bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discovery and engineering of the antibody response against a prominent skin commensal
Authors: Bousbaine Djenet , Bauman Katherine D. , Chen Y. Erin , Yu Victor K. , Lalgudi Pranav V. , Naziripour Arash , Veinbachs Alessandra , Phung Jennie L. , Nguyen Tam T.D. , Swenson Joyce M. , Lee Yue E. , Dimas Alex , Jain Sunit , Meng Xiandong , Pham Thi Phuong Thao , Zhao Aishan , Barkal Layla , Gribonika Inta , Van Rompay Koen K.A. , Belkaid Yasmine , Barnes Christopher O. , Fischbach Michael A.
Published: January 2024

The ubiquitous skin colonistStaphylococcus epidermidiselicits a CD8+T cell response pre-emptively, in the absence of an infection1. However, the scope and purpose of this anti-commensal immune program are not well defined, limiting our ability to harness it therapeutically. Here, we show that this colonist also induces a potent, durable, and specific antibody response that is conserved in humans and non-human primates. A series ofS. epidermidiscell-wall mutants revealed that the cell surface protein Aap is a predominant target. By colonizing mice with a strain ofS. epidermidisin which the parallel β-helix domain of Aap is replaced by tetanus toxin fragment C, we elicit a potent neutralizing antibody response that protects mice against a lethal challenge. A similar strain ofS. epidermidisexpressing an Aap-SpyCatcher chimera can be conjugated with recombinant immunogens; the resulting labeled commensal elicits high titers of antibody under conditions of physiologic colonization, including a robust IgA response in the nasal mucosa. Thus, immunity to a common skin colonist involves a coordinated T and B cell response, the latter of which can be redirected against pathogens as a novel form of topical vaccination.
Evaluation of Precision of thePlasmodium knowlesiGrowth Inhibition Assay forPlasmodium vivaxDuffy-Binding Protein-based Malaria Vaccine Development
Authors: Mertens Jonas E. , Rigby Cassandra A. , Bardelli Martino , Quinkert Doris , Hou Mimi M. , Diouf Ababacar , Silk Sarah E. , Chitnis Chetan E. , Minassian Angela M. , Moon Robert W. , Long Carole A. , Draper Simon J. , Miura Kazutoyo
Published: January 2024

Recent data indicate increasing disease burden and importance ofPlasmodium vivax(Pv) malaria. A robust assay will be essential for blood-stagePvvaccine development. Results of thein vitrogrowth inhibition assay (GIA) with transgenicP. knowlesi(Pk) parasites expressing thePvDuffy-binding protein region II (PvDBPII) correlate within vivoprotection in the firstPvDBPII controlled human malaria infection (CHMI) trials, making thePkGIA an ideal selection tool once the precision of the assay is defined. To determine the precision in percentage of inhibition in GIA (%GIA) and in GIA50(antibody concentration that gave 50 %GIA), ten GIAs with transgenicPkparasites were conducted evaluating four different anti-PvDBPII human monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) at different concentrations, and three GIAs were conducted testing eighty anti-PvDBPII human polyclonal antibodies (pAbs) at 10 mg/mL. A significant assay-to-assay variation was observed, and the analysis revealed a standard deviation (SD) of 13.1 in the mAb and 5.94 in the pAb dataset for %GIA, with a LogGIA50SD of 0.299 (for mAbs). Moreover, the ninety-five percent confidence interval (95%CI) for %GIA or GIA50in repeat assays was calculated in this investigation. These results will support the development of future blood-stage malaria vaccines, specifically second generationPvDBPII-based formulations.
The bistable mitotic switch in fission yeast
Authors: Novák Béla , Tyson John J.
Published: January 2024

In most situations, eukaryotic cells proceed irreversibly through the cell division cycle (G1-S-G2-M) in order to produce two daughter cells with the same number and identity of chromosomes of their progenitor. The integrity of this process is maintained by ‘checkpoints’ that hold a cell at particular transition points of the cycle until all requisite events are completed. The crucial functions of these checkpoints seem to depend on irreversible bistability of the underlying checkpoint control systems. Bistability of cell cycle transitions has been confirmed experimentally in frog egg extracts, in budding yeast cells and in mammalian cells. For fission yeast cells, a recent paper by Patterson et al. (1) provides experimental evidence for an abrupt transition from G2 phase into mitosis, and we show that these data are consistent with a stochastic model of a bistable switch governing the G2/M checkpoint. Interestingly, our model suggests that their experimental data could also be explained by a reversible/sigmoidal switch, and stochastic simulations confirm this supposition. We propose a simple modification of their experimental protocol that could provide convincing evidence for (or against) bistability of the G2/M transition in fission yeast.
Development of Ingenui-T, a Novel Vein-to-Vein Solution for Rapid Autologous CAR T-Cell Manufacturing Starting From Whole Blood, for the Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Anaya Daniel , Kwong Brandon , Park Soo , Biswas Sunetra , Jeevan Jeevitha , Strobach Madison , Khoshnoodi Nicole , Register Ames , Klasson Timothy D , Foos-Russ Santiago , Zeng Jennifer , Banuelos Jesus , Gibson Candice , Bravo Jazmin , Flandez Jeanne , Van Blarcom Tom , Walker Karen
Published: January 2024

Apheresis, a conventional starting point for manufacturing chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy, poses challenges due to the length and invasiveness of the procedure, the high demand for and limited quantity of apheresis beds, and additional resource constraints at collection centers. Furthermore, traditional CAR T-cell manufacturing often involves extended cell culture periods, leading to a final product that has progressed through the differentiation process and contains a higher frequency of cells with phenotypes that are indicative of lower functionality or potency.1Here, we show that anti-CD19 CAR T-cells manufactured from fresh whole blood with minimal ex vivo expansion using Ingenui-T exhibit comparable or superior CAR-mediated and CD19-dependent functional activity compared to CAR T-cells manufactured from cryopreserved leukapheresis material following the a conventional manufacturing process. Anti-CD19 CAR T-cell production, manufactured from whole blood in less than 3 days of in vitro culture using Ingenui-T, yielded an average of about 40 million cells per 100 mL with high CD3 purity and viability. Furthermore, the final product was composed of cells with less differentiated phenotypes and sustained cytotoxic activity against CD19+target cells at a lower dose than conventionally manufactured CAR T cells in preclinical in vitro assays. Ingenui-T is an innovative vein-to-vein solution, aimed at enhancing the patient experience, feasibility, and accessibility of CAR T-cell therapy by alleviating challenges linked to apheresis-based methods, with its patient-friendly nature, cost-effectiveness, and distinctive methodology.
Biophysical Essentials – A Full Stack Open-Source Software Framework for Conserved and Advanced Analysis of Patch-Clamp Recordings
Authors: Zimmermann David , Kress Michaela , Zeidler Maximilian
Published: January 2024

Patch-Clamp recordings allow for in depth electrophysiological characterization of single cells, their general biophysical properties as well as characteristics of voltage- and ligand-gated ionic currents. Different acquisition modes, such as whole-cell patch-clamp recordings in the current or voltage clamp configuration, capacitance measurements or single channel recordings from cultured cells as well as acute brain slices are routinely performed for these purposes. Nevertheless, multipurpose transparent and adaptable software tools to perform reproducible state-of-the-art analysis of multiple experiment types and to manage larger sets of experimental data are currently unavailable. We therefore developed Biophysical Essentials (BPE) as an open-source python software for transparent and reproducible analysis of electrophysiological recordings. While initially designed to improve time consuming and repetitive analysis steps, BPE was optimized to cover entire workflows from data acquisition, preprocessing, visualization and normalization of single recordings up to stacked calculations and statistics of multiple experiments. BPE can operate with different file formats from different amplifier systems and producers. An in-process database logs all analysis steps for later review and serves as a central storage point for recordings. Statistical testing as well as advanced analysis functions like Boltzmann-fitting and dimensional reduction methods further support the researchers’ needs in projects involving electrophysiology techniques.

Impact statement

Biophysical Essentials provides fundamental support for transparent patch-clamp analysis to improve reproducibility in electrophysiology research.
An inductive bias for slowly changing features in human reinforcement learning
Authors: Hedrich Noa L. , Schulz Eric , Hall-McMaster Sam , Schuck Nicolas W.
Published: January 2024

Identifying goal-relevant features in novel environments is a central challenge for efficient behaviour. We asked whether humans address this challenge by relying on prior knowledge about common properties of reward-predicting features. One such property is the rate of change of features, given that behaviourally relevant processes tend to change on a slower timescale than noise. Hence, we asked whether humans are biased to learn more when task-relevant features are slow rather than fast. To test this idea, 295 human participants were asked to learn the rewards of two-dimensional bandits when either a slowly or quickly changing feature of the bandit predicted reward. Across two experiments and one preregistered replication, participants accrued more reward when a bandit’s relevant feature changed slowly, and its irrelevant feature quickly, as compared to the opposite. We did not find a difference in the ability to generalise to unseen feature values between conditions. Testing how feature speed could affect learning with a set of four function approximation Kalman filter models revealed that participants had a higher learning rate for the slow feature, and adjusted their learning to both the relevance and the speed of feature changes. The larger the improvement in participants’ performance for slow compared to fast bandits, the more strongly they adjusted their learning rates. These results provide evidence that human reinforcement learning favours slower features, suggesting a bias in how humans approach reward learning.

Author summary

Learning experiments in the laboratory are often assumed to exist in a vacuum, where participants solve a given task independently of how they learn in more natural circumstances. But humans and other animals are in fact well known to “meta learn”, i.e. to leverage generalisable assumptions abouthow to learnfrom other experiences. Taking inspiration from a well-known machine learning technique known as slow feature analysis, we investigated one specific instance of such an assumption in learning: the possibility that humans tend to focus on slowly rather than quickly changing features when learning about rewards. To test this, we developed a task where participants had to learn the value of stimuli composed of two features. Participants indeed learned better from a slowly rather than quickly changing feature that predicted reward. Computational modelling of participant behaviour indicated that participants had a higher learning rate for slowly changing features from the outset. Hence, our results support the idea that human reinforcement learning reflects a priori assumptions about the reward structure in natural environments.
Horizonless black hole mimickers with spin
Authors: Danielsson Ulf , Giri Suvendu
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we study rotating horizonless black shells as an alternative to Kerr black holes. We make use of Ernst’s potential to solve the Einstein equations perturbatively in the angular momentum a. Calculating to order a6, we find accurate predictions up to about a=0.45, where the quadrupole moment is predicted to be around 1% higher than its Kerr value; higher multipole moments show deviation of the order of ∼10%. Our analysis takes into account deformations of the black shells, and we propose that it can be used for numerical simulations comparing gravitational waves emitted by orbiting black shells with those emitted by orbiting black holes. We find that matter on the rotating shell takes the form of a viscous fluid. We make extensive use of relativistic hydrodynamics, and discover an intricate structure of circulating flows of this fluid and heat on the black shell, sustained by the Unruh effect.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Quantum theory of three-dimensional de Sitter space
Authors: A Sidan , Banks Tom , Fischler Willy
Published: January 2024

We sketch the construction of a quantum model of three-dimensional de Sitter space, based on the covariant entropy principle and the observation that semiclassical physics suggests the possibility of a consistent theory of a finite number of unstable massive particles with purely gravitational interactions. Our model is holographic, finite, unitary, causal, plausibly exhibits fast scrambling, and qualitatively reproduces features of semiclassical de Sitter physics. In an appendix we outline some calculations that might lead to further tests of the model.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Piezoelectric excitation and acoustic detection of thin film polymer membrane vibrations
Authors: Roberts Nathaniel M. , Sharp James S.
Published: January 2024

A simple method of measuring the vibrational response of a thin film membrane was developed. Piezoelectric excitation and acoustic detection (using a microphone) allowed the vibrational spectra of thin membranes to be measured in the kHz range. Vibrational frequencies were used to determine Young's modulus in thin (µm) solvent tensioned films of polydimethylsiloxane and to measure tension in ultrathin polystyrene films. Simulations of membrane motion generated vibrational spectra that agreed with the results of experiments for different membrane shapes.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Preparation of Matrix Product States with Log-Depth Quantum Circuits
Authors: Malz Daniel , Styliaris Georgios , Wei Zhi-Yuan , Cirac J. Ignacio
Published: January 2024

We consider the preparation of matrix product states (MPS) on quantum devices via quantum circuits of local gates. We first prove that faithfully preparing translation-invariant normal MPS of N sites requires a circuit depth T=Ω(logN). We then introduce an algorithm based on the renormalization-group transformation to prepare normal MPS with an error ε in depth T=O[log(N/ε)], which is optimal. We also show that measurement and feedback leads to an exponential speedup of the algorithm to

T

=

O

[

log

log

(

N

/

ε

)

]

. Measurements also allow one to prepare arbitrary translation-invariant MPS, including long-range non-normal ones, in the same depth. Finally, the algorithm naturally extends to inhomogeneous MPS.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Controlling charge density order in
2H−TaSe2
using a van Hove singularity
Authors: Luckin W. R. B. , Li Y. , Jiang J. , Gunasekera S. M. , Wen C. , Zhang Y. , Prabhakaran D. , Flicker F. , Chen Y. , Mucha-Kruczyński M.
Published: January 2024

We report on the interplay between a van Hove singularity and a charge density wave state in 2H−TaSe2. We use angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy to investigate changes in the Fermi surface of this material under surface doping with potassium. At high doping, we observe modifications which imply the disappearance of the (3×3) charge density wave and formation of a different correlated state. Using a tight-binding-based approach as well as an effective model, we explain our observations as a consequence of coupling between the single-particle Lifshitz transition during which the Fermi level passes a van Hove singularity and the charge density order. In this scenario, the high electronic density of states associated with the van Hove singularity induces a change in the periodicity of the charge density wave from the known (3×3) to a new (2×2) superlattice.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Quantum effects on dynamic structure factors in dense magnetized plasmas
Authors: Mondal Tushar , Gregori Gianluca
Published: January 2024

We extend the classical magnetohydrodynamics formalism to include nonlocal quantum behavior via the phenomenological Bohm potential. We then solve the quantum magnetohydrodynamics equations to obtain a new analytical form of the dynamic structure factor (DSF), a fundamental quantity linking theory and experiments. Our results show that the three-peak structure—one central Rayleigh peak and two Brillouin peaks—of the DSF arising from quantum hydrodynamic fluctuations becomes (in general) a five-peak structure—one central Rayleigh peak and two pairs of peaks associated with fast and slow magnetosonic waves. The Bohm contribution influences the positions and characteristics (height, width, and intensity) of the peaks by introducing three significant modifications: (i) an increase in effective thermal pressure, (ii) a reduction in the adiabatic index, and (iii) an enhancement of effective thermal diffusivity. The multiple DSF peaks enable concurrent measurements of diverse plasma properties, transport coefficients, and thermodynamic parameters in magnetized dense plasmas. The potential for experimental validation of our theory looms large, particularly through future experiments conducted at state-of-the-art laser facilities.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Online carbohydrate 3D structure validation with the Privateer web app
Authors: Dialpuri Jordan S. , Bagdonas Haroldas , Schofield Lucy C. , Pham Phuong Thao , Holland Lou , Bond Paul S. , Sánchez Rodríguez Filomeno , McNicholas Stuart J. , Agirre Jon
Published: January 2024

Owing to the difficulties associated with working with carbohydrates, validating glycan 3D structures prior to deposition into the Protein Data Bank has become a staple of the structure-solution pipeline. The Privateer software provides integrative methods for the validation, analysis, refinement and graphical representation of 3D atomic structures of glycans, both as ligands and as protein modifiers. While Privateer is free software, it requires users to install any of the structural biology software suites that support it or to build it from source code. Here, the Privateer web app is presented, which is always up to date and available to be used online (https://privateer.york.ac.uk) without installation. This self-updating tool, which runs locally on the user's machine, will allow structural biologists to simply and quickly analyse carbohydrate ligands and protein glycosylation from a web browser whilst retaining all confidential information on their devices.
Do intellectual property rights promote foreign direct investment inflows and technological exports in developing and developed countries?
Authors: ALshubiri Faris , Al Ani Mawih Kareem
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to analyse the intellectual property rights (INPR), foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows and technological exports of 32 developing and developed countries for the period of 2006–2020.

Design/methodology/approach

Diagnostic tests were used to confirm the panel least squares, fixed effect, random effect, feasible general least squares, dynamic ordinary least squares and fully modified ordinary least squares estimator results as well as to increase the robustness.

Findings

According to the findings for the developing countries, trademark, patent and industrial design applications, each had a significant positive long-run effect on FDI inflows. In addition, there was a significant positive long-run relationship between patent applications and medium- and high-technology exports. Meanwhile, trademark and industrial design applications had a significant negative long-term effect on medium- and high-technology exports. In developed countries, patent and industrial design applications each have a significant negative long-term on medium- and high-technology exports. Furthermore, patent and trademark applications each had a significant negative long-run effect on FDI inflows.

Originality/value

This study contributes significantly to the focus that host countries evaluate the technology gaps between domestic and foreign investors at different industry levels to select the best INPR rules and innovation process by increasing international cooperation. Furthermore, the host countries should follow the structure–conduct–performance paradigm based on analysis of the market structure, strategic firms and industrial dynamics systems.
Aerodynamic force by Lamb vector integrals in unsteady compressible flows
Authors: Minervino Mauro , Tognaccini Renato
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to propose an aerodynamic force decomposition which, for the first time, allows for thrust/drag bookkeeping in two-dimensional viscous and unsteady flows. Lamb vector-based far-field methods are used at the scope, and the paper starts with extending recent steady compressible formulas to the unsteady regime.

Design/methodology/approach

Exact vortical force formulas are derived considering inertial or non-inertial frames, viscous or inviscid flows, fixed or moving bodies. Numerical applications to a NACA0012 airfoil oscillating in pure plunging motion are illustrated, considering subsonic and transonic flow regimes. The total force accuracy and sensitivity to the control volume size is first analysed, then the axial force is decomposed and results are compared to the inviscid force (thrust) and to the steady force (drag).

Findings

Two total axial force decompositions in thrust and drag contributions are proposed, providing satisfactory results. An additional force decomposition is also formulated, which is independent of the arbitrary pole appearing in vortical formulas. Numerical inaccuracies encountered in inertial reference frames are eliminated, and the extended formulation also allows obtaining an accurate force prediction in presence of shock waves.

Originality/value

No thrust/drag bookkeeping methodology was actually available for oscillating airfoils in viscous and compressible flows.
Principal's abusive leadership and teachers' intrinsic and extrinsic motivations: the moderating roles of duration of relationship and group size
Authors: Hassan Tahani , Berkovich Izhak
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study investigated the relationship between principals' abusive leadership and teachers' intrinsic and extrinsic motivations, exploring the potential moderating effects of the duration of the relationship and group size within educational settings.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from a sample of teachers in Bahrain, using self-report measures. The data were analyzed using regression analyses.

Findings

The findings reveal a significant negative relationship between principals' abusive leadership and teachers' intrinsic and extrinsic motivations. The results also show that the duration of the relationship moderates the correlation between abusive leadership and teachers' extrinsic motivation, with teachers who have been in longer relationships with their principals showing greater resistance to the detrimental effects of abusive leadership on their extrinsic motivation. Group size was found to moderate this correlation, with larger groups exhibiting stronger buffering against the negative effect of abusive leadership.

Originality/value

The findings provide valuable insights into the dynamics of abusive leadership in educational settings and the potential moderating factors that can help alleviate its detrimental effects on teachers' motivations.
Resource allocation in vehicular network based on sparrow search algorithm and hyper-graph in the presence of multiple cellular users
Authors: Kang Lin , Wang Jie , Chen Junjie , Yang Di
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Since the performance of vehicular users and cellular users (CUE) in Vehicular networks is highly affected by the allocated resources to them. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the resource allocation for vehicular communications when multiple V2V links and a V2I link share spectrum with CUE in uplink communication under different Quality of Service (QoS).

Design/methodology/approach

An optimization model to maximize the V2I capacity is established based on slowly varying large-scale fading channel information. Multiple V2V links are clustered based on sparrow search algorithm (SSA) to reduce interference. Then, a weighted tripartite graph is constructed by jointly optimizing the power of CUE, V2I and V2V clusters. Finally, spectrum resources are allocated based on a weighted 3D matching algorithm.

Findings

The performance of the proposed algorithm is tested. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm can maximize the channel capacity of V2I while ensuring the reliability of V2V and the quality of service of CUE.

Originality/value

There is a lack of research on resource allocation algorithms of CUE, V2I and multiple V2V in different QoS. To solve the problem, one new resource allocation algorithm is proposed in this paper. Firstly, multiple V2V links are clustered using SSA to reduce interference. Secondly, the power allocation of CUE, V2I and V2V is jointly optimized. Finally, the weighted 3D matching algorithm is used to allocate spectrum resources.
Real Estate Insights Individuals, beliefs and decision-making in commercial real estate markets: some reflections from the past
Authors: Lizieri Colin
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The aim of this Real Estate Insight is to comment upon commercial real estate research. Much of the current research on commercial real estate sits in academic silos, constrained by disciplinary boundaries and rejecting insights from other areas. This can lead to an impoverished understanding of the processes and practices that drive market behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

This Real Estate Insight, through the lens of history, draws on insights from a century earlier and, in particular, from the work of Frank Ramsey; the paper argues that market behaviour is shaped by the role of key actors and persistent beliefs which need to be accounted for in our models of market practice.

Findings

The paper argues that current research paradigms need to accommodate agency explicitly into existing models and that real estate research will benefit immensely if researcher were more open in seeking ideas from outside the real estate field and to be more open to external ideas and concepts.

Practical implications

The paper suggests that property research needs to be more embracing of other academic disciplines to develop a full understanding of the numerous and various drivers within commercial real estate markets.

Originality/value

This is a review of how beliefs impact upon commercial real estate markets. As with many things, history can help researchers today get a broader and more appropriate perspective on market drivers and how they affect decision-making.
A new gray optimization model for disposing or re-commercializing unsold goods in reverse logistics networks with a cross-docking center
Authors: Rajabzadeh Mohsen , Mousavi Seyed Meysam , Azimi Farzad
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This paper investigates a problem in a reverse logistics (RLs) network to decide whether to dispose of unsold goods in primary stores or re-commercialize them in outlet centers. By deducting the costs associated with each policy from its revenue, this study aims to maximize the profit from managing unsold goods.

Design/methodology/approach

A new mixed-integer linear programming model has been developed to address the problem, which considers the selling prices of products in primary and secondary stores and the costs of transportation, cross-docking and returning unwanted items. As a result of uncertain nature of the cost and time parameters, gray numbers are used to deal with it. In addition, an innovative uncertain solution approach for gray programming problems is presented that considers objective function satisfaction level as an indicator of optimism.

Findings

According to the results, higher costs, including transportation, cross-docking and return costs, make sending goods to outlet centers unprofitable and more goods are disposed of in primary stores. Prices in primary and secondary stores heavily influence the number of discarded goods. Higher prices in primary stores result in more disposed of goods, while higher prices in secondary stores result in fewer. As a result of the proposed method, the objective function satisfaction level can be viewed as a measure of optimism.

Originality/value

An integral contribution of this study is developing a new mixed-integer linear programming model for selecting the appropriate goods for re-commercialization and choosing the best outlet center based on the products' price and total profit. Another novelty of the proposed model is considering the matching percentage of boxes with secondary stores’ desired product lists and the probability of returning goods due to non-compliance with delivery dates. Moreover, a new uncertain solution approach is developed to solve mathematical programming problems with gray parameters.
Building trust in the UK’s remote work landscape: overcoming challenges and nurturing leadership?
Authors: Vander David
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address the challenges and opportunities in building trust in the UK’s remote work landscape, emphasising the importance of effective leadership and dispelling misconceptions about remote work.

Design/methodology/approach

The author draws upon a combination of research data, industry trends and expert opinions to present a comprehensive overview of the trust deficit in the remote work landscape. They also incorporate case studies and quotes from prominent figures in the field to support their arguments.

Findings

This paper highlights that trust in remote work is not solely determined by physical presence, but rather influenced by factors such as flexibility and technology. It underscores the productivity gains reported by both executives (69%) and employees (75%) in remote work settings. The paper also provides actionable strategies for managing a hybrid workforce and navigating the trust deficit.

Originality/value

This paper offers valuable insights and perspectives on trust-building in the context of remote work, challenging entrenched beliefs and providing evidence-backed recommendations. It brings together a range of data points and expert opinions to offer a fresh and comprehensive perspective on a critical aspect of modern work environments.
INHABITING LIMINALITY: The Temporal, Spatial and Experiential Assemblage of Emancipatory Practices in the Lives of Housing Squatters in Rome, Italy
Authors: Cacciotti Chiara
Published: January 2024

In this article I question notions of urban liminality by foregrounding the temporal, spatial and experiential dimensions underpinning their formations. I focus on liminal practices of inhabitation in the context of a housing squat in Rome, Italy, by investigating how a permanent housing deprivation condition, once politically organized in a squatted building, can anchor processes of empowerment and political mobilization. To do so, I put forward a rereading of liminality, not necessarily as a temporary state but rather as a more comprehensive spatial–temporal assemblage, by offering a tripartite reading of liminal conditions in their spatial, temporal and experiential dimensions. My goal is to offer an analysis of urban and housing liminality that transcends totalizing narratives of exceptionality, temporariness or straightforward annihilation, advancing instead a more nuanced reading—where liminality can be seen either as a vehicle for social depotentiation or as the grounds for collective forms of emancipatory practices.
Visualization of latent fingerprints using fluorescence lifetime imaging on paper emitting strong fluorescence
Authors: Kakuda Hidetoshi , Akiba Norimitsu , Hibino Kazuhito , Tsuchiya Ken’ichi , Tanabe Kosuke , Shibasaki Kazunari
Published: January 2024

Latent fingerprints were successfully visualized using fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) on paper which emits strong fluorescence with a lifetime close to that of fingerprints and thus from which it is difficult for time‐resolved spectroscopy to visualize fingerprints. Latent fingerprint samples on paper were excited using a 450 nm or 532 nm nanosecond pulsed‐laser, and time‐resolved fluorescence images were obtained at a delay time of 6–16 ns in intervals of 1 ns, to the excitation pulse. The excitation beam was expanded using a lens, and the fluorescence from the fingerprints was captured using an intensified CCD camera. Because of the large fluorescence intensity of the background paper of approximately two to four orders of magnitude larger than that of the fingerprint, the fingerprint was not visualized on each fluorescence image by time‐resolved spectroscopy. However, the fingerprint was visualized in a FLIM image constructed using a series of the fluorescence images for the case with the fluorescence intensity of the background paper being four orders of magnitude larger than that of the fingerprint. The difference in fluorescence lifetime in the FLIM image of the visualized fingerprint and background paper was in the order of 0.1 ns, which was an order of magnitude smaller than the inherent fluorescence lifetime of a few nanoseconds for the fingerprints and paper. It was demonstrated that, at a background fluorescence intensity with a certain order of magnitude larger than that of fingerprints, FLIM has the potential to visualize latent fingerprints which cannot be visualized by time‐resolved spectroscopy.
The unknown unknown: A framework for assessing environmental DNA assay specificity against unsampled taxa
Authors: Wilcox Taylor M. , Kronenberger John A. , Young Michael K. , Mason Daniel H. , Franklin Thomas W. , Schwartz Michael K.
Published: January 2024

Taxon‐specific quantitative PCR (qPCR) assays are commonly used for environmental DNA sampling‐based inference of animal presence. These assays require thorough validation to ensure that amplification truly indicates detection of the target taxon, but a thorough validation is difficult when there are potentially many non‐target taxa, some of which may have incomplete taxonomies. Here, we use a previously published, quantitative model of cross‐amplification risk to describe a framework for assessing qPCR assay specificity when there is missing information and it is not possible to assess assay specificity for each individual non‐target confamilial. In this framework, we predict assay specificity against unsampled taxa (non‐target taxa without sequence data available) using the sequence information that is available for other confamilials. We demonstrate this framework using four case study assays for: (1) An endemic, freshwater arthropod (meltwater stonefly; Lednia tumana), (2) a globally distributed, marine ascidian (Didemnum perlucidum), (3) a continentally distributed freshwater crustacean (virile crayfish; Faxonius virilis, deanae and nais species complex) and (4) a globally distributed freshwater teleost (common carp; Cyprinus carpio and its close relative C. rubrofuscus). We tested the robustness of our approach to missing information by simulating application of our framework for all possible subsamples of 20—all non‐target taxa. Our results suggest that the modelling framework results in estimates which are largely concordant with observed levels of cross‐amplification risk using all available sequence data, even when there are high levels of data missingness. We explore potential limitations and extensions of this approach for assessing assay specificity and provide users with an R Markdown template for generating reproducible reports to support their own assay validation efforts.
Efficacy of adalimumab combined with Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F in the treatment of patient with rheumatoid arthritis: A multicenter, open‐label, randomized‐controlled trial
Authors: Luo Feng , Gau Shuo‐Yan , Wu Yu‐xia , Liao Hou‐li , Tang Fang , Zhong Qin , Huang Ying , Hou Lei , Liu Zheng‐qi , Cai Jin‐long , Cao Yue‐peng , Lu Dao‐min , An Yang , Lan Wei‐ya , Liu Can , Chen Chang‐ming , Jia Er‐tao , Yao Xue‐ming , Wei James Cheng‐Chung , Ma Wu‐kai
Published: January 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of adalimumab (ADA) combined with Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F (TwHF) in the treatment of methotrexate (MTX)‐inadequate response patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

In this multicenter, open‐label, randomized controlled clinical trial, 64 RA patients with inadequate response to MTX were 1:1 randomly assigned into treatment or control groups. The treatment group was treated with ADA in combination with TwHF, and the control group was treated with ADA in combination with MTX for 24 weeks. The primary endpoint was the percentage of patients having low disease activity (2.6 ≤ DAS28‐ESR < 3.2) and remission rates (DAS28‐ESR < 2.6) at week 24.

Results

In total, 53 of the 64 patients (82.8%) completed this 24‐week clinical trial. By intent‐to‐treat (ITT) analysis, a comparable outcome was observed between the two groups. The percentage of patients achieving low disease activity in the treatment group and control group were 43.8% and 46.9% (95% CI, 21.28 to 27.48, p = .802). Percentage of patients achieving low disease activity rates were respectively 28.1% and 31.3% in the treatment group and control group (95% CI, 19.18 to 25.58, p = .784). In per‐protocol (PP) analysis, the results were consistent with the ITT model. The incidence of adverse events was comparable between the two groups.

Conclusions

There were no significant differences in efficacy and safety between ADA combined with TwHF versus ADA combined with MTX in the treatment of RA. TwHF might be an alternative treatment for RA patients who are intolerant to MTX.
STA‐21 regulates Th‐17/Treg balance and synovial fibroblasts functions in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Mohammad Talar Ahmad Merza , Hamad Badraldin Kareem , Maroof Avin Mohammad Arif , Mahmud Shokhan Osman
Published: January 2024

JAK/STAT signaling pathway plays a significant role in cytokines and growth factors signaling involved in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). STAT3 is a major downstream signaling mediator of important pro‐inflammatory cytokines involved in Th‐17 cell differentiation playing a significant role in regulating Th‐17/ Treg balance and the development of autoimmune diseases, especially RA. Studies also have reported the role of the STAT3 pathway in inflammatory and destructive functions of synovial fibroblasts (SFs) in RA. STA‐21 is a small molecule inhibitor that can inhibit STAT3 activation impairing the expression of STAT3 target genes. In this study, we tested whether a STAT3 inhibitor, STA‐21, can alter Th‐17/Treg balance and SF functions in RA. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and SFs were isolated from 34 RA patients undergoing orthopedic surgery and 15 healthy controls to investigate in vitro effects of STA‐21. The main assays were MTT assay, PI staining, reverse transcription‐PCR (RT‐PCR), flow cytometric analysis, and ELISA. Results showed that STA‐21 reduced the proportion of Th‐17 cells and the expression of STAT3 target genes, RORγt, IL‐21, and IL‐23R involved in Th‐17 cells differentiation while it conversely increased the proportion of Treg cells, which theoretically may result in suppression of inflammation. We found that STAT3 activation and its target gene expression increased in RA‐SFs. In addition, results showed that STA‐21 can reduce the expression of STAT3 target genes related to cell proliferation, apoptosis, and inflammation leading to a decrease in proliferation and conversely increase in apoptosis of RA‐SFs. Overall, our findings provide evidence that STA‐21 can reduce inflammatory immune processes conducted by T cells and RA‐SFs in RA, suggesting that this compound is a suitable option for clinical studies in RA.
A multiscale perspective for improving conservation of Conchos pupfish
Authors: Elkins L. C. , Acre M. R. , Bean M. G. , Robertson S. M. , Smith R. , Perkin J. S.
Published: January 2024

Desert spring systems of the American southwest hold high local fish endemism and are ranked among the most threatened ecosystems in the world. The prioritization of conservation resources to protect species living within these arid landscapes requires knowledge of species abundance and distribution. The plight of Conchos pupfish (Cyprinodon eximius) is representative of freshwater fishes the world over, including population extirpations caused by human poisoning of streams and reservoir construction, to the extent that the species was once considered extinct in the USA. We developed a distance‐sampling framework to monitor Conchos pupfish abundance and coupled this approach with species distribution modeling to guide conservation actions. Our multiscale approach included surveying abundances within 5‐m transects at three reaches of the Devils River, where the last known USA populations persist. We combined this fine‐scale analysis with species distribution modeling for stream segments across the range of the species in Mexico and USA. Modeling revealed Conchos pupfish abundance among transects was negatively correlated with current velocity and detection was negatively correlated with water depth. Estimated abundance at a reach where the species was previously reintroduced was greater than other reaches combined in November 2019, lowest in March 2021 when reach water levels were very low, then equivalent with other reaches by October 2021 after water returned to the reach. Modeled Conchos pupfish distribution illustrated a high probability of occurrence on the periphery of the species' overall range within Texas, USA and broadly across Chihuahua, Mexico, where proposed protected areas might benefit the species. Our study provides conservation guidance by establishing (1) baseline and trajectory values for abundance, (2) transect locations where abundances might be managed within existing protected areas, (3) reaches where high abundances could be used for future repatriation, and (4) stream segments where future surveys might be conducted to assess conservation opportunities.
Light and scanning electron imaging confirm sexual dimorphism in scales and anal‐fin rays of the genera Anatolichthys and Paraphanius (Teleostei: Cyprinodontiformes: Aphaniidae)
Authors: Sungur Sevil , Esmaeili Hamid Reza , Echreshavi Sorour , Çiçek Erdoğan
Published: January 2024

The investigation of secondary sexual dimorphism is a significant and exciting research topic since it has to do with sexual selection, which is connected to selecting a mate and male competitiveness. The purpose of this study was to investigate the microscopic characteristics of scales in several body parts and anal‐fin rays of nine species of the old world cyprinodontiform fishes belonging to the genera Anatolichthys and Paraphanius to find out possible secondary sexual dimorphic traits and their importance in aphaniid taxonomy. Both light and scanning microscopy revealed that scales show general characteristics of aphaniid species and present large cycloid scales of several subtype forms including cycloid‐true circular, cycloid‐chordate, oval‐reversed ovoid, polygonal‐pentagonal, quadrilateral‐square, oval‐ovoid and oval‐oblong in different body parts of fishes. Both genera had sexual dimorphism: (i) male individuals of all nine investigated species presented contact organs in the forms of ctenus‐like structure in the posterior margin of the scales and spicule‐like structure in the anal‐fin rays; (ii) caudal‐fin rays of both sexes lacked contact organs; (iii) the number, position, size and form of contact organs provided a taxonomic signal to identify the two genera; (iv) contact organs can be thought of as functional structures that keep male and female individuals in physical contact during courtship and display behaviour throughout the active phase of reproduction; (v) it can provide evolutionary signals because sexual dimorphism would come from various sexual selection pressures acting on both sexes.
Efficacy and safety of idecabtagene vicleucel in patients with relapsed–refractory multiple myeloma not meeting the KarMMa‐1 trial eligibility criteria: A real‐world multicentre study
Authors: Dima Danai , Rashid Aliya , Davis James A. , Shune Leyla , Abdallah Al‐Ola , Li Hong , DeJarnette Shaun , Khouri Jack , Williams Louis , Hashmi Hamza , Raza Shahzad , McGuirk Joseph , Anwer Faiz , Ahmed Nausheen
Published: January 2024

Ide‐cel received approval for relapsed–refractory multiple myeloma based on the results of the KarMMa‐1 trial. However, patients with significant comorbidities, aggressive disease and prior B‐cell maturation antigen‐directed therapy (BCMA‐DT) were excluded. This retrospective study evaluated real‐world outcomes of patients who did not meet the KarMMa‐1 eligibility criteria and were treated with standard of care (SOC) ide‐cel. A total of 69 patients from three US centres who did not meet the KarMMa‐1 criteria underwent ide‐cel infusion. The main reasons for trial ineligibility included baseline grade 3–4 cytopenia (39%), prior BCMA‐DT (26%), renal impairment (19%) and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status ≥2 (14.5%). Cytokine‐release syndrome occurred in 81% vs. 84%, and immune effector cell‐associated neurotoxicity syndrome occurred in 28% vs. 18% of SOC versus KarMMa‐1 patients, respectively. Early infection (≤8 weeks post‐infusion) and severe infection rates were 42% vs. 49% and 30% vs. 22% for the SOC versus KarMMa‐1 cohorts, respectively. Grade 3–4 cytopenias for SOC versus KarMMa‐1 cohorts were: neutropenia (87% vs. 89%), anaemia (51% vs. 60%) and thrombocytopenia (65% vs. 52%). Overall response rate was higher for the SOC cohort (93% vs. 73%), as was the complete response or better rate (48% vs. 33%). However, median progression‐free survival and overall survival were comparable between the two groups. Our findings support broadening the inclusion criteria of future trials evaluating ide‐cel.
RNA methylation in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Ozato Yuki , Hara Tomoaki , Meng Sikun , Sato Hiromichi , Tatekawa Shotaro , Uemura Mamoru , Yabumoto Takeshi , Uchida Shizuka , Ogawa Kazuhiko , Doki Yuichiro , Eguchi Hidetoshi , Ishii Hideshi
Published: January 2024

RNA modifications, including the renowned m6A, have recently garnered significant attention. This chemical alteration, present in mRNA, exerts a profound influence on protein expression levels by affecting splicing, nuclear export, stability, translation, and other critical processes. Although the role of RNA methylation in the pathogenesis and progression of IBD and colorectal cancer has been reported, many aspects remain unresolved. In this comprehensive review, we present recent studies on RNA methylation in IBD and colorectal cancer, with a particular focus on m6A and its regulators. We highlight the pivotal role of m6A in the pathogenesis of IBD and colorectal cancer and explore the potential applications of m6A modifications in the diagnosis and treatment of these diseases.