Showing papers by "University of Crete published in 2015"
TL;DR: In the Global Burden of Disease Study 2013 (GBD 2013) as discussed by the authors, the authors used the GBD 2010 methods with some refinements to improve accuracy applied to an updated database of vital registration, survey, and census data.
5,792 citations
Mohammad H. Forouzanfar1, Lily Alexander, H. Ross Anderson, Victoria F Bachman1 +733 more•Institutions (289)
TL;DR: The Global Burden of Disease, Injuries, and Risk Factor study 2013 (GBD 2013) as discussed by the authors provides a timely opportunity to update the comparative risk assessment with new data for exposure, relative risks, and evidence on the appropriate counterfactual risk distribution.
5,668 citations
TL;DR: In the Global Burden of Disease Study 2013 (GBD 2013) as mentioned in this paper, the authors estimated the quantities for acute and chronic diseases and injuries for 188 countries between 1990 and 2013.
4,510 citations
Mohammad H. Forouzanfar1, Lily Alexander1, H. Ross Anderson2, Victoria F Bachman1 +718 more•Institutions (295)
TL;DR: The Global Burden of Disease, Injuries, and Risk Factor study 2013 (GBD 2013) as mentioned in this paper provides a timely opportunity to update the comparative risk assessment with new data for exposure, relative risks, and evidence on the appropriate counterfactual risk distribution.
1,656 citations
Christopher J L Murray1, Ryan M Barber, Kyle J Foreman2, Ayse Abbasoglu Ozgoren +608 more•Institutions (251)
TL;DR: Patterns of the epidemiological transition with a composite indicator of sociodemographic status, which was constructed from income per person, average years of schooling after age 15 years, and the total fertility rate and mean age of the population, were quantified.
1,609 citations
Paris Descartes University1, Institut Gustave Roussy2, Mount Sinai Hospital3, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center4, University of Kiel5, Thomas Jefferson University6, Seconda Università degli Studi di Napoli7, University of Toronto8, University of Massachusetts Medical School9, Louisiana State University10, Flanders Institute for Biotechnology11, Ghent University12, Cancer Research UK13, Queen Mary University of London14, Roswell Park Cancer Institute15, Karolinska Institutet16, University of Freiburg17, Buck Institute for Research on Aging18, University of California, San Francisco19, Université Paris-Saclay20, French Institute of Health and Medical Research21, University College London22, University of Rome Tor Vergata23, Northwestern University24, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center25, National Institutes of Health26, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology27, Johns Hopkins University28, University of Chieti-Pescara29, University of Ulm30, Genentech31, New York University32, Pennsylvania State University33, University of Salento34, Yale University35, Goethe University Frankfurt36, University of Burgundy37, Pasteur Institute38, University of Strasbourg39, University of Zurich40, University of Tokyo41, Technische Universität München42, University of Bern43, University of Michigan44, Medical Research Council45, University of South Australia46, University of Adelaide47, Medical University of South Carolina48, Howard Hughes Medical Institute49, University of Texas at Dallas50, St. John's University51, University of Oviedo52, University of Graz53, Istituto Superiore di Sanità54, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven55, Trinity College, Dublin56, University of Geneva57, University of Amsterdam58, Stony Brook University59, University of Washington60, University of Ferrara61, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland62, La Trobe University63, University of Buenos Aires64, University of Virginia65, University of Padua66, University of Lisbon67, University of Cambridge68, University of Würzburg69, Soochow University (Suzhou)70, Columbia University71, University of Glasgow72, University of Crete73, Foundation for Research & Technology – Hellas74, Innsbruck Medical University75, Carlos III Health Institute76, Rutgers University77, University of Minnesota78, Harvard University79, City University of New York80, Moscow State University81
TL;DR: The Nomenclature Committee on Cell Death formulates a set of recommendations to help scientists and researchers to discriminate between essential and accessory aspects of cell death.
Abstract: Cells exposed to extreme physicochemical or mechanical stimuli die in an uncontrollable manner, as a result of their immediate structural breakdown. Such an unavoidable variant of cellular demise is generally referred to as ‘accidental cell death’ (ACD). In most settings, however, cell death is initiated by a genetically encoded apparatus, correlating with the fact that its course can be altered by pharmacologic or genetic interventions. ‘Regulated cell death’ (RCD) can occur as part of physiologic programs or can be activated once adaptive responses to perturbations of the extracellular or intracellular microenvironment fail. The biochemical phenomena that accompany RCD may be harnessed to classify it into a few subtypes, which often (but not always) exhibit stereotyped morphologic features. Nonetheless, efficiently inhibiting the processes that are commonly thought to cause RCD, such as the activation of executioner caspases in the course of apoptosis, does not exert true cytoprotective effects in the mammalian system, but simply alters the kinetics of cellular demise as it shifts its morphologic and biochemical correlates. Conversely, bona fide cytoprotection can be achieved by inhibiting the transduction of lethal signals in the early phases of the process, when adaptive responses are still operational. Thus, the mechanisms that truly execute RCD may be less understood, less inhibitable and perhaps more homogeneous than previously thought. Here, the Nomenclature Committee on Cell Death formulates a set of recommendations to help scientists and researchers to discriminate between essential and accessory aspects of cell death.
809 citations
TL;DR: A sound platform has been provided from which to launch the requisite future research investigations of a more uniform cohort, and nomenclature and classification criteria for patients with IIP and autoimmune features are provided.
Abstract: Many patients with an idiopathic interstitial pneumonia (IIP) have clinical features that suggest an underlying autoimmune process but do not meet established criteria for a connective tissue disease (CTD). Researchers have proposed differing criteria and terms to describe these patients, and lack of consensus over nomenclature and classification limits the ability to conduct prospective studies of a uniform cohort.
The “European Respiratory Society/American Thoracic Society Task Force on Undifferentiated Forms of Connective Tissue Disease-associated Interstitial Lung Disease” was formed to create consensus regarding the nomenclature and classification criteria for patients with IIP and features of autoimmunity.
The task force proposes the term “interstitial pneumonia with autoimmune features” (IPAF) and offers classification criteria organised around the presence of a combination of features from three domains: a clinical domain consisting of specific extra-thoracic features, a serologic domain consisting of specific autoantibodies, and a morphologic domain consisting of specific chest imaging, histopathologic or pulmonary physiologic features.
A designation of IPAF should be used to identify individuals with IIP and features suggestive of, but not definitive for, a CTD. With IPAF, a sound platform has been provided from which to launch the requisite future research investigations of a more uniform cohort.
ERS/ATS task force provides nomenclature and classification criteria for patients with IIP and autoimmune features
732 citations
TL;DR: European Association of Urology guidelines for non-neurogenic male lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are presented, able to distinguish between uncomplicated male LUTS and possible differential diagnoses and to evaluate baseline parameters for treatment.
723 citations
TL;DR: It was found that shortening the parent Al-soc-MOF-1 linker resulted in a noticeable enhancement in the working volumetric capacity at specific temperatures and pressures with amply conserved gravimetric uptake/working capacity.
Abstract: The molecular building block approach was employed effectively to construct a series of novel isoreticular, highly porous and stable, aluminum-based metal–organic frameworks with soc topology. From this platform, three compounds were experimentally isolated and fully characterized: namely, the parent Al-soc-MOF-1 and its naphthalene and anthracene analogues. Al-soc-MOF-1 exhibits outstanding gravimetric methane uptake (total and working capacity). It is shown experimentally, for the first time, that the Al-soc-MOF platform can address the challenging Department of Energy dual target of 0.5 g/g (gravimetric) and 264 cm3 (STP)/cm3 (volumetric) methane storage. Furthermore, Al-soc-MOF exhibited the highest total gravimetric and volumetric uptake for carbon dioxide and the utmost total and deliverable uptake for oxygen at relatively high pressures among all microporous MOFs. In order to correlate the MOF pore structure and functionality to the gas storage properties, to better understand the structure–propert...
578 citations
University of Brescia1, University of Crete2, Sheba Medical Center3, Royal National Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases4, University of Padua5, University of Düsseldorf6, University Hospital of Bern7, St Thomas' Hospital8, University of Milan9, University of Pisa10, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy11, Karolinska University Hospital12, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens13, Istanbul Bilim University14
TL;DR: Recommendations for women's health issues in SLE and/or APS were developed using an evidence-based approach followed by expert consensus.
Abstract: Objectives Develop recommendations for women9s health issues and family planning in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and/or antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). Methods Systematic review of evidence followed by modified Delphi method to compile questions, elicit expert opinions and reach consensus. Results Family planning should be discussed as early as possible after diagnosis. Most women can have successful pregnancies and measures can be taken to reduce the risks of adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. Risk stratification includes disease activity, autoantibody profile, previous vascular and pregnancy morbidity, hypertension and the use of drugs (emphasis on benefits from hydroxychloroquine and antiplatelets/anticoagulants). Hormonal contraception and menopause replacement therapy can be used in patients with stable/inactive disease and low risk of thrombosis. Fertility preservation with gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues should be considered prior to the use of alkylating agents. Assisted reproduction techniques can be safely used in patients with stable/inactive disease; patients with positive antiphospholipid antibodies/APS should receive anticoagulation and/or low-dose aspirin. Assessment of disease activity, renal function and serological markers is important for diagnosing disease flares and monitoring for obstetrical adverse outcomes. Fetal monitoring includes Doppler ultrasonography and fetal biometry, particularly in the third trimester, to screen for placental insufficiency and small for gestational age fetuses. Screening for gynaecological malignancies is similar to the general population, with increased vigilance for cervical premalignant lesions if exposed to immunosuppressive drugs. Human papillomavirus immunisation can be used in women with stable/inactive disease. Conclusions Recommendations for women9s health issues in SLE and/or APS were developed using an evidence-based approach followed by expert consensus.
511 citations
Broad Institute1, Tehran University of Medical Sciences2, George Washington University3, European Bioinformatics Institute4, Sapienza University of Rome5, Temple University6, Tomsk State University7, University of Notre Dame8, Centre national de la recherche scientifique9, French Institute of Health and Medical Research10, Imperial College London11, James Cook University12, Massachusetts Institute of Technology13, Simon Fraser University14, University of California, Davis15, Institut de recherche pour le développement16, Kansas State University17, Foundation for Research & Technology – Hellas18, University of Perugia19, Virginia Tech20, University of Nevada, Las Vegas21, Baylor College of Medicine22, Boston College23, Harvard University24, University of Manchester25, University of California, San Francisco26, University of Cyprus27, National Health Laboratory Service28, University of Crete29, Kenya Medical Research Institute30, University of Arizona31, University of Pennsylvania32, Indian Council of Medical Research33, New Mexico State University34, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine35, Vanderbilt University Medical Center36, Vanderbilt University37, University of Geneva38, Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics39, Texas A&M University40, Chiang Mai University41, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation42, Rio de Janeiro State University43, Indiana University44, University of Santiago de Compostela45, Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute46, Liverpool John Moores University47, University of Georgia48, Harvey Mudd College49, University of California, Irvine50, University of Groningen51, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention52, Biogen Idec53
TL;DR: The authors investigated the genomic basis of vectorial capacity and explore new avenues for vector control, sequenced the genomes of 16 anopheline mosquito species from diverse locations spanning ~100 million years of evolution Comparative analyses show faster rates of gene gain and loss, elevated gene shuffling on the X chromosome, and more intron losses, relative to Drosophila.
Abstract: Variation in vectorial capacity for human malaria among Anopheles mosquito species is determined by many factors, including behavior, immunity, and life history To investigate the genomic basis of vectorial capacity and explore new avenues for vector control, we sequenced the genomes of 16 anopheline mosquito species from diverse locations spanning ~100 million years of evolution Comparative analyses show faster rates of gene gain and loss, elevated gene shuffling on the X chromosome, and more intron losses, relative to Drosophila Some determinants of vectorial capacity, such as chemosensory genes, do not show elevated turnover but instead diversify through protein-sequence changes This dynamism of anopheline genes and genomes may contribute to their flexible capacity to take advantage of new ecological niches, including adapting to humans as primary hosts
University of Crete1, Gdańsk Medical University2, University of Insubria3, RWTH Aachen University4, Erasmus University Rotterdam5, Charles University in Prague6, Bispebjerg Hospital7, Umeå University8, Autonomous University of Barcelona9, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven10, Derriford Hospital11, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences12
TL;DR: Recommendations to decrease the incidence of incisional hernias it is strongly recommended to utilise a non-midline approach to a laparotomy whenever possible and to perform a continuous suturing technique and to avoid the use of rapidly absorbable sutures.
Abstract: The material and the surgical technique used to close an abdominal wall incision are important determinants of the risk of developing an incisional hernia. Optimising closure of abdominal wall incisions holds a potential to prevent
patients suffering from incisional hernias and for important costs savings in health care. The European Hernia Society formed a Guidelines Development Group to provide guidelines for all surgical specialists who perform abdominal incisions in adult patients on the materials and methods used to close the abdominal wall. The guidelines were developed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach and methodological guidance was taken from Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN). The literature search included publications up to April 2014. The guidelines were written using the AGREE II instrument. An update of these guidelines is planned for 2017. For many of the Key Questions that were studied no high quality data was detected. Therefore, some strong recommendations could be made but, for many Key Questions only weak recommendations or no recommendation could be made due to lack of sufficient evidence. To decrease the incidence of incisional hernias it is strongly recommended to utilise a non-midline approach to a laparotomy whenever possible. For elective midline incisions, it is strongly recommended to perform a continuous suturing technique and to avoid the use of rapidly absorbable sutures. It is suggested using a slowly absorbable monofilament suture in a single layer aponeurotic closure technique without separate closure of the peritoneum. A small bites technique with a suture to wound length (SL/WL) ratio at least 4/1 is the current recommended method of fascial closure. Currently, no recommendations can be given on the optimal technique to close emergency laparotomy incisions. Prophylactic mesh augmentation appears effective and safe and can be suggested in high-risk patients, like aortic aneurysm surgery and obese patients. For laparoscopic surgery, it is suggested using the smallest trocar size adequate for the procedure and closure of the fascial defect if trocars larger or equal to 10 mm are used. For single incision laparoscopic surgery, we suggest meticulous closure of the fascial incision to avoid an increased risk of incisional hernias.
Norwegian Institute for Air Research1, University of Oslo2, International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis3, University of Reading4, Pierre-and-Marie-Curie University5, Leipzig University6, Met Office7, University of Crete8, Tsinghua University9, Aarhus University10, University of Paris11, Norwegian Meteorological Institute12, Peking University13
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors present a summary of the work done within the European Union's Seventh Framework Programme project ECLIPSE (Evaluating the Climate and Air Quality Impacts of Short-Lived Pollutants).
Abstract: . This paper presents a summary of the work done within the European Union's Seventh Framework Programme project ECLIPSE (Evaluating the Climate and Air Quality Impacts of Short-Lived Pollutants). ECLIPSE had a unique systematic concept for designing a realistic and effective mitigation scenario for short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs; methane, aerosols and ozone, and their precursor species) and quantifying its climate and air quality impacts, and this paper presents the results in the context of this overarching strategy. The first step in ECLIPSE was to create a new emission inventory based on current legislation (CLE) for the recent past and until 2050. Substantial progress compared to previous work was made by including previously unaccounted types of sources such as flaring of gas associated with oil production, and wick lamps. These emission data were used for present-day reference simulations with four advanced Earth system models (ESMs) and six chemistry transport models (CTMs). The model simulations were compared with a variety of ground-based and satellite observational data sets from Asia, Europe and the Arctic. It was found that the models still underestimate the measured seasonality of aerosols in the Arctic but to a lesser extent than in previous studies. Problems likely related to the emissions were identified for northern Russia and India, in particular. To estimate the climate impacts of SLCPs, ECLIPSE followed two paths of research: the first path calculated radiative forcing (RF) values for a large matrix of SLCP species emissions, for different seasons and regions independently. Based on these RF calculations, the Global Temperature change Potential metric for a time horizon of 20 years (GTP20) was calculated for each SLCP emission type. This climate metric was then used in an integrated assessment model to identify all emission mitigation measures with a beneficial air quality and short-term (20-year) climate impact. These measures together defined a SLCP mitigation (MIT) scenario. Compared to CLE, the MIT scenario would reduce global methane (CH4) and black carbon (BC) emissions by about 50 and 80 %, respectively. For CH4, measures on shale gas production, waste management and coal mines were most important. For non-CH4 SLCPs, elimination of high-emitting vehicles and wick lamps, as well as reducing emissions from gas flaring, coal and biomass stoves, agricultural waste, solvents and diesel engines were most important. These measures lead to large reductions in calculated surface concentrations of ozone and particulate matter. We estimate that in the EU, the loss of statistical life expectancy due to air pollution was 7.5 months in 2010, which will be reduced to 5.2 months by 2030 in the CLE scenario. The MIT scenario would reduce this value by another 0.9 to 4.3 months. Substantially larger reductions due to the mitigation are found for China (1.8 months) and India (11–12 months). The climate metrics cannot fully quantify the climate response. Therefore, a second research path was taken. Transient climate ensemble simulations with the four ESMs were run for the CLE and MIT scenarios, to determine the climate impacts of the mitigation. In these simulations, the CLE scenario resulted in a surface temperature increase of 0.70 ± 0.14 K between the years 2006 and 2050. For the decade 2041–2050, the warming was reduced by 0.22 ± 0.07 K in the MIT scenario, and this result was in almost exact agreement with the response calculated based on the emission metrics (reduced warming of 0.22 ± 0.09 K). The metrics calculations suggest that non-CH4 SLCPs contribute ~ 22 % to this response and CH4 78 %. This could not be fully confirmed by the transient simulations, which attributed about 90 % of the temperature response to CH4 reductions. Attribution of the observed temperature response to non-CH4 SLCP emission reductions and BC specifically is hampered in the transient simulations by small forcing and co-emitted species of the emission basket chosen. Nevertheless, an important conclusion is that our mitigation basket as a whole would lead to clear benefits for both air quality and climate. The climate response from BC reductions in our study is smaller than reported previously, possibly because our study is one of the first to use fully coupled climate models, where unforced variability and sea ice responses cause relatively strong temperature fluctuations that may counteract (and, thus, mask) the impacts of small emission reductions. The temperature responses to the mitigation were generally stronger over the continents than over the oceans, and with a warming reduction of 0.44 K (0.39–0.49) K the largest over the Arctic. Our calculations suggest particularly beneficial climate responses in southern Europe, where surface warming was reduced by about 0.3 K and precipitation rates were increased by about 15 (6–21) mm yr−1 (more than 4 % of total precipitation) from spring to autumn. Thus, the mitigation could help to alleviate expected future drought and water shortages in the Mediterranean area. We also report other important results of the ECLIPSE project.
TL;DR: An overview of the sequencing technologies and how they are uniquely suited to various types of metagenomic studies is provided and future trends in the field are provided with respect to tools and technologies currently under development.
Abstract: Advances in next-generation sequencing (NGS) have allowed significant breakthroughs in microbial ecology studies. This has led to the rapid expansion of research in the field and the establishment of “metagenomics”, often defined as the analysis of DNA from microbial communities in environmental samples without prior need for culturing. Many metagenomics statistical/computational tools and databases have been developed in order to allow the exploitation of the huge influx of data. In this review article, we provide an overview of the sequencing technologies and how they are uniquely suited to various types of metagenomic studies. We focus on the currently available bioinformatics techniques, tools, and methodologies for performing each individual step of a typical metagenomic dataset analysis. We also provide future trends in the field with respect to tools and technologies currently under development. Moreover, we discuss data management, distribution, and integration tools that are capable of performing comparative metagenomic analyses of multiple datasets using well-established databases, as well as commonly used annotation standards.
TL;DR: The need for more research towards the effects of metals on the subsequent life stages in order to assess the long-term consequences of heavy metal poisoning on fish organisms and possibly correlate these consequences with the environmental contamination (use as biomarkers) is addressed.
TL;DR: In this paper, an experimental determination of exciton excited states and binding energies for monolayer transition-metal dichalcogenides is reported, and lower bounds free of any model assumptions for the exciton binding energies as E 2s A − E 1s A of 0.83 eV and 0.79 eV for WS 2 and WSe 2, respectively, and for corresponding band gaps E g ≥ E 2 s A of 2.90 and 2.53 eV at 4 K.
TL;DR: The extraordinary sensitivity and fast response of this Mg(2+) metal-organic framework for water, and its reusability make it one of the most powerful water sensors known.
Abstract: The development of efficient sensors for the determination of the water content in organic solvents is highly desirable for a number of chemical industries. Presented herein is a Mg(2+) metal-organic framework (MOF), which exhibits the remarkable capability to rapidly detect traces of water (0.05-5 % v/v) in various organic solvents through an unusual turn-on luminescence sensing mechanism. The extraordinary sensitivity and fast response of this MOF for water, and its reusability make it one of the most powerful water sensors known.
Southern Medical University1, Beijing Genomics Institute2, University of California, Irvine3, University of Pavia4, Ghent University5, Foundation for Research & Technology – Hellas6, Agricultural University of Athens7, Georgetown University8, University of Crete9, University of Amsterdam10, Virginia Tech11, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine12, Colorado State University13
TL;DR: The Aedes albopictus Foshan strain has a large genome with significant population-based size variation, the largest mosquito genome sequenced to date, and its size results principally from an abundance of repetitive DNA classes.
Abstract: The Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, is a highly successful invasive species that transmits a number of human viral diseases, including dengue and Chikungunya fevers. This species has a large genome with significant population-based size variation. The complete genome sequence was determined for the Foshan strain, an established laboratory colony derived from wild mosquitoes from southeastern China, a region within the historical range of the origin of the species. The genome comprises 1,967 Mb, the largest mosquito genome sequenced to date, and its size results principally from an abundance of repetitive DNA classes. In addition, expansions of the numbers of members in gene families involved in insecticide-resistance mechanisms, diapause, sex determination, immunity, and olfaction also contribute to the larger size. Portions of integrated flavivirus-like genomes support a shared evolutionary history of association of these viruses with their vector. The large genome repertory may contribute to the adaptability and success of Ae. albopictus as an invasive species.
Max Planck Society1, Paris Diderot University2, Korea Institute for Advanced Study3, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich4, European Southern Observatory5, Aix-Marseille University6, University of Crete7, University of Sussex8, University of Edinburgh9, Institut d'Astrophysique de Paris10, University of Concepción11, Academia Sinica12, University of Oxford13, University of Hawaii14, University of Sheffield15, ETH Zurich16, INAF17, Indiana University18, University of British Columbia19, Anhui Normal University20, Nanjing University21
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors explore the evolution of the star formation activity and dust attenuation properties of star-forming galaxies up to z~4, using mass-complete samples.
Abstract: We use the deep panchromatic dataset available in the GOODS-N field, spanning all the way from GALEX ultra-violet to VLA radio continuum data, to select a star-forming galaxy sample at z~[0.5-4] and robustly measure galaxy photometric redshifts, star formation rates, stellar masses and UV rest-frame properties. We quantitatively explore, using mass-complete samples, the evolution of the star formation activity and dust attenuation properties of star-forming galaxies up to z~4. Our main results can be summarized as follows: i) we find that the slope of the SFR-M correlation is consistent with being constant, and equal to ~0.8 at least up to z~1.5, while the normalization keeps increasing to the highest redshift, z~4, we are able to explore; ii) for the first time in this work, we are able to explore the FIR-radio correlation for a mass-selected sample of star-forming galaxies: the correlation does not evolve up to z~4; iii) we confirm that galaxy stellar mass is a robust proxy for UV dust attenuation in star-forming galaxies, with more massive galaxies being more dust attenuated; iv) strikingly, we find that this attenuation relation evolves very weakly with redshift, the amount of dust attenuation increasing by less than 0.3 magnitudes over the redshift range [0.5-4] for a fixed stellar mass, as opposed to a tenfold increase of star formation rate; v) this finding explains the evolution of the SFR-Auv relation reported in literature: the same amount of star formation is less attenuated at higher redshift because it is hosted in less massive, and less metal rich, galaxies; vi) the correlation between dust attenuation and the UV spectral slope evolves in redshift, with the median UV spectral slope of star-forming galaxies becoming bluer with redshift. By z~3, typical UV slopes are inconsistent, given the measured dust attenuation, with the predictions of commonly used empirical laws: this means that the present cosmic star formation rate density
estimates at redshift z > 3 need to be increased by a factor of around 2. Finally, building on the measured AUV–logM correlation and on existing results, we find evidence that line reddening is marginally larger (by a factor of around 1.3) than continuum reddening at all redshifts probed, and also that the amount of dust attenuation at a fixed ISM metallicity increases with redshift. We speculate that our results point toward an evolution of the ISM conditions of the median star-forming galaxy, such that at z >1.5, Main Sequence galaxies have ISM properties more similar to those found in local starbursts.
TL;DR: A quick and introductory overview of some holographic superconductor models with s-wave, p-wave and d-wave orders can be found in this paper, where the competition and coexistence of these superconductivity orders are studied.
Abstract: In the last years it has been shown that some properties of strongly coupled superconductors can be potentially described by classical general relativity living in one higher dimension, which is known as holographic superconductors This paper gives a quick and introductory overview of some holographic superconductor models with s-wave, p-wave and d-wave orders in the literature from point of view of bottom-up, and summarizes some basic properties of these holographic models in various regimes The competition and coexistence of these superconductivity orders are also studied in these superconductor models
University of Maryland, College Park1, Spectral Sciences Incorporated2, University of St Andrews3, University of Southampton4, Ohio State University5, Valparaiso University6, University College London7, Space Telescope Science Institute8, University of Leicester9, Johns Hopkins University10, Pennsylvania State University11, Goddard Space Flight Center12, Morehead State University13, Institution of Engineers, Sri Lanka14, University of Crete15, University of Amsterdam16, University of California, Irvine17, Georgia State University18, University of Auckland19, INAF20, University of Padua21, Worcester State University22, Ohio University23, York University24, Leiden University25, Netherlands Institute for Space Research26, University of California, Santa Barbara27, Western Michigan University28, University of Chile29, Tel Aviv University30, University of California, Los Angeles31, University of Arizona32, University of Copenhagen33, Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council34, University of Missouri35, Carnegie Mellon University36
TL;DR: In this paper, the densest extended active galactic nucleus (AGN) UV/optical continuum sampling was obtained, with a mean sampling rate < 0.5 day, assuming a simple face-on model.
Abstract: Recent intensive Swift monitoring of the Seyfert 1 galaxy NGC 5548 yielded 282 usable epochs over 125 days across six UV/optical bands and the X-rays. This is the densest extended active galactic nucleus (AGN) UV/optical continuum sampling ever obtained, with a mean sampling rate <0.5 day. Approximately daily Hubble Space Telescope UV sampling was also obtained. The UV/optical light curves show strong correlations (r max =0.57-0.90) and the clearest measurement to date of interband lags. These lags are well-fit by a τ ∝ λ4/3 wavelength dependence, with a normalization that indicates an unexpectedly large disk radius of ∼0.35 ± 0.05 lt-day at 1367 A, assuming a simple face-on model. The U band shows a marginally larger lag than expected from the fit and surrounding bands, which could be due to Balmer continuum emission from the broad-line region as suggested by Korista and Goad. The UV/X-ray correlation is weaker (rm < 0.45) and less consistent over time. This indicates that while Swift is beginning to measure UV/optical lags in general agreement with accretion disk theory (although the derived size is larger than predicted), the relationship with X-ray variability is less well understood. Combining this accretion disk size estimate with those from quasar microlensing studies suggests that AGN disk sizes scale approximately linearly with central black hole mass over a wide range of masses.
TL;DR: In this paper, the effect of porosity on pre-osteoblastic cell ingrowth of three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds fabricated by direct femtosecond laser writing was investigated.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors used the latest version of CIGALE, a fast state-of-the-art galaxy SED-fitting model relying on energy balance, to study the influence of an AGN in a self consistent manner in estimating both the star formation rate and stellar mass in galaxies, as well as to calculate the contribution of the AGN to the power output of the host.
Abstract: Detailed studies of the spectral energy distribution (SED) of normal galaxies have increasingly been used to understand the physical mechanism dominating their integrated emission, mainly owing to the availability of high quality multi-wavelength data from the UV to the far-infrared (FIR). However, systems hosting dust-enshrouded nuclear starbursts and/or an accreting supermassive black hole (an active galactic nucleus or AGN) are especially challenging to study. This is due to the complex interplay between the heating by massive stars and the AGN, the absorption and emission of radiation from dust, as well as the presence of the underlying old stellar population. We used the latest release of CIGALE, a fast state-of-the-art galaxy SED-fitting model relying on energy balance, to study the influence of an AGN in a self consistent manner in estimating both the star formation rate (SFR) and stellar mass in galaxies, as well as to calculate the contribution of the AGN to the power output of the host. Using the semi-analytical galaxy formation model galform, we created a suite of mock galaxy SEDs using realistic star formation histories (SFH). We also added an AGN of Type-1, Type-2, or intermediate-type whose contribution to the bolometric luminosity can be variable. We performed an SED-fitting of these catalogues with CIGALE, assuming three different SFHs: a single-exponentially-decreasing (1τ-dec), a double-exponentially-decreasing (2τ-dec), and a delayed SFH. Constraining the overall contribution of an AGN to the total infrared luminosity (fracAGN) is very challenging for fracAGN< 20%, with uncertainties of ~5–30% for higher fractions depending on the AGN type, while FIR and sub-mm are essential. The AGN power has an impact on the estimation of M∗ in Type-1 and intermediate-type AGNs but has no effect on galaxies hosting Type-2 AGNs. We find that in the absence of AGN emission, the best estimates of M∗ are obtained using the 2τ-dec model but at the expense of realistic ages of the stellar population. The delayed SFH model provides good estimates of M∗ and SFR, with a maximum offset of 10% as well as better estimates of the age. Our analysis shows that the under-estimation of the SFR increases with fracAGN for Type-1 systems, as well as for low contributions of an intermediate AGN type, but it is quite insensitive to the emission of Type-2 AGNs up to fracAGN ~ 45%. A lack of sampling the FIR, or sub-mm domain systematically over-estimates the SFR (<20%), independent of the contribution of the AGN. Similarly, the UV emission is critical in accurately retrieving both the M∗ for Type-1 and intermediate- type AGN and the SFR of all three AGN types. We show that the presence of AGN emission introduces a scatter to the SFR-M∗ main sequence relation derived from SED-fitting, which is driven by the uncertainties on M∗. Finally, we used our mock catalogues to test the popular IR SED-fitting code DecompIR and show that fracAGN is under-estimated but that the SFR is recovered well for Type-1 and intermediate-types of AGN. The fracAGN, SFR, and LIR estimates of Type-2 AGNs are more problematic owing to a FIR emission disagreement between predicted and observed models.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors present a physical scenario that couples electrodynamics, describing surface plasmon excitation, with hydrographic dynamics, describing Marangoni convection and counter-rolls, to elucidate this important subablation regime of light-matter interaction in which matter is being modified.
Abstract: Materials irradiated with multiple femtosecond laser pulses in subablation conditions are observed to develop various types of self-assembled morphologies that range from nanoripples to periodic microgrooves and quasiperiodic microspikes. Here, we present a physical scenario that couples electrodynamics, describing surface plasmon excitation, with hydrodynamics, describing Marangoni convection and counter-rolls, to elucidate this important subablation regime of light-matter interaction in which matter is being modified; however, the underlying process is not yet fully understood. The proposed physical mechanism could be generally applicable to practically any conductive material structured by ultrashort laser pulses; therefore it can be useful for the interpretation of further critical aspects of light-matter interaction.
TL;DR: An overview of the problems faced, the reasons and risk factors for the most commonly encountered comorbidities, and the burden on health care costs is presented.
Abstract: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Age and smoking are common risk factors for COPD and other illnesses, often leading COPD patients to demonstrate multiple coexisting comorbidities. COPD exacerbations and comorbidities contribute to the overall severity in individual patients. Clinical trials investigating the treatment of COPD routinely exclude patients with multiple comorbidities or advanced age. Clinical practice guidelines for a specific disease do not usually address comorbidities in their recommendations. However, the management and the medical intervention in COPD patients with comorbidities need a holistic approach that is not clearly established worldwide. This holistic approach should include the specific burden of each comorbidity in the COPD severity classification scale. Further, the pharmacological and nonpharmacological management should also include optimal interventions and risk factor modifications simultaneously for all diseases. All health care specialists in COPD management need to work together with professionals specialized in the management of the other major chronic diseases in order to provide a multidisciplinary approach to COPD patients with multiple diseases. In this review, we focus on the major comorbidities that affect COPD patients. We present an overview of the problems faced, the reasons and risk factors for the most commonly encountered comorbidities, and the burden on health care costs. We also provide a rationale for approaching the therapeutic options of the COPD patient afflicted by comorbidity.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors conducted a literature review and a meta-analysis to understand the relation between personality, bullying, and victimization behavior, and found that lower level of Agreeableness and Conscientiousness and higher levels of Neuroticism and Extraversion were associated with both bullying and victimisation.
TL;DR: In this review, current results on biomarkers, gene signatures, signaling pathways and epigenetic regulators that are common in embryonic and cancer stem cells are highlighted and their potential use to design next generation biological and pharmaceutical approaches for regenerative medicine and cancer therapies are discussed.
Abstract: Pluripotency of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells is regulated by a well characterized gene transcription circuitry. The circuitry is assembled by ESC specific transcription factors, signal transducing molecules and epigenetic regulators. Growing understanding of stem-like cells, albeit of more complex phenotypes, present in tumors (cancer stem cells), provides a common conceptual and research framework for basic and applied stem cell biology. In this review, we highlight current results on biomarkers, gene signatures, signaling pathways and epigenetic regulators that are common in embryonic and cancer stem cells. We discuss their role in determining the cell phenotype and finally, their potential use to design next generation biological and pharmaceutical approaches for regenerative medicine and cancer therapies.
TL;DR: In the presence of 5-FU treatment, stage II patients with MSI-H tumors maintain their survival advantage in comparison with MSS patients and adding irinotecan has no added benefit.
TL;DR: In this paper, all-dielectric metamaterials of a special class that represent a simple electromagnetic system supporting toroidal dipolar excitations in the THz part of the spectrum are considered.
Abstract: Toroidal multipoles are the terms missing in the standard multipole expansion; they are usually overlooked due to their relatively weak coupling to the electromagnetic fields. Here, we propose and theoretically study all-dielectric metamaterials of a special class that represent a simple electromagnetic system supporting toroidal dipolar excitations in the THz part of the spectrum. We show that resonant transmission and reflection of such metamaterials is dominated by toroidal dipole scattering, the neglect of which would result in a misunderstanding interpretation of the metamaterials’ macroscopic response. Because of the unique field configuration of the toroidal mode, the proposed metamaterials could serve as a platform for sensing or enhancement of light absorption and optical nonlinearities.
TL;DR: In this article, it is shown that flat NC space-time realizes two copies of the Lifshitz algebra that together form a Schr\"odinger algebra (without the central element).
Abstract: We study nonrelativistic field theory coupled to a torsional Newton-Cartan (NC) geometry both directly and holographically. The latter involves gravity on asymptotically local Lifshitz space-times. We define an energy-momentum tensor and a mass current and study the relation between conserved currents and conformal Killing vectors for flat Newton-Cartan backgrounds. It is shown that flat NC space-time realizes two copies of the Lifshitz algebra that together form a Schr\"odinger algebra (without the central element). We show why the Schr\"odinger scalar model has both copies as symmetries and the Lifshitz scalar model only one. Finally we discuss the holographic dual of this phenomenon by showing that the bulk Lifshitz space-time realizes the same two copies of the Lifshitz algebra.