bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Propellant-Assisted Perforating—An Alternative Stimulation Solution in Heavily Karstified Carbonate Reservoirs
Authors: Robinson Fergus , Folse Kent C. , Brinsden Mark S. , Wong Dominic
Published: October 2009

Two gas fields offshore Sarawak, Malaysia, are characterized by heavily karstified carbonate reservoirs. These reservoirs are typified by significant porosity and permeability heterogeneities such that large fluid-loss zones are commonly encountered while drilling the reservoir section. The drilling strategy for the subsea development wells called for the use of a solid drill-in liner as a contingency should major losses be encountered while drilling the reservoir section. This strategy stands opposed to using a predrilled liner. The use of a drill-in liner, however, necessitates perforating.

Typically, completions in such reservoirs are acid stimulated to maximize productivity. Complete stimulation of the reservoir section is very difficult to achieve using acid-diversion techniques in a karstic environment because of the large variability in the permeability. Propellant-assisted perforating was considered because it achieves effective stimulation diversion, equally across the entire perforated interval. Modeling work indicated that fracture lengths of 5 ft or longer would propagate from each perforation tunnel. Such large propagation lengths greatly increased the probability of connecting the completion directly to karstic features in the reservoir, to provide enhanced inflow performance. Another significant benefit was that perforation and stimulation would take place in a single operation, thereby reducing the health, safety, and environment (HSE) risk associated with handling acid, while saving rig time.

Two successful field trials, totaling three wells, will be presented in detail to illustrate this application for propellant-assisted perforating. The data presented include prejob planning, execution, and post-job inflow-performance analysis. The result was three world-class, low-drawdown wells, each capable of delivering 200 MMscf/ D, providing well capacity that met or exceeded expectations.

Applying the propellant-assisted perforating technique in three subsea wells in heavily karstified carbonate reservoirs has proved that this technique can offer a highly effective stimulation method across the entire perforated interval in such an environment. Additionally, its usage eliminates the need for conventional, separate acid stimulation, saving rig time and costs while reducing HSE risks.
Determination of sulphide concentrates of ore copper by XRPD and chemical analysis
Authors: Cocic Mira , Logar Mihovil , Cocic Sasa , Zivkovic Dragana , Matovic Branko , Devic Snezana
Published: October 2009

Roasting process of sulphide copper concentrates in fluo-solid reactor is an oxidation process, and presents the first stage of copper concentrate processing in Copper Mining and Smelting Complex Bor, RTB Bor. Therefore, the importance of accurate and up to date process control is an apparent precondition for the correct treatment in the following stages and also for of high grade cathode copper. As concentrate is fed into the roaster, it is heated by a stream of hot air to about 590?C. The process takes place between solid and gaseous phases without the appearance of a liquid phase. The heat generated by the exothermic oxidation reaction of sulphur from cooper and iron minerals (chalcopyrite and pyrite) is sufficient to carry out the entire process autogenously at temperature from 620 to 670?C. The temperature of sulphur firing which defines the start of roasting depends on physical traits, particle size of sulfides and characteristic product of oxidation. The obtained products of the roasting process are: calcine, ready for smelting in the furnace and gas-rich sulphure dioxide (SO2), well suited for the production of sulfuric acid. The relationship between the quantitative mineral composition of the charge and of the calcine directly points out to the efficiency of the roasting process in fluo-solid reactor. The amount of bornite and magnetite, resulting from the sulfide oxidation is the most important parameter. Hence, quantitative determination of mineral composition is of great interest. In this work, the results of the determination of quantitative mineral composition of the copper sulphide concentrate (charge) and products of their roasting (calcine and overflow) in fluo-solid reactor in the RTB Bor are presented. The aim was to compare the results of the iron, copper, sulfur and oxygen contents determined by two independent techniques, the chemical (HA) and X-ray powder diffraction analysis (XRPD) that is based on the quantitative mineral composition. Differences in the obtained results are evident, but small enough to confirm the reliability of measurement.
Ethylene oxide removal by sorption on aluminium oxide
Authors: Arsenijevic Zorana , Grbic Bosko , Radic Nenad , Garic-Grulovic Radmila , Grbavcic Zeljko
Published: October 2009

The dynamics of ethylene oxide sorption and desorption on Al2O3 sorbent were investigated. The investigations of ethylene oxide sorption on Al2O3 show that significant sorption appeared above 125?C. The removal of sorbed ethylene oxide from Al2O3 was achieved by continuous increasing of the temperature up to 450?C in air stream. The analysis of desorbed products show that 90% of adsorbed ethylene oxide is converted to CO2 and the rest consists of the three derivatives of ethylene oxide. The exact composition of desorbed organic products will be determined in further investigation. The desorption temperature profiles point out the presence of two exothermic picks, as was confirmed by detection of CO2 and derivates of ethylene oxide at these temperatures. Investigation of textural characteristics and thermal stability of Al2O3 sorbent show that there are no changes of any characteristics of Al2O3 in sorption/desorption operating temperatures regimes. Only at 700?C the specific surface area of Al2O3 decreases of about 10%. This indicates that the investigated Al2O3 is convenient material for removal of ethylene oxide by sorption.
The effect of spiromesifen on the reproductive potential of Tetranychus urticae koch (Acari: Tetranychidae)
Authors: Marcic Dejan , Ogurlic Irena , Mutavdzic Slavka , Peric Pantelija
Published: October 2009

Laboratory bioassays were conducted to evaluate the effects of spiromesifen on the fecundity, fertility and population growth of two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae Koch) after treatment of pre-ovipositing females with five acaricide concentrations: 180 mg/l (maximum recommended concentration for use in glasshouses against spider mites), 18 mg/l, 1.8 mg/l and 0.18 mg/l (the last one was discriminative for eggs and immatures in preliminary studies, i.e. produced 100% mortality of those stages) and 0.018 mg/l. After 24h exposure, the percentages of females surviving treatment without visible symptoms of poisoning were 50% (180 mg/l), 45% (18 mg/l), 51% (1.8 mg/l), 74% (0.18 mg/l), 96% (0.018 mg/l) and 98% (0 mg/l). Over the first four days after treatment, the females that survived 180 mg/l and 18 mg/l laid no eggs. The total number of eggs laid after treatment with these two concentrations was reduced to less than 2% against the control by the end of the trial. The females that survived 1.8 mg/l laid 50% less eggs, compared to the control, while the number of eggs laid by the females treated with 0.18 mg/l and 0.018 mg/l were 19% and 4% lower, respectively. Over the initial four days, egg hatch rates in treatments were 73-87%, and 92-93% in the control. Significant statistical differences between gross fecundity (FCg) and gross fertility (FTg) values in the control and treatments were detected for females surviving 180 mg/l, 18 mg/l and 1.8 mg/l. On the other hand, only the net fertility (FTn) value of females treated with 0.018 mg/l showed no statistically significant difference from the control value. Treatments with 180 mg/l and 18 mg/l significantly reduced the instantaneous rate of increase (ri) 6, 8 and 10 days after treatment, compared to the control. The negative ri values in those treatments indicated a declining population. Sublethal effects of spiromesifen and its impact on T. urticae management are discussed.
Cleavage of Protein Kinase D After Acute Hypoinsulinemia Prevents Excessive Lipoprotein Lipase–Mediated Cardiac Triglyceride Accumulation
Authors: Kim Min Suk , Wang Fang , Puthanveetil Prasanth , Kewalramani Girish , Innis Sheila , Marzban Lucy , Steinberg Susan F. , Webber Travis D. , Kieffer Timothy J. , Abrahani Ashraf , Rodrigues Brian
Published: October 2009

OBJECTIVE

During hypoinsulinemia, when cardiac glucose utilization is impaired, the heart rapidly adapts to using more fatty acids. One means by which this is achieved is through lipoprotein lipase (LPL). We determined the mechanisms by which the heart regulates LPL after acute hypoinsulinemia.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We used two different doses of streptozocin (55 [d-55] and 100 [d-100] mg/kg) to induce moderate and severe hypoinsulinemia, respectively, in rats. Isolated cardiomyocytes were also used for transfection or silencing of protein kinase D (PKD) and caspase-3.

RESULTS

There was substantial increase in LPL in d-55 hearts, an effect that was absent in severely hypoinsulinemic d-100 animals. Measurement of PKD, a key element involved in increasing LPL, revealed that only d-100 hearts showed an increase in proteolysis of PKD, an effect that required activation of caspase-3 together with loss of 14-3-3ζ, a binding protein that protects enzymes against degradation. In vitro, phosphomimetic PKD colocalized with LPL in the trans-golgi. PKD, when mutated to prevent its cleavage by caspase-3 and silencing of caspase-3, was able to increase LPL activity. Using a caspase inhibitor (Z-DEVD) in d-100 animals, we effectively lowered caspase-3 activity, prevented PKD cleavage, and increased LPL vesicle formation and translocation to the vascular lumen. This increase in cardiac luminal LPL was associated with a striking accumulation of cardiac triglyceride in Z-DEVD–treated d-100 rats.

CONCLUSIONS

After severe hypoinsulinemia, activation of caspase-3 can restrict LPL translocation to the vascular lumen. When caspase-3 is inhibited, this compensatory response is lost, leading to lipid accumulation in the heart.
Smoothing of rational m-ropes
Authors: Ballico Edoardo , Gasparim Elizabeth , Köppe Thomas
Published: October 2009

In a recent paper, Gallego, González and Purnaprajna showed that rational 3-ropes can be smoothed. We generalise their proof, and obtain smoothability of rational m-ropes for m ≥ 3.
Feedback Nash equilibria in optimal taxation problems
Authors: Krastanov Mikhail , Rozenov Rossen
Published: October 2009

A well-known result in public economics is that capital income should not be taxed in the long run. This result has been derived using necessary optimality conditions for an appropriate dynamic Stackelberg game. In this paper we consider three models of dynamic taxation in continuous time and suggest a method for calculating their feedback Nash equilibria based on a sufficient condition for optimality. We show that the optimal tax on capital income is generally different from zero.
A Hilbert cube compactification of the function space with the compact-open topology
Authors: Kogasaka Atsushi , Sakai Katsuro
Published: October 2009

Let X be an infinite, locally connected, locally compact separable metrizable space. The space C(X) of real-valued continuous functions defined on X with the compact-open topology is a separable Fréchet space, so it is homeomorphic to the psuedo-interior s = (−1, 1)ℕ of the Hilbert cube Q = [−1, 1]ℕ. In this paper, generalizing the Sakai-Uehara’s result to the non-compact case, we construct a natural compactification $$
\bar C
$$(X) of C(X) such that the pair ($$
\bar C
$$(X), C(X)) is homeomorphic to (Q, s). In case X has no isolated points, this compactification $$
\bar C
$$(X) coincides with the space USCCF(X,) of all upper semi-continuous set-valued functions φ: X → = [−∞, ∞] such that each φ(x) is a closed interval, where the topology for USCCF(X, ) is inherited from the Fell hyperspace Cld*F(X × ) of all closed sets in X × .
Finiteness theorems for algebraic cycles of small codimension on quadric fibrations over curves
Authors: González-Avilés Cristian
Published: October 2009

We obtain finiteness theorems for algebraic cycles of small codimension on quadric fibrations over curves over perfect fields. For example, if k is finitely generated over ℚ and X → C is a quadric fibration of odd relative dimension at least 11, then CH
i(X) is finitely generated for i ≤ 4.
On zeta-functions associated to certain cusp forms. II
Authors: Laurinčikas Antanas , Steuding Joern , Šiaučiūnas Darius
Published: October 2009

A formula for the mean value of multiplicative functions associated to certain cusp forms is obtained. The paper is a continuation of [4].
On order structure and operators in L
∞(μ)
Authors: Krasikova Irina , Martín Miguel , Merí Javier , Mykhaylyuk Vladimir , Popov Mikhail
Published: October 2009

It is known that there is a continuous linear functional on L
∞ which is not narrow. On the other hand, every order-to-norm continuous AM-compact operator from L
∞(μ) to a Banach space is narrow. We study order-to-norm continuous operators acting from L
∞(μ) with a finite atomless measure μ to a Banach space. One of our main results asserts that every order-to-norm continuous operator from L
∞(μ) to c
0(Γ) is narrow while not every such an operator is AM-compact.
Generalizations of the Jensen-Steffensen and related inequalities
Authors: Bakula Milica , Matić Marko , Pečarić Josip
Published: October 2009

We present a couple of general inequalities related to the Jensen-Steffensen inequality in its discrete and integral form. The Jensen-Steffensen inequality, Slater’s inequality and a generalization of the counterpart to the Jensen-Steffensen inequality are deduced as special cases from these general inequalities.
Statistical approximation properties of q-Baskakov-Kantorovich operators
Authors: Gupta Vijay , Radu Cristina
Published: October 2009

In the present paper we introduce a q-analogue of the Baskakov-Kantorovich operators and investigate their weighted statistical approximation properties. By using a weighted modulus of smoothness, we give some direct estimations for error in case 0 < q < 1.
Soil concentration of selected polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons around the Petrochemical Plant in Płock in 1987-2006
Authors: Indeka Leonard , Karaczun Zbigniew , Obidoska Grażyna
Published: October 2009

Soil concentration of selected polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons around the Petrochemical Plant in Płock in 1987-2006

The Petrochemical Plant Orlen S.A. in Płock was constructed in the 1960s as one of the largest objects of this type in Europe. The facility was unfortunately located among agricultural areas. In the 1990s the plant implemented a number of investments aimed at lowering pollutant loads released to the environment. There is no information, however, whether these investments were successful in decreasing soil pollution with tar substances and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and raising the security level for agricultural production within the area. The aim of the research was, therefore, to provide this information. The research was conducted within the agricultural area around the plant. Soil samples were collected in the north-eastern direction from the facility, at five research points at: 1 km, 3 km, 6 km, 12 km and 18 km distances. Concentration of tar substances and PAHs was evaluated and compared with the data from 1987. The results show that PAH emissions from the plant decreased due to the aforementioned environmental investments, which in turn resulted in a significant drop of PAH concentration in soils in around the plant (1-3 km). Nevertheless, their level is still high (especially 1 km away from the refinery) when compared with uncontaminated sites.
The Shuttle Radar Topography Mission Digital Elevation Model as an alternative data source for deriving hydrological characteristics in lowland catchment — Rogożynek catchment case study
Authors: Wasilewski Michał , Chormański Jarosław
Published: October 2009

The Shuttle Radar Topography Mission Digital Elevation Model as an alternative data source for deriving hydrological characteristics in lowland catchment — Rogożynek catchment case study

This paper describes possibility of supplementing digital topography data needed for hydrologic modeling (WetSpa model) of lowland catchment with existing, freely available DEM data obtained from Shuttle Radar Topography Mission launched on February 11th, 2000. Rogożynek basin (Upper Biebrza) as case study is given. Authors compared three DEMs: topographic — TOPO DEM 20 (20 m resolution), radar — SRTM DEM 90 (90 m res.) and resampled radar — SRTM DEM 20 (20 m res.). There were several characteristics compared and analyzed like: relative height differences, slopes, generated river network and generated subwatersheds (subbasins).
Molecular Momentum Transport at Fluid-Solid Interfaces in MEMS/NEMS: A Review
Authors: Cao Bing-Yang , Sun Jun , Chen Min , Guo Zeng-Yuan
Published: October 2009

This review is focused on molecular momentum transport at fluid-solid interfaces mainly related to microfluidics and nanofluidics in micro-/nano-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS/NEMS). This broad subject covers molecular dynamics behaviors, boundary conditions, molecular momentum accommodations, theoretical and phenomenological models in terms of gas-solid and liquid-solid interfaces affected by various physical factors, such as fluid and solid species, surface roughness, surface patterns, wettability, temperature, pressure, fluid viscosity and polarity. This review offers an overview of the major achievements, including experiments, theories and molecular dynamics simulations, in the field with particular emphasis on the effects on microfluidics and nanofluidics in nanoscience and nanotechnology. In Section 1 we present a brief introduction on the backgrounds, history and concepts. Sections 2 and 3 are focused on molecular momentum transport at gas-solid and liquid-solid interfaces, respectively. Summary and conclusions are finally presented in Section 4.
Anisotropic Porous Biodegradable Scaffolds for Musculoskeletal Tissue Engineering
Authors: De Mulder Eric L. W. , Buma Pieter , Hannink Gerjon
Published: October 2009

It has been generally accepted that tissue engineered constructs should closely resemble the in-vivo mechanical and structural properties of the tissues they are intended to replace. However, most scaffolds produced so far were isotropic porous scaffolds with non-characterized mechanical properties, different from those of the native healthy tissue. Tissues that are formed into these scaffolds are initially formed in the isotropic porous structure and since most tissues have significant anisotropic extracellular matrix components and concomitant mechanical properties, the formed tissues have no structural and functional relationships with the native tissues. The complete regeneration of tissues requires a second differentiation step after resorption of the isotropic scaffold. It is doubtful if the required plasticity for this remains present in already final differentiated tissue. It would be much more efficacious if the newly formed tissues in the scaffold could differentiate directly into the anisotropic organization of the native tissues. Therefore, anisotropic scaffolds that enable such a direct differentiation might be extremely helpful to realize this goal. Up to now, anisotropic scaffolds have been fabricated using modified conventional techniques, solid free-form fabrication techniques, and a few alternative methods. In this review we present the current status and discuss the procedures that are currently being used for anisotropic scaffold fabrication.
Activation of Hepatic Lipase Expression by Oleic Acid: Possible Involvement of USF1
Authors: Van Deursen Diederik , Van Leeuwen Marije , Akdogan Deniz , Adams Hadie , Jansen Hans , Verhoeven Adrie J. M.
Published: October 2009

Polyunsaturated fatty acids affect gene expression mainly through peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) and sterol regulatory element binding proteins (SREBPs), but how monounsaturated fatty acids affect gene expression is poorly understood. In HepG2 cells, oleate supplementation has been shown to increase secretion of hepatic lipase (HL). We hypothesized that oleate affects HL gene expression at the transcriptional level. To test this, we studied the effect of oleate on HL promoter activity using HepG2 cells and the proximal HL promoter region (700 bp). Oleate increased HL expression and promoter activity 1.3–2.1 fold and reduced SREBP activity by 50%. Downregulation of SREBP activity by incubation with cholesterol+25-hydroxycholesterol had no effect on HL promoter activity. Overexpression of SREBP2, but not SREBP1, reduced HL promoter activity, which was effected mainly through the USF1 binding site at -307/-312. Oleate increased the nuclear abundance of USF1 protein 2.7 ± 0.6 fold, while USF1 levels were reduced by SREBP2 overexpression. We conclude that oleate increases HL gene expression via USF1. USF1 may be an additional fatty acid sensor in liver cells.
Terson Syndrome From a Significant Cerebral Infarct Occurring During the Peripartum Period
Authors: Chu Edward Rickie L. , Sandinha Teresa , Lake Stewart , Pater John
Published: October 2009

This case report describes a 23-day-old infant with significant infarct in the right middle cerebral artery territory associated with intraparenchymal hemorrhage within the infarct, subdural hygroma, and bilateral intraocular hemorrhage. The features, severity, and timing of the pathology are suggestive of Terson syndrome that has occurred during the peripartum period.
Giant Cell Astrocytoma of the Retina in a 1-Month-Old Infant
Authors: Jung Cecilia S. , Hubbard G. Baker , Grossniklaus Hans E.
Published: October 2009

A 1-month-old male infant with tuberous sclerosis presented with leukocoria for an evaluation of possible retinoblastoma. The patient had several Ash leaf spots and multiple subependymal lesions on computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. He was found to have a large intraocular tumor in the left eye. B-scan ultrasonography of the mass did not show any calcifications. Given the size of the tumor, poor visual prognosis, and a small possibility of a retinoblastoma, the enucleation of the eye was performed. The mass revealed a retinal giant cell astrocytoma mainly composed of two cell types—giant, round cells and spindle-shaped cells—with associated aggregates of mononuclear inflammatory cells. Immunohistochemical stains were positive for neuron-specific enolase, glial fibrillary acidic protein, and S-100 protein in both cell types. CD3 and CD68 staining were positive in the mononuclear inflammatory cells. Unlike previously reported cases of giant cell astrocytic hamartomas, the current case did not reveal calcifications or substantial inflammations.
A New Transconjunctival Muscle Reinsertion Technique for Minimally Invasive Strabismus Surgery
Authors: Mojon Daniel S.
Published: October 2009

Purpose:

To describe a novel, minimally invasive strabismus surgery (MISS) technique for horizontal rectus muscle recessions, plications, and advancements.

Methods:

Subjects for this prospective study were the first 20 consecutive patients who underwent unilateral horizontal rectus muscle surgery with a transconjunctival suturing (TRASU) technique for primary muscle displacements of 4.5 mm or greater or for repeat muscle displacements of 3.0 mm or greater.

Results:

The TRASU technique was associated with no increase in complication rate and was accomplished through a conjunctival approach with an incision that was smaller by 31% ± 11% compared to incisions for previously described MISS approaches. Of the 19 patients (20 eyes) returning for follow-up, 11 (55%) had minimal redness as the only grossly visible sign of surgery on the first postoperative day. By 6 months postoperatively, visual acuity and refractive error were not significantly different from preoperative values (
P
> .10 for each).

Conclusion:

The TRASU technique is safe and can be accomplished through a conjunctival incision that averages two-thirds the size of incisions for previously reported MISS techniques.
Isolated Anterior Chamber Relapse in a Child With Chronic Myeloid Leukemia: Masquerade Syndrome
Authors: Seong Mincheol , Kim Myoung Joon , Tchah Hungwon , Seo Jong Jin
Published: October 2009

The authors report a case of anterior uveitis with hypopyon that was refractory to topical corticosteroid therapy. A detailed history revealed that the patient had chronic myeloid leukemia. Cytology in the aqueous humor was consistent with relapse of chronic myeloid leukemia.
Predictors of Research Utilization among Pediatric Occupational Therapists
Authors: Brown Ted , Tseng Mei Hui , Casey Jaqueline , McDonald Rachael , Lyons Carissa
Published: October 2009

Evidence-based practice and research utilization activities by clinicians enable clients to receive the best, most current health care available. This study investigated the factors predicting pediatric occupational therapists' attitudes toward evidence-based practice and research utilization in Australia, the United Kingdom, and Taiwan. Questionnaires were received from 696 participants (response rate = 56.58%) who completed the Edmonton Research Orientation Survey (EROS), the Research Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Research Survey (KAP Survey), and the Barriers to Research Utilization Scale (BARRIERS). The results of the multiple linear regression analysis indicated the strongest predictor of research utilization was “level of academic occupational therapy qualification,” which was found to be predictive of all of the EROS subscales. The second EROS subscale, “research involvement,” had the largest number of predictive factors. To increase research utilization among pediatric occupational therapists, it is important to be mindful of which aspects of research require improvement so that strategies with the greatest impact and influence can be implemented.
The Novel Lipopolysaccharide-Binding Protein CRISPLD2 Is a Critical Serum Protein to Regulate Endotoxin Function
Authors: Wang Zhi-Qin , Xing Wen-Ming , Fan Hua-Hua , Wang Ke-Sheng , Zhang Hai-Kuo , Wang Qin-Wan , Qi Jia , Yang Hong-Meng , Yang Jie , Ren Ya-Na , Cui Shu-Jian , Zhang Xin , Liu Feng , Lin Dao-Hong , Wang Wen-Hui , Hoffmann Michael K. , Han Ze-Guang
Published: October 2009

LPS is an immunostimulatory component of Gram-negative bacteria. Acting on the immune system in a systemic fashion, LPS exposes the body to the hazard of septic shock. In this study we report that cysteine-rich secretory protein LCCL domain containing 2 (CRISPLD2/Crispld2; human and mouse/rat versions, respectively), expressed by multitissues and leukocytes, is a novel LPS-binding protein. As a serum protein, median CRISPLD2 concentrations in health volunteers and umbilical cord blood samples are 607 μg/ml and 290 μg/ml, respectively. Human peripheral blood granulocytes and mononuclear cells including monocytes, NK cells, and T cells spontaneously release CRISPLD2 (range, 0.2–0.9 μg/ml) and enhance CRISPLD2 secretion (range, 1.5–4.2 μg/ml) in response to stimulation of both LPS and humanized anti-human TLR4-IgA Ab in vitro. CRISPLD2 exhibits significant LPS binding affinity similar to that of soluble CD14, prevents LPS binding to target cells, reduces LPS-induced TNF-α and IL-6 production, and protects mice against endotoxin shock. In in vivo experiments, serum Crispld2 concentrations increased in response to a nontoxic dose of LPS and correlated negatively with LPS lethality, suggesting that CRISPLD2 serum concentrations not only are indicators of the degree of a body’s exposure to LPS but also reflect an individual’s LPS sensitivity.
Human Follicular Lymphoma CD39+-Infiltrating T Cells Contribute to Adenosine-Mediated T Cell Hyporesponsiveness
Authors: Hilchey Shannon P. , Kobie James J. , Cochran Mathew R. , Secor-Socha Shelley , Wang Jyh-Chiang E. , Hyrien Ollivier , Burack W. Richard , Mosmann Tim R. , Quataert Sally A. , Bernstein Steven H.
Published: October 2009

Our previous work has demonstrated that human follicular lymphoma (FL) infiltrating T cells are anergic, in part due to suppression by regulatory T cells. In this study, we identify pericellular adenosine, interacting with T cell-associated G protein-coupled A2A/B adenosine receptors (AR), as contributing to FL T cell hyporesponsiveness. In a subset of FL patient samples, treatment of lymph node mononuclear cells (LNMC) with specific A2A/B AR antagonists results in an increase in IFN-γ or IL-2 secretion upon anti-CD3/CD28 Ab stimulation, as compared with that seen without inhibitors. In contrast, treatment with an A1 AR antagonist had no effect on cytokine secretion. As the rate limiting step for adenosine generation from pericellular ATP is the ecto-ATPase CD39, we next show that inhibition of CD39 activity using the inhibitor ARL 67156 partially overcomes T cell hyporesponsiveness in a subset of patient samples. Phenotypic characterization of LNMC demonstrates populations of CD39-expressing CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, which are overrepresented in FL as compared with that seen in normal or reactive nodes, or normal peripheral blood. Thirty percent of the FL CD4+CD39+ T cells coexpress CD25high and FOXP3 (consistent with regulatory T cells). Finally, FL or normal LNMC hydrolyze ATP in vitro, in a dose- and time-dependent fashion, with the rate of ATP consumption being associated with the degree of CD39+ T cell infiltration. Together, these results support the finding that the ATP-ectonucleotidase-adenosine system mediates T cell anergy in a human tumor. In addition, these studies suggest that the A2A/B AR as well as CD39 are novel pharmacological targets for augmenting cancer immunotherapy.
Cupressaceae Pollen Grains Modulate Dendritic Cell Response and Exhibit IgE-Inducing Adjuvant Activity In Vivo
Authors: Kamijo Seiji , Takai Toshiro , Kuhara Takatoshi , Tokura Tomoko , Ushio Hiroko , Ota Mikiko , Harada Norihiro , Ogawa Hideoki , Okumura Ko
Published: October 2009

Pollen is considered a source of not only allergens but also immunomodulatory substances, which could play crucial roles in sensitization and/or the exacerbation of allergies. We investigated how allergenic pollens from different plant species (Japanese cedar and Japanese cypress, which belong to the Cupressaceae family, and birch, ragweed, and grass) modulate murine bone marrow-derived dendritic cell (DC) responses and examined the effect of Cupressaceae pollen in vivo using mice. DCs were stimulated with pollen extracts or grains in the presence or absence of LPS. Cell maturation and cytokine production in DCs were analyzed by flow cytometry, ELISA, and/or quantitative PCR. Pollen extracts suppressed LPS-induced IL-12 production and the effect was greatest for birch and grass. Without LPS, pollen grains induced DC maturation and cytokine production without IL-12 secretion and the response, for which TLR 4 was dispensable, was greatest for the Cupressaceae family. Intranasal administration of Cupressaceae pollen in mice induced an elevation of serum IgE levels and airway eosinophil infiltration. Coadministration of ovalbumin with Cupressaceae pollen grains induced ovalbumin-specific IgE responses associated with eosinophil infiltration. The results suggest that modulation of DC responses by pollen differs among the plant families via (1) the promotion of DC maturation and cytokine production by direct contact and/or (2) the inhibition of IL-12 production by soluble factors. The strong DC stimulatory activity in vitro and IgE-inducing activity in mice support the clinical relevance of Cupressaceae pollen to allergies in humans.
CD36 and TLR Interactions in Inflammation and Phagocytosis: Implications for Malaria
Authors: Erdman Laura K. , Cosio Gabriela , Helmers Andrew J. , Gowda D. Channe , Grinstein Sergio , Kain Kevin C.
Published: October 2009

CD36 participates in macrophage internalization of a variety of particles, and has been implicated in inflammatory responses to many of these ligands. To what extent CD36 cooperates with other receptors in mediating these processes remains unclear. Because CD36 has been shown to cooperate with TLR2, we investigated the roles and interactions of CD36 and TLRs in inflammation and phagocytosis. Using Ab-induced endocytosis of CD36 and phagocytosis of erythrocytes displaying Abs to CD36, we show that selective engagement and internalization of this receptor did not lead to proinflammatory cytokine production by primary human and murine macrophages. In addition, CD36-mediated phagocytosis of Plasmodium falciparum malaria-parasitized erythrocytes (PEs), which contain parasite components that activate TLRs, also failed to induce cytokine secretion from primary macrophages. Furthermore, we demonstrate that CD36-mediated internalization did not require TLR2 or the TLR-signaling molecule IRAK4. However, macrophage pretreatment with TLR agonists markedly stimulated particle uptake via CD36. Similarly, PE uptake was unaffected by TLR deficiency, but in wild-type cells was increased by pretreatment with purified P. falciparum glycosylphosphatidylinositols, which activate TLR2. Our findings indicate that CD36 must cooperate with other receptors such as TLRs to participate in cytokine responses. Although purified P. falciparum components activate TLRs, CD36-mediated internalization of intact PEs is not inflammatory. Further, CD36 mediates internalization of particles, including PEs, independently of TLR signaling, but can functionally cooperate with TLRs to enhance internalization.
Complement Activation by CpG in a Human Whole Blood Loop System: Mechanisms and Immunomodulatory Effects
Authors: Mangsbo Sara M. , Sanchez Javier , Anger Kerstin , Lambris John D. , Ekdahl Kristina Nilsson , Loskog Angelica S. , Nilsson Bo , Tötterman Thomas H.
Published: October 2009

Phosphorothioate oligodeoxynucleotides can activate complement, and experimental murine studies have revealed differential effects upon simultaneous TLR stimulation and complement activation compared with either event alone. We set out to investigate the immune stimulatory effects of CpG 2006 in fresh non-anticoagulated human blood with or without presence of active complement. We also sought to elucidate the mechanism behind complement activation upon stimulation with phosphorothioate CpG 2006. In a human blood loop system, both backbone and sequence-specific effects by CpG were counteracted by selective inhibition of C3. Furthermore, DNA backbone-mediated CD40 and CD83 expression on monocytes and sequence-specific IL-6 and TNF production were reduced by complement inhibition. CpG-induced complement activation occurred via either the classical or the alternative pathway and deposits of both IgM and properdin, two activators of complement, were detected on CpG after incubation with EDTA plasma. Quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring demonstrated alternative pathway convertase build-up onto CpG as a likely pathway to initiate and sustain complement activation. Specific inhibition of C3 suppressed CpG 2006 uptake into monocytes indicating that C3 fragments are involved in CpG internalization. The interplay between complement and TLR9 signaling demonstrated herein warrants further investigation.
Effect of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate-Fumaric Acid Coupled Addition on theIn VitroRumen Fermentation with Special Regard to Methanogenesis
Authors: Abdl-Rahman M. A. , Sawiress F. A. R. , Abd El-Aty A. M.
Published: October 2009

The aim of the current study was to evaluate the effect of sodium lauryl sulfate-fumaric acid coupled addition onin vitromethangenesis and rumen fermentation. Evaluation was carried out usingin vitrogas production technique. Ruminal contents were collected from five steers immediately after slaughtering and used for preparation of inoculums of mixed rumen microorganisms. Rumen fluid was then mixed with the basal diet of steers and used to generate four treatments, negative control (no additives), sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) treated, fumaric acid treated, and SLS-fumaric acid coupled addition treated. The results revealed that, relative to control, efficiency in reduction of methanogenesis was as follows: coupled addition > SLS-addition > fumaric acid addition. Both SLS-addition and SLS-fumaric acid coupled addition demonstrated a decremental effect on ammonia nitrogen (–), total short chain volatile fatty acids (SCVFAs) concentrations and the amount of substrate degraded, and an increment effect on microbial mass and microbial yield (). Nevertheless, fumaric acid did not alter any of the previously mentioned parameters but induced a decremental effect on –. Furthermore, both fumaric acid and SLS-fumaric acid coupled addition increased propionate at the expense of acetate and butyrate, while, defaunation increased acetate at the expense of propionate and butyrate. The pH value was decreased by all treatments relative to control, while, cellulase activity did not differ by different treatments. The current study can be promising strategies for suppressing ruminal methane emissions and improving ruminants feed efficiency.
Rheology and thermal properties of polypropylene modified by reactive extrusion with dicumyl peroxide and trimethylol propane triacrylate
Authors: Su Feng‐Hua , Huang Han‐Xiong
Published: October 2009

Trimethylol propane triacrylate (TMPTA) and dicumyl peroxide (DCP) were used to modify polypropylene (PP) by reactive extrusion in a twin‐screw extruder. The effects of TMPTA concentration on oscillatory shear rheology, melt elongational rheology, and thermal properties were comparatively evaluated. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy indicated that the grafting reaction took place and TMPTA had been grafted onto the PP backbone. Differential scanning calorimetric results showed that the crystallization temperatures of modified PPs were higher than those of the initial and degraded PPs. The rheological characteristics such as higher storage modulus (G′) at low frequency, increased degree of shear thinning, a plateau in tan δ–ω plot, and upturning at high viscosity in the Cole–Cole plots proved that the long‐chain branches have been added to the linear PP molecule. The melt elongational rheology showed that the modified PPs exhibit improved melt strength and increased elongational viscosity in the presence of TMPTA and DCP, which further confirmed the existence of long‐chain branching (LCB) in their backbone. According to the analytical results from oscillatory shear rheology and elongational rheology, it can be inferred that the LCB level in modified samples increases with an increase in TMPTA concentration. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 28:16–25, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/adv.20146
Improving the performance of natural gas pipeline networks fuel consumption minimization problems
Authors: Tabkhi F. , Pibouleau L. , Hernandez‐Rodriguez G. , Azzaro‐Pantel C. , Domenech S.
Published: October 2009

As the gas industry has developed, gas pipeline networks have evolved over decades into very complex systems. A typical network today might consist of thousands of pipes, dozens of stations, and many other devices, such as valves and regulators. Inside each station, there can be several groups of compressor units of various vintages that were installed as the capacity of the system expanded. The compressor stations typically consume about 3–5% of the transported gas. It is estimated that the global optimization of operations can save considerably the fuel consumed by the stations. Hence, the problem of minimizing fuel cost is of great importance. Consequently, the objective is to operate a given compressor station or a set of compressor stations so that the total fuel consumption is reduced while maintaining the desired throughput in the line. Two case studies illustrate the proposed methodology. Case 1 was chosen for its simple and small‐size design, developed for the sake of illustration. The implementation of the methodology is thoroughly presented and typical results are analyzed. Case 2 was submitted by the French Company Gaz de France. It is a more complex network containing several loops, supply nodes, and delivery points, referred as a multisupply multidelivery transmission network. The key points of implementation of an optimization framework are presented. The treatment of both case studies provides some guidelines for optimization of the operating performances of pipeline networks, according to the complexity of the involved problems. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2010
Segregated targeting for multiple resource networks using decomposition algorithm
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Santanu , Sahu Gopal Chandra , Foo Dominic Chwan Yee , Tan Raymond R.
Published: October 2009

A generalized decomposition technique is presented for determining optimal resource usage in segregated targeting problems with single quality index (e.g., concentration, temperature, etc.) through pinch analysis. The latter problems are concerned with determining minimal resource requirements of process networks characterized by the existence of multiple zones, each consisting of a set of demands and using a unique external resource. However, all the zones share a common set of internal sources. The decomposition algorithm allows the problem to be decomposed into a sequence of subproblems, each of which can in turn be solved using any established graphical or algebraic targeting methodology to determine the minimum requirement of respective resource. This article presents a rigorous mathematical proof of the decomposition algorithm, and then demonstrates its potential applications with case studies on carbon‐constrained energy sector planning, interplant water integration, and emergy‐based multisector fuel allocation. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2010
Kinetic and dynamic study of liquid–liquid extraction of copper in a HFMC: Experimentation, modeling, and simulation
Authors: Younas M. , Druon‐Bocquet S. , Sanchez J.
Published: October 2009

In this work, we present the dispersion‐free liquid–liquid extraction of copper from aqueous streams in a hollow fiber membrane contactor (HFMC). Copper has been transferred from aqueous solutions to heptane using LIX 84‐I (2‐hydroxy‐5‐nonylacetephenone oxime) as extracting agent. In a first step, batch experiments have been performed to identify the extraction kinetics and to measure the partition coefficient of copper aqueous‐organic phase system. Then, the continuous recycled‐base extraction process has been performed in a HFMC Liqui‐Cel® module. The module has been modeled from resistance in series concept to gain the exit concentrations, which are used to develop a dynamic model to calculate the exit concentration of copper from the output of storage tanks. The model has been validated with experimental data at various operating conditions. The integrated process model algorithm was scripted in MATLAB® 7.4 R (a). Simulations have been made for a range of different operating parameters to determine the optimum criterion conditions. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2010
Electrochemical performance and microstructure characterization of nickel yttrium‐stabilized zirconia anode
Authors: Liu Jingbo , Birss Viola , Hill Josephine
Published: October 2009

A nickel and yttrium‐stabilized zirconia (Ni‐YSZ) composite is one of the most commonly used anode materials in solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). One of the drawbacks of the Ni‐YSZ anode is its susceptibility to deactivation due to the formation of carbonaceous species when hydrocarbons are used as fuel supplies. We therefore initiated an electrochemical study of the influence of methane (CH4) on the performance of Ni‐YSZ anodes by examining the kinetics of the oxidation of CH4 and H2 over operating temperatures of 600–800°C. Anode performance deterioration was then correlated with the degree of carbonization observed on the anode using ex‐situ X‐ray powder diffraction and scanning electron microscopy techniques. Results showed that carbonaceous species led to a significant deactivation of Ni‐YSZ anode toward methane oxidation. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2010
Model predictive control with learning‐type set‐point: Application to artificial pancreatic β‐cell
Authors: Wang Youqing , Zisser Howard , Dassau Eyal , Jovanovič Lois , Doyle Francis J.
Published: October 2009

A novel combination of model predictive control (MPC) and iterative learning control (ILC), referred to learning‐type MPC (L‐MPC), is proposed for closed‐loop control in an artificial pancreatic β‐cell. The main motivation for L‐MPC is the repetitive nature of glucose‐meal‐insulin dynamics over a 24‐h period. L‐MPC learns from an individual's lifestyle, inducing the control performance to improve from day to day. The proposed method is first tested on the Adult Average subject presented in the UVa/Padova diabetes simulator. After 20 days, the blood glucose concentrations can be kept within 68–145 mg/dl when the meals are repetitive. L‐MPC can produce superior control performance compared with that achieved under MPC. In addition, L‐MPC is robust to random variations in meal sizes within ±75% of the nominal value or meal timings within ±60 min. Furthermore, the robustness of L‐MPC to subject variability is validated on Adults 1–10 in the UVa/Padova simulator. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2010
Solid–liquid equilibrium of substrates and products of the enzymatic synthesis of ampicillin
Authors: Santana Mônica , Ribeiro Marcelo P. A. , Leite Geisa A. , Giordano Raquel L. C. , Giordano Roberto C. , Mattedi Silvana
Published: October 2009

The solid–liquid equilibrium of precursors and products of the enzymatic synthesis of ampicillin (AMP) [6‐aminopencillanic acid (6‐APA) and D(−)phenylglycine (PG)] was investigated at different temperatures (283–298 K) and pHs (5.5–7.5). Solubility data were obtained using an analytical methodology. Equilibrium dissociation constants were experimentally measured at several temperatures for AMP, 6‐APA, PG, and D(−)phenylglycine methyl ester. A model based on the simplified perturbed hard sphere theory proposed by Khoshkbarchi and Vera (Ind Eng Chem Res. 1996;35:4319‐4327) was fitted against solubility data. The model could describe the water solubility behavior for AMP and PG as function of pH and temperature, but a bias was observed when fitting the model to the solubility of 6‐APA. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2010
Influence of transverse rotating magnetic field on enhancement of solid dissolution process
Authors: Rakoczy Rafał , Masiuk Stanisław
Published: October 2009

The main objective of this work is to study the effect of transverse rotating magnetic field (TRMF) on the enhancement of solid dissolution process in the novel type reactor (TRMFR). The application of magnetically driven fluidization (MDF with homogeneous and heterogeneous systems) on mass transfer process is presented. A study of the effect of ferromagnetic particles content on solid–liquid mass transfer has been made. The experimental investigations are provided for the explanation of the influence on the dissolution process of a solid body to surrounding its dilute solution in a novel type reactor with the ferromagnetic particles suspended. The mass transfer coefficient is calculated from a kinetic equation and correlated in the relationship including standard and magnetic dimensionless numbers. The overall enhancements due to TRMF and MDF were compared. Unique correlating relations were obtained to generalize the experimental database. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2010