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This study explores the internal logic and influence mechanism of government-provided vocational skills training (GPVST) and migrant workers' income level (IL) and income satisfaction (IS) using propensity score matching with difference-in-differences (PSM–DID), and it utilizes panel data collected by China Labor-force Dynamic Survey (CLDS) in 2016 and 2018. The study indicates that participation in GPVST positively affects the IL and IS of migrant workers; further analysis reveals that GPVST is more capable of raising the foreign migrant workers' IL, and that the positive effect on the IS pertaining to the older generation of migrant workers and local migrant workers is more significant. Mechanism analysis reveals that GPVST can indirectly enhance the IL and IS of migrant workers by increasing the skill-enhancing effect exerted by human capital, information-interaction effect exerted by social capital, and trickle-down effect exerted by financial capital; however, generally, the indirect effect of livelihood capital is stronger in the impact of GPVST on the IL, whereas the direct effect is stronger in the impact of GPVST on IS. The findings herein exhibit crucial practical value for strengthening GPVST and enhancing the livelihood capital and income of migrant workers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spatial econometrics has few studies on multivariate ordinal responses. This study proposes a dynamic multivariate spatial ordered probit (DMSOP) model, which is the first attempt to capture temporal and spatial dependencies simultaneously for multivariate ordinal responses. The parameters are calculated using Bayesian inference based on Markov chain Monte Carlo sampling. The DMSOP model performs effectively with the simulated data. Furthermore, the DMSOP model is applied to two response variables, namely, the life satisfaction and self-rated health of adults in 25 provinces in China. The empirical results show that the model can effectively measure the spatial and temporal dependencies for multivariate ordinal responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scallops have become an important aquaculture species in China because they contain high-quality protein, and scallops are important health food that combines multiple effects and high economic benefits. However, scallop aquaculture is perennially threatened by various pathogenic Vibrio species, leading to great economic losses. We obtained a strain of pathogenic bacteria, identified as Vibrio alginolyticus, from the diseased Azumapecten farreri in the scallop farming area of Huangdao District in 2018, and V. alginolyticus is one of the major shellfish pathogens. We showed that V. alginolyticus was isolated and identified as a pathogen in A. farreri for the first time. In this study, we evaluated its morphology and performed a phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing. In addition, we performed a preliminary analysis of its pathogenic mechanisms. The Hfq protein in V. alginolyticus is an important RNA-binding protein in the quorum-sensing system that not only affects the sensitivity of Vibrio to environmental stress but also regulates a variety of functions, such as cell membrane formation, motility, and virulence towards the host. However, its effect on the pathogenesis of V. alginolyticus to A. farreri is unclear. To further investigate the pathogenic mechanism of the Hfq protein in V. alginolyticus to A. farreri, we used the CRISPR-Cas9 system to target and deplete the hfq gene fragment in V. alginolyticus and obtained the mutant strain V. ΔHfq−. We found that the peripheral flagellum of the mutant strain was lost, which reduced the motility of V. alginolyticus. Therefore, the deletion of target genes by the CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing system confirmed that the Hfq protein played a key role in reducing the ability of V. alginolyticus to infect A. farreri. In conclusion, our current findings provided valuable insights into the healthy culture of scallops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of endoscopic resection and various suturing methods to treat non-ampullary duodenal submucosal tumors (NAD-SMTs). Design: We performed a retrospective observational study of patients with NAD-SMTs who underwent endoscopic resection at Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, China, between June 2017 and December 2020. Data on patient characteristics, treatments and follow-up results were collected. The association between clinicopathologic characteristics and different suturing methods or adverse events were analyzed. Results: Of 128 patients analyzed, 26 underwent endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), 64 underwent endoscopic submucosal excavation (ESE), and 38 underwent endoscopic full-thickness resection (EFTR). EMR and ESR are both appropriate for non-full-thickness lesions, whereas ESE is more appropriate for tumors located in the bulb or descending duodenum. Gastric tube drainage is more strongly recommended after ESE. Satisfactory suturing is also vital endoscopic resection of NAD-SMTs. Metallic clips are often used in EMR or ESE of non-full-thickness lesions. The pathological findings revealed that the full-thickness lesions were predominantly gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), Brunner's tumor or lipoma, and the surgeons usually used purse-string sutures to close the wounds. The operation time was longer for purse-string suture closure than metallic clip closure. Eleven patients had complications. Risk factors for adverse events included large-diameter tumor (≥ 2 cm), location in the descending part of the duodenum, involvement of the fourth layer of the duodenal wall, EFTR, and GIST. Conclusions: Endoscopic resection of NAD-SMTs is effective but is associated with a high incidence of complications due to their anatomical peculiarities. Preoperative diagnosis is quite important. Careful selection of treatment and suturing methods are necessary to reduce the risk of adverse effects. Given the increased frequency of severe complications during or following duodenal endoscopic resection, this procedure should be performed by experienced endoscopists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The codling moth, Cydia pomonella (L.), is an invasive agricultural pest species of pome fruits and walnuts that has developed resistance to many insecticides. Alternative eco-friendly approaches are warranted to reduce the dependence on insecticides for the sustainable management of C. pomonella. The sterile insect technique (SIT) is an autocidal strategy of control that is being trialed in experiments against various pests and that could reduce the risk of the development of insecticide resistance. In our previous study, we found that 366 Gy X-ray irradiation can effectively make the C. pomonella male sterile. In this study, we report on the investigation of the effect of X-ray irradiation on the fitness and adaptability of sterile insects, as well as the first pilot release of sterile male adults of C. pomonella in orchards in China. Results show that 366 Gy of X-ray irradiation significantly shortened the lifespan of the sterile male moths, reduced the mating competitiveness of males, and resulted in males being sterile in the orchards. The codling moth, Cydia pomonella (L.), is an invasive agricultural pest of pome fruits and walnuts in China that threatens the apple industry in the Loess Plateau and Bohai Bay; it has developed resistance to many insecticides. Sterile insect technique (SIT) combined with area-wide integrated pest management (AW-IPM) can reduce the risk of resistance to insecticides and effectively control some insect pest species. Our previous laboratory experiment found that irradiation with 366 Gy of X-ray caused the males of the codling moth to become sterile. However, the sterility and adaptability of males after being irradiated with 366 Gy X-ray in the field are still unclear. In this study, we investigated the effect of X-ray irradiation on the fitness of male adults that emerged from pupae irradiated with 366 Gy to explore their adaptability and mating competitiveness, and to examine the effect of releasing sterile male insects in orchards in northeast China on the fruit infestation rate of the Nanguo pear. The results showed that 366 Gy of X-ray irradiation significantly reduced the mating competitiveness of males and the hatching rate of the eggs laid by females pairing with sterile males. Meanwhile, the lifespan of the sterile male moths was significantly shorter than that of the normal ones in the field. A pilot test showed that the release twice of sterile male moths in the orchards had no significant effect on the fruit infestation rate. Our field experiments provide a scientific basis for the further optimization of the SIT technology program for controlling C. pomonella. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many phenomena are correlated and spatially dependent. In addition, some of them are ordinal discrete responses. Thus, a model is needed to capture the interactions of multivariate ordinal outcomes and spatial dependences. Following Smith and LeSage (2004) and Jeliazkov et al. (2008), this study proposes a new algorithm for a multivariate spatial ordered probit (MSOP) model to address this need. In applying this model, the parameters are calculated using the Bayesian inference based on Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) sampling. The validity and accuracy of the MSOP model is verified by simulated datasets, and the model performs very well with the simulated data. In addition, this study illustrates the model by applying it to two response variables, self-rated health, and life satisfaction of elderly people in 18 representative provinces in mainland China. The empirical results show that the spatial dependences are indispensable on the response variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a result of deep burial depth, small pore throat, poor connectivity between pores, different clay mineral contents in reservoirs, and strong reservoir sensitivity, injection wells often have problems such as rapidly increasing water-injection pressure and insufficient water-injection quantity in the process of water-injection development. The main measures used to solve the difficulties of water injection in low-permeability reservoirs include fracturing, acidizing, and surfactant depressurization and injection increase, all of which have some disadvantages of high cost and environmental damage. In recent years, depressurization and injection-increase environment-safe bio-nano-materials have been introduced into low-permeability reservoirs and have achieved good application results in China. On the other hand, although there have been many researches on EOR (enhanced oil recovery) of nano-materials, the numerical simulation field of nano-depressurization and injection-augmenting technology is still a blank that the wettability mechanism of nano-materials and EOR nano-materials used in bio-nano-depressurization and injection-augmenting technology are almost completely opposite, and the influence of adsorption on formation is almost completely opposite. The adsorption of nanoparticles in other EOR studies will reduce the porosity and make the reservoir more hydrophilic. Nanoparticles used in biological nano-technology will produce hydrophobic film near the well, which will reduce the seepage resistance through the slip of water phase. In this study, a set of water flooding model of numerical simulation technology for depressurization and injection-augmenting of biological nano-materials considering adsorption characteristics and reservoir physical properties was established, the sensitivity analysis of key injection parameters was carried out, and the application effect prediction chart of biological nano-technology was drawn, and the model and prediction chart were verified by real oilfield data. As far as we know, this is the first numerical simulation study on biological nano-technology that has been applied in oil fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper employs the Olley and Pakes [(1996). The dynamics of productivity in the telecommunications equipment industry. Econometrica, 64(6), 1263–1297.] method and the generalised propensity score (GPS) methodology to estimate the effects of R&D and its different types, including research activity and development activity, on productivity. Our research sample is an unbalanced panel data consisting of 1808 Chinese listed manufacturing firms from the period 2006–2015. Our analysis reveals how R&D and its different types impact firm productivity: (1) there exists an S-shaped relationship between firm R&D intensity and productivity, which implies the existence of the threshold and diminishing marginal return of R&D for productivity growth. Due to the unbalanced composition of R&D in China, after R&D intensity reaches a critical level (around 50%) a negative marginal effect of R&D presents; (2) an increase of research intensity can improve firm productivity. However, research intensity reaches a saturation point (around 65%) beyond which firm productivity plateaus; (3) there exists an inverted U-shaped relationship between firm development intensity and productivity. The marginal effect of development on firm productivity is negative when development intensity is over 28%. Our empirical evidence implies that firms need to optimise the composition of R&D expenditure in order to realise sustained productivity growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Lower Cambrian shales are widely developed in southern China, with greater thicknesses and higher TOC contents. Although the shale gas resource potential has been suggested to be huge, the shale gas exploration and development is not satisfactory. At present, the gas-bearing property evaluation of the Lower Cambrian shale is still a hot spot of concern. According to previous works, this paper systematically summarizes the gas-bearing characteristics and controlling factors of the Lower Cambrian shales in southern China. The buried depth of Lower Cambrian shales mainly ranges from 3000 m to 6000 m, and the thickness of organic-rich shale intervals (TOC > 2 %) varies from 20 m to 300 m. The TOC content and EqVRo value are generally up to 2%-10% and 2.5%-6.0%, respectively. The gas content of the Lower Cambrian shales in the Weiyuan-Qianwei block of the Sichuan Basin and the western Hubei area generally exceeds 2 m3/t, and gas composition is dominated by CH4. In southeastern Chongqing, northwestern Hunan, and northern Guizhou areas, the gas content of the Lower Cambrian shales is generally <2 m3/t, and the N2 content is generally >60%. In the Lower Yangtze region, the Lower Cambrian shale reservoirs basically contain no gas. Higher maturity, lower porosity, and less-no organic pores are suggested to be responsible for low gas contents and/or the predominate of N2 in shale gas reservoirs. Strong tectonic deformation is an important factor leading to the massive gas loss from shale reservoirs, thus resulting in no gas or only a small amount of N2 in the Lower Cambrian shales. In a word, the Lower Cambrian shale gas plays with low maturity and relatively stable tectonic condition, especially deep-ultradeep zones, may be the favorable targets for shale gas exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The investigation of the shale oil development potential of the lower third section–upper fourth section (ES33–ES41) of the Eocene–Oligocene Shahejie Formation in the Dongying Sag, Bohai Bay Basin, eastern China, continues to be a scientific challenge. A total of 23 shale samples was collected from these strata, and the organic petrology, organic geochemistry, mineral composition, porosity, and pore structure of these samples and their relationships with the retained oils were investigated. The results indicated that these shales with type I–IIa kerogen are rich in lamalginite and its debris, and the Ro values of these shales range from 0.70% to 1.00%. The non-micropores (>2 nm) that are mainly developed from inorganic minerals are greater than the micropores (<2 nm) that largely contributed from the organic matter of the shale. The retained oil contents presented by the free hydrocarbons (S1) and extracted organic matter (EOM) exhibited significantly positive relationships with the total organic carbon (TOC) contents and micropore volumes, which may indicate that the retained oils are largely stored in organic matter micropores resulting from the volume swelling of kerogen. The total oils and their light compositions, as well as the S1/TOC and EOM/TOC values, increase with the burial depth of the shales, indicating that the content and mobility of the retained oils are largely controlled by the maturity of shales. This study predicts that the burial depth of favorable shale oil reservoirs in the Dongying Sag should be greater than 3500 m (Ro > 0.90%), and the siltstone or carbonate rock interlayer, especially with laminated or layered textures, will further control the sweet spot intervals of shale oil. This study provides new geological evidence for revealing the retention mechanism of shale oils and has practical significance for shale oil exploration and development in the Dongying Sag, Bohai Bay Basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential pathogen causing soft rot of Chinese cabbage was isolated from the infected leaves and contaminated seeds, and identified by molecular and biochemical methods. The maximum likelihood phylogenetic tree based on the concentrated sequences with the four housekeeping genes 16S rDNA- gyr B- rpo B- rpo D of the isolates using the best-fit partition model obtained by online IQ-tree plug-in in PhyloSuite v 12.1 showed that the novel isolates clustered into one branch, then formed a unique branch with Pseudomonas protegens DSM 19095 indicating that the isolates were the same isolate and relative to P. protegens DSM 19095. In addition, the emergence rate of the healthy seeds after incubation with the pathogen at 8th day significantly decreased by 27.21% compared with the PBS inoculated seeds. By quantitative PCR, the original pathogen load of JinDi CR breeding was 1310.8 ± 521.7 CFU in 2 μl template, while no pathogen contaminants observed in other breedings, which indicated the low prevalence of the pathogens in the random selected six seedlots. The study enriched the knowledge of P. protengens sp. and highlighted the precautions of the newly emerging infectious disease and the importance of evolutionary study. • The maximum likelihood phylogenetic tree based on the concentrated sequences with the four housekeeping genes (16Sr DNA- gyr B- rpo B- rpo D) indicated the novel pathogen isolated from the field sick leaves and stored contaminated seeds were Pseudomonas protegens sp. • The infection of the novel isolate adversely reduced the seed germination. • The biochemical properties of the novel isolate differed from that of P. chlororaphis with indole production and β-galactosidase negative, and that of the P. protegens DSM 19095, P. saponiphila DSM 9751 and P. seseami , the corresponding types stains of the respective subgroups, with oxidase-positive, arginine dihydralase-positive, and gelatinase-positive. • The low prevalence of the pathogen in the random selected seedlots were detected with gyr B sequence by Quantitative Real-time PCR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, deep and ultra-deep shales (depth >3500 m) of the Lower Paleozoic Wufeng–Longmaxi formations (WF–LMX) have become attractive targets for shale gas exploration and development in China, and their gas contents may be influenced by the occurrence of water to some extent. However, the water content and its distribution in the different nanopores of the deep and ultra-deep shales have rarely been reported. In this study, a suite of the WF–LMX ultra-deep shale samples (5910–5965 m depth) from the Well PS1 was collected for water content measurements, and low-pressure CO2 and N2 adsorption experiments of both as-received and experimentally dried shale samples were carried out to investigate the distribution of water in the different nanopores. Since the studied ultra-deep shales are characterized by higher thermal maturity (equivalent vitrinite reflectance (EqVRo) > 2.5 %) and ultra-low water saturation, the pore water is generally dominated by irreducible water. The content of irreducible water of the studied shales varies from 1.57 to 13.66 mg/g, averaging 6.74 mg/g. Irreducible water may mainly occur in the clay-hosted pores, while it could also be hosted in parts of organic pores of organic-rich shales. Irreducible water is primarily distributed in non-micropores rather than in micropores of the studied shales, which mainly occurs in micopores with a diameter of 0.4–0.6 nm and mesopores with a diameter of 2–10 nm. Very low contents of irreducible water could reduce the specific surface area and volume of non-micropores of the shales to some extent, but the effect of irreducible water on the specific surface area of non-micropores was more significant than the volume of non-micropores, especially for organic-rich shale samples. The ultra-deep shale gas may be predominately composed of free gas, so low contents of irreducible water may play a limited role in its total gas contents. Overall, our findings can be helpful for a better understanding of water distribution in the highly-matured shales, and provide a scientific basis for ultra-deep shale gas exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, organizations across myriad industries have begun adopting novel digital technologies and, in doing so, fostered their digital transformation. This study examines the digital transformation in state-owned enterprises (SOEs) in China. We conducted comparative case studies on China Mobile and China Unicom, two typical and leading SOEs in China's telecommunications industry, to identify the company's transformation characteristics and how key factors impact the transformation process. This research also contributes to digital transformation literature and to the institutional theory. We develop a conceptual framework for analyzing enterprise digital transformation, and generate some theoretical prescriptions. The research findings conclude that, based on innovation in digital technology by generations, enterprise digital transformation on strategic positioning, value proposition (services and products), and value creation (assets and organizational structure) presents a process by stages; both institutional pressures and technological attraction impact how SOEs carry out digital transformation; different SOEs with different characteristics in value creation present different transformation process. Future research could use the framework as an analytical tool and draw upon the theoretical prescriptions to examine digital transformation in different kinds of organizations. At last, this research also offers practical insights for SOEs to carry out digital transformations and for governments to offer supportive institutional environment for this process. • This research contributes to digital transformation literature and institutional theory. A conceptual framework is developed. Constructing a multi-theoretical framework together with technological distance theory helps expand the explanatory power of institutional theory. • China's State-Owned-Enterprises (SOEs) in digital transformation have presented virous characteristics. The SOEs present diversified transformation paths, express different transformation performances, and affected by interacted impact factors. • Institutional pressure, specifically coercive pressure such as policies and regulations and normative pressure such as social responsibility, plays a significant role in promoting SOEs' digital transformation. • Through organizational structure reform and asset reorganization, the hindrance of organizational inertia to transformation can be effectively reduced. • Technological attraction has a driving effect on an SOE's digital transformation. The less closely emerging digital technologies match a SOE's business and technological field, the more support to the SOE's digital transformation from the government is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper advances understanding of the process and mechanism of endogenous inclusive development of information and communications technology (ICT) solutions. We present a case of a bottom of the pyramid (BoP) community in a rural area in China, which has achieved sustainable furniture e‐commerce development independently. The case study demonstrates that e‐commerce development in a disadvantaged area can start from a seed business model targeting a niche market with simple products, which will incur low costs and low skill requirements for entrepreneurs, and is thus able to scale up within local BoP community. In the second stage, BoP entrepreneurs must engage in intensive learning from the seed entrepreneur and other early movers to gain the required capabilities for operating the seed business model. In the last stage, BoP entrepreneurs need to focus on business model innovation and scoping, and form a local value chain and ecosystem for e‐commerce development. Throughout the e‐commerce development process, a seed entrepreneur plays specific critical roles at each stage. Practical implications for the BoP community to take advantage of ICT innovation to achieve sustainable development are given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Corynespora cassiicola, as a necrotrophic phytopathogenic ascomycetous fungus, can infect hundreds of species of plants and rarely causes human diseases. This pathogen infects cucumber species and causes cucumber target spot, which has recently caused large cucumber yield losses in China. Genome sequence and spore germination-associated transcriptome analysis will contribute to the understanding of the molecular mechanism of pathogenicity and spore germination of C. cassiicola. Results: First, we reported the draft genome sequences of the cucumber-sampled C. cassiicola isolate HGCC with high virulence. Although conspecific, HGCC exhibited distinct genome sequence differences from a rubber tree-sampled isolate (CCP) and a human-sampled isolate (UM591). The proportion of secreted proteins was 7.2% in HGCC. A total of 28.9% (4232) of HGCC genes, 29.5% (4298) of CCP genes and 28.6% (4214) of UM591 genes were highly homologous to experimentally proven virulence-associated genes, respectively, which were not significantly different (P = 0.866) from the average (29.7%) of 10 other phytopathogenic fungi. Thousands of putative virulence-associated genes in various pathways or families were identified in C. cassiicola. Second, a global view of the transcriptome of C. cassiicola spores during germination was evaluated using RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq). A total of 3288 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified. The majority of KEGG-annotated DEGs were involved in metabolism, genetic information processing, cellular processes, the organismal system, human diseases and environmental information processing. Conclusions: These results facilitate the exploration of the molecular pathogenic mechanism of C. cassiicola in cucumbers and the understanding of molecular and cellular processes during spore germination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to evaluate the association between microbes in the lower respiratory tract (LRT) and the srisk for severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia (sBPD) in premature infants. We conducted a retrospective, single-center study of preterm infants who were admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of Southern Medical University Affiliated Maternal & Child Health Hospital of Foshan, China, between January 2015 and December 2017. The microbes in the LRT were screened by using tracheobronchial aspirate fluid (TAF) culture. One hundred and fifty-five infants were included in the analysis. Among 155 infants, 41 were diagnosed with sBPD, and 114 were diagnosed without sBPD. There were significant differences between infants with and without sBPD in regard to birth weight (BW), gestational age (GA), the duration of endotracheal ventilation and supplemental oxygen. The incidence of retinopathy (ROP) and sepsis was higher in the sBPD infants than in the infants without sBPD. There was a difference in the detection rate of Gram-negative bacteria (GNB) between the two groups. Stenotrophomonas maltophilia and Klebsiella pneumoniae were mainly detected in TAF. The LRT microbes were different between infants with and without sBPD, and GNB is more frequently detected in sBPD infants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The upper section of SJT shale was mainly deposited under anoxic-suboxic conditions during Cambrian Stage 3. • The palaeo-productivity of Cambrian Stage 3 shales was relatively low. • Redox changes and OM enrichment of Cambrian Stage 3 shales were controlled by relative sea-level fluctuation. Organic-rich shales of the Lower Cambrian Shuijingtuo Formation (SJT) in the Middle Yangtze region (South China) represent an important target for shale gas exploration and development in China. The lower section of the SJT mainly consisting of organic-rich black shale deposits has been regarded to be a favorable target for shale gas exploration and received substantial attentions, while the upper section of the SJT primarily consisting of limestone, silty shale and black shale deposits has been rarely studied. Most recently, a major breakthrough of shale gas exploration and development has been made in the upper section shale deposits. In order to better understand the redox evolution of sedimentary environment throughout the whole Early Cambrian time and organic matter (OM) enrichment mechanism of the SJT shale deposits, geochemical investigations, including analyses of total organic carbon (TOC), as well as major and trace element compositions, were conducted on the upper section of the SJT shales from Well EYY1. Our results showed that the upper section of the SJT shale deposits was accumulated during the Cambrian Stage 3. The TOC values of the studied SJT shale samples ranged from 0.34 to 3.65 wt%. The lower part of the upper section of the SJT shale, which exhibited relatively high TOC contents (∼2.0 wt%), was deposited under anoxic bottom-water conditions during the early Cambrian Stage 3, while the upper part, showing relatively low TOC content (1.0 wt%), was deposited under suboxic bottom-water conditions with intermittent episodes of anoxic bottom-water conditions during the middle–late Cambrian Stage 3. The palaeo-productivity of the SJT shale was estimated to be generally low, and displayed little variation. The OM enrichment mechanism of the SJT shale deposits underwent dynamic changes due to relative sea-level changes in the Yangtze Ocean. The OM enrichment of the early and late Cambrian Stage 3 shale deposits was primarily controlled by reducing conditions, while that of the middle Cambrian Stage 3 shale deposits may have been influenced by episodic upwelling activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the methods by which firms take advantage of information and communication technologies (ICTs) to achieve transformation. The research results advance current knowledge on the mechanism of ICT-facilitated firm transformation. Based on the literature, we propose a conceptual framework that describes firm transformation occurs at three interrelated layers: 1) operation mode/technological capability layer, 2) open innovation layer, and 3) actor network layer. It argues a firm can leverage ICTs to practice open innovation and accordingly form a supportive actor network, which will help the firm build its capability and upgrade the operation mode. We further use this framework to analyse cases of non-farm rural enterprises (REs) in a coastal region of China. The case study demonstrates that, on the condition that the government has ensured the availability of ICTs infrastructure, a latecomer firm from a disadvantaged context such as a RE in China can take advantage of ICTs to transform itself and advance in the industry value chain mainly with its own indigenous efforts. Researchers can use our proposed framework as an analytical tool in future research on ICTs in firm transformation. The framework offers reference for firms to design their strategies for leveraging ICTs to promote the transformation. • A framework of ICT-facilitated firm transformation is proposed and used to analyse cases of rural enterprises in China. • Operation mode/technological capability, open innovation, and actor-network co-evolve • ICT-facilitated open innovation supports technological capability building and OEM-ODM-OBM transformation. • ICT-facilitated actor-network supports open innovation practices. • Theoretical reflections and practical implications on ICTs in firm transformation are given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The diskless-fingered odorous frog Odorrana grahami is widely distributed in the high-altitude mountains in the southwestern China and northern Indochina regions. In this study, a comparative analysis of the mitochondrial COI gene sequences was performed to examine the population genetic diversity of 76 individuals from 10 localities across the distributional range of the species. Haplotype diversity and nucleotide diversity were 0.605 and 0.00199, respectively, in the total population. An AMOVA indicated that 47.3% of the total variation originated from variation within individual populations and 52.7% came from variation between the 10 geographic populations. Tests of neutral evolution indicated that a recent expansion occurred in total population. The findings provide useful information for the conservation of this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quartz is critical to reservoir properties (e.g., rock mechanical behavior and porosity) of organic mudstones, exerting an important effect on shale gas production. However, the types and origins of quartz in deeply-buried Upper Permian mudstones, a potential target of shale gas exploration in South China, remain poorly understood. A suite of deeply buried (5636–5645 m) mudstone samples of the Upper Permian Dalong Formation (DL) in the Sichuan Basin (South China) was selected to characterize quartz minerals using petrological and geochemical approaches, including SEM-CL observation. The studied mudstone samples are relatively enriched in organic matter (OM) (total organic carbon (TOC) = 1.88–18.46 wt%) and have been thermally over-matured. The DL organic mudstones accumulated in a failed rift basin, far removed from provenance areas, are chiefly composed of intrabasinal quartz and carbonate (mostly calcite). Quartz is represented by six major forms, including detrital quartz grains, siliceous skeletal fragments, silica nanospheres, microquartz aggregates, grain-replacive quartz, and matrix-dispersed microquartz, of which the latter five are of authigenic origin. Detrital quartz grains are not common in the DL mudstones. Silica reprecipitated as authigenic quartz was largely sourced from dissolved siliceous skeletal fragments (mostly radiolarians), and some silica appeared to have been released from the alteration of volcanic debris (mainly plagioclase) to form matrix-dispersed microquartz grains. Authigenic quartz influenced pore development and preservation of shale reservoirs in two ways. A rigid framework formed from numerous authigenic quartz grains (e.g., microquartz aggregates, silica nanospheres, and siliceous skeletal fragments) shields organic pores during mechanical compaction, whereas authigenic quartz precipitation (e.g., cavity-filling quartz, grain-replacive quartz) reduces porosity by filling voids. A moderate abundance of authigenic quartz (Si xs = ∼20%) is most favorable for development and preservation of pores (especially organic pores) in deep mudstone. Organic pores, widely developed in the studied DL deep mudstones, seem to be largely preserved in the samples with TOC values as much as 18.46 wt%. In summary, the DL mudstone deposits enriched in OM and contained moderate contents of authigenic quartz are especially favorable targets of deep shale gas exploration. • Six major types of quartz have been identified in the DL Shale. • Alteration of volcanic materials supply additional silica sources to silica diagenesis. • Authigenic quartz exerts dual roles in pore development and preservation. • Preserved organic pores show great potentials for deep shale gas exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deposition of black shale of the Lower Cambrian Niutitang Formation (NTT) of the Yangtze Block, South China, in association with the Ediacaran-Cambrian (E-C) transition was accompanied by widespread formation of phosphate nodules. Petrological and geochemical studies of the nodules and host sedimentary rocks were carried out to elucidate hydrographic conditions of the Early Cambrian ocean. Our results reveal that NTT phosphate nodules are composed principally of concentrically banded carbonate fluorapatite (CFA) that likely reflects changing Eh and pH conditions contemporaneous with diagenetic nodule growth. Accumulation of organic-rich sediment and nodule growth may have been induced and sustained by contemporaneous volcanic and hydrothermal activities on the Yangtze Block. The introduction of voluminous nutrients with volcanic ash, including phosphate and aqueous Fe and Si, promoted the bloom of plankton, including sponges and lower algae leading to organic matter enrichment. Productivity may have been further enhanced by upwelling of phosphate-rich bottom water that resulted in widespread phosphogenesis and formation of phosphate nodules. The hyalophane-quartz association documented from phosphate nodules suggests the possible interaction of K-feldspar-rich volcanic ash and Ba-rich hydrothermal fluids at lower pH levels in association with nodule growth. The formation of phosphate nodules of the Niutitang Formation, then, reflects the complex interaction among primary productivity, volcanic and hydrothermal activity, and the accumulation of organic matter at a critical period of Earth history. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new chromone and a new aliphatic ester were isolated from the EtOAc extract of myceliums of Daldinia eschscholtzii. Their structures were elucidated as (R)-5-hydroxy-8-methoxy-2-methylchroman-4-one (1) and (E)-6-(non-3-en-1-yl) -2H-pyran-2-one (2) by interpretation of the spectroscopic evidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper advances existing theoretical understanding of the factors impacting upon organisational responses to regulative pressures in the process of information security management (ISM). Drawing on institutional theory, we conduct a case study of ISM in a Chinese hospital. A theoretical framework is presented, which proposes that organisational response strategies devised in response to regulative pressures are determined jointly by internal organisational incentives and external government supervision and enforcement. Practical implications for policymakers to promote organisational ISM are given and suggestions for future research based on the theoretical findings of the case study are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

'People first' is one of the guiding principle of post-earthquake recovery and reconstruction (PERR) in China. Residents' satisfaction should be one of the objects of PERR. The article examines the satisfaction level of residents in Lushan county of Sichuan Province, an area stricken both by the Wenchuan Ms8.0 earthquake in 2008 and the Lushan Ms7.0 earthquake in 2013. Census data and factor analysis were used for analysis. Based on the result of data analysis, eight factors are selected to indicate residents' satisfaction: the relation of resident, infrastructure and employment, social security, the effect of disaster mitigation, natural environment, social affair, owner-occupied housing, price of commodities. Based on result of this study, some recommendations are put forward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Overweight and obesity in adult populations is considered to be a growing epidemic worldwide, and appears to be rapidly increasing in China. From 1992 to 2002, the incidence of overweight in adults increased by 39.0%, while that of obesity doubled. To identify the determinants of adult overweight and obesity in China, micro-level data from a questionnaire survey entitled the ‘Preference Parameters Study,’ which was conducted by the Global Centers of Excellence programme at Osaka University, were analysed. In addition to the entire sample, data from urban and rural subsamples were also analysed in order to investigate whether the determinants of overweight and obesity differed. The results suggested that body mass index (BMI) is correlated with subjective well-being, gender, age, labour intensity and drinking and eating habits among urban respondents, and with age, monthly income, number of siblings and eating habits among rural respondents. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In order to evaluate rare earth elements (REEs) as a potential proxy for solid bitumen classification, we employed traditional correlation approaches, such as carbon isotopes and V/(V + Ni) ratios, to infer the source rocks of Sinian-Cambrian reservoir solid bitumens in the Sichuan Basin and analyse solid bitumens for their REE compositions by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Our data suggested that Sinian-Cambrian reservoir solid bitumens were primarily sourced from the lower Cambrian shales deposited under anoxic-euxinic conditions. REE and their associated parameters seemed to be more sensitive to classify solid bitumens than traditional correlation approaches. REE concentrations played a dominant role and fractionation degree between light and heavy REE and played a secondary role in solid bitumen classification. REE concentration and pattern in solid bitumens might be controlled by two processes, including inheritance from source rocks and water-rock interaction. The major factor controlling REE concentrations in solid bitumens was the type of organic matter of source rocks. Authigenic minerals in solid bitumens formed by water-rock interaction appeared to have little influence on REE compositions of solid bitumens because of their trace contents. Overall, REE could be used as a novel complementary approach to solid bitumen classification in complicated petroleum systems. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the evolution of China's technology standardization policy system in the period from 1978 to 2021. The standardization policy system comprising the supply, demand, and environment policy tool types has evolved during standardization development process, which includes three sequential stages: 1) the following-up stage, 2) the catch-up stage, and 3) the upgrading stage. In responding to changes in institutional, economic and technological contexts, the policy orientation has transformed from supporting the government-controlled adoption and standardization of foreign technologies in the following-up stage of standardization development process to developing indigenous standards owning independent intellectual property rights (IPRs) through the government-led standardization system in the catch-up stage, and to international standardization adopting both government-led and market mechanisms in the upgrading stage. In this process, the Chinese Government continued to offer policy support to but tended to relax its control over standardization. Of the three policy tool types, the supply type have remained the dominant ones; the weight of the environment-type of tools tended to decrease, and that of the demand-type of tools tended to increase. Further, the government rationalized the mix of each type of policy tools as the standardization contexts changed. From the Chinese experience, theoretical prescriptions for how standardization policy systems evolve in latecomers are developed. Practical implications for latecomer countries to transform standardization policy system and design their standardization policies are discussed. • China's standardization policy system has evolved by three stages. • Institutional, economic and technological contexts confine policy system. • Policy orientation changes towards market mechanism and government guidance. • Mix of policy tools is rationalized as the standardization contexts changed. • Supply-type tools have been the dominant ones during standardization development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the key challenges for China's transition towards sustainable development is how to supply adequate and reliable electric power by an environmentally benign electricity sector. This paper examines to what extent environmental concerns have been integrated into economic regulation and the difficulties of doing so under the current regulatory framework. It finds that there has been a failure to adequately and systematically incorporate environmental considerations into the formulation and enforcement of electricity regulation. As a result, some of the potential gains of the adopted emission-control measures have not materialised and challenges remain for future adoption of other pollution-reduction initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apatura laverna is subordinate to Apatura Fabricius of Nymphalidae, and endemic to China. The complete mitochondrial genome of A. laverna was sequenced and analyzed in the study. The length of the complete mitogenome is 15,187 bp, including 37 genes and a control region. COI gene initiate with a CGA codon, the rest 12 genes start with typical ATN. Eleven of 13 PCGs have a complete stop codon TAN except for COII and ND4 have a single T. The phylogenetic analyses support that A. laverna has a close relationship with the clade including A. metis and A. ilia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of rare earth elements (REE) for oil–source correlation has not yet been established. In order to evaluate the potential of REE as proxies for oil–source correlation, we used traditional correlation approaches, including biomarkers and trace elemental ratios (V/Ni and Ni/Co), to identify the source rock of oil sands using isolated organic extracts of mudstones and oil sands, and by analyzing the organic extracts and their corresponding whole rock material for REE compositions by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Oil–source correlations using REE were not consistent with conclusions based on biomarker data and trace element ratios. Only one pair of oil–source rock relationship was successfully established using REE. REE concentrations of crude oils could possibly be controlled by the quantities of metal complexes and functional groups that provide complexing sites for V and REE as well as secondary alteration processes (e.g., thermal alteration and biodegradation). REE patterns might be linked to the organic matter types of source rocks. Although an accurate oil–source relationship failed to be established using REE in this study, REE could potentially be a novel complementary proxy for oil–oil and/or oil–source correlations when supplemented by traditional correlation approaches, including biomarkers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper advances the extant knowledge of the mechanism of government intervention in technology innovation, especially that in the catching-up context. It forms a three-layer theoretical framework and further uses it to analyze a case of the standardization of TD-SCDMA, a third generation (3G) of mobile system, in China. The findings validate the argument that in technology development and technology diffusion stages, there are different innovation task foci and different challenges, which require the government taking a mix of regulative, financial and administrative instruments to intervene. The government needs to draw upon the institutional environment, R&D and industrialization capability and the technology characteristics of the innovation in identifying the innovation tasks and challenges, and determining the intervention strategy. In the catching-up context, when pursuing the indigenous innovation in complex technology, "hard" government intervention is necessary. Especially the government should take advantage of its control of national economy and the industry to explore the potential of intervention using diverse administrative instruments, for example the leading role of state organizations in innovation should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose To investigate the quality of written instructions for dental prostheses in China, including metal-ceramic fixed restorations and removable partial dentures (RPDs). Materials and Methods A total of 1600 prepiloted questionnaires were distributed to five major commercial dental laboratories in different regions in China. The opinions of dental technicians on the written instructions provided by dentists were investigated. In addition, this study also revealed the technicians' responses to poorly written instructions. Results Seven percent of the written instructions clarified the disinfection status of the impressions or casts, while 32% of the instructions provided general patient information (e.g., gender and age). In cases of metal-ceramic fixed restorations, percentages of written instructions specifying shade, ceramic veneering area, and margin design were 72%, 20%, and 9%, respectively. In fixed partial denture cases, 60% of written instructions provided the number of pontics, while 22% specified the pontic design. In the case of RPDs, 90% of instructions showed the type and position of clasps, 88% provided connector design, while 68% mentioned information regarding the artificial teeth. Dental technicians claimed that 78% of the written instructions involved were inadequately prescribed to some extent, but only about one-third of them would contact dentists for clarification. Conclusions Written instructions are not well prescribed in many cases. This situation may jeopardize the quality of prosthodontic treatment. It is necessary to shape responsible policy and mandatory professional guidelines for prosthodontic treatment procedures including dental laboratory services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate estimation of thermal conductivity of rocks is of paramount importance for projects such as the development of hot dry rock and the geological storage of nuclear waste. In this paper, 30 granite samples from the Songliao and Gonghe Basins in China were tested by X-ray diffraction, polarizing microscope, and Thermal Conductivity Scanning (TCS) measurements. Different mineral contents determine the thermal conductivity of the rock as a whole. The geometric average model and the harmonic average model have great limitations. Combined with the above two models, a new model is proposed for estimating the thermal conductivity, and results are less different from the measured values and have universal applicability. The relative estimation error on the thermal conductivity calculated by mineral composition is significantly reduced. The accuracy of thermal conductivity calculation can be improved by mineral composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The factors controlling silica enrichment of the Lower Cambrian sedimentary succession have been disputed for a long time. This paper describes results of a petrological and geochemical investigation of Lower Cambrian shale deposits of the intraplatfrom basin of the Yangtze Block, South China, with the goal of elucidating potential controls on silica enrichment of these deposits. Excess silica (Si xs) concentrations in the studied deposits suggest that silica was generally enriched in Lower Cambrian units, including the Maidiping Formation (MDP) and the overlying Qiongzhusi Formation (QZS). Greater excess silica concentrations in the MDP relative to the QZS may reflect the influence of three factors: continental weathering, aeolian input, and biological activity. Corrected chemical index of alteration (CIA corr) values and Ti/Al ratios of the MDP suggest that strong chemical weathering increased the delivery of dissolved silica to the global ocean during the episodes of warm, humid paleo-climate conditions. This, in tandem with diminished aeolian input that accompanied the humid climate, favored establishment of a silica-rich ocean during Fortunian and early Stage 2 time. The presence of coeval massive chert-phosphorite deposits may be attributed to blooms of phytoplankton and siliceous organisms (mainly sponge spicules) induced by upwelling of nutrient-rich bottom waters (e.g., Si and P). However, the abundance of low-diversity sponge spicules was likely insufficient to achieve silica supersaturation of seawater by itself so that direct precipitation of aqueous silica from Si-enriched seawater and pore water may have partly contributed to silica enrichment of the MDP. Diminished CIA corr values and elevated Ti/Al ratios of the QZS suggest the increased terrestrial and aeolian inputs into the global ocean under a relatively cool, arid paleo-climate condition during middle Stage 2 to the Stage 3 time thereby reducing aqueous silica concentrations. The present study suggests that the interaction among paleo-climate fluctuations, increased delivery of nutrients to the ocean, and redox variability was critical to the diversification of sponge spicule and the appearance of radiolarian during the Cambrian Explosion. • Fortunian to the early Stage 2 age deposits of the Yangtze Block, South China, are relatively enriched in silica. • Major factors controlling the enrichment of silica of the Lower Cambrian deposits have been proposed. • Early Cambrian climate fluctuations exerted considerable impact on silica enrichment and the evolution of siliceous organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The upper Ediacaran-lower Cambrian (551–526 Ma) sedimentary succession of the Yangtze Block, South China, hosts abundant chert that formed contemporaneously with the Neoproterozoic Oxidation Event and the Cambrian Explosion. The effect of biological evolution, especially the rise of silica-secreting organisms, on marine Si cycling during the Ediacaran-Cambrian (E-C) transition remains controversial. This paper describes results of a petrological and geochemical investigation aimed at elucidating the origin of the chert and silica biogeochemical cycling during the E-C transition. Our results reveal that the studied chert is dominated by quartz and carbonate. The widespread presence of relict carbonate in inferred peritidal chert deposits suggests that carbonate replacement was an especially common silicification pattern of this facies, whereas the lack of carbonate precursors in subtidal strata argues in favor of primary and biogenic silica precipitation in deposits of this facies. Silicon isotope compositions, relative abundances of Al, Fe, and Mn and rare earth element (REE) + Y concentrations suggest that seawater rather than high-temperature hydrothermal fluid was the primary silica source of the studied cherts. Secular variation of chert Si isotopes reveals that marine silica cycling was closely linked with biological activity. Although silicification was abiological during the Precambrian, it may have been facilitated by microbial activities, especially the widespread formation of cyanobacterial mats. The flourishing of siliceous sponges and radiolarians in the early Cambrian ocean may have served as a global silica sink thus enhancing biological control of the silica cycle after Cambrian time. The studied chert deposits not only demonstrate the silica-rich nature of the global ocean during the E-C transition, but also record the transition of silica cycling from abiological to biological processes and the effect of the evolutionary radiation of silica-secreting organisms during the Cambrian Explosion on silica cycling. Unlabelled Image • Carbonate replacement is the principal silicification pattern of peritidal facies. • Primary and biogenic silica precipitation dominates silicification of subtidal facies. • Seawater was the primary silica source of widespread E-C chert deposits. • Post-Cambrian marine silica cycling is closely linked to biological activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supported by the Internet of Things (IoT) technology, bike-sharing services have become increasingly popular in recent years. For example, in China, by the end of 2017, the number of service users had doubled in half a year to reach 221 million users (28.6% of the country's Internet users); the market for bike-sharing services equated to £1.18 billion, an eightfold increase from 2016. In this research, we focus on the sustainability of the dockless bike-sharing industry, and analyze how firms achieve sustainability through innovating on business models to adapt to business environments. We have developed a framework of sustainable business model analysis that links business model innovation with the business environment. The sustainable value proposition dimension of the framework includes social-environmental benefits as an element. Applying this framework to analyze the case of Mobike, a leading dockless bike-sharing operator, we disclose the paths of its business model innovation in China and the UK determined by the business environment. The proposed framework can be used in future research of sustainable business model analysis and design. The case study findings extend knowledge about the emerging dockless bike-sharing industry. Practical implications are drawn from the case study for firms within the sharing economy to achieve sustainability through business model innovation, and for the government to support the sharing economy to achieve sustainable development. • A sustainable business model framework is developed. • Sustainable value proposition includes the element social-environmental benefits. • The framework links business model innovation with the business environment. • A case study of dockless bike-sharing in China and the UK by Mobike is offered. • Paths, factors for business model innovation differ for Mobike in China and the UK. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Middle Permian limestone and marl of the Maokou Formation deposited along the eastern Paleo-Tethys margin (South China) host abundant chert nodules that formed in association with the global Permian Chert Event (PCE). An enhanced understanding of the origin of the chert may help elucidate Middle Permian oceanic and diagenetic conditions. However, the mechanisms responsible for the formation of chert, especially the source of silica, remain controversial. Maokou chert nodules, which are made up of quartz and subordinate calcite, hematite, pyrite, and fluorite, and rimmed by F-bearing sepiolite laminae, appear to have formed mainly by the replacement of precursor nodular limestone by silica. The nodular limestone may have formed by differential compaction of interbedded limestone and marl, after which carbonate was replaced gradually outward from nodule centers by dissolved silica released from the dissolution of siliceous skeletal grains (including spicules and radiolarians) in host marl during early diagenesis. The introduction of high-T hydrothermal fluids into ocean water is evidenced by the presence of F-bearing minerals (fluorite and sepiolite), a hybrid rare earth element (REE) + Y pattern, and a wide range of δ30Si values (−0.4‰ to +0.7‰) documented from the Maokou nodular chert. Conservative estimation indicated that Middle Permian seawater may have had a δ30Si composition (+0.7‰ to +1.8‰) similar to that of modern open ocean water, suggesting that seawater was the dominant silica source of nodular chert. Mixing calculations based on REE + Y geochemistry suggest additional contributions of ca. 0.05–0.2% high-T hydrothermal fluid and ca. 1–10% of continental-derived freshwater to ocean water. Such increased influx of silica to seawater may have been related to the early rifting induced by Emeishan volcanism and intensified chemical weathering during an interglacial period, which played an important role in promoting the flourishing of siliceous organisms and subsequent chert enrichment during the Middle Permian. • The Middle Permian nodular chert formed by the silicification of precursor nodular limestone • The mixture of high-T hydrothermal fluids into the Middle Permian ocean water has been identified. • A link among Emeishan volcanism, hydrothermal activity and the PCE has been established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food security and human health can be seriously affected by heavy metal and metalloid (HM) pollution of soil. In this study, the risks posed by HMs and microbial community responses to HM pollution of agricultural soil in southwestern China were investigated. The C, N, P, and S (nutrients) concentrations were 12040.7–15912.7, 1298.06–1832.01, 750.91–2050.35, and 269.17–2115.52 mg/kg, respectively. The As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, and Zn concentrations were 3.11–8.20, 1.85–6.56, 22.83–43.96, 11.21–23.30, 0.08–0.81, 11.02–22.97, 24.07–42.96, and 193.63–698.39 mg/kg, respectively. Interpolation analysis indicated that the nutrient and HM concentrations varied spatially rather strongly. The concentrations of all of the elements were higher in soil from the northern sampling sites than in soil from the other sites. HMs in soil were found to pose high levels of risk (RI 898.85, i.e., >600). Cd contributed more than the other HMs to the risk assessment values (Er Cd 293.72–1031.94), so was the most serious contaminant. Microbial diversity decreased over time in soil with high HM concentrations (plot S2) and was lower than in soil with low HM concentrations (plot S8). The nutrient and HM concentrations correlated with the microbial community characteristics. Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, and Chloroflexi were (in decreasing order) the dominant bacterial phyla. We speculate that these phyla may be strongly resistant to HMs. The fourth most common phylum was Actinobacteria. Bacteria in this phylum could be used as biological indicators of the HM pollution status. Soil micro-ecosystems can self-regulate. HM stress will affect the evolution of soil microorganisms and relevant functional genes. The spatiotemporal variability in the microbial community responses to HMs and the spatial analysis and ecological risk assessment results will be useful reference data for the remediation of HM-polluted soil. • Cd is the main priority pollutant and poses the strongest risks. • Plots with higher Cd concentrations had less microbial diversity. • The dominant Proteobacteria and Acidobacteria were resistant to heavy metals. • Heavy metal stress affects soil microorganism evolution and relevant functional genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, with the improvement of people's living standards, the incidence of DM has increased year by year in China. DM is a common metabolic syndrome characterized by hyperglycemia caused by genetic, environmental and other factors. At the same time, long-term suffering from DM will also have an impact on the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys and nerves, and associated serious diseases. The human body has a large and complex gut microbiota, which has a significant impact on the body's metabolism. Research shows that the occurrence and development of DM and its complications are closely related to intestinal microbiota. At present, western medicine generally treats DM with drugs. The hypoglycemic effect is fast and strong, but it can have a series of side effects on the human body. Compared with western medicine, Chinese medicine has its unique views and methods in treating DM. TCM can improve symptoms and treat complications by improving the imbalance of microbiota in patients with DM. Its characteristics of health, safety, and reliability are widely accepted by the general public. This article reviews the relationship between intestinal microbiota and DM, as well as the mechanism of TCM intervention in DM by regulating intestinal microbiota. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To evaluate the psychometric properties of the Advance Care Planning Readiness Scale (ACPRS‐C) within the context of community‐dwelling older adults with chronic diseases residing in suburban counties in China. Design: Descriptive, cross‐sectional survey. Method s : The research method employed in this study is characterized as a methodological study. Self‐reported survey data were collected among community‐dwelling older adults with chronic diseases residing in suburban counties in China. Including the following psychometric characteristics, item analysis was performed using the decision value method and Pearson's correlation analysis. Content validity was assessed through expert panel evaluation. The internal consistency of the questionnaire was determined by calculating Cronbach's alpha coefficient and corrected item‐total correlation. Additionally, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was utilized to assess the construct validity of the ACPRS‐C. Results: A total of 228 older adults participated in this psychometric study from August to October 2023. The item content validity index ranged from 0.80 to 1.00, while the scale content validity index was 0.945. The scale demonstrated excellent internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.931), and the correlation between items and total score was satisfactory. The structural validity was deemed robust (CFA model fit: chi‐square/df = 1.121, comparative fit index = 0.992). Conclusion: The ACPRS‐C is a scale with strong psychometric properties to assess the ACP readiness within the context of community‐dwelling older adults with chronic diseases residing in suburban counties in China. Its reliability and validity hold considerable significance for both research and clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China is a country with the widest distribution area and the most complete karst development type in the world, and its karst area accounts for about one third of China's territorial area. Finding leakage channels of lakes and reservoirs in karst areas has been an urgent problem for the lake and reservoir construction and the control of leakage disasters. In this study, Biyun lake in Zhijin county of Guizhou Province was taken as an example to analyze the hydrogeological conditions around the lake in response to the problem of watershed shrinkage. Furthermore, with the combination of tracer tests and geophysical detection methods, the hydrogeological conditions of leakage in Biyun lake and the location of the main leakage channel were determined and verified by drilling test results. The results of the tracer test show that Moion concentration increased significantly 32 hours after the tracer was put into Biyun lake, and the value peaked 68 hours after the setting of tracer, and then decreased. The tracer results confirm that Biyun lake flows along the karst leakage zone in the north-east direction after seeping through the sinkhole, and is finally discharged at the outlet of the Babu underground river. In the results of high-power charging method, the potential curve and gradient curve show a relatively maximum potential value and a relatively minimum value of potential gradient at the measuring point of 540 m, where the main leakage channel of Biyun lake was inferred to be located and a large-scale karst cave is likely developed in the vicinity. The rest of the anomalous sections of the curves is inferred to be a strong karst development zone, which can provide conditions for the storage and transport of groundwater. A relatively strong reflective surface of electromagnetic wave shown by geological radar exploration at the depth of about 20--28 m is inferred to be a contact surface between mudstone and greystone. A strong reflection surface of relative electromagnetic wave at the depth of 36--48 m is inferred to be a strong karst development zone. These results are basically in line with the location of the strong karst leakage zone detected by high-power charging method. The borehole drilled at the measuring point of 540 m has verified the strong karst leakage zone inferred from the physical exploration. Based on the correction of the data from the borehole, the parameter of geological radar, V, is taken to be 0.060 m·ns-1 which is applicable to the study area. The study results indicate that Biyun lake belongs to the oblique tectonic basin, where leakage points and underground river pipes are mainly developed close to the axis of the Babu compound oblique, along the lithological interface of three sections of greystone and the second section of the mudstone of Jialingjiang Group. The mudstone constitutes a water separating plate of the karst leakage zone. After lake water seeps along the zone, it flows northwest, and is discharged in the end at the outlet of the Babu underground river. In addition, the leakage of Biyun lake is mainly of the karst pipeline type. The karst leakage zone is located at the measuring point of 540 m, with a 40-meter-deep of karst pipeline; therefore, the leakage section is relatively narrow, and it is feasible to plug the leakage by grouting. The drilling test results confirm the reliability of the technical method used in karst areas, which is combined by hydrogeological investigation, tracer test and physical exploration, because this method can well determine the direction of the leakage channel and the location of the leakage zone, and thus providing guidance on the leakage control of lakes or reservoirs in karst areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analyzed the contents of Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn, Hg and As in 39 surface soil samples in the lower reaches of Huangshui River basin. The results showed that the proportions of Cd, Co and Cr exceeding the standard values in all samples were 17.95%, 17.95% and 12.82%, respectively. The geo-accumulation index analysis showed that 58.33% of Cd was above moderate pollution level. 64.10% of Cr was at the level of moderate pollution and above. Improved Nemerow index evaluation showed that all soil samples had ecological risk of heavy metal pollution, and 64.10% of the samples were in moderate or above pollution level. The results of potential ecological risk index showed that Cd posed a higher ecological risk than other heavy metals. There were 2.6% of the samples with high risk, and the proportions of considerable, moderate and low ecological risks were 12.8%, 2.6% and 82%, respectively. Correlation analysis and PMF analysis showed that the heavy metals in soil were mainly from atmospheric deposition, agricultural and traffic activities, industrial emissions and natural sources. The health risk of soil heavy metals is low, and the health risk caused by any exposure pathway is acceptable. In contrast, Cr, As and Pb were the most important factors contributing to non-carcinogenic risk, and As, Cd and Cr were the main carcinogenic risk factors. Children have higher health risks than adults, and the main route of exposure is ingestion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heat waves have a catastrophic impact on ecosystems, economy, society and human health. Revealing the underlying physical drivers of heat waves is essential for improving extreme event forecasts and disaster prevention capabilities under climate change. Thus, this study provides an analysis of the maximum temperature, and heat wave frequency and duration during July–August in China from 1961 to 2022. Significant upward trends of different heat wave indexes were observed and broke the historical record in 2022. The influence of large‐scale circulation on heat waves illustrates that the eastward South Asia High (SAH) and anomalously westward Western Pacific Subtropical High (WPSH) are closely associated with increased heat wave events, especially in 2022. We further demonstrate using reanalysis data that the Barents Sea ice shrinkage is associated with increased heat waves in China by modulating favourable atmospheric circulations. In addition, the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), which is closely linked to Arctic Sea ice, can provoke large‐scale Rossby waves, which in turn can cause extreme heat events in China. In particular, the reduced sea ice coupled with NAO strengthens the anomalous eastward SAH and anomalous westward WPSH of their position and intensity especially in 2022 and provides favourable atmospheric circulation patterns for the occurrence of heat waves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the urgent need to increase shale gas production and reserves, deep shale gas has gradually become an important target for further exploration in China. However, there is still a lack in systematic research on the quality of different lithofacies types of shales in deep shale gas reservoirs. The overmature shales have a common problem, that is, the organic matter (OM) quality could not be clearly characterized by using conventional organic geochemical indicators, hindering the process of fine shale gas exploration. In this study, the deep marine Longmaxi (LMX) shale samples in the Dingshan area, southeastern Sichuan Basin were selected as a study case to investigate their lithofacies types, sedimentary environment and organic matter accumulation (OMA) mechanism, and restore the original OM attributes including original organic carbon content (TOC o) and original hydrogen index (HI o) for the different shale types to identify the favorable lithofacies for shale gas enrichment. The results show that the LMX shale can be divided into five different lithofacies, such as the OM-rich siliceous (RS) shale, OM-rich mixed (RM) shale, OM-lean siliceous (LS) shale, OM-lean mixed (LM) shale and OM-lean argillaceous (LA) shale, with a gradually decrease of their TOC contents. The TOC content of the LMX shale has a positive synergy with the indicators of paleoproductivity and redox conditions. However, since the studied area is close to the underwater highland with a high oxygen content in the bottom water and a great input of terrigenous debris, the OMA mainly depends on the level of high paleoproductivity. The analysis of sedimentary environment indicates that the OM amount and quality in various lithofacies shales are different. The RS shale at the lower part of the LMX shale has a better OM quality and a greater TOC o , which result in the greater effective organic carbon (TOC e), gas production potential, and retained gas content. It is followed by the RM, LS, and LM shales. In contrast, the LA shale lacks material base for shale gas enrichment. Combined with the available data from other deep blocks in the southern Sichuan Basin, the original OM attributes of RS and RM shales are always better than those of LM, LS, and LA shales. For deep and ultra-deep Longmaxi shale gas exploration, the RS shale should be the first choice, and then the RM shale. • Lithofacies features and types of deep Longmaxi shale were determined. • Paleo-environment and OM attribute of various lithofacies was re-constructed. • Favorable lithofacies and area for deep shale gas exploration were proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Environmental Science & Technology (10036504) is the property of Editorial Board of Environmental Science & Technology and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective: This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of generalized anxiety disorder in China during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and identify its associated factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among the general population in China from March 16 to April 2, 2020. The participants were recruited using stratified random sampling. Data on demographic characteristics and COVID-19 related factors were obtained using self-administered questionnaires. The anxiety score was measured based on the Chinese version of the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item Scale (GAD-7). Results: The study comprised 10,824 participants, of which 37.69% had symptoms of anxiety. The risk factors for anxiety symptoms included poor self-reported health (OR = 1.672, p < 0.001), chronic diseases (OR = 1.389, p < 0.001), and quarantine (OR = 1.365, p < 0.001), while participants' perceptions that COVID-19 would be controlled was a protective factor (OR = 0.774, p < 0.001). The interactions between quarantine and self-reported health (p < 0.001), as well as between perceptions of COVID-19 and self-reported health (p < 0.001) were found to have a significant effect on GAD-7 scores. Conclusions: Self-reported health status, chronic diseases, quarantine, and perceptions of COVID-19 were significantly associated with GAD-7 scores, indicating that mental health interventions are urgently needed during pandemics, especially for high-risk groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Clinical Nursing in Practice is the property of Journal of Clinical Nursing in Practice (Editorial Board, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Press) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Foxtail millet (Setaria italica (L.) P. Beauv.) is an important traditional cereal crop in dryland ecological agriculture in China and is widely grown in India, the United States, and Nigeria. It is of significance to understand the variety–location–fertilizer (V–L–F) interaction for highly efficient production. Therefore, a two-year field experiment was conducted with six varieties in five locations, and data were analyzed by combined ANOVA analysis, redundancy analysis (RDA), and additive main multiplicative interaction (AMMI). The results showed that the mean sum of squares was significantly different among years, locations, varieties, fertilizations, and their interactions, except for Y–V and V–F interactions. The contributions of various factors to yield variation varied, location was the largest contributor (38.7%), followed by year (33.6%), and variety and fertilizer contributed 7.1% and 3.2%, respectively. JI25 was widely adapted, and its yield was stable and higher than that of others over diverse environments in two years. The RDA results showed that two principal components explained more than 66.1% of the yield variance, while more than 63.0% of the variances were clustered in the first factor. Excessive single rainfall or total rainfall and air temperature (especially minimum temperature) were significantly associated with the millet yield. The results offered an important reference for variety layout, natural resource potential mining, and formulation of efficient green cultural practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The shift of diatom dominance to combination of diatom and dinoflagellate dominance in the Bohai Sea (BS), China might be associated with the change of dissolved nitrogen (DN). This study combines field investigation, ship‐based microcosm experiments, a nitrogen biogeochemical model, and statistical analysis to reveal the impact of DN loading on the dominance of diatoms and dinoflagellates in the BS, considering the quantitative relationship between the algal growth/death and nitrogen migration/transformation processes. The diatom to diatom‐dinoflagellate shift was significantly associated with the DN regime shift of oxidized nitrogen (NO3‐N) to reduced nitrogen (NH4‐N and dissolved organic nitrogen [DON]) since the mid‐1990s. This phenomenon was supported by microcosm and numerical experiments: (a) Gonyaulax verior as a dominant dinoflagellate in the BS efficiently absorbed/assimilated NH4‐N, and it can also utilize DON derived from centric diatoms; Chaetoceros densus as dominant centric diatoms in the BS was able to absorb/assimilate NO3‐N, and it can also utilize DON derived from the Xiaoqing River; (b) The change in dinoflagellates/diatoms ratios was reproduced with the change in DN regime from the 1980s to the 2010s by the proposed nitrogen biogeochemical model based on localized parameters in the BS. Moreover, mixotrophism and stronger survival stability, associated with the faster NH4‐N and DONalgal uptake and slower decomposition of G. verior, also supported the shift from diatoms to diatoms–dinoflagellates during high variations in nutrient supply. This study infers the phytoplankton regime shift mechanism associated with the DN structure in coastal waters, providing a credible scientific basis for the shift from water quality‐based to ecosystem‐based environmental management. Plain Language Summary: Changes in amount and proportion of dissolved nitrogen (DN) might lead to the shift of diatoms to diatoms–dinoflagellates in Bohai Sea (BS), which could result in the degradation of primary productivity, the change of zooplankton and subsequent high‐trophic organisms, and then the change of the entire ecosystem, leading to a series of marine ecosystem health problems such as increasing proportion of toxic/harmful algae blooms, jellyfish blooms and the decline of fishery resources. Our study combines field investigation, ship‐based microcosm experiments, a nitrogen biogeochemical model, and statistical analysis to reveal how changes of DN loading influence the dominant algal species structure in BS. According to microcosm and numerical experiments, we found that the DN forms shift of oxidized nitrogen to reduced nitrogen since the mid‐1990s played an important role in the shift of diatoms to diatoms–dinoflagellates. This is because diatoms can absorb/assimilate oxidized nitrogen faster, while dinoflagellates prefer to absorb/assimilate reduced nitrogen. In addition, dinoflagellates have a slower decomposition rate and stronger survival stability. We infer a mechanism that algal community structure in BS shifted from diatoms to diatoms‐dinoflagellates when the amount/proportion of DN changed, providing a credible scientific basis for the ecosystem‐based environmental management. Key Points: We reproduced the shift of diatoms dominance to diatoms‐dinoflagellates dominance in the Bohai Sea by numerical simulationMicrocosm experiments proved that ammonia and algal dissolved organic nitrogen can promote dinoflagellate (Gonyaulax verior) growthThe numerical model emphasized the driving effect of terrestrial dissolved nitrogen input on the shift of diatoms to dinoflagellates [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]