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At least 1,531 records · Page 85

An annotated database of Arabidopsis mutants of acyl lipid metabolism

Mutants have played a fundamental role in gene discovery and in understanding the function of genes involved in plant acyl lipid metabolism. The first mutant in Arabidopsis lipid metabolism ( fad4 ) was described in 1985. Since that time, characterization of mutants in more than 280 genes associated with acyl lipid metabolism has been reported. This review provides a brief background and history on identification of mutants in acyl lipid metabolism, an analysis of the distribution of mutants in different areas of acyl lipid metabolism and presents an annotated database (ARALIPmutantDB) of these mutants. The database provides information on the phenotypes of mutants, pathways and enzymes/proteins associated with the mutants, and allows rapid access via hyperlinks to summaries of information about each mutant and to literature that provides information on the lipid composition of the mutants. Mutants for at least 30 % of the genes in the database have multiple names, which have been compiled here to reduce ambiguities in searches for information. Furthermore, the database should also provide a tool for exploring the relationships between mutants in acyl lipid-related genes and their lipid phenotypes and point to opportunities for further research.

59 BASIC BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES↗

Yb:Lu 2 O 3 hydrothermally grown single-crystal high-resolution absorption spectra obtained between 8 and 300 K

Here we present new high-resolution absorption data for the important sesquioxide laser material Yb:Lu 2 O 3 for the spectral range of 880–1020 nm, at various temperatures between 8 and 300 K, and for the zero-phonon region from 960 to 990 nm, at temperatures from 8 to 300 K. We have experimentally observed the C 3i (0,1)–(1,3) transition for the first time, located at 880.7 nm at 8 K. Based on high confidence fitting functions to the experimental data, we provide the first complete compilation of all observed electronic and electronic–vibrational transitions. Detailed fitting and plots of the C 2 and C 3i zero-line data show an evolution of the linewidth from being predominantly electronic below about 100 K to being dominated by thermal processes above 100 K. We have also found evidence for a “soft” phase transition between 80 and 100 K that changes the local coordination environment.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗

Oxygen isotope evolution of the Lake Owyhee volcanic field, Oregon, and implications for the low-δ 18 O magmatism of the Snake River Plain–Yellowstone hotspot and other low-δ 18 O large igneous provinces

The Snake River Plain–Yellowstone (SRP-Y) hotspot track represents the largest known low-δ 18 O igneous province; however, debate persists regarding the timing and distribution of meteoric hydrothermal alteration and subsequent melting/assimilation relative to hotspot magmatism. To further constrain alteration relations for SRP-Y low-δ 18 O magmatism, we present in situ δ 18 O and U–Pb analyses of zircon, and laser fluorination δ 18 O analyses of phenocrysts, from the Lake Owyhee volcanic field (LOVF) of east-central Oregon. U–Pb data place LOVF magmatism between 16.3 and 15.4 Ma, and contain no evidence for xenocrystic zircon. LOVF δ 18 O(Zrc) values demonstrate (1) both low-δ 18 O and high-δ 18 O caldera-forming and pre-/post-caldera magmas, (2) relative increases in δ 18 O between low-δ 18 O caldera-forming and post-caldera units, and (3) low-δ 18 O magmatism associated with extension of the Oregon-Idaho Graben. The new data, along with new compilations of (1) in situ zircon δ 18 O data for the SRP-Y, and (2) regional δ 18 O(WR) and δ 18 O(magma) patterns, further constrain the thermal and structural associations for hydrothermal alteration in the SRP-Y. Models for low-δ 18 O magmatism must be compatible with (1) δ 18 O(magma) trends within individual SRP-Y eruptive centers, (2) along axis trends in δ 18 O(magma), and (3) the high concentration of low-δ 18 O magmas relative to the surrounding regions. When considered with the structural and thermal evolution of the SRP-Y, these constraints support low-δ 18 O magma genesis originating from syn-hotspot meteoric hydrothermal alteration, driven by hotspot-derived thermal fluxes superimposed on extensional tectonics. Lastly, this model is not restricted to continental hotspot settings and may apply to several other low-δ 18 O igneous provinces with similar thermal and structural associations.

58 GEOSCIENCES↗

Perspectives on Few-Body Cluster Structures in Exotic Nuclei

It is a fascinating phenomenon in nuclear physics that states with a pronounced few-body structure can emerge from the complex dynamics of many nucleons. Such halo or cluster states often appear near the boundaries of nuclear stability. As such, they are an important part of the experimental program beginning at the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB). A concerted effort of theory and experiment is necessary both to analyze experiments involving effective few-body states, as well as to constrain and refine theories of the nuclear force in light of new data from these experiments. Here, as a contribution to exactly this effort, this paper compiles a collection of “perspectives” that emerged out of the Topical Program “Few-body cluster structures in exotic nuclei and their role in FRIB experiments” that was held at FRIB in August 2022 and brought together theorists and experimentalists working on this topic.

73 NUCLEAR PHYSICS AND RADIATION PHYSICS↗

Review: Pre-Darcy flows in low-permeability porous media

The widely used Darcy’s law specifies a linear relation between the Darcy velocity of fluid flow and the pressure gradient that drives the flow. However, studies have shown that Darcy velocity can exhibit a nonlinear dependence on the pressure gradient in low-permeability porous media such as clay and shale when the pressure gradient is adequately low. This phenomenon is referred to as low-velocity non-Darcian flow or pre-Darcy flow. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the theories, experimental data, and modeling methods for pre-Darcy flow in low-permeability porous media. The review begins by outlining the fundamental mechanisms underlying pre-Darcy flow that regulate the unique characteristics such as nonlinear dependence of the Darcy velocity on the pressure gradient and its relevance to fluid–rock interactions. The review then proceeds to present a thorough compilation of experimental investigations performed in various low-permeability geomaterials including tight sandstones, shales, and clays. Next, empirical and theoretical models and simulation methods that have been developed to fit and interpret experimental data are reviewed. Finally, the review underscores the challenges encountered in conducting and interpreting pre-Darcy flow experiments and suggests future research directions. By analyzing previous experimental investigations, this review aims to offer a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners seeking to enhance their understanding of fluid dynamics in low-permeability geomaterials. This provides insights into the application of pre-Darcy flow in numerous natural and engineered processes such as shale oil and gas recovery, contaminant transport in low-permeability aquifers, and geological disposal of nuclear waste.

58 GEOSCIENCES↗

Decadal carbon decomposition dynamics in three peatlands in Northern Minnesota

The uppermost portion of the peat profile, an area of active diagenetic processes, is exceedingly important for understanding peatland dynamics and the diagenesis and geochemistry of atmospherically-deposited materials. In this study, we investigated high resolution carbon (C) accrual and peat decomposition rates at two Sphagnum-rich ombrotrophic bogs and one fen in northern Minnesota, USA by analyzing 1 cm increments from 30 cm thick intact frozen blocks of peat soil. We conducted radiocarbon analysis of Sphagnum cellulose to determine peat age and net C accumulation at each depth interval. Calibrated peat ages were determined using CALIBomb and a compilation of calibration datasets for the pre-bomb period. We fit data with a negative exponential accumulation model and used model-derived parameters to estimate net primary productivity (NPP) and a peat decomposition rate constant k. FTIR spectroscopy and C:N were used to derive humification indices and to chemically characterize the peat. NPP ranged from 180 to 266 g C m -2 year -1 , k ranged from 0.015 to 0.019 year -1 . Net C accumulation rates ranged from 112 to 174 g C m -2 year -1 at 25 years and 70 to 113 g C m -2 year-1 at 50 years. Mass loss was up to 55% during the first 50 years of peat accumulation. Decomposition is greater at depth in the bogs—where 25 cm of peat correspond to 55 years of peat accumulation—than in the fen, where peat age is approximately 25 years at 25 cm depth. Lastly, information on fine-scale variations in peat mass decomposition and loss across ombrotrophic bogs and a fen help interpret other diagenetic processes in peatlands.

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES↗

How much carbon can be added to soil by sorption?

Abstract Quantifying the upper limit of stable soil carbon storage is essential for guiding policies to increase soil carbon storage. One pool of carbon considered particularly stable across climate zones and soil types is formed when dissolved organic carbon sorbs to minerals. We quantified, for the first time, the potential of mineral soils to sorb additional dissolved organic carbon (DOC) for six soil orders. We compiled 402 laboratory sorption experiments to estimate the additional DOC sorption potential, that is the potential of excess DOC sorption in addition to the existing background level already sorbed in each soil sample. We estimated this potential using gridded climate and soil geochemical variables within a machine learning model. We find that mid- and low-latitude soils and subsoils have a greater capacity to store DOC by sorption compared to high-latitude soils and topsoils. The global additional DOC sorption potential for six soil orders is estimated to be 107 $$\pm$$ ± 13 Pg C to 1 m depth. If this potential was realized, it would represent a 7% increase in the existing total carbon stock.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗

Molten Halide Salt Surface Tension: Methods and Correlations

Here, this paper reviews various methods for studying surface tension and their applicability to fluoride and chloride molten salt systems, including a comparison of benefits and drawbacks. Such a comparison aids in experiment design based on desired factors such as scale, accuracy, and repeatability. A detailed review is presented for existing literature data regarding the surface tension of molten fluoride and chloride salts. These reference data were compiled and analyzed to determine cross-validated correlation equations for several alkali and alkaline earth fluoride and chloride salts as functions of temperature. These correlations are necessary for reliable multiphysics modeling approaches as well as accurate design and analysis of multiphase molten salt phenomena such as gas sparging and bubble formation/transport. This analysis supports the development of the thermophysical arm of the Molten Salt Thermal Properties Database (MSTDB-TP) managed by Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

Chloride↗

Energy Levels, Radiative Rates, and Lifetimes for Transitions in Fe XIV

Energy levels, transition rates, and lifetimes are reported for the low-lying 129 levels of Fe XIV, belonging to the n = 3 states (1s{sup 2}2s{sup 2}2p{sup 6})3s{sup 2}3p, 3s3p{sup 2}, 3s{sup 2}3d, 3p{sup 3}, 3s3p3d, 3p{sup 2}3d, 3s3d{sup 2}, and 3p3d{sup 2}. High-accuracy calculations have been performed as benchmarks in the request for accurate treatments of relativity, electron correlation and quantum electrodynamic (QED) effects in multi-valence-electron systems. The calculated energy levels are in excellent agreement with the experimental results and the experimentally compiled energy values, of the National Institute for Standards and Technology wherever available. The calculated values including core–valence correlation are found to be in good agreement with other theoretical and experimental values.

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS, GENERAL PHYSIC↗

A review of slip transfer: applications of mesoscale techniques

In this review article, we present and discuss recent mesoscale modeling studies of slip transmission of dislocations through biphase interfaces. Specific focus is given to fcc/fcc material systems. We first briefly review experimental, atomistic, and continuum-scale work that has helped to shape our understanding of these systems. Then several mesoscale methods are discussed, including Peierls–Nabarro models, discrete dislocation dynamics models, and phase field-based techniques. Recent extensions to the mesoscale mechanics technique called phase field dislocation dynamics are reviewed in detail. Results are compiled and discussed in terms of the proposed guidelines that relate composite properties to the critical stress required for a slip transmission event.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Efficient Trainability of Linear Optical Modules in Quantum Optical Neural Networks

The existence of “barren plateau landscapes” for generic discrete-variable quantum neural networks, which obstructs efficient gradient-based optimization of cost functions defined by global measurements, would be surprising in the case of generic linear optical modules in quantum optical neural networks due to the tunability of the intensity of continuous variable states and the relevant unitary group having exponentially smaller dimension. We demonstrate that coherent light in m modes can be generically compiled efficiently if the total intensity scales sublinearly with m, and extend this result to cost functions based on homodyne, heterodyne, or photon detection measurement statistics, and to noisy cost functions in the presence of attenuation. Here, we further demonstrate efficient trainability of m mode linear optical quantum circuits for variational mean field energy estimation of positive quadratic Hamiltonians for input states that do not have energy exponentially vanishing with m.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗

Electronic Properties and Fermi Surface for New Layered High-Temperature Superconductors CaAFe{sub 4}As{sub 4} (A = K, Rb, and Cs): FLAPW-GGA Calculations

Recently, new FeAs-based high-temperature superconductors CaAFe{sub 4}As{sub 4} (A = K, Rb, and Cs) with a layered tetragonal crystal structure were synthesized (T{sub C} ∼ 30 K). In this letter, we report for the first time the band structures, Fermi surface topology, total and partial densities of electronic states, and interatomic interactions for CaAFe{sub 4}As{sub 4} as estimated by means of the first-principle FLAPW-GGA calculations. The obtained data for CaAFe{sub 4}As{sub 4} phases are analyzed in comparison with each other and with other related FeAs systems. The interatomic bonding picture can be represented as a highly anisotropic mixture of metallic, covalent, and ionic contributions, which are realized inside Fe{sub 4}As{sub 4}-layered blocks and between these blocks and Ca, A atomic sheets. The Fermi surfaces of these systems have a multisheet character and are compiled of a large number of cylinders at the edges and in the central part of the Brillouin zone. It is established that the high-temperature superconductivity in CaAFe{sub 4}As{sub 4} compounds as in other related systems correlates well with such structure parameters as bond angles and anion height.

75 CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS, SUPERCONDUCTIVITY AND↗

Cumulative fission yields of short-lived isotopes under natural-abundance-boron-carbide-moderated neutron spectrum

The availability of gamma spectroscopy data on samples containing mixed fission products at short times after irradiation is limited. Due to this limitation, data interpretation methods for gamma spectra of mixed fission product samples, where the individual fission products have not been chemically isolated from interferences, are not well-developed. The limitation is particularly pronounced for fast pooled neutron spectra because of the lack of available fast reactors in the United States. Samples containing the actinide isotopes 233, 235, 238U, 237Np, and 239Pu individually were subjected to a 2$ pulse in the Washington State University 1 MW TRIGA reactor. To achieve a fission-energy neutron spectrum, the spectrum was tailored using a natural abundance boron carbide capsule to absorb neutrons in the thermal and epithermal region of the spectrum. Our tailored neutron spectrum is unique to the WSU reactor facility, consisting of a soft fission spectrum that contains some measurable flux in the resonance region. This results in a neutron spectrum at greater than 0.1 keV with an average energy of 70 keV, similar to fast reactor spectra and approaching that of 235U fission. Unique fission product gamma spectra were collected from 4 minutes to 1 week after fission using single-crystal high purity germanium detectors. Cumulative fission product yields measured in the current work generally agree with published fast pooled fission product yield values from ENDF/B-VII, though a bias was noted for 239Pu. The present work contributes to the compilation of energy-resolved fission product yield nuclear data for nuclear forensic purposes.

Finn, Erin C.↗

Recommended nuclear data for medical radioisotope production: diagnostic positron emitters

An IAEA coordinated research project that began in 2012 and ended in 2016 was primarily dedicated to the compilation, evaluation and recommendation of cross-section data for the production of medical radionuclides. One significant part of this work focused on diagnostic positron emitters. These particular studies consist of 69 reactions for direct and indirect or generator production of 44 Sc( 44 Ti), 52 mMn( 52 Fe), 52 gMn, 55 Co, 61 Cu, 62 Cu( 62 Zn), 66 Ga, 68 Ga( 68 Ge), 72 As( 72 Se), 73 Se, 76 Br, 82 Rb( 82 Sr), 82 mRb, 86 Y, 89 Zr, 90 Nb, 94 mTc, 110 mIn( 110 Sn), 118 Sb( 118 Te), 120 I, 122 I( 122 Xe), 128 Cs( 128 Ba), and 140 Pr( 140 Nd) medical radionuclides. The resulting reference cross-section data were obtained from Padé fits to selected and corrected experimental data, and integral thick target yields were subsequently deduced. Uncertainties in the fitted results were estimated via a Padé least-squares method with the addition of a 4% assessed systematic uncertainty. Experimental data were also compared with theoretical predictions available from the TENDL-2015 and TENDL-2017 libraries.

38 RADIATION CHEMISTRY, RADIOCHEMISTRY, AND NUCLEA↗

Results from the third Galaxy Serpent tabletop exercise demonstrating the utility of nuclear forensics libraries in support of an investigation

Galaxy Serpent is a virtual, web-based international ongoing series of tabletop exercises designed to mature the concept of National Nuclear Forensics Libraries (NNFL) and illustrate their utility in answering investigative questions or providing investigative leads as part of an investigation involving nuclear or other radioactive material (R/N) out of regulatory control (MORC). Two prior versions of the exercise have been conducted; the first utilizing surrogate data for spent nuclear fuel as the material of interest, and the second using synthetic sealed radioactive source data. Teams participating in the recently concluded third version of the exercise were provided with synthetic uranium ore concentrate (UOC) data mimicking actual data characteristics (e.g. trace element concentrations), which was used to compile a model NNFL. Teams decided how to organize and interpret the data they were provided, dealt with real world features such as missing data, and assessed discriminating attributes. Next, a hypothetical scenario involving three UOC samples found out of regulatory control was provided, and each team had to assess the self-consistency of the individual sources in the unknown data, and employ their model NNFL as a comparative assessment instrument to determine whether the three UOC materials in question were consistent with any of the types of materials in their library. In conclusion, the design of the exercise, methodologies utilized by participating teams, and aggregate results of the exercise will be presented, along with challenges encountered and benefits realized.

98 NUCLEAR DISARMAMENT, SAFEGUARDS, AND PHYSICAL P↗

Are ‘Water Smart Landscapes’ Contagious? An Epidemic Approach on Networks to Study Peer Effects

Here, we test the existence of a neighborhood based peer effect around participation in an incentive based conservation program called ‘Water Smart Landscapes’ (WSL) in the city of Las Vegas, Nevada. We use 15 years of geo-coded daily records of WSL program applications and approvals compiled by the Southern Nevada Water Authority and Clark County Tax Assessors rolls for home characteristics. We use this data to test whether a spatially mediated peer effect can be observed in WSL participation likelihood at the household level. We show that epidemic spreading models provide more flexibility in modeling assumptions, and also provide one mechanism for addressing problems associated with correlated unobservables than hazards models which can also be applied to address the same questions. We build networks of neighborhood based peers for 16 randomly selected neighborhoods in Las Vegas and test for the existence of a peer based influence on WSL participation by using a Susceptible-Exposed-Infected-Recovered epidemic spreading model (SEIR), in which a home can become infected via autoinfection or through contagion from its infected neighbors. We show that this type of epidemic model can be directly recast to an additive-multiplicative hazard model, but not to purely multiplicative one. Using both inference and prediction approaches we find evidence of peer effects in several Las Vegas neighborhoods.

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES↗

How does biochar influence soil N cycle? A meta-analysis

Modern agriculture is driving the release of excessive amounts of reactive nitrogen (N) from the soils to the environment, thereby threatening ecological balances and functions. The amendment of soils with biochar has been suggested as a promising solution to regulate the soil N cycle and reduce N effluxes. However, a comprehensive and quantitative understanding of biochar impacts on soil N cycle remains elusive. A meta-analysis was conducted to assess the influence of biochar on different variables involved in soil N cycle using data compiled across 208 peer-reviewed studies. On average, biochar beneficially increases symbiotic biological N2 fixation (63%), improves plant N uptake (11%), reduces soil N2O emissions (32%), and decreases soil N leaching (26%), but it poses a risk of increased soil NH3 volatilization (19%). Biochar-induced increase in soil NH3 volatilization commonly occurs in studies with soils of low buffering capacity (soil pH = 5, organic carbon = 10 g/kg, or clay texture), the application of high alkaline biochar (straw- or manure-derived biochar), or biochar at high application rate (>40 t/ha). Besides, if the pyrolytic syngas is not purified, the biochar production process may be a potential source of N2O and NOx emissions which correspond to 2–4% and 3–24% of the feedstock-N, respectively. This study suggests that to make biochar beneficial for decreasing soil N effluxes, clean advanced pyrolysis technique and adapted use of biochar are of great importance.

biochar, nitrogen cycle, soil, nitrous oxide, ammo↗

Cyanobacterial ultrastructure in light of genomic sequence data

Cyanobacteria are physiologically and morphologically diverse photosynthetic microbes that play major roles in the carbon and nitrogen cycles of the biosphere. Recently, they have gained attention as potential platforms for the production of biofuels and other renewable chemicals. Many cyanobacteria were characterized morphologically prior to the advent of genome sequencing. Here we catalog cyanobacterial ultrastructure within the context of genomic sequence information, including high magnification transmission electron micrographs of sequenced representatives of each of the five morphological Subsections. We place the image data in the context of tabulated protein domains--which are the structural, functional and evolutionary units of proteins--from the 126 cyanobacterial genomes comprising the CyanoGEBA dataset. In particular, we identify the correspondence between ultrastructure and the occurrence of protein domains related to the formation of cyanobacterial inclusions. This compilation of images and genome-level domain occurrence will prove useful for a variety of analyses of cyanobacterial sequence data and provide a guidebook to morphological features.

59 BASIC BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES↗