Sample records for analysis phase ii

  1. Using phase II data for the analysis of phase III studies: An application in rare diseases.

    PubMed

    Wandel, Simon; Neuenschwander, Beat; Röver, Christian; Friede, Tim

    2017-06-01

    Clinical research and drug development in orphan diseases are challenging, since large-scale randomized studies are difficult to conduct. Formally synthesizing the evidence is therefore of great value, yet this is rarely done in the drug-approval process. Phase III designs that make better use of phase II data can facilitate drug development in orphan diseases. A Bayesian meta-analytic approach is used to inform the phase III study with phase II data. It is particularly attractive, since uncertainty of between-trial heterogeneity can be dealt with probabilistically, which is critical if the number of studies is small. Furthermore, it allows quantifying and discounting the phase II data through the predictive distribution relevant for phase III. A phase III design is proposed which uses the phase II data and considers approval based on a phase III interim analysis. The design is illustrated with a non-inferiority case study from a Food and Drug Administration approval in herpetic keratitis (an orphan disease). Design operating characteristics are compared to those of a traditional design, which ignores the phase II data. An analysis of the phase II data reveals good but insufficient evidence for non-inferiority, highlighting the need for a phase III study. For the phase III study supported by phase II data, the interim analysis is based on half of the patients. For this design, the meta-analytic interim results are conclusive and would justify approval. In contrast, based on the phase III data only, interim results are inconclusive and require further evidence. To accelerate drug development for orphan diseases, innovative study designs and appropriate methodology are needed. Taking advantage of randomized phase II data when analyzing phase III studies looks promising because the evidence from phase II supports informed decision-making. The implementation of the Bayesian design is straightforward with public software such as R.

  2. Analysis of phase II studies on targeted agents and subsequent phase III trials: what are the predictors for success?

    PubMed

    Chan, John K; Ueda, Stefanie M; Sugiyama, Valerie E; Stave, Christopher D; Shin, Jacob Y; Monk, Bradley J; Sikic, Branimir I; Osann, Kathryn; Kapp, Daniel S

    2008-03-20

    To identify the characteristics of phase II studies that predict for subsequent "positive" phase III trials (those that reached the proposed primary end points of study or those wherein the study drug was superior to the standard regimen investigating targeted agents in advanced tumors. We identified all phase III clinical trials of targeted therapies against advanced cancers published from 1985 to 2005. Characteristics of the preceding phase II studies were reviewed to identify predictive factors for success of the subsequent phase III trial. Data were analyzed using the chi(2) test and logistic regression models. Of 351 phase II studies, 167 (47.6%) subsequent phase III trials were positive and 184 (52.4%) negative. Phase II studies from multiple rather than single institutions were more likely to precede a successful trial (60.4% v 39.4%; P < .001). Positive phase II results were more likely to lead to a successful phase III trial (50.8% v 22.5%; P = .003). The percentage of successful trials from pharmaceutical companies was significantly higher compared with academic, cooperative groups, and research institutes (89.5% v 44.2%, 45.2%, and 46.3%, respectively; P = .002). On multivariate analysis, these factors and shorter time interval between publication of phase II results and III study publication were independent predictive factors for a positive phase III trial. In phase II studies of targeted agents, multiple- versus single-institution participation, positive phase II trial, pharmaceutical company-based trials, and shorter time period between publication of phase II to phase III trial were independent predictive factors of success in a phase III trial. Investigators should be cognizant of these factors in phase II studies before designing phase III trials.

  3. Movement Analysis Applied to the Basketball Jump Shot--Part II.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Martin, Thomas P.

    1981-01-01

    The jump shot is one of the most important shots in the game of basketball. The movement analysis of the jump shot designates four phases: (1) preparatory position; (2) movement phase I (crouch); (3) movement phase II (jump); and (4) follow-through. (JN)

  4. Challenges Facing Early Phase Trials Sponsored by the National Cancer Institute: An Analysis of Corrective Action Plans to Improve Accrual.

    PubMed

    Massett, Holly A; Mishkin, Grace; Rubinstein, Larry; Ivy, S Percy; Denicoff, Andrea; Godwin, Elizabeth; DiPiazza, Kate; Bolognese, Jennifer; Zwiebel, James A; Abrams, Jeffrey S

    2016-11-15

    Accruing patients in a timely manner represents a significant challenge to early phase cancer clinical trials. The NCI Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program analyzed 19 months of corrective action plans (CAP) received for slow-accruing phase I and II trials to identify slow accrual reasons, evaluate whether proposed corrective actions matched these reasons, and assess the CAP impact on trial accrual, duration, and likelihood of meeting primary scientific objectives. Of the 135 CAPs analyzed, 69 were for phase I trials and 66 for phase II trials. Primary reasons cited for slow accrual were safety/toxicity (phase I: 48%), design/protocol concerns (phase I: 42%, phase II: 33%), and eligibility criteria (phase I: 41%, phase II: 35%). The most commonly proposed corrective actions were adding institutions (phase I: 43%, phase II: 85%) and amending the trial to change eligibility or design (phase I: 55%, phase II: 44%). Only 40% of CAPs provided proposed corrective actions that matched the reasons given for slow accrual. Seventy percent of trials were closed to accrual at time of analysis (phase I = 48; phase II = 46). Of these, 67% of phase I and 70% of phase II trials met their primary objectives, but they were active three times longer than projected. Among closed trials, 24% had an accrual rate increase associated with a greater likelihood of meeting their primary scientific objectives. Ultimately, trials receiving CAPs saw improved accrual rates. Future trials may benefit from implementing CAPs early in trial life cycles, but it may be more beneficial to invest in earlier accrual planning. Clin Cancer Res; 22(22); 5408-16. ©2016 AACRSee related commentary by Mileham and Kim, p. 5397. ©2016 American Association for Cancer Research.

  5. Hazardous Materials Routing Study Phase II: Analysis of Hazardous Materials Truck Routes in Proximity to the Dallas Central Business District

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1985-10-01

    This report summarizes the findings from the second phase of a two-part analysis of hazardous materials truck routes in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Phase II of this study analyzes the risk of transporting hazardous materials on freeways and arterial ...

  6. Phase I, open-cycle absorption solar cooling. Part IV. Executive summary analysis and resolution of critical issues and recommendations for Phase II. Final report

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Wood, B.D.

    The objective of this project is to advance lower cost solar cooling technology with the feasibility analysis, design and evaluation of proof-of-concept open cycle solar cooling concepts. The work is divided into three phases, with planned completion of each phase before proceeding with the following phase: Phase I - performance/economic/environmental related analysis and exploratory studies; Phase II - design and construction of an experimental system, including evaluative testing; Phase III - extended system testing during operation and engineering modifications as required. For Phase I, analysis and resolution of critical issues were completed with the objective of developing design specifications formore » an improved prototype OCA system.« less

  7. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Noel, Donna

    This project integrated state-of-the-art exploration technologies with a geologic framework and reservoir modeling to ultimately determine the efficacy of future geothermal production within the PLPT reservation. The information gained during this study should help the PLPT to make informed decisions regarding construction of a geothermal power plant. Additional benefits included the transfer of new technologies and geothermal data to the geothermal industry and it created and/or preserved nearly three dozen jobs accordance with the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. A variety of tasks were conducted to achieve the above stated objectives. The following are the tasks completed withinmore » the project: 1. Permitting 2. Shallow temperature survey 3. Seismic data collection and analysis 4. Fracture stress analysis 5. Phase I reporting Permitting 7. Shallow temperature survey 8. Seismic data collection and analysis 9. Fracture stress analysis 10. Phase I reporting 11. Drilling two new wells 12. Borehole geophysics 13. Phase II reporting 14. Well testing and geochemical analysis 15. Three-dimensional geologic model 16. Three-dimensional reservoir analysis 17. Reservation wide geothermal potential analysis 18. Phase III reporting Phase I consisted of tasks 1 – 5, Phase II tasks 6 – 8, and Phase III tasks 9 – 13. This report details the results of Phase III tasks. Reports are available for Phase I, and II as separate documents.« less

  8. The Systems Approach to Functional Job Analysis. Task Analysis of the Physician's Assistant: Volume II--Curriculum and Phase I Basic Core Courses and Volume III--Phases II and III--Clinical Clerkships and Assignments.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wake Forest Univ., Winston Salem, NC. Bowman Gray School of Medicine.

    This publication contains a curriculum developed through functional job analyses for a 24-month physician's assistant training program. Phase 1 of the 3-phase program is a 6-month basic course program in clinical and bioscience principles and is required of all students regardless of their specialty interest. Phase 2 is a 6 to 10 month period of…

  9. Life cycle and economic efficiency analysis phase II : durable pavement markings.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2011-04-01

    This report details the Phase II analysis of the life cycle and economic efficiency of inlaid tape : and thermoplastic. Waterborne paint was included as a non-durable for comparison purposes : only. In order to find the most economical product for sp...

  10. LED street lighting evaluation -- phase II : LED specification and life-cycle cost analysis.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2015-01-01

    Phase II of this study focused on developing a draft specification for LED luminaires to be used by IDOT : and a life-cycle cost analysis (LCCA) tool for solid state lighting technologies. The team also researched the : latest developments related to...

  11. Design, analysis, and test verification of advanced encapsulation systems

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Mardesich, N.; Minning, C.

    1982-01-01

    Design sensitivities are established for the development of photovoltaic module criteria and the definition of needed research tasks. The program consists of three phases. In Phase I, analytical models were developed to perform optical, thermal, electrical, and structural analyses on candidate encapsulation systems. From these analyses several candidate systems will be selected for qualification testing during Phase II. Additionally, during Phase II, test specimens of various types will be constructed and tested to determine the validity of the analysis methodology developed in Phase I. In Phse III, a finalized optimum design based on knowledge gained in Phase I and II will be developed. All verification testing was completed during this period. Preliminary results and observations are discussed. Descriptions of the thermal, thermal structural, and structural deflection test setups are included.

  12. Multi-Body Dynamic Contact Analysis. Tool for Transmission Design SBIR Phase II Final Report

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2003-04-01

    shapes and natural frequencies were computed in COSMIC NASTRAN, and were validated against the published experimental modal analysis [17]. • Using...COSMIC NASTRAN via modal superposition. • Results from the structural analysis (mode shapes or forced response) were converted into IDEAS universal...ARMY RESEARCH LABORATORY Multi-body Dynamic Contact Analysis Tool for Transmission Design SBIR Phase II Final Report by

  13. Labeled carbon dioxide (C18O2): an indicator gas for phase II in expirograms.

    PubMed

    Schulz, Holger; Schulz, Anne; Eder, Gunter; Heyder, Joachim

    2004-11-01

    Carbon dioxide labeled with 18O (C18O2) was used as a tracer gas for single-breath measurements in six anesthetized, mechanically ventilated beagle dogs. C18O2 is taken up quasi-instantaneously in the gas-exchanging region of the lungs but much less so in the conducting airways. Its use allows a clear separation of phase II in an expirogram even from diseased individuals and excludes the influence of alveolar concentration differences. Phase II of a C18O2 expirogram mathematically corresponds to the cumulative distribution of bronchial pathways to be traversed completely in the course of exhalation. The derivative of this cumulative distribution with respect to respired volume was submitted to a power moment analysis to characterize volumetric mean (position), standard deviation (broadness), and skewness (asymmetry) of phase II. Position is an estimate of dead space volume, whereas broadness and skewness are measures of the range and asymmetry of functional airway pathway lengths. The effects of changing ventilatory patterns and of changes in airway size (via carbachol-induced bronchoconstriction) were studied. Increasing inspiratory or expiratory flow rates or tidal volume had only minor influence on position and shape of phase II. With the introduction of a postinspiratory breath hold, phase II was continually shifted toward the airway opening (maximum 45% at 16 s) and became steeper by up to 16%, whereas skewness showed a biphasic response with a moderate decrease at short breath holding and a significant increase at longer breath holds. Stepwise bronchoconstriction decreased position up to 45 +/- 2% and broadness of phase II up to 43 +/- 4%, whereas skewness was increased up to twofold at high-carbachol concentrations. Under all circumstances, position of phase II by power moment analysis and dead space volume by the Fowler technique agreed closely in our healthy dogs. Overall, power moment analysis provides a more comprehensive view on phase II of single-breath expirograms than conventional dead space volume determinations and may be useful for respiratory physiology studies as well as for the study of diseased lungs.

  14. Beginning Teacher Evaluation Study: Phase II, 1973-74, Final Report: Volume III.2. Reading and Mathematics Observation System: Description and Analysis of Time Expenditures.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Calfee, Robert; Calfee, Kathryn Hoover

    The Beginning Teacher Evaluation Study (BTES), Phase II, was a research project on effective teaching behavior--what teachers do that significantly affects what and how pupils learn. The purposes of Phase II were to (1) develop an assessment system for measuring teacher and pupil behaviors and other factors which could influence each of them and…

  15. Carbon footprint estimator, phase II : volume II - technical appendices.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2014-03-01

    The GASCAP model was developed to provide a software tool for analysis of the life-cycle GHG : emissions associated with the construction and maintenance of transportation projects. This phase : of development included techniques for estimating emiss...

  16. Lyapunov exponents and phase diagrams reveal multi-factorial control over TRAIL-induced apoptosis

    PubMed Central

    Aldridge, Bree B; Gaudet, Suzanne; Lauffenburger, Douglas A; Sorger, Peter K

    2011-01-01

    Receptor-mediated apoptosis proceeds via two pathways: one requiring only a cascade of initiator and effector caspases (type I behavior) and the second requiring an initiator–effector caspase cascade and mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization (type II behavior). Here, we investigate factors controlling type I versus II phenotypes by performing Lyapunov exponent analysis of an ODE-based model of cell death. The resulting phase diagrams predict that the ratio of XIAP to pro-caspase-3 concentrations plays a key regulatory role: type I behavior predominates when the ratio is low and type II behavior when the ratio is high. Cell-to-cell variability in phenotype is observed when the ratio is close to the type I versus II boundary. By positioning multiple tumor cell lines on the phase diagram we confirm these predictions. We also extend phase space analysis to mutations affecting the rate of caspase-3 ubiquitylation by XIAP, predicting and showing that such mutations abolish all-or-none control over activation of effector caspases. Thus, phase diagrams derived from Lyapunov exponent analysis represent a means to study multi-factorial control over a complex biochemical pathway. PMID:22108795

  17. New York State Educational Information System (NYSEIS) Systems Design. Volume I, Phase II. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Price Waterhouse and Co., New York, NY.

    This volume on Phase II of the New York State Educational Information System (NYSEIS) describes the Gross Systems Analysis and Design, which includes the general flow diagram and processing chart for each of the student, personnel, and financial subsystems. Volume II, Functional Specifications, includes input/output requirements and file…

  18. Limited-scope probabilistic safety analysis for the Los Alamos Meson Physics Facility (LAMPF)

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Sharirli, M.; Rand, J.L.; Sasser, M.K.

    1992-01-01

    The reliability of instrumentation and safety systems is a major issue in the operation of accelerator facilities. A probabilistic safety analysis was performed or the key safety and instrumentation systems at the Los Alamos Meson Physics Facility (LAMPF). in Phase I of this unique study, the Personnel Safety System (PSS) and the Current Limiters (XLs) were analyzed through the use of the fault tree analyses, failure modes and effects analysis, and criticality analysis. Phase II of the program was done to update and reevaluate the safety systems after the Phase I recommendations were implemented. This paper provides a brief reviewmore » of the studies involved in Phases I and II of the program.« less

  19. Limited-scope probabilistic safety analysis for the Los Alamos Meson Physics Facility (LAMPF)

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Sharirli, M.; Rand, J.L.; Sasser, M.K.

    1992-12-01

    The reliability of instrumentation and safety systems is a major issue in the operation of accelerator facilities. A probabilistic safety analysis was performed or the key safety and instrumentation systems at the Los Alamos Meson Physics Facility (LAMPF). in Phase I of this unique study, the Personnel Safety System (PSS) and the Current Limiters (XLs) were analyzed through the use of the fault tree analyses, failure modes and effects analysis, and criticality analysis. Phase II of the program was done to update and reevaluate the safety systems after the Phase I recommendations were implemented. This paper provides a brief reviewmore » of the studies involved in Phases I and II of the program.« less

  20. Technology Demonstration of the Zero Emissions Chromium Electroplating System

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2008-02-01

    Phase I trivalent chromium results ................................................................... 23 18 Phase II total chromium in PRD fluid results...0 xa B D F H J L Sam pies Figure 16. Phase II iron results. ERDC/CERL TR-05-35, Vol. 1 23 Trivalent Chromium Phase I Analysis for Phase I was...with the samples. Each sample was analyzed twice, and an average was computed. Figure 17 shows the results. ANAD has specified that Trivalent Chromium

  1. A randomized phase II/III study of cabazitaxel versus vinflunine in metastatic or locally advanced transitional cell carcinoma of the urothelium (SECAVIN).

    PubMed

    Bellmunt, J; Kerst, J M; Vázquez, F; Morales-Barrera, R; Grande, E; Medina, A; González Graguera, M B; Rubio, G; Anido, U; Fernández Calvo, O; González-Billalabeitia, E; Van den Eertwegh, A J M; Pujol, E; Perez-Gracia, J L; González Larriba, J L; Collado, R; Los, M; Maciá, S; De Wit, R

    2017-07-01

    Despite the advent of immunotherapy in urothelial cancer, there is still a need to find effective cytotoxic agents beyond first and second lines. Vinflunine is the only treatment approved in this setting by the European Medicines Agency and taxanes are also widely used in second line. Cabazitaxel is a taxane with activity in docetaxel-refractory cancers. A randomized study was conducted to compare its efficacy versus vinflunine. This is a multicenter, randomized, open-label, phase II/III study, following a Simon's optimal method with stopping rules based on an interim futility analysis and a formal efficacy analysis at the end of the phase II. ECOG Performance Status, anaemia and liver metastases were stratification factors. Primary objectives were overall response rate for the phase II and overall survival for the phase III. Seventy patients were included in the phase II across 19 institutions in Europe. Baseline characteristics were well balanced between the two arms. Three patients (13%) obtained a partial response on cabazitaxel (95% CI 2.7-32.4) and six patients (30%) in the vinflunine arm (95% CI 11.9-54.3). Median progression-free survival for cabazitaxel was 1.9 versus 2.9 months for vinflunine (P = 0.039). The study did not proceed to phase III since the futility analysis showed a lack of efficacy of cabazitaxel. A trend for overall survival benefit was found favouring vinflunine (median 7.6 versus 5.5 months). Grade 3- to 4-related adverse events were seen in 41% patients with no difference between the two arms. This phase II/III second line bladder study comparing cabazitaxel with vinflunine was closed when the phase II showed a lack of efficacy of the cabazitaxel arm. Vinflunine results were consistent with those known previously. NCT01830231. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society for Medical Oncology. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  2. Statistical aspects of the TNK-S2B trial of tenecteplase versus alteplase in acute ischemic stroke: an efficient, dose-adaptive, seamless phase II/III design.

    PubMed

    Levin, Bruce; Thompson, John L P; Chakraborty, Bibhas; Levy, Gilberto; MacArthur, Robert; Haley, E Clarke

    2011-08-01

    TNK-S2B, an innovative, randomized, seamless phase II/III trial of tenecteplase versus rt-PA for acute ischemic stroke, terminated for slow enrollment before regulatory approval of use of phase II patients in phase III. (1) To review the trial design and comprehensive type I error rate simulations and (2) to discuss issues raised during regulatory review, to facilitate future approval of similar designs. In phase II, an early (24-h) outcome and adaptive sequential procedure selected one of three tenecteplase doses for phase III comparison with rt-PA. Decision rules comparing this dose to rt-PA would cause stopping for futility at phase II end, or continuation to phase III. Phase III incorporated two co-primary hypotheses, allowing for a treatment effect at either end of the trichotomized Rankin scale. Assuming no early termination, four interim analyses and one final analysis of 1908 patients provided an experiment-wise type I error rate of <0.05. Over 1,000 distribution scenarios, each involving 40,000 replications, the maximum type I error in phase III was 0.038. Inflation from the dose selection was more than offset by the one-half continuity correction in the test statistics. Inflation from repeated interim analyses was more than offset by the reduction from the clinical stopping rules for futility at the first interim analysis. Design complexity and evolving regulatory requirements lengthened the review process. (1) The design was innovative and efficient. Per protocol, type I error was well controlled for the co-primary phase III hypothesis tests, and experiment-wise. (2a) Time must be allowed for communications with regulatory reviewers from first design stages. (2b) Adequate type I error control must be demonstrated. (2c) Greater clarity is needed on (i) whether this includes demonstration of type I error control if the protocol is violated and (ii) whether simulations of type I error control are acceptable. (2d) Regulatory agency concerns that protocols for futility stopping may not be followed may be allayed by submitting interim analysis results to them as these analyses occur.

  3. Investigation of Rotor Performance and Loads of a UH-60A Individual Blade Control System

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Yeo, Hyeonsoo; Romander, Ethan A.; Norman, Thomas R.

    2011-01-01

    Wind tunnel measurements of performance, loads, and vibration of a full-scale UH-60A Black Hawk main rotor with an individual blade control (IBC) system are compared with calculations obtained using the comprehensive helicopter analysis CAMRAD II and a coupled CAMRAD II/OVERFLOW 2 analysis. Measured data show a 5.1% rotor power reduction (8.6% rotor lift to effective-drag ratio increase) using 2/rev IBC actuation with 2.0 amplitude at = 0.4. At the optimum IBC phase for rotor performance, IBC actuator force (pitch link force) decreased, and neither flap nor chord bending moments changed significantly. CAMRAD II predicts the rotor power variations with the IBC phase reasonably well at = 0.35. However, the correlation degrades at = 0.4. Coupled CAMRAD II/OVERFLOW 2 shows excellent correlation with the measured rotor power variations with the IBC phase at both = 0.35 and = 0.4. Maximum reduction of IBC actuator force is better predicted with CAMRAD II, but general trends are better captured with the coupled analysis. The correlation of vibratory hub loads is generally poor by both methods, although the coupled analysis somewhat captures general trends.

  4. Investigation of Rotor Performance and Loads of a UH-60A Individual Blade Control System

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Yeo, Hyeonsoo; Romander, Ethan A.; Norman, Thomas R.

    2011-01-01

    Wind tunnel measurements of performance, loads, and vibration of a full-scale UH-60A Black Hawk main rotor with an individual blade control (IBC) system are compared with calculations obtained using the comprehensive helicopter analysis CAMRAD II and a coupled CAMRAD II/OVERFLOW 2 analysis. Measured data show a 5.1% rotor power reduction (8.6% rotor lift to effective-drag ratio increase) using 2/rev IBC actuation with 2.0. amplitude at u = 0.4. At the optimum IBC phase for rotor performance, IBC actuator force (pitch link force) decreased, and neither flap nor chord bending moments changed significantly. CAMRAD II predicts the rotor power variations with IBC phase reasonably well at u = 0.35. However, the correlation degrades at u = 0.4. Coupled CAMRAD II/OVERFLOW 2 shows excellent correlation with the measured rotor power variations with IBC phase at both u = 0.35 and u = 0.4. Maximum reduction of IBC actuator force is better predicted with CAMRAD II, but general trends are better captured with the coupled analysis. The correlation of vibratory hub loads is generally poor by both methods, although the coupled analysis somewhat captures general trends.

  5. Implementation of a Proficiency-Based Diploma System in Maine: Phase II--District Level Analysis

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Silvernail, David L.; Stump, Erika K.; McCafferty, Anita Stewart; Hawes, Kathryn M.

    2014-01-01

    This report describes the findings from Phase II of a study of Maine's implementation of a proficiency-based diploma system. At the request of the Joint Standing Committee on Education and Cultural Affairs of the Maine Legislature, the Maine Policy Research Institute (MEPRI) has conducted a two-phased study of the implementation of Maine law…

  6. Estimates of general combining ability in Hevea breeding at the Rubber Research Institute of Malaysia : I. Phases II and III A.

    PubMed

    Tan, H

    1977-01-01

    Estimates of general combining ability of parents for yield and girth obtained separately from seedlings and their corresponding clonal families in Phases II and IIIA of the RRIM breeding programme are compared. A highly significant positive correlation (r = 0.71***) is found between GCA estimates from seedling and clonal families for yield in Phase IIIA, but not in Phase II (r = -0.03(NS)) nor for girth (r= -0.27(NS)) in Phase IIIA. The correlations for Phase II yield and Phase IIIA girth, however, improve when the GCA estimates based on small sample size or reversed rankings are excluded.When the best selections (based on present clonal and seedling information) are compared, all five of the parents top-ranking for yield are common in Phase IIIA but only two parents are common for yield and girth in Phases II and IIIA respectively. However, only one parent for yield in Phase II and two parents for girth in Phase IIIA would, if selected on clonal performance, have been omitted from the top ranking selections made by previous workers using seedling information.These findings, therefore, justify the choice of parents based on GCA estimates for yield obtained from seedling performance. Similar justification cannot be offered for girth, for which analysis is confounded by uninterpretable site and seasonal effects.

  7. Development of Phased-Array Ultrasonic Testing Acceptability Criteria : (Phase II)

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2014-10-01

    The preliminary technical approach and scan plans developed during phase I of this research was implemented on testing four butt-weld specimens. The ray path analysis carried out to develop the scan plans and the preliminary data analysis indicated t...

  8. The use of dihexyldithiocarbamate in reverse-phase HPLC of metal chelates

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fatimah, S. S.; Bahti, H. H.; Hastiawan, I.; Permanasari, A.

    2018-05-01

    Dialkyldithiocarbamates have long been used as chelating agents in reverse-phase HPLC of transition metals. In the previous study, an alkyl homolog of this type of ligand, namely dihexyldithiocarbamate (DHDTC), was synthesized and characterized. The use of this particular ligand in the revese-phase HPLC of some selected transition metal ions is now reported for the first time. The mobile phase comprising of the flow rate and of the detection, in the separation of the metal chelates of Cd (II), Fe (III), Cu (II), and Co (III), were investigated on a C-18 column. The results showed that dihexylditiocarbamate could be used for separating Cd (II), Fe(III), Cu(II), and Co(III). Therefore, it could be used in simultaneous analysis.

  9. First results of GERDA Phase II and consistency with background models

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Agostini, M.; Allardt, M.; Bakalyarov, A. M.; Balata, M.; Barabanov, I.; Baudis, L.; Bauer, C.; Bellotti, E.; Belogurov, S.; Belyaev, S. T.; Benato, G.; Bettini, A.; Bezrukov, L.; Bode1, T.; Borowicz, D.; Brudanin, V.; Brugnera, R.; Caldwell, A.; Cattadori, C.; Chernogorov, A.; D'Andrea, V.; Demidova, E. V.; Di Marco, N.; Domula, A.; Doroshkevich, E.; Egorov, V.; Falkenstein, R.; Frodyma, N.; Gangapshev, A.; Garfagnini, A.; Gooch, C.; Grabmayr, P.; Gurentsov, V.; Gusev, K.; Hakenmüller, J.; Hegai, A.; Heisel, M.; Hemmer, S.; Hofmann, W.; Hult, M.; Inzhechik, L. V.; Janicskó Csáthy, J.; Jochum, J.; Junker, M.; Kazalov, V.; Kihm, T.; Kirpichnikov, I. V.; Kirsch, A.; Kish, A.; Klimenko, A.; Kneißl, R.; Knöpfle, K. T.; Kochetov, O.; Kornoukhov, V. N.; Kuzminov, V. V.; Laubenstein, M.; Lazzaro, A.; Lebedev, V. I.; Lehnert, B.; Liao, H. Y.; Lindner, M.; Lippi, I.; Lubashevskiy, A.; Lubsandorzhiev, B.; Lutter, G.; Macolino, C.; Majorovits, B.; Maneschg, W.; Medinaceli, E.; Miloradovic, M.; Mingazheva, R.; Misiaszek, M.; Moseev, P.; Nemchenok, I.; Palioselitis, D.; Panas, K.; Pandola, L.; Pelczar, K.; Pullia, A.; Riboldi, S.; Rumyantseva, N.; Sada, C.; Salamida, F.; Salathe, M.; Schmitt, C.; Schneider, B.; Schönert, S.; Schreiner, J.; Schulz, O.; Schütz, A.-K.; Schwingenheuer, B.; Selivanenko, O.; Shevzik, E.; Shirchenko, M.; Simgen, H.; Smolnikov, A.; Stanco, L.; Vanhoefer, L.; Vasenko, A. A.; Veresnikova, A.; von Sturm, K.; Wagner, V.; Wegmann, A.; Wester, T.; Wiesinger, C.; Wojcik, M.; Yanovich, E.; Zhitnikov, I.; Zhukov, S. V.; Zinatulina, D.; Zuber, K.; Zuzel, G.

    2017-01-01

    The GERDA (GERmanium Detector Array) is an experiment for the search of neutrinoless double beta decay (0νββ) in 76Ge, located at Laboratori Nazionali del Gran Sasso of INFN (Italy). GERDA operates bare high purity germanium detectors submersed in liquid Argon (LAr). Phase II of data-taking started in Dec 2015 and is currently ongoing. In Phase II 35 kg of germanium detectors enriched in 76Ge including thirty newly produced Broad Energy Germanium (BEGe) detectors is operating to reach an exposure of 100 kg·yr within about 3 years data taking. The design goal of Phase II is to reduce the background by one order of magnitude to get the sensitivity for T1/20ν = O≤ft( {{{10}26}} \\right){{ yr}}. To achieve the necessary background reduction, the setup was complemented with LAr veto. Analysis of the background spectrum of Phase II demonstrates consistency with the background models. Furthermore 226Ra and 232Th contamination levels consistent with screening results. In the first Phase II data release we found no hint for a 0νββ decay signal and place a limit of this process T1/20ν > 5.3 \\cdot {1025} yr (90% C.L., sensitivity 4.0·1025 yr). First results of GERDA Phase II will be presented.

  10. Stability hierarchy between Piracetam forms I, II, and III from experimental pressure-temperature diagrams and topological inferences.

    PubMed

    Toscani, Siro; Céolin, René; Minassian, Léon Ter; Barrio, Maria; Veglio, Nestor; Tamarit, Josep-Lluis; Louër, Daniel; Rietveld, Ivo B

    2016-01-30

    The trimorphism of the active pharmaceutical ingredient piracetam is a famous case of polymorphism that has been frequently revisited by many researchers. The phase relationships between forms I, II, and III were ambiguous because they seemed to depend on the heating rate of the DSC and on the history of the samples or they have not been observed at all (equilibrium II-III). In the present paper, piezo-thermal analysis and high-pressure differential thermal analysis have been used to elucidate the positions of the different solid-solid and solid-liquid equilibria. The phase diagram, involving the three solid phases, the liquid phase and the vapor phase, has been constructed. It has been shown that form III is the high-pressure, low-temperature form and the stable form at room temperature. Form II is stable under intermediary conditions and form I is the low pressure, high temperature form, which possesses a stable melting point. The present paper demonstrates the strength of the topological approach based on the Clapeyron equation and the alternation rule when combined with high-pressure measurements. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  11. Lead(ii) soaps: crystal structures, polymorphism, and solid and liquid mesophases.

    PubMed

    Martínez-Casado, F J; Ramos-Riesco, M; Rodríguez-Cheda, J A; Redondo-Yélamos, M I; Garrido, L; Fernández-Martínez, A; García-Barriocanal, J; da Silva, I; Durán-Olivencia, M; Poulain, A

    2017-07-05

    The long-chain members of the lead(ii) alkanoate series or soaps, from octanoate to octadecanoate, have been thoroughly characterized by means of XRD, PDF analysis, DSC, FTIR, ssNMR and other techniques, in all their phases and mesophases. The crystal structures at room temperature of all of the members of the series are now solved, showing the existence of two polymorphic forms in the room temperature crystal phase, different to short and long-chain members. Only nonanoate and decanoate present both forms, and this polymorphism is proven to be monotropic. At higher temperature, these compounds present a solid mesophase, defined as rotator, a liquid crystal phase and a liquid phase, all of which have a similar local arrangement. Since some lead(ii) soaps appear as degradation compounds in oil paintings, the solved crystal structures of lead(ii) soaps can now be used as fingerprints for their detection using X-ray diffraction. Pair distribution function analysis on these compounds is very similar in the same phases and mesophases for the different members, showing the same short range order. This observation suggests that this technique could also be used in the detection of these compounds in disordered phases or in the initial stages of formation in paintings.

  12. Evaluation of the quality of the reporting of phase II clinical trials in oncology: A systematic review.

    PubMed

    Rivoirard, Romain; Langrand-Escure, Julien; Oriol, Mathieu; Tinquaut, Fabien; Chauvin, Franck; Rancoule, Chloé; Magné, Nicolas; Bourmaud, Aurélie

    2018-05-01

    To describe the current state of knowledge concerning the quality of reporting in phase II clinical trials in oncology and to describe the various methods published allowing this quality evaluation. databases including MEDLINE and COCHRANE were searched. Reviews and meta-analyses analyzing the quality of the reporting of phase II trials in oncology were included. Descriptive analysis of the results was performed. Thirteen publications were retained. Only 2 publications adopted a systematic approach of evaluation of the quality of reporting by overall scores. The Key Methodological Score (KMS), proposed by Grellety et al., gathering 3 items, seemed adapted for such an evaluation. A score of 3/3 was found in 16.1% of the 156 phase II trials analysed by this score. The other reviews used a qualitative analysis to evaluate the reporting, via an analysis of a single criterion, generally the statistical plan of the study. This item was considered as having been correctly reported in less than 50% of the analysed articles. The quality of reporting in phase II trials in oncology is a field that has been investigated very little (13 publications). When it is studied, the estimated level of quality is not satisfactory, whatever the method employed. The use of an overall score of evaluation is a path which should be pursued, in order to get reliable results. It also seems necessary to propose strong recommendations, which would create a consensus for the methodology and the reporting of these studies. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  13. Analysis of Coaching Science Research Published from 1970-2001

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Gilbert, Wade D.; Trudel, Pierre

    2004-01-01

    The study followed a four-phase design. In Phase I an exhaustive search was conducted for all English language coaching research published in journals from 1970 to 2001. In Phase II, copies of the research were obtained. An expert panel conducted a manual search and a review in Phase III to address validity. Analysis of the research was completed…

  14. Benefits and Sustainability of a Learning Collaborative for Implementation of Treat to Target in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Results of the TRACTION Trial Phase II.

    PubMed

    Solomon, Daniel H; Lu, Bing; Yu, Zhi; Corrigan, Cassandra; Harrold, Leslie R; Smolen, Josef S; Fraenkel, Liana; Katz, Jeffrey N; Losina, Elena

    2018-01-05

    We conducted a two-phase randomized controlled trial of a Learning Collaborative (LC) to facilitate implementation of treat to target (TTT) to manage rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We found substantial improvement in implementation of TTT in Phase I. Herein, we report on a second 9 months (Phase II) where we examined maintenance of response in Phase I and predictors of greater improvement in TTT adherence. We recruited 11 rheumatology sites and randomized them to either receive the LC during Phase I or to a wait-list control group that received the LC intervention during Phase II. The outcome was change in TTT implementation score (0 to 100, 100 is best) from pre- to post-intervention. TTT implementation score is defined as a percent of components documented in visit notes. Analyses examined: 1) the extent that the Phase I intervention teams sustained improvement in TTT; and, 2) predictors of TTT improvement. The analysis included 636 RA patients. At baseline, mean TTT implementation score was 11% in Phase I intervention sites and 13% in Phase II sites. After the intervention, TTT implementation score improved to 57% in the Phase I intervention sites and to 58% in the Phase II sites. Intervention sites from Phase I sustained the improvement during the Phase II (52%). Predictors of greater TTT improvement included only having rheumatologist providers at the site, academic affiliation of the site, fewer providers per site, and the rheumatologist provider being a trainee. Improvement in TTT remained relatively stable over a post-intervention period. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

  15. Cellulose-lanthanum hydroxide nanocomposite as a selective marker for detection of toxic copper

    PubMed Central

    2014-01-01

    In this current report, a simple, reliable, and rapid method based on modifying the cellulose surface by doping it with different percentages of lanthanum hydroxide (i.e., 1% La(OH)3-cellulose (LC), 5% La(OH)3-cellulose (LC2), and 10% La(OH)3-cellulose (LC3)) was proposed as a selective marker for detection of copper (Cu(II)) in aqueous medium. Surface properties of the newly modified cellulose phases were confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscope, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic analysis. The effect of pH on the adsorption of modified cellulose phases for Cu(II) was evaluated, and LC3 was found to be the most selective for Cu(II) at pH 6.0. Other parameters, influencing the maximum uptake of Cu(II) on LC3, were also investigated for a deeper mechanistic understanding of the adsorption phenomena. Results showed that the adsorption capacity for Cu(II) was improved by 211% on the LC3 phase as compared to diethylaminoethyl cellulose phase after only 2 h contact time. Adsorption isotherm data established that the adsorption process nature was monolayer with a homogeneous adsorbent surface. Results displayed that the adsorption of Cu(II) onto the LC3 phase obeyed a pseudo-second-order kinetic model. Selectivity studies toward eight metal ions, i.e., Cd(II), Co(II), Cr(III), Cr(VI), Cu(II), Fe(III), Ni(II), and Zn(II), were further performed at the optimized pH value. Based on the selectivity study, it was found that Cu(II) is highly selective toward the LC3 phase. Moreover, the efficiency of the proposed method was supported by implementing it to real environmental water samples with adequate results. PMID:25258599

  16. Mammalian Toxicity of Munition Compounds. Phase II. Effects of Multiple Doses. Part III. 2,6-Dinitrotoluene

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1976-07-01

    Histopathology , Statistical Analysis, and Normal Values ..... ...... ........... 131 I Ii A.mmALIAN TOXICITY OF MUNITION COMPOUNDS PHASE II: Effects of...chemistry tests and histopathology , and the normal values are given in Appendix I. The concentrations of Ca 2+, Mg2 +, Na+ and K+ in serum were determined...mice fed 2,6-DNT included focal epicarditis or myocarditis, focal cystitis, chronic murine pneumonia or bronchopneumonia, metritis and focal myositis

  17. Phenotypic variation of Pseudomonas brassicacearum as a plant root-colonization strategy.

    PubMed

    Achouak, Wafa; Conrod, Sandrine; Cohen, Valérie; Heulin, Thierry

    2004-08-01

    Pseudomonas brassicacearum was isolated as a major root-colonizing population from Arabidopsis thaliana. The strain NFM421 of P. brassicacearum undergoes phenotypic variation during A. thaliana and Brassica napus root colonization in vitro as well as in soil, resulting in different colony appearance on agar surfaces. Bacteria forming translucent colonies (phase II cells) essentially were localized at the surface of young roots and root tips, whereas wild-type cells (phase I cells) were localized at the basal part of roots. The ability of phase II cells to spread and colonize new sites on root surface correlates with over-production of flagellin as evidenced by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analysis of surface proteins and microsequencing. Moreover, phase II cells showed a higher ability to swim and to swarm on semisolid agar medium. Phase I and phase II cells of P. brassicacearum NFM421 were tagged genetically with green fluorescent protein and red fluorescent protein. Confocal scanning laser microscopy was used to localize phase II cells on secondary roots and root tips of A. thaliana, whereas phase I cells essentially were localized at the basal part of roots. These experiments were conducted in vitro and in soil. Phenotypic variation on plant roots is likely to be a colonization strategy that may explain the high colonization power of P. brassicacearum.

  18. Simultaneous determination of bifonazole and tinctures of calendula flower in pharmaceutical creams by reversed-phase liquid chromatography.

    PubMed

    Ferreyra, Carola F; Ortiz, Cristina S

    2005-01-01

    The aim of this research was to develop and validate a sensitive, rapid, easy, and precise reversed-phase liquid chromatography (LC) method for stability studies of bifonazole (I) formulated with tinctures of calendula flower (II). The method was especially developed for the analysis and quantitative determination of I and II in pure and combined forms in cream pharmaceutical formulations without using gradient elution and at room temperature. The influence on the stability of compound I of temperature, artificial radiation, and drug II used for the new pharmaceutical design was evaluated. The LC separation was carried out using a Supelcosil LC-18 column (25 cm x 4.6 mm id, 5 microm particle size); the mobile phase was composed of methanol-0.1 M ammonium acetate buffer (85 + 15, v/v) pumped isocratically at a flow rate of 1 mL/min; and ultraviolet detection was at 254 nm. The analysis time was less than 10 min. Calibration graphs were found to be linear in the 0.125-0.375 mg/mL (rI = 0.9991) and 0.639-1.916 mg/mL (rII = 0.9995) ranges for I and II, respectively. The linearity, precision, recovery, and limits of detection and quantification were satisfactory for I and II. The results obtained suggested that the developed LC method is selective and specific for the analysis of I and II in pharmaceutical products, and that it can be applied to stability studies.

  19. Phase II cancer clinical trials for biomarker-guided treatments.

    PubMed

    Jung, Sin-Ho

    2018-01-01

    The design and analysis of cancer clinical trials with biomarker depend on various factors, such as the phase of trials, the type of biomarker, whether the used biomarker is validated or not, and the study objectives. In this article, we demonstrate the design and analysis of two Phase II cancer clinical trials, one with a predictive biomarker and the other with an imaging prognostic biomarker. Statistical testing methods and their sample size calculation methods are presented for each trial. We assume that the primary endpoint of these trials is a time to event variable, but this concept can be used for any type of endpoint.

  20. Piper betle Induced Cytoprotective Genes and Proteins via the Nrf2/ARE Pathway in Aging Mice.

    PubMed

    Aliahmat, Nor Syahida; Abdul Sani, Nur Fathiah; Wan Hasan, Wan Nuraini; Makpol, Suzana; Wan Ngah, Wan Zurinah; Mohd Yusof, Yasmin Anum

    2016-01-01

    The objective of this study was to elucidate the underlying antioxidant mechanism of aqueous extract of Piper betle (PB) in aging rats. The nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/ARE pathway involving phase II detoxifying and antioxidant enzymes plays an important role in the antioxidant system by reducing electrophiles and reactive oxygen species through induction of phase II enzymes and proteins. Genes and proteins of phase II detoxifying antioxidant enzymes were analyzed by QuantiGenePlex 2.0 Assay and Western blot analysis. PB significantly induced genes and proteins of phase II and antioxidant enzymes, NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1, and catalase in aging mice (p < 0.05). The expression of these enzymes were stimulated via translocation of Nrf2 into the nucleus, indicating the involvement of ARE, a cis-acting motif located in the promoter region of nearly all phase II genes. PB was testified for the first time to induce cytoprotective genes through the Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway, thus unraveling the antioxidant mechanism of PB during the aging process. © 2016 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  1. Unbiased estimation in seamless phase II/III trials with unequal treatment effect variances and hypothesis-driven selection rules.

    PubMed

    Robertson, David S; Prevost, A Toby; Bowden, Jack

    2016-09-30

    Seamless phase II/III clinical trials offer an efficient way to select an experimental treatment and perform confirmatory analysis within a single trial. However, combining the data from both stages in the final analysis can induce bias into the estimates of treatment effects. Methods for bias adjustment developed thus far have made restrictive assumptions about the design and selection rules followed. In order to address these shortcomings, we apply recent methodological advances to derive the uniformly minimum variance conditionally unbiased estimator for two-stage seamless phase II/III trials. Our framework allows for the precision of the treatment arm estimates to take arbitrary values, can be utilised for all treatments that are taken forward to phase III and is applicable when the decision to select or drop treatment arms is driven by a multiplicity-adjusted hypothesis testing procedure. © 2016 The Authors. Statistics in Medicine Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd. © 2016 The Authors. Statistics in Medicine Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  2. A two-stage patient enrichment adaptive design in phase II oncology trials.

    PubMed

    Song, James X

    2014-01-01

    Illustrated is the use of a patient enrichment adaptive design in a randomized phase II trial which allows the evaluation of treatment benefits by the biomarker expression level and makes interim adjustment according to the pre-specified rules. The design was applied to an actual phase II metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) trial in which progression-free survival (PFS) in two biomarker-defined populations is evaluated at both interim and final analyses. As an extension, a short-term biomarker is used to predict the long-term PFS in a Bayesian model in order to improve the precision of hazard ratio (HR) estimate at the interim analysis. The characteristics of the extended design are examined in a number of scenarios via simulations. The recommended adaptive design is shown to be useful in a phase II setting. When a short-term maker which correlates with the long-term PFS is available, the design can be applied in smaller early phase trials in which PFS requires longer follow-up. In summary, the adaptive design offers flexibility in randomized phase II patient enrichment trials and should be considered in an overall personalized healthcare (PHC) strategy. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  3. Use of the CSA to Calculate Phase Diagrams and Coherent Inter-Phase Boundary Energies of Multi-Component Nickel-Based Alloys

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2009-03-02

    desirable performance such as their mechanical properties and oxidation-resistance. In this report, we obtain a thermodynamic description of Ni-AI...quaternary system for nickel-based superalloys since the addition of Re improves the mechanical properties of Ni-based superalloys [93Qui], (ii) extensive...well as in solidified samples. 7. Mechanical property Analysis A Micromet II and Macromet II units from Buehler Co. are capable of micro-hardness

  4. Development of a Low Cost Molded Plastic Missile/RPV Control Surface Actuator

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1975-10-01

    Glass Fiber 3 2.1.2.2 Nylon/30% Glaso Fiber 7 2.2 Phase I Testing Of Polyimide/Glass 8 j/ Burst Testsl 11tig 2.2.2atgu TechShatset S.2. Phse Cliner oldng...Dimensional and Hard- 23 a >~ ness Change Results19 2.2.4.2.3 Weight Changes 23 2.2.5 Phase II Environmental Testing 27 II I -ii TALIO ONET TABLE OF...CONTENTS (CONT’D) SECTION PAGE 2.3 Phase I Analysis and Design 27 2.3.1 Sizing and Optimizing AR 27 2.3.2 Valve Sizing 36 2.3.3 Pistons Side Load and Rocker

  5. Probability of success for phase III after exploratory biomarker analysis in phase II.

    PubMed

    Götte, Heiko; Kirchner, Marietta; Sailer, Martin Oliver

    2017-05-01

    The probability of success or average power describes the potential of a future trial by weighting the power with a probability distribution of the treatment effect. The treatment effect estimate from a previous trial can be used to define such a distribution. During the development of targeted therapies, it is common practice to look for predictive biomarkers. The consequence is that the trial population for phase III is often selected on the basis of the most extreme result from phase II biomarker subgroup analyses. In such a case, there is a tendency to overestimate the treatment effect. We investigate whether the overestimation of the treatment effect estimate from phase II is transformed into a positive bias for the probability of success for phase III. We simulate a phase II/III development program for targeted therapies. This simulation allows to investigate selection probabilities and allows to compare the estimated with the true probability of success. We consider the estimated probability of success with and without subgroup selection. Depending on the true treatment effects, there is a negative bias without selection because of the weighting by the phase II distribution. In comparison, selection increases the estimated probability of success. Thus, selection does not lead to a bias in probability of success if underestimation due to the phase II distribution and overestimation due to selection cancel each other out. We recommend to perform similar simulations in practice to get the necessary information about the risk and chances associated with such subgroup selection designs. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  6. Combination of sawdust from teak wood and rice husk activated carbon as adsorbent of Pb(II) ion and its analysis using solid-phase spectrophotometry (sps)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Saputro, S.; Mahardiani, L.; Wulandari, D. A.

    2018-03-01

    This research aimed to know the usage of sawdust of teak wood and rice husk waste as Pb (II) ion adsorbents in simulated liquid waste, the combined optimum mass required adsorbent to adsorb Pb(II) ion, the sensitivity of the solid-phase spectrophotometry (sps) method in determining the decrease of Pb (II) metal ion levels in the μg/L level. This research was conducted by experimental method in laboratory. Adsorbents used in this study were charcoal of sawdust sawdust activated using 15% ZnCl2 solution and activated rice husk using 2 N NaOH solution. The adsorption processes of sawdust and rice husk with Pb(II) solution was done by variation of mass combination with a ratio of 1: 0; 0: 1; 1: 1; 1: 2; and 2: 1. Analysis of Pb(II) ion concentration using SPS and characterization of sawdust and rice husk adsorbent ads using FTIR. The results showed that activated charcoal from sawdust of teak wood and rice husks can be used as Pb (II) metal ion adsorbents with adsorption capacity of 0.86 μg/L, charcoal from sawdust of teak wood and rice husk adsorbent with a combination of optimum mass contact of sawdust and rice husk is 2:1 as much as 3 grams can adsorb 42.80 μg/L. Solid-phase spectophotometry is a sensitive method for analysis of concentration decreasing levels of Pb(II) ion, after it was absorbed by sawdust of teak wood and rice husk with high sensitivity and has the limit of detection (LOD) of 0.06 μg/L.

  7. Analysis of Commercial Contract Training for the Navy (Phase II) [And] Commercial Contract Training Navy Area VOTEC Support Center (AVSC) Guidelines. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Copeland, D. Robert; And Others

    The two-part report describing the Phase 2 findings of a two-phase study demonstrates the utility of the commercial contract training concept for satisfying certain Navy skill training requirements. Part 1 concerns source evaluation, skill analysis and selection, contractual considerations, and comparative training capability evaluation. It…

  8. Metabolomic Analysis of the Secretome of Human Embryonic Stem Cells Following Methyl Parathion and Methyl Paraoxon Exposure Phase 2: Metabolite Downselection for Structural Confirmation

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2013-12-01

    degradation 2 Pipecolic acid II 2-keto-6- aminocaproate II Pyruvate metabolism 1 Malic acid I Purine metabolism 1 Guanine I Propanoate metabolism 1...acetamidobutanoic acid II cis-4-hydroxy-D-proline II D-arginine and D-ornithine metabolism 4 Ornithine II 5-amino-2-oxopentanoic acid II 2-amino-4-oxo...pentanoic acid II (2R,4S)-2,4-diaminopentanoate II Gly, Ser, and Thr metabolism 3 L-cystathionine II Choline II 5-aminolevulinic acid II Val

  9. Milk thistle and indinavir: a randomized controlled pharmacokinetics study and meta-analysis.

    PubMed

    Mills, Edward; Wilson, Kumanan; Clarke, Mike; Foster, Brian; Walker, Scott; Rachlis, Beth; DeGroot, Nick; Montori, Victor M; Gold, Wayne; Phillips, Elizabeth; Myers, Stephen; Gallicano, Keith

    2005-03-01

    To determine whether ingestion of milk thistle affects the pharmacokinetics of indinavir. We conducted a three-period, randomized controlled trial with 16 healthy participants. We randomized participants to milk thistle or control. All participants received initial dosing of indinavir, and baseline indinavir levels were obtained (AUC(0-8)) (phase I). The active group were then given 450 mg milk-thistle extract capsules to be taken t.i.d. from day 2 to day 30. The control group received no plant extract. On day 29 and day 30, indinavir dosing and sampling was repeated in both groups as before (phase II). After a wash-out period of 7 days, indinavir dosing and sampling were repeated as before (phase III). All participants completed the trial, but two were excluded from analysis due to protocol violation. There were no significant between-group differences. Active group mean AUC(0-8) indinavir decreased by 4.4% (90% CI, -27.5% to -26%, P=0.78) from phase I to phase II in the active group, and by 17.3% (90% CI, -37.3% to +9%, P=0.25) in phase III. Control group mean AUC(0-8) decreased by 21.5% (90% CI, -43% to +8%, P=0.2) from phase I to phase II and by 38.5% (90% CI, -55.3% to -15.3%, P=0.01) of baseline at phase III. To place our findings in context, milk thistle-indinavir trials were identified through systematic searches of the literature. A meta-analysis of three milk thistle-indinavir trials revealed a non-significant pooled mean difference of 1% in AUC(0-8) (95% CI, -53% to 55%, P=0.97). Indinavir levels were not reduced significantly in the presence of milk thistle.

  10. Epigenetic Therapy Using Belinostat for Patients With Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Multicenter Phase I/II Study With Biomarker and Pharmacokinetic Analysis of Tumors From Patients in the Mayo Phase II Consortium and the Cancer Therapeutics Research Group

    PubMed Central

    Yeo, Winnie; Chung, Hyun C.; Chan, Stephen L.; Wang, Ling Z.; Lim, Robert; Picus, Joel; Boyer, Michael; Mo, Frankie K.F.; Koh, Jane; Rha, Sun Y.; Hui, Edwin P.; Jeung, Hei C.; Roh, Jae K.; Yu, Simon C.H.; To, Ka F.; Tao, Qian; Ma, Brigette B.; Chan, Anthony W.H.; Tong, Joanna H.M.; Erlichman, Charles; Chan, Anthony T.C.; Goh, Boon C.

    2012-01-01

    Purpose Epigenetic aberrations have been reported in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this study of patients with unresectable HCC and chronic liver disease, epigenetic therapy with the histone deacetylase inhibitor belinostat was assessed. The objectives were to determine dose-limiting toxicity and maximum-tolerated dose (MTD), to assess pharmacokinetics in phase I, and to assess activity of and explore potential biomarkers for response in phase II. Patients and Methods Major eligibility criteria included histologically confirmed unresectable HCC, European Cooperative Oncology Group performance score ≤ 2, and adequate organ function. Phase I consisted of 18 patients; belinostat was given intravenously once per day on days 1 to 5 every 3 weeks; dose levels were 600 mg/m2 per day (level 1), 900 mg/m2 per day (level 2), 1,200 mg/m2 per day (level 3), and 1,400 mg/m2 per day (level 4). Phase II consisted of 42 patients. The primary end point was progression-free survival (PFS), and the main secondary end points were response according to Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) and overall survival (OS). Exploratory analysis was conducted on pretreatment tumor tissues to determine whether HR23B expression is a potential biomarker for response. Results Belinostat pharmacokinetics were linear from 600 to 1,400 mg/m2 without significant accumulation. The MTD was not reached at the maximum dose administered. Dose level 4 was used in phase II. The median number of cycles was two (range, one to 12). The partial response (PR) and stable disease (SD) rates were 2.4% and 45.2%, respectively. The median PFS and OS were 2.64 and 6.60 months, respectively. Exploratory analysis revealed that disease stabilization rate (complete response plus PR plus SD) in tumors having high and low HR23B histoscores were 58% and 14%, respectively (P = .036). Conclusion Epigenetic therapy with belinostat demonstrates tumor stabilization and is generally well-tolerated. HR23B expression was associated with disease stabilization. PMID:22915658

  11. ROC analysis of the accuracy of Noncycloplegic retinoscopy, Retinomax Autorefractor, and SureSight Vision Screener for preschool vision screening.

    PubMed

    Ying, Gui-shuang; Maguire, Maureen; Quinn, Graham; Kulp, Marjean Taylor; Cyert, Lynn

    2011-12-28

    To evaluate, by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, the accuracy of three instruments of refractive error in detecting eye conditions among 3- to 5-year-old Head Start preschoolers and to evaluate differences in accuracy between instruments and screeners and by age of the child. Children participating in the Vision In Preschoolers (VIP) Study (n = 4040), had screening tests administered by pediatric eye care providers (phase I) or by both nurse and lay screeners (phase II). Noncycloplegic retinoscopy (NCR), the Retinomax Autorefractor (Nikon, Tokyo, Japan), and the SureSight Vision Screener (SureSight, Alpharetta, GA) were used in phase I, and Retinomax and SureSight were used in phase II. Pediatric eye care providers performed a standardized eye examination to identify amblyopia, strabismus, significant refractive error, and reduced visual acuity. The accuracy of the screening tests was summarized by the area under the ROC curve (AUC) and compared between instruments and screeners and by age group. The three screening tests had a high AUC for all categories of screening personnel. The AUC for detecting any VIP-targeted condition was 0.83 for NCR, 0.83 (phase I) to 0.88 (phase II) for Retinomax, and 0.86 (phase I) to 0.87 (phase II) for SureSight. The AUC was 0.93 to 0.95 for detecting group 1 (most severe) conditions and did not differ between instruments or screeners or by age of the child. NCR, Retinomax, and SureSight had similar and high accuracy in detecting vision disorders in preschoolers across all types of screeners and age of child, consistent with previously reported results at specificity levels of 90% and 94%.

  12. Analysis of Commercial Contract Training for the Marine Corps (Phase II) [And] Commercial Contract Training Marine Corps Area VOTEC Support Center (AVSC) Guidelines. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Copeland, D. Robert; And Others

    The two-part report describing the Phase 2 findings of a two-phase study demonstrates the utility of the commercial contract training concept for satisfying certain Marine Corps skill training requirements. Part 1 concerns source evaluation, skill analysis and selection, contractual considerations, and comparative training capability evaluation.…

  13. Preliminary SPE Phase II Far Field Ground Motion Estimates

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Steedman, David W.

    2014-03-06

    Phase II of the Source Physics Experiment (SPE) program will be conducted in alluvium. Several candidate sites were identified. These include existing large diameter borehole U1e. One criterion for acceptance is expected far field ground motion. In June 2013 we were requested to estimate peak response 2 km from the borehole due to the largest planned SPE Phase II experiment: a contained 50- Ton event. The cube-root scaled range for this event is 5423 m/KT 1/3. The generally accepted first order estimate of ground motions from an explosive event is to refer to the standard data base for explosive eventsmore » (Perrett and Bass, 1975). This reference is a compilation and analysis of ground motion data from numerous nuclear and chemical explosive events from Nevada National Security Site (formerly the Nevada Test Site, or NTS) and other locations. The data were compiled and analyzed for various geologic settings including dry alluvium, which we believe is an accurate descriptor for the SPE Phase II setting. The Perrett and Bass plots of peak velocity and peak yield-scaled displacement, both vs. yield-scaled range, are provided here. Their analysis of both variables resulted in bi-linear fits: a close-in non-linear regime and a more distant linear regime.« less

  14. Effect of substituents on prediction of TLC retention of tetra-dentate Schiff bases and their Copper(II) and Nickel(II) complexes.

    PubMed

    Stevanović, Nikola R; Perušković, Danica S; Gašić, Uroš M; Antunović, Vesna R; Lolić, Aleksandar Đ; Baošić, Rada M

    2017-03-01

    The objectives of this study were to gain insights into structure-retention relationships and to propose the model to estimating their retention. Chromatographic investigation of series of 36 Schiff bases and their copper(II) and nickel(II) complexes was performed under both normal- and reverse-phase conditions. Chemical structures of the compounds were characterized by molecular descriptors which are calculated from the structure and related to the chromatographic retention parameters by multiple linear regression analysis. Effects of chelation on retention parameters of investigated compounds, under normal- and reverse-phase chromatographic conditions, were analyzed by principal component analysis, quantitative structure-retention relationship and quantitative structure-activity relationship models were developed on the basis of theoretical molecular descriptors, calculated exclusively from molecular structure, and parameters of retention and lipophilicity. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  15. Case study: Use of isothiazolinone and nitro-morpholine biocides to control microbial contamination in diesel and gasoline storage and distribution systems

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Chesneau, H.L.; Passman, F.J.; Daniels, D.

    1995-05-01

    Responding to feed-back from its retail outlet network, a major, vertically integrated petroleum company undertook to diagnose and remediate diesel and gasoline performance problems. Analysis of samples from tanks at refinery, distribution terminal and retail outlet sites established that uncontrolled microbial contamination was rampant throughout the distribution system. The company then developed and instituted a two-phase action plan. During Phase I, all tanks received corrective (shock) biocide treatment preceding mechanical tank cleaning and fuel polishing. An ongoing Phase II program currently includes routine sampling and analysis combined with periodic preventive biocide treatment. This paper describes the initial problem diagnosis, correctivemore » action plan and preventive program; recommending the Phase II program as a model for all companies involved with refining, distribution or retailing gasoline.« less

  16. Malignant pleural mesothelioma: a phase II trial with docetaxel.

    PubMed

    Vorobiof, D A; Rapoport, B L; Chasen, M R; Abratt, R P; Cronje, N; Fourie, L; McMichael, G; Hacking, D

    2002-03-01

    Current cytotoxic therapy has been of limited benefit to patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma. Single agent chemotherapy has been extensively evaluated in small series of phase II clinical trials, with disappointing responses. Docetaxel, an effective taxane in the treatment of advanced breast cancer and non-small-cell lung cancer, was administered intravenously at a dose of 100 mg/m2 every 3 weeks to 30 chemotherapy naive patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma in a prospective multi-institutional phase II clinical trial. An objective response rate (partial responses) of 10% was documented. Additionally, 21% of the patients had minor responses (intention-to-treat analysis). Three patients died within 2 weeks post-first cycle of therapy, although only one patient's death was directly attributed to the investigational drug, whilst in the majority of the patients, manageable and treatable toxicities were encountered. In this phase II clinical trial, docetaxel proved to be mildly effective in the treatment of patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma.

  17. Optical constants of solid methane and ethane from 10,000 to 450/cm. [in outer planets atmospheres

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Pearl, J.; Ngoh, M.; Ospina, M.; Khanna, R.

    1991-01-01

    Near- and mid-IR spectra of thin films of crystalling phase I and phase II C2H6 are presented using a combined least squares and Kramers-Kronig analysis. Complex refractive indices derived from these data are also presented. To obtain material in phase I, samples are annealed at 33 K for about 30 min; phase II is obtained by recooling below the transition temperature of 20.4 K. The derived optical parameters are shown. The infrared spectrum of phase I CH4 exhibits broad structureless absorptions at about 1300 and 2600/cm. On cooling the sample below 20.4 K (phase II), the absorptions are sharpened, and each band develops fine structure. The present results and those of Roux et al. (1979) are compared. The agreement with the real parts is found to be excellent; given the difference in resolution, the agreement with the imaginary parts is also good.

  18. Analysis of nonuniformity in intron phase distribution.

    PubMed Central

    Fedorov, A; Suboch, G; Bujakov, M; Fedorova, L

    1992-01-01

    The distribution of different intron groups with respect to phases has been analyzed. It has been established that group II introns and nuclear introns have a minimum frequency of phase 2 introns. Since the phase of introns is an extremely conservative measure the observed minimum reflects evolutionary processes. A sample of all known, group I introns was too small to provide a valid characteristic of their phase distribution. The findings observed for the unequal distribution of phases cannot be explained solely on the basis of the mobile properties of introns. One of the most likely explanations for this nonuniformity in the intron phase distribution is the process of exon shuffling. It is proposed that group II introns originated at the early stages of evolution and were involved in the process of exon shuffling. PMID:1598214

  19. The influence of Ni(II) on brushite structure stabilization

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Guerra-López, J. R.; Güida, J. A.; Ramos, M. A.; Punte, G.

    2017-06-01

    Brushite samples doped with Ni(II) in different concentrations, from 5% to 20%, were prepared in aqueous solution at pH = 7 and at two temperatures: 25 and 37 °C. The solid samples were characterized by chemical analysis, infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and x-ray powder diffraction (XRPD). Chemical analysis has shown Ni(II) almost complete incorporation to the solid phase up to 15%. X-ray diffraction patterns have allowed to identify brushite phase with almost no modification of the line breadth and only small shifts of lines positions with increasing Ni(II) incorporation up to 15%. For larger Ni(II) concentration, in solution, a mixture of phases has been detected. Infrared spectra have supported diffraction results. For Ni(II) 20% and over the characteristic bands of HPO42- anions tend to vanish, and the typical shaped PO43- bands are observed. These results have allowed to establish that the presence of low levels of Ni in the synthetic process not only helps brushite formation; but, also prevents brushite from apatite conversion and, in addition, preserves brushite crystallinity. According to these findings, it is possible to propose that nickel traces present in the urinary system might be a trigger to brushite stone formation and/or growth, rather than the expected brushite conversion to hydroxyapatite. This outcome would explain the recurrent detection of difficult to treat brushite stones, observed in the last three decades.

  20. Development of Fatigue and Crack Propagation Design and Analysis Methodology in a Corrosive Environment for Typical Mechanically-Fastened Joints. Volume 3. Phase II Documentation.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1984-10-01

    8217. .,.. .-- . -.- , -. .... , . - .. , -. , , . ..- . . -.- - .- -. . ..-. . . . -. . . . -.- . . . . - . . K~~ K 7--- K, log SclI I.I. Fig. A-2 True Stress Versus Plastic Strain for Cyclic Response

  1. Determination of the maximum MGS mounting height : phase II detailed analysis with LS-DYNA.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2012-12-01

    Determination of the maximum Midwest Guardrail System (MGS) mounting height was performed in two phases. : Phase I concentrated on crash testing: two full-scale crash tests were performed on the MGS with top-rail mounting heights : of 34 in. (864 mm)...

  2. State and county delivered bridge replacement project analysis : phase I and phase II.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2010-02-01

    The purpose of the study was to compare the cost of state delivered bridge projects and county delivered bridge projects. A total of 190 different bridge replacement projects were analyzed. The first phase of the project focused on whether or not the...

  3. Improvement of General Electric’s Chilled Ammonia Process with the use of Membrane Technology

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Muraskin, Dave; Dube, Sanjay; Baburao, Barath

    General Electric Environmental Control Solutions (formerly Alstom Power Environmental Control Systems) set out to complete the Phase 1 award requirements for a Phase II renewal application for their project selected under DOE-FOA-0001190 “Small and Large Scale Pilots for Reducing the Cost of CO 2 Capture and Compression”. The project focus was to implement several improvement concepts utilizing membrane technology at the recipient’s Chilled Ammonia Process (CAP) CO 2 capture large-scale pilot plant. The goal was to lower the overall cost of technology. During the development of costs for the preliminary techno-economic assessment (TEA), it became clear that the capital andmore » operating costs of this concept were not economically attractive. All work related to a Phase II renewal application at that point was halted as GE made the decision not to submit a Phase II renewal application. Discussions with DOE resulted in a path towards useful information produced from the design and cost work already completed on the project. With the reverse osmosis (RO) unit providing most of the cost issues, GE would provide a sensitivity analysis of the RO unit with respect to project cost. This information would be included with the Techno-Economic Analysis along with the Technology Gap Analysis.« less

  4. Visual offline sample stacking via moving neutralization boundary electrophoresis for analysis of heavy metal ion.

    PubMed

    Fan, Yinping; Li, Shan; Fan, Liuyin; Cao, Chengxi

    2012-06-15

    In this paper, a moving neutralization boundary (MNB) electrophoresis is developed as a novel model of visual offline sample stacking for the trace analysis of heavy metal ions (HMIs). In the stacking system, the cathodic-direction motion MNB is designed with 1.95-2.8mM HCl+98 mM KCl in phase alfa and 4.0mM NaOH+96 mM KCl in phase beta. If a little of HMI is present in phase alfa, the metal ion electrically migrates towards the MNB and react with hydroxyl ion, producing precipitation and moving precipitation boundary (MPB). The alkaline precipitation is neutralized by hydrogen ion, leading to a moving eluting boundary (MEB), release of HMI from its precipitation, circle of HMI from the MEB to the MPB, and highly efficient visual stacking. As a proof of concept, a set of metal ions (Cu(II), Co(II), Mn(II), Pb(II) and Cr(III)) were chosen as the model HMIs and capillary electrophoresis (CE) was selected as an analytical tool for the experiments demonstrating the feasibility of MNB-based stacking. As shown in this paper, (i) the visual stacking model was manifested by the experiments; (ii) there was a controllable stacking of HMI in the MNB system; (iii) the offline stacking could achieve higher than 123 fold preconcentration; and (iv) the five HMIs were simultaneously stacked via the developed stacking technique for the trace analyses with the limits of detection (LOD): 3.67×10(-3) (Cu(II)), 1.67×10(-3) (Co(II), 4.17×10(-3) (Mn(II)), 4.6×10(-4) (Pb(II)) and 8.40×10(-4)mM (Cr(III)). Even the off-line stacking was demonstrated for the use of CE-based HMI analysis, it has potential applications in atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and ion chromatography (IC) etc. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  5. Synthetic hydroxyapatites doped with Zn(II) studied by X-ray diffraction, infrared, Raman and thermal analysis

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Guerra-López, José R.; Echeverría, Gustavo A.; Güida, Jorge A.; Viña, Raúl; Punte, Graciela

    2015-06-01

    Calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHap) formation when different amounts of Zn(II) are present in the mother solution has been investigated by atomic absorption, infrared and Raman spectroscopies, X-ray diffraction and thermal analysis (DTA and TG). The studied samples have been synthesized at T=95 °C and pH 9 in air. The analysis of the results have shown that the pure CaHap sample crystallizes in the monoclinic form P21/b. Concentrations up to 20% of Zn(II) in the mother solution, equivalent to smaller concentrations in solid (up to 9.1% in wt), favor the formation of the hexagonal apatite, P63/m, while Zn(II) concentrations higher than 20% in solution help an amorphous phase development where vibrational spectra indicated coexistence of two phases: an apatite and ZnNH4PO4·H2O. Infrared data of thermal treated samples endorse that HPO42- ion had not been incorporated in Zn(II) doped samples during the synthesis process. Present results also allow to conclude that Zn(II) cation exhibits a preference to occupy the Ca2 site of the apatite structure and induces water adsorption and a small quantity of CO32- cation incorporation, leading to formation of a less crystalline Ca deficient apatite.

  6. Design specifications for NALDA (Naval Aviation Logistics Data Analysis) CAI (computer aided instruction): Phase 2, Interim report

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Twitty, A.F.; Handler, B.H.; Duncan, L.D.

    Data Systems Engineering Organization (DSEO) personnel are developing a prototype computer aided instruction (CAI) system for the Naval Aviation Logistics Data Analysis (NALDA) system. The objective of this project is to provide a prototype for implementing CAI as an enhancement to existing NALDA training. The CAI prototype project is being performed in phases. The task undertaken in Phase I was to analyze the problem and the alternative solutions and to develop a set of recommendations on how best to proceed. In Phase II a structured design and specification document was completed that will provide the basis for development and implementationmore » of the desired CAI system. Phase III will consist of designing, developing, and testing a user interface which will extend the features of the Phase II prototype. The design of the CAI prototype has followed a rigorous structured analysis based on Yourdon/DeMarco methodology and Information Engineering tools. This document includes data flow diagrams, a data dictionary, process specifications, an entity-relationship diagram, a curriculum description, special function key definitions, and a set of standards developed for the NALDA CAI Prototype.« less

  7. Analysis of WakeVAS Benefits Using ACES Build 3.2.1

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Smith, Jeremy C.

    2005-01-01

    The FAA and NASA are currently engaged in a Wake Turbulence Research Program to revise wake turbulence separation standards, procedures, and criteria to increase airport capacity while maintaining or increasing safety. The research program is divided into three phases: Phase I near term procedural enhancements; Phase II wind dependent Wake Vortex Advisory System (WakeVAS) Concepts of Operations (ConOps); and Phase III farther term ConOps based on wake prediction and sensing. This report contains an analysis that evaluates the benefits of a closely spaced parallel runway (CSPR) Phase I ConOps, a single runway and CSPR Phase II ConOps and a single runway Phase III ConOps. A series of simulation runs were performed using the Airspace Concepts Evaluation System (ACES) Build 3.21 air traffic simulator to provide an initial assessment of the reduction in delay and cost savings obtained by the use of a WakeVAS at selected U.S. airports. The ACES simulator is being developed by NASA Ames Research Center as part of the Virtual Airspace Modelling and Simulation (VAMS) program.

  8. State and county delivered bridge replacement project analysis : phase I and phase II, summary report, February 2010.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2010-02-01

    The purpose of the study was to compare the cost of state delivered bridge projects and county delivered bridge projects. A total of 190 different bridge replacement projects were analyzed. The first phase of the project focused on whether or not the...

  9. Portable microfluidic platform for real-time, high sensitive detection and identification of trichloroethylene and other organochloride compounds

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Jensen, Erik

    In this successful SBIR Phase II effort, HJ Science & Technology, Inc. has designed and built a novel portable instrument capable of performing automated aqueous organochloride (chlorinated solvent) speciation analysis for environmental monitoring at DoE sites. Our technique employs performing organochloride conjugation, labeling the conjugate with an efficient fluorophore, and performing on-chip capillary electrophoresis separation with laser induced fluorescence detection. The key component of the portable instrument is a novel microfluidic chip capable of complete “end-to-end” automation of sample preparation, conjugation, labeling, and μCE separation and detection. In addition, the Phase II prototype includes key supporting instrumentation such as themore » optical module, pneumatic manifold, electronics, software, etc. As such, we have achieved all of the following 4 Phase II technical objectives: 1) Further refine and optimize the “on-chip” automation of the organochloride conjugation and labeling protocol, 2) Further improve the microfluidic chip fabrication process and the pneumatic manifold design in order to address issues related to performance consistency, product yield, performance reliability, and user friendliness, 3) Design and build the supporting components of the Phase II prototype including optical module, electronics, and software, and 4) Assemble the Phase II prototype hardware.« less

  10. A phase II flexible screening design allowing for interim analysis and comparison with historical control.

    PubMed

    Wu, Wenting; Bot, Brian; Hu, Yan; Geyer, Susan M; Sargent, Daniel J

    2013-07-01

    Sargent and Goldberg [1] proposed a randomized phase II flexible screening design (SG design) which took multiple characteristics of candidate regimens into consideration in selecting a regimen for further phase III testing. In this paper, we extend the SG design by including provisions for an interim analysis and/or a comparison to a historical control. By including a comparison with a historical control, a modified SG design not only identifies a more promising treatment but also assures that the regimen has a clinically meaningful level of efficacy as compared to a historical control. By including an interim analysis, a modified SG design could reduce the number of patients exposed to inferior treatment regimens. When compared to the original SG design, the modified designs increase the sample size moderately, but expand the utility of the flexible screening design substantially. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  11. Carbon footprint estimator, phase II : volume I - GASCAP model.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2014-03-01

    The GASCAP model was developed to provide a software tool for analysis of the life-cycle GHG : emissions associated with the construction and maintenance of transportation projects. This phase : of development included techniques for estimating emiss...

  12. Microstructural analyses of two high noble gold-platinum alloys before and after conditioning in a cell culture medium

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rudolf, R.; Anzel, I.; Gusel, L.; Stamenkovi, D.; Todorovi, A.; Colic, M.

    2010-12-01

    Microstructures of two high noble experimental Au-Pt alloys were compared before and after conditioning for biocompatibility, in order to identify phases and microelements responsible for the alloys' corrosive behaviour. Microstructural characterization was carried-out by optical and scanning electron microscopy, in addition to energy dispersive X-ray analysis. X-ray diffraction was applied to determine the phases' composition and their contribution in the alloys. Additionally, simultaneous thermal analysis was used to identify the temperatures of phase transformations. An overall assessment before conditioning showed that Au-Pt I is a two-phase alloy containing a dominant Au-rich α1 phase and a minor Pt-rich α2 phase, while the Au-Pt II alloy contains in addition three minor phases: AuZn3, Pt3Zn and Au1.4Zn0.52. The highest content of Zn (up to 6.76 wt.%) was detected in the Pt3Zn phase. After RPMI cell culture medium conditioning, the Pt3Zn and AuZn3 phases disappeared, suggesting that they are predominantly responsible for Zn loss and the lower corrosive stability of the Au-Pt II alloy.

  13. Effects of extracellular polymeric substances on the bioaccumulation of mercury and its toxicity toward the cyanobacterium Microcystis aeruginosa.

    PubMed

    Chen, Ho-Wen; Huang, Winn-Jung; Wu, Ting-Hsiang; Hon, Chen-Lin

    2014-01-01

    This investigation examines how extracellular polymeric substances (EPSs) and environmental factors affect the bioaccumulation and toxicity of inorganic mercury (+2 oxidation state, Hg(II)) using a culture of Microcystis aeruginosa, which dominates eutrophic reservoir populations. The identified EPSs were classified as carbohydrates and proteins. Evaluation of the bioaccumulation of Hg(II) in cells by multiple regression analysis reveals that the concentration of EPSs in filtrate, the initial concentration of Hg(II) in medium, and the culture age significantly affected the amount of Hg(II) accumulated. Composition profiles revealed that the concentrations of soluble carbohydrates were significantly higher in Hg(II)-accumulated cells than in the control ones. Preliminary results based on scanning electron microscopic (SEM) map investigations suggest that most of the Hg(II) was accumulated in the cytoplasm (intracellular). Additionally, the effective concentrations (EC50) of Hg(II) that inhibit the growth of M. aeruginosa were 38.6 μg L(-1) in the logarithmic phase and 17.5 μg L(-1) in the stationary phase. As expected, the production of more EPSs in the logarithmic phase typically implies higher EC50 values because EPSs may be regarded as a protective barrier of cells against an external Hg(II) load, enabling them to be less influenced by Hg(II).

  14. HST/COS Far-ultraviolet Spectroscopic Analysis of U Geminorum Following a Wide Outburst

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Godon, Patrick; Shara, Michael M.; Sion, Edward M.; Zurek, David

    2017-12-01

    We used the Cosmic Origins Spectrograph (COS) on the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) to obtain a series of four far-ultraviolet (FUV; 915-2148 Å) spectroscopic observations of the prototypical dwarf nova U Geminorum during its cooling following a two-week outburst. Our FUV spectral analysis of the data indicates that the white dwarf (WD) cools from a temperature of ˜41,500 K, 15 days after the peak of the outburst, to ˜36,250 K, 56 days after the peak of the outburst, assuming a massive WD (log(g) = 8.8) and a distance of 100.4 ± 3.7 pc. These results are self-consistent with a ˜1.1 M ⊙ WD with a 5000 ± 200 km radius. The spectra show absorption lines of H I, He II, C II III IV, N III IV, O VI, S IV, Si II III IV, Al III, Ar III, and Fe II, but no emission features. We find suprasolar abundances of nitrogen, confirming the anomalous high N/C ratio. The FUV light curve reveals a ±5% modulation with the orbital phase, showing dips near phases 0.25 and ˜0.75, where the spectra exhibit an increase in the depth of some absorption lines and in particular strong absorption lines from Si II, Al III, and Ar III. The phase dependence we observe is consistent with material overflowing the disk rim at the hot spot, reaching a maximum elevation near phase 0.75, falling back at smaller radii near phase 0.5 where it bounces off the disk surface, and again rising above the disk near phase ˜0.25. There is a large scatter in the absorption lines’ velocities, especially for the silicon lines, while the carbon lines seem to match more closely the orbital velocity of the WD. This indicates that many absorption lines are affected by—or form in—the overflowing stream material veiling the WD, making the analysis of the WD spectra more difficult. Based on observations made with the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope, obtained at the Space Telescope Science Institute, which is operated by AURA, Inc., under NASA contract NAS 5-26555.

  15. A controlled evaluation of oral screen effects on intra-oral pressure curve characteristics.

    PubMed

    Knösel, Michael; Jung, Klaus; Kinzinger, Gero; Bauss, Oskar; Engelke, Wilfried

    2010-10-01

    The purpose of this study was to quantify the impact of oral screen (OS) application on intra-oral pressure characteristics in three malocclusion groups. Fifty-six randomly recruited participants (26 males and 30 females) who met the inclusion criteria of either an Angle Class I occlusal relationships or Angle Class II1 or II2 malocclusions, were assigned by dentition to group I (n = 31), group II1 (n = 12), or group II2 (n = 13). Two 3 minute periods of intra-oral pressure monitoring were conducted on each participant, using two different oral end fittings connected to a piezo-resistive relative pressure sensor: (1) a flexible OS and (2) a small-dimensioned air-permeable end cap (EC), which was placed laterally in the premolar region, thus recording intra-oral pressure independent of the influence of the OS. Pressure curve characteristics for both periods and between the malocclusion groups were evaluated with reference to the frequency of swallowing peaks, duration, and altitude of negative pressure plateau phases and the area under the pressure curve. Statistical analysis was undertaken using analysis of variance (ANOVA), the Wilcoxon Mann-Whitney test, and spearman correlation coefficient. A median number of two peaks (median height -20.9 mbar) and three plateau phases (median height of -2.3 mbar) may be regarded as normative for normal occlusion subjects during a 3 minute period, at rest. OS application raised the median average duration and height of intra-oral negative pressure plateau phases in the II1 subjects, exceeding those of group I, but less than the plateau duration in group II2. Median peak heights were distinctively lower in groups I and II1 during OS application. It is concluded that additional training for extension of intra-oral pressure phases may be a promising approach to pre-orthodontic Class II division 1 treatment.

  16. Evaluation of phase II toxicity identification evaluation methods for freshwater whole sediment and interstitial water.

    PubMed

    Phillips, Bryn M; Anderson, Brian S; Hunt, John W; Clark, Sara L; Voorhees, Jennifer P; Tjeerdema, Ron S; Casteline, Jane; Stewart, Margaret

    2009-02-01

    Phase I whole sediment toxicity identification evaluation (TIE) methods have been developed to characterize the cause of toxicity as organic chemicals, metals, or ammonia. In Phase II identification treatments, resins added to whole sediment to reduce toxicity caused by metals and organics can be separated and eluted much like solid-phase extraction (SPE) columns are eluted for interstitial water. In this study, formulated reference sediments spiked with toxic concentrations of copper, fluoranthene, and nonylphenol were subjected to whole sediment and interstitial water TIE treatments to evaluate Phase I and II TIE procedures for identifying the cause of toxicity to Hyalella azteca. Phase I TIE treatments consisted of adding adsorbent resins to whole sediment, and using SPE columns to remove spiked chemicals from interstitial water. Phase II treatments consisted of eluting resins and SPE columns and the preparation and testing of eluates for toxicity and chemistry. Whole sediment resins and SPE columns significantly reduced toxicity, and the eluates from all treatments contained toxic concentrations of the spiked chemical except for interstitial water fluoranthene. Toxic unit analysis based on median lethal concentrations (LC50s) allowed for the comparison of chemical concentrations among treatments, and demonstrated that the bioavailability of some chemicals was reduced in some samples and treatments. The concentration of fluoranthene in the resin eluate closely approximated the original interstitial water concentration, but the resin eluate concentrations of copper and nonylphenol were much higher than the original interstitial water concentrations. Phase II whole sediment TIE treatments provided complementary lines of evidence to the interstitial water TIE results.

  17. NALDA (Naval Aviation Logistics Data Analysis) CAI (computer aided instruction)

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Handler, B.H.; France, P.A.; Frey, S.C.

    Data Systems Engineering Organization (DSEO) personnel developed a prototype computer aided instruction CAI system for the Naval Aviation Logistics Data Analysis (NALDA) system. The objective of this project was to provide a CAI prototype that could be used as an enhancement to existing NALDA training. The CAI prototype project was performed in phases. The task undertaken in Phase I was to analyze the problem and the alternative solutions and to develop a set of recommendations on how best to proceed. The findings from Phase I are documented in Recommended CAI Approach for the NALDA System (Duncan et al., 1987). Inmore » Phase II, a structured design and specifications were developed, and a prototype CAI system was created. A report, NALDA CAI Prototype: Phase II Final Report, was written to record the findings and results of Phase II. NALDA CAI: Recommendations for an Advanced Instructional Model, is comprised of related papers encompassing research on computer aided instruction CAI, newly developing training technologies, instructional systems development, and an Advanced Instructional Model. These topics were selected because of their relevancy to the CAI needs of NALDA. These papers provide general background information on various aspects of CAI and give a broad overview of new technologies and their impact on the future design and development of training programs. The paper within have been index separately elsewhere.« less

  18. Interaction between dexibuprofen and dexketoprofen in the orofacial formalin test in mice.

    PubMed

    Miranda, H F; Noriega, V; Sierralta, F; Prieto, J C

    2011-01-01

    Animal models are used to research the mechanisms of pain and to mimic human pain. The purpose of this study was to determine the degree of interaction between dexketoprofen and dexibuprofen, by isobolographic analysis using the formalin orofacial assay in mice. This assay presents two-phase time course: an early short-lasting, phase I, starting immediately after the formalin injection producing a tonic acute pain, leaving a 15 min quiescent period, followed by a prolonged, phase II, after the formalin and representing inflammatory pain. Administration of dexketoprofen or dexibuprofen produced a dose-dependent antinociception, with different potency, either during phases I or II. The co-administration of dexketoprofen and dexibuprofen produced synergism in phase I and II. In conclusion, both dexketoprofen and dexibuprofen are able to induce antinociception in the orofacial formalin assay. Their co-administration produced a synergism, which could be related to the different degree of COX inhibition and other mechanisms of analgesics. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. Community shift of biofilms developed in a full-scale drinking water distribution system switching from different water sources.

    PubMed

    Li, Weiying; Wang, Feng; Zhang, Junpeng; Qiao, Yu; Xu, Chen; Liu, Yao; Qian, Lin; Li, Wenming; Dong, Bingzhi

    2016-02-15

    The bacterial community of biofilms in drinking water distribution systems (DWDS) with various water sources has been rarely reported. In this research, biofilms were sampled at three points (A, B, and C) during the river water source phase (phase I), the interim period (phase II) and the reservoir water source phase (phase III), and the biofilm community was determined using the 454-pyrosequencing method. Results showed that microbial diversity declined in phase II but increased in phase III. The primary phylum was Proteobacteria during three phases, while the dominant class at points A and B was Betaproteobacteria (>49%) during all phases, but that changed to Holophagae in phase II (62.7%) and Actinobacteria in phase III (35.6%) for point C, which was closely related to its water quality. More remarkable community shift was found at the genus level. In addition, analysis results showed that water quality could significantly affect microbial diversity together, while the nutrient composition (e.g. C/N ration) of the water environment might determine the microbial community. Furthermore, Mycobacterium spp. and Pseudomonas spp. were detected in the biofilm, which should give rise to attention. This study revealed that water source switching produced substantial impact on the biofilm community. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. Magnetic susceptibility of alkali-tetracyanoquinodimethane salts and extended Hubbard models with bond order and charge density wave phases

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kumar, Manoranjan; Topham, Benjamin J.; Yu, RuiHui; Ha, Quoc Binh Dang; Soos, Zoltán G.

    2011-06-01

    The molar spin susceptibilities χ(T) of Na-tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ), K-TCNQ, and Rb-TCNQ(II) are fit quantitatively to 450 K in terms of half-filled bands of three one-dimensional Hubbard models with extended interactions using exact results for finite systems. All three models have bond order wave (BOW) and charge density wave (CDW) phases with boundary V = Vc(U) for nearest-neighbor interaction V and on-site repulsion U. At high T, all three salts have regular stacks of TCNQ^- anion radicals. The χ(T) fits place Na and K in the CDW phase and Rb(II) in the BOW phase with V ≈ Vc. The Na and K salts have dimerized stacks at T < Td while Rb(II) has regular stacks at 100 K. The χ(T) analysis extends to dimerized stacks and to dimerization fluctuations in Rb(II). The three models yield consistent values of U, V, and transfer integrals t for closely related TCNQ^- stacks. Model parameters based on χ(T) are smaller than those from optical data that in turn are considerably reduced by electronic polarization from quantum chemical calculation of U, V, and t of adjacent TCNQ^- ions. The χ(T) analysis shows that fully relaxed states have reduced model parameters compared to optical or vibration spectra of dimerized or regular TCNQ^- stacks.

  1. A post hoc analysis of subgroup outcomes and creatinine in the phase III clinical trial (EMPOWER) of dexpramipexole in ALS.

    PubMed

    Bozik, Michael E; Mitsumoto, Hiroshi; Brooks, Benjamin R; Rudnicki, Stacy A; Moore, Dan H; Zhang, Bing; Ludolph, Albert; Cudkowicz, Merit E; van den Berg, Leonard H; Mather, James; Petzinger, Thomas; Archibald, Donald

    2014-09-01

    Our objective was to compare the phase II and phase III (EMPOWER) studies of dexpramipexole in ALS and evaluate potential EMPOWER responder subgroups and biomarkers based on significant inter-study population differences. In a post hoc analysis, we compared the baseline population characteristics of both dexpramipexole studies and analyzed EMPOWER efficacy outcomes and laboratory measures in subgroups defined by significant inter-study differences. Results showed that, compared with phase II, the proportion of El Escorial criteria (EEC) definite participants decreased (p = 0.005), riluzole use increased (p = 0.002), and mean symptom duration increased (p = 0.037) significantly in EMPOWER. Baseline creatinine (p < 0.001) and on-study creatinine change (p < 0.001) correlated significantly with ALSFRS-R in EMPOWER. In the EMPOWER subgroup defined by EEC-definite ALS, riluzole use, and < median symptom duration (15.3 months), dexpramipexole-treated participants had reduced ALSFRS-R slope decline (p = 0.015), decreased mortality (p = 0.011), and reduced creatinine loss (p = 0.003). In conclusion, significant differences existed between the phase II and EMPOWER study populations in ALS clinical trials of dexpramipexole. In a post hoc analysis of EMPOWER subgroups defined by these differences, potential clinical benefits of dexpramipexole were identified in the subgroup of riluzole-treated, short-symptom duration, EEC-definite ALS participants. Creatinine loss correlated with disease progression and was reduced in dexpramipexole-treated participants, suggesting it as a candidate biomarker.

  2. Bovine serum albumin-Cu(II) hybrid nanoflowers: An effective adsorbent for solid phase extraction and slurry sampling flame atomic absorption spectrometric analysis of cadmium and lead in water, hair, food and cigarette samples.

    PubMed

    Yilmaz, Erkan; Ocsoy, Ismail; Ozdemir, Nalan; Soylak, Mustafa

    2016-02-04

    Herein, the synthesis of bovine serum albumin-Cu(II) hybrid nanoflowers (BSA-NFs) through the building blocks of bovine serum albumin (BSA) and copper(II) ions in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) and their use as adsorbent for cadmium and lead ions are reported. The BSA-NFs, for the first time, were efficiently utilized as novel adsorbent for solid phase extraction (SPE) of cadmium and lead ions in water, food, cigarette and hair samples. The method is based on the separation and pre-concentration of Cd(II) and Pb(II) by BSA-NFs prior to determination by slurry analysis via flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). The analytes were adsorbed on BSA-NFs under the vortex mixing and then the ion-loaded slurry was separated and directly introduced into the flame AAS nebulizer by using a hand-made micro sample introduction system to eliminate a number of drawbacks. The effects of analytical key parameters, such as pH, amount of BSA-NFs, vortexing time, sample volume, and matrix effect of foreign ions on adsorbing of Cd(II) and Pb(II) were systematically investigated and optimized. The limits of detection (LODs) for Cd(II) and Pb(II) were calculated as 0.37 μg L(-)(1) and 8.8 μg L(-)(1), respectively. The relative standard deviation percentages (RSDs) (N = 5) for Cd(II) and Pb(II) were 7.2%, and 5.0%, respectively. The accuracy of the developed procedure was validated by the analysis of certified reference materials (TMDA-53.3 Fortified Water, TMDA-70 Fortified Water, SPS-WW2 Waste Water, NCSDC-73349 Bush Branches and Leaves) and by addition/recovery analysis. The quantitative recoveries were obtained for the analysis of certified reference materials and addition/recovery tests. The method was successfully applied to the analysis of cadmium and lead in water, food, cigarette and hair samples. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  3. Arterial signal timing optimization using PASSER II-87

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Chang, E.C.P.; Messer, C.J.; Garza, R.U.

    1988-11-01

    PASSER is the acronym for the Progression Analysis and Signal System Evaluation Routine. PASSER II was originally developed by the Texas Transportation Institute (TTI) for the Dallas Corridor Project. The Texas State Department of Highways and Public Transportation (SDHPT) has sponsored the subsequent program development on both mainframe computers and microcomputers. The theory, model structure, methodology, and logic of PASSER II have been evaluated and well documented. PASSER II is widely used because of its ability to easily select multiple-phase sequences by adjusting the background cycle length and progression speeds to find the optimal timing plants, such as cycle, greenmore » split, phase sequence, and offsets, that can efficiently maximize the two-way progression bands.« less

  4. Influence of relative permeabilities on chemical enhanced oil recovery

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Destefanis, M. F.; Savioli, G. B.

    2011-05-01

    The main objective of chemical flooding is to mobilize the trapped oil remaining after a secondary recovery by waterflooding. This purpose is achieved by lowering the oil-water interfacial tension and producing partial miscibility between both phases. The chemical partition among phases (phase behavior) influences all other physical properties. In particular, it affects residual saturations determining relative permeability curves. Relative permeabilities rule the flow of each phase through the porous medium, so they play an essential role in oil recovery. Therefore, in this work we study the influence of relative permeabilities on the behavior of a surfactant-polymer flooding for the three different types of phase behavior. This analysis is performed applying the 3D compositional numerical simulator UTCHEM developed at the University of Texas at Austin. From the examples studied, we conclude that the influence of relative permeabilities depends on the type of phase behavior, i.e., as microemulsion relative permeability decreases, oil recovery increases for Types II(+) and III while slightly decreases for Type II(-). Moreover, a better displacement efficiency is observed for Types II(+) and III, because they behave similarly to a miscible displacement.

  5. Growth and characterization of metal halide perovskite crystals: Benzyltributyl ammonium tetrachloro manganate(II) monohydrate

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dhandapani, M.; Sugandhi, K.; Nithya, S.; Muthuraja, P.; Balachandar, S.; Aranganayagam, K. R.

    2018-05-01

    The perovskite type organic-inorganic hybrid benzyltributyl ammoniumtetrachloro manganate (II) monohydrates (BTBA-Mn) are synthesized and the single crystals are grown by slow evaporation solution growth technique. The structure of the grown crystals are confirmed by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), unit cell parameter analysis, Fourier transform Infrared (FTIR), elemental analysis and 13C-NMR spectral studies. Thermogravimetry (TG), differential thermal analysis (DTA) and differential scanning colorimetric (DSC) analysis were carried out to understand thermal stability and occurrence of phase transition.

  6. Application of Colorimetric Solid Phase Extraction (C-SPE) to Monitoring Nickel(II) and Lead(II) in Spacecraft Water Supplies

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Diaz, Neil C.; Gazda, Daniel B.; Fritz, James S.; Porter, Marc D.; Rutz, Jeff; Mudgett, Paul; Schultz, John

    2004-01-01

    Archived water samples collected on the International Space Station (ISS) and returned to Earth for analysis have, in a few instances, contained trace levels of heavy metals. Building on our previous advances using Colorimetric Solid Phase Extraction (C-SPE) as a biocide monitoring technique, we are devising methods for the low level monitoring of nickel(II), lead(II) and other heavy metals. C-SPE is a sorption-spectrophotometric platform based on the extraction of analytes onto a membrane impregnated with a colorimetric reagent that are then quantified on the surface of the membrane using a diffuse reflectance spectrophotometer. Along these lines, we have determined nickel(II) via complexation with dimethylglyoxime (DMG) and begun to examine the analysis of lead(II) by its reaction with 2,5- dimercapto-1,3,4-thiadiazole (DMTD) and 4-(2- pyridylazo)-resorcinol (PAR). These developments are also extending a new variant of C-SPE in which immobilized reagents are being incorporated into this methodology in order to optimize sample reaction conditions and to introduce the colorimetric reagent. This paper describes the status of our development of these two new methods.

  7. Small Business Innovation Research GRC Phase I, Phase II, and Post-Phase II Opportunity Assessment for 2015

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Nguyen, Hung D.; Steele, Gynelle C.

    2016-01-01

    This report outlines the 2015 Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR) Phase I, Phase II, and Post-Phase II opportunity contract award results associated with NASA's Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate (ARMD), Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate (HEOMD), Science Mission Directorate (SMD), and Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) for NASA Glenn Research Center. The report also highlights the number of Phase I, Phase II, and Post-Phase II contracts awarded by mission directorate. The 2015 Phase I contract awards to companies in Ohio and their corresponding technologies are also discussed.

  8. Ground penetrating radar (GPR) analysis : Phase II field evaluation.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2011-10-01

    "The objective of this work was to evaluate the feasibility and value of expanding the MDT's Ground : Penetrating Radar (GPR) program to pavement design and rehabilitation, and to network level : evaluation. Phase I of this project concluded that in ...

  9. The Utilization of the Microflora Indigenous to and Present in Oil-Bearing Formations to Selectively Plug the More Porous Zones Thereby Increasing Oil Recovery During Waterflooding

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Brown, Lewis R.; Byrnes, Martin J.; Stephens, James O.

    This project was designed to demonstrate that a microbially enhanced oil recovery process (MEOR), developed in part under DOE Contract No. DE-AC22-90BC14665, will increase oil recovery from fluvial dominated deltaic oil reservoirs. The process involves stimulating the in-situ indigenous microbial population in the reservoir to grow in the more permeable zones, thus diverting flow to other areas of the reservoir, thereby increasing the effectiveness of the waterflood. This five and a half year project is divided into three phases, Phase I, Planning and Analysis (9 months), Phase II, Implementation (45 months), and Phase III, Technology Transfer (12 months). Phase Imore » was completed and reported in the first annual report. This fifth annual report covers the completion of Phase II and the first six months of Phase III.« less

  10. Fe(II) sorption on pyrophyllite: Effect of structural Fe(III) (impurity) in pyrophyllite on nature of layered double hydroxide (LDH) secondary mineral formation

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Starcher, Autumn N.; Li, Wei; Kukkadapu, Ravi K.

    Fe(II)-Al(III)-LDH (layered double hydroxide) phases have been shown to form from reactions of aqueous Fe(II) with Fe-free Al-bearing minerals (phyllosilicate/clays and Al-oxides). To our knowledge, the effect of small amounts of structural Fe(III) impurities in “neutral” clays on such reactions, however, were not studied. In this study to understand the role of structural Fe(III) impurity in clays, laboratory batch studies with pyrophyllite (10 g/L), an Al-bearing phyllosilicate, containing small amounts of structural Fe(III) impurities and 0.8 mM and 3 mM Fe(II) (both natural and enriched in 57Fe) were carried out at pH 7.5 under anaerobic conditions (4% H2 – 96%more » N2 atmosphere). Samples were taken up to 4 weeks for analysis by Fe-X-ray absorption spectroscopy and 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy. In addition to the precipitation of Fe(II)-Al(III)-LDH phases as observed in earlier studies with pure minerals (no Fe(III) impurities in the minerals), the analyses indicated formation of small amounts of Fe(III) containing solid(s), most probably hybrid a Fe(II)-Al(III)/Fe(III)-LDH phase. The mechanism of Fe(II) oxidation was not apparent but most likely was due to interfacial electron transfer from the sorbed Fe(II) to the structural Fe(III) and/or surface-sorption-induced electron-transfer from the sorbed Fe(II) to the clay lattice. Increase in the Fe(II)/Al ratio of the LDH with reaction time further indicated the complex nature of the samples. This research provides evidence for the formation of both Fe(II)-Al(III)-LDH and Fe(II)-Fe(III)/Al(III)-LDH-like phases during reactions of Fe(II) in systems that mimic the natural environments. Better understanding Fe phase formation in complex laboratory studies will improve models of natural redox systems.« less

  11. Analysis of the phase control of the ITER ICRH antenna array. Influence on the load resilience and radiated power spectrum

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Messiaen, A., E-mail: a.messiaen@fz-juelich.de; Ongena, J.; Vervier, M.

    2015-12-10

    The paper analyses how the phasing of the ITER ICRH 24 strap array evolves from the power sources up to the strap currents of the antenna. The study of the phasing control and coherence through the feeding circuits with prematching and automatic matching and decoupling network is made by modeling starting from the TOPICA matrix of the antenna array for a low coupling plasma profile and for current drive phasing (worst case for mutual coupling effects). The main results of the analysis are: (i) the strap current amplitude is well controlled by the antinode V{sub max} amplitude of the feedingmore » lines, (ii) the best toroidal phasing control is done by the adjustment of the mean phase of V{sub max} of each poloidal straps column, (iii) with well adjusted system the largest strap current phasing error is ±20°, (iv) the effect on load resilience remains well below the maximum affordable VSWR of the generators, (v) the effect on the radiated power spectrum versus k{sub //} computed by means of the coupling code ANTITER II remains small for the considered cases.« less

  12. Quality of reporting in oncology phase II trials: A 5-year assessment through systematic review.

    PubMed

    Langrand-Escure, Julien; Rivoirard, Romain; Oriol, Mathieu; Tinquaut, Fabien; Rancoule, Chloé; Chauvin, Frank; Magné, Nicolas; Bourmaud, Aurélie

    2017-01-01

    Phase II clinical trials are a cornerstone of the development in experimental treatments They work as a "filter" for phase III trials confirmation. Surprisingly the attrition ratio in Phase III trials in oncology is significantly higher than in any other medical specialty. This suggests phase II trials in oncology fail to achieve their goal. Objective The present study aims at estimating the quality of reporting in published oncology phase II clinical trials. A literature review was conducted among all phase II and phase II/III clinical trials published during a 5-year period (2010-2015). All articles electronically published by three randomly-selected oncology journals with Impact-Factors>4 were included: Journal of Clinical Oncology, Annals of Oncology and British Journal of Cancer. Quality of reporting was assessed using the Key Methodological Score. 557 articles were included. 315 trials were single-arm studies (56.6%), 193 (34.6%) were randomized and 49 (8.8%) were non-randomized multiple-arm studies. The Methodological Score was equal to 0 (lowest level), 1, 2, 3 (highest level) respectively for 22 (3.9%), 119 (21.4%), 270 (48.5%) and 146 (26.2%) articles. The primary end point is almost systematically reported (90.5%), while sample size calculation is missing in 66% of the articles. 3 variables were independently associated with reporting of a high standard: presence of statistical design (p-value <0.001), multicenter trial (p-value = 0.012), per-protocol analysis (p-value <0.001). Screening was mainly performed by a sole author. The Key Methodological Score was based on only 3 items, making grey zones difficult to translate. This literature review highlights the existence of gaps concerning the quality of reporting. It therefore raised the question of the suitability of the methodology as well as the quality of these trials, reporting being incomplete in the corresponding articles.

  13. Quality of reporting in oncology phase II trials: A 5-year assessment through systematic review

    PubMed Central

    Langrand-Escure, Julien; Rivoirard, Romain; Oriol, Mathieu; Tinquaut, Fabien; Rancoule, Chloé; Chauvin, Frank; Magné, Nicolas; Bourmaud, Aurélie

    2017-01-01

    Background Phase II clinical trials are a cornerstone of the development in experimental treatments They work as a "filter" for phase III trials confirmation. Surprisingly the attrition ratio in Phase III trials in oncology is significantly higher than in any other medical specialty. This suggests phase II trials in oncology fail to achieve their goal. Objective The present study aims at estimating the quality of reporting in published oncology phase II clinical trials. Data sources A literature review was conducted among all phase II and phase II/III clinical trials published during a 5-year period (2010–2015). Study eligibility criteria All articles electronically published by three randomly-selected oncology journals with Impact-Factors>4 were included: Journal of Clinical Oncology, Annals of Oncology and British Journal of Cancer. Intervention Quality of reporting was assessed using the Key Methodological Score. Results 557 articles were included. 315 trials were single-arm studies (56.6%), 193 (34.6%) were randomized and 49 (8.8%) were non-randomized multiple-arm studies. The Methodological Score was equal to 0 (lowest level), 1, 2, 3 (highest level) respectively for 22 (3.9%), 119 (21.4%), 270 (48.5%) and 146 (26.2%) articles. The primary end point is almost systematically reported (90.5%), while sample size calculation is missing in 66% of the articles. 3 variables were independently associated with reporting of a high standard: presence of statistical design (p-value <0.001), multicenter trial (p-value = 0.012), per-protocol analysis (p-value <0.001). Limitations Screening was mainly performed by a sole author. The Key Methodological Score was based on only 3 items, making grey zones difficult to translate. Conclusions & implications of key findings This literature review highlights the existence of gaps concerning the quality of reporting. It therefore raised the question of the suitability of the methodology as well as the quality of these trials, reporting being incomplete in the corresponding articles. PMID:29216190

  14. JUPITER-II Program: ANL analysis of ZPPR-13A and ZPPR-13B

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Collins, P.J.; Brumbach, S.B.

    1984-08-09

    The ZPPR-13 experiments provide basic physics data for radial-heterogeneous LMFBR cores of approximately 700 MWe size. Assemblies ZPPR-13A, ZPPR-13B and ZPPR-13C comprised the JUPITER-II cooperative program between US-DOE and PNC of Japan. The measurements were made between August 1982 and April 1984. This report describes in detail the results of the ANL analyses of phases 13A and 13B/1 and includes preliminary results for the later assemblies of phase 13B. The data were compiled primarily for discussions at the Third Jupiter Analysis Meeting to be held at ANL-West between September 11th and 14th, 1984.

  15. Interim analysis of postoperative chemoradiotherapy with capecitabine and oxaliplatin versus capecitabine alone for pathological stage II and III rectal cancer: a randomized multicenter phase III trial.

    PubMed

    Feng, Yan-Ru; Zhu, Yuan; Liu, Lu-Ying; Wang, Wei-Hu; Wang, Shu-Lian; Song, Yong-Wen; Wang, Xin; Tang, Yuan; Liu, Yue-Ping; Ren, Hua; Fang, Hui; Zhang, Shi-Ping; Liu, Xin-Fan; Yu, Zi-Hao; Li, Ye-Xiong; Jin, Jing

    2016-05-03

    The aim of this study is to present an interim analysis of a phase III trial (NCT00714077) of postoperative concurrent capecitabine and radiotherapy with or without oxaliplatin for pathological stage II and III rectal cancer. Patients with pathologically confirmed stage II and III rectal cancer were randomized to either radiotherapy with concurrent capecitabine (Cap-RT group) or with capecitabine and oxaliplatin (Capox-RT group). The primary endpoint was 3-year disease-free survival rate (DFS). The 3-year DFS rate was 73.9% in the Capox-RT group and 71.6% in the Cap-RT group (HR 0.92, p = 0.647), respectively. No significant difference was observed in overall survival, cumulative incidence of local recurrence and distant metastasis between the two groups (p > 0.05). More grade 3-4 acute toxicity was observed in the Capox-RT group than in the Cap-RT group (38.1% vs. 29.2%, p = 0.041). Inclusion of oxaliplatin in the capecitabine-based postoperative regimen did not improve DFS but increased toxicities for pathological stage II and III rectal cancer in this interim analysis.

  16. Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Patiromer and Sodium Zirconium Cyclosilicate: A New Armamentarium for the Treatment of Hyperkalemia.

    PubMed

    Meaney, Calvin J; Beccari, Mario V; Yang, Yang; Zhao, Jiwei

    2017-04-01

    To compare and contrast the efficacy and safety of patiromer and sodium zirconium cyclosilicate (ZS-9) in the treatment of hyperkalemia. A systematic review and meta-analysis of phase II and III clinical trial data was completed. Eight studies (two phase II and four phase III trials with two subgroup analyses) were included in the qualitative analysis, and six studies (two phase II and four phase III trials) were included in the meta-analysis. Significant heterogeneity was found in the meta-analysis with an I 2 value ranging from 80.6-99.6%. A random-effects meta-analysis was applied for all end points. Each clinical trial stratified results by hyperkalemia severity and dosing; therefore, these were considered separate treatment groups in the meta-analysis. For patiromer, a significant -0.70 mEq/L (95% confidence interval [CI] -0.48 to -0.91 mEq/L) change was noted in potassium at 4 weeks. At day 3 of patiromer treatment, potassium change was -0.36 mEq/L (range of standard deviation 0.07-0.30). The primary end point for ZS-9-change in potassium at 48 hours-was -0.67 mEq/L (95% CI -0.45 to -0.89 mEq/L). By 1 hour after ZS-9 administration, change in potassium was -0.17 mEq/L (95% CI -0.05 to -0.30). Analysis of pooled adverse effects from these trials indicates that patiromer was associated with more gastrointestinal upset (7.6% constipation, 4.5% diarrhea) and electrolyte depletion (7.1% hypomagnesemia), whereas ZS-9 was associated with the adverse effects of urinary tract infections (1.1%) and edema (0.9%). Patiromer and ZS-9 represent significant pharmacologic advancements in the treatment of hyperkalemia. Both agents exhibited statistically and clinically significant reductions in potassium for the primary end point of this meta-analysis. Given the adverse effect profile and the observed time-dependent effects, ZS-9 may play more of a role in treating acute hyperkalemia. © 2017 Pharmacotherapy Publications, Inc.

  17. Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Patiromer and Sodium Zirconium Cyclosilicate: A New Armamentarium for the Treatment of Hyperkalemia

    PubMed Central

    Meaney, Calvin J.; Beccari, Mario V.; Yang, Yang; Zhao, Jiwei

    2017-01-01

    Objective To compare and contrast the efficacy and safety of patiromer and sodium zirconium cyclosilicate (ZS-9) in the treatment of hyperkalemia. Design A systematic review and meta-analysis of phase II and III clinical trial data was completed. Patients or Participants Eight studies (2 phase II and 4 phase III trials with 2 subgroup analyses) were included in the qualitative analysis whereas six studies (2 phase II and 4 phase III trials) were included in the meta-analysis. Measurements and Results There was significant heterogeneity in the meta-analysis with an I2 value ranging from 80.6–99.6%. A random-effects meta-analysis was applied for all endpoints. Each clinical trial stratified results by hyperkalemia severity and dosing; therefore, these were considered separate treatment groups in the meta-analysis. For patiromer, there was a significant −0.70mEq/L (95% confidence interval [CI] −0.48 to −0.91mEq/L) change in potassium at 4 weeks. At day 3 of patiromer treatment, potassium change was −0.36mEq/L (range of standard deviation: 0.07 to 0.30). The primary endpoint for ZS-9-- change in potassium at 48 hours-- was −0.67mEq/L (95% CI −0.45 to −0.89mEq/L). By 1 hour after ZS-9 administration, change in potassium was −0.17mEq/L (95% CI −0.05 to −0.30). Analysis of pooled adverse effects from these trials indicates that patiromer was associated with more gastrointestinal upset (7.6% constipation, 4.5% diarrhea) and electrolyte depletion (7.1% hypomagnesemia), whereas ZS-9 was associated with adverse effects of urinary tract infections (1.1%) and edema (0.9%). Conclusion Patiromer and ZS-9 represent significant pharmacologic advancements in the treatment of hyperkalemia. Both agents exhibited statistically and clinically significant reductions in potassium for the primary endpoint of this meta-analysis. Given the adverse effect profile and the observed time dependent effects, ZS-9 may play more of a role in treating acute hyperkalemia. PMID:28122118

  18. Improving Quality of Seal Leak Test Product using Six Sigma

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Luthfi Malik, Abdullah; Akbar, Muhammad; Irianto, Dradjad

    2016-02-01

    Seal leak test part is a polyurethane material-based product. Based on past data, defect level of this product was 8%, higher than the target of 5%. Quality improvement effort was done using six sigma method that included phases of define, measure, analyse, improve, and control. In the design phase, a Delphi method was used to identify factors that were critical to quality. In the measure phase, stability and process capability was measured. Fault tree analysis (FTA) and failure mode and effect analysis (FMEA) were used in the next phase to analize the root cause and to determine the priority issues. Improve phase was done by compiling, selecting, and designing alternative repair. Some improvement efforts were identified, i.e. (i) making a checklist for maintenance schedules, (ii) making written reminder form, (iii) modifying the SOP more detail, and (iv) performing a major service to the vacuum machine. To ensure the continuity of improvement efforts, some control activities were executed, i.e. (i) controlling, monitoring, documenting, and setting target frequently, (ii) implementing reward and punishment system, (iii) adding cleaning tool, and (iv) building six sigma organizational structure.

  19. Normative data on phases of the Valsalva maneuver

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Denq, J. C.; O'Brien, P. C.; Low, P. A.

    1998-01-01

    The phases of the Valsalva maneuver have well-known pathophysiology, and are used in the evaluation of adrenergic function. Because scant normative data is available, we have evaluated normative data for the Valsalva maneuver in control subjects. The patient, supine, performed the Valsalva maneuver maintaining an expiratory pressure of 40 mm Hg for 15 seconds. We reviewed 188 Valsalva maneuver recordings of normal control subjects, and recordings were excluded if two reproducible recordings were not obtained, or if expiratory pressure was <30 mm Hg or < 10 seconds. One hundred and three recordings were acceptable for analysis; 47 female and 56 male subjects, age in years (mean +/- SD) was 52.2+/-17.3 and 44.8+/-17.3, respectively. The association of expiratory pressure with age (P < 0.001) and gender ( P < 0.001) was complex, expressed as a parabola in both men and women, but resulted in phases I and III that were not significantly different. An increase in age resulted in a progressively more negative phase II_E (P < 0.05) and attenuation of phase II_L (P < 0.01). An increase in supine blood pressure resulted in a significantly more negative phase II_E (P < 0.001) and a lower phase IV. Phase IV is unaffected by age and gender.

  20. Targeting delta opioid receptors for pain treatment: drugs in phase I and II clinical development.

    PubMed

    Spahn, Viola; Stein, Christoph

    2017-02-01

    Opioids are widely used to treat severe pain. Most clinically used opioids activate µ-opioid receptors (MOR). Their ligands induce potent analgesia but also adverse effects. The δ-opioid receptor (DOR) is another member of the opioid receptor family that has been under intense investigation with the aim to avoid MOR-induced side effects. Areas covered: This article reviews DOR ligands which appeared to be promising after preclinical evaluation. A literature search using Pubmed, Cochrane library, ClinicalTrials.gov, EudraCT, AdisInsight database and EBSCO Online Library was conducted. Out of numerous newly synthesized molecules, only few candidates entered phase I and/or II clinical investigation. The publicly accessible results are presented here. Expert opinion: Many compounds showed potent DOR-specific pain inhibition in preclinical studies. ADL5859 and ADL5747 entered clinical trials and successfully passed phase I. However, in phase II studies the primary endpoint (pain reduction) was not met and further investigation was terminated. A third compound, NP2, is in phase II clinical evaluation and results are pending. These findings suggest a potential of DOR ligands according to preclinical studies. Further clinical research and secondary analysis of unpublished data is needed to identify molecules which are useful in humans.

  1. Combination of rice husk and coconut shell activated adsorbent to adsorb Pb(II) ionic metal and it’s analysis using solid-phase spectrophotometry (sps)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rohmah, D. N.; Saputro, S.; Masykuri, M.; Mahardiani, L.

    2018-03-01

    The purpose of this research was to know the effect and determine the mass comparation which most effective combination between rice husk and coconut shell activated adsorbent to adsorb Pb (II) ion using SPS method. This research used experimental method. Technique to collecting this datas of this research is carried out by several stages, which are: (1) carbonization of rice husk and coconut shell adsorbent using muffle furnace at a temperature of 350°C for an hour; (2) activation of the rice husk and coconut shell adsorbent using NaOH 1N and ZnCl2 15% activator; (3) contacting the adsorbent of rice husk and coconut shell activated adsorbent with liquid waste simulation of Pb(II) using variation comparison of rice husk and coconut shell, 1:0; 0:1; 1:1; 2:1; 1:2; (4) analysis of Pb(II) using Solid-Phase Spectrophotometry (SPS); (5) characterization of combination rice husk and coconut shell activated adsorbent using FTIR. The result of this research show that the combined effect of combination rice husk and coconut shell activated adsorbent can increase the ability of the adsorbent to absorb Pb(II) ion then the optimum adsorbent mass ratio required for absorbing 20 mL of Pb(II) ion with a concentration of 49.99 µg/L is a ratio of 2:1 with the absorption level of 97,06%Solid-Phase Spectrophotometry (SPS) is an effective method in the level of µg/L, be marked with the Limit of Detection (LOD) of 0.03 µg/L.

  2. Effect of humic acid on nickel(II) sorption to Ca-montmorillonite by batch and EXAFS techniques study.

    PubMed

    Hu, Jun; Tan, Xiaoli; Ren, Xuemei; Wang, Xiangke

    2012-09-21

    The influence of humic acid (HA) on Ni(II) sorption to Ca-montmorillonite was examined by using a combination of batch sorption experiments and extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectroscopy technique. The sorption of Ni(II) on HA-montmorillonite hybrids is strongly dependent on pH and temperature. At low pH, the sorption of Ni(II) is mainly dominated by Ni-HA-montmorillonite and outer-sphere surface complexation. The EXAFS results indicate that the first coordination shell of Ni(II) consists of ∼6 O atoms at the interatomic distances of ∼2.04 Å in an octahedral structure. At high pH, binary Ni-montmorillonite surface complexation is the dominant sorption mechanism. EXAFS analysis indicates the formation of mononuclear complexes located at the edges of Ca-montmorillonite platelets at pH 7.5, while a Ni-Al layered double hydroxide (LDH) phase at the Ca-montmorillonite surface formed with pH 8.5. At pH 10.0, the dissolved HA-Ni(II) complexation inhibits the precipitation of Ni hydroxide, and Ni-Al LDH phase forms. The rise of temperature increases the sorption capacity of Ni(II), and promotes Ni-Al LDH phase formation and the growth of crystallites. The results are important to evaluate the physicochemical behavior of Ni(II) in the natural environment.

  3. Decision-theoretic designs for a series of trials with correlated treatment effects using the Sarmanov multivariate beta-binomial distribution.

    PubMed

    Hee, Siew Wan; Parsons, Nicholas; Stallard, Nigel

    2018-03-01

    The motivation for the work in this article is the setting in which a number of treatments are available for evaluation in phase II clinical trials and where it may be infeasible to try them concurrently because the intended population is small. This paper introduces an extension of previous work on decision-theoretic designs for a series of phase II trials. The program encompasses a series of sequential phase II trials with interim decision making and a single two-arm phase III trial. The design is based on a hybrid approach where the final analysis of the phase III data is based on a classical frequentist hypothesis test, whereas the trials are designed using a Bayesian decision-theoretic approach in which the unknown treatment effect is assumed to follow a known prior distribution. In addition, as treatments are intended for the same population it is not unrealistic to consider treatment effects to be correlated. Thus, the prior distribution will reflect this. Data from a randomized trial of severe arthritis of the hip are used to test the application of the design. We show that the design on average requires fewer patients in phase II than when the correlation is ignored. Correspondingly, the time required to recommend an efficacious treatment for phase III is quicker. © 2017 The Author. Biometrical Journal published by WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  4. Analysis of SBIR phase I and phase II review results at the National Institutes of Health.

    PubMed

    Vener, K J; Calkins, B M

    1991-09-01

    A cohort of phase I and phase II summary statements for the SBIR grant applications was evaluated to determine the strengths and weaknesses in approved and disapproved applications. An analysis of outcome variables (disapproval or unfunded status) was examined with respect to exposure variables (strengths or shortcomings). Logistic regression models were developed for comparisons to measure the predictive value of shortcomings and strengths to the outcomes. Disapproved phase I results were compared with an earlier 1985 study. Although the magnitude of the frequencies of shortcomings was greater in the present study, the relative rankings within shortcoming class were more alike than different. Also, the frequencies of shortcomings were, with one exception, not significantly different in the two studies. Differences in the summary statement review may have accounted for some differences observed between the 1985 data and results of the present study. Comparisons of Approved/Disapproved and Approved-Unfunded/Funded yielded the following observations. For phase I applicants, a lack of a clearly stated, testable hypothesis, a poorly qualified or described investigative team, and inadequate methodological approaches contributed significantly (in that order) to a rating of disapproval. A critical flaw for phase II proposals was failure to accomplish objectives of the phase I study. Methodological issues also dominate the distinctions in both comparison groups. A clear result of the data presented here and that published previously is that SBIR applicants need continuing assistance to improve the chances of their success. These results should serve as a guide to assist NIH staff as they provide information to prospective applicants focusing on key elements of the application. A continuing review of the SBIR program would be helpful to evaluate the quality of the submitted science.

  5. Impact of Satellite Aeronautical Channel on Modem Specifications : Phase II. Oceanic Multipath Measurements and Modem Concepts

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1975-01-01

    The report completes the analysis initiated in the Phase I report of the effects of oceanic multipath on ranging and data modems for satellite air traffic control systems. The interaction between multipath antenna and apparent measured multipath is d...

  6. Impact of Satellite Aeronautical Channel on Modem Specifications : Phase II. Oceanic Multipath Measurements and Modem Concepts

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1975-01-01

    This report completes the analysis inititaed in the Phase I report of the effects of oceanic multipath on ranging and data modems for satellite air traffic control systems. The interaction between multipath antenna and apparent measured multipath is ...

  7. Family and Community Studies (FACS) Fourth Interim Report, Phase I and Activities and Timelines for Phase II.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Espinoza, Renato; And Others

    Discussed in this paper is a preliminary analysis of findings from data gathered during the first phase of a research project exploring the processes whereby the nature of the mother's occupation affects her family life, especially (1) her partnership in decisions about housework, child care and education and (2) the negotiation of the allocation…

  8. Meta-Analysis of Human Factors Engineering Studies Comparing Individual Differences, Practice Effects and Equipment Design Variations.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1985-02-21

    Approvoid foT public 90Ieleol, 2* . tJni7nited " - . - o . - ’--. * . -... . 1 UNCLASSIFIED S, E CURITY CLASSIFICATION OF THIS PAGE-" REPORT DOCUMENTATION...ACCESSION NO. 11. TITLE (Include Security Classification) . Veta -Analysis of Human Factors Engineering Studies Comparing Individual Differences, Practice...Background C Opportunity D Significance E History III. PHASE I FINAL REPORT A Literature Review B Formal Analysis C Results D Implications for Phase II IV

  9. Speciation analysis of Mn(II)/Mn(VII) using Fe3O4@ionic liquids-β-cyclodextrin polymer magnetic solid phase extraction coupled with ICP-OES.

    PubMed

    Chen, Songqing; Qin, Xingxiu; Gu, Weixi; Zhu, Xiashi

    2016-12-01

    Ionic liquids-β-cyclodextrin polymer (ILs-β-CDCP) was attached on Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles to prepare magnetic solid phase extraction agent (Fe 3 O 4 @ILs-β-CDCP). The properties and morphology of Fe 3 O 4 @ILs-β-CDCP were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction(XRD), size distribution and magnetic analysis. A new method of magnetic solid phase extraction (MSPE) coupled to ICP-OES for the speciation of Mn(II)/Mn(VII) in water samples was established. The results showed that Mn(VII) and total manganese [Mn(II)+Mn(VII)] were quantitatively extracted after adjusting aqueous sample solution to pH 6.0 and 10.0, respectively. Mn(II) was calculated by subtraction of Mn(VII) from total manganese. Fe 3 O 4 @ILs-β-CDCP showed a higher adsorption capacity toward Mn(II) and Mn(VII). Several factors, such as the pH value, extraction temperature and sample volume, were optimized to achieve the best extraction efficiency. Moreover, the adsorption ability of Fe 3 O 4 @ILs-β-CDCP would not be significantly lower after reusing of 10 times. The accuracy of the developed method was confirmed by analyzing certified reference materials (GSB 07-1189-2000), and by spiking spring water, city water and lake water samples. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  10. Impact of etanercept tapering on work productivity in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis: results from the PRIZE study

    PubMed Central

    Zhang, Wei; Bansback, Nick; Sun, Huiying; Pedersen, Ronald; Kotak, Sameer; Anis, Aslam H

    2016-01-01

    Objective To assess changes in work productivity in patients who have achieved response using etanercept (ETN) 50 mg+methotrexate (MTX) (phase I) are randomised to ETN 25 mg+MTX versus MTX versus placebo (phase II) and then withdrawn from treatment (phase III). Methods Patients included in the analysis were in employment entering phase II of the PRIZE trial and had one or more follow-ups. Phase II was a 39-week, randomised and double-blind comparison of the 3 dose-reduction treatments. Phase III was a 26-week observational study where treatment was withdrawn. The Valuation of Lost Productivity was completed approximately every 13 weeks to estimate productivity impacts from a societal perspective. Results A total of 120 participants were included in our analyses. During phase II, ETN25+MTX or MTX improved paid work productivity by over 100 hours compared with placebo, amounting to a gain of €1752 or €1503, respectively. ETN25+MTX compared with placebo gains €1862 in total paid/unpaid productivity. At week 52, the 3-month paid work productivity loss was 21.8, 12.8 and 14.0 hours, respectively. The productivity loss increased at week 64 from week 52, dropped at week 76 for all treatment groups and then continued rising after week 76 for the placebo group (71.9 hours at week 91) but not for the other 2 groups (21.9 hours for ETX25+MTX and 27.6 hours for MTX). Conclusions The work productivity gain in phase I as a result of ETN50+MTX was marginally lost in the dose-reduction treatment groups, ETN25+MTX and MTX, but substantially lost in the placebo group during phase II. Trial registration number NCT00913458; Results. PMID:27486524

  11. Measurements of canine aqueous humor inflammatory mediators and the effect of carprofen following anterior chamber paracentesis.

    PubMed

    Pinard, Chantale L; Gauvin, Dominique; Moreau, Maxim; Martel-Pelletier, Johanne; Pelletier, Jean-Pierre; Troncy, Eric

    2011-09-01

    Phase I: To evaluate levels of prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2) ), nitrites and nitrates (NO(x) ), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and expression of inducible cyclo-oxygenase (COX-2), nitric oxide synthase (NOS-2), and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-3 and -9) in canine aqueous humor following repeated anterior chamber paracenteses (ACP). Phase II: to evaluate the effect of carprofen on PGE(2) , NO(x) , and TNF-α in canine aqueous humor following ACP. Four beagles in phase I and 8 beagles in phase II. Phase I: ACP was performed at time (T) 0, 4 and 8 h. Phase II: A randomized, placebo-controlled cross-over design with four dogs per group where carprofen was given 4.4 mg/kg/day on day (D) 1, 2 and 3. ACP was performed at T0 and T1.5 on D3. Statistical analysis was performed with repeated measures anova and post hoc Tukey-Kramer multiple-comparison procedure. In phase II, TNF-α level was analyzed with a Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Phase I: PGE(2) significantly increased (P < 0.0001) to plateau at T4. NO(X) was decreased at T4 (P < 0.06), but increased at T8 (P < 0.0001). COX-2 showed detectable expression only at T8. TNF-α, NOS-2, MMP-3 and -9 were undetectable at all time points. Phase II: At T1.5, PGE(2) was significantly elevated in both groups but was lower in the carprofen group (P = 0.037). NO(x) and TNF-α did not statistically increase in either group. Following ACP, significant increases in PGE(2) levels confirmed inflammation characterized by a rise of COX-2. The NO(x) pathway took longer to induce as compared with PGE(2) . Carprofen decreased PGE(2) levels and could help control intraocular inflammation. © 2011 American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists.

  12. Analysis of the Japanese subgroup in LEOPOLD II: a phase 2/3 study of BAY 81-8973, a new recombinant factor VIII product.

    PubMed

    Fujii, Teruhisa; Hanabusa, Hideji; Shima, Midori; Morinaga, Takeshi; Fukutake, Katsuyuki

    2017-03-01

    BAY 81-8973, a new full length recombinant FVIII product, has been developed for prophylaxis and on-demand therapy in patients with hemophilia A. LEOPOLD II was a phase 2/3 study comparing prophylaxis versus on-demand treatment with BAY 81-8973. The analysis herein evaluated the clinical profile in Japanese subjects enrolled in LEOPOLD II. The LEOPOLD II was an open-label randomized crossover study. Our analysis evaluated the efficacy using the annualized bleeding rate, safety, and pharmacokinetics in Japanese subjects with severe hemophilia A enrolled in LEOPOLD II. The median annualized bleeding rate was 59.9/year in the on-demand group and 1.9/year in the prophylaxis group for Japanese subjects. There were no study drug-related adverse events in the Japanese subjects. None of the subjects developed FVIII inhibitors. There were no apparent clinical differences in efficacy, safety, and pharmacokinetics between the Japanese and the non-Japanese subjects. Data for the Japanese subjects showed annualized bleeding rates to be remarkably lower in the prophylaxis group compared to the on-demand group and that BAY 81-8973 exhibited a good safety profile and tolerability. These results were similar for the non-Japanese subjects. The results support adoption of BAY 81-8973 for treatment of Japanese subjects with severe hemophilia A.

  13. Planning level assessment of greenhouse gas emissions for alternative transportation construction projects : carbon footprint estimator, phase II, volume I - GASCAP model.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2014-03-01

    The GASCAP model was developed to provide a software tool for analysis of the life-cycle GHG : emissions associated with the construction and maintenance of transportation projects. This phase : of development included techniques for estimating emiss...

  14. Actuated coordinated signalized system : Phase I oversaturated conditions : Phase II cycle-by-cycle analysis

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2001-11-01

    The role of the vehicle is more important today than ever before in history, and its increased usage has led to congestion, not only in urban metropolitan areas, but also in rural small and mid-size cities. In most areas, the surface transportation n...

  15. Chitosan film loaded with silver nanoparticles-sorbent for solid phase extraction of Al(III), Cd(II), Cu(II), Co(II), Fe(III), Ni(II), Pb(II) and Zn(II).

    PubMed

    Djerahov, Lubomir; Vasileva, Penka; Karadjova, Irina; Kurakalva, Rama Mohan; Aradhi, Keshav Krishna

    2016-08-20

    The present study describes the ecofriendly method for the preparation of chitosan film loaded with silver nanoparticles (CS-AgNPs) and application of this film as efficient sorbent for separation and enrichment of Al(III), Cd(II), Cu(II), Co(II), Fe(III), Ni(II), Pb(II) and Zn(II). The stable CS-AgNPs colloid was prepared by dispersing the AgNPs sol in chitosan solution at appropriate ratio and further used to obtain a cast film with very good stability under storage and good mechanical strength for easy handling in aqueous medium. The incorporation of AgNPs in the structure of CS film and interaction between the polymer matrix and nanoparticles were confirmed by UV-vis and FTIR spectroscopy. The homogeneously embedded AgNPs (average diameter 29nm, TEM analysis) were clearly observed throughout the film by SEM. The CS-AgNPs nanocomposite film shows high sorption activity toward trace metals under optimized chemical conditions. The results suggest that the CS-AgNPs nanocomposite film can be feasibly used as a novel sorbent material for solid-phase extraction of metal pollutants from surface waters. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  16. Analysis of Class II patients, successfully treated with the straight-wire and Forsus appliances, based on cervical vertebral maturation status.

    PubMed

    Servello, David F; Fallis, Drew W; Alvetro, Lisa

    2015-01-01

    To assess skeletal and dental changes in patients successfully treated with the Forsus appliance based on cervical vertebral maturation status. Forty-seven Class II patients, successfully treated with the Forsus appliance, were divided into peak and postpeak growth groups determined immediately prior to Forsus placement. The mean (SD) ages of the peak and postpeak groups were 13.4 (1.0) and 14.1 (1.3) years, respectively. Superimpositions of initial, Forsus placement, Forsus removal, and final cephalometric radiographs were completed, allowing the measurement of changes during three treatment phases. There were no significant differences between groups during treatment phase 1 (alignment/leveling), with both groups demonstrating a worsening of the Class II molar relationship. However, during treatment phase 2 (Class II correction), patients within the peak group demonstrated significantly higher mean apical base, mandibular and molar changes, and an increased rate of change compared with those in the postpeak group. No significant differences were observed during treatment phase 3 (detail/finishing). Following an initial worsening of the Class II molar relationship as a result of straight-wire appliance effects, Forsus appliance treatment initiated during cervical vertebral maturation status (CS) 3-4 elicits more effective and efficient correction of Class II molar relationships than when initiated during CS 5-6. Data support that these effects are due mainly to maxillary skeletal and dentoalveolar restraint during a period of more rapid mandibular growth.

  17. Work Domain Analysis of a Predecessor Sodium-cooled Reactor as Baseline for AdvSMR Operational Concepts

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Ronald Farris; David Gertman; Jacques Hugo

    This report presents the results of the Work Domain Analysis for the Experimental Breeder Reactor (EBR-II). This is part of the phase of the research designed to incorporate Cognitive Work Analysis in the development of a framework for the formalization of an Operational Concept (OpsCon) for Advanced Small Modular Reactors (AdvSMRs). For a new AdvSMR design, information obtained through Cognitive Work Analysis, combined with human performance criteria, can and should be used in during the operational phase of a plant to assess the crew performance aspects associated with identified AdvSMR operational concepts. The main objective of this phase was tomore » develop an analytical and descriptive framework that will help systems and human factors engineers to understand the design and operational requirements of the emerging generation of small, advanced, multi-modular reactors. Using EBR-II as a predecessor to emerging sodium-cooled reactor designs required the application of a method suitable to the structured and systematic analysis of the plant to assist in identifying key features of the work associated with it and to clarify the operational and other constraints. The analysis included the identification and description of operating scenarios that were considered characteristic of this type of nuclear power plant. This is an invaluable aspect of Operational Concept development since it typically reveals aspects of future plant configurations that will have an impact on operations. These include, for example, the effect of core design, different coolants, reactor-to-power conversion unit ratios, modular plant layout, modular versus central control rooms, plant siting, and many more. Multi-modular plants in particular are expected to have a significant impact on overall OpsCon in general, and human performance in particular. To support unconventional modes of operation, the modern control room of a multi-module plant would typically require advanced HSIs that would provide sophisticated operational information visualization, coupled with adaptive automation schemes and operator support systems to reduce complexity. These all have to be mapped at some point to human performance requirements. The EBR-II results will be used as a baseline that will be extrapolated in the extended Cognitive Work Analysis phase to the analysis of a selected advanced sodium-cooled SMR design as a way to establish non-conventional operational concepts. The Work Domain Analysis results achieved during this phase have not only established an organizing and analytical framework for describing existing sociotechnical systems, but have also indicated that the method is particularly suited to the analysis of prospective and immature designs. The results of the EBR-II Work Domain Analysis have indicated that the methodology is scientifically sound and generalizable to any operating environment.« less

  18. Job stressors in naval personnel serving on ships and in personnel serving ashore over a twelve month period.

    PubMed

    Bridger, R S; Brasher, K; Dew, A; Kilminster, S

    2011-07-01

    Sixty one percent of respondents to a questionnaire survey of occupational stress (Phase I) returned follow-up questionnaires twelve months later (Phase II). The Phase I questionnaire measured psychological strain resulting from exposure to occupational stressors, and measured the presence of stress buffers and demographic, psychological and lifestyle-related confounding factors, including age, rank and gender, mood state and the occurrence of stressful life events outside of work. The prevalence of strain was 31% at Phase I and 33% at Phase II. Fifty percent of personnel had no strain on either occasion, 15% had strain on both occasions and the remainder had strain on one occasion. The main stressor associated with strain at Phase I was an inability to disengage from work and this stressor accounted for a greater proportion of the variance in strain in personnel serving on ships than those serving ashore. The twelve-month follow-up questionnaire (Phase II) re-assessed psychological strain. A multiple linear regression analysis was conducted to identify factors measured at Phase I that predicted strain at Phase II in previously strain-free individuals. A lack of autonomy and control and dissatisfaction with living conditions predicted strain twelve months later in those serving on ships. Of the living conditions assessed, lack of privacy was the most strongly associated with strain twelve months later in those serving on ships. These stressors were not associated with strain twelve months later in those serving ashore. The findings suggest that improvements to the design of the environment on ships may have benefits for the psychological health of personnel. Crown Copyright © 2010. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  19. Phase I/II study of sorafenib in combination with temsirolimus for recurrent glioblastoma or gliosarcoma: North American Brain Tumor Consortium study 05-02

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Eudocia Q.; Kuhn, John; Lamborn, Kathleen R.; Abrey, Lauren; DeAngelis, Lisa M.; Lieberman, Frank; Robins, H. Ian; Chang, Susan M.; Yung, W. K. Alfred; Drappatz, Jan; Mehta, Minesh P.; Levin, Victor A.; Aldape, Kenneth; Dancey, Janet E.; Wright, John J.; Prados, Michael D.; Cloughesy, Timothy F.; Gilbert, Mark R.; Wen, Patrick Y.

    2012-01-01

    The activity of single-agent targeted molecular therapies in glioblastoma has been limited to date. The North American Brain Tumor Consortium examined the safety, pharmacokinetics, and efficacy of combination therapy with sorafenib, a small molecule inhibitor of Raf, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2, and platelet-derived growth factor receptor–β, and temsirolimus (CCI-779), an inhibitor of mammalian target of rapamycin. This was a phase I/II study. The phase I component used a standard 3 × 3 dose escalation scheme to determine the safety and tolerability of this combination therapy. The phase II component used a 2-stage design; the primary endpoint was 6-month progression-free survival (PFS6) rate. Thirteen patients enrolled in the phase I component. The maximum tolerated dosage (MTD) for combination therapy was sorafenib 800 mg daily and temsirolimus 25 mg once weekly. At the MTD, grade 3 thrombocytopenia was the dose-limiting toxicity. Eighteen patients were treated in the phase II component. At interim analysis, the study was terminated and did not proceed to the second stage. No patients remained progression free at 6 months. Median PFS was 8 weeks. The toxicity of this combination therapy resulted in a maximum tolerated dose of temsirolimus that was only one-tenth of the single-agent dose. Minimal activity in recurrent glioblastoma multiforme was seen at the MTD of the 2 combined agents. PMID:23099651

  20. Identification of the HSPB4/TLR2/NF-κB axis in macrophage as a therapeutic target for sterile inflammation of the cornea

    PubMed Central

    Oh, Joo Youn; Choi, Hosoon; Lee, Ryang Hwa; Roddy, Gavin W; Ylöstalo, Joni H; Wawrousek, Eric; Prockop, Darwin J

    2012-01-01

    Sterile inflammation underlies many diseases of the cornea including serious chemical burns and the common dry eye syndrome. In search for therapeutic targets for corneal inflammation, we defined the kinetics of neutrophil infiltration in a model of sterile injury to the cornea and identified molecular and cellular mechanisms triggering inflammatory responses. Neutrophil infiltration occurred in two phases: a small initial phase (Phase I) that began within 15 min after injury, and a larger second phase (Phase II) that peaked at 24–48 h. Temporal analysis suggested that the neuropeptide secretoneurin initiated Phase I without involvement of resident macrophages. Phase II was initiated by the small heat shock protein HSPB4 that was released from injured keratocytes and that activated resident macrophages via the TLR2/NF-κB pathway. The Phase II inflammation was responsible for vision-threatening opacity and was markedly suppressed by different means of inhibition of the HSPB4/TLR2/NF-κB axis: in mice lacking HSPB4 or TLR2, by antibodies to HSPB4 or by TNF-α stimulated gene/protein 6 that CD44-dependently inhibits the TLR2/NF-κB pathway. Therefore, our data identified the HSPB4/TLR2/NF-κB axis in macrophages as an effective target for therapy of corneal inflammation. PMID:22359280

  1. Novel therapies for resistant focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FONT) phase II clinical trial: study design.

    PubMed

    Trachtman, Howard; Vento, Suzanne; Gipson, Debbie; Wickman, Larysa; Gassman, Jennifer; Joy, Melanie; Savin, Virginia; Somers, Michael; Pinsk, Maury; Greene, Tom

    2011-02-10

    The lack of adequate randomized clinical trials (RCT) has hindered identification of new therapies that are safe and effective for patients with primary focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), especially in patients who fail to respond to corticosteroids and immunosuppressive therapies. Recent basic science advances have led to development of alternative treatments that specifically target aberrant pathways of fibrosis which are relevant to disease progression in FSGS. There is a need for a flexible Phase II study design which will test such novel antifibrotic strategies in order to identify agents suitable for phase III testing. The Novel Therapies for Resistant Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FONT) project is a multicenter Phase I/II RCT designed to investigate the potential efficacy of novel therapies for resistant FSGS. Adalimumab and galactose will be evaluated against conservative therapy consisting of the combination of lisinopril, losartan and atorvastatin. The sample size is defined to assure that if one of the treatments has a superior response rate compared to that of the other treatments, it will be selected with high probability for further evaluation. Comparison of primary and secondary endpoints in each study arm will enable a choice to be made of which treatments are worthy of further study in future Phase III RCT. This report highlights the key features of the FONT II RCT including the two-step outcome analysis that will expedite achievement of the study objectives. The proposed phase II study design will help to identify promising agents for further testing while excluding ineffective agents. This staged approach can help to prevent large expenditures on unworthy therapeutic agents in the management of serious but rare kidney diseases.

  2. Exploring the statistical and clinical impact of two interim analyses on the Phase II design with option for direct assignment.

    PubMed

    An, Ming-Wen; Mandrekar, Sumithra J; Edelman, Martin J; Sargent, Daniel J

    2014-07-01

    The primary goal of Phase II clinical trials is to understand better a treatment's safety and efficacy to inform a Phase III go/no-go decision. Many Phase II designs have been proposed, incorporating randomization, interim analyses, adaptation, and patient selection. The Phase II design with an option for direct assignment (i.e. stop randomization and assign all patients to the experimental arm based on a single interim analysis (IA) at 50% accrual) was recently proposed [An et al., 2012]. We discuss this design in the context of existing designs, and extend it from a single-IA to a two-IA design. We compared the statistical properties and clinical relevance of the direct assignment design with two IA (DAD-2) versus a balanced randomized design with two IA (BRD-2) and a direct assignment design with one IA (DAD-1), over a range of response rate ratios (2.0-3.0). The DAD-2 has minimal loss in power (<2.2%) and minimal increase in T1ER (<1.6%) compared to a BRD-2. As many as 80% more patients were treated with experimental vs. control in the DAD-2 than with the BRD-2 (experimental vs. control ratio: 1.8 vs. 1.0), and as many as 64% more in the DAD-2 than with the DAD-1 (1.8 vs. 1.1). We illustrate the DAD-2 using a case study in lung cancer. In the spectrum of Phase II designs, the direct assignment design, especially with two IA, provides a middle ground with desirable statistical properties and likely appeal to both clinicians and patients. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  3. S-1 chemotherapy and intensity-modulated radiotherapy after D1/D2 lymph node dissection in patients with node-positive gastric cancer: a phase I/II study.

    PubMed

    Wang, X; Zhao, D B; Yang, L; Chi, Y; Tang, Y; Li, N; Wang, S L; Song, Y W; Liu, Y P; Liu, W Y; Ren, H; Zhang, T; Wang, J Y; Chen, X S; Fang, H; Wang, W H; Li, Y X; Jin, J

    2018-02-06

    This phase I/II clinical trial investigated S-1 administered with intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) as adjuvant therapy for node-positive gastric cancer. Patients had undergone radical resection and D1/D2 lymph node dissection. In phase I, patients received adjuvant chemoradiotherapy of IMRT (45 Gy in 25 fractions) with concurrent S-1 administered on a dose-escalation schedule to determine the recommended dose (RD). In phase II, the safety and efficacy of the RD of S-1 combined with IMRT were assessed. We consecutively enrolled 73 patients (56 men; median age, 53 years; range, 29-73 years) and the phase I portion of the study included 27 patients. The RD of S-1 administered concomitantly with IMRT was 80 mg m -2  day -1 orally, twice daily. The phase II analysis included 52 patients (46 new patients plus 6 from phase I). 8 patients (15.4%) developed grade 3 or 4 toxicities. There were 21 recurrence events and 15 deaths (1 bowel obstruction, 14 gastric cancer). Three-year disease-free survival and overall survival were 62.2% (95% confidence interval (CI), 48.5-75.9) and 70.0% (95% CI, 56.3-83.7), respectively. The median time to recurrence was 17.5 months (range, 3.8-42.0). The median time from recurrence to death was 7.0 months (range, 1.5-28.7). S-1 combined with IMRT adjuvant chemoradiotherapy is safe and efficacious for advanced gastric cancer.

  4. Improvement of the GERDA Ge Detectors Energy Resolution by an Optimized Digital Signal Processing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Benato, G.; D'Andrea, V.; Cattadori, C.; Riboldi, S.

    GERDA is a new generation experiment searching for neutrinoless double beta decay of 76Ge, operating at INFN Gran Sasso Laboratories (LNGS) since 2010. Coaxial and Broad Energy Germanium (BEGe) Detectors have been operated in liquid argon (LAr) in GERDA Phase I. In the framework of the second GERDA experimental phase, both the contacting technique, the connection to and the location of the front end readout devices are novel compared to those previously adopted, and several tests have been performed. In this work, starting from considerations on the energy scale stability of the GERDA Phase I calibrations and physics data sets, an optimized pulse filtering method has been developed and applied to the Phase II pilot tests data sets, and to few GERDA Phase I data sets. In this contribution the detector performances in term of energy resolution and time stability are here presented. The improvement of the energy resolution, compared to standard Gaussian shaping adopted for Phase I data analysis, is discussed and related to the optimized noise filtering capability. The result is an energy resolution better than 0.1% at 2.6 MeV for the BEGe detectors operated in the Phase II pilot tests and an improvement of the energy resolution in LAr of about 8% achieved on the GERDA Phase I calibration runs, compared to previous analysis algorithms.

  5. 47 CFR 54.309 - Connect America Fund Phase II Public Interest Obligations.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 3 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Connect America Fund Phase II Public Interest Obligations. 54.309 Section 54.309 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (CONTINUED) COMMON... Connect America Fund Phase II Public Interest Obligations. (a) A price cap carrier electing Phase II model...

  6. Influence of Motivating Operations and Discriminative Stimuli on Challenging Behavior Maintained by Positive Reinforcement

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Edrisinha, Chaturi; O'Reilly, Mark; Sigafoos, Jeff; Lancioni, Giulio; Choi, Ha Young

    2011-01-01

    We examined the effects of an establishing operation (EO) and abolishing operation (AO) on stimulus control of challenging behavior. Two participants with developmental disabilities and challenging behavior participated. In Phase I, a functional analysis was conducted to identify the consequences maintaining challenging behavior. In Phase II, a…

  7. A Multilevel Analysis of Phase II of the Louisiana School Effectiveness Study.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kennedy, Eugene; And Others

    This paper presents findings of a study that used conventional modeling strategies (student- and school-level) and a new multilevel modeling strategy, Hierarchical Linear Modeling, to investigate school effects on student-achievement outcomes for data collected as part of Phase 2 of the Louisiana School Effectiveness Study. The purpose was to…

  8. Establishing a Spinal Injury Criterion for Military Seats

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1997-01-01

    Table represents 54 Trials (18 [phase I] + 36 [phase II]); "Combined Effects" of Delta V, Gpk & ATD Size illM-l A General Linear Model (GLM) analysis...5thpercentilemale AID would not have compliedwith the tolerance criterion under the higher impulse severity levels (i.e., 20 and 30 Gpk ). Similarly, the

  9. 23 CFR 230.409 - Contract compliance review procedures.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... (Actions R-1 and R-2). (2) Contractor Notification (Action R-3). (3) Preliminary Analysis (Phase I) (Action R-4). (4) Onsite Verification and Interviews (Phase II) (Action R-5). (5) Exit Conference (Action R-6). (6) Compliance Determination and Formal Notification (Actions R-8, R-9, R-10, R-11, R-12). The...

  10. EXAFS study of mercury(II) sorption to Fe- and Al-(hydr)oxides: I. Effects of pH

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Kim, C.S.; Rytuba, J.J.; Brown, Gordon E.

    2004-01-01

    The study of mercury sorption products in model systems using appropriate in situ molecular-scale probes can provide detailed information on the modes of sorption at mineral/water interfaces. Such studies are essential for assessing the influence of sorption processes on the transport of Hg in contaminated natural systems. Macroscopic uptake of Hg(II) on goethite (??-FeOOH), ??-alumina (??-Al2O3), and bayerite (??-Al(OH)3) as a function of pH has been combined with Hg L III-edge EXAFS spectroscopy, FTIR spectroscopy, and bond valence analysis of possible sorption products to provide this type of information. Macroscopic uptake measurements show that Hg(II) sorbs strongly to fine-grained powders of synthetic goethite (Hg sorption density ??=0.39-0.42 ??mol/m2) and bayerite (??=0.39-0.44 ??mol/m2), while sorbing more weakly to ??-alumina (??=0.04-0.13 ??mol/m 2). EXAFS spectroscopy on the sorption samples shows that the dominant mode of Hg sorption on these phases is as monodentate and bidentate inner-sphere complexes. The mode of Hg(II) sorption to goethite was similar over the pH range 4.3-7.4, as were those of Hg(II) sorption to bayerite over the pH range 5.1-7.9. Conversion of the ??-Al2O3 sorbent to a bayerite-like phase in addition to the apparent reduction of Hg(II) to Hg(I), possibly by photoreduction during EXAFS data collection, resulted in enhanced Hg uptake from pH 5.2-7.8 and changes in the modes of sorption that correlate with the formation of the bayerite-like phase. Bond valence calculations are consistent with the sorption modes proposed from EXAFS analysis. EXAFS analysis of Hg(II) sorption products on a natural Fe oxyhydroxide precipitate and Al/Si-bearing flocculent material showed sorption products and modes of surface attachment similar to those for the model substrates, indicating that the model substrates are useful surrogates for the natural sediments. ?? 2003 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  11. The role of technology in reducing health care costs. Phase II and phase III.

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Cilke, John F.; Parks, Raymond C.; Funkhouser, Donald Ray

    2004-04-01

    In Phase I of this project, reported in SAND97-1922, Sandia National Laboratories applied a systems approach to identifying innovative biomedical technologies with the potential to reduce U.S. health care delivery costs while maintaining care quality. The effort provided roadmaps for the development and integration of technology to meet perceived care delivery requirements and an economic analysis model for development of care pathway costs for two conditions: coronary artery disease (CAD) and benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH). Phases II and III of this project, which are presented in this report, were directed at detailing the parameters of telemedicine that influence care deliverymore » costs and quality. These results were used to identify and field test the communication, interoperability, and security capabilities needed for cost-effective, secure, and reliable health care via telemedicine.« less

  12. Isac Sc-Linac Phase-II Helium Refrigerator Commissioning and First Operational Experience at Triumf

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sekachev, I.; Kishi, D.; Laxdal, R. E.

    2010-04-01

    ISAC Phase-II is an upgrade of the radioactive isotope superconducting linear accelerator, SC-linac, at TRIUMF. The Phase-I section of the accelerator, medium-beta, is operational and is cooled with a 600 W helium refrigerator, commissioned in March 2005. An identical refrigerator is being used with the Phase-II segment of the accelerator; which is now under construction. The second refrigerator has been commissioned and tested with the Phase-I section of the linac and is used for Phase-II linac development, including new SC-cavity performance tests. The commissioning of the Phase-II refrigeration system and recent operational experience is presented.

  13. Design of Phase II Non-inferiority Trials.

    PubMed

    Jung, Sin-Ho

    2017-09-01

    With the development of inexpensive treatment regimens and less invasive surgical procedures, we are confronted with non-inferiority study objectives. A non-inferiority phase III trial requires a roughly four times larger sample size than that of a similar standard superiority trial. Because of the large required sample size, we often face feasibility issues to open a non-inferiority trial. Furthermore, due to lack of phase II non-inferiority trial design methods, we do not have an opportunity to investigate the efficacy of the experimental therapy through a phase II trial. As a result, we often fail to open a non-inferiority phase III trial and a large number of non-inferiority clinical questions still remain unanswered. In this paper, we want to develop some designs for non-inferiority randomized phase II trials with feasible sample sizes. At first, we review a design method for non-inferiority phase III trials. Subsequently, we propose three different designs for non-inferiority phase II trials that can be used under different settings. Each method is demonstrated with examples. Each of the proposed design methods is shown to require a reasonable sample size for non-inferiority phase II trials. The three different non-inferiority phase II trial designs are used under different settings, but require similar sample sizes that are typical for phase II trials.

  14. Effect of Carbon Ion Radiotherapy for Sacral Chordoma: Results of Phase I-II and Phase II Clinical Trials

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Imai, Reiko, E-mail: r_imai@nirs.go.j; Kamada, Tadashi; Tsuji, Hiroshi

    2010-08-01

    Purpose: To summarize the results of treatment for sacral chordoma in Phase I-II and Phase II carbon ion radiotherapy trials for bone and soft-tissue sarcomas. Patients and Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of 38 patients with medically unresectable sacral chordomas treated with the Heavy Ion Medical Accelerator in Chiba, Japan between 1996 and 2003. Of the 38 patients, 30 had not received previous treatment and 8 had locally recurrent tumor after previous resection. The applied carbon ion dose was 52.8-73.6 Gray equivalents (median, 70.4) in a total of 16 fixed fractions within 4 weeks. Results: The median patient agemore » was 66 years. The cranial tumor extension was S2 or greater in 31 patients. The median clinical target volume was 523 cm{sup 3}. The median follow-up period was 80 months. The 5-year overall survival rate was 86%, and the 5-year local control rate was 89%. After treatment, 27 of 30 patients with primary tumor remained ambulatory with or without supportive devices. Two patients experienced severe skin or soft-tissue complications requiring skin grafts. Conclusion: Carbon ion radiotherapy appears effective and safe in the treatment of patients with sacral chordoma and offers a promising alternative to surgery.« less

  15. Separation and determination of minor photosynthetic pigments by reversed-phase HPLC with minimal alteration of chlorophylls.

    PubMed

    Nakamura, A; Watanabe, T

    2001-04-01

    Reversed-phase HPLC conditions for separation of chlorophyll (Chl) a, Chl a' (the C132-epimer of Chl a), pheophytin (Pheo) a (the primary electron acceptor of photosystem (PS) II), and phylloquinone (PhQ) (the secondary electron acceptor of PS 1), have been developed. Pigment extraction conditions were optimized in terms of pigment alteration and extraction efficiency. Pigment composition analysis of light-harvesting complex II, which would not contain Chl a' nor Pheo a, showed the Chl a'/Chl a ratio of 3-4 x 10(-4) and the Pheo a/Chl a ratio of 4-5 x 10(-4), showing that the conditions developed here were sufficiently inert for Chl analysis. Preliminary analysis of thylakoid membranes with this analytical system gave the PhQ/Chl a' ratio of 0.58 +/- 0.03 (n = 4), in line with the stoichiometry of one molecule of Chl a' per PS I.

  16. Synthesis and application of surface-imprinted activated carbon sorbent for solid-phase extraction and determination of copper (II)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Zhenhua; Li, Jingwen; Wang, Yanbin; Wei, Yajun

    2014-01-01

    A new Cu(II)-imprinted amino-functionalized activated carbon sorbent was prepared by a surface imprinting technique for selective solid-phase extraction (SPE) of Cu(II) prior to its determination by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES). Experimental conditions for effective adsorption of Cu(II) were optimized with respect to different experimental parameters using static and dynamic procedures in detail. Compared with non-imprinted sorbent, the ion-imprinted sorbent had higher selectivity and adsorption capacity for Cu(II). The maximum static adsorption capacity of the ion-imprinted and non-imprinted sorbent for Cu(II) was 26.71 and 6.86 mg g-1, respectively. The relatively selectivity factor values (αr) of Cu(II)/Zn(II), Cu(II)/Ni(II), Cu(II)/Co(II) and Cu(II)/Pb(II) were 166.16, 50.77, 72.26 and 175.77, respectively, which were greater than 1. Complete elution of the adsorbed Cu(II) from Cu(II)-imprinted sorbent was carried out using 2 mL of 0.1 mol L-1 EDTA solution. The relative standard deviation of the method was 2.4% for eleven replicate determinations. The method was validated for the analysis by two certified reference materials (GBW 08301, GBW 08303), the results obtained is in good agreement with standard values. The developed method was also successfully applied to the determination of trace copper in natural water samples with satisfactory results.

  17. Synthesis and application of surface-imprinted activated carbon sorbent for solid-phase extraction and determination of copper (II).

    PubMed

    Li, Zhenhua; Li, Jingwen; Wang, Yanbin; Wei, Yajun

    2014-01-03

    A new Cu(II)-imprinted amino-functionalized activated carbon sorbent was prepared by a surface imprinting technique for selective solid-phase extraction (SPE) of Cu(II) prior to its determination by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES). Experimental conditions for effective adsorption of Cu(II) were optimized with respect to different experimental parameters using static and dynamic procedures in detail. Compared with non-imprinted sorbent, the ion-imprinted sorbent had higher selectivity and adsorption capacity for Cu(II). The maximum static adsorption capacity of the ion-imprinted and non-imprinted sorbent for Cu(II) was 26.71 and 6.86 mg g(-1), respectively. The relatively selectivity factor values (αr) of Cu(II)/Zn(II), Cu(II)/Ni(II), Cu(II)/Co(II) and Cu(II)/Pb(II) were 166.16, 50.77, 72.26 and 175.77, respectively, which were greater than 1. Complete elution of the adsorbed Cu(II) from Cu(II)-imprinted sorbent was carried out using 2 mL of 0.1 mol L(-1) EDTA solution. The relative standard deviation of the method was 2.4% for eleven replicate determinations. The method was validated for the analysis by two certified reference materials (GBW 08301, GBW 08303), the results obtained is in good agreement with standard values. The developed method was also successfully applied to the determination of trace copper in natural water samples with satisfactory results. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  18. 78 FR 76789 - Additional Connect America Fund Phase II Issues

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-12-19

    ... inspection and copying during normal business hours in the FCC Reference Information Center, Portals II, 445... Phase I to Phase II. 2. Timing of Phase II Support Disbursements. In the USF/ICC Transformation Order... language in paragraph 180 of the USF/ICC Transformation Order. We now seek to more fully develop the record...

  19. 48 CFR 1852.219-81 - Limitation on subcontracting-SBIR Phase II program.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... subcontracting-SBIR Phase II program. 1852.219-81 Section 1852.219-81 Federal Acquisition Regulations System... CLAUSES Texts of Provisions and Clauses 1852.219-81 Limitation on subcontracting—SBIR Phase II program. As prescribed in 1819.7302(b), insert the following clause: Limitation on Subcontracting—SBIR Phase II Program...

  20. 48 CFR 1852.219-81 - Limitation on subcontracting-SBIR Phase II program.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... subcontracting-SBIR Phase II program. 1852.219-81 Section 1852.219-81 Federal Acquisition Regulations System... CLAUSES Texts of Provisions and Clauses 1852.219-81 Limitation on subcontracting—SBIR Phase II program. As prescribed in 1819.7302(b), insert the following clause: Limitation on Subcontracting—SBIR Phase II Program...

  1. 48 CFR 1852.219-81 - Limitation on subcontracting-SBIR Phase II program.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... subcontracting-SBIR Phase II program. 1852.219-81 Section 1852.219-81 Federal Acquisition Regulations System... CLAUSES Texts of Provisions and Clauses 1852.219-81 Limitation on subcontracting—SBIR Phase II program. As prescribed in 1819.7302(b), insert the following clause: Limitation on Subcontracting—SBIR Phase II Program...

  2. Rational Clinical Experiment: Assessing Prior Probability and Its Impact on the Success of Phase II Clinical Trials

    PubMed Central

    Halperin, Daniel M.; Lee, J. Jack; Dagohoy, Cecile Gonzales; Yao, James C.

    2015-01-01

    Purpose Despite a robust clinical trial enterprise and encouraging phase II results, the vast minority of oncologic drugs in development receive regulatory approval. In addition, clinicians occasionally make therapeutic decisions based on phase II data. Therefore, clinicians, investigators, and regulatory agencies require improved understanding of the implications of positive phase II studies. We hypothesized that prior probability of eventual drug approval was significantly different across GI cancers, with substantial ramifications for the predictive value of phase II studies. Methods We conducted a systematic search of phase II studies conducted between 1999 and 2004 and compared studies against US Food and Drug Administration and National Cancer Institute databases of approved indications for drugs tested in those studies. Results In all, 317 phase II trials were identified and followed for a median of 12.5 years. Following completion of phase III studies, eventual new drug application approval rates varied from 0% (zero of 45) in pancreatic adenocarcinoma to 34.8% (24 of 69) for colon adenocarcinoma. The proportion of drugs eventually approved was correlated with the disease under study (P < .001). The median type I error for all published trials was 0.05, and the median type II error was 0.1, with minimal variation. By using the observed median type I error for each disease, phase II studies have positive predictive values ranging from less than 1% to 90%, depending on primary site of the cancer. Conclusion Phase II trials in different GI malignancies have distinct prior probabilities of drug approval, yielding quantitatively and qualitatively different predictive values with similar statistical designs. Incorporation of prior probability into trial design may allow for more effective design and interpretation of phase II studies. PMID:26261263

  3. Phase portrait analysis of super solitary waves and flat top solutions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Steffy, S. V.; Ghosh, S. S.

    2018-06-01

    The phase portrait analysis of super solitary waves has revealed a new kind of intermediate solution which defines the boundary between the two types of super solitary waves, viz., Type I and Type II. A Type I super solitary wave is known to be associated with an intermediate double layer while a Type II solution has no such association. The intermediate solution at the boundary has a flat top structure and is called a flat top solitary wave. Its characteristics resemble an amalgamation of a solitary wave and a double layer. It was found that, mathematically, such kinds of structures may emerge due to the presence of an extra nonlinearity. Although they are relatively unfamiliar in the realm of plasma physics, they have much wider applications in other physical systems.

  4. Effects of gravity reduction on phase equilibria. Part 1: Unary and binary isostructural solids

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Larson, D. J., Jr.

    1975-01-01

    Analysis of the Skylab II M553 Experiment samples resulted in the hypothesis that the reduced gravity environment was altering the melting and solidification reactions. A theoretical study was conducted to define the conditions under which such alteration of phase relations is feasible, determine whether it is restricted to space processing, and, if so, ascertain which alloy systems or phase reactions are most likely to demonstrate such effects. Phase equilibria of unary and binary systems with a single solid phase (unary and isomorphous) were considered.

  5. DCERP Annual Technical Report II

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2009-05-01

    information among the various DCERP partners . Research and monitoring activities during Phase II of DCERP are currently planned for 4 years (until...this information to improve scheduling of amphibious maneuvers in the NRE. Preliminary analysis of MCBCL air quality data indicated an increasing...2008 at the three MCBCL sites exceeded current National Ambient Air Quality Standards. Experimental results show that salt marshes bordering the

  6. Rotational Analysis of FTIR Spectra from Cigarette Smoke: An Application of Chem Spec II Software in the Undergraduate Laboratory

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ford, Alan R.; Burns, William A.; Reeve, Scott W.

    2004-01-01

    A version of the classic gas phase infrared experiment was developed for students at Arkansas State University based on the shortcomings of the rotationally resolved infrared experiment. Chem Spec II is a noncommercial Windows-based software package developed to aid in the potentially complicated problem of assigning quantum numbers to observed…

  7. Quantum walks with an anisotropic coin II: scattering theory

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Richard, S.; Suzuki, A.; de Aldecoa, R. Tiedra

    2018-05-01

    We perform the scattering analysis of the evolution operator of quantum walks with an anisotropic coin, and we prove a weak limit theorem for their asymptotic velocity. The quantum walks that we consider include one-defect models, two-phase quantum walks, and topological phase quantum walks as special cases. Our analysis is based on an abstract framework for the scattering theory of unitary operators in a two-Hilbert spaces setting, which is of independent interest.

  8. Conformational polymorphism and thermochemical analysis of 5,5' ''-bis[(2,2,5,5-tetramethyl-1-aza-2,5-disila-1-cyclopentyl)ethyl]-2,2':5',2' ':5' ',2' ''-quaterthiophene.

    PubMed

    Muguruma, Hitoshi; Hotta, Shu

    2006-11-23

    The titled compound exists as two polymorphic solid phases (denoted form-I and form-II). Form-I obtained by as-synthesized material is a more stable phase. Form-II is a less stable phase. Spontaneous solid-solid transformation from form-II to form-I is observed in the temperature range between room temperature and the melting point of form-I (Tm = 156.5 degrees C), and its activation energy is estimated to be 96 kJ mol-1 by Arrhenius plot. The solid-solute-solid transformation (recrystallization from solution) from form-II to form-I is also observed. In contrast, form-II is obtained only by a solid-melt-solid transformation from form-I. Therefore, the system of two polymorphs is monotropic. The solid-state NMR measurement shows that form-I has the molecular conformation of complete S-syn-anti-syn in the oligothiophene backbone, whereas form-II has that of S-all-anti. With the solution NMR data, the polymorphism could not be observed. Therefore, the polymorphs originate from the different molecular packing involving the conformational change of the molecule. This unique property is attributed to the extra bulky terminal groups of the compounds. However, despite the extra bulky terminal groups, the mentioned polymorphism is not observed in the titled compound analogue which has S-all-anti conformation (like form-II).

  9. Load environment of rail joint bars -- phase II, joint bar service environment and fatigue analysis.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2014-07-01

    Detailed analysis of measured bending strains shows that the foundation deflections have the most significant effect on the : magnitude of strains. All other factors, such as track type, track geometry, and fastening systems, have a less significant ...

  10. Identifying Effective Design Approaches to Allocate Genotypes in Two-Phase Designs: A Case Study in Pelargonium zonale.

    PubMed

    Molenaar, Heike; Boehm, Robert; Piepho, Hans-Peter

    2017-01-01

    Robust phenotypic data allow adequate statistical analysis and are crucial for any breeding purpose. Such data is obtained from experiments laid out to best control local variation. Additionally, experiments frequently involve two phases, each contributing environmental sources of variation. For example, in a former experiment we conducted to evaluate production related traits in Pelargonium zonale , there were two consecutive phases, each performed in a different greenhouse. Phase one involved the propagation of the breeding strains to obtain the stem cutting count, and phase two involved the assessment of root formation. The evaluation of the former study raised questions regarding options for improving the experimental layout: (i) Is there a disadvantage to using exactly the same design in both phases? (ii) Instead of generating a separate layout for each phase, can the design be optimized across both phases, such that the mean variance of a pair-wise treatment difference (MVD) can be decreased? To answer these questions, alternative approaches were explored to generate two-phase designs either in phase-wise order (Option 1) or across phases (Option 2). In Option 1 we considered the scenarios (i) using in both phases the same experimental design and (ii) randomizing each phase separately. In Option 2, we considered the scenarios (iii) generating a single design with eight replicates and splitting these among the two phases, (iv) separating the block structure across phases by dummy coding, and (v) design generation with optimal alignment of block units in the two phases. In both options, we considered the same or different block structures in each phase. The designs were evaluated by the MVD obtained by the intra-block analysis and the joint inter-block-intra-block analysis. The smallest MVD was most frequently obtained for designs generated across phases rather than for each phase separately, in particular when both phases of the design were separated with a single pseudo-level. The joint optimization ensured that treatment concurrences were equally balanced across pairs, one of the prerequisites for an efficient design. The proposed alternative approaches can be implemented with any model-based design packages with facilities to formulate linear models for treatment and block structures.

  11. Enhanced Night Visibility Series, Volume XII : Overview of Phase II and Development of Phase III Experimental Plan

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2005-12-01

    This volume provides an overview of the six studies that compose Phase II of the Enhanced Night Visibility project and the experimental plan for its third and final portion, Phase III. The Phase II studies evaluated up to 12 vision enhancement system...

  12. Loads Correlation of a Full-Scale UH-60A Airloads Rotor in a Wind Tunnel

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Yeo, Hyeonsoo; Romander, Ethan A.

    2012-01-01

    Wind tunnel measurements of the rotor trim, blade airloads, and structural loads of a full-scale UH-60A Black Hawk main rotor are compared with calculations obtained using the comprehensive rotorcraft analysis CAMRAD II and a coupled CAMRAD II/OVERFLOW 2 analysis. A speed sweep at constant lift up to an advance ratio of 0.4 and a thrust sweep at constant speed into deep stall are investigated. The coupled analysis shows significant improvement over comprehensive analysis. Normal force phase is better captured and pitching moment magnitudes are better predicted including the magnitude and phase of the two stall events in the fourth quadrant at the deeply stalled condition. Structural loads are, in general, improved with the coupled analysis, but the magnitude of chord bending moment is still significantly underpredicted. As there are three modes around 4 and 5/rev frequencies, the structural responses to the 5/rev airloads due to dynamic stall are magnified and thus care must be taken in the analysis of the deeply stalled condition.

  13. Extraction and separation of tungsten (VI) from aqueous media with Triton X-100-ammonium sulfate-water aqueous two-phase system without any extractant.

    PubMed

    Yongqiang Zhang; Tichang Sun; Tieqiang Lu; Chunhuan Yan

    2016-11-25

    An aqueous two-phase system composed of Triton X-100-(NH 4 ) 2 SO 4 -H 2 O was proposed for extraction and separation of tungsten(VI) from aqueous solution without using any extractant. The effects of aqueous pH, concentration of ammonium sulfate, Triton X-100 and tungsten, extracting temperature on the extraction of tungsten were investigated. The extraction of tungsten has remarkable relationship with aqueous pH and are to above 90% at pH=1.0-3.0 under studied pH range (pH=1.0-7.0) and increases gradually with increasing Triton X-100 concentration, but decreases slightly with increasing ammonium sulfate concentration. The extraction percentage of tungsten is hardly relevant to temperature but its distribution coefficient linearly increases with increasing temperature within 303.15-343.15K. The distribution coefficient of tungsten increases with the increase of initial tungsten concentration (0.1-3%) and temperature (303.15 K-333.15K). The solubilization capacity of tungsten in Triton X-100 micellar phase is independent of temperature. FT-IR analysis reveals that there is no evident interaction between polytungstate anion and ether oxygen unit in Triton X-100, and DLS analysis indicates that zeta potential of Triton X-100 micellar phase have a little change from positive to negative after extracting tungsten. Based on the above-mentioned results, it can be deduced that polytungstate anions are solubilized in hydrophilic outer shell of Triton X-100 micelles by electrostatic attraction depending on its relatively high hydrophobic nature. The stripping of tungsten is mainly influenced by temperature and can be easily achieved to 95% in single stage stripping. The tungsten (VI) is separated out from solution containing Fe(III), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), Al(III), Cr(III) and Mn(II) under the suitable conditions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  14. Phase 0/I/II Cancer Prevention Clinical Trials Program (Consortia) | Division of Cancer Prevention

    Cancer.gov

    Five cancer research centers lead multiple collaborative networks to assess potential cancer preventive agents and to conduct early clinical development of promising preventive agents. Also called the Consortia for Early Phase Prevention Trials, the studies require extensive biomarker analysis, investigation of the biologic effects of the cancer preventive agents on their

  15. A Multiphase Validation of Atlas-Based Automatic and Semiautomatic Segmentation Strategies for Prostate MRI

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Martin, Spencer; Rodrigues, George, E-mail: george.rodrigues@lhsc.on.ca; Department of Epidemiology/Biostatistics, University of Western Ontario, London

    2013-01-01

    Purpose: To perform a rigorous technological assessment and statistical validation of a software technology for anatomic delineations of the prostate on MRI datasets. Methods and Materials: A 3-phase validation strategy was used. Phase I consisted of anatomic atlas building using 100 prostate cancer MRI data sets to provide training data sets for the segmentation algorithms. In phase II, 2 experts contoured 15 new MRI prostate cancer cases using 3 approaches (manual, N points, and region of interest). In phase III, 5 new physicians with variable MRI prostate contouring experience segmented the same 15 phase II datasets using 3 approaches: manual,more » N points with no editing, and full autosegmentation with user editing allowed. Statistical analyses for time and accuracy (using Dice similarity coefficient) endpoints used traditional descriptive statistics, analysis of variance, analysis of covariance, and pooled Student t test. Results: In phase I, average (SD) total and per slice contouring time for the 2 physicians was 228 (75), 17 (3.5), 209 (65), and 15 seconds (3.9), respectively. In phase II, statistically significant differences in physician contouring time were observed based on physician, type of contouring, and case sequence. The N points strategy resulted in superior segmentation accuracy when initial autosegmented contours were compared with final contours. In phase III, statistically significant differences in contouring time were observed based on physician, type of contouring, and case sequence again. The average relative timesaving for N points and autosegmentation were 49% and 27%, respectively, compared with manual contouring. The N points and autosegmentation strategies resulted in average Dice values of 0.89 and 0.88, respectively. Pre- and postedited autosegmented contours demonstrated a higher average Dice similarity coefficient of 0.94. Conclusion: The software provided robust contours with minimal editing required. Observed time savings were seen for all physicians irrespective of experience level and baseline manual contouring speed.« less

  16. Correlation of cetuximab-induced skin rash and outcomes of solid tumor patients treated with cetuximab: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

    PubMed

    Abdel-Rahman, Omar; Fouad, Mona

    2015-02-01

    We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of the correlation between cetuximab-induced skin rash and outcomes of solid tumor patients treated with cetuximab. Eligible studies included phase I, II and III trials of patients with solid tumors on cetuximab; describing events of skin rash and correlating skin rash with overall survival (OS), progression free survival (PFS) and/or overall response rate (ORR). Our search strategy yielded 409 potentially relevant citations on CETUXIMAB from Pubmed/Medline, CENTRAL Cochrane registry and ASCO meeting library. After exclusion of ineligible studies, a total of 13 clinical trials were considered eligible for the meta-analysis, including 4 phase III trials, 8 phase II trials and one phase I trial. The occurrence of cetuximab-induced rash in patients was highly associated with improvements in PFS (HR=0.74; 95% CI: 0.63-0.86, P<0.0002), OS (HR=0.60; 95% CI: 0.47-0.76, P<0.0001), and ORR (RR=1.51, 95% CI: 1.26-1.81, P<0.00001), as compared to patients without rash. Exploratory subgroup analysis showed no effect of tumor types on the RR of ORR. Our meta-analysis has demonstrated that cetuximab-induced rash is associated with a significantly improved OS, PFS and ORR. Cetuximab-induced skin rash may represent a prognostic factor in patients with advanced solid tumors. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  17. A Statistical Analysis of Langmuir Wave-Electron Correlations Observed by the CHARM II Auroral Sounding Rocket

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dombrowski, M. P.; Labelle, J. W.; Kletzing, C.; Bounds, S. R.; Kaeppler, S. R.

    2014-12-01

    Langmuir-mode electron plasma waves are frequently observed by spacecraft in active plasma environments such as the ionosphere. Ionospheric Langmuir waves may be excited by the bump-on-tail instability generated by impinging beams of electrons traveling parallel to the background magnetic field (B). The Correlation of High-frequencies and Auroral Roar Measurement (CHARM II) sounding rocket was launched into a substorm at 9:49 UT on 17 February 2010, from the Poker Flat Research Range in Alaska. The primary instruments included the University of Iowa Wave-Particle Correlator (WPC), the Dartmouth High-Frequency Experiment (HFE), several charged particle detectors, low-frequency wave instruments, and a magnetometer. The HFE is a receiver system which effectively yields continuous (100% duty cycle) electric-field waveform measurements from 100 kHz to 5 MHz, and which had its detection axis aligned nominally parallel to B. The HFE output was fed on-payload to the WPC, which uses a phase-locked loop to track the incoming wave frequency with the most power, then sorting incoming electrons at eight energy levels into sixteen wave-phase bins. CHARM II encountered several regions of strong Langmuir wave activity throughout its 15-minute flight, and the WPC showed wave-lock and statistically significant particle correlation distributions during several time periods. We show results of an in-depth analysis of the CHARM II WPC data for the entire flight, including statistical analysis of correlations which show evidence of direct interaction with the Langmuir waves, indicating (at various times) trapping of particles and both driving and damping of Langmuir waves by particles. In particular, the sign of the gradient in particle flux appears to correlate with the phase relation between the electrons and the wave field, with possible implications for the wave physics.

  18. Modular Digital Missile Guidance, Phase I2

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1976-01-28

    at OMR. The revised study plan was fornally approved by ONR on 29 May 1975, confining the sinulatlon analysis work to a Class II missile with...functions analyzed in tne Phase I and Phase 11 studies . It can be seen thatf tnere practicable» (based on the results of function partitioning trade...llaillAU AS a result of this study » three generic missile families have oeen established and» relative to this classification» on

  19. Change of motion and localization of cholesterol molecule during L(alpha)-H(II) transition.

    PubMed Central

    Hayakawa, E; Naganuma, M; Mukasa, K; Shimozawa, T; Araiso, T

    1998-01-01

    Formation of the inverted hexagonal (H(II)) phase from the lamellar (L(alpha)) phase of bovine brain-extracted phosphatidylcholine (BBPC) and phosphatidylethanolamine (BBPE) was investigated using 31P-NMR with or without cholesterol. When the ratio of BBPC to BBPE was 1:1, the H(II) formation was observed in the presence of 33 mol% cholesterol (i.e., BBPC:BBPE:cholesterol = 1:1:1) at 47 degrees C. The fraction of the H(II) phase in the BBPC/BBPE/cholesterol system could be controlled by the addition of dioleoylglycerol. The change of molecular motion of cholesterol affected by the H(II) formation was measured at various ratios of the L(alpha) to H(II) phase with the time-resolved fluorescence depolarization method, using dehydroergosterol as a fluorescent probe. It is observed that the motion of cholesterol became vigorous in the mixture state of the L(alpha) and the H(II) phases compared to that in the L(alpha) or the H(II) phase only. These facts show that cholesterol has the strong ability to induce the H(II) phase, probably by special molecular motion, which includes change of its location from the headgroup area to the acyl-chain area. PMID:9533700

  20. Branding a School-Based Campaign Combining Healthy Eating and Eco-friendliness.

    PubMed

    Folta, Sara C; Koch-Weser, Susan; Tanskey, Lindsay A; Economos, Christina D; Must, Aviva; Whitney, Claire; Wright, Catherine M; Goldberg, Jeanne P

    2018-02-01

    To develop a branding strategy for a campaign to improve the quality of foods children bring from home to school, using a combined healthy eating and eco-friendly approach and for a control campaign focusing solely on nutrition. Formative research was conducted with third- and fourth-grade students in lower- and middle-income schools in Greater Boston and their parents. Phase I included concept development focus groups. Phase II included concept testing focus groups. A thematic analysis approach was used to identify key themes. In phase I, the combined nutrition and eco-friendly messages resonated; child preference emerged as a key factor affecting food from home. In phase II, key themes included fun with food and an element of mystery. Themes were translated into a concept featuring food face characters. Iterative formative research provided information necessary to create a brand that appealed to a specified target audience. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  1. Chemical composition of individual aerosol particles in workplace air during production of manganese alloys.

    PubMed

    Gunst, S; Weinbruch, S; Wentzel, M; Ortner, H M; Skogstad, A; Hetland, S; Thomassen, Y

    2000-02-01

    Aerosol particle samples were collected at ELKEM ASA ferromanganese (FeMn) and silicomanganese (SiMn) smelters at Porsgrunn, Norway, during different production steps: raw material mixing, welding of protective steel casings, tapping of FeMn and slag, crane operation moving the ladles with molten metal, operation of the Metal Oxygen Refinement (MOR) reactor and casting of SiMn. Aerosol fractions were assessed for the analysis of the bulk elemental composition as well as for individual particle analysis. The bulk elemental composition was determined by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry. For individual particle analysis, an electron microprobe was used in combination with wavelength-dispersive techniques. Most particles show a complex composition and cannot be attributed to a single phase. Therefore, the particles were divided into six groups according to their chemical composition: Group I, particles containing mainly metallic Fe and/or Mn; Group II, slag particles containing mainly Fe and/or Mn oxides; Group III, slag particles consisting predominantly of oxidized flux components such as Si, Al, Mg, Ca, Na and K; Group IV, particles consisting mainly of carbon; Group V, mixtures of particles from Groups II, III and IV; Group VI, mixtures of particles from Groups II and III. In raw material mixing, particles originating from the Mn ores were mostly found. In the welding of steel casings, most particles were assigned to Group II, Mn and Fe oxides. During the tapping of slag and metal, mostly slag particles from Group III were found (oxides of the flux components). During movement of the ladles, most particles came from Group II. At the MOR reactor, most of the particles belonged to the slag phase consisting of the flux components (Group III). The particles collected during the casting of SiMn were mainly attributed to the slag phase (Groups III and V). Due to the compositional complexity of the particles, toxicological investigations on the kinetics of pure compounds may not be easily associated with the results of this study.

  2. Two-stage phase II oncology designs using short-term endpoints for early stopping.

    PubMed

    Kunz, Cornelia U; Wason, James Ms; Kieser, Meinhard

    2017-08-01

    Phase II oncology trials are conducted to evaluate whether the tumour activity of a new treatment is promising enough to warrant further investigation. The most commonly used approach in this context is a two-stage single-arm design with binary endpoint. As for all designs with interim analysis, its efficiency strongly depends on the relation between recruitment rate and follow-up time required to measure the patients' outcomes. Usually, recruitment is postponed after the sample size of the first stage is achieved up until the outcomes of all patients are available. This may lead to a considerable increase of the trial length and with it to a delay in the drug development process. We propose a design where an intermediate endpoint is used in the interim analysis to decide whether or not the study is continued with a second stage. Optimal and minimax versions of this design are derived. The characteristics of the proposed design in terms of type I error rate, power, maximum and expected sample size as well as trial duration are investigated. Guidance is given on how to select the most appropriate design. Application is illustrated by a phase II oncology trial in patients with advanced angiosarcoma, which motivated this research.

  3. Flight Test of the F/A-18 Active Aeroelastic Wing Airplane

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Voracek, David

    2007-01-01

    A viewgraph presentation of flight tests performed on the F/A active aeroelastic wing airplane is shown. The topics include: 1) F/A-18 AAW Airplane; 2) F/A-18 AAW Control Surfaces; 3) Flight Test Background; 4) Roll Control Effectiveness Regions; 5) AAW Design Test Points; 6) AAW Phase I Test Maneuvers; 7) OBES Pitch Doublets; 8) OBES Roll Doublets; 9) AAW Aileron Flexibility; 10) Phase I - Lessons Learned; 11) Control Law Development and Verification & Validation Testing; 12) AAW Phase II RFCS Envelopes; 13) AAW 1-g Phase II Flight Test; 14) Region I - Subsonic 1-g Rolls; 15) Region I - Subsonic 1-g 360 Roll; 16) Region II - Supersonic 1-g Rolls; 17) Region II - Supersonic 1-g 360 Roll; 18) Region III - Subsonic 1-g Rolls; 19) Roll Axis HOS/LOS Comparison Region II - Supersonic (open-loop); 20) Roll Axis HOS/LOS Comparison Region II - Supersonic (closed-loop); 21) AAW Phase II Elevated-g Flight Test; 22) Region I - Subsonic 4-g RPO; and 23) Phase II - Lessons Learned

  4. Installation Restoration Program. Phase II--Confirmation/Quantification. Stage 1.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1985-03-01

    four phases. Phase I, Initial Assessment/ Records Search, is designed to identify possible hazardous waste contami- nated sites and potential...7 71 -. - - IL’ -, 1% 33 AihlIII Is 33 n~iL t iiC UII! ii CL C LU 1-3, Phase II, Confirmation and Quantification, is designed to confirm the...additional monitoring data upon which design of mitigative actions are based. In Phase III, Technology Base Development, appropriate technology is selected and

  5. Installation Restoration Program. Phase II: Stage 1 Problem Confirmation Study, Duluth International Airport, Duluth, Minnesota.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1984-10-01

    8 iii "i t-. Table of Contents (cont.) Section Title Page -APPENDIX A Acronyms, Definitions, Nomenclature and Units of Measure B Scope of Work, Task...Identification/Records Search Phase II - Problem Confirmation and Quantification Phase III - Technology Base Development Phase IV - Corrective Action Only...Problem Identification/Records Search Phase II - Problem Confirmation and Quantification Phase III - Technology Base Development Phase IV - Corrective

  6. Tofacitinib, an oral Janus kinase inhibitor: analysis of malignancies across the rheumatoid arthritis clinical development programme

    PubMed Central

    Curtis, Jeffrey R; Lee, Eun Bong; Kaplan, Irina V; Kwok, Kenneth; Geier, Jamie; Benda, Birgitta; Soma, Koshika; Wang, Lisy; Riese, Richard

    2016-01-01

    Objectives Tofacitinib is an oral Janus kinase inhibitor for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). To further assess the potential role of Janus kinase inhibition in the development of malignancies, we performed an integrated analysis of data from the tofacitinib RA clinical development programme. Methods Malignancy data (up to 10 April 2013) were pooled from six phase II, six Phase III and two long-term extension (LTE) studies involving tofacitinib. In the phase II and III studies, patients with moderate-to-severe RA were randomised to various tofacitinib doses as monotherapy or with background non-biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), mainly methotrexate. The LTE studies (tofacitinib 5 or 10 mg twice daily) enrolled patients from qualifying prior phase I, II and III index studies. Results Of 5671 tofacitinib-treated patients, 107 developed malignancies (excluding non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC)). The most common malignancy was lung cancer (n=24) followed by breast cancer (n=19), lymphoma (n=10) and gastric cancer (n=6). The rate of malignancies by 6-month intervals of tofacitinib exposure indicates rates remained stable over time. Standardised incidence ratios (comparison with Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results) for all malignancies (excluding NMSC) and selected malignancies (lung, breast, lymphoma, NMSC) were within the expected range of patients with moderate-to-severe RA. Conclusions The overall rates and types of malignancies observed in the tofacitinib clinical programme remained stable over time with increasing tofacitinib exposure. PMID:25902789

  7. Oral Sulforaphane increases Phase II antioxidant enzymes in the human upper airway

    PubMed Central

    Riedl, Marc A.; Saxon, Andrew; Diaz-Sanchez, David

    2009-01-01

    Background Cellular oxidative stress is an important factor in asthma and is thought to be the principle mechanism by which oxidant pollutants such as ozone and particulates mediate their pro-inflammatory effects. Endogenous Phase II enzymes abrogate oxidative stress through the scavenging of reactive oxygen species and metabolism of reactive chemicals. Objective We conducted a placebo-controlled dose escalation trial to investigate the in vivo effects of sulforaphane, a naturally occurring potent inducer of Phase II enzymes, on the expression of glutathione-s-transferase M1 (GSTM1), glutathione-s-transferase P1 (GSTP1), NADPH quinone oxidoreductase (NQO1), and hemoxygenase-1 (HO-1) in the upper airway of human subjects. Methods Study subjects consumed oral sulforaphane doses contained in a standardized broccoli sprout homogenate (BSH). RNA expression for selected Phase II enzymes was measured in nasal lavage cells by RT-PCR before and after sulforaphane dosing. Results All subjects tolerated oral sulforaphane dosing without significant adverse events. Increased Phase II enzyme expression in nasal lavage cells occurred in a dose-dependent manner with maximal enzyme induction observed at the highest dose of 200 grams broccoli sprouts prepared as BSH. Significant increases were seen in all sentinel Phase II enzymes RNA expression compared to baseline. Phase II enzyme induction was not seen with ingestion of non-sulforaphane containing alfalfa sprouts. Conclusion Oral sulforaphane safely and effectively induces mucosal Phase II enzyme expression in the upper airway of human subjects. This study demonstrates the potential of antioxidant Phase II enzymes induction in the human airway as a strategy to reduce the inflammatory effects of oxidative stress. Clinical Implications This study demonstrates the potential of enhancement of Phase II enzyme expression as a novel therapeutic strategy for oxidant induced airway disease. Capsule Summary A placebo-controlled dose escalation trial demonstrated that naturally occurring sulforaphane from broccoli sprouts can induce a potent increase in antioxidant Phase II enzymes in airway cells. PMID:19028145

  8. Non-equilibrium phase transition in mesoscopic biochemical systems: from stochastic to nonlinear dynamics and beyond

    PubMed Central

    Ge, Hao; Qian, Hong

    2011-01-01

    A theory for an non-equilibrium phase transition in a driven biochemical network is presented. The theory is based on the chemical master equation (CME) formulation of mesoscopic biochemical reactions and the mathematical method of large deviations. The large deviations theory provides an analytical tool connecting the macroscopic multi-stability of an open chemical system with the multi-scale dynamics of its mesoscopic counterpart. It shows a corresponding non-equilibrium phase transition among multiple stochastic attractors. As an example, in the canonical phosphorylation–dephosphorylation system with feedback that exhibits bistability, we show that the non-equilibrium steady-state (NESS) phase transition has all the characteristics of classic equilibrium phase transition: Maxwell construction, a discontinuous first-derivative of the ‘free energy function’, Lee–Yang's zero for a generating function and a critical point that matches the cusp in nonlinear bifurcation theory. To the biochemical system, the mathematical analysis suggests three distinct timescales and needed levels of description. They are (i) molecular signalling, (ii) biochemical network nonlinear dynamics, and (iii) cellular evolution. For finite mesoscopic systems such as a cell, motions associated with (i) and (iii) are stochastic while that with (ii) is deterministic. Both (ii) and (iii) are emergent properties of a dynamic biochemical network. PMID:20466813

  9. Elasticity of methane hydrate phases at high pressure.

    PubMed

    Beam, Jennifer; Yang, Jing; Liu, Jin; Liu, Chujie; Lin, Jung-Fu

    2016-04-21

    Determination of the full elastic constants (cij) of methane hydrates (MHs) at extreme pressure-temperature environments is essential to our understanding of the elastic, thermodynamic, and mechanical properties of methane in MH reservoirs on Earth and icy satellites in the solar system. Here, we have investigated the elastic properties of singe-crystal cubic MH-sI, hexagonal MH-II, and orthorhombic MH-III phases at high pressures in a diamond anvil cell. Brillouin light scattering measurements, together with complimentary equation of state (pressure-density) results from X-ray diffraction and methane site occupancies in MH from Raman spectroscopy, were used to derive elastic constants of MH-sI, MH-II, and MH-III phases at high pressures. Analysis of the elastic constants for MH-sI and MH-II showed intriguing similarities and differences between the phases' compressional wave velocity anisotropy and shear wave velocity anisotropy. Our results show that these high-pressure MH phases can exhibit distinct elastic, thermodynamic, and mechanical properties at relevant environments of their respective natural reservoirs. These results provide new insight into the determination of how much methane exists in MH reservoirs on Earth and on icy satellites elsewhere in the solar system and put constraints on the pressure and temperature conditions of their environment.

  10. Dynamics of tobacco DNA topoisomerases II in cell cycle regulation: to manage topological constrains during replication, transcription and mitotic chromosome condensation and segregation.

    PubMed

    Singh, Badri Nath; Achary, V Mohan Murali; Panditi, Varakumar; Sopory, Sudhir K; Reddy, Malireddy K

    2017-08-01

    The topoisomerase II expression varies as a function of cell proliferation. Maximal topoisomerase II expression was tightly coupled to S phase and G2/M phase via both transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation. Investigation in meiosis using pollen mother cells also revealed that it is not the major component of meiotic chromosomes, it seems to diffuse out once meiotic chromosomal condensation is completed. Synchronized tobacco BY-2 cell cultures were used to study the role of topoisomerase II in various stages of the cell cycle. Topoisomerase II transcript accumulation was observed during the S- and G2/M- phase of cell cycle. This biphasic expression pattern indicates the active requirement of topoisomerase II during these stages of the cell cycle. Through immuno-localization of topoisomerase II was observed diffusely throughout the nucleoplasm in interphase nuclei, whereas, the nucleolus region exhibited a more prominent immuno-positive staining that correlated with rRNA transcription, as shown by propidium iodide staining and BrUTP incorporation. The immuno-staining analysis also showed that topoisomerase II is the major component of mitotic chromosomes and remain attached to the chromosomes during cell division. The inhibition of topoisomerase II activity using specific inhibitors revealed quite dramatic effect on condensation of chromatin and chromosome individualization from prophase to metaphase transition. Partially condensed chromosomes were not arranged on metaphase plate and chromosomal perturbations were observed when advance to anaphase, suggesting the importance of topoisomerase II activity for proper chromosome condensation and segregation during mitosis. Contrary, topoisomerase II is not the major component of meiotic chromosomes, even though mitosis and meiosis share many processes, including the DNA replication, chromosome condensation and precisely regulated partitioning of chromosomes into daughter cells. Even if topoisomerase II is required for individualization and condensation of meiotic chromosomes, it seems to diffuse out once meiotic chromosomal condensation is completed.

  11. Centrifuge workers study. Phase II, completion report

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Wooten, H.D.

    1994-09-01

    Phase II of the Centrifuge Workers Study was a follow-up to the Phase I efforts. The Phase I results had indicated a higher risk than expected among centrifuge workers for developing bladder cancer when compared with the risk in the general population for developing this same type of cancer. However, no specific agent could be identified as the causative agent for these bladder cancers. As the Phase II Report states, Phase I had been limited to workers who had the greatest potential for exposure to substances used in the centrifuge process. Phase II was designed to expand the survey tomore » evaluate the health of all employees who had ever worked in Centrifuge Program Departments 1330-1339 but who had not been interviewed in Phase I. Employees in analytical laboratories and maintenance departments who provided support services for the Centrifuge Program were also included in Phase II. In December 1989, the Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU), now known as Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), was contracted to conduct a follow-up study (Phase II). Phase H of the Centrifuge Workers Study expanded the survey to include all former centrifuge workers who were not included in Phase I. ORISE was chosen because they had performed the Phase I tasks and summarized the corresponding survey data therefrom.« less

  12. Three feruloyl esterases in Cellulosilyticum ruminicola H1 act synergistically to hydrolyze esterified polysaccharides.

    PubMed

    Li, Jiabao; Cai, Shichun; Luo, Yuanming; Dong, Xiuzhu

    2011-09-01

    Feruloyl esterases (Faes) constitute a subclass of carboxyl esterases that specifically hydrolyze the ester linkages between ferulate and polysaccharides in plant cell walls. Until now, the described microbial Faes were mainly from fungi. In this study, we report that Cellulosilyticum ruminicola H1, a previously described fibrolytic rumen bacterium, possesses three different active feruloyl esterases, FaeI, FaeII, and FaeIII. Phylogenetic analysis classified the described bacterial Faes into two types, FaeI and FaeII in type I and FaeIII in type II. Substrate specificity assays indicated that FaeI is more active against the ester bonds in natural hemicelluloses and FaeIII preferentially attacks the ferulate esters with a small moiety, such as methyl groups, while FaeII is active on both types of substrates. Among the three feruloyl esterase genes, faeI was the only one induced significantly by xylose and xylan, while pectin appeared to moderately induce the three genes during the late log phase to stationary phase. Western blot analysis determined that FaeI and FaeIII were secreted and cytoplasmic proteins, respectively, whereas FaeII seemed to be cell associated. The addition of FaeI and FaeII but not FaeIII enhanced the activity of a xylanase on maize cob, suggesting a synergy of the former two with xylanase. Hence, we propose that the three feruloyl esterases work in concert to hydrolyze ferulate esters in natural hemicelluloses.

  13. Abundances and Depletions of Neutron-capture Elements in the Interstellar Medium

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ritchey, A. M.; Federman, S. R.; Lambert, D. L.

    2018-06-01

    We present an extensive analysis of the gas-phase abundances and depletion behaviors of neutron-capture elements in the interstellar medium (ISM). Column densities (or upper limits to the column densities) of Ga II, Ge II, As II, Kr I, Cd II, Sn II, and Pb II are determined for a sample of 69 sight lines with high- and/or medium-resolution archival spectra obtained with the Space Telescope Imaging Spectrograph on board the Hubble Space Telescope. An additional 59 sight lines with column density measurements reported in the literature are included in our analysis. Parameters that characterize the depletion trends of the elements are derived according to the methodology developed by Jenkins. (In an appendix, we present similar depletion results for the light element B.) The depletion patterns exhibited by Ga and Ge comport with expectations based on the depletion results obtained for many other elements. Arsenic exhibits much less depletion than expected, and its abundance in low-depletion sight lines may even be supersolar. We confirm a previous finding by Jenkins that the depletion of Kr increases as the overall depletion level increases from one sight line to another. Cadmium shows no such evidence of increasing depletion. We find a significant amount of scatter in the gas-phase abundances of Sn and Pb. For Sn, at least, the scatter may be evidence of real intrinsic abundance variations due to s-process enrichment combined with inefficient mixing in the ISM.

  14. Multi-body Dynamic Contact Analysis Tool for Transmission Design

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2003-04-01

    frequencies were computed in COSMIC NASTRAN, and were validated against the published experimental modal analysis [17]. • Using assumed time domain... modal superposition. • Results from the structural analysis (mode shapes or forced response) were converted into IDEAS universal format (dataset 55...ARMY RESEARCH LABORATORY Multi-body Dynamic Contact Analysis Tool for Transmission Design SBIR Phase II Final Report by

  15. Schema therapy for chronic depression: Results of a multiple single case series.

    PubMed

    Renner, Fritz; Arntz, Arnoud; Peeters, Frenk P M L; Lobbestael, Jill; Huibers, Marcus J H

    2016-06-01

    The aim of this study was to test the effects of individual schema therapy (ST) for patients with chronic depression. Using a multiple-baseline single case series design, patients with chronic major depressive disorder (N = 25) first entered a 6-24 weeks baseline phase; this phase functioned as a no-treatment control condition. Then, patients started a 12 week exploration phase during which symptoms and underlying schemas were explored; this phase functioned as an attention control condition. Next, patients received up to 65 sessions of individual ST. The Beck Depression Inventory II (BDI-II) and the Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology (QIDS) were the primary outcome measures. The BDI-II was assessed once a week during all phases of the study resulting in 100 repeated assessments per participant on average. Mixed regression analysis was used to contrast change in symptoms during the intervention with change in symptoms during the baseline and exploration control phases. When compared to the no-treatment control period, the intervention had a significant, large effect on depressive symptoms (Cohen's d BDI-II = 1.30; Cohen's d QIDS = 1.22). Effects on secondary continuous outcomes were moderate to large. The small sample size and lack of a control group. These findings provide evidence that ST might be an effective treatment for patients with chronic depression. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  16. Synergic nature of dielectric relaxation process in the layered perovskite halide salts: The case of 1,3- diammoniumpropylenetetrabromocadmate compound

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Staśkiewicz, Beata

    2018-06-01

    The negative thermal expansion (NTE) property was a prototype to discuss the origin of difference between classical Debye relaxation process and the non-Debye behavior in the layered perovskite halide salt of chemical formula NH3(CH2)3NH3CdBr4. The analysis has been taken by dielectric relaxation spectroscopy measurements in almost six decades in frequency 5 × 102 ≤ f(ω) ≤ 1.2 × 108 and in the temperature range 315 ≤ T(K) ≤ 390. It was shown that the investigated sample exhibit an antiferrodistortive nature of phase transition between two orthorhombic structural modifications i.e. Pnma (phase I) and Ima2 (phase II) at Tc1(I → II) = 326 K, leading from an antiferroelectric to a paraelectric phase. The involvement of an odd number of carbon atoms in the alkylammonium chains in dielectric properties of examined sample is proved. Higher structural modifications, i.e. Ima2 (phase II) and P21/m (phase III), have shown significant deviations from a regular circle on the Cole-Cole diagram. Presented experimental observations are essentially important for the theoretical explanation of relaxation processes in analyzed organic - inorganic compound crystallizing in a perovskite-like topology and may provide new perspective on the fundamental aspect of relaxation response in "diammonium" series.

  17. Boletus edulis loaded with γ-Fe2O3 nanoparticles as a magnetic sorbent for preconcentration of Co(II) and Sn(II) prior to their determination by ICP-OES.

    PubMed

    Ozdemir, Sadin; Serkan Yalcin, M; Kilinc, Ersin; Soylak, Mustafa

    2017-12-20

    The authors show that the fungus Boletus edulis loaded with γ-Fe 2 O 3 nanoparticles is a viable sorbent for magnetic solid phase extraction of trace levels of Co(II) and Sn(II). The surface structure of immobilized magnetized B. edulis was characterized by FT-IR, SEM and EDX. Experimental parameters were optimized. Following elution with 1 M HCl, the ions were quantified by ICP-OES. The limits of detection are 21 pg·mL -1 for Co(II), and 19 pg·mL -1 for Sn(II). The preconcentration factors are 100 for both ions. The sorption capacities of the sorbent are 35.8 mg·g -1 for Co(II) and 29.6 mg·g -1 for Sn(II). The method was applied to the analysis of certificated reference materials and gave ≥95% recoveries with low RSDs. It was also successfully applied to the quantification of Co(II) and Sn(II) in spiked environmental and food samples. Graphical abstract The fungus Boletus edulis loaded with γ-Fe 2 O 3 nanoparticles is a viable biosorbent for magnetic solid phase extraction (MSPE) of trace levels of Co(II) and Sn(II). The surface structure of immobilized magnetized B. edulis was characterized by FT-IR, SEM and EDX. Experimental parameters were optimized.

  18. Synthesis and application of Fe3O4@SiO2@TiO2 for photocatalytic decomposition of organic matrix simultaneously with magnetic solid phase extraction of heavy metals prior to ICP-MS analysis.

    PubMed

    Habila, Mohamed A; ALOthman, Zeid A; El-Toni, Ahmed Mohamed; Labis, Joselito Puzon; Soylak, Mustafa

    2016-07-01

    Interference of organic compounds in the matrix of heavy metal solution could suppress their pre-concentration and detection processes. Therefore, this work aimed to develop simple and facile methods for separation of heavy metals before ICP-MS analysis. Fe3O4@SiO2@TiO2 core-double shell magnetic adsorbent was prepared and characterized by TEM, SEM, FTIR, XRD and surface area, and tested for Magnetic Solid Phase Extraction (MSPE) of Cu(II), Zn(II), Cd(II) and Pb(II). TEM micrograph of Fe3O4@SiO2@TiO2 reveals the uniform coating of TiO2 layer of about 20nm onto the Fe3O4@SiO2 nanoparticles and indicates that all nanoparticles are monodispersed and uniform. The saturation magnetization from the room-temperature hysteresis loops of Fe3O4 and Fe3O4@SiO2@TiO2 was found to be 72 and 40emug(-1), respectively, suggesting good separability of the nanoparticles. The Fe3O4@SiO2@TiO2 showed maximum adsorption capacity of 125, 137, 148 and 160mgg(-1) for Cu(II), Zn(II), Cd(II) and Pb(II) respectively, and the process was found to fit with the second order kinetic model and Langmuir isotherm. Fe3O4@SiO2@TiO2 showed efficient photocatalytic decomposition for tartrazine and sunset yellow (consider as Interfering organic compounds) in aqueous solution under the irradiation of UV light. The maximum recovery% was achieved at pH 5, by elution with 10mL of 2M nitric acid solution. The LODs were found to be 0.066, 0.049, 0.041 and 0.082µgL(-1) for Cu(II), Zn(II), Cd(II) and Pb(II), respectively while the LOQs were found to be 0.20, 0.15, 0.12 and 0.25µgL(-1) for Cu(II), Zn(II), Cd(II) and Pb(II), respectively. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  19. Corrections Analysis Report: Phase II.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Applied Management Sciences, Inc., Silver Spring, MD.

    The validity of data provided through rejection edits of students applying for Basic Educational Opportunity Grants (BEOGs) was assessed. The question of whether some edits were associated with applicants' failure to reapply was also considered. The analysis used the 1978-1979 BEOG applicant population. A total of 3,823,008 applicants had applied…

  20. Preparation of the implementation plan of AASHTO Mechanistic-Empirical Pavement Design Guide (M-EPDG) in Connecticut : Phase II : expanded sensitivity analysis and validation with pavement management data.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2017-02-08

    The study re-evaluates distress prediction models using the Mechanistic-Empirical Pavement Design Guide (MEPDG) and expands the sensitivity analysis to a wide range of pavement structures and soils. In addition, an extensive validation analysis of th...

  1. Correlation between lifetime heterogeneity and kinetics heterogeneity during chlorophyll fluorescence induction in leaves: 1. Mono-frequency phase and modulation analysis reveals a conformational change of a PSII pigment complex during the IP thermal phase.

    PubMed

    Moise, Nicolae; Moya, Ismaël

    2004-06-28

    The relationship between the fluorescence lifetime (tau) and yield (Phi) obtained in phase and modulation fluorometry at 54 MHz during the chlorophyll fluorescence induction in dark-adapted leaves under low actinic light has been investigated. Three typical phases have been identified: (i) linear during the OI photochemical rise, (ii) convex curvature during the subsequent IP thermal rise, and (iii) linear during the PS slow decay. A similar relationship has been obtained in the fluorescence induction for the fluorescence yield measured at 685 nm plotted versus the fluorescence yield measured at 735 nm. A spectrally resolved analysis shows that the curvature of the tau-Phi relationship is not due to chlorophyll fluorescence reabsorption effects. Several other hypotheses are discussed and we conclude that the curvature of the tau-Phi relationship is due to a variable and transitory nonphotochemical quenching. We tentatively propose that this quenching results from a conformational change of a pigment-protein complex of Photosystem II core antenna during the IP phase and could explain both spectral and temporal transitory changes of the fluorescence. A variable blue shift of the 685 nm peak of the fluorescence spectrum during the IP phase has been observed, supporting this hypothesis.

  2. Technology verification phase. Dynamic isotope power system. Final report

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Halsey, D.G.

    1982-03-10

    The Phase I requirements of the Kilowatt Isotope Power System (KIPS) program were to make a detailed Flight System Conceptual Design (FSCD) for an isotope fueled organic Rankine cycle power system and to build and test a Ground Demonstration System (GDS) which simulated as closely as possible the operational characteristics of the FSCD. The activities and results of Phase II, the Technology Verification Phase, of the program are reported. The objectives of this phase were to increase system efficiency to 18.1% by component development, to demonstrate system reliability by a 5000 h endurance test and to update the flight systemmore » design. During Phase II, system performance was improved from 15.1% to 16.6%, an endurance test of 2000 h was performed while the flight design analysis was limited to a study of the General Purpose Heat Source, a study of the regenerator manufacturing technique and analysis of the hardness of the system to a laser threat. It was concluded from these tests that the GDS is basically prototypic of a flight design; all components necessary for satisfactory operation were demonstrated successfully at the system level; over 11,000 total h of operation without any component failure attested to the inherent reliability of this type of system; and some further development is required, specifically in the area of performance. (LCL)« less

  3. The synthesis of corncobs (zea mays) active charcoal and water hyacinth (eichornia crassipes) adsorbent to adsorb Pb(II) with it’s analysis using solid-phase spectrophotometry (sps)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Saputro, S.; Masykuri, M.; Mahardiani, L.; Kurniastuti, D.

    2018-03-01

    This research aim to examine the effect of the combination between corncobs and water hyacinth to adsorb lead (II), the most effective combination have determined by compared the ratio of corncobs adsorbent and water hyacinth to the increasing adsorption of the Pb(II), prove the effectiveness of the solid-phase spectrophotometry (sps) to determine the levels of Pb(II) as the result of the corncobs active charcoal adsorption and water hyacinth in the level of µg/L. The research method used is experimental method. The data collecting technique is carried out by several stages, which are carbonization using muffle furnace at a temperature of 350°C for 1.5 hours, activation of the corncobs charcoal and water hyacinth using HCl 1M and HCl 5M activator, contacting the adsorbent of corncobs active charcoal and water hyacinth with liquid waste simulation of Pb(II) using variation of corncobns and water hyacinth, 1:0; 0:1; 1:1; 2:1; 1:2, analysis of Pb(II) using an sps, characterization of corncobs active charcoal adsorbent and water hyacinth using FTIR. Research results show that the combined effect of activated charcoal corncobs and water hyacinth can increase the ability of the adsorbent to absorb Pb(II), the optimum adsorbent mass ratio of 1:1 with the absorption level of 90.33%, SPS is an effective method to analyze the decreasing level of Pb(II) as the adsorbtion result of the corncobs active charcoal and water hyacinth in the level of µg/L, with the limit of detection (LOD) of 0.06 µg/L.

  4. An innovative method for analysis of Pb (II) in rice, milk and water samples based on TiO2 reinforced caprylic acid hollow fiber solid/liquid phase microextraction.

    PubMed

    Bahar, Shahriyar; Es'haghi, Zarrin; Nezhadali, Azizollah; Banaei, Alireza; Bohlooli, Shahab

    2017-04-15

    In the present study, nano-sized titanium oxides were applied for preconcentration and determination of Pb(II) in aqueous samples using hollow fiber based solid-liquid phase microextraction (HF-SLPME) combined with flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). In this work, the nanoparticles dispersed in caprylic acid as an extraction solvent was placed into a polypropylene porous hollow fiber segment supported by capillary forces and sonification. This membrane was in direct contact with solutions containing Pb (II). The effect of experimental conditions on the extraction, such as pH, stirring rate, sample volume, and extraction time were optimized. Under the optimal conditions, the performance of the proposed method was investigated for the determination of Pb (II) in food and water samples. The method was linear in the range of 0.6-3000μgmL -1 . The relative standard deviations and relative recovery of Pb (II) was 4.9% and 99.3%, respectively (n=5). Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. Raman Microspectroscopic Mapping with Multivariate Curve Resolution-Alternating Least Squares (MCR-ALS) Applied to the High-Pressure Polymorph of Titanium Dioxide, TiO2-II.

    PubMed

    Smith, Joseph P; Smith, Frank C; Ottaway, Joshua; Krull-Davatzes, Alexandra E; Simonson, Bruce M; Glass, Billy P; Booksh, Karl S

    2017-08-01

    The high-pressure, α-PbO 2 -structured polymorph of titanium dioxide (TiO 2 -II) was recently identified in micrometer-sized grains recovered from four Neoarchean spherule layers deposited between ∼2.65 and ∼2.54 billion years ago. Several lines of evidence support the interpretation that these layers represent distal impact ejecta layers. The presence of shock-induced TiO 2 -II provides physical evidence to further support an impact origin for these spherule layers. Detailed characterization of the distribution of TiO 2 -II in these grains may be useful for correlating the layers, estimating the paleodistances of the layers from their source craters, and providing insight into the formation of the TiO 2 -II. Here we report the investigation of TiO 2 -II-bearing grains from these four spherule layers using multivariate curve resolution-alternating least squares (MCR-ALS) applied to Raman microspectroscopic mapping. Raman spectra provide evidence of grains consisting primarily of rutile (TiO 2 ) and TiO 2 -II, as shown by Raman bands at 174 cm -1 (TiO 2 -II), 426 cm -1 (TiO 2 -II), 443 cm -1 (rutile), and 610 cm -1 (rutile). Principal component analysis (PCA) yielded a predominantly three-phase system comprised of rutile, TiO 2 -II, and substrate-adhesive epoxy. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) suggests heterogeneous grains containing polydispersed micrometer- and submicrometer-sized particles. Multivariate curve resolution-alternating least squares applied to the Raman microspectroscopic mapping yielded up to five distinct chemical components: three phases of TiO 2 (rutile, TiO 2 -II, and anatase), quartz (SiO 2 ), and substrate-adhesive epoxy. Spectral profiles and spatially resolved chemical maps of the pure chemical components were generated using MCR-ALS applied to the Raman microspectroscopic maps. The spatial resolution of the Raman microspectroscopic maps was enhanced in comparable, cost-effective analysis times by limiting spectral resolution and optimizing spectral acquisition parameters. Using the resolved spectra of TiO 2 -II generated from MCR-ALS analysis, a Raman spectrum for pure TiO 2 -II was estimated to further facilitate its identification.

  6. Cargo transportation by airships: a systems study. Final report

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Huang, C.J.; Dalton, C.

    1976-05-01

    A systems engineering study of a lighter than air airship transportation system was conducted. The feasibility of the use of airships in hauling cargo was demonstrated. Social, legal, environmental and political factors were considered as well as the technical factors necessary to design an effective airship transportation system. In order to accomplish an effective airship transportation program two phases of implementation were recommended. Phase I would involve a fleet of rigid airships of 3.5 million cubic feet displacement capable of carrying 25 tons of cargo internal to the helium-filled gas bag. The Phase I fleet would demonstrate the economic andmore » technical feasibility of modern-day airships while providing a training capability for the construction and operation of larger airships. The Phase II portion would be a fleet of rigid airships of 12 million cubic feet displacement capable of carrying a cargo of 100 tons a distance of 2,000 miles at a cruising speed of 60 mph. An economic analysis is given for a variety of missions for both Phase I and Phase II airships.« less

  7. Cargo transportation by airships: A systems study

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Huang, C. J.; Dalton, C.

    1976-01-01

    A systems engineering study of a lighter than air airship transportation system was conducted. The feasibility of the use of airships in hauling cargo was demonstrated. Social, legal, environmental and political factors were considered as well as the technical factors necessary to design an effective airship transportation system. In order to accomplish an effective airship transportation program two phases of implementation were recommended. Phase I would involve a fleet of rigid airships of 3.5 million cubic feet displacement capable of carrying 25 tons of cargo internal to the helium-filled gas bag. The Phase I fleet would demonstrate the economic and technical feasibility of modern-day airships while providing a training capability for the construction and operation of larger airships. The Phase II portion would be a fleet of rigid airships of 12 million cubic feet displacement capable of carrying a cargo of 100 tons a distance of 2,000 miles at a cruising speed of 60 mph. An economic analysis is given for a variety of missions for both Phase I and Phase II airships.

  8. Dye-doped nanostructure polypyrrole film for electrochemically switching solid-phase microextraction of Ni(II) and ICP-OES analysis of waste water.

    PubMed

    Shamaeli, Ehsan; Alizadeh, Naader

    2012-01-01

    A nanostructure fiber based on conducting polypyrrole synthesized by an electrochemical method has been developed, and used for electrochemically switching solid-phase microextraction (ES-SPME). The ES-SPME was prepared by the doping of eriochrome blue in polypyrrole (PPy-ECB) and used for selectively extracting the Ni(II) cation in the presence of some transition and heavy metal ions. The cation-exchange behavior of electrochemically prepared polypyrrole on stainless-steel with and without eriochrome blue (ECB) dye was characterized using ICP-OES analysis. The effects of the scan rate for electrochemical synthesis, uptake and the release potential on the extraction behavior of the PPy-ECB conductive fiber were studied. Uptake and release time profiles show that the process of electrically switched cation exchange could be completed within 250 s. The results of the present study point concerning the possibility of developing a selective extraction process for Ni(II) from waste water was explored using such a nanostructured PPy-ECB film through an electrically switched cation exchange. 2012 © The Japan Society for Analytical Chemistry

  9. I. Final Report for DOE SBIR Phase I Project DE-SC0013795 Final Report for DOE SBIR Phase I Project DE-SC0013795 Microtron-based Compact, Portable Gamma-Ray Source

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Abrams, Robert J.

    Microtron-based Compact, Portable Gamma-Ray Source. The objective of Phase I of this project was to produce a conceptual design of a prototype compact microtron electron accelerator, which could be designed, built, and demonstrated in Phase II of the project. The conceptual design study included an analysis of the parameters of the microtron and its components, and the expected performance of the prototype microtron as a source of x-rays and/or RF neutrons in the MeV energy range. The major components of the microtron are the magnet, the accelerating system, the power system, the vacuum system, the control system, the beam extractionmore » system and the targets to produce x-rays (and/or neutrons). Our objectives for the design of the prototype were for it to be compact, cost-effective, capable of producing high intensity x-ray (an/or neutron) fluxes. In addition, the prototype was to be easily assembled and disassembled so that components could be easily replaced. The main parameters for the prototype are the following: the range of electron kinetic energies, the output power, the RF frequency band (X-band, C-band, or S-Band), the type of injection (Type I or Type II), the magnet type, i.e. permanent magnet, electromagnet, or a hybrid combination of permanent and electromagnet. The results of the Phase I study and analysis for a prototype microtron are the following: The electron energy range can be varied from below 6 MeV to 9 MeV, the optimal frequency range is S-Band (2-4 GHz) RF frequency, Type II injection (described below), and the magnet type is the hybrid version. The prototype version will be capable of producing gamma ray doses of ~1800 R/min-m and neutron fluxes of up to ~6 x 10 10 n/s with appropriate targets. The results of the Phase I study and analysis are provided below. The proposed Phase II plan was to demonstrate the prototype at low beam power. In the subsequent Phase III, high power tests would be performed, and the design of commercial versions of microtrons with various energies, sizes and types would be produced and marketed, including a more compact and more portable 6 MeV battery-powered model that more closely meets the requirements in the original FOA topic description. In the course of the Phase I study, we also identified another microtron version, one that was larger (not compact) and more powerful than that of the Phase II prototype, which could serve as an intense source of photo- neutrons, up to 4 x 10 12 n/s for use in nuclear medicine, short-lived isotope production, or other applications. In addition, it could produce gamma dose rates up to 130 kR/min-m with a heavy metal bremsstrahlung target. The results and specifications of this were submitted to IPAC16 (Reference [12]) the paper is included in Addendum B. Because this version was beyond the scope of the Phase I project, there is no additional description in the Final Report.« less

  10. Ligandless surfactant mediated solid phase extraction combined with Fe₃O₄ nano-particle for the preconcentration and determination of cadmium and lead in water and soil samples followed by flame atomic absorption spectrometry: multivariate strategy.

    PubMed

    Jalbani, N; Soylak, M

    2014-04-01

    In the present study, a microextraction technique combining Fe3O4 nano-particle with surfactant mediated solid phase extraction ((SM-SPE)) was successfully developed for the preconcentration/separation of Cd(II) and Pb(II) in water and soil samples. The analytes were determined by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). The effective variables such as the amount of adsorbent (NPs), the pH, concentration of non-ionic (TX-114) and centrifugation time (min) were investigated by Plackett-Burman (PBD) design. The important variables were further optimized by central composite design (CCD). Under the optimized conditions, the detection limits (LODs) of Cd(II) and Pb(II) were 0.15 and 0.74 µg/L, respectively. The validation of the proposed procedure was checked by the analysis of certified reference materials of TMDA 53.3 fortified water and GBW07425 soil. The method was successfully applied for the determination of Cd(II) and Pb(II) in water and soil samples. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  11. Geotechnical information database - phase II.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2013-05-01

    The Louisiana Department of Transportation (LADOTD) has been collecting geotechnical data for : many years in a variety of different formats. Accessing this data and combining it with new data for : the purpose of design, analysis, visualization, and...

  12. Histopathological image analysis of chemical-induced hepatocellular hypertrophy in mice.

    PubMed

    Asaoka, Yoshiji; Togashi, Yuko; Mutsuga, Mayu; Imura, Naoko; Miyoshi, Tomoya; Miyamoto, Yohei

    2016-04-01

    Chemical-induced hepatocellular hypertrophy is frequently observed in rodents, and is mostly caused by the induction of phase I and phase II drug metabolic enzymes and peroxisomal lipid metabolic enzymes. Liver weight is a sensitive and commonly used marker for detecting hepatocellular hypertrophy, but is also increased by a number of other factors. Histopathological observations subjectively detect changes such as hepatocellular hypertrophy based on the size of a hepatocyte. Therefore, quantitative microscopic observations are required to evaluate histopathological alterations objectively. In the present study, we developed a novel quantitative method for an image analysis of hepatocellular hypertrophy using liver sections stained with hematoxylin and eosin, and demonstrated its usefulness for evaluating hepatocellular hypertrophy induced by phenobarbital (a phase I and phase II enzyme inducer) and clofibrate (a peroxisomal enzyme inducer) in mice. The algorithm of this imaging analysis was designed to recognize an individual hepatocyte through a combination of pixel-based and object-based analyses. Hepatocellular nuclei and the surrounding non-hepatocellular cells were recognized by the pixel-based analysis, while the areas of the recognized hepatocellular nuclei were then expanded until they ran against their expanding neighboring hepatocytes and surrounding non-hepatocellular cells by the object-based analysis. The expanded area of each hepatocellular nucleus was regarded as the size of an individual hepatocyte. The results of this imaging analysis showed that changes in the sizes of hepatocytes corresponded with histopathological observations in phenobarbital and clofibrate-treated mice, and revealed a correlation between hepatocyte size and liver weight. In conclusion, our novel image analysis method is very useful for quantitative evaluations of chemical-induced hepatocellular hypertrophy. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

  13. Abiotic transformation of high explosives by freshly precipitated iron minerals in aqueous Fe¹¹ solutions

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Boparai, Hardiljeet K.; Comfort, Steve; Satapanajaru, Tunlawit

    Zerovalent iron barriers have become a viable treatment for field-scale cleanup of various ground water contaminants. While contact with the iron surface is important for contaminant destruction, the interstitial pore water within and near the iron barrier will be laden with aqueous, adsorbed and precipitated FeII phases. These freshly precipitated iron minerals could play an important role in transforming high explosives (HE). Our objective was to determine the transformation of RDX (hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine), HMX (octahydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine), and TNT (2,4,6-trinitrotoluene) by freshly precipitated iron FeII/FeIII minerals. This was accomplished by quantifying the effects of initial FeII concentration, pH, and the presence of aquifermore » solids (FeIII phases) on HE transformation rates. Results showed that at pH 8.2, freshly precipitated iron minerals transformed RDX, HMX, and TNT with reaction rates increasing with increasing FeII concentrations. RDX and HMX transformations in these solutions also increased with increasing pH (5.8-8.55). By contrast, TNT transformation was not influenced by pH (6.85-8.55) except at pH values <6.35. Transformations observed via LC/MS included a variety of nitroso products (RDX, HMX) and amino degradation products (TNT). XRD analysis identified green rust and magnetite as the dominant iron solid phases that precipitated from the aqueous FeII during HE treatment under anaerobic conditions. Geochemical modeling also predicted FeII activity would likely be controlled by green rust and magnetite. These results illustrate the important role freshly precipitated FeII/FeIII minerals in aqueous FeII solutions play in the transformation of high explosives.« less

  14. 47 CFR 69.727 - Regulatory relief.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... customer. (b) Phase II relief. Upon satisfaction of the Phase II triggers specified in §§ 69.709(c) or 69... Pricing Flexibility § 69.727 Regulatory relief. (a) Phase I relief. Upon satisfaction of the Phase I... similarly situated customers; and (ii) The price cap LEC excludes all contract tariff offerings from price...

  15. Small Changes and Lasting Effects (SCALE) Trial: The Formation of a Weight Loss Behavioral Intervention Using EVOLVE

    PubMed Central

    Phillips-Caesar, Erica G.; Winston, Ginger; Peterson, Janey C.; Wansink, Brian; Devine, Carol M.; Kanna, Balavanketsh; Michelin, Walid; Wethington, Elaine; Wells, Martin; Hollenberg, James; Charlson, Mary E.

    2015-01-01

    Background Obesity is a major health problem that disproportionately affects Black and Hispanic adults. This paper presents the rationale and innovative design of a small change eating and physical activity intervention (SC) combined with a positive affect and self-affirmation (PA/SA) intervention versus the SC intervention alone for weight loss. Methods Using a mixed methods translational model (EVOLVE), we designed and tested a SC approach intervention in overweight and/ or obese African American and Hispanic adults. In Phase I, we explored participant’s values and beliefs about the small change approach. In Phase II, we tested and refined the intervention and then, in Phase III we conducted a RCT. Participants were randomized to the SC approach with PA/SA intervention vs. a SC approach alone for 12 months. The primary outcome was clinically significant weight loss at 12 months. Results Over 4.5 years a total of 574 participants (67 in Phase I, 102 in Phase II and 405 in Phase III) were enrolled. Phase I findings were used to create a workbook based on real life experiences about weight loss and to refine the small change eating strategies. Phase II results shaped the recruitment and retention strategy for the RCT, as well as the final intervention. The RCT results are currently under analysis. Conclusion The present study seeks to determine if a SC approach combined with a PA/SA intervention will result in greater weight loss at 12 months in Black and Hispanic adults compared to a SC approach alone. PMID:25633208

  16. An integrated bioremediation process for petroleum hydrocarbons removal and odor mitigation from contaminated marine sediment.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Zhen; Lo, Irene M C; Yan, Dickson Y S

    2015-10-15

    This study developed a novel integrated bioremediation process for the removal of petroleum hydrocarbons and the mitigation of odor induced by reduced sulfur from contaminated marine sediment. The bioremediation process consisted of two phases. In Phase I, acetate was dosed into the sediment as co-substrate to facilitate the sulfate reduction process. Meanwhile, akaganeite (β-FeOOH) was dosed in the surface layer of the sediment to prevent S(2-) release into the overlying seawater. In Phase II, NO3(-) was injected into the sediment as an electron acceptor to facilitate the denitrification process. After 20 weeks of treatment, the sequential integration of the sulfate reduction and denitrification processes led to effective biodegradation of total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH), in which about 72% of TPH was removed. In Phase I, the release of S(2-) was effectively controlled by the addition of akaganeite. The oxidation of S(2-) by Fe(3+) and the precipitation of S(2-) by Fe(2+) were the main mechanisms for S(2-) removal. In Phase II, the injection of NO3(-) completely inhibited the sulfate reduction process. Most of residual AVS and S(0) were removed within 4 weeks after NO3(-) injection. The 16S rRNA clone library-based analysis revealed a distinct shift of bacterial community structure in the sediment over different treatment phases. The clones affiliated with Desulfobacterales and Desulfuromonadales were the most abundant in Phase I, while the clones related to Thioalkalivibrio sulfidophilus, Thiohalomonas nitratireducens and Sulfurimonas denitrificans predominated in Phase II. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  17. Effect of patient-centered communication training on discussion and detection of nonadherence in glaucoma.

    PubMed

    Hahn, Steven R; Friedman, David S; Quigley, Harry A; Kotak, Sameer; Kim, Elizabeth; Onofrey, Meaghan; Eagan, Corey; Mardekian, Jack

    2010-07-01

    To assess communication about adherence and to determine the impact of communication skills training on physicians' approach to nonadherence. Sociolinguistic analysis of videotaped community ophthalmologists' encounters with patients with glaucoma before and after training. Patients in both phases and physicians in phase I knew communication was being studied but not what the focus of the study was. In phase II, physicians knew the targeted communication behaviors. Twenty-three ophthalmologists and 100 regularly scheduled patients with glaucoma (50 per phase). An educational program with videotaped vignettes of simulated patient encounters using audience response and role play to teach patient-centered communication skills, including a 4-step adherence assessment and the use of open-ended questions in ask-tell-ask sequences. Physician eliciting an acknowledgment of nonadherence during a clinical encounter compared with acknowledgment of nonadherence during a postvisit research interview (primary outcome), and performance of targeted communication and substantive discussion of adherence. After intervention, physicians increased the proportion of open-ended questions (15% vs 6%; P = 0.001) and specifically about medication taking (82% compared with 18% of encounters; P<0.001). Compared with the absence of ask-tell-ask communication, 32% of phase II encounters included a complete ask-tell-ask sequence, 78% included an ask-tell sequence, and 32% a tell-ask sequence (P<0.001). Three of 4 steps for assessment of adherence were more common in phase II, and substantial discussions of adherence occurred in 86% versus 30% of encounters (P<0.001). In phase II, physicians elicited acknowledgment of nonadherence in 78% (7/9) of those who acknowledged nonadherence in the postvisit interview compared with 25% in phase I (3/12; P = 0.03). This study demonstrates that experienced community physicians significantly improved their communication strategies and ability to detect and address nonadherence after a 3-hour educational program. Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found after the references. Copyright 2010 American Academy of Ophthalmology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. Cancer trial enrollment after state-mandated reimbursement.

    PubMed

    Gross, C P; Murthy, V; Li, Y; Kaluzny, A D; Krumholz, H M

    2004-07-21

    Recruitment of patients into cancer research studies is exceedingly difficult, particularly for early phase trials. Payer reimbursement policies are a frequently cited barrier. We examined whether state policies that ensure coverage of routine medical care costs for cancer trial participants are associated with an increase in clinical trial enrollment. We used logistic Poisson regressions to analyze enrollment in National Cancer Institute phase II and phase III Clinical Trials Cooperative Group trials and compared changes in trial enrollment rates between 1996 and 2001 of privately insured cancer patients who resided in the four states that enacted coverage policies in 1999 with enrollment rates in states without such policies. All statistical tests were two-sided. Trial enrollment rates increased in the coverage and noncoverage states by 24.9% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 22.8% to 27.0%) and 28.8% (95% CI = 27.7% to 29.8%) per year, respectively, from 1996 through 2001. After implementation of the coverage policies in 1999 in four states, there was a 21.7% (95% CI = 3.8% to 42.6%) annual increase in phase II trial enrollment in coverage states, compared with a 15.6% (95% CI = 8.8% to 21.8%) annual decrease in noncoverage states (P<.001). After accounting for secular trend, cancer type, and race in multivariable analyses, the odds ratio (OR) for a phase II trial participant residing in a coverage versus a noncoverage state after 1999 was 1.59 per year (95% CI = 1.22 to 2.07; P =.001). In a multivariable analysis of phase III trial participation, there was a decrease in the odds of residing in a coverage state after 1999 (OR = 0.90, 95% CI = 0.84 to 0.98; P =.011). State coverage policies were associated with a statistically significant increase in phase II cancer trial participation and did not increase phase III cancer trial enrollment.

  19. 47 CFR 90.769 - Construction and implementation of Phase II nationwide licenses.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... Use of Frequencies in the 220-222 MHz Band Policies Governing the Licensing and Use of Phase II Ea, Regional and Nationwide Systems § 90.769 Construction and implementation of Phase II nationwide licenses...

  20. Summary Report on Phase I and Phase II Results From the 3D Printing in Zero-G Technology Demonstration Mission. Volume II

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Prater, T. J.; Werkheiser, N. J.; Ledbetter, F. E., III

    2018-01-01

    In-space manufacturing seeks to develop the processes, skill sets, and certification architecture needed to provide a rapid response manufacturing capability on long-duration exploration missions. The first 3D printer on the Space Station was developed by Made in Space, Inc. and completed two rounds of operation on orbit as part of the 3D Printing in Zero-G Technology Demonstration Mission. This Technical Publication provides a comprehensive overview of the technical objections of the mission, the two phases of hardware operation conducted on orbit, and the subsequent detailed analysis of specimens produced. No engineering significant evidence of microgravity effects on material outcomes was noted. This technology demonstration mission represents the first step in developing a suite of manufacturing capabilities to meet future mission needs.

  1. Barriers to participation in a phase II cardiac rehabilitation programme.

    PubMed

    Mak, Y M W; Chan, W K; Yue, C S S

    2005-12-01

    To identify barriers to participation in a phase II cardiac rehabilitation programme and measures that may enhance participation. Prospective study. Regional hospital, Hong Kong. Cardiac patients recruited for a phase I cardiac rehabilitation programme from July 2002 to January 2003. Reasons for not participating in a phase II cardiac rehabilitation programme. Of the 193 patients recruited for a phase I cardiac rehabilitation programme, 152 (79%) patients, with a mean age of 70.3 years (standard deviation, 11.9 years), did not proceed to phase II programme. Eleven (7%) deaths occurred before commencement of phase II and 74 (49%) patients were considered physically unfit. Reasons for the latter included fractures, pain, or degenerative changes in the lower limbs (24%), and co-morbidities such as cerebrovascular accident (19%), chronic renal failure (11%), congestive heart failure (9%), and unstable angina (8%). Phase II rehabilitation was postponed until after completion of scheduled cardiac interventions in 13% of patients. Failure of physicians to arrange the pre-phase II exercise stress test as per protocol was reported in 7% of patients. Other reasons were reported: work or time conflicts (16%), non-compliance with cardiac treatment (5%), financial constraints (4%), self-exercise (3%), fear after exercise stress testing (3%), and patients returning to their original cardiologists for treatment (3%). A significant (79%) proportion of patients did not proceed to a phase II cardiac rehabilitation programme for a variety of reasons. These included physical unfitness, work or time conflicts, and need to attend scheduled cardiac interventions. Further studies are required to determine how to overcome obstacles to cardiac rehabilitation.

  2. MesoNAM Verification Phase II

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Watson, Leela R.

    2011-01-01

    The 45th Weather Squadron Launch Weather Officers use the 12-km resolution North American Mesoscale model (MesoNAM) forecasts to support launch weather operations. In Phase I, the performance of the model at KSC/CCAFS was measured objectively by conducting a detailed statistical analysis of model output compared to observed values. The objective analysis compared the MesoNAM forecast winds, temperature, and dew point to the observed values from the sensors in the KSC/CCAFS wind tower network. In Phase II, the AMU modified the current tool by adding an additional 15 months of model output to the database and recalculating the verification statistics. The bias, standard deviation of bias, Root Mean Square Error, and Hypothesis test for bias were calculated to verify the performance of the model. The results indicated that the accuracy decreased as the forecast progressed, there was a diurnal signal in temperature with a cool bias during the late night and a warm bias during the afternoon, and there was a diurnal signal in dewpoint temperature with a low bias during the afternoon and a high bias during the late night.

  3. High-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry in the identification and determination of phase I and phase II drug metabolites

    PubMed Central

    Kolářová, L.; Nobilis, M.

    2008-01-01

    Applications of tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) techniques coupled with high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) in the identification and determination of phase I and phase II drug metabolites are reviewed with an emphasis on recent papers published predominantly within the last 6 years (2002–2007) reporting the employment of atmospheric pressure ionization techniques as the most promising approach for a sensitive detection, positive identification and quantitation of metabolites in complex biological matrices. This review is devoted to in vitro and in vivo drug biotransformation in humans and animals. The first step preceding an HPLC-MS bioanalysis consists in the choice of suitable sample preparation procedures (biomatrix sampling, homogenization, internal standard addition, deproteination, centrifugation, extraction). The subsequent step is the right optimization of chromatographic conditions providing the required separation selectivity, analysis time and also good compatibility with the MS detection. This is usually not accessible without the employment of the parent drug and synthesized or isolated chemical standards of expected phase I and sometimes also phase II metabolites. The incorporation of additional detectors (photodiode-array UV, fluorescence, polarimetric and others) between the HPLC and MS instruments can result in valuable analytical information supplementing MS results. The relation among the structural changes caused by metabolic reactions and corresponding shifts in the retention behavior in reversed-phase systems is discussed as supporting information for identification of the metabolite. The first and basic step in the interpretation of mass spectra is always the molecular weight (MW) determination based on the presence of protonated molecules [M+H]+ and sometimes adducts with ammonium or alkali-metal ions, observed in the positive-ion full-scan mass spectra. The MW determination can be confirmed by the [M-H]- ion for metabolites providing a signal in negative-ion mass spectra. MS/MS is a worthy tool for further structural characterization because of the occurrence of characteristic fragment ions, either MSn analysis for studying the fragmentation patterns using trap-based analyzers or high mass accuracy measurements for elemental composition determination using time of flight based or Fourier transform mass analyzers. The correlation between typical functional groups found in phase I and phase II drug metabolites and corresponding neutral losses is generalized and illustrated for selected examples. The choice of a suitable ionization technique and polarity mode in relation to the metabolite structure is discussed as well. PMID:18345532

  4. Identifying Effective Design Approaches to Allocate Genotypes in Two-Phase Designs: A Case Study in Pelargonium zonale

    PubMed Central

    Molenaar, Heike; Boehm, Robert; Piepho, Hans-Peter

    2018-01-01

    Robust phenotypic data allow adequate statistical analysis and are crucial for any breeding purpose. Such data is obtained from experiments laid out to best control local variation. Additionally, experiments frequently involve two phases, each contributing environmental sources of variation. For example, in a former experiment we conducted to evaluate production related traits in Pelargonium zonale, there were two consecutive phases, each performed in a different greenhouse. Phase one involved the propagation of the breeding strains to obtain the stem cutting count, and phase two involved the assessment of root formation. The evaluation of the former study raised questions regarding options for improving the experimental layout: (i) Is there a disadvantage to using exactly the same design in both phases? (ii) Instead of generating a separate layout for each phase, can the design be optimized across both phases, such that the mean variance of a pair-wise treatment difference (MVD) can be decreased? To answer these questions, alternative approaches were explored to generate two-phase designs either in phase-wise order (Option 1) or across phases (Option 2). In Option 1 we considered the scenarios (i) using in both phases the same experimental design and (ii) randomizing each phase separately. In Option 2, we considered the scenarios (iii) generating a single design with eight replicates and splitting these among the two phases, (iv) separating the block structure across phases by dummy coding, and (v) design generation with optimal alignment of block units in the two phases. In both options, we considered the same or different block structures in each phase. The designs were evaluated by the MVD obtained by the intra-block analysis and the joint inter-block–intra-block analysis. The smallest MVD was most frequently obtained for designs generated across phases rather than for each phase separately, in particular when both phases of the design were separated with a single pseudo-level. The joint optimization ensured that treatment concurrences were equally balanced across pairs, one of the prerequisites for an efficient design. The proposed alternative approaches can be implemented with any model-based design packages with facilities to formulate linear models for treatment and block structures. PMID:29354145

  5. Geotechnical information database - phase II : [technical summary].

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2013-05-01

    The Louisiana Department of Transportation (LADOTD) has collected geotechnical data for many years in a variety of diff erent formats. : Accessing this data and combining it with new data for the purpose of design, analysis, visualization, and report...

  6. CABLE MEDIAN BARRIER FAILURE ANALYSIS AND REMEDIATION, PHASE II

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2013-06-20

    On divided roadways, cross-median fatalities are disproportionately overrepresented in fatal and serious injury crashes. Many state DOTs sought to mitigate cross-median crash risk by installing cable median barriers. Despite increased crash rates, st...

  7. Sundstrand’s Precision Metal Forming Cell. Industrial Modernization Incentive Program (IMIP). Phase 2

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1991-03-01

    1-2 1.4 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ....................... 1-2 20. PHASE II MANAGEMENT PLAN...2-1 2.1 PROGRAM MANAGEMENT ................................... 2-1 2.2 IM IP TEAM...Barbier, reference Section 2.0 (Phase II Management Plan), is complete and this report provides the results of the Phase II study. 1.2 OBJECTIVES The

  8. What Works in Oklahoma Schools: A Comprehensive Needs Assessment of Oklahoma Schools. Phase II State Report

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Marzano Research Laboratory, 2010

    2010-01-01

    Phase II provides a more detailed examination of classroom variables important to achievement in Oklahoma schools. Where Phase I addressed all nine of the Oklahoma essential elements using survey data, Phase II focuses on what occurs in Oklahoma classrooms primarily using data from principal interviews, classroom observations (on-site), and video…

  9. SPORE/EDRN/PRE-PLCO Ovarian Phase II Validation Study — EDRN Public Portal

    Cancer.gov

    Create a new set of phase II specimens (160 cases with pre-operative bloods representing major histologic types and including 80 early-staged and 80 late-staged cases, 160 controls with benign disease, 480 general population controls, and a small set of serial Samples collected either at least 3 months apart, but not more than 6 months apart OR between 10 months apart and no more than 14 months apart in 40 healthy controls) will be used to evaluate markers identified in preliminary work. The top 5-10 markers, plus an expanded panel of Luminex markers, will comprise a “working consensus panel” for subsequent analysis in PLCO specimens.

  10. Three copies of a single protein II-encoding sequence in the genome of Neisseria gonorrhoeae JS3: evidence for gene conversion and gene duplication.

    PubMed

    van der Ley, P

    1988-11-01

    Gonococci express a family of related outer membrane proteins designated protein II (P.II). These surface proteins are subject to both phase variation and antigenic variation. The P.II gene repertoire of Neisseria gonorrhoeae strain JS3 was found to consist of at least ten genes, eight of which were cloned. Sequence analysis and DNA hybridization studies revealed that one particular P.II-encoding sequence is present in three distinct, but almost identical, copies in the JS3 genome. These genes encode the P.II protein that was previously identified as P.IIc. Comparison of their sequences shows that the multiple copies of this P.IIc-encoding gene might have been generated by both gene conversion and gene duplication.

  11. Alabama Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Project

    PubMed Central

    Holman, William L.; Sansom, Monique; Kiefe, Catarina I.; Peterson, Eric D.; Hubbard, Steve G.; Delong, James F.; Allman, Richard M.

    2004-01-01

    Objective/Background: This report describes the first round of results for Phase II of the Alabama CABG Project, a regional quality improvement initiative. Methods: Charts submitted by all hospitals in Alabama performing CABG (ICD-9 codes 36.10–36.20) were reviewed by a Clinical Data Abstraction Center (CDAC) (preintervention 1999–2000; postintervention 2000–2001). Variables that described quality in Phase I were abstracted for Phase II and data describing the new variables of β-blocker use and lipid management were collected. Data samples collected onsite by participating hospitals were used for rapid cycle improvement in Phase II. Results: CDAC data (n = 1927 cases in 1999; n = 2001 cases in 2000) showed that improvements from Phase I in aspirin prescription, internal mammary artery use, and duration of intubation persisted in Phase II. During Phase II, use of β-blockers before, during, or after CABG increased from 65% to 76% of patients (P < 0.05). Appropriate lipid management, an aggregate variable, occurred in 91% of patients before and 91% after the educational intervention. However, there were improvements in 3 of 5 subcategories for lipid management (documenting a lipid disorder [52%–57%], initiating drug therapy [45%–53%], and dietary counseling [74%–91%]; P < 0.05). Conclusions: In Phase II, this statewide process-oriented quality improvement program added two new measures of quality. Achievements of quality improvement from Phase I persisted in Phase II, and improvements were seen in the new variables of lipid management and perioperative use of β-blockers. PMID:14685107

  12. Electric Utility Phase I Acid Rain Compliance Strategies for the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990

    EIA Publications

    1994-01-01

    The Acid Rain Program is divided into two time periods; Phase I, from 1995 through 1999, and Phase II, starting in 2000. Phase I mostly affects power plants that are the largest sources of SO2 and NOx . Phase II affects virtually all electric power producers, including utilities and nonutilities. This report is a study of the effects of compliance with Phase I regulations on the costs and operations of electric utilities, but does not address any Phase II impacts.

  13. Durability of lightweight concrete : Phase II : wetting and drying tests, Phase III : freezing and thawing tests.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1966-12-01

    This report describes a laboratory research program on the durability of lightweight concrete. Two phases of a three phase study are covered by this report, while the remaining phase is still under study. The two phases being reported are Phase II - ...

  14. A dispersive liquid--liquid microextraction methodology for copper (II) in environmental samples prior to determination using microsample injection flame atomic absorption spectrometry.

    PubMed

    Alothman, Zeid A; Habila, Mohamed; Yilmaz, Erkan; Soylak, Mustafa

    2013-01-01

    A simple, environmentally friendly, and efficient dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction method combined with microsample injection flame atomic absorption spectrometry was developed for the separation and preconcentration of Cu(II). 2-(5-Bromo-2-pyridylazo)-5-(diethylamino)phenol (5-Br-PADAP) was used to form a hydrophobic complex of Cu(II) ions in the aqueous phase before extraction. To extract the Cu(II)-5-Br-PADAP complex from the aqueous phase to the organic phase, 2.0 mL of acetone as a disperser solvent and 200 microL of chloroform as an extraction solvent were used. The influences of important analytical parameters, such as the pH, types and volumes of the extraction and disperser solvents, amount of chelating agent, sample volume, and matrix effects, on the microextraction procedure were evaluated and optimized. Using the optimal conditions, the LOD, LOQ, preconcentration factor, and RSD were determined to be 1.4 microg/L, 4.7 microg/L, 120, and 6.5%, respectively. The accuracy of the proposed method was investigated using standard addition/recovery tests. The analysis of certified reference materials produced satisfactory analytical results. The developed method was applied for the determination of Cu in real samples.

  15. Vortex assisted solid-phase extraction of lead(II) using orthorhombic nanosized Bi2WO6 as a sorbent.

    PubMed

    Baghban, Neda; Yilmaz, Erkan; Soylak, Mustafa

    2017-12-07

    Nanosized single crystal orthorhombic Bi 2 WO 6 was synthesized by a hydrothermal method and used as a sorbent for vortex assisted solid phase extraction of lead(II). The crystal and molecular structure of the sorbent was examined using XRD, Raman, SEM and SEM-EDX analysis. Various parameters affecting extraction efficiency were optimized by using multivariate design. The effect of diverse ions on the extraction also was studied. Lead was quantified by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). The recoveries of lead(II) from spiked samples (at a typical spiking level of 200-400 ng·mL -1 ) are >95%. Other figures of merit includes (a) a detection limit of 6 ng·mL -1 , (b) a preconcentration factor of 50, (c) a relative standard deviation of 1.6%, and (d) and adsorption capacity of 6.6 mg·g -1 . The procedure was successfully applied to accurate determination of lead in (spiked) pomegranate and water samples. Graphical abstract Nanosized single crystal orthorhombic Bi 2 WO 6 was synthesized and characterized by a hydrothermal method and used as a sorbent for vortex assisted solid phase extraction of lead(II). The procedure was successfully applied to accurate determination of lead in (spiked) pomegranate and water samples.

  16. Ion Conduction Path and Low-Temperature Form:. Argyrodite-Type Superionic Conductors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Onoda, M.; Wada, H.; Sato, A.; Ishii, M.

    2007-01-01

    The structures of the orthorhombic room-temperature phase of Cu8GeS6 (phase II) and the monoclinic low-temperature phase of Ag7TaS6 (phase II) have been successfully refined based on X-ray diffraction data from 12-fold twinned (Cu8GeS6 II) and 24-fold twinned (Ag7TaS6 II) crystals. Respectively among 6 major and 6 minor twin domains of Cu8GeS6 II, or among 12 major and 12 minor twin domains of Ag7TaS6 II, the argyrodite-type frameworks, GeS6 or TaS6, can be superposed to each other in principle, and only Cu-Cu or Ag-Ag network directions differ. At higher temperature, the crystals were considered to be 2-fold twinned crystals of superionic-conductor phase I with a space group F 43m. On cooling, each domain transforms into 6 domains of orthorhombic Cu8GeS6 II or 12 domains of monoclinic Ag7TaS6 II. Superposed projections along 6 directions of the structure of Cu8GeS6 II and along 12 directions of the structure of Ag7TaS6 II seem to show approximate expressions for Cu-ion and Ag-ion conduction paths in superionic-conductor phases, Cu8GeS6 I and Ag7TaS6I.

  17. Systemic synergism between codeine and morphine in three pain models in mice.

    PubMed

    Miranda, Hugo F; Noriega, Viviana; Zepeda, Ramiro J; Sierralta, Fernando; Prieto, Juan C

    2013-01-01

    The combination of two analgesic agents offers advantages in pain treatment. Codeine and morphine analgesia is due to activation of opioid receptor subtypes. This study, performed in mice using isobolographic analysis, evaluated the type of interaction in intraperitoneal (ip) or intrathecal (it) coadministration of codeine and morphine, in three nociceptive behavioral models. Intrathecal morphine resulted to be 7.5 times more potent than ip morphine in the writhing test, 55.6 times in the tail flick test and 1.7 times in phase II of the orofacial formalin test; however, in phase I of the same test ip was 1.2 times more potent than it morphine. Intrathecal codeine resulted being 3.4 times more potent than ip codeine in the writhing test, 1.6 times in the tail flick test, 2.5 times in phase I and 6.7 times in phase II of the orofacial formalin test. Opioid coadministration had a synergistic effect in the acute tonic pain (acetic acid writhing test), acute phasic pain (tail flick test) and inflammatory pain (orofacial formalin test). The interaction index ranged between 0.284 (writhing ip) and 0.440 (orofacial formalin phase II ip). This synergy may relate to the different pathways of pain transmission and to the different intracellular signal transduction. The present findings also raise the possibility of potential clinical advantages in combining opioids in pain management.

  18. Background Characterization and Discrimination in the Final Analysis of the CDMS II Phase of the Cryogenic Dark Matter Search

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Fritts, Matthew C.

    The Cryogenic Dark Matter Search (CDMS) is designed to detectWeakly-Interacting Massive Particles (WIMPs) in the Milky Way halo. The phase known as CDMS II was performed in the Soudan Underground Laboratory. The final set of CDMS II data, collected in 2007-8 and referred to as Runs 125-8, represents the largest exposure to date for the experiment. We seek collisions between WIMPs and atomic nuclei in disk-shaped germanium and silicon detectors. A key design feature is to keep the rate of collisions from known particles producing WIMP-like signals very small. The largest category of such background is interactions with electrons inmore » the detectors that occur very close to one of the faces of the detector. The next largest category is collisions between energetic neutrons that bypass the experimental shielding and nuclei in the detectors. Analytical efforts to discriminate these backgrounds and to estimate the rate at which such discrimination fails have been refined and improved throughout each phase of CDMS. Next-generation detectors for future phases of CDMS require testing at cryogenic test facilities. One such facility was developed at the University of Minnesota in 2007 and has been used continuously since then to test detectors for the next phase of the experiment, known as SuperCDMS.« less

  19. Benzocaine polymorphism: pressure-temperature phase diagram involving forms II and III.

    PubMed

    Gana, Inès; Barrio, Maria; Do, Bernard; Tamarit, Josep-Lluís; Céolin, René; Rietveld, Ivo B

    2013-11-18

    Understanding the phase behavior of an active pharmaceutical ingredient in a drug formulation is required to avoid the occurrence of sudden phase changes resulting in decrease of bioavailability in a marketed product. Benzocaine is known to possess three crystalline polymorphs, but their stability hierarchy has so far not been determined. A topological method and direct calorimetric measurements under pressure have been used to construct the topological pressure-temperature diagram of the phase relationships between the solid phases II and III, the liquid, and the vapor phase. In the process, the transition temperature between solid phases III and II and its enthalpy change have been determined. Solid phase II, which has the highest melting point, is the more stable phase under ambient conditions in this phase diagram. Surprisingly, solid phase I has not been observed during the study, even though the scarce literature data on its thermal behavior appear to indicate that it might be the most stable one of the three solid phases. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. ASR-9 processor augmentation card (9-PAC) phase II scan-scan correlator algorithms

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2001-04-26

    The report documents the scan-scan correlator (tracker) algorithm developed for Phase II of the ASR-9 Processor Augmentation Card (9-PAC) project. The improved correlation and tracking algorithms in 9-PAC Phase II decrease the incidence of false-alar...

  1. The vertical propagation of waves in the solar atmosphere. II Phase delays in the quiet chromosphere and cell-network distinctions

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Lites, B. W.; Chipman, E. G.; White, O. R.

    1982-01-01

    The differences in the phase of the velocity oscillations between a pair of chromospheric Ca II lines was measured using the Vacuum Tower Telescope at the Sacramento Peak Observatory. The observed phase differences indicate that the acoustic modes are trapped or envanescent, rather than propagating, in the chromosphere. Systematic distinctions are found in the phase delays between quiet network and cell interior regions for both intensity and velocity oscillations in photospheric and chromospheric lines. The theory of linear perturbations in an isothermal atmosphere is invoked to interpret these differences. From this analysis it is found that one or more of the following explanations is possible: (1) the radiative damping is more effective in the network than in the cell interior; (2) the network features exclude oscillations of large horizontal wavenumber; or (3) the scale height of the chromosphere is larger in the network than in the cell interior.

  2. Phase Variation Analysis of Coxiella burnetii during Serial Passage in Cell Culture by Use of Monoclonal Antibodies

    PubMed Central

    Hotta, Akitoyo; Kawamura, Midori; To, Ho; Andoh, Masako; Yamaguchi, Tsuyoshi; Fukushi, Hideto; Hirai, Katsuya

    2002-01-01

    Antigenic changes in Coxiella burnetii Nine Mile strain phase I during serial passages in cell culture were analyzed with three groups of monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) against lipopolysaccharide. The MAbs of group 1 did not react with organisms that were passaged over five times, and the MAbs of group 2 did not react with organisms that were passaged over eight times. The MAbs of group 3 reacted with organisms passaged up to 15 times but did not react with phase II cells. These results suggest that C. burnetii could be differentiated into four phase states during phase variation. PMID:12117996

  3. Superpave in-situ stress/strain investigation--phase II : vol. IV, mechanistic analysis and implementation.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2009-05-01

    The characterization of materials is an intergral part of the overall effort to validate the Superpave system and to calibrate the performance prdeictionmodels for the environmental conditions observed in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

  4. Oversize/overweight permitting practices review : phase II.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2013-02-01

    This study explores a more detailed analysis of the permitting process in the Mid-Atlantic Region and : delves into operational practice, and theory and history of the practice among states. The states : practices examined in greater detail include C...

  5. Geotechnical information database - Phase II : research project capsule.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2011-03-01

    The Louisiana Department of Transportation (LADOTD) has been collecting : geotechnical data for many years in a variety of diff erent formats. Accessing this data : and combining it with new data for the purpose of design, analysis, visualization, an...

  6. AACR 2010: Strategy for Mapping of 20 Cancers - TCGA

    Cancer.gov

    TCGA held an NCI-sponsored session at the American Association for Cancer Research's (AACR) 101st Annual Meeting 2010 to address the program’s Phase II structure and strategies for sample acquisition, evolving technologies, data management and analysis.

  7. A platform for proactive, risk-based slope asset management, phase II.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2015-03-01

    The lidar visualization technique developed by this project enables highway managers to understand changes in slope characteristics : along highways. This change detection and analysis can be the basis of informed decisions for slope inspection and r...

  8. A platform for proactive, risk-based slope asset management, phase II.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2015-08-01

    The lidar visualization technique developed by this project enables highway managers to understand changes : in slope characteristics along highways. This change detection and analysis can be the basis of informed : decisions for slope inspection and...

  9. The GERDA experiment: results and perspectives

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Macolino, Carla; Gerda Collaboration

    2014-11-01

    The Germanium Detector Array, GERDA, at Laboratori Nazionali del Gran Sasso (Italy), is designed to search for Majorana neutrinos via neutrinoless double beta (0νββ) decay of 76Ge. GERDA completed the Phase I in 2013, after an exposure of 21.6 kg·yr and with a background of about 0.01 cts/(keVkgyr): no signal was found and a limit on the half-life of T0ν1/2 > 2.1 · 1025 yr (90% C.L.) was established. The previous claim of 0νββ observation for 76Ge is strongly disfavoured in a model independent way. The commission for GERDA Phase II is currently ongoing and about 20 kg of additional enriched Ge diodes will be deployed. Pulse- shape analysis, together with the liquid argon instrumentation will allow to reach a background level one order of magnitude lower than in Phase I. In this paper the measurement of the half-life of 0νββ decay from GERDA Phase I and the expected sensitivity for Phase II are discussed.

  10. Practical implementation of the double linear damage rule and damage curve approach for treating cumulative fatigue damage

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Manson, S. S.; Halford, G. R.

    1981-01-01

    Simple procedures are given for treating cumulative fatigue damage under complex loading history using either the damage curve concept or the double linear damage rule. A single equation is given for use with the damage curve approach; each loading event providing a fraction of damage until failure is presumed to occur when the damage sum becomes unity. For the double linear damage rule, analytical expressions are given for determining the two phases of life. The procedure comprises two steps, each similar to the conventional application of the commonly used linear damage rule. Once the sum of cycle ratios based on Phase I lives reaches unity, Phase I is presumed complete, and further loadings are summed as cycle ratios based on Phase II lives. When the Phase II sum attains unity, failure is presumed to occur. It is noted that no physical properties or material constants other than those normally used in a conventional linear damage rule analysis are required for application of either of the two cumulative damage methods described. Illustrations and comparisons are discussed for both methods.

  11. Evaluation of diatomea algae Thalassiosira weissflogii sensitivity to chloride mercury and methylmercury by chlorophyll fluorescence analysis

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Graevskaya, E. E.; Antal, T. K.; Matorin, D. N.; Voronova, E. N.; Pogosyan, S. I.; Rubin, A. B.

    2003-05-01

    Measurement of chlorophyll fluorescence has been shown to be a rapid, non-invasive, and reliable method to assess photosynthetic performance in a changing environment. In our study, the pulseamplitude-modulation (PAM) - fluorometric method was used to evaluate the sensitivity to chloride mercury and methylmercury chloride of diatomea microalgae Thalassiosira weissflogii. We found that 10^{-6} and 10^{-7} M MeHg led to a slow decrease in the PS II activity following for prolonged lag phase, whereas the algae was not sensitive to the same concentrations of HgCl2. However observed PS II inactivation by methylmercury was not complete and about 10 percents ofthe cells kept the high level of PS II activity as it was shown by microfluorometric analysis. These cells could determine adaptation of algae to methylmercury effect. Both toxicants decreased the rate of PS II reparation, as well as increased a heat pathway of excitation dissipation in PS II antennae complex.

  12. Application of silica fume as a new SP-extractor for trace determination of Zn(II) and Cd(II) in pharmaceutical and environmental samples by square-wave anodic stripping voltammetry

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ahmed, Salwa A.; Gaber, Ahmed A. Abdel; Rahim, Asmaa M. Abdel

    2017-05-01

    In this work, silica fume (SF) is used as a solid-phase extractor for extraction of Zn(II) and Cd(II) from aqueous solutions. Characterization of SF is performed by Fourier transform infrared, X-ray diffraction, transmission and scanning electron microscopy. The optimum experimental conditions for the two metal ions are investigated using batch and column techniques. The maximum adsorption capacity values are found to be 54.13 and 121.28 mg g-1 at the optimum pH 6.0 and 8.0 for Zn(II) and Cd(II), respectively. The equilibrium data are analyzed using the Langmuir, Freundlich, and Temkin isotherms by nonlinear regression analysis. Also, the kinetics analysis revealed that the overall adsorption process is successfully fitted with the pseudo-second-order model. The method is applied for determination of the target metal ions in pharmaceutical and environmental samples using square-wave anodic stripping voltammetry. The limit of detection (LOD) values are 0.102 and 1.43 × 10-3 mg L-1 for Zn(II) and Cd(II), respectively. The percentage recovery values are 98.8-100.5 % which indicate the success of the proposed method for determination of Zn(II) and Cd(II) without interfering effects.

  13. Regeneration cycle and the covariant Lyapunov vectors in a minimal wall turbulence.

    PubMed

    Inubushi, Masanobu; Takehiro, Shin-ichi; Yamada, Michio

    2015-08-01

    Considering a wall turbulence as a chaotic dynamical system, we study regeneration cycles in a minimal wall turbulence from the viewpoint of orbital instability by employing the covariant Lyapunov analysis developed by [F. Ginelli et al. Phys. Rev. Lett. 99, 130601 (2007)]. We divide the regeneration cycle into two phases and characterize them with the local Lyapunov exponents and the covariant Lyapunov vectors of the Navier-Stokes turbulence. In particular, we show numerically that phase (i) is dominated by instabilities related to the sinuous mode and the streamwise vorticity, and there is no instability in phase (ii). Furthermore, we discuss a mechanism of the regeneration cycle, making use of an energy budget analysis.

  14. Laser beam projection with adaptive array of fiber collimators. II. Analysis of atmospheric compensation efficiency.

    PubMed

    Lachinova, Svetlana L; Vorontsov, Mikhail A

    2008-08-01

    We analyze the potential efficiency of laser beam projection onto a remote object in atmosphere with incoherent and coherent phase-locked conformal-beam director systems composed of an adaptive array of fiber collimators. Adaptive optics compensation of turbulence-induced phase aberrations in these systems is performed at each fiber collimator. Our analysis is based on a derived expression for the atmospheric-averaged value of the mean square residual phase error as well as direct numerical simulations. Operation of both conformal-beam projection systems is compared for various adaptive system configurations characterized by the number of fiber collimators, the adaptive compensation resolution, and atmospheric turbulence conditions.

  15. Determination of cadmium(II), cobalt(II), nickel(II), lead(II), zinc(II), and copper(II) in water samples using dual-cloud point extraction and inductively coupled plasma emission spectrometry.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Lingling; Zhong, Shuxian; Fang, Keming; Qian, Zhaosheng; Chen, Jianrong

    2012-11-15

    A dual-cloud point extraction (d-CPE) procedure has been developed for simultaneous pre-concentration and separation of heavy metal ions (Cd2+, Co2+, Ni2+, Pb2+, Zn2+, and Cu2+ ion) in water samples by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). The procedure is based on forming complexes of metal ion with 8-hydroxyquinoline (8-HQ) into the as-formed Triton X-114 surfactant rich phase. Instead of direct injection or analysis, the surfactant rich phase containing the complexes was treated by nitric acid, and the detected ions were back extracted again into aqueous phase at the second cloud point extraction stage, and finally determined by ICP-OES. Under the optimum conditions (pH=7.0, Triton X-114=0.05% (w/v), 8-HQ=2.0×10(-4) mol L(-1), HNO3=0.8 mol L(-1)), the detection limits for Cd2+, Co2+, Ni2+, Pb2+, Zn2+, and Cu2+ ions were 0.01, 0.04, 0.01, 0.34, 0.05, and 0.04 μg L(-1), respectively. Relative standard deviation (RSD) values for 10 replicates at 100 μg L(-1) were lower than 6.0%. The proposed method could be successfully applied to the determination of Cd2+, Co2+, Ni2+, Pb2+, Zn2+, and Cu2+ ion in water samples. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. Experiences with an adaptive design for a dose-finding study in patients with osteoarthritis.

    PubMed

    Miller, Frank; Björnsson, Marcus; Svensson, Ola; Karlsten, Rolf

    2014-03-01

    Dose-finding studies in non-oncology areas are usually conducted in Phase II of the development process of a new potential medicine and it is key to choose a good design for such a study, as the results will decide if and how to proceed to Phase III. The present article has focus on the design of a dose-finding study for pain in osteoarthritis patients treated with the TRPV1 antagonist AZD1386. We describe different design alternatives in the planning of this study, the reasoning for choosing the adaptive design and experiences with conduct and interim analysis. Three alternatives were proposed: one single dose-finding study with parallel design, a programme with a smaller Phase IIa study followed by a Phase IIb dose-finding study, and an adaptive dose-finding study. We describe these alternatives in detail and explain why the adaptive design was chosen for the study. We give insights in design aspects of the adaptive study, which need to be pre-planned, like interim decision criteria, statistical analysis method and setup of a Data Monitoring Committee. Based on the interim analysis it was recommended to stop the study for futility since AZD1386 showed no significant pain decrease based on the primary variable. We discuss results and experiences from the conduct of the study with the novel design approach. Huge cost savings have been done compared to if the option with one dose-finding design for Phase II had been chosen. However, we point out several challenges with this approach. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  17. Mechanisms of blood pressure alterations in response to the Valsalva maneuver in postural tachycardia syndrome

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Sandroni, P.; Novak, V.; Opfer-Gehrking, T. L.; Huck, C. A.; Low, P. A.

    2000-01-01

    The postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is characterized clinically by orthostatic lightheadedness and tachycardia. When these patients perform a Valsalva maneuver, there is an excessive blood pressure increment after cessation of the maneuver (phase IV) that is sometimes associated with headaches. It is not known whether excessive phase IV is due to excessive peripheral vascular tone (an alpha-adrenergic mechanism) or is a manifestation of increased beta-adrenergic tone (hyperadrenergic state). The authors undertook a pharmacologic study evaluating the effect of intravenous phentolamine (alpha-adrenergic antagonist) and propranolol (beta-adrenergic antagonist) on the different phases of the Valsalva maneuver in a group of patients with POTS and age-matched normal control subjects. Patients with POTS had mean phases, when compared with controls, that were characterized by more negative II_E (p = 0.07), smaller II_L (p = 0.04), and significantly larger phase IV (p = 0.001). The effect of phentolamine was qualitatively and quantitatively different in POTS when compared with controls. Ten mg phentolamine in controls resulted in a significant accentuation of phase II_E (p = 0.001), attenuation of phase II_L (p = 0.002), and increase of phase IV (57.6 vs 30.7 mm Hg; p = 0.025). These changes resembled those of patients with POTS at baseline. In patients with POTS, the phase II abnormalities, already present, were further accentuated (p <0.001), and phase IV became smaller (50.6 vs 73.8 mm Hg; p = 0.09). Propranolol had no significant effect on phases II_E and II_L, but significantly reduced phase IV in both controls (p <0.05) and in patients with POTS (p <0.001) and improved the headache symptoms, when present, during and after phase IV. The authors conclude that phase IV is mainly under beta-adrenergic regulation and that the exaggerated phase IV in POTS is a result of a hyperadrenergic state.

  18. TNX GeoSiphon Cell (TGSC-1) Phase II Single Cell Deployment/Demonstration Final Report

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Phifer, M.A.

    1999-04-15

    This Phase II final report documents the Phase II testing conducted from June 18, 1998 through November 13, 1998, and it focuses on the application of the siphon technology as a sub-component of the overall GeoSiphon Cell technology. [Q-TPL-T-00004

  19. 40 CFR 72.44 - Phase II repowering extensions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... (CONTINUED) PERMITS REGULATION Acid Rain Compliance Plan and Compliance Options § 72.44 Phase II repowering... the requirements of paragraph (a)(1)(i) of this section may include in the unit's Phase II Acid Rain... authority shall issue the Acid Rain portion of the operating permit including: (A) The approved repowering...

  20. 40 CFR 72.44 - Phase II repowering extensions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... (CONTINUED) PERMITS REGULATION Acid Rain Compliance Plan and Compliance Options § 72.44 Phase II repowering... the requirements of paragraph (a)(1)(i) of this section may include in the unit's Phase II Acid Rain... authority shall issue the Acid Rain portion of the operating permit including: (A) The approved repowering...

  1. 40 CFR 72.44 - Phase II repowering extensions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... (CONTINUED) PERMITS REGULATION Acid Rain Compliance Plan and Compliance Options § 72.44 Phase II repowering... the requirements of paragraph (a)(1)(i) of this section may include in the unit's Phase II Acid Rain... authority shall issue the Acid Rain portion of the operating permit including: (A) The approved repowering...

  2. 40 CFR 72.44 - Phase II repowering extensions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... (CONTINUED) PERMITS REGULATION Acid Rain Compliance Plan and Compliance Options § 72.44 Phase II repowering... the requirements of paragraph (a)(1)(i) of this section may include in the unit's Phase II Acid Rain... authority shall issue the Acid Rain portion of the operating permit including: (A) The approved repowering...

  3. 40 CFR 72.44 - Phase II repowering extensions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... (CONTINUED) PERMITS REGULATION Acid Rain Compliance Plan and Compliance Options § 72.44 Phase II repowering... the requirements of paragraph (a)(1)(i) of this section may include in the unit's Phase II Acid Rain... authority shall issue the Acid Rain portion of the operating permit including: (A) The approved repowering...

  4. Predictors of long-term weight loss in adults with modest initial weight loss, by sex and race.

    PubMed

    Svetkey, Laura P; Ard, Jamy D; Stevens, Victor J; Loria, Catherine M; Young, Deb Y; Hollis, Jack F; Appel, Lawrence J; Brantley, Phillip J; Kennedy, Betty M; Kumanyika, Shiriki K; Batch, Bryan C; Corsino, Leonor; Lien, Lillian F; Vollmer, William M

    2012-09-01

    Effective weight management interventions could reduce race-sex disparities in cardiovascular disease (CVD), yet little is known about factors associated with successful weight loss maintenance in race-sex subgroups. In the Weight Loss Maintenance trial (WLM), overweight/obese (BMI 25-45 kg/m(2)) adults who lost ≥4 kg in a 6-month behavioral weight loss intervention (phase I) were randomized into one of three 30-month maintenance interventions (phase II). To investigate predictors in subgroups, randomized groups were combined for this analysis. Of 1,685 phase I participants, 1,032 (61%) entered phase II, including 12% black men (BM), 26% black women (BW), 25% white men (WM), and 37% white women (WW). Weight change over the 36-month study ranged from -2.3% (95% confidence interval = -3.1 to -1.5%) in BW to -4.5% (95% confidence interval = -5.7 to -4.0%) in WM, the result of differential weight loss during phase I. Within race, men lost significantly more weight than women, but within sex group, weight loss did not differ significantly between races. Although participants regained weight during phase II, regain did not differ by race-sex group, and mean weight at the end of the study was significantly lower than phase I entry weight for each subgroup. In regression models, phase I weight loss predicted overall 36-month weight loss in all race-sex groups. Healthy dietary pattern at entry, improvement in dietary pattern, or both were predictive in three of four race-sex groups. Few other variables other than initial weight loss and dietary pattern were predictive. Future research should identify additional modifiable influences on long-term maintenance after a modest weight loss.

  5. Effect of educational and policy interventions on institutional utilization of wet nebulization respiratory drugs and portable inhalers.

    PubMed

    Lowe, Donna O; Lummis, Heather; Zhang, Ying; Sketris, Ingrid S

    2008-01-01

    Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease treatment guidelines support the preferential use of portable inhalers (PIs) over wet nebulization (WN) respiratory therapy. Hospital- and community-based educational initiatives and a community-based provincial drug program policy change were previously implemented to promote the conversion of WN therapy to PI and spacer device use in Nova Scotia. To examine the effect of these interventions on salbutamol, ipratropium bromide, and spacer device (Aerochamber) use at the Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre (QEII HSC). We conducted a time-series analysis of drug utilization data from August 1998 to July 2005. We used two intervention phases compared to the pre-intervention phase to determine whether the educational and policy interventions were associated with significant changes in monthly drug and spacer device utilization rates at the QEII HSC (1000-bed teaching hospital; Halifax, Nova Scotia). Salbutamol and ipratropium bromide PI use significantly increased in both intervention phases, compared to the pre-intervention phase. Mean (SD) defined daily doses/100 bed-days for salbutamol PI increased from 30.4 (0.4) in the pre-intervention phase to 34.6 (0.9) and 37.0 (0.4) in intervention phases I and II respectively (p<0.001 for both), and ipratropium bromide PI increased from 27.3 (3.5) to 32.8 (2.5) in intervention phase I (p=0.004) and 35.6 (3.5) in intervention phase II (p<0.001). However, a significant corresponding decrease was observed with salbutamol WN only. Mean (SD) Aerochamber units/100 bed-days significantly increased. Educational and policy interventions had limited effects on converting WN to PI use at the QEII HSC.

  6. Study of Alternate Space Shuttle Concepts. Volume 2, Part 2: Concept Analysis and Definition

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1971-01-01

    This is the final report of a Phase A Study of Alternate Space Shuttle Concepts by the Lockheed Missiles & Space Company (LMSC) for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration George C. Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). The eleven-month study, which began on 30 June 1970, is to examine the stage-and-one-half and other Space Shuttle configurations and to establish feasibility, performance, cost, and schedules for the selected concepts. This final report consists of four volumes as follows: Volume I - Executive Summary, Volume II - Concept Analysis and Definition, Volume III - Program Planning, and Volume IV - Data Cost Data. This document is Volume II, Concept Analysis and Definition.

  7. Pulsatile luteinizing hormone patterns in the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle, polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD) and non-PCOD secondary amenorrhea.

    PubMed

    Burger, C W; Korsen, T; van Kessel, H; van Dop, P A; Caron, F J; Schoemaker, J

    1985-12-01

    To characterize the oscillations of plasma LH in normally cycling and amenorrheic women, three groups of women were studied: I, normal women during the follicular phase of the cycle (n = 9); II, women with polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD; n = 11); and III, women with non-PCOD secondary amenorrhea (n = 12). Blood samples were obtained at 10-min intervals for 6 h on 2 separate days. A pulse was defined as an increase in LH at least 20% over the preceding lowest value (nadir). Since LHRH release immediately follows the nadir of the LH levels, the nadir interval (NI) was used for analysis. For analysis, the results from 1 day were selected at random from each subject, and from each day, the same number of NIs also were randomly selected. When two NIs from each patient were selected, the median NI was 75 min in group I, 45 min in group II, and 45 min in group III. When three or four NIs were chosen, the median NI was 60 min in group I, 50 min in group II, and 40 min in group III. The differences between the groups were statistically significant. When three NIs were selected, the mean of the corresponding LH amplitudes was 2.8 U/liter in group I, 6.0 U/liter in group II, and 1.5 U/liter in group III. The differences between these groups were statistically significant. Thus, the NI in PCOD patients was shorter than that during the follicular phase of the cycle, but this short NI is not unique for PCOD, since the NI in non-PCOD secondary amenorrhea patients was even smaller. The LH amplitude was higher in PCOD and lower in non-PCOD secondary amenorrhea compared to that during the follicular phase of the cycle. The decrease in NI in PCOD and/or non-PCOD secondary amenorrhea vs. the NI of the follicular phase could be explained by either a higher frequency of LHRH pulses from the hypothalamus or an increased sensitivity of the pituitary leading to a greater response of the pituitary to LHRH pulses.

  8. Efficacy and safety of rifaximin in Japanese patients with hepatic encephalopathy: A phase II/III, multicenter, randomized, evaluator-blinded, active-controlled trial and a phase III, multicenter, open trial.

    PubMed

    Suzuki, Kazuyuki; Endo, Ryujin; Takikawa, Yasuhiro; Moriyasu, Fuminori; Aoyagi, Yutaka; Moriwaki, Hisataka; Terai, Shuji; Sakaida, Isao; Sakai, Yoshiyuki; Nishiguchi, Shuhei; Ishikawa, Toru; Takagi, Hitoshi; Naganuma, Atsushi; Genda, Takuya; Ichida, Takafumi; Takaguchi, Koichi; Miyazawa, Katsuhiko; Okita, Kiwamu

    2018-05-01

    The efficacy and safety of rifaximin in the treatment of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) are widely known, but they have not been confirmed in Japanese patients with HE. Thus, two prospective, randomized studies (a phase II/III study and a phase III study) were carried out. Subjects with grade I or II HE and hyperammonemia were enrolled. The phase II/III study, which was a randomized, evaluator-blinded, active-comparator, parallel-group study, was undertaken at 37 institutions in Japan. Treatment periods were 14 days. Eligible patients were randomized to the rifaximin group (1200 mg/day) or the lactitol group (18-36 g/day). The phase III study was carried out in the same patients previously enrolled in the phase II/III study, and they were all treated with rifaximin (1200 mg/day) for 10 weeks. In the phase II/III study, 172 patients were enrolled. Blood ammonia (B-NH 3 ) concentration was significantly improved in the rifaximin group, but the difference between the two groups was not significant. The portal systemic encephalopathy index (PSE index), including HE grade, was significantly improved in both groups. In the phase III study, 87.3% of enrolled patients completed the treatment. The improved B-NH 3 concentration and PSE index were well maintained from the phase II/III study during the treatment period of the phase III study. Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were seen in 13.4% of patients who received rifaximin, but there were no severe ADRs leading to death. The efficacy of rifaximin is sufficient and treatment is well tolerated in Japanese patients with HE and hyperammonemia. © 2017 The Japan Society of Hepatology.

  9. Methodology of phase II clinical trials in metastatic elderly breast cancer: a literature review.

    PubMed

    Cabarrou, B; Mourey, L; Dalenc, F; Balardy, L; Kanoun, D; Roché, H; Boher, J M; Rougé-Bugat, M E; Filleron, Thomas

    2017-08-01

    As the incidence of invasive breast cancer will increase with age, the number of elderly patients with a diagnosis metastatic breast cancer will also rise. But the use of cytotoxic drugs in elderly metastatic breast cancer patients is not systematic and is dreaded by medical oncologists. The need for prospective oncologic data from this population seems increasingly obvious. The main objective of this review is to investigate design and characteristics of phase II trials that assess activity and feasibility of chemotherapies in elderly advanced/metastatic breast cancer patients. An electronic search in PUBMED allowed us to retrieve articles published in English language on phase II trials in elderly metastatic breast cancer between January 2002 and May 2016. Sixteen publications were finally included in this review. The primary endpoint was a simple, a composite, and a co-primary endpoints in 11, three, and two studies, respectively. Efficacy was the primary objective in 15 studies: simple (n = 10), composite (n = 3), co-primary endpoints (n = 2). Composite or co-primary endpoints combined efficacy and toxicity. Thirteen studies used multistage designs. Only five studies evaluated the feasibility, i.e., to jointly assess efficacy and tolerance to treatment (toxicity, quality of life, etc) as primary endpoint. Development of elderly specific phase III clinical trials might be challenging, it therefore seems essential to conduct phase II clinical trials evaluating jointly efficacy and toxicity in a well-defined geriatric population. Use of multistage designs that take into account heterogeneity would allow to identify a subpopulation at interim analysis and to reduce the number of patients exposed to an inefficient or a toxic treatment regimen. It is crucial to evaluate new therapies (targeted therapies, immunotherapies) using adequate methodologies (Study design, endpoint).

  10. Impact of Truck Loading on Design and Analysis of Asphaltic Pavement Structures : Phase II

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2011-02-01

    In this study, Schaperys nonlinear viscoelastic constitutive model is implemented into the commercial finite element (FE) software ABAQUS via user defined subroutine (user material, or UMAT) to analyze asphalt pavement subjected to heavy truck loa...

  11. Fire Safety of Passenger Trains : Phase II : Application of Fire Hazard Analysis Techniques

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2001-12-01

    On May 12, 1999, the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) issued regulations for passenger rail equipment safety standards that included small-scale fire tests and performance criteria to evaluate the flammability and smoke characteristics of indivi...

  12. Fire safety of passenger trains. Phase II, Application of fire hazard analysis techniques.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2001-12-01

    On May 12, 1999, the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) issued regulations for passenger rail equipment safety standards that included small-scale fire tests and performance criteria to evaluate the flammability and smoke characteristics of indivi...

  13. Transportation informatics : an image analysis system for managing transportation facilities - phase II.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2012-02-01

    One of the most important tasks in maintaining transportation facilities such as highways : and streets is the evaluation of the existing condition. Visual evaluation by human : inspectors is subjective in nature, therefore has issues of consistency ...

  14. Phase II Study Proposal Briefs.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    National Center for the Study of Postsecondary Educational Supports, Honolulu, HI.

    This document collects 23 study proposal briefs presented to the National Center for the Study of Postsecondary Educational Supports. The proposals address the following topics concerned with postsecondary services for students with disabilities: cultural empowerment, longitudinal analysis of postsecondary students' experience, effective models of…

  15. Iron and Arsenic Speciation During As(III) Oxidation by Manganese Oxides in the Presence of Fe(II): Molecular-Level Characterization Using XAFS, Mössbauer, and TEM Analysis

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Wu, Yun; Kukkadapu, Ravi K.; Livi, Kenneth J. T.

    The redox state and speciation of metalloid arsenic (As) determine its toxicity and mobility. Knowledge of biogeochemical processes influencing the As redox state is therefore important to understand and predict its environmental behavior. Many previous studies examined As(III) oxidation by various Mn-oxides, but little is known the environmental influences (e.g. co-existing ions) on such process. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms of As(III) oxidation by a poorly crystalline hexagonal birnessite (δ-MnO2) in the presence of Fe(II) using X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), Mössbauer spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). As K-edge X-ray absorption nearmore » edge spectroscopy (XANES) analysis revealed that, at low Fe(II) concentration (100 μM), As(V) was the predominant As species on the solid phase, while at higher Fe(II) concentration (200-1000 μM), both As(III) and As(V) were sorbed on the solid phase. As K-edge extended X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy (EXAFS) analysis showed an increasing As-Mn/Fe distance over time, indicating As prefers to bind with the newly formed Fe(III)-(hydr)oxides. As adsorbed on Fe(III)-(hydr)oxides as a bidentate binuclear corner-sharing complex. Both Mössbauer and TEM-EDS investigations demonstrated that the oxidized Fe(III) products formed during Fe(II) oxidation by δ-MnO2 were predominantly ferrihydrite, goethite, and ferric arsenate like compounds. However, Fe EXAFS analysis also suggested the formation of a small amount of lepidocrocite. The Mn K-edge XANES data indicated that As(III) and Fe(II) oxidation occurs as a two electron transfer with δ-MnO2 and the observed Mn(III) is due to conproportionation of surface sorbed Mn(II) with Mn(IV) in δ-MnO2 structure. This study reveals that the mechanisms of As(III) oxidation by δ-MnO2 in the presence of Fe(II) are very complex, involving many simultaneous reactions, and the formation of Fe(III)-(hydr)oxides plays a very important role in reducing As mobility.« less

  16. Computational Gene Expression Modeling Identifies Salivary Biomarker Analysis that Predict Oral Feeding Readiness in the Newborn

    PubMed Central

    Maron, Jill L.; Hwang, Jooyeon S.; Pathak, Subash; Ruthazer, Robin; Russell, Ruby L.; Alterovitz, Gil

    2014-01-01

    Objective To combine mathematical modeling of salivary gene expression microarray data and systems biology annotation with RT-qPCR amplification to identify (phase I) and validate (phase II) salivary biomarker analysis for the prediction of oral feeding readiness in preterm infants. Study design Comparative whole transcriptome microarray analysis from 12 preterm newborns pre- and post-oral feeding success was used for computational modeling and systems biology analysis to identify potential salivary transcripts associated with oral feeding success (phase I). Selected gene expression biomarkers (15 from computational modeling; 6 evidence-based; and 3 reference) were evaluated by RT-qPCR amplification on 400 salivary samples from successful (n=200) and unsuccessful (n=200) oral feeders (phase II). Genes, alone and in combination, were evaluated by a multivariate analysis controlling for sex and post-conceptional age (PCA) to determine the probability that newborns achieved successful oral feeding. Results Advancing post-conceptional age (p < 0.001) and female sex (p = 0.05) positively predicted an infant’s ability to feed orally. A combination of five genes, NPY2R (hunger signaling), AMPK (energy homeostasis), PLXNA1 (olfactory neurogenesis), NPHP4 (visual behavior) and WNT3 (facial development), in addition to PCA and sex, demonstrated good accuracy for determining feeding success (AUROC = 0.78). Conclusions We have identified objective and biologically relevant salivary biomarkers that noninvasively assess a newborn’s developing brain, sensory and facial development as they relate to oral feeding success. Understanding the mechanisms that underlie the development of oral feeding readiness through translational and computational methods may improve clinical decision making while decreasing morbidities and health care costs. PMID:25620512

  17. Phenomenology of Polymorphism, III: p, TDiagram and Stability of Piracetam Polymorphs

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Céolin, R.; Agafonov, V.; Louër, D.; Dzyabchenko, V. A.; Toscani, S.; Cense, J. M.

    1996-02-01

    The nootropic drug Piracetam is known to crystallize in three phases. In order to obtain their stability hierarchy from sublimation pressure inequalities, the drawing of a topologicalp,Tdiagram was attempted. For such a purpose and also for quality control, crystallographic and thermodynamic data were required. Powder X-ray diffractometry (XRD) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) were used. Molecular energy calculations were performed. Phase I melts at 426 K (ΔfusH(I) = +180 J·g-1). Phase II transforms into Phase I at 399 K (Δ(II→I)H= +24 J·g-1). Phase III transforms into phase I at 392 K (Δ(III→I)H= +28 J·g-1) or melts at 412 K (ΔfusH(III) = +210 J·g-1). Thep,Tdiagram shows that phase I is stable at higher temperature and phase II at lower temperature, like phase III, which is stable under high pressure. At room temperature, phase II is the more stable form, and phase I the less stable one. This agrees with the spontaneous I → II transformation observed at 298 K within a few hours, and with lattice energies, calculated previously. Molecular energy calculations and crystal structure comparison show how intermolecular hydrogen bonds and H-bonded dimers, in phases II and III, may stabilize conformations higher in energy than those of the isolated molecule and of phase I.

  18. Advanced Avionics Verification and Validation Phase II (AAV&V-II)

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1999-01-01

    Algorithm 2-8 2.7 The Weak Control Dependence Algorithm 2-8 2.8 The Indirect Dependence Algorithms 2-9 2.9 Improvements to the Pleiades Object...describes some modifications made to the Pleiades object management system to increase the speed of the analysis. 2.1 THE INTERPROCEDURAL CONTROL FLOW...slow as the edges in the graph increased. The time to insert edges was addressed by enhancements to the Pleiades object management system, which are

  19. MECHANISM AND KINETICS OF THE FORMATION OF NOX AND OTHER COMBUSTION POLLUTANTS. PHASE II. MODIFIED COMBUSTION

    EPA Science Inventory

    The report gives Phase II results of a combined experimental/theoretical study to define the mechanisms and kinetics of the formation of NOx and other combustion pollutants. Two experimental devices were used in Phase II. A special flat-flame burner with a controlled-temperature ...

  20. 76 FR 3624 - Milford Wind Corridor Phase II, LLC; Supplemental Notice That Initial Market-Based Rate Filing...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-01-20

    ... DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [Docket No. ER11-2657-000] Milford Wind Corridor Phase II, LLC; Supplemental Notice That Initial Market-Based Rate Filing Includes Request for... proceeding Milford Wind Corridor Phase II, LLC's application for market-based rate authority, with an...

  1. 40 CFR 72.73 - State issuance of Phase II permits.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... (CONTINUED) PERMITS REGULATION Acid Rain Phase II Implementation § 72.73 State issuance of Phase II permits... permit program under part 70 of this chapter and that has a State Acid Rain program accepted by the Administrator under § 72.71 shall be responsible for administering and enforcing Acid Rain permits effective in...

  2. 40 CFR 72.73 - State issuance of Phase II permits.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... (CONTINUED) PERMITS REGULATION Acid Rain Phase II Implementation § 72.73 State issuance of Phase II permits... permit program under part 70 of this chapter and that has a State Acid Rain program accepted by the Administrator under § 72.71 shall be responsible for administering and enforcing Acid Rain permits effective in...

  3. 40 CFR 72.73 - State issuance of Phase II permits.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... (CONTINUED) PERMITS REGULATION Acid Rain Phase II Implementation § 72.73 State issuance of Phase II permits... permit program under part 70 of this chapter and that has a State Acid Rain program accepted by the Administrator under § 72.71 shall be responsible for administering and enforcing Acid Rain permits effective in...

  4. 40 CFR 72.73 - State issuance of Phase II permits.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... (CONTINUED) PERMITS REGULATION Acid Rain Phase II Implementation § 72.73 State issuance of Phase II permits... permit program under part 70 of this chapter and that has a State Acid Rain program accepted by the Administrator under § 72.71 shall be responsible for administering and enforcing Acid Rain permits effective in...

  5. 40 CFR 72.74 - Federal issuance of Phase II permits.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) PERMITS REGULATION Acid Rain Phase II Implementation § 72.74 Federal issuance of Phase II permits. (a)(1) The Administrator will be responsible for administering and enforcing Acid Rain... and enforcing Acid Rain permits for such sources under § 72.73(a). (2) After and to the extent the...

  6. 40 CFR 72.74 - Federal issuance of Phase II permits.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) PERMITS REGULATION Acid Rain Phase II Implementation § 72.74 Federal issuance of Phase II permits. (a)(1) The Administrator will be responsible for administering and enforcing Acid Rain... and enforcing Acid Rain permits for such sources under § 72.73(a). (2) After and to the extent the...

  7. 40 CFR 72.74 - Federal issuance of Phase II permits.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) PERMITS REGULATION Acid Rain Phase II Implementation § 72.74 Federal issuance of Phase II permits. (a)(1) The Administrator will be responsible for administering and enforcing Acid Rain... and enforcing Acid Rain permits for such sources under § 72.73(a). (2) After and to the extent the...

  8. 40 CFR 72.74 - Federal issuance of Phase II permits.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) PERMITS REGULATION Acid Rain Phase II Implementation § 72.74 Federal issuance of Phase II permits. (a)(1) The Administrator will be responsible for administering and enforcing Acid Rain... and enforcing Acid Rain permits for such sources under § 72.73(a). (2) After and to the extent the...

  9. 40 CFR 72.73 - State issuance of Phase II permits.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... (CONTINUED) PERMITS REGULATION Acid Rain Phase II Implementation § 72.73 State issuance of Phase II permits... permit program under part 70 of this chapter and that has a State Acid Rain program accepted by the Administrator under § 72.71 shall be responsible for administering and enforcing Acid Rain permits effective in...

  10. 40 CFR 72.74 - Federal issuance of Phase II permits.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) PERMITS REGULATION Acid Rain Phase II Implementation § 72.74 Federal issuance of Phase II permits. (a)(1) The Administrator will be responsible for administering and enforcing Acid Rain... and enforcing Acid Rain permits for such sources under § 72.73(a). (2) After and to the extent the...

  11. Doping-induced disappearance of ice II from water's phase diagram

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shephard, Jacob J.; Slater, Ben; Harvey, Peter; Hart, Martin; Bull, Craig L.; Bramwell, Steven T.; Salzmann, Christoph G.

    2018-06-01

    Water and the many phases of ice display a plethora of complex physical properties and phase relationships1-4 that are of paramount importance in a range of settings including processes in Earth's hydrosphere, the geology of icy moons, industry and even the evolution of life. Well-known examples include the unusual behaviour of supercooled water2, the emergent ferroelectric ordering in ice films4 and the fact that the `ordinary' ice Ih floats on water. We report the intriguing observation that ice II, one of the high-pressure phases of ice, disappears in a selective fashion from water's phase diagram following the addition of small amounts of ammonium fluoride. This finding exposes the strict topologically constrained nature of the ice II hydrogen-bond network, which is not found for the competing phases. In analogy to the behaviour of frustrated magnets5, the presence of the exceptional ice II is argued to have a wider impact on water's phase diagram, potentially explaining its general tendency to display anomalous behaviour. Furthermore, the impurity-induced disappearance of ice II raises the prospect that specific dopants may not only be able to suppress certain phases but also induce the formation of new phases of ice in future studies.

  12. Integrated optics implementation of a fiber optic rotation sensor - Analysis and development. [for Mariner Mark II planetary explorer

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bartman, R. K.; Youmans, B. R.; Nerheim, N. M.

    1987-01-01

    The Jet Propulsion Laboratory is developing a fiber optic rotation sensor (FORS) for use on the Mariner Mark II series of planetary explorer craft and in other space applications. FORS is a closed-loop phase-nulling device and embodies a number of interesting innovations. Chief among these are the incorporation of the device's couplers, phase modulators, and polarizer on a single lithium niobate (LinbO3) integrate optics chip and a novel means of reading out angular position and rotation rate based on optical beat detection. Various aspects of the FORS design and operation are described and discussed. Particular attention is paid to analyzing errors attributable to polarizer imperfection and the so-called residual Michelson effect.

  13. Assessment of Operational Automated Guideway Systems - Airtrans (Phase II)

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1980-01-01

    This study, Phase II, completes the assessment of AIRTRANS, the automated guideway system located at the Dallas-Fort Worth Airport. The Phase I assessment report: "Assessment of Operational Automated Guideway Systems--AIRTRANS (Phase I)" (PB-261 339)...

  14. A randomized adaptive phase II/III study of buparlisib, a pan-class I PI3K inhibitor, combined with paclitaxel for the treatment of HER2- advanced breast cancer (BELLE-4).

    PubMed

    Martín, M; Chan, A; Dirix, L; O'Shaughnessy, J; Hegg, R; Manikhas, A; Shtivelband, M; Krivorotko, P; Batista López, N; Campone, M; Ruiz Borrego, M; Khan, Q J; Beck, J T; Ramos Vázquez, M; Urban, P; Goteti, S; Di Tomaso, E; Massacesi, C; Delaloge, S

    2017-02-01

    Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway activation in preclinical models of breast cancer is associated with tumor growth and resistance to anticancer therapies, including paclitaxel. Effects of the pan-Class I PI3K inhibitor buparlisib (BKM120) appear synergistic with paclitaxel in preclinical and clinical models. BELLE-4 was a 1:1 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, adaptive phase II/III study investigating the combination of buparlisib or placebo with paclitaxel in women with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer with no prior chemotherapy for advanced disease. Patients were stratified by PI3K pathway activation and hormone receptor status. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS) in the full and PI3K pathway-activated populations. An adaptive interim analysis was planned following the phase II part of the study, after ≥125 PFS events had occurred in the full population, to decide whether the study would enter phase III (in the full or PI3K pathway-activated population) or be stopped for futility. As of August 2014, 416 patients were randomized to receive buparlisib (207) or placebo (209) with paclitaxel. At adaptive interim analysis, there was no improvement in PFS with buparlisib versus placebo in the full (median PFS 8.0 versus 9.2 months, hazard ratio [HR] 1.18), or PI3K pathway-activated population (median PFS 9.1 versus 9.2 months, HR 1.17). The study met protocol-specified criteria for futility in both populations, and phase III was not initiated. Median duration of study treatment exposure was 3.5 months in the buparlisib arm versus 4.6 months in the placebo arm. The most frequent adverse events with buparlisib plus paclitaxel (≥40% of patients) were diarrhea, alopecia, rash, nausea, and hyperglycemia. Addition of buparlisib to paclitaxel did not improve PFS in the full or PI3K pathway-activated study population. Consequently, the trial was stopped for futility at the end of phase II. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society for Medical Oncology. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  15. Directed reflectivity, long life AMTEC condenser (DRC). Final report of Phase II SBIR program[Alkali Metal ThermoElectric Converter

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Hunt, Thomas K.

    The Alkali Metal Thermal to Electric Converter (AMTEC) is a static energy conversion device that operates at high thermal to electric conversion efficiencies that are essentially independent of size, have reached 19% and are expected to reach 25% to 30% in 1997. AMTEC systems have been chosen by NASA and DOE for spacecraft applications and have considerable promise for a wide variety of terrestrial applications. Reduction of parasitic heat losses in AMTEC systems related to radiative heat transfer from the hot side to the condenser can make a substantial contribution to system efficiency. Through design, analysis and the fabrication andmore » testing of cells and systems, the proposed program to develop a Directed Reflectivity Condenser (DRC) has investigated the feasibility of an improved AMTEC condenser component. Phase 1 work showed the potential for adding from 4% to 7% to overall system efficiency for identical operating conditions using the concept. A detailed thermal analysis of several DRC capped cell designs was carried out and some of the conditions under which a DRC, used as the condenser at an end cap of a cylindrical converter, can reduce thermal radiation related losses were determined. A model experimental converter was built and tested to compare DRC and planar condenser surfaces. The results of both analysis and experiment indicate that for moderate aspect ratios of a cylindrical, end condensed converter, the DRC can reduce overall thermal losses by up to 4%. The initial effort in Phase 2 extended the analysis to a novel 150 watt radial AMTEC cell design. This analysis indicated that for the effective aspect ratio of this new converter design, the system performance at the 100+ watt level was not significantly improved by use of a DRC type condenser surface. Further analyses however showed that for cylindrical, end-condensed converters, optimized for use with internal radiation shields, the use of DRC surfaces on the side walls of the converter could be more effective than on the condenser end surface itself. The experimental work in Phase 2 was intended to incorporate a DRC into this cell design and use its measured performance to refine the state-of-the-art AMTEC analytical models. Because the analysis had indicated that the new radial converter design, which may be useful for systems at the {approx} 100 watt level was not much assisted by the DRC properties, this program was redirected toward the simpler cylindrical converter design with the corner cube surfaces on the side walls. The Phase II program was proposed and planned with a funding level substantially below the maximum potentially available for Phase II programs at that time. At the time, there were two other funded government sponsored programs at AMPS for which positive results of the analyses described in this report were expected to lead to incorporation of the DRC concept into converters scheduled to be built for these programs. The programs of interest were the Air Force program titled ''Radiation Tolerant, Eclipse Compatible, Solar AMTEC System'' (F29601-99-C-0132) and the DOE/NASA Advanced Radioisotope Power System (ARPS) program. Shortly after its start, the Air Force program was canceled due to elimination of AF SBIR funds at AFRL and the ARPS program was reduced to a level that could not support introduction of novel concept testing. As a result of these two circumstances, the direct testing of the DRC concept in a full up converter was not completed in the Phase II period.« less

  16. Attendance at specialist hepatitis clinics and initiation of antiviral treatment among persons chronically infected with hepatitis C: examining the early impact of Scotland's Hepatitis C Action Plan.

    PubMed

    McDonald, S A; Hutchinson, S J; Innes, H A; Allen, S; Bramley, P; Bhattacharyya, D; Carman, W; Dillon, J F; Fox, R; Fraser, A; Goldberg, D J; Kennedy, N; Mills, P R; Morris, J; Stanley, A J; Wilks, D; Hayes, P C

    2014-05-01

    Primary goals of the Hepatitis C Action Plan for Scotland Phase II (May 2008-March 2011) were to increase, among persons chronically infected with the hepatitis C (HCV) virus, attendance at specialist outpatient clinics and initiation on antiviral therapy. We evaluated progress towards these goals by comparing the odds, across time, of (a) first clinic attendance within 12 months of HCV diagnosis (n = 9747) and (b) initiation on antiviral treatment within 12 months of first attendance (n = 5736). Record linkage between the national HCV diagnosis (1996-2009) and HCV clinical (1996-2010) databases and logistic regression analyses were conducted for both outcomes. For outcome (a), 32% and 45% in the respective pre-Phase II (before 1 May 2008) and Phase II periods attended a specialist clinic within 12 months of diagnosis; the odds of attendance within 12 months increased over time (OR = 1.05 per year, 95% CI: 1.04-1.07), but was not significantly greater for persons diagnosed with HCV in the Phase II era, compared with the pre-Phase II era (OR = 1.1, 95% CI: 0.9-1.3), after adjustment for temporal trend. For outcome (b), 13% and 28% were initiated on treatment within 12 months of their first clinic attendance in the pre-Phase II and Phase II periods, respectively. Higher odds of treatment initiation were associated with first clinic attendance in the Phase II (OR = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.5-2.4), compared with the pre-Phase II era. Results were consistent with a positive impact of the Hepatitis C Action Plan on the treatment of chronically infected individuals, but further monitoring is required to confirm a sustained effect. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  17. Maximizing return on socioeconomic investment in phase II proof-of-concept trials.

    PubMed

    Chen, Cong; Beckman, Robert A

    2014-04-01

    Phase II proof-of-concept (POC) trials play a key role in oncology drug development, determining which therapeutic hypotheses will undergo definitive phase III testing according to predefined Go-No Go (GNG) criteria. The number of possible POC hypotheses likely far exceeds available public or private resources. We propose a design strategy for maximizing return on socioeconomic investment in phase II trials that obtains the greatest knowledge with the minimum patient exposure. We compare efficiency using the benefit-cost ratio, defined to be the risk-adjusted number of truly active drugs correctly identified for phase III development divided by the risk-adjusted total sample size in phase II and III development, for different POC trial sizes, powering schemes, and associated GNG criteria. It is most cost-effective to conduct small POC trials and set the corresponding GNG bars high, so that more POC trials can be conducted under socioeconomic constraints. If δ is the minimum treatment effect size of clinical interest in phase II, the study design with the highest benefit-cost ratio has approximately 5% type I error rate and approximately 20% type II error rate (80% power) for detecting an effect size of approximately 1.5δ. A Go decision to phase III is made when the observed effect size is close to δ. With the phenomenal expansion of our knowledge in molecular biology leading to an unprecedented number of new oncology drug targets, conducting more small POC trials and setting high GNG bars maximize the return on socioeconomic investment in phase II POC trials. ©2014 AACR.

  18. Development of advanced blanket performance under irradiation and system integration through JUPITER-II project

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Abe, Katsunori; Kohyama, Akira; Tanaka, Satoru

    This report describes an outline of the activities of the JUPITER-II collaboration (japan-USA program of Irradiation/Integration test for Fusion Research-II), Which has bee carried out through six years (2001-2006) under Phase 4 of the collabroation implemented by Amendment 4 of Annex 1 to the DOE (United States Department of Energy)-MEXT (Ministry of Education ,Culture,Sports,Science and Technology) Cooperation. This program followed the RTNS-II Program (Phase1:1982-4986), the FFTF/MOTA Program (Phase2:1987-1994) and the JUPITER Program (Phase 3: 1995-2000) [1].

  19. Upgrade for Phase II of the Gerda experiment

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Agostini, M.; Bakalyarov, A. M.; Balata, M.; Barabanov, I.; Baudis, L.; Bauer, C.; Bellotti, E.; Belogurov, S.; Belyaev, S. T.; Benato, G.; Bettini, A.; Bezrukov, L.; Bode, T.; Borowicz, D.; Brudanin, V.; Brugnera, R.; Caldwell, A.; Cattadori, C.; Chernogorov, A.; D'Andrea, V.; Demidova, E. V.; Di Marco, N.; Domula, A.; Doroshkevich, E.; Egorov, V.; Falkenstein, R.; Frodyma, N.; Gangapshev, A.; Garfagnini, A.; Grabmayr, P.; Gurentsov, V.; Gusev, K.; Hakenmüller, J.; Hegai, A.; Heisel, M.; Hemmer, S.; Hiller, R.; Hofmann, W.; Hult, M.; Inzhechik, L. V.; Ioannucci, L.; Janicskó Csáthy, J.; Jochum, J.; Junker, M.; Kazalov, V.; Kermaïdic, Y.; Kihm, T.; Kirpichnikov, I. V.; Kirsch, A.; Kish, A.; Klimenko, A.; Kneißl, R.; Knöpfle, K. T.; Kochetov, O.; Kornoukhov, V. N.; Kuzminov, V. V.; Laubenstein, M.; Lazzaro, A.; Lebedev, V. I.; Lehnert, B.; Lindner, M.; Lippi, I.; Lubashevskiy, A.; Lubsandorzhiev, B.; Lutter, G.; Macolino, C.; Majorovits, B.; Maneschg, W.; Medinaceli, E.; Miloradovic, M.; Mingazheva, R.; Misiaszek, M.; Moseev, P.; Nemchenok, I.; Nisi, S.; Panas, K.; Pandola, L.; Pelczar, K.; Pullia, A.; Ransom, C.; Riboldi, S.; Rumyantseva, N.; Sada, C.; Salamida, F.; Salathe, M.; Schmitt, C.; Schneider, B.; Schönert, S.; Schreiner, J.; Schütz, A.-K.; Schulz, O.; Schwingenheuer, B.; Selivanenko, O.; Shevchik, E.; Shirchenko, M.; Simgen, H.; Smolnikov, A.; Stanco, L.; Vanhoefer, L.; Vasenko, A. A.; Veresnikova, A.; von Sturm, K.; Wagner, V.; Wegmann, A.; Wester, T.; Wiesinger, C.; Wojcik, M.; Yanovich, E.; Zhitnikov, I.; Zhukov, S. V.; Zinatulina, D.; Zsigmond, A. J.; Zuber, K.; Zuzel, G.

    2018-05-01

    The Gerda collaboration is performing a sensitive search for neutrinoless double beta decay of ^{76}Ge at the INFN Laboratori Nazionali del Gran Sasso, Italy. The upgrade of the Gerda experiment from Phase I to Phase II has been concluded in December 2015. The first Phase II data release shows that the goal to suppress the background by one order of magnitude compared to Phase I has been achieved. Gerda is thus the first experiment that will remain "background-free" up to its design exposure (100 kg year). It will reach thereby a half-life sensitivity of more than 10^{26} year within 3 years of data collection. This paper describes in detail the modifications and improvements of the experimental setup for Phase II and discusses the performance of individual detector components.

  20. 40 CFR 80.45 - Complex emissions model.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ...) VOCW% = Percentage change in winter VOC emissions from baseline levels (8) Phase II total VOC emissions... its domain Phase I = The years 1995-1999 Phase II = Year 2000 and beyond (b) Weightings and baselines... appropriate pollutant and Phase: Table 1—Normal and Higher Emitter Weightings for Exhaust Emissions Phase I...

  1. Real time neutron diffraction and NMR of the Empress II glass-ceramic system.

    PubMed

    O'Donnell, M D; Hill, R G; Karpukhina, N; Law, R V

    2011-10-01

    This study reports real time neutron diffraction on the Empress II glass-ceramic system. The commercial glass-ceramics was characterized by real time neutron diffraction, ³¹P and ²⁹Si solid-state MAS-NMR, DSC and XRD. On heating, the as-received glass ceramic contained lithium disilicate (Li₂Si₂O₅), which melted with increasing temperature. This was revealed by neutron diffraction which showed the Bragg peaks for this phase had disappeared by 958°C in agreement with thermal analysis. On cooling lithium metasilicate (Li₂SiO₃) started to form at around 916°C and a minor phase of cristobalite at around 852°C. The unit cell volume of both Li-silicate phases increased linearly with temperature at a rate of +17×10⁻³ ų.°C⁻¹. Room temperature powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) of the material after cooling confirms presence of the lithium metasilicate and cristobalite as the main phases and shows, in addition, small amount of lithium disilicate and orthophosphate. ³¹P MAS-NMR reveals presence of the lithiorthophosphate (Li₃PO₄) before and after heat treatment. The melting of lithium disilicate on heating and crystallisation of lithium metasilicate on cooling agree with endothermic and exotermic features respectively observed by DSC. ²⁹Si MAS-NMR shows presence of lithium disilicate phase in the as-received glass-ceramic, though not in the major proportion, and lithium metasilicate in the material after heat treatment. Both phases have significantly long T₁ relaxation time, especially the lithium metasilicate, therefore, a quantitative analysis of the ²⁹Si MAS-NMR spectra was not attempted. Significance. The findings of the present work demonstrate importance of the commercially designed processing parameters in order to preserve desired characteristics of the material. Processing the Empress II at a rate slower than recommended 60°C min⁻¹ or long isothermal hold at the maximal processing temperature 920°C can cause crystallization of lithium metasilicate and cristobalite instead of lithium disilicate as major phase. Copyright © 2011 Academy of Dental Materials. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. Regional freight information resources for market opportunities in the Great Lakes maritime transportation system : phase II.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2009-11-01

    The Great Lakes Maritime Information Delivery System (GLMIDS) is designed to facilitate the acquisition, storage, management, analysis and exchange of data between analysts and decision-makers within maritime commerce. (See http://maritime.utoledo.ed...

  3. VII data use analysis and processing (DUAP) : final project report (phase II).

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2010-10-01

    This report covers several key subjects related to the generation of IntelliDriveSM probe vehicle data and use of this data in : application of interest to state departments of transportation and local public transportation agencies. The evaluations ...

  4. Wheel/Rail Force Measurement at the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority - Phase II. Volume I. Analysis Report.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1983-06-01

    In support of the Office of Rail and Construction Technology of the Urban Mass Transportation Administration, the Transportation Systems Center (TSC) is conducting analytical and experimental studies to relate transit truck design characteristics, wh...

  5. GDOT Local Beneficiary Analysis of TIA Project Expenditures, Phase II : Impact Evaluation

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2018-05-01

    In 2012, voters in three regions of GeorgiaCentral Savannah River Area, Heart of Georgia Altamaha, and River Valleyapproved the Transportation Investment Act (TIA) referendum, which added 1% to local sales taxes. Seventy-five percent of the add...

  6. On-Line Retrieval II.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kurtz, Peter; And Others

    This report is concerned with the implementation of two interrelated computer systems: an automatic document analysis and classification package, and an on-line interactive information retrieval system which utilizes the information gathered during the automatic classification phase. Well-known techniques developed by Salton and Dennis have been…

  7. Fourier Analysis and Structure Determination. Part II: Pulse NMR and NMR Imaging.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Chesick, John P.

    1989-01-01

    Uses simple pulse NMR experiments to discuss Fourier transforms. Studies the generation of spin echoes used in the imaging procedure. Shows that pulse NMR experiments give signals that are additions of sinusoids of differing amplitudes, frequencies, and phases. (MVL)

  8. High accuracy-nationwide differential global positioning system test and analysis : phase II report

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2005-07-01

    The High Accuracy-Nationwide Differential Global Positioning System (HA-NDGPS) program focused on the development of compression and broadcast techniques to provide users over a large area wit very accurate radio navigation solutions. The goal was ac...

  9. Improving Rural Emergency Medical Services (EMS) through transportation system enhancements Phase II : project brief.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2015-12-01

    This study used the National EMS Information System (NEMSIS) South Dakota data to develop datadriven performance metrics for EMS. Researchers used the data for three tasks: geospatial analysis of EMS events, optimization of station locations, and ser...

  10. Tofacitinib, an oral Janus kinase inhibitor: analysis of malignancies across the rheumatoid arthritis clinical development programme.

    PubMed

    Curtis, Jeffrey R; Lee, Eun Bong; Kaplan, Irina V; Kwok, Kenneth; Geier, Jamie; Benda, Birgitta; Soma, Koshika; Wang, Lisy; Riese, Richard

    2016-05-01

    Tofacitinib is an oral Janus kinase inhibitor for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). To further assess the potential role of Janus kinase inhibition in the development of malignancies, we performed an integrated analysis of data from the tofacitinib RA clinical development programme. Malignancy data (up to 10 April 2013) were pooled from six phase II, six Phase III and two long-term extension (LTE) studies involving tofacitinib. In the phase II and III studies, patients with moderate-to-severe RA were randomised to various tofacitinib doses as monotherapy or with background non-biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), mainly methotrexate. The LTE studies (tofacitinib 5 or 10 mg twice daily) enrolled patients from qualifying prior phase I, II and III index studies. Of 5671 tofacitinib-treated patients, 107 developed malignancies (excluding non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC)). The most common malignancy was lung cancer (n=24) followed by breast cancer (n=19), lymphoma (n=10) and gastric cancer (n=6). The rate of malignancies by 6-month intervals of tofacitinib exposure indicates rates remained stable over time. Standardised incidence ratios (comparison with Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results) for all malignancies (excluding NMSC) and selected malignancies (lung, breast, lymphoma, NMSC) were within the expected range of patients with moderate-to-severe RA. The overall rates and types of malignancies observed in the tofacitinib clinical programme remained stable over time with increasing tofacitinib exposure. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/

  11. 2D-1D structural phase transformation of Co(II) 3,5-pyridinedicarboxylate frameworks with chromotropism.

    PubMed

    Cheansirisomboon, Achareeya; Pakawatchai, Chaveng; Youngme, Sujittra

    2012-09-21

    Two new metal-organic frameworks [Co(pydc)(H(2)O)(2)](n) (1) and [Co(pydc)(H(2)O)(4)](n)(H(2)O)(n) (2), (pydc = 3,5-pyridinedicarboxylate) have been synthesized by a diffusion method and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The structure of 1 reveals an infinite 2D layer with honeycomb-like cavities in which each pydc ligand bridges three Co(II) ions. The adjacent 2D layers are orderly packed in an ABAB-type array via intermolecular interactions of the combined π-π stacking and hydrogen bonds to form a 3D supramolecular architecture. Interestingly, compound 1 exhibits a water induced crystal-to-amorphous transformation with chromotropism confirmed by spectroscopic techniques, elemental analysis, TGA and XRPD. When this amorphous phase (1A) was exposed to water vapor, it was readily converted into the second crystalline phase 1B with a color change. Moreover, a reversible process between 1A and 1B was performed. In the case of compound 2, pydc acts as didentate bridging ligand connecting two Co(II) ions, leading to a 1D zig-zag chain. Guest water molecules fill the gaps in between chains and form hydrogen bonds with the host chains stabilizing the 3D network of 2. Additionally, compound 2 also exhibits a water induced crystal-to-amorphous transformation with chromotropism and the reversible process was also performed between the dehydrated (2A) and rehydrated (2') forms. Surprisingly, the IR and UV-vis spectra, elemental analysis, TGA curve and XRPD pattern of the rehydrated second phase 1B are found to be identical to that of 2 and 2', these results confirm that 2, 2' and 1B are the same compound.

  12. Motor Training Promotes Both Synaptic and Intrinsic Plasticity of Layer II/III Pyramidal Neurons in the Primary Motor Cortex

    PubMed Central

    Kida, Hiroyuki; Tsuda, Yasumasa; Ito, Nana; Yamamoto, Yui; Owada, Yuji; Kamiya, Yoshinori; Mitsushima, Dai

    2016-01-01

    Motor skill training induces structural plasticity at dendritic spines in the primary motor cortex (M1). To further analyze both synaptic and intrinsic plasticity in the layer II/III area of M1, we subjected rats to a rotor rod test and then prepared acute brain slices. Motor skill consistently improved within 2 days of training. Voltage clamp analysis showed significantly higher α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid/N-methyl-d-aspartate (AMPA/NMDA) ratios and miniature EPSC amplitudes in 1-day trained rats compared with untrained rats, suggesting increased postsynaptic AMPA receptors in the early phase of motor learning. Compared with untrained controls, 2-days trained rats showed significantly higher miniature EPSC amplitude and frequency. Paired-pulse analysis further demonstrated lower rates in 2-days trained rats, suggesting increased presynaptic glutamate release during the late phase of learning. One-day trained rats showed decreased miniature IPSC frequency and increased paired-pulse analysis of evoked IPSC, suggesting a transient decrease in presynaptic γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) release. Moreover, current clamp analysis revealed lower resting membrane potential, higher spike threshold, and deeper afterhyperpolarization in 1-day trained rats—while 2-days trained rats showed higher membrane potential, suggesting dynamic changes in intrinsic properties. Our present results indicate dynamic changes in glutamatergic, GABAergic, and intrinsic plasticity in M1 layer II/III neurons after the motor training. PMID:27193420

  13. Motor Training Promotes Both Synaptic and Intrinsic Plasticity of Layer II/III Pyramidal Neurons in the Primary Motor Cortex.

    PubMed

    Kida, Hiroyuki; Tsuda, Yasumasa; Ito, Nana; Yamamoto, Yui; Owada, Yuji; Kamiya, Yoshinori; Mitsushima, Dai

    2016-08-01

    Motor skill training induces structural plasticity at dendritic spines in the primary motor cortex (M1). To further analyze both synaptic and intrinsic plasticity in the layer II/III area of M1, we subjected rats to a rotor rod test and then prepared acute brain slices. Motor skill consistently improved within 2 days of training. Voltage clamp analysis showed significantly higher α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid/N-methyl-d-aspartate (AMPA/NMDA) ratios and miniature EPSC amplitudes in 1-day trained rats compared with untrained rats, suggesting increased postsynaptic AMPA receptors in the early phase of motor learning. Compared with untrained controls, 2-days trained rats showed significantly higher miniature EPSC amplitude and frequency. Paired-pulse analysis further demonstrated lower rates in 2-days trained rats, suggesting increased presynaptic glutamate release during the late phase of learning. One-day trained rats showed decreased miniature IPSC frequency and increased paired-pulse analysis of evoked IPSC, suggesting a transient decrease in presynaptic γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) release. Moreover, current clamp analysis revealed lower resting membrane potential, higher spike threshold, and deeper afterhyperpolarization in 1-day trained rats-while 2-days trained rats showed higher membrane potential, suggesting dynamic changes in intrinsic properties. Our present results indicate dynamic changes in glutamatergic, GABAergic, and intrinsic plasticity in M1 layer II/III neurons after the motor training. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press.

  14. Chesapeake Bay Low Freshwater Inflow Study. Phase II. MAP FOLIO. Biota Assessment.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1982-05-01

    conditions. These were: 1) Base Average -- average freshwater inflow conditions. by increased water consumption projected for the year 2020. 3) Base Drought...RESOLUTION TEST CHART NATIONAL BUREAU OF STANDARDS. 1963- A TAI m - ii J May 1982 Chesapeake Bay Low Freshwater Inflow Study Phase II Biota Assessment Map...A PERIOD ZOVERED change was found to CIESAPEAKE BAY LOW FRESHWATER INFLOW STUDY FINAL BIOTA ASSESSMENT PHASE II: FINAL REPORT MAP FOLIO s PERFORMING

  15. Effects of Combined Phase III and Phase II Cardiac Exercise Therapy for Middle-aged Male Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Chih-Wei; Wang, Ji-Hung; Hsieh, Jen-Che; Hsieh, Tsung-Cheng; Huang, Chien-Hui

    2013-01-01

    [Purpose] To investigate the effects of cardiac exercise therapy (CET) on exercise capacity and coronary risk factors (CRFs) of patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). [Methods] Patients who participated in an 8-week supervised, hospital-based phase II and 6-month home-based phase III CET with monthly telephone and/or home visits were defined as the exercise group (EG) (n=20), while those who did not receive phase II or phase III CET were defined as the no-exercise group (NEG) (n=10). CRFs were evaluated pre- and post-phase II and eight months after discharge. One and two-way repeated measures ANOVA were used to perform intra- and inter-group comparisons. [Results] Thirty men with AMI aged 49.3 ± 8.3 years were studied. EG increased their exercise capacity (METs) (6.8 ± 1.6 vs.10.0 ± 1.9) after phase II CET and was able to maintain it at 8-month follow-up. Both groups had significantly fewer persons who kept on smoking compared to the first examination. High density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) increased from 38.1 ± 11.0 to 43.7 ± 8.7 mg/dl at follow-up in EG while no significant difference was noted in NEG. [Conclusion] After phase III CET subjects had maintained the therapeutic effects of smoking cessation, and increasing exercise capacity obtained in phase II CET. HDL-C in EG continued to improve during phase III CET. PMID:24396201

  16. 47 CFR 54.310 - Connect America Fund for Price Cap Territories-Phase II

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 3 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Connect America Fund for Price Cap Territories... Connect America Fund for Price Cap Territories—Phase II (a) Geographic areas eligible for support. Connect America Phase II support may be made available for census blocks or other areas identified as eligible by...

  17. Phase I/II adaptive design for drug combination oncology trials

    PubMed Central

    Wages, Nolan A.; Conaway, Mark R.

    2014-01-01

    Existing statistical methodology on dose finding for combination chemotherapies has focused on toxicity considerations alone in finding a maximum tolerated dose combination to recommend for further testing of efficacy in a phase II setting. Recently, there has been increasing interest in integrating phase I and phase II trials in order to facilitate drug development. In this article, we propose a new adaptive phase I/II method for dual-agent combinations that takes into account both toxicity and efficacy after each cohort inclusion. The primary objective, both within and at the conclusion of the trial, becomes finding a single dose combination with an acceptable level of toxicity that maximizes efficacious response. We assume that there exist monotone dose–toxicity and dose–efficacy relationships among doses of one agent when the dose of other agent is fixed. We perform extensive simulation studies that demonstrate the operating characteristics of our proposed approach, and we compare simulated results to existing methodology in phase I/II design for combinations of agents. PMID:24470329

  18. Raman Frequencies Calculated from the Volume Data as a Function of Temperature at High Pressures for the Disordered Phase II of NH4I

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yurtseven, H.; Kavruk, D.

    In this study, we calculate the Raman frequencies as a function of temperature for the fixed pressures of 706, 1080 and 6355 bars using the volume data for phase II of ammonium iodide. The Raman frequencies calculated here are for the translational optic ν5 TOM (125 cm-1) lattice mode that is located at the zone boundary (M point) of the Brillouin zone of phase II for NH4I. For this calculation the volume data obtained at zero pressure, is used through the mode Grüneisen parameter for the disordered phase II (β phase) which has the CsCl structure of NH4I. Our predicted frequencies of the ν5 TOM (125 cm-1) mode can be compared when the Raman data for this lattice mode is available at various temperatures for fixed pressures of 706, 1080 and 6355 bars in the disordered phase II of ammonium iodide.

  19. Improvement in the workflow efficiency of treating non-emergency outpatients by using a WLAN-based real-time location system in a level I trauma center.

    PubMed

    Stübig, Timo; Suero, Eduardo; Zeckey, Christian; Min, William; Janzen, Laura; Citak, Musa; Krettek, Christian; Hüfner, Tobias; Gaulke, Ralph

    2013-01-01

    Patient localization can improve workflow in outpatient settings, which might lead to lower costs. The existing wireless local area network (WLAN) architecture in many hospitals opens up the possibility of adopting real-time patient tracking systems for capturing and processing position data; once captured, these data can be linked with clinical patient data. To analyze the effect of a WLAN-based real-time patient localization system for tracking outpatients in our level I trauma center. Outpatients from April to August 2009 were included in the study, which was performed in two different stages. In phase I, patient tracking was performed with the real-time location system, but acquired data were not displayed to the personnel. In phase II tracking, the acquired data were automatically collected and displayed. Total treatment time was the primary outcome parameter. Statistical analysis was performed using multiple linear regression, with the significance level set at 0.05. Covariates included sex, age, type of encounter, prioritization, treatment team, number of residents, and radiographic imaging. 1045 patients were included in our study (540 in phase I and 505 in phase 2). An overall improvement of efficiency, as determined by a significantly decreased total treatment time (23.7%) from phase I to phase II, was noted. Additionally, significantly lower treatment times were noted for phase II patients even when other factors were considered (increased numbers of residents, the addition of imaging diagnostics, and comparison among various localization zones). WLAN-based real-time patient localization systems can reduce process inefficiencies associated with manual patient identification and tracking.

  20. Development of the pediatric daily ulcerative colitis signs and symptoms scale (DUCS): qualitative research findings.

    PubMed

    Flood, Emuella; Silberg, Debra G; Romero, Beverly; Beusterien, Kathleen; Erder, M Haim; Cuffari, Carmen

    2017-09-25

    The purpose of this study is to develop patient-reported (PRO) and observer-reported (ObsRO) outcome measures of ulcerative colitis (UC) signs/symptoms in children aged 5-17 with mild/moderate UC. The daily ulcerative colitis signs and symptoms scale (DUCS) was developed in two phases. Phase I involved concept elicitation interviews with patients and healthcare providers, review of website posts and item generation. Phase II involved cognitive debriefing and assessment of usability and feasibility of the eDiaries. Participants were recruited from five US clinical sites, a research recruitment agency, and internet advertising. Thematic and content analysis was performed to identify concepts from Phase I. The Phase II cognitive debriefing interviews were analyzed iteratively to identify problems with clarity and relevance of eDiary content. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also reviewed and provided feedback on the eDiaries. Phase I included 32 participants (22 remission; 10 active disease). Phase II included 38 participants (22 remission; 16 active disease). A core set of seven signs and symptoms emerged that were reported by at least 30% of the patients interviewed: abdominal pain, blood in stool, frequent stools, diarrhea, stool urgency, nighttime stools, and tiredness. Participant input influenced changes such as refinement of item wording, revision of graphics, and selection of response scales. Revisions suggested by FDA included simplifying the response scale and adding questions to capture symptoms during sleeping hours. The findings of instrument development suggest that the DUCS PRO and ObsRO eDiaries are content-valid instruments for capturing the daily signs and symptoms of pediatric patients with mild to moderate UC in a clinical trial setting.

  1. Nursing students' perceptions of faculty members' ethical/unethical attitudes.

    PubMed

    Arslan, Sevda; Dinç, Leyla

    2017-11-01

    Through education, individuals acquire knowledge, skill and attitudes that facilitate professional socialization; it involves intellectual, emotional and psychomotor skill development. Teachers are role models for behaviour modification and value development. To examine students' perceptions of faculty members' ethical and unethical attitudes during interactions in undergraduate nursing. This descriptive study consisted of two phases. In Phase I, we developed an instrument, which was administered to nursing students to assess validity and reliability. Exploratory factor analysis yielded 32 items. Cronbach's α was 0.83, and test-retest reliability was good. In Phase II, a 32-item version of the instrument was administered to nursing students from another university. Participants and research context: Participants included 219 nursing students from one university in Phase I and 196 from another university in Phase II. The study was conducted at the universities attended by the participants. Ethical considerations: Ethical approval was granted by the institutions involved, and all participants provided informed consent. In Phase I, the instrument demonstrated good psychometric properties for measuring nursing students' perceptions of faculty members' ethical and unethical behaviours. In Phase II, students considered certain professional and personal qualities, including respecting confidentiality and students' private lives and assuming an impartial stance during interactions in the classroom, examinations, or clinical practice, ethical. They considered using obscene examples or unprofessional speech during teaching, selling textbooks in class, using university facilities for personal interests, engaging in romantic relationships with students, and humiliating students in front of patients or staff in clinical settings unethical. Results of this study suggest that nurse educators should be aware of their critical role in the teaching-learning process, and they must scrutinize their attitudes towards students from an ethical point of view.

  2. Improvement in the workflow efficiency of treating non-emergency outpatients by using a WLAN-based real-time location system in a level I trauma center

    PubMed Central

    Stübig, Timo; Suero, Eduardo; Zeckey, Christian; Min, William; Janzen, Laura; Citak, Musa; Krettek, Christian; Hüfner, Tobias; Gaulke, Ralph

    2013-01-01

    Background Patient localization can improve workflow in outpatient settings, which might lead to lower costs. The existing wireless local area network (WLAN) architecture in many hospitals opens up the possibility of adopting real-time patient tracking systems for capturing and processing position data; once captured, these data can be linked with clinical patient data. Objective To analyze the effect of a WLAN-based real-time patient localization system for tracking outpatients in our level I trauma center. Methods Outpatients from April to August 2009 were included in the study, which was performed in two different stages. In phase I, patient tracking was performed with the real-time location system, but acquired data were not displayed to the personnel. In phase II tracking, the acquired data were automatically collected and displayed. Total treatment time was the primary outcome parameter. Statistical analysis was performed using multiple linear regression, with the significance level set at 0.05. Covariates included sex, age, type of encounter, prioritization, treatment team, number of residents, and radiographic imaging. Results/discussion 1045 patients were included in our study (540 in phase I and 505 in phase 2). An overall improvement of efficiency, as determined by a significantly decreased total treatment time (23.7%) from phase I to phase II, was noted. Additionally, significantly lower treatment times were noted for phase II patients even when other factors were considered (increased numbers of residents, the addition of imaging diagnostics, and comparison among various localization zones). Conclusions WLAN-based real-time patient localization systems can reduce process inefficiencies associated with manual patient identification and tracking. PMID:23676246

  3. Impact of Precision Medicine in Diverse Cancers: A Meta-Analysis of Phase II Clinical Trials

    PubMed Central

    Schwaederle, Maria; Zhao, Melissa; Lee, J. Jack; Eggermont, Alexander M.; Schilsky, Richard L.; Mendelsohn, John; Lazar, Vladimir; Kurzrock, Razelle

    2015-01-01

    Purpose The impact of a personalized cancer treatment strategy (ie, matching patients with drugs based on specific biomarkers) is still a matter of debate. Methods We reviewed phase II single-agent studies (570 studies; 32,149 patients) published between January 1, 2010, and December 31, 2012 (PubMed search). Response rate (RR), progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) were compared for arms that used a personalized strategy versus those that did not. Results Multivariable analysis (both weighted multiple linear regression and random effects meta-regression) demonstrated that the personalized approach, compared with a nonpersonalized approach, consistently and independently correlated with higher median RR (31% v 10.5%, respectively; P < .001) and prolonged median PFS (5.9 v 2.7 months, respectively; P < .001) and OS (13.7 v 8.9 months, respectively; P < .001). Nonpersonalized targeted arms had poorer outcomes compared with either personalized targeted therapy or cytotoxics, with median RR of 4%, 30%, and 11.9%, respectively; median PFS of 2.6, 6.9, and 3.3 months, respectively (all P < .001); and median OS of 8.7, 15.9, and 9.4 months, respectively (all P < .05). Personalized arms using a genomic biomarker had higher median RR and prolonged median PFS and OS (all P ≤ .05) compared with personalized arms using a protein biomarker. A personalized strategy was associated with a lower treatment-related death rate than a nonpersonalized strategy (median, 1.5% v 2.3%, respectively; P < .001). Conclusion Comprehensive analysis of phase II, single-agent arms revealed that, across malignancies, a personalized strategy was an independent predictor of better outcomes and fewer toxic deaths. In addition, nonpersonalized targeted therapies were associated with significantly poorer outcomes than cytotoxic agents, which in turn were worse than personalized targeted therapy. PMID:26304871

  4. Thermodynamic analysis of vapor-phase epitaxy of CdTe using a metallic Cd source

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Iso, Kenji; Murakami, Hisashi; Koukitu, Akinori

    2017-07-01

    Thermodynamic analysis of CdTe growth using cost-effective metallic Cd and dialkyl telluride was performed. The major vapor species at source zone in equilibrium were gaseous Cd for the group-II precursor, and Te2 and H2Te for the group-VI precursors. The driving force for the CdTe deposition was still positive even at 650 °C. This indicates that CdTe formation from gaseous Cd can proceed thermodynamically. Furthermore, the calculations showed that CdTe decomposes at higher temperature and increasing the II/VI ratio increases the limit of the growth temperature, which coincides with the experimental results.

  5. 2007 Beyond SBIR Phase II: Bringing Technology Edge to the Warfighter

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2007-08-23

    Systems Trade-Off Analysis and Optimization Verification and Validation On-Board Diagnostics and Self - healing Security and Anti-Tampering Rapid...verification; Safety and reliability analysis of flight and mission critical systems On-Board Diagnostics and Self - Healing Model-based monitoring and... self - healing On-board diagnostics and self - healing ; Autonomic computing; Network intrusion detection and prevention Anti-Tampering and Trust

  6. Grid connected integrated community energy system. Phase II: final state 2 report. Cost benefit analysis, operating costs and computer simulation

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Not Available

    1978-03-22

    A grid-connected Integrated Community Energy System (ICES) with a coal-burning power plant located on the University of Minnesota campus is planned. The cost benefit analysis performed for this ICES, the cost accounting methods used, and a computer simulation of the operation of the power plant are described. (LCL)

  7. Analysis of elliptically polarized maximally entangled states for bell inequality tests

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Martin, A.; Smirr, J.-L.; Kaiser, F.; Diamanti, E.; Issautier, A.; Alibart, O.; Frey, R.; Zaquine, I.; Tanzilli, S.

    2012-06-01

    When elliptically polarized maximally entangled states are considered, i.e., states having a non random phase factor between the two bipartite polarization components, the standard settings used for optimal violation of Bell inequalities are no longer adapted. One way to retrieve the maximal amount of violation is to compensate for this phase while keeping the standard Bell inequality analysis settings. We propose in this paper a general theoretical approach that allows determining and adjusting the phase of elliptically polarized maximally entangled states in order to optimize the violation of Bell inequalities. The formalism is also applied to several suggested experimental phase compensation schemes. In order to emphasize the simplicity and relevance of our approach, we also describe an experimental implementation using a standard Soleil-Babinet phase compensator. This device is employed to correct the phase that appears in the maximally entangled state generated from a type-II nonlinear photon-pair source after the photons are created and distributed over fiber channels.

  8. The effect of the menstrual cycle on optic nerve head analysis in healthy women.

    PubMed

    Akar, Munire Erman; Taskin, Omur; Yucel, Iclal; Akar, Yusuf

    2004-12-01

    To determine the effect of the menstrual cycle on optic nerve head topographic analysis in normally menstruating, healthy women. The study included single eyes selected randomly from each of 52 healthy women with regular menstrual cycles. All subjects underwent a complete ocular examination. Optic nerve head topographic analyses were performed using a confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope, the Heidelberg Retinal Tomograph II (HRT II, software version 1.6). The analyses were repeated three times during the menstrual cycle: in the follicular phase (days 7-10 of the cycle), at ovulation, and in the late luteal phase (days 1-3 before menstrual bleeding). Serum oestradiol, progesterone and luteinizing hormone levels were measured at each menstrual phase. Fourteen subjects were excluded from the study. The mean age of the subjects (n = 38) was 25.6 +/- 3.7 years (range 21-34 years). Blood oestradiol levels were significantly lower in the late luteal phase (35.8 pg/ml) (p < 0.0001). The mean disc area of the subjects was 1.94 +/- 0.33 mm(2). The neuroretinal rim area decreased significantly during the luteal phase (p < 0.001). However, the linear cup : disc ratio, cup : disc area ratio and the cup area were significantly higher during the luteal phase (p < 0.001). These observations raise the possibility that sex hormone fluctuations which occur during a normal menstrual cycle in healthy women significantly alter neuroretinal rim area and cup variables of the optic nerve head. These findings should be taken into consideration in the clinical follow-up of young women with glaucoma.

  9. The National Geographic Names Data Base: Phase II instructions

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Orth, Donald J.; Payne, Roger L.

    1987-01-01

    not recorded on topographic maps be added. The systematic collection of names from other sources, including maps, charts, and texts, is termed Phase II. In addition, specific types of features not compiled during Phase I are encoded and added to the data base. Other names of importance to researchers and users, such as historical and variant names, are also included. The rules and procedures for Phase II research, compilation, and encoding are contained in this publication.

  10. Liquid-phase and solid-phase microwave irradiations for reduction of graphite oxide

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhao, Na; Wen, Chen-Yu; Zhang, David Wei; Wu, Dong-Ping; Zhang, Zhi-Bin; Zhang, Shi-Li

    2014-12-01

    In this paper, two microwave irradiation methods: (i) liquid-phase microwave irradiation (MWI) reduction of graphite oxide suspension dissolved in de-ionized water and N, N-dimethylformamide, respectively, and (ii) solid-phase MWI reduction of graphite oxide powder have been successfully carried out to reduce graphite oxide. The reduced graphene oxide products are thoroughly characterized by scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectral analysis, Raman spectroscopy, UV-Vis absorption spectral analysis, and four-point probe conductivity measurements. The results show that both methods can efficiently remove the oxygen-containing functional groups attached to the graphite layers, though the solid-phase MWI reduction method can obtain far more efficiently a higher quality-reduced graphene oxide with fewer defects. The I(D)/I(G) ratio of the solid-phase MWI sample is as low as 0.46, which is only half of that of the liquid-phase MWI samples. The electrical conductivity of the reduced graphene oxide by the solid method reaches 747.9 S/m, which is about 25 times higher than that made by the liquid-phase method.

  11. Mixed response and time-to-event endpoints for multistage single-arm phase II design.

    PubMed

    Lai, Xin; Zee, Benny Chung-Ying

    2015-06-04

    The objective of phase II cancer clinical trials is to determine if a treatment has sufficient activity to warrant further study. The efficiency of a conventional phase II trial design has been the object of considerable debate, particularly when the study regimen is characteristically cytostatic. At the time of development of a phase II cancer trial, we accumulated clinical experience regarding the time to progression (TTP) for similar classes of drugs and for standard therapy. By considering the time to event (TTE) in addition to the tumor response endpoint, a mixed-endpoint phase II design may increase the efficiency and ability of selecting promising cytotoxic and cytostatic agents for further development. We proposed a single-arm phase II trial design by extending the Zee multinomial method to fully use mixed endpoints with tumor response and the TTE. In this design, the dependence between the probability of response and the TTE outcome is modeled through a Gaussian copula. Given the type I and type II errors and the hypothesis as defined by the response rate (RR) and median TTE, such as median TTP, the decision rules for a two-stage phase II trial design can be generated. We demonstrated through simulation that the proposed design has a smaller expected sample size and higher early stopping probability under the null hypothesis than designs based on a single-response endpoint or a single TTE endpoint. The proposed design is more efficient for screening new cytotoxic or cytostatic agents and less likely to miss an effective agent than the alternative single-arm design.

  12. The effect of the menstrual cycle on the optic nerve head analysis of migrainous women.

    PubMed

    Yucel, Iclal; Akar, Munire; Durukan, A; Akar, Yusuf; Taskin, Omur; Dora, Babur; Yilmaz, Nurgul

    2005-03-01

    To determine the effect of the menstrual cycle on the optic nerve head topographic analysis of normally menstruating migrainous women. Randomly selected one eye of 44 migrainous and 49 healthy control women with regular menstrual cycles were included in the study. All subjects underwent complete ocular examination. Optic nervehead topographic analysis were performed using a confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope, HRT II (Heidelberg Retinal Tomograph II, software version 1.6;Heidelberg Engineering, Heidelberg, Germany). They were repeated for two times during the menstrual cycle: in follicular phase (7th to 10th day of the cycle) and in the luteal phase (days 3 to 4 before the menstrual bleeding). Serum estradiol, progesterone, and luteinizing hormone measurements were repeated at each menstrual phase. The mean age of migrainous and control subjects were 31.5 + 5.1 years and 33.4 +/- 3.7 years, respectively (P > 0.05). Their mean disc areas were 2.26 +/- 0.46 mm(2) and 1.95 +/- 0.39 mm(2), respectively(P < 0.05). Control subjects did not demonstrate any difference in the disc topography (P > 0.05). The parameter rim volume decreased, while the parameters cup volume and cup shape measure increased significantly in the luteal phase of the migrainous women (all P values <0.05). Mean intraocular pressure of the migrainous women decreased significantly in luteal phase (P < 0.05). Significant differences exist in the optic rim and cup parameters during the menstrual cycle of the migrainous women. Further clinical trials on ocular blood flow changes during the menstrual cycle of the migrainous women may highlight the role of sex steroids in the optic nerve head of the migrainous women.

  13. Efficacy and safety of tofacitinib for active rheumatoid arthritis with an inadequate response to methotrexate or disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

    PubMed Central

    Song, Gwan Gyu; Bae, Sang-Cheol

    2014-01-01

    Background/Aims The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of tofacitinib (5 and 10 mg twice daily) in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methods A systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that examined the efficacy and safety of tofacitinib in patients with active RA was performed using the Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Controlled Trials Register databases as well as manual searches. Results Five RCTs, including three phase-II and two phase-III trials involving 1,590 patients, met the inclusion criteria. The three phase-II RCTs included 452 patients with RA (144 patients randomized to 5 mg of tofacitinib twice daily, 156 patients randomized to 10 mg of tofacitinib twice daily, and 152 patients randomized to placebo) who were included in this meta-analysis. The American College of Rheumatology 20% response rate was significantly higher in the tofacitinib 5- and 10-mg groups than in the control group (relative risk [RR], 2.445; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.229 to 4.861; p = 0.011; and RR, 2.597; 95% CI, 1.514 to 4.455; p = 0.001, respectively). The safety outcomes did not differ between the tofacitinib 5- and 10-mg groups and placebo groups with the exception of infection in the tofacitinib 10-mg group (RR, 2.133; 95% CI, 1.268 to 3.590; p = 0.004). The results of two phase-III trials (1,123 patients) confirmed the findings in the phase-II studies. Conclusions Tofacitinib at dosages of 5 and 10 mg twice daily was found to be effective in patients with active RA that inadequately responded to methotrexate or disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, and showed a manageable safety profile. PMID:25228842

  14. An Analysis of the Maintenance Performance Measurement System for LAMPS MK III Helicopter Squadrons

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1993-12-01

    effectiveness, efficiency, productivity, quality, budgetability, innovation and quality of work.life ), and determine the significance of AFM funds on... Balance .. Phase II - Unit Sustainment Manpower Cost Methodology, Management Consulting and Research, Falls Church, Virginia, 1981. McCutcheon, David A

  15. Activity profiles of 676 ToxCast Phase II compounds in 231 biochemical high-throughput screening assays

    EPA Science Inventory

    Understanding potential health risks posed by environmental chemicals is a significant challenge elevated by large numbers of diverse chemicals with generally uncharacterized exposures, mechanisms and toxicities. The present study is a performance evaluation and critical analysis...

  16. Molecular, Pathological, Radiological, and Immune Profiling of Non-brainstem Pediatric High-Grade Glioma from the HERBY Phase II Randomized Trial.

    PubMed

    Mackay, Alan; Burford, Anna; Molinari, Valeria; Jones, David T W; Izquierdo, Elisa; Brouwer-Visser, Jurriaan; Giangaspero, Felice; Haberler, Christine; Pietsch, Torsten; Jacques, Thomas S; Figarella-Branger, Dominique; Rodriguez, Daniel; Morgan, Paul S; Raman, Pichai; Waanders, Angela J; Resnick, Adam C; Massimino, Maura; Garrè, Maria Luisa; Smith, Helen; Capper, David; Pfister, Stefan M; Würdinger, Thomas; Tam, Rachel; Garcia, Josep; Thakur, Meghna Das; Vassal, Gilles; Grill, Jacques; Jaspan, Tim; Varlet, Pascale; Jones, Chris

    2018-05-14

    The HERBY trial was a phase II open-label, randomized, multicenter trial evaluating bevacizumab (BEV) in addition to temozolomide/radiotherapy in patients with newly diagnosed non-brainstem high-grade glioma (HGG) between the ages of 3 and 18 years. We carried out comprehensive molecular analysis integrated with pathology, radiology, and immune profiling. In post-hoc subgroup analysis, hypermutator tumors (mismatch repair deficiency and somatic POLE/POLD1 mutations) and those biologically resembling pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma ([PXA]-like, driven by BRAF_V600E or NF1 mutation) had significantly more CD8 + tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, and longer survival with the addition of BEV. Histone H3 subgroups (hemispheric G34R/V and midline K27M) had a worse outcome and were immune cold. Future clinical trials will need to take into account the diversity represented by the term "HGG" in the pediatric population. Copyright © 2018 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  17. Outcome assessment of patients undergoing maxillofacial procedures for the treatment of sleep apnea: comparison of subjective and objective results.

    PubMed

    Dattilo, David J; Drooger, Scott A

    2004-02-01

    The purpose of this study was to compare the subjective findings of the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) to the objective findings of the overnight sleep study (OSS) in 57 patients who underwent phase I and phase II surgery for the correction of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Forty-two patients in phase I category (hyoid suspension, palatal surgery, and/or genioglossus advancement) and 15 patients in phase II category (maxillomandibular advancement) were examined. All patients had an OSS and completion of an ESS preoperatively and at a minimum of 8 weeks postoperatively. The results of each test were evaluated to examine any relationship between the improvements of the findings of the OSS to the changes in the ESS. Using accepted criteria, phase I surgery produced an 80% success rate and phase II surgery produced a greater than 95% success rate in both the respiratory disturbance index and the ESS. 1) Both phase I and phase II procedures are effective in treating OSA. 2) Phase II appears to be more effective in treating OSA using both objective and subjective evaluations. 3) Improvement in ESS scores and excessive daytime sleepiness seems to parallel the improvement in OSS scores in patients undergoing surgical correction of OSA.

  18. A Fire Safety Certification System for Board and Care Operators and Staff. SBIR Phase II: Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Walker, Bonnie L.

    This report describes Phase II of a project which developed a system for delivering fire safety training to board and care providers who serve adults with developmental disabilities. Phase II focused on developing and pilot testing a "train the trainers" workshop for instructors and field testing the provider's workshop. Evaluation of…

  19. Single-arm phase II trial design under parametric cure models.

    PubMed

    Wu, Jianrong

    2015-01-01

    The current practice of designing single-arm phase II survival trials is limited under the exponential model. Trial design under the exponential model may not be appropriate when a portion of patients are cured. There is no literature available for designing single-arm phase II trials under the parametric cure model. In this paper, a test statistic is proposed, and a sample size formula is derived for designing single-arm phase II trials under a class of parametric cure models. Extensive simulations showed that the proposed test and sample size formula perform very well under different scenarios. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  20. Synthesis of quaternary chalcogenide CZTS nanoparticles by a hydrothermal route

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Das, S.; Sa, K.; Mahakul, P. C.; Raiguru, J.; Alam, I.; Subramanyam, BVRS; Mahanandia, P.

    2018-03-01

    Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) has emerged as a potential absorber towards inorganic photovoltaic device application for its outstanding properties like non toxicity, earth abundancy nature, optimal band gap matched with solar spectrum (1.45- 1.65eV), high absorption coefficient (104cm‑1). Here, a low cost, environment friendly facile hydrothermal route to synthesize phase pure CZTS nanoparticles using Cu (II), Zn (II), Sn (II) inorganic metal salts and thiourea as Sulphur source in distilled water solution as precursor is reported. The as synthesized samples characterized by X-Ray diffraction (XRD) and RAMAN confirmed structure and phase of CZTS nanocrystals. The morphology of the prepared CZTS have been characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The particle size is found in the range 4-5 nm with crystalline nature have been characterized by transmission electron microscope (TEM). The optical band gap of the as prepared samples is calculated to be 1.65eV from UV-Visible analysis which proves it can be used towards photovoltaic applications.

  1. Wellness-Promoting Practices Through Girl Scouts: A Pragmatic Superiority Randomized Controlled Trial With Additional Dissemination.

    PubMed

    Cull, Brooke J; Dzewaltowski, David A; Guagliano, Justin M; Rosenkranz, Sara K; Knutson, Cassandra K; Rosenkranz, Richard R

    2018-01-01

    To evaluate the effectiveness of in-person versus online Girl Scout leader wellness training for implementation of wellness-promoting practices during troop meetings (phase I) and to assess training adoption and current practices across the council (phase II). Pragmatic superiority trial (phase 1) followed by serial cross-sectional study (phase II). Girl Scout troop meetings in Northeast Kansas. Eighteen troop leaders from 3 counties (phase 1); 113 troop leaders from 7 counties (phase II). Phase I: Troop leaders attended 2 wellness training sessions (first in groups, second individually), wherein leaders set wellness-promoting practice implementation goals, self-monitored progress, and received guidance and resources for implementation. Leaders received the intervention in person or online. Phase I: At baseline and postintervention, leaders completed a wellness-promoting practice implementation questionnaire assessing practices during troop meetings (max score = 11). Phase II: Leaders completed a survey about typical troop practices and interest in further training. Phase I: Generalized linear mixed modeling. Phase I: In-person training increased wellness-promoting practice implementation more than online training (in person = 2.1 ± 1.8; online = 0.2 ± 1.2; P = .022). Phase II: Fifty-six percent of leaders adopted the training. For 8 of 11 wellness categories, greater than 50% of leaders employed wellness-promoting practices. In-person training was superior to online training for improvements in wellness-promoting practices. Wellness training was adopted by the majority of leaders across the council.

  2. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Starcher, Autumn N.; Elzinga, Evert J.; Sparks, Donald L.

    Previous research demonstrated the formation of single divalent metal (Co, Ni, and ZnAl) and mixed divalent metal (NiZnAl) layered double hydroxide (LDH) phases from reactions of the divalent metal with Al-bearing substrates and soils in both laboratory experiments and in the natural environment. Recently Fe(II)-Al-LDH phases have been found in laboratory batch reaction studies, and although they have yet to be found in the natural environment. Potential locations of Fe(II)-Al-LDH phases in nature include areas with suboxic and anoxic conditions. Because these areas can be environments of significant contaminant accumulation, it is important to understand the possible interactions and impactsmore » of contaminant elements on LDH phase formation. One such contaminant, Zn, can also form as an LDH and has been found to form as a mixed divalent layered hydroxide phase. To understand how Zn impacts the formation of Fe(II)-Al-LDH phase formation and kinetics, 3 mM or 0.8 mM Fe(II) and 0.8 mM Zn were batch reacted with either 10 g/L pyrophyllite or 7.5 g/L γ-Al2O3 for up to three months under anoxic conditions. Aqueous samples were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) and solid samples were analyzed with X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS). Shell-by-shell fits of Fe(II) and co-sorption samples with pyrophyllite show the formation of a mixed divalent metal (Fe(II)-Zn-Al) layered hydroxide phase, while Fe(II) and Zn co-sorption samples with γ-Al2O3 produce Fe(II)-Al-LDH phases and Zn in inner-sphere complexation with the γ-Al2O3. This study demonstrates the formation of a mixed divalent metal layered hydroxide and further iterates the importance of sorbent reactivity on LDH phase formation.« less

  3. A Serological Biopsy Using Five Stomach-Specific Circulating Biomarkers for Gastric Cancer Risk Assessment: A Multi-Phase Study.

    PubMed

    Tu, Huakang; Sun, Liping; Dong, Xiao; Gong, Yuehua; Xu, Qian; Jing, Jingjing; Bostick, Roberd M; Wu, Xifeng; Yuan, Yuan

    2017-05-01

    We aimed to assess a serological biopsy using five stomach-specific circulating biomarkers-pepsinogen I (PGI), PGII, PGI/II ratio, anti-Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) antibody, and gastrin-17 (G-17)-for identifying high-risk individuals and predicting risk of developing gastric cancer (GC). Among 12,112 participants with prospective follow-up from an ongoing population-based screening program using both serology and gastroscopy in China, we conducted a multi-phase study involving a cross-sectional analysis, a follow-up analysis, and an integrative risk prediction modeling analysis. In the cross-sectional analysis, the five biomarkers (especially PGII, the PGI/II ratio, and H. pylori sero-positivity) were associated with the presence of precancerous gastric lesions or GC at enrollment. In the follow-up analysis, low PGI levels and PGI/II ratios were associated with higher risk of developing GC, and both low (<0.5 pmol/l) and high (>4.7 pmol/l) G-17 levels were associated with higher risk of developing GC, suggesting a J-shaped association. In the risk prediction modeling analysis, the five biomarkers combined yielded a C statistic of 0.803 (95% confidence interval (CI)=0.789-0.816) and improved prediction beyond traditional risk factors (C statistic from 0.580 to 0.811, P<0.001) for identifying precancerous lesions at enrollment, and higher serological biopsy scores based on the five biomarkers at enrollment were associated with higher risk of developing GC during follow-up (P for trend <0.001). A serological biopsy composed of the five stomach-specific circulating biomarkers could be used to identify high-risk individuals for further diagnostic gastroscopy, and to stratify individuals' risk of developing GC and thus to guide targeted screening and precision prevention.

  4. A pooled analysis of overall survival in COMFORT-I and COMFORT-II, 2 randomized phase III trials of ruxolitinib for the treatment of myelofibrosis.

    PubMed

    Vannucchi, Alessandro M; Kantarjian, Hagop M; Kiladjian, Jean-Jacques; Gotlib, Jason; Cervantes, Francisco; Mesa, Ruben A; Sarlis, Nicholas J; Peng, Wei; Sandor, Victor; Gopalakrishna, Prashanth; Hmissi, Abdel; Stalbovskaya, Viktoriya; Gupta, Vikas; Harrison, Claire; Verstovsek, Srdan

    2015-09-01

    Ruxolitinib, a potent Janus kinase 1/2 inhibitor, resulted in rapid and durable improvements in splenomegaly and disease-related symptoms in the 2 phase III COMFORT studies. In addition, ruxolitinib was associated with prolonged survival compared with placebo (COMFORT-I) and best available therapy (COMFORT-II). We present a pooled analysis of overall survival in the COMFORT studies using an intent-to-treat analysis and an analysis correcting for crossover in the control arms. Overall, 301 patients received ruxolitinib (COMFORT-I, n=155; COMFORT-II, n=146) and 227 patients received placebo (n=154) or best available therapy (n=73). After a median three years of follow up, intent-to-treat analysis showed that patients who received ruxolitinib had prolonged survival compared with patients who received placebo or best available therapy [hazard ratio=0.65; 95% confidence interval (95%CI): 0.46-0.90; P=0.01]; the crossover-corrected hazard ratio was 0.29 (95%CI: 0.13-0.63). Both patients with intermediate-2- or high-risk disease showed prolonged survival, and patients with high-risk disease in the ruxolitinib group had survival similar to that of patients with intermediate-2-risk disease in the control group. The Kaplan-Meier estimate of overall survival at week 144 was 78% in the ruxolitinib arm, 61% in the intent-to-treat control arm, and 31% in the crossover-adjusted control arm. While larger spleen size at baseline was prognostic for shortened survival, reductions in spleen size with ruxolitinib treatment correlated with longer survival. These findings are consistent with previous reports and support that ruxolitinib offers a survival benefit for patients with myelofibrosis compared with conventional therapies. (clinicaltrials.gov identifiers: COMFORT-I, NCT00952289; COMFORT-II, NCT00934544). Copyright© Ferrata Storti Foundation.

  5. Heavy metal contents of play dough, face and finger paint samples sold in turkish markets.

    PubMed

    Erbas, Zeliha; Karatepe, Aslihan; Soylak, Mustafa

    2017-08-01

    Lead, cadmium, nickel, manganese, cobalt and copper contents of some play dough, face and finger paint samples were determined by using a new solid phase extraction method which has been developed by using multi-walled carbon nanotube with patent blue (V) sodium salt to selectively separate and preconcentrate these metal ions. Flame atomic absorption spectrometry was used to determine the metal ions. Analytical parameters affecting the complex formation and solid phase extraction performance such as pH, the amount of ligand and volume of sample solution were investigated. The recoveries of the studied metal ions were not affected by the foreign ions. Analytes were recovered quantitatively at pH 5.5 and with a nitric acid of 2molL -1 as eluent. Analysis of a certified reference material was performed to validate the method before applying it to determine the metal ions in the real samples. Detection limits were found to be as Pb(II): 7.71μgL -1 , Cu(II): 1.43μgL -1 , Cd(III): 0.21μgL -1 , Mn(II): 0.47μgL -1 , Ni(II): 3.52μgL -1 and Co(II): 1.96μgL -1 . Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  6. Preparation and characterization of magnetic allylamine modified graphene oxide-poly(vinyl acetate-co-divinylbenzene) nanocomposite for vortex assisted magnetic solid phase extraction of some metal ions.

    PubMed

    Khan, Mansoor; Yilmaz, Erkan; Sevinc, Basak; Sahmetlioglu, Ertugrul; Shah, Jasmin; Jan, Muhammad Rasul; Soylak, Mustafa

    2016-01-01

    Magnetic allylamine modified graphene oxide-poly(vinyl acetate-co-divinylbenzene) (MGO-DVB-VA) was synthesized and used for magnetic solid phase extraction of Pb(II), Cd(II), Cu(II), Ni(II) and Co(II) prior to their determination by flame atomic absorption spectroscopy. The adsorbent surface functional group was characterized by using FT-IR and Raman spectroscopy. XRD pattern was used to determine the layers of GO. Surface morphology and elemental composition of the adsorbent were evaluated by using SEM and EDX analysis. Various parameters, effecting adsorption efficiency like initial solution pH, adsorbent dose, type and volume of eluent, volume of sample and diverse ions effects were optimized. The preconcentration factor (PF) is 40 for all the metals and the limits of detection for Pb, Cd, Cu, Ni and Co are in the range of 0.37-2.39 µg L(-1) and relative standard deviation below 3.1%. The method was validated by using the method for certified reference materials (Tobacco Leaves (INCT-OBTL-5), Tomato Leaves (1573a), Certified Water (SPS-ww2) and Certified Water (TMDA 64-2)). The method was successfully applied for natural water and food samples. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  7. Electronic monitoring and voice prompts improve hand hygiene and decrease nosocomial infections in an intermediate care unit.

    PubMed

    Swoboda, Sandra M; Earsing, Karen; Strauss, Kevin; Lane, Stephen; Lipsett, Pamela A

    2004-02-01

    To determine whether electronic monitoring of hand hygiene and voice prompts can improve hand hygiene and decrease nosocomial infection rates in a surgical intermediate care unit. Three-phase quasi-experimental design. Phase I was electronic monitoring and direct observation; phase II was electronic monitoring and computerized voice prompts for failure to perform hand hygiene on room exit; and phase III was electronic monitoring only. Nine-room, 14-bed intermediate care unit in a university, tertiary-care institution. All patient rooms, utility room, and staff lavatory were monitored electronically. All healthcare personnel including physicians, nurses, nursing support personnel, ancillary staff, all visitors and family members, and any other personnel interacting with patients on the intermediate care unit. All patients with an intermediate care unit length of stay >48 hrs were followed for nosocomial infection. Electronic monitoring during all phases, computerized voice prompts during phase II only. We evaluated a total of 283,488 electronically monitored entries into a patient room with 251,526 exits for 420 days (10,080 hrs and 3,549 patient days). Compared with phase I, hand hygiene compliance in patient rooms improved 37% during phase II (odds ratio, 1.38; 95% confidence interval, 1.04-1.83) and 41% in phase III (odds ratio, 1.41; 95% confidence interval, 1.07-1.84). When adjusting for patient admissions during each phase, point estimates of nosocomial infections decreased by 22% during phase II and 48% during phase III; when adjusting for patient days, the number of infections decreased by 10% during phase II and 40% during phase III. Although the overall rate of nosocomial infections significantly decreased when combining phases II and III, the association between nosocomial infection and individual phase was not significant. Electronic monitoring provided effective ongoing feedback about hand hygiene compliance. During both the voice prompt phase and post-intervention phase, hand hygiene compliance and nosocomial infection rates improved suggesting that ongoing monitoring and feedback had both a short-term and, perhaps, a longer-term effect.

  8. Improvement of chemical composition, structure and mechanical properties of heat-resistant chromium-nickel alloy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Varlamova, S.; Trushnikova, A.; Rumyantsev, B.; Butrim, V.; Simonov, V.

    2018-04-01

    A thermodynamic analysis of a multicomponent system of the Cr-Ni alloy (Cr-32Ni-1,5W-0,25V-0,5Ti) with small additions of refractory metals was carried out. The microstructure and phase composition of the base alloy (I) and alloy with additional alloying (II) were studied. The effect of additives on the mechanical properties of the Cr-Ni alloy at 20, 900 and 1080 °C was shown. The microstructure of alloys I and II was studied in the fracture zone of samples after tensile tests at different temperatures. We studied the effect of small additives on the microstructure of alloys and changes in the morphology of the structural components (phases) as a function of temperature and degree of deformation.

  9. Orientation of liquid crystalline blue phases on unidirectionally orienting surfaces

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Takahashi, Misaki; Ohkawa, Takuma; Yoshida, Hiroyuki; Fukuda, Jun-ichi; Kikuchi, Hirostugu; Ozaki, Masanori

    2018-03-01

    Liquid crystalline cholesteric blue phases (BPs) continue to attract interest due to their fast response times and quasi-polarization-independent phase modulation capabilities. Various approaches have recently been proposed to control the crystal orientation of BPs on substrates; however, their basic orientation properties on standard, unidirectionally orienting alignment layers have not been investigated in detail. Through analysis of the azimuthal orientation of Kossel diagrams, we study the 3D crystal orientation of a BP material—with a phase sequence of cholesteric, BP I, and BP II—on unidirectionally orienting surfaces prepared using two methods: rubbing and photoalignment. BP II grown from the isotropic phase is sensitive to surface conditions, with different crystal planes orienting on the two substrates. On the other hand, strong thermal hysteresis is observed in BPs grown through a different liquid crystal phase, implying that the preceding structure determines the orientation. More specifically, the BP II-I transition is accompanied by a rotation of the crystal such that the crystal direction defined by certain low-value Miller indices transform into different directions, and within the allowed rotations, different azimuthal configurations are obtained in the same cell depending on the thermal process. Our findings demonstrate that, for the alignment control of BPs, the thermal process is as important as the properties of the alignment layer.

  10. Equilibrium and kinetic modelling of cadmium (II) biosorption by Dried Biomass Aphanothece sp. from aqueous phase

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Awalina; Harimawan, A.; Haryani, G. S.; Setiadi, T.

    2017-05-01

    The Biosorption of cadmium (II) ions on dried biomass of Aphanothece sp.which previously grown in a photobioreactor system with atmospheric carbon dioxide fed input, was studied in a batch system with respect to initial pH, biomass concentration, contact time, and temperature. The biomass exhibited the highest cadmium (II) uptake capacity at 30ºC, initial pH of 8.0±0.2 in 60 minute and initial cadmium (II) ion concentration of 7.76 mg/L. Maximum biosorption capacities were 16.47 mg/g, 54.95 mg/g and 119.05 mg/g at range of initial cadmium (II) 0.96-3.63 mg/L, 1.99-8.10 mg/L and 6.48-54.38 mg/L, respectively. Uptake kinetics follows the pseudo-second order model while equilibrium is best described by Langmuir isotherm model. Isotherms have been used to determine thermodynamic parameter process (free energy change, enthalpy change and entropy change). FTIR analysis of microalgae biomass revealed the presence of amino acids, carboxyl, hydroxyl, sulfhydryl and carbonyl groups, which are responsible for biosorption of metal ions. During repeated sorption/desorption cycles, the ratio of Cd (II) desorption to biosorption decreased from 81% (at first cycle) to only 27% (at the third cycle). Nevertheless, due to its higher biosorption capability than other adsorbent, Aphanothece sp appears to be a good biosorbent for removing metal Cd (II) ions from aqueous phase.

  11. An automated system for liquid-liquid extraction in monosegmented flow analysis

    PubMed Central

    Facchin, Ileana; Pasquini, Celio

    1997-01-01

    An automated system to perform liquid-liquid extraction in monosegmented flow analysis is described. The system is controlled by a microcomputer that can track the localization of the aqueous monosegmented sample in the manifold. Optical switches are employed to sense the gas-liquid interface of the air bubbles that define the monosegment. The logical level changes, generated by the switches, are flagged by the computer through a home-made interface that also contains the analogue-to-digital converter for signal acquisition. The sequence of operations, necessary for a single extraction or for concentration of the analyte in the organic phase, is triggered by these logical transitions. The system was evaluated for extraction of Cd(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II) and concentration of Cd(II) from aqueous solutions at pH 9.9 (NH3/NH4Cl buffer) into chloroform containing PAN (1-(2-pyridylazo)-2-naphthol) . The results show a mean repeatability of 3% (rsd) for a 2.0 mg l-1 Cd(II) solution and a linear increase of the concentration factor for a 0.5mg l-1 Cd(II) solution observed for up to nine extraction cycles. PMID:18924792

  12. CMIF ECLS system test findings

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Schunk, Richard G.; Carrasquillo, Robyn L.; Ogle, Kathyrn Y.; Wieland, Paul O.; Bagdigian, Robert M.

    1989-01-01

    During 1987 three Space Station integrated Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) tests were conducted at the Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) Core Module Integration Facility (CMIF) as part of the MSFC ECLSS Phase II test program. The three tests ranged in duration from 50 to 150 hours and were conducted inside of the CMIF module simulator. The Phase II partial integrated system test configuration consisted of four regenerative air revitalization subsystems and one regenerative water reclamation subsystem. This paper contains a discussion of results and lessons learned from the Phase II test program. The design of the Phase II test configuration and improvements made throughout the program are detailed. Future plans for the MSFC CMIF test program are provided, including an overview of planned improvements for the Phase III program.

  13. Investing in Our Nation's Youth. National Youth Anti-Drug Media Campaign: Phase II (Final Report).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Office of National Drug Control Policy, Washington, DC.

    This publication presents the findings from an evaluation of Phase II of the National Youth Anti-Drug Media Campaign. The number one goal of the campaign was to educate youth to reject illegal drugs. This report evaluates Phase II and focuses on the effect of paid television advertising on awareness of anti-drug messages among youth, teens, and…

  14. Cu(II), Co(II) and Ni(II) complexes of new Schiff base ligand: Synthesis, thermal and spectroscopic characterizations

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Refat, Moamen S.; El-Sayed, Mohamed Y.; Adam, Abdel Majid A.

    2013-04-01

    Cu(II), Co(II), and Ni(II) complexes were synthesized from 2-[(5-o-chlorophenylazo-2-hydroxybenzylidin)amino]-phenol Schiff base (H2L). Metal ions coordinate in a tetradentate or hexadentate features with these O2N donor ligand, which are characterized by elemental analyses, magnetic moments, infrared, Raman laser, electronic, and 1H NMR spectral studies. The elemental analysis suggests the stoichiometry to be 1:1 (metal:ligand). Reactions with Cu(II), Co(II) and Ni(II), resulted [Cu(H2L)(H2O)2(Cl)]Cl, [Co(H2L)(H2O)3]Cl2ṡ3H2O and [Ni(H2L)(H2O)2]Cl2ṡ6H2O. The thermal decomposition behavior of H2L complexes has been investigated by thermogravimetric analysis (TG/DTG) at a heating rate of 10 °C min-1 under nitrogen atmosphere. The brightness side in this study is to take advantage for the preparation and characterizations of single phases of CuO, CoO and NiO nanoparticles using H2L complexes as precursors via a solid-state decomposition procedure. The crystalline structures of products using X-ray diffractometer (XRD), morphology of particles by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) were investigated.

  15. Field evaluation of asphalt mixture skid resistance and its relationship to aggregate characteristics.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2011-08-01

    This report documents the findings from the research that was carried out as part of Phase II of : TxDOT Project 0-5627. The research included measurements and analysis of mechanical and physical : properties of aggregates used in surface mixes in th...

  16. Validation of contractor HMA testing data in the materials acceptance process - phase II : final report.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2016-08-01

    This study conducted an analysis of the SCDOT HMA specification. A Research Steering Committee provided oversight : of the process. The research process included extensive statistical analyses of test data supplied by SCDOT. : A total of 2,789 AC tes...

  17. Surface pavement solutions for poor subgrade conditions phase II : performance analysis of test sections and implementation guidelines : summary.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2010-12-01

    Several areas within FDOT Districts 4 and 6 contain thick layers of organic soils at relatively shallow depths. Roads built on these soft compressible soils : often develop premature cracking, distortion, and settlement. Traditional repair methods, s...

  18. Evaluation of Wet Chemical ICP-AES Elemental Analysis Methods usingSimulated Hanford Waste Samples-Phase I Interim Report

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Coleman, Charles J.; Edwards, Thomas B.

    2005-04-30

    The wet chemistry digestion method development for providing process control elemental analyses of the Hanford Tank Waste Treatment and Immobilization Plant (WTP) Melter Feed Preparation Vessel (MFPV) samples is divided into two phases: Phase I consists of: (1) optimizing digestion methods as a precursor to elemental analyses by ICP-AES techniques; (2) selecting methods with the desired analytical reliability and speed to support the nine-hour or less turnaround time requirement of the WTP; and (3) providing baseline comparison to the laser ablation (LA) sample introduction technique for ICP-AES elemental analyses that is being developed at the Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL).more » Phase II consists of: (1) Time-and-Motion study of the selected methods from Phase I with actual Hanford waste or waste simulants in shielded cell facilities to ensure that the methods can be performed remotely and maintain the desired characteristics; and (2) digestion of glass samples prepared from actual Hanford Waste tank sludge for providing comparative results to the LA Phase II study. Based on the Phase I testing discussed in this report, a tandem digestion approach consisting of sodium peroxide fusion digestions carried out in nickel crucibles and warm mixed-acid digestions carried out in plastic bottles has been selected for Time-and-Motion study in Phase II. SRNL experience with performing this analytical approach in laboratory hoods indicates that well-trained cell operator teams will be able to perform the tandem digestions in five hours or less. The selected approach will produce two sets of solutions for analysis by ICP-AES techniques. Four hours would then be allocated for performing the ICP-AES analyses and reporting results to meet the nine-hour or less turnaround time requirement. The tandem digestion approach will need to be performed in two separate shielded analytical cells by two separate cell operator teams in order to achieve the nine-hour or less turnaround time. Because of the simplicity of the warm mixed-acid method, a well-trained cell operator team may in time be able to perform both sets of digestions. However, having separate shielded cells for each of the methods is prudent to avoid overcrowding problems that would impede a minimal turnaround time.« less

  19. Generation of phase II in vitro metabolites using homogenized horse liver.

    PubMed

    Wong, Jenny K Y; Chan, George H M; Leung, David K K; Tang, Francis P W; Wan, Terence S M

    2016-02-01

    The successful use of homogenized horse liver for the generation of phase I in vitro metabolites has been previously reported by the authors' laboratory. Prior to the use of homogenized liver, the authors' laboratory had been using mainly horse liver microsomes for carrying out equine in vitro metabolism studies. Homogenized horse liver has shown significant advantages over liver microsomes for in vitro metabolism studies as the procedures are much quicker and have higher capability for generating more in vitro metabolites. In this study, the use of homogenized liver has been extended to the generation of phase II in vitro metabolites (glucuronide and/or sulfate conjugates) using 17β-estradiol, morphine, and boldenone undecylenate as model substrates. It was observed that phase II metabolites could also be generated even without the addition of cofactors. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of the successful use of homogenized horse liver for the generation of phase II metabolites. It also demonstrates the ease with which both phase I and phase II metabolites can now be generated in vitro simply by using homogenized liver without the need for ultracentrifuges or tedious preparation steps. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  20. Validation of Student and Parent Reported Data on the Basic Grant Application Form. Pre-Award Validation Analysis Study: Phases I and II Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Applied Management Sciences, Inc., Silver Spring, MD.

    A Pre-Award Validation Analysis was conducted in 1978-1979 to provide the federal government information about the accuracy of data provided by applicants for Basic Educational Opportunity Grants. New procedures involved: validation of selected applications by college financial aid officers using documentation such as Federal Income Tax forms;…

  1. Biweekly Carboplatin Plus Gemcitabine as First-Line Treatment of Elderly Patients With Advanced Squamous Non-Small-cell Lung Cancer: A Multicenter Phase I-II Trial by the Hellenic Oncology Research Group.

    PubMed

    Karampeazis, Athanasios; Vamvakas, Lambros; Kentepozidis, Nikolaos; Polyzos, Aris; Chandrinos, Vassilis; Rigas, Georgios; Christofyllakis, Charalambos; Kotsakis, Athanasios; Hatzidaki, Dora; Pallis, Athanasios G; Georgoulias, Vassilis

    2016-11-01

    The present study was a phase I/II study to determine the maximum tolerated doses (MTDs) and dose-limiting toxicities of the biweekly carboplatin/gemcitabine combination and evaluate its safety and efficacy in patients aged ≥ 70 years with advanced squamous non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Patients aged ≥ 70 years with advanced or metastatic squamous NSCLC received escalated doses of carboplatin (area under the curve [AUC] 2-2.5 intravenously) and gemcitabine (800-1100 mg/m 2 intravenously) every 2 weeks (phase I). In the phase II, the drugs were administered at their previously defined MTDs (carboplatin, AUC 2.5; gemcitabine, 1100 mg/m 2 ). The primary endpoint was the overall response rate. A total of 69 patients were enrolled (phase I, n = 15). The median age was 76 years (range, 70-84 years); 52 patients had stage IV disease, and 61 and 8 patients had Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0 to 1 and 2, respectively. The MTDs could not be reached at the predefined last dose levels. The dose-limiting toxicities were grade 5 renal toxicity and grade 3 thrombocytopenia. In the phase II study, the overall response rate was 35.8% (95% confidence interval [CI], 23.0%-48.8%). In the intention-to-treat analysis, the median progression-free survival was 6.7 months (95% CI, 4.2-8.8 months), and the median overall survival was 13.3 months (95% CI, 7.1-19.6 months). Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia was observed in 7 patients (12.3%), grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia in 4 patients (7.1%), and grade 2 or 3 fatigue in 10 patients (17.5%). One toxic death occurred in the phase I of the study. The biweekly regimen of gemcitabine and carboplatin showed satisfactory efficacy and a favorable toxicity profile in elderly patients with advanced or metastatic squamous cell NSCLC. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  2. The phase behavior of cationic lipid-DNA complexes.

    PubMed Central

    May, S; Harries, D; Ben-Shaul, A

    2000-01-01

    We present a theoretical analysis of the phase behavior of solutions containing DNA, cationic lipids, and nonionic (helper) lipids. Our model allows for five possible structures, treated as incompressible macroscopic phases: two lipid-DNA composite (lipoplex) phases, namely, the lamellar (L(alpha)(C)) and hexagonal (H(II)(C)) complexes; two binary (cationic/neutral) lipid phases, that is, the bilayer (L(alpha)) and inverse-hexagonal (H(II)) structures, and uncomplexed DNA. The free energy of the four lipid-containing phases is expressed as a sum of composition-dependent electrostatic, elastic, and mixing terms. The electrostatic free energies of all phases are calculated based on Poisson-Boltzmann theory. The phase diagram of the system is evaluated by minimizing the total free energy of the three-component mixture with respect to all the compositional degrees of freedom. We show that the phase behavior, in particular the preferred lipid-DNA complex geometry, is governed by a subtle interplay between the electrostatic, elastic, and mixing terms, which depend, in turn, on the lipid composition and lipid/DNA ratio. Detailed calculations are presented for three prototypical systems, exhibiting markedly different phase behaviors. The simplest mixture corresponds to a rigid planar membrane as the lipid source, in which case, only lamellar complexes appear in solution. When the membranes are "soft" (i.e., low bending modulus) the system exhibits the formation of both lamellar and hexagonal complexes, sometimes coexisting with each other, and with pure lipid or DNA phases. The last system corresponds to a lipid mixture involving helper lipids with strong propensity toward the inverse-hexagonal phase. Here, again, the phase diagram is rather complex, revealing a multitude of phase transitions and coexistences. Lamellar and hexagonal complexes appear, sometimes together, in different regions of the phase diagram. PMID:10733951

  3. Dithizone modified magnetic nanoparticles for fast and selective solid phase extraction of trace elements in environmental and biological samples prior to their determination by ICP-OES.

    PubMed

    Cheng, Guihong; He, Man; Peng, Hanyong; Hu, Bin

    2012-01-15

    A fast and simple method for analysis of trace amounts of Cr(III), Cu(II), Pb(II) and Zn(II) in environmental and biological samples was developed by combining magnetic solid phase extraction (MSPE) with inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) detection. Dithizone modified silica-coated magnetic Fe(3)O(4) nanoparticles (H(2)Dz-SCMNPs) were prepared and used for MSPE of trace amounts of Cr(III), Cu(II), Pb(II) and Zn(II). The prepared magnetic nanoparticles were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The factors affecting the extraction of the target metal ions such as pH, sample volume, eluent, and interfering ions had been investigated and the adsorption mechanism of the target metals on the self-prepared H(2)Dz-SCMNPs was investigated by FT-IR and X-ray photo electron spectroscopy (XPS). Under the optimized conditions, the detection limits of the developed method for Cr(III), Cu(II), Pb(II) and Zn(II) were 35, 11, 62, and 8ngL(-1), respectively, with the enrichment factor of 100. The relative standard deviations (RSDs, c=10μgL(-1), n=7) were in the range of 1.7-3.1% and the linear range was 0.1-100μgL(-1). The proposed method had been validated by two certified reference materials (GSBZ50009-88 environmental water and GBW07601 human hair), and the determined values were in good agreement with the certified values. The method was also applied for the determination of trace metals in real water and human hair samples with recoveries in the range of 85-110% for the spiked samples. The developed MSPE-ICP-OES method has the advantages of simplicity, rapidity, selectivity, high extraction efficiency and is suitable for the analysis of samples with large volume and complex matrix. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  4. Spiral chain structure of high pressure selenium-II{sup '} and sulfur-II from powder x-ray diffraction

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Fujihisa, Hiroshi; Yamawaki, Hiroshi; Sakashita, Mami

    2004-10-01

    The structure of high pressure phases, selenium-II{sup '} (Se-II{sup '}) and sulfur-II (S-II), for {alpha}-Se{sub 8} (monoclinic Se-I) and {alpha}-S{sub 8} (orthorhombic S-I) was studied by powder x-ray diffraction experiments. Se-II{sup '} and S-II were found to be isostructural and to belong to the tetragonal space group I4{sub 1}/acd, which is made up of 16 atoms in the unit cell. The structure consisted of unique spiral chains with both 4{sub 1} and 4{sub 3} screws. The results confirmed that the structure sequence of the pressure-induced phase transitions for the group VIb elements depended on the initial molecular form. The chemicalmore » bonds of the phases are also discussed from the interatomic distances that were obtained.« less

  5. Adsorption of As(III), As(V) and Cu(II) on zirconium oxide immobilized alginate beads in aqueous phase.

    PubMed

    Kwon, Oh-Hun; Kim, Jong-Oh; Cho, Dong-Wan; Kumar, Rahul; Baek, Seung Han; Kurade, Mayur B; Jeon, Byong-Hun

    2016-10-01

    A composite adsorbent to remove arsenite [As(III)], arsenate [As(V)], and copper [Cu(II)] from aqueous phase was synthesized by immobilizing zirconium oxide on alginate beads (ZOAB). The composition (wt%) of ZOAB (Zr-34.0; O-32.7; C-21.3; Ca-1.0) was confirmed by energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis. Sorption studies were conducted on single and binary sorbate systems, and the effects of contact time, initial adsorbate concentration, and pH on the adsorption performance of ZOAB (pHPZC = 4.3) were monitored. The sorption process for As(III)/As(V) and Cu(II) reached an equilibrium state within 240 h and 24 h, respectively, with maximum sorption capacities of 32.3, 28.5, and 69.9 mg g(-1), respectively. The addition of Cu(II) was favorable for As(V) sorption in contrast to As(III). In the presence of 48.6 mg L(-1) Cu(II), the sorption capacity of As(V) increased from 1.5 to 3.8 mg g(-1) after 240 h. The sorption data for As(III)/As(V) and Cu(II) conformed the Freundlich and Langmuir isotherm models, respectively. The adsorption of As(III), As(V), and Cu(II) followed pseudo second order kinetics. The effect of arsenic species on Cu(II) sorption was insignificant. The results of present study demonstrated that the synthesized sorbent could be useful for the simultaneous removal of both anionic and cationic contaminants from wastewaters. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. The dynamic process of adherence to a renal therapeutic regimen: perspectives of patients undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis.

    PubMed

    Lam, Lai Wah; Lee, Diana T F; Shiu, Ann T Y

    2014-06-01

    The nature of end-stage renal disease and the need for continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis require patients to manage various aspects of the disease, its symptoms and treatment. After attending a training programme, patients are expected to adhere to the renal therapeutic regimen and manage their disease with the knowledge and skills learned. While patients are the stakeholders of their health and related behaviour, their perceptions of adherence and how they adhere to their renal therapeutic regimen remains unexplored. To understand adherence from patients' perspectives and to describe changes in adherence to a therapeutic regimen among patients undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis. This study used a mixed methods design with two phases - a survey in phase I and semi-structured interviews in phase II. This paper presents phase II of the study. The study was conducted at a renal unit of an acute hospital in Hong Kong. Based on the phase I survey results, maximum variation sampling was employed to purposively recruit 36 participants of different genders (18 males, 18 females), ages (35-76 years), and lengths of dialysis experience (11-103 months) for the phase II interviews. Data were collected by tape-recorded semi-structured interviews. Content analysis was employed to analyse the transcribed data. Data collection and analysis were conducted simultaneously. Adherence was a dynamic process with three stages. At the stage of initial adherence, participants attempted to follow instructions but found that strict persistent adherence was impossible. After the first 2-6 months of dialysis, participants entered the stage of subsequent adherence, when they adopted selective adherence through experimenting, monitoring and making continuous adjustments. The stage of long-term adherence commenced after 3-5 years of dialysis, when participants were able to assimilate the modified therapeutic regimen into everyday life. The process of adherence was dynamic as there were fluctuations at each stage of the participants' adherence. With reference to each stage identified, nursing interventions can be developed to help patients achieve smooth transition throughout all the stages. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. A randomized, multicenter, phase II/III study to determine the optimal dose and to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pegteograstim (GCPGC) on chemotherapy-induced neutropenia compared to pegfilgrastim in breast cancer patients: KCSG PC10-09.

    PubMed

    Lee, Ki Hyeong; Kim, Ji-Yeon; Lee, Moon Hee; Han, Hye Sook; Lim, Joo Han; Park, Keon Uk; Park, In Hae; Cho, Eun Kyung; Yoon, So Young; Kim, Jee Hyun; Choi, In Sil; Park, Jae Hoo; Choi, Young Jin; Kim, Hee-Jun; Jung, Kyung Hae; Kim, Si-Young; Oh, Do-Youn; Im, Seock-Ah

    2016-04-01

    Pegylated granulocyte-colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) is frequently used to prevent febrile neutropenia (FN) in patients undergoing chemotherapy with a high risk of myelosuppression. This phase II/III study was conducted to determine the adequate dose of pegteograstim, a new formulation of pegylated G-CSF, and to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pegteograstim compared to pegfilgrastim. In the phase II part, 60 breast cancer patients who were undergoing DA (docetaxel and doxorubicin) or TAC (docetaxel, doxorubicin, and cyclophosphamide) chemotherapy were randomly selected to receive a single subcutaneous injection of 3.6 or 6.0 mg pegteograstim on day 2 of each chemotherapy cycle. The phase III part was seamlessly started to compare the dose of pegteograstim at selected in phase II with 6.0 mg pegfilgrastim in 117 breast cancer patients. The primary endpoint of both the phase II and III parts was the duration of grade 4 neutropenia in the chemotherapy cycle 1. The mean duration of grade 4 neutropenia for the 3.6 mg pegteograstim (n = 33) was similar to that for the 6.0 mg pegteograstim (n = 26) (1.97 ± 1.79 days vs. 1.54 ± 0.95 days, p = 0.33). The 6.0 mg pegteograstim was selected to be compared with the 6.0 mg pegfilgrastim in the phase III part. In the phase III part, the primary analysis revealed that the efficacy of pegteograstim (n = 56) was non-inferior to that of pegfilgrastim (n = 59) [duration of grade 4 neutropenia, 1.64 ± 1.18 days vs. 1.80 ± 1.05 days; difference, -0.15 ± 1.11 (p = 0.36, 97.5 % confidence intervals = 0.57 and 0.26)]. The time to the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) recovery of pegteograstim (≥2000/μL) was significantly shorter than that of pegfilgrastim (8.85 ± 1.45 days vs. 9.83 ± 1.20 days, p < 0.0001). Other secondary endpoints showed no significant difference between the two groups. The safety profiles of the two groups did not differ significantly. Pegteograstim was shown to be as effective as pegfilgrastim in the reduction of chemotherapy-induced neutropenia in the breast cancer patients who were undergoing chemotherapy with a high risk of myelosuppression.

  8. The Origins of [C ii] Emission in Local Star-forming Galaxies

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Croxall, K. V.; Smith, J. D.; Pellegrini, E.

    The [C ii] 158 μ m fine-structure line is the brightest emission line observed in local star-forming galaxies. As a major coolant of the gas-phase interstellar medium, [C ii] balances the heating, including that due to far-ultraviolet photons, which heat the gas via the photoelectric effect. However, the origin of [C ii] emission remains unclear because C{sup +} can be found in multiple phases of the interstellar medium. Here we measure the fractions of [C ii] emission originating in the ionized and neutral gas phases of a sample of nearby galaxies. We use the [N ii] 205 μ m fine-structuremore » line to trace the ionized medium, thereby eliminating the strong density dependence that exists in the ratio of [C ii]/[N ii] 122 μ m. Using the FIR [C ii] and [N ii] emission detected by the KINGFISH (Key Insights on Nearby Galaxies: a Far- Infrared Survey with Herschel ) and Beyond the Peak Herschel programs, we show that 60%–80% of [C ii] emission originates from neutral gas. We find that the fraction of [C ii] originating in the neutral medium has a weak dependence on dust temperature and the surface density of star formation, and has a stronger dependence on the gas-phase metallicity. In metal-rich environments, the relatively cooler ionized gas makes substantially larger contributions to total [C ii] emission than at low abundance, contrary to prior expectations. Approximate calibrations of this metallicity trend are provided.« less

  9. Qualitative Research on Fatigue Associated with Depression: Content Validity of the Fatigue Associated with Depression Questionnaire (FAsD-V2).

    PubMed

    Matza, Louis S; Murray, Lindsey T; Phillips, Glenn A; Konechnik, Thomas J; Dennehy, Ellen B; Bush, Elizabeth N; Revicki, Dennis A

    2015-10-01

    Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD). The Fatigue Associated with Depression Questionnaire (FAsD) was developed to assess fatigue and its impact in patients with MDD. The current article presents the qualitative research conducted to develop and examine the content validity of the FAsD and FASD-Version 2 (FAsD-V2). Three phases of qualitative research were conducted with patients recruited from a geographically diverse range of clinics in the US. Phase I included concept elicitation focus groups, followed by cognitive interviews. Phase II employed similar techniques in a more targeted sample. Phase III included cognitive interviews to examine whether minor edits made after Phase II altered comprehensibility of the instrument. Concept elicitation focused on patients' perceptions of fatigue and its impact. Cognitive interviews focused on comprehension, clarity, relevance, and comprehensiveness of the instrument. Data were collected using semi-structured discussion guides. Thematic analyses were conducted and saturation was examined. A total of 98 patients with MDD were included. Patients' statements during concept elicitation in phases I and II supported item development and content. Cognitive interviews supported the relevance of the instrument in the target population, and patients consistently demonstrated a good understanding of the instructions, items, response options, and recall period. Minor changes to instructions for the FAsD-V2 did not affect interpretation of the instrument. This qualitative research supports the content validity of the FAsD and FAsD-V2. These results add to previous quantitative psychometric analysis suggesting the FAsD-V2 is a useful tool for assessing fatigue and its impact in patients with MDD.

  10. Effects of Mitigation Measures on Productivity of the White Sturgeon Populations in the Columbia River Downstream from McNary Dam, and Status and Habitat Requirements of White Sturgeon Populations in the Columbia and Snake Rivers Upstream from McNary Dam, 1992-1993 Annual Report.

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Beamesdorfer, Raymond C.; Nigro, Anthony A.

    We report on our progress from April 1992-March 1993 in research on white sturgeon in the lower Columbia River. The study began in July 1986 and progress through 1992 was summarized in a comprehensive report in 2 volumes (Beamesderfer and Nigro 1993a, 1993b). This report details activities during the first year of Phase II of this sturgeon research. In Phase I, we assessed the status and habitat requirements of the white sturgeon populations in the Columbia River downstream from McNary Dam. Phase II will examine the effects on white sturgeon productivity of mitigative measures recommended in Phase I. The statusmore » and habitat requirements of white sturgeon populations upstream from McNary Dam will also be examined in Phase II. The study is a cooperative effort by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Washington Department of Fisheries, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and National Marine Fisheries Service. Work during the past year has focused on: (1) analysis of results of limited sampling conducted in 1992, (2) submission of Phase I results to the peer-review literature to ensure widespread dissemination, clarity of presentation, and credibility of findings, and (3) preparations for additional field work in 1993. In report sections A to D, each agency reports 1992 results if applicable and the current status of manuscripts. Results of field work conducted in 1993 will be reported in the 1994 annual report.« less

  11. Slip-stacking Dynamics for High-Power Proton Beams at Fermilab

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Eldred, Jeffrey Scott

    Slip-stacking is a particle accelerator configuration used to store two particle beams with different momenta in the same ring. The two beams are longitudinally focused by two radiofrequency (RF) cavities with a small frequency difference between them. Each beam is synchronized to one RF cavity and perturbed by the other RF cavity. Fermilab uses slip-stacking in the Recycler so as to double the power of the 120 GeV proton beam in the Main Injector. This dissertation investigates the dynamics of slip-stacking beams analytically, numerically and experimentally. In the analytic analysis, I find the general trajectory of stable slip-stacking particles andmore » identify the slip-stacking parametric resonances. In the numerical analysis, I characterize the stable phase-space area and model the particle losses. In particular, I evaluate the impact of upgrading the Fermilab Booster cycle-rate from 15 Hz to 20 Hz as part of the Proton Improvement Plan II (PIP-II). The experimental analysis is used to verify my approach to simulating slip-stacking loss. I design a study for measuring losses from the longitudinal single-particle dynamics of slip-stacking as a function of RF cavity voltage and RF frequency separation. I further propose the installation of a harmonic RF cavity and study the dynamics of this novel slip-stacking configuration. I show the harmonic RF cavity cancels out parametric resonances in slip-stacking, reduces emittance growth during slip-stacking, and dramatically enhances the stable phase-space area. The harmonic cavity is expected to reduce slip-stacking losses to far exceed PIP-II requirements. These results raise the possibility of extending slip-stacking beyond the PIP-II era.« less

  12. Bulk Fermi Surfaces of the Dirac Type-II Semimetallic Candidates M Al3 (Where M =V , Nb, and Ta)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chen, K.-W.; Lian, X.; Lai, Y.; Aryal, N.; Chiu, Y.-C.; Lan, W.; Graf, D.; Manousakis, E.; Baumbach, R. E.; Balicas, L.

    2018-05-01

    We report a de Haas-van Alphen (dHvA) effect study on the Dirac type-II semimetallic candidates M Al3 (where, M =V , Nb and Ta). The angular dependence of their Fermi surface (FS) cross-sectional areas reveals a remarkably good agreement with our first-principles calculations. Therefore, dHvA supports the existence of tilted Dirac cones with Dirac type-II nodes located at 100, 230 and 250 meV above the Fermi level ɛF for VAl3 , NbAl3 and TaAl3 respectively, in agreement with the prediction of broken Lorentz invariance in these compounds. However, for all three compounds we find that the cyclotron orbits on their FSs, including an orbit nearly enclosing the Dirac type-II node, yield trivial Berry phases. We explain this via an analysis of the Berry phase where the position of this orbit, relative to the Dirac node, is adjusted within the error implied by the small disagreement between our calculations and the experiments. We suggest that a very small amount of doping could displace ɛF to produce topologically nontrivial orbits encircling their Dirac node(s).

  13. Enantiomeric separation of type I and type II pyrethroid insecticides with different chiral stationary phases by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Ping; Yu, Qian; He, Xiulong; Qian, Kun; Xiao, Wei; Xu, Zhifeng; Li, Tian; He, Lin

    2018-04-01

    The enantiomeric separation of type I (bifenthrin, BF) and type II (lambda-cyhalothrin, LCT) pyrethroid insecticides on Lux Cellulose-1, Lux Cellulose-3, and Chiralpak IC chiral columns was investigated by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. Methanol/water or acetonitrile/water was used as mobile phase at a flow rate of 0.8 mL/min. The effects of chiral stationary phase, mobile phase composition, column temperature, and thermodynamic parameters on enantiomer separation were carefully studied. Bifenthrin got a partial separation on Lux Cellulose-1 column and baseline separation on Lux Cellulose-3 column, while LCT enantiomers could be completely separated on both Lux Cellulose-1 and Lux Cellulose-3 columns. Chiralpak IC provided no separation ability for both BF and LCT. Retention factor (k) and selectivity factor (α) decreased with the column temperature increasing from 10°C to 40°C for both BF and LCT enantiomers. Thermodynamic parameters including ∆H and ∆S were also calculated, and the maximum R s were not always obtained at lowest temperature. Furthermore, the quantitative analysis methods for BF and LCT enantiomers in soil and water were also established. Such results provide a new approach for pyrethroid separation under reversed-phase condition and contribute to environmental risk assessment of pyrethroids at enantiomer level. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  14. Model Transformation for a System of Systems Dependability Safety Case

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Murphy, Judy; Driskell, Steve

    2011-01-01

    The presentation reviews the dependability and safety effort of NASA's Independent Verification and Validation Facility. Topics include: safety engineering process, applications to non-space environment, Phase I overview, process creation, sample SRM artifact, Phase I end result, Phase II model transformation, fault management, and applying Phase II to individual projects.

  15. Early Restoration | NOAA Gulf Spill Restoration

    Science.gov Websites

    Early Restoration Plan. On April 20, 2011 we reached an agreement with BP to start restoration planning draft plan for the third phase of early restoration in December 2013. We are considering your comments : All Phase III information and documents Phase II Useful Links: Phase II Early Restoration Plan &

  16. Doxycycline in early CJD: a double-blinded randomised phase II and observational study.

    PubMed

    Varges, Daniela; Manthey, Henrike; Heinemann, Uta; Ponto, Claudia; Schmitz, Matthias; Schulz-Schaeffer, Walter J; Krasnianski, Anna; Breithaupt, Maren; Fincke, Fabian; Kramer, Katharina; Friede, Tim; Zerr, Inga

    2017-02-01

    The main objective of the present study is to study the therapeutic efficiency of doxycycline in a double-blinded randomised phase II study in a cohort of patients with sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (sCJD). From the National Reference Center of TSE Surveillance in Germany, patients with probable or definite sCJD were recruited for a double-blinded randomised study with oral doxycycline (EudraCT 2006-003934-14). In addition, we analysed the data from patients with CJD who received compassionate treatment with doxycycline in a separate group. Potential factors which influence survival such as age at onset, gender, codon 129 polymorphism and cognitive functions were evaluated. The primary outcome measure was survival. Group 1: in the double-blinded randomised phase II study, 7 patients in the treatment group were compared with 5 controls. Group 2: 55 patients with sCJD treated with oral doxycycline were analysed and compared with 33 controls by a stratified propensity score applied to a Cox proportional hazard analysis. The results of both studies were combined by means of a random-effects meta-analysis. A slight increase in survival time in the doxycycline treatment group was observed (p=0.049, HR=0.63 (95% CI 0.402 to 0.999)). On the basis of our studies, a larger trial of doxycycline should be performed in persons in the earliest stages of CJD. EudraCT 2006-003934-14; Results. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

  17. 43 CFR 11.63 - Injury determination phase-pathway determination.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ...; and (C) Depth of exposed bed, bank, or shoreline sediments. (ii) As appropriate to the exposed... adhered to, bound to, or otherwise covered surface tissue, or was ingested, or inhaled but not assimilated, the area of dispersion may be determined based upon chemical analysis of the appropriate tissues or...

  18. 43 CFR 11.63 - Injury determination phase-pathway determination.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ...; and (C) Depth of exposed bed, bank, or shoreline sediments. (ii) As appropriate to the exposed... adhered to, bound to, or otherwise covered surface tissue, or was ingested, or inhaled but not assimilated, the area of dispersion may be determined based upon chemical analysis of the appropriate tissues or...

  19. 43 CFR 11.63 - Injury determination phase-pathway determination.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ...; and (C) Depth of exposed bed, bank, or shoreline sediments. (ii) As appropriate to the exposed... adhered to, bound to, or otherwise covered surface tissue, or was ingested, or inhaled but not assimilated, the area of dispersion may be determined based upon chemical analysis of the appropriate tissues or...

  20. VII data use analysis and processing (DUAP) : final project report (phase II) (October 2010) with revision (July 2011).

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2011-07-01

    This report covers several key subjects related to the generation of IntelliDriveSM probe vehicle data and use of this data in application of interest to state departments of transportation and local public transportation agencies. The evaluations co...

  1. Phase II : correlation between experimental and finite element analysis : Alaska bridge 255-Chulitna River bridge.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2014-09-01

    In this study, we will monitor the behavior of the Alaska Chulitna Bridge for the specific purpose of assisting the DOT in performing an accurate : condition assessment of this bridge. : Based on the state-of-the-art SHM knowledge and technologies wi...

  2. Embedded data collector (EDC) evaluation, phase II - comparison with instrumented static load tests.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2013-12-01

    A total of 139 piles and 213,000 hammer blows were compared between the Embedded Data Collector : (EDC), the Pile Driving Analyzer (PDA), and the CAse Pile Wave Analysis Program (CAPWAP) along with : SmartPile Review versions (3.6, 3.72, 3.73, 3.76 a...

  3. Effectiveness of safety belt warning and interlock systems

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1973-04-01

    Rental cars in Fayetteville, N.C., were equipped with four seat belt and warning systems: (Phase I) detachable shoulder and lap belt, no warning system; (Phase II) detachable shoulder and lap belt, warning system (January 1, 1972 standard); (Phase II...

  4. Recent Advances in Understanding of Kinetic Interplay Between Phase II Metabolism and Efflux Transport.

    PubMed

    Wang, Shuai; Xing, Huijie; Zhao, Mengjing; Lu, Danyi; Li, Zhijie; Dong, Dong; Wu, Baojian

    2016-01-01

    Mechanistic understanding of the metabolism-transport interplay assumes great importance in pharmaceutical fields because the knowledge can help to interpret drug/xenobiotic metabolism and disposition studies as well as the drug-drug interactions in vivo. About 10 years ago, it started to recognize that cellular phase II metabolism is strongly influenced by the excretion (efflux transport) of generated metabolites, a kinetic phenomenon termed "phase II metabolism-transport interplay". This interplay is believed to have significant effects on the pharmacokinetics (bioavailability) of drugs/chemicals undergoing phase II metabolism. In this article, we review the studies investigating the phase II metabolism-transport interplay using cell models, perfused rat intestine, and intact rats. The potential confounding factors in exploring such interplay is also summarized. Moreover, the mechanism underlying the phase II metabolism-transport interplay is discussed. Various studies with engineered cells and rodents have demonstrated that there is an interaction (interplay) between phase II enzymes and efflux transporters. This type of interplay mainly refers to the dependence of phase II (conjugative) metabolism on the activities of efflux transporters. In general, inhibiting efflux transporters or decreasing their expression causes the reductions in metabolite excretion, apparent excretion clearance (CLapp) and total metabolism (fmet), as well as an increase in the intracellular level of metabolite (Ci). The deconjugation mediated by hydrolase (acting as a "bridge") is essential for the interplay to play out based on pharmacokinetic modeling/simulations, cell and animal studies. The hydrolases bridge the two processes (i.e., metabolite formation and excretion) and enable the interplay thereof (a bridging effect). Without the bridge, metabolite formation is independent on its downstream process excretion, thus impact of metabolite excretion on its formation is impossible. Deconjugation (mediated by hydrolases) plays an essential role in the conjugation-transport interplay. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

  5. Defense Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR) Abstracts of Phase 2 Awards: Fiscal Year 1987 (ARMY)

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1987-01-01

    Program, this report presents the abstracts of those proposals which have resulted in contract awards. Further, the name and address of each firm...CONDITIONS; AND, PRODUCE A FINAL REPORT AND A FINAL DESIGN PACKAGE THAT CAN BE USED IN THE PRODUCTION OF THE UNIT. BY THE END OF PHASE II THE ARMY CAN...NUMBER: DAAD07-87-C-107 ROGER W ANDERSON TITLE: AUTOMATED WEATHER FACTOR ANALYSIS AND DISPLAY TOPIC# 71 OFFICE: LABCOM/ASL IDENT#: 16015 SMALL BUSINESS

  6. Life-cycle environmental performance of renewable building materials in the context of residential construction : phase II research report : an extension to the 2005 phase I research report. Module N, Life-cycle inventory of manufacturing prefinished engineered wood flooring in the eastern United States

    Treesearch

    Richard D. Bergman; Scott A. Bowe

    2011-01-01

    This study summarizes the environmental performance of prefinished engineered wood flooring using life-cycle inventory (LCI) analysis. Using primary mill data gathered from manufacturers in the eastern United States and applying the methods found in Consortium for Research on Renewable Industrial Materials (CORRIM) Research Guidelines and International Organization of...

  7. Air Vehicle Integration and Technology Research (AVIATR). Delivery Order 0023: Predictive Capability for Hypersonic Structural Response and Life Prediction: Phase 2 - Detailed Design of Hypersonic Cruise Vehicle Hot-Structure

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2012-05-01

    30 Figure 5.0.1 Phase II Analysis Process ...panel study the panel selection process followed a review of the outer skin environment investigated during the HTV-3X program which was suitable as...Subsequently, Panel 1B was down-selected from the screening process as it was observed to be subjected to stronger thermal field contributions due to fuel

  8. Phase-II trials in osteosarcoma recurrences: A systematic review of past experience.

    PubMed

    Omer, Natacha; Le Deley, Marie-Cécile; Piperno-Neumann, Sophie; Marec-Berard, Perrine; Italiano, Antoine; Corradini, Nadège; Bellera, Carine; Brugières, Laurence; Gaspar, Nathalie

    2017-04-01

    The most appropriate design of Phase-II trials evaluating new therapies in osteosarcoma remains poorly defined. To study consistency in phase-II clinical trials evaluating new therapies for osteosarcoma recurrences with respect to eligibility criteria, response assessment, end-points, statistical design and reported results. Systematic review of clinical trials registered on clinicaltrials.gov, clinicaltrialsregister.eu and French National Cancer Institute website or referenced in PubMed and American Society of Clinical Oncology websites, between 2003 and 2016, using the following criteria: (osteosarcoma OR bone sarcoma) AND (Phase-II). Among the 99 trials identified, 80 were Phase-II, 17 I/II and 2 II/III, evaluating mostly targeted therapy (n = 40), and chemotherapy alone (n = 26). Results were fully (n = 28) or partially (abstract, n = 6) published. Twenty-four trials were dedicated to osteosarcoma, 22 had an osteosarcoma stratum. Twenty-eight out of 99 trials refer to the age range observed at recurrence (28%). Overall, 65 trials were run in multicentre settings, including 17 international trials. Only 9 trials were randomised. The primary end-point was tumour response in 71 trials (response rate, n = 40 or best response, n = 31), with various definitions (complete + partial ± minor response and stable disease), mainly evaluated with RECIST criteria (n = 69); it was progression-free survival in 24 trials and OS in 3. In single-arm trials evaluating response rate, the null hypothesis tested (when available, n = 12) varied from 5% to 25%. No robust historical data can currently be derived from past efficacy Phase-II trials. There is an urgent need to develop international randomised Phase-II trials across all age ranges with standardised primary end-point. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  9. RF transient analysis and stabilization of the phase and energy of the proposed PIP-II LINAC

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Edelen, J. P.; Chase, B. E.

    This paper describes a recent effort to develop and benchmark a simulation tool for the analysis of RF transients and their compensation in an H- linear accelerator. Existing tools in this area either focus on electron LINACs or lack fundamental details about the LLRF system that are necessary to provide realistic performance estimates. In our paper we begin with a discussion of our computational models followed by benchmarking with existing beam-dynamics codes and measured data. We then analyze the effect of RF transients and their compensation in the PIP-II LINAC, followed by an analysis of calibration errors and how amore » Newton’s Method based feedback scheme can be used to regulate the beam energy to within the specified limits.« less

  10. Robotic solid phase extraction and high performance liquid chromatographic analysis of ranitidine in serum or plasma.

    PubMed

    Lloyd, T L; Perschy, T B; Gooding, A E; Tomlinson, J J

    1992-01-01

    A fully automated assay for the analysis of ranitidine in serum and plasma, with and without an internal standard, was validated. It utilizes robotic solid phase extraction with on-line high performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) analysis. The ruggedness of the assay was demonstrated over a three-year period. A Zymark Py Technology II robotic system was used for serial processing from initial aspiration of samples from original collection containers, to final direct injection onto the on-line HPLC system. Automated serial processing with on-line analysis provided uniform sample history and increased productivity by freeing the chemist to analyse data and perform other tasks. The solid phase extraction efficiency was 94% throughout the assay range of 10-250 ng/mL. The coefficients of variation for within- and between-day quality control samples ranged from 1 to 6% and 1 to 5%, respectively. Mean accuracy for between-day standards and quality control results ranged from 97 to 102% of the respective theoretical concentrations.

  11. Analysis of coupled-bunch instabilities for the NSLS-II storage ring with a 500MHz 7-cell PETRA-III cavity

    DOE PAGES

    Bassi, G.; Blednykh, A.; Cheng, W.; ...

    2015-12-11

    We present the NSLS-II storage ring that is designed to operate with superconducting RF-cavities with the aim to store an average current of 500 mA distributed in 1080 bunches, with a gap in the uniform filling for ion clearing. At the early stage of the commissioning (phase 1), characterized by a bare lattice without damping wigglers and without Landau cavities, a normal conducting 7-cell PETRA-III RF-cavity structure has been installed with the goal to store an average current of 25 mA. In this paper we discuss our analysis of coupled-bunch instabilities driven by the Higher Order Modes (HOMs) of themore » 7-cell PETRA-III RF-cavity. As a cure of the instabilities, we apply a well-known scheme based on a proper detuning of the HOMs frequencies based upon cavity temperature change, and the use of the beneficial effect of the slow head–tail damping at positive chromaticity to increase the transverse coupled-bunch instability thresholds. In addition, we discuss measurements of coupled-bunch instabilities observed during the phase 1 commissioning of the NSLS-II storage ring. In our analysis we rely, in the longitudinal case, on the theory of coupled-bunch instability for uniform fillings, while in the transverse case we complement our studies with numerical simulations with OASIS, a novel parallel particle tracking code for self-consistent simulations of collective effects driven by short and long-range wakefields.« less

  12. Reflective Cracking of Flexible Pavements Phase I and II Final Recommendations

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2008-02-02

    This report summarizes all the findings and recommendations from the Phase I and Phase II of the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) study initiated in 2006 to mitigate reflective cracking in hot mix asphalt (HMA) overlays. Based on the analys...

  13. ROS-dependent Atg4 upregulation mediated autophagy plays an important role in Cd-induced proliferation and invasion in A549 cells.

    PubMed

    Lv, Wei; Sui, Linlin; Yan, Xiaona; Xie, Huaying; Jiang, Liping; Geng, Chengyan; Li, Qiujuan; Yao, Xiaofeng; Kong, Ying; Cao, Jun

    2018-01-05

    Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic heavy metal that is widely used in industry and agriculture. In this study the role of autophagy in Cd-induced proliferation, migration and invasion was investigated in A549 cells. Exposure to Cd (2 μM) significantly increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, induced autophagy and enhanced cell growth, migration and invasion in A549 cells. Western blot analysis showed that the expression of autophagy-related proteins, LC3-II, Beclin-1 and Atg4 and invasion-related protein MMP-9 were upregulated in Cd-treated cells. N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) markedly prevented Cd-induced proliferation of A549 cells and the increasing protein level of LC3-II and Atg4. Blocking Atg4 expression by siRNA strongly reduced Beclin-1 and LC3-II protein expression and the number of autophagosome positive cells induced by Cd. Furthermore, Atg4 siRNA increased the number of cells at G0/G1 phase, reduced the number of S and G2/M phase cells, and inhibited Cd-induced cell growth significantly compared with that of Cd-treated Control siRNA cells. 3-MA pretreatment increased the percentage of G0/G1 phase cells, decreased S phase and G2/M phase percentage, and inhibited Cd-induced cell growth remarkably compared with that of only Cd-treated cells. Knocking down Atg4 reduced the number of cells that migrated and invaded through the Matrigel matrix significantly and led to a significant decrease of MMP-9 expression. In addition, in lung tissues of Cd-treated BALB/c mice, the increased expression of LC3-II, Beclin-1 and Atg4 were observed. Taken together, our results demonstrated that ROS-dependent Atg4-mediated autophagy plays an important role in Cd-induced cell growth, migration and invasion in A549 cells. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  14. A phase I/II trial of hydroxychloroquine in conjunction with radiation therapy and concurrent and adjuvant temozolomide in patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma multiforme

    PubMed Central

    Rosenfeld, Myrna R; Ye, Xiaobu; Supko, Jeffrey G; Desideri, Serena; Grossman, Stuart A; Brem, Steven; Mikkelson, Tom; Wang, Daniel; Chang, Yunyoung C; Hu, Janice; McAfee, Quentin; Fisher, Joy; Troxel, Andrea B; Piao, Shengfu; Heitjan, Daniel F; Tan, Kay-See; Pontiggia, Laura; O’Dwyer, Peter J; Davis, Lisa E; Amaravadi, Ravi K

    2014-01-01

    Preclinical studies indicate autophagy inhibition with hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) can augment the efficacy of DNA-damaging therapy. The primary objective of this trial was to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and efficacy of HCQ in combination with radiation therapy (RT) and temozolomide (TMZ) for newly diagnosed glioblastoma (GB). A 3 + 3 phase I trial design followed by a noncomparative phase II study was conducted in GB patients after initial resection. Patients received HCQ (200 to 800 mg oral daily) with RT and concurrent and adjuvant TMZ. Quantitative electron microscopy and immunoblotting were used to assess changes in autophagic vacuoles (AVs) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Population pharmacokinetic (PK) modeling enabled PK-pharmacodynamic correlations. Sixteen phase I subjects were evaluable for dose-limiting toxicities. At 800 mg HCQ/d, 3/3 subjects experienced Grade 3 and 4 neutropenia and thrombocytopenia, 1 with sepsis. HCQ 600 mg/d was found to be the MTD in this combination. The phase II cohort (n = 76) had a median survival of 15.6 mos with survival rates at 12, 18, and 24 mo of 70%, 36%, and 25%. PK analysis indicated dose-proportional exposure for HCQ. Significant therapy-associated increases in AV and LC3-II were observed in PBMC and correlated with higher HCQ exposure. These data establish that autophagy inhibition is achievable with HCQ, but dose-limiting toxicity prevented escalation to higher doses of HCQ. At HCQ 600 mg/d, autophagy inhibition was not consistently achieved in patients treated with this regimen, and no significant improvement in overall survival was observed. Therefore, a definitive test of the role of autophagy inhibition in the adjuvant setting for glioma patients awaits the development of lower-toxicity compounds that can achieve more consistent inhibition of autophagy than HCQ. PMID:24991840

  15. A phase I/II trial of hydroxychloroquine in conjunction with radiation therapy and concurrent and adjuvant temozolomide in patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma multiforme.

    PubMed

    Rosenfeld, Myrna R; Ye, Xiaobu; Supko, Jeffrey G; Desideri, Serena; Grossman, Stuart A; Brem, Steven; Mikkelson, Tom; Wang, Daniel; Chang, Yunyoung C; Hu, Janice; McAfee, Quentin; Fisher, Joy; Troxel, Andrea B; Piao, Shengfu; Heitjan, Daniel F; Tan, Kay-See; Pontiggia, Laura; O'Dwyer, Peter J; Davis, Lisa E; Amaravadi, Ravi K

    2014-08-01

    Preclinical studies indicate autophagy inhibition with hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) can augment the efficacy of DNA-damaging therapy. The primary objective of this trial was to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and efficacy of HCQ in combination with radiation therapy (RT) and temozolomide (TMZ) for newly diagnosed glioblastoma (GB). A 3 + 3 phase I trial design followed by a noncomparative phase II study was conducted in GB patients after initial resection. Patients received HCQ (200 to 800 mg oral daily) with RT and concurrent and adjuvant TMZ. Quantitative electron microscopy and immunoblotting were used to assess changes in autophagic vacuoles (AVs) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Population pharmacokinetic (PK) modeling enabled PK-pharmacodynamic correlations. Sixteen phase I subjects were evaluable for dose-limiting toxicities. At 800 mg HCQ/d, 3/3 subjects experienced Grade 3 and 4 neutropenia and thrombocytopenia, 1 with sepsis. HCQ 600 mg/d was found to be the MTD in this combination. The phase II cohort (n = 76) had a median survival of 15.6 mos with survival rates at 12, 18, and 24 mo of 70%, 36%, and 25%. PK analysis indicated dose-proportional exposure for HCQ. Significant therapy-associated increases in AV and LC3-II were observed in PBMC and correlated with higher HCQ exposure. These data establish that autophagy inhibition is achievable with HCQ, but dose-limiting toxicity prevented escalation to higher doses of HCQ. At HCQ 600 mg/d, autophagy inhibition was not consistently achieved in patients treated with this regimen, and no significant improvement in overall survival was observed. Therefore, a definitive test of the role of autophagy inhibition in the adjuvant setting for glioma patients awaits the development of lower-toxicity compounds that can achieve more consistent inhibition of autophagy than HCQ.

  16. Maximum tolerated dose evaluation of the AMPA modulator Org 26576 in healthy volunteers and depressed patients: a summary and method analysis of bridging research in support of phase II dose selection.

    PubMed

    Nations, Kari R; Bursi, Roberta; Dogterom, Peter; Ereshefsky, Larry; Gertsik, Lev; Mant, Tim; Schipper, Jacques

    2012-09-01

    A key challenge to dose selection in early central nervous system (CNS) clinical drug development is that patient tolerability profiles often differ from those of healthy volunteers (HVs), yet HVs are the modal population for determining doses to be investigated in phase II trials. Without clear tolerability data from the target patient population, first efficacy trials may include doses that are either too high or too low, creating undue risk for study participants and the development program overall. Bridging trials address this challenge by carefully investigating safety and tolerability in the target population prior to full-scale proof-of-concept trials. Org 26576 is an alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-propionic acid (AMPA) receptor positive allosteric modulator that acts by modulating ionotropic AMPA-type glutamate receptors to enhance glutamatergic neurotransmission. In preparation for phase II efficacy trials in major depressive disorder (MDD), two separate phase I trials were conducted to evaluate safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics in HVs and in the target patient population. Both trials were randomized and placebo controlled, and included multiple rising-dose cohorts (HV range 100-400 mg bid; MDD range 100-600 mg bid). HVs (n = 36) and patients with MDD (n = 54) were dosed under similarly controlled conditions in an inpatient facility, HVs for up to 14 days and MDD patients for up to 28 days. Safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics were assessed frequently. Despite comparable pharmacokinetic profiles, the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) in depressed patients was 450 mg bid, twice the MTD established in HVs. No clinically relevant safety issues associated with Org 26576 were noted. This article presents safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetic data from two different populations examined under similar dosing conditions. The important implications of such bridging work in phase II dose selection are discussed, as are study design and data interpretation challenges.

  17. Frequency stability of on-orbit GPS Block-I and Block-II Navstar clocks

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    McCaskill, Thomas B.; Reid, Wilson G.; Buisson, James A.

    On-orbit analysis of the Global Positioning System (GPS) Block-I and Block-II Navstar clocks has been performed by the Naval Research Laboratory using a multi-year database. The Navstar clock phase-offset measurements were computed from pseudorange measurements made by the five GPS monitor sites and from the U.S. Naval Observatory precise-time site using single or dual frequency GPS receivers. Orbital data was obtained from the Navstar broadcast ephemeris and from the best-fit, postprocessed orbital ephemerides supplied by the Naval Surface Weapons Center or by the Defense Mapping Agency. Clock performance in the time domain is characterized using frequency-stability profiles with sample times that vary from 1 to 100 days. Composite plots of Navstar frequency stability and time-prediction uncertainty are included as a summary of clock analysis results. The analysis includes plots of the clock phase offset and frequency offset histories with the eclipse seasons superimposed on selected plots to demonstrate the temperature sensitivity of one of the Block-I Navstar rubidium clocks. The potential impact on navigation and on transferring precise time of the degradation in the long-term frequency stability of the rubidium clocks is discussed.

  18. Prostate Cancer Clinical Trials Group: The University of Michigan Site

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2012-04-01

    and fusion-negative strata. UM will be the lead site for this trial with the Univ. of Chicago N01 Phase II consortium as the coordinating center. Ten...sensitive prostate cancer: a University of Chicago Phase II Consortium/Department of Defense Prostate Cancer Clinical Trials Consortium study. JE Ward, T...N01 contract with CTEP (University of Chicago – Early Therapeutics Development with Phase II emphasis group). The Program is committed to creating

  19. The effect of high-, moderate-, and low-fat diets on weight loss and cardiovascular disease risk factors.

    PubMed

    Fleming, Richard M

    2002-01-01

    Over 60% of Americans are overweight and a number of popular diets have been advocated, often without evidence, to alleviate this public health hazard. This study was designed to investigate the effects of several diets on weight loss, serum lipids, and other cardiovascular disease risk factors. One hundred men and women followed one of four dietary programs for 1 year: a moderate-fat (MF) program without calorie restriction (28 patients); a low-fat (LF) diet (phase I) (16) ; a MF, calorie-controlled (phase II) diet (38 patients); and a high-fat (HF) diet (18 subjects) [corrected]. Weight, total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), triglycerides (TG), homocysteine (Ho), and lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)], were measured every 4th month. The TC/HDL-C ratio was calculated and fibrinogen levels were measured at baseline and after one year. The MF diet resulted in a 2.6% (NS) decrease in weight compared with 18.4% (p=0.045) decrease in patients on phase I, 12.6% (p=0.0085) decrease in patients on phase II, and 13.7% (p=0.025) decrease in those on the HF diet. TC was reduced by 5% (NS) in the MF group, 39.1% (p=0.0005) in the phase I group, and 30.4% (p=0.0001) in the phase II group. HF group had a 4.3% (NS) increase in TC. LDL-C was reduced by 6.1% (NS) on MF, 52.0% (p=0.0001) on phase I, and 38.8% (p=0.0001) on phase II. Patients on HF had a 6.0% (NS) increase in LDL-C. There were nonsignificant reductions in HDL-C in those on MF (-1.5%) and HF (-5.8%). Patients on phase I showed an increase in HDL-C of 9.0% (NS), while those on phase II diet had a 3.6% increase (NS) in HDL-C. TC/HDL-C increased (9.8%) only in patients following the high-fat diets (NS). Patients on MF had a 5.3% (NS) reduction in TC/HDL-C, while those on LF had significant reductions on the phase I ( -45.8%; p=0.0001) diet and phase II diet (-34.7%; p=0.0001). TG levels increased on both the MF (1.0%) and HF (5.5%) diets, although neither was statistically significant. People following the phase I and II diets showed reductions of 37.3% and 36.9%, respectively. Ho levels increased by 9.7% when people followed the MF diet and by 12.4% when they followed the HF diet. Patients following the phase I and phase II diets showed reductions of 13.6% and 14.6%, respectively. Only those following phase II diets showed a tendency toward significant improvement (p=0.061). Lp(a) levels increased by 4.7% following the MF (NS) diet and by 31.0% (NS) on the HF diet. Patients following phase I showed a 7.4% (NS) reduction and a 10.8% reduction (NS) following phase II. Fibrinogen levels increased only in individuals following HF diets (11.9%), while patients following MF (-0.6%), phase I (-11.0%), and phase II (-6.3%) diets showed nonsignificant reductions in fibrinogen. Patients on MF demonstrated nonsignificant reductions in weight, LDL-C, TC, HDL-C, TC/HDL-C ratios, and fibrinogen and nonsignificant increases in TGs, Lp(a), and homocysteine. There was significant weight loss in patients on phase I and II and HF diets after 1 year. Reductions in TC, LDL-C, TGs, and TC/HDL ratios were significant only in patients either following a LF diet or a MF, calorically reduced diet. Only patients following HF diets showed a worsening of each cardiovascular disease risk factor (LDL-C, TG, TC, HDL-C, TC/HDL ratio, Ho, Lp(a), and fibrinogen), despite achieving statistically significant weight loss. Copyright 2002 CHF, Inc.

  20. Research safety vehicle, Phase II. Volume I. Executive summary. Final report jul 75-dec 76

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Struble, D.

    1976-12-01

    Volume I summarizes the results of the Minicars Research Safety Vehicle Phase II program, as detailed in Volumes II and III. Phase I identified trends leading to the desired national social goals of the mid-1980's in vehicle crashworthiness, crash avoidance, damageability, pedestrian safety, fuel economy, emissions and cost, and characterized an RSV to satisfy them. In Phase II an RSV prototype was designed, developed and tested to demonstrate the feasibility of meeting these goals simultaneously. Although further refinement is necessary to assure operational validity, in all categories the results meet or exceed the most advanced performance specified by The Presidentialmore » Task Force on Motor Vehicle Goals beyond 1980.« less

  1. UV Spectra of Tris(2,2'-bipyridine)-M(II) Complex Ions in Vacuo (M = Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn).

    PubMed

    Xu, Shuang; Smith, James E T; Weber, J Mathias

    2016-11-21

    We present electronic spectra in the π-π* region of a series of tris(bpy)-M(II) complex ions (bpy = 2,2'-bipyridine; M = Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn) in vacuo for the first time. By applying photodissociation spectroscopy to cryogenically cooled and mass selected [M II (bpy) 3 ] 2+ ions, we obtain the intrinsic spectra of these ions at low temperature without perturbation by solvent interaction or crystal lattice shifts. This allows spectroscopic analysis of these complex ions in greater detail than possible in the condensed phase. We interpret our experimental data by comparison with time-dependent density functional theory.

  2. A putative carbohydrate-binding domain of the lactose-binding Cytisus sessilifolius anti-H(O) lectin has a similar amino acid sequence to that of the L-fucose-binding Ulex europaeus anti-H(O) lectin.

    PubMed

    Konami, Y; Yamamoto, K; Osawa, T; Irimura, T

    1995-04-01

    The complete amino acid sequence of a lactose-binding Cytisus sessilifolius anti-H(O) lectin II (CSA-II) was determined using a protein sequencer. After digestion of CSA-II with endoproteinase Lys-C or Asp-N, the resulting peptides were purified by reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and then subjected to sequence analysis. Comparison of the complete amino acid sequence of CSA-II with the sequences of other leguminous seed lectins revealed regions of extensive homology. The amino acid sequence of a putative carbohydrate-binding domain of CSA-II was found to be similar to those of several anti-H(O) leguminous lectins, especially to that of the L-fucose-binding Ulex europaeus lectin I (UEA-I).

  3. Determination of Serotonin and Dopamine Metabolites in Human Brain Microdialysis and Cerebrospinal Fluid Samples by UPLC-MS/MS: Discovery of Intact Glucuronide and Sulfate Conjugates

    PubMed Central

    Suominen, Tina; Uutela, Päivi; Ketola, Raimo A.; Bergquist, Jonas; Hillered, Lars; Finel, Moshe; Zhang, Hongbo; Laakso, Aki; Kostiainen, Risto

    2013-01-01

    An UPLC-MS/MS method was developed for the determination of serotonin (5-HT), dopamine (DA), their phase I metabolites 5-HIAA, DOPAC and HVA, and their sulfate and glucuronide conjugates in human brain microdialysis samples obtained from two patients with acute brain injuries, ventricular cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples obtained from four patients with obstructive hydrocephalus, and a lumbar CSF sample pooled mainly from patients undergoing spinal anesthesia in preparation for orthopedic surgery. The method was validated by determining the limits of detection and quantification, linearity, repeatability and specificity. The direct method enabled the analysis of the intact phase II metabolites of 5-HT and DA, without hydrolysis of the conjugates. The method also enabled the analysis of the regioisomers of the conjugates, and several intact glucuronide and sulfate conjugates were identified and quantified for the first time in the human brain microdialysis and CSF samples. We were able to show the presence of 5-HIAA sulfate, and that dopamine-3-O-sulfate predominates over dopamine-4-O-sulfate in the human brain. The quantitative results suggest that sulfonation is a more important phase II metabolism pathway than glucuronidation in the human brain. PMID:23826355

  4. FE Line Diagnostics of Multiply Shocked Stellar Atmospheres: The Mira S. Carinae

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bookbinder, Jay

    1997-01-01

    Extensive LWP-HI spectra were obtained of the Mira S Car at a rapid time cadence as compared with the shock cycle time of S Car. These spectra were obtained in an attempt to understand the velocity structures in the shocked wind using the fluoresced iron lines. Data analysis of the IUE observations, which included the primary calibration of all of the IUE spectra obtained of S Car, was carried out. In addition, line identifications, flux calculations, background subtractions, and line profile analysis as a function of S Car's pulsational phase were performed. The database incorporated all line identifications as a function of pulsation phase for all IUE LWP-HI observations to date of S Car. At least 45 separate iron line features are identified in the S Car spectrum at one or more phases of the shock cycle, including those due to Fe II (UV 161) which is pumped by three different iron lines; Fe I(UV 44) which is pumped by the Mg II k line. Other strong multiplets that have been identified include UV(1), UV(2), UV(5), UV(32), UV(60), UV(63), UV(161), UV(207), and UV(399). Over 300 weaker lines have also been tentatively identified with Fe line transitions.

  5. North Atlantic Coast Comprehensive Study Phase I: Statistical Analysis of Historical Extreme Water Levels with Sea Level Change

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2014-09-01

    14-7 ii Abstract The U.S. North Atlantic coast is subject to coastal flooding as a result of both severe extratropical storms (e.g., Nor’easters...Products and Services, excluding any kind of high-resolution hydrodynamic modeling. Tropical and extratropical storms were treated as a single...joint probability analysis and high-fidelity modeling of tropical and extratropical storms

  6. Evaluation of Shipbuilding CAD/CAM/CIM Systems - Phase II (Requirements for Future Systems)

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1997-02-01

    INNOVATION MARINE INDUSTRY STANDARDS WELDING INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING EDUCATION AND TRAINING THE NATIONAL SHIPBUILDING RESEARCH PROGRAM February 1997 NSRP 0479...an analysis of CAD/CAM/CIM in shipyards, ship-design software firms, and alIied industries in Europe, Japan and the U.S. The purpose of the analysis...possible: Black and Veatch Hitachi Ariake Works Industrial Technology Institute Intergraph Corporation Kockums Computer Systems Mitsubishi Heavy Industries

  7. Domain structure in biphenyl incommensurate phase II observed by electron paramagnetic resonance

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Véron, A.; Emery, J.; Spiesser, M.

    1994-11-01

    The domain structure in incommensurate phase II of single biphenyl crystal has been observed by investigations of the optically excited states of the Electronic Paramagnetic Resonance (E.P.R.) deuterated naphthalene molecular probes which substitute biphenyl molecules. Our results confirm that this phase is a 1q bi-domain one. The analysis of the spectra obtained in X band (9.5 GHz) experiments, in relation with the spin Hamiltonian parameter properties permits us to show that the E.P.R. probe rotates around a direction perpendicular to its long axis while the biphenyl molecule undergoes a twist movement around this axis. They also account for a regime which is like a “ multi-soliton " regime while the modulation is a plane wave one in the pure single crystal. The two molecules of the high temperature cell do not exactly experience the saure displacement field in the incommensurate phase and consequently the two domains can be distinguished. The spin Hamiltonian parameters which characterize the E.P.R. probes have been determined in the incommensurate phase II of biphenyl. La structure en domaines de la phase II du biphényle est mise en évidence par les investigations dans les états photo-excités des molécules de naphtalène deutéré, utilisées comme sondes de Résonance Paramagnétique Electronique, se substituant de manière diluée dans le mono-cristal de biphényle. Ceci confirme que cette phase est 1q bi-domaine. L'analyse des spectres obtenus dans des expériences en bande X (9.5 GHz) en relation avec les propriétés de l'hamiltonien de spin permet de montrer que la sonde moléculaire tourne autour d'une direction perpendiculaire à son grand axe alors que la molécule de biphényle subit un mouvement de twist autour de cet axe. Les résultats montrent que ces sondes rendent compte d'un régime qui est comme un régime “ multi-solitons " alors que la modulation est plane dans le cristal pur. Les deux molécules sondes de la cellule élémentaire haute température ne subissent pas les mêmes champs de déplacements dans la phase incommensurable et en conséquence les deux domaines peuvent être distingués. Les paramètres de l'hamiltonien de spin qui caractérisent les sondes R.P.E. ont été déterminés dans la phase II du biphényle.

  8. ELEMENTAL DEPLETIONS IN THE MAGELLANIC CLOUDS AND THE EVOLUTION OF DEPLETIONS WITH METALLICITY

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Tchernyshyov, Kirill; Meixner, Margaret; Seale, Jonathan

    2015-10-01

    We present a study of the composition of gas and dust in the Large and Small Magellanic Clouds (LMC and SMC) using UV absorption spectroscopy. We measure P ii and Fe ii along 84 spatially distributed sightlines toward the MCs using archival Far Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Explorer observations. For 16 of those sightlines, we also measure Si ii, Cr ii, and Zn ii from new Hubble Space Telescope Cosmic Origins Spectrograph observations. We analyze these spectra using a new spectral line analysis technique based on a semi-parametric Voigt profile model. We have combined these measurements with H i and H{sub 2}more » column densities and reference stellar abundances from the literature to derive gas-phase abundances, depletions, and gas-to-dust ratios (GDRs). Of our 84 P and 16 Zn measurements, 80 and 13, respectively, are depleted by more than 0.1 dex, suggesting that P and Zn abundances are not accurate metallicity indicators at and above the metallicity of the SMC. Si, Cr, and Fe are systematically less depleted in the SMC than in the Milky Way (MW) or LMC. The minimum Si depletion in the SMC is consistent with zero. We find GDR ranges of 190–565 in the LMC and 480–2100 in the SMC, which is broadly consistent with GDRs from the literature. These ranges represent actual location to location variation and are evidence of dust destruction and/or growth in the diffuse neutral phase of the interstellar medium. Where they overlap in metallicity, the gas-phase abundances of the MW, LMC, and SMC and damped Lyα systems evolve similarly with metallicity.« less

  9. U10 : Trusted Truck(R) II (phase B).

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2009-01-01

    Phase B of the Trusted Truck II project built on the system developed in Phase A (or Year 1). For the implementation portion of the project, systems were added to the trailer to provide additional diagnostic trailer data that can be sent to the TTM...

  10. SCREEN: A simple layperson administered screening algorithm in low resource international settings significantly reduces waiting time for critically ill children in primary healthcare clinics.

    PubMed

    Hansoti, Bhakti; Jenson, Alexander; Kironji, Antony G; Katz, Joanne; Levin, Scott; Rothman, Richard; Kelen, Gabor D; Wallis, Lee A

    2017-01-01

    In low resource settings, an inadequate number of trained healthcare workers and high volumes of children presenting to Primary Healthcare Centers (PHC) result in prolonged waiting times and significant delays in identifying and evaluating critically ill children. The Sick Children Require Emergency Evaluation Now (SCREEN) program, a simple six-question screening algorithm administered by lay healthcare workers, was developed in 2014 to rapidly identify critically ill children and to expedite their care at the point of entry into a clinic. We sought to determine the impact of SCREEN on waiting times for critically ill children post real world implementation in Cape Town, South Africa. This is a prospective, observational implementation-effectiveness hybrid study that sought to determine: (1) the impact of SCREEN implementation on waiting times as a primary outcome measure, and (2) the effectiveness of the SCREEN tool in accurately identifying critically ill children when utilised by the QM and adherence by the QM to the SCREEN algorithm as secondary outcome measures. The study was conducted in two phases, Phase I control (pre-SCREEN implementation- three months in 2014) and Phase II (post-SCREEN implementation-two distinct three month periods in 2016). In Phase I, 1600 (92.38%) of 1732 children presenting to 4 clinics, had sufficient data for analysis and comprised the control sample. In Phase II, all 3383 of the children presenting to the 26 clinics during the sampling time frame had sufficient data for analysis. The proportion of critically ill children who saw a professional nurse within 10 minutes increased tenfold from 6.4% to 64% (Phase I to Phase II) with the median time to seeing a professional nurse reduced from 100.3 minutes to 4.9 minutes, (p < .001, respectively). Overall layperson screening compared to Integrated Management of Childhood Illnesses (IMCI) designation by a nurse had a sensitivity of 94.2% and a specificity of 88.1%, despite large variance in adherence to the SCREEN algorithm across clinics. The SCREEN program when implemented in a real-world setting can significantly reduce waiting times for critically ill children in PHCs, however further work is required to improve the implementation of this innovative program.

  11. Molecular motions in glassy crystal cyanoadamantane : a proton spin-lattice relaxation study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Amoureux, J. P.; Decressain, R.; Sahour, M.; Cochon, E.

    1992-02-01

    Cyanoadamantane C{10}H{15}CN exhibits four different solid phases : two cubic plastic (I and I'), one cubic glassy (Ig) and one monoclinic ordered (II). In cubic plastic phases (I, I') three types of motion coexist : a uniaxial rotation of the molecule around its C—CequivN axis, a tumbling reorientation of this dipolar axis between the <~ngle 001rangle directions and a vacancy self-diffusion. In the cubic glassy state (Ig) the tumbling motion is frozen and therefore only the uniaxial rotation survives. In the ordered phase (II), the molecules only perform a 3-fold uniaxial rotation among identical positions. These different molecular motions in the four solid phases have been studied by the analysis of the T_{1 z} and T_{1 ρ} spin-lattice relaxation times in ^1H-NMR. The derived residence time are compared, when possible, to values previously deduced from quasi-elastic neutron scattering, dielectric relaxation and second moment of the ^1H-NMR lineshape. Le cyanoadamantane C{10}H{15}CN possède quatre phases solides différentes : deux plastiques cubiques (I et I'), une vitreuse cubique (Ig) et une ordonnée monoclinique (II). Dans les phases plastiques cubiques (I, I') trois types de mouvements coexistent : une rotation uniaxiale de la molécule autour de son axe C—CequivN, un basculement de cet axe dipolaire entre les directions <~ngle 001rangle et une diffusion moléculaire. Dans l'état vitreux cubique (Ig), le mouvement de basculement est gelé et seule la rotation uniaxiale subsiste. Enfin dans la phase ordonnée (II), les molécules effectuent une rotation uniaxiale d'ordre 3 entre positions indiscernables. Ces différents mouvements dans les quatre phases solides ont été évalués par l'analyse des temps de relaxation spin-réseau T_{1 z} et T_{1 ρ} en ^1H-RMN. Les temps de résidence qui en sont déduits sont comparés (lorsque cela est possible) aux valeurs correspondantes déduites précédemment par diffusion quasi-élastique des neutrons, par relaxation diélectrique et par mesure du second moment de la raie RMN.

  12. [Regression analysis of the characteristics and outcome of colorectal cancer 1995 - 2007].

    PubMed

    Chen, Chuang-qi; Fang, Le-kun; Ma, Jin-ping; Cai, Shi-rong; Dong, Wen-guang; Huang, Yi-hua; He, Yu-long; Zhan, Wen-hua

    2010-07-13

    To explore the clinical characteristics and the prognostic factors of patients with colorectal cancer. The data of 2042 cases of colorectal cancer, pathologically confirmed at our hospital from January 1995 to December 2007, were summarized and analyzed. The median age of all cases with colorectal cancer was 59 years old. The high-risk age ranged from 50 to 70 years old. The ratio of male and female was 1.4:1. The lesions located in rectum accounted for 46.2% and those for 22.0% in sigmoid. Patients under age 40 had a higher percentage of poor differentiation (33.5%) and mucinous carcinoma (16.7%). The cases with confirmed stage I, II, III and IV were 5.8%, 42.9%, 31.0% and 20.3% respectively. For all cases, the 1-, 3-, 5- and 10-year survival rates were 92.3%, 73.9%, 65.1% and 57.5% respectively. The independent risk factors for patient prognosis were age, gross type, differentiation, TNM staging and surgical type. Adjuvant chemotherapy was a protective factor. As compared with phase I (1995 - 2001), phase II (2002 - 2007) had a higher proportions of employing stapler, Dixon operation and adjuvant chemotherapy. The 1-, 3- and 5-year survival rates of phase II were higher than phase I (93.4%, 78.0% and 73.2% vs 90.6%, 69.2% and 58.8%). The prognostic factors of patients with colorectal cancer are age, gross type, differentiation, TNM staging, surgical type and adjuvant chemotherapy.

  13. Observation of an Opposition Surge on Triton

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Herbert, B. D.; Buratti, B. J.; Schmidt, B.; Bauer, J. M.; Hicks, M. D.

    2004-11-01

    Ground-based observations of Neptune's moon Triton taken during the summers of 2000, 2003, and 2004 show a rotational light curve with a large amplitude. This is in stark contrast to data from the 1989 Voyager II flyby, which implies significant changes have occurred on Triton's surface since that time. The light curve has two notable regions, one that is significantly brighter than was observed in 1989 and one that is significantly darker. Data were also taken at a broad range of solar phase angles, allowing for a comprehensive study of the effects of phase on Triton's brightness. Analysis of the phase curve yields a solar phase coefficient close to zero for phases greater than 0.08 degrees, a number in close agreement with past studies that focused on higher phase angles. We also report a previously unrecognized opposition surge. Preliminary analysis suggests that the surge has different characteristics in the dark and bright regions currently visible on Triton, implying a non-homogenous regolith. Funding for this project was provided in part by the New York Space Grant Consortium and the NASA Undergraduate Student Research Program.

  14. Determination of metal ions in tea samples using task-specific ionic liquid-based ultrasound-assisted dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction coupled to liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection.

    PubMed

    Werner, Justyna

    2016-04-01

    Task-specific ionic liquid-based ultrasound-assisted dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction was used for the preconcentration of cadmium(II), cobalt(II), and lead(II) ions in tea samples, which were subsequently analyzed by liquid chromatography with UV detection. The proposed method of preconcentration is free of volatile organic compounds, which are often used as extractants and dispersing solvents in classic techniques of microextraction. A task-specific ionic liquid trioctylmethylammonium thiosalicylate was used as an extractant and a chelating agent. Ultrasound was used to disperse the ionic liquid. After microextraction, the phases were separated by centrifugation, and the ionic liquid phase was solubilized in methanol and directly injected into the liquid chromatograph. Selected microextraction parameters, such as the volume of ionic liquid, the pH of the sample, the duration of ultrasound treatment, the speed and time of centrifugation, and the effect of ionic strength, were optimized. Under optimal conditions an enrichment factor of 200 was obtained for each analyte. The limits of detection were 0.002 mg/kg for Cd(II), 0.009 mg/kg for Co(II), and 0.013 mg/kg for Pb(II). The accuracy of the proposed method was evaluated by an analysis of the Certified Reference Materials (INCT-TL-1, INCT-MPH-2) with the recovery values in the range of 90-104%. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  15. A Web-Based Intervention to Reduce Distress After Prostate Cancer Treatment: Development and Feasibility of the Getting Down to Coping Program in Two Different Clinical Settings.

    PubMed

    Cockle-Hearne, Jane; Barnett, Deborah; Hicks, James; Simpson, Mhairi; White, Isabel; Faithfull, Sara

    2018-04-30

    Distress after prostate cancer treatment is a substantial burden for up to one-third of men diagnosed. Physical and emotional symptoms and health service use can intensify, yet men are reticent to accept support. To provide accessible support that can be cost effectively integrated into care pathways, we developed a unique, Web-based, self-guided, cognitive-behavior program incorporating filmed and interactive peer support. To assess feasibility of the intervention among men experiencing distress after prostate cancer treatment. Demand, acceptability, change in distress and self-efficacy, and challenges for implementation in clinical practice were measured. A pre-post, within-participant comparison, mixed-methods research design was followed. Phase I and II were conducted in primary care psychological service and secondary care cancer service, respectively. Men received clinician-generated postal invitations: phase I, 432 men diagnosed <5 years; phase II, 606 men diagnosed <3.5 years. Consent was Web-based. Men with mild and moderate distress were enrolled. Web-based assessment included demographic, disease, treatment characteristics; distress (General Health Questionnaire-28); depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9); anxiety (General Anxiety Disorder Scale-7); self-efficacy (Self-Efficacy for Symptom Control Inventory); satisfaction (author-generated, Likert-type questionnaire). Uptake and adherence were assessed with reference to the persuasive systems design model. Telephone interviews explored participant experience (phase II, n=10); interviews with health care professionals (n=3) explored implementation issues. A total of 135 men consented (phase I, 61/432, 14.1%; phase II, 74/606, 12.2%); from 96 eligible men screened for distress, 32% (30/96) entered the intervention (phase I, n=10; phase II, n=20). Twenty-four completed the Web-based program and assessments (phase I, n=8; phase II, n=16). Adherence for phase I and II was module completion rate 63% (mean 2.5, SD 1.9) versus 92% (mean 3.7, SD 1.0); rate of completing cognitive behavior therapy exercises 77% (mean 16.1, SD 6.2) versus 88% (mean 18.6, SD 3.9). Chat room activity occurred among 63% (5/8) and 75% (12/16) of men, respectively. In phase I, 75% (6/8) of men viewed all the films; in phase II, the total number of unique views weekly was 16, 11, 11, and 10, respectively. The phase II mood diary was completed by 100% (16/16) of men. Satisfaction was high for the program and films. Limited efficacy testing indicated improvement in distress baseline to post intervention: phase I, P=.03, r=-.55; phase II, P=.001, r=-.59. Self-efficacy improved for coping P=.02, r=-.41. Service assessment confirmed ease of assimilation into clinical practice and clarified health care practitioner roles. The Web-based program is acceptable and innovative in clinical practice. It was endorsed by patients and has potential to positively impact the experience of men with distress after prostate cancer treatment. It can potentially be delivered in a stepped model of psychological support in primary or secondary care. Feasibility evidence is compelling, supporting further evaluative research to determine clinical and cost effectiveness. ©Jane Cockle-Hearne, Deborah Barnett, James Hicks, Mhairi Simpson, Isabel White, Sara Faithfull. Originally published in JMIR Cancer (http://cancer.jmir.org), 30.04.2018.

  16. A Web-Based Intervention to Reduce Distress After Prostate Cancer Treatment: Development and Feasibility of the Getting Down to Coping Program in Two Different Clinical Settings

    PubMed Central

    Barnett, Deborah; Hicks, James; Simpson, Mhairi; White, Isabel; Faithfull, Sara

    2018-01-01

    Background Distress after prostate cancer treatment is a substantial burden for up to one-third of men diagnosed. Physical and emotional symptoms and health service use can intensify, yet men are reticent to accept support. To provide accessible support that can be cost effectively integrated into care pathways, we developed a unique, Web-based, self-guided, cognitive-behavior program incorporating filmed and interactive peer support. Objective To assess feasibility of the intervention among men experiencing distress after prostate cancer treatment. Demand, acceptability, change in distress and self-efficacy, and challenges for implementation in clinical practice were measured. Methods A pre-post, within-participant comparison, mixed-methods research design was followed. Phase I and II were conducted in primary care psychological service and secondary care cancer service, respectively. Men received clinician-generated postal invitations: phase I, 432 men diagnosed <5 years; phase II, 606 men diagnosed <3.5 years. Consent was Web-based. Men with mild and moderate distress were enrolled. Web-based assessment included demographic, disease, treatment characteristics; distress (General Health Questionnaire-28); depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9); anxiety (General Anxiety Disorder Scale-7); self-efficacy (Self-Efficacy for Symptom Control Inventory); satisfaction (author-generated, Likert-type questionnaire). Uptake and adherence were assessed with reference to the persuasive systems design model. Telephone interviews explored participant experience (phase II, n=10); interviews with health care professionals (n=3) explored implementation issues. Results A total of 135 men consented (phase I, 61/432, 14.1%; phase II, 74/606, 12.2%); from 96 eligible men screened for distress, 32% (30/96) entered the intervention (phase I, n=10; phase II, n=20). Twenty-four completed the Web-based program and assessments (phase I, n=8; phase II, n=16). Adherence for phase I and II was module completion rate 63% (mean 2.5, SD 1.9) versus 92% (mean 3.7, SD 1.0); rate of completing cognitive behavior therapy exercises 77% (mean 16.1, SD 6.2) versus 88% (mean 18.6, SD 3.9). Chat room activity occurred among 63% (5/8) and 75% (12/16) of men, respectively. In phase I, 75% (6/8) of men viewed all the films; in phase II, the total number of unique views weekly was 16, 11, 11, and 10, respectively. The phase II mood diary was completed by 100% (16/16) of men. Satisfaction was high for the program and films. Limited efficacy testing indicated improvement in distress baseline to post intervention: phase I, P=.03, r=−.55; phase II, P=.001, r=−.59. Self-efficacy improved for coping P=.02, r=−.41. Service assessment confirmed ease of assimilation into clinical practice and clarified health care practitioner roles. Conclusions The Web-based program is acceptable and innovative in clinical practice. It was endorsed by patients and has potential to positively impact the experience of men with distress after prostate cancer treatment. It can potentially be delivered in a stepped model of psychological support in primary or secondary care. Feasibility evidence is compelling, supporting further evaluative research to determine clinical and cost effectiveness. PMID:29712628

  17. Deep Bore Storage of Nuclear Waste Using MMW (Millimeter Wave) Technology, STTR Fast Track Project, Phase I Final Report-Revised

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Oglesby, Kenneth D.; Woskov, Paul; Einstein, Herbert

    This report covers the technical work in Phase I of this DOE-Nuclear Program STTR Fast Track project. All key tasks were successfully performed, new tasks were added to utilize DOD-AFRL’s 95 GigaHertz (GHz) gyrotron in Phase II, while other lesser tasks were left for Phase II efforts or were requested to be made optional. This research adds to our understanding of using MMW power to melt and vaporize rocks and steel/ metals and laid plans for future testing in Phase II. This work built upon a prior DOE project DE-EE0005504 that developed the basic waveguide setup, process and instruments. Inmore » this project we were investigating the use of MMW to form rock melt and steel plugs in deep wells to further isolate highly radioactive nuclear waste in ultra-deep basement rocks for long term storage. This technology also has potential for deep well drilling for nuclear storage, geothermal and oil and gas industries. It also has the potential for simultaneously sealing and securing the wellbore with a thick rock melt liner as the wellbore is drilled. This allows for higher levels of safety and protection of the environment during deep drilling operations. The larger purpose of this project was to find answers to key questions in progressing MMW technology for these applications. Phase I of this project continued bench testing using the MIT 10 kilo-Watt (kW), 28 GHz frequency laboratory gyrotron, literature searches, planning and design of equipment for Phase II efforts. Furnace melting and rock testing (Tasks 4 and 5) were deferred to Phase II due to lack of concurrent availability of the furnace and personnel at MIT. That delay and lower temperature furnace (limited to 1650oC) caused rethinking of Task 4 to utilize coordinated rock selection with the DOD testing in Phase II. The high pressure and high power window design work (moved to Phase I Task 3 from Phase II Task 20) and Additive materials and methods (Tasks 7 & 8) performed in Phase I may become patentable and thus little detail can be provided in this public report. A version of that new high pressure, high MMW power window may be built for possible Phase II testing at the DOD site. Most significantly, additional tasks were added for planning the use of the Department of Defense, Air Force Research Laboratory’s (DOD-AFRL’s) System 0 gyrotron in Phase II. Specifically added and accomplished were multiple discussions on DOD and DOE-MIT-Impact goals, timing between ongoing DOD testing, outlining the required equipment and instruments for rock testing, and terms for an agreement. That addition required a visit to Kirtland AFB in Albuquerque, New Mexico to talk to key DOD-AFRL personnel and management. A DOD-Impact-MIT charter (i.e., contract) is now being circulated for signatures. Also added task to Phase I, MIT designed the critical path reflected power isolator screen for Phase II testing. To ensure compatibility, that design was computer simulated for the expected heat load distribution and the resulting temperature increase. Advancing the MMW testing up to the optimum 95 GHz and 100kW (5X higher) power levels was stated in the original proposal to be a key required development step for this technology to achieve prototype drilling, lining, and rock melting/ vaporization for creating sealing plugs.« less

  18. Sulforaphane-stimulated phase II enzyme induction inhibits cytokine production by airway epithelial cells stimulated with diesel extract.

    PubMed

    Ritz, Stacey A; Wan, Junxiang; Diaz-Sanchez, David

    2007-01-01

    Airborne particulate pollutants, such as diesel exhaust particles, are thought to exacerbate lung and cardiovascular diseases through induction of oxidative stress. Sulforaphane, derived from cruciferous vegetables, is the most potent known inducer of phase II enzymes involved in the detoxification of xenobiotics. We postulated that sulforaphane may be able to ameliorate the adverse effects of pollutants by upregulating expression of endogenous antioxidant enzymes. Stimulation of bronchial epithelial cells with the chemical constituents of diesel particles result in the production of proinflammatory cytokines. We first demonstrated a role for phase II enzymes in regulating diesel effects by transfecting the airway epithelial cell line (BEAS-2B) with the sentinel phase II enzyme NAD(P)H: quinine oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1). IL-8 production in response to diesel extract was significantly reduced in these compared with untransfected cells. We then examined whether sulforaphane would stimulate phase II induction and whether this would thereby ablate the effect of diesel extracts on cytokine production. We verified that sulforaphane significantly augmented expression of the phase II enzyme genes GSTM1 and NQO1 and confirmed that sulforaphane treatment increased glutathione S-transferase activity in epithelial cells without inducing cell death or apoptosis. Sulforaphane pretreatment inhibited IL-8 production by BEAS-2B cells upon stimulation with diesel extract. Similarly, whereas diesel extract stimulated production of IL-8, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, and IL-1beta from primary human bronchial epithelial cells, sulforaphane pretreatment inhibited diesel-induced production of all of these cytokines. Our studies show that sulforaphane can mitigate the effect of diesel in respiratory epithelial cells and demonstrate the chemopreventative potential of phase II enzyme enhancement.

  19. Ferroelectric properties of oxalate and phenanthroline based 1-D single chain molecular magnet [{FeII(Δ)FeII(Λ)}0.5{CrII(Δ)CrII(Λ)}0.5(ox)2(phen)2

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bhatt, Pramod; Mukadam, M. D.; Mandal, B. P.; Yusuf, S. M.

    2018-04-01

    The one-dimensional (1-D) single chain molecular magnet [{FeII(Δ)FeII(Λ)}0.5{CrII(Δ)CrII(Λ)}0.5(ox)2(phen)2] is hydrothermally synthesized using oxalate (ox) and phenanthroline (phen) ligands with transition metal ions (Fe and Cr). The compound is characterized using x-ray diffraction, dc magnetization measurements and P-E ferroelectric loop measurements. The diffraction analysis using Rietveld refinement confirms a single phase formation of the compound in monoclinic structure with space group of P21. The compound crystallizes in 1-D chain like structure containing two different crystallographic sites of metal ions (Δ- and Λ-), which are bridged by the ox ligand and Phen ligand. These two metals site are different in bond length and bond angles results lattice distortions. The lattice distortion induces ferroelectric behavior in the compound which is discussed in terms of lattice distortion induced dipole moments.

  20. Southern Mariana OBS Experiment and Preliminary Results of Passive-Source Investigations

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Le, B. M.; Lin, J.; Yang, T.; Shiyan 3, S. P. O. R.

    2017-12-01

    The Southern Mariana OBS Experiment (SMOE) was one of the first seismic experiments targeting the deepest part of Earth's surface. During the Phase I experiment in December 2016, an array of OBS instruments were deployed across the Challenger Deep that recorded both active-source and passive-source data. During the Phase II experiment in December 2016-June 2017, passive-source data were recorded. We have retrieved earthquake signals and processed the waveforms from the recorded global, regional and local events, respectively, during the Phase I experiment. Most of the waveforms recorded by the OBS array have fairly good quality with discernible main phases. Rayleigh waves from many earthquakes were analyzed using the frequency-time analysis and their group velocities at different periods were obtained. The dispersion curves from different Rayleigh wave propagating paths would be valuable for inverting the structure of the subducting Pacific and overriding Philippine Sea plates. Furthermore, we applied the ambient noise cross-correlation method and retrieved high-quality coherence surface wave waveforms. With its relatively high frequencies, the surface waves can be used to study the crustal structure of the region. Together with the Phase II data, we expect that this seismic experiment will provide unprecedented constraints on the structure and geodynamic processes of the southern Mariana trench.

  1. Installation Restoration Program. Remedial Investigation Report. Minnesota Air National Guard Base Duluth International Airport, Duluth, Minnesota. Volume 5

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1990-01-01

    1-20 1-6 Sites Defined and Ranked During IRP Phase I Study. 1-29 1-7 Aerial Photograph of Site 2, April 1988. 1-32 1-8 Site 2 Sampling Locations...Utilized During Phase II Investigations. 1-35 1-9 Aerial Photograph of Site 3, April 1988. 1-38 1-10 Site 3 Sampling Locations Utilized During Phase II...Investigations. 1-47 1-11 Aerial Photograph of Site 4, April 1988. 1-54 1-12 Site 4 Sampling Locations Utilized During Phase II Investigations. 1-57 1-13

  2. INFLUENCE OF INTRAMUSCULAR FAT LEVEL ON ORGANOLEPTIC, PHYSICAL, AND CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF IRRADIATED PORK MUSCLE

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Whitehair, L.A.

    1962-01-01

    A study was conducted to evaluate the influence of marbling on certain organoleptic, physical, and chemical characteristics of precooked and irradiated pork loin muscle (longissimus dorsi). The study consisted of two separate phases. Loins utilized in Phase I were selected by visual appraisal and categorized into three distinct marbling level scores. A high temperature, short time blanching treatment was used for proteolytic enzyme inactivation. Phase II loins were selected and classified into three marbling levels by both visual appraisal amd ether extraction analysis of total fat. A low temperature, long time heat treatment was used for enzyme inactivation. Samples weremore » packed under vacuum in rigid containers and irradiated at a dosage level of 4.5 megarads gamma radiation. Non-irradiated samples were stored at -65 deg F. Irradiated and control samples were evaluated at periodic intervals by a panel. Physical and chemical analyses were made initially on samples representing each treatment and subsequently at the termination of each storage period. Organoleptic results indicated that degree of marbling did not influence preference ratings of plain radiosterilized longissimus dorsi muscle (pork). However, irradiated longissimus dorsi (pork) sandwich items with lower marbling scores were consistently preferred over highly marbled, irradiated sandwich items. Non-irradiated longissimus dorsi samples were preferred to irradiated longissimus dorsi samples in all tests. The short term-high temperature method of blanching used in Phase I resulted in products of slightly superior quality to those of Phase II, which possessed softer, slightly drier texture characteristics. The practical storage life of irradiated samples under the conditions was approximately 150 days. Hunter color values were increased by radiation treatment. Irradiated longissimus dorsi samples developed a characteristic pink-red color. Mechanical tenderness values in both irradiated and non-irradiated samples were lowered significantly by higher levels of marbling. Expressible moisture values of irradiated samples were lower than those of control samples. The values increased with advancing storage time. Iodine numbers of lower marbling scores (both irradiated and non-irradiated samplcs) exceeded those of highly marbled samples. T.B.A. number values were lower in irradiated samples of Phase I. The values were increased with respect to increased levels of marbling in Phase II. Values increased steadily with advancing storage time in both phases. pH values were elevated by irradiation treatment, marbling level, and storage time in Phase I. The differences were not observed for Phase II samples. Bacteriological assays indicated that irradiated samples were commercially sterile. Extremely low numbers of Micrococci were found. (Dissertation Abstr., 23: No. 4)« less

  3. Exploration of how women make treatment decisions after a breast cancer diagnosis.

    PubMed

    Spittler, Cheryl A; Pallikathayil, Leonie; Bott, Marjorie

    2012-09-01

    To examine the information needs of women after receiving a diagnosis of breast cancer, investigate how decisions about treatment options are made, and assess personal responses to the decisions made. Mixed-methods approach using quantitative and qualitative data. The University of Kansas Medical Center and Quinn Plastic Surgery Center, both in the midwestern United States. 102 breast cancer survivors who had completed all forms of treatment for at least three months and less than five years. Phase I participants completed five questionnaires about informational needs, confidence and satisfaction with the decision, decisional regret, and conflict. In phase II, 15 participants were purposively sampled from the 102 survivors to participate in a focus group session. Data analysis included frequencies and multiple regression for phase I and qualitative content analysis for phase II. Informational needs, confidence and satisfaction with the decision, and decisional regret and conflict. The variables (widowed, confidence and satisfaction with decision, and decisional conflict and regret) significantly (p = 0.01) accounted for 14% of the variance in informational needs. Two themes emerged from the study: (a) feelings, thoughts, and essential factors that impact treatment considerations, and (b) tips for enhancing treatment consideration options. The study's results show that women viewed informational needs as very important in making treatment decisions after being diagnosed with breast cancer. The treatment team should provide the information, with consideration of the patient's personal preferences, that will assist women to make informed, confident, and satisfied decisions about treatment choices.

  4. Summary - National Dissemination and the Five Target States, Part 3, Final Report for Phase II--Dissemination, Rural Shared Services.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Northern Montana Coll., Havre.

    The dissemination phase (Phase II) of the Rural Shared Services Project is reported in this document. Efforts of the dissemination phase were concentrated in 5 target states: Vermont, Georgia, Wyoming, Montana, and New Mexico; national dissemination was limited to attendance at national conferences, the U. S. Office of Education PREP materials for…

  5. Influence of crystal structure on the Co{sup II} diffusion behavior in the Zn{sub 1-x}Co{sub x}O system

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Peiteado, M.; Makovec, D.; Villegas, M.

    2008-09-15

    The solid state interaction of the Zn{sub 1-x}Co{sub x}O nominal system is investigated by means of diffusion couples and analysis of co-precipitated samples. The formation of a homogeneous Co:ZnO solid solution is found to be determined by the crystal structure from which Co{sup II} ions diffuse into the wurtzite lattice. No diffusion is observed whenever the CoO rock-salt structure is formed from the Co{sup II} precursor. On the contrary, the diffusion from the Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} spinel phase is feasible but has a limited temperature range defined by the reduction at a high temperature of Co{sup III}-Co{sup II}, since thismore » process again leads to the formation of the rock-salt structure. However, when using a highly reactive and homogeneous co-precipitated starting powder, neither the spinel phase nor the rock-salt structure is formed, and a Co{sup II}:ZnO solid solution is obtained, which remains stable up to high temperatures. - Graphical abstract: Maximum diffusion distance for the ZnO-CoO{sub x} couple as a function of temperature. Dashed gray lines represent the temperature values at which the transformations between CoO and Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} compounds take place.« less

  6. Site preference of alloying elements in DO22-Ni3V phase: Phase-field and first-principles study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Ding-Ni; Shangguan, Qian-Qian; Liu, Fu; Zhang, Ming-Yi

    2015-07-01

    Site preference of alloying elements in DO22-Ni3V phase was investigated using phase-field and first-principles method. The concentrations of alloying elements on sublattices of DO22-Ni3V phase were quantitatively studied using phase-field model based on microscopic diffusion equations. The phase-field computation results demonstrate that the concentration differences of alloying elements on the NiI and NiII site are attributed to the coordination environment difference. Host atoms Ni and substitutional ternary additions Al prefer to occupy NiI site. Antisite atoms V show site preference on the NiII site. Further reason of site preference of alloying elements on the two different Ni sites were studied using first-principles method to calculate the electronic structure of DO22-Ni3V phase. Calculation of density of states, orbitals population and charge population of the optimized Ni3V structure found that the electronic structures of NiI and NiII sites are different. Electronic structure difference, which is caused by coordination environment difference, is the essential reason for site selectivity behaviors of alloying elements on NiI and NiII sites.

  7. In situ spectroscopic and solution analyses of the reductive dissolution of Mn02 by Fe(II)

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Villinski, John E.; O'Day, Peggy A.; Corley, Timothy L.; Conklin, Martha H.

    2001-01-01

    The reductive dissolution of MnO2 by Fe(II) under conditions simulating acid mine drainage (pH 3, 100 mM SO42-) was investigated by utilizing a flow-through reaction cell and synchrotron X-ray absorption spectroscopy. This configuration allows collection of in situ, real-time X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) spectra and bulk solution samples. Analysis of the solution chemistry suggests that the reaction mechanism changed (decreased reaction rate) as MnO2 was reduced and Fe(III) precipitated, primarily as ferrihydrite. Simultaneously, we observed an additional phase, with the local structure of jacobsite (MnFe2O4), in the Mn XANES spectra of reactants and products. The X-ray absorbance of this intermediate phase increased during the experiment, implying an increase in concentration. The presence of this phase, which probably formed as a surface coating, helps to explain the reduced rate of dissolution of manganese(IV) oxide. In natural environments affected by acid mine drainage, the formation of complex intermediate solid phases on mineral surfaces undergoing reductive dissolution may likewise influence the rate of release of metals to solution.

  8. A Liver-centric Multiscale Modeling Framework for Xenobiotics ...

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    We describe a multi-scale framework for modeling acetaminophen-induced liver toxicity. Acetaminophen is a widely used analgesic. Overdose of acetaminophen can result in liver injury via its biotransformation into toxic product, which further induce massive necrosis. Our study focuses on developing a multi-scale computational model to characterize both phase I and phase II metabolism of acetaminophen, by bridging Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling at the whole body level, cell movement and blood flow at the tissue level and cell signaling and drug metabolism at the sub-cellular level. To validate the model, we estimated our model parameters by fi?tting serum concentrations of acetaminophen and its glucuronide and sulfate metabolites to experiments, and carried out sensitivity analysis on 35 parameters selected from three modules. Our study focuses on developing a multi-scale computational model to characterize both phase I and phase II metabolism of acetaminophen, by bridging Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling at the whole body level, cell movement and blood flow at the tissue level and cell signaling and drug metabolism at the sub-cellular level. This multiscale model bridges the CompuCell3D tool used by the Virtual Tissue project with the httk tool developed by the Rapid Exposure and Dosimetry project.

  9. [Effect of angiotensin II depot administration on bioelectric functional processes of the central nervous system].

    PubMed

    Martin, G; Baumann, H; Grieger, F

    1976-01-01

    Using the average evoked potential technique, angiotensin-II depot effects (1 mg implantate = 3--4 mg/kg body weight angiotensin-II) were studied neuroelectrophysiologically in reticular, hippocampal and neocrotical structures of albino rats. A multivariate variance and discriminance analysis program revealed differentiated changes of the bioelectrical processing data of the CNS. Evidence was obtained for a varying structural sensitivity of central-nervous substructures under depot administration of angiotensin-II. In later phases of angiotensin-II action, the hippocampus was characterized by an electrographic synchronization phenomenon with high-amplitude average evoked potentials. The reticular formation, and to a lesser extent the visual cortex, showed an angiotensin-induced diminution of bioelectrical excitation. However, the intensity of the change in functional CNS patterns did not always correlate with maximal blood pressure rises. The described changes of afference processing to standardized sensory stimuli, especially in hippocampal and reticular structures of the CNS foll owing angiotensin depot action, point to a central-nervous action mechanism of angiotensin-II.

  10. Improving of lipid productivity of the oleaginous microalgae Chlorella pyrenoidosa via atmospheric and room temperature plasma (ARTP).

    PubMed

    Cao, Song; Zhou, Xu; Jin, Wenbiao; Wang, Feng; Tu, Renjie; Han, Songfang; Chen, Hongyi; Chen, Chuan; Xie, Guo-Jun; Ma, Fang

    2017-11-01

    In this study, an efficient screening program was established with ARTP. Five strains from oleaginous microalgae Chlorella pyrenoidosa were screened from mutant library after mutagenizing by ARTP. Among them, the optimal mutant strain was named as II-H6. In the BG11 medium, the OD 680 of II-H6 in stationary phase were increased by 32.08% than the original strain. Meanwhile, compared with the original strain, the dry weight and lipid productivity of II-H6 were increased by 22.07% and 16.85%, respectively. II-H6 showed a good genetic stability in BG11 medium and the optimum growth temperature and pH were 33°C and 9.0. 18S gene fragment length of II-H6 strain were 1886bp. Analysis of the gene fragment showed that the II-H6 strain had a close relationship to the original strain, and it belonged to the mutation within the genus Chlorella. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  11. Multiple origins for the DLA at zabs = 0.313 toward PKS 1127-145 indicated by a complex dust depletion pattern of Ca, Ti, and Mn

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Guber, C. R.; Richter, P.; Wendt, M.

    2018-01-01

    Aims: We aim to investigate the dust depletion properties of optically thick gas in and around galaxies and its origin we study in detail the dust depletion patterns of Ti, Mn, and Ca in the multi-component damped Lymanα (DLA) absorber at zabs = 0.313 toward the quasar PKS 1127-145. Methods: We performed a detailed spectral analysis of the absorption profiles of Ca II, Mn II, Ti II, and Na I associated with the DLA toward PKS 1127-145, based on optical high-resolution data obtained with the UVES instrument at the Very Large Telescope. We obtained column densities and Doppler-parameters for the ions listed above and determine their gas-phase abundances, from which we conclude on their dust depletion properties. We compared the Ca and Ti depletion properties of this DLA with that of other DLAs. Results: One of the six analyzed absorption components (component 3) shows a striking underabundance of Ti and Mn in the gas-phase, indicating the effect of dust depletion for these elements and a locally enhanced dust-to-gas ratio. In this DLA and in other similar absorbers, the Mn II abundance follows that of Ti II very closely, implying that both ions are equally sensitive to the dust depletion effects. Conclusions: Our analysis indicates that the DLA toward PKS 1127-145 has multiple origins. With its narrow line width and its strong dust depletion, component 3 points toward the presence of a neutral gas disk from a faint LSB galaxy in front of PKS 1127-145, while the other, more diffuse and dust-poor, absorption components possibly are related to tidal gas features from the interaction between the various, optically confirmed galaxy-group members. In general, the Mn/Ca II ratio in sub-DLAs and DLAs possibly serves as an important indicator to discriminate between dust-rich and dust-poor in neutral gas in and around galaxies.

  12. Thin-plate spline analysis of craniofacial growth in Class I and Class II subjects.

    PubMed

    Franchi, Lorenzo; Baccetti, Tiziano; Stahl, Franka; McNamara, James A

    2007-07-01

    To compare the craniofacial growth characteristics of untreated subjects with Class II division 1 malocclusion with those of subjects with normal (Class I) occlusion from the prepubertal through the postpubertal stages of development. The Class II division 1 sample consisted of 17 subjects (11 boys and six girls). The Class I sample also consisted of 17 subjects (13 boys and four girls). Three craniofacial regions (cranial base, maxilla, and mandible) were analyzed on the lateral cephalograms of the subjects in both groups by means of thin-plate spline analysis at T1 (prepubertal) and T2 (postpubertal). Both cross-sectional and longitudinal comparisons were performed on both size and shape differences between the two groups. The results showed an increased cranial base angulation as a morphological feature of Class II malocclusion at the prepubertal developmental phase. Maxillary changes in either shape or size were not significant. Subjects with Class II malocclusion exhibited a significant deficiency in the size of the mandible at the completion of active craniofacial growth as compared with Class I subjects. A significant deficiency in the size of the mandible became apparent in Class II subjects during the circumpubertal period and it was still present at the completion of active craniofacial growth.

  13. Unraveling the Decomposition Process of Lead(II) Acetate: Anhydrous Polymorphs, Hydrates, and Byproducts and Room Temperature Phosphorescence.

    PubMed

    Martínez-Casado, Francisco J; Ramos-Riesco, Miguel; Rodríguez-Cheda, José A; Cucinotta, Fabio; Matesanz, Emilio; Miletto, Ivana; Gianotti, Enrica; Marchese, Leonardo; Matěj, Zdeněk

    2016-09-06

    Lead(II) acetate [Pb(Ac)2, where Ac = acetate group (CH3-COO(-))2] is a very common salt with many and varied uses throughout history. However, only lead(II) acetate trihydrate [Pb(Ac)2·3H2O] has been characterized to date. In this paper, two enantiotropic polymorphs of the anhydrous salt, a novel hydrate [lead(II) acetate hemihydrate: Pb(Ac)2·(1)/2H2O], and two decomposition products [corresponding to two different basic lead(II) acetates: Pb4O(Ac)6 and Pb2O(Ac)2] are reported, with their structures being solved for the first time. The compounds present a variety of molecular arrangements, being 2D or 1D coordination polymers. A thorough thermal analysis, by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), was also carried out to study the behavior and thermal data of the salt and its decomposition process, in inert and oxygenated atmospheres, identifying the phases and byproducts that appear. The complex thermal behavior of lead(II) acetate is now solved, finding the existence of another hydrate, two anhydrous enantiotropic polymorphs, and some byproducts. Moreover, some of them are phosphorescent at room temperature. The compounds were studied by TGA, DSC, X-ray diffraction, and UV-vis spectroscopy.

  14. Finite-Size Scaling Analysis of Binary Stochastic Processes and Universality Classes of Information Cascade Phase Transition

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mori, Shintaro; Hisakado, Masato

    2015-05-01

    We propose a finite-size scaling analysis method for binary stochastic processes X(t) in { 0,1} based on the second moment correlation length ξ for the autocorrelation function C(t). The purpose is to clarify the critical properties and provide a new data analysis method for information cascades. As a simple model to represent the different behaviors of subjects in information cascade experiments, we assume that X(t) is a mixture of an independent random variable that takes 1 with probability q and a random variable that depends on the ratio z of the variables taking 1 among recent r variables. We consider two types of the probability f(z) that the latter takes 1: (i) analog [f(z) = z] and (ii) digital [f(z) = θ(z - 1/2)]. We study the universal functions of scaling for ξ and the integrated correlation time τ. For finite r, C(t) decays exponentially as a function of t, and there is only one stable renormalization group (RG) fixed point. In the limit r to ∞ , where X(t) depends on all the previous variables, C(t) in model (i) obeys a power law, and the system becomes scale invariant. In model (ii) with q ≠ 1/2, there are two stable RG fixed points, which correspond to the ordered and disordered phases of the information cascade phase transition with the critical exponents β = 1 and ν|| = 2.

  15. 17 CFR 242.608 - Filing and amendment of national market system plans.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... national market subsystem or facility contemplated by a national market system plan; (ii) Preparing and... date of completion of each phase; (C) An analysis of the impact on competition of implementation of the..., operation, or regulation of a national market system (or a subsystem thereof) or one or more facilities...

  16. 17 CFR 242.608 - Filing and amendment of national market system plans.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... national market subsystem or facility contemplated by a national market system plan; (ii) Preparing and... date of completion of each phase; (C) An analysis of the impact on competition of implementation of the..., operation, or regulation of a national market system (or a subsystem thereof) or one or more facilities...

  17. 17 CFR 242.608 - Filing and amendment of national market system plans.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... national market subsystem or facility contemplated by a national market system plan; (ii) Preparing and... date of completion of each phase; (C) An analysis of the impact on competition of implementation of the..., operation, or regulation of a national market system (or a subsystem thereof) or one or more facilities...

  18. 17 CFR 242.608 - Filing and amendment of national market system plans.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... national market subsystem or facility contemplated by a national market system plan; (ii) Preparing and... date of completion of each phase; (C) An analysis of the impact on competition of implementation of the..., operation, or regulation of a national market system (or a subsystem thereof) or one or more facilities...

  19. 17 CFR 242.608 - Filing and amendment of national market system plans.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... national market subsystem or facility contemplated by a national market system plan; (ii) Preparing and... date of completion of each phase; (C) An analysis of the impact on competition of implementation of the..., operation, or regulation of a national market system (or a subsystem thereof) or one or more facilities...

  20. Occupational Supply and Demand in the State of Washington: Phase II Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Sommers, Paul; Heg, Deena

    Occupational supply and demand in Washington State was examined by comparing projected supplies of skilled workers coming out of the state's community and technical colleges against the projected demand among Washington employers for people qualified to enter particular occupations. The analysis was based on a January 2000 report, information…

  1. An Analysis of the Advantages and Disadvantages of the Air Force Standard Control Panel

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1989-09-01

    comparativ - process. The built-up system required approximately 100 hours to design , install and calibrate. The reader is reminded that the built-up...Summary......................................... 9 Outline of Research Design .................... 9 Ii. Literature Review...133 Question 3 .......................... 133 Area 3: Design Phase ................... 134 Question 4 .......................... 134 Area 4

  2. Tanker Avionics/Aircrew Complement Evaluation (TAACE). Phase 0. Analysis and Mockup. Volume II. Summary of Data.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1980-05-01

    However, the TF-33s would greatly enhance the mission capabilities of the aircraft. The addition of winglets will increase range and decrease fuel...a sound and capable system. There are certainly some improvements that can be made. A better boom with better aerodynamic design would help

  3. Esthetics evaluation

    Treesearch

    Victor A. Rudis; James H. Gramann; Theresa A. Herrick

    1994-01-01

    An analysis of summer visual attributes and an overview of ongoing scenic quality research within selected shortleaf pine-hardwood stands in the Ouachita and Ozark National forests are presented.Within-stand visual attributes were reported prior to even-aged stand-level (Phase II) treatment for twelve 40-acre stands in the north, east, and south regions and for plot-...

  4. Local spectrum analysis of field propagation in an anisotropic medium. Part II. Time-dependent fields.

    PubMed

    Tinkelman, Igor; Melamed, Timor

    2005-06-01

    In Part I of this two-part investigation [J. Opt. Soc. Am. A 22, 1200 (2005)], we presented a theory for phase-space propagation of time-harmonic electromagnetic fields in an anisotropic medium characterized by a generic wave-number profile. In this Part II, these investigations are extended to transient fields, setting a general analytical framework for local analysis and modeling of radiation from time-dependent extended-source distributions. In this formulation the field is expressed as a superposition of pulsed-beam propagators that emanate from all space-time points in the source domain and in all directions. Using time-dependent quadratic-Lorentzian windows, we represent the field by a phase-space spectral distribution in which the propagating elements are pulsed beams, which are formulated by a transient plane-wave spectrum over the extended-source plane. By applying saddle-point asymptotics, we extract the beam phenomenology in the anisotropic environment resulting from short-pulsed processing. Finally, the general results are applied to the special case of uniaxial crystal and compared with a reference solution.

  5. Computer Simulations of Polytetrafluoroethylene in the Solid State

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Holt, D. B.; Farmer, B. L.; Eby, R. K.; Macturk, K. S.

    1996-03-01

    Force field parameters (Set I) for fluoropolymers were previously derived from MOPAC AM1 semiempirical data on model molecules. A second set (Set II) was derived from the AM1 results augmented by ab initio calculations. Both sets yield reasonable helical and phase II packing structures for polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) chains. However, Set I and Set II differ in the strength of van der Waals interactions, with Set II having deeper potential wells (order of magnitude). To differentiate which parameter set provides a better description of PTFE behavior, molecular dynamics simulations have been performed with Biosym Discover on clusters of PTFE chains which begin in a phase II packing environment. Added to the model are artificial constraints which allow the simulation of thermal expansion without having to define periodic boundary conditions for each specific temperature of interest. The preliminary dynamics simulations indicate that the intra- and intermolecular interactions provided by Set I are too weak. The degree of helical disorder and chain motion are high even at temperatures well below the phase II-phase IV transition temperature (19 C). Set II appears to yield a better description of PTFE in the solid state.

  6. Current status and perspectives of interventional clinical trials for glioblastoma - analysis of ClinicalTrials.gov.

    PubMed

    Cihoric, Nikola; Tsikkinis, Alexandros; Minniti, Giuseppe; Lagerwaard, Frank J; Herrlinger, Ulrich; Mathier, Etienne; Soldatovic, Ivan; Jeremic, Branislav; Ghadjar, Pirus; Elicin, Olgun; Lössl, Kristina; Aebersold, Daniel M; Belka, Claus; Herrmann, Evelyn; Niyazi, Maximilian

    2017-01-03

    The records of 208.777 (100%) clinical trials registered at ClinicalTrials.gov were downloaded on the 19th of February 2016. Phase II and III trials including patients with glioblastoma were selected for further classification and analysis. Based on the disease settings, trials were classified into three groups: newly diagnosed glioblastoma, recurrent disease and trials with no differentiation according to disease setting. Furthermore, we categorized trials according to the experimental interventions, the primary sponsor, the source of financial support and trial design elements. Trends were evaluated using the autoregressive integrated moving average model. Two hundred sixteen (0.1%) trials were selected for further analysis. Academic centers (investigator initiated trials) were recorded as primary sponsors in 56.9% of trials, followed by industry 25.9%. Industry was the leading source of monetary support for the selected trials in 44.4%, followed by 25% of trials with primarily academic financial support. The number of newly initiated trials between 2005 and 2015 shows a positive trend, mainly through an increase in phase II trials, whereas phase III trials show a negative trend. The vast majority of trials evaluate forms of different systemic treatments (91.2%). In total, one hundred different molecular entities or biologicals were identified. Of those, 60% were involving drugs specifically designed for central nervous system malignancies. Trials that specifically address radiotherapy, surgery, imaging and other therapeutic or diagnostic methods appear to be rare. Current research in glioblastoma is mainly driven or sponsored by industry, academic medical oncologists and neuro-oncologists, with the majority of trials evaluating forms of systemic therapies. Few trials reach phase III. Imaging, radiation therapy and surgical procedures are underrepresented in current trials portfolios. Optimization in research portfolio for glioblastoma is needed.

  7. Supercritical CO(2) fluid extraction of crystal water from trehalose dihydrate. Efficient production of form II (T(alpha)) phase.

    PubMed

    Akao, Ken-ichi; Okubo, Yusei; Inoue, Yoshio; Sakurai, Minoru

    2002-10-11

    Form II is a kind of metastable crystalline form of trehalose anhydrate, and it is easily converted to the dihydrate crystal by absorbing water in moist atmosphere at room temperature (Akao et al., Carbohydr. Res. 2001, 334, 233-241). It can be utilized as an edible and nontoxic desiccant, and thus its efficient production from the dihydrate is significant from a viewpoint of industrial applications. In this study, we attempt to extract crystal water from the dihydrate using supercritical CO(2). We examine the dependence of extraction efficiency on the extraction time, the temperature and pressure of the fluid. Then, FTIR measurements are carried out to detect the extracted water and to identify the polymorphic phase of the sugar sample after the extraction treatment. In particular, the so-called first derivative euclidean distance analysis for IR spectra is shown to be quite useful for the structural identification. Consequently, we demonstrate that form II is produced from the dihydrate through supercritical CO(2) fluid extraction if appropriate temperature and pressure conditions (around 80 degrees C and 20 MPa) are maintained.

  8. Fuel-Flexible Gasification-Combustion Technology for Production of H2 and Sequestration-Ready CO2

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Parag Kulkarni; Jie Guan; Raul Subia

    In the near future, the nation will continue to rely on fossil fuels for electricity, transportation, and chemicals. It is necessary to improve both the process efficiency and environmental impact of fossil fuel utilization including greenhouse gas management. GE Global Research (GEGR) investigated an innovative fuel-flexible Unmixed Fuel Processor (UFP) technology with potential to produce H{sub 2}, power, and sequestration-ready CO{sub 2} from coal and other solid fuels. The UFP technology offers the long-term potential for reduced cost, increased process efficiency relative to conventional gasification and combustion systems, and near-zero pollutant emissions. GE was awarded a contract from U.S. DOEmore » NETL to investigate and develop the UFP technology. Work started on the Phase I program in October 2000 and on the Phase II effort in April 2005. In the UFP technology, coal, water and air are simultaneously converted into (1) hydrogen rich stream that can be utilized in fuel cells or turbines, (2) CO{sub 2} rich stream for sequestration, and (3) high temperature/pressure vitiated air stream to produce electricity in a gas turbine expander. The process produces near-zero emissions with an estimated efficiency higher than Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC) process with conventional CO{sub 2} separation. The Phase I R&D program established the chemical feasibility of the major reactions of the integrated UFP technology through lab-, bench- and pilot-scale testing. A risk analysis session was carried out at the end of Phase I effort to identify the major risks in the UFP technology and a plan was developed to mitigate these risks in the Phase II of the program. The Phase II effort focused on three high-risk areas: economics, lifetime of solids used in the UFP process, and product gas quality for turbines (or the impact of impurities in the coal on the overall system). The economic analysis included estimating the capital cost as well as the costs of hydrogen and electricity for a full-scale UFP plant. These costs were benchmarked with IGCC polygen plants with similar level of CO{sub 2} capture. Based on the promising economic analysis comparison results (performed with the help from Worley Parsons), GE recommended a 'Go' decision in April 2006 to continue the experimental investigation of the UFP technology to address the remaining risks i.e. solids lifetime and the impact of impurities in the coal on overall system. Solids attrition and lifetime risk was addressed via bench-scale experiments that monitor solids performance over time and by assessing materials interactions at operating conditions. The product gas under the third reactor (high-temperature vitiated air) operating conditions was evaluated to assess the concentration of particulates, pollutants and other impurities relative to the specifications required for gas turbine feed streams. During this investigation, agglomeration of solids used in the UFP process was identified as a serious risk that impacts the lifetime of the solids and in turn feasibility of the UFP technology. The main causes of the solids agglomeration were the combination of oxygen transfer material (OTM) reduction at temperatures {approx}1000 C and interaction between OTM and CO{sub 2} absorbing material (CAM) at high operating temperatures (>1200 C). At the end of phase II, in March 2008, GEGR recommended a 'No-go' decision for taking the UFP technology to the next level of development, i.e. development of a 3-5 MW prototype system, at this time. GEGR further recommended focused materials development research programs on improving the performance and lifetime of solids materials used in UFP or chemical looping technologies. The scale-up activities would be recommended only after mitigating the risks involved with the agglomeration and overall lifetime of the solids. This is the final report for the phase II of the DOE-funded Vision 21 program entitled 'Fuel-Flexible Gasification-Combustion Technology for Production of H{sub 2} and Sequestration-Ready CO{sub 2}' (DOE Award No. DE-FC26-00NT40974). The report focuses on the major accomplishments and lessons learned in analyzing the risks of the novel UFP technology during Phase II of the DOE program.« less

  9. Laboratory modeling of energy dissipation in broken-back culverts - phase II.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2011-05-01

    This report represents Phase II of broken-back culverts with a drop of 6 feet. The first phase of this research was performed for a drop of 24 feet. This research investigates the reduction in scour downstream of a broken-back culvert by forming a hy...

  10. DEVELOPMENT OF A SCALABLE, LOW-COST, ULTRANANOCRYSTALLINE DIAMOND ELECTROCHEMICAL PROCESS FOR THE DESTRUCTION OF CONTAMINANTS OF EMERGING CONCERN (CECS) - PHASE II

    EPA Science Inventory

    This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II project will employ the large scale; highly reliable boron-doped ultrananocrystalline diamond (BD-UNCD®) electrodes developed during Phase I project to build and test Electrochemical Anodic Oxidation process (EAOP)...

  11. 78 FR 18305 - Notice of Request for Extension of a Currently Approved Information Collection

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-03-26

    ... Identity Verification (PIV) Request for Credential, the USDA Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12... consists of two phases of implementation: Personal Identity Verification phase I (PIV I) and Personal Identity Verification phase II (PIV II). The information requested must be provided by Federal employees...

  12. A two-step spin crossover mononuclear iron(II) complex with a [HS-LS-LS] intermediate phase.

    PubMed

    Bonnet, Sylvestre; Siegler, Maxime A; Costa, José Sánchez; Molnár, Gábor; Bousseksou, Azzedine; Spek, Anthony L; Gamez, Patrick; Reedijk, Jan

    2008-11-21

    The two-step spin crossover of a new mononuclear iron(ii) complex is studied by magnetic, crystallographic and calorimetric methods revealing two successive first-order phase transitions and an ordered intermediate phase built by the repetition of the unprecedented [HS-LS-LS] motif.

  13. The effectiveness and safety of traffic and non-traffic related messages presented on changeable message signs : phase II.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2008-08-01

    In Phase II of this investigation, we used a fully interactive PC-based STISIM driving simulator, to conduct two : experiments which were similar to experiments in Phase I. The participants were 120 licensed drivers from three : age groups18-24, 3...

  14. Tipster Text Phase 2 Architecture Design

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1996-06-19

    TIPSTER Text Phase II Architecture Design Version 2.1p 19 June 1996 Ralph Grishman New York University grishman @cs.nyu.edu and the TIPSTER...1996 2. REPORT TYPE 3. DATES COVERED 00-00-1996 to 00-00-1996 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE TIPSTER Text Phase II Architecture Design 5a. CONTRACT

  15. Solid-phase single molecule biosensing using dual-color colocalization of fluorescent quantum dot nanoprobes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Jianbo; Yang, Xiaohai; Wang, Kemin; Wang, Qing; Liu, Wei; Wang, Dong

    2013-10-01

    The development of solid-phase surface-based single molecule imaging technology has attracted significant interest during the past decades. Here we demonstrate a sandwich hybridization method for highly sensitive detection of a single thrombin protein at a solid-phase surface based on the use of dual-color colocalization of fluorescent quantum dot (QD) nanoprobes. Green QD560-modified thrombin binding aptamer I (QD560-TBA I) were deposited on a positive poly(l-lysine) assembled layer, followed by bovine serum albumin blocking. It allowed the thrombin protein to mediate the binding of the easily detectable red QD650-modified thrombin binding aptamer II (QD650-TBA II) to the QD560-TBA I substrate. Thus, the presence of the target thrombin can be determined based on fluorescent colocalization measurements of the nanoassemblies, without target amplification or probe separation. The detection limit of this assay reached 0.8 pM. This fluorescent colocalization assay has enabled single molecule recognition in a separation-free detection format, and can serve as a sensitive biosensing platform that greatly suppresses the nonspecific adsorption false-positive signal. This method can be extended to other areas such as multiplexed immunoassay, single cell analysis, and real time biomolecule interaction studies.The development of solid-phase surface-based single molecule imaging technology has attracted significant interest during the past decades. Here we demonstrate a sandwich hybridization method for highly sensitive detection of a single thrombin protein at a solid-phase surface based on the use of dual-color colocalization of fluorescent quantum dot (QD) nanoprobes. Green QD560-modified thrombin binding aptamer I (QD560-TBA I) were deposited on a positive poly(l-lysine) assembled layer, followed by bovine serum albumin blocking. It allowed the thrombin protein to mediate the binding of the easily detectable red QD650-modified thrombin binding aptamer II (QD650-TBA II) to the QD560-TBA I substrate. Thus, the presence of the target thrombin can be determined based on fluorescent colocalization measurements of the nanoassemblies, without target amplification or probe separation. The detection limit of this assay reached 0.8 pM. This fluorescent colocalization assay has enabled single molecule recognition in a separation-free detection format, and can serve as a sensitive biosensing platform that greatly suppresses the nonspecific adsorption false-positive signal. This method can be extended to other areas such as multiplexed immunoassay, single cell analysis, and real time biomolecule interaction studies. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Absorbance and fluorescence spectra of quantum dot nanoprobes, electrophoresis analysis, and experimental setup for fluorescence imaging with dual channels. See DOI: 10.1039/c3nr03291d

  16. Protocol for the ProCare Trial: a phase II randomised controlled trial of shared care for follow-up of men with prostate cancer

    PubMed Central

    Emery, Jon; Doorey, Juanita; Jefford, Michael; King, Madeleine; Pirotta, Marie; Hayne, Dickon; Martin, Andrew; Trevena, Lyndal; Lim, Tee; Constable, Roger; Hawks, Cynthia; Hyatt, Amelia; Hamid, Akhlil; Violet, John; Gill, Suki; Frydenberg, Mark; Schofield, Penelope

    2014-01-01

    Introduction Men with prostate cancer require long-term follow-up to monitor disease progression and manage common adverse physical and psychosocial consequences of treatment. There is growing recognition of the potential role of primary care in cancer follow-up. This paper describes the protocol for a phase II multisite randomised controlled trial of a novel model of shared care for the follow-up of men after completing treatment for low-moderate risk prostate cancer. Methods and analysis The intervention is a shared care model of follow-up visits in the first 12 months after completing treatment for prostate cancer with the following specific components: a survivorship care plan, general practitioner (GP) management guidelines, register and recall systems, screening for distress and unmet needs and patient information resources. Eligible men will have completed surgery and/or radiotherapy for low-moderate risk prostate cancer within the previous 8 weeks and have a GP who consents to participate. Ninety men will be randomised to the intervention or current hospital follow-up care. Study outcome measures will be collected at baseline, 3, 6 and 12 months and include anxiety, depression, unmet needs, prostate cancer-specific quality of life and satisfaction with care. Clinical processes and healthcare resource usage will also be measured. The principal emphasis of the analysis will be on obtaining estimates of the treatment effect size and assessing feasibility in order to inform the design of a subsequent phase III trial. Ethics and dissemination Ethics approval has been granted by the University of Western Australia and from all hospital recruitment sites in Western Australia and Victoria. Results of this phase II trial will be reported in peer-reviewed publications and in conference presentations. Trial Registration Australian New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry ACTRN12610000938000 PMID:24604487

  17. Phase diagram calculations and high pressure Raman spectroscopy studies of organic "plastic crystal" thermal energy storage materials

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chellappa, Raja S.

    This dissertation presents the phase diagram calculations and high pressure Raman spectroscopy studies on organic "plastic crystal" thermal storage materials. The organic "plastic crystals" that were studied include pentaerythritol [PE:C(CH 2OH)4], neopentylglycol [NPG:(CH3)2C(CH 2OH)2], tris(hydroxymethyl)-aminomethane [TRIS:(NH2 )C(CH2OH)3], and 2-amino-2-methyl-1,3-propanediol [AMPL: (NH2)(CH3)C(CH2OH)2]. Thermodynamic optimization of the experimental data of AMPL-NPG and PE-AMPL binary system was performed and the calculated phase diagrams are presented. A preliminary calculated phase diagram of the TRIS-NPG binary system is also presented. A thorough reevaluation of the existing calorimetric and x-ray diffraction data of the PE-AMPL binary system is also presented. This analysis resulted in the correct interpretation of the phase boundaries and a revised phase diagram has been drawn. The results of high pressure Raman spectroscopy experiments on neopentylglycol and pentaerythritol presented. The phase transformation pressures were determined by analyzing the frequency shifts as a function of pressure as well as the changes in the internal modes of vibration for these compounds. A simplified assignment of the vibrational modes for NPG at ambient pressure is presented. The results indicate experiments were carried out using Diamond Anvil Cell (DAC) and the pressure induced transformations were studied by Raman spectroscopy. In NPG, a phase transition occurs at ˜3.6 GPa from Phase I (Monoclinic) to Phase II (unknown structure). In PE, the proposed phase transformation pressures are ˜4.8 GPa (Phase I to Phase II), ˜6.9 GPa (Phase II to Phase III), ˜9.5 GPa (Phase III to Phase IV), and ˜15 GPa (Phase IV to Amorphous). The results of a critical assessment of the vapor pressure data of solid metal carbonyls. The vapor pressure data of Chromium Carbonyl (Cr(CO)6), Tungsten Carbonyl (W(CO)6 ), Osmium Carbonyl (Os3(CO)12), Molybdenum Carbonyl (MO(CO)6). Rhenium Carbonyl (Re2(CO)10), and Manganese Carbonyl (Mn(CO)5) were assessed using the "Oonk Methodology". The sublimation properties using the assessed data (Delta subGo,DeltasubH o and Deltasub Cop,m ) of these compounds have been evaluated and a discussion on the mutual consistency of various data sets for each compound over a wide range of temperature is also presented.

  18. Phase I/II trial of 2-weekly docetaxel combined with cisplatin plus fluorouracil in metastatic esophageal cancer (JCOG0807)

    PubMed Central

    Hironaka, Shuichi; Tsubosa, Yasuhiro; Mizusawa, Junki; Kii, Takayuki; Kato, Ken; Tsushima, Takahiro; Chin, Keisho; Tomori, Akihisa; Okuno, Tatsuya; Taniki, Toshikatsu; Ura, Takashi; Matsushita, Hisayuki; Kojima, Takashi; Doki, Yuichiro; Kusaba, Hitoshi; Fujitani, Kazumasa; Taira, Koichi; Seki, Shiko; Nakamura, Tsutomu; Kitagawa, Yuko

    2014-01-01

    We carried out a phase I/II trial of adding 2-weekly docetaxel to cisplatin plus fluorouracil (CF) therapy (2-weekly DCF regimen) in esophageal cancer patients to investigate its safety and antimetastatic activity. Patients received 2-weekly docetaxel (30 mg/m2 [dose level (DL)1] or 40 mg/m2 [DL2] with a 3 + 3 design in phase I, on days 1 and 15) in combination with fixed-dose CF (80 mg/m2 cisplatin, day 1; 800 mg/m2 fluorouracil, days 1–5) repeated every 4 weeks. The primary endpoint was dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) in phase I and central peer review-based response rate in phase II. At least 22 responders among 50 patients were required to satisfy the primary endpoint with a threshold of 35%. Sixty-two patients were enrolled in phase I and II. In phase I, 10 patients were enrolled with DLT of 0/3 at DL1 and 2/7 in DL2. Considering DLT and treatment compliance, the recommended phase II dose was determined as DL1. In phase II, the response rate was 62% (P < 0.0001; 95% confidence interval, 48–75%); median overall survival and progression-free survival were 11.1 and 5.8 months, respectively. Common grade 3/4 adverse events were neutropenia (25%), anemia (36%), hyponatremia (29%), anorexia (24%), and nausea (11%). No febrile neutropenia was observed. Pneumonitis caused treatment-related death in one patient. The 2-weekly DCF regimen showed promising antimetastatic activity and tolerability. A phase III study comparing this regimen with CF therapy is planned by the Japan Clinical Oncology Group. This study was registered at the UMIN Clinical Trials Registry as UMIN 000001737. PMID:25041052

  19. Unusual Enhancement of Magnetization by Pressure in the Antiferro-Quadrupole-Ordered Phase in CeB6

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ikeda, Suguru; Sera, Masafumi; Hane, Shingo; Uwatoko, Yoshiya; Kosaka, Masashi; Kunii, Satoru

    2007-06-01

    The effect of pressure on CeB6 was investigated by the measurement of the magnetization (M) under pressure, and we obtained the following results. The effect of pressure on M in phase I is very small. By applying pressure, TQ is enhanced, but TN and the critical field from the antiferromagnetic (AFM) phase III to the antiferro-quadrupole (AFQ) phase II (HcIII--II) are suppressed, as previously reported. The magnetization curve in phase III shows the characteristic shoulder at H˜ HcIII--II/2 at ambient pressure. This shoulder becomes much more pronounced by applying pressure. Both HcIII--II and the magnetic field, where a shoulder is seen in the magnetization curve in phase III, are largely suppressed by pressure. In phase II, the M-T curve at a low magnetic field exhibits an unusual concave temperature dependence below TQ down to TN. Thus, we found that the lower the magnetic field, the larger the enhancement of M in both phases III and II. To clarify the origin of the unusual pressure effect of M, we performed a mean-field calculation for the 4-sublattice model using the experimental results of dTQ/dP>0 and dTN/dP<0 and assuming the positive pressure dependence of the Txyz-antiferro-octupole (AFO) interaction. The characteristic features of the pressure effect of M obtained by the experiments could be reproduced well by the mean-field calculation. We found that the origin of the characteristic effect of pressure on CeB6 is the change in the subtle balance between the AFM interaction and the magnetic field-induced-effective FM interaction induced by the coexistence of the Oxy-AFQ and Txyz-AFO interactions under pressure.

  20. Quantum phase space with a basis of Wannier functions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fang, Yuan; Wu, Fan; Wu, Biao

    2018-02-01

    A quantum phase space with Wannier basis is constructed: (i) classical phase space is divided into Planck cells; (ii) a complete set of Wannier functions are constructed with the combination of Kohn’s method and Löwdin method such that each Wannier function is localized at a Planck cell. With these Wannier functions one can map a wave function unitarily onto phase space. Various examples are used to illustrate our method and compare it to Wigner function. The advantage of our method is that it can smooth out the oscillations in wave functions without losing any information and is potentially a better tool in studying quantum-classical correspondence. In addition, we point out that our method can be used for time-frequency analysis of signals.

  1. Intermittent Versus Daily Pulmonary Tuberculosis Treatment Regimens: A Meta-Analysis

    PubMed Central

    Kasozi, Samuel; Clark, Justin; Doi, Suhail A. R.

    2015-01-01

    Background Several systematic reviews suggest that intermittent pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) chemotherapy is effective, but intensity (daily versus intermittent) and duration of rifampicin use (intensive phase only versus both phases) have not been distinguished. In addition, the various outcomes (success, failure, relapse, and default) have only selectively been evaluated. Methods We conducted a meta-analysis of proportions using all four outcomes as multi-category proportions to examine the effectiveness of WHO category 1 TB treatment regimens. Database searches of studies reporting treatment outcomes of HIV negative subjects were included and stratified by intensity of therapy and duration of rifampicin therapy. Using a bias-adjusted statistical model, we pooled proportions of the four treatment outcome categories using a method that handles multi-category proportions. Results A total of 27 studies comprising of 48 data sets with 10,624 participants were studied. Overall, treatment success was similar among patients treated with intermittent (I/I) (88%) (95% CI, 81–92) and daily (D/D) (90%) (95% CI, 84–95) regimens. Default was significantly less with I/I (0%) (95% CI, 0–2) compared to D/D regimens (5%) (95% CI, 1–9). Nevertheless, I/I relapse rates (7%) (95% CI, 3–11) were higher than D/D relapse rates (1%) (95% CI, 0–3). Conclusion Treatment regimens that are offered completely intermittently versus completely daily are associated with a trade-off between treatment relapse and treatment default. There is a possibility that I/I regimens can be improved by increasing treatment duration, and this needs to be urgently addressed by future studies. PMID:26056374

  2. Pharmacotherapeutics of Intranasal Scopolamine: FDA Regulations and Procedures for Clinical Applications

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Das, H.; Daniels, V. R.; Vaksman, Z.; Boyd, J. L.; Buckey, J. C.; Locke, J. P.; Putcha, L.

    2007-01-01

    Space Motion Sickness (SMS) is commonly experienced by astronauts and often requires treatment with medications during the early flight days of a space mission. Bioavailability of oral (PO) SMS medications is often low and highly variable; additionally, physiological changes in a microgravity environment exacerbate variability and decrease bioavailability. These factors prompted NASA to develop an intranasal dosage form of scopolamine (INSCOP) suitable for the treatment of SMS. However, to assure safety and efficacy of treatment in space, NASA physicians prescribe commercially available pharmaceutical products only. Development of a pharmaceutical preparation for clinical use must follow distinct clinical phases of testing, phase I through IV to be exact, before it can be approved by the FDA for approval for clinical use. After a physician sponsored Investigative New Drug (IND) application was approved by the FDA, a phase I clinical trial of INSCOP formulation was completed in normal human subjects and results published. The current project includes three phase II clinical protocols for the assessment of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics (PK/PD), efficacy, and safety of INSCOP. Three clinical protocols that were submitted to FDA to accomplish the project objectives: 1) 002-A, a FDA Phase II dose ranging study with four dose levels between 0.1 and 0.4 mg in 12 subjects to assess PK/PD, 2) 002-B, a phase II clinical efficacy study in eighteen healthy subjects to compare efficacy of 0.2 (low dose) and 0.4 mg (high dose) INSCOP for prophylactic treatment of motion-induces (off-axis vertical rotation) symptoms, and (3) 002-C, a phase II clinical study with twelve subjects to determine bioavailability and pharmacodynamics of two doses (0.2 and 0.4 mg) of INSCOP in simulated microgravity, antiorthostatic bedrest. All regulatory procedures were competed that include certification for Good laboratory Procedures by Theradex , clinical documentation, personnel training, selection of clinical research operations contractor, data capturing and management, and annual reporting of results to FDA were successfully completed. Protocol 002-A was completed and sample and data analysis is currently in progress. Protocol 002-B is currently in progress at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center and Protocol 002-C has been submitted to the FDA and will be implemented at the same contractor site as 002-A. An annual report was filed as required by FDA on the results of Protocol 002-A. Once all the three Phase II protocols are completed, a New Drug Administration application will be filed with FDA for Phase III clinical assessment and approval for marketing of the formulation. A commercial vendor will be identified for this phase. This is critical for making this available for treatment of SMS in astronauts and military personnel on duty. Once approved by FDA, INSCOP can be also used by civilian population for motion sickness associated with recreational travel and other ailments that require treatment with anticholinergic drugs.

  3. Crystal structure, electrical transport and phase transition in 2-methoxyanilinium hexachlorido stannate(IV) dehydrate

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Karoui, Sahel; Chouaib, Hassen; Kamoun, Slaheddine

    2017-04-01

    A new organic-inorganic (C7H10NO)2[SnCl6]2H2O compound was synthesized and characterized by X-ray diffraction, thermal analysis, NMR spectroscopy and dielectric measurements. The crystal structure refinement shows that this compound crystallizes at 298 K in the monoclinic system (P21/a space group (Z = 2)). The structure was solved by Patterson method and refined to a final value of R = 0.034 for 2207 independent observed reflections. The cohesion and stability of the atomic arrangement result from the establishment of Nsbnd H⋯Cl, O(W)sbnd H(W)⋯Cl and Nsbnd H⋯O(W) hydrogen bonds between (C7H10NO)+ cations, isolated (SnCl6)2- anions and water molecules. This compound exhibits a phase transition at 305 K which was characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-rays powder diffraction and dielectric measurements. At high frequency, the electrical σTot.(ω,T) conductivity obey to the Jonscher's power law σTot.(ω,T) = σDC(T) + B(T) ωS(T). DC and AC conductivity in (C7H10NO)2[SnCl6]2H2O was investigated revealing that the phase transition from the monoclinic P21/a (phase I) to the monoclinic C2/c (phase II) which occurs at 305 K is characterized by a change of the mechanism of the electric transport: SPT in phase I and CBH in phase II.

  4. Defense Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR). Abstracts of Phase I Awards. 1986.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1986-01-01

    RELATIVE HUMIDITY AT TEMPERATURES FOUND IN ARCTIC ENVIRONMENTS. IT IS BASED ON THE OBSERVATION THAT CERTAIN FLUORESCENT AND PHOSPHORESCENT COMPOUNDS ...FREEDMAN TITLE: III-V COMPOUNDS TRACE ELEMENT PROFILE ANALYSIS USING LASER ASSISTED S PECTROSCOPY T 55 OFFICE: RADC/DOR A NOVEL MICROPROBE ANALYSIS...AND II-VI AND III-V COMPOUNDS . THESE ADVANTAGES MAKE THE LSCE TECHNIQUE PARTICULARY WELL SUITED TO THE DEPOSITION OF QUANTUM WELL AND SUPERLATT ICE

  5. Phase II Tungsten Fate-and Transport Study for Camp Edwards

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2010-02-01

    soil and water . However, previous studies at the Massachusetts Military Reservation (MMR) at Camp Edwards demonstrated that metallic tungsten used ...7.5-12.5 ft bwt) using a Waterra sampler. Unfiltered and filtered water samples were sent to ERDC-EL for analysis of tungsten and other metals... water for tungsten and metals using ICP-MS, following the USEPA Method 6020 for sample preparation by EPA Method 3005. Metals analysis included antimony

  6. Integration, acceptance testing, and clinical operation of the Medical Information, Communication and Archive System, phase II.

    PubMed

    Smith, E M; Wandtke, J; Robinson, A

    1999-05-01

    The Medical Information, Communication and Archive System (MICAS) is a multivendor incremental approach to picture archiving and communications system (PACS). It is a multimodality integrated image management system that is seamlessly integrated with the radiology information system (RIS). Phase II enhancements of MICAS include a permanent archive, automated workflow, study caches, Microsoft (Redmond, WA) Windows NT diagnostic workstations with all components adhering to Digital Information Communications in Medicine (DICOM) standards. MICAS is designed as an enterprise-wide PACS to provide images and reports throughout the Strong Health healthcare network. Phase II includes the addition of a Cemax-Icon (Fremont, CA) archive, PACS broker (Mitra, Waterloo, Canada), an interface (IDX PACSlink, Burlington, VT) to the RIS (IDXrad) plus the conversion of the UNIX-based redundant array of inexpensive disks (RAID) 5 temporary archives in phase I to NT-based RAID 0 DICOM modality-specific study caches (ImageLabs, Bedford, MA). The phase I acquisition engines and workflow management software was uninstalled and the Cemax archive manager (AM) assumed these functions. The existing ImageLabs UNIX-based viewing software was enhanced and converted to an NT-based DICOM viewer. Installation of phase II hardware and software and integration with existing components began in July 1998. Phase II of MICAS demonstrates that a multivendor open-system incremental approach to PACS is feasible, cost-effective, and has significant advantages over a single-vendor implementation.

  7. Chemoradiation in elderly esophageal cancer patients: rationale and design of a phase I/II multicenter study (OSAGE).

    PubMed

    Servagi-Vernat, Stéphanie; Créhange, Gilles; Bonnetain, Franck; Mertens, Cécile; Brain, Etienne; Bosset, Jean François

    2017-07-13

    The management of elderly patients with cancer is a therapeutic challenge and a public health problem. Definitive chemoradiotherapy (CRT) is an accepted standard treatment for patients with locally advanced esophageal cancer who cannot undergo surgery. However, there are few reports regarding tolerance to CRT in elderly patients. We previously reported results for CRT in patients aged ≥75 years. Following this first phase II trial, we propose to conduct a phase I/II study to evaluate the combination of carboplatin and paclitaxel, with concurrent RT in unresectable esophageal cancer patients aged 75 years or older. This prospective multicenter phase I/II study will include esophageal cancer in patients aged 75 years or older. Study procedures will consist to determinate the tolerated dose of chemotherapy (Carboplatin, paclitaxel) and of radiotherapy (41.4-45 and 50.4 Gy) in the phase I. Efficacy will be assessed using a co-primary endpoint encompassing health related quality of life and the progression-free survival in the phase II with the dose recommended of CRT in the phase I. This geriatric evaluation was defined by the French geriatric oncology group (GERICO). This trial has been designed to assess the tolerated dose of CRT in selected patient aged 75 years or older. Clinicaltrials.gov ID: NCT02735057 . Registered on 18 March 2016.

  8. Assessing critical thinking in medical sciences students in two sequential semesters: Does it improve?

    PubMed

    Athari, Zeinab-Sadat; Sharif, Sayyed-Mostafa; Nasr, Ahmad Reza; Nematbakhsh, Mehdi

    2013-01-01

    Critical thinking is an important outcome criterion of higher education in any discipline. Medical and paramedical students always encounter with many new problems in clinical settings and medicinal laboratory, and critical thinking is an essential skill in obtaining a better approach for problem solving. We performed a pre-and post-test to evaluate the change of critical thinking skills in medical sciences students who enrolled in Isfahan University of Medical Sciences in Iran during the academic years 2008-2010. In a longitudinal design study, the critical thinking skills were compared in medical sciences students in two sequential semesters using the California Critical Thinking Skills Test. The test is divided into two parts (parts 1 and 2), including 17 items in each part. Based on proportional stratified sampling, a groups of students (group 1, n=159) were selected from the university population, who enrolled in medicine, pharmacy, nursing, and rehabilitation colleges. The students in group 1 were asked to complete the part 1 of the test (phase I). After one semester, another group (group 2, n=138) from the same population was randomly selected, and they were asked to complete the part two (phase II). The students' demographic data also were recorded. The California critical thinking skills test was translated and it validity and reliability were approved before. No significant difference was observed between the two groups in the demographic data. The students critical thinking scores in phase II significantly reduced in comparison with phase 1 (p<0.05). The phase II scores in subdivisions of analysis, inference, inductive reasoning, and deductive reasoning also failed to demonstrate improvement. It seems curriculum reform is necessary to improve the students' critical thinking.

  9. Mogamulizumab for relapsed adult T-cell leukemia-lymphoma: Updated follow-up analysis of phase I and II studies.

    PubMed

    Ishida, Takashi; Utsunomiya, Atae; Jo, Tatsuro; Yamamoto, Kazuhito; Kato, Koji; Yoshida, Shinichiro; Takemoto, Shigeki; Suzushima, Hitoshi; Kobayashi, Yukio; Imaizumi, Yoshitaka; Yoshimura, Kenichi; Kawamura, Kouichi; Takahashi, Takeshi; Tobinai, Kensei; Ueda, Ryuzo

    2017-10-01

    The present study sought to elucidate the prognosis of adult T-cell leukemia-lymphoma (ATL) patients receiving mogamulizumab, a defucosylated anti-CCR4 monoclonal antibody. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) of ATL patients enrolled in two studies are herein updated, namely NCT00355472 (phase I study of mogamulizumab in relapsed patients with ATL and peripheral T-cell lymphoma) and NCT00920790 (phase II study for relapsed ATL). Of 13 patients with relapsed aggressive ATL in the phase I study, four (31%) survived >3 years. For 26 relapsed patients with aggressive ATL in the phase II study, median PFS was 5.2 months and 1-year PFS was 26%, whereas median OS was 14.4 months, and 3-year OS was 23%. For patients without a rash or who developed a grade 1 rash only, median PFS was 0.8 months, and 1-year PFS was zero, with a median OS of 6.0 months, and 3-year OS of 8%. In contrast, for patients who developed a rash ≥grade 2, median PFS was 11.7 months, and 1-year PFS was 50%, with a median OS of 25.6 months, and 3-year OS of 36%. Thus, we conclude that mogamulizumab monotherapy may improve PFS and OS in some patients with relapsed aggressive ATL, especially those who develop a skin rash as a moderate immune-related adverse event. Therefore, further investigation is warranted to validate the present observations and to clarify the mechanisms involved in the activity of mogamulizumab. © 2017 The Authors. Cancer Science published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of Japanese Cancer Association.

  10. Factors associated with failure of oncology drugs in late-stage clinical development: A systematic review.

    PubMed

    Jardim, Denis L; Groves, Eric S; Breitfeld, Philip P; Kurzrock, Razelle

    2017-01-01

    We aimed to describe the reasons for failure of experimental anticancer drugs in late-stage clinical development. We searched the PharmaProjects database (https://citeline.com/products/pharmaprojects/) for anticancer drugs discontinued between 01/01/2009 and 06/30/2014. Drug programs that reached phase III trials, but never gained Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval were compared to 37 anti-cancer drugs achieving FDA approval in this time period. Forty-two drugs fit our criteria for development failures. These failed drugs (49% targeted, 23% cytotoxics, and 28% other) were tested in 43 cancer indications (drug programs). Only 16% (7/43) of failed drug programs adopted a biomarker-driven rationale for patient selection versus 57% (21/37) of successful drug programs (P<0.001). Phase II trial information was available in 32 of 43 failed drug programs and in 32 of 37 successful programs. Nine of the 32 trials (28%) of failed drugs versus 28 of 32 trials (87%) of successful drugs (P<0.001) achieved proof of concept (single agent response rate (RR) ⩾20% or combination therapy showing a ⩾20% RR increase above the median historical RR without the experimental agent (with a minimal absolute increase of 5%) or a randomized phase II trial showing significance (P⩽0.05) for its primary outcome). No pattern of study sites, trial design or funding characteristics emerged from the failed drug analysis. For drugs that reached Phase III, lack of a biomarker-driven strategy and failure to attain proof of concept in phase II are potential risk factors for later discontinuation, especially for targeted agents. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  11. Geraniol modulates tongue and hepatic phase I and phase II conjugation activities and may contribute directly to the chemopreventive activity against experimental oral carcinogenesis.

    PubMed

    Madankumar, Arumugam; Jayakumar, Subramaniyan; Gokuladhas, Krishnan; Rajan, Balan; Raghunandhakumar, Subramanian; Asokkumar, Selvamani; Devaki, Thiruvengadam

    2013-04-05

    Xenobiotic metabolizing enzymes are chief determinants in both the susceptibility to mutagenic effect of chemical carcinogens and in the response of tumors to chemotherapy. The present study was aimed to analyze the effect of geraniol administration on the activity of phase I and phase II carcinogen metabolizing enzymes through the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor-2 (Nrf2) activation against 4-niroquinoline-1-oxide (4NQO) induced oral carcinogenesis. The well-known chemical carcinogen 4NQO (50 ppm) was used to induce oral carcinogenesis through drinking water for 4, 12, and 20 weeks. The degree of cancer progression at each stage was confirmed by histological examination. At the end of the experimental period, 100% tumor formation was observed in the oral cavity of 4NQO induced animals with significant (P<0.05) alteration in the status of tumor markers, tongue and liver phase I and phase II drug metabolizing enzymes indicating progression of disease. Oral administration of geraniol at the dose of 200 mg/kg b.wt., thrice a week to 4NQO induced animals was able to inhibit tumor formation and thereby delayed the progression of oral carcinogenesis by modulating tongue and liver phase I and phase II drug metabolizing enzymes, as substantiated further by the histological and transmission electron microscopic studies. Our results demonstrate that geraniol exerts its chemopreventive potential by altering activities of phases I and II drug metabolizing enzymes to achieve minimum bioactivation of carcinogen and maximum detoxification. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. Secukinumab long-term safety experience: A pooled analysis of 10 phase II and III clinical studies in patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.

    PubMed

    van de Kerkhof, Peter C M; Griffiths, Christopher E M; Reich, Kristian; Leonardi, Craig L; Blauvelt, Andrew; Tsai, Tsen-Fang; Gong, Yankun; Huang, Jiaqing; Papavassilis, Charis; Fox, Todd

    2016-07-01

    Secukinumab, a fully human anti-interleukin-17A monoclonal antibody, has demonstrated efficacy and safety in patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. We reviewed safety data from the secukinumab psoriasis phase II/III program. Data were pooled from 10 phase II/III secukinumab psoriasis studies. Analysis included 3993 subjects; 3430 received secukinumab, representing 2725 subject-years (SYs) of exposure. Over 52 weeks, for secukinumab 300 mg, 150 mg, and etanercept, respectively, exposure-adjusted incidence rates (IRs) per 100 SYs were comparable across treatments for total adverse events (AEs; 236.1, 239.9, and 243.4, respectively); infections (91.1, 85.3, and 93.7, respectively); serious AEs (7.4, 6.8, and 7.0, respectively); serious infections (1.4, 1.1, and 1.4, respectively); malignant or unspecified tumors (0.77, 0.97, and 0.68, respectively); and adjudicated major adverse cardiovascular events (0.42, 0.35, and 0.34, respectively). AEs were not dose-related except for nonserious, mild/moderate, skin/mucosal candidiasis (IRs 3.55, 1.85, and 1.37 for secukinumab 300 mg, 150 mg, and etanercept, respectively). There was a limited number of patients in comparator groups and the exposure to placebo was short. Secukinumab had a favorable safety profile, had no meaningful difference between the 300- and 150-mg doses and, in terms of safety, was comparable to etanercept over 52 weeks in patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. Copyright © 2016 American Academy of Dermatology, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. System Design of a Natural Gas PEM Fuel Cell Power Plant for Buildings

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Joe Ferrall, Tim Rehg, Vesna Stanic

    2000-09-30

    The following conclusions are made based on this analysis effort: (1) High-temperature PEM data are not available; (2) Stack development effort for Phase II is required; (3) System results are by definition preliminary, mostly due to the immaturity of the high-temperature stack; other components of the system are relatively well defined; (4) The Grotthuss conduction mechanism yields the preferred system characteristics; the Grotthuss conduction mechanism is also much less technically mature than the vehicle mechanism; (5) Fuel processor technology is available today and can be procured for Phase II (steam or ATR); (6) The immaturity of high-temperature membrane technology requiresmore » that a robust system design be developed in Phase II that is capable of operating over a wide temperature and pressure range - (a) Unpressurized or Pressurized PEM (Grotthuss mechanism) at 140 C, Highest temperature most favorable, Lowest water requirement most favorable, Pressurized recommended for base loaded operation, Unpressurized may be preferred for load following; (b) Pressurized PEM (vehicle mechanism) at about 100 C, Pressure required for saturation, Fuel cell technology currently available, stack development required. The system analysis and screening evaluation resulted in the identification of the following components for the most promising system: (1) Steam reforming fuel processor; (2) Grotthuss mechanism fuel cell stack operating at 140 C; (3) Means to deliver system waste heat to a cogeneration unit; (4) Pressurized system utilizing a turbocompressor for a base-load power application. If duty cycling is anticipated, the benefits of compression may be offset due to complexity of control. In this case (and even in the base loaded case), the turbocompressor can be replaced with a blower for low-pressure operation.« less

  14. Development and psychometric properties of a new social support scale for self-care in middle-aged patients with type II diabetes (S4-MAD)

    PubMed Central

    2012-01-01

    Background Social support has proved to be one of the most effective factors on the success of diabetic self-care. This study aimed to develop a scale for evaluating social support for self-care in middle-aged patients (30–60 years old) with type II diabetes. Methods This was a two-phase qualitative and quantitative study. The study was conducted during 2009 to 2011 in Tehran, Iran. In the qualitative part, a sample of diabetic patients participated in four focus group discussions in order to develop a preliminary item pool. Consequently, content and face validity were performed to provide a pre-final version of the questionnaire. Then, in a quantitative study, reliability (internal consistency and test-retest analysis), validity and factor analysis (both exploratory and confirmatory) were performed to assess psychometric properties of the scale. Results A 38-item questionnaire was developed through the qualitative phase. It was reduced to a 33-item after content validity. Exploratory factor analysis loaded a 30-item with a five-factor solution (nutrition, physical activity, self monitoring of blood glucose, foot care and smoking) that jointly accounted for 72.3% of observed variance. The confirmatory factor analysis indicated a good fit to the data. The Cronbach’s alpha coefficient showed excellent internal consistency (alpha=0.94), and test-retest of the scale with 2-weeks intervals indicated an appropriate stability for the scale (ICC=0.87). Conclusion The findings showed that the designed questionnaire was a valid and reliable instrument for measuring social support for self-care in middle-aged patients with type II diabetes. It is an easy to use questionnaire and contains the most significant diabetes related behaviors that need continuous support for self-care. PMID:23190685

  15. Polymorphism of paracetamol: relative stabilities of the monoclinic and orthorhombic phases inferred from topological pressure-temperature and temperature-volume phase diagrams.

    PubMed

    Espeau, Philippe; Céolin, René; Tamarit, Josep-Lluis; Perrin, Marc-Antoine; Gauchi, Jean-Pierre; Leveiller, Franck

    2005-03-01

    The thermodynamic relationships between the two known polymorphs of paracetamol have been investigated, and the subsequent pressure-temperature and temperature-volume phase diagrams were constructed using data from crystallographic and calorimetric measurements as a function of the temperature. Irrespective of temperature, monoclinic Form I and orthorhombic Form II are stable phases at ordinary and high pressures, respectively. The I and II phase regions in the pressure-temperature diagram are bordered by the I-II equilibrium curve, for which a negative slope (dp/dT approximately -0.3 MPa x K(-1)) was determined although it was not observed experimentally. This curve goes through the I-II-liquid triple point whose coordinates (p approximately 234 MPa, T approximately 505 K) correspond to the crossing point of the melting curves, for which dp/dT values of +3.75 MPa x K(-1) (I) and +3.14 MPa x K(-1) (II) were calculated from enthalpy and volume changes upon fusion. More generally, this case exemplifies how the stability hierarchy of polymorphs may be inferred from the difference in their sublimation curves, as topologically positioned with respect to each other, using the phase rule and simple inferences resorting to Gibbs equilibrium thermodynamics. Copyright 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association.

  16. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Brian McPherson

    The Southwest Partnership on Carbon Sequestration completed its Phase I program in December 2005. The main objective of the Southwest Partnership Phase I project was to evaluate and demonstrate the means for achieving an 18% reduction in carbon intensity by 2012. Many other goals were accomplished on the way to this objective, including (1) analysis of CO{sub 2} storage options in the region, including characterization of storage capacities and transportation options, (2) analysis and summary of CO{sub 2} sources, (3) analysis and summary of CO{sub 2} separation and capture technologies employed in the region, (4) evaluation and ranking of themore » most appropriate sequestration technologies for capture and storage of CO{sub 2} in the Southwest Region, (5) dissemination of existing regulatory/permitting requirements, and (6) assessing and initiating public knowledge and acceptance of possible sequestration approaches. Results of the Southwest Partnership's Phase I evaluation suggested that the most convenient and practical ''first opportunities'' for sequestration would lie along existing CO{sub 2} pipelines in the region. Action plans for six Phase II validation tests in the region were developed, with a portfolio that includes four geologic pilot tests distributed among Utah, New Mexico, and Texas. The Partnership will also conduct a regional terrestrial sequestration pilot program focusing on improved terrestrial MMV methods and reporting approaches specific for the Southwest region. The sixth and final validation test consists of a local-scale terrestrial pilot involving restoration of riparian lands for sequestration purposes. The validation test will use desalinated waters produced from one of the geologic pilot tests. The Southwest Regional Partnership comprises a large, diverse group of expert organizations and individuals specializing in carbon sequestration science and engineering, as well as public policy and outreach. These partners include 21 state government agencies and universities, five major electric utility companies, seven oil, gas and coal companies, three federal agencies, the Navajo Nation, several NGOs, and the Western Governors Association. This group is continuing its work in the Phase II Validation Program, slated to conclude in 2009.« less

  17. Paclitaxel and carboplatin in early phase studies: Roswell Park Cancer Institute experience in the subset of patients with lung cancer.

    PubMed

    Creaven, P J; Raghavan, D; Pendyala, L; Loewen, G; Kindler, H L; Berghorn, E J

    1997-08-01

    The combination of paclitaxel (Taxol; Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, NJ) given by 3-hour infusion followed by carboplatin infused over 30 minutes has been evaluated in a series of phase I studies and is currently being explored in a phase II study in patients with limited- and extensive-stage small cell lung cancer. Pharmacokinetic measurements were performed at all dose levels in the phase I studies, in which the use of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor in previously treated patients enabled more than twice the dose of paclitaxel to be given with low to moderate doses of carboplatin (dosed to a target area under the concentration-time curve of 4.0 mg x min x mL[-1]). Treatment-naive patients tolerated high paclitaxel doses (270 mg/m2) with carboplatin (dosed to a target area under the curve of 4.5 mg x min x mL[-1]) without granulocyte colony-stimulating factor support. Twenty-three patients (including previously treated and untreated) with non-small cell lung cancer were entered at a variety of paclitaxel doses in the phase I studies. At 100 to 205 mg/m2 paclitaxel, none of nine treated patients responded; at 230 to 290 mg/m2, four (29%) of 14 responded. In the phase II study of paclitaxel 250 mg/m2 in previously untreated patients with small cell lung cancer, two of five evaluable patients with extensive-stage disease have shown a partial response. In a preliminary analysis of the pharmacodynamics of paclitaxel in relation to neurotoxicity (dose limiting in two of three phase I studies), neurotoxicity correlated with the total dose of paclitaxel, the area under the curve, and the peak paclitaxel concentration, but not with the length of time plasma paclitaxel levels remained above 0.05 micromol/L. These correlations were not strong, however, and analysis of these data is ongoing.

  18. Efficacy and Safety Outcomes in Patients With Advanced Melanoma Who Discontinued Treatment With Nivolumab and Ipilimumab Because of Adverse Events: A Pooled Analysis of Randomized Phase II and III Trials.

    PubMed

    Schadendorf, Dirk; Wolchok, Jedd D; Hodi, F Stephen; Chiarion-Sileni, Vanna; Gonzalez, Rene; Rutkowski, Piotr; Grob, Jean-Jacques; Cowey, C Lance; Lao, Christopher D; Chesney, Jason; Robert, Caroline; Grossmann, Kenneth; McDermott, David; Walker, Dana; Bhore, Rafia; Larkin, James; Postow, Michael A

    2017-12-01

    Purpose Approximately 40% of patients with advanced melanoma who received nivolumab combined with ipilimumab in clinical trials discontinued treatment because of adverse events (AEs). We conducted a retrospective analysis to assess the efficacy and safety of nivolumab plus ipilimumab in patients who discontinued treatment because of AEs. Methods Data were pooled from phase II and III trials of patients who received nivolumab 1 mg/kg plus ipilimumab 3 mg/kg, every 3 weeks for four doses, followed by nivolumab monotherapy 3 mg/kg every 2 weeks (N = 409). Efficacy was assessed in all randomly assigned patients who discontinued because of AEs during the induction phase (n = 96) and in those who did not discontinue because of AEs (n = 233). Safety was assessed in treated patients who discontinued because of AEs (n = 176) at any time and in those who did not discontinue because of AEs (n = 231). Results At a minimum follow-up of 18 months, median progression-free survival was 8.4 months for patients who discontinued treatment because of AEs during the induction phase and 10.8 months for patients who did not discontinue because of AEs ( P = .97). Median overall survival had not been reached in either group ( P = .23). The objective response rate was 58.3% for patients who discontinued because of AEs during the induction phase and 50.2% for patients who did not discontinue. The vast majority of grade 3 or 4 AEs occurred during the induction phase, with most resolving after appropriate management. Conclusion Efficacy outcomes seemed similar between patients who discontinued nivolumab plus ipilimumab treatment because of AEs during the induction phase and those who did not discontinue because of AEs. Therefore, even after discontinuation, many patients may continue to derive benefit from combination therapy.

  19. Efficacy and Safety Outcomes in Patients With Advanced Melanoma Who Discontinued Treatment With Nivolumab and Ipilimumab Because of Adverse Events: A Pooled Analysis of Randomized Phase II and III Trials

    PubMed Central

    Schadendorf, Dirk; Wolchok, Jedd D.; Hodi, F. Stephen; Chiarion-Sileni, Vanna; Gonzalez, Rene; Rutkowski, Piotr; Grob, Jean-Jacques; Cowey, C. Lance; Lao, Christopher D.; Chesney, Jason; Robert, Caroline; Grossmann, Kenneth; McDermott, David; Walker, Dana; Bhore, Rafia; Larkin, James

    2017-01-01

    Purpose Approximately 40% of patients with advanced melanoma who received nivolumab combined with ipilimumab in clinical trials discontinued treatment because of adverse events (AEs). We conducted a retrospective analysis to assess the efficacy and safety of nivolumab plus ipilimumab in patients who discontinued treatment because of AEs. Methods Data were pooled from phase II and III trials of patients who received nivolumab 1 mg/kg plus ipilimumab 3 mg/kg, every 3 weeks for four doses, followed by nivolumab monotherapy 3 mg/kg every 2 weeks (N = 409). Efficacy was assessed in all randomly assigned patients who discontinued because of AEs during the induction phase (n = 96) and in those who did not discontinue because of AEs (n = 233). Safety was assessed in treated patients who discontinued because of AEs (n = 176) at any time and in those who did not discontinue because of AEs (n = 231). Results At a minimum follow-up of 18 months, median progression-free survival was 8.4 months for patients who discontinued treatment because of AEs during the induction phase and 10.8 months for patients who did not discontinue because of AEs (P = .97). Median overall survival had not been reached in either group (P = .23). The objective response rate was 58.3% for patients who discontinued because of AEs during the induction phase and 50.2% for patients who did not discontinue. The vast majority of grade 3 or 4 AEs occurred during the induction phase, with most resolving after appropriate management. Conclusion Efficacy outcomes seemed similar between patients who discontinued nivolumab plus ipilimumab treatment because of AEs during the induction phase and those who did not discontinue because of AEs. Therefore, even after discontinuation, many patients may continue to derive benefit from combination therapy. PMID:28841387

  20. Characterization of the Igf-II Binding Site of the IGF-II/MAN-6-P Receptor Extracellular Domain.

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Garmroudi, Farideh

    1995-01-01

    In mammals, insulin-like growth factor II (IGF -II) and glycoproteins bearing the mannose 6-phosphate (Man -6-P) recognition marker bind with high affinity to the same receptor. The functional consequences of IGF-II binding to the receptor at the cell surface are not clear. In these studies, we sought to broaden our understanding of the functional regions of the receptor regarding its IGF -II binding site. The IGF-II binding/cross-linking domain of the IGF-II/Man-6-P receptor was mapped by sequencing receptor fragments covalently attached to IGF-II. Purified rat placental or bovine liver receptors were affinity-labeled, with ^{125}I-IGF-II and digested with endoproteinase Glu-C. Analysis of digests by gel electrophoresis revealed a major radiolabeled band of 18 kDa, which was purified by gel filtration chromatography followed by reverse-phase HPLC and electroblotting. Sequence analysis revealed that, the peptide S(H)VNSXPMF, located within extracellular repeat 10 and beginning with serine 1488 of the bovine receptor, was the best candidate for the IGF-II cross-linked peptide. These data indicated that residues within repeats 10-11 were important for IGF -II binding. To define the location of the IGF-II binding site further, a nested set of six human receptor cDNA constructs was designed to produce epitope-tagged fusion proteins encompassing the region between repeats 8 and 11 of the human IGF-II/Man-6-P receptor extracellular domain. These truncated receptors were transiently expressed in COS-7 cells, immunoprecipitated and analyzed for their abilities to bind and cross-link to IGF-II. All of the constructs were capable of binding/cross-linking to IGF-II, except for the 9.0-11 construct. Displacement curve analysis indicated that the truncated receptors were approximately equivalent in IGF-II binding affinity, but were of 5- to 10-fold lower affinity than full-length receptors. Sequencing of the 9.0-11 construct indicated the presence of a point mutation substituting threonine for isoleucine at position 1621, which is located in the N-terminal half of repeat 11, and was found to abrogate IGF-II binding. Collectively, our work indicates that repeat 11 of the IGF-II/Man-6-P receptor's extracellular domain encompasses the elements both for binding and cross-linking to IGF-II.

  1. GeoGIS : phase II.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2009-12-01

    A new web-based geotechnical Geographic Information System (GeoGIS) was developed and tested for the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) during Phase II of this research project. This web-based system stores geotechnical information about tr...

  2. Applied Meteorology Unit (AMU) Quarterly Report - Fourth Quarter FY-09

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bauman, William; Crawford, Winifred; Barrett, Joe; Watson, Leela; Wheeler, Mark

    2009-01-01

    This report summarizes the Applied Meteorology Unit (AMU) activities for the fourth quarter of Fiscal Year 2009 (July - September 2009). Tasks reports include: (1) Peak Wind Tool for User Launch Commit Criteria (LCC), (2) Objective Lightning Probability Tool. Phase III, (3) Peak Wind Tool for General Forecasting. Phase II, (4) Update and Maintain Advanced Regional Prediction System (ARPS) Data Analysis System (ADAS), (5) Verify MesoNAM Performance (6) develop a Graphical User Interface to update selected parameters for the Hybrid Single-Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory (HYSPLlT)

  3. Life cycle environmental performance of renewable building materials in the context of residential construction : phase II research report: an extension to the 2005 phase I research report. Module C, Life-cycle inventory of hardwood lumber manufacturing in the Northeast and North Central United States.

    Treesearch

    Richard Bergman; Scott A. Bowe

    2008-01-01

    The goal of this study was to find the environmental impact of hardwood lumber production through a gate-to-gate Life-Cycle Inventory (LCI) on hardwood sawmills in the northeast and northcentral (NE/NC) United States. Primary mill data was collected per CORRIM Research Guidelines (CORRIM 2001). Life-cycle analysis is beyond the scope of the study.

  4. 75 FR 4894 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; National Securities Clearing Corporation; Notice of Filing and...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-01-29

    ... activity.\\5\\ There will also be an increase in the monthly fee for the mutual fund Profile Phase II Service.... Profile Phase I transmits mutual fund price and rate information. Profile Phase II stores data elements such as accumulation, breakpoints, and commission eligibility that relate to mutual fund processing...

  5. DEMONSTRATION OF FUEL CELLS TO RECOVER ENERGY FROM LANDFILL GAS: PHASE II. PRETREATMENT SYSTEM PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENT

    EPA Science Inventory

    The report describes Phase II of a demonstration of the utilization of commercial phosphoric acid fuel cells to recover energy from landfill gas. This phase consisted primarily of the construction and testing of a Gas Pretreatment Unit (GPU) whose function is to remove those impu...

  6. Characterization of unpaved road condition through the use of remote sensing project - phase II, deliverable 8-D: final report.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2016-03-07

    Building on the success of developing a UAV based unpaved road assessment system in Phase I, the project team was awarded a Phase II project by the USDOT to focus on outreach and implementation. The project team added Valerie Lefler of Integrated Glo...

  7. A Reliability Simulator for Radiation-Hard Microelectronics Development

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1991-07-01

    1 3.0 PHASE II WORK PLANS ................................................................ 2... plan . The correlation experimental details including the devices utilized, the hot-carrier stressing and the wafer-level radiation correlation procedure...channel devices, and a new lifetime extrapolation method is demonstrated for p-channel devices. 3.0 PHASE II WORK PLANS The Phase 1I program consisted of

  8. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Rouxelin, Pascal Nicolas; Strydom, Gerhard

    Best-estimate plus uncertainty analysis of reactors is replacing the traditional conservative (stacked uncertainty) method for safety and licensing analysis. To facilitate uncertainty analysis applications, a comprehensive approach and methodology must be developed and applied. High temperature gas cooled reactors (HTGRs) have several features that require techniques not used in light-water reactor analysis (e.g., coated-particle design and large graphite quantities at high temperatures). The International Atomic Energy Agency has therefore launched the Coordinated Research Project on HTGR Uncertainty Analysis in Modeling to study uncertainty propagation in the HTGR analysis chain. The benchmark problem defined for the prismatic design is represented bymore » the General Atomics Modular HTGR 350. The main focus of this report is the compilation and discussion of the results obtained for various permutations of Exercise I 2c and the use of the cross section data in Exercise II 1a of the prismatic benchmark, which is defined as the last and first steps of the lattice and core simulation phases, respectively. The report summarizes the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) best estimate results obtained for Exercise I 2a (fresh single-fuel block), Exercise I 2b (depleted single-fuel block), and Exercise I 2c (super cell) in addition to the first results of an investigation into the cross section generation effects for the super-cell problem. The two dimensional deterministic code known as the New ESC based Weighting Transport (NEWT) included in the Standardized Computer Analyses for Licensing Evaluation (SCALE) 6.1.2 package was used for the cross section evaluation, and the results obtained were compared to the three dimensional stochastic SCALE module KENO VI. The NEWT cross section libraries were generated for several permutations of the current benchmark super-cell geometry and were then provided as input to the Phase II core calculation of the stand alone neutronics Exercise II 1a. The steady state core calculations were simulated with the INL coupled-code system known as the Parallel and Highly Innovative Simulation for INL Code System (PHISICS) and the system thermal-hydraulics code known as the Reactor Excursion and Leak Analysis Program (RELAP) 5 3D using the nuclear data libraries previously generated with NEWT. It was observed that significant differences in terms of multiplication factor and neutron flux exist between the various permutations of the Phase I super-cell lattice calculations. The use of these cross section libraries only leads to minor changes in the Phase II core simulation results for fresh fuel but shows significantly larger discrepancies for spent fuel cores. Furthermore, large incongruities were found between the SCALE NEWT and KENO VI results for the super cells, and while some trends could be identified, a final conclusion on this issue could not yet be reached. This report will be revised in mid 2016 with more detailed analyses of the super-cell problems and their effects on the core models, using the latest version of SCALE (6.2). The super-cell models seem to show substantial improvements in terms of neutron flux as compared to single-block models, particularly at thermal energies.« less

  9. Objective Lightning Probability Forecasting for Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Phase III

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Crawford, Winifred C.

    2010-01-01

    The AMU created new logistic regression equations in an effort to increase the skill of the Objective Lightning Forecast Tool developed in Phase II (Lambert 2007). One equation was created for each of five sub-seasons based on the daily lightning climatology instead of by month as was done in Phase II. The assumption was that these equations would capture the physical attributes that contribute to thunderstorm formation more so than monthly equations. However, the SS values in Section 5.3.2 showed that the Phase III equations had worse skill than the Phase II equations and, therefore, will not be transitioned into operations. The current Objective Lightning Forecast Tool developed in Phase II will continue to be used operationally in MIDDS. Three warm seasons were added to the Phase II dataset to increase the POR from 17 to 20 years (1989-2008), and data for October were included since the daily climatology showed lightning occurrence extending into that month. None of the three methods tested to determine the start of the subseason in each individual year were able to discern the start dates with consistent accuracy. Therefore, the start dates were determined by the daily climatology shown in Figure 10 and were the same in every year. The procedures used to create the predictors and develop the equations were identical to those in Phase II. The equations were made up of one to three predictors. TI and the flow regime probabilities were the top predictors followed by 1-day persistence, then VT and Ll. Each equation outperformed four other forecast methods by 7-57% using the verification dataset, but the new equations were outperformed by the Phase II equations in every sub-season. The reason for the degradation may be due to the fact that the same sub-season start dates were used in every year. It is likely there was overlap of sub-season days at the beginning and end of each defined sub-season in each individual year, which could very well affect equation performance.

  10. Phase I to II cross-induction of xenobiotic metabolizing enzymes: a feedforward control mechanism for potential hormetic responses.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Qiang; Pi, Jingbo; Woods, Courtney G; Andersen, Melvin E

    2009-06-15

    Hormetic responses to xenobiotic exposure likely occur as a result of overcompensation by the homeostatic control systems operating in biological organisms. However, the mechanisms underlying overcompensation that leads to hormesis are still unclear. A well-known homeostatic circuit in the cell is the gene induction network comprising phase I, II and III metabolizing enzymes, which are responsible for xenobiotic detoxification, and in many cases, bioactivation. By formulating a differential equation-based computational model, we investigated in this study whether hormesis can arise from the operation of this gene/enzyme network. The model consists of two feedback and one feedforward controls. With the phase I negative feedback control, xenobiotic X activates nuclear receptors to induce cytochrome P450 enzyme, which bioactivates X into a reactive metabolite X'. With the phase II negative feedback control, X' activates transcription factor Nrf2 to induce phase II enzymes such as glutathione S-transferase and glutamate cysteine ligase, etc., which participate in a set of reactions that lead to the metabolism of X' into a less toxic conjugate X''. The feedforward control involves phase I to II cross-induction, in which the parent chemical X can also induce phase II enzymes directly through the nuclear receptor and indirectly through transcriptionally upregulating Nrf2. As a result of the active feedforward control, a steady-state hormetic relationship readily arises between the concentrations of the reactive metabolite X' and the extracellular parent chemical X to which the cell is exposed. The shape of dose-response evolves over time from initially monotonically increasing to J-shaped at the final steady state-a temporal sequence consistent with adaptation-mediated hormesis. The magnitude of the hormetic response is enhanced by increases in the feedforward gain, but attenuated by increases in the bioactivation or phase II feedback loop gains. Our study suggests a possibly common mechanism for the hormetic responses observed with many mutagens/carcinogens whose activities require bioactivation by phase I enzymes. Feedforward control, often operating in combination with negative feedback regulation in a homeostatic system, may be a general control theme responsible for steady-state hormesis.

  11. Multicomutation flow system for manganese speciation by solid phase extraction and flame atomic absorption spectrometry

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tobiasz, Anna; Sołtys, Monika; Kurys, Ewa; Domagała, Karolina; Dudek-Adamska, Danuta; Walas, Stanisław

    2017-08-01

    In the paper an application of solid phase extraction technique for speciation analysis of manganese in water samples with the use of flame atomic absorption spectrometry is presented. Two types of sorbents, activated silica gel and Dowex 1 × 4, were used respectively for simultaneously Mn2 + and MnO42 - retention and preconcentration. The whole procedure was realized in multicomutation flow system. Different conditions like: type and concentration of eluent, sample pH and loading time were tested during the study. Under appropriate conditions, it was possible to obtained enrichment factors of 20 and 16 for Mn(II) and Mn(VII), respectively. Precision of the procedure was close to 4% (measured as relative standard deviation), whereas the detection limit (3σ) was 1.4 μg·L- 1 for Mn(II) and 4.8 μg·L- 1 for Mn(VII).

  12. Enclomiphene citrate stimulates testosterone production while preventing oligospermia: a randomized phase II clinical trial comparing topical testosterone.

    PubMed

    Wiehle, Ronald D; Fontenot, Gregory K; Wike, Jenny; Hsu, Kuang; Nydell, Jennifer; Lipshultz, Larry

    2014-09-01

    To determine the effect of enclomiphene citrate in men with secondary hypogonadism. Phase II clinical trial. Community dwelling men making visits to physician offices. Men with secondary hypogonadism. Oral administration of enclomiphene citrate or 1% topical T gel. Luteinizing hormone, FSH, T, and semen analysis. Treatment with enclomiphene citrate resulted in increased morning serum T, E2, and LH levels similar to those obtained with a topical T gel in men with secondary hypogonadism. Follicle-stimulating hormone and LH were increased with enclomiphene, and sperm counts were conserved. Enclomiphene citrate reverses the two hallmarks of secondary hypogonadism, namely, low serum total T and low or inappropriately normal LH while preserving sperm production. NCT01270841 (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT01270841). Copyright © 2014 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Rapid determination of ions by combined solid-phase extraction--diffuse reflectance spectroscopy

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Fritz, James S.; Arena, Matteo P.; Steiner, Steven A.; Porter, Marc D.

    2003-01-01

    We introduce colorimetric solid-phase extraction (C-SPE) for the rapid determination of selected ions. This new technique links the exhaustive concentration of an analyte by SPE onto a membrane disk surface for quantitative measurement with a hand-held diffuse reflectance spectrometer. The concentration/measurement procedure is complete in approximately 1 min and can be performed almost anywhere. This method has been used to monitor iodine and iodide in spacecraft water in the 0.1-5.0 ppm range and silver(I) in the range of 5.0-1000 microg/l. Applications to the trace analysis of copper(II), nickel(II), iron(III) and chromium(VI) are described. Studies on the mechanism of extraction showed that impregnation of the disk with a surfactant as well as a complexing reagent results in uptake of additional water, which markedly improves the extraction efficiency.

  14. Solid-phase extraction of heavy metal ions on bucky tubes disc in natural water and herbal plant samples.

    PubMed

    Soylak, Mustafa; Unsal, Yunus Emre

    2011-10-01

    A preconcentration-separation procedure has been established based on solid-phase extraction of Fe(III) and Pb(II) on bucky tubes (BTs) disc. Fe(III) and Pb(II) ions were quantitatively recovered at pH 6. The influences of the analytical parameters like sample volume, flow rates on the recoveries of analytes on BT disc were investigated. The effects of co-existing ions on the recoveries were also studied. The detection limits for iron and lead were found 1.6 and 4.9 μg L⁻¹, respectively. The validation of the presented method was checked by the analysis of TMDA-51.3 fortified water certified reference material. The presented procedure was successfully applied to the separation-preconcentration and determination of iron and lead content of some natural water and herbal plant samples from Kayseri, Turkey.

  15. Halloysite Nanotubes as a New Adsorbent for Solid Phase Extraction and Spectrophotometric Determination of Iron in Water and Food Samples

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Samadi, A.; Amjadi, M.

    2016-07-01

    Halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) have been introduced as a new solid phase extraction adsorbent for preconcentration of iron(II) as a complex with 2,2-bipyridine. The cationic complex is effectively adsorbed on the sorbent in the pH range of 3.5-6.0 and efficiently desorbed by trichloroacetic acid. The eluted complex has a strong absorption around 520 nm, which was used for determination of Fe(II). After optimizing extraction conditions, the linear range of the calibration graph was 5.0-500 μg/L with a detection limit of 1.3 μg/L. The proposed method was successfully applied for the determination of trace iron in various water and food samples, and the accuracy was assessed through the recovery experiments and analysis of a certified reference material (NIST 1643e).

  16. Thermal degradation of Shredded Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunches (SOPEFB) embedded with Cobalt catalyst by Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Alias, R.; Hamid, N. H.; Jaapar, J.; Musa, M.; Alwi, H.; Halim, K. H. Ku

    2018-03-01

    Thermal behavior and decomposition kinetics of shredded oil palm empty fruit bunches (SOPEFB) were investigated in this study by using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The SOPEFB were analyzed under conditions of temperature 30 °C to 900 °C with nitrogen gas flow at 50 ml/min. The SOPEFB were embedded with cobalt (II) nitrate solution with concentration 5%, 10%, 15% and 20%. The TG/DTG curves shows the degradation behavior of SOPEFB following with char production for each heating rate and each concentration of cobalt catalyst. Thermal degradation occurred in three phases, water drying phase, decomposition of hemicellulose and cellulose phase, and lignin decomposition phase. The kinetic equation with relevant parameters described the activation energy required for thermal degradation at the temperature regions of 200 °C to 350 °C. Activation energy (E) for different heating rate with SOPEFB embedded with different concentration of cobalt catalyst showing that the lowest E required was at SOPEFB with 20% concentration of cobalt catalyst..

  17. A simple two-stage design for quantitative responses with application to a study in diabetic neuropathic pain.

    PubMed

    Whitehead, John; Valdés-Márquez, Elsa; Lissmats, Agneta

    2009-01-01

    Two-stage designs offer substantial advantages for early phase II studies. The interim analysis following the first stage allows the study to be stopped for futility, or more positively, it might lead to early progression to the trials needed for late phase II and phase III. If the study is to continue to its second stage, then there is an opportunity for a revision of the total sample size. Two-stage designs have been implemented widely in oncology studies in which there is a single treatment arm and patient responses are binary. In this paper the case of two-arm comparative studies in which responses are quantitative is considered. This setting is common in therapeutic areas other than oncology. It will be assumed that observations are normally distributed, but that there is some doubt concerning their standard deviation, motivating the need for sample size review. The work reported has been motivated by a study in diabetic neuropathic pain, and the development of the design for that trial is described in detail. Copyright 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  18. Centrifugal slurry pump wear and hydraulic studies. Phase II report. Experimental studies

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Mistry, D.; Cooper, P.; Biswas, C.

    1983-01-01

    This report describes the work performed by Ingersoll-Rand Research, Inc., under Phase II, Experimental Studies for the contract entitled, Centrifugal Slurry Pump Wear and Hydraulic Studies. This work was carried out for the US Department of Energy under Contract No. DE-AC-82PC50035. The basic development approach pursued this phase is presented, followed by a discussion on wear relationships. The analysis, which resulted in the development of a mathematical wear model relating pump life to some of the key design and operating parameters, is presented. The results, observations, and conclusions of the experimental investigation on small scale pumps that led to themore » selected design features for the prototype pump are discussed. The material investigation was performed at IRRI, ORNL and Battelle. The rationale for selecting the materials for testing, the test methods and apparatus used, and the results obtained are presented followed by a discussion on materials for a prototype pump. In addition, the prototype pump test facility description, as well as the related design and equipment details, are presented. 20 references, 53 figures, 13 tables.« less

  19. Self-Care Strategies among Chinese Adolescent Girls with Dysmenorrhea: A Qualitative Study.

    PubMed

    Wong, Cho Lee; Ip, Wan Yim; Lam, Lai Wah

    2016-08-01

    Little is known about how Chinese adolescent girls manage dysmenorrhea. This study aims to explore self-care strategies among Chinese adolescent girls with dysmenorrhea. The study uses a mixed methods design with two phases: a cross-sectional survey in phase I and semistructured interviews in phase II. This paper reports phase II. In line with the phase I findings, 28 adolescent girls with different characteristics (high or low levels of self-care behavior and pain intensity, who did or did not self-medicate, and who had or had not received menstrual education) were recruited for interviews. Content analysis was used for data analysis. Four categories emerged from the data: lifestyle changes, symptom management, communicating dysmenorrhea with others, and seeking medical advice. Girls selected their diets carefully and reduced physical activity during menstruation to avoid aggravating symptoms. Heat therapy commonly was employed for symptom management. A few girls self-medicated to obtain immediate relief from pain, but the majority expressed reservations about using medication because they worried about dependence and side effects. Some girls communicated dysmenorrhea with their family and friends, but the majority did not seek medical advice. The present study showed that girls employed various self-care strategies for dysmenorrhea, including some strategies stemming from traditional Chinese medicine. The findings revealed menstrual etiquette among Chinese adolescent girls with dysmenorrhea, and demonstrated that self-medication was not part of most girls' self-care. Understanding the self-care strategies of these girls is important, as it can help nurses develop a culturally-specific intervention to promote self-care among adolescent girls with dysmenorrhea. Copyright © 2016 American Society for Pain Management Nursing. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  20. Statistical controversies in clinical research: building the bridge to phase II-efficacy estimation in dose-expansion cohorts.

    PubMed

    Boonstra, P S; Braun, T M; Taylor, J M G; Kidwell, K M; Bellile, E L; Daignault, S; Zhao, L; Griffith, K A; Lawrence, T S; Kalemkerian, G P; Schipper, M J

    2017-07-01

    Regulatory agencies and others have expressed concern about the uncritical use of dose expansion cohorts (DECs) in phase I oncology trials. Nonetheless, by several metrics-prevalence, size, and number-their popularity is increasing. Although early efficacy estimation in defined populations is a common primary endpoint of DECs, the types of designs best equipped to identify efficacy signals have not been established. We conducted a simulation study of six phase I design templates with multiple DECs: three dose-assignment/adjustment mechanisms multiplied by two analytic approaches for estimating efficacy after the trial is complete. We also investigated the effect of sample size and interim futility analysis on trial performance. Identifying populations in which the treatment is efficacious (true positives) and weeding out inefficacious treatment/populations (true negatives) are competing goals in these trials. Thus, we estimated true and false positive rates for each design. Adaptively updating the MTD during the DEC improved true positive rates by 8-43% compared with fixing the dose during the DEC phase while maintaining false positive rates. Inclusion of an interim futility analysis decreased the number of patients treated under inefficacious DECs without hurting performance. A substantial gain in efficiency is obtainable using a design template that statistically models toxicity and efficacy against dose level during expansion. Design choices for dose expansion should be motivated by and based upon expected performance. Similar to the common practice in single-arm phase II trials, cohort sample sizes should be justified with respect to their primary aim and include interim analyses to allow for early stopping. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society for Medical Oncology. All rights reserved. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  1. Environment and Health in Children Day Care Centres (ENVIRH) - Study rationale and protocol.

    PubMed

    Araújo-Martins, J; Carreiro Martins, P; Viegas, J; Aelenei, D; Cano, M M; Teixeira, J P; Paixão, P; Papoila, A L; Leiria-Pinto, P; Pedro, C; Rosado-Pinto, J; Annesi-Maesano, I; Neuparth, N

    2014-01-01

    Indoor air quality (IAQ) is considered an important determinant of human health. The association between exposure to volatile organic compounds, particulate matter, house dust mite, molds and bacteria in day care centers (DCC) is not completely clear. The aim of this project was to study these effects. This study comprised two phases. Phase I included an evaluation of 45 DCCs (25 from Lisbon and 20 from Oporto, targeting 5161 children). In this phase, building characteristics, indoor CO2 and air temperature/relative humidity, were assessed. A children's respiratory health questionnaire derived from the ISAAC (International Study on Asthma and Allergies in Children) was also distributed. Phase II encompassed two evaluations and included 20 DCCs selected from phase I after a cluster analysis (11 from Lisbon and 9 from Oporto, targeting 2287 children). In this phase, data on ventilation, IAQ, thermal comfort parameters, respiratory and allergic health, airway inflammation biomarkers, respiratory virus infection patterns and parental and child stress were collected. In Phase I, building characteristics, occupant behavior and ventilation surrogates were collected from all DCCs. The response rate of the questionnaire was 61.7% (3186 children). Phase II included 1221 children. Association results between DCC characteristics, IAQ and health outcomes will be provided in order to support recommendations on IAQ and children's health. A building ventilation model will also be developed. This paper outlines methods that might be implemented by other investigators conducting studies on the association between respiratory health and indoor air quality at DCC. Copyright © 2013 Sociedade Portuguesa de Pneumologia. Published by Elsevier España. All rights reserved.

  2. Acquisition and Tracking Behavior of Phase-Locked Loops

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Viterbi, A. J.

    1958-01-01

    Phase-locked or APC loops have found increasing applications in recent years as tracking filters, synchronizing devices, and narrowband FM discriminators. Considerable work has been performed to determine the noise-squelching properties of the loop when it is operating in or near phase lock and is functioning as a linear coherent detector. However, insufficient consideration has been devoted to the non-linear behavior of the loop when it is out of lock and in the process of pulling in. Experimental evidence has indicated that there is a strong tendency for phase-locked loops to achieve lock under most circumstances. However, the analysis which has appeared in the literature iis limited to the acquisition of a constant frequency reference signal with only one phase-locked loop filter configuration. This work represents an investigation of frequency acquisition properties of phase-locked loops for a variety of reference-signal behavior and loop configurations

  3. Anal Cancer: An Examination of Radiotherapy Strategies

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Glynne-Jones, Rob; Lim, Faye

    2011-04-01

    The Radiation Therapy Oncology Group 9811, ACCORD-03, and ACT II Phase III trials in anal cancer showed no benefit for cisplatin-based induction and maintenance chemotherapy, or radiation dose-escalation >59 Gy. This review examines the efficacy and toxicity of chemoradiation (CRT) in anal cancer, and discusses potential alternative radiotherapy strategies. The evidence for the review was compiled from randomized and nonrandomized trials of radiation therapy and CRT. A total of 103 retrospective/observational studies, 4 Phase I/II studies, 16 Phase II prospective studies, 2 randomized Phase II studies, and 6 Phase III trials of radiotherapy or chemoradiation were identified. There are nomore » meta-analyses based on individual patient data. A 'one-size-fits-all' approach for all stages of anal cancer is inappropriate. Early T1 tumors are probably currently overtreated, whereas T3/T4 lesions might merit escalation of treatment. Intensity-modulated radiotherapy or the integration of biological therapy may play a role in future.« less

  4. Structures and phase transitions in a new ferroelectric -- pyridinium chlorochromate -- studied by X-ray diffraction, DSC and dielectric methods.

    PubMed

    Małuszyńska, Hanna; Czarnecki, Piotr; Czarnecka, Anna; Pająk, Zdzisław

    2012-04-01

    Pyridinium chlorochromate, [C(5)H(5)NH](+)[ClCrO(3)](-) (hereafter referred to as PyClCrO(3)), was studied by X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and dielectric methods. Studies reveal three reversible phase transitions at 346, 316 and 170 K with the following phase sequence: R ̅3m (I) → R3m (II) → Cm (III) → Cc (IV), c' = 2c. PyClCrO(3) is the first pyridinium salt in which all four phases have been successfully characterized by a single-crystal X-ray diffraction method. Structural results together with dielectric and calorimetric studies allow the classification of the two intermediate phases (II) and (III) as ferroelectric with the Curie point at 346 K, and the lowest phase (IV) as most probably ferroelectric. The ferroelectric hysteresis loop was observed only in phase (III). The high ionic conductivity hindered its observation in phase (II).

  5. Wavelet analysis of stellar differential rotation. III. The Sun in white light

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hempelmann, A.

    2003-02-01

    Future space projects like KEPLER will deliver a vast quantity of high precision light curves of stars. This paper describes a test concerning the observability of rotation and even differential rotation of slowly rotating stars from such data. Two published light curves of solar total irradiance measures are investigated: the Nimbus-7 Earth Radiation Budget (ERB) observations between 1978 and 1993 and the Active Cavity Radiometer Irradiance Monitor I (ACRIM I) measurements between 1980 and 1989. Light curve analysis show that oscillations on time-scales comparable to solar rotation but of a complex pattern are visible. Neither Fourier analysis nor time-frequency Wavelet analysis yield the true rotation period during the more active phases of the solar cycle. The true rotation period dominates only for a short time during solar minimum. In the light of this study even space-born broad band photometry may turn out an inappropriate instrument to study stellar butterfly diagrams of stars rotating as slow as the Sun. However, it was shown in Papers I and II of this series that chromospheric tracers like Lyman alpha , Mg II h+k and CaII H+K are appropriate instruments to perform this task.

  6. Job Aid Manuals for Phase 2-DESIGN of the Instructional Systems Development Model

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1980-05-01

    and sources of this data should be part of the overall Job Analysis Plan. I 61 L ... ............ ..6 WHAT ARE SOME SOURCES OF JOB SIGNIFICANT DATA...SECTION II ’ f .330- S*15’- /PAW $i~ii. TEIIMTJAL IkAHIN (C 11 IVE . .... .. AA t fi -twill Ailf. fe’o- point A +o pom14 Ji - & map, cemoa9j sund...Leaqrr AIrloesr displayed by the Learnrrq Pyfamd. ,derrfie the An"lIys on Task lemei hdedarchy Olud,,iormole to rrrdleel ut skds bn k-ro edes req,.,ed l

  7. DoE Phase II SBIR: Spectrally-Assisted Vehicle Tracking

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Villeneuve, Pierre V.

    2013-02-28

    The goal of this Phase II SBIR is to develop a prototype software package to demonstrate spectrally-aided vehicle tracking performance. The primary application is to demonstrate improved target vehicle tracking performance in complex environments where traditional spatial tracker systems may show reduced performance. Example scenarios in Figure 1 include a) the target vehicle obscured by a large structure for an extended period of time, or b), the target engaging in extreme maneuvers amongst other civilian vehicles. The target information derived from spatial processing is unable to differentiate between the green versus the red vehicle. Spectral signature exploitation enables comparison ofmore » new candidate targets with existing track signatures. The ambiguity in this confusing scenario is resolved by folding spectral analysis results into each target nomination and association processes. Figure 3 shows a number of example spectral signatures from a variety of natural and man-made materials. The work performed over the two-year effort was divided into three general areas: algorithm refinement, software prototype development, and prototype performance demonstration. The tasks performed under this Phase II to accomplish the program goals were as follows: 1. Acquire relevant vehicle target datasets to support prototype. 2. Refine algorithms for target spectral feature exploitation. 3. Implement a prototype multi-hypothesis target tracking software package. 4. Demonstrate and quantify tracking performance using relevant data.« less

  8. 47 CFR 90.765 - Licenses term for Phase II licenses.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 220-222 MHz Band Policies Governing the Licensing and Use of Phase II Ea, Regional and Nationwide...(a), EA and Regional licenses authorized pursuant to § 90.761, and non-nationwide licenses authorized...

  9. 47 CFR 90.765 - Licenses term for Phase II licenses.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... 220-222 MHz Band Policies Governing the Licensing and Use of Phase II Ea, Regional and Nationwide...(a), EA and Regional licenses authorized pursuant to § 90.761, and non-nationwide licenses authorized...

  10. Planning Targets for Phase II Watershed Implementation Plans

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    On August 1, 2011, EPA provided planning targets for nitrogen, phosphorus and sediment for the Phase II Watershed Implementation Plans (WIPs) of the Chesapeake Bay TMDL. This page provides the letters containing those planning targets.

  11. Sears Point Tidal Marsh Restoration Project: Phase II

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    Information about the SFBWQP Sears Point Tidal Marsh Restoration Project: Phase II, part of an EPA competitive grant program to improve SF Bay water quality focused on restoring impaired waters and enhancing aquatic resources.

  12. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Swanner, E. D.; Bayer, T.; Wu, W.

    In this study, we couple iron isotope analysis to microscopic and mineralogical investigation of iron speciation during circumneutral Fe(II) oxidation and Fe(III) precipitation with photosynthetically produced oxygen. In the presence of the cyanobacterium Synechococcus PCC 7002, aqueous Fe(II) (Fe(II) aq) is oxidized and precipitated as amorphous Fe(III) oxyhydroxide minerals (iron precipitates, Fe ppt), with distinct isotopic fractionation (ε 56Fe) values determined from fitting the δ 56Fe(II) aq (1.79‰ and 2.15‰) and the δ 56Fe ppt (2.44‰ and 2.98‰) data trends from two replicate experiments. Additional Fe(II) and Fe(III) phases were detected using microscopy and chemical extractions and likely represent Fe(II)more » and Fe(III) sorbed to minerals and cells. The iron desorbed with sodium acetate (FeNaAc) yielded heavier δ 56Fe compositions than Fe(II) aq. Modeling of the fractionation during Fe(III) sorption to cells and Fe(II) sorption to Feppt, combined with equilibration of sorbed iron and with Fe(II) aq using published fractionation factors, is consistent with our resulting δ 56FeNaAc. The δ 56Fe ppt data trend is inconsistent with complete equilibrium exchange with Fe(II)aq. Because of this and our detection of microbially excreted organics (e.g., exopolysaccharides) coating Feppt in our microscopic analysis, we suggest that electron and atom exchange is partially suppressed in this system by biologically produced organics. These results indicate that cyanobacteria influence the fate and composition of iron in sunlit environments via their role in Fe(II) oxidation through O 2 production, the capacity of their cell surfaces to sorb iron, and the interaction of secreted organics with Fe(III) minerals.« less

  13. Cognitive Task Analysis of En Route Air Traffic Control: Model Extension and Validation.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Redding, Richard E.; And Others

    Phase II of a project extended data collection and analytic procedures to develop a model of expertise and skill development for en route air traffic control (ATC). New data were collected by recording the Dynamic Simulator (DYSIM) performance of five experts with a work overload problem. Expert controllers were interviewed in depth for mental…

  14. Cognitive Models for Integrating Testing and Instruction, Phase II. Methodology Program.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Quellmalz, Edys S.; Shaha, Steven

    The potential of a cognitive model task analysis scheme (CMS) that specifies features of test problems shown by research to affect performance is explored. CMS describes the general skill area and the generic task or problem type. It elaborates features of the problem situation and required responses found by research to influence performance.…

  15. Final Report - Cloud-Based Management Platform for Distributed, Multi-Domain Networks

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Chowdhury, Pulak; Mukherjee, Biswanath

    2017-11-03

    In this Department of Energy (DOE) Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II project final report, Ennetix presents the development of a solution for end-to-end monitoring, analysis, and visualization of network performance for distributed networks. This solution benefits enterprises of all sizes, operators of distributed and federated networks, and service providers.

  16. A Comparative Analysis of Postsecondary Technical Education in Texas. Phase I, Volume II--Appendices.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Groves, Cecil L.; And Others

    In response to concerns of unnecessary duplication in programs offered by Texas community/junior colleges and the Texas State Technical College (TSTC) system, TSTC conducted an examination of curricula, enrollments, and outcomes for both systems. This document provides the second volume of the study, containing the data tables used to generate the…

  17. VizieR Online Data Catalog: GAMA. Stellar mass budget (Moffett+, 2016)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Moffett, A. J.; Lange, R.; Driver, S. P.; Robotham, A. S. G.; Kelvin, L. S.; Alpaslan, M.; Andrews, S. K.; Bland-Hawthorn, J.; Brough, S.; Cluver, M. E.; Colless, M.; Davies, L. J. M.; Holwerda, B. W.; Hopkins, A. M.; Kafle, P. R.; Liske, J.; Meyer, M.

    2018-04-01

    Using the recently expanded Galaxy and Mass Assembly (GAMA) survey phase II visual morphology sample and the large-scale bulge and disc decomposition analysis of Lange et al. (2016MNRAS.462.1470L), we derive new stellar mass function fits to galaxy spheroid and disc populations down to log(M*/Mȯ)=8. (1 data file).

  18. Operational Range Assessment Program (ORAP) Phase II Overview for Active Installations

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2011-05-01

    Dissolved Metals by EPA 1638M • Isotopic Uranium by EML A-01-R Mod  Sediment Analysis • None  Benthic Macroinvertebrates • Diversity Indices...Metals by EPA 200.8 • Dissolved Metals by EPA 200.8 (if turbid) • Isotopic Uranium by EML A-01- R Mod (if total U is > action limit) Groundwater

  19. California Verbal Learning Test-II performance in schizophrenia as a function of ascertainment strategy: comparing the first and second phases of the Consortium on the Genetics of Schizophrenia (COGS).

    PubMed

    Stone, William S; Mesholam-Gately, Raquelle I; Braff, David L; Calkins, Monica E; Freedman, Robert; Green, Michael F; Greenwood, Tiffany A; Gur, Raquel E; Gur, Ruben C; Lazzeroni, Laura C; Light, Gregory A; Nuechterlein, Keith H; Olincy, Ann; Radant, Allen D; Siever, Larry J; Silverman, Jeremy M; Sprock, Joyce; Sugar, Catherine A; Swerdlow, Neal R; Tsuang, Debby W; Tsuang, Ming T; Turetsky, Bruce I; Seidman, Larry J

    2015-04-01

    The first phase of the Consortium on the Genetics of Schizophrenia (COGS-1) showed performance deficits in learning and memory on the California Verbal Learning Test, Second Edition (CVLT-II) in individuals with schizophrenia (SZ), compared to healthy comparison subjects (HCS). A question is whether the COGS-1 study, which used a family study design (i.e. studying relatively intact families), yielded "milder" SZ phenotypes than those acquired subsequently in the COGS-2 case-control design that did not recruit unaffected family members. CVLT-II performance was compared for the COGS-1 and COGS-2 samples. Analyses focused on learning, recall and recognition variables, with age, gender and education as covariates. Analyses of COGS-2 data explored effects of additional covariates and moderating factors in CVLT-II performance. 324 SZ subjects and 510 HCS had complete CVLT-II and covariate data in COGS-1, while 1356 SZ and 1036 HCS had complete data in COGS-2. Except for recognition memory, analysis of covariance showed significantly worse performance in COGS-2 on all CVLT-II variables for SZ and HCS, and remained significant in the presence of the covariates. Performance in each of the 5 learning trials differed significantly. However, effect sizes comparing cases and controls were comparable across the two studies. COGS-2 analyses confirmed SZ performance deficits despite effects of multiple significant covariates and moderating factors. CVLT-II performance was worse in COGS-2 than in COGS-1 for both the SZ and the HCS in this large cohort, likely due to cohort effects. Demographically corrected data yield a consistent pattern of performance across the two studies in SZ. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  20. California Verbal Learning Test-II performance in schizophrenia as a function of ascertainment strategy: Comparing the first and second phases of the Consortium on the Genetics of Schizophrenia (COGS)

    PubMed Central

    Stone, William S.; Mesholam-Gately, Raquelle I.; Braff, David L.; Calkins, Monica E.; Freedman, Robert; Green, Michael F.; Greenwood, Tiffany A.; Gur, Raquel E.; Gur, Ruben C.; Lazzeroni, Laura C.; Light, Gregory A.; Nuechterlein, Keith H.; Olincy, Ann; Radant, Allen D.; Siever, Larry J.; Silverman, Jeremy M.; Sprock, Joyce; Sugar, Catherine A.; Swerdlow, Neal R.; Tsuang, Debby W.; Tsuang, Ming T.; Turetsky, Bruce I.; Seidman, Larry J.

    2018-01-01

    The first phase of the Consortium on the Genetics of Schizophrenia (COGS-1) showed performance deficits in learning and memory on the California Verbal Learning Test, Second Edition (CVLT-II) in individuals with schizophrenia (SZ), compared to healthy comparison subjects (HCS). A question is whether the COGS-1 study, which used a family study design (i.e. studying relatively intact families), yielded “milder” SZ phenotypes than those acquired subsequently in the COGS-2 case–control design that did not recruit unaffected family members. CVLT-II performance was compared for the COGS-1 and COGS-2 samples. Analyses focused on learning, recall and recognition variables, with age, gender and education as covariates. Analyses of COGS-2 data explored effects of additional covariates and moderating factors in CVLT-II performance. 324 SZ subjects and 510 HCS had complete CVLT-II and covariate data in COGS-1, while 1356 SZ and 1036 HCS had complete data in COGS-2. Except for recognition memory, analysis of covariance showed significantly worse performance in COGS-2 on all CVLT-II variables for SZ and HCS, and remained significant in the presence of the covariates. Performance in each of the 5 learning trials differed significantly. However, effect sizes comparing cases and controls were comparable across the two studies. COGS-2 analyses confirmed SZ performance deficits despite effects of multiple significant covariates and moderating factors. CVLT-II performance was worse in COGS-2 than in COGS-1 for both the SZ and the HCS in this large cohort, likely due to cohort effects. Demographically corrected data yield a consistent pattern of performance across the two studies in SZ. PMID:25497440

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