Implementation of an Activity-Based Costing System in an Air Force Laboratory Environment

The purpose of this study was to examine the initial implementation of an Activity Based Costing (ABC) system within the United States Air Force\u27s Research Laboratories (AFRL). We were attempting to ascertain what the initial purposes for implementing ABC within AFRL were, then determine whether or not those goals were being attained. We also attempted to evaluate the current system\u27s appropriateness for achieving those initial purposes. Finally, we provide suggested changes to the model and areas for future research. We noted problems with AFRL\u27s current ABC system. We were able to condense the problem into two main categories. First, when the system was initially designed, it was hampered by a rigid structure that was predetermined and there was also insufficient training for the personnel in charge of development. The second category is concerned with the implementation of their current system. There were many steps that could have been taken to ensure a successful ABC system. We believe ABC is a potentially beneficial tool that can be used by AFRL if it is developed and implemented in a different manner. ABC, as it is currently being wed, is not a beneficial tool at lower levels within AFRL. In order to attain the fill benefits of an ABC system, it must be beneficial to those lower levels where cost savings could be found

Storia naturale degli angiomi epatici.

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The Neuropeptide Y Y1 receptor: a diagnostic marker? Expression in MCF-7 breast cancer cells is down-regulated by antiestrogens in vitro and in xenografts

The neuropeptide Y (NPY) Y1 receptor (Y1R) has been suggested as a tumor marker for in vivo imaging and as a therapeutic target. In view of the assumed link between estrogen receptor (ER) and Y1R in mammary carcinoma and with respect to the development of new diagnostic tools we investigated the Y1R protein expression in human MCF-7 cell variants differing in ER content and sensitivity against antiestrogens. ER and Y1R expression were quantified by radioligand binding using [3H]-17beta-estradiol and the Y1R selective antagonist [3H]-UR-MK114, respectively. The latter was used for cellular binding studies and for autoradiography of MCF-7 xenografts. The fluorescent ligands Cy5-pNPY (universal Y1R, Y2R and Y5R agonist) and UR-MK22 (selective Y1R antagonist), as well as the selective antagonists BIBP3226 (Y1R), BIIE0246 (Y2R) and CGP71683 (Y5R) were used to identify the NPY receptor subtype(s) by confocal microscopy. Y1R functionality was determined by mobilization of intracellular Ca2+. Sensitivity of MCF-7 cells against antiestrogen 4-hydroxytamoxifen correlated directly with the ER content. The exclusive expression of Y1Rs was confirmed by confocal microscopy. The Y1R protein was up-regulated (100 %) by 17beta-estradiol (EC50 20 pM) and the predominant role of ERalpha was demonstrated by using the ERalpha-selective agonist “propylpyrazole triol”. 17beta-Estradiol-induced over-expression of functional Y1R protein was reverted by the antiestrogen fulvestrant (IC50 5 nM) in vitro. Furthermore, tamoxifen treatment of nude mice resulted in an almost total loss of Y1Rs in MCF-7 xenografts. In conclusion, the value of the Y1R as a target for therapy and imaging in breast cancer patients may be compromised due to Y1R down-regulation induced by hormonal (antiestrogen) treatment

The Year of Secession, 1861 Civil War letter collection, MSS.0305

Abstract: Photocopies of sixteen letters written during the first year of the Civil War, and includes letters from William J. Hardee, Joseph E. Johnston, and Robert A. Toombs among othersScope and Content Note: The collection contains photocopies of sixteen letters written during the first year of the Civil War, and includes letters from William J. Hardee, Joseph E. Johnston, and Robert A. Toombs, among several others. Many of the letters have been transcribed and are attached.Biographical/Historical Note