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In 1997, Statement of Financial Reporting Standards (SFAS) 131 introduced a substantial change in how segment information is reported in US-GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) financial statements. We seek to examine whether this change in financial reporting policy increases investors' ability to process information relevant to conglomerate firms (i.e., those operating in multiple industries) more quickly, and whether this increased efficiency in information processing varies cross-sectionally based on firm complexity and the direction of industry news. Our results indicate that SFAS 131 has increased the speed with which stock prices capture information about conglomerates, relative to focused firms, although we find that some frictions remain with regard to disclosing bad news. This study documents an example of how a change in disclosure policy can enhance pricing efficiency, and hence, it may be of interest to the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) in its ongoing initiative to consider potential changes to SFAS 131. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chiral thin films showing electronic and plasmonic circular dichroism (CD) are intensively explored for optoelectronic applications. The most studied chiral organic films are the composites exhibiting a helical geometry, which often causes entanglement of circular optical properties with unwanted linear optical effects (linearly polarized absorption or refraction). This entanglement limits tunability and often translates to a complex optical response. This paper describes chiral films based on dark conglomerate, sponge-like, liquid crystal films, which go beyond the usual helical type geometry, waiving the problem of linear contributions to chiroptical electronic and plasmonic properties. First, we show that purely organic films exhibit high electronic CD and circular birefringence, as studied in detail using Mueller matrix polarimetry. Analogous linear properties are two orders of magnitude lower, highlighting the benefits of using the bi-isotropic dark conglomerate liquid crystal for chiroptical purposes. Next, we show that the liquid crystal can act as a template to guide the assembly of chemically compatible gold nanoparticles into 3D spiral-like assemblies. The Mueller matrix polarimetry measurements confirm that these composites exhibit both electronic and plasmonic circular dichroisms, while nanoparticle presence is not compromising the beneficial optical properties of the matrix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A lens of previously unknown polymictic conglomerates has been found in the axial part of the Kostomuksha greenstone belt (KGB) of the Karelian Craton. Their clastic portion consists of poorly graded, largely angular pebbles. In composition, they are comparable with rocks of the country greenstone complex: (1) amphibolites similar to the Mesoarchean KGB gabbroids and basalts, (2) magnetite–amphibole quartzites similar to the Mesoarchean magnetite–biotite–amphibole quartzites associated with banded iron formations, and (3) Neoarchean (2.75 Ga) quartz metagraywackes. The conglomerates are intensely deformed (γ >10) under conditions of a sinistral shear. The conglomerates were deposited about 2.71 Ga ago, as indicated by analysis of zircons from the matrix. Thus, a new Neoarchean stratotectonic association, the youngest in the greenstone complex, was found in KGB. It probably formed in a pull-apart basin at the final stage of the formation of the KGB from an important role of shear movements. Volcanic and sedimentary associations similar in age are known in the Khedozero–Bolshozero, Kuhmo, and Takanen greenstone belts of the Karelian Craton. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied the Jafnayn Formation's lithostratigraphy, microfacies, depositional environment, and uncertain presence of the Paleocene/Eocene boundary and present the first detailed analysis of a 127-m-thick section using the standard microfacies (SMF)/facies zone (FZ) system. The formation is dominated by foraminiferal grainstones and packstones of SMF 18-FOR, followed by peloidal grainstones and packstones of SMF 16. Coral-red algae floatstones of SMF 8 occur sporadically. SMF 18-DASY appears only once. SMF 16 and 18-FOR suggest a restricted lagoon, whereas SMF 8 and 18-DASY reflect episodic open marine lagoonal conditions. The section consists of four lithostratigraphic units. Considerable detrital quartz near the base (Unit 1: 22%; sand, sandstone, conglomerate) and top (Unit 4: 40%; sand) coincides with a restricted lagoon affected by near-shore processes (base) and near-shore conditions (top). Open marine conditions show an elevated bioclast diversity in units 3 and 4. Unit 2 displays very thickly-bedded limestones of the restricted lagoon. The lagoon barriers likely consist of foraminifera and other allochems that were reworked from the lagoon to form shoals. Coral remains in units 3 and 4 suggest that coral build-ups in the upper part of the formation protected the lagoon as well. The early Eocene age of several basal Alveolina species in the lowermost 9 m of the studied section indicates that the section is incomplete, with the late Paleocene part and meters-thick basal yellow marl missing. The Paleocene/Eocene boundary is unexposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Badaowan Formation in the Mahu Sag of the Junggar Basin has revealed a low oil saturation reservoir with promising exploration prospects. To understand the pore structure characteristics and their impact on oil content, high-pressure mercury injection and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experiments were used to identify and classify pore structures. In previous studies, the disparity in NMR transverse relaxation time(T2) between centrifuged and saturated samples has frequently been utilized to establish a correlation with the capillary pressure curve. This study contends that the contrast in T2 values between dried and saturated samples, as well as the capillary pressure curve, both reflect the attributes of interconnected pores and exhibit a strong correlation. Consequently, it is more justifiable to devise a conversion formula between T2 and pore radius based on this premise. The study demonstrates that sandstone and conglomerate reservoirs in the Mahu Sag exhibit complex pore structures, with sandstone having higher porosity but poorer permeability compared to conglomerate. Each lithological reservoir exhibits two typical pore structure types, with Type 1 being superior to Type 2. Furthermore, our findings indicate that better pore structure correlates with higher oil content within a single lithological reservoir; additionally, conglomerate reservoirs show higher oil grade compared to sandstone due to permeability's greater impact on oil content in this area. This research provides valuable insights for identifying high-quality reservoirs within the Badaowan Formation in Mahu Sag. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied morphofunctional features of human platelets exposed in vitro to low-pulse laser radiation (LPLR) with different wavelengths. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) was irradiated at wavelengths of 635, 488, and 355 nm. LPLR with λ=635 nm and 1 W power after 10 min caused degranulation of many platelets, formation of small platelet conglomerates, and accelerated platelet adhesion on glass. LPLR with λ=635 nm and 2 mW and LPLR with λ=488 nm did not cause significant changes in the morphofunctional platelet status. LPLR with λ=355 nm induced massive platelets' deformation, sharp decrease in their morphofunctional status without activation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heteroatom‐embedded helical nanographenes (NGs) constitute an important and appealing class of intrinsically chiral materials. In this work, a series of B,N‐embedded helical NGs (BN‐HNGs) bearing azepines was synthesized via stepwise regioselective cyclodehydrogenation. First, the phenyl‐ or nitrogen‐bridged dimers were efficiently clipped into highly congested model compounds 1 and 2. Later, the controllable Scholl reactions of the tetraphenyl‐tethered precursor generated 1, 7 or 8 new C−C bonds, thereby establishing a robust method for the preparation of nonalternant BN‐HNGs with up to 31 fused rings. The helical bilayer nature was unambiguously verified by X‐ray diffraction analysis. The helical chirality was transferred to the stereogenic boron centers upon fluoride coordination, with a concave‐concave structure to comply with the bilayer skeleton. Notably, the largest nonalternant BN‐HNG (6) spontaneously resolved into a homochiral 41 helix structure as a molecular spiral staircase during crystallization via conglomerate formation at the single‐crystal scale. The large twisted C2‐symmetric π‐surface and the dynamic chiral skeleton induced by curved azepines might have synergistic effects on self‐recognition of enantiomers of 6 to achieve the intriguing spontaneous resolution behavior. The chiroptical properties of the enantiomer of 6 were further investigated, revealing that 6 had a strong chiroptical response in the visible range (400–700 nm). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In March, 2019, a trackway of seven footprints was found at a riverbank outcrop of Maniototo Conglomerate Formation in the Kyeburn River, Central Otago, South Island, New Zealand. In this study, we describe this first known occurrence of moa (Dinornithiformes) footprints to be found and recovered in Te Waipounamu/South Island. Footprints of the trackway were ∼46 mm deep, 272–300 mm wide and 260–294 mm in length. An associated separate footprint was 448 mm wide and 285 mm long. Cosmogenic nuclide dating of adjacent overlying beds from the same formation establishes a mean minimum age of burial age for the tracks of 3.57 Ma (+1.62/−1.18 Ma) with a mode of 2.9 Ma, which we interpret to be Late Pliocene, with a conservative age range of Pliocene to Early Pleistocene. The trackway maker is identified as a moa from the Emeidae family, probably from the genus Pachyornis, with a mean mass of 84.61 kg that was travelling at a speed of 2.61 kmh−1. The single adjacent footprint was made by an individual from the family Dinornithidae, most likely from the genus Dinornis with an estimated mass of 158 kg. These moa footprints represent the second earliest fossil record of moa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Engineering (17264073) is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Abstract—The possibility of a conglomeration of elemental powders in the mechanical synthesis of a high-entropy 30Fe–30Cr–20Ni–10Mo–10W alloy has been determined. The distribution of particles of elemental powders in conglomerates formed during mechanical alloying has been studied. The influence of mechanical alloying modes on the content of conglomerates of a fraction of more than 32 μm in the powder charge is determined. The phase composition of the conglomerates after hydrogen heat treatment has been studied. The resulting conglomerates can be used in the process of additive manufacturing of parts of oil and gas equipment for operation in conditions of high temperatures and corrosive effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conglomerates play an important role in the functioning of capital markets. Therefore, assessing their response to external shocks is a significant risk management challenge not only for conglomerate executives but also for investors and regulators alike. In this context, a conglomerate refers to a group of companies typically operating across different industries and interconnected through both equity and debt relationships. Essentially, a conglomerate functions as a financial network whose nodes are linked by two layers of reciprocal connections. This paper introduces an algorithm to evaluate a conglomerate's response to external shocks. Additionally, it proposes a protocol based on five key metrics that collectively summarize the conglomerate's overall resilience. These metrics offer two major advantages: they facilitate comparisons between the strengths of different conglomerates and help assess the effectiveness of various strategies, such as internal capital reallocations, aimed at enhancing a conglomerate's resilience. The algorithm's usefulness, including its ability to detect cascades or "second-wave" defaults, is demonstrated through two illustrative examples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cobalt-rich ferromanganese crusts (CRC) are potential resources for Co, Ni, Pt, and other strategic metals. The CRC thickness varies from a few mm to more than 100 mm at various distance scales over the rock outcrops in the seamounts. However, their variation patterns and controlling factors are not well understood. We conducted a comprehensive small-scale survey, including shipboard acoustic measurements, seafloor observations, and rock drilling over the Xufu Guyot of the Marcus-Wake seamounts in the Northwestern Pacific to characterize the thickness variations on a scale of several kilometers with the topography and geological evolution of the guyot. Rock drilling revealed that thicker CRC (>100 mm) tend to occur on the margins and flat areas on the guyot, while thinner CRC are associated with carbonate reef mounds over the volcanic pinnacles and seamount slopes. The microstratigraphic description indicated that the CRC thickness is strongly related to the geological evolution of the guyot, mainly the stability of the substrate rocks and coverage with calcareous pelagic sedimentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We here highlight the importance of stoichiometry for simultaneous cocrystal resolution. Focusing on combining the racemates of binol and proline, we show that a 1 : 2 ratio leads to formation of a full racemic compound, whereas a 2 : 1 ratio, leads to conglomerate formation, with simultaneous resolution of both binol and proline. Playing on stoichiometry, one achieves a reversible switch between the racemic compound and conglomerate. This is the first investigation of such behavior combining two racemates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In his diaries and letters, Kafka recorded around 60 dreams, and in his literary texts the structural patterns of dreams are once again subjected the laws of fiction. In Kafka's case, insomnia is not the result of excessive creative work but rather an unavoidable condition of writing. Kafka's dreams and »half-sleep fantasies« are characterized by barrenness, an almost semiotic nakedness. The metaphors of condensation and the metonymies of displacement must be achieved by the reader. Affect and cognition seem decoupled. The aporetic »That's how it is« in conjunction with a traumatic (?) »That's how it was« is superimposed in the dream's temporal experience to form a conglomerate whose imaginary layers are transferred into the contours of poetry (and thus also of symbolization). Kafka's texts use the structural patterns of dreams and render the dream textures totally visible. The secret and intimate are exposed to the public eye. Childhood, sexuality and violence overlap in the phantasm of power and powerlessness, desire and torture. In reviving infantile self- and object-images, Kafka's texts bring forth libidinal currents as well as melancholic torpor in the same way. The question is how to determine the position of Kafka's dream texture between Freud's dream conception of wish fulfillment and those »horror dreams« whose possible detours via semiotic processes are blocked. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biostratigraphic analysis of the Paleozoic sedimentary successions in Mexico is crucial for understanding their age, depositional setting, and paleogeographic implications. This study examined conodonts and microfacies of calcareous strata within the Del Monte Formation of the Tamatán Group in northeastern Mexico. Field observations have led to the identification of three units within the Del Monte Formation: Unit 1, characterized by calcareous sandstone, bioclastic limestone, shale, occasional conglomerate, and dolomitized beds; Unit 2, consisting of conglomerate and/or breccia associated with debris flows; and Unit 3 including turbiditic sandstone and shale. Conodonts were only recognized in Unit 1, with such genera as Idiognathoides, Neognathodus, Idiognathodus and less frequently, Streptognathodus, Adetognathus, and Diplognathodus. The faunal associations include Idiognathoides cf. Id. corrugatus Harris & Hollingsworth, 1933, Idiognathoides sulcatus sulcatus Higgins & Bouckaert, 1968, Idiognathoides convexus (Ellison & Graves, 1941), Idiognathoides asiaticus Nigmadganov & Nemyrovskaya, 1992, Neognathodus cf. N. atokaensis Grayson, 1984, Neognathodus aff. bothrops Merrill, 1972, Neognathodus nataliae Alekseev & Gerelzezeg, 2001 (in Alekseev & Goreva 2001), Streptognathodus parvus Dunn, 1966, Idiognathodus incurvus Dunn, 1966, and Idiognathodus aff. delicatus Gunnell, 1931, suggesting Morrowan and Atokan (Pennsylvanian) ages for the dolomitic limestone and grainstone beds. Five types of microfacies (MF) and several marine facies zone (FZ) have been detected: MF1-bioclastic grainstone and MF2-wackestone deposited at the platform margin (FZ 6 and FZ 7), MF3-dolomitized wackestone representing an inner restricted platform (FZ 8), MF4-mudstone from a deeper water zone (FZ 4), and MF5-siliciclastic beds with bioclasts indicating a high-energy barrier associated with a platform margin (FZ 6). The findings confirm a shallow to deep platform and imply a connection among Mexican peri-Gondwanan basins, including the Tamatán Basin, indicating similarities in sedimentary facies and/or depositional environments linked to the Rheic Ocean during the Early to Middle Pennsylvanian. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Estudios Gerenciales is the property of Universidad ICESI and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Uranium Geology is the property of Uranium Geology Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Capitanian (late Guadalupian, Middle Permian) and Changhsingian (late Lopingian, Late Permian) radiolarians were obtained from chert blocks within the conglomerates of the Kamiaso Complex of the Mino Belt in Awano, Gifu Prefecture, central Japan. The former contains 15 species assigned to 10 genera with 4 undetermined species, and the latter contains 5 species assigned to 11 genera with 9 undetermined species. The chert blocks were presumably derived from an accretionary complex prior to accretion on the oceanic plate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, CO2 fracturing experiments were carried out in a conglomerate to analyze the fracture morphology, and fracture surface characteristics, and discuss the fracture self-support mechanism. Results indicate that compared to supercritical CO2 (SC-CO2) fracturing, SC-CO2 shock fracturing can break through the limitations of in situ stress to develop more complex fractures. The SC-CO2 shock fracturing induced rougher fracture surfaces. As a direct result, rougher fractures with larger apertures have greater permeability and conductivity, approximately three times that of SC-CO2 fracturing. This is because, under the influence of impact, shear misalignment allows rough fracture surfaces to self-support and exfoliated particles to act as proppant, allowing SC-CO2 fracturing to form self-supported fractures with greater aperture and permeability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conglomerate reservoirs are important oil and gas resources that require hydraulic fracturing for stimulation. However, the heterogeneity of conglomerate rocks causes fractures to propagate irregularly, complicating the fracturing design. To provide insight into the complex fracture behavior in conglomerate rocks, a three-dimensional (3D) hydromechanical numerical model based on the discrete element method (DEM) was proposed in this study. Besides, a novel approach combining the grain-based DEM with Voronoi tessellation was adopted to depict the geometrical characteristics of conglomerate rocks. Considering the rock matrix-interface-gravel structure, the effects of various influencing factors including the strength and permeability, in situ stress difference, fluid properties and injection scheme on the fracture propagation and induced microseismic events were investigated. Two fracture behaviors, penetration and deflection, were summarized. Finally, the mechanisms of different fracture behaviors were discussed, revealing the joint effects of various factors on the fracture behavior. To predict the fracture behavior in conglomerate rocks, an explainable machine learning framework comprising the extreme gradient boosting and the shapley additive explanations was adopted, which attained high accuracy on the testing set. It can also provide comprehensive explanations for the predicted results, offering support for practical decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the relationship between default probability and value when there is a selection bias due to missing controls for firm heterogeneous likelihood to survive in the sample. Our model delivers the following implications for the conglomerate case: (a) the sample conglomerate value increases in their default probability, (b) the sample conglomerate discount falls together with their excess default probability with respect to focused companies, (c) both effects disappear when the analyst controls for survival probability. The data support the presence of a selection bias distorting downwards the relative value of sample firms with higher survival probability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates lithofacies and petrofacies and reconstructs the depositional environment of the Paleocene siliciclastics of the Kerman Formation located in NE Central Iran, which is composed significantly of polymictic conglomerate bodies intercalated with some minor sandstone beds. Through detailed sedimentological studies (e.g., dominant grain size, degree of clast rounding and sorting, texture, and stratification) five lithofacies were identified: clast-supported massive conglomerate (Gcm), matrix-supported massive conglomerate (Gmm), horizontally stratified conglomerate (Gh), horizontally bedded sandstone (Sh), and massive sandstone (Sm). Petrographic analysis revealed three petrofacies composed of petromict conglomerate, volcanic arenite, and feldspathic litharenite; gravels were chiefly made up of basalt and andesite, as well as fewer limestone and agglomerated tuff. The lithofacies associations are related to sedimentary gravity flow (SG) and channel-fill sandstone bodies (CH) deposited in alluvial fan and braided fluvial systems. This research provides important insights into the sedimentary environments of the Kerman Formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reservoir type of the MH oil field in the Junggar Basin is a typical low-permeability conglomerate reservoir. The MH oilfield was developed by water injection in the early stage. Nowadays, the reservoir damage is serious, and water injection is difficult. There is an urgent need to carry out conversion injection flooding research to improve oil recovery. The use of CO2 oil-flooding technology can effectively supplement formation energy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and improve economic benefits. In order to clarify the feasibility of CO2 flooding to improve oil recovery in conglomerate reservoirs with low permeability, strong water sensitivity, and severe heterogeneity, this paper researched the impact of CO2 miscibility on production characteristics and mechanisms through multi-scale experiments. The aim was to determine the feasibility of using CO2 flooding to enhance oil recovery. This study initially elucidated the oil displacement characteristics of varying degrees of miscibility in different dimensions using slim tube experiments and long core experiments. Subsequently, mechanistic research was conducted, focusing on the produced oil components, changes in interfacial tension, and conditions for pore mobilization. The results indicate that the minimum miscibility pressure (MMP) of the block is 24 MPa. Under the slim tube scale, the increase in the degree of miscibility can effectively delay the gas breakthrough time; under the core scale, once the pressure reaches the near mixing phase, the drive state can transition from a non-mixed "closed-seal" to a "mixed-phase" state. Compared to the immiscible phase, the near-miscible and completely miscible phase can improve the final recovery efficiency by 9.27% and 18.72%. The component differences in the displacement products are mainly concentrated in the high-yield stage and gas breakthrough stage. During the high-yield stage, an increase in miscibility leads to a higher proportion of heavy components in the produced material. Conversely, in the gas breakthrough stage, extraction increases as the level of mixing increases, demonstrating the distinct extracting characteristics of different degrees of mixed phases. The core experiences significant variations in oil saturation mostly during the pre-gas stage. CO2 miscible flooding can effectively utilize crude oil in tiny and medium-sized pores during the middle stage of flooding, hence reducing the minimum threshold for pore utilization to 0.3 μm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to shed light on the elemental and mineralogical mechanisms controlling the storage and flow performances of tight conglomerates. This is achieved through the application of Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM), Energy Dispersive Spectrometer (EDS), TESCAN Integrated Mineral Analyzer (TIMA), and geophysical logging data. The findings suggest that augmenting the Mg and CaO content in silicates can markedly enhance the storage capacity of tight conglomerates within the Upper Wuerhe Formation. Chlorite exerts a positive influence on the evolution of reservoir porosity, whereas an escalation in Na content does not foster the development of reservoirs with superior physical attributes. A reduction in the chemical index of alteration (CIA) facilitates the creation of a more expansive pore space, while an elevation in the index of component variation (ICV) augments porosity and diminishes mud content, albeit it may also curtail oil content. It is pertinent to note that an increase in ICV is not invariably advantageous. The emergence of orthoclase results in a decrease in porosity and an enhancement in permeability, whereas the progression of kaolinite adversely affects reservoir porosity. The conclusion may yield significant insights for hydrocarbon exploration in these regions, as well as in reservoirs exhibiting analogous lithologies. • The porosity of the conglomerate increases with Mg and the chlorite content. • Element and mineral properties determine the physical properties. • Geophysical and geochemical data can be integrated to study pores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spatial organization within ancient settlements offers valuable insights into the evolution of social complexity. This paper examines spatially and chronologically contextualized architectural structures and artifacts uncovered at the Late Bronze Age Shirenzigou site to explore the relationship between the use of space and underlying social dynamics in the Eastern Tianshan Mountains of Xinjiang (China). Central to our findings is a distinctive centripetal compound structure, consisting of a larger non-domestic building surrounded by smaller dwellings. This arrangement, along with the variety and distribution of the artifacts, reveals a complex interplay between private and communal spaces at the site, reflecting a growing complexity within the social fabric of the community. The formation of conglomerates of houses around a central communal structure which occurs across the Tianshan Mountains appears to be a strategic adaptation in response to environmental challenges and socio-political transformations across this region at the end of the second millennium BCE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reservoir characterization is an important component of hydrocarbon exploration and production, which requires the integration of different disciplines for accurate subsurface modeling. This comprehensive research paper delves into the complex interplay of rock materials, rock formation techniques, and geological modeling techniques for improving reservoir quality. The research plays an important role dominated by petrophysical factors such as porosity, shale volume, water content, and permeability—as important indicators of reservoir properties, fluid behavior, and hydrocarbon potential. It examines various rock cataloging techniques, focusing on rock aggregation techniques and self-organizing maps (SOMs) to identify specific and anomalous rock faces. Furthermore, the paper explores the adoption of advanced methods, including hydraulic flow units (HFU), providing a fine-grained understanding of reservoir heterogeneity and contributing to the prediction of flow dynamics. The final section includes structural geological models, petrophysical data collected, rock type classification, and spatial data to better represent the reservoir bottom structure. It provides a valuable resource for researchers, geologists, and engineers seeking to characterize reservoirs and make optimal decisions on hydrocarbon exploration and production. It is an important component of hydrocarbon exploration and production, which requires the integration of different disciplines for accurate subsurface modeling.

Many styles of gold mineralisation are challenging to sample because of the presence of coarse gold and a high spatial heterogeneity. The coarse gold-bearing conglomerates of the Beatons Creek deposit provide some challenges related to the presence of gold particles up to 8 mm and gold particle clusters (up to 500 mm3) at low in situ grades (<2 g/t Au). Novo has attempted to address these issues over the last six years of exploration, resource development and mining. The Beatons Creek open pit operation was the first Pilbara conglomerate-hosted gold deposit to go into production. Between January 2021 and September 2022, it produced 2.5 Mt at 1.2 g/t Au for 87,300 oz Au recovered. Gold is present within a matrix of multiple, narrow-stacked oxide and fresh (sulphide) conglomeritic reef horizons, which are interbedded with unmineralised conglomerate, sandstones and grits. It is strongly associated with detrital pyrite and authigenic nodules. Several sampling techniques have been applied across the project, including diamond core and RC drilling, trench channel sampling and bulk sampling. Assay methods applied include fire assay, screen fire assay, LeachWELL™ and more recently PhotonAssay™. The dominant sampling protocol applied for resource development and grade control utilised 0.5 m length RC samples; a 50% rig split (c. 8.5 kg) and laboratory crushing to 3 mm, followed by a 2.5 kg split and total assay via PhotonAssay™. For part of the 2022 RC programme, the detectORE™ technique was used to screen primary RC samples and reduce the feed to the laboratory. Novo operated a sampling and assay programme that aimed to reduce the impact of coarse gold on sample and assay preparation biases and to improve estimation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Changes in the standard free energies of dissolution and melting are calculated for the compounds of a series of chiral aryl glycerol ethers with a substituent in the aromatic ring Alk–C6H4–OCH2CH(OH)CH2(OH) (Alk = ortho-Me (1) and meta-Me (2), ortho-Et (3), ortho-n-Pr (4), and ortho-iso-Pr (5)) based on their solubility in cyclohexane and thermochemical melting parameters. These parameters are shown to be successfully used to compare energy characteristics of the crystal structures. This allows us to quantify chiral discrimination effects in the crystals of compounds 1–5 and analyze the trends of its change when the molecular structure is systematically varied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sandy conglomerate reservoir in layer Es3 of the Liaohe Eastern Depression has good potential for oil reservoir exploration and has been identified as a key area for future exploration. The low porosity and permeability, complex lithology, and strong heterogeneity of the target layer make it difficult to predict favorable reservoirs. The objective of this study is to analyze and process conventional logging data to extract feature parameters that affect lithology by establishing a decision tree lithology classifier. Principal component analysis is used to reduce data dimensionality, and the elbow method is applied to the clustering algorithm to establish the optimal number of clusters for the automatic classification of reservoir types. Further, support vector machines are used for lithology classification based on features with higher classification capabilities. The results show that the support vector machine lithology recognition method based on feature selection achieved an accuracy of 91.8%. The processing of actual well data has verified the feasibility of the method. Based on the combination of core experiments and oil testing results, the characteristics of three types of reservoirs were presented, and potential reservoir zones were proposed for drilling wells. The comprehensive analysis and the practical application of the developed method reveal that the class I reservoir has high hydrocarbon production and could be the most favorable reservoir in the Es3 sandy conglomerate. The processing data of lithology identification and reservoir classification evaluation are consistent with core data and hydrocarbon production data, verifying the effectiveness and practicability of the method proposed in this paper. The results of this study will serve as a reference for low porosity and permeability sandy conglomerate reservoir evaluation based on machine learning in the target area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • We identified the three events (Ⅰ, Ⅱ, and Ⅲ) of the Indosinian Orogeny. • The Indosinian I Event was caused by collision of the South China/Indochina blocks. • The Indosinian II Event was triggered by closure of the Paleo-Tethys. • The Indosinian III Event was associated with post-collision magmatism. Middle Triassic to Early Jurassic conglomerates and associated sedimentary rocks that record the Indosinian Orogeny are exposed in the western Indochina Block, central Thailand. To elucidate the tectonic and sedimentary history of the Indosinian Orogeny, we studied the conglomerates and analyzed detrital zircon U–Pb ages of samples from the conglomerates and associated sedimentary rocks. On the basis of provenance analysis and estimation of depositional ages, the three recognized events (I, II, and III) of the Indosinian Orogeny are identified. The Indosinian I Event is represented by Type-1 limestone conglomerates, which were derived from collapse of the Permian carbonate platform. This event took place during the Norian (middle Late Triassic) and was triggered by collision between the Indochina and South China blocks. The Indosinian II Event is represented by Type-2 conglomerates, which are composed of various types of clasts, as well as basaltic sandstones. These sedimentary rocks were derived from the uplift and collapse of the Sukhothai Arc, the Nan Back-arc Basin, the Phetchabun Volcanic Belt, and basement rocks of the Indochina Block. Event Ⅱ occurred as a result of the closure of the Paleo-Tethys and the commencement of collision between the Sibumasu Block, the Sukhothai Arc, and the Indochina Block during the Rhaetian (latest Triassic). The Indosinian III Event is represented by Type-3 conglomerates, which comprise volcaniclastic rocks and volcanic breccias composed of andesite and dacite. Event Ⅲ occurred after the Toarcian (late Early Jurassic), associated with post-collision magmatism that occurred between the Sibumasu and Indochina blocks. Our study clarifies the timing and nature of Indosinian Orogeny I, II, and III events in the western Indochina Block and reveals that the Indosinian Orogeny involved Paleo-Tethyan subduction and micro-continental collision tectonics and associated processes during the Middle Triassic to Early Jurassic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alluvial glutenite reservoirs have obviously stronger heterogeneous and more complex control factors than sandstone reservoirs. Taking the Binxian Uplift area in the Boahi Bay Basin as an example, the aim of this study is to clarify the characteristics and control factors of the alluvial glutenite reservoir quality and the influence of reservoir properties on hydrocarbon accumulation. Pore types in the study area mainly include residual intergranular pores, intergranular dissolved pores, intragranular dissolved pores, and mold pores. The residual intergranular pores and intergranular dissolved pores are the main pore types. Most samples have porosity greater than 15% and permeability is mainly concentrated between 50 mD and 500 mD. It is shown that lithology type, microfacies, and diagenesis have significant impact on the reservoir quality. The reservoir qualities of very fine sandstone and fine sandstone are better than those of conglomerate and gravel-bearing sandstone. Instead of grain size, sorting affects the alluvial glutenite reservoir quality significantly. Oil-bearing samples commonly have sorting coefficient less than 2 while non-oil-bearing samples have sorting coefficient larger than 2. There are significant differences in reservoir physical properties of different sedimentary microfacies. The stream flow in mid-alluvial fan (SFMA) and braided channels outside alluvial fans (BCOA) have relatively weaker compaction and better reservoir quality than the overflow sand body (OFSB) and debris-flow in proximal alluvial fan (DFPA). Calcite cementation, the main cement in the study area, commonly developed at the base of SFMA and BCOA and near the sandstone-mudrock contacts. The source of calcium carbonate for calcite cement mainly came from around mudstone. High calcite cement content commonly results in low porosity and permeability. Individual glutenite thickness is also an important influencing factor on reservoir quality. Reservoirs with large thickness (>4 m) have high porosity and permeability. Dissolution occurred in the reservoir, forming secondary dissolution pores and improving reservoir quality. The dissolution fluid for formation of secondary pores is mainly meteoric waters instead of organic acid. The reservoir property has an important influence on hydrocarbon accumulation. The lower limit of physical properties of an effective reservoir is a porosity of 27% and permeability of 225 mD. The findings of this study can be utilized to predict the reservoir quality of alluvial glutenite reservoirs effectively in the Bohai Bay Basin and other similar basins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chloro-P,N-{diphenylphosphanyl-[(5-phenyl-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-ylamino)phenyl-me- thyl]}(p-cymene)ruthenium(II) hexafluorophosphate complex (4) was obtained in two steps from diphenylphosphanyl-[(5-phenyl-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-ylamino)phenyl-methyl] borane (2). In the first step, the oxadiazole ring coordinated with the ruthenium atom, resulting in the formation of the dichloro-N-{diphenylphosphanyl-[(5-phenyl-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-ylamino)phenyl-methyl]borane}(p-cymene) ruthenium(II) complex (3). During the crystallization of the P,N-chelate ruthenium complex, the formation of conglomerate crystals was revealed by X-ray structure analysis. Only two stereoisomers were obtained with (S)-Ru and (R)-C configurations in the first complex and with (R)-Ru and (S)-C configurations in the second. This deracemization during crystallization is due to the formation of a hydrogen bond between the P,N-ligand and the chlorine atom (CH•••Cl). This supramolecular interaction allows the transfer of the ligand chirality to the metal center and decrees the stereochemistry of the ruthenium atom. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tight conglomerate rocks consist of gravels and rock matrices. The existence of these stiff gravels leads to heterogeneity in conglomerates and makes it difficult to characterize rock mechanical properties, which then affects drilling and hydraulic fracturing operations in tight conglomerate hydrocarbon-bearing reservoirs. This case study introduces a series of experimental and numerical analyses for the better understanding of rock deformation and elastic wave propagation patterns in a tight conglomerate reservoir in Junggar Basin, China. Tri-axial compression tests, acoustic test, and finite element modeling of rock deformation and elastic wave propagation in conglomerate rocks are presented. Experimentally tested samples exhibit good brittleness and shearing failure patterns, while well correlated static-dynamic elastic moduli and P-S wave velocities are captured. Numerical results show that the existence of stiff gravels leads to strong direction-dependent stress and strain anisotropies. Stress concentrations are also induced by gravels radially and axially. In the elastic wave domain, stiff gravels facilitate the propagation of elastic waves. The gravel close to the wave source also induces stronger compressive/tensile states in the wave domain, indicating that the existence of gravels in conglomerates can alter waveforms. This integrated approach improves the quantitative understanding of stress, strain, and elastic wave responses in heterogeneous tight conglomerates. This case study also serves as a reference for the brittleness evaluation and geomechanical evaluation in the study area. The contribution of this work is primarily about the integrated experimental study, solid deformation modeling, and elastic wave modeling of tight conglomerate rocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims at identifying the source area(s) of two populations of exotic pebbles/cobbles present as driftwood dropstones in the upper Turonian to Coniacian pelagic layers of the Scaglia Rossa, as well as gravity flow deposits in the Santonian Sirone Conglomerate of the Lombardian Flysch. The clast assemblage indicates that the main source(s) were the structurally highest Austroalpine units of the Eo-Alpine orogenic edifice of the Eastern Alps and the Transdanubian Range; the erosion of such units produced Gosau-type gravels that, after local elaboration in highenergy settings, were resedimented into the Southalpine basins. Despite the affinities shown by the clast composition with the lithofacies of the Lombardian stratigraphic succession, origin from a central-Southalpine early orogenic retrobelt edifice can be reasonably excluded, since the onset of uplift and denudation of the Southern Alps occurred in the Late Oligocene. In Santonian times, a complementary source fed the Sirone Conglomerate and likely contributed the Kainach Gosau basin with clasts of Southalpine rocks. This source is inferred to have coincided with an emerging belt located in the eastern Southalpine domain, produced by transpression along the proto-Periadriatic Lineament. Ophiolitic detritus may have reached the Central Alpine and Southalpine areas during the Early Cretaceous; in contrast, the exhumation and uplift of the Koralpe-Wölz high-pressure belt and of its uppermost Austroalpine nappe cover at 89-84 Ma, likely separated the Southalpine retrobelt basins from 'northern' sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The multicoloured 'Košna' conglomerates are investigated in the area of the Košna Voda spring, in the Brušane area of Velebit Mt., Croatia. The studied conglomerates consist of red-coloured matrix and clasts of various lithologies (sandstones, limestones, chert and quartz pebbles) and sizes, suggesting provenance from different areas. Average clast size and their percentage was determined by the Udden-Wentworth classification with estimation of the matrix content. Clasts and matrix lithological and mineralogical characteristics were determined using petrographic, ore microscopy, and X-ray diffraction analysis. Sandstone clasts in the studied conglomerates are classified as lithic arenites, subarkoses and arkoses. Limestone clasts are mostly wackestones to packstones with foraminifera, ostracods, echinoid and bryozoan fragments that derive from late Carboniferous/early Permian shallow-marine limestones. Calcispheres and incipient growth forms of Microcodium are also present, suggesting different sediment sources and resedimentation processes. Fragments of fusulinid foraminifera were identified in the matrix of the 'Košna' conglomerates. Based on the analyses performed, and field observations, the 'Košna' conglomerates are described as early Permian (Cisuralian) polymictic clast-supported to matrix-supported conglomerates and breccia-conglomerates that share structural and textural similarities with conglomerates from other areas in the Dinarides, as well as in the Eastern and Southern Alps. The 'Košna' conglomerates are younger than the Sakmarian and are comparable with the Trogkofel limestones of the Carnic Alps and the Karavanke Mts. in Slovenia. We suggest that the studied deposits originated from the uplifted Variscan Mountains during the Variscan and Saalian orogenic movements, and were finally deposited from tractive flows and occasional debris flows in a shallow marine environment of the Palaeo-Tethys, possibly in fan deltas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the Late Carboniferous to Early Permian, a rift was formed by post‐collisional extension after ocean closure or an island arc‐related basin formed by Paleo‐Asian Ocean (PAO) subduction in the Xi Ujimqin area. Nevertheless, the closure time of the PAO is still under debate. Thus, to identify the origin of the PAO, the geochemistry and U‐Pb age of zircons were analyzed for the extra‐large deep marine, polymict clastic boulders and sandstones in the Shoushangou Formation within the basin. The analyses revealed magmatic activity and tectonic evolution. The conglomerates include megaclasts of granite (298.8 ± 9.1 Ma) and granodiorite porphyry (297.1 ± 3.1 Ma), which were deposited by muddy debris flow. Results of this study demonstrated that the boulders of granitoids have the geochemistry of typical I‐type granite, characterized by low Zr + Nb + Ce + Y and low Ga/Al values. The granitoid boulders were formed in island arc setting, indicating the presence of arc magmatism in the area that is composed of the Late Carboniferous to Early Permian subduction‐related granitoid in southern Xi Ujimqin. Multiple diagrams for determining sedimentary provenance using major and trace elements indicate that Shoushangou sediments originated from continental island arc‐related felsic rocks. Detrital zircon U‐Pb age cluster of 330‐280 Ma was obtained, indicating input from granite, ophiolite, Xilin Gol complex, and Carboniferous sources to the south. The basin was geographically developed behind the arc during the Early Permian period because the outcropped intrusive rocks in the Late Carboniferous to Early Permian form a volcanic arc. The comprehensive analyses of source areas suggest that Shoushangou sediments developed in a backarc basin in response to the northward subduction of the PAO. The backarc basin and intrusive rocks, in addition to previously published Late Carboniferous to Early Permian magmatic rocks of arc unit in Xilin Gol, confirm the presence of an Early Permian trench‐arc‐basin system in the region, represented by the Baolidao arc and Xi Ujimqin backarc basin. This study highlights the importance and potential of combined geochemical and geochronological studies of conglomerates and sandstone for reconstructing the geodynamic setting of a basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to make clear the waterflood development potential of the thin conglomerate reservoir named Cardium A in Cardium Formation of Western Canada Basin, the reservoir type was classified according to the core observation, mercury injection and phase permeability experiments. The waterflood development effect was analyzed based on the data from the field water injection test. The results show that the conglomerate reservoir can be classified into type I pure conglomerate and type II impure con-glomerate. The well productivity is controlled by the conglomerate reservoir type and reservoir thickness. The field water injection can hardly form extensive and effective waterflood channels due to the heterogeneity and rapid rock face changes of the conglomerate reservoir. The producer dynamic responses present the type of quick water breakthrough and the type of slight influence. The numerical simulation of waterflood shows that the total oil increase of the gentle water injection scenario is larger than that of the enhanced water injection scenario. The oil increase of water injection scenarios is little compared with that of the scenario without water injection. This research confirms that the waterflood feasibility for Cardium A, the thin conglomerate reservoir, to increase oil production is quite low, which also provides references for water injection development of other similar reservoirs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chloro-P,N-{diphenylphosphanyl-[(5-phenyl-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-ylamino)phenyl-me- thyl]}(p-cymene)ruthenium(II) hexafluorophosphate complex (4) was obtained in two steps from diphenylphosphanyl-[(5-phenyl-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-ylamino)phenyl-methyl] borane (2). In the first step, the oxadiazole ring coordinated with the ruthenium atom, resulting in the formation of the dichloro-N-{diphenylphosphanyl-[(5-phenyl-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-ylamino)phenyl-methyl]borane}(p-cymene) ruthenium(II) complex (3). During the crystallization of the P,N-chelate ruthenium complex, the formation of conglomerate crystals was revealed by X-ray structure analysis. Only two stereoisomers were obtained with (S)-Ru and (R)-C configurations in the first complex and with (R)-Ru and (S)-C configurations in the second. This deracemization during crystallization is due to the formation of a hydrogen bond between the P,N-ligand and the chlorine atom (CH•••Cl). This supramolecular interaction allows the transfer of the ligand chirality to the metal center and decrees the stereochemistry of the ruthenium atom.

Caves evolution is controlled by lithological properties, discontinuities, water, climate, and physicomechanical properties of soluble rocks, vegetation and human impact. This study investigates the cave formation in Upper Miocene-Pliocene clastic rock in Menteşe town of Muğla. The lithology, physico-mechanical properties and hydrogeologic factors of host rocks and morphology of the caves in Asar Hill and Damlam Stream valley were examined. The caves are 1.47-9.71 m long, 2.24-19.36 m wide and 1.38-27 m high. Four joint sets and bedding planes affect the clastics in the Asar Hill area. Mudstones (low plasticity clay, sandy clay) are in soft-very soft rock, while conglomerate is in moderate-hard rock class. The mudstone removal has started the formation of the caves. The vegetation roots act as groundwater circulation paths in the Damlam Stream area. Water has eroded mudstone and muddy matrix of conglomerate following cracks and led to the formation of the caves. Water infiltration may have led to stalactite, flowstone and travertine formation in Damlam Stream caves. Possible cave collapse could threaten life and property in the Asar Hill area, and may cause the destruction of internal structures of the caves in the Damlam Stream. Thus, precautionary measures such as continuous monitoring and protection must be taken in both cave areas.

A peculiar polemic with the views of M. Weber regarding the interaction of religion and culture begins the study of these important factors of human existence. Creative manifestations of cultural activity are dependent on the religious worldview foundations of the individual and the social conglomerate. The consequences of peoples' acceptance of world religions during the historical process of mankind, the formation of specific civilizational cultures under the influence of these religions are also subjects of current research. Regression in the relationship between religion and culture is also considered: when a strong developed culture assimilates a less developed one and, subsequently, partially or completely changes the religion that formed the oppressed culture. These processes are analyzed on the example of state formation in ancient Kyivan Rus and modern Ukraine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complex mechanical characteristics of the Xiyu conglomerate significantly influence the resistance and deformation features of its caverns' surrounding rock, thereby constraining the construction of related water diversion tunnels. This paper introduces an improved SegFormer framework developed for the detection of mesoscale geomaterial structures. Computerized tomography (CT) scan images of the Xiyu conglomerate were employed to establish a high-precision numerical model. From the results of segmentation, the proposed algorithm outperformed UNet, HRNet, and the original SegFormer neural network. The segmentation results were used to calculate the porosity, and biaxial compression numerical simulation experiments based on the real structure were carried out using the particle flow code (PFC). We observed the failure process of the model and obtained the shear strength of the Xiyu conglomerate. We explored the causes and influencing factors of the anisotropy of the Xiyu conglomerate from the microstructure perspective and provide a micro-observation basis for establishing an anisotropic mechanical model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BioAg, short for biological agriculture, is an umbrella term used by agricultural conglomerates to market biologically active products used for pest control and fertilization. Within this framing, I investigate the commodification of a type of fungus that forms a beneficial relationship with plant roots. Mycorrhizal fungi connect with root tips to exchange photosynthesized sugars for an array of what biologists call "ecosystem services," which include the translocation of soil minerals, water, and pathogen antagonism. I discuss three conditions that now give rise to the commodification of mycorrhizal fungi in industrial agriculture: the creation of an inoculant form produced under sterile (in vitro) conditions; the declaration of industrial arable soils as lacking functioning communities of mycorrhizal fungi, a deficit most easily remedied through the application of industrially produced inoculants; the build-up of a broader mycorrhizal subjectivity, which has made the loss of mycorrhizal fungi in agricultural lands a concern for those beyond agricultural and scientific communities. To analyze these three stages of the commodification of mycorrhizal fungi, I engage the framework of accumulation by restoration as part of the economy of repair. Following the work of Christopher Henke, I discuss how mycorrhizal inoculants are poised to bring about two forms of repair to soil ecologies and industrial agriculture: maintenance and transformation. I examine the challenges and controversies surrounding the efficacy of mycorrhizal inoculants, testing claims about ecological restoration and how an emergent and heavily promoted agricultural commodity might impact regional agricultural infrastructures, rural ecologies, and agrarian livelihoods. I use the case of mycorrhizal inoculants within BioAg to sort out promissory claims of sustainability, and look at how agricultural conglomerates are now building their envisioned future of industrial agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Mahu Oilfield in Xinjiang, China, is the world's largest conglomerate oilfield, with a daily output of more than 8000 tons. In the fracturing of perforated horizontal wells, the breakdown pressure is high, resulting in difficulties in their treatment. Acid pretreatment has been applied to reduce the breakdown pressure in the field, but with poor performance. Few studies have been conducted on how acid pretreatment affects the breakdown pressure under perforation conditions in the Mahu conglomerate reservoir. Also, existing fracturing or acid pretreatment experiments cannot simulate perforation well. Therefore, a new method was developed to make perforations by hydro jetting the fracturing specimens (300 mm × 300 mm × 300 mm) first. It can achieve specified perforation parameters, including the perforation angle, position, and length. Subsequently, true triaxial hydraulic fracturing experiments were conducted on the conglomerate specimens obtained from the Mahu area. The effects of the acid pretreatment on the fracture initiation and breakdown pressure were investigated by injecting the perforation section of the conglomerate using various acid systems. The study results showed that the perforation made by the new apparatus was extremely close to the perforation on-site. The acid pretreatment effectively dissolved minerals and could decrease the breakdown pressure down to 7.7 MPa. A combination of 6%HF + 10%HCl was recommended for the acid pretreatment in the Mahu conglomerate reservoir. A total of 60 min acid–rock contact time is necessary for sufficient rock dissolution. The mechanism of the acid pretreatment to decrease the breakdown pressure is that the rock dissolution by the acid reduces the rock tensile strength and increases the permeability. The raised permeability increases the fluid pressure of the reservoir near the wellbore so as to reduce the breakdown pressure of the formation. The research results provide technical support for reducing construction difficulty and optimizing parameters in the Mahu Oilfield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The St Bathans paleovalley developed as a major southwest-draining fluvial system during early Miocene rejuvenation of the Central Otago landscape. Rounded quartz pebbles and detrital gold were recycled from Eocene quartz pebble conglomerates into the headwaters of this Miocene paleodrainage system on the northern margin of the Otago Schist belt. Gold particle morphology is mostly irregular and rough, locally with relict gold crystal shapes, plus a minor component of well-defined flakes. Incremental rounding and surface deformation at the 10 µm scale has occurred through several recycling events in Central Otago, hindering linkage of Miocene and younger placer gold to ultimate basement sources. More intense deformation of the gold, forming thin flakes, occurred in the lower reaches of the Miocene paleodrainage system as gold was transported >100 km to eastern Southland. Hence, the St Bathans paleovalley has been an important source of gold for historic mining in Central Otago and Southland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ornithopod remains are reported from the Papo-Seco Formation (lower Barremian, Early Cretaceous) at Cape Espichel, south of Lisbon, in western central Portugal. The fossil material comes from the Boca do Chapim, Praia do Areia do Mastro and Praia do Guincho palaeontological sites. Some fossils are known from the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century and other remains have been recently collected. Ornithopod and other vertebrate remains from the Papo-Seco Formation occur in limestones, marls, sandstones and conglomerates in a succession interpreted as being deposited in lagoonal and estuarine environments. A study of the available palaeontological material, including teeth and postcranial remains, suggests the presence of a large styracosternan-like iguanodontian, but does not allow confirmation of the occurrence of Iguanodon or Mantellisaurus. Ornithopod remains from the Papo-Seco Formation are provisionally assigned to Ornithopoda indet., Iguanodontia indet. and cf. Styracosterna indet., increasing the record of Portuguese ornithopods of early Barremian age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A.G. Bain (1797–1864) was probably the first to describe the deposits of the Permo-Carboniferous glaciation of South Africa in 1844, but still attributed their formation to a volcanic origin. It was not until P.C. Sutherland (1822–1908) in 1868 and 1870 that the series was recognised as a glacial formation. J. E. Dunn (1844–1937) named this deposit the Dwyka Series or Dwyka Conglomerate after the Dwyka River near Prince Albert in South Africa in 1886. This series contains scratched boulders and varved sediments, and the basement is characterised by rounded boulders and striated surfaces as evidence of glaciation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]