Complex History Research Articles

Demanding Images and Memories of Colonial Violence in Tanzania

This article analyses the complex histories and contemporary uses of a colonial-era photograph of Nduna Songea Mbano Lwafu, a sub-chief in Tanzania, taken before his execution during the Majimaji War (1904–1908). The photograph, initially used for colonial anthropological purposes, has been repurposed in postcolonial Tanzania to memorialise and honour national heroes. The study traces the photograph’s journey from its creation by German colonial forces to its current role in Tanzanian museums, textbooks and artistic expressions. By analysing its use in various contexts, the article addresses the broader implications of addressing colonial visual materials that resonate with violent histories. The article highlights how the photograph’s materiality allowed it to be transformed and reinterpreted in Tanzanian cultural forms such as carvings, sculptures and calendars. It discusses the methodological approach of using oral history to provide context to the photograph, underscoring the importance of understanding the colonial violence that accompanied its creation. The article argues for the need to critically engage with colonial photographs to prevent the erasure or misrepresentation of historical figures and events. Through this case study, the article contributes to broader discussions on the politics of memory, the decolonisation of visual archives and the dynamic nature of photographic meanings in postcolonial settings.

Ancient mitochondrial DNA extraction from Bison bison long bones from Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, UNESCO World Heritage site

Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump (HSIBJ) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the southern end of the Porcupine Hills, near Fort Macleod, Alberta, Canada. Using a system of drive lanes, Indigenous groups drove herds of bison over the cliff edge for thousands of years. The well-stratified deposits at the base of the cliff offer a unique opportunity to investigate the genetic diversity of the American bison before European contact and their genetic bottleneck in the 19th century. We extracted ancient DNA from twenty-one bison long bones, amplified and sequenced the mitochondrial DNA control region. Comparisons between ancient and modern bison populations revealed novel haplotypes in the HSIBJ population, suggesting a loss of genetic diversity due to the bottleneck. Furthermore, we discovered a shared haplotype between the bison hunted at the site and modern populations, which may help elucidate the complex history of living herds.

Positive selection, genetic recombination, and intra-host evolution in novel equine coronavirus genomes and other members of the Embecovirus subgenus.

There are several examples of coronaviruses in the Betacoronavirus subgenus Embecovirus that have jumped from an animal to the human host. Studying how evolutionary factors shape coronaviruses in non-human hosts may provide insight into the coronavirus host-switching potential. Equids, such as horses and donkeys, are susceptible to equine coronaviruses (ECoVs). With increased testing prevalence, several ECoV genome sequences have become available for molecular evolutionary analyses, especially those from the United States of America (USA). To date, no analyses have been performed to characterize evolution within coding regions of the ECoV genome. Here, we obtain and describe four new ECoV genome sequences from infected equines from across the USA presenting clinical symptoms of ECoV, and infer ECoV-specific and Embecovirus-wide patterns of molecular evolution. Within two of the four data sets analyzed, we find evidence of intra-host evolution within the nucleocapsid (N) gene, suggestive of quasispecies development. We also identify 12 putative genetic recombination events within the ECoV genome, 11 of which fall in ORF1ab. Finally, we infer and compare sites subject to positive selection on the ancestral branch of each major Embecovirus member clade. Specifically, for the two currently identified human coronavirus (HCoV) embecoviruses that have spilled from animals to humans (HCoV-OC43 and HCoV-HKU1), we find that there are 42 and 2 such sites, respectively, perhaps reflective of the more complex ancestral evolutionary history of HCoV-OC43, which involves several different animal hosts.IMPORTANCEThe Betacoronavirus subgenus Embecovirus contains coronaviruses that not only pose a health threat to animals and humans, but also have jumped from animal to human host. Equids, such as horses and donkeys are susceptible to equine coronavirus (ECoV) infections. No studies have systematically examined evolutionary patterns within ECoV genomes. Our study addresses this gap and provides insight into intra-host ECoV evolution from infected horses. Further, we identify and report natural selection pattern differences between two embecoviruses that have jumped from animals to humans [human coronavirus OC43 and HKU1 (HCoV-OC43 and HCoV-HKU1, respectively)], and hypothesize that the differences observed may be due to the different animal host(s) that each virus circulated in prior to its jump into humans. Finally, we contribute four novel, high-quality ECoV genomes to the scientific community.

Gaining or cutting SLAC: the evolution of plant guard cell signalling pathways.

The evolution of adjustable stomatal pores, enabling CO2 acquisition, was one of the most significant events in the development of life on land. Here, we investigate how the guard cell signalling pathways that regulate stomatal movements evolved. We compare fern and angiosperm guard cell transcriptomes and physiological responses, and examine the functionality of ion channels from diverse plant species. We find that, despite conserved expression in guard cells, fern anion channels from the SLAC/SLAH family are not activated by the same abscisic acid (ABA) pathways that provoke stomatal closure in angiosperms. Accordingly, we find an insensitivity of fern stomata to ABA. Moreover, our analysis points to a complex evolutionary history, featuring multiple gains and/or losses of SLAC activation mechanisms, as these channels were recruited to a role in stomatal closure. Our results show that the guard cells of flowering and nonflowering plants share similar core features, with lineage-specific and ecological niche-related adaptations, likely underlying differences in behaviour.

6564 A Case of Severe Hypercalcemia in Carney's Complex

Abstract Disclosure: J. Chippior: None. M. Rayan: None. L. Wright: None. L.S. Kirschner: Grant Recipient; Self; Medpace, Sparrow, Corcept Therapeutics, Corcept, Spruce, CinCor, Crinetics, Adrenas. S.W. Ing: Grant Recipient; Self; Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Amgen Inc, Radius Health, Inc, Takeda, Ultragenyx, Amolyt, Bridge Bio. Carney complex is a rare syndrome with fewer than 750 reported cases, characterized by lentigniosis, myxomas, and the occurrence of both endocrine and non-endocrine tumors. An inactivating mutation PRKAR1A, which encodes for the type 1A regulatory subunit of Protein kinase A, is responsible for over 70% of familial cases and 37% of sporadic cases. A 31-year-old female with a history of Carney complex, Cushing syndrome due to primary pigmented nodular adrenocortical disease (PPNAD), facial lentigines, spinal Schwannomas, and recent ischemic stroke secondary to embolization of a cardiac atrial myxoma, was transferred to our medical center for hyperemesis and severe hypercalcemia. Albumin-corrected serum calcium measured 15.4 mg/dL (8.6-10.5 mg/dL), ionized calcium 7.8 mg/dL (4.6-5.3 mg/dL) associated with suppressed PTH, normal PTH-related protein, and elevated bone turnover markers, C-telopeptide 4,273 pg/ml (150-635) and Procollagen Type 1 N-terminal Propeptide 222 mcg/L (19-83). Evaluation for etiology of hypercalcemia revealed elevated 1,25 dihydroxy vitamin D at 107.0 pg/ml (20-79) and elevated interleukin-6 at 11 pg/ml (<6.4). IL-6 is expressed by cardiac myxomas. Serum angiotensin-converting enzyme level was 50 U/L (16-85) and infectious workup was negative for potential granulomatous causes of elevated calcitriol (including testing for tuberculosis, histoplasma, blastomyces, bartonella, and coccidioides). CT angiogram of the abdomen and pelvis (completed in preparation of atrial myxoma resection) revealed ground-glass opacities in bilateral posterior lung fields and multiple pulmonary nodules, with the largest measuring 8 mm. After treatment with aggressive intravenous fluid resuscitation, intramuscular calcitonin, and intravenous zoledronic acid, corrected calcium normalized to 9.4 mg/dL at discharge. Urinary cortisol was 6.2 mcg per 24-hr (3.5-45), for which she started hydrocortisone 20 mg daily to treat suspected adrenal insufficiency as excess cortisol secretion in PPNAD may be episodic. Thus remission of hypercortisolism may have unmasked an underlying hypercalcemia, and adrenal insufficiency itself may have contributed to this finding. She had excision of left atrial myxoma and has continued to exhibit normal calcium levels on steroid replacement therapy. Repeat chest CT to further characterize these pulmonary findings is planned. This case illustrates a unique constellation of endocrine features associated with severe hypercalcemia in Carney complex. Presentation: 6/1/2024

6564 A Case Of Severe Hypercalcemia In Carney's Complex

Abstract Disclosure: J. Chippior: None. M. Rayan: None. L. Wright: None. L.S. Kirschner: Grant Recipient; Self; Medpace, Sparrow, Corcept Therapeutics, Corcept, Spruce, CinCor, Crinetics, Adrenas. S.W. Ing: Grant Recipient; Self; Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Amgen Inc, Radius Health, Inc, Takeda, Ultragenyx, Amolyt, Bridge Bio. Carney complex is a rare syndrome with fewer than 750 reported cases, characterized by lentigniosis, myxomas, and the occurrence of both endocrine and non-endocrine tumors. An inactivating mutation PRKAR1A, which encodes for the type 1A regulatory subunit of Protein kinase A, is responsible for over 70% of familial cases and 37% of sporadic cases. A 31-year-old female with a history of Carney complex, Cushing syndrome due to primary pigmented nodular adrenocortical disease (PPNAD), facial lentigines, spinal Schwannomas, and recent ischemic stroke secondary to embolization of a cardiac atrial myxoma, was transferred to our medical center for hyperemesis and severe hypercalcemia. Albumin-corrected serum calcium measured 15.4 mg/dL (8.6-10.5 mg/dL), ionized calcium 7.8 mg/dL (4.6-5.3 mg/dL) associated with suppressed PTH, normal PTH-related protein, and elevated bone turnover markers, C-telopeptide 4,273 pg/ml (150-635) and Procollagen Type 1 N-terminal Propeptide 222 mcg/L (19-83). Evaluation for etiology of hypercalcemia revealed elevated 1,25 dihydroxy vitamin D at 107.0 pg/ml (20-79) and elevated interleukin-6 at 11 pg/ml (<6.4). IL-6 is expressed by cardiac myxomas. Serum angiotensin-converting enzyme level was 50 U/L (16-85) and infectious workup was negative for potential granulomatous causes of elevated calcitriol (including testing for tuberculosis, histoplasma, blastomyces, bartonella, and coccidioides). CT angiogram of the abdomen and pelvis (completed in preparation of atrial myxoma resection) revealed ground-glass opacities in bilateral posterior lung fields and multiple pulmonary nodules, with the largest measuring 8 mm. After treatment with aggressive intravenous fluid resuscitation, intramuscular calcitonin, and intravenous zoledronic acid, corrected calcium normalized to 9.4 mg/dL at discharge. Urinary cortisol was 6.2 mcg per 24-hr (3.5-45), for which she started hydrocortisone 20 mg daily to treat suspected adrenal insufficiency as excess cortisol secretion in PPNAD may be episodic. Thus remission of hypercortisolism may have unmasked an underlying hypercalcemia, and adrenal insufficiency itself may have contributed to this finding. She had excision of left atrial myxoma and has continued to exhibit normal calcium levels on steroid replacement therapy. Repeat chest CT to further characterize these pulmonary findings is planned. This case illustrates a unique constellation of endocrine features associated with severe hypercalcemia in Carney complex. Presentation: 6/1/2024

Intergroup variability of the khakas based on non-metric cranial traits data

Introduction. The formation of the gene pool of modern Khakas people occurred through the interaction of various groups of ancient inhabitants of the Minusinsk Basin. This article is focused on the inter-group analysis of craniological series representing different Khakassian subethnic groups. Materials and Methods. The cranial series of the Kachins, Koibals, Sagais, and Beltirs was studied using the battery of 36 cranial non-metric characteristics. The obtained data was compared with data on other populations of Southern and Western Siberia: Shors, Tuvans, Telengits, Selkups, Khants, and Mansis. The analysis of the biological diversity of populations was carried out using Smith's mean measure of divergence (MMD) followed by multidimensional scaling and cluster analysis. Results. The Kachins are the most distant from the other Khakas subethnic groups, forming a cluster with the Telengits and Tuvans. The Koibals and Beltirs were positioned quite close to the Shors. The Sagais occupied a separate position in the Khakas cluster, presumably due to a greater proportion of Europoid admixture compared to other Khakas groups. The pooled Khakas sample shares similar cranial non-metric characteristics with Turkic-speaking ethnic groups of Southern Siberia: Shors, Telengits, and Tuvans. Discussion. The nature of phenetic differentiation of the Khakas sub-ethnic groups presumably reveals their complex population history. The position of the Kachins outside the Khakas cluster based on non-metric traits resulted from specificity of their phenofund, which is also supported by molecular genetic data. The similarity in the phenofund of the Khakas groups to those of the Tuvans and Telengits may result from gene flow between Khakas populations and the peoples of Southern Siberia or/and from their common episodes in their ethnogenesis. The similarity between pooled Khakassian sample and the Shors presumably suggests involvement of common genetic components in the gene pools of these peoples, which is consistent with molecular genetic data. Conclusion. The correspondence of the obtained results with genetic data suggests the possibility of using cranial non-metric traits to identify genetic relationships between ancient populations in the absence of direct genetic information.

8288 Navigating Diagnostic Challenges of Amiodarone Induced Thyrotoxicosis in a Psychiatrically Complex Patient within a Community Hospital Setting

Abstract Disclosure: M.S. Shah: None. K.P. Sanu: None. S. Humayon: None. R. Chawla: None. N.K. Bains: None. This case delves into the intricate diagnostic and therapeutic journey of a 64-year-old male who presented to a community hospital with psychosis. Medical history was pertinent for ventricular arrhythmias treated with amiodarone 400 mg once daily, bipolar disorder with medication non-compliance and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction status post automatic implantable cardioverter-defibrillator placement. Collaboration with the patient's family revealed a history of repeated hospitalizations for similar presentations as well as recent weight loss. The challenge lay in distinguishing between manic episodes and other potential underlying medical causes. The patient's recent weight loss and amiodarone use prompted a thyroid panel, revealing a TSH of 0.01 mlU/L (n = 0.27 to 4.20 mIU/L), free T4 of >7.77ng/dL (n = 0.93 to 1.70 ng/dL), and free T3 of >7.51ng/dL (n = 2.00 to 4.40 pg/mL). Inadequate facilities for a radioactive iodine uptake (RAIU) scan and thyroid doppler ultrasound heightened the diagnostic challenge, making the history and physical exam pivotal in steering the course of this patient's care. The Burch-Wartofsky score was found to be elevated at 30 due to delirium and abdominal pain reported in the emergency department. Amiodarone use for over two years with no prior history of thyroid dysfunction, along with the absence of a goiter or thyroid antibodies suggestive of Graves disease heightened the suspicion for amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis type 2 (AIT type 2). Due to the lack of RAIU scan and thyroid ultrasound to better differentiate between AIT type 1 and type 2, the patient was treated with methimazole and prednisone along with an antipsychotic medication regimen. The discontinuation of antipsychotic medications became necessary due to QTc prolongation and subsequent defibrillator discharge. The patient's further improvement without psychiatric medications highlighted the success of the tailored treatment strategy, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnosis in patients with psychiatric comorbidities. The patient’s relatively rapid clinical response also aids in differentiating AIT type 1 from type 2. This case brings awareness to the importance of a comprehensive history and physical exam, particularly in the setting of a community hospital with limited diagnostic resources. Despite the inability to obtain history directly from the patient and having diagnostic constraints, the judicious use of available resources and clinical acumen led to the diagnosis of Amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis type 2. Clinicians should keep a broad differential to avoid confirmation bias in treating psychiatric patients with a complex medical history. This case serves as a testament to the importance of a holistic approach to patient care and the need for ongoing advancements in diagnostic capabilities within community healthcare settings. Presentation: 6/2/2024

Widespread Wolbachia infection is correlated with increased mtDNA diversity in native bees across the Fijian archipelago

AbstractInsects have a complex coevolutionary history with bacterial symbionts, among which Wolbachia pipientis stands out for its prevalence and role in reproductive manipulation. Wolbachia can induce cytoplasmic incompatibility, feminisation, male killing, and parthenogenesis, greatly influence the population genetics of their hosts and are potential drivers of invertebrate speciation. We might then assume that Wolbachia could act synergistically with other factors, such as niche conservation and isolation by distance, to drive speciation in hyper-diverse invertebrate taxa. The Fijian archipelago hosts a remarkable and recently diverged clade of Lasioglossum (Homalictus) bees. Some of these Lasioglossum have highly unusual species-level sex ratios and mitochondrial diversities, which can be hallmarks of infection by a bacterial reproductive manipulator. To examine the role of Wolbachia in Fijian Lasioglossum speciation, we screened the endemic Fijian bees for Wolbachia using the Wolbachia surface protein gene (wsp). We compare the distribution of Wolbachia infection across species with host mitochondrial haplotype diversity and conducted phylogenetic analyses to determine the relationship of host relatedness and symbiont infection status. We found that Wolbachia haplotypes probably span across supergroups A and B. In addition, we found multiple haplotypes were highly similar, with the most abundant group of wsp haplotypes being closely related with the drosophila Wolbachia strain wHa. We found evidence of mostly horizontal and limited vertical transmission, and little evidence for Wolbachia-host cospeciation. We show that, contrary to general patterns, Wolbachia-infected Lasioglossum species have higher mitochondrial diversity. Finally, we present evidence for the potential of multiple modes of host manipulation in this clade.

Crustal structures and anisotropy in southeastern China: Continental collision and intraplate earthquakes

This study investigates the role of crustal structures and anisotropy in southeastern China regarding intraplate earthquakes within the context of concentrated and perturbed tectonic stresses. The region is characterized by a complex multiphase tectonic history,including the ongoing collision between the Philippine Plate and the South China Sea margin. Utilizing the teleseismic receiver function method, we offer a comprehensive depiction of the crustal structures and layered anisotropy in Guangdong and Fujian, two earthquake-prone areas. Our results reveal that the crustal anisotropy is stratified into two layers, with a slow axis perpendicular to the orogenic belt in the upper-middle crust, whereas the fast axis aligns perpendicularly at lower crust levels. The lateral heterogeneity and anisotropy of the crustal structure emphasize both the boundary delineation and differential movement between continental blocks. The observed increase in density and intensity of intraplate earthquakes across this boundary supports our conclusion regarding a connection between decoupled crustal deformation and seismicity. Specifically, the foliation of metamorphic rocks during the Mesozoic collision generated orogen-parallel fabrics in the upper-middle crust, while ductile shearing resulted in orogen-perpendicular fast directions at lower crust levels. In contrast, mismatch evolution between continental blocks reactivated by present collision provides stress conditions conducive to earthquake occurrence in southeastern China. Our findings provide valuable insights into mechanisms behind intraplate earthquakes as well as tectonic evolution within continental collision zones.Plain Language SummaryThe mechanism of intraplate earthquakes is a topic of great interest in the study of continental collision and regional tectonic evolution. The controlling factors behind these earthquakes are highly complex and uncertain. In this study, we aim to investigate the role of crustal structures and anisotropy in southeastern China within the context of intraplate seismic activity. This region, which is currently experiencing a collision between the Philippine Plate and the South China Sea Margin, has a multiphase tectonic history that includes remnants of paleo-Pacific subduction. By utilizing the receiver function method, we provide a detailed picture of crustal structures and layered anisotropy in Guangdong and Fujian, two earthquake-prone regions in southeastern China. Our findings reveal that anisotropy in the crust can be stratified into two layers: an upper-middle crust and a lower crust with a slow axis and a fast axis, both perpendicular to the orogeny, respectively. The lateral heterogeneity and anisotropy of the crustal structure highlight the boundary and differential movement between the continental blocks. The enhanced density and intensity of the intraplate earthquakes across this boundary provide evidence for a connection between decoupled crustal deformation and seismicity. Specifically, our observations suggest that (1) the Mesozoic continental collision induced metamorphic foliation in the upper-middle crust, (2) ductile shearing is characteristic of the lower crust, and (3) ongoing collision has led to mismatch evolution between continental blocks, which creates stress conditions favorable for earthquake occurrence.

Novel adomavirus associated with proliferative skin lesions affecting the dermal denticles of a sand tiger shark (Carcharias taurus).

A captive sand tiger shark (Carcharias taurus) presented with progressive, hard, raised, miliary skin lesions localized to the lateral trunk and peduncle. Histopathologic evaluation of biopsy samples revealed dysplastic proliferation of odontogenic epithelium with the production of collagenous material. Inclusion bodies and viral particles were not observed with light or transmission electron microscopy, respectively. However, using next generation sequencing with Illumina MiSeq and PCR followed by Sanger sequencing, the complete genome of a novel adomavirus, tentatively named sand tiger shark adomavirus (STAdoV), was obtained from the affected tissue. The genome was circular and 18.5 kilobases with bidirectionally transcribed genes, namely EO1, EO2 & 4, EO3, LO4, LO5, LO6, LO7, LO8, and SET. In situ hybridization using RNAscope® technology and a STAdoV specific probe localized viral DNA to the nuclei of proliferating epithelial cells. Adomaviruses are an emerging viral group with structural and replicative genes sharing a complex evolutionary history with adenoviruses and small circular DNA tumor viruses including papillomaviruses and polyomaviruses. Adomaviruses are described in a number of fish species in association with both necrotizing and proliferative diseases. BLAST analysis of the viral genome revealed greatest nucleotide identity (71.29%) to guitarfish adomavirus (GAdoV), another elasmobranch virus associated with proliferative (epidermal) skin lesions. Lesions in the index animal persisted for approximately 1 year during which time four conspecifics developed similar proliferations. Ultimately, lesions in all sharks regressed spontaneously without recurrence for 2 years.

Forced Labour, Global Supply Chain and TNCs: Recent Trends and Practices

The abolition of forced labour is a fundamental element of contemporary international human rights law, but the idea has undergone a protracted and complex history, and the scope of the various international mechanisms that handle different aspects of it is not always precisely defined. Slavery, forced labour, and related practices are strictly prohibited under international law. Forced labour is a longstanding and complex obstacle in global supply chains, frequently associated with the desire for inexpensive products and the outsourcing of manufacturing processes to nations with lax labour regulations. The growing power of transnational corporations (TNCs) poses significant challenges to workers at the bottom of supply chains. However, disagreements have made it unclear how to deal with new forms of forced labour, or modern forms of slavery. This confusion highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to combating these issues. Efforts to stop or restrict forced labour will be made easier with a clear legal definition at both the national and international levels, particularly with an emphasis on the human rights perspective.

Intraspecies mitogenomic variation in the Black-throated Tit (Aegithalos concinnus): conserved structure, concerted evolution of duplicate control regions and multiple distinct evolutionary lineages

The mitochondrial genome is a prominent research topic due to its indispensable role in organisms and its application in many research disciplines. However, few studies have investigated intraspecies mitogenomic variation. In this study, 69 mitogenomes of the Black-throated Tit (Aegithalos concinnus) were assembled and annotated from a large number of short reads generated using high-throughput sequencing technology. Comparative analyses revealed that mitogenomic characteristics such as length, gene and nucleotide composition, codon usage, and duplicated control regions were relatively conserved despite substantial intraspecies morphological changes. Yet, all the individuals from the subspecies A. c. iredalei had one more nucleotide in the 12S rRNA than the other studied subspecies. Phylogenetic analyses showed five distinct lineages based on the complete mitogenomes and the 13 combined protein-coding genes, whereas only four lineages were observed when using the duplicate control regions. Most interestingly, each lineage had both copies of the control regions of the comprising individuals, indicating that the paralogous control regions were more similar than the orthologous sequences from the distinct lineages. This suggested the control regions had undergone concerted evolution. The Black-throated Tit has complex evolutionary history and needs further investigating the taxonomic status of these lineages, as well as the underlying evolutionary processes. Our findings call for more research on intraspecies mitogenomic variation.

Dynamic simulation of differential accumulation history of deep marine oil and gas in superimposed basin: A case study of Lower Paleozoic petroleum system of Tahe Oilfield, Tarim Basin, NW China

According to the complex differential accumulation history of deep marine oil and gas in superposition basins, the Lower Paleozoic petroleum system in Tahe Oilfield of Tarim Basin is selected as a typical case, and the process of hydrocarbon generation and expulsion, migration and accumulation, adjustment and transformation of deep oil and gas is restored by means of reservoine-forming dynamics simulation. The thermal evolution history of the Lower Cambrian source rocks in Tahe Oilfield reflects the obvious differences in hydrocarbon generation and expulsion process and intensity in different tectonic zones, which is the main reason controlling the differences in deep oil and gas phases. The complex transport system composed of strike-slip fault and unconformity, etc. controlled early migration and accumulation and late adjustment of deep oil and gas, while the Middle Cambrian gypsum-salt rock in inner carbonate platform prevented vertical migration and accumulation of deep oil and gas, resulting in an obvious “fault-controlled” feature of deep oil and gas, in which the low potential area superimposed by the NE-strike-slip fault zone and deep oil and gas migration was conducive to accumulation, and it is mainly beaded along the strike-slip fault zone in the northeast direction. The dynamic simulation of reservoir formation reveals that the spatio-temporal configuration of “source-fault-fracture-gypsum-preservation” controls the differential accumulation of deep oil and gas in Tahe Oilfield. The Ordovician has experienced the accumulation history of multiple periods of charging, vertical migration and accumulation, and lateral adjustment and transformation, and deep oil and gas have always been in the dynamic equilibrium of migration, accumulation and escape. The statistics of residual oil and gas show that the deep stratum of Tahe Oilfield still has exploration and development potential in the Ordovician Yingshan Formation and Penglaiba Formation, and the Middle and Upper Cambrian ultra-deep stratum has a certain oil and gas resource prospect. This study provides a reference for the dynamic quantitative evaluation of deep oil and gas in the Tarim Basin, and also provides a reference for the study of reservoir formation and evolution in carbonate reservoir of paleo-craton basin.

Melt embayments record multi-stage magma decompression histories

Over the last decade, the melt embayment has proven its merit as a robust petrological tool capable of recording magma decompression rates for explosive eruptions. However, the models developed and applied to extract this information from embayments have not accounted for the complexity and nonlinearity of magma flow in the conduit. We present Embayment Decompression in Two Stages (EDiTS): a numerical model for extracting magma decompression rates from measured volatile diffusion profiles preserved in crystal-hosted embayments, approximating magma acceleration using two constant-rate decompression paths. This model solves for three unknown parameters: initial (deeper) and final (shallower) decompression rates, as well as the pressure where a transition occurs. We successfully benchmark EDiTS against existing numerical diffusion models, and use controlled multi-stage decompression experiments on natural quartz-hosted embayments to test the ability of our model to recover known decompression paths. We find that EDiTS is able to closely approximate the known two-stage path in the mixed-volatile (H2O + CO2) experiment, while a constant-rate modeling approach is unable to simultaneously fit H2O and CO2 gradients. However, in the H2O-saturated experiment, there is no unique solution to the resulting gradient, with both constant-rate and two-stage models reproducing the measured profile, and EDiTS notably overestimating the known total ascent time by several hours. Using decompression experiments, we show that constant-rate models can provide misleadingly good fits to embayment H2O gradients produced by more complex decompression histories, and thus the measurement and modeling of multiple diffusing species, when available, can provide crucial constraints. We then apply EDiTS to re-evaluate mixed-volatile embayment datasets from explosive silicic arc and caldera-forming eruptions from five volcanic centers (Yellowstone, WY, USA; Bandelier, NM, USA; Long Valley, CA, USA; Taupo, NZ; Mount St. Helens, WA, USA), where all systems contain initial CO2. In contrast to the minutes to hours of total ascent time extracted from embayment volatile profiles using constant-rate models, our two-stage model resolves slower initial ascent times that span several to >10 h. Final ascent rates are 1–2 orders of magnitude faster than the initial extracted rates, in agreement with theoretical conduit flow model predictions. Application of EDiTS to embayments from the May 18th, 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens results in an initial stage of ascent on the order of hours consistent with the timing of magma arrival at the surface from the seismically-inferred storage region (7–9 km) ~3.5 h after the initial blast, and a final stage of ascent (<1–5 min) in close agreement with time-integrated bubble number densities. Our combined numerical, experimental, and natural results suggest that, with the application of more advanced models, the melt embayment can provide a complete picture of magma decompression timescales from the deep conduit to the surface.

Late-stage evolution of hypogene caves at Tyuya-Muyun (Kyrgyzstan): Quantitative insights from mineral deposits

The Tyuya-Muyun massif in SW Kyrgyzstan hosts a number of caves some of which contain Ra- and U-bearing minerals that were extensively mined in the early 20th century. Previous studies have suggested that the caves of the Tyuya-Muyun have experienced a complex speleogenetic history, including epigene and hypogene processes. Here, we reconstruct the late stages of hypogene processes by studying subaqueous (calcite and barite spars, cave clouds), near-water table (rafts, folia) and vadose (flowstone) mineral deposits in Great Barite and Surprise caves. We determined the chronology (230Th dating), stable isotope composition (δ18O, δ13C and Δ47), and formation temperature (fluid inclusion microthermometry and Δ47) of these minerals and reconstructed the oxygen isotopic composition of the paleo-water (δ18Ow). In contrast to previous hypotheses about cave evolution, we found no evidence of an initial epigenic karst phase. The earliest mineral deposits suggest already hydrothermal conditions, with calcite and barite forming at ~40–50 °C prior to 600 ka. Cave clouds in Great Barite Cave mark the beginning of the lowering of the groundwater table and also record a decrease in water temperature from 29.7 ± 8.3 °C to 12.7 ± 5.6 °C, as shown by Δ47 thermometry. The latter temperature remained stable, within analytical uncertainties, during the past 600 ka, as indicated by Δ47 results of near-water table and vadose speleothems in Surprise Cave. At the same time, the decrease in δ18Ow suggests a reduced contribution of thermal water and an increased input of colder meteoric water. By around 540–450 ka Surprise Cave emerged from the phreatic zone, as indicated by 230Th ages of the highest folia and flowstone. This lowering of the water table continued until 84 ka and may have been related to the final uplift phase of the Tyuya-Muyun massif and the concomitant incision of the Aravan River forming the Dangi Gorge.

A pioneer of hormonal contraception: Joseph W. Goldzieher.

On 19 July, 2024, at the age of almost 105 years, Joseph W. Goldzieher, the last survivor of the group of pioneers who created oral contraception, peacefully passed away. Here we briefly reconstruct the salient points in his long, productive life, and highlight his achievements in the development of hormonal contraception. His work is indissolubly enshrined in the complex history of hormonal contraception, from the first, fundamental observations, to the first clinical trials, both in the form of combined oestrogen-progestin oral pills and long-acting injectable contraceptives. After Pincus and his Group created an oral contraceptive containing an oestrogen and a progestin, Goldzieher was the second international scientist to conduct clinical trials of the new modality. He teamed-up with investigators in Mexico creating a fruitful, long-lasting collaboration. They produced evidence that ovulation inhibition could be achieved with all the progestins used at the time. Of importance, he was among the first to explore the possibility of using oestrogens to block ovulation, and developed the concept of sequential contraception. For all this lifetime of work, we believe he deserves to be named a 'giant in reproductive endocrinology'.

Phylogeography of the Island Leaf Warbler (Aves: Phylloscopus Poliocephalus) in Northern Melanesia Reveals Rapid Secondary Sympatry or Ecological Speciation on Kolombangara Island, Solomon Islands

Island archipelagos are well known for promoting geographic and adaptive radiations in terrestrial animals. Sympatry of closely related species in island systems has been thought to occur primarily through double-invasions from the same continental source population. Alternatively, this process can occur on a smaller geographic scale where divergent populations isolated from one another within an archipelago may come back into contact via intra-archipelago dispersal. Depending on degree of divergence and the development of reproductive isolating barriers, the result of this secondary contact could be gene flow between isolated populations, exclusion or extirpation of one population via competition, or the establishment of reproductively isolated sympatric species. Here, we provide strong evidence for intra-archipelago secondary sympatry within a radiation of Phylloscopus warblers in the Solomon and Bismarck archipelagos by presenting the first well-sampled phylogeny of Phylloscopus warbler populations in the region. By using genome-wide genetic data and complete mitochondrial genomes we also present evidence for a complex history of mitochondrial-nuclear discordance within this radiation, particularly in the only pair of sympatric populations east of Wallace’s Line, located on Kolombangara Island in the Solomon Islands. Our genomic data suggest that the divergent single-island endemic species on Kolombangara (Phylloscopus amoenus) is not a relic resulting from a double invasion from outside the Bismarck and Solomon archipelagos as previously thought. Rather, the sympatry on Kolombangara Island between the widespread P. poliocephalus and the endemic P. amoenus appears to result from recent intra-archipelago diversification, either via sympatric speciation or the rapid establishment of secondary sympatry. These novel genomic data provide insights into the evolutionary history of Phylloscopus warblers in Melanesia and improve our general understanding of how biodiversity accumulates in island systems.

THOUGHTS ON THE STUDY OF JADID LITERATURE

This article provides an in-depth analysis of Jadid literature and its prominent figures, particularly the literary legacy of Cho'lpon and its role during the independence period. The article highlights the significance of works by Jadid poets and writers such as Cho'lpon, Fitrat, and Abdulla Qodiriy in fostering national identity and promoting ideas of independence, as well as how their works are interpreted in literary-critical studies. Additionally, it underscores the contributions of eminent scholars and critics, such as Ozod Sharafiddinov, in the study and promotion of Cho'lpon’s works. The article discusses the complex history of Jadid literature, its themes of national freedom, spirituality, and progress, and its relevance as a source of inspiration for today’s youth.

Biotic interactions, evolutionary forces and the pan-plant specialized metabolism.

Plant specialized metabolism has a complex evolutionary history. Some aspects are conserved across the green lineage, but many metabolites are unique to certain lineages. The network of specialized metabolism continuously diversified, simplified or reshaped during the evolution of streptophytes. Many routes of pan-plant specialized metabolism are involved in plant defence. Biotic interactions are recalled as major drivers of lineage-specific metabolomic diversification. However, the consequences of this diversity of specialized metabolism in the context of plant terrestrialization and land plant diversification into the major lineages of bryophytes, lycophytes, ferns, gymnosperms and angiosperms remain only little explored. Overall, this hampers conclusions on the evolutionary scenarios that shaped specialized metabolism. Recent efforts have brought forth new streptophyte model systems, an increase in genetically accessible species from distinct major plant lineages, and new functional data from a diversity of land plants on specialized metabolic pathways. In this review, we will integrate the recent data on the evolution of the plant immune system with the molecular data of specialized metabolism and its recognition. Based on this we will provide a contextual framework of the pan-plant specialized metabolism, the evolutionary aspects that shape it and the impact on adaptation to the terrestrial environment.This article is part of the theme issue 'The evolution of plant metabolism'.