Abstract: A non invasive diagnostic method of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) in a subject is provided. The method comprises the step of measuring the level of ?ig-h3 protein in a blood sample wherein the serum level of ?ig-h3 is positively correlated with the risk of having a PDAC. By following studies on 2 distinct cohorts of 20 and 104 of PDAC patients, and on PDAC mouse model, the inventors show that ?ig-h3 can be directly detected in the blood sample and ?ig-h3 is expressed very early in tumorigenesis in pancreatic neoplastic lesions. Also provided is a ?ig-h3 protein, for use in the treatment of PDAC. The inventors found that ?ig-h3 bind directly on CD8+ T cells by reducing their activation and cytotoxic properties. Furthermore, the use of neutralizing ?ig-h3 antibodies in PDAC mouse model reduced tumor growth by enhancing CD8+ T cell anti-tumoral response.

Abstract: An internal reforming molten carbonate fuel cell having a membrane for intercepting carbonate vapor and hydrated vapor is disclosed. The intercepting membrane is made from nickel or nickel alloy which has a high electrical conductivity, corrosion resistant property in an anode environment, and a low affinity for the carbonate vapor. Due to the presence of the intercepting membrane, the transfer of the carbonate vapors and hydrated vapors to the internal reforming catalyst is markedly retarded to prolong the catalytic activity. As a result, a longer operating molten carbonate fuel cell can be obtained.

Abstract: An internal reforming molten carbonate fuel cell having a membrane for intercepting carbonate vapor and hydrated vapor is disclosed. The intercepting membrane is made from nickel or nickel alloy which has a high electrical conductivity, corrosion resistant property in an anode environment, and a low affinity for the carbonate vapor. Due to the presence of the intercepting membrane, the transfer of the carbonate vapors and hydrated vapors to the internal reforming catalyst is markedly retarded to prolong the catalytic activity. As a result, a longer operating molten carbonate fuel cell can be obtained.