Showing papers by "University of Crete published in 2020"
TL;DR: Global health has steadily improved over the past 30 years as measured by age-standardised DALY rates, and there has been a marked shift towards a greater proportion of burden due to YLDs from non-communicable diseases and injuries.
5,802 citations
Christopher J L Murray1, Christopher J L Murray2, Christopher J L Murray3, Aleksandr Y. Aravkin1 +2269 more•Institutions (286)
TL;DR: The largest declines in risk exposure from 2010 to 2019 were among a set of risks that are strongly linked to social and economic development, including household air pollution; unsafe water, sanitation, and handwashing; and child growth failure.
3,059 citations
TL;DR: A systematic review of studies on CO VID-19 that included information on patients’ smoking status to evaluate the association between smoking and COVID-19 outcomes including the severity of the disease, the need for mechanical ventilation, theneed for intensive care unit (ICU) hospitalization and death.
Abstract: COVID-19 is a coronavirus outbreak that initially appeared in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China, in December 2019, but it has already evolved into a pandemic spreading rapidly worldwide,. As of 18 March 2020, a total number of 194909 cases of COVID-19 have been reported, including 7876 deaths, the majority of which have been reported in China (3242) and Italy (2505).However, as the pandemic is still unfortunately under progression, there are limited data with regard to the clinical characteristics of the patients as well as to their prognostic factors. Smoking, to date, has been assumed to be possibly associated with adverse disease prognosis, as extensive evidence has highlighted the negative impact of tobacco use on lung health and its causal association with a plethora of respiratory diseases. Smoking is also detrimental to the immune system and its responsiveness to infections, making smokers more vulnerable to infectious diseases. Previous studies have shown that smokers are twice more likely than non-smokers to contract influenza and have more severe symptoms, while smokers were also noted to have higher mortality in the previous MERS-CoV outbreak,.Given the gap in the evidence, we conducted a systematic review of studies on COVID-19 that included information on patients’ smoking status to evaluate the association between smoking and COVID-19 outcomes including the severity of the disease, the need for mechanical ventilation, the need for intensive care unit (ICU) hospitalization and death.The literature search was conducted on 17 March 2020, using two databases (PubMed, ScienceDirect), with the search terms: [‘smoking’ OR ‘tobacco’ OR ‘risk factors’ OR ‘smoker*’] AND [‘COVID-19’ OR ‘COVID 19’ OR ‘novel coronavirus’ OR ‘sars cov-2’ OR ‘sars cov 2’] and included studies published in 2019 and 2020. Further inclusion criteria were that the studies were in English and referred to humans. We also searched the reference lists of the studies included. A total of 71 studies were retrieved through the search, of which 66 were excluded after full-text screening, leaving five studies that were included. All of the studies were conducted in China, four in Wuhan and one across provinces in mainland China. The populations in all studies were patients with COVID-19, and the sample size ranged from 41 to 1099 patients. With regard to the study design, retrospective and prospective methods were used, and the timeframe of all five studies covered the first two months of the COVID-19 pandemic (December 2019, January 2020).Specifically, Zhou et al. studied the epidemiological characteristics of 191 individuals infected with COVID-19, without, however, reporting in more detail the mortality risk factors and the clinical outcomes of the disease. Among the 191 patients, there were 54 deaths, while 137 survived. Among those that died, 9% were current smokers compared to 4% among those that survived, with no statistically significant difference between the smoking rates of survivors and non-survivors (p=0.21) with regard to mortality from COVID-19.Similarly, Zhang et al. presented clinical characteristics of 140 patients with COVID-19. The results showed that among severe patients (n=58), 3.4% were current smokers and 6.9% were former smokers, in contrast to non-severe patients (n=82) among which 0% were current smokers and 3.7% were former smokers , leading to an OR of 2.23; (95% CI: 0.65–7.63; p=0.2).Huang et al. studied the epidemiological characteristics of COVID-19 among 41 patients. In this study, none of those who needed to be admitted to an ICU (n=13) was a current smoker. In contrast, three patients from the non-ICU group were current smokers, with no statistically significant difference between the two groups of patients (p=0.31), albeit the small sample size of the study.The largest study population of 1099 patients with COVID-19 was provided by Guan et al. from multiple regions of mainland China. Descriptive results on the smoking status of patients were provided for the 1099 patients, of which 173 had severe symptoms, and 926 had non-severe symptoms. Among the patients with severe symptoms, 16.9% were current smokers and 5.2% were former smokers, in contrast to patients with non-severe symptoms where 11.8% were current smokers and 1.3% were former smokers. Additionally, in the group of patients that either needed mechanical ventilation, admission to an ICU or died, 25.5% were current smokers and 7.6% were former smokers. In contrast, in the group of patients that did not have these adverse outcomes, only 11.8% were current smokers and 1.6% were former smokers. No statistical analysis for evaluating the association between the severity of the disease outcome and smoking status was conducted in that study.Finally, Liu et al. found among their population of 78 patients with COVID-19 that the adverse outcome group had a significantly higher proportion of patients with a history of smoking (27.3%) than the group that showed improvement or stabilization (3.0%), with this difference statistically significant at the p=0.018 level. In their multivariate logistic regression analysis, the history of smoking was a risk factor of disease progression (OR=14.28; 95% CI: 1.58–25.00; p= 0.018).We identified five studies that reported data on the smoking status of patients infected with COVID-19. Notably, in the largest study that assessed severity, there were higher percentages of current and former smokers among patients that needed ICU support, mechanical ventilation or who had died, and a higher percentage of smokers among the severe cases. However, from their published data we can calculate that the smokers were 1.4 times more likely (RR=1.4, 95% CI: 0.98–2.00) to have severe symptoms of COVID-19 and approximately 2.4 times more likely to be admitted to an ICU, need mechanical ventilation or die compared to non-smokers (RR=2.4, 95% CI: 1.43–4.04).In conclusion, although further research is warranted as the weight of the evidence increases, with the limited available data, and although the above results are unadjusted for other factors that may impact disease progression, smoking is most likely associated with the negative progression and adverse outcomes of COVID-19.
927 citations
TL;DR: Evidence is shown that the novel coronavirus (2019-nCov) is not-mosaic consisting in almost half of its genome of a distinct lineage within the betacoronavirus, suggesting that the hypothesis that 2019-nCoV has originated from bats is very likely.
579 citations
Max Planck Society1, University of Turin2, Technical University of Denmark3, Curtin University4, Utrecht University5, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics6, Korea Institute of Science and Technology7, University of Paris8, University of Oxford9, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory10, Université catholique de Louvain11, University of Crete12, University of Nottingham13, Griffith University14, Aarhus University15, Tohoku University16, Hiroshima University17, Kyushu University18, University of the Western Cape19, Stockholm University20, University of Bologna21, University of Southern Denmark22, National Institute of Standards and Technology23
TL;DR: In this article, the authors present a review of the development of hydrogen storage materials, methods and techniques, including electrochemical and thermal storage systems, and an outlook for future prospects and research on hydrogen-based energy storage.
439 citations
TL;DR: Signs suggest that zinc status may possess protective effect as preventive and adjuvant therapy of COVID-19 through reducing inflammation, improvement of mucociliary clearance, prevention of ventilator-induced lung injury, modulation of antiviral and antibacterial immunity.
Abstract: In view of the emerging COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus, the search for potential protective and therapeutic antiviral strategies is of particular and urgent interest. Zinc is known to modulate antiviral and antibacterial immunity and regulate inflammatory response. Despite the lack of clinical data, certain indications suggest that modulation of zinc status may be beneficial in COVID-19. In vitro experiments demonstrate that Zn2+ possesses antiviral activity through inhibition of SARS-CoV RNA polymerase. This effect may underlie therapeutic efficiency of chloroquine known to act as zinc ionophore. Indirect evidence also indicates that Zn2+ may decrease the activity of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), known to be the receptor for SARS-CoV-2. Improved antiviral immunity by zinc may also occur through up-regulation of interferon α production and increasing its antiviral activity. Zinc possesses anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting NF-κB signaling and modulation of regulatory T-cell functions that may limit the cytokine storm in COVID-19. Improved Zn status may also reduce the risk of bacterial co-infection by improving mucociliary clearance and barrier function of the respiratory epithelium, as well as direct antibacterial effects against S. pneumoniae. Zinc status is also tightly associated with risk factors for severe COVID-19 including ageing, immune deficiency, obesity, diabetes, and atherosclerosis, since these are known risk groups for zinc deficiency. Therefore, Zn may possess protective effect as preventive and adjuvant therapy of COVID-19 through reducing inflammation, improvement of mucociliary clearance, prevention of ventilator-induced lung injury, modulation of antiviral and antibacterial immunity. However, further clinical and experimental studies are required.
332 citations
Research Triangle Park1, Foundation for Research & Technology – Hellas2, University of Washington3, University of Michigan4, National Center for Atmospheric Research5, University of East Anglia6, Colorado State University7, University of Maryland, Baltimore County8, Leibniz Association9, University of Crete10, Columbia University11, University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign12, Nankai University13, Georgia Institute of Technology14, Tsinghua University15, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory16, McGill University17
TL;DR: This paper reviews and synthesizes the current state of knowledge on the acidity of atmospheric condensed phases, specifically particles and cloud droplets, including recommendations for estimating acidity and pH, standard nomenclature, a synthesis of current pH estimates based on observations, and new model calculations on the local and global scale.
Abstract: . Acidity, defined as pH, is a central component of aqueous
chemistry. In the atmosphere, the acidity of condensed phases (aerosol
particles, cloud water, and fog droplets) governs the phase partitioning of
semivolatile gases such as HNO3 , NH3 , HCl, and organic acids and
bases as well as chemical reaction rates. It has implications for the
atmospheric lifetime of pollutants, deposition, and human health. Despite
its fundamental role in atmospheric processes, only recently has this field
seen a growth in the number of studies on particle acidity. Even with this
growth, many fine-particle pH estimates must be based on thermodynamic model
calculations since no operational techniques exist for direct measurements.
Current information indicates acidic fine particles are ubiquitous, but
observationally constrained pH estimates are limited in spatial and temporal
coverage. Clouds and fogs are also generally acidic, but to a lesser degree
than particles, and have a range of pH that is quite sensitive to
anthropogenic emissions of sulfur and nitrogen oxides, as well as ambient
ammonia. Historical measurements indicate that cloud and fog droplet pH has
changed in recent decades in response to controls on anthropogenic
emissions, while the limited trend data for aerosol particles indicate
acidity may be relatively constant due to the semivolatile nature of the
key acids and bases and buffering in particles. This paper reviews and
synthesizes the current state of knowledge on the acidity of atmospheric
condensed phases, specifically particles and cloud droplets. It includes
recommendations for estimating acidity and pH, standard nomenclature, a
synthesis of current pH estimates based on observations, and new model
calculations on the local and global scale.
305 citations
Harvard University1, University of Washington2, Humboldt University of Berlin3, Imperial College London4, University of Belgrade5, Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare6, Technical University of Berlin7, University of Bordeaux8, University of Oxford9, University of Valencia10, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory11, University of Strathclyde12, King's College London13, Foundation for Research & Technology – Hellas14, University of Birmingham15, University College London16, University of Liverpool17, National Physical Laboratory18, University of Nottingham19, University of Sussex20, Fermilab21, Northern Illinois University22, Peking University23, University of Pisa24, University of California, Riverside25, University of Nevada, Reno26, CERN27, University of Niš28, National Institute of Chemical Physics and Biophysics29, Beni-Suef University30, British University in Egypt31, Leibniz University of Hanover32, Paul Sabatier University33, University of Paris34, University of Cambridge35, Wayne State University36, Stanford University37, University of Bergen38, University of Amsterdam39, Northwestern University40, University of Bristol41, University of Warsaw42, University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign43, Fayoum University44, University of Crete45, Queen's University Belfast46, Brandeis University47, University of Bologna48, Cochin University of Science and Technology49, German Aerospace Center50, University of Manchester51, University of Copenhagen52, University of Düsseldorf53, University of Vienna54, Florida State University55, University of Florence56, University of Illinois at Chicago57, University of Bremen58, University of Mainz59, Chinese Academy of Sciences60, University of Cincinnati61
TL;DR: The Atomic Experiment for Dark Matter and Gravity Exploration (AEDGE) as mentioned in this paper is a space experiment using cold atoms to search for ultra-light dark matter, and to detect gravitational waves in the frequency range between the most sensitive ranges of LISA and the terrestrial LIGO/Virgo/KAGRA/INDIGO experiments.
Abstract: We propose in this White Paper a concept for a space experiment using cold atoms to search for ultra-light dark matter, and to detect gravitational waves in the frequency range between the most sensitive ranges of LISA and the terrestrial LIGO/Virgo/KAGRA/INDIGO experiments. This interdisciplinary experiment, called Atomic Experiment for Dark Matter and Gravity Exploration (AEDGE), will also complement other planned searches for dark matter, and exploit synergies with other gravitational wave detectors. We give examples of the extended range of sensitivity to ultra-light dark matter offered by AEDGE, and how its gravitational-wave measurements could explore the assembly of super-massive black holes, first-order phase transitions in the early universe and cosmic strings. AEDGE will be based upon technologies now being developed for terrestrial experiments using cold atoms, and will benefit from the space experience obtained with, e.g., LISA and cold atom experiments in microgravity.
259 citations
TL;DR: A growing body of evidence connects obesity with COVID-19 and a number of mechanisms from immune system activity attenuation to chronic inflammation are implicated and Lipid peroxidation creates reactive lipid aldehydes which in a patient with metabolic disorder and CO VID-19 will affect its prognosis.
Abstract: Coronaviruses (CoVs), enveloped positive-sense RNA viruses, are a group of viruses that cause infections in the human respiratory tract, which can be characterized clinically from mild to fatal. The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the virus responsible. The global spread of COVID-19 can be described as the worst pandemic in humanity in the last century. To date, COVID-19 has infected more than 3,000,000 people worldwide and killed more than 200,000 people. All age groups can be infected from the virus, but more serious symptoms that can possibly result in death are observed in older people and those with underlying medical conditions such as cardiovascular and pulmonary disease. Novel data report more severe symptoms and even a negative prognosis for the obese patients. A growing body of evidence connects obesity with COVID-19 and a number of mechanisms from immune system activity attenuation to chronic inflammation are implicated. Lipid peroxidation creates reactive lipid aldehydes which in a patient with metabolic disorder and COVID-19 will affect its prognosis. Finally, pregnancy-associated obesity needs to be studied further in connection to COVID-19 as this infection could pose high risk both to pregnant women and the fetus.
247 citations
Humboldt University of Berlin1, McMaster University2, National Institutes of Health3, Ghent University Hospital4, University of Amsterdam5, University of Marburg6, Nova Southeastern University7, Transylvania University8, Charité9, Woolcock Institute of Medical Research10, Laval University11, Humanitas University12, University of Cartagena13, University of South Florida14, University of Porto15, Federal University of Bahia16, University of Naples Federico II17, Université Paris-Saclay18, Saint Louis University19, Istanbul University20, Erasmus University Rotterdam21, University of Helsinki22, Odense University Hospital23, University of Crete24, Chiba University25, Wrocław Medical University26, Ukrainian Medical Stomatological Academy27, Hacettepe University28, Medical University of Łódź29, Vilnius University30, National Research Council31, University of Tennessee32, Oslo University Hospital33, University of Beira Interior34, Karolinska Institutet35, University of Cologne36, University of Barcelona37, Russian National Research Medical University38, Monash University39, Ajou University40, Charles University in Prague41, University of Genoa42, Pasteur Institute43, University of Southampton44, University of Edinburgh45, Medical University of Warsaw46, University College London47, Imperial College London48, University of Coimbra49, University of Turku50, University of Bari51, Celal Bayar University52
TL;DR: Next-generation guidelines for the pharmacologic treatment of allergic rhinitis were developed by using existing GRADE-based guidelines forThe disease, real-world evidence provided by mobile technology, and additive studies (allergen chamber studies) to refine the MACVIA algorithm.
Abstract: The selection of pharmacotherapy for patients with allergic rhinitis aims to control the disease and depends on many factors. Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) guidelines have considerably improved the treatment of allergic rhinitis. However, there is an increasing trend toward use of real-world evidence to inform clinical practice, especially because randomized controlled trials are often limited with regard to the applicability of results. The Contre les Maladies Chroniques pour un Vieillissement Actif (MACVIA) algorithm has proposed an allergic rhinitis treatment by a consensus group. This simple algorithm can be used to step up or step down allergic rhinitis treatment. Next-generation guidelines for the pharmacologic treatment of allergic rhinitis were developed by using existing GRADE-based guidelines for the disease, real-world evidence provided by mobile technology, and additive studies (allergen chamber studies) to refine the MACVIA algorithm.
237 citations
TL;DR: The most difficult scientific challenge for this future vaccine obtained in the laboratory is the proof of clinical safety and efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine.
Abstract: In the current context of the pandemic triggered by SARS-COV-2, the immunization of the population through vaccination is recognized as a public health priority. In the case of SARS‑COV‑2, the genetic sequencing was done quickly, in one month. Since then, worldwide research has focused on obtaining a vaccine. This has a major economic impact because new technological platforms and advanced genetic engineering procedures are required to obtain a COVID‑19 vaccine. The most difficult scientific challenge for this future vaccine obtained in the laboratory is the proof of clinical safety and efficacy. The biggest challenge of manufacturing is the construction and validation of production platforms capable of making the vaccine on a large scale.
TL;DR: This Review discusses the current understanding in the structure and physical properties of 2DPKs from the monolayers to assemblies, and presents a comprehensive comparison with conventional semiconductors, thereby providing a broad understanding of low-dimensional semiconductor that feature complex organic–inorganic hetero-interfaces.
Abstract: Achieving technologically relevant performance and stability for optoelectronics, energy conversion, photonics, spintronics and quantum devices requires creating atomically precise materials with tailored homo- and hetero-interfaces, which can form functional hierarchical assemblies. Nature employs tunable sequence chemistry to create complex architectures, which efficiently transform matter and energy, however, in contrast, the design of synthetic materials and their integration remains a long-standing challenge. Organic–inorganic two-dimensional halide perovskites (2DPKs) are organic and inorganic two-dimensional layers, which self-assemble in solution to form highly ordered periodic stacks. They exhibit a large compositional and structural phase space, which has led to novel and exciting physical properties. In this Review, we discuss the current understanding in the structure and physical properties of 2DPKs from the monolayers to assemblies, and present a comprehensive comparison with conventional semiconductors, thereby providing a broad understanding of low-dimensional semiconductors that feature complex organic–inorganic hetero-interfaces. This Review provides an overview of the current understanding of the physics of organic–inorganic two-dimensional halide perovskites.
TL;DR: The contribution of defectiveMitophagy in neurodegenerative diseases, and underlying molecular mechanisms, are discussed, and novel therapeutics based on new discovered mitophagy-inducing strategies are highlighted.
TL;DR: The psychological burden that the COVID-19 pandemic has posed on healthcare professionals in Greece is depicted and potential triggers and the need for measures to minimise the psychological pressure on those at the frontline against this biothreat are discussed.
Abstract: In light of the unprecedented public health crisis of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is highly important to acknowledge the psychological impact of this mounting threat on healthcare professionals. Previous experience from smaller scale epidemics and emerging literature around COVID-19 show that the unparalleled amount of stress that healthcare workers are dealing with, is associated with increased psychological morbidities. We have depicted the psychological burden that the COVID-19 pandemic has posed on healthcare professionals in Greece and have reviewed the literature around the effect of previous epidemics on frontline healthcare staff. Moreover, we discuss potential triggers and the need for measures to minimise the psychological pressure on those at the frontline against this biothreat.
TL;DR: The findings suggest that the presence of U1RNP/Sm autoantibodies in a cohort of patients who have received treatment with RTX is associated with more frequent musculoskeletal and mucocutaneous involvement and predicts a more favourable response to treatment.
Abstract: Background: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is clinically and immunologically heterogeneous with a variable response to treatment. MASTERPLANS is an MRC-funded consortium that seeks to identify immunophenotypic subgroups of patients that predict response to therapy. Autoantibody profiles can differentiate subgroups of patients and have potential to predict response to treatment. Objectives: To determine whether known and novel autoantibodies are associated with response to rituximab (RTX), and analyse the association between these antibodies and disease involvement in various organ systems. Methods: Serum was obtained from 224 SLE patients in the BILAG Biologics Registry who received rituximab according to NHS England criteria (2). Patients were recruited if they were starting a first cycle of rituximab for active SLE (BILAG A or 2xBILAG B) despite previous cyclophosphamide or mycophenolate mofetil. Evidence of any single organ system involvement previous or current was taken as having a BILAG score of A-D but not E. Disease activity was measured using BILAG-2004. Clinical response was defined as improvement by >=1 grade in active BILAG-2004 systems with no worsening in other systems. Autoantibodies were measured by immunoprecipitation of proteins by sera from 35S-labelled K562 cell lines, followed by SDS-PAGE separation and autoradiography. Autoantibodies not able to be detected by this technique (anti-Ro52, anti-dsDNA and aCL) were measured by ELISA. Autoantibody data was analysed in IBM SPSS and GraphPad Prism v8.2. Association between autoantibodies and RTX response was analysed using binary logistic interaction terms and Pearson’s Chi-Square test. Results: Of the 224 patients (201 female, 23 male, median age 40 years) the most common system involvement from the 9 BILAG domains was musculoskeletal (164 patients) and the least ophthalmic (11 patients). Patients with anti-Ro52 and anti-U1RNP/Sm had more frequent involvement of mucocutaneous (p There were 136 patients with sufficient data to define as either responders (n=67) or non-responders (n=69) to RTX at 6 months. RTX responders had a higher frequency of anti-U1RNP/Sm compared to non-responders (Figure 1). Further Pearson’s Chi-Square analysis showed a significant association between presence of anti-U1RNP/Sm and better response to RTX (p Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the presence of U1RNP/Sm autoantibodies in a cohort of patients who have received treatment with RTX is associated with more frequent musculoskeletal and mucocutaneous involvement and predicts a more favourable response to treatment. Acknowledgments : Funded by a grant from the Medical Research Council, grant number MR/M01665X/1. BILAG BR has been funded by unrestricted educational donations from Roche, GSK and LUPUS UK. Part-funded by a grant from LUPUS UK. Disclosure of Interests: : Danyang Li: None declared, Hui Lu: None declared, Juliet Dunphy: None declared, Theresa Smith: None declared, Edward Vital Grant/research support from: AstraZeneca, Roche/Genentech, and Sandoz, Consultant of: AstraZeneca, GSK, Roche/Genentech, and Sandoz, Speakers bureau: Becton Dickinson and GSK, Ian N. Bruce Grant/research support from: Genzyme Sanofi, GSK, and UCB, Consultant of: Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, UCB, Iltoo, and Merck Serono, Speakers bureau: UCB, Neil McHugh: None declared
TL;DR: It seems that immune dysregulation may be implicated in the pathophysiology of severe COVID-19, a pandemic that has evolved from the emergence of a new coronav virus strain, acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), in China.
Abstract: As of 20 April, almost 1.7 million people globally have been diagnosed with Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), a pandemic that has evolved from the emergence of a new coronavirus strain, acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), in China. More than 170,000 deaths have been reported, while there are certainly many more cases of milder disease that have not been diagnosed and officially confirmed due to limited testing capacity in most countries. The pandemic is a global emergency due to the rapid transmission of the disease and the potential to overwhelm the healthcare systems, and is expected to have considerable economic and health impacts. Contributing factors and their possible role in the relatively high infection, death rates between countries and origin have recently been studied [1,2]. This new outbreak has been additionally evaluated for current knowledge on coronaviruses based on a short history to epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestation of the disease, as well as treatment and prevention strategies [3]. The search for potential protective and therapeutic antiviral strategies is of particular and urgent concern [4].
While in most cases, especially in young people without any comorbidities, the disease is expected to be relatively mild, there is a substantial proportion of patients who develop complications and need intensive care-unit support and mechanical ventilation. In one case series of 1099 patients in China [5], 6.1 % of cases suffered from the primary composite end-point of admission to an intensive care unit, use of mechanical ventilation, or death. Patients with severe disease typically present with dyspnea and hypoxemia shortly after disease initiation, and may quickly progress to respiratory failure, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and multi-organ failure [6]. Predictors of adverse outcomes include elevated levels of inflammatory markers and pro-inflammatory cytokines. A study of 150 COVID-19 cases reported that elevated levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), ferritin and IL-6 were associated with death [7]. IL-6, an important pro-inflammatory cytokine, was elevated in fatal cases of COVID-19 in another study of 191 patients [8]. Another study of 452 patients reported that those with severe disease showed lymphocytopenia, neutrophilia, low levels of monocytes, eosinophils and basophils, and elevated levels of infection-related biomarkers and inflammatory cytokines [9]. Pathological examination of a case in China revealed bilateral diffuse alveolar damage, desquamation of pneumocytes, hyaline membrane formation and interstitial mononuclear inflammatory infiltrates [10]. Flow cytometry of peripheral blood revealed reduced levels of CD4+ and CD8 + T cells, which however were hyper-activated, and elevated concentration of pro-inflammatory CCR6+ Th17 in CD4 + T cells. Such findings are hallmarks of ARDS and resemble features observed in SARS and Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome [11,12]. Systemic vasculitis was also observed [10]. Therefore, it seems that immune dysregulation may be implicated in the pathophysiology of severe COVID-19.
TL;DR: In this article, an overview of the approximate spectral coverage and the achieved highest pulse energies and peak electric and magnetic field strengths of various laser-driven technologies is given in Figure 1.
Abstract: DOI: 10.1002/adom.201900681 reason for this interest relies on the fact that THz radiation can couple resonantly to numerous fundamental motions of ions, electrons, and electron spins in all phases of matter. For example, in solids, the THz range overlaps with the frequency of lattice vibrations (phonons), the collision rates of conduction electrons, the binding energy of bound electron–hole pairs (excitons), and the precession frequency of spin waves (magnons). Consequently, THz radiation, both continuous-wave and pulsed, has been used for characterization of and gaining insight into elementary processes in complex materials. The majority of these studies used relatively weak THz fields and, thus, probed the linear response of the material, without inducing notable material modifications. Only recently, however, completely new avenues in THz science were opened up by triggering nonlinear THz responses of materials.[3–13] Instead of using weak fields to primarily observe selected THz modes such as phonons or magnons, strong fields allow one to actively drive them to unprecedentedly large amplitudes, potentially thereby resulting in novel states of matter.[6,8,11] For example, simulations suggest that exciting matter with intense THz transients may lead to massive modifications of electrically[14] or magnetically[15] ordered domains and enable the acceleration of free ions to ≈1 MeV,[16] and postacceleration to 50–100 MeV energies.[17] Remarkable experimental results such as switching of magnetic order,[18,19] parametric amplification of optical phonons,[20] novel insights into spin-lattice coupling,[21,22] and acceleration of free electrons in a THz linear accelerator[23] were achieved only recently. This progress has been made possible by the development of laser-driven table-top THz sources routinely providing pulses with unprecedented energies and peak electric and magnetic field strengths throughout the entire THz spectral range. Different laser-based THz pulse generation techniques can be used to access different parts of the spectral range extending from 0.1 to 10 THz. Some of the recently developed technologies enable the generation of radiation with even larger bandwidth or tuning range up to 100 THz and beyond, which lead to an extension of what is called the THz spectral range. An overview of the approximate spectral coverage and the achieved highest pulse energies and peak electric-field strengths of various laserdriven technologies is given in Figure 1.
TL;DR: Current knowledge on coronaviruses from a short history to epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestation of the disease, as well as treatment and prevention strategies are addressed.
Abstract: The new outbreak of coronavirus from December 2019 has brought attention to an old viral enemy and has raised concerns as to the ability of current protection measures and the healthcare system to handle such a threat. It has been known since the 1960s that coronaviruses can cause respiratory infections in humans; however, their epidemic potential was understood only during the past two decades. In the present review, we address current knowledge on coronaviruses from a short history to epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestation of the disease, as well as treatment and prevention strategies. Although a great amount of research and efforts have been made worldwide to prevent further outbreaks of coronavirus‑associated disease, the spread and lethality of the 2019 outbreak (COVID‑19) is proving to be higher than previous epidemics on account of international travel density and immune naivety of the population. Only strong, joint and coordinated efforts of worldwide healthcare systems, researchers, and pharmaceutical companies and receptive national leaders will succeed in suppressing an outbreak of this scale.
TL;DR: A new research direction of software‐defined metAsurfaces is described, which attempts to push metasurfaces toward unprecedented levels of functionality by harnessing the opportunities offered by their software interface as well as their inter‐ and intranetwork connectivity and establish them in real‐world applications.
Abstract: This work was supported by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme-Future Emerging Topics (FETOPEN) under grant agreement No 736876 (VISORSURF). Financial support by the National Priorities Research Program grant No. NPRP9-383-1-083 from the Qatar National Research Fund is also acknowledged. O.T. acknowledges the financial support of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation within the framework of the project ARCHERS (“Advancing Young Researchers’ Human Capital in Cutting Edge Technologies in the Preservation of Cultural Heritage and the Tackling of Societal Challenges”).
Norwegian School of Sport Sciences1, University of Bristol2, University of Southern Denmark3, Prevention Institute4, University of Lausanne5, University of Strathclyde6, University of Lisbon7, University of Cambridge8, Bergen University College9, VU University Medical Center10, Leibniz Association11, University of Zaragoza12, Ghent University13, University of Granada14, University of Castilla–La Mancha15, University of Helsinki16, University of Malta17, University of Copenhagen18, University of Porto19, Polytechnic Institute of Porto20, Newcastle University21, St George's, University of London22, University of Skövde23, Canadian Real Estate Association24, National Research Council25, university of lille26, National Institutes of Health27, University of Pécs28, Harokopio University29, University of Tartu30, University of Crete31
TL;DR: The findings should encourage policymakers, governments, and local and national stakeholders to take action to facilitate an increase in the physical activity levels of young people across Europe.
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Levels of physical activity and variation in physical activity and sedentary time by place and person in European children and adolescents are largely unknown. The objective of the study was to assess the variations in objectively measured physical activity and sedentary time in children and adolescents across Europe. METHODS: Six databases were systematically searched to identify pan-European and national data sets on physical activity and sedentary time assessed by the same accelerometer in children (2 to 9.9 years) and adolescents (≥10 to 18 years). We harmonized individual-level data by reprocessing hip-worn raw accelerometer data files from 30 different studies conducted between 1997 and 2014, representing 47,497 individuals (2-18 years) from 18 different European countries. RESULTS: Overall, a maximum of 29% (95% CI: 25, 33) of children and 29% (95% CI: 25, 32) of adolescents were categorized as sufficiently physically active. We observed substantial country- and region-specific differences in physical activity and sedentary time, with lower physical activity levels and prevalence estimates in Southern European countries. Boys were more active and less sedentary in all age-categories. The onset of age-related lowering or leveling-off of physical activity and increase in sedentary time seems to become apparent at around 6 to 7 years of age. CONCLUSIONS: Two third of European children and adolescents are not sufficiently active. Our findings suggest substantial gender-, country- and region-specific differences in physical activity. These results should encourage policymakers, governments, and local and national stakeholders to take action to facilitate an increase in the physical activity levels of young people across Europe.
TL;DR: Efficient sub-cycle THz pulse generation by using two-color midinfrared femtosecond laser filaments in ambient air using affordable table-top laser systems is experimentally demonstrated.
Abstract: Extreme nonlinear interactions of THz electromagnetic fields with matter are the next frontier in nonlinear optics. However, reaching this frontier in free space is limited by the existing lack of appropriate powerful THz sources. Here, we experimentally demonstrate that two-color filamentation of femtosecond mid-infrared laser pulses at 3.9 μm allows one to generate ultrashort sub-cycle THz pulses with sub-milijoule energy and THz conversion efficiency of 2.36%, resulting in THz field amplitudes above 100 MV cm−1. Our numerical simulations predict that the observed THz yield can be significantly upscaled by further optimizing the experimental setup. Finally, in order to demonstrate the strength of our THz source, we show that the generated THz pulses are powerful enough to induce nonlinear cross-phase modulation in electro-optic crystals. Our work paves the way toward free space extreme nonlinear THz optics using affordable table-top laser systems. Powerful terahertz pulses are generated during the nonlinear propagation of ultrashort laser pulses in gases. Here, the authors demonstrate efficient sub-cycle THz pulse generation by using two-color midinfrared femtosecond laser filaments in ambient air.
TL;DR: The current understandings of epithelial barrier defects in type 2–driven chronic inflammation of the upper and lower airways are reviewed, the estimated contribution of these novel identified epithelial cells to disease are estimated, and the current clinical challenges in relation to diagnosis and treatment of allergic rhinitis, chronic rhinosinusitis, and asthma are discussed.
Abstract: The respiratory epithelium provides a physical, functional, and immunologic barrier to protect the host from the potential harming effects of inhaled environmental particles and to guarantee maintenance of a healthy state of the host. When compromised, activation of immune/inflammatory responses against exogenous allergens, microbial substances, and pollutants might occur, rendering individuals prone to develop chronic inflammation as seen in allergic rhinitis, chronic rhinosinusitis, and asthma. The airway epithelium in asthma and upper airway diseases is dysfunctional due to disturbed tight junction formation. By putting the epithelial barrier to the forefront of the pathophysiology of airway inflammation, different approaches to diagnose and target epithelial barrier defects are currently being developed. Using single-cell transcriptomics, novel epithelial cell types are being unraveled that might play a role in chronicity of respiratory diseases. We here review and discuss the current understandings of epithelial barrier defects in type 2–driven chronic inflammation of the upper and lower airways, the estimated contribution of these novel identified epithelial cells to disease, and the current clinical challenges in relation to diagnosis and treatment of allergic rhinitis, chronic rhinosinusitis, and asthma.
TL;DR: The purpose of this state-of-the-art review is to describe the determinants of respiratory drive in critically ill patients, review the tools available to assess respiratory drive at the bedside, and discuss the implications of altered respiratory drive during mechanical ventilation.
Abstract: Respiratory drive, the intensity of the respiratory center's output, determines the effort exerted in each breath. The increasing awareness of the adverse effects of both strong and weak respiratory efforts during mechanical ventilation on patient outcome brings attention to the respiratory drive of the critically ill patient. Critical illness can affect patients' respiratory drive through multiple pathways, mainly operating through three feedback systems: cortical, metabolic, and chemical. The chemical feedback system, defined as the response of the respiratory center's output to changes in arterial blood gases and pH, is one of the most important determinants of respiratory drive. The purpose of this state-of-the-art review is to describe the determinants of respiratory drive in critically ill patients, review the tools available to assess respiratory drive at the bedside, and discuss the implications of altered respiratory drive during mechanical ventilation. An analysis that relates arterial carbon dioxide levels with brain's response to this stimulus will be presented, contrasting the brain's responses to the patient's ability to generate effective alveolar ventilation, both during unassisted breathing and with different modes of ventilatory assist. This analysis may facilitate comprehension of the pathophysiology of respiratory drive in critically ill patients. As we aim to avoid both over- and under-assistance with mechanical ventilation, considering the patients' respiratory drive at the bedside may improve clinical assessment and management of the patient and the ventilator.
University of Paris1, Harvard University2, University of Southampton3, Duke University4, Yokohama City University5, French Institute of Health and Medical Research6, Mayo Clinic7, Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research8, Kyushu University9, University of Crete10, Wayne State University11
TL;DR: Overall survival results support the use of 3 months of adjuvant CAPOX for most patients with stage III colon cancer, strengthened by the substantial reduction of toxicities, inconveniencies, and cost associated with a shorter treatment duration.
Abstract: Summary Background A prospective, pooled analysis of six randomised phase 3 trials was done to investigate disease-free survival regarding non-inferiority of 3 months versus 6 months of adjuvant chemotherapy for patients with stage III colon cancer; non-inferiority was not shown. Here, we report the final overall survival results. Methods In this prospective, pooled analysis of six randomised phase 3 trials, we included patients with stage III colon cancer aged at least 18 years with an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0–1 recruited between June 20, 2007, and Dec 31, 2015, across 12 countries in the CALGB/SWOG 80702, IDEA France, SCOT, ACHIEVE, TOSCA, and HORG trials, who started any treatment (modified intention-to-treat). Patients in all trials were randomly assigned to 3 months or 6 months of adjuvant fluorouracil, leucovorin, and oxaliplatin (FOLFOX) every 2 weeks or capecitabine and oxaliplatin (CAPOX) in different doses and methods every 3 weeks, at the treating physician's discretion. The primary endpoint was disease-free survival (time to relapse, secondary colorectal primary tumour, or death due to all causes), and overall survival (time to death due to all causes) was the prespecified secondary endpoint. The non-inferiority margin for overall survival was set as a hazard ratio (HR) of 1·11. Pre-planned subgroup analyses included regimen and risk group. Non-inferiority was declared if the one-sided false discovery rate adjusted (FDRadj) p value was less than 0·025. Findings With median follow-up of 72·3 months (IQR 72·2–72·5), 2584 deaths among 12 835 patients were observed. 5064 (39·5%) patients received CAPOX and 7771 (60·5%) received FOLFOX. 5-year overall survival was 82·4% (95% CI 81·4–83·3) with 3 months of therapy and 82·8% (81·8–83·8) with 6 months of therapy (HR 1·02 [95% CI 0·95–1·11]; non-inferiority FDRadj p=0·058). For patients treated with CAPOX, 5-year overall survival was 82·1% (80·5–83·6) versus 81·2% (79·2–82·9; HR 0·96 [0·85–1·08]); non-inferiority FDRadj p=0·033), and for patients treated with FOLFOX 5-year overall survival was 82·6% (81·3–83·8) and 83·8% (82·6–85·0; HR 1·07 [0·97–1·18]; non-inferiority FDRadj p=0·34). Updated disease-free survival results confirmed previous findings (HR 1·08 [95% CI 1·02–1·15]; non-inferiority FDRadj p=0·25). Data on adverse events were not further recorded. Interpretation Non-inferiority of 3 months versus 6 months of adjuvant chemotherapy for patients with stage III colon cancer was not confirmed in terms of overall survival, but the absolute 0·4% difference in 5-year overall survival should be placed in clinical context. Overall survival results support the use of 3 months of adjuvant CAPOX for most patients with stage III colon cancer. This conclusion is strengthened by the substantial reduction of toxicities, inconveniencies, and cost associated with a shorter treatment duration. Funding US National Cancer Institute.
University of Paris1, University of Milan2, Trinity College, Dublin3, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences4, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University5, Loyola University Medical Center6, American Heart Institute7, University of Belgrade8, Catholic University of Cordoba9, University of Zagreb10, Cleveland Clinic11, University of Genoa12, University of Bologna13, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens14, University of Cambridge15, Gazi University16, University of Perugia17, Capital Medical University18, Boston University19, University of Dammam20, Charles University in Prague21, Concord Repatriation General Hospital22, University of Ljubljana23, Academy for Urban School Leadership24, National University of Ireland, Galway25, Medical University of Vienna26, Medical University of Silesia27, Jan Długosz University28, Karolinska Institutet29, The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research30, Comenius University in Bratislava31, Wrocław Medical University32, University of Chicago33, University of Crete34, Catholic University of Leuven35, Mayo Clinic36, Peking Union Medical College37, Peking University38
TL;DR: The VAS-European Independent Foundation in Angiology/Vascular Medicine draws attention to patients with vascular disease (VD) and presents an integral strategy for the management of patients with VD or cardiovascular risk factors (VD-CVR) and COVID-19.
Abstract: COVID-19 is also manifested with hypercoagulability, pulmonary intravascular coagulation, microangiopathy, and venous thromboembolism (VTE) or arterial thrombosis. Predisposing risk factors to severe COVID-19 are male sex, underlying cardiovascular disease, or cardiovascular risk factors including noncontrolled diabetes mellitus or arterial hypertension, obesity, and advanced age. The VAS-European Independent Foundation in Angiology/Vascular Medicine draws attention to patients with vascular disease (VD) and presents an integral strategy for the management of patients with VD or cardiovascular risk factors (VD-CVR) and COVID-19. VAS recommends (1) a COVID-19-oriented primary health care network for patients with VD-CVR for identification of patients with VD-CVR in the community and patients' education for disease symptoms, use of eHealth technology, adherence to the antithrombotic and vascular regulating treatments, and (2) close medical follow-up for efficacious control of VD progression and prompt application of physical and social distancing measures in case of new epidemic waves. For patients with VD-CVR who receive home treatment for COVID-19, VAS recommends assessment for (1) disease worsening risk and prioritized hospitalization of those at high risk and (2) VTE risk assessment and thromboprophylaxis with rivaroxaban, betrixaban, or low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) for those at high risk. For hospitalized patients with VD-CVR and COVID-19, VAS recommends (1) routine thromboprophylaxis with weight-adjusted intermediate doses of LMWH (unless contraindication); (2) LMWH as the drug of choice over unfractionated heparin or direct oral anticoagulants for the treatment of VTE or hypercoagulability; (3) careful evaluation of the risk for disease worsening and prompt application of targeted antiviral or convalescence treatments; (4) monitoring of D-dimer for optimization of the antithrombotic treatment; and (5) evaluation of the risk of VTE before hospital discharge using the IMPROVE-D-dimer score and prolonged post-discharge thromboprophylaxis with rivaroxaban, betrixaban, or LMWH.
Ghent University Hospital1, Ghent University2, University of Ljubljana3, Sahlgrenska University Hospital4, University of Lausanne5, St. Vincent's Health System6, Saratov State University7, Charité8, University of Cologne9, University of Crete10, University of Antwerp11, University of Iceland12, Reykjavík University13
TL;DR: The historical evolution of the apnea−hypopnea index, which has been subject to many changes, and has been criticised for not capturing relevant clinical features of obstructive sleep apnea, is summarised.
Abstract: The publication of "The Sleep Apnea Syndromes" by Guilleminault et al. in the 1970s hallmarked the discovery of a new disease entity involving serious health consequences. Obstructive sleep apnea was shown to be the most important disorder among the sleep apnea syndromes (SAS). In the course of time, it was found that the prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea reached the proportions of a global epidemic, with a major impact on public health, safety and the economy. Early on, a metric was introduced to gauge the seriousness of obstructive sleep apnea, based on the objective measurement of respiratory events during nocturnal sleep. The apnea index and later on the apnea-hypopnea index, being the total count of overnight respiratory events divided by the total sleep time in hours, were embraced as principle measures to establish the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea and to rate its severity. The current review summarises the historical evolution of the apnea-hypopnea index, which has been subject to many changes, and has been criticised for not capturing relevant clinical features of obstructive sleep apnea. In fact, the application of the apnea-hypopnea index as a continuous exposure variable is based on assumptions that it represents a disease state of obstructive sleep apnea and that evocative clinical manifestations are invariably caused by obstructive sleep apnea if the apnea-hypopnea index is above diagnostic threshold. A critical appraisal of the extensive literature shows that both assumptions are invalid. This conclusion prompts a reconsideration of the role of the apnea-hypopnea index as the prime diagnostic metric of clinically relevant obstructive sleep apnea.
University of California, Santa Barbara1, University of Texas at Austin2, Dresden University of Technology3, University of Wrocław4, Opole University5, University of Tartu6, Gulu University7, Middle East University8, Stockholm University9, University of the Punjab10, University of Nigeria, Nsukka11, Istanbul University12, Franklin & Marshall College13, Norwegian University of Science and Technology14, University of Algiers15, Australian National University16, Russian Academy of Sciences17, Russian State University for the Humanities18, İzmir University of Economics19, University of Social Sciences and Humanities20, Université catholique de Louvain21, Ankara University22, Pontifical Catholic University of Peru23, Cumhuriyet University24, University of the Republic25, ISCTE – University Institute of Lisbon26, The Chinese University of Hong Kong27, National Autonomous University of Mexico28, University of Pécs29, University of Maribor30, University of Zagreb31, University of Malaya32, Central University of Finance and Economics33, University of Crete34, University of Primorska35, University of Amsterdam36, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart37, VU University Amsterdam38, University of Granada39, University of Delhi40, University of Havana41, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro42, University of Vienna43, Universiti Utara Malaysia44, Vilnius University45, University of British Columbia46, Centre national de la recherche scientifique47, Romanian Academy48, Slovak Academy of Sciences49, Comenius University in Bratislava50, University of Monterrey51, DHA Suffa University52, Pontifical Catholic University of Chile53, South-West University "Neofit Rilski"54, University of São Paulo55, Kyung Hee University56, University of Ljubljana57
TL;DR: Using a new 45-country sample (N = 14,399), this work attempted to replicate classic studies and test both the evolutionary and biosocial role perspectives, finding neither pathogen prevalence nor gender equality robustly predicted sex differences or preferences across countries.
Abstract: Considerable research has examined human mate preferences across cultures, finding universal sex differences in preferences for attractiveness and resources as well as sources of systematic cultural variation. Two competing perspectives-an evolutionary psychological perspective and a biosocial role perspective-offer alternative explanations for these findings. However, the original data on which each perspective relies are decades old, and the literature is fraught with conflicting methods, analyses, results, and conclusions. Using a new 45-country sample (N = 14,399), we attempted to replicate classic studies and test both the evolutionary and biosocial role perspectives. Support for universal sex differences in preferences remains robust: Men, more than women, prefer attractive, young mates, and women, more than men, prefer older mates with financial prospects. Cross-culturally, both sexes have mates closer to their own ages as gender equality increases. Beyond age of partner, neither pathogen prevalence nor gender equality robustly predicted sex differences or preferences across countries.
TL;DR: In this paper, the state of the art of laser processing methodologies for the fabrication of bioinspired artificial surfaces to realize extraordinary wetting, optical, mechanical, and biological-active properties for numerous applications is discussed.
Abstract: The exciting properties of micro- and nano-patterned surfaces found in natural species hide a virtually endless potential of technological ideas, opening new opportunities for innovation and exploitation in materials science and engineering. Due to the diversity of biomimetic surface functionalities, inspirations from natural surfaces are interesting for a broad range of applications in engineering, including phenomena of adhesion, friction, wear, lubrication, wetting phenomena, self-cleaning, antifouling, antibacterial phenomena, thermoregulation and optics. Lasers are increasingly proving to be promising tools for the precise and controlled structuring of materials at micro- and nano-scales. When ultrashort-pulsed lasers are used, the optimal interplay between laser and material parameters enables structuring down to the nanometer scale. Besides this, a unique aspect of laser processing technology is the possibility for material modifications at multiple (hierarchical) length scales, leading to the complex biomimetic micro- and nano-scale patterns, while adding a new dimension to structure optimization. This article reviews the current state of the art of laser processing methodologies, which are being used for the fabrication of bioinspired artificial surfaces to realize extraordinary wetting, optical, mechanical, and biological-active properties for numerous applications. The innovative aspect of laser functionalized biomimetic surfaces for a wide variety of current and future applications is particularly demonstrated and discussed. The article concludes with illustrating the wealth of arising possibilities and the number of new laser micro/nano fabrication approaches for obtaining complex high-resolution features, which prescribe a future where control of structures and subsequent functionalities are beyond our current imagination.
TL;DR: In this paper, the state of the art of laser processing methodologies for the fabrication of bioinspired artificial surfaces to realize extraordinary wetting, optical, mechanical, and biological-active properties for numerous applications is discussed.
Abstract: The exciting properties of micro- and nano-patterned surfaces found in natural species hide a virtually endless potential of technological ideas, opening new opportunities for innovation and exploitation in materials science and engineering. Due to the diversity of biomimetic surface functionalities, inspirations from natural surfaces are interesting for a broad range of applications in engineering, including phenomena of adhesion, friction, wear, lubrication, wetting phenomena, self-cleaning, antifouling, antibacterial phenomena, thermoregulation and optics. Lasers are increasingly proving to be promising tools for the precise and controlled structuring of materials at micro- and nano-scales. When ultrashort-pulsed lasers are used, the optimal interplay between laser and material parameters enables structuring down to the nanometer scale. Besides this, a unique aspect of laser processing technology is the possibility for material modifications at multiple (hierarchical) length scales, leading to the complex biomimetic micro- and nano-scale patterns, while adding a new dimension to structure optimization. This article reviews the current state of the art of laser processing methodologies, which are being used for the fabrication of bioinspired artificial surfaces to realize extraordinary wetting, optical, mechanical, and biological-active properties for numerous applications. The innovative aspect of laser functionalized biomimetic surfaces for a wide variety of current and future applications is particularly demonstrated and discussed. The article concludes with illustrating the wealth of arising possibilities and the number of new laser micro/nano fabrication approaches for obtaining complex high-resolution features, which prescribe a future where control of structures and subsequent functionalities are beyond our current imagination.
TL;DR: Developing empathetic skills should not only be the underlying objective in the teaching process of health and social care undergraduate students, but also the subject of the lifelong and continuous education of professionals.