Data-Gouv-ML/pcri-informations-sur-les-projets-laureats huggingface dataset:
Exploring coherent neutrino-nucleus scattering with gram-scale cryogenic calorimeters (NU-CLEUS)

Framework: Horizon 2020 — Excellent Science
Programme: European Research Council (ERC)
Theme: European research council
Destination: Starting grants
Action type: ERC actions
Panel: Fundamental constituents of matter
Panel description: Particle, nuclear, plasma, atomic, molecular, gas, and optical physics
Countries involved: Germany
Call: ERC Starting Grant (ERC-2018-STG, 2018)
Start date: 2019-04-01
End date: 2025-03-31
Duration (months): 72.0
Total project cost (EUR): 1642500.0
EU funding (EUR): 1642500.0
Participants: 1
Project status: SIGNED

ν-cleus will be a new multi-purpose table-top experiment aimed at the first exploration of coherent neutrino-nucleus scattering (CNNS) at a nuclear power reactor. Our novel detector technology will achieve an unprecedentedly high sensitivity to new physics within and beyond the Standard Model of Particle Physics, with an enormous discovery potential. The new method is not only complementary to competing approaches, but superior in terms of performance, cost and size. The ultra-low threshold character of my experiment will allow a determination of the Weinberg angle at MeV-scale momentum transfers and the first direct search for eV-scale sterile neutrinos via CNNS. We will significantly improve the sensitivity for a neutrino magnetic dipole moment, unravel anomalies in the reactor antineutrino spectrum and test new models for exotic neutral currents. My research on gram-scale cryogenic calorimeters (gramCCs) has resulted in a recent breakthrough: we achieved the world-best energy threshold for nuclear-recoils of 19.7eV, one order of magnitude lower than for previous detectors. I propose to operate gramCCs within a fiducial-volume cryogenic detector. This completely new detector concept is suited for an above-ground operation of excellent performance while backgrounds are significantly suppressed. Located at a nuclear power reactor ν-cleus will achieve a signal-to-background ratio of ~10^3 - a unique situation in neutrino physics. This will enable a rapid discovery of CNNS within a few weeks. ν-cleus will have enormous impact on modern physics and future technologies. It will be a prototype for next-generation, high-precision solar neutrino experiments and guarantees a technological spin-off for reactor safeguards and non-proliferation measures. With this ERC grant I will set up a high-class research team with world-leading expertise in cryogenic detectors and low-background techniques, which will ensure Europe’s role as a pioneer in this new field.

Keywords: low temperature detector,coherent neutrino nucleus scattering,nuclear reactor,low energy neutrinos,sterile neutrino,neutrino magnetic moment,weinberg angle,reactor safeguards,solar neutrinos
Ultracold YbF molecules to measure the electron's electric dipole moment. (UCEEDM)

Framework: Horizon 2020 — Excellent Science
Programme: Marie-Sklodowska-Curie Actions
Theme: Marie Skłodowska-Curie
Destination: Individual Fellowships (IF)-Standard European Fellowships
Action type: Marie Skłodowska-Curie actions
Panel: Physics
Countries involved: United Kingdom
Call: Individual Fellowships (H2020-MSCA-IF-2019, 2019)
Start date: 2020-06-01
End date: 2022-05-31
Duration (months): 24.0
Total project cost (EUR): 212933.76
EU funding (EUR): 212933.76
Participants: 1
Project status: CLOSED

The project aims to show that the electron's electric dipole moment (eEDM) could be measured with an unprecedented precision of 10^{-31} e cm by using ultracold polar molecules. Such a measurement would be a demanding test of theories beyond the Standard Model of particle physics, and a search for the undiscovered forces responsible for the observed asymmetry between matter and anti-matter in the Universe. The key advance that will unlock this extraordinary sensitivity is interferometry with molecules cooled to ultracold temperature. I will make an intense, slow-moving beam of YbF molecules, which are known to be exceptionally sensitive to the eEDM. I will then apply laser cooling in both transverse directions to bring the temperature below 50 microkelvin, yielding a highly-collimated molecular beam. Next, I will build a spin interferometer using these ultracold molecules. Finally, by paying careful attention to noise sources, especially magnetic field noise, I will show that the interferometer can reach the sensitivity set by the quantum projection noise. Laser cooling of molecules is a new technique, and I will be the first to use it to enhance the sensitivity of a measurement that tests fundamental physics.
Circuit mechanisms for behavioral choice from complete CNS activity and connectivity maps (BICE)

Framework: Horizon 2020 — Excellent Science
Programme: Marie-Sklodowska-Curie Actions
Theme: Marie Skłodowska-Curie
Destination: Individual Fellowships (IF)-Reintegration panel
Action type: Marie Skłodowska-Curie actions
Panel: Life Sciences
Countries involved: United Kingdom
Call: Individual Fellowships (H2020-MSCA-IF-2018, 2018)
Start date: 2019-09-02
End date: 2021-09-01
Duration (months): 24.0
Total project cost (EUR): 212933.76
EU funding (EUR): 212933.76
Participants: 1
Project status: CLOSED

Behavioral choice is essential for an animal's survival, but the underlying neuronal mechanisms are poorly understood. A main obstacle is that the circuits involve many brain regions. Hence investigation necessitates the study of whole-brain connectivity and dynamics. Although the connectome structurally links all potential circuits, it is insufficient for constraining functional models and must be complemented by neuronal recordings during behavioral tasks. Furthermore to test models it is necessary to manipulate identified circuit elements. Recent advances in microscopy facilitate the acquisition of complete connectomes for small animals and support neuronal activity monitoring across entire brains. The challenge remains to directly combine these techniques in the same organism. We have developed a method for observing and identifying neurons with interesting activity patterns, whereby the same sample undergoes whole-brain functional imaging and subsequent electron microscopy imaging. We propose utilizing this approach to study the neuronal mechanisms of behavioral choice in Drosophila melanogaster larvae, an ideal model system for this work. We developed a paradigm to study the choice between one of five possible exclusive actions that occur in response to the same stimulus. The aim is to identify circuit mechanisms that promote one action while suppressing all others. Based on function, structure, and neurotransmitters, we will develop models for these competing circuit motifs. Specifically, we will correlate neuronal activity with each action and combine this information with connectomic data. We assume that the competing circuits interact by inhibition, which were described before in literature. These will be tested by genetic manipulation of specific circuit elements, which will alter the probability of certain behaviors. In conclusion, we combine functional and structural information in the same organism to study the neuronal mechanisms of behavioral choice.

Keywords: whole nervous system calcium imaging,electron mircoscopy,light sheet microscopy,behavioral choice
Green Electronics with Diamond Power Devices (GreenDiamond)

Framework: Horizon 2020 — Societal Challenges
Programme: Secure, clean and efficient energy
Theme: New knowledge and technologies
Action type: Research and Innovation actions
Countries involved: Spain,Spain,Germany,Spain,Spain,Belgium,France,France,France,United Kingdom,United Kingdom,Luxembourg
Call: New knowledge and technologies (H2020-LCE-2014-1, 2014)
Start date: 2015-05-01
End date: 2020-10-31
Duration (months): 66.0
Total project cost (EUR): 4443920.0
EU funding (EUR): 3983756.0
Participants: 17
Project status: CLOSED

The key to the efficient transmission and conversion of low-carbon electrical energy is the improvement of power electronic devices. Diamond is considered to be the ultimate wide bandgap semiconductor material for applications in high power electronics due to its exceptional thermal and electronic properties. Two recent developments - the emergence of commercially available electronic grade single crystals and a scientific breakthrough in creating a MOS channel in diamond technology, have now opened new opportunities for the fabrication and commercialisation of diamond power transistors. These will result in substantial improvements in the performance of power electronic systems by offering higher blocking voltages, improved efficiency and reliability, as well as reduced thermal requirements thus opening the door to more efficient green electronic systems. These improvements are expected to increase the efficiency of power converters by a factor of 4, yielding a 75% reduction in losses. In this context, the objective of GreenDiamond is to fabricate a 10kV transistor in a high power package, followed by a high voltage AC/DC converter based on such devices. To meet GreenDiamond’s challenging goals, the consortium gathers experts on power device design, diamond growth and characterization, packaging and testing as well as an innovative end-user. Most of the partners are also involved in SiC or GaN technology, allowing the project to benefit from their ample experience and achievements in wide bandgap semiconductors. As far as diamond transistor structure is concerned, unlike GaN and SiC, Europe still has a significant scientific and technological advantage over non-EU competitors. It is therefore extremely important to maintain the competitive edge that will lead the development of truly green electronics in the near to medium term future.

Keywords: power electronic,diamond,electric conversion
Positron Annihilation Detection Beyond the Limits (PALADIN)

Framework: Horizon 2020 — Excellent Science
Programme: Marie-Sklodowska-Curie Actions
Theme: Marie Skłodowska-Curie
Destination: Individual Fellowships (IF)-Standard European Fellowships
Action type: Marie Skłodowska-Curie actions
Panel: Physics
Countries involved: Netherlands
Call: Marie Skłodowska-Curie Individual Fellowships (IF-EF) (H2020-MSCA-IF-2014, 2014)
Start date: 2015-09-01
End date: 2017-11-30
Duration (months): 24.0
Total project cost (EUR): 165598.8
EU funding (EUR): 165598.8
Participants: 1
Project status: CLOSED

Given the growth and aging of the world population, innovative solutions for sustainable energy and health are needed. Novel technologies play an enabling role in the realization of such solutions. Better devices for the detection of annihilation quanta resulting from positron annihilation are an example. In material science these detectors are needed for research on renewable energies and innovative energy storage using Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy (PALS). In medicine they are required for diagnosis, staging, and treatment monitoring of diseases using Time-of-Flight Positron Emission Tomography (TOF-PET). In both fields time resolution is a key parameter. Sub-100 picosecond resolution is needed but not yet available. Improvement of time resolution, however, must not deteriorate other performance parameters. This project aims to overcome present physical limits. Monolithic scintillation crystals will be read out with digital photon counter (DPC) arrays coupled to each of its surfaces. Innovative data processing methods will be developed to eliminate the influence of scintillation photon propagation, currently the major bottleneck in large scintillation crystals that are nevertheless needed for high detection efficiency. We aim at coincidence resolving times (CRT) < 100ps FWHM, 10% energy resolution, 1 mm isotropic spatial resolution, and 90% detection efficiency. The detector will be incorporated in a PALS setup. After the performance has been characterized, it will be used for TU Delft’s materials research on renewable energy. The detector characterization will also serve as a proof-of-concept for application in clinical TOF-PET devices. The results are furthermore expected to be of relevance to fields such as high-energy physics. To investigate options for further improvement of the already unprecedented time resolution, studies will be done towards exploiting the Cherenkov-effect in a detector based on a hybrid Cherenkov/scintillation material.

Keywords: ultrafast gamma quantum detection,digital photon counting,positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy
Prostate cancer extracellular vesicles as biomarkers for nanomedicine treatment (PREVENT)

Framework: Horizon 2020 — Excellent Science
Programme: Marie-Sklodowska-Curie Actions
Theme: Marie Skłodowska-Curie
Destination: Individual Fellowships (IF)-Global Fellowships
Action type: Marie Skłodowska-Curie actions
Panel: Life Sciences
Countries involved: Netherlands,Canada
Call: Marie Skłodowska-Curie Individual Fellowships (IF-GF) (H2020-MSCA-IF-2014, 2014)
Start date: 2015-09-14
End date: 2018-09-13
Duration (months): 36.0
Total project cost (EUR): 228421.8
EU funding (EUR): 228421.8
Participants: 2
Project status: CLOSED

Prostate cancer (PC) is one of the deadliest types of cancer in males worldwide. Early stage PC is often curable but many patients develop castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), resulting in lethal end-stage disease. Prostate specific antigen (PSA) plasma levels have been traditionally exploited for diagnosis and prognosis. However, the application of PSA as a biomarker is associated with predictability issues. Advanced therapies are required for the treatment of CRPC, guided by a reliable companion diagnostic (CDx) test to monitor therapeutic efficacy. The aim of “PREVENT” is to co-develop a nanomedicine-based combination therapy for the treatment of CRPC and a CDx based on extracellular vesicles (EVs). I will employ tumour-targeted nanomedicines to deliver more drug to the tumour and reduce side effects when compared to free drug. The treatment comprises microfluidics-prepared lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) containing siRNAs that target genes involved in CRPC and LNPs loaded with the cytotoxic anti-cancer agent docetaxel to achieve synergistic therapeutic effects. For the CDx test, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have created excitement as possible biomarker candidates. EVs are released by cells as means of intercellular communication and can be detected in bodily fluids. The number of EVs and their composition is altered in CRPC, raising opportunities to exploit them in a CDx test. As EVs provide a fingerprint of their parental cell, EVs can be considered liquid biopsies, providing more information than standard biomarker measurements, and much less invasive than prostate biopsies. I will collect blood and urine samples during the preclinical evaluation of the proposed treatment for analysis using immunocapture and flow cytometry-based immunodetection platforms. The co-development of a nanomedicine combination treatment for CRPC and a CDx test is a rational strategy that has the potential to advance into clinical evaluation and ultimately improve patient survival.

Keywords: castration resistant prostate cancer,nanomedicine,targeted drug delivery,combination treatment,rnai,docetaxel,extracellular vesicles,biomarker,companion diagnostic test
Robust algorithms for learning from modern data (SEQUOIA)

Framework: Horizon 2020 — Excellent Science
Programme: European Research Council (ERC)
Theme: European research council
Destination: Consolidator grants
Action type: ERC actions
Panel: Computer science and informatics
Panel description: Informatics and information systems, computer science, scientific computing, intelligent systems
Countries involved: France
Call: ERC Consolidator Grant (ERC-2016-COG, 2016)
Start date: 2017-09-01
End date: 2023-08-31
Duration (months): 72.0
Total project cost (EUR): 1998750.0
EU funding (EUR): 1998750.0
Participants: 1
Project status: SIGNED

Machine learning is needed and used everywhere, from science to industry, with a growing impact on many disciplines. While first successes were due at least in part to simple supervised learning algorithms used primarily as black boxes on medium-scale problems, modern data pose new challenges. Scalability is an important issue of course: with large amounts of data, many current problems far exceed the capabilities of existing algorithms despite sophisticated computing architectures. But beyond this, the core classical model of supervised machine learning, with the usual assumptions of independent and identically distributed data, or well-defined features, outputs and loss functions, has reached its theoretical and practical limits. Given this new setting, existing optimization-based algorithms are not adapted. The main objective of this proposal is to push the frontiers of supervised machine learning, in terms of (a) scalability to data with massive numbers of observations, features, and tasks, (b) adaptability to modern computing environments, in particular for parallel and distributed processing, (c) provable adaptivity and robustness to problem and hardware specifications, and (d) robustness to non-convexities inherent in machine learning problems. To achieve the expected breakthroughs, we will design a novel generation of learning algorithms amenable to a tight convergence analysis with realistic assumptions and efficient implementations. They will help transition machine learning algorithms towards the same wide-spread robust use as numerical linear algebra libraries. Outcomes of the research described in this proposal will include algorithms that come with strong convergence guarantees and are well-tested on real-life benchmarks coming from computer vision, bioinformatics, audio processing and natural language processing. For both distributed and non-distributed settings, we will release open-source software, adapted to widely available computing platforms.
Shaping a European Scientific Scene : Alfonsine Astronomy (ALFA)

Framework: Horizon 2020 — Excellent Science
Programme: European Research Council (ERC)
Theme: European research council
Destination: Consolidator grants
Action type: ERC actions
Panel: The study of the human past
Panel description: Archaeology, history and memory
Countries involved: France
Call: ERC Consolidator Grant (ERC-2016-COG, 2016)
Start date: 2017-09-01
End date: 2023-08-31
Duration (months): 72.0
Total project cost (EUR): 1871250.0
EU funding (EUR): 1871250.0
Participants: 1
Project status: SIGNED

Alfonsine astronomy is arguably among the first European scientific achievements. It shaped a scene for actors like Regiomontanus or Copernicus. There is however little detailed historical analysis encompassing its development in its full breadth. ALFA addresses this issue by studying tables, instruments, mathematical and theoretical texts in a methodologically innovative way relying on approaches from the history of manuscript cultures, history of mathematics, and history of astronomy. ALFA integrates these approaches not only to benefit from different perspectives but also to build new questions from their interactions. For instance the analysis of mathematical practices in astral sciences manuscripts induces new ways to analyse the documents and to think about astronomical questions. Relying on these approaches the main objectives of ALFA are thus to: - Retrace the development of the corpus of Alfonsine texts from its origin in the second half of the 13th century to the end of the 15th century by following, on the manuscript level, the milieus fostering it; - Analyse the Alfonsine astronomers’ practices, their relations to mathematics, to the natural world, to proofs and justification, their intellectual context and audiences; - Build a meaningful narrative showing how astronomers in different milieus with diverse practices shaped, also from Arabic materials, an original scientific scene in Europe. ALFA will shed new light on the intellectual history of the late medieval period as a whole and produce a better understanding of its relations to related scientific periods in Europe and beyond. It will also produce methodological breakthroughs impacting the ways history of knowledge is practiced outside the field of ancient and medieval sciences. Efforts will be devoted to bring these results not only to the relevant scholarly communities but also to a wider audience as a resource in the public debates around science, knowledge and culture.

Keywords: history of astronomy,history of mathematics,manuscript cultures,middle ages
Innovative highly concentrated Omega-3 Specialized Nutrition Product (LIFEOMEGA)

Framework: Horizon 2020 — Societal Challenges
Programme: Food security, sustainable agriculture and forestry, marine and maritime and inland water research and the bioeconomy
Theme: Sustainable agriculture and forestry
Action type: SME instrument
Countries involved: Spain
Call: Stimulating the innovation potential of SMEs for sustainable and competitive agriculture, forestry, agri-food and bio-based sectors (H2020-SMEINST-2-2016-2017, 2016)
Start date: 2017-03-01
End date: 2020-11-30
Duration (months): 45.0
Total project cost (EUR): 2478024.46
EU funding (EUR): 1712046.88
Participants: 1
Project status: CLOSED

The objective of the project is the industrial and market development of a high concentrated Omega3 EPA nutritional product addressed to improve the health of cancer patients. LIFEOMEGA-cancer can be considered one chemotherapy essential nutrient co-adjuvant by overcoming: 1. The deficit of necessary level essential Omega3 EPA fatty acid by one efficient concentration and daily dosage (min 2.2 g EPA per day) 2. On a convenient way for the patient overcoming unpleasant fishy taste and with one unique delivery form The product is protected by IP and constitutes a unique product and solution, not present in the market. Moreover, it is flavourized, and being an emulsion, it can be conveniently delivered in other liquids. These features make the product a complete breakthrough Medical Food in the essential nutrition market, both in Europe and in the USA. Cancer patients receiving chemotherapy will be highly benefitted with LIFEOMEGA product; they can have their treatments (as cancer chemo/radiotherapy treatments) outcomes improved, their length of hospital stay reduced, and their quality of life during and after treatment increased. The high convenience allows the consumption of fewer dosages to achieve the targeted Omega3 levels. LIFEOMEGA has a great potential, as it is estimated that cancer patients recieving chemotherapy unfortunately won't be less than 1 millon / year during the next 11 years, in USA, Spain, France, Germany, UK and Italy.

Keywords: omega 3,nutrition,oncology,cancer,fatty acid,chemotherapy,radiotherapy,inflammation,emulsion,convenience,hospital,pharmacy,doctor,food,ingredient