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Seismic waves are subject to velocity dispersion when they propagate in fluid-saturated porous media. In this work, we explore the velocity dispersion behavior of P- and SV-waves in multi-phase fluid-saturated porous reservoirs while taking into account the effects of multi-phase pore fluids on the effective viscosities that control the wave-induced fluid flow. The effective viscosities associated with the hydrocarbon saturation of a synthetic sandstone reservoir saturated with different pore fluid mixtures are calculated using the Refutas model. We then analyze the frequency-dependent velocity, dispersion variation rate and characteristic frequency for different fluid saturation cases by employing Chapman's dynamic equivalent-medium theory. The results demonstrate that the hydrocarbon proportions and types in multi-phase mixed pore fluids significantly affect the magnitude and characteristic frequencies of velocity dispersion features for both the P- and S-waves. The dispersion anomalies of SV-waves are in general larger than those of the P-waves. This indicates that the velocity dispersion anomalies of SV-waves are equally sensitive to fluid saturation as the P-waves and should not be neglected. The velocities at lower frequencies (e.g., 10 and 100 Hz) within the seismic frequency range show a more remarkable decrease with increasing hydrocarbon proportion than those at higher frequency (1000 Hz). The numerical examples help to improve the understanding of the frequency-dependent AVO inversion from seismic reflection data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shale oil generated by the lower member of the Lucaogou Formation, which was deposited under saline lacustrine conditions within the Jimusaer Sag of the Junggar Basin (NW China), is generally characterized by high density and viscosity. However, a strong spatial heterogeneity of physical properties is observed as well. In this paper, these spatial variations and their controlling mechanisms are evaluated from the perspective of the primary depositional environment, source rock thermal evolution and fractionation effects of primary migration. Based on a detailed organic petrological and geochemical characterization of the target interval within the key well JHBE, hydrous pyrolysis experiments conducted on representative source rock samples from well JHBE, as well as established methods of oil-source correlation subjected to oil samples from several regionally distributed producing shale oil wells, a predictive model of density and viscosity changes of crude oil was established. According to the findings of this study, the thermal evolution and sedimentary environment of source rocks are the main factors affecting the quality of crude oil, and the fractionation effect of primary migration has little effect. Crude oil density and viscosity at first increase up to peak oil maturity, followed by a decrease with further increasing thermal evolution of the source rock. Furthermore, if the source rocks experienced similar thermal histories, it was discovered that relatively low density and corresponding viscosity values are characteristic for crudes from source rocks which were formed in a relatively high salinity environment. In contrast, hydrocarbon generation of source rocks formed under relatively low salinity environments is slightly retarded in direct comparison, and the density and viscosity of the generated crude oil are both relatively high. This highlights that a detailed organic petrographical and geochemical evaluation of the target formation is crucial for the assessment of shale oil potential and production sweet spots in alginite-dominated lacustrine sedimentary environments. • Oil-source correlation of the lower member in the Lucaogou Formation are conducted. • Crude oil density and viscosity control by thermal evolution are discussed from a new sight. • The higher salinity is, the lower density of crude oil is. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shallow‐delta sedimentary systems receive both terrestrial and marine organic matter. As oil and gas exploration activities determine that the source rocks of the deep‐water area of the Qiongdongnan Basin, northern South China Sea, are generally rich in and even dominated by terrestrial organic matter, this has led many researchers to examine the rules governing terrestrial organic matter enrichment in shallow‐delta sea sedimentary systems. However, the deep burial of source rocks in deep‐water areas and the relatively small amount of drilling undertaken have greatly restricted the study of these rules. In this study, the 'forward modeling' research method was used to observe and analyze the deposition and preservation of terrestrial organic matter through flume experiments, where the depositional results were carefully depicted and sampled. The total organic carbon content of selected samples was measured and when combined with qualitative observations and quantitative comparison results, the dominant enrichment areas of terrestrial organic matter were identified. The experimental results show that the overbank parts of the delta front, the dune countercurrent surface, the low‐lying parts, the delta front slope area and the shallow‐prodelta sea area are where terrestrial organic matter is predominantly enriched. This provides an important basis and guidance for the prediction of the development areas of marine source rocks with terrestrial input in the deep‐water areas of the Qiongdongnan Basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Although widely used in clinical practice, vertebral augmentation procedure (VAP) for osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture (OVCF) is not supported. Recently, the effect of recombinant human parathyroid hormone (1–34) (rhPTH) has been paid great attention for its efficacy in anti‐osteoporosis and bone union. This study aims to explore the outcome of rhPTH on acute OVCF and compare it with VAP to clarify its therapeutic advantages. Methods: The retrospective study comprised 71 acute OVCF patients from January 2015 to March 2020: 22 received rhPTH treatment (rhPTH group) and 49 underwent VAP (VAP group). The rhPTH group was 15 women and seven men with an average of 76.18 years, and the VAP group were 35 women and 14 men with an average of 73.63 years. The thoracic/lumbar vertebrae were 14/8 in the rhPTH group and 29/20 in the VAP group. The average follow‐up period was 14.05 months in the rhPTH group and 13.82 months in the VAP group. The two groups were assessed regarding the visual analog score (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), OVCF bone union, bone mineral density (BMD), kyphotic angle (KA), anterior and posterior border height (ABH and PBH, respectively), adverse events and the health‐related quality of life assessed by short form‐36 health survey scores (SF‐36). Categorical variables were analyzed by chi‐square test and continuous variables between groups were analyzed by independent samples t‐test or Mann–Whitney U test according to the normality. Results: During the follow‐up, the VAS was significantly lower in the rhPTH group than in the VAP group at month 3 (0.39 ± 0.6 vs 0.68 ± 0.651) (p = 0.047), month 6 (0.45 ± 0.60 vs 2.18 ± 1.22) (p < 0.001), and month 12 (0.45 ± 0.60 vs 2.43 ± 1.49) (p < 0.001). At month 12, the ODI was significantly lower in the rhPTH group (18.59 ± 3.33%) than in the VAP group (28.93 ± 16.71%) (p < 0.001). Bone bridge was detected on sagittal computed tomography images of all fractured vertebrae in the rhPTH group. The BMD was significantly higher in the rhPTH group (87.66 ± 5.91 Hounsfield units [HU]) than in the VAP group (68.15 ± 11.32HU) (p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in the changes in KA, ABH, and PBH between groups (all p > 0.05). The incidence of new OVCF was significantly lower in the rhPTH group than in the VAP group (p = 0.042). All scores of SF‐36 were significantly higher in the rhPTH group than in the VAP group (all p < 0.05). Conclusion: In acute OVCF patients, rhPTH was better than VAP in increasing spinal BMD to promote OVCF healing, reduce new OVCF, and improve back pain, physical ability, and health‐related quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cell wall glycine‐rich proteins (GRPs) play important roles in plant growth and development, as well as in the effective prevention of plant diseases. Although members of the GRP family have been identified in several plants, a comprehensive analysis of GRPs has not been reported in Solanaceae plants. In this study, 43 GRPs were identified from Solanum tuberosum (named StGRPs), Solanum lycopersicum, Capsicum annuum and Nicotiana attenuata. The comparative study of these GRPs showed that they were conservative in physical properties, structures of genes and motifs. The expression patterns of Solanum tuberosum StGRPs under biotic and abiotic stress were analysed and presented very diverse profiles in responding to ABA, IAA, GA3, high salinity, pathogen and heat stress. Some StGRPs were preferentially and specifically expressed during the development of petioles and tubers, in which the expression of StGRPs was more sensitive to ABA confirmed by qRT‐PCR analysis. The strongly up‐regulated expression of StGRP1 induced by Ralstonia solanacearum indicated the positive role involved in the resistance against the bacterial wilt pathogen. Tissue localization analyses by Digoxin/fluorescence in situ hybridization indicated that the expression of StGRP1 was vascular‐specific and associated with cell wall thickening in vascular bundles and interfascicular fibres after R. solanacearum inoculation. These findings may provide a new insight into the roles of GRPs in adaptation to diverse stresses and in resistance to R. solanacearum in potatoes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Continental faulted basins are widely distributed in eastern China. Many of these basins, in which the faults block oil and gas reservoirs, have been explored. The heterogeneity of the reservoirs in fault block is very strong, shich restricts the further efficient development of these kinds of oil and gas fields. In this study, porosity and permeability tests, the use of thin sections of rock, mercury injection experiment and CT scan were used to investigate reservoir quality characteristics and control factors. The results showed that the content of quartz, feldspar, and debris in rock had a significant control function on the quality of the reservoir. Reservoir performance improved with increase of quartz and feldspar content, and worsened with increase of debris content. Taking the Ek1 reservoir in the Wang Guantun area as the specific research object, we developed the following understanding. On the one hand, the main compaction in the study area was mechanical compaction. When the compaction rate was greater than 60%, the porosity and permeability were inversely proportional to the compaction rate. On the other hand, dissolution pores were relatively developed in the study area, and the main types of dissolution were intragranular and intergranular dissolution pores. When the surface porosity of the dissolution pore was over 9.2%, porosity increased significantly the increase of dissolution surface porosity. This showed that dissolution surface porosity had greatly improved the reservoir porosity in this range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Novel CRB vibration model considering contact stiffness and natural frequency characteristics. • The outer raceway spalling fault with varying sizes is simulated in this paper, considering spalling defect extents and load distribution. • This paper showed that the effects of contact stiffness variation on natural frequency characteristics by the statistical distribution of fault feature signals. The modeling of early spalling defects in cylindrical roller bearings (CRB) is a challenging problem in fault diagnosis. Due to the absence of prominent "drop-in" excitation, accurately describing the signal characteristics of the early failure mechanism model for CRBs becomes difficult. In this paper, the failure of cylindrical roller bearings due to spalling caused by fatigue is a frequent occurrence. The previous defect models have been centered on sharp-edge impact between the roller and spalling defects. However, they have not provided an adequate depiction of the variation in contact stiffness caused by roller-fault interaction. In this paper, a novel CRB vibration model that takes into account contact stiffness and natural frequency characteristics is proposed. The model considers both the load redistribution and contact stiffness variation caused by spalling defects. This new model provides a spring-damper system based on contact stiffness between the roller and raceway, enabling an estimation of the CRB system's natural frequency characteristics. The outer raceway spalling fault with varying sizes is simulated in this paper, taking into account spalling defect extents and load distribution. The vibration response of the fault signal model is investigated. The simulation results show that the load and contact stiffness will change as the roller passes through the defect zone. Furthermore, the statistical distribution of fault feature signals demonstrates the effects of contact stiffness variation on natural frequency characteristics. The experiments given in this paper have verified the simulation results of the proposed signal model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lacustrine shale, represented by the Middle Permian Lucaogou Formation in the Jimsar Depression in the eastern Junggar Basin, has become one of the main areas of shale oil exploration in China. In this study, we used 137 samples of shale from the Lucaogou Formation, drawn from 14 wells in the Jimsar Depression, to investigate their characteristics of pyrolysis, organic carbon and soluble organic matter content, biomarkers, organic microscopic composition, and vitrinite reflectance. Basin simulation and hydrocarbon generation thermal simulation experiments were also conducted in a closed system. The results of this study indicate that the input of an algae source was dominant in the source rocks of the Lucaogou Formation, that the water in which the rocks were deposited had high salinity and strong reducibility, and that the source rocks were oil-prone. The Lucaogou source rocks generally had good hydrocarbon generation capability, but showed significant heterogeneity. At the end of the Cretaceous period, the shales in the Lucaogou Formation entered the oil-generation window as a whole. Currently, the shales of the Lucaogou Formation are generally in the high-maturity stage in the deep part of the depression, producing a large amount of high-maturity oil and condensate gas, while those in the shallow part have relatively low maturity and can only produce a large amount of conventional crude oil. The maximum crude oil generation rate of the Lucaogou Formation shale obtained from the thermal simulation results was 220.2 mg/g of the total organic carbon (TOC), and the maximum hydrocarbon expulsion efficiency was estimated to be 59.3–76.4%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MYB transcription factors are crucial in regulating stress tolerance and expression of major genes involved in flavonoid biosynthesis. The functions of MYBs is well explored in a number of plants, yet no study is reported in Apocynum venetum. We identified a total of 163 MYB candidates, that comprised of 101 (61.96%) R2R3, 6 3R, 1 4R and 55 1R. Syntenic analysis of A. venetum R2R3 (AvMYBs) showed highest orthologous pairs with Vitis vinifera MYBs followed by Arabidopsis thaliana among the four species evaluated. Thirty segmental duplications and 6 tandem duplications were obtained among AvMYB gene pairs signifying their role in the MYB gene family expansion. Nucleotide substitution analysis (Ka/Ks) showed the AvMYBs to be under the influence of strong purifying selection. Expression analysis of selected AvMYBs under low temperature and cadmium stresses resulted in the identification of AvMYB48 , AvMYB97 , AvMYB8 , AvMYB4 as potential stress responsive genes and AvMYB10 and AvMYB11 in addition, proanthocyanidin biosynthesis regulatory genes which is consistent with their annotated homologues in Arabidopsis. Tissue specific expression profile analysis of the AvMYBs further supported the qPCR analysis result. MYBs with higher transcript levels in root, stem and leaf like AvMYB4 for example, was downregulated under the stresses and such with low transcript level such as AvMYB48 which had low transcript in the leaf was upregulated under both stresses. Transcriptome and phylogenetic analyses suggested AvMYB42 as a potential regulator of anthocyanin biosynthesis. Thus, this study provided valuable information on AvR2R3-MYB gene family with respect to stress tolerance and flavonoid biosynthesis. • Apocynum venetum is an important medicinal and bast fiber plant. • A. venetum R2R3 MYB showed highest orthologous pairs with Vitis vinifera and Arabidopsis thaliana. • Expression analysis of selected AvMYB pointed AvMYB48 , AvMYB97 , AvMYB8 , AvMYB4 as potential stress responsive genes. • AvMYB10 and AvMYB11 in addition to to regulating stress function in proanthocyanidin biosynthesis. • AvMYB42 is according to transcriptome and phylogenetic analysis a potential regulator of anthocyanin biosynthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ramie is a valuable crop that produces high-quality fibers and holds promise in ecological management and potential therapeutic properties. The damage of submergence during the fertile period seriously affects the growth of ramie. This study used transcriptomics and UPLC-QTOF/MS-based lipidomics analysis to reveal the lipids remodeling and stress adaptation mechanism in ramie response to submergence. The results of subcellular distribution showed that lipids in ramie leaf cells mostly aggregate in the inter-chloroplast cytoplasm to form lipid droplets under submergence stress. High-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) and lipidomics analysis showed that the composition and content of lipids in ramie leaves significantly changed under submergence stress, and the content of fatty acids (FAs) gradually accumulated with the extension of the submergence treatment time. Further analysis revealed that the content of 18:3 (n3) Coenzyme A (C18:3-CoA) increased significantly with the prolongation of submergence stress, and the exogenous addition of C18:3-CoA activated the expression of hypoxia-responsive marker genes such as BnADH1 , BnPCO2 , BnADH1 , and BnPDC1. These results suggest that the ramie lipid metabolism pathways were significantly affected under submergence, and the C18:3-CoA may act directly or indirectly on the hypoxia-responsive genes to activate their transcriptional activities, thereby enhancing the tolerance of ramie to submergence stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ramie (Boehmeria nivea L.) is an ideal crop for cadmium (Cd) pollution remediation due to its advantages of both remediating and utilizing, however, it is mainly carried out in dry land, whose restoration effect is relatively slow. Previously, we found that the ramie plants cultivated by hydroponics has several tens of times higher Cd absorption capacity than that planted in soil. However, the issue of how to use hydroponic ramie to remediate Cd contaminated paddy fields needs to be addressed. In this study, we innovatively developed the ramie floating island technology and studied its remediation model on simulated Cd contaminated paddy fields. Different ramie varieties were used to compare the remediation effects, and the results showed that there were differences in adaptability among different varieties on floating islands and the remediation ability of the tested ramie varieties was Z2 > Z1 > Z3. Different harvested times were set to analyze the effects of harvested model on remediation, and it was suggested that multiple harvests can be carried out according to the plant growth status of ramie floating island after 30 days of remediation to achieve better remediation effects. Low water level height (5 cm) of paddy field was beneficial for the accumulation of Cd in the roots, but considering the adaptability of various ramie varieties and the effect of long-term restoration, it was recommended that the water level height of 20 cm for the cultivation of ramie floating island was more suitable. Moreover, we found that low concentration of citric acid (≤2 g L−1) or polyaspartic acid (≤3 g L−1) can improve the remediation effects for ramie floating island. Our study opens up a novel approach for ramie to remediate heavy metal pollution and provides a technical reference for water body Cd remediation by plants. [Display omitted] • Ramie varieties showed different adaptability on Cd contaminated paddy field. • A novel repair model of ramie floating island has been successfully established. • Multiple harvests can be carried out to achieve better remediation effects. • 20 cm of water height for the cultivation of floating island ramie was suitable. • Heavy metal activators can improve the repair effects for ramie floating island. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abscisic acid (ABA) is known as an important hormone regulating plant stress resistance, such as salt, drought and heavy metal resistance. However, the relationship between ABA and cadmium (Cd) enrichment in ramie (Boehmeria nivea L.) is still unclear to date. This study aimed to reveal the effect of ABA on Cd enrichment in ramie, and we received the following results: (1) Under Cd treatment, the Cd uptake of ramie increased with the increase of Cd concentration, but the chlorophyll content decreased. Under Cd treatment, the ABA content was highest in roots of ramie, followed by that in old leaves, and lowest in new leaves. Long-time treatment of high Cd concentration reduced the ability of endogenous ABA biosynthesis. (2) Spraying ABA on ramie plants (SORP) and adding ABA directly to the culture solution (ADCS) with low concentration can promote the growth of ramie and increase the amount of Cd uptake, and the effect of SORP is better. (3) The molecular reason for the decrease of chlorophyll content due to Cd stress, may be resulted from the down-regulated expression of the chlorophyll synthesis genes (BnPAO and BnNYC1) and the up-regulated expression of the chlorophyll degradation genes (BnCHLH, BnCHLG, BnHAP3A and BnPPR1). The elevated ABA content in ramie plants may due to the up-regulated expression of the ABA synthesis related genes (BnABA1, BnNCED3, and BnNCED5) and the genes (BnABCG40, BnNFXL2, BnPYL9, BnGCR2, BnGTG1, BnBGLU1, BnUTG1, BnVHAG1 and BnABI5) that encoding ABA transport and response proteins, which was consistent with the enhance the Cd uptake in ramie. Our study revealed the relationship between ABA and Cd uptake in ramie, which provided a reference for improving the enrichment of Cd in ramie. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work systematically studied the significant geochemical heterogeneity of natural gases inside and outside the buried hills of the Xinglongtai area, West Sag, Liaohe Depression, Bohai Bay Basin. The gases inside the buried hills are thermogenic, whereas those outside the buried hills are dominated by secondary microbial gases, with a biodegraded thermogenic gas contribution. The humic- and sapropelic-type gases are primarily derived from the Es 3 and Es 4 source rocks, respectively. The gases inside the buried hills are primarily derived from the Es 3 source rocks, and decreasing δ13C 1 and C 1 /C 1-5 ratio towards the northeast are a result of the decreasing maturity of the adjacent Es 3 source rocks. The different geochemical characteristics of the gases outside the buried hills results from the relative contribution of secondary microbial and thermogenic gases, the maturity and organic type of the thermogenic gas, and biodegradation. In the Xinglongtai area, secondary microbial gas is an important shallow Paleogene exploration target, and the natural gas inside the buried hills is primarily enriched near the Es 3 source rocks. The findings and methods of this work are significant for studies on the origin and accumulation of natural gas inside and outside the buried hills in other petroliferous sags of the Bohai Bay Basin. Considering the geological and geochemical significance of the spatial geochemical heterogeneity of natural gas is essential for researching the origin and accumulation mechanism of gas and oil in complex exploration areas with multiple source rocks. • Sapropelic- and humic-type gases are from Es 4 and Es 3 source rocks, respectively. • Decreasing δ13C 1 and C 1 /C 1-5 inside buried hills results from varied maturities. • iC 4 /C 2 , 13C 1 and 13C 2 reveal mixing of secondary microbial and thermogenic gas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • 30 β -carboline-(phenylsulfonyl)furoxan hybrids were designed and synthesized. • Target molecules showed potent anti-breast cancer proliferative activity. • 13h displayed potent antiproliferative activity against MDA-MB-231 cells. • 13h suppressed the migration and invasion of MDA-MB-231 cells. • ROS generation and activating DNA damage involved in 13h -induced apoptosis. The cytotoxicity properties of the β -carboline alkaloids have been broadly investigated. However, the potential application of β -carbolines was hindered due to the moderate activity in cancer. In the present study, thirty β -carboline-(phenylsulfonyl)furoxan hybrids (11a–j , 12a–j and 13a–j) were designed and synthesized through esterification and amidation reaction strategy, and their inhibitory activities against the human breast cancer cell lines MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 were evaluated by CCK-8 assay. Biological evaluation presented that the most promising amide derivative 13h , substituted with p -methoxyphenyl group at position 1, generated high concentration of NO and evidently depressed the MCF-7 (IC 50 = 0.89 μM) and MDA-MB-231 (IC 50 = 0.62 μM) cells proliferation. Particularly, the wound healing and transwell assays demonstrated that 13h significantly inhibited the migration and invasion of MDA-MB-231cells. Furthermore, the preliminary mechanisms studies indicated that 13h induced G2/M phase arrest and apoptosis possibly causing by ROS accumulation and ROS-mediated DNA damage. Based on these considerations, 13h may be a promising antimetastatic agent for breast cancer, which is noteworthy for further exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Secondary pores are the main reservoir space and transportation channel of oil and gas in reef limestone reservoir. At present, the main method of calculating secondary porosity is restricted by the morphological characteristics of porosity spectrum, regional artificial influence, and accuracy of calculation. We present a new method for calculating secondary porosity of reef limestone reservoir by the nuclear magnetic resonance T 2 spectrum which is calibrated by casting thin section. We begin with analyzing and determining the high correlation between the surface porosity of casting thin section and the total porosity. The objective is confirming the feasibility of the method of calculating secondary porosity by using thin-section information calibrate. Then, we use the surface porosity of thin section as the calibrating data and find the T 2 relaxation time corresponding to the best correlation between the secondary porosity and the secondary surface porosity of casting thin section, that is, the T 2 cutoff value of secondary porosity, through the Monte Carlo method. Finally, we calculate the secondary porosity by using the functional relationship between the secondary surface porosity and the surface porosity. The statistical analysis shows that the method of calculating secondary porosity effectively improves the calculation accuracy of secondary porosity. The secondary porosity calculation results have a high correlation with the reservoir productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The shale oil of the Lucaogou Formation in the Jimusaer Sag of the Junggar Basin was divided into two sweet spots for exploration and development. Crude oil in the upper and lower sweet spots comes from the upper and lower source rocks. After years of exploration, it has been found that the crude oil in the lower sweet spot has worse physical properties than that of the upper sweet spot. In this study, through the physical and geochemical analysis of crude oil in the upper and lower sweet spots, combined with the organic petrological observation of the upper and lower source rocks, the cause of the poor physical properties of the crude oil in the lower sweet spot has been identified. n-Alkanes in the saturated hydrocarbons of crude oil in the upper and lower sweet were complete while odd-to-even predominance was evident, indicating that the poor physical properties of the crude oil are unrelated to biodegradation. In addition, the correlation between the biogenic parameters and the physical properties of crude oil was analyzed, finding that the difference in crude oil is mainly related to the composition of biogenic precursors of upper and lower source rocks. Combined with organic petrological observation, the lower source rock was found to be rich in telalginite (green algae), which is therefore the primary reason for the difference in physical properties. In comparing results from the characteristics of crude oil biomarkers from both the upper and lower sweet spots, crude oils in the upper sweet spot are similar to each other, indicating that the enrichment of crude oil has experienced a certain migration. In contrast, the differences in biomarkers between the crude oils of the lower sweet spot were relatively large and changed regularly with depth, suggesting the self-generated and self-stored characteristics of crude oil enrichment. At the same time, it was found that the crude oil in the lower sweet spot is also affected by the maturity of adjacent source rocks under the condition of a consistent parent material source. Overall, it was determined that the lower the maturity of source rocks, the poorer the physical property of the crude oil produced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The World Health Organization (WHO) has noted that allergic diseases are a major health problem of the 21st century. Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a type I allergic disease characterized by nasal mucosa and immune system abnormalities. AR is mediated by various inflammatory cells and is mainly characterized by altered secretion of cytokines. Thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) and the interleukin‐33/stimulation‐expressed gene 2 (IL‐33/ST2) signaling pathway are cytokines that play pivotal roles in many inflammatory responses and allergic reactions. There have been reports of interactions between the 2 pathways in many diseases. Hypoxia is a common pathologic manifestation of AR. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship and expressions and biologic functions of TSLP and IL‐33/ST2 in AR, and also to determine the effects of hypoxia on these cytokines. Methods: The rat nasal mucosal epithelium was obtained from Wistar rats. Cells were cultured in groups under hypoxia and normoxia conditions. Identification of rat nasal epithelial cell (RNEpC) and protein expressions was done by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence methods. Cell proliferation and migration were examined using the cell counting kit‐8 (CCK‐8) and Transwell kit. Detection of apoptosis was tested using a fluorescence apoptosis kit. Enzyme‐linked immunoassay (ELISA) and Western blot analysis ELISA were used to measure cell secretion and protein expressions. For these experiments, TSLP was knocked down by lentivirus transfection and IL‐33 blocked with its antagonist. Results: TSLP, IL‐33, and ST2 expressions were significantly higher in nasal mucosa epithelial cells from AR rats than in those from control rats. Hypoxia further promoted their expression. Increased TSLP and IL‐33/ST2 promoted cell proliferation, inhibited cell apoptosis, and enhanced cell migration. In addition, the downregulation of TSLP expression effectively attenuated expression of the IL‐33/ST2 axis and, through use of IL‐33 antagonists, could also reduce TSLP expression, a synergistic effect more obvious under hypoxia. Conclusion: Our data indicate that TSLP and IL‐33/ST2 signaling pathways interact with each other in the pathogenesis and pathologic development of AR. TSLP inhibition is a key factor in AR treatment. Inhibiting hypoxia‐induced pathologic processes could represent a therapeutic effect by inhibiting IL‐33/ST2 expression via downregulating TSLP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research reveals the depositional environment can affect the organic matter enrichment. The major elements and trace elements are important indexes to reconstruct the depositional environment of Ordovician subsalt marine formations in the central-east Ordos Basin, combining organic parameters with inorganic parameters. Based on the microfacies, the study area is divided into gypsum-bearing dolomite flat, dolomite flat, gypsum-salt depression and limy dolomite flat. The higher Ti/Al ratios and the characteristics of trace elements show that there were detrital inputs in the sedimentation process. When the amounts of detrital inputs are large enough, they can obviously adsorb the elements and dilute the organic matter. Therefore, gypsum-bearing dolomite flat and dolomite flat have lower organic matter accumulation with higher detrital input. Lower P/Ti and Ba excess indicate the deficiency of paleoproductivity. Sr/Ba is higher than 0.6, indicating marine-continental transitional and marine environment. Even the paleosalinity is higher, previous researches have demonstrated the descending sea levels and strong hydrodynamic conditions are unfavorable for organic matter preservation. Lower paleoclimate index "C" and higher Sr/Cu illustrate arid and hot conditions. The value of V/(V + Ni) suggests that the limy dolomite flat is under the oxidizing conditions, and the three other environments are reductive to a certain extent. The Mo-U covariation shows that the water body is under strongly restricted conditions. These conditions are not conducive to biological growth and the accumulation of organic matter, causing low ancient productivity. The partial correlation analysis shows: the organic matter enrichment is affected by multiple factors; paleoproductivity, paleosalinity and paleoclimate have greater influence on the results of organic matter enrichment, and detrital input and oxidation conditions can decrease the paleoproductivity, indicating multiple factors are interrelated and interact with each other. • Major and trace elements are used to reconstructs the depositional environment of four types microfacies. • Paleoproductivity, paleosalinity and paleoclimate have greater influence on the organic matter enrichment. • Depositional environment has direction relationship with low paleoproductivity, causing low organic matter enrichment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, highly transparent and conductive In 2 O 3 films were deposited by reactive high power impulse magnetron sputtering from a metal target without thermal assistance. Film deposition was performed at room temperature using oxygen flow rates selected based on target voltage hysteresis, and the obtained films were compared in terms of structure and electrical/optical properties. Notably, the use of high plasma density, peak power, and ionization efficiency resulted in the formation of highly crystalline films featuring a small grain size and a columnar structure with a preferred orientation. The minimal carrier concentration of 1.6 × 1021 cm−3 was observed for films deposited in metallic mode; the carrier mobility of these films increased from 23 to 51 cm2 V−1 s−1 as the oxygen flow rate increased from 7 to 10 sccm. Moreover, the oxygen flow rate significantly affected the conductivity of In 2 O 3 films, which ranged from semiconductor-like to insulator. The visible-light transmittance of In 2 O 3 films exceeded 85% when oxygen flow rate larger than 7sccm. The absorption edge of as-prepared films was located close to 350 nm and shifted to lower wavelengths with increasing oxygen flow rate, which was explained by the Burstein–Moss effect. The infrared transmittance of In 2 O 3 films was strongly dependent on the deposition mode. In agreement with Drude's theory, films deposited in transition mode at room temperature were highly transparent and conductive, which was ascribed to the use of controlled In:O ratios, whereas films deposited in other modes were shown to exhibit either excellent conductivity (metallic mode) or good optical transmittance (poisoning mode). Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis (DLSS) is a condition in which the body is held in a poor posture for a long period of time, resulting in a change in the stress structure of the lumbar spine that causes degenerative changes in the muscles of the spine. The sagittal balance of the spine and pelvis and the degeneration of the paravertebral muscles have been the focus of recent research. To explore the relationship between paraspinal muscle degeneration and changes in spine-pelvic sagittal parameters in patients with DLSS, 95 patients with DLSS (experimental group) and 70 healthy volunteers (control group) hospitalized in the Ordos Central Hospital between January 2020 and January 2022 were included as study subjects. All patients underwent lumbar magnetic resonance imaging and spinal X-ray using uniform criteria. The correlation between paravertebral muscle parameters and sagittal-pelvic sagittal parameters in patients with DLSS was obtained from two imaging examinations, and the data were organized and grouped in order to explore the correlation between these parameters. There was no significant difference in the general data between the two groups (P>0.05). In the L4-5 DLSS patient group, the ratio of fat infiltration in the right erector spinae (ES) muscle was negatively correlated with thoracic kyphosis (TK) (r=-0.536; P<0.05) but not significantly in the left side. The relative cross-sectional area of the left multifidus muscle (MF RCSA) was positively correlated with TK (r=0.685; r=0.615; P<0.05) but not significantly in the right side. In the L5-S1DLSS patient group, the right MF RCSA and right ES RCSA were significantly positively correlated with TK (r=0.685; r=0.615; P<0.05) but not significant in the left side. Thus, paravertebral muscle parameters were correlated with spinal-pelvic sagittal parameters in patients with DLSS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ramie is an ideal crop for remediation of cadmium (Cd) contaminated soil. However, there is a lack of rapid and effective evaluation system for Cd tolerance of ramie germplasms, and also a lack of systematic and in-depth research under Cd contaminated field conditions. This study innovatively developed a rapid screening system of "hydroponics-pot planting", and 196 core germplasms were used to quickly and effectively identify their Cd tolerance and Cd enrichment capacity. Then, two excellent varieties were selected to carry out a 4 years of field experiment under Cd contaminated field to study the remediation model, evaluation of reuse after repair and the mechanism of microbial regulation. The results showed that ramie adopted the cycle mode of "Absorption-activating soil Cd-Migration-Absorption" to remediate on Cd contaminated field, and the application of ramie for remediation had good ecological and economic benefits. Ten dominant genera such as Pseudonocardiales , as well as the key functional genes (mdtC, mdtB, mdtB/yegN, actR, rpoS, and ABA transporter gene) in rhizosphere soil, were identified to participate in activating Cd in rhizosphere soil and promoting ramie to enrich Cd. This study provides a technical route and practical production experience for the research field of phytoremediation of heavy metal pollution. [Display omitted] • A rapid screening system was innovatively developed to identify Cd tolerant ramie germplasms. • A cycle remediation on ramie was revealed base on a field long-term remediation experiment. • Microbial regulation mechanism was revealed on field experiment. • Key genes in rhizosphere soil were identified to involve in regulating ramie to absorb Cd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, Al2O3/cerium oxide composite films were prepared on the surface of aluminum by anodic oxidation and chemical solution deposition. The aluminum was firstly anodized in sulfuric acid, then treated with different concentrations of Ce(NO3)3 · 6H2O solution at different temperatures. X‐ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS), scanning electron microscope (SEM), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and electrochemical polarization tests were used to characterize the properties of the composite films. The results indicate that the Al2O3/cerium oxide composite films successfully form on 1060 Al alloy, and the best condition of film‐forming is 2 g/L Ce(NO3)3 · 6H2O and 50 °C. Al2O3/cerium oxide composite film under this condition has a uniform, smooth, and pyknotic surface topography and optimal corrosion resistance. The corrosion density at that time is 1.106 × 10−6 A/cm2 and the corrosion potential is −0.458 V. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The hydrated magnesium-carbon films fabricated in this study demonstrated that grain growth and crystallinity modification by substrate temperature treatment crystallization produce films with fewer internal imperfections. This results in high mobility of the solution-deposited hydrated magnesium-carbon electrical conductance, with a corresponding dramatic harmonious transmittance in the infrared range. An investigation of the hydrated magnesium-carbon films shows that the temperature treatment dramatically improves the electron mobility and decreases the carrier concentration, which in turn simultaneously increases the conductivity and transparency. The hydrated magnesium-carbon films exhibit a mobility of up to 85.2 cm2/(V·s) and the resistivity declines rapidly to 1.72 × 10−2 Ω·cm. The transmittance of the visible spectrum increased to 90%. Although the conductivity of hydrated magnesium-carbon films is not prominent comparing to the conventional and widely-used n-type TCO materials, e.g. ITO, the films also showed excellent optical properties, which can be attributed to their low bond energy, with the infrared transmittance of the films being greater than 70% for a plasma wavelength of approximately 10 μm. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • The hydrated magnesium-carbon films are the non-oxide-type transparent electronic material. • The plasma wavelength of hydrated magnesium-carbon films was approximate 10 μm. • Discussed the effects of the carrier concentration and mobility on the photoelectrical properties. • Studied on effects of the substrate temperature on the photoelectrical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Transparent electronic technology has many urgent optoelectronic device applications. A key component of plasmonic materials in conventional semiconductors is the wide band gap of oxide thin films. Although transparent electronic materials have been developed for visible and near-infrared wavelengths, systems incorporating mid-infrared and far-infrared spectra are difficult to achieve. In this study, hydrated magnesium-carbon films, a new type of non-oxide transparent conductive thin films with a magnesium hydroxide structure, were generated using the three-step method. After annealing treatment, larger crystals in the thin films typically exhibited superior film resistivity, with conductivity values of approximately 8.63 × 10−3 Ω m. Due to the free electron concentration was not more than 1020 cm−3, the films demonstrated excellent optical properties, with plasma wavelength values of approximately 8 μm for infrared transmittance above 70%. After annealing, due to the Moss-Burstein (M-B) effect, the visible light transmittance was greater than 85% and the optical bandgap shifted towards the blue region. In addition, the influences of the sputtering power of the carbon target on the properties of hydrated magnesium-carbon film were also discussed in this paper. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • We prepare hydrated magnesium-carbon films using the three-step method. • We analyze the effect of annealing on structural, electrical, and optical features. • Annealing leads to crystal growth, superior film resistivity, and good conductivity. • Films exhibit excellent optical properties, particularly for far-infrared ranges. • The films can replace TCO in the application of optical-electronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract High-quality, transparent, conducting, p-type γ-CuI thin films are prepared via an innovative layer-by-layer procedure based on the traditional simple iodination of Cu films (referred to as the LBL-I method) at room temperature (RT). The structure, morphology, and optoelectronic properties of the γ-CuI are investigated as functions of the per layer thickness. The final thicknesses of LBL-I γ-CuI films are consistent with that in the film prepared by the traditional one-step method (TOS). X-ray diffraction analysis reveals that all the films are polycrystalline with the most dominant (111) direction of the zinc blende structure, indicating the facile and successful fabrication of γ-CuI. Compared with the TOS film, the LBL-I films display enhanced transmittance and mobility. The higher transmittance of >80% in the visible region of LBL-I films was attained due to the smaller root-mean-square roughness values of 23–28 nm. The 50 nm/ l LBL-I CuI films have mobility values of 6.9–9.4 cm2 V−1 s−1, and lower resistivity of 0.039–0.05 Ω cm, which assist studies on applications of γ-CuI thin films in transparent electronics. Highlights • High-quality electrooptical properties p-type γ-CuI thin films are prepared. • Innovative layer-by-layer approach based on Cu films iodination (LBL-I) is used. • LBL-I films show better transmittance and mobility than films prepared in one step. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In p-type γ -CuI thin films synthesized by the iodination of Cu layers with iodine vapor, a frosted-glass-like appearance with a rough surface is usually obtained, which makes it difficult to apply the γ -CuI films to transparent electronics. This paper proposes an innovative method for the preparation of highly transparent p-type γ -CuI films. A chemical reaction between Cu thin films and iodine vapor, combined with the layer-by-layer process at a temperature between room temperature and 120 °C are found to result in highly transparent polycrystalline γ -CuI films. The root-mean-square roughness values of the γ -CuI films prepared by this method are 8.5–21.2 nm, which are smaller than those for the γ - CuI films synthesized by the conventional method. The microstructure and optoelectronic properties of the γ-CuI thin films are sensitive to the temperature of iodine vapor. A high transmittance (80%) of the film obtained at an iodine vapor temperature of 80 °C has a low resistivity of 5 × 10−2 Ω cm and high mobility of 8.7 cm2/Vs. Moreover, a boosted figure of merit is realized due to the simultaneously low resistivity and high transparency: its value jumps from ∼488 to ∼1630 MΩ−1. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • A traditional iodination reaction method combined with the layer-by-layer process. • Simultaneously high transmittance and low resistivity. • A boosted figure of merit is realized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • A novel two-step method is developed to grow 2D Mg(OH) 2 nanoflakes. • The proposed method is environmentally benign. • The method does not require catalysts or harsh acid-base conditions. • The Mg(OH) 2 films had a crystalline hexagonal structure is dominant. • The water contact angle of 139° showed the good hydrophobicity of the film. Abstract A novel and environmentally benign two-step method has been developed to grow 2D magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH) 2) nanoflakes. Our method relies on the deposition of Mg films by magnetron sputtering, followed by reaction with water vapor, and does not require any catalyst or harsh acid-base conditions. The 2D nanoflake surface morphology with a crystalline hexagonal structure was dominant on the Mg(OH) 2 films. The water contact angle on the film was ∼139°, which testified the good hydrophobicity of Mg(OH) 2 films due to the nanoflake surface. The self-cleaning effect of contaminant particles on hydrophobic Mg(OH) 2 films was analyzed. Compared with other preparation methods, this two-step method is more efficient, cleaner, and simpler, which make it suitable for complex or large-area substrate surfaces. In addition, this method can be applied to other metal hydroxides or oxides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate numerous crucial abiotic stress processes in plants. However, information is limited on their involvement in cadmium (Cd) stress response and tolerance mechanisms in plants, including ramie (Boehmeria nivea L.) that produces a number of economic valuable as an important natural fibre crop and an ideal crop for Cd pollution remediation. Results: Four small RNA libraries of Cd-stressed and non-stressed leaves and roots of ramie were constructed. Using small RNA-sequencing, 73 novel miRNAs were identified. Genome-wide expression analysis revealed that a set of miRNAs was differentially regulated in response to Cd stress. In silico target prediction identified 426 potential miRNA targets that include several uptake or transport factors for heavy metal ions. The reliability of small RNA sequencing and the relationship between the expression levels of miRNAs and their target genes were confirmed by quantitative PCR (q-PCR). We showed that the expression patterns of miRNAs obtained by q-PCR were consistent with those obtained from small RNA sequencing. Moreover, we demonstrated that the expression of six randomly selected target genes was inversely related to that of their corresponding miRNAs, indicating that the miRNAs regulate Cd stress response in ramie. Conclusions: This study enriches the number of Cd-responsive miRNAs and lays a foundation for the elucidation of the miRNA-mediated regulatory mechanism in ramie during Cd stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Ramie, Boehmeria nivea (L.) Gaudich, family Urticaceae, is a plant native to eastern Asia, and one of the world's oldest fibre crops. It is also used as animal feed and for the phytoremediation of heavy metal‐contaminated farmlands. Thus, the genome sequence of ramie was determined to explore the molecular basis of its fibre quality, protein content and phytoremediation. For further understanding ramie genome, different paired‐end and mate‐pair libraries were combined to generate 134.31 Gb of raw DNA sequences using the Illumina whole‐genome shotgun sequencing approach. The highly heterozygous B. nivea genome was assembled using the Platanus Genome Assembler, which is an effective tool for the assembly of highly heterozygous genome sequences. The final length of the draft genome of this species was approximately 341.9 Mb (contig N50 = 22.62 kb, scaffold N50 = 1,126.36 kb). Based on ramie genome annotations, 30,237 protein‐coding genes were predicted, and the repetitive element content was 46.3%. The completeness of the final assembly was evaluated by benchmarking universal single‐copy orthologous genes (BUSCO); 90.5% of the 1,440 expected embryophytic genes were identified as complete, and 4.9% were identified as fragmented. Phylogenetic analysis based on single‐copy gene families and one‐to‐one orthologous genes placed ramie with mulberry and cannabis, within the clade of urticalean rosids. Genome information of ramie will be a valuable resource for the conservation of endangered Boehmeria species and for future studies on the biogeography and characteristic evolution of members of Urticaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A thorough analysis of the performance of different strain magnification structures with fiber Bragg gratings (FBG) is demonstrated in this paper. Four kinds of cantilever beams with different shapes have been designed by using a laser cutting technique. Simulation results show that the strain magnification structures of the different cantilever beams are different. There is a positive and linear correlation between the displacement of the free end of the cantilever beam and the average strain at the pasting position of the FBG. The correlation is used to calculate the displacement sensitivity and analyze the efficacy of the different strain magnification structures. Sensitivity enhancement factors (compared to a reference beam) of 2.67, 2.14 and 2.57 were measured experimentally for the different beam shapes studied, while the theoretical prediction factors were 2.67, 2.24 and 2.55, respectively. There is a reasonable agreement between simulation and experiment, which shows that the efficacy is related to the increasing rate of the average strain over the FBG length. The proposed method can be used to enhance the sensitivity of the FBG sensor and further improve the sensor structure design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hydrated magnesium-carbon films fabricated in this study are the novel-innovative non-oxide-type transparent electronic material. The films, which have a structure similar to that of magnesium hydroxide, were produced by making Mg x -C y films deposited by magnetron co-sputtering react with water vapor. As the extrinsic defect of hydration magnesium-carbon films, C atoms provided redundant electrons, resulting in a conductivity of approximately 3.31 × 10 −2  Ω·cm. Although the conductivity of hydrated magnesium-carbon films is not prominent comparing to the conventional and widely-used n-type TCO materials, e.g. ITO, the films also showed excellent optical properties, which can be attributed to their low bond energy, with the infrared transmittance of the films being greater than 72% for a plasma wavelength of approximately 10 μm. By varying the atomic C content of the films, a visible-region transmittance greater than 80% could be realized. The optical bandgap of the films was approximately 4.04–6.87 eV and was blue-shifted because of the Moss-Burstein effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the multipotency of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) makes them an attractive choice for clinical applications, immune modulation is an important factor affecting MSC transplantation. At present, the effect of treatment with MSCs on non‑alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has received little attention. In the present study, a compact bone‑derived method was used to isolate mouse MSCs (mMSCs) and a high‑fat diet was used to establish a mouse model of NAFLD. Immunophenotypic features of mMSCs were analyzed using flow cytometry. Paraffin sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin to assess inflammation and steatosis, and with picrosirius red to assess fibrosis. Spleen leukocytes were analyzed by flow cytometry. The results demonstrated that compact bone‑derived MSC transplantation decreased high‑fat diet‑induced weight gain, expansion of subcutaneous adipose tissue, steatosis, lobular inflammation and liver fibrogenesis. Flow cytometry analysis of spleen leukocytes demonstrated that compact bone‑derived MSC transplantation suppressed the proliferation of cluster of differentiation (CD) 4+ T lymphocytes in the spleen, which had been induced by the high‑fat diet. In conclusion, compact bone‑derived MSCs may exhibit clinical value in the treatment of NAFLD through their capacity to suppress the activation of CD4+ T cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coconut cake is an abundant and good potential edible protein source. However, until now it has not been extensively used in the food industry. To promote its usage, the characterization, nutrition value and antioxidant activity of coconut cake protein fractions (albumin, globulin, prolamine, glutelin-1 and glutelin-2) were studied. Results revealed that all the albumin, globulin, glutelin-1 and glutelin-2 fractions showed a high nutrition value. The prolamine, glutelin-1 and glutelin-2 all exhibited good radical scavenging activity and reducing power, and the globulin and prolamine showed high ion chelating ability (89.14–80.38%). Moreover, all the fractions except glutelin-2 could effectively protect DNA against oxidative damage. Several peptides containing five to eight amino acids with antioxidant activity were also identified by LC-MS/MS from the globulin and glutelin-2 fractions. The results demonstrated that the coconut cake protein fractions have potential usages in functional foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Plant root secretion can be regarded as signal molecules, which exerts impact on microorganisms in the rhizosphere ecological niche. We obtained gene expression profile of Ralstonia solanacearumPO41 under the root secretions environment of Solanum tuberosum at the time points of 8 hrs, 16 hrs and 24 hrs, respectively, after infection with RNA microarray technology. Bioinformatics tools of differential genes expression analysis, GO functional analysis, cluster analysis and pathway analysis were conducted to find out the pathogenic genes and other related genes. We found that the virulence factors of R. solanacearum mainly focused on the output pathways of toxic protein (Sec pathway, Tat pathway and type III secretion system (T3SS)), the aggregation and transfer of exopolysaccharides and the chemotactic movement and adhesion of flagellum in the potato root secretion ecological niche, while the virulence factors in the atypical output pathway mainly distributed in Sec (secB, secDF, yidc) and Tat (tatA, tatC) pathways to promote the output of folded and unfolded toxic proteins. The fliIATPase was obviously upregulated 8 hrs postinoculation, suggesting that type III secretion system was only active at the early stage of PO41 infection. The upregulated expression of phosphoglucomutase and epimerase showed that the virulence factor of exopolysaccharides (EPS) was synthesized at the early stage of R. solanacearum infection. Chemotactic receptor and motor protein were obviously upregulated within 24 hrs postinoculation. Our study revealed that R. solanacearumPO41 had already colonized to the roots within 24 hrs with the stimulating of root secretion. Some pathogenic genes were upregulated during this period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Sedimentary conditions in the Lucaogou Formation source rocks are described. • The telalginite generated hydrocarbons earlier than the lamalginite. • New parameter index to identify effective source rocks is proposed. The Middle Permian Lucaogou Formation in the Jimusaer Sag is a hotspot for exploring and developing lacustrine tight oil in the Junggar Basin, NW China. In this study, we evaluated the tight oil potential from the perspective of source rock hydrocarbon generation and expulsion. Based on a detailed organic, petrological, and geochemical characterization of the target interval within the key well JHBE, kinetic experiments were performed on representative shale samples from the well JHBE and the threshold of hydrocarbon expulsion of the source rock was established. The findings of this study revealed that the Lucaogou Formation shales were deposited in a dysoxic to anoxic and clay-poor lacustrine environment with variable salinity and their organic matter (OM) was contributed from both lamalginite and telalginite with minor vitrinite and inertinite, resulting in good to excellent source rock potential. The lamalginite was deposited in water with low salinity, whereas the telalginite developed in water with relatively higher salinity. Although the greater contribution of lamalginite resulted in a higher OM content than that of telalginite, the former generated a lower amount of hydrocarbons than the latter, because telalginite is capable of generating hydrocarbons earlier than lamalginite, which is indicated by the higher HCI (Hydrocarbon index, S 1 × 100/TOC), EOM/TOC (extraction of organic matter/total organic carbon), C 29 ββ/(αα + ββ), and C 29 ααα20S/(20S + 20R) sterane values for telalginite than for lamalginite and is also evident from the difference in activation energy distributions between lamalginite and telalginite source rocks. As determined from the relationships of sterane maturity parameters C 29 ββ/(αα + ββ) and C 29 ααα20S/(20S + 20R) vs EOM/TOC ratio and HCI values, the lower C 29 ββ/(αα + ββ) and C 29 ααα20S/(20S + 20R) limits for active source rocks were approximately 0.28 and 0.44, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The origin of crude oils and their varied geochemical features along the western and northern slope of the Mahu depression in the Junggar Basin has been controversial. Based on the molecular and isotopic geochemistry of hydrocarbons from 46 drill-stem test crude oil samples and 36 core samples, three oil groups (I, II, III) and five subgroups (I 1 , I 2 , II, III 1 and III 2 ) have been recognized and oil-source correlations have been established. The subgroup I 1 oils originated mainly from lower Permian Fengcheng (P 1 f) carbonate source rocks, subgroup I 2 from P 1 f mudstone source rock and group II oils from Middle Permian Wuerhe (P 2 w) mudstone source rock whose potential was underestimated in the past. Group III consists of mixed oils, i.e., subgroup III 1 received contributions from P 1 f carbonates and P 2 w mudstones and subgroup III 2 is a mixture of oils from P 1 f mudstones and P 2 w-generated oils. In order to determine the main source rocks, the laboratory oil mixing experiments were carried out. Tricyclic terpane biomarker parameters (TTs) were used to quantify the source contributions. Whole oil carbon isotope ratios were also used to verify the proportions of different oils in each mixture. The results show that subgroup III 1 oils have diverse mixing ratios in different reservoir, subgroup III 2 oils are mainly from P 1 f mudstones and P 2 w source rock contributes little. Finally, the accumulation process of oil fields along the northern slope of the Mahu depression was analyzed and the contributions from different sources were revealed. This study provides an effective quantitative method to identify contributions from different lacustrine source rocks to mixed oils in the Mahu depression, which could be helpful in predicting location and composition of undiscovered oils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The geochemical compositions of crude oils and Permian source rocks from the Mahu depression of the Junggar Basin were analyzed in this study. Based on tricyclic terpanes and isoprenoid biomarkers, three oil groups (I, II and III) can be identified that correspond to different source rock formations and organic facies. After examination of the influence of source facies and thermal maturity, and selected biomarker ratios based on carbazole isomers such as 1-MC/4-MC, 1,8-DMC/2,7-DMC and [a]/([a] + [c])-BC ratios in different oil groups, allowed us to determine the direction of hydrocarbon migration in different reservoirs. In addition, abundant oil inclusions are present with fluorescence colors ranging from yellow to blue-white. These were analyzed by FTIR to distinguish between different sources for the oils. Fluid inclusion petrography and microthermometry were also used to prove two stages of oil migration and their different sources. Taking into consideration possible migration pathways and likely driving forces, we conclude that abnormally high pressure in the Permian sequence acted as the main driving force for oil migration. The major migration pathways were vertical faults in the fault belts and slope areas, and sand bodies in the deeper areas. Group I 1 oils from P 1 f carbonate source rocks in the fault belts mainly migrated vertically through the faults and accumulated in T 1 b reservoirs in the Late Triassic, and were driven by excess formation pressure and buoyancy. Group I 2 oils in the slope areas first migrated vertically within thrust faults from P 1 f mudstone source rock in the Late Triassic, after which they migrated laterally over short distances to accumulate in T 1 b sand bodies. Group II oils from adjacent P 2 w source rocks in the center of the depression migrated mainly in the Late Jurassic, due to abnormally high pressure, and accumulated in nearby T 1 b traps. Some reservoir rocks in the slope area contain two generations of fluid inclusions, implying oil mixing from early-stage P 1 f oils and late-stage P 2 w oils, resulting in the group III oils. Combining these data from biomarkers, pyrrolic nitrogen compounds and fluid inclusions allowed us to construct models of migration and accumulation for oils in the Mahu depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant-specific remorin genes have been identified in angiosperms, gymnosperms, ferns, and mosses. Several remorin genes are highly conserved in plant genomes, and their basic characteristics have been determined. Remorins have multiple biological functions, including in antibacterial defense, signal transduction, damage repair, and resistance to environmental stresses. In the present study, a full-length cDNA clone of the StREMa4 remorin gene was isolated from Ralstonia solanacearum-infected potato ( Solanum tuberosum L.) cultivar 'ED13' plants through the rapid amplification of cDNA ends. Sequence analyses revealed that StREMa4 comprised 803 bp, including a 591 bp open reading frame that encoded a protein consisting of 197 amino acids. The StREMa4 protein was highly homologous to remorins from potato and other Solanaceae species. Real-time PCR analyses revealed that in addition to being up-regulated by Ralstonia solanacearum, StREMa4 expression was induced by exogenous hormones (i.e., salicylic acid, methyl jasmonate, and abscisic acid), with some differences in the expression patterns. Tissue localization analyses indicated that StREMa4 expression was tissue-specific, occurring primarily in the phloem of stem and leaf tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an inevitable existence in semiconductor heterostructures, interfacial states have a non-negligible impact on the performance of heterojunction-based optoelectronic devices. Here, we develop high-performance photodiodes based on heterointerface-engineered type II SnO 2 /boron-doped diamond (BDD) heterojunctions. We modulate the type of the interfacial states of SnO 2 /BDD heterojunctions by changing the partial pressure of oxygen during the process of SnO 2 deposition by RF magnetron sputtering. As a result, backward rectifying, Zener, and forward rectifying diodes are obtained. The diversity of the diode characteristics is related to the carrier tunneling and avalanche multiplication effects. In addition, the I–V curve of the Zener diode has a negative differential resistance precursor under UV light irradiation. The photogenerated holes in the forward rectifier diode are easily trapped at the heterointerface during transmission. Zener and forward rectifier diodes can output positive and negative photocurrents (i.e., binary photoresponse) under on/off periodic light illumination owing to photovoltaic and pyro-phototronic effects. These results reveal the potential of SnO 2 /BDD heterojunctions in the field of optical logic computing devices. • Three SnO 2 /BDD heterojunction photodiodes with different types of interfacial states were fabricated. • All three devices can achieve binary photoresponse output, but have diverse diode characteristics in the dark. • The photoresponse spectrum of the device with weak donor-type interfacial states can be broadened to visible band. • The binary photoresponse mechanism of three devices are explained by photovoltaic and pyro-phototronic effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The origin and potential source of the presalt natural gas in the Lower Paleozoic Ordovician carbonates within the Ordos Basin, China, is heavily debated, and the causes of carbon isotope reversal are currently unclear. This study analyzes the source and origin of the presalt natural gas and determines the reasons for carbon isotope reversal. The results show that the nonhydrocarbons contain CO 2 , H 2 S, and N 2 and some gas samples have high H 2 S contents of 9.02%–23.58%. The dryness coefficient (C 1 /C 1+) of 91.06%–99.99% (ave. 98.34%) suggests that the presalt gas is mainly a dry gas with some wet gas and that it originates from a high-to over-mature source. However, the results show that the presalt natural gas is primarily a wet-gas-cracking gas, rather than a kerogen-cracking gas, with a certain amount of coal-type gas mixing and it mainly originated from oil-prone marine carbonate source rocks rather than the Permian–Carboniferous coal measures. The gas has different types of carbon isotope reversal patterns, and the δ13C 2 values become negative at Ro equ > 1.5%. The mixing between the oil-cracking and wet-gas-cracking gas at Ro equ > 1.5% results in carbon isotope reversal (δ13C 1 > δ13C 2), rather than Rayleigh and migration fractionation. The occurrence of thermochemical sulfate reduction (TSR) is supported by the high abundance of H 2 S in the presalt gas, reservoir bitumen in dissolved pores, secondary calcite with negative δ13C carbonate of −21.1‰ to −9.7‰, and diagenetic cubic pyrite. It is evident that the heavy δ13C 2 values (greater than −28‰) and the carbon isotope reversal of δ13C 2 > δ13C 3 of the presalt natural gas at Ro equ < 1.5% are related to TSR. This study also establishes a new model of the carbon isotope reversal of the natural gas, which is primarily controlled by its thermal maturity and TSR. Six carbon isotope patterns can be well explained and are supported by real gas samples from the presalt strata, and two types of carbon isotope reversal are predicted. • The presalt gas is mainly oil-derived gas and dry gas with some wet gas. • Heavy δ13C 2 values (>−28‰) and carbon isotope reversal of δ13C 2 > δ13C 3 of are caused by TSR at low maturity. • The δ13C 2 values become greatly more negative at Ro equ > 1.5%. • A new model of carbon isotope reversal is established firstly, controlled by maturity and TSR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Approximate 500 m deltaic-lacustrine successions were formed within 2 Ma in the Liangjialou area of the Dongying Depression in the Bohai Bay Basin (eastern China). However, few studies on sequence stratigraphy were previously conducted in the east of Liangjialou. In the present study, we integrate high-resolution three-dimensional (3D) seismic data with well-logging data to study the sequence stratigraphy and the depositional system.Our study shows that: (1) Four systems tracts have been identified in the study interval, they are HST, FSST, LST and TST. The HST has an ascending shelf-edge trajectory and aggradation to progradation stacking pattern. FSST has a descending shelf-edge trajectory and progradation to degradation stacking pattern. LST has a low-angle ascending shelf-edge trajectory and progradation to aggradation stacking pattern. TST has a backstepping shelf-edge trajectory and retrogradation stacking pattern. (2) Five high-resolution sequences (equal to 4th-order sequence), HRS1∼HRS5, were further subdivided within the 3rd-order LST. In addition, the depositional systems of HRS1∼HRS5 are significantly variable in 3D space. The delta and deep-water deposits in the north are larger than those in the south. (3) The formation of the sequence is controlled by both tectonics and dry-wet climatic cycles. The tectonic subsidence and high sediment supply in overall wet climate play a major role in the formation of the 3rd-order sequence. The higher frequency dry-wet climatic cycles dominate the formation of internal systems tracts. We further divide the climate of study interval into three stages that are excellent correlated to the specific systems tracts: Stage 1 (evaporation < precipitation) corresponds to HST; Stage 2 (evaporation > precipitation) corresponds to FSST; Stage 3 (evaporation < precipitation) corresponds to LST. (4) The basin morphology and source location mainly control the lateral variability of the depositional system of LST. Low paleotopography, narrow shelf width and steep slope dip in the north cause a large accommodation, and promote the development of the deltaic and deep-water deposits. In contrast, a high relief, wide shelf width and gentle slope cause only minor accommodation in the south, and limit the development of the deltaic and deep-water deposits. • A fine sequence stratigraphic framework was established. • Lateral variability of depositional system of LST was documented. • Reginal structure and dry-wet climatic cycles influence the lacustrine sequence in different time scale. • A new three-dimensional distribution model of LST depositional system was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seismic wave exhibits the characteristics of anisotropy and attenuation while propagating through the fluid-bearing fractured or layered reservoirs, such as fractured carbonate and shale bearing oil or gas. We derive a linearized reflection coefficient that simultaneously considers the effects of anisotropy and attenuation caused by fractures and fluids. Focusing on the low attenuated transversely isotropic medium with a vertical symmetry axis (Q-VTI) medium, we first express the complex stiffness tensors based on the perturbation theory and the linear constant Q model at an arbitrary reference frequency, and then we derive the linearized approximate reflection coefficient of P to P wave. It decouples the P- and S-wave inverse quality factors, and Thomsen-style attenuation-anisotropic parameters from complex P- and S-wave velocity and complex Thomsen anisotropic parameters. By evaluating the reflection coefficients around the solution point of the interface of two models, we analyze the characteristics of reflection coefficient vary with the incident angle and frequency and the effects of different Thomsen anisotropic parameters and attenuation factors. Moreover, we realize the simultaneous inversion of all parameters in the equation using an actual well log as a model. We conclude that the derived reflection coefficient may provide a theoretical tool for the seismic wave forward modeling, and again it can be implemented to predict the reservoir properties of fractures and fluids based on diverse inversion methods of seismic data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Cecropins are linear cationic antibacterial peptides that have potent activities against microorganisms. In the present study, a 480bp full-length cDNA encoding diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella) cecropin 1 (designated as Px-cec1) was obtained using RT-PCR. A Northern blot analysis showed that the Px-cec1 transcript was predominantly expressed in fat bodies, hemocytes, midgut and epidermis with the highest expression level in fat bodies. The expression of Px-cec1 mRNA in fat bodies was significantly increased 24h after microbial challenge, with the highest induced expression by Staphylococcus aureus. A circular dichroism (CD) analysis revealed that the recombinant Px-cec1 mainly contained α-helixes. Antimicrobial assays demonstrated that recombinant Px-cec1 exhibited a broad spectrum of anti-microbial properties against fungi, Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, but it did not exhibit hemolytic activity against human erythrocytes. Furthermore, Px-cec1 caused significant morphological alterations of S. aureus, as shown by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. These results demonstrated that Px-cec1 exerts its antibacterial activity by acting on the cell membrane to disrupt bacterial cell structures. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The single life cycle assessment on advanced vehicle technologies and clean construction supply chains offers the potential for reducing carbon dioxide emissions from vehicle operation and road infrastructure separately. However, the impact of the combination of these two aspects on CO 2 emissions mitigation of road life cycle is less known even though it is critical to the longer-term road transportation decarbonization and long-range policy making for transportation sector, especially under latest worldwide net-zero carbon emission goal. In this study, taking a real project-level asphalt pavement freeway with 15-year life span in China as a case, the amount and hot spots of CO 2 emissions of road transportation were evaluated by considering emissions abatement measures of advanced vehicle technologies and construction supply chains which are theoretically practicable in near-, mid-term and long-term future (from 2020 to 2035). Furthermore, a scenario-based sensitivity analysis on different increasing scope together with various increasing degree of abatement levels over time for these measures is provided. Results demonstrate that the timely implementation of combined decarbonation measures of advanced vehicle technologies and construction supply chains by 2035 could reduce 16.3% of total CO 2 emissions from a road life cycle. In detail, for maintenance activities and use phase, total CO 2 emissions reduce 32% and 16.2% separately. The construction equipment still is the top emissions contributor for maintenance activities. The hybrid electric vehicles (HEV), not battery electric vehicles (EV), replaces conventional internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEV) and becomes the largest source for passenger-related CO 2 emissions from use phase by 2035. Findings are sensitive to assumptions regarding cleaner fuel-produced cement, construction equipment and asphalt, and the market penetration of new energy vehicle. The tight and accelerating pace of primary abatements assist in alleviating the infrastructure carbon lock-in effects caused by maintenance activities with 15% additional CO 2 emissions saving, but not bring about a significant additional reduction (no more than 2.0%) for total road life cycle CO 2 emissions. Current abatement measures are effective but obvious emissions mitigation substitutes of a road is still required, especially innovative road structure and cleaner supply chains inputs as well as deeper decarbonized electrified vehicle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We investigated the structural, morphological, and Electrical property variation via methods of SnOx films. • The PE-ALD process is a faster process and better crystallinity than T-ALD for the fabrication of SnOx films. • SnOx films deposited by the plasma enhanced process have higher carrier mobility and lower resistivity. In this work, Tin oxide (SnOx) thin films have been prepared by different atomic layer deposition (ALD) methods, namely thermal (T-ALD), plasma enhanced (PE-ALD) and subsequent layer by layer Ar plasma treatment (PE-ALD-ALT) modes. In the thermal plasma mode, ozone acts as the oxygen source and Tetrakis(dimethylamino)tin (TDMASn) provides the metal cation. In the plasma-enhanced mode, oxygen plasma was used as the oxygen source. For comparison, we added an Ar plasma treatment step after each layer deposition in the plasma enhanced ALD mode. Compared to T-ALD, the reaction process with O 2 plasma as the oxygen source obtained higher growth per cycle (GPC) and crystallinity as well as higher carrier mobility. layer by layer Ar treatment further increased the film carrier concentration and decreased the film resistivity, which also inevitably caused a further increase in the roughness and residual stress in the film. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the reaction mode of high-power pulsed reactive magnetron sputtering and the crystal structure and infrared transparent conductive properties of SnOx thin films prepared at 600 °C were investigated. The effects of sputtering at different oxygen partial pressures from 10 to 24 sccm were examined. For SnOx films deposited at oxygen partial pressures of 10–14 sccm, the reaction mode was dominated by the metallic mode, and the polar unsaturated (101) plane was the preferred orientation of the film crystals. For SnOx films deposited at oxygen partial pressures of 16–18 sccm, the reaction mode was dominated by the transition mode, showing a preferred (110) plane orientation. In the deposition process, at oxygen partial pressure >18 sccm, the reaction proceeded in poisoning mode. As the oxygen partial pressure was increased, the carrier concentration decreased to 1.140 × 1015 cm−3, mobility increased to 14.93 cm2/Vs, and IR transmittance at 4 μm increased. Furthermore, excess O 2 resulted in deteriorated electrical properties of the prepared SnOx films, with a maximum resistivity of 502.9 Ω·cm. [Display omitted] • SnO x films prepared using high-power pulsed reactive magnetron sputtering at 600 °C • Crystal structures and infrared transparent conductive properties examined • Effects of sputtering at different oxygen partial pressures examined • At 16–18 sccm (O 2 partial pressure), reaction mode dominated by the transition mode • SnO x films with deteriorated electrical properties were formed due to excess O 2 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]