Search

The compositions of metalliferous sediments associated with hydrothermal vents can provide key geochemical data for locating seafloor sulfides. In this study, we present the geochemistry of seabed sediments from the Xunmei hydrothermal field (HF) in the South Mid-Atlantic Ridge (SMAR). The results indicate that the sediments are mainly composed of pelagic material (biogenic calcium components), basaltic debris, iron-manganese oxides, and hydrothermal components. The sediments are significantly enriched in Cu, Zn, Fe, and Co deriving from hydrothermal fluids, as well as Mn, V, Mo, U, and P, which are primarily scavenged from seawater. The northeastern Xunmei has the highest concentrations of Cu and Zn, while the northeastern, northern, and southern regions are characterized by great inputs of Fe. Manganese and Mo are mainly enriched in the western and southern parts and show a strong positive correlation, indicating that Mo is mainly scavenged by Mn oxides. Uranium, P, and Fe exhibit strong positive correlations, suggesting that they coprecipitate with Fe from hydrothermal plumes. Vanadium and Co are introduced into sediments in different ways: V is scavenged and coprecipitated by hydrothermal plumes, and Co is derived from sulfide debris. Based on the contents of Cu and Zn and Cu/Fe (0.159), Zn/Fe (0.158), and Fe/Mn (1440) ratios, it can be inferred that a high-temperature hydrothermal vent existed in northeastern Xunmei. In combination with the distribution patterns of the above elements, the hydrothermal vents in the southern part ceased erupting after a short period of activity. In addition, the high Mn anomaly and the high U/Fe ratios at the boundaries of the investigated area indicate the presence of a relatively oxidized environment in southwestern Xunmei. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clay minerals are usually considered as important indicators to identify sources in both terrigenous and marine sediments. In particular, clay minerals in metalliferous sediments (MS) have long been studied in global oceans except in South Mid-Atlantic Ridge (SMAR) due to limited explorations. Thus, 32 MS and 34 non-MS (NMS) samples were analyzed to clarify the distribution characteristics and mineral compositions of clay minerals. All the sediments were collected along the SMAR between 12°S and 27°S. After removal of organic matter and carbonate, clay fractions (<2 µm) were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. Results show that clay mineral assemblages of surface MS consist dominantly of smectite, less abundant illite, chlorite, and kaolinite in average weight percentage of 30%, 21%, 18%, and 16%, respectively. On the other hand, clay mineral assemblages in the NMS consist mainly of illite, less abundant kaolinite, chlorite, and very scarce smectite in average weight percentage of 47%, 29%, 24%, and 0.2%, respectively. The clay fractions in MS are mainly composed of amorphous or poorly crystallized Fe/Mn oxyhydroxides, clay mineral, quartz, and plagioclase. However, the counterparts in the NMS are mainly composed of well-crystallized clay minerals, quartz, and plagioclase without the presence of Fe/Mn oxyhydroxides. It is suggested that most of the illite, kaolinite, and chlorite in both MS and NMS are likely aeolian dust in origin from South Africa continent. In addition, the abundance of kaolinite dominates the clay mineral assemblage at low latitudes, where the intensive chemical weathering of continental source rocks facilitating the formation of kaolinite. In terms of smectite, it is indicated of authigenic origin in consideration of only smectite is available in several MS and the absence in NMS. Moreover, the MS samples with only smectite available are always accompanied by goethite. Therefore, it is assumed that most of smectite occurred in studied area is the results of interaction between hydrothermal Fe-oxyhydroxide, silica, and seawater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABA signaling core components PYR/PYL, group A PP2C and SnRK2 play important roles in various environmental stress responses of plants. This study identified 14 PYR/PYL , 9 PP2C (A) , and 10 SnRK2 genes from halophytic Eutrema. Phylogenetic analysis showed 4 EsPYR/PYL, 4 EsPP2C (A) and 3 EsSnRK2 subfamilies characterized, which was supported by their gene structures and protein motifs. Large-scale segmental duplication event was demonstrated to be a major contributor to expansion of the EsPYL-PP2C (A)-SnRK2 gene families. Synteny relationship analysis revealed more orthologous PYL-PP2C (A)-SnRK2 gene pairs located in collinear blocks between Eutrema and Brassica than that between Eutrema and Arabidopsis. RNA-seq and qRT-PCR revealed EsABI1, EsABI2 and EsHAL2 showed a significantly up-regulated expression in leaves and roots in response to ABA, NaCl or cold stress. Three markedly co-expression modules of ABA/R-brown, NaCl/L-lightsteelblue1 and Cold/R-lightgreen were uncovered to contain EsPYL-PP2C (A)-SnRK2 genes by WGCNA analysis. GO and KEGG analysis indicated that the genes of ABA/R-brown module containing EsHAB1 , EsHAI2 and EsSnRK2.6 were enriched in proteasome pathway. Further, EsHAI2-OE transgenic Arabidopsis lines showed significantly enhanced seeds germination and seedlings growth. This work provides a new insight for elucidating potential molecular functions of PYL-PP2C (A)-SnRK2 responding to ABA and abiotic stresses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present new major and trace element and Sr-Nd-Pb isotope data for basalts from the 25.3–27.7°S segments of the South Mid-Atlantic Ridge (SMAR). A fractional crystallization model shows that olivine, plagioclase, and clinopyroxene crystals crystallized in the magmatic chamber underlying the SMAR 27.1°S and 27.7°S segments, while the SMAR 25.3°S segment basaltic lavas are dominated by fractional crystallization of olivine and plagioclase. Their Ce/Yb, (Tb/Yb) N , and Fe/Mn ratios suggest a mantle source lithology dominated by spinel-lherzolite. The linear correlations between Mg# and TiO 2 , Ba, and Zr/Nb indicate that SMAR basalts in this study have primary mantle melts with similar chemical compositions and partial melting extents. The along-ridge variations in the fractionation-corrected incompatible element (Ba, Zr/Nb, (La/Sm) N) and Sr-Nd-Pb isotope compositions of the SMAR 20–40°S basalts show that Tristan mantle plume materials exist in the SMAR asthenosphere and gradually decrease from the southern SMAR 35°S segment in the vicinity of Tristan Island to the northern SMAR 25.3–27.7°S segments. The mixing models of the fractionation-corrected Ba contents, (La/Sm) N ratios and radiogenic Sr-Nd-Pb isotope ratios show that variable degrees of contamination by the Tristan mantle plume contribute to the heterogeneous SMAR 20–40°S mantle source. The proportion of Tristan plume-related materials retained in the SMAR 20–40°S asthenosphere is <10%, which gradually decreases from south to north. By integrating the evolution of the South Atlantic and the historical interaction between the SMAR system and the Tristan mantle plume, we demonstrate that the systematic variations in the geochemical compositions of the SMAR 25.3–27.7°S basalts are induced by the presence of the Tristan mantle plume materials in the southern SMAR asthenosphere. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABA signaling core components PYR/PYL, group A PP2C and SnRK2 play important roles in various environmental stress responses of plants. This study identified 14 PYR/PYL , 9 PP2C (A) , and 10 SnRK2 genes from halophytic Eutrema. Phylogenetic analysis showed 4 EsPYR/PYL, 4 EsPP2C (A) and 3 EsSnRK2 subfamilies characterized, which was supported by their gene structures and protein motifs. Large-scale segmental duplication event was demonstrated to be a major contributor to expansion of the EsPYL-PP2C (A)-SnRK2 gene families. Synteny relationship analysis revealed more orthologous PYL-PP2C (A)-SnRK2 gene pairs located in collinear blocks between Eutrema and Brassica than that between Eutrema and Arabidopsis. RNA-seq and qRT-PCR revealed EsABI1, EsABI2 and EsHAL2 showed a significantly up-regulated expression in leaves and roots in response to ABA, NaCl or cold stress. Three markedly co-expression modules of ABA/R-brown, NaCl/L-lightsteelblue1 and Cold/R-lightgreen were uncovered to contain EsPYL-PP2C (A)-SnRK2 genes by WGCNA analysis. GO and KEGG analysis indicated that the genes of ABA/R-brown module containing EsHAB1 , EsHAI2 and EsSnRK2.6 were enriched in proteasome pathway. Further, EsHAI2-OE transgenic Arabidopsis lines showed significantly enhanced seeds germination and seedlings growth. This work provides a new insight for elucidating potential molecular functions of PYL-PP2C (A)-SnRK2 responding to ABA and abiotic stresses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seafloor hydrothermal sulfides at slow-spreading mid-ocean ridges (MORs) are of economic and scientific significance. The formation of newly discovered submarine hydrothermal sulfides on the South Mid-Atlantic Ridge (SMAR), particularly with respect to the fluid evolution, remains poorly understood. The Xunmei hydrothermal field is a typical volcanic dome-type hydrothermal field at 26°S on the SMAR. Based on the mineralogical zonation and assemblages, six distinct ore-forming stages were identified from low- to high-temperature stages with a seafloor weathering stage. The crystallinity of pyrite/marcasite and grain size of chalcopyrite increase gradually from the outer rim to the inner conduit of a sulfide chimney. The positive δ34S V-CDT values of pyrite/marcasite (2.1‰–8.2‰), chalcopyrite (2.5‰–5.6‰), and sphalerite (2.9‰–7.0‰) suggest 62%–91% of S was derived from the leaching of basement basalts, 9%–38% from reduction of seawater sulfate. In situ trace element data for sulfides show enrichments in Mn, Ag, Tl, and Pb in outer zones A and B, while enrichments in Se, In, and Sn in inner zones C and D, indicating an increase in precipitation temperature during chimney growth. Low pyrite Co contents, low Tl/Pb, low Sb/Pb, low Bi/Pb, high As, Ag, Cu, and Pb concentrations, suggesting that the pyrites precipitated from fluids that may have undergone supercritical phase separation during their ascent. High-temperature, Cl-depleted, vapor-rich hydrothermal fluids discharged into ambient cold seawater over multiple stages and probably evolved from low (<240 °C) to medium (∼ 263 °C) and high (∼ 317 °C) temperatures, reached a highest temperature of ∼335 °C, and then evolved to medium to low temperatures (∼ 270 °C to <240 °C) during the wanning of hydrothermal venting. The sulfur fugacity (f S 2) likely evolved from a relatively low to high condition within the scope of intermediate sulfidation, and then decreased to low condition. The redox states (f O 2) probably were strongly affected by seawater influx and evolved from relatively oxidized to original reduced conditions. The salinity decreased during chimney growth. Sulfide precipitation in the Xunmei hydrothermal field probably was the result of a combination of fluid-seawater mixing and phase separation. We propose a chimney growth and hydrothermal evolution models for the Xunmei hydrothermal field. • Low pyrite Co contents suggest that the fluids that may have undergone supercritical phase separation during their ascent. • Sulfide precipitation in the Xunmei hydrothermal field was the result of a combination of fluid mixing and phase separation. • Fluid physicochemical conditions during the fluid evolution of chimney growth can be revealed by trace element of sulfide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mantle convection plays a key role in magmatism and volcanism on Earth. The final distribution of deep mantle material upwelled into the asthenosphere cannot be clearly tracked using seismic imaging techniques. Where mid-ocean ridges and plumes interact, the along-ridge variations in plume-affected basalts constrain the spatial extent of the plume-related flow in the asthenosphere. These variations are helpful for revealing convection throughout the mantle from the core-mantle boundary (CMB) to the bottom of the lithosphere. In this study, regional geophysical data, as well as the results of geochemical independent component analysis of radiogenic Sr–Nd-Pb isotopes of South Mid-Atlantic Ridge (SMAR) basalts, were used to analyze the distribution characteristics of the plume-affected asthenosphere beneath the South Atlantic Ocean. We determined that the ridge scope of the Ascension plume-influenced SMAR segments is bounded by the Ascension transform fracture (~ 7.5°S) to the north and the Bode Verde transform fracture (~ 11.1°S) to the south, while the Saint Helena plume-contaminated SMAR segments are bounded by the Cardno transform fracture (~ 14.2°S) to the north and the Trinidade transform fracture (~ 20.8°S) to the south. Furthermore, we determined that the melt extraction process taking place between the mantle plume and ridge system may weaken the plume-related geochemical signals of these plume-affected MORBs. Our results suggest that the distribution of plume-related asthenosphere under the South Atlantic is influenced by large transform faults that block the propagation of the plumes along the bottom of the lithosphere, as well as the propagation of plume-affected materials along the ridge system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The Tongguan hydrothermal field is the southernmost SMS discovered so far on the South Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Its discovery provides clues for prospecting mineral resources in the South Mid-Atlantic Ridge. • The black smoker chimney in our study is a mature chimney and perfectly preserved which provides a unique opportunity to supply evidence to exhibit the on-going ore-forming process. • Cobalt concentrations in pyrite from the modern black smoker chimneys located on mid-ocean ridges apparently vary systematically in response to salinity change of vent fluids. • Different degrees of fluid-seawater mixing and phase separation are the main controlling factors during the black smoker chimney formation. Up to now, the Tongguan hydrothermal field is the southernmost-distributed modern submarine massive sulfide discovered on the South Mid-Atlantic Ridge. A well-preserved black smoker chimney which contains three distinct concentric zones was collected from the active vent field. The external outer wall of the chimney contains mainly pyrite with minor sphalerite, chalcopyrite and galena. The sulfides within the internal middle layer consist of predominant pyrite, with lesser amounts of marcasite. The axial conduit is dominated by chalcopyrite, with minor pyrite. To clarify the ore-forming fluid evolution during the black smoker chimney growth, we performed detailed petrographic and laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICPMS) studies on pyrite grains from the chimney. Seven types of pyrite: framboidal, relict, colloform, dendritic, massive, euhedral and lined pyrites, are identified from exterior to interior of the chimney. As shown by the results of LA-ICPMS, geochemical compositions of pyrite vary across the chimney. Generally, low-temperature elements (Mg, V, Mn, Pb, Zn, Ag and Tl) are enriched in pyrite in the outer wall of the chimney and decrease toward the interior zones. Elements indicative of high temperature conditions, such as Se and Te, show opposite trends and are enriched in pyrite within the inner zones of the chimney. Framboidal, relict, colloform and dendritic pyrites precipitate from low to mid temperature fluids (<250 °C), while massive and euhedral pyrites are products of ore-forming fluids characterized by mid to high temperature (250 to > 335 °C). Relict and lined pyrites have the same chemical signatures, suggesting that they precipitated under similar physicochemical conditions. The observed patterns are resulted from the changes in temperature and fluid chemistry caused by interactions of between seawater and hydrothermal fluids with each other in the chimney. Cobalt concentrations in pyrite from the modern black smoker chimneys located on the mid-ocean ridge apparently vary systematically in response to salinity change of vent fluids. The low Co contents (average 0.32 ppm) in pyrite suggest that the hydrothermal fluids vented from the black smoker chimney are Cl-depleted compared to seawater, most likely caused by phase separation. The systematic variations in geochemistry and morphology of the pyrite across the chimney reflect multiple stages of mineralization. Different degrees of fluid-seawater mixing and phase separation are the main controlling factors during the chimney formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Located at the collision boundary between the Philippine Sea Plate and the Eurasian Continental Plate, the island of Taiwan is generally recognized as an important example in the MARGINS Program Science Plan and 'source-to-sink' research because of its high tectonic activity, heavy rainfall and unique geography. Large suspended sediment loads are transported to the adjacent ocean by Taiwanese rivers every year, making Taiwan an important source of sediments into the adjacent seas and a natural laboratory for studying the systemic movement of fluvial sediments from source to sink. A detailed study on the clay mineral composition of surface sediments collected from the drainage basins of 12 Taiwanese rivers using X-ray diffraction methods was conducted. Our results indicated that the clay mineral assemblages consisted dominantly of illite (approximately 73%) and chlorite (approximately 24%), with lesser abundances of kaolinite (approximately 3%) and even lower levels of smectite from the Danshuei River sediments in northwestern Taiwan. The Jhuoshuei River sediments from western Taiwan contained clay mineral assemblages that consisted of illite (approximately 75%) and chlorite (approximately 25%), but they lacked kaolinite and smectite. In southwestern Taiwan, the clay mineral assemblages were dominated by illite (approximately 75%) and chlorite (approximately 23%), but had a low abundance of kaolinite (generally < 2%) and no smectite. The clay mineral assemblages in eastern Taiwan are obviously different from those in western parts of the island. The most noticeable difference is that the average abundance of chlorite in the Hualien River from eastern Taiwan was the highest (approximately 48%) of all the Taiwanese rivers. We concluded that, in general, the clay mineral assemblages in Taiwanese rivers were mainly composed of illite and chlorite with kaolinite and smectite being scarce, and these trends are different from those in China's mainland rivers. The clay mineral composition shown in this study was primarily determined by the properties of the bedrock, and the differential weathering intensities of the drainage area. The surface sediments in Taiwan's rivers showed a greater abundance of illite and chlorite because the outcropped rocks were mainly composed of Tertiary sedimentary rocks, especially sandstone, shale and slate, and show strong physical weathering. The relatively high relief and more abundant rainfall also caused the clay minerals in the fluvial sediments to be transported to the estuaries down rivers from the mountains and then delivered to the adjacent seas by currents and waves over a shorter time scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a high-sedimentation rate depocenter along the path of the Kuroshio Current, the southwesternmost part of the Okinawa Trough is a key area to understand the Kuroshio history and sediments transportation. A 34.17-m-long sediment core was obtained by the advanced piston corer of Marco Polo/IMAGES XII MARION DUFRESNE during the May 2005 from the Southern Okinawa Trough at site MD05-2908. The recovered sediments were analyzed by AMS 14C dating, coarse size fraction (>63 pm) extraction and moisture content determination in order to study its sedimentation flux and provenance. The depth-age relationship of core MD05-2908 was well constrained by 17 14C dating points. The sediments span across the mid-Holocene (6.8 ka B.P.) and have remarkablely high sedimentation rates between 1.8 and 21.2 m ka-1, which is well consistent with the modern observations from sediment traps. We identified five 70-200 a periods of abnormally rapid sedimentation events at 6790-6600 a B.P., 5690-5600 a B.P., 4820-4720 a B.P., 1090-880 a B.P., and 260-190 a B.P., during which the highest sedimentation rate is up to 21.2 m/ka. In general, the lithology of the sediments were dominated by silt and clay, associated with less than 5% coarse size fraction (>63 pm). As the most significant sediment source, the Lanyang River in northeastern Taiwan annually deliver about 10Mt materials to the coastal and offshore region of northeast Taiwan, a portion of which could be carried northward by currents toward the study area. Therefore, we concluded that the 5 abnormally rapid sedimentation events may be related to intensified rainfall in Taiwan and thus increased materials to our study area at that time. However, a few extreme-rapid sedimentation events cannot be explained by normal river runoff alone. The large earth-quakes or typhoons induced hyperpycnal discharge of fluvial sediment to the ocean may also act as a potential source supply to the Okinawa Trough. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flavonoids are representative secondary metabolites with different metabolic functions in plants. Previous study found that ectopic expression of EsMYB90 from Eutremasalsugineum could strongly increase anthocyanin content in transgenic tobacco via regulating the expression of anthocyanin biosynthesis genes. In the present research, metabolome analysis showed that there existed 130 significantly differential metabolites, of which 23 metabolites enhanced more than 1000 times in EsMYB90 transgenic tobacco leaves relative to the control, and the top 10 of the increased metabolites included caffeic acid, cyanidin O-syringic acid, myricetin and naringin. A total of 50 markedly differential flavonoids including flavones (14), flavonols (13), flavone C-glycosides (9), flavanones (7), catechin derivatives (5), anthocyanins (1) and isoflavone (1) were identified, of which 46 metabolites were at a significantly enhanced level. Integrated analysis of metabolome and transcriptome revealed that ectopic expression of EsMYB90 in transgenic tobacco leaves is highly associated with the prominent up-regulation of 16 flavonoid metabolites and the corresponding 42 flavonoid biosynthesis structure genes in phenylpropanoid/flavonoid pathways. Dual luciferase assay documented that EsMYB90 strongly activated the transcription of NtANS and NtDFR genes via improving their promoter activity in transiently expressed tobacco leaves, suggesting that EsMYB90 functions as a key regulator on anthocyanin and flavonoid biosynthesis. Taken together, the crucial regulatory role of EsMYB90 on enhancing many flavonoid metabolite levels is clearly demonstrated via modulating flavonoid biosynthesis gene expression in the leaves of transgenic tobacco, which extends our understanding of the regulating mechanism of MYB transcription factor in the phenylpropanoid/flavonoid pathways and provides a new clue and tool for further investigation and genetic engineering of flavonoid metabolism in plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The submarine camera system is one of the most effective detection methods for detecting seabed hydrothermal sulfide. The position fixing of camera equipment is generally achieved by the ultra-short baseline (USBL) positioning systems. The dynamic changes in the marine environment and the loss of acoustic signals lead to many abnormal points in the USBL positioning data. The existing methods cannot perform position fixing correction for USBL positioning data with many scattered abnormal points. This paper selects and focuses on the seabed camera data of the XunMei mineralization area acquired from the China South Atlantic voyage and employs the DTW optimization algorithm to solve this problem. This method is implemented based on Python language and an ArcGIS technical environment, and a total of 97,469 topographic profiles with 10 m spacing are extracted from the topographic data of the object area with 1m accuracy. Moreover, the highest similarity (95.9%) is obtained between the bathymetric profile of the camera survey line and the above topographic profile. The results indicate that the proposed algorithm is fast and effective, and the positioning correction accuracy of the deep-sea near-bottom camera data can reach the meter level (determined by the topographic data accuracy). Moreover, the solution can provide services for accurately position fixing near-bottom exploration equipment and its exploration data. It can also solve the problem of underwater position fixing problem that a GPS cannot solve. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Mineralogical and geochemical analysis of Taiji-2 subseafloor samples on the SMAR were conducted. • Mineralogical and pyrite chemistry differences between stockwork and semi-massive sulfide samples were revealed. • w and logf S2 decrease from subseafloor stockwork to semi-massive sulfide zone. • Three distinct mineralization stages were identified. In modern seafloor hydrothermal mineralization systems, subseafloor deposits are crucial alongside seafloor massive sulfides, consisting mainly of stockwork at the periphery and semi-massive sulfides at the central of subseafloor ore bodies. These two ore types exhibit contrasting mineralogical and elemental compositions, and the difference between their formation processes are unclear due to sampling challenges. The mafic-hosted Taiji-2 hydrothermal field, located on the Southern Mid-Atlantic Ridge, presents pyrite-enriched subseafloor sulfides on the seafloor, providing a good research opportunity. Our study included comprehensive analyses of mineralogy, pyrite chemistry, and in-situ sulfur isotopes through LA-MC-ICP-MS method on Taiji-2 subseafloor samples. Our findings suggest: (1) a hybrid source of ore-forming materials, (2) increased seawater involvement and decreased temperature and sulfur fugacity from the periphery to the central of subseafloor deposits, and (3) multistage of subseafloor ore-forming activities. Additionally, we characterized the seafloor alteration of Taiji-2 subseafloor sulfides. These results enhance our understanding of subseafloor mineralization in seafloor hydrothermal field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ion-adsorption deposits (IADs) are important types of REE deposits. Previous studies have found that, in IAD, REE3+ adsorb on the surface of clay minerals in the form of multi-coordinated hydrated complexes, [REE(H 2 O) 8/9 ]3+, forming exchangeable outer-sphere adsorption complex. Actually, there are two types of basal surfaces in clay minerals, the (001) surface and the (00−1) surface, and it is not clear whether there are differences in the adsorptions on these two types. Additionally, the electron transfer mechanism in the adsorption structures cannot be revealed. To address these issues, we employ first-principles calculations based on density functional study to simulate the outer-sphere adsorption structures of representative Y3+ ion on the two types of basal surface of kaolinite. The study reveals that both the (001) surface and the (00–1) surface can serve as adsorption surfaces, but the (00–1) surface forms more stable adsorption structures with adsorbate-[Y(H 2 O) 8 ]3+ due to the absence of hydroxyl group repulsion effects. The adsorption process involves electron transfer from the kaolinite basal surface to the adsorbate, forming hydrogen bonds. The primary orbital interaction in this process is between the O-2p orbitals of the adsorbate and the surface O-2p orbitals. This work contributes to a quantum-level understanding of the nature of ion adsorption in ion-adsorption deposit. • DFT studied Y3+ adsorption on kaolinite's (001) and (00-1) surfaces. • Y3+ mainly forms [Y(H 2 O) 8 ]3+ complexes in pure water. • (00-1) kaolinite surface is more stable for adsorption than (001). • Outer-sphere adsorption involves hydrogen bonding between adsorbate hydroxyl groups and surface O-2p orbitals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lavas from back‐arc basins are generally diverse, and their geochemical compositions indicate that they received variable contributions from subduction components during petrogenesis. Obtaining comprehensive geochemistry characteristics for the entire back‐arc basin are helpful in gaining a better understanding of the complexities of back‐arc evolution. In this study, we systematically reviewed the major and trace element compositions of Lau Basin lavas. This data set covered all of the major tectonic units of the basin, for example, the Eastern Lau spreading center (ELSC), the Valu Fa ridge (VFR), the Central Lau spreading center (CLSC), the Northwestern Lau spreading center (NWLSC), the Northeastern Lau spreading center (NELSC), the Mangatolu Triple Junction (MTJ), and the Fonualei Spreading Center (FSC). The lava types from these locations are diverse, including tholeiitic basalts, alkali basalts, basaltic andesites, andesites, dacites, and rhyolites. In addition, the NELSC and FSC contain boninites. In this study, the geochemical compositions of these diverse rock types are used to investigate the spreading dynamics of the Lau Basin back‐arc. We conclude that (a) the subduction components mainly include hydrous fluids released from the subducted slab, and hydrous melt directly from the melting subducted sediment, and the influence of the subducted components on the mantle wedge and the petrogenesis of the central and southern Lau Basin lavas decreases with increasing distance from the Tonga Trench; (b) during the propagation and spreading of the Samoan mantle into the Lau Basin, lavas from the NELSC, NWLSC, MTJ, and even from the northern part of the FSC may receive variable degrees of influence from the Samoan plume; and (c) the migration of Indian MORB‐like mantle southwards into the Pacific mantle is consistent with the opening of the Lau Basin. With the gradual migration of Indian mantle into the Lau Basin, a series of spreading centers were formed, for example, in order, the NWLSC, CLSC, ELSC, and the propagating VFR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Analytical results from fifty submarine sediment samples from six hydrothermal fields along the southern Mid-Atlantic Ridge are presented and discussed. • Sediments comprise calcareous biodetritus, hydrothermal and lithogenic materials and elements scavenged from seawater. • Analytical results imply two separate hydrothermal fluids with REE patterns exhibiting positive and absent Eu anomalies, respectively. • Both sulfide-rich and Si-Fe-Mn oxide-rich MS were precipitated from initial high-temperature hydrothermal fluids. • MS samples suggest different sedimentary processes in the northern and southern segments of the SMAR. In this study, we present mineralogical and geochemical analyses of 50 unconsolidated submarine surface sediments collected from separate locations within six active hydrothermal fields (Zouyu, Taij, Caifan, Deyin, Xunmei, and Tongguan) along the southern Mid-Atlantic Ridge (SMAR) at 12°S–28°S. The samples consisted of 33 metalliferous sediments (MS) and 17 non-metalliferous sediments (non-MS). The study area was divided into a northern segment that contained the Zouyu, Taij, Caifan, and Deyin hydrothermal fields and a southern segment containing the Xunmei and Tongguan hydrothermal fields. The presence of chalcopyrite, octahedral pyrite, and cubic pyrite without streaks on the surface of the sediments reflected a stable high temperature mineralization environment with a small temperature gradient in the Xunmei hydrothermal field. Cubic pyrite with growth striations co-existing with pentagonal dodecahedon-form pyrite indicated an unstable ore-forming environment with large temperature gradient in the early stage and a more stable ore-forming environment in the late stage in the Tongguan hydrothermal field. Major and trace element geochemistry data indicated that the most important material source for the abiogenic component of the sediments along SMAR 12°S–28°S was hydrothermal materials, the second most important source was lithogenic components, and the third source was elements scavenged from seawater. The Xunmei and Tongguan hydrothermal fields may have recorded phase separation, a process that would have resulted in the formation of two separate hydrothermal fluids, thereby forming two types of sulfide-rich MS with rare earth element (REE) patterns with positive and absent Eu anomalies, respectively. The Si-Fe-Mn oxide-rich MS had positive Eu anomalies, which also indicated that these oxides in sediments were directly precipitated from initial hydrothermal fluids at high temperature. The chlorite-rich MS exhibited nearly flat REE patterns similar to the volcanic material-rich samples and mid-ocean ridge basalt (MORB), which reflected the origin of the hydrothermal alteration of volcanic materials. In the northern segment, most of the MS were derived from plume fall-out Fe oxide particles. In addition, the chlorite-rich MS was likely derived from hydrothermal alteration. In the southern segment, the hydrothermal materials in the MS were primarily derived from the collapse of sulfide-bearing chimneys and Si-Fe-Mn oxide debris directly precipitated from hydrothermal fluids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The deep-sea camera is the most intuitive and effective detection tool for seabed investigation, and the accuracy of camera positioning can ensure its data value. A bundled ultra-short baseline (USBL) positioning system is generally employed to realize the spatial positioning of an underwater camera. The influence of the underwater acoustic environment and other factors cause USBL positioning data to become unstable, leading to abnormalities, or missing data, which creates difficulties for camera positioning. In order to solve the problem, this paper selects the seabed camera data of the "XunMei" mineralization area acquired from the China south Atlantic voyage. Moreover, the USBL positioning data, combined with high-precision terrain, bathymetry, and ship-borne GPS positioning data, were analyzed and mined comprehensively. In order to eliminate the abnormal data, a four-dimensional anomaly culling model of USBL positioning data is established based on the time and space scales through the ArcGIS tool. Then, modeling, simulation, and interpolation prediction are performed for the positioning data after anomaly elimination to achieve the geographic location correction of the hydrothermal sulfide near-bottom camera and its data. This method has achieved good results in practical applications. The corrected water depth profile of the camera survey line is compatible with the high-precision terrain detected at different times in the same area. The characteristics of the corrected video images are compatible with the sample characteristics of the TV grab sampling position. A set of high-quality positioning data (sampling test 5000 points) not participating in the correction model is compared with the corrected USBL data at the same position. The following results are obtained: in the case of a confidence interval of 95%, the correlation coefficient is 1, the significance is 0, there is no significant difference between the corrected data after the simulation and its original positioning data (not participating in the model), and the correction error is below 5 m. This shows that the problem of locating a submarine camera and its data can be solved using the proposed four-dimensional anomaly elimination model established based on the USBL positioning data, high precision terrain, bathymetry and GPS data, and the corresponding cubic polynomial least-squares correction model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At the inside corner between the South Mid-Atlantic Ridge (SMAR) and the Cardno fracture zone, the 14°S hydrothermal field, with its abundant silica-rich sulfides, was identified as a volcanic massif, which provided the first opportunity to study inside corner-related hydrothermal mineralization. S, Pb, and O isotopes were measured in hydrothermal sulfide samples from the two sites (volcanic top and slope sites) in the 14°S field. The homogeneous Pb isotope values (207Pb/204Pb = 15.466 − 15.472; 206Pb/204Pb = 18.242 − 18.252) and the δ34S values (top site, +6.3 to +6.85‰; slope site, +2.37 to +3.36‰) suggest that the source of metals and most of the sulfur is the upper crust, whereas some sulfur is sourced from downward-penetrating seawater, especially in the top site. The calculated oxygen isotope equilibration temperatures from quartz and seawater are between 94 and 144°C for the top site and between 179 and 196°C for the slope site. These isotopic proxies, together with geological background survey data, have an important implication: Discrepancies between the sites may result from variations in crust permeability, which also affect the mixing level between downward-penetrating seawater and upward hydrothermal end-member fluids and determine the various mineralization types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spatial scope of the Saint Helena hotspot influence on SMAR system is from SMAR 14.2°S to 20.8°S segments bounded by Cardno T.F. and Trinidade T.F. The sublithospheric flow channels between Saint Helena plume and the northern segments (e.g., segment 2) could be continuous, while those at the southern segments (e.g., segments 4–5) change to be more schlieren-like. Possible flow directions of the Saint Helena hotspot materials from Cardno seamount toward the SMAR system are inferred. The ends of the inferred flows directions are at the SMAR segments 2–5, where the basalts have stronger Saint Helena plume-related geochemical signals, and the ridge axes keep shallower axial depth and lower mantle Bouguer gravity anomaly relative to the other segments. Following the possible directions, the lateral footprint of the asthenospheric mantle influenced by the Saint Helena plume has grown to several hundreds of kilometers over the past 80 Ma. • New geochemical and Sr-Nd-Pb-Hf isotopic data for the SMAR basalts are presented. • Saint Helena hotspot is still affecting the SMAR system nowadays. • The spatial scope of Saint Helena influence on SMAR segments is between 14.2°S and 20.8°S. • Saint Helena plume-influenced SMAR segments are bounded by Cardno and Trinidade fracture zone. • Asthenospheric material flow paths from Saint Helena hotspot toward the SMAR axes are inferred. Ridge-hotspot interaction plays a significant role during the whole geological evolution history of Atlantic Ocean. Whether the ongoing spreading south Mid-Atlantic ridge (SMAR) is affected by those mantle plumes gradually migrating away from the ridge or not, need to be further explored. Here we investigate the chemical components of basalts from the SMAR 13.2°S–24.2°S segments, which contain the Saint Helena plume-like chemical traces that have enriched incompatible element ratios (e.g., K 2 O/TiO 2 , Nb/Zr, (La/Sm) N) and higher 87Sr/86Sr, 206Pb/204Pb and lower 143Nd/144Nd and 176Hf/177Hf relative to those plume-free SMAR MORBs. These, combining with geophysical data and off-axis seamounts data, show that the spatial scope of Saint Helena hotspot influence on SMAR system is bounded by the Cardno fracture zone (∼14.2°S) to the north and the Trinidade fracture zone (∼20.8°S) to the south. Furthermore, this study infers possible flow directions of the Saint Helena hotspot materials from Cardno seamount toward the SMAR system, and the ends of these flows directions are at the SMAR 14.2°S–20.8°S segments, where the basalts have stronger Saint Helena plume-related geochemical signals, and the ridge axes keep shallower axis depth and lower mantle Bouguer gravity anomaly relative to the other segments. Finally, we develop a sketch-like model to depict material flow styles from Saint Helena plume to the actively spreading SMAR regions along a sloping rheologically boundary layer at the lithospheric bottom. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Formation of clay-sized from hydrothermal fields along southern Mid-Atlantic Ridge. • Mineral compositions and REE signals to reveal deposition environment in Mid-Atlantic Ridge. • Unique geochemical characteristics of clay-sized sediments in hydrothermal-related Mid-Ocean Ridge. • Implications for hydrothermal depositional environment. Numerous hydrothermal activities were observed along the southern Mid-Atlantic Ridge (SMAR) in recent years. In this study, six clay-sized surface sediments collected from three hydrothermal fields (Caifan, Xunmei and Taiji) and one sample from Kaifeng seamount were analyzed for mineralogical and geochemical compositions. X-ray diffraction (XRD) results reveal that samples are mainly composed of fine-grained goethite, chlorite, and occasionally with jarosite and smectite. Interestingly, smectite not observed under XRD patterns are determined with the application of transmission electron microscope (TEM). Smectite is probably formed by interaction between Fe-oxyhydroxides (goethite) and detrital/hydrothermal silicates. Major and minor elements geochemical data indicate samples from Caifan and Xunmei are highly influenced by hydrothermal activities, and alteration of sulfides was prominent. However, it is not true for the sample from Kaifeng seamount and Taiji hydrothermal field, where are dominant by Mg-rich chlorite of volcanic rocks origin rather than aeolian. Rare earth element (REE) concentrations of both clay-sized and bulk sediment were compared to illustrate the REE characteristics and the degree of hydrothermal contribution. In the Taiji hydrothermal field and Kaifeng seamount, REE were mainly present in clay-sized fraction and chlorite may act as an efficient carrier of REE in these samples. On the other hand, in the Caifan and Xunmei hydrothermal fields, only goethite (or Fe-oxyhydroxides) plays an important role on carry of REE rather than smectite due to low abundance and poor crystallinity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anthocyanins contribute to coloration and antioxidation effects in different plant tissues. MYB transcription factors have been demonstrated to be a key regulator for anthocyanin synthesis in many plants. However, little information was available about the MYB genes in the halophyte species Eutrema salsugineum. Result: Here we report the identification of an important anthocyanin biosynthesis regulator EsMYB90 from Eutrema salsugineum, which is a halophyte tolerant to multiple abiotic stresses. Our phylogenetic and localization analyses supported that EsMYB90 is an R2R3 type of MYB transcription factor. Ectopic expression of EsMYB90 in tobacco and Arabidopsis enhanced pigmentation and anthocyanin accumulation in various organs. The transcriptome analysis revealed that 42 genes upregulated by EsMYB90 in 35S:EsMYB90 tobacco transgenic plants are required for anthocyanin biosynthesis. Moreover, our qRT-PCR results showed that EsMYB90 promoted expression of early (PAL, CHS, and CHI) and late (DFR, ANS, and UFGT) anthocyanin biosynthesis genes in stems, leaves, and flowers of 35S:EsMYB90 tobacco transgenic plants. Conclusions: Our results indicated that EsMYB90 is a MYB transcription factor, which regulates anthocyanin biosynthesis genes to control anthocyanin biosynthesis. Our work provides a new tool to enhance anthocyanin production in various plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Taiwan is particularly sensitive to changes in monsoonal precipitation and to typhoon-induced heavy precipitation events, however, rainfall variability in Taiwan on centennial and millennial time scales during the Holocene has not been well understood. This study describes mid-Holocene rainfall features of Taiwan based on pollen, total organic carbon (TOC), total nitrogen (TN), and C/N ratio records of core MD05-2908. The step-wise increase in sedimentation rate, fern spore percentage and concentration, TOC content, and C/N ratio suggests an increasing terrestrial material supply due to the intensified rainfall in Taiwan since 6800 cal. yr BP. This rainfall pattern shows an inverse pattern to the decreasing East Asian summer monsoon (EASM) strength represented by the multi-proxy records from North China. Variation of the East Asian summer circulation and associated moisture transport may account for the long-term rainfall changes in Taiwan. Superimposed on this trend, we interpreted three prominent rainfall changes, which focus on the periods of 6800–6600, 1090–880 and 490–190 cal. yr BP. These centennial time scale rainfall variations in our records are linked to the intensity of El-Niño Southern Oscillations. Highlights • Pollen evidence enabled to trace the sources of sediments in South Okinawa Trough. • The rainfall variation of Taiwan during the past 6800 years is reconstructed by multi-proxies. • The result leads an improved understanding of the interplay between East Asian Monsoon and ENSO since mid-Holocene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The REY-rich sediments in the CIOB consist of phillipsite-bearing pelagic clay. • The REY in these sediments were captured by bioapatite and micronodule from seawater. • Driven by weak early diagenesis, the REY released to porewater from the micronodules. • The REY in porewater were also captured by the bioapatite. Rare earth element and ytterbium (REY)-rich deep-sea sediments are recently discovered potential undersea rare earth element (REE) resources. Here, we present the results of the mineralogical and geochemical characterization of REY-rich sediments collected from the Central Indian Ocean Basin (CIOB). These data were used to provide a jigsaw puzzle for the investigation of REY transfer during early diagenesis and to discuss the formation mechanism of REY-rich sediments. The research results show that the REY-rich sediments distributed in the CIOB mainly consist of phillipsite-bearing pelagic clay and pelagic clay, and are characterized by enrichments in middle REEs (MREEs) and heavy REEs (HREEs), negative Ce anomalies and positive Y anomalies. The REY in these sediments are mainly captured dirtcely from overlying seawater by bioapatite and micronodules at the water-sediment interface. After burial, driven by the redox reaction between organic matter and an oxidizer (free O 2 and Mn and Fe oxides), the REY-rich sediments experienced weak early diagenesis, and the REY released from hydrogenetic micronodules were captured by the bioapatite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]