Abstract: The present invention relates to transgene expression systems, related pharmaceutical compositions, and methods of making and using them. Preferred systems employ an adenovirus transgene expression vector comprising DNA sequence encoding a transgene which codes for a desired product, expressibly contained within an adenovirus vector containing at least a portion of the E3 region and certain portions of the E4 region. The E4 portions comprise the open reading frame sequence known as E4ORF3 and at least one other portion of E4. Preferably the E4 portion of the vector (or "E4 cassette") includes E4ORF3 and at least one other portion selected from E4ORF4, E4ORF6/7 and E4ORF3/4. The invention has a number of important features including improving persistency of transgene expression in a desired host cell. The transgene expression systems of the present invention are useful for a variety of applications including providing persistent cellular expression of the transgene in vitro and in vivo.

Abstract: A rubber composition of improved hysteretic and physical properties which make it suitable for forming a tire tread, notably a tire tread of reduced rolling resistance, the rubber composition including carbon black having silica fixed to its surface as the majority portion of reinforcing filler and at least one functionalized diene polymer having at the end of its chain a silanol function or a polysiloxane block including a silanol end or a diene polymer modified along its chain by silanol functions.

Abstract: The invention is directed to novel adenoviral vectors which are capable of facilitating persistent expression of a transgene which is delivered by the vector to a cell. The vectors are E1/partial E3 deleted vectors which contain a transgene operably linked to expression control sequences, preferably the CMV promoter. The invention is also directed to compositions comprising the adenoviral vectors of the invention and to methods for providing persistent expression of a transgene to the cells of an individual by administration of the compositions.

Abstract: A window assembly is provided for use at a downhole location in a first wellbore to control access to or allow isolation of a second wellbore extending from the first wellbore. The window assembly is included as an integral part of a production tubing string disposed within the first wellbore. A slot is formed in the window assembly. The window assembly is preferably installed at a downhole location aligned to an opening from the first wellbore into the second wellbore whereby well tools may move between the longitudinal bore of the window assembly and the second wellbore. Multiple guide surfaces are provided in the slot to direct movement of tools between the longitudinal bore and the window assembly and the second wellbore or vice versa. One of the guide surfaces on the slot preferably is formed with approximately the same angle at which the second wellbore intersects the first wellbore.

Abstract: The invention is concerned with a process for the production of a solution of N-methylmorpholine-N-oxide in water, characterized by the following steps:(a) providing an aqueous solution containing N-methylmorpholine and morpholine and exhibiting a pH value of from 6.0 to 9.0, thereafter(b) treating said aqueous solution with a peroxidic oxidant to oxidize N-methylmorpholine to N-methylmorpholine-N-oxide.