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The unsustainable demand for wildlife and its derivatives poses a threat to global biodiversity, requiring attention and intervention. This study investigates the intent to purchase medicines containing saiga antelope horn among respondents in China. Drawing on an expanded theoretical framework rooted in a planned behavior model, and analyzing 576 valid data points collected through online research, this paper employs a structural equation model to consider influencing factors across six dimensions: attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control, consumption experience, protective cognitive level, and personal characteristics. The findings reveal that 31.25% of respondents harbor a positive purchase intention toward medicines containing saiga antelope horn. Additionally, attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control, and consumption experience exhibit positive associations with the purchase intention, while the protective cognitive level demonstrates a negative impact. A significant gender gap was identified, with women displaying a greater inclination to purchase compared to men. To support the global conservation efforts of the saiga antelope, this paper advocates for strategic interventions. Recommendations include reinforcing public science education, fostering awareness, advancing the research and development of alternative medicines, strengthening internal market controls, and employing targeted marketing strategies to shift consumer preferences. These measures collectively contribute to a holistic approach aimed at reducing the demand for wildlife products and safeguarding the saiga antelope population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using high‐precision zircon U‐Pb ID‐TIMS geochronology, tuffs from the Chang 9 shale and the Chang 7 shale were dated. The tuff in the Chang 9 shale is 241.47 ± 0.17 Ma, which falls between the top tuff age of 241.06 ± 0.12 Ma and the bottom tuff age of 241.558 ± 0.093 Ma in the Chang 7 shale. These reveal that the Chang 9 and Chang 7 shales are contemporaneous, belonging to the Ladinian stage of the Middle Triassic. This insight expands the region of the main source rock of Chang 7 to the northeast and will inform the search for the deep Chang 9 shale petroleum system, increasing the scope for exploring the Chang 7 shale system in northern Shaanxi. The research results clarify the relationship between the two sets of shale in the Yanchang Formation and redefine the distribution range of the Chang 7 shale in the Ordos Basin. At the same time, it shows that there is a cross‐layer problem in the stratigraphic division of the Yanchang Formation in different regions, the high‐precision U‐Pb dating technology providing a reference for the fine stratigraphic correlation of other continental basins in the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Outbreaks of leaf spot disease occurred in Rehmannia glutinosa fields in Henan Province, China, in 2019, with the incidence ranging from 20% to 40%. R. glutinosa plants with diseased leaves were collected, and 25 isolates were obtained. Pathogenicity tests, morphological observations, and phylogenetic analyses were conducted to identify the pathogens, and the biological characteristics and control agents of the pathogens were studied. Five isolates of pathogenic fungi were isolated. Three isolates were identified as Fusarium equiseti, which is a new pathogen causing R. glutinosa leaf disease; the other two isolates were identified as Fusarium acuminatum. The mycelia of F. equiseti grew fastest on Czapek medium, and the optimal temperature and pH were 25 °C and 10.0, respectively. The mycelia of F. equiseti grew from 5 °C t o 35 °C, and the lethal temperature was 55 °C. The optimal carbon and nitrogen sources were soluble starch and peptone, respectively. Eight fungicides had inhibitory effects on the mycelial growth of F. equiseti and F. acuminatum. Prochloraz had higher activities against F. equiseti and F. acuminatum, with EC50 values of 0.139 mg·L−1 and 0.123 mg·L−1, respectively. These results provide useful information that will aid the development of management strategies to control leaf diseases of R. glutinosa caused by F. equiseti and F. acuminatum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the beginning of 2020, China has banned the consumption of wild animals to combat the spread of zoonoses. Most existing studies focus on the intention and behavior of wildlife consumption and their causes; however, few have looked at public willingness to resist wildlife consumption, as well as the cause and effects of such actions. In this study, a framework for an extended theory of planned behavior was constructed. Based on a 7-point Likert scale, a sample of 1194 respondents from eight provinces across China was obtained through an online survey. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze netizen behavioral intention to resist consuming wild animals and their causes to provide a reference for the implementation and optimization of relevant policies. The study model passed the goodness-of-fit test, confirming the robustness of the results. The results showed that Chinese netizens' intention to resist consuming wild animals was moderate, with 55.19% willing to participate in activities against it, i.e., it is important to resist eating wild animals as a standard. Attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control, and past experience of the Chinese netizen had significant positive effects on resistance intention, i.e., (1) netizens' current living area with severe outbreaks were more likely to resist wildlife consumption, (2) highly knowledge level netizens were more likely to resist wildlife consumption than less knowledgeable ones, and (3) lower income level had higher behavioral intentions of netizens. The findings suggest that the government must take a lead role in wildlife protection and strengthen its restrictions, laws, and regulations. The media should also be used to promote conservation and popularize a protective message in favor of wild animals. Public quality and assurance of wildlife protection should be culturally reinforced to effectively ban the illegal trade of wild animals and their products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sophora tonkinensis Gagnep is a traditional Chinese medical plant that is mainly cultivated in southern China. Drought stress is one of the major abiotic stresses that negatively impacts S. tonkinensis growth. However, the molecular mechanisms governing the responses to drought stress in S. tonkinensis at the transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels are not well understood. Results: To identify genes and miRNAs involved in drought stress responses in S. tonkinensis, both mRNA and small RNA sequencing was performed in root samples under control, mild drought, and severe drought conditions. mRNA sequencing revealed 66,476 unigenes, and the differentially expressed unigenes (DEGs) were associated with several key pathways, including phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, sugar metabolism, and quinolizidine alkaloid biosynthesis pathways. A total of 10 and 30 transcription factors (TFs) were identified among the DEGs under mild and severe drought stress, respectively. Moreover, small RNA sequencing revealed a total of 368 miRNAs, including 255 known miRNAs and 113 novel miRNAs. The differentially expressed miRNAs and their target genes were involved in the regulation of plant hormone signal transduction, the spliceosome, and ribosomes. Analysis of the regulatory network involved in the response to drought stress revealed 37 differentially expressed miRNA-mRNA pairs. Conclusion: This is the first study to simultaneously profile the expression patterns of mRNAs and miRNAs on a genome-wide scale to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of the drought stress responses of S. tonkinensis. Our results suggest that S. tonkinensis implements diverse mechanisms to modulate its responses to drought stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aerosol acidity (pH), one of key properties of fine-mode particulate (PM2.5), depends largely on nitrate and sulfate in particle. The mass contribution of nitrate relative to sulfate in PM2.5 has tended to increase in many regions globally, but how this change affects aerosol pH remains in debate. In this way, we measured PM2.5 ionic species and oxygen isotopic composition of nitrate in the eastern China, and predicted aerosol pH using the ISORROPIA-II model. When nitrate to sulfate molar ratio increases and thus PM2.5 is gradually enriched in ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3), aerosol pH tends to increase. The oxidation of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) by hydroxyl radical is responsible for most of nitrate formation (generally above 60%). These indicate that nitrate formation through gas-to-particle conversion involving ammonia and nitric acid results in increasing aerosol pH with increasing molar ratio of nitrate to sulfate. Conversely, aerosol pH is expected to decrease with increasing relative abundance of nitrate as ammonia emissions are lowered. Our research concludes that it should be considered to reduce aerosol NH4NO3 by reducing the precursors of nitric oxide and ammonia emissions, to substantially improve the air quality (i.e., reduce PM2.5 levels and potential nitrate deposition) in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sedimentary, paleogeomorphological and reservoir characteristics of the Jurassic Yan'an Formation in the southwestern Ordos Basin, northwestern China, were studied by means of casting thin sections, scanning electron microscopy, inclusion analysis and identification of low‐amplitude structures. A model for reservoir formation is established, and the controlling effects of sedimentary facies, paleotopography, low‐amplitude structures and formation water on oil reservoirs are revealed. There are significant differences in the sedimentary characteristics, structural morphology and paleowater characteristics between the reservoirs above the Yan 10 Member and those in the Yan 9 to Yan 7 Members. The Yan 10 Member contains fluvial sediments, whereas the Yan 9 to Yan 7 members contain delta‐plain anastomosing‐river deposits. The distribution of high‐permeability reservoir is controlled by pre‐Jurassic paleogeomorphology and sedimentary facies. Some of these facies exhibit high porosity and high permeability in a low‐permeability background. The main hydrocarbon accumulation period was the late Early Cretaceous, filling was continuous, and the charging strength altered from weak to strong and then from strong to weak. The Yan 10 reservoir is mainly controlled by the paleogeomorphology: hydrocarbons migrated upward at a high speed through the unconformity surface, and accumulated in the favorable traps formed by paleogeomorphic structural units, such as gentle slopes or channel island. Furthermore, groundwater alternation in these areas was relatively stagnant, providing good reservoir preservation conditions. The reservoirs in the Yan 9 and higher members are controlled by the sedimentary facies, low‐amplitude structure and paleowater characteristics. Hydrocarbons migrated through the three‐dimensional delivery system, influenced by favorable sedimentary facies and high‐salinity groundwater, then accumulated in the favorable low‐amplitude structural traps that formed during the hydrocarbon production period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Through in-depth analysis of sedimentary source, lake basin shape and tectonic events as well as careful study of high quality source rocks, reservoir-forming force and history in the Huaqing area, Ordos Basin, the accumulation mode of large low-permeability lithologic oil regions in the middle of the lake basin was established. The Ordos Basin is a typical inland depressed basin during the depositional period of the Upper Triassic Yanchang Formation. Rich-nutrient lake-basin sediments are developed in the Chang-7 Member during the maximum flooding period. High-quality source rocks of the Chang-7 Member have the characteristics of high abundance of organic matter, strong ability of hydrocarbon generation and expulsion, and wide distribution in Huaqing in the central basin. Delta is developed extensively in the depositional period of Chang-6 Member. Influenced by rich provenance and the bottom shape of slope break belts, thick layers of reservoir sands originated from the delta front and gravity flow are developed in the Chang-6 Member in Huaqing, and the favorable sedimentary facies and diagenetic facies control the extensive low-permeability reservoirs. The Chang-6 low-permeability reservoirs and the Chang-7 high-quality source rocks have a good association and form an accumulation mode characterized by “hydrocarbon-generating pressurization, proximal migration and accumulation, large-area charging, and continuous oil layers”. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• The trophic positions of the organisms in Poyang Lake ranged from 1.0 ± 0.1–3.7 ± 0.2 based on amino acid approach. • The trophic positions based on bulk isotopic approach was general higher than that on amino acid approach. • The trophic magnification factor of MeHg based on bulk and amino acid approach was estimated to be 5.7 and 9.5, respectively. • Log-MeHg was significantly and positively correlated with cysteine levels (R2 = 0.64, p < 0.01). • The trophic magnification factor of MeHg with or without cysteine normalization compared well when excluding primary producer. As the dominant mercury species in fish, methylmercury (MeHg) biomagnifies during its trophic transfer through aquatic food webs. MeHg is known to bind to cysteine, forming the complex of MeHg-cysteine. However, relationship between MeHg and cysteine in large-scale food webs has not been explored and contrasted with MeHg biomagnification models. Here, we quantified the compound-specific nitrogen isotopic analysis of amino acids (CSIA-AA), MeHg, and amino acid composition in aquatic organisms of Poyang Lake, the largest freshwater lake in China. The trophic positions (TP AA) of organisms ranged from 1.0 ± 0.1–3.7 ± 0.2 based on CSIA-AA approach. The trophic magnification factor (TMF) of MeHg, derived from the regression slope of Log-transformed MeHg in organisms upon their TP AA for the entire food web was 9.5 ± 0.5. Significantly positive regression between MeHg and cysteine (R2 = 0.64, p < 0.01) was documented, suggesting MeHg-cysteine complex may potentially play a critical role in the bioaccumulation of MeHg. Furthermore, TMFs of MeHg calculated with and without cysteine normalization compared well (7.7–8.7) when excluding primary producers. Our results implied that MeHg may biomagnify as the complex of MeHg-cysteine and contribute to our understanding of MeHg trophic transfer at the molecular level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the ground-level ozone pollution problem increasingly prominent in recent years in China, it is particularly important in basic researches on ozone contamination characteristics. In this study, 13 cities in Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei (BTH) area were examined to determine the characteristics of surface ozone (O3) from 2015 to 2018. Due to the photochemical oxidation of ozone precursors (such as nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide) along with the presence of sunlight and characteristics of local emission sources, the O3 and oxidant (OX) concentrations showed obvious seasonal variation and daily variation. It implicated that the O3 concentrations reached the maximum during summer. The concentrations of O3 were higher at daytime than those measured at nighttime. The ozone weekend effect was estimated by the difference and deviation, which exhibited that the difference between weekday and weekend were related to the concentrations of ozone precursors and PM, vehicle emissions, and solar radiation. Moreover, the O3 concentrations decreased with the increase of other air pollutants by correlation analysis. The ozone pollution was easily formed at light and moderate polluted periods when compared to other air quality levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the most important gas-phase alkaline species, atmospheric ammonia (NH 3) contributes considerably to the formation and development of fine-mode particles (PM 2.5), which affect air quality and environmental health. Recent satellite-based observations suggest that the North China Plain is the largest agricultural NH 3 emission source in China. However, our isotopic approach shows that the surface NH 3 in the intraregional urban environment of Beijing-Tianjin-Shijiazhuang is contributed primarily by combustion-related processes (i.e., coal combustion, NH 3 slip, and vehicle exhaust). Specifically, the Batch fractionation model was used to describe the partitioning of gaseous NH 3 into particles and to trace the near-ground atmospheric NH 3 sources. With the development of haze pollution, the dynamics of δ15N-NH 4 + were generally consistent with the fractionation model. The simulated initial δ15N-NH 3 values ranged from −22.6‰ to −2.1‰, suggesting the dominance of combustion-related sources for urban NH 3. These emission sources contributed significantly (92% on hazy days and 67% on clean days) to the total ambient NH 3 in urban cities, as indicated by a Bayesian mixing model. Based on the Batch fractionation model, we concluded the following: 1) δ15N-NH 4 + can be used to model the evolution of fine-mode aerosols and 2) combustion-related sources dominate the near-ground atmospheric NH 3 in urban cities. These findings highlight the need for regulatory controls on gaseous NH 3 emissions transported from local and surrounding industrial sources. Image 1 • δ15N-NH 4 + values of PM 2.5 in urban cities of NCP were higher on clean days than on hazy days. • Simulated initial δ15N-NH 3 values ranged from −22.6‰ to −2.1‰ based on a Batch model. • Surface NH 3 in the urban environment is dominated by combustion-related processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we measured the daily water-soluble inorganic ions (WSIIs) concentration (including SO42−, NO3−, NH4+, Ca2+, K+, Cl−, Na+, Mg2+, and F−) of PM2.5 (particulate matter with a diameter smaller than 2.5 μm) throughout the year in Nanning (a typical subtropical monsoon climate city in southwestern China) to explore the influence of seasonal climate change on the properties of PM2.5 pollution. This suggested that SO42−, NO3−, and NH4+ were the main component of WSIIs in Nanning. Secondary inorganic ions from fossil fuel combustion, agricultural activities, and automobile emissions were the main contributors to PM2.5, contributing more than 60% to PM2.5. Compared with the wet season, the contributions of different sources increased in the dry season (including pollution days); of these sources, automobile emissions and coal combustion emissions increased the most (about nine times and seven times, respectively). Seasonal weather and climate change affected the concentration level of WSIIs. During the wet season, higher temperatures and abundant rainfalls contributed to the volatilization and removal of WSIIs in PM2.5, while in the dry season and on pollution days, lower temperatures and less precipitation, higher emissions, and poor diffusion conditions contributed to the accumulation of WSIIs in PM2.5. NH4HSO4, (NH4)2SO4 and NH4NO3 were the main chemical forms of secondary inorganic ions. Sufficient NH3, intense solar radiation, and moist particulate matter surface promoted the formation of secondary inorganic ions. The higher temperature contributed to the volatilization of secondary inorganic ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Chang 7 member of Triassic Yanchang Formation in the huger Ordos Basin in North China is important economically as a source of oil in the Triassic, but dating the Triassic successions has proved problematic, especially important oil-bearing units such as the Yanchang Formation. Here we analyze depositional ages, palaeoclimate conditions and palaeoenvironments of the Chang 6 to Chang 10 members of Yanchang Formation using SHRIMP U–Pb isotope dating, trace element composition and palynological analyses for samples from well F75 in the northwestern Ordos Basin. The geochronological and palynological data synthetically indicate that the Chang 7 member was deposited in the Ladinian (Middle Triassic) and the Chang 8 to Chang 10 members were deposited in the Anisian (Middle Triassic). Based on the trace element analysis, the palaeoenvironment abruptly changed in the early sedimentary stage of the Chang 7 member, representing warm and humid palaeoclimate, anoxic, brackish lake water and stronger chemical weathering. Therefore a humid paleoclimate event was recorded during the Chang 7 sedimentary period of the Middle Triassic, which provides a basis for the comparison with the global Triassic paleoclimatic event. It was inferred that the paleoclimate event was referred to palaeotopographic (the basin was surrounded by mountains on three sides and low terrain in the east) of the Ordos Basin, which was controlled by the Qinling orogeny and low-latitude warm and humid airflow of the paleo-Pacific Ocean associated with monsoons. • l It is suggested that the Chang 7 member and the Chang 8 to Chang 10 members of Yanchang Formation were deposited in the early Ladinian and late Anisian, respectively. • l The palaeoenvironment and paleoclimate abruptly changed to anoxic brackish water environment with warm and humid climate and strong chemical weathering during the deposition of the Chang 7 member. • l A humid paleoclimate event was recorded during the Chang 7 sedimentary period of the Middle Triassic, which provides a basis for the comparison with the global Triassic paleoclimatic event. • l The Chang 7 humid event was refered to palaeotopographic of the Ordos Basin, which was controlled by the Qinling orogeny and low-latitude warm and humid airflow of the paleo-Pacific Ocean associated with monsoons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrate (NO 3 −) is one of the most important inorganic ions in fine particulate (PM 2.5) and drives regional haze formation; however, the NO 3 − sources and formation mechanisms in different seasons and regions are still debated. Here, PM 2.5 samples were collected from Kunming and Nanning in southwestern China from September 1, 2017, to February 28, 2018 (spanning warm and cold months). We measured the daily O and N isotopic compositions of NO 3 − (δ18O–NO 3 − and δ15N–NO 3 −), estimated the δ18O–HNO 3 values produced by different oxidation pathways, and quantified the NO 3 − formation pathways based on the isotope mass-balance equation. Our results showed that the δ18O–NO 3 − values in Kunming (65.3 ± 7.6‰) and Nanning (67.7 ± 10.1‰) are close to the δ18O–HNO 3 values arising from the OH radical pathway (P OH , 54.7 ± 1.2‰ to 61.2 ± 1.8‰), suggesting that the δ18O–NO 3 − values are mainly influenced by P OH , which showed a contribution greater than 74%. Stronger surface solar radiation and higher air temperatures in low-latitude regions and warm months increased the amount of HNO 3 produced by P OH and reduced the amount of HNO 3 produced by P N2O5 , which produced low δ18O–NO 3 − values. Increased air pollution emissions decreased the contribution from P OH and increased the contribution from N 2 O 5 and NO 3 pathways (P N2O5+NO3). The δ15N–NO 3 − values of PM 2.5 in Kunming (7.3 ± 2.8‰) were slightly higher than those in Nanning (2.8 ± 2.7‰). The increased NO x emissions with positive isotopic values led to high δ15N–NO 3 − values in northern China and during cold months. A higher f NO2 (f NO2 = NO 2 /(NO + NO 2), temperature, and contribution of P OH produced lower N isotope fractionation between NO x and δ15N–NO 3 −, which was found to further decrease the δ15N–NO 3 – values in southwestern China and during warm months. • Daily δ18O–NO3 and δ15N– NO3 in PM2.5 were analyzed in Kunming and Nanning. • OH radical oxidation was the main oxidation pathway (>74%) of NOx. • NOx oxidation pathways were changed with latitude and season. • Sources and isotope fractionation affected regional and seasonal δ15N–NO3 values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In most of the urban atmosphere, the formation of ammonium (NH 4 +) is mainly controlled by the initial isotope value of ammonia (δ15N-NH 3 values) and the corresponding ammonia (NH 3) conversion ratio (NH 4 +/(NH 4 + + NH 3)), as N isotope fractionation may occur under an NH 3 -sufficient environment. The significant influence of δ15N-NH 3 values on the formation of NH 4 + in the urban atmosphere has been demonstrated by many previous studies; however, exploration of the effect of the NH 3 conversion ratios on NH 4 + formation has been limited, especially during pollution episodes. To better understand the NH 3 sources and the effect of the NH 3 conversion ratios on the formation of NH 4 + in the urban environment, NH 4 + concentrations (0.2 to 13.4 μg·m−3, average 3.9 ± 2.8 μg·m−3) and their δ15N values (−4.0‰ to 29.2‰, average 20.6‰ ± 6.1‰) in PM 2.5 were determined in the urban area of Nanning from September 1 to December 31, 2017. Based on the measured δ15N-NH 4 + values and the isotope fractionation that occurred during gas-to-particle partitioning, we estimated that the initial δ15N-NH 3 values were − 22.8‰ to 3.1‰ (average − 8.8‰ ± 5.5‰). These initial δ15N-NH 3 values were influenced by agricultural emission sources (−31.0‰ to −4.4‰), fossil fuel-related NH 3 emission sources (−14.6‰ to 10.1‰) and biomass combustion sources (12‰ and 23‰). Source apportionment indicated that these three potential NH 3 emission sources contributed 43%, 33% and 24% to the ambient NH 3 , respectively. On clean days, similar trends in initial δ15N-NH 3 and δ15N-NH 4 + values were observed, and there was an apparent positive linear correlation between these values (R2 = 0.70, p < 0.01). This suggested that the δ15N-NH 4 + signatures recorded changes in the NH 3 sources and that NH 4 + formation was controlled by the NH 3 sources on clean days. However, during different pollution episodes the variations in δ15N-NH 4 + values were consistent with the NH 4 + concentrations and the NH 4 +/(NH 4 + + NH 3) values, and there were negative linear correlation between these values (R2 > 0.6, p < 0.01). This suggested that the δ15N-NH 4 + signatures recorded NH 4 + evolution processes and that the increased NH 3 conversion ratios was the main reason for the development of NH 4 + and PM 2.5 in pollution episodes. We inferred that the decreased air temperature in cold months may stimulate the increased NH 3 conversion ratios, based on the negative correlation of NH 4 +/(NH 4 + + NH 3) values with air temperature (r = −0.63, p < 0.01). Unlabelled Image • Agricultural emissions were the main NH 3 sources (account for 43%) in Nanning. • Fossil fuel-related and biomass combustion emissions increased in cold months. • Increased NH 3 conversion ratio promoted NH 4 + and PM 2.5 evolution in pollution episode. • Decreased temperature in cold months might increase the NH 3 conversion ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A procedure to identify the viral genome was developed with virus-derived sRNAs. • P. heterophylla TuMV-ZR isolate (TuMV-ZR) were identified. • TuMV-ZR infectious clone effectively infected the medicinal plant P. heterophylla. • TuMV-ZR-based vectors continuously expressed foreign genes in P. heterophylla. Pseudostellaria heterophylla (P. heterophylla) is a popular Chinese medicinal herb that is cultivated widely in China. Viral infection is commonly encountered during the production of P. heterophylla. To identify viruses causing P. heterophylla disease, sRNA and mRNA libraries were built for 2 sets of P. heterophylla plants, one set that was planted only once (FGP) and one that was planted three consecutive three times (TGP) in a field, using virus-free tuberous roots as reproductive materials. A comprehensive procedure, including assembling virus-derived sRNA (vsRNA), assessing and cloning the full-length viral genome, building an infectious cloning vector and constructing a virus-based expression vector, was performed to identify viruses infecting P. heterophylla. Ultimately, 48 contig-related viruses were mined from 6 sRNA and 6 mRNA P. heterophylla libraries. A 9762-bp fragment was predicted to be the complete genome of TuMV virus. This sequence was cloned from P. heterophylla , and its infectivity was evaluated using the virus-infection model plant Nicotiana benthamiana (N. benthamiana) and host plant P. heterophylla. The resulting 9839-bp viral genome was successfully obtained from P. heterophylla and identified as a new P. heterophylla TuMV-ZR isolate. Simultaneously, TuMV-ZR infectious clones were shown to effectively infect P. heterophylla. Furthermore, TuMV-ZR expression vectors were developed, and the ability of a TuMV-ZR-based vector to express foreign genes was determined by analysis with the reporter gene EGFP. TuMV-ZR-based vectors were found to continuously express foreign genes in different organs of P. heterophylla throughout the whole vegetative period. In addition, TuMV-ZR vectors carrying EGFP accumulated in the tuberous roots of P. heterophylla , confirming that tuberous roots are key targets for viral infection and transmission. This study revealed the core pathogenicity of P. heterophylla mosaic virus and developed a new TuMV-ZR-based expression tool that led to long-term protein expression in P. heterophylla , laying the foundation for the identification of the mechanisms of P. heterophylla infection with mosaic viruses and developing tools to express value proteins in the tuberous roots of the medicinal plant P. heterophylla. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrate (NO 3 −) is a standout amongst the essential inorganic aerosols in the atmosphere. Stable isotopic constraint is a robust means to identify the oxidation mechanisms for atmospheric particulate nitrate (NO 3 −) production. However, rarely studies noted the heavily polluted environments of northwest China. In this study, fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) samples were gathered starting from December 2017 till April 2018 in the urban zone of Lanzhou, northwest China, and water-soluble ions, δ15N– NO 3 − and δ18O– NO 3 −, were analysed to explore the possible sources of NO 3 − aerosols. The average concentration of PM 2.5 was 63.1 ± 22.6 μg m−3, indicating severe fine PM pollution. The formation of secondary pollutants NO 3 −, SO 4 2−, and NH 4 + concentrations were higher in winter than in spring. The Ca2+, Na+, and Mg2+ concentrations were much higher in spring than in winter, and the concentration of Ca2+ was higher than those in other cities, which implies that the PM 2.5 concentration is significantly affected by dust. The δ15N and δ18O values were lower in warmer months, confirming that the contribution of each nitrate source and the oxidation pathways change similarly as the season transforms from cold to warm. The nitrogen sources were analysed using stable isotope analysis in R (SIAR). The results showed that coal combustion, biomass burning, vehicle exhausts, and soil microbial emissions account for 42.2 ± 9.9%, 27.8 ± 16.2%, 22.2 ± 12.3%, and 7.7 ± 5.2% of the nitrate in PM 2.5 in winter and 30.7 ± 11.4%, 28.3 ± 15.7%, 26.5 ± 14.4%, and 14.4 ± 6.9% in spring, respectively. The fractional contributions of coal combustion gradually increased in winter. These results are useful for reducing NO x emissions in urban environments and clarifying the relationship between regional NO x emissions and atmospheric NO 3 − pollution or deposition. [Display omitted] • PM 2.5 , water-soluble inorganic ions, δ15N–NO 3 - and δ18O– NO 3 − were characterized in Lanzhou. • The contribution of coal combustion to atmospheric gradually increased in winter. • In spring, the aerosol components of mineral dust have a catalytic effect on the heterogeneous reactions of N 2 O 5. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The Dabashan, a curved tectonic belt in the southern Qinling orogen, was formed as a result of the collision of the Qinling micro-plate and the Yangtze plate in the Late Triassic. This study shows that the Dabashan experienced multistage structural deformations. Two main deformational episodes are recognized, (1) foreland folding and thrusting due to the Late Triassic collision and (2) structural superposition during the Late Jurassic to Early Cretaceous. The northern Dabashan is typified by imbricate thrust sheets, whereas the southern Dabashan is characterized by occurrence of widespread superimposed folds. The early fold axis is orientated almost due north or NE–SW. The folding propagated southward and southwestward into the Sichuan basin from the Chengkou-Fangxian fault, which separates the southern from the northern Dabashan belts. It is concluded that the southern and northern Dabashan were two distinct domains, at least in early Mesozoic. This interpretation is important for understanding the tectonic evolution of the Qinling orogen and the collisional process of the North and South China plates. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Steam injection is the most popular used method in recovering heavy oil reservoirs. Many researchers were engaged in enhancing oil recovery (EOR) methods by using various well configurations. Laboratory experiments and field applications have verified the feasibility of extra-heavy oil recovery by steam injection using vertical injector -horizontal producer. It was also referred to as a steam assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) process. However, the characteristic of steam chamber growth and production performance during the vertical injector-horizontal producer steam injection process have not been fully understood. In this study, a 3D physical model was constructed to investigate the mechanisms of the steam injection process using vertical injector-horizonal producer. Numerical simulations were also conducted to verify the laboratory experiment and field application. In the aspect of steam chamber growth, the results revealed that three stages were included during the steam injection process. In the aspect of developing mechanisms, it can be divided into steam flooding and gravity drainage stages. Moreover, the results show that about 43.9% of original oil in place (OOIP) was produced in the gravity drainage stage. In addition, subcool showed significant difference in steam flooding and gravity drainage stages. The temperature distribution mode of the horizontal producer was analyzed and proved to be a significant factor that influences the production performance. Sensitivity analysis by using numerical simulation demonstrated that oil viscosity is the dominant factor that impact the production performance. The results guided the development of pilot test area in Xinjiang Oilfield, China. The study can provide a clearer understanding of the vertical injector-horizontal producer steam injection process in recovering heavy oil reservoirs. • The vertical injector- horizontal producer steam injection process was divided into three stages. • The dominant driving forces, steam flooding and gravity drainage, varies in different developing stages. • Production performance at different developing stages were analyzed, and most oil was developed by gravity drainage. • The results were used to guide the development of the pilot test area in Xinjiang Oilfield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Little updated observation of background aerosols in Central China is available since the clean air actions, despite increasing aerosols pollution in this region. PM 2.5 was sampled at Dongting Lake during September 2017 to August 2018 to probe the chemical characteristics of background PM 2.5 in Central China. We sampled aerosols at an urban site simultaneously. Annual mean PM 2.5 level reached 43.4 μg m−3, and SO 4 2−, NO 3 −, and NH 4 + (sulfate–nitrate–ammonium, simplified as SNA) accounted for 22.8%, 26.8%, and 15.0%, respectively. PM 2.5 and most ions levels were highest during winter and lowest during summer. PM 2.5 mass was driven by NO 3 − during cold months (October–March) or SO 4 2− during warm months (September, April–August), suggesting that different emission control measures should be applied in different seasons in future air quality policy of this region. Both SO 4 2− and NO 3 − were almost completely neutralized by NH 4 +. Low temperature increased the SO 4 2− concentration and sulfur oxidation ratio. Low temperature also facilitated the partition of NO 3 − from gas phase into particle phase. Severe particulate pollutions occurred in cold months when the diffusion and wet scavenging of aerosols and volatilization of NH 4 NO 3 were weak, and the NO 2 concentration was high. An interesting finding was the highest NO 3 − concentration and conversion ratios for SNA as well as lowest SO 4 2− concentration in Dongting Lake among major background sites, despite low levels of local gaseous precursors. Industry, secondary SO 4 2−, and NO 3 − were indentified as main sources of PM 2.5 mass based on PMF analysis. Concurrent occurrences of PM 2.5 and SNA pollution at Dongting Lake and Wuhan sites as well as back trajectories verified the regional effect. The results will be helpful for investigating water–soluble ions and the major sources as well as geographical origins for PM 2.5 at Central China. • Severe PM 2.5 pollution occurred in Dongting Lake site and was driven by NO 3 −. • NO 3 − concentration and conversion ratios for SNA were highest in Dongting Lake among major background sites. • Impacts of regional transport on the background areas of Central China can not be ignored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mitigating ammonia (NH 3 ) emissions is a significant challenge, given its well-recognized role in the troposphere, contributing to secondary particle formation and impacting acid rain. The difficulty arises from the highly uncertain attribution of atmospheric NH 3 to specific emission sources, especially when accounting for diverse environments and varying spatial and temporal scales. In this study, we established a refined δ 15 N fingerprint for eight emission sources, including three previously overlooked sources of potential importance. We applied this approach in a year-long case study conducted in urban and rural sites located only 40 km apart in the Shandong Peninsula, North China Plain. Our findings highlight that although atmospheric NH 3 concentrations and seasonal trends exhibited similarities, their isotopic compositions revealed significant distinctions in the primary NH 3 sources. In rural areas, although agriculture emerged as the dominant emission source (64.2 ± 19.5%), a previously underestimated household stove source also played a considerably greater role, particularly during cold seasons (36.5 ± 12.5%). In urban areas, industry and traffic (33.5 ± 15.6%) and, surprisingly, sewage treatment (27.7 ± 11.3%) associated with high population density were identified as the major contributors. Given the relatively short lifetime of atmospheric NH 3 , our findings highlight the significance of the isotope approach in offering a more comprehensive understanding of localized and seasonal influences of NH 3 sources compared to emissions inventories. The refined isotopic fingerprint proves to be an effective tool in distinguishing source contributions across spatial and seasonal scales, thereby providing valuable insights for the development of emission mitigation policies aimed at addressing the increasing NH 3 burden on the local atmosphere.

Cold seeps are deep-sea 'oases' with dense and dominant coexisting populations of large mussels and tubeworms under extreme environments. Under such natural source of high metal concentrations, the present study investigated the metal bioaccumulation and transfer with trophic positions in six benthic species by the isotopic δ 15 N and δ 13 C signatures in the active Haima cold seep, South China Sea. Comparing the isotopic signatures of bulk-tissue and amino acids by compound-specific isotopic analysis (CSIA-AA), we found that the bulk trophic (TP B ) values in the benthos except mussels were significantly higher than those of CSIA-based TP Glu-Phe values. The estimated CSIA-based TP Glu-Phe values showed a relatively compressed food chain with much changeable and unique amino acid isotopic heterogeneity, followed slim tubeworms (1.20)

The determination of both stable nitrogen (δ 15 N-NO 3 - ) and stable oxygen (δ 18 O-NO 3 - ) isotopic signatures of nitrate in PM 2.5 samples were collected in the megacity of Beijing, China during the winter of 2017-2018, and this new approach was used to reveal the origin and oxidation pathways of atmospheric NOx. Specifically, the potential of field δ 2 ). In the present study, daily PM 2.5 samples were collected in the megacity of Beijing, China during the winter of 2017-2018, and this new approach was used to reveal the origin and oxidation pathways of atmospheric NOx. Specifically, the potential of field δ 15 N-NO 3 - signatures for determining the NOx oxidation chemistry was explored. Positive correlations between δ 18 O-NO 3 - and δ 15 N-NO 3 - were observed (with R 2 between 0.51 and 0.66, p < 0.01), and the underlying environmental significance was discussed. The results showed that the pathway-specific contributions to NO 3 - formation were approximately 45.3% from the OH pathway, 46.5% from N 2 O 5 hydrolysis, and 8.2% from the NO 3 +HC channel based on the δ 18 O-δ 15 N space of NO 3 - . The overall nitrogen isotopic fractionation factor (εN) from NOx to NO 3 - on a daily scale, under winter conditions, was approximately +16.1‰±1.8‰ (consistent with previous reports). Two independent approaches were used to simulate the daily and monthly ambient NOx mixtures (δ 15 N-NOx), respectively. Results indicated that the monthly mean values of δ 15 N-NOx compared well based on the two approaches, with values of -5.5‰ ± 2.6‰, -2.7‰ ± 1.9‰, and -3.2‰ ± 2.2‰ for November, December, and January (2017-2018), respectively. The uncertainty was in the order of 5%, 5‰ and 5.2‰ for the pathway-specific contributions, the εN, and δ 15 N-NOx, respectively. Results also indicated that vehicular exhaust was the key contributor to the wintertime atmospheric NOx in Beijing (2017-2018). Our advanced isotopic perspective will support the future assessment of the origin and oxidation of urban atmospheric NOx., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) occurs in 9% to 34% of herpes zoster (HZ) patients, and the incidence of PHN is positively correlated with age. A number of patients suffer from poor therapeutic effects or intolerable side effects and need to accept minimally invasive analgesia., Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effects of spinal cord stimulation (SCS) and pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) on the treatment of elderly patients with HZ-related pain persisting beyond the acute phase., Study Design: A prospective, randomized-controlled trial., Setting: Research was conducted at the National Pain Management and Research Center, China-Japan Friendship Hospital (Beijing, China)., Methods: We selected 63 patients aged over 50 years with zoster-related pain of 1 to 6 months onset. They were randomly divided into an SCS group and a PRF group. In the SCS group, the stimulus electrodes were placed in the affected spinal ganglion segment of the epidural space for 2 weeks. In the PRF group, the radiofrequency needle was percutaneously punctured in the affected dorsal root ganglion. The main outcome measures were the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS-11) score, response rate, and complete remission rate. The secondary endpoint was defined as the use of analgesics and calcium channel antagonists., Results: The NRS-11 score in the SCS group decreased to 2.90 ± 1.83 (1 week post operation) and 4.37 ± 2.43 (24 weeks post operation), while that in the PRF group decreased to 3.13 ± 1.78 and 4.23 ± 2.64, respectively (compared with baseline, P < .001); there was no significant difference between the 2 groups (P > .05) . The effective rate of pain management was in the range of 56.67% to 81.25%, and the complete pain relief rate ranged from 37% to 71%. The number of patients still using analgesics and calcium channel antagonists after operation were significantly less than those pre-operation (P < .001). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that the operation method, age, gender, and course of disease did not affect surgical efficacy., Limitations: The main limitation of this study is that all the cases were from the same center., Conclusion: It therefore can be concluded that SCS and PRF can effectively relieve PHN., Key Words: Spinal cord stimulation, pulsed radiofrequency, postherpetic neuralgia.

As the most important gas-phase alkaline species, atmospheric ammonia (NH 3 ) contributes considerably to the formation and development of fine-mode particles (PM 2.5 ), which affect air quality and environmental health. Recent satellite-based observations suggest that the North China Plain is the largest agricultural NH 3 emission source in China. However, our isotopic approach shows that the surface NH 3 in the intraregional urban environment of Beijing-Tianjin-Shijiazhuang is contributed primarily by combustion-related processes (i.e., coal combustion, NH 3 slip, and vehicle exhaust). Specifically, the Batch fractionation model was used to describe the partitioning of gaseous NH 3 into particles and to trace the near-ground atmospheric NH 3 sources. With the development of haze pollution, the dynamics of δ 15 N-NH 4 + were generally consistent with the fractionation model. The simulated initial δ 15 N-NH 3 values ranged from -22.6‰ to -2.1‰, suggesting the dominance of combustion-related sources for urban NH 3 . These emission sources contributed significantly (92% on hazy days and 67% on clean days) to the total ambient NH 3 in urban cities, as indicated by a Bayesian mixing model. Based on the Batch fractionation model, we concluded the following: 1) δ 15 N-NH 4 + can be used to model the evolution of fine-mode aerosols and 2) combustion-related sources dominate the near-ground atmospheric NH 3 in urban cities. These findings highlight the need for regulatory controls on gaseous NH 3 emissions transported from local and surrounding industrial sources., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

This study was designed to investigate the impact of cytochrome P450 (CYP) 1A2 polymorphisms on theophylline metabolism in a non-smoking healthy male Chinese population. Four polymorphisms CYP1A2 1C (G-3860A), G-3113A, CYP1A2 1F (C-163A) and CYP1A2 1B (C-5347T) were screened in 238 unrelated male volunteers. Then, a single oral 200-mg dose of theophylline was administered to 37 volunteers, who were selected from 238 volunteers based on the CYP1A2 genotype. CYP1A2 activities were evaluated by plasma 1,7-dimethylxanthine/caffeine ratios (17X/137X) after administration of 100-mg caffeine. The plasma concentrations of theophylline, 17X and 137X were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. The activity of CYP1A2 was lower in volunteers with the -3113 AA genotype compared with those with the -3113 AG genotype (0.35 ± 0.04 versus 0.48 ± 0.07, p = 0.016) or the -3113 GG genotype (0.35 ± 0.04 versus 0.58 ± 0.22, p = 0.037). CYP1A2 1F polymorphisms were associated with increased CYP1A2 activity in volunteers with -3860G/-3113G/5347C homozygosity (0.66 ± 0.24 versus 0.46 ± 0.05, p = 0.034). However, theophylline metabolism showed no difference among volunteers carrying different haplotype pairs. CYP1A2 genetic polymorphisms influenced CYP1A2 enzyme activity as measured by caffeine, but CYP1A2 gene polymorphisms appeared to have limited influence on theophylline metabolism in our study., (© 2012 The Authors Basic & Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology © 2012 Nordic Pharmacological Society.)

Objectives: The currently used predictive equations of lung function in North China were derived from early study and have not been updated for nearly two decades., Methods: Using American Thoracic Society (ATS) standards, sex-specific spirometric predictive equations for forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV(1)), ratio of FEV(1) to FVC (FEV(1)%) and forced expiratory flow at 25-75% of forced vital capacity (FEF(25-75%)) were derived from 2,897 asymptomatic, lifelong non-smokers (1,208 males, 1,689 females) from a large occupational population in North China. Stepwise multiple regressions were carried out to identify the best predictors of lung function parameters and predictive equations. Independent variables considered for inclusion in predictive equations including age, height, weight and chest circumference were examined., Results: Age and height were found to be necessary variables for all lung function parameters. Weight was a significant variable in only half of our equations. Chest circumferences (expired or inspired) was excluded as they are not practical in use. Data from 255 apparently healthy non-smokers were used to validate the equations by comparing percentage predicted values and proportion of subjects with normal predicted values with those from the study group, and a high accordance was obtained. Other equations published and used in North China do not appear to offer advantages over these equations., Conclusions: These newly developed predictive equations should ideally be applied to calculate lung function for adult individuals and populations as reference values in North China.