Natural Barriers Research Articles

The impact of administrative boundaries on foreign direct investments in China's Yangtze River Delta region

We investigate the theoretical mechanisms that underpin the influence of administrative boundaries on foreign direct investment (FDI), taking into account the dual impact of administrative boundary effects. Using panel data from Yangtze River Delta counties collected between 2011 and 2019, we empirically investigate administrative boundaries' effect on FDI within these regions. The findings show that from 2011 to 2019, China's Yangtze River Delta had a consistently positive but moderate global Moran's I index, indicating limited spatial interconnectivity among county-level FDIs. Inter-county FDI in the Yangtze River Delta is hampered by provincial administrative boundaries, with cross-provincial FDI disparities greater than those within the same province. Notably, the Anhui-Zhejiang border experienced a temporary shift from a negative to a positive effect coefficient between 2011 and 2015, whereas other interprovincial boundaries consistently had negative coefficients. The FDI boundary barrier effect is attributed to natural barriers, administrative boundaries, and government performance assessments. In contrast, the boundary intermediary effect results from economic activity diffusion, inter-regional industrial relocation, and inter-regional geographical interaction. This study examines the impact of administrative boundaries on regional economic development through the lens of FDI, intending to provide useful insights for promoting balanced regional development in China and other developing countries. Furthermore, it guides international investors on their ventures in China, attempting to enrich their decision-making framework with strategic perspectives on the country's investment environment.

Efficient Delivery of Lomitapide using Hybrid Membrane-Coated Tetrahedral DNA Nanostructures for Glioblastoma Therapy.

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive and prevalent primary malignant tumor of the central nervous system. Traditional chemotherapy has poor therapeutic effects and significant side effects due to drug resistance, the natural blood-brain barrier (BBB), and nonspecific distribution, leading to a lack of clinically effective therapeutic drugs. Here, 1430 small molecule compounds are screened based on a high-throughput drug screening platform and a novel anti-GBM drug, lomitapide (LMP) is obtained. Furthermore, a bionic nanodrug delivery system (RFA NPs) actively targeting GBM is constructed, which mainly consists of tetrahedral DNA nanocages (tFNA NPs) loaded with LMP as the core and a folate-modified erythrocyte-cancer cell-macrophage hybrid membrane (FRUR) as the shell. FRUR camouflage conferred unique features on tFNA NPs, including excellent biocompatibility, improved pharmacokinetic profile, efficient BBB permeability, and tumor targeting ability. The results show that the LMP RFA NPs exhibited superior and specific anti-GBM activities, reduced off-target drug delivery, prolonged lifespan, and has negligible side effects in tumor-bearing mice. This study combines high-throughput drug screening with biomimetic nanodrug delivery system technology to provide a theoretical and practical basis for drug development and the optimization of clinical treatment strategies for GBM treatment.

INFLUENCE OF рН AND Ca<sup>2+</sup> IONS ON CHEMICAL COMPOSITION AND SORPTION OF <sup>137</sup>Cs BY CHERKASY BENTONITES (UKRAINE)

The safety of near-surface and deep radioactive waste storage facilities is based on a system of engineered and natural barriers. Significant degradation of the engineered barrier system composed of cemented waste matrixes covered by cement mixture, concrete compartments, and structures at the basement of the storage facility may cause radionuclide transfer from the facility to groundwater. Mixing of the cement and concrete with water leads to the formation of several various hydration products with subsequent leaching of Ca2+ ions and formation of hydroxyl ions (OH-), which affects the alkalinity of the water environment and the sorption properties of bentonite, as a component of the engineered barrier at the basement of near-surface facilities. The article presents the results of an experimental study of the influence of Ca2+ ion concentration and pH of the model solution (similar to groundwater composition at Vector Site in Chornobyl Exclusion Zone) on the elemental composition and sorption properties of natural (NB) and Na-modified (PBA-20) bentonites from the Cherkasy deposit concerning 137Cs at the Solid : Solution ratio of 1 : 100. Geochemical modeling suggests that addition of CaCl2 to test solution and resulting alkaline pH leads to precipitation of solids, mainly oxides, hydroxides, Fe oxyhydroxides (hematite, goethite, limonite), and Ca carbonates (calcite, aragonite, dolomite). Their role in Cs adsorption was evaluated. The concentration of structural elements (Si, Al) in bentonites practically does not change with Ca2+ ion concentration increase in the model solution, demonstrating the bentonite structure’s stability under these conditions. At the same time, an increase in the Ca concentration and a decrease in the Na concentration was found in the ion exchange complex of the bentonites if compared to the initial natural bentonite. This results in the transformation of Na-modified bentonite from Na, Ca-form to Ca, Na-form. The total sorption capacity of NB and PBA-20 bentonite concerning Cs+ ions at increased concentrations of Ca2+ ions and pH of the solution slightly decreases, though retaining high values of the degree of absorption (> 90 %). The total adsorption of Cs+ ions on NB and PBA-20 bentonites from model groundwater with the addition of CaCl2 from 16 to 960 mg/dm3 and increase of рН from 7.4 to 11.8 decreases with the increase in ionic strength, in particular, due to competition with Са2+ and Na+ ions. NB and PBA-20 bentonites of the Cherkasy deposit remain a reliable component of the liner at the repository basement owing to their main functional property – high absorption capacity for 137Cs, which is an important dose-forming radionuclide of short-lived low- and medium-level waste.

Preparation of Compound Salvia miltiorrhiza-Blumea balsamifera Nanoemulsion Gel and Its Effect on Hypertrophic Scars in the Rabbit Ear Model.

Hypertrophic scars (HS) still remain an urgent challenge in the medical community. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has unique advantages in the treatment of HS. However, due to the natural barrier of the skin, it is difficult for the natural active components of TCM to more effectively penetrate the skin and exert therapeutic effects. Therefore, the development of an efficient drug delivery system to facilitate enhanced transdermal absorption of TCM becomes imperative for its clinical application. In this study, we designed a compound Salvia miltiorrhiza-Blumea balsamifera nanoemulsion gel (CSB-NEG) and investigated its therapeutic effects on rabbit HS models. The prescription of CSB-NEG was optimized by single-factor, pseudoternary phase diagram, and central composite design experiments. The results showed that the average particle size and PDI of the optimized CSB-NE were 46.0 ± 0.2 nm and 0.222 ± 0.004, respectively, and the encapsulation efficiency of total phenolic acid was 93.37 ± 2.56%. CSB-NEG demonstrated excellent stability and skin permeation in vitro and displayed a significantly enhanced ability to inhibit scar formation compared to the CSB physical mixture in vivo. After 3 weeks of CSB-NEG treatment, the scar appeared to be flat, pink, and flexible. Furthermore, this treatment also resulted in a decrease in the levels of the collagen I/III ratio and TGF-β1 and Smad2 proteins while simultaneously promoting the growth and remodeling of microvessels. These findings suggest that CSB-NEG has the potential to effectively address the barrier properties of the skin and provide therapeutic benefits for HS, offering a new perspective for the prevention and treatment of HS.

Breaking Physical Barrier of Fibrotic Breast Cancer for Photodynamic Immunotherapy by Remodeling Tumor Extracellular Matrix and Reprogramming Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts.

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) assist in breast cancer (BRCA) invasion and immune resistance by overproduction of extracellular matrix (ECM). Herein, we develop FPC@S, a photodynamic immunomodulator that targets the ECM, to improve the photodynamic immunotherapy for fibrotic BRCA. FPC@S combines a tumor ECM-targeting peptide, a photosensitizer (protoporphyrin IX) and an antifibrotic drug (SIS3). After anchoring to the ECM, FPC@S causes ECM remodeling and BRCA cell death by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) in situ. Interestingly, the ROS-mediated ECM remodeling can normalize the tumor blood vessel to improve hypoxia and in turn facilitate more ROS production. Besides, upon the acidic tumor microenvironment, FPC@S will release SIS3 for reprograming CAFs to reduce their activity but not kill them, thus inhibiting fibrosis while preventing BRCA metastasis. The natural physical barrier formed by the dense ECM is consequently eliminated in fibrotic BRCA, allowing the drugs and immune cells to penetrate deep into tumors and have better efficacy. Furthermore, FPC@S can stimulate the immune system and effectively suppress primary, distant and metastatic tumors by combining with immune checkpoint blockade therapy. This study provides different insights for the development of fibrotic tumor targeted delivery systems and exploration of synergistic immunotherapeutic mechanisms against aggressive BRCA.

The effect of selenium on the proliferation of bovine endometrial epithelial cells in a lipopolysaccharide-induced damage model

BackgroundEndometritis is a common bovine postpartum disease. Rapid endometrial repair is beneficial for forming natural defense barriers and lets cows enter the next breeding cycle as soon as possible. Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element closely related to growth and development in animals. This study aims to observe the effect of Se on the proliferation of bovine endometrial epithelial cells (BEECs) induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and to elucidate the possible underlying mechanism.ResultsIn this study, we developed a BEECs damage model using LPS. Flow cytometry, cell scratch test and EdU proliferation assay were used to evaluate the cell cycle, migration and proliferation. The mRNA transcriptions of growth factors were detected by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. The activation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT) and Wnt/β-catenin pathways were detected by Western blotting and immunofluorescence. The results showed that the cell viability and BCL-2/BAX protein ratio were significantly decreased, and the cell apoptosis rate was significantly increased in the LPS group. Compared with the LPS group, Se promoted cell cycle progression, increased cell migration and proliferation, and significantly increased the gene expressions of TGFB1, TGFB3 and VEGFA. Se decreased the BCL-2/BAX protein ratio, promoted β-catenin translocation from the cytoplasm to the nucleus and activated the Wnt/β-catenin and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways inhibited by LPS.ConclusionsIn conclusion, Se can attenuate LPS-induced damage to BEECs and promote cell proliferation and migration in vitro by enhancing growth factors gene expression and activating the PI3K/AKT and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways.

Demonstration of a Josephson vortex-based memory cell with microwave energy-efficient readout

The ongoing progress of superconducting logic systems with Josephson junctions as base elements requires the development of compatible cryogenic memory. Long enough junctions subject to magnetic field host quantum phase 2π-singularities—Josephson vortices. Here, we report the realization of the superconducting memory cell whose state is encoded by the number of present Josephson vortices. By integrating the junction into a coplanar resonator and by applying a microwave excitation well below the critical current, we are able to control the state of the system in an energy-efficient and non-destructive manner. The memory effect arises due to the presence of the natural edge barrier for Josephson vortices. The performance of the device is evaluated, and the routes for creating scalable cryogenic memories directly compatible with superconducting microwave technologies are discussed.

Evaluation of vulnerable zones to water pollution in the lower Soummam alluvial aquifer, Bejaia, Algeria

Abstract Understanding the critical relationship between the Soummam River and its alluvial aquifer is crucial for the protection of this vital water resource. The approach is based on monitoring the spatial and temporal evolution of physico-chemical parameters and identifying their origin through correlation with the geology and piezometry of the alluvial aquifer; this will be achieved using differential gauging and hydrogeochemical tracing. This will provide valuable information for the management and protection of this precious water resource. The case study focuses on the alluvial aquifer of the lower Soummam Valley in Bejaia, Algeria, where a unique natural barrier upstream creates a close hydraulic relationship between the river and the aquifer. This allows for water exchange, which we investigated through two sampling campaigns (high and low water) at 32 water points (boreholes, wells and stations). By tracking the movement of special chemical tracers in both the Soummam River and the underlying alluvial aquifer, this study confirms a direct hydraulic connection between them. This means that water can flow from the river into the aquifer, highlighting the potential risk of water pollution. This has helped us to identify areas where pollution from the river could seep into the groundwater, threatening the drinking water supply.

Unraveling the skin; a comprehensive review of atopic dermatitis, current understanding, and approaches.

Atopic dermatitis, also known as atopic eczema, is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by red pruritic skin lesions, xerosis, ichthyosis, and skin pain. Among the social impacts of atopic dermatitis are difficulties and detachment in relationships and social stigmatization. Additionally, atopic dermatitis is known to cause sleep disturbance, anxiety, hyperactivity, and depression. Although the pathological process behind atopic dermatitis is not fully known, it appears to be a combination of epidermal barrier dysfunction and immune dysregulation. Skin is the largest organ of the human body which acts as a mechanical barrier to toxins and UV light and a natural barrier against water loss. Both functions face significant challenges due to atopic dermatitis. The list of factors that can potentially trigger or contribute to atopic dermatitis is extensive, ranging from genetic factors, family history, dietary choices, immune triggers, and environmental factors. Consequently, prevention, early clinical diagnosis, and effective treatment may be the only resolutions to combat this burdensome disease. Ensuring safe and targeted drug delivery to the skin layers, without reaching the systemic circulation is a promising option raised by nano-delivery systems in dermatology. In this review, we explored the current understanding and approaches of atopic dermatitis and outlined a range of the most recent therapeutics and dosage forms brought by nanotechnology. This review was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect databases.

A Comprehensive Review on Potential Chemical and Herbal Permeation Enhancers Used in Transdermal Drug Delivery Systems.

Using skin patches to deliver drugs is dependable and doesn't have the same issues as permeation enhancers, which help drugs get through the skin but struggle because of the skin's natural barrier. Strategies are required to increase topical bioavailability to enhance drug absorption. Natural compounds offer a promising solution by temporarily reducing skin barrier resistance and improving drug absorption. Natural substances allow a wider variety of medications to be distributed through the stratum corneum, offering a dependable approach to enhancing transdermal drug delivery. Natural substances have distinct advantages as permeability enhancers. They are pharmacologically effective and safe, inactive, non-allergenic, and non-irritating. These characteristics ensure their suitability for use without causing adverse effects. Natural compounds are readily available and well tolerated by the body. Studies investigating the structure-activity relationship of natural chemicals have demonstrated significant enhancer effects. By understanding the connection between chemical composition and enhancer activity, researchers can identify effective natural compounds for improving drug penetration. In conclusion, current research focuses on utilizing natural compounds as permeability enhancers in transdermal therapy systems. These substances offer safety, non-toxicity, pharmacological inactivity, and non-irritation. Through structure-activity relationship investigations, promising advancements have been made in enhancing drug delivery. Using natural compounds holds enormous potential for improving the penetration of trans-dermally delivered medications.

270 Radiologic diagnosis of Extranodal Extension (ENE) in patients with HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancer: consensus diagnosis and influence on prognosis

Tumor often progresses through the weakest part of any surrounding tissues. The extent of tumor invasion depends on: a. Aggressiveness of the tumor cells (e.g. number and invasive character of stem cells), b. robustness of the surrounding tissues and their composition (e.g. vessels), and c. time to allow the tumor to proliferate. The lymph node (LN) capsule comprises dense connective tissue stroma and collagenous fibers, and is a natural barrier that generally prevents further tumor progression. Permeation of tumor through the nodal capsule into surrounding tissues is termed “extranodal extension”. The idiosyncratic and inconsistent mechanism of ENE is imprecisely understood, but it is thought to be due to either tumor cell proliferation that outpaces the capacity of nodal capsular expansion (“ruptures” the LN capsule), or factors within the tumor or tumor microenvironment that facilitate the “breach” of the capsule. The latter might explain ENE in small LNs, or a “neglected” tumor (lengthy intranodal tumor growth with eventual “rupture” through an expanded nodal capsule). Several biomarkers (e.g. podoplanin) that are often associated with tumor aggressiveness have been reported to have a high expression in ENE+ LN. ENE represents a spectrum of tumor nodal invasion. The early sign of ENE can only be visible under the microscope (pathologic ENE); when ENE progresses further, the radiographic signal changes become apparent, making it visible on imaging (iENE). Most advanced ENE causes emergence of clinical surrogates (e.g. peau d'orange, or a “fixed” nodal mass), rendering it detectable by regular clinical examination (ENEc). iENE has been reported to be one of the strongest anatomic prognostic factors for overall survival (mainly due to increased risk of distant metastasis) in HPV-positive oropharyngeal carcinoma (HPV+ OPC), and is able to identify a subgroup of stage I disease with poor prognosis. Several deintensification trials (NRG-HN002, ORATOR, ORATOR2, E3311) have excluded HPV+ OPC with some form of iENE from trial enrolment. Several authors have proposed that iENE be included in future clinical N classification for HPV+ OPC. However, adoption of iENE in clinical care remains challenging because it is not a well-defined radiologic feature among the radiology community. Various definitions / descriptions of iENE have been used in literature. There is also insufficient awareness of the prognostic importance of this parameter in head and neck oncology community. The international iENE Expert Panel was convened under the HNCIG comprised expert internationally renowned neuroradiologists and clinicians. Several rounds of Delphi process were conducted to consolidate iENE definition. The consensus recommendations on the terminology and diagnostic criteria for iENE were generated. The experts in the consensus process recognized the following as criteria for the diagnosis of iENE: clear evidence of irregular or indistinct nodal margin/border; extension into perinodal fat; extension into adjacent structures, and conglomerate/matted/coalescent nodes. These recommendations have been endorsed by 19 national organisations, representing 34 countries. With increased awareness and consolidated definition as well as training, iENE could become an important baseline factor for risk stratification and staging in HPV+ OPC.

Borehole analysis procedure for constructing a lithological model of natural barrier and its application to the KAERI underground research tunnel

Borehole analysis procedure for constructing a lithological model of natural barrier and its application to the KAERI underground research tunnel

Numerical study on the onset of global-scale flow from individual buoyant plumes: Implications for indoor disease transmission

Transport of exhaled droplets and aerosol suspension is a main route for the transmission of highly infectious respiratory diseases. A poorly ventilated room, where human body heat drives the flow and the pathogen motion, is one such paradigmatic situation with an elevated risk of viral transmission. Here, we report a numerical study on human body heat-driven buoyancy convection in a slender rectangular geometry with the geometric size of 12 × 1 × 3 m3. Using large-scale three-dimensional simulations, we reveal how different spacings between human body heat sources can potentially spread pathogenic species between occupants in a room. Morphological transition in airflow takes place as the distance between human heat sources is varied, which shapes distinct patterns of disease transmission: For sufficiently large distance, individual buoyant plume creates a natural barrier, forming buoyant jets that block suspension spread between occupants. Thermal plumes exhibit significant individual effects. However, for small distances, a collective effect emerges and thermal plumes condense into superstructure, facilitating long-distance suspension transport via crossing between convection rolls. In addition, we quantify the impact of morphological transition on the transport of viral particles by introducing tracer particles. The quantitative analysis shows that under certain critical distances, the infection risk becomes significantly elevated due to this transition and collective behavior. Our findings highlight the importance of reasonable social distancing to reduce indoor cross-transmission of viral particles between people and provide new insights into the hidden transitional behavior of pathogen transmission in indoor environments.

GENETIC DISTANCE REVEALS SYNONYMY AND NEW FISH SPECIES IN BALIKESİR STREAMS, TÜRKİYE

The Mediterranean-Aegean region play a significant role in the context of conserving biodiversity. The protection of endemic and local species becomes attainable only with a thorough understanding of their biology. Specifically, aquatic species dwelling in inland waters may be more vulnerable due to the irregular composition of their habitats, characterized by natural barriers. It becomes imperative to initiate the conservation process by identifying the fauna and flora of ecosystems, thereby facilitating the development of comprehensive conservation plans. In this context, the primary objective of the present study is to identify freshwater fish species inhabiting Madra and Havran Streams in Balıkesir, Türkiye using the DNA barcoding method. The procedure involves DNA isolation through the Chelex protocol, followed by the amplification of the mitochondrial CO1 region using various primer combinations. The results obtained from the gene sequences of 29 individuals in total provide valuable information on species diversity, genetic relationships, and variations. This research emphasizes the importance of DNA barcoding as a valuable tool for species identification, genetic exploration, and conservation plans. The acquired outcomes establish a foundation for the effective management of aquatic biodiversity, particularly within these vulnerable ecosystems.

'Getting Better'-Is It a Feasible Strategy of Broad Pan-Antiherpesviral Drug Targeting by Using the Nuclear Egress-Directed Mechanism?

The herpesviral nuclear egress represents an essential step of viral replication efficiency in host cells, as it defines the nucleocytoplasmic release of viral capsids. Due to the size limitation of the nuclear pores, viral nuclear capsids are unable to traverse the nuclear envelope without a destabilization of this natural host-specific barrier. To this end, herpesviruses evolved the regulatory nuclear egress complex (NEC), composed of a heterodimer unit of two conserved viral NEC proteins (core NEC) and a large-size extension of this complex including various viral and cellular NEC-associated proteins (multicomponent NEC). Notably, the NEC harbors the pronounced ability to oligomerize (core NEC hexamers and lattices), to multimerize into higher-order complexes, and, ultimately, to closely interact with the migrating nuclear capsids. Moreover, most, if not all, of these NEC proteins comprise regulatory modifications by phosphorylation, so that the responsible kinases, and additional enzymatic activities, are part of the multicomponent NEC. This sophisticated basis of NEC-specific structural and functional interactions offers a variety of different modes of antiviral interference by pharmacological or nonconventional inhibitors. Since the multifaceted combination of NEC activities represents a highly conserved key regulatory stage of herpesviral replication, it may provide a unique opportunity towards a broad, pan-antiherpesviral mechanism of drug targeting. This review presents an update on chances, challenges, and current achievements in the development of NEC-directed antiherpesviral strategies.

Screening and Phasewise Management of Burn Injuries.

Thermal, electrical, chemical, or electromagnetic radiationcan cause painful wounds or burns. Spilling hot liquids onto the skin can also cause these kinds of injuries. The two biggest factors contributing to burn injuries in the elderly are smoking and exposure to open flames, while scalding is the primary cause of burn damage in children. Newborns and the elderly make up the majority of burn casualties. In India, there are estimated to be 6-7 million burn cases per year. The high incidence is attributed to the population's illiteracy, poverty, and lack of awareness of safety. The problem is made much worse by the fact that basic and secondary healthcare levels do not provide systematic burn care.Coagulation necrosis is caused by denaturing proteins due to heat from burns. Platelets clump together, arteries narrow, and partly perfused tissue (called the stasis zone) may spread out around the wound. In the stasis zone, tissue is hyperemic and inflammatory. When the skin's natural barrier is breached, microorganisms can enter the body and cause poor temperature regulation, fluid loss, and invasion. Intravascular volume loss is typically worsened by injured or edematous tissues. Significant heat loss may occur from the wounded dermis' lack of thermoregulation, particularly in exposed wounds. The severity determines the different treatments.Serious burns require considerable care, while lesser burns just require cleaning and painkillers. Just-partially thickened burns must be cleansed with soap and water before being clothed. For full-thickness burns, surgery, including skin grafting, is frequently required. Extensive intravenous fluid doses are often required to treat serious burns resulting from tissue edema and capillary fluid leakage.

Climatic niche modelling and genetic analyses highlight conservation priorities for the Spotted Softshell Turtle (Pelodiscus variegatus)

The Spotted Softshell Turtle (Pelodiscus variegatus) has been recognised since 2019 from Vietnam and Hainan Island, China, but little information about its population status and distribution range is currently available. The species has been provisionally listed as Critically Endangered by the Turtle and Tortoise Working Group, although the status has not been officially accepted by the IUCN, due to the threats the species is facing, including habitat loss and degradation, overexploitation for food, competition with other non-native softshell turtles and pollution. To identify conservation priority sites for P. variegatus in mainland Indochina, this study combines molecular analyses and species distribution modelling. Our results show that, in Vietnam, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park has the largest suitable area and high probability of species occurrence, followed by Vu Quang National Park and Song Thanh and Ke Go Nature Reserves. In addition, the central provinces, from Thanh Hoa to Thua Thien Hue in Vietnam, constitute a key part of the species distribution and should be prioritised for conservation actions. According to the study’s findings, although P. variegatus is possibly found in Laos, the probability decreases sharply at the border between both countries and there is also a gap in the occurrence of wetlands, arguing for strong natural barriers. Unfortunately, to date, only part of the species potential distribution is protected, while no records are known from protected areas, highlighting the need for extended or even new reserves. To recover natural populations of the species and following the IUCN’s One Plan Approach to Conservation, breeding programmes have been established in Vietnam with a potential to expand to other facilities in the country and abroad. Once suitable sites are identified, offspring can be released into the protected areas to improve the current conservation status of this highly-threatened softshell turtle.

Relationship between wintering site and survival in a migratory waterbird using different migration routes

When wintering at different sites, individuals from the same breeding population can experience different conditions, with costs and benefits that may have implications throughout their lifetime. Using a dataset from a longitudinal study on Eurasian Spoonbills from southern France, we explored whether survival rate varied among individuals using different wintering sites. In the last 13 years, more than 3000 spoonbills have been ringed as chicks in Camargue. These birds winter in five main regions that vary in both migratory flyway (East Atlantic vs. Central European) and migration distance (long-distance vs. short-distance vs. resident). We applied Cormack–Jolly–Seber models and found evidence for apparent survival to correlate with migration distance, but not with flyway. During the interval between the first winter sighting and the next breeding period, long-distance migrants had the lowest survival, independently of the flyway taken. Additionally, as they age, spoonbills seem to better cope with migratory challenges and wintering conditions as no differences in apparent survival among wintering strategies were detected during subsequent years. As dispersal to other breeding colonies was rarely observed, the lower apparent survival during this period is likely to be partly driven by lower true survival. This supports the potential role of crossing of natural barriers and degradation of wintering sites in causing higher mortality rates as recorded for a variety of long-distance migrants. Our work confirms variation in demographic parameters across winter distribution ranges and reinforces the importance of longitudinal studies to better understand the complex demographics of migratory species.

"One-Pot" Method Preparation of Dendritic Mesoporous Silica-Loaded Matrine Nanopesticide for Noninvasive Administration Control of Monochamus alternatus: The Vector Insect of Bursapherenchus xylophophilus.

Monochamus alternatus is an important stem-boring pest in forestry. However, the complex living environment of Monochamus alternatus creates a natural barrier to chemical control, resulting in a very limited control effect by traditional insecticidal pesticides. In this study, a stable pesticide dendritic mesoporous silica-loaded matrine nanopesticide (MAT@DMSNs) was designed by encapsulating the plant-derived pesticide matrine (MAT) in dendritic mesoporous silica nanoparticles (DMSNs). The results showed that MAT@DMSNs, sustainable nanobiopesticides with high drug loading capacity (80%) were successfully constructed. The release efficiency of DMSNs at alkaline pH was slightly higher than that at acidic pH, and the cumulative release rate of MAT was about 60% within 25 days. In addition, the study on the toxicity mechanism of MAT@DMSNs showed MAT@DMSNs were more effective than MAT and MAT (0.3% aqueous solutions) in touch and stomach toxicity, which might be closely related to their good dispersibility and permeability. Furthermore, MAT@DMSNs are also involved in water transport in trees, which can further transport the plant-derived insecticides to the target site and improve its insecticidal effect. Meanwhile, in addition, the use of essential oil bark penetrants in combination with MAT@DMSNs effectively avoids the physical damage to pines caused by traditional trunk injections and the development of new pests and diseases induced by the traditional trunk injection method, which provides a new idea for the application of biopesticides in the control of stem-boring pests in forestry.

Variations in the present-day stress field and its implications for hydrocarbon development in the Hassi Terfa field, Hassi Messaoud, Algeria

Understanding the contemporary stress field and its variations is important in hydrocarbon production. These fluctuations are significant for borehole stability and trajectory, hydraulic stimulation, fault reactivation, and optimal well completion. In this study, we provide the first geomechanical model to determine the orientation and magnitude of the present-day stress of the Hassi Terfa field using geophysical logs to understand the origin of the spatial variation of the stress state. The breakouts from acoustic image logs provide an average maximum horizontal stress (SHmax) orientation of N115°, consistent with the Africa–Eurasia plate motion, which imposes the largest first-order stress source. However, our analysis demonstrates local stress perturbations near faults. This may mean that the stress field in the Hassi Terfa is superimposed by a third-order source of stress (<100 km). Our model demonstrates variations in stress magnitude with depth interpreted to be lithology-dependent, which act as a natural barrier against fracture propagation. We propose a new approach to quantify these perturbations via the stress regime index R′, using the magnitude of the principal stress components. The results demonstrate different layer-to-layer faulting regimes. These perturbations will limit the vertical propagation of hydraulic fracturing to the overlying formation, which enables it to access a larger reservoir volume and improve production. In general, a strike–slip regime with a slight normal slip component is interpreted for the study area. We develop the first-ever quantitative stress map using the relative principal stress magnitude parameter (Aϕ) to present the lateral variation of the stress regime throughout the Saharan platform. Results demonstrate a consistent strike–slip to normal/strike–slip regime with a uniform SHmax orientation. This map will help operators achieve optimal well direction and optimize hydraulic stimulation. Our results have considerable implications for hydrocarbon production in the central and southeastern Saharan platform.