Search Results (303)

This study investigates the uplift and exhumation history of the southern segment of the western margin of the Ordos Basin using low-temperature thermochronology, including zircon (U-Th)/He (ZHe), apatite fission-track (AFT), and apatite (U-Th)/He (AHe) data, combined with thermal history modeling. The study area exhibits a complex structural framework shaped by multiple deformation events, leading to the formation of extensively developed fault systems. Such faulting can adversely affect hydrocarbon preservation. To better constrain the timing of fault reactivation in this area, we carried out an integrated study involving low-temperature thermochronology and burial history modeling. The results reveal a complex, multi-phase thermal-tectonic evolution since the Late Paleozoic. The ZHe ages (291–410 Ma) indicate deep burial and heating related to Late Devonian–Early Permian tectonism and basin sedimentation, reflecting early orogenic activity along the western North China Craton. During the Late Jurassic to Early Cretaceous (165–120 Ma), the study area experienced widespread and differential uplift and cooling, controlled by the Yanshanian Orogeny. Samples on the western side of the fault show earlier and more rapid cooling than those on the eastern side, suggesting a fault-controlled, basinward-propagating exhumation pattern. The cooling period indicated by AHe data and thermal models reflects the Cenozoic uplift, likely induced by far-field compression from the rising northeastern Tibetan Plateau. These findings emphasize the critical role of inherited faults not only as thermal-tectonic boundaries during the Mesozoic but also as a pathway for hydrocarbon migration. Meanwhile, thermal history models based on borehole data further reveal that the study area underwent prolonged burial and heating during the Mesozoic, reaching peak temperatures for hydrocarbon generation in the Late Jurassic. The timing of major cooling events corresponds to the main stages of hydrocarbon expulsion and migration. In particular, the differential uplift since the Mesozoic created structural traps and migration pathways that likely facilitated hydrocarbon accumulation along the western fault zones. The spatial and temporal differences among the samples underscore the structural segmentation and dynamic response of the continental interior to both regional and far-field tectonic forces, while also providing crucial constraints on the petroleum system evolution in this tectonically complex region. Full article

In the context of the evolving global energy landscape, tight gas fields have gained in-creasing significance due to their low-porosity and low-permeability reservoirs, where natural fractures play a critical role in improving permeability and enhancing storage capacity. Foreland basins, such as the Dibei area in the northern Kuqa Depression of the Tarim Basin, are typical hosts for tight gas reservoirs, but the complex fracture development induced by multiple tectonic movements restricts natural gas exploration. This study employs core observation, imaging logging analysis, and thin-section microscopy to characterize the genetic types and development features of natural fractures in the Ahe Formation. Results show that 54% of natural fractures in the Dibei area are structurally originated, predominantly high-angle and open. The highest fracture density (0.351 fractures/m), six times that of other regions, occurs in the upper horst zones. Three fracture patterns are identified, namely fault–fold, fault-related, and monocline types. Fault–fold fractures are most developed due to folding and thrusting, while monocline zones are poorly fractured. Structural fractures are best developed in horst crests with fault–fold patterns. Fracture development is jointly controlled by folds, faults, stress, and lithology, with distinct characteristics across different structural positions and lithological combinations. Clarifying the development characteristics and distribution patterns of natural fractures in the Ahe Formation of the Dibei area facilitates accurate evaluation of high-quality reservoirs, providing crucial geological basis for optimizing hydrocarbon sweet spots and refining accumulation models in the region. Full article

Due to its unique layered structure that facilitates ion intercalation and deintercalation, δ-MnO₂ has emerged as a promising cathode material for aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs). However, its structural collapse and Mn dissolution during prolonged cycling significantly limit its practical application. In this study, we demonstrate that metal ion doping, particularly with Fe³⁺, can effectively stabilize the δ-MnO₂ structure and enhance its electrochemical performance. Through a hydrothermal synthesis approach, δ-MnO₂ materials with varying Fe³⁺ doping ratios are prepared and systematically investigated. Among them, the sample with a Mn:Fe molar ratio of 20:1 exhibits the best performance, maintaining the layered δ-MnO₂ phase while significantly increasing Mn³⁺ content and promoting the formation of oxygen vacancies. At a current density of 0.5 A·g⁻¹, the iron-doped sample exhibited an initial specific capacity of 116.24 mAh·g⁻¹, with a capacity retention rate of 41.7% after 200 cycles. In contrast, the undoped δ-MnO₂ showed an initial specific capacity of only 85.15 mAh·g⁻¹, with a capacity retention rate of merely 19.9% after 200 cycles. The results suggest that Fe³⁺ doping not only suppresses Mn dissolution but also improves structural stability and Zn²⁺ transport kinetics. This work provides new insights into the development of durable Mn-based cathode materials for aqueous ZIBs. Full article

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have attracted extensive attention as a distinguished electrochemical energy storage system due to their high energy density and long cycle life. However, the initial irreversible lithium loss during the first cycle caused by the formation of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) leads to the prominent reduction in the energy density of LIBs. Notably, lithium formate (HCOOLi, LFM) is regarded as a promising cathode prelithiation reagent for effective lithium supplementation due to its high theoretical capacity of 515 mAh·g⁻¹. Nevertheless, the stable Li-O bond of LFM brings out the high reaction barrier accompanied by the high decomposition potential, which impedes its practical applications. To address this issue, a feasible strategy for reducing the reaction barrier has been proposed, in which the decomposition potential of LFM from 4.84 V to 4.23 V resulted from the synergetic effects of improving the electron/ion transport kinetics and catalysis of transition metal oxides. The addition of LFM to full cells consisting of graphite anodes and LiNi_0.834Co_0.11Mn_0.056O₂ cathodes significantly enhanced the electrochemical performance, increasing the reversible discharge capacity from 156 to 169 mAh·g⁻¹ at 0.1 C (2.65–4.25 V). Remarkably, the capacity retention after 100 cycles improved from 72.8% to 94.7%. Our strategy effectively enables LFM to serve as an efficient prelithiation additive for commercial cathode materials. Full article

Eco-migration (EM) constitutes a specialized form of migration aimed at enhancing living environments and alleviating ecological pressure. Nevertheless, large-scale external migration has intensified habitat fragmentation (HF) in resettlement areas. This paper takes the Shule River Resettlement Project (SRRP) as a case, based on the China Land Cover Dataset (CLCD) data of the resettlement area from 1996 to 2020, using the Landscape Pattern Index (LPI) and the land use transfer matrix (LTM) to clearly define the stages of migration and the types of resettlement areas and to quantitative explore how EM affects HF. The results show that (1) EM accelerates the transformation of natural habitats (NHs) to artificial habitats (AHs) and shows the characteristics of sudden changes in the initial stage (1996–2002), with stability in the middle stage (2002–2006) and late stage (2007–2010) and dramatic changes in the post-migration stage (2011–2020). In IS, MS, LS, and PS, AH increased by 26.145 km², 21.573 km², 22.656 km², and 16.983 km², respectively, while NH changed by 73.116 km², −21.575 km², −22.655 km², −121.82 km², and −213.454 km², respectively. The more dispersed the resettlement areas are the more obvious the expansion of AH will be, indicating that the resettlement methods for migrants have a significant effect on habitat changes. (2) During the resettlement process, the total number of plaques (NP), edge density (ED), diversity (SHDI), and dominance index (SHEI) all continued to increase, while the contagion index (C) and aggregation index (AI) continued to decline, indicating that the habitat is transforming towards fragmentation, diversification, and complexity. Compared with large-scale migration bases (LMBs), both small-scale migration bases (SMBs), and scattered migration settlement points (SMSPs) exhibit a higher degree of HF, which reflects how the scale of migration influences the extent of habitat fragmentation. While NHs are experiencing increasing fragmentation, AHs tend to show a decreasing trend in fragmentation. Ecological migrants play a dual role: they contribute to the alteration and fragmentation of natural habitat patterns, while simultaneously promoting the formation and continuity of artificial habitat structures. This study offers valuable practical insights and cautionary lessons for the resettlement of ecological migrants. Full article

Various pretreatment methods for the valorization of sunflower husks (SHs) for H₂ gas generation through fermentation by Escherichia coli were investigated. We analyzed thermal treatment (TT), acid hydrolysis (AH), and alkaline hydrolysis (AlkH) at different substrate concentrations (50 g L⁻¹, 75 g L⁻¹, 100 g L⁻¹, and 150 g L⁻¹) and dilution levels (undiluted, 2× diluted, and 5× diluted). A concentration of 75 g L⁻¹ SH that was acid-hydrolyzed and dissolved twice in the medium yielded optimal microbial growth, reaching 0.3 ± 0.1 g cell dry weight (CDW) L⁻¹ biomass. The highest substrate level enabling effective fermentation was 100 g L⁻¹, producing 0.37 ± 0.13 (g CDW) × L⁻¹ biomass after complete fermentation, while 150 g L⁻¹ exhibited pronounced inhibitory effects. It is worth mentioning that the sole alkaline treatment was not optimal for growth and H₂ production. Co-fermentation with glycerol significantly enhanced both biomass formation (up to 0.42 ± 0.15 (g CDW) × L⁻¹)) and H₂ production. The highest H₂ yield was observed during batch growth at 50 g L⁻¹ SH hydrolysate with 5× dilution, reaching up to 5.7 mmol H₂ (g sugar)⁻¹ with glycerol supplementation. This study introduces a dual-waste valorization strategy that combines agricultural and biodiesel industry residues to enhance clean energy generation. The novelty lies in optimizing pretreatment and co-substrate fermentation conditions to maximize both biohydrogen yield and microbial biomass using E. coli, a widely studied and scalable host. Full article

This paper reports on the failure of cells with lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry tested under a range of conditions to understand their effect on the volume and composition of gas generated. Cells of the following formats, 26,650, pouch, and prismatic, and capacities ranging from 3 to 230 Ah, were subjected to external heat, overcharge, and nail penetration tests. Gas volume was calculated, and the following gases analysed: H₂, CO₂, CO, CH₄, C₂H₄, C₂H₆, C₃H₆, and C₃H₈. Cells that failed via external heating under inert conditions (N₂ or Ar atmosphere) at 100% state of charge (SoC) typically generated 0.7 L/Ah of gas; overcharged cells, 0.11–0.68 L/Ah; and nail penetration between 0.3 and 0.5 L/Ah. In general, for all test configurations, regardless of atmosphere, the total gas volume contained a 40% concentration of H₂, 15% of CO₂, and the remaining gas consisted of varying concentrations of CO and flammable hydrocarbons. This demonstrates that despite differences in gas volume, the failure gas composition of LFP cells remains similar. Full article

The cointercalation of solvated Mg²⁺ ions into graphite has typically been considered challenging because of concerns regarding the instability of the electrolyte and the potential for structural degradation. However, recent developments in electrolyte design suggest that this process may be reversible under appropriate conditions. In this study, the interfacial behavior of graphite in a magnesium-ion system was investigated using in situ electrochemical atomic force microscopy. Electrochemical tests in a triglyme-based electrolyte revealed a reversible capacity of 158 mAh g⁻¹, attributed to the insertion of triglyme-solvated Mg²⁺ ions. Real-time surface imaging of highly oriented pyrolytic graphite revealed the formation of a passivating surface film during the initial cycle, along with nanoscale hill-like (~1 nm) and blister-like (~5 nm) structures, which were partially reversible and showed good correlation with the redox peaks observed in the cyclic voltammetry experiments, suggesting that the surface film enables Mg²⁺ transport while mitigating electrolyte decomposition. These findings demonstrate that stable co-intercalation of solvated Mg²⁺ ions is achievable in the early cycles in graphite and highlight the importance of interfacial engineering and solvation structures in the development of magnesium-ion batteries. Full article

To enhance the specific energy and rate performance of lithium primary batteries, the development of advanced cathode materials with superior electrochemical properties is essential. Fluorides, composed of light fluorine elements and multivalent cations, exhibit multi-electron reaction characteristics, possess a high theoretical voltage, and demonstrate high discharge-specific energy. However, owing to fluorine’s high electronegativity, which leads to the formation of strong ionic bonds with other elements, most fluorides exhibit poor electronic conductivity, thereby constraining their electrochemical performance when used as cathode materials. Copper fluoride (CuF₂) exhibits a high theoretical specific capacity and discharge voltage but is constrained by its large bandgap, poor electronic conductivity, and difficulties in synthesizing anhydrous CuF₂ materials, which significantly limit its electrochemical activity. In this study, zinc (Zn) was chosen as a dopant for copper fluoride. By combining theoretical calculations with experimental validation, the impacts of Zn doping on the structural stability and electrochemical performance of copper fluoride were comprehensively analyzed. The resultant highly active Zn-doped copper fluoride achieved a discharge specific capacity of 528.6 mAh/g at 0.1 C and 489.1 mAh/g at 1 C, showcasing superior discharge-specific energy and good rate performance. This material holds great potential as a promising cathode candidate for lithium batteries, providing both high specific energy and power density. Full article

Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) is a progressive corneal disease characterized by corneal endothelial cell (CEC) loss and guttae formation. Elevated levels of Transforming Growth Factor-Beta 1 and 2 (TGF-β1/-β2) have been reported in the aqueous humor (AH) of FECD patients and have been implicated with abnormal extracellular matrix (ECM) production, endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT), the unfolded protein response, and cell death. However, how TGF-β signaling affects cell migration in FECD remains to be elucidated. In this study, we found that TGF-β2 levels were significantly elevated in the AH of FECD patients compared to controls. We performed bulk RNA sequencing on FECD CECs treated with TGF-β1 or TGF-β2 and identified the epithelial-to-mesenchymal (EMT) pathway as one of the top dysregulated pathways. We found that TGF-β1 and TGF-β2 increased EMT markers, filamentous-actin (F-actin) expression and produced more EMT-like phenotype in FECD and control CECs. We also observed that TGF-β1 and TGF-β2 significantly increased FECD CEC migration speed as detected by scratch assay and individual cell tracking and promoted individual cellular migration behavior. This study provides novel insight into FECD pathogenesis and how increased TGF-β signaling promotes EndoMT and alters cellular migration in FECD CECs. Full article

The Lower–Middle Jurassic of the Kuqa Depression consists of terrestrial clastic deposits containing coal seams and thick lacustrine mudstones, and is of great significance for oil and gas exploration. Based on the comprehensive analysis of core, well-logging, outcrop, and seismic data, the sequence stratigraphy, depositional systems, and the controlling factors of the basin filling in the depression are systematically documented. Four primary depositional systems, including braided river delta, meandering river delta, lacustrine, and swamp deposits, are identified within the Ahe, Yangxia, and Kezilenuer Formations of the Lower–Middle Jurassic. The basin fills can be classified into two second-order and nine third-order sequences (SQ1–SQ9) confined by regional or local unconformities and their correlative conformities. This study shows that the sedimentary evolution has undergone the following three stages: Stage I (SQ1–SQ2) primarily developed braided river, braided river delta, and shallow lacustrine deposits; Stage II (SQ3–SQ5) primarily developed meandering river, meandering river delta, and extensive deep and semi-deep lacustrine deposits; Stage III (SQ6–SQ9) primarily developed swamp (SQ6–SQ7), meandering river delta, and shore–shallow lacustrine deposits (SQ8–SQ9). The uplift of the Tianshan Orogenic Belt in the Early Jurassic (Stage I) may have facilitated the development of braided fluvial–deltaic deposits. The subsequential expansion of the sedimentary area and the weakened sediment supply can be attributed to the planation of the source area and widespread basin subsidence, with the transition of the depositional environments from braided river delta deposits to meandering river delta and swamp deposits. The regional expansion or rise of the lake during Stage II was likely triggered by the hot and humid climate conditions, possibly associated with the Early Jurassic Toarcian Oceanic Anoxic Event. The thick swamp deposits formed during Stage III may be controlled by the interplay of rational accommodation, warm and humid climatic conditions, and limited sediment supply. Milankovitch cycles identified in Stage III further reveal that coal accumulation was primarily modulated by long-period eccentricity forcing. Full article

This work shows how the presence of calcium carbonate and sodium carbonate (5% and 20%) affects the hydration of a commercial calcium sulfoaluminate clinker (KCSA). For this study, water-hydrated pastes were prepared and the mechanical compressive strength and hydration rate were determined. The hydration products were characterised by XRD, DTA/TG, FTIR and SEM. The incorporation of CaCO₃ can have a beneficial effect on the development of the mechanical strength of KCSA, especially at 90 days. It does not significantly alter the hydration kinetics and the hydration products formed are mainly ettringite and AH₃. However, sodium carbonate has a detrimental effect, slowing down the hydration kinetics and reducing the development of mechanical strength, especially at early ages. The 20% Na₂CO₃ favours the formation of calcium aluminate, gaylusite and thenardite over ettringite. These phases are metastable in the presence of sodium and decompose to form calcite, alumina gel and a large amount of thenardite, which leaches out as efflorescence, causing microcracks and loss of strength in the material. Full article

Aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs) have considerable potential for energy storage owing to their cost-effectiveness, safety, and environmental sustainability. However, dendrite formation, hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), and corrosion of the bare zinc (B-Zn) anode tremendously impact the performance degradation and premature failure of AZIBs. This study introduces a glancing angle deposition (GLAD) approach during the sputtering process to fabricate tellurium nanostructured (TeNS) at the zinc (Zn) anode to avoid the aforementioned issues with the B-Zn anode. Three different deposition times (5, 10, and 30 min) were used to prepare TeNS at the Zn anode. The morphology, crystallinity, composition, and wettability of the TeNSs were analyzed. The TeNSs served as hydrophilic sites and a protective layer, facilitating uniform Zn nucleation and plating while inhibiting dendrite formation and side reactions. Consequently, the symmetric cell with TeNS deposited on the Zn anode for 10 min (Te@Zn_10 min) demonstrated an enhanced cycling stability of 350 h, the lowest nucleation overpotential of 10.65 mV at a current density of 1 mA/cm², and an areal capacity of 0.5 mAh/cm². The observed enhancement in the cycling stability and reduction in the nucleation overpotential can be attributed to the optimal open area fraction of the TeNSs on the Zn surface, which promotes uniform Zn deposition while effectively suppressing side reactions. Full article

Environmental pollutants like PM2.5 contribute to chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), a contaminant sensor linked to tryptophan metabolites, is regulated by IL4I. However, how PM2.5 stimulation via IL4I1 influences AhR activation and CRS pathogenesis remains unclear. This study explored the IL4I1-AhR pathway in CRS using patient tissues, HNEpCs, and murine models. Methods included IHC, qRT-PCR, and WB under PM2.5 exposure, with further investigation into downstream effects on CYP1B1 and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). Significant upregulation of IL4I1, AhR, and CYP1B1 was observed in CRS tissues, with higher expression levels in CRS patients. Exposure to PM2.5 activated the IL4I1-AhR pathway, leading to decreased E-cadherin, increased N-cadherin and vimentin, and impaired nasal mucosal barrier function. In vitro experiments demonstrated that PM2.5-induced EMT in HNEpCs was mediated by IL4I1-dependent AhR activation. CH223191 reduced cell migration and EMT, while IL4I1 knockdown attenuated AhR activation and EMT marker expression. Murine models further confirmed that PM2.5 exacerbated nasal polyp formation and tissue remodeling via the IL4I1-AhR pathway. This study underscores the critical role of the IL4I1-AhR signaling pathway in PM2.5-induced nasal mucosal barrier dysfunction and EMT in CRS. IL4I1, as an upstream regulator of AhR, promotes EMT and nasal mucosal barrier disruption. Full article

Recent advancements in lithium-metal-based battery technology have garnered significant attention, driven by the increasing demand for high-energy storage devices such as electric vehicles (EVs). Lithium (Li) metal has long been considered an ideal negative electrode due to its high theoretical specific capacity (3860 mAh g⁻¹) and low redox potential. However, the commercialization of Li-metal batteries (LMBs) faces significant challenges, primarily related to the safety and cyclability of the negative electrodes. The formation of lithium dendrites and uneven solid electrolyte interphases, along with volumetric expansion during cycling, severely hinder the commercial viability of LMBs. Among the various strategies developed to overcome these challenges, the introduction of artificial protective layers and the structural engineering of current collectors have emerged as highly promising approaches. These techniques are critical for regulating Li deposition behavior, mitigating dendrite growth, and enhancing interfacial and mechanical stability. This review summarizes the current state of Li-negative electrodes and introduces methods of enhancing their performance using a protective layer and current collector design. Full article