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Code · REGISTER · 2007-04-26 · National Institutes of Health, Public Health Service, HHS · Notices

Notices. Notice

12,149 words·~55 min read·/register/2007/04/26/07-2061

A research copy — for the controlling text, always check the official state or federal source. Not legal advice.

BILLING CODE 4165-16-M DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES National Institutes of Health Government-Owned Inventions; Availability for Licensing AGENCY: National Institutes of Health, Public Health Service, HHS. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: The inventions listed below are owned by an agency of the U.S. Government and are available for licensing in the U.S. in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 207 to achieve expeditious commercialization of results of federally-funded research and development.
Foreign patent applications are filed on selected inventions to extend market coverage for companies and may also be available for licensing. ADDRESSES: Licensing information and copies of the U.S. patent applications listed below may be obtained by writing to the indicated licensing contact at the Office of Technology Transfer, National Institutes of Health, 6011 Executive Boulevard, Suite 325, Rockville, Maryland 20852-3804; telephone: 301/496-7057; fax: 301/402-0220. A signed Confidential Disclosure Agreement will be required to receive copies of the patent applications.
Apparatus for Brachytherapy *Description of Technology:* Available for licensing and commercial development is a device for delivering targeted radiation brachytherapy to a portion of tissue in the cavity of a patient. The device includes an applicator with a balloon where in a deflated state is inserted into the body cavity and in an inflated state enlarges to fill the body cavity. The balloon moves from the deflated state into the inflated state upon introduction of pressurized fluid to the interior of the balloon.
The apparatus also includes a catheter extending over at least a portion of the balloon for delivering treatment to the adjacent cavity ( *e.g.* , radiation or heat). A tracking device ( *e.g.* , a camera) is included in the apparatus for helping track the positioning of the balloon within the body cavity prior to inflation. The apparatus can be alternatively configured with a second balloon containing a therapeutic agent which is inflated after positioning and expansion with a first balloon first. *Applications:* Brachytherapy;
Radiation dosing; Cancer therapy. *Development Status:* Early-stage; Pre-clinical data available; Prototype. *Inventor:* Anurag K. Singh (NCI). *Patent Status:* U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/811,762 filed 08 Jun 2006 (HHS Reference No. E-314-2005/0-US-01). *Licensing Status:* Available for licensing non-exclusively or exclusively to qualified applicants that satisfy the criteria set forth in 37 CFR 404.7. *Licensing Contact:* Michael A. Shmilovich, Esq.; 301/435-5019; *shmilovm@mail.nih.gov* .
Dated: April 18, 2007. Steven M. Ferguson, Director, Division of Technology Development and Transfer, Office of Technology Transfer, National Institutes of Health. [FR Doc. E7-7927 Filed 4-25-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4140-01-P DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES National Institutes of Health Government-Owned Inventions; Availability for Licensing AGENCY: National Institutes of Health, Public Health Service, HHS. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: The inventions listed below are owned by an agency of the U.S.
Government and are available for licensing in the U.S. in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 207 to achieve expeditious commercialization of results of federally-funded research and development. Foreign patent applications are filed on selected inventions to extend market coverage for companies and may also be available for licensing. ADDRESSES: Licensing information and copies of the U.S. patent applications listed below may be obtained by writing to the indicated licensing contact at the Office of Technology Transfer, National Institutes of Health, 6011 Executive Boulevard, Suite 325, Rockville, Maryland 20852-3804; telephone: 301/496-7057; fax: 301/402-0220.
A signed Confidential Disclosure Agreement will be required to receive copies of the patent applications. Biotinylated Alkylating Acridine for Pull-downs of Viral Pre-integration Complexes
(PIC)or Other Cytosol Localized DNAs *Description of Technology:* The invention describes a DNA-binding molecule that allows recovery of viral DNA and associated proteins. An acridine orange based molecule was modified and the resulting alkylating acridine molecule intercalates with viral pre-integration complexes
(PIC)or other DNAs localized in cytosol. Because the molecule is also biotinylated, streptavidin beads can be used to purify the molecule and the bound DNA and associated protein can subsequently be eluted and analyzed. The invention provides a useful tool to facilitate the studies for viral PIC and other cytosol DNAs. *Applications:* Research Tool. *Development Status:* *In vitro* data available. *Inventors:* Gunnar Thor Gunnarsson and Rafal Wierzchoslawski (NCI). *Patent Status:* HHS Reference No. E-131-2007/0—Research Tool. *Licensing Status:* Available for non-exclusive licensing as biological material and research tool. *Licensing Contact:* Sally Hu, Ph.D.; 301/435-5606; *HuS@mail.nih.gov* . Structure of TIM Family Members *Description of Technology:* Available for licensing and commercial development are methods to produce and/or enhance therapeutic agents based on models of the three-dimensional structures of the Ig-like domains of various TIM family members to a) develop agonists and antagonists of the T-cell immunoglobulin mucin
(TIM)family of receptors and b) design specific TIM receptor-mutants with altered binding capabilities. The TIM receptors are involved in the regulation of immune responses, tissue regeneration, cancer, and viral cell entry. The invention provides models of the three-dimensional structures of the Ig-like domains of TIM family members developed after several crystal structures were resolved. The structures were further validated by mutagenesis and biochemical analysis. The TIM family comprises type 1 integral membrane glycoproteins containing a characteristic six-cysteine Ig-like domain extended above the cell surface by a mucin-like domain. The crystal structures revealed diverse homophylic interactions between TIM family members. The three-dimensional structure of all TIM family members can be used in the making of agonists and antagonists of homophilic, heterophilic, and ligand interactions of these receptors. *Applications:* 1. Therapies that target the interaction of TIM family members with their ligands, such as small molecules or monoclonal antibodies, can control immune responses and the development of a variety of diseases. 2. TIM receptor-mutants with enhanced, reduced, or destroyed binding capabilities to ligands and TIM family receptors can control TIM receptor-functions. 3. Furthermore, the homophylic, heterophylic, and ligand interactions between the TIM receptors and the TIM receptor-mutants can be used as targets to develop therapeutic agents for medical and veterinary purposes, to prevent viral infection, regulate immune responses, modulate cell adhesion and tissue regeneration, treat and prevent cancer, and treat autoimmune and atopic diseases. Development Status: The technology is in early stages of development. *Inventors:* Gerardo Kaplan (CBER/FDA), *et al.* *Related Publications:* 1. C Santiago, A Ballesteros, C Tami, L Martínez-Muñoz, GG Kaplan, JM Casasnovas. Structures of T cell immunoglobulin mucin receptors 1 and 2 reveal mechanisms for regulation of immune responses by the TIM receptor family. Immunity. 23 Mar 2007;26(3):299-310. 2. A Anderson, S Xiao, VK Kuchroo. Tim protein structures reveal a unique face for ligand binding. Immunity. 23 Mar 2007;26(3):273-275. *Patent Status:* U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/865,642 filed 13 Nov 2006 (HHS Reference No. E-098-2006/0-US-01) *Licensing Status:* Available for non-exclusive or exclusive licensing. *Licensing Contact:* Cristina Thalhammer-Reyero, Ph.D., M.B.A.; 301/435-4507; *thalhamc@mail.nih.gov* . A Method With Increased Yield for Production of Polysaccharide-Protein Conjugate Vaccines Using Hydrazide Chemistry *Description of Technology:* Current methods for synthesis and manufacturing of polysaccharide-protein conjugate vaccines employ conjugation reactions with low efficiency (about twenty percent). This means that up to eighty percent of the added activated polysaccharide
(PS)is lost. In addition, inclusion of a chromatographic process for purification of the conjugates from unconjugated PS is required. The present invention utilizes the characteristic chemical property of hydrazide groups on one reactant to react with aldehyde groups or cyanate esters on the other reactant with an improved conjugate yield of at least sixty percent. With this conjugation efficiency the leftover unconjugated protein and polysaccharide would not need to be removed and thus the purification process of the conjugate product can be limited to diafiltration to remove the by-products of small molecules. The new conjugation reaction can be carried out within one or two days with reactant concentrations between 1 and 25 mg/mL at PS/protein ratios from 1:2 to 3:1, at temperatures between 4 and 40 degrees Centigrade, and in a pH range of 5.5 to 7.4, optimal conditions varying from PS to PS. *Application:* Cost effective and efficient manufacturing of conjugate vaccines. *Inventors:* Che-Hung Robert Lee and Carl E. Frasch (CBER/FDA) *Patent Status:* U.S. Patent Application No. 10/566,899 filed 01 Feb 2006, claiming priority to 06 Aug 2003 (HHS Reference No. E-301-2003/0-US-10); U.S. Patent Application No. 10/566,898 filed 01 Feb 2006, claiming priority to 06 Aug 2003 (HHS Reference No. E-301-2003/1-US-02); International rights available. *Licensing Status:* Available for non-exclusive licensing. *Licensing Contact:* Peter A. Soukas, J.D.; 301/435-4646; *soukasp@mail.nih.gov* . Identification of Anti-HIV Compounds Inhibiting Virus Assembly and Binding of Nucleocapsid Protein to Nucleic Acid *Description of Technology:* The subject invention identified two groups of active anti-viral compounds. The first group comprises aromatic, antimony-containing compounds, while the second group comprises aromatic tricarboxylic acid. Both groups were shown to inhibit viral particle assembly and inhibit the binding of nucleocapsid protein to nucleic acid. Recently, the first group also demonstrated the capability of blocking HIV-1 viral entry into CD4+ cells through binding to CD4 and inhibiting gp120-CD4 interaction, and they are well tolerated *in vivo* . Hence, these compounds are potent inhibitors of HIV and act via a novel mechanism, ideal for developing a new generation of anti-HIV medicine. *Applications:* HIV treatment and prevention. *Development Status:* *In vivo* preclinical data available, including data from efficacy, pharmacokinetics and preliminary toxicity studies. *Inventors:* Robert H. Shoemaker (NCI), Michael J. Currens (NCI), Alan R. Rein (NCI), Ya-xiong Feng (NCI), Robert J. Fisher (SAIC/NCI), Andrew G. Stephen (SAIC/NCI), Karen Worthy (SAIC/NCI), Shizuko Sei (SAIC/NCI), Bruce Crise (SAIC/NCI), Louis E. Henderson (SAIC/NCI). *Related Publication:* QE Yang et al. Discovery of small-molecule human immunodeficiency virus type 1 entry inhibitors that target the gp120-binding domain of CD4. J Virol. 2005 May;79(10):6122-6133. *Patent Status:* U.S. Patent Application No. 10/528,747 filed 22 Mar 2005 (HHS Reference No. E-121-2002/0-US-03); European Patent Application No. 03773233.6 filed 08 May 2005 (HHS Reference No. E-121-2002/0-EP-04). *Licensing Status:* Available for exclusive and non-exclusive licensing. *Licensing Contact:* Sally Hu, Ph.D.; 301/435-5606; *HuS@mail.nih.gov* . *Collaborative Research Opportunity:* The NCI HIV DRP Retroviral Replication Laboratory is seeking statements of capability or interest from parties interested in collaborative research to further develop, evaluate, or commercialize these active anti-viral compounds. Please contact John D. Hewes, Ph.D. at 301-435-3121 or *hewesj@mail.nih.gov* for more information. Monoclonal Antibodies Specific for the E2 Glycoprotein of Hepatitis C Virus and Their Use in the Diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention of Hepatitis C *Description of Technology:* Hepatitis C virus is an enveloped, single-stranded RNA virus, approximately 50 nm in diameter, that has been classified as a separate genus in the Flaviviridae family. Most persons infected with hepatitis C virus develop chronic infection. These chronically infected individuals have a relatively high risk of developing chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. There is currently no vaccine to prevent the hepatitis C virus infection. The present invention relates to human monoclonal antibodies which exhibit immunological binding affinity for the hepatitis C virus E2 glycoprotein and are cross-reactive against different hepatitis C virus strains. These antibodies may be used in passive immunoprophylaxis for the prevention of hepatitis C virus infection and/or in passive immunotherapy for the treatment of hepatitis C. *Applications:* In vitro diagnostic assay for identifying patients infected with hepatitis C virus and contaminated blood samples; method of preventing infection using monoclonal antibodies that neutralize E2 glycoproteins from different genotypes of hepatitis C virus. *Market:* Over 4 million people in the U.S. are infected with hepatitis C virus. An estimated 150 to 200 million people are infected with hepatitis C virus worldwide. *Inventors:* Suzanne U. Emerson (NIAID), Robert H. Purcell (NIAID), Harvey J. Alter (NIAID), *et al.* *Related Publication:* DJ Schofield *et al.* Human monoclonal antibodies that react with the E2 glycoprotein of hepatitis C virus and possess neutralizing activity. Hepatology. 2005 Nov;42(5):1055-1062. *Patent Status:* U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/250,561, filed 01 Dec 2000 (HHS Reference No. E-017-2001/0-US-01); PCT Application No. PCT/US01/45221, filed 30 Nov 2001, published as WO 02/055560 on 18 Jul 2002 (HHS Reference No. E-017-2001/0-PCT-02); U.S. Patent Application No. 10/432,006 filed 16 May 2003, issued as U.S. Patent No. 6,924,362 on 02 Aug 2005 (HHS Reference No. E-017-2001/0-US-03) *Licensing Contact:* Chekesha S. Clingman, Ph.D.; 301/435-5018; *clingmac@mail.nih.gov* . *Collaborative Research Opportunity:* The NIAID Laboratory of Infectious Diseases is seeking statements of capability or interest from parties interested in collaborative research to further develop, evaluate, or commercialize these monoclonal antibodies. For more information, please contact Robert H. Purcell, M.D., Co-chief, Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, 50 South Drive, Bldg. 50, Rm. 6523, Bethesda, MD 20892-8009; Phone
(301)496-5090; Fax
(301)402-0524. Major Neutralization Site of Hepatitis E Virus and Use of This Neutralization Site in Methods of Vaccination *Description of Technology:* Hepatitis E is endemic in many countries throughout the developing world, in particular on the continents of Africa and Asia. The disease generally affects young adults and has a very high mortality rate, up to 20%, in pregnant women. This invention relates to the identification of a neutralization site of hepatitis E virus
(HEV)and neutralizing antibodies that react with it. The neutralization site is located on a polypeptide from the ORF2 gene (capsid gene) of HEV. This neutralization site was identified using a panel of chimpanzee monoclonal antibodies that are virtually identical to human antibodies. Since this neutralization site is conserved among genetically divergent strains of HEV, the neutralizing monoclonal antibodies may be useful in the diagnosis, treatment and/or prevention of hepatitis E. Furthermore, immunogens that encompass this neutralization site may be used in vaccination to effectively prevent, and/or reduce the incidence of HEV infection. Polypeptides containing this neutralization site may be useful in evaluating vaccine candidates for the production of neutralizing antibodies to HEV. *Inventors:* Suzanne U. Emerson (NIAID), Robert H. Purcell (NIAID), *et al.* *Related Publications:* 1. YH Zhou *et al.* A truncated ORF2 protein contains the most immunogenic site on ORF2: antibody responses to non-vaccine sequences following challenge of vaccinated and non-vaccinated macaques with HEV. Vaccine 2005 May 2;23(24):3157-3165. 2. DJ Schofield *et al.* Monoclonal antibodies that neutralize HEV recognize an antigenic site at the carboxyterminus of an ORF2 protein vaccine. Vaccine 2003 Dec 12;22(2):257-267. 3. YH Zhou *et al.* An ELISA for putative neutralizing antibodies to hepatitis E virus detects antibodies to genotypes 1, 2, 3, and 4. Vaccine 2004 Jun 30;22(20):2578-2585. *Patent Status:* U.S. Patent No. 6,930,176, issued 16 Aug 2005 (HHS Reference No. E-043-2000/0-US-04); EP Application 00982311.3, filed on 30 Nov 2000, published as 1235862 on 04 Sept 2002 (HHS Reference No. E-043-2000/0-EP-03); U.S. Patent No. 7,148,323, issued 12 Dec 2006 (HHS Reference No. E-043-2000/0-US-05) *Licensing Contact:* Chekesha S. Clingman, Ph.D.; 301/435-5018; *clingmac@mail.nih.gov* . *Collaborative Research Opportunity:* The NIAID Laboratory of Infectious Diseases is seeking statements of capability or interest from parties interested in collaborative research to further develop, evaluate, or commercialize these antibodies or structures they interact with. For more information, please contact Robert H. Purcell, M.D., Co-chief, Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, 50 South Drive, Bldg. 50, Rm. 6523, Bethesda, MD 20892-8009; Phone
(301)496-5090; Fax
(301)402-0524. Dated: April 17, 2007. Steven M. Ferguson, Director, Division of Technology Development and Transfer, Office of Technology Transfer, National Institutes of Health. [FR Doc. E7-7930 Filed 4-25-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4140-01-P DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES National Institutes of Health Government-Owned Inventions; Availability for Licensing AGENCY: National Institutes of Health, Public Health Service, HHS. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: The inventions listed below are owned by an agency of the U.S. Government and are available for licensing in the U.S. in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 207 to achieve expeditious commercialization of results of federally-funded research and development. Foreign patent applications are filed on selected inventions to extend market coverage for companies and may also be available for licensing. ADDRESSES: Licensing information and copies of the U.S. patent applications listed below may be obtained by writing to the indicated licensing contact at the Office of Technology Transfer, National Institutes of Health, 6011 Executive Boulevard, Suite 325, Rockville, Maryland 20852-3804; telephone: 301/496-7057; fax: 301/402-0220. A signed Confidential Disclosure Agreement will be required to receive copies of the patent applications. GDF15, a Marker and Cause of Morbidity in Thalassemia *Description of Technology:* The invention includes methods for the measurement of Growth Differentiation Factor 15 (GDF15, also known as MIC-1 or NAG-1) levels in order to diagnose or predict disease severity in patients with thalassemia and with related complications, as well as methods for treating thalassemia by administration of a GDF15 antagonist. Also disclosed is a method to reduce hepcidin levels by administration of GDF15, a GDF15 substitute, or GDF15 agonist. GDF15 is a member of the TGF-Beta superfamily of proteins, which are known to control cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis in numerous cell types. The inventors are additionally interested in investigating the role of GDF15 in other disorders characterized by ineffective erythropoiesis, as well as the role of GDF15 in the regulation of iron metabolism. Thalassemia consists of a group of inherited diseases of the red blood cells, arising from deficient or absent production of globin chains. In beta-thalassemia, also known as Cooley's anemia or Mediterranean anemia, defective globin production reduces the number and viability of red blood cells, causing anemia and subsequent expansion of bone marrow. As a result of marrow expansion distorted bone formation ensues. Beta thalassemia, the most severe form of thalassemia, also results in iron overload, which is the major cause of beta-thalassemia mortality worldwide. As a result of iron overload, the patient may develop hypropituitarism, hypothyroidism, hypoparathyrodism, diabetes, arthropathy, cirrhosis and cardiopulmonary disease. Treatment of beta-thalassemia involves frequent blood transfusions and chelation therapy to remove excess iron from the blood. In thalassemia, the patient's hepcidin expression is pathologically suppressed. Hepcidin is a protein synthesized in the liver, which reduces iron absorption in the body. The inventors have identified GDF15 as a hepcidin-suppressing cytokine that is overexpressed in thalassemia. GDF15 levels in blood plasma have been found to be dramatically elevated in beta-thalassemia patients compared to healthy donors and patients with hereditary hemochromatosis, another form of iron overload disease. *Applications:* 1. Diagnostic test to detect increased risk for thalassemia-related complications. 2. Treatment of thalassemia by administration of a GDF15 antagonist. 3. Treatment of iron-dysregulated diseases. 4. Treatment of ineffective erythropoiesis. 5. Treatment of anemia of chronic disease. *Market:* Thalassemia is a growing global public health problem. It is estimated that seven percent of the world's population are carriers, with about 400,000 affected babies born each year. Approximately 1,000 people in the United States currently have beta-thalassemia; however, the number of patients is expected to grow. Prevalence of the disease is higher in those of Mediterranean descent and those from China, India and other Asian countries. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration classifies thalassemia as a rare or orphan disease. *Development Status:* Early stage. *Inventors:* Jeffery L. Miller and Toshihiko Tanno (NIDDK). *Publications:* In Review. *Patent Status:* U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/864,705 filed 07 Nov. 2006 (HHS Reference No. E-022-2007/0-US-01). *Licensing Status:* Available for exclusive or nonexclusive licensing. *Licensing Contact:* Tara L. Kirby, PhD; 301/435-4426; *tarak@mail.nih.gov.* *Collaborative Research Opportunity:* The NIDDK's Molecular Medicine Branch is seeking statements of capability or interest from parties interested in collaborative research to further develop, evaluate, or commercialize the role of GDF15 in other disorders characterized by ineffective erythropoiesis, as well as the role of GDF15 in the regulation of iron metabolism. Please contact Dr. Jeffery L. Miller at *Jeff.Miller1@nih.hhs.gov* or 301/402-2373 for more information. Methods for Treating Autoimmune Inflammatory Disease by Blocking DR3-TL1A Interactions *Description of Technology:* As a group, autoimmune inflammatory diseases occur in greater than five percent of the United States population, and represent the fourth-largest cause of disability among women. This disease group includes asthma, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus, among others. Treatments generally include immunosuppressants or anti-inflammatory drugs; recently, more specific immunomodulatory therapies such as TNF-alpha antagonists have been developed. The invention discloses methods for treatment of autoimmune inflammatory disease by blocking the interaction between one particular TNF family ligand, TL1A (or TNFSF15), and its receptor, DR3 (or TNFRSF25). The inventors have shown that the DR3-TL1A interaction is critical for development of disease in mouse models of asthma and multiple sclerosis. Additionally, mice lacking the DR3 receptor have normal immune system development and response to immune challenge. Thus, a treatment for autoimmune disease that blocks the DR3-TL1A interaction may provide a potent therapy without inducing global immunosuppression. *Applications:* Development of therapeutics for autoimmune inflammatory disease. *Market:* More than five percent of the United States population has an autoimmune disease; The market size for rheumatoid arthritis is predicted to be $10 billion by 2008. *Development Status:* Early stage. *Inventors:* Richard M. Siegel and Francoise Meylan (NIAMS). *Patent Status:* U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/879,668 filed 10 Jan 2007 (HHS Reference No. E-011-2007/0-US-01). *Licensing Status:* Available for exclusive or non-exclusive licensing. *Licensing Contact:* Tara Kirby, PhD; 301/435-4426; *tarak@mail.nih.gov.* Genetic Markers for Body Size in Dogs *Description of Technology:* Dogs exhibit the greatest diversity in body size of any mammalian species. To explore the genetic basis for size variation among dogs, the inventors compared the DNA of various small dog breeds to larger dog breeds. They found that variation in one gene, IGF-1, which codes for the protein hormone insulin-like growth factor 1, is very strongly associated with small stature across all dog breeds studied. An important determinant of body size in mammals, IGF-1 induces cell growth and differentiation and is a potent inhibitor of apoptosis. Analysis of DNA from over 3,000 dogs and 143 breeds revealed a specific IGF-1 gene sequence variant, or haplotype, associated with small size in the canine genetic code. The invention discloses markers defining chromosomal haplotypes associated with adult body size in dogs. Also claimed are methods and kits for predicting adult body size in dogs using these markers. A genetic test based on this invention would be of use to breeders wishing to predict a dog's size, and thus its conformance to the breed standard, at adulthood. *Applications:* Canine genetic test to predict adult body size. Market: In 2006, over 1.7 million purebred dogs competed in American Kennel Club-sanctioned conformance shows in the United States. *Development Status:* Early stage. *Inventors:* Elaine A. Ostrander and Nathaniel B. Sutter (NHGRI). *Publication:* N Sutter *et al.* A single IGF1 allele is a major determinant of small size in dogs. Science 2007 Apr 6;316(5821):112-115, doi: 10.1126/science.1137045. *Patent Status:* U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/856,411 filed 02 Nov 2006 (HHS Reference No. E-009-2007/0-US-01). *Licensing Status:* Available for non-exclusive licensing. *Licensing Contact:* Tara L. Kirby, PhD.; 301/435-4426; *tarak@mail.nih.gov.* A Neuronal Avalanche Size
(NAS)Assay to Screen for Cognitive Enhancers and Anti-Epileptics *Description of Technology:* Currently available methods of detecting and measuring EEG activity only crudely classify normal and abnormal activity or distinguish epileptic activity early in the onset of its deviation from normal activity. Available for licensing are methods for recognizing a new pattern of EEG activity called neuronal avalanche size
(NAS)that has been correlated with cognitive function and epilepsy. The NAS uses extracellular field potentials to measure the distribution of synchronized neurons in the cortex (neuronal avalanches) and thus the state of the cortical network. When the avalanche size reaches a power law with a slope of − 3/2 , the system is in the critical state and the cortical network is functioning optimally to spread information throughout the network. If the system slope deviates from − 3/2 , the system is outside the critical state and is either epileptic or sub-critical. In animal studies measurement of NAS quantified a drug's potential to increase cognitive functioning and induce or reduce epilepsy. The NAS assay may thus enable high-throughput *in vitro* screens to select anti-epileptics and cognitive enhancing drugs for continued drug development. Because avalanches represent scale-invariant dynamics they can also be recorded using surface
(EEG)electrodes. This technology may thus be useful in assessing cognitive function, epileptic pathology and in selecting and monitoring drug therapy for epileptic patients. *Applications:* 1. *In vitro* screen to assess drugs for potential use as anti-epileptics for drugs with the propensity to cause epilepsy. 2. *In vitro* screen to assess drugs with the ability to enhance cognitive function, and ultimately, relieve cognitive defects associated with psychiatric illnesses and neurological disorders. 3. EEG monitoring of patients for diagnosis and drug selection and monitoring. *Market:* 1. Epilepsy affects approximately 2.7 million people in the United States, and over 50 million people worldwide. 2. The cost of epilepsy in the United States is $12.8 billion per year, where eighty percent of this cost is due to patients with intractable seizures. 3. The cost for developing and commercializing new drugs is approximately $1 billion. 4. Schizophrenia affects about 1 out of 100 people in the United States, resulting in a public health burden of $40 billion per year in the U.S. alone. 5. Atypical neuroleptics alleviate cognitive deficits in schizophrenia and are now prescribed to more than 70 percent of all schizophrenic patients, totaling annual sales of $8.7 billion in 2003. 6. Atypical neuroleptics have variable efficacy in alleviating symptoms, and act on multiple, poorly understood pathways simultaneously resulting in many side effects. 7. The proposed *in vitro* screen could tremendously facilitate the development of more efficient and selective psychotropic drugs to alleviate cognitive deficits in schizophrenia. *Development Status:* *In vivo* and *in vitro* data are available. *Inventors:* Dietmar Plenz (NIMH). *Publications:* 1. JM Beggs, D Plenz. Neuronal avalanches in neocortical circuits. J Neurosci. 2003 Dec 3;23(35):11167-77. 2. CV Stewart, D Plenz. Inverted-U profile of dopamine-NMDA-mediated spontaneous avalanche recurrence in superficial layers of rat prefrontal cortex. J Neurosci. 2006 Aug 2;26(31):8148-59. *Patent Status:* U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/707,651 filed 12 Aug 2005 (HHS Reference No. E-294-2005/0-US-01); PCT Application No. PCT/US2006/031884 filed 14 Aug 2006 (HHS Reference No. E-294-2005/1-PCT-01). *Licensing Status:* Available for exclusive or non-exclusive licensing. *Licensing Contact:* Norbert Pontzer, J.D., Ph.D.; 301/435-5502; *pontzern@mail.nih.gov.* *Collaborative Research Opportunity:* The NIMH/Section of Neural Network physiology is seeking statements of capability or interest from parties interested in collaborative research to further develop, evaluate, or commercialize the NAS assay. Please contact Dietmar Plenz at *plenzd@mail.nih.gov* for more information. Method for Promoting Stem Cell Proliferation and Survival *Description of Technology:* This technology describes a method to promote stem cell survival and proliferation by manipulating the phosphorylation state of Stat3 protein. This method has been shown to enhance survival and proliferation in stem cell cultures *in vitro,* and also in neuronal precursor cells *in vivo.* The methods include use of a Notch ligand and growth factors such as FGF 2 or insulin to promote neural stem cell survival and proliferation. The technology is also directed to a population of stem cells expressing STAT3 phosphorylated at serine 727. *Applications:* 1. Clinical treatment for stroke and other neurodegenerative diseases by administration of agents that promote stem cell survival and proliferation. 2. Increased generation of stem cells *in vitro.* 3. Screening assays for agents that promote proliferation of stem cells or inhibit proliferation of cancer cells. 4. Diagnostic assay for cancer to determine the phosphorylation state of the protein in tumors. *Market:* 1. Prognostic marker to help determine response of individuals with cancer. 2. Commercial suppliers or large-scale users of stem cells. *Development Status:* 1. A method of increasing proliferation and survival of stem cells or precursor cells *in vitro* has been developed. The cells produced by this method have been described in an article in Nature 2006 Aug 17;442(7104):823-826. 2. The method of increasing proliferation and survival of stem cells is efficacious in *in vivo* rodent models of Parkinson's disease and stroke. *Inventors:* Andreas Androutsellis-Theotokis and Ronald D.G. McKay (NINDS). Publication: A Androutsellis-Theotokis et al. Notch signalling regulates stem cell numbers *in vitro* and *in vivo.* Nature 2006 Aug 17;442(7104):823-826. *Patent Status:* 1. U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/715,935 filed 08 Sep 2005 (HHS Reference No. E-239-2005/0-US-01). 2. PCT Application No. PCT/US2006/034988 filed 07 Sep 2006 (HHS Reference No. E-239-2005/0-PCT-02). *Licensing Status:* Available for non-exclusive or exclusive licensing. *Licensing Contact:* Fatima Sayyid, M.H.P.M.; 301/435-4521; *sayyidf@mail.nih.gov.* *Collaborative Research Opportunity:* The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Laboratory of Molecular Biology, is seeking statements of capability or interest from parties interested in collaborative research to further develop, evaluate, or commercialize agents that inhibit or induce phosphorylation of STAT3 protein and survival of stem cells and precursor cells. Please contact Martha Lubet at 301/435-3120 or *lubetm@mail.nih.gov.* Preparation and Use of Androgenic Compounds: Nandrolone 17beta-carbonates *Description of Invention:* Hypogonadism is defined as deficient or absent male gonadal function that results in insufficient testosterone secretion. Hypogonadism can be caused by surgery; radiation; genetic and developmental disorders; liver and kidney disease; infection; and certain auto-immune disorders. The most common genetic disorders are Klinefelter syndrome found in men and Turner syndrome in women. Hypogonadism affects an estimated 4 to 5 million men in the United States, and although it may occur in men at any age, low testosterone levels are especially common in older males. More than 60% of men over age 65 have free testosterone levels below the normal values of men aged 30 to 35. Studies suggest that hypogonadism in adult men is often underdiagnosed and under treated. This may be because the symptoms are easily attributed to aging or other medical causes, or ignored by patients and physicians. In fact, only about 5% of hypogonadal men receive testosterone replacement. Some experts also believe that we need to reevaluate normal testosterone levels and lower the diagnostic cutoff for hypogonadism. By doing so, many patients who we now consider to be “low-normal” would probably be considered candidates for androgen replacement. The inventors have discovered androgenic compounds, the lead compound being 17beta-carbonates of nandrolone derivatives. These compounds can be used to treat hypogonadism, as hormonal therapy and as a male contraceptive. The disclosed carbonates have potent activity when administered as an oral composition. In addition, long-lasting activity has also been observed with subcutaneous administration in laboratory animals. It is foreseen that these androgens can be utilized in hormonal replacement therapy for both men and women, which constitute a huge market both in the United States and abroad. *Inventors:* Richard P. Blye and Hyun K. Kim (NICHD). *Patent Status:* U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/650,376 filed 04 Feb 2005 (HHS Reference No. E-181-2004/0-US-01); PCT Application No. PCT/US2006/02436 filed 24 Jan 2006 (HHS Reference No. E-181-2004/0-PCT-02). *Licensing Status:* Available for non-exclusive or exclusive licensing. *Licensing Contact:* Tara L. Kirby, PhD; 301/435-4426; tarak@mail.nih.gov. *Collaborative Research Opportunity:* The NICHD Contraception & Reproductive Health Branch is seeking statements of capability or interest from parties interested in collaborative research to further develop, evaluate, or commercialize this technology. Please contact John D. Hewes, Ph.D. at 301-435-3121 or *hewesj@mail.nih.gov* for more information. Neural Crest-Melanocyte cDNA Based Microarray Analysis for Human Skin Pigmentation Research *Description of Technology:* Microarrays have wide applications in basic research and are used for the discovery of candidate genes as markers for disease and for therapeutic intervention. This invention pertains to the identification of a set of neural crest-melanocyte (NC-M) genes through microarray analysis and informatic analysis. Utilizing the extensive sequence information in the expressed sequence tag database (dbEST), the specific set of cDNA sequence was identified for microarray analysis of melanocyte function and diseases. This integrated technique of sequencing with bioinformatics led to the discovery of novel genes. The cDNA sequences selected in this invention are differently expressed in neural crest melanocyte derivates relative to non-neural derived samples. Given that many of the neural-crest melanocyte genes are expressed at embryonic stages of neural crest-melanocyte development, the gene set identified in this invention should provide a useful tool for the analysis of patterns of transcriptional regulation of NC-M development. Thus, this technology will be useful for the characterization of altered expression patterns in diseases such as melanoma. Further, this new microarray research tool has been developed using the set of genes that are likely to be involved in the control of human skin pigmentation. The microarray system utilizing these genes is of significant importance in identifying small molecules that may modulate their activity leading to alterations in human skin pigmentation. Therefore, this invention is significantly useful to the researchers to study alterations in human skin pigment amount and type. *Inventors:* William J. Pavan and Stacie K. Loftus (NHGRI). *Patent Status:* HHS Reference No. E-014-2002/0—Research Tool. *Licensing Status:* Available for licensing under a Biological Materials License. *Licensing Contact:* Tara L. Kirby, PhD; 301/435-4426; *tarak@mail.nih.gov.* RAB38, a Target for Treatment of Melanoma and Pigmentation Disorders *Description of Technology:* Melanocytes are specialized pigment-producing cells that are responsible for coloration of skin, eyes and hair. Using cDNA microarray expression profiling, the inventors have identified RAB38, a small GTP-binding protein, as an important gene involved in melanocyte function. Human RAB38 was localized to the mouse chocolate
(cht)locus, and mutation of this gene in mice changes hair color from black to brown, similar to OCAIII mice, which have a mutation in TYRP1, another melanosomal gene, and are used as a model for oculocutaneous albinism. The inventors have demonstrated that RAB38 is important for trafficking of the TYRP1 protein; thus, RAB38 mutant mice are genocopies of TYRP1 mutant mice. Modulation of RAB38 activity, such as by pharmacologic intervention, might alter pigmentation in human skin. Recently, RAB38 has also been identified as a melanocyte differentiation antigen that is strongly immunogenic, leading to spontaneous antibody responses in a significant proportion of melanoma patients. Thus, RAB38 may also have applications for melanoma diagnostics and treatment. This invention discloses RAB38 nucleic acids and protein, and methods for detecting mutations in RAB38. Also disclosed are methods for screening for agents to modulate RAB38 activity, and for modulating pigmentation through modulation of RAB38 activity. *Applications:* 1. Marker protein and target for antigen-specific immunotherapy in patients with malignant melanoma. 2. Therapeutics and diagnostics for melanin-related disorders. *Development Status:* Early stage. *Inventors:* William J. Pavan and Stacie K. Loftus (NHGRI). *Publications:* Stacie K. Loftus, Denise M. Larson, Laura L. Baxter, Anthony Antonellis, Yidong Chen, Xufeng Wu, Yuan Jiang, Michael Bittner, John A. Hammer III, and William J. Pavan. Mutation of melanosome protein RAB38 in chocolate mice. Proc Natl Acad Sci U.S.A. 2002 Apr 2;99(7):4471-4476. *Patent Status:* 1. U.S. National Stage Application No. 10/501,611 filed 20 Nov 2005, claiming priority to 18 Jan 2002 (HHS Reference No. E-315-2001/0-US-07). 2. Foreign counterparts pending in Australia, Canada, Europe, and Japan. *Licensing Status:* Available for exclusive or non-exclusive licensing. *Licensing Contact:* Tara L. Kirby, Ph.D; 301/435-4426; *tarak@mail.nih.gov.* Novel Dmt-Tic Analogues Specific for Delta- and Mu-Opioid Receptors *Description of Technology:* Opioid receptor modulators, used historically for pain control, have more recently been shown to possess broader therapeutic potential in areas such as opiate and alcohol abuse, neurological disease or injury, neuropeptide or neurotransmitter imbalance, and immune system dysfunction. Furthermore, their interaction with key reward pathways presents interesting avenues for exploration in the treatment of food as an addictive substance, due to the fact that obesity is a major health problem in the U.S. Also, evidence of modulatory interactions between delta- and mu-opioid receptors has spurred interest in new opioid ligands possessing mixed and dual specificity for these receptors. These bifunctional compounds are particularly promising for treatment of addiction and treatment of pain with the elimination of drug tolerance. The inventors have developed a wide variety of highly selective Dmt-Tic analogues with potential therapeutic applications. These analogues include specific agonists and antagonists of the delta- and mu-opioid receptors and combinations thereof. Some disclosed analogues are di- and tri-peptidic derivatives of the Dmt-Tic pharmacophore; in addition to opioid receptor specificity, two of these derivatives have been shown to inhibit the activity of human multidrug resistance glycoprotein 1 (hMDR1) and may represent a novel chemosensitizing agent for treating cancer, and may also be used for reducing tolerance to morphine, the drug of choice in most hospitals around the world, thereby increasing its effectiveness. Also disclosed are compounds produced through derivatization of Dmt-Tic reference compounds with lysine, resulting in an unexpected and broad range of delta-and/or mu-opioid receptor modulation. The inventors have also prepared symmetric and asymmetric Dmt-Tic di-peptides that are potent dual delta- and mu-opioid receptor antagonists and that can pass through the gastrointestinal and blood-brain barriers. Finally, the inventors have prepared various fluorescent Dmt-Tic analogs that are useful for study of delta- and mu-opioid receptor structure and function. *Applications:* 1. Potential opiate, food, and alcohol addiction therapeutics. 2. Potential therapeutics for pain treatment. 3. Potential therapeutics for cancer. 4. Tools for screening ligand binding activity and differentiating between delta- and mu-opioid receptors. *Market:* 1. In 2004, approximately 22 million Americans over the age of 12 required treatment for alcohol or illicit drug abuse and addiction; 13 million of these were classified as alcoholics. 2. Approximately 50 million Americans suffer from pain, and an estimated 1.5 billion people suffer from moderate to severe pain worldwide. 3. Two-thirds of the U.S. population is overweight, with a quarter designated as obese (9 million of whom are children); the number of overweight Americans doubled between 1980-1999 and is predicted to increase 20% by 2013 to 140 million. *Development Status:* *In vitro* data are available. *Inventors:* Lawrence H. Lazarus (NIEHS) et al. *Publications:* 1. G. Balboni et al. Effect of lysine at C-terminus of the Dmt-Tic opioid pharmacophore. J Med Chem. 2006 Sep 7;49(18):5610-5617. 2. T Lovekamp et al. Inhibition of human multidrug resistance P-glycoprotein 1 by analogues of a potent delta-opioid antagonist. Brain Res. 2001 May 25;902(1):131-134. 3. T Li et al. Potent Dmt-Tic pharmacophoric delta- and mu-opioid receptor antagonists. J Med Chem. 2005 Dec 15;48(25):8035-8044. 4. T Li et al. Transformation of a mu-opioid agonist into biologically potent mu-opioid antagonists. Bioorg Med Chem. 2007 Feb 1;15(3):1237-1251. 5. G. Balboni et al. Highly selective fluorescent analogue of the potent *elta-opioid receptor antagonist Dmt-Tic. J Med Chem. 2004 Dec 16:47(26):6541-6546. *Patent Status:* 1. U.S. Patent No. 6,753,317 issued 22 Jun 2004 (HHS Reference No. E-103-2000/0-US-02). 2. U.S. Patent No. 6,916,905 issued 12 Jul 2005 (HHS Reference No. E-103-2000/1-US-01). 3. U.S. Patent Application No. 10/280,752 filed 16 Nov 2005 (HHS Reference No. E-103-2000/2-US-02). 4. U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/834,438 filed 31 Jul 2006 (HHS Reference No. E-103-2000/3-US-01). 5. PCT Application No. PCT/US06/33560 filed 30 Aug 2006 (HHS Reference No. E-305-2005/0-PCT-02). *Licensing Status:* Available for exclusive or nonexclusive licensing. *Licensing Contact:* Tara L. Kirby, PhD; 301/435-4426; *tarak@mail.nih.gov.* Dated: April 17, 2007. Steven M. Ferguson, Director, Division of Technology Development and Transfer, Office of Technology Transfer, National Institutes of Health. [FR Doc. E7-7933 Filed 4-25-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4140-01-P DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Coast Guard [USCG-2007-27858] National Boating Safety Advisory Council; Vacancies AGENCY: Coast Guard, DHS. ACTION: Request for applications. SUMMARY: The Coast Guard seeks applications for membership on the National Boating Safety Advisory Council (NBSAC). NBSAC advises the Coast Guard on matters related to recreational boating safety. DATES: Application forms should reach us on or before August 17, 2007. ADDRESSES: You may request an application form by writing to Commandant, Office of Boating Safety (CG-3PCB-1), U.S. Coast Guard, 2100 Second Street, SW., Washington, DC 20593-0001; by calling 202-372-1062; or by faxing 202-372-1932. Send your application in written form to the above street address. This notice and the application form are also available on the Internet at: *http://www.uscgboating.org/nbsac/nbsac.htm.* FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Jeff Ludwig, Executive Secretary of NBSAC, telephone 202-372-1062, fax 202-372-1932, or e-mail: *jeffrey.a.ludwig@uscg.mil.* SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The National Boating Safety Advisory Council (NBSAC) is a Federal advisory committee under 5 U.S.C. App. 2. It advises the Coast Guard regarding regulations and other major boating safety matters. NBSAC's 21 members are drawn equally from the following three sectors of the boating community: State officials responsible for State boating safety programs, recreational boat and associated equipment manufacturers, and national recreational boating organizations and the general public. Members are appointed by the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. NBSAC normally meets twice each year at a location selected by the Coast Guard. When attending meetings of the Council, members are provided travel expenses and per diem. We will consider applications received in response to this notice for the following seven positions that expire or become vacant in December 2007: Two representatives of State officials responsible for State boating safety programs, three representatives of recreational boat and associated equipment manufacturers, and two representatives of the general public or national recreational boating organizations. Applicants are considered for membership on the basis of their particular expertise, knowledge, and experience in recreational boating safety. Prior applicants should submit an updated application to ensure consideration for the vacancies announced in this notice. Each member serves for a term of up to 3 years. Members may reapply to serve a consecutive term. In support of the policy of the U.S. Coast Guard on gender and ethnic diversity, we encourage qualified women and members of minority groups to apply. If you are selected as a member who represents the general public, we will require you to complete a Confidential Financial Disclosure Report (OGE Form 450). We may not release the report or the information in it to the public, except under an order issued by a Federal court or as otherwise provided under the Privacy Act (5 U.S.C. 552a). Dated: April 18, 2007. F.J. Sturm, Captain, U.S. Coast Guard, Acting Director of Inspections and Compliance. [FR Doc. E7-7947 Filed 4-25-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-15-P DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Coast Guard [CGD08-07-009] Lower Mississippi River Waterway Safety Advisory Committee AGENCY: Coast Guard, DHS. ACTION: Notice of meeting. SUMMARY: The Lower Mississippi River Waterway Safety Advisory Committee (LMRWSAC) will meet to discuss various issues relating to navigational safety on the Lower Mississippi River and related waterways. The meeting will be open to the public. DATES: The next meeting of LMRWSAC will be held on Wednesday, May 23, 2007, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. This meeting may adjourn early if all business is finished. Requests to make oral presentations or submit written materials for distribution at the meeting should reach the Coast Guard on or before May 9, 2007. Requests to have a copy of your material distributed to each member of the committee in advance of the meeting should reach the Coast Guard on or before May 9, 2007. ADDRESSES: The meeting will be held in the World Trade Center of New Orleans, 2 Canal Street, 18th Floor, New Orleans, LA 70130. This notice is available on the Internet at *http://dms.dot.gov.* FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Lieutenant Junior Grade
(LTJG)Thao Nguyen, Assistant Committee Administrator, e-mail *thao.v.nguyen@uscg.mil,* telephone
(504)589-6196 extension 369. Written materials and requests to make presentations should be mailed to Commanding Officer, USCG Sector New Orleans, Attn: Waterways Management, 1615 Poydras St, New Orleans, LA 70112. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Notice of this meeting is given under the Federal Advisory Committee Act, 5 U.S.C. App. 2. Agenda of Meeting *Lower Mississippi River Waterway Safety Advisory Committee (LMRWSAC).* The agenda includes the following:
(1)Introduction of committee members.
(2)Opening Remarks.
(3)Approval of the December 14, 2006 minutes.
(4)Old Business:
(a)Captain of the Port status report.
(b)VTS update report.
(c)Subcommittee / Working Group update reports.
(5)New Business.
(6)Adjournment. Procedural The meeting is open to the public. Please note that the meeting may close early if all business is finished. At the Chair's discretion, members of the public may make oral presentations during the meeting. If you would like to make an oral presentation at the meeting, please notify the Committee Administrator no later than May 9, 2007. Written material for distribution at the meeting should reach the Coast Guard no later than May 9, 2007. If you would like a copy of your material distributed to each member of the committee in advance of the meeting, please submit 25 copies to the Committee Administrator no later than May 9, 2007. Information on Services for Individuals with Disabilities For information on facilities or services for individuals with disabilities, or to request special assistance at the meetings, contact the Committee Administrator at the location indicated under Addresses as soon as possible. Dated: April 13, 2007. Richard G. Sullivan, Captain, U.S. Coast Guard, Commander, Eighth Coast Guard District, Acting. [FR Doc. E7-7941 Filed 4-25-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-15-P DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Coast Guard [USCG-2007-27656] High Frequency
(HF)Radio Broadcasts of Marine Weather Forecasts and Warnings AGENCY: Coast Guard, DHS. ACTION: Notice; request for public comments. SUMMARY: The Coast Guard is soliciting public comment on the need to continue providing high frequency
(HF)radio broadcasts of weather forecasts and warnings. Public comment is necessary in order to assess the demand for the HF radio broadcasts of weather forecasts in each of three forms:
(1)Radiofacsimile;
(2)voice; and,
(3)Simplex Teletype Over Radio (SITOR), also known as Narrow Band Direct Printing (NBDP). The infrastructure necessary to provide these services has exceeded its life expectancy; the equipment is no longer manufactured, repairs are difficult to accomplish, and spare parts generally are not available. Because of the very significant costs involved to continue these specific HF radio services, the Coast Guard requires information on the extent to which these services are used by the public and what alternative services are being used or are available to obtain weather forecasts and warnings. DATES: Comments and related material must reach the Docket Management Facility on or before August 24, 2007. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments identified by Coast Guard docket number USCG-2007-27656 to the Docket Management Facility at the U.S. Department of Transportation. To avoid duplication, please use only one of the following methods:
(1)Web Site: *http://dms.dot.gov*
(2)Mail: Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street SW., Washington, DC 20590-0001.
(3)Fax: 202-493-2251.
(4)Delivery: Room PL-401 on the Plaza level of the Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street SW., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The telephone number is 202-366-9329. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: If you have questions on this notice, please contact Mr. Russell S. Levin, Spectrum Management Division (CG-622), U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters, telephone: 202-475-3555, fax: 202-475-3927, or e-mail: *Russell.S.Levin@uscg.mil.* If you have questions on viewing or submitting material to the docket, call Renee V. Wright, Program Manager, Docket Operations, telephone 202-493-0402. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Request for Comments We encourage you to participate by submitting comments. All comments received will be posted, without change, to *http://dms.dot.gov* and will include any personal information you have provided. We have an agreement with the Department of Transportation
(DOT)to use the Docket Management Facility. Please see DOT's “Privacy Act” paragraph below. *Submitting comments:* If you submit a comment, please include your name and address, identify the docket number for this notice (USCG-2007-27656) and give the reason for each comment. You may submit your comments by electronic means, mail, fax, or delivery to the Docket Management Facility at the address under ADDRESSES ; but please submit your comments by only one means. If you submit them by mail or delivery, submit them in an unbound format, no larger than 8 1/2 by 11 inches, suitable for copying and electronic filing. If you submit them by mail and would like to know that they reached the Facility, please enclose a stamped, self-addressed postcard or envelope. We will consider all comments received during the comment period. *Viewing comments and documents:* To view comments, go to *http://dms.dot.gov* at any time, click on “Simple Search,” enter the last five digits of the docket number for this notice, and click on “Search.” You may also visit the Docket Management Facility in room PL-401 on the Plaza level of the Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street SW., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. *Privacy Act:* Anyone can search the electronic form of all comments received into any of our dockets by the name of the individual submitting the comment (or signing the comment, if submitted on behalf of an association, business, labor union, etc.). You may review the Department of Transportation's Privacy Act Statement in the **Federal Register** published on April 11, 2000 (65 FR 19477), or you may visit *http://dms.dot.gov.* Background and Purpose The Coast Guard broadcasts the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's
(NOAA)National Weather Service
(NWS)weather forecasts and warnings using 24 high frequency
(HF)radio transmitters (transmitting on frequencies between 3 and 30 MHz) located at seven Coast Guard communications stations in the United States and Guam. The range of these HF radio transmissions is dependent upon operating frequency, time of day and atmospheric conditions, and can vary from only short distances to several thousand miles. There are three types of HF radio broadcasts currently provided:
(1)Voice broadcasts that transmit a synthesized voice to announce the forecasts);
(2)radiofacsimile, also known as “radiofax” or “HF Fax” broadcasts, that transmit graphic weather maps and other graphic images over HF radio (maps are received using a dedicated radiofax receiver or a single sideband shortwave receiver connected to an external facsimile recorder or a personal computer equipped with a radiofax interface and application software); and,
(3)Simplex Teletype Over Radio (SITOR) broadcasts also known as Narrow Band Direct Printing (NBDP). The 24 HF transmitters employed to transmit weather forecasts and warnings are not, because of their age, providing the reliability the Coast Guard expects from its radio transmitters. These particular transmitters are no longer manufactured and replacement parts generally are not available, making it difficult, if not impossible, to repair them. If the HF weather broadcasts are to continue, the infrastructure necessary for the broadcasts must be replaced. Significant costs will be incurred to replace the requisite transmitters and associated infrastructure. Before seeking funds for this undertaking, the Coast Guard must gather evidence relating to how frequently, and under what circumstances, the maritime community uses the various types of HF radio weather broadcasts. In addition, it would be helpful to learn about current and future needs of the maritime community with regard to receiving weather forecasts and warnings over HF radio, and what alternatives are being used or might become available. *Questions:* The following are questions related to Coast Guard HF radio broadcasts on which we seek your comments. It would be helpful if commenters would answer the question as specifically as possible, and then provide explanations, if any, for the responses.
(1)What is your position in the maritime community? (Please be as specific as possible, *e.g.,* captain of 600′ oil tanker, 1st mate on 500 unit containership, owner/operator of 45′ cruising sailboat, fleet manager of a 27 vessel shipping company, yacht delivery captain, etc.)
(2)What are your primary sources for obtaining marine weather forecasts? (For example, Inmarsat-C/SafetyNet, USCG HF radio broadcasts, USCG medium frequency
(MF)Radio Broadcasts, USCG very high frequency
(VHF)radio broadcasts, NOAA Weather Radio, NAVTEX, shoreside Internet, radio/television, commercial service/system, etc.)
(3)Do you use Coast Guard HF radio voice broadcasts to receive marine weather forecasts? (Yes or No) If yes, how often do you use Coast Guard HF voice broadcasts and how critical are they to your safety and operation as compared to the other sources you listed in your response to Question 2?
(4)Do you use Coast Guard HF radiofax broadcasts to receive marine weather forecasts? (Yes or No) If yes, how often do you use Coast Guard HF radiofax broadcasts and how critical are they to your safety and operation as compared to the other sources you listed in your response to Question 2?
(5)Do you use Coast Guard HF radio Simplex Teletype over Radio (SITOR) (also known as Narrow Band Direct printing (NBDP)) to receive marine weather forecasts? (Yes or No) If yes, how often do you use Coast Guard SITOR radio broadcasts and how critical are they to your safety and operation as compared to the other sources you listed in your response to Question 2?
(6)What alternative source(s) for obtaining marine weather forecasts would you pursue if Coast Guard HF broadcasts were no longer available? How would you rate the alternative source(s) in terms of
(a)user cost and
(b)usefulness of the information as compared to the Coast Guard HF broadcast it replaces?
(7)Would the loss of Coast Guard HF marine weather broadcasts affect you? Please explain.
(8)How far seaward does your vessel primarily operate? (For example, coastal (0-25 nautical miles
(nm)seaward); offshore (25-200 nm seaward); or, high seas (more than 200 nm seaward.) In what geographic area(s) do you generally operate your vessel? (For example, mid-Atlantic, New England, North Central Pacific, Hawaii, Gulf of Mexico, etc.) As noted previously, comments regarding these questions, and any other pertinent matters brought to our attention during the comment period, will be taken into account in our future actions regarding the issues raised by these questions. Dated: April 18, 2007. C.S. Johnson, JR., Captain, U.S. Coast Guard, Acting Assistant Commandant for Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Information Technology. [FR Doc. E7-7945 Filed 4-25-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-15-P DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Federal Emergency Management Agency [FEMA-3274-EM] Indiana; Amendment No. 2 to Notice of an Emergency Declaration AGENCY: Federal Emergency Management Agency, DHS. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: This notice amends the notice of an emergency declaration for the State of Indiana (FEMA-3274-EM), dated March 12, 2007, and related determinations. EFFECTIVE DATE: April 17, 2007. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Magda Ruiz, Disaster Assistance Directorate, Federal Emergency Management Agency, Washington, DC 20472,
(202)646-2705. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The notice of an emergency declaration for the State of Indiana is hereby amended to include the following areas among those areas determined to have been adversely affected by the catastrophe declared an emergency by the President in his declaration of March 12, 2007: Porter, Steuben, and Wells Counties for emergency protective measures (Category B), including snow removal, under the Public Assistance program for any continuous 48-hour period during or proximate to the incident period. (The following Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Numbers
(CFDA)are to be used for reporting and drawing funds: 97.030, Community Disaster Loans; 97.031, Cora Brown Fund Program; 97.032, Crisis Counseling; 97.033, Disaster Legal Services Program; 97.034, Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA); 97.046, Fire Management Assistance; 97.048, Individuals and Households Housing; 97.049, Individuals and Households Disaster Housing Operations; 97.050, Individuals and Households Program-Other Needs, 97.036, Public Assistance Grants; 97.039, Hazard Mitigation Grant Program). R. David Paulison, Administrator, Federal Emergency Management Agency. [FR Doc. E7-7972 Filed 4-25-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 9110-10-P DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Fish and Wildlife Service Draft Recovery Plan for the Northern Spotted Owl ( Strix occidentalis caurina ) AGENCY: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior. ACTION: Notice of document availability for review and comment. SUMMARY: We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, announce the availability of the Draft Recovery Plan for the Northern Spotted Owl ( *Strix occidentalis caurina* ) (northern spotted owl) for public review and comment. DATES: Comments on the draft recovery plan must be received on or before June 25, 2007. We will also conduct four public meetings in order to receive oral comments about this plan. For dates, times, and locations, please refer to the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section of this notice. ADDRESSES: Comments on the plan can be sent electronically to *NSOplan@fws.gov,* or mailed to NSO Recovery Plan, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Ecological Services, 911 NE., 11th Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97232. Copies of the draft recovery plan will be available by request from the same Portland address (telephone: 503-231-2194). An electronic copy of the draft recovery plan is also available at: *http://www.fws.gov/pacific/ecoservices/endangered/recovery/plans.html* . FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Paul Phifer, Northern Spotted Owl Recovery Plan Project Manager, at the Portland address identified above (telephone 503-724-1886, fax 503-231-2050). SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Background Restoring endangered or threatened animals and plants to the point where they are again secure, self-sustaining members of their ecosystems is a primary goal of our endangered species program. The Endangered Species Act (16 U.S.C. 1531 *et seq.* )
(ESA)requires the development of recovery plans for listed species unless such a plan would not promote the conservation of a particular species. Recovery plans help guide the recovery effort by describing actions considered necessary for the conservation of the species, establishing criteria for downlisting or delisting listed species, and estimating time and cost for implementing the measures needed for recovery. Section 4(f) of the ESA requires that public notice, and an opportunity for public review and comment, be provided during recovery plan development. We will consider all information presented during the public comment period. Substantive comments on the recovery needs of the species or other aspects of recovery plan development may result in changes to the recovery plan. Substantive comments regarding recovery plan implementation may not necessarily result in changes to the recovery plan, but will be forwarded to appropriate Federal agencies or other entities so that they can take these comments into account during the course of implementing recovery actions. Individual responses to comments will not be provided. The northern spotted owl inhabits structurally complex forests from southwest British Columbia through the Cascade Mountains and coastal ranges in Washington, Oregon, and California, as far south as Marin County. When the northern spotted owl was listed under the ESA as a threatened species on June 26, 1990, the major threats were identified as widespread loss and adverse modification of suitable habitat across the owl's entire range and the inadequacy of existing regulatory mechanisms to conserve the owl. Currently, populations of northern spotted owls are declining, especially in the northern parts of the species' range. Scientific research and monitoring have reported that northern spotted owls generally rely on older forested habitats because such habitats contain the structures and characteristics required for nesting, roosting, and foraging. Recent landscape-level studies in several southern portions of the northern spotted owl's range suggest a mosaic of forest conditions may result in good northern spotted owl habitat, though other studies have not reported that finding. The most important threat currently facing the northern spotted owl is believed to be competition with the barred owl ( *Strix varia* ). Actions associated with addressing the barred owl threat were given the highest recovery priority, meaning the action “must be taken to prevent extinction or prevent the species from declining irreversibly in the foreseeable future.” Other important threats to the northern spotted owl continue to be loss of habitat quality and quantity as a result of past activities and disturbances, and ongoing and projected loss of habitat as a result of fire, logging and conversion of habitat to other uses. The draft recovery plan provides two options for recovery, and we are seeking public comment on the effectiveness of both options to achieve recovery. Both options are based on the same underlying science, and contain essentially the same recovery goal, objectives, criteria, and actions. The options differ in that option 1 identifies (i.e., maps) the specific conservation area boundaries in which most of the recovery actions and criteria will be targeted. Option 2 does not designate specific conservation area boundaries, rather it provides a “rule set” that will help guide the Federal land management agencies when undertaking conservation actions for the northern spotted owl. Both options rely on Federal lands to provide the primary contribution for northern spotted owl recovery. The intent of providing two options for public comment in a draft recovery plan is to promote open public discussion about how to successfully recover this species. Public Comments Solicited We will conduct four public meetings, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., to receive oral comments about this plan on: • May 22, 2007, Tuesday at the Douglas County Fairgrounds Complex Conference Hall, 2110 SW Frear Street, Roseburg, OR; • May 23, 2007, Wednesday at the Redding Convention Center, 700 Auditorium Drive, Redding, CA; • May 30, 2007, Wednesday at the Oregon Convention Center, Portland Ballroom, 777 Northeast Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Portland, OR; and • May 31, 2007, Thursday at St. Martin's University, Norman Worthington Conference Center, 5300 Pacific Ave. SE., Lacey, WA. Persons with disabilities needing reasonable accommodations to participate in the public meetings are invited to contact Angela Butsch at 1-888-812-5759 (voice) or 503-231-6263 (TTY), or *angela_butsch@fws.gov* . Reasonable accommodation requests should be received at least 3 business days prior to the meeting to help ensure availability; 2 weeks notice is requested for ASL/ESL interpreter needs. We are also soliciting written comments on the draft recovery plan described. All comments received by the date specified above will be considered in the finalization of this plan. Before including your address, phone number, e-mail address, or other personal identifying information in your comment, you should be aware that your entire comment—including your personal identifying information—may be made publicly available at any time. While you can ask us in your comment to withhold your personal identifying information from public review, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so. Comments and materials received will be available for public inspection, by appointment, during normal business hours at the above address. We would specifically appreciate comments on the following topics found in both options: • The methods used to determine desired habitat percentages listed in Recovery Criterion 4. If recommendations are offered, respondents are asked to explain the scientific foundation supporting their comments; • The biological need, design and feasibility of attempting to provide connectivity between the Olympic Peninsula and central Washington northern spotted owl populations; • The biological value in identifying conservation areas in southwest Washington and northwest Oregon; • The practicality of Appendix E, which provides examples of how a salvage logging action (Recovery Action 22) may be implemented; • The identified boundaries of the Managed Owl Conservation Areas (option 1 only) and the Conservation Support Areas; • Methods for managing the threat posed by barred owls; and • Ways to create incentives for private land owners and managers to support recovery of the northern spotted owl. Authority: The authority for this action is section 4(f) of the Endangered Species Act, 16 U.S.C. 1533(f). Dated: April 20, 2007. David J. Wesley, Acting Regional Director, Region 1, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. [FR Doc. E7-8007 Filed 4-25-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4310-55-P DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Fish and Wildlife Service Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; 5-Year Review of 22 Southeastern Species AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: The Fish and Wildlife Service is initiating 5-year reviews of the Southeastern beach mouse ( *Peromyscus polionotus niveiventris* ), rice rat ( *Oryzomys palustris natator* ), Florida salt marsh vole ( *Microtus pennsylvanicus dukecampbelli* ), Key Largo woodrat ( *Neotoma floridana smalli* ), Florida grasshopper sparrow ( *Ammodramus savannarum floridanus* ), Atlantic salt marsh snake ( *Nerodia clarkii taeniata* ), Schaus swallowtail butterfly ( *Heraclides aristodemus ponceanus* ), Squirrel Chimney Cave shrimp ( *Palaemonetes cummingi* ), Florida bonamia ( *Bonamia grandiflora* ), pigeon wings ( *Clitoria fragrans* ), short-leaved rosemary ( *Conradina brevifolia* ), Rugel's pawpaw ( *Deeringothamnus rugelii* ), longspurred mint ( *Dicerandra cornutissima* ), Lakela's mint ( *Dicerandra immaculata* ), scrub buckwheat ( *Eriogonum longifolium* var. *gnaphalifolium* ), Telephus spurge ( *Euphorbia telephioides* ), Highlands scrub hypericum ( *Hypericum cumulicola* ), scrub lupine ( *Lupinus aridorum* ), papery whitlow-wort ( *Paronychia chartacea* ), Miccosukee gooseberry ( *Ribes echinellum* ), Cooley's meadowrue ( *Thalictrum cooleyi* ), and Carter's mustard ( *Warea carteri* ), under section 4(c)(2) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1531 *et seq.* ), as amended (Act). The purpose of reviews conducted under this section of the Act is to ensure that the classification of species as threatened or endangered on the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants (50 CFR 17.11 and 17.12) is accurate. A 5-year review is an assessment of the best scientific and commercial data available at the time of the review. DATES: To allow us adequate time to conduct this review, information submitted for our consideration must be received on or before June 25, 2007. However, we will continue to accept new information about any listed species at any time. ADDRESSES: Information submitted on the Southeastern beach mouse, Florida salt marsh vole, Atlantic salt marsh snake, Squirrel Chimney Cave shrimp, longspurred mint, scrub lupine, Florida bonamia, scrub buckwheat, and Rugel's pawpaw should be sent to Sandy MacPherson, Jacksonville Field Office, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 6620 Southpoint Drive South, Suite 310, Jacksonville, Florida 32216, fax 904-232-2404. Information on the Key Largo woodrat, rice rat, Florida grasshopper sparrow, Schaus swallowtail butterfly, pigeon wings, Lakela's mint, Carter's mustard, Highlands scrub hypericum, short-leaved rosemary, and papery whitlow-wort should be sent to Cindy Schulz, South Florida Ecological Services Office, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 1339 20th Street, Vero Beach, Florida 32960, fax 772-562-4288. Information on the Telephus spurge and Miccosukee gooseberry should be sent to Janet Mizzi, Panama City Field Office, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 1601 Balboa Avenue, Panama City, Florida 32405, fax 850-763-2177. Information on Cooley's meadowrue should be sent to Pete Benjamin, Raleigh Field Office, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 551-F Pylon Drive, Raleigh, North Carolina 27636, fax 919-856-4520. Information received in response to this notice of review will be available for public inspection by appointment, during normal business hours, at the same addresses. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sandy MacPherson at the Jacksonville, Florida, address above (telephone, 904/232-2580, ext. 110, e-mail *sandy_macpherson@fws.gov* ); Cindy Schulz at the Vero Beach, Florida, address above (telephone, 772/562-3909, ext. 305, e-mail *cindy_schulz@fws.gov* ); Janet Mizzi at the Panama City, Florida, address above (telephone, 850/769-0552, ext. 247, e-mail *janet_mizzi@fws.gov* ); and Dale Suiter at the Raleigh, North Carolina, address above (telephone, 919/856-4520, ext. 18, e-mail *dale_suiter@fws.gov* ). SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Under the Act, the Service maintains a list of endangered and threatened wildlife and plant species at 50 CFR 17.11 (for wildlife) and 17.12 (for plants) (collectively referred to as the List). Section 4(c)(2)(A) of the Act requires that we conduct a review of listed species at least once every 5 years. Then, on the basis of such reviews, under section 4(c)(2)(B), we determine whether or not any species should be removed from the List (delisted), or reclassified from endangered to threatened or from threatened to endangered. Delisting a species must be supported by the best scientific and commercial data available and only considered if such data substantiate that the species is neither endangered nor threatened for one or more of the following reasons:
(1)The species is considered extinct;
(2)the species is considered to be recovered; and/or
(3)the original data available when the species was listed, or the interpretation of such data, were in error. Any change in Federal classification would require a separate rulemaking process. Amendments to the List through final rules are published in the **Federal Register** . The regulations at 50 CFR 424.21 require that we publish a notice in the **Federal Register** announcing those species currently under active review. This notice announces our active review of the following species that are currently listed as endangered: rice rat, Florida salt marsh vole, Key Largo woodrat, Florida grasshopper sparrow, Schaus swallowtail butterfly, short-leaved rosemary, Rugel's pawpaw, longspurred mint, Lakela's mint, Telephus spurge, Highlands scrub hypericum, scrub lupine, Cooley's meadowrue, and Carter's mustard. This notice also announces our active review of the following species that are currently listed as threatened: Southeastern beach mouse, Atlantic salt marsh snake, Squirrel Chimney Cave shrimp, Florida bonamia, pigeon wings, scrub buckwheat, papery whitlow-wort, and Miccosukee gooseberry. The List is also available on our internet site at *http://endangered.fws.gov/wildlife.html#Species* . What information is considered in the review? A 5-year review will consider the best scientific and commercial data that have become available since the current listing determination or most recent status review of each species, such as: A. Species biology, including but not limited to population trends, distribution, abundance, demographics, and genetics; B. Habitat conditions, including but not limited to amount, distribution, and suitability; C. Conservation measures that have been implemented to benefit the species; D. Threat status and trends (see five factors under heading “How do we determine whether a species is endangered or threatened?”); and E. Other new information, data, or corrections, including but not limited to taxonomic or nomenclatural changes, identification of erroneous information contained in the List, and improved analytical methods. Definitions Related to This Notice The following definitions are provided to assist those persons who contemplate submitting information regarding the species being reviewed: A. *Species* includes any species or subspecies of fish, wildlife, or plant, and any distinct population segment of any species of vertebrate which interbreeds when mature. B. *Endangered* means any species that is in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range. C. *Threatened* means any species that is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range. How do we determine whether a species is endangered or threatened? Section 4(a)(1) of the Act establishes that we determine whether a species is endangered or threatened based on one or more of the following five factors: A. The present or threatened destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range; B. Overutilization for commercial, recreational, scientific, or educational purposes; C. Disease or predation; D. The inadequacy of existing regulatory mechanisms; or E. Other natural or manmade factors affecting its continued existence. What could happen as a result of this review? If we find that there is new information concerning any of these 22 species indicating that a change in classification may be warranted, we may propose a new rule that could do one of the following:
(a)Reclassify the species from endangered to threatened;
(b)reclassify the species from threatened to endangered; or
(c)delist the species. If we determine that a change in classification is not warranted, then the species will remain on the List under its current status. Public Solicitation of New Information We request any new information concerning the status of any of these 22 species. See “What information is considered in the review?” heading for specific criteria. Information submitted should be supported by documentation such as maps, bibliographic references, methods used to gather and analyze the data, and/or copies of any pertinent publications, reports, or letters by knowledgeable sources. Our practice is to make comments, including names and home addresses of respondents, available for public review during regular business hours. Individual respondents may request that we withhold their names and home addresses, etc., but if you wish us to consider withholding this information, you must state this prominently at the beginning of your comments. In addition, you must present rationale for withholding this information. This rationale must demonstrate that disclosure would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of privacy. Unsupported assertions will not meet this burden. In the absence of exceptional, documentable circumstances, this information will be released. We will always make submissions from organizations or businesses, and from individuals identifying themselves as representatives or officials of organizations or businesses, available for public inspection in their entirety. Authority: This document is published under the authority of the Endangered Species Act (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.). Dated: March 29, 2007. Cynthia K. Dohner, Acting Regional Director, Southeast Region. [FR Doc. E7-8006 Filed 4-25-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4310-55-P DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Bureau of Land Management [ID 100 1220MA 214A: DBG071007] Notice of Public Meeting: Resource Advisory Council to the Boise District, Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Department of the Interior AGENCY: Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Department of the Interior. ACTION: Notice of public meeting. SUMMARY: In accordance with the Federal Land Policy and Management Act (FLPMA) and the Federal Advisory Committee Act of 1972 (FACA), the U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management
(BLM)Boise District Resource Advisory Council (RAC), will hold a meeting as indicated below. DATES: The meeting will be held May 22, 2007, beginning at 9 a.m. and adjourning at 1 p.m. The meeting will be held at the Boise District Office located at 3948 Development Avenue, Boise, Idaho. Public comment periods will be held at intervals throughout the meeting. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: MJ Byrne, Public Affairs Officer and RAC Coordinator, BLM Boise District, 3948 Development Ave., Boise, ID 83705, Telephone
(208)384-3393. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The 15-member Council advises the Secretary of the Interior, through the BLM, on a variety of planning and management issues associated with public land management in southwestern Idaho. The Board will formally approve the members of the new RAC Recreation Subcommittee, including one non-RAC member. Elections of officers for the 2007 fiscal year will be held. The RAC will be given a brief status report on both the Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Resource Management Plan (RMP), and the Bruneau RMP. Hot Topics will be discussed by the District Manager and Field Office managers will provide highlights on activities in their offices. Agenda items and location may change due to changing circumstances, including wildlife emergencies. All meetings are open to the public. The public may present written comments to the Council. Each formal Council meeting will also have time allocated for hearing public comments. Depending on the number of persons wishing to comment and time available, the time for individual oral comments may be limited. Individuals who plan to attend and need special assistance, such as sign language interpretation, tour transportation or other reasonable accommodations, should contact the BLM Coordinator as provided above. Expedited publication is requested to give the public adequate notice. Dated: April 20, 2007. David Wolf, Acting, District Manager. [FR Doc. 07-2061 Filed 4-25-07; 8:45 am]
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  • 50 CFR 17.11
  • 50 CFR 424.21
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Notices
Notice
U.S.C.§ 207
C.F.R.§ 404.7
U.S.C.§ 552a
U.S.C.§ 1531
U.S.C.§ 1533
Cite50 CFR 17.11
Cite50 CFR 424.21
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