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Treatment of bone fractures are standardized according to the AO classification, which mainly refers to the mechanical stabilization required in a given situation but neglect individual differences due to patient's healing potential or accompanying diseases. Specially in elderly or immune-compromised patients, the complexity of individual constrains on a biological as well as mechanical level are hard to account for. Here, we introduce a novel framework that allows to predict bone regeneration outcome using combined proteomic and mechanical analyses in a computer model. The framework uses Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) software to link protein changes to alterations in biological processes and integrates these in an Agent-Based Model (ABM) of bone regeneration. This combined framework allows to predict bone formation and the potential of an individual to heal a given fracture setting. The performance of the framework was evaluated by replicating the experimental setup of a mouse femur fracture stabilized with an intramedullary pin. The model was informed by serum derived proteomics data. The tissue formation patterns were compared against experimental data based on x-ray and histology images. The results indicate the framework potential in predicting an individual's bone formation potential and hold promise as a concept to enable personalized bone healing predictions for a chosen fracture fixation. [Display omitted] • OMIBONE combines proteomics and mechanics for personalized bone healing prediction. • OMIBONE predicts bone regeneration and endochondral ossification in mice fractures. • IPA's z-score guides cellular activities and predicts bone healing outcomes in OMIBONE. • Proteomics-based OMIBONE predicts impaired bone healing in disease-like conditions. • OMIBONE's bone healing predictions were validated against experimental data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wall-to-wall information about the state and change of vegetation is needed in many ecological applications, such as the monitoring of large conservation areas. In support of this task, remote sensing can provide valuable information that is complementary to the results from field work. Remote sensing is also well suited for change detection, but the question arises how a rate of change can be expressed in a generalized and objective way that allows comparisons between different areas. We think that true comparability can hardly be achieved by using conventional vegetation classification approaches, which are not transferable if they take account of the individuality of areas. To reach such comparability, an approach would be needed that combines generality with flexibility to adapt to local conditions. Therefore, we propose that the local vegetation is broken down into basic strategy types as proposed by Phil Grime in 1974 . He observed general rules in the occurrence of three general plant strategies: competitive ability (C), stress tolerance (S), and ruderal strategy (R). Our research question is whether these strategy types can be used to derive functional signatures of landscapes as a basis for comparison between conservation areas. We used the CSR concept to map plant strategies in a heath landscape based on remote sensing data. Average Grime CSR values of vegetation samples were regressed against airborne hyperspectral imagery, resulting in spatial representations of C, S, and R (val. r 2 of 0.55, 0.59, and 0.28, respectively). Based on this continuous information we created functional signatures for two subareas of the study site, the ‘CSR-fingerprints’. We found clear differences in the CSR signatures of different parts of the investigated area. We think that similar differences in time can also be assessed using the same approach. This could provide a simple but powerful expression of the state of vegetation that would be comparable across regions and time. We therefore assume that the method is suitable for comparative studies with a focus on vegetation functioning. While it does not explicitly take into account differences in species composition, it can also work as an early warning system with follow-up investigations in areas subjected to change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brazilian electricity production is subject to considerable hydrological risks due to a large share of hydropower production. A long drought has caused a crisis in the electricity system in 2014 implying high operational costs and a high amount of carbon-intensive power production. A further expansion of the Brazilian electricity system is therefore necessary to guarantee security of supply, in particular when considering the projected growth in demand. We assess how high shares of renewable electricity production can be maintained in the Brazilian system, while reducing hydrological risks. We focus on a long-term perspective and simulate 36 years of renewable power production from meteorological data, assessing the statistical characteristics of different portfolios and, using an optimization model, balancing monthly supply and demand in different technological portfolios. The uncertainty in the operation of that portfolio is compared to a hydro-only scenario. Results indicate that adding both, solar PV and wind to the system, will decrease the need for thermal power backup and the risk of loss of load, as total variability of renewable supply decreases significantly in comparison to a scenario that adds only hydropower to the system. Solar PV has a slight advantage over wind power in decreasing supply risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A high share of Brazilian power generation comes from hydropower sources and a further expansion of power generation is necessary due to high growth rates in electricity demand. As an alternative to the expansion of hydropower which shows high seasonal and annual variability with risks of load shedding due to droughts, windpower production may be increased. We assess the variability of potential windpower plants in the four most important windpower producing states Ceará (CE), Rio Grande do Norte (RN), Bahia (BA) and Rio Grande do Sul (RS) in comparison to adding new hydropower capacities in the North region. We assess seasonality and long-term deviations from seasonal production patterns. For that purpose, time series of windpower production from wind speeds derived from measurements and two global climate reanalysis models (NCAR and ECMWF) are generated and validated. Our results show that seasonal variability of windpower generation in the North-Eastern states is anticyclical to hydrological seasonality in the South-East, North-East, and North region of Brazil. Deviations of simulated windpower production from the monthly means are less correlated with current hydropower production than deviations of potential new hydropower projects. Adding windpower instead of hydropower to the system decreases significantly the risk of long periods of very low resource availability. The states Bahia and Rio Grande do Sul perform best with respect to that measure. Our validation procedure shows that ECMWF data may be the best source of long-term wind time series as it better reproduces ground measurements than NCAR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brazil has to expand its power generation capacities due to significant projected growth of demand. The government aims at adding hydropower capacities in North–Brazil, additional to wind and thermal power generation. However, new hydropower may affect environmentally and socially sensitive areas in the Amazon region negatively while thermal power generation produces greenhouse gas emissions. We therefore assess how future greenhouse gas emissions from electricity production in Brazil can be minimized by optimizing the daily dispatch of photovoltaic (PV), wind, thermal, and hydropower plants. Using a simulation model, we additionally assess the risk of loss of load. Results indicate that at doubled demand in comparison to 2013, only 2% of power production has to be provided by thermal power. Existing reservoirs of hydropower are sufficient to balance variations in renewable electricity supply at an optimal mix of around 37% of PV, 9% of wind, and 50% of hydropower generation. In a hydro-thermal only scenario, the risk of deficit increases tenfold, and thermal power production four-fold. A sensitivity analysis shows that the choice of meteorological data sets used for simulating renewable production affects the choice of locations for PV and wind power plants, but does not significantly change the mix of technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The declaration of 2014–2024 as the Decade of Sustainable Energy for All has catalyzed actions towards achieving universal electricity access. The high costs of building electric infrastructure are a major impediment to improved access, making stand-alone photovoltaic (PV) systems an attractive solution in remote areas. Here, we analyze the cost-effective electrification solution for Kenya comparing grid extension with stand-alone PV systems. We use micro-data from a national household survey to estimate electricity demand for households that are within reach of electricity infrastructure and to predict latent demand in unconnected households. These regional demands are used in a spatially explicit supply model to seek for a least cost electrification solution. Our results suggest that decentralized PV systems can make an important contribution in areas, with low demand and high connection costs. We find that up to 17% of the population can be reached cost-effectively by off-grid PV systems till 2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] What-if-scenario calculations of EU new car portfolio changes. [•] Electric drive vehicles can lower the cost for attaining the EU emission targets. [•] Incentives for consumers needed to foster electric drive vehicle. [•] Cost burden can vary significantly per segment, depending on portfolio shifts. [•] Electric drive vehicles can lead to higher well-to-wheel emissions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Bioenergy is one way of achieving the indicative target of 10% renewable energy in the transportation sector outlined in the EU Directive 2009/28/EC. This article assesses the consequences of increasing the use of bioenergy for road transportation on land use, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and fossil fuel substitution. Different technologies, including first and second generation fuels and electric cars fuelled by bioelectricity are assessed in relation to existing bioenergy uses for heat and power production. The article applies a spatially explicit energy system model that is coupled with a land use optimization model to allow assessing impacts of increased biomass utilization for energy production on land use in agriculture and forest wood harvests. Uncertainty is explicitly assessed with Monte-Carlo simulations of model parameters. Results indicate that electric mobility could save GHG emissions without causing a significant increase in domestic land use for energy crop production. Costs of electric cars are still prohibitive. Second generation biofuels are more effective in producing fuels than first generation ethanol. However, competition with power and heat production from ligno-cellulosic feedstock causes an increase in GHG emissions when introducing second generation fuels in comparison to a baseline scenario. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Among dietary components, conjugated linoleic acids (CLAs) have attracted considerable attention as weight loss supplements in the Western world because they reduce fat stores and increase muscle mass. However, a number of adverse effects are also ascribed to the intake of CLAs such as aggravation of insulin resistance and the risk of developing diabetes. However, the mechanisms accounting for the effects of CLAs on glucose homeostasis are incompletely understood. Herein we provide evidence that CLAs specifically activate the cell surface receptor FFA1, an emerging therapeutic target to treat type 2 diabetes. Using different recombinant cellular systems engineered to stably express FFA1 and a set of diverse functional assays including the novel, label-free non-invasive dynamic mass redistribution technology (Corning® Epic® biosensor), both CLA isomers cis-9, trans-il-CLA and trans-lO, cis-12-CLA were found to activate FFA1 in vitro at concentrations sufficient to also account for FFA1 activation in vivo. Each CLA isomer mark- edly increased glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in insu- un-producing INS-1E cells that endogenously express FFA1 and in primary pancreatic β-cells of wild type but not FFA1-/- knock-out mice. Our findings establish a clear mechanistic link between CLAs and insulin production and identify the cell surface receptor FFA1 as a molecular target for CLAs, explaining their acute stimulatory effects on insutin secretion in vivo. CLAs are also revealed as insulinotropic components in widely used nutraceuticals, a finding with significant implication for development of FFA1 modulators to treat type 2 diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Free fatty acid receptor 2 (FFA2; GPR43) is a G protein-coupled seven-transmembrane receptor for short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that is implicated in inflammatory and metabolic disorders. The SCFA propionate has close to optimal ligand efficiency for FFA2 and can hence be considered as highly potent given its size. Propionate, however, does not discriminate between FFA2 and the closely related receptor FFA3 (GPR41). To identify FFA2-selective ligands and understand the molecular basis for FFA2 selectivity, a targeted library of small carboxylic acids was examined using holistic, label-free dynamic mass redistribution technology for primary screening and the receptor-proximal G protein [35S]guanosine 5′-(3-O-thio)triphosphate activation, inositol phosphate, and cAMP accumulation assays for hit confirmation. Structure-activity relationship analysis allowed formulation of a general rule to predict selectivity for small carboxylic acids at the orthosteric binding site where ligands with substituted sp3-hybridized a-carbons preferentially activate FFA3, whereas ligands with sp²- or sp-hybridized α-carbons prefer FFA2. The orthosteric binding mode was verified by site-directed mutagenesis: replacement of orthosteric site arginine residues by alanine in FFA2 prevented ligand binding, and molecular modeling predicted the detailed mode of binding. Based on this, selective mutation of three residues to their non-conserved counterparts in FFA3 was sufficient to transfer FFA3 selectivity to FFA2. Thus, selective activation of FFA2 via the orthosteric site is achievable with rather small ligands, a finding with significant implications for the rational design of therapeutic compounds selectively targeting the SCFA receptors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Bioenergy is regarded as cost-effective option to reduce CO2 emissions from fossil fuel combustion. Among newly developed biomass conversion technologies are biomass integrated gas combined cycle plants (BIGCC) as well as ethanol and methanol production based on woody biomass feedstock. Furthermore, bioenergy systems with carbon capture and storage (BECS) may allow negative CO2 emissions in the future. It is still not clear which woody biomass conversion technology reduces fossil CO2 emissions at least costs. This article presents a spatial explicit optimization model that assesses new biomass conversion technologies for fuel, heat and power production and compares them with woody pellets for heat production in Austria. The spatial distributions of biomass supply and energy demand have significant impact on the total supply costs of alternative bioenergy systems and are therefore included in the modeling process. Many model parameters that describe new bioenergy technologies are uncertain, because some of the technologies are not commercially developed yet. Monte-Carlo simulations are used to analyze model parameter uncertainty. Model results show that heat production with pellets is to be preferred over BIGCC at low carbon prices while BECS is cost-effective to reduce CO2 emissions at higher carbon prices. Fuel production – methanol as well as ethanol – reduces less CO2 emissions and is therefore less cost-effective in reducing CO2 emissions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Background: Homocysteine (HCY) has recently been linked to fragility fractures. Moreover, HCY activates osteoclasts (OC). Elevated HCY concentrations are mainly caused by folate, vitamin B12 (B12) and B6 (B6) deficiencies. We hypothesized that folate, B12 and B6 deficiencies stimulate OC activity. Materials and methods: OC were cultured from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (10 healthy male donors, 34±5 years) for 20 days. Culture medium was conditioned with decreasing concentrations of folate, B12 and B6 (in combination or variation of only one vitamin) starting at physiologic concentrations. Moreover, we tested increasing concentrations of HCY. OC activity was measured by dentine resorption activity (DRA), tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) and cathepsin K (CK) activity. Results: The combined reduction of folate, B12 and B6 stimulated DRA up to 211% (p <0.001). This observation was confirmed by TRAP (maximum increase 24%, p <0.001) and CK (maximum increase 24%, p <0.001). Reduction of only one vitamin stimulated DRA up to 250% (folate: maximum increase 248%, p <0.018; B12: maximum increase 252%, p <0.001, B6: maximum increase 247%, p <0.001). However, only for folate this effect could be confirmed by TRAP (maximum increase 33%, p <0.001). HCY stimulated DRA up to 395% (p <0.001). TRAP (maximum increase 49%, p <0.001) and CK analyses confirmed this observation (maximum increase 50%, p <0.001). Conclusion: Our results demonstrate a strong stimulatory effect of low concentrations of folate, B12 and B6 on OC activity, suggesting a mechanistic role of low B-vitamin concentrations for bone degradation. Consequently, OC stimulation by low folate, B12 and B6 concentrations could be an important adverse factor for bone health. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Compensatory sweating is noted frequently after sympathectomy and may be difficult to control in some patients. This prospective trial was projected to measure the impact of limited denervation on compensatory sweating while performing endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy. Methods: One hundred seventy-eight patients (127 female and 51 male) with severe primary hyperhidrosis unsuccessfully treated by conservative means entered the study. Group A was treated with sympathectomy from T2 to T4. In group B sympathectomy was performed from T3 to T5. Physical condition was measured after 1, 6, and 24 months by means of the SF-36 Health Survey Test. Results: Evaluation rate was 94.9%. Horner’s syndrome was not detected, recurrence rate was 0.6%, and rate of persistent pneumothorax was 2.3%. Compensatory sweating was reported with 17.1% in group A and diminished to 4.9% in group B. Gustatory sweating was comparable in both groups (4.3% versus 4.9%). Satisfaction rate was 97% in patients with palmar hyperhidrosis, 95% for axillary hyperhidrosis, and 87% for facial hyperhidrosis. Discomfort originating from compensatory sweating was less than symptoms from primary hyperhidrosis 24 months after endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy in more than 90%. Only 7.1% of the entire group was not satisfied. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that limiting denervation beyond T2 ganglion offers good clinical results in axillary as well as palmar hyperhidrosis and may reduce the risk for compensatory sweating. In women, reduction was as high as 75% and in men, near 50%. Our impression is that severe compensatory sweating and the majority of stellate ganglion lesions occur as a result of starting sympathectomy at level T2. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

An abstract of the article "Whole-heart first-pass myocardial perfusion imaging with non-rigid respiratory motion correction," by Johannes Schmidt and colleagues is presented.

Heteroatom-doped carbonaceous materials have garnered significant attention in the fields of catalysis, energy conversion and storage, and pollutant recovery. However, accurately determining the doping extent remains a delicate task in a number of cases (e.g. phosphorus, boron, selenium), often leading to conflicting data from different characterization techniques. Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) spectroscopy stands out as a routine technique; nevertheless, reliable results necessitate appropriate digestion protocols. In this study, we demonstrate on a series of P-doped samples, with P contents ranging from 2 to 14 wt% , how the choice of acids (HCl, HNO 3 , H 2 SO 4) and oxidizing compounds (H 2 O 2) for digestion drastically affects the results, with variations of up to 620 %. Though commonly used, aqua regia proved highly unreliable, particularly for P-doped carbon nitrides, while piranha solution appeared as a promising alternative, with a precision, i.e. a coefficient of variation, ca. 5.0 %. The contents deriving from piranha solution digestion were subsequently comforted through X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy. We finally put in perspective the use of ICP in terms of sensitivity and accuracy with the main analytical techniques employed in literature to determine the element composition of carbon materials. [Display omitted] • Most experimental sections do not report the digestion protocols for carbons. • Aqua regia and piranha solution were compared for open vessel digestion. • Piranha solution digested all tested heteroatom-doped carbons except carbon black. • Peroxydisulfate in H 2 SO 4 can digest carbon nitride. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantifying the resource use and cost of antimicrobial resistance establishes the magnitude of the problem and drives action. Assessment of resource use and cost associated with infections with six key drug-resistant pathogens in Europe. A systematic review and Bayesian meta-analysis. MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), Econlit databases, and grey literature for the period 1 January 1990, to 21 June 2022. Resource use and cost outcomes (including excess length of stay, overall costs, and other excess in or outpatient costs) were compared between patients with defined antibiotic-resistant infections caused by carbapenem-resistant (CR) Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii , CR or third-generation cephalosporin Escherichia coli (3GCREC) and Klebsiella pneumoniae , methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus , and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium , and patients with drug-susceptible or no infection. All patients diagnosed with drug-resistant bloodstream infections (BSIs). NA. An adapted version of the Joanna Briggs Institute assessment tool, incorporating case-control, cohort, and economic assessment frameworks. Hierarchical Bayesian meta-analyses were used to assess pathogen-specific resource use estimates. Of 5969 screened publications, 37 were included in the review. Data were sparse and heterogeneous. Most studies estimated the attributable burden by, comparing resistant and susceptible pathogens (32/37). Four studies analysed the excess cost of hospitalization attributable to 3GCREC BSIs, ranging from -€ 2465.50 to € 6402.81. Eight studies presented adjusted excess length of hospital stay estimates for methicillin-resistant S. aureus and 3GCREC BSIs (4 each) allowing for Bayesian hierarchical analysis, estimating means of 1.26 (95% credible interval [CrI], −0.72 to 4.17) and 1.78 (95% CrI, −0.02 to 3.38) days, respectively. Evidence on most cost and resource use outcomes and across most pathogen-resistance combinations was severely lacking. Given the importance of this evidence for rational policymaking, further research is urgently needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To prioritize healthcare investments, ranking of infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria should be based on accurate incidence data. We performed a systematic review to estimate frequency measures of antimicrobial resistance for six key bacteria causing bloodstream infections (BSI) in European countries. We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Embase databases, and the ECRAID-Base Epidemiological-Network platform. We included studies and surveillance systems assessing resistance-percentage, prevalence, or incidence-density of BSI because of carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa , Acinetobacter baumannii , Klebsiella pneumoniae , and Escherichia coli , third-generation cephalosporins-resistant E. coli and K. pneumoniae , vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium , and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Reviewers independently assessed published data and evaluated study quality with the modified Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tool. Pooled estimates were determined using random effects meta-analysis. Consistency of data was assessed using random effects meta-regression (Wald test, p > 0.05). We identified 271 studies and 52 surveillance systems from 32 European countries. Forty-five studies (16%) reported on BSI, including 180 frequency measures most commonly as resistance-percentage (88, 48.9%). Among 309 frequency measures extracted from 24 (46%) surveillance systems, 278 (89%) were resistance-percentages. Frequency measures of methicillin-resistant S. aureus and vancomycin-resistant E. faecium BSI were more frequently reported from Southern Europe and Western Europe (80%), whereas carbapenem-resistant P. aeruginosa BSI from Northern Europe and Western Europe (88%). Highest resistance-percentages were detected for carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii (66% in Central Eastern Europe) and carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae (62.8% in Southern Europe). Pooled estimates showed lower resistance-percentages in community versus healthcare-associated infections and in children versus adults. Estimates from studies and surveillance systems were mostly consistent among European regions. The included data was of medium quality. Pathogen-specific frequency measures of antimicrobial resistance in BSI are insufficient to inform antibiotic stewardship and research and development strategies. Improving data collection and standardization of frequency measures is urgently needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Differentiating thermokarst basin sediments with respect to the involved processes and environmental conditions is an important tool to understand permafrost landscape dynamics and scenarios and future trajectories in a warming Arctic and Subarctic. Thermokarst basin deposits have complex sedimentary structures due to the variability of Yedoma source sediments, reworking during the Late Glacial to Holocene climate changes, and different stages of thermokarst history. Here we reconstruct the dynamic growth of thermokarst lakes and basins and related changes of depositional conditions preserved in sediment sequences using a combination of biogeochemical data and robust grain-size endmember analysis (rEMMA). This multi-proxy approach is used on 10 sediment cores (each 300–400 cm deep) from two key thermokarst sites to distinguish four time slices that describe the Holocene thermokarst (lake) basin evolution in Central Yakutia (CY). Biogeochemical proxies and rEMMA reveal fine-grained sedimentation with rather high lake levels and/or reducing conditions, and coarse-grained sedimentation with rather shallow lake levels and/or oxidizing (i.e. terrestrial) conditions in relation to distal and proximal depositional and post-sedimentary conditions. Statistical analysis suggests that the biogeochemical parameters are almost independent of thermokarst deposit sedimentology. Thus, the biogeochemical parameters are considered as signals of secondary (post-sedimentary) reworking. The rEMMA results are clearly reflecting grain-size variations and depositional conditions. This indicates small-scale varying depositional environments, frequently changing lake levels, and predominantly lateral expansion at the edges of rapidly growing small thermokarst lakes and basins. These small bodies finally coalesced, forming the large thermokarst basins we see today in CY. Considering previous paleoenvironmental reconstructions in Siberia, we show the initiation of thaw and subsidence during the Late Glacial to Holocene transition between about 11 and 9 cal kyrs BP, intensive and extensive thermokarst activity for the Holocene Thermal Maximum (HTM) at about 7 to 5 cal kyrs BP, severely fluctuating water levels and further lateral basin growth between 3.5 cal kyrs BP and 1.5 cal kyrs BP, and the cessation of thermokarst activity and extensive frost-induced processes (i.e. permafrost aggradation) after about 1.5 cal kyrs BP. However, gradual permafrost warming over recent decades, in addition to human impacts, has led to renewed high rates of subsidence and abrupt, rapid CY thermokarst processes. • Small thermokarst lakes and basins grew rapidly during the Holocene Thermal Maximum. • Short-term phases of forcing climate lead to very active thermokarst processes. • Endmember analysis reveals different depositional environments in growing lakes. • Distal and proximal depositional and post-sedimentary conditions are differentiated. • Sedimentological and biogeochemical characteristics are weakly correlated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long term time series of variable renewable energy (VRE) generation and electricity demand (load) provide important insights into the feasibility of fully renewable power systems. The coverage of energy statistics is usually too short or the temporal resolution too low to study effects related to interannual variability or the impact of climatic extreme events. We use time series simulated from climate data to assess the frequency, duration, and magnitude of extreme residual load events of two fully renewable power scenarios with a share of VRE generation (wind and solar PV) of about 50% for the case of Sweden. We define residual load as load – wind – PV – nuclear generation. Extreme residual load events are events that exceed the balancing or ramping capacities of the current power system. For our analysis, we use 29 years of simulated river runoff and wind and PV generation. Hourly load is derived from MERRA reanalysis temperature data by applying statistical models. Those time series are used along with historic capacity and ramping restrictions of hydro and thermal power plants in an optimization model to minimize extreme residual load events. Our analysis shows that even highly flexible power systems, as the Swedish one, are affected by climatic extreme events if they increase their VRE shares. Replacing current nuclear power capacities by wind power results on average in three extreme residual load events per year that exceed the current power system's flexibility. Additional PV generation capacities instead of wind increase the number of extreme residual load events by about 4%, as most events occur during the winter month when solar generation is close to zero and thus not able to counterbalance low wind events. Contrarily, overproduction and the need to curtail VRE generation become more pressing with higher shares of PV. In the discussion we highlight measures that could provide additional balancing capabilities to cope with the more frequent and severe residual load events in a fully renewable power system with high shares of VRE generation. • Load during winter is negatively correlated with wind power and natural river runoff. • Annual residual loads vary between 51 and 72 TWh in a fully renewable power system. • Two out of three years exceed the balancing capacities of the current power system. • The longest extreme residual load event lasts 18 h with a maximum lack of capacity of 4 GW. • Additional flexibility measures can avoid loss of load events in fully renewable power systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid uptake of renewable energy technologies in recent decades has increased the demand of energy researchers, policymakers and energy planners for reliable data on the spatial distribution of their costs and potentials. For onshore wind energy this has resulted in an active research field devoted to analysing these resources for regions, countries or globally. A particular thread of this research attempts to go beyond purely technical or spatial restrictions and determine the realistic, feasible or actual potential for wind energy. Motivated by these developments, this paper reviews methods and assumptions for analysing geographical, technical, economic and, finally, feasible onshore wind potentials. We address each of these potentials in turn, including aspects related to land eligibility criteria, energy meteorology, and technical developments of wind turbine characteristics such as power density, specific rotor power and spacing aspects. Economic aspects of potential assessments are central to future deployment and are discussed on a turbine and system level covering levelized costs depending on locations, and the system integration costs which are often overlooked in such analyses. Non-technical approaches include scenicness assessments of the landscape, constraints due to regulation or public opposition, expert and stakeholder workshops, willingness to pay/accept elicitations and socioeconomic cost-benefit studies. For each of these different potential estimations, the state of the art is critically discussed, with an attempt to derive best practice recommendations and highlight avenues for future research. • Review of over 300 studies on large-scale onshore wind potential assessments. • Analysis of geographic, technical, economic and 'feasible' potentials. • Identify weaknesses in methods and best practice examples. • Methods could improve transparency, validation, and sensitivities. • Further interdisciplinary research required on 'feasible' potentials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple thermal treatment of guanine at temperatures ranging from 600 to 700 °C leads to C 1 N 1 condensates with unprecedented CO 2 /N 2 selectivity when compared to other carbonaceous solid sorbents. Increasing the surface area of the CN condensates in the presence of ZnCl 2 salt melts enhances the amount of CO 2 adsorbed while preserving the high selectivity values and C 1 N 1 structure. Results indicate that these new materials show a sorption mechanism a step closer to that of natural CO 2 caption proteins and based on metal free structural cryptopores. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A wind turbine's power curve relates its power production to the wind speed it experiences. The typical shape of a power curve is well known and has been studied extensively. However, power curves of individual turbine models can vary widely from one another. This is due to both the technical features of the turbine (power density, cut-in and cut-out speeds, limits on rotational speed and aerodynamic efficiency), and environmental factors (turbulence intensity, air density, wind shear and wind veer). Data on individual power curves are often proprietary and only available through commercial databases. We therefore develop an open-source model for pitch regulated horizontal axis wind turbine which can generate the power curve of any turbine, adapted to the specific conditions of any site. This can employ one of six parametric models advanced in the literature, and accounts for the eleven variables mentioned above. The model is described, the impact of each technical and environmental feature is examined, and it is then validated against the manufacturer power curves of 91 turbine models. Versions of the model are made available in MATLAB, R and Python code for the community. • A generic power curve model dependent on main turbine characteristics is proposed. • Main environmental parameters are considered. • A statistical analysis of the model inputs is proposed. • The modelled output is validated against numerous manufacturer power curves. • Versions of the model are made available in MATLAB, R and Python. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• MenACWY-CRM use is not approved in pregnant women, inadvertent exposure can occur. • After vaccination, the prevalence of spontaneous abortions was 18.2% • Among live born infants, 14.5% were born preterm and 9.1% had a low birthweight. • There were 2 major congenital malformations, one terminated by induced abortion. • Prevalence of pregnancy and birth outcomes were comparable to US background rates. Although the meningococcal conjugate MenACWY-CRM vaccine is not approved for use in pregnant women, unintentional exposure during pregnancy can occur, especially during early pregnancy among women of child-bearing age. This study provides safety information about inadvertent MenACWY-CRM vaccination during pregnancy. The evaluated population consisted of pregnant female members of Kaiser Permanente Southern California who inadvertently received MenACWY-CRM at 11–21 years of age during 09/30/2011-06/30/2013 within 28 days prior to conception or during pregnancy. Chart abstraction was conducted to identify pregnancy and birth outcomes, including spontaneous and induced abortions, preterm births, low weight births, and major congenital malformations (MCMs). There were 92 women who received MenACWY-CRM during the pregnancy exposure period, mainly during the first trimester (76.1%). Hispanics represented the largest race/ethnicity category (68.5%). Among the known pregnancy outcomes (n = 66; excluding induced abortions and unknown pregnancy outcomes), the prevalence of spontaneous abortions was 18.2% (n = 12). Among live born infants (n = 55; from 54 pregnancies), 14.5% (n = 8) were born preterm (<37 weeks gestation) and 9.1% (n = 5) had a low birthweight (<2500 g). The prevalence rate of MCMs among live born infants (n = 55) was 1.8% (n = 1). This study provides baseline prevalence estimates of spontaneous abortions, preterm births, low weight births, and MCMs among women inadvertently exposed to MenACWY-CRM during the pregnancy period. These estimates appear to be comparable with U.S. background prevalence estimates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Ordered mesoporous silica materials such as COK-12, analogous to the well-known SBA-15, are characterized by high surface areas and unique features such as defined pore sizes in the meso-size range and high pore ordering. The aim of this work was to prove the washing step and choice of calcination and aging temperature during the COK-12 synthesis as effective tools in tailoring, markedly improving the specific surface area, pore size, and pore volume. By controlling the aging temperature, the pore size was linearly adjusted between 5.7 and 8.1 nm, while preserving the hexagonal ordering of the pores. The synthesized COK-12 powders possess pore volumes and specific surface areas up to 1.23 cm3 g−1 and 860 m2 g−1, respectively, which is markedly higher than what has previously been reported about COK-12. The presented results and the environmentally friendly character of the synthesis will make COK-12 more interesting for future adaption to the industrial processes, for example in catalysis, adsorption, or drug delivery. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Aging, washing, and calcination are effective tools in tailoring COK-12 properties. • COK-12 with remarkably high BET SSA up to 860 m2 g−1 and pore volume up to 1.23 cm3 g−1 • Linear relationship between the aging temperature and pore size could be revealed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ordered mesoporous silica materials are known for their high surface area and highly ordered structure. One of the main advantages of the synthesis of ordered mesoporous silica by soft-templating with amphiphilic molecules is the ability to tailor the mesostructure by using micellar swelling agents. In this context, the addition of hexane and polypropylene glycol (PPG) as micellar swelling agents in the facile room-temperature synthesis of COK-12 was studied to tailor the mesoporous structure of the system. Hexane was used as a micelle expander and as an agent to produce silica mesocellular foams (MCF), resulting in a material with “ink-bottle” pores with a larger diameter than that of the original COK-12, with up to 8.5 nm in cell diameter and 5.3 nm in window diameter. By adding PPG into the synthesis, a shift of the mesostructure of COK-12 from 2D hexagonal to a multilamellar vesicular (MLV) configuration was observed, resulting in the progressive formation of this type of material with increasing concentration of PPG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this manuscript we document a multidisciplinary approach in wetland geoarchaeology for detecting artificial structures in a middle European floodplain. By means of a large set of different prospection methods (cadastral analysis, aerial archaeology, LiDAR, SQUID based magnetic prospection, electrical resistivity tomography, seismic refraction tomography, ground penetrating radar) and a subsequent geoarchaeological drilling campaign we provide an overview about the potentials and limits of the applied methods. Our site-specific aims focus on the Fossa Carolina , Charlemagne's shortcut for linking the Rhine-Main and the Altmühl-Danube inland navigation systems during the Early Middle Ages. Our results show that Altmühl meander loops were quasi stable since Carolingian times and that an Altmühl floodplain-crossing trench of at least 650–700 m was required for linking the Altmühl River with the – archaeological known – southernmost position of the existing Carolingian canal. However, our large set of remote sensing and geophysical prospection tools and the corresponding drilling campaign do not show any evidence for the missing Carolingian trench within the Altmühl floodplain. Our results support the idea that the Carolingian canal was never entirely completed although large parts of the canal were almost finished in the northern sections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper assesses how different levels of geographical disaggregation of wind and photovoltaic energy resources could affect the outcomes of an energy system model by 2020 and 2050. Energy system models used for policy making typically have high technology detail but little spatial detail. However, the generation potential and integration costs of variable renewable energy sources and their time profile of production depend on geographic characteristics and infrastructure in place. For a case study for Austria we generate spatially highly resolved synthetic time series for potential production locations of wind power and PV. There are regional differences in the costs for wind turbines but not for PV. However, they are smaller than the cost reductions induced by technological learning from one modelled decade to the other. The wind availability shows significant regional differences where mainly the differences for summer days and winter nights are important. The solar availability for PV installations is more homogenous. We introduce these wind and PV data into the energy system model JRC-EU-TIMES with different levels of regional disaggregation. Results show that up to the point that the maximum potential is reached disaggregating wind regions significantly affects results causing lower electricity generation from wind and PV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In South Africa, electricity is provided as a public service by municipalities. The combination of (a) rising electricity rates, (b) decreasing photovoltaic technology costs, and (c) a progressive tariff system (under which wealthier households support low tariff rates for indigent residents) leads to incentives for high-income households to cover part of their electricity demand by self-produced photovoltaic (solar) electricity. This development is simulated with hourly load profiles and radiation data, and an optimization model for a case study in Cape Town through the year 2030. Results indicate that the majority of higher-income residents are incentivized to invest in photovoltaic power production by 2020 and additionally use home battery systems by 2028. This leads to a steadily increasing gap between revenues and expenditure needs in the budget of the municipality. The budget gap can be reduced by replacing the energy-based tariff with a revenue-neutral fixed network-connection fee implementation of which is particularly effective in reducing incentives to invest in storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Several energy and agricultural commodities have experienced higher price volatility in recent years. Management of price risks usually leads to additional costs that are often shared and transmitted along the supply chain to the final consumers. Only little information is currently available on how price volatility of woody biomass commodities has developed compared to energy and agricultural commodities in recent years. We compute the historic price volatility of woody biomass commodities using the standard deviation of log returns as well as univariate GARCH models. The results show that the price volatility of several woody biomass commodities has increased in recent years. However, the price volatility of woody biomass is still lower compared to the price volatility of agricultural commodities and fossil fuels. The analysis of factors and linkages provides insights of the current biomass market developments. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The resilience of Neanderthals towards changing climatic and environmental conditions, and especially towards severely cold climates in northern regions of central Europe, is still under debate. One way to address this is to investigate multi-layered occupation in different climatic intervals, using independently-compiled paleoenvironmental and chronological data. Unfortunately, most open-air sites on the northern European Plain lack a robust chronostratigraphy beyond the radiocarbon dating range, thereby often hampering direct links between human occupation and climate. Here we present the results of integrative research at the Middle Paleolithic open-air site of Lichtenberg, Northern Germany, comprising archaeology, luminescence dating, sedimentology, micromorphology, as well as pollen and phytolith analyses. Our findings clearly show Neanderthal presence in temperate, forested environments during the Mid-Eemian Interglacial, MIS 5e and the latest Brörup Interstadial, MIS 5c/GI 22 (Lichtenberg II). For the previously known occupation Lichtenberg I, we revise the chronology from the former early MIS 3 (57 ± 6 ka) to early MIS 4/GS 19 (71.3 ± 7.3 ka), with dominant cold steppe/tundra vegetation. The early MIS 4 occupation suggests that Neanderthals could adjust well to severely cold environments and implies recurring population in the region between MIS 5 and MIS 3. The artefact assemblages differ between the temperate and cold environment occupations regarding size, blank production, typology and tool use. We argue that this distinctness can partially be explained by different site functions and occupation duration, as well as the availability of large and high-quality flint raw material. Raw material availability is in turn governed by changing vegetation cover that hindered or fostered sediment redeposition as a provider of flint from the primary source of the glacial sediments nearby. • Integrative multidisciplinary approach of geo-biosciences and archaeology. • Precise chronology connects Neanderthal occupation to distinct climatic phases. • Neanderthals adapted to changing and also severely cold environments in northern Central Europe. • Variability of tool size, raw material and tool use in response to climate changes. • First numerical dates for early Weichselian interstadials in the type area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]