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By using zeolitic imidazolate framework of ZIF-67 as the precursor, the hollow porous Co 9 S 8 (H–Co 9 S 8) nanocages are synthesized via the sulfidation reaction and thermal treatment processes. The ordinary solid Co 9 S 8 (S–Co 9 S 8) particles are prepared by hydrothermal method. To improve the conductivity and activity of the Co 9 S 8 materials, H–Co 9 S 8 + MWCNTs and S–Co 9 S 8 + MWCNTs composites are fabricated by ball milling. The electrochemical hydrogen storage properties of H–Co 9 S 8 and H–Co 9 S 8 + MWCNTs electrodes are tested via a three-electrode system for the first time. Ultimately, the H–Co 9 S 8 nanocages with hollow porous structure show higher discharge capacity of 667.1 mAh/g than the S–Co 9 S 8 particles. The electrochemical performance enhanced after doping with MWCNTs. H–Co 9 S 8 + MWCNTs displays the highest discharge capacity of 683.5 mAh/g. Additionally, the preferable high-rate dischargeability, corrosion resistance, and improved kinetic properties are also achieved for H–Co 9 S 8 + MWCNTs. H–Co 9 S 8 with a unique hollow structure and large specific surface area can offer sufficient electrochemical active sites to anchor hydrogen, meanwhile, MWCNTs with excellent electrical conductivity can further provide fast channels for charge transfer and improve the electrocatalytic activity of Co 9 S 8 electrode during the charging/discharging processes. [Display omitted] • The hollow porous Co 9 S 8 nanocages were prepared by hydrothermal using ZIF-67 as the precursor. • Composites of Co 9 S 8 doping with MWCNTs were fabricated via ball-milling. • The unique hollow porous structure of H–Co 9 S 8 could accelerate the hydrogen diffusion. • The capacity, stability, HRD and kinetic performance were enhanced after MWCNTs loading. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sea urchin-like porous polyaniline (PPANI) is prepared by a facile saturated solution synthetic route. The porous polyaniline/reduced graphene oxide composite (PPANI/RGO) is synthesized via a solution-assisted self-assembly method. Mechanical alloying is used to obtain the Co 9 S 8 alloy. Composites of Co 9 S 8 mixed with PPANI and PPANI/RGO are fabricated through ball-milling to improve the electrochemical performance of Co 9 S 8 alloy. The structures and morphologies of the composite alloys are studied by XRD, SEM and BET. The electrochemical properties of alloys are tested as negative electrodes of Ni-MH batteries by the LAND CT2001A tester and three-electrode system. For comparison, Co 9 S 8 alloys doped with conventional polyaniline (CPANI) and RGO are also prepared. Ultimately, the Co 9 S 8 + PPANI composite shows preferable discharge capacity compared with CPANI modified Co 9 S 8 and matrix alloy. In addition, the PPANI/RGO composite modified Co 9 S 8 electrode exhibits superior discharge capacity than separate PPANI and RGO coated alloys. A maximum discharge capacity (701.4 mAh/g) is achieved for Co 9 S 8 + PPANI/RGO electrode. Furthermore, the Co 9 S 8 + PPANI/RGO composite materials exhibit preferable high-rate dischargeability, improved corrosion and oxidation resistance and excellent kinetics properties. The PPANI material with special porous structure and unique morphology displays better performance than CPANI. Moreover, a synergistic effect between PPANI and RGO species in the PPANI/RGO material may provide a rapid passageway for charge transfer and accelerate the hydrogen transmission. Accordingly, the electrochemical activity and kinetic properties are improved for Co 9 S 8 + PPANI/RGO composite electrode. • A solution-assisted self-assembly method is used to prepare PPANI/RGO composite. • Co 9 S 8 alloy coated with porous PPANI/RGO is fabricated by ball-milling. • The C max , cycling stability and kinetic properties of composite electrodes are improved. • The synergistic effect between PPANI and RGO is advantageous to the hydrogen diffusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

N(6)-methyladenosine (m6A) critically regulates RNA dynamics in various biological processes. The m6A demethylase ALKBH5 promotes tumorigenesis of glioblastoma, while the intricate web that orchestrates its regulation remains enigmatic. Here, we discover that cell density affects ALKBH5 subcellular localization and m6A dynamics. Mechanistically, ALKBH5 is phosphorylated by the large tumor suppressor kinase 2 (LATS2), preventing its nuclear export and enhancing protein stability. Furthermore, phosphorylated ALKBH5 reciprocally erases m6A from LATS2 mRNA, thereby stabilizing this transcript. Unexpectedly, LATS2 depletion suppresses glioblastoma stem cell self-renewal independent of yes-associated protein activation. Additionally, deficiency in either LATS2 or ALKBH5 phosphorylation impedes tumor progression in mouse xenograft models. Moreover, high levels of LATS2 expression and ALKBH5 phosphorylation are associated with tumor malignancy in patients with gliomas. Collectively, our study unveils an oncogenic positive feedback loop between LATS2 and ALKBH5, revealing a non-canonical branch of the Hippo pathway for RNA processing and suggesting potential anti-cancer interventions. [Display omitted] • LATS2 phosphorylates ALKBH5 at Ser361, ensuring its nuclear localization and stability • Phosphorylated ALKBH5 in the nucleus stabilizes LATS2 mRNA by demethylating m6A • The LATS2/ALKBH5 positive feedback loop is crucial for their oncogenic roles Cao et al. show that the MST1/2-LATS2 axis is active in glioblastoma, phosphorylates ALKBH5, and safeguards its nuclear localization and protein stability. In turn, ALKBH5 stabilizes LATS2 mRNA by demethylating m6A, thereby forming a positive feedback loop to promote glioblastoma progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This paper identifies the causal effect of ESG performance on stock idiosyncratic volatility. • ESG performance significantly reduces stock idiosyncratic volatility. • ESG investment can provide a more transparent information environment. • ESG performance inhibits management's earnings management motives. Focusing on ESG-responsible investment, this paper identifies the causal effect of ESG performance on stock idiosyncratic volatility in a typical emerging market, China. Based on the data of A-share listed firms from 2012 to 2022, we find that the ESG performance of listed companies significantly reduces stock idiosyncratic volatility, suggesting that ESG investment can provide a more transparent information environment for the market, thereby reducing firm idiosyncratic risk. Mechanism analysis found that ESG performance relies on mechanisms that inhibit management's earnings management motives and increase analyst attention to the impact of stock idiosyncratic volatility of listed companies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Semi-closed heat simulation experiments were conducted on cylindrical samples, and a series of residue samples of Chang7 shale heated to different temperature were acquired to characterize the evolution and controlling factors of shale reservoir structure. Low pressure adsorption experiments with carbon dioxide and nitrogen as the adsorbents were conducted to characterize the evolution of shale nanopores. Mercury intrusion capillary pressure (MICP) and He–Hg porosities of the raw and residue shale columns were measured to study the evolution of porosities with increasing maturity. Also, the morphology of nanopores and microfractures of Argon ion polished shales was examined using scanning electron microscopy. Decreasing trends of micro- and meso-pores with increasing temperature were mainly caused by masking or occupation of pores by generated oil and bitumens during the oil generation stage. Then the specific surface areas (SSAs) and volumes of micro- and meso-pores increase dramatically with increasing temperature as further nanopores were formed through secondary cracking of the generated oil and bitumens. Destruction of nanopores occurred at the over-maturation stage, and caused decreasing trends of SSAs and volumes of micro-pore, meso-pore and macro-pore from 450 °C, 489 °C and 500 °C, respectively. Shale porosity showed a generally positive correlation with temperature, suggesting that macro-pores and micro-fractures were the predominant reservoirs. That was also observed with focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy. The insights into the evolution of shale nanopores presented in this study are generally in accordance with previous research in North America and China on the properties of these structures in shales at different maturation level. Highlights • Nanopores decreased with increasing temperature at oil generation stage is caused by generation of oil and bitumens. • Secondary pores originated from cracking of generated oil and bitumens during gas generation stage. • Nanopores continuously growing larger cause partial destruction of nanopores at over-maturation stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract We conducted a chemical and isotopic study of oilfield waters from Ordovician limestone reservoirs in the Tazhong oilfield (Tarim Basin, China) to trace the origin and evolution of the waters, and to demonstrate their possible relationship with hydrocarbon charging. The elemental chemistry (Cl, Br, SO 4 , I, K, Na, Ca, Mg, and Sr) and multiple isotopic compositions (δD, δ18O, 87Sr/86Sr, and 129I/I) of the oilfield waters were determined. The results show that these oilfield waters contain basinal brines that infiltrated in three stages, along with a lesser contribution from meteoric water. The meteoric water appears to have infiltrated downwards during the late Silurian and Carboniferous. The earliest brine had very low I contents (<5.65 mg/L) and migrated upwards from organic-poor Cambrian to Lower Ordovician dolostones during the Late Ordovician. The second brine had high I contents (>50 mg/L), was derived from Cambrian argillaceous source rocks, and migrated upwards into Ordovician reservoirs. This stage was related to the main period of migration of crude oils out of the source rocks into reservoirs during the Silurian and Devonian. Both of these brines incorporated constant levels of fissiogenic 129I from the limestone reservoir rocks (11.8–47.0 atom/μL). Finally, brine with very low I contents, but higher 129I (106–491 atom/μL), began to migrate upwards and infiltrate reservoirs. Given the relatively high fissiogenic 129I, this stage may have occurred during the late Cenozoic, and was associated with migration of dry gas from the same source rocks. Our results, combined with those of a previous study of other oilfields in the basin, suggest that the evolutionary of oilfield waters can be used to constrain hydrocarbon accumulation events, and both of which were ultimately controlled by regional tectonism and local geological factors. Highlights • The oilfield waters comprise three brine types and meteoric water. • The evolution of oilfield waters was closely related to hydrocarbon accumulation. • Composition and evolution of oilfield waters were controlled by regional tectonism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have shown that brines in an Ordovician paleokarst reservoir of the Lunnan oilfield in the Tarim Basin, China, are the product of mixing of paleo-evaporated seawater in the east with paleometeoric waters in the west. In order to put time constraints on the brine and related hydrocarbons in this field, 10 brine samples were collected, for which the iodine concentrations and 129 I/I ratios were measured and discussed. The iodine concentration (3.70–31.2 mg/L) and the 129 I/I ratio (189–897 × 10 −15 ) show that the iodine in the paleoseawater and meteoric water (MW) had different origins and 129 I characteristics. The paleoseawater has a high iodine content (∼31 mg/L), indicating that iodine was introduced into the reservoir along with thermally generated hydrocarbons, possibly in the Cretaceous, from the Caohu Sag in the eastern area. Based on consideration of all possible origins of iodine and 129 I in the brines, it is suggested that the meteoric water maintained its initial iodine content (0.01 mg/L) and 129 I/I ratio (1500 × 10 −15 ), whereas the iodine-enriched paloseawater (IPSW) exhibited a secular 129 I equilibrium (N sq = 39 atom/μL) as a result of fissiogenic 129 I input in the reservoir over a long period of time. The model of brine evolution developed on that basis confirmed that meteoric water entered the reservoir in the Miocene at about 10 Ma, and partially mixed with the iodine-enriched paleoseawater. The movement of meteoric water was facilitated by faults created during the Himalayan orogeny, then became more dense after dissolving Paleogene halite and infiltrated into the reservoir at high pressure. The iodine and 129 I concentration in the brine contains information about the path and history of the fluid in the reservoir. This may be useful in oil exploration, since the movement of water was, to some extent, related to hydrocarbon migration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) possess the capability to differentiate into osteogenic or adipogenic lineages. With aging, BMSCs suffer from mitochondrial dysfunction and undergo senescence, favoring adipogenesis at the expense of osteoblastogenesis. It leads to decreased bone formation and contributes to senile osteoporosis (SOP). In the current study, RNA-seq analysis unveiled that senescent BMSCs from mice exhibited a significant suppression in the expression of the protein disulfide isomerase PDI-6, an important regulator of mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt) as well as maintenance of mitochondrial homeostasis. Overexpression of PDI-6 in senescent BMSCs partially rescued mitochondrial function and enhanced osteogenic differentiation. In contrast, osteoblastogenesis of BMSCs remarkably deteriorated under the condition of PDI-6 silencing. Furthermore, melatonin, an endocrine hormone, effectively enhanced PDI-6 expression and repaired injured mitochondria, and the effect of melatonin on PDI-6 expression was melatonin receptor dependent. We further identified that PDI-6 was a downstream effector of Wnt/β-catenin pathway, as the inhibitor of Wnt3A/TCF signaling, Wnt-C59, inhibited PDI-6 expression. Potential β-catenin-TCF/LEF binding sites on the promoter of PDI-6 gene were also validated by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay. Thus, our study suggests that PDI-6 is a pharmacological target of melatonin for the intervention of age-related osteoporosis via mitigating mitochondrial dysfunction in senescent BMSCs. • Melatonin improves mitochondial function of senescent BMSCs. • Melatonin activates mitochondrial unfolded protein response via upregualting PDI-6. • Our study suggests PDI-6 as a modulator of age-related osteoporosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The free, adsorbed and inclusion oils were recovered by sequential extraction from eleven oil and tar containing reservoir rocks in the Tazhong Uplift of Tarim Basin. The results of gas chromatography (GC) and GC–mass spectrometry analyses of these oil components and seven crude oils collected from this region reveal multiple oil charges derived from different source rocks for these oil reservoirs. The initially charged oils show strong predominance of even over odd n-alkanes in the range n-C12 to n-C20 and have ordinary maturities, while the later charged oils do not exhibit any predominance of n-alkanes and have high maturities. The adsorbed and inclusion oils of the reservoir rocks generally have high relative concentrations of gammacerane and C28 steranes, similar to the Cambrian-Lower Ordovician source rocks. In contrast, the free oils of these reservoir rocks generally have low relative concentrations of gammacerane and C28 steranes, similar to the Middle-Upper Ordovician source rocks. There are two interpretations of this result: (1) the initially charged oils are derived from the Cambrian-Lower Ordovician source rocks while the later charged oils are derived from the Middle-Upper Ordovician source rocks; and (2) both the initially and later charged oils are mainly derived from the Cambrian-Lower Ordovician source rocks but the later charged oils are contaminated by the oil components from the Silurian tar sandstones and the Middle-Upper Ordovician source rocks. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The gaseous hydrogen storage properties of superlattice rare-earth hydrogen storage alloy working at low temperature were investigated and prepared with doping AlH 3. The phase composition, kinetic and thermodynamic characteristics of the composite were characterized. The results revealed that the alloy doped with 3 wt% AlH 3 had better performance and the maximum hydrogen absorption capacity reached 1.384 wt%, 1.334 wt% and 1.231 wt% at 273 K, 263 K and 253 K, respectively. The hydrogen desorption ability also was enhanced by 202% at 273 K and 192% at 253 K compared to the pristine. The improvement could be ascribed to the solid-phase activation treatment and surface modification using chemical hydride during ball-milling method, which makes it easier for hydrogen desorption. • Effective hydrogen storage capacity working at low temperature was investigated. • Excellent kinetic performance was revealed by solid-phase hydrogenation treatment. • Reversible capacity of superlattice hydrogen storage alloy reached 0.92 wt% at 273 K. • Enthalpy-entropy complementary effect is verified by chemical hydride doping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrashort lasers have become powerful tools by inducing extremely nonlinear effects in a wide variety of materials. Femtosecond laser data storage in non-photosensitive media is promising for its high density and fast retrieval. We reviewed the progress of three types of femtosecond laser storage in transparent materials: three-dimensional bit-oriented storage by micro-voids, holographic data storage by two beam interference and storage by computer-generated holograms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mechanical alloying is used to obtain the Co 9 S 8 hydrogen storage material. The porous polyaniline (PPANI) with sea urchin-like morphology is synthesized via a facile saturated solution synthetic route. The porous polyaniline/multi-walled carbon nanotubes (PPANI/MWCNTs) composite is prepared by a solution-assisted self-assembly route. In order to improve the electrochemical performance of Co 9 S 8 , composites of Co 9 S 8 doped with PPANI, MWCNTs and PPANI/MWCNTs are fabricated by ball-milling. As the negative electrodes of Ni-MH batteries, the electrochemical properties of samples are measured utilizing a three-electrode system with the LAND CT2001A tester. Eventually, the composites exhibit superior discharge capacities than original Co 9 S 8 material. Moreover, PPANI/MWCNTs coated Co 9 S 8 electrode shows preferable discharge capacity compared with single MWCNTs or PPANI modified Co 9 S 8. The Co 9 S 8 + PPANI/MWCNTs electrode obtains a maximum discharge capacity of 689.2 mAh/g. In addition, the better high-rate dischargeability, enhanced corrosion resistance and preferable kinetic performance are also obtained for Co 9 S 8 + PPANI/MWCNTs. The improved electrochemical activity and kinetic properties of Co 9 S 8 are attributed to the synergistic effect between PPANI and MWCNTS species, which may further accelerate the hydrogen transmission and promote the charge transfer during the charge/discharge process. [Display omitted] • The PPANI/MWCNTs composite is prepared by a solution-assisted self-assembly route. • Co 9 S 8 material doped with porous PPANI/MWCNTs is synthesized by ball milling. • The discharge capacity, cycling stability and HRD of composite electrodes are enhanced. • The hydrogen diffusion was accelerated due to synergistic effect of PPANI and MWCNTs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Urban innovation has driven urban land growth in China. • The innovation-driven development policy will not facilitate urban sprawl. • The positive effects of urban innovation are locally embedded. • Urban innovation effect was dependent on the geographic location of cities. • Urban innovation effect was not dependent on the economy size of cities. Government policy has a significant effect on rural–urban land conversion, ultimately affecting sustainable urban land use. Unlike most studies that have centred on the effects of local land-use policies, such as regulations and taxes, the present study investigates the effect of the innovation-driven development policy initialised recently by China on urban land growth at the national level. Although the geography of innovation, high-tech agglomeration and sectoral restructuring are place-based activities, existing evidence shows several links between urban innovation and urban land growth. However, only a few empirical studies have examined their relationships to date. Thus, we aim to determine the effect of urban innovation on the size and the spatial distribution of urban land using a statistical dataset from 2007 to 2015 and a spatial data source at two-time points for 230 Chinese cities. We employ three fixed effects models to control for the possible correlation between independent variables and unobservable city-level effects. Our results indicate that urban innovation has indeed driven urban land growth but does not make the urban landscape more scattered than before. Further examinations suggest that the urban innovation effect varies across the whole country, and the innovation-urban land growth connection relies on the geographic location rather than the economy size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermal treatment of zinc-based MOF (ZIF-8) is conducted to prepare ZIF-8 derived porous carbon (ZIF-8-C). ZIF-8-C/NiS hexahedral composites with different C/Ni mole ratios (C@NiS-2, C@NiS-4 and C@NiS-6) are synthesized by solvothermal method. Co–P hydrogen storage material is prepared via mechanical alloying. Then, composites of Co–P coated with NiS, ZIF-8-C and C@NiS are obtained by ball-milling. Eventually, C@NiS-4 coated Co–P electrode exhibits higher discharge capacity of 624.8 mAh/g than separate NiS or ZIF-8-C modified Co–P and original Co–P electrodes. The HRD, corrosion resistance and kinetics properties of Co–P are also improved after C@NiS-4 loading. The enhanced kinetics performance and electrochemical activities of Co–P + C@NiS-4 may be due to the synergistic effect between flexible porous carbon ZIF-8-C and active NiS nanosheets, which can further accelerate the hydrogen diffusion during the charging/discharging processes. • ZIF-8 derived porous carbon/NiS hexahedral composite is prepared by solvothermal method. • C@NiS particles with different C/Ni mole ratios are coated on Co–P material by ball-milling. • The discharge capacity, HRD and kinetic properties of composite electrodes are enhanced. • The synergistic effect of ZIF-8-C and NiS can accelerate the hydrogen diffusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Co 2 B alloy was synthesized via the method of high temperature solid phase. Carbon fiber (CF) was prepared from cotton by calcination process. The addition of carbon fiber and Co 3 O 4 improves corrosion resistance and charge transfer speed of the composite material electrode. The R ct value of Co 2 B + 1 wt.% CF was 360 mΩ, lower than the other composite electrode could reduce charge transfer resistance. The overall electrochemical performance of Co 2 B + 2 wt.% Co 3 O 4 + 1 wt.% CF was best among all the electrodes, and its C max could reach 715.3 mAh/g. The high conductivity and multiple reaction sites provided by carbon fiber and the catalytic effect of Co 3 O 4 may be the main reasons for the improvement of electrochemical performance, which enhance the kinetic performance of electrochemical reactions. The synergistic effect of carbon fiber and Co 3 O 4 improves the electrochemical hydrogen storage properties of Co 2 B alloy. This work presents a simple and effective method to improve the electrochemical hydrogen storage performance of cobalt-boron alloys by adding transition metal oxides and carbon materials derived from biomass. [Display omitted] • Co 3 O 4 and Carbon Fiber have different electrochemical effect on Co 2 B alloy. • Co 2 B+2 wt.% Co 3 O 4 +1 wt.%CF has highest discharge capacity and more excellent cycle life. • CF and Co 3 O 4 could bring down the capacity decay rate and charge transfer resistance. • CF and Co 3 O 4 have synergistic effect for Co 2 B alloy about hydrogen diffusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/aim MicroRNA-93-5p ( miR-93-5p ) dysregulation has been reported in many types of human cancer. However, the collective effect of miR-93-5p in both lung adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma and the mechanism underlying miR-93-5p involvement in non-small cell lung cancer cells (NSCLC) is unknown. Herein, our purpose was to reveal the role and explain this mechanism, with the goal of contributing to the development of new diagnostic biomarkers and individualized therapeutic targets. Materials and methods We examined miR-93-5p expression in NSCLC specimens (including lung adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma) by qPCR. The effects of miR-93-5p inhibitor on proliferation, migration, and invasion of NSCLC cells were determined by MTT assay, colony formation assays, apoptosis assay, cell cycle assay and transwell chamber assays, respectively. The molecular mechanisms underlying these effects were investigated via dual luciferase reporter assay and western blotting. Results MiR-93-5p expression levels were significantly correlated with NSCLC patients overall survival rate. Cell proliferation, migration, and invasion were significantly inhibited by miR-93-5p down-regulation. Dual luciferase reporter assay demonstrated that miR-93-5p directly bound with the 3′-untranslated region of the tumor suppressor gene PTEN and RB1 . Conclusion MiR-93-5p is up-regulated in NSCLC and plays an oncogenic role by inhibiting PTEN and RB1 , suggesting miR-93-5p may be a novel prognostic indicator and a therapeutic target in NSCLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With online established battery model, model-based estimation method can track battery state-of-charge (SOC) precisely under dynamic conditions. Nevertheless, both recursive least square-based and filter-based methods cannot distinguish whether the voltage difference comes from SOC difference or internal resistance difference during constant current (CC) conditions, further leading to erroneously identified model parameters and inaccurate SOC estimation. To address this issue, a novel SOC estimation method during CC charging process by fusion of global optimization algorithm and Kalman filter family algorithm is developed in this paper. Firstly, some key parameters that are helpful for initialization and lower/upper bounds setting for global optimization method are extracted from electric vehicles' driving process. Secondly, considering the shortcomings in traditional global optimization methods, including possible premature convergence, slow search speed in the late stage and relatively large computational cost, an improved particle swarm optimization is designed to periodically update model parameters during CC charging process. With obtained model parameters, SOC is further tracked via extended Kalman filter (EKF). The verification results based on experimental data demonstrates that the developed method can significantly weaken the strong cross-interference between model parameters and SOC, further achieving much more accurate SOC estimation than existing dual/joint EKF during CC charging process. • A novel SOC online estimation method during CC charging process is proposed. • IPSO is designed to periodically update model parameters during CC charging process. • Some key parameters used for IPSO algorithm are extracted from EVs' driving process. • The cross-interference between model parameters and SOC can be greatly weakened. • The proposed method can track SOC much more precisely than existing dual/joint EKF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ti 49 Zr 26 Ni 25 quasicrystal alloy is prepared via mechanical alloying and subsequent annealing. ZIF-8 derived porous carbon (ZIF-8-C) is obtained through thermal treatment of zinc-based MOF ZIF-8. The solvothermal method is used to fabricate the ZIF-8 derived carbon/MoS 2 (C/MoS 2) composite. Then, the C/MoS 2 hexahedral particles are coated on the Ti 49 Zr 26 Ni 25 surface by ball-milling. For comparison, the Ti 49 Zr 26 Ni 25 + ZIF-8-C and Ti 49 Zr 26 Ni 25 + MoS 2 composites are also prepared. The C/MoS 2 modified Ti 49 Zr 26 Ni 25 displays higher hydrogen storage capacity of 279.1 mAh/g than separate ZIF-8-C or MoS 2 coated alloy and original Ti 49 Zr 26 Ni 25. The superior properties may be due to the synergistic effect between high conductive flexible ZIF-8-C porous carbon and active MoS 2. The preferable oxidation/corrosion resistance and cyclic stability are also realized. Moreover, Ti 49 Zr 26 Ni 25 + C/MoS 2 electrode exhibits higher exchange current density I 0 , limiting current density I L , hydrogen diffusion coefficient D and lower charge-transfer resistance R ct. The distinctive structural feature of C/MoS 2 can serve a rapid passageway and accelerate the hydrogen diffusion, thus further improving the kinetic properties and electrochemical activity of Ti 49 Zr 26 Ni 25 alloy electrode. • A facile solvothermal method is used to prepare ZIF-8 derived carbon/MoS 2 composite. • Ti 49 Zr 26 Ni 25 quasicrystal alloy coated with C/MoS 2 is obtained via ball milling. • The hydrogen storage capacity, HRD and kinetics performance of electrodes are improved. • The synergistic effect of MoS 2 and ZIF-8-C is advantageous to the hydrogen diffusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The MoS 2 interwoven with multi walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT/MoS 2) composite is synthesized by solvothermal method. The Co–P material is obtained via mechanical alloying. Composites of Co–P coated with MoS 2 , MWCNT and different amounts of MWCNT/MoS 2 are fabricated by ball-milling. Eventually, MWCNT/MoS 2 coated Co–P electrode exhibits superior discharge capacity than separate MoS 2 or MWCNT modified Co–P and original Co–P. The highest discharge capacity of 653.9 mA h/g is obtained for Co–P + 6% MWCNT/MoS 2. The preferable HRD, corrosion resistance and kinetics properties are also achieved after MWCNT/MoS 2 loading. Due to the synergistic effect between MoS 2 and MWCNT, the Co–P + MWCNT/MoS 2 electrode shows improved electrochemical activity and kinetics performance. The high conductive MWCNT and active MoS 2 species within the unique structure of MWCNT/MoS 2 can further accelerate the hydrogen diffusion during the electrochemical hydrogen storage process. [Display omitted] • MWCNT/MoS 2 composite is synthesized by solvothermal method. • Co–P materials doped with different amount of MWCNT/MoS 2 are obtained by ball milling. • The discharge capacity, stability and HRD of the composite electrodes are enhanced. • Co–P + MWCNT/MoS 2 exhibits superior performance than separate MoS 2 or MWCNT modified Co–P. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) plays important roles in many pathological and physiological processes. Herein we present a novel strategy to develop HOCl probe by one-step synthesis of rhodamine-thiophene dyad, rho-T. Unexpectedly, the thiophene moiety did not cause the fluorescence quenching of the xanthene moiety. Upon addition of HOCl, the ClO− anion attacks the carbon 9 position of rho-T and chlorinate the xanthene ring, resulting in fluorescence and absorption quenching of rho-T. rho-T exhibits linear response with increasing concentration of HOCl (R2 = 0.9875) with high sensitivity (Limit of Detection (LOD) = 2.36 nM) and selectivity in a fast response time (10 s). Finally, rho-T was successfully employed to detect HOCl in living cells and mice. Rhodamine-thiophene dyad for colorimetric and fluorescent sensing HOCl based on a novel mechanism. [Display omitted] • Rhodamine-thiophene dyad was synthesized through one-step reaction for HOCl sensing. • Excellent sensitivity, selectivity and fast response toward HOCl. • New sensing mechanism for HOCl was proposed. • The chemoprobe is capable of detecting HOCl in living cells and mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Co 0.9 Cu 0.1 Si hydrogen storage alloy is fabricated by mechanical alloying method. The cobalt/graphene composite (Co/rGO) is obtained via a facile one-pot reduction process. The Co/rGO materials exhibit unique reticular globular morphology. After ball milling, Co/rGO particles are covered on the Co 0.9 Cu 0.1 Si alloy surface. For comparison, Co 0.9 Cu 0.1 Si coated with reduced graphene oxide (rGO) is also fabricated. The Co 0.9 Cu 0.1 Si + Co/rGO composite exhibits higher discharge capacity than rGO coated alloy (541.6 mAh/g) and matrix Co 0.9 Cu 0.1 Si (516.8 mAh/g). A C max of 582.9 mAh/g is achieved for Co 0.9 Cu 0.1 Si + Co/rGO. Electrochemical measurements also show that the high-rate dischargeability and cycle stability are improved. The graphene can provide high conductivity and Co particles in the Co/rGO may participate in the reversible redox reactions. The special structure of Co/rGO may enhance the electrocatalytic activity of the Co 0.9 Cu 0.1 Si surface. A synergistic effect between graphene and cobalt species in the Co/rGO composite may be favorable for expediting the charge transfer and facilitating the hydrogen diffusion, thus improving the electrochemical and kinetic properties of Co 0.9 Cu 0.1 Si alloy. Image 1 • A facile one-pot reduction process is used to fabricate the cobalt/graphene composite. • Co 0.9 Cu 0.1 Si alloy covered with cobalt/graphene composite is prepared by ball milling. • The C max , cycle stability and kinetic properties of composite electrodes are improved. • The unique structure may be advantageous to the charge transfer and hydrogen diffusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Confined pyrolysis was performed on seven coals. • Kinetic parameters for oil and HC gas generation were determined for these coals. • Total oil and HC gas yields contribute 38–53% of S1 + S2 at EASY%Ro 1.19–1.50. • A major portion of the HC gas is generated from these coals at EASY%Ro >2.19. Confined pyrolysis experiments (gold capsules) were performed to determine the yields and kinetic features for petroleum formation for seven coal samples with hydrogen index (HI) ranging from 57 to 278 mg HC/g TOC and maturities of 0.58–0.74 %Ro from coal pits within Triassic–Jurassic strata in the Kuqa Depression, China. Gases and liquid yields were measured at regular intervals as the sealed tubes were heated at 2 and 20 °C/h and total thermal stress calculated as a vitrinte reflectance equivalent (%Re) using Easy%Ro. The total confined pyrolysate yields of oil and gaseous hydrocarbons at 1.19–1.50 %Re only account for a portion (38–53%) of the releasable moieties in measured by Rock-Eval (open) pyrolysis, suggesting that a substantial portion of (47–62%) of these moieties was rearranged and incorporated into polyaromatic residual solids. At maturities >1.87 %Re, the solid residues of the seven coals have very similar gas generative potentials (ΣC 1–5), which are substantially higher than their quality index (QI = (S1 + S2)/TOC) with differences ranging from 20 to 40 mg/g TOC. This result can be mainly ascribed to the differences both in methane formation mechanisms and final thermal stress levels between open (2.25 %Re) and confined pyrolysis (4.44 %Re). Only a minor portion of gaseous hydrocarbons (∼32% and 44% for the Jurassic and Triassic coals, respectively) was generated up to 2.19 %Re while the major portion was generated at higher maturities. Under a heating rate of 5 °C/My, the Jurassic and Triassic coals are modeled to become effective gas source rocks with gas yield (ΣC 1–5) > 20 mg/g TOC at maturities of >1.76 %Re and 1.59 %Re, respectively. The abundant gaseous hydrocarbons found in the Kuqa Depression can be mainly ascribed to the high maturities of coal source rocks (>2.0 %Ro), in combination with excellent seal of thick salt and gypsum for the gas reservoirs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Objective To investigate the clinical significance of long non-coding RNA LINC01617 in esophageal cancer and explore the effect of LINC01617 on the proliferation and metastasis of esophageal cancer cells. Methods Real time fluorescence PCR was used to detect the expression of LINC01617 in 142 cases of esophageal cancer and adjacent tissues. The relationship between the expression level of LINC01617 and the survival rate of esophageal cancer patients was analyzed. The function of LINC01617 was detected in esophageal cancer cell lines. The tumor growth ability test was carried out in the nude mice. Results We found that LINC01617 was overexpressed in esophageal cancer, and its expression was associated with poor prognosis of esophageal cancer. In vitro experiments confirmed that knockout of LINC01617 significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of esophageal cancer cells. Moreover, knockout of LNC01617 can inhibit the growth of esophageal cancer in nude mice. The Akt pathway may be involved in the regulation of cell activity in esophageal cancer. Conclusions LINC01617 may be involved in the occurrence and development of esophageal cancer, suggesting that LINC01617 can be used as a biomarker and potential therapeutic target for esophageal cancer. Highlights • LINC01617 is frequently up-regulated in esophageal cancer tissues and is associated with poor prognosis. • LINC01617 is a pro-proliferatiive lnRNA for esophageal cancer • LINC01617 regulates esophageal cancer cell proliferation and migration through AKT regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic-rich shales from Lower Silurian are widely distributed in the Middle Yangtze region, central China. However, the lack of fundamental data for shale gas reservoirs increases the difficulty of gas exploration. In this study, 34 core samples were collected to characterize the shale pore structure and conduct a preliminary evaluation of the shale gas reservoir. The TOC (total organic carbon) content of the successively-deposited black shales range from 1.6% to 5.9%, while the total porosity range from 0.5% to 4.2%. The positive correlation between TOC and porosity indicates that TOC is the key factor determining porosity. The major component of the mineral matrix is quartz (content of 21.4%–69.2%), followed by clay minerals (content of 16.7%–44.5%). Field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) results illustrate that organic matter, mixed with clay minerals, can form an organo-clay complex containing many nanopores. Furthermore, larger organic pores are developed in organo-clay complexes with higher clay content than in those with lower clay content. Correlational analyses between pore volume (or pore surface area) and TOC (or clay content) demonstrate that micropores are associated with organic matter, while mesopores and macropores are probably associated with clay minerals. Many of the clay-related nanopores are organic in nature and are developed in organo-clay complexes containing both organic matter and clay minerals. Overall, the TOC content controls development of nanopores in the shale pore structure, followed by clay content. The DFT-derived PSD indicates that the pore volume is comprised primarily of pores having widths larger than 10 nm, while the surface area is comprised primarily of micropores. When considering the gas in place model and mechanisms of shale gas storage, further shale gas exploration in central China should aim to the deep (>1000 m) and well preserved Longmaxi Shales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coilia nasus is widely distributed along the coast, and rivers and lakes that connect with the ocean in China. It is a diadromous fish but has residential populations in the middle and lower reach of the Yangtze River and its associated lakes such as Lake Taihu. These ecologically differentiated diadromous and residential populations are difficult to identify and separate, even with current molecular screening methods such as applying the mtDNA markers. The objective of the present study was to screen these populations by the means of the whole body elemental fingerprint analysis (EFA). Our results showed that the diadromous population had significantly lower concentrations of Al, B, Ca, Cr, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, P, S, and Zn, and significantly higher As than the residential populations. The spawners had lower concentrations of B, Cr, P, and S before laying eggs than after laying eggs. Advanced statistical models detected distinct spatial patterns between the diadromous and residential populations, and between groups before and after spawning. The current study showed that the whole body EFA can clearly distinguish C. nasus populations in the Yangtze River Basin and thus proved to be useful and may substitute the elemental fingerprint of fish otolith in future fish ecological studies that need to identify different populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oil and condensate reservoirs frequently experienced later gas charging and cap gas leakage. The influences of these two processes on diamondoid concentrations and compositions are not well documented. To investigate these issues, quantitative GC, GC-MS and GC-IRMS analyses were performed on 24 condensates from the Kekeya Field of gas condensate in the Southwestern Depression of the Tarim Basin, northwestern China. Only normal oils filled the reservoirs of this field prior to gas charging. Based on biomarker concentrations and carbon isotopic composition of individual n -alkanes, these oils were derived from multiple source rocks within the Permian and Middle–Lower Jurassic strata within the early to late window of oil generation. Diamondoid concentrations and compositions of condensates were mainly controlled by the gas that subsequently charged the reservoirs and the extents of cap gas leakage. Two deeper condensates KS101C2 and KS101C3 at 6651–6835 m have extremely high concentrations of 4- + 3-methyldiamantanes (4 + 3MD) in the range of 2523–4296 ppm and very low ratios of adamantane/diamantane (A/D) and methyladamantanes/methyldiamantanes (MAs/MDs) in the ranges of 0.10–0.11 and 0.28–0.33, respectively, demonstrating that these reservoirs were charged by the primary gas with high diamondoid concentration that was generated from very deeply buried source rocks at post mature stage in combination with extensive leakage of the cap gas (the secondary gas). The shallower condensate K2C2 at 3319–3326 m has a moderate 4 + 3MD concentration of 18 ppm and very low ratios of A/D and MAs/MDs of 0.00 and 0.19, respectively, demonstrating that this reservoir was charged by the secondary gas in combination with extensive leakage of the cap gas (the third-generation gas). The shallower condensate KX3C at 3765–3820 m has a lower 4 + 3MD concentration of 9 ppm but very high ratios of A/D and MAs/MDs of 8.60 and 16.73, respectively, demonstrating that this reservoir was charged by the third-generation gas with or without minor cap gas leakage. The other twenty condensates have 4 + 3MD concentrations in the range of 7–23 ppm and ratios of A/D and MAs/MDs in the ranges of 0.60–5.29 and 2.18–12.18, respectively, demonstrating that these reservoirs were charged by the secondary or/and third-generation gases with different extents of cap gas leakage. Furthermore, cap gas leakage influenced alkyladamantane ratios of MAI, DMAI-1, TMAI-1, TMAI-2 and EAI but not the alkyldiamantane ratios of MDI, DMDI-1 and DMDI-2 for maturity and source. • Kekeya field reservoirs experienced multiple oil/gas charging episodes. • Primary gas charging led to higher 4 + 3MD concentration. • Secondary and third-generation gas charging led to lower 4 + 3MD concentration. • Cap gas leakage led to lower ratios of A/D and MAs/MDs. • Cap gas leakage influenced alkyladamantane ratios but not alkyldiamantane ratios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Carbon isotopic compositions were determined by GC–IRMS for individual n-alkanes in crude oils and the free, adsorbed and inclusion oils recovered by sequential extraction from reservoir rocks in the Tazhong Uplift and Tahe oilfield in the Tabei Uplift of Tarim Basin as well as extracts of the Cambrian–Ordovician source rocks in the basin. The variations of the δ13C values of individual n-alkanes among the 15 oils from the Tazhong Uplift and among the 15 oils from the Triassic and Carboniferous sandstone reservoirs and the 21 oils from the Ordovician carbonate reservoirs in the Tahe oilfield demonstrate that these marine oils are derived from two end member source rocks. The major proportion of these marine oils is derived from the type A source rocks with low δ13C values while a minor proportion is derived from the type B source rocks with high δ13C values. Type A source rocks are within either the Cambrian–Lower Ordovician or the Middle–Upper Ordovician strata (not drilled so far) while type B source rocks are within the Cambrian–Lower Ordovician strata, as found in boreholes TD2 and Fang 1. In addition, the three oils from the Cretaceous sandstone reservoirs in the Tahe oilfield with exceptionally high Pr/Ph ratio and δ13C values of individual n-alkanes are derived, or mainly derived, from the Triassic–Jurassic terrigenous source rocks located in Quka Depression. The difference of the δ13C values of individual n-alkanes among the free, adsorbed and inclusion oils in the reservoir rocks and corresponding crude oils reflects source variation during the reservoir filling process. In general, the initial oil charge is derived from the type B source rocks with high δ13C values while the later oil charge is derived from the type A source rocks with low δ13C values. The δ13C values of individual n-alkanes do not simply correlate with the biomarker parameters for the marine oils in the Tazhong Uplift and Tahe oilfield, suggesting that molecular parameters alone are not adequate for reliable oil-source correlation for high maturity oils with complex mixing. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Molecular data from a large set of source rock, crude oil and oil-containing reservoir rock samples from the Tarim Basin demonstrate multiple sources for the marine oils in the studied areas of this basin. Based on gammacerane/C31 hopane and C28/(C27 +C28 +C29) sterane ratios, three of the fifteen crude oils from the Tazhong Uplift correlate with Cambrian–Lower Ordovician source rocks, while the other crude oils from the Tazhong Uplift and all 39 crude oils from the Tahe oilfield in the Tabei Uplift correlate with Middle–Upper Ordovician source rocks. These two ratios further demonstrate that most of the free oils and nearly all of the adsorbed and inclusion oils in oil-containing reservoir rocks from the Tazhong Uplift correlate with Cambrian–Lower Ordovician source rocks, while the free and inclusion oils in oil-containing carbonates from the Tahe oilfield correlate mainly with Middle–Upper Ordovician source rocks. This result suggests that crude oils in the Tazhong Uplift are partly derived from the Cambrian–Lower Ordovician source rocks while those in the Ordovician carbonate reservoirs of Tahe oilfield are overwhelmingly derived from the Middle–Upper Ordovician source rocks. The scatter of C23 tricyclic terpane/(C23 tricyclic terpane+C30 17α,21β(H)-hopane) and C21/(C21 +ΣC29) sterane ratios for the free and inclusion oils from oil-containing carbonates in the Tahe oilfield possibly reflects the subtle organofacies variations in the source rocks, implying that the Ordovician reservoirs in this oilfield are near the major source kitchen. In contrast, the close and positive relationship between these two ratios for oil components in the oil-containing reservoir rocks from the Tazhong Uplift implies that they are far from the major source kitchen. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Confined pyrolysis (CP) and Py-GC were performed on coals. • Oil yields from CP on coals correlate well to n -alkane/ene yields from Py-GC. • Oil yields from CP on coals correlate poorly to Rock-Eval QI. • Liquid yields from Py-GC on coals correlate poorly to Rock-Eval QI. Confined pyrolysis experiments (gold capsules), quantitative flash pyrolysis-gas chromatography (Py-GC) and Rock-Eval analysis were performed on ten coals from the Junggar Basin and seven coals from the Kuqa Depression, Tarim Basin, northwestern China. The maximum yields of liquid components in confined pyrolysis experimnets (MCPΣC 8+), which reflect oil potentials, have close correlations with the yields of n -alkanes + n -alkenes (FPΣ n -C 7+) in flash Py-GC, but have poor correlations with Rock-Eval QI ((S1 + S2)/TOC) values. Thus, oil potentials of coals can be better predicted on the basis of FPΣ n -C 7+ yields from flash Py-GC analysis. Coals with FPΣ n -C 7+ yield >10.4 mg/g TOC can generate MCPΣC 8+ yield >∼22.5 mg/g TOC or oil yield >∼40 mg/g TOC in confined pyrolysis or in natural systems and are effective oil source rocks. Although both Py-GC and Rock-Eval are open systems, the yields of total liquid components (FPΣC 7+) obtained from flash Py-GC have poor correlations with, and are substantially lower than, Rock-Eval QI. In contrast, FPΣC 7+ values have much better correlations with oil potentials (MCPΣC 8+). Coals with higher oil potentials (MCPΣC 8+) generate higher amounts of liquid components detected in flash Py-GC (FPΣC 7+) than those with lower oil potentials but similar Rock-Eval QI. The correlations for parameters with gas to oil ratios (GOR) in confined pyrolysis are increasingly better in the sequence of Rock-Eval QI, H/C atomic ratios, MCPΣC 8+ , FPΣ n -C 7+ and FPΣ n -C 7+ /ΣC 7+ ratios. GOR of petroleum generated from coals within oil generative window can be reasonably predicted on the basis of FPΣ n -C 7+ /ΣC 7+ ratio from flash Py-GC analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]