglial cells. Moreover, circPTP4A2 knockdown inhibited the phosphorylation of STAT3 induced by oxygen–glucose deprivation. In contrast, increased phosphorylation of STAT3 partly counteracted the effects of circPTP4A2 knockdown. RNA pull‐down and RIP assays further certified the binding between circPTP4A2 and STAT3. Conclusion: These results revealed regulatory mechanisms of circPTP4A2 that stimulated neuroinflammation by driving STAT3‐dependent microglial polarization in ischemic brain injury. CircPTP4A2 knockdown reduced cerebral ischemic injury and promoted microglial M2 polarization, which could be a novel therapeutic target for ischemic stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atopic dermatitis is one of the most common dermatologic problems, especially in children. Given the ability of symbiotic microorganisms in modulating the immune system, probiotics administration has been studied in previous research in the management of atopic dermatitis. However, there are conflicting results between studies. In this study, we aimed to assess the effectiveness of mixed probiotics as a treatment option for atopic dermatitis induced by ovalbumin. BALB/c juvenile mice were classified and divided into the ovalbumin group, mixed probiotic group (ovalbumin + LK), and control group. Except for the control group, all mice were sensitized with ovalbumin to establish a model of atopic dermatitis. The mixed probiotics were given by gavage for 14 days. Mice body weight, skin lesions, skin inflammation, ovalbumin-specific Ig, the number of Treg and CD103+DC, and the expression level of PD-1/PD-L1 were examined. The results showed that mixed probiotics can improve body weight and alleviate skin symptoms. Mixed probiotics reduced serum Th2 inflammatory factors, eosinophils, mast cell degranulation, mast cell count, and the expression of ovalbumin-specific immunoglobulin E/G1 and increased the anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10, Treg cells, CD103+DC cells, and the expression level of PD-1/PD-L1. These findings suggest that mixed probiotics could be a viable treatment option for atopic dermatitis and provide insight into the underlying mechanisms involved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Accumulating studies have shown that circulating circular RNAs (circRNAs) represent novel biomarkers for many human diseases. We investigated whether plasma circPTP4A2 and circTLK2 levels are associated with stroke severity, infarct volume, stroke etiology, and functional outcome in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients. Methods: We applied quantitative real‐time PCR (qPCR) to measure plasma circPTP4A2 and circTLK2 levels of 236 AIS patients within 72 h of symptoms onset and 136 healthy controls. We further assessed the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), infarct size, the Trial of Org 10172 in Acute Stroke Treatment (TOAST) classification and the 90‐day modified Rankin scale (mRS) for each patient. Results: At admission, plasma circPTP4A2 and circTLK2 levels in patients with moderate to severe stroke were significantly higher compared to those with mild stroke. Logistic regression and receiver‐operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses indicated that they might function as predictive biomarkers for moderate to severe stroke. We also observed a medium positive correlation between these two circRNAs and NIHSS. Plasma circPTP4A2 and circTLK2 levels were slight positively correlated with cerebral infarct volume only in anterior circulation infarction (ACI) patients. Levels of both circPTP4A2 and circTLK2 were closely related with large artery atherosclerosis (LAA) stroke. Moreover, changes within 7 days after admission in circPTP4A2 and circTLK2 were able to predict unfavorable clinical outcome 90 days after AIS. Interpretation: These results demonstrate that plasma circPTP4A2 and circTLK2 strongly correlated with severity, subtypes and prognosis of AIS, and they could serve as promising biomarkers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of extraordinarily high organic matter content (EHOMC) is beneficial to promote the fine evaluation of shale oil and gas, but so far, there have been few studies on its mechanism. This paper carried out a comprehensive lithological and geochemical analysis of the black shales of the Wujiaping Formation in the Kaijiang-Liangping Trough. The results showed that the black shales of the Wujiaping Formation can be divided into two units (the upper and lower parts), and EHOMC occurs in its upper part. The redox-sensitive trace elements (RSTEs), MoEF-UEF covariation, and Ni/Co correlation showed that the lower part of Wujiaping Formation was a weakly restricted oxidation environment, while the upper part evolved into a sulfidation reducing environment. The productivity indicator elements (BaXS, NiXS, CuXS, P, and Mo) indicated that the upper Wujiaping Formation had higher primary productivity than the lower part. However, rare earth elements ((La/Yb)N) indicated that the deposition rate in the lower part of the Wujiaping Formation was higher than that in the upper part. In general, although the oxygenated water in the lower part of the Wujiaping Formation is not conducive to the preservation of organic matter, the high input of nutrients from land sources and the high deposition rate inhibit the decomposition of organic matter, so the lower part has a certain degree of organic matter accumulation. The sulfidation reducing environment and high paleoproductivity are the main reasons for the enrichment of organic matter in the upper part of the Wujiaping Formation. In addition, the sulfidation reducing environment and high paleoproductivity occurred during the violent upwelling at the end of Guadeloupe, a period of high sea level, these factors have jointly contributed to the enrichment of OM in the upper the Wujiaping Formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medication persistence has rarely been studied for integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI)-based regimens among patients living HIV (PLWH) in Asia. This study investigated medication persistence for newly prescribed INSTI-based regimens in Japan by comparing single-tablet regimens (STRs) versus multiple-tablet regimens (MTRs), based on the Medical Data Vision database. Adult PLWH with ≥2 claims for antiretroviral therapy (ART) of interest between 1 January 2017 and 30 June 2018 were included if they had a ≥3-month continuous enrolment prior to the index date and a ≥6-month follow-up after the index date. Medication persistence was measured as the duration from initiation to discontinuation of the prescribed INSTI-based regimen. Overall, 487 patients were included, with 220 in the STR cohort and 267 in the MTR cohort. Persistence was longer in the STR cohort than in the MTR cohort (mean days on the index regimens: 384.2 vs. 317.3, P < 0.001). MTRs were associated with a higher risk of discontinuation than STRs (hazard ratio [HR], 1.72; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.18–2.52; P = 0.005). Other factors that were associated with discontinuation were backbone (emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate vs. emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide: HR, 5.64; 95% CI, 3.68–8.66; P < 0.001), third agent (raltegravir vs. elvitegravir/cobicistat: HR, 2.06; 95% CI, 1.10–3.86; P = 0.024), age (HR, 1.02; 95% CI, 1.01–1.03; P = 0.007), and the number of non-ART index medications (HR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.12–1.21; P < 0.001). Among PLWH newly prescribed an INSTI-based regimen in Japan, STRs were associated with longer persistence than MTRs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The height of the water flowing fractured zone (HWFFZ) is the key parameter for safe coal mining under water bodies. In order to improve the accuracy of prediction model of the HWFFZ, the grey relational analysis (GRA) is used to quantitatively analyze the influencing factors of the HWFFZ, the main influencing factors of the HWFFZ under the condition of comprehensive mechanized mining and comprehensive top coal caving mining are selected scientifically, and these five factors that include mining depth, mining thickness, inclined length of working face, hard rock lithology proportion coefficient, and coal seam dip angle are selected as the discriminant indexes for predicting the HWFFZ. Nonlinear inertia weight adjustment, linear adjustments of local acceleration factor and global acceleration factor, and Gaussian mutation operation are introduced into particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm to improve the performance of PSO algorithm. The modified particle swarm optimization (MPSO) algorithm is used to optimize the initial weights and thresholds of back propagation (BP) neural network, and the prediction model of the HWFFZ based on MPSO-BP neural network algorithm is established according to the measured data. The prediction results are compared with those of PSO-BP neural network model and empirical formulas, the results show that the prediction accuracy of MPSO-BP neural network prediction model is higher than that of PSO-BP neural network prediction model and empirical formulas, and its prediction mean relative error (MRE) is smallest. The model also has good application effect and certain guiding significance for actual production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inflammation and glomerular endothelial dysfunction promote diabetic kidney disease (DKD) progression, but the mechanisms are not fully understood. Allograft inflammatory factor-1 (AIF-1) is a protein that regulates inflammatory reactions and immune responses. This study aimed to explore the mechanism of AIF-1 in a DKD animal model and mouse renal glomerular endothelial cells (MRGECs). We injected AIF-1-shRNA into the tail vein to knockdown AIF-1 in db/db mice. Metabolic index, renal pathological changes and inflammatory factors were measured in each group. Lentiviral transfection was used to overexpress AIF-1 in MRGECs. Inflammatory factors, oxidative stress and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway-related proteins were examined. AIF-1 expression was upregulated in glomerular endothelial cells in renal tissues of db/db mice. Knockdown of AIF-1 reversed kidney injury and renal inflammation in db/db mice. In a 30 mM high-glucose environment, overexpression of AIF-1 in MRGECs activated the NF-κB pathway and induced inflammation and oxidative stress. Moreover, this damage could be attenuated by the addition of an NF-κB inhibitor (BAY 11–7082). In conclusion, AIF-1 facilitates glomerular endothelial cell inflammation and oxidative stress in DKD via the NF-κB signaling pathway. Our results provide evidence for the molecular mechanism of DKD and may offer a potential target for DKD treatment. • We firstly tested that the expression of AIF-1 was increased in db/db mice located in MRGECs. • In both vitro MRGECs model and vivo db/db mice model,AIF-1 could relieve kidney injury, inflammation and oxidative stress. • AIF-1 facilitates inflammation and oxidative stress in MRGECs via the NF-κB signaling pathway under high glucose. • Our results bring evidence for the molecular mechanism of DKD and may offer AIF-1 as a potential target for DKD treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study on dolomite characteristics and its forming mechanism is of great significance for dolomitization theory and dolomite reservoir exploration. In recent years, the exploration of dolomite reservoirs in the Sichuan Basin has reached a bottleneck state. This study takes the Qixia Formation, Middle Permian in Northwest Sichuan basin as an example, the characteristics, distribution, diagenetic fluid, diagenetic environment of dolomite, and the dolomite formation mechanism were analyzed by means of observation and sampling of outcrops and cores, electronic scanning microscopy (SEM), and measurements of rare-earth elements (REEs), carbon isotopes, oxygen isotopes, and strontium isotopes. The results show that the dolomite exists in two forms, P-dol (dolomite in the dolomitic part of the mottled dolomitic limestone), and C-dol (crystalline dolomite). Core photos show that C-dol can be divided into two types: dolomite-A (dol-A) and dolomite-B (dol-B). The samples are low ∑REEs + Y, 13C (1.32‰–4.32‰), negative δ18O (− 5.87‰ to − 1.99‰) and δCe, and high in δEu and 87Sr/86Sr ratio (0.70724–0.70923). The partition pattern of REEs in the samples shows seawater characteristics of LREE loss, La enrichment, Ce weak loss, and Gd enrichment. These characteristics indicate that the diagenetic fluid of dolomite in the study area was a hybrid of seawater and freshwater and the diagenetic environment was at relatively high temperature. Moreover, after extending the “Mg cage effect” theory proposed by Folk, it is found that Mg2+ removed from sediments that were flushed by fresh water during the syndiagenetic stage facilitate the formation of dolomites. In accordance with the geological setting, a unique dolomitization model of the Middle Permian Qixia formation in the northwestern Sichuan Basin was built. The stratum in this model can be divided into four zones from top to bottom: freshwater vadose zone, mixed vadose zone, mixed phreatic zone, and seawater phreatic zone. The mottled dolomitic limestone is developed in the mixed vadose zone and the crystalline dolomite in the mixed phreatic zone. This study provides important evidences for the formation mechanism of dolomite and a reference to the study of ancient dolomite genesis and reservoirs of the Middle Permian Qixia formation in the northwest Sichuan Basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Great breakthroughs have been recently made in exploring oil and gas in the Middle Permian Qixia Formation, the southwestern Sichuan Basin, China. These discoveries in dolomitic reservoirs revealed abundant hydrocarbon reserves, agreeing on traditional predictions associated with dolomite prospect, which also left the controversy about the nature of dolomitization. Therefore, it is particularly important to research dolomite reservoirs characteristics and their genesis. In this study, comprehensive analyses, including pore-casted thin-section observation, scanning electron microscopy, physical property analysis, mercury injection measurement, fluid inclusion test, and isotopic measurement, are carried out to characterize Qixia Formation dolomites that are sampled from five outcrop sections and nine wells, followed by an investigation into controlling factors of these characteristics and establishment of pore evolution models. Granular dolomites, especially fine-grained and coarser dolomites, are demonstrated to be the best reservoir rocks, with their reservoir capacity positively related to dolomite grain sizes. There are mainly four types of pore-throat structures, namely large pores with wide throats, medium pores with medium throats, small pores with narrow throats, and fracture pore-throat structure. Dolomite reservoirs in the study area have experienced complex diagenetic changes, including the meteoric water dissolution in the penecontemporaneous stage, dolomitization in the shallow-burial stage, and hydrothermal- and formation water-related dissolution during the middle-deep burial stage. High-quality reservoirs are mainly distributed in the shoal facies deposits, especially where both dolomitization and multi-stage dissolution have occurred. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cast thin section observation, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high‐pressure mercury injection (HPMI), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) were used to examine the microstructure of tight carbonate reservoirs in the Lower Jurassic Da'anzhai Member, the central Sichuan Basin. The pore space in the Da'anzhai Member is classified into 2 types and 17 subtypes, with nano‐scale pore throats of 'O', 'S', 'Z', and 'I' shapes. Poorly sorted pore throats vary greatly in diameter; thus, it is difficult for fluid flow to pass through these pore throats. There are three classes of pore throats in carbonate reservoirs, i.e. isolated pores, pores coexisting with fractures, and large pores and fractures. Isolated pores may provide some pore space, but the permeability is low. Pores and fractures coexisting in the reservoir may have a great impact on porosity and permeability; they are the major pore space in the reservoir. Large pores and fractures have a great impact on reservoir properties, but they only account for a limited proportion of total pore space. The microstructure of Da'anzhai reservoirs, which dominates fluid mobility, is dependent on sedimentary environment, diagenesis, and tectonic process. Pore structure is related to sedimentary environment. The occurrence of microfractures, which may improve reservoir properties, is dependent on tectonic process. Diageneses are of utmost importance to pore evolution, cementation and growth of minerals have played an important role in destroying reservoir microstructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A number of studies have shown that aldosterone serves an important role in promoting renal interstitial fibrosis, although the specific mechanism remains to be elucidated. A previous study revealed that the fibrotic effect of aldosterone was associated with the expression of allograft inflammatory factor 1 (AIF-1) in RAW264.7 macrophage cells, in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. However, the exact mechanism through which aldosterone promotes renal interstitial fibrosis remains unknown. In the present study, the effects of aldosterone on renal inflammatory cell infiltration, collagen deposition and the expression levels of AIF-1, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), AKT serine/threonine kinase (AKT), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), the oxidative stress factor NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX2) and nuclear transcription factor erythroid-related factor 2 (Nrf2) were assessed in normal rats, rats treated with aldosterone, rats treated with aldosterone and spironolactone and those treated with spironolactone only (used as the control). The effect of aldosterone on these factors was also investigated in the renal interstitium of unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) rats. Additionally, the AIF-1 gene was overexpressed and knocked down in macrophage RAW264.7 cells, and the effects of aldosterone on PI3K, AKT, mTOR, NOX2 and Nrf2 were subsequently investigated. The results showed that aldosterone promoted inflammatory cell infiltration, collagen deposition and the expression of AIF-1, PI3K, AKT, mTOR and NOX2, but inhibited the expression of Nrf2. In the UUO rats, aldosterone also promoted renal interstitial inflammatory cell infiltration, collagen deposition and the expression of AIF-1, NOX2, PI3K, AKT and mTOR, whereas the expression of Nrf2 was downregulated by aldosterone compared with that in the UUO-only group; the influence of aldosterone was counteracted by spironolactone in the normal and UUO rats. In vitro, aldosterone upregulated the expression levels of AKT, mTOR, NOX2 and Nrf2 in RAW264.7 cells compared with those in untreated cells. Suppressing the expression of AIF-1 inhibited the effects of aldosterone, whereas the overexpression of AIF-1 enhanced these effects in RAW264.7 cells. These findings indicated that aldosterone promoted renal interstitial fibrosis by upregulating the expression of AIF-1 and that the specific mechanism may involve AKT/mTOR and oxidative stress signaling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shale gas mainly exists in organic-rich shale in the form of free gas and adsorbed gas. Shale gas content has a direct impact on the productivity and life of the gas well, and is also an important indicator for areal selection and reservoir evaluation. Through the study of gas content experiments of shale gas, we can better guide the exploration and development of shale gas. According to the isothermal adsorption and desorption experiments of Wufeng-Longmaxi Formations in Jiaoshiba block of the Fuling shale gas field in Sichuan basin, China, 7 core samples from isothermal adsorption experiment and 30 core samples from desorption experiment were analyzed. The experimental results show that the isothermal adsorption experiment is an effective way to obtain Langmuir Volume (V L) and Langmuir Pressure (P L). The total gas content obtained from shale desorption experiment in the drilling site is mainly adsorption gas content, and the free gas content is relatively small. The desorption rate is different in different desorption stages, and the samples with higher total organic carbon (TOC) content have faster desorption rate and higher total desorption gas content. The carbon isotope value of methane gradually increases with the increase of desorption time. The results of methane isotope analysis in the desorption experiment are compared with the results of carbon isotope monitoring in the producing process. The findings reveal that after years of development in Jiaoshiba block of the Fuling shale gas field, the methane isotope in gas wells has basically remained unchanged, and the current gas production should be dominated by free gas. • Compare the analysis results of isothermal adsorption and desorption experiment. • The change law of carbon isotope with time in desorption process is studied. • The producing status is determined for the first time by using this law. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ha6 block is located in the north of the Tarim Basin. In this study, the characteristics of the Ordovician crude oil in the Ha6 block were analyzed by the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) method on the basis of exploration and development data. The results show that C7 compounds are produced by type-I kerogen. According to the comparison, the medium-molecular-weight hydrocarbon fingerprint of the Cambrian crude oil in the Zs block is consistent with that of the Ordovician crude oil in the Ha6 block, which means that their sources are the same. In the two blocks, biological marker compounds of crude oil are also very similar: C27R, C28R, and C29R steranes are in a V-shaped pattern; the Ts/Tm ratio and the content of tricyclic terpanes are both high; and the presence of a large amount of aromatized isoprenoid indicates the crude oil was generated in a strong-reducing environment. In addition, the crude oil single molecule carbon isotope curve is similar with that of Wells Zs1 and Zs5. Therefore, it is comprehensively concluded that the crude oil in the Ordovician reservoirs in the Repu area is mainly supplied by the Cambrian source rock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the Cambrian crude oil and source-rock geochemistry in the ZS well field of Tazhong area, Tarim Basin, was analyzed using the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MC). Moreover, the hydrocarbon source in the Tazhong was identified through oil–source correlation. The analysis of light hydrocarbons and biomarkers indicates that the Cambrian and Ordovician protokerogens are of marine sapropelic type formed in a strongly reducing environment. The result of oil–source correlation shows that both Cambrian crude oil in the ZS well field and Ordovician crude oil in the Tazhong area originated in the Cambrian–Lower Ordovician source rocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The RePu area is located in the Tarim Basin, China. Based on the exploration and development, this paper analyzed the characteristics of the Ordovician crude oil and the source rocks by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The Ordovician carbonatite reservoir oil in this area exhibited light component, rich chain hydrocarbon and poor aromatic hydrocarbon. The composition of C7 compound showed the advantage of n-heptane, which belonged to type I generative kerogen, and it was deep buried highly mature crude oil. The crude oil biomarker compounds all exhibited high content of long-chain tricyclic terpanes and high Ts/Tm values. The large presence of alkane aromatization compounds indicated strong reducing environmental conditions during crude oil formation. By comprehensive judgment that the main oil source of the Ordovician reservoirs in the RePu area was the Cambrian source rock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A well-aligned TiO 2 nanorod array film decorated with reduced graphene oxide(rGO/TNR) was constructed on fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) via a one-pot hydrothermal route with the aim of improving the photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical performances. The optimal ratio of components was investigated by changing the GO content that was added to the TiO 2 precursor solution. The structure, morphology, composition, optical, photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical properties of the rGO/TNR films were investigated in detail. The resulting rGO/TNR films had a unique microstructure, apparent red shift of the absorption edge and low recombination rate of photoinduced charge carriers. For the degradation of methylene orange (MO) under UV light, the 5 wt%-rGO/TNR film exhibited the best photogradation efficiency of 95.8% in 120 min compared to bare TNR, which had a photogradation efficiency of 41.4%. Moreover, the 5 wt%-rGO/TNR film also showed the highest photocurrent of 110 μA/cm2, which was 6 times higher than that of bare TNR (16 μA/cm2). The excellent performance of the rGO/TNR film may be caused by the synergistic effect of the extended photoresponse range, high adsorption of target molecules and effective photogenerated electron-hole separation via rGO nanosheets as electron collectors and transporters. Highlights • A novel rGO/TNR film was prepared by one-pot hydrothermal route. • Light adsorption and separation of electron-hole pairs were enhanced in rGO/TNR. • 5 wt%-rGO/TNR exhibited the improved photocatalytic efficiency for MO. • 5 wt%-rGO/TNR showed the highest photocurrent of 110 μA/cm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Local chemotherapy is an alternative therapeutic strategy that involves direct delivery of drugs to the tumor site. This approach avoids adverse reactions caused by the systemic distribution of drugs and enhances the tumor-suppressing effect by concentrating the drugs at the tumor site. Drug-loaded microspheres are injectable sustained-release drug carriers that are highly suitable for local chemotherapy. However, a complex preparation process is one of the main technical difficulties limiting the development of microsphere formulations. In this study, core-shell structured microspheres loaded with paclitaxel (PTX; with a core-shell structure, calcium alginate outer layer, and a poly (lactic acid-co-glycolic acid) copolymer inner layer, denoted as PTX-CA/PLGA-MS) were prepared using coaxial electrostatic spray technology and evaluated in vitro and in vivo. PTX-CA/PLGA-MS exhibited a two-stage drug release profile and enhanced anti-tumor effect in animal tumor models. Importantly, the preparation method reported in this study is simple and reduces the amount of organic solvent(s) used substantially. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To build the palaeo-redox environment model of the Longmaxi Formation shale during the Silurian Rhuddanian stage in Southern Sichuan Basin, China, 20 core samples taken from wells W201 and N1 were determined by carbon-sulphur analyser, X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry, and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) to test for the major and trace elements. Major elements test results shows that fragile mineral SiO2 component and degree of total pyritization in section A is greater than that of section B, demonstrating that the reducing property of palaeo-ocean during the section A depositional stage was more intense than that of section B. U-Th ratios indicate that the palaeo-ocean during the section A depositional stage was in a dysoxic environment, and the section B depositional stage was in an oxic to dysoxic environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel heterostructured titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) nanotree arrays (NTAs) were synthesized through a secondary hydrothermal process on a FTO substrate, and silver quantum dots (QDs) were loaded by a magnetron sputtering method for enhancing the photoelectrochemical (PEC) properties. The hierarchical TiO 2 NTAs composed of rutile phase nanorods (NRs) as trunks and anatase nanosheets as branches possess an enlarged specific surface area, which allows for enhanced QDs attaching. The hierarchical structure of the rutile/anatase junctions allows for a lower recombination rate of electron-hole (e-h) pairs and an accelerated electron transfer compared to TiO 2 NRs. After the decoration of Ag QDs, the absorption of light expanded to visible light range due to the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) of Ag QDs. The morphology, Raman spectral, optical properties, and PEC performance were investigated. The morphology is dendriform. The absorption edges of the samples show a slight red-shift and a SPR in the UV–vis absorption spectra. The SPR peaks range from 524 to 600 nm. The analysis of performance including linear voltammetry and transient photocurrent reveal that the photocurrent of Ag(15s)/TiO 2 NTAs is up to 140 times the photocurrent of pure TiO 2 NTAs, reaching 0.52 mV/cm 2 . All these results indicate the potential application of the novel TiO 2 NTAs in solar cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we report a three-dimensional (3D) hierarchical nanostructure as a surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) sensor by decorating Ag nanoparticles on a TiO 2 nanotree (TNT) array film via a simple two-step hydrothermal treatment and a magnetron sputtering technique for the first time. The sensitivity, recyclability, and uniformity of the SERS-active substrates were investigated using Rhodamine 6G (R6G) as the probe molecule. A detection limit of 1.0 × 10 −12 M R6G molecules and an enhancement factor of 5.29 × 10 5 were achieved on the 3D hierarchical TNT array film with 60 s Ag-sputtering. More importantly, the optimized TNT/Ag also exhibits excellent recyclability and uniformity. The relative standard deviation in the intensity of Raman vibration mode (1506 cm −1 ) was about 1.2%. Furthermore, the 3D hierarchical nanostructure was more efficient than the 1D nanostructure for SERS measurements. The excellent SERS performance is attributed to the formation of high-density hot spots for 3D nanostructure as well as the synergistic effects of electromagnetic and charge transfer. Moreover, the anatase@rutile mixed phase provides an additional charge transfer effect, which can lead to further enhancement of the Raman signal. The results show that the TNT/Ag nanostructure can be a promising candidate for SERS sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Longwangmiao Formation in Lower Cambrian is one of the key petroleum systems in Sichuan basin. The reservoir is well developed in the Longwangmiao Formation which was deposited in the restricted carbonate platform. It is indicated that the karstification occurred in the reservoir of Longwangmiao Formation during the Caledonian tectonic movement on the basis of seismology, petrology, sedimentology and geochemistry. Distinguishable markers of the paleo-karstification include: the lost strata and unconformable contact occurring between Middle-Upper Cambrian carbonates and Lower Permian Liangshan Formation; the occurrence of collapse breccias and fillings in caves and karrens; the evident difference between cave fill dolostones and matrix dolomite in the Sr/Ba ratio; and the log response of cavernous formations. The karstification lasted for a long time. According to the residual thickness between the top of Longwangmiao Formation and the bottom of the Permian, paleo-geomorphology during the Caledonian karstification had been recovered. In that time, Longwangmiao Formation was not directly exposed to the surface in central Sichuan basin; lots of meteoric fresh water flowed through faults and cracks from Gaotai Formation and a series of vertical dissolved caverns and karrens were formed. Meanwhile, due to the denudation window of Leshan-Longnvsi paleo-uplift lying in the west of the study area, meteoric fresh water flowed from the denudation window and the Longwangmiao Formation became a karstic confined aquifer. Under the pressure, diagenetic fluid migrated along the formation. Consequently, elongated dissolved pores and vugs formed and bedding karst reservoir developed in Longwangmiao Formation. The intensity of the karstification weakened with the distance from the paleo-uplift increasing, which indicates that the karstification was deeply influenced by the paleo-uplift. Finally, the supergene karstification model of Longwangmiao Formation has been established on the basis of the synthesis of the above-mentioned research results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sedimentary facies is an important factor influencing shale gas accumulation. It not only controlls hydrocarbon generation, but also affects reservoir characteristics and distribution. This paper discusses the Lower Silurian Longmaxi Formation in the south of the Sichuan Basin. Outcrop, core, drilling and logging data identify the sedimentary facies of the formation as continental shelf facies, which is divided into two subfacies: an inner shelf and an outer shelf subfacies. These two subfacies can be further divided into seven microfacies: muddy silty shallow shelf, calcareous silty shallow shelf, muddy limy shallow shelf, storm flow, muddy deep shelf, silty muddy deep shelf and contour current microfacies. Vertical and horizontal distribution of microfacies establishes a sedimentation model of the continental shelf facies. Combined with analization or calculation of geochemical, mineralogical, physical and gas-bearing properties of samples, sedimentary microfacies is evaluated using nine parameters: total organic carbon content, effective shale continuous thickness, vitrinite reflectance, kerogen type, mineral components, porosity, permeability, water saturation and gas content. The evaluation revealed that the most favorable facies for shale gas exploration and development are the muddy deep shelf and part of the silty muddy deep shelf microfacies, with TOC more than 2%, siliceous component over 50%, clay less than 30%, porosity more than 3%, water saturation lower than 40%, gas content greater than 2 m/t. These results provide a theoretical basis for deciston-making on the most promising areas for shale gas exploration in the Sichuan Basin and for marine shale gas exploration and development in South China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recently, a vision "bolt-on" EuroQol five-dimensional questionnaire (EQ-5D) was developed and tentative utility values (i.e., a "value set") for this new descriptive system were estimated.Objectives: To compare the discriminatory power of this bolt-on and standard utility-based EQ-5D health indices.Methods: Cross-sectional data on the (3-level) vision bolt-on EQ-5D were collected through face-to-face interviews with 500 and 336 individuals with and without visual impairment, respectively. To assess the discriminatory power of the vision bolt-on index relative to the standard EQ-5D index developed in the vision bolt-on valuation study, 16 pairs of mutually exclusive subgroups of individuals defined by the individuals' visual acuity and responses to the 14-item visual function questionnaire were compared pairwise. The absolute mean difference in the two index scores and the corresponding F statistic derived from the comparisons were used as measures of discriminatory power.Results: The absolute mean difference in the bolt-on index score was larger than that in the standard EQ-5D index score in 14 of the 16 comparisons. The bolt-on index score exhibited a larger F-statistic value than did the standard EQ-5D index score in all known-group comparisons, with the F-statistic ratio ranging from 0.415 to 0.770.Conclusions: The vision bolt-on EQ-5D appears to be more discriminative than the standard EQ-5D in measurement of vision problems. Future studies should investigate the extent to which the vision bolt-on item can increase the sensitivity of the EQ-5D to vision change in interventional studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Middle Permian Qixia Formation in the southwestern region of Sichuan (SW China) has experienced multiphase fluidisation, resulting in an unclear understanding of the reservoir reconstruction effect. In this study, a systematic analysis of the Qi2 member in Wulong Town was carried out by combining field outcrop petrology and geochemistry. The results demonstrated that multiple sets of crystalline dolomite-bioclastic limestone cycles were stacked vertically in the Qi2 member, accompanied by the development of fractures and karst channels. The dolomite was mainly composed of silty-fine dolomite (D1) and recrystallised dolomite (D2). Furthermore, obvious multiphase dolomitic cements (Cd1-Cd2) were present in the fractures and pores. Early karst is known to have lithologic mutation surface development and karst channel development at the top of several secondary cycles. The vadose silt dolomites (Cd1) having karst channels developed dull luminescence under cathode luminescence (CL). Both the geochemical indicators of elements and rare earth element (REE) content indicated dysoxic-oxic environmental conditions. The hydrothermal solution displayed tectonic carniole characteristics in the strata burial stage. Fractures and pores were filled with hydrothermal minerals such as coarse dolomites-saddle dolomites (Cd2, with some caused by recrystallisation of the Cd1 hydrothermal solution) and fluorites. Coarse dolomites-saddle dolomites developed dull-red luminescence with a bright-red rim under CL and their δ18OVPDB values were more negative than those of middle Permian limestone samples. Both the geochemical indicators of elements and REE content indicated the suboxic-anoxic environmental conditions. Karstification had minor constructive impact on the reservoir of the Qi2 member in Baoxing in southwestern Sichuan. Most products of karstification were distributed as fillings in channels. Aside from creating certain networked fractures, the hydrothermal solution was mainly filled with hydrothermal minerals along the fractures, pores and early karst channels. Karst and the hydrothermal solution mainly damaged the middle and upper parts of the middle Permian Qixia Formation in Southwest Sichuan. The impact of episodic fluid on the restoration of the carbonate reservoir was mainly restricted by channels for fluid migration and thickness differences among the reservoir. However, certain thick-layered and massive crystalline dolomite may hold promise for exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is indicated in this paper that the karstification occurred in Block 12 of Tahe oilfield during Early Hercynian stage on the basis of identification features obtained through the latest research on seismology, petrology, and geochemistry. Distinguishable markers of the paleo-karstification mainly include: the lost strata and unconformable contact occurring between Lower-Middle Ordovician carbonates and Lower Carboniferous Bachu Formation, the occurrence of collapse breccias and fillings in subsurface stream, the evident difference between cave-fill calcite and matrix carbonate in the Sr/Ba ratio, and the log response for cavernous formations. The paleo-geomorphology of Early Hercynian karstification can be divided into four units: karst highland, I- and II-level karst slope, and karst basin in Tahe area, and the Block 12 was basically located in II-level karst slope. Three karst cycles developed in the Block 12 according to Early Hercynian tectonism characterized by multiphase pulse-type uplift movement and three sets of cavernous formation formed. II- and III-level cavernous formations mainly developed in Block 12. The Early Hercynian karstification is distributed on the north area of the pinch-out line of Upper Ordovician Sangtamu Formation in the plane, and is vertically developed in the Lower-Middle Ordovician carbonates. The karstification is essentially controlled by the paleo-geomorphology and fault. Fissures and caves formed by the karstification are the keys to affecting reservoir quality. The evolution model of Early Hercynian karstification has been established on the basis of the synthesis of the above-mentioned research results. It can be divided into three stages: rapidly uplifting and denudation stage, three episodes of uplifting and karstification, and subsiding and reworking stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To assess the impact of visual impairment (VI) on health-related quality of life and to compare the health burden of VI and other health conditions in Singapore. Design Population-based cross-sectional study. Participants We studied the 10 009 adults (3353 Chinese, 3397 Indians, and 3259 Malays) who underwent a comprehensive eye assessment and completed the European Quality of Life-5 Dimensions (EQ-5D) questionnaire in the Singapore Epidemiology of Eye Disease Study. Methods We estimated the effects of VI, obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia on the EQ-5D index score using linear regression models and the association between VI and self-reported EQ-5D health problems using logistic regression models. We compared prevalence-based quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) loss associated with VI and other health conditions. For each condition, QALY loss was calculated for 100 000 persons in 1 year using associated reduction in EQ-5D index score estimated in regression analysis as disutility. Main Outcome Measures The EQ-5D index score and annual QALY loss. Results The EQ-5D index score decreased with increasing VI severity in all 3 ethnicities. For example, after adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics, the difference in EQ-5D index score between adults with bilateral severe VI and those without VI was −0.044 (95% confidence interval [CI], −0.089 to 0.001) in Chinese, −0.127 (95% CI, −0.237 to −0.017) in Indians, and −0.085 (95% CI, −0.148 to −0.022) in Malays. In all 3 ethnicities, VI was associated with reporting of problems in mobility (e.g., odds ratio [OR], 3.69 for Chinese with bilateral severe VI; 95% CI, 1.21–12.13) and usual activities (e.g., OR, 6.51 for Chinese with bilateral severe VI; 95% CI, 1.59–26.58). In Indians, VI was also associated with anxiety or depression (e.g., OR, 2.68 for bilateral severe VI; 95% CI, 1.11–6.50). The annual QALY loss associated with VI was 511.8 in Chinese, 608.8 in Indians, and 706.7 in Malays, greater than that associated with other health conditions examined in this study. Conclusions Visual impairment is associated with substantial health burden among Asians in Singapore. The relatively high burden of VI highlights the importance of VI prevention. The ethnic difference exhibited in this burden warrants further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium fluoride (NaF) is widely used in clinical dentistry. However, the administration of high or low concentrations of NaF has various functions in different tissues. Understanding the mechanisms of the different effects of NaF will help to optimize its use in clinical applications. Studies of NaF and epithelial cells, osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and periodontal cells have suggested the significant roles of fluoride treatment. In this review, we summarize recent studies on the biphasic functions of NaF that are related to both soft and hard periodontal tissues, multiple diseases, and clinical dentistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: SM22α, transgelin, has been revealed to be specifically expressed in glomerular epithelial cells and interstitial cells, according to the nature of the renal injury. In this study, quantitative analyses of SM22α positivity were performed to investigate the pathological significance of its expression. Methods: Kidney samples of adriamycin nephropathy underwent immunohistochemistry with a newly established anti-SM22α monoclonal antibody. The SM22α positivity was quantified by an image analyzer. The correlation of the histological values with biochemical data was investigated statistically. Microstructural localization of SM22α was studied by immunoelectron microscopy. Results: SM22α was expressed along the dense basal microfilaments of degenerating podocytes, and diffusely in interstitial cells. Both the extent and intensity of SM22α expression in glomerular and tubulointerstitial area were correlated with the deterioration of renal function and the severity of proteinuria. Stepwise multiple linear regression analysis revealed that the extent of its positivity in glomerular or tubulointerstitial area was the determinant of the amount of proteinuria or the deterioration of creatinine clearance (Ccr), respectively. Inversely, the deterioration of Ccr was the most important predictor of SM22α expression. Conclusion: SM22α expression in podocytes and interstitial cells represented the severity of proteinuria and the deterioration of renal function. SM22α expression in renal tissues might be a hallmark of kidney diseases. Copyright © 2011 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper addresses the problem of parallel dynamic security assessment applications from static homogeneous cluster environment to dynamic heterogeneous grid environment. Functional parallelism and data parallelism are supported by each of the message passing interface model and TCP/IP model. To consider the differences in heterogeneous computing resources and complexity of large-scale power system communities, a kernel-based multilevel algorithm is proposed for network partitioning. Since the bottleneck in distributed computation is low speed network communication, a bi-level latency exploitation technique is introduced for numerically solving system differential equations. The proposed grid-based implementation includes the core simulation engine, grid computing middleware, a Python interface and Python front-end utilities. Tests for a 39-bus network, a 4000-bus network and a 10,000-bus network are reported, and the results of these experiments demonstrate that the proposed scheme is able to execute the distributed simulations on computational grid infrastructure and provide efficient parallelism. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Periodontal inflammation is a common inflammatory disease associated with chronic inflammation that can ultimately lead to alveolar attachment loss and bone destruction. Understanding autophagy and pyroptosis has suggested their significant roles in inflammation. In recent years, studies of differentiated embryo-chondrocyte expressed genes 1 and 2 (Dec1 and Dec2) have shown that they play important functions in autophagy and in pyroptosis, which contribute to the onset of periodontal inflammation. In this review, we summarize recent studies on the roles of clock genes, including Dec1 and Dec2, that are related to periodontal inflammation and other diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Vanadium oxide films have been fabricated on Si3N4-film-coated silicon substrates by direct current reactive magnetron sputtering method. Conditions of deposition are optimized making use of parameters such as sputtering time, dc power, oxygen partial pressure and substrate temperature. X-ray diffraction indicates that the film is a mixture of VO2, V2O3, and V3O5. Four-probe measurement shows that the VO x thin film owns high temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR ∼−2.05%/°C) and suitable square resistance 18.40kΩ/□ (measured at 25°C), indicating it is a well candidate material for uncooled IR detectors. In addition, IR absorption in the wavelength of 2–16μm has been characterized. It is worth noting that the films are sputtered at a relatively low temperature of 210°C in a controlled Ar/O2 atmosphere. Compared to traditional craft, this method needs no post-anneal at high temperature (400–500°C). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A decoction is the most common form of Chinese herbal medicine dosing. An Angelica sinensis decoction was qualitatively and semi-quantitatively analyzed for 15 highly toxic pesticide residues by thermal desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (TD-ESI/MS) with a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer in multiple reaction monitoring mode without pretreatment. The instrument response was optimal and sensitivity was highest with the following parameters: thermal desorption temperature, 300 °C; 0.1% formic acid aqueous solution-methanol (1:1,V:V) solvent; syringe pump flow rate, 150 μL/h; and sampler length, 5 cm. Good linearity was attained within the appropriate linear range with the detection limits ranging from 0.01–0.05 mg/L. The same positive sample was verified for QuEChERS pretreatment coupled with liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry, showing good agreement with TD-ESI/MS. The newly developed method was demonstrated to be a rapid, green, and efficient analytical method for screening 15 highly toxic pesticide residues in Angelica sinensis decoctions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are abundant oil and gas resources in China's continental shale formations, and these formations often contain sandy lamina, tuffaceous lamina and carbonate lamina parallel to the bedding planes, resulting in complex geomechanical properties. During the drilling process, the mechanical weak surface structure inside the shale and the hydration effect of drilling fluid may easily cause wellbore instability, which reduces the safety and benefit of drilling. To explore the geomechanical properties of laminated shale and bedding shale after water absorption, a series of tests were conducted on the Chang 7 laminated shale and bedding shale in the Ordos Basin. The result indicates that the compressive strength and elastic modulus of laminated shale and bedding shale show a trend of decreasing first and then starting to drop as β (the angle between bedding/lamina and the direction of stress) keeps increasing, and laminated shale has stronger anisotropy, lower compressive strength and elastic modulus. The moisture content of laminated shale and bedding shale increases as the soaking time increases, which leads to a decrease in the compressive strength. Compared to bedding shale, laminated shale reaches water saturation faster and has a higher moisture content. Based on the macroscopic and microscopic images before and after shale hydration, it can be concluded that natural microfractures are easily formed at the interface between the lamina and shale matrix, and brittle minerals at the edges of natural microfractures are prone to detachment, thereby increase the hydration area and intensify the hydration process. Compared to bedding shale formations, laminated shale formations have a higher hole-size elongation ratio and are more prone to collapse according to on-site data. This study reveals the geomechanical properties of laminated shale under the dual influence of anisotropy and hydration, provides support for drilling design in such formations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Synthesize highly emissive MAPbBr 3 NPLs by a LARP method with short-chain ligands. • The continuous band at ~350 nm was confirmed in NPLs. • Efficient transfer from CB 2 to ES suppresses the nonradiative recombination. • Carrier transfer dynamics upon UV and blue excitation were revealed. Methylammonium lead bromide (MAPbBr 3) nanocrystals have attracted great attention for potential optoelectronic applications. We synthesized highly emissive MAPbBr 3 nanoplatelets (NPLs) by using a facile ligand assisted reprecipitation method with short-chain ligands. They exhibit an excitation-dependent photoluminescence (PL) quantum yield (QY) with a maximum value of 98% upon ultraviolet (UV) excitation. The femtosecond transient absorption and temperature-dependent PL spectra confirmed the existence of continuous band at ~350 nm and demonstrated that the PLQY of near unity originates from the efficient ultrafast energy-down-shift from this band to exciton state in N phase, which quenches nonradiative recombination via trap states. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The marine carbonate rock in the Changxing-Feixianguan Formation of Xuanhan-Daxian area, northeastern Sichuan, the Sichuan Basin holds abundant natural gas resource, where the dolomite includes two types, the one with original texture (grain dolomite, reef dolomite) and the one without original texture (idiomorphic to anhedral-crystal dolomite, porphyritic dolomite). The analysis on the isotopes of C, O, Sr and other geochemical features shows that the dolomitizing process happened in fluid rich in Mg2+ and lean in Ca2+ and brought in Fe2+, Mn2+ and took out Sr2+; with the rise of recrystallization, the Fe2+, Mn2+ contents tend to increase while δ18O PDB and Srcontent tend to decrease. According to the variation of 87Sr/86Sr and other geochemical features, it is considered that the dolomitizing fluid participating in the reservoir diagenesisis the high salinity sea water later than the end of Feixianguan stage, and the dolomitization takes place mainly through the multiple thermal convective cycle effect. The micritic dolomite is of evaporative dolomitization origin with the characteristics of high Sr2+, Na+ and low Mn2+ which reflects the open environment of the surface exposed in the quasi syngenetic period, while the reef dolomite is of high Mg/Ca dolomitizing fluid origin with the characteristics of lowSr2+, Na+ and Mn2+, whose diagenetic environment changed from near surface to shallow burial environment; crystalline dolomite is formed by metasomatism of low Mg/Ca dolomitizing fluid at deep burial depth and high temperature, with the increase of burial depth,in the high temperature and high pressure deep sealing system, its Fe2+ and Mn2+ elements increased while Sr2+ decreased. Through reconstruction of dynamic diagenesis-pore evolution, it is concluded that the low porosity of shallow beach grain dolomite is resulted from early compaction and medium-term cementation, yet the reservoir quality has been apparently improved by the later hydrocarbon dissolution; compared with shallow beach grain dolomite,the reef dolomite has smaller initial porosity, but stronger compressive capacity. The early compaction and medium-term cementation have less impact on the reef dolomite, and the later dissolution strength is slightly weaker than that of the granular dolomite, thus the change range of porosity is smaller than that of the grain dolomite; the micrite-silt dolomite mainly suffered porosity reduction caused by compaction, and the later burial dissolution and recrystallization are key to the quality improvement of this kind of dolomite reservoir. • There are two types of dolomite in the study area: the original fabric and without original fabric. • The high salinity marine source fluid of late period is involved in the dolomitization process of dolomite reservoir. • Dissolution is the key to the formation of high quality reservoir. • Compaction and cementation are the key factors to reduce the porosity of dolomite reservoir. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large volume of water is required in shale gas development, especially for large-scale hydraulic fracturing in horizontal wells. This study focuses on 334 shale gas wells in the largest production field Fuling in China. Models are formulated to estimate the water use at each stage of the development process, including pre-drilling preparation, drilling and cementing, fracturing, gas testing, production testing. Domestic water used by employee community of shale gas companies are also fully considered. The results show that the average fracturing water use per well was 34,756.0 m3 in Fuling, which accounted for 98% of the total water use. By the end of 2017, the total fracturing water used in Fuling was 1.09 × 107 m3, and a total of 2.28 × 106 m3 of flowback fluid was achieved with 2.16 × 106 m3 of water reused. In addtion, the domestic water used by the employee community was found to be 2.19 × 106 m3, which was equivalent to the water saved from the flowback fluid. China's special "development campaign" mode for shale gas extraction is the reason. The results improve the understanding of water use in China's shale gas development and also provide important implications for water management. Image 1 • The water use at each stage is analyzed. • Domestic water used by the employee community is fully considered. • Fracking water accounted for 98% of the total water consumption. • The reuse rate of fracking water increased to 67.26% in 2017. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The origin of the organic-rich shale in the Upper Ordovician Wufeng Formation and Lower Silurian Longmaxi Formation is complex and controversial. This paper reports the geochemical data of Wufeng-Longmaxi Formations in the Upper Yangtze region to restore the paleoenvironment and explore the accumulation mechanism of organic matter. The total organic carbon (TOC) content of the Wufeng Formation was relatively high, with an average of 2.86%. The Lower Longmaxi Formation showed the highest TOC content, with an average of 3.99%, and the upper part was a continuously low value with an average of 1.22%. The paleoproductivity proxies (Babio, Cu/Al, Ni/Al, Siexcess) showed that in the Katian and Rhuddanian-Aeronian Stages, the Upper Yangtze Sea had high primary productivity, indicating that organic matter accumulation was more affected by terrigenous influx and redox conditions. Al, Zr, and Zr/Al indicated that terrigenous influx was relatively high in the Kaitian-Hirnantian Stages, it was at a constant low in the Rhuddanian Stage, and increased again in the Aeronian Stage. The correlations between redox-sensitive trace elements (Mo, U, V) and TOC indicate that the organic-rich shale of the Wufeng Formation was deposited in the anoxic–euxinic environment. In the Longmaxi Formation, organic-rich shales formed in a more hypoxic environment, and overlying organic-lean shales formed in a suboxic environment. Therefore, the anoxic–euxinic conditions of the Late Ordovician Yangtze Sea were the main reason for the organic matter accumulation, but the high terrigenous influx caused by regression and/or structural controls diluted the organic matter to some extent. For the Early Silurian, a complete transgression–regression cycle changed terrigenous influx and redox conditions, resulting in significant differences in organic matter accumulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to effectively evaluate shale gas reservoirs with low porosity, extra-low permeability, and no natural productivity, dipole array acoustic logging, which can provide various types of information including P-wave slowness (DTC) and S-wave slowness (DTS), is widely used. As the dipole array acoustic logging tool has a larger investigation depth and is suitable for complex borehole environments, such as those with a high wellbore temperature, high drilling fluid column pressure, or irregular borehole wall, it has been mainly applied to the evaluation of lithology, gas potential, fractures, and stimulation potential in shale gas reservoirs. The findings from a case study of the Sichuan Basin in China reveal that the acoustic slowness, S-P wave slowness ratio (RMSC), and S-wave anisotropy of the dipole array acoustic logging can be used to qualitatively identify reservoir lithology, gas potential, and fractures. Using the relationship between DTC and the total porosity of shale gas reservoirs, and combined with the compensated neutron (CNL) and shale content (Vsh) of the reservoir, a mathematical model for accurately calculating the total porosity of the shale gas reservoir can be established. By using the relationship between the RMSC and gas saturation in shale gas reservoirs and tied with density log (DEN), a mathematical model of gas saturation can be established, and the determination of gas saturation by the non-resistivity method can be achieved, delivering a solution to the issue that the electric model is not applicable under low resistivity conditions. The DTS, DTC, and DEN of shale can be used to calculate rock mechanic parameters such as the Poisson's ratio (POIS) and Young's modulus (YMOD), which can be used to evaluate the shale stimulation potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the new generation of information technology, blockchain is characterized by a set of unique qualities and features in data storage and computing infrastructure, such as data traceability, data security, decentralized consensus, and decentralized process execution. These characteristics make it to be an important enabling technology for smart manufacturing, especially in product lifecycle management (PLM). In this paper, key features of blockchain are summarized, and its development history is analyzed first. Then, the challenges of PLM in data management and data security among multi-stakeholders are investigated, and a potential way to address these challenges by employing blockchain is discussed. An assessment framework is designed to evaluate the viability of applying blockchain in specific PLM scenarios. The application or potential application of blockchain in each section of PLM is studied in detail. Finally, both technical and non-technical challenges of applying blockchain in PLM are pointed out to achieve more effective applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: Pesticide isomers are widely available in agricultural production and may vary widely in biological activity, potency, and toxicity. Chromatographic and mass spectrometric analysis of pesticide isomers is challenging due to structural similarities. Methods: Based on liquid chromatography time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry, identification of cis–trans isomeric pesticides was achieved through retention time, characteristic fragment ions, and relative abundance ratio. Furthermore, theoretical and basic research has been conducted on the differences in characteristic fragment ions and their relative abundance ratios of cis–trans isomers. On the one hand, the cleavage pathways of six cis–trans isomers were elucidated through collision‐induced dissociation to explain different fragment ions of the isomers. On the other hand, for those with the same fragment ions but different abundance ratios, energy‐resolved mass spectrometry combined with computational chemical density functional theory in terms of kinetics, thermodynamics, and bond lengths was employed to explain the reasons for the differences in characteristic fragment ions and their abundance ratios. Results: A high‐resolution mass spectrometry method was developed for the separation and analysis of cis–trans isomers of pesticides in traditional Chinese medicine Radix Codonopsis, and six pesticide isomers were distinguished by retention time, product ions, and relative abundance ratios. The limits of quantification of the six pesticides were up to 10 μg/kg, and the linear ranges of them were 10–200 μg/kg, with coefficients of determination (R2) > 0.99, which demonstrated the good linearity of the six pesticides. The recoveries of the pesticides at spiked concentrations of 10, 20, and 100 μg/kg reached 70–120% with relative standard deviations ≤20%. Conclusions: It was demonstrated that the application of the method was well suited for accurate qualitative and quantitative analysis for isomers with different structures, which could avoid false‐negative results caused by ignoring other isomers effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enhancing the quality of junctions is crucial for optimizing carrier extraction and suppressing recombination in semiconductor devices. In recent years, metal halide perovskite has emerged as the most promising next-generation material for optoelectronic devices. However, the construction of high-quality perovskite junctions, as well as characterization and understanding of their carrier polarity and density, remains a challenge. In this study, using combined electrical and spectroscopic characterization techniques, we investigate the doping characteristics of perovskite films by remote molecules, which is corroborated by our theoretical simulations indicating Schottky defects consisting of double ions as effective charge dopants. Through a post-treatment process involving a combination of biammonium and monoammonium molecules, we create a surface layer of n-type low-dimensional perovskite. This surface layer forms a heterojunction with the underlying 3D perovskite film, resulting in a favorable doping profile that enhances carrier extraction. The fabricated device exhibits an outstanding open-circuit voltage (V OC) up to 1.34 V and achieves a certified efficiency of 19.31% for single-junction wide-bandgap (1.77 eV) perovskite solar cells, together with significantly enhanced operational stability, thanks to the improved separation of carriers. Furthermore, we demonstrate the potential of this wide-bandgap device by achieving a certified efficiency of 27.04% and a V OC of 2.12 V in a perovskite/perovskite tandem solar cell configuration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The treatment options for moderate to severe psoriasis (msPsO) in China have been greatly increased with the approvals of biologics. However, the unmet needs and treatment preferences of systemic treatments for msPsO in China remain unclarified. Methods: Fifty dermatologists and 300 patients with msPsO (41% with severe psoriasis) were surveyed for effectiveness, safety, treatment convenience, and treatment preferences (using a choice-based conjoint questionnaire). Descriptive statistics and conjoint simulation analyses were employed to summarize survey information and assess treatment preferences. Results: Both patients and dermatologists reported shorter treatment duration for oral drugs (2.7–6.2 months) than that for biologics (9.5–17.0 months). The most frequently reported treatment discontinuation reasons by the surveyed patients and dermatologists were unsatisfactory effectiveness (average 84.5%) for oral drugs and loss of efficacy over time (average 68.5%) for biologics. Commonly reported treatment inconveniences included regular lab tests for traditional oral drugs (average 71.5%) and administration assistance for biologics (average 58.0%). Injection site reactions (average 51.5%) and needle fear (average 35.5%) were frequently reported for biologics among the surveyed patients and dermatologists. Once-daily oral treatment was preferred over biweekly subcutaneous injection treatment when the two had comparable attributes (average in patients 87.1% vs. 12.9%; average in dermatologists 93.4% vs. 6.6%). Conclusions: Unmet needs of systemic treatments remain for msPsO in China. Once-daily oral treatment is preferred over biweekly subcutaneous injections to treat msPsO when other treatment attributes are comparable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The jet fire is a common type of fire accident in high-pressure hydrogen storage bottles. It is crucial to conduct research on the thermal radiation hazards resulting from on-board hydrogen storage bottle leaks, leading to jet fires within 35 MPa. Additionally, accurately and swiftly calculating the characteristic parameters of hydrogen jet flames, such as flame geometry and radiation heat flow, is of utmost importance. To study the jet fire hazard caused by high-pressure hydrogen storage cylinder leaks, a simplified model of the hydrogen storage cylinder was established using FLUENT software for numerical simulation analysis. The study analyzed the impact patterns of high-pressure hydrogen leakage jet flames under different scenarios, including leakage aperture, leakage pressure and ambient wind speed. The results demonstrate a positive correlation between the leakage aperture and pressure with the size of the jet flame and the extent of thermal radiation damage. The larger the leakage aperture and pressure, the larger the hydrogen jet flame size. The higher the peak value of the flame thermal radiation, the greater the hazard range. Additionally, the temperature of the stable axis of the jet flame rises with increasing leakage aperture. As the leakage pressure rises, the thermal radiation of the flame also increases. Conversely, as the ambient wind speed increases, the flame length, the burn radius, and the thermal radiation range decreases, but the high-temperature heat range expands. The empirical formula between flame length and leakage pressure and leakage aperture under different environmental wind speeds is obtained by data fitting, which can be used as a priori prediction of flame length under wind speed conditions. • Using FLUENT software to establish a three-dimensional physical model can effectively simulate the hydrogen jet flame. • It is more suitable for hydrogen storage equipment to study the jet flame of hydrogen storage bottle within 35 MPa. • The wind speed is added to the aperture and pressure conditions, and the simulation results are closer to reality. • The empirical formula between flame length and leakage pressure and nozzle diameter under ambient wind speed is obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Neuronal precursor cells expressed developmentally down‐regulated 4 (Nedd4) are believed to play a critical role in promoting the degradation of substrate proteins and are involved in numerous biological processes. However, the role of Nedd4 in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) remains unknown. This study aims to investigate the regulatory role of Nedd4 in the ICH model. Methods: Male C57BL/6J mice were induced with ICH. Subsequently, the levels of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration, iron content, mitochondrial morphology, as well as the expression of divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1) and Nedd4 were assessed after ICH. Furthermore, the impact of Nedd4 overexpression was evaluated through analyses of hematoma area, ferroptosis, and neurobehavioral function. The mechanism underlying Nedd4‐mediated degradation of DMT1 was elecidated using immunoprecipitation (IP) after ICH. Results: Upon ICH, the level of DMT1 in the brain increased, but decreased when Nedd4 was overexpressed using Lentivirus, suggesting a negative correlation between Nedd4 and DMT1. Additionally, the degradation of DMT1 was inhibited after ICH. Furthermore, it was found that Nedd4 can interact with and ubiquitinate DMT1 at lysine residues 6, 69, and 277, facilitating the degradation of DMT1. Functional analysis indicated that overexpression of Nedd4 can alleviate ferroptosis and promote recovery following ICH. Conclusion: The results demonstrated that ferroptosis occurs via the Nedd4/DMT1 pathway during ICH, suggesting it potential as a valuable target to inhibit ferroptosis for the treatment of ICH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper takes the thick and widely distributed crystal dolomite of Xixiangchi Formation, Upper Cambrian in Southeastern Sichuan basin as an example, the reservoir characteristics and main controlling factors of crystal dolomite have been analyzed systematically, and the genesis and reservoir formation mechanism of crystal dolomite have been discussed. It shows that the main reservoir rocks of crystal dolomite include powder crystalline dolomite and finely crystalline dolomites, and the intercrystal pores and dissolved intercrystal pores are the main reservoir spaces, with few dissolved vugs and fractures developed in the reservoir. The pore structure analysis shows that the throats of crystal dolomite reservoir are mainly lamellar, reflecting a good configuration between pores and throats, medium- low porosity and low permeability, representing typical porous-type reservoir. Dolomitization analysis indicates that the dolomitization occurred in the penecontemporaneous or early diagenetic stage. The degree of dolomitization decreased gradually from the top to the bottom in each sedimentary cycle, and distribution of dolomite in the study area shows that the content of dolomites decreases from the west to the east, which reflects the degree of dolomitization weakening eastward. Combined with the geochemical research of crystal dolomite, the C and O isotope data reflect the same characteristics of seawater during the late Cambrian. It indicates that the dolomitization might be related to the seepage-reflux of seawater in the early time. Recrystallization played an important role in the genesis of the crystal dolomite, because most of crystal dolomites remain residual granular texture. The intercrystal pores formed by seepage–reflux dolomitization acted as superior seepage channels for the reservoir transformation, and the recrystallization adjusted the previous pores and made them better, while the karstification was the key to the dissolved pore formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]