bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptation of electrodes and printable gel polymer electrolytes for optimized fully organic batteries
Authors: Muench Simon , Burges René , Lex‐Balducci Alexandra , Brendel Johannes C. , Jäger Michael , Friebe Christian , Wild Andreas , Schubert Ulrich S.
Published: February 2021

Despite intensive scientific efforts on the development of organic batteries, their full potential is still not being realized. The individual components, such as electrode materials and electrolytes, are in most cases developed independently and are not adjusted to each other. In this context, we report on the performance optimization of a full‐organic solid‐state battery system by the mutual adaptation of the electrode materials and an ionic liquid (IL)‐based gel polymer electrolyte (GPE). The formulation of the latter was designed for a one‐step manufacturing approach and can be applied directly to the electrode surface, where it is UV‐cured to yield the GPE without further post‐treatment steps. Herein, a special focus was placed on the applicability in industrial processes. A first significant capacity increase was achieved by the incorporation of the IL into the electrode composite. Furthermore, the GPE composition was adapted applying acrylate‐ and methacrylate‐based monomers and combinations thereof with the premise of a fast curing step. Furthermore, the amount of IL was varied, and all combinations were evaluated for their final performance in cells. The latter variation revealed that a high ionic conductivity is not the only determining factor for a good cell performance. Next to a sufficient conductivity, the interaction between electrode and electrolyte plays a key role for the cell performance as it enhances the accessibility of the counter ions to the redox‐active sites.
An evaluation of healthcare utilization and clinical charges in children and adults with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Perkins Ryan C. , Shah Mahek , Sawicki Gregory S.
Published: February 2021

Background

Prior studies have estimated healthcare costs for cystic fibrosis (CF) of $8000–$131,000, but do not account for impacts of CF modulator therapy. This study aims to assess utilization patterns and cost of CF care in a center in the United States.

Methods

Care utilization patterns and costs at a large pediatric‐adult CF center were examined from November 2017 to November 2018. Subjects were stratified by age and cost (excluding pharmacy costs) were calculated based on hospital‐derived utilization charges.

Results

A total of 166 patients were reviewed with mean clinical charges of $28,755. Lower lung function ($23,032 normal lung function, $62,293 moderate reduction, $186,786 severe reduction; p = .05), hospitalizations ($85,452 yes, $6362 no; p = .0001), Pseudomonas positive culture ($48,660 positive, $22,013 negative, p = .0001), and CF‐related diabetes ($161,892 CFRD, $22,153 no CFRD; p = .001) were associated with increased charges. Patients utilizing Ivacaftor had lower charges compared to lumacaftor–ivacaftor ($6633 vs. $33,039; p = .05) and tezacaftor–ivacaftor ($6633 vs. $64,434; p = .002).

Conclusion

Our study characterized utilization and care charges among a CF cohort. Lower lung function, hospitalizations, and CFRD were associated with increased charges.
Measures of ventilation heterogeneity mapped with hyperpolarized helium‐3 MRI demonstrate a T2‐high phenotype in asthma
Authors: Gerald Teague W. , Mata Jaime , Qing Kun , Tustison Nicholas J. , Mugler John P. , Meyer Craig H. , de Lange Eduard E , Shim Yun M. , Wavell Kristin , Altes Talissa A.
Published: February 2021

Background

Hyperpolarized gas with helium (HHe‐3) MR (magnetic resonance) is a noninvasive imaging method which maps and quantifies regions of ventilation heterogeneity (VH) in the lung. VH is an important feature of asthma, but little is known as to how VH informs patient phenotypes.

Purpose

To determine if VH indicators quantified by HHe‐3 MR imaging (MRI) predict phenotypic characteristics and map to regions of inflammation in children with problematic wheeze or asthma.

Methods

Sixty children with poorly‐controlled wheeze or asthma underwent HHe‐3 MRI, including 22 with bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). The HHe‐3 signal intensity defined four ventilation compartments. The non‐ventilated and hypoventilated compartments divided by the total lung volume defined a VH index (VHI %).

Results

Children with VHI % in the upper quartile had significantly greater airflow limitation, bronchodilator responsiveness, blood eosinophils, expired nitric oxide (FeNO), and BAL eosinophilic or neutrophilic granulocyte patterns compared to children with VHI % in the lower quartile. Lavage return from hypoventilated bronchial segments had greater eosinophil % than from ventilated segments.

Conclusion

In children with asthma, greater VHI % as measured by HHe‐3 MRI identifies a severe phenotype with higher type 2 inflammatory markers, and maps to regions of lung eosinophilia. Listed on ClinicalTrials. gov (NCT02577497).
Pharmacokinetics of buprenorphine in pregnant sheep after intravenous injection
Authors: Hakomäki Henriikka , Kokki Hannu , Lehtonen Marko , Ranta Veli‐Pekka , Räsänen Juha , Voipio Hanna‐Marja , Kokki Merja
Published: February 2021

Buprenorphine is a semi‐synthetic opioid, widely used in the maintenance treatment for opioid‐dependent pregnant women. Limited data exist on the pharmacokinetics of buprenorphine in pregnancy. We conducted a pharmacokinetic study to determine the pharmacokinetics of intravenous buprenorphine in pregnant sheep. Fourteen pregnant sheep in late gestation received 10 µg/kg of buprenorphine as an intravenous bolus injection. Plasma samples were collected up to 48 h after administration. Buprenorphine and its metabolite, norbuprenorphine, were quantified from plasma using a LC/MS/MS method, with lower limits of quantification of 0.01 µg/L and 0.04 µg/L for buprenorphine and norbuprenorphine, respectively. The pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated using noncompartmental analysis. The pharmacokinetic parameters, median (minimum−maximum), were Cmax 4.31 µg/L (1.93–15.5), AUCinf 2.89 h*µg/L (1.72–40.2), CL 3.39 L/h/kg (0.25–6.02), terminal t½ 1.75 h (1.07–31.0), Vss 8.04 L/kg (1.05–49.3). Norbuprenorphine was undetected in all plasma samples. The median clearance in pregnant sheep was higher than previously reported for nonpregnant sheep and human (male) subjects. Our sensitive analytical method was able to detect long terminal half‐lives for six subjects, and a wide between‐subject variability in the study population.

Significance statement: Buprenorphine is widely used for the treatment of opioid use disorder in pregnancy. However, limited data exist on the pharmacokinetics of buprenorphine during pregnancy. As this type of study cannot be done in humans due to ethical reasons, we conducted a study in pregnant sheep. This study provides pharmacokinetic data on buprenorphine in pregnant sheep and helps us to understand the pharmacokinetics of the drug in humans.
Skills mismatch and the migration paradox of Israeli life scientists
Authors: Cohen Nir , Eyal Nurit
Published: February 2021

The paper examines the nexus between skills mismatch, educational/industrial policies, and brain circulation in Israel. Focusing on the field of life sciences (LS), it argues that migratory movements of highly educated Israelis are fueled by vertical (inadequate level) and horizontal (inadequate type) skills mismatches. It shows that whereas many so‐called bio‐brains migrate due to being underqualified (lacking postdoctoral training), their return is often delayed or prevented altogether due to shortage of academic positions and the incompatibility between their fields of (academic) specialisation and the (industrial) jobs available in the country's small LS industry. Drawing on primary and secondary qualitative data, the paper analyses the structural forces and agentic articulations behind this migration paradox, which sees departing bio‐scientists who are underqualified for academic positions becoming (potential) returnees who are largely overqualified and inappropriately trained for industrial jobs. The paper concludes by highlighting potential avenues for research on the links between skills mismatch and international mobility.
Chemical Stability of IrO2 Top Electrodes in Ferroelectric Hf0.5Zr0.5O2‐Based Metal–Insulator–Metal Structures: The Impact of Annealing Gas
Authors: Szyjka Thomas , Baumgarten Lutz , Mittmann Terence , Matveyev Yury , Schlueter Christoph , Mikolajick Thomas , Schroeder Uwe , Müller Martina
Published: February 2021

The IrO2 top electrode chemistry of ferroelectric IrO2/Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 (HZO)/IrO2 metal–insulator–metal (MIM) structures dependent on rapid thermal annealing in different gas atmospheres (nitrogen, oxygen, and forming gas [FG]) is investigated. Using hard X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (HAXPES), the strongly modified chemical states of the IrO2 layer dependent on the choice of annealing gas atmosphere are observed. For O2 and N2 anneals, the IrO2 electrode remains either unaffected or is just slightly chemically attacked at the top. In contrast, FG annealing causes a complete reduction of the IrO2 top electrode into metallic Ir. Surprisingly, oxygen is detected—unbound to Ir—which is incorporated in the metallic Ir layer. This mobile oxygen is thought to affect the electrical behavior of the IrO2/HZO/IrO2 device. In addition, it may serve as a test sample for future studies of the root causes of the role of oxygen‐vacancy interactions at the interface, which can influence the performance instabilities in HZO‐based MIM structures, such as wake‐up, imprint, and fatigue.
Highly Enhanced Light–Matter Interaction in MXene Quantum Dots–Monolayer WS2 Heterostructure
Authors: Neupane Guru Prakash , Wang Bowen , Tebyetekerwa Mike , Nguyen Hieu T. , Taheri Mahdiar , Liu Boqing , Nauman Mudassar , Basnet Rabin
Published: February 2021

Since the Ti3C2 was discovered in 2011, the family of MXenes has attracted much attention. MXenes offer great potential in the tuning of many fundamental properties by the synthesis of new structures. The synthesis methods of MXene mainly require steps including immersing a MAX phase in hydrofluoric acid (HF) and processing at high temperatures. However, the HF may be hard to acquire in many countries and processing at high temperatures may cause risk issues. In this article, a simple and cost‐effective synthesis of Ti3C2Tx quantum dots (QDs) via chemical solution method that follows the long‐time magnetic stirring process‐initiated etching of Al atoms from commercial Ti3AlC2 powder at room temperature is introduced. With WS2 monolayer sitting over the MXenes QD arrays, a higher level of photoluminescence (PL) enhancement is found in the heterostructure with increasing laser power at room temperature and a few novel quasi‐particles species in the heterostructure at −190 °C. The observations show that the possible plasmonic behavior initiated by QD arrays and the suspension state of WS2 may coplay the roles to trigger multiple quasi‐particles species. This study can be an important benchmark for the extensive understanding of quasi‐particles species, and their dynamics.
Manipulating Electrocatalysis using Mosaic Catalysts
Authors: Luo Yuting , Chiang Sum Wai , Tang Lei , Zhang Zhiyuan , Yang Fengning , Yu Qiangmin , Ding Baofu , Liu Bilu
Published: February 2021

Understanding the mechanisms and developing strategies toward efficient electrocatalysis at gas–liquid–solid interfaces are important yet challenging. In the past decades, researchers have devoted many efforts to improve catalyst activity by modulating electronic properties of catalysts in terms of chemical components and physical features. Herein, a mosaic catalyst, which is defined as a catalyst with spatially isolated and periodically distributed active areas, is developed to dramatically improve the activity of catalysts. Taking Pt catalyst as an example, the mosaic Pt leads to high catalytic performance, showing a specific activity 11 times higher than that of uniform Pt films for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), as well as higher current densities than commercial Pt/C and uniform Pt films. Such a strategy is found to be general to other catalysts (e.g., 2D PtS) and other reactions (e.g., oxygen evolution reaction). The improved catalytic performance of the mosaic catalysts is attributed to enhanced mass transferability and local electric field strength, both of which are determined by the occupation ratios of catalysts. The work shines new light on manipulating electrocatalysis from the perspective of the spatial structures of catalysts, which guides the design of efficient catalysts for heterogeneous reactions.
Spawning Intervals, Timing, and Riverine Habitat Use of Adult Atlantic Sturgeon in the Hudson River
Authors: Breece M. W. , Higgs A. L. , Fox D. A.
Published: February 2021

The Hudson River currently supports the largest population of Atlantic Sturgeon Acipenser oxyrinchus in the United States despite currently supporting less than 1% of historic abundance. Federally listed as endangered throughout much of their range, Atlantic Sturgeon are still impacted by multiple threats, resulting in habitat destruction or direct mortality that has inhibited the rebuilding of populations despite more than 20 years without direct fishing pressure. To assist in management and reduction in anthropogenic impacts to adult Atlantic Sturgeon in the Hudson River, we have examined sex‐specific patterns related to spawning. Utilizing hundreds of adult Atlantic Sturgeon telemetered along the Atlantic coast and an extensive passive acoustic array from 2010 to 2016, we were able to estimate arrival, departure, and duration of occupancy for four segments of the Hudson River for male, female, and unknown‐sex individuals. Male Atlantic Sturgeon arrived above river kilometer (RKM; RKM 0 = Battery Park, New York) 100 at an average date of May 27, 12 d prior to females on June 8. While there were only a few significant differences in the timing of departure, the average date from RKM 100 was July 11 for males, June 29 for females, and July 23 for unknown‐sex individuals, as such occupancy was significantly longer for male Atlantic Sturgeon. This study shows that female Atlantic Sturgeon often spawned in consecutive years and had much shorter mean intervals between spawning appearances (females 1.66 years, males 1.28 years) than the historical literature suggests. While the timing of spawning is consistent with the historic record, we provide a timeline with finer resolution and much greater detail for adults in the Hudson River, as well as update the historic estimate of spawning return rates. Conservation measures to reduce direct impacts to spawning habitat and mature Atlantic Sturgeon would likely provide the most benefit if conducted between mid‐May through the end of July.
Algae: A natural active material for biomedical applications
Authors: Zhong Danni , Du Zhen , Zhou Min
Published: February 2021

Tremendous opportunities exist for biomaterials in biomedical applications. Microalgae, as a kind of natural resources, have been recently used as novel biological materials, and have attracted a great deal of interest in this field. The unique morphological characteristics and easily functionalized surfaces of microalgae allow the attachment of diagnostic or therapeutic agents on their surface, making them promising candidates for the construction of novel biochemical probes, drug carriers or biomedical scaffolds. As a natural photosynthetic system with rich autofluorescent pigments, algae can improve local oxygen concentration by in situ oxygen production and perform biomedical imaging (fluorescence imaging and photoacoustic imaging), which have been widely studied in the diagnosis and therapies of hypoxia‐associated diseases such as solid tumors and wounds. This review offers a summary of the biological properties of microalgae as well as their recent developments in diagnostic and therapeutic applications in bioanalysis, tissue engineering, hypoxia‐associated tumor therapy and wound healing. This naturally abundant, low cost and biocompatible material offers algae‐based agents an exceptional potential for commercial and clinical practice.
Correction to: The Palgrave Handbook of Digital Russia Studies
Authors: Gritsenko Daria , Wijermars Mariëlle , Kopotev Mikhail
Published: February 2021

This book was inadvertently published with an incorrect affiliation for the Author Mikhail Kopotev. The affiliation has now been amended in the book.
Optimal Energy Portfolios in the Electricity Sector: Trade-Offs and Interplay Between Different Flexibility Options
Authors: Schreiber Steffi , Zöphel Christoph , Möst Dominik
Published: February 2021

The expansion of renewable energy sources (RES) and the electrification of demand side sectors raise the need for power system flexibility. The following model-based analysis illustrates the complexity of the European energy system transformation with pathways regarding the RES expansion, sector coupling, and different levels of flexibility provision. Differences occur concerning the optimal mix of flexibility options between the moderate and ambitious climate target scenarios. Dispatchable back-up capacities are necessary, also in presence of high RES shares. Here, CO2 prices influence the role of low-carbon technologies. Due to cross-sectoral interactions, energy storages have a limited value. For the ambitious scenarios, the emission reductions come close to the Green Deal targets of the European Commission, while levelized costs of electricity increase moderately compared to the less ambitious scenario.
Optimal Energy Portfolios in the Heating Sector and Flexibility Potentials of Combined-Heat-Power Plants and District Heating Systems
Authors: Raczyński Maciej , Wyrwa Artur , Pluta Marcin , Suwała Wojciech
Published: February 2021

This chapter examines the role of centralized district heating (DH) systems in context of energy system flexibility and decarbonization. The analysis is performed by applying the model TIMES-Heat-EU. Capacity expansion and operation of the district heating generation units is mainly driven by the evolution of the district heating demand, which varies between the REFLEX scenarios. In all scenarios fuel and technology switches toward bioenergy and natural gas leading to CO2 emission reduction. Since the total amount of energy produced (both heat and electricity) is the highest in the High-RES centralized scenario, the corresponding CO2 emissions for district heating are the highest as well. The CO2 emissions can be reduced by ⁓60% in 2050 compared to 2015. Furthermore, the role of thermal energy storage and power-to-heat technologies is examined.
Unintended Environmental Impacts at Local and Global Scale—Trade-Offs of a Low-Carbon Electricity System
Authors: Fuss Maryegli , Xu Lei
Published: February 2021

The focus on expanding the sector coupling and binding the electricity system and end-user sectors like the transport and industry bring attention to environmental trade-offs. Otherwise, unintended environmental impacts could potentially impede the transformation process. Given that, this paper aims to identify and discuss environmental burdens that should require government attention. For that, the approach of coupling Life Cycle Assessment with the electricity market model (ELTRAMOD) is presented. Results show that the large impact on land use occupation as a regional issue requires attention due to diversified permitting mechanisms and eligibility criteria for solar fields among European member states. Metal and ozone depletion bring the challenge that transformation processes need attention on global limits related to finite resources and fugitive losses of anthropogenic substances.
Deriving Experience Curves and Implementing Technological Learning in Energy System Models
Authors: Louwen Atse , Junginger Martin
Published: February 2021

Technological learning encompasses a variety of mechanisms by which technologies improve and decrease in costs. Experience curves are commonly used to analyze and explicitly quantify technological learning. This chapter presents the history and basic methodology of experience curves, and discusses the implementation of experience curves in energy system and sectoral energy models. Several key results of the REFLEX project with respect to state-of-the-art experience curves, and the implementation of experience curves in the REFLEX Energy Modeling System are highlighted. Finally, a set of key lessons learned in the REFLEX project are presented, discussing both methodological issues of experience curves as well as key issues with regard to the implementation of experience curves in different types of energy system and sectoral energy models.
Electric Vehicle Market Diffusion in Main Non–European Markets
Authors: Seddig Katrin , Jochem Patrick , Fichtner Wolf
Published: February 2021

Electric vehicles (i.e., battery and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles) are seen as one promising technology toward a sustainable transport system as they have the potential to reduce CO2 emissions. The forecast of their market penetration depends on various factors including the cost development of key components such as the electric battery. This chapter focuses on the impact of experience curves on the battery costs, and consequently on the electric vehicles’ market penetration, which is simulated by coupling two system dynamics transport models: ASTRA, representing Europe, and TE3, representing key non-European car markets. The results of the TE3 model show that the consideration of global endogenous learning curves has an impact on the battery costs and therefore, the development of the electric vehicle stock (“feedback loop”).
Disruptive Demand Side Technologies: Market Shares and Impact on Flexibility in a Decentralized World
Authors: Heitel Stephanie , Klingler Anna-Lena , Herbst Andrea , Fermi Francesca
Published: February 2021

Electricity demand is expected to increase strongly as electrification and the use of hydrogen are promising decarbonization options for the demand side sectors transport and industry. In a decentralized system with volatile renewable energy sources, flexibility potentials will play an important role for secure and cost-efficient electricity supply. On the demand side, decentralized PV-battery systems and electric vehicles as well as hydrogen production by electrolyzers could provide the necessary flexibility. Energy demand over time is calculated based on assumed and simulated market shares of these and other low-emission technologies. Impacts on the system and residual load are analyzed, with a focus on the contribution of load shifting as a demand-side measure. Results indicate that load shifting can contribute significantly to integrate RES electricity.
Color/kinematics duality in AdS4
Authors: Armstrong Connor , Lipstein Arthur E. , Mei Jiajie
Published: February 2021

Abstract

In flat space, the color/kinematics duality states that perturbative Yang-Mills amplitudes can be written in such a way that kinematic numerators obey the same Jacobi relations as their color factors. This remarkable duality implies BCJ relations for Yang-Mills amplitudes and underlies the double copy to gravitational amplitudes. In this paper, we find analogous relations for Yang-Mills amplitudes in AdS4. In particular we show that the kinematic numerators of 4-point Yang-Mills amplitudes computed via Witten diagrams in momentum space enjoy a generalised gauge symmetry which can be used to enforce the kinematic Jacobi relation away from the flat space limit, and we derive deformed BCJ relations which reduce to the standard ones in the flat space limit. We illustrate these results using compact new expressions for 4-point Yang-Mills amplitudes in AdS4 and their kinematic numerators in terms of spinors. We also spell out the relation to 3d conformal correlators in momentum space, and speculate on the double copy to graviton amplitudes in AdS4.
Asymptotic Expansion for Neural Network Operators of the Kantorovich Type and High Order of Approximation
Authors: Cantarini Marco , Costarelli Danilo , Vinti Gianluca
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we study the rate of pointwise approximation for the neural network operators of the Kantorovich type. This result is obtained proving a certain asymptotic expansion for the above operators and then by establishing a Voronovskaja type formula. A central role in the above resuts is played by the truncated algebraic moments of the density functions generated by suitable sigmoidal functions. Furthermore, to improve the rate of convergence, we consider finite linear combinations of the above neural network type operators, and also in the latter case, we obtain a Voronovskaja type theorem. Finally, concrete examples of sigmoidal activation functions have been deeply discussed, together with the case of rectified linear unit (ReLu) activation function, very used in connection with deep neural networks.
Heilige und die Urologie
Authors: Schwarzburger Marie-Isabelle , Moll Friedrich H. , Söhner Felicitas
Published: February 2021

Zu den diversen frühneuzeitlichen Heilungsangeboten gehörte auch die Hagiotherapie, die für den Bereich der Urologie, insbesondere bei Harnsteinleiden oder den seuchenartig auftretenden Geschlechtskrankheiten, in den verschiedenen deutschen Regionen eine wichtige Rolle einnahm. Noch heute werden besonders in katholischen Gegenden weltweit der Hl. Liborius oder der Hl. Rochus neben dem Hl. Apollinaris oder dem Hl. Dionysius durchaus erinnert.
Equivalent tumor detection for early and late FAPI-46 PET acquisition
Authors: Ferdinandus J. , Kessler L. , Hirmas N. , Trajkovic-Arsic M. , Hamacher R. , Umutlu L. , Nader M. , Zarrad F. , Weber M. , Fendler W. P.
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Positron emission tomography (PET) using small ligands of the fibroblast activation protein (FAP) was recently introduced. However, optimal uptake time has not been defined yet. Here, we systematically compare early (~ 10 min p.i.) and late (~ 60 min p.i.) FAPI-46 imaging in patients with various types of cancer.

Methods

This is a retrospective single-institutional study. Imaging was performed at the Essen University Hospital, Germany. A total of 69 patients who underwent dual time-point imaging for either restaging (n = 52, 75%) or staging (n = 17, 25%) of cancer were included. Patients underwent PET with two acquisitions: early (mean 11 min, SD 4) and late (mean 66 min, SD 9). Mean injected activity was 148 MBq (SD 33).

Results

In total, 400 lesions were detected in 69 patients. Two of 400 (0.5%) lesions were only seen in early time-point imaging but not in late time-point imaging. On a per-patient level, there was no significant difference between SUVmax of hottest tumor lesions (Wilcoxon: P = 0.73). Organ uptake demonstrated significant early to late decrease in SUVmean (average ∆SUVmean: − 0.48, − 0.14, − 0.27 for gluteus, liver, and mediastinum, respectively; Wilcoxon: P < 0.001). On a per-lesion basis, a slight increase of SUVmax was observed (average ∆SUVmax: + 0.4, Wilcoxon: P = 0.03).

Conclusion

In conclusion, early (~ 10 min p.i.) versus late (~ 60 min p.i.) FAPI-46 imaging resulted in equivalent lesion uptake and tumor detection. For improved feasibility and scan volume, we implement early FAPI-46 PET in future clinical and research protocols.
Kaposi sarcoma in anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis: a case-based review
Authors: Tiong Benedict K. , Singh Arun S. , Sarantopoulos G. Peter , Kermani Tanaz A.
Published: February 2021

Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis (AAV) are systemic necrotizing vasculitides associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Given the immunosuppression used to manage these conditions, it is important for clinicians to recognize complications, especially infectious ones, which may arise during treatment. Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is a lymphoangioproliferative neoplasm caused by human herpes virus 8 (HHV-8). Its cutaneous manifestations can mimic vasculitis. We describe a 77-year-old man with microscopic polyangiitis with pulmonary-renal syndrome treated with prednisone and intravenous cyclophosphamide who developed KS (HHV-8 positive) after 2 months of treatment. Cyclophosphamide was discontinued and prednisone gradually lowered with improvement and clinical stabilization of KS lesions. This comprehensive review includes all published cases of KS in patients with AAV, with a goal to summarize potential risk factors including the clinical characteristics of vasculitis, treatment and outcomes of patients with this rare complication of immunosuppressive therapy. We also expanded our literature review to KS in other forms of systemic vasculitis. Our case-based review emphasizes the importance of considering infectious complications of immunosuppressive therapy, especially glucocorticoids, and highlights the rare association of KS in systemic vasculitis.
A Uniqueness Result for a Simple Superlinear Eigenvalue Problem
Authors: Herrmann Michael , Matthies Karsten
Published: February 2021

We study the eigenvalue problem for a superlinear convolution operator in the special case of bilinear constitutive laws and establish the existence and uniqueness of a one-parameter family of nonlinear eigenfunctions under a topological shape constraint. Our proof uses a nonlinear change of scalar parameters and applies Krein–Rutman arguments to a linear substitute problem. We also present numerical simulations and discuss the asymptotics of two limiting cases.
Planned morning aerobic exercise in a fasted state increases energy intake in the preceding 24 h
Authors: Barutcu Asya , Briasco Elizabeth , Moon Jake , Stensel David J. , King James A. , Witcomb Gemma L. , James Lewis J.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

We previously observed increased energy intake (EI) at the meal before planned afternoon exercise, but the proximity of the meal to exercise might have reduced the scale of the pre-exercise anticipatory eating. Therefore, this study examined EI in the 24 h before fasted morning exercise.

Methods

Fourteen males, experienced with gym-based aerobic exercise (age 25 ± 5 years, BMI 23.8 ± 2.5 kg/m2), completed counterbalanced exercise (EX) and resting (REST) trials. On day 1, subjects were told the following morning’s activity (EX/REST), before eating ad-libitum laboratory-based breakfast and lunch meals and a home-based afternoon/evening food pack. The following morning, subjects completed 30-min cycling and 30-min running (EX; 3274 ± 278 kJ) or 60-min supine rest (REST; 311 ± 34 kJ) fasted. Appetite was measured periodically, and EI quantified.

Results

Afternoon/evening EI (EX 7371 ± 2176 kJ; REST 6437 ± 2070 kJ; P = 0.017) and total 24-h EI (EX 14,055 ± 3672 kJ; REST 12,718 ± 3379 kJ; P = 0.011) were greater during EX, with no difference between trials at breakfast (P = 0.761) or lunch (P = 0.071). Relative EI (EI minus energy expended through EX/REST) was lower in EX (EX 10,781 ± 3539 kJ; REST 12,407 ± 3385 kJ; P = 0.004).

Conclusion

This study suggests planned fasted aerobic exercise increases EI during the preceding afternoon/evening, precipitating a ~ 10% increase in EI in the preceding 24-h. However, this increase did not fully compensate for energy expended during exercise; meaning exercise induced an acute negative energy balance.
Cardiac small-conductance calcium-activated potassium channels in health and disease
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Dong , Thai Phung N. , Lieu Deborah K. , Chiamvimonvat Nipavan
Published: February 2021

Small-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (SK, KCa2) channels are encoded by KCNN genes, including KCNN1, 2, and 3. The channels play critical roles in the regulation of cardiac excitability and are gated solely by beat-to-beat changes in intracellular Ca2+. The family of SK channels consists of three members with differential sensitivity to apamin. All three isoforms are expressed in human hearts. Studies over the past two decades have provided evidence to substantiate the pivotal roles of SK channels, not only in healthy heart but also with diseases including atrial fibrillation (AF), ventricular arrhythmia, and heart failure (HF). SK channels are prominently expressed in atrial myocytes and pacemaking cells, compared to ventricular cells. However, the channels are significantly upregulated in ventricular myocytes in HF and pulmonary veins in AF models. Interests in cardiac SK channels are further fueled by recent studies suggesting the possible roles of SK channels in human AF. Therefore, SK channel may represent a novel therapeutic target for atrial arrhythmias. Furthermore, SK channel function is significantly altered by human calmodulin (CaM) mutations, linked to life-threatening arrhythmia syndromes. The current review will summarize recent progress in our understanding of cardiac SK channels and the roles of SK channels in the heart in health and disease.
Mesh fixation to fascia during incisional hernia repair results in increased prevalence of pain at long-term follow up: a multicenter propensity score matched prospective observational study
Authors: Kohler Andreas , Lavanchy Joël L. , Gasser Rahel , Wyss Roland , Nowak Lars , Scheiwiller Andreas , Hämmerli Peter , Candinas Daniel , Beldi Guido
Published: February 2021

Background

Patient-reported outcomes such as postoperative pain are critical for the evaluation of outcomes after incisional hernia repair. The aim of this study is to determine the long-term impact of mesh fixation on postoperative pain in patients operated by open and laparoscopic technique.

Methods

A multicenter prospective observational cohort study was conducted from September 2011 until March 2016 in nine hospitals across Switzerland. Patients undergoing elective incisional hernia repair were included in this study and stratified by either laparoscopic or open surgical technique. Propensity score matching was applied to balance the differences in baseline characteristics between the treatment groups. Clinical follow-up was conducted 3, 12 and 36 months postoperatively to detect hernia recurrence, postoperative pain and complications.

Results

Three-hundred-sixty-one patients were included into the study. No significant differences in hernia recurrence and pain at 3, 12 and 36 months postoperatively were observed when comparing the laparoscopic with the open treatment group. Mesh fixation by sutures to fascia versus other mesh fixation led to significantly more pain at 36 months postoperatively (32.8% vs 15.7%, p = 0.025).

Conclusions

At long-term follow-up, no difference in pain was identified between open and laparoscopic incisional hernia repair. Mesh fixation by sutures to fascia was identified to be associated with increased pain 36 months after surgery. Omitting mesh fixation by sutures to the fascia may reduce long-term postoperative pain after hernia repair.
Patterns, timing, and predictors of recurrence after laparoscopic liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma: results from a high-volume HPB center
Authors: Zhang Haili , Liu Fei , Wen Ningyuan , Li Bo , Wei Yonggang
Published: February 2021

Background

Although long-term outcomes may be comparable between laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) and open liver resection (OLR) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), there has been little discussion regarding the patterns of recurrence after LLR.

Methods

Patients with HCC who underwent hepatectomy between April 2015 and November 2018 were included in this study. The recurrence patterns were analyzed in detail. The recurrence outcomes following laparoscopic versus OLR for HCC were compared after 1:2 propensity score matching. Potential risk factors for recurrence were also assessed with Cox proportional risk models.

Results

Among 425 patients after LLR, 144 (33.8%) experienced recurrence at the last follow-up, with a median recurrence-free survival (RFS) of 10.0 months (range 1–58 months). The most frequent recurrence site was the liver (n = 99, 68.8%), followed by the surgical margin (n = 15, 10.4%) and distant metastases (n = 12, 8.3%). Liver recurrence with distant metastasis (n = 10, 6.9%) tended to occur early (median 8.0 months), while peritoneal recurrence (n = 8, 5.6%) occurred later (median 14.0 months). A total of 120 (83.3%) patients had recurrence within 2 years after LLR. No trocar site recurrence was observed in this study. The recurrence patterns, timing, and treatment did not show significant differences between the LLR and OLR. The independent risk factors for recurrence included ALBI grade, postoperative α-fetoprotein > 8 ng/ml, tumor size > 5 cm, surgical margin ≤ 1 cm, and multiple tumors. Patients with recurrence had 1- and 5-year overall survival rates of 81.1% and 60.7%, respectively, compared with rates of 95.8% and 92.9% for patients without recurrence (P < 0.000).

Conclusion

This study suggested that intrahepatic recurrence was still the most common recurrence pattern for HCC after LLR and that LLR did not increase the risk of trocar hole recurrence or implantation. Most cases of recurrence occurred within 2 years after LLR, suggesting that surveillance should be targeted to early recurrence.
Dental and periodontal disease in patients with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Tan Christopher X. W. , Brand Henk S. , Kalender Bilgin , De Boer Nanne K. H. , Forouzanfar Tymour , de Visscher Jan G. A. M.
Published: February 2021

Objectives

Although bowel symptoms are often predominant, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients can have several oral manifestations. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of dental caries and periodontal disease in patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) compared to an age and gender-matched control group of patients without IBD.

Material and methods

The DMFT (Decayed, Missing, Filled Teeth) scores and the DPSI (Dutch Periodontal Screening Index) of 229 IBD patients were retrieved from the electronic health record patient database axiUm at the Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA) and were compared to the DMFT scores and DPSI from age and gender-matched non-IBD patients from the same database.

Results

The total DMFT index was significantly higher in the IBD group compared to the control group. When CD and UC were analyzed separately, a statistically significant increased DMFT index was observed in CD patients but not in UC patients. The DPSI did not differ significantly between the IBD and non-IBD groups for each of the sextants. However, in every sextant, IBD patients were more frequently edentulous compared to the control patients.

Conclusion

CD patients have significantly more dental health problems compared to a control group. Periodontal disease did not differ significantly between IBD and non-IBD groups as determined by the DPSI.

Clinical relevance

It is important that IBD patients and physicians are instructed about the correlation between their disease and oral health problems. Strict oral hygiene and preventive dental care such as more frequent checkups should be emphasized by dental clinicians.
An evaluation of the formalised AcciMap approach for accident analysis in healthcare
Authors: Igene Oseghale Osezua , Johnson Christopher W. , Long Jenny
Published: February 2021

This paper presents a field workshop organised by the Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS) focusing on the evaluation of the formalised AcciMap approach by patient safety practitioners of the National Health Service (NHS). Participants who were experienced in incident analysis relating to patient safety and risk management across different NHS boards but had no prior knowledge using the AcciMap approach were recruited for a case study analysis (Wrong Patient) (Chassin and Becher in Ann Intern Med 136:826–833, 2002). They were subsequently divided into three teams after introduction and training, where each team performed an independent case analysis. AcciMap outcomes produced indicated both similar and varying contributing factors identified by each team. This was also reflected in their formulation of safety recommendations. Their findings were then compared with each other (reliability) and with external review (validity). Based on results obtained from the survey instrument distributed after the exercise and focus discussions, the AcciMap approach was generally perceived as intuitive and a potentially relevant toolkit for incident investigations. However, questions were raised particularly regarding the usability (ease of use) in conducting analyses compared RCA techniques.
Proteomics signature of autoimmune atrophic gastritis: towards a link with gastric cancer
Authors: Repetto Ombretta , De Re Valli , Giuffrida Paolo , Lenti Marco Vincenzo , Magris Raffaella , Venerito Marino , Steffan Agostino , Di Sabatino Antonio , Cannizzaro Renato
Published: February 2021

Background

Autoimmune atrophic gastritis (AAG) is a chronic disease that can progress to gastric cancer (GC). To better understand AAG pathology, this proteomics study investigated gastric proteins whose expression levels are altered in this disease and also in GC.

Methods

Using two-dimensional difference gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE), we compared protein maps of gastric corpus biopsies from AAG patients and controls. Differentially abundant spots (|fold change|≥ 1.5,P < 0.01) were selected and identified by LC–MS/MS. The spots were further assessed in gastric antrum biopsies from AAG patients (without and withHelicobacter pyloriinfection) and from GC patients and unaffected first-degree relatives of GC patients.

Results

2D-DIGE identified 67 differentially abundant spots, with 28 more and 39 less abundant in AAG-corpus than controls. LC–MS/MS identified these as 53 distinct proteins. The most significant (adjustedP < 0.01) biological process associated with the less abundant proteins was “tricarboxylic acid cycle”. Of the 67 spots, 57 were similarly differentially abundant in AAG-antrum biopsies irrespective ofH. pyloriinfection status. The differential abundance was also observed in GC biopsies for 14 of 28 more abundant and 35 of 39 less abundant spots, and in normal gastric biopsies of relatives of GC patients for 6 and 25 spots, respectively. Immunoblotting confirmed the different expression levels of two more abundant proteins (PDIA3, GSTPgene products) and four less abundant proteins (ATP5F1A, PGA3, SDHB, PGC).

Conclusion

This study identified a proteomics signature of AAG. Many differential proteins were shared by GC and may be involved in the progression of AAG to GC.
Correction to: Endoscopic versus stereotactic biopsies of intracranial lesions involving the ventricles
Authors: Birski Marcin , Furtak Jacek , Krystkiewicz Kamil , Birska Julita , Zielinska Karolina , Sokal Paweł , Rusinek Marcin , Paczkowski Dariusz , Szylberg Lukasz , Harat Marek
Published: February 2021

A correction to this paper has been published: 10.1007/s10143-021-01497-2
Circular economy in the construction sector: advancing environmental performance through systemic and holistic thinking
Authors: Sparrevik Magnus , de Boer Luitzen , Michelsen Ottar , Skaar Christofer , Knudson Haley , Fet Annik Magerholm
Published: February 2021

The construction sector is progressively becoming more circular by reducing waste, re-using building materials and adopting regenerative solutions for energy production and biodiversity protection. The implications of circularity on construction activities are complex and require the careful evaluation of impacts to select the appropriate path forward. Evaluations of circular solutions and their environmental effectiveness are often performed based on various types of life cycle-based impact assessments. This paper uses systemic thinking to map and evaluate different impact assessment methodologies and their implications for a shift to more circular solutions. The following systemic levels are used to group the methodologies: product (material life cycle declarations and building assessments), organisation (certification and management schemes) and system (policies, standards and regulations). The results confirm that circular economy is integrated at all levels. However, development and structure are not coordinated or governed unidirectionally, but rather occur simultaneously at different levels. This recursive structure is positive if the methods are applied in the correct context, thus providing both autonomy and cohesion in decision making. Methods at lower systemic levels may then improve production processes and stimulate the market to create circular and innovative building solutions, whereas methods at higher systemic levels can be used, for example, by real estate builders, trade organisations and governments to create incentives for circular development and innovation in a broader perspective. Use of the performance methods correctly within an actor network is therefore crucial for successful and effective implementation of circular economy in the construction sector.
Precision Thermal Treatments, Atom Probe Characterization, and Modeling to Describe the Fe-Cr Metastable Miscibility Gap
Authors: Dahlström Alexander , Danoix Frederic , Hedström Peter , Odqvist Joakim , Selleby Malin , Zapolsky Helena
Published: February 2021

The Fe-Cr metastable miscibility gap has been studied by high-precision thermal treatments, Vickers micro-hardness (HV) measurements, and atom probe tomography (APT). Thermodynamic modeling further supplements the experimental work. The results obtained show that recent thermodynamic descriptions of the metastable miscibility gap found in literature generally overestimates the consolute temperature. We can show that the source of ambiguity in previous studies is most likely a lack of clear distinction between Cr-Cr clustering and

$$ \alpha^{\prime} $$

α
′

formation. This distinction is here made by APT results, and it leads to a determined consolute temperature of 580 ± 1 °C for Fe0.50Cr0.50. The revised thermodynamic modeling of the metastable miscibility gap captures the experimental results and is consistent with the overall picture from the Fe-Cr data in the literature.

Graphic Abstract
Predictors of Postprandial Hypoglycemia After Gastric Bypass Surgery: a Retrospective Case-Control Study
Authors: Zweck Elric , Hepprich Matthias , Donath Marc Y.
Published: February 2021

Background

Postprandial hypoglycemia after bariatric surgery is an exigent disorder, often impacting the quality of life. Distinguishing clinically relevant hypoglycemic episodes from symptoms of other origin can be challenging. Diagnosis is demanding and often requires an extensive testing such as prolonged glucose tolerance or mixed-meal test. Therefore, we investigated whether baseline parameters of patients after gastric bypass with suspected hypoglycemia can predict the diagnosis.

Methods

We analyzed data from 35 patients after gastric bypass with suspected postprandial hypoglycemia and performed a standardized mixed-meal test. Hypoglycemia was defined by the appearance of typical symptoms, low plasma glucose, and relief of symptoms following glucose administration. Parameters that differed in patients with and without hypoglycemia during MMT were identified and evaluated for predictive precision using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) areas under the curve (AUC).

Results

Out of 35 patients, 19 (54%) developed symptomatic hypoglycemia as a result of exaggerated insulin and C-peptide release in response to the mixed-meal. Hypoglycemic patients exhibited lower glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and higher absolute and relative weight loss from pre-surgery to study date. HbA1c and absolute weight loss alone could achieve acceptable AUCs in ROC analyses (0.76 and 0.72, respectively) but a combined score of absolute weight loss divided by HbA1c (0.78) achieved the best AUC.

Conclusions

HbA1c and weight loss differed in patients with and without symptomatic hypoglycemia during mixed-meal test. These baseline parameters could be used for screening of postprandial hypoglycemia in patients after gastric bypass and may facilitate the selection of patients requiring further evaluation.

Graphical abstract