Diabetes and Wound Angiogenesis

PubMed Central

Okonkwo, Uzoagu A.; DiPietro, Luisa A.

2017-01-01

Diabetes Mellitus Type II (DM2) is a growing international health concern with no end in sight. Complications of DM2 involve a myriad of comorbidities including the serious complications of poor wound healing, chronic ulceration, and resultant limb amputation. In skin wound healing, which has definite, orderly phases, diabetes leads to improper function at all stages. While the etiology of chronic, non-healing diabetic wounds is multi-faceted, the progression to a non-healing phenotype is closely linked to poor vascular networks. This review focuses on diabetic wound healing, paying special attention to the aberrations that have been described in the proliferative, remodeling, and maturation phases of wound angiogenesis. Additionally, this review considers therapeutics that may offer promise to better wound healing outcomes. PMID:28671607

Venetoclax Yields Strong Responses in CLL.

PubMed

2016-02-01

Results from an international phase II study show that the investigational BCL2 inhibitor venetoclax is effective in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia and the chromosome 17p deletion, whose prognosis is particularly poor. Venetoclax yielded high and durable responses in this population, including several complete remissions. ©2016 American Association for Cancer Research.

Phase II trial of CH5424802 (alectinib hydrochloride) for recurrent or refractory ALK-positive anaplastic large cell lymphoma: study protocol for a non-randomized non-controlled trial.

PubMed

Nagai, Hirokazu; Fukano, Reiji; Sekimizu, Masahiro; Kada, Akiko; M Saito, Akiko; Asada, Ryuta; Mori, Tetsuya

2017-08-01

Currently, a standard therapy has not been established for recurrent or refractory anaplastic lymphoma kinase-positive anaplastic large cell lymphoma. While there are many treatment options, such as hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, patients with resistant disease to conventional chemotherapies have particularly poor prognosis. There is urgent need to develop new drugs because of the lack of a standard therapy and poor prognoses. This phase II trial is designed for evaluating the efficacy and safety of alectinib hydrochloride for patients with recurrent or refractory anaplastic lymphoma kinase -positive anaplastic large cell lymphoma. The primary endpoint is the response rate according to the Revised Response Criteria for Malignant Lymphoma. The secondary endpoints are pharmacokinetics, safety in children, complete response rate, response duration, progression-free survival, event-free survival, overall survival, and adverse events. The results of this trial will be the pivotal data for the drug approval of alectinib hydrochloride for recurrent or refractory anaplastic lymphoma kinase-positive anaplastic large cell lymphoma.

The R-Process Alliance: 2MASS J09544277+5246414, the Most Actinide-enhanced R-II Star Known

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Holmbeck, Erika M.; Beers, Timothy C.; Roederer, Ian U.; Placco, Vinicius M.; Hansen, Terese T.; Sakari, Charli M.; Sneden, Christopher; Liu, Chao; Lee, Young Sun; Cowan, John J.; Frebel, Anna

2018-06-01

We report the discovery of a new actinide-boost star, 2MASS J09544277+5246414, originally identified as a very bright (V = 10.1), extremely metal-poor ([Fe/H] = ‑2.99) K giant in the LAMOST survey, and found to be highly r-process-enhanced (r-II; [Eu/Fe] = +1.28]), during the snapshot phase of the R-Process Alliance (RPA). Based on a high signal-to-noise ratio (S/N), high-resolution spectrum obtained with the Harlan J. Smith 2.7 m telescope, this star is the first confirmed actinide-boost star found by RPA efforts. With an enhancement of [Th/Eu] = +0.37, 2MASS J09544277+5246414 is also the most actinide-enhanced r-II star yet discovered, and only the sixth metal-poor star with a measured uranium abundance ([U/Fe] = +1.40). Using the Th/U chronometer, we estimate an age of 13.0 ± 4.7 Gyr for this star. The unambiguous actinide-boost signature of this extremely metal-poor star, combined with additional r-process-enhanced and actinide-boost stars identified by the RPA, will provide strong constraints on the nature and origin of the r-process at early times.

A prospective evaluation of the impact of 18-F-fluoro-deoxy-D-glucose positron emission tomography staging on survival for patients with locally advanced esophageal cancer

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

Blackstock, A. William; Farmer, Michael R.; Lovato, James

2006-02-01

Purpose: To determine the impact of 18-F-fluoro-deoxy-D-glucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) in the staging and prognosis of patients with locally advanced esophageal cancer (LAEC). Methods and Materials: Between January 2000 and October 2004, all patients with LAEC evaluated in the Department of Radiation Oncology were considered for enrollment into a Phase II trial of preoperative chemoradiation. Entry required a staging whole-body FDG-PET scan. Results: One hundred ten consecutive patients were evaluated; 38 were ineligible for reasons including treatment elsewhere, prior malignancy, or refusal of treatment. After conventional staging (clinical examination, endoscopic ultrasound, and chest/abdominal computerized tomography), 33 patients were ineligiblemore » because of metastatic disease or poor performance status. Of the remaining 39 patients, 23 were confirmed to have LAEC after FDG-PET staging and were treated in the Phase II trial (Cohort I). Sixteen patients, however, had FDG-PET findings consistent with occult metastatic disease and were deemed ineligible for the trial but were treated with curative intent (Cohort II). The 2-year survival rate for the 23 patients in Cohort I was 64%, compared with 17% (p = 0.003) for patients in Cohort II (FDG-PET positive). Conclusions: More than one-third of patients determined to have LAEC with conventional staging were upstaged with the use of FDG-PET. Despite comparable therapy, upstaging with FDG-PET predicts poor 2-year survival.« less

On the chemical homogeneity of the 30 Doradus H II region and a local enrichment by Wolf-Rayet stars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rosa, Michael; Mathis, John S.

1987-01-01

Emission-line strengths have been obtained at 10 positions in the outer regions of the 30 Dor nebula and analyzed in the standard way. There are two major results: (1) the elemental abundances for nine of the outer regions are remarkably similar to those previously measured in the core. This result implies the spectra of the cores and halos of giant H II regions (subject to the different ionizing radiation fields) are analyzed correctly by the standard methods. Hence measurements of extragalactic H II regions with poor spatial resolution correctly represent the abundances of the whole nebula. The O/H ratio in 30 Dor, by number, is 0.30 solar. The Ne/O, S/O, Ar/O, and Cl/O are close to solar. The gas-phase Fe/O is about 0.2 solar, which probably implies that most of the iron is within solid grains. The He/H is 0.0810 as shown by each of the three strong lines available. One region is cool and rich in helium and all other heavy elements except nitrogen. The spectrum of the region does not resemble that of a supernova remnant in that the forbidden O I and S II lines are not nearly strong enough. The abundances can be explained fairly well as over 10 solar masses of H-poor material ejected during the evolution of a single massive (about 80 solar masses) star during its late O-star and Wolf-Rayet phases.

Clinical Signatures of Mucinous and Poorly Differentiated Subtypes of Colorectal Adenocarcinomas by a Propensity Score Analysis of an Independent Patient Database from Three Phase III Trials.

PubMed

Kanda, Mitsuro; Oba, Koji; Aoyama, Toru; Kashiwabara, Kosuke; Mayanagi, Shuhei; Maeda, Hiromichi; Honda, Michitaka; Hamada, Chikuma; Sadahiro, Sotaro; Sakamoto, Junichi; Saji, Shigetoyo; Yoshikawa, Takaki

2018-04-01

Although colorectal cancer comprises several histological subtypes, the influences of histological subtypes on disease progression and treatment responses remain controversial. We sought to evaluate the prognostic relevance of mucinous and poorly differentiated histological subtypes of colorectal cancer by the propensity score weighting analysis of prospectively collected data from multi-institute phase III trials. Independent patient data analysis of a pooled database from 3 phase III trials was performed. An integrated database of 3 multicenter prospective clinical trials (the Japanese Foundation for Multidisciplinary Treatment of Cancer 7, 15, and 33) was the source of study data. Surgery alone or postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy was offered in patients with resectable colorectal cancer. To balance essential variables more strictly for the comparison analyses, propensity score weighting was conducted with the use of a multinomial logistic regression model. We evaluated the clinical signatures of mucinous and poorly differentiated subtypes with regard to postoperative survival, recurrence, and chemosensitivity. Of 5489 patients, 136 (2.5%) and 155 (2.8%) were pathologically diagnosed with poorly differentiated and mucinous subtypes. The poorly differentiated subtypes were associated with a poorer prognosis than the "others" group (HR, 1.69; 95% CI, 1.00-2.87; p = 0.051), particularly in the patient subgroup of adjuvant chemotherapy (HR, 2.16). Although the mucinous subtype had a marginal prognostic impact among patients with stage I to III colorectal cancer (HR, 1.33; 95% CI, 0.90-1.96), it was found to be an independent prognostic factor in the subpopulation of patients with stage II disease, being associated with a higher prevalence of peritoneal recurrence. The treatment regimens of postoperative chemotherapy are now somewhat outdated. Both mucinous and poorly differentiated subtypes have distinct clinical characteristics. Patients with the mucinous subtype require special attention during follow-up, even for stage II disease, because of the risk of peritoneal or local recurrence. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A531.

Diagnostic accuracy of language sample measures with Persian-speaking preschool children.

PubMed

Kazemi, Yalda; Klee, Thomas; Stringer, Helen

2015-04-01

This study examined the diagnostic accuracy of selected language sample measures (LSMs) with Persian-speaking children. A pre-accuracy study followed by phase I and II studies are reported. Twenty-four Persian-speaking children, aged 42 to 54 months, with primary language impairment (PLI) were compared to 27 age-matched children without PLI on a set of measures derived from play-based, conversational language samples. Results showed that correlations between age and LSMs were not statistically significant in either group of children. However, a majority of LSMs differentiated children with and without PLI at the group level (phase I), while three of the measures exhibited good diagnostic accuracy at the level of the individual (phase II). We conclude that general LSMs are promising for distinguishing between children with and without PLI. Persian-specific measures are mainly helpful in identifying children without language impairment while their ability to identify children with PLI is poor.

Developing symptom-based predictive models of endometriosis as a clinical screening tool: results from a multicenter study

PubMed Central

Nnoaham, Kelechi E.; Hummelshoj, Lone; Kennedy, Stephen H.; Jenkinson, Crispin; Zondervan, Krina T.

2012-01-01

Objective To generate and validate symptom-based models to predict endometriosis among symptomatic women prior to undergoing their first laparoscopy. Design Prospective, observational, two-phase study, in which women completed a 25-item questionnaire prior to surgery. Setting Nineteen hospitals in 13 countries. Patient(s) Symptomatic women (n = 1,396) scheduled for laparoscopy without a previous surgical diagnosis of endometriosis. Intervention(s) None. Main Outcome Measure(s) Sensitivity and specificity of endometriosis diagnosis predicted by symptoms and patient characteristics from optimal models developed using multiple logistic regression analyses in one data set (phase I), and independently validated in a second data set (phase II) by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Result(s) Three hundred sixty (46.7%) women in phase I and 364 (58.2%) in phase II were diagnosed with endometriosis at laparoscopy. Menstrual dyschezia (pain on opening bowels) and a history of benign ovarian cysts most strongly predicted both any and stage III and IV endometriosis in both phases. Prediction of any-stage endometriosis, although improved by ultrasound scan evidence of cyst/nodules, was relatively poor (area under the curve [AUC] = 68.3). Stage III and IV disease was predicted with good accuracy (AUC = 84.9, sensitivity of 82.3% and specificity 75.8% at an optimal cut-off of 0.24). Conclusion(s) Our symptom-based models predict any-stage endometriosis relatively poorly and stage III and IV disease with good accuracy. Predictive tools based on such models could help to prioritize women for surgical investigation in clinical practice and thus contribute to reducing time to diagnosis. We invite other researchers to validate the key models in additional populations. PMID:22657249

Vertical distribution of Fe and Fe(III)-reducing bacteria in the sediments of Lake Donghu, China.

PubMed

Tian, Cuicui; Wang, Chunbo; Tian, Yingying; Wu, Xingqiang; Xiao, Bangding

2015-08-01

In lake sediments, iron (Fe) is the most versatile element, and the redox cycling of Fe has a wide influence on the biogeochemical cycling of organic and inorganic substances. The aim of the present study was to analyze the vertical distribution of Fe and Fe(III)-reducing bacteria (FeRB) in the surface sediment (30 cm) of Lake Donghu, China. At the 3 sites we surveyed, FeRB and Fe(II)-oxidizing bacteria (FeOB) coexisted in anoxic sediments. Geobacter-related FeRB accounted for 5%-31% of the total Bacteria, while Gallionella-related FeOB accounted for only 0.1%-1.3%. A significant correlation between the relative abundance of poorly crystalline Fe and Geobacter spp. suggested that poorly crystalline Fe favored microbial Fe(III) reduction. Poorly crystalline Fe and Geobacter spp. were significantly associated with solid-phase Fe(II) and total inorganic phosphorus levels. Pore water Fe(II) concentrations negatively correlated with NO3(-) at all sites. We concluded that Geobacter spp. were abundant in the sediments of Lake Donghu, and the redox of Fe might participate in the cycling of nitrogen and phosphorus in sediments. These observations provided insight into the roles of microbial Fe cycling in lake sediments.

Impact of mutational profiles on response of primary oestrogen receptor-positive breast cancers to oestrogen deprivation.

PubMed

Gellert, Pascal; Segal, Corrinne V; Gao, Qiong; López-Knowles, Elena; Martin, Lesley-Ann; Dodson, Andrew; Li, Tiandao; Miller, Christopher A; Lu, Charles; Mardis, Elaine R; Gillman, Alexa; Morden, James; Graf, Manuela; Sidhu, Kally; Evans, Abigail; Shere, Michael; Holcombe, Christopher; McIntosh, Stuart A; Bundred, Nigel; Skene, Anthony; Maxwell, William; Robertson, John; Bliss, Judith M; Smith, Ian; Dowsett, Mitch

2016-11-09

Pre-surgical studies allow study of the relationship between mutations and response of oestrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer to aromatase inhibitors (AIs) but have been limited to small biopsies. Here in phase I of this study, we perform exome sequencing on baseline, surgical core-cuts and blood from 60 patients (40 AI treated, 20 controls). In poor responders (based on Ki67 change), we find significantly more somatic mutations than good responders. Subclones exclusive to baseline or surgical cores occur in ∼30% of tumours. In phase II, we combine targeted sequencing on another 28 treated patients with phase I. We find six genes frequently mutated: PIK3CA, TP53, CDH1, MLL3, ABCA13 and FLG with 71% concordance between paired cores. TP53 mutations are associated with poor response. We conclude that multiple biopsies are essential for confident mutational profiling of ER+ breast cancer and TP53 mutations are associated with resistance to oestrogen deprivation therapy.

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.

Hypofractionated Radiotherapy for Complicated Bone Metastases in Patients with Poor Performance Status: A Phase II International Trial.

PubMed

Silva, Mauricio F; Marta, Gustavo N; Lisboa, Felipe P C; Watte, Guilherme; Trippa, Fabio; Maranzano, Ernesto; da Motta, Neiro W; Popovic, Marko; Ha, Tuan; Burmeister, Bryan; Chow, Edward

2017-06-01

Purpose To evaluate the efficacy and safety of hypofractionated radiotherapy (16 Gy in 2 fractions, 1 week apart) in patients with complicated bone metastases and poor performance status. Methods A prospective single-arm phase II clinical trial was conducted from July 2014 to May 2016. The primary endpoint was pain response as defined in the International Consensus on Palliative Radiotherapy Endpoints. Secondary endpoints included quality of life as measured by quality of life questionnaire (QLQ) PAL-15 and QLQ-BM22 European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer guidelines, pain flare, adverse events, re-irradiation, and skeletal complications. Results Fifty patients were enrolled. There were 23 men with a median age of 58 years (range 26-86). Of the 50 patients, 38 had an extraosseous soft tissue component, 18 needed postsurgical radiation, 3 had neuropathic pain, and 3 had an impending fracture in a weight-bearing bone. At 2 months, 33 patients were alive (66%). Four (12.5%) had a complete response and 12 (37.5%) had a partial response. A statistically significant improvement was seen in the functional interference (p = 0.01) and psychosocial aspects (p = 0.03) of the BM22. No patient had spinal cord compression. One patient required surgery for pathologic fracture, and another re-irradiation. Conclusions Hypofractionated radiotherapy (16 Gy in 2 fractions of 8 Gy 1 week apart) achieved satisfactory pain relief and safety results in patients with complicated bone metastases and poor performance status.

Organisational justice and change in justice as predictors of employee health: the Whitehall II study.

PubMed

Kivimäki, Mika; Ferrie, Jane E; Head, Jenny; Shipley, Martin J; Vahtera, Jussi; Marmot, Michael G

2004-11-01

Organisational justice has been proposed as a new way to examine the impact of psychosocial work environment on employee health. This article studied the justice of interpersonal treatment by supervisors (the relational component of organisational justice) as a predictor of health. Prospective cohort study. Phase 1 (1985-88) measured relational justice, job demands, job control, social support at work, effort-reward imbalance, and self rated health. Relational justice was assessed again at phase 2 (1989-90) and self rated health at phase 2 and phase 3 (1991-93). 20 civil service departments originally located in London. 10 308 civil servants (6895 men, 3413 women) aged 35-55. Self rated health. Men exposed to low justice at phase 1 or adverse change in justice between phase 1 and phase 2 were at higher risk of poor health at phase 2 and phase 3. A favourable change in justice was associated with reduced risk. Adjustment for other stress indicators had little effect on results. In women, low justice at phase 1 predicted poor health at phase 2 and phase 3 before but not after adjustment for other stress indicators. Adverse change in justice was associated with worse health prospects irrespective of adjustments. The extent to which people are treated with justice in workplaces seems to predict their health independently of established stressors at work. Evidence on reduced health risk after favourable change in organisational justice implies a promising area for health interventions at workplace.

DSM-III field trials: I. Initial interrater diagnostic reliability.

PubMed

Spitzer, R L; Forman, J B; Nee, J

1979-06-01

The interrater agreement for major diagnostic categories in studies using DSM-I and DSM-II was usually only fair or poor. In phase one of the DSM-III field trials the overall kappa coefficient of agreement for axis I diagnoses of 281 adult patients was .78 for joint interviews and .66 for diagnoses made after separate interviews; for axis II--personality disorders and specific developmental disorders--the coefficients of agreement were .61 and .54. The interrater reliability of DSM--III is, in general, higher than that previously achieved and may be due to changes in the classification itself, the separation of axis I from axis II conditions, the systematic description of the various disorders, and the inclusion of diagnostic criteria.

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.

SR-BI selective lipid uptake: subsequent metabolism of acute phase HDL.

PubMed

de Beer, Maria C; Webb, Nancy R; Whitaker, Nathan L; Wroblewski, Joanne M; Jahangiri, Anisa; van der Westhuyzen, Deneys R; de Beer, Frederick C

2009-09-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the interaction of SAA and SR-BI in remodeling of acute phase HDL (AP HDL). We used SAA and SR-BI adenoviral vector expression models to study the interaction between these entities. SR-BI processing of mouse AP HDL generated progressively smaller discreet HDL particles with distinct apolipoprotein compositions. SR-BI actions segregated apolipoproteins with the smallest particles containing only apoA-I. Larger remnants contained apoA-I, apoA-II, and SAA. Small apoA-I only particles failed to associate with preformed HDL, whereas larger remnants readily did. The presence of SAA on SR-BI-processed HDL particles propelled apoA-I to a small lipid-poor form and accelerated apoA-I catabolism. Data indicate that after core and surface HDL lipid perturbation by SR-BI, SAA propels apoA-I to a small lipid-poor form while accelerating HDL metabolism.

SR-BI Selective Lipid Uptake: Subsequent Metabolism of Acute Phase HDL

PubMed Central

de Beer, Maria C.; Webb, Nancy R.; Whitaker, Nathan L.; Wroblewski, Joanne M.; Jahangiri, Anisa; van der Westhuyzen, Deneys R.; de Beer, Frederick C.

2009-01-01

Objective To investigate the interaction of SAA and SR-BI in remodeling of acute phase HDL (AP HDL). Methods and Results We used SAA and SR-BI adenoviral vector expression models to study the interaction between these entities. SR-BI processing of mouse AP HDL generated progressively smaller discreet HDL particles with distinct apolipoprotein compositions. SR-BI actions segregated apolipoproteins with the smallest particles containing only apoA-I. Larger remnants contained apoA-I, apoA-II and SAA. Small apoA-I only particles failed to associate with preformed HDL whereas larger remnants readily did. The presence of SAA on SR-BI processed HDL particles propelled apoA-I to a small lipid-poor form and accelerated apoA-I catabolism. Conclusions Data indicate that after core and surface HDL lipid perturbation by SR-BI, SAA propels apoA-I to a small lipid-poor form while accelerating HDL metabolism. PMID:19304574

A Phase II, Multicenter Study of the EZH2 Inhibitor Tazemetostat in Adult Subjects With INI1-Negative Tumors or Relapsed/Refractory Synovial Sarcoma

ClinicalTrials.gov

2018-05-18

Malignant Rhabdoid Tumors (MRT); Rhabdoid Tumors of the Kidney (RTK); Atypical Teratoid Rhabdoid Tumors (ATRT); Selected Tumors With Rhabdoid Features; Synovial Sarcoma; INI1-negative Tumors; Malignant Rhabdoid Tumor of Ovary; Renal Medullary Carcinoma; Epithelioid Sarcoma; Poorly Differentiated Chordoma (or Other Chordoma With Sponsor Approval); Any Solid Tumor With an EZH2 GOF Mutation

Organisational justice and change in justice as predictors of employee health: the Whitehall II study

PubMed Central

Kivimaki, M.; Ferrie, J.; Head, J.; Shipley, M.; Vahtera, J.; Marmot, M.

2004-01-01

Objective: Organisational justice has been proposed as a new way to examine the impact of psychosocial work environment on employee health. This article studied the justice of interpersonal treatment by supervisors (the relational component of organisational justice) as a predictor of health. Design: Prospective cohort study. Phase 1 (1985–88) measured relational justice, job demands, job control, social support at work, effort-reward imbalance, and self rated health. Relational justice was assessed again at phase 2 (1989–90) and self rated health at phase 2 and phase 3 (1991–93). Setting: 20 civil service departments originally located in London. Participants: 10 308 civil servants (6895 men, 3413 women) aged 35–55. Outcome measure: Self rated health. Main results: Men exposed to low justice at phase 1 or adverse change in justice between phase 1 and phase 2 were at higher risk of poor health at phase 2 and phase 3. A favourable change in justice was associated with reduced risk. Adjustment for other stress indicators had little effect on results. In women, low justice at phase 1 predicted poor health at phase 2 and phase 3 before but not after adjustment for other stress indicators. Adverse change in justice was associated with worse health prospects irrespective of adjustments. Conclusions: The extent to which people are treated with justice in workplaces seems to predict their health independently of established stressors at work. Evidence on reduced health risk after favourable change in organisational justice implies a promising area for health interventions at workplace. PMID:15483310

Spectra of Hydrogen-poor Superluminous Supernovae from the Palomar Transient Factory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Quimby, Robert M.; De Cia, Annalisa; Gal-Yam, Avishay; Leloudas, Giorgos; Lunnan, Ragnhild; Perley, Daniel A.; Vreeswijk, Paul M.; Yan, Lin; Bloom, Joshua S.; Cenko, S. Bradley; Cooke, Jeff; Ellis, Richard; Filippenko, Alexei V.; Kasliwal, Mansi M.; Kleiser, Io K. W.; Kulkarni, Shrinivas R.; Matheson, Thomas; Nugent, Peter E.; Pan, Yen-Chen; Silverman, Jeffrey M.; Sternberg, Assaf; Sullivan, Mark; Yaron, Ofer

2018-03-01

Most Type I superluminous supernovae (SLSNe-I) reported to date have been identified by their high peak luminosities and spectra lacking obvious signs of hydrogen. We demonstrate that these events can be distinguished from normal-luminosity SNe (including Type Ic events) solely from their spectra over a wide range of light-curve phases. We use this distinction to select 19 SLSNe-I and four possible SLSNe-I from the Palomar Transient Factory archive (including seven previously published objects). We present 127 new spectra of these objects and combine these with 39 previously published spectra, and we use these to discuss the average spectral properties of SLSNe-I at different spectral phases. We find that Mn II most probably contributes to the ultraviolet spectral features after maximum light, and we give a detailed study of the O II features that often characterize the early-time optical spectra of SLSNe-I. We discuss the velocity distribution of O II, finding that for some SLSNe-I this can be confined to a narrow range compared to relatively large systematic velocity shifts. Mg II and Fe II favor higher velocities than O II and C II, and we briefly discuss how this may constrain power-source models. We tentatively group objects by how well they match either SN 2011ke or PTF12dam and discuss the possibility that physically distinct events may have been previously grouped together under the SLSN-I label.

Spectra of Hydrogen-poor Superluminous Supernovae from the Palomar Transient Factory

DOE PAGES

Quimby, Robert M.; Cia, Annalisa De; Gal-Yam, Avishay; ...

2018-02-27

Most Type I superluminous supernovae (SLSNe-I) reported to date have been identified by their high peak luminosities and spectra lacking obvious signs of hydrogen. Here, we demonstrate that these events can be distinguished from normal-luminosity SNe (including Type Ic events) solely from their spectra over a wide range of light-curve phases. We use this distinction to select 19 SLSNe-I and four possible SLSNe-I from the Palomar Transient Factory archive (including seven previously published objects). We present 127 new spectra of these objects and combine these with 39 previously published spectra, and we use these to discuss the average spectral propertiesmore » of SLSNe-I at different spectral phases. We find that Mn ii most probably contributes to the ultraviolet spectral features after maximum light, and we give a detailed study of the O II features that often characterize the early-time optical spectra of SLSNe-I. We discuss the velocity distribution of O II, finding that for some SLSNe-I this can be confined to a narrow range compared to relatively large systematic velocity shifts. Mg II and Fe II favor higher velocities than O II and C II, and we briefly discuss how this may constrain power-source models. We tentatively group objects by how well they match either SN 2011ke or PTF12dam and discuss the possibility that physically distinct events may have been previously grouped together under the SLSN-I label.« less

Spectra of Hydrogen-poor Superluminous Supernovae from the Palomar Transient Factory

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

Quimby, Robert M.; Cia, Annalisa De; Gal-Yam, Avishay

Most Type I superluminous supernovae (SLSNe-I) reported to date have been identified by their high peak luminosities and spectra lacking obvious signs of hydrogen. Here, we demonstrate that these events can be distinguished from normal-luminosity SNe (including Type Ic events) solely from their spectra over a wide range of light-curve phases. We use this distinction to select 19 SLSNe-I and four possible SLSNe-I from the Palomar Transient Factory archive (including seven previously published objects). We present 127 new spectra of these objects and combine these with 39 previously published spectra, and we use these to discuss the average spectral propertiesmore » of SLSNe-I at different spectral phases. We find that Mn ii most probably contributes to the ultraviolet spectral features after maximum light, and we give a detailed study of the O II features that often characterize the early-time optical spectra of SLSNe-I. We discuss the velocity distribution of O II, finding that for some SLSNe-I this can be confined to a narrow range compared to relatively large systematic velocity shifts. Mg II and Fe II favor higher velocities than O II and C II, and we briefly discuss how this may constrain power-source models. We tentatively group objects by how well they match either SN 2011ke or PTF12dam and discuss the possibility that physically distinct events may have been previously grouped together under the SLSN-I label.« less

Phase II trial of irinotecan plus cisplatin in patients with recurrent or metastatic squamous carcinoma of the head and neck.

PubMed

Gilbert, Jill; Cmelak, Anthony; Shyr, Yu; Netterville, James; Burkey, Brian B; Sinard, Robert J; Yarbrough, Wendall G; Chung, Christine H; Aulino, Joseph M; Murphy, Barbara A

2008-07-01

Patients with recurrent or metastatic HNC have a poor response and survival with currently available chemotherapy agents. Thus, new agents are needed. The authors report the results of a phase II trial of irinotecan and cisplatin in patients with metastatic or recurrent HNC. Patients were treated with irinotecan 65 mg/m2 IV over 90 minutes and cisplatin 30 mg/m2 were administered intravenously weekly for four weeks, followed by a two week rest. However, after 17 patients were treated with weekly irinotecan at a dose of 65 mg/m2, toxicity analysis demonstrated the poor tolerance of that dose in this patient population. Thus, the protocol was amended, and irinotecan was dose reduced to a starting dose of 50 mg/m2. Twenty-three additional patients were treated with this dose. Forty patients were enrolled on study between February 2002 and April 2006, 17 patients at the first dose level and 23 patients at the amended dose level. Overall, 12 of 17 patients (71%) treated with irinotecan 65 mg/m2 experienced clinically significant grade 3 or 4 toxicity. Twelve patients required dose reductions. Toxicity was reduced but 17% of patients still experienced grade 3 or 4 toxicity on the lower irinotecan dose. The response rate was 35% for patients treated at irinotecan 65 mg/m2 and 22% for patients treated at 50 mg/m2. No complete responses were noted. The combination of irinotecan and cisplatin is efficacious in a poor prognosis group of patients but toxicity is substantial. (Copyright) 2008 American Cancer Society.

Availability and feasibility of structured, routine collection of comorbidity data in a colorectal cancer multi-disciplinary team (MDT) setting.

PubMed

Abukar, A A; Ramsanahie, A; Martin-Lumbard, K; Herrington, E R; Winslow, V; Wong, S; Ahmed, S; Thaha, M A

2018-05-03

Availability of comorbidity assessment at multi-disciplinary team (MDT) discussions is cornerstone in making the MDT process more robust and decisive in optimising treatment and improving quality of survivorship. Comorbidity assessments using tools, such as the ACE-27 questionnaire would aid in optimising the decision-making process at MDTs so that treatment decisions can be made without delay. This study determined the availability of comorbidity data in a CRC MDT and the feasibility of routine comorbidity data collection using the validated ACE-27 questionnaire. Secondary aims determined the optimal time and method of collecting comorbidity data. A retrospective mapping exercise (phase I; 6-months) examined the availability of comorbidity data within the MDT. Phase II prospectively collected comorbidity data using ACE-27 for a 3-month period following a short pilot. In phase I, 73/135 (54%) patients had comorbidity data readily available informing the MDT discussion; 62 patients lacked this information. After a review of the patient records, it was clear that 41 of these 62 also had comorbidities and 21 out of the 135 had ≥ 2 major system disorders. Common referral sources to the MDT were surgical outpatient clinics (42%) and the endoscopy unit (13%). The average lead-time from referral to MDT discussion was 14 days. In phase II, an ACE-27 questionnaire was prospectively administered in 50 patients, mean age 54 years (range 20-84). Male: female ratio 26:24. Average time to administer ACE-27 was 4.8 min (range 1-15). The phase I study confirmed the widely acknowledged view of poor comorbidity data availability within a CRC MDT. Phase II demonstrated the feasibility of routinely collecting comorbidity data using ACE-27.

Increase of poorly proliferated p63+ /Ki67+ basal cells forming multiple layers in the aberrant remodeled epithelium in nasal polyps.

PubMed

Zhao, L; Li, Y Y; Li, C W; Chao, S S; Liu, J; Nam, H N; Dung, N T N; Shi, L; Wang, D Y

2017-06-01

Aberrant epithelial remodeling with the ectopic expression of p63 (basal cell markers) is an important pathologic phenomenon seen in chronically inflamed airway epithelium such as in nasal polyps (NPs). Biopsies were obtained from 55 NP patients and 18 healthy controls (inferior turbinate). Among NP patients, 15 were treated with oral and nasal steroids, so that two sets of NP biopsies were taken before and after the treatments. p63, Ki67, type IV β-tubulin, and cell cycle markers were investigated in these specimens. The number of p63 + cells is significantly higher in both hyperplastic (1.53-fold, P < 0.0001) and squamous metaplastic (2.02-fold, P < 0.0001) epithelium from NPs than from healthy controls. There are three types of proliferative basal cells (p63 + /Ki67 + ) which are in different phases of the cell cycle, such as G1 phase (type I cells), S to G2 phase (type II cells), and mitosis (type III cells). Of importance, some type I cells may arrest after proliferation although they may still be p63 + /Ki67 + . In healthy epithelium, the ratio of the type I and II cells is almost 50:50. However, less type II cells are found in hyperplastic epithelium (34.85%, P = 0.012) and in squamous metaplastic epithelium (30.77%, P = 0.02) together with the presence of type III cells (3.45%, P = 0.01). These findings were not changed after steroid treatments. An increase of poorly proliferated basal cells forming multiple layers, which may stain for basal cell markers but does not form a proper epidermal barrier, is an important histopathologic phenomenon in aberrant remodeled epithelium of NPs. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

[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.

Diversity of Mn oxides produced by Mn(II)-oxidizing fungi

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

Santelli, Cara M.; Webb, Samuel M.; Dohnalkova, Alice

Manganese (Mn) oxides are environmentally abundant, highly reactive mineral phases that mediate the biogeochemical cycling of nutrients, contaminants, carbon, and numerous other elements. Despite the belief that microorganisms (specifically bacteria and fungi) are responsible for the majority of Mn oxide formation in the environment, the impact of microbial species, physiology, and growth stage on Mn oxide formation is largely unresolved. Here, we couple microscopic and spectroscopic techniques to characterize the Mn oxides produced by four different species of Mn(II)-oxidizing Ascomycete fungi (Plectosphaerella cucumerina strain DS2psM2a2, Pyrenochaeta sp. DS3sAY3a, Stagonospora sp. SRC1lsM3a, and Acremonium strictum strain DS1bioAY4a) isolated from acid minemore » drainage treatment systems in central Pennsylvania. The site of Mn oxide formation varies greatly among the fungi, including deposition on hyphal surfaces, at the base of reproductive structures (e.g., fruiting bodies), and on envisaged extracellular polymers adjacent to the cell. The primary product of Mn(II) oxidation for all species growing under the same chemical and physical conditions is a nanoparticulate, poorly-crystalline hexagonal birnessite-like phase resembling synthetic d-MnO2. The phylogeny and growth conditions (planktonic versus surface-attached) of the fungi, however, impact the conversion of the initial phyllomanganate to more ordered phases, such as todorokite (A. strictum strain DS1bioAY4a) and triclinic birnessite (Stagonospora sp. SRC1lsM3a). Our findings reveal that the species of Mn(II)-oxidizing fungi impacts the size, morphology, and structure of Mn biooxides, which will likely translate to large differences in the reactivity of the Mn oxide phases.« less

Evaluating laboratory key performance using quality indicators in Alexandria University Hospital Clinical Chemistry Laboratories.

PubMed

Rizk, Mostafa M; Zaki, Adel; Hossam, Nermine; Aboul-Ela, Yasmin

2014-12-01

The performance of clinical laboratories plays a fundamental role in the quality and effectiveness of healthcare. To evaluate the laboratory performance in Alexandria University Hospital Clinical Laboratories using key quality indicators and to compare the performance before and after an improvement plan based on ISO 15189 standards. The study was carried out on inpatient samples for a period of 7 months that was divided into three phases: phase I included data collection for evaluation of the existing process before improvement (March-May 2012); an intermediate phase, which included corrective, preventive action, quality initiative and steps for improvement (June 2012); and phase II, which included data collection for evaluation of the process after improvement (July 2012-September 2012). In terms of the preanalytical indicators, incomplete request forms in phase I showed that the total number of received requests were 31 944, with a percentage of defected request of 33.66%; whereas in phase II, there was a significant reduction in all defected request items (P<0.001) with a percentage of defected requests of 9.64%. As for the analytical indicators, the proficiency testing accuracy score in phase I showed poor performance of 10 analytes in which total error (TE) exceeded total error allowable (TEa), with a corresponding sigma value of less than 3, which indicates test problems and an unreliable method. The remaining analytes showed an acceptable performance in which TE did not exceed the TEa, with a sigma value of more than 6. Following an intervention of 3 months, the performance showed marked improvement. Error tracking in phase I showed a TE of (5.11%), whereas in phase II it was reduced to 2.48% (P<0.001).For the postanalytical indicators, our results in phase I showed that the percentage of nonreported critical results was 26.07%. In phase II, there was a significant improvement (P<0.001). The percentage of nonreported results was 11.37%, the reasons were either inability to contact the authorized doctor (8.24%), wrong patient identification (1.0%), lack of reporting by lab doctor (1.11%), and finally, lack of reporting by the lab technician (1.03%). Standardization and monitoring of each step in the total testing process is very important and is associated with the most efficient and well-organized laboratories.

The Importance of pH, Oxygen, and Bitumen on the Oxidation and Precipitation of Fe(III)-(oxy)hydroxides during Hydraulic Fracturing of Oil/Gas Shales

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jew, A. D.; Dustin, M. K.; Harrison, A. L.; Joe-Wong, C. M.; Thomas, D.; Maher, K.; Brown, G. E.; Bargar, J.

2016-12-01

Due to the rapid growth of hydraulic fracturing in the United States, understanding the cause for the rapid production drop off of new wells over the initial months of production is paramount. One possibility for the production decrease is pore occlusion caused by the oxidation of Fe(II)-bearing phases resulting in Fe(III) precipitates. To understand the release and fate of Fe in the shale systems, we reacted synthesized fracture fluid at 80oC with shale from four different geological localities (Marcellus Fm., Barnett Fm., Eagle Ford Fm., and Green River Fm.). A variety of wet chemical and synchrotron-based techniques (XRF mapping and x-ray absorption spectroscopy) were used to understand Fe release and solid phase Fe speciation. Solution pH was found to be the greatest factor for Fe release. Carbonate-poor Barnett and Marcellus shale showed rapid Fe release into solution followed by a plateau or significant drop in Fe concentrations indicating mineral precipitation. Conversely, in high carbonate shales, Eagle Ford and Green River, no Fe was detected in solution indicating fast Fe oxidation and precipitation. For all shale samples, bulk Fe EXAFS data show that a significant amount of Fe in the shales is bound directly to organic carbon. Throughout the course of the experiments inorganic Fe(II) phases (primarily pyrite) reacted while Fe(II) bound to C showed no indication of reaction. On the micron scale, XRF mapping coupled with μ-XANES spectroscopy showed that at pH < 4.0, Fe(III) bearing phases precipitated as diffuse surface precipitates of ferrihydrite, goethite, and magnetite away from Fe(II) point sources. In near circum-neutral pH systems, Fe(III)-bearing phases (goethite and hematite) form large particles 10's of μm's in diameter near Fe(II) point sources. Idealized systems containing synthesized fracturing fluid, dissolved ferrous chloride, and bitumen showed that bitumen released during reaction with fracturing fluids is capable of oxidizing Fe(II) to Fe(III) at pH's 2.0 and 7.0. This indicates that bitumen can play a large role in Fe oxidation and speciation in the subsurface. This work shows that shale mineralogy has a significant impact on the morphology and phases of Fe(III) precipitates in the subsurface which in turn can significantly impact subsurface solution flow.

Influence of Coprecipitated Organic Matter on Fe2+(aq) -Catalyzed Transformation of Ferrihydrite: Implications for Carbon Dynamics

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

Chen, Chunmei; Kukkadapu, Ravi K.; Sparks, Donald L.

2015-08-10

The poorly crystalline Fe(III) hydroxide ferrihydrite is an important sink for organic matter (OM), nutrients and contaminants in soils and sediments. Aqueous Fe(II) is known to catalyze the transformation of ferrihydrite to more crystalline and thus less reactive phases. While coprecipitation of OM with ferrihydrite could be a common process in many environments due to changes in pH, redox potential or ionic strength, little is known about the impacts of coprecipitated OM on Fe(II)-catalyzed ferrihydrite transformation and its consequences for C dynamics. Accordingly, we explored the extent and pathways of Fe(II)-induced transformation of OM-ferrihydrite coprecipitates and subsequent C mobility. Mössbauermore » spectroscopic results indicated that the coprecipitated OM within ferrihydrite weakened the inter-particle magnetic interactions and decreased average particle size. The coprecipitated OM resulted in diminished Fe(II)-induced ferrihydrite transformation and thus preservation of ferrihydrite. The secondary mineral profiles upon Fe(II) reaction with ferrihydrite were a function of OM content and Fe(II) concentration. At low Fe(II) levels, OM completely inhibited goethite formation and stimulated lepidocrocite formation. At high Fe(II) levels, whereas goethite was formed in the presence of OM, OM reduced the amount of goethite and magnetite formation and increased the formation of lepidocrcocite. The solid-phase C content remained unchanged after reaction, while OM desorpability by H2PO4- was enhanced following reaction of OM-ferrihydrites with aqueous Fe(II). These findings provide insights into the reactivity of natural ferrihydrite containing OM in soils and sediments and the subsequent impact on mineral evolution and C dynamics.« less

Injustice at work and incidence of psychiatric morbidity: the Whitehall II study.

PubMed

Ferrie, J E; Head, J; Shipley, M J; Vahtera, J; Marmot, M G; Kivimäki, M

2006-07-01

Previous studies of organisational justice and mental health have mostly examined women and have not examined the effect of change in justice. To examine effects of change in the treatment of employees by supervisors (the relational component of organisational justice) on minor psychiatric morbidity, using a cohort with a large proportion of men. Data are from the Whitehall II study, a prospective cohort of 10 308 white-collar British civil servants (3143 women and 6895 men, aged 35-55 at baseline) (Phase 1, 1985-88). Employment grade, relational justice, job demands, job control, social support at work, effort-reward imbalance, physical illness, and psychiatric morbidity were measured at baseline. Relational justice was assessed again at Phase 2 (1989-90). The outcome was cases of psychiatric morbidity by Phases 2 and 3 (1991-93) among participants case-free at baseline. In analyses adjusted for age, grade, and baseline physical illness, women and men exposed to low relational justice at Phase 1 were at higher risk of psychiatric morbidity by Phases 2 and 3. Adjustment for other psychosocial work characteristics, particularly social support and effort-reward imbalance, partially attenuated these associations. A favourable change in justice between Phase 1 and Phase 2 reduced the immediate risk (Phase 2) of psychiatric morbidity, while an adverse change increased the immediate and longer term risk (Phase 3). This study shows that unfair treatment by supervisors increases risk of poor mental health. It appears that the employers' duty to ensure that employees are treated fairly at work also has benefits for health.

A phase I/II trial of AT9283, a selective inhibitor of aurora kinase in children with relapsed or refractory acute leukemia: challenges to run early phase clinical trials for children with leukemia.

PubMed

Vormoor, B; Veal, G J; Griffin, M J; Boddy, A V; Irving, J; Minto, L; Case, M; Banerji, U; Swales, K E; Tall, J R; Moore, A S; Toguchi, M; Acton, G; Dyer, K; Schwab, C; Harrison, C J; Grainger, J D; Lancaster, D; Kearns, P; Hargrave, D; Vormoor, J

2017-06-01

Aurora kinases regulate mitosis and are commonly overexpressed in leukemia. This phase I/IIa study of AT9283, a multikinase inhibitor, was designed to identify maximal tolerated doses, safety, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamic activity in children with relapsed/refractory acute leukemia. The trial suffered from poor recruitment and terminated early, therefore failing to identify its primary endpoints. AT9283 caused tolerable toxicity, but failed to show clinical responses. Future trials should be based on robust preclinical data that provide an indication of which patients may benefit from the experimental agent, and recruitment should be improved through international collaborations and early combination with established treatment strategies. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Evaluation of equine urine reactivity towards phase II metabolites of 17-hydroxy steroids by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Fidani, M; Gamberini, M C; Pasello, E; Palazzoli, F; De Iuliis, P; Montana, M; Arioli, F

2009-01-01

Proper storage conditions of biological samples are fundamental to avoid microbiological contamination that can cause chemical modifications of the target analytes. A simple liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) method through direct injection of diluted samples, without prior extraction, was used to evaluate the stability of phase II metabolites of boldenone and testosterone (glucuronides and sulphates) in intentionally poorly stored equine urine samples. We also considered the stability of some deuterated conjugated steroids generally used as internal standards, such as deuterated testosterone and epitestosterone glucuronides, and deuterated boldenone and testosterone sulphates. The urines were kept for 1 day at room temperature, to mimic poor storage conditions, then spiked with the above steroids and kept at different temperatures (-18 degrees C, 4 degrees C, room temperature). It has been possible to confirm the instability of glucuronide compounds when added to poorly stored equine urine samples. In particular, both 17beta- and 17alpha-glucuronide steroids were exposed to hydrolysis leading to non-conjugated steroids. Only 17beta-hydroxy steroids were exposed to oxidation to their keto derivatives whereas the 17alpha-hydroxy steroids were highly stable. The sulphate compounds were completely stable. The deuterated compounds underwent the same behaviour as the unlabelled compounds. The transformations were observed in urine samples kept at room temperature and at a temperature of 4 degrees C (at a slower rate). No modifications were observed in frozen urine samples. In the light of the latter results, the immediate freezing at -18 degrees C of the collected samples and their instant analysis after thawing is the proposed procedure for preventing the transformations that occur in urine, usually due to microbiological contamination. (c) 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Determination of pharmacokinetics of chrysin and its conjugates in wild-type FVB and Bcrp1 knockout mice using a validated LC-MS/MS method.

PubMed

Ge, Shufan; Gao, Song; Yin, Taijun; Hu, Ming

2015-03-25

Chrysin, a flavone found in many plants, is also available as a dietary supplement because of its reported anticancer activities. However, its bioavailability is very poor due to extensive phase II metabolism. The purpose of this study was to develop an UPLC-MS/MS method to simultaneously quantify chrysin and its phase II metabolites, and to determine its pharmacokinetics in FVB wild-type and Bcrp knockout (Bcrp1 -/-) mice. In addition, the role of BCRP in chrysin phase II disposition was further investigated in Caco-2 cells. The results showed that our sensitive and reproducible UPLC-MS/MS method was successfully applied to the pharmacokinetic study of chrysin in wild-type and Bcrp1 (-/-) FVB mice after oral administration (20 mg/kg). Although there was no significant change in systemic exposure of chrysin and its metabolites, it was found that the Tmax for chrysin glucuronide was significantly shorter (p < 0.01) in Bcrp1-deficient mice. Furthermore, it was shown that inhibition of BCRP by Ko143 significantly reduced the efflux of chrysin sulfate in Caco-2 cells. In conclusion, BCRP had significant but less than expected impact on pharmacokinetics of chrysin and its conjugates, which were determined using a newly developed and validated LC-MS/MS method.

Unreliability of three commercial Coxiella burnetii phase II IgM ELISA kits for the seroscreening of acute Q fever in human cases.

PubMed

Stephen, Selvaraj; Ambroise, Stanley; Pradeep, Jothimani; Gunasekaran, Dhandapany; Sangeetha, Balakrishnan; Sarangapani, Kengamuthu

2017-09-01

Seroprevalence of Q fever (QF) caused by Coxiella burnetii has been reported from different parts of India. Usually serological/molecular tests are employed for detection of infection. The present study was undertaken to verify the validity of three different QF phase II IgM ELISA kits for acute QF diagnosis by comparing with the gold standard indirect fluorescent antibody assay (IFA). Fifty eight serum samples collected from 42 patients (26 patients provided acute sample only and 16 both acute and convalescent samples) which were examined by all three commercial kits, were cross-checked with QF Phase II IgM IFA for confirmation. Eleven patients were positive for C. burnetii antibodies by IFA in acute and/or convalescent serum samples. Taking IFA as a reference, percentages of sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value for Virion-Serion/Vircell/NovaTec were 36.36, 61.29, 25.00, 73.08; 81.82, 35.48, 31.03, 84.62 and 100, 25.81, 32.35, 100 per cent, respectively. The three different ELISA kits exhibited poor agreement amongst them and unacceptable level of false positivity. IFA remains to be the only option for diagnosing acute QF. Discrepancy between the clinical findings and IFA/ELISA results needs confirmation by C. burnetii DNA detection in real-time polymerase chain reaction.

Unreliability of three commercial Coxiella burnetii phase II IgM ELISA kits for the seroscreening of acute Q fever in human cases

PubMed Central

Stephen, Selvaraj; Ambroise, Stanley; Pradeep, Jothimani; Gunasekaran, Dhandapany; Sangeetha, Balakrishnan; Sarangapani, Kengamuthu

2017-01-01

Background & objectives: Seroprevalence of Q fever (QF) caused by Coxiella burnetii has been reported from different parts of India. Usually serological/molecular tests are employed for detection of infection. The present study was undertaken to verify the validity of three different QF phase II IgM ELISA kits for acute QF diagnosis by comparing with the gold standard indirect fluorescent antibody assay (IFA). Methods: Fifty eight serum samples collected from 42 patients (26 patients provided acute sample only and 16 both acute and convalescent samples) which were examined by all three commercial kits, were cross-checked with QF Phase II IgM IFA for confirmation. Results: Eleven patients were positive for C. burnetii antibodies by IFA in acute and/or convalescent serum samples. Taking IFA as a reference, percentages of sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value for Virion-Serion/Vircell/NovaTec were 36.36, 61.29, 25.00, 73.08; 81.82, 35.48, 31.03, 84.62 and 100, 25.81, 32.35, 100 per cent, respectively. Interpretation & conclusions: The three different ELISA kits exhibited poor agreement amongst them and unacceptable level of false positivity. IFA remains to be the only option for diagnosing acute QF. Discrepancy between the clinical findings and IFA/ELISA results needs confirmation by C. burnetii DNA detection in real-time polymerase chain reaction. PMID:29355147

A phase II study of sorafenib (BAY 43–9006) in recurrent diffuse large B cell lymphoma: an eastern cooperative oncology group study (E1404)

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Patients with diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) who are not candidates for or recur after autologous stem cell transplant have a poor overall prognosis. We conducted a phase II study of sorafenib (formerly BAY 43–9006) in the treatment of relapsed DLBCL. Fourteen patients were enrolled and assessed for response. Median number of cycles administered was 3 (range, 1–12). Common grade 3 toxicities included fatigue (29%), rash/desquamation (21%) and diarrhea (14%). One complete response (CR) was observed (the 14th patient enrolled). Response rate was 7% (90% CI, 0.4 – 30%). Duration of response was 6 months. Median progression-free survival (PFS) was 2 months (90% CI, 1 – 5 months). Median overall survival (OS) was 9 months (90% CI, 5 – 16 months). Although sorafenib has demonstrated activity in solid malignancies it demonstrated low single agent activity in treatment of DLBCL. PMID:23829878

The reliability of clinical decisions based on the cervical vertebrae maturation staging method.

PubMed

Sohrabi, Aydin; Babay Ahari, Sahar; Moslemzadeh, Hossein; Rafighi, Ali; Aghazadeh, Zahra

2016-02-01

Of the various techniques used to determine the optimum timing for growth modification treatments, the cervical vertebrae maturation method has great advantages, including validity and no need for extra X-ray exposure. Recently, the reproducibility of this method has been questioned. The aim of this study was to investigate the cause of poor reproducibility of this method and to assess the reproducibility of the clinical decisions made based on it. Seventy lateral cephalograms of Iranian patients aged 9‒15 years were observed twice by five experienced orthodontists. In addition to determining the developmental stage, each single parameter involved in this method was assessed in terms of inter- and intra-observer reproducibility. In order to evaluate the reproducibility of clinical decisions based on this method, cervical vertebrae maturation staging (CVMS) I and II were considered as phase 1 and CVMS IV and V were considered as phase 3. By considering the clinical approach of the CVMS method, inter-observer reproducibility of this method increased from 0.48 to 0.61 (moderate to substantial) and intra-observer reproducibility enhanced from 0.72 to 0.74. 1. Complete visualization of the first four cervical vertebrae was an inclusion criterion, which also limits the clinical application of CVMS method. 2. These results can be generalized when determining growth modification treatments solely for Class II patients. Difficulty in determining the morphology of C3 and C4 leads to poor reproducibility of the CVMS method. Despite this, it has acceptable reproducibility in determining the timing of functional treatment for Class II patients. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Orthodontic Society. All rights reserved. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Enzastaurin: A lesson in drug development.

PubMed

Bourhill, T; Narendran, A; Johnston, R N

2017-04-01

Enzastaurin is an orally administered drug that was intended for the treatment of solid and haematological cancers. It was initially developed as an isozyme specific inhibitor of protein kinase Cβ (PKCβ), which is involved in both the AKT and MAPK signalling pathways that are active in many cancers. Enzastaurin had shown encouraging preclinical results for the prevention of angiogenesis, inhibition of proliferation and induction of apoptosis as well as showing limited cytotoxicity within phase I clinical trials. However, during its assessment in phase II and III clinical trials the efficacy of enzastaurin was poor both in combination with other drugs and as a single agent. In this review, we will discuss the development of enzastaurin from drug design to clinical testing, exploring target identification, validation and preclinical assessment. Finally, we will consider the clinical evaluation of enzastaurin as an example of the challenges associated with drug development. In particular, we discuss the poor translation of drug efficacy from preclinical animal models, inappropriate end point analysis, limited standards in phase I clinical trials, insufficient use of biomarker analysis and also patient stratification, all of which contributed to the failure to achieve approval of enzastaurin as an anticancer therapeutic. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The effect of Pro NanoLipospheres (PNL) formulation containing natural absorption enhancers on the oral bioavailability of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) in a rat model.

PubMed

Cherniakov, Irina; Izgelov, Dvora; Domb, Abraham J; Hoffman, Amnon

2017-11-15

The lipophilic phytocannabinoids cannabidiol (CBD) and Δ 9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) show therapeutic efficacy in various medical conditions. Both molecules are poorly water soluble and subjected to extensive first pass metabolism in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to a limited oral bioavailability of approximately 9%. We have developed an advanced lipid based Self-Emulsifying Drug Delivery System termed Advanced Pro-NanoLiposphere (PNL) pre-concentrate. The PNL is composed of lipid and emulsifying excipients of GRAS status and are known to increase solubility and reduce Phase I metabolism of lipophilic active compounds. Advanced PNLs are PNLs with an incorporated natural absorption enhancers. These molecules are natural alkaloids and phenolic compounds which were reported to inhibit certain phase I and phase II metabolism processes. Here we use piperine, curcumin and resveratrol to formulate the Advanced-PNL formulations. Consequently, we have explored the utility of these Advanced-PNLs on CBD and THC oral bioavailability. Oral administration of CBD-piperine-PNL resulted in 6-fold increase in AUC compared to CBD solution, proving to be the most effective of the screened formulations. The same trend was found in pharmacokinetic experiments of THC-piperine-PNL which resulted in a 9.3-fold increase in AUC as compared to THC solution. Our Piperine-PNL can be used as a platform for synchronized delivery of piperine and CBD or THC to the enterocyte site. This co-localization provides an increase in CBD and THC bioavailability by its effect at the pre-enterocyte and the enterocyte levels of the absorption process. The extra augmentation in the absorption of CBD and THC by incorporating piperine into PNL is attributed to the inhibition of Phase I and phase II metabolism by piperine in addition to the Phase I metabolism and P-gp inhibition by PNL. These novel results pave the way to utilize piperine-PNL delivery system for other poorly soluble, highly metabolized compounds that currently cannot be administered orally. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Sacramento River Flood Control System Evaluation, Phases II-V. Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement/Environmental Impact Report

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-05-01

meetings, call Mr. David Gundlach, Project Manager, Corps of Engineers, at (916) 557-6675 or Mr. Ricardo Pineda , State of California, Reclamation...local Colusa Library and the nearest hearing is tonight in Yuba City. Mr. Ricardo Pineda of the State Reclamation Board sent me a copy which I...last one you had in Colusa although Mr. Pineda said v/e are now combined with Yuba City because the attendance was so poor at the Colusa one. I

Development of a discriminative biphasic in vitro dissolution test and correlation with in vivo pharmacokinetic studies for differently formulated racecadotril granules.

PubMed

Deng, Jia; Staufenbiel, Sven; Hao, Shilei; Wang, Bochu; Dashevskiy, Andriy; Bodmeier, Roland

2017-06-10

The purpose of this study was to discriminate the release behavior from three differently formulated racecadotril (BCS II) granules and to establish an in vitro-in vivo correlation. Three granule formulations of the lipophilic drug were prepared with equivalent composition but prepared with different manufacturing processes (dry granulation, wet granulation with or without binder). In vitro release of the three granules was investigated using a biphasic dissolution system (phosphate buffer pH6.8 and octanol) and compared to the conventional single phase USP II dissolution test performed under sink and non-sink conditions. In vivo studies with each granule formulation were performed in rats. Interestingly, the granule formulations exhibited pronouncedly different behavior in the different dissolution systems depending on different wetting and dissolution conditions. Single phase USP II dissolution tests lacked discrimination. In contrast, remarkable discrimination between the granule formulations was observed in the octanol phase of biphasic dissolution system with a rank order of release from granules prepared by wet granulation with binder>wet granulation without binder>dry granulation. This release order correlated well with the wettability of these granules. An excellent correlation was also established between in vitro release in the octanol phase of the biphasic test and in vivo data (R 2 =0.999). Compared to conventional dissolution methods, the biphasic method provides great potential to discriminate between only minor formulation and process changes within the same dosage form for poorly soluble drugs. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Intensified chemotherapy with stem-cell rescue in germ-cell tumors.

PubMed

Simonelli, M; Rosti, G; Banna, G L; Pedrazzoli, P

2012-04-01

Based on the high chemosensitivity of germ-cell tumors (GCTs), the concept of high-dose chemotherapy (HDCT) has been developed worldwide and investigated through many clinical trials. It has been carried out in different clinical settings, ranging from resistant or absolute refractory disease to chemosensitive relapse. HDCT with stem-cell support has been also explored as a part of first-line strategy for poor-prognosis patients. Our review summarized results from clinical trials evaluating the role of HDCT in patients with advanced GCTs. So far available data were obtained through a Medline search of English-language literature. Several phase II trials and retrospective series have shown a possible benefit for GCT patients with recurrent disease as well as in first-line setting. Despite these results, data derived from randomized phase III studies failed to demonstrate any survival advantage for HDCT over conventional chemotherapy. The role of HDCT in GCTs remains controversial. We need new prospective studies based on prognostic factors with multiple transplants of carboplatin and etoposide as the preferred high dose regimen. At present, based mainly on retrospective and phase II studies, HDCT may represent a therapeutic option for patients with primary refractory disease or for those with a second or further relapse.

Intermediate Photovoltaic System Application Experiment. Oklahoma Center for Science and Arts. Phase II. Final report

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

Not Available

This report presents the key results of the Phase II efforts for the Intermediate PV System Applications Experiment at the Oklahoma Center for Science and Arts (OCSA). This phase of the project involved fabrication, installation and integration of a nominal 140 kW flat panel PV system made up of large, square polycrystalline-silicon solar cell modules, each nominally 61 cm x 122 cm in size. The output of the PV modules, supplied by Solarex Corporation, was augmented, 1.35 to 1 at peak, by a row of glass reflectors, appropriately tilted northward. The PV system interfaces with the Oklahoma Gas and Electricmore » Utility at the OCSA main switchgear. Any excess power generated by the system is fed into the utility under a one to one buyback arrangement. Except for a shortfall in the system output, presently suspected to be due to the poor performance of the modules, no serious problems were encountered. Certain value engineering changes implemented during construction and early operational failure events associated with the power conditioning system are also described. The system is currently undergoing extended testing and evaluation.« less

Association between elder abuse and poor sleep: A cross-sectional study among rural older Malaysians.

PubMed

Yunus, Raudah Mohd; Wazid, Syeda Wasfeea; Hairi, Noran N; Choo, Wan Yuen; Hairi, Farizah M; Sooryanarayana, Rajini; Ahmad, Sharifah N; Razak, Inayah A; Peramalah, Devi; Aziz, Suriyati A; Mohamad, Zaiton L; Mohamad, Rosmala; Ali, Zainudin M; Bulgiba, Awang

2017-01-01

To examine the association between elder abuse and poor sleep using a Malay validated version of Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). This study was divided into two phases. Phase I tested the construct validity and reliability of the Malay version of PSQI. Phase II was a population-based, cross-sectional study with a multi-stage cluster sampling method. Home-based interviews were conducted by trained personnel using a structured questionnaire, to determine exposure and outcome. Kuala Pilah, a district in Negeri Sembilan which is one of the fourteen states in Malaysia. 1648 community-dwelling older Malaysians. The Malay version of PSQI had significant test re-test reliability with intra-class correlation coefficients of 0.62. Confirmatory factor analyses revealed that one factor PSQI scale with three components (subjective sleep quality, sleep latency, and sleep disturbances) was most suitable. Cronbach's Alpha was 0.60 and composite reliability was 0.63. PSQI scores were highest among neglect (4.11), followed by physical (4.10), psychological (3.96) and financial abuse (3.60). There was a dose-response relationship between clustering of abuse and PSQI scores; 3.41, 3.50 and 3.84 for "no abuse", "1 type of abuse" and "2 types or more". Generalized linear models revealed six variables as significant determinants of sleep quality-abuse, co-morbidities, self-rated health, income, social support and gait speed. Among abuse subtypes, only neglect was significantly associated with poor sleep. The Malay PSQI was valid and reliable. Abuse was significantly associated with poor sleep. As sleep is essential for health and is a good predictor for mortality among older adults, management of abuse victims should entail sleep assessment. Interventions or treatment modalities which focus on improving sleep quality among abuse victims should be designed.

Assessment of the factors affecting protective alumina formation under hot corrosion conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Task, Michael Nathan

In this study, the influence of microstructure, composition, and phase constitution on the Type I (900°C) and Type II (700°C) hot corrosion resistance of MCrAlY and β-NiAl base alloys was investigated. The Type II hot corrosion resistance of MCrAlY alloys is generally enhanced by microstructural refinement. This can be attributed to the more rapid establishment of a protective Al2O3-rich scale due to the higher density of short-circuit diffusion paths for Al (phase boundaries). However, it was shown that for a given bulk composition, the compositions of the individual phases is also extremely important. If one phase is lean in an element which is highly beneficial from a hot corrosion standpoint, e.g., Cr, Type II hot corrosion resistance is quite poor, regardless of the microstructural scale. In addition, coarse reactive-element-rich phases, which are commonly found in MCrAlY alloys, can be incorporated into the thermally grown Al2O 3 scale and act as initiation sites for Type II attack. This stresses the importance of reactive element content and distribution in MCrAlY coatings. During Type I hot corrosion exposure of β-Ni-36Al (at. %) base alloys, the incubation stage is greatly extended by the addition of 5% Pt, Co, or Cr. In each case, the beneficial effects can be linked to an enhanced ability to rapidly form a protective Al2O3 scale, and to heal this scale when it sustains damage during exposure. With regard to Type II hot corrosion, individual additions of 5 at. % Pt or Cr are beneficial, largely for the same reason; however, additions of 5 at. % Co and co-additions of 5 at. % Pt + 5 at. % Cr result in a decrease in the duration of the incubation stage. Subsurface phase transformations that occur in the latter systems prevent the alloy from maintaining the growth of the Al2O3 scale. This mechanism is discussed in detail. Finally, the influence of alloy composition and exposure environment on the kinetics of the θ→α Al2O3 transformation in scales grown on β-NiAl alloys at 900°C was thoroughly investigated. The relative importance of the kinetics of this transformation during Type I hot corrosion exposure is discussed.

Injustice at work and incidence of psychiatric morbidity: the Whitehall II study

PubMed Central

Ferrie, J E; Head, J; Shipley, M J; Vahtera, J; Marmot, M G; Kivimäki, M

2006-01-01

Background Previous studies of organisational justice and mental health have mostly examined women and have not examined the effect of change in justice. Aim To examine effects of change in the treatment of employees by supervisors (the relational component of organisational justice) on minor psychiatric morbidity, using a cohort with a large proportion of men. Methods Data are from the Whitehall II study, a prospective cohort of 10 308 white‐collar British civil servants (3143 women and 6895 men, aged 35–55 at baseline) (Phase 1, 1985–88). Employment grade, relational justice, job demands, job control, social support at work, effort–reward imbalance, physical illness, and psychiatric morbidity were measured at baseline. Relational justice was assessed again at Phase 2 (1989–90). The outcome was cases of psychiatric morbidity by Phases 2 and 3 (1991–93) among participants case‐free at baseline. Results In analyses adjusted for age, grade, and baseline physical illness, women and men exposed to low relational justice at Phase 1 were at higher risk of psychiatric morbidity by Phases 2 and 3. Adjustment for other psychosocial work characteristics, particularly social support and effort–reward imbalance, partially attenuated these associations. A favourable change in justice between Phase 1 and Phase 2 reduced the immediate risk (Phase 2) of psychiatric morbidity, while an adverse change increased the immediate and longer term risk (Phase 3). Conclusion This study shows that unfair treatment by supervisors increases risk of poor mental health. It appears that the employers' duty to ensure that employees are treated fairly at work also has benefits for health. PMID:16698805

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.

Motor testing at 1 year improves the prediction of motor and mental outcome at 2 years after perinatal hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy.

PubMed

van Schie, Petra E M; Becher, Jules G; Dallmeijer, Annet J; Barkhof, Frederik; Van Weissenbruch, Mirjam M; Vermeulen, R Jeroen

2010-01-01

To investigate the predictive value of motor testing at 1 year for motor and mental outcome at 2 years after perinatal hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE) in term neonates. Motor and mental outcome at 2 years was assessed with the Bayley Scales of Infant Development, 2nd edition (BSID-II) in 32 surviving children (20 males, 12 females; mean gestational age 40.2 wk, SD 1.4; mean birthweight 3217g, SD 435) participating in a prospective cohort study of HIE. The predictive value of three motor tests (Alberta Infant Motor Scale [AIMS], BSID-II, and the Neurological Optimality Score [NOS]) at 1 year was analysed, in addition to predictions based on neonatal Sarnat staging and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Poor motor test results were defined as an AIMS z-score of <-2, a psychomotor developmental index of the BSID-II of <70, or a NOS of <26. Poor motor and poor mental outcome at 2 years was defined as a psychomotor developmental index or mental developmental index of the BSID-II of <70. Twelve children, all with Sarnat grade II, had a poor motor outcome and 12 children, of whom one had Sarnat grade I, had a poor mental outcome at 2 years. Nine children had cerebral palsy, of whom five had quadriplegia, three had dyskinesia, and one had hemiplegia. Poor motor tests at 1 year increased the probability of a poor motor outcome from 71% (range 92 to 100%), and a poor mental outcome from 59% (range 77 to 100%) in children with Sarnat grade II and abnormal MRI, assessed with the AIMS and BSID-II or NOS respectively. Additional motor testing at 1 year improves the prediction of motor and mental outcome at 2 years in children with Sarnat grade II and abnormal MRI.

Erlotinib as a single agent in select subsets of patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer.

PubMed

Carrión, Ramón Pérez; Gracián, Antonio Cubillo; Hernandez, Pedro Salinas

2007-07-01

Erlotinib is an orally active inhibitor of the epidermal growth factor receptor that is effective for the treatment of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Patients with a poor performance status (PS) of 2 constitute up to 40% of advanced NSCLC. This group of patients have a lower life expectancy and are thought to have a greater degree of treatment-related toxicity. The clinical benefit on 238 patients with poor PS included in an open-label, nonrandomized, phase II trial of erlotinib in advanced/metastatic NSCLC was 57.58% defined as complete response plus partial response plus stable disease. Median time to progression was 2.9 months. This review will summarize available data about erlotinib on patients with a PS of 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.

Advances in immunotherapy for the treatment of glioblastoma.

PubMed

Tivnan, Amanda; Heilinger, Tatjana; Lavelle, Ed C; Prehn, Jochen H M

2017-01-01

Glioblastoma (GBM) is an aggressive brain tumour, associated with extremely poor prognosis and although there have been therapeutic advances, treatment options remain limited. This review focuses on the use of immunotherapy, harnessing the power of the host's immune system to reject cancer cells. Key challenges in glioma specific immunotherapy as with many other cancers are the limited immunogenicity of the cancer cells and the immunosuppressive environment of the tumour. Although specific antigens have been identified in several cancers; brain tumours, such as GBM, are considered poorly immunogenic. However, as detailed in this review, strategies aimed at circumventing these challenges are showing promise for GBM treatment; including identification of glioma specific antigens and endogenous immune cell activation in an attempt to overcome the immunosuppressive environment which is associated with GBM tumours. An up-to-date summary of current Phase I/II and ongoing Phase III GBM immunotherapy clinical trials is provided in addition to insights into promising preclinical approaches which are focused predominantly on increased induction of Type 1 helper T cell (T h 1) immune responses within patients.

Anti-cancer effects of curcumin on head and neck cancers.

PubMed

Gao, Wei; Chan, Jimmy Yu-Wai; Wei, William Ignance; Wong, Thian-Sze

2012-11-01

Head and neck cancer is the sixth large type of cancer in the world. The treatment regimens for head and neck cancer encompass surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. However, all current treatment regimens for head and neck cancer have adverse effects. Therefore, continuing investigations have been undertaken to seek less toxic therapies to reduce treatment morbidity for head and neck cancer. Substantial evidence has demonstrated that curcumin inhibited proliferation, migration, invasion and metastasis and induced apoptosis via modulating multiple signaling pathways in head and neck cancer. Curcumin also suppressed the growth of xenograft derived from head and neck cancer in vivo in animal models. This review summarizes the evidence demonstrating potential use of curcumin as a single chemotherapeutic agent or in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents and radiation to minimize their toxicity in head and neck cancer. Although curcumin has been shown to be safe at doses of 8 g/d in both phase I and phase II clinical trials, its bioavailability is poor. Overcoming the poor bioavailability of curcumin in the near future would facilitate its clinical use.

CYP2D6 *6/*6 genotype and drug interactions as cause of haloperidol-induced extrapyramidal symptoms.

PubMed

Šimić, Iveta; Potočnjak, Ines; Kraljičković, Iva; Stanić Benić, Mirjana; Čegec, Ivana; Juričić Nahal, Danica; Ganoci, Lana; Božina, Nada

2016-08-01

A 66-year-old male Caucasian, received 1 mg of haloperidol orally and rapidly developed severe iatrogenic extrapyramidal symptoms. Treatment was immediately discontinued, and the side effects resolved. Haloperidol is mainly metabolized by Phase I CYP2D6 and to the lesser extent by CYP3A4 and by Phase II UGT2B7 enzymes. Genotyping was performed revealing CYP2D6*6/*6, CYP3A4*1/*1, and UGT2B7 -161 C/T genotypes, implicating poor, extensive and intermediate metabolism, respectively. Of the CYPs, haloperidol is metabolized by CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 primarily. It was the introduction of ciprofloxacin which was a trigger for the development of adverse drug reaction due to inhibition of CYP3A4, which was in presented patient main metabolic pathway for haloperidol since he was CYP2D6 poor metabolizer. Presented case report highlights the importance of genotyping. Pharmacogenetics testing should be considered when drug toxicity is suspected, polymorphic metabolic pathways used and drugs concomitantly applied.

Exploring the SDSS Data Set with Linked Scatter Plots. I. EMP, CEMP, and CV Stars

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

Carbon, Duane F.; Henze, Christopher; Nelson, Bron C., E-mail: Duane.F.Carbon@nasa.gov

We present the results of a search for extremely metal-poor (EMP), carbon-enhanced metal-poor (CEMP), and cataclysmic variable (CV) stars using a new exploration tool based on linked scatter plots (LSPs). Our approach is especially designed to work with very large spectrum data sets such as the SDSS, LAMOST, RAVE, and Gaia data sets, and it can be applied to stellar, galaxy, and quasar spectra. As a demonstration, we conduct our search using the SDSS DR10 data set. We first created a 3326-dimensional phase space containing nearly 2 billion measures of the strengths of over 1600 spectral features in 569,738 SDSSmore » stars. These measures capture essentially all the stellar atomic and molecular species visible at the resolution of SDSS spectra. We show how LSPs can be used to quickly isolate and examine interesting portions of this phase space. To illustrate, we use LSPs coupled with cuts in selected portions of phase space to extract EMP stars, CEMP stars, and CV stars. We present identifications for 59 previously unrecognized candidate EMP stars and 11 previously unrecognized candidate CEMP stars. We also call attention to 2 candidate He ii emission CV stars found by the LSP approach that have not yet been discussed in the literature.« less

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Exploring the SDSS data set. I. EMP & CV stars (Carbon+, 2017)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carbon, D. F.; Henze, C.; Nelson, B. C.

2017-08-01

We present the results of a search for extremely metal-poor (EMP), carbon-enhanced metal-poor (CEMP), and cataclysmic variable (CV) stars using a new exploration tool based on linked scatter plots (LSPs). Our approach is especially designed to work with very large spectrum data sets such as the SDSS, LAMOST, RAVE, and Gaia data sets, and it can be applied to stellar, galaxy, and quasar spectra. As a demonstration, we conduct our search using the SDSS DR10 data set. We first created a 3326-dimensional phase space containing nearly 2 billion measures of the strengths of over 1600 spectral features in 569738 SDSS stars. These measures capture essentially all the stellar atomic and molecular species visible at the resolution of SDSS spectra. We show how LSPs can be used to quickly isolate and examine interesting portions of this phase space. To illustrate, we use LSPs coupled with cuts in selected portions of phase space to extract EMP stars, CEMP stars, and CV stars. We present identifications for 59 previously unrecognized candidate EMP stars and 11 previously unrecognized candidate CEMP stars. We also call attention to 2 candidate He II emission CV stars found by the LSP approach that have not yet been discussed in the literature. (3 data files).

Exploring the SDSS Data Set with Linked Scatter Plots. I. EMP, CEMP, and CV Stars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carbon, Duane F.; Henze, Christopher; Nelson, Bron C.

2017-02-01

We present the results of a search for extremely metal-poor (EMP), carbon-enhanced metal-poor (CEMP), and cataclysmic variable (CV) stars using a new exploration tool based on linked scatter plots (LSPs). Our approach is especially designed to work with very large spectrum data sets such as the SDSS, LAMOST, RAVE, and Gaia data sets, and it can be applied to stellar, galaxy, and quasar spectra. As a demonstration, we conduct our search using the SDSS DR10 data set. We first created a 3326-dimensional phase space containing nearly 2 billion measures of the strengths of over 1600 spectral features in 569,738 SDSS stars. These measures capture essentially all the stellar atomic and molecular species visible at the resolution of SDSS spectra. We show how LSPs can be used to quickly isolate and examine interesting portions of this phase space. To illustrate, we use LSPs coupled with cuts in selected portions of phase space to extract EMP stars, CEMP stars, and CV stars. We present identifications for 59 previously unrecognized candidate EMP stars and 11 previously unrecognized candidate CEMP stars. We also call attention to 2 candidate He II emission CV stars found by the LSP approach that have not yet been discussed in the literature.

Paclitaxel, Ifosfamide, and Cisplatin Efficacy for First-Line Treatment of Patients With Intermediate- or Poor-Risk Germ Cell Tumors

PubMed Central

Hu, James; Dorff, Tanya B.; Lim, Kristina; Patil, Sujata; Woo, Kaitlin M.; Carousso, Maryann; Hughes, Amanda; Sheinfeld, Joel; Bains, Manjit; Daneshmand, Siamak; Ketchens, Charlene; Bajorin, Dean F.; Bosl, George J.; Quinn, David I.; Motzer, Robert J.

2016-01-01

Purpose Paclitaxel, ifosfamide, and cisplatin (TIP) achieved complete responses (CRs) in two thirds of patients with advanced germ cell tumors (GCTs) who relapsed after first-line chemotherapy with cisplatin and etoposide with or without bleomycin. We tested the efficacy of first-line TIP in patients with intermediate- or poor-risk disease. Patients and Methods In this prospective, multicenter, single-arm phase II trial, previously untreated patients with International Germ Cell Cancer Collaborative Group poor-risk or modified intermediate-risk GCTs received four cycles of TIP (paclitaxel 240 mg/m2 over 2 days, ifosfamide 6 g/m2 over 5 days with mesna support, and cisplatin 100 mg/m2 over 5 days) once every 3 weeks with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor support. The primary end point was the CR rate. Results Of the first 41 evaluable patients, 28 (68%) achieved a CR, meeting the primary efficacy end point. After additional accrual on an extension phase, total enrollment was 60 patients, including 40 (67%) with poor risk and 20 (33%) with intermediate risk. Thirty-eight (68%) of 56 evaluable patients achieved a CR and seven (13%) achieved partial responses with negative markers (PR-negative) for a favorable response rate of 80%. Five of seven achieving PR-negative status had seminoma and therefore did not undergo postchemotherapy resection of residual masses. Estimated 3-year progression-free survival and overall survival rates were 72% (poor risk, 63%; intermediate risk, 90%) and 91% (poor risk, 87%; intermediate risk, 100%), respectively. Grade 3 to 4 toxicities consisted primarily of reversible hematologic or electrolyte abnormalities, including neutropenic fever in 18%. Conclusion TIP demonstrated efficacy as first-line therapy for intermediate- and poor-risk GCTs with an acceptable safety profile. Given higher rates of favorable response, progression-free survival, and overall survival compared with prior first-line studies, TIP warrants further study in this population. PMID:27185842

Development of clinical dosage forms for a poorly water-soluble drug II: formulation and characterization of a novel solid microemulsion preconcentrate system for oral delivery of a poorly water-soluble drug.

PubMed

Li, Ping; Hynes, Sara R; Haefele, Thomas F; Pudipeddi, Madhu; Royce, Alan E; Serajuddin, Abu T M

2009-05-01

The solution of a poorly water-soluble drug in a liquid lipid-surfactant mixture, which served as a microemulsion preconcentrate, was converted into a solid form by incorporating it in a solid polyethylene glycol (PEG) matrix. The solid microemulsion preconcentrates thus formed consisted of Capmul PG8 (propylene glycol monocaprylate) as oil, Cremophor EL (polyoxyl 35 castor oil) as surfactant, and hydrophilic polymer PEG 3350 as solid matrix. The drug (aqueous solubility: 0.17 microg/mL at pH 1-8 and 25 degrees C) was dissolved in a melt of the mixture at 65-70 degrees C and then the hot solution was filled into hard gelatin capsules; the liquid gradually solidified upon cooling below 55 degrees C. The solid system was characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), confocal Raman microscopy (CRM), and the dispersion testing in water. It was confirmed that a solid microemulsion preconcentrate is a two-phase system, where clusters of crystalline PEG 3350 formed the solid structure (m.p. 55-60 degrees C) and the liquid microemulsion preconcentrate dispersed in between PEG 3350 crystals as a separate phase. The drug remained dissolved in the liquid phase. In vitro release testing showed that the preconcentrate dispersed readily in water forming a microemulsion with the drug dissolved in the oil particles (<150 nm) and the presence of PEG 3350 did not interfere with the process of self-microemulsification.

Resource-poor settings: response, recovery, and research: care of the critically ill and injured during pandemics and disasters: CHEST consensus statement.

PubMed

Geiling, James; Burkle, Frederick M; West, T Eoin; Uyeki, Timothy M; Amundson, Dennis; Dominguez-Cherit, Guillermo; Gomersall, Charles D; Lim, Matthew L; Luyckx, Valerie; Sarani, Babak; Christian, Michael D; Devereaux, Asha V; Dichter, Jeffrey R; Kissoon, Niranjan

2014-10-01

Planning for mass critical care in resource-poor and constrained settings has been largely ignored, despite large, densely crowded populations who are prone to suffer disproportionately from natural disasters. As a result, disaster response has been suboptimal and in many instances hampered by lack of planning, education and training, information, and communication. The Resource-Poor Settings panel developed five key question domains; defining the term resource poor and using the traditional phases of the disaster cycle (mitigation/preparedness/response/recovery). Literature searches were conducted to identify evidence to answer the key questions in these areas. Given a lack of data on which to develop evidence-based recommendations, expert-opinion suggestions were developed, and consensus was achieved using a modified Delphi process. The five key questions were as follows: definition, capacity building and mitigation, what resources can we bring to bear to assist/surge, response, and reconstitution and recovery of host nation critical care capabilities. Addressing these led the panel to offer 33 suggestions. Because of the large number of suggestions, the results have been separated into two sections: part I, Infrastructure/Capacity in the accompanying article, and part II, Response/Recovery/Research in this article. A lack of rudimentary ICU resources and capacity to enhance services plagues resource-poor or constrained settings. Capacity building therefore entails preventative strategies and strengthening of primary health services. Assistance from other countries and organizations is often needed to mount a surge response. Moreover, the disengagement of these responding groups and host country recovery require active planning. Future improvements in all phases require active research activities.

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

Toczydlowska, Diana; Kedra-Krolik, Karolina; Nejbert, Krzysztof

The role of surface electrostatics on the reductive dissolution of iron (III) oxides is poorly understood, despite its importance in controlling the amount of mobilized iron. We report the potentiometric titration of the a; y -Fe2O3 oxides exposed to reductants and complexing ligands (Fe(II), ascorbate, oxalate, malonate). We monitored in situ surface and potentials, the ratio of mobilized ferric to ferrous ions, and periodically analyzed nanoparticle crystal structure using X-ray diffraction. We found that addition of Fe2+ ions produces a response consistent with the iron solubilityactivity curve, whereas the presence of ascorbate significantly decreases the amount of mobilized Fe(III) duemore » to reduction to Fe(II). In addition, XRD analysis proved that y-Fe2O3 particles remain structurally unchanged along the titration pathway despite iron cycling between aqueous and solid reservoirs. Our studies, suggest that the surface redoxactivity of iron oxides is primarily governed by the balance between Fe(III) and Fe(II) ions in aqueous phase, which may be easily altered by complexing and reducing agents.« less

New insights into the mineralogy of the Atlantis II Deep metalliferous sediments, Red Sea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Laurila, Tea E.; Hannington, Mark D.; Leybourne, Matthew; Petersen, Sven; Devey, Colin W.; Garbe-Schönberg, Dieter

2015-12-01

The Atlantis II Deep of the Red Sea hosts the largest known hydrothermal ore deposit on the ocean floor and the only modern analog of brine pool-type metal deposition. The deposit consists mainly of chemical-clastic sediments with input from basin-scale hydrothermal and detrital sources. A characteristic feature is the millimeter-scale layering of the sediments, which bears a strong resemblance to banded iron formation (BIF). Quantitative assessment of the mineralogy based on relogging of archived cores, detailed petrography, and sequential leaching experiments shows that Fe-(oxy)hydroxides, hydrothermal carbonates, sulfides, and authigenic clays are the main "ore" minerals. Mn-oxides were mainly deposited when the brine pool was more oxidized than it is today, but detailed logging shows that Fe-deposition and Mn-deposition also alternated at the scale of individual laminae, reflecting short-term fluctuations in the Lower Brine. Previous studies underestimated the importance of nonsulfide metal-bearing components, which formed by metal adsorption onto poorly crystalline Si-Fe-OOH particles. During diagenesis, the crystallinity of all phases increased, and the fine layering of the sediment was enhanced. Within a few meters of burial (corresponding to a few thousand years of deposition), biogenic (Ca)-carbonate was dissolved, manganosiderite formed, and metals originally in poorly crystalline phases or in pore water were incorporated into diagenetic sulfides, clays, and Fe-oxides. Permeable layers with abundant radiolarian tests were the focus for late-stage hydrothermal alteration and replacement, including deposition of amorphous silica and enrichment in elements such as Ba and Au.

The current status of neoadjuvant therapy for esophageal cancer.

PubMed

Lin, Daniel; Leichman, Lawrence

2014-01-01

Through the contribution of a very large number of single-arm phase II trials and many less randomized phase III trials, the standard of care for locally advanced esophageal cancer has evolved to either combination chemotherapy plus radiation or combination chemotherapy. In this review, we focus on the key findings of these studies and selected meta-analyses that have led to this evolution. We note differences in outcomes for adenocarcinomas of the esophagus when compared to squamous cell esophageal cancers. Despite progress in developing a consensus for therapy, the outcome for patients with locally advanced remains poor. We complete the review by noting newer areas of investigation seeking to provide targeted and more personalized therapy to patients with esophageal cancer. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Biomineralization of As(V)-hydrous ferric oxyhydroxide in microbial mats of an acid-sulfate-chloride geothermal spring, Yellowstone National Park

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Inskeep, William P.; Macur, Richard E.; Harrison, Gregory; Bostick, Benjamin C.; Fendorf, Scott

2004-08-01

Acid-sulfate-chloride (pH˜3) geothermal springs in Yellowstone National Park (YNP) often contain Fe(II), As(III), and S(-II) at discharge, providing several electron donors for chemolithotrophic metabolism. The microbial populations inhabiting these environments are inextricably linked with geochemical processes controlling the behavior of As and Fe. Consequently, the objectives of the current study were to (i) characterize Fe-rich microbial mats of an ASC thermal spring, (ii) evaluate the composition and structure of As-rich hydrous ferric oxides (HFO) associated with these mats, and (iii) identify microorganisms that are potentially responsible for mat formation via the oxidation of Fe(II) and or As(III). Aqueous and solid phase mat samples obtained from a spring in Norris Basin, YNP (YNP Thermal Inventory NHSP35) were analyzed using a complement of chemical, microscopic and spectroscopic techniques. In addition, molecular analysis (16S rDNA) was used to identify potentially dominant microbial populations within different mat locations. The biomineralization of As-rich HFO occurs in the presence of nearly equimolar aqueous As(III) and As(V) (˜12 μM), and ˜ 48 μM Fe(II), forming sheaths external to microbial cell walls. These solid phases were found to be poorly ordered nanocrystalline HFO containing mole ratios of As(V):Fe(III) of 0.62 ± 0.02. The bonding environment of As(V) and Fe(III) is consistent with adsorption of arsenate on edge and corner positions of Fe(III)-OH octahedra. Numerous archaeal and bacterial sequences were identified (with no closely related cultured relatives), along with several 16S sequences that are closely related to Acidimicrobium, Thiomonas, Metallosphaera and Marinithermus isolates. Several of these cultured relatives have been implicated in Fe(II) and or As(III) oxidation in other low pH, high Fe, and high As environments (e.g. acid-mine drainage). The unique composition and morphologies of the biomineralized phases may be useful as modern-day analogs for identifying microbial life in past Fe-As rich environments.

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.

Improving Adolescent Health Risk Assessment: A Multi-method Pilot Study.

PubMed

Thompson, Lindsay A; Wegman, Martin; Muller, Keith; Eddleton, Katie Z; Muszynski, Michael; Rathore, Mobeen; De Leon, Jessica; Shenkman, Elizabeth A

2016-12-01

Objectives Given poor compliance by providers with adolescent health risk assessment (HRA) in primary care, we describe the development and feasibility of using a health information technology (HIT)-enhanced HRA to improve the frequency of HRAs in diverse clinical settings, asking adolescents' recall of quality of care as a primary outcome. Methods We conducted focus groups and surveys with key stakeholders (Phase I) , including adolescents, clinic staff and providers to design and implement an intervention in a practice-based research network delivering private, comprehensive HRAs via tablet (Phase II). Providers and adolescents received geo-coded community resources according to individualized risks. Following the point-of-care implementation , we collected patient-reported outcomes using post-visit quality surveys (Phase III). Patient-reported outcomes from intervention and comparison clinics were analyzed using a mixed-model, fitted separately for each survey domain. Results Stakeholders agreed upon an HIT-enhanced HRA (Phase I). Twenty-two academic and community practices in north-central Florida then recruited 609 diverse adolescents (14-18 years) during primary care visits over 6 months; (mean patients enrolled = 28; median = 20; range 1-116; Phase II). Adolescents receiving the intervention later reported higher receipt of confidential/private care and counseling related to emotions and relationships (adjusted scores 0.42 vs 0.08 out of 1.0, p < .01; 0.85 vs 0.57, p < .001, respectively, Phase III) than those receiving usual care. Both are important quality indicators for adolescent well-child visits. Conclusions Stakeholder input was critical to the acceptability of the HIT-enhanced HRA. Patient recruitment data indicate that the intervention was feasible in a variety of clinical settings and the pilot evaluation data indicate that the intervention may improve adolescents' perceptions of high quality care.

Association between elder abuse and poor sleep: A cross-sectional study among rural older Malaysians

PubMed Central

Hairi, Noran N.; Choo, Wan Yuen; Hairi, Farizah M.; Sooryanarayana, Rajini; Ahmad, Sharifah N.; Razak, Inayah A.; Peramalah, Devi; Aziz, Suriyati A.; Mohamad, Zaiton L.; Mohamad, Rosmala; Ali, Zainudin M.; Awang Mahmud, Awang B.

2017-01-01

Objectives To examine the association between elder abuse and poor sleep using a Malay validated version of Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Design This study was divided into two phases. Phase I tested the construct validity and reliability of the Malay version of PSQI. Phase II was a population-based, cross-sectional study with a multi-stage cluster sampling method. Home-based interviews were conducted by trained personnel using a structured questionnaire, to determine exposure and outcome. Setting Kuala Pilah, a district in Negeri Sembilan which is one of the fourteen states in Malaysia. Participants 1648 community-dwelling older Malaysians. Results The Malay version of PSQI had significant test re-test reliability with intra-class correlation coefficients of 0.62. Confirmatory factor analyses revealed that one factor PSQI scale with three components (subjective sleep quality, sleep latency, and sleep disturbances) was most suitable. Cronbach’s Alpha was 0.60 and composite reliability was 0.63. PSQI scores were highest among neglect (4.11), followed by physical (4.10), psychological (3.96) and financial abuse (3.60). There was a dose-response relationship between clustering of abuse and PSQI scores; 3.41, 3.50 and 3.84 for “no abuse”, “1 type of abuse” and “2 types or more”. Generalized linear models revealed six variables as significant determinants of sleep quality–abuse, co-morbidities, self-rated health, income, social support and gait speed. Among abuse subtypes, only neglect was significantly associated with poor sleep. Conclusion The Malay PSQI was valid and reliable. Abuse was significantly associated with poor sleep. As sleep is essential for health and is a good predictor for mortality among older adults, management of abuse victims should entail sleep assessment. Interventions or treatment modalities which focus on improving sleep quality among abuse victims should be designed. PMID:28686603

Coexistence of two electronic phases in LaTiO3+δ (0.01⩽δ⩽0.12) and their evolution with δ

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, H. D.; Goodenough, J. B.

2005-04-01

Although LaTiO3+δ(0.01⩽δ⩽0.12) is single-phase to powder x-ray diffraction, its properties reveal that a hole-poor strongly correlated electronic phase coexists with a hole-rich itinerant-electron phase. With δ⩽0.03 , the hole-rich phase exists as a minority phase of isolated, mobile itinerant-electron clusters embedded in the hole-poor phase. With δ⩾0.08 , isolated hole-poor clusters are embedded in an itinerant-electron matrix. As δ>0.08 increases, the hole-poor clusters become smaller and more isolated until they are reduced to superparamagnetic strong-correlation fluctuations by δ=0.12 . This behavior is consistent with prediction from the virial theorem of a first-order phase change at the crossover from localized (or strongly correlated) to itinerant electronic behavior, a smaller equilibrium (Ti-O) bond length being in the itinerant-electron phase. Accordingly, the variation of volume with oxidation state does not obey Végard’s law; the itinerant-electron minority phase exerts a compressive force on the hole-poor matrix, and the hole-poor minority phase exerts a tensile stress on the hole-rich matrix.

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...

Evolution of a mini-scale biphasic dissolution model: Impact of model parameters on partitioning of dissolved API and modelling of in vivo-relevant kinetics.

PubMed

Locher, Kathrin; Borghardt, Jens M; Frank, Kerstin J; Kloft, Charlotte; Wagner, Karl G

2016-08-01

Biphasic dissolution models are proposed to have good predictive power for the in vivo absorption. The aim of this study was to improve our previously introduced mini-scale dissolution model to mimic in vivo situations more realistically and to increase the robustness of the experimental model. Six dissolved APIs (BCS II) were tested applying the improved mini-scale biphasic dissolution model (miBIdi-pH-II). The influence of experimental model parameters including various excipients, API concentrations, dual paddle and its rotation speed was investigated. The kinetics in the biphasic model was described applying a one- and four-compartment pharmacokinetic (PK) model. The improved biphasic dissolution model was robust related to differing APIs and excipient concentrations. The dual paddle guaranteed homogenous mixing in both phases; the optimal rotation speed was 25 and 75rpm for the aqueous and the octanol phase, respectively. A one-compartment PK model adequately characterised the data of fully dissolved APIs. A four-compartment PK model best quantified dissolution, precipitation, and partitioning also of undissolved amounts due to realistic pH profiles. The improved dissolution model is a powerful tool for investigating the interplay between dissolution, precipitation and partitioning of various poorly soluble APIs (BCS II). In vivo-relevant PK parameters could be estimated applying respective PK models. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

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.

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.

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...

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...

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...

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...

What Constitutes Poor Teaching? A Preliminary Inquiry into the Misbehaviors of Not-So-Good Instructors

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Busler, Jessica; Kirk, Claire; Keeley, Jared; Buskist, William

2017-01-01

Across three phases, we investigated college students' perceptions of poor college teaching to develop a typology of poor teaching behaviors. In Phase 1, students generated a list of qualities representative of poor teaching. In Phase 2, another group of students assigned behavioral correspondents to these qualities, resulting in a list of 15 poor…

Protein-DNA interactions define the mechanistic aspects of circle formation and insertion reactions in IS2 transposition.

PubMed

Lewis, Leslie A; Astatke, Mekbib; Umekubo, Peter T; Alvi, Shaheen; Saby, Robert; Afrose, Jehan; Oliveira, Pedro H; Monteiro, Gabriel A; Prazeres, Duarte Mf

2012-01-26

Transposition in IS3, IS30, IS21 and IS256 insertion sequence (IS) families utilizes an unconventional two-step pathway. A figure-of-eight intermediate in Step I, from asymmetric single-strand cleavage and joining reactions, is converted into a double-stranded minicircle whose junction (the abutted left and right ends) is the substrate for symmetrical transesterification attacks on target DNA in Step II, suggesting intrinsically different synaptic complexes (SC) for each step. Transposases of these ISs bind poorly to cognate DNA and comparative biophysical analyses of SC I and SC II have proven elusive. We have prepared a native, soluble, active, GFP-tagged fusion derivative of the IS2 transposase that creates fully formed complexes with single-end and minicircle junction (MCJ) substrates and used these successfully in hydroxyl radical footprinting experiments. In IS2, Step I reactions are physically and chemically asymmetric; the left imperfect, inverted repeat (IRL), the exclusive recipient end, lacks donor function. In SC I, different protection patterns of the cleavage domains (CDs) of the right imperfect inverted repeat (IRR; extensive in cis) and IRL (selective in trans) at the single active cognate IRR catalytic center (CC) are related to their donor and recipient functions. In SC II, extensive binding of the IRL CD in trans and of the abutted IRR CD in cis at this CC represents the first phase of the complex. An MCJ substrate precleaved at the 3' end of IRR revealed a temporary transition state with the IRL CD disengaged from the protein. We propose that in SC II, sequential 3' cleavages at the bound abutted CDs trigger a conformational change, allowing the IRL CD to complex to its cognate CC, producing the second phase. Corroborating data from enhanced residues and curvature propensity plots suggest that CD to CD interactions in SC I and SC II require IRL to assume a bent structure, to facilitate binding in trans. Different transpososomes are assembled in each step of the IS2 transposition pathway. Recipient versus donor end functions of the IRL CD in SC I and SC II and the conformational change in SC II that produces the phase needed for symmetrical IRL and IRR donor attacks on target DNA highlight the differences.

Protein-DNA interactions define the mechanistic aspects of circle formation and insertion reactions in IS2 transposition

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Transposition in IS3, IS30, IS21 and IS256 insertion sequence (IS) families utilizes an unconventional two-step pathway. A figure-of-eight intermediate in Step I, from asymmetric single-strand cleavage and joining reactions, is converted into a double-stranded minicircle whose junction (the abutted left and right ends) is the substrate for symmetrical transesterification attacks on target DNA in Step II, suggesting intrinsically different synaptic complexes (SC) for each step. Transposases of these ISs bind poorly to cognate DNA and comparative biophysical analyses of SC I and SC II have proven elusive. We have prepared a native, soluble, active, GFP-tagged fusion derivative of the IS2 transposase that creates fully formed complexes with single-end and minicircle junction (MCJ) substrates and used these successfully in hydroxyl radical footprinting experiments. Results In IS2, Step I reactions are physically and chemically asymmetric; the left imperfect, inverted repeat (IRL), the exclusive recipient end, lacks donor function. In SC I, different protection patterns of the cleavage domains (CDs) of the right imperfect inverted repeat (IRR; extensive in cis) and IRL (selective in trans) at the single active cognate IRR catalytic center (CC) are related to their donor and recipient functions. In SC II, extensive binding of the IRL CD in trans and of the abutted IRR CD in cis at this CC represents the first phase of the complex. An MCJ substrate precleaved at the 3' end of IRR revealed a temporary transition state with the IRL CD disengaged from the protein. We propose that in SC II, sequential 3' cleavages at the bound abutted CDs trigger a conformational change, allowing the IRL CD to complex to its cognate CC, producing the second phase. Corroborating data from enhanced residues and curvature propensity plots suggest that CD to CD interactions in SC I and SC II require IRL to assume a bent structure, to facilitate binding in trans. Conclusions Different transpososomes are assembled in each step of the IS2 transposition pathway. Recipient versus donor end functions of the IRL CD in SC I and SC II and the conformational change in SC II that produces the phase needed for symmetrical IRL and IRR donor attacks on target DNA highlight the differences. PMID:22277150

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

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.

The role of S(II) and Pb(II) in xanthate flotation of smithsonite: Surface properties and mechanism

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jia, Kai; Feng, Qiming; Zhang, Guofan; Ji, Wanying; Zhang, Wukai; Yang, Bingqian

2018-06-01

Smithsonite is a readily dissolvable carbonate mineral that is naturally hydrophilic, making recovery of this ore by flotation difficult. The flotation results showed that conditioning with only sodium sulfide (Na2S) did not successfully allow the smithsonite samples to float, whereas treatment with a combination of S(II), Pb(II) and xanthate (with Na2S as the sulfurizing reagent, lead ions (Pb(II)) as the activator, and xanthate as the collector) improved the flotation of smithsonite, achieving a mass recovery of 95.8%. A combination of analytical techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), in conjunction with depth profiling, was used to investigate the chemical nature of the sulfur and lead species on the smithsonite surface. For S(II)-conditioned smithsonite, a layer of ZnS formed on the smithsonite (ZnCO3) substrates; this newly formed ZnS coating was amorphous or poorly crystallized. For smithsonite samples conditioned with S(II) and Pb(II), the microstructures and the phase constituents, obtained by AFM and XRD analyses, confirmed the formation of the PbS species with a cubic galena structure on the surface. XPS depth profiling showed that the PbS layer was 18-nm thick, which corresponds to 30 PbS molecular layers. This study presents direct evidence that the coating of the activation product, PbS, on the smithsonite surface was similar to a relatively thick galena layer, which led to successful flotation.

Curcumin analog 1, 5-bis (2-trifluoromethylphenyl)-1, 4-pentadien-3-one exhibits enhanced ability on Nrf2 activation and protection against acrolein-induced ARPE-19 cell toxicity

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

Li, Yuan; Zou, Xuan; Cao, Ke

2013-11-01

Curcumin, a phytochemical agent in the spice turmeric, has received increasing attention for its anticancer, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, application of curcumin has been limited due to its insolubility in water and poor bioavailability both clinically and experimentally. In addition, the protective effects and mechanisms of curcumin in eye diseases have been poorly studied. In the present study, we synthesized a curcumin analog, 1, 5-bis (2-trifluoromethylphenyl)-1, 4-pentadien-3-one (C3), which displayed improved protective effect against acrolein-induced toxicity in a human retinal pigment epithelial cell line (ARPE-19). At 5 μM, curcumin completely protected against acrolein-induced cell oxidative damage and preserved GSHmore » levels and mitochondrial function. Surprisingly, C3 displayed a complete protective effect at 0.5 μM, which was much more efficient than curcumin. Both 0.5 μM C3 and 5 μM curcumin induced Nrf2 nuclear translocation and Nrf2 target genes transcription similarly. Experiments using Nrf2 siRNA showed that the protective effects of curcumin and C3 were eliminated by Nrf2 knockdown. Additionally, both curcumin and C3 activated the PI3/Akt pathway, however, Nrf2 activation was independent of this pathway, and therefore, we hypothesized that both curcumin and C3 activated phase II enzymes via directly disrupting the Nrf2/Keap1 complex and promoting Nrf2's nuclear translocation. Since acrolein challenge of ARPE-19 cells has been used as a model of smoking and age-related macular degeneration (AMD), we concluded that the curcumin analog, C3, may be a more promising drug candidate for its potential application for the prevention and treatment of eye diseases, such as AMD. - Highlights: • We examine toxicity effects of cigarette smoking component acrolein in retina cells. • We report a more efficient curcumin analog (C3) protecting cellular function. • Mitochondrial function and phase II enzyme activation are the major targets of C3. • C3 is ten-fold more potent than curcumin on activating Nrf2 nuclear translocation. • Nrf2 translocation and Phase II enzyme induction are independent of PI3K/Akt pathway.« less

Recrystallization of Manganite (γ-MnOOH) and Implications for Trace Element Cycling.

PubMed

Hens, Tobias; Brugger, Joël; Cumberland, Susan A; Etschmann, Barbara; Frierdich, Andrew J

2018-02-06

The recrystallization of Mn(III,IV) oxides is catalyzed by aqueous Mn(II) (Mn(II) aq ) during (bio)geochemical Mn redox cycling. It is poorly understood how trace metals associated with Mn oxides (e.g., Ni) are cycled during such recrystallization. Here, we use X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) to examine the speciation of Ni associated with Manganite (γ-Mn(III)OOH) suspensions in the presence or absence of Mn(II) aq under variable pH conditions (pH 5.5 and 7.5). In a second set of experiments, we used a 62 Ni isotope tracer to quantify the amount of dissolved Ni that exchanges with Ni incorporated in the Manganite crystal structure during reactions in 1 mM Mn(II) aq and in Mn(II)-free solutions. XAS spectra show that Ni is initially sorbed on the Manganite mineral surface and is progressively incorporated into the mineral structure over time (13% after 51 days) even in the absence of dissolved Mn(II). The amount of Ni incorporation significantly increases to about 40% over a period of 51 days when Mn(II) aq is present in solution. Similarly, Mn(II) aq promotes Ni exchange between Ni-substituted Manganite and dissolved Ni(II), with around 30% of Ni exchanged at pH 7.5 over the duration of the experiment. No new mineral phases are detected following recrystallization as determined by X-ray diffraction and XAS. Our results reveal that Mn(II)-catalyzed mineral recrystallization partitions Ni between Mn oxides and aqueous fluids and can therefore affect Ni speciation and mobility in the environment.

Metabolism of diclofenac in plants--hydroxylation is followed by glucose conjugation.

PubMed

Huber, Christian; Bartha, Bernadett; Schröder, Peter

2012-12-01

Pharmaceuticals from human or veterinary medication form a new class of micropollutants that poses a serious threat to our aquatic environment and its organisms. The intensively used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug diclofenac is found in the environment worldwide due to its poor elimination during waste water treatment processes. In order to test phytoremediation as a tool for the removal of this drug from waste water, the uptake of the compound into plant tissues and its metabolic pathway was addressed using Hordeum vulgare (barley) and a hairy root cell culture of Armoracia rusticana (horse radish) as model species. Diclofenac is taken up by plants and undergoes rapid metabolization; already after 3h of exposure the drug and its metabolites could be detected in the plant tissues. Similar to its fate in mammalian cells the drug is activated in a phase I reaction resulting in the hydroxylated metabolite 4'OH-diclofenac which is conjugated subsequently in phase II to a glucopyranoside, a typical plant specific metabolite. After exposure to 10 and 100 μM diclofenac a concentration dependent formation of the hydroxylated metabolite was observed, while the formation of the phase II metabolite OH-diclofenac glucopyranoside was not positively affected by the higher concentration. To our knowledge this is the first time these two human painkiller metabolites are shown to occur in plant tissues. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A Phase II/III Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind Clinical Trial of Ginger (Zingiber officinale) for Nausea Caused by Chemotherapy for Cancer: A Currently Accruing URCC CCOP Cancer Control Study.

PubMed

Hickok, Jane T; Roscoe, Joseph A; Morrow, Gary R; Ryan, Julie L

2007-09-01

Despite the widespread use of 5-HT3 receptor antagonist antiemetics such as ondansetron and granistron, up to 70% of patients with cancer receiving highly emetogenic chemotherapy agents experience postchemotherapy nausea and vomiting. Delayed postchemotherapy nausea (nausea that occurs >/= 24 hours after chemotherapy administration) and anticipatory nausea (nausea that develops before chemotherapy administration, in anticipation of it) are poorly controlled by currently available antiemetic agents. Scientific studies suggest that ginger (Zingiber officinale) might have beneficial effects on nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness, surgery, and pregnancy. In 2 small studies of patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy, addition of ginger to standard antiemetic medication further reduced the severity of postchemotherapy nausea. This article describes a phase II/III randomized, dose-finding, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial to assess the efficacy of ginger for nausea associated with chemotherapy for cancer. The study is currently being conducted by private practice oncology groups that are funded by the National Cancer Institute's Community Clinical Oncology Program and affiliated with the University of Rochester Cancer Center Community Clinical Oncology Program Research Base.

Local anticorrelation between star formation rate and gas-phase metallicity in disc galaxies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sánchez Almeida, J.; Caon, N.; Muñoz-Tuñón, C.; Filho, M.; Cerviño, M.

2018-06-01

Using a representative sample of 14 star-forming dwarf galaxies in the local Universe, we show the existence of a spaxel-to-spaxel anticorrelation between the index N2 ≡ log ([N II]λ 6583/H α ) and the H α flux. These two quantities are commonly employed as proxies for gas-phase metallicity and star formation rate (SFR), respectively. Thus, the observed N2 to H α relation may reflect the existence of an anticorrelation between the metallicity of the gas forming stars and the SFR it induces. Such an anticorrelation is to be expected if variable external metal-poor gas fuels the star-formation process. Alternatively, it can result from the contamination of the star-forming gas by stellar winds and SNe, provided that intense outflows drive most of the metals out of the star-forming regions. We also explore the possibility that the observed anticorrelation is due to variations in the physical conditions of the emitting gas, other than metallicity. Using alternative methods to compute metallicity, as well as previous observations of H II regions and photoionization models, we conclude that this possibility is unlikely. The radial gradient of metallicity characterizing disc galaxies does not produce the correlation either.

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...

Multiscale understanding of tricalcium silicate hydration reactions.

PubMed

Cuesta, Ana; Zea-Garcia, Jesus D; Londono-Zuluaga, Diana; De la Torre, Angeles G; Santacruz, Isabel; Vallcorba, Oriol; Dapiaggi, Monica; Sanfélix, Susana G; Aranda, Miguel A G

2018-06-04

Tricalcium silicate, the main constituent of Portland cement, hydrates to produce crystalline calcium hydroxide and calcium-silicate-hydrates (C-S-H) nanocrystalline gel. This hydration reaction is poorly understood at the nanoscale. The understanding of atomic arrangement in nanocrystalline phases is intrinsically complicated and this challenge is exacerbated by the presence of additional crystalline phase(s). Here, we use calorimetry and synchrotron X-ray powder diffraction to quantitatively follow tricalcium silicate hydration process: i) its dissolution, ii) portlandite crystallization and iii) C-S-H gel precipitation. Chiefly, synchrotron pair distribution function (PDF) allows to identify a defective clinotobermorite, Ca 11 Si 9 O 28 (OH) 2 . 8.5H 2 O, as the nanocrystalline component of C-S-H. Furthermore, PDF analysis also indicates that C-S-H gel contains monolayer calcium hydroxide which is stretched as recently predicted by first principles calculations. These outcomes, plus additional laboratory characterization, yielded a multiscale picture for C-S-H nanocomposite gel which explains the observed densities and Ca/Si atomic ratios at the nano- and meso- scales.

Influence of thermal history on the electrochemical properties of Li[Ni0.5Mn1.5]O4

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Guoqiang; Park, Kyu-Sung; Song, Jie; Goodenough, John B.

2013-12-01

The oxygen-stoichiometric spinel Li[Ni0.5Mn1.5]O4 is an insulator with ordered Ni(II) and Mn(IV). Although it delivers 4.7 V versus Li, the ordered phase gives poor performance as the cathode of a Li-ion battery. Here we demonstrate control of the degree of cation order by adjusting the oxygen stoichiometry with thermal history of the synthesis rather than by doping 2M(III) for Ni(II) + Mn(IV) (M = Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Al, Ga). We report retention of capacity near 100 mAh g-1 at room temperature at 10C/10C charge/discharge rate with little capacity fade; at 55 °C, a capacity fade occurs as a result of reaction with the electrolyte, but it is reduced to a level comparable to that obtained by doping.

Imaging the elusive H-poor gas in planetary nebulae with large abundance discrepancy factors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

García-Rojas, Jorge; Corradi, Romano L. M.; Boffin, Henri M. J.; Monteiro, Hektor; Jones, David; Wesson, Roger; Cabrera-Lavers, Antonio; Rodríguez-Gil, Pablo

2017-10-01

The discrepancy between abundances computed using optical recombination lines (ORLs) and collisionally excited lines (CELs) is a major, unresolved problem with significant implications for the determination of chemical abundances throughout the Universe. In planetary nebulae (PNe), the most common explanation for the discrepancy is that two different gas phases coexist: a hot component with standard metallicity, and a much colder plasma enhanced in heavy elements. This dual nature is not predicted by mass loss theories, and direct observational support for it is still weak. In this work, we present our recent findings that demonstrate that the largest abundance discrepancies are associated with close binary central stars. OSIRIS-GTC tunable filter imaging of the faint O ii ORLs and MUSE-VLT deep 2D spectrophotometry confirm that O ii ORL emission is more centrally concentrated than that of [Oiii] CELs and, therefore, that the abundance discrepancy may be closely linked to binary evolution.

Cediranib in patients with malignant mesothelioma: A phase II trial of the University of Chicago Phase II Consortium

PubMed Central

Campbell, Nicholas P.; Kunnavakkam, Rangesh; Leighl, Natasha; Vincent, Mark D.; Gandara, David R.; Koczywas, Marianna; Gitlitz, Barbara J.; Agamah, Edem; Thomas, Sachdev P.; Stadler, Walter M.; Vokes, Everett E.; Kindler, Hedy L.

2013-01-01

Introduction Malignant mesothelioma (MM) is an aggressive disease with limited therapeutic options. In preclinical models, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) stimulates MM proliferation. In MM patients, higher plasma VEGF levels correlate inversely with survival. Cediranib is an orally administered tyrosine kinase inhibitor of VEGF receptors -1, -2, and -3. Methods We conducted a multi-center phase II trial of cediranib in patients with unresectable, histologically-confirmed MM who had received ≤1 prior regimen of chemotherapy. The primary endpoint was objective response rate. Initial cediranib dosing was 45 mg daily during a 28-day cycle. Due to substantial toxicity, the starting dose was subsequently lowered to 30 mg daily. Results Fifty-one patients enrolled at 9 centers; 50 were evaluable for response. Partial responses were observed in 10% of patients; stable disease was seen in 34%. Disease control (PR + SD) was higher at the 45 mg cediranib dose level (67% vs. 34%, p=0.04). Median progression-free survival was 1.8 months (95% CI 0.1, 14.2); median overall survival (OS) was 4.4 months (95% CI 0.9, 41.7). The 1-year survival rate was 15%. Grade 3/4 toxicities were more frequent in the 45 mg dose level group (87% vs. 43%, p=0.002). These included fatigue, hypertension, pulmonary embolism, angioedema, and reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy. Median OS was superior in patients who developed ≥ grade 3 hypertension (8.5 vs. 4.1 months, p=0.024). Conclusion This trial did not meet its pre-specified response endpoint. A higher cediranib dose level was associated with improved disease control, but this dose was poorly tolerated. PMID:22831987

Results of a phase II trial for high-risk neuroblastoma treatment protocol JN-H-07: a report from the Japan Childhood Cancer Group Neuroblastoma Committee (JNBSG).

PubMed

Hishiki, Tomoro; Matsumoto, Kimikazu; Ohira, Miki; Kamijo, Takehiko; Shichino, Hiroyuki; Kuroda, Tatsuo; Yoneda, Akihiro; Soejima, Toshinori; Nakazawa, Atsuko; Takimoto, Tetsuya; Yokota, Isao; Teramukai, Satoshi; Takahashi, Hideto; Fukushima, Takashi; Kaneko, Takashi; Hara, Junichi; Kaneko, Michio; Ikeda, Hitoshi; Tajiri, Tatsuro; Nakagawara, Akira

2018-04-26

The Japanese Children's Cancer Group (JCCG) Neuroblastoma Committee (JNBSG) conducted a phase II clinical trial for high-risk neuroblastoma treatment. We report the result of the protocol treatment and associated genomic aberration studies. JN-H-07 was a single-arm, late phase II trial for high-risk neuroblastoma treatment with open enrollment from June 2007 to February 2009. Eligible patients underwent five courses of induction chemotherapy followed by high-dose chemotherapy with hematopoietic stem cell rescue. Surgery for the primary tumor was scheduled after three or four courses of induction chemotherapy. Radiotherapy was administered to the primary tumor site and to any bone metastases present at the end of induction chemotherapy. The estimated 3-year progression-free and overall survival rates of the 50 patients enrolled were 36.5 ± 7.0 and 69.5 ± 6.6%, respectively. High-dose chemotherapy caused severe toxicity including three treatment-related deaths. In response to this, the high-dose chemotherapy regimen was modified during the trial by infusing melphalan before administering carboplatin and etoposide. The modified high-dose chemotherapy regimen was less toxic. Univariate analysis revealed that patients younger than 547 days and patients whose tumor showed a whole chromosomal gains / losses pattern had a significantly poor prognosis. Notably, the progression-free survival of cases with MYCN amplification were not inferior to those without MYCN amplification. The outcome of patients treated with the JN-H-07 protocol showed improvement over the results reported by previous studies conducted in Japan. Molecular and genetic profiling may enable a more precise stratification of the high-risk cohort.

Diagnosis of Acute Q Fever by Detection of Coxiella burnetii DNA using Real-Time PCR, Employing a Commercial Genesig Easy Kit

PubMed Central

Pradeep, Jothimani; Ambroise, Stanley; Gunasekaran, Dhandapany

2017-01-01

Introduction Query (Q) fever is an important zoonosis and a cause of concern for humans, due to the potential bioterrorism threat posed by the causative agent, Coxiella burnetii. Because of the danger of contracting the illness, isolation attempts are seldom made. Serological and molecular diagnostic tests are the main option. Aim To study the prevalence of acute Q fever in Puducherry and surrounding districts of Tamil Nadu, India, employing a new commercial Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) kit and confirming it by the gold standard Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA). Materials and Methods Acute phase blood samples from 72 consecutive febrile patients and 24 healthy individuals were included in this prospective study. DNA was extracted from the buffy coats and preserved at -80°C. Detection of C. burnetii was carried out employing a commercial Real-Time PCR kit. Serum samples were tested for IgM (Phase I+II) and IgG (Phase I+II) by QM-120 and QG-120, Coxiella burnetii IFA Fuller Laboratories, California, USA. Sensitivity, Specificity, Positive Predictive Value (PPV) and Negative Predictive Value (NPV) were calculated keeping IFA as the reference. Results Presumptive diagnosis of acute Q fever was made in two febrile patients by the Genesig Easy kit (2.78%). In addition to these two PCR positive cases, one more patient was positive for both Phase II IgM and Phase II IgG antibodies by the gold standard IFA. All 24 healthy controls were negative for Q fever by both PCR and IFA. The sensitivity, specificity, NPV and PPV for Genesig Easy kit PCR were: 66.67%, 100%, 100% and 98.57 % respectively against IFA as the reference. Conclusion The true prevalence of Q fever in India and other developing countries is poorly understood, owing to the difficulties in the diagnosis of this infection. Since molecular diagnostic tests have good specificity and are mandated for confirmation of single acute samples, validation of commercial Q fever PCR kits is the need of the hour. Genesig Easy kit in our hands was found to be reliable with the moderate sensitivity and high specificity. Performing both PCR (with acute specimens) and IFA (with paired sera) would be ideal for Q fever diagnosis. PMID:29207703

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

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

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

Blade System Design Study. Part II, final project report (GEC).

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

Griffin, Dayton A.

2009-05-01

As part of the U.S. Department of Energy's Low Wind Speed Turbine program, Global Energy Concepts LLC (GEC)1 has studied alternative composite materials for wind turbine blades in the multi-megawatt size range. This work in one of the Blade System Design Studies (BSDS) funded through Sandia National Laboratories. The BSDS program was conducted in two phases. In the Part I BSDS, GEC assessed candidate innovations in composite materials, manufacturing processes, and structural configurations. GEC also made recommendations for testing composite coupons, details, assemblies, and blade substructures to be carried out in the Part II study (BSDS-II). The BSDS-II contract periodmore » began in May 2003, and testing was initiated in June 2004. The current report summarizes the results from the BSDS-II test program. Composite materials evaluated include carbon fiber in both pre-impregnated and vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) forms. Initial thin-coupon static testing included a wide range of parameters, including variation in manufacturer, fiber tow size, fabric architecture, and resin type. A smaller set of these materials and process types was also evaluated in thin-coupon fatigue testing, and in ply-drop and ply-transition panels. The majority of materials used epoxy resin, with vinyl ester (VE) resin also used for selected cases. Late in the project, testing of unidirectional fiberglass was added to provide an updated baseline against which to evaluate the carbon material performance. Numerous unidirectional carbon fabrics were considered for evaluation with VARTM infusion. All but one fabric style considered suffered either from poor infusibility or waviness of fibers combined with poor compaction. The exception was a triaxial carbon-fiberglass fabric produced by SAERTEX. This fabric became the primary choice for infused articles throughout the test program. The generally positive results obtained in this program for the SAERTEX material have led to its being used in innovative prototype blades of 9-m and 30-m length, as well as other non-wind related structures.« less

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

Schwertmannite stability in anoxic Fe(II)-rich aqueous solution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Paikaray, Susanta; Schröder, Christian; Peiffer, Stefan

2017-11-01

Schwertmannite (SHM) is a powerful scavenger for As(III) leading to As(III)-enriched precipitates around acid mine drainage environments that may become exposed to aqueous Fe(II). In this study we have investigated the stability of pure SHM and SHM containing 0.92 wt% As(III) under Fe(II)aq-rich (0.4-1.0 mM) anoxic conditions using XRD, SEM, Mössbauer and FTIR spectroscopic techniques. Schwertmannite transformation proceeded through an alkalinity-driven pathway releasing sulfate and a Fe(II)-catalyzed pathway that generated lepidocrocite and goethite at pH 6 and 6.9 in the presence of 1 mM Fe(II)aq. Lepidocrocite was found to be needle shaped if the SHM contained As(III) and platy for pure SHM. Goethite had a poor degree of crystallinity in As(III) containing SHM. Pre-adsorption of As(III) inhibited the extent of SHM transformation. Fe(II) sorption onto SHM was pH dependent and reflected a sorption edge with complete consumption at pH 6.9, while only ∼20% were adsorbed at pH 5. Surface coverage with Fe(II) appears to be the key parameter controlling extent and products of the transformation process. As(III) concentrations in solution are controlled by two mechanisms: (1) exchange of As(III) for sulfate upon alkalinity-driven transformation of schwertmannite and (2) re-adsorption to new phases formed upon Fe(II)-catalyzed transformation. The adsorbed As(III) has inhibited the extent of transformation and was partly released with the maximum release at pH 5 (0.5%) in the absence of Fe(II)aq.

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

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

Prokaryotic communities in pit mud from different-aged cellars used for the production of Chinese strong-flavored liquor.

PubMed

Tao, Yong; Li, Jiabao; Rui, Junpeng; Xu, Zhancheng; Zhou, Yan; Hu, Xiaohong; Wang, Xiang; Liu, Menghua; Li, Daping; Li, Xiangzhen

2014-04-01

Chinese strong-flavored liquor (CSFL) accounts for more than 70% of all Chinese liquor production. Microbes in pit mud play key roles in the fermentation cellar for the CSFL production. However, microbial diversity, community structure, and cellar-age-related changes in pit mud are poorly understood. Here, we investigated the prokaryotic community structure and diversity in pit-mud samples with different cellar ages (1, 10, 25, and 50 years) using the pyrosequencing technique. Results indicated that prokaryotic diversity increased with cellar age until the age reached 25 years and that prokaryotic community structure changed significantly between three cellar ages (1, 10, and 25 years). Significant correlations between prokaryotic communities and environmental variables (pH, NH4(+), lactic acid, butyric acid, and caproic acid) were observed. Overall, our study results suggested that the long-term brewing operation shapes unique prokaryotic community structure and diversity as well as pit-mud chemistry. We have proposed a three-phase model to characterize the changes of pit-mud prokaryotic communities. (i) Phase I is an initial domestication period. Pit mud is characterized by abundant Lactobacillus and high lactic acid and low pH levels. (ii) Phase II is a transition period. While Lactobacillus abundance decreases dramatically, that of Bacteroidetes and methanogens increases. (iii) Phase III is a relative mature period. The prokaryotic community shows the highest diversity and capability to produce more caproic acid as a precursor for synthesis of ethyl caproate, the main flavor component in CSFL. This research provides scientific evidence to support the practical experience that old fermentation cellars produce high-quality liquor.

Randomized controlled dissemination study of community-to-clinic navigation to promote CRC screening: Study design and implications.

PubMed

Larkey, Linda; Szalacha, Laura; Herman, Patricia; Gonzalez, Julie; Menon, Usha

2017-02-01

Regular screening facilitates early diagnosis of colorectal cancer (CRC) and reduction of CRC morbidity and mortality. Screening rates for minorities and low-income populations remain suboptimal. Provider referral for CRC screening is one of the strongest predictors of adherence, but referrals are unlikely among those who have no clinic home (common among poor and minority populations). This group randomized controlled study will test the effectiveness of an evidence based tailored messaging intervention in a community-to-clinic navigation context compared to no navigation. Multicultural, underinsured individuals from community sites will be randomized (by site) to receive CRC screening education only, or education plus navigation. In Phase I, those randomized to education plus navigation will be guided to make a clinic appointment to receive a provider referral for CRC screening. Patients attending clinic appointments will continue to receive navigation until screened (Phase II) regardless of initial arm assignment. We hypothesize that those receiving education plus navigation will be more likely to attend clinic appointments (H1) and show higher rates of screening (H2) compared to those receiving education only. Phase I group assignment will be used as a control variable in analysis of screening follow-through in Phase II. Costs per screening achieved will be evaluated for each condition and the RE-AIM framework will be used to examine dissemination results. The novelty of our study design is the translational dissemination model that will allow us to assess the real-world application of an efficacious intervention previously tested in a randomized controlled trial. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Potentially bioavailable ferrous iron nanoparticles in glacial sediments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hawkings, J.; Benning, L. G.; Raiswell, R.; Kaulich, B.; Araki, T.; Abyaneh, M.; Koch-Müller, M.; Stockdale, A.; Tranter, M.; Wadham, J.

2017-12-01

Iron (Fe) is an essential nutrient for marine phytoplankton, the primary producers of the ocean. Despite it being the fourth most abundant element in the Earth's crust, it is highly insoluble, due in part to its rapid oxidation from ferric (Fe2+) to ferrous phases (Fe3+), which often leads to the formation of nanoparticulate iron oxyhydroxide phases1. The insoluble nature of Fe in oxygenated waters means Fe limitation of primary producers is prevalent in 30-50% of the world's oceans, including areas of high biological productivity proximal to significant glacial activity (e.g., the Southern Ocean). Glaciers and ice sheets are a significant source of nanoparticulate Fe, which may be important in sustaining the high productivity observed in the near coastal regions proximal to glacial coverage. The reactivity of particulate iron is poorly understood, despite its importance in the ocean Fe inventory. Here we combined geochemical extractions, high-resolution imaging and spectroscopy to investigate the abundance, morphology and valence state of reactive iron in glacial sediments. Our results document the widespread occurrence of amorphous and Fe(II)-rich nanoparticles in glacial meltwaters and icebergs. Fe(II) is thought to be highly bioavailable in marine environments. We argue that glaciers and ice sheets are therefore able to supply potentially bioavailable Fe(II)-containing nanoparticulate material for downstream ecosystems, including those in a marine setting. The flux of bioavailable particulate iron from Arctic glaciers may increase as rising air temperatures lead to higher meltwater export.

A Phase II Study Of The Farnesyltransferase Inhibitor ZANESTRA (R115777, NSC #702818, IND #58,359) In Complete Remission Following Induction And/Or Consolidation Chemotherapy In Adults With Poor-Risk Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML) And High-Risk Myelodysplasia (MDS)

ClinicalTrials.gov

2013-01-08

Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia in Remission; Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia With 11q23 (MLL) Abnormalities; Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia With Del(5q); Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia With Inv(16)(p13;q22); Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia With t(15;17)(q22;q12); Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia With t(16;16)(p13;q22); Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia With t(8;21)(q22;q22); de Novo Myelodysplastic Syndromes; Secondary Myelodysplastic Syndromes

Modified BEAM with triple autologous stem cell transplantation for patients with relapsed aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

PubMed

Hohloch, Karin; Zeynalova, Samira; Chapuy, Björn; Pfreundschuh, Michael; Loeffler, Markus; Ziepert, Marita; Feller, Alfred C; Trümper, Lorenz; Hasenclever, Dirk; Wulf, Gerald; Schmitz, Norbert

2016-06-01

Treatment of relapse and primary progression in aggressive lymphoma remains unsatisfactory; outcome is still poor. Better treatment strategies are much needed for this patient population. The R1 study is a prospective multi-center phase I/II study evaluating a dose finding approach with a triple transplant regimen in four BEAM dose levels in patients with relapsed aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The aim of the study was to determine feasibility, toxicity, and remission rate. In a total of 39 patients (pts.) enrolled in the study, 24 pts. were evaluated in the following analysis. Twenty pts. had aggressive B cell lymphoma, and two pts. had T cell lymphoma. All evaluated patients responded to DexaBEAM with a sufficient stem cell harvest. The phase I/II study was started with BEAM dose level II. Four patients were treated at dose level II, and 20 pts. were treated at dose level III. Due to the early termination of the study, dose levels I and IV were never administered. Sixteen pts. completed therapy according to protocol, and eight pts. (33.3 %) stopped treatment early. Infections (27 %) and stomatitis (13 %) were the most frequent grade III/IV non-hematologic toxicities. Thirteen percent of patients presented with severe grade III/IV lung toxicity during modified BEAM (m-BEAM). Fourteen pts. achieved a complete response (CR), one pt. achieved no change (NC), six pts. had progressive disease (PD), and two pts. died; for one pt., outcome is not known. One-year and 3-year event-free survival (EFS) was 38 and 33 %, respectively. Overall survival (OS) after 1 and 3 years was 50 and 38 %. In conclusion, dose escalation of standard BEAM is not feasible due to toxicity.

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...

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...

The Most Metal-poor Stars in the Large Magellanic Cloud

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schlaufman, Kevin C.

2018-06-01

The chemical abundances of the most metal-poor stars in a galaxy can be used to investigate the earliest stages of its formation and chemical evolution. Differences between the abundances of the most metal-poor stars in the Milky Way and in its satellite dwarf galaxies have been noted and provide the strongest available constraints on the earliest stages of general galactic chemical evolution models. However, the masses of the Milky Way and its satellite dwarf galaxies differ by four orders of magnitude, leaving a gap in our knowledge of the early chemical evolution of intermediate mass galaxies like the Magellanic Clouds. To close that gap, we have initiated a survey of the metal-poor stellar populations of the Magellanic Clouds using the mid-infrared metal-poor star selection of Schlaufman & Casey (2014). We have discovered the three most metal-poor giant stars known in the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) and reobserved the previous record holder. The stars have metallicities in the range -2.70 < [Fe/H] < -2.00 and three show r-process enhancement: one has [Eu II/Fe] = +1.65 and two others have [Eu II/Fe] = +0.65. The probability that four randomly selected very metal-poor stars in the halo of the Milky Way are as r-process enhanced is 0.0002. For that reason, the early chemical enrichment of the heaviest elements in the LMC and Milky Way were qualitatively different. It is also suggestive of a possible chemical link between the LMC and the ultra-faint dwarf galaxies nearby with evidence of r-process enhancement (e.g., Reticulum II and Tucana III). Like Reticulum II, the most metal-poor star in our LMC sample is the only one not enhanced in r-process elements.

Questa Baseline and Pre-Mining Ground-Water Quality Investigation 15.-Methods of Phase II and III Well Installation and Development and Results of Well Logging, Hydraulic Testing, and Water-Level Measurements in the Red River Valley, New Mexico, 2002-04

USGS Publications Warehouse

Blanchard, Paul J.; Bartolino, James R.; Donohoe, Lisa C.; McAda, Douglas P.; Naus, Cheryl A.; Morin, Roger H.

2007-01-01

In April 2001, the U.S. Geological Survey and the New Mexico Environment Department began a cooperative study to infer the pre-mining ground-water chemistry at the Molycorp molybdenum mine site in the Red River Valley of north- central New Mexico. This report is one in a series of reports that can be used to determine pre-mining ground-water conditions at the mine site. Weathering of hydrothermally altered bedrock in the study area has resulted in steep, highly erosive, and sparsely vegetated scar areas that are clearly visible from the ground and in aerial photographs. Runoff from intense summer rainfall over tributary drainages containing scar areas can transport large quantities of sediment and form debris fans where these tributaries join the Red River. Twenty-nine observation wells were installed in three phases as part of this study in the Red River Valley and tributary drainages. Eight Phase II observation wells were drilled using an air-rotary/hammer rig. Three Phase II and 10 phase III small-diameter wells were installed using a direct-push rig. Lithologic logs were recorded for all eight Phase II drilled wells. Borehole geophysical logging (including natural gamma, induction, and single-detector neutron) was conducted in three Phase II wells. Aquifer tests conducted during 2003 to estimate the hydraulic properties of debris-flow and Red River alluvial deposits in and near Straight Creek included a flow-meter survey, slug tests, and a pumping test. Results of a flow-meter survey in well SC-7A indicated that about 77 percent of the water entered the well from a 10-foot-thick zone near the top of the screened interval and about 23 percent of the water entered the well from a 15-foot-thick zone near the bottom of the screened interval. Slug tests, performed in 11 wells during June 3-5, 2003, indicated that the mean and median estimated hydraulic conductivities for debris-flow deposits were 15.25 and 15.35 feet per day, respectively, for bedrock were 0.12 and 0.08 feet per day, respectively, and for mixed debris flow and Red River alluvium were 73-207 (estimated range) and 80 feet per day. In general, bedrock has the smallest hydraulic conductivity, debris-flow material has the next highest hydraulic conductivity, and mixed debris flow and Red River alluvium has the largest hydraulic conductivity. A pumping test conducted December 3-4, 2003, using well AWWT-1 as the pumped well, and wells AWWT-2, SC-5A, SC-5B, SC-7A, and SC-8A as observation wells, indicated estimated transmissivity of 12,000 to 34,000 feet squared per day and estimated hydraulic conductivity of 230 to 340 feet per day. Water-level measurements in wells SC-6A, SC-7A, SC-8A, and the Hottentot, Hansen, and La Bobita wells show that water levels typically rose rapidly during melting of the winter snowpack in the springtime and then generally declined during the rest of the year. The water-level rise in response to spring snowmelt occurred earlier and was smaller at larger distances from the Red River. Differences between the stage in the Red River and water levels in wells SC-8A and SC-9A, and the absence of water in well SC-9A at the time of well completion, indicate that the Red River has a poor hydraulic connection to the underlying ground-water system and the surface-water system is perched above the ground-water system at this site. Water levels in Phase III wells indicate that the Red River and the shallow ground-water system are connected hydraulically from near wells 4-1D and 4-1S downstream to near wells 2-1 and 2-2 but are poorly connected near the La Bobita well and well 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.

Triage of patients with acute gastrointestinal bleeding for intensive care unit admission based on risk factors for poor outcome.

PubMed

Afessa, B

2000-04-01

This study's aim was to determine the prognostic factors and to develop a triage system for intensive care unit (ICU) admission of patients with gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB). This prospective, observational study included 411 adults consecutively hospitalized for GIB. Each patient's selected clinical findings and laboratory values at presentation were obtained. The Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II scores were calculated from the initial findings in the emergency department. Poor outcome was defined as recurrent GIB, emergency surgery, or death. The role of hepatic cirrhosis, APACHE II score, active GIB, end-organ dysfunction, and hypotension in predicting outcome was evaluated. Chi-square, Student's t, Mann-Whitney U, and logistic regression analysis tests were used for statistical comparisons. Poor outcome developed in 81 (20%) patients; 39 died, 23 underwent emergency surgery, and 47 rebled. End-organ dysfunction, active bleeding, hepatic cirrhosis, and high APACHE II scores were independent predictors of poor outcome with odds ratios of 3:1, 3:1, 2:3, and 1:1, respectively. The ICU admission rate was 37%. High APACHE II score, active bleeding, end-organ dysfunction, and hepatic cirrhosis are independent predictors of poor outcome in patients with GIB and can be used in the triage of these patients for ICU admission.

The HK-II Survey: Kinematics of Metal-Poor Stars in the Galaxy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rhee, J.; Beers, T. C.

2003-12-01

The digitized HK-II survey (Rhee 2000, Ph.D. thesis, MSU) was originated as a follow-on to the HK-I survey of Beers and colleagues (e.g., Beers et al. 1992, AJ, 103, 1987). HK-I was based on visually-selected candidate metal-poor stars from objective-prism plates. Unfortunately, in the absence of color information, this selection technique introduced a rather severe temperature-related bias. As a result, the HK-I candidates do not include large numbers of metal-deficient giants. In HK-II, candidate metal-poor stars are quantitatively selected from digitized objective-prism spectra with JHK color information from the recently completeted 2MASS catalog. This approach eliminates much of the temperature bias. We have begun to survey candidate very metal-poor ([Fe/H] ≤ -2.0) giants from HK-II, over the magnitude range 11.0 ≤ B ≤ 16.0, covering some ˜7000 deg2 of intermediate to high Galactic-latitudes. Ongoing medium-resolution ( ˜ 1-2Å ) spectroscopic follow-up using NOAO observing facilities has allowed us to obtain, to date, some 1000 spectra (400, 450, and 150 spectra for red giants, subgiants near the main-sequence turnoff, and FHB/A stars, respectively) for the HK-II metal-poor star candidates. In particular, the detection rate of bona fide very metal-poor giants is about 45 %, which is quite encouraging. Most of the "mistakes" are slightly more metal-rich giants, with -2.0 < [Fe/H] < -1.0. Metallicities and radial velocities are determined from our spectroscopy, and proper motions for most of the program stars are obtained from the recently released UCAC2 astrometric survey catalog. Here we present an analysis of the full space motions for numerous metal-poor stars from the HK-II survey. A comparision of the chemical and kinematic properties between high- and low-halo populations (that is, giants vs. sub-giants) will aid us in understanding the formation history of the Milky Way. J.R. acknowledges partial support for this work by NASA through the AAS Small Research Grant Program. T.C.B. acknowledges partial support for this work from NSF grants AST 00-98508 and AST 00-98549.

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

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…

Probing the Evolution of Massive Young Stellar Objects using Weak Class II 6.7GHz Methanol Maser Emission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ludwig, Bethany Ann; Cunningham, Nichol

2017-01-01

We present results from an investigation of class II 6.7GHz methanol masers towards four Massive Young Stellar Objects (MYSOs). The sources, selected from the Red MSX Source (RMS) Survey (Lumsden et al. 2013), were previously understood to be non-detections for class II methanol maser emission in the methanol multi-beam (MMB) Survey (Caswell et al. 2010.) Class II methanol masers are a well-known sign post of massive star forming regions and may be utilized to probe their relatively poorly understood formation. It is possible that these non-detections are simply weak masers that are potentially associated with a younger evolutionary phase of MYSOs as hypothesized by Olmi et al. (2014). The sources were chosen to sample various stages of evolution, having similar 21 to 8 micron flux ratios and bolometric luminosities as other MYSOs with previous class II methanol maser detections. We observed all 4 MYSOs with ATCA (~2" resolution) at 10 times deeper sensitivity than previously obtained with the MMB survey and have a spectral resolution of 0.087kms^-1 . The raw data is reduced using the program Miriad (Sault, R. J., et al., 1995) and deconvolutioned using the program CASA (McMullin, J. P., et al. 2007.) We determine one of the four observed MYSOs is harboring a weak class II methanol maser. We discuss the possibility of sensitivity limitations on the remaining sources as well as environmental and evolutionary differences between the sources.

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

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.

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 - ...

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.

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.

Drug carrier systems for solubility enhancement of BCS class II drugs: a critical review.

PubMed

Kumar, Sumit; Bhargava, Deepak; Thakkar, Arti; Arora, Saahil

2013-01-01

Poor aqueous solubility impedes a drug's bioavailability and challenges its pharmaceutical development. Pharmaceutical development of drugs with poor water solubility requires the establishment of a suitable formulation layout among various techniques. Various approaches have been investigated extensively to improve the aqueous solubility and poor dissolution rate of BCS class II and IV drugs. In this literature review, novel formulation options, particularly for class II drugs designed for applications such as micronization, self-emulsification, cyclodextrin complexation, co-crystallisation, super critical fluid technology, solubilisation by change in pH, salt formation, co-solvents, melt granulation, and solid dispersion, liposomal/niosomal formulations, are discussed in detail to introduce biopharmaceutical challenges and recent approaches to facilitate more efficient drug formulation and development.

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.

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...

Discovery of the Highly Potent PI3K/mTOR Dual Inhibitor PF-04979064 through Structure-Based Drug Design

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

PI3K, AKT, and mTOR are key kinases from PI3K signaling pathway being extensively pursued to treat a variety of cancers in oncology. To search for a structurally differentiated back-up candidate to PF-04691502, which is currently in phase I/II clinical trials for treating solid tumors, a lead optimization effort was carried out with a tricyclic imidazo[1,5]naphthyridine series. Integration of structure-based drug design and physical properties-based optimization yielded a potent and selective PI3K/mTOR dual kinase inhibitor PF-04979064. This manuscript discusses the lead optimization for the tricyclic series, which both improved the in vitro potency and addressed a number of ADMET issues including high metabolic clearance mediated by both P450 and aldehyde oxidase (AO), poor permeability, and poor solubility. An empirical scaling tool was developed to predict human clearance from in vitro human liver S9 assay data for tricyclic derivatives that were AO substrates. PMID:24900568

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.

Prokaryotic Communities in Pit Mud from Different-Aged Cellars Used for the Production of Chinese Strong-Flavored Liquor

PubMed Central

Tao, Yong; Li, Jiabao; Rui, Junpeng; Xu, Zhancheng; Zhou, Yan; Hu, Xiaohong; Wang, Xiang; Liu, Menghua; Li, Daping

2014-01-01

Chinese strong-flavored liquor (CSFL) accounts for more than 70% of all Chinese liquor production. Microbes in pit mud play key roles in the fermentation cellar for the CSFL production. However, microbial diversity, community structure, and cellar-age-related changes in pit mud are poorly understood. Here, we investigated the prokaryotic community structure and diversity in pit-mud samples with different cellar ages (1, 10, 25, and 50 years) using the pyrosequencing technique. Results indicated that prokaryotic diversity increased with cellar age until the age reached 25 years and that prokaryotic community structure changed significantly between three cellar ages (1, 10, and 25 years). Significant correlations between prokaryotic communities and environmental variables (pH, NH4+, lactic acid, butyric acid, and caproic acid) were observed. Overall, our study results suggested that the long-term brewing operation shapes unique prokaryotic community structure and diversity as well as pit-mud chemistry. We have proposed a three-phase model to characterize the changes of pit-mud prokaryotic communities. (i) Phase I is an initial domestication period. Pit mud is characterized by abundant Lactobacillus and high lactic acid and low pH levels. (ii) Phase II is a transition period. While Lactobacillus abundance decreases dramatically, that of Bacteroidetes and methanogens increases. (iii) Phase III is a relative mature period. The prokaryotic community shows the highest diversity and capability to produce more caproic acid as a precursor for synthesis of ethyl caproate, the main flavor component in CSFL. This research provides scientific evidence to support the practical experience that old fermentation cellars produce high-quality liquor. PMID:24487528

Evaluating the ready biodegradability of two poorly water-soluble substances: comparative approach of bioavailability improvement methods (BIMs).

PubMed

Sweetlove, Cyril; Chenèble, Jean-Charles; Barthel, Yves; Boualam, Marc; L'Haridon, Jacques; Thouand, Gérald

2016-09-01

Difficulties encountered in estimating the biodegradation of poorly water-soluble substances are often linked to their limited bioavailability to microorganisms. Many original bioavailability improvement methods (BIMs) have been described, but no global approach was proposed for a standardized comparison of these. The latter would be a valuable tool as part of a wider strategy for evaluating poorly water-soluble substances. The purpose of this study was to define an evaluation strategy following the assessment of different BIMs adapted to poorly water-soluble substances with ready biodegradability tests. The study was performed with two poorly water-soluble chemicals-a solid, anthraquinone, and a liquid, isodecyl neopentanoate-and five BIMs were compared to the direct addition method (reference method), i.e., (i) ultrasonic dispersion, (ii) adsorption onto silica gel, (iii) dispersion using an emulsifier, (iv) dispersion with silicone oil, and (v) dispersion with emulsifier and silicone oil. A two-phase evaluation strategy of solid and liquid chemicals was developed involving the selection of the most relevant BIMs for enhancing the biodegradability of tested substances. A description is given of a BIM classification ratio (R BIM), which enables a comparison to be made between the different test chemical sample preparation methods used in the various tests. Thereby, using this comparison, the BIMs giving rise to the greatest biodegradability were ultrasonic dispersion and dispersion with silicone oil or with silicone oil and emulsifier for the tested solid chemical, adsorption onto silica gel, and ultrasonic dispersion for the liquid one.

Soil Crystallinity As a Climate Indicator: Field Experiments on Earth and Mars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Horgan, Briony; Scudder, Noel; Rampe, Elizabeth; Rutledge, Alicia

2016-01-01

Soil crystallinity is largely determined by leaching rates, as high leaching rates favor the rapid precipitation of short order or poorly-crystalline phases like the aluminosilicate allophane. High leaching rates can occur due to high precipitation rates, seasonal monsoons, or weathering of glass, but are also caused by the rapid onset of seasonal melting of snow and ice in cold environments. Thus, cold climate soils are commonly dominated by poorly crystalline phases, which mature into kaolin minerals over time. Thus, we hypothesize that, in some contexts, soils with high abundances of poorly crystalline phases could indicate formation under cold climatic conditions. This model could be helpful in interpreting the poorly-constrained paleoclimate of ancient Mars, as the crystallinity of ancient soils and soil-derived sediments appears to be highly variable in time and space. While strong signatures of crystalline phyllosilicates have been identified in possible ancient paleosols on Mars, Mars Science Laboratory rover investigations of diverse ancient sediments at Gale Crater has shown that they can contain very high abundances (40-50 wt%) of poorly crystalline phases. We hypothesize that these poorly crystalline phases could be the result of weathering by ice/snow melt, perhaps providing support for sustained cold climates on early Mars punctuated by more limited warm climates. Furthermore, such poorly crystalline soils could be highly fertile growth media for future human exploration and colonization on Mars. To test this hypothesis, we are currently using rover-like instrumentation to investigate the mineralogy and chemistry of weathering products generated by snow and ice melt in a Mars analog alpine environment: the glaciated Three Sisters volcanic complex in central Oregon. Alteration in this glacial environment generates high abundances of poorly crystalline phases, many of which have compositions distinct from those identified in previous terrestrial investigations, and perhaps more similar to poorly crystalline phases identified on Mars.

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

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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.

Effects of different space allowances on growth performance, blood profile and pork quality in a grow-to-finish production system.

PubMed

Jang, J C; Jin, X H; Hong, J S; Kim, Y Y

2017-12-01

This experiment was conducted to evaluate the optimal space allowance on growth performance, blood profile and pork quality of growing-finishing pigs. A total of ninety crossbred pigs [(Yorkshire×Landrace)×Duroc, 30.25±1.13 kg] were allocated into three treatments (0.96: four pigs/pen, 0.96 m2/pig; 0.80: five pigs/pen, 0.80 m2/pig; 0.69: six pigs/pen, 0.69 m2/pig) in a randomized complete block design. Pigs were housed in balanced sex and had free access to feed in all phases for 14 weeks (growing phase I, growing phase II, finishing phase I, and finishing phase II). There was no statistical difference in growing phase, but a linear decrease was observed on average daily gain (ADG, p<0.01), average daily feed intake (ADFI, p<0.01), and body weight (BW, p<0.01) with decreasing space allowance in late finishing phase. On the other hand, a quadratic effect was observed on gain to feed ratio in early finishing phase (p<0.03). Consequently, overall ADG, ADFI, and final BW linearly declined in response to decreased space allowance (p<0.01). The pH of pork had no significant difference in 1 hour after slaughter, whereas there was a linear decrease in 24 h after slaughter with decreasing space allowance. Floor area allowance did not affect pork colors, but shear force linearly increased as floor space decreased (p<0.01). There was a linear increase in serum cortisol concentration on 14 week (p<0.05) with decreased space allocation. Serum IgG was linearly ameliorated as space allowance increased on 10 week (p<0.05) and 14 week (p<0.01). Data from current study indicated that stress derived from reduced space allowance deteriorates the immune system as well as growth performance of pigs, resulting in poor pork quality. Recommended adequate space allowance in a grow-to-finish production system is more than 0.80 m2/pig for maximizing growth performance and production efficiency.

Clinical utility of the Conners' Continuous Performance Test-II to detect poor effort in U.S. military personnel following traumatic brain injury.

PubMed

Lange, Rael T; Iverson, Grant L; Brickell, Tracey A; Staver, Tara; Pancholi, Sonal; Bhagwat, Aditya; French, Louis M

2013-06-01

The purpose of this study is to examine the clinical utility of the Conners' Continuous Performance Test (CPT-II) as an embedded marker of poor effort in military personnel undergoing neuropsychological evaluations following traumatic brain injury. Participants were 158 U.S. military service members divided into 3 groups on the basis of brain injury severity and performance (pass/fail) on 2 symptom validity tests: Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (MTBI)-Pass (n = 87), MTBI-Fail (n = 42), and severe traumatic brain injury (STBI)-Pass (n = 29). The MTBI-Fail group performed worse on the majority of CPT-II measures compared with both the MTBI-Pass and STBI-Pass groups. When comparing the MTBI-Fail group and MTBI-Pass groups, the most accurate measure for identifying poor effort was the Commission T score. When selected measures were combined (i.e., Omissions, Commissions, and Perseverations), there was a very small increase in sensitivity (from .26 to .29). When comparing the MTBI-Fail group and STBI-Pass groups, the most accurate measure for identifying poor effort was the Omission and Commissions T score. When selected measures were combined, sensitivity again increased (from .24 to .45). Overall, these results suggest that individual CPT-II measures can be useful for identifying people who are suspected of providing poor effort from those who have provided adequate effort. However, due to low sensitivity and modest negative predictive power values, this measure cannot be used in isolation to detect poor effort, and is largely useful as a test to "rule in," not "rule out" poor effort. PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2013 APA, all rights reserved.

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.

Stability and Unimolecular Reactivity of Palladate(II) Complexes [Ln PdR3 ]- (L=Phosphine, R=Organyl, n=0 and 1).

PubMed

Kolter, Marlene; Koszinowski, Konrad

2016-10-24

The reduction of Pd II precatalysts to catalytically active Pd 0 species is a key step in many palladium-mediated cross-coupling reactions. Besides phosphines, the stoichiometrically used organometallic reagents can afford this reduction, but do so in a poorly understood way. To elucidate the mechanism of this reaction, we have treated solutions of Pd(OAc) 2 and a phosphine ligand L in tetrahydrofuran with RMgCl (R=Ph, Bn, Bu) as well as other organometallic reagents. Analysis of these model systems by electrospray- ionization mass spectrometry found palladate(II) complexes [L n PdR 3 ] - (n=0 and 1), thus pointing to the occurrence of transmetallation reactions. Upon gas-phase fragmentation, the [L n PdR 3 ] - anions preferentially underwent a reductive elimination to yield Pd 0 species. The sequence of the transmetallation and reductive elimination, thus, constitutes a feasible mechanism for the reduction of the Pd(OAc) 2 precatalyst. Other species of interest observed include the Pd IV complex [PdBn 5 ] - , which did not fragment via a reductive elimination but lost BnH instead. © 2016 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Family Health Services project: the way forward.

PubMed

Dabiri, O M

1993-01-01

Nigerians did not readily accept family planning when Family Health Services (FHS) began in 1988. FHS has made much headway in training, IEC (information, education, and communication), and constituency building and advocacy. Its staff have identified obstacles to implementation, especially program sustainability and management structure. Key limits to sustainability of IEC efforts were inadequately trained personnel and inability of trained personnel to apply what they learned at work stations. The Federal Ministry and Social Services' role in the FHS project was not clearly defined. Some private sector factors contributing to a confused management structure were inadequate method mix, high contraceptive cost, poor monitoring of quality of care, and no coordination of family planning training with the public factor. FHS has since decided to focus its efforts on increasing the demand for and availability of modern contraceptives and improving the quality of family planning services of both the public and private sectors. FHS hopes that accomplishing these activities will reduce fertility, morbidity, and mortality. Strategic plans include a regional focus, quality of care, a variety of methods offered, intensification, hospital and clinics, a management information system, contraceptive logistics, distribution regulations, and addressing social, cultural, and behavioral factors. To effectively implement the strategy, USAID and the Federal Ministry held a workshop in 1993 to effect full integration of Nigerian experience in the 2nd phase of the project (FHS II). Participants reviewed the strengths and weaknesses of the first phase and agreed on implementation. For example, nongovernmental organizations should implement FHS II. FHS II includes training, IEC, and commodities/logistics.

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

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.

Ultraviolet spectra of extreme nearby star-forming regions - approaching a local reference sample for JWST

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Senchyna, Peter; Stark, Daniel P.; Vidal-García, Alba; Chevallard, Jacopo; Charlot, Stéphane; Mainali, Ramesh; Jones, Tucker; Wofford, Aida; Feltre, Anna; Gutkin, Julia

2017-12-01

Nearby dwarf galaxies provide a unique laboratory in which to test stellar population models below Z⊙/2. Such tests are particularly important for interpreting the surprising high-ionization ultraviolet (UV) line emission detected at z > 6 in recent years. We present HST/COS UV spectra of 10 nearby metal-poor star-forming galaxies selected to show He II emission in SDSS optical spectra. The targets span nearly a dex in gas-phase oxygen abundance (7.8 < 12 + log O/H < 8.5) and present uniformly large specific star formation rates (sSFR ∼102 Gyr-1). The UV spectra confirm that metal-poor stellar populations can power extreme nebular emission in high-ionization UV lines, reaching C III] equivalent widths comparable to those seen in systems at z ∼ 6-7. Our data reveal a marked transition in UV spectral properties with decreasing metallicity, with systems below 12 + log O/H ≲ 8.0 (Z/Z⊙ ≲ 1/5) presenting minimal stellar wind features and prominent nebular emission in He II and C IV. This is consistent with nearly an order of magnitude increase in ionizing photon production beyond the He+-ionizing edge relative to H-ionizing flux as metallicity decreases below a fifth solar, well in excess of standard stellar population synthesis predictions. Our results suggest that often-neglected sources of energetic radiation such as stripped binary products and very massive O-stars produce a sharper change in the ionizing spectrum with decreasing metallicity than expected. Consequently, nebular emission in C IV and He II powered by these stars may provide useful metallicity constraints in the reionization era.

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.

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

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 ...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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.

Responses of flocculus and vestibular nuclei neurons in Weaver mutant mice (B6CBA wv/wv) to combined head and body rotation.

PubMed

Grüsser-Cornehls, U

1995-01-01

The responses of vestibular nuclei (Vn) neurons and floccular Purkinje (P) cells to natural stimulation of the horizontal canals were recorded in paralyzed Weaver mutant mice. The Weaver mice suffer from an almost complete postnatal degeneration of granule cells and a portion of the P cells (Sidman et al. 1965). Parallel fibers are never elaborated (Bradley and Berry 1978). Recording sites were localized by means of small, iontophoretically applied HRP markings. Phase and sensitivity were analyzed by a Fourier analysis and a "best sine fitting" program. As in the normal "control" mice (Grüsser-Cornehls et al. 1995), the "simple spike" discharges of Vn and P cells in Weaver mutant mice are modulated sinusoidally upon sinusoidal stimulation. The neuronal response amplitude at fundamental frequency (determined from peristimulus time histograms, PSTHs increased with frequency (0.05-0.5 Hz) for both Vn and floccular neurons. The stimulus frequency/response amplitude and sensitivity (re velocity) curves for floccular neurons are distinctly lower in magnitude than those of Vn neurons (P < 0.01). In our sample of neurons, the Vn neurons curves of the mutants display a remarkable be behavior: the mean value curve of type I neurons is shifted upward, indicating a loss of inhibition but that of type II, downward, demonstrating a downregulation in comparison with the control values. The difference between the two curves is statistically significant (P < 0.001). The mean value curve of all mutant Vn neurons depends on the different fractions of type I and type II neurons in the sample investigated. In our investigations, the mean value curves of both type I and type II neurons also exceed those of the normal controls. The phase shift relative to head angular velocity in the midfrequency range in Vn neurons was very similar to that in normal controls, but the phase advance in the range of 0.3-0.5 Hz was somewhat larger and the SD larger over the whole range tested. Concerning the phase relationship for floccular neurons, a major difference occurred in contrast to the normal controls: the phase lead and phase lag varied from neurons to neuron, in individual neurons from frequency to frequency, and in some neurons distinctly from trial to trail. It is hypothesized that an intact mossy fiber-granule cell-parallel fiber system plays an important role in an orderly information flow, transmitted through the P-cell axons, and that the morphological disruption has implications for target cell activity. There is a strong suggestion that the diverse behavior of type I and type II neurons in the Vn may have implications for the poor motor performance in Weaver mutant mice.

Effect of Real-Time Feedback on Screw Placement Into Synthetic Cancellous Bone.

PubMed

Gustafson, Peter A; Geeslin, Andrew G; Prior, David M; Chess, Joseph L

2016-08-01

The objective of this study is to evaluate whether real-time torque feedback may reduce the occurrence of stripping when inserting nonlocking screws through fracture plates into synthetic cancellous bone. Five attending orthopaedic surgeons and 5 senior level orthopaedic residents inserted 8 screws in each phase. In phase I, screws were inserted without feedback simulating conventional techniques. In phase II, screws were driven with visual torque feedback. In phase III, screws were again inserted with conventional techniques. Comparison of these 3 phases with respect to screw insertion torque, surgeon rank, and perception of stripping was used to establish the effects of feedback. Seventy-three of 239 screws resulted in stripping. During the first phase, no feedback was provided and the overall strip rate was 41.8%; this decreased to 15% with visual feedback (P < 0.001) and returned to 35% when repeated without feedback. With feedback, a lower average torque was applied over a narrower torque distribution. Residents stripped 40.8% of screws compared with 20.2% for attending surgeons. Surgeons were poor at perceiving whether they stripped. Prevention and identification of stripping is influenced by surgeon perception of tactile sensation. This is significantly improved with utilization of real-time visual feedback of a torque versus roll curve. This concept of real-time feedback seems beneficial toward performance in synthetic cancellous bone and may lead to improved fixation in cancellous bone in a surgical setting.

Prevalence, Correlates, and Prognosis of Peripheral Artery Disease in Rural Ecuador—Rationale, Protocol, and Phase I Results of a Population-Based Survey: An Atahualpa Project-Ancillary Study

PubMed Central

Del Brutto, Oscar H.; Sedler, Mark J.; Mera, Robertino M.; Castillo, Pablo R.; Cusick, Elizabeth H.; Gruen, Jadry A.; Phelan, Kelsie J.; Del Brutto, Victor J.; Zambrano, Mauricio; Brown, David L.

2014-01-01

Background. Little is known on the prevalence of peripheral artery disease (PAD) in developing countries. Study design. Population-based study in Atahualpa. In Phase I, the Edinburgh claudication questionnaire (ECQ) was used for detection of suspected symptomatic PAD; persons with a negative ECQ but a pulse pressure ≥65 mmHg were suspected of asymptomatic PAD. In Phase II, the ankle-brachial index will be used to test reliability of screening instruments and to determine PAD prevalence. In Phase III, participants will be followed up to estimate the relevance of PAD as a predictor of vascular outcomes. Results. During Phase I, 665 Atahualpa residents aged ≥40 years were enrolled (mean age: 59.5 ± 12.6 years, 58% women). A poor cardiovascular health status was noticed in 464 (70%) persons of which 27 (4%) had a stroke and 14 (2%) had ischemic heart disease. Forty-four subjects (7%) had suspected symptomatic PAD and 170 (26%) had suspected asymptomatic PAD. Individuals with suspected PAD were older, more often women, and had a worse cardiovascular profile than those with nonsuspected PAD. Conclusions. Prevalence of suspected PAD in this underserved population is high. Subsequent phases of this study will determine whether prompt detection of PAD is useful to reduce the incidence of catastrophic vascular diseases in the region. PMID:25389500

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)...

Application of a biphasic test for characterization of in vitro drug release of immediate release formulations of celecoxib and its relevance to in vivo absorption.

PubMed

Shi, Yi; Gao, Ping; Gong, Yuchuan; Ping, Haili

2010-10-04

A biphasic in vitro test method was used to examine release profiles of a poorly soluble model drug, celecoxib (CEB), from its immediate release formulations. Three formulations of CEB were investigated in this study, including a commercial Celebrex capsule, a solution formulation (containing cosolvent and surfactant) and a supersaturatable self-emulsifying drug delivery system (S-SEDDS). The biphasic test system consisted of an aqueous buffer and a water-immiscible organic solvent (e.g., octanol) with the use of both USP II and IV apparatuses. The aqueous phase provided a nonsink dissolution medium for CEB, while the octanol phase acted as a sink for CEB partitioning. For comparison, CEB concentration-time profiles of these formulations in the aqueous medium under either a sink condition or a nonsink condition were also explored. CEB release profiles of these formulations observed in the aqueous medium from either the sink condition test, the nonsink condition test, or the biphasic test have little relevance to the pharmacokinetic observations (e.g., AUC, C(max)) in human subjects. In contrast, a rank order correlation among the three CEB formulations is obtained between the in vitro AUC values of CEB from the octanol phase up to t = 2 h and the in vivo mean AUC (or C(max)) values. As the biphasic test permits a rapid removal of drug from the aqueous phase by partitioning into the organic phase, the amount of drug in the organic phase represents the amount of drug accumulated in systemic circulation in vivo. This hypothesis provides the scientific rationale for the rank order relationship among these CEB formulations between their CEB concentrations in the organic phase and the relative AUC or C(max). In addition, the biphasic test method permits differentiation and discrimination of key attributes among the three different CEB formulations. This work demonstrates that the biphasic in vitro test method appears to be useful as a tool in evaluating performance of formulations of poorly water-soluble drugs and to provide potential for establishing an in vitro-in vivo relationship.

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.

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.

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].

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.

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...

A facile strategy for achieving high selective Zn(II) fluorescence probe by regulating the solvent polarity.

PubMed

Wang, Haoping; Kang, Tiantian; Wang, Xiaoju; Feng, Liheng

2018-07-01

A simple Schiff base comprised of tris(2-aminoethyl)amine and salicylaldehyde was designed and synthesized by one-step reaction. Although this compound has poor selectivity for metal ions in acetonitrile, it shows high selectivity and sensitivity detection for Zn(II) ions through adjusting the solvent polarity (the volume ratio of CH 3 CN/H 2 O). In other words, this work provides a facile way to realize a transformation from poor to excellent feature for fluorescent probes. The bonding mode of this probe with Zn(II) ions was verified by 1 H NMR and MS assays. The stoichiometric ratio of the probe with Zn(II) is 1:1 (mole), which matches with the Job-plot assay. The detection limitation of the probe for Zn(II) is up to 1 × 10 -8 mol/L. The electrochemical property of the probe combined with Zn(II) was investigated by cyclic voltammetry method, and the result agreed with the theoretical calculation by the Gaussian 09 software. The probe for Zn(II) could be applied in practical samples and biological systems. The main contribution of this work lies in providing a very simple method to realize the selectivity transformation for poor selective probes. The providing way is a simple, easy and low-cost method for obtaining high selectively fluorescence probes. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Deferasirox for Treating Patients Who Have Undergone Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant and Have Iron Overload

ClinicalTrials.gov

2017-11-07

Iron Overload; Accelerated Phase Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia; Adult Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in Remission; Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia in Remission; Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia With 11q23 (MLL) Abnormalities; Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia With Del(5q); Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia With Inv(16)(p13;q22); Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia With t(15;17)(q22;q12); Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia With t(16;16)(p13;q22); Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia With t(8;21)(q22;q22); Atypical Chronic Myeloid Leukemia, BCR-ABL Negative; Blastic Phase Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia; Chronic Eosinophilic Leukemia; Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia; Chronic Neutrophilic Leukemia; Chronic Phase Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia; de Novo Myelodysplastic Syndromes; Disseminated Neuroblastoma; Extranodal Marginal Zone B-cell Lymphoma of Mucosa-associated Lymphoid Tissue; Myelodysplastic/Myeloproliferative Neoplasm, Unclassifiable; Nodal Marginal Zone B-cell Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Adult Burkitt Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Adult Diffuse Large Cell Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Adult Diffuse Mixed Cell Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Adult Diffuse Small Cleaved Cell Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Adult Immunoblastic Large Cell Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Adult Lymphoblastic Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Grade 1 Follicular Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Grade 2 Follicular Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Grade 3 Follicular Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Mantle Cell Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Marginal Zone Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma; Poor Prognosis Metastatic Gestational Trophoblastic Tumor; Previously Treated Myelodysplastic Syndromes; Primary Myelofibrosis; Recurrent Adult Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia; Recurrent Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia; Recurrent Adult Burkitt Lymphoma; Recurrent Adult Diffuse Large Cell Lymphoma; Recurrent Adult Diffuse Mixed Cell Lymphoma; Recurrent Adult Diffuse Small Cleaved Cell Lymphoma; Recurrent Adult Hodgkin Lymphoma; Recurrent Adult Immunoblastic Large Cell Lymphoma; Recurrent Adult Lymphoblastic Lymphoma; Recurrent Cutaneous T-cell Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma; Recurrent Grade 1 Follicular Lymphoma; Recurrent Grade 2 Follicular Lymphoma; Recurrent Grade 3 Follicular Lymphoma; Recurrent Malignant Testicular Germ Cell Tumor; Recurrent Mantle Cell Lymphoma; Recurrent Marginal Zone Lymphoma; Recurrent Mycosis Fungoides/Sezary Syndrome; Recurrent Neuroblastoma; Recurrent Ovarian Epithelial Cancer; Recurrent Ovarian Germ Cell Tumor; Recurrent Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma; Refractory Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia; Refractory Hairy Cell Leukemia; Relapsing Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia; Secondary Acute Myeloid Leukemia; Secondary Myelodysplastic Syndromes; Splenic Marginal Zone Lymphoma; Stage I Multiple Myeloma; Stage II Multiple Myeloma; Stage II Ovarian Epithelial Cancer; Stage III Adult Burkitt Lymphoma; Stage III Adult Diffuse Large Cell Lymphoma; Stage III Adult Diffuse Mixed Cell Lymphoma; Stage III Adult Diffuse Small Cleaved Cell Lymphoma; Stage III Adult Hodgkin Lymphoma; Stage III Adult Immunoblastic Large Cell Lymphoma; Stage III Adult Lymphoblastic Lymphoma; Stage III Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia; Stage III Grade 1 Follicular Lymphoma; Stage III Grade 2 Follicular Lymphoma; Stage III Grade 3 Follicular Lymphoma; Stage III Malignant Testicular Germ Cell Tumor; Stage III Mantle Cell Lymphoma; Stage III Marginal Zone Lymphoma; Stage III Multiple Myeloma; Stage III Ovarian Epithelial Cancer; Stage III Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma; Stage IIIA Breast Cancer; Stage IIIB Breast Cancer; Stage IIIC Breast Cancer; Stage IV Adult Burkitt Lymphoma; Stage IV Adult Diffuse Large Cell Lymphoma; Stage IV Adult Diffuse Mixed Cell Lymphoma; Stage IV Adult Diffuse Small Cleaved Cell Lymphoma; Stage IV Adult Hodgkin Lymphoma; Stage IV Adult Immunoblastic Large Cell Lymphoma; Stage IV Adult Lymphoblastic Lymphoma; Stage IV Breast Cancer; Stage IV Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia; Stage IV Grade 1 Follicular Lymphoma; Stage IV Grade 2 Follicular Lymphoma; Stage IV Grade 3 Follicular Lymphoma; Stage IV Mantle Cell Lymphoma; Stage IV Marginal Zone Lymphoma; Stage IV Ovarian Epithelial Cancer; Stage IV Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma

Ondansetron in Preventing Nausea and Vomiting in Patients Undergoing Stem Cell Transplant

ClinicalTrials.gov

2017-04-20

Accelerated Phase Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia; Adult Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in Remission; Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia in Remission; Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia With 11q23 (MLL) Abnormalities; Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia With Inv(16)(p13;q22); Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia With t(15;17)(q22;q12); Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia With t(16;16)(p13;q22); Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia With t(8;21)(q22;q22); Atypical Chronic Myeloid Leukemia, BCR-ABL Negative; Blastic Phase Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia; Chronic Eosinophilic Leukemia; Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia; Chronic Neutrophilic Leukemia; Chronic Phase Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia; de Novo Myelodysplastic Syndromes; Disseminated Neuroblastoma; Extranodal Marginal Zone B-cell Lymphoma of Mucosa-associated Lymphoid Tissue; Myelodysplastic/Myeloproliferative Neoplasm, Unclassifiable; Nodal Marginal Zone B-cell Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Adult Burkitt Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Adult Diffuse Large Cell Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Adult Diffuse Mixed Cell Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Adult Diffuse Small Cleaved Cell Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Adult Immunoblastic Large Cell Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Adult Lymphoblastic Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Grade 1 Follicular Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Grade 2 Follicular Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Grade 3 Follicular Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Mantle Cell Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Marginal Zone Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma; Poor Prognosis Metastatic Gestational Trophoblastic Tumor; Previously Treated Myelodysplastic Syndromes; Primary Myelofibrosis; Recurrent Adult Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia; Recurrent Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia; Recurrent Adult Burkitt Lymphoma; Recurrent Adult Diffuse Large Cell Lymphoma; Recurrent Adult Diffuse Mixed Cell Lymphoma; Recurrent Adult Diffuse Small Cleaved Cell Lymphoma; Recurrent Adult Hodgkin Lymphoma; Recurrent Adult Immunoblastic Large Cell Lymphoma; Recurrent Adult Lymphoblastic Lymphoma; Recurrent Childhood Large Cell Lymphoma; Recurrent Childhood Lymphoblastic Lymphoma; Recurrent Childhood Small Noncleaved Cell Lymphoma; Recurrent Cutaneous T-cell Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma; Recurrent Grade 1 Follicular Lymphoma; Recurrent Grade 2 Follicular Lymphoma; Recurrent Grade 3 Follicular Lymphoma; Recurrent Malignant Testicular Germ Cell Tumor; Recurrent Mantle Cell Lymphoma; Recurrent Marginal Zone Lymphoma; Recurrent Mycosis Fungoides/Sezary Syndrome; Recurrent Neuroblastoma; Recurrent Ovarian Epithelial Cancer; Recurrent Ovarian Germ Cell Tumor; Recurrent Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma; Recurrent/Refractory Childhood Hodgkin Lymphoma; Refractory Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia; Refractory Hairy Cell Leukemia; Relapsing Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia; Secondary Acute Myeloid Leukemia; Secondary Myelodysplastic Syndromes; Splenic Marginal Zone Lymphoma; Stage I Multiple Myeloma; Stage II Multiple Myeloma; Stage II Ovarian Epithelial Cancer; Stage III Adult Burkitt Lymphoma; Stage III Adult Diffuse Large Cell Lymphoma; Stage III Adult Diffuse Mixed Cell Lymphoma; Stage III Adult Diffuse Small Cleaved Cell Lymphoma; Stage III Adult Hodgkin Lymphoma; Stage III Adult Immunoblastic Large Cell Lymphoma; Stage III Adult Lymphoblastic Lymphoma; Stage III Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia; Stage III Grade 1 Follicular Lymphoma; Stage III Grade 2 Follicular Lymphoma; Stage III Grade 3 Follicular Lymphoma; Stage III Malignant Testicular Germ Cell Tumor; Stage III Mantle Cell Lymphoma; Stage III Marginal Zone Lymphoma; Stage III Multiple Myeloma; Stage III Ovarian Epithelial Cancer; Stage III Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma; Stage IIIA Breast Cancer; Stage IIIB Breast Cancer; Stage IIIC Breast Cancer; Stage IV Adult Burkitt Lymphoma; Stage IV Adult Diffuse Large Cell Lymphoma; Stage IV Adult Diffuse Mixed Cell Lymphoma; Stage IV Adult Diffuse Small Cleaved Cell Lymphoma; Stage IV Adult Hodgkin Lymphoma; Stage IV Adult Immunoblastic Large Cell Lymphoma; Stage IV Adult Lymphoblastic Lymphoma; Stage IV Breast Cancer; Stage IV Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia; Stage IV Grade 1 Follicular Lymphoma; Stage IV Grade 2 Follicular Lymphoma; Stage IV Grade 3 Follicular Lymphoma; Stage IV Mantle Cell Lymphoma; Stage IV Marginal Zone Lymphoma; Stage IV Ovarian Epithelial Cancer; Stage IV Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma

Mechanical Stimulation in Preventing Bone Density Loss in Patients Undergoing Donor Stem Cell Transplant

ClinicalTrials.gov

2012-07-05

Accelerated Phase Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia; Adult Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in Remission; Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia in Remission; Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia With 11q23 (MLL) Abnormalities; Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia With Del(5q); Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia With Inv(16)(p13;q22); Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia With t(15;17)(q22;q12); Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia With t(16;16)(p13;q22); Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia With t(8;21)(q22;q22); Atypical Chronic Myeloid Leukemia, BCR-ABL1 Negative; Blastic Phase Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia; Chronic Eosinophilic Leukemia; Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia; Chronic Neutrophilic Leukemia; Chronic Phase Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia; de Novo Myelodysplastic Syndromes; Disseminated Neuroblastoma; Extranodal Marginal Zone B-cell Lymphoma of Mucosa-associated Lymphoid Tissue; Myelodysplastic/Myeloproliferative Neoplasm, Unclassifiable; Nodal Marginal Zone B-cell Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Adult Burkitt Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Adult Diffuse Large Cell Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Adult Diffuse Mixed Cell Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Adult Diffuse Small Cleaved Cell Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Adult Immunoblastic Large Cell Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Adult Lymphoblastic Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Grade 1 Follicular Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Grade 2 Follicular Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Grade 3 Follicular Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Mantle Cell Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Marginal Zone Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma; Plasma Cell Neoplasm; Poor Prognosis Metastatic Gestational Trophoblastic Tumor; Previously Treated Myelodysplastic Syndromes; Primary Myelofibrosis; Prolymphocytic Leukemia; Recurrent Adult Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia; Recurrent Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia; Recurrent Adult Burkitt Lymphoma; Recurrent Adult Diffuse Large Cell Lymphoma; Recurrent Adult Diffuse Mixed Cell Lymphoma; Recurrent Adult Diffuse Small Cleaved Cell Lymphoma; Recurrent Adult Hodgkin Lymphoma; Recurrent Adult Immunoblastic Large Cell Lymphoma; Recurrent Adult Lymphoblastic Lymphoma; Recurrent Cutaneous T-cell Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma; Recurrent Grade 1 Follicular Lymphoma; Recurrent Grade 2 Follicular Lymphoma; Recurrent Grade 3 Follicular Lymphoma; Recurrent Malignant Testicular Germ Cell Tumor; Recurrent Mantle Cell Lymphoma; Recurrent Marginal Zone Lymphoma; Recurrent Mycosis Fungoides/Sezary Syndrome; Recurrent Neuroblastoma; Recurrent Ovarian Epithelial Cancer; Recurrent Ovarian Germ Cell Tumor; Recurrent Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma; Refractory Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia; Refractory Hairy Cell Leukemia; Relapsing Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia; Secondary Acute Myeloid Leukemia; Secondary Myelodysplastic Syndromes; Splenic Marginal Zone Lymphoma; Stage II Ovarian Epithelial Cancer; Stage II Ovarian Germ Cell Tumor; Stage III Adult Burkitt Lymphoma; Stage III Adult Diffuse Large Cell Lymphoma; Stage III Adult Diffuse Mixed Cell Lymphoma; Stage III Adult Diffuse Small Cleaved Cell Lymphoma; Stage III Adult Hodgkin Lymphoma; Stage III Adult Immunoblastic Large Cell Lymphoma; Stage III Adult Lymphoblastic Lymphoma; Stage III Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia; Stage III Grade 1 Follicular Lymphoma; Stage III Grade 2 Follicular Lymphoma; Stage III Grade 3 Follicular Lymphoma; Stage III Malignant Testicular Germ Cell Tumor; Stage III Mantle Cell Lymphoma; Stage III Marginal Zone Lymphoma; Stage III Ovarian Epithelial Cancer; Stage III Ovarian Germ Cell Tumor; Stage III Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma; Stage IIIA Breast Cancer; Stage IIIB Breast Cancer; Stage IIIC Breast Cancer; Stage IV Adult Burkitt Lymphoma; Stage IV Adult Diffuse Large Cell Lymphoma; Stage IV Adult Diffuse Mixed Cell Lymphoma; Stage IV Adult Diffuse Small Cleaved Cell Lymphoma; Stage IV Adult Hodgkin Lymphoma; Stage IV Adult Immunoblastic Large Cell Lymphoma; Stage IV Adult Lymphoblastic Lymphoma; Stage IV Breast Cancer; Stage IV Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia; Stage IV Grade 1 Follicular Lymphoma; Stage IV Grade 2 Follicular Lymphoma; Stage IV Grade 3 Follicular Lymphoma; Stage IV Mantle Cell Lymphoma; Stage IV Marginal Zone Lymphoma; Stage IV Ovarian Epithelial Cancer; Stage IV Ovarian Germ Cell Tumor; Stage IV Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma

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

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

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...

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

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.

A randomized, double-blind, cross-over, phase IV trial of oros-methylphenidate (CONCERTA(®)) and generic novo-methylphenidate ER-C (NOVO-generic).

PubMed

Fallu, Angelo; Dabouz, Farida; Furtado, Melissa; Anand, Leena; Katzman, Martin A

2016-08-01

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurobehavioral disorder with onset during childhood. Multiple aspects of a child's development are hindered, in both home and school settings, with negative impacts on social, emotional, and cognitive functioning. If left untreated, ADHD is commonly associated with poor academic achievement and low occupational status, as well as increased risk of substance abuse and delinquency. The objective of this study was to evaluate adult ADHD subject reported outcomes when switched from a stable dose of CONCERTA(®) to the same dose of generic Novo-methylphenidate ER-C(®). Randomized, double-blind, cross-over, phase IV trial consisted of two phases in which participants with a primary diagnosis of ADHD were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to 3 weeks of treatment with CONCERTA or generic Novo-Methylphenidate ER-C. Following 3 weeks of treatment, participants were crossed-over to receive the other treatment for an additional 3 weeks. Primary efficacy was assessed through the use of the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication, Version II (TSQM-II). Participants with ADHD treated with CONCERTA were more satisfied in terms of efficacy and side effects compared to those receiving an equivalent dose of generic Novo-Methylphenidate ER-C. All participants chose to continue with CONCERTA treatment at the conclusion of the study. Although CONCERTA and generic Novo-Methylphenidate ER-C have been deemed bioequivalent, however the present findings demonstrate clinically and statistically significant differences between generic and branded CONCERTA. Further investigation of these differences is warranted.

AOI 1— COMPUTATIONAL ENERGY SCIENCES:MULTIPHASE FLOW RESEARCH High-fidelity multi-phase radiation module for modern coal combustion systems

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

Modest, Michael

The effects of radiation in particle-laden flows were the object of the present research. The presence of particles increases optical thickness substantially, making the use of the “optically thin” approximation in most cases a very poor assumption. However, since radiation fluxes peak at intermediate optical thicknesses, overall radiative effects may not necessarily be stronger than in gas combustion. Also, the spectral behavior of particle radiation properties is much more benign, making spectral models simpler (and making the assumption of a gray radiator halfway acceptable, at least for fluidized beds when gas radiation is not large). On the other hand, particlesmore » scatter radiation, making the radiative transfer equation (RTE) much more di fficult to solve. The research carried out in this project encompassed three general areas: (i) assessment of relevant radiation properties of particle clouds encountered in fluidized bed and pulverized coal combustors, (ii) development of proper spectral models for gas–particulate mixtures for various types of two-phase combustion flows, and (iii) development of a Radiative Transfer Equation (RTE) solution module for such applications. The resulting models were validated against artificial cases since open literature experimental data were not available. The final models are in modular form tailored toward maximum portability, and were incorporated into two research codes: (i) the open-source CFD code OpenFOAM, which we have extensively used in our previous work, and (ii) the open-source multi-phase flow code MFIX, which is maintained by NETL.« less

The providers' profile of the disability support workforce in New Zealand.

PubMed

Jorgensen, Diane; Parsons, Matthew; Reid, Michelle Gundersen; Weidenbohm, Kate; Parsons, John; Jacobs, Stephen

2009-07-01

To understand one of the predominant groups supporting people with disabilities and illness, this study examined the profile of New Zealand paid caregivers, including their training needs. Paid caregivers, also known as healthcare assistants, caregivers and home health aides, work across several long-term care settings, such as residential homes, continuing-care hospitals and also private homes. Their roles include assisting with personal care and household management. New Zealand, similar to other countries, is facing a health workforce shortage. A three-phased design was used: phase I, a survey of all home-based and residential care providers (N = 942, response rate = 45%); phase II, a targeted survey of training needs (n = 107, response = 100%); phase III, four focus groups and 14 interviews with 36 providers, exploring themes arising from phases I and II. Findings on 17,910 paid caregivers revealed a workforce predominantly female (94%), aged between 40 and 50, with 6% over the age of 60. Mean hourly pay NZ$10.90 (minimum wage NZ$10.00 approx. UK3.00 at time of study) and 24 hours per week. The national paid caregiver turnover was 29% residential care and 39% community. Most providers recognised the importance of training, but felt their paid caregivers were not adequately trained. Training was poorly attended; reasons cited were funding, family, secondary employment, staff turnover, low pay and few incentives. The paid caregiver profile described reflects trends also observed in other countries. There is a clear policy direction in New Zealand and other countries to support people with a disability at home, and yet the workforce which is facilitating this vision is itself highly vulnerable. Paid caregivers have minimum pay, are female, work part-time and although it is recognised that training is important for them, they do not attend, so consequently remain untrained.

Temozolomide Plus Bevacizumab in Elderly Patients with Newly Diagnosed Glioblastoma and Poor Performance Status: An ANOCEF Phase II Trial (ATAG).

PubMed

Reyes-Botero, Germán; Cartalat-Carel, Stéphanie; Chinot, Olivier L; Barrie, Maryline; Taillandier, Luc; Beauchesne, Patrick; Catry-Thomas, Isabelle; Barrière, Jérôme; Guillamo, Jean-Sebastien; Fabbro, Michel; Frappaz, Didier; Benouaich-Amiel, Alexandra; Le Rhun, Emilie; Campello, Chantal; Tennevet, Isabelle; Ghiringhelli, François; Tanguy, Marie-Laure; Mokhtari, Karima; Honnorat, Jérôme; Delattre, Jean-Yves

2018-05-01

Results suggest that the combination of bevacizumab plus temozolomide is active in terms of response rate, survival, performance, quality of life, and cognition in elderly patients with glioblastoma multiforme with poor performance status.Whether this combination is superior to temozolomide alone remains to be demonstrated by a randomized study. The optimal treatment of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) in patients aged ≥70 years with a Karnofsky performance status (KPS) <70 is not established. This clinical trial evaluated the efficacy and safety of upfront temozolomide (TMZ) and bevacizumab (Bev) in patients aged ≥70 years and a KPS <70. Patients aged ≥70 years with a KPS <70 and biopsy-proven GBM were eligible for this multicenter, prospective, nonrandomized, phase II trial of older patients with impaired performance status. Treatment consisted of TMZ administered at 130-150 mg/m 2 per day for 5 days every 4 weeks plus Bev administered at 10 mg/kg every 2 weeks. The trial included 66 patients (median age of 76 years; median KPS of 60). The median overall survival (OS) was 23.9 weeks (95% confidence interval [CI], 19-27.6), and the median progression-free survival (PFS) was 15.3 weeks (95% CI, 12.9-19.3). Twenty-two (33%) patients became transiently capable of self-care (i.e., KPS >70). Cognition and quality of life significantly improved over time during treatment. Grade ≥3 hematological adverse events occurred in 13 (20%) patients, high blood pressure in 16 (24%), venous thromboembolism in 3 (4.5%), cerebral hemorrhage in 2 (3%), and intestinal perforation in 2 (3%). This study suggests that TMZ + Bev treatment is active in elderly patients with GBM with low KPS and has an acceptable tolerance level. ©AlphaMed Press; the data published online to support this summary is the property of the authors.

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.

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.

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.

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…

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.

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.

Efficacy of rintatolimod in the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME)

PubMed Central

Mitchell, William M

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT Chronic fatigue syndrome/ Myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) is a poorly understood seriously debilitating disorder in which disabling fatigue is an universal symptom in combination with a variety of variable symptoms. The only drug in advanced clinical development is rintatolimod, a mismatched double stranded polymer of RNA (dsRNA). Rintatolimod is a restricted Toll-Like Receptor 3 (TLR3) agonist lacking activation of other primary cellular inducers of innate immunity (e.g.- cytosolic helicases). Rintatolimod also activates interferon induced proteins that require dsRNA for activity (e.g.- 2ʹ-5ʹ adenylate synthetase, protein kinase R). Rintatolimod has achieved statistically significant improvements in primary endpoints in Phase II and Phase III double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials with a generally well tolerated safety profile and supported by open-label trials in the United States and Europe. The chemistry, mechanism of action, clinical trial data, and current regulatory status of rintatolimod for CFS/ME including current evidence for etiology of the syndrome are reviewed. PMID:27045557

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

Effects of Cobalt on Manganese Oxidation by Pseudomonas putida MnB1

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pena, J.; Bargar, J.; Sposito, G.

2005-12-01

The oxidation of Mn(II) in the environment is thought to occur predominantly through biologically mediated pathways. During the stationary phase of growth, the well-characterized freshwater and soil bacterium Pseudomonas putida MnB1 oxidizes soluble Mn(II) to a poorly crystalline layer type Mn(IV) oxide. These Mn oxide particles (2 - 5 nm thickness) are deposited in a matrix of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) surrounding the cell, creating a multi-component system distinct from commonly studied synthetic Mn oxides. Accurate characterization of the reactivity of these biomineral assemblages is essential to understanding trace metal biogeochemistry in natural waters and sediments. Moreover, these biogenic oxides may potentially be used for the remediation of surface and ground waters impacted by mining, industrial pollution, and other anthropogenic activities. In this study, we consider the interactions between Co, P. putida MnB1, and its biogenic Mn oxide. Cobalt is a redox-active transition metal which exists in the environment as Co(II) and Co(III). While Co is not generally found in the environment at toxic concentrations, it may be released as a byproduct of mining activities (e.g. levels of up to 20 μM are found in Pinal Creek, AZ, a stream affected by copper mining). In addition, the radionuclide 60Co, formed by neutron activation in nuclear reactors, is of concern at Department of Energy sites, such as that at Hanford, and has several industrial applications, including radiotherapy. We address the following questions: Do high levels of Co inhibit enzymatic processes such as Mn(II) oxidation? Can the multicopper oxidase enzyme involved in Mn(II) oxidation facilitate Co(II) oxidation? Lastly, does the organic matter surrounding the oxides affect Co or Mn oxide reactivity? These issues were approached via wet chemical analysis, synchrotron radiation X-ray diffraction (SR-XRD), and extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectroscopy. In the presence of both Mn (1 mM) and Co (10-40 μM), Mn oxidation proceeded as it does in the absence of Co; SR-XRD data did not indicate the formation of a separate Co oxide phase, and EXAFS data showed that Co is incorporated into the biooxide structure as Co(III). In the absence of Mn, Co oxide formation was not observed; EXAFS data showed that Co remains as Co(II) and is complexed to cells or EPS. While it cannot be ascertained that Co(II) oxidation and incorporation into the bioxides is completely abiotic, Co(II) is not oxidized by P. putida MnB1 in the absence of Mn.

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.

An AeroCom Assessment of Black Carbon in Arctic Snow and Sea Ice

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jiao, C.; Flanner, M. G.; Balkanski, Y.; Bauer, S. E.; Bellouin, N.; Bernsten, T. K.; Bian, H.; Carslaw, K. S.; Chin, M.; DeLuca, N.;

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.

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…

[Experimental model of tooth decay as an educational tool for school-age children].

PubMed

de Araújo Silva, Thiago Fernando; Feitosa, José Leonilson; Medeiros Dantas, Rodrigo Maristony; Dantas de Medeiros, Fabianna da Conceição; Cavalcanti Lima, Isabela Pinheiro; Guerra Seabra, Eduardo José

2016-04-01

Objective This work consisted of the construction of an educational in vitro model of dental caries that started with an adaptation of Miller's classic experiment. Methods In a sterilized and sealed glass jar, a sample paste of human saliva was collected and a substrate of manufactured sugar (sucrose) was added. In addition, a human tooth with healthy dental crown extracted in dental treatment but otherwise healthy was added. Research phase I had the negative control sample test (tooth + saliva without added) and the others were opened after 1, 2, 3 and 4 months of incubation. This phase was essential for the next experimental time development. In phase II, two saliva donors with poor levels of oral health habits were recruited. The incubation time (defined by phase I) was 2 and 3 months for each donor. Results This research data gives the possibility of building educational materials about the etiology of tooth decay and its clinical evolution. It also makes possible the production of an explanatory sheet about how to reproduce this experimental model to be used by school children in secondary education. Conclusions Doing this kind of work together at school can help reduce inequities in oral health, especially since there is an approximation toward the discourses, facilitating the process of information dissemination.

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.

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.

Management of Endurance Risk Factors: A Guide for Deep Draft Vessels

DTIC Science & Technology

2001-02-01

Poor diet (frequent fried foods, high fat and sugar content, frequent caffeine consumption) • High workload (high physical and/or mental effort...Appendix A) q 8. Poor diet (menu includes frequent fried foods, high fat and sugar content, frequent caffeine consumption; see Section II-4, and II...into glucose (or sugar ), amino acids, and fatty acids. Cells throughout the body then process these compounds to make energy or ATP

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.

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.

Effects of angiotensin II type 2 receptor overexpression on the growth of hepatocellular carcinoma cells in vitro and in vivo.

PubMed

Du, Hongyan; Liang, Zhibing; Zhang, Yanling; Jie, Feilong; Li, Jinlong; Fei, Yang; Huang, Zhi; Pei, Nana; Wang, Suihai; Li, Andrew; Chen, Baihong; Zhang, Yi; Sumners, Colin; Li, Ming; Li, Hongwei

2013-01-01

Increasing evidence suggests that the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) plays an important role in tumorigenesis. The interaction between Angiotensin II (AngII) and angiotensin type 1 receptor (AT1R) may have a pivotal role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and therefore, AT1R blocker and angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors may have therapeutic potential in the treatment of hepatic cancer. Although the involvement of AT1R has been well explored, the role of the angiotensin II Type 2 receptor (AT2R) in HCC progression remains poorly understood. Thus, the aim of this study was to explore the effects of AT2R overexpression on HCC cells in vitro and in mouse models of human HCC. An AT2R recombinant adenoviral vector (Ad-G-AT2R-EGFP) was transduced into HCC cell lines and orthotopic tumor grafts. The results indicate that the high dose of Ad-G-AT2R-EGFP-induced overexpression of AT2R in transduced HCC cell lines produced apoptosis. AT2R overexpression in SMMC7721 cells inhibited cell proliferation with a significant reduction of S-phase cells and an enrichment of G1-phase cells through changing expression of CDK4 and cyclinD1. The data also indicate that overexpression of AT2R led to apoptosis via cell death signaling pathway that is dependent on activation of p38 MAPK, pJNK, caspase-8 and caspase-3 and inactivation of pp42/44 MAPK (Erk1/2). Finally, we demonstrated that moderately increasing AT2R expression could increase the growth of HCC tumors and the proliferation of HCC cells in vivo. Our findings suggest that AT2R overexpression regulates proliferation of hepatocellular carcinoma cells in vitro and in vivo, and the precise mechanisms of this phenomenon are yet to be fully determined.

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

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

Phase II randomized trial comparing high-dose IFN-α2b with temozolomide plus cisplatin as systemic adjuvant therapy for resected mucosal melanoma.

PubMed

Lian, Bin; Si, Lu; Cui, Chuanliang; Chi, Zhihong; Sheng, Xinan; Mao, Lili; Li, Siming; Kong, Yan; Tang, Bixia; Guo, Jun

2013-08-15

Mucosal melanoma is rare and associated with extremely poor prognosis. However, standard adjuvant therapy for mucosal melanoma has not been established. We conducted a randomized phase II clinical trial in patients with resected mucosal melanoma to compare the efficacy and safety of high-dose IFN-α2b (HDI) and temozolomide-based chemotherapy as adjuvant therapy. Patients with mucosal melanoma in stage II/III after surgery were randomized into three groups: observation group (group A, surgery alone), HDI group (group B, treated with 15 × 10(6) U/m(2)/d IFN-α2b, followed by 9 × 10(6) U IFN-α2b), and temozolomide (200 mg/m(2)/d) plus cisplatin (75 mg/m(2)) group (group C). The endpoints were relapse-free survival (RFS), overall survival (OS), and toxicities. One hundred and eighty-nine patients were enrolled and finally analyzed. With a median follow-up of 26.8 months, the median RFS was 5.4, 9.4, and 20.8 months for group A, B, and C, respectively. Estimated median OS for group A, B, and C was 21.2, 40.4, and 48.7 months, respectively. Patients treated with temozolomide plus cisplatin showed significant improvements in RFS (P < 0.001) and OS (P < 0.01) than those treated with either HDI or surgery alone. Toxicities were generally mild to moderate. Both temozolomide-based chemotherapy and HDI are effective and safe as adjuvant therapies for resected mucosal melanoma as compared with observation alone. However, HDI tends to be less effective than temozolomide-based chemotherapy for patients with resected mucosal melanoma in respect to RFS. The temozolomide plus cisplatin regimen might be a better choice for patients with resected mucosal melanoma. ©2013 AACR.

Structured interview versus self-report test vantages for the assessment of personality pathology in cocaine dependence.

PubMed

Marlowe, D B; Husband, S D; Bonieskie, L M; Kirby, K C; Platt, J J

1997-01-01

The study compared structured interview (SCID-II) and self-report test (MCMI-II) vantages for the detection and characterization of personality pathology among 144 urban, poor, cocaine-addicted individuals seeking outpatient treatment. Diagnostic agreement was inadequate for most disorders, and the instruments at best shared only modest common variance. Positive predictive power was poor for all MCMI-II scales, though negative predictive power was good to excellent. This lends support for the use of the MCMI-II as a screening measure to rule out Axis II disorders; however, confirmation of positive diagnoses will require follow-up interview assessment. Future development of self-report personality inventories for substance abusers should focus on controlling for the acute dysphoric effects of drug use and related dysfunction, expanding attention to Cluster B content domains, and incorporating more objective criteria for assessing paranoia and "odd/eccentric" traits.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone II receptor (GnRHR-II) knockdown reduces testis size and decreases testosterone secretion during pubertal development in swine

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The second mammalian isoform of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH-II) functions quite differently from the classical form (GnRH-I) as it is a poor stimulator of gonadotropin release. Unlike most species, a functional GnRHR-II has been identified in swine. Our laboratory detected GnRHR-IIs on Leyd...

Cu(II) removal by Anoxybacillus flavithermus-iron oxide composites during the addition of Fe(II)aq

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Franzblau, Rachel E.; Daughney, Christopher J.; Swedlund, Peter J.; Weisener, Christopher G.; Moreau, Magali; Johannessen, Bernt; Harmer, Sarah L.

2016-01-01

There is currently poor understanding of metal removal by composites of bacteria and iron oxide minerals, even though they commonly co-occur and are among the most important sorbents in near-surface fluid-rock environments. This study evaluated Cu removal by composites of Anoxybacillus flavithermus and iron oxide over time during the addition, oxidation, and hydrolysis of Fe(II)aq and precipitation of the mineral, in comparison to Cu removal in the two single-sorbent end-member systems. In the absence of iron oxide, Cu removal by A. flavithermus was well described by a previously published surface complexation model, after inclusion of additional reactions describing aqueous complexation by exudate ligands released by the bacteria. In the absence of bacterial cells, Cu removal by iron oxide synthesized in the presence of the bacterial exudate ligands demonstrated the formation of ternary surface complexes. Removal of Cu by the A. flavithermus-iron oxide composites was ca. 20% greater than the prediction based on assumption of additivity in the two end-member systems. This non-additive behavior was attributed to (1) progressive physical blockage of bacterial surface sites by the iron oxide particles, (2) physical blockage of adsorption sites as a result of self-aggregation of the iron oxide particles, and (3) the reduction of Cu(II) to Cu(I) at the bacterial cell surface, as demonstrated by X-ray absorption spectroscopy. The extent of reduction of Cu(II) to Cu(I) was proportional to the concentration of solid phase Fe(II), suggesting that iron oxidation and copper reduction are linked. This study has shown that Cu removal by bacteria-iron oxide composites is greatly affected by redox processes such as Cu(II) reduction on the cell surface both by other bacterial surface ligands and the oxidation of sorbed Fe(II), as well as Fe(II) redox interactions, and aging effects of the mineral (i.e. surface site masking).

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…

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.

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 &

On the predictability of extreme events in records with linear and nonlinear long-range memory: Efficiency and noise robustness

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bogachev, Mikhail I.; Bunde, Armin

2011-06-01

We study the predictability of extreme events in records with linear and nonlinear long-range memory in the presence of additive white noise using two different approaches: (i) the precursory pattern recognition technique (PRT) that exploits solely the information about short-term precursors, and (ii) the return interval approach (RIA) that exploits long-range memory incorporated in the elapsed time after the last extreme event. We find that the PRT always performs better when only linear memory is present. In the presence of nonlinear memory, both methods demonstrate comparable efficiency in the absence of white noise. When additional white noise is present in the record (which is the case in most observational records), the efficiency of the PRT decreases monotonously with increasing noise level. In contrast, the RIA shows an abrupt transition between a phase of low level noise where the prediction is as good as in the absence of noise, and a phase of high level noise where the prediction becomes poor. In the phase of low and intermediate noise the RIA predicts considerably better than the PRT, which explains our recent findings in physiological and financial records.

Enhancing Water Purification via Graphene Oxide, Holey Graphene Oxide, and Lignin Membrane Architectures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Buelke, Chris

Freshwater available for human consumption has declined in recent years due to many factors. Additionally, NASA has made it known that missions into deep space will require advances in water purification systems. Graphene oxide (GO) membranes have been demonstrated to be an effective purifier of water due to their unique architecture. Holey-graphene oxide (hGO), developed at NASA Langley Research Center, is similar to GO but hosts a more porous structure. Lignin-based membranes were also analyzed. This thesis investigates the membrane performances of these three membrane architectures to purify water. The membranes were prepared in varying thicknesses via vacuum filtration. Experiments were done in two phases. Phase I used a forward osmosis setup to examine membranes' ion rejection. Phase II used dead-end filtration and examined ion rejection, organic molecule rejection and water flux. GO showed a significant increase in ion rejection for NaCl, but showed decreased water flux. hGO showed a significant increase in ion rejection for MgCl2. Organic molecule was increased by 15.8% for hGO over the control. Poor overall performance for ion rejection for both membranes is attributable to an increase in the intersheet distance inside the membranes due to hydration.

Disambiguating ambiguous biomedical terms in biomedical narrative text: an unsupervised method.

PubMed

Liu, H; Lussier, Y A; Friedman, C

2001-08-01

With the growing use of Natural Language Processing (NLP) techniques for information extraction and concept indexing in the biomedical domain, a method that quickly and efficiently assigns the correct sense of an ambiguous biomedical term in a given context is needed concurrently. The current status of word sense disambiguation (WSD) in the biomedical domain is that handcrafted rules are used based on contextual material. The disadvantages of this approach are (i) generating WSD rules manually is a time-consuming and tedious task, (ii) maintenance of rule sets becomes increasingly difficult over time, and (iii) handcrafted rules are often incomplete and perform poorly in new domains comprised of specialized vocabularies and different genres of text. This paper presents a two-phase unsupervised method to build a WSD classifier for an ambiguous biomedical term W. The first phase automatically creates a sense-tagged corpus for W, and the second phase derives a classifier for W using the derived sense-tagged corpus as a training set. A formative experiment was performed, which demonstrated that classifiers trained on the derived sense-tagged corpora achieved an overall accuracy of about 97%, with greater than 90% accuracy for each individual ambiguous term.

Knockdown of the GnRH-II receptor in the porcine testis impairs the biosynthesis of 10 gonadal steroids

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The second mammalian GnRH isoform (GnRH-II) and its cognate receptor (GnRHR-II) are poor modulators of gonadotropin secretion in swine. However, both are abundantly produced within the porcine testis suggesting an autocrine/paracrine role. Within the boar testis, GnRHR-II immunolocalizes to the plas...

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...

Evaluation of a biphasic in vitro dissolution test for estimating the bioavailability of carbamazepine polymorphic forms.

PubMed

Deng, Jia; Staufenbiel, Sven; Bodmeier, Roland

2017-07-15

The purpose of this study was to discriminate three crystal forms of carbamazepine (a BCS II drug) by in vitro dissolution testing and to correlate in vitro data with published in vivo data. A biphasic dissolution system (phosphate buffer pH6.8 and octanol) was used to evaluate the dissolution of the three polymorphic forms and to compare it with conventional single phase dissolution tests performed under sink and non-sink conditions. Similar dissolution profiles of three polymorphic forms were observed in the conventional dissolution test under sink conditions. Although a difference in dissolution was seen in the single phase dissolution test under non-sink conditions as well as in the aqueous phase of the biphasic test, little relevance for in vivo data was observed. In contrast, the biphasic dissolution system could discriminate between the different polymorphic forms in the octanol phase with a ranking of form III>form I>dihydrate form. This was in agreement with the in vivo performance. The dissolved drug available for oral absorption, which was dominated by dissolution and solution-mediated phase transformation, could be reflected in the biphasic dissolution test. Moreover, a good correlation was established between in vitro dissolution in the octanol phase of the biphasic test and in vivo pharmacokinetic data (R 2 =0.99). The biphasic dissolution method is a valuable tool to discriminate between different crystal forms in the formulations of poorly soluble drugs. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

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.

A Phase II Randomized Trial (GO27827) of First‐Line FOLFOX Plus Bevacizumab with or Without the MET Inhibitor Onartuzumab in Patients with Metastatic Colorectal Cancer

PubMed Central

Hochster, Howard; Hart, Lowell L.; Firdaus, Irfan; Mace, Joseph R.; McFarlane, Joshua J.; Kozloff, Mark; Catenacci, Daniel; Hsu, Jessie J.; Hack, Stephen P.; Shames, David S.; Phan, See‐Chun; Koeppen, Hartmut; Cohn, Allen L.

2017-01-01

Abstract Background. Dysregulated hepatocyte growth factor/mesenchymal‐epithelial transition (MET) signaling is associated with poor prognosis and resistance to vascular endothelial growth factor inhibition in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). We report outcomes from a double‐blind, multicenter phase II trial of the MET inhibitor onartuzumab in combination with mFOLFOX‐6 and bevacizumab for mCRC (GO27827; NCT01418222). Materials and Methods. Patients were randomized 1:1 to receive onartuzumab (10 mg/kg intravenously [IV]) or placebo plus mFOLFOX‐6 and bevacizumab (5 mg/kg IV). Oxaliplatin was given for 8–12 cycles; other agents were continued until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, or death. The primary endpoint was progression‐free survival (PFS) in the intent‐to‐treat (ITT) and MET immunohistochemistry (IHC) expression‐positive populations. Results. Between September 2011 and November 2012, 194 patients were enrolled. In September 2013, an interim analysis recommended stopping onartuzumab treatment due to lack of efficacy. At the time of the final analysis in February 2014, no significant improvement in PFS was seen with onartuzumab versus placebo in either the ITT or MET IHC‐positive populations. An improvement in PFS was noted in the MET IHC‐negative population. Neither overall survival nor response rate was improved with onartuzumab. The incidence of fatigue, peripheral edema, and deep vein thrombosis was increased with onartuzumab relative to placebo. Conclusion. Onartuzumab combined with mFOLFOX‐6 and bevacizumab did not significantly improve efficacy outcomes in either the ITT or MET IHC‐positive populations. MET expression by IHC was not a predictive biomarker in this setting. Implications for Practice. The addition of onartuzumab to mFOLFOX‐6 plus bevacizumab did not improve outcomes in patients with previously untreated metastatic colorectal cancer in this randomized, phase II study. Although initial results with onartuzumab were promising, a number of phase II/III clinical trials have reported a lack of improvement in efficacy with onartuzumab combined with standard‐of‐care therapies in several tumor types. Furthermore, negative study data have been published for rilotumumab and ficlatuzumab, both of which block hepatocyte growth factor binding to the mesenchymal‐epithelial transition (MET) receptor. MET immunohistochemistry was not a predictive biomarker. It remains to be seen if other biomarkers or small molecule inhibitors may be more appropriate for inhibiting this oncogenic pathway. PMID:28209746

Identification and Manipulation of a Novel Signaling Mechanism to Improve Articular Cartilage Restoration After Posttraumatic Joint Injury

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-10-01

collagen II (COL II). As a result, the newly-formed fibrocartilage has poor biomechanical properties and often evidences poor integration with the... fibrocartilage generation at the site of injury defines a new potential avenue of intervention in the field of cartilage restoration. We defined the...lysophosphatidic acid (LPA)-autotaxin (ATX; encoded by the ENPP2 gene) signaling axis as an important mediator of fibrocartilage formation both in vitro and in

Reliability Programs for Nonelectronic Designs. Volume 1

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-04-01

to the system or component levels or to both and then Its degree of effectiveness. DOCUMENT ID TITLE/SUBJECT APPLICATION EFFECTIVENESS Sys ./Comp/Both...ID TITLE/SUBJECT APPLICATION EFFECTIVENESS ’ Sys ./Comp/Both Exc./Good/Poor MIL-STD-781B Reliability Tests Exponen- 1 1 1 1 Ii II tial Distribution MIL...DOCUMENT ID TITLE/SUBJECT APPLICATION EFFECTIVENESS Sys ./Comp/Both Exc./Good/Poor MIL-STD-1535A Supplier Quality Assurance I 1 I1 I 1 1 I Program

Synaptogenesis in retino-receptive layers of the superior colliculus of the opossum Didelphis marsupialis.

PubMed

Correa-Gillieron, E M; Cavalcante, L A

1999-08-01

The maturation of the neuropil and synapse formation were examined in the retino-receptive layers of the superior colliculus (SCr-r) in the opossum from a period prior to the onset of arborization of retinocollicular fibers (postnatal day 22 - P22), at 44% of the coecal period (CP), to the end of the fast phase of optic fiber myelination and weaning time (P81 - 118% CP). Development of the SCr-r neuropil follows a protracted time course and can be divided into three broad stages, which are characterized by (I) Large extracellular spaces, numerous growth cones that participate rarely in synaptic junctions, vesicles-poor immature synapses (P22-P30), (II) Synapses of varied morphology with abundant synaptic vesicles, and small terminals with dark mitochondria and round synaptic vesicles (RSD terminals) synapsing mostly onto dendritic shafts, flat-vesicles (F) terminals (P40-P56), (III) Sequential appearance of retinal (R) and pleomorphic-vesicles (P) terminals and of RSD terminals synapsing onto spine or spine-like processes, appearance of glomerulus-like synaptic arrays (synaptic islets) (P61-P81). The advancement of synaptogenesis in SCr-r from stage I to II and from stage II to III correlates closely with the differentiation of astrocytes and oligodendrocytes, respectively.

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...

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

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.

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

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.

Efficient Destruction of Pollutants in Water by a Dual-Reaction-Center Fenton-like Process over Carbon Nitride Compounds-Complexed Cu(II)-CuAlO2.

PubMed

Lyu, Lai; Yan, Dengbiao; Yu, Guangfei; Cao, Wenrui; Hu, Chun

2018-04-03

Carbon nitride compounds (CN) complexed with the in-situ-produced Cu(II) on the surface of CuAlO 2 substrate (CN-Cu(II)-CuAlO 2 ) is prepared via a surface growth process for the first time and exhibits exceptionally high activity and efficiency for the degradation of the refractory pollutants in water through a Fenton-like process in a wide pH range. The reaction rate for bisphenol A removal is ∼25 times higher than that of the CuAlO 2 . According to the characterization, Cu(II) generation on the surface of CuAlO 2 during the surface growth process results in the marked decrease of the surface oxygen vacancies and the formation of the C-O-Cu bridges between CN and Cu(II)-CuAlO 2 in the catalyst. The electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) analysis and density functional theory (DFT) calculations demonstrate that the dual reaction centers are produced around the Cu and C sites due to the cation-π interactions through the C-O-Cu bridges in CN-Cu(II)-CuAlO 2 . During the Fenton-like reactions, the electron-rich center around Cu is responsible for the efficient reduction of H 2 O 2 to • OH, and the electron-poor center around C captures electrons from H 2 O 2 or pollutants and diverts them to the electron-rich area via the C-O-Cu bridge. Thus, the catalyst exhibits excellent catalytic performance for the refractory pollutant degradation. This study can deepen our understanding on the enhanced Fenton reactivity for water purification through functionalizing with organic solid-phase ligands on the catalyst surface.

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.

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...

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)

Nintedanib: evidence for its therapeutic potential in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

PubMed Central

Inomata, Minoru; Nishioka, Yasuhiko; Azuma, Arata

2015-01-01

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive disease with poor prognosis. The molecular mechanisms involved in the progression of IPF are not fully understood; however, the platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)/PDGF receptor pathway is thought to play a critical role in fibrogenesis of the lungs. Other growth factors, including fibroblast growth factor and vascular endothelial growth factor, are also thought to contribute to the pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis. Nintedanib is an inhibitor of multiple tyrosine kinases, including receptors for PDGF, fibroblast growth factor, and vascular endothelial growth factor. In the Phase II TOMORROW trial, treatment with 150 mg of nintedanib twice daily showed a trend to slow the decline in lung function and significantly decrease acute exacerbations in patients with IPF, while showing an acceptable safety profile. The Phase III INPULSIS trials demonstrated a significant decrease in the annual rate of decline in forced vital capacity in IPF patients treated with 150 mg nintedanib twice daily. In the INPULSIS-2 trial, the time to the first acute exacerbation significantly increased in IPF patients who were treated with 150 mg of nintedanib twice daily. Pirfenidone, another antifibrotic drug, was shown to limit the decline in pulmonary function in patients with IPF in the ASCEND trial. Combination therapy with nintedanib and pirfenidone is anticipated, although further evaluation of its long-term safety is needed. There is limited evidence for the safety of the combination therapy although a Phase II trial conducted in Japan demonstrated that combination therapy with nintedanib and pirfenidone was tolerable for 1 month. Available antifibrotic agents (ie, pirfenidone and N-acetylcysteine) have limited efficacy as single therapies for IPF; therefore, further study of combination therapy with antifibrotic agents is needed. PMID:26346347

A sense of urgency: Evaluating the link between clinical trial development time and the accrual performance of cancer therapy evaluation program (NCI-CTEP) sponsored studies.

PubMed

Cheng, Steven K; Dietrich, Mary S; Dilts, David M

2010-11-15

Postactivation barriers to oncology clinical trial accruals are well documented; however, potential barriers prior to trial opening are not. We investigate one such barrier: trial development time. National Cancer Institute Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (CTEP)-sponsored trials for all therapeutic, nonpediatric phase I, I/II, II, and III studies activated between 2000 and 2004 were investigated for an 8-year period (n = 419). Successful trials were those achieving 100% of minimum accrual goal. Time to open a study was the calendar time from initial CTEP submission to trial activation. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to calculate unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios (OR), controlling for study phase and size of expected accruals. Among the CTEP-approved oncology trials, 37.9% (n = 221) failed to attain the minimum accrual goals, with 70.8% (n = 14) of phase III trials resulting in poor accrual. A total of 16,474 patients (42.5% of accruals) accrued to those studies were unable to achieve the projected minimum accrual goal. Trials requiring less than 12 months of development were significantly more likely to achieve accrual goals (OR, 2.15; 95% confidence interval, 1.29-3.57, P = 0.003) than trials with the median development times of 12 to 18 months. Trials requiring a development time of greater than 24 months were significantly less likely to achieve accrual goals (OR, 0.40; 95% confidence interval, 0.20-0.78; P = 0.011) than trials with the median development time. A large percentage of oncology clinical trials do not achieve minimum projected accruals. Trial development time appears to be one important predictor of the likelihood of successfully achieving the minimum accrual goals. ©2010 AACR.

Effect of gonadotropin-releasing hormone II receptor (GnRHR-II) knockdown on testosterone secretion in the boar

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Unlike the classical gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH-I), the second mammalian GnRH isoform (GnRH-II; His5, Trp7, Tyr8) is a poor stimulator of gonadotropin secretion. In addition, GnRH-II is ubiquitously expressed, with transcript levels highest in tissues outside of the brain. A receptor speci...

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.

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

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

SPECTROSCOPIC ANALYSIS OF METAL-POOR STARS FROM LAMOST: EARLY RESULTS

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

Li, Hai-Ning; Zhao, Gang; Wang, Liang

2015-01-10

We report on early results from a pilot program searching for metal-poor stars with LAMOST and follow-up high-resolution observation acquired with the MIKE spectrograph attached to the Magellan II telescope. We performed detailed abundance analysis for eight objects with iron abundances [Fe/H] < -2.0, including five extremely metal-poor (EMP; [Fe/H] < -3.0) stars with two having [Fe/H] < -3.5. Among these objects, three are newly discovered EMP stars, one of which is confirmed for the first time with high-resolution spectral observations. Three program stars are regarded as carbon-enhanced metal-poor (CEMP) stars, including two stars with no enhancement in their neutron-capturemore » elements, which thus possibly belong to the class of CEMP-no stars; one of these objects also exhibits significant enhancement in nitrogen, and is thus a potential carbon and nitrogen-enhanced metal-poor star. The [X/Fe] ratios of the sample stars generally agree with those reported in the literature for other metal-poor stars in the same [Fe/H] range. We also compared the abundance patterns of individual program stars with the average abundance pattern of metal-poor stars and find only one chemically peculiar object with abundances of at least two elements (other than C and N) showing deviations larger than 0.5 dex. The distribution of [Sr/Ba] versus [Ba/H] agrees that an additional nucleosynthesis mechanism is needed aside from a single r-process. Two program stars with extremely low abundances of Sr and Ba support the prospect that both main and weak r-processes may have operated during the early phase of Galactic chemical evolution. The distribution of [C/N] shows that there are two groups of carbon-normal giants with different degrees of mixing. However, it is difficult to explain the observed behavior of the [C/N] of the nitrogen-enhanced unevolved stars based on current data.« less

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.

Dynamic 123I-BMIPP single-photon emission computed tomography in patients with congestive heart failure: effect of angiotensin II type-1 receptor blockade.

PubMed

Takeishi, Yasuchika; Minamihaba, Osamu; Yamauchi, Sou; Arimoto, Takanori; Hirono, Osamu; Takahashi, Hiroki; Akiyama, Hideyuki; Miyamoto, Takuya; Nitobe, Joji; Nozaki, Naoki; Tachibana, Hidetada; Okuyama, Masaki; Fukui, Akio; Kubota, Isao; Okada, Akio; Takahashi, Kazuei

2004-04-01

Heart failure is a major and growing public health problem with a high mortality rate. Although recent studies have demonstrated that a variety of metabolic and/or neurohumoral factors are involved in the progression of this syndrome, the precise mechanisms responsible for this complex condition are poorly understood. To examine 123I-beta-methyl-iodophenylpentadecanoic acid (BMIPP) kinetics in the early phase soon after tracer injection in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF), we performed dynamic single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). Twenty-six patients with CHF and eight control subjects were examined. The consecutive 15 images of 2-min dynamic SPECT were acquired for 30 min after injection. In the early phase after injection (0-4 min), a significant amount of radioactivity existed in the blood pool. After 6 min, the myocardial 123I-BMIPP image was clear and thus the washout rate of 123I-BMIPP from 6 to 30 min was calculated. The washout rate of 123I-BMIPP from the myocardium was faster in patients with CHF than in the controls (8 +/- 4 vs. -5 +/- 3%, p < 0.01). The washout rate of 123I-BMIPP demonstrated positive correlation with left ventricular (LV) end-diastolic volume index (R = 0.54, p < 0.02) and inverse correlation with LV ejection fraction (R = 0.53, p <0.02). Patients were given the angiotensin II type-1 receptor antagonist candesartan for 6 months, and dynamic SPECT was repeated. The enhanced washout rate of 123I-BMIPP in CHF was reduced after treatment with candesartan (p < 0.05). These data suggest that (1) enhanced washout of 123I-BMIPP was observed soon after injection in patients with CHF, (2) the activation of angiotensin II signaling pathway is involved as an intracellular mechanism for enhanced 123I-BMIPP washout in heart failure, and (3) improvement in fatty acid metabolism may represent a new mechanism for beneficial effects of angiotensin II receptor blockade on cardiac function and survival in patients with heart failure. 123I-BMIPP washout in the early phase obtained from dynamic SPECT may be a new marker for evaluating the severity of heart failure and the effects of medical treatment.

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

A phase 2 trial of high dose lenalidomide in patients with relapsed/refractory higher-risk myelodysplastic syndromes and acute myeloid leukaemia with trilineage dysplasia.

PubMed

Zeidan, Amer M; Smith, B Douglas; Carraway, Hetty E; Gojo, Ivana; DeZern, Amy; Gore, Steven D

2017-01-01

Limited therapies exist for patients with refractory and relapsed (RR) higher-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (HR-MDS) and acute myeloid leukaemia with trilineage dysplasia (AML-TD). High dose (HD) lenalidomide (50 mg) has activity as frontline therapy in elderly AML but there is limited data in the RR setting. This phase II trial included patients with RR HR-MDS or AML-TD at 2 doses of lenalidomide (15 or 50 mg) on days 1-28 of 42-day cycles. The primary endpoint was response rate using the 2006 International Working Group criteria. Overall survival (OS) was estimated by Kaplan-Meier methods. Of 27 patients enrolled, 59% had HR-MDS and 31% AML-TD. No patient had isolated del5q; 41% had poor-risk karyotype. Of 9 patients treated at 15 mg, 56% completed ≥2 cycles with no responses. Of 18 patients treated at 50 mg, 39% completed ≥2 cycles and 11% responded but all experienced grade 3/4 neutropenic fever/infection. The 60-day mortality rate was 30%. Median OS was 114 days with 19% surviving ≥1 year. The study was terminated due to lack of robust clinical activity. In conclusion, lenalidomide at 15 mg is ineffective in RR myeloid malignancies. Continous high dosing schedules are poorly tolerated and minimally active. Further evaluation should be considered in upfront intensive chemotherapy-ineligible patients. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Downregulation of HDAC9 inhibits cell proliferation and tumor formation by inducing cell cycle arrest in retinoblastoma

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

Zhang, Yiting; Wu, Dan; Xia, Fengjie

Histone deacetylase 9 (HDAC9) is a member of class II HDACs, which regulates a wide variety of normal and abnormal physiological functions. Recently, HDAC9 has been found to be overexpressed in some types of human cancers. However, the role of HDAC9 in retinoblastoma remains unclear. In this study, we found that HDAC9 was commonly expressed in retinoblastoma tissues and HDAC9 was overexpressed in prognostically poor retinoblastoma patients. Through knocking down HDAC9 in Y79 and WERI-Rb-1 cells, the expression level of HDAC9 was found to be positively related to cell proliferation in vitro. Further investigation indicated that knockdown HDAC9 could significantly induce cellmore » cycle arrest at G1 phase in retinoblastoma cells. Western blot assay showed downregulation of HDAC9 could significantly decrease cyclin E2 and CDK2 expression. Lastly, xenograft study in nude mice showed that downregulation of HDAC9 inhibited tumor growth and development in vivo. Therefore, our results suggest that HDAC9 could serve as a novel potential therapeutic target in the treatment of retinoblastoma. - Highlights: • High expression of HDAC9 correlates with poor patient prognosis. • Downregulation of HDAC9 inhibits cell proliferation in retinoblastoma cells. • Downregulation of HDAC9 induces cell cycle arrest at G1 phase in retinoblastoma cells. • Downregulation of HDAC9 suppresses tumor growth in nude mice.« less

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.

Eruption dynamics and explosive-effusive transitions during the 1400 cal BP eruption of Opala volcano, Kamchatka, Russia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Andrews, Benjamin J.; Dufek, Josef; Ponomareva, Vera

2018-05-01

Deposits and pumice from the 1400 cal BP eruption of Opala volcano record activity that occurred at the explosive-effusive transition, resulting in intermittent, or stop-start, behavior, where explosive activity resumed following a pause. The eruption deposited distinctive, biotite-bearing rhyolite tephra across much of Kamchatka, and its stratigraphy consists of a lithic-rich pumice fall, overlain by pumice falls and pyroclastic density deposits, with the proportion of the latter increasing with height. This sequence repeats such that the middle of the total deposit is marked by a lithic-rich fall with abundant obsidian clasts. Notably, the eruptive pumice are poorly vesiculated, with vesicle textures that record fragmentation of a partially collapsed magmatic foam. The eruption vent, Baranii Amphitheater is filled with obsidian lavas of the same composition as the rhyolite tephra. Based upon the stratigraphic and compositional relations, we divide the eruption into four phases. Phase I initiated with eruption of a lithic-rich pumice fall, followed by eruption of Plinian falls and pyroclastic density currents. During Phase II, the eruption paused for at least 5-6 h; in this time, microlites nucleated and began to grow in the magma. Phase III essentially repeated the Phase I sequence. Obsidian lavas were emplaced during Phase IV. The pumice textures suggest that the magma ascended very near the threshold decompression rate for the transition between explosive (fast) and effusive (slow) behavior. The pause during Phase II likely occurred as decompression slowed enough for the magma to develop sufficient permeability for gas to escape resulting in collapse of the magmatic foam, stopping the eruption and temporarily sealing the conduit. After about 5-6 h, eruption resumed with, once again, magma decompressing very near the explosive-effusive transition. Phase III ended when the decompression rate slowed and lava dome emplacement began. Distributions of pumice and lithic clasts, and inclusion of data from previous workers, indicate minimum deposit volumes of 0.75 and 0.75-1.15 km3 (DRE) and eruption column heights of 18 and 20 km for Phases I and III, respectively. Phases I-III had a likely total duration of 60-80 h, including a pause in activity of 5-6 h during Phase II. This study demonstrates that analysis of vesicle textures from numerous pumice combined with stratigraphic data can reveal syn-eruptive changes in and links between magma permeability, decompression rate, and eruption style. OP-22-Pum is a typical Opala pumice. XRCT scans reveal that vesicles in pumice without obvious banding in hand sample are highly elongate and strongly aligned in different regions. The first half of the animation shows vesicles (white) and the second half shows the solid portions of the pumice (yellow). The field of view is 930 × 930 × 520 μm. OP-22-PumGlass is a pumice with alternating glassy and pumiceous domains. XRCT scans show that the glassy regions contain only small, sparse vesicles, whereas the pumiceous regions comprise elongate, aligned, and interconnected vesicles. The white domains are vesicles. The field of view is 1300 × 1950 × 520 μm.

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…

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.

Influence of conformational changes on spin crossover properties and superstructure formation in 2D coordination polymers [Fe(hbtz)2(RCN)2](ClO4)2.

PubMed

Książek, Maria; Kusz, Joachim; Białońska, Agata; Bronisz, Robert; Weselski, Marek

2015-11-14

2D structurally related iron(ii) coordination networks {[Fe(hbtz)2(RCN)2](ClO4)2}∞ featuring, besides tetrazol-2-yl rings in the first coordination sphere, also axially coordinated propionitrile or allyl cyanide molecules (R = C3H5-, 1; R = C2H5-, 2) were synthesized. Thermally induced spin crossover (SCO) in 1 takes place in two poorly resolved stages (T(1)1/2(↓) = T(1)1/2(↑) = 198 K, T(2)1/2(↓) = 170 K, T(2)1/2(↑) = 171 K) whereas in 2 complete and relatively gradual one step SCO (T1/2(↓) = T1/2(↑) = 160 K) occurs. Diversification of the SCO properties of the complexes originates from the ability of coordinated allyl cyanide in 1 to undergo conformational alterations, which is not observed for propionitrile molecules in 2. SCO in 1 is accompanied by a non-monotonic change of the contribution of allyl cyanide conformers which is related to reconstruction of the network of intermolecular contacts established between polymeric layers. The coordination network 1 exhibits extraordinary elasticity and in the second stage SCO, accompanied by conformational changes of allyl cyanide, triggers a crystallographic phase transition which leads to the formation of a superstructure. What is important, the formation of the superstructure is not caused by long range ordering of HS and LS iron(ii) ions. The structural alteration is associated with corrugation of the polymeric skeleton and disappearance of nitrile disorder. Irradiation of a single crystal of 1 at 15 K with laser light (520 nm) allowed producing a novel low temperature HS phase of 1 in which, contrary to the high temperature HS phase, disordering of anion and allyl cyanide molecules is not observed and the corrugated nature of the polymeric layer, characteristic of the LS phase, is preserved.

Diagnostic accuracy of dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging using a phase-derived vascular input function in the preoperative grading of gliomas.

PubMed

Nguyen, T B; Cron, G O; Mercier, J F; Foottit, C; Torres, C H; Chakraborty, S; Woulfe, J; Jansen, G H; Caudrelier, J M; Sinclair, J; Hogan, M J; Thornhill, R E; Cameron, I G

2012-09-01

The accuracy of tumor plasma volume and K(trans) estimates obtained with DCE MR imaging may have inaccuracies introduced by a poor estimation of the VIF. In this study, we evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of a novel technique by using a phase-derived VIF and "bookend" T1 measurements in the preoperative grading of patients with suspected gliomas. This prospective study included 46 patients with a new pathologically confirmed diagnosis of glioma. Both magnitude and phase images were acquired during DCE MR imaging for estimates of K(trans)_φ and V(p_)φ (calculated from a phase-derived VIF and bookend T1 measurements) as well as K(trans)_SI and V(p_)SI (calculated from a magnitude-derived VIF without T1 measurements). Median K(trans)_φ values were 0.0041 minutes(-1) (95 CI, 0.00062-0.033), 0.031 minutes(-1) (0.011-0.150), and 0.088 minutes(-1) (0.069-0.110) for grade II, III, and IV gliomas, respectively (P ≤ .05 for each). Median V(p_)φ values were 0.64 mL/100 g (0.06-1.40), 0.98 mL/100 g (0.34-2.20), and 2.16 mL/100 g (1.8-3.1) with P = .15 between grade II and III gliomas and P = .015 between grade III and IV gliomas. In differentiating low-grade from high-grade gliomas, AUCs for K(trans)_φ, V(p_φ), K(trans)_SI, and V(p_)SI were 0.87 (0.73-1), 0.84 (0.69-0.98), 0.81 (0.59-1), and 0.84 (0.66-0.91). The differences between the AUCs were not statistically significant. K(trans)_φ and V(p_)φ are parameters that can help in differentiating low-grade from high-grade gliomas.

Eta Carinae and the Homunculus: An Astrophysical Laboratory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gull, Theodore R.

2006-01-01

High spatial resolution spectroscopy with HST/STIS between 1998.0 and 2004.2 has provided much exciting information about the central binary system and the physics of its N-rich, C,O-poor ejecta. Stellar He I profiles, noticeably blue-shifted relative to P Cygni H and Fe II line profiles, originate from the ionized wind region between two massive companions. Changes in profiles of He I singlet and triplet lines provide clues to the excitation mechanisms involved as the hot, UV companion moves in its highly eccentric orbit. For 90% of the 5.54-year period, the spectra of nearby Weigelt blobs and the Little Homunculus include highly excited emission lines of Ar, Ne, and Fe. During the few month-long spectroscopic minimum, these systems are deprived of Lyman continuum. Recombination, plus cooling, occurs. In the skirt region between the bipolar Homunculus, a neutral emission region, devoid of hydrogen emission, glows in Ti II, Fe I, Sr II, Sc II, etc. We find the ejecta to have Ti/Ni abundances nearly 100 times solar, not due to nuclear processing, but due to lack of oxygen. Many metals normally tied up in interstellar dust remain in gaseous phase. Much information is being obtained on the physical processes in these warm N-rich gases, whose excitation varies with time in a predictable pattern. Indeed recent GRB high dispersion spectra include signatures of circumGRB warm gases. This indicates that the early, primordial massive stars have warm massive ejecta reminiscent to that around Eta Carinae.

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.

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.

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

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...

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)...

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...

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.

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...

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

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

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.

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.

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.

A phase II clinical trial evaluating the use of two sequential, four-drug combination chemotherapy regimens in ambulatory bronchogenic adenocarcinoma patients.

PubMed

Broder, L E; Sridhar, K S; Selawry, O S; Charyulu, K N; Rao, R K; Saldana, M J; Lenz, C

1992-12-01

Forty-three ambulatory patients with locally advanced or metastatic bronchogenic adenocarcinoma were sequentially treated with two potentially mutually non-cross-resistant chemotherapy regimens. A new regimen, MVPF (mitomycin-c, vinblastine, procarbazine, and 5-fluorouracil), was given until progressive disease occurred. Then, a second regimen--MOCC (methotrexate, vincristine [Oncovin], cyclophosphamide, and CCNU)--was initiated. At further progression, regional disease patients received radiotherapy, whereas extensive disease patients received Phase II agents. Of the 43 patients entered on the study, 40 were evaluable. Three patients withdrew early due to poor tolerance of the regimen. The response rate for MVPF was 33% (12 of 40 PR, 1 of 40 CR) compared to a 4% (1 of 23 PR) response for MOCC (difference: p < or = .03), for a total response rate of 35%. Although there was an initial improvement in survival for responders (31.7 weeks) versus nonresponders (15.7 weeks) at the 75th percentile (p < or = .05), there was no significant difference in median survival. The hematologic toxicity was equivalent for both groups, whereas nonhematologic toxicity revealed a high incidence of nausea and vomiting in the MVPF group. It is concluded that this approach lent itself well to ambulatory care, and MVPF could be considered an alternative to cyclophosphamide-based regimens. However, the absence of a meaningful CR rate and lack of influence of response on median survival were factors limiting its effectiveness.

Hydrophobin-nanofibrillated cellulose stabilized emulsions for encapsulation and release of BCS class II drugs.

PubMed

Paukkonen, Heli; Ukkonen, Anni; Szilvay, Geza; Yliperttula, Marjo; Laaksonen, Timo

2017-03-30

The purpose of this study was to construct biopolymer-based oil-in-water emulsion formulations for encapsulation and release of poorly water soluble model compounds naproxen and ibuprofen. Class II hydrophobin protein HFBII from Trichoderma reesei was used as a surfactant to stabilize the oil/water interfaces of the emulsion droplets in the continuous aqueous phase. Nanofibrillated cellulose (NFC) was used as a viscosity modifier to further stabilize the emulsions and encapsulate protein coated oil droplets in NFC fiber network. The potential of both native and oxidized NFC were studied for this purpose. Various emulsion formulations were prepared and the abilities of different formulations to control the drug release rate of naproxen and ibuprofen, used as model compounds, were evaluated. The optimal formulation for sustained drug release consisted of 0.01% of drug, 0.1% HFBII, 0.15% oxidized NFC, 10% soybean oil and 90% water phase. By comparison, the use of native NFC in combination with HFBII resulted in an immediate drug release for both of the compounds. The results indicate that these NFC originated biopolymers are suitable for pharmaceutical emulsion formulations. The native and oxidized NFC grades can be used as emulsion stabilizers in sustained and immediate drug release applications. Furthermore, stabilization of the emulsions was achieved with low concentrations of both HFBII and NFC, which may be an advantage when compared to surfactant concentrations of conventional excipients traditionally used in pharmaceutical emulsion formulations. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

APR3 modulates oxidative stress and mitochondrial function in ARPE-19 cells.

PubMed

Li, Yuan; Zou, Xuan; Gao, Jing; Cao, Ke; Feng, Zhihui; Liu, Jiankang

2018-05-24

Impairment of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells is considered a key contributor to the development of age-related macular degeneration. Apoptosis-related protein 3 (APR3) was recently discovered after treatment with all- trans retinoic acid, a pivotal molecule in RPE cells. However, the function of APR3 remains poorly understood. In the present study, we found that APR3 could interact with nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2, which is a regulator of phase II enzymes, and that knockdown of APR3 promoted nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 nuclear translocation and activated expression of phase II enzymes, which was accompanied by improved redox status and mitochondrial activity. Overexpression of APR3 revealed its mitochondrial localization and induced a robust production of reactive oxygen species that was accompanied by impaired mitochondrial oxygen consumption, complex activity, and lower ATP content, resulting in significant changes in mitochondrial structure, which may contribute to cell apoptosis. High doses of all- trans retinoic acid treatment were found to significantly induce APR3 expression, increase reactive oxygen species levels, and decrease ATP content, which were abolished by knockdown of APR3. These results indicate that APR3 plays a vital role in regulating redox status and mitochondrial activity and thus suggest APR3 might be a potential novel target for study of treatment of age-related macular degeneration.-Li, Y., Zou, X., Gao, J., Cao, K., Feng, Z., Liu, J. APR3 modulates oxidative stress and mitochondrial function in ARPE-19 cells.

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.

Trace Element Geochemistry of Magnetite and Accesory Phases from El Romeral Iron Oxide-Apatite Deposit, Northern Chile

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barra, F.; Rojas, P.; Reich, M.; Deditius, A.; Simon, A. C.

2017-12-01

Iron oxide-apatite (IOA) or "Kiruna-type" deposits are an important source of Fe, P, REE, among other essential elements for society. Three main hypotheses have been proposed to explain the genesis of these controversial deposits, which invoke liquid immiscibility, hydrothermal replacement or a magmatic-hydrothermal origin driven by flotation of magnetite-bubble pairs. Here we focus on the El Romeral, one of the largest IOA deposits located in the southernmost part of the Cretaceous Chilean Iron Belt. We combined SEM observations and EMPA analyses of magnetite, actinolite, pyrite, and apatite, with micro-Raman determinations of mineral inclusions within magnetite grains. Two textural types of magnetite were identified at El Romeral: (i) inclusion-rich magnetite (Mag I), and (ii) inclusion-poor magnetite (Mag II) that are commonly surrounding the inclusion-rich Mag I grains. Mag I is characterized by high V ( 2500-2800 ppm) and Ti (300-1000 ppm) contents with high-temperature mineral inclusions such as ilmenite, Ti-pargasite and clinochlore at depth, and quartz and phlogopite inclusions in shallower samples. These characteristics are consistent with a magmatic origin for Mag I. Inclusion-poor magnetite (Mag II) have high V (2400-2600 ppm) and lower Ti (70-200 ppm) contents than Mag I, which point to chemical changes of the mineralizing fluid(s). An increase in thermal gradient with depth is evidenced by the presence of high-temperature (low #Fe) actinolite, as well as F-rich apatite and pyrite with high Co:Ni (>1) in the deep zones. In contrast, lower Co:Ni ratios (<0.5) in pyrite and higher Cl contents in OH-rich apatite are detected in samples from shallower levels. This vertical chemical variation supports a magmatic-hydrothermal origin for the El Romeral deposit, and point to compositional changes driven by decompression of a magnetite-fluid suspension.

Methods to Develop the Eye-tem Bank to Measure Ophthalmic Quality of Life.

PubMed

Khadka, Jyoti; Fenwick, Eva; Lamoureux, Ecosse; Pesudovs, Konrad

2016-12-01

There is an increasing demand for high-standard, comprehensive, and reliable patient-reported outcome (PRO) instruments in all the disciplines of health care including in ophthalmology and optometry. Over the past two decades, a plethora of PRO instruments have been developed to assess the impact of eye diseases and their treatments. Despite this large number of instruments, significant shortcomings exist for the measurement of ophthalmic quality of life (QoL). Most PRO instruments are short-form instruments designed for clinical use, but this limits their content coverage often poorly targeting any study population other than that which they were developed for. Also, existing instruments are static paper and pencil based and unable to be updated easily leading to outdated and irrelevant item content. Scores obtained from different PRO instruments may not be directly comparable. These shortcomings can be addressed using item banking implemented with computer-adaptive testing (CAT). Therefore, we designed a multicenter project (The Eye-tem Bank project) to develop and validate such PROs to enable comprehensive measurement of ophthalmic QoL in eye diseases. Development of the Eye-tem Bank follows four phases: Phase I, Content Development; Phase II, Pilot Testing and Item Calibration; Phase III, Validation; and Phase IV, Evaluation. This project will deliver technologically advanced comprehensive QoL PROs in the form of item banking implemented via a CAT system in eye diseases. Here, we present a detailed methodological framework of this project.

Hydrogen uptake causes molecular "avalanches" in palladium | Argonne

Science.gov Websites

experimental and calculated strain distributions in the hydrogen-poor phase. The strains are consistent with a trapped hydrogen-rich surface layer. Middle: Comparison between experimental and calculated strain transformation. Comparison between experimental and calculated strain distributions in the hydrogen-poor phase

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.

An AeroCom assessment of black carbon in Arctic snow and sea ice

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

Jiao, C.; Flanner, M. G.; Balkanski, Y.

2014-01-01

Though many global aerosols models prognose surface deposition, only a few models have been used to directly simulate the radiative effect from black carbon (BC) deposition to snow and sea ice. In this paper, we apply aerosol deposition fields from 25 models contributing to two phases of the Aerosol Comparisons between Observations and Models (AeroCom) project to simulate and evaluate within-snow BC concentrations and radiative effect in the Arctic. We accomplish this by driving the offline land and sea ice components of the Community Earth System Model with different deposition fields and meteorological conditions from 2004 to 2009, during whichmore » an extensive field campaign of BC measurements in Arctic snow occurred. We find that models generally underestimate BC concentrations in snow in northern Russia and Norway, while overestimating BC amounts elsewhere in the Arctic. Although simulated BC distributions in snow are poorly correlated with measurements, mean values are reasonable. The multi-model mean (range) bias in BC concentrations, sampled over the same grid cells, snow depths, and months of measurements, are -4.4 (-13.2 to +10.7) ng g -1 for an earlier phase of AeroCom models (phase I), and +4.1 (-13.0 to +21.4) ng g -1 for a more recent phase of AeroCom models (phase II), compared to the observational mean of 19.2 ng g -1. Factors determining model BC concentrations in Arctic snow include Arctic BC emissions, transport of extra-Arctic aerosols, precipitation, deposition efficiency of aerosols within the Arctic, and meltwater removal of particles in snow. Sensitivity studies show that the model–measurement evaluation is only weakly affected by meltwater scavenging efficiency because most measurements were conducted in non-melting snow. The Arctic (60–90° N) atmospheric residence time for BC in phase II models ranges from 3.7 to 23.2 days, implying large inter-model variation in local BC deposition efficiency. Combined with the fact that most Arctic BC deposition originates from extra-Arctic emissions, these results suggest that aerosol removal processes are a leading source of variation in model performance. The multi-model mean (full range) of Arctic radiative effect from BC in snow is 0.15 (0.07–0.25) W m -2 and 0.18 (0.06–0.28) W m -2 in phase I and phase II models, respectively. After correcting for model biases relative to observed BC concentrations in different regions of the Arctic, we obtain a multi-model mean Arctic radiative effect of 0.17 W m -2 for the combined AeroCom ensembles. Finally, there is a high correlation between modeled BC concentrations sampled over the observational sites and the Arctic as a whole, indicating that the field campaign provided a reasonable sample of the Arctic.« less

The role of multimodal treatment in patients with advanced lung neuroendocrine tumors

PubMed Central

Ungaro, Antonio; Spada, Francesca; Cella, Chiara Alessandra; Pisa, Eleonora; Barberis, Massimo; Grana, Chiara; Zerini, Dario; Bertani, Emilio; Ribero, Dario; Funicelli, Luigi; Bonomo, Guido; Ravizza, Davide; Guarize, Juliana; De Marinis, Filippo; Petrella, Francesco; Del Signore, Ester; Pelosi, Giuseppe; Spaggiari, Lorenzo

2017-01-01

Lung neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) comprise typical (TC) and atypical carcinoids (AC). They represent the well differentiated (WD) or low/intermediate grade forms of lung neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs). Unlike the lung poorly differentiated NENs, that are usually treated with chemotherapy, lung NETs can be managed with several different therapies, making a multidisciplinary interaction a key point. We critically discussed the multimodal clinical management of patients with advanced lung NETs. Provided that no therapeutic algorithm has been validate so far, each clinical case should be discussed within a NEN-dedicated multidisciplinary team. Among the systemic therapies available for metastatic lung NETs everolimus is the only approved drug, on the basis of the results of the phase III RADIANT-4 trial. Another phase III trial, the SPINET, is ongoing comparing lanreotide with placebo. Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy and chemotherapy were not studied within phase III trials for lung NETs, and they have been reported to be active within retrospective or phase II prospective studies. Temozolomide and oxaliplatin are two interesting chemotherapeutic agents in lung NETs. While some European Institutions were certificated as Centers of Excellence for gastroenteropancreatic NENs by the European Neuroendocrine Tumor Society (ENETS), an equivalent ENETS certification for lung NENs does not exist yet. Ideally a lung NEN-dedicated multidisciplinary tumor board should include NEN-dedicated medical oncologists, thoracic medical oncologist, thoracic surgeons, pathologists, interventional radiologists, endocrinologists, radiotherapists, interventional pneumologists, nuclear physician. PMID:29201453

The luminous, massive and solar metallicity galaxy hosting the Swift γ-ray burst GRB 160804A at z = 0.737

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heintz, K. E.; Malesani, D.; Wiersema, K.; Jakobsson, P.; Fynbo, J. P. U.; Savaglio, S.; Cano, Z.; Covino, S.; D'Elia, V.; Gomboc, A.; Hammer, F.; Kaper, L.; Milvang-Jensen, B.; Møller, P.; Piranomonte, S.; Selsing, J.; Rhodin, N. H. P.; Tanvir, N. R.; Thöne, C. C.; de Ugarte Postigo, A.; Vergani, S. D.; Watson, D.

2018-02-01

We here present the spectroscopic follow-up observations with VLT/X-shooter of the Swift long-duration gamma-ray burst GRB 160804A at z = 0.737. Typically, GRBs are found in low-mass, metal-poor galaxies that constitute the sub-luminous population of star-forming galaxies. For the host galaxy of the GRB presented here, we derive a stellar mass of log (M*/ M⊙) = 9.80 ± 0.07, a roughly solar metallicity (12 + log (O/H) = 8.74 ± 0.12) based on emission line diagnostics, and an infrared luminosity of M3.6/(1 + z) = -21.94 mag, but find it to be dust-poor (E(B - V) < 0.05 mag). This establishes the galaxy hosting GRB 160804A as one of the most luminous, massive and metal-rich GRB hosts at z < 1.5. Furthermore, the gas-phase metallicity is found to be representative of the physical conditions of the gas close to the explosion site of the burst. The high metallicity of the host galaxy is also observed in absorption, where we detect several strong Fe II transitions as well as Mg II and Mg I. Although host galaxy absorption features are common in GRB afterglow spectra, we detect absorption from strong metal lines directly in the host continuum (at a time when the afterglow was contributing to < 15 per cent). Finally, we discuss the possibility that the geometry and state of the absorbing and emitting gas are indicative of a galactic scale outflow expelled at the final stage of two merging galaxies.

Microbial Community Phylogenetic and Functional Succession in Chromium-Reducing Aquifer-Derived Microcosms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brodie, E. L.; Beller, H. R.; Goldfarb, K. C.; Han, R.; Santee, C. A.

2009-12-01

In situ reductive immobilization, whereby highly soluble Cr(VI) species are reduced to poorly soluble Cr(III) species, is a favored approach for remediating Cr-contaminated groundwater. How microbial populations respond phylogenetically and functionally to the injection of an organic electron donor to stimulate Cr(VI) reduction is unclear, as are the relative contributions of direct enzymatic Cr(VI) reduction versus indirect (e.g. sulfide-mediated) reduction. In this study, we inoculated anaerobic microcosms with groundwater from the Cr-contaminated Hanford 100H site (WA) and supplemented them with lactate and the electron acceptors nitrate, sulfate, and amorphous ferric oxyhydroxide. The microcosms progressed successively through nitrate-reducing, sulfate-reducing, and Fe(III)-reducing conditions, and after a second nitrate amendment, nitrate-dependent Fe(II)-oxidizing conditions. Cr(VI) reduction occurred during both the denitrification and the sulfate/iron reduction phases. DNA and RNA were harvested during each major biogeochemical phase and were subjected to PhyloChip analysis, qPCR, and transcript sequencing. Bacterial community succession followed a trajectory related to the sequential use of electron acceptors. During denitrification, bacterial communities were enriched in known denitrifiers within the Beta- and Gamma-proteobacteria and became phylogenetically clustered. Fermenters became enriched following nitrate reduction, preceding both iron and sulfate reduction. Iron reduction was stoichiometrically related to the formation of hydrogen sulfide and, although iron reducers were detected during this phase, their iron-reducing activity was not confirmed. Following the depletion of lactate and sulfate, iron reduction rates decreased and acetate and propionate concentrations stabilized, indicating a marginal contribution of acetate-coupled iron reduction. Rapid Fe(II) oxidation occurred following the nitrate amendment with a concomitant reduction of nitrate to nitrite and an increased abundance of Beta-proteobacterial species related to known anaerobic Fe(II)-oxidizing bacteria. To uncover the microbial mechanisms contributing to the biogeochemical complexity encountered, even under controlled laboratory incubations, requires alternatives to standard phylogenetic analyses. Our ongoing efforts in analyzing the community transcriptomes (mRNA) should provide valuable insight into the relative rates of direct versus indirect mechanisms of Cr(VI) immobilization in contaminated aquifers.

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...

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 ...

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...

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...

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...

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

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…

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.

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.

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.

Lithium Carbonate in Treating Patients With Acute Intestinal Graft-Versus-Host-Disease (GVHD) After Donor Stem Cell Transplant

ClinicalTrials.gov

2017-01-24

Accelerated Phase Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia; Adult Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in Remission; Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia in Remission; Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia With 11q23 (MLL) Abnormalities; Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia With Inv(16)(p13;q22); Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia With t(15;17)(q22;q12); Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia With t(16;16)(p13;q22); Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia With t(8;21)(q22;q22); Atypical Chronic Myeloid Leukemia, Breakpoint Cluster Region-abl Translocation (BCR-ABL) Negative; Blastic Phase Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia; Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in Remission; Childhood Acute Myeloid Leukemia in Remission; Childhood Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia; Childhood Myelodysplastic Syndromes; Chronic Eosinophilic Leukemia; Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia; Chronic Neutrophilic Leukemia; Chronic Phase Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia; de Novo Myelodysplastic Syndromes; Disseminated Neuroblastoma; Extranodal Marginal Zone B-cell Lymphoma of Mucosa-associated Lymphoid Tissue; Gastrointestinal Complications; Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia; Myelodysplastic/Myeloproliferative Neoplasm, Unclassifiable; Nodal Marginal Zone B-cell Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Adult Burkitt Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Adult Diffuse Large Cell Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Adult Diffuse Mixed Cell Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Adult Diffuse Small Cleaved Cell Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Adult Immunoblastic Large Cell Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Adult Lymphoblastic Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Grade 1 Follicular Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Grade 2 Follicular Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Grade 3 Follicular Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Mantle Cell Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Marginal Zone Lymphoma; Noncontiguous Stage II Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma; Poor Prognosis Metastatic Gestational Trophoblastic Tumor; Previously Treated Childhood Rhabdomyosarcoma; Primary Myelofibrosis; Recurrent Adult Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia; Recurrent Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia; Recurrent Adult Burkitt Lymphoma; Recurrent Adult Diffuse Large Cell Lymphoma; Recurrent Adult Diffuse Mixed Cell Lymphoma; Recurrent Adult Diffuse Small Cleaved Cell Lymphoma; Recurrent Adult Hodgkin Lymphoma; Recurrent Adult Immunoblastic Large Cell Lymphoma; Recurrent Adult Lymphoblastic Lymphoma; Recurrent Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia; Recurrent Childhood Acute Myeloid Leukemia; Recurrent Childhood Large Cell Lymphoma; Recurrent Childhood Lymphoblastic Lymphoma; Recurrent Childhood Rhabdomyosarcoma; Recurrent Childhood Small Noncleaved Cell Lymphoma; Recurrent Cutaneous T-cell Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma; Recurrent Grade 1 Follicular Lymphoma; Recurrent Grade 2 Follicular Lymphoma; Recurrent Grade 3 Follicular Lymphoma; Recurrent Malignant Testicular Germ Cell Tumor; Recurrent Mantle Cell Lymphoma; Recurrent Marginal Zone Lymphoma; Recurrent Mycosis Fungoides/Sezary Syndrome; Recurrent Neuroblastoma; Recurrent Ovarian Epithelial Cancer; Recurrent Ovarian Germ Cell Tumor; Recurrent Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma; Recurrent Wilms Tumor and Other Childhood Kidney Tumors; Recurrent/Refractory Childhood Hodgkin Lymphoma; Refractory Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia; Refractory Hairy Cell Leukemia; Relapsing Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia; Secondary Acute Myeloid Leukemia; Secondary Myelodysplastic Syndromes; Splenic Marginal Zone Lymphoma; Stage I Multiple Myeloma; Stage II Multiple Myeloma; Stage II Ovarian Epithelial Cancer; Stage III Adult Burkitt Lymphoma; Stage III Adult Diffuse Large Cell Lymphoma; Stage III Adult Diffuse Mixed Cell Lymphoma; Stage III Adult Diffuse Small Cleaved Cell Lymphoma; Stage III Adult Hodgkin Lymphoma; Stage III Adult Immunoblastic Large Cell Lymphoma; Stage III Adult Lymphoblastic Lymphoma; Stage III Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia; Stage III Grade 1 Follicular Lymphoma; Stage III Grade 2 Follicular Lymphoma; Stage III Grade 3 Follicular Lymphoma; Stage III Malignant Testicular Germ Cell Tumor; Stage III Mantle Cell Lymphoma; Stage III Marginal Zone Lymphoma; Stage III Multiple Myeloma; Stage III Ovarian Epithelial Cancer; Stage III Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma; Stage IIIA Breast Cancer; Stage IIIB Breast Cancer; Stage IIIC Breast Cancer; Stage IV Adult Burkitt Lymphoma; Stage IV Adult Diffuse Large Cell Lymphoma; Stage IV Adult Diffuse Mixed Cell Lymphoma; Stage IV Adult Diffuse Small Cleaved Cell Lymphoma; Stage IV Adult Hodgkin Lymphoma; Stage IV Adult Immunoblastic Large Cell Lymphoma; Stage IV Adult Lymphoblastic Lymphoma; Stage IV Breast Cancer; Stage IV Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia; Stage IV Grade 1 Follicular Lymphoma; Stage IV Grade 2 Follicular Lymphoma; Stage IV Grade 3 Follicular Lymphoma; Stage IV Mantle Cell Lymphoma; Stage IV Marginal Zone Lymphoma; Stage IV Ovarian Epithelial Cancer; Stage IV Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma

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

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

Inotuzumab ozogamicin in the management of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.

PubMed

Morley, N J; Marks, D I

2016-01-01

Whilst most adult patients with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia will go into remission with standard induction chemotherapy, many will relapse. Response rates to standard salvage chemotherapy regimens are low and the outlook on relapse is very poor and associated with significant morbidity and mortality hence the need for newer targeted approaches. Inotuzumab ozogamicin (previously known as CMC-544) is an antibody-drug conjugate and consists of a monoclonal anti-CD22 antibody bound to calicheamicin. The target, CD22, is widely expressed on acute lymphoblastic leukaemia cells making it a potential therapeutic target. The calicheamicin is delivered intracellularly and causes leukaemia cell apoptosis. Overall response rates of 57% were observed in a Phase II study and the final results of a Phase III randomised controlled trial comparing this drug to the investigator choice 'standard of care' chemotherapy are eagerly awaited. Whilst initial results are promising, there have been concerns regarding liver toxicity and the incidence of veno-occlusive disease of the liver especially in patients who have previously received or go on to allogeneic stem cell transplant.

Mineralogical, Spectral, and Compositional Changes During Heating of Hydrous Carbonaceous Chondrites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nakamura, T.; Matsuoka, M.; Yamashita, S.; Sato, Y.; Mogi, K.; Enokido, Y.; Nakata, A.; Okumura, S.; Furukawa, Y.; Zolensky, M.

2017-01-01

Hydrous carbonaceous chondrites experienced hydration and subsequent dehydration by heating, which resulted in a variety of mineralogical and spectral features [e. g., 1-6]. The degree of heating is classified according to heating stage (HS) II to IV based on mineralogy of phyllosilicates [2], because they change, with elevating temperature, to poorly crystal-line phases and subsequently to aggregates of small secondary anhydrous silicates of mainly olivine. Heating of hydrous carbonaceous chondrites also causes spectral changes and volatile loss [3-6]. Experimental heating of Murchison CM chondrite showed flattening of whole visible-near infrared spectra, especially weakening of the 3µm band strength [1, 4, 7]. In order to understand mineralogical, spectral, and compositional changes during heating of hydrous carbonaceous chondrites, we have carried out systematic investigation of mineralogy, reflectance spectra, and volatile composition of hydrated and dehydrated carbonaceous chondrites as well as experimentally-heated hydrous carbonaceous chondrites. In addition, we investigated reflectance spectra of tochilinite that is a major phase of CM chondrites and has a low dehydration temperature (250degC).

Powerful Radio Galaxies with Simbol-X: the Nuclear Environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Torresi, E.; Grandi, P.; Malaguti, G.; Palumbo, G. G. C.; Bianchin, V.

2009-05-01

Fanaroff & Riley type II radio galaxies (FRII) are complex objects. In particular FRII Narrow Line Radio Galaxies (NLRG), optically classified as High Excitation Galaxies (HEG) show X-ray spectra very similar to their radio-quiet counterparts, the Seyfert 2 galaxies. They show 2-10 keV continua heavily obscured (NH~1023-24 cm-2) and intense FeKα lines, typical cold matter reprocessing features. Moreover recent Chandra and XMM-Newton observations suggest that the soft X-ray emission of HEG and Seyfert 2 have a common origin from photoionized gas, reinforcing the idea that not only their nuclear engine but also the circumnuclear gas (at least the warm phase) are similar. On the contrary, our knowledge of NLRG HEG above 10 keV is very poor when compared to brighter Seyfert 2. As a consequence, the physical properties of the cold phase of the circumnuclear gas (possibly linked to a dusty torus) are largely unknown. Thanks to its high sensitivity up to 80 keV, Simbol-X will provide very accurate spectra and will allow a direct comparison between the NLRG and Seyfert 2 cold environments.

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).

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.

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…

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...

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...

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.

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.

Molecules and Dust in the Humunculus: Ejecta of Eta Carinae

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gull, T.

2007-01-01

In the 18401s, Eta Carinae ejected massive amounts of nitrogen-rich, carbon- and oxygen-poor material which we see as the hourglass-shaped Homunculus. With the Hubble Space Telescope Imaging Spectrograph, we detected multiple shells in line of sight, the most massive and intriguing being at -513 km/s. Numerous lines of Fe I, Fe II, Ni II, Cr II, Sc II, Sr II, Ti II, V II, etc are identified as well as nearly a thousand H2 lines. The metals have energy level populations consistent with 760K and excited by photons < 8.5eV. We have now identified CH, CH+, OH, and NH at the same velocity, but at 60K, suggesting stratification in the outer ejecta. Analysis of the interior, photoionized emission hourglass structure, known as the Little Homunculus, indicates He, N overabundances and C, 0 underabundances (approximately 1/80 solar). A skirt of neutral and partially ionized gas lies between the lobes of the hourglasses. A portion is seen as the Strontium Filament, a metal- ionized, neutral hydrogen structure. Relative abundances of TiNi are 1/80 solar, CrNi are 1/20 solar. This complex of ejecta appears to have been ejected by a massive star(s) at the end of the hydrogen-burning phase when convection led to overproduction of nitrogen at the expense of carbon and oxygen. Given the underabundances of carbon and oxygen, the chemistry of this system is quite different to the normal ISM, leading to a nitrogen- dominated chemistry. What little C and 0 that is formed is immediately taken up by SiO and Al0 molecules leading to a very different gas/dust ratio than the normal ISM. Dust in this ejecta is abundance, but known to be very grey in character. Observations with HST/STIS and VLT/UVES will be presented along with simple physical models and CLOUD modeling. Insight by the participants will be solicited.

Dental and skeletal changes in patients with mandibular retrognathism following treatment with Herbst and pre-adjusted fixed appliance

PubMed Central

Vigorito, Fabio de Abreu; Dominguez, Gladys Cristina; Aidar, Luís Antônio de Arruda

2014-01-01

Objective To assess the dentoskeletal changes observed in treatment of Class II, division 1 malocclusion patients with mandibular retrognathism. Treatment was performed with the Herbst orthopedic appliance during 13 months (phase I) and pre-adjusted orthodontic fixed appliance (phase II). Methods Lateral cephalograms of 17 adolescents were taken in phase I onset (T1) and completion (T2); in the first thirteen months of phase II (T3) and in phase II completion (T4). Differences among the cephalometric variables were statistically analyzed (Bonferroni variance and multiple comparisons). Results From T1 to T4, 42% of overall maxillary growth was observed between T1 and T2 (P < 0.01), 40.3% between T2 and T3 (P < 0.05) and 17.7% between T3 and T4 (n.s.). As for overall mandibular movement, 48.2% was observed between T1 and T2 (P < 0.001) and 51.8% between T2 and T4 (P < 0.01) of which 15.1% was observed between T2 and T3 (n.s.) and 36.7% between T3 and T4 (P < 0.01). Class II molar relationship and overjet were properly corrected. The occlusal plane which rotated clockwise between T1 and T2, returned to its initial position between T2 and T3 remaining stable until T4. The mandibular plane inclination did not change at any time during treatment. Conclusion Mandibular growth was significantly greater in comparison to maxillary, allowing sagittal maxillomandibular adjustment. The dentoalveolar changes (upper molar) that overcorrected the malocclusion in phase I, partially recurred in phase II, but did not hinder correction of the malocclusion. Facial type was preserved. PMID:24713559

Preconcentration of trace lead and iron on activated carbon functionalized by o-Anisic acid derivatives prior to their determination in environmental samples.

PubMed

Tian, Hua; Hu, Zheng; He, Qun; Liu, Xueliang; Zhang, Li; Chang, Xijun

2012-07-01

Two solid-phase adsorbents (phase I and phase II) were synthesized successfully that o-Anisic acid derivatives were evenly functionalized on the surface of activated carbon. It was certified that the two adsorbents were applied to preconcentrate and separate trace levels of Pb(II) and Fe(III) from natural liquid samples with satisfactory results. It can be found that the adsorption capacity of the ions adsorbed on phase I and phase II was 48.3 and 85.7 mg g(-1) for Pb(II), 39.5 and 72.5 mg g(-1) for Fe(III), respectively. The detection limit (3σ) of the method separated on phase I and phase II was 0.12 and 0.09 ng mL(-1) for Pb(II), 0.23 and 0.17 ng mL(-1) for Fe(III), respectively. The relative standard deviation (R.S.D.) of the method was lower than 3.0%. The adsorption and desorption property of two kinds of adsorbents was comparatively studied, respectively. The adsorption selectivity of heavy metal ions at certain pH, the adsorption kinetics, the condition of complete elution, the effect of coexisting ions, the adsorption capacity and adsorption isotherm modes were examined. Based on the experimental datum determined by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), it was certified that the adsorption on the surface of adsorbents was in strict accordance with the monolayer adsorption principle. The structural features of series of multidentate ligand modified on adsorption matrix had been obtained. These conclusions can provide reference for synthesizing an efficient adsorbent which is specific to remove a particular kind of contaminant. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Research safety vehicle program (Phase II) specification review. Volume II. Final technical report, Jul 1975--Nov 1976

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

Pugliese, S.M.

1977-02-01

In Phase I of the Research Safety Vehicle Program (RSV), preliminary design and performance specifications were developed for a mid-1980's vehicle that integrates crashworthiness and occupant safety features with material resource conservation, economy, and producibility. Phase II of the program focused on development of the total vehicle design via systems engineering and integration analyses. As part of this effort, it was necessary to continuously review the Phase I recommended performance specification in relation to ongoing design/test activities. This document contains the results of analyses of the Phase I specifications. The RSV is expected to satisfy all of the producibility andmore » safety related specifications, i.e., handling and stability systems, crashworthiness, occupant protection, pedestrian/cyclist protection, etc.« less

Validation of the phase II feasibility study in a palliative care setting: gastrografin in malignant bowel obstruction.

PubMed

Lee, Cindy; Vather, Ryash; O'Callaghan, Anne; Robinson, Jackie; McLeod, Briar; Findlay, Michael; Bissett, Ian

2013-12-01

Malignant bowel obstruction (MBO) is common in patients with advanced cancer. To perform a phase II study to assess the feasibility of conducting a phase III trial investigating the therapeutic value of gastrografin in MBO. Randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled feasibility study. Participants received 100 mL of either gastrografin or placebo. Over 8 months, 57 patients were screened and 9 enrolled (15.8% recruitment rate). Of the 9 enrolled, 4 received gastrografin (with 2 completing assessment) and 5 received placebo (with 4 completing assessment). It is not feasible to conduct a phase III trial using the same study protocol. This study validates the use of the phase II feasibility study to assess protocol viability in a palliative population prior to embarking on a larger trial.

Chronic Iron Limitation Confers Transient Resistance to Oxidative Stress in Marine Diatoms.

PubMed

Graff van Creveld, Shiri; Rosenwasser, Shilo; Levin, Yishai; Vardi, Assaf

2016-10-01

Diatoms are single-celled, photosynthetic, bloom-forming algae that are responsible for at least 20% of global primary production. Nevertheless, more than 30% of the oceans are considered "ocean deserts" due to iron limitation. We used the diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum as a model system to explore diatom's response to iron limitation and its interplay with susceptibility to oxidative stress. By analyzing physiological parameters and proteome profiling, we defined two distinct phases: short-term (<3 d, phase I) and chronic (>5 d, phase II) iron limitation. While at phase I no significant changes in physiological parameters were observed, molecular markers for iron starvation, such as Iron Starvation Induced Protein and flavodoxin, were highly up-regulated. At phase II, down-regulation of numerous iron-containing proteins was detected in parallel to reduction in growth rate, chlorophyll content, photosynthetic activity, respiration rate, and antioxidant capacity. Intriguingly, while application of oxidative stress to phase I and II iron-limited cells similarly oxidized the reduced glutathione (GSH) pool, phase II iron limitation exhibited transient resistance to oxidative stress, despite the down regulation of many antioxidant proteins. By comparing proteomic profiles of P. tricornutum under iron limitation and metatranscriptomic data of an iron enrichment experiment conducted in the Pacific Ocean, we propose that iron-limited cells in the natural environment resemble the phase II metabolic state. These results provide insights into the trade-off between optimal growth rate and susceptibility to oxidative stress in the response of diatoms to iron quota in the marine environment. © 2016 American Society of Plant Biologists. All Rights Reserved.

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.

Chronic Iron Limitation Confers Transient Resistance to Oxidative Stress in Marine Diatoms1

PubMed Central

Graff van Creveld, Shiri; Rosenwasser, Shilo; Vardi, Assaf

2016-01-01

Diatoms are single-celled, photosynthetic, bloom-forming algae that are responsible for at least 20% of global primary production. Nevertheless, more than 30% of the oceans are considered “ocean deserts” due to iron limitation. We used the diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum as a model system to explore diatom’s response to iron limitation and its interplay with susceptibility to oxidative stress. By analyzing physiological parameters and proteome profiling, we defined two distinct phases: short-term (<3 d, phase I) and chronic (>5 d, phase II) iron limitation. While at phase I no significant changes in physiological parameters were observed, molecular markers for iron starvation, such as Iron Starvation Induced Protein and flavodoxin, were highly up-regulated. At phase II, down-regulation of numerous iron-containing proteins was detected in parallel to reduction in growth rate, chlorophyll content, photosynthetic activity, respiration rate, and antioxidant capacity. Intriguingly, while application of oxidative stress to phase I and II iron-limited cells similarly oxidized the reduced glutathione (GSH) pool, phase II iron limitation exhibited transient resistance to oxidative stress, despite the down regulation of many antioxidant proteins. By comparing proteomic profiles of P. tricornutum under iron limitation and metatranscriptomic data of an iron enrichment experiment conducted in the Pacific Ocean, we propose that iron-limited cells in the natural environment resemble the phase II metabolic state. These results provide insights into the trade-off between optimal growth rate and susceptibility to oxidative stress in the response of diatoms to iron quota in the marine environment. PMID:27503604

SH-2F LAMPS Instructional Systems Development: Phase II. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gibbons, Andrew S.; Hymes, Jonah P.

This project was one of four aircrew training development projects in a continuing study of the methodology, effectiveness, and resource requirements of the Instructional Systems Development (ISD) process. This report covers the Phase II activities of a two-phase project for the development of aircrew training for SH-2F anti-submarine warfare…

40 CFR 63.163 - Standards: Pumps in light liquid service.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... later than 1 year after the compliance date; and (C) Phase III, beginning no later than 21/2 years after... requirements; and (B) Beginning no later than 1 year after initial start-up, comply with the Phase III... parts per million or greater. (ii) For Phase II, an instrument reading of 5,000 parts per million or...

40 CFR 63.163 - Standards: Pumps in light liquid service.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... later than 1 year after the compliance date; and (C) Phase III, beginning no later than 21/2 years after... requirements; and (B) Beginning no later than 1 year after initial start-up, comply with the Phase III... parts per million or greater. (ii) For Phase II, an instrument reading of 5,000 parts per million or...

40 CFR 63.163 - Standards: Pumps in light liquid service.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... later than 1 year after the compliance date; and (C) Phase III, beginning no later than 21/2 years after... requirements; and (B) Beginning no later than 1 year after initial start-up, comply with the Phase III... parts per million or greater. (ii) For Phase II, an instrument reading of 5,000 parts per million or...

An Experimental Evaluation of Hyperactivity and Food Additives. 1977-Phase II.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Harley, J. Preston; And Others

Phase II of a study on the effectiveness of B. Feingold's recommended diet for hyperactive children involved the nine children (mean age 9 years) who had shown the "best" response to diet manipulation in Phase I. Each child served as his own control and was challenged with specified amounts of placebo and artificial color containing food…

Polymorphisms of blood forms and in vitro metacyclogenesis of Trypanosoma cruzi I, II, and IV.

PubMed

Abegg, Camila Piva; Abreu, Ana Paula de; Silva, Juliane Lopes da; Araújo, Silvana Marques de; Gomes, Mônica Lúcia; Ferreira, Érika Cristina; Toledo, Max Jean de Ornelas

2017-05-01

Trypanosoma cruzi is the etiologic agent of American trypanosomiasis has broad biological and genetic diversity. Remaining to be studied are polymorphisms of the blood forms and metacyclogenesis of different T. cruzi discrete typing units (DTUs). Our goal was to evaluate the relationship between T. cruzi DTUs, the morphology of blood trypomastigotes, and in vitro metacyclogenesis. T. cruzi strains that pertained to DTUs TcI, TcII, and TcIV from different Brazilian states were used. Parameters that were related to the morphology of eight strains were assessed in thin blood smears that were obtained from mice that were inoculated with blood or culture forms, depending on strain. The metacyclogenesis of 12 strains was measured using smears with Liver Infusion Tryptose culture medium and M16 culture medium (which is poor in nutrients and has a low pH) at the exponential phase of growth, both stained with Giemsa. The morphological pattern of TcII strains was consistent with broad forms of the parasite. In TcIV strains, slender forms predominated. The Y strain (TcII) was morphologically more similar to TcIV. Significant differences in polymorphisms were observed between DTUs. Metacyclogenesis parameters, although displaying large standard deviations, differed between the DTUs, with the following descending rank order: TcII > TcI > TcIV. The mean numbers of metacyclic trypomastigotes for TcII were significantly higher than the other DTUs. Although the DTUs presented overlapping characteristics, the general pattern was that different DTUs exhibited significantly different morphologies and metacyclogenesis, suggesting that the genetic diversity of T. cruzi could be related to parameters that are associated with the evolution of infection in mammalian hosts and its ability to disperse in nature. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Job Aids: Descriptive Authoring Flowcharts for Phase II--DESIGN of the Instructional Systems Development Model.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schulz, Russel E.; Farrell, Jean R.

This resource guide for the use of job aids ("how-to-do-it" guidance) for activities identified in the second phase of the Instructional Systems Development Model (ISD) contains an introduction to the use of job aids, as well as descriptive authoring flowcharts for Blocks II.1 through II.4. The introduction includes definitions;…

Thermal, spectroscopic and structural characterization of isostructural phase transition in 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Panicker, Lata

2018-05-01

Polycrystalline samples of 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde (4-HOBAL) were investigated using differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), Raman spectroscopy and X-ray powder diffraction. The DSC data indicated that 4-HOBAL on heating undergoes a polymorphic transformation from polymorph I to polymorph II. The polymorph II formed remains metastable at ambient condition and transforms to polymorph I when annealed at ambient temperature for more than seven days. The structural information of polymorphs I and II obtained using its X-ray powder diffraction patterns indicated that 4-HOBAL undergoes an isostructural phase transition from polymorph I (monoclinic, P21/c) to polymorph II (monoclinic, P21/c). Raman data suggest that this structural change is associated with some change in its molecular interactions. Thus, in 4-HOBAL the polymorphic phase transformation (II to I) even though energetically favoured is kinetically hindered.

Phase I/II Study of Erlotinib Combined With Cisplatin and Radiotherapy in Patients With Locally Advanced Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck

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

Herchenhorn, Daniel, E-mail: herchenhorn@hotmail.co; Dias, Fernando L.; Viegas, Celia M.P.

Purpose: Erlotinib, an oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor, is active against head-and-neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and possibly has a synergistic interaction with chemotherapy and radiotherapy. We investigated the safety and efficacy of erlotinib added to cisplatin and radiotherapy in locally advanced HNSCC. Methods and Materials: In this Phase I/II trial 100 mg/m{sup 2} of cisplatin was administered on Days 8, 29, and 50, and radiotherapy at 70 Gy was started on Day 8. During Phase I, the erlotinib dose was escalated (50 mg, 100 mg, and 150 mg) in consecutive cohorts of 3 patients, starting on Day 1 and continuingmore » during radiotherapy. Dose-limiting toxicity was defined as any Grade 4 event requiring radiotherapy interruptions. Phase II was initiated 8 weeks after the last Phase I enrollment. Results: The study accrued 9 patients in Phase I and 28 in Phase II; all were evaluable for efficacy and safety. No dose-limiting toxicity occurred in Phase I, and the recommended Phase II dose was 150 mg. The most frequent nonhematologic toxicities were nausea/vomiting, dysphagia, stomatitis, xerostomia and in-field dermatitis, acneiform rash, and diarrhea. Of the 31 patients receiving a 150-mg daily dose of erlotinib, 23 (74%; 95% confidence interval, 56.8%-86.3%) had a complete response, 3 were disease free after salvage surgery, 4 had inoperable residual disease, and 1 died of sepsis during treatment. With a median 37 months' follow-up, the 3-year progression-free and overall survival rates were 61% and 72%, respectively. Conclusions: This combination appears safe, has encouraging activity, and deserves further studies in locally advanced HNSCC.« less

Preparation and characterization of magnetic nanocomposite of Schiff base/silica/magnetite as a preconcentration phase for the trace determination of heavy metal ions in water, food and biological samples using atomic absorption spectrometry.

PubMed

Bagheri, Hasan; Afkhami, Abbas; Saber-Tehrani, Mohammad; Khoshsafar, Hosein

2012-08-15

A versatile and robust solid phase with both magnetic property and a very high adsorption capacity is presented on the basis of modification of iron oxide-silica magnetic particles with a newly synthesized Schiff base (Fe(3)O(4)/SiO(2)/L). The structure of the resulting product was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra, X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectrometry and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). We developed an efficient and cost-effective method for the preconcentration of trace amounts of Pb(II), Cd(II) and Cu(II) in environmental and biological samples using this novel magnetic solid phase. Prepared magnetic solid phase is an ideal support because it has a large surface area, good selectivity and can be easily retrieved from large volumes of aqueous solutions. The possible parameters affecting the enrichment were optimized. Under the optimal conditions, the method detection limit was 0.14, 0.19 and 0.12 μg L(-1) for Pb(II), Cd(II) and Cu(II) ions, respectively. The established method has been successfully applied to analyze real samples, and satisfactory results were obtained. All these indicated that this magnetic phase had a great potential in environmental and biological fields. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Phase I/II Study of Weekly Oraxol for the Second-Line Treatment of Patients With Metastatic or Recurrent Gastric Cancer.

PubMed

Lee, Keun-Wook; Lee, Kyung Hee; Zang, Dae Young; Park, Young Iee; Shin, Dong Bok; Kim, Jin Won; Im, Seock-Ah; Koh, Sung Ae; Yu, Kyung-Sang; Cho, Joo-Youn; Jung, Jin-A; Bang, Yung-Jue

2015-08-01

Oraxol consists of paclitaxel and HM30181A, a P-glycoprotein inhibitor, to increase the oral bioavailability of paclitaxel. This phase I/II study (HM-OXL-201) was conducted to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and recommended phase II dose (RP2D) of Oraxol. In addition, we investigated the efficacy and safety of Oraxol as second-line chemotherapy for metastatic or recurrent gastric cancer (GC). In the phase I component, paclitaxel was orally administered at escalating doses (90, 120, or 150 mg/m(2) per day) with a fixed dose (15 mg/day) of HM30181A. Oraxol was administrated 6 times per cycle (days 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, and 16) every 4 weeks. In the phase II component, the efficacy and safety of Oraxol were evaluated. In the phase I component, the MTD could not be determined. Based on toxicity and pharmacokinetic data, the RP2D of oral paclitaxel was determined to be 150 mg/m(2). In the phase II component, 4 of 43 patients (9.3%) achieved partial responses. Median progression-free survival and overall survival were 2.6 and 10.7 months, respectively. Toxicity profiles were favorable, and the most common drug-related adverse events (grade ≥3) were neutropenia and diarrhea. Oraxol exhibited modest efficacy and favorable toxicity profiles as second-line chemotherapy for GC. ©AlphaMed Press; the data published online to support this summary is the property of the authors.

Growth-differentiation factor-15, endoglin and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide induction in athletes participating in an ultramarathon foot race.

PubMed

Tchou, Isabelle; Margeli, Alexandra; Tsironi, Maria; Skenderi, Katerina; Barnet, Marc; Kanaka-Gantenbein, Christina; Papassotiriou, Ioannis; Beris, Photis

2009-09-01

We investigated the actions of growth-differentiation factor (GDF)-15, endoglin and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-pro-BNP) in 15 male athletes who participated in the ultradistance foot race of the 246 km 'Sparthathlon'. Measurements were performed before (phase I), at the end of the race (phase II) and 48 h post-race (phase III). GDF-15 and endoglin serum concentrations were determined with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and NT-pro-BNP plasma levels by electrochemiluminescence. GDF-15 levels were increased from phase I (563.9 +/- 57.1 pg ml(-1)) to phase II (2311.1 +/- 462.3 pg ml(-1)) and decreased at phase III (862.0 +/- 158.0 pg ml(-1)) (p < 0.0002). NT-pro-BNP levels followed a similar pattern to that of GDF-15 from 38.1 +/- 4.8 pg ml(-1) at phase I to 1280.6 +/- 259.0 pg ml(-1) at phase II and 89.8 +/- 13.6 pg ml(-1) at phase III (p < 0.0001) and at the same time points, endoglin levels were 4.7 +/- 0.2 ng ml(-1) at phase I, 5.8 +/- 0.2 ng ml(-1) at phase II and 4.3 +/- 0.2 ng ml(-1) at phase III (p < 0.002). These findings indicate that circulating GDF-15, endoglin and NT-pro-BNP levels reflect a transient endothelial dysfunction in these athletes who participated in a foot race consisting of continuous, prolonged and brisk exercise.

A phase Ib study of pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy in patients with advanced cancer (PembroPlus).

PubMed

Weiss, Glen J; Waypa, Jordan; Blaydorn, Lisa; Coats, Jessica; McGahey, Kayla; Sangal, Ashish; Niu, Jiaxin; Lynch, Cynthia A; Farley, John H; Khemka, Vivek

2017-06-27

Pembrolizumab (P) is an anti-PD-1 antibody that blocks the interaction between programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) on T-cells and PD-L1 and PD-L2 on tumour cells. A phase Ib trial of P plus chemotherapy was undertaken to evaluate the safety and efficacy. Patients with advanced, metastatic solid tumours were enrolled onto one of six treatment arms. Pembrolizumab was given: with gemcitabine (G), G+docetaxel (D), G+nab-paclitaxel (NP), G+vinorelbine (V) or irinotecan (I) until progression or toxicity, or with liposomal doxorubicin (LD) for up to 15 cycles, progression or toxicity. Safety monitoring and response assessments were conducted. Forty-nine patients were enrolled and treated. The most common adverse events were transaminitis, cytopenias, rash, diarrhoea, fatigue, nausea and vomiting. Arm 2 was closed due to poor accrual. The recommended phase II dose (RP2D) was determined for Arms 1, 3a, 4, 5 and 6. There were eight partial responses across multiple tumour types. Standard dose P can be safely combined with G, G+NP, G+V, I and LD. Efficacy was observed in multiple tumour types and evaluation to determine if response and duration of response are more robust than what would be expected for chemotherapy or immunotherapy alone requires further validation.

Lestaurtinib, a multitargeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor: from bench to bedside.

PubMed

Shabbir, Munira; Stuart, Robert

2010-03-01

Internal tandem duplication of the fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) gene (FLT3-ITD) is a common recurring mutation in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with normal karyotype, and the presence of FLT3-ITD confers a poor prognosis on this large subgroup of AML patients. Since the discovery of lestaurtinib as a potent FLT3 inhibitor, in 1985, there has been considerable interest in the development of this agent (CEP-701, Cephalon, Frazer, PA, USA) for treatment of this population. An extensive literature search was conducted that included published articles and abstracts on the preclinical and clinical development of this agent spanning the last decade. The review describes the historical development of this agent and reviews the available preclinical and clinical data on lestaurtinib and expands on potential future directions in development of this agent. Lestaurtinib is a multi targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor which has been shown to potently inhibit FLT3 at nanomolar concentrations in preclinical studies, leading to its rapid development as a potential targeted agent for treatment of AML. Phase I studies have shown lestaturtinib to be an active agent particularly when used in combination with cytotoxic drugs. Currently, Phase II and Phase III studies are underway aiming to establish the future of this agent as a treatment option for patients with FLT3-ITD AML.

[Stapled transanal rectal resection (STARR) in the treatment of rectocele: personal experience].

PubMed

Guarnieri, Alfredo; Cesaretti, Manuela; Tirone, Andrea; Vuolo, Giuseppe; Verre, Luigi; Savelli, Vinno; Piccolomini, Alessandro; Di Cosmo, Leonardo; Carli, Anton Ferdinando; Burroni, Mariagrazia; Pitzalis, Marcella

2008-01-01

Rectocele is an organic cause of chronic constipation, with a prevalence ranging from 8.95% to 12% in Europe and United States. Necessarily, the approach for rectocele repair is a surgical operation. Stapled transanal rectal resection (STARR) is safe and effective in the treatment of obstructed defecation syndrome. The authors' experience suggests that the surgical operation needs to be combined to rehabilitation exercises, before and after the surgical treatment, in order to strengthen the muscles of the pelvic pavement. From January 2005 to January 2007, 20 patients with outlet obstruction underwent STARR. Patients were selected for operation based on a strict diagnostic protocol: anamnesis, clinical examination, coloproctological and urogynaecological examinations, defecography, anorectal manometry, transrectal ultrasonography and peritoneal electromyography. The therapeutic protocol consists of 3 parts: phase I: rehabilitation of the pelvic pavement; phase II: surgical operation; III phase: post-surgical rehabilitation of the pelvic pavement; The clinical result was classified into: excellent (6 patients), when all constipation symptoms disappeared, good (11 patients), when patient has 1 or 2 obstructed defecation episodes treated with a laxative, fairly good (2 patients), more than 2 episodes, and poor (1 patient), when surgical operation doesn't improve any of the symptoms. Our results, confirmed by the literature, suggest that Longo's technique should be considered as gold standard for rectocele treatment.

South Bay Salt Pond Restoration, Phase II at Ravenswood

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Information about the South Bay Salt Pond Restoration Project: Phase II Construction at Ravenswood, part of an EPA competitive grant program to improve SF Bay water quality focused on restoring impaired waters and enhancing aquatic resources.

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...

Morristown Alternative Transportation Study Phase II.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2005-10-14

This report summarizes the Phase II planning effort conducted by the park and the US Department of Transportation's Volpe Center (the Volpe Center) to articulate a viable park-community pilot transit service for Morristown National Historical Park. M...

The topological pressure-temperature phase diagram of ritonavir, an extraordinary case of crystalline dimorphism.

PubMed

Céolin, R; Rietveld, I B

2015-01-01

A topological pressure-temperature phase diagram involving the phase relationships of ritonavir forms I and II has been constructed using experimental calorimetric and volumetric data available from the literature. The triple point I-II-liquid is located at a temperature of about 407 K and a pressure as extraordinarily small as 17.5 MPa (175 bar). Thus, the less soluble solid phase (form II) will become metastable on increasing pressure. At room temperature, form I becomes stable around 100 MPa indicating that form II may turn into form I at a relatively low pressure of 1000 bar, which may occur under processing conditions such as mixing or grinding. This case is a good example for which a proper thermodynamic evaluation trumps "rules of thumb" such as the density rule. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Detailed validation of the bidirectional effect in various Case I and Case II waters.

PubMed

Gleason, Arthur C R; Voss, Kenneth J; Gordon, Howard R; Twardowski, Michael; Sullivan, James; Trees, Charles; Weidemann, Alan; Berthon, Jean-François; Clark, Dennis; Lee, Zhong-Ping

2012-03-26

Simulated bidirectional reflectance distribution functions (BRDF) were compared with measurements made just beneath the water's surface. In Case I water, the set of simulations that varied the particle scattering phase function depending on chlorophyll concentration agreed more closely with the data than other models. In Case II water, however, the simulations using fixed phase functions agreed well with the data and were nearly indistinguishable from each other, on average. The results suggest that BRDF corrections in Case II water are feasible using single, average, particle scattering phase functions, but that the existing approach using variable particle scattering phase functions is still warranted in Case I water.

Mechanochemical induced structural changes in sucrose using the rotational diamond anvil cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ciezak-Jenkins, Jennifer A.; Jenkins, Timothy A.

2018-02-01

The response of sucrose to high-pressure and shear conditions has been studied in a rotational diamond anvil cell. Previous experiments conducted by Bridgman and Teller showed divergent behavior in regard to the existence of a rheological explosion under mechanochemical stimuli. Raman spectroscopy confirmed the existence of the isostructural Phase I to Phase II transition near 5 GPa. When subjected to high-pressure and shear, Raman spectra of Phase I showed evidence that while the sucrose molecule underwent significant molecular deformation, there was no evidence of a complete chemical reaction. In contrast, Phase II showed a near-total loss of the in-situ Raman signal in response to shear, suggesting the onset of amorphization or decomposition. The divergent behaviors of Phase I and Phase II are examined in light of the differences in the hydrogen bonding and plasticity of the material.

Physics of Colloids in Space (PCS): Microgravity Experiment Completed Operations on the International Space Station

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Doherty, Michael P.; Sankaran, Subramanian

2003-01-01

Immediately after mixing, the two-phase-like colloid-polymer critical point sample begins to phase separate, or de-mix, into two phases-one that resembles a gas and one that resembles a liquid, except that the particles are colloids and not atoms. The colloid-poor black regions (colloidal gas) grow bigger, and the colloid-rich white regions (colloidal liquid) become whiter as the domains further coarsen. Finally, complete phase separation is achieved, that is, just one region of each colloid-rich (white) and colloid-poor (black) phase. This process was studied over four decades of length scale, from 1 micrometer to 1 centimeter.

Phase boundaries of power-law Anderson and Kondo models: A poor man's scaling study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheng, Mengxing; Chowdhury, Tathagata; Mohammed, Aaron; Ingersent, Kevin

2017-07-01

We use the poor man's scaling approach to study the phase boundaries of a pair of quantum impurity models featuring a power-law density of states ρ (ɛ ) ∝|ɛ| r , either vanishing (for r >0 ) or diverging (for r <0 ) at the Fermi energy ɛ =0 , that gives rise to quantum phase transitions between local-moment and Kondo-screened phases. For the Anderson model with a pseudogap (i.e., r >0 ), we find the phase boundary for (a) 0 1 , where the phases are separated by first-order quantum phase transitions that are accessible only for broken p-h symmetry. For the p-h-symmetric Kondo model with easy-axis or easy-plane anisotropy of the impurity-band spin exchange, the phase boundary and scaling trajectories are obtained for both r >0 and r <0 . Throughout the regime of weak-to-moderate impurity-band coupling in which poor man's scaling is expected to be valid, the approach predicts phase boundaries in excellent qualitative and good quantitative agreement with the nonperturbative numerical renormalization group, while also establishing the functional relations between model parameters along these boundaries.

The environmental impact of the Virgo Cluster on the evolution of dwarf irregular galaxies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Henry

Dwarf galaxies are the greatest contributor to the total number of galaxies and most are believed to be systems consisting of matter in a near-primordial state. Containing H I gas and H II regions, dwarf irregular galaxies (dIs) can be used as test bodies to evaluate the impact of the environment on their evolution. Oxygen abundances relative to hydrogen within H II regions are a measure of how far the conversion of gas in the interstellar medium into stars has proceeded as a whole, as abundances do not vary significantly with galactocentric radius in dIs. Measurements of the [O III]λ4363 emission line from H II region spectroscopy provide accurate probes of the electron temperature from which oxygen abundances are directly computed. The impact of the Virgo Cluster environment is investigated by comparing the properties of a set of Virgo dIs with those of a set of dIs in the field. To ensure accurate measures of luminosity and abundance, dIs in the field are chosen to have distance determinations from well-calibrated techniques and oxygen abundances derived from [O III]λ4363 measurements. Spectroscopic data are obtained for H II regions in 11 dIs distributed in the central and outer regions of the Virgo Cluster. There is no systematic difference in oxygen abundance between field dIs and Virgo dIs at a given luminosity, showing that there is no detectable difference in their stellar populations. Oxygen abundances for field dIs are well correlated with the gas fraction in a way which shows definitively that evolution has been isolated, i.e., consistent with the “closed-box” model of chemical evolution. For the gas-poor dI UGC 7636 (VCC 1249), the oxygen abundance of a newly discovered intergalactic H II region is combined with the optical luminosity of the dI and the gas mass of the adjacent H I cloud (STET) to show that STET must have once been the interstellar medium of the dI. Tidal interactions of the dI with the elliptical NGC 4472 combined with ram-pressure stripping by the intracluster medium (ICM) best explain the observed properties of the detached cloud and the dI. A “staged” model is described to examine the chemical evolution of a gas-poor dI in the Virgo Cluster. Motivated by the observations, the model is characterized by three phases: isolated evolution, then sudden stripping which removes most of the gas, followed by a second stage of isolated evolution for the residual gas. The time since a typical stripping event is found to be approximately 1 Gyr or less. The GDIs for Virgo dIs correlate roughly with values of the projected X-ray surface brightness of the intracluster gas at the positions of the dIs. Thus, ram-pressure stripping best explains the observed gas-poor dIs in the Virgo sample. Together with the lack of significant fading, these observations suggest that dIs have recently encountered the ICM for the first time. A faded remnant of a gas-poor dI in Virgo will resemble a bright dE/dSph-like object like those presently seen in the cluster core. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

With Farm Workers: Part II--New York

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Halsell, Grace

1978-01-01

Each year, families travel north from the Texas-Mexico border to New York State to plant and clip celery and onions. These migrants suffer from poor health care, have poor housing, sanitation facilities, and education, and work long hours in the fields. (NQ)

Pavement performance evaluation, phase II : data collection.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2008-12-01

Phase I and II of this study tested approximately 1500 rehabilitated pavements (asphalt and PCC) : throughout the State. These pavements ranged from 5 to 15 years old and were intended to develop a : snapshot of how various rehabilitations were perfo...

Improving traffic safety culture in Iowa : phase II.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-07-01

Phase II of Improving Traffic Safety Culture in Iowa focuses on producing actions that will improve the traffic safety culture across the state, and involves collaboration among the three large public universities in Iowa: Iowa State University, Univ...

South Bay Salt Pond Tidal Wetland Restoration Phase II Planning

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Information about the SFBWQP South Bay Salt Pond Tidal Wetland Restoration Phase II Planning project, part of an EPA competitive grant program to improve SF Bay water quality focused on restoring impaired waters and enhancing aquatic re

Formulation of poorly water-soluble drugs via coacervation--a pilot study using febantel.

PubMed

De Jaeghere, W; De Geest, B G; Van Bocxlaer, J; Remon, J P; Vervaet, C; Antunes da Fonseca, A

2013-11-01

In this study, febantel was dissolved under increased temperature in a nonionic surfactant Lutrol L44® and subsequently mixed into an aqueous maltodextrin solution. After 8h under static conditions, coacervation or phase separation took place. (1)H NMR spectra and HPLC analysis showed that the upper phase contained mainly all febantel, while no febantel was detected in the lower phase. Fluorescent microscopy showed that maltodextrin is distributed in the lower phase. Coacervation proved to be a promising formulation technology for certain poorly water-soluble drugs, such as febantel. The coacervate phase showed an increase in in vitro dissolution kinetics, compared to Rintal® granules. These results were confirmed in an in vivo study performed on dogs. Febantel and fenbendazole showed a significant increase in plasma concentration compared to Rintal® granules. Further studies have to be performed to transform coacervates into a solid dosage form and to prove broad applicability to other poorly soluble drugs. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Thermodynamic, crystallographic, and dielectric study of the nature of glass transitions in cyclo-octanol

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Puertas, Ricardo; Rute, Maria A.; Salud, Josep; López, David O.; Diez, Sergio; van Miltenburg, J. Kees; Pardo, Luis C.; Tamarit, Josep Ll.; Barrio, Maria; Pérez-Jubindo, Miguel A.; de La Fuente, Maria R.

2004-06-01

The stable solid polymorphism of cyclooctanol (C8H16O, for short C8 OH) is revealed to be a complex problem and only two stable solid phases, denoted on cooling from the liquid as phases I and II, are found using static (thermodynamic and x-ray diffraction) as well as dynamic (dielectric spectroscopy) experimental techniques. Both solid phases are known to exhibit glass transitions if they are cooled down fast enough to prevent transition to ordered crystalline states. Although glass transitions corresponding to both phases had been well documented by means of specific heat measurements, x-ray measurements constitute, as far as we know, the first evidence from the structural point of view. In addition, a great amount of dielectric works devoted to phase I and its glass transition, were published in the past but next to nothing relating to the dielectric properties of phase II and its glass transition. The nature of the disorder of phase II will be discussed.

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.

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

Characterization of pH dependent Mn(II) oxidation strategies and formation of a bixbyite-like phase by Mesorhizobium australicum T-G1

USGS Publications Warehouse

Bohu, Tsing; Santelli, Cara M; Akob, Denise M.; Neu, Thomas R; Ciobota, Valerian; Rösch, Petra; Popp, Jürgen; Nietzsche, Sándor; Küsel, Kirsten

2015-01-01

Despite the ubiquity of Mn oxides in natural environments, there are only a few observations of biological Mn(II) oxidation at pH < 6. The lack of low pH Mn-oxidizing bacteria (MOB) isolates limits our understanding of how pH influences biological Mn(II) oxidation in extreme environments. Here, we report that a novel MOB isolate, Mesorhizobium australicum strain T-G1, isolated from an acidic and metalliferous uranium mining area, can oxidize Mn(II) at both acidic and neutral pH using different enzymatic pathways. X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy revealed that T-G1 initiated bixbyite-like Mn oxide formation at pH 5.5 which coincided with multi-copper oxidase expression from early exponential phase to late stationary phase. In contrast, reactive oxygen species (ROS), particularly superoxide, appeared to be more important for T-G1 mediated Mn(II) oxidation at neutral pH. ROS was produced in parallel with the occurrence of Mn(II) oxidation at pH 7.2 from early stationary phase. Solid phase Mn oxides did not precipitate, which is consistent with the presence of a high amount of H2O2 and lower activity of catalase in the liquid culture at pH 7.2. Our results show that M. australicum T-G1, an acid tolerant MOB, can initiate Mn(II) oxidation by varying its oxidation mechanisms depending on the pH and may play an important role in low pH manganese biogeochemical cycling.

Characterization of pH dependent Mn(II) oxidation strategies and formation of a bixbyite-like phase by Mesorhizobium australicum T-G1.

PubMed

Bohu, Tsing; Santelli, Cara M; Akob, Denise M; Neu, Thomas R; Ciobota, Valerian; Rösch, Petra; Popp, Jürgen; Nietzsche, Sándor; Küsel, Kirsten

2015-01-01

Despite the ubiquity of Mn oxides in natural environments, there are only a few observations of biological Mn(II) oxidation at pH < 6. The lack of low pH Mn-oxidizing bacteria (MOB) isolates limits our understanding of how pH influences biological Mn(II) oxidation in extreme environments. Here, we report that a novel MOB isolate, Mesorhizobium australicum strain T-G1, isolated from an acidic and metalliferous uranium mining area, can oxidize Mn(II) at both acidic and neutral pH using different enzymatic pathways. X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy revealed that T-G1 initiated bixbyite-like Mn oxide formation at pH 5.5 which coincided with multi-copper oxidase expression from early exponential phase to late stationary phase. In contrast, reactive oxygen species (ROS), particularly superoxide, appeared to be more important for T-G1 mediated Mn(II) oxidation at neutral pH. ROS was produced in parallel with the occurrence of Mn(II) oxidation at pH 7.2 from early stationary phase. Solid phase Mn oxides did not precipitate, which is consistent with the presence of a high amount of H2O2 and lower activity of catalase in the liquid culture at pH 7.2. Our results show that M. australicum T-G1, an acid tolerant MOB, can initiate Mn(II) oxidation by varying its oxidation mechanisms depending on the pH and may play an important role in low pH manganese biogeochemical cycling.

Specific threonine-4 phosphorylation and function of RNA polymerase II CTD during M phase progression

PubMed Central

Hintermair, Corinna; Voß, Kirsten; Forné, Ignasi; Heidemann, Martin; Flatley, Andrew; Kremmer, Elisabeth; Imhof, Axel; Eick, Dirk

2016-01-01

Dynamic phosphorylation of Tyr1-Ser2-Pro3-Thr4-Ser5-Pro6-Ser7 heptad-repeats in the C-terminal domain (CTD) of the large subunit coordinates progression of RNA polymerase (Pol) II through the transcription cycle. Here, we describe an M phase-specific form of Pol II phosphorylated at Thr4, but not at Tyr1, Ser2, Ser5, and Ser7 residues. Thr4 phosphorylated Pol II binds to centrosomes and midbody and interacts with the Thr4-specific Polo-like kinase 1. Binding of Pol II to centrosomes does not require the CTD but may involve subunits of the non-canonical R2TP-Prefoldin-like complex, which bind to and co-localize with Pol II at centrosomes. CTD Thr4 mutants, but not Ser2 and Ser5 mutants, display severe mitosis and cytokinesis defects characterized by multipolar spindles and polyploid cells. We conclude that proper M phase progression of cells requires binding of Pol II to centrosomes to facilitate regulation of mitosis and cytokinesis in a CTD Thr4-P dependent manner. PMID:27264542

Specific threonine-4 phosphorylation and function of RNA polymerase II CTD during M phase progression.

PubMed

Hintermair, Corinna; Voß, Kirsten; Forné, Ignasi; Heidemann, Martin; Flatley, Andrew; Kremmer, Elisabeth; Imhof, Axel; Eick, Dirk

2016-06-06

Dynamic phosphorylation of Tyr1-Ser2-Pro3-Thr4-Ser5-Pro6-Ser7 heptad-repeats in the C-terminal domain (CTD) of the large subunit coordinates progression of RNA polymerase (Pol) II through the transcription cycle. Here, we describe an M phase-specific form of Pol II phosphorylated at Thr4, but not at Tyr1, Ser2, Ser5, and Ser7 residues. Thr4 phosphorylated Pol II binds to centrosomes and midbody and interacts with the Thr4-specific Polo-like kinase 1. Binding of Pol II to centrosomes does not require the CTD but may involve subunits of the non-canonical R2TP-Prefoldin-like complex, which bind to and co-localize with Pol II at centrosomes. CTD Thr4 mutants, but not Ser2 and Ser5 mutants, display severe mitosis and cytokinesis defects characterized by multipolar spindles and polyploid cells. We conclude that proper M phase progression of cells requires binding of Pol II to centrosomes to facilitate regulation of mitosis and cytokinesis in a CTD Thr4-P dependent manner.

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…

40 CFR 76.8 - Early election for Group 1, Phase II boilers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) ACID RAIN NITROGEN OXIDES EMISSION REDUCTION PROGRAM § 76.8 Early election for Group 1... plan and: (i) If a Phase I Acid Rain permit governing the source at which the unit is located has been... chapter to include the early election plan; or (ii) If a Phase I Acid Rain permit governing the source at...

40 CFR 76.8 - Early election for Group 1, Phase II boilers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) ACID RAIN NITROGEN OXIDES EMISSION REDUCTION PROGRAM § 76.8 Early election for Group 1... plan and: (i) If a Phase I Acid Rain permit governing the source at which the unit is located has been... chapter to include the early election plan; or (ii) If a Phase I Acid Rain permit governing the source at...

40 CFR 76.8 - Early election for Group 1, Phase II boilers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) ACID RAIN NITROGEN OXIDES EMISSION REDUCTION PROGRAM § 76.8 Early election for Group 1... plan and: (i) If a Phase I Acid Rain permit governing the source at which the unit is located has been... chapter to include the early election plan; or (ii) If a Phase I Acid Rain permit governing the source at...

40 CFR 76.8 - Early election for Group 1, Phase II boilers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) ACID RAIN NITROGEN OXIDES EMISSION REDUCTION PROGRAM § 76.8 Early election for Group 1... plan and: (i) If a Phase I Acid Rain permit governing the source at which the unit is located has been... chapter to include the early election plan; or (ii) If a Phase I Acid Rain permit governing the source at...

40 CFR 76.8 - Early election for Group 1, Phase II boilers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) ACID RAIN NITROGEN OXIDES EMISSION REDUCTION PROGRAM § 76.8 Early election for Group 1... plan and: (i) If a Phase I Acid Rain permit governing the source at which the unit is located has been... chapter to include the early election plan; or (ii) If a Phase I Acid Rain permit governing the source at...

Extension and Public Service in the University of Illinois. Phase II Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Illinois Univ., Urbana.

Phase II of the report on the problem outlined in Phase I deals with specific recommendations for expanding and improving the extension and public service functions of the University of Illinois. To be effective, the university needs a master plan in which the four essential ingredients must be (1) broad, strong and explicit policy commitments by…

High-Rate Charging Induced Intermediate Phases and Structural Changes of Layer-Structured Cathode for Lithium-Ion Batteries

DOE PAGES

Zhou, Yong-Ning; Yue, Ji-Li; Hu, Enyuan; ...

2016-08-08

Using fast time-resolved in situ X-ray diffraction, charge-rate dependent phase transition processes of layer structured cathode material LiNi 1/3Mn 1/3Co 1/3O 2 for lithium-ion batteries are studied. During first charge, intermediate phases emerge at high rates of 10C, 30C, and 60C, but not at low rates of 0.1C and 1C. These intermediate phases can be continuously observed during relaxation after the charging current is switched off. After half-way charging at high rate, sample studied by scanning transmission electron microscopy shows Li-rich and Li-poor phases' coexistence with tetrahedral occupation of Li in Li-poor phase. Also, the high rate induced overpotential ismore » thought to be the driving force for the formation of this intermediate Li-poor phase. The in situ quick X-ray absorption results show that the oxidation of Ni accelerates with increasing charging rate and the Ni 4+ state can be reached at the end of charge with 30C rate. Finally, these results give new insights in the understanding of the layered cathodes during high-rate charging.« less

A Report on the Navy SBIR Program: Best Practices, Roadblocks and Recommendations for Technology Transition

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-04-01

a recommendation to the Phase I Sponsor, the NAVSEA SBIR Program Manager, and the PCO between 90 and 180 days after Phase I contract execution...determine eligibility for Phase II and send recommendations to sponsor Between 90 and 180 days after contract execution PCO Invites Phase II Proposals...manning study to evaluate the claim of inadequate numbers of contracting personnel. Although there were symptoms that contract delays were in part

Comparison between the phase I and phase II 6 m coke oven batteries of C. Still type in China Steel Corporation

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

Chiao-Hwa, H.; Tai-Heng, C.; Cheng-Hwa, L.

1983-01-01

The 98 ovens built for phase II batteries at China Steel Corporation show significant improvements over those of phase I, although they are operated in series with these. Improvements discussed in this paper include those associated with the single collection main, water sealing for the ascension pipe, aspiration by high pressure flushing liquor, self-sealing doors, wall head armour structures, waste gas flues and thermal efficiency.

Uroplakin II Expression in Breast Carcinomas Showing Apocrine Differentiation: Putting Some Emphasis on Invasive Pleomorphic Lobular Carcinoma as a Potential Mimic of Urothelial Carcinoma at Metastatic Sites.

PubMed

Tajima, Shogo; Koda, Kenji

2016-01-01

Uroplakin II antibody is exclusively specific for urothelial carcinoma. Nonurothelial carcinoma has not been reported to be immunoreactive for uroplakin II. In the present study, we hypothesized that breast carcinoma showing apocrine differentiation, such as invasive pleomorphic lobular carcinoma (IPLC) and apocrine carcinoma (AC), stains positive for uroplakin II. We identified 6 cases of IPLC between 2000 and 2014 by searching a computerized pathological database. We randomly selected 10 cases of each classic invasive lobular carcinoma (cILC) and AC and five cases of apocrine metaplasia (AM) that coexisted in a surgically resected breast carcinoma specimen. Immunohistochemistry was performed for uroplakin II, GATA3, CK7, CK20, and other representative markers positive for urothelial carcinoma. All cases of IPLC, AC, and AM, except those of cILC, showed immunoreactivity for uroplakin II. Poorly differentiated urothelial carcinoma sometimes shows similar morphology to IPLC with the following immunophenotype: CK7+, CK20-, GATA3+, and uroplakin II+. In the present study, this immunophenotype was observed in all the cases of IPLC and AC. Therefore, when studying metastatic, poorly differentiated carcinoma showing the aforementioned immunophenotype, we should consider the possibility of it being IPLC in addition to metastatic urothelial carcinoma.

HIGH-RESOLUTION SPECTROSCOPY OF EXTREMELY METAL-POOR STARS IN THE LEAST EVOLVED GALAXIES: BOÖTES II

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

Ji, Alexander P.; Frebel, Anna; Simon, Joshua D.

2016-01-20

We present high-resolution Magellan/MIKE spectra of the four brightest confirmed red giant stars in the ultra-faint dwarf galaxy Boötes II (Boo II). These stars all inhabit the metal-poor tail of the Boo II metallicity distribution function. The chemical abundance pattern of all detectable elements in these stars is consistent with that of the Galactic halo. However, all four stars have undetectable amounts of neutron-capture elements Sr and Ba, with upper limits comparable to the lowest ever detected in the halo or in other dwarf galaxies. One star exhibits significant radial velocity variations over time, suggesting it to be in a binary system. Itsmore » variable velocity has likely increased past determinations of the Boo II velocity dispersion. Our four stars span a limited metallicity range, but their enhanced α-abundances and low neutron-capture abundances are consistent with the interpretation that Boo II has been enriched by very few generations of stars. The chemical abundance pattern in Boo II confirms the emerging trend that the faintest dwarf galaxies have neutron-capture abundances distinct from the halo, suggesting the dominant source of neutron-capture elements in halo stars may be different than in ultra-faint dwarfs.« less

Removal and recovery of mercury(II) from hazardous wastes using 1-(2-thiazolylazo)-2-naphthol functionalized activated carbon as solid phase extractant.

PubMed

Starvin, A M; Rao, T Prasada

2004-09-10

As a part of removal of toxic heavy metals from hazardous wastes, solid phase extraction (SPE) of mercury(II) at trace and ultra trace levels was studied using 1-(2-thiazolylazo)-2-naphthol (TAN) functionalized activated carbon (AC). The SPE material removes traces of mercury(II) quantitatively in the pH range 6.0 +/- 0.2. Other parameters that influence quantitative recovery of mercury(II), viz. percent concentration of TAN in AC, amount of TAN-AC, preconcentration time and volume of aqueous phase were varied and optimized. The possible means of removal of Hg(II) from other metal ions that are likely to be present in the wastes of the chloroalkali industry is discussed. The potential of TAN-functionalized AC SPE material for decontaminating mercury from the brine sludge and cell house effluent of a chloralkali plant has been evaluated.

Systematic and comprehensive strategy for metabolite profiling in bioanalysis using software-assisted HPLC-Q-TOF: magnoflorine as an example.

PubMed

Tian, Xiaoting; Zhang, Yucheng; Li, Zhixiong; Hu, Pei; Chen, Mingcang; Sun, Zhaolin; Lin, Yunfei; Pan, Guoyu; Huang, Chenggang

2016-03-01

Metabolite profiling plays a crucial role in drug discovery and development, and HPLC-Q-TOF has evolved into a powerful and effective high-resolution analytical tool for metabolite detection. However, traditional empirical identification is laborious and incomplete. This paper presents a systematic and comprehensive strategy for elucidating metabolite structures using software-assisted HPLC-Q-TOF that takes full advantage of data acquisition, data processing, and data mining technologies, especially for high-throughput metabolite screening. This strategy has been successfully applied in the study of magnoflorine metabolism based on our previous report of its poor bioavailability and drug-drug interactions. In this report, 23 metabolites of magnoflorine were tentatively identified with detailed fragmentation pathways in rat biological samples (urine, feces, plasma, and various organs) after i.p. or i.g. administration, and for most of these metabolites, the metabolic sites were determined. The phase I biotransformations of magnoflorine (M1-M7, M10-M14) consist of demethylation, dehydrogenation, hydroxylation, methylene to ketone transformation, N-ring opening, and dehydroxylation. The phase II biotransformations (M8, M9, and M15-M23) consist of methylation, acetylation, glucuronidation, and N-acetylcysteine conjugation. The results indicate that the extensive metabolism and wide tissue distribution of magnoflorine and its metabolites may partly contribute to its poor bioavailability and drug-drug interaction, and i.p. administration should thus be a suitable approach for isolating magnoflorine metabolites. In summary, this strategy could provide an efficient, rapid, and reliable method for the structural characterization of drug metabolites and may be applicable for general Q-TOF users.

Caltrans WeatherShare Phase II System: An Application of Systems and Software Engineering Process to Project Development

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-08-25

In cooperation with the California Department of Transportation, Montana State University's Western Transportation Institute has developed the WeatherShare Phase II system by applying Systems Engineering and Software Engineering processes. The system...

Roadway lighting and safety : phase II--monitoring quality, durability and efficiency.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-10-01

This Phase II project follows a previous project titled Strategies to Address Nighttime Crashes at Rural, Unsignalized Intersections. Based on the results of the previous study, the Iowa Highway Research Board (IHRB) indicated interest in pursuing fu...

North Carolina "Sealed Corridor" Phase I, II, and III Assessment

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-10-01

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) tasked the John A. Volpe National Transportation Systems Center to document the further success of the North Carolina DOT "Sealed Corridor" project through Phases I, II, and III. The Sealed Corridor is the se...

Final report of evaluation of masonry coatings : phase II.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1972-11-01

This research project was undertaken to evaluate several coating systems for concrete masonry to replace the presently used Class 2 rubbed finish. This is the report of Phase II, the field evaluation, of that project. : In early October 1970, applica...

Evaluation of Phase II of the SmarTraveler advanced traveler information system : operational test

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1994-07-31

Under contract to the Massachusetts Highway Department, the Central Transportation : Planning Staff (technical staff to the Boston MPO) chose Multisystems, Inc. of : Cambridge, Massachusetts, to perform an evaluation of Phase II of the SmarTraveler :...

System design and architecture for the IDTO prototype : phase II demonstration site (central Florida).

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-05-01

This report documents the System Design and Architecture for the Phase II implementation of the Integrated Dynamic Transit Operations (IDTO) Prototype bundle within the Dynamic Mobility Applications (DMA) portion of the Connected Vehicle Program. Thi...

Research safety vehicle. Phase II. Volume II. comprehensive technical results. Final report July 1975--December 1976

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

DiNapoli, N.; Fitzpatrick, M.; Strother, C.

1977-11-01

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 Presidential Task Force on Motor Vehicle Goals beyond 1980.

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

An Assessment of Spaceborne Near-Nadir Interferometric SAR Performance Over Inland Waters with Real

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tan, H.; Li, S. Y.; Liu, Z. W.

2018-04-01

Elevation measurements of the continental water surface have been poorly collected with in situ measurements or occasionally with conventional altimeters with low accuracy. Techniques using InSAR at near-nadir angles to measure the inland water elevation with large swath and with high accuracy have been proposed, for instance, the WSOA on Jason 2 and the KaRIn on SWOT. However, the WSOA was abandoned unfortunately and the SWOT is planned to be launched in 2021. In this paper, we show real acquisitions of the first spaceborne InSAR of such kind, the Interferometric Imaging Radar Altimeter (InIRA), which has been working on Tiangong II spacecraft since 2016. We used the 90-m SRTM DEM as a reference to estimate the phase offset, and then an empirical calibration model was used to correct the baseline errors.

Phase I and II feasibility study report for the 300-FF-5 operable unit

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

NONE

1993-12-31

The purpose of this Phase I/II feasibility study is to assemble and screen a list of alternatives for remediation of the 300-FF-5 operable site on the Hanford Reservation. This screening is based on information gathered in the Phase I Remedial Investigation (RI) and on currently available information on remediation technologies. The alternatives remaining after screening provide a range of response actions for remediation. In addition, key data needs are identified for collection during a Phase II RI (if necessary). This Phase I/II FS represents a primary document as defined by the Tri-Party Agreement, but will be followed by a Phasemore » III FS that will further develop the alternatives and provide a detailed evaluation of them. The following remedial action objectives were identified for the 300-FF-5 operable unit: Limit current human exposure to contaminated groundwater in the unit; Limit discharge of contaminated groundwater to the Columbia River; Reduce contaminant concentrations in groundwater below acceptable levels by the year 2018.« less

Brominated flame retardants in Chinese air before and after the phase out of polybrominated diphenyl ethers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Wen-Long; Qi, Hong; Ma, Wan-Li; Liu, Li-Yan; Zhang, Zhi; Mohammed, Mohammed O. A.; Song, Wei-Wei; Zhang, Zifeng; Li, Yi-Fan

2015-09-01

Brominated flame retardants (BFRs), including polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and novel non-BDE flame retardants (NBFRs), were analyzed in Chinese air during China's POPs Soil and Air Monitoring Program Phase I (SAMP-I) and Phase II (SAMP-II). The levels of Σ12PBDEs and Σ6NBFRs in urban sites were significantly higher than those in rural sites and background sites. The higher detection rate and concentrations of high molecular weight PBDEs and NBFRs in Phase II indicated the changing of the commercial pattern of BFRs after the phase out of PBDEs in China. Temperature was the major factor affecting the seasonal variations of molecular weight BFRs in atmosphere. A significant correlation between BFRs concentration and gross domestic product (GDP) was observed, with the GDP parameter explained 59.4% and 72.7% of the total variability for Octa-BDEs and low molecular weight NBFRs, respectively. Our findings indicated an evolving commercial usage of BFRs from SAMP-I to SAMP-II, i.e. shifting from lower molecular weight to higher molecular weight congeners in China.

Understanding decomposition and encapsulation energies of structure I and II clathrate hydrates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alavi, Saman; Ohmura, Ryo

2016-10-01

When compressed with water or ice under high pressure and low temperature conditions, some gases form solid gas hydrate inclusion compounds which have higher melting points than ice under those pressures. In this work, we study the balance of the guest-water and water-water interaction energies that lead to the formation of the clathrate hydrate phases. In particular, molecular dynamics simulations with accurate water potentials are used to study the energetics of the formation of structure I (sI) and II (sII) clathrate hydrates of methane, ethane, and propane. The dissociation enthalpy of the clathrate hydrate phases, the encapsulation enthalpy of methane, ethane, and propane guests in the corresponding phases, and the average bonding enthalpy of water molecules are calculated and compared with accurate calorimetric measurements and previous classical and quantum mechanical calculations, when available. The encapsulation energies of methane, ethane, and propane guests stabilize the small and large sI and sII hydrate cages, with the larger molecules giving larger encapsulation energies. The average water-water interactions are weakened in the sI and sII phases compared to ice. The relative magnitudes of the van der Waals potential energy in ice and the hydrate phases are similar, but in the ice phase, the electrostatic interactions are stronger. The stabilizing guest-water "hydrophobic" interactions compensate for the weaker water-water interactions and stabilize the hydrate phases. A number of common assumptions regarding the guest-cage water interactions are used in the van der Waals-Platteeuw statistical mechanical theory to predict the clathrate hydrate phase stability under different pressure-temperature conditions. The present calculations show that some of these assumptions may not accurately reflect the physical nature of the interactions between guest molecules and the lattice waters.

Understanding decomposition and encapsulation energies of structure I and II clathrate hydrates.

PubMed

Alavi, Saman; Ohmura, Ryo

2016-10-21

When compressed with water or ice under high pressure and low temperature conditions, some gases form solid gas hydrate inclusion compounds which have higher melting points than ice under those pressures. In this work, we study the balance of the guest-water and water-water interaction energies that lead to the formation of the clathrate hydrate phases. In particular, molecular dynamics simulations with accurate water potentials are used to study the energetics of the formation of structure I (sI) and II (sII) clathrate hydrates of methane, ethane, and propane. The dissociation enthalpy of the clathrate hydrate phases, the encapsulation enthalpy of methane, ethane, and propane guests in the corresponding phases, and the average bonding enthalpy of water molecules are calculated and compared with accurate calorimetric measurements and previous classical and quantum mechanical calculations, when available. The encapsulation energies of methane, ethane, and propane guests stabilize the small and large sI and sII hydrate cages, with the larger molecules giving larger encapsulation energies. The average water-water interactions are weakened in the sI and sII phases compared to ice. The relative magnitudes of the van der Waals potential energy in ice and the hydrate phases are similar, but in the ice phase, the electrostatic interactions are stronger. The stabilizing guest-water "hydrophobic" interactions compensate for the weaker water-water interactions and stabilize the hydrate phases. A number of common assumptions regarding the guest-cage water interactions are used in the van der Waals-Platteeuw statistical mechanical theory to predict the clathrate hydrate phase stability under different pressure-temperature conditions. The present calculations show that some of these assumptions may not accurately reflect the physical nature of the interactions between guest molecules and the lattice waters.

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

Evaluation of hydrothermal resources of North Dakota. Phase II. Final technical report

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

Harris, K.L.; Howell, F.L.; Winczewski, L.M.

1981-06-01

This evaluation of the hydrothermal resources of North Dakota is based on existing data on file with the North Dakota Geological Survey (NDGS) and other state and federal agencies, and field and laboratory studies conducted. The principal sources of data used during the Phase II study were WELLFILE, the computer library of oil and gas well data developed during the Phase I study, and WATERCAT, a computer library system of water well data assembled during the Phase II study. A field survey of the shallow geothermal gradients present in selected groundwater observation holes was conducted. Laboratory determinations of the thermalmore » conductivity of core samples is being done to facilitate heat-flow calculations on those hole-of-convenience cased.« less

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).

DETERMINING THE LARGE-SCALE ENVIRONMENTAL DEPENDENCE OF GAS-PHASE METALLICITY IN DWARF GALAXIES

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

Douglass, Kelly A.; Vogeley, Michael S., E-mail: kelly.a.douglass@drexel.edu

2017-01-10

We study how the cosmic environment affects galaxy evolution in the universe by comparing the metallicities of dwarf galaxies in voids with dwarf galaxies in more dense regions. Ratios of the fluxes of emission lines, particularly those of the forbidden [O iii] and [S ii] transitions, provide estimates of a region’s electron temperature and number density. From these two quantities and the emission line fluxes [O ii] λ 3727, [O iii] λ 4363, and [O iii] λλ 4959, 5007, we estimate the abundance of oxygen with the direct T{sub e}  method. We estimate the metallicity of 42 blue, star-forming voidmore » dwarf galaxies and 89 blue, star-forming dwarf galaxies in more dense regions using spectroscopic observations from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey Data Release 7, as reprocessed in the MPA-JHU value-added catalog. We find very little difference between the two sets of galaxies, indicating little influence from the large-scale environment on their chemical evolution. Of particular interest are a number of extremely metal-poor dwarf galaxies that are less prevalent in voids than in the denser regions.« less

Review article: novel oral-targeted therapies in inflammatory bowel disease.

PubMed

White, J R; Phillips, F; Monaghan, T; Fateen, W; Samuel, S; Ghosh, S; Moran, G W

2018-06-01

There is a great unmet clinical need for efficacious, tolerable, economical and orally administrated drugs for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). New therapeutic avenues have become possible including the development of medications that target specific genetic pathways found to be relevant in other immune mediated diseases. To provide an overview of recent clinical trials for new generation oral targeted medications that may have a future role in IBD management. Pubmed and Medline searches were performed up to 1 March 2018 using keywords: "IBD", "UC", "CD", "inflammatory bowel disease" "ulcerative colitis", "Crohn's disease" in combination with "phase", "study", "trial" and "oral". A manual search of the clinical trial register, article reference lists, abstracts from meetings of Digestive Disease Week, United European Gastroenterology Week and ECCO congress were also conducted. In randomised controlled trials primary efficacy endpoints were met for tofacitinib (JAK 1/3 inhibitor-phase III), upadacitinib (JAK 1 inhibitor-phase II) and AJM300 (α4-integrin antagonist-phase II) in ulcerative colitis. Ozanimod (S1P receptor agonist-phase II) also demonstrated clinical remission. For Crohn's disease, filgotinib (JAK1 inhibitor-phase II) met primary endpoints and laquinimod (quinolone-3-carboxide small molecule-phase II) was also efficacious. Trials using mongersen (SMAD7 inhibitor) and vidofludimus (dihydroorotate dehydrogenase inhibitor) have been halted. This is potentially the start of an exciting new era in which multiple therapeutic options are at the disposal of physicians to treat IBD on an individualised basis. Head-to-head studies with existing treatments and longer term safety data are needed for this to be possible. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

75 FR 62530 - Eagle Creek Hydro Power, LLC; Laredo Ridge Wind, LLC; RRI Energy West, Inc.; Goshen Phase II LLC...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-10-12

...; EG10-52-000; EG10-53-000; EG10- 54-000; EG10-55-000; EG10-56-000] Eagle Creek Hydro Power, LLC; Laredo Ridge Wind, LLC; RRI Energy West, Inc.; Goshen Phase II LLC; Solar Partners I, LLC; Solar Partners II, LLC; Solar Partners VIII, LLC; Notice of Effectiveness of Exempt Wholesale Generator Status October 1...

Project 1946: Phase II

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-07-01

History (Project 1946 - Phase II),” for the National Intelligence Council. The views, opinions, and findings should not be construed as representing...29 Section 1: Senior Leadership  Foreign Assistance  Officer Corps  Saddam‘s Personality ...45 Section 3: Personal Interactions with Saddam  Senior Leadership

Magnetic sensor for nondestructive evaluation of deteriorated prestressing strand : phase II.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-08-01

This report gives an account of the execution and achievements in Phase II of the project completed through August 2011. The main objective of this project is to advance the practical development of a nondestructive testing and evaluation method usin...

New Round of Studies Begin in Phase 0/I/II Cancer Prevention Clinical Trials Program | Division of Cancer Prevention

Cancer.gov

The NCI Division of Cancer Prevention’s Phase 0/I/II Cancer Prevention Clinical Trials Program, also known as the Consortia for Early Phase Prevention Trials, is beginning a new round of studies in the effort toward systematic early clinical development of promising preventive agents for people at increased risk of developing cancer. |

Chronology and pyroclastic stratigraphy of the May 18, 1980, eruption of Mount St. Helens, Washington

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Criswell, C. William

1987-01-01

The eruption of Mount St. Helens on May 18, 1980 can be subdivided into six phases: the paroxysmal phase I, the early Plinian phase II, the early ash flow phase III, the climactic phase IV, the late ash flow phase V, and phase VI, the activity of which consisted of a low-energy ash plume. These phases are correlated with stratigraphic subunits of ash-fall tephra and pyroclastic flow deposits. Sustained vertical discharge of phase II produced evolved dacite with high S/Cl ratios. Ash flow activity of phase III is attributed to decreases in gas content, indicated by reduced S/Cl ratios and increased clast density of the less evolved gray pumice. Climactic events are attributed to vent clearing and exhaustion of the evolved dacite.

Expendable Air Vehicles/High Altitude Balloon Technology. Phase 1.

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-08-02

CHR/91 -2750 I I I I I THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK 3 I I U I I I I I I I I I CHR/91 -2750 PREFACE The work described in this Phase II SBIR...Final Technical Report is the implementation of a capability which Coleman Research Corporation demon- strated during a Phase I SBIR (contract number...CRC) has developed a Balloon Drift Pattern Simulation 1BDPS). CRC developed this simulation software for digital computers as a product of a Phase II

A green separation strategy for neodymium (III) from cobalt (II) and nickel (II) using an ionic liquid-based aqueous two-phase system.

PubMed

Chen, Yuehua; Wang, Huiyong; Pei, Yuanchao; Wang, Jianji

2018-05-15

It is significant to develop sustainable strategies for the selective separation of rare earth from transition metals from fundamental and practical viewpoint. In this work, an environmentally friendly solvent extraction approach has been developed to selectively separate neodymium (III) from cobalt (II) and nickel (II) by using an ionic liquid-based aqueous two phase system (IL-ATPS). For this purpose, a hydrophilic ionic liquid (IL) tetrabutylphosphonate nitrate ([P 4444 ][NO 3 ]) was prepared and used for the formation of an ATPS with NaNO 3 . Binodal curves of the ATPSs have been determined for the design of extraction process. The extraction parameters such as contact time, aqueous phase pH, content of phase-formation components of NaNO 3 and the ionic liquid have been investigated systematically. It is shown that under optimal conditions, the extraction efficiency of neodymium (III) is as high as 99.7%, and neodymium (III) can be selectively separated from cobalt (II) and nickel (II) with a separation factor of 10 3 . After extraction, neodymium (III) can be stripped from the IL-rich phase by using dilute aqueous sodium oxalate, and the ILs can be quantitatively recovered and reused in the next extraction process. Since [P 4444 ][NO 3 ] works as one of the components of the ATPS and the extractant for the neodymium, no organic diluent, extra etractant and fluorinated ILs are used in the separation process. Thus, the strategy described here shows potential in green separation of neodymium from cobalt and nickel by using simple IL-based aqueous two-phase system. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A Role of Erythrocytes in Adenosine Monophosphate Initiation of Hypometabolism in Mammals*

PubMed Central

Daniels, Isadora Susan; Zhang, Jianfa; O'Brien, William G.; Tao, Zhenyin; Miki, Tomoko; Zhao, Zhaoyang; Blackburn, Michael R.; Lee, Cheng Chi

2010-01-01

Biochemical and mechanistic aspects into how various hypometabolic states are initiated in mammals are poorly understood. Here, we show how a state of hypometabolism is initiated by 5′-AMP uptake by erythrocytes. Wild type, ecto-5′-nucleotidase-deficient, and adenosine receptor-deficient mice undergo 5′-AMP-induced hypometabolism in a similar fashion. Injection of 5′-AMP leads to two distinct declining phases of oxygen consumption (VO2). The phase I response displays a rapid and steep decline in VO2 that is independent of body temperature (Tb) and ambient temperature (Ta). It is followed by a phase II decline that is linked to Tb and moderated by Ta. Altering the dosages of 5′-AMP from 0.25- to 2-fold does not change the phase I response. For mice, a Ta of 15 °C is effective for induction of DH with the appropriate dose of 5′-AMP. Erythrocyte uptake of 5′-AMP leads to utilization of ATP to synthesize ADP. This is accompanied by increased glucose but decreased lactate levels, suggesting that glycolysis has slowed. Reduction in glycolysis is known to stimulate erythrocytes to increase intracellular levels of 2,3-bisphosphoglycerate, a potent allosteric inhibitor of hemoglobin's affinity for oxygen. Our studies showed that both 2,3-bisphosphoglycerate and deoxyhemoglobin levels rose following 5′-AMP administration and is in parallel with the phase I decline in VO2. In summary, our investigations reveal that 5′-AMP mediated hypometabolism is probably triggered by reduced oxygen transport by erythrocytes initiated by uptake of 5′-AMP. PMID:20430891

A role of erythrocytes in adenosine monophosphate initiation of hypometabolism in mammals.

PubMed

Daniels, Isadora Susan; Zhang, Jianfa; O'Brien, William G; Tao, Zhenyin; Miki, Tomoko; Zhao, Zhaoyang; Blackburn, Michael R; Lee, Cheng Chi

2010-07-02

Biochemical and mechanistic aspects into how various hypometabolic states are initiated in mammals are poorly understood. Here, we show how a state of hypometabolism is initiated by 5'-AMP uptake by erythrocytes. Wild type, ecto-5'-nucleotidase-deficient, and adenosine receptor-deficient mice undergo 5'-AMP-induced hypometabolism in a similar fashion. Injection of 5'-AMP leads to two distinct declining phases of oxygen consumption (VO(2)). The phase I response displays a rapid and steep decline in VO(2) that is independent of body temperature (T(b)) and ambient temperature (T(a)). It is followed by a phase II decline that is linked to T(b) and moderated by T(a). Altering the dosages of 5'-AMP from 0.25- to 2-fold does not change the phase I response. For mice, a T(a) of 15 degrees C is effective for induction of DH with the appropriate dose of 5'-AMP. Erythrocyte uptake of 5'-AMP leads to utilization of ATP to synthesize ADP. This is accompanied by increased glucose but decreased lactate levels, suggesting that glycolysis has slowed. Reduction in glycolysis is known to stimulate erythrocytes to increase intracellular levels of 2,3-bisphosphoglycerate, a potent allosteric inhibitor of hemoglobin's affinity for oxygen. Our studies showed that both 2,3-bisphosphoglycerate and deoxyhemoglobin levels rose following 5'-AMP administration and is in parallel with the phase I decline in VO(2). In summary, our investigations reveal that 5'-AMP mediated hypometabolism is probably triggered by reduced oxygen transport by erythrocytes initiated by uptake of 5'-AMP.

The impact of RTOG 0614 and RTOG 0933 trials in routine clinical practice: The US Survey of Utilization of Memantine and IMRT planning for hippocampus sparing in patients receiving whole brain radiotherapy for brain metastases.

PubMed

Slade, Alexander N; Stanic, Sinisa

2016-03-01

Two recent clinical trials, phase III RTOG 0614 and phase II RTOG 0933, showed some effectiveness of Memantine and IMRT planning for hippocampus sparing, among patients receiving whole brain radiotherapy (WBRT) for brain metastases; however, their use in routine clinical practice is unknown. A survey was sent to 1933 radiation oncologists in the US. Data collected included utilization of Memantine and hippocampus sparing, reasons for adoption and non-adoption, and demographic variables. A total of 196 radiation oncologists responded to the survey, with 64% reporting using Memantine in almost none of the patients receiving WBRT for brain metastases, and only 11% considering Memantine for <10% of their patients. The most common reason for not using Memantine was a poor patient performance status, and limited life expectancy. Likewise, 56% of radiation oncologists would not change their clinical practice to include hippocampus sparing IMRT in patients receiving WBRT based on the results of RTOG 0933. Further validation of hippocampus sparing in a phase III trial was supported by 71% of radiation oncologists, whereas further exploration of Memantine for this purpose in a phase III trial was supported by 42%. At this time, the majority of surveyed radiation oncologists in the US do not use Memantine, or IMRT planning for hippocampus sparing in patients receiving WBRT. Further validation of the hippocampus sparing concept in a phase III trial was supported, before adopting it in routine clinical practice. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Design of Phase II Clinical Trials Testing Cancer Therapeutics: Consensus Recommendations from the Clinical Trial Design Task Force of the National Cancer Institute Investigational Drug Steering Committee

PubMed Central

Seymour, Lesley; Ivy, S. Percy; Sargent, Daniel; Spriggs, David; Baker, Laurence; Rubinstein, Larry; Ratain, Mark J; Le Blanc, Michael; Stewart, David; Crowley, John; Groshen, Susan; Humphrey, Jeffrey S; West, Pamela; Berry, Donald

2010-01-01

The optimal design of phase II studies continues to be the subject of vigorous debate, especially with regards to studies of newer molecularly targeted agents. The observations that many new therapeutics ‘fail’ in definitive phase III studies, coupled with the numbers of new agents to be tested as well as the increasing costs and complexity of clinical trials further emphasizes the critical importance of robust and efficient phase II design. The Clinical Trial Design Task Force(CTD-TF)of the NCI Investigational Drug Steering Committee (IDSC) has published a series of discussion papers on Phase II trial design in Clinical Cancer Research. The IDSC has developed formal recommendations regarding aspects of phase II trial design which are the subject of frequent debate such as endpoints(response vs. progression free survival), randomization(single arm designs vs. randomization), inclusion of biomarkers, biomarker based patient enrichment strategies, and statistical design(e.g. two stage designs vs. multiple-group adaptive designs). While these recommendations in general encourage the use of progression-free survival as the primary endpoint, the use of randomization, the inclusion of biomarkers and the incorporation of newer designs, we acknowledge that objective response as an endpoint, and single arm designs, remain relevant in certain situations. The design of any clinical trial should always be carefully evaluated and justified based on the characteristic specific to the situation. PMID:20215557

Effects of phase II cardiac rehabilitation on job stress and health-related quality of life after return to work in middle-aged patients with acute myocardial infarction.

PubMed

Yonezawa, Ryusuke; Masuda, Takashi; Matsunaga, Atsuhiko; Takahashi, Yumi; Saitoh, Masakazu; Ishii, Akira; Kutsuna, Toshiki; Matsumoto, Takuya; Yamamoto, Kazuya; Aiba, Naoko; Hara, Miyako; Izumi, Tohru

2009-05-01

The aim of the present study was to clarify the effects of phase II cardiac rehabilitation (CR) on job stress and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) after return to work in middle-aged patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). A total of 109 middle-aged outpatients (57 +/- 7 years) who completed a phase I CR program after AMI were enrolled, 72 of whom participated in a phase II CR program for 5 months after hospital discharge (CR group) and 37 who discontinued the phase II CR program after the discharge (non-CR group). Job stress was assessed at 6 months after the AMI using a brief job stress questionnaire containing questions related to job stressors, worksite support, level of satisfaction with work or daily life, and psychological distress. HRQOL was assessed using the short-form 36-item health survey (SF-36) at hospital discharge and at 3 and 6 months after the AMI. There were no significant differences in clinical and occupational characteristics between the CR and non-CR groups. The CR group patients exhibited significantly better results for job stressors and psychological distress and higher SF-36 scores at 6 months after the AMI, as compared with those in the non-CR group. These findings suggest that discontinuing a phase II CR program induced chronic psychosocial stress after return to work in these middle-aged post-AMI patients.

The boron-to-beryllium ratio in halo stars - A signature of cosmic-ray nucleosynthesis in the early Galaxy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Walker, T. P.; Steigman, G.; Schramm, D. N.; Olive, K. A.; Fields, B.

1993-01-01

We discuss Galactic cosmic-ray (GCR) spallation production of Li, Be, and B in the early Galaxy with particular attention to the uncertainties in the predictions of this model. The observed correlation between the Be abundance and the metallicity in metal-poor Population II stars requires that Be was synthesized in the early Galaxy. We show that the observations and such Population II GCR synthesis of Be are quantitatively consistent with the big bang nucleosynthesis production of Li-7. We find that there is a nearly model independent lower bound to B/Be of about 7 for GCR synthesis. Recent measurements of B/Be about 10 in HD 140283 are in excellent agreement with the predictions of Population II GCR nucleosynthesis. Measurements of the boron abundance in additional metal-poor halo stars is a key diagnostic of the GCR spallation mechanism. We also show that Population II GCR synthesis can produce amounts of Li-6 which may be observed in the hottest halo stars.

Phase I-II study of multiple daily fractions for palliation of advanced head and neck malignancies.

PubMed

Paris, K J; Spanos, W J; Lindberg, R D; Jose, B; Albrink, F

1993-03-15

To assess palliation of advance head and neck malignancies with the use of rapid hyper fractionation studies similar to the RTOG 85-02. 37 patients with 39 lesions were entered into the non-randomized Phase I-II protocol, between 1984 and 1991. Previously untreated malignancies were present in 24 lesions, primary recurrent diseases in six patients, metastasis to the head and neck in five patients and skin primaries in the remaining two cases. At presentation 15 of 37 patients (or 17 of 39 lesions) were in operable due to poor medical status, eight patients were considered technically in operable due to extent of disease, 10 patients had distant metastasis and four patients refused surgery. The protocol uses twice a day fraction (370 cGy per fraction) for 2 consecutive days totalling 1,480 cGy per course. Three courses were given at 3-week intervals for a final tumor dose of 4,440 cGy in twelve fraction over 8-9 weeks. Eleven of 39 lesions had complete response; 19 lesions had partial response; 4 lesions had no response; 3 lesions progressed under treatment. Response could not be assessed in two patients. The average survival after completion of therapy was 4.5 months ranging from 2 weeks to 31 months. Palliation was achieved in 33 of 39 lesions. The acute reactions were minimal and no late or long term complications were noted. The absence of significant complications with reasonable response in the high rate of palliation suggests that this rapid hyper fractionation palliation study should be studied for further evaluation.

Phase II Trial of Induction Chemotherapy Followed by Surgery for Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Oral Tongue in Young Adults

PubMed Central

Kies, Merrill S.; Boatright, Dowin H.; Li, Guojun; Blumenschein, George; El-Naggar, Adel K.; Lewin, Jan S.; Steinhaus, Ganene; Sturgis, Erich M.

2013-01-01

Background We conducted a phase II clinical trial of induction chemotherapy followed by surgery ± radiotherapy for squamous cell carcinoma of the oral tongue (SCCOT) in young adults. Methods From September 2001 to October 2004, 23 patients aged 18–49 years with clinical T2-3N0-2M0 SCCOT and no prior radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or neck dissection underwent induction chemotherapy (paclitaxel, ifosfamide, and carboplatin) followed by glossectomy and neck dissection ± radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Results On final surgical pathology, 9 (39%) patients had a complete/major (2 complete) histologic response at the primary tumor site; 8 (35%) had no response or progression. Similarly, 9 (39%) patients had a complete response in the neck or remained node negative; 6 (26%) had an increase in nodal category. No treatment-associated deaths occurred, and toxicity was modest. At a median follow-up from the end of treatment of 52 months (minimum, 23 months), 10 (43%) patients developed recurrence, and all 10 died of cancer. Crude recurrence/cancer death rates were associated with ≤ a partial response at the tongue (P = .029), poor histologic differentiation (P = .012), and multiple adverse features on final surgical pathology (P = .040). Conclusions Response rates and overall survival with this induction chemotherapy regimen were limited, but complete/major response at the tongue was associated with excellent prognosis. Additionally, improved patient selection and predictive tumor biomarkers will be needed for induction chemotherapy to be routinely incorporated into the treatment of oral tongue cancer in young adults. PMID:22009800

Phase II trial of induction chemotherapy followed by surgery for squamous cell carcinoma of the oral tongue in young adults.

PubMed

Kies, Merrill S; Boatright, Dowin H; Li, Guojun; Blumenschein, George; El-Naggar, Adel K; Brandon Gunn, G; Lewin, Jan S; Steinhaus, Ganene D; Sturgis, Erich M

2012-09-01

We conducted a phase II clinical trial of induction chemotherapy followed by surgery ± radiotherapy for squamous cell carcinoma of the oral tongue (SCCOT) in young adults. From September 2001 to October 2004, 23 patients aged 18 to 49 years with clinical T2-3 N0-2 M0 SCCOT and no prior radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or neck dissection underwent induction chemotherapy (paclitaxel, ifosfamide, and carboplatin) followed by glossectomy and neck dissection ± radiotherapy and chemotherapy. On final surgical pathology, 9 patients (39%) had a complete/major (2 complete) histologic response at the primary tumor site; 8 patients (35%) had no response or progression. Similarly, 9 patients (39%) had a complete response in the neck or remained node negative; 6 patients (26%) had an increase in nodal category. No treatment-associated deaths occurred, and toxicity was modest. At a median follow-up from the end of treatment of 52 months (minimum, 23 months), 10 patients (43%) developed recurrence, and all 10 died of cancer. Crude recurrence/cancer death rates were associated with ≤ a partial response at the tongue (p = .029), poor histologic differentiation (p = .012), and multiple adverse features on final surgical pathology (p = .040). Response rates and overall survival with this induction chemotherapy regimen were limited, but complete/major response at the tongue was associated with excellent prognosis. Additionally, improved patient selection and predictive tumor biomarkers will be needed for induction chemotherapy to be routinely incorporated into the treatment of oral tongue cancer in young adults. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Squamous cell carcinoma of dogs and cats: an ideal test system for human head and neck PDT protocols

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lucroy, Michael D.

2006-02-01

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is ideally suited for the treatment of head and neck cancer (HNC) in humans. Developing useful PDT protocols for HNC is challenging due to the expense of Phase I and II clinical trials. Moreover, the often-poor predictive value of murine models means that photosensitizers may proceed far into development before problems are noted. Dogs and cats with spontaneous oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) share striking similarities with humans affected with oral SCC. These similarities include viral and environmental tobacco smoke as risk factors, location-dependent prognoses, and relative resistance to chemotherapy. The relatively large oral cancers encountered in veterinary patients allow for light and drug dosimetry that are directly applicable to humans. The irregular shape of oral SCC allows a rigorous evaluation of novel photodynamic therapy protocols under field conditions. Because spontaneous tumors in dogs and cats arise in an outbred animal population it is possible to observe an intact host response to PDT. The shorter lifespan of dogs and cats allows rapid accrual of endpoint data. External beam radiation therapy and chemotherapy are commonplace in veterinary medicine, making dogs and cats with spontaneous SCC a useful resource to study the interactions with PDT and other cancer treatment modalities. Our preliminary results demonstrate that PDT is well-tolerated by dogs with oral cancer, and a Phase II clinical trial of zinc-phthalocyanine-based photodynamic therapy is underway in dogs with oral SCC. The usefulness of 5-aminolevulinic acid methyl ester-based PDT is being investigated in cats with oral SCC.

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.

Elastic properties of crystalline and liquid gallium at high pressures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lyapin, A. G.; Gromnitskaya, E. L.; Yagafarov, O. F.; Stal'Gorova, O. V.; Brazhkin, V. V.

2008-11-01

The elastic properties of gallium, such as the bulk modulus B, the shear modulus G, and the Poisson’s ratio σ, are investigated and the relative change in the volume is determined in the stability regions of the Ga I, Ga II, and liquid phases at pressures of up to 1.7 GPa. The observed lines of the Ga I-Ga II phase transition and the melting curves of the Ga I and Ga II phases are in good agreement with the known phase diagram of gallium; in this case, the coordinates of the Ga I-Ga II-melt triple point are determined to be 1.24 ± 0.40 GPa and 277 ± 2 K. It is shown that the Ga I-Ga II phase transition is accompanied by a considerable decrease in the moduli B (by 30%) and G (by 55%) and an increase in the density by 5.7%. The Poisson’s ratio exhibits a jump from typically covalent values of approximately 0.22-0.25 to values of approximately 0.32-0.33, which are characteristic of metals. The observed behavior of the elastic characteristics is described in the framework of the model of the phase transition from a “quasi-molecular” (partially covalent) metal state to a “normal” metal state. An increase in the Poisson’s ratio in the Ga I phase from 0.22 to 0.25 with an increase in the pressure can be interpreted as a decrease in the degree of covalence, i.e., the degree of spatial anisotropy of the electron density along the bonds, whereas the large value of the pressure derivative of the bulk modulus (equal to approximately 8) observed up to the transition to the Ga II phase or the melt is associated not only with the quasicovalent nature of the Ga I phase but also with the structural features. In view of the presence of seven neighbors for each gallium atom in the Ga I phase, the gallium lattice can be treated as a structure intermediate between typical open-packed and close-packed structures. Premelting effects, such as a flattening of the isothermal dependence of the shear modulus G( p) with increasing pressure and an increase in the slope of the isobaric dependences G( T) with increasing temperature, are revealed in the vicinity of the melting curve. The bulk modulus of liquid gallium near the melting curve proves to be rather close to the corresponding values for the normal metal Ga II.

Development of CDMS-II Surface Event Rejection Techniques and Their Extensions to Lower Energy Thresholds

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

Hofer, Thomas James

2014-12-01

The CDMS-II phase of the Cryogenic Dark Matter Search, a dark matter direct-detection experiment, was operated at the Soudan Underground Laboratory from 2003 to 2008. The full payload consisted of 30 ZIP detectors, totaling approximately 1.1 kg of Si and 4.8 kg of Ge, operated at temperatures of 50 mK. The ZIP detectors read out both ionization and phonon pulses from scatters within the crystals; channel segmentation and analysis of pulse timing parameters allowed e ective ducialization of the crystal volumes and background rejection su cient to set world-leading limits at the times of their publications. A full re-analysis ofmore » the CDMS-II data was motivated by an improvement in the event reconstruction algorithms which improved the resolution of ionization energy and timing information. The Ge data were re-analyzed using three distinct background-rejection techniques; the Si data from runs 125 - 128 were analyzed for the rst time using the most successful of the techniques from the Ge re-analysis. The results of these analyses prompted a novel \\mid-threshold" analysis, wherein energy thresholds were lowered but background rejection using phonon timing information was still maintained. This technique proved to have signi cant discrimination power, maintaining adequate signal acceptance and minimizing background leakage. The primary background for CDMS-II analyses comes from surface events, whose poor ionization collection make them di cult to distinguish from true nuclear recoil events. The novel detector technology of SuperCDMS, the successor to CDMS-II, uses interleaved electrodes to achieve full ionization collection for events occurring at the top and bottom detector surfaces. This, along with dual-sided ionization and phonon instrumentation, allows for excellent ducialization and relegates the surface-event rejection techniques of CDMS-II to a secondary level of background discrimination. Current and future SuperCDMS results hold great promise for mid- to low-mass WIMP-search results.« less

Project NOAH: Regulating modern sea-level rise. Phase II: Jerusalem Underground

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Newman, Walter S.; Fairbridge, Rhodes W.

This proposal builds a high-speed inter-urban express between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, generates 1500 megawatts of hydroelectric energy, curtails littoral erosion, builds a port along the Israeli Mediterranean coast and demands peaceful cooperation on both sides of the Jordan River. Phase II represents a pilot project demonstrating the feasibility of continuing to regulate world sea-level by a new series of water regulation schemes. Phase I previously described all those projects already completed or underway which have inadvertently and/or unintentionally served the purpose of sea-level regulation. These forms of Phase I sea-level regulation include large and small reservoirs, irrigation projects, water infiltration schemes, farm ponds, and swimming and reflecting pools. All these water storage projects have already exercised a very appreciable brake on 20th century sea-level rise. Phase II outlines a high-visibility proposal which will serve to illustrate the viability of “Project NOAH”.

Characterization of pH dependent Mn(II) oxidation strategies and formation of a bixbyite-like phase by Mesorhizobium australicum T-G1

PubMed Central

Bohu, Tsing; Santelli, Cara M.; Akob, Denise M.; Neu, Thomas R.; Ciobota, Valerian; Rösch, Petra; Popp, Jürgen; Nietzsche, Sándor; Küsel, Kirsten

2015-01-01

Despite the ubiquity of Mn oxides in natural environments, there are only a few observations of biological Mn(II) oxidation at pH < 6. The lack of low pH Mn-oxidizing bacteria (MOB) isolates limits our understanding of how pH influences biological Mn(II) oxidation in extreme environments. Here, we report that a novel MOB isolate, Mesorhizobium australicum strain T-G1, isolated from an acidic and metalliferous uranium mining area, can oxidize Mn(II) at both acidic and neutral pH using different enzymatic pathways. X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy revealed that T-G1 initiated bixbyite-like Mn oxide formation at pH 5.5 which coincided with multi-copper oxidase expression from early exponential phase to late stationary phase. In contrast, reactive oxygen species (ROS), particularly superoxide, appeared to be more important for T-G1 mediated Mn(II) oxidation at neutral pH. ROS was produced in parallel with the occurrence of Mn(II) oxidation at pH 7.2 from early stationary phase. Solid phase Mn oxides did not precipitate, which is consistent with the presence of a high amount of H2O2 and lower activity of catalase in the liquid culture at pH 7.2. Our results show that M. australicum T-G1, an acid tolerant MOB, can initiate Mn(II) oxidation by varying its oxidation mechanisms depending on the pH and may play an important role in low pH manganese biogeochemical cycling. PMID:26236307

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...

77 FR 19660 - Combined Notice of Filings #1

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-02

.... Applicants: Goshen Phase II LLC, Ridgeline Alternative Energy, LLC. Description: Joint Application for Authorization under Section 203 of the Federal Power Act of Goshen Phase II and Ridgeline Alternative Energy... DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Combined Notice of Filings 1 Take notice...

Field testing of hand-held infrared thermography, phase II TPF-5(247) : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-05-01

This report is the second of two volumes that document results from the pooled fund study TPF-5 (247), Development of : Handheld Infrared Thermography, Phase II. The interim report (volume I) studied the implementation of handheld thermography : by p...

Reassessing Phase II Heart Failure Clinical Trials: Consensus Recommendations

PubMed Central

Butler, Javed; Hamo, Carine E.; Udelson, James E.; O’Connor, Christopher; Sabbah, Hani N.; Metra, Marco; Shah, Sanjiv J.; Kitzman, Dalane W.; Teerlink, John; Bernstein, Harold S.; Brooks, Gabriel; Depre, Christophe; DeSouza, Mary M.; Dinh, Wilfried; Donovan, Mark; Frische-Danielson, Regina; Frost, Robert J.; Garza, Dahlia; Gohring, Udo-Michael; Hellawell, Jennifer; Hsia, Judith; Ishihara, Shiro; Kay-Mugford, Patricia; Koglin, Joerg; Kozinn, Marc; Larson, Christopher J.; Mayo, Martha; Gan, Li-Ming; Mugnier, Pierrre; Mushonga, Sekayi; Roessig, Lothar; Russo, Cesare; Salsali, Afshin; Satler, Carol; Shi, Victor; Ticho, Barry; van der Laan, Michael; Yancy, Clyde; Stockbridge, Norman; Gheorghiade, Mihai

2017-01-01

The increasing burden and the continued suboptimal outcomes for patients with heart failure underlines the importance of continued research to develop novel therapeutics for this disorder. This can only be accomplished with successful translation of basic science discoveries into direct human application through effective clinical trial design and execution that results in a substantially improved clinical course and outcomes. In this respect, phase II clinical trials play a pivotal role in determining which of the multitude of potential basic science discoveries should move to the large and expansive registration trials in humans. A critical examination of the phase II trials in heart failure reveals multiple shortcomings in their concept, design, execution, and interpretation. To further a dialogue regarding the challenges and potential for improvement and the role of phase II trials in patients with heart failure, the Food and Drug Administration facilitated a meeting on October 17th 2016 represented by clinicians, researchers, industry members, and regulators. This document summarizes the discussion from this meeting and provides key recommendations for future directions. PMID:28356300

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.

Soluble Mesothelin Related Peptide (SMRP) and Osteopontin (OPN) as Early Detection Markers for Malignant Mesothelioma (MM) — EDRN Public Portal

Cancer.gov

Phase I: - Identification and assemblage of representative cohorts of individuals with MM, no malignancies but increased risk for MM due to asbestos exposure, and (optionally) lung malignancies other than MM Phase II (A) - Determine the sensitivity and specificity of SMRP and OPN in distinguishing individuals with a clinical diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma from individuals who are asbestos-exposed but without a clinical diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma. Phase II (B) – Determine the comparability of analyte values across contributing centers and determine covariates that influence analyte levels Phase II (C) – Determine the sensitivity and specificity of SMRP and OPN, alone and in combination, in distinguishing individuals with MM from those without. Phase III. Determine the sensitivity and specificity of SMRP and OPN in distinguishing individuals who would subsequently develop malignant mesothelioma from matched individuals who did not subsequently develop malignant mesothelioma. Phase IV. Determine the sensitivity and specificity of SMRP and OPN in other populations of interest.

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.

Nitrous oxide emissions in a membrane bioreactor treating saline wastewater contaminated by hydrocarbons.

PubMed

Mannina, Giorgio; Cosenza, Alida; Di Trapani, Daniele; Laudicina, Vito Armando; Morici, Claudia; Ødegaard, Hallvard

2016-11-01

The joint effect of wastewater salinity and hydrocarbons on nitrous oxide emission was investigated. The membrane bioreactor pilot plant was operated with two phases: i. biomass acclimation by increasing salinity from 10gNaClL(-1) to 20gNaClL(-1) (Phase I); ii. hydrocarbons dosing at 20mgL(-1) with a constant salt concentration of 20gNaClL(-1) (Phase II). The Phase I revealed a relationship between nitrous oxide emissions and salinity. During the end of the Phase I, the activity of nitrifiers started to recover, indicating a partial acclimatization. During the Phase II, the hydrocarbon shock induced a temporary inhibition of the biomass with the suppression of nitrous oxide emissions. The results revealed that the oxic tank was the major source of nitrous oxide emission, likely due to the gas stripping by aeration. The joint effect of salinity and hydrocarbons was found to be crucial for the production of nitrous oxide. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

In Vivo Formation of Cubic Phase in Situ after Oral Administration of Cubic Phase Precursor Formulation Provides Long Duration Gastric Retention and Absorption for Poorly Water-Soluble Drugs.

PubMed

Pham, Anna C; Hong, Linda; Montagnat, Oliver; Nowell, Cameron J; Nguyen, Tri-Hung; Boyd, Ben J

2016-01-04

Lipid-based liquid crystalline systems based on the combination of digestible and nondigestible lipids have been proposed as potential sustained release delivery systems for oral delivery of poorly water-soluble drugs. The potential for cubic phase liquid crystal formation to induce dramatically extended gastric retention in vivo has been shown previously to strongly influence the resulting pharmacokinetics of incorporated drug. In vitro studies showing the in situ formation of cubic phase from a disordered precursor comprising a mixture of digestible and nondigestible lipids under enzymatic digestion have also recently been reported. Combining both concepts, here we show the potential for such systems to form in vivo, increasing gastric retention, and providing a sustained release effect for a model poorly water-soluble drug cinnarizine. A mixture of phytantriol and tributyrin at an 85:15 mass ratio, shown previously to form cubic phase under the influence of digestion, induced a similar pharmacokinetic profile to that in the absence of tributyrin, but completely different from tributyrin alone. The gastric retention of the formulation, assessed using micro-X-ray CT imaging, was also consistent with the pharmacokinetic behavior, where phytantriol alone and with 15% tributyrin was greater than that of tributyrin in the absence of phytantriol. Thus, the concept of precursor lipid systems that form cubic phase in situ during digestion in vivo has been demonstrated and opens new opportunities for sustained release of poorly water-soluble drugs.

An Evaluation of Culture Results during Treatment for Tuberculosis as Surrogate Endpoints for Treatment Failure and Relapse

PubMed Central

Phillips, Patrick P. J.; Fielding, Katherine; Nunn, Andrew J.

2013-01-01

It is widely acknowledged that new regimens are urgently needed for the treatment of tuberculosis. The primary endpoint in the Phase III trials is a composite outcome of failure at the end of treatment or relapse after stopping treatment. Such trials are usually both long and expensive. Valid surrogate endpoints measured during or at the end of treatment could dramatically reduce both the time and cost of assessing the effectiveness of new regimens. The objective of this study was to evaluate sputum culture results on solid media during treatment as surrogate endpoints for poor outcome. Data were obtained from twelve randomised controlled trials conducted by the British Medical Research Council in the 1970s and 80s in East Africa and East Asia, consisting of 6974 participants and 49 different treatment regimens. The month two culture result was shown to be a poor surrogate in East Africa but a good surrogate in Hong Kong. In contrast, the month three culture was a good surrogate in trials conducted in East Africa but not in Hong Kong. As well as differences in location, ethnicity and probable strain of Mycobacteria tuberculosis, Hong Kong trials more often evaluated regimens with rifampicin throughout and intermittent regimens, and patients in East African trials more often presented with extensive cavitation and were slower to convert to culture negative during treatment. An endpoint that is a summary measure of the longitudinal profile of culture results over time or that is able to detect the presence of M. tuberculosis later in treatment is more likely to be a better endpoint for a phase II trial than a culture result at a single time point and may prove to be an acceptable surrogate. More data are needed before any endpoint can be used as a surrogate in a confirmatory phase III trial. PMID:23667677

An evaluation of culture results during treatment for tuberculosis as surrogate endpoints for treatment failure and relapse.

PubMed

Phillips, Patrick P J; Fielding, Katherine; Nunn, Andrew J

2013-01-01

It is widely acknowledged that new regimens are urgently needed for the treatment of tuberculosis. The primary endpoint in the Phase III trials is a composite outcome of failure at the end of treatment or relapse after stopping treatment. Such trials are usually both long and expensive. Valid surrogate endpoints measured during or at the end of treatment could dramatically reduce both the time and cost of assessing the effectiveness of new regimens. The objective of this study was to evaluate sputum culture results on solid media during treatment as surrogate endpoints for poor outcome. Data were obtained from twelve randomised controlled trials conducted by the British Medical Research Council in the 1970s and 80s in East Africa and East Asia, consisting of 6974 participants and 49 different treatment regimens. The month two culture result was shown to be a poor surrogate in East Africa but a good surrogate in Hong Kong. In contrast, the month three culture was a good surrogate in trials conducted in East Africa but not in Hong Kong. As well as differences in location, ethnicity and probable strain of Mycobacteria tuberculosis, Hong Kong trials more often evaluated regimens with rifampicin throughout and intermittent regimens, and patients in East African trials more often presented with extensive cavitation and were slower to convert to culture negative during treatment. An endpoint that is a summary measure of the longitudinal profile of culture results over time or that is able to detect the presence of M. tuberculosis later in treatment is more likely to be a better endpoint for a phase II trial than a culture result at a single time point and may prove to be an acceptable surrogate. More data are needed before any endpoint can be used as a surrogate in a confirmatory phase III trial.

Changes in the renal handling of urea in sheep on a low protein diet exposed to saline drinking water.

PubMed

Meintjes, R A; Engelbrecht, H

2004-09-01

Previous trials have demonstrated that sheep on a low protein diet and free access to water, and sheep dosed with boluses of NaCl intraruminally also with free access to water, showed decreases in urea loss via the urine compared to control animals. We monitored urea excretion in sheep on a relatively poor protein diet when they were exposed to saline drinking water, i.e. they were unable to vary their intake of NaCl:water. Sheep on isotonic saline drinking water (phase 3) excreted significantly more urea via the urine (284 mM/day) compared to phase 1 when they were on non-saline drinking water (urea excretion = 230 mM/day) and phase 2 when they were on half isotonic saline drinking water (urea excretion = 244 mM/day). This finding was explained by the high glomerular filtration rate (GFR) 91.9 l/day, compared to 82.4 l/day (phase 1) and 77.9 l/day (phase 2), together with a significantly raised fractional excretion of urea (FEurea) (51.1 %) during this phase, and was in spite of the significantly lower plasma concentrations of urea in phase 3 compared to phase 1. The FEurea probably results from the osmotic diuresis caused by the salt. There were indications of a raised plasma antidiuretic hormone (ADH) concentration and this would have opposed urea loss, as ADH promotes urea reabsorption. However, this ADH effect was probably counteracted to some extent by a low plasma angiotensin II concentration, for which again there were indications, inhibiting urea reabsorption during the phases of salt loading. As atrial natriuretic peptide both increases GFR and decrease sodium reabsorption from the tubule, it was probably instrumental in causing the increase in GFR and the increase in the fractional excretion of sodium (FE(Na)).

Role of Insulinlike Growth Factor 1 in Fetal Development and in the Early Postnatal Life of Premature Infants

PubMed Central

Hellström, Ann; Ley, David; Hansen-Pupp, Ingrid; Hallberg, Boubou; Ramenghi, Luca A.; Löfqvist, Chatarina; Smith, Lois E. H.; Hård, Anna-Lena

2018-01-01

The neonatal period of very preterm infants is often characterized by a difficult adjustment to extrauterine life, with an inadequate nutrient supply and insufficient levels of growth factors, resulting in poor growth and a high morbidity rate. Long-term multisystem complications include cognitive, behavioral, and motor dysfunction as a result of brain damage as well as visual and hearing deficits and metabolic disorders that persist into adulthood. Insulinlike growth factor 1 (IGF-1) is a major regulator of fetal growth and development of most organs especially the central nervous system including the retina. Glucose metabolism in the developing brain is controlled by IGF-1 which also stimulates differentiation and prevents apoptosis. Serum concentrations of IGF-1 decrease to very low levels after very preterm birth and remain low for most of the perinatal development. Strong correlations have been found between low neonatal serum concentrations of IGF-1 and poor brain and retinal growth as well as poor general growth with multiorgan morbidities, such as intraventricular hemorrhage, retinopathy of prematurity, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, and necrotizing enterocolitis. Experimental and clinical studies indicate that early supplementation with IGF-1 can improve growth in catabolic states and reduce brain injury after hypoxic/ischemic events. A multicenter phase II study is currently underway to determine whether intravenous replacement of human recombinant IGF-1 up to normal intrauterine serum concentrations can improve growth and development and reduce prematurity-associated morbidities. PMID:27603537

Plasma Proteins Modified by Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs) Reveal Site-specific Susceptibilities to Glycemic Control in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes.

PubMed

Greifenhagen, Uta; Frolov, Andrej; Blüher, Matthias; Hoffmann, Ralf

2016-04-29

Protein glycation refers to the reversible reaction between aldoses (or ketoses) and amino groups yielding relatively stable Amadori (or Heyns) products. Consecutive oxidative cleavage reactions of these products or the reaction of amino groups with other reactive substances (e.g. α-dicarbonyls) yield advanced glycation end products (AGEs) that can alter the structures and functions of proteins. AGEs have been identified in all organisms, and their contents appear to rise with some diseases, such as diabetes and obesity. Here, we report a pilot study using highly sensitive and specific proteomics approach to identify and quantify AGE modification sites in plasma proteins by reversed phase HPLC mass spectrometry in tryptic plasma digests. In total, 19 AGE modification sites corresponding to 11 proteins were identified in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus under poor glycemic control. The modification degrees of 15 modification sites did not differ among cohorts of normoglycemic lean or obese and type 2 diabetes mellitus patients under good and poor glycemic control. The contents of two amide-AGEs in human serum albumin and apolipoprotein A-II were significantly higher in patients with poor glycemic control, although the plasma levels of both proteins were similar among all plasma samples. These two modification sites might be useful to predict long term, AGE-related complications in diabetic patients, such as impaired vision, increased arterial stiffness, or decreased kidney function. © 2016 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

Solid self-nanoemulsifying delivery systems as a platform technology for formulation of poorly soluble drugs.

PubMed

Bansal, Tripta; Mustafa, Gulam; Khan, Zeenat I; Ahmad, Farhaan J; Khar, Roop K; Talegaonkar, Sushama

2008-01-01

New drug discovery programs produce molecules with poor physico-chemical properties, making delivery of these molecules at the right proportion into the body a big challenge to the formulation scientist. The various options available to overcome the hurdle include solvent precipitation, micronisation/nanonization using high-pressure homogenization or jet milling, salt formation, use of microspheres, solid dispersions, cogrinding, complexation, and many others. Self-nanoemulsifying systems (SNES) form one of the most popular and commercially viable approaches for delivery of poorly soluble drugs exhibiting dissolution rate limited absorption, especially those belonging to the Biopharmaceutics Classification System II/IV. SNES are essentially an isotropic blend of oils, surfactants, and/or cosolvents that emulsify spontaneously to produce oil in water nanoemulsion when introduced into aqueous phase under gentle agitation. Conventional SNES consist of liquid forms filled in hard or soft gelatin capsules, which are least preferred due to leaching and leakage phenomenon, interaction with capsule shell components, handling difficulties, machinability, and stability problems. Solidification of these liquid systems to yield solid self-nanoemulsifying systems (SSNES) offer a possible solution to the mentioned complications, and that is why these systems have attracted wide attention. Other than the advantages and wide application of SSNEDS, the present paper focuses on formulation considerations, selection, and function of solidifying excipients; techniques of preparation; and case studies of drugs selected from different therapeutic categories. Developments in the techniques for in vitro evaluation of SSNEDS have also been discussed.

The history of couple therapy: a millennial review.

PubMed

Gurman, Alan S; Fraenkel, Peter

2002-01-01

In this article, we review the major conceptual and clinical influences and trends in the history of couple therapy to date, and also chronicle the history of research on couple therapy. The evolving patterns in theory and practice are reviewed as having progressed through four distinctive phases: Phase I--Atheoretical Marriage Counseling Formation (1930-1963); Phase II--Psychoanalytic Experimentation (1931-1966); Phase III--Family Therapy Incorporation (1963-1985); and Phase IV--Refinement, Extension, Diversification, and Integration (1986-present). The history of research in the field is described as having passed through three phases: Phase I--A Technique in Search of Some Data (1930-1974), Phase II--Irrational(?) Exuberance (1975-1992), and Phase III--Caution and Extension (1993-present). The article concludes with the identification of Four Great Historical Ironies in the History of Couple Therapy.

Assessing children's inference generation: what do tests of reading comprehension measure?

PubMed

Bowyer-Crane, Claudine; Snowling, Margaret J

2005-06-01

Previous research suggests that children with specific comprehension difficulties have problems with the generation of inferences. This raises important questions as to whether poor comprehenders have poor comprehension skills generally, or whether their problems are confined to specific inference types. The main aims of the study were (a) using two commonly used tests of reading comprehension to classify the questions requiring the generation of inferences, and (b) to investigate the relative performance of skilled and less-skilled comprehenders on questions tapping different inference types. The performance of 10 poor comprehenders (mean age 110.06 months) was compared with the performance of 10 normal readers (mean age 112.78 months) on two tests of reading comprehension. A qualitative analysis of the NARA II (form 1) and the WORD comprehension subtest was carried out. Participants were then administered the NARA II, WORD comprehension subtest and a test of non-word reading. The NARA II was heavily reliant on the generation of knowledge-based inferences, while the WORD comprehension subtest was biased towards the retention of literal information. Children identified by the NARA II as having comprehension difficulties performed in the normal range on the WORD comprehension subtests. Further, children with comprehension difficulties performed poorly on questions requiring the generation of knowledge-based and elaborative inferences. However, they were able to answer questions requiring attention to literal information or use of cohesive devices at a level comparable to normal readers. Different reading tests tap different types of inferencing skills. Lessskilled comprehenders have particular difficulty applying real-world knowledge to a text during reading, and this has implications for the formulation of effective intervention strategies.

NOx Emissions Characteristics and Correlation Equations of Two P and W's Axially Staged Sector Combustors Developed Under NASA Environmentally Responsible Aviation (ERA) Project

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

He, Zhuohui J.

2017-01-01

Two P&W (Pratt & Whitney)'s axially staged sector combustors have been developed under NASA's Environmentally Responsible Aviation (ERA) project. One combustor was developed under ERA Phase I, and the other was developed under ERA Phase II. Nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions characteristics and correlation equations for these two sector combustors are reported in this article. The Phase I design was to optimize the NOx emissions reduction potential, while the Phase II design was more practical and robust. Multiple injection points and fuel staging strategies are used in the combustor design. Pilot-stage injectors are located on the front dome plate of the combustor, and main-stage injectors are positioned on the top and bottom (Phase I) or on the top only (Phase II) of the combustor liners downstream. Low power configuration uses only pilot-stage injectors. Main-stage injectors are added to high power configuration to help distribute fuel more evenly and achieve lean burn throughout the combustor yielding very low NOx emissions. The ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) landing-takeoff NOx emissions are verified to be 88 percent (Phase I) and 76 percent (Phase II) under the ICAO CAEP/6 (Committee on Aviation Environmental Protection 6th Meeting) standard, exceeding the ERA project goal of 75 percent reduction, and the combustors proved to have stable combustion with room to maneuver on fuel flow splits for operability.

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

Nevada Test and Training Range Depleted Uranium Target Disposal Environmental Assessment

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-03-01

to establish the probability and scope of such transport. Long-Term Fate of Depleted Uranium at Aberdeen and Yuma Proving Grounds Phase II: Human...1990. Long-Term Fate of Depleted Uranium at Aberdeen and Yuma Proving Grounds Final Report, Phase 1: Geochemical Transport and Modeling. Los...of Depleted Uranium at Aberdeen and Yuma Proving Grounds , Phase II: Human Health and Ecological Risk Assessments. Los Alamos National Laboratory

Hexafluorobenzene under Extreme Conditions.

PubMed

Pravica, Michael; Sneed, Daniel; Wang, Yonggang; Smith, Quinlan; White, Melanie

2016-03-17

We report the results from three high pressure experiments on hexafluorobenzene (C6F6). In the first experiment, Raman spectra were recorded up to 34.4 GPa. A phase transition from I → II was observed near 2 GPa. Near 8.8 GPa, a phase transition to an unreported phase (III) commenced. Above 20.6 GPa, yet another phase was observed (IV). Pressure cycling was employed to determine that, below 25.6 GPa, all pressure-induced alterations were reversible. However, at pressures above 20 GPa, dramatic spectral changes and broadening were observed at 25.6 and 34.4 GPa. The sample irreversibly changed into a soft solid with waxlike consistency when pressure was reduced to ambient and was recoverable. In the second experiment, IR spectra were collected up to 14.6 GPa. The phase transition (II → III) near 8.8 GPa was confirmed. An angular dispersive X-ray diffraction experiment was conducted to 25.6 GPa. Phase transitions above 1.4 GPa (I → II), above 5.5 GPa (II → III), above 10 GPa (III → IV), and above 15.5 GPa (IV → V) were observed. Near 25.6 GPa, long-range crystalline order was lost as the X-ray diffraction spectrum presented evidence of an amorphous solid.

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.

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

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.

Synergism between fentanyl and tramadol in tonic inflammatory pain: the orofacial formalin test.

PubMed

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

2012-06-01

Opioids have been used for long time to management of pain, the coadministration of two opioids may induce synergism. The present study was conducted to determine the antinociceptive interaction between the dual mechanism of action of tramadol compared to the main of fentanyl antinociception in the orofacial formalin which represents a model of persistent cutaneous nociception in the region innervated by the trigeminal nerve. The i.p. administration of tramadol and fentanyl induced a dose-dependent antinociception with an ED(50) of 2.97 ± 0.32 mg/kg for phase I and 1.79 ± 0.30 mg/kg for phase II and 0.062 ± 0.0040 mg/kg in phase I and 0.041 ± 0.0039 mg/kg in phase II, respectively. The coadministration of fentanyl with tramadol induced synergism in both phases of the test with an interaction index of 0.343 and 0.163 for phase I and phase II, respectively. This finding could be explained by the more complex pharmacology of tramadol compared to fentanyl.

The phase diagram of water at negative pressures: virtual ices.

PubMed

Conde, M M; Vega, C; Tribello, G A; Slater, B

2009-07-21

The phase diagram of water at negative pressures as obtained from computer simulations for two models of water, TIP4P/2005 and TIP5P is presented. Several solid structures with lower densities than ice Ih, so-called virtual ices, were considered as possible candidates to occupy the negative pressure region of the phase diagram of water. In particular the empty hydrate structures sI, sII, and sH and another, recently proposed, low-density ice structure. The relative stabilities of these structures at 0 K was determined using empirical water potentials and density functional theory calculations. By performing free energy calculations and Gibbs-Duhem integration the phase diagram of TIP4P/2005 was determined at negative pressures. The empty hydrates sII and sH appear to be the stable solid phases of water at negative pressures. The phase boundary between ice Ih and sII clathrate occurs at moderate negative pressures, while at large negative pressures sH becomes the most stable phase. This behavior is in reasonable agreement with what is observed in density functional theory calculations.

Treatment of a Patient with Borderline Personality Disorder Based on Phase-Oriented Model of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): A Case Report.

PubMed

Momeni Safarabad, Nahid; Asgharnejad Farid, Ali-Asghar; Gharraee, Banafsheh; Habibi, Mojtaba

2018-01-01

Objective: This study aimed at reporting the effect of the 3-phase model of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing in the treatment of a patient with borderline personality disorder. Method : A 33-year-old female, who met the DSM-IV-TR criteria for borderline personality disorder, received a 20-session therapy based on the 3-phase model of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing. Borderline Personality Disorder Checklist (BPD-Checklist), Dissociative Experience Scale (DES-II), Beck Depression Inventory-II-second edition (BDI-II), and Anxiety Inventory (BAI) were filled out by the patient at all treatment phases and at the 3- month follow- up. Results: According to the obtained results, the patient's pretest scores in all research tools were 161, 44, 37, and 38 for BPD-Checklist, DES-II, BDI-II, and BAI, respectively. After treatment, these scores decreased significantly (69, 14, 6 and 10 respectively). So, the patient exhibited improvement in borderline personality disorder, dissociative, depression and anxiety symptoms, which were maintained after the 3-month follow-up. Conclusion: The results supported the positive effect of phasic model of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing on borderline personality disorder.

Structural stability of methane hydrate at high pressures

USGS Publications Warehouse

Shu, J.; Chen, X.; Chou, I-Ming; Yang, W.; Hu, Jiawen; Hemley, R.J.; Mao, Ho-kwang

2011-01-01

The structural stability of methane hydrate under pressure at room temperature was examined by both in-situ single-crystal and powder X-ray diffraction techniques on samples with structure types I, II, and H in diamond-anvil cells. The diffraction data for types II (sII) and H (sH) were refined to the known structures with space groups Fd3m and P63/mmc, respectively. Upon compression, sI methane hydrate transforms to the sII phase at 120 MPa, and then to the sH phase at 600 MPa. The sII methane hydrate was found to coexist locally with sI phase up to 500 MPa and with sH phase up to 600 MPa. The pure sH structure was found to be stable between 600 and 900 MPa. Methane hydrate decomposes at pressures above 3 GPa to form methane with the orientationally disordered Fm3m structure and ice VII (Pn3m). The results highlight the role of guest (CH4)-host (H2O) interactions in the stabilization of the hydrate structures under pressure.

Treatment of a Patient with Borderline Personality Disorder Based on Phase-Oriented Model of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): A Case Report

PubMed Central

Momeni Safarabad, Nahid; Asgharnejad Farid, Ali-Asghar; Gharraee, Banafsheh; Habibi, Mojtaba

2018-01-01

Objective: This study aimed at reporting the effect of the 3-phase model of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing in the treatment of a patient with borderline personality disorder. Method : A 33-year-old female, who met the DSM-IV-TR criteria for borderline personality disorder, received a 20-session therapy based on the 3-phase model of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing. Borderline Personality Disorder Checklist (BPD-Checklist), Dissociative Experience Scale (DES-II), Beck Depression Inventory-II-second edition (BDI-II), and Anxiety Inventory (BAI) were filled out by the patient at all treatment phases and at the 3- month follow- up. Results: According to the obtained results, the patient’s pretest scores in all research tools were 161, 44, 37, and 38 for BPD-Checklist, DES-II, BDI-II, and BAI, respectively. After treatment, these scores decreased significantly (69, 14, 6 and 10 respectively). So, the patient exhibited improvement in borderline personality disorder, dissociative, depression and anxiety symptoms, which were maintained after the 3-month follow-up. Conclusion: The results supported the positive effect of phasic model of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing on borderline personality disorder. PMID:29892320

New lipid family that forms inverted cubic phases in equilibrium with excess water: molecular structure-aqueous phase structure relationship for lipids with 5,9,13,17-tetramethyloctadecyl and 5,9,13,17-tetramethyloctadecanoyl chains.

PubMed

Yamashita, Jun; Shiono, Manzo; Hato, Masakatsu

2008-10-02

With a view to discovering a new family of lipids that form inverted cubic phases, the aqueous phase behavior of a series of lipids with isoprenoid-type hydrophobic chains has been examined over a temperature range from -40 to 65 degrees C by using optical microscopy, DSC (differential scanning calorimetry), and SAXS (small-angle X-ray scattering) techniques. The lipids examined are those with 5,9,13,17-tetramethyloctadecyl and 5,9,13,17-tetramethyloctadecanoyl chains linked to a series of headgroups, that is, erythritol, pentaerythritol, xylose, and glucose. All of the lipid/water systems displayed a "water + liquid crystalline phase" two-phase coexistence state when sufficiently diluted. The aqueous phase structures of the most diluted liquid crystalline phases in equilibrium with excess water depend both on the lipid molecular structure and on the temperature. Given an isoprenoid chain, the preferred phase consistently follows a phase sequence of an H II (an inverted hexagonal phase) to a Q II (an inverted bicontinuous cubic phase) to an L alpha (a lamellar phase) as A* (cross-section area of the headgroup) increases. For a given lipid/water system, the phase sequence observed as the temperature increases is L alpha to Q II to H II. The present study allowed us to find four cubic phase-forming lipid species, PEOC 18+4 [mono- O-(5,9,13,17-tetramethyloctadecyl)pentaerythritol], beta-XylOC 18+4 [1- O-(5,9,13,17-tetramethyloctadecyl)-beta- d-xylopyranoside], EROCOC 17+4 [1- O-(5,9,13,17-tetramethyloctadecanoyl)erythritol], and PEOCOC 17+4 [mono- O-(5,9,13,17-tetramethyloctadecanoyl)pentaerythritol]. The values of T K (hydrated solid-liquid crystalline phase transition temperature) of the cubic phase-forming lipids are all below 0 degrees C. Quantitative analyses of the lipid molecular structure-aqueous phase structure relationship in terms of the experimentally evaluated "surfactant parameter" allow us to rationally select an optimum combination of hydrophilic/hydrophobic part of a lipid molecule that will form a desired phase in a desired temperature range.

Wind tunnel wall effects in a linear oscillating cascade

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Buffum, Daniel H.; Fleeter, Sanford

1991-01-01

Experiments in a linear oscillating cascade reveal that the wind tunnel walls enclosing the airfoils have, in some cases, a detrimental effect on the oscillating cascade aerodynamics. In a subsonic flow field, biconvex airfoils are driven simultaneously in harmonic, torsion-mode oscillations for a range of interblade phase angle values. It is found that the cascade dynamic periodicity - the airfoil to airfoil variation in unsteady surface pressure - is good for some values of interblade phase angle but poor for others. Correlation of the unsteady pressure data with oscillating flat plate cascade predictions is generally good for conditions where the periodicity is good and poor where the periodicity is poor. Calculations based upon linearized unsteady aerodynamic theory indicate that pressure waves reflected from the wind tunnel walls are responsible for the cases where there is poor periodicity and poor correlation with the predictions.

Assessing Hospital Disaster Readiness Over Time at the US Department of Veterans Affairs.

PubMed

Der-Martirosian, Claudia; Radcliff, Tiffany A; Gable, Alicia R; Riopelle, Deborah; Hagigi, Farhad A; Brewster, Pete; Dobalian, Aram

2017-02-01

Introduction There have been numerous initiatives by government and private organizations to help hospitals become better prepared for major disasters and public health emergencies. This study reports on efforts by the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Veterans Health Administration, Office of Emergency Management's (OEM) Comprehensive Emergency Management Program (CEMP) to assess the readiness of VA Medical Centers (VAMCs) across the nation. Hypothesis/Problem This study conducts descriptive analyses of preparedness assessments of VAMCs and examines change in hospital readiness over time. To assess change, quantitative analyses of data from two phases of preparedness assessments (Phase I: 2008-2010; Phase II: 2011-2013) at 137 VAMCs were conducted using 61 unique capabilities assessed during the two phases. The initial five-point Likert-like scale used to rate each capability was collapsed into a dichotomous variable: "not-developed=0" versus "developed=1." To describe changes in preparedness over time, four new categories were created from the Phase I and Phase II dichotomous variables: (1) rated developed in both phases; (2) rated not-developed in Phase I but rated developed in Phase II; (3) rated not-developed in both phases; and (4) rated developed in Phase I but rated not- developed in Phase II. From a total of 61 unique emergency preparedness capabilities, 33 items achieved the desired outcome - they were rated either "developed in both phases" or "became developed" in Phase II for at least 80% of VAMCs. For 14 items, 70%-80% of VAMCs achieved the desired outcome. The remaining 14 items were identified as "low-performing" capabilities, defined as less than 70% of VAMCs achieved the desired outcome. Measuring emergency management capabilities is a necessary first step to improving those capabilities. Furthermore, assessing hospital readiness over time and creating robust hospital readiness assessment tools can help hospitals make informed decisions regarding allocation of resources to ensure patient safety, provide timely access to high-quality patient care, and identify best practices in emergency management during and after disasters. Moreover, with some minor modifications, this comprehensive, all-hazards-based, hospital preparedness assessment tool could be adapted for use beyond the VA. Der-Martirosian C , Radcliff TA , Gable AR , Riopelle D , Hagigi FA , Brewster P , Dobalian A . Assessing hospital disaster readiness over time at the US Department of Veterans Affairs. Prehsop Disaster Med. 2017;32(1):46-57.

Accelerating clinical development of HIV vaccine strategies: methodological challenges and considerations in constructing an optimised multi-arm phase I/II trial design.

PubMed

Richert, Laura; Doussau, Adélaïde; Lelièvre, Jean-Daniel; Arnold, Vincent; Rieux, Véronique; Bouakane, Amel; Lévy, Yves; Chêne, Geneviève; Thiébaut, Rodolphe

2014-02-26

Many candidate vaccine strategies against human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection are under study, but their clinical development is lengthy and iterative. To accelerate HIV vaccine development optimised trial designs are needed. We propose a randomised multi-arm phase I/II design for early stage development of several vaccine strategies, aiming at rapidly discarding those that are unsafe or non-immunogenic. We explored early stage designs to evaluate both the safety and the immunogenicity of four heterologous prime-boost HIV vaccine strategies in parallel. One of the vaccines used as a prime and boost in the different strategies (vaccine 1) has yet to be tested in humans, thus requiring a phase I safety evaluation. However, its toxicity risk is considered minimal based on data from similar vaccines. We newly adapted a randomised phase II trial by integrating an early safety decision rule, emulating that of a phase I study. We evaluated the operating characteristics of the proposed design in simulation studies with either a fixed-sample frequentist or a continuous Bayesian safety decision rule and projected timelines for the trial. We propose a randomised four-arm phase I/II design with two independent binary endpoints for safety and immunogenicity. Immunogenicity evaluation at trial end is based on a single-stage Fleming design per arm, comparing the observed proportion of responders in an immunogenicity screening assay to an unacceptably low proportion, without direct comparisons between arms. Randomisation limits heterogeneity in volunteer characteristics between arms. To avoid exposure of additional participants to an unsafe vaccine during the vaccine boost phase, an early safety decision rule is imposed on the arm starting with vaccine 1 injections. In simulations of the design with either decision rule, the risks of erroneous conclusions were controlled <15%. Flexibility in trial conduct is greater with the continuous Bayesian rule. A 12-month gain in timelines is expected by this optimised design. Other existing designs such as bivariate or seamless phase I/II designs did not offer a clear-cut alternative. By combining phase I and phase II evaluations in a multi-arm trial, the proposed optimised design allows for accelerating early stage clinical development of HIV vaccine strategies.

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...

Medulloblastoma in children and adolescents: a systematic review of contemporary phase I and II clinical trials and biology update.

PubMed

Bautista, Francisco; Fioravantti, Victoria; de Rojas, Teresa; Carceller, Fernando; Madero, Luis; Lassaletta, Alvaro; Moreno, Lucas

2017-11-01

Survival rates for patients with medulloblastoma have improved in the last decades but for those who relapse outcome is dismal and new approaches are needed. Emerging drugs have been tested in the last two decades within the context of phase I/II trials. In parallel, advances in genetic profiling have permitted to identify key molecular alterations for which new strategies are being developed. We performed a systematic review focused on the design and outcome of early-phase trials evaluating new agents in patients with relapsed medulloblastoma. PubMed, clinicaltrials.gov, and references from selected studies were screened to identify phase I/II studies with reported results between 2000 and 2015 including patients with medulloblastoma aged <18 years. A total of 718 studies were reviewed and 78 satisfied eligibility criteria. Of those, 69% were phase I; 31% phase II. Half evaluated conventional chemotherapeutics and 35% targeted agents. Overall, 662 patients with medulloblastoma/primitive neuroectodermal tumors were included. The study designs and the response assessments were heterogeneous, limiting the comparisons among trials and the correct identification of active drugs. Median (range) objective response rate (ORR) for patients with medulloblastoma in phase I/II studies was 0% (0-100) and 6.5% (0-50), respectively. Temozolomide containing regimens had a median ORR of 16.5% (0-100). Smoothened inhibitors trials had a median ORR of 8% (3-8). Novel drugs have shown limited activity against relapsed medulloblastoma. Temozolomide might serve as backbone for new combinations. Novel and more homogenous trial designs might facilitate the development of new drugs. © 2017 The Authors. Cancer Medicine published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Phase I/II Study of Weekly Oraxol for the Second-Line Treatment of Patients With Metastatic or Recurrent Gastric Cancer

PubMed Central

Lee, Keun-Wook; Lee, Kyung Hee; Zang, Dae Young; Park, Young Iee; Shin, Dong Bok; Kim, Jin Won; Im, Seock-Ah; Koh, Sung Ae; Cho, Joo-Youn; Jung, Jin-A

2015-01-01

Lessons Learned Oraxol, a novel oral formulation of paclitaxel, displayed modest efficacy as second-line chemotherapy for gastric cancer. Considering its favorable toxicity profiles, further studies are warranted in various solid tumors including gastric cancer. Background. Oraxol consists of paclitaxel and HM30181A, a P-glycoprotein inhibitor, to increase the oral bioavailability of paclitaxel. This phase I/II study (HM-OXL-201) was conducted to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and recommended phase II dose (RP2D) of Oraxol. In addition, we investigated the efficacy and safety of Oraxol as second-line chemotherapy for metastatic or recurrent gastric cancer (GC). Methods. In the phase I component, paclitaxel was orally administered at escalating doses (90, 120, or 150 mg/m2 per day) with a fixed dose (15 mg/day) of HM30181A. Oraxol was administrated 6 times per cycle (days 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, and 16) every 4 weeks. In the phase II component, the efficacy and safety of Oraxol were evaluated. Results. In the phase I component, the MTD could not be determined. Based on toxicity and pharmacokinetic data, the RP2D of oral paclitaxel was determined to be 150 mg/m2. In the phase II component, 4 of 43 patients (9.3%) achieved partial responses. Median progression-free survival and overall survival were 2.6 and 10.7 months, respectively. Toxicity profiles were favorable, and the most common drug-related adverse events (grade ≥3) were neutropenia and diarrhea. Conclusion. Oraxol exhibited modest efficacy and favorable toxicity profiles as second-line chemotherapy for GC. PMID:26112004

New stable ternary alkaline-earth metal Pb(II) oxides: Ca / Sr / BaPb 2 O 3 and BaPbO 2

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

Li, Yuwei; Zhang, Lijun; Singh, David J.

The different but related chemical behaviors of Pb(II) oxides compared to Sn(II) oxides, and the existence of known alkali/alkali-earth metal Sn(II) ternary phases, suggest that there should be additional ternary Pb(II) oxide phases. Here, we report structure searches on the ternary alkaline-earth metal Pb(II) oxides leading to four new phases. These are two ternary Pb(II) oxides, SrPb 2O 3 and BaPb 2O 3, which have larger chemical potential stability ranges compared with the corresponding Sn(II) oxides, and additionally two other ternary Pb(II) oxides, CaPb 2O 3 and BaPbO 2, for which there are no corresponding Sn(II) oxides. Those Pb(II) oxidesmore » are stabilized by Pb-rich conditions. These structures follow the Zintl behavior and consist of basic structural motifs of (PbO 3) 4- anionic units separated and stabilized by the alkaline-earth metal ions. They show wide band gaps ranging from 2.86 to 3.12 eV, and two compounds (CaPb 2O 3 and SrPb 2O 3) show rather light hole effective masses (around 2m 0). The valence band maxima of these compounds have a Pb-6s/O-2p antibonding character, which may lead to p-type defect (or doping) tolerant behavior. This then suggests alkaline-earth metal Pb(II) oxides may be potential p-type transparent conducting oxides.« less

New stable ternary alkaline-earth metal Pb(II) oxides: Ca / Sr / BaPb 2 O 3 and BaPbO 2

DOE PAGES

Li, Yuwei; Zhang, Lijun; Singh, David J.

2017-10-16

The different but related chemical behaviors of Pb(II) oxides compared to Sn(II) oxides, and the existence of known alkali/alkali-earth metal Sn(II) ternary phases, suggest that there should be additional ternary Pb(II) oxide phases. Here, we report structure searches on the ternary alkaline-earth metal Pb(II) oxides leading to four new phases. These are two ternary Pb(II) oxides, SrPb 2O 3 and BaPb 2O 3, which have larger chemical potential stability ranges compared with the corresponding Sn(II) oxides, and additionally two other ternary Pb(II) oxides, CaPb 2O 3 and BaPbO 2, for which there are no corresponding Sn(II) oxides. Those Pb(II) oxidesmore » are stabilized by Pb-rich conditions. These structures follow the Zintl behavior and consist of basic structural motifs of (PbO 3) 4- anionic units separated and stabilized by the alkaline-earth metal ions. They show wide band gaps ranging from 2.86 to 3.12 eV, and two compounds (CaPb 2O 3 and SrPb 2O 3) show rather light hole effective masses (around 2m 0). The valence band maxima of these compounds have a Pb-6s/O-2p antibonding character, which may lead to p-type defect (or doping) tolerant behavior. This then suggests alkaline-earth metal Pb(II) oxides may be potential p-type transparent conducting oxides.« less

Comparison of the Diagnostic Accuracy of DSC- and Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced MRI in the Preoperative Grading of Astrocytomas.

PubMed

Nguyen, T B; Cron, G O; Perdrizet, K; Bezzina, K; Torres, C H; Chakraborty, S; Woulfe, J; Jansen, G H; Sinclair, J; Thornhill, R E; Foottit, C; Zanette, B; Cameron, I G

2015-11-01

Dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging parameters can be biased by poor measurement of the vascular input function. We have compared the diagnostic accuracy of dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging by using a phase-derived vascular input function and "bookend" T1 measurements with DSC MR imaging for preoperative grading of astrocytomas. This prospective study included 48 patients with a new pathologic diagnosis of an astrocytoma. Preoperative MR imaging was performed at 3T, which included 2 injections of 5-mL gadobutrol for dynamic contrast-enhanced and DSC MR imaging. During dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging, both magnitude and phase images were acquired to estimate plasma volume obtained from phase-derived vascular input function (Vp_Φ) and volume transfer constant obtained from phase-derived vascular input function (K(trans)_Φ) as well as plasma volume obtained from magnitude-derived vascular input function (Vp_SI) and volume transfer constant obtained from magnitude-derived vascular input function (K(trans)_SI). From DSC MR imaging, corrected relative CBV was computed. Four ROIs were placed over the solid part of the tumor, and the highest value among the ROIs was recorded. A Mann-Whitney U test was used to test for difference between grades. Diagnostic accuracy was assessed by using receiver operating characteristic analysis. Vp_ Φ and K(trans)_Φ values were lower for grade II compared with grade III astrocytomas (P < .05). Vp_SI and K(trans)_SI were not significantly different between grade II and grade III astrocytomas (P = .08-0.15). Relative CBV and dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging parameters except for K(trans)_SI were lower for grade III compared with grade IV (P ≤ .05). In differentiating low- and high-grade astrocytomas, we found no statistically significant difference in diagnostic accuracy between relative CBV and dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging parameters. In the preoperative grading of astrocytomas, the diagnostic accuracy of dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging parameters is similar to that of relative CBV. © 2015 by American Journal of Neuroradiology.

Phase diagram of antimony up to 31 GPa and 835 K

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Coleman, A. L.; Stevenson, M.; McMahon, M. I.; Macleod, S. G.

2018-04-01

X-ray powder diffraction experiments using resistively heated diamond anvil cells have been conducted in order to establish the phase behavior of antimony up to 31 GPa and 835 K. The dip in the melting curve at 5.7 GPa and 840 K is identified as the triple point between the Sb-I, incommensurate Sb-II, and liquid phases. No evidence of the previously reported simple cubic phase was observed. Determination of the phase boundary between Sb-II and Sb-III suggests the existence of a second triple point in the region of 13 GPa and 1200 K. The incommensurate composite structure of Sb-II was found to remain ordered to the highest temperatures studies—no evidence of disordering of the guest-atom chains was observed. Indeed, the modulation reflections that arise from interactions between the host and guest subsystems were found to be present to the highest temperatures, suggesting such interactions remain relatively strong in Sb even in the presence of increased thermal motion. Finally, we show that the incommensurately modulated structure recently reported as giving an improved fit to diffraction data from incommensurate Ba-IV can be rejected as the structure of Sb-II using a simple density argument.

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.

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

Significant Reduction of Late Toxicities in Patients With Extremity Sarcoma Treated With Image-Guided Radiation Therapy to a Reduced Target Volume: Results of Radiation Therapy Oncology Group RTOG-0630 Trial.

PubMed

Wang, Dian; Zhang, Qiang; Eisenberg, Burton L; Kane, John M; Li, X Allen; Lucas, David; Petersen, Ivy A; DeLaney, Thomas F; Freeman, Carolyn R; Finkelstein, Steven E; Hitchcock, Ying J; Bedi, Manpreet; Singh, Anurag K; Dundas, George; Kirsch, David G

2015-07-10

We performed a multi-institutional prospective phase II trial to assess late toxicities in patients with extremity soft tissue sarcoma (STS) treated with preoperative image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) to a reduced target volume. Patients with extremity STS received IGRT with (cohort A) or without (cohort B) chemotherapy followed by limb-sparing resection. Daily pretreatment images were coregistered with digitally reconstructed radiographs so that the patient position could be adjusted before each treatment. All patients received IGRT to reduced tumor volumes according to strict protocol guidelines. Late toxicities were assessed at 2 years. In all, 98 patients were accrued (cohort A, 12; cohort B, 86). Cohort A was closed prematurely because of poor accrual and is not reported. Seventy-nine eligible patients from cohort B form the basis of this report. At a median follow-up of 3.6 years, five patients did not have surgery because of disease progression. There were five local treatment failures, all of which were in field. Of the 57 patients assessed for late toxicities at 2 years, 10.5% experienced at least one grade ≥ 2 toxicity as compared with 37% of patients in the National Cancer Institute of Canada SR2 (CAN-NCIC-SR2: Phase III Randomized Study of Pre- vs Postoperative Radiotherapy in Curable Extremity Soft Tissue Sarcoma) trial receiving preoperative radiation therapy without IGRT (P < .001). The significant reduction of late toxicities in patients with extremity STS who were treated with preoperative IGRT and absence of marginal-field recurrences suggest that the target volumes used in the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group RTOG-0630 (A Phase II Trial of Image-Guided Preoperative Radiotherapy for Primary Soft Tissue Sarcomas of the Extremity) study are appropriate for preoperative IGRT for extremity STS. © 2015 by American Society of Clinical Oncology.

Kinetics and Products of Chromium(VI) Reduction by Iron(II/III)-Bearing Clay Minerals.

PubMed

Joe-Wong, Claresta; Brown, Gordon E; Maher, Kate

2017-09-05

Hexavalent chromium is a water-soluble pollutant, the mobility of which can be controlled by reduction of Cr(VI) to less soluble, environmentally benign Cr(III). Iron(II/III)-bearing clay minerals are widespread potential reductants of Cr(VI), but the kinetics and pathways of Cr(VI) reduction by such clay minerals are poorly understood. We reacted aqueous Cr(VI) with two abiotically reduced clay minerals: an Fe-poor montmorillonite and an Fe-rich nontronite. The effects of ionic strength, pH, total Fe content, and the fraction of reduced structural Fe(II) [Fe(II)/Fe(total)] were examined. The last variable had the largest effect on Cr(VI) reduction kinetics: for both clay minerals, the rate constant of Cr(VI) reduction varies by more than 3 orders of magnitude with Fe(II)/Fe(total) and is described by a linear free energy relationship. Under all conditions examined, Cr and Fe K-edge X-ray absorption near-edge structure spectra show that the main Cr-bearing product is a Cr(III)-hydroxide and that Fe remains in the clay structure after reacting with Cr(VI). This study helps to quantify our understanding of the kinetics of Cr(VI) reduction by Fe(II/III)-bearing clay minerals and may improve predictions of Cr(VI) behavior in subsurface environments.

Toward the establishment of standardized in vitro tests for lipid-based formulations. 2. The effect of bile salt concentration and drug loading on the performance of type I, II, IIIA, IIIB, and IV formulations during in vitro digestion.

PubMed

Williams, Hywel D; Anby, Mette U; Sassene, Philip; Kleberg, Karen; Bakala-N'Goma, Jean-Claude; Calderone, Marilyn; Jannin, Vincent; Igonin, Annabel; Partheil, Anette; Marchaud, Delphine; Jule, Eduardo; Vertommen, Jan; Maio, Mario; Blundell, Ross; Benameur, Hassan; Carrière, Frédéric; Müllertz, Anette; Pouton, Colin W; Porter, Christopher J H

2012-11-05

The LFCS Consortium was established to develop standardized in vitro tests for lipid-based formulations (LBFs) and to examine the utility of these tests to probe the fundamental mechanisms that underlie LBF performance. In this publication, the impact of bile salt (sodium taurodeoxycholate, NaTDC) concentration and drug loading on the ability of a range of representative LBFs to generate and sustain drug solubilization and supersaturation during in vitro digestion testing has been explored and a common driver of the potential for drug precipitation identified. Danazol was used as a model poorly water-soluble drug throughout. In general, increasing NaTDC concentrations increased the digestion of the most lipophilic LBFs and promoted lipid (and drug) trafficking from poorly dispersed oil phases to the aqueous colloidal phase (AP(DIGEST)). High NaTDC concentrations showed some capacity to reduce drug precipitation, although, at NaTDC concentrations ≥3 mM, NaTDC effects on either digestion or drug solubilization were modest. In contrast, increasing drug load had a marked impact on drug solubilization. For LBFs containing long-chain lipids, drug precipitation was limited even at drug loads approaching saturation in the formulation and concentrations of solubilized drug in AP(DIGEST) increased with increased drug load. For LBFs containing medium-chain lipids, however, significant precipitation was evident, especially at higher drug loads. Across all formulations a remarkably consistent trend emerged such that the likelihood of precipitation was almost entirely dependent on the maximum supersaturation ratio (SR(M)) attained on initiation of digestion. SR(M) defines the supersaturation "pressure" in the system and is calculated from the maximum attainable concentration in the AP(DIGEST) (assuming zero precipitation), divided by the solubility of the drug in the colloidal phases formed post digestion. For LBFs where phase separation of oil phases did not occur, a threshold value for SR(M) was evident, regardless of formulation composition and drug solubilization reduced markedly above SR(M) > 2.5. The threshold SR(M) may prove to be an effective tool in discriminating between LBFs based on performance.

ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY VERIFICATION REPORT, C. LEE COOK DIVISION, DOVER CORPORATION, STATIC PAC (TM) SYSTEM, PHASE II REPORT

EPA Science Inventory

The Environmental Technology Verification report discusses the technology and performance of the Static Pac System, Phase II, natural gas reciprocating compressor rod packing manufactured by the C. Lee Cook Division, Dover Corporation. The Static Pac System is designed to seal th...

40 CFR 300.305 - Phase II-Preliminary assessment and initiation of action.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 27 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Phase II-Preliminary assessment and initiation of action. 300.305 Section 300.305 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY... the OSC is informed of their activities in natural resource damage assessment that may affect response...

40 CFR 72.70 - Relationship to title V operating permit program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

...) AIR PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) PERMITS REGULATION Acid Rain Phase II Implementation § 72.70 Relationship to... operating permit programs and acceptance of State Acid Rain programs, the procedure for including State Acid... of an accepted State program, to issue Phase II Acid Rain permits. (b) Relationship to operating...

40 CFR 72.70 - Relationship to title V operating permit program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

...) AIR PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) PERMITS REGULATION Acid Rain Phase II Implementation § 72.70 Relationship to... operating permit programs and acceptance of State Acid Rain programs, the procedure for including State Acid... of an accepted State program, to issue Phase II Acid Rain permits. (b) Relationship to operating...

40 CFR 72.70 - Relationship to title V operating permit program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

...) AIR PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) PERMITS REGULATION Acid Rain Phase II Implementation § 72.70 Relationship to... operating permit programs and acceptance of State Acid Rain programs, the procedure for including State Acid... of an accepted State program, to issue Phase II Acid Rain permits. (b) Relationship to operating...

40 CFR 72.70 - Relationship to title V operating permit program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

...) AIR PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) PERMITS REGULATION Acid Rain Phase II Implementation § 72.70 Relationship to... operating permit programs and acceptance of State Acid Rain programs, the procedure for including State Acid... of an accepted State program, to issue Phase II Acid Rain permits. (b) Relationship to operating...

40 CFR 72.70 - Relationship to title V operating permit program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

...) AIR PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) PERMITS REGULATION Acid Rain Phase II Implementation § 72.70 Relationship to... operating permit programs and acceptance of State Acid Rain programs, the procedure for including State Acid... of an accepted State program, to issue Phase II Acid Rain permits. (b) Relationship to operating...

Polymer Light-Emitting Diode (PLED) Process Development

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-12-01

conclusions and recommendations for Phase II of the Flexible Display Program. 15. SUBJECT TERMS LIGHT EMITTING DIODES LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY SYSTEMS...space for Phase I and II confined by backplane complexity and substrate form...12 Figure 6. Semi automated I-V curve measurement setup consisting of Keithley power supply, computer and

40 CFR 300.305 - Phase II-Preliminary assessment and initiation of action.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 29 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Phase II-Preliminary assessment and initiation of action. 300.305 Section 300.305 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) SUPERFUND, EMERGENCY PLANNING, AND COMMUNITY RIGHT-TO-KNOW PROGRAMS NATIONAL OIL AND HAZARDOUS...

40 CFR 300.305 - Phase II-Preliminary assessment and initiation of action.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 29 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Phase II-Preliminary assessment and initiation of action. 300.305 Section 300.305 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) SUPERFUND, EMERGENCY PLANNING, AND COMMUNITY RIGHT-TO-KNOW PROGRAMS NATIONAL OIL AND HAZARDOUS...

40 CFR 300.305 - Phase II-Preliminary assessment and initiation of action.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 28 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Phase II-Preliminary assessment and initiation of action. 300.305 Section 300.305 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) SUPERFUND, EMERGENCY PLANNING, AND COMMUNITY RIGHT-TO-KNOW PROGRAMS NATIONAL OIL AND HAZARDOUS...

40 CFR 300.305 - Phase II-Preliminary assessment and initiation of action.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 28 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Phase II-Preliminary assessment and initiation of action. 300.305 Section 300.305 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) SUPERFUND, EMERGENCY PLANNING, AND COMMUNITY RIGHT-TO-KNOW PROGRAMS NATIONAL OIL AND HAZARDOUS...

47 CFR 400.2 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... and phase II enhanced 911 services, as described in 47 CFR 20.18. Eligible entity means a State or... video services, which make common use of all or part of the same transmission facilities, switches... services mean phase II enhanced 911 services, as described in 47 CFR 20.18. PSAP means a public safety...

47 CFR 400.2 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... and phase II enhanced 911 services, as described in 47 CFR 20.18. Eligible entity means a State or... video services, which make common use of all or part of the same transmission facilities, switches... services mean phase II enhanced 911 services, as described in 47 CFR 20.18. PSAP means a public safety...

47 CFR 400.2 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... and phase II enhanced 911 services, as described in 47 CFR 20.18. Eligible entity means a State or... video services, which make common use of all or part of the same transmission facilities, switches... services mean phase II enhanced 911 services, as described in 47 CFR 20.18. PSAP means a public safety...

47 CFR 400.2 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... and phase II enhanced 911 services, as described in 47 CFR 20.18. Eligible entity means a State or... video services, which make common use of all or part of the same transmission facilities, switches... services mean phase II enhanced 911 services, as described in 47 CFR 20.18. PSAP means a public safety...

47 CFR 400.2 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... and phase II enhanced 911 services, as described in 47 CFR 20.18. Eligible entity means a State or... video services, which make common use of all or part of the same transmission facilities, switches... services mean phase II enhanced 911 services, as described in 47 CFR 20.18. PSAP means a public safety...

DEVELOPMENT OF AN ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY AND ECONOMICAL PROCESS FOR PLUGGING ABANDONED WELLS (PHASE II)

EPA Science Inventory

The phase II of this project was successfully completed with field tests being presently underway. It was found from the laboratory study that the fly ash slurry had sufficient thickening time and could be pumped successfully through coiled and straight tubing. Pumping through...

Effects of low molecular weight organic acids on the immobilization of aqueous Pb(II) using phosphate rock and different crystallized hydroxyapatite.

PubMed

Wei, Wei; Cui, Jing; Wei, Zhenggui

2014-06-01

Understanding the effects of low molecular weight organic acids (LMWOAs) on the transformation of Pb(II) to geochemically stable pyromorphite (PY) by apatite materials (AMs), has considerable benefits for risk assessment and remediation strategies for contaminated water and soil. In this study, we systematically investigated the immobilization of Pb(II) from aqueous solution by natural phosphate rock (PR) and different crystallized hydroxyapatite (HAp) in the absence and presence of LMWOAs (oxalic, malic and citric acids). The results indicated that the effectiveness of PR and HAp in immobilizing Pb(II) followed in descending order by HAp2 (the poorly crystallized HAp), HAp1 (the well crystallized HAp) and PR, regardlessof the presence of LMWOAs. The presence of malic and citric acids significantly decreased the immobilizationefficiency of Pb(II) by HAp1 and PR, clarifying the lower adsorption affinities of Pb(II)-organic acid complexes on HAp1 and PR rather than Pb(II) ion. On thecontrary, oxalic acid could markedly enhance the removal of Pb(II) from aqueous solution by HAp1 and PR through the formation of lead oxalate, which was confirmed by FT-IR and XRDanalysis. Results also showed that LMWOAs had little promoting or inhibiting effect on the immobilization of Pb(II) by HAp2. This study suggested that the ubiquity of LMWOAs in natural environments could retard the transformation efficiency of Pb(II) to PY by AMs, especiallyin thepresenceof oxalic acid, and the poorly crystallized HAp2 had great potential to remediate Pb(II)-contaminated water and soil due to its insusceptibility to LMWOAs. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Daily Goals Formulation and Enhanced Visualization of Mechanical Ventilation Variance Improves Mechanical Ventilation Score.

PubMed

Walsh, Brian K; Smallwood, Craig; Rettig, Jordan; Kacmarek, Robert M; Thompson, John; Arnold, John H

2017-03-01

The systematic implementation of evidence-based practice through the use of guidelines, checklists, and protocols mitigates the risks associated with mechanical ventilation, yet variation in practice remains prevalent. Recent advances in software and hardware have allowed for the development and deployment of an enhanced visualization tool that identifies mechanical ventilation goal variance. Our aim was to assess the utility of daily goal establishment and a computer-aided visualization of variance. This study was composed of 3 phases: a retrospective observational phase (baseline) followed by 2 prospective sequential interventions. Phase I intervention comprised daily goal establishment of mechanical ventilation. Phase II intervention was the setting and monitoring of daily goals of mechanical ventilation with a web-based data visualization system (T3). A single score of mechanical ventilation was developed to evaluate the outcome. The baseline phase evaluated 130 subjects, phase I enrolled 31 subjects, and phase II enrolled 36 subjects. There were no differences in demographic characteristics between cohorts. A total of 171 verbalizations of goals of mechanical ventilation were completed in phase I. The use of T3 increased by 87% from phase I. Mechanical ventilation score improved by 8.4% in phase I and 11.3% in phase II from baseline ( P = .032). The largest effect was in the low risk V T category, with a 40.3% improvement from baseline in phase I, which was maintained at 39% improvement from baseline in phase II ( P = .01). mechanical ventilation score was 9% higher on average in those who survived. Daily goal formation and computer-enhanced visualization of mechanical ventilation variance were associated with an improvement in goal attainment by evidence of an improved mechanical ventilation score. Further research is needed to determine whether improvements in mechanical ventilation score through a targeted, process-oriented intervention will lead to improved patient outcomes. (ClinicalTrials.gov registration NCT02184208.). Copyright © 2017 by Daedalus Enterprises.

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

On-line solid phase selective separation and preconcentration of Cd(II) by solid-phase extraction using carbon active modified with methyl thymol blue.

PubMed

Ensafi, Ali A; Ghaderi, Ali R

2007-09-05

An on-line flow system was used to develop a selective and efficient on-line sorbent extraction preconcentration system for cadmium. The method is based on adsorption of cadmium ions onto the activated carbon modified with methyl thymol blue. Then the adsorbed ions were washed using 0.5M HNO(3) and the eluent was used to determine the Cd(II) ions using flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The results obtained show that the modified activated carbon has the greatest adsorption capacity of 80 microg of Cd(II) per 1.0 g of the solid phase. The optimal pH value for the quantitative preconcentration was 9.0 and full desorption is achieved by using 0.5M HNO(3) solution. It is established that the solid phase can be used repeatedly without a considerable adsorption capacity loss. The detection limit was less than 1 ngmL(-1) Cd(II), with an enrichment factor of 1000. The calibration graph was linear in the range of 1-2000 ngmL(-1) Cd(II). The developed method has been applied to the determination of trace cadmium (II) in water samples and in the following reference materials: sewage sludge (CRM144R), and sea water (CASS.4) with satisfactory results. The accuracy was assessed through recovery experiments.

Increased oxidative stress in the mitochondria isolated from lymphocytes of bipolar disorder patients during depressive episodes.

PubMed

Valvassori, Samira S; Bavaresco, Daniela V; Feier, Gustavo; Cechinel-Recco, Kelen; Steckert, Amanda V; Varela, Roger B; Borges, Cenita; Carvalho-Silva, Milena; Gomes, Lara M; Streck, Emílio L; Quevedo, João

2018-06-01

The present study aims to investigate the oxidative stress parameters in isolated mitochondria, as well as looking at mitochondrial complex activity in patients with Bipolar Disorder (BD) during depressive or euthymic episodes. This study evaluated the levels of mitochondrial complex (I, II, II-III and IV) activity in lymphocytes from BD patients. We evaluated the following oxidative stress parameters: superoxide, thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBARS) and carbonyl levels in submitochondrial particles of lymphocytes from bipolar patients. 51 bipolar patients were recruited into this study: 34 in the euthymic phase, and 17 in the depressive phase. Our results indicated that the depressive phase could increase the levels of mitochondrial superoxide, carbonyl and TBARS, and superoxide dismutase, and could decrease the levels of mitochondrial complex II activity in the lymphocytes of bipolar patients. It was also observed that there was a negative correlation between the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) and complex II activity in the lymphocytes of depressive bipolar patients. In addition, there was a positive correlation between HDRS and superoxide, superoxide dismutase, TBARS and carbonyl. Additionally, there was a negative correlation between complex II activity and oxidative stress parameters. In conclusion, our results suggest that mitochondrial oxidative stress and mitochondrial complex II dysfunction play important roles in the depressive phase of BD. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Can high pressure I-II transitions in semiconductors be affected by plastic flow and nanocrystal precipitation in phase I?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weinstein, B. A.; Lindberg, G. P.

Pressure-Raman spectroscopy in ZnSe and ZnTe single crystals reveals that Se and Te nano-crystals (NCs) precipitate in these II-VI hosts for pressures far below their I-II phase transitions. The inclusions are evident from the appearance and negative pressure-shift of the A1 Raman peaks of Se and Te (trigonal phase). The Se and Te NCs nucleate at dislocations and grain boundaries that arise from pressure-induced plastic flow. This produces chemical and structural inhomogeneities in the zincblende phase of the host. At substantially higher pressures, the I-II transition proceeds in the presence of these inhomogenities. This can affect the transition's onset pressure Pt and width ΔPt, and the occurrence of metastable phases along the transition path. Precipitation models in metals show that nucleation of inclusions depends on the Peierls stress τp and a parameter α related to the net free energy gained on nucleation. For favorable values of τp and α, NC precipitation at pressures below the I-II transition could occur in other compounds. We propose criteria to judge whether this is likely based on the observed ranges of τp in the hosts, and estimates of α derived from the cohesive energy densities of the NC materials. One finds trends that can serve as a useful guide, both to test the proposed criteria, and to decide when closer scrutiny of phase transition experiments is warranted, e.g., in powders where high dislocation densities are initially created

Cladribine combined with high doses of arabinoside cytosine, mitoxantrone, and G-CSF (CLAG-M) is a highly effective salvage regimen in patients with refractory and relapsed acute myeloid leukemia of the poor risk: a final report of the Polish Adult Leukemia Group.

PubMed

Wierzbowska, Agnieszka; Robak, Tadeusz; Pluta, Agnieszka; Wawrzyniak, Ewa; Cebula, Barbara; Hołowiecki, Jerzy; Kyrcz-Krzemień, Sławomira; Grosicki, Sebastian; Giebel, Sebastian; Skotnicki, Aleksander B; Piatkowska-Jakubas, Beata; Kuliczkowski, Kazimierz; Kiełbiński, Marek; Zawilska, Krystyna; Kłoczko, Janusz; Wrzesień-Kuś, Agata

2008-02-01

Patients with primary refractory AML and with early relapses have unfavorable prognoses and require innovative therapeutic approaches. Purine analogs fludarabine (FA) and cladribine (2-CdA) increase cytotoxic effect of Ara-C in leukemic blasts and inhibit DNA repair mechanisms; therefore its association with Ara-C and mitoxantrone (MIT) results in a synergistic effect. In the current report, we present the final results of multi-center phase II study evaluating the efficacy and toxicity of CLAG-M salvage regimen in poor risk refractory/relapsed AML patients. The induction chemotherapy consisted of 2-CdA 5 mg/m2, Ara-C 2 g/m2, MIT 10 mg/m2, and granulocyte-colony stimulating factor. In the case of PR, a second CLAG-M was administered. Patients in CR received consolidation courses based on high doses of Ara-C and MIT with or without 2-CdA. One hundred and eighteen patients from 11 centers were registered; 78 primary resistant and 40 relapsed. Sixty-six patients (58%) achieved CR after one or two courses of CLAG-M, 49 (35%) were refractory, and 8 (7%) died early. WBC >10 g/L and age >34 yr were factors associated with increased risk of treatment failure. Hematological toxicity was the most prominent toxicity of this regimen. The probability of OS at 4 yr was 14% (95% CI 4-23%). OS was influenced by age, WBC >10 g/L and poor karyotype in both univariate and multivariate analyses. The probability of 4 yr DFS was 30% for all 66 patients in CR (95% CI 11-49%). Poor karyotype was the only factor associated with decreased probability of DFS. We conclude that CLAG-M is a well-tolerated and highly effective salvage regimen in poor risk refractory/relapsed AML.

Lipopolysaccharide variation in Coxiella burnetti: intrastrain heterogeneity in structure and antigenicity.

PubMed Central

Hackstadt, T; Peacock, M G; Hitchcock, P J; Cole, R L

1985-01-01

We isolated lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) from phase variants of Coxiella burnetii Nine Mile and compared the isolated LPS and C. burnetii cells by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and immunoblotting. The LPSs were found to be the predominant component which varied structurally and antigenically between virulent phase I and avirulent phase II. A comparison of techniques historically used to extract the phase I antigenic component revealed that the aqueous phase of phenol-water, trichloroacetic acid, and dimethyl sulfoxide extractions of phase I C. burnettii cells all contained phase I LPS, although the efficiency and specificity of extraction varied. Our studies provide additional evidence that phase variation in C. burnetii is analogous to the smooth-to-rough LPS variation of gram-negative enteric bacteria, with phase I LPS being equivalent to smooth LPS and phase II being equivalent to rough LPS. In addition, we identified a variant with a third LPS chemotype with appears to have a structural complexity intermediate to phase I and II LPSs. All three C. burnetii LPS contain a 2-keto-3-deoxyoctulosonic acid-like substance, heptose, and gel Limulus amoebocyte lysates in subnanogram amounts. The C. burnetii LPSs were nontoxic to chicken embryos at doses of over 80 micrograms per embryo, in contrast to Salmonella typhimurium smooth- and rough-type LPSs, which were toxic in nanogram amounts. Images PMID:3988339

Therapeutic Potential of Curcumin in Treatment of Pancreatic Cancer: Current Status and Future Perspectives.

PubMed

Hosseini, Mina; Hassanian, Seyed Mahdi; Mohammadzadeh, Elham; ShahidSales, Soodabeh; Maftouh, Mina; Fayazbakhsh, Hasan; Khazaei, Majid; Avan, Amir

2017-07-01

Pancreatic cancer is among the leading cause of deaths due to cancer with extremely poor prognosis. Gemcitabine is being used in the treatment of patient with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), although, the response rate is bellow 12%. A recent phase III trial revealed that FOLFIRINOX could be an option for the treatment of metastatic PDAC patients, although it is associated with increased toxicity. Therefore, identification of novel agents that either improves gemcitabine activity, within novel combinatorial approaches, or with a better efficacy than gemcitabine is warranted. The antitumor activity of curcumin in several tumors, including prostate, breast and colorectal cancers have investigated. A recent phase II trial explored the effects of curcumin in advanced pancreatic cancer patient. They found that oral curcumin was well tolerated. Another trial showed the activity of 8,000 mg of curcumin in combination with gemcitabine in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer. This review summarizes the current knowledge about possible molecular mechanisms of curcumin in PDAC with particular emphasis on preclinical/clinical studies in pancreatic cancer treatment. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 1634-1638, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Adaptive Control of Non-Minimum Phase Modal Systems Using Residual Mode Filters2. Parts 1 and 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Balas, Mark J.; Frost, Susan

2011-01-01

Many dynamic systems containing a large number of modes can benefit from adaptive control techniques, which are well suited to applications that have unknown parameters and poorly known operating conditions. In this paper, we focus on a direct adaptive control approach that has been extended to handle adaptive rejection of persistent disturbances. We extend this adaptive control theory to accommodate problematic modal subsystems of a plant that inhibit the adaptive controller by causing the open-loop plant to be non-minimum phase. We will modify the adaptive controller with a Residual Mode Filter (RMF) to compensate for problematic modal subsystems, thereby allowing the system to satisfy the requirements for the adaptive controller to have guaranteed convergence and bounded gains. This paper will be divided into two parts. Here in Part I we will review the basic adaptive control approach and introduce the primary ideas. In Part II, we will present the RMF methodology and complete the proofs of all our results. Also, we will apply the above theoretical results to a simple flexible structure example to illustrate the behavior with and without the residual mode filter.

Dietary intakes associated with successful weight loss and maintenance during the Weight Loss Maintenance Trial

PubMed Central

Champagne, Catherine M.; Broyles, Stephanie T; Moran, Laura D.; Cash, Katherine C.; Levy, Erma J.; Lin, Pao-Hwa; Batch, Bryan C.; Lien, Lillian F.; Funk, Kristine L.; Dalcin, Arlene; Loria, Catherine; Myers, Valerie H.

2011-01-01

Background Dietary components effective in weight maintenance efforts have not been adequately identified. Objective To determine impact of changes in dietary consumption on weight loss and maintenance during the Weight Loss Maintenance (WLM) clinical trial. Design WLM was a randomized controlled trial. Successful weight loss participants who completed Phase I of the trial and lost 4kg were randomized to one of three maintenance intervention arms in Phase II and followed for an additional 30 months. Participants/setting The multicenter trial was conducted from 2003–2007. This substudy included 828 successful weight loss participants. Methods Dietary Measures The Block Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) was used to assess nutrient intake levels and food group servings. Carbohydrates, proteins, fats, dietary fiber and fruit/vegetable and dairy servings were utilized as predictor variables. Data collection The FFQ was collected on all participants at study entry (beginning of Phase I). Those randomized to Phase II completed the FFQ at three additional time points; randomization (beginning of Phase II), 12 and 30 months. Intervention The main intervention focused on long term maintenance of weight loss using the Dietary Approaches to Hypertension (DASH) diet. This substudy examined whether changes to specific dietary variables were associated with weight loss and maintenance. Statistical analyses performed Linear regression models that adjusted for change in total energy examined the relationship between changes in dietary intake and weight for each time period. Site, age, race, sex, and a race-sex interaction were included as covariates. Results Participants who substituted protein for fat lost, on average, 0.33 kg per 6-months during Phase I (p<0.0001) and 0.07 kg per 6-months during Phase II (p<0.0001) per 1% increase in protein. Increased intake of fruits and vegetables was associated with weight loss in Phases I and II: 0.29 kg per 6-months (p<0.0001) and 0.04 kg per 6-months (p=0.0062), respectively, per 1-serving increase. Substitution of carbohydrates for fat and protein for carbohydrates were associated with weight loss during both phases. Increasing dairy intake was associated with significant weight loss during Phase II (−0.17 kg per 6-months per 1-serving increase, p=0.0002), but not in Phase I. Dietary fiber revealed no significant findings. Conclusion Increasing fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy may help achieve weight loss and maintenance. PMID:22117658

Safety and hemostatic efficacy of fibrin pad in partial nephrectomy: Results of an open-label Phase I and a randomized, standard-of-care-controlled Phase I/II study

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Bleeding severity, anatomic location, tissue characteristics, and visibility are common challenges encountered while managing intraoperative bleeding, and conventional hemostatic measures (suture, ligature, and cautery) may sometimes be ineffective or impractical. While topical absorbable hemostats (TAH) are useful hemostatic adjuvants, each TAH has associated disadvantages. Methods We evaluated the safety and hemostatic efficacy of a new advanced biologic combination product―fibrin pad―to potentially address some gaps associated with TAHs. Fibrin pad was assessed as adjunctive hemostat in open partial nephrectomy in single-center, open-label, Phase I study (N = 10), and as primary hemostat in multicenter, single-blind, randomized, standard-of-care (SOC)-controlled Phase I/II study (N = 7) in Israel. It was used to control mild-to-moderate bleeding in Phase I and also spurting arterial bleeding in Phase I/II study. Phase I study assessed safety and Phase I/II study, proportion of successes at 10 min following randomization, analyzed by Fisher exact tests at 5% significance level. Results Phase I (N = 10): All patients completed the study. Hemostasis was achieved within 3–4 min (average = 3.1 min) of a single application in all patients. Fibrin pad was found to be safe for human use, with no product-related adverse events reported. Phase I/II (N = 7): Hemostatic success at 10 min (primary endpoint) was achieved in 3/4 patients treated with fibrin pad versus 0/3 patients treated with SOC. No clinically significant change in laboratory or coagulation parameters was recorded, except a case of post-procedural hemorrhage with fibrin pad, which was considered serious and related to the fibrin pad treatment, and required re-operation. Although Data Safety Monitoring Board authorized trial continuation, the sponsor decided against proceeding toward an indication for primary treatment of severe arterial hemorrhage as a replacement for sutures. The study was suspended after 7/30 planned subjects were enrolled. Conclusions The first-in-man trial of fibrin pad demonstrated its safety and efficacy as an adjunctive hemostatic technique for mild-to-moderate bleeding in partial nephrectomy. The study also suggested that the product should not replace sutures or meticulous surgical techniques for the treatment of severe arterial hemorrhage. Trial registration Phase I/II trial, NCT00598130 PMID:23137020

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

First results from GERDA Phase II

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.; 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.; 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.; 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.; Zuber, K.; Zuzel, G.

2017-09-01

Gerda is designed for a background-free search of 76Ge neutrinoless double-β decay, using bare Ge detectors in liquid Ar. The experiment was upgraded after the successful completion of Phase I to double the target mass and further reduce the background. Newly-designed Ge detectors were installed along with LAr scintillation sensors. Phase II of data-taking started in Dec 2015 with approximately 36 kg of Ge detectors and is currently ongoing. The first results based on 10.8 kg· yr of exposure are presented. The background goal of 10-3 cts/(keV· kg· yr) is achieved and a search for neutrinoless double-β decay is performed by combining Phase I and II data. No signal is found and a new limit is set at T1/20ν > 5.3 \\cdot {1025} yr (90% C.L.).

Interplay between affect and arousal in recognition memory.

PubMed

Greene, Ciara M; Bahri, Pooja; Soto, David

2010-07-23

Emotional states linked to arousal and mood are known to affect the efficiency of cognitive performance. However, the extent to which memory processes may be affected by arousal, mood or their interaction is poorly understood. Following a study phase of abstract shapes, we altered the emotional state of participants by means of exposure to music that varied in both mood and arousal dimensions, leading to four different emotional states: (i) positive mood-high arousal; (ii) positive mood-low arousal; (iii) negative mood-high arousal; (iv) negative mood-low arousal. Following the emotional induction, participants performed a memory recognition test. Critically, there was an interaction between mood and arousal on recognition performance. Memory was enhanced in the positive mood-high arousal and in the negative mood-low arousal states, relative to the other emotional conditions. Neither mood nor arousal alone but their interaction appears most critical to understanding the emotional enhancement of memory.

Profile of atrial fibrillation inpatients: Cardiovascular risk factors and cardiac rehabilitation programme delivery and referral patterns.

PubMed

Gallagher, Robyn; Zhang, Ling; Roach, Kellie; Sadler, Leonie; Belshaw, Julie; Kirkness, Ann; Proctor, Ross; Neubeck, Lis

2015-12-01

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is increasingly common; however, the cardiovascular risk factor profile and the patterns of delivery and referral to cardiac rehabilitation (CR) in this population are poorly described. We conducted an audit of medical records (n = 145) of patients admitted with AF in one local health district in Sydney, Australia. Patients were aged a mean 72 years, and 51% were male. Lack of risk factor documentation was common. Despite this, 65% had two or more modifiable cardiovascular risk factors, including hypertension (63%) and hypercholesterolaemia (52%). Referral to Phase II CR occurred for 25% and was decreased with permanent AF diagnosis and increased with more risk factors. AF patients admitted to hospital have multiple cardiovascular risk factors but limited risk factor screening and/or referral to outpatient CR programmes. © 2014 Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.

Thermodynamic investigation of the phase equilibrium boundary between TiO2 rutile and its α-PbO2-type high-pressure polymorph

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kojitani, Hiroshi; Yamazaki, Monami; Kojima, Meiko; Inaguma, Yoshiyuki; Mori, Daisuke; Akaogi, Masaki

2018-06-01

Heat capacity (C P) of rutile and α-PbO2 type TiO2 (TiO2-II) were measured by the differential scanning calorimetry and thermal relaxation method. Using the results, standard entropies at 1 atm and 298.15 K of rutile and TiO2-II were determined to be 50.04(4) and 46.54(2) J/mol K, respectively. Furthermore, thermal expansivity (α) determined by high-temperature X-ray diffraction measurement and mode Grüneisen parameters obtained by high-pressure Raman spectroscopy suggested the thermal Grüneisen parameter (γ th) for TiO2-II of 1.7(1). By applying the obtained low-temperature C P and γ th, the measured C P and α data of TiO2-II were extrapolated to higher temperature region using a lattice vibrational model calculation, as well as rutile. Internally consistent thermodynamic data sets of both rutile and TiO2-II assessed in this study were used to thermodynamically calculate the rutile‒TiO2-II phase equilibrium boundary. The most plausible boundary was obtained to be P (GPa) = 0.0074T (K) - 1.7. Our boundary suggests that the crystal growth of TiO2-II observed below 5.5 GPa and 900 K in previous studies advanced in its stability field. The phase boundary calculation also suggested small, exothermic phase transition enthalpy from rutile to TiO2-II at 1 atm and 298.15 K of - 0.5 to - 1.1 kJ/mol. This implies that the thermodynamic stability of rutile at 1 atm above room temperature is due to larger contribution of entropy term.

The effect of amblyopia treatment on stereoacuity.

PubMed

Stewart, Catherine E; Wallace, Michael P; Stephens, David A; Fielder, Alistair R; Moseley, Merrick J

2013-04-01

To explore how stereoacuity changes in patients while they are being treated for amblyopia. The Monitored Occlusion Treatment for Amblyopia Study (MOTAS) comprised 3 distinct phases. In the first phase, baseline, assessments of visual function were made to confirm the initial visual and binocular visual deficit. The second phase, refractive adaptation, now commonly termed "optical treatment," was an 18-week period of spectacle wear with measurements of logMAR visual acuity and stereoacuity with the Frisby test at weeks 0, 6, 12, and 18. In the third phase, occlusion, participants were prescribed 6 hours of patching per day. A total of 85 children were enrolled (mean age, 5.1 ± 1.5 years). In 21 children amblyopia was associated with anisometropia; in 29, with strabismus; and in 35, with both. At study entry, poor stereoacuity was associated with poor visual acuity (P < 0.001) in the amblyopic eye and greater angle of strabismus (P < 0.001). Of 66 participants, 25 (38%) who received refractive adaptation and 19 (29%) who received occlusion improved by at least one octave in stereoacuity, exceeding test-retest variability. Overall, 38 (45%) improved one or more octaves across both treatment phases. Unmeasureable stereoacuity was observed in 56 participants (66%) at study entry and in 37 (43%) at study exit. Stereoacuity improved for almost one half of the study participants. Improvement was observed in both treatment phases. Factors associated with poor or nil stereoacuity at study entry and exit were poor visual acuity of the amblyopic eye and large-angle strabismus. Copyright © 2013 American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Phase I/randomized phase II study of afatinib, an irreversible ErbB family blocker, with or without protracted temozolomide in adults with recurrent glioblastoma.

PubMed

Reardon, David A; Nabors, Louis B; Mason, Warren P; Perry, James R; Shapiro, William; Kavan, Petr; Mathieu, David; Phuphanich, Surasak; Cseh, Agnieszka; Fu, Yali; Cong, Julie; Wind, Sven; Eisenstat, David D

2015-03-01

This phase I/II trial evaluated the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and pharmacokinetics of afatinib plus temozolomide as well as the efficacy and safety of afatinib as monotherapy (A) or with temozolomide (AT) vs temozolomide monotherapy (T) in patients with recurrent glioblastoma (GBM). Phase I followed a traditional 3 + 3 dose-escalation design to determine MTD. Treatment cohorts were: afatinib 20, 40, and 50 mg/day (plus temozolomide 75 mg/m(2)/day for 21 days per 28-day cycle). In phase II, participants were randomized (stratified by age and KPS) to receive A, T or AT; A was dosed at 40 mg/day and T at 75 mg/m(2) for 21 of 28 days. Primary endpoint was progression-free survival rate at 6 months (PFS-6). Participants were treated until intolerable adverse events (AEs) or disease progression. Recommended phase II dose was 40 mg/day (A) + T based on safety data from phase I (n = 32). Most frequent AEs in phase II (n = 119) were diarrhea (71% [A], 82% [AT]) and rash (71% [A] and 69% [AT]). Afatinib and temozolomide pharmacokinetics were unaffected by coadministration. Independently assessed PFS-6 rate was 3% (A), 10% (AT), and 23% (T). Median PFS was longer in afatinib-treated participants with epidermal growth factor receptor (EFGR) vIII-positive tumors versus EGFRvIII-negative tumors. Best overall response included partial response in 1 (A), 2 (AT), and 4 (T) participants and stable disease in 14 (A), 14 (AT), and 21 (T) participants. Afatinib has a manageable safety profile but limited single-agent activity in unselected recurrent GBM patients. © The Author(s) 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society for Neuro-Oncology. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.