Showing papers by "University of Valencia published in 2020"
•
23 Feb 2020
TL;DR: The ATLAS detector as installed in its experimental cavern at point 1 at CERN is described in this paper, where a brief overview of the expected performance of the detector when the Large Hadron Collider begins operation is also presented.
Abstract: The ATLAS detector as installed in its experimental cavern at point 1 at CERN is described in this paper. A brief overview of the expected performance of the detector when the Large Hadron Collider begins operation is also presented.
3,111 citations
••
TL;DR: In 2019, the LIGO Livingston detector observed a compact binary coalescence with signal-to-noise ratio 12.9 and the Virgo detector was also taking data that did not contribute to detection due to a low SINR but were used for subsequent parameter estimation as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: On 2019 April 25, the LIGO Livingston detector observed a compact binary coalescence with signal-to-noise ratio 12.9. The Virgo detector was also taking data that did not contribute to detection due to a low signal-to-noise ratio, but were used for subsequent parameter estimation. The 90% credible intervals for the component masses range from to if we restrict the dimensionless component spin magnitudes to be smaller than 0.05). These mass parameters are consistent with the individual binary components being neutron stars. However, both the source-frame chirp mass and the total mass of this system are significantly larger than those of any other known binary neutron star (BNS) system. The possibility that one or both binary components of the system are black holes cannot be ruled out from gravitational-wave data. We discuss possible origins of the system based on its inconsistency with the known Galactic BNS population. Under the assumption that the signal was produced by a BNS coalescence, the local rate of neutron star mergers is updated to 250-2810.
1,189 citations
••
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors reported the observation of a compact binary coalescence involving a 222 −243 M ⊙ black hole and a compact object with a mass of 250 −267 M ⋆ (all measurements quoted at the 90% credible level) The gravitational-wave signal, GW190814, was observed during LIGO's and Virgo's third observing run on 2019 August 14 at 21:10:39 UTC and has a signal-to-noise ratio of 25 in the three-detector network.
Abstract: We report the observation of a compact binary coalescence involving a 222–243 M ⊙ black hole and a compact object with a mass of 250–267 M ⊙ (all measurements quoted at the 90% credible level) The gravitational-wave signal, GW190814, was observed during LIGO's and Virgo's third observing run on 2019 August 14 at 21:10:39 UTC and has a signal-to-noise ratio of 25 in the three-detector network The source was localized to 185 deg2 at a distance of ${241}_{-45}^{+41}$ Mpc; no electromagnetic counterpart has been confirmed to date The source has the most unequal mass ratio yet measured with gravitational waves, ${0112}_{-0009}^{+0008}$, and its secondary component is either the lightest black hole or the heaviest neutron star ever discovered in a double compact-object system The dimensionless spin of the primary black hole is tightly constrained to ≤007 Tests of general relativity reveal no measurable deviations from the theory, and its prediction of higher-multipole emission is confirmed at high confidence We estimate a merger rate density of 1–23 Gpc−3 yr−1 for the new class of binary coalescence sources that GW190814 represents Astrophysical models predict that binaries with mass ratios similar to this event can form through several channels, but are unlikely to have formed in globular clusters However, the combination of mass ratio, component masses, and the inferred merger rate for this event challenges all current models of the formation and mass distribution of compact-object binaries
913 citations
••
TL;DR: The detection of SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater in early stages of the spread of COVID-19 highlights the relevance of this strategy as an early indicator of the infection within a specific population.
881 citations
••
TL;DR: It is inferred that the primary black hole mass lies within the gap produced by (pulsational) pair-instability supernova processes, with only a 0.32% probability of being below 65 M⊙, which can be considered an intermediate mass black hole (IMBH).
Abstract: On May 21, 2019 at 03:02:29 UTC Advanced LIGO and Advanced Virgo observed a short duration gravitational-wave signal, GW190521, with a three-detector network signal-to-noise ratio of 14.7, and an estimated false-alarm rate of 1 in 4900 yr using a search sensitive to generic transients. If GW190521 is from a quasicircular binary inspiral, then the detected signal is consistent with the merger of two black holes with masses of 85_{-14}^{+21} M_{⊙} and 66_{-18}^{+17} M_{⊙} (90% credible intervals). We infer that the primary black hole mass lies within the gap produced by (pulsational) pair-instability supernova processes, with only a 0.32% probability of being below 65 M_{⊙}. We calculate the mass of the remnant to be 142_{-16}^{+28} M_{⊙}, which can be considered an intermediate mass black hole (IMBH). The luminosity distance of the source is 5.3_{-2.6}^{+2.4} Gpc, corresponding to a redshift of 0.82_{-0.34}^{+0.28}. The inferred rate of mergers similar to GW190521 is 0.13_{-0.11}^{+0.30} Gpc^{-3} yr^{-1}.
876 citations
••
Joan B. Soriano1, Parkes J Kendrick2, Katherine R. Paulson2, Vinay Gupta2 +311 more•Institutions (178)
TL;DR: It is shown that chronic respiratory diseases remain a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, with growth in absolute numbers but sharp declines in several age-standardised estimators since 1990.
829 citations
••
Shanghai University1, Peking Union Medical College2, Capital Medical University3, Peking Union Medical College Hospital4, Zhengzhou University5, Qingdao University6, Xi'an Jiaotong University7, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong8, University of Macau9, Russian Academy of Sciences10, University of Valencia11, Maharishi Markandeshwar University, Mullana12, Inha University13, King's College London14, University of Palermo15, University of North Texas Health Science Center16
TL;DR: The intravenous transplantation of MSCs was safe and effective for treatment in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia, especially for the patients in critically severe condition.
Abstract: A coronavirus (HCoV-19) has caused the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak in Wuhan, China. Preventing and reversing the cytokine storm may be the key to save the patients with severe COVID-19 pneumonia. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been shown to possess a comprehensive powerful immunomodulatory function. This study aims to investigate whether MSC transplantation improves the outcome of 7 enrolled patients with COVID-19 pneumonia in Beijing YouAn Hospital, China, from Jan 23, 2020 to Feb 16, 2020. The clinical outcomes, as well as changes of inflammatory and immune function levels and adverse effects of 7 enrolled patients were assessed for 14 days after MSC injection. MSCs could cure or significantly improve the functional outcomes of seven patients without observed adverse effects. The pulmonary function and symptoms of these seven patients were significantly improved in 2 days after MSC transplantation. Among them, two common and one severe patient were recovered and discharged in 10 days after treatment. After treatment, the peripheral lymphocytes were increased, the C-reactive protein decreased, and the overactivated cytokine-secreting immune cells CXCR3+CD4+ T cells, CXCR3+CD8+ T cells, and CXCR3+ NK cells disappeared in 3-6 days. In addition, a group of CD14+CD11c+CD11bmid regulatory DC cell population dramatically increased. Meanwhile, the level of TNF-α was significantly decreased, while IL-10 increased in MSC treatment group compared to the placebo control group. Furthermore, the gene expression profile showed MSCs were ACE2- and TMPRSS2- which indicated MSCs are free from COVID-19 infection. Thus, the intravenous transplantation of MSCs was safe and effective for treatment in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia, especially for the patients in critically severe condition.
765 citations
••
TL;DR: Early administration of dexamethasone could reduce duration of mechanical ventilation and overall mortality in patients with established moderate-to-severe ARDS.
737 citations
••
TL;DR: In this article, the authors reported the observation of gravitational waves from a binary-black-hole coalescence during the first two weeks of LIGO and Virgo's third observing run.
Abstract: We report the observation of gravitational waves from a binary-black-hole coalescence during the first two weeks of LIGO’s and Virgo’s third observing run. The signal was recorded on April 12, 2019 at 05∶30∶44 UTC with a network signal-to-noise ratio of 19. The binary is different from observations during the first two observing runs most notably due to its asymmetric masses: a ∼30 M⊙ black hole merged with a ∼8 M⊙ black hole companion. The more massive black hole rotated with a dimensionless spin magnitude between 0.22 and 0.60 (90% probability). Asymmetric systems are predicted to emit gravitational waves with stronger contributions from higher multipoles, and indeed we find strong evidence for gravitational radiation beyond the leading quadrupolar order in the observed signal. A suite of tests performed on GW190412 indicates consistency with Einstein’s general theory of relativity. While the mass ratio of this system differs from all previous detections, we show that it is consistent with the population model of stellar binary black holes inferred from the first two observing runs.
507 citations
••
Eötvös Loránd University1, Yale University2, University of Cape Town3, Flinders University4, University of Calgary5, University of Queensland6, Nottingham Trent University7, Macedonian Academy of Sciences and Arts8, University of Lausanne9, University of Duisburg-Essen10, Auckland University of Technology11, University of Cambridge12, Sapienza University of Rome13, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences14, University of Porto15, University of Ulm16, Stellenbosch University17, University of Zurich18, University of Chieti-Pescara19, Catholic University of Korea20, University of Lübeck21, University of Valencia22, Tehran University of Medical Sciences23, Bellvitge University Hospital24, Tel Aviv University25, Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust26
TL;DR: Although for the vast majority ICT use is adaptive and should not be pathologized, a subgroup of vulnerable individuals are at risk of developing problematic usage patterns and the present consensus guidance discusses these risks and makes some practical recommendations that may help diminish them.
501 citations
••
TL;DR: The field of molecular magnetism is rapidly evolving towards the use of magnetic molecules and molecule-based magnetic materials in physics-driven and nanotechnology-driven fields, in particular molecular spintronics, quantum technologies, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and 2D materials as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: The field of molecular magnetism is rapidly evolving towards the use of magnetic molecules and molecule-based magnetic materials in physics-driven and nanotechnology-driven fields, in particular molecular spintronics, quantum technologies, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) and 2D materials. In molecular spintronics, the goal is the development of a new generation of spintronic devices based on molecular materials or, in the longer term, on one or a few molecules. In the area of quantum technologies, the milestones reached in the design of molecular spin qubits with long quantum coherence times and in the implementation of quantum operations have raised expectations for the use of molecular spin qubits in quantum computation. MOFs and 2D materials are two classes of materials for which magnetism has been, until very recently, an elusive property; molecular materials with attractive properties and functionalities are now starting to be developed in both areas. In MOFs, single-molecule magnets and spin crossover complexes can be integrated into the nodes of the framework, within the pores or both, sometimes giving rise to smart magnetic materials or to hybrid materials exhibiting synergistic combinations of properties. 2D molecular-based magnets can provide a platform to study magnetism in the 2D limit and exhibit superior properties compared with their inorganic analogues in terms of chemical stability and tunability. This Review discusses the expansion of the field of molecular magnetism from the chemical design and physical study of single-molecule magnets and multifunctional magnetic materials towards physics- and nanotechnology-driven areas, in particular molecular spintronics, quantum technologies, metal–organic frameworks and 2D materials.
••
TL;DR: In this article, the authors of standalone papers and graduate students in the Entrepreneurship domain are encouraged to write contribution-focused systematic reviews e.g. by providing a concrete guideline.
Abstract: Systematic literature reviews are an increasingly used review methodology to synthesize the existing body of literature in a field. However, editors complain about a high number of desk rejections because of a lack in quality. Poorly developed review articles are not published because of a perceived lack of contribution to the field. Our article supports authors of standalone papers and graduate students in the Entrepreneurship domain to write contribution-focused systematic reviews e.g. by providing a concrete guideline. Our article analyzes the strengths and weaknesses of a systematic literature review and how they can be overcome. Furthermore, we provide a combined list of highly ranked journals in the Entrepreneurship domain as a basis for quality appraisal. Finally, this article builds a scenario for the future of the systematic literature review methodology and shows how technological improvements have changed this methodology and what can be achieved in the future.
••
University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign1, University of Florida2, University of Minnesota3, University of Valencia4, National University of Public Service5, University of Texas Medical Branch6, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart7, Agostino Gemelli University Polyclinic8, Xi'an Jiaotong University9, University of South Carolina10, Chengdu Kinesiology University11
TL;DR: The cellular mechanisms and danger of this “second wave” effect of COVID-19 to the human body, along with the effects of aging, proper nutrition, and regular physical activity, are reviewed in this editorial article.
Abstract: The SARS-CoV-2-caused COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a devastating threat to human society in terms of health, economy, and lifestyle. Although the virus usually first invades and infects the lung and respiratory track tissue, in extreme cases, almost all major organs in the body are now known to be negatively impacted often leading to severe systemic failure in some people. Unfortunately, there is currently no effective treatment for this disease. Pre-existing pathological conditions or comorbidities such as age are a major reason for premature death and increased morbidity and mortality. The immobilization due to hospitalization and bed rest and the physical inactivity due to sustained quarantine and social distancing can downregulate the ability of organs systems to resist to viral infection and increase the risk of damage to the immune, respiratory, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal systems and the brain. The cellular mechanisms and danger of this “second wave” effect of COVID-19 to the human body, along with the effects of aging, proper nutrition, and regular physical activity, are reviewed in this article.
••
TL;DR: The GW190521 signal is consistent with a binary black hole (BBH) merger source at redshift 0.13-0.30 Gpc-3 yr-1.8 as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: The gravitational-wave signal GW190521 is consistent with a binary black hole (BBH) merger source at redshift 0.8 with unusually high component masses, 85-14+21 M o˙ and 66-18+17 M o˙, compared to previously reported events, and shows mild evidence for spin-induced orbital precession. The primary falls in the mass gap predicted by (pulsational) pair-instability supernova theory, in the approximate range 65-120 M o˙. The probability that at least one of the black holes in GW190521 is in that range is 99.0%. The final mass of the merger (142-16+28 M o˙) classifies it as an intermediate-mass black hole. Under the assumption of a quasi-circular BBH coalescence, we detail the physical properties of GW190521's source binary and its post-merger remnant, including component masses and spin vectors. Three different waveform models, as well as direct comparison to numerical solutions of general relativity, yield consistent estimates of these properties. Tests of strong-field general relativity targeting the merger-ringdown stages of the coalescence indicate consistency of the observed signal with theoretical predictions. We estimate the merger rate of similar systems to be 0.13-0.11+0.30 Gpc-3 yr-1. We discuss the astrophysical implications of GW190521 for stellar collapse and for the possible formation of black holes in the pair-instability mass gap through various channels: via (multiple) stellar coalescences, or via hierarchical mergers of lower-mass black holes in star clusters or in active galactic nuclei. We find it to be unlikely that GW190521 is a strongly lensed signal of a lower-mass black hole binary merger. We also discuss more exotic possible sources for GW190521, including a highly eccentric black hole binary, or a primordial black hole binary.
••
TL;DR: A review of green extraction techniques and their role in promoting sustainable ingredients for the food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries is presented in this paper, where the authors focus on the strategies and present them as success stories for research and education and at the industrial scale.
••
TL;DR: To assess current trajectories towards the GPW13 UHC billion target—1 billion more people benefiting from UHC by 2023—the authors estimated additional population equivalents with UHC effective coverage from 2018 to 2023, and quantified frontiers of U HC effective coverage performance on the basis of pooled health spending per capita.
••
Boston University1, Montreal Children's Hospital2, Canadian Blood Services3, New York University4, Albany Medical College5, University of Chicago6, Dartmouth College7, University of Washington8, Hacettepe University9, University of Tennessee Health Science Center10, University of Pittsburgh11, Northwestern University12, University of Milano-Bicocca13, Universidad del Desarrollo14, University of Sydney15, Southmead Hospital16, University of Florida17, William Mitchell College of Law18, University of Melbourne19, University of Cape Town20, Dubai Hospital21, University of Valencia22, University of Toronto23, The Queen's Medical Center24, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston25, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital26, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital27, Texas A&M University28, Kagawa University29, Capital Medical University30, Tribhuvan University31, Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis32, Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital33, Ruby Hall Clinic34, University of Southern California35
TL;DR: Recommendations are provided for the minimum clinical standards for determination of brain death/death by neurologic criteria in adults and children with clear guidance for various clinical circumstances and have widespread international society endorsement.
Abstract: Importance There are inconsistencies in concept, criteria, practice, and documentation of brain death/death by neurologic criteria (BD/DNC) both internationally and within countries. Objective To formulate a consensus statement of recommendations on determination of BD/DNC based on review of the literature and expert opinion of a large multidisciplinary, international panel. Process Relevant international professional societies were recruited to develop recommendations regarding determination of BD/DNC. Literature searches of the Cochrane, Embase, and MEDLINE databases included January 1, 1992, through April 2020 identified pertinent articles for review. Because of the lack of high-quality data from randomized clinical trials or large observational studies, recommendations were formulated based on consensus of contributors and medical societies that represented relevant disciplines, including critical care, neurology, and neurosurgery. Evidence Synthesis Based on review of the literature and consensus from a large multidisciplinary, international panel, minimum clinical criteria needed to determine BD/DNC in various circumstances were developed. Recommendations Prior to evaluating a patient for BD/DNC, the patient should have an established neurologic diagnosis that can lead to the complete and irreversible loss of all brain function, and conditions that may confound the clinical examination and diseases that may mimic BD/DNC should be excluded. Determination of BD/DNC can be done with a clinical examination that demonstrates coma, brainstem areflexia, and apnea. This is seen when (1) there is no evidence of arousal or awareness to maximal external stimulation, including noxious visual, auditory, and tactile stimulation; (2) pupils are fixed in a midsize or dilated position and are nonreactive to light; (3) corneal, oculocephalic, and oculovestibular reflexes are absent; (4) there is no facial movement to noxious stimulation; (5) the gag reflex is absent to bilateral posterior pharyngeal stimulation; (6) the cough reflex is absent to deep tracheal suctioning; (7) there is no brain-mediated motor response to noxious stimulation of the limbs; and (8) spontaneous respirations are not observed when apnea test targets reach pH Conclusions and Relevance This report provides recommendations for the minimum clinical standards for determination of brain death/death by neurologic criteria in adults and children with clear guidance for various clinical circumstances. The recommendations have widespread international society endorsement and can serve to guide professional societies and countries in the revision or development of protocols and procedures for determination of brain death/death by neurologic criteria, leading to greater consistency within and between countries.
••
Duke University1, University of Nottingham2, University of Toronto3, CERN4, University of Cincinnati5, University of California, Irvine6, Northern Illinois University7, Russian Academy of Sciences8, University College London9, University of Zaragoza10, Heidelberg University11, University of Groningen12, Paul Scherrer Institute13, Institute for Advanced Study14, University of Birmingham15, University of Valencia16, University of Milan17, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory18, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla19, University of Bristol20, University of Victoria21, Aix-Marseille University22, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory23, KAIST24, University of Oxford25
TL;DR: The Physics Beyond Colliders initiative as mentioned in this paper is an exploratory study aimed at exploiting the full scientific potential of the CERN's accelerator complex and scientific infrastructures through projects complementary to the LHC and other possible future colliders.
Abstract: The Physics Beyond Colliders initiative is an exploratory study aimed at exploiting the full scientific potential of the CERN's accelerator complex and scientific infrastructures through projects complementary to the LHC and other possible future colliders. These projects will target fundamental physics questions in modern particle physics. This document presents the status of the proposals presented in the framework of the Beyond Standard Model physics working group, and explore their physics reach and the impact that CERN could have in the next 10-20 years on the international landscape.
••
TL;DR: The most widespread functional ingredients, such as polyunsaturated fatty acids, probiotics/prebiotics/synbiotics, and antioxidants, and their technological means of delivery in food products are described and a guideline to attest that some ingredients or foods truly deserve this special designation is proposed.
Abstract: Functional foods is a very popular term in the social and scientific media; consequently, food producers have invested resources in the development of processed foods that may provide added functio...
••
TL;DR: In conclusion, PGC-1α acts as an essential node connecting metabolic regulation, redox control, and inflammatory pathways, and it is an interesting therapeutic target that may have significant benefits for a number of metabolic diseases.
Abstract: Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator (PGC)-1α is a transcriptional coactivator described as a master regulator of mitochondrial biogenesis and function, including oxidative phosphorylation and reactive oxygen species detoxification. PGC-1α is highly expressed in tissues with high energy demands, and it is clearly associated with the pathogenesis of metabolic syndrome and its principal complications including obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, and hepatic steatosis. We herein review the molecular pathways regulated by PGC-1α, which connect oxidative stress and mitochondrial metabolism with inflammatory response and metabolic syndrome. PGC-1α regulates the expression of mitochondrial antioxidant genes, including manganese superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxiredoxin 3 and 5, uncoupling protein 2, thioredoxin 2, and thioredoxin reductase and thus prevents oxidative injury and mitochondrial dysfunction. Dysregulation of PGC-1α alters redox homeostasis in cells and exacerbates inflammatory response, which is commonly accompanied by metabolic disturbances. During inflammation, low levels of PGC-1α downregulate mitochondrial antioxidant gene expression, induce oxidative stress, and promote nuclear factor kappa B activation. In metabolic syndrome, which is characterized by a chronic low grade of inflammation, PGC-1α dysregulation modifies the metabolic properties of tissues by altering mitochondrial function and promoting reactive oxygen species accumulation. In conclusion, PGC-1α acts as an essential node connecting metabolic regulation, redox control, and inflammatory pathways, and it is an interesting therapeutic target that may have significant benefits for a number of metabolic diseases.
••
26 May 2020
TL;DR: Some of the most important undesirable consequences of prolonged homestay such as physical inactivity, weight gain, behavioral addiction disorders, insufficient sunlight exposure and social isolation will be critically addressed in this article, which also aims to provide some tentative recommendations for the alleviation of side effects.
Abstract: As coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic continues, an increasing number of countries and territories are adopting restrictive measures based on physical ("social") distancing, aimed at preventing human-to-human transmission and thereby limiting virus propagation. Nationwide lockdowns, encompassing mass quarantine under stay-at-home ordinances, have already been proven effective to contain the COVID-19 outbreak in some countries. Nevertheless, a prolonged homestay may also be associated with potential side effects, which may jeopardize people's health and thus must be recognized and mitigated in a way without violating local ordinances. Some of the most important undesirable consequences of prolonged homestay such as physical inactivity, weight gain, behavioral addiction disorders, insufficient sunlight exposure and social isolation will be critically addressed in this article, which also aims to provide some tentative recommendations for the alleviation of side effects.
••
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, University of Strathclyde11, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory12, 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, Northern Illinois University21, Fermilab22, Peking University23, University of Pisa24, University of California, Riverside25, University of Nevada, Reno26, CERN27, University of Niš28, National Institute of Chemical Physics and Biophysics29, British University in Egypt30, Beni-Suef University31, 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.
••
Max Planck Society1, Woods Hole Research Center2, University of Valencia3, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology4, Wageningen University and Research Centre5, University of Jena6, Universidade Nova de Lisboa7, Université Paris-Saclay8, University of Augsburg9, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation10, Chiba University11, University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign12, Nanjing Normal University13, National Center for Atmospheric Research14, University of Exeter15, Central Maine Community College16, Tuscia University17, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich18, Oak Ridge National Laboratory19
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors provide a systematic assessment of the latest upscaling efforts for gross primary production (GPP) and net ecosystem exchange (NEE) of the FLUXCOM initiative, where different machine learning methods and sets of predictor variables were employed.
Abstract: . FLUXNET comprises globally distributed eddy-covariance-based estimates of carbon fluxes between the biosphere and the
atmosphere. Since eddy covariance flux towers have a relatively small
footprint and are distributed unevenly across the world, upscaling the
observations is necessary to obtain global-scale estimates of
biosphere–atmosphere exchange. Based on cross-consistency checks with
atmospheric inversions, sun-induced fluorescence (SIF) and dynamic global
vegetation models (DGVMs), here we provide a systematic assessment of the
latest upscaling efforts for gross primary production (GPP) and net
ecosystem exchange (NEE) of the FLUXCOM initiative, where different machine
learning methods, forcing data sets and sets of predictor variables were
employed. Spatial patterns of mean GPP are consistent across FLUXCOM and DGVM
ensembles ( R2>0.94 at 1 ∘ spatial resolution)
while the majority of DGVMs show, for 70 % of the land surface, values
outside the FLUXCOM range. Global mean GPP magnitudes for 2008–2010 from
FLUXCOM members vary within 106 and 130 PgC yr −1 with the largest
uncertainty in the tropics. Seasonal variations in independent SIF estimates
agree better with FLUXCOM GPP (mean global pixel-wise R2∼0.75 ) than with GPP from DGVMs (mean global pixel-wise
R2∼0.6 ). Seasonal variations in FLUXCOM NEE show good
consistency with atmospheric inversion-based net land carbon fluxes,
particularly for temperate and boreal regions ( R2>0.92 ).
Interannual variability of global NEE in FLUXCOM is underestimated compared
to inversions and DGVMs. The FLUXCOM version which also uses meteorological
inputs shows a strong co-variation in interannual patterns with inversions
( R2=0.87 for 2001–2010). Mean regional NEE from FLUXCOM shows larger
uptake than inversion and DGVM-based estimates, particularly in the tropics
with discrepancies of up to several hundred grammes of carbon per square metre per year. These
discrepancies can only partly be reconciled by carbon loss pathways that are
implicit in inversions but not captured by the flux tower measurements such
as carbon emissions from fires and water bodies. We hypothesize that a
combination of systematic biases in the underlying eddy covariance data, in
particular in tall tropical forests, and a lack of site history effects on
NEE in FLUXCOM are likely responsible for the too strong tropical carbon
sink estimated by FLUXCOM. Furthermore, as FLUXCOM does not account for
CO2 fertilization effects, carbon flux trends are not realistic.
Overall, current FLUXCOM estimates of mean annual and seasonal cycles of GPP
as well as seasonal NEE variations provide useful constraints of global
carbon cycling, while interannual variability patterns from FLUXCOM are
valuable but require cautious interpretation. Exploring the diversity of
Earth observation data and of machine learning concepts along with improved
quality and quantity of flux tower measurements will facilitate further
improvements of the FLUXCOM approach overall.
••
TL;DR: The literature for studies that have explored the health impacts of several weeks of a reduction in physical activity and daily step-count combined with modified eating habits identify as main metabolic consequences increases in insulin resistance, total body fat, abdominal fat and inflammatory cytokines.
Abstract: While the detrimental effects of a chronic positive energy balance due to a sedentary lifestyle have been well established, the impacts of a short period of abruptly reduced physical activity and overeating arising from strict confinement due to the COVID-19 pandemic will soon start to emerge. To reasonably anticipate major consequences according to the available evidence, we hereby review the literature for studies that have explored the health impacts of several weeks of a reduction in physical activity and daily step-count combined with modified eating habits. These studies identify as main metabolic consequences increases in insulin resistance, total body fat, abdominal fat and inflammatory cytokines. All these factors have been strongly associated with the development of metabolic syndrome, which in turn increases the risk of multiple chronic diseases. A plausible mechanism involved in these impacts could be a positive energy balance promoted by maintaining usual dietary intake while reducing energy expenditure. This means that just as calorie intake restriction could help mitigate the deleterious impacts of a bout of physical inactivity, overeating under conditions of home confinement is very likely to exacerbate these consequences. Moreover, hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease have been identified as potential risk factors for more severely ill patients with COVID-19. Thus, adequate control of metabolic disorders could be important to reduce the risk of severe COVID-19.
••
TL;DR: With an increasing number of governments hardening nationwide quarantine, or considering various forms of lockdown in attempts to hinder the spread of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), a major problem emerges concerning the potential deleterious effects of physical inactivity due to personal restrictions.
Abstract: With an increasing number of governments hardening nationwide quarantine, or considering various forms of lockdown in attempts to hinder the spread of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), a major problem emerges concerning the potential deleterious effects of physical inactivity due to personal restrictions. According to the regulations recently set by the Italian government, for example, it is mandated that all citizens must remain at home unless required to move for valid reasons, such as work, health or for other unavoidable issues such as assisting those who are sick or disabled, or purchasing groceries and medications. Many companies and organizations have mandated telecommuting. All sporting events and competitions have been suspended or cancelled. However, one important exception has been made to allow people to practise sports and outdoor physical activity, provided that an interpersonal distance of at least 1 m could be maintained. This seems a reasonable compromise between the unfavourable health consequences associated with physical inactivity and the compelling need to contain the COVID-19 outbreak by avoiding social gatherings and other forms of personal contact. The World Health Organization (WHO) has established clear guidelines on the minimal amount of physical activity necessary to maintain adequate health and fitness. For example, it is recommended that adults aged between 18 and 64 years, the age group most affected by COVID-19 according to recent statistics (i.e. accounting for over 70% of all severe cases), should engage in weekly training of at least 150 min of moderate-intensity physical activity or 75 min of vigorous-intensity physical activity, or a corresponding combination of moderateand vigorous-intensity activity. Recent evidences also attest to the benefits of regular physical activity on survival. Leisure-time physical activity has been negatively correlated with the risk of cardiovascular mortality independently from age, sex and presence or lack of pre-existing cardiovascular disease. Physical fitness has been independently associated with risk of early cardiovascular death in the population aged 50 years or older, which suggests that physical fitness may not only modulate cardiovascular death risk, but that it may also be improved by practising regular physical exercise. Limited physical activity or, even more worrisome, inability to take a regular walk out of one’s home as a consequence of strict quarantine, may be associated with a kaleidoscope of unfavourable metabolic effects that would dramatically increase the risk of many severe and disabling disorders such as diabetes, cancer, osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. Reductions in physical activity may also affect one’s mental health, which may be experienced as unpleasant emotions such as sadness, anger, frustration and/or irritation. In a review on psychological impact of quarantine recently performed by Brooks et al., the authors stated that experiencing disease outbreaks can trigger symptoms of post-traumatic stress, depression and/or confusion, among others. A recent meta-analysis of prospective studies, totalling 36 investigations and over three million subjects
••
Charité1, University of Helsinki2, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart3, Erasmus University Rotterdam4, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust5, University of Graz6, University of Regensburg7, Boston Children's Hospital8, French Institute of Health and Medical Research9, Ankara University10, Sheba Medical Center11, University Hospital of Basel12, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven13, University of Valencia14, University Hospital Centre Zagreb15, University Medical Center Freiburg16, Medical University of Warsaw17
TL;DR: Key updates to these recommendations include a broader use of rabbit anti-T-cell globulin; lower steroid doses for the management of grade 2 acute GVHD with isolated skin or upper gastrointestinal tract manifestations; fluticasone, azithromycin, and montelukast should be used for bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome; and the addition of newer treatment options for resteroid-refractory acute and chronic GV HD.
••
TL;DR: Clinicians need to be more aggressive when treating obese, especially severely obese, patients with COVID-19, because obese patients also have worse outcomes with COIDs, including respiratory failure, need for mechanical ventilation, and higher mortality.
••
TL;DR: It is discovered that the human window of implantation opens with an abrupt and discontinuous transcriptomic activation in the epithelia, accompanied with a widespread decidualization feature in the stromal fibroblasts.
Abstract: In a human menstrual cycle the endometrium undergoes remodeling, shedding and regeneration, all of which are driven by substantial gene expression changes in the underlying cellular hierarchy. Despite its importance in human fertility and regenerative biology, our understanding of this unique type of tissue homeostasis remains rudimentary. We characterized the transcriptomic transformation of human endometrium at single-cell resolution across the menstrual cycle, resolving cellular heterogeneity in multiple dimensions. We profiled the behavior of seven endometrial cell types, including a previously uncharacterized ciliated cell type, during four major phases of endometrial transformation, and found characteristic signatures for each cell type and phase. We discovered that the human window of implantation opens with an abrupt and discontinuous transcriptomic activation in the epithelia, accompanied with a widespread decidualization feature in the stromal fibroblasts. Our study provides a high-resolution molecular and cellular characterization of human endometrial transformation across the menstrual cycle, providing insights into this essential physiological process.
••
TL;DR: In this paper, a review reinforces the benefits of active films and coatings incorporated with natural extracts, essential oils, natural polymers, protein hydrolysates, enzymes, and nanocomponents (materials and emulsions) to extend the shelf life of both fresh and processed meat and fish.
Abstract: Background Meat, fish and derived products are perishable food items with quick deterioration under improper storage. Edible films and/or coatings present an interesting approach to preserve and package these foods. These are composed of biopolymers generated from food industry wastes or underutilized sources of proteins, lipids, or polysaccharides that are biodegradable, edible and can act as carriers with active agents from natural sources. Scope and approach The protective effect of active films and coatings in meat, fish and derived products against quality decay during storage is described. This review reinforces the benefits of active films and coatings incorporated with natural extracts, essential oils, natural polymers, protein hydrolysates, enzymes, and nanocomponents (materials and emulsions) to extend the shelf life of both fresh and processed meat and fish. Key findings and conclusions Edible films and coatings with active components are suitable for the preservation of fish, meat and derived products. These packaging approaches enhance the storage period of these products by preventing moisture loss and purge accumulation; delaying microbial spoilage and restricting the growth of pathogenic microorganisms; slowing lipid, protein, and pigment oxidation; and prolonging the period that products are sensory acceptable. Moreover, active agents can also improve the sensory and quality characteristics of packaged products. The main concerns among consumers are awareness and safety whereas cost and large-scale preparation are the main concerns for professionals in the food industry. It can be concluded that edible films and coatings have promising future in preservation and packaging of meat, fish and derived products.
••
TL;DR: In this paper, the scalability of thermally co-evaporated MAPbI3 layers in perovskite solar cells and mini-modules has been demonstrated with a combined strategy of active layer engineering, interfacial optimization, surface treatments, and light management.