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23 pages, 426 KB  
Article
Using the Socio-Ecological Model to Explore Parents’ Resilience and Perceptions of Adverse Childhood Experiences: A Qualitative Study in the Southeastern United States
by Maribel G. Dominguez, Christine Markham, Andrew E. Springer and Louis D. Brown
Healthcare 2026, 14(10), 1414; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14101414 - 21 May 2026
Viewed by 264
Abstract
Background: The negative impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on child development is documented. The parent–child relationship protects against ACEs and improves healthy child development, playing a crucial role in preventing and mitigating ACEs by strengthening parental resilience. However, there is a gap [...] Read more.
Background: The negative impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on child development is documented. The parent–child relationship protects against ACEs and improves healthy child development, playing a crucial role in preventing and mitigating ACEs by strengthening parental resilience. However, there is a gap in the literature on our understanding of parental resilience’s impact on the parent–child relationship within the social–ecological model (SEM) (i.e., intra- and interpersonal, community, and societal levels). Objective: This study explores parents’ perspectives on parental resilience as a protective factor for preventing and mitigating ACEs at every level of the SEM. Method: This study uses a thematic analysis approach for qualitative research. In-depth individual interviews (n = 21) were conducted with members of a parent support group (PSG) (85% female) based in a community-based organization serving families. Demographic information and ACE scores were collected for each participant to describe the sample. Results: Key findings highlighted parents’ perspectives on improved resilience through self-regulation and social support following participation in PSGs, conceptualized as an inter-level construct within the SEM mechanism due to its influence on parents’ well-being, traversing SEM levels. Under Theme 1: The Many Faces of Parental Resilience, Theme 3: The Power of Close Relationships, Theme 4: Community Resources as a Buffer, and Theme 7: Change Through a Policy Lens: “Anything that protects them,” parents expressed a strong desire for ACE prevention and mitigation strategies and called for systemic policy change to combat ACEs. Conclusions: Parental resilience perceptions are valuable and hold promise to inform the future institutionalization of a multi-level parent resilience-focused framework, which will aid in ACE prevention and mitigation. Full article
18 pages, 505 KB  
Article
Changes in Eating Behavior Among Children with Overweight or Obesity: Results of a Nutritional Intervention
by Luana de Paula Ivnuk, Ádelin Olivia Lopes Joly Rodrigues, Isabela Cristina Santos Freire de Paula, Carlos Henrique Pereira, Marina Amaro da Rocha Matuguma, Gustavo Hermes Soares, Renata Iani Werneck and Juliana Schaia Rocha Orsi
Nutrients 2026, 18(6), 1012; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18061012 - 23 Mar 2026
Viewed by 954
Abstract
Background/Objectives: This study aimed to explore perceived changes in the eating behavior of children with overweight and obesity following a nutritional intervention, considering the perspectives of children and their families participating in a specialized health promotion program. Methods: This qualitative study included five [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: This study aimed to explore perceived changes in the eating behavior of children with overweight and obesity following a nutritional intervention, considering the perspectives of children and their families participating in a specialized health promotion program. Methods: This qualitative study included five children aged 7 to 12 years and four family members enrolled in the ProSaúde Kids Program in southern Brazil. The study comprised three stages: initial semi-structured interviews; nine interactive nutritional workshops conducted from July to November 2024 with active family participation; and final interviews after the intervention. Recordings were transcribed and analyzed in ATLAS.TI® using the collective subject discourse approach, guided by Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory. Results: The intervention was associated with reported changes in perceptions and eating practices. Families described greater involvement of children in food decisions, perceived reductions in consumption of ultra-processed foods, and reported reorganization of eating routines. Children expressed increased critical awareness of food-related media content and greater appreciation of body diversity. Improvements in the quality of homemade school snacks suggested meaningful family engagement, even in the absence of direct school involvement. Conclusions: The workshops were described as encouraging reflection and supporting changes in attitudes and practices. Overall, the findings indicate potential positive shifts in eating behavior, greater awareness of food choices, and enhanced family participation in the behavior-change process. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Obesity)
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20 pages, 3542 KB  
Article
Geochemical Characteristics and Gas-Bearing Properties of Shale Gas in the Chang 7 Member of the Yanchang Formation, Ordos Basin
by Jin Han, Gaorun Zhong, Hengli Wang, Bangsheng Zhao, Yanjun Wu and Bingkun Meng
Minerals 2026, 16(3), 323; https://doi.org/10.3390/min16030323 - 19 Mar 2026
Viewed by 392
Abstract
Research on shale reservoir characteristics and the controlling factors of gas content is critical for predicting shale gas “sweet spots”. Based on integrated geochemical, mineralogical, and petrophysical analyses, this study investigates the mineral composition of shale and the influencing factors of gas content [...] Read more.
Research on shale reservoir characteristics and the controlling factors of gas content is critical for predicting shale gas “sweet spots”. Based on integrated geochemical, mineralogical, and petrophysical analyses, this study investigates the mineral composition of shale and the influencing factors of gas content in the Chang 7 Member of the Ordos Basin. The results show that (1) the shale clasts are mainly composed of quartz and feldspar, with the quartz contents in the range of 10.6%–29.7%, the feldspar contents in the range of 5.2%–38.2%, and the clay mineral contents in the range of 25.0%–70.5%. (2) The shale pore types include intergranular pores, granular dissolved pores and organic matter pores. The shale pores are mainly mesoporous and the pore sizes are mainly 6–9 nm with an average of 7.2 nm, accounting for 50% of the total pores population. (3) The shale kerogen maceral assemblage is composed primarily of the sapropel group, accounting for 77.2%–94.9% of the total macerals; vitrinite reflectance ranges from 0.80% to 1.13%, with a mean value of 0.83%. (4) The gas content of shale reservoirs is mainly controlled by temperature, pressure, total organic carbon (TOC) content, vitrinite reflectance, and reservoir physical properties. Among them, medium-to-large pores, TOC content, and pressure are the main controlling factors of shale gas content. The clay mineral content, vitrinite reflectance, and gas content constitute secondary controlling factors. Full article
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22 pages, 7235 KB  
Article
Geologically Constrained Optimization of Horizontal Well and Fracture Design in Tight Sandstone Reservoirs: Insights from the Chang 7 Member, Ordos Basin
by Na Deng, Boli Wang, Fei Ren, Wen Zhou, Hucheng Deng, Xiaoju Zhang and Xuquan Shi
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(6), 2687; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16062687 - 11 Mar 2026
Viewed by 409
Abstract
Efficient development of tight reservoirs in shallow-water delta-front environments is often constrained by misaligned horizontal well design and the underlying geological architecture. To address this, a quantitative optimization workflow is proposed, integrating 3D architectural characterization of single sandbodies with reservoir simulation. Using the [...] Read more.
Efficient development of tight reservoirs in shallow-water delta-front environments is often constrained by misaligned horizontal well design and the underlying geological architecture. To address this, a quantitative optimization workflow is proposed, integrating 3D architectural characterization of single sandbodies with reservoir simulation. Using the Chang 7 Member of the Ordos Basin as a case study, three dominant sandbody types—isolated channels, vertically stacked channels, and mouth bars—were characterized in terms of geometry, stacking pattern, and internal permeability anisotropy. High-resolution geological models incorporating stratigraphic cyclicity and heterogeneity were constructed. Local grid refinement around wellbores and fracture networks was implemented to improve simulation fidelity. Sensitivity analyses identified optimal values for horizontal section length, fracture stage, and fracture half-length for each sandbody architecture. The results indicate that production response is highly sensitive to sandbody geometry and heterogeneity, with diminishing returns observed beyond critical design thresholds. Field validation with three horizontal wells confirmed that optimized parameter sets aligned with geological architecture resulted in significantly improved and more stable oil production. To support application in similar reservoirs, a dimensionless design chart was developed using ratios of horizontal well length to sandbody length (Lh/Ls) and fracture length to sandbody width (Lf/Ws). This empirical tool enables rapid pre-drill assessments and informs well planning strategies aligned with sandbody architecture. By emphasizing the integration of geological and engineering disciplines, the approach offers a scalable framework for optimizing horizontal well design in geologically complex tight formations. Full article
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29 pages, 15170 KB  
Article
An Integrated Stratigraphy Study of a Paralic Lacustrine Basin: Insights into the Organic Matter Accumulation
by Meizhou Zhang, Xiaomin Zhu, Wenming Ji, Lei Ye, Xinping Zhou, Hongkui Chen, Xingyue Lin and Mianmo Meng
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2026, 14(5), 468; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse14050468 - 28 Feb 2026
Viewed by 574
Abstract
Several shale oil intervals, including those in offshore China, were deposited in paralic lacustrine basins that experienced marine incursions. Marine incursions could be either favorable or unfavorable for the accumulation of organic matter (OM) and shale oil. However, the influence and specific mechanisms [...] Read more.
Several shale oil intervals, including those in offshore China, were deposited in paralic lacustrine basins that experienced marine incursions. Marine incursions could be either favorable or unfavorable for the accumulation of organic matter (OM) and shale oil. However, the influence and specific mechanisms of seawater on OM accumulation require further in-depth investigation. During the deposition of the Triassic Chang 7 Member in the Ordos Basin, seawater from the Paleo-Tethys Ocean intruded into the basin. Taking this interval as a case study, this paper employs comprehensive analyses to reveal the influence of marine incursion on water column conditions and OM accumulation. Under humid climatic conditions, the water body was fresh to brackish, characterized by high productivity and oxic–dysoxic conditions. The OM is primarily derived from algae, and its accumulation was jointly controlled by primary productivity, redox conditions, and terrigenous input. OM accumulation is controlled by fluctuations in the relative water level (RWL) associated with third-order sequences. During the period of high RWL, seawater incursions enhanced water column productivity and reduced conditions by increasing nutrient supply and salinity, resulting in the highest OM content. During the early and late periods of the RWL, as seawater receded, OM production declined while consumption and dilution increased, resulting in a gradual decrease in its content. The RWL fluctuations at the fourth-order scale also significantly influence OM accumulation. These results can enhance the understanding of OM accumulation in paralic lacustrine basins with a history of seawater incursion. While promoting shale oil exploration in the Ordos Basin, they can also serve as a research analog for shale oil exploration in basins with similar geological backgrounds, such as the Bohai Bay Basin. Full article
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30 pages, 4495 KB  
Article
Characteristics of Source Rocks and Oil–Source Correlation in the Seventh Member of the Yanchang Formation (Chang 7 Member), Pingbei Area, Ordos Basin
by Yinyin Ma, Zhonggui Hu, Shengu Yang, Yahui Sun, Quansheng Cai, Cong Cheng and Qingjie Deng
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(4), 1939; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16041939 - 14 Feb 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 786
Abstract
To clarify the hydrocarbon generation potential of dark mudstones and the source of crude oil in the seventh member of the Yanchang Formation (Chang 7 Member) in the Pingbei area of the Ordos Basin, and to support tight oil exploration in this region, [...] Read more.
To clarify the hydrocarbon generation potential of dark mudstones and the source of crude oil in the seventh member of the Yanchang Formation (Chang 7 Member) in the Pingbei area of the Ordos Basin, and to support tight oil exploration in this region, this study focuses on the source rocks and crude oils from the Chang 7 Member. Comprehensive analyses including total organic carbon (TOC), rock pyrolysis, vitrinite reflectance (Ro), and saturated hydrocarbon gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) were conducted to systematically investigate the characteristics of source rocks and the geochemical properties of crude oils, and to perform oil–source correlation. The results indicate that the dark mudstones in the Chang 7 Member of the Pingbei area meet the geological conditions of effective source rocks: they exhibit high organic matter abundance with an average TOC content of 1.69% and strong heterogeneity, among which the Chang 73 sub-member has an average organic carbon content of 2.8%, conforming to the standard of high-quality source rocks; the organic matter type is dominated by Type II1, mixed with a small amount of Type II2 and Type III, characterized by both aquatic biological and terrestrial organic matter inputs; the Ro values range from 0.76% to 0.87%, indicating a mature stage corresponding to the peak period of liquid hydrocarbon generation. The crude oils in the study area can be classified into two types (Type A and Type B): Type A crude oil is distributed in deep reservoirs of the Chang 7 Member, while Type B crude oil is present in both shallow and deep layers. Oil–source correlation shows that Type A crude oil is highly consistent with the dark mudstones of the Chang 7 Member in terms of Pr/Ph ratio, rearranged hopane enrichment degree, and pentacyclic triterpane distribution pattern, clearly indicating that the Chang 7 Member dark mudstones are the main source rocks for Type A crude oil. In contrast, Type B crude oil is geochemically consistent with crude oils from the sixth member of the Yanchang Formation (Chang 6 Member) in oilfields surrounding the Pingbei area; it is derived from the Chang 6 Member source rocks in the peripheral regions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Earth Sciences)
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19 pages, 9943 KB  
Article
Identification of Natural Fractures in Shale Reservoirs Using a Multimodal Neural Network: A Case Study of the Chang 7 Shale Formation in the Ordos Basin
by Yawen He, Dalin Zhou, Yaxin Dun, Yulin Kou, Jing Ding, Wenzhao Sun, Shanshan Yang, Xin Zhang and Wei Dang
Processes 2026, 14(4), 657; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr14040657 - 14 Feb 2026
Viewed by 444
Abstract
Natural fractures are critical controls on shale oil storage and migration in the Upper Triassic Chang 7 Member of the Ordos Basin. However, conventional identification techniques—such as mud-invasion correction, R/S rescaled range analysis, and radioactive element analysis—are time-consuming, computationally intensive, and highly dependent [...] Read more.
Natural fractures are critical controls on shale oil storage and migration in the Upper Triassic Chang 7 Member of the Ordos Basin. However, conventional identification techniques—such as mud-invasion correction, R/S rescaled range analysis, and radioactive element analysis—are time-consuming, computationally intensive, and highly dependent on specialized logging data, limiting their large-scale application. To overcome these challenges, this study develops a multi-modal deep neural network that integrates conventional well logs with borehole imaging data. A coupled convolutional neural network (CNN) and deep neural network (DNN) architecture was constructed to predict fracture occurrence, dip angle, and aperture. The model achieves dip-angle prediction accuracies of 98.82% for both training and testing datasets, while aperture prediction accuracies reach 95.97% and 95.91%, respectively. Predicted dip angles are concentrated between 65° and 80°, deviating by less than 0.48° from measured values, whereas apertures fall mainly within 0.5–4.5 cm, with deviations below 0.21 cm except in extreme cases. The CNN branch effectively extracts spatial features from imaging logs, while the DNN branch captures nonlinear relationships in conventional logs. The integrated framework substantially improves fracture characterization accuracy and efficiency. This study provides a scalable and cost-effective approach for rapid fracture identification based on conventional logging data, reducing reliance on specialized imaging logs and supporting integrated geological and engineering evaluations in shale oil reservoirs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Energy Systems)
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25 pages, 8983 KB  
Article
Controls of Structural Evolution and Complex Lithologic Architecture on the Identification and Accumulation Mechanisms of Low-Contrast Reservoirs: A Case Study from the Chang 3 Member, Zhenbei Area, Ordos Basin
by Yanzhao Huang, Chuangfei Zhou, Huanguo Zhang, Zhanyong Shen, Xiaolong Li and Yushuang Zhu
Processes 2026, 14(3), 541; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr14030541 - 4 Feb 2026
Viewed by 391
Abstract
Low-resistivity reservoirs characterized by weak log contrasts are highly concealed and therefore difficult to detect using conventional oil–water discrimination methods. Recent exploration and development indicate that low-resistivity reservoirs are widely developed in the Triassic Chang 3 Member of the Zhenbei area, Ordos Basin. [...] Read more.
Low-resistivity reservoirs characterized by weak log contrasts are highly concealed and therefore difficult to detect using conventional oil–water discrimination methods. Recent exploration and development indicate that low-resistivity reservoirs are widely developed in the Triassic Chang 3 Member of the Zhenbei area, Ordos Basin. However, contrasting tectonic evolution associated with the Tianhuan Depression and complex lithologic assemblages in the western and eastern sectors have resulted in complicated hydrocarbon migration and accumulation processes. In this study, integrated well-log and geochemical data were used to systematically investigate the genesis of low-resistivity reservoirs in the Chang 3 Member and to establish oil–water discrimination charts. Three-dimensional seismic flattening was applied to restore the Late Jurassic paleostructure of the western Chang 3 Member and to analyze its tectonic evolution. Reservoir petrology and pore–throat architecture in the western and eastern areas were comparatively examined using thin-section petrography, field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and high-pressure mercury intrusion. Results indicate that the development of low-resistivity reservoirs in the Chang 3 Member is primarily controlled by highly saline formation water and elevated bound-water saturation. Based on these controls, the invasion factor–acoustic transit time cross-plot and the apparent spontaneous potential difference (ΔSP) method effectively discriminate oil- and water-bearing intervals in a total of 25 wells within the study area. Paleostructural restoration reveals that the western Chang 3 Member has undergone a tectonic inversion from a west-high–east-low configuration since the Late Jurassic to the present-day east-high–west-low geometry. Oil–source correlation indicates that hydrocarbons in the Chang 3 reservoirs were mainly derived from the underlying Chang 7 source rocks, whereas the bimodal distribution of fluid-inclusion homogenization temperatures suggests that the reservoirs experienced two distinct charging episodes. Integrated analysis suggests that tectonic inversion during the Yanshanian movement, combined with multistage hydrocarbon charging, led to secondary migration and partial destruction of early-formed reservoirs in the western area, resulting in predominantly scattered accumulations. In contrast, the eastern area experienced relatively limited tectonic modification, and laterally extensive accumulations are controlled by Type I–III lithologic–structural traps formed by the Chang 3 reservoir interval and its overlying strata. These findings provide an important geological basis for the identification of low-contrast reservoirs and for the exploration and development of hydrocarbon accumulations that are jointly controlled by tectonic evolution and lithologic heterogeneity. Full article
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17 pages, 3779 KB  
Article
Cycloastragenol Improves Fatty Acid Metabolism Through NHR-49/FAT-7 Suppression and Potent AAK-2 Activation in Caenorhabditis elegans Obesity Model
by Liliya V. Mihaylova, Martina S. Savova, Monika N. Todorova, Valeria Tonova, Biser K. Binev and Milen I. Georgiev
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(2), 772; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27020772 - 13 Jan 2026
Viewed by 1346
Abstract
Obesity is among the top contributing factors for non-communicable chronic disease development and has attained menacing global proportions, affecting approximately one of eight adults. Phytochemicals that support energy metabolism and prevent obesity development have been the subject of intense research endeavors over the [...] Read more.
Obesity is among the top contributing factors for non-communicable chronic disease development and has attained menacing global proportions, affecting approximately one of eight adults. Phytochemicals that support energy metabolism and prevent obesity development have been the subject of intense research endeavors over the past several decades. Cycloastragenol is a natural triterpenoid compound and aglycon of astragaloside IV, known for activating telomerase and mitigating cellular aging. Here, we aim to characterize the effect of cycloastragenol on lipid metabolism in a glucose-induced obesity model in Caenorhabditis elegans. We assessed the changes in the body length, width, and area in C. elegans maintained under elevated glucose through automated WormLab system. Lipid accumulation in the presence of either cycloastragenol (100 μM) or orlistat (12 μM), used as a positive anti-obesity control drug, was quantified through Nile Red fluorescent staining. Furthermore, we evaluated the changes in key energy metabolism molecular players in GFP-reporter transgenic strains. Our results revealed that cycloastragenol treatment decreased mean body area and reduced lipid accumulation in the C. elegans glucose-induced model. The mechanistic data indicated that cycloastragenol suppresses the nuclear hormone receptor family member NHR-49 and the delta(9)-fatty-acid desaturase 7 (FAT-7) enzyme, and activates the 5′-AMP-activated protein kinase catalytic subunit alpha-2 (AAK-2) and the protein skinhead 1 (SKN-1) signaling. Collectively, our findings highlight that cycloastragenol reprograms lipid metabolism by down-regulating the insulin-like receptor (daf-2)/phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (age-1)/NHR-49 signaling while simultaneously enhancing the activity of the AAK-2/NAD-dependent protein deacetylase (SIR-2.1) pathway. The anti-obesogenic potential of cycloastragenol rationalizes further validation in the context of metabolic diseases and obesity management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Mechanisms of Obesity and Metabolic Diseases)
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25 pages, 1399 KB  
Article
Coupled Mechanisms of Shale Oil Occurrence and Spontaneous Imbibition in the Chang 7 Member: Pore Structure Response and Evolution
by Tao Fan, Yufeng Zhou, Dongpo Shi, Yu Zhang, Shuobin Xiong and Hujun Gong
Processes 2026, 14(1), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr14010046 - 22 Dec 2025
Viewed by 535
Abstract
Lacustrine shale oil in the Chang 7 Member of the Ordos Basin is controlled by a multi-scale pore–throat system in which oil occurrence, spontaneous imbibition, and pore-structure evolution are tightly coupled. In this study, nitrogen adsorption and micro-computed tomography (μCT) were employed to [...] Read more.
Lacustrine shale oil in the Chang 7 Member of the Ordos Basin is controlled by a multi-scale pore–throat system in which oil occurrence, spontaneous imbibition, and pore-structure evolution are tightly coupled. In this study, nitrogen adsorption and micro-computed tomography (μCT) were employed to characterize pore-size distribution and connectivity, whereas nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) T2 relaxation was utilized to classify oil occurrence states, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) and total organic carbon (TOC) analyses were performed to determine mineralogical and organic compositions. Spontaneous imbibition experiments were conducted at 60 °C and subsequently extended to temperature–pressure sequence tests. The Chang 7 shale exhibits a stratified pore system in which micropores, mesopores, and macropores jointly define a three-tier “micropore adsorption–mesopore confinement–macropore mobility” pattern. As pore size and connectivity increase, the equilibrium imbibed mass and initial imbibition rate both rise, while enhanced wettability (contact angle decreasing from 81.2° to 58.7°) further strengthens capillary uptake. Temperature elevation promotes imbibition, whereas increasing confining pressure suppresses it, revealing a “thermal enhancement–pressure suppression” behavior. μCT-based network analysis shows that imbibition activates previously ineffective pore–throat elements, increasing coordination number and connectivity and reducing tortuosity, which collectively represents a capillary-driven structural reconfiguration of the pore network. When connectivity exceeds a threshold of about 0.70, the flow regime shifts from interface-dominated to channel-dominated. Building on these observations, a multi-scalecoupling framework and a three-stage synergistic mechanism of “pore-throat activation–energy conversion–structural reconstruction” are established. These results provide a quantitative basis for predicting imbibition efficiency and optimizing capillary-driven development strategies in deep shale oil reservoirs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Petroleum and Gas Engineering, 2nd edition)
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23 pages, 6829 KB  
Article
Pore Structure and the Multifractal Characteristics of Shale Before and After Extraction: A Case Study of the Triassic Yanchang Formation in the Ordos Basin
by Zhengwei Xu, Honggang Xin, Zhitao Wang, Shengbin Feng, Wenzhong Ma, Liwen Zhu, Huifei Tao, Lewei Hao and Xiaofeng Ma
Minerals 2025, 15(12), 1324; https://doi.org/10.3390/min15121324 - 18 Dec 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 663
Abstract
The shale oil reservoirs of Member 7 of the Triassic Yanchang Formation in the Longdong Area of the Ordos Basin have attracted widespread attention due to their unique geological characteristics and enormous development potential. As the core factor controlling reservoir storage capacity and [...] Read more.
The shale oil reservoirs of Member 7 of the Triassic Yanchang Formation in the Longdong Area of the Ordos Basin have attracted widespread attention due to their unique geological characteristics and enormous development potential. As the core factor controlling reservoir storage capacity and hydrocarbon flow efficiency, the precise characterization and quantitative analysis of pore structure are the prerequisite and key for reservoir evaluation and development plan optimization. All samples selected in this study were collected from the shale of Member 7 of the Triassic Yanchang Formation and were classified into two categories: medium-organic-rich shales (total organic carbon, TOC: 2–6%; TOC refers to the total organic carbon content in rocks, indicating organic matter abundance; unit: %) and high-organic-rich shales (TOC: >6%). The mineral composition and organic geochemical parameters of the shale were determined via X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Rock-Eval pyrolysis experiments, respectively. Meanwhile, pore structure characteristics were analyzed by combining low-temperature nitrogen adsorption–desorption experiments before and after extraction, and multifractal analysis was used to systematically investigate the differences in pore heterogeneity of shale and their influencing factors. The results show that the specific surface area (SSA) and total pore volume (TPV) of shale increased after extraction, while the change in average pore diameter (APD) varied. Multifractal analysis indicates that the micropores of shale both before and after extraction exhibit significant multifractal characteristics; after extraction, pore connectivity is improved, but the changes in pore heterogeneity are inconsistent. The pore connectivity of shale first increases and then decreases with the increase in TOC content and pyrolysis parameter S2 content. The better the pore connectivity of shale, the lower the content of light-component saturated hydrocarbons and the relatively higher the content of heavy-component resins in the extractable organic matter (EOM). Brittle minerals can provide a rigid framework to inhibit compaction and are prone to forming natural microfractures under tectonic stress, thereby promoting pore connectivity. In contrast, clay minerals, due to their plasticity, are prone to deformation and filling pore throats during compaction, thus reducing pore connectivity. This study provides a theoretical basis for the evaluation and development of shale reservoirs in the Longdong Area. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural and Induced Diagenesis in Clastic Rock)
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30 pages, 20231 KB  
Article
Effect of Sedimentary Environment on Mudrock Lithofacies and Organic Matter Enrichment in a Freshwater Lacustrine Basin: Insight from the Triassic Chang 7 Member in the Ordos Basin, China
by Meizhou Zhang, Xiaomin Zhu, Wenming Ji, Xingyue Lin and Lei Ye
Sustainability 2025, 17(22), 10248; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172210248 - 16 Nov 2025
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1053
Abstract
Gradually replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy constitutes a long-term strategy for achieving sustainable development. In the short term, it is necessary to explore unconventional oil and gas resources to support current economic sustainability and to secure essential time for the energy transition. [...] Read more.
Gradually replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy constitutes a long-term strategy for achieving sustainable development. In the short term, it is necessary to explore unconventional oil and gas resources to support current economic sustainability and to secure essential time for the energy transition. With the continuous growth in global energy demand, unconventional resources such as shale oil and shale gas have become important alternative energy sources. Lacustrine mudrock successions demonstrate significant potential for unconventional oil and gas resources. However, the unclear understanding of how paleoenvironmental evolution influences lithofacies and organic matter enrichment restricts the optimization of shale oil reservoirs and evaluation of shale oil resources, thereby hindering the progress of lacustrine shale oil exploration and development. The mudrocks in the Chang 7 Member of the Triassic Yanchang Formation, Ordos Basin, were deposited in a pro-delta to a deep lacustrine environment and are rich in shale oil resources. Through petrographic, sedimentological, sequence stratigraphic, and geochemical analyses, this study reveals how the evolution of the paleoenvironment controlled the development of mudrocks and the enrichment of organic matter, and establishes a sedimentary model for freshwater lacustrine systems. Six lithofacies have been identified within the mudrock interval of the Chang 7 Member. According to the T-R (transgressive–regressive) sequence model, the Chang 7 Member can be subdivided into three fourth-order sequences, termed Parasequence Set 1–3 (PPS1–3). Mudrock is predominantly developed in the fourth-order sequences PSS1 and PSS2. The PSS1 and the lower part of PSS2 consist of lithofacies 1–4, representing semi-deep to deep lacustrine deposits. The upper part of PSS2 develops lithofacies 5, representing shallow lacustrine to pro-delta deposits. Fluctuations of the lake level controlled the vertical stacking of lithofacies and the transition in depositional mechanisms. During lake-level rise, bottom currents shifted to suspension settling, whereas the opposite occurred during lake-level fall. The organic matter is derived from algae, and its enrichment is jointly controlled by productivity and the redox conditions. Volcanic–hydrothermal activity and a humid climate promoted high productivity in the water body. This high productivity promotes dyoxic conditions in the bottom water. Fourth-order relative lake-level fluctuations also influence organic matter enrichment. During lake-level rise, increased productivity coupled with reduced consumption and dilution favors organic matter enrichment. Conversely, organic matter accumulation is inhibited during lake-level fall. Ultimately, a depositional model for a freshwater lacustrine basin under a humid to semi-humid climatic background was established. This paper elucidates the influence of sedimentary environment on mudrock lithofacies and organic matter enrichment, providing a theoretical basis for optimizing shale oil reservoir selection and resource assessment, thereby promoting efficient exploration and low-carbon development of shale oil in lacustrine basins. Full article
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15 pages, 2175 KB  
Review
Improving Intensive End-of-Life Care for Infants and Children: A Scoping Review of Intervention Elements
by Elizabeth G. Broden Arciprete, Na Ouyang, Sarah E. Wawrzynski, Ijeoma J. Eche-Ugwu, Janene Batten, Deena K. Costa, Shelli L. Feder and Jennifer M. Snaman
Children 2025, 12(11), 1485; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12111485 - 3 Nov 2025
Viewed by 1746
Abstract
Background/objectives: High-quality pediatric critical care includes supporting children nearing the end-of-life (EOL) and their families. Cataloging existing interventions for children dying in the neonatal or pediatric intensive care unit (NICU, PICU) establishes critical areas for future research. In this scoping review, we evaluated [...] Read more.
Background/objectives: High-quality pediatric critical care includes supporting children nearing the end-of-life (EOL) and their families. Cataloging existing interventions for children dying in the neonatal or pediatric intensive care unit (NICU, PICU) establishes critical areas for future research. In this scoping review, we evaluated characteristics of PICU EOL interventions. Methods: A librarian guided a search of OVID Medline, CINAHL, OVID PsycINFO, OVID Embase, Cochrane Central, and Web of Science, plus backwards and forwards reference searching. We included interprofessional interventions, defined as any systematic change (e.g., educational programs, symptom management, electronic medical record, etc.), for children dying from any cause. Studies were independently screened by two reviewers. Data were extracted by one team member and reviewed by a second. We extracted intervention elements, contextual factors, implementation barriers/facilitators, and generated frequencies from qualitative coding. Results: Of 11,643 screened articles, 44 met the inclusion criteria. Most were in neonatal ICUs (n = 28/44, 64%) and general PICUs (n = 10/44, 23%). Most interventions aimed to improve clinician knowledge (25/44, 57%), augment clinical structures and processes (n = 11/44, 25%), or enhance communication (n = 8/44, 18%). Common delivery methods included clinical practice changes (n = 25/44, 57%; e.g., protocols, order sets [n = 12]), and educational sessions (n = 20/44, 45%). Outcomes included clinician knowledge (n = 17/44, 39%), qualitative feedback (n = 18/44, 41%), feasibility/acceptability (n = 12/44, 27%), or treatment utilization (n = 11/44, 25%). Few examined families’ mental health (n = 3, 7%) or bereavement (n = 2, 5%). Few reported implementation facilitators or barriers. Conclusions: Most included studies targeted clinician outcomes through education. Designing, testing, and implementing interventions focused on family outcomes is a critical next step. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Anesthesiology, Pain Medicine and Palliative Care)
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18 pages, 4953 KB  
Article
Genome-Wide Identification, Systematic Evolution, and Ethylene-Induced Response Characteristics of the Banana WRKY Gene Family During Fruit Ripening
by Yuji Huang, Ming Jiang, Haojun Zheng and Lixiang Miao
Horticulturae 2025, 11(11), 1289; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11111289 - 27 Oct 2025
Viewed by 1218
Abstract
This study conducted a genome-wide identification and systematic evolutionary analysis of the banana WRKY gene family using bioinformatics, transcriptomics, and molecular biology approaches. A total of 153 WRKY genes were identified in the banana genome, with significant differences in the amino acid count, [...] Read more.
This study conducted a genome-wide identification and systematic evolutionary analysis of the banana WRKY gene family using bioinformatics, transcriptomics, and molecular biology approaches. A total of 153 WRKY genes were identified in the banana genome, with significant differences in the amino acid count, molecular weight, and other physicochemical properties of their encoded proteins. The subcellular localization of these proteins is primarily in the nucleus. These genes are unevenly distributed across 11 chromosomes, with the highest density on chromosome 7. WRKY gene family members exhibit diverse expression patterns during fruit development and ripening, and some can respond to multiple abiotic and biotic stresses. Systematic evolutionary analysis classified them into three major groups (I, II, and III), with Group II having the highest number of members, which are further divided into five subgroups. Conserved motif analysis revealed that Motif1, Motif2, and Motif4 are key structural elements in the family’s evolution, with some members having a WRKYGKK variant. The gene structure shows a wide range of exon numbers (1–22), and the promoter regions are rich in cis-elements related to light response, hormone signaling, and stress response, indicating their potential for integrating light signals, hormone networks, and multiple stress responses. Collinearity analysis identified 116 segmental duplication events, with Ka/Ks values all less than 1, indicating purifying selection. After ethylene treatment, 51 genes showed significant changes in expression, which can be categorized into four patterns: sustained upregulation, sustained downregulation, initial upregulation followed by downregulation, and delayed upregulation. Among these, MaWRKY10, MaWRKY88, and MaWRKY137 exhibited significant expression changes and may play key roles in fruit ripening. These findings significantly contribute to the theoretical framework regarding the evolution and function of the WRKY family in plants. Moreover, they offer valuable gene resources and regulatory strategies that enhance postharvest banana preservation and molecular breeding efforts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Biology for Stress Management in Horticultural Plants)
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27 pages, 3720 KB  
Article
Reproductive Biology and Early Life History of the Apodid Sea Cucumber Chiridota laevis
by Sara Jobson, Jean-François Hamel and Annie Mercier
Biology 2025, 14(11), 1471; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14111471 - 22 Oct 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3660
Abstract
The apodid sea cucumber Chiridota laevis has been a documented member of endobenthic marine communities in northern waters for over a century and the rare studies available on its biology identify it as distinctive species and promising model for research. The present study [...] Read more.
The apodid sea cucumber Chiridota laevis has been a documented member of endobenthic marine communities in northern waters for over a century and the rare studies available on its biology identify it as distinctive species and promising model for research. The present study sought to elucidate fundamental aspects of its life history that remained unresolved. Adults were determined to be protandric, with individuals primarily demonstrating solely male or female gametes from winter (close to spawning) to the spring and summer months before undergoing a sex change in the fall months. Additionally, gametes of both sexes reached maturity synchronously in late winter (February to March). In mesocosms, free spawning occurred in February, as the temperature reached ~2.0 °C. The negatively buoyant eggs were encased in a sticky casing and fell to the sediment where they adhered to each other to form a mat on the muddy substratum. The realized fecundity was ~15,000 offspring. Development was lecithotrophic, demersal, and abbreviated, characterized by the absence of a pelagic larval stage. Embryos reached the gastrula stage after about 7 days post fertilization; the calcareous ring appeared at 6 weeks, and juveniles hatched from the sticky casing at 7 weeks, immediately becoming endobenthic. The size of late embryos and juveniles remained similar (~350 μm) until they began actively feeding at about 10 weeks of age. Feeding juveniles more than doubled in size in the first week (740 μm), reached 3.5 mm by year one, and measured up to 11 mm by year two. This growth rate suggests that it may take this species up to 7 years to reach adult size at ~24 mm contracted length. Full article
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