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In this paper, we consider the hypothesis that fractions of dark matter could be constituted by primordial black holes (PBHs). To test this possibility, we work out the observational properties of a static black hole embedded in the dark matter envelope made of a PBH source. The corresponding modifications of geometry due to such a physical system are investigated, with a particular focus on the accretion disk luminosity in spiral galaxies. The impact of the PBH presence is analyzed through modification of the disk luminosity and kinematic quantities. Thus, we discuss possible constraints on the PBH abundance in view of the most recent theoretical bounds. The results of our study indicate that suitable PBH masses are $M_\text{PBH}\in[10^6,10^{12}]M_\odot$ for PBH fractions $f_\text{PBH}\in[10^{-3},1]$. In particular, a comparison with the predictions of the exponential sphere density profile for dark matter suggests that the best-matching configuration is achieved for $f_\text{PBH}=1$ and $M_\text{PBH}=10^6 M_\odot$. Consequences with respect to the current knowledge on primordial black hole physics are discussed., Comment: 10 pages, 6 figures, Accepted for publication in Phys. Rev. D

We consider non-local Integral Kernel Theories of Gravity in a homogeneous and isotropic universe background as a possible scenario to drive the cosmic history. In particular, we investigate the cosmological properties of a gravitational action containing the inverse d'Alembert operator of the Ricci scalar proposed to improve Einstein's gravity at both high and low-energy regimes. In particular, the dynamics of a physically motivated non-local exponential coupling is analyzed in detail by recasting the cosmological equations as an autonomous system of first-order differential equations with dimensionless variables. Consequently, we study the phase-space domain and its critical points, investigating their stability and main properties. In particular, saddle points and late-time cosmological attractors are discussed in terms of the free parameters of the model. Finally, we discuss the main physical consequences of our approach in view of dark energy behavior and the $\Lambda$CDM model., Comment: 9 pages, 2 figures, 2 tables. Accepted for publication in Physics Letters B

BackgroundMetabolic Acidosis (MA) is a disturbance of the acid-base balance that can occur in preterm and critically ill term neonates due to different etiologies. Intravenous sodium bicarbonate (SB) has been traditionally used to correct such unbalance, despite the lack of evidence about its safety and efficacy. In literature, reported undesirable effects of treatment with SB in neonates include worsening of intracellular acidosis, impairment of myocardial function, cerebral blood flow fluctuations and intracranial hemorrhage. A national survey was conducted by the Neonatal Pharmacotherapy Study Group of the Italian Society of Neonatology with the aim to assess and describe attitudes and practices concerning the use of SB, particularly for the treatment of MA in Italian NICUs.MethodsA questionnaire regarding treatment of MA and SB prescription habits was sent to the directors of 120 Italian NICUs from June 2017 to March 2018.ResultsThe survey response rate was 97.5% (117/120 centers). Findings showed that in 55% of the surveyed NICUs (64/117 units) it is common practice to correct MA with intravenous SB. On the other hand, the remaining 45% of the units try to solve the metabolic disturbances adopting different approaches (improving perfusion, adjusting ventilation parameters or increasing blood volume). Moreover, to prevent the occurrence of MA, 37.6% of the NICUs (44/117) include buffer salts (lactate, acetate or both) in parenteral nutrition prescriptions. SB is also used as a treatment for other conditions, mainly pathologies with bicarbonate loss and tubular acidosis (respectively in 53.8 and 32.5% of the NICUs).ConclusionThis survey showed how SB is a commonly used treatment for MA in more than half of Italian NICUs, with indications and prescription criteria that significantly vary across centers. Based on current knowledge, it is reasonable to suggest that the management of neonatal MA should be firstly directed to identify the underlying disorders. Thus, the use of SB should be reserved only for selected cases, also considering the severity of SB adverse effects and the lack of evidence about its efficacy. Guidance for the management of MA is required to harmonize practices and reduce the use of potentially inappropriate and unsafe treatments.

Cosmography becomes non-predictive when cosmic data span beyond the red shift limit $z\simeq1 $. This leads to a \emph{strong convergence issue} that jeopardizes its viability. In this work, we critically compare the two main solutions of the convergence problem, i.e. the $y$-parametrizations of the redshift and the alternatives to Taylor expansions based on Pad\'e series. In particular, among several possibilities, we consider two widely adopted parametrizations, namely $y_1=1-a$ and $y_2=\arctan(a^{-1}-1)$, being $a$ the scale factor of the Universe. We find that the $y_2$-parametrization performs relatively better than the $y_1$-parametrization over the whole redshift domain. Even though $y_2$ overcomes the issues of $y_1$, we get that the most viable approximations of the luminosity distance $d_L(z)$ are given in terms of Pad\'e approximations. In order to check this result by means of cosmic data, we analyze the Pad\'e approximations up to the fifth order, and compare these series with the corresponding $y$-variables of the same orders. We investigate two distinct domains involving Monte Carlo analysis on the Pantheon Superovae Ia data, $H(z)$ and shift parameter measurements. We conclude that the (2,1) Pad\'e approximation is statistically the optimal approach to explain low and high-redshift data, together with the fifth-order $y_2$-parametrization. At high redshifts, the (3,2) Pad\'e approximation cannot be fully excluded, while the (2,2) Pad\'e one is essentially ruled out., Comment: 17 pages, 3 figures, to appear in MNRAS

We consider gravity mediated by non-metricity, with vanishing curvature and torsion. The gravitational action, including an arbitrary function of the non-metric scalar, is investigated in view of characterizing the dark energy effects. In particular, we present a method to reconstruct the $f(Q)$ action without resorting to \emph{a priori} assumptions on the cosmological model. To this purpose, we adopt a method based on rational Pad\'e approximations, which provides a stable behaviour of the cosmographic series at high redshifts, alleviating the convergence issues proper of the standard approach. We thus describe how to reconstruct $f(Q)$ through a numerical inversion procedure based on the current observational bounds on cosmographic parameters. Our analysis suggests that the best approximation for describing the accelerated expansion of the universe is represented by a scenario with $f(Q)=\alpha+\beta Q^{n}$. Finally, possible deviations from the standard $\Lambda$CDM model are discussed., Comment: 6 pages, 2 figures, accepted for publication in Physics Letters B

In this paper, we consider a gravitational action containing a combination of the Ricci scalar, $R$, and the topological Gauss--Bonnet term, $G$. Specifically, we study the cosmological features of a particular class of modified gravity theories selected by symmetry considerations, namely the $f(R,G)= R^n G^{1-n}$ model. In the context of a spatially flat, homogeneous and isotropic background, we show that the currently observed acceleration of the Universe can be addressed through geometry, hence avoiding \emph{de facto} the shortcomings of the cosmological constant. We thus present a strategy to numerically solve the Friedmann equations in presence of pressureless matter and obtain the redshift behavior of the Hubble expansion rate. Then, to check the viability of the model, we place constraints on the free parameters of the theory by means of a Bayesian Monte Carlo method applied to late-time cosmic observations. Our results show that the $f(R,G)$ model is capable of mimicking the low-redshift behavior of the standard $\Lambda$CDM model, though substantial differences emerge when going toward high redshifts, leading to the absence of a standard matter-dominated epoch. Finally, we investigate the energy conditions and show that, under suitable choices for the values of the cosmographic parameters, they are all violated when considering the mean value of $n$ obtained from our analysis, as occurs in the case of a dark fluid., Comment: 11 pages, 3 figures, 1 table. Accepted for publication in General Relativity and Gravitation

Discrepancies between observations at early and late cosmic epochs, and the vacuum energy problem associated with the interpretation of cosmological constant, are questioning the $\Lambda$CDM model. Motivated by these conceptual and observational facts, extensions of Einstein's gravity are recently intensively considered in view of curing unsolved issues suffered by General Relativity at ultraviolet and infrared scales. Here, we provide a short overview of some aspects of $f(R)$ gravity, focusing, in particular, on cosmological applications. Specifically, Noether symmetries are adopted as a criterion to select viable models and investigate the corresponding dynamics. We thus find solutions to the cosmological field equations, analyzing the behaviour of selected models from the matter-dominated to the present epoch. Moreover, constraints coming from energy conditions and the so-called swampland criteria are also considered. In particular, we qualitatively discuss the possibility of $f(R)$ gravity to account for fixing cosmic tensions., Comment: 11 pages, 1 figure, Accepted for publication in EPJP

We propose a model-independent parametrization of dark energy motivated by thermodynamics. To this aim, we consider Pad\'e polynomials to reconstruct the form of deceleration parameter adequate to describe different epochs of cosmic history and divergence-free in the far future. The proposed scenario also fulfills the demand of structure formation and contains the $\Lambda$CDM model as a limiting case. Thus, a numerical analysis at both background and perturbation levels is performed through the Markov Chain Monte Carlo method in view of the most recent cosmic data. We then use the observational constraints to explore the features of dark energy evolution and compare our findings with the predictions of the standard cosmological model., Comment: 7 pages, 4 figures. Accepted for publication in Physics of the Dark Universe

We here propose a new model-independent technique to overcome the circularity problem affecting the use of gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) as distance indicators through the use of E_p−E_iso correlation. We calibrate the E_p−E_iso correlation and find the GRB distance moduli that can be used to constrain dark energy models. We use observational Hubble data to approximate the cosmic evolution through Bezier parametric curve obtained through the linear combination of Bernstein basis polynomials. In doing so, we build up a new data set consisting of 193 GRB distance moduli. We combine this sample with the supernova JLA data set to test the standard ΛCDM model and its wCDM extension. We place observational constraints on the cosmological parameters through Markov Chain Monte Carlo numerical technique. Moreover, we compare the theoretical scenarios by performing the Akaike and Deviance Information statistical criteria.the 2σ level, while for the wCDM model we obtain |$\Omega _m=0.34^{+0.13}_{-0.15}$| and |$w=-0.86^{+0.36}_{-0.38}$| at the 2σ level. Our analysis suggests that ΛCDM model is statistically favoured over the wCDM scenario. No evidence for extension of the ΛCDM model is found.

We heal the cosmological constant problem by means of a \emph{cancellation mechanism} that adopts a phase transition during which quantum fluctuations are eliminated. To this purpose, we propose that a generalized scalar (dark) matter field with a non-vanishing pressure term can remove the vacuum energy contribution, if its corresponding thermodynamics is written in terms of a \emph{quasi-quintessence} representation. In such a picture, pressure differs from quintessence as it shows a zero kinetic contribution. Using this field, we investigate a metastable transition phase, in which the universe naturally passes through an inflationary phase. To reach this target, we single out a double exponential potential, describing the metastable inflationary dynamics by considering suitable boundaries and thermodynamic conditions. We analyze stability investigating saddle, stable and unstable points and we thus predict a chaotic inflation that mimics the Starobinsky exponential potential. Consequently, the role of the proposed dark matter field is investigated throughout the overall universe evolution. To do so, we provide a physical explanation on unifying the dark sector with inflation by healing the cosmological constant problem., Comment: 13 pages, 3 figures, 2 tables

In Cosmology and in Fundamental Physics there is a crucial question like: where the elusive substance that we call Dark Matter is hidden in the Universe and what is it made of? that, even after 40 years from the Vera Rubin seminal discovery [1] does not have a proper answer. Actually, the more we have investigated, the more this issue has become strongly entangled with aspects that go beyond the established Quantum Physics, the Standard Model of Elementary particles and the General Relativity and related to processes like the Inflation, the accelerated expansion of the Universe and High Energy Phenomena around compact objects. Even Quantum Gravity and very exotic Dark Matter particle candidates may play a role in framing the Dark Matter mystery that seems to be accomplice of new unknown Physics. Observations and experiments have clearly indicated that the above phenomenon cannot be considered as already theoretically framed, as hoped for decades. The Special Topic to which this review belongs wants to penetrate this newly realized mystery from different angles, including that of a contamination of different fields of Physics apparently unrelated. We show with the works of this ST that this contamination is able to guide us into the required new Physics. This review wants to provide a good number of these “paths or contamination” beyond/among the three worlds above; in most of the cases, the results presented here open a direct link with the multi-scale dark matter phenomenon, enlightening some of its important aspects. Also in the remaining cases, possible interesting contacts emerges. Finally, a very complete and accurate bibliography is provided to help the reader in navigating all these issues, The original research described in this work has been partially funded by INFN through the IS QGSKY

In this paper, we investigate the cosmological viability of a double scalar field model motivated by warm inflation. To this end, we first set up the theoretical framework in which dark energy, dark matter and inflation are accounted for in a triple unification scheme. We then compute the overall dynamics of the model, analyzing the physical role of coupling parameters. Focussing on the late-time evolution, we test the model against current data. Specifically, using the low-redshift Pantheon Supernovae Ia and Hubble cosmic chronometers measurements, we perform a Bayesian analysis through the Monte Carlo Markov Chains method of integration on the free parameters of the model. We find that the mean values of the free parameters constrained by observations lie within suitable theoretical ranges, and the evolution of the scalar fields provides a good resemblance to the features of the dark sector of the universe. Such behaviour is confirmed by the outcomes of widely adopted selection criteria, suggesting a statistical evidence comparable to that of the standard $\Lambda$CDM cosmology. We finally discuss the presence of large uncertainties over the free parameters of the model and we debate about fine-tuning issues related to the coupling constants., Comment: 10 pages, 4 figures. Accepted for publication in Physics Letters B

In this work, we obtain measurements of the Hubble constant in the context of modified gravity theories. We set up our theoretical framework by considering viable cosmological $f(R)$ and $f(T)$ models, and we analyzed them through the use of geometrical data sets obtained in a model-independent way, namely, gravitationally lensed quasars with measured time delays, standard clocks from cosmic chronometers, and standard candles from the Pantheon Supernovae Ia sample. We find $H_0=(72.4\pm 1.4)$ km s$^{-1}$ Mpc$^{-1}$ and $H_0=(71.5\pm 1.3)$ km s$^{-1}$ Mpc$^{-1}$ for the $f(R)$ and $f(T)$ models, respectively. Our results represent 1.9\% and 1.8\% measurements of the Hubble constant, which are fully consistent with the local estimate of $H_0$ by the Hubble Space Telescope. We do not find significant departures from general relativity, as our study shows that the characteristic parameters of the extensions of gravity beyond general relativity are compatible with the $\Lambda$CDM cosmology. Moreover, within the standard cosmological framework, our full joint analysis suggests that it is possible to measure the dark energy equation of state parameter at 1.2\% accuracy, although we find no statistical evidence for deviations from the cosmological constant case., Comment: 10 pages, 3 figures, 3 tables. Matches the version published in PRD

The ability of metabolomics to provide a snapshot of an individual’s metabolic state makes it a very useful technique in neonatology for investigating the complex relationship between nutrition and the state of health of the newborn. Through an 1H-NMR metabolomics analysis, we aimed to investigate the metabolic profile of newborns by analyzing both urine and milk samples in relation to the birth weight of neonates classified as AGA (adequate for the gestational age, n = 51), IUGR (intrauterine growth restriction, n = 14), and LGA (large for gestational age, n = 15). Samples were collected at 7 ± 2 days after delivery. Of these infants, 42 were exclusively breastfed, while 38 received mixed feeding with a variable amount of commercial infant formula (less than 40%) in addition to breast milk. We observed a urinary spectral pattern for oligosaccharides very close to that of the corresponding mother’s milk in the case of exclusively breastfed infants, thus mirroring the maternal phenotype. The absence of this good match between the infant urine and human milk spectra in the case of mixed-fed infants could be reasonably ascribed to the use of a variable amount of commercial infant formulas (under 40%) added to breast milk. Furthermore, our findings did not evidence any significant differences in the spectral profiles in terms of the neonatal customize centile, i.e., AGA (adequate for gestational age), LGA (large for gestational age), or IGUR (intrauterine growth restriction). It is reasonable to assume that maternal human milk oligosaccharide (HMO) production is not or is only minimally influenced by the fetal growth conditions for unknown reasons. This hypothesis may be supported by our metabolomics-based results, confirming once again the importance of this approach in the neonatal field.

We apply the holographic principle in the cosmological context through the nonadditive Tsallis entropy, used to describe the thermodynamic properties of nonstandard statistical systems such as the gravitational ones. Assuming the future event horizon as the infrared cutoff, we build a dark energy model free from cosmological inconsistencies, which includes standard thermodynamics and standard holographic dark energy as a limiting case. We thus describe the dynamics of Tsallis holographic dark energy in a flat FLRW background. Hence, we investigate cosmological perturbations in the linear regime on sub-horizon scales. We study the growth of matter fluctuations in the case of clustering dark matter and a homogeneous dark energy component. Furthermore, we employ the most recent late-time cosmic data to test the observational viability of our theoretical scenario. We thus obtain constraints on the free parameters of the model by means of Monte Carlo numerical method. We also used Bayesian selection criteria to estimate the statistical preference for Tsallis holographic dark energy compared to the concordance $\Lambda$CDM paradigm. Our results show deviations from standard holographic dark energy within the $2\sigma$ confidence level. Finally, the analysis of the dark energy equation of state indicates a quintessence-like behaviour with no evidence for phantom-divide crossing at the $1\sigma$ level., Comment: 10 pages, 4 figures. Accepted for publication in Physical Review D

We here study extended classes of logotropic fluids as \textit{unified dark energy models}. Under the hypothesis of the Anton-Schmidt scenario, we consider the universe obeying a single fluid whose pressure evolves through a logarithmic equation of state. This result is in analogy with crystals under isotropic stresses. Thus, we investigate thermodynamic and dynamical consequences by integrating the speed of sound to obtain the pressure in terms of the density, leading to an extended version of the Anton-Schmidt cosmic fluids. Within this picture, we get significant outcomes expanding the Anton-Schmidt pressure in the infrared regime. The low-energy case becomes relevant for the universe to accelerate without any cosmological constant. We therefore derive the effective representation of our fluid in terms of a Lagrangian $\mathcal{L}=\mathcal{L}(X)$, depending on the kinetic term $X$ only. We analyze both the relativistic and non-relativistic limits. In the non-relativistic limit we construct both the Hamiltonian and Lagrangian in terms of density $\rho$ and scalar field $\vartheta$, whereas in the relativistic case no analytical expression for the Lagrangian can be found. Thus, we obtain the potential as a function of $\rho$, under the hypothesis of irrotational perfect fluid. We demonstrate that the model represents a natural generalization of \emph{logotropic dark energy models}. Finally, we analyze an extended class of generalized Chaplygin gas models with one extra parameter $\beta$. Interestingly, we find that the Lagrangians of this scenario and the pure logotropic one coincide in the non-relativistic regime., Comment: 6 pages, 3 figures

Standard sirens are the gravitational wave (GW) analog of the astronomical standard candles, and can provide powerful information about the dynamics of the Universe. In this work, we simulate a catalog with 1000 standard siren events from binary neutron star mergers, within the sensitivity predicted for the third generation of the ground GW detector called Einstein telescope. After correctly modifying the propagation of GWs as input to generate the catalog, we apply our mock data set on scalar-tensor theories where the speed of GW propagation is equal to the speed of light. As a first application, we find new observational bounds on the running of the Planck mass, when considering appropriate values within the stability condition of the theory, and we discuss some consequences on the amplitude of the running of the Planck mass. In the second part, we combine our simulated standard sirens catalog with other geometric cosmological tests (Supernovae Ia and cosmic chronometers measurements) to constrain the Hu-Sawicki $f(R)$ gravity model. We thus find new and non-null deviations from the standard $\Lambda$CDM model, showing that in the future the $f(R)$ gravity can be tested up to 95\% confidence level. The results obtained here show that the statistical accuracy achievable by future ground based GW observations, mainly with the ET detector (and planed detectors with a similar sensitivity), can provide strong observational bounds on modified gravity theories., Comment: 12 pages, 8 figures, 1 table. Matches the version published in PRD

The effective theory of the Anton-Schmidt cosmic fluid within the Debye approximation is investigated. In this picture, the universe is modeled out by means of a medium without cosmological constant. In particular, the Anton-Schmidt representation of matter describes the pressure of crystalline solids under deformations imposed by isotropic stresses. The approach scheme is related to the fact that the universe deforms under the action of the cosmic expansion itself. Thus, we frame the dark energy term as a function of scalar fields and obtain the corresponding dark energy potential $V(\varphi)$. Different epochs of the universe evolution are investigated in terms of the evolution of $\varphi$. We show how the Anton-Schmidt equation of state is capable of describing both late and early epochs of cosmic evolution. Finally, numerical bounds on the Anton-Schmidt model with $n=-1$ are derived through a Markov Chain Monte Carlo analysis on the combination of data coming from type Ia Supernovae, observations of Hubble parameter and baryon acoustic oscillations. Statistical comparison with the $\Lambda$CDM model is performed by the AIC and BIC selection criteria. Results are in excellent agreement with the low-redshift data. A further generalization of the model is presented to satisfy the theoretical predictions at early-stage cosmology., Comment: 13 pages, Accepted for publication in Phys. Rev. D

Adopting the Tolman–Oppenheimer–Volkoff formalism, we propose a new analytical solution for a static and spherically symmetric black hole where the cosmological constant is generalized to a non-isotropic Anton–Schmidt fluid acting as a unified dark energy–dark matter source. Our novel result can describe a black hole in energetic equilibrium with the surrounding universe. We thus investigate the interplay between the mass of the black hole and the parameters of the Anton–Schmidt equation of state, and physically interpret the solution as a family of space–time metrics that may describe both Schwarzschild–de Sitter black holes and naked singularities. The result opens a new window for further constraining the physical properties of the cosmic fluid using the Event Horizon Telescope results, which complement the analysis relying on classical cosmological observations.

The observation of GW170817 binary neutron star (BNS) merger event has imposed strong bounds on the speed of gravitational waves (GWs) locally, inferring that the speed of GWs propagation is equal to the speed of light. Current GW detectors in operation will not be able to observe BNS merger to long cosmological distance, where possible cosmological corrections on the cosmic expansion history are expected to play an important role, specially for investigating possible deviations from general relativity. Future GW detectors designer projects will be able to detect many coalescences of BNS at high $z$, such as the third generation of the ground GW detector called Einstein Telescope (ET) and the space-based detector deci-hertz interferometer gravitational wave observatory (DECIGO). In this paper, we relax the condition $c_T/c = 1$ to investigate modified GW propagation where the speed of GWs propagation is not necessarily equal to the speed of light. Also, we consider the possibility for the running of the Planck mass corrections on modified GW propagation. We parametrize both corrections in terms of an effective GW luminosity distance and we perform a forecast analysis using standard siren events from BNS mergers, within the sensitivity predicted for the ET and DECIGO. We find at high $z$ very strong forecast bounds on the running of the Planck mass, namely $\mathcal{O}(10^{-1})$ and $\mathcal{O}(10^{-2})$ from ET and DECIGO, respectively. Possible anomalies on GW propagation are bound to $|c_T/c - 1| \leq 10^{-2} \,\,\, (10^{-2})$ from ET (DECIGO), respectively. We finally discuss the consequences of our results on modified gravity phenomenology., 22 pages, 15 figures

Background Despite regionalization of perinatal care provides for the “in utero” transfer of high-risk pregnancies, there will always be a number of neonates who undergo acute inter-facility transport. The presence of a well-organized Neonatal Emergency Transport Service (NETS) can prevent and reduce risks of transportation, especially for very preterm infants, and is therefore mandatory for any program of regionalization of perinatal care. Italian National Health System is highly decentralized and Regions are autonomous to structure, plan and delivery their regional health services. Consequently, organization models and resources available vary widely and significant regional differences in access and quality of health services have been reported in the past years. A national survey was conducted in 2015 by the neonatal transport study group of the Italian Society of Neonatology with the aim to describe neonatal transfer practices and to assess the Neonatal Emergency Transport Services (NETS) status in the 20 Italian regions. Methods A questionnaire regarding neonatal transfer practices and NETS activity for the previous year (2014) was sent to the 44 NETS operating in the 20 Italian regions. Demographic data were obtained from the Italian National Statistical Institute (ISTAT). Results The overall survey response rate was 100%. In 2014, only 12 (60%) of the 20 Italian regions were fully covered by NETS, 3 (15%) regions were partially covered, while neonatal transport was not available in 5 (25%) regions. Overall, in 2014, the 44 NETS operating in Italy transported a total of 6387 infants, including 522 (8.17%) having a gestational age

Introduction: In the last years the uncritical attitude towards cesarean section (CS) has been associated with the fast emergence of ‘modern’ diseases such as early pediatric obesity, asthma, type 2 diabetes mellitus and dermatitis. Increasing evidence shows that babies born at term by vaginal delivery (VD) have a different physiology at birth, with subsequent influence on adult health. In relation to these short-term physiological changes, in the present study we aimed at assessing the influence of the mode of delivery in term newborns on the first 24 hours metabolism of neonates. Material and methods: This study was carried out on urine samples from 42 patients admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Unit and Neonatal Pathology of “S. Giovanni Calibita” Hospital Fatebenefratelli (Rome, Italy). According to the type of delivery, term neonates with similar gestational age and birthweight were divided in two groups: (1) born by spontaneous VD, (2) born by elective CS. Urine samples, collected at birth by a non-invasive method, were subjected to proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy. Results: CS newborns showed lower fatty acid omega oxidation, as evidenced by lower urinary excretion of dicarboxylic acids. This metabolic signature supports current evidence that babies delivered by CS have lower body temperature and perturbed thermogenesis. CS associates also with hypoglycaemia and altered endocrine profile, which linked to changes in central energy metabolic pathways (Krebs and Cori Cycles). Lung function may be reduced in infants born by CS, primarily due to delayed clearance of lung liquid, and surfactant insufficiency, which might be reflected in different urinary excretion of myo-inositol and choline – two intermediates in lung surfactant metabolism. Conclusion: Non-invasive urine metabolic phenotyping of children born by different mode of delivery provides relevant readouts to assess metabolic requirements associated with major physiological functions during this critical period of metabolic adaptation.

QUBIC, the Q & U Bolometric Interferometer for Cosmology, is a novel ground-based instrument that aims to measure the extremely faint B-mode polarisation anisotropy of the cosmic microwave background at intermediate angular scales (multipoles of = 30 − 200). Primordial B-modes are a key prediction of Inflation as they can only be produced by gravitational waves in the very early universe. To achieve this goal, QUBIC will use bolometric interferometry, a technique that combines the sensitivity of an imager with the immunity to systematic effects of an interferometer. It will directly observe the sky through an array of back-to-back entry horns whose beams will be superimposed using a cooled quasioptical beam combiner. Images of the resulting interference fringes will be formed on two focal planes, each tiled with transition-edge sensors, cooled down to 320 mK. A dichroic filter placed between the optical combiner and the focal planes will select two frequency bands (centred at 150 GHz and 220 GHz), one frequency per focal plane. Polarization modulation will be achieved using a cold stepped half-wave plate (HWP) and polariser in front of the sky-facing horns. The full QUBIC instrument is described elsewhere1,2,3,4; in this paper we will concentrate in particular on simulations of the optical combiner (an off-axis Gregorian imager) and the feedhorn array. We model the optical performance of both the QUBIC full module and a scaled-down technological demonstrator which will be used to validate the full instrument design. Optical modelling is carried out using full vector physical optics with a combination of commercial and in-house software. In the high-frequency channel we must be careful to consider the higher-order modes that can be transmitted by the horn array. The instrument window function is used as a measure of performance and we investigate the effect of, for example, alignment and manufacturing tolerances, truncation by optical components and off-axis aberrations. We also report on laboratory tests carried on the QUBIC technological demonstrator in advance of deployment to the observing site in Argentina.

International audience; QUBIC (the Q and U Bolometric Interferometer for Cosmology) is a ground-based experiment which seeks to improve the current constraints on the amplitude of primordial gravitational waves. It exploits the unique technique, among Cosmic Microwave Background experiments, of bolometric interferometry, combining together the sensitivity of bolometric detectors with the control of systematic effects typical of interferometers. QUBIC will perform sky observations in polarization, in two frequency bands centered at 150 and 220 GHz, with two kilo-pixel focal plane arrays of NbSi Transition-Edge Sensors (TES) cooled down to 350 mK. A subset of the QUBIC instrument, the so called QUBIC Technological Demonstrator (TD), with a reduced number of detectors with respect to the full instrument, will be deployed and commissioned before the end of 2018. The voltage-biased TES are read out with Time Domain Multiplexing and an unprecedented multiplexing (MUX) factor equal to 128. This MUX factor is reached with two-stage multiplexing: a traditional one exploiting Superconducting QUantum Interference Devices (SQUIDs) at 1K and a novel SiGe Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) at 60 K. The former provides a MUX factor of 32, while the latter provides a further 4. Each TES array is composed of 256 detectors and read out with four modules of 32 SQUIDs and two ASICs. A custom software synchronizes and manages the readout and detector operation, while the TES are sampled at 780 Hz (100kHz/128 MUX rate). In this work we present the experimental characterization of the QUBIC TES arrays and their multiplexing readout chain, including time constant, critical temperature, and noise properties.

QUBIC, the Q & U Bolometric Interferometer for Cosmology, is a novel ground-based instrument that has been designed to measure the extremely faint B-mode polarisation anisotropy of the cosmic microwave background at intermediate angular scales (multipoles of 𝑙 = 30 − 200). Primordial B-modes are a key prediction of Inflation as they can only be produced by gravitational waves in the very early universe. To achieve this goal, QUBIC will use bolometric interferometry, a technique that combines the sensitivity of an imager with the systematic error control of an interferometer. It will directly observe the sky through an array of 400 back-to-back entry horns whose signals will be superimposed using a quasi-optical beam combiner. The resulting interference fringes will be imaged at 150 and 220 GHz on two focal planes, each tiled with NbSi Transition Edge Sensors, cooled to 320 mK and read out with time-domain multiplexing. A dichroic filter placed between the optical combiner and the focal planes will select the two frequency bands. A very large receiver cryostat will cool the optical and detector stages to 40 K, 4 K, 1 K and 320 mK using two pulse tube coolers, a novel 4He sorption cooler and a double-stage 3He/4He sorption cooler. Polarisation modulation and selection will be achieved using a cold stepped half-wave plate (HWP) and polariser, respectively, in front of the sky-facing horns. A key feature of QUBIC’s ability to control systematic effects is its ‘self-calibration’ mode where fringe patterns from individual equivalent baselines can be compared. When observing, however, all the horns will be open simultaneously and we will recover a synthetic image of the sky in the I, Q and U Stokes’ parameters. The synthesised beam pattern has a central peak of approximately 0.5 degrees in width, with secondary peaks further out that are damped by the 13-degree primary beam of the horns. This is Module 1 of QUBIC which will be installed in Argentina, near the city of San Antonio de los Cobres, at the Alto Chorrillos site (4869 m a.s.l.), Salta Province. Simulations have shown that this first module could constrain the tensor-to-scalar ratio down to σ(r) = 0.01 after a two-year survey. We aim to add further modules in the future to increase the angular sensitivity and resolution of the instrument. The QUBIC project is proceeding through a sequence of steps. After an initial successful characterisation of the detection chain, a technological demonstrator is being assembled to validate the full instrument design and to test it electrically, thermally and optically. The technical demonstrator is a scaled-down version of Module 1 in terms of the number of detectors, input horns and pulse tubes and a reduction in the diameter of the combiner mirrors and filters, but is otherwise similar. The demonstrator will be upgraded to the full module in 2019. In this paper we give an overview of the QUBIC project and instrument.

Aim: To analyse antibiotic prescriptions in a cohort of extremely low birth weight neonates admitted to Italian level III Neonatal intensive Care Units. Methods: An online questionnaire was used to collect detailed information for each newborn. Antibiotic prescriptions were classified about their license status and compared with British National Formulary for Children (BNFC) and with a practical guide prepared by the Italian Society of Neonatology (ISN). Results: During the study period (May-July 2014) among 93 neonates admitted to 30 Italian Neonatal intensive Care Units, 56 (60%) received at least an antibiotic (92 prescriptions in total). Ampicillin, gentamicin and vancomycin were the antibiotics most commonly used for the prevention/treatment of bacterial infections. 56/92 antibiotic prescriptions (61%) resulted off-label mainly as regards dosing frequency, while 13 prescriptions (14%) regarded antibiotics used in absence of specific indication for newborns (meropenem, imipenem, piperacillin/tazobactam, clindamycin, clarithromycin). 50/56 neonates (89.3%) received at least one off-label antibiotic prescription. Differences have been observed in dosing regimens between current study and recommendations contained in BNFC, while prescriptions adhered more frequently to ISN indications. Conclusions: Our results confirm the high prevalence of off-label antibiotic use in ELBW neonates and underline a better adherence to indications based on clinical practice.

We study the growth rate of matter perturbations in the context of teleparallel dark energy in a flat universe. We investigate the dynamics of different theoretical scenarios based on specific forms of the scalar field potential. Allowing for non-minimal coupling between torsion scalar and scalar field, we perform a phase-space analysis of the autonomous systems of equations through the study of critical points. We thus analyze the stability of the critical points, and discuss the cosmological implications searching for possible attractor solutions at late times. Furthermore, combing the growth rate data and the Hubble rate measurements, we place observational constraints on the cosmological parameters of the models through Monte Carlo numerical method. We find that the scenario with a non-minimal coupling is favoured with respect to the standard quintessence case. Adopting the best-fit results, we show that the dark energy equation of state parameter can cross the phantom divide. Finally, we compare our results with the predictions of the concordance $\Lambda$CDM paradigm by performing Bayesian model selection., Comment: 14 pages, 12 figures, accepted for publication in Phys. Rev. D

International audience; Remnant radiation from the early universe, known as the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB), has been redshifted and cooled, and today has a blackbody spectrum peaking at millimetre wavelengths. The QUBIC (Q&U Bolometric Interferometer for Cosmology) instrument is designed to map the very faint polaristion structure in the CMB. QUBIC is based on the novel concept of bolometric interferometry in conjunction with synthetic imaging. It will have a large array of input feedhorns, which creates a large number of interferometric baselines. The beam from each feedhorn is passed through an optical combiner, with an off-axis compensated Gregorian design, to allow the generation of the synthetic image. The optical-combiner will operate in two frequency bands (150 and 220 GHz with 25% and 18.2 % bandwidth respectively) while cryogenically cooled TES bolometers provide the sensitivity required at the image plane. The QUBIC Technical Demonstrator (TD), a proof of technology instrument that contains 64 input feed-horns, is currently being built and will be installed in the Alto Chorrillos region of Argentina. The plan is then for the full QUBIC instrument (400 feed-horns) to be deployed in Argentina and obtain cosmologically significant results. In this paper we will examine the output of the manufactered feed-horns in comparison to the nominal design. We will show the results of optical modelling that has been performed in anticipation of alignment and calibration of the TD in Paris, in particular testing the validity of real laboratory environments. We show the output of large calibrator sources (50 ° full width haf max Gaussian beams) and the importance of accurate mirror definitions when modelling large beams. Finally we describe the tolerance on errors of the position and orientation of mirrors in the optical combiner.

A kinematic treatment to trace out the form of $f(R)$ cosmology, within the Palatini formalism, is discussed by only postulating the universe homogeneity and isotropy. To figure this out we build model-independent approximations of the luminosity distance through rational expansions. These approximants extend the Taylor convergence radii computed for usual cosmographic series. We thus consider both Pad\'e and the rational Chebyshev polynomials. They can be used to accurately describe the universe late-time expansion history, providing further information on the thermal properties of all effective cosmic fluids entering the energy momentum tensor of Palatini's gravity. To perform our numerical analysis, we relate the Palatini's Ricci scalar with the Hubble parameter $H$ and thus we write down a single differential equation in terms of the redshift $z$. Therefore, to bound $f(R)$, we make use of the most recent outcomes over the cosmographic parameters obtained from combined data surveys. In particular our clue is to select two scenarios, i.e. $(2,2)$ Pad\'e and $(2,1)$ Chebyshev approximations, since they well approximate the luminosity distance at the lowest possible order. We find that best analytical matches to the numerical solutions lead to $f(R)=a+bR^n$ with free parameters given by the set $(a, b, n)=(-1.627, 0.866, 1.074)$ for $(2,2)$ Pad\'e approximation, whereas $f(R)=\alpha+\beta R^m$ with $(\alpha, \beta, m)=(-1.332, 0.749, 1.124)$ for $(2,1)$ rational Chebyshev approximation. Finally, our results are compared with the $\Lambda$CDM predictions and with previous studies in the literature. Slight departures from General Relativity are also discussed., Comment: 10 pages, 6 figures. Accepted for publication in Gen. Rel. Grav

International audience; QUBIC, the QU Bolometric Interferometer for Cosmology, is a novel forthcoming instrument to measure the B-mode polarization anisotropy of the Cosmic Microwave Background. The detection of the B-mode signal will be extremely challenging; QUBIC has been designed to address this with a novel approach, namely bolometric interferometry. The receiver cryostat is exceptionally large and cools complex optical and detector stages to 40 K, 4 K, 1 K and 350 mK using two pulse tube coolers, a novel 4He sorption cooler and a double-stage 3He/4He sorption cooler. We discuss the thermal and mechanical design of the cryostat, modelling and thermal analysis, and laboratory cryogenic testing.

The limits of standard cosmography are here revised addressing the problem of error propagation during statistical analyses. To do so, we propose the use of Chebyshev polynomials to parameterize cosmic distances. In particular, we demonstrate that building up rational Chebyshev polynomials significantly reduces error propagations with respect to standard Taylor series. This technique provides unbiased estimations of the cosmographic parameters and performs significatively better than previous numerical approximations. To figure this out, we compare rational Chebyshev polynomials with Pad\'e series. In addition, we theoretically evaluate the convergence radius of (1,1) Chebyshev rational polynomial and we compare it with the convergence radii of Taylor and Pad\'e approximations. We thus focus on regions in which convergence of Chebyshev rational functions is better than standard approaches. With this recipe, as high-redshift data are employed, rational Chebyshev polynomials remain highly stable and enable one to derive highly accurate analytical approximations of Hubble's rate in terms of the cosmographic series. Finally, we check our theoretical predictions by setting bounds on cosmographic parameters through Monte Carlo integration techniques, based on the Metropolis-Hastings algorithm. We apply our technique to high-redshift cosmic data, using the JLA supernovae sample and the most recent versions of Hubble parameter and baryon acoustic oscillation measurements. We find that cosmography with Taylor series fails to be predictive with the aforementioned data sets, while turns out to be much more stable using the Chebyshev approach., Comment: 17 pages, 6 figures, 5 tables

We propose a model-independent formalism to numerically solve the modified Friedmann equations in the framework of $f(T)$ teleparallel cosmology. Our strategy is to expand the Hubble parameter around the redshift $z=0$ up to a given order and to adopt cosmographic bounds as initial settings to determine the corresponding $f(z)\equiv f(T(H(z)))$ function. In this perspective, we distinguish two cases: the first expansion is up to the jerk parameter, the second expansion is up to the snap parameter. We show that inside the observed redshift domain $z\leq1$, only the net strength of $f(z)$ is modified passing from jerk to snap, whereas its functional behavior and shape turn out to be identical. As first step, we set the cosmographic parameters by means of the most recent observations. Afterwards, we calibrate our numerical solutions with the concordance $\Lambda$CDM model. In both cases, there is a good agreement with the cosmological standard model around $z\leq 1$, with severe discrepancies outer of this limit. We demonstrate that the effective dark energy term evolves following the test-function: $f(z)=\mathcal A+\mathcal Bz^2e^{\mathcal Cz}$. Bounds over the set $\left\{\mathcal A, \mathcal B, \mathcal C\right\}$ are also fixed by statistical considerations, comparing discrepancies between $f(z)$ with data. The approach opens the possibility to get a wide class of test-functions able to frame the dynamics of $f(T)$ without postulating any model \emph{a priori}. We thus re-obtain the $f(T)$ function through a back-scattering procedure once $f(z)$ is known. We figure out the properties of our $f(T)$ function at the level of background cosmology, to check the goodness of our numerical results. Finally, a comparison with previous cosmographic approaches is carried out giving results compatible with theoretical expectations., Comment: 11 pages, 8 figures

We consider high-redshift $f(R)$ cosmography adopting the technique of polynomial reconstruction. In lieu of considering Taylor treatments, which turn out to be non-predictive as soon as $z>1$, we take into account the Pad\'e rational approximations which consist in performing expansions converging at high redshift domains. Particularly, our strategy is to reconstruct $f(z)$ functions first, assuming the Ricci scalar to be invertible with respect to the redshift $z$. Having the thus-obtained $f(z)$ functions, we invert them and we easily obtain the corresponding $f(R)$ terms. We minimize error propagation, assuming no errors upon redshift data. The treatment we follow naturally leads to evaluating curvature pressure, density and equation of state, characterizing the universe evolution at redshift much higher than standard cosmographic approaches. We therefore match these outcomes with small redshift constraints got by framing the $f(R)$ cosmology through Taylor series around $z\simeq 0$. This gives rise to a calibration procedure with small redshift that enables the definitions of polynomial approximations up to $z\simeq 10$. Last but not least, we show discrepancies with the standard cosmological model which go towards an extension of the $\Lambda$CDM paradigm, indicating an effective dark energy term evolving in time. We finally describe the evolution of our effective dark energy term by means of basic techniques of data mining., Comment: 11 pages, 14 figures, accepted for publication in JCAP

In this paper we describe QUBIC, an experiment that takes up the challenge posed by the detection of primordial gravitational waves with a novel approach, that combines the sensitivity of state-of-the art bolometric detectors with the systematic effects control typical of interferometers. The so-called "self-calibration" is a technique deeply rooted in the interferometric nature of the instrument and allows us to clean the measured data from instrumental effects. The first module of QUBIC is a dual band instrument (150 GHz and 220 GHz) that will be deployed in Argentina during the Fall 2018., Presented at the EPS Conference on High Energy Physics, Venice (Italy), 5-12 July 2017 Accepted for publication in conference proceedings

Reference data on trace elements, oxidative status and antioxidants in very low birth weight infants (VLBW) are limited and need to be updated for use in clinical settings. Serum and urine of 30 VLBW infants (mean weight, 1167g) at mean age of 23.8 (t0) and 37.8 (t1) days were analyzed. Cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), mercury (Hg), manganese (Mn), selenium (Se) and zinc (Zn), nitrate/nitrite (NOx), catalase (CAT), CuZnFeMn-superoxide dismutases (CuZnFeMn-SODs), total antioxidant capacity (SAC: sum of thiols, proteins, bilirubin, uric acid, β-beta-carotene, ascorbic acid, vitamin E) and total oxidative status (SOS: sum of lipo- and hydroperoxides) were determined. A higher urinary excretion of Cu and Zn was observed at t0 than at t1; while an increase in urine Cd was found at t1 respect to t0. A deficiency in serum levels of Cu and Zn was also found. A lower CAT activity, a higher total oxidants level (SOS) and a reduction of total antioxidant barriers (SAC) were observed in some infants. No Fe and Mn deficiency or Hg overload was found; also CuZnFeMn-SODs and NOx levels did not change. The findings showed that losses of trace elements and incomplete mineral body stores were more pronounced in the earlier life stage (at 23.8th day) than later on; moreover, antioxidant defenses were poor and lipo- and hydroperoxides were higher still at 5 weeks of infants' life.

A recent analysis of the Supernova Ia data claims a 'marginal' ($\sim3\sigma$) evidence for a cosmic acceleration. This result has been complemented with a non-accelerating $R_{h}=ct$ cosmology, which was presented as a valid alternative to the $\Lambda$CDM model. In this paper, we use the same analysis to show that a non-marginal evidence for acceleration is actually found. We compare the standard Friedmann models to the $R_{h}=ct$ cosmology by complementing SN Ia data with the Baryon Acoustic Oscillations, Gamma Ray Bursts and Observational Hubble datasets. We also study the power-law model which is a functional generalisation of $R_{h}=ct$. We find that the evidence for late-time acceleration is beyond refutable at a 4.56$\sigma$ confidence level from SN Ia data alone, and at an even stronger confidence level ($5.38\sigma$) from our joint analysis. Also, the non-accelerating $R_{h}=ct$ model fails to statistically compare with the $\Lambda$CDM having a $\Delta(\text{AIC})\sim30$.

We here propose a new class of barotropic factor for matter, motivated by properties of isotropic deformations of crystalline solids. Our approach is dubbed Anton-Schmidt's equation of state and provides a non-vanishing, albeit small, pressure term for matter. The corresponding pressure is thus proportional to the logarithm of universe's volume, i.e. to the density itself since $V\propto \rho^{-1}$. In the context of solid state physics, we demonstrate that by only invoking standard matter with such a property, we are able to frame the universe speed up in a suitable way, without invoking a dark energy term by hand. Our model extends a recent class of dark energy paradigms named \emph{logotropic} dark fluids and depends upon two free parameters, namely $n$ and $B$. Within the Debye approximation, we find that $n$ and $B$ are related to the Gr\"uneisen parameter and the bulk modulus of crystals. We thus show the main differences between our model and the logotropic scenario, and we highlight the most relevant properties of our new equation of state on the background cosmology. Discussions on both kinematics and dynamics of our new model have been presented. We demonstrate that the $\Lambda$CDM model is inside our approach, as limiting case. Comparisons with CPL parametrization have been also reported in the text. Finally, a Monte Carlo analysis on the most recent low-redshift cosmological data allowed us to place constraints on $n$ and $B$. In particular, we found $n=-0.147^{+0.113}_{-0.107}$ and $B=3.54 \times 10^{-3}$., Comment: 13 pages, 7 figures

(1)H-NMR spectroscopy coupled with multivariate statistical analysis was used for the first time to compare the urinary NMR metabolic profiles of neonates with intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) and large for gestational age (LGA). For the sake of comparison, infants who were adequate for gestational age (AGA) were also analyzed. Pattern recognition methods, including Principal Component Analyses (PCA), Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA) and Orthogonal Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (OPLS-DA), were used to analyze NMR data. Clear differences among the metabolic profiles of AGA, IUGR and LGA were observed. The main metabolites responsible for these differentiations were identified as myo-inositol, creatinine, creatine, citrate, urea and glycine. In particular, among these, myo-inositol may be a potential biomarker of an altered glucose metabolism during fetal development both in IUGR and LGA. This study highlights the applicability of NMR-based metabolomics for improving the understanding of the relations among nutrition, integrated metabolism and health in neonatology.

Background: Women in many countries are advised to use folic acid supplements before and early during pregnancy to reduce the risk of neural tube defects in their infants. This study aimed to update the prevalence and to identify possible determinants of preconception folic acid supplement use in Italian women. Methods: The study was based on cross-sectional data from seven maternity clinics located in six Italian regions from January to June, 2012. Data on maternal characteristics and supplement use were collected for 2,189 women using a self-administered questionnaire. Results: Preconception folic acid use was reported by 23.5 % (n = 515) of the participants. Of these, 479 (93 %) women had taken folic acid supplements on a daily basis as recommended by the health authorities. Women who both had intended their pregnancy and had requested a preconception health visit to a doctor/gynecologist were substantially more likely than the reference group to initiate folic acid supplementation before their pregnancy (48.6 versus 4.8 %). Preconception folic acid use was also associated with higher maternal age, higher education, marriage/cohabitation, lower parity, infertility treatments, and chronic disease. Conclusions: Data from seven maternity clinics located in six Italian regions indicate that preconception folic acid supplement use in many Italian women is low. Women who do not plan their pregnancy or do not request a preconception health visit to their doctor have among the lowest prevalence of preconception folic acid use. Improving folate status in these and other supplemental non-users may have important disease preventive effects. publishedVersion

In this study, a gas-chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) metabolomics study was applied to examine urine metabolite profiles of different classes of neonates under different nutrition regimens. The study population included 35 neonates, exclusively either breastfed or formula milk fed, in a seven-day timeframe. Urine samples were collected from intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), large for gestational age (LGA), and appropriate gestational age (AGA) neonates. At birth, IUGR and LGA neonates showed similarities in their urine metabolite profiles that differed from AGA. When neonates started milk feeding, their metabolite excretion profile was strongly characterized by the different diet regimens. After three days of formula milk nutrition, urine had higher levels of glucose, galactose, glycine and myo-inositol, while up-regulated aconitic acid, aminomalonic acid and adipic acid were found in breast milk fed neonates. At seven days, neonates fed with formula milk shared higher levels of pseudouridine with IUGR and LGA at birth. Breastfed neonates shared up-regulated pyroglutamic acid, citric acid, and homoserine, with AGA at birth. The role of most important metabolites is herein discussed.

We test the theoretical predictions of several cosmological models against different observables to compare the indirect estimates of the current expansion rate of the Universe determined from model fitting with the direct measurements based on Cepheids data published recently. We perform a statistical analysis of type Ia supernova (SN Ia), Hubble parameter, and baryon acoustic oscillation data. A joint analysis of these datasets allows us to better constrain cosmological parameters, but also to break the degeneracy that appears in the distance modulus definition between $H_0$ and the absolute B-band magnitude of SN Ia, $M_0$. From the theoretical side, we considered spatially flat and curvature-free $\Lambda$CDM, $w$CDM, and inhomogeneous Lema\^{i}tre-Tolman-Bondi (LTB) models. To analyse SN Ia we took into account the distributions of SN Ia intrinsic parameters. For the $\Lambda$CDM model we find that $\Omega_m=0.35\pm0.02$, $H_0=(67.8\pm1.0)\,$km$\,$s$^{-1}/$Mpc, while the corrected SN absolute magnitude has a normal distribution ${\cal N}(19.13,0.11)$. The $w$CDM model provides the same value for $\Omega_m$, while $H_0=(66.5\pm1.8)\,$km$\,$s$^{-1}/$Mpc and $w=-0.93\pm0.07$. When an inhomogeneous LTB model is considered, the combined fit provides $H_0=(64.2\pm1.9)\,$km$\,$s$^{-1}/$Mpc. Both the Akaike information criterion and the Bayes factor analysis cannot clearly distinguish between $\Lambda$CDM and $w$CDM cosmologies, while they clearly disfavour the LTB model. For the $\Lambda$CDM, our joint analysis of the SN Ia, the Hubble parameter, and the baryon acoustic oscillation datasets provides $H_0$ values that are consistent with CMB-only Planck measurements, but they differ by $2.5\sigma$ from the value based on Cepheids data., Comment: Accepted for publication in A&A, 9 pages, 7 figures

Preterm discharge effects: Relationship between the maternal experience and newborn's psychobiological regulation The purpose of this study is to investigate how the past experiences of mothers and their potentially traumatic events during pregnancy may have influenced the processes of psychobiological self-regulation and cognitive development in a child born preterm. Eighty children who had a gestational age of < 32 weeks were examined at the 9th month of the corrected age. The mothers and children were divided in two groups: multipara mothers and their children and the primipara mothers and their children. These children were examined on the basis of sleep disorders, nutritional problems and mental development. Perinatal data from clinical observations and data from standardized developmental tests (BSID, II ed.) were used to describe the differences. The children of primipara mothers who had unexpected preterm delivery presented major incidences of sleep disorders while the children of primipara mothers, who programmed preterm delivery, presented a major incidences of nutrition problems. The predictability of preterm delivery has a major influence on the capacity of newborns for self-regulation in the case of primipara mothers.

Although synaptic plasticity in the human cerebral cortex is governed by metaplasticity, whether a similar mechanism operates at brainstem level is unknown. In this study in healthy humans we examined the effects and interactions induced by pairing supraorbital nerve high-frequency electrical stimulation (HFS) protocols on the R2 component of the trigeminal blink reflex [Mao, J.B. & Evinger, C (2001) J Neurosci., 21:RC151(1-4)]. Changes in the R2 component were tested by pairing three different priming stimulation protocols inducing long-term potentiation (LTP)-like or long-term depression (LTD)-like effects (LTP-HFS and LTD-HFS), or no change (CONTROL-HFS) with a subsequent test LTP-HFS. Additionally, to examine changes in the R2 component induced by nonspecific factors, two CONTROL-HFS sessions were paired. Priming LTP-, LTD- or CONTROL-HFS potentiated, inhibited or left unchanged the area of the R2 component. Regardless of the type of priming LTP-, LTD- or CONTROL-HFS, the test LTP-HFS induced negligible differences in the R2 component. When two CONTROL-HFS sessions were paired, the test CONTROL-HFS increased the latency and markedly reduced the duration and area of the R2 component. The analysis of the normalized data across the first three experimental sessions, corrected for the inhibitory effects found in the fourth experiment, showed that the test LTP-HFS potentiated the R2 component area of the trigeminal blink reflex only when preceded by a priming LTD-HFS. We propose that homosynaptic metaplasticity might operate in the brainstem circuitry of the blink reflex.

Theta-burst stimulation (TBS) is currently used for inducing long-lasting changes in primary motor cortex (M1) excitability. More information is needed on how M1 is involved in early motor learning (practice-related improvement in motor performance, motor retention and motor consolidation). We investigated whether inhibitory continuous TBS (cTBS) is an effective experimental approach for modulating early motor learning of a simple finger movement in healthy humans. In a short task, 11 subjects practised 160 movements, and in a longer task also testing motor consolidation ten subjects practised 600 movements. During both experiments subjects randomly received real or sham cTBS over the left M1. Motor evoked potentials were tested at baseline and 7 min after cTBS. In the 160-movement experiment to test motor retention, 20 movements were repeated 30 min after motor practice ended. In the 600-movement experiment motor retention was assessed 15 and 30 min after motor practice ended, motor consolidation was tested by performing 20 movements 24 h after motor practice ended. Kinematic variables - movement amplitude, peak velocity and peak acceleration - were measured. cTBS significantly reduced the practice-related improvement in motor performance of finger movements in the experiment involving 160 movements and in the first part of the experiment involving 600 movements. After cTBS, peak velocity and peak acceleration of the 20 movements testing motor retention decreased whereas those testing motor consolidation remained unchanged. cTBS over M1 degrades practice-related improvement in motor performance and motor retention, but not motor consolidation of a voluntary finger movement.

Theta-burst stimulation (TBS) is a technique that elicits long-lasting changes in the excitability of human primary motor cortex (M1). Tonic contraction of the target muscle modifies the aftereffects of TBS, whereas interactions between phasic muscle contraction and the aftereffects of TBS are unknown. In this paper, we investigated whether phasic voluntary movements influence TBS-induced changes in M1 excitability. We examined whether a brief sequence of phasic finger movements performed by healthy humans before both intermittent TBS (iTBS) and continuous TBS (cTBS) influences TBS-induced aftereffects. Ten healthy subjects underwent iTBS and cTBS. To evaluate the TBS-induced aftereffects on M1 excitability, single TMS pulses were given over the FDI motor area before (T0) and 5 (T1), 15 (T2), and 30 min (T3) after TBS. To find out whether finger movements influenced the TBS-induced aftereffects, we tested motor-evoked potentials (MEPs) size by single TMS pulses at T0, immediately after movements, and at T1–T3. We also measured the kinematic variables mean amplitude and mean peak velocity of the movements. When no phasic voluntary movements preceded TBS, iTBS elicited facilitatory and cTBS elicited inhibitory aftereffects on MEP size. Conversely, movements performed before TBS elicited significant changes in the direction of the TBS-induced aftereffects. iTBS produced inhibitory instead of facilitatory aftereffects and cTBS produced facilitatory instead of inhibitory aftereffects. Finger movements alone had no effects on MEPs size tested with single-pulse TMS. Peripheral electrical stimulation had no effect on iTBS-induced aftereffects. Repeated phasic finger movements interfere with TBS-induced aftereffects probably by modulating mechanisms of brain metaplasticity.

We evaluated the effects of high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on motor performance and motor learning of a rapid index finger movement. Two groups of healthy right-handed subjects underwent either "real" rTMS (1800 stimuli over the first dorsal interosseous (FDI) muscle hot spot given at 5 Hz and intensity of 90% of resting motor threshold-RMT) or "sham" stimulation. Both groups performed 60 rapid abductions of the right index finger before and after rTMS. The kinematic variables measured were amplitude, duration, peak velocity and peak acceleration. We also evaluated RMT and motor-evoked potential (MEP) amplitude before, 5 and 30 min after rTMS. In both groups practice significantly increased peak velocity, peak acceleration and amplitude and decreased movement duration independently from the type of intervention ("real" and "sham"). "Real" rTMS significantly increased cortical excitability as measured by MEP amplitude whereas "sham" rTMS did not. In our study, 5 Hz rTMS failed to improve either the motor performance or the motor learning of a rapid index-finger abduction despite the increase in cortical excitability of the primary motor cortex. Since motor behaviour engages a distributed cortical and subcortical neuronal network, excitatory conditioning of the primary motor cortex is probably not sufficient to influence the behavioural output.