Search

This study proposes a novel strategy that utilizes biochar (BC) during anaerobic fermentation (AF) to generate amino acids (AAs) toward nitrogen upcycling. The BC, pyrolyzed at 800 °C (BC800) to enhance graphite structures and electron-accepting sites, effectively addresses issues related to biosynthetic reducing power nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate insufficiency by altering cellular conditions and alleviates feedback inhibition through the immobilization of end products. This process establishes unique microbial signaling and energy networks, with Escherichia colibecoming dominant in the biofilm. The conversion rate of ammonia-N to AAs-N within the biofilm reached 67.4% in BC800-AF, which was significantly higher compared to the levels in other AF reactors with BC pyrolyzed at 600 and 400 °C (45.9 and 22.5%, respectively), as well as a control AF reactor (<5%). Furthermore, in BC800-AF, the aromatic AAs (Aro-AAs) were as high as 70.8% of the AAs within the biofilm. The activities of key enzymes for Aro-AAs biosynthesis uniquely positively correlated with the electron-accepting capacity on BC800 (R2≥ 0.95). These findings hold promise for transforming existing AF reactors into factories that produce BC-based AAs, providing a more sustainable fertilizing agent than chemical fertilizers.

"Charlie and Luther's Most Excellent Whizzbang American Roller-Coaster Adventure" is a journal article that documents the authors' road trip across the United States. The authors set out to explore America without relying on modern technology or predictable conveniences. They visited various cities, experienced different attractions, and rode 34 roller coasters. The article specifically highlights their experiences at Hersheypark and Cedar Point, two popular amusement parks known for their roller coasters. Despite encountering some challenges along the way, the authors thoroughly enjoyed their adventure and gained an appreciation for the diverse landscapes and experiences that America has to offer. [Extracted from the article]

AbstractMost high-temperature reactors use graphite as a moderator and structural material. This includes high-temperature gas-cooled reactors with helium cooling and TRi-structural ISOtropic (TRISO) fuel particles embedded in graphite, as well as fluoride salt–cooled high-temperature reactors with clean salt coolant and TRISO fuel particles embedded in graphite and thermal spectrum molten salt reactors with a graphite moderator and fuel dissolved in the salt. The largest volume radioactive waste stream from these reactors is the irradiated graphite.We describe herein a roadmap for management of these graphite wastes that contain radioactive 14C, tritium, and other radionuclides. There may be some graphite wastes with sufficiently low radioactivity levels that can be treated as nonradioactive waste and managed like other graphite waste. Management options for the graphite include (1) direct disposal, (2) recycled back to the reactor or other nuclear applications, and (3) oxidizing the graphite with release as an effluent or underground sequestration of the carbon dioxide. Cosequestration of this carbon dioxide with carbon dioxide from industrial, biological, and cement production processes can isotopically dilute the 14C before sequestration to eliminate the possibility of exceeding individual radiation exposure limits.We also describe options for processing graphite-matrix TRISO fuel, including separating the bulk graphite to reduce the volumes of used fuel for disposal or processing to recover fissile materials. The inventories of radioactive isotopes in different carbon wastes vary by many orders of magnitude; thus, there is no single economic option for the management of all graphite waste.

KM2A is one of the main sub-arrays of LHAASO, working on gamma ray astronomy and cosmic ray physics at energies above 10 TeV. Detector simulation is the important foundation for estimating detector performance and data analysis. It is a big challenge to simulate the KM2A detector in the framework of Geant4 due to the need to track numerous photons from a large number of detector units (>6000) with large altitude difference (30 m) and huge coverage (1.3 km2). In this paper, the design of the KM2A simulation code G4KM2A based on Geant4 is introduced. The process of G4KM2A is optimized mainly in memory consumption to avoid memory overflow. Some simplifications are used to significantly speed up the execution of G4KM2A. The running time is reduced by at least 30 times compared to full detector simulation. The particle distributions and the core/angle resolution comparison between simulation and experimental data of the full KM2A array are also presented, which show good agreement.

There are currently limited data regarding the effect of semaglutide 2·4 mg in individuals with obesity and prediabetes in clinical trials. We aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of semaglutide 2·4 mg for weight management and glycaemic control in participants with obesity and prediabetes.

Purpose: Heat acclimation (HA) kinetics often necessitates that the intervention is conducted in the weeks immediately preceding athletic competitions, potentially interfering with a training taper. Therefore, we investigated the efficacy of a mixed-method HA protocol, superimposed over planned external training loads, during the 3-weeks prior to the 2022 U23 World Triathlon Championships. Methods: Six international triathletes completed 8 pre-competition HA sessions (5 active: running/cycling, 3 passive: hot water immersion [HWI]), across 2-weeks. Outdoor high-intensity training sessions were followed by 30–60 min HWI, whilst low-intensity cycling/running sessions were completed in a hot, humid environmental chamber. To assess heat adaptations, participants completed three 25 min heat stress tests (HST) involving iso-speed treadmill running (session 1 = HST1, session 5 = HST2, and session 8 = HST3). Physiological, haematological and wellbeing monitoring were conducted throughout HA. Results: Reduced heart rate (~ − 6 beats/min) was observed within HST3 (P= 0.01, ηp2= 0.64), versus HST1 and HST2. No changes in core temperature were observed across HSTs (P= 0.055,ηp2= 0.44). Sweat sodium concentration was lower by HST2 at the arm (− 23 ± 16 mmol/L, P= 0.02) and back (− 27 ± 17 mmol/L, P= 0.01). White blood cell count reduced from baseline to the end of HA (P= 0.02, ηp2= 0.27), but no changes were found in any other haematological markers (all P> 0.05). Perceptual wellbeing measures did not change across HA (all P> 0.05). Conclusion: By HST3, seven prior mixed-method HA sessions improved markers of heat adaptation (exercising HR and sweat concentration) within international triathletes. Mixed-method HA may be implemented without modifying training load, with no apparent detrimental effects on athlete health or training stress markers.

A series of Ti(IV) and Zr(IV) bis(benzyl) post-metallocene precatalysts containing an unusual C(sp3)-chelating [O,N,CH(Ar)] ligand has been synthesized. The four-membered N,C-donor chelate is anticipated to engender more accessible active sites, while the aryl-substituted C(methine) moiety can introduce an element of flexibility therein. The racemic complexes have been fully characterized by multinuclear NMR spectroscopy. In particular, [1H,19F]-COSY and -HOESY experiments were conducted to elucidate the environment around the fluorine atoms at the aryl substituent. The molecular structures of two Zr derivatives have been determined by X-ray crystallography, which confirm their C1-symmetric nature and the relatively small tridentate bite angle. With regard to ethylene polymerization reactions in conjunction with trityl borate at 22 °C, the [O,N,CH(Ar)]-Ti catalysts exhibit high activities (up to 820 g mmol–1h–1atm–1for Ar = 2-fluorophenyl) and are more efficient than the C(sp2)-chelating [O,N,C(σ-aryl)] congeners, and the 2,4,6-trifluorophenyl catalyst produces a polymer (Mw= 3.3 × 102kg mol–1) with an Mw/Mnvalue of 2.3. Although evidence of C–H···F–C contacts corresponding to “weak attractive ligand–polymer interactions” has not been found for these catalysts, this study illustrates the beneficial effects arising from ortho(especially fluorine) substituents on the arylmethine moiety.

Restoring primary depositional frameworks from orogenic settings is challenging. To demonstrate a robust determination of original, but now highly deformed, depositional frameworks and their first-order sequence-stratigraphy, we analyse the Dalradian succession of Tyndrum–Glen Lyon (Breadalbane) in the southwestern Grampian Highlands of Scotland. In Breadalbane, several distinctive Appin and Argyll group Dalradian formations are absent. Omission has been attributed to ductile shearing on the Boundary Slide structure, during the Grampian Orogeny (c. 470 Ma). Alternatively, we restore and describe a primary depositional framework and widely developed intra-Dalradian basin unconformity in Breadalbane, preserved in the relatively low-strain lower limb of the Grampian D2 Ben Lui Syncline. On this unconformity, locally distinctive strata of the Easdale Subgroup, and more regionally typical strata of the Crinan Subgroup, were deposited directly on strata of the Lochaber Subgroup. Northeastward loss of strata of the Ballachulish, Blair Atholl and Islay subgroups, observed SW of Tyndrum, contrasts with gradual reappearance of correlative units northeastwards from Glen Lyon. Onlap and/or overstep relationships are well preserved; although strain is enhanced locally along pronounced stratal or rheological contrasts, the stratigraphical framework remains essentially intact. Our Scotland-wide analysis of the Dalradian depositional framework recognizes other probable basin-scale unconformities that locally influenced patterns of superimposed orogenic deformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present the synthesis and structural characterization of four distinct crystal structures, [PtAg20{S2P(OnPr)2}12]0.4[Ag20{S2P(OnPr)2}12]0.6(1), [PtAg20{S2P(OnPr)2}12]0.25[Ag20{S2P(OnPr)2}12]0.75(2), [PtAg20{S2P(OiPr)2}12] (3), and [PtAg20{S2P(OiBu)2}12] (4), utilizing two primary synthetic routes: galvanic replacement and coreduction. Despite different synthetic approaches, the PtAg20skeleton exhibited variations in symmetry, primarily due to the different arrangements of capping silver atoms. Positive-ion ESI-MS verified the composition, aligning well with theoretical calculations. Notably, the surface of these NCs demonstrates fluxional properties, suggesting rapid and dynamic changes in solution. Variable-temperature 31P{1H} NMR experiments provided insights into the fluxional nature of the NC surface and the potential for symmetry transformations in solution.

The article titled "Reminiscences of the Confederate States Navy" recounts the author's experiences as a lieutenant in the Confederate Navy during the American Civil War. It provides details about the author's resignation from the United States Navy and his subsequent service in the Confederate Navy. The article also discusses the events leading up to the war, the sentiments of the people in the South, and the preparations made by the Confederate Navy. It describes specific battles and engagements involving Confederate gunboats and the Union navy, highlighting the challenges faced by the Confederate fleet due to the superior ironclad nature of the Union ships. The article also mentions the surrender of Confederate forts in New Orleans and suggests alternative strategies that could have been employed. Additionally, the document provides a list of individuals and their roles in the Confederate Navy during the Civil War, including their appointments, promotions, assignments, and post-war activities. [Extracted from the article]

WHO, as requested by its member states, launched the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) in 1974 to make life-saving vaccines available to all globally. To mark the 50-year anniversary of EPI, we sought to quantify the public health impact of vaccination globally since the programme's inception.

Objective: To determine the influence of serum sodium on physical, psychologic and sexual function. Methods: This is a cross-sectional survey on 3340 community-dwelling men aged 40–79 years from a prospective cohort study in eight European countries, the European Male Ageing Study (EMAS). Participants filled-out the Short Form-36 (SF-36), the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE), and the EMAS sexual function questionnaire. For all the analyses, serum sodium corrected for glycaemia ([Na+]G) was used. Results: The relationship between [Na+]Gand SF-36 physical function score (F = 3.99; p = 0.01), SF-36 mental health score (F = 7.69; p &lt; 0.001), and PASE score (F = 14.95; p &lt; 0.001) were best described by a quadratic equation, with worse scores for [Na+]Gin either the lowest or the highest ends of the range. After dividing the sample into [Na+]G&lt; 136 mmol/L (n = 81), 136–147 mmol/L (n = 3223) and > 147 mmol/L (n = 36), linear regression analyses with linear spline functions adjusted for confounders did not confirm these relationships. Similarly, erectile dysfunction and [Na+]G, were in a quadratic relationship (F = 9.00; p &lt; 0.001). After adjusting for confounders, the linear regression with spline functions denoted a significantly worsened erectile function for increases in serum [Na+]G> 147 mmol/L (B = 0.15 [0.04;0.26], p &lt; 0.01) but no relationship with [Na+]G&lt; 136 mmol/L. Likewise, the relationship of [Na+]Gwith concerns about sexual dysfunction was confirmed only for men with serum [Na+]G> 147 mmol/L. Conclusions: This is the first study supporting an association between [Na+]Gand sexual function. A worsening of erection and concerns about sexual function were observed for the highest values of [Na+]G, independently of other relevant factors.

The article focuses on upcoming live poetry and arts events in Georgia this spring. Topics include poetry and music nights at HowdyATL Biscuit Cafe, The Writer's Circle of Atlanta for sharing and collaborating on creative works, and events such as Poetry in the Park and the Saturday Writers Workshop for immersive experiences in poetry and writing.

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a heterogeneous disease that develops through diverse pathophysiological processes1,2and molecular mechanisms that are often specific to cell type3,4. Here, to characterize the genetic contribution to these processes across ancestry groups, we aggregate genome-wide association study data from 2,535,601 individuals (39.7% not of European ancestry), including 428,452 cases of T2D. We identify 1,289 independent association signals at genome-wide significance (P< 5 × 10−8) that map to 611 loci, of which 145 loci are, to our knowledge, previously unreported. We define eight non-overlapping clusters of T2D signals that are characterized by distinct profiles of cardiometabolic trait associations. These clusters are differentially enriched for cell-type-specific regions of open chromatin, including pancreatic islets, adipocytes, endothelial cells and enteroendocrine cells. We build cluster-specific partitioned polygenic scores5in a further 279,552 individuals of diverse ancestry, including 30,288 cases of T2D, and test their association with T2D-related vascular outcomes. Cluster-specific partitioned polygenic scores are associated with coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease and end-stage diabetic nephropathy across ancestry groups, highlighting the importance of obesity-related processes in the development of vascular outcomes. Our findings show the value of integrating multi-ancestry genome-wide association study data with single-cell epigenomics to disentangle the aetiological heterogeneity that drives the development and progression of T2D. This might offer a route to optimize global access to genetically informed diabetes care.

Remnants of coeval Devonian oceanic and continental foreland rocks are preserved in the basement of the North Patagonian Andes. Our previous studies of the igneous rocks here have shown that the primitive oceanic and continental igneous rocks are coeval and belong to a marginal basin that opened and closed over 50 Myr. A structural study and four new U–Pb SHRIMP ages and zircon Hf–O determinations allowed the identification of three metamorphic episodes, the first one of which, M1(D1-S1), is coeval with Andean-type granite intrusion in the foreland (405–380 Ma). This activity was simultaneous with the development of an oceanic ridge and a marginal basin, at the outer edge of which a primitive granitic oceanic arc formed (380–385 Ma; zircon δ 18O 3.6–5.2‰). The extinction of this ridge initiated under-thrusting of the oceanic crust below the continent and an important mid- to high-grade metamorphic event, M2(D2-S2) at 375–360 Ma, its peak dated by metamorphic zircon rims in migmatite at 365 ± 3 Ma. Basin closure occurred after the intrusion of S-type granites (357 ± 2 Ma; zircon δ 18O 7.4–10.4‰) in the foreland and the accretion of gabbros, cumulate gabbros and trondhjemites at the proto-Pacific margin. Compression prevailed for 20 Myr in the foreland, causing a mylonitic medium-grade M3(D3-S3) event. Supplementary material: Datasets are available at https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.6989873 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the 2024 presidential election, highlighting the contrasting candidates, Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. It critiques both candidates, pointing out their flaws and lack of conservative values. The author emphasizes the importance of conservatism and suggests that despite the current political climate, conservatism is still prevalent at the state level. The article concludes by expressing confidence in the enduring principles of conservatism in the face of current challenges. [Extracted from the article]