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This experimental research investigates the effect of different types of environmental information on investor judgment. By examining three experimental cases varying the level of environmental disclosure, we evaluate the investment judgments of professional (Study 1) and private German investors (Study 2). Primarily, we investigate whether traditional, commonly disclosed environmental information affects investor judgments. Furthermore, we explore the effects of linking non-financial reporting elements to quantitative financial measures through the EU taxonomy by adding taxonomy indicators. Specifically, we operationalized the case where companies fall into a category of poor environmental performance by taxonomy classification. We find that only traditional environmental disclosure in combination with standardized taxonomy-aligned information (below average), influences the investment judgment. However, professional investors exhibit a significantly negative response, while private investors show a significantly positive reaction when constraining reporting flexibility through the inclusion of standardized taxonomy measures with poor performance. Consequently, we conclude that the connection between non-financial reporting elements and quantitative standardized financial measures enhances transparency for professional investors. Private investors, on the other hand, reward additional taxonomy-aligned environmental information irrespective of its content. This implies that environmental information generally conveys positive signals to private investors, but uncertainty in investment judgment can be assumed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate adhesive shear bond strength (SBS) on an ultrafine-grained niobium alloy (UFG-Nb) that is a potential dental implant material. SBS of three adhesive systems combined with three composites to UFG-Nb was compared to corresponding SBS to Ti-6Al-4V and to zirconia. Specimens of the substrates UFG-Nb, Ti-6Al-4V and zirconia with plane surfaces were sandblasted with Al2O3, cleaned and dried. Three adhesive systems (Futurabond U, Futurabond M + , Futurabond M + DCA; all VOCO GmbH, Cuxhaven, Germany) were applied each on specimens of each substrate and light cured. One composite (BifixSE, BifixQM, GrandioSO; all VOCO GmbH) was applied and light cured resulting in 27 groups (n = 10) for all substrate-adhesive-composite-combinations. SBS was measured after 24 h of storage. To simulate aging equally prepared specimens underwent 5000 thermocycles before SBS measurement. There was no significant difference in SBS within the non-aged groups. Among the artificially aged groups, GrandioSO-groups showed a greater variance of SBS than the other composites. All significant differences of corresponding UFG-Nb-, Ti-6Al-4V- and zirconia-groups with same adhesive-composite-combination (ACC) were observed between UFG-Nb and zirconia or Ti-6Al-4V and zirconia but never between the two metallic substrates. The similarity between these materials might show in their adhesive bonding behavior. As there were no differences comparing corresponding groups prior to and after artificial aging, it can be concluded that aging does not affect SBS to UFG-Nb, Ti-6Al-4V and zirconia using the tested ACCs. Adhesive bonding of established ACCs to UFG-Nb is possible resulting in SBS comparable to those on Ti-6Al-4V and zirconia surfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cells is a significant therapeutic improvement increasing the prognosis for patients with a variety of hematological malignancies. However, this therapy has also sometimes life-threatening, complications. Therefore, knowledge of the treatment and management of these complications, especially in treatment centers and intensive care units, respectively, is of outstanding importance. This review provides recommendations for the diagnosis, management, and treatment of CAR-T cell-associated complications such as cytokine release syndrome, immune effector cell associated neurotoxicity syndrome, hematotoxicity, hypogammaglobulinemia, and CAR-T cell-induced pseudo-progression amongst others for physicians treating patients with CAR-T cell-associated complications and intensivists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glycolipids are a class of widely studied biosurfactants with excellent applicability in cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations. This class of biosurfactants includes mannosylerythritol lipids (MELs), which have gained particular interest due to their moisturizing and healing activity for dry and damaged human skin, arising from conditions such as eczema. Traditionally, MELs have been produced by growing certain basidiomycetous yeasts on vegetable oils. However, oils are a comparatively expensive substrate, which negatively affects the economic performance of MEL production. In addition to this, vegetable oils significantly complicate the downstream processing required to produce a product with the required purity for most applications. To address these challenges, this study investigated MEL-A production exclusively from hydrophilic carbon sources by Ustilago maydis DSM 4500. By implementing a fed-batch production strategy, maximum MEL-A concentration of 0.87 g/L was achieved from glucose exclusively. Also, adding micronutrients (such as MnSO4) to MEL-A production showed a 24.1% increase in the product titer, implying other metabolites are formed, favoring MEL production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cannabinoid extraction during Cannabis processing produces a wax by-product which is currently underutilised, partially because the composition is poorly understood. This study applied both gas and liquid chromatography methods to characterise the major compounds present in the waxy by-product from commercial Cannabis processing. Two industrial wax by-products (wax A and wax B) were used as the feedstock for the characterisation, differing in both strain of Cannabis used and downstream processing conditions. The main classes quantified in the Cannabis waxes were cannabinoids, n-alkanes, fatty alcohols, fatty acids, sterols, and various terpenoids. The cannabinoid fraction was the most abundant fraction in both waxes, reporting a total fraction of 509.3 mg/g for wax A and 392.6 mg/g for wax B, on a solvent-free basis. For wax A the largest remaining wax compound class was the fatty acids, which reported a concentration of 172.2 mg/g, with linoleic acid being the most abundant at a concentration of 68.47 mg/g. The most abundant wax compound class in wax B was the n-alkanes at a concentration of 54.55 mg/g and the dominant species in that fraction was nonacosane (C29) with a concentration of 24.47 mg/g. It can be concluded that due to the high concentration of cannabinoids remaining in the wax even after processing, and their relative commercial value, recovery of the cannabinoids from the wax could form a potential valorisation application for the underutilised Cannabis wax by-product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wax by-products from commercial Cannabis processing, containing between 41 and 46% (w/w) cannabinoids, are currently underutilized due to lack of research done, and significant value can be added through recovery of the cannabinoids. The cannabinoids are aimed to be recovered via a novel solvent-assisted recrystallization technology, and this study provides a robust solvent screening methodology for recovery of the cannabinoids for this technology. Solvents were screened based on their relative polarity, boiling point temperature, and safety of use. Further criteria such as reactivity toward wax compounds were implemented through evaluation of the Kamlet-Taft parameters of potential solvents. Solubility predictions of the wax in different solvents were done using the Hansen solubility parameters (HSP). The methodology was tested on a set of 73 commonly used solvents identifying five suitable solvents, which were 1,2-dimethoxyethane, 3-pentanone, ethyl acetate, methyl acetate, and methyl tert-butyl ether. The identified solvents were tested for use in recrystallization and were found to be suitable, validating the use of the developed methodology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We developed and validated the Influenza Severity Scale (ISS), a standardized risk assessment for influenza, to estimate and predict the probability of major clinical events in patients with laboratory-confirmed infection. Data from the Canadian Immunization Research Network’s Serious Outcomes Surveillance Network (2011/2012–2018/2019 influenza seasons) enabled the selecting of all laboratory-confirmed influenza patients. A machine learning-based approach then identified variables, generated weighted scores, and evaluated model performance. This study included 12,954 patients with laboratory-confirmed influenza infections. The optimal scale encompassed ten variables: demographic (age and sex), health history (smoking status, chronic pulmonary disease, diabetes mellitus, and influenza vaccination status), clinical presentation (cough, sputum production, and shortness of breath), and function (need for regular support for activities of daily living). As a continuous variable, the scale had an AU-ROC of 0.73 (95% CI, 0.71–0.74). Aggregated scores classified participants into three risk categories: low (ISS < 30; 79.9% sensitivity, 51% specificity), moderate (ISS ≥ 30 but < 50; 54.5% sensitivity, 55.9% specificity), and high (ISS ≥ 50; 51.4% sensitivity, 80.5% specificity). ISS demonstrated a solid ability to identify patients with hospitalized laboratory-confirmed influenza at increased risk for Major Clinical Events, potentially impacting clinical practice and research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biobased volatile fatty acid (VFA) production from anaerobic digestion (AD) using extractive fermentation is a promising approach to control the inhibitory effects of acid accumulation in active digesters while producing a second valuable product stream. Five extractants (tri-n-octylamine, tri-n-butyl phosphate, tri-n-octylphosphine oxide, Aliquat 336 and trihexyl(tetradecyl)phosphonium bis-2,4,4-(trimethylpentyl)phosphinate) in combination with oleyl alcohol, lamp oil or canola oil as diluents were investigated based on (i) extraction capacity, (ii) biocompatibility and (iii) feasibility of VFA back extraction. Liquid–liquid extraction with VFA solutions revealed solvents with the capacity to extract acids within pH ranges suitable for AD. Bench-scale biogas experiments demonstrated that biocompatible extractant-solvent systems allow the co-production of biogas and VFAs while enhancing biogas productivity. Solvents were back-extracted using NaOH(aq) to recover VFAs and regenerate the solvent. The novel methodology implemented here could be considered in the development of pH control strategies for the partial removal of VFAs from AD systems while improving the stability of methane production, promoting resource recovery, integrated waste management, waste reduction and utilisation of renewable energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low activity of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis (HPAA) has been found in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The condition may be related to the reduced attention regulation capacity and/or to comorbid oppositional defiant or conduct disorder (ODD/CD). Sex differences are probable but not sufficiently studied. We analyzed the HPAA activity and sympathetic nervous system reactivity (SR) in children with ADHD while accounting for ADHD symptom presentation, comorbidity, and sex differences. The sample comprised 205 children, 98 (61 boys, 37 girls) with ADHD and 107 (48 boys, 59 girls) healthy controls. DSM-5 phenotypic symptom presentation and comorbid ODD/CD were assessed using clinical interviews. Hair cortisol concentration (HCC) was used to assess the long-term, cumulative activity of the HPAA. SR was assessed via skin conductance response (SCR). For control purposes, comorbid internalizing symptoms and indicators of adverse childhood experiences (ACE) were assessed. Children were medication naive. Boys presenting with predominantly inattentive symptoms (ADHD-I) showed lower HCC than healthy boys. Girls presenting with combined symptoms (ADHD-C) showed higher HCC than did healthy girls (p's < 0.05, sex-by-group interaction, F (2,194) = 4.09, p = 0.018). Boys with ADHD plus ODD/CD showed a blunted SR (p < 0.001, sex-by-group interaction, F (2,172) = 3.08, p = 0.048). Adjustment for ACE indicators led to non-significant differences in HCC but did not affect differences in SR. HCC constitutes an easily assessable, reliable, and valid marker of phenotypic ADHD-related features (i.e. symptom presentation and comorbidity). It indicates more homogenous subgroups of ADHD and might point to specifically involved pathophysiological processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Soluble RANKL (sRANKL) and osteoprotegerin (OPG) are regulators of osteoclast differentiation and activation, but adequate pediatric reference values are lacking. Here we provide LMS (Lambda-Mu-Sigma)-based continuous pediatric reference percentiles for sRANKL, OPG and sRANKL/OPG ratio that will allow calculation of standardized patient z-scores to assess bone modeling in children. Purpose: Soluble receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B ligand (sRANKL) and osteoprotegerin (OPG) are regulators of osteoclast differentiation and activation and thus bone metabolic turnover in children. Adequate pediatric reference values for their serum/plasma concentrations are lacking. The development of Lambda-Mu-Sigma (LMS)-based continuous reference percentiles for laboratory parameters allow improved data interpretation in clinical practice. Methods: A total of 300 children aged 0.1–18 years (166 boys) were enrolled in the HAnnover Reference values for Pediatrics (HARP) study. sRANKL and OPG were assessed by ELISA. LMS-based continuous reference percentiles were generated using RefCurv software. Results: LMS-based percentiles were established for sRANKL, OPG and sRANKL/OPG ratio, which were all found to be age-dependent. sRANKL and sRANKL/OPG associated with sex. In boys, sRANKL percentiles were highest during infancy, followed by a continuous decline until the age of 7 years and a second peak around age 12–13 years. In girls, a continuous, slow decline of sRANKL percentiles was noticed from infancy onwards until the age of 13 years, followed by a rapid decline until adulthood. OPG percentiles continuously declined from infancy to adulthood. The percentiles for sRANKL/OPG ratio paralleled those of sRANKL. Serum concentrations of sRANKL correlated with OPG and serum phosphate z-scores, while OPG concentrations inversely associated with standardized body weight, BMI, and urinary phosphate to creatinine ratio (each p < 0.05). Conclusion: This is the first report of LMS-based continuous pediatric reference percentiles for sRANKL, OPG and sRANKL/OPG ratio that allows calculation of standardized patient z-scores to assess bone metabolic turnover in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photosynthetic microorganisms have a wide range of biotechnical applications, through the application of their versatile metabolisms. However, their use in industry has been extremely limited to date, partially because of the additional complexities associated with their cultivation in comparison to other organisms. Strategies and developments in photobioreactors (PBRs) designed for their culture and applications are needed to drive the field forward. One particular area which bears examination is the use of strategies to separate solid- and hydraulic-residence times (SRT and HRT), to facilitate flow-through systems and continuous processing. The aim of this review is to discuss the various types of PBRs and methods which are currently demonstrated in the literature and industry, with a focus on the separation of HRT and SRT. The use of an efficient method of biomass retention in a PBR may be advantageous as it unlocks the option for continuous operation, which may improve efficiency, and improve economic feasibility of large-scale implementation of photosynthetic biocatalysts, especially where biomass is not the primary product. Due to the underexplored nature of the separation of HRT and SRT in reactors using photosynthetic microorganisms, limited literature is available regarding their performance, efficiencies, and potential issues. This review first introduces an overview into photosynthetic microorganisms cultivated and commonly exploited for use in biotechnological applications, with reference to bioreactor considerations specific to each organism. Following this, the existing technologies used for the separation of HRT and SRT in PBRs are explored. The respective advantages and disadvantages are discussed for each PBR design, which may inform an interested bioprocess engineer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, several interesting constructions of vectorial Boolean functions with the maximum number of bent components (MNBC functions, for short) were proposed. However, many of them have component functions from the completed Maiorana-McFarland class M # . Moreover, no examples of MNBC functions containing component functions provably outside M # are known. In this paper, we classify all MNBC functions in six variables. Based on the analysis of the obtained equivalence classes, we propose several infinite families of MNBC functions with component functions outside the M # class. In particular, two of our new constructions are solutions to the open problem [Bapić et al (eds) Proceedings of the twelfth international workshop on coding and cryptography, 2022, Item 1., p. 9]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

X-chromosomal genetic variants are understudied but can yield valuable insights into sexually dimorphic human traits and diseases. We performed a sex-stratified cross-ancestry X-chromosome-wide association meta-analysis of seven kidney-related traits (n = 908,697), identifying 23 loci genome-wide significantly associated with two of the traits: 7 for uric acid and 16 for estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), including four novel eGFR loci containing the functionally plausible prioritized genes ACSL4, CLDN2, TSPAN6 and the female-specific DRP2. Further, we identified five novel sex-interactions, comprising male-specific effects at FAM9B and AR/EDA2R, and three sex-differential findings with larger genetic effect sizes in males at DCAF12L1 and MST4 and larger effect sizes in females at HPRT1. All prioritized genes in loci showing significant sex-interactions were located next to androgen response elements (ARE). Five ARE genes showed sex-differential expressions. This study contributes new insights into sex-dimorphisms of kidney traits along with new prioritized gene targets for further molecular research. X-chromosomal genetic variants are understudied but can yield valuable insights into sexually dimorphic human traits and diseases such as chronic kidney disease (CKD). Here, the authors perform a sex-stratified, cross-ancestry X-chromosome-wide association meta-analysis of seven kidney-related traits, with results including identification of four novel loci associated with the CKD-defining trait eGFR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increased production of renewable energy sources is becoming increasingly needed. Amidst other strategies, one promising technology that could help achieve this goal is biological hydrogen production. This technology uses micro-organisms to convert organic matter into hydrogen gas, a clean and versatile fuel that can be used in a wide range of applications. While biohydrogen production is in its early stages, several challenges must be addressed for biological hydrogen production to become a viable commercial solution. From an experimental perspective, the need to improve the efficiency of hydrogen production, the optimization strategy of the microbial consortia, and the reduction in costs associated with the process is still required. From a scale-up perspective, novel strategies (such as modelling and experimental validation) need to be discussed to facilitate this hydrogen production process. Hence, this review considers hydrogen production, not within the framework of a particular production method or technique, but rather outlines the work (bioreactor modes and configurations, modelling, and techno-economic and life cycle assessment) that has been done in the field as a whole. This type of analysis allows for the abstraction of the biohydrogen production technology industrially, giving insights into novel applications, cross-pollination of separate lines of inquiry, and giving a reference point for researchers and industrial developers in the field of biohydrogen production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Progressive pediatric optic pathway gliomas (OPGs) are treated by diverse systemic antitumor modalities. Refined insights on the course of intra-tumoral components are limited. Methods: We performed an exploratory study on the longitudinal volumetric course of different (intra-)tumor components by manual segmentation of MRI at the start and after 3, 6 and 12 months of bevacizumab (BVZ) treatment. Results: Thirty-one patients were treated with BVZ (median 12 months, range: 2–39 months). During treatment the total tumor volume decreased with median 19.9% (range: − 62.3 to + 29.7%; n = 30) within the first 3 months, decreased 19.0% (range: − 68.8 to + 96.1%; n = 28) between start and 6 months and 27.2% (range: −73.4 to + 36.0%; n = 21) between start and 12 months. Intra-tumoral cysts were present in 12 OPGs, all showed a decrease of volume during treatment. The relative contrast enhanced volume of NF1 associated OPG (n = 11) showed an significant reduction compared to OPG with a KIAA1549-BRAF fusion (p < 0.01). Three OPGs progressed during treatment, but were not preceded by an increase of relative contrast enhancement. Conclusion: Treatment with BVZ of progressive pediatric OPGs leads to a decrease of both total tumor volume and cystic volume for the majority of OPGs with emphasis on the first three months. NF1 and KIAA1549-BRAF fusion related OPGs showed a different (early) treatment effect regarding the tumor enhancing component on MRI, which did not correlate with tumor volume changes. Future research is necessary to further evaluate these findings and its relevance to clinical outcome parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied the ability of the polyphenolic complex from Maackia amurensis, the active substance of Maksar, to inhibit the cytopathogenic effect induced by the SARS-CoV-2 and to reduce the concentration of viral RNA in infected Vero E6 cells. Polyphenolic complex showed significant anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity and effectively inhibited viral replication by direct action on viral particles and the early stage of viral infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Early detection of tumors and their spread, particularly in lymph node illnesses, is critical for a full recovery. However, it is currently difficult due to a lack of imaging or detection devices that provide the necessary spatial depth and location information. Consequently, it would be beneficial to have a simple and cost-effective sensor device to determine the 3D position of, e.g., a lymph node in the patient's coordinate system. Methods: In this work, we present a concept and design for a novel semiconductor-based 3D detection system that uses inexpensive off-the-shelf components to measure gamma activity. A simple Arduino-type microcontroller calculates the 3D position of the probe based on the number of the measured pulse, the spatial sensitivity characteristics, and the known geometry of the device. Results: The system was set up from four photodiodes (Osram BPW34), a transistor-based pre-amplifier, and a two-stage operational amplifier as the main stage. Doing so, a signal sufficient to be read by the microcontroller could be produced. The performed calculations proved that for a system consisting of at least four photodiodes, it is possible to determine precise location of a gamma radiation source. Conclusions: After successful first experiments with a single diode, the optimal spatial arrangement of the diodes as well as their orientation will be determined to achieve a compact, cost effective yet fast, and accurate sensor device for every-day clinical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glycoprotein 90K, encoded by the interferon-stimulated gene LGALS3BP, displays broad antiviral activity. It reduces HIV-1 infectivity by interfering with Env maturation and virion incorporation, and increases survival of Influenza A virus-infected mice via antiviral innate immune signaling. Its antiviral potential in SARS-CoV-2 infection remains largely unknown. Here, we analyzed the expression of 90K/LGALS3BP in 44 hospitalized COVID-19 patients at multiple levels. We quantified 90K protein concentrations in serum and PBMCs as well as LGALS3BP mRNA levels. Complementary, we analyzed two single cell RNA-sequencing datasets for expression of LGALS3BP in respiratory specimens and PBMCs from COVID-19 patients. Finally, we analyzed the potential of 90K to interfere with SARS-CoV-2 infection of HEK293T/ACE2, Calu-3 and Caco-2 cells using authentic virus. 90K protein serum concentrations were significantly elevated in COVID-19 patients compared to uninfected sex- and age-matched controls. Furthermore, PBMC-associated concentrations of 90K protein were overall reduced by SARS-CoV-2 infection in vivo, suggesting enhanced secretion into the extracellular space. Mining of published PBMC scRNA-seq datasets uncovered monocyte-specific induction of LGALS3BP mRNA expression in COVID-19 patients. In functional assays, neither 90K overexpression in susceptible cell lines nor exogenous addition of purified 90K consistently inhibited SARS-CoV-2 infection. Our data suggests that 90K/LGALS3BP contributes to the global type I IFN response during SARS-CoV-2 infection in vivo without displaying detectable antiviral properties in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have linked hundreds of loci to cardiac diseases. However, in most loci the causal variants and their target genes remain unknown. We developed a combined experimental and analytical approach that integrates single cell epigenomics with GWAS to prioritize risk variants and genes. We profiled accessible chromatin in single cells obtained from human hearts and leveraged the data to study genetics of Atrial Fibrillation (AF), the most common cardiac arrhythmia. Enrichment analysis of AF risk variants using cell-type-resolved open chromatin regions (OCRs) implicated cardiomyocytes as the main mediator of AF risk. We then performed statistical fine-mapping, leveraging the information in OCRs, and identified putative causal variants in 122 AF-associated loci. Taking advantage of the fine-mapping results, our novel statistical procedure for gene discovery prioritized 46 high-confidence risk genes, highlighting transcription factors and signal transduction pathways important for heart development. In summary, our analysis provides a comprehensive map of AF risk variants and genes, and a general framework to integrate single-cell genomics with genetic studies of complex traits. Here the authors combine an experimental and analytical approach that integrates single cell epigenomics with GWAS to prioritize risk variants and genes to provide a comprehensive map of Atrial Fibrillation risk variants and genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photofermentative hydrogen production has gained increasing attention as a source of green energy. To make such photofermentation processes economically competitive, operating costs need to be reduced, possibly through outdoor operation. Because photofermentation processes are light dependent, the emission spectrum and intensity of light both have a significant influence on the hydrogen production and merit investigation. This study investigates the effect of light sources on the hydrogen production and growth of Rhodopseudomonas palustris, comparing the organism's productivity under longer-wavelength light and light mimicking sunlight. Hydrogen production is enhanced under longer-wavelength light, producing 26.8% (± 7.3%) more hydrogen as compared to under light mimicking that of sunlight; however, R. palustris is still able to produce a considerable volume of hydrogen under light with a spectrum mimicking that of sunlight, providing a promising avenue for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To design bioprocesses utilising hydrocarbon-metabolising organisms (HMO) as biocatalysts, the effect of the organism on the hydrodynamics of bubble column reactor (BCR), such as gas holdup, needs to be investigated. Therefore, this study investigates the first use of an HMO, Alcanivorax borkumensis SK2, as a solid phase in the operation and hydrodynamics of a BCR. The study investigated the gas holdup in 3-phase and 4-phase systems in a BCR under ranges of superficial gas velocities (UG) from 1 to 3 cm/s, hydrocarbon (chain length C13-21) concentrations (HC) of 0, 5, and 10% v/v and microbial concentrations (MC) of 0, 0.35, 0.6 g/l. The results indicated that UG was the most significant parameter, as gas holdup increases linearly with increasing UG from 1 to 3 cm/s. Furthermore, the addition of hydrocarbons into the air-deionized water -SK2 system showed the highest increase in the gas holdup, particularly at high UG (above 2 cm/s). The solids (yeast, cornflour, and SK2) phases had differing effects on gas holdup, potentially due to the difference in surface activity. In this work, SK2 addition caused a reduction in the fluid surface tension in the bioprocess which therefore resulted in an increase in the gas holdup in BCR. This work builds upon previous investigations in optimising the hydrodynamics for bubble column hydrocarbon bioprocesses for the application of alkane bioactivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metal contaminated waters are a significant environmental hazard, which require novel treatment methodologies. Further, the metals which might be recovered from these streams have significant intrinsic value, if they can be collected and concentrated. This work demonstrates, for the first time, the use of surfactin, an environmentally benign biosurfactant, for the flotation of metal ions (Cu2+, Ni2+, and Co2+). Surfactin, at a molar ratio of 1:3, has been shown to float 75.2%, 94.7%, and 98.2% of initial 100 μ M solutions of copper nickel and cobalt, respectively. Increasing the gas flow rate modifies the float by increasing the carryover of water into the overflow. A pH of 5 was found to be ineffective (due to surfactin precipitation), while a pH of 10 was less effective than pH 7, likely due to the ionic speciation of the metals in solution tending to hydroxyl precipitates at a high pH. This work demonstrates an opportunity for the recovery of metals (at low concentrations) using biosurfactant-based froth flotation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Replication of viruses requires interaction with host cell factors and repression of innate immunity. Recent findings suggest that a subset of intracellular mono-ADP-ribosylating PARPs, which are induced by type I interferons, possess antiviral activity. Moreover, certain RNA viruses, including Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), encode mono-ADP-ribosylhydrolases. Together, this suggests a role for mono-ADP-ribosylation (MARylation) in host-virus conflicts, but the relevant substrates have not been identified. We addressed which PARP restricts CHIKV replication and identified PARP10 and PARP12. For PARP10, this restriction was dependent on catalytic activity. Replication requires processing of the non-structural polyprotein nsP1-4 by the protease located in nsP2 and the assembly of the four individual nsP1-nsP4 into a functional replication complex. PARP10 and PARP12 inhibited the production of nsP3, indicating a defect in polyprotein processing. The nsP3 protein encodes a macrodomain with de-MARylation activity, which is essential for replication. In support for MARylation affecting polyprotein processing, de-MARylation defective CHIKV replicons revealed reduced production of nsP2 and nsP3. We hypothesized that MARylation regulates the proteolytic function of nsP2. Indeed, we found that nsP2 is MARylated by PARP10 and, as a consequence, its proteolytic activity was inhibited. NsP3-dependent de-MARylation reactivated the protease. Hence, we propose that PARP10-mediated MARylation prevents polyprotein processing and consequently virus replication. Together, our findings provide a mechanistic explanation for the role of the viral MAR hydrolase in CHIKV replication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen production via microbial photofermentation shows great promise as a method for sustainable hydrogen production; however, operating costs associated with photofermentative hydrogen production need to be reduced. Costs can be reduced using a passive circulation system like the thermosiphon photobioreactor, and by operating it under natural sunlight. In this study, an automated system was implemented to investigate the effect of diurnal light cycles on the hydrogen productivity and growth of Rhodopseudomonas palustris and on the operation of a thermosiphon photobioreactor, under controlled conditions. Diurnal light cycles, simulating daylight times, were found to reduce hydrogen production in the thermosiphon photobioreactor demonstrating a low maximum production rate of 0.015 mol m−3 h−1 (± 0.002 mol m−3 h−1) as compared to 0.180 mol m−3 h−1 (± 0.0003 mol m−3 h−1) under continuous illumination. Glycerol consumption as well as hydrogen yield also decreased under diurnal light cycles. Nonetheless, hydrogen production in a thermosiphon photobioreactor under outdoor conditions was demonstrated as possible avenue for further investigation. Key points: The thermosiphon photobioreactor can operate under diurnal light cycles. Diurnal light cycles reduce hydrogen productivity of R. palustris. Diurnal light cycles have little to no effect on the growth of R palustris. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Southern Amazonia harbors a wide diversity of aquatic macrophyte species because of its diverse wetland habitats and location in the Amazon-Cerrado transition zone, which spans the two largest biogeographic domains in South America. We investigated the taxonomic diversity of aquatic macrophytes in the region with a focus on endemism, species richness, and life forms. We present new records of aquatic macrophyte species and compare our results with other Brazilian phytogeographic domains. We found a high number of species of aquatic macrophytes for the southern Amazon region, comparable to extensive inventories in southern, northeastern, and northern regions of Brazil. We recorded 709 species of aquatic macrophytes in 313 genera and 97 families, which includes 90 species endemic to Brazil and five species endemic to the Brazilian Amazonia. The macrophyte species list of southern Amazonia showed < 25% similarity to inventories in Amazonia and Cerrado. This high diversity of aquatic macrophytes in southern Amazonia, with endemic species and others with restricted ranges, emphasizes the need for conserving these wetlands and vegetation types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetically modified organisms are used extensively in agriculture. To assess potential side effects of genetically modified (GM) plant material on aquatic ecosystems, only a very small number of higher-tier studies have been performed. At the same time, these studies are particularly important for comprehensive risk assessment covering complex ecological relationships. Here we evaluate the methods of experimental higher-tier effect studies with GM plant material (or Bt toxin) in comparison to those well-established for pesticides. A major difference is that nominal test concentrations and thus dose-response relationships cannot easily be produced with GM plant material. Another important difference, particularly to non-systemic pesticides, is that aquatic organisms are exposed to GM plant material primarily through their feed. These and further differences in test requirements, compared with pesticides, call for a standardisation for GM-specific higher-tier study designs to assess their potentially complex effects in the aquatic ecosystems comprehensively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyzes the moderation effect of government responses on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, proxied by the daily growth in COVID-19 cases and deaths, on the capital market, i.e., the S&P 500 firm's daily returns. Using the Oxford COVID-19 Government Response Tracker, we monitor 16 daily indicators for government actions across the fields of containment and closure, economic support, and health for 180 countries in the period from January 1, 2020 to March 15, 2021. We find that government responses mitigate the negative stock market impact and that investors' sentiment is sensitive to a firm's country-specific revenue exposure to COVID-19. Our findings indicate that the mitigation effect is stronger for firms that are highly exposed to COVID-19 on the sales side. In more detail, containment and closure policies and economic support mitigate negative stock market impacts, while health system policies support further declines. For firms with high revenue exposure to COVID-19, the mitigation effect is stronger for government economic support and health system initiatives. Containment and closure policies do not mitigate stock price declines due to growing COVID-19 case numbers. Our results hold even after estimating the spread of the pandemic with an epidemiological standard model, namely, the susceptible-infectious-recovered model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, in anticipation of a demand surge for high-care hospital beds, many hospitals postponed non-emergency interventions of cardiac patients. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the outcomes of cardiac patients whose non-emergency interventions had been deferred during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Patients whose non-emergency cardiac intervention had been cancelled between March 19th and April 30th, 2020 were included (study group). All patients were considered as deferrable according to current recommendations. Patients' outcomes after 12 months were compared to a seasonal control group who underwent non-emergency interventions in 2019 as scheduled. The primary endpoint was a composite of emergency cardiovascular hospitalization and death. Secondary endpoints were levels of symptoms and cardiac biomarkers. Results: Outcomes of 193 consecutive patients in the study group were assessed and compared to 216 controls. The primary endpoint occurred significantly more often in the study group (HR 2.42, 95%CI 1.63–3.61, p < 0.001). This was driven by an increase in hospitalizations. Subgroup analyses showed that especially patients with a deferred transcatheter heart valve intervention experienced early emergency hospitalization (HR 9.55, 95%CI 3.70–24.62, p < 0.001). These findings were accompanied by more pronounced symptoms and higher biomarker levels. Conclusions: Deferral of non-emergency cardiac interventions to meet the higher demand for hospital beds during the COVID-19 crisis is associated with early emergency cardiovascular hospitalizations. Patients suffering from valvular heart disease especially constitute a vulnerable group. Consequently, our results suggest that current recommendations on the management of cardiovascular disease during the COVID-19 pandemic need revision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We tested the feasibility of ultrasound technology for generating pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy (usPIPAC) and compared its performance vs. comparator (PIPAC).Material and Methods: A piezoelectric ultrasound aerosolizer (NextGen, Sinaptec) was compared with the available technology (Capnopen, Capnomed). Granulometry was measured for water, Glc 5%, and silicone oil using laser diffraction spectrometry. Two- and three-dimensional (2D and 3D) spraying patterns were determined with methylene blue. Tissue penetration of doxorubicin (DOX) was measured by fluorescence microscopy in the enhanced inverted Bovine Urinary Bladder model (eIBUB). Tissue DOX concentration was measured by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).Results: The droplets median aerodynamic diameter was (usPIPAC vs. PIPAC): H20: 40.4 (CI 10-90%: 19.0-102.3) vs. 34.8 (22.8-52.7) µm; Glc 5%: 52.8 (22.2-132.1) vs. 39.0 (23.7-65.2) µm; Silicone oil: 178.7 (55.7-501.8) vs. 43.0 (20.2-78.5) µm. 2D and 3D blue ink distribution pattern of usPIPAC was largely equivalent with PIPAC, as was DOX tissue concentration (usPIPAC: 0.65 (CI 5-95%: 0.44-0.86) vs. PIPAC: 0.88 (0.59-1.17) ng/ml, p = 0.29). DOX tissue penetration with usPIPAC was inferior to PIPAC: usPIPAC: 60.1 (CI 5.95%: 58.8-61.5) µm vs. PIPAC: 1172 (1157-1198) µm, p < 0.001). The homogeneity of spatial distribution (top, middle and bottom of the eIBUB) was comparable between modalities.Discussion: usPIPAC is feasible, but its performance as a drug delivery system remains currently inferior to PIPAC, in particular for lipophilic solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Parents of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have shown high perceived parenting stress. Hence, physiological adjustment processes, involving the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis, seem possible. We hypothesized that (1) ADHD symptoms of the child predict an increase of maternal hair cortisol concentration (HCC), and (2) presence of psychosocial adversity amplifies the prediction. We analyzed a preschool-aged sample using a longitudinal design (T1, at the children's age of 4 years; T2, 12 months later). 128 mothers and their children participated in the study. To determine HCC of the previous 3 months, the first scalp-near 3 cm hair segment was used. ADHD symptoms of the child were measured using teacher- and parent-report questionnaires and a clinical interview with the mother. The T1 teacher-reported ADHD symptoms score of the child was significantly positively associated with the mother's T1 and T2 HCC score. In families with high psychosocial adversity, the prediction of an increase in maternal HCC by the teacher-reported ADHD symptoms of child was significantly stronger than in low-adversity families. In presence of psychosocial family adversity, ADHD symptoms of the child predicted an increase in the mother's HCC. As a continuously high cortisol level implicates health risks and might in turn affect parenting resources, the identifying of caregivers at risk through biological markers of stress could be helpful for planning targeted interventions. As our study is the first on this issue, cross-validation is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Predicting how natural and anthropogenic drivers shape different ecological indicators, such as plant populations along environmental gradients, can be a relevant tool for establishing management and conservation criteria of tropical wetlands. We aimed to assess the effects of seasonal flood disturbance, type of grasslands and topographical conditions on Croton trinitatis population distribution in a tropical wetland. Methods: The study was carried out in a seasonally flooded grassland (Central-West Brazil). We conducted samplings of soil on the dry and flood hydrophases of the Pantanal. We took the samples in eight seasonal ponds, with 1 km interval between them. Transects were marked during the flood period, observing the water level, one in the lowest zone, in the middle of the pond = low (ca. 60 cm deep), one at the pond edge = mid (ca. 30 cm deep) and one in the higher zone, on the external part = high (ca. 1 cm deep). Results: The results showed that the topography, seasonality, and types of grassland determine differences in the abundance patterns of adult plants and seedlings, and seed bank and seed predation. The abiotic factors can shape plant population-related ecological processes and patterns, with outputs (germination and predation) and inputs (local dispersion and from neighbouring areas) of proportional seeds for the population maintenance in this environment. Conclusion: We emphasize the importance of these findings, to show that abiotic factors are not the only ones to be considered in ecological studies of distribution and structuring of populations in habitats with extreme seasonal events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytosterol serum concentrations are under tight genetic control. The relationship between phytosterols and coronary artery disease (CAD) is controversially discussed. We perform a genome-wide meta-analysis of 32 phytosterol traits reflecting resorption, cholesterol synthesis and esterification in six studies with up to 9758 subjects and detect ten independent genome-wide significant SNPs at seven genomic loci. We confirm previously established associations at ABCG5/8 and ABO and demonstrate an extended locus heterogeneity at ABCG5/8 with different functional mechanisms. New loci comprise HMGCR, NPC1L1, PNLIPRP2, SCARB1 and APOE. Based on these results, we perform Mendelian Randomization analyses (MR) revealing a risk-increasing causal relationship of sitosterol serum concentrations and CAD, which is partly mediated by cholesterol. Here we report that phytosterols are polygenic traits. MR add evidence of both, direct and indirect causal effects of sitosterol on CAD. Physterols are cholesterol homologs derived from plants, which are found in humans through consumption of plant products. Here the authors have performed a genome-wide meta-analysis of 32 serum phytosterol traits, with evidence suggesting causality between sitosterol and coronary artery disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The introductory article of this Special Issue explores the potential of an organisational perspective in comparative migration studies and for migration studies more broadly. Although organisations shape migration processes and the in/exclusion of migrants and their descendants in multiple ways, their role has long received surprisingly little attention in migration studies. Taking stock of the research engaging with organisations, we outline the main contours of the literature and suggest several conceptual perspectives that migration scholarship may benefit from. Based on the contributions included in this Special Issue, which focus on different types of organisations in diverse empirical contexts, we discuss three main patterns of organisational practices influencing migration and migrants' trajectories. These pertain to (1) decision-making about in/exclusion and underlying categorisations, (2) the (re-)production of 'migrant figures', and (3) rationalities and structures shaping organisational practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The detection of a pathogenic variant in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene has medical and psychological consequences for both, affected mutation carriers and their relatives. A two-phase study with explanatory sequential mixed methods design examined the psychological impact of genetic testing and associated family communication processes. Analyzing a survey data of 79 carriers of a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation, the majority had general psychological distress independent of cancer diagnosis in the patients' history. The point prevalence of depression was 16.9%. Contrary to their subjective perception, the respondents' knowledge about those mutations was moderate. Despite the high rate of information transfer to relatives at risk (100%), their reported uptake of genetic testing was low (45.6%). Communication about the mutation detection was more frequent with female than with male relatives. In-depth focus group interviews revealed significant barriers to accessing genetic counseling including anxiety, uncertainty about the benefits of testing and about the own cancer risk, particularly among males. This study suggests that an adequate knowledge of the genetic background and psychological support is required to reduce emotional distress, to support familial communication and to facilitate genetic testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many interventions targeting executive function (EF) development in the preschool period, where malleability might be particularly high, have been created and evaluated. We conducted a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the effects of these interventions on (a) EFs in preschool children from the general population as well as preschool children with (symptoms of) attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), and (b) ADHD and ODD symptoms in preschool children with ADHD/ODD (symptoms). Literature search yielded 35 RCTs. Risk of bias of the individual studies was assessed. A random-effects model was used. Moderator effects were tested using mixed model analyses. The overall effects on EFs were: d = 0.46 (95% CI 0.30–0.61) for working memory (WM), d = 0.30 (95% CI 0.21–0.38) for inhibitory control (IC), d = 0.33 (95% CI − 0.04 to 0.71) for reward-related IC, and d = 0.47 (95% CI 0.28–0.66) for flexibility. In children with ADHD/ODD, mean effects were d = 0.64 (95% CI 0.31–0.96) for WM and d = 0.46 (95% CI 0.07–0.84) for IC. Studies on reward-related IC and FL were lacking. Effects on ODD and ADHD symptoms were d = 0.40 (95% CI − 0.23 to 1.03) and d = 0.28 (95% CI − 0.08 to 0.64), respectively. Interventions targeting multiple EFs and using interpersonal cognitive scaffolding approaches showed large and statistically significant effects on ADHD and ODD symptoms. In preschool children of the general population and in those with ADHD/ODD (symptoms), interventions led to an improvement of EF performance. In children with ADHD and ODD, cognitive scaffolding interventions were most effective in terms of reducing ADHD and ODD symptoms. However, more well-controlled studies need to be conducted before any firm conclusions can be drawn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parental expressed emotion and positive reinforcement are assumed to affect the development of oppositional and callous-unemotional behaviors in children at risk of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). As longitudinal research on this issue is scarce, we analyzed the respective links between preschool and school age. 138 five-year-old (m = 58.2, s = 6.2 months) children (59% boys) with elevated ADHD symptoms (according to screening) were assessed at the ages of five and eight years. At 5 years, maternal expressed emotion (using the Five Minute Speech Sample) and positive regard of child (using a standardized at-home observation procedure) were assessed. At 5 and 8 years, symptoms of ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), and callous-unemotional (CU) behaviors were measured using a multi-informant approach. Multiple linear regression analyses revealed that positive regard specifically predicted a decrease in ODD symptoms between preschool and school age. The expression of high negative emotion specifically predicted an increase in CU behaviors. The development of ADHD symptoms was not predicted by parenting. Knowledge on these specific links can help to elaborate diagnostic and counseling processes in preschoolers with high ADHD symptoms. Underlying mechanisms and the role of neurocognitive deficits of the preschool child should be further analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Providing care for a child with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is associated with parenting stress. Moreover, adults with elevated ADHD symptoms report increased perceived stress. Despite this, it has rarely been examined whether and how child and maternal ADHD symptoms may affect maternal perceived stress and the stress-sensitive hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis. This study therefore investigated the possible impact of child and maternal ADHD symptoms on mothers' perceived chronic stress and hair cortisol concentration (HCC), while simultaneously considering the effects of child oppositional defiant/conduct disorder (ODD/CD) and maternal depressive symptomatology. In total, 124 mothers (35.96 ± 5.21 years) of preschool children were included. Maternal perceived stress, ADHD and depressive symptoms were assessed using self-report measures. Child ADHD symptoms were assessed using an interview and questionnaires completed by mothers and teachers. Additionally, mothers provided information about their children's ODD/CD symptoms. Hair samples were taken from mothers to assess HCC. Child and maternal ADHD, child ODD/CD, and maternal depressive symptoms accounted for 50% of the variance in perceived chronic stress (F(4, 119) = 30.24; p < 0.01), with only maternal ADHD (β = 0.52, p < 0.01) and depressive symptoms (β = 0.49, p < 0.01) being uniquely significant. Maternal ADHD symptoms did not moderate the relationship between child ADHD symptoms and maternal perceived chronic stress (b = − 0.01; SE b = 0.17; t(5, 118) = − 0.05; p = 0.96). Mother's age became the only significant predictor of maternal HCC (β = 0.29; p < 0.01). Based on these findings, practitioners are advised to be aware of and take into account possible maternal ADHD and depressive symptomatology and perceived chronic stress when treating children diagnosed with ADHD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the overall volumetric oxygen transfer coefficient (KLa) in multiphase hydrocarbon-based bioprocess under a range of hydrocarbon concentrations (HC), solid loadings (deactivated yeast) (SL) and superficial gas velocities (UG) in a bubble column reactor (BCR). KLa increased with increasing UG in the air–water system; due to an increase in the number of small bubbles which enhanced gas holdup. In air–water–yeast systems, the initial addition of yeast increased KLa significantly. Further increases in SL reduced KLa, due to increases in the bubble size with increasing SL. KLa decreased when HC was added in air–water–hydrocarbon systems. However, UG, SL and HC affected KLa differently in air–water–yeast–hydrocarbon systems: an indication of the complex interactions between the yeast and hydrocarbon phases which changed the system's hydrodynamics and therefore affected KL. This work illustrates the effect of the operating conditions (SL, HC and UG) on oxygen transfer behaviour in multiphase systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In COVID-19, immune responses are key in determining disease severity. However, cellular mechanisms at the onset of inflammatory lung injury in SARS-CoV-2 infection, particularly involving endothelial cells, remain ill-defined. Using Syrian hamsters as a model for moderate COVID-19, we conduct a detailed longitudinal analysis of systemic and pulmonary cellular responses, and corroborate it with datasets from COVID-19 patients. Monocyte-derived macrophages in lungs exert the earliest and strongest transcriptional response to infection, including induction of pro-inflammatory genes, while epithelial cells show weak alterations. Without evidence for productive infection, endothelial cells react, depending on cell subtypes, by strong and early expression of anti-viral, pro-inflammatory, and T cell recruiting genes. Recruitment of cytotoxic T cells as well as emergence of IgM antibodies precede viral clearance at day 5 post infection. Investigating SARS-CoV-2 infected Syrian hamsters thus identifies cell type-specific effector functions, providing detailed insights into pathomechanisms of COVID-19 and informing therapeutic strategies. The immune response is key in determining disease severity of COVID19. Here Nouailles et al., apply bulk proteomics and scRNA-Seq of lung and blood samples of SARS-CoV-2 infected Syrian hamsters and provide a temporal atlas of the systemic and pulmonary cellular responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorders (PTLD) exclusively affecting the central nervous system—primary CNS-PTLD (pCNS-PTLD)—are rare. There is no standard therapy, and previous case series have included heterogeneous treatment approaches. We performed a retrospective, multi-centre analysis of 14 patients with pCNS-PTLD after solid organ transplantation (SOT) treated in the prospective German PTLD registry with reduction of immunosuppression (RI), whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT), and concurrent systemic rituximab between 2001 and 2018. Twelve of fourteen patients were kidney transplant recipients and median age at diagnosis was 65 years. Thirteen of fourteen cases (93%) were monomorphic PTLD of the diffuse large B-cell lymphoma type, and 12/13 were EBV-associated. The median dose of WBRT administered was 40 Gy with a median fraction of 2 Gy. The median number of administered doses of rituximab (375 mg/m2) IV was four. All ten patients evaluated responded to treatment (100%). Median OS was 2.5 years with a 2-year Kaplan–Meier estimate of 63% (95% confidence interval 30–83%) without any recorded relapses after a median follow-up of 2.6 years. Seven of fourteen patients (50%) suffered grade III/IV infections under therapy (fatal in two cases, 14%). During follow-up, imaging demonstrated grey matter changes interpreted as radiation toxicity in 7/10 evaluated patients (70%). The combination of RI, WBRT, and rituximab was an effective yet toxic treatment of pCNS-PTLD in this series of 14 patients. Future treatment approaches in pCNS-PTLD should take into account the significant risk of infections as well as radiation-induced neurotoxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), hypertension and cardiovascular diseases are major risk factors for critical disease progression. However, the underlying causes and the effects of the main anti-hypertensive therapies—angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs)—remain unclear. Combining clinical data (n = 144) and single-cell sequencing data of airway samples (n = 48) with in vitro experiments, we observed a distinct inflammatory predisposition of immune cells in patients with hypertension that correlated with critical COVID-19 progression. ACEI treatment was associated with dampened COVID-19-related hyperinflammation and with increased cell intrinsic antiviral responses, whereas ARB treatment related to enhanced epithelial–immune cell interactions. Macrophages and neutrophils of patients with hypertension, in particular under ARB treatment, exhibited higher expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokines CCL3 and CCL4 and the chemokine receptor CCR1. Although the limited size of our cohort does not allow us to establish clinical efficacy, our data suggest that the clinical benefits of ACEI treatment in patients with COVID-19 who have hypertension warrant further investigation. Single-cell analysis reveals how anti-hypertensive drugs affect the risk of severe disease in patients with COVID-19 who have hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immobilization of patients during electrophysiological procedures, to avoid complications by patients' unexpected bodily motion, is achieved by moderate to deep conscious sedation using benzodiazepines and propofol for sedation and opioids for analgesia. Our aim was to compare respiratory and hemodynamic safety endpoints of cryoballoon pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) and electroanatomical mapping (EAM) procedures. Included patients underwent either cryoballoon PVI or EAM procedures. Sedation monitoring included non-invasive blood pressure measurements, transcutaneous oxygen saturation (tSpO2) and transcutaneous carbon-dioxide (tpCO2) measurements. We enrolled 125 consecutive patients, 67 patients underwent cryoballoon atrial fibrillation ablation and 58 patients had an EAM and radiofrequency ablation procedure. Mean procedure duration of EAM procedures was significantly longer (p < 0.001) and propofol doses as well as morphine equivalent doses of administered opioids were significantly higher in EAM patients compared to cryoballoon patients (p < 0.001). Cryoballoon patients display higher tpCO2 levels compared to EAM patients at 30 min (cryoballoon: 51.1 ± 7.0 mmHg vs. EAM: 48.6 ± 6.2 mmHg, p = 0.009) and at 60 min (cryoballoon: 51.4 ± 7.3 mmHg vs. EAM: 48.9 ± 6.6 mmHg, p = 0.07) procedure duration. Mean arterial pressure was significantly higher after 60 min (cryoballoon: 84.7 ± 16.7 mmHg vs. EAM: 76.7 ± 13.3 mmHg, p = 0.017) in cryoballoon PVI compared to EAM procedures. Regarding respiratory and hemodynamic safety endpoints, no significant difference was detected regarding hypercapnia, hypoxia and episodes of hypotension. Despite longer procedure duration and deeper sedation requirement, conscious sedation in EAM procedures appears to be as safe as conscious sedation in cryoballoon ablation procedures regarding hemodynamic and respiratory safety endpoints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given 1 ≤ q < p < ∞ , quantitative weighted L p estimates, in terms of A q weights, for vector-valued maximal functions, Calderón–Zygmund operators, commutators, and maximal rough singular integrals are obtained. The results for singular operators will rely upon suitable convex body domination results, which in the case of commutators will be provided in this work, obtaining as a byproduct a new proof for the scalar case as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]