Distributions of nonsupersymmetric flux vacua

We continue the study of the distribution of nonsupersymmetric flux vacua in IIb string theory compactified on Calabi-Yau manifolds, as in hep-th/0404116. We show that the basic structure of this problem is that of finding eigenvectors of the matrix of second derivatives of the superpotential, and that many features of the results are determined by features of the generic ensemble of such matrices, the CI ensemble of Altland and Zirnbauer originating in mesoscopic physics. We study some simple examples in detail, exhibiting various factors which can favor low or high scale supersymmetry breaking.Comment: 28 pages, JHEP Latex format. v2: a correction further favoring high scale, v3: minor clarification

Physics of String Flux Compactifications

We provide a qualitative review of flux compactifications of string theory, focusing on broad physical implications and statistical methods of analysis.Comment: 39 pages, Latex ar2e.cl

Combinatorial classification of quantum lens spaces

We answer the question of how large the dimension of a quantum lens space must be, compared to the primary parameter $r$, for the isomorphism class to depend on the secondary parameters. Since classification results in C*-algebra theory reduces this question to one concerning a certain kind of $SL$-equivalence of integer matrices of a special form, our approach is entirely combinatorial and based on the counting of certain paths in the graphs shown by Hong and Szyma\'nski to describe the quantum lens spaces.Comment: 27 pages, 2 figure

Triazolinedione-'clicked' poly(phosphoester)s : systematic adjustment of thermal properties

The thermal properties of halogen-free flame retardant poly(phosphoester)s from acyclic diene metathesis polycondensation have been optimized by a systematic post-modification using 1,2,4-triazoline- 3,5-dione derivatives. The straightforward modification not only increased their glass transition temperatures significantly but also improved the thermal stability with respect to their char yields

Influence of the Fibroblastic Reticular Network on Cell-Cell Interactions in Lymphoid Organs

Secondary lymphoid organs (SLO), such as lymph nodes and the spleen, display a complex micro-architecture. In the T cell zone the micro-architecture is provided by a network of fibroblastic reticular cells (FRC) and their filaments. The FRC network is thought to enhance the interaction between immune cells and their cognate antigen. However, the effect of the FRC network on cell interaction cannot be quantified to date because of limitations in immunological methodology. We use computational models to study the influence of different densities of FRC networks on the probability that two cells meet. We developed a 3D cellular automaton model to simulate cell movements and interactions along the FRC network inside lymphatic tissue. We show that the FRC network density has only a small effect on the probability of a cell to come into contact with a static or motile target. However, damage caused by a disruption of the FRC network is greatest at FRC densities corresponding to densities observed in the spleen of naïve mice. Our analysis suggests that the FRC network as a guiding structure for moving T cells has only a minor effect on the probability to find a corresponding dendritic cell. We propose alternative hypotheses by which the FRC network might influence the functionality of immune responses in a more significant way

Main-chain water-soluble polyphosphoesters: multi-functional polymers as degradable PEG-alternatives for biomedical applications

Polyphosphoesters (PPEs) are a class of (bio)degradable polymers with high chemical versatility and functionality. In particular, water-soluble PPEs with the phosphoester group in the polymer backbone are currently discussed as a potential alternative to poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG). Ring-opening polymerization of typically 5-membered cyclic phosphoesters gives straightforward access to various well-defined PPEs. Several PPE candidates have proven their biocompatibility in vitro in terms of cytocompatibility, antifouling properties, “stealth effect”, degradability (hydrolytic and enzymatic), and some promising in vivo results in drug delivery vehicles. The possibility to control the properties with the appropriate tuning of the lateral chain makes PPEs especially appealing. This review summarizes recent developments of such PPEs for biomedical applications, e.g. in protein-polymer conjugates, hydrogels for tissue engineering, or nanocarriers for drug and gene delivery. We summarize the progress made over the years, highlighting the strengths and the shortcomings of PPEs for these applications to date. We critically evaluate the current state of the art, try to assess their potential and to predict future perspectives, shedding light on the pathway that needs to be followed to translate into clinics