Motor unit activation patterns during concentric wrist flexion in humans with different muscle fibre composition.

PubMed

Søgaard, K; Christensen, H; Fallentin, N; Mizuno, M; Quistorff, B; Sjøgaard, G

1998-10-01

Muscle activity was recorded from the flexor carpi radialis muscle during static and dynamic-concentric wrist flexion in six subjects, who had exhibited large differences in histochemically identified muscle fibre composition. Motor unit recruitment patterns were identified by sampling 310 motor units and counting firing rates in pulses per second (pps). During concentric wrist flexion at 30% of maximal exercise intensity the mean firing rate was 27 (SD 13) pps. This was around twice the value of 12 (SD 5) pps recorded during sustained static contraction at 30% of maximal voluntary contraction, despite a larger absolute force level during the static contraction. A similar pattern of higher firing rates during dynamic exercise was seen when concentric wrist flexion at 60% of maximal exercise intensity [30 (SD 14) pps] was compared with sustained static contraction at 60% of maximal voluntary contraction [19 (SD 8) pps]. The increase in dynamic exercise intensity was accomplished by recruitment of additional motor units rather than by increasing the firing rate as during static contractions. No difference in mean firing rates was found among subjects with different muscle fibre composition, who had previously exhibited marked differences in metabolic response during corresponding dynamic contractions. It was concluded that during submaximal dynamic contractions motor unit firing rate cannot be deduced from observations during static contractions and that muscle fibre composition may play a minor role.

48 CFR 1542.705 - Final indirect cost rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

.... 1542.705 Section 1542.705 Federal Acquisition Regulations System ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION Indirect Cost Rates 1542.705 Final indirect cost rates. (a) The... contracts when the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the cognizant federal agency and a FACO will be...

77 FR 19522 - Federal Employees Health Benefits Program: New Premium Rating Method for Most Community Rated Plans

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-02

... OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT 5 CFR Part 890 48 CFR Parts 1602, 1615, 1632, and 1652 RIN 3206-AM39 Federal Employees Health Benefits Program: New Premium Rating Method for Most Community Rated... instructions to carriers. Subchapter C--Contracting Methods and Contract Types PART 1615--CONTRACTING BY...

48 CFR 15.407-3 - Forward pricing rate agreements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... CONTRACTING METHODS AND CONTRACT TYPES CONTRACTING BY NEGOTIATION Contract Pricing 15.407-3 Forward pricing rate agreements. (a) When certified cost or pricing data are required, offerors are required to... apply and to identify the latest cost or pricing data already submitted in accordance with the FPRA. All...

48 CFR 15.407-3 - Forward pricing rate agreements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... CONTRACTING METHODS AND CONTRACT TYPES CONTRACTING BY NEGOTIATION Contract Pricing 15.407-3 Forward pricing rate agreements. (a) When certified cost or pricing data are required, offerors are required to... apply and to identify the latest cost or pricing data already submitted in accordance with the FPRA. All...

Contraction frequency after administration of misoprostol in obese versus nonobese women.

PubMed

Stefely, Erin; Warshak, Carri R

2018-04-30

To examine impact of obesity on contraction frequency following misoprostol. Our hypothesis is that an increased volume of distribution reduces the bioavailability of misoprostol and may be an explanation for reduced efficacy. We examined the contraction frequency as a surrogate marker for bioavailability of misoprostol. We compared the rate of contractions at five time intervals in 313 subjects: prior to administration, and at four intervals post administration. We compared number of contractions in obese versus nonobese. As a planned secondary analysis, we then compared the rate of change in contractions per hour at four time intervals: a repeated measures analysis to compare the rate of change in contractions per hour over the 5-hour window controlling for race (White versus non-White) and parity (primiparous versus multiparous). General linear model and repeated measures analysis were conducted to report the parameter estimates, least square means, difference of least square means, and p values. Nonobese women presented with more contractions at baseline, 7 ± 5 versus 4 ± 5 c/h, p < .001. At all four time intervals after misoprostol administration obese women had fewer contractions per hour. The rate of change in contraction frequency after administration found obese women had a lower rate of increase in contraction frequency over the course of all four hours. We found a least squares means estimate (c/h): first hour (-0.87), p = .08, second hour (-2.43), p = .01, third hour (-1.80), p = .96, and fourth hour (-2.98), p = .007. Obese women have a lower rate of contractions per hour at baseline and at four intervals after misoprostol administration. In addition, the rate of change in the increase in contractions/hour also was reduced in obese women versus nonobese women. This suggests a lower bioavailability of misoprostol in women with a larger volume of distribution which would likely impact the efficacy of misoprostol in obese women when given the same dose of misoprostol. It is unknown if higher misoprostol dosing would increase efficacy of misoprostol in obese women.

Contract Specialist Turnover Rate and Contract Management Maturity in the National Capital Region Contracting Center: An Analysis

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-12-01

interviews with separating employees to obtain this information (Mathis & Jackson, 2003, pp. 90-91). Management should also measure the ‘internal churn rate...Sullivan, 2009). This is a measure of internal transfers from one department to others. High internal churn rates in particular areas may...contracting support and service throughout the National Capital Region” (CCE, 2009). Among other things, CCE provides telecommunication equipment and

Fetal heart and uterine contraction monitor (image)

MedlinePlus

The fetal heart monitor and uterine contraction monitor provide a continuous record of the baby's heart rate and the mother's contraction rate as labor progresses. This device can provide early warning of fetal distress.

Preceding muscle activity influences motor unit discharge and rate of torque development during ballistic contractions in humans

PubMed Central

Van Cutsem, Michaël; Duchateau, Jacques

2005-01-01

To investigate the effect of initial conditions on the modulation of motor unit discharge during fast voluntary contractions, we compared ballistic isometric contractions of the ankle dorsiflexor muscles that were produced from either a resting state or superimposed on a sustained contraction. The torque of the dorsiflexors and the surface and intramuscular EMGs from the tibialis anterior were recorded. The results showed that the performance of a ballistic contraction from a sustained contraction (∼25% maximal voluntary contraction (MVC)) had a negative effect on the maximal rate of torque development. Although the electromechanical delay was shortened, the EMG activity during the ballistic contraction was less synchronized. These observations were associated with a significant decline in the average discharge rate of single motor units (89.8 ± 3.8 versus 115 ± 5.8 Hz) and in the percentage of units (6.2 versus 15.5% of the whole sample) that exhibited double discharges at brief intervals (= 5 ms). High-threshold units that were not recruited during the sustained contraction displayed the same activation pattern, which indicates that the mechanisms responsible for the decline in discharge rate were not restricted to previously activated units, but appear to influence the entire motor unit pool. When a premotor silent period (SP) was observed at the transition from the sustained muscular activity to the ballistic contraction (19% of the trials), these adjustments in motor unit activity were not present, and the ballistic contractions were similar to those performed from a resting state. Together, these results indicate that initial conditions can influence the capacity for motor unit discharge rate and hence the performance of a fast voluntary contraction. PMID:15539402

Effect of muscle mass and intensity of isometric contraction on heart rate.

PubMed

Gálvez, J M; Alonso, J P; Sangrador, L A; Navarro, G

2000-02-01

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of muscle mass and the level of force on the contraction-induced rise in heart rate. We conducted an experimental study in a sample of 28 healthy men between 20 and 30 yr of age (power: 95%, alpha: 5%). Smokers, obese subjects, and those who performed regular physical activity over a certain amount of energetic expenditure were excluded from the study. The participants exerted two types of isometric contractions: handgrip and turning a 40-cm-diameter wheel. Both were sustained to exhaustion at 20 and 50% of maximal force. Twenty-five subjects finished the experiment. Heart rate increased a mean of 15.1 beats/min [95% confidence interval (CI): 5.5-24.6] from 20 to 50% handgrip contractions, and 20.7 beats/min (95% CI: 11.9-29.5) from 20 to 50% wheel-turn contractions. Heart rate also increased a mean of 13.3 beats/min (95% CI: 10.4-16.1) from handgrip to wheel-turn contractions at 20% maximal force, and 18.9 beats/min (95% CI: 9. 8-28.0) from handgrip to wheel-turn contractions at 50% maximal force. We conclude that the magnitude of the heart rate increase during isometric exercise is related to the intensity of the contraction and the mass of the contracted muscle.

41 CFR 102-117.65 - What terms and conditions must all rate tenders or contracts include?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... statutes (49 U.S.C. 10721 or 13712), property must be shipped by or for the Government and the rate tender... provider by the consignor or consignee are for the benefit of the Government. (e) When using a rate tender... conditions must all rate tenders or contracts include? 102-117.65 Section 102-117.65 Public Contracts and...

48 CFR 1615.407-1 - Rate reduction for defective pricing or defective cost or pricing data.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... defective pricing or defective cost or pricing data. 1615.407-1 Section 1615.407-1 Federal Acquisition... CONTRACTING METHODS AND CONTRACT TYPES CONTRACTING BY NEGOTIATION Contract Pricing 1615.407-1 Rate reduction for defective pricing or defective cost or pricing data. The clause set forth in section 1652.215-70...

48 CFR 1615.407-1 - Rate reduction for defective pricing or defective cost or pricing data.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... defective pricing or defective cost or pricing data. 1615.407-1 Section 1615.407-1 Federal Acquisition... CONTRACTING METHODS AND CONTRACT TYPES CONTRACTING BY NEGOTIATION Contract Pricing 1615.407-1 Rate reduction for defective pricing or defective cost or pricing data. The clause set forth in section 1652.215-70...

48 CFR 1615.407-1 - Rate reduction for defective pricing or defective cost or pricing data.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... defective pricing or defective cost or pricing data. 1615.407-1 Section 1615.407-1 Federal Acquisition... CONTRACTING METHODS AND CONTRACT TYPES CONTRACTING BY NEGOTIATION Contract Pricing 1615.407-1 Rate reduction for defective pricing or defective cost or pricing data. The clause set forth in section 1652.215-70...

48 CFR 1615.407-1 - Rate reduction for defective pricing or defective cost or pricing data.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... defective pricing or defective cost or pricing data. 1615.407-1 Section 1615.407-1 Federal Acquisition... CONTRACTING METHODS AND CONTRACT TYPES CONTRACTING BY NEGOTIATION Contract Pricing 1615.407-1 Rate reduction for defective pricing or defective cost or pricing data. The clause set forth in section 1652.215-70...

Defense Department Profit and Contract Finance Policies and Their Effects on Contract and Contractor Performance

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-02-01

liabilities (e.g., accounts payable). This ratio can be compared to the firm’s weighted average cost of capital ( WACC ). WACC is the cost of debt plus the cost...RatioCost of Debt Marginal Tax Rate Risk-Free Rate Cost of Equity Risk Premium Industry Beta WACC Technical Risk CPFF/CPAF …. FFP/ MYP - Contract Choice...estimates the levered WACC as the discount rate, and finally calculates the NPV of the contract. Specific model input includes profit policy levers

Factors associated with independent pharmacy owners' satisfaction with Medicare Part D contracts.

PubMed

Zhang, Su; Doucette, William R; Urmie, Julie M; Xie, Yang; Brooks, John M

2010-06-01

As Medicare Part D contracts apply pressure on the profitability of independent pharmacies, there is concern about their owners' willingness to sign such contracts. Identifying factors affecting independent pharmacy owners' satisfaction with Medicare Part D contracts could inform policy makers in managing Medicare Part D. (1) To identify influences on independent pharmacy owners' satisfaction with Medicare Part D contracts and (2) to characterize comments made by independent pharmacy owners about Medicare Part D. This cross-sectional study used a mail survey of independent pharmacy owners in 15 states comprising 6 Medicare regions to collect information on their most- and least-favorable Medicare Part D contracts, including satisfaction, contract management activities, market position, pharmacy operation, and specific payment levels on brand and generic drugs. Of the 1649 surveys mailed, 296 surveys were analyzed. The regression models for satisfaction with both the least and the most-favorable Part D contracts were significant (P<0.05). A different set of significant influences on satisfaction was identified for each regression model. For the most-favorable contract, influences were contending and equity. For the least-favorable contract, influences were negotiation, equity, generic rate bonus, and medication therapy management (MTM) payment. About one-third of the survey respondents made at least 1 comment. The most frequent themes in the comments were that Medicare Part D reimbursement rate is too low (28%) and that contracts are offered without negotiation in a "take it or leave it" manner (20%). Equity, contending, negotiation, generic rate bonus, and MTM payments were identified as the influences of independent pharmacy owners' satisfaction toward Medicare Part D contracts. Generic rate bonus and MTM payment provide additional financial incentives to less financially favorable contracts and, in turn, contribute to independent pharmacy owner's satisfaction toward these contracts. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

78 FR 30948 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; Fixed Income Clearing Corporation; Notice of Filing of Advance...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-05-23

... Options on Interest Rate Futures Contracts With Maturities Not Longer Than Two Years in the One- Pot Cross... allow FICC to include options on interest rate futures contracts with maturities not longer than two...) The purpose of the advance notice is to include options on interest rate futures contracts with...

48 CFR 31.105 - Construction and architect-engineer contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

..., include unallowable interest costs, or use improper cost of money rates or computations. Contracting... contracts, including cost-reimbursement subcontracts thereunder; (2) Negotiating indirect cost rates; (3... appropriate they serve to express the parties' understanding and avoid possible subsequent disputes or...

48 CFR 42.704 - Billing rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Billing rates. 42.704... CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 42.704 Billing rates. (a) The contracting... final indirect cost rates also shall be responsible for determining the billing rates. (b) The...

48 CFR 42.704 - Billing rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Billing rates. 42.704... CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 42.704 Billing rates. (a) The contracting... final indirect cost rates also shall be responsible for determining the billing rates. (b) The...

48 CFR 42.704 - Billing rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Billing rates. 42.704... CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 42.704 Billing rates. (a) The contracting... final indirect cost rates also shall be responsible for determining the billing rates. (b) The...

48 CFR 42.704 - Billing rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Billing rates. 42.704... CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 42.704 Billing rates. (a) The contracting... final indirect cost rates also shall be responsible for determining the billing rates. (b) The...

48 CFR 731.370 - Predetermined fixed rates for indirect costs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT GENERAL CONTRACTING REQUIREMENTS CONTRACT COST PRINCIPLES AND PROCEDURES Contracts... determining the indirect costs applicable under contracts with educational institutions. ...

48 CFR 731.370 - Predetermined fixed rates for indirect costs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT GENERAL CONTRACTING REQUIREMENTS CONTRACT COST PRINCIPLES AND PROCEDURES Contracts... determining the indirect costs applicable under contracts with educational institutions. ...

Effect of Contract Compliance Rate to a Fourth-Generation Telehealth Program on the Risk of Hospitalization in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease: Retrospective Cohort Study.

PubMed

Hung, Chi-Sheng; Lee, Jenkuang; Chen, Ying-Hsien; Huang, Ching-Chang; Wu, Vin-Cent; Wu, Hui-Wen; Chuang, Pao-Yu; Ho, Yi-Lwun

2018-01-24

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is prevalent in Taiwan and it is associated with high all-cause mortality. We have shown in a previous paper that a fourth-generation telehealth program is associated with lower all-cause mortality compared to usual care with a hazard ratio of 0.866 (95% CI 0.837-0.896). This study aimed to evaluate the effect of renal function status on hospitalization among patients receiving this program and to evaluate the relationship between contract compliance rate to the program and risk of hospitalization in patients with CKD. We retrospectively analyzed 715 patients receiving the telehealth care program. Contract compliance rate was defined as the percentage of days covered by the telehealth service before hospitalization. Patients were stratified into three groups according to renal function status: (1) normal renal function, (2) CKD, or (3) end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and on maintenance dialysis. The outcome measurements were first cardiovascular and all-cause hospitalizations. The association between contract compliance rate, renal function status, and hospitalization risk was analyzed with a Cox proportional hazards model with time-dependent covariates. The median follow-up duration was 694 days (IQR 338-1163). Contract compliance rate had a triphasic relationship with cardiovascular and all-cause hospitalizations. Patients with low or very high contract compliance rates were associated with a higher risk of hospitalization. Patients with CKD or ESRD were also associated with a higher risk of hospitalization. Moreover, we observed a significant interaction between the effects of renal function status and contract compliance rate on the risk of hospitalization: patients with ESRD, who were on dialysis, had an increased risk of hospitalization at a lower contract compliance rate, compared with patients with normal renal function or CKD. Our study showed that there was a triphasic relationship between contract compliance rate to the telehealth program and risk of hospitalization. Renal function status was associated with risk of hospitalization among these patients, and there was a significant interaction with contract compliance rate. ©Chi-Sheng Hung, Jenkuang Lee, Ying-Hsien Chen, Ching-Chang Huang, Vin-Cent Wu, Hui-Wen Wu, Pao-Yu Chuang, Yi-Lwun Ho. Originally published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research (http://www.jmir.org), 24.01.2018.

48 CFR 1652.232-71 - Payments-experience-rated contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 6 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Payments-experience-rated contracts. 1652.232-71 Section 1652.232-71 Federal Acquisition Regulations System OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT FEDERAL EMPLOYEES HEALTH BENEFITS ACQUISITION REGULATION CLAUSES AND FORMS CONTRACT CLAUSES Texts...

48 CFR 1652.232-70 - Payments-community-rated contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 6 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Payments-community-rated contracts. 1652.232-70 Section 1652.232-70 Federal Acquisition Regulations System OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT FEDERAL EMPLOYEES HEALTH BENEFITS ACQUISITION REGULATION CLAUSES AND FORMS CONTRACT CLAUSES Texts...

48 CFR 3416.702 - Basic agreements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 7 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Basic agreements. 3416.702... CONTRACTING METHODS AND CONTRACT TYPES TYPES OF CONTRACTS Agreements 3416.702 Basic agreements. (a)-(d) [Reserved] (e) Negotiated overhead rates. Basic agreements may include negotiated overhead rates for cost...

Time-related changes in firing rates are influenced by recruitment threshold and twitch force potentiation in the first dorsal interosseous.

PubMed

Miller, Jonathan D; Herda, Trent J; Trevino, Michael A; Sterczala, Adam J; Ciccone, Anthony B

2017-08-01

What is the central question of this study? The influences of motor unit recruitment threshold and twitch force potentiation on the changes in firing rates during steady-force muscular contractions are not well understood. What is the main finding and its importance? The behaviour of motor units during steady force was influenced by recruitment threshold, such that firing rates decreased for lower-threshold motor units but increased for higher-threshold motor units. In addition, individuals with greater changes in firing rates possessed greater twitch force potentiation. There are contradictory reports regarding changes in motor unit firing rates during steady-force contractions. Inconsistencies are likely to be the result of previous studies disregarding motor unit recruitment thresholds and not examining firing rates on a subject-by-subject basis. It is hypothesized that firing rates are manipulated by twitch force potentiation during contractions. Therefore, in this study we examined time-related changes in firing rates at steady force in relationship to motor unit recruitment threshold in the first dorsal interosseous and the influence of twitch force potentiation on such changes in young versus aged individuals. Subjects performed a 12 s steady-force contraction at 50% maximal voluntary contraction, with evoked twitches before and after the contraction to quantify potentiation. Firing rates, in relationship to recruitment thresholds, were determined at the beginning, middle and end of the steady force. There were no firing rate changes for aged individuals. For the young, firing rates decreased slightly for lower-threshold motor units but increased for higher-threshold motor units. Twitch force potentiation was greater for young than aged subjects, and changes in firing rates were correlated with twitch force potentiation. Thus, individuals with greater increases in firing rates of higher-threshold motor units and decreases in lower-threshold motor units possessed greater twitch force potentiation. Overall, changes in firing rates during brief steady-force contractions are dependent on recruitment threshold and explained in part by twitch force potentiation. Given that firing rate changes were measured in relationship to recruitment threshold, this study illustrates a more complete view of firing rate changes during steady-force contractions. © 2017 The Authors. Experimental Physiology © 2017 The Physiological Society.

Risk factors for injury among construction workers at Denver International Airport.

PubMed

Lowery, J T; Borgerding, J A; Zhen, B; Glazner, J E; Bondy, J; Kreiss, K

1998-08-01

The Denver International Airport construction project provided a rare opportunity to identify risk factors for injury on a large construction project for which 769 contractors were hired to complete 2,843 construction contracts. Workers' compensation claims and payroll data for individual contracts were recorded in an administrative database developed by the project's Owner-Controlled Insurance Program. From claims andy payroll data linked with employee demographic information, we calculated injury rates per 200,000 person-hours by contract and over contract characteristics of interest. We used Poisson regression models to examine contract-specific risk factors in relation to total injuries, lost-work-time (LWT), and non-LWT injuries. We included contract-specific expected loss rates (ELRs) in the model to control for prevailing risk of work and used logistic regression methods to determine the association between LWT and non-LWT injuries on contracts. Injury rates were highest during the first year of construction, at the beginning of contracts, and among older workers. Risk for total and non-LWT injuries was elevated for building construction contracts, contract for special trades companies (SIC 17), contracts with payrolls over $1 million, and those with overtime payrolls greater than 20%. Risk for LWT injuries only was increased for site development contracts and contract starting in the first year of construction. Contracts experiencing one or more minor injuries were four times as likely to have at least one major injury (OR = 4.0, 95% CI (2.9, 5.5)). Enhancement of DIA's safety infrastructure during the second year of construction appears to have been effective in reducing serious (LWT) injures. The absence of correlation between injury rates among contracts belonging to the same company suggest that targeting of safety resources at the level of the contract may be an effective approach to injury prevention. Interventions focused on high-risk contracts, including those with considerable overtime work, contracts held by special trades contractors (SIC 17), and contracts belonging to small and mid-sized companies, and on high-risk workers, such as those new to a construction site or new to a contract may reduce injury burden on large construction sites. The join occurrence of minor and major injuries on a contract level suggests that surveillance of minor injuries may be useful in identifying opportunities for prevention of major injures.

Skeletal muscle contractions uncoupled from gravitational loading directly increase cortical bone blood flow rates in vivo.

PubMed

Caulkins, Carrie; Ebramzadeh, Edward; Winet, Howard

2009-05-01

The direct and indirect effects of muscle contraction on bone microcirculation and fluid flow are neither well documented nor explained. However, skeletal muscle contractions may affect the acquisition and maintenance of bone via stimulation of bone circulatory and interstitial fluid flow parameters. The purposes of this study were to assess the effects of transcutaneous electrical neuromuscular stimulation (TENS)-induced muscle contractions on cortical bone blood flow and bone mineral content, and to demonstrate that alterations in blood flow could occur independently of mechanical loading and systemic circulatory mechanisms. Bone chamber implants were used in a rabbit model to observe real-time blood flow rates and TENS-induced muscle contractions. Video recording of fluorescent microspheres injected into the blood circulation was used to calculate changes in cortical blood flow rates. TENS-induced repetitive muscle contractions uncoupled from mechanical loading instantaneously increased cortical microcirculatory flow, directly increased bone blood flow rates by 130%, and significantly increased bone mineral content over 7 weeks. Heart rates and blood pressure did not significantly increase due to TENS treatment. Our findings suggest that muscle contraction therapies have potential clinical applications for improving blood flow to cortical bone in the appendicular skeleton. Copyright 2008 Orthopaedic Research Society

Inhibition linearizes firing rate responses in human motor units: implications for the role of persistent inward currents.

PubMed

Revill, Ann L; Fuglevand, Andrew J

2017-01-01

Motor neurons are the output neurons of the central nervous system and are responsible for controlling muscle contraction. When initially activated during voluntary contraction, firing rates of motor neurons increase steeply but then level out at modest rates. Activation of an intrinsic source of excitatory current at recruitment onset may underlie the initial steep increase in firing rate in motor neurons. We attempted to disable this intrinsic excitatory current by artificially activating an inhibitory reflex. When motor neuron activity was recorded while the inhibitory reflex was engaged, firing rates no longer increased steeply, suggesting that the intrinsic excitatory current was probably responsible for the initial sharp rise in motor neuron firing rate. During graded isometric contractions, motor unit (MU) firing rates increase steeply upon recruitment but then level off at modest rates even though muscle force continues to increase. The mechanisms underlying such firing behaviour are not known although activation of persistent inward currents (PICs) might be involved. PICs are intrinsic, voltage-dependent currents that activate strongly when motor neurons (MNs) are first recruited. Such activation might cause a sharp escalation in depolarizing current and underlie the steep initial rise in MU firing rate. Because PICs can be disabled with synaptic inhibition, we hypothesized that artificial activation of an inhibitory pathway might curb this initial steep rise in firing rate. To test this, human subjects performed slow triangular ramp contractions of the ankle dorsiflexors in the absence and presence of tonic synaptic inhibition delivered to tibialis anterior (TA) MNs by sural nerve stimulation. Firing rate profiles (expressed as a function of contraction force) of TA MUs recorded during these tasks were compared for control and stimulation conditions. Under control conditions, during the ascending phase of the triangular contractions, 93% of the firing rate profiles were best fitted by rising exponential functions. With stimulation, however, firing rate profiles were best fitted with linear functions or with less steeply rising exponentials. Firing rate profiles for the descending phases of the contractions were best fitted with linear functions for both control and stimulation conditions. These results seem consistent with the idea that PICs contribute to non-linear firing rate profiles during ascending but not descending phases of contractions. © 2016 The Authors. The Journal of Physiology © 2016 The Physiological Society.

36 CFR 223.61 - Establishing minimum stumpage rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... AGRICULTURE SALE AND DISPOSAL OF NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM TIMBER Timber Sale Contracts Appraisal and Pricing.... No timber may be sold or cut under timber sale contracts for less than minimum stumpage rates except... amounts of material not meeting utilization standards of the timber sale contract. For any timber sale...

48 CFR 32.503-9 - Liquidation rates-alternate method.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... with the successive changes to the contract price or target profit when— (i) The target profit is changed under a fixed-price incentive contract with successive targets; or (ii) A redetermined price... modification to specify the new rate in the Progress Payments clause. Adequate consideration for these contract...

Uterine Contraction Modeling and Simulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Liu, Miao; Belfore, Lee A.; Shen, Yuzhong; Scerbo, Mark W.

2010-01-01

Building a training system for medical personnel to properly interpret fetal heart rate tracing requires developing accurate models that can relate various signal patterns to certain pathologies. In addition to modeling the fetal heart rate signal itself, the change of uterine pressure that bears strong relation to fetal heart rate and provides indications of maternal and fetal status should also be considered. In this work, we have developed a group of parametric models to simulate uterine contractions during labor and delivery. Through analysis of real patient records, we propose to model uterine contraction signals by three major components: regular contractions, impulsive noise caused by fetal movements, and low amplitude noise invoked by maternal breathing and measuring apparatus. The regular contractions are modeled by an asymmetric generalized Gaussian function and least squares estimation is used to compute the parameter values of the asymmetric generalized Gaussian function based on uterine contractions of real patients. Regular contractions are detected based on thresholding and derivative analysis of uterine contractions. Impulsive noise caused by fetal movements and low amplitude noise by maternal breathing and measuring apparatus are modeled by rational polynomial functions and Perlin noise, respectively. Experiment results show the synthesized uterine contractions can mimic the real uterine contractions realistically, demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.

Muscle vibration sustains motor unit firing rate during submaximal isometric fatigue in humans

PubMed Central

Griffin, L; Garland, S J; Ivanova, T; Gossen, E R

2001-01-01

In keeping with the ‘muscular wisdom hypothesis’, many studies have documented that the firing rate of the majority of motor units decreased during fatiguing isometric contractions. The present study investigated whether the application of periodic muscle vibration, which strongly activates muscle spindles, would alter the modulation of motor unit firing rate during submaximal fatiguing isometric contractions. Thirty-three motor units from the lateral head of the triceps brachii muscle were recorded from 10 subjects during a sustained isometric 20 % maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) of the elbow extensors. Vibration was interposed on the contraction for 2 s every 10 s. Twenty-two motor units were recorded from the beginning of the fatigue task. The discharge rate of the majority of motor units remained constant (12/22) or increased (4/22) with fatigue. Six motor units demonstrated a reduction in discharge rate that later returned toward initial values; these motor units had higher initial discharge rates than the other 16 motor units. In a second series of experiments, four subjects held a sustained isometric 20 % MVC for 2 min and then vibration was applied as above for the remainder of the contraction. In this case, motor units initially demonstrated a decrease in firing rate that increased after the vibration was applied. Thus muscle spindle disfacilitation of the motoneurone pool may be associated with the decline of motor unit discharge rate observed during the first 2 min of the contraction. In a third set of experiments, seven subjects performed the main experiment on one occasion and repeated the fatigue task without vibration on a second occasion. Neither the endurance time of the fatiguing contraction nor the MVC torque following fatigue was affected by the application of vibration. This finding calls into question the applicability of the muscular wisdom hypothesis to submaximal contractions. PMID:11559785

Muscle vibration sustains motor unit firing rate during submaximal isometric fatigue in humans.

PubMed

Griffin, L; Garland, S J; Ivanova, T; Gossen, E R

2001-09-15

1. In keeping with the 'muscular wisdom hypothesis', many studies have documented that the firing rate of the majority of motor units decreased during fatiguing isometric contractions. The present study investigated whether the application of periodic muscle vibration, which strongly activates muscle spindles, would alter the modulation of motor unit firing rate during submaximal fatiguing isometric contractions. 2. Thirty-three motor units from the lateral head of the triceps brachii muscle were recorded from 10 subjects during a sustained isometric 20 % maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) of the elbow extensors. Vibration was interposed on the contraction for 2 s every 10 s. Twenty-two motor units were recorded from the beginning of the fatigue task. The discharge rate of the majority of motor units remained constant (12/22) or increased (4/22) with fatigue. Six motor units demonstrated a reduction in discharge rate that later returned toward initial values; these motor units had higher initial discharge rates than the other 16 motor units. 3. In a second series of experiments, four subjects held a sustained isometric 20 % MVC for 2 min and then vibration was applied as above for the remainder of the contraction. In this case, motor units initially demonstrated a decrease in firing rate that increased after the vibration was applied. Thus muscle spindle disfacilitation of the motoneurone pool may be associated with the decline of motor unit discharge rate observed during the first 2 min of the contraction. 4. In a third set of experiments, seven subjects performed the main experiment on one occasion and repeated the fatigue task without vibration on a second occasion. Neither the endurance time of the fatiguing contraction nor the MVC torque following fatigue was affected by the application of vibration. This finding calls into question the applicability of the muscular wisdom hypothesis to submaximal contractions.

12 CFR 956.1 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... rates, or indices of asset values, or credit-related events. Derivative contracts include interest rate, foreign exchange rate, equity, precious metals, commodity, and credit contracts, and any other instruments that pose similar risks. Investment grade means: (1) A credit quality rating in one of the four highest...

48 CFR 942.705 - Final indirect cost rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 5 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Final indirect cost rates. 942.705 Section 942.705 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 942.705 Final indirect cost rates. ...

48 CFR 3442.705 - Final indirect cost rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 7 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Final indirect cost rates. 3442.705 Section 3442.705 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION ACQUISITION REGULATION CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION Indirect Cost Rates 3442.705 Final indirect cost rates...

Behavior of motor units in human biceps brachii during a submaximal fatiguing contraction.

PubMed

Garland, S J; Enoka, R M; Serrano, L P; Robinson, G A

1994-06-01

The activity of 50 single motor units was recorded in the biceps brachii muscle of human subjects while they performed submaximal isometric elbow flexion contractions that were sustained to induce fatigue. The purposes of this study were to examine the influence of fatigue on motor unit threshold force and to determine the relationship between the threshold force of recruitment and the initial interimpulse interval on the discharge rates of single motor units during a fatiguing contraction. The discharge rate of most motor units that were active from the beginning of the contraction declined during the fatiguing contraction, whereas the discharge rates of most newly recruited units were either constant or increased slightly. The absolute threshold forces of recruitment and derecruitment decreased, and the variability of interimpulse intervals increased after the fatigue task. The change in motor unit discharge rate during the fatigue task was related to the initial rate, but the direction of the change in discharge rate could not be predicted from the threshold force of recruitment or the variability in the interimpulse intervals. The discharge rate of most motor units declined despite an increase in the excitatory drive to the motoneuron pool during the fatigue task.

Comparative effects of contraction and angiotensin II on growth of adult feline cardiocytes in primary culture

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wada, H.; Zile, M. R.; Ivester, C. T.; Cooper, G. 4th; McDermott, P. J.

1996-01-01

The purposes of this study were 1) to determine whether angiotensin II causes growth of adult feline cardiocytes in long-term culture, 2) to compare the growth effects of angiotensin II with those resulting from electrically stimulated contraction, and 3) to determine whether the anabolic effects of contraction are exerted via the angiotensin type 1 receptor. Adult feline cardiocytes were cultured on laminin-coated trays in a serum-free medium. Cardiocytes were either electrically stimulated to contract (1 Hz, 5-ms pulse duration, alternating polarity) or were nonstimulated and quiescent. Quiescent cells were studied as controls and after treatment with angiotensin II (10(-8) M), losartan (10(-6) M; an angiotensin type 1-receptor antagonist), or angiotensin II plus losartan. Contracting cells were studied in the presence and absence of angiotensin II or losartan. In quiescent cardiocytes, angiotensin II treatment on day 7 significantly increased protein synthesis rates by 22% and protein content per cell by 17%. The effects of angiotensin II were completely blocked by losartan. Electrically stimulated contraction on days 4 and 7 in culture significantly increased protein synthesis rate by 18 and 38% and protein content per cell by 19 and 46%, respectively. Angiotensin II treatment did not further increase protein synthesis rate or protein content in contracting cardiocytes. Furthermore, losartan did not block the anabolic effects of contraction on protein synthesis rates or protein content. In conclusion, angiotensin II can exert a modest anabolic effect on adult feline cardiocytes in culture. In contracting feline cardiocytes, angiotensin II has no effect on growth. Growth caused by electrically stimulated contraction occurs more rapidly and is greater in magnitude than that caused by angiotensin II. Growth of contracting adult feline cardiocytes is not dependent on activation of the angiotensin receptor.

Collagen telopeptides (cross-linking sites) play a role in collagen gel lattice contraction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Woodley, D. T.; Yamauchi, M.; Wynn, K. C.; Mechanic, G.; Briggaman, R. A.

1991-01-01

Solubilized interstitial collagens will form a fibrillar, gel-like lattice when brought to physiologic conditions. In the presence of human dermal fibroblasts the collagen lattice will contract. The rate of contraction can be determined by computer-assisted planemetry. The mechanisms involved in contraction are as yet unknown. Using this system it was found that the rate of contraction was markedly decreased when collagen lacking telopeptides was substituted for native collagen. Histidinohydroxylysinonorleucine (HHL) is a major stable trifunctional collagen cross-link in mature skin that involves a carboxyl terminal, telopeptide site 16c, the sixteenth amino acid residue from the carboxy terminal of the telopeptide region of alpha 1 (I) in type I collagen. Little, if any, HHL was present in native, purified, reconstituted, soluble collagen fibrils from 1% acetic acid-extracted 2-year-old bovine skin. In contrast, HHL cross-links were present (0.22 moles of cross-link per mole of collagen) in lattices of the same collagen contracted by fibroblasts. However, rat tail tendon does not contain HHL cross-links, and collagen lattices made of rat tail tendon collagen are capable of contraction. This suggests that telopeptide sites, and not mature HHL cross-links per se, are essential for fibroblasts to contract collagen lattices. Beta-aminopropionitrile fumarate (BAPN), a potent lathyrogen that perturbs collagen cross-linking by inhibition of lysyl oxidase, also inhibited the rate of lattice cell contraction in lattices composed of native collagen. However, the concentrations of BAPN that were necessary to inhibit the contraction of collagen lattices also inhibited fibroblast growth suggestive of cellular toxicity. In accordance with other studies, we found no inhibition of the rate of lattice contraction when fibronectin-depleted serum was used. Electron microscopy of contracted gels revealed typical collagen fibers with a characteristic axial periodicity. The data provide evidence that collagen telopeptide sites play a role in collagen gel lattice contraction.

38 CFR 4.76a - Computation of average concentric contraction of visual fields.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... concentric contraction of visual fields. 4.76a Section 4.76a Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES Disability Ratings The Organs of Special Sense § 4.76a Computation of average concentric contraction of visual fields. Table III—Normal Visual...

48 CFR 842.705 - Final indirect cost rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 5 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Final indirect cost rates. 842.705 Section 842.705 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 842.705 Final indirect cost rates...

12 CFR 1750.2 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... Mortgage Corporation and any affiliate thereof. Foreign exchange rate contracts— (1) Means cross-currency interest rate swaps, forward foreign exchange contracts, currency options purchased (including currency... less and foreign exchange rate contracts traded on exchanges that require daily payment of variation...

48 CFR 331.101-70 - Salary rate limitation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Salary rate limitation... CONTRACTING REQUIREMENTS CONTRACT COST PRINCIPLES AND PROCEDURES Applicability 331.101-70 Salary rate... used to pay the direct salary of an individual at a rate in excess of the Federal Executive Schedule...

48 CFR 942.705-1 - Contracting officer determination procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 5 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Contracting officer determination procedure. 942.705-1 Section 942.705-1 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 942.705-1 Contracting...

Mechanism linking glycogen concentration and glycogenolytic rate in perfused contracting rat skeletal muscle.

PubMed Central

Hespel, P; Richter, E A

1992-01-01

The influence of differences in glycogen concentration on glycogen breakdown and on phosphorylase activity was investigated in perfused contracting rat skeletal muscle. The rats were preconditioned by a combination of swimming exercise and diet (carbohydrate-free or carbohydrate-rich) in order to obtain four sub-groups of rats with varying resting muscle glycogen concentrations (range 10-60 mumol/g wet wt.). Pre-contraction muscle glycogen concentration was closely positively correlated with glycogen breakdown over 15 min of intermittent short tetanic contractions (r = 0.75; P less than 0.001; n = 56) at the same tension development and oxygen uptake. Additional studies in supercompensated and glycogen-depleted hindquarters during electrical stimulation for 20 s or 2 min revealed that the difference in glycogenolytic rate was found at the beginning rather than at the end of the contraction period. Phosphorylase alpha activity was approximately twice as high (P less than 0.001) in supercompensated muscles as in glycogen-depleted muscles after 20 s as well as after 2 min of contractions. It is concluded that glycogen concentration is an important determinant of phosphorylase activity in contracting skeletal muscle, and probably via this mechanism a regulator of glycogenolytic rate during muscle contraction. PMID:1622395

48 CFR 52.222-44 - Fair Labor Standards Act and Service Contract Act-Price Adjustment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

..., contract unit price labor rates, or fixed hourly labor rates will be adjusted to reflect increases or... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Fair Labor Standards Act... CLAUSES Text of Provisions and Clauses 52.222-44 Fair Labor Standards Act and Service Contract Act—Price...

48 CFR 1228.306-70 - Contracts for lease of aircraft.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... contract for the lease of aircraft, except in the following circumstances: (1) When the hourly rental rate...: (2) When the cost of hull insurance does not exceed 10 percent of the contract rate; or (3) When the... or death of persons, or damage or loss of property unless the aircraft is in the actual possession or...

48 CFR 1228.306-70 - Contracts for lease of aircraft.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... contract for the lease of aircraft, except in the following circumstances: (1) When the hourly rental rate...: (2) When the cost of hull insurance does not exceed 10 percent of the contract rate; or (3) When the... or death of persons, or damage or loss of property unless the aircraft is in the actual possession or...

Studies of Braille Reading Rates and Implications for the Unified English Braille Code

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wetzel, Robin; Knowlton, Marie

2006-01-01

Reading rate data was collected from both print and braille readers in the areas of mathematics and literary braille. Literary braille data was collected for contracted and uncontracted braille text with dropped whole-word contractions and part-word contractions as they would appear in the Unified English Braille Code. No significant differences…

48 CFR 42.1701 - Procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Forward Pricing Rate Agreements 42.1701 Procedures. (a) Negotiation of forward pricing rate agreements (FPRA's) may be requested by the contracting officer or the... obtain the contractor's forward pricing rate proposal and require that it include cost or pricing data...

48 CFR 42.1701 - Procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Forward Pricing Rate Agreements 42.1701 Procedures. (a) Negotiation of forward pricing rate agreements (FPRA's) may be requested by the contracting officer or the... obtain the contractor's forward pricing rate proposal and require that it include cost or pricing data...

76 FR 38742 - Prompt Payment Interest Rate; Contract Disputes Act

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-07-01

... DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY Fiscal Service Prompt Payment Interest Rate; Contract Disputes Act... beginning July 1, 2011, and ending on December 31, 2011, the prompt payment interest rate is 2\\1/2\\ per.... 3902(a), provide for the calculation of interest due on claims at the rate established by the Secretary...

76 FR 82350 - Prompt Payment Interest Rate; Contract Disputes Act

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-12-30

... DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY Fiscal Service Prompt Payment Interest Rate; Contract Disputes Act... beginning January 1, 2012, and ending on June 30, 2012, the prompt payment interest rate is 2 per centum per... of interest due on claims at the rate established by the Secretary of the Treasury. The Secretary of...

78 FR 39063 - Prompt Payment Interest Rate; Contract Disputes Act

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-28

... DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY Fiscal Service Prompt Payment Interest Rate; Contract Disputes Act..., 2013, and ending on December 31, 2013, the prompt payment interest rate is 1\\3/4\\ per centum per annum... authority to specify the rate by which the interest shall be computed for interest payments under section 12...

77 FR 38888 - Prompt Payment Interest Rate; Contract Disputes Act

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-29

... DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY Fiscal Service Prompt Payment Interest Rate; Contract Disputes Act... beginning July 1, 2012, and ending on December 31, 2012, the prompt payment interest rate is 1\\3/4\\ per... interest due on claims at the rate established by the Secretary of the Treasury. The Secretary of the...

75 FR 82146 - Prompt Payment Interest Rate; Contract Disputes Act

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-12-29

... DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY Fiscal Service Prompt Payment Interest Rate; Contract Disputes Act... beginning January 1, 2011, and ending on June 30, 2011, the prompt payment interest rate is 2\\5/8\\ per... calculation of interest due on claims at the rate established by the Secretary of the Treasury. The Secretary...

75 FR 37881 - Prompt Payment Interest Rate; Contract Disputes Act

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-06-30

... DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY Fiscal Service Prompt Payment Interest Rate; Contract Disputes Act... beginning July 1, 2010, and ending on December 31, 2010, the prompt payment interest rate is 3\\1/8\\ per... of interest due on claims at the rate established by the Secretary of the Treasury. The Secretary of...

Inducing labor

MedlinePlus

... the cervix, and contractions may even begin. Your baby's heart rate will be monitored for a few hours. ... dose may be slowly increased as needed. Your baby's heart rate and the strength of your contractions will ...

48 CFR 242.705 - Final indirect cost rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 3 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Final indirect cost rates. 242.705 Section 242.705 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEFENSE ACQUISITION REGULATIONS SYSTEM, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 242...

76 FR 27117 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; C2 Options Exchange, Incorporated; Notice of Filing and Immediate...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-05-10

... exchange-traded fund (``ETF'') option classes traded on C2. Currently, transactions fees as set out in the... maker rebate and pay a liquidity removing taker rate of $.25 per contract; C2 Market-Makers receive a liquidity making rebate of $.25 per contract and pay a liquidity removing taker rate of $.34 per contract...

75 FR 39301 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; Notice of Filing and Immediate Effectiveness of Proposed Rule...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-07-08

...,000 contracts. Payments would be made at the stated rate for each tier for those contracts that fall... increasing the per contract rate on the Tier II and Tier III levels. The Exchange still continues to afford the members [sic] organizations who transact volume in Tier I a benefit as well. Amending the...

48 CFR 42.702 - Purpose.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... estimated rates subject to adjustment during contract performance and at the time the final indirect cost....702 Federal Acquisition Regulations System FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT... under this subpart provides— (1) Uniformity of approach with a contractor when more than one contract or...

48 CFR 42.702 - Purpose.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... estimated rates subject to adjustment during contract performance and at the time the final indirect cost....702 Federal Acquisition Regulations System FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT... under this subpart provides— (1) Uniformity of approach with a contractor when more than one contract or...

48 CFR 48.104-1 - Determining sharing period.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... CONTRACT MANAGEMENT VALUE ENGINEERING Policies and Procedures 48.104-1 Determining sharing period. (a.... (c) For engineering-development contracts and contracts containing low-rate-initial-production or...

CT imaging during microwave ablation: Analysis of spatial and temporal tissue contraction

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

Liu, Dong; Brace, Christopher L., E-mail: clbrace@wisc.edu

Purpose: To analyze the spatial distribution and temporal development of liver tissue contraction during high-temperature ablation by using intraprocedural computed tomography (CT) imaging. Methods: A total of 46 aluminum fiducial markers were positioned in a 60 × 45 mm grid, in a single plane, around a microwave ablation antenna in each of six ex vivo bovine liver samples. Ablations were performed for 10 min at 100 W. CT data of the liver sample were acquired every 30 s during ablation. Fiducial motion between acquisitions was tracked in postprocessing and used to calculate measures of tissue contraction and contraction rates. Themore » spatial distribution and temporal evolution of contraction were analyzed. Results: Fiducial displacement indicated that the zone measured postablation was 8.2 ± 1.8 mm (∼20%) smaller in the radial direction and 7.1 ± 1.0 mm (∼10%) shorter in the longitudinal direction than the preablation tissue dimension. Therefore, the total ablation volume was reduced from its preablation value by approximately 45%. Very little longitudinal contraction was noted in the distal portion of the ablation zone. Central tissues contracted more than 60%, which was near an estimated limit of ∼70% based on initial water content. More peripheral tissues contracted only 15% in any direction. Contraction rates peaked during the first 60 s of heating with a roughly exponential decay over time. Conclusions: Ablation zones measured posttreatment are significantly smaller than the pretreatment tissue dimensions. Tissue contraction is spatially dependent, with the greatest effect occurring in the central ablation zone. Contraction rate peaks early and decays over time.« less

77 FR 76624 - Prompt Payment Interest Rate; Contract Disputes Act

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-12-28

... DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY Fiscal Service Prompt Payment Interest Rate; Contract Disputes Act... beginning January 1, 2013, and ending on June 30, 2013, the prompt payment interest rate is 1-3/8 per centum... Prompt Payment Act, 31 U.S.C. 3902(a), provide for the calculation of interest due on claims at the rate...

29 CFR 4.118 - Contracts for carriage subject to published tariff rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 29 Labor 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 true Contracts for carriage subject to published tariff rates. 4... subject to published tariff rates. The Act, in paragraph (3) of section 7, exempts from its provisions..., railway line or oil or gas pipeline where published tariff rates are in effect”. In order for this...

75 FR 48399 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; Chicago Board Options Exchange, Incorporated; Notice of Filing and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-08-10

... rate of $0.10 per contract in SPY options and $0.00 per contract in IWM options. CBOE proposes to assess the marketing fee at the rate of $0.25 per contract in SPY options and IWM options, which is... Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (``Act''),\\1\\ and Rule 19b-4 thereunder,\\2\\ notice is hereby given that on...

48 CFR 1542.705-70 - Solicitation and contract clause.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 6 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 true Solicitation and contract clause. 1542.705-70 Section 1542.705-70 Federal Acquisition Regulations System ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION Indirect Cost Rates 1542.705-70 Solicitation and...

77 FR 70852 - International Mail Contract

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-11-27

... Service filing concerning a Type 2 rate adjustment in conjunction with a mail contract with Hongkong Post..., pursuant to 39 CFR 3010.40 et seq., announcing a Type 2 rate adjustment in conjunction with a new...

77 FR 70849 - International Mail Contract

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-11-27

... Service filing concerning a Type 2 rate adjustment in conjunction with a mail contract with China Post..., pursuant to 39 CFR 3010.40 et seq., announcing a Type 2 rate adjustment in conjunction with a new...

48 CFR 1832.501-1 - Customary progress payment rates. (NASA supplements paragraph (a))

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... System NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION GENERAL CONTRACTING REQUIREMENTS CONTRACT FINANCING... II contracts in the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer...

48 CFR 1832.501-1 - Customary progress payment rates. (NASA supplements paragraph (a))

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... System NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION GENERAL CONTRACTING REQUIREMENTS CONTRACT FINANCING... II contracts in the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer...

48 CFR 1832.501-1 - Customary progress payment rates. (NASA supplements paragraph (a))

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... System NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION GENERAL CONTRACTING REQUIREMENTS CONTRACT FINANCING... II contracts in the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer...

48 CFR 1832.501-1 - Customary progress payment rates. (NASA supplements paragraph (a))

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... System NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION GENERAL CONTRACTING REQUIREMENTS CONTRACT FINANCING... II contracts in the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer...

29 CFR 4.163 - Section 4(c) of the Act.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... their support contracts. Thus, specific contract requirements from one contract may be broken out and... substantially the same job classifications, the predecessor contract which covers the greater portion of the... bargaining agreement. However, failure to include in the wage determination any job classification, wage rate...

29 CFR 4.163 - Section 4(c) of the Act.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... their support contracts. Thus, specific contract requirements from one contract may be broken out and... substantially the same job classifications, the predecessor contract which covers the greater portion of the... bargaining agreement. However, failure to include in the wage determination any job classification, wage rate...

29 CFR 4.163 - Section 4(c) of the Act.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... their support contracts. Thus, specific contract requirements from one contract may be broken out and... substantially the same job classifications, the predecessor contract which covers the greater portion of the... bargaining agreement. However, failure to include in the wage determination any job classification, wage rate...

29 CFR 4.163 - Section 4(c) of the Act.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... their support contracts. Thus, specific contract requirements from one contract may be broken out and... substantially the same job classifications, the predecessor contract which covers the greater portion of the... bargaining agreement. However, failure to include in the wage determination any job classification, wage rate...

Selective heart rate variability analysis to account for uterine activity during labor and improve classification of fetal distress.

PubMed

Warmerdam, G J J; Vullings, R; Van Laar, J O E H; Van der Hout-Van der Jagt, M B; Bergmans, J W M; Schmitt, L; Oei, S G

2016-08-01

Cardiotocography (CTG) is currently the most often used technique for detection of fetal distress. Unfortunately, CTG has a poor specificity. Recent studies suggest that, in addition to CTG, information on fetal distress can be obtained from analysis of fetal heart rate variability (HRV). However, uterine contractions can strongly influence fetal HRV. The aim of this study is therefore to investigate whether HRV analysis for detection of fetal distress can be improved by distinguishing contractions from rest periods. Our results from feature selection indicate that HRV features calculated separately during contractions or during rest periods are more informative on fetal distress than HRV features that are calculated over the entire fetal heart rate. Furthermore, classification performance improved from a geometric mean of 69.0% to 79.6% when including the contraction-dependent HRV features, in addition to HRV features calculated over the entire fetal heart rate.

48 CFR 1516.405-271 - Limitations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... METHODS AND CONTRACT TYPES TYPES OF CONTRACTS Incentive Contracts 1516.405-271 Limitations. (a) No award... satisfactory or excellent. All award fee plans shall disclose to offerors the numerical rating necessary to be...

An optimization modeling approach to awarding large fire support wildfire helicopter contracts from the US Forest Service

Treesearch

Stephanie A. Snyder; Keith D. Stockmann; Gaylord E. Morris

2012-01-01

The US Forest Service used contracted helicopter services as part of its wildfire suppression strategy. An optimization decision-modeling system was developed to assist in the contract selection process. Three contract award selection criteria were considered: cost per pound of delivered water, total contract cost, and quality ratings of the aircraft and vendors....

AMPKα2 deficiency uncovers time dependency in the regulation of contraction-induced palmitate and glucose uptake in mouse muscle.

PubMed

Abbott, Marcia J; Bogachus, Lindsey D; Turcotte, Lorraine P

2011-07-01

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a fuel sensor in skeletal muscle with multiple downstream signaling targets that may be triggered by increases in intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)]). The purpose of this study was to determine whether increases in intracellular [Ca(2+)] induced by caffeine act solely via AMPKα(2) and whether AMPKα(2) is essential to increase glucose uptake, fatty acid (FA) uptake, and FA oxidation in contracting skeletal muscle. Hindlimbs from wild-type (WT) or AMPKα(2) dominant-negative (DN) transgene mice were perfused during rest (n = 11), treatment with 3 mM caffeine (n = 10), or muscle contraction (n = 11). Time-dependent effects on glucose and FA uptake were uncovered throughout the 20-min muscle contraction perfusion period (P < 0.05). Glucose uptake rates did not increase in DN mice during muscle contraction until the last 5 min of the protocol (P < 0.05). FA uptake rates were elevated at the onset of muscle contraction and diminished by the end of the protocol in DN mice (P < 0.05). FA oxidation rates were abolished in the DN mice during muscle contraction (P < 0.05). The DN transgene had no effect on caffeine-induced FA uptake and oxidation (P > 0.05). Glucose uptake rates were blunted in caffeine-treated DN mice (P < 0.05). The DN transgene resulted in a greater use of intramuscular triglycerides as a fuel source during muscle contraction. The DN transgene did not alter caffeine- or contraction-mediated changes in the phosphorylation of Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase I or ERK1/2 (P > 0.05). These data suggest that AMPKα(2) is involved in the regulation of substrate uptake in a time-dependent manner in contracting muscle but is not necessary for regulation of FA uptake and oxidation during caffeine treatment.

29 CFR 4.169 - Wage payments-work subject to different rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 4.169 Labor Office of the Secretary of Labor LABOR STANDARDS FOR FEDERAL SERVICE CONTRACTS... rates. If an employee during a workweek works in different capacities in the performance of the contract... which he or she performs, the employee must be paid the highest of such rates for all hours worked in...

7 CFR 1717.306 - RUS required rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

...-emption in Rate Making in Connection With Power Supply Borrowers § 1717.306 RUS required rates. (a) Upon... of RUS that are sufficient to satisfy the requirements of the RUS wholesale power contract and other... with terms of the RUS wholesale power contract and other RUS documents in a timely fashion, RUS may...

7 CFR 1717.306 - RUS required rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

...-emption in Rate Making in Connection With Power Supply Borrowers § 1717.306 RUS required rates. (a) Upon... of RUS that are sufficient to satisfy the requirements of the RUS wholesale power contract and other... with terms of the RUS wholesale power contract and other RUS documents in a timely fashion, RUS may...

41 CFR 102-82.20 - What are Executive agencies' rate intervention responsibilities?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 3 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false What are Executive agencies' rate intervention responsibilities? 102-82.20 Section 102-82.20 Public Contracts and Property... PROPERTY 82-UTILITY SERVICES Utility Services § 102-82.20 What are Executive agencies' rate intervention...

41 CFR 102-82.20 - What are Executive agencies' rate intervention responsibilities?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 3 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false What are Executive agencies' rate intervention responsibilities? 102-82.20 Section 102-82.20 Public Contracts and Property... PROPERTY 82-UTILITY SERVICES Utility Services § 102-82.20 What are Executive agencies' rate intervention...

41 CFR 102-82.20 - What are Executive agencies' rate intervention responsibilities?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false What are Executive agencies' rate intervention responsibilities? 102-82.20 Section 102-82.20 Public Contracts and Property... PROPERTY 82-UTILITY SERVICES Utility Services § 102-82.20 What are Executive agencies' rate intervention...

41 CFR 102-82.20 - What are Executive agencies' rate intervention responsibilities?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 3 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false What are Executive agencies' rate intervention responsibilities? 102-82.20 Section 102-82.20 Public Contracts and Property... PROPERTY 82-UTILITY SERVICES Utility Services § 102-82.20 What are Executive agencies' rate intervention...

41 CFR 102-82.20 - What are Executive agencies' rate intervention responsibilities?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 3 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false What are Executive agencies' rate intervention responsibilities? 102-82.20 Section 102-82.20 Public Contracts and Property... PROPERTY 82-UTILITY SERVICES Utility Services § 102-82.20 What are Executive agencies' rate intervention...

Physician Payment Contracts in the Presence of Moral Hazard and Adverse Selection: The Theory and Its Application in Ontario.

PubMed

Kantarevic, Jasmin; Kralj, Boris

2016-10-01

We develop a stylized principal-agent model with moral hazard and adverse selection to provide a unified framework for understanding some of the most salient features of the recent physician payment reform in Ontario and its impact on physician behavior. These features include the following: (i) physicians can choose a payment contract from a menu that includes an enhanced fee-for-service contract and a blended capitation contract; (ii) the capitation rate is higher, and the cost-reimbursement rate is lower in the blended capitation contract; (iii) physicians sort selectively into the contracts based on their preferences; and (iv) physicians in the blended capitation model provide fewer services than physicians in the enhanced fee-for-service model. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

26 CFR 1.460-6 - Look-back method.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... costs and that are permanent because, for example, tax rates change during the term of the contract. (2... from a long-term contract prior to the completion of a contract. Paragraph (h) provides examples... long-term contract meets the gross receipts test for both alternative minimum tax and regular tax...

48 CFR 22.406-9 - Withholding from or suspension of contract payments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... Standards for Contracts Involving Construction 22.406-9 Withholding from or suspension of contract payments... contract with the same prime contractor that is subject to either Construction Wage Rate Requirements... contractor or subcontractor fails or refuses to comply with the labor standards clauses of the Construction...

Contraction rate, flow modification and bed layering impact on scour at the elliptical guide banks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gjunsburgs, B.; Jaudzems, G.; Bizane, M.; Bulankina, V.

2017-10-01

Flow contraction by the bridge crossing structures, intakes, embankments, piers, abutments and guide banks leads to general scour and the local scour in the vicinity of the structures. Local scour is depending on flow, river bed and structures parameters and correct understanding of the impact of each parameter can reduce failure possibility of the structures. The paper explores hydraulic contraction, the discharge redistribution between channel and floodplain during the flood, local flow modification and river bed layering on depth, width and volume of scour hole near the elliptical guide banks on low-land rivers. Experiments in a flume, our method for scour calculation and computer modelling results confirm a considerable impact of the contraction rate of the flow, the discharge redistribution between channel and floodplain, the local velocity, backwater and river bed layering on the depth, width, and volume of scour hole in steady and unsteady flow, under clear water condition. With increase of the contraction rate of the flow, the discharge redistribution between channel and floodplain, the local velocity, backwater values, the scour depth increases. At the same contraction rate, but at a different Fr number, the scour depth is different: with increase in the Fr number, the local velocity, backwater, scour depth, width, and volume is increasing. Acceptance of the geometrical contraction of the flow, approach velocity and top sand layer of the river bed for scour depth calculation as accepted now, may be the reason of the structures failure and human life losses.

Effect of hypokinesia on contractile function of cardiac muscle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Meyerson, F. Z.; Kapelko, V. I.; Trikhpoyeva, A. M.; Gorina, M. S.

1980-01-01

Rats were subjected to hypokinesia for two months and the contractile function of isolated papillary muscle was studied. Hypokinesia reduced significantly the isotonic contraction rate which depended on the ATPase activity of the myofibrils; it also reduced the rate and index of relaxation which depended on the functional capacity of the Ca(++) pump of the sarcoplasmic reticulum. The maximum force of isometric contraction determined by the quantity of actomyosin bridges in the myofibrils did not change after hypokinesia. This complex of changes is contrary to that observed in adaptation to exercise when the rate of isotonic contraction and relaxation increases while the force of isometric contraction does not change. The possible mechanism of this stability of the contractile force during adaptation and readaptation of the heart is discussed.

Adjustments in motor unit properties during fatiguing contractions after training.

PubMed

Vila-Chã, Carolina; Falla, Deborah; Correia, Miguel Velhote; Farina, Dario

2012-04-01

The objective of the study was to investigate the effect of strength and endurance training on muscle fiber membrane properties and discharge rates of low-threshold motor units of the vasti muscles during fatiguing contractions. Twenty-five sedentary healthy men (age (mean ± SD) = 26.3 ± 3.9 yr) were randomly assigned to one of three groups: strength training, endurance training, or a control group. Conventional endurance and strength training was performed 3 d·wk⁻¹, during a period of 6 wk. Motor unit conduction velocity and EMG amplitude of the vastus medialis obliquus and lateralis muscles and biceps femoris were measured during sustained isometric knee extensions at 10% and 30% of the maximum voluntary contraction before and immediately after training. After 6 wk of training, the reduction in motor unit conduction velocity during the sustained contractions at 30% of the maximum voluntary force occurred at slower rates compared with baseline (P < 0.05). However, the rate of decrease was lower after endurance training compared with strength training (P < 0.01). For all groups, motor unit discharge rates declined during the sustained contraction (P < 0.001), and their trend was not altered by training. In addition, the biceps femoris-vasti coactivation ratio declined after the endurance training. Short-term strength and endurance training induces alterations of the electrophysiological membrane properties of the muscle fiber. In particular, endurance training lowers the rate of decline of motor unit conduction velocity during sustained contractions more than strength training.

48 CFR 1509.170-7 - Release of ratings.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... ACQUISITION PLANNING CONTRACTOR QUALIFICATIONS Contractor Performance Evaluations 1509.170-7 Release of... contacting the EPA contracting officer responsible for the evaluation. (b) Contractors' performance ratings... contract is located. Requests for past performance evaluations during the period the information may be...

Effect of ageing on the force development in tetanic contractions of motor units in rat medial gastrocnemius muscle.

PubMed

Łochyński, Dawid; Kaczmarek, Dominik; Krutki, Piotr; Celichowski, Jan

2010-09-01

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of ageing on the rate of force generation of motor units, and the mechanical efficiency of contraction produced by a doublet discharge. The study was carried out on isolated motor units of rat medial gastrocnemius muscle of young (5-10 mo) and two groups of old (24-25 and 28-30 mo) Wistar rats. Motor units were classified into the fast fatigable (FF), fast resistant (FR) and slow (S) ones. The force output and rate of force development were determined for non-doublet unfused tetanic contractions evoked by a series of a constant-rate trains of pulses and corresponding doublet contractions starting with an initial brief interpulse interval of 5 ms, and for maximal tetanic contraction. In FF motor units the rate of force development and the force produced by the doublet discharge increased transiently at the age of 24-25 mo, while in S and FR motor units this increase was observed at the age of 28-30 mo. Age-related decrease in the rate of force development of skeletal muscle cannot be attributed to a decline in efficiency of force production by functioning motor units. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

24 CFR 246.8 - Materials to be submitted to HUD in support of preemption request.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... separate breakdown of rent loss due to tenant turnover for the past 2 years. (6) A certified statement... by the following: (i) Tax rates or appraisals, (ii) Utility rates, (iii) Contracts for employees or... appraisals, (ii) Utility rates, (iii) Contracts for employees or services, (iv) Insurance. If there are none...

Coiled fiber scaffolds embedded with gold nanoparticles improve the performance of engineered cardiac tissues

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fleischer, Sharon; Shevach, Michal; Feiner, Ron; Dvir, Tal

2014-07-01

Coiled perimysial fibers within the heart muscle provide it with the ability to contract and relax efficiently. Here, we report on a new nanocomposite scaffold for cardiac tissue engineering, integrating coiled electrospun fibers with gold nanoparticles. Cultivation of cardiac cells within the hybrid scaffolds promoted cell organization into elongated and aligned tissues generating a strong contraction force, high contraction rate and low excitation threshold.Coiled perimysial fibers within the heart muscle provide it with the ability to contract and relax efficiently. Here, we report on a new nanocomposite scaffold for cardiac tissue engineering, integrating coiled electrospun fibers with gold nanoparticles. Cultivation of cardiac cells within the hybrid scaffolds promoted cell organization into elongated and aligned tissues generating a strong contraction force, high contraction rate and low excitation threshold. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c4nr00300d

Exploring the market for third-party-owned residential photovoltaic systems: insights from lease and power-purchase agreement contract structures and costs in California

DOE PAGES

Davidson, Carolyn; Steinberg, Daniel; Margolis, Robert

2015-02-04

We report that over the past several years, third-party-ownership (TPO) structures for residential photovoltaic (PV) systems have become the predominant ownership model in the US residential market. Under a TPO contract, the PV system host typically makes payments to the third-party owner of the system. Anecdotal evidence suggests that the total TPO contract payments made by the customer can differ significantly from payments in which the system host directly purchases the system. Furthermore, payments can vary depending on TPO contract structure. To date, a paucity of data on TPO contracts has precluded studies evaluating trends in TPO contract cost. Thismore » study relies on a sample of 1113 contracts for residential PV systems installed in 2010–2012 under the California Solar Initiative to evaluate how the timing of payments under a TPO contract impacts the ultimate cost of the system to the customer. Furthermore, we evaluate how the total cost of TPO systems to customers has changed through time, and the degree to which contract costs have tracked trends in the installed costs of a PV system. We find that the structure of the contract and the timing of the payments have financial implications for the customer: (1) power-purchase contracts, on average, cost more than leases, (2) no-money-down contracts are more costly than prepaid contracts, assuming a customer's discount rate is lower than 17% and (3) contracts that include escalator clauses cost more, for both power-purchase agreements and leases, at most plausible discount rates. Additionally, all contract costs exhibit a wide range, and do not parallel trends in installed costs over time.« less

Exploring the market for third-party-owned residential photovoltaic systems: insights from lease and power-purchase agreement contract structures and costs in California

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Davidson, Carolyn; Steinberg, Daniel; Margolis, Robert

2015-02-01

Over the past several years, third-party-ownership (TPO) structures for residential photovoltaic (PV) systems have become the predominant ownership model in the US residential market. Under a TPO contract, the PV system host typically makes payments to the third-party owner of the system. Anecdotal evidence suggests that the total TPO contract payments made by the customer can differ significantly from payments in which the system host directly purchases the system. Furthermore, payments can vary depending on TPO contract structure. To date, a paucity of data on TPO contracts has precluded studies evaluating trends in TPO contract cost. This study relies on a sample of 1113 contracts for residential PV systems installed in 2010-2012 under the California Solar Initiative to evaluate how the timing of payments under a TPO contract impacts the ultimate cost of the system to the customer. Furthermore, we evaluate how the total cost of TPO systems to customers has changed through time, and the degree to which contract costs have tracked trends in the installed costs of a PV system. We find that the structure of the contract and the timing of the payments have financial implications for the customer: (1) power-purchase contracts, on average, cost more than leases, (2) no-money-down contracts are more costly than prepaid contracts, assuming a customer’s discount rate is lower than 17% and (3) contracts that include escalator clauses cost more, for both power-purchase agreements and leases, at most plausible discount rates. In addition, all contract costs exhibit a wide range, and do not parallel trends in installed costs over time.

Exploring the market for third-party-owned residential photovoltaic systems: insights from lease and power-purchase agreement contract structures and costs in California

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

Davidson, Carolyn; Steinberg, Daniel; Margolis, Robert

We report that over the past several years, third-party-ownership (TPO) structures for residential photovoltaic (PV) systems have become the predominant ownership model in the US residential market. Under a TPO contract, the PV system host typically makes payments to the third-party owner of the system. Anecdotal evidence suggests that the total TPO contract payments made by the customer can differ significantly from payments in which the system host directly purchases the system. Furthermore, payments can vary depending on TPO contract structure. To date, a paucity of data on TPO contracts has precluded studies evaluating trends in TPO contract cost. Thismore » study relies on a sample of 1113 contracts for residential PV systems installed in 2010–2012 under the California Solar Initiative to evaluate how the timing of payments under a TPO contract impacts the ultimate cost of the system to the customer. Furthermore, we evaluate how the total cost of TPO systems to customers has changed through time, and the degree to which contract costs have tracked trends in the installed costs of a PV system. We find that the structure of the contract and the timing of the payments have financial implications for the customer: (1) power-purchase contracts, on average, cost more than leases, (2) no-money-down contracts are more costly than prepaid contracts, assuming a customer's discount rate is lower than 17% and (3) contracts that include escalator clauses cost more, for both power-purchase agreements and leases, at most plausible discount rates. Additionally, all contract costs exhibit a wide range, and do not parallel trends in installed costs over time.« less

41 CFR 109-40.304 - Rate tenders to the Government.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Rate tenders to the Government. 109-40.304 Section 109-40.304 Public Contracts and Property Management Federal Property Management Regulations System (Continued) DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY PROPERTY MANAGEMENT REGULATIONS AVIATION...

Endurance training facilitates myoglobin desaturation during muscle contraction in rat skeletal muscle.

PubMed

Takakura, Hisashi; Furuichi, Yasuro; Yamada, Tatsuya; Jue, Thomas; Ojino, Minoru; Hashimoto, Takeshi; Iwase, Satoshi; Hojo, Tatsuya; Izawa, Tetsuya; Masuda, Kazumi

2015-03-24

At onset of muscle contraction, myoglobin (Mb) immediately releases its bound O2 to the mitochondria. Accordingly, intracellular O2 tension (PmbO2) markedly declines in order to increase muscle O2 uptake (mVO2). However, whether the change in PmbO2 during muscle contraction modulates mVO2 and whether the O2 release rate from Mb increases in endurance-trained muscles remain unclear. The purpose of this study was, therefore, to determine the effect of endurance training on O2 saturation of Mb (SmbO2) and PmbO2 kinetics during muscle contraction. Male Wistar rats were subjected to a 4-week swimming training (Tr group; 6 days per week, 30 min × 4 sets per day) with a weight load of 2% body mass. After the training period, deoxygenated Mb kinetics during muscle contraction were measured using near-infrared spectroscopy under hemoglobin-free medium perfusion. In the Tr group, the VmO2peak significantly increased by 32%. Although the PmbO2 during muscle contraction did not affect the increased mVO2 in endurance-trained muscle, the O2 release rate from Mb increased because of the increased Mb concentration and faster decremental rate in SmbO2 at the maximal twitch tension. These results suggest that the Mb dynamics during muscle contraction are contributing factors to faster VO2 kinetics in endurance-trained muscle.

Hospital nurse job attitudes and performance: the impact of employment status.

PubMed

Chu, Cheng-I; Hsu, Yao-Feng

2011-03-01

According to the 2007 Taiwan Labor Front Human Resources Report, as much as 47.6% of nurses at some public hospitals were contracted rather than full time. Furthermore, turnover rates for contract nurses were found to be as high as five to eight times of those for full-time nurses. Because high turnover rates are likely to induce negative impacts on the stability of care provided in the absence of staffing continuity, the association between nursing employment arrangement and nursing care quality is attracting greater attention. This study was designed to investigate the work status of contract versus full-time nurses at a public hospital in Taiwan and to examine the impact of such on work-related attitudes, organizational citizenship behavior, and job performance. Samples were recruited from a public hospital in Taiwan. In addition to self-rated items, researchers used supervisor-rated structured questionnaires for job performance to attenuate the possible effect of common method bias. The study investigated the impact of hospital nurse employment status on work-related attitudes, organizational citizenship behavior, and job performance using a regression model that included the critical work-related attitudes variables of job satisfaction and organizational commitment. Study findings included the following: (a) organizational commitment, job satisfaction, organizational citizenship behavior, and job performance correlate positively with one another. (b) No significant difference between contract and full-time nurses was found in terms of organizational commitment, job satisfaction, organizational citizenship behavior, and self-rated job performance. However, when rated by supervisors, reported job performance levels for full-time nurses were significantly higher than those of contract nurses. (c) Organizational citizenship behavior exhibited a mediating effect between job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and job performance. In this study, supervisors gave higher job performance ratings to full-time nurses than to contract nurses. This result deserves further investigation.

LPTA Versus Tradeoff: How Procurement Methods Can Impact Contract Performance

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-06-01

and Technology BBP Better Buying Power BPA Blanket Purchase Agreement CAR Contract Action Report COR Contracting Officer’s...Blanket Purchase Agreements ( BPAs ), which utilize streamlined contracting in the form of orders to award requirements faster. Under IDIQs, GSA vehicles...and BPA agreements the rates are typically pre-negotiated with the set of vendors, leaving little necessity for negotiation and tradeoff tactics

34 CFR 614.6 - What is the maximum indirect cost rate for all consortium members and any cost-type contract?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... PREPARING TOMORROW'S TEACHERS TO USE TECHNOLOGY § 614.6 What is the maximum indirect cost rate for all... 34 Education 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false What is the maximum indirect cost rate for all consortium members and any cost-type contract? 614.6 Section 614.6 Education Regulations of the Offices of...

48 CFR 552.243-71 - Equitable Adjustments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

...) Markups. (3) Change to the time for completion specified in the contract. (e) Direct costs. The Contractor... contract regarding the Contractor's project schedule. (h) Markups. For each firm whose direct costs are... applicable, a bond rate and insurance rate. Markups shall be determined and applied as follows: (1) Overhead...

77 FR 27827 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; Chicago Mercantile Exchange Inc.; Notice of Filing and Immediate...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-05-11

... margin calculations for these portfolios and perform ``what if'' analyses. The portfolio margining... Change Relating to Adoption of Interest Rate Futures Contracts Portfolio Margining Program With Eris... adopt an interest rate futures contracts portfolio margining program with Eris Exchange, LLC (``Eris...

SUBJECTIVE ESTIMATION OF EFFORT, RESERVE, AND ISCHEMIC PAIN.

DTIC Science & Technology

Two studies were conducted to compare: (1) ratings of pain and effort induced by a muscle contraction maintained to the limit of endurance; and (2...sensations increased in intensity. The rate of growth of the sensations of pain and effort were influenced by the strength of the muscle contraction . The

LPTA versus Tradeoff: Analysis of Contract Source Selection Strategies and Performance Outcomes

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-06-15

methodologies contracting professionals employ to acquire what the DOD needs. Contracting professionals may use lowest price technically acceptable...17 1. 2. Lowest Price Technically Acceptable...Acquisition Streamlining Act Government Accountability Office highest technically rated offeror independent variable lowest price technically

26 CFR 1.817A-0 - Table of contents.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

.... (5) Examples. (c) Applicable interest rates for equity-indexed modified guaranteed contracts... appear in section § 1.817A-1: § 1.817A-1Certain modified guaranteed contracts. (a) Definitions. (1) Modified guaranteed contract. (2) Temporary guarantee period. (3) Equity-indexed modified guaranteed...

Using uterine activity to improve fetal heart rate variability analysis for detection of asphyxia during labor.

PubMed

Warmerdam, G J J; Vullings, R; Van Laar, J O E H; Van der Hout-Van der Jagt, M B; Bergmans, J W M; Schmitt, L; Oei, S G

2016-03-01

During labor, uterine contractions can cause temporary oxygen deficiency for the fetus. In case of severe and prolonged oxygen deficiency this can lead to asphyxia. The currently used technique for detection of asphyxia, cardiotocography (CTG), suffers from a low specificity. Recent studies suggest that analysis of fetal heart rate variability (HRV) in addition to CTG can provide information on fetal distress. However, interpretation of fetal HRV during labor is difficult due to the influence of uterine contractions on fetal HRV. The aim of this study is therefore to investigate whether HRV features differ during contraction and rest periods, and whether these differences can improve the detection of asphyxia. To this end, a case-control study was performed, using 14 cases with asphyxia that were matched with 14 healthy fetuses. We did not find significant differences for individual HRV features when calculated over the fetal heart rate without separating contractions and rest periods (p  >  0.30 for all HRV features). Separating contractions from rest periods did result in a significant difference. In particular the ratio between HRV features calculated during and outside contractions can improve discrimination between fetuses with and without asphyxia (p  <  0.04 for three out of four ratio HRV features that were studied in this paper).

Optimum contracted-for water supply for hotels in arid coastal regions.

PubMed

Lamei, A; von Münch, E; van der Zaag, P; Imam, E

2009-01-01

Hotels in arid coastal areas use mainly desalinated water for their domestic water demands, and treated wastewater for irrigating green areas. Private water companies supply these hotels with their domestic water needs. There is normally a contractual agreement stating a minimum requirement that has to be supplied by the water company and that the hotel management has to pay for regardless of its actual consumption ("contracted-for water supply"). This paper describes a model to determine what value a hotel should choose for its contracted-for water supply in order to minimize its total annual water costs. An example from an arid coastal tourism-dominated city is presented: Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt.The managers of hotels with expected high occupancy rates (74% and above) can contract for more than 80%. On the other hand, hotels with expected lower occupancy rates (60% and less) can contract for less than 70% of the peak daily domestic water demand. With a green area ratio of 40 m(2)/room or less, an on-site wastewater treatment plant can satisfy the required irrigation demand for an occupancy rate as low as 42%. Increasing the ratio of green irrigated area to 100 m(2)/room does not affect the contracted-for water supply at occupancy rates above 72%; at lower occupancy rates, however, on-site treated wastewater is insufficient for irrigating the green areas. Increasing the green irrigated area to 120 m(2)/room increases the need for additional water, either from externally sourced treated wastewater or potable water. The cost of the former is much lower than the latter (0.58 versus 1.52 to 2.14 US$/m(3) in the case study area).

Hemodynamics of a functional centrifugal-flow total artificial heart with functional atrial contraction in goats.

PubMed

Shiga, Takuya; Shiraishi, Yasuyuki; Sano, Kyosuke; Taira, Yasunori; Tsuboko, Yusuke; Yamada, Akihiro; Miura, Hidekazu; Katahira, Shintaro; Akiyama, Masatoshi; Saiki, Yoshikatsu; Yambe, Tomoyuki

2016-03-01

Implantation of a total artificial heart (TAH) is one of the therapeutic options for the treatment of patients with end-stage biventricular heart failure. There is no report on the hemodynamics of the functional centrifugal-flow TAH with functional atrial contraction (fCFTAH). We evaluated the effects of pulsatile flow by atrial contraction in acute animal models. The goats received fCFTAH that we created from two centrifugal-flow ventricular assist devices. Some hemodynamic parameters maintained acceptable levels: heart rate 115.5 ± 26.3 bpm, aortic pressure 83.5 ± 10.1 mmHg, left atrial pressure 18.0 ± 5.9 mmHg, pulmonary pressure 28.5 ± 9.7 mmHg, right atrial pressure 13.6 ± 5.2 mmHg, pump flow 4.0 ± 1.1 L/min (left) 3.9 ± 1.1 L/min (right), and cardiac index 2.13 ± 0.14 L/min/m(2). fCFTAH with atrial contraction was able to maintain the TAH circulation by forming a pulsatile flow in acute animal experiments. Taking the left and right flow rate balance using the low internal pressure loss of the VAD pumps may be easier than by other pumps having considerable internal pressure loss. We showed that the remnant atrial contraction effected the flow rate change of the centrifugal pump, and the atrial contraction waves reflected the heart rate. These results indicate that remnant atria had the possibility to preserve autonomic function in fCFTAH. We may control fCFTAH by reflecting the autonomic function, which is estimated with the flow rate change of the centrifugal pump.

A snap shot of patients' recall, attitudes, and perceptions of their pain contracts from a family medicine resident outpatient clinic.

PubMed

Bahniwal, Robinder; Sell, Jarrett; Waheed, Abdul

Determine patient recall, attitudes, and perceptions of their pain contract in a family medicine resident out-patient clinic. A cross-sectional study design using a telephone survey to all eligible subjects who signed a hardcopy pain contract from August 29, 2014 to May 19, 2016 at a resident outpatient clinic. Penn State Hershey Family and Community Medicine Residency clinic. All patients who signed a hardcopy pain contract at the practice site who met specific inclusion criteria. What proportions of items are remembered from the standardized Penn State Hershey pain contract and does recall vary with time of contract signing. Patient attitudes and perceptions of their pain contract. Ninety-five percent of patients recalled agreeing to random urine drug screens (UDS) and 60 percent recalled they were not to receive prescriptions from another provider unless approved by their practice site. The recall rate for the remaining 33 items in the contract ranged from 0 percent to 20 percent. The highest recall rate was for contracts signed between 0-3 months. Patient feedback regarding the pain contract was recorded and while five were positive or neutral, 15 patients recorded negative attitudes toward the process, the physician, and/or the UDS. This study highlights limited recall and negative patient attitudes toward the pain contract. Considering the public health concerns with regard to the current opioid epidemic in the United States, additional training of providers, redesign of pain contracts and new models for informing patients about safe chronic pain management may be warranted.

48 CFR 242.771-3 - Responsibilities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

..., DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 242.... (2) Determine whether IR&D/B&P projects performed by major contractors (see 231.205-18(a)) are of... potential interest to DoD. (b) The Defense Contract Management Agency or the military department responsible...

48 CFR 242.771-3 - Responsibilities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

..., DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 242.... (2) Determine whether IR&D/B&P projects performed by major contractors (see 231.205-18(a)) are of... potential interest to DoD. (b) The Defense Contract Management Agency or the military department responsible...

48 CFR 242.771-3 - Responsibilities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

..., DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 242.... (2) Determine whether IR&D/B&P projects performed by major contractors (see 231.205-18(a)) are of... potential interest to DoD. (b) The Defense Contract Management Agency or the military department responsible...

48 CFR 242.771-3 - Responsibilities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

..., DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 242.... (2) Determine whether IR&D/B&P projects performed by major contractors (see 231.205-18(a)) are of... potential interest to DoD. (b) The Defense Contract Management Agency or the military department responsible...

26 CFR 1.817A-0 - Table of contents.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... period. (5) Examples. (c) Applicable interest rates for equity-indexed modified guaranteed contracts... captions that appear in section § 1.817A-1: § 1.817A-1Certain modified guaranteed contracts. (a) Definitions. (1) Modified guaranteed contract. (2) Temporary guarantee period. (3) Equity-indexed modified...

Patient Perception of Disclosure Performance of Informed Consent Elements in the Preanesthesia Interview

DTIC Science & Technology

1997-12-01

Tort Law............................................................................................................................10 Contract Law ......................................................................................................................20... contract law ..............................22 Figure 3. Military status of patients by rate...Two major areas of the law, tort law and contract law , are relevant when a patient does not receive adequate informed consent. This chapter will

Vastus lateralis surface and single motor unit EMG following submaximal shortening and lengthening contractions.

PubMed

Altenburg, Teatske M; de Ruiter, Cornelis J; Verdijk, Peter W L; van Mechelen, Willem; de Haan, Arnold

2008-12-01

A single shortening contraction reduces the force capacity of muscle fibers, whereas force capacity is enhanced following lengthening. However, how motor unit recruitment and discharge rate (muscle activation) are adapted to such changes in force capacity during submaximal contractions remains unknown. Additionally, there is limited evidence for force enhancement in larger muscles. We therefore investigated lengthening- and shortening-induced changes in activation of the knee extensors. We hypothesized that when the same submaximal torque had to be generated following shortening, muscle activation had to be increased, whereas a lower activation would suffice to produce the same torque following lengthening. Muscle activation following shortening and lengthening (20 degrees at 10 degrees /s) was determined using rectified surface electromyography (rsEMG) in a 1st session (at 10% and 50% maximal voluntary contraction (MVC)) and additionally with EMG of 42 vastus lateralis motor units recorded in a 2nd session (at 4%-47%MVC). rsEMG and motor unit discharge rates following shortening and lengthening were normalized to isometric reference contractions. As expected, normalized rsEMG (1.15 +/- 0.19) and discharge rate (1.11 +/- 0.09) were higher following shortening (p < 0.05). Following lengthening, normalized rsEMG (0.91 +/- 0.10) was, as expected, lower than 1.0 (p < 0.05), but normalized discharge rate (0.99 +/- 0.08) was not (p > 0.05). Thus, muscle activation was increased to compensate for a reduced force capacity following shortening by increasing the discharge rate of the active motor units (rate coding). In contrast, following lengthening, rsEMG decreased while the discharge rates of active motor units remained similar, suggesting that derecruitment of units might have occurred.

Behavioral health at-risk contracting--a rate development and financial reporting guide.

PubMed

Zinser, G R

1994-01-01

The process of developing rates for behavioral capitation contracts can seem mysterious and intimidating. The following article explains several key features of the method used to develop capitation rates. These include: (1) a basic understanding of the mechanics of rate calculation; (2) awareness of the variables to be considered and assumptions to be made; (3) a source of information to use as a basis for these assumptions; and (4) a system to collect detailed actual experience data.

The explicit form of the rate function for semi-Markov processes and its contractions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sughiyama, Yuki; Kobayashi, Testuya J.

2018-03-01

We derive the explicit form of the rate function for semi-Markov processes. Here, the ‘random time change trick’ plays an essential role. Also, by exploiting the contraction principle of large deviation theory to the explicit form, we show that the fluctuation theorem (Gallavotti-Cohen symmetry) holds for semi-Markov cases. Furthermore, we elucidate that our rate function is an extension of the level 2.5 rate function for Markov processes to semi-Markov cases.

75 FR 69726 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; International Securities Exchange, LLC; Notice of Filing and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-11-15

... options or other derivatives on any of the foregoing; or (b) interest rate futures or options or... options or other derivatives on any of the foregoing; or (b) interest rate futures or options or... of futures contracts or options or derivatives on futures contracts (``Futures Reference Asset...

78 FR 26093 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; Fixed Income Clearing Corporation; Notice of Filing of Proposed...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-05-03

... Include Options on Interest Rate Futures Contracts With Maturities Not Longer Than Two Years In The One... of the proposed rule change is to include options on interest rate futures contracts with maturities... Futures Trading Commission (``CFTC'') as a derivatives clearing organization (``DCO'') pursuant to Section...

48 CFR 1832.501-1 - Customary progress payment rates. (NASA supplements paragraph (a))

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... (a)) (a) The customary progress payment rate for all NASA contracts is 85 percent for large business, 90 percent for small business, 95 percent for small disadvantaged business, and 100 percent for Phase II contracts in the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer...

Contracting AFSC 651X0, AFPT 90-651-862

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-10-01

CONTRACTING 78 TABLE 30 TECHNICAL TASKS NOT REFERENCED TO STS HIGH IN TRAINING EMPHASIS (TE) RATINGS TE TASKS RATING N1000 PREPARE DD FORMS 1784 5.08 M739 ...requirements with contractors or customers 89 M739 Compare contractor invoices with QAE reports 89 M731 Analyze adequacy of corrective actions to quality

7 CFR 52.47 - Changing types of service.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... Changing types of service. If an applicant cancels a new year-round contract before a full year has elapsed, the applicant shall be charged the difference between the year-round rate and less than year-round rate for the full period the year-round contract was in effect. If an applicant cancels a year-round...

7 CFR 52.47 - Changing types of service.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... Changing types of service. If an applicant cancels a new year-round contract before a full year has elapsed, the applicant shall be charged the difference between the year-round rate and less than year-round rate for the full period the year-round contract was in effect. If an applicant cancels a year-round...

Endurance training facilitates myoglobin desaturation during muscle contraction in rat skeletal muscle

PubMed Central

Takakura, Hisashi; Furuichi, Yasuro; Yamada, Tatsuya; Jue, Thomas; Ojino, Minoru; Hashimoto, Takeshi; Iwase, Satoshi; Hojo, Tatsuya; Izawa, Tetsuya; Masuda, Kazumi

2015-01-01

At onset of muscle contraction, myoglobin (Mb) immediately releases its bound O2 to the mitochondria. Accordingly, intracellular O2 tension (PmbO2) markedly declines in order to increase muscle O2 uptake (mO2). However, whether the change in PmbO2 during muscle contraction modulates mO2 and whether the O2 release rate from Mb increases in endurance-trained muscles remain unclear. The purpose of this study was, therefore, to determine the effect of endurance training on O2 saturation of Mb (SmbO2) and PmbO2 kinetics during muscle contraction. Male Wistar rats were subjected to a 4-week swimming training (Tr group; 6 days per week, 30 min × 4 sets per day) with a weight load of 2% body mass. After the training period, deoxygenated Mb kinetics during muscle contraction were measured using near-infrared spectroscopy under hemoglobin-free medium perfusion. In the Tr group, the mO2peak significantly increased by 32%. Although the PmbO2 during muscle contraction did not affect the increased mO2 in endurance-trained muscle, the O2 release rate from Mb increased because of the increased Mb concentration and faster decremental rate in SmbO2 at the maximal twitch tension. These results suggest that the Mb dynamics during muscle contraction are contributing factors to faster O2 kinetics in endurance-trained muscle. PMID:25801957

29 CFR 5.32 - Overtime payments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... THE CONTRACT WORK HOURS AND SAFETY STANDARDS ACT) Interpretation of the Fringe Benefits Provisions of... Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act, and the Walsh-Healey Public Contracts Act whenever the... computed on a regular or basic rate of $3.00 an hour. However, in some cases a question of fact may be...

29 CFR 5.32 - Overtime payments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... THE CONTRACT WORK HOURS AND SAFETY STANDARDS ACT) Interpretation of the Fringe Benefits Provisions of... Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act, and the Walsh-Healey Public Contracts Act whenever the... computed on a regular or basic rate of $3.00 an hour. However, in some cases a question of fact may be...

23 CFR 635.127 - Agreement provisions regarding overruns in contract time.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... ENGINEERING AND TRAFFIC OPERATIONS CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE Contract Procedures § 635.127 Agreement... types. These rates shall, as a minimum, be established to cover the estimated average daily construction... proportional share, as used in this section, is the ratio of the final contract construction costs eligible for...

23 CFR 635.127 - Agreement provisions regarding overruns in contract time.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... ENGINEERING AND TRAFFIC OPERATIONS CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE Contract Procedures § 635.127 Agreement... types. These rates shall, as a minimum, be established to cover the estimated average daily construction... proportional share, as used in this section, is the ratio of the final contract construction costs eligible for...

23 CFR 635.127 - Agreement provisions regarding overruns in contract time.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... ENGINEERING AND TRAFFIC OPERATIONS CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE Contract Procedures § 635.127 Agreement... types. These rates shall, as a minimum, be established to cover the estimated average daily construction... proportional share, as used in this section, is the ratio of the final contract construction costs eligible for...

23 CFR 635.127 - Agreement provisions regarding overruns in contract time.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... ENGINEERING AND TRAFFIC OPERATIONS CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE Contract Procedures § 635.127 Agreement... types. These rates shall, as a minimum, be established to cover the estimated average daily construction... proportional share, as used in this section, is the ratio of the final contract construction costs eligible for...

23 CFR 635.127 - Agreement provisions regarding overruns in contract time.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... ENGINEERING AND TRAFFIC OPERATIONS CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE Contract Procedures § 635.127 Agreement... types. These rates shall, as a minimum, be established to cover the estimated average daily construction... proportional share, as used in this section, is the ratio of the final contract construction costs eligible for...

48 CFR 942.705-5 - Nonprofit organizations other than educational and state and local governments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... Regulations System DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 5 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Nonprofit organizations... approval of indirect cost rates. The Federal agency with the largest dollar value of awards (contracts plus...

Impact of Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plan Star Ratings on Enrollment before and after Implementation of Quality-Related Bonus Payments in 2012

PubMed Central

Li, Pengxiang; Doshi, Jalpa A.

2016-01-01

Objective Since 2007, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services have published 5-star quality rating measures to aid consumers in choosing Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plans (MAPDs). We examined the impact of these star ratings on Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug (MAPD) enrollment before and after 2012, when star ratings became tied to bonus payments for MAPDs that could be used to improve plan benefits and/or reduce premiums in the subsequent year. Methods A longitudinal design and multivariable hybrid models were used to assess whether star ratings had a direct impact on concurrent year MAPD contract enrollment (by influencing beneficiary choice) and/or an indirect impact on subsequent year MAPD contract enrollment (because ratings were linked to bonus payments). The main analysis was based on contract-year level data from 2009–2015. We compared effects of star ratings in the pre-bonus payment period (2009–2011) and post-bonus payment period (2012–2015). Extensive sensitivity analyses varied the analytic techniques, unit of analysis, and sample inclusion criteria. Similar analyses were conducted separately using stand-alone PDP contract-year data; since PDPs were not eligible for bonus payments, they served as an external comparison group. Result The main analysis included 3,866 MAPD contract-years. A change of star rating had no statistically significant effect on concurrent year enrollment in any of the pre-, post-, or pre-post combined periods. On the other hand, star rating increase was associated with a statistically significant increase in the subsequent year enrollment (a 1-star increase associated with +11,337 enrollees, p<0.001) in the post-bonus payment period but had a very small and statistically non-significant effect on subsequent year enrollment in the pre-bonus payment period. Further, the difference in effects on subsequent year enrollment was statistically significant between the pre- and post-periods (p = 0.011). Sensitivity analyses indicated that the findings were robust. No statistically significant effect of star ratings was found on concurrent or subsequent year enrollment in the pre- or post-period in the external comparison group of stand-alone PDP contracts. Conclusion Star ratings had no direct impact on concurrent year MAPD enrollment before or after the introduction of bonus payments tied to star ratings. However, after the introduction of these bonus payments, MAPD star ratings had a significant indirect impact of increasing subsequent year enrollment, likely via the reinvestment of bonuses to provide lower premiums and/or additional member benefits in the following year. PMID:27149092

Impact of Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plan Star Ratings on Enrollment before and after Implementation of Quality-Related Bonus Payments in 2012.

PubMed

Li, Pengxiang; Doshi, Jalpa A

2016-01-01

Since 2007, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services have published 5-star quality rating measures to aid consumers in choosing Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plans (MAPDs). We examined the impact of these star ratings on Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug (MAPD) enrollment before and after 2012, when star ratings became tied to bonus payments for MAPDs that could be used to improve plan benefits and/or reduce premiums in the subsequent year. A longitudinal design and multivariable hybrid models were used to assess whether star ratings had a direct impact on concurrent year MAPD contract enrollment (by influencing beneficiary choice) and/or an indirect impact on subsequent year MAPD contract enrollment (because ratings were linked to bonus payments). The main analysis was based on contract-year level data from 2009-2015. We compared effects of star ratings in the pre-bonus payment period (2009-2011) and post-bonus payment period (2012-2015). Extensive sensitivity analyses varied the analytic techniques, unit of analysis, and sample inclusion criteria. Similar analyses were conducted separately using stand-alone PDP contract-year data; since PDPs were not eligible for bonus payments, they served as an external comparison group. The main analysis included 3,866 MAPD contract-years. A change of star rating had no statistically significant effect on concurrent year enrollment in any of the pre-, post-, or pre-post combined periods. On the other hand, star rating increase was associated with a statistically significant increase in the subsequent year enrollment (a 1-star increase associated with +11,337 enrollees, p<0.001) in the post-bonus payment period but had a very small and statistically non-significant effect on subsequent year enrollment in the pre-bonus payment period. Further, the difference in effects on subsequent year enrollment was statistically significant between the pre- and post-periods (p = 0.011). Sensitivity analyses indicated that the findings were robust. No statistically significant effect of star ratings was found on concurrent or subsequent year enrollment in the pre- or post-period in the external comparison group of stand-alone PDP contracts. Star ratings had no direct impact on concurrent year MAPD enrollment before or after the introduction of bonus payments tied to star ratings. However, after the introduction of these bonus payments, MAPD star ratings had a significant indirect impact of increasing subsequent year enrollment, likely via the reinvestment of bonuses to provide lower premiums and/or additional member benefits in the following year.

41 CFR Appendix B to Chapter 301 - Allocation of M&IE Rates To Be Used in Making Deductions From the M&IE Allowance

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 4 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Allocation of M&IE Rates To Be Used in Making Deductions From the M&IE Allowance B Appendix B to Chapter 301 Public Contracts.... 301, App. B Appendix B to Chapter 301—Allocation of M&IE Rates To Be Used in Making Deductions From...

41 CFR Appendix B to Chapter 301 - Allocation of M&IE Rates To Be Used in Making Deductions From the M&IE Allowance

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 4 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Allocation of M&IE Rates To Be Used in Making Deductions From the M&IE Allowance B Appendix B to Chapter 301 Public Contracts.... 301, App. B Appendix B to Chapter 301—Allocation of M&IE Rates To Be Used in Making Deductions From...

41 CFR Appendix B to Chapter 301 - Allocation of M&IE Rates To Be Used in Making Deductions From the M&IE Allowance

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 4 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Allocation of M&IE Rates To Be Used in Making Deductions From the M&IE Allowance B Appendix B to Chapter 301 Public Contracts.... 301, App. B Appendix B to Chapter 301—Allocation of M&IE Rates To Be Used in Making Deductions From...

41 CFR Appendix B to Chapter 301 - Allocation of M&IE Rates To Be Used in Making Deductions From the M&IE Allowance

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 4 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Allocation of M&IE Rates To Be Used in Making Deductions From the M&IE Allowance B Appendix B to Chapter 301 Public Contracts.... 301, App. B Appendix B to Chapter 301—Allocation of M&IE Rates To Be Used in Making Deductions From...

Committing to coal and gas: Long-term contracts, regulation, and fuel switching in power generation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rice, Michael

Fuel switching in the electricity sector has important economic and environmental consequences. In the United States, the increased supply of gas during the last decade has led to substantial switching in the short term. Fuel switching is constrained, however, by the existing infrastructure. The power generation infrastructure, in turn, represents commitments to specific sources of energy over the long term. This dissertation explores fuel contracts as the link between short-term price response and long-term plant investments. Contracting choices enable power plant investments that are relationship-specific, often regulated, and face uncertainty. Many power plants are subject to both hold-up in investment and cost-of-service regulation. I find that capital bias is robust when considering either irreversibility or hold-up due to the uncertain arrival of an outside option. For sunk capital, the rental rate is inappropriate for determining capital bias. Instead, capital bias depends on the regulated rate of return, discount rate, and depreciation schedule. If policies such as emissions regulations increase fuel-switching flexibility, this can lead to capital bias. Cost-of-service regulation can shorten the duration of a long-term contract. From the firm's perspective, the existing literature provides limited guidance when bargaining and writing contracts for fuel procurement. I develop a stochastic programming framework to optimize long-term contracting decisions under both endogenous and exogenous sources of hold-up risk. These typically include policy changes, price shocks, availability of fuel, and volatility in derived demand. For price risks, the optimal contract duration is the moment when the expected benefits of the contract are just outweighed by the expected opportunity costs of remaining in the contract. I prove that imposing early renegotiation costs decreases contract duration. Finally, I provide an empirical approach to show how coal contracts can limit short-term fuel switching in power production. During the era prior to shale gas and electricity market deregulation, I do not find evidence that gas generation substituted for coal in response to fuel price changes. However, I do find evidence that coal plant operations are constrained by fuel contracts. As the min-take commitment to coal increases, changes to annual coal plant output decrease. My conclusions are robust in spite of bias due to the selective reporting of proprietary coal delivery contracts by utilities.

Ca2+-pumping impairment during repetitive fatiguing contractions in single myofibers: role of cross-bridge cycling

PubMed Central

Shiah, Amy A.; Gandra, Paulo G.; Hogan, Michael C.

2013-01-01

The energy cost of contractions in skeletal muscle involves activation of both actomyosin and sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+-pump (SERCA) ATPases, which together determine the overall ATP demand. During repetitive contractions leading to fatigue, the relaxation rate and Ca2+ pumping become slowed, possibly because of intracellular metabolite accumulation. The role of the energy cost of cross-bridge cycling during contractile activity on Ca2+-pumping properties has not been investigated. Therefore, we inhibited cross-bridge cycling by incubating isolated Xenopus single fibers with N-benzyl-p-toluene sulfonamide (BTS) to study the mechanisms by which SR Ca2+ pumping is impaired during fatiguing contractions. Fibers were stimulated in the absence (control) and presence of BTS and cytosolic calcium ([Ca2+]c) transients or intracellular pH (pHi) changes were measured. BTS treatment allowed normal [Ca2+]c transients during stimulation without cross-bridge activation. At the time point that tension was reduced to 50% in the control condition, the fall in the peak [Ca2+]c and the increase in basal [Ca2+]c did not occur with BTS incubation. The progressively slower Ca2+ pumping rate and the fall in pHi during repetitive contractions were reduced during BTS conditions. However, when mitochondrial ATP supply was blocked during contractions with BTS present (BTS + cyanide), there was no further slowing in SR Ca2+ pumping during contractions compared with the BTS-alone condition. Furthermore, the fall in pHi was significantly less during the BTS + cyanide condition than in the control conditions. These results demonstrate that factors related to the energetic cost of cross-bridge cycling, possibly the accumulation of metabolites, inhibit the Ca2+ pumping rate during fatiguing contractions. PMID:23678027

48 CFR 1631.205-10 - Cost of money.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... EMPLOYEES HEALTH BENEFITS ACQUISITION REGULATION GENERAL CONTRACTING REQUIREMENTS CONTRACT COST PRINCIPLES... is identified in the prior year's Annual Accounting Statement or, for new experience-rated carriers...

Effect of 3-substituted 1,4-benzodiazepin-2-ones on bradykinin-induced smooth muscle contraction.

PubMed

Virych, P A; Shelyuk, O V; Kabanova, T A; Khalimova, E I; Martynyuk, V S; Pavlovsky, V I; Andronati, S A

2017-01-01

Biochemical properties of 3-substituted 1,4-benzodiazepine determined by the characteristics of their chemical structure. Influence of 3-substituted 1,4-benzodiazepin-2-ones on maximal normalized rate and amplitudes of isometric smooth muscle contraction in rats was investigated. Compounds MX-1775 and MX-1828 demonstrated the similar inhibition effect on bradykinin-induced contraction of smooth muscle like competitive inhibitor des-arg9-bradykinin-acetate to bradykinin B2-receptors. MX-1626 demonstrated unidirectional changes of maximal normalized rate and force of smooth muscle that proportionally depended on bradykinin concentration in the range 10-10-10-6 M. MX-1828 has statistically significant decrease of normalized rate of smooth muscle contraction for bradykinin concentrations 10-10 and 10-9 M by 20.7 and 8.6%, respectively, but for agonist concentration 10-6 M, this parameter increased by 10.7% and amplitude was reduced by 29.5%. Compounds MX-2011, MX-1785 and MX-2004 showed no natural effect on bradykinin-induced smooth muscle contraction. Compounds MX-1775, MX-1828, MX-1626 were selected for further research of their influence on kinin-kallikrein system and pain perception.

7 CFR 52.47 - Changing types of service.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... Certification Fees and Charges § 52.47 Changing types of service. If an applicant cancels a new year-round...-round rate and less than year-round rate for the full period the year-round contract was in effect. If an applicant cancels a year-round contract after a full year or more of uninterrupted service, the...

7 CFR 52.47 - Changing types of service.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... Certification Fees and Charges § 52.47 Changing types of service. If an applicant cancels a new year-round...-round rate and less than year-round rate for the full period the year-round contract was in effect. If an applicant cancels a year-round contract after a full year or more of uninterrupted service, the...

Standby power generation under utility curtailment contract agreements

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

Nolan, G.J.; Puccio, V.J.; Calhoun, C.W.

1995-12-31

Many utilities in the US offer large industrial and commercial customers power sales contracts which have attractive rates under a curtailment requirement. This curtailment requirement allows the utility to require the customer to reduce its power demand to a predetermined level within a specific time period. If the required curtailment is not achieved by the customer within the allocated time period, stiff financial penalties are usually enforced by the utility. The attractiveness of the contract rates usually is proportional to the amount of curtailment required. To take advantage of these attractive rates, a customer must be able to withstand themore » curtailment without supplemental generation or must add standby generation to meet its needs. Obviously, the cost of the curtailments to the customer should not exceed the economic benefits of reduced rates. This paper reviews the alternatives faced by a curtailment contract customer together with potential load shedding and standby generation system designs. An example of implementing a curtailment contract at an existing industrial facility is presented. The example facility, Boeing Helicopters of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania required both load shedding and standby generation. The load shedding scheme is fairly complex and is controlled by a programmable logic controller (PLC). The standby generation and load shedding systems for the example facility are examined in detail. Also, lessons learned from implementing the required modifications to the example facility are discussed.« less

Is there an association between subclinical hypothyroidism and preterm uterine contractions? A prospective observational study.

PubMed

Nassie, Daniel I; Ashwal, Eran; Raban, Oded; Ben-Haroush, Avi; Wiznitzer, Arnon; Yogev, Yariv; Aviram, Amir

2017-04-01

To investigate the association between subclinical hypothyroidism and preterm contractions. Prospective observational study among women at 23 + 0/7 and 34 + 6/7 weeks of gestation, with no known thyroid function abnormality, and preterm uterine contractions (PTC). All patients underwent laboratory evaluation of Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) and Free Thyroxin (FT4). Patients with and without PTC were compared. No association was found between PTC and subclinical hypothyroidism. Rate of spontaneous preterm delivery (PTD) was comparable between women with abnormal and normal thyroid function tests. Excluding indicated PTD, patients in the study group had a higher rate of spontaneous PTD (24.7% versus 9.6%, p = 0.03). Patients with past PTD and preterm contractions had higher rates of hypothyroxinemia compared with patients without past PTD (54.6% versus 19.0% and 31.2%, p = 0.001), and patients with past PTD (regardless of the presence or absence of PTC) had higher rate of subclinical hypothyroidism compared with patients with PTC and without PTD (59.1% and 66.7% versus 31.6%, p = 0.017). No association was found between PTC and subclinical hypothyroidism in the entire cohort, except for patients with preterm contractions and a history of past PTD. This specific group of patients might benefit from thyroid function evaluation.

48 CFR 32.604 - Demand for payment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... provided in Section 611 of the Contract Disputes Act of 1978 (Public Law 95-563), which is applicable to the period in which the amount becomes due, and then at the rate applicable for each six-month period..., the contracting officer should not issue a demand for payment if the contracting officer only becomes...

48 CFR 32.604 - Demand for payment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... provided in Section 611 of the Contract Disputes Act of 1978 (Public Law 95-563), which is applicable to the period in which the amount becomes due, and then at the rate applicable for each six-month period..., the contracting officer should not issue a demand for payment if the contracting officer only becomes...

48 CFR 32.604 - Demand for payment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... provided in Section 611 of the Contract Disputes Act of 1978 (Public Law 95-563), which is applicable to the period in which the amount becomes due, and then at the rate applicable for each six-month period..., the contracting officer should not issue a demand for payment if the contracting officer only becomes...

ELECTRON-CAPTURE AND β-DECAY RATES FOR sd-SHELL NUCLEI IN STELLAR ENVIRONMENTS RELEVANT TO HIGH-DENSITY O–NE–MG CORES

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

Suzuki, Toshio; Toki, Hiroshi; Nomoto, Ken’ichi, E-mail: suzuki@phys.chs.nihon-u.ac.jp

Electron-capture and β-decay rates for nuclear pairs in the sd-shell are evaluated at high densities and high temperatures relevant to the final evolution of electron-degenerate O–Ne–Mg cores of stars with initial masses of 8–10 M{sub ⊙}. Electron capture induces a rapid contraction of the electron-degenerate O–Ne–Mg core. The outcome of rapid contraction depends on the evolutionary changes in the central density and temperature, which are determined by the competing processes of contraction, cooling, and heating. The fate of the stars is determined by these competitions, whether they end up with electron-capture supernovae or Fe core-collapse supernovae. Since the competing processes aremore » induced by electron capture and β-decay, the accurate weak rates are crucially important. The rates are obtained for pairs with A = 20, 23, 24, 25, and 27 by shell-model calculations in the sd-shell with the USDB Hamiltonian. Effects of Coulomb corrections on the rates are evaluated. The rates for pairs with A = 23 and 25 are important for nuclear Urca processes that determine the cooling rate of the O–Ne–Mg core, while those for pairs with A = 20 and 24 are important for the core contraction and heat generation rates in the core. We provide these nuclear rates at stellar environments in tables with fine enough meshes at various densities and temperatures for studies of astrophysical processes sensitive to the rates. In particular, the accurate rate tables are crucially important for the final fates of not only O–Ne–Mg cores but also a wider range of stars, such as C–O cores of lower-mass stars.« less

Avoiding revenue loss due to 'lesser of' contract clauses.

PubMed

Stodolak, Frederick; Gutierrez, Henry

2014-08-01

Finance managers seeking to avoid lost revenue attributable to lesser-of-charge-or-fixed-fee (lesser-of) clauses in their contracts should: Identify payer contracts that contain lesser-of clauses. Prepare lesser-of lost-revenue reports for non-bundled and bundled rates. For claims with covered charges below the bundled rate, identify service codes associated with the greatest proportion of total gross revenue and determine new, higher charge levels for those codes. Establish an approach for setting charges for non-bundled fee schedules to address lost-revenue-related issues. Incorporate changes into overall strategic or hospital zero-based pricing modeling and parameters.

48 CFR 1515.305-70 - Scoring plans.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... METHODS AND CONTRACT TYPES CONTRACTING BY NEGOTIATION Source Selection 1515.305-70 Scoring plans. When... solicitation, e.g., other numeric, adjectival, color rating systems, etc. Scoring Plan Value Descriptive...

Does bargaining affect Medicare prescription drug plan reimbursements to independent pharmacies?

PubMed

Tang, Yuexin; Xie, Yang; Urmie, Julie M; Doucette, William R

2011-01-01

To examine how pharmacy bargaining activities affect reimbursement rates in Medicare Part D prescription drug plan (PDP) contracts, controlling for pharmacy quality attributes, market structures, and area socioeconomic status. Cross-sectional study. Six Medicare regions throughout the United States between October and December 2009. Random sample of 1,650 independent pharmacies; 321 returned surveys containing sufficient responses for analysis. Pharmacies were surveyed regarding PDP reimbursement rates, costs, and cash prices of two popular prescription drugs (atorvastatin calcium [Lipitor-Pfizer] and lisinopril, 1-month supply of a common strength), as well as pharmacy bargaining activities and quality attributes. Data also were used from the National Council for Prescription Drug Programs pharmacy database, the 2000 U. S. Census, and the 2006 Economic Census on local market structures and area socio-economic status. PDP reimbursement rates. For the brand-name drug atorvastatin calcium, the PDP reimbursement was positively related to a pharmacy's request for a contract change (β = 0.887, P < 0.05), whereas other bargaining activities were not significantly related to PDP reimbursement. However, for the generic drug lisinopril, no bargaining activities were found to be significantly related to the PDP reimbursement. Pharmacy request for a contract change was associated with higher reimbursement rates for the brand-name drug atorvastatin calcium in PDP contracts, after controlling for pharmacy quality attributes, local market structures, and area socioeconomic status; this finding likely applies to other brand-name drugs because of the structure of the contracts. Our results suggest that independent pharmacies are more likely to acquire higher reimbursement rates by engaging in active bargaining with third-party payers.

Utilizing Physiological Principles of Motor Unit Recruitment to Reduce Fatigability of Electrically-Evoked Contractions: A Narrative Review.

PubMed

Barss, Trevor S; Ainsley, Emily N; Claveria-Gonzalez, Francisca C; Luu, M John; Miller, Dylan J; Wiest, Matheus J; Collins, David F

2018-04-01

Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) is used to produce contractions to restore movement and reduce secondary complications for individuals experiencing motor impairment. NMES is conventionally delivered through a single pair of electrodes over a muscle belly or nerve trunk using short pulse durations and frequencies between 20 and 40Hz (conventional NMES). Unfortunately, the benefits and widespread use of conventional NMES are limited by contraction fatigability, which is in large part because of the nonphysiological way that contractions are generated. This review provides a summary of approaches designed to reduce fatigability during NMES, by using physiological principles that help minimize fatigability of voluntary contractions. First, relevant principles of the recruitment and discharge of motor units (MUs) inherent to voluntary contractions and conventional NMES are introduced, and the main mechanisms of fatigability for each contraction type are briefly discussed. A variety of NMES approaches are then described that were designed to reduce fatigability by generating contractions that more closely mimic voluntary contractions. These approaches include altering stimulation parameters, to recruit MUs in their physiological order, and stimulating through multiple electrodes, to reduce MU discharge rates. Although each approach has unique advantages and disadvantages, approaches that minimize MU discharge rates hold the most promise for imminent translation into rehabilitation practice. The way that NMES is currently delivered limits its utility as a rehabilitative tool. Reducing fatigability by delivering NMES in ways that better mimic voluntary contractions holds promise for optimizing the benefits and widespread use of NMES-based programs. Copyright © 2017 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

48 CFR 52.222-43 - Fair Labor Standards Act and Service Contract Act-Price Adjustment (Multiple Year and Option...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... rates, or fixed hourly labor rates will be adjusted to reflect the Contractor's actual increase or... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 2 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Fair Labor Standards Act... FORMS SOLICITATION PROVISIONS AND CONTRACT CLAUSES Text of Provisions and Clauses 52.222-43 Fair Labor...

Motor Unit Activity during Fatiguing Isometric Muscle Contraction in Hemispheric Stroke Survivors

PubMed Central

McManus, Lara; Hu, Xiaogang; Rymer, William Z.; Suresh, Nina L.; Lowery, Madeleine M.

2017-01-01

Enhanced muscle weakness is commonly experienced following stroke and may be accompanied by increased susceptibility to fatigue. To examine the contributions of central and peripheral factors to isometric muscle fatigue in stroke survivors, this study investigates changes in motor unit (MU) mean firing rate, and action potential duration during, and directly following, a sustained submaximal fatiguing contraction at 30% maximum voluntary contraction (MVC). A series of short contractions of the first dorsal interosseous muscle were performed pre- and post-fatigue at 20% MVC, and again following a 10-min recovery period, by 12 chronic stroke survivors. Individual MU firing times were extracted using surface EMG decomposition and used to obtain the spike-triggered average MU action potential waveforms. During the sustained fatiguing contraction, the mean rate of change in firing rate across all detected MUs was greater on the affected side (-0.02 ± 0.03 Hz/s) than on the less-affected side (-0.004 ± 0.003 Hz/s, p = 0.045). The change in firing rate immediately post-fatigue was also greater on the affected side than less-affected side (-13.5 ± 20 and 0.1 ± 19%, p = 0.04). Mean MU firing rates increased following the recovery period on the less-affected side when compared to the affected side (19.3 ± 17 and 0.5 ± 20%, respectively, p = 0.03). MU action potential duration increased post-fatigue on both sides (10.3 ± 1.2 to 11.2 ± 1.3 ms on the affected side and 9.9 ± 1.7 to 11.2 ± 1.9 ms on the less-affected side, p = 0.001 and p = 0.02, respectively), and changes in action potential duration tended to be smaller in subjects with greater impairment (p = 0.04). This study presents evidence of both central and peripheral fatigue at the MU level during isometric fatiguing contraction for the first time in stroke survivors. Together, these preliminary observations indicate that the response to an isometric fatiguing contraction differs between the affected and less-affected side post-stroke, and may suggest that central mechanisms observed here as changes in firing rate are the dominant processes leading to task failure on the affected side. PMID:29225574

2 CFR Appendix A to Part 215 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

..., contractors shall be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages... construction contracts and in excess of $2500 for other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or... mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work...

34 CFR Appendix A to Part 74 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... shall be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages... construction contracts and in excess of $2500 for other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or... mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work...

7 CFR Appendix A to Part 3019 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

..., contractors shall be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages... construction contracts and in excess of $2500 for other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or... mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work...

36 CFR Appendix A to Part 1210 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... shall be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages... construction contracts and in excess of $2,500 for other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or... mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work...

36 CFR Appendix A to Part 1210 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... shall be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages... construction contracts and in excess of $2,500 for other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or... mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work...

34 CFR Appendix A to Part 74 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... shall be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages... construction contracts and in excess of $2500 for other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or... mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work...

34 CFR Appendix A to Part 74 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... shall be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages... construction contracts and in excess of $2500 for other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or... mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work...

7 CFR Appendix A to Part 3019 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

..., contractors shall be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages... construction contracts and in excess of $2500 for other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or... mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work...

2 CFR Appendix A to Part 215 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

..., contractors shall be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages... construction contracts and in excess of $2500 for other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or... mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work...

7 CFR Appendix A to Part 3019 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

..., contractors shall be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages... construction contracts and in excess of $2500 for other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or... mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work...

After the Fall: Educational Contracting in the USA and the Global Financial Crisis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Burch, Patricia

2010-01-01

Key legislative objectives for the US Federal educational policy over the past several decades relied heavily on quasi-market strategies (such as school rating, school closure, the contracting out of schools) as central levers in "reforming" public schools. Using financial data on 11 national for-profit firms contracting with schools and…

How are tonic and phasic cardiovascular changes related to central motor command?

PubMed

Jennings, J R; van der Molen, M W; Brock, K; Somsen, R J

1993-07-01

We examined the influence of central motor command on heart rate, respiration, and peripheral vascular activity. Central command was enhanced or reduced using tendon vibration. Muscle tension was held constant permitting the examination of variation in central command. Experiment 1 demonstrated in 13 college-aged males an enhancement of heart rate and vascular responses to an isometric, extensor contraction when vibration of the flexor tendon was added. Experiment 2 asked whether changes in central command interacted with phasic cardiovascular changes such as stimulus-linked anticipatory cardiac deceleration. Twenty college-aged males performed either an isometric flexor or extensor contraction with or without flexor tendon vibration. As expected, vibration enhanced cardiovascular change with extensor contraction more than with flexor contraction. Relative to control contractions, however, the flexor change was not an absolute decrease in cardiovascular change. More importantly, tendon vibration failed to alter phasic cardiovascular changes. Force and central commands for force induce cardiovascular change, but this change seems independent of phasic changes induced by the anticipation and processing of environmental stimuli.

77 FR 70850 - International Mail Contract

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-11-27

... Service filing concerning a Type 2 rate adjustment in conjunction with a mail contract with the postal... adjustment in conjunction with a new negotiated service agreement.\\1\\ The Notice concerns the inbound portion...

Activated Monocytes Enhance Platelet-Driven Contraction of Blood Clots via Tissue Factor Expression.

PubMed

Peshkova, Alina D; Le Minh, Giang; Tutwiler, Valerie; Andrianova, Izabella A; Weisel, John W; Litvinov, Rustem I

2017-07-11

Platelet-driven reduction in blood clot volume (clot contraction or retraction) has been implicated to play a role in hemostasis and thrombosis. Although these processes are often linked with inflammation, the role of inflammatory cells in contraction of blood clots and thrombi has not been investigated. The aim of this work was to study the influence of activated monocytes on clot contraction. The effects of monocytes were evaluated using a quantitative optical tracking methodology to follow volume changes in a blood clot formed in vitro. When a physiologically relevant number of isolated human monocytes pre-activated with phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) were added back into whole blood, the extent and rate of clot contraction were increased compared to addition of non-activated cells. Inhibition of tissue factor expression or its inactivation on the surface of PMA-treated monocytes reduced the extent and rate of clot contraction back to control levels with non-activated monocytes. On the contrary, addition of tissue factor enhanced clot contraction, mimicking the effects of tissue factor expressed on the activated monocytes. These data suggest that the inflammatory cells through their expression of tissue factor can directly affect hemostasis and thrombosis by modulating the size and density of intra- and extravascular clots and thrombi.

Role of innate immunity and altered intestinal motility in LPS- and MnCl2-induced intestinal intussusception in mice

PubMed Central

Killoran, Kristin E.; Miller, Amber D.; Uray, Karen S.; Weisbrodt, Norman W.; Pautler, Robia G.; Goyert, Sanna M.; van Rooijen, Nico

2014-01-01

Intestinal intussusception (ISS) commonly causes intestinal obstruction in children. One mechanism that has been proposed to cause ISS is inflammation-induced alteration of intestinal motility. We investigated whether innate inflammatory factors or altered motility is required for induction of ISS by LPS. We compared rates of ISS among BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice, mice lacking lymphocytes or depleted of phagocytes, or mice with defects in the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling pathway following administration of LPS or the Ca2+ analog MnCl2. At 6 or 2 h after administration of LPS or MnCl2, respectively, mice underwent image analysis to assess intestinal contraction rate or laparotomy to identify ISS. LPS-induced ISS (LPS-ISS) was observed in BALB/c mice, but not in C57BL/6 mice or any BALB/c mice with disruptions of TLR4 signaling. LPS-induced serum TNF-α, IL-6, and nitric oxide (NO) and intestinal NO levels were similar in BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice. The rate of LPS-ISS was significantly reduced in phagocyte-depleted, but not lymphocyte-deficient, mice. Intestinal contraction rates were reduced in LPS-ISS-susceptible BALB/c mice, but not in LPS-ISS-resistant C57BL/6 or TLR4 mutant mice, suggesting a role for reduced intestinal contraction rate in LPS-ISS susceptibility. This was tested with MnCl2, a Ca2+ antagonist that reduced intestinal contraction rates and induced ISS, irrespective of mouse strain. Therefore, LPS-ISS is initiated by innate immune signaling that requires TLR4 and phagocytes but may be independent of TNF-α, IL-6, and NO levels. Furthermore, alteration of intestinal motility, specifically, reduced intestinal contraction rate, is a key factor in the development of ISS. PMID:24407593

Defense Department Profit and Contract Finance Policies and Their Effects on Contract and Contractor Performance

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-02-01

cost of capital ( WACC ). WACC is the cost of debt plus the cost of equity both weighted by the market values debt and equity, respectively. The cost...Beta WACC Technical Risk CPFF/CPAF …. FFP/ MYP - Contract Choice (FAR 16.1) Margin – (p = f(NBV, n, α, risk)) Payments (α) FCOM ( = f(NBV, Treasury...projections, layers on the profit and contract financing policy, estimates the levered WACC as the discount rate, and finally calculates the NPV of the

Modulation of cardiomyocyte activity using pulsed laser irradiated gold nanoparticles

PubMed Central

Gentemann, Lara; Kalies, Stefan; Coffee, Michelle; Meyer, Heiko; Ripken, Tammo; Heisterkamp, Alexander; Zweigerdt, Robert; Heinemann, Dag

2016-01-01

Can photothermal gold nanoparticle mediated laser manipulation be applied to induce cardiac contraction? Based on our previous work, we present a novel concept of cell stimulation. A 532 nm picosecond laser was employed to heat gold nanoparticles on cardiomyocytes. This leads to calcium oscillations in the HL-1 cardiomyocyte cell line. As calcium is connected to the contractility, we aimed to alter the contraction rate of native and stem cell derived cardiomyocytes. A contraction rate increase was particularly observed in calcium containing buffer with neonatal rat cardiomyocytes. Consequently, the study provides conceptual ideas for a light based, nanoparticle mediated stimulation system. PMID:28101410

48 CFR 52.222-4 - Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act-Overtime Compensation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... work over 40 hours in any workweek unless they are paid at least 1 and 1/2 times the basic rate of pay... excess of the standard workweek of 40 hours without paying overtime wages required by the Contract Work... CLAUSES Text of Provisions and Clauses 52.222-4 Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act—Overtime...

48 CFR 22.403-3 - Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... workweek unless paid for all additional hours at not less than 11/2 times the basic rate of pay (see 22.301... Standards for Contracts Involving Construction 22.403-3 Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act. The... 22.305) contain a clause (see 52.222-4) specifying that no laborer or mechanic doing any part of the...

41 CFR Appendix A to Part 105 - 72-Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages specified in a... construction contracts and in excess of $2500 for other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or... mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work...

49 CFR Appendix A to Part 19 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

..., contractors shall be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages... construction contracts and in excess of $2,500 for other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or... mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work...

41 CFR Appendix A to Part 105 - 72-Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages specified in a... construction contracts and in excess of $2500 for other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or... mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work...

10 CFR Appendix A to Subpart B of... - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

..., contractors shall be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages... construction contracts and in excess of $2500 for other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or... mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work...

10 CFR Appendix A to Subpart B of... - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

..., contractors shall be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages... construction contracts and in excess of $2500 for other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or... mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work...

41 CFR Appendix A to Part 105 - 72-Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages specified in a... construction contracts and in excess of $2500 for other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or... mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work...

49 CFR Appendix A to Part 19 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

..., contractors shall be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages... construction contracts and in excess of $2,500 for other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or... mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work...

49 CFR Appendix A to Part 19 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

..., contractors shall be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages... construction contracts and in excess of $2,500 for other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or... mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work...

22 CFR Appendix A to Part 518 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

..., contractors shall be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages... construction contracts and in excess of $2,500 for other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or... mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work...

10 CFR Appendix A to Subpart B of... - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

..., contractors shall be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages... construction contracts and in excess of $2500 for other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or... mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work...

76 FR 31384 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; Notice of Filing and Immediate Effectiveness of Proposed Rule...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-05-31

... participate for that calendar month. The Exchange pays a per- contract MAP Subsidy to any Exchange member... Provider Subsidy is a per contract fee payable by the Exchange to Eligible Market Access Providers \\3\\ for... currently pays a monthly subsidy of $0.10 (the ``Subsidy Rate'') to Eligible MAPs for each Eligible Contract...

Federal employees health benefits program; revision of contract cost principles and procedures, and miscellaneous changes. Final rule.

PubMed

2005-06-01

The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is issuing a final regulation amending the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Acquisition Regulation (FEHBAR). This regulation provides additional contract cost principles and procedures for FEHB Program experience-rated contracts and is intended to clarify our requirements and enhance our oversight of FEHB carriers.

Impedance Alterations in Healthy and Diseased Mice During Electrically Induced Muscle Contraction.

PubMed

Sanchez, Benjamin; Li, Jia; Geisbush, Tom; Bardia, Ramon Bragos; Rutkove, Seward B

2016-08-01

Alterations in the health of muscles can be evaluated through the use of electrical impedance myography (EIM). To date, however, nearly all work in this field has relied upon the measurement of muscle at rest. To provide an insight into the contractile mechanisms of healthy and disease muscle, we evaluated the alterations in the spectroscopic impedance behavior of muscle during the active process of muscle contraction. The gastrocnemii from a total of 13 mice were studied (five wild type, four muscular dystrophy animals, and four amyotrophic lateral sclerosis animals). Muscle contraction was induced via monophasic current pulse stimulation of the sciatic nerve. Simultaneously, multisine EIM (1 kHz to 1 MHz) and force measurements of the muscle were performed. Stimulation was applied at three different rates to produce mild, moderate, and strong contractions. We identified changes in both single and multifrequency data, as assessed by the Cole impedance model parameters. The processes of contraction and relaxation were clearly identified in the impedance spectra and quantified via derivative plots. Reductions in the center frequency fc were observed during the contraction consistent with the increasing muscle fiber diameter. Different EIM stimulation rate-dependencies were also detected across the three groups of animals.

[Evaluation of occupational medicine service tasks in the context of the Occupational Medicine Service Act, article 12, on the basis of statistical indicators in the Pomorskie voivodship].

PubMed

Parszuto, Jacek; Jaremin, Bogdan; Tukalska-Parszuto, Maria

2009-01-01

Occupational health service is based on legal regulations. We have made an attempt to estimate the implementation of the tasks resulting from article 12 of the Occupational Medicine Service Act introduced in 1998. In this paper we analyzed statistical data concerning the number of prophylactic health contracts, economic entities and health insurance payers. The data come from the Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Central Statistical Office and Social Insurance Institution. Contract Coverage Rate (CCR) has been introduced for the purpose of this research. The data show that in 2007, the Contract Coverage Rate (CCR) for the Pomorskie voivodeship (province) accounted for 45.7%, with the median value of 14.4% for all voivodeships in Poland. According to the gathered statistical data, it should be concluded that the implementation of article 12 is insufficient. The amendment to the Act introducing the provision on written contracts is an opportunity to provide an effective mechanism, by which the present situation can be improved and the rates raised to a satisfactory level.

Cost Avoidance vs. Utility Bill Accounting - Explaining theDiscrepancy Between Guaranteed Savings in ESPC Projects and UtilityBills

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

Kumar, S.; Sartor, D.

2005-08-15

Federal agencies often ask if Energy Savings PerformanceContracts (ESPCs) result in the energy and cost savings projected duringthe project development phase. After investing in ESPCs, federal agenciesexpect a reduction in the total energy use and energy cost at the agencylevel. Such questions about the program are common when implementing anESPC project. But is this a fair or accurate perception? Moreimportantly, should the federal agencies evaluate the success or failureof ESPCs by comparing the utility costs before and after projectimplementation?In fact, ESPC contracts employ measurement andverification (M&V) protocols to measure and ensure kilowatt-hour orBTU savings at the project level. In mostmore » cases, the translation toenergy cost savings is not based on actual utility rate structure, but acontracted utility rate that takes the existing utility rate at the timethe contract is signed with a clause to escalate the utility rate by afixed percentage for the duration of the contract. Reporting mechanisms,which advertise these savings in dollars, may imply an impact to budgetsat a much higher level depending on actual utility rate structure. FEMPhas prepared the following analysis to explain why the utility billreduction may not materialize, demonstrate its larger implication onagency s energy reduction goals, and advocate setting the rightexpectations at the outset to preempt the often asked question why I amnot seeing the savings in my utility bill?« less

Discharge properties of abductor hallucis before, during, and after an isometric fatigue task.

PubMed

Kelly, Luke A; Racinais, Sebastien; Cresswell, Andrew G

2013-08-01

Abductor hallucis is the largest muscle in the arch of the human foot and comprises few motor units relative to its physiological cross-sectional area. It has been described as a postural muscle, aiding in the stabilization of the longitudinal arch during stance and gait. The purpose of this study was to describe the discharge properties of abductor hallucis motor units during ramp and hold isometric contractions, as well as its discharge characteristics during fatigue. Intramuscular electromyographic recordings from abductor hallucis were made in 5 subjects; from those recordings, 42 single motor units were decomposed. Data were recorded during isometric ramp contractions at 60% maximum voluntary contraction (MVC), performed before and after a submaximal isometric contraction to failure (mean force 41.3 ± 15.3% MVC, mean duration 233 ± 116 s). Motor unit recruitment thresholds ranged from 10.3 to 54.2% MVC. No significant difference was observed between recruitment and derecruitment thresholds or their respective discharge rates for both the initial and postfatigue ramp contractions (all P > 0.25). Recruitment threshold was positively correlated with recruitment discharge rate (r = 0.47, P < 0.03). All motor units attained similar peak discharge rates (14.0 ± 0.25 pulses/s) and were not correlated with recruitment threshold. Thirteen motor units could be followed during the isometric fatigue task, with a decline in discharge rate and increase in discharge rate variability occurring in the final 25% of the task (both P < 0.05). We have shown that abductor hallucis motor units discharge relatively slowly and are considerably resistant to fatigue. These characteristics may be effective for generating and sustaining the substantial level of force that is required to stabilize the longitudinal arch during weight bearing.

Energy demand and supply in human skeletal muscle.

PubMed

Barclay, C J

2017-04-01

The energy required for muscle contraction is provided by the breakdown of ATP but the amount of ATP in muscles cells is sufficient to power only a short duration of contraction. Buffering of ATP by phosphocreatine, a reaction catalysed by creatine kinase, extends the duration of activity possible but sustained activity depends on continual regeneration of PCr. This is achieved using ATP generated by oxidative processes and, during intense activity, by anaerobic glycolysis. The rate of ATP breakdown ranges from 70 to 140 mM min -1 during isometric contractions of various intensity to as much as 400 mM min -1 during intense, dynamic activity. The maximum rate of oxidative energy supply in untrained people is ~50 mM min -1 which, if the contraction duty cycle is 0.5 as is often the case in cyclic activity, is sufficient to match an ATP breakdown rate during contraction of 100 mM min -1 . During brief, intense activity the rate of ATP turnover can exceed the rates of PCr regeneration by combined oxidative and glycolytic energy supply, resulting in a net decrease in PCr concentration. Glycolysis has the capacity to produce between 30 and 50 mM of ATP so that, for example, anaerobic glycolysis could provide ATP at an average of 100 mM min -1 over 30 s of exhausting activity. The creatine kinase reaction plays an important role not only in buffering ATP but also in communicating energy demand from sites of ATP breakdown to the mitochondria. In that role, creatine kinases acts to slow and attenuate the response of mitochondria to changes in energy demand.

26 CFR 1.1471-5 - Definitions applicable to section 1471.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... contract cannot exceed the aggregate premiums paid for the contract, less the sum of mortality, morbidity... actuarial valuation method, and (2) The mortality tables and interest rate(s)— (i) Prescribed pursuant to...

48 CFR 42.603 - Responsibilities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

...) Fully utilize the responsible contract audit agency financial and advisory accounting services... cost rates for cost-reimbursement contracts, (2) establishment of advance agreements or recommendations on corporate/home office expense allocations, and (3) administration of Cost Accounting Standards...

Isometric and dynamic strength and neuromuscular attributes as predictors of vertical jump performance in 11- to 13-year-old male athletes.

PubMed

McKinlay, Brandon John; Wallace, Phillip J; Dotan, Raffy; Long, Devon; Tokuno, Craig; Gabriel, David A; Falk, Bareket

2017-09-01

In explosive contractions, neural activation is a major factor in determining the rate of torque development, while the latter is an important determinant of jump performance. However, the contribution of neuromuscular activation and rate of torque development to jump performance in children and youth is unclear. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between the rate of neuromuscular activation, peak torque, rate of torque development, and jump performance in young male athletes. Forty-one 12.5 ± 0.5-year-old male soccer players completed explosive, unilateral isometric and dynamic (240°/s) knee extensions (Biodex System III), as well as countermovement-, squat-, and drop-jumps. Peak torque (pT), peak rate of torque development (pRTD), and rate of vastus lateralis activation (Q 30 ) during the isometric and dynamic contractions were examined in relation to attained jump heights. Isometric pT and pRTD were strongly correlated (r = 0.71) but not related to jump performance. Dynamic pT and pRTD, normalized to body mass, were significantly related to jump height in all 3 jumps (r = 0.38-0.66, p < 0.05). Dynamic normalized, but not absolute pRTD, was significantly related to Q 30 (r = 0.35, p < 0.05). In young soccer players, neuromuscular activation and rate of torque development in dynamic contractions are related to jump performance, while isometric contractions are not. These findings have implications in the choice of training and assessment methods for young athletes.

Ca²⁺-pumping impairment during repetitive fatiguing contractions in single myofibers: role of cross-bridge cycling.

PubMed

Nogueira, Leonardo; Shiah, Amy A; Gandra, Paulo G; Hogan, Michael C

2013-07-15

The energy cost of contractions in skeletal muscle involves activation of both actomyosin and sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca²⁺-pump (SERCA) ATPases, which together determine the overall ATP demand. During repetitive contractions leading to fatigue, the relaxation rate and Ca²⁺ pumping become slowed, possibly because of intracellular metabolite accumulation. The role of the energy cost of cross-bridge cycling during contractile activity on Ca²⁺-pumping properties has not been investigated. Therefore, we inhibited cross-bridge cycling by incubating isolated Xenopus single fibers with N-benzyl-p-toluene sulfonamide (BTS) to study the mechanisms by which SR Ca²⁺ pumping is impaired during fatiguing contractions. Fibers were stimulated in the absence (control) and presence of BTS and cytosolic calcium ([Ca²⁺]c) transients or intracellular pH (pHi) changes were measured. BTS treatment allowed normal [Ca²⁺]c transients during stimulation without cross-bridge activation. At the time point that tension was reduced to 50% in the control condition, the fall in the peak [Ca²⁺]c and the increase in basal [Ca²⁺]c did not occur with BTS incubation. The progressively slower Ca²⁺ pumping rate and the fall in pHi during repetitive contractions were reduced during BTS conditions. However, when mitochondrial ATP supply was blocked during contractions with BTS present (BTS + cyanide), there was no further slowing in SR Ca²⁺ pumping during contractions compared with the BTS-alone condition. Furthermore, the fall in pHi was significantly less during the BTS + cyanide condition than in the control conditions. These results demonstrate that factors related to the energetic cost of cross-bridge cycling, possibly the accumulation of metabolites, inhibit the Ca²⁺ pumping rate during fatiguing contractions.

Effects of hypothyroidism on the skeletal muscle blood flow response to contractions.

PubMed

Bausch, L; McAllister, R M

2003-04-01

Hypothyroidism is associated with impaired blood flow to skeletal muscle under whole body exercise conditions. It is unclear whether poor cardiac and/or vascular function account for blunted muscle blood flow. Our experiment isolated a small group of hindlimb muscles and simulated exercise via tetanic contractions. We hypothesized that muscle blood flow would be attenuated in hypothyroid rats (HYPO) compared with euthyroid rats (EUT). Rats were made hypothyroid by mixing propylthiouracil in their drinking water (2.35 x 10-3 mol/l). Treatment efficacy was evidenced by lower serum T3 concentrations and resting heart rates in HYPO (both P<0.05). In the experimental preparation, isometric contractions of the lower right hindlimb muscles at a rate of 30 tetani/min were induced via sciatic nerve stimulation. Regional blood flows were determined by the radiolabelled microsphere method at three time points: rest, 2 min of contractions and 10 min of contractions. Muscle blood flow generally increased from rest ( approximately 5-10 ml/min per 100 g) through contractions for both groups. Further, blood flow during contractions did not differ between groups for any muscle (eg. red section of gastrocnemius muscle; EUT, 59.9 +/- 14.1; HYPO, 61.1 +/- 15.0; NS between groups). These findings indicate that hypothyroidism does not significantly impair skeletal muscle blood flow when only a small muscle mass is contracting. Our findings suggest that impaired blood flow under whole body exercise is accounted for by inadequate cardiac function rather than abnormal vascular function.

Effects of soil aggregates on debris-flow mobilization: Results from ring-shear experiments

USGS Publications Warehouse

Iverson, Neal R.; Mann, Janet E.; Iverson, Richard M.

2010-01-01

Rates and styles of landslide motion are sensitive to pore-water pressure changes caused by changes in soil porosity accompanying shear deformation. Soil may either contract or dilate upon shearing, depending upon whether its initial porosity is greater or less, respectively, than a critical-state porosity attained after sufficiently high strain. We observed complications in this behavior, however, during rate-controlled (0.02 m s−1) ring-shear experiments conducted on naturally aggregated dense loamy sand at low confining stresses (10.6 and 40 kPa). The aggregated soil first dilated and then contracted to porosities less than initial values, whereas the same soil with its aggregates destroyed monotonically dilated. We infer that aggregates persisted initially during shear and caused dilation before their eventual breakdown enabled net contraction. An implication of this contraction, demonstrated in experiments in which initial soil porosity was varied, is that the value of porosity distinguishing initially contractive from dilative behavior can be significantly larger than the critical-state porosity, which develops only after disaggregation ceases at high strains. In addition, post-dilative contraction may produce excess pore pressures, thereby reducing frictional strength and facilitating debris-flow mobilization. We infer that results of triaxial tests, which generally produce strains at least a factor of ∼ 4 smaller than those we observed at the inception of post-dilative contraction, do not allow soil contraction to be ruled out as a mechanism for debris-flow mobilization in dense soils containing aggregates.

Perceptions of Supervision Processes and Practices in Initial Contract, Tenured, and Distinguished-Rated Teachers as They Relate to Self-Learning and Growth in One Large Suburban School District

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Watters, Chad M.

2017-01-01

The purpose of this mixed methods study is to examine the perceptions of supervision practices in initial contract, tenured, and distinguished-rated teachers at the elementary level in one large, suburban school district. This study described teacher perceptions of clinical and alternative supervision practices. Six research questions guided this…

Open Questions on the Global Contraction of Mercury

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Klimczak, C.; Byrne, P. K.

2018-05-01

Substantial progress has been made on determining the amount, timing, and rate of global contraction on Mercury. But many open questions remain to be answered about the process itself, associated landforms, and interactions with other processes.

48 CFR 642.703 - General.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false General. 642.703 Section 642.703 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEPARTMENT OF STATE CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 642.703 General. ...

EFFECT OF MASSIVE NEUTRON EXPOSURE ON THE DISTORTION OF REACTOR GRAPHITE

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

Helm, J.W.; Davidson, J.M.

1963-05-28

Distortion of reactor-grade graphites was studied at varying neutron exposures ranging up to 14 x 10/sup 21/ neutrons per cm/sup 2/ (nvt)/sup */ at temperatures of irradiation ranging from 425 to 800 deg C. This exposure level corresponds to approximately 100,000 megawatt days per adjacent ton of fuel (Mwd/ At) in a graphite-moderated reactor. A conventionalcoke graphite, CSF, and two needle-coke graphites, NC-7 and NC-8, were studied. At all temperatures of irradiation the contraction rate of the samples cut parallel to the extrusion axis increased with increasing neutron exposure. For parallel samples the needle- coke graphites and the CSF graphitemore » contracted approximately the same amount. In the transverse direction the rate of cortraction at the higher irradiation temperntures appeared to be decreasing. Volume contractions derived from the linear contractions are discussed. (auth)« less

Fluctuations in isometric muscle force can be described by one linear projection of low-frequency components of motor unit discharge rates

PubMed Central

Negro, Francesco; Holobar, Aleš; Farina, Dario

2009-01-01

The aim of the study was to investigate the relation between linear transformations of motor unit discharge rates and muscle force. Intramuscular (wire electrodes) and high-density surface EMG (13 × 5 electrode grid) were recorded from the abductor digiti minimi muscle of eight healthy men during 60 s contractions at 5%, 7.5% and 10% of the maximal force. Spike trains of a total of 222 motor units were identified from the EMG recordings with decomposition algorithms. Principal component analysis of the smoothed motor unit discharge rates indicated that one component (first common component, FCC) described 44.2 ± 7.5% of the total variability of the smoothed discharge rates when computed over the entire contraction interval and 64.3 ± 10.2% of the variability when computed over 5 s intervals. When the FCC was computed from four or more motor units per contraction, it correlated with the force produced by the muscle (62.7 ± 10.1%) by a greater degree (P < 0.001) than the smoothed discharge rates of individual motor units (41.4 ± 7.8%). The correlation between FCC and the force signal increased up to 71.8 ± 13.1% when the duration and the shape of the smoothing window for discharge rates were similar to the average motor unit twitch force. Moreover, the coefficients of variation (CoV) for the force and for the FCC signal were correlated in all subjects (R2 range = 0.14–0.56; P < 0.05) whereas the CoV for force was correlated to the interspike interval variability in only one subject (R2= 0.12; P < 0.05). Similar results were further obtained from measures on the tibialis anterior muscle of an additional eight subjects during contractions at forces up to 20% of the maximal force (e.g. FCC explained 59.8 ± 11.0% of variability of the smoothed discharge rates). In conclusion, one signal captures most of the underlying variability of the low-frequency components of motor unit discharge rates and explains large part of the fluctuations in the motor output during isometric contractions. PMID:19840996

Fluctuations in isometric muscle force can be described by one linear projection of low-frequency components of motor unit discharge rates.

PubMed

Negro, Francesco; Holobar, Ales; Farina, Dario

2009-12-15

The aim of the study was to investigate the relation between linear transformations of motor unit discharge rates and muscle force. Intramuscular (wire electrodes) and high-density surface EMG (13 x 5 electrode grid) were recorded from the abductor digiti minimi muscle of eight healthy men during 60 s contractions at 5%, 7.5% and 10% of the maximal force. Spike trains of a total of 222 motor units were identified from the EMG recordings with decomposition algorithms. Principal component analysis of the smoothed motor unit discharge rates indicated that one component (first common component, FCC) described 44.2 +/- 7.5% of the total variability of the smoothed discharge rates when computed over the entire contraction interval and 64.3 +/- 10.2% of the variability when computed over 5 s intervals. When the FCC was computed from four or more motor units per contraction, it correlated with the force produced by the muscle (62.7 +/- 10.1%) by a greater degree (P < 0.001) than the smoothed discharge rates of individual motor units (41.4 +/- 7.8%). The correlation between FCC and the force signal increased up to 71.8 +/- 13.1% when the duration and the shape of the smoothing window for discharge rates were similar to the average motor unit twitch force. Moreover, the coefficients of variation (CoV) for the force and for the FCC signal were correlated in all subjects (R(2) range = 0.14-0.56; P < 0.05) whereas the CoV for force was correlated to the interspike interval variability in only one subject (R(2) = 0.12; P < 0.05). Similar results were further obtained from measures on the tibialis anterior muscle of an additional eight subjects during contractions at forces up to 20% of the maximal force (e.g. FCC explained 59.8 +/- 11.0% of variability of the smoothed discharge rates). In conclusion, one signal captures most of the underlying variability of the low-frequency components of motor unit discharge rates and explains large part of the fluctuations in the motor output during isometric contractions.

15 CFR Appendix A to Part 14 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... wages of every mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of... than 11/2 times the basic rate of pay for all hours worked in excess of 40 hours in the work week.... Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act (40 U.S.C. 327-333)—Where applicable, all contracts awarded by...

A comparison of the costs of forest service and contract fire crews in the Pacific Northwest.

Treesearch

Geoffrey H. Donovan

2005-01-01

Rising wildfire suppression expenditures on public land in the United States have led to increased scrutiny of wildfire management practices. One area that has received particular attention is the Forest Service's increasing reliance on contract fire crews. Because a contract crew rate includes several costs that are not included in the wage costs of a Forest...

A STRICTLY CONTRACTIVE PEACEMAN-RACHFORD SPLITTING METHOD FOR CONVEX PROGRAMMING.

PubMed

Bingsheng, He; Liu, Han; Wang, Zhaoran; Yuan, Xiaoming

2014-07-01

In this paper, we focus on the application of the Peaceman-Rachford splitting method (PRSM) to a convex minimization model with linear constraints and a separable objective function. Compared to the Douglas-Rachford splitting method (DRSM), another splitting method from which the alternating direction method of multipliers originates, PRSM requires more restrictive assumptions to ensure its convergence, while it is always faster whenever it is convergent. We first illustrate that the reason for this difference is that the iterative sequence generated by DRSM is strictly contractive, while that generated by PRSM is only contractive with respect to the solution set of the model. With only the convexity assumption on the objective function of the model under consideration, the convergence of PRSM is not guaranteed. But for this case, we show that the first t iterations of PRSM still enable us to find an approximate solution with an accuracy of O (1/ t ). A worst-case O (1/ t ) convergence rate of PRSM in the ergodic sense is thus established under mild assumptions. After that, we suggest attaching an underdetermined relaxation factor with PRSM to guarantee the strict contraction of its iterative sequence and thus propose a strictly contractive PRSM. A worst-case O (1/ t ) convergence rate of this strictly contractive PRSM in a nonergodic sense is established. We show the numerical efficiency of the strictly contractive PRSM by some applications in statistical learning and image processing.

An Implantable Extracardiac Soft Robotic Device for the Failing Heart: Mechanical Coupling and Synchronization.

PubMed

Payne, Christopher J; Wamala, Isaac; Abah, Colette; Thalhofer, Thomas; Saeed, Mossab; Bautista-Salinas, Daniel; Horvath, Markus A; Vasilyev, Nikolay V; Roche, Ellen T; Pigula, Frank A; Walsh, Conor J

2017-09-01

Soft robotic devices have significant potential for medical device applications that warrant safe synergistic interaction with humans. This article describes the optimization of an implantable soft robotic system for heart failure whereby soft actuators wrapped around the ventricles are programmed to contract and relax in synchrony with the beating heart. Elastic elements integrated into the soft actuators provide recoiling function so as to aid refilling during the diastolic phase of the cardiac cycle. Improved synchronization with the biological system is achieved by incorporating the native ventricular pressure into the control system to trigger assistance and synchronize the device with the heart. A three-state electro-pneumatic valve configuration allows the actuators to contract at different rates to vary contraction patterns. An in vivo study was performed to test three hypotheses relating to mechanical coupling and temporal synchronization of the actuators and heart. First, that adhesion of the actuators to the ventricles improves cardiac output. Second, that there is a contraction-relaxation ratio of the actuators which generates optimal cardiac output. Third, that the rate of actuator contraction is a factor in cardiac output.

Capitation: strategies for success with managed care contracts.

PubMed

Kuklierus, A

1997-01-01

With enrollments in HMOs increasing at double digit rates, independent practice associations, integrated medical groups, hospitals and specialty networks are experiencing a substantial increase in the share of their business paid for through capitation. Experience has shown that once one contract is signed, many are sure to follow. Providers must make sure each contract signed is financially sound for the organization. Then they must be able to manage and monitor contracts long after the ink is dry. This column provides a brief overview ad list of pointers for organizations moving into the managed care arena.

Serotonergic and peptidergic modulation of the buccal mass protractor muscle (I2) in aplysia.

PubMed

Hurwitz, I; Cropper, E C; Vilim, F S; Alexeeva, V; Susswein, A J; Kupfermann, I; Weiss, K R

2000-12-01

Plasticity of Aplysia feeding has largely been measured by noting changes in radula protraction. On the basis of previous work, it has been suggested that peripheral modulation may contribute to behavioral plasticity. However, peripheral plasticity has not been demonstrated in the neuromuscular systems that participate in radula protraction. Therefore in this study we investigated whether contractions of a major radula protraction muscle (I2) are subject to modulation. We demonstrate, first, that an increase in the firing frequency of the cholinergic I2 motoneurons will increase the amplitude of the resulting muscle contraction but will not modulate its relaxation rate. We show, second, that neuronal processes on the I2 muscle are immunoreactive to myomodulin (MM), RFamide, and serotonin (5-HT), but not to small cardioactive peptide (SCP) or buccalin. The I2 motoneurons B31, B32, B61, and B62 are not immunoreactive to RFamide, 5-HT, SCP, or buccalin. However, all four cells are MM immunoreactive and are capable of synthesizing MMa. Third, we show that the bioactivity of the different modulators is somewhat different; while the MMs (i.e., MMa and MMb) and 5-HT increase I2 muscle relaxation rate, and potentiate muscle contraction amplitude, MMa, at high concentrations, depresses muscle contractions. Fourth, our data suggest that cAMP at least partially mediates effects of modulators on contraction amplitude and relaxation rate.

Nurse employment contracts in Chinese hospitals: impact of inequitable benefit structures on nurse and patient satisfaction

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Purpose Ongoing economic and health system reforms in China have transformed nurse employment in Chinese hospitals. Employment of ‘bianzhi’ nurses, a type of position with state-guaranteed lifetime employment that has been customary since 1949, is decreasing while there is an increase in the contract-based nurse employment with limited job security and reduced benefits. The consequences of inequities between the two types of nurses in terms of wages and job-related benefits are unknown. This study examined current rates of contract-based nurse employment and the effects of the new nurse contract employment strategy on nurse and patient outcomes in Chinese hospitals. Methods This cross-sectional study used geographically representative survey data collected from 2008 to 2010 from 181 hospitals in six provinces, two municipalities, and one autonomous region in China. Logistic regression models were used to estimate the association between contract-based nurse utilization, dissatisfaction among contract-based nurses, nurse intentions to leave their positions, and patient satisfaction, controlling for nurse, patient, and hospital characteristics. Principal Results Hospital-level utilization of contract-based nurses varies greatly from 0 to 91%, with an average of 51%. Contract-based nurses were significantly more dissatisfied with their remuneration and benefits than ‘bianzhi’ nurses who have more job security (P <0.01). Contract-based nurses who were dissatisfied with their salary and benefits were more likely to intend to leave their current positions (P <0.01). Hospitals with high levels of dissatisfaction with salary and benefits among contract-based nurses were rated lower and less likely to be recommended by patients (P < 0.05). Conclusions Our results suggest a high utilization of contract-based nurses in Chinese hospitals, and that the inequities in benefits between contract-based nurses and ‘bianzhi’ nurses may adversely affect both nurse and patient satisfaction in hospitals. Our study provides empirical support for the ‘equal pay for equal work’ policy emphasized by the China Ministry of Health’s recent regulations, and calls for efforts in Chinese hospitals to eliminate the disparities between ‘bianzhi’ and contract-based nurses. PMID:24418223

Nurse employment contracts in Chinese hospitals: impact of inequitable benefit structures on nurse and patient satisfaction.

PubMed

Shang, Jingjing; You, Liming; Ma, Chenjuan; Altares, Danielle; Sloane, Douglas M; Aiken, Linda H

2014-01-13

Ongoing economic and health system reforms in China have transformed nurse employment in Chinese hospitals. Employment of 'bianzhi' nurses, a type of position with state-guaranteed lifetime employment that has been customary since 1949, is decreasing while there is an increase in the contract-based nurse employment with limited job security and reduced benefits. The consequences of inequities between the two types of nurses in terms of wages and job-related benefits are unknown. This study examined current rates of contract-based nurse employment and the effects of the new nurse contract employment strategy on nurse and patient outcomes in Chinese hospitals. This cross-sectional study used geographically representative survey data collected from 2008 to 2010 from 181 hospitals in six provinces, two municipalities, and one autonomous region in China. Logistic regression models were used to estimate the association between contract-based nurse utilization, dissatisfaction among contract-based nurses, nurse intentions to leave their positions, and patient satisfaction, controlling for nurse, patient, and hospital characteristics. Hospital-level utilization of contract-based nurses varies greatly from 0 to 91%, with an average of 51%. Contract-based nurses were significantly more dissatisfied with their remuneration and benefits than 'bianzhi' nurses who have more job security (P <0.01). Contract-based nurses who were dissatisfied with their salary and benefits were more likely to intend to leave their current positions (P <0.01). Hospitals with high levels of dissatisfaction with salary and benefits among contract-based nurses were rated lower and less likely to be recommended by patients (P < 0.05). Our results suggest a high utilization of contract-based nurses in Chinese hospitals, and that the inequities in benefits between contract-based nurses and 'bianzhi' nurses may adversely affect both nurse and patient satisfaction in hospitals. Our study provides empirical support for the 'equal pay for equal work' policy emphasized by the China Ministry of Health's recent regulations, and calls for efforts in Chinese hospitals to eliminate the disparities between 'bianzhi' and contract-based nurses.

Using a thermistor flowmeter with attached video camera for monitoring sponge excurrent speed and oscular behaviour

PubMed Central

Jorgensen, Damien; Webster, Nicole S.; Pineda, Mari-Carmen; Duckworth, Alan

2016-01-01

A digital, four-channel thermistor flowmeter integrated with time-lapse cameras was developed as an experimental tool for measuring pumping rates in marine sponges, particularly those with small excurrent openings (oscula). Combining flowmeters with time-lapse imagery yielded valuable insights into the contractile behaviour of oscula in Cliona orientalis. Osculum cross-sectional area (OSA) was positively correlated to measured excurrent speeds (ES), indicating that sponge pumping and osculum contraction are coordinated behaviours. Both OSA and ES were positively correlated to pumping rate (Q). Diel trends in pumping activity and osculum contraction were also observed, with sponges increasing their pumping activity to peak at midday and decreasing pumping and contracting oscula at night. Short-term elevation of the suspended sediment concentration (SSC) within the seawater initially decreased pumping rates by up to 90%, ultimately resulting in closure of the oscula and cessation of pumping. PMID:27994973

Motor unit recruitment and derecruitment induced by brief increase in contraction amplitude of the human trapezius muscle

PubMed Central

Westad, C; Westgaard, R H; De Luca, C J

2003-01-01

The activity pattern of low-threshold human trapezius motor units was examined in response to brief, voluntary increases in contraction amplitude (‘EMG pulse’) superimposed on a constant contraction at 4–7% of the surface electromyographic (EMG) response at maximal voluntary contraction (4–7% EMGmax). EMG pulses at 15–20% EMGmax were superimposed every minute on contractions of 5, 10, or 30 min duration. A quadrifilar fine-wire electrode recorded single motor unit activity and a surface electrode recorded simultaneously the surface EMG signal. Low-threshold motor units recruited at the start of the contraction were observed to stop firing while motor units of higher recruitment threshold stayed active. Derecruitment of a motor unit coincided with the end of an EMG pulse. The lowest-threshold motor units showed only brief silent periods. Some motor units with recruitment threshold up to 5% EMGmax higher than the constant contraction level were recruited during an EMG pulse and kept firing throughout the contraction. Following an EMG pulse, there was a marked reduction in motor unit firing rates upon return of the surface EMG signal to the constant contraction level, outlasting the EMG pulse by 4 s on average. The reduction in firing rates may serve as a trigger to induce derecruitment. We speculate that the silent periods following derecruitment may be due to deactivation of non-inactivating inward current (‘plateau potentials’). The firing behaviour of trapezius motor units in these experiments may thus illustrate a mechanism and a control strategy to reduce fatigue of motor units with sustained activity patterns. PMID:14561844

Serum creatinine and albumin decline predict the contraction of nosocomial aspiration pneumonia in patients undergoing hemodialysis.

PubMed

Minakuchi, Hitoshi; Wakino, Shu; Hayashi, Koichi; Inamoto, Hajime; Itoh, Hiroshi

2014-08-01

Aspiration pneumonia (AP) is prevalent in older adults and the hemodialysis (HD) population has been getting older. Therefore, it is speculated that increasing number of HD patients would suffer from AP. However, the clinical aspects of AP in HD patients have not been elucidated. Consecutive HD patients with nosocomial AP hospitalized in our university hospital from April 2007 to December 2008 were recruited. Their clinical characteristics, risk factors for contraction, and the fatality of AP and treatment options were described. Nineteen out of 356 hospitalized HD patients had AP and 8 out of 19 AP patients died, indicating the incidence rate and fatality rate were 5.34% and 42.1%, respectively. Multiple regression analysis revealed that the risk factors for contracting AP included age, body mass index, serum creatinine levels (Cre) and the monthly decline rate of Cre. It also revealed that serum albumin (Alb) and basal total cholesterol levels, the decline rate of Alb and Cre levels, and the duration of AP were independent risk factors for fatality. Survivors were most often treated with tube feeding. Both contraction rate and fatality of nosocomial AP were high among HD patients. Both the malnutrition as well as the decline rate for nutrition and muscle volume indicated by falls in Alb and Cre, respectively, had clinical relevance in AP. Maintaining nutritional state by tube feeding and muscle volume seems to be the mainstay for the prevention and the treatment of AP in HD patients. © 2013 The Authors. Therapeutic Apheresis and Dialysis © 2013 International Society for Apheresis.

Female pheromones modulate flight muscle activation patterns during preflight warm-up.

PubMed

Crespo, José G; Vickers, Neil J; Goller, Franz

2013-08-01

At low ambient temperature Helicoverpa zea male moths engage in warm-up behavior prior to taking flight in response to an attractive female pheromone blend. Male H. zea warm up at a faster rate when sensing the attractive pheromone blend compared with unattractive blends or blank controls (Crespo et al. 2012), but the mechanisms involved in this olfactory modulation of the heating rate during preflight warm-up are unknown. Here, we test three possible mechanisms for increasing heat production: 1) increased rate of muscle contraction; 2) reduction in mechanical movement by increased overlap in activation of the antagonistic flight muscles; and 3) increased activation of motor units. To test which mechanisms play a role, we simultaneously recorded electrical activation patterns of the main flight muscles (dorsolongitudinal and dorsoventral muscles), wing movement, and thoracic temperature in moths exposed to both the attractive pheromone blend and a blank control. Results indicate that the main mechanism responsible for the observed increase in thoracic heating rate with pheromone stimulation is the differential activation of motor units during each muscle contraction cycle in both antagonistic flight muscles. This additional activation lengthens the contracted state within each cycle and thus accounts for the greater heat production. Interestingly, the rate of activation (frequency of contraction cycles) of motor units, which is temperature dependent, did not vary between treatments. This result suggests that the activation rate is determined by a temperature-dependent oscillator, which is not affected by the olfactory stimulus, but activation of motor units is modulated during each cycle.

Female pheromones modulate flight muscle activation patterns during preflight warm-up

PubMed Central

Vickers, Neil J.; Goller, Franz

2013-01-01

At low ambient temperature Helicoverpa zea male moths engage in warm-up behavior prior to taking flight in response to an attractive female pheromone blend. Male H. zea warm up at a faster rate when sensing the attractive pheromone blend compared with unattractive blends or blank controls (Crespo et al. 2012), but the mechanisms involved in this olfactory modulation of the heating rate during preflight warm-up are unknown. Here, we test three possible mechanisms for increasing heat production: 1) increased rate of muscle contraction; 2) reduction in mechanical movement by increased overlap in activation of the antagonistic flight muscles; and 3) increased activation of motor units. To test which mechanisms play a role, we simultaneously recorded electrical activation patterns of the main flight muscles (dorsolongitudinal and dorsoventral muscles), wing movement, and thoracic temperature in moths exposed to both the attractive pheromone blend and a blank control. Results indicate that the main mechanism responsible for the observed increase in thoracic heating rate with pheromone stimulation is the differential activation of motor units during each muscle contraction cycle in both antagonistic flight muscles. This additional activation lengthens the contracted state within each cycle and thus accounts for the greater heat production. Interestingly, the rate of activation (frequency of contraction cycles) of motor units, which is temperature dependent, did not vary between treatments. This result suggests that the activation rate is determined by a temperature-dependent oscillator, which is not affected by the olfactory stimulus, but activation of motor units is modulated during each cycle. PMID:23699056

Motor unit recruitment in human biceps brachii during sustained voluntary contractions.

PubMed

Riley, Zachary A; Maerz, Adam H; Litsey, Jane C; Enoka, Roger M

2008-04-15

The purpose of the study was to examine the influence of the difference between the recruitment threshold of a motor unit and the target force of the sustained contraction on the discharge of the motor unit at recruitment. The discharge characteristics of 53 motor units in biceps brachii were recorded after being recruited during a sustained contraction. Some motor units (n = 22) discharged action potentials tonically after being recruited, whereas others (n = 31) discharged intermittent trains of action potentials. The two groups of motor units were distinguished by the difference between the recruitment threshold of the motor unit and the target force for the sustained contraction: tonic, 5.9 +/- 2.5%; intermittent, 10.7 +/- 2.9%. Discharge rate for the tonic units decreased progressively (13.9 +/- 2.7 to 11.7 +/- 2.6 pulses s(-1); P = 0.04) during the 99 +/- 111 s contraction. Train rate, train duration and average discharge rate for the intermittent motor units did not change across 211 +/- 153 s of intermittent discharge. The initial discharge rate at recruitment during the sustained contraction was lower for the intermittent motor units (11.0 +/- 3.3 pulses s(-1)) than the tonic motor units (13.7 +/- 3.3 pulses s(-1); P = 0.005), and the coefficient of variation for interspike interval was higher for the intermittent motor units (34.6 +/- 12.3%) than the tonic motor units (21.2 +/- 9.4%) at recruitment (P = 0.001) and remained elevated for discharge duration (34.6 +/- 9.2% versus 19.1 +/- 11.7%, P < 0.001). In an additional experiment, 12 motor units were recorded at two different target forces below recruitment threshold (5.7 +/- 1.9% and 10.5 +/- 2.4%). Each motor unit exhibited the two discharge patterns (tonic and intermittent) as observed for the 53 motor units. The results suggest that newly recruited motor units with recruitment thresholds closer to the target force experienced less synaptic noise at the time of recruitment that resulted in them discharging action potentials at more regular and greater rates than motor units with recruitment thresholds further from the target force.

48 CFR 42.705-2 - Auditor determination procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Auditor determination... CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 42.705-2 Auditor determination procedure. (a) Applicability and responsibility. (1) The cognizant Government auditor shall...

29 CFR 5.16 - Training plans approved or recognized by the Department of Labor prior to August 20, 1975.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... STANDARDS PROVISIONS APPLICABLE TO NONCONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS SUBJECT TO THE CONTRACT WORK HOURS AND SAFETY... rate determined by the Secretary of Labor for the classification of work actually performed. The ratio...

48 CFR 41.204 - GSA areawide contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... authorization form for ordering service, connection, disconnection, or change in service. Upon execution of an... services, without further negotiation, at the current, applicable published or unpublished rates, unless...) 26, Award/Contract, along with any modifications such as connection charges, special facilities, or...

48 CFR 242.771-3 - Responsibilities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 3 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Responsibilities. 242.771-3 Section 242.771-3 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEFENSE ACQUISITION REGULATIONS SYSTEM, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 242...

48 CFR 42.705-2 - Auditor determination procedure.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Auditor determination... CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 42.705-2 Auditor determination procedure. (a) Applicability and responsibility. (1) The cognizant Government auditor shall...

77 FR 75678 - International Mail Contract

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-12-21

... POSTAL REGULATORY COMMISSION [Docket No. CP2013-27; Order No. 1582] International Mail Contract AGENCY: Postal Regulatory Commission. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: The Commission is noticing a recently-filed Postal Service notice concerning changes to Inbound Air Parcel Post (at UPU Rates). This document...

48 CFR 42.603 - Responsibilities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... Responsibilities. (a) The CACO shall perform, on a corporate-wide basis, the contract administration functions as designated by the responsible agency. Typical CACO functions include (1) the determination of final indirect cost rates for cost-reimbursement contracts, (2) establishment of advance agreements or recommendations...

Examination of contraction-induced muscle pain as a behavioral correlate of physical activity in women with and without fibromyalgia.

PubMed

Umeda, Masataka; Corbin, Lisa W; Maluf, Katrina S

2015-01-01

This study aimed to compare muscle pain intensity during a sustained isometric contraction in women with and without fibromyalgia (FM), and examine the association between muscle pain and self-reported levels of physical activity. Fourteen women with FM and 14 healthy women completed the study, where muscle pain ratings (MPRs) were obtained every 30 s during a 3 min isometric handgrip task at 25% maximal strength, and self-reported physical activity was quantified using the Baecke Physical Activity Questionnaire. Women with FM were less physically active than healthy controls. During the isometric contraction, MPR progressively increased in both groups at a comparable rate, but women with FM generally reported a greater intensity of muscle pain than healthy controls. Among all women, average MPR scores were inversely associated with self-reported physical activity levels. Women with FM exhibit augmented muscle pain during isometric contractions and reduced physical activity than healthy controls. Furthermore, contraction-induced muscle pain is inversely associated with physical activity levels. These observations suggest that augmented muscle pain may serve as a behavioral correlate of reduced physical activity in women with FM. Implications for Rehabilitation Women with fibromyalgia experience a greater intensity of localized muscle pain in a contracting muscle compared to healthy women. The intensity of pain during muscle contraction is inversely associated with the amount of physical activity in women with and without fibromyalgia. Future studies should determine whether exercise adherence can be improved by considering the relationship between contraction-induced muscle pain and participation in routine physical activity.

Immigration, work and health in Spain: the influence of legal status and employment contract on reported health indicators

PubMed Central

Agudelo-Suárez, Andrés; Benavides, Fernando G.; Schenker, Marc; García, Ana M.; Benach, Joan; Delclos, Carlos; López-Jacob, María José; Ruiz-Frutos, Carlos; Ronda-Pérez, Elena; Porthé, Victoria

2010-01-01

Objective To analyze the relationship of legal status and employment conditions with health indicators in foreign-born and Spanish-born workers in Spain. Methods Cross-sectional study of 1,849 foreign-born and 509 Spanish-born workers (2008–2009, ITSAL Project). Considered employment conditions: permanent, temporary and no contract (foreign-born and Spanish-born); considered legal statuses: documented and undocumented (foreign-born). Joint relationships with self-rated health (SRH) and mental health (MH) were analyzed via logistical regression. Results When compared with male permanently contracted Spanish-born workers, worse health is seen in undocumented foreign-born, time in Spain ≤3 years (SRH aOR 2.68, 95% CI 1.09–6.56; MH aOR 2.26, 95% CI 1.15–4.42); in Spanish-born, temporary contracts (SRH aOR 2.40, 95% CI 1.04–5.53); and in foreign-born, temporary contracts, time in Spain >3 years (MH: aOR 1.96, 95% CI 1.13–3.38). In females, highest self-rated health risks are in foreign-born, temporary contracts (aOR 2.36, 95% CI 1.13–4.91) and without contracts, time in Spain >3 years (aOR 4.63, 95% CI 1.95–10.97). Conclusions Contract type is a health determinant in both foreign-born and Spanish-born workers. This study offers an uncommon exploration of undocumented migration and raises methodological issues to consider in future research. PMID:20401513

Relaxation of Isolated Ventricular Cardiomyocytes by a Voltage-Dependent Process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bridge, John H. B.; Spitzer, Kenneth W.; Ershler, Philip R.

1988-08-01

Cell contraction and relaxation were measured in single voltage-clamped guinea pig cardiomyocytes to investigate the contribution of sarcolemmal Na+-Ca2+ exchange to mechanical relaxation. Cells clamped from -80 to 0 millivolts displayed initial phasic and subsequent tonic contractions; caffeine reduced or abolished the phasic and enlarged the tonic contraction. The rate of relaxation from tonic contractions was steeply voltage-dependent and was significantly slowed in the absence of a sarcolemmal Na+ gradient. Tonic contractions elicited in the absence of a Na+ gradient promptly relaxed when external Na+ was applied, reflecting activation of Na+-Ca2+ exchange. It appears that a voltage-dependent Na+-Ca2+ exchange can rapidly mechanically relax mammalian heart muscle.

Developing a tool for the preparation of GMP audit of pharmaceutical contract manufacturer.

PubMed

Linna, Anu; Korhonen, Mirka; Mannermaa, Jukka-Pekka; Airaksinen, Marja; Juppo, Anne Mari

2008-06-01

Outsourcing is rapidly growing in the pharmaceutical industry. When the manufacturing activities are outsourced, control of the product's quality has to be maintained. One way to confirm contract manufacturer's GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) compliance is auditing. Audits can be supported for instance by using GMP questionnaires. The objective of this study was to develop a tool for the audit preparation of pharmaceutical contract manufacturers and to validate its contents by using Delphi method. At this phase of the study the tool was developed for non-sterile finished product contract manufacturers. A modified Delphi method was used with expert panel consisting of 14 experts from pharmaceutical industry, authorities and university. The content validity of the developed tool was assessed by a Delphi questionnaire round. The response rate in Delphi questionnaire round was 86%. The tool consisted of 103 quality items, from which 90 (87%) achieved the pre-defined agreement rate level (75%). Thirteen quality items which did not achieve the pre-defined agreement rate were excluded from the tool. The expert panel suggested only minor changes to the tool. The results show that the content validity of the developed audit preparation tool was good.

Exaggerated haemodynamic and neural responses to involuntary contractions induced by whole-body vibration in normotensive obese versus lean women.

PubMed

Dipla, Konstantina; Kousoula, Dimitra; Zafeiridis, Andreas; Karatrantou, Konstantina; Nikolaidis, Michalis G; Kyparos, Antonios; Gerodimos, Vassilis; Vrabas, Ioannis S

2016-06-01

What is the central question of this study? In obesity, the exaggerated blood pressure response to voluntary exercise is linked to hypertension, yet the mechanisms are not fully elucidated. We examined whether involuntary contractions elicit greater haemodynamic responses and altered neural control of blood pressure in normotensive obese versus lean women. What is the main finding and its importance? During involuntary contractions induced by whole-body vibration, there were augmented blood pressure and spontaneous baroreflex responses in obese compared with lean women. This finding is suggestive of an overactive mechanoreflex in the exercise-induced hypertensive response in obesity. Passive contractions did not elicit differential heart rate responses in obese compared with lean women, implying other mechanisms for the blunted heart rate response reported during voluntary exercise in obesity. In obesity, the exaggerated blood pressure (BP) response to exercise is linked to hypertension, yet the mechanisms are not fully elucidated. In this study, we examined whether involuntary mechanical oscillations, induced by whole-body vibration (WBV), elicit greater haemodynamic responses and altered neural control of BP in obese versus lean women. Twenty-two normotensive, premenopausal women (12 lean and 10 obese) randomly underwent a passive WBV (25 Hz) and a control protocol (similar posture without WVB). Beat-by-beat BP, heart rate, stroke volume, systemic vascular resistance, cardiac output, parasympathetic output (evaluated by heart rate variability) and spontaneous baroreceptor sensitivity (sBRS) were assessed. We found that during WBV, obese women exhibited an augmented systolic BP response compared with lean women that was correlated with body fat percentage (r = 0.77; P < 0.05). The exaggerated BP rise was driven mainly by the greater increase in cardiac output index in obese versus lean women, associated with a greater stroke volume index in obese women. Involuntary contractions did not elicit a differential magnitude of responses in heart rate, heart rate variability indices and systemic vascular resistance in obese versus lean women; however, they did result in greater sBRS responses (P < 0.05) in obese women. In conclusion, involuntary contractions elicited an augmented BP and sBRS response in normotensive obese versus lean women. The greater elevations in circulatory haemodynamics in obese women are suggestive of an overactive mechanoreflex in the exercise-induced hypertensive response in obesity. © 2016 The Authors. Experimental Physiology © 2016 The Physiological Society.

48 CFR 242.771-2 - Policy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 3 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Policy. 242.771-2 Section 242.771-2 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEFENSE ACQUISITION REGULATIONS SYSTEM, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 242.771-2...

48 CFR 42.709-1 - General.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false General. 42.709-1 Section 42.709-1 Federal Acquisition Regulations System FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 42.709-1 General. (a) The following...

78 FR 57419 - International Mail Contract

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-09-18

... POSTAL REGULATORY COMMISSION [Docket No. R2013-9; Order No. 1833] International Mail Contract AGENCY: Postal Regulatory Commission. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: The Commission is noticing a recent Postal Service filing concerning a bilateral rate and service agreement with Korea Post. This notice informs the...

48 CFR 942.705-3 - Educational institutions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 5 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Educational institutions. 942.705-3 Section 942.705-3 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 942.705-3 Educational institutions...

Contingency interaction analysis in psychotherapy.

PubMed

Canfield, M L; Walker, W R; Brown, L G

1991-02-01

This article introduces (a) a computerized coding procedure that rates words and utterances in terms of emotion, cognition, and contract and (b) a contingency method of analyzing verbal interactions. Using transcripts of sessions conducted by 3 master therapists with 1 client, the rating procedure and contingency correlation analyses supported the study's hypotheses. Therapists' utterances were characterized by significantly different amounts of emotion, cognition, and contracts, indicating that communication styles varied in the relative emphasis placed on these attributes. Differences suggest that the therapists responded differently to emotional, cognitive, and contract utterances and that the client's responses were different across the 3 therapist interviews. Split halves of the interviews within therapists and within client sessions were not different, providing further evidence of reliability of the coding and contingency procedures.

Policy Changes Needed at Defense Contract Management Agency to Ensure Forward Pricing Rates Result in Fair and Reasonable Contract Pricing

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-10-09

I N T E G R I T Y  E F F I C I E N C Y  A C C O U N TA B I L I T Y  E XC E L L E N C E Inspector General U.S. Department of Defense Report...No. DODIG-2015-006 O C T O B E R 9 , 2 0 1 4 Policy Changes Needed at Defense Contract Management Agency to Ensure Forward Pricing Rates Result...recognized as leaders in our field. For more information about whistleblower protection, please see the inside back cover. I N T E G R I T Y  E F F I C

A STRICTLY CONTRACTIVE PEACEMAN–RACHFORD SPLITTING METHOD FOR CONVEX PROGRAMMING

PubMed Central

BINGSHENG, HE; LIU, HAN; WANG, ZHAORAN; YUAN, XIAOMING

2014-01-01

In this paper, we focus on the application of the Peaceman–Rachford splitting method (PRSM) to a convex minimization model with linear constraints and a separable objective function. Compared to the Douglas–Rachford splitting method (DRSM), another splitting method from which the alternating direction method of multipliers originates, PRSM requires more restrictive assumptions to ensure its convergence, while it is always faster whenever it is convergent. We first illustrate that the reason for this difference is that the iterative sequence generated by DRSM is strictly contractive, while that generated by PRSM is only contractive with respect to the solution set of the model. With only the convexity assumption on the objective function of the model under consideration, the convergence of PRSM is not guaranteed. But for this case, we show that the first t iterations of PRSM still enable us to find an approximate solution with an accuracy of O(1/t). A worst-case O(1/t) convergence rate of PRSM in the ergodic sense is thus established under mild assumptions. After that, we suggest attaching an underdetermined relaxation factor with PRSM to guarantee the strict contraction of its iterative sequence and thus propose a strictly contractive PRSM. A worst-case O(1/t) convergence rate of this strictly contractive PRSM in a nonergodic sense is established. We show the numerical efficiency of the strictly contractive PRSM by some applications in statistical learning and image processing. PMID:25620862

Materials fatigue initiates eccentric contraction-induced injury in rat soleus muscle.

PubMed Central

Warren, G L; Hayes, D A; Lowe, D A; Prior, B M; Armstrong, R B

1993-01-01

1. The initiation of exercise-induced muscle injury is thought to be the result of high tensile stresses produced in the muscle during eccentric contractions. Materials science theory suggests that high tensile stresses could initiate the injury during the first eccentric contraction (normal stress theory) or after multiple eccentric contractions (materials fatigue). It was the objective of this study to investigate the two possibilities. 2. Rat soleus muscles (n = 66; 11 protocols with 6 muscles per protocol) were isolated, placed in an oxygenated Krebs-Ringer buffer at 37 degrees C, and baseline measurements were made. The muscle then performed an injury protocol which consisted of between zero and ten eccentric contractions (muscle starting length = 0.90 soleus muscle length, L0; length change = 0.25 L0; velocity = 1.5 L0/s; peak force = 180% maximal isometric tetanic tension (P0); time between contractions = 4 min; total duration of the injury protocol = 40 min). At the end of the injury protocol, the muscle was incubated in buffer for 1 h; every 15 min, an isometric twitch and tetanus were performed and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release was measured. Total muscle [Ca2+] was measured at the end of the incubation. 3. Change-point regression analysis indicates that at 0 min into the incubation, declines in P0, maximal rate of tension development (+dP/dt), maximal rate of relaxation (-dP/dt), and muscle stiffness (dP/dx) became significantly greater after eight eccentric contractions (p < or = 0.05). No relation was found between the number of eccentric contractions performed and the LDH activity at 0 min into the incubation, although after 60 min of incubation, LDH activity in the buffer was linearly related to eccentric contraction number (p = 0.01). There was no relationship between total muscle [Ca2+] and eccentric contraction number. These findings support the materials fatigue hypothesis of exercise-induced muscle injury. PMID:8229814

Contractile and mechanical properties of epithelia with perturbed actomyosin dynamics.

PubMed

Fischer, Sabine C; Blanchard, Guy B; Duque, Julia; Adams, Richard J; Arias, Alfonso Martinez; Guest, Simon D; Gorfinkiel, Nicole

2014-01-01

Mechanics has an important role during morphogenesis, both in the generation of forces driving cell shape changes and in determining the effective material properties of cells and tissues. Drosophila dorsal closure has emerged as a reference model system for investigating the interplay between tissue mechanics and cellular activity. During dorsal closure, the amnioserosa generates one of the major forces that drive closure through the apical contraction of its constituent cells. We combined quantitation of live data, genetic and mechanical perturbation and cell biology, to investigate how mechanical properties and contraction rate emerge from cytoskeletal activity. We found that a decrease in Myosin phosphorylation induces a fluidization of amnioserosa cells which become more compliant. Conversely, an increase in Myosin phosphorylation and an increase in actin linear polymerization induce a solidification of cells. Contrary to expectation, these two perturbations have an opposite effect on the strain rate of cells during DC. While an increase in actin polymerization increases the contraction rate of amnioserosa cells, an increase in Myosin phosphorylation gives rise to cells that contract very slowly. The quantification of how the perturbation induced by laser ablation decays throughout the tissue revealed that the tissue in these two mutant backgrounds reacts very differently. We suggest that the differences in the strain rate of cells in situations where Myosin activity or actin polymerization is increased arise from changes in how the contractile forces are transmitted and coordinated across the tissue through ECadherin-mediated adhesion. Altogether, our results show that there is an optimal level of Myosin activity to generate efficient contraction and suggest that the architecture of the actin cytoskeleton and the dynamics of adhesion complexes are important parameters for the emergence of coordinated activity throughout the tissue.

Contractile and Mechanical Properties of Epithelia with Perturbed Actomyosin Dynamics

PubMed Central

Fischer, Sabine C.; Blanchard, Guy B.; Duque, Julia; Adams, Richard J.; Arias, Alfonso Martinez; Guest, Simon D.; Gorfinkiel, Nicole

2014-01-01

Mechanics has an important role during morphogenesis, both in the generation of forces driving cell shape changes and in determining the effective material properties of cells and tissues. Drosophila dorsal closure has emerged as a reference model system for investigating the interplay between tissue mechanics and cellular activity. During dorsal closure, the amnioserosa generates one of the major forces that drive closure through the apical contraction of its constituent cells. We combined quantitation of live data, genetic and mechanical perturbation and cell biology, to investigate how mechanical properties and contraction rate emerge from cytoskeletal activity. We found that a decrease in Myosin phosphorylation induces a fluidization of amnioserosa cells which become more compliant. Conversely, an increase in Myosin phosphorylation and an increase in actin linear polymerization induce a solidification of cells. Contrary to expectation, these two perturbations have an opposite effect on the strain rate of cells during DC. While an increase in actin polymerization increases the contraction rate of amnioserosa cells, an increase in Myosin phosphorylation gives rise to cells that contract very slowly. The quantification of how the perturbation induced by laser ablation decays throughout the tissue revealed that the tissue in these two mutant backgrounds reacts very differently. We suggest that the differences in the strain rate of cells in situations where Myosin activity or actin polymerization is increased arise from changes in how the contractile forces are transmitted and coordinated across the tissue through ECadherin-mediated adhesion. Altogether, our results show that there is an optimal level of Myosin activity to generate efficient contraction and suggest that the architecture of the actin cytoskeleton and the dynamics of adhesion complexes are important parameters for the emergence of coordinated activity throughout the tissue. PMID:24759936

Swine production.

PubMed

Plain, Ronald L; Lawrence, John D

2003-07-01

The US swine industry is large and growing. The quantity of pork desired by consumers of US pork is growing at the rate of 1.5%/y. New production systems and new technology have enabled production per sow to grow at a rate of 4% annually in recent years. Consequently, the number of sows in the United States is declining. Because productivity growth is outpacing demand growth, the deflated price of hogs and pork is declining. Hog production and prices continue to exhibit strong seasonal and cyclic patterns. Pork production is usually lowest in the summer and highest in the fall. Production and prices tend to follow 4-year patterns. The US swine industry continues to evolve toward fewer and larger producers who rely on contracts for both hog production and marketing. In 2000, over half of the hogs marketed were from approximately 156 firms marketing more than 50,000 head annually. These producers finished 60% of their production in contract facilities. Over 90% of their marketings were under contract or were owned by a packer. These producers expressed a high level of satisfaction with hog production. Both they and their contract growers were satisfied with production contracts. These large producers were satisfied with their marketing contracts and planned to continue them in the future. The hog industry has changed a great deal in the last decade. There is little reason to believe this rapid rate of change will not continue. This swine industry is highly competitive and profit driven. Profit margins are too small to allow producers the luxury of ignoring new technology and innovative production systems. Consequently, hog production will continue its rapid evolution from traditional agriculture to typical industry.

Influence of proprioceptive feedback on the firing rate and recruitment of motoneurons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

De Luca, C. J.; Kline, J. C.

2012-02-01

We investigated the relationships of the firing rate and maximal recruitment threshold of motoneurons recorded during isometric contraction with the number of spindles in individual muscles. At force levels above 10% of maximal voluntary contraction, the firing rate was inversely related to the number of spindles in a muscle, with the slope of the relationship increasing with force. The maximal recruitment threshold of motor units increased linearly with the number of spindles in the muscle. Thus, muscles with a greater number of spindles had lower firing rates and a greater maximal recruitment threshold. These findings may be explained by a mechanical interaction between muscle fibres and adjacent spindles. During low-level (0% to 10%) voluntary contractions, muscle fibres of recruited motor units produce force twitches that activate nearby spindles to respond with an immediate excitatory feedback that reaches maximal level. As the force increases further, the twitches overlap and tend towards tetanization, the muscle fibres shorten, the spindles slacken, their excitatory firings decrease, and the net excitation to the homonymous motoneurons decreases. Motoneurons of muscles with greater number of spindles receive a greater decrease in excitation which reduces their firing rates, increases their maximal recruitment threshold, and changes the motoneuron recruitment distribution.

77 FR 3288 - International Mail Contract

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-01-23

... commitment, term, assignment, number of rate groups, and solicitation of reseller's customers. Id. at 4-6. The Postal Service states that the differences, which include price variations based on updated... functionally equivalent to the baseline GREP contract. It states that the differences do not affect the...

48 CFR 242.771-1 - Scope.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 3 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Scope. 242.771-1 Section 242.771-1 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEFENSE ACQUISITION REGULATIONS SYSTEM, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 242.771-1 Scope...

48 CFR 42.700 - Scope of subpart.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Scope of subpart. 42.700 Section 42.700 Federal Acquisition Regulations System FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 42.700 Scope of subpart. This subpart...

48 CFR 242.771-1 - Scope.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 3 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Scope. 242.771-1 Section 242.771-1 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEFENSE ACQUISITION REGULATIONS SYSTEM, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 242.771-1 Scope...

48 CFR 42.700 - Scope of subpart.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Scope of subpart. 42.700 Section 42.700 Federal Acquisition Regulations System FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 42.700 Scope of subpart. This subpart...

48 CFR 42.700 - Scope of subpart.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Scope of subpart. 42.700 Section 42.700 Federal Acquisition Regulations System FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 42.700 Scope of subpart. This subpart...

48 CFR 42.700 - Scope of subpart.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Scope of subpart. 42.700 Section 42.700 Federal Acquisition Regulations System FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 42.700 Scope of subpart. This subpart...

48 CFR 242.771-1 - Scope.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 3 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Scope. 242.771-1 Section 242.771-1 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEFENSE ACQUISITION REGULATIONS SYSTEM, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 242.771-1 Scope...

48 CFR 242.771-1 - Scope.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 3 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Scope. 242.771-1 Section 242.771-1 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEFENSE ACQUISITION REGULATIONS SYSTEM, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 242.771-1 Scope...

48 CFR 42.700 - Scope of subpart.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Scope of subpart. 42.700 Section 42.700 Federal Acquisition Regulations System FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 42.700 Scope of subpart. This subpart...

48 CFR 242.771-1 - Scope.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 3 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Scope. 242.771-1 Section 242.771-1 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEFENSE ACQUISITION REGULATIONS SYSTEM, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 242.771-1 Scope...

48 CFR 32.503-6 - Suspension or reduction of payments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... GENERAL CONTRACTING REQUIREMENTS CONTRACT FINANCING Progress Payments Based on Costs 32.503-6 Suspension or reduction of payments. (a) General. The Progress Payments clause provides a Government right to reduce or suspend progress payments, or to increase the liquidation rate, under specified conditions...

48 CFR 1542.703-2 - Certificate of indirect costs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 6 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 true Certificate of indirect costs. 1542.703-2 Section 1542.703-2 Federal Acquisition Regulations System ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION Indirect Cost Rates 1542.703-2 Certificate of indirect...

48 CFR 1552.242-72 - Financial administrative contracting officer.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

...) Negotiate advance agreements applicable to treatment of costs and to Independent Research & Development/Bid and Proposal costs. (3) Negotiate changes to interim billing rates and establish final indirect cost... contracting officer. 1552.242-72 Section 1552.242-72 Federal Acquisition Regulations System ENVIRONMENTAL...

48 CFR 1615.404-70 - Profit analysis factors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... indifference to cost control will generally result in a negative weight. (2) Contract cost risk. In assessing..., group size, enrollment demographics and fluctuation, and the probability of conversion and adverse... “loss carry forward basis” of experience-rated group insurance practices, which mitigates contract risk...

48 CFR 1615.404-70 - Profit analysis factors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... indifference to cost control will generally result in a negative weight. (2) Contract cost risk. In assessing..., group size, enrollment demographics and fluctuation, and the probability of conversion and adverse... “loss carry forward basis” of experience-rated group insurance practices, which mitigates contract risk...

48 CFR 1615.404-70 - Profit analysis factors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... indifference to cost control will generally result in a negative weight. (2) Contract cost risk. In assessing..., group size, enrollment demographics and fluctuation, and the probability of conversion and adverse... “loss carry forward basis” of experience-rated group insurance practices, which mitigates contract risk...

INTERNET-BASED SELF-TAILORED DEPOSIT CONTRACTS TO PROMOTE SMOKING REDUCTION AND ABSTINENCE

PubMed Central

Jarvis, Brantley P.; Dallery, Jesse

2018-01-01

Deposit contracting may reduce costs and increase efficacy in contingency management interventions. We evaluated two Internet-based deposit contract arrangements for smoking. In Experiment 1, nine participants deposited self-selected amounts that could be earned back for meeting goals. During treatment, participants were reimbursed for breath samples with less than or equal to 6 parts per million carbon monoxide and met the criterion for 47% of samples compared to 1% during baseline. In Experiment 2, 10 participants’ deposits were matched up to $50. No samples met the criterion during baseline but 41.5% met it during treatment. The average deposit was $82 in Experiment 1 and $49 in Experiment 2. Participants rated the intervention favorably and sample submission rates were high. These experiments suggest that Internet-based self-tailored deposits are acceptable, feasible, and can promote brief reduction and abstinence in some smokers. Future research should investigate individual and intervention factors that affect long-term cessation and uptake of deposit contracts. PMID:28211949

Firing rate modulation of human motor units in different muscles during isometric contraction with various forces.

PubMed

Seki, K; Narusawa, M

1996-05-06

To examine the factors affecting the control of human motor units, rate coding strategies of the motor units were investigated in upper limb and intrinsic hand muscles during voluntary isometric contraction of steady force levels up to 80% of maximal voluntary contraction. Numerous spike trains from single motor units were recorded from the m. first dorsal interosseous (FDI) and the m. biceps brachii (BB) of eight human subjects by means of tungsten micro-electrodes, and the mean firing rate (MFR) was calculated for each subject and inter-individual comparisons made. The MFRs of the FDI were larger than that of the BB at the higher force level, and substantial differences were not found between these muscles at the lower force level. The slope of the linear regression line of MFRs vs. exerted forces for the FDI was more than twice that for the BB. Therefore, isometric force control of the FDI depends more on the rate coding strategy. The difference in rate coding between the FDI and BB motor units may be determined by factors other than muscle fiber composition, because both muscles are known to possess a similar composition of fiber types. Possible mechanisms underlying these characteristics of rate coding strategy are considered in this report.

Payroll contracting for smoking cessation: a worksite pilot study.

PubMed

Jeffery, R W; Pheley, A M; Forster, J L; Kramer, F M; Snell, M K

1988-01-01

Twenty-one men and 38 women participated in a worksite smoking cessation/smoking reduction program that combined financial contracts, organized through payroll deduction, and biweekly group treatment sessions. At the end of the program the smoking cessation rate was 51%, validated by expired air carbon monoxide. Six months later the validated cessation rate was 12%. We conclude that payroll incentives may be effective in helping workers quit smoking and offer suggestions for ways to promote better maintenance of this important behavior change.

Changes in Systolic Blood Pressure during Isometric Contractions of Different Size Muscle Groups.

DTIC Science & Technology

1979-05-01

and 7 bea’s/min in heart rate. The moan aortic pressure and heart rate of three of the four I subiec’s ramained in a steady skate condition during the...mass because of its relative ease of motor control. Even though it is fairly easy to isolate this movement, if stabilized properly, it Istill remains...flexion), fine motor control is required to produce index finger adduction as an isolated i contraction (37,38). with this in mind, one should

Potential Cost Savings and Cost Avoidances Associated With Security Cooperation Training Programs

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-12-01

has long been a staple of U.S. diplomatic policy. Recent events in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Syria have raised questions about both the efficiency and...computed as part of a pricing strategy for an ID/ IQ contract. The pricing was made to ensure that the contractor would make an adequate profit on all...diem rates, the contractors are authorized by contract to raise their prices 3.44% each year. This rate elevation far surpasses the annual military

Physiological response to submaximal isometric contractions of the paravertebral muscles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jensen, B. R.; Jorgensen, K.; Hargens, A. R.; Nielsen, P. K.; Nicolaisen, T.

1999-01-01

STUDY DESIGN: Brief (30-second) isometric trunk extensions at 5%, 20%, 40%, 60%, and 80% of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) and 3 minutes of prolonged trunk extension (20% MVC) in erect position were studied in nine healthy male subjects. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the intercorrelation between intramuscular pressure and tissue oxygenation of the paravertebral muscles during submaximal isometric contractions and further, to evaluate paravertebral electromyogram and intramuscular pressure as indicators of force development. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Local physiologic responses to muscle contraction are incompletely understood. METHODS: Relative oxygenation was monitored with noninvasive near-infrared spectroscopy, intramuscular pressure was measured with a transducer-tipped catheter, and surface electromyogram was monitored at three recording sites. RESULTS: The root mean square amplitudes of the paravertebral electromyogram (L4, left and right; T12, right) and intramuscular pressure measured in the lumbar multifidus muscle at L4 increased with greater force development in a curvilinear manner. A significant decrease in the oxygenation of the lumbar paravertebral muscle in response to muscle contraction was found at an initial contraction level of 20% MVC. This corresponded to a paravertebral intramuscular pressure of 30-40 mm Hg. However, during prolonged trunk extension, no further decrease in tissue oxygenation was found compared with the tissue oxygenation level at the end of the brief contractions, indicating that homeostatic adjustments (mean blood pressure and heart rate) over time were sufficient to maintain paravertebral muscle oxygen levels. CONCLUSION: At a threshold intramuscular pressure of 30-40 mm Hg during muscle contraction, oxygenation in the paravertebral muscles is significantly reduced. The effect of further increase in intramuscular pressure on tissue oxygenation over time may be compensated for by an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. Surface electromyogram amplitudes and intramuscular pressure can be used as indicators of paravertebral muscle force.

Energetic aspects of skeletal muscle contraction: implications of fiber types.

PubMed

Rall, J A

1985-01-01

In this chapter fundamental energetic properties of skeletal muscles as elucidated from isolated muscle preparations are described. Implications of these intrinsic properties for the energetic characterization of different fiber types and for the understanding of locomotion have been considered. Emphasis was placed on the myriad of physical and chemical techniques that can be employed to understand muscle energetics and on the interrelationship of results from different techniques. The anaerobic initial processes which liberate energy during contraction and relaxation are discussed in detail. The high-energy phosphate (approximately P) utilized during contraction and relaxation can be distributed between actomyosin ATPase or cross-bridge cycling (70%) and the Ca2+ ATPase of the sacroplasmic reticulum (30%). Muscle shortening increases the rate of approximately P hydrolysis, and stretching a muscle during contraction suppresses the rate of approximately P hydrolysis. The economy of an isometric contraction is defined as the ratio of isometric mechanical response to energetic cost and is shown to be a fundamental intrinsic parameter describing muscle energetics. Economy of contraction varies across the animal kingdom by over three orders of magnitude and is different in different mammalian fiber types. In mammalian skeletal muscles differences in economy of contraction can be attributed mainly to differences in the specific actomyosin and Ca2+ ATPase of muscles. Furthermore, there is an inverse relationship between economy of contraction and maximum velocity of muscle shortening (Vmax) and maximum power output. This is a fundamental relationship. Muscles cannot be economical at developing and maintaining force and also exhibit rapid shortening. Interestingly, there appears to be a subtle system of unknown nature that modulates the Vmax and economy of contraction. Efficiency of a work-producing contraction is defined and contrasted to the economy of contraction. Unlike economy, maximum efficiency of work production varies little across the animal kingdom. There are difficulties associated with the measurement of maximum efficiency of contraction, and it has yet to be determined unequivocally if the maximum efficiency of contraction varies in different fiber types. The intrinsic properties of force per cross-sectional area, economy, and Vmax determine the basic energetic properties of skeletal muscles. Nonetheless, the mechanics and energetics of skeletal muscles in the body are profoundly influenced by muscle architecture, attachment of muscles to the skeleton, and motor unit organization.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Pathophysiology and Toxicokinetic Studies of Blue-Green Algae Intoxication in the Swine Model

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-11-21

given one hour apart in order to avoid excessive distension of the rumen . The dry weight dosage selected was similar to that which was experimentally...dehydrated. Ruminal atony and mild bloat developed. The three cows that first vent down had low pretreatment blood calcium concentrations of 6.4, 7.5 and...responsive, and weak. The rumen contraction rate slowed from one contraction per minute (predosing) to one contraction every three minutes. The

Analysis of Low Bidding and Change Order Rates for Navy Facilities Construction Contracts.

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-06-01

examine his motives and strategies prior to bidding. Several measures of " level cf competitiveness" are introduced from bidding theory literature that...bidders of fixed-price Government construction contracts have on contract prices when the level FORM, 1473 EDITION OF INOV 6 o IS OBSOLETE S N 0 102...conventional measures of the . level of competition intensity are applied in regression and variance analyses. en, z e ., . , 144 , UNCLASSIFIED 2 SgCURITlY

The Military Construction (MILCON) Program and Privatization: A Comparative Analysis

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-09-01

Government Contract Law , 1988: 13-4). The Davis-Bacon Act is implemented by Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 22.400 and mandates that five provisions be...wages as determined by the Secretary of Labor (Dept. of the AF: Government Contract Law , 1988:13- 4). The Department of Labor wage determinations...Posting 4 - Withholding Payments 5 - Termination for Default 26 (Dept. of the AF: Government Contract Law , 1988: 13-4, 13-5) The residential schedule rates

Selective fatigue of fast motor units after electrically elicited muscle contractions.

PubMed

Hamada, Taku; Kimura, Tetsuya; Moritani, Toshio

2004-10-01

The aim of the present study was to elucidate the electrophysiological manifestations of selective fast motor unit (MU) activation by electrical stimulation (ES) of knee extensor muscles. In six male subjects, test contraction measurement at 40% maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) was performed before and at every 5 min (5, 10, 15 and 20 min) during 20-min low intensity intermittent exercise of either ES or voluntary contractions (VC) at 10% MVC (5-s isometric contraction and 5-s rest cycles). Both isolated intramuscular MU spikes obtained from three sets of bipolar fine-wire electrodes and surface electromyogram (EMG) were simultaneously recorded and were analyzed by means of a computer-aided intramuscular spike amplitude-frequency analysis and frequency power spectral analysis, respectively. Results indicated that mean MU spike amplitude, particularly those MUs with relatively large amplitude, was significantly reduced while those MUs with small spike amplitude increased their firing rate during the 40% MVC test contraction after the ES. This was accompanied by the increased amplitude of surface EMG (rmsEMG). However, no such significant changes in the intramuscular and surface EMGs were observed after VC. These findings indicated differential MU activation patterns in terms of MU recruitment and rate coding characteristics during ES and VC, respectively. Our data strongly suggest the possibility of "an inverse size principle" of MU recruitment during ES.

A mathematical model of airway and pulmonary arteriole smooth muscle.

PubMed

Wang, Inga; Politi, Antonio Z; Tania, Nessy; Bai, Yan; Sanderson, Michael J; Sneyd, James

2008-03-15

Airway hyperresponsiveness is a major characteristic of asthma and is believed to result from the excessive contraction of airway smooth muscle cells (SMCs). However, the identification of the mechanisms responsible for airway hyperresponsiveness is hindered by our limited understanding of how calcium (Ca2+), myosin light chain kinase (MLCK), and myosin light chain phosphatase (MLCP) interact to regulate airway SMC contraction. In this work, we present a modified Hai-Murphy cross-bridge model of SMC contraction that incorporates Ca2+ regulation of MLCK and MLCP. A comparative fit of the model simulations to experimental data predicts 1), that airway and arteriole SMC contraction is initiated by fast activation by Ca2+ of MLCK; 2), that airway SMC, but not arteriole SMC, is inhibited by a slower activation by Ca2+ of MLCP; and 3), that the presence of a contractile agonist inhibits MLCP to enhance the Ca2+ sensitivity of airway and arteriole SMCs. The implication of these findings is that murine airway SMCs exploit a Ca2+-dependent mechanism to favor a default state of relaxation. The rate of SMC relaxation is determined principally by the rate of release of the latch-bridge state, which is predicted to be faster in airway than in arteriole. In addition, the model also predicts that oscillations in calcium concentration, commonly observed during agonist-induced smooth muscle contraction, cause a significantly greater contraction than an elevated steady calcium concentration.

Independence of motor unit recruitment and rate modulation during precision force control.

PubMed

Kamen, G; Du, D C

1999-01-01

The vertebrate motor system chiefly employs motor unit recruitment and rate coding to modulate muscle force output. In this paper, we studied how the recruitment of new motor units altered the firing rate of already-active motor units during precision force production in the first dorsal interosseous muscle. Six healthy adults performed linearly increasing isometric voluntary contractions while motor unit activity and force output were recorded. After motor unit discharges were identified, motor unit firing rates were calculated before and after the instances of new motor unit recruitment. Three procedures were applied to compute motor unit firing rate, including the mean of a fixed number of inter-spike intervals and the constant width weighted Hanning window filter method, as well as a modified boxcar technique. In contrast to previous reports, the analysis of the firing rates of over 200 motor units revealed that reduction of the active firing rates was not a common mechanism used to accommodate the twitch force produced by the recruitment of a new motor unit. Similarly, during de-recruitment there was no tendency for motor unit firing rates to increase immediately following the cessation of activity in other motor units. Considerable consistency in recruitment behavior was observed during repeated contractions. However, firing rates during repeated contractions demonstrated considerably more fluctuation. It is concluded that the neuromuscular system does not use short-term preferential motor unit disfacilitation to effect precise regulation of muscular force output.

Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis: Association between Left Atrial Function Using Tissue Tracking from Cine MR Imaging and Myocardial Fibrosis

PubMed Central

Imai, Masamichi; Ambale Venkatesh, Bharath; Samiei, Sanaz; Donekal, Sirisha; Habibi, Mohammadali; Armstrong, Anderson C.; Heckbert, Susan R.; Wu, Colin O.; Bluemke, David A.

2014-01-01

Purpose To investigate the association between left atrial (LAleft atrium) function and left ventricular myocardial fibrosis using cardiac magnetic resonance (MR) imaging in a multi-ethnic population. Materials and Methods For this HIPAA-compliant study, the institutional review board at each participating center approved the study protocol, and all participants provided informed consent. Of 2839 participants who had undergone cardiac MR in 2010–2012, 143 participants with myocardial scar determined with late gadolinium enhancement and 286 age-, sex-, and ethnicity-matched control participants were identified. LAleft atrium volume, strain, and strain rate were analyzed by using multimodality tissue tracking from cine MR imaging. T1 mapping was applied to assess diffuse myocardial fibrosis. The association between LAleft atrium parameters and myocardial fibrosis was evaluated with the Student t test and multivariable regression analysis. Results The scar group had significantly higher minimum LAleft atrium volume than the control group (mean, 22.0 ± 10.5 [standard deviation] vs 19.0 ± 7.8, P = .002) and lower LAleft atrium ejection fraction (45.9 ± 10.7 vs 51.3 ± 8.7, P < .001), maximal LAleft atrium strain (Smaxmaximum LA strain) (25.4 ± 10.7 vs 30.6 ± 10.6, P < .001) and maximum LAleft atrium strain rate (SRmaxmaximum LA strain rate) (1.08 ± 0.45 vs 1.29 ± 0.51, P < .001), and lower absolute LAleft atrium strain rate at early diastolic peak (SRELA strain rate at early diastolic peak) (−0.77 ± 0.42 vs −1.01 ± 0.48, P < .001) and LAleft atrium strain rate at atrial contraction peak (SRALA strain rate at atrial contraction peak) (−1.50 ± 0.62 vs −1.78 ± 0.69, P < .001) than the control group. T1 time 12 minutes after contrast material injection was significantly associated with Smaxmaximum LA strain (β coefficient = 0.043, P = .013), SRmaxmaximum LA strain rate (β coefficient = 0.0025, P = .001), SRELA strain rate at early diastolic peak (β coefficient = −0.0016, P = .027), and SRALA strain rate at atrial contraction peakLA strain rate at atrial contraction peak (β coefficient −0.0028, P = .01) in the regression model. T1 time 25 minutes after contrast material injection was significantly associated with SRmaxmaximum LA strain rate (β coefficient = 0.0019, P = .016) and SRALA strain rate at atrial contraction peak (β coefficient = −0.0022, P = .034). Conclusion Reduced LAleft atrium regional and global function are related to both replacement and diffuse myocardial fibrosis processes. Clinical trial registration no. NCT00005487 © RSNA, 2014 Online supplemental material is available for this article. PMID:25019562

48 CFR 52.216-7 - Allowable Cost and Payment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... last disclosure of internal audit reports to the Government. (J) Annual internal audit plan of...-contract cost allowability limitations, and billing limitations. (v) The Contractor shall update the billings on all contracts to reflect the final settled rates and update the schedule of cumulative direct...

76 FR 47095 - 2012 Rates for Pilotage on the Great Lakes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-08-04

..., and we contract with independent accountants to assist in that review. The last full ratemaking... independent accountant's report on pilot association financial information was incomplete and inadequate, and could not be used for ratemaking. The resulting need to contract with a new independent accountant...

12 CFR 1267.1 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... means generally a financial contract the value of which is derived from the values of one or more referenced assets, rates, or indices of asset values, or credit-related events. Derivative contracts include... removing the definitions for “Investment grade” and “NRSRO” and adding in correct alphabetical order a...

Ultimate pier and contraction scour prediction in cohesive soils at selected bridges in Illinois.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-09-01

The Scour Rate In COhesive Soils-Erosion Function Apparatus (SRICOS-EFA) method includes an ultimate scour prediction that is : the equilibrium maximum pier and contraction scour of cohesive soils over time. The purpose of this report is to present t...

48 CFR 32.407 - Interest.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... provided in paragraph (d) below, the contracting officer shall charge interest on the daily unliquidated... computed at the end of each month on the daily unliquidated balance of advance payments at the applicable daily interest rate. (c) Interest shall be required on contracts that are for acquisition, at cost, of...

48 CFR 32.407 - Interest.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... provided in paragraph (d) below, the contracting officer shall charge interest on the daily unliquidated... computed at the end of each month on the daily unliquidated balance of advance payments at the applicable daily interest rate. (c) Interest shall be required on contracts that are for acquisition, at cost, of...

48 CFR 1609.7101-1 - Community-rated carrier incentive performance elements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... “Enrollment Instructions” in the FEHB Supplemental Literature Guidelines in the FEHB contract. The contracting officer will evaluate this item based on the carrier's ability to accept electronic data transmission from the OPM designated electronic enrollment system and issue ID cards timely. (ii) Enrollment...

Novel Roles for Kv7 Channels in Shaping Histamine-Induced Contractions and Bradykinin-Dependent Relaxations in Pig Coronary Arteries

PubMed Central

Chen, Xingjuan; Li, Wennan; Hiett, S. Christopher; Obukhov, Alexander G.

2016-01-01

Voltage-gated Kv7 channels are inhibited by agonists of Gq-protein-coupled receptors, such as histamine. Recent works have provided evidence that inhibition of vascular Kv7 channels may trigger vessel contractions. In this study, we investigated how Kv7 activity modulates the histamine-induced contractions in “healthy” and metabolic syndrome (MetS) pig right coronary arteries (CAs). We performed isometric tension and immunohistochemical studies with domestic, lean Ossabaw, and MetS Ossabaw pig CAs. We found that neither the Kv7.2/Kv7.4/Kv7.5 activator ML213 nor the general Kv7 inhibitor XE991 altered the tension of CA rings under preload, indicating that vascular Kv7 channels are likely inactive in the preloaded rings. Conversely, ML213 potently dilated histamine-pre-contracted CAs, suggesting that Kv7 channels are activated during histamine applications and yet partially inhibited by histamine. Immunohistochemistry analysis revealed strong Kv7.4 immunostaining in the medial and intimal layers of the CA wall, whereas Kv7.5 immunostaining intensity was strong in the intimal but weak in the medial layers. The medial Kv7 immunostaining was significantly weaker in MetS Ossabaw CAs as compared to lean Ossabaw or domestic CAs. Consistently, histamine-pre-contracted MetS Ossabaw CAs exhibited attenuated ML213-dependent dilations. In domestic pig CAs, where medial Kv7 immunostaining intensity was stronger, histamine-induced contractions spontaneously decayed to ~31% of the peak amplitude within 4 minutes. Oppositely, in Ossabaw CAs, where Kv7 immunostaining intensity was weaker, the histamine-induced contractions were more sustained. XE991 pretreatment significantly slowed the decay rate of histamine-induced contractions in domestic CAs, supporting the hypothesis that increased Kv7 activity correlates with a faster rate of histamine-induced contraction decay. Alternatively, XE991 significantly decreased the amplitude of bradykinin-dependent dilations in pre-contracted CAs. We propose that in CAs, a decreased expression or a loss of function of Kv7 channels may lead to sustained histamine-induced contractions and reduced endothelium-dependent relaxation, both risk factors for coronary spasm. PMID:26844882

Organization of the motor-unit pool for different directions of isometric contraction of the first dorsal interosseous muscle.

PubMed

Lei, Yuming; Suresh, Nina L; Rymer, William Z; Hu, Xiaogang

2018-01-01

Muscle force generation involves recruitment and firing rate modulation of motor units (MUs). The control of MUs in producing multidirectional forces remains unclear. We studied MU recruitment and firing properties, recorded from the first dorsal interosseous muscle, for 3 different directions of contraction: abduction; abduction/flexion combination; and flexion. MUs were recruited systematically at higher threshold force during flexion. Larger MUs were recruited and firing rates of MUs were lower during abduction. There was an orderly recruitment of MUs according to MU size regardless of contraction direction, obeying the "size principle." Firing rates of earlier-recruited MUs were consistently higher than later-recruited MUs, affirming the "onion-skin" property. Our findings suggest that the size principle and onion-skin organization together provide a general description of MU recruitment patterns and firing properties. The directional alternations of MU control properties likely reflect changes in neural drive to the muscle. Muscle Nerve 57: E85-E93, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Microfluidic chest cavities reveal that transmural pressure controls the rate of lung development.

PubMed

Nelson, Celeste M; Gleghorn, Jason P; Pang, Mei-Fong; Jaslove, Jacob M; Goodwin, Katharine; Varner, Victor D; Miller, Erin; Radisky, Derek C; Stone, Howard A

2017-12-01

Mechanical forces are increasingly recognized to regulate morphogenesis, but how this is accomplished in the context of the multiple tissue types present within a developing organ remains unclear. Here, we use bioengineered 'microfluidic chest cavities' to precisely control the mechanical environment of the fetal lung. We show that transmural pressure controls airway branching morphogenesis, the frequency of airway smooth muscle contraction, and the rate of developmental maturation of the lungs, as assessed by transcriptional analyses. Time-lapse imaging reveals that branching events are synchronized across distant locations within the lung, and are preceded by long-duration waves of airway smooth muscle contraction. Higher transmural pressure decreases the interval between systemic smooth muscle contractions and increases the rate of morphogenesis of the airway epithelium. These data reveal that the mechanical properties of the microenvironment instruct crosstalk between different tissues to control the development of the embryonic lung. © 2017. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.

Quaternary Expression of Northern Great Valley Faults and Folds: Accommodating North-South Contraction between the Sierran Microplate and Oregon Block

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Angster, S.; Sawyer, T. L.; Wesnousky, S. G.

2015-12-01

The Northern California Shear Zone accommodates North American intraplate right-lateral transpressional shear driven by the relative motion of the northwest translating Sierran microplate. Within this zone, between the latitudes of 400 and 420, 1 - 4 mm/yr of north-south geodetic contraction is observed and for the most part remains geologically unaccounted for. We are investigating the Quaternary expression of transpressional shear localized at the northern end of the Sierra Nevada and Great Valley to evaluate both the recency and rates of deformation across structures that may be accommodating the contractional deformation suggested in geodetic studies. The northeast trending Inks Creek fold belt north of Red Bluff, CA consists of anticline-syncline pairs and dome structures that appear optimally oriented to accommodate northwest crustal shortening. The folds plunge to the southwest where they are incised and deflect the course of the Sacramento River. We will present preliminary geomorphic maps of fluvial terraces and drainage patterns associated with the folds constructed with standard field mapping techniques and aided by airborne LiDAR. It is anticipated that dating of deformed terrace strandlines with radiocarbon and OSL techniques holds the potential to quantify the lateral and vertical propagation rates of fold growth, as well as, constrain rates of regional contractional deformation.

[Contraction (retraction) of blood clots in patients with ischemic stroke].

PubMed

Peshkova, A D; Saikhunov, M V; Demin, T V; Lozhkin, A P; Panasyuk, M V; Litvinov, R I; Khasanova, D R

2016-01-01

To study a possible pathogenetic role of the blood clot contraction and its disturbances in the acute stage of ischemic stroke (IS). Using a new instrumental technique to study the dynamics of clot contraction in vitro, the authors have determined quantitative parameters of clot contraction (the extent and rate of contraction, duration of the lag-period) in the blood of 85 patients with acute IS. The contractile activity of blood clots was substantially reduced compared to the blood of healthy subjects. Correlations between hemostatic and contractile parameters suggest that the reduced clot contraction in stroke is due to the lower platelet count and impaired platelet functionality, higher levels of fibrinogen and antithrombin III as well as higher hematocrit and hemoglobin contents, leukocytosis, and changes in the biochemical blood composition. The results show that the reduced ability of clots may be a novel pathogenic mechanism that aggravates the course and outcomes of IS.

Customer relationship management in the contract pharmaceutical industry: an exploratory study for measuring success.

PubMed

Kros, John F; Nadler, Scott; Molis, Justin

2007-01-01

Managing customer relationships is a very important issue in business-to-business markets. This research investigates the growing number of available resources defining Customer Relationship Management (CRM) efforts, and how they are being applied within the Contract Pharmaceutical Manufacturing industry. Exploratory study results using face-to-face and telephone questionnaires based on four criteria for rating a company's CRM efforts are presented. Data was collected from large Contract Pharmaceutical Manufacturing companies in the US market. The results and conclusions are discussed relating how the Contract Pharmaceutical Manufacturing industry is implementing CRM including some potential steps to take when considering a CRM initiative.

Contraction of an air disk caught between two different liquids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thoraval, M.-J.; Thoroddsen, S. T.

2013-12-01

When a drop impacts a pool of liquid it entraps a thin disk of air under its center. This disk contracts rapidly into a bubble to minimize surface energy. Herein we use ultra-high-speed imaging to measure the contraction speed of this disk when the drop and pool are of different liquids. For miscible liquids the contraction rate is governed by the weaker of the two surface tensions. Some undulations are observed on the edge of the disk for a water drop impacting a pool of water, but not on a pool of lower surface tension. Similar results are observed for a pair of immiscible liquids.

Matching of postcontraction perfusion to oxygen consumption across submaximal contraction intensities in exercising humans.

PubMed

Buck, Amanda K W; Elder, Christopher P; Donahue, Manus J; Damon, Bruce M

2015-08-01

Studying the magnitude and kinetics of blood flow, oxygen extraction, and oxygen consumption at exercise onset and during the recovery from exercise can lead to insights into both the normal control of metabolism and blood flow and the disturbances to these processes in metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. The purpose of this study was to examine the on- and off-kinetics for oxygen delivery, extraction, and consumption as functions of submaximal contraction intensity. Eight healthy subjects performed four 1-min isometric dorsiflexion contractions, with two at 20% MVC and two at 40% MVC. During one contraction at each intensity, relative perfusion changes were measured by using arterial spin labeling, and the deoxyhemoglobin percentage (%HHb) was estimated using the spin- and gradient-echo sequence and a previously published empirical calibration. For the whole group, the mean perfusion did not increase during contraction. The %HHb increased from ∼28 to 38% during contractions of each intensity, with kinetics well described by an exponential function and mean response times (MRTs) of 22.7 and 21.6 s for 20 and 40% MVC, respectively. Following contraction, perfusion increased ∼2.5-fold. The %HHb, oxygen consumption, and perfusion returned to precontraction levels with MRTs of 27.5, 46.4, and 50.0 s, respectively (20% MVC), and 29.2, 75.3, and 86.0 s, respectively (40% MVC). These data demonstrate in human subjects the varied recovery rates of perfusion and oxygen consumption, along with the similar rates of %HHb recovery, across these exercise intensities. Copyright © 2015 the American Physiological Society.

23 CFR 636.304 - What process may be used to rate and score proposals?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... ENGINEERING AND TRAFFIC OPERATIONS DESIGN-BUILD CONTRACTING Proposal Evaluation Factors § 636.304 What process... any rating method or combination of methods including color or adjectival ratings, numerical weights...

Motor unit firing rates and synchronisation affect the fractal dimension of simulated surface electromyogram during isometric/isotonic contraction of vastus lateralis muscle.

PubMed

Mesin, Luca; Dardanello, Davide; Rainoldi, Alberto; Boccia, Gennaro

2016-12-01

During fatiguing contractions, many adjustments in motor units behaviour occur: decrease in muscle fibre conduction velocity; increase in motor units synchronisation; modulation of motor units firing rate; increase in variability of motor units inter-spike interval. We simulated the influence of all these adjustments on synthetic EMG signals in isometric/isotonic conditions. The fractal dimension of the EMG signal was found mainly influenced by motor units firing behaviour, being affected by both firing rate and synchronisation level, and least affected by muscle fibre conduction velocity. None of the calculated EMG indices was able to discriminate between firing rate and motor units synchronisation. Copyright © 2016 IPEM. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

48 CFR 48.104-1 - Determining sharing period.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

..., based on planning and programming or production documentation at the time the VECP is accepted. The.... (c) For engineering-development contracts and contracts containing low-rate-initial-production or early production units, the end of the sharing period is based not on a calendar date, but on acceptance...

48 CFR 48.104-1 - Determining sharing period.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

..., based on planning and programming or production documentation at the time the VECP is accepted. The.... (c) For engineering-development contracts and contracts containing low-rate-initial-production or early production units, the end of the sharing period is based not on a calendar date, but on acceptance...

48 CFR 48.104-1 - Determining sharing period.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

..., based on planning and programming or production documentation at the time the VECP is accepted. The.... (c) For engineering-development contracts and contracts containing low-rate-initial-production or early production units, the end of the sharing period is based not on a calendar date, but on acceptance...

48 CFR 48.104-1 - Determining sharing period.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

..., based on planning and programming or production documentation at the time the VECP is accepted. The.... (c) For engineering-development contracts and contracts containing low-rate-initial-production or early production units, the end of the sharing period is based not on a calendar date, but on acceptance...

41 CFR 302-7.110 - Is there a reimbursement limit?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 4 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Is there a reimbursement limit? 302-7.110 Section 302-7.110 Public Contracts and Property Management Federal Travel Regulation... Is there a reimbursement limit? Yes, reimbursement must not exceed the rates published in the...

48 CFR 42.705-4 - State and local governments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false State and local... CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 42.705-4 State and local governments. OMB Circular No. A-87 concerning cost principles for state and local governments (see subpart 31...

48 CFR 42.703-2 - Certificate of indirect costs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

...) Based on audited historical data or other available data as long as unallowable costs are excluded; and... costs. 42.703-2 Section 42.703-2 Federal Acquisition Regulations System FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 42.703-2 Certificate of...

48 CFR 42.703-1 - Policy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Policy. 42.703-1 Section... CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 42.703-1 Policy. (a) A single agency (see 42... indirect costs under cost-reimbursement contracts and in determining progress payments under fixed-price...

41 CFR 105-50.202-6 - Communications services.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Communications services. 105-50.202-6 Section 105-50.202-6 Public Contracts and Property Management Federal Property Management... § 105-50.202-6 Communications services. GSA will continue to make its bulk rate circuit ordering...

48 CFR 942.705-4 - State and local governments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 5 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false State and local governments. 942.705-4 Section 942.705-4 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 942.705-4 State and local...

48 CFR 642.703-2 - Certificate of indirect costs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Certificate of indirect costs. 642.703-2 Section 642.703-2 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEPARTMENT OF STATE CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 642.703-2 Certificate of indirect...

48 CFR 9904.405-60 - Illustrations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... administrative (G&A) expense. In the contractor's proposals for final Segment G&A rates (including corporate home... responsibilities on which his salary was based, no part of the official's salary would be required to be identified... the contract. The contracting officer issues a written decision which supports the auditor's position...

48 CFR 9904.405-60 - Illustrations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... administrative (G&A) expense. In the contractor's proposals for final Segment G&A rates (including corporate home... responsibilities on which his salary was based, no part of the official's salary would be required to be identified... the contract. The contracting officer issues a written decision which supports the auditor's position...

48 CFR 9904.405-60 - Illustrations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... administrative (G&A) expense. In the contractor's proposals for final Segment G&A rates (including corporate home... responsibilities on which his salary was based, no part of the official's salary would be required to be identified... the contract. The contracting officer issues a written decision which supports the auditor's position...

Differences in self-rated health by employment contract and household structure among Japanese employees: a nationwide cross-sectional study.

PubMed

Kachi, Yuko; Inoue, Mariko; Nishikitani, Mariko; Yano, Eiji

2014-01-01

The aim of this study was to examine whether the association between employment contract and self-rated health differs by household structure in a representative sample of employees in Japan. The participants were 81,441 male and 64,471 female employees aged 18-59 years who had participated in the 2010 Comprehensive Survey of Living Conditions. We assessed the interactive effect of employment contract (permanent or precarious) and household structure (couple only, couple with children, single parent, single person, or other multi-person) on fair/poor health, adjusting for covariates by using logistic regression. We then calculated the relative poverty rate by employment contract and household structure. The interaction effect was significant for women (p<0.001) but not for men (p=0.413). A higher percentage of female precarious workers who lived in single-parent households (20.2%) reported fair/poor health compared with those in other types of households (10.4-13.2%), although the prevalence of fair/poor health did not differ substantially by household structure among female permanent workers. The relative poverty rates of female precarious workers who lived in single-parent households were higher compared with those of other female workers. Our results suggest that female precarious workers are not a homogeneous group and that those living in single-parent households suffer from poor health due to low income and insufficient coverage by insurance firms and family-based safety nets.

Ventilation rates and activity levels of juvenile jumbo squid under metabolic suppression in the oxygen minimum zone.

PubMed

Trübenbach, Katja; Pegado, Maria R; Seibel, Brad A; Rosa, Rui

2013-02-01

The Humboldt (jumbo) squid, Dosidicus gigas, is a part-time resident of the permanent oxygen minimum zone (OMZ) in the Eastern Tropical Pacific and, thereby, it encounters oxygen levels below its critical oxygen partial pressure. To better understand the ventilatory mechanisms that accompany the process of metabolic suppression in these top oceanic predators, we exposed juvenile D. gigas to the oxygen levels found in the OMZ (1% O(2), 1 kPa, 10 °C) and measured metabolic rate, activity cycling patterns, swimming mode, escape jet (burst) frequency, mantle contraction frequency and strength, stroke volume and oxygen extraction efficiency. In normoxia, metabolic rate varied between 14 and 29 μmol O(2) g(-1) wet mass h(-1), depending on the level of activity. The mantle contraction frequency and strength were linearly correlated and increased significantly with activity level. Additionally, an increase in stroke volume and ventilatory volume per minute was observed, followed by a mantle hyperinflation process during high activity periods. Squid metabolic rate dropped more than 75% during exposure to hypoxia. Maximum metabolic rate was not achieved under such conditions and the metabolic scope was significantly decreased. Hypoxia changed the relationship between mantle contraction strength and frequency from linear to polynomial with increasing activity, indicating that, under hypoxic conditions, the jumbo squid primarily increases the strength of mantle contraction and does not regulate its frequency. Under hypoxia, jumbo squid also showed a larger inflation period (reduced contraction frequency) and decreased relaxed mantle diameter (shortened diffusion pathway), which optimize oxygen extraction efficiency (up to 82%/34%, without/with consideration of 60% potential skin respiration). Additionally, they breathe 'deeply', with more powerful contractions and enhanced stroke volume. This deep-breathing behavior allows them to display a stable ventilatory volume per minute, and explains the maintenance of the squid's cycling activity under such O(2) conditions. During hypoxia, the respiratory cycles were shorter in length but increased in frequency. This was accompanied by an increase in the number of escape jets during active periods and a faster switch between swimming modes. In late hypoxia (onset ~170 ± 10 min), all the ventilatory processes were significantly reduced and followed by a lethargic state, a behavior that seems closely associated with the process of metabolic suppression and enables the squid to extend its residence time in the OMZ.

48 CFR 342.705 - Final indirect cost rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

...) The Division of Financial Advisory Services, NIH, shall establish indirect cost rates, fringe benefit... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 4 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Final indirect cost rates... MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION Indirect Cost Rates 342.705 Final indirect cost rates. (a) The Division of...

48 CFR 342.705 - Final indirect cost rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

...) The Division of Financial Advisory Services, NIH, shall establish indirect cost rates, fringe benefit... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 4 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Final indirect cost rates... MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION Indirect Cost Rates 342.705 Final indirect cost rates. (a) The Division of...

48 CFR 342.705 - Final indirect cost rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

...) The Division of Financial Advisory Services, NIH, shall establish indirect cost rates, fringe benefit... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Final indirect cost rates... MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION Indirect Cost Rates 342.705 Final indirect cost rates. (a) The Division of...

48 CFR 342.705 - Final indirect cost rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

...) The Division of Financial Advisory Services, NIH, shall establish indirect cost rates, fringe benefit... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 4 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Final indirect cost rates... MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION Indirect Cost Rates 342.705 Final indirect cost rates. (a) The Division of...

48 CFR 342.705 - Final indirect cost rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

...) The Division of Financial Advisory Services, NIH, shall establish indirect cost rates, fringe benefit... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Final indirect cost rates... MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION Indirect Cost Rates 342.705 Final indirect cost rates. (a) The Division of...

Examination of motor unit control properties of the vastus lateralis in an individual that had acute paralytic poliomyelitis.

PubMed

Herda, Trent J; Cooper, Michael A

2014-08-01

The purpose of the study was to examine motor unit (MU) recruitment and derecruitment thresholds and firing rates of the vastus lateralis between 2 healthy (HE) individuals (women, ages = 19 and 23 years) and 1 individual (man, age = 22 years) who acquired acute poliomyelitis (PO). Each participant performed submaximal isometric trapezoid muscle actions of the leg extensors from 20% to 90% maximal voluntary contraction in 10% increments with a sensor placed on the vastus lateralis to record electromyography. Electromyographic signals were decomposed into the firing events of single MUs. Linear regressions were performed on the firing rates at recruitment and peak firing rates versus the recruitment thresholds and the derecruitment versus recruitment thresholds. In addition, data were pooled together from all contractions to examine differences between PO and HE with independent samples t-tests calculated for firing rates at recruitment, peak firing rates, recruitment thresholds, derecruitment thresholds, and duration of MU activity. The results demonstrated systematic differences in MU control strategies between the PO and HE. There were differences in the recruitment thresholds (P < 0.001; HE = 30.5% ± 22.2% maximal voluntary contraction; PO = 14.5% ± 5.0% maximal voluntary contraction), firing rates at recruitment (P < 0.001; HE = 7.4 ± 2.5 pulses per second; PO = 6.2 ± 1.7 pulses per second) and peak firing rates across the force spectrum (P = 0.001; HE = 22.2 ± 5.8 pulses per second; PO = 20.3 ± 2.3 pulses per second), altered derecruitment versus recruitment relationships (HE slope = 0.82 derec/rec, PO slope = 1.78 derec/rec), and duration of MU activity (P < 0.001) between the PO (18.6 ± 2.4 seconds) and HE (15.3 ± 3.0 seconds). Future research should examine the possible differences in MU behavior between PO and HE as a result of fatigue to further elucidate disease-related changes in MU properties.

Force deficits and breakage rates after single lengthening contractions of single fast fibers from unconditioned and conditioned muscles of young and old rats.

PubMed

Lynch, Gordon S; Faulkner, John A; Brooks, Susan V

2008-07-01

The deficit in force generation is a measure of the magnitude of damage to sarcomeres caused by lengthening contractions of either single fibers or whole muscles. In addition, permeabilized single fibers may suffer breakages. Our goal was to understand the interaction between breakages and force deficits in "young" and "old" permeabilized single fibers from control muscles of young and old rats and "conditioned" fibers from muscles that completed a 6-wk program of in vivo lengthening contractions. Following single lengthening contractions of old-control fibers compared with young-control fibers, the twofold greater force deficits at a 10% strain support the concept of an age-related increase in the susceptibility of fibers to mechanical damage. In addition, the much higher breakage rates for old fibers at all strains tested indicate an increase with aging in the number of fibers at risk of being severely injured during any given stretch. Following the 6-wk program of lengthening contractions, young-conditioned fibers and old-conditioned fibers were not different with respect to force deficit or the frequency of breakages. A potential mechanism for the increased resistance to stretch-induced damage of old-conditioned fibers is that, through intracellular damage and subsequent degeneration and regeneration, weaker sarcomeres were replaced by stronger sarcomeres. These data indicate that, despite the association of high fiber breakage rates and large force deficits with aging, the detrimental characteristics of old fibers were improved by a conditioning program that altered both sarcomeric characteristics as well as the overall structural integrity of the fibers.

[Health status comparative analysis of the emercom of Russia Federal fire service employees and contract servicemen in the Russian Army].

PubMed

Koteev, P K; Kireev, S G; Golovinova, V Iu

2013-08-01

Results of health status comparative analysis of the emercom of Russia Federal fire service employees and contract servicemen in the Russian Army are submitted as following. The emercom of russia firemen's average annual rate of primary morbidity is 459,1, that of labor losses' days 8430,8, of disability 0,9, and mortality cases 0,7. The russian army contract servicemen's average annual rate of primary morbidity during the covered period comes to 410,3, that of discharges 7,4, and mortality cases 1,3. The results of comparative analysis show that the rate of contract servicemen's primary morbidity is lower than that of emercom of Russia firemen below 10.6% (p < 0.001), whereas their discharge level is higher above 87% (p < 0.001). In the course of comparison of the emercom of Russia Federal fire service employees' and the Russian Army contract servicemen's primary morbidity structure it was revealed that the indexes of the diseases of respiratory system, traumas and poisoning are higher among the first ones. On the contrary, their indexes were lower in the sphere of circulatory system, skin and hypodermic cellulose diseases. The indexes of circulatory system diseases in the disability (discharge level) structure of the emercom of Russia Federal fire service employees were higher than those of other diseases. It is expedient to use the results of this research in forming of priority assignments and conducting of a complex of curative and prophylactic measures organized by the medical service of the emercom of Russia.

The Role of Parvalbumin, Sarcoplasmatic Reticulum Calcium Pump Rate, Rates of Cross-Bridge Dynamics, and Ryanodine Receptor Calcium Current on Peripheral Muscle Fatigue: A Simulation Study

PubMed Central

Neumann, Verena

2016-01-01

A biophysical model of the excitation-contraction pathway, which has previously been validated for slow-twitch and fast-twitch skeletal muscles, is employed to investigate key biophysical processes leading to peripheral muscle fatigue. Special emphasis hereby is on investigating how the model's original parameter sets can be interpolated such that realistic behaviour with respect to contraction time and fatigue progression can be obtained for a continuous distribution of the model's parameters across the muscle units, as found for the functional properties of muscles. The parameters are divided into 5 groups describing (i) the sarcoplasmatic reticulum calcium pump rate, (ii) the cross-bridge dynamics rates, (iii) the ryanodine receptor calcium current, (iv) the rates of binding of magnesium and calcium ions to parvalbumin and corresponding dissociations, and (v) the remaining processes. The simulations reveal that the first two parameter groups are sensitive to contraction time but not fatigue, the third parameter group affects both considered properties, and the fourth parameter group is only sensitive to fatigue progression. Hence, within the scope of the underlying model, further experimental studies should investigate parvalbumin dynamics and the ryanodine receptor calcium current to enhance the understanding of peripheral muscle fatigue. PMID:27980606

Influence of proprioceptive feedback on the firing rate and recruitment of motoneurons

PubMed Central

De Luca, C J; Kline, J C

2012-01-01

We investigated the relationships of the firing rate and maximal recruitment threshold of motoneurons recorded during isometric contraction with the number of spindles in individual muscles. At force levels above 10% of maximal voluntary contraction, the firing rate was inversely related to the number of spindles in a muscle, with the slope of the relationship increasing with force. The maximal recruitment threshold of motor units increased linearly with the number of spindles in the muscle. Thus, muscles with a greater number of spindles had lower firing rates and a greater maximal recruitment threshold. These findings may be explained by a mechanical interaction between muscle fibres and adjacent spindles. During low-level (0 to 10%) voluntary contractions, muscle fibres of recruited motor units produce force-twitches that activate nearby spindles to respond with an immediate excitatory feedback that reaches maximal level. As the force increases further, the twitches overlap and tend towards tetanization, the muscle fibres shorten, the spindles slacken, their excitatory firings decrease, and the net excitation to the homonymous motoneurons decreases. Motoneurons of muscles with greater number of spindles receive a greater decrease in excitation which reduces their firing rates, increases their maximal recruitment threshold, and changes the motoneuron recruitment distribution. PMID:22183300

Rain rate instrument for deployment at sea, phase 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Steele, Jimmy W.

1992-01-01

This report describes, in detail, the SBIR Phase 2 contracting effort provided for by NASA Contract Number NAS8-38481 in which a prototype Rain Rate Sensor was developed. FWG Model RP101A is a fully functional rain rate and droplet size analyzing instrument. The RP101A is a fully functional rain rate and droplet size analyzing instrument. The RP101A consists of a fiber optic probe containing a 32-fiber array connected to an electronic signal processor. When interfaced to an IBM compatible personal computer and configured with appropriate software, the RP101A is capable of measuring rain rates and particles ranging in size from around 300 microns up to 6 to 7 millimeters. FWG Associates, Inc. intends to develop a production model from the prototype and continue the effort under NASA's SBIR Phase 3 program.

48 CFR 942.704 - Billing rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 5 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Billing rates. 942.704... ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 942.704 Billing rates. (b) When the contracting officer or auditor responsible for establishing billing rates, in accordance with 48 CFR 42.704, has not established...

48 CFR 942.704 - Billing rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 5 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Billing rates. 942.704... ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 942.704 Billing rates. (b) When the contracting officer or auditor responsible for establishing billing rates, in accordance with 48 CFR 42.704, has not established...

48 CFR 942.704 - Billing rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 5 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Billing rates. 942.704... ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Indirect Cost Rates 942.704 Billing rates. (b) When the contracting officer or auditor responsible for establishing billing rates, in accordance with 48 CFR 42.704, has not established...

48 CFR 47.104-1 - Government rate tender procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Government rate tender... CONTRACT MANAGEMENT TRANSPORTATION General 47.104-1 Government rate tender procedures. (a) 49 U.S.C. 10721 and 13712 rates are published in Government rate tenders and apply to shipments moving for the account...

78 FR 62627 - Sam Rayburn Dam Rate

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-10-22

..., Wholesale Rates for Hydro Power and Energy Sold to Sam Rayburn Dam Electric Cooperative, Inc. (Contract No... Schedule SRD-08, Wholesale Rates for Hydro Power and Energy Sold to Sam Rayburn Dam Electric Cooperative... ADMINISTRATION RATE SCHEDULE SRD-13 \\1\\ WHOLESALE RATES FOR HYDRO POWER AND ENERGY SOLD TO SAM RAYBURN DAM...

48 CFR 47.104-1 - Government rate tender procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Government rate tender... CONTRACT MANAGEMENT TRANSPORTATION General 47.104-1 Government rate tender procedures. (a) 49 U.S.C. 10721 and 13712 rates are published in Government rate tenders and apply to shipments moving for the account...

Aspects of research and development contract terms in the bio/pharmaceutical sector.

PubMed

Banerjee, Tannista

2012-01-01

The cost of new drug development is increasing every year. Pharmaceutical companies use R&D joint ventures, mergers, and outsource different stages of pharmaceutical R&D activities for a faster and cost minimizing method of innovation. Pharmaceutical companies outsource R&D activities to independent small biotech or pharmaceutical companies that specialize in different stages of pharmaceutical R&D. This chapter examines the determinants of the payment structure of research contracts between large bio/pharmaceutical companies and specialized research firms. Determinants of R&D contracts are analyzed using detailed R&D contract data between bio/pharmaceutical companies and independent research firms for 10 years. A multinomial logit model is used in order to understand the determinants of three different types of contracts; royalty contracts, fixed payment contracts, and the mixed contracts. Under uncertainty, the likelihood of a royalty contract rises for the early stages of the research and with the patent stock of the research firm. It is more likely to observe both royalty and fixed payment if the pharmaceutical client has past contracts with the same research firm. The results also suggest that if Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is more stringent in any disease area in reviewing the new drug application, then the likelihood of signing pure royalty contract decreases. Understanding the nature of R&D contracts and the effects of FDA's behavior on the pharmaceutical R&D contract is important because these contracts not only affect the cost of new drug invention but also the quality and the rate of invention. VALUE: Results are useful for both the pharmaceutical companies and the economic/business researchers.

Kinetics and mechanics of clot contraction are governed by the molecular and cellular composition of the blood.

PubMed

Tutwiler, Valerie; Litvinov, Rustem I; Lozhkin, Andrey P; Peshkova, Alina D; Lebedeva, Tatiana; Ataullakhanov, Fazoil I; Spiller, Kara L; Cines, Douglas B; Weisel, John W

2016-01-07

Platelet-driven blood clot contraction (retraction) is thought to promote wound closure and secure hemostasis while preventing vascular occlusion. Notwithstanding its importance, clot contraction remains a poorly understood process, partially because of the lack of methodology to quantify its dynamics and requirements. We used a novel automated optical analyzer to continuously track in vitro changes in the size of contracting clots in whole blood and in variously reconstituted samples. Kinetics of contraction was complemented with dynamic rheometry to characterize the viscoelasticity of contracting clots. This combined approach enabled investigation of the coordinated mechanistic impact of platelets, including nonmuscle myosin II, red blood cells (RBCs), fibrin(ogen), factor XIIIa (FXIIIa), and thrombin on the kinetics and mechanics of the contraction process. Clot contraction is composed of 3 sequential phases, each characterized by a distinct rate constant. Thrombin, Ca(2+), the integrin αIIbβ3, myosin IIa, FXIIIa cross-linking, and platelet count all promote 1 or more phases of the clot contraction process. In contrast, RBCs impair contraction and reduce elasticity, while increasing the overall contractile stress generated by the platelet-fibrin meshwork. A better understanding of the mechanisms by which blood cells, fibrin(ogen), and platelet-fibrin interactions modulate clot contraction may generate novel approaches to reveal and to manage thrombosis and hemostatic disorders. © 2016 by The American Society of Hematology.

Kinetics and mechanics of clot contraction are governed by the molecular and cellular composition of the blood

PubMed Central

Tutwiler, Valerie; Litvinov, Rustem I.; Lozhkin, Andrey P.; Peshkova, Alina D.; Lebedeva, Tatiana; Ataullakhanov, Fazoil I.; Spiller, Kara L.; Cines, Douglas B.

2016-01-01

Platelet-driven blood clot contraction (retraction) is thought to promote wound closure and secure hemostasis while preventing vascular occlusion. Notwithstanding its importance, clot contraction remains a poorly understood process, partially because of the lack of methodology to quantify its dynamics and requirements. We used a novel automated optical analyzer to continuously track in vitro changes in the size of contracting clots in whole blood and in variously reconstituted samples. Kinetics of contraction was complemented with dynamic rheometry to characterize the viscoelasticity of contracting clots. This combined approach enabled investigation of the coordinated mechanistic impact of platelets, including nonmuscle myosin II, red blood cells (RBCs), fibrin(ogen), factor XIIIa (FXIIIa), and thrombin on the kinetics and mechanics of the contraction process. Clot contraction is composed of 3 sequential phases, each characterized by a distinct rate constant. Thrombin, Ca2+, the integrin αIIbβ3, myosin IIa, FXIIIa cross-linking, and platelet count all promote 1 or more phases of the clot contraction process. In contrast, RBCs impair contraction and reduce elasticity, while increasing the overall contractile stress generated by the platelet-fibrin meshwork. A better understanding of the mechanisms by which blood cells, fibrin(ogen), and platelet-fibrin interactions modulate clot contraction may generate novel approaches to reveal and to manage thrombosis and hemostatic disorders. PMID:26603837

Minority business bidding for local government contracts: the complexity of availability.

PubMed

Bangs, Ralph L; Murrell, Audrey; Constance-Huggins, Monique

2007-01-01

While minority-business enterprises (MBEs) have gained some access to local government contracts during the last three decades, these firms continue to receive a small share of local government contract spending relative to the number of available firms. Researchers have suggested two general explanations for the low representation of MBEs in contract awards: (1) lack of qualifications and capacity among MBEs, and (2) public and private discrimination against MBEs in contracting processes. This study on prime contract opportunities in a Northern central city and county with a large minority population finds that low bid rates greatly contribute to the low MBE shares of prime contracts and that bidding is reduced by both local government processes and characteristics of the firms. Some implications of these findings are that local governments need to: (1) monitor MBE shares of prime contract bids by size of contract and use share of bids as one measure of program and organizational effectiveness; (2) identify MBEs that are qualified for prime contracts and encourage and help interested firms to submit competitive bids; and (3) ensure that local government policies and practices do not diminish access to information about prime contract opportunities for qualified and interested minority firms. Another implication is that bidders lists should not be a primary basis for determining MBE availability, since many qualified and interested MBEs do not bid because of perceived barriers in local government.

Hierarchical control of motor units in voluntary contractions.

PubMed

De Luca, Carlo J; Contessa, Paola

2012-01-01

For the past five decades there has been wide acceptance of a relationship between the firing rate of motor units and the afterhyperpolarization of motoneurons. It has been promulgated that the higher-threshold, larger-soma, motoneurons fire faster than the lower-threshold, smaller-soma, motor units. This relationship was based on studies on anesthetized cats with electrically stimulated motoneurons. We questioned its applicability to motor unit control during voluntary contractions in humans. We found that during linearly force-increasing contractions, firing rates increased as exponential functions. At any time and force level, including at recruitment, the firing rate values were inversely related to the recruitment threshold of the motor unit. The time constants of the exponential functions were directly related to the recruitment threshold. From the Henneman size principle it follows that the characteristics of the firing rates are also related to the size of the soma. The "firing rate spectrum" presents a beautifully simple control scheme in which, at any given time or force, the firing rate value of earlier-recruited motor units is greater than that of later-recruited motor units. This hierarchical control scheme describes a mechanism that provides an effective economy of force generation for the earlier-recruited lower force-twitch motor units, and reduces the fatigue of later-recruited higher force-twitch motor units-both characteristics being well suited for generating and sustaining force during the fight-or-flight response.

Hierarchical control of motor units in voluntary contractions

PubMed Central

Contessa, Paola

2012-01-01

For the past five decades there has been wide acceptance of a relationship between the firing rate of motor units and the afterhyperpolarization of motoneurons. It has been promulgated that the higher-threshold, larger-soma, motoneurons fire faster than the lower-threshold, smaller-soma, motor units. This relationship was based on studies on anesthetized cats with electrically stimulated motoneurons. We questioned its applicability to motor unit control during voluntary contractions in humans. We found that during linearly force-increasing contractions, firing rates increased as exponential functions. At any time and force level, including at recruitment, the firing rate values were inversely related to the recruitment threshold of the motor unit. The time constants of the exponential functions were directly related to the recruitment threshold. From the Henneman size principle it follows that the characteristics of the firing rates are also related to the size of the soma. The “firing rate spectrum” presents a beautifully simple control scheme in which, at any given time or force, the firing rate value of earlier-recruited motor units is greater than that of later-recruited motor units. This hierarchical control scheme describes a mechanism that provides an effective economy of force generation for the earlier-recruited lower force-twitch motor units, and reduces the fatigue of later-recruited higher force-twitch motor units—both characteristics being well suited for generating and sustaining force during the fight-or-flight response. PMID:21975447

Cardiomyocyte Circadian Oscillations Are Cell-Autonomous, Amplified by β-Adrenergic Signaling, and Synchronized in Cardiac Ventricle Tissue

PubMed Central

Welsh, David K.

2016-01-01

Circadian clocks impact vital cardiac parameters such as blood pressure and heart rate, and adverse cardiac events such as myocardial infarction and sudden cardiac death. In mammals, the central circadian pacemaker, located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the hypothalamus, synchronizes cellular circadian clocks in the heart and many other tissues throughout the body. Cardiac ventricle explants maintain autonomous contractions and robust circadian oscillations of clock gene expression in culture. In the present study, we examined the relationship between intrinsic myocardial function and circadian rhythms in cultures from mouse heart. We cultured ventricular explants or dispersed cardiomyocytes from neonatal mice expressing a PER2::LUC bioluminescent reporter of circadian clock gene expression. We found that isoproterenol, a β-adrenoceptor agonist known to increase heart rate and contractility, also amplifies PER2 circadian rhythms in ventricular explants. We found robust, cell-autonomous PER2 circadian rhythms in dispersed cardiomyocytes. Single-cell rhythms were initially synchronized in ventricular explants but desynchronized in dispersed cells. In addition, we developed a method for long-term, simultaneous monitoring of clock gene expression, contraction rate, and basal intracellular Ca2+ level in cardiomyocytes using PER2::LUC in combination with GCaMP3, a genetically encoded fluorescent Ca2+ reporter. In contrast to robust PER2 circadian rhythms in cardiomyocytes, we detected no rhythms in contraction rate and only weak rhythms in basal Ca2+ level. In summary, we found that PER2 circadian rhythms of cardiomyocytes are cell-autonomous, amplified by adrenergic signaling, and synchronized by intercellular communication in ventricle explants, but we detected no robust circadian rhythms in contraction rate or basal Ca2+. PMID:27459195

Examination of Poststroke Alteration in Motor Unit Firing Behavior Using High-Density Surface EMG Decomposition.

PubMed

Li, Xiaoyan; Holobar, Ales; Gazzoni, Marco; Merletti, Roberto; Rymer, William Zev; Zhou, Ping

2015-05-01

Recent advances in high-density surface electromyogram (EMG) decomposition have made it a feasible task to discriminate single motor unit activity from surface EMG interference patterns, thus providing a noninvasive approach for examination of motor unit control properties. In the current study, we applied high-density surface EMG recording and decomposition techniques to assess motor unit firing behavior alterations poststroke. Surface EMG signals were collected using a 64-channel 2-D electrode array from the paretic and contralateral first dorsal interosseous (FDI) muscles of nine hemiparetic stroke subjects at different isometric discrete contraction levels between 2 to 10 N with a 2 N increment step. Motor unit firing rates were extracted through decomposition of the high-density surface EMG signals and compared between paretic and contralateral muscles. Across the nine tested subjects, paretic FDI muscles showed decreased motor unit firing rates compared with contralateral muscles at different contraction levels. Regression analysis indicated a linear relation between the mean motor unit firing rate and the muscle contraction level for both paretic and contralateral muscles (p < 0.001), with the former demonstrating a lower increment rate (0.32 pulses per second (pps)/N) compared with the latter (0.67 pps/N). The coefficient of variation (averaged over the contraction levels) of the motor unit firing rates for the paretic muscles (0.21 ± 0.012) was significantly higher than for the contralateral muscles (0.17 ± 0.014) (p < 0.05). This study provides direct evidence of motor unit firing behavior alterations poststroke using surface EMG, which can be an important factor contributing to hemiparetic muscle weakness.

Examination of Post-stroke Alteration in Motor Unit Firing Behavior Using High Density Surface EMG Decomposition

PubMed Central

Li, Xiaoyan; Holobar, Aleš; Gazzoni, Marco; Merletti, Roberto; Rymer, William Z.; Zhou, Ping

2014-01-01

Recent advances in high density surface electromyogram (EMG) decomposition have made it a feasible task to discriminate single motor unit activity from surface EMG interference patterns, thus providing a noninvasive approach for examination of motor unit control properties. In the current study we applied high density surface EMG recording and decomposition techniques to assess motor unit firing behavior alterations post-stroke. Surface EMG signals were collected using a 64-channel 2-dimensional electrode array from the paretic and contralateral first dorsal interosseous (FDI) muscles of nine hemiparetic stroke subjects at different isometric discrete contraction levels between 2 N to 10 N with a 2 N increment step. Motor unit firing rates were extracted through decomposition of the high density surface EMG signals, and compared between paretic and contralateral muscles. Across the nine tested subjects, paretic FDI muscles showed decreased motor unit firing rates compared with contralateral muscles at different contraction levels. Regression analysis indicated a linear relation between the mean motor unit firing rate and the muscle contraction level for both paretic and contralateral muscles (p < 0.001), with the former demonstrating a lower increment rate (0.32 pulses per second (pps)/N) compared with the latter (0.67 pps/N). The coefficient of variation (CoV, averaged over the contraction levels) of the motor unit firing rates for the paretic muscles (0.21 ± 0.012) was significantly higher than for the contralateral muscles (0.17 ± 0.014) (p < 0.05). This study provides direct evidence of motor unit firing behavior alterations post-stroke using surface EMG, which can be an important factor contributing to hemiparetic muscle weakness. PMID:25389239

Differences in the motor unit firing rates and amplitudes in relation to recruitment thresholds during submaximal contractions of the first dorsal interosseous between chronically resistance trained and physically active men.

PubMed

Sterczala, Adam J; Miller, Jonathan D; Trevino, Michael A; Dimmick, Hannah L; Herda, Trent J

2018-02-26

Previous investigations report no changes in motor unit (MU) firing rates during submaximal contractions following resistance training. These investigations did not account for MU recruitment or examine firing rates as a function of recruitment threshold (REC).Therefore, MU recruitment and firing rates in chronically resistance trained (RT) and physically active controls (CON) were examined. Surface electromyography signals were collected from the first dorsal interosseous (FDI) during isometric muscle actions at 40% and 70% maximal voluntary contraction (MVC). For each MU, force at REC, mean firing rate (MFR) during the steady force, and MU action potential amplitude (MUAP_AMP) were analyzed. For each individual and contraction, the MFRs were linearly regressed against REC, whereas, exponential models were applied to the MFR vs. MUAP_AMP and MUAP_AMP vs. REC relationships with the y-intercepts and slopes (linear) and A and B terms (exponential) calculated. For the 40% MVC, the RT group had less negative slopes (p=0.001) and lower y-intercepts (p=0.006) of the MFR vs. REC relationships and lower B terms (p=0.011) of the MUAP_AMP vs. REC relationships. There were no differences in either relationship between groups for the 70% MVC. During the 40% MVC, the RT had a smaller range of MFRs and MUAP_AMPS in comparison to the CON, likely due to reduced MU recruitment. The RT had lower MFRs and recruitment during the 40% MVC that may indicate a leftward shift in the force-frequency relationship, and thus require less excitation to the motoneuron pool to match the same relative force.

Motor unit recruitment strategies are altered during deep-tissue pain.

PubMed

Tucker, Kylie; Butler, Jane; Graven-Nielsen, Thomas; Riek, Stephan; Hodges, Paul

2009-09-02

Muscle pain is associated with decreased motor unit discharge rate during constant force contractions. As discharge rate is a determinant of force, other adaptations in strategy must explain force maintenance during pain. Our aim was to determine whether motor unit recruitment strategies are altered during pain to maintain force despite reduced discharge rate. Motor unit discharge behavior was recorded in two muscles, one with (quadriceps) and one without [flexor pollicis longus (FPL)] synergists. Motor units were recruited during matched low-force contractions with and without experimentally induced pain, and at higher force without pain. A total of 52 and 34 units were recorded in quadriceps and FPL, respectively, during low-force contractions with and without pain. Of these, 20 quadriceps and 9 FPL units were identified during both trials. The discharge rate of these units reduced during pain in both muscles [quadriceps: 8.7 (1.5) to 7.5 (1.3) Hz, p < 0.001; FPL: 11.9 (1.5) to 10.0 (1.7) Hz, p < 0.001]. All remaining units discharged only with or without pain, but not in both conditions. Only one-third of the additional units recruited during pain (quadriceps n = 7/19, FPL n = 3/15) were those expected given orderly recruitment of the motor unit pool as determined during higher-force contractions. We conclude that reduced motor unit discharge rate with pain is accompanied by changes in the population of units used to maintain force. The recruitment of new units is partly inconsistent with generalized inhibition of the motoneuron pool predicted by the "pain adaptation" theory, and provides the basis for a new mechanism of motor adaptation with pain.

Natural gas price uncertainty and the cost-effectiveness of hedging against low hydropower revenues caused by drought

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kern, Jordan D.; Characklis, Gregory W.; Foster, Benjamin T.

2015-04-01

Prolonged periods of low reservoir inflows (droughts) significantly reduce a hydropower producer's ability to generate both electricity and revenues. Given the capital intensive nature of the electric power industry, this can impact hydropower producers' ability to pay down outstanding debt, leading to credit rating downgrades, higher interests rates on new debt, and ultimately, greater infrastructure costs. One potential tool for reducing the financial exposure of hydropower producers to drought is hydrologic index insurance, in particular, contracts structured to payout when streamflows drop below a specified level. An ongoing challenge in developing this type of insurance, however, is minimizing contracts' "basis risk," that is, the degree to which contract payouts deviate in timing and/or amount from actual damages experienced by policyholders. In this paper, we show that consideration of year-to-year changes in the value of hydropower (i.e., the cost of replacing it with an alternative energy source during droughts) is critical to reducing contract basis risk. In particular, we find that volatility in the price of natural gas, a key driver of peak electricity prices, can significantly degrade the performance of index insurance unless contracts are designed to explicitly consider natural gas prices when determining payouts. Results show that a combined index whose value is derived from both seasonal streamflows and the spot price of natural gas yields contracts that exhibit both lower basis risk and greater effectiveness in terms of reducing financial exposure.

A Mathematical Model of Airway and Pulmonary Arteriole Smooth Muscle

PubMed Central

Wang, Inga; Politi, Antonio Z.; Tania, Nessy; Bai, Yan; Sanderson, Michael J.; Sneyd, James

2008-01-01

Airway hyperresponsiveness is a major characteristic of asthma and is believed to result from the excessive contraction of airway smooth muscle cells (SMCs). However, the identification of the mechanisms responsible for airway hyperresponsiveness is hindered by our limited understanding of how calcium (Ca2+), myosin light chain kinase (MLCK), and myosin light chain phosphatase (MLCP) interact to regulate airway SMC contraction. In this work, we present a modified Hai-Murphy cross-bridge model of SMC contraction that incorporates Ca2+ regulation of MLCK and MLCP. A comparative fit of the model simulations to experimental data predicts 1), that airway and arteriole SMC contraction is initiated by fast activation by Ca2+ of MLCK; 2), that airway SMC, but not arteriole SMC, is inhibited by a slower activation by Ca2+ of MLCP; and 3), that the presence of a contractile agonist inhibits MLCP to enhance the Ca2+ sensitivity of airway and arteriole SMCs. The implication of these findings is that murine airway SMCs exploit a Ca2+-dependent mechanism to favor a default state of relaxation. The rate of SMC relaxation is determined principally by the rate of release of the latch-bridge state, which is predicted to be faster in airway than in arteriole. In addition, the model also predicts that oscillations in calcium concentration, commonly observed during agonist-induced smooth muscle contraction, cause a significantly greater contraction than an elevated steady calcium concentration. PMID:18065464

Effect of Channel Blockers on the Smooth Muscle of the Adult Crop of the Queen Blowfly, Phormia regina

PubMed Central

Stoffolano, John G.; Danai, Laura; Chambers, James

2013-01-01

Few studies have examined the various factors affecting the rate of contraction of the supercontractile muscles of the crop lobes of adult Phormia regina Meigen (Diptera: Calliphoridae). Using an in situ bioassay of the crop organ, various ion channel blockers were tested and it was demonstrated that in all cases the blockers (i.e., against the following conductances: Cl- , Ca2+ , Na+, and a FMRF-amide action) significantly reduced the contraction rates of the crop lobes, which were filled with 4.5 µL of 1.0 M sucrose containing 10 mM of the dye amaranth. Benzyltrimethylammonium chloride, never before reported for its effect on insect muscle, was as effective in suppressing crop muscle contraction as benzethonium chloride, which is a reported agonist of dromyosuppressin. PMID:24205919

12 CFR 226.30 - Limitation on rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... any consumer credit contract secured by a dwelling and subject to the act and this regulation the... 74 FR 5421, Jan. 29, 2009, § 226.30 was revised, effective July 1, 2010. For the convenience of the... in any consumer credit contract secured by a dwelling and subject to the act and this regulation the...

77 FR 44059 - Federal Acquisition Regulation; Payments Under Time-and-Materials and Labor-Hour Contracts

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-07-26

...) Payments of this clause, but the ``hourly rate'' for labor hours expended in furnishing work not delivered...] RIN 9000-AM01 Federal Acquisition Regulation; Payments Under Time-and-Materials and Labor-Hour... the authorization to use time-and-materials and labor-hour contract payment requirements. DATES...

43 CFR Appendix A to Subpart F of... - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages specified in a wage determination... other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or laborers shall include a provision for..., each contractor shall be required to compute the wages of every mechanic and laborer on the basis of a...

22 CFR Appendix A to Part 226 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... Construction”). Under this Act, contractors shall be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate... in excess of $2500 for other such contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or laborers... section 102 of the Act, each contractor shall be required to compute the wages of every mechanic and...

28 CFR Appendix A to Part 70 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages specified in a wage determination made by... other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or laborers must include a provision for..., each contractor is required to compute the wages of every mechanic and laborer on the basis of a...

43 CFR Appendix A to Subpart F of... - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages specified in a wage determination... other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or laborers shall include a provision for..., each contractor shall be required to compute the wages of every mechanic and laborer on the basis of a...

29 CFR Appendix A to Part 95 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... Construction”). Under this Act, contractors shall be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate... contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or laborers shall include a provision for compliance with... shall be required to compute the wages of every mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work...

28 CFR Appendix A to Part 70 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages specified in a wage determination made by... other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or laborers must include a provision for..., each contractor is required to compute the wages of every mechanic and laborer on the basis of a...

38 CFR Appendix A to Part 49 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages specified in a wage determination... of $2500 for other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or laborers shall include a... of the Act, each contractor shall be required to compute the wages of every mechanic and laborer on...

24 CFR Appendix A to Part 84 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages specified in a wage determination... other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or laborers shall include a provision for..., each contractor shall be required to compute the wages of every mechanic and laborer on the basis of a...

38 CFR Appendix A to Part 49 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages specified in a wage determination... of $2500 for other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or laborers shall include a... of the Act, each contractor shall be required to compute the wages of every mechanic and laborer on...

22 CFR Appendix A to Part 226 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... Construction”). Under this Act, contractors shall be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate... in excess of $2500 for other such contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or laborers... section 102 of the Act, each contractor shall be required to compute the wages of every mechanic and...

22 CFR Appendix A to Part 226 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... Construction”). Under this Act, contractors shall be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate... in excess of $2500 for other such contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or laborers... section 102 of the Act, each contractor shall be required to compute the wages of every mechanic and...

40 CFR Appendix to Part 30 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages specified in a wage determination... contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or laborers shall include a provision for compliance with... shall be required to compute the wages of every mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work...

29 CFR Appendix A to Part 95 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... Construction”). Under this Act, contractors shall be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate... contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or laborers shall include a provision for compliance with... shall be required to compute the wages of every mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work...

38 CFR Appendix A to Part 49 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages specified in a wage determination... of $2500 for other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or laborers shall include a... of the Act, each contractor shall be required to compute the wages of every mechanic and laborer on...

29 CFR Appendix A to Part 95 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... Construction”). Under this Act, contractors shall be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate... contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or laborers shall include a provision for compliance with... shall be required to compute the wages of every mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work...

28 CFR Appendix A to Part 70 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages specified in a wage determination made by... other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or laborers must include a provision for..., each contractor is required to compute the wages of every mechanic and laborer on the basis of a...

Indian Education in Wisconsin Under State Contract. Twentieth Annual Report (Statistical Section).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kingston, A. W.; Embertson, E. N.

This statistical portion of the 1966-1967 annual report on Indian education in the state schools of Wisconsin contains data concerning total enrollment, attendance, number of Indian graduates, expenditures under Johnson-O'Malley contracts, and rate of school taxes. The Indian Education Fund Financial Statement is presented, as well as a…

40 CFR Appendix to Part 30 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages specified in a wage determination... contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or laborers shall include a provision for compliance with... shall be required to compute the wages of every mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work...

24 CFR Appendix A to Part 84 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages specified in a wage determination... other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or laborers shall include a provision for..., each contractor shall be required to compute the wages of every mechanic and laborer on the basis of a...

24 CFR Appendix A to Part 84 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages specified in a wage determination... other contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or laborers shall include a provision for..., each contractor shall be required to compute the wages of every mechanic and laborer on the basis of a...

40 CFR Appendix to Part 30 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages specified in a wage determination... contracts that involve the employment of mechanics or laborers shall include a provision for compliance with... shall be required to compute the wages of every mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work...

48 CFR 15.407-3 - Forward pricing rate agreements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... data submitted in connection with the FPRA, updated as necessary, form a part of the total data that the offeror certifies to be accurate, complete, and current at the time of agreement on price for an initial contract or for a contract modification. (See the Certificate of Current Cost or Pricing Data at...

48 CFR 15.407-3 - Forward pricing rate agreements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... data submitted in connection with the FPRA, updated as necessary, form a part of the total data that the offeror certifies to be accurate, complete, and current at the time of agreement on price for an initial contract or for a contract modification. (See the Certificate of Current Cost or Pricing Data at...

48 CFR 32.608-2 - Interest credits.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... following procedures: (1) Interest at the rate under 52.232-17 shall be charged on the reduced debt from the... REQUIREMENTS CONTRACT FINANCING Contract Debts 32.608-2 Interest credits. (a) An equitable interest credit... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Interest credits. 32.608-2...

7 CFR 760.909 - Payment calculation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... based on 26 percent of the average fair market value of the livestock. (c) The 2005-2007 LIP national payment rate for eligible livestock contract growers is based on 26 percent of the average income loss... this part); (2) For the loss of income from the dead livestock from the party who contracted with the...

7 CFR 760.909 - Payment calculation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... based on 26 percent of the average fair market value of the livestock. (c) The 2005-2007 LIP national payment rate for eligible livestock contract growers is based on 26 percent of the average income loss... this part); (2) For the loss of income from the dead livestock from the party who contracted with the...

The BIA/Contract School Secondary Administrator: Characteristics and Leadership Style.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chance, Edward W.

This study of the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and contract secondary school administrators creates a BIA administrator profile and examines differences between Indian and non-Indian administrators. Two different instruments were mailed to 54 administrators. The first, with a return rate of 44%, was a questionnaire relating to administrative…

Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Behavioral Contracting in Exercise Programs.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Neale, Anne Victoria; And Others

The use of behavioral contracting in exercise programs has been shown to be effective in increasing the frequency of exercise activity and in reducing dropout rates. A study was undertaken to examine the impact of three cardiovascular risk factors (poor physical fitness, obesity, and smoking) on both client willingness to sign a behavioral…

48 CFR 2052.215-79 - Contract award and evaluation of proposals.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... offeror's best terms from a cost or price and technical standpoint. The Government reserves the right to... the number at which an efficient competition can be conducted, the Contracting Officer may limit the... competition among the most highly rated proposals. (e) The Government reserves the right to make an award on...

Recovery of strength is dependent on mTORC1 signaling after eccentric muscle injury.

PubMed

Baumann, Cory Walter; Rogers, Russell George; Otis, Jeffrey Scott; Ingalls, Christopher Paul

2016-11-01

Eccentric contractions may cause immediate and long-term reductions in muscle strength that can be recovered through increased protein synthesis rates. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the mechanistic target-of-rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1), a vital controller of protein synthesis rates, is required for return of muscle strength after injury. Isometric muscle strength was assessed before, immediately after, and then 3, 7, and 14 days after a single bout of 150 eccentric contractions in mice that received daily injections of saline or rapamycin. The bout of eccentric contractions increased the phosphorylation of mTORC1 (1.8-fold) and p70s6k1 (13.8-fold), mTORC1's downstream effector, 3 days post-injury. Rapamycin blocked mTORC1 and p70s6k1 phosphorylation and attenuated recovery of muscle strength (∼20%) at 7 and 14 days. mTORC1 signaling is instrumental in the return of muscle strength after a single bout of eccentric contractions in mice. Muscle Nerve 54: 914-924, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Bub2 regulation of cytokinesis and septation in budding yeast

PubMed Central

Park, Su Young; Cable, Addie E; Blair, Jessica; Stockstill, Katherine E; Shannnon, Katie B

2009-01-01

Background The mitotic exit network (MEN) is required for events at the end of mitosis such as degradation of mitotic cyclins and cytokinesis. Bub2 and its binding partner Bfa1 act as a GTPase activating protein (GAP) to negatively regulate the MEN GTPase Tem1. The Bub2/Bfa1 checkpoint pathway is required to delay the cell cycle in response to mispositioned spindles. In addition to its role in mitotic exit, Tem1 is required for actomyosin ring contraction. Results To test the hypothesis that the Bub2 pathway prevents premature actin ring assembly, we compared the timing of actin ring formation in wild type, bub2Δ, mad2Δ, and bub2Δmad2Δ cells both with and without microtubules. There was no difference in the timing of actin ring formation between wild type and mutant cells in a synchronized cell cycle. In the presence of nocodazole, both bub2Δ and mad2Δ cells formed rings after a delay of the same duration. Double mutant bub2Δmad2Δ and bfa1Δmad2Δ cells formed rings at the same time with and without nocodazole. To determine if Bub2 has an effect on actomyosin ring contraction through its regulation of Tem1, we used live cell imaging of Myo1-GFP in a bub2Δ strain. We found a significant decrease in the total time of contraction and an increase in rate of contraction compared to wild type cells. We also examined myosin contraction using Myo1-GFP in cells overexpressing an epitope tagged Bub2. Surprisingly, overexpression of Bub2 also led to a significant increase in the rate of contraction, as well as morphological defects. The chained cell phenotype caused by Bub2 overexpression could be rescued by co-overexpression of Tem1, and was not rescued by deletion of BFA1. Conclusion Our data indicate that the Bub2 checkpoint pathway does not have a specific role in delaying actin ring formation. The observed increase in the rate of myosin contraction in the bub2Δ strain provides evidence that the MEN regulates actomyosin ring contraction. Our data suggest that the overexpression of the Bub2 fusion protein acts as a dominant negative, leading to septation defects by a mechanism that is Tem1-dependent. PMID:19490645

Optical NIR monitoring of skeletal muscle contraction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lago, Paolo; Gelmetti, Andrea; Pavesi, Roberta; Zambarbieri, Daniela

1996-12-01

NIR spectroscopy allows monitoring of muscle oxygenation and perfusion during contraction. The knowledge of modifications of blood characteristics in body tissues has relevant clinical interest. A compact and reliable device, which makes use of two laser diodes at 750 and 810 nm coupled with the skin surface through optical fibers, was tested. NIR and surface EMG signals during isometric contractions both in normal and ischaemic conditions were analyzed. A set of parameters from the 750/810 spectroscopic curve was analyzed. Two different categories depending on the recovery rate from maximal voluntary contraction to basal oxygenation conditions were found. This behavior can give information about metabolic modifications during muscle fatigue. Interesting results in testing isokinetic rehabilitation training were also obtained.

Triphasic behavioral response of motor units to submaximal fatiguing exercise.

PubMed

Dorfman, L J; Howard, J E; McGill, K C

1990-07-01

We have measured the firing rate and amplitude of 4551 motor unit action potentials (MUAPs) recorded with concentric needle electrodes from the brachial biceps muscles of 10 healthy young adults before, during, and after 45 minutes of intermittent isometric exercise at 20% of maximum voluntary contraction (MVC), using an automatic method for decomposition of electromyographic activity (ADEMG). During and after exercise, MUAPs derived from contractions of 30% MVC showed progressive increase in mean firing rate (P less than or equal to .01) and amplitude (P less than or equal to .05). The firing rate increase preceded the rise in mean amplitude, and was evident prior to the development of fatigue, defined as reduction of MVC. Analysis of individual potentials revealed that the increase in firing rate and in amplitude reflected different MUAP subpopulations. A short-term (less than 1 minute) reduction in MUAP firing rates (P less than or equal to .05) was also observed at the onset of each test contraction. These findings suggest that motor units exhibit a triphasic behavioral response to prolonged submaximal exercise: (1) short-term decline and stabilization of onset firing rates, followed by (2) gradual and progressive increase in firing rates and firing variability, and then by (3) recruitment of additional (larger) motor units. The (2) and (3) components presumably compensate for loss of force-generating capacity in the exercising muscle, and give rise jointly to the well-known increase in total surface EMG which accompanies muscle fatigue.

Contractile activity of the bladder urothelium/lamina propria and its regulation by nitric oxide.

PubMed

Moro, Christian; Leeds, Charlotte; Chess-Williams, Russ

2012-01-15

In the bladder, nitric oxide (NO) is released from neuronal and non-neuronal sources, but its actions are unclear. Strips of urothelium plus lamina propria contract in response to agonists and develop spontaneous phasic contractions, and the aim of this study was to investigate the influence of NO on this activity. Isolated strips of urothelium/lamina propria from porcine bladder developed spontaneous contractions (3.5 ± 0.3 cycles/min) and contracted in response to carbachol and electrical field stimulation (EFS). The NO synthase inhibitor N(ω)-nitro-l-arginine (L-NNA, 100 μM) had no effects on the tissues, but the NO donors diethylamine NONOate (DEANO, 100 μM) and nitroprusside (10 μM) caused relaxation, slowed the spontaneous rate of contractions and inhibited responses to carbachol. Maximum tonic contractions to carbachol were reduced by 17 ± 4% (P<0.001) and 35 ± 5% (P<0.001) by DEANO and nitroprusside respectively and the potency of carbachol was also reduced. Carbachol also increased the spontaneous frequency of contraction and these rate responses were again inhibited by DEANO and nitroprusside, but unaffected by L-NNA. Similarly, responses to EFS were significantly depressed (52-70%) by DEANO (P<0.05), but were unaffected by L-NNA. These data demonstrate spontaneous contractile activity and also nerve and agonist-induced tonic contractile activity within the urothelium and lamina propria. This activity is sensitive to depression by NO, but NO does not appear to be spontaneously released to influence this activity, nor does it appear to be released by muscarinic receptor stimulation. However the results suggest that in situations where NO production is increased, NO can influence the contractile activity of this tissue. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Intermittent Auscultation in Labor: Could It Be Missing Many Pathological (Late) Fetal Heart Rate Decelerations? Analytical Review and Rationale for Improvement Supported by Clinical Cases

PubMed Central

Sholapurkar, Shashikant L.

2015-01-01

Intermittent auscultation (IA) of fetal heart rate (FHR) is recommended/preferred in low risk labors. Its usage even in developed countries is poised to increase because of perceived benefit of reduction in operative intervention and some disillusionment with the cardiotocography (CTG). Many national guidelines have stipulated regimes (frequency/timing) of IA based on level IV evidence. These tend to get faithfully and exactingly followed. It was observed that deliveries of many unexpectedly asphyxiated infants occurred despite rigorously performed and documented IA compliant with the guidelines. This triggered a reappraisal of the robustness of IA leading to this focused review supplemented by two anonymized cases. It concludes that the current methodology of IA may be flawed in that it poses a risk of missing many or most late (pathological) FHR decelerations, one of the foremost goals of IA. This is because many late decelerations reach their nadir before the end of the contraction. Thus the currently recommended auscultation of FHR for 60 seconds after the contraction by all national guidelines seemed to encompass their “recovery” phase and appeared to be misinterpreted as normal FHR or even as a reassuring accelerative pattern in the clinical practice. A recent recommendation of recording of the FHR as a single figure (rather than a range) does not remedy this anomaly and seems even less informative. It would be better to auscultate FHR before and after the contractions (or contraction to contraction) and take the FHR just before the contraction as the baseline FHR and interpret the FHR after contraction in the context of this baseline. This relatively simple improvement would detect most late FHR decelerations thus ameliorating the risk and significantly enhancing the patient safety. PMID:26566404

High-speed digital imaging of cytosolic Ca2+ and contraction in single cardiomyocytes.

PubMed

O'Rourke, B; Reibel, D K; Thomas, A P

1990-07-01

A charge-coupled device (CCD) camera, with the capacity for simultaneous spatially resolved photon counting and rapid frame transfer, was utilized for high-speed digital image collection from an inverted epifluorescence microscope. The unique properties of the CCD detector were applied to an analysis of cell shortening and the Ca2+ transient from fluorescence images of fura-2-loaded [corrected] cardiomyocytes. On electrical stimulation of the cell, a series of sequential subimages was collected and used to create images of Ca2+ within the cell during contraction. The high photosensitivity of the camera, combined with a detector-based frame storage technique, permitted collection of fluorescence images 10 ms apart. This rate of image collection was sufficient to resolve the rapid events of contraction, e.g., the upstroke of the Ca2+ transient (less than 40 ms) and the time to peak shortening (less than 80 ms). The technique was used to examine the effects of beta-adrenoceptor activation, fura-2 load, and stimulus frequency on cytosolic Ca2+ transients and contractions of single cardiomyocytes. beta-Adrenoceptor stimulation resulted in pronounced increases in peak Ca2+, maximal rates of rise and decay of Ca2+, extent of shortening, and maximal velocities of shortening and relaxation. Raising the intracellular load of fura-2 had little effect on the rising phase of Ca2+ or the extent of shortening but extended the duration of the Ca2+ transient and contraction. In related experiments utilizing differential-interference contrast microscopy, the same technique was applied to visualize sarcomere dynamics in contracting cells. This newly developed technique is a versatile tool for analyzing the Ca2+ transient and mechanical events in studies of excitation-contraction coupling in cardiomyocytes.

Reducing composite restoration polymerization shrinkage stress through resin modified glass-ionomer based adhesives.

PubMed

Naoum, S J; Mutzelburg, P R; Shumack, T G; Thode, Djg; Martin, F E; Ellakwa, A E

2015-12-01

The aim of this study was to determine whether employing resin modified glass-ionomer based adhesives can reduce polymerization contraction stress generated at the interface of restorative composite adhesive systems. Five resin based adhesives (G Bond, Optibond-All-in-One, Optibond-Solo, Optibond-XTR and Scotchbond-Universal) and two resin modified glass-ionomer based adhesives (Riva Bond-LC, Fuji Bond-LC) were analysed. Each adhesive was applied to bond restorative composite Filtek-Z250 to opposing acrylic rods secured within a universal testing machine. Stress developed at the interface of each adhesive-restorative composite system (n = 5) was calculated at 5-minute intervals over 6 hours. The resin based adhesive-restorative composite systems (RBA-RCS) demonstrated similar interface stress profiles over 6 hours; initial rapid contraction stress development (0-300 seconds) followed by continued contraction stress development ≤0.02MPa/s (300 seconds - 6 hours). The interface stress profile of the resin modified glass-ionomer based adhesive-restorative composite systems (RMGIBA-RCS) differed substantially to the RBA-RCS in several ways. Firstly, during 0-300 seconds the rate of contraction stress development at the interface of the RMGIBA-RCS was significantly (p < 0.05) lower than at the interface of the RBA-RCS. Secondly, at 300 seconds and 6 hours the interface contraction stress magnitude of the RMGIBA-RCS was significantly (p < 0.05) lower than the stress of all assessed RBA-RCS. Thirdly, from 300 seconds to 6 hours both the magnitude and rate of interface stress of the RMGIBA-RCS continued to decline over the 6 hours from the 300 seconds peak. The use of resin modified glass-ionomer based adhesives can significantly reduce the magnitude and rate of polymerization contraction stress developed at the interface of adhesive-restorative composite systems. © 2015 Australian Dental Association.

48 CFR 352.231-70 - Salary rate limitation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Salary rate limitation... Salary rate limitation. As prescribed in 331.101-70, the Contracting Officer shall insert the following clause: Salary Rate Limitation (January 2010) (a) Pursuant to the current and applicable prior HHS...

Activation properties of trigeminal motoneurons in participants with and without bruxism

PubMed Central

D'Amico, Jessica M.; Yavuz, Ş. Utku; Saraçoğlu, Ahmet; Atiş, Elif Sibel; Türker, Kemal S.

2013-01-01

In animals, sodium- and calcium-mediated persistent inward currents (PICs), which produce long-lasting periods of depolarization under conditions of low synaptic drive, can be activated in trigeminal motoneurons following the application of the monoamine serotonin. Here we examined if PICs are activated in human trigeminal motoneurons during voluntary contractions and under physiological levels of monoaminergic drive (e.g., serotonin and norepinephrine) using a paired motor unit analysis technique. We also examined if PICs activated during voluntary contractions are larger in participants who demonstrate involuntary chewing during sleep (bruxism), which is accompanied by periods of high monoaminergic drive. In control participants, during a slowly increasing and then decreasing isometric contraction, the firing rate of an earlier-recruited masseter motor unit, which served as a measure of synaptic input to a later-recruited test unit, was consistently lower during derecruitment of the test unit compared with at recruitment (ΔF = 4.6 ± 1.5 imp/s). The ΔF, therefore, is a measure of the reduction in synaptic input needed to counteract the depolarization from the PIC to provide an indirect estimate of PIC amplitude. The range of ΔF values measured in the bruxer participants during similar voluntary contractions was the same as in controls, suggesting that abnormally high levels of monoaminergic drive are not continually present in the absence of involuntary motor activity. We also observed a consistent “onion skin effect” during the moderately sized contractions (<20% of maximal), whereby the firing rate of higher threshold motor units discharged at slower rates (by 4–7 imp/s) compared with motor units with relatively lower thresholds. The presence of lower firing rates in the more fatigue-prone, higher threshold trigeminal motoneurons, in addition to the activation of PICs, likely facilitates the activation of the masseter muscle during motor activities such as eating, nonnutritive chewing, clenching, and yawning. PMID:24068753

Automated electrohysterographic detection of uterine contractions for monitoring of pregnancy: feasibility and prospects.

PubMed

Muszynski, C; Happillon, T; Azudin, K; Tylcz, J-B; Istrate, D; Marque, C

2018-05-08

Preterm birth is a major public health problem in developed countries. In this context, we have conducted research into outpatient monitoring of uterine electrical activity in women at risk of preterm delivery. The objective of this preliminary study was to perform automated detection of uterine contractions (without human intervention or tocographic signal, TOCO) by processing the EHG recorded on the abdomen of pregnant women. The feasibility and accuracy of uterine contraction detection based on EHG processing were tested and compared to expert decision using external tocodynamometry (TOCO) . The study protocol was approved by local Ethics Committees under numbers ID-RCB 2016-A00663-48 for France and VSN 02-0006-V2 for Iceland. Two populations of women were included (threatened preterm birth and labour) in order to test our system of recognition of the various types of uterine contractions. EHG signal acquisition was performed according to a standardized protocol to ensure optimal reproducibility of EHG recordings. A system of 18 Ag/AgCl surface electrodes was used by placing 16 recording electrodes between the woman's pubis and umbilicus according to a 4 × 4 matrix. TOCO was recorded simultaneously with EHG recording. EHG signals were analysed in real-time by calculation of the nonlinear correlation coefficient H 2 . A curve representing the number of correlated pairs of signals according to the value of H 2 calculated between bipolar signals was then plotted. High values of H 2 indicated the presence of an event that may correspond to a contraction. Two tests were performed after detection of an event (fusion and elimination of certain events) in order to increase the contraction detection rate. The EHG database contained 51 recordings from pregnant women, with a total of 501 contractions previously labelled by analysis of the corresponding tocographic recording. The percentage recognitions obtained by application of the method based on coefficient H 2 was 100% with 782% of false alarms. Addition of fusion and elimination tests to the previously obtained detections allowed the false alarm rate to be divided by 8.5, while maintaining an excellent detection rate (96%). These preliminary results appear to be encouraging for monitoring of uterine contractions by algorithm-based automated detection to process the electrohysterographic signal (EHG). This compact recording system, based on the use of surface electrodes attached to the skin, appears to be particularly suitable for outpatient monitoring of uterine contractions, possibly at home, allowing telemonitoring of pregnancies. One of the advantages of EHG processing is that useful information concerning contraction efficiency can be extracted from this signal, which is not possible with the TOCO signal.

Combined Effect of Contraction Ratio and Chamber Pressure on the Performance of a Gaseous Hydrogen-Liquid-Oxygen Combustor for a Given Propellant Weight Flow and Oxidant-Fuel Ratio

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hersch, Martin

1961-01-01

The effect of contraction ratio and chamber pressure on the combustion performance of a gaseous-hydrogen-liquid-oxygen combustor was investigated analytically and experimentally. The experiment was conducted with a "two-dimensional" gaseous-hydrogen-liquid-oxygen engine of about 150-pound thrust. The contraction ratio was varied from 1.5 to 6 by changing the nozzle throat area. This variation resulted in a chamber pressure variation of about 25 to 120 pounds per square inch. The experimental results were corrected for heat transfer to the engine walls and momentum pressure losses. The experimental performance, as evaluated in terms of characteristic exhaust velocity, was 98 percent of theoretical at contraction ratios greater than 3 but decreased very rapidly at smaller contraction ratios. The heat-transfer rate increased with increasing contraction ratio and chamber pressure; it was about 1 Btu per square inch per second at a contraction ratio of 1.5 and increased to about 3 at a contraction ratio of 6. The combined effects of contraction-ratio and chamber-pressure changes on performance were investigated analytically with a mixing model and a vaporization model. The mixing model predicted very poor mixing at contraction ratios below 3 and almost perfect mixing at higher contraction ratios. The performance predicted by the vaporization model was very close to 100 percent for all contraction ratios. From these results, it was concluded that the performance was limited by poor mixing at low contraction ratios and chamber pressures.

Behavioural contracting as a tool to help patients achieve better health.

PubMed

Neale, A V

1991-12-01

Behavioural contracting is an intervention technique in which a client signs an agreement to make certain behaviour changes within a specified time, usually with explicitly defined rewards for adherence or success. Contracting is being increasingly used by health professionals to assist patients in making beneficial life style changes. This paper presents data on the outcome of behavioural contracting interventions to lower serum cholesterol and to increase exercise activity. Of 223 primary care patients enrolled in a health promotion programme, 179 met with the project health educator to improve their cardiovascular risk profile; 144 of these were classified as having 'high cholesterol' and 51 signed contracts to adopt the American Heart Association guidelines diet within a 3-month period. Everyone was encouraged to sign a contract to engage in aerobic exercise three times per week; 96 did so. The results indicate that contractors achieved greater beneficial health changes than non-contractors, and that the group which fully met their contract obligations experienced the greatest health benefit of all (either a lowering of cholesterol or a decreased exercising heart rate).

Dynamics of myosin-driven skeletal muscle contraction: I. Steady-state force generation.

PubMed

Lan, Ganhui; Sun, Sean X

2005-06-01

Skeletal muscle contraction is a canonical example of motor-driven force generation. Despite the long history of research in this topic, a mechanistic explanation of the collective myosin force generation is lacking. We present a theoretical model of muscle contraction based on the conformational movements of individual myosins and experimentally measured chemical rate constants. Detailed mechanics of the myosin motor and the geometry of the sarcomere are taken into account. Two possible scenarios of force generation are examined. We find only one of the scenarios can give rise to a plausible contraction mechanism. We propose that the synchrony in muscle contraction is due to a force-dependent ADP release step. Computational results of a half sarcomere with 150 myosin heads can explain the experimentally measured force-velocity relationship and efficiency data. We predict that the number of working myosin motors increases as the load force is increased, thus showing synchrony among myosin motors during muscle contraction. We also find that titin molecules anchoring the thick filament are passive force generators in assisting muscle contraction.

Dynamics of Myosin-Driven Skeletal Muscle Contraction: I. Steady-State Force Generation

PubMed Central

Lan, Ganhui; Sun, Sean X.

2005-01-01

Skeletal muscle contraction is a canonical example of motor-driven force generation. Despite the long history of research in this topic, a mechanistic explanation of the collective myosin force generation is lacking. We present a theoretical model of muscle contraction based on the conformational movements of individual myosins and experimentally measured chemical rate constants. Detailed mechanics of the myosin motor and the geometry of the sarcomere are taken into account. Two possible scenarios of force generation are examined. We find only one of the scenarios can give rise to a plausible contraction mechanism. We propose that the synchrony in muscle contraction is due to a force-dependent ADP release step. Computational results of a half sarcomere with 150 myosin heads can explain the experimentally measured force-velocity relationship and efficiency data. We predict that the number of working myosin motors increases as the load force is increased, thus showing synchrony among myosin motors during muscle contraction. We also find that titin molecules anchoring the thick filament are passive force generators in assisting muscle contraction. PMID:15778440

An Assessment of the Impact of the Contract Disputes Act of 1978 on U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Construction Contracts.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-03-01

paid from the date the Contracting Officer accepts the claim until payment thereof. Simple interest will be paid as computed at the rate established by...were of quantum (e.g., involved monetary decisions). If money is part of the decision, the Board will often rule in favor of one party based on the... quantum is in issue the exact amount had to be stated. This sum would then have to be certified if it exceeded $50,000. Althoug ’ the legislative

48 CFR 215.407-3 - Forward pricing rate agreements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 3 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Forward pricing rate agreements. 215.407-3 Section 215.407-3 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEFENSE ACQUISITION... Contract Pricing 215.407-3 Forward pricing rate agreements. (b)(i) Use forward pricing rate agreement (FPRA...

36 CFR 223.63 - Advertised rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 2 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Advertised rates. 223.63... Sale Contracts Appraisal and Pricing § 223.63 Advertised rates. Timber shall be advertised for sale at... construction is to be accomplished by the timber purchaser. The advertised rates shall be not less than minimum...

36 CFR 223.63 - Advertised rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 2 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Advertised rates. 223.63... Sale Contracts Appraisal and Pricing § 223.63 Advertised rates. Timber shall be advertised for sale at... construction is to be accomplished by the timber purchaser. The advertised rates shall be not less than minimum...

36 CFR 223.63 - Advertised rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 2 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Advertised rates. 223.63... Sale Contracts Appraisal and Pricing § 223.63 Advertised rates. Timber shall be advertised for sale at... construction is to be accomplished by the timber purchaser. The advertised rates shall be not less than minimum...

36 CFR 223.63 - Advertised rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 2 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Advertised rates. 223.63... Sale Contracts Appraisal and Pricing § 223.63 Advertised rates. Timber shall be advertised for sale at... construction is to be accomplished by the timber purchaser. The advertised rates shall be not less than minimum...

48 CFR 215.407-3 - Forward pricing rate agreements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 3 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Forward pricing rate agreements. 215.407-3 Section 215.407-3 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEFENSE ACQUISITION... Contract Pricing 215.407-3 Forward pricing rate agreements. (b)(i) Use forward pricing rate agreement (FPRA...

Hybrid cooperative spectrum sharing for cognitive radio networks: A contract-based approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Songwei; Mu, Xiaomin; Wang, Ning; Zhang, Dalong; Han, Gangtao

2018-06-01

In order to improve the spectral efficiency, a contract-based hybrid cooperative spectrum sharing approach is proposed in this paper, in which multiple primary users (PUs) and multiple secondary users (SUs) share the primary channels in a hybrid manner. Specifically, the SUs switch their transmission mode between underlay and overlay based on the second-order statistics of the primary links. The average transmission rates of PUs and SUs are analyzed for the two transmission modes, and an optimization problem is formulated to maximize the utility of PUs under the constraint that the utility of SUs is nonnegative, which is further solved by a contract-based approach in global statistical channel statistical information (S-CSI) scenarios and local S-CSI scenarios, individually. Numerical results show that the average transmission rate of the PUs is significantly improved by using the proposed method in both of the two scenarios, and in the meantime, the SUs can achieve a good average rate, especially while the SUs have the same number of the PUs in the local S-CSI scenarios.

29 CFR 4.181 - Overtime pay provisions of other Acts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... § 4.180. (b) Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act. (1) The Contract Work Hours and Safety... the work performed for the employer is subject to such Act and if, in such workweek, the total hours... not less than 11/2 times their regular rate of pay for all hours worked in excess of the applicable...

75 FR 2166 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; Chicago Board Options Exchange, Incorporated; Notice of Filing and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-01-14

... customer, voluntary professional and broker-dealer transaction fees for certain index options to create... proposes to increase the customer (``C'' origin code) transaction fee in S&P 100 options (OEX and XEO) from $.30 per contract to $.40 per contract, which is the same rate charged to customers for certain other...

Hand Movements and Braille Reading Efficiency: Data from the Alphabetic Braille and Contracted Braille Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wright, Tessa; Wormsley, Diane P.; Kamei-Hannan, Cheryl

2009-01-01

Using a subset of data from the Alphabetic Braille and Contracted Braille Study, researchers analyzed the patterns and characteristics of hand movements as predictors of reading performance. Statistically significant differences were found between one- and two-handed readers and between patterns of hand movements and reading rates. (Contains 6…

26 CFR 1.412(b)-2 - Amortization of experience gains in connection with certain group deferred annuity contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 26 Internal Revenue 5 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Amortization of experience gains in connection..., Profit-Sharing, Stock Bonus Plans, Etc. § 1.412(b)-2 Amortization of experience gains in connection with certain group deferred annuity contracts. (a) Experience gain treatment. Dividends, rate credits, and...

Motor unit behaviour and contractile changes during fatigue in the human first dorsal interosseus

PubMed Central

Carpentier, Alain; Duchateau, Jacques; Hainaut, Karl

2001-01-01

In 67 single motor units, the mechanical properties, the recruitment and derecruitment thresholds, and the discharge rates were recorded concurrently in the first dorsal interosseus (FDI) of human subjects during intermittent fatiguing contractions. The task consisted of isometric ramp-and-hold contractions performed at 50% of the maximal voluntary contraction (MVC). The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of fatigue on the behaviour of motor units with a wide range of activation thresholds. For low-threshold (< 25% MVC) motor units, the mean twitch force increased with fatigue and the recruitment threshold either did not change or increased. In contrast, the twitch force and the activation threshold decreased for the high-threshold (> 25% MVC) units. The observation that in low-threshold motor units a quick stretch of the muscle at the end of the test reset the unit force and recruitment threshold to the prefatigue value suggests a significant role for fatigue-related changes in muscle stiffness but not twitch potentiation or motor unit synchronization. Although the central drive intensified during the fatigue test, as indicated by an increase in surface electromyogram (EMG), the discharge rate of the motor units during the hold phase of each contraction decreased progressively over the course of the task for motor units that were recruited at the beginning of the test, especially the low-threshold units. In contrast, the discharge rates of newly activated units first increased and then decreased. Such divergent behaviour of low- and high-threshold motor units could not be individually controlled by the central drive to the motoneurone pool. Rather, the different behaviours must be the consequence of variable contributions from motoneurone adaptation and afferent feedback from the muscle during the fatiguing contraction. PMID:11483719

Effect of pain on the modulation in discharge rate of sternocleidomastoid motor units with force direction.

PubMed

Falla, Deborah; Lindstrøm, Rene; Rechter, Lotte; Farina, Dario

2010-05-01

To compare the behavior of sternocleidomastoid motor units of patients with chronic neck pain and healthy controls. Nine women (age, 40.4+/-3.5 yr) with chronic neck pain and nine age- and gender-matched healthy controls participated. Surface and intramuscular EMG were recorded from the sternocleidomastoid muscle bilaterally as subjects performed isometric contractions of 10-s duration in the horizontal plane at a force of 15 N in eight directions (0-360 degrees ; 45 degrees intervals) and isometric contractions at 15 and 30 N force with continuous change in force direction in the range 0-360 degrees . Motor unit behavior was monitored during the 10-s contractions and the subsequent resting periods. The mean motor unit discharge rate depended on the direction of force in the control subjects (P<0.05) but not in the patients. Moreover, in three of the nine patients, but in none of the controls, single motor unit activity continued for 8.1+/-6.1s upon completion of the contraction. The surface EMG amplitude during the circular contraction at 15N was greater for the patients (43.5+/-54.2 microV) compared to controls (16.9+/-14.9 microV; P<0.05). The modulation in discharge rate of individual motor units with force direction is reduced in the sternocleidomastoid muscle in patients with neck pain, with some patients showing prolonged motor unit activity when they were instructed to rest. These observations suggest that chronic neck pain affects the change in neural drive to muscles with force direction. Copyright 2009 International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Myosin dephosphorylation during rapid relaxation of hog carotid artery smooth muscle.

PubMed

Driska, S P; Stein, P G; Porter, R

1989-02-01

Changes in myosin light chain phosphorylation were measured during histamine-induced rhythmic contractions of hog carotid artery smooth muscle strips. Histamine made the muscle strips contract spontaneously every 1-5 min, and this allowed measurement of the time course of phosphorylation in relation to force development under conditions where diffusion of the agonist through tissue would not complicate the interpretation of the data. In the absence of histamine, phosphorylation was low [0.12 +/- 0.04 mol P/mol of the 20,000-Da light chain (LC 20)]. Phosphorylation was slightly (but not significantly) higher in the presence of 10 microM histamine in the relaxed state between contractions (0.20 +/- 0.03 mol P/mol LC 20). In muscle strips frozen during force development, when force had reached half of its peak value, phosphorylation was 0.38 +/- 0.06 mol P/mol LC 20. The highest levels of phosphorylation (0.49 +/- 0.04 mol P/mol LC 20) were found in strips frozen at the peak of the rhythmic contractions. Strips frozen when force had declined to half of the peak force showed low levels of phosphorylation (0.17 +/- 0.07 mol P/mol LC 20), indicating that the myosin light chain phosphatase activity was quite high. Mathematical modeling of the kinase and phosphatase reactions suggested that the apparent first-order phosphatase rate constant was at least 0.08 s-1 under these conditions. To obtain a better estimate of this rate constant, a second series of phosphorylation measurements were made early in the relaxation phase of the rhythmic contractions. The highest phosphatase rate constant obtained from these measurements was 0.23 s-1.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Pain judgements of patients' relatives: examining the use of social contract theory as theoretical framework.

PubMed

Kappesser, Judith; de C Williams, Amanda C

2008-08-01

Observer underestimation of others' pain was studied using a concept from evolutionary psychology: a cheater detection mechanism from social contract theory, applied to relatives and friends of chronic pain patients. 127 participants estimated characters' pain intensity and fairness of behaviour after reading four vignettes describing characters suffering from pain. Four cues were systematically varied: the character continuing or stopping liked tasks; continuing or stopping disliked tasks; availability of medical evidence; and pain intensity as rated by characters. Results revealed that pain intensity and the two behavioural variables had an effect on pain estimates: high pain self-reports and stopping all tasks led to high pain estimates; pain was estimated to be lowest when characters stopped disliked but continued with liked tasks. This combination was also rated least fair. Results support the use of social contract theory as a theoretical framework to explore pain judgements.

Influence of prolonged static stretching on motor unit firing properties.

PubMed

Ye, Xin; Beck, Travis W; Wages, Nathan P

2016-05-01

The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of a stretching intervention on motor control strategy of the biceps brachii muscle. Ten men performed twelve 100-s passive static stretches of the biceps brachii. Before and after the intervention, isometric strength was tested during maximal voluntary contractions (MVCs) of the elbow flexors. Subjects also performed trapezoid isometric contractions at 30% and 70% of MVC. Surface electromyographic signals from the submaximal contractions were decomposed into individual motor unit action potential trains. Linear regression analysis was used to examine the relationship between motor unit mean firing rate and recruitment threshold. The stretching intervention caused significant decreases in y-intercepts of the linear regression lines. In addition, linear slopes at both intensities remained unchanged. Despite reduced motor unit firing rates following the stretches, the motor control scheme remained unchanged. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Computerised electronic foetal heart rate monitoring in labour: automated contraction identification.

PubMed

Georgieva, A; Payne, S J; Redman, C W G

2009-12-01

The foetal heart rate (FHR) response to uterine contractions is crucial to detect foetal distress by electronic FHR monitoring during labour. We are developing a new automated system (OxSys) for decision support in labour, using the Oxford database of intrapartum FHR records. We describe here a novel technique for automated detection of uterus contractions. In addition, we present a comparison of the new method with four other computerised approaches. During training, OxSys achieved sensitivity above 95% and positive predictive value (PPV) of up to 90% for traces of good quality. During testing, OxSys achieved sensitivity = 87% and PPV = 75%. For comparison, a second clinical expert obtained sensitivity = 93% and PPV = 80%, and all other computerised approaches achieved lower values. It was concluded that the proposed method can be employed with confidence in our study on foetal health assessment in labour and future OxSys development.

Muscular contraction stimulates posterior hypothalamic neurons.

PubMed

Waldrop, T G; Stremel, R W

1989-02-01

Recent studies have suggested that the subthalamic locomotor region (STLR) of the posterior hypothalamus is involved in modulating cardiorespiratory responses to feedback from contracting muscles. The purpose of this study was to determine whether neurons in this hypothalamic region alter their discharge frequency during contraction of hindlimb muscles. Stainless steel electrodes were used to record single-unit activity of STLR neurons during static and rhythmic contractions of hindlimb muscles in anesthetized cats. Recordings were also made from neurons in areas outside but surrounding the subthalamic locomotor region. Contraction of the triceps surae muscles was induced by stimulation of the peripheral cut ends of the L7 and S1 ventral roots. Both static and rhythmic contractions of the triceps surae evoked an increase in the discharge rate of the majority of the STLR cells studied. Two types of excitatory responses were observed: 1) abrupt increases in discharge frequency at the onset of muscular contraction and 2) a delayed more gradual increase in firing. Most of the cells that responded to muscular contraction could be activated by mechanical probing of the triceps surae muscles. However, the changes in discharge frequency were unrelated to changes in arterial pressure occurring during muscular contraction. Most of the neurons located outside the STLR were slightly inhibited by or did not respond to muscular contraction. Thus input from contracting muscles exerts predominantly an excitatory effect on neurons in the posterior hypothalamus. These results are consistent with other studies which have concluded that this hypothalamic site is involved in influencing the cardiorespiratory responses to muscular contraction.

Perceived benefits of the use of learning contracts to guide clinical education in respiratory care students.

PubMed

Rye, Kathy Jones-Boggs

2008-11-01

The benefits of contract learning have been identified in the literature as increased individualization to meet the student's individual needs, promotion of learner independence, and development of lifelong learning behaviors among students. I used an "action research" approach to implement the contract-learning method into a clinical course. Clinical learning contracts were designed to provide students with the opportunity to focus on any identified areas of unsatisfactory or desired practice. The learning contract specified how the learner would acquire the knowledge and attitudes relevant to their selected learning experience. The learning contract was used as a learning tool and as evidence of the student's development in the clinical experience. Twenty-four senior respiratory therapy students in the College of Health Related Professions, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, prepared and used learning contracts during their Clinical Practicum IV. After they had completed the clinical practicum and received their grades, I surveyed the students about their experience with the learning-contract method. The surveys were administered anonymously. Twenty-one students (88%) returned the surveys. The respondents were overall quite optimistic regarding learning contracts. They generally agreed that they could use the learning contract with confidence and that there is an increase in student autonomy and motivation in scholarship with a learning contract. The median agree/disagree ratings on the survey ranged from 1 (strongly agree) to 2 (agree). Contract learning is favorable to students' knowledge and skill acquisition and can be incorporated into clinical education of respiratory care students.

Recruitment and rate coding organisation for soleus motor units across entire range of voluntary isometric plantar flexions.

PubMed

Oya, Tomomichi; Riek, Stephan; Cresswell, Andrew G

2009-10-01

Unlike upper limb muscles, it remains undocumented as to how motor units in the soleus muscle are organised in terms of recruitment range and discharge rates with respect to their recruitment and de-recruitment thresholds. The possible influence of neuromodulation, such as persistent inward currents (PICs) on lower limb motor unit recruitment and discharge rates has also yet to be reported. To address these issues, electromyographic (EMG) activities from the soleus muscle were recorded using selective branched-wire intramuscular electrodes during ramp-and-hold contractions with intensities up to maximal voluntary contraction (MVC). The multiple single motor unit activities were then derived using a decomposition technique. The onset-offset hysteresis of motor unit discharge, i.e. a difference between recruitment and de-recruitment thresholds, as well as PIC magnitude calculated by a paired motor unit analysis were used to examine the neuromodulatory effects on discharge behaviours, such as minimum firing rate, peak firing rate and degree of increase in firing rate. Forty-two clearly identified motor units from five subjects revealed that soleus motor units are recruited progressively from rest to contraction strengths close to 95% of MVC, with low-threshold motor units discharging action potentials slower at their recruitment and with a lower peak rate than later recruited high-threshold units. This observation is in contrast to the 'onion skin phenomenon' often reported for the upper limb muscles. Based on positive correlations of the peak discharge rates, initial rates and recruitment order of the units with the magnitude of the onset-offset hysteresis and not PIC contribution, we conclude that discharge behaviours among motor units appear to be related to a variation in an intrinsic property other than PICs.

The effects of changes in response-independent pay upon human masseter EMG. M.A. Thesis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Proni, T. J.

1973-01-01

Electromyographic activity of the masseter muscle was recorded in five human subjects who were presented with systematically varied rates of non-contingent pay. Rates of pay were varied between sessions in either a descending or an ascending series. The number of masseter contractions was found to be greater during the descending series than during the ascending series, especially when a descending series of pay changes followed an ascending series. Verbal physical displays of anger and aggression were noted during descending series. These data indicated a possible relation between masseter contractions and aggression.

Effects of 4 Weeks of Explosive-type Strength Training for the Plantar Flexors on the Rate of Torque Development and Postural Stability in Elderly Individuals.

PubMed

Kobayashi, Y; Ueyasu, Y; Yamashita, Y; Akagi, R

2016-06-01

This study aimed to investigate the effect of a 4-week explosive-type strength training program for the plantar flexors on the rate of torque development and postural stability. The participants were 56 elderly men and women divided into training (17 men and 15 women) and control (14 men and 10 women) groups. The participants in the training group underwent explosive-type strength training of the plantar flexors 2 days per week for 4 weeks. Training consisted of 3 sets of 10 repetitions of explosive plantar flexion lasting less than 1 s. The following parameters were determined: muscle volume of the plantar flexors estimated by the muscle thickness and lower leg length, maximal voluntary contraction torque and rate of torque development of plantar flexion, and one-leg standing ability. The training increased the maximal voluntary contraction torque and rate of torque development, but corresponding increases in muscle volume and one-leg standing ability were not found. These results suggest that, for elderly individuals, the 4-week explosive-type strength training of the plantar flexors is effective for increasing the maximal voluntary contraction torque and rate of torque development of plantar flexion but is not effective for improving postural stability. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Motor unit activity when young and old adults perform steady contractions while supporting an inertial load

PubMed Central

Gould, Jeffrey R.; Enoka, Roger M.

2013-01-01

The purpose of the study was to compare the discharge characteristics of biceps brachii motor units of young and old adults when they performed steady, submaximal contractions while the arm supported different inertial loads. Young (28 ± 4 yr; n = 16) and old (75 ± 4 yr; n = 14) adults performed steady contractions with the elbow flexors at target forces set at either small (11.7 ± 4.4% maximum) or large (17.8 ± 6.5% maximum) differences below the recruitment threshold force of the motor unit (n = 40). The task was to maintain an elbow angle at 1.57 rad until the motor unit was recruited and discharged action potentials for ∼120 s. Time to recruitment was longer for the larger target force difference (187 ± 227 s vs. 23 ± 46 s, P < 0.001). Once recruited, motor units discharged action potentials either repetitively or intermittently, with a greater proportion of motor units exhibiting the repetitive pattern for old adults. Discharge rate at recruitment and during the steady contraction was similar for the two target force differences for old adults but was greater for the small target force difference for young adults. Discharge variability was similar at recruitment for the two age groups but less for the old adults during the steady contraction. The greatest difference between the present results and those reported previously when the arm pulled against a rigid restraint was that old adults modulated discharge rate less than young adults across the two contraction intensities for both load types. PMID:23221403

Tachycardia | Fast Heart Rate

MedlinePlus

... sinoatrial (SA) node --- the heart's natural pacemaker. A series of early beats in the atria speeds up the heart rate. The rapid heartbeat does not allow enough time for the heart to fill before it contracts ...

Resistance properties of coal-water slurry flowing through local piping fittings

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

Liu, Meng; Duan, Yu Feng

2009-07-15

Local resistance characteristics of coal-water slurry (CWS) flowing through three types of piping components, namely gradual contractions, sudden contractions and 90 horizontal bends, were investigated at a transportation test facility. The results show that CWS exhibits different rheological behaviors, i.e., the shear-thinning, Newtonian, and shear-thicken, at different shear rates. When CWS flows through the gradual contractions, the local pressure loss firstly decreases to a minimum, and then increases as the gradual contraction angle ({theta}) increases. When the CWS flow through the sudden contractions, with the increase of pipe diameter ratio ({beta}), the local pressure loss increases for the two kindsmore » of CWS, SHEN-HUA (S-H) CWS and YAN-ZHOU (Y-Z) CWS whose mass concentration range from 57% to 59% and 59% to 62%, respectively. For 90 horizontal bends, there is an optimal value of the bend diameter ratio (Rc/D) at which the local pressure loss is the least. Furthermore, the local resistance coefficient (K) in the empirical correlations is determined from the experimental data. The correlations show that as Re increases, K of the three fittings declines quickly at first. However, with further increase in Re, K shows different behaviors for the three fittings due to the special rheological property of CWS at higher shear rates. The factors of {theta}, {beta} and Rc/D have minor effects on K. (author)« less

Resistance properties of coal-water slurry flowing through local piping fittings

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

Meng, L.; Duan, Y.F.

2009-07-15

Local resistance characteristics of coal-water slurry (CWS) flowing through three types of piping components, namely gradual contractions, sudden contractions and 90 horizontal bends, were investigated at a transportation test facility. The results show that CWS exhibits different rheological behaviors, i.e., the shear-thinning, Newtonian, and shear-thicken, at different shear rates. When CWS flows through the gradual contractions, the local pressure loss firstly decreases to a minimum, and then increases as the gradual contraction angle {theta} increases. When the CWS flow through the sudden contractions, with the increase of pipe diameter ratio {beta}, the local pressure loss increases for the two kindsmore » of CWS, SHEN-HUA (S-H) CWS and YAN-ZHOU (Y-Z) CWS whose mass concentration range from 57% to 59% and 59% to 62%, respectively. For 90 horizontal bends, there is an optimal value of the bend diameter ratio (Rc/D) at which the local pressure loss is the least. Furthermore, the local resistance coefficient (K) in the empirical correlations is determined from the experimental data. The correlations show that as Re increases, K of the three fittings declines quickly at first. However, with further increase in Re, K shows different behaviors for the three fittings due to the special rheological property of CWS at higher shear rates. The factors of theta, beta and Rc/D have minor effects on K.« less

SarcOptiM for ImageJ: high-frequency online sarcomere length computing on stimulated cardiomyocytes.

PubMed

Pasqualin, Côme; Gannier, François; Yu, Angèle; Malécot, Claire O; Bredeloux, Pierre; Maupoil, Véronique

2016-08-01

Accurate measurement of cardiomyocyte contraction is a critical issue for scientists working on cardiac physiology and physiopathology of diseases implying contraction impairment. Cardiomyocytes contraction can be quantified by measuring sarcomere length, but few tools are available for this, and none is freely distributed. We developed a plug-in (SarcOptiM) for the ImageJ/Fiji image analysis platform developed by the National Institutes of Health. SarcOptiM computes sarcomere length via fast Fourier transform analysis of video frames captured or displayed in ImageJ and thus is not tied to a dedicated video camera. It can work in real time or offline, the latter overcoming rotating motion or displacement-related artifacts. SarcOptiM includes a simulator and video generator of cardiomyocyte contraction. Acquisition parameters, such as pixel size and camera frame rate, were tested with both experimental recordings of rat ventricular cardiomyocytes and synthetic videos. It is freely distributed, and its source code is available. It works under Windows, Mac, or Linux operating systems. The camera speed is the limiting factor, since the algorithm can compute online sarcomere shortening at frame rates >10 kHz. In conclusion, SarcOptiM is a free and validated user-friendly tool for studying cardiomyocyte contraction in all species, including human. Copyright © 2016 the American Physiological Society.

41 CFR 102-117.55 - What are the advantages and disadvantages of using a rate tender?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... and disadvantages of using a rate tender? 102-117.55 Section 102-117.55 Public Contracts and Property... the advantages and disadvantages of using a rate tender? (a) Using a rate tender is an advantage when... volume to obtain favorable rates. (b) Using a rate tender may be a disadvantage when: (1) You have...

48 CFR 42.704 - Billing rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... officer (or cognizant Federal agency official) or auditor responsible under 42.705 for establishing the... contracting officer (or cognizant Federal agency official) or auditor shall establish billing rates on the... officer (or cognizant Federal agency official) or auditor should ensure that the billing rates are as...

Temperature rise in ion-leachable cements during setting reaction.

PubMed

Kanchanavasita, W; Pearson, G J; Anstice, H M

1995-11-01

Resin-modified ion-leachable cements have been developed for use as aesthetic restorative materials. Their apparent improved physical and handling properties can make them more attractive for use than conventional glass-ionomers. However, they contain monomers which are known to contract on polymerization and produce a polymerization exotherm. This study evaluated the temperature rise during setting and the rate of dimensional change of several ion-leachable materials. The resin-modified ion-leachable cements demonstrated greater temperature rises and higher rates of contraction than conventional materials. Generally, the behaviour of these resin-modified materials was similar to that of composite resins. However, some resin-modified cements produced a temperature rise of up to 20 degrees C during polymerization which was greater than that of the composite resin. This temperature rise must be taken into account when using the materials in direct contact with dentine in deep cavities without pulp protection. Longer irradiation time than the recommended 20 s did not significantly increase the maximum temperature rise but slightly extended the time before the temperature started to decline. The temperature of the environment had a significant effect on the rate of dimensional change in some materials. The rate of polymerization contraction of light-activated cements was directly related to the observed temperature rise.

31 CFR 901.9 - Interest, penalties, and administrative costs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... charges. (b) Agencies shall charge interest on debts owed the United States as follows: (1) Interest shall... a contract, repayment agreement, or by statute, the rate of interest charged shall be the rate... may charge a higher rate of interest if it reasonably determines that a higher rate is necessary to...

34 CFR Appendix A to Part 74 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... suspected or reported violations to the Federal awarding agency. 4. Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards... mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work... basic rate of pay for all hours worked in excess of 40 hours in the work week. Section 107 of the Act is...

36 CFR Appendix A to Part 1210 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... suspected or reported violations to the Federal awarding agency. 4. Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards... mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work... basic rate of pay for all hours worked in excess of 40 hours in the work week. Section 107 of the Act is...

32 CFR Appendix A to Part 34 - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work... basic rate of pay for all hours worked in excess of 40 hours in the work week. Section 107 of the Act is... laborers shall include a provision for compliance with Sections 102 and 107 of the Contract Work Hours and...

10 CFR Appendix A to Subpart B of... - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... suspected or reported violations to the Federal awarding agency. 4. Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards... mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work... basic rate of pay for all hours worked in excess of 40 hours in the work week. Section 107 of the Act is...

48 CFR 52.241-7 - Change in Rates or Terms and Conditions of Service for Regulated Services.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... regulatory body. The Contractor agrees to give written notice of (1) the filing of an application for change...) any changes pending with the regulatory body as of the date of contract award. Such notice shall fully describe the proposed change. If, during the term of this contract, the regulatory body having jurisdiction...

48 CFR 52.241-7 - Change in Rates or Terms and Conditions of Service for Regulated Services.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... regulatory body. The Contractor agrees to give written notice of (1) the filing of an application for change...) any changes pending with the regulatory body as of the date of contract award. Such notice shall fully describe the proposed change. If, during the term of this contract, the regulatory body having jurisdiction...

48 CFR 52.241-7 - Change in Rates or Terms and Conditions of Service for Regulated Services.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... regulatory body. The Contractor agrees to give written notice of (1) the filing of an application for change...) any changes pending with the regulatory body as of the date of contract award. Such notice shall fully describe the proposed change. If, during the term of this contract, the regulatory body having jurisdiction...

48 CFR 52.241-7 - Change in Rates or Terms and Conditions of Service for Regulated Services.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... regulatory body. The Contractor agrees to give written notice of (1) the filing of an application for change...) any changes pending with the regulatory body as of the date of contract award. Such notice shall fully describe the proposed change. If, during the term of this contract, the regulatory body having jurisdiction...

Observations of Gas-Liquid Flows Through Contractions in Microgravity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McQuillen, John

1996-01-01

Tests were conducted for an air-water flow through two sudden contractions aboard the NASA DC-9 low gravity aircraft. Flow rate, residual accelerations, void fraction, film thickness, and pressure drop data were recorded and flow visualization at 250 images per second were recorded. Some preliminary results based on the flow visualization data are presented for bubbly, slug and annular flow.

48 CFR 52.232-7 - Payments under Time-and-Materials and Labor-Hour Contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... the Contractor to withhold amounts from its billings until a reserve is set aside in an amount that... Disputes clause of this contract. If the Schedule provides rates for overtime, the premium portion of those... Contractor shall not deduct from gross costs the benefits lost without fault or neglect on the part of the...

Precarious employment and health: analysis of the Comprehensive National Survey in Japan.

PubMed

Tsurugano, Shinobu; Inoue, Mariko; Yano, Eiji

2012-01-01

Recent studies suggest that unstable employment contracts may affect the health of workers. Many Japanese workers working full time in ostensibly permanent positions actually operate within unstable and precarious employment conditions. We compared the health status of Japanese workers with precarious employment contracts with that of permanent workers using the 2007 Comprehensive Survey of Living Conditions of the People on Health and Welfare (n=205,994). We classified their employment status as 'permanent' vs. 'precarious' (part-time, dispatch, or contract/non-regular) and compared their health conditions. Among both sexes, precarious workers were more likely than permanent workers to have poor self-rated health or more subjective symptoms, with more workers in full-time employment suffering from serious psychological distress (SPD) and more female workers who smoke. Using logistic regression, we identified a positive association between precarious employment and SPD and current smoking among workers engaged in full-time employment after adjusting for age, marital status, and work-related conditions. This study demonstrates that precarious employment contracts are associated with poor self-rated health, psychological distress, and tobacco use, especially among people working full-time jobs. These results suggest that engagement in full-time work under unstable employment status impairs workers' health.

Effect of cold pressor stimulation (4 degrees C) on human masseter muscle haemodynamics during and after sustained isometric contraction.

PubMed

Maekawa, K; Kuboki, T; Yamashita, A; Clark, G T

1999-11-01

The effect of cold pressor (CP) stimulation and sustained isometric contraction on the blood volume of the right masseter muscle was examined in seven healthy males, who performed 1 min of isometric jaw clenching at 50% of their maximum voluntary contraction without, with and again without a 4 degrees C CP stimulation. Total haemoglobin was measured in the masseter before, during and after the contraction task using near-infrared spectroscopy. CP stimulation during the isometric contraction diminished the magnitude of the contraction-induced decrease of blood volume when compared to the trials without CP stimulation. However, in the immediate post-contraction period (while the CP stimulation was still in place), no increase in blood volume above the usual post-contraction hyperaemia was evident. Once the CP stimulation had been removed, there was a clear decrease (faster return to baseline) in the vasodilation occurring in the post-contraction period. This diminished period of vasodilation occurred in spite of the fact that the vascular resistance (blood pressure) and heart rate were still substantially elevated by the CP effect during this same period. These data suggest that the strong CP stimulation produced a biphasic response. First, there was an early-onset strong vasodilation (during CP), which was followed by a period of diminished vasodilation, suggesting that an active, but delayed, vasoconstrictive drive may be induced by the CP stimulus.

10 CFR 903.21 - Completion of rate development; provisional rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

.... (a) Following completion of the consultation and comment period and review of any oral and written... be sooner when appropriate to meet a contract deadline, to avoid financial difficulties, to provide a...

10 CFR 903.21 - Completion of rate development; provisional rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

.... (a) Following completion of the consultation and comment period and review of any oral and written... be sooner when appropriate to meet a contract deadline, to avoid financial difficulties, to provide a...

10 CFR 903.21 - Completion of rate development; provisional rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

.... (a) Following completion of the consultation and comment period and review of any oral and written... be sooner when appropriate to meet a contract deadline, to avoid financial difficulties, to provide a...

10 CFR 903.21 - Completion of rate development; provisional rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

.... (a) Following completion of the consultation and comment period and review of any oral and written... be sooner when appropriate to meet a contract deadline, to avoid financial difficulties, to provide a...

10 CFR 903.21 - Completion of rate development; provisional rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

.... (a) Following completion of the consultation and comment period and review of any oral and written... be sooner when appropriate to meet a contract deadline, to avoid financial difficulties, to provide a...

Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT)

MedlinePlus

PSVT; Supraventricular tachycardia; Abnormal heart rhythm - PSVT; Arrhythmia - PSVT; Rapid heart rate - PSVT; Fast heart rate - PSVT ... Normally, the chambers of the heart (atria and ventricles) contract in ... are caused by an electrical signal that begins in an area ...

Behavioral treatment of obesity in patients with Prader-Willi syndrome.

PubMed

Altman, K; Bondy, A; Hirsch, G

1978-12-01

Self-monitoring combined with contingency contracting resulted in weight loss, modification of dysfunctional eating habits, and increased or sustained exercise rates for two obese, mentally retarded adolescent females with Prader-Willi syndrome. Contingency contracting between clients and their parents/caregivers was used to specify consequences for daily self-monitoring, reduced caloric intake, weight loss, and exercise. Punishment for food stealing was also employed. Results suggest that contingency contracting is an effective technique for producing long-term weight loss in obese mentally retarded adolescents. Further, these techniques offer an alternative to the clinician considering solely dietary restriction or surgical intervention.

Fluid dynamics alter Caenorhabditis elegans body length via TGF-β/DBL-1 neuromuscular signaling

PubMed Central

Harada, Shunsuke; Hashizume, Toko; Nemoto, Kanako; Shao, Zhenhua; Higashitani, Nahoko; Etheridge, Timothy; Szewczyk, Nathaniel J; Fukui, Keiji; Higashibata, Akira; Higashitani, Atsushi

2016-01-01

Skeletal muscle wasting is a major obstacle for long-term space exploration. Similar to astronauts, the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans displays negative muscular and physical effects when in microgravity in space. It remains unclear what signaling molecules and behavior(s) cause these negative alterations. Here we studied key signaling molecules involved in alterations of C. elegans physique in response to fluid dynamics in ground-based experiments. Placing worms in space on a 1G accelerator increased a myosin heavy chain, myo-3, and a transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), dbl-1, gene expression. These changes also occurred when the fluid dynamic parameters viscosity/drag resistance or depth of liquid culture were increased on the ground. In addition, body length increased in wild type and body wall cuticle collagen mutants, rol-6 and dpy-5, grown in liquid culture. In contrast, body length did not increase in TGF-β, dbl-1, or downstream signaling pathway, sma-4/Smad, mutants. Similarly, a D1-like dopamine receptor, DOP-4, and a mechanosensory channel, UNC-8, were required for increased dbl-1 expression and altered physique in liquid culture. As C. elegans contraction rates are much higher when swimming in liquid than when crawling on an agar surface, we also examined the relationship between body length enhancement and rate of contraction. Mutants with significantly reduced contraction rates were typically smaller. However, in dop-4, dbl-1, and sma-4 mutants, contraction rates still increased in liquid. These results suggest that neuromuscular signaling via TGF-β/DBL-1 acts to alter body physique in response to environmental conditions including fluid dynamics. PMID:28725724

Effects of Dai-kenchu-to on spontaneous activity in the mouse small intestine.

PubMed

Kito, Yoshihiko; Suzuki, Hikaru

2006-12-01

The effects of Dai-kenchu-to (DKT), a Chinese medicine, on spontaneous activity of mouse small intestine were investigated. Experiments were carried out with tension recording and intracellular recording. DKT contracted mouse longitudinal smooth muscles in a dose dependent manner (0.1-10 mg/ml). Low concentration of DKT (0.1 mg/ml) did not contract the longitudinal muscles of mouse small intestine. DKT (0.1 mg/ml) inhibited contraction elicited by transmural nerve stimulation (TNS). DKT (1 mg/ml) evoked relaxation before contraction. The initial relaxation was abolished by Nomega-nitro-L-arginine (L-NNA). DKT (10 mg/ml)-induced contraction had two components: a transient rapid contraction and a following slow contraction. Atropine inhibited DKT (1 mg/ml)-induced contraction to about 50% of control. In the presence of atropine, tetrodotoxin (TTX) inhibited the contraction elicited by DKT (1 mg/ml) to about 80%. DKT depolarized the membrane and decreased the amplitude of pacemaker potentials recorded from in situ myenteric interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC-MY) with no alteration to the frequency, duration and maximum rates of rise in the presence of nifedipine and TTX. The same results were obtained in slow waves recorded from circular smooth muscle cells. These results indicate that DKT evoked both contraction and relaxation by releasing acetylcholine, nitric oxide and other excitatory neurotransmitters in mouse small intestine. DKT had no effects on pacemaker mechanisms and electrical coupling between ICC-MY and smooth muscle cells in mouse small intestine. The results also suggest that DKT may contract smooth muscles by depolarizing the membrane directly.

Cardiac function in children with premature ventricular contractions: the effect of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation.

PubMed

Oner, Taliha; Ozdemir, Rahmi; Doksöz, Onder; Genc, Dildar B; Guven, Baris; Demirpence, Savas; Yilmazer, Murat M; Yozgat, Yilmaz; Mese, Timur; Tavli, Vedide

2018-07-01

Premature ventricular contractions are accepted as benign in structurally normal hearts. However, reversible cardiomyopathy can sometimes develop. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids have anti-arrhythmic properties in animals and humans.AimWe evaluated left ventricular function in children with premature ventricular contractions with normal cardiac anatomy and assessed the impact of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on left ventricular function in a prospective trial. A total of 25 patients with premature ventricular contraction, with more than 2% premature ventricular contractions on 24-hour Holter electrocardiography, and 30 healthy patients were included into study. All patients underwent electrocardiography, left ventricular M-mode echocardiography, and myocardial performance index testing. Patients with premature ventricular contraction were given omega-3 fatty acids at a dose of 1 g/day for 3 months, and control echocardiography and 24-hour Holter electrocardiography were performed. Neither placebo nor omega-3 fatty acids were given to the control group. Compared with the values of the control group, the patients with premature ventricular contraction had significantly lower fractional shortening. The myocardial performance index decreased markedly in the patient groups. The mean heart rate and mean premature ventricular contraction percentage of Group 2 significantly decreased in comparison with their baseline values after the omega-3 supplementation. In conclusion, premature ventricular contractions can lead to systolic cardiac dysfunction in children. Omega-3 supplementation may improve cardiac function in children with premature ventricular contractions. This is the first study conducted in children to investigate the possible role of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on treatment of premature ventricular contractions.

Imaging two-dimensional mechanical waves of skeletal muscle contraction.

PubMed

Grönlund, Christer; Claesson, Kenji; Holtermann, Andreas

2013-02-01

Skeletal muscle contraction is related to rapid mechanical shortening and thickening. Recently, specialized ultrasound systems have been applied to demonstrate and quantify transient tissue velocities and one-dimensional (1-D) propagation of mechanical waves during muscle contraction. Such waves could potentially provide novel information on musculoskeletal characteristics, function and disorders. In this work, we demonstrate two-dimensional (2-D) mechanical wave imaging following the skeletal muscle contraction. B-mode image acquisition during multiple consecutive electrostimulations, speckle-tracking and a time-stamp sorting protocol were used to obtain 1.4 kHz frame rate 2-D tissue velocity imaging of the biceps brachii muscle contraction. The results present novel information on tissue velocity profiles and mechanical wave propagation. In particular, counter-propagating compressional and shear waves in the longitudinal direction were observed in the contracting tissue (speed 2.8-4.4 m/s) and a compressional wave in the transverse direction of the non-contracting muscle tissue (1.2-1.9 m/s). In conclusion, analysing transient 2-D tissue velocity allows simultaneous assessment of both active and passive muscle tissue properties. Copyright © 2013 World Federation for Ultrasound in Medicine & Biology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Screening of cardiomyocyte fluorescence during cell contraction by multi-dimensional TCSPC

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chorvat, D., Jr.; Abdulla, S.; Elzwiei, F.; Mateasik, A.; Chorvatova, A.

2008-02-01

Autofluorescence is one of the most versatile non-invasive tools for mapping the metabolic state of living tissues, such as the heart. We present a new approach to the investigation of changes in endogenous fluorescence during cardiomyocyte contraction - by spectrally-resolved, time correlated, single photon counting (TCSPC). Cell contraction is stimulated by external platinum electrodes, incorporated in a home-made bath and triggered by a pulse generator at a frequency of 0.5 Hz (to stabilize sarcoplasmic reticulum loading), or 5 Hz (the rat heart rate). Cell illumination by the laser is synchronized with cell contraction, using TTL logic pulses operated by a stimulator and delayed to study mitochondrial metabolism at maximum contraction (10-110 ms) and/or at steady state (1000-1100 ms at 0.5 Hz). To test the setup, we recorded calcium transients in cells loaded with the Fluo-3 fluorescent probe (excited by 475 nm pulsed picosecond diode laser). We then evaluated recordings of flavin AF (excited by 438 nm pulsed laser) at room and physiological temperatures. Application of the presented approach will shed new insight into metabolic changes in living, contracting myocytes and, therefore, regulation of excitation-contraction coupling and/or ionic homeostasis and, thus, heart excitability.

Effects of axisymmetric contractions on turbulence of various scales

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tan-Atichat, J.; Nagib, H. M.; Drubka, R. E.

1980-01-01

Digitally acquired and processed results from an experimental investigation of grid generated turbulence of various scales through and downstream of nine matched cubic contour contractions ranging in area ratio from 2 to 36, and in length to inlet diameter ratio from 0.25 to 1.50 are reported. An additional contraction with a fifth order contour was also utilized for studying the shape effect. Thirteen homogeneous and nearly isotropic test flow conditions with a range of turbulence intensities, length scales and Reynolds numbers were generated and used to examine the sensitivity of the contractions to upstream turbulence. The extent to which the turbulence is altered by the contraction depends on the incoming turbulence scales, the total strain experienced by the fluid, as well as the contraction ratio and the strain rate. Varying the turbulence integral scale influences the transverse turbulence components more than the streamwise component. In general, the larger the turbulence scale, the lesser the reduction in the turbulence intensity of the transverse components. Best agreement with rapid distortion theory was obtained for large scale turbulence, where viscous decay over the contraction length was negligible, or when a first order correction for viscous decay was applied to the results.

Why does walking economy improve after weight loss in obese adolescents?

PubMed

Peyrot, Nicolas; Thivel, David; Isacco, Laurie; Morin, Jean-Benoît; Belli, Alain; Duche, Pascale

2012-04-01

This study tested the hypothesis that the increase in walking economy (i.e., decrease in net metabolic rate per kilogram) after weight loss in obese adolescents is induced by a lower metabolic rate required to support the lower body weight and maintain balance during walking. Sixteen obese adolescent boys and girls were tested before and after a weight reduction program. Body composition and oxygen uptake while standing and walking at four preset speeds (0.75, 1, 1.25, and 1.5 m·s⁻¹) and at the preferred speed were quantified. Net metabolic rate and gross metabolic cost of walking-versus-speed relationships were determined. A three-compartment model was used to distinguish the respective parts of the metabolic rate associated with standing (compartment 1), maintaining balance and supporting body weight during walking (compartment 2), and muscle contractions required to move the center of mass and limbs (compartment 3). Standing metabolic rate per kilogram (compartment 1) significantly increased after weight loss, whereas net metabolic rate per kilogram during walking decreased by 9% on average across speeds. Consequently, the gross metabolic cost of walking per unit of distance-versus-speed relationship and hence preferred walking speeds did not change with weight loss. Compartment 2 of the model was significantly lower after weight loss, whereas compartment 3 did not change. The model showed that the improvement in walking economy after weight loss in obese adolescents was likely related to the lower metabolic rate of the isometric muscular contractions required to support the lower body weight and maintain balance during walking. Contrastingly, the part of the total metabolic rate associated with muscle contractions required to move the center of mass and limbs did not seem to be related to the improvement in walking economy in weight-reduced individuals.

48 CFR 252.217-7001 - Surge option.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... sustainable rate of delivery for items in this contract. This delivery schedule shall provide acceleration by month up to the maximum sustainable rate of delivery achievable within the Contractor's existing... than the maximum sustainable delivery rate under paragraph (b)(2) of this clause, nor will the exercise...

48 CFR 252.217-7001 - Surge option.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... sustainable rate of delivery for items in this contract. This delivery schedule shall provide acceleration by month up to the maximum sustainable rate of delivery achievable within the Contractor's existing... than the maximum sustainable delivery rate under paragraph (b)(2) of this clause, nor will the exercise...

48 CFR 252.217-7001 - Surge option.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... sustainable rate of delivery for items in this contract. This delivery schedule shall provide acceleration by month up to the maximum sustainable rate of delivery achievable within the Contractor's existing... than the maximum sustainable delivery rate under paragraph (b)(2) of this clause, nor will the exercise...

48 CFR 252.217-7001 - Surge option.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... sustainable rate of delivery for items in this contract. This delivery schedule shall provide acceleration by month up to the maximum sustainable rate of delivery achievable within the Contractor's existing... than the maximum sustainable delivery rate under paragraph (b)(2) of this clause, nor will the exercise...

Health Insurance as a Two-Part Pricing Contract *

PubMed Central

Lakdawalla, Darius; Sood, Neeraj

2013-01-01

Monopolies appear throughout health care. We show that health insurance operates like a conventional two-part pricing contract that allows monopolists to extract profits without inefficiently constraining quantity. When insurers are free to offer a range of insurance contracts to different consumer types, health insurance markets perfectly eliminate deadweight losses from upstream health care monopolies. Frictions limiting the sorting of different consumer types into different insurance contracts restore some of these upstream monopoly losses, which manifest as higher rates of uninsurance, rather than as restrictions in quantity utilized by insured consumers. Empirical analysis of pharmaceutical patent expiration supports the prediction that heavily insured markets experience little or no efficiency loss under monopoly, while less insured markets exhibit behavior more consistent with the standard theory of monopoly. PMID:23997354

7 CFR 1717.308 - RUS approval of nonconforming rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... Federal Pre-emption in Rate Making in Connection With Power Supply Borrowers § 1717.308 RUS approval of... of the RUS wholesale power contract and other RUS documents if RUS determines, in its sole discretion...

7 CFR 1717.308 - RUS approval of nonconforming rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... Federal Pre-emption in Rate Making in Connection With Power Supply Borrowers § 1717.308 RUS approval of... of the RUS wholesale power contract and other RUS documents if RUS determines, in its sole discretion...

CICATRIZATION OF WOUNDS

PubMed Central

Carrel, Alexis; Hartmann, Alice

1916-01-01

1. A method for measuring the area of a wound not geometric in form is described. 2. The rate of cicatrization of a wound is greater at the beginning than at the end of the period of repair. It depends on the area rather than on the age of the wound. There is a constant relation between the size of a wound and the rate of cicatrization. The larger the wound the greater is the rate of cicatrization. Two wounds of different size have a tendency to become equal. 3. The rate is proportional to the area, but diminishes less rapidly than the area. 4. The process of contraction is the more important factor in the repair of a wound. Epidermization completes the work of contraction. After the wound is healed, the cicatrix as a rule expands. 5. The curve representing the diminution of the size of an aseptic wound while it cicatrizes is regular and geometric. PMID:19868052

Reinnervation of the lateral gastrocnemius and soleus muscles in the rat by their common nerve.

PubMed Central

Gillespie, M J; Gordon, T; Murphy, P R

1986-01-01

To determine whether there is any specificity of regenerating nerves for their original muscles, the common lateral gastrocnemius soleus nerve (l.g.s.) innervating the fast-twitch lateral gastrocnemius (l.g.) and slow-twitch soleus muscles was sectioned in the hind limb of twenty adult rats. The proximal nerve stump was sutured to the dorsal surface of the l.g. muscle and 4-14 months later, the contractile properties of the reinnervated l.g. and soleus muscles and their single motor units were studied by dissection and stimulation of the ventral root filaments. Contractile properties of normal contralateral muscles were examined for comparison and motor units were isolated in l.g. and soleus muscles for study in a group of untreated animals. Measurement of time and rate parameters of maximal twitch and tetanic contractions showed that the rate of development of force increased significantly in reinnervated soleus muscles and approached the speed of l.g. muscles but rate of relaxation did not change appreciably. In reinnervated l.g. muscles, contraction speed was similar to normal l.g. muscles but relaxation rate declined toward the rates of relaxation in control soleus muscles. After reinnervation by the common l.g.s. nerve, the proportion of slow motor units in l.g. increased from 10 to 31% and decreased in soleus from 80 to 31%. The relative proportions of fast and slow motor units in each muscle were the same as the proportions of fast and slow units in the normal l.g. and soleus muscles combined. It was concluded that fast and slow muscles do not show any preference for their former nerves and that the change in the force profile of the reinnervated muscles is indicative of the relative proportions of fast and slow motor units: fast units dominate the contraction phase and slow units the relaxation phase of twitch and tetanic contractions of the muscle. PMID:3723414

Reducing Truancy in Students with Mild Handicaps.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hess, Albert M.; And Others

1990-01-01

Contingency contracting and group counseling were provided to 26 mildly to moderately handicapped middle school students with high rates of truancy. Subjects exhibited attendance gains after treatment; gains were not maintained at followup but attendance rates were still higher than the rates of control students. Measures of academic performance…

7 CFR 632.17 - Cost-share rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... level required to obtain participation if the main benefits of reclamation are offsite (in the public... 7 Agriculture 6 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Cost-share rates. 632.17 Section 632.17 Agriculture... AGRICULTURE LONG TERM CONTRACTING RURAL ABANDONED MINE PROGRAM Qualifications § 632.17 Cost-share rates. (a...

48 CFR 22.1002-2 - Wage determinations based on prevailing rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Wage determinations based on prevailing rates. 22.1002-2 Section 22.1002-2 Federal Acquisition Regulations System FEDERAL... Contract Act of 1965, as Amended 22.1002-2 Wage determinations based on prevailing rates. Contractors...

36 CFR 223.63 - Advertised rates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 2 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Advertised rates. 223.63... DISPOSAL OF NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM TIMBER Timber Sale Contracts Appraisal and Pricing § 223.63 Advertised rates. Timber shall be advertised for sale at its appraised value. The road construction cost used to...

48 CFR 22.1016 - Statement of equivalent rates for Federal hires.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Statement of equivalent rates for Federal hires. 22.1016 Section 22.1016 Federal Acquisition Regulations System FEDERAL... Contract Act of 1965, as Amended 22.1016 Statement of equivalent rates for Federal hires. (a) The statement...

48 CFR 22.1016 - Statement of equivalent rates for Federal hires.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Statement of equivalent rates for Federal hires. 22.1016 Section 22.1016 Federal Acquisition Regulations System FEDERAL... Contract Act of 1965, as Amended 22.1016 Statement of equivalent rates for Federal hires. (a) The statement...

12 CFR 707.2 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... new or existing account. (c) Annual percentage yield means a percentage rate reflecting the total amount of dividends paid on an account, based on the dividend rate and the frequency of compounding for a... which the simple dividend rate may change after the account is opened, unless the credit union contracts...

Origins of Negative Strain Rate Dependence of Stress Corrosion Cracking Initiation in Alloy 690, and Intergranular Crack Formation in Thermally Treated Alloy 690

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Young Suk; Kim, Sung Soo

2016-09-01

We show that enhanced stress corrosion cracking (SCC) initiation in cold-rolled Alloy 690 with decreasing strain rate is related to the rate of short-range ordering (SRO) but not to the time-dependent corrosion process. Evidence for SRO is provided by aging tests on cold-rolled Alloy 690 at 623 K and 693 K (350 °C and 420 °C), respectively, which demonstrate its enhanced lattice contraction and hardness increase with aging temperature and time, respectively. Secondary intergranular cracks formed only in thermally treated and cold-rolled Alloy 690 during SCC tests, which are not SCC cracks, are caused by its lattice contraction by SRO before SCC tests but not by the orientation effect.

78 FR 15076 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; Chicago Board Options Exchange, Incorporated; Notice of Filing and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-03-08

... Exchange's proprietary index options products, and the Proprietary Index Options Rate Table will apply to SPXPM (as such, SPXPM, like SPX, will be excluded from the Exchange's other Index Options Rate Table... follows (all listed rates are per contract): \\4\\ See Exchange Fees Schedule, Index Options Rate Table--All...

15 CFR 700.11 - Priority ratings.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... DO-A1 or DX-A1 priority rating. A contract for a radar set will contain a DO-A7 or DX-A7 priority... 15 Commerce and Foreign Trade 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Priority ratings. 700.11 Section 700... DEFENSE PRIORITIES AND ALLOCATIONS SYSTEM Industrial Priorities § 700.11 Priority ratings. (a) Levels of...

Blood clots are rapidly assembled hemodynamic sensors: flow arrest triggers intraluminal thrombus contraction.

PubMed

Muthard, Ryan W; Diamond, Scott L

2012-12-01

Blood clots form under flow during intravascular thrombosis or vessel leakage. Prevailing hemodynamics influence thrombus structure and may regulate contraction processes. A microfluidic device capable of flowing human blood over a side channel plugged with collagen (± tissue factor) was used to measure thrombus permeability (κ) and contraction at controlled transthrombus pressure drops. The collagen (κ(collagen)=1.98 × 10(-11) cm(2)) supported formation of a 20-µm thick platelet layer, which unexpectedly underwent massive platelet retraction on flow arrest. This contraction resulted in a 5.34-fold increase in permeability because of collagen restructuring. Without stopping flow, platelet deposits (no fibrin) had a permeability of κ(platelet)=5.45 × 10(-14) cm(2) and platelet-fibrin thrombi had κ(thrombus)=2.71 × 10(-14) cm(2) for ΔP=20.7 to 23.4 mm Hg, the first ever measurements for clots formed under arterial flow (1130 s(-1) wall shear rate). Platelet sensing of flow cessation triggered a 4.6- to 6.5-fold (n=3, P<0.05) increase in contraction rate, which was also observed in a rigid, impermeable parallel-plate microfluidic device. This triggered contraction was blocked by the myosin IIA inhibitor blebbistatin and by inhibitors of thromboxane A2 (TXA(2)) and ADP signaling. In addition, flow arrest triggered platelet intracellular calcium mobilization, which was blocked by TXA(2)/ADP inhibitors. As clots become occlusive or blood pools following vessel leakage, the flow diminishes, consequently allowing full platelet retraction. Flow dilution of ADP and thromboxane regulates platelet contractility with prevailing hemodynamics, a newly defined flow-sensing mechanism to regulate clot function.

Blood clots are rapidly assembled hemodynamic sensors: Flow arrest triggers intraluminal thrombus contraction

PubMed Central

Muthard, Ryan W.; Diamond, Scott L.

2012-01-01

Objective Blood clots form under flow during intravascular thrombosis or vessel leakage. Prevailing hemodynamics influence thrombus structure and may regulate contraction processes. A microfluidic device capable of flowing human blood over a side channel plugged with collagen (± tissue factor) was used to measure thrombus permeability (κ) and contraction at controlled transthrombus pressure drops. Methods and Results The collagen (κcollagen = 1.98 × 10−11 cm2) supported formation of a 20-μm thick platelet layer, which unexpectedly underwent massive platelet retraction upon flow arrest. This contraction resulted in a 5.34-fold increase in permeability due to collagen restructuring. Without stopping flow, platelet deposits (no fibrin) had a permeability of κplatelet = 5.45 × 10−14 cm2 and platelet-fibrin thrombi had κthrombus = 2.71 × 10−14 cm2 for ΔP = 20.7 to 23.4 mm-Hg, the first ever measurements for clots formed under arterial flow (1130 s−1 wall shear rate). Platelet sensing of flow cessation triggered a 4.6 to 6.5-fold (n=3, P<0.05) increase in contraction rate, which was also observed in a rigid, impermeable parallel-plate microfluidic device. This triggered contraction was blocked by the myosin IIA inhibitor blebbistatin and by inhibitors of thromboxane (TXA2) and ADP signaling. In addition, flow arrest triggered platelet intracellular calcium mobilization, which was blocked by TXA2/ADP inhibitors. As clots become occlusive or vessels rupture, flow around developed clots diminishes facilitating full platelet retraction and hemostasis. Conclusion Flow dilution of ADP and thromboxane regulates platelet contractility with prevailing hemodynamics, a newly defined flow sensing mechanism to regulate clot function. PMID:23087356

10 CFR Appendix B to Subpart D of... - Contract Provisions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work week... basic rate of pay for all hours worked in excess of 40 hours in the work week. Section 107 of the Act is... laborers must include a provision for compliance with Sections 102 and 107 of the Contract Work Hours and...

2 CFR Appendix II to Part 200 - Contract Provisions for Non-Federal Entity Contracts Under Federal Awards

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

..., contractors must be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the prevailing...,000 that involve the employment of mechanics or laborers must include a provision for compliance with... U.S.C. 3702 of the Act, each contractor must be required to compute the wages of every mechanic and...

Contract Source Selection: An Analysis of Lowest Price Technically Acceptable and Tradeoff Strategies

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-06-15

selection strategy is key to minimizing risk and ensuring best value for all stakeholders. On the basis of thorough market research , acquisition...administrative lead-time, Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System ratings, and earned value management assessments) and source selection strategy ...Postgraduate School A. PURPOSE This research analyzes LPTA and tradeoff source selection strategies and contract outcomes to determine if a relationship