Il ruolo svolto dall’attività lavorativa sull’ipertensione arteriosa

Science.gov (United States)

Barbini, N.; Gorini, G.; Ferrucci, L.; Biggeri, A.

2009-01-01

RIASSUNTO Introduzione I parametri di pressione arteriosa, sistolica (PAS) o diastolica (PAD) hanno costituito I’oggetto di numerosi studi, alcuni dei quali stabiliscono un’associazione tra I’aumnto di tali parametri e la mortalità, in particolare alle età medie. I fattori di rischio di ipertensione più frequentemente studiati sono il consumo di alcol, il fumo e I’origine etnica in riferimento sia alle differenze genetiche che nella condotta alimentare, mentre i fattori di origine professionale sono stati presi in considerazione più raramente e in maniera poco approfondita, inoltre sono state riferite notevoli differenze nelle pressioni arteriose medie di individui che svolgono professioni diverse. Sembra infatti che i “colletti blu” siano più a rischio dei “colletti bianchi”. Obiettivi Il nostro scopo è valutare se determinati rischi o vincoli connessi con l’attività professionale o determinati stili di vita rappresentano un fattore di rischio per l’ipertensione arteriosa in considerazioni dell’aumentare dell’età. Elementi specifici che rendano conto di questa relazione non sono stati ancora completamente chiariti e soprattutto i dati sulla popolazione italiana sono molto limitati. Metodi La metodologia di ricerca utilizzata è stata quella dell’indagine francese ESTEV (Derriennic, Touranchet, Volkoff) - VISAT (Marquie, Janson), studio epidemiologico longitudinale su oltre 23000 lavoratori attivata in Francia nel 1990 al fine di indagare gli effetti a lungo termine delle condizioni di lavoro, riferite all’intera vita professionale, sia sull’invecchiamento sia sulla salute dei lavoratori. Analoga indagine è stata avviata in Italia, nel 2000, in 6 Regioni, prendendo in esame i lavoratori dipendenti di diversi settori produttivi appartenenti a 5 coorti di età: da 32 a 52 anni con intervallo di 5 anni. Le rilevazioni sono state effettuate dai medici del lavoro di azienda attraverso 3 questionari: 1. sulle condizioni

Breve fenomenologia del lettore ai confini del nonsense (o Il lettore provocato

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Laura Lucia Rossi

2012-12-01

Full Text Available In questo articolo esaminiamo alcuni generi letterari che sono stati spesso accostati al nonsense letterario. In particolare prendiamo in considerazione il ruolo del lettore all’interno di questi testi e ne proponiamo una sorta di fenomenologia. Invitiamo, infine, a riflettere su come considerare la dimensione del lettore all’interno di un genere letterario possa condurre a risultati rilevanti circa la definizione del genere stesso.

IL MERAVIGLIOSO PRIMO ANNO DI VITA. THE WONDERFUL FIRST YEAR OF LIFE

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Ongari, Barbara

2013-12-01

Full Text Available Le immense potenzialità del primo anno di vita ed il loro essere a fondamento dello sviluppo della personalità vengono discusse qui in una prospettiva relazionale, evidenziando il significato fondamentale della qualità delle interazioni precoci, verbali e non verbali, tra il bambino ed i suoi caregiver. Viene sottolineato anche il ruolo-chiave delle emozioni e dei vissuti interpersonali nella costruzione dell’architettura della mente infantile. The extraordinary potentialities during the first year of life and the fact that they are at the basis of the development of personality are proposed here using a relational prospective. The fundamental significance connected to the quality of the precocious verbal and non–verbal interactions between infants and their caregiver is evidenced as well. The key-role of the interpersonal emotions and feelings inside the construction of the infants’ mind architecture is highlighted.

Il ruolo della robustezza strutturale nella impostazione ingegneristica della sicurezza antincendio

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Crosti, C.; Giuliani, Luisa; Gentili, F.

2012-01-01

contrastare il più possibile la diffusione dell’incendio stesso. Questa strategia si applica a tutti i livelli: fra un locale e l’altro all’interno di un piano, fra un piano e l’altro all’interno di un edificio, fra un edificio e l’altro all’interno di un isolato, fino alla scala urbana e finanche regionale...

Conversazioni con la sfinge il ruolo dei paradossi nelle rivoluzioni scientifiche

CERN Document Server

Klein, Etienne

1993-01-01

Niels Bohr rifiutava ogni idea troppo conservatrice con il lapidario giudizio "Non è abbastanza folle". La fisica moderna ha dimostrato l'inefficacia del buon senso per costruire teorie o comprendere particolari risultati sperimentali. In rottura con l'esperenzia comune, ha contrapposto l'inaudito all'abitudine, i concetti delicati agli archetipi classici, le ipotesi piu ardite alle apparenze rassicuranti.

IL RUOLO DELLA FORMAZIONE NELLA PROMOZIONE DELLA LINGUA E DELLA CULTURA ITALIANA. INTERVISTA AL PROFESSOR ROBERTO GRECI, PRESIDE DELLA FACOLTÀ DI LETTERE E FILOSOFIA DELL’UNIVERSITÀ DI PARMA

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Valentina Zenoni

2011-07-01

Full Text Available La formazione rappresenta uno strumento basilare nella promozione della lingua e della cultura italiana. L’argomento è articolato e complesso perché abbraccia diverse questioni. Da un lato va sostenuto l’utilizzo di mezzi adeguati, come quello telematico, che favoriscono e facilitano la diffusione all’estero. Dall’altro la proposta didattica di università e scuole deve essere riorganizzata alla luce delle nuove esigenze formative. Il ruolo degli atenei italiani potrebbe diventare più incisivo se si adeguassero maggiormente agli standard esteri, in modo da favorire la circolazione di studenti anche verso e non soltanto dall’Italia. Per quanto riguarda, invece, il tipo di formazione da sostenere, va riqualificata quella umanistica e tradizionale, non perché rappresenti la cultura nella sua totalità ma perché costituisce un patrimonio che caratterizza il nostro paese e non deve andare perso. Abbiamo parlato di queste tematiche con il Professor Roberto Greci, Preside della Facoltà di Lettere e Filosofia dell’Università di Parma e Presidente del Consiglio scientifico e didattico del Consorzio Interuniversitario ICoN, Italian Culture On the Net.     The role of training in the promotion of Italian language and culture. An interview with Professor Roberto Greci, Dean of the Literature and Philosophy Faculty at the University of Parma   Training represents a basic tool in promoting Italian language and culture.  The topic is complex because it encompasses diverse issues.  On the one hand appropriate means are needed, like telematic resources, which encourage and facilitate spreading abroad.  On the other, university and school courses need to be reorganized in light of the new training needs.  The role of Italian universities could to be stronger if they met foreign standards, to promote the circulation of students towards and not just away from Italy.  As far as regards the type of training to be undertaken, the humanistic

Il Salento che abbiamo attraversato: Rina Durante e Bruno Brancher, il racconto di due vite diverse sulle strade di terra d'Otranto

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Massimo Melillo

2015-07-01

Full Text Available Rina Durante ha rappresentato il meglio della cultura meridionale, ne ha raccolto l’eredità e ne è stata tra le interpreti più acute. Abbiamo avuto l’onore della sua amicizia fraterna e solidale, conosciuto l’azzardo e la radicalità delle sue scelte di vita, la sua dolce timidezza e l’ardita padronanza e consapevolezza del suo ruolo: anni di discussioni, di confronto, di legame cementato da infuocati innamoramenti intellettuali per uno scrittore, un poeta, un regista, di accese ironie sui nostri caratteri, di scontri politici e furibondi litigi finiti in un abbraccio. Anche per Bruno Brancher, milanese di tutti e di nessuno, il ricordo si fa memoria per le sue mille improvvise e imprevedibili incursioni in terra salentina. Non era un uomo facile, anche se aveva dalla sua parte il puntiglio dell’innocenza tipica del ladro gentiluomo. Portava leggero il fardello di due vite in una: la prima segnata da una marginalità, fattasi a volte precariamente lussuosa con i proventi di furti e disarmanti rapine; l’altra con la faccia del redento, che con la scoperta della scrittura diventa cosciente di sé.

Il disavanzo pubblico degli stati Uniti, il Dollaro e l'Europa. (U.S. deficits, the dollar and Europe

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O. BLANCHARD

2013-12-01

Full Text Available L'articolo valuta alcune delle controversie relative al ruolo dei deficit nel recupero , il rapporto tra deficit e tassi di interesse , i costi ei benefici di un dollaro forte degli Stati Uniti , e, infine, la fattibilità e opportunità di miglioramento, di assicurare o accelerare il recupero dell'Europa attraverso mosse di politica attiva . This paper reviews and assesses some of the controversies related to the role of deficits in the recovery, the relation between deficits and interest rates, costs and benefits of a strong US dollar, and finally the feasibility and desirability of enhancing, assuring or accelerating Europe’s recovery through active policy moves. The authors first provide an assessment of the current situation before focusing on the characteristics of a fiscal policy-led recovery. They then turn to the appreciation of the dollar before looking at the policy options open to Europe, arguing that a temporary and modulated fiscal expansion still appears both desirable and feasible.JEL: H62, E43, E62

Rappresentare il progetto di interaction Design

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Michele Zannoni

2013-03-01

Full Text Available ItQuesto saggio indaga le conseguenze che, nel mutato contesto del progetto contemporaneo del design, implica la forte convergenza della disciplina del progetto nei temi legati all'interaction design. L'evidenza di questo mutamento mette in luce come nell'iter progettuale il ruolo centrico del disegno e della rappresentazione è messo in crisi da una trasformazione dei contenuti del progetto. Il rapporto tra il progetto dell'interfaccia e il product design, la dematerializzazione dei feedback tattili e visivi, la sempre più diffusa digitalizzazione delle superfici di interazione degli oggetti, mostrano come il design del prodotto non è immune alla trasformazione che ha cambiato i media della comunicazione negli ultimi dieci anni e gli strumenti della rappresentazione si devono adeguare per poter prefigurare una sempre maggior complessità del percorso progettuale.EnIn the changing context of contemporary design, this essay explores the consequences entailed by the significant convergence of the discipline of design towards the themes relative to action design. The evidence of this change highlights how the central role of drawing and representation in the design process is challenged by the transformation in the contents of design. The relationship between the design of the interface and product design, the dematerialization of tactile and visual feedback, the increasingly widespread digitalization of the interaction surfaces of objects, prove that product design is not immune to the transformation that has changed communication media over the past ten years and the tools of representation must adapt to maintain the capacity to prefigure the growing complexity of the design process.

Negare l'acqua. La strategia dello Stato islamico per il controllo delle risorse idriche e il diritto all’acqua delle donne nel Vicino Oriente

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Desirée A.L. Quagliarotti

2016-04-01

Full Text Available In un contesto di ineguale distribuzione delle risorse idriche, di crescita demografica e di sviluppo economico, l’acqua assume sempre più il ruolo divariabile strategica in grado di alterare gli equilibri geopolitici soprattutto in quelle aree in cui le fonti idriche sono condivise tra più paesi. Obiettivo dell’articolo è quello di analizzare il contenzioso idrico del bacino del Tigri e dell’Eufrate dove la storica disputa per la gestione e l’accaparramento delle acque condivise tra Turchia, Siria e Iraq è acuita dall’effetto del cambiamento climatico e dall’ingresso di nuovi attori nel controllo della risorsa. L’aumento della frequenza e dell’intensità dei periodi di siccità amplifica il gap tra domanda e offerta idrica mentre il nuovo ordine idropolitico disegnato dall’espansione dello Stato Islamico, limita l’accesso alla risorsa da parte delle fasce più deboli delle popolazioni. Particolarmente penalizzate sono le donne a cui viene quotidianamente affidato l’arduo compito di gestire le scarse risorse idriche e di allocarle tra i diversi usi. Il controllo da parte dello Stato islamico delle grandi dighe lungo il corso dei due fiumi, l’utilizzo dell’acqua come strumento di pressione e il conseguente deterioramento qualitativo e quantitativo della risorsa, non solo aumentano la quantità di lavoro che le donne devono impiegare per la raccolta e la distribuzione dell’acqua ma minacciano la sicurezza alimentare e la salute loro e delle loro famiglie.

Il processo Andreotti. Il confine labile fra la partecipazione e il concorso esterno nei reati associativi

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Paolo Intoccia

2017-11-01

Full Text Available Prendendo in esame un procedimento penale d’eccezione nel presente elaborato ci si propone di condurre uno studio sul diritto penale ‘in azione’ allo scopo di verificare i meccanismi di applicazione dei reati di associazione per delinquere ‘semplice’ (a. 416 c.p. e di tipo mafioso (a. 416 bis c.p.. La seguente analisi ricostruisce, infatti, l’intensa trafila giudiziaria che ha visto protagonista Giulio Andreotti – dal 4 marzo 1993 chiamato a rispondere, prima a titolo di concorrente esterno e successivamente in qualità di partecipe, dei due reati associativi sopra richiamati a fronte di un apparato accusatorio qualitativamente complesso e temporalmente imponente. Sarà in tal modo possibile verificare quanto possa essere labile, specie ove si discuta della condotta di fiancheggiamento di un soggetto politico ad un sodalizio di tipo mafioso (qui Cosa Nostra, il confine tra la fenomenologia partecipativa (nel ruolo di intraneus all’associazione e quella concorsuale eventuale (nel ruolo di cd. concorrente esterno nei delitti associativi di cui agli artt. 416 e 416 bis c.p. Parole chiave: Andreotti, Cosa Nostra, zona grigia, reati associativi, mala informazione   By examining an exceptional criminal proceeding in this paper we propose to conduct a study on criminal law ‘in action’ in order to verify the mechanisms of application of two associative offenses (‘simple’ criminal conspiracy and mafia-type criminal conspiracy. As a matter of fact the analysis reconstructs the intense trial about Giulio Andreotti’s working with Cosa Nostra – Andreotti, starting from March 4 1993, is accused of being at first an external competitor and subsequently a participant of Cosa Nostra in connection with a qualitatively complex accusatory apparatus. As a result of this analysis we come to ascertain how fleeting the boundary between the role of partecipant and external competitor in a criminal conspiracy can be, especially in case of

Discorso globale e contesti locali. Quale futuro per il programma di riforma agraria in Ruanda?

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Johan Pottier

2013-07-01

Full Text Available La maggior parte degli sforzi per trasformare l’economia sub-sahariana negli anni Ottanta e Novanta faceva seguito ai cosiddetti “accordi di Washington”; questi sforzi avevano l’obiettivo di ridimensionare il ruolo dello Stato e liberalizzare i prezzi agricoli. La strategia prescritta funzionò per alcuni, ma non per la maggioranza dei produttori agricoli; all’inizio del XXI secolo è necessario, ancora una volta, un “momento di ripensamento”. I responsabili delle politiche agricole suggeriscono ora che,per indurre un cambiamento efficace, il nuovo modo di pensare deve fare i conti con modelli inappropriati di coltivazione, cogliere le dimensioni sociali e politiche dei cambiamenti indotti dalle moderne tecniche di coltivazione e venire a patti con i locali modi di comprensione dei contesti complessi (Scoones, Devereux, Haddad 2005, p. 3.

Il nuovo ortofotopiano del Comune di Venezia nell’Infrastruttura dei dati Territoriali di Base (ITB

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Paolo Barbieri

2006-06-01

Full Text Available Il Comune di Venezia, nell’ambito delle attività per lo sviluppo del proprio Sistema Informativo Territoriale, ha messo a punto e avviato a realizzazione uno specifico progetto per la costruzione di un’Infrastruttura di dati Territoriali di Base (ITB. Il progetto, che ha visto il coinvolgimento dei vari Uffici comunali interessati, dellaRegione del Veneto e dell’Agenzia del Territorio, si è sviluppato a partire dal 2002 con gli studi di fattibilità, cui è seguita nel 2003 la fase della progettazione esecutiva e quindi, a partire dal 2004, dell’attuazione. Attualmente le componenti dell’infrastruttura sono state realizzate e si sta procedendo alla definizione di una piattaforma tecnologica per la gestione e l’utilizzo della ITB, basata su di un Geo-DBMS e meccanismi di interoperabilità, con l’obiettivo di interfacciare le diverse applicazioni gestionali presenti in Comune. Nel presente articolo si intende presentare il modello concettuale di riferimento ed evidenziare, in particolare, il ruolo in esso svolto dalle immagini ortofotografiche.

Nascita e destino della soggettività. Dai ruoli professionali ai processi di cura, attraverso una lettura di "Quel che resta del giorno" di Kazuo Ishiguro

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Gabriele Profita

2017-07-01

Full Text Available Questa riflessione affronta un tema assai rilevante per le professioni di cura, con uno sguardo particolare alla psicoterapia. Per chiarire il ruolo della soggettività e della nascita e maturazione di un ruolo professionale riporterò un’analisi di un testo letterario attraverso il quale sarà più agevole scoprire come si forma l’identità di un ruolo professionale e come si avvia alla sua maturazione e alla sua codificazione. In particolare quali sono i rischi legati ad una sua rigida codificazione rivolta alla sua normatività tecnica? Mi propongo di tracciare un confronto con alcune forme di costruzione della soggettività che nel corso dei secoli hanno fondato il modello dell’uomo occidentale nelle sue articolazioni professionali.

Attivitá fisica extra-scolastica negli adolescenti: il ruolo dello stato socio-economico delle famiglie

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G. Capelli

2003-05-01

Full Text Available

Obiettivi: l’associazione fra stato socio-economico (SES ed attività fisica è poco indagata. Obiettivo del presente studio è quello di valutare la relazione tra attività fisica extra-scolastica di adolescenti scolarizzati e lo SES della famiglia di provenienza.

Metodi: l’indagine ha previsto la somministrazione nel corso dell’anno scolastico 2002-2003 di un apposito questionario anonimo autocompilato, già validato in uno studio pilota, ad un campione di studenti delle scuole medie inferiori del Lazio (province di Roma, Frosinone e Latina.

Risultati: hanno partecipato allo studio 1486 studenti di cui 756 maschi (50.9% e 730 femmine (49.1%. L’età dei partecipanti varia fra gli 11 ed i 15 anni (età mediana 12 anni. Il 72.7% degli studenti dichiara di svolgere attività fisica al di fuori della scuola. Il livello di istruzione dei genitori e la loro attività lavorativa sembrano avere un peso notevole sui determinanti dell’attività fisica negli studenti. Infatti, svolgono prevalentemente attività fisica extra-scolastica i figli di genitori manager/libero professionisti (OR = 3.29 e con un elevato livello educativo (OR = 10.38 per i figli di genitori laureati.

Conclusioni: i risultati confermano quanto la situazione socio-economica delle famiglie sia in netta relazione con l’attività fisico-sportiva dei giovani. Tali risultati potranno essere utili per gli operatori scolastici e gli amministratori nell’ispirare e realizzare azioni volte a diminuire il divario esistente fra i giovani che hanno le possibilità economiche e svolgono attività sportiva extra-scolastica e quelli che, invece, appartenendo a famiglie svantaggiate, hanno minore accesso a tali attività.

[Role of vitamin D in female reproduction].

Science.gov (United States)

DE Leo, Vincenzo; Cappelli, Valentina; Morgante, Giuseppe; DI Sabatino, Alessandra

2017-11-10

La vit. D, o calcitriolo, è stata identificata inizialmente nei primi anni '20 ed ha un ruolo chiave nella regolazione del metabolismo osseo, nell'omeostasi del calcio e del fosforo e nel promuovere la mineralizzazione ossea. Le azioni della vit. D sono mediante tramite un recettore nucleare (VDR), che è espresso in numerosi organi come l'intestino, l'osso e il rene, ma anche nelle gonadi, nel seno, nel pancreas, nel sistema cardiovascolare, nel cervello (microglia) e nelle cellule del sistema immunitario. In tutti questi tessuti bersaglio non classici la 1,25(OH)2D sembra avere un ruolo nel ridurre il rischio di alcune malattie croniche (incluso il cancro, le infezioni, le patologie autoimmuni e cardiache) attraverso la modulazione della crescita cellulare, un'azione neuromuscolare, immunitaria e antiinfiammatoria. Il VDR agisce soprattutto attraverso la regolazione dell'espressione di quei geni i cui promotori contengono specifiche sequenza DNA note come vitamin D response elements (VDRE). La vit. D ha un ruolo chiave sia nella fisiologia della riproduzione che nello sviluppo di varie patologie ginecologiche come la PCOS, l'endometriosi, la fibromatosi e anche di tipo ostetrico (pre-eclampsia, diabete gestazionale) e negli ultimi tempi sta assumendo un ruolo importante nelle tecniche di fecondazione in vitro.

The role of woman in the criminal organization: > - Le rôle de la femme dans l’organisation criminelle : > - Il ruolo della donna nell’organizzazione criminale: >

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Pasculli A.

2009-08-01

Full Text Available This study points out the presence of women in the criminal organizations. Where is a woman’s place in the mafia or similar crimes? The present research analyses the evolution in the role of women from end of 80’s till the last judgements by Italian Courts, where in the perpetrator, the co-perpetrator was for the first time found to be a woman.The essay on women and the local mafia seek to answer different questions from a wide range of academic disciplines and trace the portrait of women tied to organized crime in Italy and especially in Bari, where there are exclusive criminal organizations involving women. This evolution pulls back the code of silence and shines a light on the dark image of women entangled in organized crime, as a mediator, co-perpetrator, boss at the top of organised criminal group. The surprising first hand account of mafia women in Bari, reveal women in power, also in relation to the art. 416 bis of Italian criminal code. Cette étude aborde le sujet du rôle de la femme dans les organisations criminelles mafieuses d'un point de vue substantialiste. À partir du rôle traditionnel de gardienne du code culturel mafieux, la participation féminine évolue vers l’engagement direct dans certaines activités criminelles (par exemple : trafic de drogue, intermédiation financière ; les femmes deviennent aussi les véritables représentantes des chefs en cavale ou placés en détention.L’article examine les cas des femmes à la tête des organisations criminelles dès le début des années 80, avec une attention particulière à l'égard des jugements soulignant la dangerosité de ces femmes (voir l'art. n°416 bis du Code pénal italien.Lo studio affronta da un punto di vista sostanzialista il ruolo della donna all'interno delle organizzazioni criminali di stampo mafioso. Partendo dalla funzione tradizionale di custode del codice culturale mafioso, la partecipazione femminile evolve nella moderna tipizzazione di

La percezione del ruolo materno in madri detenute/La perception du rôle maternel chez les mères détenues/The Perception Incarcerated Mothers' Maternal role

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Agostini Francesca

2011-12-01

Full Text Available Nel panorama nazionale ed internazionale non si discute ancora abbastanza della maternità vissuta in carcere, tuttavialargamente diffusa e quindi tema che merita opportuni approfondimenti al fine di promuovere la ricerca di strategie chegarantiscano il diritto della donna detenuta ad essere madre e il diritto dei figli a non essere privati di questo legame.Questo studio esplorativo, svolto presso la Casa Circondariale “Dozza” di Bologna, nella sezione femminile, ha avutocome obiettivo quello di indagare le caratteristiche della percezione del ruolo materno in donne detenute che non vivonocon il proprio figlio. Attraverso le interviste e l’uso di strumenti standardizzati, si è approfondito il tipo di maternitàesperita dalle donne e le difficoltà personali che la lontananza e l’ambiente frappongono alla possibilità di svolgereadeguatamente il proprio ruolo genitoriale. Pur essendo piccolo il campione, le indagini qualitative hanno consentito dievidenziare un quadro di consistente sofferenza, con utilizzo di meccanismi difensivi quali processi di idealizzazionedell’esperienza di maternità e di razionalizzazione.RésuméDans le panorama national et international, on ne discute pas encore assez de la maternité vécue en prison. Toutefois,celle-ci est largement répandue. Partant, il s’agit d’un thème qui mérite d’être approfondi afin de promouvoir larecherche de stratégies qui garantissent le droit de la femme détenue à être mère et le droit des enfants à ne pas êtreprivés de ce lien.Cette étude - réalisée dans le quartier pour femmes de la maison d’arrêt "Dozza" de Bologne - a eu comme objectifd’analyser les caractéristiques de la perception du rôle maternel chez les femmes détenues qui ne vivent pas avec leurspropres enfants. À travers les entretiens et l'usage d'instruments standardisés, nous avons approfondi le type dematernité vécue par ces femmes et les difficultés personnelles que l�

IMPARARE IN RUOLO: UN’ESPERIENZA DI PROCESS DRAMA PER L’INSEGNAMENTO DELL’ITALIANO AGLI STUDENTI DEL PROGETTO STRANIMEDIA

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Alessandra Pezza

2011-07-01

Full Text Available L’articolo tratta di come, all’interno della metodologia process drama applicata all’insegnamento delle lingue straniere, l’immedesimazione nel ruolo drammatico influenzi la produzione linguistica degli studenti. Ad una prima parte teorica in cui il process drama  viene posto a confronto con i più tradizionali esercizi di role play, utilizzati da nell’approccio comunicativo segue una parte in cui si analizza un ciclo di lezioni condotte in base alla metodologia process drama, svoltosi all’Università degli Studi di Milano con una classe di studenti di madrelingua cinese nel mese di giugno 2010. L’analisi dell’esperienza mostra come le attività proposte secondo questa metodologia abbiano spinto gli studenti, durante la lezione, ad immedesimarsi ciascuno in un particolare personaggio e come questo abbia influenzato il coinvolgimento affettivo e comunicativo degli studenti, migliorandone la produzione linguistica e fungendo da stimolo a valorizzare le loro conoscenze pregresse.     Learning according to roles: a process drama exerience for the teaching of italian to students in the stranimedia project   This article discusses how, within the process drama methodology applied to foreign language teaching, the identification through the dramatic role influences the linguistic production of students.  After the first theoretical part where process drama is compared to more traditional roleplay activities used in the communicative approach, there is a second part which analyzes a cycle of lessons conduced using process drama, carried out at the University degli Studi di Milano with a class of Chinese mothertongue students in June 2010. The analysis of the experience shows how the activities proposed uing this method pushed the students to identify with their characters and this in turn influenced the emotional and communicative involvement of the students, improving their linguistic production and acting as a stimulus for giving

La città sotterranea e il suo ruolo nella mobilità urbana

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Giuseppe Mazzeo

2008-12-01

Full Text Available La città sotterranea è un elemento fondamentale nella struttura urbana. Soprattutto nelle grandi città essa assume connotazioni rilevanti nella pianificazione urbana in considerazione del fatto che rappresenta una risorsa e il suo impiego può incidere significativamente sull’efficienza del sistema urbano. Alcune città, a causa soprattutto della rigidità del clima, hanno progettato città sotterranee di grande complessità funzionale; esempi significativi sono Montreal, Toronto e altre città del Nord America. In Europa occidentale le realizzazioni associabili al concetto di città sotterranea sono più limitate e sono relative soprattutto alla realizzazione di infrastrutture per la mobilità urbana, come le reti metropolitane, i passanti ferroviari, i tunnel stradali e i parcheggi sotterranei. La funzione primaria di questi spazi è la riduzione e lo spostamento dalla superficie di quote di traffico e la trasformazione di ampie parti della città in aree verdi o in aree a maggiore qualità ambientale. In ogni modo è possibile sostenere che l’uso degli spazi sotterranei è ormai entrato a far parte della vita delle città moderne. L’articolo analizza alcuni dei fattori principali nella costruzione di questi spazi urbani; i costi e i benefici dell’uso di spazi sotterranei sono messi in relazione con gli aspetti psicologici e con la costruzione di modelli per la previsione dei percorsi degli utenti. La seconda parte dell’articolo mostra alcuni casi studio evidenziando le diverse necessità che hanno spinto e hanno guidato verso la scelta degli spazi sotterranei; una analisi più dettagliata è svolta sul caso di Montreal, che può essere considerato archetipo della citta sotterranea.

Il Gambling Compulsivo: rilevanza epidemiologica

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A. Coacci

2003-05-01

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Introduzione: il gioco d’azzardo ha profonde radici nella storia e nella cultura di ogni popolo. Si stima che circa l’80% della popolazione adulta nel nostro Paese giochi d’azzardo. Esso, pur rappresentando per la maggior parte di queste persone solo un innocuo passatempo, si trasforma talora in una vera e propria malattia (gambling compulsivo, con comportamenti che denotano forme estreme di rischio, sino a forme che portano alla distruzione della famiglia e persino della propria vita.

Si tratta un disturbo poco conosciuto e spesso non diagnosticato. Infatti, benché sia largamente diffuso e comporti rilevanti costi umani e sociali, il gambling compulsivo solo di recente è stato incluso nelle classificazioni diagnostiche internazionali.

Obiettivi: valutare l’impatto epidemiologico del gambling compulsivo (gioco d’azzardo patologico in una ASL/provincia.

Materiali e metodi: è stato inviato un questionario ai 190 Medici di Medicina Generale della provincia di Grosseto (ASL 8, per raccogliere informazioni su: sistema di cura, numero di soggetti che si sono rivolti al proprio medico di famiglia per tale problema, eventuale coesistenza di problemi e comportamenti di dipendenza e di abuso (alcool, psicofarmaci, droghe illegali, ecc.

Risultati: sono pervenuti 127 (pari al 66,8% questionari compilati. L’elaborazione dei dati è tuttora in corso.

Conclusioni: dai risultati preliminari sembra emergere che il numero di persone che chiede aiuto al medico e al SSN, differentemente da quanto accade per i tossicodipendenti, è molto limitato e, quindi, intuitivamente poco indicativo della massa di soggetti realmente coinvolti dalla problematica studiata. Si discute del ruolo nella promozione della salute potenzialmente svolto dai Medici di Medicina Generale. Per quanto la tecnica di rilevazione appaia relativamente poco sensibile

“Frate sole” e il fotovoltaico. Il ruolo della parrocchia e la tutela dell’ambiente tra normativa statale e Magistero della Chiesa cattolica

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Angela Patrizia Tavani

2011-11-01

Full Text Available SOMMARIO: 1. Premessa – 2. L’ente religioso imprenditore – 3. Rinnovata centralità di “frate sole” nel III millennio: le parrocchie e il fotovoltaico – 4. Il Magistero della Chiesa cattolica in tema di salvaguardia dell’ambiente – 5. Considerazioni conclusive. ABSTRACT: The establishment of a social enterprise for the production and sale of electricity through the creation of a photovoltaic system by imposing some parishes of Mantua shows that there is no conflict between the specific nature of ecclesiastical entity and the exercise by this socially useful economic activity, because the economic activity in order to provide the capital resources required to achieve the purpose of religion or belief, does not change the nature of ecclesiastical entity, because it does not absorb or blur the religious or of worship but rather reinforces the essence, as related and instrumental to this The invitation to promote renewable energy to protect the environment, has been the subject of interventions at various levels by both the Italian state and by the European Community, also Magisterium of the Catholic Church has often called for a real ecological conversion and an ecumenical commitment to that effect Associated Parishes are an example of civil economy, characterized by human sociality and reciprocity, as opposed to a utilitarian vision of the market based on the logic of exchange of equivalents.

L'informazione per l'efficienza e la trasparenza del mercato immobiliare: l'esperienza italiana

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Gianni Guerrieri

2011-12-01

Full Text Available Il tema affrontato concerne il ruolo dell’informazione economica nell’ambito dei mercati immobiliari. Si parte dai riferimenti della letteratura economica sulla teoria dell’informazione per individuare le informazioni economiche rilevanti per monitorare e analizzare il mercato immobiliare, sia dal punto di vista macroeconomico sia da quello microeconomico. In entrambi gli ambiti non è sufficiente soltanto l’informazione sul prezzo, ma su numerose altre variabili. Sull’importanza dell’informazione economica è utile l’indicatore della trasparenza dei mercati immobiliari elaborato da Jones Lang Lasalle costruito anche sulla base di una valutazione sulla qualità e quantità di informazione economica disponibile sugli oggetti scambiati sui fenomeni che caratterizzano il mercato immobiliare. Si analizza infine lo stato dell’informazione in Italia sul mercato immobiliare ed il ruolo e l’offerta informativa istituzionale resa dall’Osservatorio del mercato immobiliare dell’Agenzia del Territorio.

BetOnMath azzardo e matematica a scuola

CERN Document Server

Andrà, Chiara; Verani, Marco

2016-01-01

Il libro ha origine dall'attività svolta durante il progetto "BetOnMath", un'esperienza di Matematica Civile finalizzata alla prevenzione dell'abuso di gioco d'azzardo tra gli studenti della scuola secondaria di secondo grado attraverso un insegnamento innovativo della matematica. In particolare, durante il progetto gli autori del libro hanno sviluppato un percorso didattico modulare sulla matematica del gioco d'azzardo che gli insegnanti di matematica delle scuole secondarie possono utilizzare sia per introdurre gli strumenti di base del calcolo delle probabilità sia per sensibilizzare sui rischi legati al gioco d'azzardo. Il libro descrive i pilastri metodologici e concettuali che hanno guidato la concezione e dato forma al percorso didattico, ovvero la centralità del ruolo dell'insegnante, l'uso dei simulatori di gioco, l'importanza delle attività di gruppo e il ruolo delle emozioni nell'affrontare e comprendere nuovi concetti matematici. Nel libro, ciascuno di questi pilastri è trattato sia mediante ...

Angelberga: il monastero di San Sisto di Piacenza e il corso del fiume Po Angelberga: the monastery of St. Sisto of Piacenza and the course of Po river

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Roberta Cimino

2012-10-01

Full Text Available Il contributo analizza il dotario of Angelberga (ca. 831-891, moglie dell’imperatore Ludovico II. Angelberga rivestì un importante ruolo politico sia durante il suo matrimonio, sia dopo la morte del marito, e riuscì inoltre a costruire un impressionante patrimonio. Angelberga acquisì infatti un grande numero di beni fondiari, in parte tramite donazioni del consorte e in parte grazie ad acquisizioni personali. Nell’877 l’imperatrice assegnò il suo patrimonio al monastero di San Sisto, da lei fondato a Piacenza. Il contributo esamina in dettaglio l’ubicazione dei beni di Angelberga, dimostrando che gran parte di tali beni era situata in prossimità del corso del fiume Po: tale collocazione consentiva il controllo delle principali vie di comunicazione del regno d’Italia. Inoltre le proprietà di Angelberga si trovavano per lo più in aree controllate dai Supponidi, la potente famiglia di origine dell’imperatrice. Il saggio conclude che la costruzione del patrimonio di Angelberga, e del monastero che ne derivò, dimostra una convergenza di interessi economici e politici tra il potere regio e le aristocrazie locali rappresentate dalla potente famiglia d’origine dell’imperatrice.

This study analyzes the dower of Angelberga (ca. 831-891, wife of emperor Louis II. Angelberga played a significant political role during her marriage and after her husband’s death; moreover she accumulated an impressive patrimony. Angelberga gathered a great number of landed properties, partly through donations from her husband and partly thanks to personal acquisitions. In 877 the empress left her wealth to the monastery of St. Sisto, which she had founded in Piacenza. This article offers a detailed analysis of the location of Angelberga’s properties, showing that most of these properties were situated in the proximity of the Po river: this location allowed for the control of the main communication routes of the Italic Kingdom. Moreover

Il ruolo di El Escorial, V.III.6 e dei suoi discendenti nella tradizione manoscritta del Lucullus

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Corinna Senore

2017-05-01

Full Text Available L’articolo riguarda un gruppo di sette codici che tramanda il testo del Lucullus di Cicerone e che appartiene al ramo della tradizione discendente dal manoscritto Wien, Österreichische Nationalbibliothek 189. I sette manoscritti costituiscono uno stadio della tradizione caratterizzato dalla presenza di tre lacune testuali. Sulla base di alcuni elementi paleografici e della presenza di una glossa riportata a margine del testo di uno di essi, El Escorial, V.III.6 (Scor4, e inglobata all’interno del testo degli altri sei, è possibile individuare in Scor4 il capostipite di questo gruppo della tradizione. Lo studio si occupa inoltre di fare chiarezza sui rapporti che intercorrono tra i sei discendenti di Scor4. The article focuses on a group of seven codices which carry the text of Cicero’s Lucullus. This group belongs to the branch of the tradition descending from the manuscript Wien, Österreichische Nationalbibliothek 189. The seven manuscripts represent a step of the tradition marked by the presence of some textual lacunas. I start from some paleographic elements and from the presence of a gloss on text’s margin of one of them, El Escorial, V.III.6 (Scor4. The gloss has been then incorporated in the text of the other six manuscripts and I assume that Scor4 is the founder of this group of tradition. Furthermore, this article aims to clarify the relations between the six descendants of Scor4.

Il ruolo degli arbëreshë nella messa a punto del modello albanese di rapporti tra le comunità religiose e lo Stato

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Giovanni Cimbalo

2014-05-01

Full Text Available Il contributo, sottoposto a valutazione, riproduce il testo della Comunicazione presentata alla Konferencë Shkencore Ndërkombëtare Albanologjike, Një rilindje para Rilindjes (Gjirokastër, 22 maj 2013 con il titolo albanese Roli i arbëreschë në zhvillimin e modelit shqiptar të marrëdhënieve ndërmjet bashkësive fetare dhe shtetit, ed è destinata alla pubblicazione negli Atti.SOMMARIO: 1. Caratteristiche dell’insediamento delle popolazioni arbëreshë in Italia - 2. Il contributo del pluralismo religioso nella fondazione dello Stato albanese - 3. L’uso degli arbëreshë per l’espansione della Chiesa cattolica a Oriente: un progetto abortito - 4. Considerazioni conclusive.

“Preposterous thicks and thins”: i libri ideali di William Morris fra intermedialità e teoria sociale

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Paola Spinozzi

2015-12-01

Full Text Available Fra le molteplici espressioni dell’osmosi fra arte verbale e visiva perseguita da William Morris, la stampa e la tipografia rivestono un ruolo peculiare. Il libro ideale di Morris – oggetto materiale e object d’art – solleva questioni cardinali che riguardano l’interdipendenza fra parola e immagine, i nessi fra forma e contenuto, il ruolo dell’arte nella società, le interazioni fra estetica e politica. Le ragioni che indussero Morris a criticare Giambattista Bodoni sono state tralasciate fino ad ora e richiedono una disamina, perché rivelano l’intersecarsi di orientamenti estetici ed ideologici nell’evoluzione della tipografia e dell’editoria fra la fine dell’Ottocento e gli inizi del Novecento.

Monika Fludernik, Verso una narratologia ‘naturale’

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Filippo Pennacchio

2013-06-01

La traduzione del saggio è fatta precedere da un’introduzione in cui viene presentato, più in generale, il pensiero di Monika Fludernik, e insieme valutato il suo ruolo nell’ambito del dibattito teorico sviluppatosi in seno alla comunità scientifica a partire dai primi anni Duemila.

Itinerari Musicali con la Wiild

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Elisabetta Nanni

2013-03-01

Full Text Available La Wiild, acronimo di Wiimote Lavagna Digitale, è uno strumento didattico che utilizza il telecomando della Wii, il famoso gioco della Nintendo, insieme a un software libero, rendendolo così estremamente versatile. Non vincolato a software proprietario, il suo utilizzo è legato alla capacità dell’insegnante di ripartire dalla didattica, dalle risorse selezionate e dall’epistemologia di ogni singola disciplina, trovando così nel proprio contesto un ruolo per le tecnologie. Il contributo presenta ipotesi di lavoro per l’educazione musicale nella scuola secondaria di primo grado che si sviluppano sia attraverso lo studio del rapporto suono/segno con affinità pittoriche e successiva codificazione grafica, sia attraverso un’attività di laboratorio in cui co-costruire percorsi storico-musicali. La Wiild diventerà davvero utile ed efficace nel momento in cui, affiancando le risorse selezionate dal docente, verrà utilizzata senza essere notata, giocando un ruolo di strumento tecnologico «normale e trasparente».

L'Europa accelera sul progetto Grid

CERN Document Server

2003-01-01

"Il consorzio pan-europeo Egee sta pilotando a Bruxelles la complessa operazione che dotera' l'Europa di un mercato comune delle risorse di calcolo sulla base del modello Grid (griglia di calcolo, trasporto e distribuzione di dati)" (1 page).

Triumphing over the Enemy. References to the Turks as Part of Andrea, Giannettino and Giovanni Andrea Doria’s Artistic Patronage and Public Image

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Laura Stagno

2017-12-01

Andrea Doria (1466-1560 e in seguito il suo erede, Giovanni Andrea I (1550-1606, quali “generali del mare” per la corona spagnola, ebbero un ruolo cruciale nella strategia a lungo termine di lotta contro il nemico turco e di contenimento del suo potere. Ariosto, nel suo Orlando Furioso, celebrò Andrea come nuovo e più glorioso Pompeo, in grado di liberare il mare dai corsari ottomani, e numerosi altri testi coevi ne esaltarono le gesta contro il Turco. Scopo dell’articolo è quello di indagare in che modo tale ruolo si sia tradotto in termini di rappresentazione figurativa, in riferimento al  grande ammiraglio, ma anche al suo luogotente ed erede designato, Giannettino (ucciso nel corso della congiura dei Fieschi, nel 1547 e del  figlio di questi, Giovanni Andrea, che appunto in ragione della morte prematura del padre succedette al grande ammiraglio. Tra le commissioni artistiche dei Doria si riscontrano riferimenti al nemico turco in statue e placchette, nell’articolata serie di arazzi dedicati alla battaglia di Lepanto, ma anche nella complessa raffigurazione allegorica del passaggio del potere dal vecchio principe al giovane erede. Il tipo di approccio al tema risulta però diverso: mediato da riferimenti classici e simbolici nel caso di Andrea, più diretto in quello del successore. In parallelo al patronage dei due Doria ha un ruolo di grande importanza la committenza della Repubblica genovese,  alla quale si lega la prima iconografia che, nella statua colossale “all’antica” eseguita da Montorsoli (1539, presenta in modo esplicito il trionfo di Andrea sugli Ottomani, secondo un’iconografia.

I lectores medioevali tra il libro e il testo

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Federica Riviello

2012-06-01

Full Text Available L’intento del lavoro è di problematizzare alcuni aspetti, generalmente ritenuti emblematici, della relazione tra i litterati medievali e il libro – nelle sue declinazioni di Testo sacro, Libro della natura e auctoritates. L’impiego, come strumenti di lavoro, di concetti di recente elaborazione e di osservazioni di pensatori contemporanei sull’argomento, non è finalizzato ad attualizzare tale relazione, quanto piuttosto ad ampliare i punti di vista su di essa e a metterne alla prova la capacità di offrire originali spunti di riflessione. Le proposte teoriche di Jacques Derrida, Michel Foucault e Roland Barthes sono qui adoperate come esemplificazioni di un’interpretazione che ha storicamente reso quasi paradigmatico il modo di leggere dei docti, specialmente altomedievali. Tuttavia, alcune definizioni della Scrittura – il libro per eccellenza – proposte da questi ultimi, nonché la teorizzazione del suo quadruplice senso sembrano smussare la radicalità di queste osservazioni. Concetti quali “funzione-autore” di Foucault e “testo” di Barthes sono invece adottati per considerare all’interno di una diversa cornice teorica il confronto dei doctores, in particolare bassomedievali, con le cosiddette auctoritates. Nella visione ordinaria la reverenza nei confronti dell’autore, divino o umano, la ricerca e la riproposizione fedele di un significato univoco dell’opera aldilà dei segni, naturali o culturali, che lo veicolano costituiscono tratti tipici dell’atteggiamento dei lettori medievali. A fronte di questi aspetti, tuttavia, è possibile sottolinearne altri eterodossi e perlopiù trascurati, quali la rilevanza attribuita all’interpretazione, prassi ineludibile e da disciplinare, al ruolo del lettore e alla sua fruizione attiva e produttiva dei testi. The aim of the work is to problematize some aspects generally considered representative of the relationship between medieval savants and the book - in its variations

"Accessible à tous": la rivista «Mouseion» per la promozione del ruolo sociale dei musei negli anni ’30 del Novecento / “Accessible à tous”: the magazine «Mouseion» for the promotion of social role of museums during the 1930s

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Patrizia Dragoni

2015-06-01

Full Text Available Nel 1927 la commissione di esperti riunita per mettere a punto il programma dell’Office International des Musées (OIM, istituito l’anno precedente, aveva adottato alcune risoluzioni relative anche al ruolo sociale che il museo moderno era sempre più chiamato a svolgere. L’articolo, a partire da queste prime indicazioni, affronta, attraverso l’analisi della rivista ufficiale dell’OIM «Mouseion»,  il tema dello sviluppo delle attività sociali e educative promosse dall’Office e declinate nei principali paesi membri della Società delle Nazioni fino al 1939, anno in cui si sarebbe dovuto svolgere un convegno internazionale sul tema, i cui risultati avrebbero dovuto costituire il terzo volume degli atti di Muséographie. Il convegno, di cui vengono qui riferiti proposte e programmi, non venne mai realizzato a causa dello scoppio della seconda guerra mondiale.   In 1927, the committee of experts convened to study the program of the Office International des Musées (OIM, established the previous year, had adopted a number of resolutions relating to the organization of the institution, cataloging and social role of the modern museum was increasingly called upon to perform. The paper, based on these early indications, addresses through the analysis of the official magazine «Mouseion» the issue of the development of educational and social activities promoted by the OIM and declined in the major member countries of the League of Nations until 1939, the year in which would have to play an international conference on whose acts would have to be the third volume of Muséographie. The conference, which we outline here the proposals and programs, was never realized due to the outbreak of the World War II.

Agreement between Autorita per l'energia elettrica e il gas and commission de regulation de l'electricite on transfer capacity allocation over the grid interconnecting Italy and France for the year 2002

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

NONE

2001-07-01

The present document contains the general outlines adopted by the Autorita per l'energia elettrica e il gas (hereafter AEEG) and the Commission de Regulation de l'Electricite (hereafter CRE) with respect to terms and conditions for allocating the transfer capacity over the interconnected grid between Italy, France and, with reference to a technically-coupled portion of the interconnection, Switzerland for the year 2002. Same conditions will be applied by AEEG, to a possible extent, to the transfer capacity allocation over the interconnected grid between Italy. Austria and Slovenia for the year 2002.

Lo Strategic Management Accounting

OpenAIRE

G. INVERNIZZI

2005-01-01

Il saggio indaga gli aggregati informativi e gli elementi che compongono lo strategic management accounting. Sono quindi analizzate le funzioni svolte nei diversi stadi del processo di gestione strategica osservando il suo ruolo all’interno del management accounting. Infine sono approfonditi i rapporti fra i livelli della gestione strategica e lo strategic management accounting.

Il ruolo degli IDE nella globalizzazione dell'economia

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J.H. DUNNING

2013-10-01

Full Text Available Economic globalisation has magnified the effect of fixed direct investment on growth and labor allocation. The phenomenon, which involves the interrelationship among economic events in trading economies, benefits most from foreign investment when barriers to trade exist. Furthermore, in cases where no such barriers exist, investment enhanced trade. The complementary and supportive relationship between trade and investment is most evident in the activities of multinational enterprises.  JEL Codes: F63, F21 

Genetic characterization of interleukins (IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12A, IL-12B, IL-15 and IL-18) with relevant biological roles in lagomorphs

Science.gov (United States)

Neves, Fabiana; Abrantes, Joana; Almeida, Tereza; de Matos, Ana Lemos; Costa, Paulo P

2015-01-01

ILs, as essential innate immune modulators, are involved in an array of biological processes. In the European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12A, IL-12B, IL-15 and IL-18 have been implicated in inflammatory processes and in the immune response against rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus and myxoma virus infections. In this study we characterized these ILs in six Lagomorpha species (European rabbit, pygmy rabbit, two cottontail rabbit species, European brown hare and American pika). Overall, these ILs are conserved between lagomorphs, including in their exon/intron structure. Most differences were observed between leporids and American pika. Indeed, when comparing both, some relevant differences were observed in American pika, such as the location of the stop codon in IL-1α and IL-2, the existence of a different transcript in IL8 and the number of cysteine residues in IL-1β. Changes at N-glycosylation motifs were also detected in IL-1, IL-10, IL-12B and IL-15. IL-1α is the protein that presents the highest evolutionary distances, which is in contrast to IL-12A where the distances between lagomorphs are the lowest. For all these ILs, sequences of human and European rabbit are more closely related than between human and mouse or European rabbit and mouse. PMID:26395994

La Ca' Brütta di Muzio e il IV libro del Serlio. L’invenzione del linguaggio / The Ca' Brütta of Muzio and Book IV of Serlio. The Invention of Language

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Francesco Primari

2017-01-01

Full Text Available Il saggio tenta in maniera inedita di rintracciare le fonti trattatistiche della figurazione muziana, evidenziando il ruolo dell’opera di Sebastiano Serlio come punto di partenza per una operativa ricomposizione del linguaggio architettonico. La grammatica e sintassi serliana del IV libro dell’architettura è analizzata come sorgente delle soluzioni attuate nella Ca’ Brütta, definendone l’autenticità e profondità della sua genealogia ed assieme la prospettiva di lungo termine della sua eredità. / This essay attempts, in a fresh way, to trace the treatises behind Muzio’s figuration, highlighting the role of Sebastiano Serlio’s work as a departure point for an operational recomposition of architectural language. Serlio’s grammar and syntax in Book IV of his "Treatise on Architecture" is analysed as a source of the solutions adopted for Ca’ Brütta, defining the authenticity and depth of its genealogy together with a long-term view of its legacy.

Morphological, ultrastructural and immunohistochemical identification of cardiac lymphatic vessels and their functional role in cardiomyopathies

OpenAIRE

Cavalli, Stefano

2013-01-01

Il sistema linfatico consiste in una fitta rete di capillari e vasi che vanno a formare un circolo aperto e monodirezionale parallelo a quello sanguigno. Tra le sue più importanti funzioni figurano l’assorbimento degli acidi grassi ed il mantenimento dell’omeostasi tissutale mediante drenaggio di liquidi e proteine plasmatiche fuoriuscite dai capillari sanguigni nei tessuti. Il circolo linfatico, attraverso le stazioni linfonodali, svolge anche un ruolo determinante nel trasporto delle cellul...

Cinema e Shoah

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Claudia Hassan

2012-06-01

Full Text Available Il cinema è memoria. Il cinema sulla Shoah, in particolare, è diventato il paradigma stesso della memoria. Nella prospettiva della dialettica tra memoria e oblio il discorso sulla memoria attraverso il cinema diventa quella grande mediazione, quello spazio di negoziazione delle tante rappresentazioni e della storia stessa. Il saggio s’interroga sulla catena di questi significati che le opere filmiche possono assumere nello spazio pubblico. Il cinema all’interno di questa cornice ha avuto un ruolo nella costruzione della memoria pubblica e di quella collettiva rispecchiando spesso però i tempi della elaborazione collettiva del lutto.

The role of composting from the point of view of Agenda 21; Il ruolo del compostaggio nell'ottica dell'Agenda 21

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Chierici, F.

1999-10-01

Agenda 21 is more and more often mentioned in debates and meetings dealing with environment, economy and development. How to actually make the aims enunciated in what is to be considered the next century programmatic document effective is, on the contrary, hardly outlined. The aim of this article is to help in making interaction between Agenda 21 and product reality more tangible and evident, specifically as far as composting is concerned. After an analytical description of the document, the points of contact between Agenda 21 and composting are identified: each one is highlighted through a rich bibliography. [Italian] L'Agenda 21 e' sempre piu' spesso ricordata all'interno dei dibattiti e degli incontri che trattano d'ambiente, economia e sviluppo. I modi attraverso i quali contestualizzare in pratica gli obiettivi enunciati in quello che va considerato come il documento programmatico del prossimo secolo sono invece spesso solo tratteggiati. Quest'articolo vuole essere percio' un contributo per rendere piu' tangibile e visibile l'interazione esistente tra l'Agenda 21 e la realta' produttiva; nel caso specifico il compostaggio. Dopo una descrizione analitica del documento, sono individuati in modo formale i punti di contatto tra gli obiettivi dell'Agenda 21 ed il compostaggio: ciascuno di loro e' messo in evidenza facendo riferimento ad un'ampia bibliografia.

La logistica nei processi di trasformazione dell’area orientale di Napoli

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Adriana Galderisi

2010-07-01

Full Text Available Stoccaggio e trasporto merci hanno assunto, già da alcuni anni, un ruolo rilevante nell’area orientale di Napoli, con impatti significativi sulla qualità urbana ed ambientale dell’area. In quest’area, anche grazie alla sua vicinanza ai principali nodi della mobilità (porto, aeroporto, stazione ferroviaria e alla significativa presenza di aree produttive dismesse o in dismissione, trovano oggi spazio numerose attività di stoccaggio e spedizione merci, in molti casi localizzate all’interno di ex aree industriali, in assenza di una reale ottica “sistemica”. Pertanto, a partire da una breve disamina dell’evoluzione dell’area orientale e di quanto previsto dagli strumenti urbanistici vigenti per la sua trasformazione, il contributo focalizza l’attenzione sul ruolo attuale dslle attività di stoccaggio e trasporto merci nell’area. Quindi, sulla base di alcune recenti esperienze di italiane e in riferimento ad ipotesi già avanzate per l’organizzazione di una piattaforma logistica nell’area orientale di Napoli -quale strumento per ottimizzare le necessità di stoccaggio e trasporto merci riducendone le esternalità negative- valuta la compatibilità di tali scelte con le prospettive di evoluzione/trasformazione dell’area e il potenziale ruolo che l’area potrebbe svolgere in una prospettiva di ri-organizzazione del trasporto merci in ambito urbano.

Pene canoniche, sanzioni islamiche e modelli economico-speculativi: i diritti religiosi a sostegno della finanza etica

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Francesco Sorvillo

2016-03-01

SOMMARIO: 1. Elementi distorsivi caratterizzanti ed effetti collaterali dei modelli economico-speculativi – 2. Il ruolo delle religioni nell’ammortamento delle devianze dei sistemi di mercato – 3. Pene canoniche e sanzioni islamiche: i diritti religiosi a sostegno della finanza etica.

La Comunità Energetica del Sud Est Europa quale fattore di stabilità nell’area Balcanica

OpenAIRE

Massari, Saverio Francesco

2012-01-01

Il lavoro cerca di valutare il possibile ruolo della Comunità Energetica del Sud Est Europa quale fattore di stabilita’ nell’area Balcanica. Il Trattato fondativo della Comunita’ assegna a questa l’obiettivo di condurre una cooperazione in campo energetico al fine diffondere istituzioni e normative condivise, quali elementi di superamento del conflitto: tuttavia, sono molti gli ostacoli posti su questo cammino sia di natura interna alla regione che esterna, per l’influenza di fattori e poter...

L’impatto delle reti ad alta velocità sulla gerarchia delle città europee

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Giuseppe Mazzeo

2008-05-01

Full Text Available Lo spazio europeo si contraddistingue per il dualismo nazione-regione. In questo dualismo le città assumono un ruolo fondamentale in quanto il proprio successo tende a divenire il successo dei territori contermini. Manuel Castell, nel 1983, sosteneva che la città è la struttura sociale in cui qualsiasi fenomeno territoriale (dai processi di sviluppo economico alle relazioni tra classi o tra gruppi etnici, dall’intervento pubblico all’accumulazione, ecc. assume la sua maggiore forza in quanto in essa si concentrano le polarizzazioni nelle trasformazioni territoriali. Ovviamente le città non sono tutte uguali, sia per dimensione fisica che per dimensione funzionale. Inoltre ogni innovazione aggiunge e modifica il sistema di relazioni che si è generato in precedenza. Obiettivo del saggio è analizzare i fattori che generano le gerarchie urbane a livello europeo e l’impatto sulle stesse delle nuove reti ad alta velocità. Esso si articola in una prima parte in cui si effettua una lettura ed una analisi di alcuni studi relativi alla costruzione di gerarchie nel sistema urbano europeo; successivamente si passa ad analizzare il ruolo delle infrastrutture di comunicazione nella costruzione delle gerarchie ed, infine, si approfondisce l’impatto della costruzione della rete europea dell’alta velocità sulle variazioni nella gerarchia delle città.

Impact of the High Speed Train on the European Cities Hierarchy

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Giuseppe Mazzeo

2010-04-01

Full Text Available Lo spazio europeo si contraddistingue per il dualismo nazione-regione. In questo dualismo le città assumono un ruolo fondamentale in quanto il proprio successo tende a divenire il successo dei territori contermini. Manuel Castell, nel 1983, sosteneva che la città è la struttura sociale in cui qualsiasi fenomeno territoriale (dai processi di sviluppo economico alle relazioni tra classi o tra gruppi etnici, dall’intervento pubblico all’accumulazione, ecc. assume la sua maggiore forza in quanto in essa si concentrano le polarizzazioni nelle trasformazioni territoriali. Ovviamente le città non sono tutte uguali, sia per dimensione fisica che per dimensione funzionale. Inoltre ogni innovazione aggiunge e modifica il sistema di relazioni che si è generato in precedenza. Obiettivo del saggio è analizzare i fattori che generano le gerarchie urbane a livello europeo e l’impatto sulle stesse delle nuove reti ad alta velocità. Esso si articola in una prima parte in cui si effettua una lettura ed una analisi di alcuni studi relativi alla costruzione di gerarchie nel sistema urbano europeo; successivamente si passa ad analizzare il ruolo delle infrastrutture di comunicazione nella costruzione delle gerarchie ed, infine, si approfondisce l’impatto della costruzione della rete europea dell’alta velocità sulle variazioni nella gerarchia delle città.

La traduzione e la nuova letteratura. Il modernismo novecentista (tra nazionalismo e interculturalità

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Rosario Gennaro

2015-05-01

Full Text Available «Gli scrittori italiani siano all’interno e soprattutto all’estero i portatori del nuovo tipo di civiltà italiana. Spetta agli scrittori di fare quello che si può chiamare ‘imperialismo spirituale’». Questo afferma Mussolini nel 1925, ricollegandosi a un vasto dibattito sull’“espansione culturale”. L’articolo, affrontando il dibattito sulla traduzione sviluppatisi intorno al novecentismo di Bontempelli, esamina: a il progetto di nuova letteratura messo in campo dal novecentismo; b il ruolo cruciale che vi svolgono la traduzione e il commercio letterario internazionale; c il senso del nesso asserito da Bontempelli fra traducibilità e valore letterario; c le obiezioni opposte dagli avversari; d la vera posta di tali contrasti (l’egemonia nel canone letterario; e l’uso strumentale della cultura da parte del fascismo per fini di politica estera; f lo strumentale ricorso degli scrittori alla politica per fini di lotta letteraria; g la compatibilità tra apertura internazionale, traduzione, nazionalismo, imperialismo nel modernismo culturale di metà anni Venti. «Italian writers should be the mouthpieces, both in Italy and abroad, of the new brand of Italian civilization. It is the writers’ task to promote what we may call ‘spiritual imperialism’.» Thus spoke Mussolini in 1925, joining a widespread debate on “cultural expansion.” By addressing the discussion on translation that developed around Bontempelli’s “Novecentismo”, the article examines the following issues: a the project of a new literature promoted by “Novecentismo”; b the crucial role played by translation and international literary trade in this project; c the meaning of the nexus that Bontempelli posited between translatability and literary value; c the opponents’ objections; d the actual implications of such contrasts (i.e. the issue of hegemony within the establishment of a literary canon; e Fascism’s deceptively instrumental use

Jone Gaillard Corsi, Il libretto d'autore (1860-1930), West Lafayette ...

African Journals Online (AJOL)

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secondo piano rispetto alla musica e allo spettacolo, comincia a riacquistare una posizione preminente. Degli scapigliati, è Arrigo. Boito a svolgere un ruolo centrale nella storia del melodramma. Dal Re Orso (1865) al Nerone (1901) sarà sempre vivo l'intendimento di una "creazione in cui veramente le tre arti si trovassero ...

Disegno dello studio genomico, ambientale, microbiomico e metabolomico sulla celiachia: un approccio al futuro della prevenzione personalizzata della celiachia

Science.gov (United States)

SERENA, GLORIA; LEONARD, MAUREEN M.; CAMHI, STEPHANIE; HUEDO-MEDINA, TANIA B.; FASANO, ALESSIO

2017-01-01

Riassunto Negli ultimi anni abbiamo assistito a un fiorire di novità cliniche e scientifiche sulla celiachia (CE), ma forse la novità più importante che influenzerà il futuro della ricerca e della clinica in questo campo riguarda la storia naturale della malattia. Per molti anni si è creduto che la predisposizione genetica e l’esposizione al glutine fossero necessarie e sufficienti allo sviluppo della CE. Studi recenti, però suggeriscono che la perdita di tolleranza al glutine possa apparire in qualsiasi momento della vita a seguito di altri elementi. Inoltre, diversi fattori ambientali conosciuti per il loro ruolo nell’influenzare la composizione della microflora intestinale sono anche stati considerati legati allo sviluppo della CE. Tra questi fattori sono inclusi la modalità di parto, la dieta dell’infante e l’uso di antibiotici. A tutt’oggi, nessuno studio longitudinale di ampia scala ha determinato se e come la composizione del microbioma e il suo profilo metabolomico possano influenzare la perdita di tolleranza al glutine e il successivo sviluppo della CE in soggetti geneticamente predisposti. In questo articolo descriviamo uno studio prospettico, multicentrico e longitudinale su infanti a rischio per la CE che utilizzerà diverse tecniche per approfondire il ruolo che il microbioma intestinale ha durante i primi passaggi dello sviluppo della malattia autoimmune. PMID:27362724

Infezioni da H.pylori. Diagnosi: il ruolo del gastroenterologo

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Claudia Guatti Zuliani

2003-09-01

Full Text Available Diagnosis of H. pylori infection: the role of gastroenterologist Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori infection can be diagnosed by invasive techniques requiring endoscopy and biopsy (histological examination, rapid urease test, culture and by non invasive techniques (serology, urea breath test, detection of H. pylori antigen stool specimen.At present, no single test can be absolutely relied upon to detect colonization by H. pylori and a combination of two tests is recommended if feasible.Nevertheless, in routine dayto- day clinical practice H. pylori diagnosis is often by a single test and consequently the choice of the more suitable test is even more important. Choosing among them is not easy, and several issues need to be considered, such as the clinical situation, (i.e. present symptoms and past medical history, age of patients, if it is first diagnosis or follow-up after treatment.., sensitivity and specificity of the test, the cost-effectiveness of the testing strategy, the availability of the test, the local expertise . Since the “Ideal test” is not relied, the gastroenterologist or clinician as well, has the important role of deciding which test to employ. A good knowledge of advantages and vantages of each test is so necessary to make the best choose as possible.

Tragic Oedipus, Precarious Oedipus: Inheritance, Legacy and Crisis’ Imaginary in Game of Thrones

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Valentina Sturli

2017-12-01

Full Text Available Il paper propone una lettura complessiva della serie TV Game of Thrones in chiave di grande narrazione contemporanea in cui si intrecciano e si riconfigurano temi e forme tipici dei generi epico e tragico. Attraverso l’analisi delle principali linee narrative si mostrerà come la serie porti in scena un’originale versione del conflitto edipico. Meccanismo di tensione per antonomasia tra le generazioni, e problematico crocevia tra aspirazioni individuali e norme collettive, esso permette di indagare il ruolo dell’individuo in relazione al nucleo familiare di appartenenza e alle più ampie dinamiche sociali, e assume un ruolo cardine all’interno di una narrazione seriale programmaticamente incentrata sulla lotta per la successione dinastica e la gestione del potere. Si mostrerà come la particolare declinazione del tema edipico di questa serie TV entra potentemente in risonanza con le peculiari dinamiche della crisi e della precarizzazione dell’esistenza che caratterizzano l’epoca contemporanea.

[The role of endoscopy in gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors].

Science.gov (United States)

Magno, L; Sivero, L; Napolitano, V; Ruggiero, S; Fontanarosa, G; Massa, S

2010-01-01

Versione italiana Riassunto: Il ruolo dell'endoscopia nei tumori neuroendocrini gastroenteropancreatici. L. Magno, L. Sivero, V. Napolitano, S. Ruggiero, G. Fontanarosa, S. Massa I tumori neuroendocrini (NET) gastro-entero-pancreatici (GEP) sono neoplasie rare che originano dalle cellule neuroendocrine del tubo digerente e del pancreas. L'endoscopia digestiva e l'ecoendoscopia rivestono un ruolo importante nella diagnosi, stadiazione e sorveglianza dei pazienti con NET. Inoltre, in casi selezionati, le tecniche endoscopiche operative consentono il trattamento di queste neoplasie in fase precoce. English version Summary: The role of endoscopy in gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. L. Magno, L. Sivero, V. Napolitano, S. Ruggiero, G. Fontanarosa, S. Massa Gastroenteropancreatic (GEP) neuroendocrine tumors (NET) are rare neoplasia arisen from neuroendocrine cells present in the gut mucosa and pancreas. Digestive endoscopy and endoscopic ultrasonography play a relevant role in NET diagnosis, stadiation and surveillance. Moreover, in selected patients, surgical endoscopy allows the tratment of these cancers at an early stage.

L’Islam plurale in Albania: modelli di relazione con lo Stato e pace religiosa. Il ruolo del diritto statale e di quello religioso

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Giovanni Cimbalo

2014-03-01

Full Text Available Il contributo, sottoposto a valutazione, riproduce il testo nella versione integrale, completa delle note e in lingua italiana, della Comunicazione presentata al Convegno su “Islam in Europe through the Balkan Prism" (24-26 October 2013, Sarajevo. Titolo della versione inglese, destinata alla pubblicazione negli Atti, "Plural Islam in Albania: patterns of relationship with the state and religious peace".SOMMARIO: 1. Dall’Impero ottomano all’Albania indipendente 2. Le caratteristiche endogene dell’ordinamento albanese e le sue specificità - 3. Il “colonialismo giuridico” dell’Occidente e il rispetto dell’autonomia degli ordinamenti - 4. La rivisitazione delle relazioni tra Stato e Comunità religiose - 5. Estendere l’esperienza albanese agli altri Stati balcanici o quella dei Balcani all’Albania? Abstract   The protection of individual and collective freedom of religion and freedom of conscience, the regulation of state relations with religious communities in Albania, have found a solution in peculiar legal rules and traditions that in the history of the Albanian people have guaranteed the religious peace. Of great significance was the Albanian legal system resistance to accept the advice of the Venice Commission, Council of Europe and the EU that would rather prefer and have sought to impose the adoption of a single political-legal model for the Balkans, focused on a general law for the protection of religious freedom.Albanian model dates back to 1923, recognizes the cultural and religious pluralism of society and the opportunity for all religious communities to obtain civil legal personality, now allows cooperation agreements with the various religious communities. The rules put as guarantees of religious freedom those of the general law without any recourse to special rules. What happened was possible because of the plural nature of Balkan Islam which has allowed mutual respect and tolerance, and thanks to the

Batteri lattici non starter durante la stagionatura del formaggio: sopravvivenza, crescita e produzione di molecole potenzialmente coinvolte nella formazione dell'aroma

OpenAIRE

Sgarbi, Elisa

2012-01-01

I batteri lattici (LAB) costituiscono un gruppo eterogeneo di batteri tradizionalmente utilizzati nella produzione di formaggi. Essi possono svolgere diversi ruoli durante la caseificazione, gli starter LAB (SLAB) sono i protagonisti del processo di fermentazione, mentre i non starter LAB (NSLAB) esplicano il loro ruolo durante la maturazione del formaggio. Il lavoro di ricerca di questo dottorato si è focalizzato sullo studio del contributo dei NSLAB durante la stagionatura del formaggio. In...

Ethos, persona e autorità

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Christian Plantin

2012-11-01

Full Text Available Che cosa è l’ethos e che ruolo ha nell’argomentazione? al di là delle rilevanti relazioni tra i concetti di ethos e logos (l’ethos consiste principalmente di un processo discorsivo che costruisce la persona e tra ethos e pathos (l’ethos necessariamente muove, il contributo prende le mosse dagli usi polisemici della parola ethos, che sembra aver sostituito la parola personalità nel lessico dell’argomentazione. La ‘persona’ viene analizzata da tre punti di vista: in primo luogo, in quanto origine del discorso, l’ethos può avere il ruolo di prova ed essere persuasivo nella misura in cui la persona appare esperta e onesta. Quindi si analizza la distinzione tra ethos tecnico (un risultato del discorso ed extra-tecnico (il carisma. In secondo luogo, la persona è l’oggetto del discorso che condiziona l’esistenza di determinate linee (tematiche nella costruzione testuale. Infine, la persona è il destinatario del discorso: il tipo di ascoltatore determina premesse e argomenti. I modelli critici rifiutano l’autorità come se fosse una contaminazione: qui si accoglierà la sfida di pensare l’argomentazione quale attività in contesto al fine di determinare le condizioni di un uso accettabile dell’autorità. Per fare questo, si argomenterà contro un ethos invasivo dal punto di vista retorico, quindi contro l’autoritarismo. Il contesto ci indica le condizioni sociali specifiche, come le norme legali, che vincolano attraverso la forza di istituzioni convenzionali.

La mobilità negli strumenti di governo delle trasformazioni urbane

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Rosa Anna La Rocca

2010-04-01

Full Text Available La riorganizzazione del sistema della mobilità è spesso una delle chiavi interpretative più rilevanti nelle scelte di governo delle trasformazioni urbane. Nella gran parte degli interventi di trasformazione urbana orientati alla riqualificazione della città il ruolo delle scelte connesse al sistema della mobilità è sempre più incidente anche per la definizione del disegno urbano delle aree di trasformazione, ma soprattutto per migliorare l’efficienza e la vivibilità del sistema urbano. Il ruolo della pianificazione del sistema della mobilità rappresenta l’oggetto di questo lavoro. In particolare, l’articolo si sofferma su alcuni piani urbanistici di recente produzione elaborati per città italiane di grandi dimensioni (Roma, Bologna, Milano per i quali la pianificazione del sistema della mobilità ha costituito l’occasione per rilanciare una nuova visione della città. Gli esempi riportati in questo articolo rappresentano il tentativo di mostrare come, in qualche misura, la pratica urbanistica stia rispondendo alla necessità di integrare obiettivi di sviluppo urbano ed esigenze della pianificazione dei trasporti orientandoli verso obiettivi comuni tesi al raggiungimento di una maggiore vivibilità.

Tradimenti: un rischio necessario

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Irene Santoni

2012-03-01

Full Text Available Questa nota critica affronta il tema dei tradimenti relazionali da un punto di vista sociologico. Adottando questa prospettiva, tradire appare come una delle tante forme dell’intersoggettività, un rischio a cui si espone ciascun individuo ogni qualvolta si pone in relazione con l’altro. Attraverso la rilettura di alcuni contributi, che ripercorrono le diverse concezioni del tradimento, si cercherà di ricostruire la fenomenologia di questo fenomeno, allo stesso tempo complesso e banale, in cui i confini di ruolo fra il traditore e il tradito sono sempre labili.

Islam, rappresentanza degli interessi religiosi e diritto comune europeo *

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Gianfranco Macrì

2011-03-01

Full Text Available Contributo destinato alla pubblicazione negli Atti del Convegno: Europa e Islam. Ridiscutere i fondamenti per la disciplina delle libertà religiose, svoltosi a Salerno il 3 dicembre 2007. SOMMARIO: Premessa - 1. La società «reticolare» europea: sistema di governance e valori unificanti - 2. Europa e fenomeno religioso - 3. La sostanza del Trattato di Lisbona e il ruolo delle organizzazioni religiose - 4. Il dibattito interno all’Islam europeo - 5. La Carta dei musulmani d’Europa - 6. La rappresentanza degli interessi religiosi dell’Islam in Europa - Conclusioni.

La legislazione vaticana in materia finanziaria: un banco di prova dell’art. 17 del TUE e dei principi di collaborazione e cooperazione tra Chiese, Stato e Unione Europea

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Maria Cristina Folliero

2013-11-01

Full Text Available Contributo sottoposto a valutazioneSOMMARIO: 1. Premessa – 2. Antefatti e pre-condizioni della legislazione finanziaria vaticana più recente - 3. Il nuovo corso della legislazione finanziaria vaticana: ruolo e funzione dell’art. 17 del Trattato di Lisbona - 4. Chiese e processo di integrazione valoriale europeo - 5. Chiese e processo mercatista di integrazione economica europea - 6. Il processo di integrazione al modello europeo della legislazione finanziaria vaticana - 7. Un processo che continua.

Musei post-etnografici: Le trasformazioni dei rapporti tra antropologia e museo in Francia

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Benoît de L'Estoile

2016-08-01

Full Text Available L’articolo riflette sulle trasformazioni contemporanee dei rapporti tra antropologia e museo in Francia alla luce dell’apertura negli ultimi anni del Musée du quai Branly, del Musée des Civilisations de l'Europe et de la Méditerranée (MUCEM, e del rinnovamento del Musée de l'Homme. La relazione tra musei e antropologia, storicamente più stretta in Francia che in altri contesti nazionali, spiega l’intensità delle reazioni suscitate da queste trasformazioni. La ricostruzione della successione dei progetti di musei etnografici, e in particolare l’ideale del ‘museo-laboratorio’, dimostra il ruolo duraturo del paradigma enciclopedico-naturalista. L’esaurimento del paradigma naturalista, tanto negli stessi musei di storia naturale come il Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle di Parigi quanto nei musei etnografici, ha prodotto una trasformazione del ruolo dei musei, sancito dal passaggio da un discorso museografico centrato sulla scienza e il razionalismo ad un approccio estetizzante fondato sulle emozioni. Allo stesso tempo, il paradigma naturalista ed evoluzionista rinasce nel nuovo Musée de l'Homme, inaugurato nel 2015. Questi nuovi musei, che possono essere definiti come ‘post-etnografici’, non sono ancora riusciti a fare i conti con la storia e con il loro passato coloniale. Nel contempo, l’antropologia francese si trova di fronte alla sfida di reinventarsi come ‘antropologia post-museo’.

Il giornalismo come riscrittura: considerazioni sul ruolo del comunicato stampa

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Paola Catenaccio

2012-10-01

Full Text Available This paper addresses the topic of rewriting in journalistic discourse by examining the typical textual features of the press release, one of the most commonly used journalistic sources. Journalism has long being recognised as being based on reproductive writing practices (Jakobs 2003, as it consists, as Bell (1991: 41 puts it, “of previously composed text reworked into text news”. In this process of rewriting, a key role is played by sources. While their use (and occasional manipulation on the part of journalists has been variously explored in the literature, less has been done to investigate the textual features of documents specifically designed to serve as sources, most notably press releases. The paper provides a description of the characterising features of the genre of the press release, highlighting the essentially “preformulated” nature (Jacobs 1999 of these documents, i.e. the fact that their formal traits, as well as the structuring of their content, are strategically designed to facilitate reproduction. The paper concludes that while the re-use of textual material from sources is a crucial aspect of journalistic text production, care should be taken to distinguish between rewriting and uncritical textual reproduction: although recourse to the latter has been growing exponentially over the last decade due to an increasing shortening of news production cycles that has turned journalists into “processors rather than generators of news” (Lewis et al. 2008: 27 under constant pressure to continuously “churn out” (Davis 2008 stories, a renewed attention to rewriting as a key component of journalistic text production practices should be encouraged.

Stimmung e trascendenza. Il ruolo del pathos in Martin Heidegger

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Elisa Zocchi

2017-04-01

Full Text Available This paper aims to investigate the significance of mood for a philosophical approach to emotion. Are moods problematic because they constrain us in an affective cage? Or do they rather give us access to the world? The starting point for this investigation is the work of Martin Heidegger: I analyze what he defines as vorweltlich (what comes before meaning arguing that this term refers to the emotional dimension of human existence, in particular, to mood, or, in Heideggerian terms, Stimmung. Human existence is not just a neutral being-there but a being-affected, a being-in-a-mood. I then move on to consider the role of mood in relation to the concept of transcendence, providing an analysis of two main source of inspiration in Heidegger’s thought: Augustine and Aristotle. This allows us to distinguish three aspects of Stimmung: Stimmung as openness to the world, Stimmung as teleological movement, and Stimmung as event of ontological difference. In the final section, I discuss the contribution of these aspects of Heidegger’s thought to the contemporary debate on emotions.

NOTES AND GLEANINGS / NOTE E CURIOSITÀ

African Journals Online (AJOL)

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però potuto prevedere il ruolo e l'utilità del cinema nella didattica delle lingue straniere. L'uso di materiali audiovisivi e di film in particolare è una prassi ormai consolidata nell'insegnamento delle lingue e i numerosi libri ed articoli scritti su questo argomento presentano un'ampia panoramica di prospettive, alcune orientate ...

Huygens & Barrow, Newton & Hooke i primi passi dell'analisi matematica e della teoria delle catastrofi, dalle evolventi ai quasicristalli

CERN Document Server

Arnol'd, Vladimir Igorevich

1996-01-01

Il genio di Newton ha quasi fatto dimenticare i contributi, spesso molto importanti, di altri fisici matematici suoi contemporanei. In questo libro Arnold ricostruisce in maniera inedita le origini della teoria della gravitazione universale e della dimostrazione dell'ellitticità delle orbite dei pianeti, mettendo in luce il ruolo svolto da Barrow, Huyghens e Hooke e chiarendo perché esso sia stato riconosciuto solo negli anni '80 attraverso le teorie contemporanee delle singolarità dei fronti d'onda e delle relazioni che sussistono fra i gruppi di riflessione di Coxeter, il moderno calcolo delle variazioni e la teoria delle simmetrie dei quasicristalli.

Subsurface microbial ecology. Epi fluorescence direct counts; Ecologia microbica del sottosuolo: metodo di conta diretta in epifluorescenza

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Barra Caracciolo, A.; Silvestri, C.; Creo, C.; Izzo, G. [ENEA, Centro Ricerche Casaccia, Rome (Italy). Dipt. Ambiente

1998-07-01

To the aim of recognize the importance of microorganisms in affecting or even determining the fate of xenobiotics in the subsurface environment evaluating bacteria concentration in a subsurface ecosystem, the report discusses a soil sample treatment method which has been developed for epi fluorescence direct counting with DAPI. [Italian] Lo studio discute un metodo di trattamento del campione per la conta diretta in epifluorescenza con un marcatore selettivo per il DNA, il DAPI, al fine di quantificare la concentrazione batterica del sottosuolo e studiare il ruolo dei microrganismi nella biodegradazione delle molecole esogene, ancora poco indagato.

Musei parlanti. Corrado Ricci e la sfida di comunicare ad un ampio pubblico / Talking museums. Corrado Ricci and the challenge of communicating the museum to a wide audience

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Silvia Cecchini

2013-05-01

Full Text Available Nel ruolo di direttore di musei Corrado Ricci sperimenta, tra il 1893 e il 1904, la possibilità di far comunicare il museo con un pubblico più ampio degli addetti ai lavori attraverso sale allestite secondo un impianto tipologico-iconografico.  Crea così le sale storico-topografiche e le sale dei ritratti. Il modello viene realizzato per la prima volta nella Galleria Reale di Parma, poi replicato nella Galleria Estense di Modena, nell’Accademia Carrara di Bergamo, ed anche nella mostra temporanea dedicata all’antica arte senese. Introduce uno spazio di mediazione tra gli spazi della città e le sale del museo, tra il tempo presente della vita e il passato ritratto nei quadri. Proposte che oggi ci possono sollecitare a riflettere sul ruolo della ricerca e su quello della traduzione, momenti essenziali del messaggio che il museo vorrebbe trasmettere.   As Museum Director Corrado Ricci experiences, between 1893 and 1904, the ability to communicate the Museum to a wider audience then the scholars through halls outfitted with a typological-iconographic system. He creates topographic-historic rooms and rooms of portraits. The model is realized for the first time in the Royal Gallery of Parma, then replicated in Galleria Estense in Modena, in the Accademia Carrara of Bergamo, and also in the temporary exhibition dedicated to ancient art of Siena. He introduces a mediation between the spaces of the city and the rooms of the Museum, between the present life and the past of the paintings. Proposals that today we shall seek to reflect on the role of research and translation, essential moments of the message that the Museum would like to transmit.

IL-22R Ligands IL-20, IL-22, and IL-24 Promote Wound Healing in Diabetic db/db Mice.

Science.gov (United States)

Kolumam, Ganesh; Wu, Xiumin; Lee, Wyne P; Hackney, Jason A; Zavala-Solorio, Jose; Gandham, Vineela; Danilenko, Dimitry M; Arora, Puneet; Wang, Xiaoting; Ouyang, Wenjun

2017-01-01

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) are one of the major complications in type II diabetes patients and can result in amputation and morbidity. Although multiple approaches are used clinically to help wound closure, many patients still lack adequate treatment. Here we show that IL-20 subfamily cytokines are upregulated during normal wound healing. While there is a redundant role for each individual cytokine in this subfamily in wound healing, mice deficient in IL-22R, the common receptor chain for IL-20, IL-22, and IL-24, display a significant delay in wound healing. Furthermore, IL-20, IL-22 and IL-24 are all able to promote wound healing in type II diabetic db/db mice. Mechanistically, when compared to other growth factors such as VEGF and PDGF that accelerate wound healing in this model, IL-22 uniquely induced genes involved in reepithelialization, tissue remodeling and innate host defense mechanisms from wounded skin. Interestingly, IL-22 treatment showed superior efficacy compared to PDGF or VEGF in an infectious diabetic wound model. Taken together, our data suggest that IL-20 subfamily cytokines, particularly IL-20, IL-22, and IL-24, might provide therapeutic benefit for patients with DFU.

Charge protection characterisation and drift time resolution improvement for GridPix

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Koppert, W.J.C.; Fransen, M.; van Bakel, N.; van der Graaf, H.; Hartjes, F.; Timmermans, J.; Visser, J.; Kluit, R.; Gromov, V.; Zappon, F.; Blanco Carballo, V.M.; Schmitz, Jurriaan; Bilevych, Y.; Bilevych, Y.

2011-01-01

A GridPix detector is a gaseous detector capable of detecting single primary electrons from ionising particles. Such a detector consists of a pixel chip as active anode covered with a thin layer of silicon rich silicon nitride (SiRN) for protection against discharges. A layer of 8 JlIl1 SiRN, and

AA.VV., La Giustizia nella Letteratura e nello Spettacolo Siciliani tra ...

African Journals Online (AJOL)

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ruolo e i significati attribuiti al concetto di Giustizia nella. Letteratura e nello Spettacolo Siciliani tra '800 e '900. Da Verga a Sciascia costituisce il volume che raccoglie, a cura di Angelo. Zappulla, gli Atti del convegno su questo fondamentale tema. La centralità del tema Giustizia, nelle più diverse forme del fervore culturale ...

CT assessment of thoracic gunshot wounds. Our personal experience; Ruolo della Tomografia Computerizzata nelle lesioni da arma da fuoco del torace. Esperienza personale

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Salzano, A.; De Rosa, A. [Ospedale Loreto Mare, Neaples (Italy). Servizio di Radiologia; Carbone, M.; Rossi, E.; Burnese, L. [Neaples Univ., Neaples (Italy). Ist. di Scienze Radiologiche; Muto, M.; Tuccillo, M. [Azienda Ospedaliera di Rilievo Nazionale A. Cardarelli, Neaples (Italy). Servizio di Neuroradiologia, 2 Servizio di Radiologia; Nunziata, A. [Pronto Soccorso Est, ASL NA1, Neaples (Italy). Area di Diagnostica per Immagini

1999-11-01

delle principali lesioni interne con adeguata e istantanea pianificazione del trattamento chirurgico d'emergenza e/o rianimativo di supporto. Scopo del presente lavoro e' quello di illustrare il ruolo dell'esame TC nel documentare le molteplici e complesse lesioni pleuropolmonari, cardiovasali e della parete toracica, la cui compromissione si manifesta con semeiologia specifica e acuta del tutto diversa da quella della traumatologia toracica classica. Negli ultimi 4 anni sono stati osservati presso il pronto soccorso dell'Ospedale Loreto Mare di Napoli 76 casi di ferite d'arma da fuoco, di cui 26 con interessamento toracico: 25 maschi e una femmina (eta' media 32 anni, compresa tra 17 e 48 anni). Tutti i pazienti sono stati sottoposti a TC d'urgenza del torace con iniezione endovenosa di mdc e con tecnica angio-TC e in presenza del medico rianimatore con monitoraggio delle funzioni vitali e dello stato di shock. In 4 casi e' stato completato con studio TC dell'addome e pelvi per la presenza di lesioni associate toraco-addominali e in 3 casi con TC del cranio per lesioni encefaliche da proiettile. Il radiogramma del torace consente di documentare i danni maggiori toraco-polmonari d'arma da fuoco, anche se non permette la valutazione precisa delle lesioni cardiache e dei grandi vasi e dei pneumotoraci minimali. L'associazione di alterazioni traumatiche cranio-addominali concomitanti indirizza l'approccio diagnostico verso una metodica di primo livello come la TC, in grado di fornire con un unico esame il giudizio immediato sul grado di compromissione, panoramicita' e gravita' delle lesioni da arma da fuoco polmonari e extratoraciche. Cio' consente di instaurare la terapia tempestiva e mirata, sia essa chirurgica o di supporto rianimativo, evitando ritardi diagnostici e di gestione terapeutica sicuramente dannosi per la sopravvivenza del paziente.

Th-17 regulatory cytokines IL-21, IL-23, and IL-6 enhance neutrophil production of IL-17 cytokines during asthma.

Science.gov (United States)

Halwani, Rabih; Sultana, Asma; Vazquez-Tello, Alejandro; Jamhawi, Amer; Al-Masri, Abeer A; Al-Muhsen, Saleh

2017-11-01

In a subset of severe asthma patients, chronic airway inflammation is associated with infiltration of neutrophils, Th-17 cells and elevated expression of Th-17-derived cytokines (e.g., interleukin [IL]-17, IL-21, IL-22). Peripheral neutrophils from allergic asthmatics are known to express higher IL-17 cytokine levels than those from healthy subjects, but the regulatory mechanisms involved are not well understood. We hypothesize that Th-17 regulatory cytokines could modulate IL-17 expression in neutrophils. Peripheral blood neutrophils isolated from asthmatics were stimulated with IL-21, IL-23, and IL-6 cytokines and their ability to produce IL-17A and IL-17F was determined relative to healthy controls. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) phosphorylation levels were measured in stimulated neutrophil using flow cytometry. The requirement for STAT3 phosphorylation was determined by blocking its activation using a specific chemical inhibitor. Stimulating asthmatic neutrophils with IL-21, 23, and 6 enhanced the production of IL-17A and IL-17F at significantly higher levels comparatively to healthy controls. Stimulating neutrophils with IL-21, IL-23, and IL-6 cytokines enhanced STAT3 phosphorylation, in all cases. Interestingly, inhibiting STAT3 phosphorylation using a specific chemical inhibitor dramatically blocked the ability of neutrophils to produce IL-17, demonstrating that STAT3 activation is the major factor mediating IL-17 gene expression. These findings suggest that neutrophil infiltration in lungs of severe asthmatics may represent an important source of pro-inflammatory IL-17A and -F cytokines, a production enhanced by Th-17 regulatory cytokines, and thus providing a feedback mechanism that sustains inflammation. Our results suggest that STAT3 pathway could be a potential target for regulating neutrophilic inflammation during severe asthma.

INSEGNARE L’ITALIANO L2 NELLA SCUOLA SUPERIORE DI PRIMO GRADO. IL LABORATORIO HOGWARTS: GIOCARE PER IMPARARE

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Melissa Sala

2012-07-01

Full Text Available L’articolo propone un progetto didattico per l’insegnamento dell’italiano L2 nella scuola superiore di primo grado che prevede l’inserimento di studenti stranieri, provenienti da paesi diversi, in un gioco di ruolo didattico ispirato alla saga di Harry Potter.Particolare attenzione è data al laboratorio Hogwarts, un laboratorio specifico il cui obiettivo è quello di promuovere l’interazione, la socializzazione, ma soprattutto l’apprendimento dell’italiano come lingua di comunicazione. La didattica del laboratorio fonde insieme elementi del metodo comunicativo ed elementi del metodo audiolinguale richiamando la didattica ludica in quanto il gioco è assunto come modalità strategica di apprendimento. L’idea che sta alla base del laboratorio Hogwarts è quella di coinvolgere gli apprendenti, stimolarne l’interesse e la curiosità attraverso l’utilizzo di materiale video (visual stimuli e attraverso l’attività ludica che mantiene viva la loro attenzione e la loro motivazione favorendone l’apprendimento linguistico attraverso il divertimento.TEACHING ITALIAN L2 IN MIDDLE SCHOOL. THE HOGWARTS LAB: LEARNNG BY PLAYINGThe article illustrates a project aimed at teaching Italian as a second language. The target audience is middle school students from different countries and with different L1 backgrounds. Students take part in didactic role-plays inspired by the Harry Potter series. Special emphasis is given to the Hogwarts Language Lab, which aims to promote interaction, socialization and second language acquisition. The Lab teaching strategy combines elements of the communicative approach and the audio-lingual method with role-playing. The principle behind the Hogwarts Lab is that the students have to be active participants rather than passive observers. Their involvement can be increased and their interest can be raised through the use of the video input (visual stimuli and role-playing as a teaching strategy. Students are

Trends in life science grid: from computing grid to knowledge grid

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Konagaya Akihiko

2006-12-01

Full Text Available Abstract Background Grid computing has great potential to become a standard cyberinfrastructure for life sciences which often require high-performance computing and large data handling which exceeds the computing capacity of a single institution. Results This survey reviews the latest grid technologies from the viewpoints of computing grid, data grid and knowledge grid. Computing grid technologies have been matured enough to solve high-throughput real-world life scientific problems. Data grid technologies are strong candidates for realizing "resourceome" for bioinformatics. Knowledge grids should be designed not only from sharing explicit knowledge on computers but also from community formulation for sharing tacit knowledge among a community. Conclusion Extending the concept of grid from computing grid to knowledge grid, it is possible to make use of a grid as not only sharable computing resources, but also as time and place in which people work together, create knowledge, and share knowledge and experiences in a community.

IL-6/IL-12 Cytokine Receptor Shuffling of Extra- and Intracellular Domains Reveals Canonical STAT Activation via Synthetic IL-35 and IL-39 Signaling.

Science.gov (United States)

Floss, D M; Schönberg, M; Franke, M; Horstmeier, F C; Engelowski, E; Schneider, A; Rosenfeldt, E M; Scheller, J

2017-11-09

IL-35 and IL-39 are recently discovered shared members of the IL-6- and IL-12-type cytokine family with immune-suppressive capacity. IL-35 has been reported to induce the formation of four different receptor complexes: gp130:IL-12β2, gp130:gp130, IL-12β2:IL-12β2, and IL-12β2:WSX-1. IL-39 was proposed to form a gp130:IL-23R receptor complex. IL-35, but not IL-39, has been reported to activate non-conventional STAT signaling, depending on the receptor complex and target cell. Analyses of IL-35 and IL-39 are, however, hampered by the lack of biologically active recombinant IL-35 and IL-39 proteins. Therefore, we engineered chimeric cytokine receptors to accomplish synthetic IL-35 and IL- 39 signaling by shuffling the extra- and intracellular domains of IL-6/IL-12-type cytokine receptors, resulting in biological activity for all previously described IL-35 receptor complexes. Moreover, we found that the proposed IL-39 receptor complex is biologically active and discovered two additional biologically active synthetic receptor combinations, gp130/IL-12Rβ1 and IL-23R/IL-12Rβ2. Surprisingly, synthetic IL-35 activation led to more canonical STAT signaling of all receptor complexes. In summary, our receptor shuffling approach highlights an interchangeable, modular domain structure among IL-6- and IL-12-type cytokine receptors and enabled synthetic IL-35 and IL-39 signaling.

Grid interoperability: joining grid information systems

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Flechl, M; Field, L

2008-01-01

A grid is defined as being 'coordinated resource sharing and problem solving in dynamic, multi-institutional virtual organizations'. Over recent years a number of grid projects, many of which have a strong regional presence, have emerged to help coordinate institutions and enable grids. Today, we face a situation where a number of grid projects exist, most of which are using slightly different middleware. Grid interoperation is trying to bridge these differences and enable Virtual Organizations to access resources at the institutions independent of their grid project affiliation. Grid interoperation is usually a bilateral activity between two grid infrastructures. Recently within the Open Grid Forum, the Grid Interoperability Now (GIN) Community Group is trying to build upon these bilateral activities. The GIN group is a focal point where all the infrastructures can come together to share ideas and experiences on grid interoperation. It is hoped that each bilateral activity will bring us one step closer to the overall goal of a uniform grid landscape. A fundamental aspect of a grid is the information system, which is used to find available grid services. As different grids use different information systems, interoperation between these systems is crucial for grid interoperability. This paper describes the work carried out to overcome these differences between a number of grid projects and the experiences gained. It focuses on the different techniques used and highlights the important areas for future standardization

Optimization of MIS/IL solar cells parameters using genetic algorithm

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ahmed, K.A.; Mohamed, E.A.; Alaa, S.H. [Faculty of Engineering, Alexandria Univ. (Egypt); Motaz, M.S. [Institute of Graduate Studies and Research, Alexandria Univ. (Egypt)

2004-07-01

This paper presents a genetic algorithm optimization for MIS/IL solar cell parameters including doping concentration NA, metal work function {phi}m, oxide thickness d{sub ox}, mobile charge density N{sub m}, fixed oxide charge density N{sub ox} and the external back bias applied to the inversion grid V. The optimization results are compared with theoretical optimization and shows that the genetic algorithm can be used for determining the optimum parameters of the cell. (orig.)

Evoluzioni psicoanalitiche e cambiamento in psicoterapia psicoanalitica

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Rosario Di Sauro

2009-06-01

Full Text Available In questo articolo si prende in considerazione l’evoluzione teoretica della psicoanalisi, passando dal modello freudiano monadico ad un approccio di matrice relazionale.  Altresì  viene evidenziato il contributo della psicologia clinica come elemento costitutivo della psicoterapia psicoanalitica, come espressività del continuum psicologia clinica-psicoterapia. Tutto ciò rappresenta, inoltre, la conditio sine qua non per il cambiamento terapeutico. Se ne evidenziano, infatti gli elementi caratteristici per una buona riuscita del processo terapeutico. L’Autore inoltre, mette in rilievo il ruolo della psicocorporeità nel trattamento psicoanalitico, sia come comunicazione del ‘non verbale’ sia come costrutto epistemologico di un nuovo apporto alla scienza psicoanalitica.

«Più saggia di Edipo». Su alcune fonti di «Ödipus und die Sphinx» di Hofmannsthal

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Elena Raponi

2016-12-01

Full Text Available Il saggio analizza la tragedia Ödipus und die Sphinx (Edipo e la Sfinge, 1906 di Hugo von Hofmannsthal in relazione con le sue fonti, mostrando come la figura di Eleonora Duse, tanto venerata dal poeta austriaco da indurlo a plasmare su di lei il ruolo di Giocasta, abbia provocato sia l’allontanamento dell’opera dalla primitiva fonte francese OEdipe et le Sphinx di Joséphin Péladan (1903, sia il suo avvicinamento al mondo poetico dannunziano, di cui l’attrice italiana era stata ispiratrice e interprete. Allo stesso tempo il saggio mostra come Hofmannsthal affidi alla dialettica interna ai personaggi della sua tragedia e in particolare a Giocasta il compito di ridimensionare e correggere il superomismo dannunziano, lasciando emergere, qui appena accennato, il mondo di delicate relazioni che caratterizzerà le commedie della maturità.

Quando il museo comunica l’impresa: identità organizzativa e sensemaking nel museo Salvatore Ferragamo / When the museum communicates the company: organizational identity and sensemaking in Salvatore Ferragamo museum

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Floriana Iannone

2016-06-01

Full Text Available I musei d’impresa rappresentano una forma di memoria organizzativa che può e deve essere usata in maniera consapevole per lo sviluppo e la comunicazione dell’identità e dell’immagine dell’impresa. Oggetto del lavoro è l’analisi del ruolo strategico che il museo può assumere come strumento di narrazione dell’identità d’impresa. Il framework teorico è basato sui costrutti dell’identità organizzativa e del sensemaking nonché sul paradigma narrativo. In particolare, l’indagine esplorativa chiarisce la natura e il contenuto dell’identità organizzativa della Ferragamo SpA, considerando il museo d’impresa come asset in grado di comunicare ed esaltare i valori identitari dell’impresa. Ferragamo rappresenta un exemplum di come un’impresa heritage-based possa adoperare la storia nella “narrazione” allo scopo di dialogare con i suoi stakeholders esterni e interni rafforzando autenticità e credibilità nel marchio.  The paper assumes that corporate museums are a form of organizational memory to be strategically used for the development and the communication of a company’s identity and image. Object of the work is the analysis of corporate museum’s strategic role in telling the company. The theoretical framework is based on organizational identity and sensemaking topics together with the narrative paradigm. The exploratory study clarifies the organizational identity nature of the Ferragamo SpA, considering the corporate museum as an asset communicating what is core about the company. Ferragamo can be considered as an exemplum of how a heritage based company can manage the story in “narrative” in order to communicate to its external and internal stakeholders reinforcing the authenticity and the credibility of the brand.

IL-6 enhances plasma IL-1ra, IL-10, and cortisol in humans

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Steensberg, Adam; Fischer, Christian Philip; Keller, Charlotte

2003-01-01

compared with saline infusion. In addition, C-reactive protein increased 3 h post-rhIL-6 infusion and was further elevated 16 h later compared with saline infusion. rhIL-6 induced increased levels of plasma cortisol and, consequently, an increase in circulating neutrophils and a decrease in the lymphocyte......-alpha, enhances the levels not only of IL-1ra but also of IL-10. Furthermore, IL-6 induces an increase in cortisol and, consequently, in neutrocytosis and late lymphopenia to the same magnitude and with the same kinetics as during exercise, suggesting that muscle-derived IL-6 has a central role in exercise...

Internalization of interleukin 1 (IL 1) correlates with IL 1-induced IL 2 receptor expression and IL 2 secretion of EL4 thymoma cells

OpenAIRE

Von Hoegen, I.; Falk, Werner; Kojouharoff, G.; Krammer, P. H.

1989-01-01

The cytokine interleukin 1 (IL 1) plays an important role in the induction of IL 2 secretion and high-affinity IL 2 receptor (IL 2R) expression by T cells. The events that follow binding of IL 1 to IL 1R, however, are still unknown. In this study we describe two variants of the murine thymoma EL4 (5D3 and D6/76) that express comparable numbers of cell surface IL 1 receptors and bind IL 1 with the same affinity, but show distinct IL 1-dependent IL 2 secretion and IL 2R expression. In the prese...

Humiliation and love. Villaggio, Benigni and the cultural politics of emotions

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Francesco Ricatti

2014-12-01

Full Text Available Umiliazione e amore: Villaggio, Benigni e la politica culturale delle emozioniLa forte dicotomia emotiva fra eroismo e codardia ha svolto un ruolo importante nella costruzione ed evoluzione dell’identità nazionale italiana. Questo articolo considera le opere più influenti di Paolo Villaggio e Roberto Benigni, e il loro ruolo nello sviluppo di una alternativa emotiva a tale dicotomia. I loro film si concentrano principalmente su una singola emozione: l’umiliazione nel caso di Villaggio, e l’amore nel caso di Benigni. È attraverso questa attenzione ad una singola emozione che questi autori e interpreti sono riusciti a costruire dei personaggi che, pur tipicamente italiani, non possono essere facilmente ricondotti né alla categoria dell’eroe né a quella del codardo. L’articolo sostiene l’importanza politica di questa alternativa emotiva, e nota come il suo progressivo indebolimento sia coinciso con l’incapacità della sinistra italiana di elaborare una risposta efficace alle politiche fortemente emotive di Berlusconi. L’articolo dimostra l’importanza di studiare i complessi rapporti fra comicità, emozioni e politica nella storia culturale e politica italiana.

Geometrie del senso. Ripensare la semiotica dell’immagine a partire da La macchina della pittura

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Lucia Corrain

2012-12-01

Full Text Available Il contributo intende ripercorrere il ruolo che Omar Calabrese ha avuto nella fondazione della Semiotica dell’arte. Una disciplina che, in Italia, vede la sua nascita a partire dall’ultimo ventennio del secolo scorso e che lo studioso, recentemente scomparso, ha contribuito a delineare con precisione. Il volume La macchina della pittura è sicuramente il suo contributo più innovativo, più sistematico e anc’oggi attuale. All’epoca in cui è stato pubblicato, nel 1985, lanciava una duplice sfida: alla storia dell’arte tradizionale e alla semiotica. Alla prima perché imponeva un altro tipo di sguardo, capace di decifrare il modo in cui attraverso la forma è costruito il senso pittorico. Alla semiotica perché dimostra come la pittura sia in grado di produrre senso e addirittura contenga al suo interno i meccanismi per interpretarla.

Il ruolo delle infrastrutture nella costruzione e nella percezione del territorio

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Roberto Busi

2012-08-01

Full Text Available L’opera di pianificazione del paesaggio non può che passare attraverso la pianificazione delle componenti fisiche del territorio che, oltre agli indubitabili significati ed obiettivi funzionali, sono anche gli elementi costitutivi del paesaggio perché rappresentano le componenti percepibili del territorio medesimo; cosicché la pianificazione paesistica viene ad essere ad un tempo la diretta conseguenza e l’alta motivazione di quella urbanistico-territoriale conferendole motivi, fini e valori elevati.E le infrastrutture sono, come detto, le componenti fisiche primarie dell’antropizzazione del territorio sia in quanto tali, sia in quanto fattore per eccellenza di eventi generanti componenti fisiche.

L’urbanistica riconoscerà mai il ruolo dei sistemi informativi territoriali?

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Mauro Salvemini

2012-06-01

Full Text Available It is discussed the role of GI in contemporary city  planning  considering  three  2012  May events.REAL  CORP  2012  in  Schwechat  which  of-fered  the  possibility  to  collectively  discuss a  wide  range  of  topics  in  different  panel groups  and  workshops  about  “RE-MIXING THE CITY” which is a challenge to manage and  re-combine  the  elements  which  make our modern cities in order to better respond to change. INPUT  2012  which  in  Cagliari  was  discuss-ing how new technologies play a prominent role in the innovation of planning theory and practice,  as  they  affect  every  phase  of  the process:  knowledge  building,  preliminary studies,  design,  decision,  implementation, and monitoring.The kick off of the EC co-funded project Plan-4Business which aims to develop a platform that can serve users a full catalogue of plan-ning data such as transport infrastructure, re-gional plans, urban plans and zoning plans.

Clinical significance of determination of changes of serum IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 and IL-18 levels after treatment in patients with chronic renal diseases

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Liu Congjiang; Li Fen; Zhang Lei; Liu Jianhua

2008-01-01

Objective: To explore the changes of serum IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 and IL-18 levels after treatment in patients with chronic renal diseases. Methods: Serum IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 levels were determined with RIA and IL-18 levels with ELISA in 32 patients with chronic renal diseases both before and after treatment as well as in 35 controls. Results: Before treatment the serum IL -6, IL-8, IL-10 and IL-18 levels were significantly higher in the patients than those in controls (P<0.01). After 6 months of treatment, the levels though dropped markedly remained significantly higher (P<0.05). Conclusion: Levels of serum IL-6, IL- 8, IL-10 and IL-18 increased significantly in patients with chronic renal diseases, especially in those advanced cases. (authors)

Il fascino dell'economia (A fascination with economics

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K. BRUNNER

2013-12-01

Full Text Available l'articolo è un contributo ad una serie di ricordi e riflessioni sulle esperienze professionali di illustri economisti con Banca Nazionale del Lavoro Quarterly Review iniziate nel 1979. In esso Karl Brunner discute l' evoluzione del suo pensiero sul ruolo e l'uso dell'economia per quanto riguarda  tre problemi distintiThe paper is a contribution to a series of recollections and reflections on the professional experiences of distinguished economists which the Banca Nazionale del Lavoro Quarterly Review started in 1979. In it Karl Brunner discusses the evolution of his thoughts on the role and use of economics with regards to three distinct problems. JEL: B31, A11

IFN-γ, IL-4 and IL-13 modulate responsiveness of human airway smooth muscle cells to IL-13

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Michoud Marie-Claire

2008-12-01

Full Text Available Abstract Background IL-13 is a critical mediator of allergic asthma and associated airway hyperresponsiveness. IL-13 acts through a receptor complex comprised of IL-13Rα1 and IL-4Rα subunits with subsequent activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6. The IL-13Rα2 receptor may act as a decoy receptor. In human airway smooth muscle (HASM cells, IL-13 enhances cellular proliferation, calcium responses to agonists and induces eotaxin production. We investigated the effects of pre-treatment with IL-4, IL-13 and IFN-γ on the responses of HASM cells to IL-13. Methods Cultured HASM were examined for expression of IL-13 receptor subunits using polymerase chain reaction, immunofluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry. Effects of cytokine pre-treatment on IL-13-induced cell responses were assessed by looking at STAT6 phosphorylation using Western blot, eotaxin secretion and calcium responses to histamine. Results IL-13Rα1, IL-4Rα and IL-13Rα2 subunits were expressed on HASM cells. IL-13 induced phosphorylation of STAT6 which reached a maximum by 30 minutes. Pre-treatment with IL-4, IL-13 and, to a lesser degree, IFN-γ reduced peak STAT6 phosphorylation in response to IL-13. IL-13, but not IFN-γ, pre-treatment abrogated IL-13-induced eotaxin secretion. Pre-treatment with IL-4 or IL-13 abrogated IL-13-induced augmentation of the calcium transient evoked by histamine. Cytokine pre-treatment did not affect expression of IL-13Rα1 and IL-4Rα but increased expression of IL-13Rα2. An anti-IL-13Rα2 neutralizing antibody did not prevent the cytokine pre-treatment effects on STAT6 phosphorylation. Cytokine pre-treatment increased SOCS-1, but not SOCS-3, mRNA expression which was not associated with significant increases in protein expression. Conclusion Pre-treatment with IL-4 and IL-13, but not IFN-γ, induced desensitization of the HASM cells to IL-13 as measured by eotaxin secretion and calcium transients to histamine

IL-33 Enhanced the Proliferation and Constitutive Production of IL-13 and IL-5 by Fibrocytes

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Hisako Hayashi

2014-01-01

Full Text Available Interleukin-33 appears to play important roles in the induction of allergic airway inflammation. However, whether IL-33 is involved in airway remodeling remains unclear. Because fibrocytes contribute to tissue remodeling in the setting of chronic inflammation, we examined the effects of IL-33 on fibrocyte functions. Fibrocytes were generated in vitro from peripheral blood mononuclear cells by culturing in the presence of platelet derived growth factors and the cells were stimulated with IL-33. IL-33 enhanced cell proliferation, α-SMA expression, and pro-MMP-9 activity by the fibrocytes without increasing endogenous transforming growth factor-β1 production. Fibrocytes constitutively expressed IL-13 and IL-5, and their production was augmented by stimulation with IL-33. Dexamethasone inhibited the functions of fibrocytes, but IL-33 made fibrocytes slightly refractory to the inhibitory effect of dexamethasone in terms of IL-13 production. Montelukast suppressed IL-13 production by nonstimulated fibrocytes but not those stimulated by IL-33. These findings suggest that IL-33 is involved in the airway remodeling process through its modulation of fibrocyte function independent of antigen stimulation. IL-33 might partially reduce the therapeutic effects of glucocorticoid and cysteinyl leukotriene receptor antagonist on fibrocyte-mediated Th2 responses.

Near-Body Grid Adaption for Overset Grids

Science.gov (United States)

Buning, Pieter G.; Pulliam, Thomas H.

2016-01-01

A solution adaption capability for curvilinear near-body grids has been implemented in the OVERFLOW overset grid computational fluid dynamics code. The approach follows closely that used for the Cartesian off-body grids, but inserts refined grids in the computational space of original near-body grids. Refined curvilinear grids are generated using parametric cubic interpolation, with one-sided biasing based on curvature and stretching ratio of the original grid. Sensor functions, grid marking, and solution interpolation tasks are implemented in the same fashion as for off-body grids. A goal-oriented procedure, based on largest error first, is included for controlling growth rate and maximum size of the adapted grid system. The adaption process is almost entirely parallelized using MPI, resulting in a capability suitable for viscous, moving body simulations. Two- and three-dimensional examples are presented.

IL-1 and IL-23 mediate early IL-17A production in pulmonary inflammation leading to late fibrosis.

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Paméla Gasse

Full Text Available BACKGROUND: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a devastating as yet untreatable disease. We demonstrated recently the predominant role of the NLRP3 inflammasome activation and IL-1β expression in the establishment of pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis in mice. METHODS: The contribution of IL-23 or IL-17 in pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis was assessed using the bleomycin model in deficient mice. RESULTS: We show that bleomycin or IL-1β-induced lung injury leads to increased expression of early IL-23p19, and IL-17A or IL-17F expression. Early IL-23p19 and IL-17A, but not IL-17F, and IL-17RA signaling are required for inflammatory response to BLM as shown with gene deficient mice or mice treated with neutralizing antibodies. Using FACS analysis, we show a very early IL-17A and IL-17F expression by RORγt(+ γδ T cells and to a lesser extent by CD4αβ(+ T cells, but not by iNKT cells, 24 hrs after BLM administration. Moreover, IL-23p19 and IL-17A expressions or IL-17RA signaling are necessary to pulmonary TGF-β1 production, collagen deposition and evolution to fibrosis. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings demonstrate the existence of an early IL-1β-IL-23-IL-17A axis leading to pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis and identify innate IL-23 and IL-17A as interesting drug targets for IL-1β driven lung pathology.

Photovoltaic Grid-Connected Modeling and Characterization Based on Experimental Results.

Science.gov (United States)

Humada, Ali M; Hojabri, Mojgan; Sulaiman, Mohd Herwan Bin; Hamada, Hussein M; Ahmed, Mushtaq N

2016-01-01

A grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) system operates under fluctuated weather condition has been modeled and characterized based on specific test bed. A mathematical model of a small-scale PV system has been developed mainly for residential usage, and the potential results have been simulated. The proposed PV model based on three PV parameters, which are the photocurrent, IL, the reverse diode saturation current, Io, the ideality factor of diode, n. Accuracy of the proposed model and its parameters evaluated based on different benchmarks. The results showed that the proposed model fitting the experimental results with high accuracy compare to the other models, as well as the I-V characteristic curve. The results of this study can be considered valuable in terms of the installation of a grid-connected PV system in fluctuated climatic conditions.

Quantitative Contribution of IL2Rγ to the Dynamic Formation of IL2-IL2R Complexes.

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Luis F Ponce

Full Text Available Interleukin-2 (IL2 is a growth factor for several immune cells and its function depends on its binding to IL2Rs in the cell membrane. The most accepted model for the assembling of IL2-IL2R complexes in the cell membrane is the Affinity Conversion Model (ACM. This model postulates that IL2R receptor association is sequential and dependent on ligand binding. Most likely free IL2 binds first to IL2Rα, and then this complex binds to IL2Rβ, and finally to IL2Rγ (γc. However, in previous mathematical models representing this process, the binding of γc has not been taken into account. In this work, the quantitative contribution of the number of IL2Rγ chain to the IL2-IL2R apparent binding affinity and signaling is studied. A mathematical model of the affinity conversion process including the γ chain in the dynamic, has been formulated. The model was calibrated by fitting it to experimental data, specifically, Scatchard plots obtained using human cell lines. This paper demonstrates how the model correctly explains available experimental observations. It was estimated, for the first time, the value of the kinetic coefficients of IL2-IL2R complexes interaction in the cell membrane. Moreover, the number of IL2R components in different cell lines was also estimated. It was obtained a variable distribution in the number of IL2R components depending on the cell type and the activation state. Of most significance, the study predicts that not only the number of IL2Rα and IL2Rβ, but also the number of γc determine the capacity of the cell to capture and retain IL2 in signalling complexes. Moreover, it is also showed that different cells might use different pathways to bind IL2 as consequence of its IL2R components distribution in the membrane.

The MammoGrid Project Grids Architecture

CERN Document Server

McClatchey, Richard; Hauer, Tamas; Estrella, Florida; Saiz, Pablo; Rogulin, Dmitri; Buncic, Predrag; Clatchey, Richard Mc; Buncic, Predrag; Manset, David; Hauer, Tamas; Estrella, Florida; Saiz, Pablo; Rogulin, Dmitri

2003-01-01

The aim of the recently EU-funded MammoGrid project is, in the light of emerging Grid technology, to develop a European-wide database of mammograms that will be used to develop a set of important healthcare applications and investigate the potential of this Grid to support effective co-working between healthcare professionals throughout the EU. The MammoGrid consortium intends to use a Grid model to enable distributed computing that spans national borders. This Grid infrastructure will be used for deploying novel algorithms as software directly developed or enhanced within the project. Using the MammoGrid clinicians will be able to harness the use of massive amounts of medical image data to perform epidemiological studies, advanced image processing, radiographic education and ultimately, tele-diagnosis over communities of medical "virtual organisations". This is achieved through the use of Grid-compliant services [1] for managing (versions of) massively distributed files of mammograms, for handling the distri...

Book review. Gli animali, l'uomo e l'ambiente. (a cura di Giorgio Battelli, Raffaella Baldelli, Fabio Ostanello, Santino Prosperi

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Manuel Graziani

2013-12-01

Full Text Available Da sempre i Servizi Veterinari Pubblici sono una componente poco conosciuta del Servizio Sanitario Nazionale, le loro prestazioni vengono spesso fruite in modo inconsapevole sia dalla popolazione che dall'amministrazione pubblica. È pleonastico ricordare che si tratta di attività sanitarie il cui scopo prevalente è quello di tutelare la salute animale e umana e di promuovere la produttività e il benessere delle popolazioni animali. Ma vale la pena ribadire che tali attività hanno un ruolo assai rilevante anche sotto il profilo economico e sociale. Questo corposo volume fa il punto sulle competenze che le diverse componenti professionali devono possedere. Un volume importante per comprendere la realtà veterinaria italiana, pubblica e privata, nato dal lavoro congiunto di figure di primo livello della medicina veterinaria del Paese: i curatori sono tutti docenti del Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Veterinarie dell'Università di Bologna, convinti assertori del ruolo sociale della Medicina veterinaria, del concetto di Medicina/Salute unica e della necessità di migliorare l'aspetto formativo. I professori Battelli, Baldelli, Ostanello e Prosperi fanno parte di quella che viene definita la "Scuola bolognese di Sanità Pubblica Veterinaria" il cui fondatore è stato Adriano Mantovani (scomparso a marzo dello scorso anno, unanimemente considerato il Padre della SPV italiana e di cui vengono qui pubblicati 3 scritti e una breve scheda biografica che lo ricorda. Il volume è suddiviso in tre parti allo scopo di fornire al lettore un percorso interpretativo logico che si sviluppa verso la comprensione delle competenze e dei campi di attività dei Servizi Veterinari nel nostro Paese, fino a mettere in luce le sfide attuali e future che la SPV deve affrontare. Particolare attenzione viene posta nei confronti dell'evoluzione che tali attività sanitarie potranno avere nel prossimo futuro, in riferimento ai cambiamenti socio-economici, alle attivit

The changes of IL-8, IL-10, IL-12 and IgE in serum of patients with asthma

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zhang Chao; Liu Deyi; Hou Guihua; Wang Haodan

2002-01-01

To evaluate the relationship and the clinical significance between the serum IL-8, IL-10, IL-12 and IgE in patients with asthma, the serum IL-8, IL-10 are measured by radioimmunoassay method and the serum IL-12, IgE by ELISA in 55 patients with asthma. The level of serum IL-8, IgE at stage of episode are significantly higher than that at stage of remission (P<0.01); the level of serum IL-10, IL-12 at stage of episode are significantly lower than that at stage of remission (P<0.01). Linear regression shows that the decrease of IL-12 relate to the increase of IgE. The results suggests that the change of the level of serum IL-8, IL-10, IL-12 and IgE could be a maker for the aggravation of asthma

Cytokines (interleukin-9, IL-17, IL-22, IL-25 and IL-33 and asthma

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Rahim Farahani

2014-01-01

Full Text Available Asthma is a reversible airway obstruction that is characterized by constriction of airway smooth muscle, hyper secretion of mucus, edema and airway hyper responsiveness (AHR, mucus secretion and thickening of the basement membrane underlying the airway epithelium. During the process of airway inflammation, complex interactions of innate and adaptive immune cells as well as structural cells and their cytokines have many important roles. It was believed that airway inflammation is orchestrated by allergen specific T helper (Th 2 cells, which recruit and accumulate in the lungs and produce a range of different effector cytokines. However, more recent studies have revealed the potential collaboration of other helper T cells and their cytokines in this process. Th17 cell may have a role in severe asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD. Interleukin (IL-9-producing subset called Th9 cell, Th22 cells which primarily secrete IL-22, IL-13 and tumor necrosis factor-α and Th25 cells via producing IL-25 are believed to be important for initiating allergic reactions and developing airway inflammation. Cytokines are important in asthma and play a critical role in orchestrating the allergic inflammatory response, although the precise role of each cytokine remains to be determined. The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge about the possible roles of newly identified helper T cells derived cytokines (IL-9, 17, 22, 25 and IL-33 in asthma. The potential therapeutic applications emerging from the roles of these cytokines will be discussed as well.

The dichotomous pattern of IL-12r and IL-23R expression elucidates the role of IL-12 and IL-23 in inflammation.

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Gaëlle Chognard

Full Text Available IL-12 and IL-23 cytokines respectively drive Th1 and Th17 type responses. Yet, little is known regarding the biology of these receptors. As the IL-12 and IL-23 receptors share a common subunit, it has been assumed that these receptors are co-expressed. Surprisingly, we find that the expression of each of these receptors is restricted to specific cell types, in both mouse and human. Indeed, although IL-12Rβ2 is expressed by NK cells and a subset of γδ T cells, the expression of IL-23R is restricted to specific T cell subsets, a small number of B cells and innate lymphoid cells. By exploiting an IL-12- and IL-23-dependent mouse model of innate inflammation, we demonstrate an intricate interplay between IL-12Rβ2 NK cells and IL-23R innate lymphoid cells with respectively dominant roles in the regulation of systemic versus local inflammatory responses. Together, these findings support an unforeseen lineage-specific dichotomy in the in vivo role of both the IL-12 and IL-23 pathways in pathological inflammatory states, which may allow more accurate dissection of the roles of these receptors in chronic inflammatory diseases in humans.

Role of periostin, FENO, IL-13, lebrikzumab, other IL-13 antagonist and dual IL-4/IL-13 antagonist in asthma.

Science.gov (United States)

Agrawal, Swati; Townley, Robert G

2014-02-01

Asthma markedly diminishes quality of life due to limited activity, absences from work or school and hospitalizations. Patients with severe asthma which are not controlled despite taking effective therapy are most in need of new treatment approaches. IL-13 was demonstrated as 'central mediator of allergic asthma'. IL-13 has been implicated in the pathogenesis of asthma, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and COPD. IL-13 levels in the sputum and bronchial biopsy samples remain elevated in severe asthma despite the use of inhaled and systemic corticosteroids. Thus, IL-13 is a mediator involved in corticosteroid resistance. Periostin enhances profibrotic TGF-β signaling in subepithelial fibrosis associated with asthma. IL-13 induces bronchial epithelial cells to secrete periostin. Periostin may be a biomarker for Th2 induced airway inflammation. Lebrikizumab is a monoclonal antibody against IL-13. Lebrikizumab improved lung function in asthmatics who were symptomatic despite treatment with long acting beta agonist and inhaled corticosteroids and provided benefit in the treatment of severe uncontrolled asthma. Lebrikizumab block IL-13 signaling through the IL-13Rα1/IL-4Rα receptor. There was a larger reduction in FENO in the high periostin subgroup than in the low periostin subgroup (34.4 vs 4.3%). Serum CCL17, CCL13 and total IgE levels decreased in the lebrikizumab group.

10 volti per la Liberazione. Una mostra per le strade della città

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Margherita Becchetti

2013-09-01

Full Text Available Nel saggio si dà conto delle vicende che hanno segnato “10 volti per la Liberazione”, mostra diffusa nelle strade di Parma, allestita in occasione del 25 aprile 2013 dal Centro studi movimenti con sagome a grandezza naturale di alcuni protagonisti della lotta partigiana. L’autrice affronta i problemi incontrati nel corso dell’allestimento e le reazioni che l’iniziativa ha suscitato, elementi che investono direttamente la riflessione storiografica avendo a che vedere con l’uso pubblico della storia, con il rapporto tra memoria pubblica e privata e con il ruolo rivestito dagli storici nella costruzione della memoria collettiva.

“Il vero terremoto arriva adesso”: il ruolo dello psicologo nella fase di smantellamento dei campi

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Catia Di Domenica

2011-06-01

Full Text Available The present article describes the intervention implemented by the psychologists during the earthquake emergency in Abruzzo, in 2009. Specifically, it focuses on on what they did in close collaboration with the Civil Protection during the taking down of the camps of Monticchio 1 and 2 and Paganica 5. We expand on the importance of communication in emergency situations and on the possible causes of confusion in communication and its effects. We reflect on the reasons at the basis of the tensions and the ambivalent emotions felt both by the population and the workers, emphasizing the importance of the mutual recognition of the respective roles by the different forces involved and hoping for the institution of consolidated intervention practices.

IL-5 and IL-5 receptor in asthma

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ATC Kotsimbos

1997-12-01

Full Text Available Eosinophils, along with mast cells are key cells involved in the innate immune response against parasitic infection whereas the adaptive immune response is largely dependent on lymphocytes. In chronic parasitic disease and in chronic allergic disease, IL-5 is predominantly a T cell derived cytokine which is particularly important for the terminal differentiation, activation and survival of committed eosinophil precursors. The human IL-5 gene is located on chromosome 5 in a gene cluster that contains the evolutionary related IL-4 family of cytokine genes. The human IL-5 receptor complex is a heterodimer consisting of a unique a subunit (predominantly expressed on eosinophils and a beta subunit which is shared between the receptors for IL-3 & GM-CSF (more widely expressed. The a subunit is required for ligand-specific binding whereas association with the beta subunit results in increased binding affinity. The alternative splicing of the alphaIL-5R gene which contains 14 exons can yield several alphaIL-5R isoforms including a membrane-anchored isoform (alphaIL-5Rm and a soluble isoform (alphaIL-5Rs. Cytokines such as IL-5 produce specific and non-specific cellular responses through specific cell membrane receptor mediated activation of intracellular signal transduction pathways which, to a large part, regulate gene expression. The major intracellular signal transduction mechanism is activation of non-receptor associated tyrosine kinases including JAK and MAP kinases which can then transduce signals via a novel family of transcriptional factors named signal transducers and activators of transcription (STATS. JAK2, STAT1 and STAT 5 appear to be particularly important in IL-5 mediated eosinophil responses. Asthma is characterized by episodic airways obstruction, increased bronchial responsiveness, and airway inflammation. Several studies have shown an association between the number of activated T cells and eosinophils in the airways and abnormalities

[Trattamento farmacologico del disturbo da uso di alcol. Evidenze scientifiche].

Science.gov (United States)

Attilia, Fabio; Perciballi, Roberta; Rotondo, Claudia; Capriglione, Ida; Iannuzzi, Silvia; Attilia, Maria Luisa; Vitali, Mario; Alessandrini, Giovanni; Scamporrino, Maria Concetta Marcella; Fiore, Marco; Ceccanti, Mauro

2018-01-01

RIASSUNTO. La terapia farmacologica nei pazienti con disturbo da uso di alcol riveste un ruolo centrale nel progetto terapeutico, altamente contestualizzato in un approccio multidisciplinare. Sebbene i trattamenti non farmacologici per la dipendenza da alcol risultino ben strutturati e in continua evoluzione, dal punto di vista medico le possibilità di intervento sono realmente ristrette, con poche molecole a disposizione approvate per il disturbo da uso di alcol: nello specifico, l'acamprostato, il naltrexone e, più recentemente, il nalmefene tra gli anticraving; il disulfiram tra gli avversivanti. Nuovi approcci sperimentali stanno cercando di ampliare tale gamma attraverso l'utilizzo di farmaci off-label. Evidenze scientifiche devono supportare l'indicazione terapeutica, quest'ultima deve dimostrarsi "cucita" sulle esigenze del paziente e sulle comorbilità presenti tenendo conto del profilo bio-psico-sociale individuale. Fondamentale risulta il follow-up per valutare la ritenzione in trattamento e il monitoraggio degli outcome alcologici.

Allergic Rhinitis and Its Relationship with IL-10, IL-17, TGF-β, IFN-γ, IL 22, and IL-35

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P. Bayrak Degirmenci

2018-01-01

Full Text Available Background. We aimed in our study to research the role of new cytokines such as IL-35, IL-22, and IL-17 that may form a target for novel treatment approaches. Methods. IL-10, IL-17, TGF-β, IFN-γ, IL-22, and IL-35 serum levels of allergic rhinitis (AR patients were measured using ELISA method. Allergic sensitization was demonstrated by the skin prick test. Patients only with olive tree sensitivity were evaluated for seasonal AR (SAR. Patients only with mite sensitivity were included in the study for perennial AR (PAR. AR clinic severity was demonstrated by the nasal symptom scores (NSS. Results. In total, 65 AR patients (patient group, having 31 PAR and 34 SAR patients, and 31 healthy individuals (control group participated in the study. Cytokine levels between the patient group and the control group were compared; IL-17 (p=0.038, IL-22 (p=0.001, and TGF-β (p=0.031 were detected as high in the patient group, and IFN-γ (p<0.001 was detected as low in the patient group. When correlation analysis was made between age, gender, prick test result, NSS, AR duration, and cytokine levels in the patient group, a negative correlation was detected only between IFN-γ (p=0.032/r=−0.266 level and NSS. Conclusions. Accompanied by the literature information, these results made us think that T cell subgroups and cytokines have an important role in AR immunopathogenesis. It is thought that future studies to be conducted relating to this subject will form new targets in treatment.

Implementation of grid-connected to/from off-grid transference for micro-grid inverters

OpenAIRE

Heredero Peris, Daniel; Chillón Antón, Cristian; Pages Gimenez, Marc; Gross, Gabriel Igor; Montesinos Miracle, Daniel

2013-01-01

This paper presents the transfer of a microgrid converter from/to on-grid to/from off-grid when the converter is working in two different modes. In the first transfer presented method, the converter operates as a Current Source Inverter (CSI) when on-grid and as a Voltage Source Inverter (VSI) when off-grid. In the second transfer method, the converter is operated as a VSI both, when operated on-grid and off-grid. The two methods are implemented successfully in a real pla...

Gli usi sociali e politici dell’arte contemporanea fra pratiche di partecipazione e di resistenza

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Ivan Bargna

2013-10-01

Full Text Available Se la produzione, circolazione e fruizione di immagini e oggetti esteticamente elaborati ha sempre giocato, sia pur in maniera e misura diversa a seconda dei tempi e dei luoghi, un ruolo importante nella creazione e disarticolazione dei legami sociali, oggi tutto ciò avviene secondo modalità peculiari e inedite che riconfigurano quello che è il campo di studi di un’antropologia estetica e dell’arte.

Photovoltaic Grid-Connected Modeling and Characterization Based on Experimental Results

Science.gov (United States)

Humada, Ali M.; Hojabri, Mojgan; Sulaiman, Mohd Herwan Bin; Hamada, Hussein M.; Ahmed, Mushtaq N.

2016-01-01

A grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) system operates under fluctuated weather condition has been modeled and characterized based on specific test bed. A mathematical model of a small-scale PV system has been developed mainly for residential usage, and the potential results have been simulated. The proposed PV model based on three PV parameters, which are the photocurrent, IL, the reverse diode saturation current, Io, the ideality factor of diode, n. Accuracy of the proposed model and its parameters evaluated based on different benchmarks. The results showed that the proposed model fitting the experimental results with high accuracy compare to the other models, as well as the I-V characteristic curve. The results of this study can be considered valuable in terms of the installation of a grid-connected PV system in fluctuated climatic conditions. PMID:27035575

Neutralità della scuola e ruolo dei genitori nelle attività extra-scolastiche

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Daniele Ferrari

2011-12-01

Full Text Available Il contributo è stato sottoposto alla valutazione del Prof. Francesco Margiotta Broglio, che ne ha attestato la scientificità e l’originalità. SOMMARIO: 1. Introduzione – 2. Ordine pubblico, laicità, principio di non discriminazione, libertà di coscienza, libertà di religione e istruzione pubblica: un complesso quadro costituzionale – 3. Il genitore-accompagnatore può essere considerato un funzionario pubblico di fatto? – 4. Le fonti internazionali ed europee.

Smart grid

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Choi, Dong Bae

2001-11-01

This book describes press smart grid from basics to recent trend. It is divided into ten chapters, which deals with smart grid as green revolution in energy with introduction, history, the fields, application and needed technique for smart grid, Trend of smart grid in foreign such as a model business of smart grid in foreign, policy for smart grid in U.S.A, Trend of smart grid in domestic with international standard of smart grid and strategy and rood map, smart power grid as infrastructure of smart business with EMS development, SAS, SCADA, DAS and PQMS, smart grid for smart consumer, smart renewable like Desertec project, convergence IT with network and PLC, application of an electric car, smart electro service for realtime of electrical pricing system, arrangement of smart grid.

GridCom, Grid Commander: graphical interface for Grid jobs and data management

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Galaktionov, V.V.

2011-01-01

GridCom - the software package for maintenance of automation of access to means of distributed system Grid (jobs and data). The client part, executed in the form of Java-applets, realises the Web-interface access to Grid through standard browsers. The executive part Lexor (LCG Executor) is started by the user in UI (User Interface) machine providing performance of Grid operations

Il nucleo terrestre: il cuore magnetico della Terra

OpenAIRE

De Santis, A.

2006-01-01

Il campo magnetico terrestre è una proprietà intrinseca del nostro pianeta e di altri oggetti del sistema solare. Il Sole stesso possiede un forte campo magnetico che si inverte quasi ciclicamente ogni 10-11 anni; tale comportamento è visibile attraverso la medesima ciclicità delle macchie solari che denotano sulla superficie l’intensa attività magnetica della nostra stella. Il campo magnetico terrestre è importantissimo per la vita sulla Terra. Esso protegge il pianeta dalle p...

IL-17A, IL-17RC polymorphisms and IL17 plasma levels in Tunisian patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Science.gov (United States)

Chahbi, Mayssa; Haouami, Youssra; Sfar, Imen; Abdelmoula, Leila; Ben Abdallah, Taieb; Gorgi, Yousr

2018-01-01

Background Interleukin-17 (IL-17), a cytokine mainly secreted by Th17 cells, seems to play a significant role in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Functional genetic polymorphisms in IL-17 and its receptor genes can influence either qualitatively or quantitatively their functions. Therefore, we aimed to study the impact of IL17-A and IL17RC polymorphisms on plasma level of IL-17 and RA susceptibility and severity. Methods In this context, IL-17A*rs2275913 and IL-17RC*rs708567 polymorphisms were investigated together with the quantification of IL17 plasma level in 115 RA patients and 91 healthy control subjects matched in age, sex and ethnic origin. Results There were no statistically significant associations between IL-17A and IL-17RC studied polymorphisms and RA susceptibility. In contrast, IL-17A plasma levels were significantly higher in patients (55.07 pg/ml) comparatively to controls (4.75 pg/ml), p<10E-12. A ROC curve was used to evaluate the performance of plasma IL-17 in detecting RA. Given 100% specificity, the highest sensitivity of plasma IL-17A was 61.7% at a cut-off value of 18.25 pg/ml; p < 10E-21, CI = [0.849–0.939]. Analytic results showed that the IgM-rheumatoid factor and anti-CCP antibodies were significantly less frequent in patients with the IL-17RC*A/A genotype than those carrying *G/G and *G/A genotypes; p = 0.013 and p = 0.015, respectively. Otherwise, IL-17 plasma levels’ analysis showed a significant association with the activity of RA (DAS28≥5.1 = 74.71 pg/ml vs. DAS28<5.1 = 11.96 pg/ml), p<10E-6. Conclusion IL-17A*rs2275913 (G/A) and IL-17RC*rs708567 (G/A) polymorphisms did not seem to influence RA susceptibility in Tunisian population. This result agrees with those reported previously. Plasma IL-17A level seems to be predictive of severe RA occurrence. PMID:29584788

Genetic polymorphism of interleukin-1A (IL-1A), IL-1B, and IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RN) and prostate cancer risk.

Science.gov (United States)

Xu, Hua; Ding, Qiang; Jiang, Hao-Wen

2014-01-01

We aimed to investigate the associations between polymorphisms of interleukin-1A (IL-1A), IL-1B, and IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RN) and prostate cancer (PCa) risk. A comprehensive search for articles of MEDLINE and EMBASE databases and bibliographies of retrieved articles published up to August 3, 2014 was performed. Methodological quality assessment of the trials was based on a standard quality scoring system. The meta-analysis was performed using STATA 12.0. We included 9 studies (1 study for IL-1A, 5 studies for IL-1B, and 3 studies for IL-1RN), and significant association was found between polymorphisms of IL-1B-511 (rs16944) as well as IL-1B-31 (rs1143627) and PCa risk. IL-1B-511 (rs16944) polymorphism was significantly associated with PCa risk in homozygote and recessive models, as well as allele contrast (TT vs CC: OR, 0.74; 95%CI, 0.58-0.94; P=0.012; TT vs TC+CC; OR, 0.79; 95%CI, 0.63-0.98; P=0.033; T vs C: OR, 0.86; 95%CI, 0.77-0.96; P=0.008). The association between IL-1B-31 (rs1143627) polymorphism and PCa risk was weakly significant under a heterozygote model (OR, 1.35; 95%CI, 1.00-1.80; P=0.047). Sequence variants in IL-1B-511 (rs16944) and IL-1B-31 (rs1143627) are significantly associated with PCa risk, which provides additional novel evidence that proinflammatory cytokines and inflammation play an important role in the etiology of PCa.

Campania: territorio e città di fronte alla sfida della logistica

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Giuseppe Mazzeo

2010-07-01

Full Text Available All’interno del sistema territoriale meridionale la Regione Campania si presenta come un polo importante nel settore del trasporto e dello smistamento delle merci. Questo ruolo si è venuto rinforzando in seguito alla realizzazione di infrastrutture dedicate alla logistica, connesse ad infrastrutture di supporto. Il sistema campano presenta punte di eccellenza di livello nazionale che possono incentivare il ruolo della Regione in questo settore, ma presenta anche fattori negativi che possono rallentare il decollo del settore. Si fa riferimento alle strozzature infrastrutturali e gestionali che ne inceppano l’efficienza, ma anche alla debolezza del sistema produttivo regionale che non garantisce una massa critica locale alla logistica campana. Un terzo aspetto è la mancanza di un chiaro disegno di programmazione degli investimenti e una maggiore chiarezza dei ruoli da assegnare alle diverse iniziative, nate soprattutto sulla base di spinte localistiche non coordinate. Il paper analizza la situazione della logistica territoriale in Campania e delle sue interrelazioni territoriali individuando punti di forza e di debolezza e potenziali fattori evolutivi. Gli aspetti della logistica che vengono affrontati sono di tipo territoriale e si differenziano da quelli della logistica urbana per la quantità di merci movimentate e per la concentrazione in pochi poli strategici, in quanto queste piattaforme logistiche richiedono attrezzature specializzate e ampi spazi per la movimentazione e il deposito. L’analisi del rapporto tra territorio e logistica individua quelli che sono i principali elementi di interconnessione e, spesso, di crisi, nell’uso dello spazio fisico, in ragione degli obiettivi a volte divergenti tra il governo del territorio ed i soggetti economici. Si passa successivamente ad analizzare lo stato del movimento merci in relazione alla portualità mediterranea e lo stato del sistema logistico campano (non ancora definito in tutte le

Cord Blood Cells Responses to IL2, IL7 and IL15 Cytokines for mTOR Expression

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Anahita Mohammadian

2017-04-01

Full Text Available Purpose: Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTORis important in hematopoiesis and affect cell growth,differentiation and survival. Although previous studies were identified the effect of cytokines on the mononuclear cells development however the cytokines effect on mTOR in cord blood mononuclear cells was unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate mTOR expression in cord blood mononuclear and cord blood stem cells (CD34+ cells in culture conditions for lymphoid cell development. Methods: Isolation of The mononuclear cells (MNCs from umbilical cord blood were done with use of Ficollpaque density gradient. We evaluated cultured cord blood mononuclear and CD34+ cells in presece of IL2, IL7 and IL15 at distinct time points during 21 days by using flow cytometry. In this study, we presented the role of IL2, IL7 and IL15 on the expression of mTOR in cord blood cells. Results: mTOR expression were increased in peresence of IL2, IL7 and IL15 in day 14 and afterword reduced. However in persence of IL2 and IL15 expression of mTOR significantly reduced. mTOR expression in CD34+ cells decreased significantly from day7 to day 21 in culture. Conclusion: cytokines play important role in mTOR expression during hematopoiesis and development of cord blood mononuclear cells.

Enabling Campus Grids with Open Science Grid Technology

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Weitzel, Derek; Fraser, Dan; Pordes, Ruth; Bockelman, Brian; Swanson, David

2011-01-01

The Open Science Grid is a recognized key component of the US national cyber-infrastructure enabling scientific discovery through advanced high throughput computing. The principles and techniques that underlie the Open Science Grid can also be applied to Campus Grids since many of the requirements are the same, even if the implementation technologies differ. We find five requirements for a campus grid: trust relationships, job submission, resource independence, accounting, and data management. The Holland Computing Center's campus grid at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln was designed to fulfill the requirements of a campus grid. A bridging daemon was designed to bring non-Condor clusters into a grid managed by Condor. Condor features which make it possible to bridge Condor sites into a multi-campus grid have been exploited at the Holland Computing Center as well.

Assessment of grid optimisation measures for the German transmission grid using open source grid data

Science.gov (United States)

Böing, F.; Murmann, A.; Pellinger, C.; Bruckmeier, A.; Kern, T.; Mongin, T.

2018-02-01

The expansion of capacities in the German transmission grid is a necessity for further integration of renewable energy sources into the electricity sector. In this paper, the grid optimisation measures ‘Overhead Line Monitoring’, ‘Power-to-Heat’ and ‘Demand Response in the Industry’ are evaluated and compared against conventional grid expansion for the year 2030. Initially, the methodical approach of the simulation model is presented and detailed descriptions of the grid model and the used grid data, which partly originates from open-source platforms, are provided. Further, this paper explains how ‘Curtailment’ and ‘Redispatch’ can be reduced by implementing grid optimisation measures and how the depreciation of economic costs can be determined considering construction costs. The developed simulations show that the conventional grid expansion is more efficient and implies more grid relieving effects than the evaluated grid optimisation measures.

Infertilità, procreazione medicalmente assistita, prematurità

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Francesca Natascia Vasta

2016-08-01

Full Text Available Il lavoro descrive il filo rosso che collega l’esperienza della coppia che riceve una diagnosi di sterilità o infertilità, il percorso relativo alla procreazione medicalmente assistita e il possibile esito di questo percorso in un parto pretermine, con conseguente ricovero del neonato in un reparto di Terapia Intensiva Neonatale. Il vertice da cui viene esaminato questo filo conduttore è quello della sofferenza identitaria femminile, vissuta dalla donna prima del concepimento e dalla madre del piccolo ricoverato poi. Viene evidenziato il ruolo che può svolgere lo psicoterapeuta con esperienza specifica sul campo in un apposito spazio di prevenzione e cura di tali ferite identitarie e di come questa funzione psicologica a sostegno della funzione genitoriale possa assumere maggiore efficacia se in concomitanza sussiste un’équipe di cura integrata che veda i medici e il personale sanitario formato a un dialogo empatico e competente sul piano della relazione con la coppia che li incontra prima e dopo il concepimento. Un caso clinico esemplifica il discorso.

Aloin Inhibits Interleukin (IL)-1β-Stimulated IL-8 Production in KB Cells.

Science.gov (United States)

Na, Hee Sam; Song, Yu Ri; Kim, Seyeon; Heo, Jun-Young; Chung, Hae-Young; Chung, Jin

2016-06-01

Interleukin (IL)-1β, which is elevated in oral diseases including gingivitis, stimulates epithelial cells to produce IL-8 and perpetuate inflammatory responses. This study investigates stimulatory effects of salivary IL-1β in IL-8 production and determines if aloin inhibits IL-1β-stimulated IL-8 production in epithelial cells. Saliva was collected from volunteers to determine IL-1β and IL-8 levels. Samples from volunteers were divided into two groups: those with low and those with high IL-1β levels. KB cells were stimulated with IL-1β or saliva with or without IL-1 receptor agonist or specific mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitors. IL-8 production was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). MAPK protein expression involved in IL-1β-induced IL-8 secretion was detected by Western blot. KB cells were pretreated with aloin, and its effect on IL-1β-induced IL-8 production was examined by ELISA and Western blot analysis. Saliva with high IL-1β strongly stimulated IL-8 production in KB cells, and IL-1 receptor agonist significantly inhibited IL-8 production. Low IL-1β-containing saliva did not increase IL-8 production. IL-1β treatment of KB cells induced activation of MAPK signaling molecules as well as nuclear factor-kappa B. IL-1β-induced IL-8 production was decreased by p38 and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) inhibitor treatment. Aloin pretreatment inhibited IL-1β-induced IL-8 production in a dose-dependent manner and inhibited activation of the p38 and ERK signaling pathway. Finally, aloin pretreatment also inhibited saliva-induced IL-8 production. Results indicated that IL-1β in saliva stimulates epithelial cells to produce IL-8 and that aloin effectively inhibits salivary IL-1β-induced IL-8 production by mitigating the p38 and ERK pathway. Therefore, aloin may be a good candidate for modulating oral inflammatory diseases.

IL-1 family members IL-18 and IL-33 upregulate the inflammatory potential of differentiated human Th1 and Th2 cultures

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Blom, Lars; Poulsen, Lars K.

2012-01-01

The IL-1 family members IL-1ß, IL-18, and IL-33 are potent cytokines in relationship to amplifying the CD4(+) T cell cytokine production. To evaluate their impact on in vitro-differentiated human Th1 and Th2 cultures, such cultures were established from naive T cells, purified from healthy blood...... donors, and reactivated in the presence of IL-1ß, IL-18, or IL-33. Interestingly, we observe modifying responses in Th1 and Th2 cultures induced by IL-18 or IL-33 but not by IL-1ß, both contributing to amplify production of IL-5, IL-13, and IFN-¿. IL-18 or IL-33 stimulation of Th1 cultures resulted...... in increased IFN-¿ and IL-13 production concurrent with reduced IL-10 gene transcription and secretion even though Th1 cultures, in contrast to IL-18Ra, had low ST2L expression. Furthermore, adding IL-18 to Th1 cultures promoted Tbet mRNA expression and production. Th2 cultures stimulated with IL-18 or IL-33...

Enabling campus grids with open science grid technology

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Weitzel, Derek [Nebraska U.; Bockelman, Brian [Nebraska U.; Swanson, David [Nebraska U.; Fraser, Dan [Argonne; Pordes, Ruth [Fermilab

2011-01-01

The Open Science Grid is a recognized key component of the US national cyber-infrastructure enabling scientific discovery through advanced high throughput computing. The principles and techniques that underlie the Open Science Grid can also be applied to Campus Grids since many of the requirements are the same, even if the implementation technologies differ. We find five requirements for a campus grid: trust relationships, job submission, resource independence, accounting, and data management. The Holland Computing Center's campus grid at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln was designed to fulfill the requirements of a campus grid. A bridging daemon was designed to bring non-Condor clusters into a grid managed by Condor. Condor features which make it possible to bridge Condor sites into a multi-campus grid have been exploited at the Holland Computing Center as well.

Dirigenti “esterni”, trattamento economico accessorio e parità di trattamento

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Marina Nicolosi

2012-01-01

Full Text Available Il saggio affronta la questione della parità di trattamento tra “dirigenti esterni”, posti in posizione di comando o di assegnazione temporanea presso altra amministrazione, e dirigenti di ruolo, con particolare riferimento al trattamento economico accessorio e alla cosiddetta parte fissa della retribuzione di posizione, che in molti contratti d'area costituisce parte del trattamento economico fondamentale, perdendo le caratteristiche prescritte dall'articolo 24 del d.lgs. n. 165/2001.

Studio del comportamento di agenti di contrasto in campi ultracustici per tecniche di ecografia diagnostica

OpenAIRE

BIAGIONI, ANGELO

2011-01-01

Il presente lavoro di ricerca è stato articolato intorno a temi attinenti l’ingegneria biomedica, riguardando, in particolare, lo studio del comportamento di agenti di contrasto in campi ultracustici per tecniche di ecografia diagnostica. Nell’ambito di tale settore scientifico, un ruolo di fondamentale importanza è svolto dalla diagnostica medica per immagini e in particolare dalle tecniche ecografiche. Queste ultime rappresentano un ottimo compromesso tra la pericolosità per l’organismo e l...

Strumenti Urbani. Tecnologie mobili come dispositivi di improvvisazione corporea

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Elena Biserna

2013-06-01

Full Text Available Dal Walkman ai lettori MP3, negli ultimi decenni le tecnologie audio portatili sono prepotentemente entrate in abitudini e rituali quotidiani, assumendo un ruolo sostanziale nella cultura uditiva e urbana ma anche, e soprattutto, nelle nostre modalità di attraversare gli spazi. L’uso di questi objets nomades (Attali 1977 interviene non solo sulle forme di consumo musicale, ma anche sul rapporto con lo spazio, con il contesto attraversato

Pencil and mouse. Drawing in the digital era

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Giovanni Federle

2010-12-01

Full Text Available In questo contributo si considera il ruolo che ha oggi, nella scuola secondaria dopo la riforma, l’insegnamento del disegno a mano libera e con strumenti e i problemi che si pongono nel passaggio dal disegno analogico al disegno digitale. Dalla sintesi delle ricerche sviluppate nell’ultimo decennio si possono cogliere alcune indicazioni per la didattica del disegno. Rimane aperta la questione di un insegnamento laboratoriale che non sia istruzionale.

la carnitina nell'anziano:prospettive terapeutiche

OpenAIRE

Tsianaka, Christina

2012-01-01

Tra tutte le sostanze la cui concentrazione diminuisce nell invecchiamento, la carnitina riveste un ruolo di importanza fondamentale, data la sua funzione nella produzione di energia. La somministrazione esogena di L-carnitina ed L-acetil-carnitina può consentire la correzione delle funzioni immunologiche e il miglioramento delle funzioni energetiche. L-carnitina determina una riduzione della massa grassa, un aumento della massa muscolare ed inoltre agevola l attività fisica riducendo la fat...

Identificazione, caratterizzazione ed industrializzazione di ceppi di Streptococcus thermophilus per la produzione di yogurt

OpenAIRE

D'Alonges, Sara

2013-01-01

Il contesto globale del comparto agro-alimentare richiede ad oggi una ricerca continua per assicurare qualità e sicurezza degli alimenti. La produzione moderna di alimenti richiede elevato grado di standardizzazione, particolarmente la produzione gli alimenti fermentati che include un processo biotecnologico in cui la componente biotica gioca un ruolo fondamentale Di qui la necessità disporre di un’ampia gamma di microrganismi atti alla conduzione del processo fermentativo in modo da im...

Purification, crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction analysis of the IL-20-IL-20R1-IL-20R2 complex

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Logsdon, Naomi J.; Allen, Christopher E.; Rajashankar, Kanagalaghatta R.; Walter, Mark R. (Cornell); (UAB)

2012-02-08

Interleukin-20 (IL-20) is an IL-10-family cytokine that regulates innate and adaptive immunity in skin and other tissues. In addition to protecting the host from various external pathogens, dysregulated IL-20 signaling has been shown to contribute to the pathogenesis of human psoriasis. IL-20 signals through two cell-surface receptor heterodimers, IL-20R1-IL-20R2 and IL-22R1-IL-20R2. In this report, crystals of the IL-20-IL-20R1-IL-20R2 ternary complex have been grown from polyethylene glycol solutions. The crystals belonged to space group P4{sub 1}2{sub 1}2 or P4{sub 3}2{sub 1}2, with unit-cell parameters a = 111, c = 135 {angstrom}, and diffracted X-rays to 3 {angstrom} resolution. The crystallographic asymmetric unit contains one IL-20-IL-20R1-IL-20R2 complex, corresponding to a solvent content of approximately 54%.

Study on the changes of serum IL-2, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF levels in patients with diabetic nephrosis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Qin Wenjing

2005-01-01

Objective: To investigate the changes of serum IL-2, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF levels in patients with diabetic nephrosis. Methods: Serum IL-2, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF levels were measured with RIA in 38 patients with diabetic nephrosis and 36 controls. Results: Serum levels of IL-6, IL-8 and TNF were significantly higher in patients with diabetic nephrosis than those in controls (P<0.01), but serum IL-2 levels were significantly lower in the patients (P<0.01). Conclusion: These cytokines participated in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephrosis. Monitoring the changes of their serum levels was helpful for the management of the disease. (authors)

Processi d’integrazione e reti associative

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Simone Digennaro

2013-04-01

Full Text Available Il lavoro intende analizzare il ruolo delle reti associative nei processi d’integrazione delle comunità dei migranti che, in maniera sempre più marcata, alimentano un intenso flusso d’immigrazione diffusosi su tutto il territorio italiano. Nel farlo si avvarrà dei dati provenienti dal progetto «Diritti in Campo: Sport per tutti in una società multiculturale» condotto nel biennio 2011-2012 dall’Unione Italiana Sportpertutti (UISP nell’ambito dei finanziamenti stanziati dalla legge 383 del 2000. L’associazionismo sportivo è stato utilizzato come punto di riferimento di strategie e politiche atte a promuovere processi d’inserimento dei migranti all’interno della comunità di accoglienza e a superare le barriere che impediscono il concretizzarsi di una società capace di saper dialogare e di essere in grado di accogliere la diversità culturale.

Expression of IL-18, IL-18 Binding Protein, and IL-18 Receptor by Normal and Cancerous Human Ovarian Tissues: Possible Implication of IL-18 in the Pathogenesis of Ovarian Carcinoma

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Liat Medina

2014-01-01

Full Text Available Proinflammatory cytokine IL-18 has been shown to be elevated in the sera of ovarian carcinoma patients. The aim of the study was to examine the levels and cellular origin of IL-18, IL-18 binding protein, and IL-18 receptor in normal and cancerous ovarian tissues. Ovarian tissue samples were examined by immunohistochemical staining for IL-18, IL-18BP, and IL-18R and mRNA of these cytokines was analyzed with semiquantitative PT-PCR. IL-18 levels were significantly higher in cancerous ovarian tissues (P=0.0007, IL-18BP levels were significantly higher in normal ovarian tissues (P=0.04, and the ratio of IL-18/IL-18BP was significantly higher in cancerous ovarian tissues (P=0.036. Cancerous ovarian tissues expressed significantly higher IL-18 mRNA levels (P=0.025, while there was no difference in the expression of IL-18BP mRNA and IL-18R mRNA between cancerous and normal ovarian tissues. IL-18 and IL-18BP were expressed dominantly in the epithelial cells of both cancerous and normal ovarian tissues, while IL-18R was expressed dominantly in the epithelial cells of cancerous ovarian tissues but expressed similarly in the epithelial and stromal cells of normal cancerous tissues. This study indicates a possible role of IL-18, IL-18BP, and IL-18R in the pathogenesis of epithelial ovarian carcinoma.

Gli incerti confini del cosmo dai buchi neri alle macchine del tempo

CERN Document Server

De Felice, Fernando

2000-01-01

Il libro mostra come la gravitazione abbia un ruolo determinante nei fenomeni cosmici che più ci impressionano, da quelli relativamente vicini alla nostra esperienza (come la formazione delle stelle) a quelli meno intuibili (come la formazione dei buchi neri), alla struttura dell'Universo nel suo insieme. Oltre a spiegare, in modo qualitativo, concetti come la geometria dello spazio-tempo, la relatività del tempo e i coni di luce, l'autore formula un'ipotesi innovativa tendente a spiegare l'origine della gravitazione e con essa quella dei fenomeni circondati ancora da un alone di mistero: la materia oscura dell'Universo e il destino della materia alla fine del collasso gravitazionale.

Clinical significance of changes of levels of serum IL-2, IL-8, IL-10 and gastrin in patients with chronic eczema

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Huang Haifeng; Bi Mingye; Shi Hejian

2009-01-01

Objective: To study the significance of changes of serum IL-2, IL-8, IL-10 and Gastrin levels in patients with chronic eczema. Methods: Serum levels of IL-2, IL-8, IL-10 and Gastrin were determined with RIA in 30 patients with chronic eczema and 30 controls. Results: The levels of serum IL-2 were significantly lower in the eczema patients than those in controls (P 0.05). Both serum IL-10 and Gastrin levels were significantly higher in the patients than those in controls (P<0.01). Conclusion: Determination of serum IL-2, IL-8, IL-10 and Gastrin levels in patients with chronic eczema would be of help in monitoring the disease process and outcome prediction. (authors)

Innovation and competitivity. The case of the districts of Faenza and Prato; Innovazione e competitivita'. Il caso dei distretti di Faenza e di Prato

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Traverso, A [ENEA, Funzione Centrale Studi, Centro Ricerche Casaccia, Rome (Italy)

2001-07-01

Market's globalization is quickly producing the review of the traditional and international competition orders. For this reason the industrial districts, which are the highest expression of an economic and productive tissue based on the small and medium enterprises, are forced to begin a new formulation of their own structural, organizational, technological and productive distinctive features. The object of this work is, at first, to explain the peculiarities of the distrectual events, and, consequently, to analyse the competitive situation and the future prospects of two italian highly specialized productive areas: the textile district of Prato and the ceramic territory of Faenza. A particular attention will be especially reserved on the role assumed by the innovative aspects (technological and organizational) which it can be noted in that transformation process of the main distrectual competitive paradigms. [Italian] La globalizzazione dei mercati sta velocemente imponendo una revisione delle tradizionali regole della competizione internazionale. Per questo motivo i distretti industriali, che sono la massima espressione di un tessuto economico e produttivo fondato sulla piccola e media impresa, sono stati costretti ad intraprendere un percorso di riformulazione delle proprie caratteristiche strutturali, organizzative, tecnologiche e produttive. Lo scopo di questo lavoro e' di illustrare, in un primo momento, i contorni del fenomeno distrettuale e, conseguentemente, di analizzare la situazione competitiva e le prospettive di sviluppo di due aree italiane fortemente specializzate dal punto di vista produttivo: il distretto tessile di Prato ed il comprensorio della ceramica di Faenza. Una particolare attenzione verra' riservata, nel corso dell'analisi, al ruolo assunto dagli aspetti innovativi (technologici ed innovativi) in questo processo di trasformazione dei principali paradigmi competitivi distrettuali.

Clinical significance of determination of some serum cytokines (IL-8, IL-10, IL-18, M-CSF) levels in patients with periodontitis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wei Dong; Zhang Xiaolei; Yang Chunxiu; Chen Guanghua

2008-01-01

Objective: To explore the significance of changes of serum IL-8, IL-10, IL-18 and M-CSF levels in patients with periodontitis. Methods: Serum levels of IL-8, IL-10, M-CSF (with RIA) and IL-18 (with ELISA) were measured in 55 patients with periodontitis both before and after treatment as well as in 35 controls. Results: Before treatment, serum levels of IL-8, IL-10, IL-18 and M-CSF were significantly higher in the patients than those in the controls (P<0.01). After one month of treatment, the serum IL-8, IL-10, IL-18 and M-CSF levels decreased somewhat, but were still significantly higher than those in controls (P<0.05). Conclusion: There was disturbance of immunomodulation in patients with periodontitis as expressed by the changes of several cytokines levels in the eourse of the diseases. (authors)

An Herculean Mind: il problematico ruolo di Locke come precursore dell’utilitarismo

OpenAIRE

Russo, Raffaele

2016-01-01

There are, apparently, many differences between the ethical theory of Locke and the next utilitarianism of Bentham, so much so that the explicit appreciations, that the same Bentham expressed about Locke in many occasions, seem surprising.This paper examines some of the most striking differences between the two philosophies, and it does not find in the moral philosophy of Locke elements that are incompatible with utilitarianism widely understood, so that one can see in Locke’s hedonistic empi...

GridCom, Grid Commander: graphical interface for Grid jobs and data management; GridCom, Grid Commander: graficheskij interfejs dlya raboty s zadachami i dannymi v gride

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Galaktionov, V V

2011-07-01

GridCom - the software package for maintenance of automation of access to means of distributed system Grid (jobs and data). The client part, executed in the form of Java-applets, realises the Web-interface access to Grid through standard browsers. The executive part Lexor (LCG Executor) is started by the user in UI (User Interface) machine providing performance of Grid operations

Relations Between Serum Essential Fatty Acids, Cytokines (IL-6 & IL ...

African Journals Online (AJOL)

The aim of this study was to investigate the relations between free radical generation, interleukins (IL-6 & IL-8), apoptotic marker soluble Fas (sFas), and the level of ... IL-6, IL-8 and sFas whereas serum fatty acid revealed that Linoleicacid (LA) and alpha linolenic acid (ALA) were significantly decreased in the studied cases .

Identification and Characterization of a Novel IL-4 Receptor α Chain (IL-4Rα Antagonist to Inhibit IL-4 Signalling

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Nayyar Ahmed

2015-05-01

Full Text Available Background/Aims: In recent times, allergy has become a financial, physical and psychological burden to the society as a whole. In allergic cascades, cytokine IL-4 binds to IL-4 receptor (IL-4R, consequently producing allergen-specific IgE antibodies by B cells. In addition, among other functions, IL-4 is also responsible for B and T cell proliferation and differentiation. Hence, characterization of novel antagonists that inhibit IL-4 signalling forms the overall aim of this study. Methods: Phage display was used to screen a random 12-mer synthetic peptide library with a human IL-4Rα to identify peptide candidates. Once identified, the peptides were commercially synthesized and used for in vitro immunoassays. Results: We have successfully used phage display to identify M13 phage clones that demonstrated specific binding to IL-4Rα. The peptide N1 was synthesized for use in ELISA, demonstrating significant binding to IL-4Rα and inhibiting interaction with cytokine IL-4. Furthermore, the peptide was tested in a transfected HEK-Blue IL-4 reporter cell line model, which produces alkaline phosphatase (AP. QUANTI-Blue, a substrate, breaks down in the presence of AP producing a blue coloration. Using this colorimetric analysis, >50% inhibition of IL-4 signalling was achieved. Conclusion: We have successfully identified and characterised a synthetic peptide antagonist against IL-4Rα, which effectively inhibits IL-4 interaction with the IL-4Rα in vitro. Since IL-4 interaction with IL-4Rα is a common pathway for many allergies, a prophylactic treatment can be devised by inhibiting this interaction for future treatment of allergies.

Progress in Grid Generation: From Chimera to DRAGON Grids

Science.gov (United States)

Liou, Meng-Sing; Kao, Kai-Hsiung

1994-01-01

Hybrid grids, composed of structured and unstructured grids, combines the best features of both. The chimera method is a major stepstone toward a hybrid grid from which the present approach is evolved. The chimera grid composes a set of overlapped structured grids which are independently generated and body-fitted, yielding a high quality grid readily accessible for efficient solution schemes. The chimera method has been shown to be efficient to generate a grid about complex geometries and has been demonstrated to deliver accurate aerodynamic prediction of complex flows. While its geometrical flexibility is attractive, interpolation of data in the overlapped regions - which in today's practice in 3D is done in a nonconservative fashion, is not. In the present paper we propose a hybrid grid scheme that maximizes the advantages of the chimera scheme and adapts the strengths of the unstructured grid while at the same time keeps its weaknesses minimal. Like the chimera method, we first divide up the physical domain by a set of structured body-fitted grids which are separately generated and overlaid throughout a complex configuration. To eliminate any pure data manipulation which does not necessarily follow governing equations, we use non-structured grids only to directly replace the region of the arbitrarily overlapped grids. This new adaptation to the chimera thinking is coined the DRAGON grid. The nonstructured grid region sandwiched between the structured grids is limited in size, resulting in only a small increase in memory and computational effort. The DRAGON method has three important advantages: (1) preserving strengths of the chimera grid; (2) eliminating difficulties sometimes encountered in the chimera scheme, such as the orphan points and bad quality of interpolation stencils; and (3) making grid communication in a fully conservative and consistent manner insofar as the governing equations are concerned. To demonstrate its use, the governing equations are

Il processo Eichmann. Il ruolo del diritto nella ridefinizione della memoria e dell’identità nazionale israeliana

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Alberto Scigliano

2013-08-01

Full Text Available This article aims to analyze the relations between the trial of Adolf Eichmann and the Israeli national identity. It analyzes a trial which has its roots in the ius gentium and continues until the reappropriation of the memory of the Holocaust by Israel. The trial of Nazi criminal represents the moment when the Jewish state integrates his national experience to the memory of the destruction of European Jewry during the Second World War. Through the trials against Eichmann and its consequences on the Israeli public opinion, Ben Gurion strove for a nationalist rewriting of the Holocaust. The role of justice and law is central to the development of the national identity of Israel, providing a renewed civil identity that makes Israel the ‘guardian’ of memory and shifting the focus from the classic themes of Zionism.

Functional Implications of the IL-23/IL-17 Immune Axis in Schizophrenia.

Science.gov (United States)

Debnath, Monojit; Berk, Michael

2017-12-01

The aetiology of schizophrenia seems to stem from complex interactions amongst environmental, genetic, metabolic, immunologic and oxidative components. Chronic low-grade inflammation has been persistently linked to schizophrenia, and this has primarily been based on the findings derived from Th1/Th2 cytokine balance. While the IL-23/IL-17 axis plays crucial role in the pathogenesis of several immune-mediated disorders, it has remained relatively unexplored in neuropsychiatric disorders. Altered levels of cytokines related to IL-23/IL-17 axis have been observed in schizophrenia patients in a few studies. In addition, other indirect factors known to confer schizophrenia risk like complement activation and altered gut microbiota are shown to modulate the IL-23/IL-17 axis. These preliminary observations provide crucial clues about the functional implications of IL-23/IL-17 axis in schizophrenia. In this review, an attempt has been made to highlight the biology of IL-23/IL-17 axis and its relevance to schizophrenia risk and pathogenesis. Given the pathogenic potential of the IL-23/IL-17 axis, therapeutic targeting of this axis may be a promising approach to benefit patients suffering from this devastating disorder.

Il servizio di EV-mobile ed i suoi utenti: un approccio metodologico all’analisi dei loro comportamenti

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Ugo Contino

2012-07-01

Full Text Available ItLa possibilità di accedere al Web mediante dispositivi mobili, ad esempio tablet o smartphone, ha comportato la creazione di ulteriori portali, semplificati, che consentono di diffondere contenuti ed informazione in maniera rapida ai propri utenti. Nel caso del servizio di Emeroteca Virtuale Mobile si è voluto ampliare la gamma dei servizi offerti all’utenza, includendo una piattaforma che fosse navigabile attraverso i browser disponibili nei moderni smart phone. L’analisi dei loro comportamenti ci ha permesso di verificare quanto gli utenti preferiscano i contesti mobili come ambienti di rapida verifica delle novità disponibili in Emeroteca, relativamente ai periodici di loro interesse (4 a 1 è infatti il rapporto tra la navigazione e la ricerca dei contenuti. Ciò chiarisce il ruolo che tale servizio sta assumendo nel contesto dell’Emeroteca, non alternativo a quello classico, ma, pur se ancora non privo di una sua connotazione sperimentale, certamente complementare a quest’ultimo.EnThe diffusion of the so called smart-phone and tablet among WEB users community caused a growth in the offering of specific portals, simplified comparing to the classic ones, but capable of a more direct and fast information flow towards their own users. Emeroteca Virtuale service too has been provided of a specific “mobile” portal dedicated to people having a smart-phone as a web access tool. Last two years usage data analysis on this service has revealed a peculiar behavior of Emeroteca Virtuale Mobile users: they tend to use the service as a rapid check of new entries in Emeroteca (issues or articles, specifically for those e-journals they are interested in (the ratio between browsing and search actions is 4 to 1. This clarifies better the role this “mobile” service is having versus the classical one: it is not an alternative to it, but a complementary way to get information from Emeroteca.

MICROARRAY IMAGE GRIDDING USING GRID LINE REFINEMENT TECHNIQUE

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

V.G. Biju

2015-05-01

Full Text Available An important stage in microarray image analysis is gridding. Microarray image gridding is done to locate sub arrays in a microarray image and find co-ordinates of spots within each sub array. For accurate identification of spots, most of the proposed gridding methods require human intervention. In this paper a fully automatic gridding method which enhances spot intensity in the preprocessing step as per a histogram based threshold method is used. The gridding step finds co-ordinates of spots from horizontal and vertical profile of the image. To correct errors due to the grid line placement, a grid line refinement technique is proposed. The algorithm is applied on different image databases and results are compared based on spot detection accuracy and time. An average spot detection accuracy of 95.06% depicts the proposed method’s flexibility and accuracy in finding the spot co-ordinates for different database images.

Servizi finanziari imputati e interdipendenze settoriali: un'analisi settoriale del ruolo del credito nel sistema economico. (Imputed bank services and sectoral interdependences: a structural analysis of the role of credit in the economy

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

C. BIANCHI

2013-12-01

Full Text Available I sistemi di contabilità nazionale in base alla metodologia SEC sono soliti comportarsi in modo da garantire l'impossibilità pratica di effettuare qualsiasi assegnazione significativa di servizi bancari imputati tra i singoli rami di attività economica.  Il presente lavoro mostra come questo vieta l'analisi strutturale del ruolo del credito nel sistema di interdipendenze. . L'analisi mette in evidenza la duplice natura del credito come contenuti a valore aggiunto altamente intermedio e alto. È in grado di influenzare forte su i costi di produzione degli altri rami, senza essere influenzato da loro. Queste proprietà conferiscono al settore bancario un potenziale molto elevato per l'inflazione.National accounts systems based on the SEC methodology are usually thought to comport the practical impossibility of carrying out any meaningful allocation of imputed bank services among the single branches of economic activity. As a consequence, the total value of the net interest earned by the credit system as a whole is considered as a cost entry and a negative component of added value in an ad-hoc additional industry, to be aggregated to the main credit one in the typical input-output analysis. The present work shows how this prohibits the structural analysis of the role of credit in the system of interdependencies. A method of is proposed in which imputed services of credit are distributed by branches, on the basis of existing statistics, proving valuable in assessing the significance of certain quantities of national accounts, such as operating results. The analysis highlights the dual nature of credit as highly intermediate and high value-added content. It is able to strongly influence the production costs of the other branches, without being influenced by them. These properties give the banking industry a very high potential for inflation. JEL: E51, G21

Psoriasis is not associated with IL-12p70/IL-12p40 production and IL12B promoter polymorphism

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Litjens, Nicolle H R; van der Plas, Mariena J A; Ravensbergen, Bep

2004-01-01

Psoriasis is a type-1 T cell-mediated, chronic inflammatory disease. Since interleukin (IL)-12p70 promotes the development of type-1 T cells, we investigated whether psoriasis is associated with an increased production of this cyctokine by blood cells. Results revealed that the production of IL-12p....... The frequencies of the various genotypes for the promoter region of the gene encoding IL-12p40 (IL12B) did not differ between psoriasis patients and controls. No association was observed between the various IL12B promoter genotypes and the LPS-stimulated production of IL-12p70 or IL-12p40 by blood cells. Together......, psoriasis is not associated with a promoter polymorphism in the IL12B gene nor with the production of IL-12p70 by LPS-stimulated blood cells....

Grid3: An Application Grid Laboratory for Science

CERN Multimedia

CERN. Geneva

2004-01-01

level services required by the participating experiments. The deployed infrastructure has been operating since November 2003 with 27 sites, a peak of 2800 processors, work loads from 10 different applications exceeding 1300 simultaneous jobs, and data transfers among sites of greater than 2 TB/day. The Grid3 infrastructure was deployed from grid level services provided by groups and applications within the collaboration. The services were organized into four distinct "grid level services" including: Grid3 Packaging, Monitoring and Information systems, User Authentication and the iGOC Grid Operatio...

Grid-connected to/from off-grid transference for micro-grid inverters

OpenAIRE

Heredero Peris, Daniel; Chillón Antón, Cristian; Pages Gimenez, Marc; Gross, Gabriel Igor; Montesinos Miracle, Daniel

2013-01-01

This paper compares two methods for controlling the on-line transference from connected to stand-alone mode and vice versa in converters for micro-grids. The first proposes a method where the converter changes from CSI (Current Source Inverter) in grid-connected mode to VSI (Voltage Source Inverter) in off-grid. In the second method, the inverter always works as a non-ideal voltage source, acting as VSI, using AC droop control strategy.

Fasting induces IL-1 resistance and free fatty acid-mediated up-regulation of IL-1R2 and IL-1RA

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

jenifer j joesting

2014-07-01

Full Text Available Objective: Weight loss is a near societal obsession and many diet programs use significant calorie restriction (CR including fasting/short term starvation to generate rapid effects. Fasting is also a well-recognized cause of immunosuppression especially within the innate immune system. In this study, we sought to determine if the IL-1 arm of the neuroimmune system was down-regulated by a 24 hr fast and how fasting might generate this effect. Design: Mice were allowed ad libitum access to food or had food withheld for 24 hrs. Expression of the endogenous IL-1 antagonists IL-1 receptor type 2 (IL-1R2 and IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA were determined as were sickness behaviors before and after IL-1 administration.Results: Fasting markedly increased gene expression of IL-1R2 (83-fold in adipose tissue, 9.5-fold in liver and IL-1RA (68-fold in liver. Fasted mice were protected from IL-1-induced weight loss, hypoglycemia, loss of locomotor and social anxiety. These protections were coupled to a large positive interaction of fasting and IL-1 on IL-1R2 gene expression in adipose tissue and liver (2.6-fold and 1.6-fold, respectively. Fasting not only increased IL-1RA and IL-1R2 protein 2.5-fold and 3.2-fold, respectively, in liver; but also increased IL-1R2 1.8-fold in adipose tissue. Fasting, in turn, triggered a 2.4-fold increase in plasma free-fatty acids (FFAs and a 2.1-fold increase in plasma corticosterone. Inhibition, of glucocorticoid action with mifepristone did not impact fasting-dependent IL-1R2 or IL-1RA gene expression. Administration of the FFA, palmitate, to mice increased liver IL-1R2 and IL-1RA gene expression by 14-fold and 11-fold, respectively. Conclusion: These findings indicate that fasting augments expression of endogenous IL-1 antagonists inducing IL-1 resistance. Fasting-induced increases in plasma FFAs appears to be a signal that drives immunosuppression during fasting/short term starvation.

Clinical significance of measurement of changes of serum IL-6, IL-18 and IL-1β levels after treatment in patients with endometriosis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zhang Chunyan; Zhang Shumin; Zhou Dongxia; Wang Enbo

2008-01-01

Objective: To explore the clinical significance of changes of serum IL-6, IL-18 and IL-1β levels after treatment in patients with endometriosis. Methods: Serum IL-6 (with RIA) and IL-18, IL-1β (with ELISA) levels were determined in 38 patients with endometriosis both before and after treatment as well as 35 controls. Results: Before treatment, the serum IL-6, IL- 18 and IL-1β levels were significantly higher in the patients than those in controls (P 0.05). Conclusion: Detection of serum IL-6, IL-18 and IL- 1β levels might reflect the progress of diseases in patients with endometriosis. (authors)

The GridSite Web/Grid security system

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

McNab, Andrew; Li Yibiao

2010-01-01

We present an overview of the current status of the GridSite toolkit, describing the security model for interactive and programmatic uses introduced in the last year. We discuss our experiences of implementing these internal changes and how they and previous rounds of improvements have been prompted by requirements from users and wider security trends in Grids (such as CSRF). Finally, we explain how these have improved the user experience of GridSite-based websites, and wider implications for portals and similar web/grid sites.

Innovation and competitivity. The case of the districts of Faenza and Prato; Innovazione e competitivita'. Il caso dei distretti di Faenza e di Prato

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Traverso, A. [ENEA, Funzione Centrale Studi, Centro Ricerche Casaccia, Rome (Italy)

2001-07-01

Market's globalization is quickly producing the review of the traditional and international competition orders. For this reason the industrial districts, which are the highest expression of an economic and productive tissue based on the small and medium enterprises, are forced to begin a new formulation of their own structural, organizational, technological and productive distinctive features. The object of this work is, at first, to explain the peculiarities of the distrectual events, and, consequently, to analyse the competitive situation and the future prospects of two italian highly specialized productive areas: the textile district of Prato and the ceramic territory of Faenza. A particular attention will be especially reserved on the role assumed by the innovative aspects (technological and organizational) which it can be noted in that transformation process of the main distrectual competitive paradigms. [Italian] La globalizzazione dei mercati sta velocemente imponendo una revisione delle tradizionali regole della competizione internazionale. Per questo motivo i distretti industriali, che sono la massima espressione di un tessuto economico e produttivo fondato sulla piccola e media impresa, sono stati costretti ad intraprendere un percorso di riformulazione delle proprie caratteristiche strutturali, organizzative, tecnologiche e produttive. Lo scopo di questo lavoro e' di illustrare, in un primo momento, i contorni del fenomeno distrettuale e, conseguentemente, di analizzare la situazione competitiva e le prospettive di sviluppo di due aree italiane fortemente specializzate dal punto di vista produttivo: il distretto tessile di Prato ed il comprensorio della ceramica di Faenza. Una particolare attenzione verra' riservata, nel corso dell'analisi, al ruolo assunto dagli aspetti innovativi (technologici ed innovativi) in questo processo di trasformazione dei principali paradigmi competitivi distrettuali.

Current Grid operation and future role of the Grid

Science.gov (United States)

Smirnova, O.

2012-12-01

Grid-like technologies and approaches became an integral part of HEP experiments. Some other scientific communities also use similar technologies for data-intensive computations. The distinct feature of Grid computing is the ability to federate heterogeneous resources of different ownership into a seamless infrastructure, accessible via a single log-on. Like other infrastructures of similar nature, Grid functioning requires not only technologically sound basis, but also reliable operation procedures, monitoring and accounting. The two aspects, technological and operational, are closely related: weaker is the technology, more burden is on operations, and other way around. As of today, Grid technologies are still evolving: at CERN alone, every LHC experiment uses an own Grid-like system. This inevitably creates a heavy load on operations. Infrastructure maintenance, monitoring and incident response are done on several levels, from local system administrators to large international organisations, involving massive human effort worldwide. The necessity to commit substantial resources is one of the obstacles faced by smaller research communities when moving computing to the Grid. Moreover, most current Grid solutions were developed under significant influence of HEP use cases, and thus need additional effort to adapt them to other applications. Reluctance of many non-HEP researchers to use Grid negatively affects the outlook for national Grid organisations, which strive to provide multi-science services. We started from the situation where Grid organisations were fused with HEP laboratories and national HEP research programmes; we hope to move towards the world where Grid will ultimately reach the status of generic public computing and storage service provider and permanent national and international Grid infrastructures will be established. How far will we be able to advance along this path, depends on us. If no standardisation and convergence efforts will take place

Current Grid operation and future role of the Grid

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Smirnova, O

2012-01-01

Grid-like technologies and approaches became an integral part of HEP experiments. Some other scientific communities also use similar technologies for data-intensive computations. The distinct feature of Grid computing is the ability to federate heterogeneous resources of different ownership into a seamless infrastructure, accessible via a single log-on. Like other infrastructures of similar nature, Grid functioning requires not only technologically sound basis, but also reliable operation procedures, monitoring and accounting. The two aspects, technological and operational, are closely related: weaker is the technology, more burden is on operations, and other way around. As of today, Grid technologies are still evolving: at CERN alone, every LHC experiment uses an own Grid-like system. This inevitably creates a heavy load on operations. Infrastructure maintenance, monitoring and incident response are done on several levels, from local system administrators to large international organisations, involving massive human effort worldwide. The necessity to commit substantial resources is one of the obstacles faced by smaller research communities when moving computing to the Grid. Moreover, most current Grid solutions were developed under significant influence of HEP use cases, and thus need additional effort to adapt them to other applications. Reluctance of many non-HEP researchers to use Grid negatively affects the outlook for national Grid organisations, which strive to provide multi-science services. We started from the situation where Grid organisations were fused with HEP laboratories and national HEP research programmes; we hope to move towards the world where Grid will ultimately reach the status of generic public computing and storage service provider and permanent national and international Grid infrastructures will be established. How far will we be able to advance along this path, depends on us. If no standardisation and convergence efforts will take place

Seasonal influenza A/H3N2 virus infection and IL-1Β, IL-10, IL-17, and IL-28 polymorphisms in Iranian population.

Science.gov (United States)

Rogo, Lawal Dahiru; Rezaei, Farhad; Marashi, Seyed Mahdi; Yekaninejad, Mir Saeed; Naseri, Maryam; Ghavami, Nastaran; Mokhtari-Azad, Talat

2016-12-01

Increased blood cytokines is the main immunopathological process that were attributed to severe clinical outcomes in cases of influenza A/H3N2 virus infection. The study was aimed to investigate the polymorphisms of IL-1β, IL-10, IL-17, and IL-28 genes to find the possibility of their association with the clinical outcome of influenza A/H3N2 virus infection among the infected patients in Iran. This is a Case-Control study in which influenza A/H3N2 virus positive confirmed with real-time PCR were the cases. DNA samples from groups were genotyped for polymorphisms in rs16944 (IL-1β), rs1800872 (IL-10), rs2275913 (IL-17), and rs8099917 (IL-28). Confidence interval (95%CI) and Odds ratio (OR) were calculated. IL-17 rs2275913 (GG and AG) were associated with risk of infection with that were statistically significant (P rs16944) (GG) was associated with reduced risk of infection (P < 0.01, OR = 0.46). Genotype GG and GT of IL-10 (rs1800872) were associated with increased risk of infection with influenza A/H3N2 virus (P < 0.05, OR = 2.04-2.58). In addition, IL-28 (rs8099917) genotypes GG (P < 0.05, OR = 0.49) and TG (P < 0.05, OR = 0.59) were associated with reduced risk of ILI symptom while genotype TT (P < 0.01, OR = 4.31) was associated with increased risk of ILI symptom. The results of this study demonstrated that polymorphisms of genes involved in the inflammatory and anti-inflammatory process affect the outcome of disease caused by influenza A/H3N2 virus. Thorough insight on host immune response at the time of influenza A virus infection is required to ensure adequate patient care in the case of feature outbreaks. J. Med. Virol. 88:2078-2084, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Pregnancy, but not the allergic status, influences spontaneous and induced interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta), IL-6, IL-10 and IL-12 responses.

Science.gov (United States)

Amoudruz, Petra; Minang, Jacob Taku; Sundström, Yvonne; Nilsson, Caroline; Lilja, Gunnar; Troye-Blomberg, Marita; Sverremark-Ekström, Eva

2006-09-01

In this study, we investigated how pregnancy influences cytokine production in response to stimulation of the innate and the adaptive immune system, respectively. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from allergic (n = 44) and non-allergic (n = 36) women were collected at three time-points: during the third trimester, at delivery and at a non-pregnant state 2 years after delivery. The production of interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta), IL-6, IL-10 and IL-12 was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or enzyme-linked immunospot assay (ELISPOT). The spontaneous cytokine production, and the response following stimulation with agents that primarily activate the adaptive part of the immune system [phytohaemagglutinin (PHA), allergen extracts from cat and birch], or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) that activate innate immunity was measured in vitro. There was a significantly higher spontaneous in vitro production of IL-1beta, IL-6 and IL-10 by PBMCs during pregnancy than 2 years after pregnancy, and this was not affected by the allergic status of the women. Conversely, in PHA-stimulated cell cultures there was a lower production of IL-10 and IL-12 during pregnancy than 2 years after pregnancy. LPS-induced IL-6 levels were significantly lower in PBMCs obtained during pregnancy than at 2 years after pregnancy. In addition, we made the interesting observation that in allergic women total immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels were significantly lower 2 years after pregnancy compared to the levels during pregnancy. Taken together, our results indicate that while atopic allergy in women does not have a substantial effect on cytokine production, pregnancy has an obvious effect on the immune system in terms of cytokine production as well as on the total IgE levels.

Structure of IL-22 Bound to Its High-Affinity IL-22R1 Chain

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Jones, B.C.; Logsdon, N.J.; Walter, M.R. (UAB)

2008-09-29

IL-22 is an IL-10 family cytokine that initiates innate immune responses against bacterial pathogens and contributes to immune disease. IL-22 biological activity is initiated by binding to a cell-surface complex composed of IL-22R1 and IL-10R2 receptor chains and further regulated by interactions with a soluble binding protein, IL-22BP, which shares sequence similarity with an extracellular region of IL-22R1 (sIL-22R1). IL-22R1 also pairs with the IL-20R2 chain to induce IL-20 and IL-24 signaling. To define the molecular basis of these diverse interactions, we have determined the structure of the IL-22/sIL-22R1 complex. The structure, combined with homology modeling and surface plasmon resonance studies, defines the molecular basis for the distinct affinities and specificities of IL-22 and IL-10 receptor chains that regulate cellular targeting and signal transduction to elicit effective immune responses.

Three-Dimensional Conformal Radiotherapy in Prostate Cancer Patients: Rise in Interleukin 6 (IL-6) but not IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, Tumor Necrosis Factor-{alpha}, MIP-1-{alpha}, and LIF Levels

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Oliveira Lopes, Carlos [Universidade do Vale do Paraiba, Centro de Oncologia Radioterapica do Vale do Paraiba, Universidade do Vale do Paraiba Instituto de Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento, Universidade do Vale do Paraiba, Sao Jose dos Campos, Sao Paulo (Brazil); Callera, Fernando, E-mail: fcallera@gmail.com [Centro de Hematologia Onco-hematologia e Transplantes de Medula Ossea do Vale do Paraiba, Sao Paulo (Brazil)

2012-03-15

Purpose: To investigate the effect of radiotherapy (RT) on serum levels of interleukin-2 (IL-2), IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-{alpha}), macrophage inflammatory protein-1-alpha (MIP-1-{alpha}) and leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) in patients with prostate cancer. Methods and Materials: Forty eight patients with prostate cancer received three-dimensional conformal blocking radiation therapy with a linear accelerator. IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, TNF-{alpha}, MIP-1-{alpha}, and LIF levels were measured by the related immunoassay kit 1 day before the beginning of RT and during RT at days 15 and 30. Results: The mean IL-2 values were elevated before and during the RT in contrast with those of IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, TNF-{alpha}, MIP-1-{alpha}, and LIF, which were within the normal range under the same conditions. Regarding markers IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, TNF-{alpha}, MIP-1-{alpha}, and LIF, comparisons among the three groups (before treatment and 15 and 30 days during RT) did not show significant differences. Although values were within the normal range, there was a significant rise in IL-6 levels at day 15 of RT (p = 0.0049) and a decline at day 30 to levels that were similar to those observed before RT. Conclusions: IL-6 appeared to peak after 15 days of RT before returning to pre-RT levels. In contrast, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, TNF-{alpha}, MIP-1-{alpha}, and LIF levels were not sensitive to irradiation. The increased levels of IL-6 following RT without the concurrent elevation of other cytokines involved in the acute phase reaction did not suggest a classical inflammatory response to radiation exposure. Further studies should be designed to elucidate the role of IL-6 levels in patients with prostate cancer treated with RT.

OGC and Grid Interoperability in enviroGRIDS Project

Science.gov (United States)

Gorgan, Dorian; Rodila, Denisa; Bacu, Victor; Giuliani, Gregory; Ray, Nicolas

2010-05-01

EnviroGRIDS (Black Sea Catchment Observation and Assessment System supporting Sustainable Development) [1] is a 4-years FP7 Project aiming to address the subjects of ecologically unsustainable development and inadequate resource management. The project develops a Spatial Data Infrastructure of the Black Sea Catchment region. The geospatial technologies offer very specialized functionality for Earth Science oriented applications as well as the Grid oriented technology that is able to support distributed and parallel processing. One challenge of the enviroGRIDS project is the interoperability between geospatial and Grid infrastructures by providing the basic and the extended features of the both technologies. The geospatial interoperability technology has been promoted as a way of dealing with large volumes of geospatial data in distributed environments through the development of interoperable Web service specifications proposed by the Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC), with applications spread across multiple fields but especially in Earth observation research. Due to the huge volumes of data available in the geospatial domain and the additional introduced issues (data management, secure data transfer, data distribution and data computation), the need for an infrastructure capable to manage all those problems becomes an important aspect. The Grid promotes and facilitates the secure interoperations of geospatial heterogeneous distributed data within a distributed environment, the creation and management of large distributed computational jobs and assures a security level for communication and transfer of messages based on certificates. This presentation analysis and discusses the most significant use cases for enabling the OGC Web services interoperability with the Grid environment and focuses on the description and implementation of the most promising one. In these use cases we give a special attention to issues such as: the relations between computational grid and

IL-4 function can be transferred to the IL-2 receptor by tyrosine containing sequences found in the IL-4 receptor alpha chain.

Science.gov (United States)

Wang, H Y; Paul, W E; Keegan, A D

1996-02-01

IL-4 binds to a cell surface receptor complex that consists of the IL-4 binding protein (IL-4R alpha) and the gamma chain of the IL-2 receptor complex (gamma c). The receptors for IL-4 and IL-2 have several features in common; both use the gamma c as a receptor component, and both activate the Janus kinases JAK-1 and JAK-3. In spite of these similarities, IL-4 evokes specific responses, including the tyrosine phosphorylation of 4PS/IRS-2 and the induction of CD23. To determine whether sequences within the cytoplasmic domain of the IL-4R alpha specify these IL-4-specific responses, we transplanted the insulin IL-4 receptor motif (I4R motif) of the huIL-4R alpha to the cytoplasmic domain of a truncated IL-2R beta. In addition, we transplanted a region that contains peptide sequences shown to block Stat6 binding to DNA. We analyzed the ability of cells expressing these IL-2R-IL-4R chimeric constructs to respond to IL-2. We found that IL-4 function could be transplanted to the IL-2 receptor by these regions and that proliferative and differentiative functions can be induced by different receptor sequences.

Increased IL-10 mRNA and IL-23 mRNA expression in multiple sclerosis: interferon-beta treatment increases IL-10 mRNA expression while reducing IL-23 mRNA expression

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Krakauer, M.; Sorensen, P.; Khademi, M.

2008-01-01

volunteers served to confirm initial findings. mRNA was analyzed by real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (PCR). RESULTS: We found elevated expression of interleukin (IL)-23 and IL-10 in untreated MS patients. IFN-beta therapy increased IL-10 and decreased IL-23 expression independently...... of the regulatory cytokine IL-10. The elevated IL-23 mRNA levels in MS patients are noteworthy in view of the newly discovered IL-23-driven Th17 T-cell subset, which is crucial in animal models of MS. Since IFN-beta therapy resulted in decreased IL-23 mRNA levels, the Th17 axis could be another target of IFN...

caGrid 1.0: a Grid enterprise architecture for cancer research.

Science.gov (United States)

Oster, Scott; Langella, Stephen; Hastings, Shannon; Ervin, David; Madduri, Ravi; Kurc, Tahsin; Siebenlist, Frank; Covitz, Peter; Shanbhag, Krishnakant; Foster, Ian; Saltz, Joel

2007-10-11

caGrid is the core Grid architecture of the NCI-sponsored cancer Biomedical Informatics Grid (caBIG) program. The current release, caGrid version 1.0, is developed as the production Grid software infrastructure of caBIG. Based on feedback from adopters of the previous version (caGrid 0.5), it has been significantly enhanced with new features and improvements to existing components. This paper presents an overview of caGrid 1.0, its main components, and enhancements over caGrid 0.5.

IL6 and IL10 are genetic susceptibility factors of periodontal disease

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Luca Scapoli

2012-01-01

Conclusions: The present investigation indicated that polymorphisms of IL6 and IL10 constitute risk factors for chronic periodontitis, while there was no evidence implicating a specific IL1A or IL1B genotype.

Un omaggio a Giuseppe Bellini attraverso un libro a lui dedicato: cuando quiero hallar las voces, encuentro con los afectos...

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Emilia Perassi

2015-01-01

Full Text Available Il presente articolo si propone di tracciare il ritratto di uno dei grandi maestri di studi ispanoamericanistici, Giuseppe Bellini, attraverso una recente opera miscellanea a lui dedicata, a cura di Patrizia Spinato Bruschi e Jaime Martínez. Tale raccolta di saggi non solo restituisce le linee, i contenuti e le forme di una produzione critica monumentale ma ben mostra l’importante ruolo di studioso e di uomo che il Bellini è stato capace di esercitare, articolando attorno a sé una nutrita scuola, a partire dalla visione della letteratura come rete di dialogo e di scambio. I diversi temi affrontati dai più di cinquantacinque saggi mostrano la straordinaria capacità del Bellini di tessere una proficua rete di relazioni, di studio e di amicizia, e di promuovere l’ispanoamericanismo italiano, sempre attraverso il riconoscimento della letteratura come lezione civile e del buon vivere.

IL-8 dictates glycosaminoglycan binding and stability of IL-18 in cystic fibrosis.

LENUS (Irish Health Repository)

Reeves, Emer P

2010-02-01

Dysregulation of airway inflammation contributes to lung disease in cystic fibrosis (CF). Inflammation is mediated by inflammatory cytokines, including IL-8, which illustrates an increase in biological half-life and proinflammatory activity when bound to glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). The aim of this project was to compare IL-8 and IL-18 for their relative stability, activity, and interaction with GAGs, including chondroitin sulfate, hyaluronic acid, and heparan sulfate, present in high quantities in the lungs of patients with CF. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was collected from patients with CF (n = 28), non-CF controls (n = 14), and patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (n = 12). Increased levels of IL-8 and reduced concentrations of IL-18 were detected in bronchial samples obtained from CF individuals. The low level of IL-18 was not a defect in IL-18 production, as the pro- and mature forms of the molecule were expressed and produced by CF epithelial cells and monocytes. There was, however, a marked competition between IL-8 and IL-18 for binding to GAGs. A pronounced loss of IL-18 binding capacity occurred in the presence of IL-8, which displaced IL-18 from these anionic-matrices, rendering the cytokine susceptible to proteolytic degradation by neutrophil elastase. As a biological consequence of IL-18 degradation, reduced levels of IL-2 were secreted by Jurkat T lymphocytes. In conclusion, a novel mechanism has been identified highlighting the potential of IL-8 to determine the fate of other inflammatory molecules, such as IL-18, within the inflammatory milieu of the CF lung.

Study on the changes of serum TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8 levels in patients with coronary cardiac heart diseases

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lu Xiaozhuo; Yu Xian

2003-01-01

Objective: To study the role TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8 played in the pathogenesis of coronary cardiac heart diseases. Methods: Serum levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8 levels were determined by chemiluminescence immunoassay in 32 patients with stable angina, 39 patients with acute myocardial infarction and 36 controls. Results: Serum TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8 levels in all patients were higher than those in controls. Remarkably increased level were seen in acute myocardial infarction group. Difference between control and patient groups were: stable angina group TNF-α, p<0.05, IL-6, p<0.01 and IL-8, p<0.05; acute myocardial infarction group TNF-α, p<0.01, IL-1β, p<0.05, IL-6, p<0.001 and IL-8, p<0.001. Conclusion: There is close relationship between serum TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8 levels and development of coronary cardiac heart disease. They play an important role in the pathogenesis through mutual induction and synergistic actions

The secreted form of the p40 subunit of interleukin (IL)-12 inhibits IL-23 functions and abrogates IL-23-mediated antitumour effects

Science.gov (United States)

Shimozato, Osamu; Ugai, Shin-ichi; Chiyo, Masako; Takenobu, Hisanori; Nagakawa, Hiroyasu; Wada, Akihiko; Kawamura, Kiyoko; Yamamoto, Hiroshi; Tagawa, Masatoshi

2006-01-01

Interleukin (IL)-23 is a heterodimeric cytokine consisting of a novel p19 molecule and the p40 subunit of IL-12. Since secreted p40 can act as an antagonist for IL-12, we investigated whether p40 also inhibited IL-23-mediated immunological functions. p40 did not induce interferon (IFN)-γ or IL-17 production from splenocytes but impaired IL-23-induced cytokine production by competitive binding to the IL-23 receptors. Furthermore, a mixed population of murine colon carcinoma Colon 26 cells transduced with the p40 gene and those transduced with the IL-23 gene developed tumours in syngenic mice, whereas the IL-23-expressing Colon 26 cells were completely rejected. p40 also suppressed IFN-γ production of antigen-stimulated splenocytes and IL-23-mediated cytotoxic T-lymphocyte activities in the mice that rejected Colon 26 cells expressing IL-23. p40 can thereby antagonize IL-23 and is a possible therapeutic agent for suppression of IL-23 functions. PMID:16423037

IL22/IL-22R pathway induces cell survival in human glioblastoma cells.

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Hussein Akil

Full Text Available Interleukin-22 (IL-22 is a member of the IL-10 cytokine family that binds to a heterodimeric receptor consisting of IL-22 receptor 1 (IL-22R1 and IL-10R2. IL-22R expression was initially characterized on epithelial cells, and plays an essential role in a number of inflammatory diseases. Recently, a functional receptor was detected on cancer cells such as hepatocarcinoma and lung carcinoma, but its presence was not reported in glioblastoma (GBM. Two GBM cell lines and 10 primary cell lines established from patients undergoing surgery for malignant GBM were used to investigate the expression of IL-22 and IL-22R by using quantitative RT-PCR, western blotting and confocal microscopy studies. The role of IL-22 in proliferation and survival of GBM cell lines was investigated in vitro by BrdU and ELISA cell death assays. We report herein that the two subunits of the IL-22R complex are expressed on human GBM cells. Their activation, depending on exogenous IL-22, induced antiapoptotic effect and cell proliferation. IL-22 treatment of GBM cells resulted in increased levels of phosphorylated Akt, STAT3 signaling protein and its downstream antiapoptotic protein Bcl-xL and decreased level of phosphorylated ERK1/2. In addition, IL-22R subunits were expressed in all the 10 tested primary cell lines established from GBM tumors. Our results showed that IL-22R is expressed on GBM established and primary cell lines. Depending on STAT3, ERK1/2 and PI3K/Akt pathways, IL-22 induced GBM cell survival. These data are consistent with a potential role of IL-22R in tumorigenesis of GBM. Since endogenous IL-22 was not detected in all studied GBM cells, we hypothesize that IL-22R could be activated by immune microenvironmental IL-22 producing cells.

IL-28 and IL-29 as protective markers in subject with dengue fever.

Science.gov (United States)

Hung, Chih-Hsing; Huang, Chung-Hao; Wang, Lin; Huang, Chun-Chi; Wu, Meng-Chieh; Chin, Yi-Ying; Lin, Chun-Yu; Chang, Ko; Wu, Deng-Chyang; Chen, Yen-Hsu

2017-06-01

About 400 million people every year are estimated to contract dengue virus infection, which causes prolonged morbidity and sometimes mortality. Interleukin (IL)-28 and IL-29 are relatively newly discovered cytokines and play an important role in our immune defense against pathogens, especially for viral infection. In the present study, we investigated serum IL-28 and IL-29 expression and the relationship to clinical and laboratory parameters in patients with dengue virus infection. Adult patients with dengue (n = 45) and control group (n = 24) were included prospectively. Clinical symptoms and laboratory data were collected from every patient. We investigated IL-28 and IL-29 levels in serum by ELISA. The concentrations of serum IL-28 and IL-29 were significantly higher in subjects with dengue when compared to those of control group. The patients with higher serum IL-28 and IL-29 levels had significantly lower ALAT and peripheral blood neutrophil percentage, but higher peripheral platelet, total white blood cell (WBC), monocyte, and lymphocyte counts. Patients with higher serum IL-28 and IL-29 levels also had more flu-like symptoms, but less vomiting. Increased level of IL-28 and IL-29 was associated with better liver function, platelet and WBC numbers and clinical symptom in subjects with dengue and could potentially serve as a protective marker.

Il-legitimacy in the eyes of the il-legitimated

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Gerstroem, Anna

2013-01-01

The financial crisis has brought il-legitimacy to the center of organizational life in the banking industry. It is unfortunate that little is known about how organizational il-legitimacy is experienced and handled by the people who spend most of their wakening hours at work within...... these organizations. The purpose of this paper is to address this gap of knowledge by exploring how members of a bankrupted bank experience and handle attributions of organizational il-legitimacy: to investigate the phenomenon from an inside perspective - in the eyes of the people who undergo it. The paper has...... an inductive approach and offers an explorative analysis based on an in-depth study of qualitative interviews with 20 members of a bankrupted bank. The analysis shows that in bankers’ narrations, (il)legitimacy is central: as a problem and as a solution. The paper contributes to extant knowledge on (il...

Recombinant human growth-regulated oncogene-alpha induces T lymphocyte chemotaxis. A process regulated via IL-8 receptors by IFN-gamma, TNF-alpha, IL-4, IL-10, and IL-13

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Jinquan, T; Frydenberg, Jane; Mukaida, N

1995-01-01

receptors on the cells. This process can be augmented by IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha, and inhibited by IL-4, IL-10, and IL-13. In addition, we also document that on T lymphocytes there exist IL-8 receptors that can be up-regulated by IFN-gamma, TNF-alpha, and IL-2. Our results demonstrate that rhGRO-alpha gene...

Interleukin (IL)-8 and IL-36γ but not IL-36Ra are related to acrosyringia in pustule formation associated with palmoplantar pustulosis.

Science.gov (United States)

Xiaoling, Y; Chao, W; Wenming, W; Feng, L; Hongzhong, J

2018-06-12

Palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP) is a refractory, nonbacterial impetigo confined to the palms and soles. Its pathogenesis is still obscure, but it may be associated with the large eccrine sweat glands and pores of palmoplantar skin. PPP is considered to be a localized pustular psoriasis. Interleukin (IL)-8, IL-36γ and IL-36Ra play important roles in the pathogenesis of pustular psoriasis, but their role in PPP is unclear. To evaluate IL-8, IL-36γ and IL-36Ra expression in PPP, and their relationship with acrosyringia and pustule formation. mRNA expression was quantified in skin samples from patients with PPP (n = 7), patients with psoriasis vulgaris (PSV; n = 8) and healthy controls (HCs) (n = 6) by reverse-transcription-real-time PCR. Protein expression was characterized by immunohistochemistry (PPP, n = 17; PSV, n = 14; HCs, n = 12). Sweat ducts, including acrosyringia, were stained for epithelial membrane antigen (EMA). IL-8 mRNA and protein were markedly increased in PPP lesions compared with PSV lesions or HC skin. IL-36γ mRNA and protein were significantly more abundant in PPP lesions than in HC skin. IL-36Ra mRNA was significantly overexpressed in PPP lesions compared with HC skin, but there was no difference in IL-36Ra protein between PPP, PSV and HCs. IL-8 was abundantly expressed by neutrophils in PPP pustules, while IL36Ra was localized in the keratinocytes of PPP, PSV and HC skin. IL-36γ and EMA were colocalized in cells surrounding PPP pustules, and IL-36γ was also expressed in sweat duct cells in the dermis. IL-8, IL-36γ and IL-36Ra are overexpressed in PPP lesions. IL-8, IL-36γ and acrosyringia, rather than IL-36Ra, are associated with pustule formation in PPP. © 2018 British Association of Dermatologists.

Genome-wide association study of genetic variants in LPS-stimulated IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-1ra and TNF-α cytokine response in a Danish Cohort

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Larsen, Margit Hørup; Albrechtsen, Anders; Thørner, Lise Wegner

2013-01-01

Cytokine response plays a vital role in various human lipopolysaccharide (LPS) infectious and inflammatory diseases. This study aimed to find genetic variants that might affect the levels of LPS-induced interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-1ra and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α cytokine production....

Il fenomeno abachistico a supporto dei cambiamenti socio-economici: Arezzo tra il XIII ed il XVI secolo = The role of the abacus tradition for the economic and social development of the society: evidence from Tuscany (Italy between XIII and XVI century

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Maria Pia Maraghini

2011-12-01

techniques to do arithmetic operations and practical rules to solve commercial and financial questions. The objective of this research is to further investigate the study of abacus schools and books, in order to recover and highlight the role held by the abacus phenomenon in the origins of the “accounting art” and, in general, the role of the “abacus tradition” for the economic and social development of the society during the medieval and renaissance period. To achieve this goal, the study relies upon some evidences from Tuscany (Italy between XIII and XVI century. By combining theoretical and empirical insights, the analysis points out the contribution the abacus tradition has given to the better development of public life in the city-republic during the medieval and renaissance period, that is to say to the best and most effective exercise of duty and civic right. This contribution has been the basis to the growing interest shown towards the abacus culture by the then city-republic authorities.La presente ricerca indaga sulle “origini” dell’arte contabile tendente a memorizzare i comportamenti economici. In particolare, essa esamina i primi “ambienti” specifici predisposti e organizzati per l’insegnamento delle conoscenze contabili e i “mezzi” di studio per il loro trasferimento: le scuole e i libri d’abaco. Diffusisi prevalentemente in Italia tra il XIII ed il XVI secolo, essi avevano il principale scopo di trasmettere quelle conoscenze generalmente definite di “matematica pratica”, quali le tecniche per eseguire le operazioni aritmetiche e le regole pratiche per la risoluzione di problemi commerciali e finanziari.L’obiettivo della ricerca è quello di approfondire lo studio delle scuole e dei libri d’abaco, evidenziandone il ruolo rivestito nella “genesi” della contabilità per le aziende e, quindi, nel più generale sviluppo socio-economico in epoca medioevale e nei primi secoli del Rinascimento.A tal fine, la ricerca si avvale

Il danno alla persona del lavoratore: il mobbing orizzontale

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Riccardo Gentile

2011-12-01

Full Text Available Sommario:1. Il mobbing tra diritto civile e diritto del lavoro – 2. Il fenomeno mobbing: gli studi iniziali e la definizione – 3. Le concrete condotte integranti fattispecie di mobbing – 4. Onere della prova – 5. Il mobbing orizzontale – 6. L’elemento soggettivo di colpevolezza del da­tore di lavoro nella responsabilità ex art. 2087 c.c. per mobbing orizzontale

Dalla geometria delle preesistenze alla conoscenza della costruzione: un’esperienza di recupero aggiornata dalla metodologia BIM

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Massimiliano Lo Turco

2012-06-01

Full Text Available Il termine costruire (lessicalmente equivale a riordinare le singole parti dell’operazione secondo il nesso logico e grammaticale; ed altresì disporle e collegarle secondo le regole e l’uso della lingua. Analogamente gli odierni strumenti BIM possiedono nelle loro corde sia una riconoscibile capacità di sviluppare progetti seguendo le regole del buon costruire, sia un puntuale controllo della geometria da cui derivano le molteplici rappresentazioni di tipo grafo-numerico. Ci si interrogherà inoltre sul rinnovato rapporto tra Rilievo e Progetto, in un ambiente particolarmente fertile ove la Geometria è indagata nelle sue poliedriche proprietà e al Disegno è affidato un ruolo di maggiore visibilità e di effettiva rilevanza.

{sup 99m}Tc sestamibi cardiac tomography and dobutamine echocardiography in the identification of reversible left ventricular dysfunction in patients with acute myocardial infarction; Tomografia cardiaca con {sup 99m}Tc sestamibi ed ecocardiografia con dobutamina nell'identificazione della disfunzione ventricolare sinistra reversibile nei pazienti con infarto acuto del miocardio

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gisonni, P.; Cuocolo, A.; Spinelli, L.; Acampa, W.; Florimonte, L.; Nicolai, E.; Petretta, M.; Sodano, A. [Naples Univ. Federico 2. (Italy). Centro per la Medicina Nucleare del Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche. Dipt. di Scienze Biomorfologiche e Funzionali

1999-04-01

The authors investigated the role of technetium-99m ({sup 99m}Tc) sestamibi cardiac imaging and dobutamine echocardiography in detecting myocardial viability early after acute myocardial infarction. [Italian] La presenza di tessuto miocardico ibernato o stordito contribuisce alla genesi della disfunzione ventricolare sinistra nei pazienti con infarto del miocardio. L'identificazione del miocardio malfunzionante ma ancora vitale ha particolare rilevanza nel predire il recupero della funzione ventricolare in seguito a interventi di rivascolarizzazione coronarica. In questo studio e' stato valutato il ruolo della scintigrafia con tecnezio-99m ({sup 99m}Tc) sestamibi e dell'ecocardiografia con dobutamina nell'identificazione del miocardio vitale dopo infarto acuto del miocardio.

Associations of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF gene and cytokine (IL-1B, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, TNFA genes combinations with type 2 diabetes mellitus in women

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Vladimir Iosifovich Konenkov

2012-09-01

Full Text Available Aim. To study the association between vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF and cytokine (IL1B, IL4, IL6, IL10 and TNFAgene polymorphism combinations with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM in women. Materials and methods. 374 Caucasian women without carbohydrate metabolism disorders from 23 to 68 years of age and 212 womenwith T2DM from 28 to 69 years of age were included in the study. The combinations of polymorphism А-2578С, С+936Т in VEGFgene with polymorphism in IL1B С-31Т, IL4 С-590Т, IL6 G-174C, IL10 A-592C and А-1082G, TNFA А-238G, A-308G and A-863Cwere studied. Results. Analysis revealed 52 combined genetic variations with different rate of occurrence between diabetic and control groups(р

Gridded Species Distribution, Version 1: Global Amphibians Presence Grids

Data.gov (United States)

National Aeronautics and Space Administration — The Global Amphibians Presence Grids of the Gridded Species Distribution, Version 1 is a reclassified version of the original grids of amphibian species distribution...

The role of genetic variation across IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, and BDNF in antipsychotic-induced weight gain.

Science.gov (United States)

Fonseka, Trehani M; Tiwari, Arun K; Gonçalves, Vanessa F; Lieberman, Jeffrey A; Meltzer, Herbert Y; Goldstein, Benjamin I; Kennedy, James L; Kennedy, Sidney H; Müller, Daniel J

2015-01-01

Antipsychotics with high weight gain-inducing propensities influence the expression of immune and neurotrophin genes, which have been independently related to obesity indices. Thus, we investigated whether variants in the genes encoding interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-2, and IL-6 and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) Val66Met are associated with antipsychotic-induced weight gain (AIWG). Nineteen polymorphisms were genotyped using Taqman(®) assays in 188 schizophrenia patients on antipsychotic treatment for up to 14 weeks. Mean weight change (%) from baseline was compared across genotypic groups using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). Epistatic effects between cytokine polymorphisms and BDNF Val66Met were tested using Model-Based Multifactor Dimensionality Reduction. In European patients, IL-1β rs16944*GA (P = 0.013, Pcorrected = 0.182), IL-1β rs1143634*G (P = 0.001, Pcorrected = 0.014), and BDNF Val66Met (Val/Val, P = 0.004, Pcorrected = 0.056) were associated with greater AIWG, as were IL-1β rs4849127*A (P = 0.049, Pcorrected = 0.784), and IL-1β rs16944*GA (P = 0.012, Pcorrected = 0.192) in African Americans. BDNF Val66Met interacted with both IL-1β rs13032029 (Val/Met+ TT, PPerm = 0.029), and IL-6 rs2069837 (Val/Val+ AA, PPerm = 0.021) in Europeans, in addition to IL-1β rs16944 (Val/Val+ GA, PPerm = 0.006) in African Americans. SNPs across IL-1β and BDNF Val66Met may influence AIWG. Replication of these findings in larger, independent samples is warranted.

Chimera Grid Tools

Science.gov (United States)

Chan, William M.; Rogers, Stuart E.; Nash, Steven M.; Buning, Pieter G.; Meakin, Robert

2005-01-01

Chimera Grid Tools (CGT) is a software package for performing computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis utilizing the Chimera-overset-grid method. For modeling flows with viscosity about geometrically complex bodies in relative motion, the Chimera-overset-grid method is among the most computationally cost-effective methods for obtaining accurate aerodynamic results. CGT contains a large collection of tools for generating overset grids, preparing inputs for computer programs that solve equations of flow on the grids, and post-processing of flow-solution data. The tools in CGT include grid editing tools, surface-grid-generation tools, volume-grid-generation tools, utility scripts, configuration scripts, and tools for post-processing (including generation of animated images of flows and calculating forces and moments exerted on affected bodies). One of the tools, denoted OVERGRID, is a graphical user interface (GUI) that serves to visualize the grids and flow solutions and provides central access to many other tools. The GUI facilitates the generation of grids for a new flow-field configuration. Scripts that follow the grid generation process can then be constructed to mostly automate grid generation for similar configurations. CGT is designed for use in conjunction with a computer-aided-design program that provides the geometry description of the bodies, and a flow-solver program.

In vitro secretion profiles of interleukin (IL-1beta, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and TNF alpha after selective infection with Escherichia coli in human fetal membranes

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Maida-Claros Rolando

2007-12-01

Full Text Available Abstract Background Chorioamniotic membranes infection is a pathologic condition in which an abnormal secretion of proinflammatory cytokines halts fetal immune tolerance. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the functional response of human chorioamniotic membranes, as well as the individual contribution of the amnion and choriodecidua after stimulation with Escherichia coli, a pathogen associated with preterm labor. Methods Explants of chorioamniotic membranes from 10 women (37–40 weeks of gestation were mounted and cultured in a Transwell system, which allowed us to test the amnion and choriodecidua compartments independently. Escherichia coli (1 × 10 6 CFU/mL was added to either the amniotic or the choriodecidual regions or both; after a 24-h incubation, the secretion of IL-1beta, IL-6, TNFalpha, IL-8, and IL-10 in both compartments was measured using a specific ELISA. Data were analyzed by Kruskal-Wallis one-way analysis of variance. Results After stimulation with Escherichia coli, the choriodecidua compartment showed an increase in the secretion of IL-1beta (21-fold, IL-6 (2-fold, IL-8 (6-fold, and IL-10 (37-fold, regardless of which side of the membrane was stimulated; TNFalpha secretion augmented (22-fold also but only when the stimulus was applied simultaneously to both sides. When the amnion was stimulated directly, the level of IL-1beta (13-fold rose significantly; however, the increase in IL-8 secretion was larger (20-fold, regardless of the primary site of infection. TNFalpha secretion in the amnion compartment rose markedly only when Escherichia coli was simultaneously applied to both sides. Conclusion Selective stimulation of fetal membranes with Escherichia coli results in a differential production of IL-1beta, IL-6, TNFalpha, IL-8, and IL-10. These tissues were less responsive when the amnion side was stimulated. This is in agreement with the hypothesis that the choriodecidua may play a primary role during an ascending

Il laser

CERN Document Server

Smith, William V

1974-01-01

Verso il 1960, il laser era ancora "una soluzione alla ricerca di un problema", ma fin dagli anni immediatamente successivi si è rivelato uno strumento insostituibile per le applicazioni più svariate.

Grid: From EGEE to EGI and from INFN-Grid to IGI

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Giselli, A.; Mazzuccato, M.

2009-01-01

In the last fifteen years the approach of the computational Grid has changed the way to use computing resources. Grid computing has raised interest worldwide in academia, industry, and government with fast development cycles. Great efforts, huge funding and resources have been made available through national, regional and international initiatives aiming at providing Grid infrastructures, Grid core technologies, Grid middle ware and Grid applications. The Grid software layers reflect the architecture of the services developed so far by the most important European and international projects. In this paper Grid e-Infrastructure story is given, detailing European, Italian and international projects such as EGEE, INFN-Grid and NAREGI. In addition the sustainability issue in the long-term perspective is described providing plans by European and Italian communities with EGI and IGI.

The Films at the Wake. Per un catalogo

OpenAIRE

Rinaldi, Rinaldo

2014-01-01

L'importanza del cinema nell'opera di James Joyce è stata più volte sottolineata dalla critica, soprattutto negli ultimi anni: pensiamo al ruolo suggestivo delle tecniche cinematografiche, ma anche all'ampio repertorio dei film che lo scrittore irlandese mostra di conoscere per passione di cinefilo. Meno studiato da questo punto di vista è Finnegans Wake. Il presente repertorio è dedicato alla presenza del cinema e dei film (ma anche dei registi e degli attori) nell'ultimo romanzo joyciano: c...

L’addomesticamento dei corpi selvaggi

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Maurizio Gnerre

2013-07-01

Full Text Available Nella prima parte di questo testo esporrò in modo sintetico alcuni concetti necessari a un impianto prospettico sulle radici corporee della significazione. In tale ambito, porrò in evidenza il ruolo dei micro- e macro-gesti e dei movimenti e della costruzione degli spazi socio-comunicativi che emergono da coordinamenti e sincronizzazioni motorie. Sulla base dei concetti esposti procederò a un’interpretazione di una dimensione centrale dell’attuazione missionaria, quella rivolta alla re-impostazione della gestualità.

From the grid to the smart grid, topologically

Science.gov (United States)

Pagani, Giuliano Andrea; Aiello, Marco

2016-05-01

In its more visionary acceptation, the smart grid is a model of energy management in which the users are engaged in producing energy as well as consuming it, while having information systems fully aware of the energy demand-response of the network and of dynamically varying prices. A natural question is then: to make the smart grid a reality will the distribution grid have to be upgraded? We assume a positive answer to the question and we consider the lower layers of medium and low voltage to be the most affected by the change. In our previous work, we analyzed samples of the Dutch distribution grid (Pagani and Aiello, 2011) and we considered possible evolutions of these using synthetic topologies modeled after studies of complex systems in other technological domains (Pagani and Aiello, 2014). In this paper, we take an extra important step by defining a methodology for evolving any existing physical power grid to a good smart grid model, thus laying the foundations for a decision support system for utilities and governmental organizations. In doing so, we consider several possible evolution strategies and apply them to the Dutch distribution grid. We show how increasing connectivity is beneficial in realizing more efficient and reliable networks. Our proposal is topological in nature, enhanced with economic considerations of the costs of such evolutions in terms of cabling expenses and economic benefits of evolving the grid.

Grid Generation Techniques Utilizing the Volume Grid Manipulator

Science.gov (United States)

Alter, Stephen J.

1998-01-01

This paper presents grid generation techniques available in the Volume Grid Manipulation (VGM) code. The VGM code is designed to manipulate existing line, surface and volume grids to improve the quality of the data. It embodies an easy to read rich language of commands that enables such alterations as topology changes, grid adaption and smoothing. Additionally, the VGM code can be used to construct simplified straight lines, splines, and conic sections which are common curves used in the generation and manipulation of points, lines, surfaces and volumes (i.e., grid data). These simple geometric curves are essential in the construction of domain discretizations for computational fluid dynamic simulations. By comparison to previously established methods of generating these curves interactively, the VGM code provides control of slope continuity and grid point-to-point stretchings as well as quick changes in the controlling parameters. The VGM code offers the capability to couple the generation of these geometries with an extensive manipulation methodology in a scripting language. The scripting language allows parametric studies of a vehicle geometry to be efficiently performed to evaluate favorable trends in the design process. As examples of the powerful capabilities of the VGM code, a wake flow field domain will be appended to an existing X33 Venturestar volume grid; negative volumes resulting from grid expansions to enable flow field capture on a simple geometry, will be corrected; and geometrical changes to a vehicle component of the X33 Venturestar will be shown.

Curcumin blocks interleukin (IL)-2 signaling in T-lymphocytes by inhibiting IL-2 synthesis, CD25 expression, and IL-2 receptor signaling

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Forward, Nicholas A.; Conrad, David M.; Power Coombs, Melanie R.; Doucette, Carolyn D.; Furlong, Suzanne J.; Lin, Tong-Jun; Hoskin, David W.

2011-01-01

Highlights: → Curcumin inhibits CD4 + T-lymphocyte proliferation. → Curcumin inhibits interleukin-2 (IL-2) synthesis and CD25 expression by CD4 + T-lymphocytes. → Curcumin interferes with IL-2 receptor signaling by inhibiting JAK3 and STAT5 phosphorylation. → IL-2-dependent regulatory T-lymphocyte function and Foxp3 expression is downregulated by curcumin. -- Abstract: Curcumin (diferulomethane) is the principal curcuminoid in the spice tumeric and a potent inhibitor of activation-induced T-lymphocyte proliferation; however, the molecular basis of this immunosuppressive effect has not been well studied. Here we show that micromolar concentrations of curcumin inhibited DNA synthesis by mouse CD4 + T-lymphocytes, as well as interleukin-2 (IL-2) and CD25 (α chain of the high affinity IL-2 receptor) expression in response to antibody-mediated cross-linking of CD3 and CD28. Curcumin acted downstream of protein kinase C activation and intracellular Ca 2+ release to inhibit IκB phosphorylation, which is required for nuclear translocation of the transcription factor NFκB. In addition, IL-2-dependent DNA synthesis by mouse CTLL-2 cells, but not constitutive CD25 expression, was impaired in the presence of curcumin, which demonstrated an inhibitory effect on IL-2 receptor (IL-2R) signaling. IL-2-induced phosphorylation of STAT5A and JAK3, but not JAK1, was diminished in the presence of curcumin, indicating inhibition of critical proximal events in IL-2R signaling. In line with the inhibitory action of curcumin on IL-2R signaling, pretreatment of CD4 + CD25 + regulatory T-cells with curcumin downregulated suppressor function, as well as forkhead box p3 (Foxp3) expression. We conclude that curcumin inhibits IL-2 signaling by reducing available IL-2 and high affinity IL-2R, as well as interfering with IL-2R signaling.

The Grid

CERN Document Server

Klotz, Wolf-Dieter

2005-01-01

Grid technology is widely emerging. Grid computing, most simply stated, is distributed computing taken to the next evolutionary level. The goal is to create the illusion of a simple, robust yet large and powerful self managing virtual computer out of a large collection of connected heterogeneous systems sharing various combinations of resources. This talk will give a short history how, out of lessons learned from the Internet, the vision of Grids was born. Then the extensible anatomy of a Grid architecture will be discussed. The talk will end by presenting a selection of major Grid projects in Europe and US and if time permits a short on-line demonstration.

Parallel grid population

Science.gov (United States)

Wald, Ingo; Ize, Santiago

2015-07-28

Parallel population of a grid with a plurality of objects using a plurality of processors. One example embodiment is a method for parallel population of a grid with a plurality of objects using a plurality of processors. The method includes a first act of dividing a grid into n distinct grid portions, where n is the number of processors available for populating the grid. The method also includes acts of dividing a plurality of objects into n distinct sets of objects, assigning a distinct set of objects to each processor such that each processor determines by which distinct grid portion(s) each object in its distinct set of objects is at least partially bounded, and assigning a distinct grid portion to each processor such that each processor populates its distinct grid portion with any objects that were previously determined to be at least partially bounded by its distinct grid portion.

Structural Characterisation Reveals Mechanism of IL-13-Neutralising Monoclonal Antibody Tralokinumab as Inhibition of Binding to IL-13Rα1 and IL-13Rα2.

Science.gov (United States)

Popovic, B; Breed, J; Rees, D G; Gardener, M J; Vinall, L M K; Kemp, B; Spooner, J; Keen, J; Minter, R; Uddin, F; Colice, G; Wilkinson, T; Vaughan, T; May, R D

2017-01-20

Interleukin (IL)-13 is a pleiotropic T helper type 2 cytokine frequently associated with asthma and atopic dermatitis. IL-13-mediated signalling is initiated by binding to IL-13Rα1, which then recruits IL-4Rα to form a heterodimeric receptor complex. IL-13 also binds to IL-13Rα2, considered as either a decoy or a key mediator of fibrosis. IL-13-neutralising antibodies act by preventing IL-13 binding to IL-13Rα1, IL-4Rα and/or IL-13Rα2. Tralokinumab (CAT-354) is an IL-13-neutralising human IgG4 monoclonal antibody that has shown clinical benefit in patients with asthma. To decipher how tralokinumab inhibits the effects of IL-13, we determined the structure of tralokinumab Fab in complex with human IL-13 to 2 Å resolution. The structure analysis reveals that tralokinumab prevents IL-13 from binding to both IL-13Rα1 and IL-13Rα2. This is supported by biochemical ligand-receptor interaction assay data. The tralokinumab epitope is mainly composed of residues in helices D and A of IL-13. It is mostly light chain complementarity-determining regions that are driving paratope interactions; the variable light complementarity-determining region 2 plays a key role by providing residue contacts for a network of hydrogen bonds and a salt bridge in the core of binding. The key residues within the paratope contributing to binding were identified as Asp50, Asp51, Ser30 and Lys31. This study demonstrates that tralokinumab prevents the IL-13 pharmacodynamic effect by binding to IL-13 helices A and D, thus preventing IL-13 from interacting with IL-13Rα1 and IL-13Rα2. Copyright © 2016 AstraZeneca. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Association study of IL10 and IL23R-IL12RB2 in Iranian patients with Behçet's disease.

Science.gov (United States)

Xavier, Joana M; Shahram, Farhad; Davatchi, Fereydoun; Rosa, Alexandra; Crespo, Jorge; Abdollahi, Bahar Sadeghi; Nadji, Abdolhadi; Jesus, Gorete; Barcelos, Filipe; Patto, José Vaz; Shafiee, Niloofar Mojarad; Ghaderibarim, Fahmida; Oliveira, Sofia A

2012-08-01

Independent replication of the findings from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) remains the gold standard for results validation. Our aim was to test the association of Behçet's disease (BD) with the interleukin-10 gene (IL10) and the IL-23 receptor-IL-12 receptor β2 (IL23R-IL12RB2) locus, each of which has been previously identified as a risk factor for BD in 2 different GWAS. Six haplotype-tagging single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in IL10 and 42 in IL23R-IL12RB2 were genotyped in 973 Iranian patients with BD and 637 non-BD controls. Population stratification was assessed using a panel of 86 ancestry-informative markers. Subtle evidence of population stratification was found in our data set. In IL10, rs1518111 was nominally associated with BD before and after adjustment for population stratification (odds ratio [OR] for T allele 1.20, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.02-1.40, unadjusted P [P(unadj) ] = 2.53 × 10(-2) ; adjusted P [P(adj) ] = 1.43 × 10(-2) ), and rs1554286 demonstrated a trend toward association (P(unadj) = 6.14 × 10(-2) ; P(adj) = 3.21 × 10(-2) ). Six SNPs in IL23R-IL12RB2 were found to be associated with BD after Bonferroni correction for multiple testing, the most significant of which were rs17375018 (OR for G allele 1.51, 95% CI 1.27-1.78, P(unadj) = 1.93 × 10(-6) ), rs7517847 (OR for T allele 1.48, 95% CI 1.26-1.74, P(unadj) = 1.23 × 10(-6) ), and rs924080 (OR for T allele 1.29, 95% CI 1.20-1.39, P = 1.78 × 10(-5) ). SNPs rs10489629, rs1343151, and rs1495965 were also significantly associated with BD in all tests performed. Results of meta-analyses of our data combined with data from other populations further confirmed the role of rs1518111, rs17375018, rs7517847, and rs924080 in the risk of BD, but no epistatic interactions between IL10 and IL23R-IL12RB2 were detected. Results of imputation analysis highlighted the importance of IL23R regulatory regions in the susceptibility to BD. These findings independently confirm

Clinical significance of determination of changes in serum hs-CRP, IL-6, IL-10, and IL-18 levels after treatment in patients with acute conjunctivitis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Liu Jun

2007-01-01

Objective: To study the clinical significance of changes of serum hs-CRP, IL-6, IL-10 and IL-18 levels in patients with acute conjunctivitis after treatment. Methods: Serum IL-6, IL-10 (with RIA) hs-CRP (with Immuno-turbidity) and IL-18 (with ELISA) levels were measured in 38 patients with acute conjunctivitis both before and after treatment as well as in 35 controls. Results: The serum hs-CRP, IL-6, IL-10 and IL-18 levels in the patients before treatment were significantly higher than those in the controls (P 0.05). Conclusion: Measurement of the changes of serum hs-CRP, IL-6, IL-10 and IL-18 levels after treatment might be inportant for outcome prediction in patients with acute conjunctivitis. (authors)

The MicroGrid: A Scientific Tool for Modeling Computational Grids

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H.J. Song

2000-01-01

Full Text Available The complexity and dynamic nature of the Internet (and the emerging Computational Grid demand that middleware and applications adapt to the changes in configuration and availability of resources. However, to the best of our knowledge there are no simulation tools which support systematic exploration of dynamic Grid software (or Grid resource behavior. We describe our vision and initial efforts to build tools to meet these needs. Our MicroGrid simulation tools enable Globus applications to be run in arbitrary virtual grid resource environments, enabling broad experimentation. We describe the design of these tools, and their validation on micro-benchmarks, the NAS parallel benchmarks, and an entire Grid application. These validation experiments show that the MicroGrid can match actual experiments within a few percent (2% to 4%.

IL-17 mediates immunopathology in the absence of IL-10 following Leishmania major infection.

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Claudia Gonzalez-Lombana

2013-03-01

Full Text Available Leishmaniasis, resulting from infection with the protozoan parasite Leishmania, consists of a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations, from healing cutaneous lesions to fatal visceral infections. A particularly severe form of cutaneous leishmaniasis, termed mucosal leishmaniasis, exhibits decreased IL-10 levels and an exaggerated inflammatory response that perpetuates the disease. Using a mouse model of leishmaniasis, we investigated what cytokines contribute to increased pathology when IL-10-mediated regulation is absent. Leishmania major infected C57BL/6 mice lacking IL-10 regulation developed larger lesions than controls, but fewer parasites. Both IFN-γ and IL-17 levels were substantially elevated in mice lacking the capacity to respond to IL-10. IFN-γ promoted an increased infiltration of monocytes, while IL-17 contributed to an increase in neutrophils. Surprisingly, however, we found that IFN-γ did not contribute to increased pathology, but instead regulated the IL-17 response. Thus, blocking IFN-γ led to a significant increase in IL-17, neutrophils and disease. Similarly, the production of IL-17 by cells from leishmaniasis patients was also regulated by IL-10 and IFN-γ. Additional studies found that the IL-1 receptor was required for both the IL-17 response and increased pathology. Therefore, we propose that regulating IL-17, possibly by downregulating IL-1β, may be a useful approach for controlling immunopathology in leishmaniasis.

Interleukin-33 (IL-33): A nuclear cytokine from the IL-1 family.

Science.gov (United States)

Cayrol, Corinne; Girard, Jean-Philippe

2018-01-01

Interleukin-33 (IL-33) is a tissue-derived nuclear cytokine from the IL-1 family abundantly expressed in endothelial cells, epithelial cells and fibroblast-like cells, both during homeostasis and inflammation. It functions as an alarm signal (alarmin) released upon cell injury or tissue damage to alert immune cells expressing the ST2 receptor (IL-1RL1). The major targets of IL-33 in vivo are tissue-resident immune cells such as mast cells, group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) and regulatory T cells (Tregs). Other cellular targets include T helper 2 (Th2) cells, eosinophils, basophils, dendritic cells, Th1 cells, CD8 + T cells, NK cells, iNKT cells, B cells, neutrophils and macrophages. IL-33 is thus emerging as a crucial immune modulator with pleiotropic activities in type-2, type-1 and regulatory immune responses, and important roles in allergic, fibrotic, infectious, and chronic inflammatory diseases. The critical function of IL-33/ST2 signaling in allergic inflammation is illustrated by the fact that IL33 and IL1RL1 are among the most highly replicated susceptibility loci for asthma. In this review, we highlight 15 years of discoveries on IL-33 protein, including its molecular characteristics, nuclear localization, bioactive forms, cellular sources, mechanisms of release and regulation by proteases. Importantly, we emphasize data that have been validated using IL-33-deficient cells. © 2017 The Authors. Immunological Reviews Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Modelling noise propagation using Grid Resources. Progress within GDI-Grid

Science.gov (United States)

Kiehle, Christian; Mayer, Christian; Padberg, Alexander; Stapelfeld, Hartmut

2010-05-01

Modelling noise propagation using Grid Resources. Progress within GDI-Grid. GDI-Grid (english: SDI-Grid) is a research project funded by the German Ministry for Science and Education (BMBF). It aims at bridging the gaps between OGC Web Services (OWS) and Grid infrastructures and identifying the potential of utilizing the superior storage capacities and computational power of grid infrastructures for geospatial applications while keeping the well-known service interfaces specified by the OGC. The project considers all major OGC webservice interfaces for Web Mapping (WMS), Feature access (Web Feature Service), Coverage access (Web Coverage Service) and processing (Web Processing Service). The major challenge within GDI-Grid is the harmonization of diverging standards as defined by standardization bodies for Grid computing and spatial information exchange. The project started in 2007 and will continue until June 2010. The concept for the gridification of OWS developed by lat/lon GmbH and the Department of Geography of the University of Bonn is applied to three real-world scenarios in order to check its practicability: a flood simulation, a scenario for emergency routing and a noise propagation simulation. The latter scenario is addressed by the Stapelfeldt Ingenieurgesellschaft mbH located in Dortmund adapting their LimA software to utilize grid resources. Noise mapping of e.g. traffic noise in urban agglomerates and along major trunk roads is a reoccurring demand of the EU Noise Directive. Input data requires road net and traffic, terrain, buildings and noise protection screens as well as population distribution. Noise impact levels are generally calculated in 10 m grid and along relevant building facades. For each receiver position sources within a typical range of 2000 m are split down into small segments, depending on local geometry. For each of the segments propagation analysis includes diffraction effects caused by all obstacles on the path of sound propagation

Verifica di costruibilità in sicurezza con l’ausilio di strumenti grafici

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Pietro Capone

2013-10-01

Full Text Available Il tema del presente contributo si inserisce a cavallo di due filoni di studi propri del Construction Management: la Sicurezza Cantieri e la Costruibilità. Per affrontare la questione si fa riferimento ad  un approccio che riconosce un ruolo chiave all’attività progettuale in generale ed, in particolare, alla evoluzione del Progetto Esecutivo in Costruttivo. Il metodo proposto consente, intervenendo sulla rappresentazione grafica degli elaborati progettuali, da una parte la valutazione specifica e dettagliata delle condizioni di sicurezza per la realizzazione dell’elemento in oggetto, e contestualmente di verificarne le condizioni di cantierabilità, in una fase precedente il cantiere e quindi in un momento in cui è ancora possibile intervenire, se del caso, con modifiche, più o meno significative sul progetto senza che esso ne risulti snaturato nella sua primitiva impostazione.

A Brief History of IL-1 and IL-1 Ra in Rheumatology

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Jean-Michel Dayer

2017-05-01

Full Text Available The history of what, in 1979, was called interleukin-1 (IL-1, orchestrator of leukocyte inter-communication, began many years before then, initially by the observation of fever induction via the endogenous pyrogen (EP (1974 and then in rheumatology on the role in tissue destruction in rheumatoid diseases via the induction of collagenase and PGE2 in human synovial cells by a mononuclear cell factor (MCF (1977. Since then, the family has exploded to presently 11 members as well as many membrane-bound and soluble receptor forms. The discovery of a natural Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra in human biological fluids has highlighted the importance of IL-1 and IL-1Ra in human diseases. Evidence delineating its role in autoinflammatory syndromes and the elucidation of the macromolecular complex referred to as “inflammasome” have been instrumental to our understanding of the link with IL-1. At present, the IL-1blockade as therapeutic approach is crucial for many hereditary autoinflammatory diseases, as well as for adult-onset Still’s disease, crystal-induced arthropathies, certain skin diseases including neutrophil-triggered skin diseases, Behçet’s disease and deficiency of IL-1Ra and other rare fever syndromes. Its role is only marginally important in rheumatoid arthritis and is still under debate with regard to osteoarthritis, type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases and cancer. This brief historical review focuses on some aspects of IL-1, mainly IL-1β and IL-Ra, in rheumatology. There are many excellent reviews focusing on the IL-1 family in general or with regard to specific diseases or biological discoveries.

Hepatitis B virus induces IL-23 production in antigen presenting cells and causes liver damage via the IL-23/IL-17 axis.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Qinghong Wang

Full Text Available IL-23 regulates myriad processes in the innate and adaptive immune systems, and is a critical mediator of the proinflammatory effects exerted by Th17 cells in many diseases. In this study, we investigated whether and how hepatitis B virus (HBV causes liver damage directly through the IL-23 signaling pathway. In biopsied liver tissues from HBV-infected patients, expression of both IL-23 and IL-23R was remarkably elevated. In vivo observations also indicated that the main sources of IL-23 were myeloid dendritic cells (mDCs and macrophages. Analysis of in vitro differentiated immature DCs and macrophages isolated from healthy donors revealed that the HBV surface antigen (HBsAg efficiently induces IL-23 secretion in a mannose receptor (MR-dependent manner. Culture with an endosomal acidification inhibitor and the dynamin inhibitor showed that, upon binding to the MR, the HBsAg is taken up by mDCs and macrophages through an endocytosis mechanism. In contrast, although the HBV core antigen (HBcAg can also stimulate IL-23 secretion from mDCs, the process was MR- and endocytosis-independent. In addition, IL-23 was shown to be indispensible for HBsAg-stimulated differentiation of naïve CD4(+ T cells into Th17 cells, which were determined to be the primary source of IL-17 in HBV-infected livers. The cognate receptor, IL-17R, was found to exist on the hepatic stellate cells and mDCs, both of which might represent the potential target cells of IL-17 in hepatitis B disease. These data provide novel insights into a yet unrecognized mechanism of HBV-induced hepatitis, by which increases in IL-23 expression, through an MR/endocytosis-dependent or -independent manner, produce liver damage through the IL-23/IL-17 axis.

IL-25 or IL-17E protects against high-fat diet-induced hepatic steatosis in mice dependent upon IL-13 activation of STAT6

Science.gov (United States)

IL-25 is a member of IL-17 cytokine family and has immune-modulating activities. The role of IL-25 in maintaining lipid metabolic homeostasis remains unknown. Here, we investigated the effects of exogenous IL-25 or deficiency of IL-25 on lipid accumulation in the liver. Mice were injected with IL-25...

The IL-17F/IL-17RC Axis Promotes Respiratory Allergy in the Proximal Airways

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Antonella De Luca

2017-08-01

Full Text Available The interleukin 17 (IL-17 cytokine and receptor family is central to antimicrobial resistance and inflammation in the lung. Mice lacking IL-17A, IL-17F, or the IL-17RA subunit were compared with wild-type mice for susceptibility to airway inflammation in models of infection and allergy. Signaling through IL-17RA was required for efficient microbial clearance and prevention of allergy; in the absence of IL-17RA, signaling through IL-17RC on epithelial cells, predominantly by IL-17F, significantly exacerbated lower airway Aspergillus or Pseudomonas infection and allergic airway inflammation. In contrast, following infection with the upper respiratory pathogen Staphylococcus aureus, the IL-17F/IL-17RC axis mediated protection. Thus, IL-17A and IL-17F exert distinct biological effects during pulmonary infection; the IL-17F/IL-17RC signaling axis has the potential to significantly worsen pathogen-associated inflammation of the lower respiratory tract in particular, and should be investigated further as a therapeutic target for treating pathological inflammation in the lung.

Smart grid security

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Cuellar, Jorge (ed.) [Siemens AG, Muenchen (Germany). Corporate Technology

2013-11-01

The engineering, deployment and security of the future smart grid will be an enormous project requiring the consensus of many stakeholders with different views on the security and privacy requirements, not to mention methods and solutions. The fragmentation of research agendas and proposed approaches or solutions for securing the future smart grid becomes apparent observing the results from different projects, standards, committees, etc, in different countries. The different approaches and views of the papers in this collection also witness this fragmentation. This book contains the following papers: 1. IT Security Architecture Approaches for Smart Metering and Smart Grid. 2. Smart Grid Information Exchange - Securing the Smart Grid from the Ground. 3. A Tool Set for the Evaluation of Security and Reliability in Smart Grids. 4. A Holistic View of Security and Privacy Issues in Smart Grids. 5. Hardware Security for Device Authentication in the Smart Grid. 6. Maintaining Privacy in Data Rich Demand Response Applications. 7. Data Protection in a Cloud-Enabled Smart Grid. 8. Formal Analysis of a Privacy-Preserving Billing Protocol. 9. Privacy in Smart Metering Ecosystems. 10. Energy rate at home Leveraging ZigBee to Enable Smart Grid in Residential Environment.

Curcumin blocks interleukin (IL)-2 signaling in T-lymphocytes by inhibiting IL-2 synthesis, CD25 expression, and IL-2 receptor signaling

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Forward, Nicholas A.; Conrad, David M. [Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia (Canada); Power Coombs, Melanie R.; Doucette, Carolyn D. [Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia (Canada); Furlong, Suzanne J. [Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia (Canada); Lin, Tong-Jun [Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia (Canada); Department of Pediatrics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia (Canada); Hoskin, David W., E-mail: d.w.hoskin@dal.ca [Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia (Canada); Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia (Canada); Department of Surgery, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia (Canada)

2011-04-22

Highlights: {yields} Curcumin inhibits CD4{sup +} T-lymphocyte proliferation. {yields} Curcumin inhibits interleukin-2 (IL-2) synthesis and CD25 expression by CD4{sup +} T-lymphocytes. {yields} Curcumin interferes with IL-2 receptor signaling by inhibiting JAK3 and STAT5 phosphorylation. {yields} IL-2-dependent regulatory T-lymphocyte function and Foxp3 expression is downregulated by curcumin. -- Abstract: Curcumin (diferulomethane) is the principal curcuminoid in the spice tumeric and a potent inhibitor of activation-induced T-lymphocyte proliferation; however, the molecular basis of this immunosuppressive effect has not been well studied. Here we show that micromolar concentrations of curcumin inhibited DNA synthesis by mouse CD4{sup +} T-lymphocytes, as well as interleukin-2 (IL-2) and CD25 ({alpha} chain of the high affinity IL-2 receptor) expression in response to antibody-mediated cross-linking of CD3 and CD28. Curcumin acted downstream of protein kinase C activation and intracellular Ca{sup 2+} release to inhibit I{kappa}B phosphorylation, which is required for nuclear translocation of the transcription factor NF{kappa}B. In addition, IL-2-dependent DNA synthesis by mouse CTLL-2 cells, but not constitutive CD25 expression, was impaired in the presence of curcumin, which demonstrated an inhibitory effect on IL-2 receptor (IL-2R) signaling. IL-2-induced phosphorylation of STAT5A and JAK3, but not JAK1, was diminished in the presence of curcumin, indicating inhibition of critical proximal events in IL-2R signaling. In line with the inhibitory action of curcumin on IL-2R signaling, pretreatment of CD4{sup +}CD25{sup +} regulatory T-cells with curcumin downregulated suppressor function, as well as forkhead box p3 (Foxp3) expression. We conclude that curcumin inhibits IL-2 signaling by reducing available IL-2 and high affinity IL-2R, as well as interfering with IL-2R signaling.

Godas Rex. La amonedación del Reino de Godas

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Alberto Trivero Rivera

2014-12-01

Full Text Available Dopo una rassegna storica sulla Sardegna della seconda metà del V secolo e sulla monetazione vandala battuta da una zecca sarda, l'Autore descrive alcune rare emissioni monetarie battute in nome di Godas, sovrano conosciuto solamente grazie ad alcuni paragrafi delle Storie di Procopio di Cesarea. Lo studio delle emissioni monetarie conferma il suo testo e permette di dedurre alcuni aspetti in merito agli eventi che portarono Godas al potere nell'isola e che non sono stati narrati dallo storico palestino. Ciò permette di correggere un'inesatta interpretazione dei fatti data dagli storici sardi, i quali, basandosi sulla traduzione latina invece che sull'originale greco, scrivono che Godas fu inviato in Sardegna dal re vandalo Gelamir: invece il suo ruolo nell'isola fu necessariamente importante già durante il regno di Hilderico, il suo predecessore. L'articolo è completato dal corpus di tutti gli esemplari noti di nummi battuti in nome di Godas.

Lacrimal gland-derived IL-22 regulates IL-17-mediated ocular mucosal inflammation

Science.gov (United States)

Ji, Yong Woo; Mittal, Sharad K.; Hwang, Ho Sik; Chang, Eun-Ju; Lee, Joon H.; Seo, Yuri; Yeo, Areum; Noh, Hyemi; Lee, Hye Sun; Chauhan, Sunil K.; Lee, Hyung Keun

2016-01-01

Inflammatory damage of mucosal surface of the eye is a hallmark of dry eye disease (DED), and in severe cases can lead to significant discomfort, visual impairment, and blindness. DED is a multifactorial autoimmune disorder with a largely unknown pathogenesis. Using a cross-sectional patient study and a well-characterized murine model of DED, herein we investigated the immunoregulatory function of interleukin-22 (IL-22) in the pathogenesis of DED. We found that IL-22 levels were elevated in lacrimal fluids of DED patients and inversely correlated with severity of disease. Acinar cells of the lacrimal glands, not inflammatory immune cells, are the primary source of IL-22, which suppresses inflammation in ocular surface epithelial cells upon desiccating stress. Moreover, loss of function analyses using IL-22 knock-out mice demonstrated that IL-22 is essential for suppression of ocular surface infiltration of Th17 cells and inhibition of DED induction. Our novel findings elucidate immunoregulatory function of lacrimal gland-derived IL-22 in inhibiting IL-17-mediated ocular surface epitheliopathy in DED thus making IL-22 a new relevant therapeutic target. PMID:28051088

Synchronization in single-phase grid-connected photovoltaic systems under grid faults

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Yang, Yongheng; Blaabjerg, Frede

2012-01-01

The highly increasing penetration of single-phase photovoltaic (PV) systems pushes the grid requirements related to the integration of PV power systems to be updated. These upcoming regulations are expected to direct the grid-connected renewable generators to support the grid operation and stabil......The highly increasing penetration of single-phase photovoltaic (PV) systems pushes the grid requirements related to the integration of PV power systems to be updated. These upcoming regulations are expected to direct the grid-connected renewable generators to support the grid operation...

Extracellular Neutrophil Proteases Are Efficient Regulators of IL-1, IL-33, and IL-36 Cytokine Activity but Poor Effectors of Microbial Killing.

Science.gov (United States)

Clancy, Danielle M; Sullivan, Graeme P; Moran, Hannah B T; Henry, Conor M; Reeves, Emer P; McElvaney, Noel G; Lavelle, Ed C; Martin, Seamus J

2018-03-13

Neutrophil granule proteases are thought to function as anti-microbial effectors, cooperatively hydrolyzing microorganisms within phagosomes, or upon deployment into the extracellular space. However, evidence also suggests that neutrophil proteases play an important role in the coordination and escalation of inflammatory reactions, but how this is achieved has been obscure. IL-1 family cytokines are important initiators of inflammation and are typically released via necrosis but require proteolytic processing for activation. Here, we show that proteases liberated from activated neutrophils can positively or negatively regulate the activity of six IL-1 family cytokines (IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-33, IL-36α, IL-36β, and IL-36γ) with exquisite sensitivity. In contrast, extracellular neutrophil proteases displayed very poor bactericidal activity, exhibiting 100-fold greater potency toward cytokine processing than bacterial killing. Thus, in addition to their classical role as phagocytes, neutrophils play an important immunoregulatory role through deployment of their granule proteases into the extracellular space to process multiple IL-1 family cytokines. Copyright © 2018 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The role of CD40L, IL-10 and IL-17 in radioprotection

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Li Ting

2003-01-01

CD40L/CD40 interaction is central to the control of thymus-dependent humoral immunity and cell mediated immune responses. IL-17 has been shown to induce the production of IL-6 and G-CSF, which can induce proliferation and differentiation of CD34 + hematopoietic progenitors. IL-10 can interfere with up-regulation of costimulatory molecules, thus suppressing the production of costimulatory cytokines, such as IL-12. IL-10 has been implicated as an essential mediator in the induction of systemic immune suppression following ultraviolet (UV) exposure. Treating UV-irradiated mice with anti-IL-10 blocks the induction of immune suppression

Grid generation methods

CERN Document Server

Liseikin, Vladimir D

2010-01-01

This book is an introduction to structured and unstructured grid methods in scientific computing, addressing graduate students, scientists as well as practitioners. Basic local and integral grid quality measures are formulated and new approaches to mesh generation are reviewed. In addition to the content of the successful first edition, a more detailed and practice oriented description of monitor metrics in Beltrami and diffusion equations is given for generating adaptive numerical grids. Also, new techniques developed by the author are presented, in particular a technique based on the inverted form of Beltrami’s partial differential equations with respect to control metrics. This technique allows the generation of adaptive grids for a wide variety of computational physics problems, including grid clustering to given function values and gradients, grid alignment with given vector fields, and combinations thereof. Applications of geometric methods to the analysis of numerical grid behavior as well as grid ge...

Role of the IL-12/IL-35 balance in patients with Sjögren syndrome.

Science.gov (United States)

Fogel, Olivier; Rivière, Elodie; Seror, Raphaèle; Nocturne, Gaetane; Boudaoud, Saida; Ly, Bineta; Gottenberg, Jacques-Eric; Le Guern, Véronique; Dubost, Jean-Jacques; Nititham, Joanne; Taylor, Kimberly E; Chanson, Philippe; Dieudé, Philippe; Criswell, Lindsey A; Jagla, Bernd; Thai, Alice; Mingueneau, Michael; Mariette, Xavier; Miceli-Richard, Corinne

2017-09-12

An interferon signature is involved in the pathogenesis of primary Sjögren syndrome (pSS), but whether the signature is type 1 or type 2 remains controversial. Mouse models and genetic studies suggest the involvement of T H 1 and type 2 interferon pathways. Likewise, polymorphisms of the IL-12A gene (IL12A), which encodes for IL-12p35, have been associated with pSS. The IL-12p35 subunit is shared by 2 heterodimers: IL-12 and IL-35. We sought to confirm genetic association of the IL12A polymorphism and pSS and elucidate involvement of the IL-12/IL-35 balance in patients with pSS by using functional studies. The genetic study involved 673 patients with pSS from 2 French pSS cohorts and 585 healthy French control subjects. Functional studies were performed on sorted monocytes, irrespective of whether they were stimulated. IL12A mRNA expression and IL-12 and IL-35 protein levels were assessed by using quantitative RT-PCR and ELISA and a multiplex kit for IL-35 and IL-12, respectively. We confirmed association of the IL12A rs485497 polymorphism and pSS and found an increased serum protein level of IL-12p70 in patients with pSS carrying the risk allele (P = .016). Serum levels of IL-12p70 were greater in patients than control subjects (P = .0001), especially in patients with more active disease (P = .05); conversely, IL-35 levels were decreased in patients (P = .0001), especially in patients with more active disease (P = .05). In blood cellular subsets both IL12p35 and EBV-induced gene protein 3 (EBI3) mRNAs were detected only in B cells, with a trend toward a lower level among patients with pSS. Our findings emphasize involvement of the IL-12/IL-35 balance in the pathogenesis of pSS. Serum IL-35 levels were associated with low disease activity, in contrast with serum IL-12p70 levels, which were associated with more active disease. Copyright © 2017 American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Smart grid technologies in local electric grids

Science.gov (United States)

Lezhniuk, Petro D.; Pijarski, Paweł; Buslavets, Olga A.

2017-08-01

The research is devoted to the creation of favorable conditions for the integration of renewable sources of energy into electric grids, which were designed to be supplied from centralized generation at large electric power stations. Development of distributed generation in electric grids influences the conditions of their operation - conflict of interests arises. The possibility of optimal functioning of electric grids and renewable sources of energy, when complex criterion of the optimality is balance reliability of electric energy in local electric system and minimum losses of electric energy in it. Multilevel automated system for power flows control in electric grids by means of change of distributed generation of power is developed. Optimization of power flows is performed by local systems of automatic control of small hydropower stations and, if possible, solar power plants.

IL-2 absorption affects IFN-gamma and IL-5, but not IL-4 producing memory T cells in double color cytokine ELISPOT assays.

Science.gov (United States)

Quast, Stefan; Zhang, Wenji; Shive, Carey; Kovalovski, Damian; Ott, Patrick A; Herzog, Bernhard A; Boehm, Bernhard O; Tary-Lehmann, Magdalena; Karulin, Alexey Y; Lehmann, Paul V

2005-09-01

Cytokine assays are gaining increasing importance for human immune monitoring because they reliably detect antigen-specific T cells in primary PBMC, even at low clonal sizes. Double color ELISPOT assays permit the simultaneous visualization of cells producing two different cytokines. Permitting the simultaneous assessment of type 1 and 2 immunity and due to the limited numbers of PBMC available from human study subjects, double color assays should be particularly attractive for clinical trials. Since the performance of double color assays has not yet been validated, we set out to compare them to single color measurements. Testing the recall antigen-induced cytokine response of PBMC, we found that double color assays regularly provided lower numbers of IFN-gamma and IL-5 spots than single color measurements when IL-2 detection was part of the double color assay. We showed that the inhibitory effect resulted from IL-2 absorption and could be overcome by either antibody free preactivation cultures or by inclusion of anti-CD28 antibody. In contrast, the simultaneous detection of IL-2 did not affect the numbers of IL-4 spots. Therefore, unlike IL-2/IL-4 and IFN-gamma/IL-5 assays, IL-2/IFN-gamma, and IL-2/IL-5 assays require compensation for the IL-2 capture to provide accurate numbers for the frequencies of cytokine producing memory T cells.

Clinical significance of determination of semen plasma IL-2, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α contents in infertile males

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sun Baoyi; Li Jun; Zhang Jiyun

2004-01-01

Objective: To explore the influence of high semen plasma contents of the cytokines (IL-2, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α) on male fertility. Methods: Semen plasma levels of IL-2, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α were determined with RIA in 126 infertile and 20 fertile males. Results: Semen plasma contents of the 4 cytokines in infertile subjects were significantly higher than those in fertile ones (p 4/HP, n=15) had significantly higher contents of cytokines than those without leucocytospermia (WBC<4/HP, n=111). Besides, TNF-α contents in subjects with lower sperm activity and less motility rate as well as IL-8 contents in subjects with less sperm motility rate were both significantly higher than those in subjects with more normal sperms (p<0.01, p<0.05). Conclusion: High semen plasma cytokines contents represent existing local infection and enhanced auto-immune status, both damaging to sperms. Infertility would be the inevitable consequence. Monitoring of changes of the cytokine contents should be a part of fertility studies

Greening the Grid - Advancing Solar, Wind, and Smart Grid Technologies (Spanish Version)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

2016-04-01

This is the Spanish version of 'Greening the Grid - Advancing Solar, Wind, and Smart Grid Technologies'. Greening the Grid provides technical assistance to energy system planners, regulators, and grid operators to overcome challenges associated with integrating variable renewable energy into the grid.

Micro grids toward the smart grid

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Guerrero, J.

2011-01-01

Worldwide electrical grids are expecting to become smarter in the near future, with interest in Microgrids likely to grow. A microgrid can be defined as a part of the grid with elements of prime energy movers, power electronics converters, distributed energy storage systems and local loads, that can operate autonomously but also interacting with main grid. Thus, the ability of intelligent Microgrids to operate in island mode or connected to the grid will be a keypoint to cope with new functionalities and the integration of renewable energy resources. The functionalities expected for these small grids are: black start operation, frequency and voltage stability, active and reactive power flow control, active power filter capabilities, and storage energy management. In this presentation, a review of the main concepts related to flexible Microgrids will be introduced, with examples of real Microgrids. AC and DC Microgrids to integrate renewable and distributed energy resources will also be presented, as well as distributed energy storage systems, and standardization issues of these Microgrids. Finally, Microgrid hierarchical control will be analyzed looking at three different levels: i) a primary control based on the droop method, including an output impedance virtual loop; ii) a secondary control, which enables restoring any deviations produced by the primary control; and iii) a tertiary control to manage the power flow between the microgrid and the external electrical distribution system.

Increased IL-20 and IL-24 target osteoblasts and synovial monocytes in spondyloarthritis

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Kragstrup, Tue Wenzel; Andersen, Morten Nørgaard; Schiøttz-Christensen, Berit

2017-01-01

The pathogenesis of spondyloarthritis (SpA) involves activation of the innate immune system, inflammation and new bone formation. The two cytokines interleukin (IL)-20 and IL-24 have been shown to link innate immune activation and tissue homeostasis. We hypothesized that these two cytokines...... are secreted as part of activation of the innate immune system and affect bone homeostasis in SpA. IL-20 and IL-24 were measured in plasma from axial SpA patients (n = 83). Peripheral SpA patients (n = 16) were included for in-vitro cell culture studies. The plasma IL-20 and IL-24 levels were increased in Sp...

[Correlation of serum IL-16, IL-18 levels and immunoglobulins in children with asthma].

Science.gov (United States)

Xue, Yi-Nan; Zou, Xian-De; Wu, Jia-Ling

2006-02-01

This study examined the changes of serum levels of interleukin (IL)-16, IL-18 and immunoglobulins and the correlation of serum IL-16, IL-18 levels and immunoglobulins in children with asthma and aimed to explore the role of IL-16, IL-18 and immunoglobulins in the pathogenesis of asthma. Thirty-four children with asthma and 21 age and gender-matched healthy children were enrolled in this study. The levels of IL-16, IL-18 and immunoglobulin E (IgE) were determined using ELISA. Immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunoglobulin M (IgM) and immunoglobulin A (IgA) were detected by immunoturbidimetry. The levels of IL-16, IL-18 and IgE in patients with asthma at both acute attack and convalescence stages were significantly higher than those in healthy controls. An increased IgG and a decreased IgA levels were found in asthmatic patients at the acute attack stage. There was a positive correlation between the IL-16 and IL-18 levels at both acute attack and convalescence stages of asthma (r=0.70, P attack stage of asthma (r=0.624, P asthma. The immunologic imbalance exists in children with asthma at both acute attack and convalescence stages. Anti-allergic therapy should be administered through the acute attack to the convalescence stages of asthma.

Il ruolo della neurocriminologia nella costruzione di un profilo criminologico dell’omicida seriale

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Samuel Occhi

2015-09-01

The purpose of this article is to analyse modalities permitting the investigators to determine the profile of a serial killer according to their neurocriminological characteristics. The phenomenon of serial killing is described in the introduction. This descriptive analysis takes into account the typically used classifications, the criminogenesis, and the criminodynamics. In the second part, neurocriminological variables associated with this criminal profile are reviewed. Among them, the main variables are genetics and brain functioning.

CEO Duality e performance. Il ruolo del controllo familiare in periodi di crisi

OpenAIRE

Tenuta, Paolo; Cambrea, Domenico Rocco; Iusi, Giorgio

2016-01-01

There are several studies in the literature which analyse the effect of CEO duality on corporate performance, reaching mixed conclusions. Using agency theory, stewardship theory and socio-emotional wealth theory perspectives, we examine the relationship between CEO duality and the performance of Italian publicly listed companies over the period 2003–2013. In addition, considering the presence of conflicting empirical evidence, which could lead to a positive effect rather than a negative one, ...

Smart grid security

CERN Document Server

Goel, Sanjay; Papakonstantinou, Vagelis; Kloza, Dariusz

2015-01-01

This book on smart grid security is meant for a broad audience from managers to technical experts. It highlights security challenges that are faced in the smart grid as we widely deploy it across the landscape. It starts with a brief overview of the smart grid and then discusses some of the reported attacks on the grid. It covers network threats, cyber physical threats, smart metering threats, as well as privacy issues in the smart grid. Along with the threats the book discusses the means to improve smart grid security and the standards that are emerging in the field. The second part of the b

The Grid2003 Production Grid Principles and Practice

CERN Document Server

Foster, I; Gose, S; Maltsev, N; May, E; Rodríguez, A; Sulakhe, D; Vaniachine, A; Shank, J; Youssef, S; Adams, D; Baker, R; Deng, W; Smith, J; Yu, D; Legrand, I; Singh, S; Steenberg, C; Xia, Y; Afaq, A; Berman, E; Annis, J; Bauerdick, L A T; Ernst, M; Fisk, I; Giacchetti, L; Graham, G; Heavey, A; Kaiser, J; Kuropatkin, N; Pordes, R; Sekhri, V; Weigand, J; Wu, Y; Baker, K; Sorrillo, L; Huth, J; Allen, M; Grundhoefer, L; Hicks, J; Luehring, F C; Peck, S; Quick, R; Simms, S; Fekete, G; Van den Berg, J; Cho, K; Kwon, K; Son, D; Park, H; Canon, S; Jackson, K; Konerding, D E; Lee, J; Olson, D; Sakrejda, I; Tierney, B; Green, M; Miller, R; Letts, J; Martin, T; Bury, D; Dumitrescu, C; Engh, D; Gardner, R; Mambelli, M; Smirnov, Y; Voeckler, J; Wilde, M; Zhao, Y; Zhao, X; Avery, P; Cavanaugh, R J; Kim, B; Prescott, C; Rodríguez, J; Zahn, A; McKee, S; Jordan, C; Prewett, J; Thomas, T; Severini, H; Clifford, B; Deelman, E; Flon, L; Kesselman, C; Mehta, G; Olomu, N; Vahi, K; De, K; McGuigan, P; Sosebee, M; Bradley, D; Couvares, P; De Smet, A; Kireyev, C; Paulson, E; Roy, A; Koranda, S; Moe, B; Brown, B; Sheldon, P

2004-01-01

The Grid2003 Project has deployed a multi-virtual organization, application-driven grid laboratory ("GridS") that has sustained for several months the production-level services required by physics experiments of the Large Hadron Collider at CERN (ATLAS and CMS), the Sloan Digital Sky Survey project, the gravitational wave search experiment LIGO, the BTeV experiment at Fermilab, as well as applications in molecular structure analysis and genome analysis, and computer science research projects in such areas as job and data scheduling. The deployed infrastructure has been operating since November 2003 with 27 sites, a peak of 2800 processors, work loads from 10 different applications exceeding 1300 simultaneous jobs, and data transfers among sites of greater than 2 TB/day. We describe the principles that have guided the development of this unique infrastructure and the practical experiences that have resulted from its creation and use. We discuss application requirements for grid services deployment and configur...

Mapping of grid faults and grid codes

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Iov, F.; Hansen, Anca Daniela; Sørensen, Poul Ejnar

loads of wind turbines. The goal is also to clarify and define possible new directions in the certification process of power plant wind turbines, namely wind turbines, which participate actively in the stabilisation of power systems. Practical experience shows that there is a need...... challenges for the design of both the electrical system and the mechanical structure of wind turbines. An overview over the frequency of grid faults and the grid connection requirements in different relevant countries is done in this report. The most relevant study cases for the quantification of the loads......The present report is a part of the research project ''Grid fault and designbasis for wind turbine'' supported by Energinet.dk through the grant PSO F&U 6319. The objective of this project is to investigate into the consequences of the new grid connection requirements for the fatigue and extreme...

Commensal bacteria and MAMPs are necessary for stress-induced increases in IL-1β and IL-18 but not IL-6, IL-10 or MCP-1.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Thomas Maslanik

Full Text Available Regular interactions between commensal bacteria and the enteric mucosal immune environment are necessary for normal immunity. Alterations of the commensal bacterial communities or mucosal barrier can disrupt immune function. Chronic stress interferes with bacterial community structure (specifically, α-diversity and the integrity of the intestinal barrier. These interferences can contribute to chronic stress-induced increases in systemic IL-6 and TNF-α. Chronic stress, however, produces many physiological changes that could indirectly influence immune activity. In addition to IL-6 and TNF-α, exposure to acute stressors upregulates a plethora of inflammatory proteins, each having unique synthesis and release mechanisms. We therefore tested the hypothesis that acute stress-induced inflammatory protein responses are dependent on the commensal bacteria, and more specifically, lipopolysaccharide (LPS shed from Gram-negative intestinal commensal bacteria. We present evidence that both reducing commensal bacteria using antibiotics and neutralizing LPS using endotoxin inhibitor (EI attenuates increases in some (inflammasome dependent, IL-1 and IL-18, but not all (inflammasome independent, IL-6, IL-10, and MCP-1 inflammatory proteins in the blood of male F344 rats exposed to an acute tail shock stressor. Acute stress did not impact α- or β- diversity measured using 16S rRNA diversity analyses, but selectively reduced the relative abundance of Prevotella. These findings indicate that commensal bacteria contribute to acute stress-induced inflammatory protein responses, and support the presence of LPS-mediated signaling in stress-evoked cytokine and chemokine production. The selectivity of the commensal bacteria in stress-evoked IL-1β and IL-18 responses may implicate the inflammasome in this response.

Influence of the IL-1Ra gene polymorphism on in vivo synthesis of IL-1Ra and IL-1beta after live yellow fever vaccination.

Science.gov (United States)

Hacker, U T; Erhardt, S; Tschöp, K; Jelinek, T; Endres, S

2001-09-01

The inflammatory response in infectious and autoimmune diseases is regulated by the balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. The IL-1 complex contains polymorphic genes coding for IL-1alpha, IL-1beta and IL-1Ra. The IL-1Ra (variable number of tanden repeat) VNTR polymorphism has been shown to influence the capacity to produce IL-1beta and IL-1Ra after in vitro stimulation. Allele 2 of this polymorphism is associated with a number of inflammatory diseases. To determine the impact of the IL-1Ra polymorphism on in vivo human cytokine synthesis, we used a yellow fever vaccination model for the induction of cytokine synthesis in healthy volunteers. Two different yellow fever vaccines were used. After administration of the RKI vaccine (34 volunteers), plasma TNF-alpha concentration increased from 13.4 +/- 0.9 pg/ml to 23.3 +/- 1.1 pg/ml (P < 0.001), and plasma IL-1Ra concentration increased from 308 +/- 25 pg/ml to 1019 +/- 111 pg/ml (P < 0.001), on day 2. Using Stamaril vaccine, no increase in the plasma concentrations of either TNF-alpha or IL-1Ra could be detected (n = 17). Only the RKI vaccine induced TNF-alpha synthesis after in vitro stimulation of MNC. Carriers of allele 2 of the IL-1Ra polymorphism had increased baseline concentrations of IL-1Ra (350 +/- 32 pg/ml) compared with non-carriers (222 +/- 18 pg/ml, P < 0.001), and decreased concentrations of IL-1beta (0.9 +/- 0.2 pg/ml for carriers versus 2.8 +/- 0.7 pg/ml for non-carriers, P = 0.017). After yellow fever vaccination (RKI vaccine), no significant differences in the increase of IL-1Ra plasma levels were detected between carriers and non-carriers of allele 2 of the IL-1Ra gene polymorphism. This is the first study to examine the influence of this genetic polymorphism on in vivo-induced human IL-1beta and IL-1Ra synthesis. Baseline concentrations of IL-1Ra and IL-1beta were significantly influenced by the IL-1Ra polymorphism. No influence of the IL-1Ra polymorphism on the in vivo

Il Corporativismo: un paradosso della politica economica dello stato fascista = Corporativism: a paradox of the economic policy of the fascist state

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Natascia Ridolfi

2014-12-01

Full Text Available Uscito a pezzi dalla pesante crisi finanziaria e industriale del 1907, che aveva messo a nudo i limiti della struttura economica del Paese, il capitalismo industriale italiano elaborò un programma, portato avanti fino al primo dopoguerra, che prevedeva l’instaurazione di un governo di tecnocrati. Questo avrebbe dovuto trainare il Paese fuori dalla crisi, pianificarne l’economia e trasformarlo in una grande potenza industriale, con forti connotazioni imperialistiche. Segnali in tale direzione si erano registrati anche nei decenni precedenti, tra fine Ottocento e inizi Novecento, quando ebbe inizio un processo di concentrazione nel settore siderurgico e meccanico. Un percorso peraltro stimolato dalle commesse statali sempre più consistenti (Galli Della Loggia, 1970; Battilossi, 1999; Amatori e Colli, 1999; Bolchini, 2002. La crisi industriale e finanziaria del 1907 e la recessione a livello mondiale che ne seguì, accelerarono la soluzione tecnocratica, che prevedeva un’alleanza, più o meno stretta, con una parte della classe politica e l’entrata in guerra. Negli anni immediatamente seguenti il conflitto, il potere dei tecnocrati sulla scena politica italiana sembrò accrescersi notevolmente, soprattutto quando il governo progettò un programma di espansione economica nelle regioni del Caucaso, nei Balcani e nel Levante ex ottomano, territori in grado di fornire materie prime e di assorbire la produzione italiana in eccesso rispetto alle richieste di un mercato interno asfittico. La collaborazione tra mondo imprenditoriale, bancario e politico non produsse il risultato sperato. La caduta del governo Nitti e il ruolo destabilizzante e filotedesco della Banca Commerciale Italiana nell’Est europeo e nel Caucaso furono tra le cause principali che impedirono il decollo del progetto tecnocratico, provocando una dura reazione da parte dei fratelli Perrone alla guida del gruppo Ansaldo. Heavily Weakened by the financial and industrial crisis

IL-15 deficient tax mice reveal a role for IL-1α in tumor immunity.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Daniel A Rauch

Full Text Available IL-15 is recognized as a promising candidate for tumor immunotherapy and has been described as both a promoter of cancer and a promoter of anti-cancer immunity. IL-15 was discovered in cells transformed by HTLV-1, the etiologic agent of adult T cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL and the human retrovirus that carries the Tax oncogene. We have developed the TAX-LUC mouse model of ATL in which Tax expression drives both malignant transformation and luciferase expression, enabling non-invasive imaging of tumorigenesis in real time. To identify the role of IL-15 in spontaneous development of lymphoma in vivo, an IL-15(-/- TAX-LUC strain was developed and examined. The absence of IL-15 resulted in aggressive tumor growth and accelerated mortality and demonstrated that IL-15 was not required for Tax-mediated lymphoma but was essential for anti-tumor immunity. Further analysis revealed a unique transcriptional profile in tumor cells that arise in the absence of IL-15 that included a significant increase in the expression of IL-1α and IL-1α-regulated cytokines. Moreover, anti-IL-1α antibodies and an IL-1 receptor antagonist (Anakinra were used to interrogate the potential of IL-1α targeted therapies in this model. Taken together, these findings identify IL-15 and IL-1α as therapeutic targets in lymphoma.

A Stationary Reference Frame Grid Synchronization System for Three-Phase Grid-Connected Power Converters Under Adverse Grid Conditions

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Rodríguez, P.; Luna, A.; Muñoz-Aguilar, R. S.

2012-01-01

synchronization method for three-phase three-wire networks, namely dual second-order generalized integrator (SOGI) frequency-locked loop. The method is based on two adaptive filters, implemented by using a SOGI on the stationary αβ reference frame, and it is able to perform an excellent estimation......Grid synchronization algorithms are of great importance in the control of grid-connected power converters, as fast and accurate detection of the grid voltage parameters is crucial in order to implement stable control strategies under generic grid conditions. This paper presents a new grid...

Pro-inflammatory signaling by IL-10 and IL-22: bad habit stirred up by interferons ?

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Heiko eMühl

2013-02-01

Full Text Available Interleukin (IL-10 and IL-22 are key members of the IL-10 cytokine family that share characteristic properties such as defined structural features, usage of IL-10R2 as one receptor chain, and activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT-3 as dominant signaling mode. IL-10, formerly known as cytokine synthesis inhibitory factor, is key to deactivation of monocytes/macrophages and dendritic cells. Accordingly, pre-clinical studies document its anti-inflammatory capacity. However, the outcome of clinical trials assessing the therapeutic potential of IL-10 in prototypic inflammatory disorders has been disappointing. In contrast to IL-10, IL-22 acts primarily on non-leukocytic cells, in particular epithelial cells of intestine, skin, liver, and lung. STAT3-driven proliferation, anti-apoptosis, and anti-microbial tissue protection is regarded a principal function of IL-22 at host/environment interfaces. In this hypothesis article, hidden/underappreciated pro-inflammatory characteristics of IL-10 and IL-22 are outlined and related to cellular priming by type I interferon. It is tempting to speculate that an inherent inflammatory potential of IL-10 and IL-22 confines their usage in tissue protective therapy and beyond that determines in some patients efficacy of type I interferon treatment.

Expression of IL-8, IL-6 and IL-1β in Tears as a Main Characteristic of the Immune Response in Human Microbial Keratitis

Science.gov (United States)

Santacruz, Concepcion; Linares, Marisela; Garfias, Yonathan; Loustaunau, Luisa M.; Pavon, Lenin; Perez-Tapia, Sonia Mayra; Jimenez-Martinez, Maria C.

2015-01-01

Corneal infections are frequent and potentially vision-threatening diseases, and despite the significance of the immunological response in animal models of microbial keratitis (MK), it remains unclear in humans. The aim of this study was to describe the cytokine profile of tears in patients with MK. Characteristics of ocular lesions such as size of the epithelial defect, stromal infiltration, and hypopyon were analyzed. Immunological evaluation included determination of interleukine (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in tear samples obtained from infected eyes of 28 patients with MK and compared with their contralateral non-infected eyes. Additionally, frequency of CD4+, CD8+, CD19+ and CD3−CD56+ cells was also determined in peripheral blood mononuclear cells in patients with MK, and compared with 48 healthy controls. Non-significant differences were observed in the size of the epithelial defect, stromal infiltration, and hypopyon. Nevertheless, we found an immunological profile apparently related to MK etiology. IL-8 > IL-6 in patients with bacterial keratitis; IL-8 > IL-6 > IL-1β and increased frequency of circulating CD3−CD56+ NK cells in patients with gram-negative keratitis; and IL-8 = IL-6 > IL-1β in patients with fungal keratitis. Characterization of tear cytokines from patients with MK could aid our understanding of the immune pathophysiological mechanisms underlying corneal damage in humans. PMID:25741769

IL-10 and IL-27 producing dendritic cells capable of enhancing IL-10 production of T cells are induced in oral tolerance.

Science.gov (United States)

Shiokawa, Aya; Tanabe, Kosuke; Tsuji, Noriko M; Sato, Ryuichiro; Hachimura, Satoshi

2009-06-30

Oral tolerance is a key feature of intestinal immunity, generating systemic tolerance to ingested antigens (Ag). Dendritic cells (DC) have been revealed as important immune regulators, however, the precise role of DC in oral tolerance induction remains unclear. We investigated the characteristics of DC in spleen, mesenteric lymph node (MLN), and Peyer's patch (PP) after oral Ag administration in a TCR-transgenic mouse model. DC from PP and MLN of tolerized mice induced IL-10 production but not Foxp3 expression in cocultured T cells. IL-10 production was markedly increased after 5-7-day Ag administration especially in PP DC. On the other hand, IL-27 production was increased after 2-5-day Ag administration. CD11b(+) DC, which increased after ingestion of Ag, prominently expressed IL-10 and IL-27 compared with CD11b(-) DC. These results suggest that IL-10 and IL-27 producing DC are increased by interaction with antigen specific T cells in PP, and these DC act as an inducer of IL-10 producing T cells in oral tolerance.

IL-7 Induces an Epitope Masking of γc Protein in IL-7 Receptor Signaling Complex

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Tae Sik Goh

2017-01-01

Full Text Available IL-7 signaling via IL-7Rα and common γ-chain (γc is necessary for the development and homeostasis of T cells. Although the delicate mechanism in which IL-7Rα downregulation allows the homeostasis of T cell with limited IL-7 has been well known, the exact mechanism behind the interaction between IL-7Rα and γc in the absence or presence of IL-7 remains unclear. Additionally, we are still uncertain as to how only IL-7Rα is separately downregulated by the binding of IL-7 from the IL-7Rα/γc complex. We demonstrate here that 4G3, TUGm2, and 3E12 epitope masking of γc protein are induced in the presence of IL-7, indicating that the epitope alteration is induced by IL-7 binding to the preassembled receptor core. Moreover, the epitope masking of γc protein is inversely correlated with the expression of IL-7Rα upon IL-7 binding, implying that the structural alteration of γc might be involved in the regulation of IL-7Rα expression. The conformational change in γc upon IL-7 binding may contribute not only to forming the functional IL-7 signaling complex but also to optimally regulating the expression of IL-7Rα.

IL-7 Induces an Epitope Masking of γc Protein in IL-7 Receptor Signaling Complex

Science.gov (United States)

Goh, Tae Sik; Jo, Yuna; Lee, Byunghyuk; Kim, Geona; Hwang, Hyunju; Ko, Eunhee; Kang, Seung Wan; Oh, Sae-Ock; Baek, Sun-Yong; Yoon, Sik; Lee, Jung Sub

2017-01-01

IL-7 signaling via IL-7Rα and common γ-chain (γc) is necessary for the development and homeostasis of T cells. Although the delicate mechanism in which IL-7Rα downregulation allows the homeostasis of T cell with limited IL-7 has been well known, the exact mechanism behind the interaction between IL-7Rα and γc in the absence or presence of IL-7 remains unclear. Additionally, we are still uncertain as to how only IL-7Rα is separately downregulated by the binding of IL-7 from the IL-7Rα/γc complex. We demonstrate here that 4G3, TUGm2, and 3E12 epitope masking of γc protein are induced in the presence of IL-7, indicating that the epitope alteration is induced by IL-7 binding to the preassembled receptor core. Moreover, the epitope masking of γc protein is inversely correlated with the expression of IL-7Rα upon IL-7 binding, implying that the structural alteration of γc might be involved in the regulation of IL-7Rα expression. The conformational change in γc upon IL-7 binding may contribute not only to forming the functional IL-7 signaling complex but also to optimally regulating the expression of IL-7Rα. PMID:28127156

Don Juan: eine Tragödie. Intertestualità faustiana e riscrittura tragica nel racconto di E. T. A. Hoffmann

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Francesco Marola

2017-11-01

Full Text Available Il mito letterario di don Giovanni, sorto nella commedia, attorno al 1800 viene riformulato in direzione del tragico. La trasformazione inizia con la versione operistica di Mozart-Da Ponte e trova compimento nel racconto di Hoffmann, che proietta il nuovo tono tragico del finale mozartiano su tutto il mito. L’articolo intende porre in rilievo la presenza nel Don Juan di numerosi richiami intertestuali al Faust di Goethe, finora non pienamente rilevati dalla critica, attraverso i quali è possibile leggere tale riscrittura tragica come una dichiarata sintesi dei due miti, in cui don Giovanni assume il ruolo di Faust-Mefistofele e donna Anna quello di Gretchen. La riscrittura del mito culmina nel finale rispecchiamento del narratore in Anna-Gretchen. Ma il valore del tragico è relativizzato in Hoffmann dall’ironica autocoscienza dell’artista romantico: confinato nel mondo fantastico dell’arte, risulta privo di senso nella prosaica realtà della vita borghese.

GridICE: monitoring the user/application activities on the grid

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Aiftimiei, C; Pra, S D; Andreozzi, S; Fattibene, E; Misurelli, G; Cuscela, G; Donvito, G; Dudhalkar, V; Maggi, G; Pierro, A; Fantinel, S

2008-01-01

The monitoring of the grid user activity and application performance is extremely useful to plan resource usage strategies particularly in cases of complex applications. Large VOs, such as the LHC VOs, do their monitoring by means of dashboards. Other VOs or communities, like for example the BioinfoGRID one, are characterized by a greater diversification of the application types: so the effort to provide a dashboard like monitor is particularly heavy. The main theme of this paper is to show the improvements introduced in GridICE, a web tool built to provides an almost complete grid monitoring. These recent improvements allows GridICE to provide new reports on the resources usage with details of the VOMS groups, roles and users. By accessing the GridICE web pages, the grid user can get all information that is relevant to keep track of his activity on the grid. In the same way, the activity of a VOMS group can be distinguished from the activity of the entire VO. In this paper we briefly talk about the features and advantages of this approach and, after discussing the requirements, we describe the software solutions, middleware and prerequisite to manage and retrieve the user's credentials

Comparison of tentative radiographic working length with and without grid versus electronic apex locator

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Tanikonda Rambabu

2018-01-01

Full Text Available The apical termination of obturation is the most important factor influencing the success of root canal treatment (RCT. Working length (WL is the key element in achieving this. Aim: The aim of this study is to compare and evaluate the preoperative estimated WL with conventional radiograph and with grid radiograph, with reference to electronic apex locator (EAL in single-rooted teeth. Settings and Design: Thirty permanent anterior teeth with complete root formation indicated for RCT were included in this study. Materials and Methods: Conventional radiograph (Group 1 and conventional radiograph with external grid (Group 2 were made before access opening. WL with EAL (Group 3 was determined after access opening. Statistical Analysis: The statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS version 16.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA was used to compare the WLs of three groups, and the statistical significance was considered to be P ≤ 0.05. ANOVA, post hoc test were made to measure the intergroup comparison, and Pearson correlation values were obtained. Results and Conclusion: The results of the study showed a higher correlation between grid WL and apex locator WL than conventional WL and apex locator WL. Preoperative metrics with radiographic grid along with the apex locator is a better measuring tool compared to the conventional radiographic WL in a single-rooted tooth.

Mapping of grid faults and grid codes

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Iov, Florin; Hansen, A.D.; Sørensen, P.

loads of wind turbines. The goal is also to clarify and define possible new directions in the certification process of power plant wind turbines, namely wind turbines, which participate actively in the stabilisation of power systems. Practical experience shows that there is a need...... challenges for the design of both the electrical system and the mechanical structure of wind turbines. An overview over the frequency of grid faults and the grid connection requirements in different relevant countries is done in this report. The most relevant study cases for the quantification of the loads......The present report is a part of the research project "Grid fault and design basis for wind turbine" supported by Energinet.dk through the grant PSO F&U 6319. The objective of this project is to investigate into the consequences of the new grid connection requirements for the fatigue and extreme...

IL-17-producing NKT cells depend exclusively on IL-7 for homeostasis and survival.

Science.gov (United States)

Webster, K E; Kim, H-O; Kyparissoudis, K; Corpuz, T M; Pinget, G V; Uldrich, A P; Brink, R; Belz, G T; Cho, J-H; Godfrey, D I; Sprent, J

2014-09-01

Natural killer T (NKT) cells are innate-like T cells that rapidly recognize pathogens and produce cytokines that shape the ensuing immune response. IL-17-producing NKT cells are enriched in barrier tissues, such as the lung, skin, and peripheral lymph nodes, and the factors that maintain this population in the periphery have not been elucidated. Here we show that NKT17 cells deviate from other NKT cells in their survival requirements. In contrast to conventional NKT cells that are maintained by IL-15, RORγt(+) NKT cells are IL-15 independent and instead rely completely on IL-7. IL-7 initiates a T-cell receptor-independent (TCR-independent) expansion of NKT17 cells, thus supporting their homeostasis. Without IL-7, survival is dramatically impaired, yet residual cells remain lineage committed with no downregulation of RORγt evident. Their preferential response to IL-7 does not reflect enhanced signaling through STAT proteins, but instead is modulated via the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. The ability to compete for IL-7 is dependent on high-density IL-7 receptor expression, which would promote uptake of low levels of IL-7 produced in the non-lymphoid sites of lung and skin. This dependence on IL-7 is also reported for RORγt(+) innate lymphoid cells and CD4(+) Th17 cells, and suggests common survival requirements for functionally similar cells.

Tourism is a Spatial Phenomenon Il turismo è un fenomeno spaziale

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Pasquale Boccagna

2010-11-01

che attiva un processo di spesa di parte del suo reddito in un luogo diverso dalla sua abituale dimora. La scelta della destinazione in cui fruire dei servizi turistici e svolgere le attività collaterali di consumo è il frutto di un processo decisionale complesso basato sulla selezione competitiva tra soluzioni alternative che siano in grado di rispondere ad un insieme di bisogni ed aspirazioni a parità di costi e di livello di servizi richiesti. Successivamente viene preso in esame il modo con cui una località geografica diviene destinazione turistica e come le caratteristiche strutturali (servizi di alloggio, ristorazione, accessori ed infrastrutturali (accessibilità geografica, sociale ed economica possano essere in grado di esprimere un richiamo "emozionale" per il turista; l’incontro tra domanda ed offerta viene visto in un’ottica postfordista secondo il framework “Mutual Value” che assegna un ruolo fondamentale alla componente dei servizi presente nell’offerta di vendita dei beni (materiali ed immateriali per generare un vantaggio competitivo sul mercato. In prosieguo il fenomeno turistico viene messo in relazione al concetto di mobilità territoriale per evidenziare l’impatto che esso genera sul piano ambientale ed urbanistico e la necessità di monitorare il fenomeno e pianificare le azioni di adeguamento strutturale ed infrastrutturale del territorio nella direzione della sostenibilità. Infine verranno esposti dei casi di mobilità urbana ed extraurbana di tipo turistico secondo una prospettiva che vede il trasporto urbano ed extraurbano una vera e propria risorsa (VRIO generatrice di vantaggio competitivo per il sistema locale.

A unified grid current control for grid-interactive DG inverters in microgrids

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Wang, Xiongfei; Loh, Poh Chiang; Blaabjerg, Frede

2015-01-01

This paper proposes a unified grid current control for grid-interactive distributed generation inverters. In the approach, the grid-side current, instead of inverter-side current, is controlled as an inner loop, while the filter capacitor voltage is indirectly regulated through a virtual admittan...... locus analyses in the discrete z-domain are performed for elaborating the controller design. Simulations and experimental results demonstrate the performances of the proposed approach.......This paper proposes a unified grid current control for grid-interactive distributed generation inverters. In the approach, the grid-side current, instead of inverter-side current, is controlled as an inner loop, while the filter capacitor voltage is indirectly regulated through a virtual admittance...... in the outer loop. It, therefore, provides several superior features over traditional control schemes: 1) high-quality grid current in the grid-connected mode, 2) inherent derivative-less virtual output impedance control, and 3) the unified active damping for both grid-connected and islanded operations. Root...

Grid-Voltage-Feedforward Active Damping for Grid-Connected Inverter with LCL Filter

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Lu, Minghui; Wang, Xiongfei; Blaabjerg, Frede

2016-01-01

For the grid-connected voltage source inverters, the feedforward scheme of grid voltage is commonly adopted to mitigate the current distortion caused by grid background voltages harmonics. This paper investigates the grid-voltage-feedforward active damping for grid connected inverter with LCL...... filter. It reveals that proportional feedforward control can not only fulfill the mitigation of grid disturbance, but also offer damping effects on the LCL filter resonance. Digital delays are intrinsic to digital controlled inverters; with these delays, the feedforward control can be equivalent...

A roadmap for caGrid, an enterprise Grid architecture for biomedical research.

Science.gov (United States)

Saltz, Joel; Hastings, Shannon; Langella, Stephen; Oster, Scott; Kurc, Tahsin; Payne, Philip; Ferreira, Renato; Plale, Beth; Goble, Carole; Ervin, David; Sharma, Ashish; Pan, Tony; Permar, Justin; Brezany, Peter; Siebenlist, Frank; Madduri, Ravi; Foster, Ian; Shanbhag, Krishnakant; Mead, Charlie; Chue Hong, Neil

2008-01-01

caGrid is a middleware system which combines the Grid computing, the service oriented architecture, and the model driven architecture paradigms to support development of interoperable data and analytical resources and federation of such resources in a Grid environment. The functionality provided by caGrid is an essential and integral component of the cancer Biomedical Informatics Grid (caBIG) program. This program is established by the National Cancer Institute as a nationwide effort to develop enabling informatics technologies for collaborative, multi-institutional biomedical research with the overarching goal of accelerating translational cancer research. Although the main application domain for caGrid is cancer research, the infrastructure provides a generic framework that can be employed in other biomedical research and healthcare domains. The development of caGrid is an ongoing effort, adding new functionality and improvements based on feedback and use cases from the community. This paper provides an overview of potential future architecture and tooling directions and areas of improvement for caGrid and caGrid-like systems. This summary is based on discussions at a roadmap workshop held in February with participants from biomedical research, Grid computing, and high performance computing communities.

Newly qualified teachers training: analysis of the Italian model in light of scientific literature and international experiences

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Giuseppina Rita Mangione

2016-07-01

Full Text Available Induction represents an important phase of a teacher’s professional life corresponding to the transition to the teaching profession for newly qualified teachers. Effective induction programs should provide all new teachers with systematic personal, social and professional support in the early years of the career. The reformed Italian induction program set up by the School Personnel Directorate General of the Ministry of Education and implemented by Indire involved about 120.000 teachers since its introduction in 2014-2015. This paper presents the induction model and discusses its foundational characteristics in light of the national and international literature in the field.Anno di formazione e prova: analisi del modello italiano alla luce della letteratura scientifica e delle esperienze internazionaliL’immissione in ruolo rappresenta una fase importante della vita professionale di un docente. Modelli efficaci di formazione per i neoassunti dovrebbero fornire strumenti di azione e di riflessione, sul piano professionale, organizzativo e sociale, di orientamento per la loro carriera. Il percorso “Neoassunti” realizzato dal Ministero dell’Istruzione, dell’Università e della Ricerca e da Indire ha coinvolto ad oggi più di 120.000 docenti neo immessi in ruolo in un rinnovato modello di induction dalla sua introduzione nel 2014-2015. Il presente articolo ne presenta la struttura portante e gli elementi cardine alla luce della letteratura nazionale ed internazionale in materia di induction, esplicitando e giustificando le scelte fatte.

Il paesaggio dell’architettura

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Paolo Zermani

2015-11-01

Full Text Available l saggio si articola come un’itinerario tra alcuni progetti italiani proposti come “occasioni di applicazione di un modo d’intendere l’architettura nel rapporto con il paesaggio smarrito, che cambia, ma potrebbe custodire ancora i valori di ciò che Heidegger definiva il “soggiorno”: la riconoscibilità intesa come misura”. Le architetture, come strumenti di conoscenza dello spazio, entrano nel paesaggio per diventarne speciali “misuratori”.Partendo dai luoghi del paesaggio padano, Noceto, con il Nuovo Municipio, con la minimale Cappella della Madonna, con il Padiglione privato, e Varano, con la Casa dal grande occhio spalancato sul bosco, alle terre umbre, con la Chiesa ed il Centro Parrocchiale di Perugia ed il Cimitero di Sansepolcro, si propone un percorso di ricerca di una identità dell’architettura italiana contemporanea nella dimensione paesaggistica. 

Urban micro-grids

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Faure, Maeva; Salmon, Martin; El Fadili, Safae; Payen, Luc; Kerlero, Guillaume; Banner, Arnaud; Ehinger, Andreas; Illouz, Sebastien; Picot, Roland; Jolivet, Veronique; Michon Savarit, Jeanne; Strang, Karl Axel

2017-02-01

ENEA Consulting published the results of a study on urban micro-grids conducted in partnership with the Group ADP, the Group Caisse des Depots, ENEDIS, Omexom, Total and the Tuck Foundation. This study offers a vision of the definition of an urban micro-grid, the value brought by a micro-grid in different contexts based on real case studies, and the upcoming challenges that micro-grid stakeholders will face (regulation, business models, technology). The electric production and distribution system, as the backbone of an increasingly urbanized and energy dependent society, is urged to shift towards a more resilient, efficient and environment-friendly infrastructure. Decentralisation of electricity production into densely populated areas is a promising opportunity to achieve this transition. A micro-grid enhances local production through clustering electricity producers and consumers within a delimited electricity network; it has the ability to disconnect from the main grid for a limited period of time, offering an energy security service to its customers during grid outages for example. However: The islanding capability is an inherent feature of the micro-grid concept that leads to a significant premium on electricity cost, especially in a system highly reliant on intermittent electricity production. In this case, a smart grid, with local energy production and no islanding capability, can be customized to meet relevant sustainability and cost savings goals at lower costs For industrials, urban micro-grids can be economically profitable in presence of high share of reliable energy production and thermal energy demand micro-grids face strong regulatory challenges that should be overcome for further development Whether islanding is or is not implemented into the system, end-user demand for a greener, more local, cheaper and more reliable energy, as well as additional services to the grid, are strong drivers for local production and consumption. In some specific cases

Grid Architecture 2

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Taft, Jeffrey D. [Pacific Northwest National Lab. (PNNL), Richland, WA (United States)

2016-01-01

The report describes work done on Grid Architecture under the auspices of the Department of Electricity Office of Electricity Delivery and Reliability in 2015. As described in the first Grid Architecture report, the primary purpose of this work is to provide stakeholder insight about grid issues so as to enable superior decision making on their part. Doing this requires the creation of various work products, including oft-times complex diagrams, analyses, and explanations. This report provides architectural insights into several important grid topics and also describes work done to advance the science of Grid Architecture as well.

GridOrbit public display

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Ramos, Juan David Hincapie; Tabard, Aurélien; Bardram, Jakob

2010-01-01

We introduce GridOrbit, a public awareness display that visualizes the activity of a community grid used in a biology laboratory. This community grid executes bioin-formatics algorithms and relies on users to donate CPU cycles to the grid. The goal of GridOrbit is to create a shared awareness about...

Aspirin induces IL-4 production: augmented IL-4 production in aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease

Science.gov (United States)

Kong, Su-Kang; Soo Kim, Byung; Gi Uhm, Tae; Soo Chang, Hun; Sook Park, Jong; Woo Park, Sung; Park, Choon-Sik; Chung, Il Yup

2016-01-01

Aspirin hypersensitivity is a hallmark of aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD), a clinical syndrome characterized by the severe inflammation of the respiratory tract after ingestion of cyclooxygenase-1 inhibitors. We investigated the capacity of aspirin to induce interleukin-4 (IL-4) production in inflammatory cells relevant to AERD pathogenesis and examined the associated biochemical and molecular pathways. We also compared IL-4 production in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from patients with AERD vs aspirin-tolerant asthma (ATA) upon exposure to aspirin. Aspirin induced IL-4 expression and activated the IL-4 promoter in a report assay. The capacity of aspirin to induce IL-4 expression correlated with its activity to activate mitogen-activated protein kinases, to form DNA–protein complexes on P elements in the IL-4 promoter and to synthesize nuclear factor of activated T cells, critical transcription factors for IL-4 transcription. Of clinical importance, aspirin upregulated IL-4 production twice as much in PBMCs from patients with AERD compared with PBMCs from patients with ATA. Our results suggest that IL-4 is an inflammatory component mediating intolerance reactions to aspirin, and thus is crucial for AERD pathogenesis. PMID:27534531

Smart Grid: Network simulator for smart grid test-bed

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lai, L C; Ong, H S; Che, Y X; Do, N Q; Ong, X J

2013-01-01

Smart Grid become more popular, a smaller scale of smart grid test-bed is set up at UNITEN to investigate the performance and to find out future enhancement of smart grid in Malaysia. The fundamental requirement in this project is design a network with low delay, no packet drop and with high data rate. Different type of traffic has its own characteristic and is suitable for different type of network and requirement. However no one understands the natural of traffic in smart grid. This paper presents the comparison between different types of traffic to find out the most suitable traffic for the optimal network performance.

IL-6 Improves Energy and Glucose Homeostasis in Obesity via Enhanced Central IL-6 trans-Signaling.

Science.gov (United States)

Timper, Katharina; Denson, Jesse Lee; Steculorum, Sophie Marie; Heilinger, Christian; Engström-Ruud, Linda; Wunderlich, Claudia Maria; Rose-John, Stefan; Wunderlich, F Thomas; Brüning, Jens Claus

2017-04-11

Interleukin (IL)-6 engages similar signaling mechanisms to leptin. Here, we find that central application of IL-6 in mice suppresses feeding and improves glucose tolerance. In contrast to leptin, whose action is attenuated in obesity, the ability of IL-6 to suppress feeding is enhanced in obese mice. IL-6 suppresses feeding in the absence of neuronal IL-6-receptor (IL-6R) expression in hypothalamic or all forebrain neurons of mice. Conversely, obese mice exhibit increased soluble IL-6R levels in the cerebrospinal fluid. Blocking IL-6 trans-signaling in the CNS abrogates the ability of IL-6 to suppress feeding. Furthermore, gp130 expression is enhanced in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVH) of obese mice, and deletion of gp130 in the PVH attenuates the beneficial central IL-6 effects on metabolism. Collectively, these experiments indicate that IL-6 trans-signaling is enhanced in the CNS of obese mice, allowing IL-6 to exert its beneficial metabolic effects even under conditions of leptin resistance. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

IL-6 Improves Energy and Glucose Homeostasis in Obesity via Enhanced Central IL-6 trans-Signaling

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Katharina Timper

2017-04-01

Full Text Available Interleukin (IL-6 engages similar signaling mechanisms to leptin. Here, we find that central application of IL-6 in mice suppresses feeding and improves glucose tolerance. In contrast to leptin, whose action is attenuated in obesity, the ability of IL-6 to suppress feeding is enhanced in obese mice. IL-6 suppresses feeding in the absence of neuronal IL-6-receptor (IL-6R expression in hypothalamic or all forebrain neurons of mice. Conversely, obese mice exhibit increased soluble IL-6R levels in the cerebrospinal fluid. Blocking IL-6 trans-signaling in the CNS abrogates the ability of IL-6 to suppress feeding. Furthermore, gp130 expression is enhanced in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVH of obese mice, and deletion of gp130 in the PVH attenuates the beneficial central IL-6 effects on metabolism. Collectively, these experiments indicate that IL-6 trans-signaling is enhanced in the CNS of obese mice, allowing IL-6 to exert its beneficial metabolic effects even under conditions of leptin resistance.

Diagnostic value of combined determination of serum and chest fluid adenosine deaminase (ADA), IL-2, IL-6, IL-10 contents for differentiation of tuberculous from malignant pleural effusion

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wu Jiaming; Wang Limin

2005-01-01

Objective: To investigate the possible diagnostic value of combined determination of serum and chest fluid contents of ADA, IL-2, IL-6, IL-10 in patients with tuberculous and malignant pleural effusion. Methods: Serum and chest fluid ADA (with biochemical method), IL-2, IL-6, IL-10 (with ELISA) contents were measured in 56 patients with tuberculosis pleural effusion, 53 patients with malignant effusion and 30 controls (in serum only). The receiving operative characteristic (ROC) curve for each parameter was analyzed for study of respective area under curse (Auc). Results: The serum IL-6 levels in both groups of patients were significantly higher than those in the controls (P<0.05). The chest fluid contents of ADA, IL-2, IL-6 and IL-10 in patients with tuberculous effusion were all significantly higher than those in patients with malignancies (P<0.05). The Auc in the ROC was largest in the case of ADA, followed by IL-10, IL-6 with IL-2 the least. Conclusion: Determination of chest fluid ADA, IL-2, IL-6, IL-10 contents was helpful in the differentiation of tuberculous from malignant pleural effusion. Combined determination of chest fluid ADA and IL-10 provided the highest accuracy rate for differentional diagnosis. (authors)

Grid Voltage Modulated Control of Grid-Connected Voltage Source Inverters under Unbalanced Grid Conditions

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Li, Mingshen; Gui, Yonghao; Quintero, Juan Carlos Vasquez

2017-01-01

In this paper, an improved grid voltage modulated control (GVM) with power compensation is proposed for grid-connected voltage inverters when the grid voltage is unbalanced. The objective of the proposed control is to remove the power ripple and to improve current quality. Three power compensation...... objectives are selected to eliminate the negative sequence components of currents. The modified GVM method is designed to obtain two separate second-order systems for not only the fast convergence rate of the instantaneous active and reactive powers but also the robust performance. In addition, this method...

EASE-Grid 2.0: Incremental but Significant Improvements for Earth-Gridded Data Sets

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Matthew H. Savoie

2012-03-01

Full Text Available Defined in the early 1990s for use with gridded satellite passive microwave data, the Equal-Area Scalable Earth Grid (EASE-Grid was quickly adopted and used for distribution of a variety of satellite and in situ data sets. Conceptually easy to understand, EASE-Grid suffers from limitations that make it impossible to format in the widely popular GeoTIFF convention without reprojection. Importing EASE-Grid data into standard mapping software packages is nontrivial and error-prone. This article defines a standard for an improved EASE-Grid 2.0 definition, addressing how the changes rectify issues with the original grid definition. Data distributed using the EASE-Grid 2.0 standard will be easier for users to import into standard software packages and will minimize common reprojection errors that users had encountered with the original EASE-Grid definition.

Ambiguities in the grid-inefficiency correction for Frisch-Grid Ionization Chambers

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Al-Adili, A.; Hambsch, F.-J.; Bencardino, R.; Oberstedt, S.; Pomp, S.

2012-01-01

Ionization chambers with Frisch grids have been very successfully applied to neutron-induced fission-fragment studies during the past 20 years. They are radiation resistant and can be easily adapted to the experimental conditions. The use of Frisch grids has the advantage to remove the angular dependency from the charge induced on the anode plate. However, due to the Grid Inefficiency (GI) in shielding the charges, the anode signal remains slightly angular dependent. The correction for the GI is, however, essential to determine the correct energy of the ionizing particles. GI corrections can amount to a few percent of the anode signal. Presently, two contradicting correction methods are considered in literature. The first method adding the angular-dependent part of the signal to the signal pulse height; the second method subtracting the former from the latter. Both additive and subtractive approaches were investigated in an experiment where a Twin Frisch-Grid Ionization Chamber (TFGIC) was employed to detect the spontaneous fission fragments (FF) emitted by a 252 Cf source. Two parallel-wire grids with different wire spacing (1 and 2 mm, respectively), were used individually, in the same chamber side. All the other experimental conditions were unchanged. The 2 mm grid featured more than double the GI of the 1 mm grid. The induced charge on the anode in both measurements was compared, before and after GI correction. Before GI correction, the 2 mm grid resulted in a lower pulse-height distribution than the 1 mm grid. After applying both GI corrections to both measurements only the additive approach led to consistent grid independent pulse-height distributions. The application of the subtractive correction on the contrary led to inconsistent, grid-dependent results. It is also shown that the impact of either of the correction methods is small on the FF mass distributions of 235 U(n th , f).

25-Hydroxyvitamin D, IL-31, and IL-33 in Children with Allergic Disease of the Airways

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Anna Bonanno

2014-01-01

Full Text Available Low vitamin D is involved in allergic asthma and rhinitis. IL-31 and IL-33 correlate with Th2-associated cytokines in allergic disease. We investigated whether low vitamin D is linked with circulating IL-31 and IL-33 in children with allergic disease of the airways. 25-Hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH Vit D], IL-31, and IL-33 plasma levels were measured in 28 controls (HC, 11 allergic rhinitis (AR patients, and 35 allergic asthma with rhinitis (AAR patients. We found significant lower levels of 25(OH Vit D in AR and in AAR than in HC. IL-31 and IL-33 plasma levels significantly increased in AAR than HC. IL-31 and IL-33 positively correlated in AR and AAR. 25(OH Vit D deficient AAR had higher levels of blood eosinophils, exacerbations, disease duration, and total IgE than patients with insufficient or sufficient 25(OH Vit D. In AAR 25(OH Vit D levels inversely correlated with total allergen sIgE score and total atopy index. IL-31 and IL-33 did not correlate with 25(OH Vit D in AR and AAR. In conclusion, low levels of 25(OH Vit D might represent a risk factor for the development of concomitant asthma and rhinitis in children with allergic disease of the airways independently of IL-31/IL-33 Th2 activity.

Il colore delle cose

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Vincenzo Vitiello

2017-09-01

Full Text Available Tema di questo saggio è l’operare della riflessione. Vitiello, dopo essersi soffermato sulla «frattura» tra la riflessione (il «vedersi» e il suo operare in Valéry, si concentra sul processo, descritto da Hegel nella Fenomenologia dello spirito, dell’esperienza della coscienza che s’eleva a coscienza dell’esperienza. La conclusione è fortemente critica: Hegel fallisce la mèta nel punto stesso in cui la raggiunge. Infatti nel sapere assoluto, nella visione compiuta, perfetta di sé, della luce che vede luce, viene meno proprio l’esperienza della coscienza, il suo divenire, la sua «imperfezione». La critica a Hegel, passando attraverso Nietzsche, si amplia a critica del linguaggio, in particolare del linguaggio dell’«essere» e  dell’«è», e delle tautologie heideggeriane quali «das Ereignis ereignet», «das Ding dingt», «die Welt weltet». Un importante passaggio del testo è quello sul linguaggio teatrale in cui la parola sembra riacquistare il legame originale tra la voce e il gesto, che tuttavia restano divisi, perché proprio il medio che li lega, il «colore» della parola, è «fuori» della parola e del gesto. Resta la parola dell’agire, dei pragmata, in cui il fare si espone nella sua modalità più propria: nell’immediatezza del patire: il grido di dolore; o nella mediatezza riflessiva dell’imperativo morale: Handle! I due opposti «colori» delle cose.

Counterbalancing of TH2-driven allergic airway inflammation by IL-12 does not require IL-10.

Science.gov (United States)

Tournoy, K G; Kips, J C; Pauwels, R A

2001-03-01

Asthma is characterized by allergen-induced airway inflammation orchestrated by TH2 cells. The TH1-promoting cytokine IL-12 is capable of inhibiting the TH2-driven allergen-induced airway changes in mice and is therefore regarded as an interesting strategy for treating asthma. The antiallergic effects of IL-12 are only partially dependent of IFN-gamma. Because IL-12 is a potent inducer of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10, the aim of the present study was to investigate in vivo whether the antiallergic effects of IL-12 are mediated through IL-10. C57BL/6J-IL-10 knock-out (IL-10(-/-)) mice were sensitized intraperitoneally to ovalbumin (OVA) and subsequently exposed from day 14 to day 21 to aerosolized OVA (1%). IL-12 was administered intraperitoneally during sensitization, subsequent OVA exposure, or both. IL-12 inhibited the OVA-induced airway eosinophilia, despite the absence of IL-10. Moreover, a shift from a TH2 inflammatory pattern toward a TH1 reaction was observed, with concomitant pronounced mononuclear peribronchial inflammation after IL-12 treatment. Allergen-specific IgE synthesis was completely suppressed only when IL-12 was administered along with the allergen sensitization. Furthermore, treating the animals with IL-12 at the time of the secondary allergen challenge resulted not only in a significant suppression of the airway responsiveness but also in an important IFN-gamma-associated toxicity. These results indicate that IL-12 is able to inhibit allergen-induced airway changes, even in the absence of IL-10. In addition, our results raise concerns regarding the redirection of TH2 inflammation by TH1-inducing therapies because treatment with IL-12 resulted not only in a disappearance of the TH2 inflammation but also in a TH1-driven inflammatory pulmonary pathology.

[Cytokines and malaria. A study of TNF-alpha, IL1-beta, IL6 and IL2R in 28 patients].

Science.gov (United States)

Nicolas, P; Hovette, P; Merouze, F; Touze, J E; Martet, G

1994-01-01

Authors have studied TNF alpha, IL1 bêta, IL6 and RIL2s in 28 malaria illness patients. Increased levels of TNF, IL1 bêta and RIL2s in serum, are observed on admission to hospital. These cytokine levels are decreased, eight days later, after patients are treated. In discussion, TNF levels as a prognosis component is evocated.

Profile of IL-2, IL-4, IL-10, IFN- ? , TNF- ? and KC-like cytokines in pregnant bitches

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

M.A.R. Feliciano

2014-08-01

Full Text Available The aim of this study was to determine the profile of IL-2, IL-4, IL-10, IFN-γ, and TNF-α cytokines and KC-like cells (natural killer in pregnant bitches, unpublished values for the species. A total of 27 females of the Shi Tzu, Pug, English Bulldog and French breeds, weighing 4-20kg and aged 4-6 years were used. Blood samples were collected from bitches during the anestrous and on the 2nd, 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th week of pregnancy. Serum levels of cytokines were measured by panel MILLIPLEX MAP (CCYTO-90K, MILLIPORE, Billerica, Massachusetts, USA validated for dogs. Twenty four females showed physiological pregnancy and three bitches showed pathological pregnancy. There was no difference between cytokine values during anestrous and gestational weeks of bitches (P>0.05. However, it was possible to verify the physiological behavior of serum levels during modulation of immune response in the gestational process of animals. In animals with gestational disorders, abnormal values for IL-2, IL-4 and INF-y were noted. It was concluded that serum levels of cytokines evaluated in pregnant bitches can help the better understanding of physiological and pathological gestational processes and correlated immunology in this species.

The Theory of Evolution in contemporary culture. Biological evolution and cultural evolution [with english version

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Giorgio Forti

2013-01-01

Full Text Available La teoria dell’Evoluzione biologica alla luce delle conoscenze acquisite dalla biologia molecolare, dall’immunologia e  dall’embriologia: la “mutazione adattativa”, sua scoperta nei batteri e sua realtà negli organismi superiori. Statistica degli eventi rari e “piano intelligente”. Eredità dei caratteri acquisiti durante l’epigenesi: Darwin e Lamarck. Struttura del cervello e mente umana: il ruolo dell’eredità biologica e quello di ambiente, apprendimento ed esperienze nella formazione ed evoluzione della mente personale. Arbitrarietà e ridondanza nell’evoluzione biologica e nell’evoluzione del linguaggio umano.

Cytokine vaccination: neutralising IL-1alpha autoantibodies induced by immunisation with homologous IL-1alpha

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Svenson, M; Hansen, M B; Thomsen, Allan Randrup

2000-01-01

with IL-1alpha coupled to purified protein derivative of tuberculin (PPD). Both unprimed and primed animals developed IgG aAb to IL-1alpha. These aAb persisted at high levels more than 100 days after vaccination and did not cross-react with murine IL-1beta. The induced anti-IL-1alpha aAb inhibited binding...... in mice by vaccination with recombinant murine IL-1alpha conjugated to PPD. Studies of the effects of IL-1alpha aAb in such animals may help clarify the importance of naturally occurring IL-1alpha aAb in humans and permit the evaluation of future therapies with cytokine aAb in patients...

Clinical value of determination of changes of serum Gas, IL-2, IL-10 and IL-18 levels after transfusion of Red blood cells in patients with peptic ulcer

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Liu Tingting; Li Xinghua

2011-01-01

Objective: To investigation the changes of serum Gas, IL-2, IL-10 and IL-18 contents after transfusion of red blood cells in patients with peptic ulcer. Methods: Serum Gas, IL-2, IL-10 (with RIA), serum IL-18 (with ELISA) levels were measured in 31 patients with peptic ulcer and 35 controls. Results: Before transfusion,the serum IL-2 level in the patients was significantly lower than that in controls (P 0.05). Conclusion: Detection of serum Gas, IL-2, IL-10 and IL-18 levels is clinically useful for monitoring progress and favourable prognosis of patients with peptic ulcer possess important clinical value. (authors)

Grid Transmission Expansion Planning Model Based on Grid Vulnerability

Science.gov (United States)

Tang, Quan; Wang, Xi; Li, Ting; Zhang, Quanming; Zhang, Hongli; Li, Huaqiang

2018-03-01

Based on grid vulnerability and uniformity theory, proposed global network structure and state vulnerability factor model used to measure different grid models. established a multi-objective power grid planning model which considering the global power network vulnerability, economy and grid security constraint. Using improved chaos crossover and mutation genetic algorithm to optimize the optimal plan. For the problem of multi-objective optimization, dimension is not uniform, the weight is not easy given. Using principal component analysis (PCA) method to comprehensive assessment of the population every generation, make the results more objective and credible assessment. the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed model are validated by simulation results of Garver-6 bus system and Garver-18 bus.

Clinical significance of determination of changes of EPS IL-1β, IL-2, IL-10 and LDH5/LDH1 levels in patients with chronic prostatitis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chen Yongchang

2009-01-01

Objective: To investigate the clinical significance of the changes of expressed prostatic secretion IL-1β, IL-2, IL-10 and LDH5/LDH1 levels in patients with chronic prostatitis. Methods: Expressed prostatic secretion IL-1β, IL-2, IL-10 (with Radioimmunoassay) and LDH5/LDH1 (with cellulose acetate membrane electrophoresis) levels were determined in 32 patients with chronic prostatitis and 35 controls. These 32 patients were of 3 groups: 1)chronic bacterial prostatitis (CBP, n=10) 2) chronic pelvic pain syndrome IIIA (CPPS IIIA n=9) 3) CPPSIIIB n=13. Results: Expressed prostatic secretion levels of IL-1β, IL-2 and LDH5/LDH1 were significantly higher in patients with chronic bacterial prostatitis (CBP) groups than those in controls (all P 0.05). But the expressed prostatic secretion levels of IL-10 were still significantly lower in patients with chronic nonbacterial prostatitis, chronic pelvic pain syndrome(CPPSIIIB) groups than those in controls (all P<0.05). Conclusion: There were changes of expressed prostatic secretion IL-1β, IL-2, IL-10 and LDH5/LDH1 levels in patients with chronic prostatitis. Combined determination of the expressed prostatic secretion 4 markers levels is valuable for the diagnosis of chronic prostatitis and CPPSIII and for differentiation of CPPSIII types. (authors)

Endogenous IL-1 in cognitive function and anxiety: a study in IL-1RI-/- mice.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Carol L Murray

Full Text Available Interleukin-1 (IL-1 is a key pro-inflammatory cytokine, produced predominantly by peripheral immune cells but also by glia and some neuronal populations within the brain. Its signalling is mediated via the binding of IL-1α or IL-1β to the interleukin-1 type one receptor (IL-1RI. IL-1 plays a key role in inflammation-induced sickness behaviour, resulting in depressed locomotor activity, decreased exploration, reduced food and water intake and acute cognitive deficits. Conversely, IL-1 has also been suggested to facilitate hippocampal-dependent learning and memory: IL-1RI(-/- mice have been reported to show deficits on tasks of visuospatial learning and memory. We sought to investigate whether there is a generalised hippocampal deficit in IL-1RI(-/- animals. Therefore, in the current study we compared wildtype (WT mice to IL-1RI(-/- mice using a variety of hippocampal-dependent learning and memory tasks, as well as tests of anxiety and locomotor activity. We found no difference in performance of the IL-1RI(-/- mice compared to WT mice in a T-maze working memory task. In addition, the IL-1RI(-/- mice showed normal learning in various spatial reference memory tasks including the Y-maze and Morris mater maze, although there was a subtle deficit in choice behaviour in a spatial discrimination, beacon watermaze task. IL-1RI(-/- mice also showed normal memory for visuospatial context in the contextual fear conditioning paradigm. In the open field, IL-1RI(-/- mice showed a significant increase in distance travelled and rearing behaviour compared to the WT mice and in the elevated plus-maze spent more time in the open arms than did the WT animals. The data suggest that, contrary to prior studies, IL-1RI(-/- mice are not robustly impaired on hippocampal-dependent memory and learning but do display open field hyperactivity and decreased anxiety compared to WT mice. The results argue for a careful evaluation of the roles of endogenous IL-1 in hippocampal

GEOPOI: la cartografia dell’ipertesto

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Antonio Bottaro

2007-03-01

Full Text Available L’insieme delle informazioni distribuite nei milioni di sistemi informativi e di basi dati oggigiorno ha assunto il ruolo di un enorme ipertesto, grazie ai collegamenti ipertestuali (iperlink attivi nell’ambito del World Wide Web, che permettono all’utente di spostarsi tra argomenti correlati,indipendentemente dall’ordine in cui questi vengono presentati. Sinora il rivoluzionario concetto di ipertesto e di navigazione e fruizione delle informazioni tramite link è stato applicato estensivamente essenzialmente solo nell’ambito dei dati alfanumerici. Oramai, però, è noto che una elevatissima percentuale delle informazioni alfanumeriche mondiali sono in qualche modo riferibili/georiferibili al territorio. Molto dell’ipertesto è quindi georiferibile su di esso. Lungi dall’essere una mera operazione logica di mapping di dati, il georiferimento permette di inquadrare il dato alfanumerico in un nuovo ambiente, specializzato per navigazioni, ricerche e analisi su base territoriale. Il georiferimento arricchisce quindi il dato alfanumerico di ulteriore e nuova valenza, lo rivitalizza accrescendone la semantica. Inoltre mantenendo anche nel nuovo ambiente cartografico la logica degli iperlink, sarebbe agevole poter transitare dalla cartografia nell’ipertesto.

Tra utopia e rivoluzione: le visioni di Diego Rivera al Rockefeller Center di New York

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Amalda Cuka

2016-11-01

Full Text Available I murales eseguiti da Diego Rivera (1886–1957 al Rockefeller Center di New York nel 1933 sono fra le più note opere d’arte scomparse. Ad aver reso celebre il dipinto non è stato il successo di pubblico, data la rimozione del lavoro ancora in corso d’opera, ma il ricchissimo dibattito alimentato dalla stampa intorno alla concezione dell’immagine, considerata negli Stati Uniti totalmente rivoluzionaria per la particolare tecnica dell’affresco utilizzata da Rivera, per i riferimenti all’arte precolombiana e per le idee politiche esposte. Un’occasione di riflessione è offerta in questa sede dall’attenzione che uno dei principali organi di stampa americani, il New York Times, ha dedicato all’argomento: dalla lettura dei numerosi interventi emerge, da una parte, la capacità di Rivera di entrare in comunicazione con un vasto pubblico, e dall’altra il ruolo avuto dalla stampa nella diffusione - quasi involontaria - del suo messaggio. Rivera è riuscito a raggiungere in tal modo, almeno parzialmente, il suo scopo: l’opera non è stata accessibile al grande pubblico, ma la conoscenza dei principi che voleva celebrare si è diffusa in maniera ancor più capillare.

Elevated levels of circulating IL-18BP and perturbed regulation of IL-18 in schizophrenia

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Palladino Ilaria

2012-08-01

Full Text Available Abstract Background The pleiotropic pro-inflammatory cytokine Interleukin (IL-18 has been proposed to play a role in schizophrenia, since elevated circulating levels of its protein and altered frequencies of genetic variants in its molecular system are reported in schizophrenic patients. Methods We analyzed 77 patients with schizophrenia diagnosis (SCZ and 77 healthy control subjects (HC for serum concentration of both IL-18 and its natural inhibitor, the IL-18 binding protein (IL-18BP. Results We confirmed that serum levels of total IL-18 are significantly increased in SCZ, as compared to HC. However, due to a highly significant increase in levels of circulating IL-18BP in SCZ, as compared to HC, the levels of free, bioactive IL-18 are not significantly different between the two groups. In addition, the relationships between the levels of IL-18 and its inhibitor, as well as between the two molecules and age appear dissimilar for SCZ and HC. In particular, the elevated levels of IL-18BP, likely a consequence of the body’s attempt to counteract the early prominent inflammation which characterizes schizophrenia, are maintained in earlier and later stages of the disease. However, the IL-18BP elevation appears ineffective to balance the IL-18 system in younger SCZ patients, while in older patients the levels of circulating bioactive IL-18 are comparable to those of HC, if not lower. Conclusions In conclusion, these findings indicate that the IL-18 system is perturbed in schizophrenia, supporting the idea that this pro-inflammatory cytokine might be part of a pathway of genetic and environmental components for vulnerability to the disease.

IL-36γ Is a Strong Inducer of IL-23 in Psoriatic Cells and Activates Angiogenesis

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Charlie Bridgewood

2018-02-01

Full Text Available The IL-1 family member cytokine IL-36γ is recognised as key mediator in the immunopathology of psoriasis, hallmarks of which involve the activation of both resident and infiltrating inflammatory myeloid cells and aberrant angiogenesis. This research demonstrates a role for IL-36γ in both myeloid activation and angiogenesis. We show that IL-36γ induces the production of psoriasis-associated cytokines from macrophages (IL-23 and TNFα and that this response is enhanced in macrophages from psoriasis patients. This effect is specific for IL-36γ and could not be mimicked by other IL-1 family cytokines such as IL-1α. IL-36γ was also demonstrated to induce endothelial tube formation and branching, in a VEGF-A-dependent manner. Furthermore, IL-36γ-stimulated macrophages potently activated endothelial cells and led to increased adherence of monocytes, effects that were markedly more pronounced for psoriatic macrophages. Interestingly, regardless of stimulus, psoriasis monocytes showed increased adherence to both the stimulated and unstimulated endothelium when compared with monocytes from healthy individuals. Collectively, these findings show that IL-36γ has the potential to enhance endothelium directed leucocyte infiltration into the skin and strengthen the IL-23/IL-17 pathway adding to the growing evidence of pathogenetic roles for IL-36γ in psoriatic responses. Our findings also point to a cellular response, which could potentially explain cardiovascular comorbidities in psoriasis in the form of endothelial activation and increased monocyte adherence.

IL-36γ Is a Strong Inducer of IL-23 in Psoriatic Cells and Activates Angiogenesis.

Science.gov (United States)

Bridgewood, Charlie; Fearnley, Gareth W; Berekmeri, Anna; Laws, Philip; Macleod, Tom; Ponnambalam, Sreenivasan; Stacey, Martin; Graham, Anne; Wittmann, Miriam

2018-01-01

The IL-1 family member cytokine IL-36γ is recognised as key mediator in the immunopathology of psoriasis, hallmarks of which involve the activation of both resident and infiltrating inflammatory myeloid cells and aberrant angiogenesis. This research demonstrates a role for IL-36γ in both myeloid activation and angiogenesis. We show that IL-36γ induces the production of psoriasis-associated cytokines from macrophages (IL-23 and TNFα) and that this response is enhanced in macrophages from psoriasis patients. This effect is specific for IL-36γ and could not be mimicked by other IL-1 family cytokines such as IL-1α. IL-36γ was also demonstrated to induce endothelial tube formation and branching, in a VEGF-A-dependent manner. Furthermore, IL-36γ-stimulated macrophages potently activated endothelial cells and led to increased adherence of monocytes, effects that were markedly more pronounced for psoriatic macrophages. Interestingly, regardless of stimulus, psoriasis monocytes showed increased adherence to both the stimulated and unstimulated endothelium when compared with monocytes from healthy individuals. Collectively, these findings show that IL-36γ has the potential to enhance endothelium directed leucocyte infiltration into the skin and strengthen the IL-23/IL-17 pathway adding to the growing evidence of pathogenetic roles for IL-36γ in psoriatic responses. Our findings also point to a cellular response, which could potentially explain cardiovascular comorbidities in psoriasis in the form of endothelial activation and increased monocyte adherence.

IL-2/anti-IL-2 mAb immunocomplexes: A renascence of IL-2 in cancer immunotherapy?

Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

Tomala, Jakub; Kovář, Marek

2016-01-01

Roč. 5, č. 3 (2016), e1102829 ISSN 2162-402X R&D Projects: GA ČR GA13-12885S; GA MŠk(CZ) ED1.1.00/02.0109 Institutional support: RVO:61388971 Keywords : Anti-IL-2 mAb * cancer immunotherapy * IL-2 Subject RIV: EE - Microbiology, Virology Impact factor: 7.719, year: 2016

A comparison of blood and cerebrospinal fluid cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-18, TNF-α in neonates with perinatal hypoxia

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Darinka Šumanović-Glamuzina

2017-08-01

Full Text Available Perinatal hypoxia-ischemia is a specific and important pathological event in neonatal care practice. The data on relationship between the concentrations of cytokines in blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF and perinatal brain injury are scarce. The aim of this study is to evaluate changes in interleukin (IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-18 and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α levels in newborns with perinatal hypoxia (PNH. CSF and serum samples of 35 term and near-term (35-40 weeks newborns with PNH, at the age of 3-96 hours, were analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Control group consisted of 25 non-asphyxic/non-hypoxic infants of the same age sampled for clinically suspected perinatal meningitis, but proven negative and healthy otherwise. The cytokine values in CSF and serum samples were determined in relation to initial hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE staged according the Sarnat/Sarnat method, and compared with neurological outcome at 12 months of age estimated using Amiel-Tison procedure. The concentrations of IL-6 and TNF-α in serum of PNH patients were significantly higher compared to control group (p = 0.0407 and p = 0.023, respectively. No significant difference between average values of cytokines in relation to the stage of HIE was observed. Significantly higher levels of IL-6 and IL-18 corresponded to a mildly abnormal neurological outcome, while higher levels of IL-6 and TNF-α corresponded to a severely abnormal neurological outcome, at 12 months of age. Elevated serum levels of IL-6 and TNF-α better corresponded with hypoxia/ischemia compared to CSF values, within 96 hours of birth. Also, higher serum levels of IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-18 corresponded better with abnormal neurological outcome at 12 months of age, compared to CSF values.

Grid Databases for Shared Image Analysis in the MammoGrid Project

CERN Document Server

Amendolia, S R; Hauer, T; Manset, D; McClatchey, R; Odeh, M; Reading, T; Rogulin, D; Schottlander, D; Solomonides, T

2004-01-01

The MammoGrid project aims to prove that Grid infrastructures can be used for collaborative clinical analysis of database-resident but geographically distributed medical images. This requires: a) the provision of a clinician-facing front-end workstation and b) the ability to service real-world clinician queries across a distributed and federated database. The MammoGrid project will prove the viability of the Grid by harnessing its power to enable radiologists from geographically dispersed hospitals to share standardized mammograms, to compare diagnoses (with and without computer aided detection of tumours) and to perform sophisticated epidemiological studies across national boundaries. This paper outlines the approach taken in MammoGrid to seamlessly connect radiologist workstations across a Grid using an "information infrastructure" and a DICOM-compliant object model residing in multiple distributed data stores in Italy and the UK

Multigrid on unstructured grids using an auxiliary set of structured grids

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Douglas, C.C.; Malhotra, S.; Schultz, M.H. [Yale Univ., New Haven, CT (United States)

1996-12-31

Unstructured grids do not have a convenient and natural multigrid framework for actually computing and maintaining a high floating point rate on standard computers. In fact, just the coarsening process is expensive for many applications. Since unstructured grids play a vital role in many scientific computing applications, many modifications have been proposed to solve this problem. One suggested solution is to map the original unstructured grid onto a structured grid. This can be used as a fine grid in a standard multigrid algorithm to precondition the original problem on the unstructured grid. We show that unless extreme care is taken, this mapping can lead to a system with a high condition number which eliminates the usefulness of the multigrid method. Theorems with lower and upper bounds are provided. Simple examples show that the upper bounds are sharp.

Asymmetrical Grid Fault Ride-Through Strategy of Three-phase Grid-connected Inverter Considering Network Impedance Impact in Low Voltage Grid

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Guo, Xiaoqiang; Zhang, Xue; Wang, Baocheng

2014-01-01

This letter presents a new control strategy of threephase grid-connected inverter for the positive sequence voltage recovery and negative sequence voltage reduction under asymmetrical grid faults. Unlike the conventional control strategy based on an assumption that the network impedance is mainly...... of the proposed solution for the flexible voltage support in a low-voltage grid, where thenetwork impedance is mainly resistive.......This letter presents a new control strategy of threephase grid-connected inverter for the positive sequence voltage recovery and negative sequence voltage reduction under asymmetrical grid faults. Unlike the conventional control strategy based on an assumption that the network impedance is mainly...... inductive, the proposed control strategy is more flexible and effective by considering the network impedance impact, which is of great importance for the high penetration of grid-connected renewable energy systems into low-voltage grids. The experimental tests are carried out to validate the effectiveness...

Blood concentrations of the cytokines IL-1beta, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-alpha and IFN-gamma during experimentally induced swine dysentery

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Jensen-Waern Marianne

2008-08-01

Full Text Available Abstract Background Knowledge of the cytokine response at infection with Brachyspira hyodysenteriae can help understanding disease mechanisme involved during swine dysentery. Since this knowledge is still limited the aim of the present study was to induce dysentery experimentally in pigs and to monitor the development of important immunoregulatory cytokines in blood collected at various stages of the disease. Methods Ten conventional pigs (~23 kg were orally inoculated with Brachyspira hyodysenteriae B204T. Eight animals developed muco-haemorrhagic diarrhoea with impaired general body condition. Blood was sampled before inoculation and repeatedly during acute dysentery and recovery periods and cytokine levels of IL-1β, IL-6, Il-10, TNF-α and IFN-γ were measured by ELISA. Results IL-1β was increased at the beginning of the dysentery period and coincided with the appearance of Serum amyloid A and clinical signs of disease. TNF-α increased in all animals after inoculation, with a peak during dysentery, and IL-6 was found in 3 animals during dysentery and in the 2 animals that did not develop clinical signs of disease. IL-10 was found in all sick animals during the recovery period. IFN-γ was not detected on any occasion. Conclusion B. hyodysenteriae inoculation induced production of systemic levels of IL-1β during the dysentery period and increased levels of IL-10 coincided with recovery from dysentery.

The GRID seminar

CERN Multimedia

CERN. Geneva HR-RFA

2006-01-01

The Grid infrastructure is a key part of the computing environment for the simulation, processing and analysis of the data of the LHC experiments. These experiments depend on the availability of a worldwide Grid infrastructure in several aspects of their computing model. The Grid middleware will hide much of the complexity of this environment to the user, organizing all the resources in a coherent virtual computer center. The general description of the elements of the Grid, their interconnections and their use by the experiments will be exposed in this talk. The computational and storage capability of the Grid is attracting other research communities beyond the high energy physics. Examples of these applications will be also exposed during the presentation.

Il secondo principio

CERN Document Server

Atkins, Peter W

1988-01-01

L'asimmetria della Natura ; l'indicatore di una trasformazione ; scivolando verso il caos ; la quantificazione del caos ; la potenzialità del caos ; le trasformazioni del caos ; il dominio della temperatura ; caos costtrutivo ; le strutture del caos.

Il corpo narratore

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Ivano Gamelli

2005-09-01

Full Text Available Sapere cosa provo attraverso il mio corpo di fronte all’altro mi permette non solo di capire cosa l'altro prova, soprattutto di generare naturalmente un’effettiva sintonizzazione, di evidenziare e nominare emozioni e sentimenti che in-formano la relazione con quel particolare bambino, adolescente o adulto che sia. Il rapporto con il linguaggio del corpo, prima ancora di divenire pratica psicopedagogica, è una 'pedagogia dell'esistenza'. Una pratica della nostra quotidianità che possiamo affinare oltre e prima che essa diventi pratica psicopedagogica.

Importance of Grid Center Arrangement

Science.gov (United States)

Pasaogullari, O.; Usul, N.

2012-12-01

In Digital Elevation Modeling, grid size is accepted to be the most important parameter. Despite the point density and/or scale of the source data, it is freely decided by the user. Most of the time, arrangement of the grid centers are ignored, even most GIS packages omit the choice of grid center coordinate selection. In our study; importance of the arrangement of grid centers is investigated. Using the analogy between "Raster Grid DEM" and "Bitmap Image", importance of placement of grid centers in DEMs are measured. The study has been conducted on four different grid DEMs obtained from a half ellipsoid. These grid DEMs are obtained in such a way that they are half grid size apart from each other. Resulting grid DEMs are investigated through similarity measures. Image processing scientists use different measures to investigate the dis/similarity between the images and the amount of different information they carry. Grid DEMs are projected to a finer grid in order to co-center. Similarity measures are then applied to each grid DEM pairs. These similarity measures are adapted to DEM with band reduction and real number operation. One of the measures gives function graph and the others give measure matrices. Application of similarity measures to six grid DEM pairs shows interesting results. These four different grid DEMs are created with the same method for the same area, surprisingly; thirteen out of 14 measures state that, the half grid size apart grid DEMs are different from each other. The results indicated that although grid DEMs carry mutual information, they have also additional individual information. In other words, half grid size apart constructed grid DEMs have non-redundant information.; Joint Probability Distributions Function Graphs

Initial results of local grid control using wind farms with grid support

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Soerensen, Poul; Hansen, Anca D.; Iov, F.; Blaabjerg, F.

2005-09-01

This report describes initial results with simulation of local grid control using wind farms with grid support. The focus is on simulation of the behaviour of the wind farms when they are isolated from the main grid and establish a local grid together with a few other grid components. The isolated subsystems used in the work presented in this report do not intend to simulate a specific subsystem, but they are extremely simplified single bus bar systems using only a few more components than the wind farm. This approach has been applied to make it easier to understand the dynamics of the subsystem. The main observation is that the fast dynamics of the wind turbines seem to be able to contribute significantly to the grid control, which can be useful where the wind farm is isolated with a subsystem from the main grid with surplus of generation. Thus, the fast down regulation of the wind farm using automatic frequency control can keep the subsystem in operation and thereby improve the reliability of the grid. (LN)

Targeting the IL-17/IL-6 axis can alter growth of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia in vivo/in vitro.

Science.gov (United States)

Zhu, Fang; McCaw, Lindsay; Spaner, David E; Gorczynski, Reginald M

2018-03-01

The tumor microenvironment (TME) is critical to the longevity of tumor B cells in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) and the cytokines they produce including IL-6 are important components of the TME in CLL. We found BMMSCs supported the survival of CLL cells in vitro through an IL-6 dependent mechanism. IL-17 which induces IL-6 generation in a variety of cells increased production of IL-6 both in CLL cells and BMMSCs in vitro. In a xenograft CLL mouse model, BMMSCs and the culture supernatant of BMMSCs increased engraftment of CLL cells through an IL-6 mediated mechanism with human recombinant IL-6 showing similar effects in vivo. Human recombinant IL-17 treatment also increased CLL engraftment in mice through an IL-6 mediated mechanism. Plasma of CLL patients showed elevated levels of both IL-6 and IL-17 by ELISA compared with healthy controls, with levels of IL-6 linearly correlated with IL-17 levels. CLL patients requiring fludarabine based chemotherapy expressed higher levels of IL-6 and IL-17, while CLL patients with the lowest levels of IgA/IgM had higher levels of IL-6, but not IL-17. These data imply an important role for the IL-17/IL-6 axis in CLL which could be therapeutic targets. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

How should grid operators govern smart grid innovation projects? An embedded case study approach

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Reuver, Mark de; Lei, Telli van der; Lukszo, Zofia

2016-01-01

Grid operators increasingly have to collaborate with other actors in order to realize smart grid innovations. For routine maintenance, grid operators typically acquire technologies in one-off transactions, but the innovative nature of smart grid projects may require more collaborate relationships. This paper studies how a transactional versus relational approach to governing smart grid innovation projects affects incentives for other actors to collaborate. We analyse 34 cases of smart grid innovation projects based on extensive archival data as well as interviews. We find that projects relying on relational governance are more likely to provide incentives for collaboration. Especially non-financial incentives such as reputational benefits and shared intellectual property rights are more likely to be found in projects relying on relational governance. Policy makers that wish to stimulate smart grid innovation projects should consider stimulating long-term relationships between grid operators and third parties, because such relationships are more likely to produce incentives for collaboration. - Highlights: • Smart grids require collaboration between grid operators and other actors. • We contrast transactional and relational governance of smart grid projects. • Long-term relations produce more incentives for smart grid collaboration. • Non-financial incentives are more important in long-term relations. • Policy makers should stimulate long-term relations to stimulate smart grids.

Il Sole, il genoma e Internet strumenti delle revoluzioni scientifiche

CERN Document Server

Dyson, Freeman J

2000-01-01

In queste appassionate conferenze «di soglia» Dyson si sporge sul domani con la visionarietà di un Verne o di un Wells, consapevole però di abbozzare «solo uno dei corsi possibili, tra i milioni di altri che il futuro potrà riservarci». Il nuovo trivio di forze rivoluzionarie che, secondo il modello di Dyson, muoverà lo sviluppo ha nomi noti a tutti, e disputati da molti: energia solare, ingegneria genetica, rete di comunicazione globale. Un loro utilizzo flessibile e sinergico arriverebbe a ridisegnare il paesaggio sociale del pianeta, facendo affluire verso aree depresse risorse ora concentrate in pochi paesi, e ridando vita ovunque all'economia di villaggio. La raccolta di energia da una fonte equidistribuita come la luce solare potrebbe infatti avvenire attraverso coltivazioni arboree manipolate genetica mente allo scopo, con costi sostenibili e senza pregiudizio della ecodiversità. Sia che guardi al prossimo futuro terrestre sia che contempli la prospettiva non troppo lontana di insediamenti uma...

Characterization of Slosh Damping for Ortho-Grid and Iso-Grid Internal Tank Structures

Science.gov (United States)

Westra, Douglas G.; Sansone, Marco D.; Eberhart, Chad J.; West, Jeffrey S.

2016-01-01

Grid stiffened tank structures such as Ortho-Grid and Iso-Grid are widely used in cryogenic tanks for providing stiffening to the tank while reducing mass, compared to tank walls of constant cross-section. If the structure is internal to the tank, it will positively affect the fluid dynamic behavior of the liquid propellant, in regard to fluid slosh damping. As NASA and commercial companies endeavor to explore the solar system, vehicles will by necessity become more mass efficient, and design margin will be reduced where possible. Therefore, if the damping characteristics of the Ortho-Grid and Iso-Grid structure is understood, their positive damping effect can be taken into account in the systems design process. Historically, damping by internal structures has been characterized by rules of thumb and for Ortho-Grid, empirical design tools intended for slosh baffles of much larger cross-section have been used. There is little or no information available to characterize the slosh behavior of Iso-Grid internal structure. Therefore, to take advantage of these structures for their positive damping effects, there is much need for obtaining additional data and tools to characterize them. Recently, the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center conducted both sub-scale testing and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of slosh damping for Ortho-Grid and Iso-Grid tanks for cylindrical tanks containing water. Enhanced grid meshing techniques were applied to the geometrically detailed and complex Ortho-Grid and Iso-Grid structures. The Loci-STREAM CFD program with the Volume of Fluid Method module for tracking and locating the water-air fluid interface was used to conduct the simulations. The CFD simulations were validated with the test data and new empirical models for predicting damping and frequency of Ortho-Grid and Iso-Grid structures were generated.

IL-15/IL-15 receptor biology: a guided tour through an expanding universe.

Science.gov (United States)

Budagian, Vadim; Bulanova, Elena; Paus, Ralf; Bulfone-Paus, Silvia

2006-08-01

The cytokine interleukin-15 (IL-15) has a key role in promoting survival, proliferation and activation of natural killer (NK) and CD8+ T cells. Despite its functional similarities to IL-2, IL-15 affects a wider range of target cell populations and utilizes different mechanisms of signaling. Here, we review recent advances in the IL-15-mediated signaling, and in the functional properties on cells besides T lymphocytes and NK cells. These are discussed in the context of their potential clinical and therapeutic relevance.

Robust Grid-Current-Feedback Resonance Suppression Method for LCL-Type Grid-Connected Inverter Connected to Weak Grid

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Zhou, Xiaoping; Zhou, Leming; Chen, Yandong

2018-01-01

In this paper, a robust grid-current-feedback reso-nance suppression (GCFRS) method for LCL-type grid-connected inverter is proposed to enhance the system damping without introducing the switching noise and eliminate the impact of control delay on system robustness against grid-impedance variation....... It is composed of GCFRS method, the full duty-ratio and zero-beat-lag PWM method, and the lead-grid-current-feedback-resonance-suppression (LGCFRS) method. Firstly, the GCFRS is used to suppress the LCL-resonant peak well and avoid introducing the switching noise. Secondly, the proposed full duty-ratio and zero......-beat-lag PWM method is used to elimi-nate the one-beat-lag computation delay without introducing duty cycle limitations. Moreover, it can also realize the smooth switching from positive to negative half-wave of the grid current and improve the waveform quality. Thirdly, the proposed LGCFRS is used to further...

Grid connectivity issues and the importance of GCC. [GCC - Grid Code Compliance

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Das, A.; Schwartz, M.-K. [GL Renewable Certification, Malleswaram, Bangalore (India)

2012-07-01

In India, the wind energy is concentrated in rural areas with a very high penetration. In these cases, the wind power has an increasing influence on the power quality on the grids. Another aspect is the influence of weak grids on the operation of wind turbines. Hence it becomes very much essential to introduce such a strong grid code which is particularly applicable to wind sector and suitable for Indian environmental grid conditions. This paper focuses on different international grid codes and their requirement with regard to the connection of wind farms to the electric power systems to mitigate the grid connectivity issues. The requirements include the ways to achieve voltage and frequency stability in the grid-tied wind power system. In this paper, comparative overview and analysis of the main grid connecting requirements will be conducted, comprising several national and regional codes from many countries where high wind penetration levels have been achieved or are expected in the future. The objective of these requirements is to provide wind farms with the control and regulation capabilities encountered in conventional power plants and are necessary for the safe, reliable and economic operation of the power system. This paper also provides a brief idea on the Grid Code Compliance (GCC) certification procedure implemented by the leading accredited certifying body like Germanischer Lloyd Renewables Certification (GL RC), who checks the conformity of the wind turbines as per region specific grid codes. (Author)

The GridShare solution: a smart grid approach to improve service provision on a renewable energy mini-grid in Bhutan

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Quetchenbach, T G; Harper, M J; Jacobson, A E; Robinson IV, J; Hervin, K K; Chase, N A; Dorji, C

2013-01-01

This letter reports on the design and pilot installation of GridShares, devices intended to alleviate brownouts caused by peak power use on isolated, village-scale mini-grids. A team consisting of the authors and partner organizations designed, built and field-tested GridShares in the village of Rukubji, Bhutan. The GridShare takes an innovative approach to reducing brownouts by using a low cost device that communicates the state of the grid to its users and regulates usage before severe brownouts occur. This demand-side solution encourages users to distribute the use of large appliances more evenly throughout the day, allowing power-limited systems to provide reliable, long-term renewable electricity to these communities. In the summer of 2011, GridShares were installed in every household and business connected to the Rukubji micro-hydro mini-grid, which serves approximately 90 households with a 40 kW nominal capacity micro-hydro system. The installation was accompanied by an extensive education program. Following the installation of the GridShares, the occurrence and average length of severe brownouts, which had been caused primarily by the use of electric cooking appliances during meal preparation, decreased by over 92%. Additionally, the majority of residents surveyed stated that now they are more certain that their rice will cook well and that they would recommend installing GridShares in other villages facing similar problems. (letter)

Bayesian grid matching

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Hartelius, Karsten; Carstensen, Jens Michael

2003-01-01

A method for locating distorted grid structures in images is presented. The method is based on the theories of template matching and Bayesian image restoration. The grid is modeled as a deformable template. Prior knowledge of the grid is described through a Markov random field (MRF) model which r...

Signaling through IL-17C/IL-17RE is dispensable for immunity to systemic, oral and cutaneous candidiasis.

Science.gov (United States)

Conti, Heather R; Whibley, Natasha; Coleman, Bianca M; Garg, Abhishek V; Jaycox, Jillian R; Gaffen, Sarah L

2015-01-01

Candida albicans is a commensal fungal microbe of the human orogastrointestinal tract and skin. C. albicans causes multiple forms of disease in immunocompromised patients, including oral, vaginal, dermal and disseminated candidiasis. The cytokine IL-17 (IL-17A) and its receptor subunits, IL-17RA and IL-17RC, are required for protection to most forms of candidiasis. The importance of the IL-17R pathway has been observed not only in knockout mouse models, but also in humans with rare genetic mutations that impact generation of Th17 cells or the IL-17 signaling pathway, including Hyper-IgE Syndrome (STAT3 or TYK2 mutations) or IL17RA or ACT1 gene deficiency. The IL-17 family of cytokines is a distinct subclass of cytokines with unique structural and signaling properties. IL-17A is the best-characterized member of the IL-17 family to date, but far less is known about other IL-17-related cytokines. In this study, we sought to determine the role of a related IL-17 cytokine, IL-17C, in protection against oral, dermal and disseminated forms of C. albicans infection. IL-17C signals through a heterodimeric receptor composed of the IL-17RA and IL-17RE subunits. We observed that IL-17C mRNA was induced following oral C. albicans infection. However, mice lacking IL-17C or IL-17RE cleared C. albicans infections in the oral mucosa, skin and bloodstream at rates similar to WT littermate controls. Moreover, these mice demonstrated similar gene transcription profiles and recovery kinetics as WT animals. These findings indicate that IL-17C and IL-17RE are dispensable for immunity to the forms of candidiasis evaluated, and illustrate a surprisingly limited specificity of the IL-17 family of cytokines with respect to systemic, oral and cutaneous Candida infections.

Signaling through IL-17C/IL-17RE Is Dispensable for Immunity to Systemic, Oral and Cutaneous Candidiasis

Science.gov (United States)

Conti, Heather R.; Whibley, Natasha; Coleman, Bianca M.; Garg, Abhishek V.; Jaycox, Jillian R.; Gaffen, Sarah L.

2015-01-01

Candida albicans is a commensal fungal microbe of the human orogastrointestinal tract and skin. C. albicans causes multiple forms of disease in immunocompromised patients, including oral, vaginal, dermal and disseminated candidiasis. The cytokine IL-17 (IL-17A) and its receptor subunits, IL-17RA and IL-17RC, are required for protection to most forms of candidiasis. The importance of the IL-17R pathway has been observed not only in knockout mouse models, but also in humans with rare genetic mutations that impact generation of Th17 cells or the IL-17 signaling pathway, including Hyper-IgE Syndrome (STAT3 or TYK2 mutations) or IL17RA or ACT1 gene deficiency. The IL-17 family of cytokines is a distinct subclass of cytokines with unique structural and signaling properties. IL-17A is the best-characterized member of the IL-17 family to date, but far less is known about other IL-17-related cytokines. In this study, we sought to determine the role of a related IL-17 cytokine, IL-17C, in protection against oral, dermal and disseminated forms of C. albicans infection. IL-17C signals through a heterodimeric receptor composed of the IL-17RA and IL-17RE subunits. We observed that IL-17C mRNA was induced following oral C. albicans infection. However, mice lacking IL-17C or IL-17RE cleared C. albicans infections in the oral mucosa, skin and bloodstream at rates similar to WT littermate controls. Moreover, these mice demonstrated similar gene transcription profiles and recovery kinetics as WT animals. These findings indicate that IL-17C and IL-17RE are dispensable for immunity to the forms of candidiasis evaluated, and illustrate a surprisingly limited specificity of the IL-17 family of cytokines with respect to systemic, oral and cutaneous Candida infections. PMID:25849644

The LHCb Grid Simulation

CERN Multimedia

Baranov, Alexander

2016-01-01

The LHCb Grid access if based on the LHCbDirac system. It provides access to data and computational resources to researchers with different geographical locations. The Grid has a hierarchical topology with multiple sites distributed over the world. The sites differ from each other by their number of CPUs, amount of disk storage and connection bandwidth. These parameters are essential for the Grid work. Moreover, job scheduling and data distribution strategy have a great impact on the grid performance. However, it is hard to choose an appropriate algorithm and strategies as they need a lot of time to be tested on the real grid. In this study, we describe the LHCb Grid simulator. The simulator reproduces the LHCb Grid structure with its sites and their number of CPUs, amount of disk storage and bandwidth connection. We demonstrate how well the simulator reproduces the grid work, show its advantages and limitations. We show how well the simulator reproduces job scheduling and network anomalies, consider methods ...

Smart grid in Denmark 2.0. Implementing three key recommendations from the Smart Grid Network. [DanGrid]; Smart Grid i Danmark 2.0. Implementering af tre centrale anbefalinger fra Smart Grid netvaerket

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

NONE

2012-11-01

In 2011 the Smart Grid Network, established by the Danish Climate and Energy minister in 2010, published a report which identifies 35 recommendations for implementing smart grid in Denmark. The present report was prepared by the Danish Energy Association and Energinet.dk and elaborates three of these recommendations: Concept for controlling the power system; Information model for the dissemination of data; Roadmap for deployment of smart grid. Concept of Smart Grid: The concept mobilizes and enables electric power demand response and production from smaller customers. This is done by customers or devices connected to the power system modify their behavior to meet the needs of the power system. The concept basically distinguishes between two different mechanisms to enable flexibility. One is the use of price signals (variable network tariffs and electricity prices), which gives customers a financial incentive to move their electricity consumption and production to times when it is of less inconvenience to the power system. The second is flexibility products, where a pre-arranged and well-specified performance - for example, a load reduction in a defined network area - can be activated as required by grid operators and / or Energinet.dk at an agreed price. Information Model for Disseminating Data: The future power system is complex with a large number of physical units, companies and individuals are actively involved in the power system. Similarly, the amount of information needed to be collected, communicated and processed grows explosively, and it is therefore essential to ensure a well-functioning IT infrastructure. A crucial element is a standardized information model in the Danish power system. The concept therefore indicates to use international standards to define an information model. Roadmap Focusing on Grid Companies' Role: There is a need to remove two key barriers. The first barrier is that the existing regulation does not support the grid using

The role of interleukin-5 (IL-5 in vivo: studies with IL-5 deficient mice

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Klaus I Matthaei

1997-12-01

Full Text Available Eosinophil recruitment is a characteristic feature of a number of pathological conditions and was the topic of the recent International Symposium on allergic inflammation, asthma, parasitic and infectious diseases (Rio de Janeiro, June 3-5, 1996. Since interleukin5 (IL5 is believed to regulate the growth, differentiation and activation of eosinophils (Coffman et al. 1989, Sanderson 1992, the role of eosinophils and IL5 are closely linked. Although IL5 specifically regulates eosinophilia in vivo and this is its most well established activity, it is becoming clear that IL5 also has other biological effects. The recent derivation of an IL5 deficient mouse (Kopf et al. 1996, provides a model for exploring not only the role of IL5 and eosinophils but also other novel activities of IL5. Of note is that although the IL5 deficient mice cannot elicit a pronounced eosinophilia in response to inflammatory stimulation following aeroallergen challenge or parasite infection they still produce basal levels of eosinophils that appear to be morphologically and functionally normal. However, the basal levels of eosinophils appear insufficient for normal host defence as IL5 deficiency has now been shown to compromise defence against several helminth infections. In addition, IL5 deficient mice appear to have functional deficiencies in B-1 B lymphocytes and in IgA production.

Predictive value of IL-35 and IL-17 in diagnosis of childhood asthma.

Science.gov (United States)

Mansour, Amira Ibrahim; Abd Almonaem, Eman Rateb; Behairy, Ola Galal; Gouda, Tahany Mahmoud

2017-09-01

This study aimed to evaluate the correlation between serum levels of IL-17 and IL-35 and the presence and severity of childhood asthma. The study was performed on 60 diagnosed asthmatic children, who were further classified into four groups according to the Global Initiative for Asthma Guidelines for Asthma Severity and Control (GINA) 2016, plus 30 age- and sex-matched apparently healthy children. All participants were subjected to full medical history, clinical examination, pulmonary function tests and laboratory evaluation in the form of complete blood count (CBC), serum total IgE, IL-17 and IL-35 by ELISA. Our results revealed that eosinophils count, IgE and IL-17 were significantly higher in the asthmatic group than the control group (p 13.1 pg/mL; this value could predict childhood asthma with sensitivity of 81.7% and 83.3%, and specificity of 76.7% and 70%, respectively. A combination of both cytokines yielded an increase in sensitivity to 95%. In conclusion, in the current study, IL-17 is upregulated while IL-35 is downregulated in childhood asthma with a significant negative correlation between both. These results suggest that both may play an important role in the pathogenesis of childhood asthma.

MR imaging in the diagnosis of the os trigonum syndrome; Il ruolo della Risonanza Magnetica nella diagnosi della sindrome dell'os trigonum

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Tamburrini, O.; Porpiglia, H.; Barresi, D.; Bertucci, B.; Console, D. [Catanzaro Univ. Magna Grecia, Catanzaro (Italy). Radiologia, Dipt. di Medicina Sperimentale e Clinica

1999-12-01

In this paper is investigated the yield of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in hind foot conditions, particularly the os trigonum syndrome, which are very difficult to diagnose clinically. 7 consecutive patients were examined. They were complaining of hind foot pain for more than 4 months (male:female=1:6; age range 16-22 years, average 18.6). Three patients practiced competitive sports and 4 ballet. It was performed conventional radiography (orthogonal projections) and then MRI with a 0.5 T superconductive unit with surface coils; MR images were acquired with T1-weighted spin-echo (SE), T2-weighted gradient-echo (GRE), and fast inversion recovery (FIR) fat-suppressed sequences with 4 mm thickness and 0 mm gap. In 2 cases the os trigonum had irregular margins with subchondral sclerosis and widened synchondrosis. In 3 patients it was found flessor hallucis longus tenosynovitis, likely caused by tendon compression and displacement within its sheath; there were neither os trigonum marrow edema nor synchondrosis widening. One patient had os trigonum hypertrophy, mild synchondrosis widening and marrow edema, in the os trigonum and the posterior aspect of talus. One patient had the os trigonum, but no signs referable to the os trigonum syndrome. In the posterior impingement syndrome, the objective is to show inflammatory changes in the posterior capsule of the ankle joint, adjacent ligaments, tendons and chondrosynovial surface. MR provides important information on soft tissues involvement, synovial reaction, chondral and subchondral bone injuries and the association of flexor hallucis longus synovitis, if present. MRI also yields detailed information for correct therapeutic approach. In conclusion, MRI appears to be the technique of choice, after conventional radiography, thanks to its non invasiveness, multi planarity, and high spatial and contrast resolution. [Italian] Scopo di questo lavoro e' quello di sottolineare il determinante contributo informativo della

Synchronization method for grid integrated battery storage systems during asymmetrical grid faults

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Popadić Bane

2017-01-01

Full Text Available This paper aims at presenting a robust and reliable synchronization method for battery storage systems during asymmetrical grid faults. For this purpose, a Matlab/Simulink based model for testing of the power electronic interface between the grid and the battery storage systems has been developed. The synchronization method proposed in the paper is based on the proportional integral resonant controller with the delay signal cancellation. The validity of the synchronization method has been verified using the advanced laboratory station for the control of grid connected distributed energy sources. The proposed synchronization method has eliminated unfavourable components from the estimated grid angular frequency, leading to the more accurate and reliable tracking of the grid voltage vector positive sequence during both the normal operation and the operation during asymmetrical grid faults. [Project of the Serbian Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development, Grant no. III 042004: Integrated and Interdisciplinary Research entitled: Smart Electricity Distribution Grids Based on Distribution Management System and Distributed Generation

Il Medioevo nella percezione contemporanea: alcuni spunti per una riflession

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Anna Benvenuti

2012-08-01

Middle Ages could be an indicator of the political ideas of the directors and, more precisely, a marker of their vision of the relationship between Western and Eastern civilizations.Il saggio ricostruisce la percezione del Medioevo nell’età contemporanea evidenziando quali sono gli stereotipi di maggior successo attraverso i quali viene proposto il Medioevo: lo scopo del saggio non è quello filologico di correggere gli “errori” di intepretazione ma, piuttosto, di comprendere quali atteggiamenti culturali e ideologici sono sottesi agli “errori” interpretativi. Le “fonti” sulle quali condurre lo studio sono state scelte in modo da coprire un ambito piuttosto vasto, dalla letteratura scientifica non medievistica (ad esempio il celebre testo del politologo britannico Hedley Bull “La società anarchica” alla letteratura fantasy, ai prodotti dei mass-media tradizionali, alla filmografia, ai giochi di ruolo. Una particolare attenzione è stata riservata, poi, all’analisi dei tematismi legati alle crociate, a questo proposito è stata privilegiata soprattutto la produzione cinematografica, ripercorrendo alcuni celebri film e cercando di mostrare come i topoi rappresentativi del Medioevo siano, in realtà e di volta in volta, una spia della visione politica globale degli autori e, più precisamente, un marker della loro visione del rapporto Occidente/Oriente.

Interleukin (IL)-23 mediates Toxoplasma gondii-induced immunopathology in the gut via matrixmetalloproteinase-2 and IL-22 but independent of IL-17

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Muñoz, Melba; Heimesaat, Markus M; Danker, Kerstin

2009-01-01

Peroral infection with Toxoplasma gondii leads to the development of small intestinal inflammation dependent on Th1 cytokines. The role of Th17 cells in ileitis is unknown. We report interleukin (IL)-23-mediated gelatinase A (matrixmetalloproteinase [MMP]-2) up-regulation in the ileum of infected...... mice. MMP-2 deficiency as well as therapeutic or prophylactic selective gelatinase blockage protected mice from the development of T. gondii-induced immunopathology. Moreover, IL-23-dependent up-regulation of IL-22 was essential for the development of ileitis, whereas IL-17 was down...

Genetic regulation of IL1RL1 methylation and IL1RL1-a protein levels in asthma.

Science.gov (United States)

Dijk, F Nicole; Xu, Chengjian; Melén, Erik; Carsin, Anne-Elie; Kumar, Asish; Nolte, Ilja M; Gruzieva, Olena; Pershagen, Goran; Grotenboer, Neomi S; Savenije, Olga E M; Antó, Josep Maria; Lavi, Iris; Dobaño, Carlota; Bousquet, Jean; van der Vlies, Pieter; van der Valk, Ralf J P; de Jongste, Johan C; Nawijn, Martijn C; Guerra, Stefano; Postma, Dirkje S; Koppelman, Gerard H

2018-03-01

Interleukin-1 receptor-like 1 ( IL1RL1 ) is an important asthma gene. (Epi)genetic regulation of IL1RL1 protein expression has not been established. We assessed the association between IL1RL1 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), IL1RL1 methylation and serum IL1RL1-a protein levels, and aimed to identify causal pathways in asthma.Associations of IL1RL1 SNPs with asthma were determined in the Dutch Asthma Genome-wide Association Study cohort and three European birth cohorts, BAMSE (Children/Barn, Allergy, Milieu, Stockholm, an Epidemiological survey), INMA (Infancia y Medio Ambiente) and PIAMA (Prevention and Incidence of Asthma and Mite Allergy), participating in the Mechanisms of the Development of Allergy study. We performed blood DNA IL1RL1 methylation quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis (n=496) and (epi)genome-wide protein QTL analysis on serum IL1RL1-a levels (n=1462). We investigated the association of IL1RL1 CpG methylation with asthma (n=632) and IL1RL1-a levels (n=548), with subsequent causal inference testing. Finally, we determined the association of IL1RL1-a levels with asthma and its clinical characteristics (n=1101). IL1RL1 asthma-risk SNPs strongly associated with IL1RL1 methylation (rs1420101; p=3.7×10 -16 ) and serum IL1RL1-a levels (p=2.8×10 -56 ). IL1RL1 methylation was not associated with asthma or IL1RL1-a levels. IL1RL1-a levels negatively correlated with blood eosinophil counts, whereas there was no association between IL1RL1-a levels and asthma.In conclusion, asthma-associated IL1RL1 SNPs strongly regulate IL1RL1 methylation and serum IL1RL1-a levels, yet neither these IL1RL1- methylation CpG sites nor IL1RL1-a levels are associated with asthma. Copyright ©ERS 2018.

Regulation of IL-6 and IL-8 production by reciprocal cell-to-cell interactions between tumor cells and stromal fibroblasts through IL-1α in ameloblastoma

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fuchigami, Takao; Kibe, Toshiro; Koyama, Hirofumi; Kishida, Shosei; Iijima, Mikio; Nishizawa, Yoshiaki; Hijioka, Hiroshi; Fujii, Tomomi; Ueda, Masahiro; Nakamura, Norifumi; Kiyono, Tohru; Kishida, Michiko

2014-01-01

Highlights: • We studied the interaction between tumor cells and fibroblasts in ameloblastoma. • AM-3 ameloblastoma cells secreted significantly high IL-1α levels. • IL-1α derived from AM-3 cells promoted IL-6 and IL-8 secretion of fibroblasts. • IL-6 and IL-8 activated the cellular motility and proliferation of AM-3 cells. - Abstract: Ameloblastoma is an odontogenic benign tumor that occurs in the jawbone, which invades bone and reoccurs locally. This tumor is treated by wide surgical excision and causes various problems, including changes in facial countenance and mastication disorders. Ameloblastomas have abundant tumor stroma, including fibroblasts and immune cells. Although cell-to-cell interactions are considered to be involved in the pathogenesis of many diseases, intercellular communications in ameloblastoma have not been fully investigated. In this study, we examined interactions between tumor cells and stromal fibroblasts via soluble factors in ameloblastoma. We used a human ameloblastoma cell line (AM-3 ameloblastoma cells), human fibroblasts (HFF-2 fibroblasts), and primary-cultured fibroblasts from human ameloblastoma tissues, and analyzed the effect of ameloblastoma-associated cell-to-cell communications on gene expression, cytokine secretion, cellular motility and proliferation. AM-3 ameloblastoma cells secreted higher levels of interleukin (IL)-1α than HFF-2 fibroblasts. Treatment with conditioned medium from AM-3 ameloblastoma cells upregulated gene expression and secretion of IL-6 and IL-8 of HFF-2 fibroblasts and primary-cultured fibroblast cells from ameloblastoma tissues. The AM3-stimulated production of IL-6 and IL-8 in fibroblasts was neutralized by pretreatment of AM-3 cells with anti-IL-1α antibody and IL-1 receptor antagonist. Reciprocally, cellular motility of AM-3 ameloblastoma cells was stimulated by HFF-2 fibroblasts in IL-6 and IL-8 dependent manner. In conclusion, ameloblastoma cells and stromal fibroblasts behave

Regulation of IL-6 and IL-8 production by reciprocal cell-to-cell interactions between tumor cells and stromal fibroblasts through IL-1α in ameloblastoma

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Fuchigami, Takao [Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, 8-35-1 Sakuragaoka, Kagoshima 890-8544 (Japan); Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, 8-35-1 Sakuragaoka, Kagoshima 890-8544 (Japan); Kibe, Toshiro [Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, 8-35-1 Sakuragaoka, Kagoshima 890-8544 (Japan); Koyama, Hirofumi; Kishida, Shosei; Iijima, Mikio [Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, 8-35-1 Sakuragaoka, Kagoshima 890-8544 (Japan); Nishizawa, Yoshiaki [Kagoshima University Faculty of Medicine, 8-35-1 Sakuragaoka, Kagoshima 890-8544 (Japan); Hijioka, Hiroshi; Fujii, Tomomi [Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, 8-35-1 Sakuragaoka, Kagoshima 890-8544 (Japan); Ueda, Masahiro [Natural Science Centre for Research and Education, Kagoshima University, 1-21-24 Koorimoto, Kagoshima 890-8580 (Japan); Nakamura, Norifumi [Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, 8-35-1 Sakuragaoka, Kagoshima 890-8544 (Japan); Kiyono, Tohru [Department of Virology, National Cancer Center Research Institute, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuouku, Tokyo 104-0045 (Japan); Kishida, Michiko, E-mail: kmichiko@m2.kufm.kagoshima-u.ac.jp [Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, 8-35-1 Sakuragaoka, Kagoshima 890-8544 (Japan)

2014-09-05

Highlights: • We studied the interaction between tumor cells and fibroblasts in ameloblastoma. • AM-3 ameloblastoma cells secreted significantly high IL-1α levels. • IL-1α derived from AM-3 cells promoted IL-6 and IL-8 secretion of fibroblasts. • IL-6 and IL-8 activated the cellular motility and proliferation of AM-3 cells. - Abstract: Ameloblastoma is an odontogenic benign tumor that occurs in the jawbone, which invades bone and reoccurs locally. This tumor is treated by wide surgical excision and causes various problems, including changes in facial countenance and mastication disorders. Ameloblastomas have abundant tumor stroma, including fibroblasts and immune cells. Although cell-to-cell interactions are considered to be involved in the pathogenesis of many diseases, intercellular communications in ameloblastoma have not been fully investigated. In this study, we examined interactions between tumor cells and stromal fibroblasts via soluble factors in ameloblastoma. We used a human ameloblastoma cell line (AM-3 ameloblastoma cells), human fibroblasts (HFF-2 fibroblasts), and primary-cultured fibroblasts from human ameloblastoma tissues, and analyzed the effect of ameloblastoma-associated cell-to-cell communications on gene expression, cytokine secretion, cellular motility and proliferation. AM-3 ameloblastoma cells secreted higher levels of interleukin (IL)-1α than HFF-2 fibroblasts. Treatment with conditioned medium from AM-3 ameloblastoma cells upregulated gene expression and secretion of IL-6 and IL-8 of HFF-2 fibroblasts and primary-cultured fibroblast cells from ameloblastoma tissues. The AM3-stimulated production of IL-6 and IL-8 in fibroblasts was neutralized by pretreatment of AM-3 cells with anti-IL-1α antibody and IL-1 receptor antagonist. Reciprocally, cellular motility of AM-3 ameloblastoma cells was stimulated by HFF-2 fibroblasts in IL-6 and IL-8 dependent manner. In conclusion, ameloblastoma cells and stromal fibroblasts behave

Increasing the biological activity of IL-2 and IL-15 through complexing with anti-IL-2 mAbs and Il-15Ralfa-Fc chimera

Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

Votavová, Petra; Tomala, Jakub; Kovář, Marek

2014-01-01

Roč. 195, č. 1 (2014), s. 1-10 ISSN 0165-2478 R&D Projects: GA ČR GAP301/11/0325; GA MŠk(CZ) ED1.1.00/02.0109; GA ČR GA13-12885S Institutional support: RVO:61388971 Keywords : IL-2 * IL-15 * chimera Subject RIV: EC - Immunology Impact factor: 2.512, year: 2014

Il muro come galleria

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Duccio Dogheria

2008-06-01

Full Text Available Il muro, nel suo grigio rigore formale, nella sua fredda geometria, nel suo intento divisorio, nasconde spesso il cielo. Sovente il linguaggio dell’arte, ma non di meno quello della comunicazione, hanno interferito con le sue algide barriere. In molti casi, beninteso, non è che il potere in altre forme, che interferisce con se stesso: pensiamo ai bandi affissi agli angoli delle città, o le lettere d’indulgenza papali -spesso impreziosite da miniature al punto da poterle considerare antenate dal manifesto- che nel corso del medioevo venivano affisse sulle porte delle chiese.

L'uso del doppiaggio e del sottotitolaggio nell'insegnamento della L2: Il caso della piattaforma ClipFlair

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Lupe Romero

2016-01-01

, where the users can find materials – including activities, clips and tutorials – collaborate through groups, send feedback through forums, etc.   Keywords: foreign learning language; translation; subtitling; dubbing; video.   Riassunto – Lo scopo di questo articolo è quello di presentare il progetto Clipflair, una piattaforma web per l'apprendimento delle lingue straniere (L2 attraverso la risonorizzazione (revoicing e il sottotitolaggio (captioning nei filmati. L’uso di materiale audiovisivo nelle aule di lingua è una pratica frequente per gli insegnanti in quanto introduce varietà linguistiche, mostra elementi culturali non verbali e, ciò che è più importante, presenta aspetti linguistici e culturali della comunicazione nel loro contesto. Tuttavia, gli insegnanti che usano gli audiovisivi hanno la difficoltà di trovare attività che permettano un ruolo attivo degli studenti al di là della semplice visione del film. ClipFlair permette di lavorare con materiale audiovisivo in modo produttivo e anche motivante, chiedendo agli studenti di fare il revoicing  o il sottotitolaggio di un filmato. Revoicing è un termine usato per riferirsi alla risonorizzazione di un filmato, come sarebbe il doppiaggio, il libero commento, l’audiodescrizione o il karaoke. Il termine captioning fa riferimento all’inserimento di un testo scritto sul filmato come nel caso dei sottotitoli convenzionali oppure i commenti o gli intertitoli. I filmati possono essere brevi file di video o audio, compresi i documentari, scene di film, notizie, animazioni e canzoni. ClipFlair sviluppa materiali che permettono agli studenti di lingue straniere di mettere in pratica le quattro abilità basilari del QCER: scrivere, parlare, ascoltare e leggere. Nell’ambito del progetto, sono state elaborate più di 350 attività di doppiaggio e/o sottotitolaggio. Queste attività sono state create per più di 16 lingue tra cui l’inglese, lo spagnolo e l’italiano, ma soprattutto ci sono attivit

Targeting the IL-33/IL-13 Axis for Respiratory Viral Infections.

Science.gov (United States)

Donovan, Chantal; Bourke, Jane E; Vlahos, Ross

2016-04-01

Lung diseases, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), are highly prevalent worldwide. One of the major factors that limits the efficacy of current medication in these patients are viral infections, leading to exacerbations of symptoms and decreased quality of life. Current pharmacological strategies targeting virus-induced lung disease are problematic due to antiviral resistance and the requirement for strain-specific vaccination. Thus, new therapeutic strategies are urgently required. In this Opinion article, we provide state-of-the-art evidence from humans and preclinical animal models implicating the interleukin (IL)-33/IL-13 axis in virus-induced lung disease. Thus, targeting the IL-33/IL-13 axis may be a feasible way to overcome the limitations of current therapy used to treat virus-induced exacerbations of lung disease. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Carbon monoxide releasing molecule-2 ameliorates IL-1β-induced IL-8 in human gastric cancer cells

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lian, Sen; Xia, Yong; Ung, Trong Thuan; Khoi, Pham Ngoc; Yoon, Hyun Joong; Kim, Nam Ho; Kim, Kyung Keun; Jung, Young Do

2016-01-01

Carbon monoxide (CO), a byproduct of heme oxygenase (HO), presents antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor properties. Accumulating evidence supports that interleukin (IL)-8 contribute to the vascularity of human gastric cancer. However, the inhibition of IL-8 expression by CO is yet to be elucidated. Here, we utilized CO releasing molecule-2 (CORM-2) to investigate the effect of CO on IL-1β-induced IL-8 expression and the underlying molecular mechanisms in human gastric cancer AGS cells. CORM-2 dose-dependently suppressed IL-1β-induced IL-8 mRNA and protein expression as well as IL-8 promoter activity. IL-1β induced the translocation of p47 phox to activate reactive oxygen species (ROS)-producing NADPH oxidase (NOX). Moreover, IL-1β activated MAPKs (Erk1/2, JNK1/2, and p38 MAPK) and promoted nuclear factor (NF)-kB and activator protein (AP)-1 binding activities. Pharmacological inhibition and mutagenesis studies indicated that NOX, ROS, Erk1/2, and p38 MAPK are involved in IL-1β-induced IL-8 expression. Transient transfection of deletion mutant constructs of the IL-8 promoter in cells suggested that NF-kB and AP-1 are critical for IL-1β-induced IL-8 transcription. NOX-derived ROS and MAPKs (Erk1/2 and p38 MAPK) functioned as upstream activators of NF-κB and AP-1, respectively. CORM-2 pretreatment significantly mitigated IL-1β-induced activation of ROS/NF-kB and Erk1/2/AP-1 cascades, blocking IL-8 expression and thus significantly reducing endothelial cell proliferation in the tumor microenvironment.

Flexible operation of parallel grid-connecting converters under unbalanced grid voltage

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Lu, Jinghang; Savaghebi, Mehdi; Guerrero, Josep M.

2017-01-01

-link voltage ripple, and overloading. Moreover, under grid voltage unbalance, the active power delivery ability is decreased due to the converter's current rating limitation. In this paper, a thorough study on the current limitation of the grid-connecting converter under grid voltage unbalance is conducted....... In addition, based on the principle that total output active power should be oscillation free, a coordinated control strategy is proposed for the parallel grid-connecting converters. The case study has been conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness of this proposed control strategy....

IL-4 and IL-13 Compromise the Sinonasal Epithelial Barrier and Perturb Intercellular Junction Protein Expression

Science.gov (United States)

Wise, Sarah K.; Laury, Adrienne M.; Katz, Elizabeth H.; Den Beste, Kyle A.; Parkos, Charles A.; Nusrat, Asma

2014-01-01

Introduction Altered expression of epithelial intercellular junction proteins has been observed in sinonasal biopsies from nasal polyps and epithelial layers cultured from nasal polyp patients. These alterations comprise a “leaky” epithelial barrier phenotype. We hypothesize that Th2 cytokines IL-4 and IL-13 modulate epithelial junction proteins thereby contributing to the leaky epithelial barrier. Methods Differentiated primary sinonasal epithelial layers cultured at the air-liquid interface were exposed to IL-4, IL-13, and controls for 24 hours at 37°C. Epithelial resistance measurements were taken every 4 hours during cytokine exposure. Western blot and immunofluorescence staining/confocal microscopy were used to assess changes in a panel of tight and adherens junction proteins. Western blot densitometry was quantified with image analysis. Results IL-4 and IL-13 exposure resulted in a mean decrease in transepithelial resistance at 24 hours to 51.6% (n=6) and 68.6% (n=8) of baseline, respectively. Tight junction protein JAM-A expression decreased 42.2% with IL-4 exposure (n=9) and 37.5% with IL-13 exposure (n=9). Adherens junction protein E-cadherin expression decreased 35.3% with IL-4 exposure (n=9) and 32.9% with IL-13 exposure (n=9). Tight junction protein claudin-2 showed more variability but had a trend toward higher expression with Th2 cytokine exposure. There were no appreciable changes in claudin-1, occludin, or ZO-1 with IL-4 or IL-13 exposure. Conclusion Sinonasal epithelial exposure to Th2 cytokines IL-4 and IL-13 results in alterations in intercellular junction proteins, reflecting increased epithelial permeability. Such changes may explain some of the phenotypic manifestations of Th2-mediated sinonasal disease, such as edema, nasal discharge, and environmental reactivity. PMID:24510479

Comparison of IL-6, IL-8 Concentrations in H. pylori- and non-H. pylori-associated Gastritis

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Gontar Alamsyah Siregar

2014-12-01

Full Text Available BACKGROUND: Helicobacter pylori is a non-invasive microorganism causing intense gastric mucosal inflammatory and immune reaction. The gastric mucosal levels of the proinflammatory cytokines Interleukin 6 (IL-6 and IL-8 have been reported to be increased in H. pylori infection, but the serum levels in H. pylori infection is still controversial. The purpose of this study was to investigate the serum levels of IL-6 and IL-8 in H. pylori infection. METHODS: A cross sectional study was done on eighty consecutive gastritis patients admitted to endoscopy units at Adam Malik General Hospital and Permata Bunda Hospital, Medan, Indonesia from May-October 2014. Histopathology was performed for the diagnosis of gastritis. Rapid urease test for diagnosis of H. pylori infection. Serum samples were obtained to determine circulating IL-6 and IL-8. Univariate and bivariate analysis (independent t test were done. RESULTS: There were 41.25% patients infected with H. pylori. Circulatory IL-6 levels were significantly higher in H. pylori-infected patients compared to H. pylori negative, but there were no differences between serum levels of IL-8 in H. pylori positive and negative patients. CONCLUSIONS: The immune response to H. pylori promotes systemic inflammation, which was reflected in an increased level of serum IL-6. Serum levels of IL-8 were not significantly different between H. pylori positive and negative. KEYWORDS: Helicobacter pylori, gastritis, IL-6, IL-8, cytokine.

Phase-lock loop of Grid-connected Voltage Source Converter under non-ideal grid condition

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Wang, Haojie; Sun, Hai; Han, Minxiao

2015-01-01

It is a normal practice that the DC micro-grid is connected to AC main grid through Grid-connected Voltage Source Converter (G-VSC) for voltage support. Accurate control of DC micro-grid voltage is difficult for G-VSC under unbalanced grid condition as the fundamental positive-sequence component...... and distorted system voltage the proposed PLL can accurately detect the fundamental positive-sequence component of grid voltage thus accurate control of DC micro-grid voltage can be realized....... phase information cannot be accurately tracked. Based on analysis of the cause of double-frequency ripple when unbalance exists in main grid, a phase-locked loop (PLL) detection technique is proposed. Under the conditions of unsymmetrical system voltage, varying system frequency, single-phase system...

Signaling through IL-17C/IL-17RE is dispensable for immunity to systemic, oral and cutaneous candidiasis.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Heather R Conti

Full Text Available Candida albicans is a commensal fungal microbe of the human orogastrointestinal tract and skin. C. albicans causes multiple forms of disease in immunocompromised patients, including oral, vaginal, dermal and disseminated candidiasis. The cytokine IL-17 (IL-17A and its receptor subunits, IL-17RA and IL-17RC, are required for protection to most forms of candidiasis. The importance of the IL-17R pathway has been observed not only in knockout mouse models, but also in humans with rare genetic mutations that impact generation of Th17 cells or the IL-17 signaling pathway, including Hyper-IgE Syndrome (STAT3 or TYK2 mutations or IL17RA or ACT1 gene deficiency. The IL-17 family of cytokines is a distinct subclass of cytokines with unique structural and signaling properties. IL-17A is the best-characterized member of the IL-17 family to date, but far less is known about other IL-17-related cytokines. In this study, we sought to determine the role of a related IL-17 cytokine, IL-17C, in protection against oral, dermal and disseminated forms of C. albicans infection. IL-17C signals through a heterodimeric receptor composed of the IL-17RA and IL-17RE subunits. We observed that IL-17C mRNA was induced following oral C. albicans infection. However, mice lacking IL-17C or IL-17RE cleared C. albicans infections in the oral mucosa, skin and bloodstream at rates similar to WT littermate controls. Moreover, these mice demonstrated similar gene transcription profiles and recovery kinetics as WT animals. These findings indicate that IL-17C and IL-17RE are dispensable for immunity to the forms of candidiasis evaluated, and illustrate a surprisingly limited specificity of the IL-17 family of cytokines with respect to systemic, oral and cutaneous Candida infections.

IL-17 Induction by ArtinM is Due to Stimulation of IL-23 and IL-1 Release and/or Interaction with CD3 in CD4+ T Cells.

Science.gov (United States)

da Silva, Thiago Aparecido; Mariano, Vania Sammartino; Sardinha-Silva, Aline; de Souza, Maria Aparecida; Mineo, Tiago Wilson Patriarca; Roque-Barreira, Maria Cristina

2016-01-01

ArtinM is a D-mannose-binding lectin extracted from the seeds of Artocarpus heterophyllus that interacts with TLR2 N-glycans and activates antigen-presenting cells (APCs), as manifested by IL-12 production. In vivo ArtinM administration induces Th1 immunity and confers protection against infection with several intracellular pathogens. In the murine model of Candida albicans infection, it was verified that, in addition to Th1, ArtinM induces Th17 immunity manifested by high IL-17 levels in the treated animals. Herein, we investigated the mechanisms accounting for the ArtinM-induced IL-17 production. We found that ArtinM stimulates the IL-17 production by spleen cells in BALB/c or C57BL/6 mice, a response that was significantly reduced in the absence of IL-23, MyD88, or IL-1R. Furthermore, we showed that ArtinM directly induced the IL-23 mRNA expression and the IL-1 production by macrophages. Consistently, in cell suspensions depleted of macrophages, the IL-17 production stimulated by ArtinM was reduced by 53% and the exogenous IL-23 acted synergistically with ArtinM in promoting IL-17 production by spleen cell suspensions. We verified that the absence of IL-23, IL-1R, or MyD88 inhibited, but did not block, the IL-17 production by ArtinM-stimulated spleen cells. Therefore, we investigated whether ArtinM exerts a direct effect on CD4+ T cells in promoting IL-17 production. Indeed, spleen cell suspensions depleted of CD4+ T cells responded to ArtinM with very low levels of IL-17 release. Likewise, isolated CD4+ T cells under ArtinM stimulus augmented the expression of TGF-β mRNA and released high levels of IL-17. Considering the observed synergism between IL-23 and ArtinM, we used cells from IL-23 KO mice to assess the direct effect of lectin on CD4+ T cells. We verified that ArtinM increased the IL-17 production significantly, a response that was inhibited when the CD4+ T cells were pre-incubated with anti-CD3 antibody. In conclusion, ArtinM stimulates the production

IL-17 Induction by ArtinM is Due to Stimulation of IL-23 and IL-1 Release and/or Interaction with CD3 in CD4+ T Cells.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Thiago Aparecido da Silva

Full Text Available ArtinM is a D-mannose-binding lectin extracted from the seeds of Artocarpus heterophyllus that interacts with TLR2 N-glycans and activates antigen-presenting cells (APCs, as manifested by IL-12 production. In vivo ArtinM administration induces Th1 immunity and confers protection against infection with several intracellular pathogens. In the murine model of Candida albicans infection, it was verified that, in addition to Th1, ArtinM induces Th17 immunity manifested by high IL-17 levels in the treated animals. Herein, we investigated the mechanisms accounting for the ArtinM-induced IL-17 production. We found that ArtinM stimulates the IL-17 production by spleen cells in BALB/c or C57BL/6 mice, a response that was significantly reduced in the absence of IL-23, MyD88, or IL-1R. Furthermore, we showed that ArtinM directly induced the IL-23 mRNA expression and the IL-1 production by macrophages. Consistently, in cell suspensions depleted of macrophages, the IL-17 production stimulated by ArtinM was reduced by 53% and the exogenous IL-23 acted synergistically with ArtinM in promoting IL-17 production by spleen cell suspensions. We verified that the absence of IL-23, IL-1R, or MyD88 inhibited, but did not block, the IL-17 production by ArtinM-stimulated spleen cells. Therefore, we investigated whether ArtinM exerts a direct effect on CD4+ T cells in promoting IL-17 production. Indeed, spleen cell suspensions depleted of CD4+ T cells responded to ArtinM with very low levels of IL-17 release. Likewise, isolated CD4+ T cells under ArtinM stimulus augmented the expression of TGF-β mRNA and released high levels of IL-17. Considering the observed synergism between IL-23 and ArtinM, we used cells from IL-23 KO mice to assess the direct effect of lectin on CD4+ T cells. We verified that ArtinM increased the IL-17 production significantly, a response that was inhibited when the CD4+ T cells were pre-incubated with anti-CD3 antibody. In conclusion, Artin

La presa di parola di Anne Hutchinson. Insubordinazione e conflitto nella giovane America puritana

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Itala Vivan

2016-04-01

Full Text Available Anne Hutchinson lasciò l’Inghilterra nel 1634 per emigrare nel Massachusetts puritano, dove nel 1637 e 1638 fu processata, condannata, scomunicata ed espulsa come donna insubordinata, deviante e pericolosa. Il suo ruolo intellettuale e politico nell’alba incandescente della prima America viene qui analizzato e discusso ascoltando da presso il racconto che promana dalla voce della stessa Anne Hutchinson attraverso i verbali dei due processi, trascritti dai contemporanei con la fedeltà letterale che era tipica del puritanesimo americano. La drammatica controversia che ebbe al centro la presa di parola di questa donna segnò la prima grande crisi della neonata società coloniale – la cosiddetta crisi antinomiana -- e ne determinò gli sviluppi futuri, indirizzandoli verso un sistema di potere politico su basi teocratiche.

Smart grid security innovative solutions for a modernized grid

CERN Document Server

Skopik, Florian

2015-01-01

The Smart Grid security ecosystem is complex and multi-disciplinary, and relatively under-researched compared to the traditional information and network security disciplines. While the Smart Grid has provided increased efficiencies in monitoring power usage, directing power supplies to serve peak power needs and improving efficiency of power delivery, the Smart Grid has also opened the way for information security breaches and other types of security breaches. Potential threats range from meter manipulation to directed, high-impact attacks on critical infrastructure that could bring down regi

Differential expression of IL-6/IL-6R and MAO-A regulates invasion/angiogenesis in breast cancer.

Science.gov (United States)

Bharti, Rashmi; Dey, Goutam; Das, Anjan Kumar; Mandal, Mahitosh

2018-04-26

Monoamine oxidases (MAO) are mitochondrial enzymes functioning in oxidative metabolism of monoamines. The action of MAO-A has been typically described in neuro-pharmacological domains. Here, we have established a co-relation between IL-6/IL-6R and MAO-A and their regulation in hypoxia induced invasion/angiogenesis. We employed various in-vitro and in-vivo techniques and clinical samples. We studied a co-relation among MAO-A and IL-6/IL-6R and tumour angiogenesis/invasion in hypoxic environment in breast cancer model. Activation of IL-6/IL-6R and its downstream was found in hypoxic cancer cells. This elevation of IL-6/IL-6R caused sustained inhibition of MAO-A in hypoxic environment. Inhibition of IL-6R signalling or IL-6R siRNA increased MAO-A activity and inhibited tumour angiogenesis and invasion significantly in different models. Further, elevation of MAO-A with 5-azacytidine (5-Aza) modulated IL-6 mediated angiogenesis and invasive signatures including VEGF, MMPs and EMT in hypoxic breast cancer. High grade invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) clinical specimen displayed elevated level of IL-6R and depleted MAO-A expression. Expression of VEGF and HIF-1α was unregulated and loss of E-Cadherin was observed in high grade IDC tissue specimen. Suppression of MAO-A by IL-6/IL-6R activation promotes tumour angiogenesis and invasion in hypoxic breast cancer environment.

Grid Integration Research | Wind | NREL

Science.gov (United States)

Grid Integration Research Grid Integration Research Researchers study grid integration of wind three wind turbines with transmission lines in the background. Capabilities NREL's grid integration electric power system operators to more efficiently manage wind grid system integration. A photo of

EASE-Grid 2.0: Incremental but Significant Improvements for Earth-Gridded Data Sets

OpenAIRE

Brodzik, Mary J.; Billingsley, Brendan; Haran, Terry; Raup, Bruce; Savoie, Matthew H.

2012-01-01

Defined in the early 1990s for use with gridded satellite passive microwave data, the Equal-Area Scalable Earth Grid (EASE-Grid) was quickly adopted and used for distribution of a variety of satellite and in situ data sets. Conceptually easy to understand, EASE-Grid suffers from limitations that make it impossible to format in the widely popular GeoTIFF convention without reprojection. Importing EASE-Grid data into standard mapping software packages is nontrivial and error-prone. This article...

The distribution of IL-13 receptor alpha1 expression on B cells, T cells and monocytes and its regulation by IL-13 and IL-4.

Science.gov (United States)

Graber, P; Gretener, D; Herren, S; Aubry, J P; Elson, G; Poudrier, J; Lecoanet-Henchoz, S; Alouani, S; Losberger, C; Bonnefoy, J Y; Kosco-Vilbois, M H; Gauchat, J F

1998-12-01

To study the expression of IL-13 receptor alpha1 (IL-13Ralpha1), specific monoclonal antibodies (mAb) were generated. Surface expression of the IL-13Ralpha1 on B cells, monocytes and T cells was assessed by flow cytometry using these specific mAb. Among tonsillar B cells, the expression was the highest on the IgD+ CD38- B cell subpopulation which is believed to represent naive B cells. Expression was also detectable on a large fraction of the IgD-CD38- B cells but not on CD38+ B cells. Activation under conditions which promote B cell Ig class switching up-regulated the expression of the receptor. However, the same stimuli had an opposite effect for IL-13Ralpha1 expression levels on monocytes. While IL-13Ralpha1 mRNA was clearly detectable in T cell preparations, no surface expression was detected. However, permeabilization of the T cells showed a clear intracellular expression of the receptor. A soluble form of the receptor was immunoprecipitated from the supernatant of activated peripheral T cells, suggesting that T cell IL-13Ralpha1 might have functions unrelated to the capacity to form a type II IL-4/IL-13R with IL-4Ralpha.

The early IL-6 and IL-10 response in trauma is correlated with injury severity and mortality

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Stensballe, J; Christiansen, M; Tønnesen, E

2009-01-01

BACKGROUND: Trauma has previously been shown to influence interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-10 levels, but the association of injury severity and mortality with IL-6 and IL-10 responses in the early phase of accidental trauma remains to be investigated. We wished to describe serum levels of IL-6 and IL-10...... in the first 24 h after trauma and to assess the relationship with severity of injury and mortality. METHODS: Prospective, descriptive cohort study in a Level 1 trauma centre, Copenhagen, Denmark. We included 265 consecutive adult trauma patients admitted directly from the accident scene during an 18-month...... period. Serum levels of IL-6 and IL-10 were measured upon arrival and at 6, 12, and 24 h after admittance using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Correlation analysis was used to assess the relationship between Injury Severity Score (ISS) and levels of IL-6 and IL-10. Analysis of variance was used...

SuperGrid or SmartGrid: Competing strategies for large-scale integration of intermittent renewables?

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Blarke, Morten B.; Jenkins, Bryan M.

2013-01-01

This paper defines and compares two strategies for integrating intermittent renewables: SuperGrid and SmartGrid. While conventional energy policy suggests that these strategies may be implemented alongside each other, the paper identifies significant technological and socio-economic conflicts of interest between the two. The article identifies differences between a domestic strategy for the integration of intermittent renewables, vis-à-vis the SmartGrid, and a cross-system strategy, vis-à-vis the SuperGrid. Policy makers and transmission system operators must understand the need for both strategies to evolve in parallel, but in different territories, or with strategic integration, avoiding for one strategy to undermine the feasibility of the other. A strategic zoning strategy is introduced from which attentive societies as well as the global community stand to benefit. The analysis includes a paradigmatic case study from West Denmark which supports the hypothesis that these strategies are mutually exclusive. The case study shows that increasing cross-system transmission capacity jeopardizes the feasibility of SmartGrid technology investments. A political effort is required for establishing dedicated SmartGrid innovation zones, while also redefining infrastructure to avoid the narrow focus on grids and cables. SmartGrid Investment Trusts could be supported from reallocation of planned transmission grid investments to provide for the equitable development of SmartGrid strategies. - Highlights: • Compares SuperGrid and SmartGrid strategies for integrating intermittent renewables. • Identifies technological and socio-economic conflicts of interest between the two. • Proposes a strategic zoning strategy allowing for both strategies to evolve. • Presents a paradigmatic case study showing that strategies are mutually exclusive. • Proposes dedicated SmartGrid innovation zones and SmartGrid investment trusts

Mapping of grid faults and grid codes[Wind turbines

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Iov, F. [Aalborg Univ., Inst. of Energy Technology (Denmark); Hansen, Anca D.; Soerensen, Poul; Cutululis, N.A. [Risoe National Lab. - DTU, Wind Enegy Dept., Roskilde (Denmark)

2007-06-15

The objective of this project is to investigate into the consequences of the new grid connection requirements for the fatigue and extreme loads of wind turbines. The goal is also to clarify and define possible new directions in the certification process of power plant wind turbines, namely wind turbines, which participate actively in the stabilisation of power systems. Practical experience shows that there is a need for such investigations. The grid connection requirements for wind turbines have increased significantly during the last 5-10 years. Especially the requirements for wind turbines to stay connected to the grid during and after voltage sags, imply potential challenges in the design of wind turbines. These requirements pose challenges for the design of both the electrical system and the mechanical structure of wind turbines. An overview over the frequency of grid faults and the grid connection requirements in different relevant countries is done in this report. The most relevant study cases for the quantification of the loads' impact on the wind turbines' lifetime are defined. The goal of this report is to present a mapping of different grid fault types and their frequency in different countries. The report provides also a detailed overview of the Low Voltage Ride-Through Capabilities for wind turbines in different relevant countries. The most relevant study cases for the quantification of the loads' impact on the wind turbines' lifetime are defined. (au)

Bus.py: A GridLAB-D Communication Interface for Smart Distribution Grid Simulations

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Hansen, Timothy M.; Palmintier, Bryan; Suryanarayanan, Siddharth; Maciejewski, Anthony A.; Siegel, Howard Jay

2015-07-03

As more Smart Grid technologies (e.g., distributed photovoltaic, spatially distributed electric vehicle charging) are integrated into distribution grids, static distribution simulations are no longer sufficient for performing modeling and analysis. GridLAB-D is an agent-based distribution system simulation environment that allows fine-grained end-user models, including geospatial and network topology detail. A problem exists in that, without outside intervention, once the GridLAB-D simulation begins execution, it will run to completion without allowing the real-time interaction of Smart Grid controls, such as home energy management systems and aggregator control. We address this lack of runtime interaction by designing a flexible communication interface, Bus.py (pronounced bus-dot-pie), that uses Python to pass messages between one or more GridLAB-D instances and a Smart Grid simulator. This work describes the design and implementation of Bus.py, discusses its usefulness in terms of some Smart Grid scenarios, and provides an example of an aggregator-based residential demand response system interacting with GridLAB-D through Bus.py. The small scale example demonstrates the validity of the interface and shows that an aggregator using said interface is able to control residential loads in GridLAB-D during runtime to cause a reduction in the peak load on the distribution system in (a) peak reduction and (b) time-of-use pricing cases.

Association analysis of IL10, TNF-α and IL23R-IL12RB2 SNPs with Behçet's disease risk in Western Algeria

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Ouahiba eKhaib Dit Naib

2013-10-01

Full Text Available Objective: We have conducted the first study of the association of interleukin (IL-10, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α and IL23R-IL12RB2 regionSNPswith Behçet's disease (BD in Western Algeria. Methods: A total of 51 BD patients and 96 unrelated controls from West region of Algeria were genotyped by direct sequencing for 11 SNPs including 2 SNPsfrom the IL10 promoter [c.-819T>C (rs1800871, c.-592A>C (rs1800872], 6 SNPs from the TNF-α promoter [c.-1211T>C (rs1799964, c.-1043C>A (rs1800630, c.-1037C>T (rs1799724, c.-556G>A (rs1800750, c.-488G>A (rs1800629 and c.-418G>A (rs361525], and 3 SNPs from the IL23R-IL12RB2 region [g.67747415A>C (rs12119179, g.67740092G>A (rs11209032 and g.67760140T>C (rs924080]. Results: The minor alleles c.-819T and c.-592A were significantly associated with BD (OR= 2.18; 95% CI 1.28-3.73, p = 0.003; whereas, there was weaker association between TNF-αpromoter SNPs or IL23R-IL12RB2 region and disease risk.Conclusion: Unlike the TNF-αand the IL23R-IL12RB2 region SNPs, the two IL10 SNPs were strongly associated with BD. The -819T, and -592A alleles and the -819TT, -819CT, and -592AA and -592CA genotypes seem to be highly involved in the risk of developing of BD in the population of Western Algeria.

La sfida del trasferimento tecnologico Le Università italiane si raccontano

CERN Document Server

Piccaluga, Andrea

2012-01-01

L’opera presenta e descrive il fenomeno del trasferimento tecnologico da università a industria attraverso una prospettiva originale, da “insider”, cioè la prospettiva delle università. Il volume racconta, attraverso la penna degli stessi protagonisti, la nascita, la crescita e le esperienze degli Uffici di Trasferimento Tecnologico (TTO) delle principali università italiane, facendo emergere l’eterogeneità delle loro ambizioni, dei traguardi raggiunti e delle risorse a loro disposizione per la valorizzazione della ricerca scientifica. L’idea di fondo dell’opera è che i “numeri” danno una visione importante ma solo parziale di quello che è un TTO universitario. Il nostro lavoro a stretto contatto con i professionisti del trasferimento tecnologico ci ha dimostrato che l’attività di tali uffici è ricca di storie significative e ad alto contenuto formativo, dove l’elemento umano, e le modalità con cui esso è gestito, giocano un ruolo centrale nel trasferimento di conoscenza dal mon...

Material flow evaluation procedure for an integrated system in an optimal territorial range; Procedura per la valutazione dei flussi di materia di un sistema integrato in un ambito territoriale ottimale

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Florio, G.; Giordano, R.; Greco, G.; Prete, C. [Arcavacata di Rende Univ. della Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, CS (Italy). Dipt. di Meccanica

2000-06-01

The procedure illustrated in this paper defines the parameters to be considered for a credible temporal estimate Solid Urban Waste, the object of disposal in a generic Integrated System. Application to an Optima Territorial Range of the Calabria region allowed the attainable results that make up the starting datum to plan the main subsystems involved to be pointed out. Moreover, the strategic role of the objectives of Differentiated Collection and their temporal trend is confirmed. [Italian] La procedura illustrata nel presente lavoro definisce i parametri da considerare per una stima attendibile nel tempo dei RSU (Rifiuti Solidi Urbani) oggetto di smaltimento in un generico Sistema Integrato. L'applicazione ad un Ambito Territoriale Ottimale della Regione Calabria ha permesso di evidenziare i risultati ottenibili che costituiscono il dato di partenza per il dimensionamento dei principali sottosistemi coinvolti. E' inoltre confermato il ruolo strategico degli obiettivi di Raccolta Differenziata e dal loro andamento temporale.

Profitability of smart grid solutions applied in power grid

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Katić Nenad A.

2016-01-01

Full Text Available The idea of a Smart Grid solution has been developing for years, as complete solution for a power utility, consisting of different advanced technologies aimed at improving of the efficiency of operation. The trend of implementing various smart systems continues, e.g. Energy Management Systems, Grid Automation Systems, Advanced Metering Infrastructure, Smart power equipment, Distributed Energy Resources, Demand Response systems, etc. Futhermore, emerging technologies, such as energy storages, electrical vehicles or distributed generators, become integrated in distribution networks and systems. Nowadays, the idea of a Smart Grid solution becomes more realistic by full integration of all advanced operation technologies (OT within IT environment, providing the complete digitalization of an Utility (IT/OT integration. The overview of smart grid solutions, estimation of investments, operation costs and possible benefits are presented in this article, with discusison about profitability of such systems.

Application of synchronous grid-connected controller in the wind-solar-storage micro grid

OpenAIRE

Li, Hua; Ren, Yongfeng; Li, Le; Luo, Zhenpeng

2016-01-01

Recently, there has been an increasing interest in using distributed generators (DG) not only to inject power into the grid, but also to enhance the power quality. In this study, a space voltage pulse width modulation (SVPWM) control method is proposed for a synchronous grid-connected controller in a wind-solar-storage micro grid. This method is based on the appropriate topology of the synchronous controller. The wind-solar-storage micro grid is controlled to reconnect to the grid synchronous...

In vitro progesterone modulation on bacterial endotoxin-induced production of IL-1β, TNFα, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, MIP-1α, and MMP-9 in pre-labor human term placenta.

Science.gov (United States)

Garcia-Ruíz, G; Flores-Espinosa, P; Preciado-Martínez, E; Bermejo-Martínez, L; Espejel-Nuñez, A; Estrada-Gutierrez, G; Maida-Claros, R; Flores-Pliego, A; Zaga-Clavellina, Veronica

2015-10-07

During human pregnancy, infection/inflammation represents an important factor that increases the risk of developing preterm labor. The purpose of this study was to determine if pre-treatment with progesterone has an immunomodulatory effect on human placenta production of endotoxin-induced inflammation and degradation of extracellular matrix markers. Placentas were obtained under sterile conditions from pregnancies delivered at term before the onset of labor by cesarean section. Explants from central cotyledons of 10 human placentas were pre-treated with different concentrations of progesterone (0.01, 01, 1.0 μM) and then stimulated with 1000 ng/mL of LPS of Escherichia coli. Cytokines TNFα, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, MIP-1α, IL-10 concentrations in the culture medium were then measured by specific ELISA. Secretion profile of MMP-9 was evaluated by ELISA and zymogram. Statistical differences were determined by one-way ANOVA followed by the appropriate ad hoc test; P progesterone significantly blunted (73, 56, 56, 75, 25, 48 %) the secretion of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, MIP-1α, IL-10, respectively. The MMP-9 induced by LPS treatment was inhibited only with the highest concentration of progesterone. Mifepristone (RU486) blocked the immunosuppressive effect of progesterone. The present results support the concept that progesterone could be part of the compensatory mechanism that limits the inflammation-induced cytotoxic effects associated with an infection process during gestation.

Analysis of turbine-grid interaction of grid-connected wind turbine using HHT

Science.gov (United States)

Chen, A.; Wu, W.; Miao, J.; Xie, D.

2018-05-01

This paper processes the output power of the grid-connected wind turbine with the denoising and extracting method based on Hilbert Huang transform (HHT) to discuss the turbine-grid interaction. At first, the detailed Empirical Mode Decomposition (EMD) and the Hilbert Transform (HT) are introduced. Then, on the premise of decomposing the output power of the grid-connected wind turbine into a series of Intrinsic Mode Functions (IMFs), energy ratio and power volatility are calculated to detect the unessential components. Meanwhile, combined with vibration function of turbine-grid interaction, data fitting of instantaneous amplitude and phase of each IMF is implemented to extract characteristic parameters of different interactions. Finally, utilizing measured data of actual parallel-operated wind turbines in China, this work accurately obtains the characteristic parameters of turbine-grid interaction of grid-connected wind turbine.

Grid generation methods

CERN Document Server

Liseikin, Vladimir D

2017-01-01

This new edition provides a description of current developments relating to grid methods, grid codes, and their applications to actual problems. Grid generation methods are indispensable for the numerical solution of differential equations. Adaptive grid-mapping techniques, in particular, are the main focus and represent a promising tool to deal with systems with singularities. This 3rd edition includes three new chapters on numerical implementations (10), control of grid properties (11), and applications to mechanical, fluid, and plasma related problems (13). Also the other chapters have been updated including new topics, such as curvatures of discrete surfaces (3). Concise descriptions of hybrid mesh generation, drag and sweeping methods, parallel algorithms for mesh generation have been included too. This new edition addresses a broad range of readers: students, researchers, and practitioners in applied mathematics, mechanics, engineering, physics and other areas of applications.

IL-13 and the IL-13 receptor as therapeutic targets for asthma and allergic disease.

Science.gov (United States)

Mitchell, Jesse; Dimov, Vesselin; Townley, Robert G

2010-05-01

It is widely accepted that T-helper 2 cell (Th2) cytokines play an important role in the maintenance of asthma and allergy. Emerging evidence has highlighted the role of IL-13 in the pathogenesis of these diseases. In particular, IL-13 is involved in the regulation of IgE synthesis, mucus hypersecretion, subepithelial fibrosis and eosinophil infiltration, and has been associated with the regulation of certain chemokine receptors, notably CCR5. Thus, targeting IL-13 and its associated receptors may be a therapeutic approach to the treatment of asthma and/or allergy. Pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies are researching various strategies, based on this approach, aimed at binding IL-13, increasing the level of the IL-13 decoy receptor, IL-13Ralpha2, or blocking the effect of the chemokine receptor CCR5. This review focuses on the therapeutic potential of anti-IL-13 agents and their role in the treatment of asthma and allergy.

IL26 gene inactivation in Equidae.

Science.gov (United States)

Shakhsi-Niaei, M; Drögemüller, M; Jagannathan, V; Gerber, V; Leeb, T

2013-12-01

Interleukin-26 (IL26) is a member of the IL10 cytokine family. The IL26 gene is located between two other well-known cytokines genes of this family encoding interferon-gamma (IFNG) and IL22 in an evolutionary conserved gene cluster. In contrast to humans and most other mammals, mice lack a functional Il26 gene. We analyzed the genome sequences of other vertebrates for the presence or absence of functional IL26 orthologs and found that the IL26 gene has also become inactivated in several equid species. We detected a one-base pair frameshift deletion in exon 2 of the IL26 gene in the domestic horse (Equus caballus), Przewalski horse (Equus przewalskii) and donkey (Equus asinus). The remnant IL26 gene in the horse is still transcribed and gives rise to at least five alternative transcripts. None of these transcripts share a conserved open reading frame with the human IL26 gene. A comparative analysis across diverse vertebrates revealed that the IL26 gene has also independently been inactivated in a few other mammals, including the African elephant and the European hedgehog. The IL26 gene thus appears to be highly variable, and the conserved open reading frame has been lost several times during mammalian evolution. © 2013 The Authors, Animal Genetics © 2013 Stichting International Foundation for Animal Genetics.

L’INSEGNAMENTO DELLE SCIENZE IN EUROPA: ASPETTI LINGUISTICI A CONFRONTO (ITALIA, DANIMARCA, GALLES

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Silvia Marianna Bollone

2015-02-01

Full Text Available La componente linguistica riveste un ruolo prioritario nell’insegnamento-apprendimento delle scienze, specificamente prescritto dai programmi scolastici attualmente vigenti in Europa e pienamente accolto dalle Indicazioni nazionali per il curricolo della scuola dell'infanzia e del primo ciclo d’istruzione, di cui D.M. 254/2012. Il presente lavoro intende indagare l’incidenza dell’aspetto linguistico-comunicativo nel processo di insegnamento-apprendimento delle scienze nell’ambito di tre differenti contesti europei: l’Italia, la Danimarca e il Galles, nella fascia di età compresa all’incirca tra gli 11 e 14 anni, corrispondente per l’Italia alla Scuola secondaria di primo grado, per la Danimarca ad un segmento della Folkeskole, e per il Galles alla fase iniziale della Secondary School. La ricerca, incentrata su uno specifico argomento del programma di scienze comune ai tre sistemi scolastici, prevede un’analisi dei programmi ministeriali, delle programmazioni degli insegnanti, dei manuali in uso nelle scuole, nell’intento di definire il ruolo assegnato agli aspetti linguistici nell’insegnamento delle scienze sia livello legislativo-istituzionale che nella quotidiana pratica didattica.  Teaching science in Europe: language issues compared (Italy, Denmark, Wales The linguistic component plays a major role in the teaching and learning of science, specifically prescribed by the curriculum currently in force in Europe and fully supported by the National Guidelines for the curriculum in kindergarten and the first cycle of education, regulated by DM 254/2012. This paper aims to investigate the linguistic-communicative impact in the process of teaching and learning science in three different European contexts: Italy, Denmark and Wales in children aged 11 to 14, corresponding in Italy to Middle school, in Denmark to a segment of the Folkeskole, and in Wales to the initial phase of the Secondary school. The research focused on a

Direct regulation of IL-2 by curcumin.

Science.gov (United States)

Oh, Jin-Gyo; Hwang, Da-Jeong; Heo, Tae-Hwe

2018-01-01

Interleukin-2 (IL-2) is a crucial growth factor for both regulatory and effector T cells. Thus, IL-2 plays a critical role in the stimulation and suppression of immune responses. Recently, anti-IL-2 antibodies (Abs) have been shown to possess strong IL-2 modulatory activities by affecting the interaction between IL-2 and IL-2 receptors. In this study, we screened an herbal library to identify a compound that regulates IL-2, which resulted in the identification of curcumin as a direct binder and inhibitor of IL-2. Curcumin is a phytochemical with well-known anti-cancer properties. In this study, curcumin mimicked or altered the binding pattern of anti-IL-2 Abs against IL-2 and remarkably inhibited the interaction of recombinant IL-2 with the IL-2 receptor α, CD25. Interestingly, curcumin neutralized the biological activities of IL-2 both in vitro and in vivo. In this report, we elucidated the unsolved mechanism of the anti-cancer effect of curcumin by identifying IL-2 as a direct molecular target. Curcumin, as a small molecule IL-2 modulator, has the potential to be used to treat IL-2 related pathologic conditions. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Increased Circulating Th17 Cells, Serum IL-17A, and IL-23 in Takayasu Arteritis.

Science.gov (United States)

Misra, Durga Prasanna; Chaurasia, Smriti; Misra, Ramnath

2016-01-01

Introduction. Th17, γδT, NK, and NKT cells in peripheral blood and serum IL-17 and IL-23 in Takayasu arteritis (TA) were measured and correlated with disease activity. Methods. Th17 (anti-CD3APC, CD4PECy7, and IL-17PE), NKT, NK (anti-CD3APC, CD56FITC), and γδT (anti-CD3FITC and γδTCRAPC) cells were enumerated by flow cytometry in peripheral blood of 30 patients with TA (ACR1990 criteria) and 20 healthy controls, serum IL-17 and IL-23 measured by ELISA. Relation with disease activity (NIH criteria, ITAS2010) was analyzed (using nonparametric tests, median with interquartile range). Results. Mean age of patients was 33.47 ± 11.78 years (25 females); mean symptom duration was 7.1 ± 5.3 years. 13 were not on immunosuppressants; 12 were active (ITAS2010 ≥ 4). The percentage of Th17 cells was significantly expanded in TA (patients 2.1 (1.5-3.2) versus controls 0.75 (0.32-1.2); p < 0.0001) with no differences in other cell populations. Serum IL-17 and IL-23 (pg/mL) in patients (6.2 (4.6-8.5) and 15 (14.9-26.5), resp.) were significantly higher (p < 0.001) than controls (3.9 (3.9-7.3) and undetectable median value, resp.). Subgroup analysis revealed no correlation of Th17 cells, serum IL-17, and IL-23 with disease activity or medications, nor any significant difference before and after medication. Conclusions. There is significant expansion of Th17 cells and elevated serum IL-17 and IL-23 levels in TA patients compared to healthy controls.

Macrophages as IL-25/IL-33-responsive cells play an important role in the induction of type 2 immunity.

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Zhonghan Yang

Full Text Available Type 2 immunity is essential for host protection against nematode infection but is detrimental in allergic inflammation or asthma. There is a major research focus on the effector molecules and specific cell types involved in the initiation of type 2 immunity. Recent work has implicated an important role of epithelial-derived cytokines, IL-25 and IL-33, acting on innate immune cells that are believed to be the initial sources of type 2 cytokines IL-4/IL-5/IL-13. The identities of the cell types that mediate the effects of IL-25/IL-33, however, remain to be fully elucidated. In the present study, we demonstrate that macrophages as IL-25/IL-33-responsive cells play an important role in inducing type 2 immunity using both in vitro and in vivo approaches. Macrophages produced type 2 cytokines IL-5 and IL-13 in response to the stimulation of IL-25/IL-33 in vitro, or were the IL-13-producing cells in mice administrated with exogenous IL-33 or infected with Heligmosomoides bakeri. In addition, IL-33 induced alternative activation of macrophages primarily through autocrine IL-13 activating the IL-4Rα-STAT6 pathway. Moreover, depletion of macrophages attenuated the IL-25/IL-33-induced type 2 immunity in mice, while adoptive transfer of IL-33-activated macrophages into mice with a chronic Heligmosomoides bakeri infection induced worm expulsion accompanied by a potent type 2 protective immune response. Thus, macrophages represent a unique population of the innate immune cells pivotal to type 2 immunity and a potential therapeutic target in controlling type 2 immunity-mediated inflammatory pathologies.

Association between genes encoding components of the IL-4/IL-4 receptor pathway and dermatitis in children.

Science.gov (United States)

Hussein, Yousri M; Shalaby, Sally M; Nassar, Amani; Alzahrani, Saad S; Alharbi, Ayman S; Nouh, Maha

2014-07-25

To determine whether IL-4, IL-4Rα and STAT6 polymorphisms are associated with susceptibility to dermatitis in Egyptian children. We genotyped three groups of children, consisting of 106 atopic dermatitis (AD) children, 95 non-AD children, and 100 of healthy controls, for IL-4 (-590 C/T), (-33 C/T), IL-4Rα (I50V), (Q576R) and STAT6 (2964 G/A), (2892 C/T) gene polymorphisms using PCR-RFLP assay. Total serum IgE and serum IL-4 levels were detected by ELISA. There was a non-significant association of IL-4 -590 C/T, -33 C/T polymorphisms in the children with non-AD or those with AD when compared with the controls. We identified a significant association between IL-4Rα I50V, Q576R polymorphisms and dermatitis susceptibility in AD (p=0.002, dermatitis was found. Patients who were carriers of IL4 -590C, IL-4Rα I50V G, STAT6 2964 A and STAT6 2892 T had an increased risk of AD [OR and 95% CI: 3.2 (2.5-4.2), p=0.005]. Furthermore, there was no relation between each polymorphism and serum IL-4 level (p>0.05 for each) while homozygosity for the risk alleles of IL-4, IL-4Rα and STAT6 SNPs were significantly associated with increased total IgE levels in all subjects. In Egyptian children, the IL-4Rα and the STAT6 polymorphism may play a role in susceptibility to AD. In addition, gene-gene interaction between the IL-4, the IL-4Rα and the STAT6 significantly increases an individual's susceptibility to AD. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

IFN-gamma Impairs Release of IL-8 by IL-1beta-stimulated A549 Lung Carcinoma Cells

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Pfeilschifter Josef

2008-09-01

Full Text Available Abstract Background Production of interferon (IFN-γ is key to efficient anti-tumor immunity. The present study was set out to investigate effects of IFNγ on the release of the potent pro-angiogenic mediator IL-8 by human A549 lung carcinoma cells. Methods A549 cells were cultured and stimulated with interleukin (IL-1β alone or in combination with IFNγ. IL-8 production by these cells was analyzed with enzyme linked immuno sorbent assay (ELISA. mRNA-expression was analyzed by real-time PCR and RNase protection assay (RPA, respectively. Expression of inhibitor-κ Bα, cellular IL-8, and cyclooxygenase-2 was analyzed by Western blot analysis. Results Here we demonstrate that IFNγ efficiently reduced IL-8 secretion under the influence of IL-1β. Surprisingly, real-time PCR analysis and RPA revealed that the inhibitory effect of IFNγ on IL-8 was not associated with significant changes in mRNA levels. These observations concurred with lack of a modulatory activity of IFNγ on IL-1β-induced NF-κB activation as assessed by cellular IκB levels. Moreover, analysis of intracellular IL-8 suggests that IFNγ modulated IL-8 secretion by action on the posttranslational level. In contrast to IL-8, IL-1β-induced cyclooxygenase-2 expression and release of IL-6 were not affected by IFNγ indicating that modulation of IL-1β action by this cytokine displays specificity. Conclusion Data presented herein agree with an angiostatic role of IFNγ as seen in rodent models of solid tumors and suggest that increasing T helper type 1 (Th1-like functions in lung cancer patients e.g. by local delivery of IFNγ may mediate therapeutic benefit via mechanisms that potentially include modulation of pro-angiogenic IL-8.

Evaluating ESWL-induced renal injury based on urinary TNF-α, IL-1α, and IL-6 levels.

Science.gov (United States)

Goktas, Cemal; Coskun, Abdurrahman; Bicik, Zerrin; Horuz, Rahim; Unsal, Ibrahim; Serteser, Mustafa; Albayrak, Selami; Sarıca, Kemal

2012-10-01

Extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL) has dramatically changed the treatment of urinary lithiasis and has been the first treatment option for the majority of patients for more than two decades. Despite its significant benefits, it induces acute renal injury that extends from the papilla to the outer cortex. We evaluated the severity of the inflammatory response to ESWL by measuring the urinary excretion of the cytokines TNF-α, IL-1α, and IL-6. The study included 21 selected patients and 14 control subjects. All patients underwent the same ESWL procedure (2,500 shockwaves at 100 shockwaves/min and 0.039 J from the lithotripter). Urine TNF-α, IL-1α, and IL-6 levels were measured using standard ELISA kits. In the study population (patients and controls), we did not detect TNF-α in the urine samples. The levels of both IL-1α (2.5 pg/ml) and IL-6 (3.8 pg/ml) measured before ESWL were not significantly different from the control group (2.5 and 5.2 pg/ml, respectively; p > 0.05). Twenty-four hours after ESWL, in contrast to IL-1α (4 pg/ml), urine IL-6 (19.7 pg/ml) increased significantly (p ESWL, IL-1α increased to 5 pg/ml, while IL-6 (7 pg/ml) decreased to the control level. Urine cytokine levels may be used to evaluate the inflammatory response to ESWL. After ESWL, IL-6 levels increased in the early phase, while IL-1α levels increased later. These two markers may be used to measure the severity of inflammation. In contrast to IL-1α and IL-6, urine TNF-α excretion was not increased by ESWL. We believe that the inflammatory response to ESWL can be detected by the urinary excretion of IL-1α for up to 14 days.

Evaluation of IL-4, IL-17, and IFN-γ Levels in PatientsWith Breast Cancer

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Mina Rohani Borj

2017-03-01

Full Text Available Introduction: Tumor growth depends on intrinsic properties of malignant tumor and tumor microenvironment. Cytokines are secreted substances of the tumor microenvironment which are widely produced by tumor and immune cells. The aim of this research was to evaluate concentrations of interleukin 4 (IL-4, interleukin 7 (IL-17 and interferon gamma (IFN-γ in the breast cancer microenvironment. Methods: One hundred sixteen women between 18-73 years of age (61.15 ± 24.39 were enrolled in this study. Based on pathologic diagnostic assessment, patients were divided into 2 categories: those affected with benign breast tumor, and the subjects suffering from malignant breast tumors. Biopsy specimens were collected. Following homogenization, IFN-γ, IL-17, and IL-4 concentrations were determined in tumor tissues, adjacent tissues of the tumor, and blood serum samples of these 2 groups of patients by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA method. Results: Concentrations of IFN-γ, IL-17, and IL-4 were measured in tumor tissue samples, adjacent tissues of the tumor, and blood serum samples in both groups. Malignant breast tumor samples had significantly higher concentrations of IL-4 and IL-17 compared with benign breast tumor samples. And also the concentration of IFN-γ in adjacent tissues of the tumor and in blood serums in patients with malignant breast tumors was significantly higher than that in the benign breast tumor samples. However, there was no significant difference between the concentration of IFN-γ in neoplastic breast tumor tissues and that in the benign breast tumor tissues (P > 0. 05. Conclusion: Our data indicated that IL-17 and IL-4 cytokines but not IFN-γ had higher concentrations in the subjects with malignant tumor compared with those with benign tumor. The present findings indicated that the concentrations of IL-4 and IL-17 in tumor tissues may be associated with the severity of breast malignancy.

A preliminary study on the association of single nucleotide polymorphisms of interleukin 4 (IL4, IL13, IL4 receptor alpha (IL4Rα & Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4 genes with asthma in Indian adults

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Parisa Davoodi

2015-01-01

Full Text Available Background & objectives: Interleukin 4 (IL4 and IL13 genes are believed to be responsible for inflammation of the airways in asthmatics. These share a common receptor component called IL4Rα which is another potentially important candidate gene linked to asthma phenotypes. Another gene Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4 might affect the incidence or progression of asthma through the expression of proinflammatory genes. Several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs in IL4, IL13, IL4Rα and TLR4 have been reported to be linked to asthma or related phenotypes in several ethnic populations using linkage studies and association studies. However, the results have not been consistent. We investigated five SNPs (C-589T and C-33T of IL4, G+2044A of IL13, A+1902G of IL4Rα, and A+896G of TLR4 in patients with adult onset asthma to evaluate their role in manifestation and severity of asthma. Methods: Adult (>18 yr of age patients with asthma (n=100 and healthy controls (n=50 were included in the study. Genotyping was performed using sequenom MassARRAY technology. Results: The mutant alleles of the C-589T and C-33T SNPs in the promoter region of IL4 were present in 4 per cent patients with asthma but absent from the control group suggesting that the variations in IL4 may contribute to asthma occurrence. The SNPs of other genes were seen in both controls and patients. Interpretation & conclusions: The results suggest the possible association between the genetic distribution of C-589T and C-33T SNPs of IL4 with asthma in Indian adults.

IL-17 for therapy.

Science.gov (United States)

Kurschus, Florian C; Moos, Sonja

2017-09-01

The cytokine IL-17 is now a target for an array of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies supposed to treat a variety of inflammatory diseases. The forerunner Secukinumab, an IL-17A neutralizing antibody, is meanwhile approved as first-line treatments for moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis, and as second-line treatment for psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. Ixekizumab and Brodalumab, both also targeting the IL-17 pathway, were also recently approved by the FDA for plaque psoriasis. Using mice overexpressing IL-17A in a tissue of choice, we showed that the ectopic expression of this cytokine in keratinocytes resulted in a spontaneous and very strong form of psoriasis-like dermatitis. Interestingly, this model showed some typical comorbidities found in humans with psoriasis. In this review, we will discuss why IL-17 is a good target especially in psoriasis and what we learned from mouse models about its functions in pathological situations. Copyright © 2017 Japanese Society for Investigative Dermatology. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A Generic Danish Distribution Grid Model for Smart Grid Technology Testing

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Cha, Seung-Tae; Wu, Qiuwei; Østergaard, Jacob

2012-01-01

This paper describes the development of a generic Danish distribution grid model for smart grid technology testing based on the Bornholm power system. The frequency dependent network equivalent (FDNE) method has been used in order to accurately preserve the desired properties and characteristics...... as a generic Smart Grid benchmark model for testing purposes....... by comparing the transient response of the original Bornholm power system model and the developed generic model under significant fault conditions. The results clearly show that the equivalent generic distribution grid model retains the dynamic characteristics of the original system, and can be used...

Impact of grid impedance variations on harmonic emission of grid-connected inverters

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Hoseinzadeh, Bakhtyar; Bak, Claus Leth; Blaabjerg, Frede

2017-01-01

This paper addresses harmonic magnification due to resonance circuits resulting from interaction between uncertain grid impedance and converter. The source of harmonic may be either the grid or inverter. It is demonstrated that unknown and unpredictable grid impedance may result in variable...

Endogenous IL-1 in Cognitive Function and Anxiety: A Study in IL-1RI−/− Mice

Science.gov (United States)

Murray, Carol L.; Obiang, Pauline; Bannerman, David; Cunningham, Colm

2013-01-01

Interleukin-1 (IL-1) is a key pro-inflammatory cytokine, produced predominantly by peripheral immune cells but also by glia and some neuronal populations within the brain. Its signalling is mediated via the binding of IL-1α or IL-1β to the interleukin-1 type one receptor (IL-1RI). IL-1 plays a key role in inflammation-induced sickness behaviour, resulting in depressed locomotor activity, decreased exploration, reduced food and water intake and acute cognitive deficits. Conversely, IL-1 has also been suggested to facilitate hippocampal-dependent learning and memory: IL-1RI−/− mice have been reported to show deficits on tasks of visuospatial learning and memory. We sought to investigate whether there is a generalised hippocampal deficit in IL-1RI−/− animals. Therefore, in the current study we compared wildtype (WT) mice to IL-1RI−/− mice using a variety of hippocampal-dependent learning and memory tasks, as well as tests of anxiety and locomotor activity. We found no difference in performance of the IL-1RI−/− mice compared to WT mice in a T-maze working memory task. In addition, the IL-1RI−/− mice showed normal learning in various spatial reference memory tasks including the Y-maze and Morris mater maze, although there was a subtle deficit in choice behaviour in a spatial discrimination, beacon watermaze task. IL-1RI−/− mice also showed normal memory for visuospatial context in the contextual fear conditioning paradigm. In the open field, IL-1RI−/− mice showed a significant increase in distance travelled and rearing behaviour compared to the WT mice and in the elevated plus-maze spent more time in the open arms than did the WT animals. The data suggest that, contrary to prior studies, IL-1RI−/− mice are not robustly impaired on hippocampal-dependent memory and learning but do display open field hyperactivity and decreased anxiety compared to WT mice. The results argue for a careful evaluation of the roles of endogenous IL-1 in

Preferential binding to Elk-1 by SLE-associated IL10 risk allele upregulates IL10 expression.

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Daisuke Sakurai

Full Text Available Immunoregulatory cytokine interleukin-10 (IL-10 is elevated in sera from patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE correlating with disease activity. The established association of IL10 with SLE and other autoimmune diseases led us to fine map causal variant(s and to explore underlying mechanisms. We assessed 19 tag SNPs, covering the IL10 gene cluster including IL19, IL20 and IL24, for association with SLE in 15,533 case and control subjects from four ancestries. The previously reported IL10 variant, rs3024505 located at 1 kb downstream of IL10, exhibited the strongest association signal and was confirmed for association with SLE in European American (EA (P = 2.7×10⁻⁸, OR = 1.30, but not in non-EA ancestries. SNP imputation conducted in EA dataset identified three additional SLE-associated SNPs tagged by rs3024505 (rs3122605, rs3024493 and rs3024495 located at 9.2 kb upstream, intron 3 and 4 of IL10, respectively, and SLE-risk alleles of these SNPs were dose-dependently associated with elevated levels of IL10 mRNA in PBMCs and circulating IL-10 protein in SLE patients and controls. Using nuclear extracts of peripheral blood cells from SLE patients for electrophoretic mobility shift assays, we identified specific binding of transcription factor Elk-1 to oligodeoxynucleotides containing the risk (G allele of rs3122605, suggesting rs3122605 as the most likely causal variant regulating IL10 expression. Elk-1 is known to be activated by phosphorylation and nuclear localization to induce transcription. Of interest, phosphorylated Elk-1 (p-Elk-1 detected only in nuclear extracts of SLE PBMCs appeared to increase with disease activity. Co-expression levels of p-Elk-1 and IL-10 were elevated in SLE T, B cells and monocytes, associated with increased disease activity in SLE B cells, and were best downregulated by ERK inhibitor. Taken together, our data suggest that preferential binding of activated Elk-1 to the IL10 rs3122605-G allele

IL-4 enhances IL-10 production in Th1 cells: implications for Th1 and Th2 regulation.

Science.gov (United States)

Mitchell, Ruth E; Hassan, Masriana; Burton, Bronwen R; Britton, Graham; Hill, Elaine V; Verhagen, Johan; Wraith, David C

2017-09-12

IL-10 is an immunomodulatory cytokine with a critical role in limiting inflammation in immune-mediated pathologies. The mechanisms leading to IL-10 expression by CD4 + T cells are being elucidated, with several cytokines implicated. We explored the effect of IL-4 on the natural phenomenon of IL-10 production by a chronically stimulated antigen-specific population of differentiated Th1 cells. In vitro, IL-4 blockade inhibited while addition of exogenous IL-4 to Th1 cultures enhanced IL-10 production. In the in vivo setting of peptide immunotherapy leading to a chronically stimulated Th1 phenotype, lack of IL-4Rα inhibited the induction of IL-10. Exploring the interplay of Th1 and Th2 cells through co-culture, Th2-derived IL-4 promoted IL-10 expression by Th1 cultures, reducing their pathogenicity in vivo. Co-culture led to upregulated c-Maf expression with no decrease in the proportion of T-bet + cells in these cultures. Addition of IL-4 also reduced the encephalitogenic capacity of Th1 cultures. These data demonstrate that IL-4 contributes to IL-10 production and that Th2 cells modulate Th1 cultures towards a self-regulatory phenotype, contributing to the cross-regulation of Th1 and Th2 cells. These findings are important in the context of Th1 driven diseases since they reveal how the Th1 phenotype and function can be modulated by IL-4.

Beyond grid security

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hoeft, B; Epting, U; Koenig, T

2008-01-01

While many fields relevant to Grid security are already covered by existing working groups, their remit rarely goes beyond the scope of the Grid infrastructure itself. However, security issues pertaining to the internal set-up of compute centres have at least as much impact on Grid security. Thus, this talk will present briefly the EU ISSeG project (Integrated Site Security for Grids). In contrast to groups such as OSCT (Operational Security Coordination Team) and JSPG (Joint Security Policy Group), the purpose of ISSeG is to provide a holistic approach to security for Grid computer centres, from strategic considerations to an implementation plan and its deployment. The generalised methodology of Integrated Site Security (ISS) is based on the knowledge gained during its implementation at several sites as well as through security audits, and this will be briefly discussed. Several examples of ISS implementation tasks at the Forschungszentrum Karlsruhe will be presented, including segregation of the network for administration and maintenance and the implementation of Application Gateways. Furthermore, the web-based ISSeG training material will be introduced. This aims to offer ISS implementation guidance to other Grid installations in order to help avoid common pitfalls

Grid simulator for power quality assessment of micro-grids

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Carrasco, Joaquin Eloy Garcia; Vasquez, Juan Carlos; Guerrero, Josep M.

2013-01-01

voltages, low-order harmonics and flicker. The aim of this equipment is to test the performance of a given system under such distorted voltages. A prototype of the simulator, consisting of two inverters connected back-to-back to a 380 V three-phase grid and feeding a micro-grid composed of two......-inverter interfaced distributed generators and a critical load was built and tested. A set of experimental results for linear purely resistive loads, non-linear loads and current-controlled inverters is presented to prove the capabilities of the simulator. Finally, a case study is presented by testing a micro-grid.......In this study, a grid simulator based on a back-to-back inverter topology with resonant controllers is presented. The simulator is able to generate three-phase voltages for a range of amplitudes and frequencies with different types of perturbations, such as voltage sags, steady-state unbalanced...

Marketing; Il marketing

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Muscigna, M [ENEA, Centro Ricerche Casaccia, S. Maria di Galeria, RM (Italy). Dipt. Innovazione

1999-07-01

The report discusses marketing strategies oriented to the organizations and analyzes its critical factors, which determine the success of the organization activity. [Italian] Il rapporto analizza i caratteri delle strategie del marketing orientato all'impresa. Vengono infine analizzati i fattori critici che determinano il successo o l'insuccesso delle scelte aziendali.

Construction of an expression system for bioactive IL-18 and generation of recombinant canine distemper virus expressing IL-18.

Science.gov (United States)

Liu, Yuxiu; Sato, Hiroki; Hamana, Masahiro; Moonan, Navita Anisia; Yoneda, Misako; Xia, Xianzhu; Kai, Chieko

2014-09-01

Interleukin 18 (IL-18) plays an important role in the T-helper-cell type 1 immune response against intracellular parasites, bacteria and viral infections. It has been widely used as an adjuvant for vaccines and as an anticancer agent. However, IL-18 protein lacks a typical signal sequence and requires cleavage into its mature active form by caspase 1. In this study, we constructed mammalian expression vectors carrying cDNA encoding mature canine IL-18 (cIL-18) or mouse IL-18 (mIL-18) fused to the human IL-2 (hIL-2) signal sequence. The expressed proIL-18 proteins were processed to their mature forms in the cells. The supernatants of cells transfected with these plasmids induced high interferon-γ production in canine peripheral blood mononuclear cells or mouse splenocytes, respectively, indicating the secretion of bioactive IL-18. Using reverse genetics, we also generated a recombinant canine distemper virus that expresses cIL-18 or mIL-18 fused to the hIL-2 signal sequence. As expected, both recombinant viruses produced mature IL-18 in the infected cells, which secreted bioactive IL-18. These results indicate that the signal sequence from hIL-2 is suitable for the secretion of mature IL-18. These recombinant viruses can also potentially be used as immunoadjuvants and agents for anticancer therapies in vivo.

La rappresentazione del sogno, due modelli a confronto: la metapsicologia di Sigmund Freud e la teoria del Codice Multiplo di Wilma Bucci

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Ilaria Bellavia

2007-09-01

Full Text Available Obiettivo di questo lavoro è quello di fornire le principali linee di orientamento teorico dell’approccio psicodinamico relative alla funzione del sogno. In tal senso ci si avvarrà della metapsicologia Freudiana, ma anche dei prestigiosi contributi sul carattere del sogno portati da Wilma Bucci. In particolare, si proporrà un parallelismo tra la metapsicologia e la teoria del Codice Multiplo. La teoria energetica di derivazione psicoanalitica mette in risalto alcuni punti cardine sul ruolo del sogno: 1 il sogno deriva dall’energia di un desiderio inconscio; 2 i sogni hanno la funzione di preservare il sonno; 3 la nozione di un censore che si attiva per distorcere e mascherare i contenuti latenti; 4 i contenuti manifesti hanno la funzione di nascondere il reale significato del sogno. Secondo la teoria del codice multiplo, il sogno ha un valore là dove fornisce l’accesso al significato emotivo che è stato dissociato, ma la funzione dell’elaborazione dell’informazione emotiva nel sogno è sovrapponibile a quella dell’elaborazione dell’informazione emotiva durante la veglia, in particolare per quanto riguarda il sonno REM.

Tangible Earth: Information design and “natural” disasters

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Mara Benadusi

2017-01-01

Full Text Available L’articolo analizza i processi di visualizzazione dei rischi che contraddistinguono le politiche globali di riduzione dei disastri, in particolare i manufatti digitali attraverso cui il mondo internazionale coinvolto nella gestione delle catastrofi cerca di visualizzare e rendere esperibile le minacce che incombono sul pianeta. Tali manufatti sono costruiti per facilitare esperienze capaci di offrire al tempo stesso evidenza quantitativa e corpo sociale alla natura dei rischi globali. Tangible Earth, il primo globo digitale interattivo, è il più sofisticato di simili artefatti perché ha l’ambizione di catturare un vasto ed eterogeneo pubblico di umani, chiamati a ricoprire il ruolo di coproduttori dei rischi che investono la Terra. Varie ontologie sono messe a confronto per sondare l’esperienza del globo terrestre mediata dalle apparecchiature digitali: da un lato, un’ontologia naturalista, che rappresenta la natura nella sua discontinuità rispetto al sociale, come forza sempre insorgente e imprevedibile nonostante gli sforzi di catturarla quantitativamente con la strumentazione di monitoraggio terrestre e il calcolo probabilistico; dall’altro, un’ontologia analogista in cui la natura diventa invece indistinguibile dal sociale in nome di una comune propensione alla resilienza tanto dei collettivi umani che dei non umani.

Resti che ritornano testi: il ruolo della memoria in una possibile risemantizzazione di luoghi.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Amedeo Trezza

2012-08-01

involved towards planning and managing of the territory. In this way the memory of what is left as a mark on the territory of a pre-existent order (already disappeared or disappearing could offer suggestions to political debates about planning. In this manner a radical change of the study perspective could be achieved; for instance, manufactures should be assumed not merely as precipitates of ideologies and political strategies but in fact as expressive, material and concrete rests (concretions... able to activate semiotic processes of recognizing identities and possibilities along with the opening of new meanings.

"Translation does not often demand genius": George Eliot e il ruolo del traduttore vittoriano

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Michela Marroni

2016-01-01

Full Text Available George Eliot’s formative years were characterised by her intense activity as a translator which she carried out with methodological scrupulousness and profound sense of responsibility. In her ambition to make a name for herself in the English cultural world she understood, from a very early age, that translation would be the best means of expanding her knowledge while measuring herself against original texts that had made an important impact on European culture. Although Eliot was proficient in several modern and ancient languages (namely, German, French, Italian and Spanish, Latin, Greek and Hebrew, most of her translations were from German. It was with her translation of Strauss’s Das Leben Jesu that she proved her skill as a translator. Through this work her name also became familiar in Victorian theological debates. No less important was her translation of Feuerbach’s Das Wesen Christentums which, in many respects, led to her acceptance into the most advanced literary and philosophical circles in London. On the strength of this, in 1855, Eliot published the essay Translations and Translators which she wrote from her point of view as an affirmed journalist who was perhaps already contemplating the idea of becoming a novelist. The essay reveals both Eliot’s acute awareness of translation as a demanding work and of the role of the translator as a mediator between different linguistic and cultural realities. By indicating Germany as an example to follow, since in that nation the great poets and novelists translated the English classics into German, Eliot bluntly declared that the translator must work with a sense of responsibility and moral commitment and always aim for perfection.

Il ruolo della “Scuola di Copenaghen” nel “Rimodellamento” Coseriano degli assiomi Saussuriani

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Jensen, Viggo Bank

2015-01-01

Based on a correspondence between Eugenio Coseriu (1921-2002) and Eli Fischer-Jørgensen (1911-2010), the article discusses the importance of Louis Hjelmslev (1899-1965) for the development of the theory of Coseriu. In a letter dated 1955, Fischer-Jørgensen agrees with Coseriu in his criticism of ...... to be a slight change in Coseriu’s view on content substance. This way, the article aims to show that Fischer-Jørgensen played an important role as a critical mediator between Hjelmslev and Coseriu.......Based on a correspondence between Eugenio Coseriu (1921-2002) and Eli Fischer-Jørgensen (1911-2010), the article discusses the importance of Louis Hjelmslev (1899-1965) for the development of the theory of Coseriu. In a letter dated 1955, Fischer-Jørgensen agrees with Coseriu in his criticism...

Funzionamento della giustizia civile e struttura finanziaria delle imprese: il ruolo del credito commerciale

OpenAIRE

Amanda Carmignani

2004-01-01

This paper empirically investigates the role of the efficiency of judicial enforcement in shaping firms� financial structure, by focusing on the choice between trade credit and alternative external sources. Suppliers have an advantage over other short-term lenders in enforcing credit contracts, thus being less dependent on the institutional mechanisms for the protection of creditor rights. Trade credit represents in-kind finance: in contrast with other investors, who lend cash, suppliers le...

LA VALORIZZAZIONE DI BENI CULTURALI IN AREE MARGINALI: IL RUOLO DELL’ANALISI MULTICRITERIA SPAZIALE

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Alessandra Oppio

2014-12-01

Full Text Available Enhancing cultural heritage in mountain regions is a crosscutting topic: environmental protection, social and cultural promotion and economic development have the same relevance and require to find a durable balance among them. Alpine areas bear geographic and permanent disadvantages. These include physical factors, such as morphology, climate, hydro-geologic risk, and human geography weaknesses, such as the low density, which prevents any arising of agglomeration economies, the isolation of local communities and the limited accessibility. Moreover, the opportunities for strengthen the territorial development by cultural heritage are not always consensual. Conflicts between preservation of tangible and intangible cultural values for local communities and the heritage marketing according to consumers’ needs often arise. This paper proposes an integrated approach able to consider the spatial features of each dimension of the problem and to support the definition of future development strategies. In particular, the proposed approach will be tested on a real case related to the system of historical castles located in the Valle d’Aosta Region in the North of Italy.

Il ruolo delle banche centrali nel funzionamento e nella regolazione del mercato delle eurovalute.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

R. OSSOLA

2014-08-01

Full Text Available The work assesses Eurocurrency markets and possible official interventions for regulating Eurobanking activity. The author first looks at the definition and origins of the Euromarket. Its structure, functioning and dimensions are then analysed. The problem of regulating Eurobanking activity is then taken into consideration as well as the nature and content of possible intervention by official authorities to regulate Eurocurrency flows.JEL: E58, E44

Smart grids - French Expertise

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

2015-11-01

The adaptation of electrical systems is the focus of major work worldwide. Bringing electricity to new territories, modernizing existing electricity grids, implementing energy efficiency policies and deploying renewable energies, developing new uses for electricity, introducing electric vehicles - these are the challenges facing a multitude of regions and countries. Smart Grids are the result of the convergence of electrical systems technologies with information and communications technologies. They play a key role in addressing the above challenges. Smart Grid development is a major priority for both public and private-sector actors in France. The experience of French companies has grown with the current French electricity system, a system that already shows extensive levels of 'intelligence', efficiency and competitiveness. French expertise also leverages substantial competence in terms of 'systems engineering', and can provide a tailored response to meet all sorts of needs. French products and services span all the technical and commercial building blocks that make up the Smart Grid value chain. They address the following issues: Improving the use and valuation of renewable energies and decentralized means of production, by optimizing the balance between generation and consumption. Strengthening the intelligence of the transmission and distribution grids: developing 'Supergrid', digitizing substations in transmission networks, and automating the distribution grids are the focus of a great many projects designed to reinforce the 'self-healing' capacity of the grid. Improving the valuation of decentralized flexibilities: this involves, among others, deploying smart meters, reinforcing active energy efficiency measures, and boosting consumers' contribution to grid balancing, via practices such as demand response which implies the aggregation of flexibility among residential, business, and/or industrial sites. Addressing current technological challenges, in

Power grid complex network evolutions for the smart grid

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Pagani, Giuliano Andrea; Aiello, Marco

2014-01-01

The shift towards an energy grid dominated by prosumers (consumers and producers of energy) will inevitably have repercussions on the electricity distribution infrastructure. Today the grid is a hierarchical one delivering energy from large scale facilities to end-users. Tomorrow it will be a

The role of IL-17 in psoriasis.

Science.gov (United States)

Malakouti, Mona; Brown, Gabrielle Elena; Wang, Eva; Koo, John; Levin, Ethan C

2015-02-01

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition traditionally believed to involve the Th1 pathway. Recently, the IL-23/Th17/IL-17 pathway has been highlighted in the pathogenesis of psoriasis and other autoimmune inflammatory conditions. From a clinician's perspective, we sought to review the basic science data relevant to IL-17's role in psoriasis pathogenesis. We performed a Pubmed and Web of Knowledge search for English articles starting from 1990 that discussed the Th17 pathway. Search terms such as "IL-17" and "psoriasis" were utilized. The IL-17 pathway is regulated by IL-23, a cytokine that is vital for the expansion and maintenance of the Th17 cell population. Th17 derived cytokines (IL-17A, IL-17F, IL-17A/F and IL-22) were elevated in both psoriasis-like murine models and human psoriatic lesional biopsies. Ixekizumab (anti-IL-17A) treatment of psoriasis was found to normalize levels of IL-17 downstream gene products. Both preclinical and clinical studies support the central role of IL-17 in the pathogenesis of psoriasis.