bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dual‐Proton Conductor for Fuel Cells with Flexible Operational Temperature
Authors: Li Wen , Liu Wen , Jia Wendi , Zhang Jin , Zhang Qi , Zhang Zhenguo , Zhang Jialin , Li Yunqi , Liu Yiyang , Wang Haining , Xiang, Yan , Lu Shanfu
Published: December 2023

The properties of proton conductors determine the operating temperature range of fuel cells. Typically, phosphoric acid (PA) proton conductors exhibit excellent proton conductivity owing to their high proton dissociation and self‐diffusion abilities. However, at low temperatures or high current densities, water‐induced PA loss causes rapid degradation of cell performance. Maintaining efficient and stable proton conductivity within a flexible temperature range can significantly reduce the start‐up temperature of PA‐doped proton exchange membrane fuel cells. In this study, a dual‐proton conductor composed of an organic phosphonic acid (ethylenediamine tetramethylene phosphonic acid, EDTMPA) and an inorganic PA is developed for proton exchange membranes. The proposed dual‐proton conductor can operate within a flexible temperature range of 80–160 °C, benefiting from the strong interaction between EDTMPA and PA, and the enhanced proton dissociation. Fuel cells with the EDTMPA‐PA dual‐proton conductor showed excellent cell stability at 80 °C. In particular, under the high current density of 1.5 A cm−2 at 160 °C, the voltage decay rate of the fuel cell with the dual‐proton conductor is one‐thousandth of that of the fuel cell with PA‐only proton conductor, indicating excellent stability.
Light and Magnetism Orchestrating Aquatic Pollutant‐Degradation Robots in Programmable Trajectories
Authors: Zhang Hongbo , Meng Lingzhuang , Zhang Yan , Xin Qiangwei , Zhou Yuhang , Ma Zhengxin , Zuo Liangrui , Zheng Chuyi , Luo Jun , Zhou Yahong , Ding Chunmei , Li Jianshu
Published: December 2023

Interfacial floating robots have promising applications in carriers, environmental monitoring, water treatment, and so on. Even though, engineering smart robots with both precisely efficient navigation and elimination of water pollutants in long term remains a challenge, as the superhydrophobicity greatly lowers resistance for aquatic motion while sacrificing chemical reactivity of the surface. Here, a pollutant‐removing superhydrophobic robot integrated with well‐assembled iron oxide‐bismuth sulfide heterojunction composite minerals, which provide both light and magnetic propulsion, and the ability of catalytic degradation, is reported. The motion velocity of the robot reaches up to 51.9 mm s−1 within only 300 ms of acceleration under the orchestration of light, and brakes rapidly (≈200–300 ms) once turn off the light. And magnetism extends the robot to work in broad range of surface tensions in any programmable trajectory. Besides, purification of polluted water is efficiently achieved in situ and the degradation efficiency exhibits eightfold enhancements under the effect of light‐triggered photothermal behavior coupled with magnetic induction, overcoming the dilemma of efficient motion with catalytic superhydrophobicity. This strategy developed here provides guidelines for the explorations of high‐performance smart devices.
Inducible transgene expression in CHO cells using an artificial transcriptional activator with estrogen‐binding domain
Authors: Rahman Md. Rashidur , Kawabe Yoshinori , Suzuki Kozumi , Chen Satoshi , Amamoto Yuki , Kamihira Masamichi
Published: December 2023

Biopharmaceuticals, including therapeutic antibodies, are rapidly growing products in the pharmaceutical market. Mammalian cells, such as Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, are widely used as production hosts because recombinant antibodies require complex three‐dimensional structures modified with sugar chains. Recombinant protein production using mammalian cells is generally performed with cell growth. In this study, we developed a technology that controls cell growth and recombinant protein production to induce recombinant protein production with predetermined timing. Expression of green fluorescent protein (GFP) gene and a single‐chain antibody fused with the Fc‐region of the human IgG1 (scFv‐Fc) gene can be induced and mediated by the estrogen receptor‐based artificial transcription factor Gal4‐ERT2‐VP16 and corresponding inducer drugs. We generated CHO cells using an artificial gene expression system. The addition of various concentrations of inducer drugs to the culture medium allowed control of proliferation and transgene expression of the engineered CHO cells. Use of 4‐hydroxytamoxifen, an antagonist of estrogen, as an inducing agent yielded high gene expression at a concentration more than 10‐fold lower than that of β‐estradiol. When scFv‐Fc was produced under inducing conditions, continuous production was possible for more than 2 weeks while maintaining high specific productivity (57 pg cell−1 day−1). This artificial gene expression control system that utilizes the estrogen response of estrogen receptors can be an effective method for inducible production of biopharmaceuticals.
Recurrent selection for Fusarium head blight resistance in a durum wheat population
Authors: Wang Runhao , Axtman Jason , Leng Yueqiang , Salsman Evan , Hegstad Justin , Fiedler Jason D , Xu Steven , Zhong Shaobin , Elias Elias , Li Xuehui
Published: December 2023

Fusarium head blight (FHB) is a devastating fungal disease of wheat. Since early 1990s, frequent FHB epidemics in major wheat‐growing regions have caused massive economic losses. Developing FHB‐resistant varieties is key to minimize the loss caused by the disease. In durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. ssp. durum), however, it is challenged by lack of resistant sources. Introgression of resistance genes from wild relatives and bread wheat has resulted in some durum wheat lines with moderate resistance. Due to its complex genetic nature, integrating more resistance genes with moderate and even minor effects promises to provide high and durable FHB resistance. In this study, a base population was developed using diverse resistant lines and elite durum wheat breeding lines as founders and went through three cycles of phenotypic selection from 2019 to 2022, with FHB severity decreased by 34%. Six S0:1 lines in Cycle 2 and Cycle 3 populations exhibited significantly lower FHB severity than the moderately susceptible check variety ND Riveland. The results suggested that recurrent phenotypic selection could effectively improve FHB resistance. Analysis of the founders and Cycle 2 and Cycle 3 populations with 2706 single nucleotide polymorphism markers indicated that there was little decrease in genetic variation due to selection. Genome‐wide association analysis found no markers significantly associated with FHB severity. Genomic prediction accuracies based on cross‐validation for FHB severity, plant height, and days‐to‐flowering were 0.51, 0.69, and 0.61, respectively. Recurrent genomic selection can shorten the select cycle to 4 months and therefore is promising to accelerate genetic improvement of FHB severity.
PF475 PROGNOSTIC VALUE OF METABOLIC TUMOR VOLUME AND TOTAL LESION GLYCOLYSIS CALCULATION ON BASELINE 18F‐FDG‐PET‐CT IN PATIENTS WITH HODGKIŃS LYMPHOMA AND ITS CORRELATION WITH CLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS
Authors: Bermúdez Ferro K.E. , Paredes E. , Garcia F.O. , Moreno Martinez M.L. , Lome Maldonado M.D. C. , Ramírez Ibarguen A.F.
Published: December 2023

Background:

Hodgkin Lymphoma is a neoplasm with remission high rates with conventional therapy, however 20% does not respond or has relapsing disease. Multiple strategies have been investigated to predict the outcomes to treatment, one of them is interim PET CT to predict progression free survival (PFS). Other parameters that can be measured are total lesion glycolysis (TLG) and metabolic tumor volume (TMV), which might provide useful prognostic information at diagnosis that in the future could be the base for new risk assesment models.

Aims:

To assess the prognostic value of TMV and TLG measured by 18FFDG PET‐CT at the time of diagnosis of HL and its relation to PFS.

Methods:

It was selected patients with recent diagnosis of HL between 2009–2015 in the National Institute of Oncology, with a PET CT at diagnosis. It was calculation of TMV and TLG at time of diagnosis using the syringo.via V8108 software. To define the optimal cutoff the ROC curve was established using SPSS software and Kapla‐Meier curves were generated for survival analysis followed by the long rank test.

Results:

We identified 144 patients, 11 were excluded do to loss of follow up. With male predominance (53%). Median age was 36 years (16–83). The most of patients had advanced disease (70%). All patients received AVBD and 74% radiotherapy as consolidation. Complete remission was 80%. According ROC curves the cutoff for TLG was 2650 cm3. The clinical differences between patients with high TGL has been showed in Fig 1. The median follow‐up was 54 months (4–115), 5 years OS and PFS were 82.5% and 70% respectively. High TLG was a significant prognostic factor with 5y PFS 62% vs 76% (p = <0.05). There was no difference in OS. In the univariate analysis other prognostic factor for PFS were extraganglionar disease (p = 0.045) and IPS prognostic scale above 3 points (p = 0.01). The cutoff for MTV was 350 cm3, however high MTV was not related to worse prognosis.

Summary/Conclusion:

In our population the cutoff for TLG were 2650 cm3 associated to lower PFS and more tumor burden. MTV was not associated with lower PFS as previous reports. Furthermore, there is a strong correlation between this results and clinical characteristics, thus, it can be used as a strategy to decide the first treatment line.

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PF484 MARKERS ASSOCIATED WITH SHORT SURVIVAL IN PATIENTS WITH WALDENSTRÖM MACROGLOBULINEMIA
Authors: Ruan G. , Abeykoon J. , Zanwar S. , Gertz M. , Ansell S. , Reeder C. , Ailawadhi S. , Dispenzieri A. , Dingli D. , Lacy M. , Go R. , Leung N. , Buadi F. , Gonsalves W. , Kyle R. , Rajkumar V. , Kumar S. , Kapoor P.
Published: December 2023

Background:

Waldenström Macroglobulinemia (WM) is a rare, indolent B‐cell lymphoplasmacytic malignancy. Patient outcomes are highly heterogeneous, with a proportion of patients surviving less than 5 years (short survivors) and another proportion that survive longer than 10 years. The laboratory parameters in the currently used International Prognostic Scoring System for WM (IPSSWM) include hemoglobin, serum IgM, platelet count, and serum β2‐microglobulin.

Aims:

We aim to identify unique patient characteristics and prognostic features associated with short survival in WM.

Methods:

The medical records of patients with active WM that were diagnosed at Mayo Clinic Rochester, Arizona, and Florida between January 1st, 1996 and December 31st, 2013 were reviewed. The patients with smoldering WM were excluded. Cohorts of patients who either survived ≤ 5 years (Short Survival Group) or those with an overall survival (OS) ≥ 10 years (Long Survival Group) from the diagnosis of active disease were compared. Survivors with a follow‐up of ≤ 5 years were not included in the analyses. Two‐sided Wilcoxon rank sum test and Chi square/Fisher's exact test were used to compare the continuous and categorical variables, respectively. The variables that were statistically significant on univariate analysis (P < 0.05) were included in a multivariate logisitic regression analysis.

Results:

Of 893 consecutively seen WM patients (median follow‐up of 9 years [95% CI 8.4–9.7]), we identified 387 patients who could be categorized into either the Short Survival Group (n = 171 patients, 44%) or the Long Survival Group (n = 216, 56%). The Short Survival Group had a median OS of 2.4 years (2.1–2.8) and median age at diagnosis of 73 years (42–93), while the Long Survival Group (n = 216, 56%) had a median OS of 18.9 years (16‐NR) and median age at diagnosis of 62 years (31–85). The baseline characteristics and significant findings between the two groups are listed in the Table. Parameters significant on univariate analysis included age >65 years, albumin < 3.5 g/dL, β2‐microglobulin >3 μg/ml, and LDH > upper limit of normal (ULN). On multivariate analysis, albumin <3.5 g/dL and LDH > ULN were independently associated with short survival. Among the Long Survivors, 60 (28%) patients survived 15 years or more.

Summary/Conclusion:

Lactate dehydrogenase above the ULN and serum albumin <3.5 g/dL are independent biomarkers of short survival in WM. The MYD88
L265P status and the size of serum IgM are not prognostic in WM. Our data suggest the need for simplification of the current staging system with the use of widely available markers: serum albumin and lactate dehydrogenase.

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PF490 PRESENCE OF BRAFV600E MUTATION IN CHILDHOOD LCH CORRELATES WITH MULTISYSTEM DISEASE AND A POOR SURVIVAL
Authors: Bhatia P. , Singh M. , Srinivasan R. , Kakkar N. , Trehan A. , Bansal D.
Published: December 2023

Background:

Reports in LCH have observed BRAFV600E mutation in 35–40% cases of LCH and have demonstrated its relation with poor outcome.

Aims:

The aim of the study was to detect the presence of BRAFV600E mutation in children with LCH and to correlate with survival.

Methods:

Retrospective, Single centre, Case‐control study. Biopsy or FNAC diagnosed and immunochemistry confirmed (CD1a and S‐100 +ve) cases of LCH over 5‐years were retrieved. RQ‐PCR as well as Sanger sequencing for BRAFV600E mutation was performed. Ten cases of non‐LCH histiocytic proliferations were run as controls.

Results:

Thirty‐five LCH cases enrolled. 4 cases were excluded due to poor quality of DNA and 2 due to lack of follow up. The mean age was 2.5 years (0.4–11 yrs). Unisystem involvement was noted in 13/28 (46.5%) cases and multisystem in 15/28 (53.5%), including 13 with risk organ involvement. Of the 28 samples run on RQ‐PCR, BRAFV600E mutation was identified in 6/28 (21%) cases. The copy number threshold (Ct) values of positive cases ranged from 25.8–34.1 with a mean of 30.2. Sanger sequencing in all 28 samples confirmed positivity in 5/6 cases. One case did not yield reportable reads. There were no false negatives noted. Ten events (36%) were recorded, including 4 (14%) disease relapse, 3 (11%) deaths and 3 (11%) with progressive disease. All patients positive for mutation had multisystem involvement (100%) (p 0.0348), an EFS at 3‐years of 17% vs. 72% in negative group (p 0.0110) and an OS of 32.5% vs. 82% (p 0.0330). The lower BRAFV600E positivity than west could be likely due to archival samples and degraded DNA.

Summary/Conclusion:

The frequency for BRAFV600E positivity was low (21%), however, all positive cases had multisystem involvement and a poor 3‐year survival, confirming BRAFV600E to be a poor prognostic marker.

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Neonatal resveratrol administration promotes skeletal muscle growth and insulin sensitivity in intrauterine growth‐retarded suckling piglets associated with activation of FGF21–AMPKα pathway
Authors: Bai Guangyi , Chen Jinyong , Liu Yue , Chen Jun , Yan Honglin , You Jinming , Zou Tiande
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

Skeletal muscle is a major insulin‐sensitive tissue with a pivotal role in modulating glucose homeostasis. This study aimed to investigate the effect of resveratrol (RES) intervention during the suckling period on skeletal muscle growth and insulin sensitivity of neonates with intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) in a pig model.

RESULTS

Twelve pairs of normal birth weight (NBW) and IUGR neonatal male piglets were selected. The NBW and IUGR piglets were fed basal formula milk diet or identical diet supplemented with 0.1% RES from 7 to 21 days of age. Myofiber growth and differentiation, inflammation and insulin sensitivity in skeletal muscle were assessed. Early RES intervention promoted myofiber growth and maturity in IUGR piglets by ameliorating the myogenesis process and increasing thyroid hormone level. Administering RES also reduced triglyceride concentration in skeletal muscle of IUGR piglets, along with decreased inflammatory response, increased plasma fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) concentration and improved insulin signaling. Meanwhile, the improvement of insulin sensitivity by RES may be partly regulated by activation of the FGF21/AMP‐activated protein kinase α/sirtuin 1/peroxisome proliferator activated receptor‐γ coactivator‐1α pathway.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that RES has beneficial effects in promoting myofiber growth and maturity and increasing skeletal muscle insulin sensitivity in IUGR piglets, which open a novel field of application of RES in IUGR infants for improving postnatal metabolic adaptation. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Effects of long‐term different‐scale rice–duck farming on the growth and yield of paddy rice
Authors: Yang Chaoran , Han Ning , Liu Mengting , Wei Chenghao , Mao Ruilin , Chen Changqing
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

To maintain rice production and increase revenue, rice–duck (RD) farming is a contemporary ecological cycle technology that has been widely used in Asia. However, due to the clustering activity of duck flocks, the consequences of long‐term RD farming on rice growth at different scales are still unknown. Here, we studied RD farming using several different treatments (CK: conventional rice farming; RD1: 667 m2; RD2: 2000 m2; and RD3: 3333 m2).

RESULTS

The results demonstrated that the maximum tillers, effective spikes, dry matter accumulation, and lodging index of rice under RD farming were significantly decreased by 17.9%, 9.8%, 14.8%, and 17.8%, respectively, which ultimately caused a significant decrease in yield of 10.6%. However, RD farming significantly increased root oxidation activity and the ear‐bearing tiller rate of rice by 25.5% and 11.1%, respectively, and improved yield stability. For different scales of RD farming, the lodging resistance index of RD1 was significantly lower than that of RD2 and RD3 by 10.0% and 15.2%, respectively, whereas the root oxidation activity and dry matter accumulation of RD2 were significantly higher than those of RD1 and RD3 by 11.1%, 4.7%, 8.6%, and 5.1%, respectively. For rice yield, there was no significant difference among the different scales.

CONCLUSION

This long‐term experiment helped elucidate the complicated effects of RD farming at different scales on the growth and yield of rice. It is also critical to consider the economic advantages of different scales of RD farming to assess the impact of this system more thoroughly. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Preparation and performance optimization in high‐voltage cable semiconductive shielding layer for polyolefin composite based on multifractal analysis
Authors: Zhang Yonghai , Zhang Leigang , Liu Yong , Wu Tan , Chen Yuhui , Bai Baofeng , Luo Qi
Published: December 2023

In this study, the semiconductive shielding composite was prepared successfully using the melt mixing method. The effects of combining multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) and carbon black (CB) into polyolefin plasticizers/ethylene vinyl acetate/linear low density polyethylene matrix on the mechanical performances, electrical conductivity, and processing rheological properties of the samples were investigated. The research results indicate that adding MWCNT to the prepared semiconductive shielding composite can form a complete conductive network, and its synergistic effect with CB jointly improves the conductivity of the composite material. Compared with the absence of MWCNT, its bulk resistivity decreased from 1.61 W • cm to 0.89 W • cm, a decrease of 44.7%. At the same time, the prepared semiconductive shielding composite has excellent mechanical and processing performances. The elongation at break, maximum tensile strength, and elastic modulus of the composites were increased by 30.9%, 17.9%, and 4.9%, respectively. Based on multifractal analysis, by adjusting the content of MWCNT in composite and optimized processing paths, the distribution and microstructure of MWCNT in composite can be optimized to obtain adjustable mechanical and processing rheological properties. This study presents a guiding approach for designing and developing functional composites requiring adjustable mechanical performances.

Highlights

The semiconductive shielding composite was prepared successfully.

The prepared composite has excellent mechanical and processing performances.

Multiwall carbon nanotubes with carbon black can form conductive network.

The microstructure can be optimized by quantitative characterization of the morphology.
The effect of different GNP/BNNP foam structures in the infiltration of epoxy resin: A fundamental study
Authors: Benedetti L. , Orikasa K. , Agarwal A.
Published: December 2023

Hierarchical 3D architecture of nanoplatelets, also known as foams, has arisen as a promising alternative to overcome agglomeration and promote mechanical reinforcement and electrical and thermal conductivity of polymer composites. Freeze‐drying is a cost‐effective method to manufacture foams with different structures and tailored thermal and electrical properties. This study used freeze‐drying to produce graphene (GNP), boron‐nitride (BNNP), and hybrid foams of different ratios. The interaction between these structures and high‐temperature epoxy grade was investigated via contact angle analysis. The foams were also infiltrated with epoxy to achieve a fully dense nanocomposite. The contact angle monitoring reveals solid loading content, composition, and structure as the main factors affecting wettability. Despite the slight variation in porosity among the foams, all the samples achieved a densification above 96%, suggesting that the epoxy viscosity of 2.34 Pa∙s combined with optimized infiltration parameters can successfully produce dense nanocomposites. The contact angle analysis is a suitable method to compare the infiltration quality of freeze‐dried foams and can be applied to evaluate the production feasibility of other polymer/foam nanocomposites. Furthermore, preliminary thermal data shows a clear temperature increase for the epoxy/foam structures, with GNP and 50:50 GNP:BNNP being the most thermally conductive compositions. This study serves as a starting point for freeze‐dried foams/polymer nanocomposite investigation and may broaden the possibilities for manufacturing and future application of these structures.

Highlights

The freeze‐dried foams were successfully fabricated and infiltrated with high‐temperature epoxy, obtaining densifications above 96%.

The main factors affecting infiltration are foam morphology, porosity, and chemical affinity between polymer and foam platelets.

Thermal conductivity has significantly improved by adding GNP and BNNP foam network to epoxy matrix.
Structural characterization of the Sel1‐like repeat protein LceB from Legionella pneumophila
Authors: Penner Tiffany V. , Lorente Cobo Neil , Patel Deepak T. , Patel Dhruvin H. , Savchenko Alexei , Brassinga Ann Karen C. , Prehna Gerd
Published: December 2023

Legionella are freshwater Gram‐negative bacteria that in their normal environment infect protozoa. However, this adaptation also allows Legionella to infect human alveolar macrophages and cause pneumonia. Central to Legionella pathogenesis are more than 330 secreted effectors, of which there are nine core effectors that are conserved in all pathogenic species. Despite their importance, the biochemical function of several core effectors remains unclear. To address this, we have taken a structural approach to characterize the core effector of unknown function LceB, or Lpg1356, from Legionella pneumophila. Here, we solve an X‐ray crystal structure of LceB using an AlphaFold model for molecular replacement. The experimental structure shows that LceB adopts a Sel1‐like repeat (SLR) fold as predicted. However, the crystal structure captured multiple conformations of LceB, all of which differed from the AlphaFold model. A comparison of the predicted model and the experimental models suggests that LceB is highly flexible in solution. Additionally, the molecular analysis of LceB using its close structural homologs reveals sequence and structural motifs of known biochemical function. Specifically, LceB harbors a repeated KAAEQG motif that both stabilizes the SLR fold and is known to participate in protein–protein interactions with eukaryotic host proteins. We also observe that LceB forms several higher‐order oligomers in solution. Overall, our results have revealed that LceB has conformational flexibility, self‐associates, and contains a molecular surface for binding a target host‐cell protein. Additionally, our data provides structural insights into the SLR family of proteins that remain poorly studied.
On-Shell Techniques for Tree-Level Amplitudes
Authors: Badger Simon , Henn Johannes , Plefka Jan Christoph , Zoia Simone
Published: December 2023

In this chapter we focus on the pole structure of tree-level amplitudes. We argue that amplitudes factorise on these poles into lower-point amplitudes. Moreover, universal factorisation structures emerge when two momenta become collinear as well as in the limit of low energy of a single particle—the soft limit. These factorisation properties are the basis of an efficient technique for computing tree-level scattering amplitudes in gauge theories and gravity recursively—without ever referring to Feynman rules or even a Lagrangian. These recursion relations use as input lower-point amplitudes, so that the gauge redundancy, which is partly responsible for the complexity of conventional Feynman graph calculations, is absent in this entirely on-shell based formalism. We then show the invariance of scattering amplitudes under Poincaré transformations, and introduce the conformal symmetry of gauge-theory tree-level amplitudes. Finally, we highlight a surprising double-copy relation between gluon and graviton amplitudes.
Loop Integrands and Amplitudes
Authors: Badger Simon , Henn Johannes , Plefka Jan Christoph , Zoia Simone
Published: December 2023

In this chapter we study the structure of loop-level scattering amplitudes. The appearance of integrals over internal loop momenta gives rise to a new set of functions that go beyond the rational functions of spinor products seen at tree-level. We will use the unitarity of scattering amplitudes to show that discontinuities in loop amplitudes can be determined from tree-level information as a result of factorisation when loop momentum dependent propagators go on-shell. We then show that generalised discontinuities can be used to break loop amplitudes further into small tree-level building blocks. We then turn our attention to a general method for one-loop dimensionally regulated amplitudes in which a basis of functions is determined as well as a technique to determine their coefficients from on-shell data.
The IRR Applied to Housing: Governing Densification for Socially Sustainable Housing Development
Authors: Debrunner Gabriela
Published: December 2023

The central goal of this book is not just to make the claim about densification leading to social exclusionand gentrification in housing, but rather to explain—with the help of the IRRanalytical framework (see Chapter 2) —what local governance mechanisms at play are responsible for this development and to identify the reasons behind this complex situation. To accomplish this aim, three theoretical blocks were identified that help to understand densification from a neoinstitutional and actor-centered perspective: social sustainability in housing (dependent variable), institutions (independent variable), and actors’ use strategies (intermediary variable (see Chapter 2 for theoretical basis). At the end of Chapter 3, five research hypotheses are presented, which address all the main dimensions needed to cover the main research question in a convincing manner.
Selecting Switzerland
Authors: Debrunner Gabriela
Published: December 2023

The study design of this book is based on four case studies located in Switzerland: the four cities—Zurich, Basel, Köniz, and Kloten—where a concrete densification area is analyzed. Through this case study design, objectives of broadness of scope and analytical depth are reached. Chapter 4 entangles what is specific to each case study and which observations are of broader significance. First, the Swiss context of the empirical analysis is described, then the detailed reasons for case selection, as well as the different data collection and analysis methods applied. Lastly, this chapter is concluded by reflecting upon the researcher’s own positionality in the research process and the various challenges encountered in the field.
Discussion of Results
Authors: Debrunner Gabriela
Published: December 2023

The results of this book extend the knowledge about why some groups or interests experience disproportional access to housing stocks in densifying urban areas, and tend to lose while others tend to win. In the concluding part, the key results answering the three sub-questions (SQ1 to SQ3) are presented. Results are discussed that contribute to neoinstitutionalist political ecology research. This chapter and chapter 7 close with the findings that answer the main research question (RQ) and rich conclusions supporting the point of this book, i.e. that densification has become a business, which creates exclusion and marginalization for some part of the urban population. Although results are limited to Switzerland, potential for generalization to other states and urban contexts results from the identified key results and causal mechanisms. Finally, the limitations of the theoretical and methodological model applied are discussed (Sect. 7.2), and an outlook for future research is presented (Sect. 7.3).
Modular geodesics and wedge domains in non-compactly causal symmetric spaces
Authors: Morinelli Vincenzo , Neeb Karl-Hermann , Ólafsson Gestur
Published: December 2023

We continue our investigation of the interplay between causal structures on symmetric spaces and geometric aspects of Algebraic Quantum Field Theory. We adopt the perspective that the geometric implementation of the modular group is given by the flow generated by an Euler element of the Lie algebra (an element defining a 3-grading). Since any Euler element of a semisimple Lie algebra specifies a canonical non-compactly causal symmetric space $$M = G/H$$

M
=
G
/
H

, we turn in this paper to the geometry of this flow. Our main results concern the positivity region W of the flow (the corresponding wedge region): If G has trivial center, then W is connected, it coincides with the so-called observer domain, specified by a trajectory of the modular flow which at the same time is a causal geodesic. It can also be characterized in terms of a geometric KMS condition, and it has a natural structure of an equivariant fiber bundle over a Riemannian symmetric space that exhibits it as a real form of the crown domain of G/K. Among the tools that we need for these results are two observations of independent interest: a polar decomposition of the positivity domain and a convexity theorem for G-translates of open H-orbits in the minimal flag manifold specified by the 3-grading.
The landscape of European policies in the power sector: first-mover advantages
Authors: Govorukha Kristina , Mayer Philip , Rübbelke Dirk
Published: December 2023

In order to achieve the commonly agreed emission reduction target, the European Commission called upon the member states to submit National Energy and Climate Plans to ensure increased transparency for the respective national targets and strategies. An analysis of these plans shows that some member states have declared ambitious emission reductions targets, as well as technology-specific phaseout policies in the power sector. A transformation to a climate-friendly system requires considerable investment, the question arises if there are benefits to be in the vanguard. We find that countries may have an incentive to outperform in the development of a low-carbon electricity system.
Immunostimulatory nanoparticles delivering cytokines as a novel cancer nanoadjuvant to empower glioblastoma immunotherapy
Authors: Sousa Flávia , Lee Henry , Almeida Mauro , Bazzoni Amelie , Rothen-Rutishauser Barbara , Petri-Fink Alke
Published: December 2023

Glioblastoma (GBM) stands as a highly aggressive and deadly malignant primary brain tumor with a median survival time of under 15 months upon disease diagnosis. While immunotherapies have shown promising results in solid cancers, brain cancers are still unresponsive to immunotherapy due to immunological dysfunction and the presence of a blood–brain barrier. Interleukin-12 (IL-12) emerges as a potent cytokine in fostering anti-tumor immunity by triggering interferon-gamma production in T and natural killer cells and changing macrophages to a tumoricidal phenotype. However, systemic administration of IL-12 toxicity in clinical trials often leads to significant toxicity, posing a critical hurdle. To overcome this major drawback, we have formulated a novel nanoadjuvant composed of immunostimulatory nanoparticles (ISN) loaded with IL-12 to decrease IL-12 toxicity and enhance the immune response by macrophages and GBM cancer cells. Our in vitro results reveal that ISN substantially increase the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in GBM cancer cells (e.g. 2.6 × increase in IL-8 expression compared to free IL-12) and macrophages (e.g. 2 × increase in TNF-α expression and 6 × increase in IL-6 expression compared to the free IL-12). These findings suggest a potential modulation of the tumor microenvironment. Additionally, our study demonstrates the effective intracellular delivery of IL-12 by ISN, triggering alterations in the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines at both transcriptional and protein expression levels. These results highlight the promise of the nanoadjuvant as a prospective platform for resharing the GBM microenvironment and empowering immunotherapy.

Graphical Abstract
Research developments in the application of electrospun nanofibers in direct methanol fuel cells
Authors: Yu Shuyan , Xu Shuang , Khan Rashid , Zhao Hongyu , Li Congju
Published: December 2023

Direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) are an environment-friendly energy source that transforms chemical energy released by methanol oxidation into electrical energy.
Measuring continuity in primary care: how it is done and why it matters
Authors: Hersch Derek , Klemenhagen Kristen , Adam Patricia
Published: December 2023

Continuity of care (COC) is a foundational element of primary care and is associated with improved patient satisfaction and health outcomes and decreased total cost of care. The patient–physician relationship is highly valued by both parties and is often the reason providers choose to specialize in primary care. In some settings, such as outpatient residency clinics, however, patients may only see their primary care provider (PCP) 50% or less of the time. Considering the many benefits of COC for patients and providers, there is a clear need for us in primary care to understand how to compare different COC measures across studies and how to choose the best COC measure when conducting quality improvement efforts. However, at least 32 different measures have been used to evaluate COC. The manifold variations for measuring COC arise from data source restrictions, purpose (research or clinical use), perspective (patient or provider), and patient visit frequency/type. Key factors distinguishing common COC formulas are data source (e.g. claims data or electronic medical records), and whether a PCP is identifiable. There is no “right” formula, so understanding the nuances of COC measurement is essential for primary care research and clinical quality improvement. While the full complexity of COC cannot be captured by formulas and indices, they provide an important measure of how consistently patients are interacting with the same provider.
God’s Feminine Shadow: Fatema Mernissi’s Political Theology of Territory
Authors: Kigar Samuel B
Published: December 2023

At the close of the Cold War, the Moroccan feminist Fatema Mernissi joined intellectuals from around the world in analyzing the place of religion, culture, and civilization in the “new world order.” This article analyzes how Mernissi developed psychoanalytic, sexual difference feminism from within Muslim sources to critique this emergent form of territoriality. It shows how she attacked Muslim states, particularly Morocco, for appropriating premodern Muslim political theology to narrate their sovereignties in a world dominated by US-led militarism and neoliberalism. Then, it demonstrates how she used female figures, including the pre-Islamic goddess al-ʿUzza and the Moroccan spirit Haguza, to reveal how sexual difference would undermine exclusive claims to territorial sovereignty. Finally, it turns to Jonathan Z. Smith’s rejoinder to Mircea Eliade. Mernissi’s theory helps us to understand that Smith identified an important relationship between religion and territory but in a way that was androcentric and culturally specific.
Origin of the near-room temperature resistance transition in lutetium with H2/N2 gas mixture under high pressure
Authors: Peng Di , Zeng Qiaoshi , Lan Fujun , Xing Zhenfang , Zeng Zhidan , Ke Xiaoxing , Ding Yang , Mao Ho-kwang
Published: December 2023

The recent report of room-temperature superconductivity at near-ambient pressure in nitrogen-doped lutetium hydride (Lu-H-N) by Dasenbrock-Gammon et al. [Nature 615, 244–250 (2023)] has attracted tremendous attention due to its anticipated great impact on technology. However, the results could not be independently reproduced by other groups worldwide in follow-up studies, which elicited intense controversy. Here, we develop a reliable experimental protocol to minimize the extensively concerned extrinsic influences on the sample by starting the reaction from pure lutetium loaded with an H2/N2 gas mixture in a diamond anvil cell under different pressures and temperatures and simultaneously monitoring the entire chemical reaction process using in situ four-probe resistance measurements. Therefore, we could repeatedly reproduce the near-room temperature upsurge of electrical resistance at a relatively early stage of the chemical reaction. However, the mechanism is suggested to be a metal-to-semiconductor/insulator transition associated with the structural modulation in the non-stoichiometric Lu-H-N, rather than superconductivity.
Exploring the potential use of silver-exchanged zeolites for adsorption of radon traces in low background experiments
Authors: Veselska Oleksandra , Llido Olivier , Piro Marie-Cécile , Vaidya Shefali , Kuznicki Steven , Busto José
Published: December 2023

Radon is an important source of radioactive background in experiments searching for rare decays and in the field of low-energy particle physics. Here, we report the first temperature-dependent study of radon adsorption on silver-exchanged zeolites from several commercial producers. Among the three tested zeolites, Ag-ETS-10 showed the best result. Hence, it was chosen for the further study of internal radioactivity and radon emanation, which are important characteristics of materials used in low-activity experiments. The important role of silver in radon adsorption is demonstrated by comparison of the silver-exchanged zeolites with their unexchanged counterparts. Furthermore, the temperature-dependent measurements showed that the enhancement of the radon adsorption upon the introduction of silver in zeolite occurs due to the increase of the heat of adsorption. This opens a new perspective for the search for highly efficient radon adsorbents.
Video Directly Observed Therapy for Tuberculosis Treatment in Haitian Prisons: A Pattern of Group Adherence
Authors: Dirks Laura K. , Bircher Patrick M. , González-Montalvo Myrna del Mar , Kauffman Alexandra E. , Prophete Edwin J. , Bury Margarette R. , Spaulding Anne C.
Published: December 2023

Classification

Research paper

Purpose

Haitian provincial prisons historically were strapped to provide directly observed therapy (DOT) for persons with TB (PwTB) due to healthcare understaffing. A non-governmental organization addressed this gap via correctional officer-administered video DOT (VDOT).

Approach

A 16-month, quasi-experimental trial of officer-facilitated VDOT started in March 2019 at four prisons. Officers delivered doses directly without video when VDOT was inaccessible. Healthcare staff remotely tracked VDOT adherence asynchronously. Three fully-staffed prisons were controls. Our primary objective was to measure VDOT effectiveness for PwTB who began VDOT within 2 weeks of starting treatment. Our secondary objective was to measure program reach, implementation and maintenance through July 2023.

Findings

Reach—55 PwTB on VDOT met study criteria. Effectiveness: median/mean VDOT adherence for 55 individuals enrolled in the pilot were 70.8% and 60.2% respectively. Median/mean total adherence, including doses delivered by officers, were 100% and 93.5%. Implementation: VDOT adherence varied by site but not demographic characteristics; similarity of adherence patterns between subjects within a facility was high. Nursing staff reported that adherence in controls was 100%. Correctional officers reported high comfort with the program technology. Maintenance: Since the pilot, 387 PwTB have received TB medications via VDOT in the Haitian prison system.

Originality

VDOT for PwTB in low-resource Haitian prisons enabled close monitoring and follow-up; it could expand treatment options elsewhere. Total adherence neared that in control prisons. VDOT adherence varied by treatment day predominately in a group pattern, reflecting facility-level, rather than individual-level, factors.
Citation screening using large language models for creating clinical practice guidelines: A protocol for a prospective study
Authors: Oami Takehiko , Okada Yohei , Nakada Taka-aki
Published: December 2023

Background

The development of clinical practice guidelines requires a meticulous literature search and screening process. This study aims to explore the potential of large language models in the development of the Japanese Clinical Practice Guidelines for Management of Sepsis and Septic Shock (J-SSCG), focusing on enhancing literature search quality and reducing the citation screening workload.

Methods

A prospective study will be conducted to compare the efficiency and accuracy of literature citation screening between the conventional method and a novel approach using large language models. We will use the large language model, namely GPT-4, to conduct literature searches for predefined clinical questions. We will objectively measure the time required for citation screening and compare it to the time taken using the conventional method. Following the screening, we will calculate and compare the sensitivity and specificity of the results obtained from the conventional method and the large language models-assisted process. The total time spent using both approaches will also be compared to assess workload reduction.

Trial registration

This research is submitted with the University hospital medical information network clinical trial registry (UMIN-CTR) [UMIN000053091].

Conflicts of interest

All authors declare no conflicts of interest to have.

Funding

None
Germline and Somatic Mutations in DNA Methyltransferase 3A(DNMT3A)Predispose to Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) in Humans and Mice:Implications for Associated PAH
Authors: Al-Qazazi Ruaa , Emon Isaac M. , Potus François , Martin Ashley Y. , Lima Patricia D.A. , Vlasschaert Caitlyn , Chen Kuang-Hueih , Wu Danchen , Gupta Asish Das , Noordhof Curtis , Jefferson Lindsay , McNaughton Amy J. M. , Bick Alexander G. , Pauciulo Michael W. , Nichols William C. , Chung Wendy K. , Hassoun Paul M. , Damico Rachel L. , Rauh Michael J. , Archer Stephen L.
Published: December 2023

Background

Mutations are found in 10-20% of idiopathic PAH (IPAH) patients, but none are consistently identified in connective tissue disease-associated PAH (APAH), which accounts for ∼45% of PAH cases.TET2mutations, a cause of clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminant potential (CHIP), predispose to an inflammatory type of PAH. We now examine mutations in another CHIP gene,DNMT3A, in PAH.

Methods

We assessedDNMT3Amutation prevalence in PAH Biobank subjects as compared with controls, first using whole exome sequencing (WES)-derived CHIP calls in 1832 PAH Biobank patients versus 7509 age-and sex-matched gnomAD controls. We then performed deep, targeted panel sequencing of CHIP genes on a subset of 710 PAH Biobank patients and compared the prevalence ofDNMT3Amutations therein to an independent pooled control cohort (N = 3645). In another cohort of 80 PAH patients and 41 controls,DNMT3AmRNA expression was studied in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Finally, we evaluated the development of PAH in a conditional, hematopoietic,Dnmt3aknockout mouse model.

Results

DNMT3Amutations were more frequent in PAH cases versus control subjects in the WES dataset (OR 2.60, 95% CI: 1.71-4.27). Among PAH patients, 33 hadDNMT3Avariants, most of whom had APAH (21/33). While 21/33 had somatic mutations (female:male 17:4), germline variants occurred in 12/33 (female:male 11:1). Hemodynamics were comparable with and withoutDNMT3Amutations (mPAP=58±21 vs. 52±18 mmHg); however, patients withDNMT3Amutations were unresponsive to acute vasodilator testing. Targeted panel sequencing identified that 14.6% of PAH patients had CHIP mutations (104/710), withDNMT3Aaccounting for 49/104. There was a significant association between all CHIP mutations and PAH in analyses adjusted for age and sex (OR 1.40, 95% CI: 1.09-1.80), thoughDNMT3ACHIP alone was not significantly enriched (OR:1.15, 0.82-1.61).DNMT3Aexpression was reduced in patient-derived versus control PAH-PBMCs. Spontaneous PAH developed inDnmt3a-/-mice, and it was exacerbated by 3 weeks of hypoxia.Dnmt3a-/-mice had increased lung macrophages and elevated plasma IL-13. The IL-1β antibody canakinumab attenuated PAH inDnmt3a-/-mice.

Conclusions

Germline and acquiredDNMT3Avariants predispose to PAH in humans.DNMT3AmRNA expression is reduced in human PAH PBMCs. Hematopoietic depletion of Dnmt3a causes inflammatory PAH in mice.DNMT3Ais a novel APAH gene and may be a biomarker and therapeutic target.
Association of Obstructive Sleep Apnea with Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC)
Authors: Quan Stuart F. , Weaver Matthew D. , Czeisler Mark É. , Barger Laura K. , Booker Lauren A. , Howard Mark E. , Jackson Melinda L. , Lane Rashon I. , McDonald Christine F. , Ridgers Anna , Robbins Rebecca , Varma Prerna , Wiley Joshua F. , Rajaratnam Shantha M.W. , Czeisler Charles A.
Published: December 2023

Background

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with COVID-19 infection. Fewer investigations have assessed OSA as a possible risk for the development of Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC).

Research Question

In a general population, is OSA associated with increased odds of PASC-related symptoms and with an overall definition of PASC?

Study Design

Cross-sectional survey of a general population of 24,803 U.S. adults.

Results

COVID-19 infection occurred in 10,324 (41.6%) participants. Prevalence rates for a wide variety of persistent (> 3 months post infection) putative PASC-related physical and mental health symptoms ranged from 6.5% (peripheral edema) to 19.6% (nervous/anxious). In logistic regression models adjusted for demographic, anthropometric, comorbid medical and socioeconomic factors, OSA was associated with all putative PASC-related symptoms with the highest adjusted odds ratios (aOR) being fever (2.053) and nervous/anxious (1.939) respectively. Elastic net regression identified the 13 of 37 symptoms most strongly associated with COVID-19 infection. Four definitions of PASC were developed using these symptoms either weighted equally or proportionally by their regression coefficients. In all 4 logistic regression models using these definitions, OSA was associated with PASC (range of aORs: 1.934-2.071); this association was mitigated in those with treated OSA. In the best fitting overall model requiring ≥3 symptoms, PASC prevalence was 21.9%.

Conclusion

In a general population sample, OSA is associated with the development of PASC-related symptoms and a global definition of PASC. A PASC definition requiring the presence of 3 or more symptoms may be useful in identifying cases and for future research.