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

Colonization in North American Arid Lands: The Journey of Agarito (Berberis trifoliolata) Revealed by Multilocus Molecular Data and Packrat Midden Fossil Remains

PubMed Central

Angulo, Diego F.; Amarilla, Leonardo D.; Anton, Ana M.; Sosa, Victoria

2017-01-01

Here we conduct research to understand the evolutionary history of a shrubby species known as Agarito (Berberis trifoliolata), an endemic species to the Chihuahuan Desert. We identify genetic signatures based on plastid DNA and AFLP markers and perform niche modelling and spatial connectivity analyses as well as niche modelling based on records in packrats to elucidate whether orogenic events such as mountain range uplift in the Miocene or the contraction/expansion dynamics of vegetation in response to climate oscillations in the Pliocene/Pleistocene had an effect on evolutionary processes in Agarito. Our results of current niche modelling and palaeomodelling showed that the area currently occupied by Berberis trifoliolata is substantially larger than it was during the Last Interglacial period and the Last Glacial Maximum. Agarito was probably confined to small areas in the Northeastern and gradually expanded its distribution just after the Last Glacial Maximum when the weather in the Chihuahuan Desert and adjacent regions became progressively warmer and drier. The most contracted range was predicted for the Interglacial period. Populations remained in stable areas during the Last Glacial Maximum and expanded at the beginning of the Holocene. Most genetic variation occured in populations from the Sierra Madre Oriental. Two groups of haplotypes were identified: the Mexican Plateau populations and certain Northeastern populations. Haplogroups were spatially connected during the Last Glacial Maximum and separated during interglacial periods. The most important prediction of packrat middens palaeomodelling lies in the Mexican Plateau, a finding congruent with current and past niche modelling predictions for agarito and genetic results. Our results corroborate that these climate changes in the Pliocene/Pleistocene affected the evolutionary history of agarito. The journey of agarito in the Chihuahuan Desert has been dynamic, expanding and contracting its distribution range and currently occupying the largest area in its history. PMID:28146559

Metabolic adaptations to repeated periods of contraction with reduced blood flow in canine skeletal muscle

PubMed Central

MacInnes, Alan; Timmons, James A

2005-01-01

Background Patients suffering from Intermittent Claudication (IC) experience repeated periods of muscle contraction with low blood flow, throughout the day and this may contribute to the hypothesised skeletal muscle abnormalities. However, no study has evaluated the consequences of intermittent contraction with low blood flow on skeletal muscle tissue. Our aim was to generate this basic physiological data, determining the 'normal' response of healthy skeletal muscle tissue. We specifically proposed that the metabolic responses to contraction would be modified under such circumstances, revealing endogenous strategies engaged to protect the muscle adenine nucleotide pool. Utilizing a canine gracilis model (n = 9), the muscle was stimulated to contract (5 Hz) for three 10 min periods (separated by 10 min rest) under low blood flow conditions (80% reduced), followed by 1 hr recovery and then a fourth period of 10 min stimulation. Muscle biopsies were obtained prior to and following the first and fourth contraction periods. Direct arterio-venous sampling allowed for the calculation of muscle metabolite efflux and oxygen consumption. Results During the first period of contraction, [ATP] was reduced by ~30%. During this period there was also a 10 fold increase in muscle lactate concentration and a substantial increase in muscle lactate and ammonia efflux. Subsequently, lactate efflux was similar during the first three periods, while ammonia efflux was reduced by the third period. Following 1 hr recovery, muscle lactate and phosphocreatine concentrations had returned to resting values, while muscle [ATP] remained 20% lower. During the fourth contraction period no ammonia efflux or change in muscle ATP content occured. Despite such contrasting metabolic responses, muscle tension and oxygen consumption were identical during all contraction periods from 3 to 10 min. Conclusion repeated periods of muscle contraction, with low blood flow, results in cessation of muscle ammonia production which is suggestive of a dramatic reduction in flux through AMP deaminase. PMID:16018808

Comparison between the effects of 4 different electrical stimulation current waveforms on isometric knee extension torque and perceived discomfort in healthy women.

PubMed

Dantas, Lucas Ogura; Vieira, Amilton; Siqueira, Aristides Leite; Salvini, Tania Fatima; Durigan, João Luiz Quagliotti

2015-01-01

We studied the effects of different neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) currents, 2 kHz-frequency alternating currents (KACs, Russian and Aussie) and 2 pulsed currents (PCs), on isometric knee extension torque and discomfort level, both in isolation and combined, with maximum voluntary contraction (MVC). Twenty-one women (age 21.6 ± 2.5 years) were studied. We evaluated torque evoked by NMES or NMES combined with maximum voluntary contraction of the quadriceps muscle of healthy women. Discomfort level was measured using a visual analog pain scale. Despite comparable levels of discomfort, evoked torque was lower for Russian current compared with the other modalities (Russian 50.8%, Aussie 71.7%, PC500 76.9%, and PC200 70.1%; P < 0.001). There was no advantage in combining NMES with MVC compared with isolated NMES. The Aussie and PC approaches proved superior to Russian current for inducing isometric knee extension torque. This information is important in guiding decision making with regard to NMES protocols for muscle strengthening. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Contraction of the Ventral Abdomen Potentiates Extracardiac Retrograde Hemolymph Propulsion in the Mosquito Hemocoel

PubMed Central

Andereck, Jonathan W.; King, Jonas G.; Hillyer, Julián F.

2010-01-01

Background Hemolymph circulation in mosquitoes is primarily controlled by the contractile action of a dorsal vessel that runs underneath the dorsal midline and is subdivided into a thoracic aorta and an abdominal heart. Wave-like peristaltic contractions of the heart alternate in propelling hemolymph in anterograde and retrograde directions, where it empties into the hemocoel at the terminal ends of the insect. During our analyses of hemolymph propulsion in Anopheles gambiae, we observed periodic ventral abdominal contractions and hypothesized that they promote extracardiac hemolymph circulation in the abdominal hemocoel. Methodology/Principal Findings We devised methods to simultaneously analyze both heart and abdominal contractions, as well as to measure hemolymph flow in the abdominal hemocoel. Qualitative and quantitative analyses revealed that ventral abdominal contractions occur as series of bursts that propagate in the retrograde direction. Periods of ventral abdominal contraction begin only during periods of anterograde heart contraction and end immediately following a heartbeat directional reversal, suggesting that ventral abdominal contractions function to propel extracardiac hemolymph in the retrograde direction. To test this functional role, fluorescent microspheres were intrathoracically injected and their trajectory tracked throughout the hemocoel. Quantitative measurements of microsphere movement in extracardiac regions of the abdominal cavity showed that during periods of abdominal contractions hemolymph flows in dorsal and retrograde directions at a higher velocity and with greater acceleration than during periods of abdominal rest. Histochemical staining of the abdominal musculature then revealed that ventral abdominal contractions result from the contraction of intrasegmental lateral muscle fibers, intersegmental ventral muscle bands, and the ventral transverse muscles that form the ventral diaphragm. Conclusions/Significance These data show that abdominal contractions potentiate extracardiac retrograde hemolymph propulsion in the abdominal hemocoel during periods of anterograde heart flow. PMID:20886066

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...

48 CFR 2919.812 - Contract administration.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... conduct periodic evaluations of the performance of an 8(a) contract at various stages of the contract period of performance. Any problems encountered during the performance evaluation, which cannot be...

["Crows' feet wrinkles" in high voltage electric accident--a sign of survival?].

PubMed

Grellner, W; Madea, B

1994-01-01

A "crowsfoot-like" pattern is considered as being a sign of vitality in fatalities due to the effects of smoke, fire or high voltage (active or reflex contraction of mimic muscles). Introducing the autopsy results of a high voltage accident (66,600 V) it is discussed, whether this phenomenon and the underlying contraction of the facial muscles could also be caused by electrical current in the agony or supravital period. It seems possible that this mechanism of direct muscle contraction anticipates a nerval indirect stimulation of muscle fibres by innervating motoneurones--active or on the basis of a polysynaptic extraneous reflex. If the electrophysiological course discussed should be right, a "crowsfoot-like" pattern in equivalent cases could be interpreted as a vital sign only with great reserve.

Predictable and Adaptable Complex Real-Time Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-09-30

Predictable and Adaptable Complex Real - Time Systems Grant or Contract Number: N00014-92-J-1048 Reporting Period: 1 Oct 91 - 30 Sep 93 1... Real - Time Systems Grant or Contract Number: N00014-92-J-1048 Reporting Period: 1 Oct 91 - 30 Sep 93 2. Summary of Technical Progress Our...cs.umass.edu Grant or Contract Title: Predictable and Adaptable Complex Real - Time Systems Grant or Contract Number: N00014-92-J-1048 Reporting Period: 1 Oct 91

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.

26 CFR 1.817-5 - Diversification requirements for variable annuity, endowment, and life insurance contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... insurance contract for any calendar quarter period for which the investments of any such account are not... subsequent period even if the investments are adequately diversified for such subsequent period. If a... foreign) law is not treated as a life insurance or endowment contract under section 7702(a), the income on...

Periodic Contractions among the Elements. Or, on Being the Right Size.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mason, Joan

1988-01-01

Discusses the significance of periodicity and covalent atomic radius among the elements. Describes contraction across the row, expansion down the group, irregularities in the buildup of the periodic table and periodicities of physiochemical properties. (CW)

Comparison between electrically evoked and voluntary isometric contractions for biceps brachii muscle oxidative metabolism using near-infrared spectroscopy.

PubMed

Muthalib, Makii; Jubeau, Marc; Millet, Guillaume Y; Maffiuletti, Nicola A; Nosaka, Kazunori

2009-09-01

This study compared voluntary (VOL) and electrically evoked isometric contractions by muscle stimulation (EMS) for changes in biceps brachii muscle oxygenation (tissue oxygenation index, DeltaTOI) and total haemoglobin concentration (DeltatHb = oxygenated haemoglobin + deoxygenated haemoglobin) determined by near-infrared spectroscopy. Twelve men performed EMS with one arm followed 24 h later by VOL with the contralateral arm, consisting of 30 repeated (1-s contraction, 1-s relaxation) isometric contractions at 30% of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) for the first 60 s, and maximal intensity contractions thereafter (MVC for VOL and maximal tolerable current at 30 Hz for EMS) until MVC decreased approximately 30% of pre-exercise MVC. During the 30 contractions at 30% MVC, DeltaTOI decrease was significantly (P < 0.05) greater and DeltatHb was significantly (P < 0.05) lower for EMS than VOL, suggesting that the metabolic demand for oxygen in EMS is greater than VOL at the same torque level. However, during maximal intensity contractions, although EMS torque (approximately 40% of VOL) was significantly (P < 0.05) lower than VOL, DeltaTOI was similar and tHb was significantly (P < 0.05) lower for EMS than VOL towards the end, without significant differences between the two sessions in the recovery period. It is concluded that the oxygen demand of the activated biceps brachii muscle in EMS is comparable to VOL at maximal intensity.

Extending SIESTA capabilities: removing field-periodic and stellarator symmetric limitations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cook, C. R.; Hirshman, S. P.; Sanchez, R.; Anderson, D. T.

2011-10-01

SIESTA is a three-dimensional magnetohydrodynamics equilibrium code capable of resolving magnetic islands in toroidal plasma confinement devices. Currently SIESTA assumes that plasma perturbations, and thus also magnetic islands, are field-periodic. This limitation is being removed from the code by allowing the displacement toroidal mode number to not be restricted to multiples of the number of field periods. Extending SIESTA in this manner will allow larger, lower-order resonant islands to form in devices such as CTH. An example of a non-field-periodic perturbation in CTH will be demonstrated. Currently the code also operates in a stellarator-symmetric fashion in which an ``up-down'' symmetry is present at some toroidal angle. Nearly all of the current tokamaks (and ITER in the future) operate with a divertor and as such do not possess stellarator symmetry. Removal of this symmetry restriction requires including both sine and cosine terms in the Fourier expansion for the geometry of the device and the fields contained within. The current status of this extension of the code will be discussed, along with the method of implementation. U.S. DOE Contract No. DE-AC05-00OR22725 with UT-Battelle, LLC.

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...

77 FR 31418 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; NYSE Arca, Inc.; Notice of Designation of a Longer Period for...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-05-25

... Contracts'') and Implement Rule Text Necessary To Distinguish Mini-Options Contracts From Option Contracts...-options contracts'') and implement rule text necessary to distinguish mini-options contracts from option...

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...

In vitro cardiomyocyte-driven biogenerator based on aligned piezoelectric nanofibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Xia; Zhao, Hui; Lu, Yingxian; Li, Song; Lin, Liwei; Du, Yanan; Wang, Xiaohong

2016-03-01

Capturing the body's mechanical energy from the heart, lungs, and diaphragm can probably meet the requirements for in vivo applications of implantable biomedical devices. In this work, we present a novel contractile cardiomyocyte (CM)-driven biogenerator based on piezoelectric nanofibers (NFs) uniaxially aligned on a PDMS thin film. Flexible nanostructures interact with the CMs, as a physical cue to guide the CMs to align in a specific way, and create mechanical interfaces of contractile CMs and piezoelectric NFs. As such, the cellular construct features specific alignment and synchronous contraction, which realizes the maximal resultant force to drive the NFs to bend periodically. Studies on contraction mapping show that neonatal rat CMs self-assemble into a functional bio-bot film with well-defined axes of force generation. Consequently, the biogenerator produces an average voltage of 200 mV and current of 45 nA at the cell concentration of 1.0 million per ml, offering a biocompatible and scalable platform for biological energy conversion.Capturing the body's mechanical energy from the heart, lungs, and diaphragm can probably meet the requirements for in vivo applications of implantable biomedical devices. In this work, we present a novel contractile cardiomyocyte (CM)-driven biogenerator based on piezoelectric nanofibers (NFs) uniaxially aligned on a PDMS thin film. Flexible nanostructures interact with the CMs, as a physical cue to guide the CMs to align in a specific way, and create mechanical interfaces of contractile CMs and piezoelectric NFs. As such, the cellular construct features specific alignment and synchronous contraction, which realizes the maximal resultant force to drive the NFs to bend periodically. Studies on contraction mapping show that neonatal rat CMs self-assemble into a functional bio-bot film with well-defined axes of force generation. Consequently, the biogenerator produces an average voltage of 200 mV and current of 45 nA at the cell concentration of 1.0 million per ml, offering a biocompatible and scalable platform for biological energy conversion. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Includes the ESI methods and figures, and videos of cell contraction and biogenerator bending. See DOI: 10.1039/c5nr08430j

48 CFR 252.247-7011 - Period of contract.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

...) for 180 days past the expiration date. (End of clause) [56 FR 36479, July 31, 1991, as amended at 66 FR 49861, Oct. 1, 2001] [56 FR 36479, July 31, 1991, as amended at 75 FR 51418, Aug. 20, 2010] ... clause: Period of Contract (OCT 2001) (a) This contract begins January 1, __, and ends December 31...

48 CFR 252.247-7011 - Period of contract.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

...) for 180 days past the expiration date. (End of clause) [56 FR 36479, July 31, 1991, as amended at 66 FR 49861, Oct. 1, 2001] [56 FR 36479, July 31, 1991, as amended at 75 FR 51418, Aug. 20, 2010] ... clause: Period of Contract (OCT 2001) (a) This contract begins January 1, __, and ends December 31...

Nonstandard work arrangements and worker health and safety.

PubMed

Howard, John

2017-01-01

Arrangements between those who perform work and those who provide jobs come in many different forms. Standard work arrangements now exist alongside several nonstandard arrangements: agency work, contract work, and gig work. While standard work arrangements are still the most prevalent types, the rise of nonstandard work arrangements, especially temporary agency, contract, and "gig" arrangements, and the potential effects of these new arrangements on worker health and safety have captured the attention of government, business, labor, and academia. This article describes the major work arrangements in use today, profiles the nonstandard workforce, discusses several legal questions about how established principles of labor and employment law apply to nonstandard work arrangements, summarizes findings published in the past 20 years about the health and safety risks for workers in nonstandard work arrangements, and outlines current research efforts in the area of healthy work design and worker well-being. Am. J. Ind. Med. 60:1-10, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

48 CFR 2452.216-74 - Distribution of award fee.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

...: Evaluation Period: [insert time period] Available Award Fee: [insert dollar amount] (b) In the event of...-rata distribution associated with evaluation period activities or events as determined by the Fee... 2416.406(e)(3), add paragraph (c): (c) The contract clauses required for cost-reimbursement contracts...

48 CFR 2452.216-74 - Distribution of award fee.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

...: Evaluation Period: [insert time period] Available Award Fee: [insert dollar amount] (b) In the event of...-rata distribution associated with evaluation period activities or events as determined by the Fee... 2416.406(e)(3), add paragraph (c): (c) The contract clauses required for cost-reimbursement contracts...

48 CFR 2452.216-74 - Distribution of award fee.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

...: Evaluation Period: [insert time period] Available Award Fee: [insert dollar amount] (b) In the event of...-rata distribution associated with evaluation period activities or events as determined by the Fee... 2416.406(e)(3), add paragraph (c): (c) The contract clauses required for cost-reimbursement contracts...

48 CFR 2452.216-74 - Distribution of award fee.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

...: Evaluation Period: [insert time period] Available Award Fee: [insert dollar amount] (b) In the event of...-rata distribution associated with evaluation period activities or events as determined by the Fee... 2416.406(e)(3), add paragraph (c): (c) The contract clauses required for cost-reimbursement contracts...

48 CFR 2452.216-74 - Distribution of award fee.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

...: Evaluation Period: [insert time period] Available Award Fee: [insert dollar amount] (b) In the event of...-rata distribution associated with evaluation period activities or events as determined by the Fee... 2416.406(e)(3), add paragraph (c): (c) The contract clauses required for cost-reimbursement contracts...

24 CFR 203.268 - Pro rata payment of periodic MIP.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MORTGAGE AND LOAN INSURANCE PROGRAMS UNDER NATIONAL HOUSING ACT AND OTHER AUTHORITIES SINGLE FAMILY MORTGAGE INSURANCE Contract Rights and Obligations Mortgage Insurance Premiums-Periodic Payment § 203.268 Pro rata payment of periodic MIP. (a) If the insurance contract is terminated...

24 CFR 203.268 - Pro rata payment of periodic MIP.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MORTGAGE AND LOAN INSURANCE PROGRAMS UNDER NATIONAL HOUSING ACT AND OTHER AUTHORITIES SINGLE FAMILY MORTGAGE INSURANCE Contract Rights and Obligations Mortgage Insurance Premiums-Periodic Payment § 203.268 Pro rata payment of periodic MIP. (a) If the insurance contract is terminated...

Support of the Laboratory for Terrestrial Physics for Dynamics of the Solid Earth (DOSE)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vandenberg, Nancy R.; Ma, C. (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

This final report summarizes the accomplishments during the contract period. Under the contract NVI, Inc. provided support to the VLBI group at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. The contract covered a period of approximately eight years during which geodetic and astrometric VLBI evolved through several major changes. This report is divided into four sections which correspond to major task areas in the contract: A) Coordination and Scheduling, B) Field System, C) Station Support, and D) Analysis and Research and Development.

Support for the Laboratory for Terrestrial Physics for Dynamics of the Solid Earth (DOSE)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ma, C. (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

This final report summarizes the accomplishments during the contract period. Under the contract NVI, Inc. provided support to the VLBI group at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. The contract covered a period of approximately eight years during which geodetic and astrometric VLBI evolved through several major changes. This report is divided into four sections which correspond to major task areas in the contract: A) Coordination and Scheduling, B) Field System, C) Station Support, and D) Analysis and Research and Development.

NASA university program management information system, FY 1985

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1985-01-01

The University Program Report provides current information and related statistics for approximately 4200 grants/contracts/cooperative agreements active during the reporting period. NASA Field Centers and certain Headquarters Program Offices provide funds for those research and development activities in universities which contribute to the mission needs of that particular NASA element. This annual report is one means of documenting the NASA-University relationship, frequently denoted, collectively, as NASA's University Program.

NASA university program management information system, FY 1986

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1986-01-01

The University Program Report provides current information and related statistics for approximately 4300 grants/contracts/cooperative agreements active during the report period. NASA Field centers and certain Headquarters Program Offices provide funds for those R&D activities in universities which contribute to the mission needs of that particular NASA element. This annual report is one means of documenting the NASA-university relationship, frequently denoted, collectively, as NASA's University Program.

NASA University Program Management Information System: FY 1995

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1995-01-01

The University Program Report, Fiscal Year 1995, provides current information and related statistics for grants/contracts/cooperative agreements active during the report period. NASA field centers and certain Headquarters program offices provide funds for those R&D activities in universities which contribute to the mission needs of that particular NASA element. This annual report is one means of documenting the NASA-university relationship, frequently denoted, collectively, as NASA's University Program.

NASA University program management information system, FY 1993

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1993-01-01

The University Program Report, Fiscal Year 1993, provides current information and related statistics for 7682 grants/contracts/cooperative agreements active during the report period. NASA field centers and certain Headquarters program offices provide funds for those R&D activities in universities which contribute to the mission needs of that particular NASA element. This annual report is one means of documenting the NASA-university relationship, frequently denoted, collectively, as NASA's University Program.

NASA university program management information system, FY 1994

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1994-01-01

The University Program report, Fiscal Year 1994, provides current information and related statistics for 7841 grants/contracts/cooperative agreements active during the reporting period. NASA field centers and certain Headquarters program offices provide funds for those activities in universities which contribute to the mission needs of that particular NASA element. This annual report is one means of documenting the NASA-university relationship, frequently denoted, collectively, as NASA's University Program.

77 FR 23295 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; International Securities Exchange, LLC; Notice of Filing and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-18

... on SPY to $0.33 per contract. Additionally, the Exchange is proposing to increase the amount of that... such SPY option contracts shall be $0.34 (currently $0.33) per contract per leg; if the Member achieves... contracts shall be $0.35 (currently $0.34) per contract per leg. The highest SPY rebate amount achieved by...

48 CFR 217.204 - Contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

...)(i) Notwithstanding FAR 17.204(e), the ordering period of a task order or delivery order contract...) of this section does not apply to the following: (A) Contracts, including task or delivery order contracts, awarded under other statutory authority. (B) Advisory and assistance service task order contracts...

Can Recent Global Changes Explain the Dramatic Range Contraction of an Endangered Semi-Aquatic Mammal Species in the French Pyrenees?

PubMed

Charbonnel, Anaïs; Laffaille, Pascal; Biffi, Marjorie; Blanc, Frédéric; Maire, Anthony; Némoz, Mélanie; Sanchez-Perez, José Miguel; Sauvage, Sabine; Buisson, Laëtitia

2016-01-01

Species distribution models (SDMs) are the main tool to predict global change impacts on species ranges. Climate change alone is frequently considered, but in freshwater ecosystems, hydrology is a key driver of the ecology of aquatic species. At large scale, hydrology is however rarely accounted for, owing to the lack of detailed stream flow data. In this study, we developed an integrated modelling approach to simulate stream flow using the hydrological Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT). Simulated stream flow was subsequently included as an input variable in SDMs along with topographic, hydrographic, climatic and land-cover descriptors. SDMs were applied to two temporally-distinct surveys of the distribution of the endangered Pyrenean desman (Galemys pyrenaicus) in the French Pyrenees: a historical one conducted from 1985 to 1992 and a current one carried out between 2011 and 2013. The model calibrated on historical data was also forecasted onto the current period to assess its ability to describe the distributional change of the Pyrenean desman that has been modelled in the recent years. First, we found that hydrological and climatic variables were the ones influencing the most the distribution of this species for both periods, emphasizing the importance of taking into account hydrology when SDMs are applied to aquatic species. Secondly, our results highlighted a strong range contraction of the Pyrenean desman in the French Pyrenees over the last 25 years. Given that this range contraction was under-estimated when the historical model was forecasted onto current conditions, this finding suggests that other drivers may be interacting with climate, hydrology and land-use changes. Our results imply major concerns for the conservation of this endemic semi-aquatic mammal since changes in climate and hydrology are expected to become more intense in the future.

Can Recent Global Changes Explain the Dramatic Range Contraction of an Endangered Semi-Aquatic Mammal Species in the French Pyrenees?

PubMed Central

Charbonnel, Anaïs; Laffaille, Pascal; Biffi, Marjorie; Blanc, Frédéric; Maire, Anthony; Némoz, Mélanie; Sanchez-Perez, José Miguel; Sauvage, Sabine

2016-01-01

Species distribution models (SDMs) are the main tool to predict global change impacts on species ranges. Climate change alone is frequently considered, but in freshwater ecosystems, hydrology is a key driver of the ecology of aquatic species. At large scale, hydrology is however rarely accounted for, owing to the lack of detailed stream flow data. In this study, we developed an integrated modelling approach to simulate stream flow using the hydrological Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT). Simulated stream flow was subsequently included as an input variable in SDMs along with topographic, hydrographic, climatic and land-cover descriptors. SDMs were applied to two temporally-distinct surveys of the distribution of the endangered Pyrenean desman (Galemys pyrenaicus) in the French Pyrenees: a historical one conducted from 1985 to 1992 and a current one carried out between 2011 and 2013. The model calibrated on historical data was also forecasted onto the current period to assess its ability to describe the distributional change of the Pyrenean desman that has been modelled in the recent years. First, we found that hydrological and climatic variables were the ones influencing the most the distribution of this species for both periods, emphasizing the importance of taking into account hydrology when SDMs are applied to aquatic species. Secondly, our results highlighted a strong range contraction of the Pyrenean desman in the French Pyrenees over the last 25 years. Given that this range contraction was under-estimated when the historical model was forecasted onto current conditions, this finding suggests that other drivers may be interacting with climate, hydrology and land-use changes. Our results imply major concerns for the conservation of this endemic semi-aquatic mammal since changes in climate and hydrology are expected to become more intense in the future. PMID:27467269

48 CFR 15.406-2 - Certificate of current cost or pricing data.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... cost or pricing data. 15.406-2 Section 15.406-2 Federal Acquisition Regulations System FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION CONTRACTING METHODS AND CONTRACT TYPES CONTRACTING BY NEGOTIATION Contract Pricing 15.406-2 Certificate of current cost or pricing data. (a) When certified cost or pricing data are...

48 CFR 15.406-2 - Certificate of current cost or pricing data.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... cost or pricing data. 15.406-2 Section 15.406-2 Federal Acquisition Regulations System FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION CONTRACTING METHODS AND CONTRACT TYPES CONTRACTING BY NEGOTIATION Contract Pricing 15.406-2 Certificate of current cost or pricing data. (a) When certified cost or pricing data are...

48 CFR 15.406-2 - Certificate of current cost or pricing data.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... cost or pricing data. 15.406-2 Section 15.406-2 Federal Acquisition Regulations System FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION CONTRACTING METHODS AND CONTRACT TYPES CONTRACTING BY NEGOTIATION Contract Pricing 15.406-2 Certificate of current cost or pricing data. (a) When certified cost or pricing data are...

75 FR 66679 - Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement; Continuation of Current Contracts-Deletion of...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-10-29

... Acquisition Regulation Supplement; Continuation of Current Contracts--Deletion of Redundant Text (DFARS Case... Supplement (DFARS) to delete redundant text relating to the continuation of current contracts with a... Case 2002-010 (68 FR 69250) incorporated these restrictions into the FAR. The DFARS text, therefore...

48 CFR 432.007 - Contract financing payments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Contract financing... CONTRACTING REQUIREMENTS CONTRACT FINANCING 432.007 Contract financing payments. The HCA may prescribe, on a case-by-case basis, a shorter period for financing payments. [61 FR 53646, Oct. 15, 1996. Redesignated...

Space Experiments with Particle Accelerators (SEPAC)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Taylor, William W. L.

1994-01-01

The scientific emphasis of this contract has been on the physics of beam ionosphere interactions, in particular, what are the plasma wave levels stimulated by the Space Experiments with Particle Accelerators (SEPAC) electron beam as it is ejected from the Electron Beam Accelerator (EBA) and passes into and through the ionosphere. There were two different phenomena expected. The first was generation of plasma waves by the interaction of the DC component of the beam with the plasma of the ionosphere, by wave particle interactions. The second was the generation of waves at the pulsing frequency of the beam (AC component). This is referred to as using the beam as a virtual antenna, because the beam of electrons is a coherent electrical current confined to move along the earth's magnetic field. As in a physical antenna, a conductor at a radio or TV station, the beam virtual antenna radiates electromagnetic waves at the frequency of the current variations. These two phenomena were investigated during the period of this contract.

NASA/UK TAP

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1987-01-01

The purpose of the Technology Applications Program (TAP) is to provide problem solving information and assistance to both the public and private sectors in the Commonwealth of Kentucky, with emphasis primarily in the public sector. The TAP accesses over 1200 online computer databases, including files from the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Australia. During the 1985 to 1986 contract period, TAP responded to 645 inquiries which resulted in an increase of 16 percent over the 1984 to 1985 contract period. The activities of TAP for the 1985 to 1986 contract period are summarized.

Mucous Membrane Grafting Augmented with Topical Mitomycin C Application in Contracted Socket Repair Surgeries.

PubMed

Mandour, Sameh S; Elmazar, Hesham M; Marey, Hatem M; Rahman, Ahmed K Abdel; Sakr, Rokia A

2016-12-01

To evaluate the use of intraoperative topical application of mitomycin C (MMC) for managing cases of recurrent socket contraction. A prospective comparative randomized study was carried out on 40 patients suffering from contracted sockets. They were randomly enrolled into 2 groups. Group A included 20 patients who had a surgery to treat contracted socket without augmentation with MMC. Group B patients had an MMC-augmented repair for the contracted socket. Patients were followed up over a period of 12 months for changes in inferior fornix (IF) depth and ability to retain the ocular prosthesis. At the end of the follow-up period, postoperative IF depth was significantly deeper in group B (with MMC) than in group A (without MMC). As well, 75% of the patients in group B could maintain the prosthetic eye shell, whereas only 35% of group A could maintain the prosthesis. This study shows that using intraoperative MMC (0.2 mg/mL) in contracted socket reconstruction plays a significant role in maintaining prosthetic eye. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to use MMC on a relatively large scale of patients with contracted socket. However, the follow-up period was relatively short and further work is required to verify the effect of MMC on a longer follow-up period.

The Periodic Flapping and Breathing of Saturn's Magnetodisk During Equinox

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sorba, A. M.; Achilleos, N.; Guio, P.; Arridge, C. S.; Dougherty, M. K.; Sergis, N.

2017-12-01

Periodic variations have been observed in many field and particle properties in Saturn's magnetosphere, modulated at a period close to the planetary rotation rate. Magnetic field observations by Cassini's magnetometer instrument suggest that in the outer magnetosphere (beyond 12 Saturn radii) Saturn's current sheet is periodically displaced with respect to the rotational equator, to a first approximation acting as a rotating, tilted disk. This manifests as a `flapping' mode when observed by the spacecraft. Recent studies suggest the magnetosphere also has a `breathing' mode, expanding and contracting with a period close to the planetary rotation rate. We model these two modes in tandem by combining a global, geometrical model of a tilted and rippled current sheet with a local, force-balance model of Saturn's magnetodisk, accounting for the magnetospheric size and hot plasma content. We simulate the breathing behavior by introducing an azimuthal dependence of the system size. We fit Cassini magnetometer data acquired on equatorial orbits from 23 Oct - 17 Dec 2009 (Revs 120-122), close to Saturn equinox, in order that seasonal effects on the current sheet are minimised. We find that our model characterises well the amplitude and phase of the oscillations in the data, for those passes that show clear periodic signatures in the field. In particular, the Bθ (meridional) component can only be characterised when the breathing mode is included. This study introduces calculations for an oscillating boundary under conditions of constant solar wind dynamic pressure, which provide a good basis for understanding the complex relationship between current sheet dynamics and the periodic field perturbations.

Support of the Laboratory for Terrestrial Physics for Dynamics of the Solid Earth (DOSE)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vandenberg, N. R.; Ma, C. (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

This final report summarizes the accomplishments during the contract period. Under the contract Nepal, Inc. provided support to the VLBI group at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. The contract covered a period of approximately eight years during high geodetic and astrometric VLBI evolved through several major changes. This report is divided into five sections that correspond to major task areas in the contract: A) Coordination rid Scheduling, B) Field System, CN Station Support, D) Analysis and Research and Development, and E) Computer Support.

Turbine Engine Flowpath Averaging Techniques

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-10-01

u~%x AEDC- TMR- 8 I-G 1 • R. P TURBINE ENGINE FLOWPATH AVERAGING TECHNIQUES T. W. Skiles ARO, Inc. October 1980 Final Report for Period...COVERED 00-01-1980 to 00-10-1980 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE Turbine Engine Flowpath Averaging Techniques 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER 5b. GRANT NUMBER 5c...property for gas turbine engines were investigated. The investigation consisted of a literature review and review of turbine engine current flowpath

17 CFR 151.3 - Spot months for Referenced Contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... Referenced Futures Contract for the ICE Futures U.S. Sugar No. 11 (SB) Referenced Contract; (3) At the close... delivery period in the underlying Core Referenced Futures Contract for the ICE Futures U.S. Sugar No. 16... Exchange Light Sweet Crude Oil (CL) contract; (2) New York Mercantile Exchange New York Harbor No. 2...

Muscle oxygenation of vastus lateralis and medialis muscles during alternating and pulsed current electrical stimulation.

PubMed

Aldayel, Abdulaziz; Muthalib, Makii; Jubeau, Marc; McGuigan, Michael; Nosaka, Kazunori

2011-05-01

This study compared between alternating and pulsed current electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) for muscle oxygenation and blood volume during isometric contractions. Nine healthy men (23-48 years) received alternating current EMS (2500 Hz) modulated at 75 Hz on the knee extensors of one leg, and pulsed current EMS (75 Hz) for the other leg separated by 2 weeks in a randomised, counter-balanced order. Pulse duration (400 μs), on-off ratio (5-15 s) and other stimulation parameters were matched between conditions and 30 isometric contractions were induced at the knee joint angle of 100° (0° full extension). Changes in tissue oxygenation index (∆TOI) and total hemoglobin volume (∆tHb) of vastus lateralis and medialis muscles over 30 contractions were assessed by a near-infrared spectroscopy, and were compared between conditions by a two-way repeated measures ANOVA. Peak torque produced during EMS increased over 30 contractions in response to the increase in the stimulation intensity for pulsed current, but not for the alternating current EMS. The torque during each isometric contraction was less stable in alternating than pulsed current EMS. The changes in ∆TOI amplitude during relaxation phases and ∆tHb amplitude were not significantly different between conditions. However, the decreases in ∆TOI amplitude during contraction phases from baseline were significantly (P < 0.05) greater for the pulsed current than alternating current from the 18th contraction (-15.6 ± 2.3 vs. -8.9 ± 1.8%) to 30th contraction (-10.7 ± 1.8 vs. -4.8 ± 1.5%). These results suggest that the muscles were less activated in the alternating current EMS when compared with the pulsed current EMS.

42 CFR 414.422 - Terms of contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

...) MEDICARE PROGRAM PAYMENT FOR PART B MEDICAL AND OTHER HEALTH SERVICES Competitive Bidding for Certain... exercised by CMS, for the full duration of the contract period. (b) Recompeting competitive bidding contracts. CMS recompetes competitive bidding contracts at least once every 3 years. (c) Nondiscrimination...

42 CFR 414.422 - Terms of contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

...) MEDICARE PROGRAM PAYMENT FOR PART B MEDICAL AND OTHER HEALTH SERVICES Competitive Bidding for Certain... exercised by CMS, for the full duration of the contract period. (b) Recompeting competitive bidding contracts. CMS recompetes competitive bidding contracts at least once every 3 years. (c) Nondiscrimination...

48 CFR 32.007 - Contract financing payments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... extent of contract financing arrangements are integrated with agency contract pricing policies. (4... otherwise prescribed in agency policies and procedures or otherwise specified in paragraph (b) of this... due date. (3) Agency heads may prescribe shorter periods for payment based on contract pricing or...

The application of contraction theory to an iterative formulation of electromagnetic scattering

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brand, J. C.; Kauffman, J. F.

1985-01-01

Contraction theory is applied to an iterative formulation of electromagnetic scattering from periodic structures and a computational method for insuring convergence is developed. A short history of spectral (or k-space) formulation is presented with an emphasis on application to periodic surfaces. To insure a convergent solution of the iterative equation, a process called the contraction corrector method is developed. Convergence properties of previously presented iterative solutions to one-dimensional problems are examined utilizing contraction theory and the general conditions for achieving a convergent solution are explored. The contraction corrector method is then applied to several scattering problems including an infinite grating of thin wires with the solution data compared to previous works.

48 CFR 1352.271-72 - Additional Item Requirements (AIR)-growth work

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... performance period. All growth work shall be paid at the prices stated in the Schedule. (b) The contractor... the first half of the contract period of performance. (2) No more than 50% of the hours during the third quarter of the contract period of performance. (3) No more than 30% of the hours during the fourth...

Base heating methodology improvements, volume 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bender, Robert L.; Reardon, John E.; Somers, Richard E.; Fulton, Michael S.; Smith, Sheldon D.; Pergament, Harold

1992-01-01

This document is the final report for NASA MSFC Contract NAS8-38141. The contracted effort had the broad objective of improving the launch vehicles ascent base heating methodology to improve and simplify the determination of that environment for Advanced Launch System (ALS) concepts. It was pursued as an Advanced Development Plan (ADP) for the Joint DoD/NASA ALS program office with project management assigned to NASA/MSFC. The original study was to be completed in 26 months beginning Sep. 1989. Because of several program changes and emphasis on evolving launch vehicle concepts, the period of performance was extended to the current completion date of Nov. 1992. A computer code incorporating the methodology improvements into a quick prediction tool was developed and is operational for basic configuration and propulsion concepts. The code and its users guide are also provided as part of the contract documentation. Background information describing the specific objectives, limitations, and goals of the contract is summarized. A brief chronology of the ALS/NLS program history is also presented to provide the reader with an overview of the many variables influencing the development of the code over the past three years.

Latency of pupillary reflex to light stimulation and its relationship to aging.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1965-09-01

A method is described for measuring pupillary contraction latency period regardless of initial absolute pupil diameter. Pupillary contraction latency period increases with age: the data presented show that the normal pupil, as usually found in health...

48 CFR 1646.201 - Contract Quality Policy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... ensure that services acquired under the FEHB contract conform to the contract's quality and audit requirements. (b) OPM will periodically evaluate the contractor's system of internal controls under the quality... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 6 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 true Contract Quality Policy...

Managing TIAA-CREF Contracts

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bastable, C. W.; Brady, Gerald P.

1976-01-01

Complexities in managing TIAA-CREF contracts are reviewed. Attention is directed toward participation, period considerations, selection of retirement age, retirement income transition, estate considerations and beneficiaries, voluntary additional contributions, and supplemental retirement annuity contracts. (LBH)

48 CFR 36.515 - Schedules for construction contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... contemplated, the contract amount is expected to exceed the simplified acquisition threshold, and the period of... covering other management approaches for ensuring that a contractor makes adequate progress. [48 FR 42356... Schedules for construction contracts. The contracting officer may insert the clause at 52.236-15, Schedules...

78 FR 48728 - International Mail Contract

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-08-09

... POSTAL REGULATORY COMMISSION [Docket No. CP2013-39; Order No. 1798] International Mail Contract... provide its contracting partner, on a periodic basis, with a list of countries to which Commercial ePacket... an Additional Global Plus 1C Contract, January 11, 2013. IV. Ordering Paragraphs It is ordered: 1...

The Current Commander: Understanding and Effecting Change in Civilian Organizations

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-03-30

communication, treatment according to contract, and no special attention. Out- group members do only what is required, operating within strictly...complete what he calls the Taking-Hold stage. This is a period in which the new leader gains “orientational and evaluative learning and begins to take...focus on those priorities • Being Captured by the Wrong People – new leaders must exercise great care in deciding who to listen to and to what degree

Haemodynamic kinetics and intermittent finger flexor performance in rock climbers.

PubMed

Fryer, S; Stoner, L; Lucero, A; Witter, T; Scarrott, C; Dickson, T; Cole, M; Draper, N

2015-02-01

Currently it is unclear whether blood flow (BF) or muscle oxidative capacity best governs performance during intermittent contractions to failure. The aim of this study was to determine oxygenation kinetics and BF responses during intermittent (10 s contraction: 3 s release) contractions at 40% of MVC in rock climbers of different ability (N=38). Total forearm BF, as well as de-oxygenation and re-oxygenation of the flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) and the flexor carpi radialis (FCR) were assessed. Compared to the control, intermediate and advanced groups, the elite climbers had a significantly (p<0.05) greater force time integral (FTI), MVC and MVC/kg. Furthermore, the elite climbers de-oxygenated the FDP significantly more during the first (7.8, 11.9, 12.4 vs. 15.7 O2%) and middle (7.3, 8.8, 10.4 vs.15.3 O2%) phases of contractions as well as for the FCR during the first phase only (8.3, 7, 11.7 vs. 13.3 O2%). They also had a significantly higher BF upon release of the contractions (656, 701, 764 vs. 971 mL ∙ min(-1)). The higher FTI seen in elite climbers may be attributable to a greater blood delivery, and an enhanced O2 recovery during the 3 s release periods, as well as a superior muscle oxidative capacity associated with the greater de-oxygenation during the 10 s contractions. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

24 CFR 203.267 - Duration of periodic MIP.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... URBAN DEVELOPMENT MORTGAGE AND LOAN INSURANCE PROGRAMS UNDER NATIONAL HOUSING ACT AND OTHER AUTHORITIES SINGLE FAMILY MORTGAGE INSURANCE Contract Rights and Obligations Mortgage Insurance Premiums-Periodic... deed to the Commissioner is filed for record or the contract of insurance is terminated. [48 FR 28805...

24 CFR 203.267 - Duration of periodic MIP.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... URBAN DEVELOPMENT MORTGAGE AND LOAN INSURANCE PROGRAMS UNDER NATIONAL HOUSING ACT AND OTHER AUTHORITIES SINGLE FAMILY MORTGAGE INSURANCE Contract Rights and Obligations Mortgage Insurance Premiums-Periodic... deed to the Commissioner is filed for record or the contract of insurance is terminated. [48 FR 28805...

17 CFR 48.7 - Requirements for registration.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... to detect trading and market abuses and to reconstruct all transactions within a reasonable period of... contract market; (ii) Contracts must be cleared; (iii) Contracts must not be prohibited from being traded... regulation of the foreign board of trade, the clearing organization, and the type of contracts to be made...

17 CFR 48.7 - Requirements for registration.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... to detect trading and market abuses and to reconstruct all transactions within a reasonable period of... contract market; (ii) Contracts must be cleared; (iii) Contracts must not be prohibited from being traded... regulation of the foreign board of trade, the clearing organization, and the type of contracts to be made...

17 CFR 48.7 - Requirements for registration.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... to detect trading and market abuses and to reconstruct all transactions within a reasonable period of... contract market; (ii) Contracts must be cleared; (iii) Contracts must not be prohibited from being traded... regulation of the foreign board of trade, the clearing organization, and the type of contracts to be made...

46 CFR 356.43 - Long-term or exclusive sales contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... DOCUMENTATION Charters, Management Agreements and Exclusive or Long-Term Contracts § 356.43 Long-term or exclusive sales contracts. (a) An owner or bareboat charterer of a Fishing Industry Vessel may enter into an... a specified period of time. Such contracts or agreements will not require our prior approval...

Optimal Lease Contract for Remanufactured Equipment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iskandar, B. P.; Wangsaputra, R.; Pasaribu, U. S.; Husniah, H.

2018-03-01

In the last two decades, the business of lease products (or equipment) has grown significantly, and many companies acquire equipment through leasing. In this paper, we propose a new lease contract under which a product (or equipment) is leased for a period of time with maximum usage per period (e.g. 1 year). This lease contract has only a time limit but no usage limit. If the total usage per period exceeds the maximum usage allowed in the contract, then the customer (as a lessee) will be charged an additional cost. In general, the lessor (OEM) provides a full coverage of maintenance, which includes PM and CM under the lease contract. It is considered that the lessor offers the lease contract for a remanufactured product. We presume that the price of the lease contract for the remanufactured product is much lower than that of a new one, and hence it would be a more attractive option to the customer. The decision problem for the lessee is to select the best option offered that fits to its requirement, and the decision problem for the lessor is find the optimal maintenance efforts for a given price of the lease option offered. We first find the optimal decisions independently for each party, and then the joint optimal decisions for both parties.

Contraction produced by intracellular injection of calcium, strontium, and barium in the single crayfish muscle fibers.

PubMed

Matsumura, M; Mashima, H

1976-01-01

Ca ions were ionophoretically injected through an intracellular microelectrode into the single muscle fiber of a crayfish, and the resulting contraction sphere was observed under a microscope and photographed with a movie camera. The minimum contraction produced by the threshold current involved usually three or four, sometimes two, sarcomers on both sides of the injecting pipette but contraction involving only one sarcomere was not observered. The rheobase of the Ca-injecting current was 3.2 X 10(-9) A. The strength-duration curves were determined for Ca-, Sr-, and Ba-injecting currents; all fitted a similar hyperbolic equation. The threshold amount of Ca above rheobasic injection was 2.1 X 10(-15)mol, and the ratios between threshold amounts were Ca: Sr: Ba=1: 1.9: 3.0. The effects of Ca and Sr were additive for the contraction. More current was required for the Ca-injection to produce the contraction in the K-depolarized-or 15mM-procaine-treated muscle, although less current was sufficient for the muscle treated with 0.5-1.0 mM of caffeine. The participation of the Ca-induced Ca release mechanism in the contraction produced by Ca injection and the role of Sr or Ba as a substitute for Ca were discussed.

25 CFR 273.18 - Additional requirements for education plan.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... EDUCATION ASSISTANCE ACT PROGRAM EDUCATION CONTRACTS UNDER JOHNSON-O'MALLEY ACT Application Process § 273.18... needed to carry out the contract. (o) State the period of contract term requested. (p) Include the...

25 CFR 273.18 - Additional requirements for education plan.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... EDUCATION ASSISTANCE ACT PROGRAM EDUCATION CONTRACTS UNDER JOHNSON-O'MALLEY ACT Application Process § 273.18... needed to carry out the contract. (o) State the period of contract term requested. (p) Include the...

25 CFR 273.18 - Additional requirements for education plan.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... EDUCATION ASSISTANCE ACT PROGRAM EDUCATION CONTRACTS UNDER JOHNSON-O'MALLEY ACT Application Process § 273.18... needed to carry out the contract. (o) State the period of contract term requested. (p) Include the...

41 CFR 105-8.150-3 - Time period for compliance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 3 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Time period for compliance. 105-8.150-3 Section 105-8.150-3 Public Contracts and Property Management Federal Property Management Regulations System (Continued) GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION 8-ENFORCEMENT OF NONDISCRIMINATION...

41 CFR 105-8.150-3 - Time period for compliance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Time period for compliance. 105-8.150-3 Section 105-8.150-3 Public Contracts and Property Management Federal Property Management Regulations System (Continued) GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION 8-ENFORCEMENT OF NONDISCRIMINATION...

41 CFR 101-6.210-1 - Periodic compliance reviews.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 2 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 true Periodic compliance reviews. 101-6.210-1 Section 101-6.210-1 Public Contracts and Property Management Federal Property Management Regulations System FEDERAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT REGULATIONS GENERAL 6-MISCELLANEOUS REGULATIONS 6.2...

Bioengineered intestinal muscularis complexes with long-term spontaneous and periodic contractions

PubMed Central

Wang, Qianqian; Wang, Ke; Solorzano-Vargas, R. Sergio; Lin, Po-Yu; Walthers, Christopher M.; Thomas, Anne-Laure; Martín, Martín G.

2018-01-01

Although critical for studies of gut motility and intestinal regeneration, the in vitro culture of intestinal muscularis with peristaltic function remains a significant challenge. Periodic contractions of intestinal muscularis result from the coordinated activity of smooth muscle cells (SMC), the enteric nervous system (ENS), and interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC). Reproducing this activity requires the preservation of all these cells in one system. Here we report the first serum-free culture methodology that consistently maintains spontaneous and periodic contractions of murine and human intestinal muscularis cells for months. In this system, SMC expressed the mature marker myosin heavy chain, and multipolar/dipolar ICC, uniaxonal/multipolar neurons and glial cells were present. Furthermore, drugs affecting neural signals, ICC or SMC altered the contractions. Combining this method with scaffolds, contracting cell sheets were formed with organized architecture. With the addition of intestinal epithelial cells, this platform enabled up to 11 types of cells from mucosa, muscularis and serosa to coexist and epithelial cells were stretched by the contracting muscularis cells. The method constitutes a powerful tool for mechanistic studies of gut motility disorders and the functional regeneration of the engineered intestine. PMID:29718926

Ruminal motility of stocker cattle grazed on winter wheat pasture.

PubMed

Horn, G W; Frost, D F

1982-10-01

A 2-yr study was conducted to determine whether bloat of stocker cattle grazing winter wheat pasture is a primary bloat or a secondary bloat as a result of reduced ruminal motility. Amplitude (mm Hg) and frequency of ruminal contractions (contractions/min) of steers were measured before and after the steers were placed on wheat pasture, and at about weekly intervals during the pasture grazing periods. Implantable pressure transducers and water-filled balloon cannulas were used to measure ruminal motility. During the first year, amplitude of contractions increased (P less than .005) during grazing of wheat pasture (i.e., 20.5 vs 6.7 and 21.6 vs 12.9, respectively, for steers with implanted pressure transducers and water-filled balloon cannulas). Frequency of ruminal contractions of steers on wheat pasture was not decreased (P greater than .05). In the second year, amplitudes of ruminal contractions of steers on wheat pasture ranged from 11.0 to 33.5, and were either similar or greater (P less than .05) than the mean for the pre- and post-wheat pasture period (16.5). Frequencies of ruminal contractions that ranged from 1.66 to 1.80 were observed on four dates during the pasture grazing period, and were decreased (P less than .05) as compared with the mean for the pre- and post-wheat pasture period (2.43). However, the reduced frequencies were not accompanied by reduced (P greater than .05) amplitude x frequency of contractions. The data indicate that ruminal motility is not decreased in stocker cattle grazing winter wheat pasture.

48 CFR 2115.270 - Applicability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... to provide life insurance through the FEGLI Program in insurance industry periodicals and other... GROUP LIFE INSURANCE FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION CONTRACTING METHODS AND CONTRACT TYPES CONTRACTING... applications. (c) Eligible contractors (i.e., qualified life insurance companies) are identified in accordance...

48 CFR 705.502 - Authority.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 705.502 Federal Acquisition Regulations System AGENCY FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT ACQUISITION PLANNING PUBLICIZING CONTRACT ACTIONS Synopsis of Proposed Contract Actions 705.502 Authority. (a) The M... USAID contracting officers to place paid advertisements and notices in newspapers and periodicals...

48 CFR 705.502 - Authority.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 705.502 Federal Acquisition Regulations System AGENCY FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT ACQUISITION PLANNING PUBLICIZING CONTRACT ACTIONS Synopsis of Proposed Contract Actions 705.502 Authority. (a) The M... USAID contracting officers to place paid advertisements and notices in newspapers and periodicals...

75 FR 72830 - Medicare Program; Quality Improvement Organization (QIO) Contracts: Solicitation of Proposals...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-11-26

... information relating to the RFP. ADDRESSES: Proposals for the contracts must be submitted to the Centers for...] Medicare Program; Quality Improvement Organization (QIO) Contracts: Solicitation of Proposals From In-State... QIOs' contracts. It also specifies the period of time in which in-State QIOs may submit a proposal for...

Navigating the Legal and Ethical World of Overseas Contracts.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Skinner, Karla Jo

1998-01-01

Referring to Iowa contract law, reviews ethical and legal aspects of overseas employment contracts signed by educators at recruitment fairs. Iowa Department of Education guidelines state the following aspects of a good contract: it is in writing; it states the salary, pay periods, benefits, and dates of employment; it lists special conditions and…

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

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 102-38.150 - How long is the inspection period?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false How long is the inspection period? 102-38.150 Section 102-38.150 Public Contracts and Property Management Federal Property Management Regulations System (Continued) FEDERAL MANAGEMENT REGULATION PERSONAL PROPERTY 38-SALE OF PERSONAL...

41 CFR 102-38.150 - How long is the inspection period?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 3 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false How long is the inspection period? 102-38.150 Section 102-38.150 Public Contracts and Property Management Federal Property Management Regulations System (Continued) FEDERAL MANAGEMENT REGULATION PERSONAL PROPERTY 38-SALE OF PERSONAL...

41 CFR 102-38.150 - How long is the inspection period?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 3 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false How long is the inspection period? 102-38.150 Section 102-38.150 Public Contracts and Property Management Federal Property Management Regulations System (Continued) FEDERAL MANAGEMENT REGULATION PERSONAL PROPERTY 38-SALE OF PERSONAL...

41 CFR 102-38.150 - How long is the inspection period?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 3 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false How long is the inspection period? 102-38.150 Section 102-38.150 Public Contracts and Property Management Federal Property Management Regulations System (Continued) FEDERAL MANAGEMENT REGULATION PERSONAL PROPERTY 38-SALE OF PERSONAL...

41 CFR 102-38.150 - How long is the inspection period?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 3 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false How long is the inspection period? 102-38.150 Section 102-38.150 Public Contracts and Property Management Federal Property Management Regulations System (Continued) FEDERAL MANAGEMENT REGULATION PERSONAL PROPERTY 38-SALE OF PERSONAL...

SMALL-SCALE MAGNETIC ISLANDS IN THE SOLAR WIND AND THEIR ROLE IN PARTICLE ACCELERATION. I. DYNAMICS OF MAGNETIC ISLANDS NEAR THE HELIOSPHERIC CURRENT SHEET

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

Khabarova, O.; Zank, G. P.; Li, G.

2015-08-01

Increases of ion fluxes in the keV–MeV range are sometimes observed near the heliospheric current sheet (HCS) during periods when other sources are absent. These resemble solar energetic particle events, but the events are weaker and apparently local. Conventional explanations based on either shock acceleration of charged particles or particle acceleration due to magnetic reconnection at interplanetary current sheets (CSs) are not persuasive. We suggest instead that recurrent magnetic reconnection occurs at the HCS and smaller CSs in the solar wind, a consequence of which is particle energization by the dynamically evolving secondary CSs and magnetic islands. The effectiveness of themore » trapping and acceleration process associated with magnetic islands depends in part on the topology of the HCS. We show that the HCS possesses ripples superimposed on the large-scale flat or wavy structure. We conjecture that the ripples can efficiently confine plasma and provide tokamak-like conditions that are favorable for the appearance of small-scale magnetic islands that merge and/or contract. Particles trapped in the vicinity of merging islands and experiencing multiple small-scale reconnection events are accelerated by the induced electric field and experience first-order Fermi acceleration in contracting magnetic islands according to the transport theory of Zank et al. We present multi-spacecraft observations of magnetic island merging and particle energization in the absence of other sources, providing support for theory and simulations that show particle energization by reconnection related processes of magnetic island merging and contraction.« less

Activities of the Oil Implementation Task Force, reporting period March--August 1991; Contracts for field projects and supporting research on enhanced oil recovery, reporting period October--December 1990

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

Not Available

Activities of DOE's Oil Implementation Task Force for the period March--August 1991 are reviewed. Contracts for fields projects and supporting research on enhanced oil recovery are discussed, with a list of related publications given. Enhanced recovery processes covered include chemical flooding, gas displacement, thermal recovery, and microbial recovery.

Improved water allocation utilizing probabilistic climate forecasts: Short-term water contracts in a risk management framework

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sankarasubramanian, A.; Lall, Upmanu; Souza Filho, Francisco Assis; Sharma, Ashish

2009-11-01

Probabilistic, seasonal to interannual streamflow forecasts are becoming increasingly available as the ability to model climate teleconnections is improving. However, water managers and practitioners have been slow to adopt such products, citing concerns with forecast skill. Essentially, a management risk is perceived in "gambling" with operations using a probabilistic forecast, while a system failure upon following existing operating policies is "protected" by the official rules or guidebook. In the presence of a prescribed system of prior allocation of releases under different storage or water availability conditions, the manager has little incentive to change. Innovation in allocation and operation is hence key to improved risk management using such forecasts. A participatory water allocation process that can effectively use probabilistic forecasts as part of an adaptive management strategy is introduced here. Users can express their demand for water through statements that cover the quantity needed at a particular reliability, the temporal distribution of the "allocation," the associated willingness to pay, and compensation in the event of contract nonperformance. The water manager then assesses feasible allocations using the probabilistic forecast that try to meet these criteria across all users. An iterative process between users and water manager could be used to formalize a set of short-term contracts that represent the resulting prioritized water allocation strategy over the operating period for which the forecast was issued. These contracts can be used to allocate water each year/season beyond long-term contracts that may have precedence. Thus, integrated supply and demand management can be achieved. In this paper, a single period multiuser optimization model that can support such an allocation process is presented. The application of this conceptual model is explored using data for the Jaguaribe Metropolitan Hydro System in Ceara, Brazil. The performance relative to the current allocation process is assessed in the context of whether such a model could support the proposed short-term contract based participatory process. A synthetic forecasting example is also used to explore the relative roles of forecast skill and reservoir storage in this framework.

Avoiding unintended incentives in ACO payment models.

PubMed

Douven, Rudy; McGuire, Thomas G; McWilliams, J Michael

2015-01-01

One goal of the Medicare Shared Savings Program for accountable care organizations (ACOs) is to reduce Medicare spending for ACOs' patients relative to the organizations' spending history. However, we found that current rules for setting ACO spending targets (or benchmarks) diminish ACOs' incentives to generate savings and may even encourage higher instead of lower Medicare spending. Spending in the three years before ACOs enter or renew a contract is weighted unequally in the benchmark calculation, with a high weight of 0.6 given to the year just before a new contract starts. Thus, ACOs have incentives to increase spending in that year to inflate their benchmark for future years and thereby make it easier to obtain shared savings from Medicare in the new contract period. We suggest strategies to improve incentives for ACOs, including changes to the weights used to determine benchmarks and new payment models that base an ACO's spending target not only on its own past performance but also on the performance of other ACOs or Medicare providers. Project HOPE—The People-to-People Health Foundation, Inc.

12 CFR 1.7 - Securities held in satisfaction of debts previously contracted; holding period; disposal...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Securities held in satisfaction of debts... § 1.7 Securities held in satisfaction of debts previously contracted; holding period; disposal; accounting treatment; non-speculative purpose. (a) Securities held in satisfaction of debts previously...

Shillapoo Wildlife Area, Annual Report 2006-2007.

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

Calkins, Brian

This report summarizes accomplishments, challenges and successes on WDFW's Shillapoo Wildlife Area funded under Bonneville Power Administration's (BPA) Wildlife Mitigation Program (BPA project No.2003-012-00) during the Fiscal Year 07 contract period October 1, 2006-September 30, 2007. The information presented here is intended to supplement that contained in BPA's PISCES contract development and reporting system. The organization below is by broad categories of work but references are made to individual work elements in the PISCES Statement of Work as appropriate. The greatest success realized during this contract period was significant positive changes in the vegetative community in several wetland basins throughoutmore » the wildlife area. This major goal is being achieved in part by new equipment and operation capability funded under the BPA contract, state capital and migratory bird stamp funds, and the past or ongoing investment of other partners including Ducks Unlimited, The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Clark Public Utilities and others. We continue to be challenged by requirements under the archaeological and historic preservation act necessary to protect many sensitive sites known to occur within the wildlife area. The problems encountered to date have been largely administrative in nature and those experienced this year were unforeseen and probably unavoidable. Early in the contract period, WDFW and BPA had agreed to have a BPA staff archaeologist perform the survey and reporting work. Unexpectedly, just prior to the expected start date for the surveys, the employee resigned leaving BPA's staff short handed and necessitated contracting the work with an archaeological consultant. This delay caused us to forego work on several projects that are now deferred until the next contract period. The most notable projects impacted by this unfortunate circumstance are those involving the construction or repair of fences.« less

77 FR 9698 - Notice of Continuation of Visitor Services

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-02-17

...Pursuant to the terms of existing concession contracts, the National Park Service hereby gives notice that it has continued visitor services for a period not-to-exceed 1 year from the date of contract expiration with respect to the listed contracts.

78 FR 4502 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; BATS Exchange, Inc.; Notice of Filing and Immediate Effectiveness...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-01-22

... Exchange currently charges $0.11 per contract for Customer orders executed at NYSE MKT LLC (``AMEX''), BOX... Customer orders executed at MIAX and $0.57 per contract for Professional, Firm, and Market Maker orders executed at MIAX. As noted above, the Exchange currently charges $0.11 per contract for Customer orders and...

Surviving in mountain climate refugia: new insights from the genetic diversity and structure of the relict shrub Myrtus nivellei (Myrtaceae) in the Sahara Desert.

PubMed

Migliore, Jérémy; Baumel, Alex; Juin, Marianick; Fady, Bruno; Roig, Anne; Duong, Nathalie; Médail, Frédéric

2013-01-01

The identification of past glacial refugia has become a key topic for conservation under environmental change, since they contribute importantly to shaping current patterns of biodiversity. However, little attention has been paid so far to interglacial refugia despite their key role for the survival of relict species currently occurring in climate refugia. Here, we focus on the genetic consequences of range contraction on the relict populations of the evergreen shrub Myrtus nivellei, endemic in the Saharan mountains since at least the end of the last Green Sahara period, around 5.5 ka B.P. Multilocus genotypes (nuclear microsatellites and AFLP) were obtained from 215 individuals collected from 23 wadis (temporary rivers) in the three main mountain ranges in southern Algeria (the Hoggar, Tassili n'Ajjer and Tassili n'Immidir ranges). Identical genotypes were found in several plants growing far apart within the same wadis, a pattern taken as evidence of clonality. Multivariate analyses and Bayesian clustering revealed that genetic diversity was mainly structured among the mountain ranges, while low isolation by distance was observed within each mountain range. The range contraction induced by the last episode of aridification has likely increased the genetic isolation of the populations of M. nivellei, without greatly affecting the genetic diversity of the species as a whole. The pattern of genetic diversity observed here suggests that high connectivity may have prevailed during humid periods, which is consistent with recent paleoenvironmental reconstructions.

Dynamic Contraction of the Positive Column of a Self-Sustained Glow Discharge in Molecular Gas Flow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shneider, Mikhail

2014-10-01

Contraction of the gas discharge, when current contracts from a significant volume of weakly ionized plasma into a thin arc channel, was attracted attention of scientists for more than a century. Studies of the contraction (also called constriction) mechanisms, besides carrying interesting science, are of practical importance, especially when contraction should be prevented. A set of time-dependent two-dimensional equations for the non-equilibrium weakly-ionized nitrogen/ air plasma is formulated. The process is described by a set of time-dependent continuity equations for the electrons, positive and negative ions; gas and vibrational temperature; by taking into account the convective heat and plasma losses by the transverse flux. Transition from the uniform to contracted state was analyzed. It was shown that such transition experiences a hysteresis, and that the critical current of the transition increases when the pressure (gas density) drops. Possible coexistence of the contracted and uniform state of the plasma in the discharge where the current flows along the density gradient of the background gas was discussed. In this talk the problems related to the dynamic contraction of the current channel inside a quasineutral positive column of a self-sustained glow discharge in molecular gas in a rectangular duct with convection cooling will be discussed. Study presented in this talk was stimulated by the fact that there are large number of experiments on the dynamic contraction of a glow discharge in nitrogen and air flows and a many of possible applications. Similar processes play a role in the powerful gas-discharge lasers. In addition, the problem of dynamic contraction in the large volume of non-equilibrium weakly ionized plasma is closely related to the problem of streamer to leader transitions in lightning and blue jets.

48 CFR 16.104 - Factors in selecting contract types.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... provide the bases for negotiating contract pricing arrangements. It is essential that the uncertainties... performance or length of production run. In times of economic uncertainty, contracts extending over a relatively long period may require economic price adjustment terms. (g) Contractor's technical capability and...

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...

48 CFR 217.7103-2 - Period of agreement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

....7103-2 Section 217.7103-2 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEFENSE ACQUISITION REGULATIONS SYSTEM, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE CONTRACTING METHODS AND CONTRACT TYPES SPECIAL CONTRACTING METHODS Master Agreement for.... (c) Cancellation of a master agreement does not affect the rights and liabilities under any job order...

48 CFR 217.7103-2 - Period of agreement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

....7103-2 Section 217.7103-2 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEFENSE ACQUISITION REGULATIONS SYSTEM, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE CONTRACTING METHODS AND CONTRACT TYPES SPECIAL CONTRACTING METHODS Master Agreement for.... (c) Cancellation of a master agreement does not affect the rights and liabilities under any job order...

48 CFR 217.7103-2 - Period of agreement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

....7103-2 Section 217.7103-2 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEFENSE ACQUISITION REGULATIONS SYSTEM, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE CONTRACTING METHODS AND CONTRACT TYPES SPECIAL CONTRACTING METHODS Master Agreement for.... (c) Cancellation of a master agreement does not affect the rights and liabilities under any job order...

48 CFR 217.7103-2 - Period of agreement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

....7103-2 Section 217.7103-2 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEFENSE ACQUISITION REGULATIONS SYSTEM, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE CONTRACTING METHODS AND CONTRACT TYPES SPECIAL CONTRACTING METHODS Master Agreement for.... (c) Cancellation of a master agreement does not affect the rights and liabilities under any job order...

48 CFR 217.7103-2 - Period of agreement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

....7103-2 Section 217.7103-2 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEFENSE ACQUISITION REGULATIONS SYSTEM, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE CONTRACTING METHODS AND CONTRACT TYPES SPECIAL CONTRACTING METHODS Master Agreement for.... (c) Cancellation of a master agreement does not affect the rights and liabilities under any job order...

The slow inward calcium current is responsible for a part of the contraction of patch-clamped rat myoballs.

PubMed

Rivet, M; Cognard, C; Raymond, G

1989-01-01

The slow inward calcium current and the contractile response were simultaneously recorded in voltage clamped (whole cell patch clamp recording) rat myoballs in primary culture. The shape of the contraction(T)/potential(V) relationship and the application of the inorganic calcium channel blocker cadmium (1.5 mM), which suppresses a part of the contractile activity, demonstrate the existence of two components of contraction. One of them is related to the slow calcium current.

Service contract of Renault Kerax 440 truck with deductible and policy limit coverage modification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bustami, Pasaribu, Udjianna. S.; Husniah, Hennie

2016-02-01

In this paper we discuss a service contracts with coverage modification that only offer preventive maintenance and corrective maintenance for Renault Kerax 440 Truck by service contract provider. Corrective maintenance costs is modified with deductible and policy limit during the period of the service contract. Demand for a service contract is only influenced by the price of the service contract, deductible, and policy limit offered by producer to consumer. The main problem in this thesis is determining the price of a service contract, deductible, and policy limit to get maximum profit for producer for each of service contract.

9 CFR 201.217 - Reasonable period of time to remedy a breach of contract.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 9 Animals and Animal Products 2 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Reasonable period of time to remedy a breach of contract. 201.217 Section 201.217 Animals and Animal Products GRAIN INSPECTION, PACKERS AND... termination. These criteria do not limit a packer, swine contractor or live poultry dealer's rights under a...

9 CFR 201.217 - Reasonable period of time to remedy a breach of contract.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 9 Animals and Animal Products 2 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Reasonable period of time to remedy a breach of contract. 201.217 Section 201.217 Animals and Animal Products GRAIN INSPECTION, PACKERS AND... termination. These criteria do not limit a packer, swine contractor or live poultry dealer's rights under a...

9 CFR 201.217 - Reasonable period of time to remedy a breach of contract.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 9 Animals and Animal Products 2 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Reasonable period of time to remedy a breach of contract. 201.217 Section 201.217 Animals and Animal Products GRAIN INSPECTION, PACKERS AND... termination. These criteria do not limit a packer, swine contractor or live poultry dealer's rights under a...

Defense Contracting in Iraq: Issues and Options for Congress

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-01-29

contract will have a minimum value of $613,677 with a contract period of one base year followed by up to four one- year CRS-4 12 U.S. Army Sustainment...AND ADDRESS(ES) 10. SPONSOR/MONITOR’S ACRONYM(S) 11. SPONSOR/MONITOR’S REPORT NUMBER(S) 12 . DISTRIBUTION/AVAILABILITY STATEMENT Approved for...Congress) to ensure proper accountability and oversight in federal contracting, particularly for DOD contracts in Iraq. The Fiscal Year (FY) 2008 Defense

48 CFR 317.207 - Exercise of options.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Exercise of options. 317... METHODS AND CONTRACT TYPES SPECIAL CONTRACTING METHODS Options 317.207 Exercise of options. (h) Before exercising an option for a subsequent performance period/additional quantity under a multiple-year contract...

48 CFR 1517.207 - Exercise of options.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 6 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Exercise of options. 1517... CONTRACTING METHODS AND CONTRACT TYPES SPECIAL CONTRACTING METHODS Options 1517.207 Exercise of options. (a... periods shall require that a preliminary written notice of the Government's intention to exercise the...

48 CFR 1517.207 - Exercise of options.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 6 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Exercise of options. 1517... CONTRACTING METHODS AND CONTRACT TYPES SPECIAL CONTRACTING METHODS Options 1517.207 Exercise of options. (a... periods shall require that a preliminary written notice of the Government's intention to exercise the...

48 CFR 1517.207 - Exercise of options.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 6 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Exercise of options. 1517... CONTRACTING METHODS AND CONTRACT TYPES SPECIAL CONTRACTING METHODS Options 1517.207 Exercise of options. (a... periods shall require that a preliminary written notice of the Government's intention to exercise the...

48 CFR 1517.207 - Exercise of options.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 6 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Exercise of options. 1517... CONTRACTING METHODS AND CONTRACT TYPES SPECIAL CONTRACTING METHODS Options 1517.207 Exercise of options. (a... periods shall require that a preliminary written notice of the Government's intention to exercise the...

48 CFR 817.105-1 - Uses.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

...) Encouraging effective competition. (3) That, during the contract period: (i) Demand for the supplies or services will continue; (ii) Substantial changes in demand for supplies and services in terms of quantity....C. 114, VA contracting officers may enter into multi-year contracts for supplies and services not to...

Determination of coronal magnetic fields from vector magnetograms

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mikic, Zoran

1993-01-01

This report covers technical progress during the second year of the contract entitled 'Determination of Coronal Magnetic Fields from Vector Magnetograms,' NASW-4728, between NASA and Science Applications International Corporation, and covers the period January 1, 1993 to December 31, 1993. Under this contract SAIC has conducted research into the determination of coronal magnetic fields from vector magnetograms, including the development and application of algorithms to determine force-free coronal fields above selected observations of active regions. The contract began on June 30, 1992 and has a completion date of December 31, 1994. This contract is a continuation of work started in a previous contract, NASW-4571, which covered the period November 15, 1990 to December 14, 1991. During this second year we have concentrated on studying additional active regions and in using the estimated coronal magnetic fields to compare to coronal features inferred from observations.

Ortho-H2 and the age of prestellar cores

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pagani, L.; Lesaffre, P.; Jorfi, M.; Honvault, P.; González-Lezana, T.; Faure, A.

2013-03-01

Prestellar cores form from the contraction of cold gas and dust material in dark clouds before they collapse to form protostars. Several concurrent theories exist to describe this contraction but they are currently difficult to distinguish. One major difference is the timescale involved in forming the prestellar cores: some theories advocate nearly free-fall speed via, e.g., rapid turbulence decay, while others can accommodate much longer periods to let the gas accumulate via, e.g., ambipolar diffusion. To tell the difference between these theories, measuring the age of prestellar cores could greatly help. However, no reliable clock currently exists. We present a simple chemical clock based on the regulation of the deuteration by the abundance of ortho-H2 that slowly decays away from the ortho-para statistical ratio of 3 down to or less than 0.001. We use a chemical network fully coupled to a hydrodynamical model that follows the contraction of a cloud, starting from uniform density, and reaches a density profile typical of a prestellar core. We compute the N2D+/N2H+ ratio along the density profile. The disappearance of ortho-H2 is tied to the duration of the contraction and the N2D+/N2H+ ratio increases in the wake of the ortho-H2 abundance decrease. By adjusting the time of contraction, we obtain different deuteration profiles that we can compare to the observations. Our model can test fast contractions (from 104 to 106 cm-3 in ~0.5 My) and slow contractions (from 104 to 106 cm-3 in ~5 My). We have tested the sensitivity of the models to various initial conditions. The slow-contraction deuteration profile is approximately insensitive to these variations, while the fast-contraction deuteration profile shows significant variations. We found that, in all cases, the deuteration profile remains clearly distinguishable whether it comes from the fast collapse or the slow collapse. We also study the para-D2H+/ortho-H2D+ ratio and find that its variation is not monotonic, so it does not discriminate between models. Applying this model to L183 (=L134N), we find that the N2D+/N2H+ ratio would be higher than unity for evolutionary timescales of a few megayears independently of other parameters, such as cosmic ray ionization rate or grain size (within reasonable ranges). A good fit to the observations is only obtained for fast contraction (≤0.7 My from the beginning of the contraction and ≤4 My from the birth of the molecular cloud based on the need to keep a high ortho-H2 abundance when the contraction starts - ortho-H2/para-H2 ≥ 0.2 - to match the observations). This chemical clock therefore rules out slow contraction in L183 and steady-state chemical models, since steady state is clearly not reached here. This clock should be applied to other cores to help distinguish slow and fast contraction theories over a large sample of cases. Appendices are available in electronic form at http://www.aanda.org

A randomized controlled trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of cardiac contractility modulation in patients with systolic heart failure: rationale, design, and baseline patient characteristics.

PubMed

Abraham, William T; Burkhoff, Daniel; Nademanee, Koonlawee; Carson, Peter; Bourge, Robert; Ellenbogen, Kenneth A; Parides, Michael; Kadish, Alan

2008-10-01

Cardiac contractility modulation (CCM) signals are nonexcitatory electrical signals delivered during the cardiac absolute refractory period that enhance the strength of cardiac muscular contraction. Prior research in experimental and human heart failure has shown that CCM signals normalize phosphorylation of key proteins and expression of genes coding for proteins involved in regulation of calcium cycling and contraction. The results of prior clinical studies of CCM have supported its safety and efficacy. A large-scale clinical study, the FIX-HF-5 study, is currently underway to test the safety and efficacy of this treatment. In this article, we provide an overview of the system used to deliver CCM signals, the implant procedure, and the details and rationale of the FIX-HF-5 study design. Baseline characteristics for patients randomized in this trial are also presented.

Preservation of cardiac function by prolonged action potentials in mice deficient of KChIP2.

PubMed

Grubb, Søren; Aistrup, Gary L; Koivumäki, Jussi T; Speerschneider, Tobias; Gottlieb, Lisa A; Mutsaers, Nancy A M; Olesen, Søren-Peter; Calloe, Kirstine; Thomsen, Morten B

2015-08-01

Inherited ion channelopathies and electrical remodeling in heart disease alter the cardiac action potential with important consequences for excitation-contraction coupling. Potassium channel-interacting protein 2 (KChIP2) is reduced in heart failure and interacts under physiological conditions with both Kv4 to conduct the fast-recovering transient outward K(+) current (Ito,f) and with CaV1.2 to mediate the inward L-type Ca(2+) current (ICa,L). Anesthetized KChIP2(-/-) mice have normal cardiac contraction despite the lower ICa,L, and we hypothesized that the delayed repolarization could contribute to the preservation of contractile function. Detailed analysis of current kinetics shows that only ICa,L density is reduced, and immunoblots demonstrate unaltered CaV1.2 and CaVβ₂ protein levels. Computer modeling suggests that delayed repolarization would prolong the period of Ca(2+) entry into the cell, thereby augmenting Ca(2+)-induced Ca(2+) release. Ca(2+) transients in disaggregated KChIP2(-/-) cardiomyocytes are indeed comparable to wild-type transients, corroborating the preserved contractile function and suggesting that the compensatory mechanism lies in the Ca(2+)-induced Ca(2+) release event. We next functionally probed dyad structure, ryanodine receptor Ca(2+) sensitivity, and sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) load and found that increased temporal synchronicity of the Ca(2+) release in KChIP2(-/-) cardiomyocytes may reflect improved dyad structure aiding the compensatory mechanisms in preserving cardiac contractile force. Thus the bimodal effect of KChIP2 on Ito,f and ICa,L constitutes an important regulatory effect of KChIP2 on cardiac contractility, and we conclude that delayed repolarization and improved dyad structure function together to preserve cardiac contraction in KChIP2(-/-) mice. Copyright © 2015 the American Physiological Society.

Metabolism of /sup 90/Sr and other elements in man, April 1, 1976--March 31, 1977 (extended without additional funding to March 31, 1978) and renewal proposal, April 1, 1978--March 31, 1979

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

Spencer, H.

1977-01-01

Trace element studies of cadmium, copper, zinc, lead, manganese, and nickel were carried out under strictly controlled dietary conditions in adult males during different calcium intakes. Complete metabolic balances of the trace elements listed above were determined in each 6-day metabolic period for several weeks by analyzing the constant diet and the urinary and fecal excretions of these naturally occurring elements, using atomic absorption spectroscopy. Strontium-90 metabolism studies in man were carried out in order to complete previously initiated investigations. Publications and presentations of papers derived from studies carried out during the current contract period are listed.

Some Contracting Controls at Mission and Installation Contracting Command, Fort Polk, Louisiana, Need Improvement

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-02-12

erosion control. Work that did not meet PWS requirements included laying pavement stones for a monument walkway and installing a glossy marble -like... property structures, roads, training areas, training facilities, and utility infrastructure. The contract period of performance consisted of a base year

75 FR 34942 - Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement; Multiyear Contract Authority for Electricity...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-06-21

...-AG48 Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement; Multiyear Contract Authority for Electricity... years for the purchase of electricity from sources of renewable energy. DATES: Effective Date: June 21... contract for a period not to exceed 10 years for the purchase of electricity from sources of renewable...

Selected Collective Bargaining Agreements of Ohio Two-Year Colleges.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Education Association, Washington, DC.

This collection of collective bargaining agreements contains contracts for two Ohio two-year colleges. The first agreement, between Edison State Community College and the Edison State Education Association, covers the contract period from 1989 to 1992. The 21 articles in the contract set forth provisions related to union recognition, management…

48 CFR 32.608-2 - Interest credits.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Interest credits. 32.608-2... REQUIREMENTS CONTRACT FINANCING Contract Debts 32.608-2 Interest credits. (a) An equitable interest credit... contract at some time during the period to which the interest charge applied, provided an interest penalty...

48 CFR 32.608-2 - Interest credits.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Interest credits. 32.608-2... REQUIREMENTS CONTRACT FINANCING Contract Debts 32.608-2 Interest credits. (a) An equitable interest credit... contract at some time during the period to which the interest charge applied, provided an interest penalty...

7 CFR 1402.5 - Late payments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... payments. If payment is not received by CCC within the period specified in the sales contract, interest will be assessed by CCC. If a buyer fails to make arrangements for payment according to the provisions of the contract, CCC retains the right to terminate the sales contract. If CCC terminates the sales...

7 CFR 1402.5 - Late payments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... payments. If payment is not received by CCC within the period specified in the sales contract, interest will be assessed by CCC. If a buyer fails to make arrangements for payment according to the provisions of the contract, CCC retains the right to terminate the sales contract. If CCC terminates the sales...

7 CFR 1402.5 - Late payments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... payments. If payment is not received by CCC within the period specified in the sales contract, interest will be assessed by CCC. If a buyer fails to make arrangements for payment according to the provisions of the contract, CCC retains the right to terminate the sales contract. If CCC terminates the sales...

7 CFR 1402.5 - Late payments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... payments. If payment is not received by CCC within the period specified in the sales contract, interest will be assessed by CCC. If a buyer fails to make arrangements for payment according to the provisions of the contract, CCC retains the right to terminate the sales contract. If CCC terminates the sales...

7 CFR 1402.5 - Late payments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... payments. If payment is not received by CCC within the period specified in the sales contract, interest will be assessed by CCC. If a buyer fails to make arrangements for payment according to the provisions of the contract, CCC retains the right to terminate the sales contract. If CCC terminates the sales...

Do you know your business associates?

PubMed

Hinkley, Gerald M; Glitz, Rachel; Hirsch, W Reece

2003-01-01

HIPAA's business associate rules require covered entities to identify their business associates and enter into contracts with them to safeguard the privacy of individually identifiable health information. Covered entities need to determine who their business associates are and whether exceptions apply. Covered entities need to examine their business associate contracts to ensure that the contracts contain provisions required by HIPAA. Covered entities should not enter into business associate contracts unnecessarily. Existing business associate contracts are subject to a transition period for compliance with HIPAA.

NASA-KSC/Florida Dual Use Technology Partnership

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kershaw, David

2001-01-01

This document constitutes the Technological Research and Development Authority's (TRDA) Final Reports for the NASA-KSC/Florida Dual Use Technology Partnership grant covering the period December 1, 1999 through November 30, 2000. The NASA Grant and Cooperative Agreement Handbook requires the TRDA to provide NASA with a final report on Subject Inventions, Federal Cash Transactions, Summary Research, and Federally-Owned Property. This report contains those requirements as well as a description of the TRDA's grant performance related to activities undertaken, difficulties incurred, remedial actions, and the current financial status of the contract.

NASA Extends Chandra Science and Operations Support Contract

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

2010-01-01

NASA has extended a contract with the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory in Cambridge, Mass., to provide science and operational support for the Chandra X-ray Observatory, a powerful tool used to better understand the structure and evolution of the universe. The contract extension with the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory provides continued science and operations support to Chandra. This approximately 172 million modification brings the total value of the contract to approximately 545 million for the base effort. The base effort period of performance will continue through Sept. 30, 2013, except for the work associated with the administration of scientific research grants, which will extend through Feb. 28, 2016. The contract type is cost reimbursement with no fee. In addition to the base effort, the contract includes two options for three years each to extend the period of performance for an additional six years. Option 1 is priced at approximately 177 million and Option 2 at approximately 191 million, for a total possible contract value of about $913 million. The contract covers mission operations and data analysis, which includes observatory operations, science data processing and astronomer support. The operations tasks include monitoring the health and status of the observatory and developing and uplinking the observation sequences during Chandra's communication coverage periods. The science data processing tasks include the competitive selection, planning and coordination of science observations and processing and delivery of the resulting scientific data. NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Ala, manages the Chandra program for the agency's Science Mission Directorate in Washington. The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory controls Chandra's science and flight operations. For more information about the Chandra X-ray Observatory visit: http://chandra.nasa.gov

Cerebral correlates of the "Kohnstamm phenomenon": an fMRI study.

PubMed

Duclos, C; Roll, R; Kavounoudias, A; Roll, J-P

2007-01-15

This paper addresses the issue of the central correlates of the "Kohnstamm phenomenon", i.e. the long-lasting involuntary muscle contraction which develops after a prolonged isometric voluntary contraction. Although this phenomenon was described as early as 1915, the mechanisms underlying these post-effects are not yet understood. It was therefore proposed to investigate whether specific brain areas may be involved in the motor post-effects induced by either wrist muscle contraction or vibration using the fMRI method. For this purpose, experiments were carried out on the right wrist of 11 healthy subjects. Muscle activity (EMG) and regional cerebral blood flow were recorded during isometric voluntary muscle contraction and muscle vibration, as well as during the subsequent involuntary contractions (the post-effects) which occurred under both conditions. Brain activations were found to occur during the post-contraction and post-vibration periods, which were very similar under both conditions. Brain activation involved motor-related areas usually responsible for voluntary motor command (primary sensory and motor cortices, premotor cortex, anterior and posterior cingulate gyrus) and sensorimotor integration structures such as the posterior parietal cortex. Comparisons between the patterns of brain activation associated with the involuntary post-effects and those accompanying voluntary contraction showed that cerebellar vermis was activated during the post-effect periods whereas the supplementary motor area was activated only during the induction periods. Although post-effects originate from asymmetric proprioceptive inputs, they might also involve a central network where the motor and somatosensory areas and the cerebellum play a key role. In functional terms, they might result from the adaptive recalibration of the postural reference frame altered by the sustained proprioceptive inputs elicited by muscle contraction and vibration.

WORKSHOP ON IMPROVING THE QUALITY SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS FOR EPA'S CONTRACTS

EPA Science Inventory

EPA is currently revising its quality-related policies for soliitations and contracts. This is a result of changes to the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), new flexibility in contracting procedures such as simplified acquisition, and new type4s of contracting such as perform...

77 FR 71827 - Notice of Extension of Concession Contracts

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-12-04

... concession contracts for a period of up to 1 (one) year, or until such time as a new contract is executed, whichever occurs sooner. DATES: Effective Date: January 1, 2013. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jo A.... Canyon National Parks. BRCA001-03 Bryce Canyon Natural Bryce Canyon History Association. National Park...

48 CFR 32.103 - Progress payments under construction contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... contractor during any period for which a progress payment is to be made, a percentage of the progress payment may be retained. Retainage should not be used as a substitute for good contract management, and the contracting officer should not withhold funds without cause. Determinations to retain and the specific amount...

48 CFR 217.173 - Multiyear contracts for military family housing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... each year from annual appropriations for that year (10 U.S.C. 2829). [76 FR 58154, Sept. 20, 2011] ... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 3 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Multiyear contracts for... enter into multiyear contracts for periods up to 4 years for supplies and services required for...

26 CFR 1.6043-3T - Returns regarding liquidation, dissolution, termination, or substantial contraction of...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

..., termination, or substantial contraction of organizations exempt from taxation under section 501(a) (temporary..., dissolution, termination, or substantial contraction of organizations exempt from taxation under section 501(a... organization no longer exempt from taxation under section 501(a) and that during the period of its exemption...

[Operation/Maintenance of Fiber Placement Machine

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pelham, L.; Dillard, T.

2000-01-01

NASA contract NAS8-39749 was completed in January 2000. The contract period of performance covered six (6) years and included basic program technical support as required by NASA with up to thirty (30) different technical directives identified and issued by NASA for specific Advanced Composite Technology tasks during the course of the contract.

48 CFR 352.228-7 - Insurance-liability to third persons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... SERVICES CLAUSES AND FORMS SOLICITATION PROVISIONS AND CONTRACT CLAUSES Texts of Provisions and Clauses 352... paragraph shall be in form and amount and for those periods as the Contracting Officer may require or... Cost and Payment clause of this contract. (g) If any suit or action is filed or any claim is made...

48 CFR 352.228-7 - Insurance-liability to third persons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... SERVICES CLAUSES AND FORMS SOLICITATION PROVISIONS AND CONTRACT CLAUSES Texts of Provisions and Clauses 352... paragraph shall be in form and amount and for those periods as the Contracting Officer may require or... Cost and Payment clause of this contract. (g) If any suit or action is filed or any claim is made...

Consequences of intravascular lymphatic valve properties: a study of contraction timing in a multi-lymphangion model

PubMed Central

Macaskill, Charlie; Davis, Michael J.; Moore, James E.

2016-01-01

The observed properties of valves in collecting lymphatic vessels include transmural pressure-dependent bias to the open state and hysteresis. The bias may reduce resistance to flow when the vessel is functioning as a conduit. However, lymphatic pumping implies a streamwise increase in mean pressure across each valve, suggesting that the bias is then potentially unhelpful. Lymph pumping by a model of several collecting lymphatic vessel segments (lymphangions) in series, which incorporated these properties, was investigated under conditions of adverse pressure difference while varying the refractory period between active muscular contractions and the inter-lymphangion contraction delay. It was found that many combinations of the timing parameters and the adverse pressure difference led to one or more intermediate valves remaining open instead of switching between open and closed states during repetitive contraction cycles. Cyclic valve switching was reliably indicated if the mean pressure in a lymphangion over a cycle was higher than that in the lymphangion upstream, but either lack of or very brief valve closure could cause mean pressure to be lower downstream. Widely separated combinations of refractory period and delay time were found to produce the greatest flow-rate for a given pressure difference. The efficiency of pumping was always maximized by a long refractory period and lymphangion contraction starting when the contraction of the lymphangion immediately upstream was peaking. By means of an ex vivo experiment, it was verified that intermediate valves in a chain of pumping lymphangions can remain open, while the lymphangions on either side of the open valve continue to execute contractions. PMID:26747501

Familial Periodic Paralyses

MedlinePlus

... by episodes in which the affected muscles become slack, weak, and unable to contract. Between attacks, the ... by episodes in which the affected muscles become slack, weak, and unable to contract. Between attacks, the ...

77 FR 38267 - Information Collection; Role of Communities in Stewardship Contracting Projects

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-27

...) Nature of roles played by the entities involved in developing agreement or contract plans, (c) Benefits... Collection; Role of Communities in Stewardship Contracting Projects AGENCY: Forest Service, USDA. ACTION... revision of a currently approved information collection, Role of Communities in Stewardship Contracting...

Generation of poleward moving auroral forms (PMAFs) during periods of dayside auroral oval expansions/contractions and periods when the dayside auroral oval is expanded and stable

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fasel, G. J.; Flicker, J.; Sibeck, D. G.; Alyami, M.; Angelo, A.; Aylward, R. J.; Bender, S.; Christensen, M.; Kim, J.; Kristensen, H.; Orellana, Y.; Sahin, O.; Yoon, J.; Green, D.; Sigernes, F.; Lorentzen, D. A.

2013-12-01

The latitude of the equatorial edge of the dayside auroral oval has been shown to vary with the direction of the IMF Bz-component. The equatorward/poleward edge of the dayside auroral oval shifts equatorward/poleward when the IMF Bz-component is negative/positive [Burch, 1973; Akasofu, 1977; Horwitz and Akasofu, 1977; Sandholt et al., 1986, 1988]. Past studies have shown that poleward-moving auroral forms (PMAFs) are a common feature during equatorward expansions of the dayside auroral oval. Horwitz and Akasofu [1977] noted a one-to-one correspondence of luminous PMAFs associated with an equatorward expansion of the dayside auroral oval. During the southward turning of the IMF Bz-component the merging rate on the dayside increases [Newell and Meng, 1987] leading to the erosion of the dayside magnetopause. The field line merging process is thought to be most efficient when the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) Bz-component turns southward. Both Vorobjev et al. [1975] and Horwitz and Akasofu [1977] attributed these PMAFs to magnetic flux being eroded away from the dayside magnetopause and transported antisunward. Dayside poleward-moving auroral forms are also observed during periods of an expanded and stable dayside auroral oval for both northern and southern hemisphere observations [Sandholt et al., 1986, 1989, 1990; Rairden and Mende, 1989; Mende et al., 1990]. Poleward-moving auroral forms have also been observed during some dayside oval contractions but have not been discussed much in the literature. This study examines the dayside auroral oval during periods of expansion, contraction, and during periods of an expanded and stable dayside auroral oval. This statistical study will provide the following results: number of poleward-moving auroral forms that are generated during dayside auroral oval expansions/contractions and during periods of a stable and expanded dayside auroral oval, the average initial and final elevation angle of the dayside auroral oval, time for dayside auroral oval to expand or contract, and the solar wind parameters (IMF Bx, By, Bz, speed, and pressure) associated with each interval (expansion, contraction, or stable and expanded).

48 CFR 22.604-2 - Regulatory exemptions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... the defaulted contract. (4) Newspapers, magazines, or periodicals, contracted for with sales agents or... finding by the agency head stating the reasons why the conduct of Government business will be seriously...

48 CFR 48.001 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

.... Contracting office includes any contracting office that the acquisition is transferred to, such as another... projected learning or changes in quantity during the sharing period. It is calculated at the time the VECP...

48 CFR 509.405-1 - Continuation of current contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... to the debarment or suspension also constitute a default in the contractor's performance of the contract. (2) The contractor presents a significant risk to the Government in completing the contract. (3...

17 CFR 31.8 - Cover of leverage contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... current market value of the commodity represented by each receipt. (ii) Warehouse receipts for gold bullion in the case of leverage contracts on bulk gold coins, bulk gold coins in the case of leverage contracts on gold bullion, silver bullion in the case of leverage contracts on bulk silver coins, bulk...

17 CFR 31.8 - Cover of leverage contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... current market value of the commodity represented by each receipt. (ii) Warehouse receipts for gold bullion in the case of leverage contracts on bulk gold coins, bulk gold coins in the case of leverage contracts on gold bullion, silver bullion in the case of leverage contracts on bulk silver coins, bulk...

17 CFR 31.8 - Cover of leverage contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... current market value of the commodity represented by each receipt. (ii) Warehouse receipts for gold bullion in the case of leverage contracts on bulk gold coins, bulk gold coins in the case of leverage contracts on gold bullion, silver bullion in the case of leverage contracts on bulk silver coins, bulk...

Psychological contract breaches, organizational commitment, and innovation-related behaviors: a latent growth modeling approach.

PubMed

Ng, Thomas W H; Feldman, Daniel C; Lam, Simon S K

2010-07-01

This study examined the relationships among psychological contract breaches, organizational commitment, and innovation-related behaviors (generating, spreading, implementing innovative ideas at work) over a 6-month period. Results indicate that the effects of psychological contract breaches on employees are not static. Specifically, perceptions of psychological contract breaches strengthened over time and were associated with decreased levels of affective commitment over time. Further, increased perceptions of psychological contract breaches were associated with decreases in innovation-related behaviors. We also found evidence that organizational commitment mediates the relationship between psychological contract breaches and innovation-related behaviors. These results highlight the importance of examining the nomological network of psychological contract breaches from a change perspective.

Strategic contracting practices to improve procurement of health commodities

PubMed Central

Arney, Leslie; Yadav, Prashant; Miller, Roger; Wilkerson, Taylor

2014-01-01

ABSTRACT Public-sector entities responsible for procurement of essential medicines and health commodities in developing countries often lack the technical capacity to efficiently ensure supply security. Under strict public scrutiny and pressures to be transparent, many agencies continue to use archaic procurement methods and to depend on inflexible forecasts and cumbersome tendering processes. On the basis of semi-structured literature reviews and interviews, we identified framework agreements as a strategic procurement practice used by the U.S. federal government that may also be suitable for global health supply chains. Framework agreements are long-term contracts that provide the terms and conditions under which smaller repeat purchasing orders may be issued for a defined period of time. Such agreements are common in U.S. and United Nations procurement systems and in other developed countries and multilateral organizations. In contrast, framework agreements appear to be seldom used in procurement of health commodities in countries of sub-Saharan Africa. The current practice of floating tenders multiple times a year contributes to long lead times and stock-outs, and it hampers the manufacturer's or supplier's ability to plan and respond to the government's needs. To date, government's use of strategic contracting practices in public procurement of health commodities has not received much attention in most developing countries. It may present an opportunity for substantial improvements in procurement efficiency and commodity availability. Enabling legislation and strengthened technical capacity to develop and manage long-term contracts could facilitate the use of framework contracts in sub-Saharan Africa, with improved supply security and cost savings likely to result. PMID:25276589

Strategic contracting practices to improve procurement of health commodities.

PubMed

Arney, Leslie; Yadav, Prashant; Miller, Roger; Wilkerson, Taylor

2014-08-01

Public-sector entities responsible for procurement of essential medicines and health commodities in developing countries often lack the technical capacity to efficiently ensure supply security. Under strict public scrutiny and pressures to be transparent, many agencies continue to use archaic procurement methods and to depend on inflexible forecasts and cumbersome tendering processes. On the basis of semi-structured literature reviews and interviews, we identified framework agreements as a strategic procurement practice used by the U.S. federal government that may also be suitable for global health supply chains. Framework agreements are long-term contracts that provide the terms and conditions under which smaller repeat purchasing orders may be issued for a defined period of time. Such agreements are common in U.S. and United Nations procurement systems and in other developed countries and multilateral organizations. In contrast, framework agreements appear to be seldom used in procurement of health commodities in countries of sub-Saharan Africa. The current practice of floating tenders multiple times a year contributes to long lead times and stock-outs, and it hampers the manufacturer's or supplier's ability to plan and respond to the government's needs. To date, government's use of strategic contracting practices in public procurement of health commodities has not received much attention in most developing countries. It may present an opportunity for substantial improvements in procurement efficiency and commodity availability. Enabling legislation and strengthened technical capacity to develop and manage long-term contracts could facilitate the use of framework contracts in sub-Saharan Africa, with improved supply security and cost savings likely to result.

Dependences of contraction/expansion of stacking faults on temperature and current density in 4H-SiC p–i–n diodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Okada, Aoi; Nishio, Johji; Iijima, Ryosuke; Ota, Chiharu; Goryu, Akihiro; Miyazato, Masaki; Ryo, Mina; Shinohe, Takashi; Miyajima, Masaaki; Kato, Tomohisa; Yonezawa, Yoshiyuki; Okumura, Hajime

2018-06-01

To investigate the mechanism of contraction/expansion behavior of Shockley stacking faults (SSFs) in 4H-SiC p–i–n diodes, the dependences of the SSF behavior on temperature and injection current density were investigated by electroluminescence image observation. We investigated the dependences of both triangle- and bar-shaped SSFs on the injection current density at four temperature levels. All SSFs in this study show similar temperature and injection current density dependences. We found that the expansion of SSFs at a high current density was converted to contraction at a certain value as the current decreased and that the value is temperature-dependent. It has been confirmed that SSF behavior, which was considered complex or peculiar, might be explained mainly by the energy change caused by SSFs.

Modulation of contraction by intracellular Na+ via Na(+)-Ca2+ exchange in single shark (Squalus acanthias) ventricular myocytes.

PubMed Central

Näbauer, M; Morad, M

1992-01-01

1. The effect of direct alteration of intracellular Na+ concentration on contractile properties of whole-cell clamped shark ventricular myocytes was studied using an array of 256 photodiodes to monitor the length of the isolated myocytes. 2. In myocytes dialysed with Na(+)-free solution, the voltage dependence of Ca2+ current (ICa) and contraction were similar and bell shaped. Contractions activated at all voltages were completely suppressed by nifedipine (5 microM), and failed to show significant tonic components, suggesting dependence of the contraction on Ca2+ influx through the L-type Ca2+ channel. 3. In myocytes dialysed with 60 mM Na+, a ICa-dependent and a ICa-independent component of contraction could be identified. The Ca2+ current-dependent component was prominent in voltages between -30 to +10 mV. The ICa-independent contractions were maintained for the duration of depolarization, increased with increasing depolarization between +10 to +100 mV, and were insensitive to nifedipine. 4. In such myocytes, repolarization produced slowly decaying inward tail currents closely related to the time course of relaxation and the degree of shortening prior to repolarization. 5. With 60 mM Na+ in the pipette solution, positive clamp potentials activated decaying outward currents which correlated to the size of contraction. These outward currents appeared to be generated by the Na(+)-Ca(2+)-exchanger since they depended on the presence of intracellular Na+, and were neither suppressed by nifedipine nor by K+ channel blockers. 6. The results suggest that in shark (Squalus acanthias) ventricular myocytes, which lack functionally relevant Ca2+ release pools, both Ca2+ channel and the Na(+)-Ca2+ exchanger deliver sufficient Ca2+ to activate contraction, though the effectiveness of the latter mechanism was highly dependent on the [Na+]i. PMID:1338467

48 CFR 52.217-2 - Cancellation Under Multiyear Contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... precluded anticipated benefits of Contractor or subcontractor learning. (g) The claim shall not include— (1...) This contract may include an Option clause with the period for exercising the option limited to the...

48 CFR 16.501-1 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... maximum quantity) and that provides for the issuance of orders for the performance of tasks during the... of orders for the delivery of supplies during the period of the contract. Task-order contract means a...

Strategic Business Plan for Economic Development Contract Services, July 1995-June 1997.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fox Valley Technical Coll., Appleton, WI.

This plan describes the contract training and technical assistance services provided by Wisconsin's Fox Valley Technical College (FVTC) to area employers, focusing on the status of the services and ways to improve delivery for the July 1995 to June 1997 period. Following an executive summary, the second section focuses on contract services…

The rising cost of NIH-funded biomedical research?

PubMed

Kennedy, T J

1990-02-01

During the last decade, total appropriations for the NIH have grown in current as well as constant dollars. Constant dollar expenditures for indirect costs and research project grants have increased, as also has the number of the latter, while such expenditures for research centers, training, and research contracts have shrunk. The most impressive redistribution in emphasis has been toward traditional research project grants (R01s). The size of the average R01 award, discounted for inflation, has grown at an annual rate of 1.1% during the last decade and 1.3% since fiscal year (FY) 1970; that of the average research program project (P01) has declined over the same periods, after a slight rise in the early 1970s. Factors contributing to the modest rise in the real (constant-dollar) size of the average R01 are explored. The regularity with which current-services-requirements estimates for the NIH exceed inflation reflects real growth in the program, particularly in the category of research project grants; the artifact of basing calculations on the post-rather than pre-"negotiated" levels of awards in the "current" year; and the extent to which the project periods of awards have been extended. The effect of lengthening project periods is slow to become manifest, but inexorably swells the pool of non-competing awards; decisions in this area undertaken in 1985, and continued at least through FY 1988, could very significantly increase current services requirements in FYs 1991 and 1992.

The beta-3 adrenoceptor agonist, mirabegron relaxes isolated prostate from human and rabbit: new therapeutic indication?

PubMed

Calmasini, Fabiano B; Candido, Tuany Z; Alexandre, Eduardo C; D'Ancona, Carlos A; Silva, Daniel; de Oliveira, Marco Antonio; De Nucci, Gilberto; Antunes, Edson; Mónica, Fabíola Z

2015-03-01

Alpha1 (α1)-blockers, 5-alpha reductase and phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitors are pharmacological classes currently available for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) treatment. Mirabegron, a beta-3 adrenoceptor (β3-AR) agonist has been approved for the therapy of overactive bladder and may constitute a new therapeutic option for BPH treatment. This study is aimed to evaluate the in vitro effects of mirabegron in human and rabbit prostatic smooth muscle. In rabbit prostate, electrical field stimulation (EFS)-induced contraction and concentration-response curve (CRC) to mirabegron in phenylephrine pre-contracted tissues were carried out. The potency (pEC50 ) and maximal response (Emax ) values were determined. In human prostate, CRC to phenylephrine was carried out in the absence and presence of mirabegron. Immunohistochemistry analysis for β3-AR was also carried out. In human prostate, immunohistochemistry analysis revealed the presence of β3-AR on the transition zone and mirabegron reduced by 42% the phenylephrine-induced contractions. In rabbit prostate, mirabegron produced concentration-dependent relaxations (pEC50 : 6.01 ± 0.12; Emax : 106 ± 3%), which were fully resistant to the blockade of β1-AR and β2-AR. The β3-AR blocker L748,337 caused a six-fold rightward shift in mirabegron-induced relaxations. Mirabegron (10 μM) reduced by 63% the EFS-induced contractions. Inhibitors of nitric oxide (L-NAME) and of soluble guanylate cyclase (ODQ) along with a cocktail of K+ channel blockers (apamin, charybdotoxin, glibenclamide, tetraethylammonium) all failed to significantly affect the mirabegron-induced rabbit relaxations. Mirabegron relaxes prostatic smooth muscle, providing an experimental support for the clinical investigation of its combination with an α1-blockers or PDE5 inhibitors in the treatment of BPH. Prostate 75:440-447, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The Air Force Needs to Improve Cost-Effectiveness and Availability of the Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (Redacted)

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-11-01

Target Attack Radar System Objective We determined whether the Air Force made cost-effective purchases on the performance-based logistics contract to... contract to Northrop Grumman Corporation to provide Total System Support Responsibility services to sustain 16 E-8C JSTARS aircraft. These services...customer support. The Total System Support Responsibility contract is valued at $7 billion, with a 6-year base period and 16 annual contract option

Duration of general practitioner contracts.

PubMed

Abelsen, Birgit; Gaski, Margrete; Brandstorp, Helen

2015-12-01

The regular GP scheme is intended to promote continuity in the relationship between doctor and patient. The duration of GP contracts is therefore a key factor in the success of the scheme. This study examines how long the GP contracts last and whether their duration varies according to doctors' gender and age, municipality size and list size. The study encompasses 7,359 GP contracts throughout Norway, entered into between municipalities and doctors in the period 1 May 2001 - 1 May 2014. Duration is measured as the time from which the contract was signed until its expiry or the end of the study period. The material was analysed with measures of central tendencies and dispersion, Kaplan-Meier survival curve analysis and Cox proportional hazards regression. Median duration of a GP contract at the time of the study was 5.91 years. It varied between 2.75 years in the smallest municipalities and 8.37 years in the largest ones. The duration of a GP contract increased significantly if the doctor was a woman, or with the doctor's age at the start of the contract, increased municipality size and increased list size. If it is assumed that continuity in the doctor-patient relationship provides a qualitatively better GP service, the results indicate that patients in small municipalities are generally offered a lower-quality service than patients in large municipalities.

Alternative methods for safety analysis and intervention for contracting commercial vehicles and drivers in Connecticut

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-06-01

This study evaluated Connecticuts current system for qualifying contractors for : the use of commercial vehicles on state contracts, identifies its impacts, and : makes recommendations on how the state should revise the current system. The : prima...

Collective Bargaining in Higher Education: Contract Content - 1972.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Goodwin, Harold I.; Andes, John O.

This document presents a statement indicating to those who are or may become engaged in drafting collective bargaining contracts in higher education institutions the major substance of current contracts. Accordingly, a series of tables are laid out showing by major topics the type and range of items found in the pool of 101 contracts, the…

17 CFR 232.313 - Identification of investment company type and series and/or class (or contract).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... company type and series and/or class (or contract). 232.313 Section 232.313 Commodity and Securities... series and/or class (or contract). (a) Registered investment companies and business development companies... keep current, information concerning their existing and new series and/or classes (or contracts, in the...

17 CFR 232.313 - Identification of investment company type and series and/or class (or contract).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... company type and series and/or class (or contract). 232.313 Section 232.313 Commodity and Securities... series and/or class (or contract). (a) Registered investment companies and business development companies... keep current, information concerning their existing and new series and/or classes (or contracts, in the...

Effects of contraction duration on low-frequency fatigue in voluntary and electrically induced exercise of quadriceps muscle in humans.

PubMed

Ratkevicius, A; Skurvydas, A; Povilonis, E; Quistorff, B; Lexell, J

1998-04-01

The aims of this study were to investigate if low-frequency fatigue (LFF) dependent on the duration of repeated muscle contractions and to compare LFF in voluntary and electrically induced exercise. Male subjects performed three 9-min periods of repeated isometric knee extensions at 40% maximal voluntary contraction with contraction plus relaxation periods of 30 plus 60 s, 15 plus 30 s and 5 plus 10 s in protocols 1, 2 and 3, respectively. The same exercise protocols were repeated using feedback-controlled electrical stimulation at 40% maximal tetanic torque. Before and 15 min after each exercise period, knee extension torque at 1, 7, 10, 15, 20, 50 and 100 Hz was assessed. During voluntary exercise, electromyogram root mean square (EMGrms) of the vastus lateralis muscle was evaluated. The 20-Hz torque:100-Hz torque (20:100 Hz torque) ratio was reduced more after electrically induced than after voluntary exercise (P < 0.05). During electrically induced exercise, the decrease in 20:100 Hz torque ratio was gradually (P < 0.05) reduced as the individual contractions shortened. During voluntary exercise, the decrease in 20:100 Hz torque ratio and the increase in EMGrms were greater in protocol 1 (P < 0.01) than in protocols 2 and 3, which did not differ from each other. In conclusion, our results showed that LFF is dependent on the duration of individual muscle contractions during repetitive isometric exercise and that the electrically induced exercise produced a more pronounced LFF compared to voluntary exercise of submaximal intensity. It is suggested that compensatory recruitment of faster-contracting motor units is an additional factor affecting the severity of LFF during voluntary exercise.

23 CFR 635.118 - Payroll and weekly statements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE Contract Procedures § 635.118 Payroll and weekly statements. For all projects... contract provisions for the project, are to be retained by the STD for the time period pursuant to 49 CFR...

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.

Changes in oxygen consumption of human muscle and tendon following repeat muscle contractions.

PubMed

Kubo, Keitaro; Ikebukuro, Toshihiro; Tsunoda, Naoya; Kanehisa, Hiroaki

2008-11-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate changes in the oxygen consumption (VO(2)) of muscle and tendon following repeat muscle contractions. During endurance tests (50 repetitions at 70% of the maximum voluntary contraction with 5-s contractions and 5-s rest) and the recovery period (0-10 min), we measured the blood volume and oxygen saturation (StO(2)) of the medial gastrocnemius muscle and Achilles tendon using near infrared spectroscopy and red laser light. Nine male subjects performed the endurance tests three times on separate days (tests-1, 2, and 3). Before and after (test-1: immediately after, test-2: at the 5-min recovery point, test-3: at the 10-min recovery point) the endurance tests, the rate of StO(2) during 8-min period of arterial occlusion was measured to estimate the VO(2) of muscle and tendon. In test-3, after the end of exercise, the THb and StO(2) of the Achilles tendon increased gradually, and these values were higher than the pre-exercise levels until the end of the recovery period. The VO(2) of tendon as well as muscle increased significantly after the repeat muscle contractions. Furthermore, the VO(2) of tendon returned to the pre-exercise level at the 10-min point of recovery, although that of muscle was significantly higher compared to the pre-exercise level until the end of the recovery period. These results indicate that the difference between oxygen supply and consumption within tendon was greater after compared to before exercise.

24 CFR 886.309 - Housing assistance payment to owners.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... available as of the effective date of the Contract is not leased within 15 days of the effective date of the... Contract Rent for the unit for a vacancy period not exceeding 60 days from the effective date of the Contract provided that the Owner (1) has submitted a list of units leased as of the effective date and a...

24 CFR 886.309 - Housing assistance payment to owners.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... available as of the effective date of the Contract is not leased within 15 days of the effective date of the... Contract Rent for the unit for a vacancy period not exceeding 60 days from the effective date of the Contract provided that the Owner (1) has submitted a list of units leased as of the effective date and a...

24 CFR 886.309 - Housing assistance payment to owners.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... available as of the effective date of the Contract is not leased within 15 days of the effective date of the... Contract Rent for the unit for a vacancy period not exceeding 60 days from the effective date of the Contract provided that the Owner (1) has submitted a list of units leased as of the effective date and a...

24 CFR 886.309 - Housing assistance payment to owners.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... available as of the effective date of the Contract is not leased within 15 days of the effective date of the... Contract Rent for the unit for a vacancy period not exceeding 60 days from the effective date of the Contract provided that the Owner (1) has submitted a list of units leased as of the effective date and a...

26 CFR 1.953-1 - Income from insurance of United States risks.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... example 1 except that M Corporation cancels the contract on August 31, 1963. For 1963, the policy period under such contract as to A Corporation is July 1, 1963, to August 31, 1963. Example 3. The facts are... § 1.953-5, which is attributable to the reinsuring or the issuing of any insurance or annuity contract...

Searching for Contracting Patterns over Time: Do Prime Contractor and Subcontractor Relations Follow Similar Patterns for Professional Services Provision?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ponomariov, Branco; Kingsley, Gordon; Boardman, Craig

2011-01-01

This paper compares over a 12-year period (1) patterns of contracting between a state transportation agency and its prime contractors providing engineering design services with (2) patterns between these prime contractors and their subcontractors. We find evidence of different contracting patterns at each level that emerge over time and coexist in…

Ab-Initio analysis of TlBr: limiting the ionic current without degrading the electronic one

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rocha Leao, Cedric; Lordi, Vincenzo

2011-03-01

Although TlBr in principle presents all the theoretical requirements for making high resolution room temperature radiation detectors, practical applications of TlBr have proven to be nonviable due to the polarization that is observed in the crystal after relatively short periods of operation. This polarization, that is believed to be caused by accumulation of oppositely charged ionic species at the ends of the crystal, results in an electric field that opposes that of the applied bias, counter-acting its effect. In this work, we use state of the art quantum modeling to benchmark the theoretical limits for the performance of TlBr as a radiation detector, showing that the best experimental reports demonstrate near-ideal electronic characteristics. We then propose a model to inhibit the detrimental ionic current in the material without impacting the excellent properties of the electronic current. Prepared by LLNL under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344.

Medicare program; description of the Health Care Financing Administration's evaluation methodology for the Peer Review Organization 5th Scope of Work contracts--HCFA. General notice with comment period.

PubMed

1997-07-02

This notice describes how HCFA intends to evaluate the Peer Review Organizations (PROs) for quality improvement activities, under their 5th Scope of Work (SOW) contracts, for efficiency and effectiveness in accordance with the Social Security Act. In accordance with the provisions of the Government Performance and Results Act of 1993, the 5th SOW contracts with the PROs are performance-based contracts.

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

Not Available

This paper reports that Myanmar's state oil company has awarded production sharing contracts (PSCs) on two blocks to units of Apache Corp. and Santa Fe Energy Resources Inc., both of Houston. That comes on the heels of a report by County NatWest Woodmac that notes Myanmar's oil production, currently meeting less than half the country's demand, is set to fall further this year. 150 line km of new seismic data could be acquired and one well drilled. During the initial 2 year exploration period on Block EP-3, Apache will conduct geological studies and conduct at least 200 line km ofmore » seismic data.« less

7 CFR 1788.48 - Contract insurance requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

..., DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (CONTINUED) RUS FIDELITY AND INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTRIC AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS BORROWERS Insurance for Contractors, Engineers, and Architects, Telecommunications Borrowers..., engineers, and architects shall provide that they take out and maintain throughout the contract period...

7 CFR 1788.48 - Contract insurance requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

..., DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (CONTINUED) RUS FIDELITY AND INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTRIC AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS BORROWERS Insurance for Contractors, Engineers, and Architects, Telecommunications Borrowers..., engineers, and architects shall provide that they take out and maintain throughout the contract period...

7 CFR 1788.48 - Contract insurance requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

..., DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (CONTINUED) RUS FIDELITY AND INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTRIC AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS BORROWERS Insurance for Contractors, Engineers, and Architects, Telecommunications Borrowers..., engineers, and architects shall provide that they take out and maintain throughout the contract period...

7 CFR 1788.48 - Contract insurance requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

..., DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (CONTINUED) RUS FIDELITY AND INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTRIC AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS BORROWERS Insurance for Contractors, Engineers, and Architects, Telecommunications Borrowers..., engineers, and architects shall provide that they take out and maintain throughout the contract period...

7 CFR 1788.48 - Contract insurance requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

..., DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (CONTINUED) RUS FIDELITY AND INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTRIC AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS BORROWERS Insurance for Contractors, Engineers, and Architects, Telecommunications Borrowers..., engineers, and architects shall provide that they take out and maintain throughout the contract period...

23 CFR 635.113 - Bid opening and bid tabulations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE Contract Procedures § 635.113 Bid opening and bid tabulations. (a) All bids... contractors, during the period following the opening of bids and before the award of the contract shall not be...

On the convergence of an iterative formulation of the electromagnetic scattering from an infinite grating of thin wires

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brand, J. C.

1985-01-01

Contraction theory is applied to an iterative formulation of electromagnetic scattering from periodic structures and a computational method for insuring convergence is developed. A short history of spectral (or k-space) formulation is presented with an emphasis on application to periodic surfaces. The mathematical background for formulating an iterative equation is covered using straightforward single variable examples including an extension to vector spaces. To insure a convergent solution of the iterative equation, a process called the contraction corrector method is developed. Convergence properties of previously presented iterative solutions to one-dimensional problems are examined utilizing contraction theory and the general conditions for achieving a convergent solution are explored. The contraction corrector method is then applied to several scattering problems including an infinite grating of thin wires with the solution data compared to previous works.

High-definition transcranial direct-current stimulation of the right M1 further facilitates left M1 excitability during crossed facilitation.

PubMed

Cabibel, Vincent; Muthalib, Makii; Teo, Wei-Peng; Perrey, Stephane

2018-04-01

The crossed-facilitation (CF) effect refers to when motor-evoked potentials (MEPs) evoked in the relaxed muscles of one arm are facilitated by contraction of the opposite arm. The aim of this study was to determine whether high-definition transcranial direct-current stimulation (HD-tDCS) applied to the right primary motor cortex (M1) controlling the left contracting arm [50% maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC)] would further facilitate CF toward the relaxed right arm. Seventeen healthy right-handed subjects participated in an anodal and cathodal or sham HD-tDCS session of the right M1 (2 mA for 20 min) separated by at least 48 h. Single-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) was used to elicit MEPs and cortical silent periods (CSPs) from the left M1 at baseline and 10 min into and after right M1 HD-tDCS. At baseline, compared with resting, CF (i.e., right arm resting, left arm 50% MVIC) increased left M1 MEP amplitudes (+97%) and decreased CSPs (-11%). The main novel finding was that right M1 HD-tDCS further increased left M1 excitability (+28.3%) and inhibition (+21%) from baseline levels during CF of the left M1, with no difference between anodal and cathodal HD-tDCS sessions. No modulation of CSP or MEP was observed during sham HD-tDCS sessions. Our findings suggest that CF of the left M1 combined with right M1 anodal or cathodal HD-tDCS further facilitated interhemispheric interactions during CF from the right M1 (contracting left arm) toward the left M1 (relaxed right arm), with effects on both excitatory and inhibitory processing. NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study shows modulation of the nonstimulated left M1 by right M1 HD-tDCS combined with crossed facilitation, which was probably achieved through modulation of interhemispheric interactions.

The Goldilocks contract: The synergistic benefits of combining structure and autonomy for persistence, creativity, and cooperation.

PubMed

Chou, Eileen Y; Halevy, Nir; Galinsky, Adam D; Murnighan, J Keith

2017-09-01

Contracts are commonly used to regulate a wide range of interactions and relationships. Yet relying on contracts as a mechanism of control often comes at a cost to motivation. Integrating theoretical perspectives from psychology, economics, and organizational theory, we explore this control-motivation dilemma inherent in contracts and present the Contract-Autonomy-Motivation-Performance-Structure (CAMPS) model, which highlights the synergistic benefits of combining structure and autonomy. The model proposes that subtle reductions in the specificity of a contract's language can boost autonomy, which increases intrinsic motivation and improves a range of desirable behaviors. Nine field and laboratory experiments found that less specific contracts increased task persistence, creativity, and cooperation, both immediately and longitudinally, because they boosted autonomy and intrinsic motivation. These positive effects, however, only occurred when contracts provided sufficient structure. Furthermore, the effects were limited to control-oriented clauses (i.e., legal clauses), and did not extend to coordination-oriented clauses (i.e., technical clauses). That is, there were synergistic benefits when a contract served as a scaffold that combined structure with general clauses. Overall, the current model and experiments identify a low-cost solution to the common problem of regulating social relationships: finding the right amount of contract specificity promotes desirable outcomes, including behaviors that are notoriously difficult to contract. The CAMPS model and the current set of empirical findings explain why, when, and how contracts can be used as an effective motivational tool. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved).

Vehicle performance tests of the Ford/GE first generation single-shaft (ETX-I) alternating current propulsion system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Crumley, R. L.; MacDowall, R. D.; Hardin, J. E.; Burke, A. F.

1989-04-01

This report is concerned with the test and evaluation of the ETX-I electric test vehicle, which is a Mercury LN7 retrofitted with the single-shaft ac electric powertrain developed by Ford and General Electric under contract to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) during the period 1982 to 1985. The lead-acid battery used in the ETX-I was developed by Lucas Chloride Electric Vehicle (EV) Systems (LCEVS) as part of the same DOE contract. Extensive tests of the powertrain and battery were done by General Electric and Lucas Chloride before they were integrated into the ETX-I test vehicle by Ford. Ford did limited testing of the ETX-I vehicle on a chassis dynamometer to determine the energy consumption of the powertrain for several driving schedules before the vehicle was shipped to INEL for complete dynamometer testing. Ford also performed track tests with the ETX-I to determine its acceleration performance characteristics.

Fatigue reduction during aggregated and distributed sequential stimulation.

PubMed

Bergquist, Austin J; Babbar, Vishvek; Ali, Saima; Popovic, Milos R; Masani, Kei

2017-08-01

Transcutaneous neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) can generate muscle contractions for rehabilitation and exercise. However, NMES-evoked contractions are limited by fatigue when they are delivered "conventionally" (CONV) using a single active electrode. Researchers have developed "sequential" (SEQ) stimulation, involving rotation of pulses between multiple "aggregated" (AGGR-SEQ) or "distributed" (DISTR-SEQ) active electrodes, to reduce fatigue (torque-decline) by reducing motor unit discharge rates. The primary objective was to compare fatigue-related outcomes, "potentiation," "variability," and "efficiency" between CONV, AGGR-SEQ, and DISTR-SEQ stimulation of knee extensors in healthy participants. Torque and current were recorded during testing with fatiguing trains using each NMES type under isometric and isokinetic (180°/s) conditions. Compared with CONV stimulation, SEQ techniques reduced fatigue-related outcomes, increased potentiation, did not affect variability, and reduced efficiency. SEQ techniques hold promise for reducing fatigue during NMES-based rehabilitation and exercise; however, optimization is required to improve efficiency. Muscle Nerve 56: 271-281, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

48 CFR 52.222-34 - Project Labor Agreement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

..., quality of work, safety, and health; and (6) Fully conform to all statutes, regulations, Executive orders... maintain in a current status throughout the life of the contract the project labor agreement entered into... Contractor shall maintain in a current status throughout the life of the contract the project labor agreement...

Inhibition of Adrenergic and Non-Adrenergic Smooth Muscle Contraction in the Human Prostate by the Phosphodiesterase 10-Selective Inhibitor TC-E 5005.

PubMed

Hennenberg, Martin; Schott, Melanie; Kan, Aysenur; Keller, Patrick; Tamalunas, Alexander; Ciotkowska, Anna; Rutz, Beata; Wang, Yiming; Strittmatter, Frank; Herlemann, Annika; Yu, Qingfeng; Stief, Christian G; Gratzke, Christian

2016-11-01

The phosphodiesterase (PDE) 5 inhibitor tadalafil is available for treatment of male lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), while the role of other PDE isoforms for prostate smooth muscle tone is still unknown. Here, we examined effects of the PDE10-selective inhibitor TC-E 5005 on smooth muscle contraction in human prostate tissue. Prostate samples were obtained from patients undergoing radical prostatectomy. Expression of PDE10 was addressed by RT-PCR, Western blot, and fluorescence staining with different markers. Effects of TC-E 5005 and tadalafil on contraction, and relaxation of prostate strips were studied via organ bath. PDE10A was detectable by RT-PCR, Western blot, and fluorescence staining in prostate tissues. Colocalization with markers suggested expression of PDE10A in smooth muscle cells and catecholaminergic nerves. Norepinephrine, the α1 -adrenergic agonist phenylephrine, the thromboxane A2 analogue U46619, and endothelins 1-3 induced concentration-dependent contractions of prostate strips, while electric field stimulation (EFS) induced frequence-dependent contractions. Application of TC-E 5005 (500 nM) caused significant inhibition of norepinephrine-, phenylephrine-, and endothelin-3-induced contractions. Inhibition of EFS-induced contractions by TC-E 5005 ranged around 50%, resembling inhibition of EFS-induced contractions by tadalafil (10 μM). The prostacyclin analog treprostinil and the nitric oxide donor DEA NONOate induced relaxations of precontracted prostate strips, which were significantly amplified by TCE 5005. The PDE10-selective inhibitor TC-E 5005 inhibits adrenergic and neurogenic smooth muscle contractions in the human prostate. TC-E 5005 inhibits neurogenic contractions with similar efficacy than tadalafil, so that urodynamic effects in vivo appear possible. Prostate 76:1364-1374, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

48 CFR 42.1502 - Policy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... single-agency task order and delivery order contracts, the contracting officer may require performance... ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Contractor Performance Information 42.1502 Policy. (a) Past performance... orders with a period of performance, including options, exceeding one year. These evaluations are...

29 CFR 1472.670 - Suspension.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Government procurement contracts and covered nonprocurement transactions for a temporary period, pending... prohibited is suspended, in accordance with the Federal Acquisition Regulation for procurement contracts (48 CFR part 9, subpart 9.4) and the common rule, Government-wide Debarment and Suspension (Nonprocurement...

24 CFR 21.670 - Suspension.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... Government procurement contracts and covered nonprocurement transactions for a temporary period, pending... prohibited is suspended, in accordance with the Federal Acquisition Regulation for procurement contracts (48 CFR part 9, subpart 9.4) and the common rule, Government-wide Debarment and Suspension (Nonprocurement...

Non-Adrenergic, Tamsulosin-Insensitive Smooth Muscle Contraction is Sufficient to Replace α1 -Adrenergic Tension in the Human Prostate.

PubMed

Hennenberg, Martin; Acevedo, Alice; Wiemer, Nicolas; Kan, Aysenur; Tamalunas, Alexander; Wang, Yiming; Yu, Qingfeng; Rutz, Beata; Ciotkowska, Anna; Herlemann, Annika; Strittmatter, Frank; Stief, Christian G; Gratzke, Christian

2017-05-01

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia may be caused by prostate smooth muscle contraction. Although α 1 -blockers may improve symptoms by prostate smooth muscle relaxation, their efficacy is limited. This may be explained by non-adrenergic mediators causing contraction in parallel to α 1 -adrenoceptors. However, little is known about the relevance and cooperative actions of non-adrenergic mediators in the prostate. Prostate tissues were obtained from radical prostatectomy (n = 127 patients). Contractile responses were studied in an organ bath. Endothelin-1 and noradrenaline induced contractions of similar magnitude (116 ± 23 and 117 ± 18% of KCl-induced contractions). Endothelin-2- and -3-induced maximum contractions of 63 ± 8.6 and 71 ± 19% of KCl, while contractions by the thromboxane analog U46619 amounted up to 63 ± 9.4%. Dopamine-induced contractions averaged to 22 ± 4.5% of KCl, while maximum contractions by serotonin, histamine, and carbachol stayed below 10% of KCl-induced. While noradrenaline-induced contractions were inhibited by tamsulosin (300 nM), endothelin-1-, -2-, or -3-induced contraction were not. No additive effects were observed if endothelins and noradrenaline were applied consecutively to the same samples. If endothelin-1 was applied after U46619, resulting tension (172 ± 43% of KCl) significantly exceeded noradrenaline-induced contraction. Tensions following combined application of endothelin-2 or -3 with U46619 stayed below noradrenaline-induced contractions. Tension following combined application of all three endothelins with U46619 resembled maximum noradrenaline-induced tone. Contractions following concomitant confrontation of human prostate tissue with noradrenaline and endothelin-1 are not additive. Endothelin-1 is sufficient to induce a smooth muscle tone resembling that of noradrenaline. This may replace lacking α 1 -adrenergic tone under therapy with α 1 -blockers, explaining the limited efficacy of α 1 -blockers in LUTS treatment. Contractions by thromboxane and endothelin-1 may be additive, and may exceed α 1 -adrenergic tone. Prostate 77:697-707, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Procurement contracting in the affected counties of the Northwest Forest Plan: 12 years of change.

Treesearch

Cassandra Moseley

2006-01-01

As part of the 10-year socioeconomic monitoring of the Northwest Forest Plan, this report evaluates changes in Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) procurement contracting between 1990 and 2002 by asking, (1) How much and what kind of work did the Forest Service and BLM contract during this period, and (2) who received economic benefits from this...

The Berry Amendment: Requiring Defense Procurement to Come from Domestic Sources

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-11-26

from American Sources; Exceptions) contains a number of domestic source restrictions that prohibit DOD from acquiring food, clothing (including military...American flags, footwear for enlisted service members, contracts for textiles and clothing , and periodic audits by the Inspector General on contracts...requirements relating to DOD’s contracting for textiles, clothing , and athletic footwear. Some policy makers believe that policies like the Berry Amendment

NASA Extends Chandra X-ray Observatory Contract with the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

2002-07-01

NASA NASA has extended its contract with the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory in Cambridge, Mass. to August 2003 to provide science and operational support for the Chandra X- ray Observatory, one of the world's most powerful tools to better understand the structure and evolution of the universe. The contract is an 11-month period of performance extension to the Chandra X-ray Center contract, with an estimated value of 50.75 million. Total contract value is now 298.2 million. The contract extension resulted from the delay of the launch of the Chandra X-ray Observatory from August 1998 to July 1999. The revised period of performance will continue the contract through Aug. 31, 2003, which is 48 months beyond operational checkout of the observatory. The contract type is cost reimbursement with no fee. The contract covers mission operations and data analysis, which includes both the observatory operations and the science data processing and general observer (astronomer) support. The observatory operations tasks include monitoring the health and status of the observatory and developing and distributing by satellite the observation sequences during Chandra's communication coverage periods. The science data processing tasks include the competitive selection, planning, and coordination of science observations with the general observers and the processing and delivery of the resulting scientific data. Each year, there are on the order of 200 to 250 observing proposals selected out of about 800 submitted, with a total amount of observing time about 20 million seconds. X-ray astronomy can only be performed from space because Earth's atmosphere blocks X-rays from reaching the surface. The Chandra Observatory travels one-third of the way to the Moon during its orbit around the Earth every 64 hours. At its highest point, Chandra's highly elliptical, or egg-shaped, orbit is 200 times higher than that of its visible-light- gathering sister, the Hubble Space Telescope. NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Ala., manages the Chandra Program for the Office of Space Science in Washington. The development contractor for the spacecraft was TRW, Inc., Redondo Beach, Calif. The Smithsonian's Chandra X-ray Center controls science and flight operations from Cambridge.

Development of a current collection loss management system for SDI homopolar power supplies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brown, D. W.

1991-04-01

High speed, high power density current collection systems have been identified as an enabling technology required to construct homopolar power supplies to meet SDI missions. This work is part of a three-year effort directed towards the analysis, experimental verification, and prototype construction of a current collection system designed to operate continuously at 2 kA/sq cm, at a rubbing speed of 200 m/s, and with acceptable losses in a space environment. To date, no system has achieved these conditions simultaneously. This is the final report covering the three year period of performance on DOE contract AC03-86SF-16518. Major areas covered include design, construction and operation of a cryogenically cooled brush test rig, design and construction of a high speed brush test rig, optimization study for homopolar machines, loss analysis of the current collection system, and an application study which defines the air-core homopolar construction necessary to achieve the goal of 80 kW/kg generator power density.

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.

Computational Modeling Reveals Key Contributions of KCNQ and hERG Currents to the Malleability of Uterine Action Potentials Underpinning Labor

PubMed Central

Tong, Wing-Chiu; Tribe, Rachel M.; Smith, Roger; Taggart, Michael J.

2014-01-01

The electrical excitability of uterine smooth muscle cells is a key determinant of the contraction of the organ during labor and is manifested by spontaneous, periodic action potentials (APs). Near the end of term, APs vary in shape and size reflecting an ability to change the frequency, duration and amplitude of uterine contractions. A recent mathematical model quantified several ionic features of the electrical excitability in uterine smooth muscle cells. It replicated many of the experimentally recorded uterine AP configurations but its limitations were evident when trying to simulate the long-duration bursting APs characteristic of labor. A computational parameter search suggested that delayed rectifying K+ currents could be a key model component requiring improvement to produce the longer-lasting bursting APs. Of the delayed rectifying K+ currents family it is of interest that KCNQ and hERG channels have been reported to be gestationally regulated in the uterus. These currents exhibit features similar to the broadly defined uterine I K1 of the original mathematical model. We thus formulated new quantitative descriptions for several I KCNQ and I hERG. Incorporation of these currents into the uterine cell model enabled simulations of the long-lasting bursting APs. Moreover, we used this modified model to simulate the effects of different contributions of I KCNQ and I hERG on AP form. Our findings suggest that the alterations in expression of hERG and KCNQ channels can potentially provide a mechanism for fine tuning of AP forms that lends a malleability for changing between plateau-like and long-lasting bursting-type APs as uterine cells prepare for parturition. PMID:25474527

40 CFR 36.670 - Suspension.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Federal Government procurement contracts and covered nonprocurement transactions for a temporary period... recipient so prohibited is suspended, in accordance with the Federal Acquisition Regulation for procurement contracts (48 CFR part 9, subpart 9.4) and the common rule, Government-wide Debarment and Suspension...

42 CFR 417.454 - Charges to Medicare enrollees.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... (CONTINUED) MEDICARE PROGRAM HEALTH MAINTENANCE ORGANIZATIONS, COMPETITIVE MEDICAL PLANS, AND HEALTH CARE PREPAYMENT PLANS Enrollment, Entitlement, and Disenrollment under Medicare Contract § 417.454 Charges to... of the contract period, all premiums, enrollment fees, and other charges collected from its Medicare...

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...

Demographic characteristics and clinical predictors of patients discharged from university hospital-affiliated pain clinic due to breach in narcotic use contract.

PubMed

Chakrabortty, Shushovan; Gupta, Deepak; Rustom, David; Berry, Hussein; Rai, Ajit

2014-01-01

The current retrospective study was completed with the aim to identify demographic characteristics and clinical predictors (if any) of the patients discharged from our pain clinic due to breach in narcotic use contract (BNUC). Retrospective patient charts' review and data audit. University hospital-affiliated pain clinic in the United States. All patient charts in our pain clinic for a 2-year period (2011-2012). The patients with BNUC were delineated from the patients who had not been discharged from our pain clinic. Pain characteristics, pain management, and substance abuse status were compared in each patient with BNUC between the time of admission and the time of discharge. The patients with BNUC discharges showed significant variability for the discharging factors among the pain physicians within a single pain clinic model with this variability being dependent on their years of experience and their proactive interventional pain management. The patients with BNUC in our pain clinic setting were primarily middle-aged, obese, unmarried males with nondocumented stable occupational history who were receiving only noninterventional pain management. Substance abuse, doctor shopping, and potential diversion were the top three documented reasons for BNUC discharges. In 2011-2012, our pain clinic discharged 1-in-16 patients due to breach in narcotic use contract.

Electrically induced contraction levels of the quadriceps femoris muscles in healthy men: the effects of three patterns of burst-modulated alternating current and volitional muscle fatigue.

PubMed

Parker, Michael G; Broughton, Alex J; Larsen, Ben R; Dinius, Josh W; Cimbura, Mac J; Davis, Matthew

2011-12-01

The purpose of this study was to compare electrically induced contraction levels produced by three patterns of alternating current in fatigued and nonfatigued skeletal muscles. Eighteen male volunteers without health conditions, with a mean (SD) age of 24.9 (3.4) yrs were randomly exposed to a fatiguing volitional isometric quadriceps contraction and one of three patterns of 2.5-KHz alternating current; two were modulated at 50 bursts per second (10% burst duty cycle with five cycles per burst and 90% burst duty cycle with 45 cycles per burst), and one pattern was modulated at 100 bursts per second (10% burst duty cycle with 2.5 cycles per burst). The electrically induced contraction levels produced by the three patterns of electrical stimulation were compared before and after the fatiguing contraction. The 10% burst duty cycles produced 42.9% (95% confidence interval, 29.1%-56.7%) and 32.1% (95% confidence interval, 18.2%-45.9%) more muscle force (P < 0.001) than did the 90% burst duty cycle pattern. There was no significant interaction effect (P = 0.392) of electrical stimulation patterns and fatigue on the electrically induced contraction levels. The lower burst duty cycle (10%) patterns of electrical stimulation produced stronger muscle contractions. Furthermore, the stimulation patterns had no influence on the difference in muscle force before and after the fatiguing quadriceps contraction. Consequently, for clinical applications in which high forces are desired, the patterns using the 10% burst duty cycle may be helpful.

Habitat history improves prediction of biodiversity in rainforest fauna

PubMed Central

Graham, Catherine H.; Moritz, Craig; Williams, Stephen E.

2006-01-01

Patterns of biological diversity should be interpreted in light of both contemporary and historical influences; however, to date, most attempts to explain diversity patterns have largely ignored history or have been unable to quantify the influence of historical processes. The historical effects on patterns of diversity have been hypothesized to be most important for taxonomic groups with poor dispersal abilities. We quantified the relative stability of rainforests over the late Quaternary period by modeling rainforest expansion and contraction in 21 biogeographic subregions in northeast Australia across four time periods. We demonstrate that historical habitat stability can be as important, and in endemic low-dispersal taxa even more important, than current habitat area in explaining spatial patterns of species richness. In contrast, patterns of endemic species richness for taxa with high dispersal capacity are best predicted by using current environmental parameters. We also show that contemporary patterns of species turnover across the region are best explained by historical patterns of habitat connectivity. These results clearly demonstrate that spatially explicit analyses of the historical processes of persistence and colonization are both effective and necessary for understanding observed patterns of biodiversity. PMID:16407139

Muscular control of a learned movement: the speed control system hypothesis.

PubMed

Enoka, R M

1983-01-01

The "speed control system" hypothesis, which represents an attempt to identify an invariant characteristic of learned movements, postulates that movements of variable extent are controlled by regulating the intensity of muscle contractions such that the contraction duration remains constant. The contingency set originally utilized to develop this hypothesis was expanded by examining a movement that was multidirectional and multiarticular, and executed by large muscle groups generating near maximum torques. The investigation focused on the techniques utilized by weightlifters to control lower extremity displacement during the initial phase of the double knee bend execution of the "clean" in Olympic weightlifting. The combination of the quantified muscle activity and the angular velocity, both about the knee joint, revealed a sequence of shortening-lengthening muscle contractions throughout the movement. The first two periods of net muscular activity, one extensor and the other flexor, were utilized to examine the movement for invariant characteristics. As predicted by the speed control system hypothesis, the duration of the first period of net muscle torque activity (extensor) did not vary significantly, for either group of subjects, over the relative loads examined. The duration of the second period of activity (resultant flexor muscle torque), however, was not constant across loads, and further, the direction of the change depended upon the level of expertise. The more capable lifters tended to increase the duration of the resultant flexor involvement while the less skilled athletes utilized the reverse strategy when the load was increased. Conversely, the intensity of the muscle activity for both groups of subjects and both the extensor and flexor periods covaried with load, as predicted by the hypothesis. The speed control system hypothesis, therefore, provided an appropriate explanation for the first component of the movement, the period of extensor dominated (shortening contraction) muscle torque, but was inappropriate for the subsequent interval, a resultant flexor (largely lengthening contraction) muscle torque.

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 52.209-7 - Information Regarding Responsibility Matters.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... connection with performance of a Federal contract or grant. It does not include agency actions such as... with total value greater than $10,000,000 means— (1) The total value of all current, active contracts and grants, including all priced options; and (2) The total value of all current, active orders...

48 CFR 52.209-7 - Information Regarding Responsibility Matters.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... connection with performance of a Federal contract or grant. It does not include agency actions such as... with total value greater than $10,000,000 means— (1) The total value of all current, active contracts and grants, including all priced options; and (2) The total value of all current, active orders...

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...

Post-"Psychological Contract" Violation: The Durability and Transferability of Employee Perceptions. The Case of TimTec.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pate, Judy; Malone, Charles

2000-01-01

Interviews with 20 employees 5 years after a factory closure explored pre- and postlayoff experiences and perceptions of current employers. The experience of the violation of the psychological contract affected perceptions of loyalty, commitment, and trust that were transferred to the current employer. (SK)

Impact of Cricothyroid Muscle Contraction on Vocal Fold Vibration: Experimental Study with High-Speed Videoendoscopy.

PubMed

Ishikawa, Camila Cristina; Pinheiro, Thais Gonçalves; Hachiya, Adriana; Montagnoli, Arlindo Neto; Tsuji, Domingos Hiroshi

2017-05-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of cricothyroid muscle contraction on vocal fold vibration, as evaluated with high-speed videoendoscopy, and to identify one or more aspects of vocal fold vibration that could be used as an irrefutable indicator of unilateral cricothyroid muscle paralysis. This was an experimental study employing excised human larynges. Twenty freshly excised human larynges were evaluated during artificially produced vibration. Each larynx was assessed in three situations: bilateral cricothyroid muscle contraction, unilateral cricothyroid muscle contraction, and no contraction of either cricothyroid muscle. The following parameters were evaluated by high-speed videoendoscopy: fundamental frequency, periodicity, amplitude of vocal fold vibration, and phase symmetry between the vocal folds. Although neither unilateral nor bilateral cricothyroid muscle contraction altered the periodicity of vibration or the occurrence of phase asymmetry, there was a significant decrease in fundamental frequency in parallel with decreasing longitudinal tension. We also found an increase in vibration amplitude of right and left vocal folds, which were similar in terms of their behavior for this parameter in the various situations studied. Our results suggest that differences in vibration amplitude and phase symmetry between vocal folds are not reliable indicators of unilateral cricothyroid muscle paralysis. Copyright © 2017 The Voice Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

An Investigation into the Nature of Non-Voiding Contractions Resulting from Detrusor Hyperreflexia in Neurogenic Bladders Following Spinal Cord Injury

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-06-01

occasioned by numerous, rhythmic high pressure non-voiding contractions (NVC) during normal bladder filling. These NVC are responsible for incontinence...month experiment period) 2c. Final data analysis (data analysis will be ongoing throughout, this will represent the finalization of data period, 0.25...Sub-Tasks 2a and 2b. As of 9/2/14, we have completed much of the data analysis (Sub-Task 2c; see below for results). Analysis of abdominal

Investigation of Ion Beam Production and Acceleration Using Linear Electron Beams and a Pulse Powered Plasma Focus.

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-03-01

POWERED PLASMA FOCUS Contract No. AFOSR-83-0145 PROGRESS REPORT For the Period April 1, 1983 through March 31, 1984 Submitted to Air Force Office of...AND ACCELERATION USING LINEAR ELECTRON BEAMS AND A PULSE POWERED PLASMA FOCUS Contract No. AFOSR-83-0145 PROGRESS REPORT For the Period April 1, 1983...Acceleration Using Linear Electron Beams and a Pulse Powered Plasma Focus " 01 €,G APRIL 1, 1983 THROUGH MRCH 31, 1984 A. Collective Acceleration and Related

7 CFR 631.11 - Conservation practice maintenance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... resource management systems or conservation practices applied under the contract for the duration of the... contract. (b) If the life span of the practices or resource management systems extends beyond the period of....11 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued) NATURAL RESOURCES...

48 CFR 1609.7101 - Policy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 6 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Policy. 1609.7101 Section 1609.7101 Federal Acquisition Regulations System OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT FEDERAL EMPLOYEES... Evaluation 1609.7101 Policy. At the end of each contract period, the contracting officer will determine each...

48 CFR 1609.7101 - Policy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 6 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Policy. 1609.7101 Section 1609.7101 Federal Acquisition Regulations System OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT FEDERAL EMPLOYEES... Evaluation 1609.7101 Policy. At the end of each contract period, the contracting officer will determine each...

48 CFR 1609.7101 - Policy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 6 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 true Policy. 1609.7101 Section 1609.7101 Federal Acquisition Regulations System OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT FEDERAL EMPLOYEES... Evaluation 1609.7101 Policy. At the end of each contract period, the contracting officer will determine each...

18 CFR 225.3 - Schedule of records and periods of retention.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

.... General Accounting Records 6. General and subsidiary ledgers. 7. Journals: General and subsidiary. 8... materials and supplies. Revenue Accounting and Collection 29. Customers' service applications and contracts... as for management, accounting, and financial services All contracts, related memoranda, and revisions...

17 CFR 3.42 - Termination.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... period specified in the rules of a contract market, registered derivatives transaction execution facility... markets which filed the certification described in § 3.40; (3) Immediately upon the withdrawal of the... award in an arbitration proceeding conducted pursuant to the rules of a designated contract market...

Painful periods (dysmenorrhea) (image)

MedlinePlus

Primary dysmenorrhea is a normal cramping of the lower abdomen caused by hormone-induced uterine contractions before the period. Secondary dysmenorrhea may be caused by abnormal conditions such as ...

Voltage-dependent Ca2+ release from the SR of feline ventricular myocytes is explained by Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release.

PubMed

Piacentino, V; Dipla, K; Gaughan, J P; Houser, S R

2000-03-15

1. Direct voltage-gated (voltage-dependent Ca2+ release, VDCR) and Ca2+ influx-gated (Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release, CICR) sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ release were studied in feline ventricular myocytes. The voltage-contraction relationship predicted by the VDCR hypothesis is sigmoidal with large contractions at potentials near the Ca2+ equilibrium potential (ECa). The relationship predicted by the CICR hypothesis is bell-shaped with no contraction at ECa. 2. The voltage dependence of contraction was measured in ventricular myocytes at physiological temperature (37 C), resting membrane potential and physiological [K+]. Experiments were performed with cyclic adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cAMP) in the pipette or in the presence of the beta-adrenergic agonist isoproterenol (isoprenaline; ISO). 3. The voltage-contraction relationship was bell-shaped in Na+-free solutions (to eliminate the Na+ current and Na+-Ca2+ exchange, NCX) but the relationship was broader than the L-type Ca2+ current (ICa,L)-voltage relationship. 4. Contractions induced with voltage steps from normal resting potentials to -40 mV are thought to represent VDCR rather than CICR. We found that cAMP and ISO shifted the voltage dependence of ICa,L activation to more negative potentials so that ICa,L was always present with steps to -40 mV. ICa,L at -40 mV inactivated when the holding potential was decreased (VŁ = -57.8 +/- 0.49 mV). 5. ISO increased inward current, SR Ca2+ load and contraction in physiological [Na+] and a broad bell-shaped voltage-contraction relationship was observed. Inhibition of reverse-mode NCX, decreasing ICa,L and decreasing SR Ca2+ loading all decreased contractions at strongly positive potentials near ECa. 6. The voltage-contraction relationship in 200 microM cadmium (Cd2+) was bell-shaped, supporting a role of ICa,L rather than VDCR. 7. All results could be accounted for by the CICR hypothesis, and many results exclude the VDCR hypothesis.

Dynamic contraction of the positive column of a self-sustained glow discharge in air flow

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

Shneider, M. N.; Mokrov, M. S.; Milikh, G. M.

We study the dynamic contraction of a self-sustained glow discharge in air in a rectangular duct with convective cooling. A two dimensional numerical model of the plasma contraction was developed in a cylindrical frame. The process is described by a set of time-dependent continuity equations for the electrons, positive and negative ions; gas and vibrational temperature; and equations which account for the convective heat and plasma losses by the transverse flux. Transition from the uniform to contracted state was analyzed. It was shown that such transition experiences a hysteresis, and that the critical current of the transition increases when themore » gas density drops. Possible coexistence of the contracted and uniform state of the plasma in the discharge, where the current flows along the density gradient of the background gas, is discussed.« less

Insurance Contract Analysis for Company Decision Support in Acquisition Management

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chernovita, H. P.; Manongga, D.; Iriani, A.

2017-01-01

One of company activities to retain their business is marketing the products which include in acquisition management to get new customers. Insurance contract analysis using ID3 to produce decision tree and rules to be decision support for the insurance company. The decision tree shows 13 rules that lead to contract termination claim. This could be a guide for the insurance company in acquisition management to prevent contract binding with these contract condition because it has a big chance for the customer to terminate their insurance contract before its expired date. As the result, there are several strong points that could be the determinant of contract termination such as: 1) customer age whether too young or too old, 2) long insurance period (above 10 years), 3) big insurance amount, 4) big amount of premium charges, and 5) payment method.

Intrinsic rhythm and basic tonus in insect skeletal muscle.

PubMed

Hoyle, G

1978-04-01

The jumping muscle of orthopterous insects contains fibres that possess an intrinsic rhythm (IR) of slow contraction. The contributing fibres are generally synchronized, but as many as three or four pacemakers are present. The frequency, amplitude and duration of IR contractions fluctuate erratically over a 24 h period. Metathoracic DUM neurone bursts suppress IR for a few minutes. Other, unidentified dorsal neurones enhance its amplitude. In addition to IR, the extensor tibiae shows intrinsic basic tonus (BT). BT is relaxed for several s by low-frequency burst output from unidentified metathoracic dorsal neurones. DUM neurone bursts may enhance extensor BT, relax it, or leave it unaffected. The effects on IR of various regimes of activity in the slow extensor tibiae (SETi) and the common inhibitor (CI) axons were examined. CI affects IR when stimulated at frequencies above 2 Hz. It causes amplitude depression and reduced duration of individual IR contractions as well as increased frequency. At 30 Hz and above, CI completely suppresses IR. An enhanced IR contraction starts within a few milliseconds of the termination of a CI train. At low frequencies (below 10 Hz) SETi causes increased frequency and decreased amplitude of IR, with a depressed IR contraction following cessation of the SETi burst. At frequencies above 15 Hz the SETi-evoked contraction dominates tension development, though IR summates with it during the rising phase. In quiescent preparations not showing IR, SETi stimulation at 10 Hz often started up IR. Single SETi or FETi impulses can initiate an IR contraction, and cause altered phasing, with up to a quintupling of frequency. After a critical period has elapsed following the onset of an IR contraction, a single single impulse in any one of the three axons will terminate it abruptly. The early termination is followed by a reduced interval which is proportional to the reduced IR contraction time. The rhythm of accumulated readiness to go into an IR contraction is independent of the pacemaker rhythm that initiates the contraction.

Effect of a hawthorn extract on contraction and energy turnover of isolated rat cardiomyocytes.

PubMed

Pöpping, S; Rose, H; Ionescu, I; Fischer, Y; Kammermeier, H

1995-11-01

The hawthorn extract LI 132 (crataegus), prepared from leaves and flowers, and standardised to 2.2% flavonoids, was investigated with respect to its effect on (1) the contraction, (2) the energy-turnover and (3) the apparent refractory period (t(ref)) of isolated cardiac myocytes from adult rats. (1) The contractile behaviour of attached myocytes was analyzed by an image processing system. (2) The energy turnover was calculated from the decrease in oxygen content in the myocyte suspension, brought about by cellular respiration. It was differentiated between energy turnover related to cell shortening and that required for ionic transport processes by application of the contraction-inhibiting agent 2,3-butanedione monoxime. (3) The apparent refractory period (t(ref)) was evaluated by pacing the myocytes with increasing stimulation rates and determining the frequency at which failure of single contractions occurred. For these purposes, the myocytes were incubated in a stimulation chamber, which is part of a computer-assisted system allowing to simultaneously evaluate the mechanics and energetics of electrically induced contraction. Within a range of 30-180 microg/ml, the hawthorn extract exhibited a positive inotropic effect on the contraction amplitude accompanied by a moderate increase of energy turnover both for mechanical and ionic processes. In comparison with other positive inotropic interventions, such as application of the beta-adrenergic agonist isoprenaline, or of the cardiac glycoside ouabain (g-strophantin), or elevation of the extracellular Ca++-concentration, the effects of the hawthorn extract were significantly more economical with respect to the energetics of the myocytes. Furthermore the extract prolonged the apparent refractory period in the presence and the absence of isoprenaline, which be indicative for an antiarrhythmic potential.

Contract Education: A Background Paper.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

California Community Colleges, Sacramento. Academic Senate.

Today contract education is generally thought of as a program or course for which an employer is paying the full cost of instruction for customized training. Contract education can help faculty remain current, encourage industry to make equipment available to the college that might otherwise be too expensive, and provide employment opportunities…

Raising the Curtain: Exploring Dancers’ Perceptions of Obligation through the Psychological Contract Lens

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stanway, Alicia R.; Bordia, Sarbari; Fein, Erich C.

2013-01-01

The current study takes an exploratory approach to investigate which situational factors influence perceptions of psychological contracts, as well as the content that comprises psychological contracts in the dance training industry. Semi-structured interviews ("n"?=?10) were conducted with students enrolled in a higher education…

24 CFR 203.264 - Payment of periodic MIP.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... URBAN DEVELOPMENT MORTGAGE AND LOAN INSURANCE PROGRAMS UNDER NATIONAL HOUSING ACT AND OTHER AUTHORITIES SINGLE FAMILY MORTGAGE INSURANCE Contract Rights and Obligations Mortgage Insurance Premiums-Periodic...

The implementation of a learning contract and the effects on the learning experiences of seventh-grade life science students

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harmon, Sally Baden

2001-07-01

The purposes of this case study were to describe how a learning contract was implemented for a seventh-grade life science class and to discover its effects on the learning experiences of the students. A learning contract was a written agreement between the student and the teacher in which the student agreed to complete a variety of assignments for a particular grade. Learning contracts were issued to the students for three grading periods of six weeks. A total of 137 students participated in the case study, which began in September 1997 and culminated at the end of the third grading period in January 1998. The data were collected from three groups: (a) 137 seventh-grade life science students, (b) 48 parents, and (c) the classroom teacher-researcher. In order to guide the collection and analysis of data, twenty-four questions were developed. These questions were then compiled into two surveys. Responses from the student survey indicated that students: (a) signed up for an A more than any other grade, (b) liked working in teams, (c) found it easy to find assignments, (d) set goals to earn high grades, and (e) felt good about their science grades. For the first grading period, eighty-nine percent of parents surveyed responded that they were aware of their children's learning contract grade, and sixty-two percent of the parents surveyed responded that they were satisfied with their children's academic performance using the learning contract. Taped interviews were conducted with former seventh-grade students and the teacher-researcher. In the taped interviews, students told of their positive learning experiences. The teacher-researcher kept a daily journal and used its contents as data. As a result of this case study, the students and the teacher-researcher supported the continued use of the learning contract for the next school year.

Installation of a stoker-coal preparation plant in Krakow, Poland. Technical progress report 6, July - September 1995

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

Rozelle, P.

1995-09-01

This report describes the progress made during this reporting period of a project to demonstrate that the air pollution from a traveling- grate stoker being used to heat water at one of MPEC`s central heating plants in Krakow, Poland can be reduced significantly by (1) substituting the unwashed, unsized coal currently being used with a mechanically cleaned, double-sized stoker fuel and by (2) optimizing the operating parameters of the stoker. It is anticipated that these improvements will prove to be cost-effective and hence will be adopted by the other central heating plants in Krakow and, ideally, throughout Eastern European citiesmore » where coal continues to be the primary source of fuel. EFH Coal Company has formed a partnership with two Polish institutions -- MPEC, a central heating company in Krakow, and Naftokrak-Naftobudowa, preparation plant designers and fabricators -- for the execution of this effort. The terms of a long- term contract for the procurement of 750,000 tons of 20 mm x 0 raw coal for the new plant have been negotiated with the Katowice Holding Company. This draft contract currently is still under legal review. The negotiated price is near that of the Polish government`s established price of $32/ton. Biprostal, an engineering firm located in Krakow, continued performing the many environmental and permitting activities that are required by the various levels of the Polish government before the plant can be constructed and operated. The search for markets for utilizing surplus production from the new plant continues. Because of the unanticipated delays encountered during the onset of the project with forming the EFH Coal/Polish partnership and in negotiating long-term raw coal supply contracts, a third 90-day, no-cost time extension was requested.« less

48 CFR 16.203-2 - Application.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... contract with economic price adjustment may be used when (i) there is serious doubt concerning the stability of market or labor conditions that will exist during an extended period of contract performance... limited to contingencies beyond the contractor's control. For use of economic price adjustment in sealed...

42 CFR 417.150 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... under group insurance policies or contracts, medical or hospital service agreements, enrollment or subscription contracts, or similar group arrangements, in consideration of premiums or other periodic charges... authorized to act on behalf of an employing entity or a group of employing entities to offer the option of...

10 CFR 600.3 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

..., into which a project is divided for budgeting and funding purposes. Continuation award means an award... project period or renewal thereof. Contract means a written procurement contract executed by a recipient... sharing or matching means that portion of project or programs costs not borne by the Federal Government...

42 CFR 417.456 - Refunds to Medicare enrollees.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... (CONTINUED) MEDICARE PROGRAM HEALTH MAINTENANCE ORGANIZATIONS, COMPETITIVE MEDICAL PLANS, AND HEALTH CARE PREPAYMENT PLANS Enrollment, Entitlement, and Disenrollment under Medicare Contract § 417.456 Refunds to... accordance with paragraphs (b) through (d) of this section by the end of the contract period following the...

42 CFR 417.401 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... PROGRAM HEALTH MAINTENANCE ORGANIZATIONS, COMPETITIVE MEDICAL PLANS, AND HEALTH CARE PREPAYMENT PLANS Qualifying Conditions for Medicare Contracts § 417.401 Definitions. As used in this subpart and subparts K...) means an actuarial estimate made by CMS in advance of an HMO's or CMP's contract period that represents...

Lack of symmetry in employees' perceptions of the psychological contract.

PubMed

Jepsen, Denise M; Rodwell, John J

2012-06-01

Despite debate on the nature of employees' perceptions of their psychological contract, little research has compared employees' and employers' sides of the psychological contract. All 80 items from both scales in the Psychological Contract Inventory were used in a survey of 436 currently working, non-student respondents. Structural equation modeling yielded nonsymmetrical perspectives on promises and obligations, highlighting the validity of approaching the issues via individual perceptions.

Analysis of Army Contracting Officer Representative Role in Contingency Operations

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-12-01

oversight. There may be a shortage of experienced and 12 well-qualified CORs” (Thibault et al., 2011, p. 85). The report also made recommendations to...percent over the same period (Gansler et al., 2007). The shortage of contracting procurement personnel, including CORs, is detrimental to the...According to the Interim Report to Congress in June 2009, There is a critical shortage of qualified contract management personnel in theater and those

24 CFR 203.262 - Due date of periodic MIP.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... URBAN DEVELOPMENT MORTGAGE AND LOAN INSURANCE PROGRAMS UNDER NATIONAL HOUSING ACT AND OTHER AUTHORITIES SINGLE FAMILY MORTGAGE INSURANCE Contract Rights and Obligations Mortgage Insurance Premiums-Periodic...

24 CFR 203.262 - Due date of periodic MIP.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... URBAN DEVELOPMENT MORTGAGE AND LOAN INSURANCE PROGRAMS UNDER NATIONAL HOUSING ACT AND OTHER AUTHORITIES SINGLE FAMILY MORTGAGE INSURANCE Contract Rights and Obligations Mortgage Insurance Premiums-Periodic...

Medicare program; contracts with health maintenance organizations (HMOs) and competitive medical plans (CMPs)--HCFA. Final rule with comment period.

PubMed

1995-09-01

This rule clarifies and updates portions of the HCFA regulations that pertain to the following: The conditions that an HMO or CMP must meet to qualify for a Medicare contract (Subpart J). The contract requirements (Subpart L). The rules for enrollment, entitlement, and disenrollment of Medicare beneficiaries in a contracting HMO or CMP (Subpart K). How a Medicare contract is affected when there is change of ownership or leasing of facilities of a contracting HMO or CMP (Subpart M). These are technical and editorial changes that do not affect the substance of the regulations. They are intended to make it easier to find particular provisions, to provide overviews of the different program aspects, and to better ensure uniform understanding of the rules.

Medicare program; revisions to the Medicare Advantage and Part D prescription drug contract determinations, appeals, and intermediate sanctions processes. Final rule with comment period.

PubMed

2007-12-05

This rule with comment period finalizes the Medicare program provisions relating to contract determinations involving Medicare Advantage (MA) organizations and Medicare Part D prescription drug plan sponsors, including eliminating the reconsideration process for review of contract determinations, revising the provisions related to appeals of contract determinations, and clarifying the process for MA organizations and Part D plan sponsors to complete corrective action plans. In this final rule with comment period, we also clarify the intermediate sanction and civil money penalty (CMP) provisions that apply to MA organizations and Medicare Part D prescription drug plan sponsors, modify elements of their compliance plans, retain voluntary self-reporting for Part D sponsors and implement a voluntary self-reporting recommendation for MA organizations, and revise provisions to ensure HHS has access to the books and records of MA organizations and Part D plan sponsors' first tier, downstream, and related entities. Although we have decided not to finalize the mandatory self-reporting provisions that we proposed, CMS remains committed to adopting a mandatory self-reporting requirement. To that end, we are requesting comments that will assist CMS in crafting a future proposed regulation for a mandatory self-reporting requirement.

Prediction-Market-Based Quantification of Climate Change Consensus and Uncertainty

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boslough, M.

2012-12-01

Intrade is an online trading exchange that includes climate prediction markets. One such family of contracts can be described as "Global temperature anomaly for 2012 to be greater than x °C or more," where the figure x ranges in increments of .05 from .30 to 1.10 (relative to the 1951-1980 base period), based on data published by NASA GISS. Each market will settle at 10.00 if the published global temperature anomaly for 2012 is equal to or greater than x, and will otherwise settle at 0.00. Similar contracts will be available for 2013. Global warming hypotheses can be cast as probabilistic predictions for future temperatures. The first modern such climate prediction is that of Broecker (1975), whose temperatures are easily separable from his CO2 growth scenario—which he overestimated—by interpolating his table of temperature as a function of CO2 concentration and projecting the current trend into the near future. For the current concentration of 395 ppm, Broecker's equilibrium temperature anomaly prediction relative to pre-industrial is 1.05 °C, or about 0.75 °C relative to the GISS base period. His neglect of lag in response to the changes in radiative forcing was partially compensated by his low sensitivity of 2.4 °C, leading to a slight overestimate. Simple linear extrapolation of the current trend since 1975 yields an estimate of .65 ± .09 °C (net warming of .95 °C) for anthropogenic global warming with a normal distribution of random natural variability. To evaluate an extreme case, we can estimate the prediction Broecker would have made if he had used the Lindzen & Choi (2009) climate sensitivity of 0.5 °C. The net post-industrial warming by 2012 would have been 0.21 °C, for an expected change of -0.09 from the GISS base period. This is the temperature to which the Earth would be expected to revert if the observed warming since the 19th century was merely due to random natural variability that coincidentally mimicked Broecker's anthropogenic change prediction for the past 36 years. Assertions made outside the scientific literature can also be cast into predictions for 2012 temperatures, for example Carter's (2006) argument for a lack of warming since 1998 can be extrapolated to a 2012 value of 0.56 °C (net warming of .86 °C), and Easterbrook's (2010) claim of global cooling can be extrapolated to a 2012 value of .42 °C (net warming of .72 °C). All contracts in the current market ensembles are consistent with net warming from pre-industrial temperatures. They are also capable of distinguishing the level of acceptance of the various global warming hypotheses, even by their respective proponents. Moreover, they can be used as a market-based consensus estimate of future warming and climate variability that is weighted according to level of risk taken on by those providing the estimates, while filtering out the opinions of individuals unwilling to accept any financial risk associated with being wrong.

48 CFR 1515.408 - Solicitation provisions and contract clauses.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... month period(s) of performance and performance is on a Government facility; Alternate II for... dedicated staff for a twelve month period(s) of performance and performance is not on a Government facility... needed to fit an individual acquisition, and (2) 1552.215-73, General Financial and Organizational...

48 CFR 1515.408 - Solicitation provisions and contract clauses.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... month period(s) of performance and performance is on a Government facility; Alternate II for... dedicated staff for a twelve month period(s) of performance and performance is not on a Government facility... needed to fit an individual acquisition, and (2) 1552.215-73, General Financial and Organizational...

The National Network of Libraries of Medicine's outreach to the public health workforce: 2001–2006

PubMed Central

Cogdill, Keith W.; Ruffin, Angela B.; Stavri, P. Zoë

2007-01-01

Objective: The paper provides an overview of the National Network of Libraries of Medicine's (NN/ LM's) outreach to the public health workforce from 2001 to 2006. Description: NN/LM conducts outreach through the activities of the Regional Medical Library (RML) staff and RML-sponsored projects led by NN/LM members. Between 2001 and 2006, RML staff provided training on information resources and information management for public health personnel at national, state, and local levels. The RMLs also contributed significantly to the Partners in Information Access for the Public Health Workforce collaboration. Methods: Data were extracted from telephone interviews with directors of thirty-seven NN/LM-sponsored outreach projects directed at the public health sector. A review of project reports informed the interviews, which were transcribed and subsequently coded for emergent themes using qualitative analysis software. Results: Analysis of interview data led to the identification of four major themes: training, collaboration, evaluation of outcomes, and challenges. Sixteen subthemes represented specific lessons learned from NN/LM members' outreach to the public health sector. Conclusions: NN/LM conducted extensive information-oriented outreach to the public health workforce during the 2001-to-2006 contract period. Lessons learned from this experience, most notably the value of collaboration and the need for flexibility, continue to influence outreach efforts in the current contract period. PMID:17641766

A theoretical search for supervelocity semiconductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Littlejohn, M. A.; Kim, K. W.

1991-10-01

This document presents an annual report to the Office of Naval Research for a research program entitled 'A Theoretical Search for Supervelocity Semiconductors.' This program has been funded by ONR since 1974 in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at N.C. State University. The research has resulted in more than 75 refereed publications and numerous conference presentations from its inception. Major contributions to the field of hot electron transport and semiconductor device modeling have been achieved, new computational methods have been developed (e.g., path integral Monte Carlo techniques), and the work has helped stimulate commercial ventures in the applications of quaternary semiconductor materials to electronic and optical devices. In addition, there have been twenty-six Ph.D. and M.S. students who have received degrees at N.C. State University with research support from this contract. Three visiting faculty members from Japan came to the university to work with the faculty investigators supported under this ONR contract during the 1979-1983 time period. A visiting professor from the French CNRS Microstructures and Microelectronics Laboratory in Bagneux (near Paris) spent a sabbatical year at N.C. State during 1988-89, and he devoted full-time working on this program at no cost to ONR. During the current funding period, a visiting scholar from China is a member of our research group working on projects which directly impact this ONR program.

48 CFR 2452.242-71 - Contract management system.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

..., concise summary of technical progress made and the costs incurred for each task during the reporting... technical progress made for each task during the reporting period; and (B) Identifies problems, or potential... and progress reporting as described herein. (b) The contract management system shall consist of two...

48 CFR 2052.215-70 - Key personnel.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... are considered to be essential to the successful performance of the work hereunder: * The contractor agrees that personnel may not be removed from the contract work or replaced without compliance with..., or is expected to become, unavailable for work under this contract for a continuous period exceeding...

48 CFR 35.017-1 - Sponsoring agreements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Sponsoring agreements. 35... CATEGORIES OF CONTRACTING RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CONTRACTING 35.017-1 Sponsoring agreements. (a) In order... mission, and ensure a periodic reevaluation of the FFRDC, a written agreement of sponsorship between the...

48 CFR 35.017-1 - Sponsoring agreements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Sponsoring agreements. 35... CATEGORIES OF CONTRACTING RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CONTRACTING 35.017-1 Sponsoring agreements. (a) In order... mission, and ensure a periodic reevaluation of the FFRDC, a written agreement of sponsorship between the...

48 CFR 35.017-1 - Sponsoring agreements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Sponsoring agreements. 35... CATEGORIES OF CONTRACTING RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CONTRACTING 35.017-1 Sponsoring agreements. (a) In order... mission, and ensure a periodic reevaluation of the FFRDC, a written agreement of sponsorship between the...

Labour market trajectories and early retirement due to permanent disability: a study based on 14 972 new cases in Spain.

PubMed

Benavides, Fernando G; Duran, Xavier; Gimeno, David; Vanroelen, Christophe; Martínez, José Miguel

2015-08-01

To analyse the impact of labour market trajectory indicators on early retirement, measured by age at onset of permanent disability (PD). Four labour market trajectory indicators were reconstructed in 14 972 new cases of PD recognized between 2004 and 2010: (1) number of employment contracts, (2) number of unemployment periods, (3) number of periods without social security affiliation and (4) percentage of time spent in inactivity. The outcome was measured as the age at onset of PD. Median differences and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) were compared using a median regression. Analyses were stratified by sex and adjusted for occupational category and total time elapsed between the beginning of working life and the age at onset of PD: separately for each labour market indicator, and adjusted for each other. In men, the age at the onset of PD for workers with 15 or more employment contracts decreased by 4.8 years; and for workers with five or more periods without affiliation it decreased by 4.6 years. In women, the corresponding decreases were 5.8 years for 15 or more contracts and 7.2 years for five or more unaffiliated periods. The results for four indicators slightly changed when they were mutually adjusted. Poor employment conditions, such as having a high number of periods without affiliation, a high number of contracts (in men) and a higher percentage of inactive time (in women) are associated with early retirement due to PD. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Public Health Association. All rights reserved.

Educational contracts in family medicine residency training.

PubMed Central

Mahood, S.; Rojas, R.; Andres, D.; Zagozeski, C.; White, G.; Bradel, T.

1994-01-01

An educational contract for family medicine residency training and evaluation addresses many of the difficulties and challenges of current postgraduate medical education. This article identifies important principles for developing a contractual approach; describes the contract used in one program and its implementation; and discusses its theory, advantages, and limitations. Images p550-a PMID:8199512

Contributions of Central Command and Muscle Feedback to Sympathetic Nerve Activity in Contracting Human Skeletal Muscle.

PubMed

Boulton, Daniel; Taylor, Chloe E; Macefield, Vaughan G; Green, Simon

2016-01-01

During voluntary contractions, muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) to contracting muscles increases in proportion to force but the underlying mechanisms are not clear. To shed light on these mechanisms, particularly the influences of central command and muscle afferent feedback, the present study tested the hypothesis that MSNA is greater during voluntary compared with electrically-evoked contractions. Seven male subjects performed a series of 1-min isometric dorsiflexion contractions (left leg) separated by 2-min rest periods, alternating between voluntary and electrically-evoked contractions at similar forces (5-10% of maximum). MSNA was recorded continuously (microneurography) from the left peroneal nerve and quantified from cardiac-synchronized, negative-going spikes in the neurogram. Compared with pre-contraction values, MSNA increased by 51 ± 34% (P < 0.01) during voluntary contractions but did not change significantly during electrically-evoked contractions (-8 ± 12%, P > 0.05). MSNA analyzed at 15-s intervals revealed that this effect of voluntary contraction appeared 15-30 s after contraction onset (P < 0.01), remained elevated until the end of contraction, and disappeared within 15 s after contraction. These findings suggest that central command, and not feedback from contracting muscle, is the primary mechanism responsible for the increase in MSNA to contracting muscle. The time-course of MSNA suggests that there is a longer delay in the onset of this effect compared with its cessation after contraction.

Memories of early work on muscle contraction and regulation in the 1950's and 1960's

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

Huxley, Hugh E.

2008-04-25

Professor Ebashi's epic work on the biochemistry of the regulation of muscle contraction began in the early 1950's, during the same period that work on the molecular basis of force production in muscle was also beginning. The latter work started in two MRC Research Units in the UK, and was continued jointly by the two workers from those Units who had, independently, gone to MIT to learn the new techniques of electron microscopy and to apply them to muscle. In a somewhat similar fashion, Professor Ebashi also spent one or two years in the USA, continuing his work on themore » role of calcium in muscle regulation in Lippman's laboratory, before returning to Japan to achieve the great breakthroughs in this work during the 1960's. Hanson and Huxley, after putting forward the overlapping actin and myosin filament arrays model for the striated muscle sarcomere, and subsequently the sliding filament model of muscle contraction (simultaneously with A.F Huxley and R. Niedergerke), returned to the UK to pursue detailed structural studies in separate Research Units, in a mixture of consultation, collaboration, and competition, during the later 1950's and throughout the 1960's. However, the path to enlightenment described here in some detail was somewhat more tortuous than the standard literature perhaps reveals. Nevertheless, by the time of the Cold Spring Harbor Symposium on Muscle Contraction in 1972, the two lines of enquiry on regulation itself, and on the tilting cross-bridge model of force production, had arrived at a good deal of common ground, and indeed the identification of troponin and its periodic distribution along the actin filaments had helped resolve a long-standing puzzle in the interpretation of the low angle X-ray diagram. Since then, an enormous amount of remarkable new work has been necessary to establish troponin regulation and the tilting cross-bridge mechanism in molecular detail, but the work in the 1950's and 1960's has provided a firm and accurate basis for our current understanding.« less

Human handedness and asymmetry of the motor cortical silent period.

PubMed

Priori, A; Oliviero, A; Donati, E; Callea, L; Bertolasi, L; Rothwell, J C

1999-10-01

We performed transcranial magnetic stimulation of the motor cortex in 22 left-handed and 25 right-handed subjects during active contraction of a small hand muscle. Motor evoked potentials had the same latency, amplitude and threshold on both sides of the body, whilst the silent period duration was shorter in the dominant hand. Silent periods elicited by nerve and brainstem stimulation were the same in both hands. Since the latter part of the cortical silent period is due mainly to withdrawal of corticospinal input to spinal motoneurones, we speculate that the results are compatible with the suggestion that tonic contractions of the non-dominant hand are associated with a greater involvement of the corticospinal tract than those of the dominant hand. It also seems likely that there is an asymmetry in the excitability of cortical inhibitory mechanisms with those responsible for the cortical silent period being less excitable in the dominant motor cortex.

Survey of the Effects of Exposure to 900 MHz Radiofrequency Radiation Emitted by a GSM Mobile Phone on the Pattern of Muscle Contractions in an Animal Model.

PubMed

Mortazavi, S M J; Rahimi, S; Talebi, A; Soleimani, A; Rafati, A

2015-09-01

The rapid development of wireless telecommunication technologies over the past decades, has led to significant changes in the exposure of the general public to electromagnetic fields. Nowadays, people are continuously exposed to different sources of electromagnetic fields such as mobile phones, mobile base stations, cordless phones, Wi-Fi routers, and power lines. Therefore, the last decade witnessed a rapidly growing concern about the possible health effects of exposure to electromagnetic fields emitted by these sources. In this study that was aimed at investigating the effects of exposure to radiofrequency (RF) radiation emitted by a GSM mobile phone on the pattern of contraction in frog's isolated gastrocnemius muscle after stimulation with single square pulses of 1V (1 Hz), pulse height of contractions, the time interval between two subsequent contractions and the latency period were measured. Our findings showed that the pulse height of contractions muscle could be affected by the exposure to electromagnetic fields. Especially, the latency period was effectively altered in RF-exposed samples. However, none of the experiments could show an alteration in the time interval between two subsequent contractions after exposure to electromagnetic fields. These findings support early reports which indicated a wide variety of non-thermal effects of electromagnetic radiation on amphibians including the effects on the pattern of muscle extractions.

48 CFR 17.207 - Exercise of options.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... period specified in the contract. (b) When the contract provides for economic price adjustment and the... consideration such factors as market stability and comparison of the time since award with the usual duration of... that is subject to an economic price adjustment provision; or (5) A specific price that is subject to...

78 FR 4093 - Extension of Comment Period for the Rulemaking Enhancing Protections Afforded Customers and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-01-18

... Futures Commission Merchants and Derivatives Clearing Organizations AGENCY: Commodity Futures Trading... Customers and Customer Funds Held by Futures Commission Merchants and Derivatives Clearing Organizations, 77... options on futures contracts traded on designated contract markets. Section 4d(a)(2) further requires an...

Research to Support Intelligent Data Management

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lerner, B. T.

1998-01-01

This final report details the contract performance and analysis of research and development results obtained during the contract period. KT-Tech's research and development work results in the areas of registration of remotely sensed data and the test evaluation and porting of the Regional Validation Center software system are presented.

Electron-phonon interaction, transport and ultrafast processes in semiconductor microstructures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sarma, Sankar D.

1992-08-01

We have fulfilled our contract obligations completely by doing theoretical research on electron-phonon interaction and transport properties in submicron semiconductor structures with the emphasis on ultrafast processes and many-body effects. Fifty-five papers have been published based on our research during the contract period.

Program Elimination, Financial Emergency, and Student Rights.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Olswang, Steven Glenn; And Others

1982-01-01

The rights of students to complete programs into which they have matriculated and the obligations of colleges and universities to maintain these programs for sufficient periods of time to fulfill any existing contracts with students are discussed. Contract principles are applied in protecting a student's right to complete degree programs. (MLW)

48 CFR 9903.202-1 - General requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... any small business concern. (b) Completed Disclosure Statements are required in the following circumstances: (1) Any business unit that is selected to receive a CAS-covered contract or subcontract of $50... the first CAS-covered contract is received within 90 days of the start of the cost accounting period...

48 CFR 752.242-70 - Periodic progress reports.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... interpreted as “task order” or “delivery order” when this clause is used in an indefinite-delivery contract... may be used by USAID personnel or their authorized representatives when evaluating the contractor's... contracting officer may withhold from payment an amount not to exceed US$25,000 (or local currency equivalent...

Research to Support Intelligent Data Management

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lerner, Bao-Ting

1998-01-01

This final report details the contract performance and analysis of research and development results obtained during the contract period. KT-TECH's research and development work results in the areas of registration of remotely sensed data and the test evaluation and porting of the Regional Validation Center software system, are presented.

42 CFR 417.458 - Recoupment of uncollected deductible and coinsurance amounts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

..., DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICARE PROGRAM HEALTH MAINTENANCE ORGANIZATIONS... Medicare Contract § 417.458 Recoupment of uncollected deductible and coinsurance amounts. An HMO or CMP... previous contract period except in the following circumstances: (a) The HMO or CMP failed to collect the...

42 CFR 417.422 - Eligibility to enroll in an HMO or CMP.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICARE PROGRAM HEALTH MAINTENANCE ORGANIZATIONS, COMPETITIVE MEDICAL PLANS, AND HEALTH CARE PREPAYMENT PLANS Enrollment, Entitlement, and Disenrollment under Medicare Contract § 417.422... entered into a contract under subpart L of this part; (d) During an enrollment period of the HMO or CMP...

48 CFR 9903.201-2 - Types of CAS coverage.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... later award of a CAS-covered contract. Full coverage applies to contractor business units that— (1) Receive a single CAS-covered contract award of $50 million or more; or (2) Received $50 million or more in net CAS-covered awards during its preceding cost accounting period. (b) Modified coverage. (1...

48 CFR 9903.201-2 - Types of CAS coverage.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... later award of a CAS-covered contract. Full coverage applies to contractor business units that— (1) Receive a single CAS-covered contract award of $50 million or more; or (2) Received $50 million or more in net CAS-covered awards during its preceding cost accounting period. (b) Modified coverage. (1...

48 CFR 416.603-2 - Application.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Application. 416.603-2 Section 416.603-2 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE CONTRACTING METHODS AND... Application. The HCA is authorized to extend the period for defining a letter contract required by FAR 16.603...

Enhanced Corticospinal Excitability and Volitional Drive in Response to Shortening and Lengthening Strength Training and Changes Following Detraining

PubMed Central

Tallent, Jamie; Goodall, Stuart; Gibbon, Karl C.; Hortobágyi, Tibor; Howatson, Glyn

2017-01-01

There is a limited understanding of the neurological adaptations responsible for changes in strength following shortening and lengthening resistance training and subsequent detraining. The aim of the study was to investigate differences in corticospinal and spinal responses to resistance training of the tibialis anterior muscle between shortening or lengthening muscle contractions for 4 weeks and after 2 weeks of detraining. Thirty-one untrained individuals were assigned to either shortening or lengthening isokinetic resistance training (4 weeks, 3 days/weeks) or a non-training control group. Transcranial magnetic stimulation and peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) were used to assess corticospinal and spinal changes, respectively, at pre-, mid-, post-resistance training and post detraining. Greater increases changes (P < 0.01) in MVC were found from the respective muscle contraction training. Motor evoked potentials (expressed relative to background EMG) significantly increased in lengthening resistance training group under contraction intensities ranging from 25 to 80% of the shortening and lengthening contraction intensity (P < 0.01). In the shortening resistance training group increases were only seen at 50 and 80% of both contraction type. Volitional drive (V-wave) showed a greater increase following lengthening resistance training (57%) during maximal lengthening contractions compared to maximal shortening contractions following shortening resistance training (23%; P < 0.001). During the detraining period MVC and V-wave did not change (P > 0.05), although MEP amplitude decreased during the detraining period (P < 0.01). No changes in H-reflex were found pre to post resistance training or post detraining. Modulation in V-wave appeared to be contraction specific, whereby greatest increases occurred following lengthening resistance training. Strength and volitional drive is maintained following 2 weeks detraining, however corticospinal excitability appears to decrease when the training stimulus is withdrawn. PMID:28223941

A review of mixing and propulsion of chyme in the small intestine: fresh insights from new methods.

PubMed

Lentle, R G; de Loubens, C

2015-05-01

The small intestine is a convoluted flexible tube of inconstant form and capacity through which chyme is propelled and mixed by varying patterns of contraction. These inconstancies have prevented quantitative comparisons of the manner in which contractile activity engenders mixing of contained chyme. Recent quantitative work based on spatiotemporal mapping of intestinal contractions, macro- and micro-rheology, particle image velocimetry and real-time modelling has provided new insights into this process. Evidence indicates that the speeds and patterns of the various types of small intestinal contraction are insufficient to secure optimal mixing and enzymatic digestion over a minimal length of intestine. Hence particulate substrates and soluble nutrients become dispersed along the length of the lumen. Mixing within the lumen is not turbulent but results from localised folding and kneading of the contents by contractions but is augmented by the inconstant spatial disposition of the contractions and their component contractile processes. The latter include inconstancies in the sites of commencement and the directions of propagation of contraction in component groups of smooth muscle cells and in the coordination of the radial and circular components of smooth muscle contraction. Evidence suggests there is ongoing augmentation of mixing at the periphery of the lumen, during both the post-prandial and inter-meal periods, to promote flow around and between adjacent villi. This results largely from folding of the relatively inelastic mucosa during repeated radial and longitudinal muscular contraction, causing chyme to be displaced by periodic crowding and separation of the tips of the relatively rigid villi. Further, micro-rheological studies indicate that such peripheral mixing may extend to the apices of enterocytes owing to discontinuities in the mobile mucus layer that covers the ileal mucosa.

Anisotropic contraction of hydrogel reinforced by aligned fibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Olvera de La Cruz, Monica; Liu, Shuangping

Hydrogel reinforced by aligned fibers can have strong anisotropic contraction or swelling behavior triggered by external stimuli, which has been largely employed in realizing soft actuators for artificial muscles as well as many biological systems. In this work, we investigate how this anisotropic behavior is controlled by the dimension of the embedded fibers and their reinforcement to the surrounding hydrogel. We describe the anisotropic contraction of hydrogels with rigid fibers using the Flory-Rehner thermodynamic model under periodic boundary conditions. It is found that a hydrogel reinforced by aligned fibers exhibits larger anisotropy when it is pre-stretched before contraction. Using finite element method, we further observe that the anisotropic contraction is dampened by reducing the fiber-fiber distance due to the finite size of the fibers.

The current status of materials for posterior composite restorations: the advent of low shrink.

PubMed

Burke, F J trevor; Palin, W M; James, A; Mackenzie, L; Sands, P

2009-09-01

Polymerization contraction, and the stresses associated with this, have presented problems with resin composite materials, particularly when used to restore cavities in posterior teeth. This paper summarizes the problems associated with polymerization contraction and examines methods used to overcome this, in particular, by the use of materials which have reduced percentage contraction when compared with traditional materials. Use of a material with reduced polymerization contraction should lead to simpler restoration placement.

Advanced Modulation and Coding Technology Conference

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1992-01-01

The objectives, approach, and status of all current LeRC-sponsored industry contracts and university grants are presented. The following topics are covered: (1) the LeRC Space Communications Program, and Advanced Modulation and Coding Projects; (2) the status of four contracts for development of proof-of-concept modems; (3) modulation and coding work done under three university grants, two small business innovation research contracts, and two demonstration model hardware development contracts; and (4) technology needs and opportunities for future missions.

Voltage-dependent Ca2+ release from the SR of feline ventricular myocytes is explained by Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release

PubMed Central

Piacentino, Valentino; Dipla, Konstantina; Gaughan, John P; Houser, Steven R

2000-01-01

Direct voltage-gated (voltage-dependent Ca2+ release, VDCR) and Ca2+ influx-gated (Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release, CICR) sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ release were studied in feline ventricular myocytes. The voltage-contraction relationship predicted by the VDCR hypothesis is sigmoidal with large contractions at potentials near the Ca2+ equilibrium potential (ECa). The relationship predicted by the CICR hypothesis is bell-shaped with no contraction at ECa. The voltage dependence of contraction was measured in ventricular myocytes at physiological temperature (37 °C), resting membrane potential and physiological [K+]. Experiments were performed with cyclic adenosine 3′,5′-monophosphate (cAMP) in the pipette or in the presence of the β-adrenergic agonist isoproterenol (isoprenaline; ISO). The voltage-contraction relationship was bell-shaped in Na+-free solutions (to eliminate the Na+ current and Na+-Ca2+ exchange, NCX) but the relationship was broader than the L-type Ca2+ current (ICa,L)-voltage relationship. Contractions induced with voltage steps from normal resting potentials to -40 mV are thought to represent VDCR rather than CICR. We found that cAMP and ISO shifted the voltage dependence of ICa,L activation to more negative potentials so that ICa,L was always present with steps to -40 mV. ICa,L at -40 mV inactivated when the holding potential was decreased (V½ =−57·8 ± 0·49 mV). ISO increased inward current, SR Ca2+ load and contraction in physiological [Na+] and a broad bell-shaped voltage-contraction relationship was observed. Inhibition of reverse-mode NCX, decreasing ICa,L and decreasing SR Ca2+ loading all decreased contractions at strongly positive potentials near ECa. The voltage-contraction relationship in 200 μM cadmium (Cd2+) was bell-shaped, supporting a role of ICa,L rather than VDCR. All results could be accounted for by the CICR hypothesis, and many results exclude the VDCR hypothesis. PMID:10718736

Policy Design of Multi-Year Crop Insurance Contracts with Partial Payments

PubMed Central

Chen, Ying-Erh; Goodwin, Barry K.

2015-01-01

Current crop insurance is designed to mitigate monetary fluctuations resulting from yield losses for a specific year. However, yield realization tendency can vary from year to year and may depend on the correlation of yield realizations across years. When the current single-year Yield Protection (YP) and Area Risk Protection Insurance (ARPI) contracts are extended to multiple periods, actuarially fair premium rate is expected to decrease as poor yield realizations in a year can be offset by another year’s better yield realizations. In this study, we first use simulations to demonstrate how significant premium savings are possible when coverage is based on the sum of yields across years rather than on a year-by-year basis. We then describe the design of a multi-year framework of crop insurance and model the insurance using a copula approach. Insurance terms are extended to more than a year and the premium, liability, and indemnity are determined by a multi-year term. Moreover, partial payment is provided at the end of each term to offset the possibility of significant loss in a single term. County-level data obtained from the U.S. Department of Agriculture are used to demonstrate the implementations of the proposed multi-year crop insurance. The proposed multi-year plan would benefit farmers by offering insurance guarantees across years for significantly lower costs. PMID:26695074

Reperfusion response changes induced by repeated, sustained contractions in normal human masseter muscle.

PubMed

Aizawa, Shigeru; Tsukiyama, Yoshihiro; Koyano, Kiyoshi; Clark, Glenn T

2002-07-01

The purpose was to evaluate the intramuscular reperfusion response characteristics associated with repeated isometric contractions in normal human masseter. Intramuscular blood volume was quantified with a near-infrared spectroscopic device that measured the total haemoglobin (Hb) concentration in the muscle. Electromyographic (EMG) activity from the masseter and total bite forces were also recorded. Sixteen healthy volunteers, eight females and eight males, without masticatory muscle pain participated. They were asked first to clench their teeth for as long as possible at 50% of their maximum voluntary contraction (MVC). This was followed by a 60s rest and then immediately by a standard clenching task (50% MVC for 30s) and a 60s recovery period, immediately after which they were asked to repeat exactly the same procedure, with a final 5 min recovery period after the second 30s contraction. Bite force, EMG and Hb concentration were measured continuously and the duration of the two endurance tasks and the amplitudes of all recorded signals were compared (first trial versus second trial). Specifically, the difference between the lowest Hb (trough) seen during the standardised 30s contractions and the highest (peak) seen just after them was assessed. The trough-to-peak difference in Hb concentration of the second standard contraction task was significantly smaller than that of the first standard task (P<0.05, paired t-test). These data show that with sustained effort the post-contraction vasodilatory reperfusion responses of the human masseter are diminished, suggesting a progressive desensitisation of the vasodilatory system.

Optimizing multiple reliable forward contracts for reservoir allocation using multitime scale streamflow forecasts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Mengqian; Lall, Upmanu; Robertson, Andrew W.; Cook, Edward

2017-03-01

Streamflow forecasts at multiple time scales provide a new opportunity for reservoir management to address competing objectives. Market instruments such as forward contracts with specified reliability are considered as a tool that may help address the perceived risk associated with the use of such forecasts in lieu of traditional operation and allocation strategies. A water allocation process that enables multiple contracts for water supply and hydropower production with different durations, while maintaining a prescribed level of flood risk reduction, is presented. The allocation process is supported by an optimization model that considers multitime scale ensemble forecasts of monthly streamflow and flood volume over the upcoming season and year, the desired reliability and pricing of proposed contracts for hydropower and water supply. It solves for the size of contracts at each reliability level that can be allocated for each future period, while meeting target end of period reservoir storage with a prescribed reliability. The contracts may be insurable, given that their reliability is verified through retrospective modeling. The process can allow reservoir operators to overcome their concerns as to the appropriate skill of probabilistic forecasts, while providing water users with short-term and long-term guarantees as to how much water or energy they may be allocated. An application of the optimization model to the Bhakra Dam, India, provides an illustration of the process. The issues of forecast skill and contract performance are examined. A field engagement of the idea is useful to develop a real-world perspective and needs a suitable institutional environment.

Dielectric Loaded Broadband Gyro-TWT System

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-12-31

A•wov•] f~ •ubic re] ease ;a AD-A277 889 -4 LLV t Final Report 01 Jan 92 - 31 Dec 93 DIELECTRIC LOADED BROADBAND GYRO- TWT SYSTEM Professor N. C...Loaded Broadband Gyro- TWT System" CONTRACT / GRANT NO.: F49620-92-J-O 175 CONTRACT / GRANT VALUE: $89,816 Acce’son For CONTRACT / GRANT PERIOD OF... Broadband Dielectric-Loaded Gyro- TWT Amplifier," submitted for publication to Physics Review Letters, October, 1993. A. Gover, F.V. Hartemann, G.P. Le

Generalized contractive mappings and weakly α-admissible pairs in G-metric spaces.

PubMed

Hussain, N; Parvaneh, V; Hoseini Ghoncheh, S J

2014-01-01

The aim of this paper is to present some coincidence and common fixed point results for generalized (ψ, φ)-contractive mappings using partially weakly G-α-admissibility in the setup of G-metric space. As an application of our results, periodic points of weakly contractive mappings are obtained. We also derive certain new coincidence point and common fixed point theorems in partially ordered G-metric spaces. Moreover, some examples are provided here to illustrate the usability of the obtained results.

Generalized Contractive Mappings and Weakly α-Admissible Pairs in G-Metric Spaces

PubMed Central

Hussain, N.; Parvaneh, V.; Hoseini Ghoncheh, S. J.

2014-01-01

The aim of this paper is to present some coincidence and common fixed point results for generalized (ψ, φ)-contractive mappings using partially weakly G-α-admissibility in the setup of G-metric space. As an application of our results, periodic points of weakly contractive mappings are obtained. We also derive certain new coincidence point and common fixed point theorems in partially ordered G-metric spaces. Moreover, some examples are provided here to illustrate the usability of the obtained results. PMID:25202742

Microcomputer Processing of LANDSAT Thematic Mapper Data for the Acquisition of Military Tactical Terrain Data.

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-04-12

12 9 5 VPV TiTAY T,%. T , TiRAiU A ~ 6. PERFORMING ORG. REPORT NUMBER 7. AUTHOR(.) 6. CONTRACT OR GRANT NUMBER(a) .-- CPT zi 0 9. PERFORMING ...of period covered, such as the life of a contract covered in a final contractor report. Block 6. Performing Organization Report Number. Only numbers...affiliation of an author if it differs from that of the performing organization. Block 8. Contract or grant Number(s). For a contractor or grantee

Development of a current collection loss management system for SDI homopolar power supplies

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

Brown, D.W.

1989-01-01

High speed, high power density current collection systems have been identified as an enabling technology required to construct homopolar power supplies to meet SDI missions. This work is part of a three-year effort directed towards the analysis, experimental verification, and prototype construction of a current collection system designed to operate continuously at 2 kA/cm{sup 2}, at a rubbing speed of 200 m/s, and with acceptable losses in a space environment. To data, no system has achieved these conditions simultaneously. This is the annual report covering the second year period of performance on DOE contract DE-AC03-86SF16518. Major areas covered include design,more » construction and operation of a cryogenically cooled brush test rig, design and construction of a high speed brush test rig, optimization study for homopolar machines, loss analysis of the current collection system, and an application study which defines the air-core homopolar construction necessary to achieve the goal of 80--90 kW/kg generator power density. 17 figs., 2 tabs.« less

Positive inotropism in mammalian skeletal muscle in vitro during and after fatigue.

PubMed

Reading, S A; Murrant, C L; Barclay, J K

2004-04-01

We tested the hypothesis that positive inotropic factors decrease fatigue and improve recovery from fatigue in mammalian skeletal muscle in vitro. To induce fatigue, we stimulated mouse soleus and extensor digitorum longus (EDL) to perform isometric tetanic contractions (50 impulses x s(-1) for 0.5 s) at 6 contractions x min(-1) for 60 min in soleus and 3 contractions x min(-1) for 20 min in EDL. Muscles were submerged in Krebs-Henseleit bicarbonate solution (Krebs) at 27 degrees C gassed with 95% nitrogen - 5% carbon dioxide (anoxia). Before and for 67 min after the fatigue period, muscles contracted at 0.6 contractions x min(-1) in 95% oxygen - 5% carbon dioxide (hyperoxia). We added a permeable cAMP analog (N6, 2'-O-dibutyryladenosine 3':5'-cyclic monophosphate at 10(-3) mol x L(-1) (dcAMP)), caffeine (2 x 10(-3) mol x L(-1), or Krebs as vehicle control at 25 min before, during, or at the end of the fatigue period. In soleus and EDL, both challenges added before fatigue significantly increased developed force but only caffeine increased developed force when added during the fatigue period. At the end of fatigue, the decrease in force in challenged muscles was equal to or greater than in controls so that the force remaining was the same or less than in controls. EDL challenged with dcAMP or caffeine at any time recovered more force than controls. In soleus, caffeine improved recovery except when added before fatigue. With dcAMP added to soleus, recovery was better after challenges at 10 min and the end of the fatigue period. Thus, increased intracellular concentrations of cAMP and (or) Ca2+ did not decrease fatigue in either muscle but improved recovery from fatigue in EDL and, in some conditions, in soleus.

Climate-driven geographic distribution of the desert locust during recession periods: Subspecies' niche differentiation and relative risks under scenarios of climate change.

PubMed

Meynard, Christine N; Gay, Pierre-Emmanuel; Lecoq, Michel; Foucart, Antoine; Piou, Cyril; Chapuis, Marie-Pierre

2017-11-01

The desert locust is an agricultural pest that is able to switch from a harmless solitarious stage, during recession periods, to swarms of gregarious individuals that disperse long distances and affect areas from western Africa to India during outbreak periods. Large outbreaks have been recorded through centuries, and the Food and Agriculture Organization keeps a long-term, large-scale monitoring survey database in the area. However, there is also a much less known subspecies that occupies a limited area in Southern Africa. We used large-scale climatic and occurrence data of the solitarious phase of each subspecies during recession periods to understand whether both subspecies climatic niches differ from each other, what is the current potential geographical distribution of each subspecies, and how climate change is likely to shift their potential distribution with respect to current conditions. We evaluated whether subspecies are significantly specialized along available climate gradients by using null models of background climatic differences within and between southern and northern ranges and applying niche similarity and niche equivalency tests. The results point to climatic niche conservatism between the two clades. We complemented this analysis with species distribution modeling to characterize current solitarious distributions and forecast potential recession range shifts under two extreme climate change scenarios at the 2050 and 2090 time horizon. Projections suggest that, at a global scale, the northern clade could contract its solitarious recession range, while the southern clade is likely to expand its recession range. However, local expansions were also predicted in the northern clade, in particular in southern and northern margins of the current geographical distribution. In conclusion, monitoring and management practices should remain in place in northern Africa, while in Southern Africa the potential for the subspecies to pose a threat in the future should be investigated more closely. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

A Computational Model of the Ionic Currents, Ca2+ Dynamics and Action Potentials Underlying Contraction of Isolated Uterine Smooth Muscle

PubMed Central

Tong, Wing-Chiu; Choi, Cecilia Y.; Karche, Sanjay; Holden, Arun V.; Zhang, Henggui; Taggart, Michael J.

2011-01-01

Uterine contractions during labor are discretely regulated by rhythmic action potentials (AP) of varying duration and form that serve to determine calcium-dependent force production. We have employed a computational biology approach to develop a fuller understanding of the complexity of excitation-contraction (E-C) coupling of uterine smooth muscle cells (USMC). Our overall aim is to establish a mathematical platform of sufficient biophysical detail to quantitatively describe known uterine E-C coupling parameters and thereby inform future empirical investigations of physiological and pathophysiological mechanisms governing normal and dysfunctional labors. From published and unpublished data we construct mathematical models for fourteen ionic currents of USMCs: currents (L- and T-type), current, an hyperpolarization-activated current, three voltage-gated currents, two -activated current, -activated current, non-specific cation current, - exchanger, - pump and background current. The magnitudes and kinetics of each current system in a spindle shaped single cell with a specified surface area∶volume ratio is described by differential equations, in terms of maximal conductances, electrochemical gradient, voltage-dependent activation/inactivation gating variables and temporal changes in intracellular computed from known fluxes. These quantifications are validated by the reconstruction of the individual experimental ionic currents obtained under voltage-clamp. Phasic contraction is modeled in relation to the time constant of changing . This integrated model is validated by its reconstruction of the different USMC AP configurations (spikes, plateau and bursts of spikes), the change from bursting to plateau type AP produced by estradiol and of simultaneous experimental recordings of spontaneous AP, and phasic force. In summary, our advanced mathematical model provides a powerful tool to investigate the physiological ionic mechanisms underlying the genesis of uterine electrical E-C coupling of labor and parturition. This will furnish the evolution of descriptive and predictive quantitative models of myometrial electrogenesis at the whole cell and tissue levels. PMID:21559514

24 CFR 880.612 - Reviews during management period.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 4 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Reviews during management period... PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES PROGRAM) SECTION 8 HOUSING ASSISTANCE PAYMENTS PROGRAM FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION Management § 880.612 Reviews during management period. (a) After the effective date of the Contract, the...

24 CFR 880.612 - Reviews during management period.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 4 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Reviews during management period... PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES PROGRAM) SECTION 8 HOUSING ASSISTANCE PAYMENTS PROGRAM FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION Management § 880.612 Reviews during management period. (a) After the effective date of the Contract, the...

24 CFR 880.612 - Reviews during management period.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 4 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Reviews during management period... PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES PROGRAM) SECTION 8 HOUSING ASSISTANCE PAYMENTS PROGRAM FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION Management § 880.612 Reviews during management period. (a) After the effective date of the Contract, the...

24 CFR 880.612 - Reviews during management period.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 4 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Reviews during management period... PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES PROGRAM) SECTION 8 HOUSING ASSISTANCE PAYMENTS PROGRAM FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION Management § 880.612 Reviews during management period. (a) After the effective date of the Contract, the...

24 CFR 880.612 - Reviews during management period.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 4 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Reviews during management period... PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES PROGRAM) SECTION 8 HOUSING ASSISTANCE PAYMENTS PROGRAM FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION Management § 880.612 Reviews during management period. (a) After the effective date of the Contract, the...

24 CFR 220.820 - Maximum claim period.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 2 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Maximum claim period. 220.820 Section 220.820 Housing and Urban Development Regulations Relating to Housing and Urban Development... Contract Rights and Obligations-Projects Insured Project Improvement Loans § 220.820 Maximum claim period...

48 CFR 32.1108 - Payment by Governmentwide commercial purchase card.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

..., contracting officers are required to verify (by looking in the System for Award Management (SAM)) whether the... payment during any period the SAM indicates that the contractor has delinquent debt subject to collection...) Contracting officers shall not use the presence of the SAM debt flag indicator to exclude a contractor from...

48 CFR 32.1108 - Payment by Governmentwide commercial purchase card.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

..., contracting officers are required to verify (by looking in the System for Award Management (SAM)) whether the... payment during any period the SAM indicates that the contractor has delinquent debt subject to collection...) Contracting officers shall not use the presence of the SAM debt flag indicator to exclude a contractor from...

Northern Cheyenne Follow Through Project. Lame Deer, Montana 59043.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Montana State Dept. of Public Instruction, Helena.

Focusing on the basic skills of reading, math, and handwriting, the Northern Cheyenne Follow Through Project utilizes six concepts. First, token delivery of contract system for motivation involves having the child earn tokens or work on a contract as he accomplishes tasks in specific skills. During the spend period, he may trade for desired…

26 CFR 1.460-2 - Long-term manufacturing contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... time normally required to design and manufacture the first unit of an item for which the taxpayer... manufacture a new type of industrial equipment. C reasonably expects the normal production period for this... 26 Internal Revenue 6 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Long-term manufacturing contracts. 1.460-2...

48 CFR 1352.216-74 - Task orders.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... changes can be made. (g) Task orders may be placed during the period of performance of the contract. Labor... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 5 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Task orders. 1352.216-74... SOLICITATION PROVISIONS AND CONTRACT CLAUSES Text of Provisions and Clauses 1352.216-74 Task orders. As...

24 CFR 968.135 - Contracting requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... indicated by poor performance, a PHA may be required to submit to HUD periodic progress reports and, for... to 5% of the bid price; and one of the following: (1) A performance and payment bond for 100 percent of the contract price; or (2) Separate performance and payment bonds, each for 50% or more of the...

7 CFR 273.10 - Determining household eligibility and benefit levels.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... contract or self-employment, derive their annual income in a period of time shorter than 1 year shall have..., and other self-employed households. However, these provisions do not apply to migrant or seasonal farmworkers. The procedures for averaging self-employed income are described in § 273.11. Contract income...

41 CFR 301-11.300 - When is actual expense reimbursement warranted?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 4 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false When is actual expense reimbursement warranted? 301-11.300 Section 301-11.300 Public Contracts and Property Management Federal Travel... session is held; (b) Costs have escalated because of special events (e.g., missile launching periods...

29 CFR 4.146 - Contract obligations after award, generally.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... time spent by employees undertaking such training or phase-in work is considered to be hours worked on... thereunder only while the employees are performing on the contract, provided the contractor's records make clear the period of such performance. (See also § 4.179.) If employees of the contractor are required by...

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...

The Psychological Contract and Individual Differences: The Role of Exchange and Creditor Ideologies

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Coyle-Shapiro, Jacqueline A-M.; Neuman, Joel H.

2004-01-01

The present study examines exchange and creditor ideologies (two dispositional characteristics that are strongly related to exchange relationships) and their moderating effects on the psychological contract. Five hundred public-sector employees were studied over a 3-year period. Respondents' were surveyed as to their perceptions of what they…

Engineering Accountability for Results into Public Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lessinger, Leon

"Accountability" is a classical term in management theory, but new in education. It is the product of the process of performance contracting, in which a public authority grants money to a local educational agency to contract with private enterprise to achieve specific goals within a specific period for specific costs. This process can be…

76 FR 46840 - Time Extension To Accept Proposals, Select One Lessee, and Contract for Hydroelectric Power...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-08-03

... DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Bureau of Reclamation Time Extension To Accept Proposals, Select One Lessee, and Contract for Hydroelectric Power Development at the Pueblo Dam River Outlet, a Feature of the... period for accepting written proposals detailed in the Notice of Intent to Accept Proposals, Select One...

[Job status after the resident training period in Spain. Analysis of a national survey.

PubMed

García Sanz, Miguel; Rodríguez Socarrás, Moises; Tortolero Blanco, Leonardo; Pesquera-Ortega, Laura; Colombo, Juan; Gómez Rivas, Juan

2018-01-01

Since the establishment of specialization of medicine through the residency system, Spanish health care has sought to maintain a balance between established needs and trained professionals, with the aim of avoiding the deficit or excess of health specialists with its consequences. The objective of the present review is to know the working conditions of urologist specialists at the end of the residency training period. The results of a survey for urologist who completed their residency contract from 2012 to 2016 are presented, assessing working status, academic and working data during the first months after the completion of specialized training. A total of 42 surveys were collected. All respondents had a working contract within 6 months of completing their training. 71% had a temporary contract, most with duration of less than one year. There are more contract numbers in the public health system, although they increase progressively in the private sector. More than half of the respondents were satisfied with their work situation. The work insertion of the recently specialized urologists is high, reaching 100% within 6 months of finishing their specialization. Labor quality issues are not so positive, observing great working instability associated to a high proportion of temporary contracts lower than 6 months.

General field and office procedures for indirect discharge measurements

USGS Publications Warehouse

Benson, M.A.; Dalrymple, Tate

2001-04-01

The discharge of streams is usually measured by the current-meter method. During flood periods, however, it is frequently impossible or impractical to measure the discharges by this method when they occur. Consequently, many peak discharges must be determined after the passage of the flood by indirect methods, such as slope-area, contracted-opening, flow-over-dam, and flow-through-culvert, rather than by direct current-meter measurement. Indirect methods of determining peak discharge are based on hydraulic equations which relate the discharge to the water-surface profile and the geometry of the channel. A field survey is made after the flood to determine the location and elevation of high-water marks and the characteristics of the channel. Detailed descriptions of the general procedures used in collecting the field data and in computing the discharge are given in this report. Each of the methods requires special procedures described in subsequent chapters.

48 CFR 2052.211-71 - Technical progress report.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... investigator, the contract period of performance, and the period covered by the report. Each report must include the following for each discrete task/task order: (a) A listing of the efforts completed during the...

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...

77 FR 63911 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; International Securities Exchange, LLC; Notice of Filing and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-10-17

... (excluding SPY), the Exchange currently charges a taker fee of: (i) $0.37 per contract for Market Maker,\\6... order taker fee in the Select Symbols (excluding SPY) to $0.39 per contract for Firm Proprietary/Broker... to increase the complex order taker fee in SPY to $0.40 per contract for Firm Proprietary/Broker...

Analysis of Army Contracting Command Contract Specialist Vacancy Announcements

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-09-01

program CPCM Certified Professional Contracts Manager CPM Certified Purchasing Manager CPOL Civilian Personnel Online CPSM Certified...experience, a Bachelor’s degree and the applicant is 28 required to pass three CPSM examinations. (2) The Certified Purchasing Manager Program ( CPM ...is currently being phased out and is available only for recertification. The CPM required five years of full time professional supply management

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...

[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.

Game-Theoretic Models for Usage-based Maintenance Contract

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Husniah, H.; Wangsaputra, R.; Cakravastia, A.; Iskandar, B. P.

2018-03-01

A usage-based maintenance contracts with coordination and non coordination between two parties is studied in this paper. The contract is applied to a dump truck operated in a mining industry. The situation under study is that an agent offers service contract to the owner of the truck after warranty ends. This contract has only a time limit but no usage limit. If the total usage per period exceeds the maximum usage allowed in the contract, then the owner will be charged an additional cost. In general, the agent (Original Equipment Manufacturer/OEM) provides a full coverage of maintenance, which includes PM and CM under the lease contract. The decision problem for the owner is to select the best option offered that fits to its requirement, and the decision problem for the agent is to find the optimal maintenance efforts for a given price of the service option offered. We first find the optimal decisions using coordination scheme and then with non coordination scheme for both parties.

LD-PACE II: a new cardiomyostimulator for cardiac bioassist.

PubMed

Chekanov, V S; Chachques, J C; Brum, F; Arzuaga, J; Arzuaga, P; Krum, D P; Hare, J W; Maternowski, M A; Tchekanov, G V; Fiandra, O; Hammond, R; Melamed, V; Chiu, R C; Stephenson, L W

2001-01-01

The LD-PACE II was designed for use in cardiomyoplasty, aortomyoplasty, and skeletal muscle ventricles. All parameters specified as programmable can be changed in a noninvasive manner (using a programming interface wand connected to a computer using the Windows 95/98 environment). Two new functions may be very useful clinically, based on experimental research. 1. Work-rest regimen. The LD-PACE II is able to deliver alternating periods of muscle contractions and rest. Work and rest periods may be programmed independently between 1 and 120 minutes in increments of 1 minute. The work-rest regimen may be useful clinically if muscle contractions are needed for cardiac assist postoperatively. 2. Night/day regimen. This feature allows for a change in the ratio of muscle contractions according to a patient's activity level. During the day the cardiosynchronization ratio may be set from 1:1 to 1:4, and during the night it may be set for 1:8 to 1:16. This allows the muscle to have a long rest period, prevents overuse, and prolongs battery life. These two new features make this cardiomyostimulator very attractive for cardiomyoplasty in particular. The addition of the work-rest and night-day regimens allow the muscle to rest for periods during the day to prevent overuse, subsequent damage, and potential atrophy.

GPHS-RTGs in support of the Cassini RTG Program

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

1995-04-01

The technical progress achieved during the period 26 Sep. 1994 - 2 Apr. 1995 on Contract DE-AC03-91SF-18852 Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators and Ancillary Activities is described herein. Monthly technical activity for the period 27 Feb. - 2 Apr. 1995 is included in this progress report. The report addresses tasks, including: spacecraft integration and liaison; engineering support; safety; qualified unicouple production; ETG fabrication, assembly, and test; ground support equipment; RTG shipping and launch support; designs, reviews, and mission applications; project management, quality assurance, reliability, contract changes, CAGO acquisition (operating funds), and CAGO maintenance and repair; and CAGO acquisition (capital funds).

36 CFR 223.81 - Shorter advertising periods in emergencies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 2 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Shorter advertising periods... FOREST BOTANICAL PRODUCTS Timber Sale Contracts Advertisement and Bids § 223.81 Shorter advertising... officer may authorize shortening the formal advertising period to not less than 7 days. In other emergency...

Nitric oxide augments voltage-activated calcium currents of crustacea (Idotea baltica) skeletal muscle.

PubMed

Erxleben, C; Hermann, A

2001-03-16

Invertebrate skeletal muscle contraction is regulated by calcium influx through voltage-dependent calcium channels in the sarcolemmal membrane. In present study we investigated the effects of nitric oxide (NO) donors on calcium currents of single skeletal muscle fibres from the marine isopod, Idotea baltica, using two-electrode voltage clamp recording techniques. The NO donors, S-nitrosocysteine, S-nitroso-N-acetyl-penicillamine or hydroxylamine reversibly increased calcium inward currents in a time dependent manner. The increase of the current was prevented by methylene blue. Our experiments suggest that NO increases calcium inward currents. NO, by acting on calcium ion channels in the sarcolemmal membrane, therefore, may directly be involved in the modulation of muscle contraction.

Survey of the Effects of Exposure to 900 MHz Radiofrequency Radiation Emitted by a GSM Mobile Phone on the Pattern of Muscle Contractions in an Animal Model

PubMed Central

Mortazavi, S. M. J.; Rahimi, S.; Talebi, A.; Soleimani, A.; Rafati, A.

2015-01-01

Background: The rapid development of wireless telecommunication technologies over the past decades, has led to significant changes in the exposure of the general public to electromagnetic fields. Nowadays, people are continuously exposed to different sources of electromagnetic fields such as mobile phones, mobile base stations, cordless phones, Wi-Fi routers, and power lines. Therefore, the last decade witnessed a rapidly growing concern about the possible health effects of exposure to electromagnetic fields emitted by these sources. Materials and Methods: In this study that was aimed at investigating the effects of exposure to radiofrequency (RF) radiation emitted by a GSM mobile phone on the pattern of contraction in frog’s isolated gastrocnemius muscle after stimulation with single square pulses of 1V (1 Hz), pulse height of contractions, the time interval between two subsequent contractions and the latency period were measured. Results: Our findings showed that the pulse height of contractions muscle could be affected by the exposure to electromagnetic fields. Especially, the latency period was effectively altered in RF-exposed samples. However, none of the experiments could show an alteration in the time interval between two subsequent contractions after exposure to electromagnetic fields. Conclusion: These findings support early reports which indicated a wide variety of non-thermal effects of electromagnetic radiation on amphibians including the effects on the pattern of muscle extractions. PMID:26396968

Ineffective esophageal motility and the vagus: current challenges and future prospects

PubMed Central

Chen, Ji-Hong

2016-01-01

Ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) is characterized by low to very low amplitude propulsive contractions in the distal esophagus, hence primarily affecting the smooth muscle part of the esophagus. IEM is often found in patients with dysphagia or heartburn and is commonly associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease. IEM is assumed to be associated with ineffective bolus transport; however, this can be verified using impedance measurements or evaluation of a barium coated marshmallow swallow. Furthermore, water swallows may not assess accurately the motor capabilities of the esophagus, since contraction amplitude is strongly determined by the size and consistency of the bolus. The “peristaltic reserve” of the esophagus can be evaluated by multiple rapid swallows that, after a period of diglutative inhibition, normally give a powerful peristaltic contraction suggestive of the integrity of neural orchestration and smooth muscle action. The amplitude of contraction is determined by a balance between intrinsic excitatory cholinergic, inhibitory nitrergic, as well as postinhibition rebound excitatory output to the musculature. This is strongly influenced by vagal efferent motor neurons and this in turn is influenced by vagal afferent neurons that send bolus information to the solitary nucleus where programmed activation of the vagal motor neurons to the smooth muscle esophagus is initiated. Solitary nucleus activity is influenced by sensory activity from a large number of organs and various areas of the brain, including the hypothalamus and the cerebral cortex. This allows interaction between swallowing activities and respiratory and cardiac activities and allows the influence of acute and chronic emotional states on swallowing behavior. Interstitial cells of Cajal are part of the sensory units of vagal afferents, the intramuscular arrays, and they provide pacemaker activity to the musculature that can generate peristalsis in the absence of innervation. This indicates that a low-amplitude esophageal contraction, observed as IEM, can be caused by a multitude of factors, and therefore many pathways can be potentially explored to restore normal esophageal peristalsis. PMID:27703389

Ineffective esophageal motility and the vagus: current challenges and future prospects.

PubMed

Chen, Ji-Hong

2016-01-01

Ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) is characterized by low to very low amplitude propulsive contractions in the distal esophagus, hence primarily affecting the smooth muscle part of the esophagus. IEM is often found in patients with dysphagia or heartburn and is commonly associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease. IEM is assumed to be associated with ineffective bolus transport; however, this can be verified using impedance measurements or evaluation of a barium coated marshmallow swallow. Furthermore, water swallows may not assess accurately the motor capabilities of the esophagus, since contraction amplitude is strongly determined by the size and consistency of the bolus. The "peristaltic reserve" of the esophagus can be evaluated by multiple rapid swallows that, after a period of diglutative inhibition, normally give a powerful peristaltic contraction suggestive of the integrity of neural orchestration and smooth muscle action. The amplitude of contraction is determined by a balance between intrinsic excitatory cholinergic, inhibitory nitrergic, as well as postinhibition rebound excitatory output to the musculature. This is strongly influenced by vagal efferent motor neurons and this in turn is influenced by vagal afferent neurons that send bolus information to the solitary nucleus where programmed activation of the vagal motor neurons to the smooth muscle esophagus is initiated. Solitary nucleus activity is influenced by sensory activity from a large number of organs and various areas of the brain, including the hypothalamus and the cerebral cortex. This allows interaction between swallowing activities and respiratory and cardiac activities and allows the influence of acute and chronic emotional states on swallowing behavior. Interstitial cells of Cajal are part of the sensory units of vagal afferents, the intramuscular arrays, and they provide pacemaker activity to the musculature that can generate peristalsis in the absence of innervation. This indicates that a low-amplitude esophageal contraction, observed as IEM, can be caused by a multitude of factors, and therefore many pathways can be potentially explored to restore normal esophageal peristalsis.

Process Improvement for Interinstitutional Research Contracting.

PubMed

Varner, Michael; Logan, Jennifer; Bjorklund, Todd; Whitfield, Jesse; Reed, Peggy; Lesher, Laurie; Sikalis, Amy; Brown, Brent; Drollinger, Sandy; Larrabee, Kristine; Thompson, Kristie; Clark, Erin; Workman, Michael; Boi, Luca

2015-08-01

Sponsored research increasingly requires multiinstitutional collaboration. However, research contracting procedures have become more complicated and time consuming. The perinatal research units of two colocated healthcare systems sought to improve their research contracting processes. The Lean Process, a management practice that iteratively involves team members in root cause analyses and process improvement, was applied to the research contracting process, initially using Process Mapping and then developing Problem Solving Reports. Root cause analyses revealed that the longest delays were the individual contract legal negotiations. In addition, the "business entity" was the research support personnel of both healthcare systems whose "customers" were investigators attempting to conduct interinstitutional research. Development of mutually acceptable research contract templates and language, chain of custody templates, and process development and refinement formats decreased the Notice of Grant Award to Purchase Order time from a mean of 103.5 days in the year prior to Lean Process implementation to 45.8 days in the year after implementation (p = 0.004). The Lean Process can be applied to interinstitutional research contracting with significant improvement in contract implementation. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Wound healing activity of Sida cordifolia Linn. in rats.

PubMed

Pawar, Rajesh S; Chaurasiya, Pradeep K; Rajak, Harish; Singour, Pradeep K; Toppo, Fedelic Ashish; Jain, Ankit

2013-01-01

The present study provides a scientific evaluation for the wound healing potential of ethanolic (EtOH) extract of Sida cordifolia Linn. (SCL) plant. Excision, incision and burn wounds were inflicted upon three groups of six rats each. Group I was assigned as control (ointment base). Group II was treated with 10% EtOH extract ointment. Group III was treated with standard silver sulfadiazine (0.01%) cream. The parameters observed were percentage of wound contraction, epithelialization period, hydroxyproline content, tensile strength including histopathological studies. It was noted that the effect produced by the ethanolic extract of SCL ointment showed significant (P < 0.01) healing in all wound models when compared with the control group. All parameters such as wound contraction, epithelialization period, hydroxyproline content, tensile strength and histopathological studies showed significant (P < 0.01) changes when compared with the control. The ethanolic extract ointment of SCL effectively stimulates wound contraction; increases tensile strength of excision, incision and burn wounds.

Muscle Channelopathies: the Nondystrophic Myotonias and Periodic Paralyses

PubMed Central

Statland, Jeffrey M.; Barohn, Richard J.

2013-01-01

Purpose of Review The muscle channelopathies are a group of rare inherited diseases caused by mutations in muscle ion channels. Mutations cause an increase or decrease in muscle membrane excitability, leading to a spectrum of related clinical disorders: the nondystrophic myotonias are characterized by delayed relaxation after muscle contraction, causing muscle stiffness and pain; the periodic paralyses are characterized by episodes of flaccid muscle paralysis. This review describes the clinical characteristics, molecular pathogenesis, and treatments of the nondystrophic myotonias and periodic paralyses. Recent Findings Advances have been made in both the treatment and our understanding of the molecular pathophysiology of muscle channelopathies: (1) a recent controlled trial showed that mexiletine was effective for reducing symptoms and signs of myotonia in nondystrophic myotonia; (2) the mechanisms by which hypokalemic periodic paralysis leads to a depolarized but unexcitable sarcolemma membrane have been traced to a novel gating pore current; and (3) an association was demonstrated between mutations in a potassium inward rectifier and patients with thyrotoxic periodic paralysis. Summary The muscle channelopathies are an expanding group of muscle diseases caused by mutations in sodium, chloride, potassium, and calcium ion channels that result in increased or decreased muscle membrane excitability. Recognizing patients with channelopathies and confirming the diagnosis is important, as treatment and management strategies differ based on mutation and clinical phenotype. PMID:24305449

Options for change in the NHS consultant contract.

PubMed

Clarke, R W; Gray, C

The lead negotiators for the management and consultant sides in an NHS trust in northern England responded to debate in their trust about consultant contracts by offering to research the attitudes of their peers towards a variety of contract options. The options tested included the current contract; models already examined in the trust and elsewhere, such as time sensitive and mild performance related contracts; and some more radical and speculative possibilities, including consultants franchising their services to the trust. Beyond the predictable conclusion that consultants would prefer no change while managers desired it, a time sensitive contract emerged as having potential for successful negotiation. On the other hand, neither consultants nor managers favoured a strict performance related contract or a fee for service contract. There was a strong similarity of opinion between the two groups on the relative salary values of the options, though the consultants consistently priced these higher than the managers.

Options for change in the NHS consultant contract.

PubMed Central

Clarke, R. W.; Gray, C.

1994-01-01

The lead negotiators for the management and consultant sides in an NHS trust in northern England responded to debate in their trust about consultant contracts by offering to research the attitudes of their peers towards a variety of contract options. The options tested included the current contract; models already examined in the trust and elsewhere, such as time sensitive and mild performance related contracts; and some more radical and speculative possibilities, including consultants franchising their services to the trust. Beyond the predictable conclusion that consultants would prefer no change while managers desired it, a time sensitive contract emerged as having potential for successful negotiation. On the other hand, neither consultants nor managers favoured a strict performance related contract or a fee for service contract. There was a strong similarity of opinion between the two groups on the relative salary values of the options, though the consultants consistently priced these higher than the managers. PMID:8086915

The Joint Convention on the Safety of Spent Fuel Management and on the Safety of Radioactive Waste Management

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

Risoluti, P.

The Joint Convention on the Safety of Spent Fuel Management and the Safety of Radioactive Waste Management (the Joint Convention) is the only legally binding international treaty in the area of radioactive waste management. It was adopted by a Diplomatic Conference in September 1997 and opened for signature on 29 September 1997. The Convention entered into force on 18 June 1998, and to date (September 04) has been signed by 42 States, of which 34 have formally ratified, thus becoming Contracting Parties. The Joint Convention applies to spent fuel and radioactive waste resulting from civilian application. Its principal aim ismore » to achieve and maintain a high degree of safety in their management worldwide. The Convention is an incentive instrument, not designed to ensure fulfillment of obligations through control and sanction, but by a peer pressure. The obligations of the Contracting Parties are mainly based on the international safety standards developed by the IAEA in past decades. The Convention is intended for all countries generating radioactive waste. Therefore it is relevant not only for those using nuclear power, but for any country where application of nuclear energy in medicine, conventional industry and research is currently used. Obligations of Contracting Parties include attending periodic Review Meetings and prepare National Reports for review by the other Contracting Parties. The National Reports should describe how the country is complying with the requirements of the Articles of the Convention. The first such meeting was held at the IAEA headquarters in November 2003. This paper will describe the origin of the Convention, present its content, the expected outcome for the worldwide safety, and the benefits for a country to be part of it.« less

Essays on Mathematical Optimization for Residential Demand Response in the Energy Sector

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Palaparambil Dinesh, Lakshmi

In the electric utility industry, it could be challenging to adjust supply to match demand due to large generator ramp up times, high generation costs and insufficient in-house generation capacity. Demand response (DR) is a technique for adjusting the demand for electric power instead of the supply. Direct Load Control (DLC) is one of the ways to implement DR. DLC program participants sign up for power interruption contracts and are given financial incentives for curtailing electricity usage during peak demand time periods. This dissertation studies a DLC program for residential air conditioners using mathematical optimization models. First, we develop a model that determines what contract parameters to use in designing contracts between the provider and residential customers, when to turn which power unit on or off and how much power to cut during peak demand hours. The model uses information on customer preferences for choice of contract parameters such as DLC financial incentives and energy usage curtailment. In numerical experiments, the proposed model leads to projected cost savings of the order of 20%, compared to a current benchmark model used in practice. We also quantify the impact of factors leading to cost savings and study characteristics of customers picked by different contracts. Second, we study a DLC program in a macro economic environment using a Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) model. A CGE model is used to study the impact of external factors such as policy and technology changes on different economic sectors. Here we differentiate customers based on their preference for DLC programs by using different values for price elasticity of demand for electricity commodity. Consequently, DLC program customers could substitute demand for electricity commodity with other commodities such as transportation sector. Price elasticity of demand is calculated using a novel methodology that incorporates customer preferences for DLC contracts from the first model. The calculation of elasticity based on our methodology is useful since the prices of commodities are not only determined by aggregate demand and supply but also by customers' relative preferences for commodities. In addition to this we quantify the indirect substitution and rebound effects on sectoral activity levels, incomes and prices based on customer differences, when DLC is implemented.

29 CFR 4.147-4.149 - [Reserved

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 29 Labor 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 true [Reserved] 4.147-4.149 Section 4.147-4.149 Labor Office of the Secretary of Labor LABOR STANDARDS FOR FEDERAL SERVICE CONTRACTS Application of the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act Period of Coverage §§ 4.147-4.149 [Reserved] Employees Covered by the Act ...

30 CFR 1206.178 - How do I determine a transportation allowance?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

..., Gas Transportation Allowance Report, within 3 months after the end of the 12-month period to which the... subsequent amendments to the contract(s) within 2 months of the date ONRR receives your report which claims... we determine that it meets one of the two following requirements: (A) The methodology in paragraph (a...

Between a Rock and a Hard Place: Public Sector Unions and New York's Triborough Amendment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Freeman, James E.; Kolozi, Peter

2016-01-01

Ever wonder why union members' salary and benefits, workload agreements, and other aspects of their collective bargaining agreements, or "contracts," often remain unchanged and enforced during the all-too-common periods when public employees labor without a contract? In New York, the answer boils down to an understanding of the Public…

A Contingency Approach to the Management of Innovation in a Climate of Contraction.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Doyle, Ken J.; Seagren, Alan T.

The impact on an organization's capacity to respond inevitably to changing needs of the many variables affecting the organization is considered, along with a framework for developing innovations, especially in a time when colleges are facing a period of contraction. A contingency approach to the management of innovation focuses on the influence of…

48 CFR 237.106 - Funding and term of service contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... period of the contract awarded, option exercised, or order placed does not exceed 1 year (10 U.S.C. 2410a... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 3 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Funding and term of... or consultant services shall not exceed 1 year. The nature of the duties must be— (i) Temporary (not...

48 CFR 237.106 - Funding and term of service contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... period of the contract awarded, option exercised, or order placed does not exceed 1 year (10 U.S.C. 2410a... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 3 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Funding and term of... or consultant services shall not exceed 1 year. The nature of the duties must be— (i) Temporary (not...

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...

48 CFR 970.5215-3 - Conditional payment of fee, profit, and other incentives-facility management contracts

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... period, the DOE Operations/Field Office Manager, or designee, may reduce any otherwise earned fee, fixed... prescribed in 970.1504-5(b)(1), insert the following clause: Conditional Payment of Fee, Profit, and Other Incentives—Facility Management Contracts (AUG 2009) (a) General. (1) The payment of earned fee, fixed fee...

48 CFR 852.236-83 - Payments under fixed-price construction contracts (including NAS).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... shall show on the critical path method (CPM) network the total cost of the guarantee period services in... prescribed in 832.111, insert the following clause in contracts that contain a section entitled “Network...) Failure either to meet schedules in Section Network Analysis System (NAS), or to process the Interim Arrow...

48 CFR 852.236-83 - Payments under fixed-price construction contracts (including NAS).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... shall show on the critical path method (CPM) network the total cost of the guarantee period services in... prescribed in 832.111, insert the following clause in contracts that contain a section entitled “Network...) Failure either to meet schedules in Section Network Analysis System (NAS), or to process the Interim Arrow...

48 CFR 852.236-83 - Payments under fixed-price construction contracts (including NAS).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... shall show on the critical path method (CPM) network the total cost of the guarantee period services in... prescribed in 832.111, insert the following clause in contracts that contain a section entitled “Network...) Failure either to meet schedules in Section Network Analysis System (NAS), or to process the Interim Arrow...

Navigational Strategies of Migrating Monarch Butterflies

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-11-10

AFRL-OSR-VA-TR-2014-0339 NAVIGATIONAL STRATEGIES OF MIGRATING MONARCH BUTTERFLIES Steven Reppert UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS Final Report 11/10/2014...Final Progress Statement to (Dr. Patrick Bradshaw) Contract/Grant Title: Navigational Strategies of Migrating Monarch Butterflies Contract...Grant #: FA9550-10-1-0480 Reporting Period: 01-Sept-10 to 31-Aug-14 Overview of accomplishments: Migrating monarch butterflies (Danaus

Social contract theory as a foundation of the social responsibilities of health professionals.

PubMed

Welie, Jos V M

2012-08-01

This paper seeks to define and delimit the scope of the social responsibilities of health professionals in reference to the concept of a social contract. While drawing on both historical data and current empirical information, this paper will primarily proceed analytically and examine the theoretical feasibility of deriving social responsibilities from the phenomenon of professionalism via the concept of a social contract.

Leucine-Enriched Essential Amino Acids Augment Muscle Glycogen Content in Rats Seven Days after Eccentric Contraction

PubMed Central

Kato, Hiroyuki; Miura, Kyoko; Suzuki, Katsuya; Bannai, Makoto

2017-01-01

Eccentric contractions induce muscle damage, which impairs recovery of glycogen and adenosine tri-phosphate (ATP) content over several days. Leucine-enriched essential amino acids (LEAAs) enhance the recovery in muscles that are damaged after eccentric contractions. However, the role of LEAAs in this process remains unclear. We evaluated the content in glycogen and high energy phosphates molecules (phosphocreatine (PCr), adenosine di-phosphate (ADP) and ATP) in rats that were following electrically stimulated eccentric contractions. Muscle glycogen content decreased immediately after the contraction and remained low for the first three days after the stimulation, but increased seven days after the eccentric contraction. LEAAs administration did not change muscle glycogen content during the first three days after the contraction. Interestingly, however, it induced a further increase in muscle glycogen seven days after the stimulation. Contrarily, ATP content decreased immediately after the eccentric contraction, and remained lower for up to seven days after. Additionally, LEAAs administration did not affect the ATP content over the experimental period. Finally, ADP and PCr levels did not significantly change after the contractions or LEAA administration. LEAAs modulate the recovery of glycogen content in muscle after damage-inducing exercise. PMID:29065533

Leucine-Enriched Essential Amino Acids Augment Muscle Glycogen Content in Rats Seven Days after Eccentric Contraction.

PubMed

Kato, Hiroyuki; Miura, Kyoko; Suzuki, Katsuya; Bannai, Makoto

2017-10-23

Eccentric contractions induce muscle damage, which impairs recovery of glycogen and adenosine tri-phosphate (ATP) content over several days. Leucine-enriched essential amino acids (LEAAs) enhance the recovery in muscles that are damaged after eccentric contractions. However, the role of LEAAs in this process remains unclear. We evaluated the content in glycogen and high energy phosphates molecules (phosphocreatine (PCr), adenosine di-phosphate (ADP) and ATP) in rats that were following electrically stimulated eccentric contractions. Muscle glycogen content decreased immediately after the contraction and remained low for the first three days after the stimulation, but increased seven days after the eccentric contraction. LEAAs administration did not change muscle glycogen content during the first three days after the contraction. Interestingly, however, it induced a further increase in muscle glycogen seven days after the stimulation. Contrarily, ATP content decreased immediately after the eccentric contraction, and remained lower for up to seven days after. Additionally, LEAAs administration did not affect the ATP content over the experimental period. Finally, ADP and PCr levels did not significantly change after the contractions or LEAA administration. LEAAs modulate the recovery of glycogen content in muscle after damage-inducing exercise.

[Boundaries and integrity in the "Social Contract for Spanish Science", 1907-1939].

PubMed

Gómez, Amparo

2014-01-01

This article analyzes the relationship between science and politics in Spain in the early 20th century from the perspective of the Social Contract for Science. The article shows that a genuine social contract for science was instituted in Spain during this period, although some boundary and integrity problems emerged. These problems are analyzed, showing that the boundary problems were a product of the conservative viewpoint on the relationship between science and politics, while the integrity problems involved the activation of networks of influence in the awarding of scholarships to study abroad. Finally, the analysis reveals that these problems did not invalidate the Spanish social contract for science.

Magnolol inhibits colonic motility through down-regulation of voltage-sensitive L-type Ca2+ channels of colonic smooth muscle cells in rats.

PubMed

Zhang, Man; Zang, Kai-Hong; Luo, Jia-Lie; Leung, Fung-Ping; Huang, Yu; Lin, Cheng-Yuan; Yang, Zhi-Jun; Lu, Ai-Ping; Tang, Xu-Dong; Xu, Hong-Xi; Sung, Joseph Jao-yiu; Bian, Zhao-Xiang

2013-11-15

This study aimed to investigate the effect of magnolol (5,5'-diallyl-2,2'-biphenyldiol) on contraction in distal colonic segments of rats and the underlying mechanisms. Colonic segments were mounted in organ baths for isometric force measurement. Whole-cell voltage-sensitive L-type Ca(2+) currents were recorded on isolated single colonic smooth muscle cells using patch-clamp technique. The spontaneous contractions and acetylcholine (ACh)- and Bay K 8644-induced contractions were inhibited by magnolol (3-100 μM). In the presence of Bay K8644 (100 nM), magnolol (10-100 μM) inhibited the contraction induced by 10 μM ACh. By contrast, tetrodotoxin (100 nM) and Nώ-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME 100 μM) did not change the inhibitory effect of magnolol (10 μM). In addition, magnolol (3-100 μM) inhibited the L-type Ca(2+) currents. The present results suggest that magnolol inhibits colonic smooth muscle contraction through downregulating L-type Ca(2+) channel activity. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Voltage-clamp analysis of membrane currents and excitation-contraction coupling in a crustacean muscle.

PubMed

Weiss, T; Erxleben, C; Rathmayer, W

2001-01-01

A single fibre preparation from the extensor muscle of a marine isopod crustacean is described which allows the analysis of membrane currents and simultaneously recorded contractions under two-electrode voltage-clamp conditions. We show that there are three main depolarisation-gated currents, two are outward and carried by K+, the third is an inward Ca2+ current, I(Ca). Normally, the K+ currents which can be isolated by using K+ channel blockers, mask I(Ca). I(Ca) activates at potentials more positive than -40 mV, is maximal around 0 mV, and shows strong inactivation at higher depolarisation. Inactivation depends on current rather than voltage. Ba2+, Sr2+ and Mg2+ can substitute for Ca2+. Ba2+ currents are about 80% larger than Ca2+ currents and inactivate little. The properties of I(Ca) characterise it as a high threshold L-type current. The outward current consists primarily of a fast, transient A current, I(K(A)) and a maintained, delayed rectifier current, I(K(V)). In some fibres, a small Ca2+-dependent K+ current is also present. I(K(A)) activates fast at depolarisation above -45 mV, shows pronounced inactivation and is almost completely inactivated at holding potentials more positive than -40 mV. I(K(A)) is half-maximally blocked by 70 microM 4-aminopyridine (4-AP), and 70 mM tetraethylammonium (TEA). I(K(V)) activates more slowly, at about -30 mV, and shows no inactivation. It is half-maximally blocked by 2 mM TEA but rather insensitive to 4-AP. Physiologically, the two K+ currents prevent all-or-nothing action potentials and determine the graded amplitude of active electrical responses and associated contractions. Tension development depends on and is correlated with depolarisation-induced Ca2+ influx mediated by I(Ca). The voltage dependence of peak tension corresponds directly to the voltage dependence of the integrated I(Ca). The threshold potential for contraction is at about -38 mV. Peak tension increases with increasing voltage steps, reaches maximum at around 0 mV, and declines with further depolarisation.

Medicare program; peer review organization contracts: solicitation of statements of interest from in-state organizations--Alaska, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Kentucky, Maine, Nebraska, Nevada, South Carolina, Vermont, and Wyoming--HCFA. Notice.

PubMed

1998-07-29

This notice, in accordance with section 1153(i) of the Social Security Act, gives at least 6 months' advance notice of the expiration dates of contracts with out-of-State Utilization and Quality Control Peer Review Organizations. It also specifies the period of time in which in-State organizations may submit a statement of interest so that they may be eligible to compete for these contracts.

Final Report on the Audit of Subcontract Prices on Firm-Fixed-Price Contracts Awarded to McDonnell Aircraft Company

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-12-03

This is our final report on the audit of Subcontract Prices on Firm-Fixed-Price Contracts Awarded to McDonnell Aircraft Company (MCAIR). The Contract Management Directorate made the audit from October 1989 through June 1990. The objective of the audit was to compare proposed and negotiated subcontract prices and determine reasons for significant variances. We also evaluated applicable internal control procedures. For a 6-month period ending December 1989, MCAIR issued 517 subcontracts valued at $679 million.

SEDSAT

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1998-01-01

Under this contract the Students for the Exploration and Development of Space Satellite number One (SEDSAT-1 or just SEDSAT) was completed and launched on 24-Oct-98. It achieved nominal orbit and activated its transponders after Delta II separation. Telemetry has indicated the internal systems are normal. However, SEDSAT has not responded to subsequent uplink commands. Telemetry has continued to be received allowing evaluation of bus performance and attempts at anomaly resolution. Anomaly resolution will continue during 1999 subsequent to the end of this contract. This final report documents activities under the contract period.

NASA's university program: Active grants and research contracts, fiscal year 1974

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1974-01-01

Each entry includes institution and location, brief description of project, period of performance, principal investigator at institution, NASA technical officer (monitor), sponsoring NASA installation, interagency field of science or engineering classification C.A.S.E. category, grant or contract number, FY 74 obligations, cumulative obligations, and most recent RTOP coding. Entries are arranged alphabetically within state or country. Four cross indices are presented: (1) grant or contract number; (2) C.A.S.E. field or science or engineering; (3) NASA technical officer location; and (4) RTOP code.

Genetics Home Reference: hyperkalemic periodic paralysis

MedlinePlus

... reduce the ability of skeletal muscles to contract, leading to episodes of muscle weakness or paralysis. In 30 to 40 percent of cases, the cause of hyperkalemic periodic paralysis is unknown. Changes in other genes, which have not been identified, ...

An Analysis of the General Services Administration Board of Contract Appeals Bid Protest Decisions and the Effect on Automated Data Processing Equipment/Federal Information Processing Resources Procurements

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-12-01

associated with ADP/FIP protests. Navy and Marine Corps contracting agencies w\\ere contacted to determine their current experience in ADP/’FIP contracting...an emphasis on the GSBCA. A protestor has many options in vhich to "avenge" their wrong. A Contracting Officer can therefore expect a variety of...subject to their exclusive procurement authority. The term ADPE and ADP/FIP will be used somewhat loosely. In most cases, the acronyms include

2001 contract management survey.

PubMed

2001-10-01

For the second year running, hospitals are spending more on clinical outsourcing than on business services. The Eleventh Annual Contract Services Survey shows that, in clinical areas, executives use outsourcing to acquire specialized expertise with cost savings secondary. Reducing costs and FTEs are the primary reasons for outsourcing business operations. Business service contracts are more likely to meet expectations for cost savings. Overall, satisfaction levels are up, but in some areas there's still a lot of room for improvement. This report examines current trends in outsourcing, strategies for the future, satisfaction levels, the decisionmaking process, contract features, and costs.

48 CFR 52.247-66 - Returnable Cylinders.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... loaned without charge to the Government for a period of __ days [Contracting Officer shall insert number of days] (hereafter referred to as loan period) following the day of delivery to the f.o.b. point... beginning with the first day after the loan period expires, to and including the day the cylinders are...

26 CFR 1.46-5 - Qualified progress expenditures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... example, if two ships are contracted for at the same time, each ship is considered separately under this... construction period of that unit. For example, if a manufacturing plant has a normal construction period of two... normal construction period of less than two years, the plant and the equipment do not constitute an...

26 CFR 1.46-5 - Qualified progress expenditures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... example, if two ships are contracted for at the same time, each ship is considered separately under this... construction period of that unit. For example, if a manufacturing plant has a normal construction period of two... normal construction period of less than two years, the plant and the equipment do not constitute an...

17 CFR 100.1 - Delivery period required with respect to certain grains.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 17 Commodity and Securities Exchanges 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Delivery period required with respect to certain grains. 100.1 Section 100.1 Commodity and Securities Exchanges COMMODITY FUTURES... grains. A period of seven business days is required during which contracts for future delivery in the...

ALUMINUM CHLORIDE EFFECT ON Ca2+,Mg(2+)-ATPase ACTIVITY AND DYNAMIC PARAMETERS OF SKELETAL MUSCLE CONTRACTION.

PubMed

Nozdrenko, D M; Abramchuk, O M; Soroca, V M; Miroshnichenko, N S

2015-01-01

We studied enzymatic activity and measured strain-gauge contraction properties of the frog Rana temporaria m. tibialis anterior muscle fascicles during the action of aluminum chloride solution. It was shown that AlCl3 solutions did not affect the dynamic properties of skeletal muscle preparation in concentrations less than 10(-4) M Increasing the concentration of AlCl3 to 10(-2) M induce complete inhibition of muscle contraction. A linear correlation between decrease in Ca2+,Mg(2+)-ATPase activity of sarcoplasmic reticulum and the investigated concentrations range of aluminum chloride was observed. The reduction in the dynamic contraction performance and the decrease Ca2+,Mg(2+)-ATPase activity of the sarcoplasmic reticulum under the effect of the investigated AlCl3 solution were minimal in pre-tetanus period of contraction.

Computer modeling of siRNA knockdown effects indicates an essential role of the Ca2+ channel alpha2delta-1 subunit in cardiac excitation-contraction coupling.

PubMed

Tuluc, Petronel; Kern, Georg; Obermair, Gerald J; Flucher, Bernhard E

2007-06-26

L-type Ca(2+) currents determine the shape of cardiac action potentials (AP) and the magnitude of the myoplasmic Ca(2+) signal, which regulates the contraction force. The auxiliary Ca(2+) channel subunits alpha(2)delta-1 and beta(2) are important regulators of membrane expression and current properties of the cardiac Ca(2+) channel (Ca(V)1.2). However, their role in cardiac excitation-contraction coupling is still elusive. Here we addressed this question by combining siRNA knockdown of the alpha(2)delta-1 subunit in a muscle expression system with simulation of APs and Ca(2+) transients by using a quantitative computer model of ventricular myocytes. Reconstitution of dysgenic muscle cells with Ca(V)1.2 (GFP-alpha(1C)) recapitulates key properties of cardiac excitation-contraction coupling. Concomitant depletion of the alpha(2)delta-1 subunit did not perturb membrane expression or targeting of the pore-forming GFP-alpha(1C) subunit into junctions between the outer membrane and the sarcoplasmic reticulum. However, alpha(2)delta-1 depletion shifted the voltage dependence of Ca(2+) current activation by 9 mV to more positive potentials, and it slowed down activation and inactivation kinetics approximately 2-fold. Computer modeling revealed that the altered voltage dependence and current kinetics exert opposing effects on the function of ventricular myocytes that in total cause a 60% prolongation of the AP and a 2-fold increase of the myoplasmic Ca(2+) concentration during each contraction. Thus, the Ca(2+) channel alpha(2)delta-1 subunit is not essential for normal Ca(2+) channel targeting in muscle but is a key determinant of normal excitation and contraction of cardiac muscle cells, and a reduction of alpha(2)delta-1 function is predicted to severely perturb normal heart function.

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.

Models of supply function equilibrium with applications to the electricity industry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aromi, J. Daniel

Electricity market design requires tools that result in a better understanding of incentives of generators and consumers. Chapter 1 and 2 provide tools and applications of these tools to analyze incentive problems in electricity markets. In chapter 1, models of supply function equilibrium (SFE) with asymmetric bidders are studied. I prove the existence and uniqueness of equilibrium in an asymmetric SFE model. In addition, I propose a simple algorithm to calculate numerically the unique equilibrium. As an application, a model of investment decisions is considered that uses the asymmetric SFE as an input. In this model, firms can invest in different technologies, each characterized by distinct variable and fixed costs. In chapter 2, option contracts are introduced to a supply function equilibrium (SFE) model. The uniqueness of the equilibrium in the spot market is established. Comparative statics results on the effect of option contracts on the equilibrium price are presented. A multi-stage game where option contracts are traded before the spot market stage is considered. When contracts are optimally procured by a central authority, the selected profile of option contracts is such that the spot market price equals marginal cost for any load level resulting in a significant reduction in cost. If load serving entities (LSEs) are price takers, in equilibrium, there is no trade of option contracts. Even when LSEs have market power, the central authority's solution cannot be implemented in equilibrium. In chapter 3, we consider a game in which a buyer must repeatedly procure an input from a set of firms. In our model, the buyer is able to sign long term contracts that establish the likelihood with which the next period contract is awarded to an entrant or the incumbent. We find that the buyer finds it optimal to favor the incumbent, this generates more intense competition between suppliers. In a two period model we are able to completely characterize the optimal mechanism.

Inhibition of agonist-induced smooth muscle contraction by picotamide in the male human lower urinary tract outflow region.

PubMed

Hennenberg, Martin; Tamalunas, Alexander; Wang, Yiming; Keller, Patrick; Schott, Melanie; Strittmatter, Frank; Herlemann, Annika; Yu, Qingfeng; Rutz, Beata; Ciotkowska, Anna; Stief, Christian G; Gratzke, Christian

2017-05-15

Male lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) due to bladder outlet obstruction are characterized by abnormal smooth muscle contractions in the lower urinary tract. Alpha 1 -adrenoceptor antagonists may induce smooth muscle relaxation in the outflow region and represent the current gold standard of medical treatment. However, results may be unsatisfactory or inadequate. Apart from α 1 -adrenoceptor agonists, smooth muscle contraction in the outflow region may be induced by thromboxane A 2 (TXA 2 ), endothelins, or muscarinic receptor agonists. Here, we studied effects of the thromboxane A 2 receptor (TP receptor) antagonist picotamide on contraction in the human male bladder trigone and prostate. Carbachol, the α 1 -adrenoceptor agonist phenylephrine, the thromboxane A 2 analog U46619, and electric field stimulation (EFS) induced concentration- or frequency-dependent contractions of trigone tissues in an organ bath. Picotamide (300µM) inhibited carbachol-, phenylephrine-, U46619-, and EFS-induced contractions. Endothelins 1-3 induced concentration-dependent contractions of prostate tissues, which were inhibited by picotamide. Analyses using real time polymerase chain reaction and antibodies suggested expression of thromboxane A 2 receptors and synthase in trigone smooth muscle cells. Thromboxane B 2 (the stable metabolite of thromboxane A 2 ) was detectable by enzyme immune assay in trigone samples, with most values ranging between 50 and 150pg/mg trigone protein. Picotamide inhibits contractions induced by different stimuli in the human lower urinary tract, including cholinergic, adrenergic, thromboxane A 2 - and endothelin-induced, and neurogenic contractions in different locations of the outflow region. This distinguishes picotamide from current medical treatments for LUTS, and suggests that picotamide may induce urodynamic effects in vivo. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Can grip strength be used as a surrogate marker to monitor recovery from shoulder fatigue?

PubMed

Hawkes, David; Grant, Michael; McMahon, Jessica; Horsley, Ian; Khaiyat, Omid

2018-06-06

Muscular fatigue impacts on normal shoulder function, which is particularly pertinent to throwing athletes. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between grip strength and shoulder muscle fatigue to evaluate the role of grip strength as a surrogate measure for upper limb performance. Twenty healthy participants were recruited. EMG was recorded from 15 shoulder muscles during different fatiguing contractions: an initial baseline recording (Fat-Baseline); after a shoulder exhausting exercise regime (Fat-Exhaustion); and after a 10 min rest period (Fat-Recovery). Grip strength was similarly measured in the same conditions. Grip strength differed significantly across the testing scenarios (p = 0.012-<0.001). Greater fatigue was seen in anterior deltoid, middle deltoid, posterior deltoid and supraspinatus in the Fat-Exhaustion contraction as compared to the Fat-Baseline contraction (p = <0.001-0.043). Greater fatigue was seen during the Fat-Recovery contraction for the trapezius, serratus anterior and biceps brachii as compared to the Fat-Exhaustion contraction (p = 0.008-0.038). Grip strength decreased following an exhausting exercise protocol but recovered to baseline following a rest period. Conversely, EMG indices of fatigue did not recover. Additional fatigue was seen reflecting a reorganisation of movement strategy. Therefore, susceptibility to injury still exists if grip strength alone is used as a barometer of upper limb performance. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

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

Award Fees and Their Relationship to Contract Success

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-06-01

noted that “the National Aeronautics and Space Administration ( NASA ) had been largely credited with successfully instituting formal incentive...contracts since the early 1960s” (p. 223). Further, NASA established the first guidance on CPAF contracts in 1967 with its issuance of the NASA Cost...Regulation, Subcontractor Kickbacks, 48 C.F.R. 3.502-1 (2014). Retrieved from http://www.acquisition., gov /far/current/pdf/FAR.pdf Finley, J. I

48 CFR Appendix J to Chapter 7 - Direct USAID Contracts With a Cooperating Country National and With a Third Country National for...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... current or retired U.S. Civil Service, U.S. Foreign Service, or U.S. military service member, and who is... a result of (i) the contract's terms or (ii) the manner of its administration during performance... the services are not subject either by the contract's terms or by the manner of its administration, to...

48 CFR Appendix J to Chapter 7 - Direct USAID Contracts With a Cooperating Country National and With a Third Country National for...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... current or retired U.S. Civil Service, U.S. Foreign Service, or U.S. military service member, and who is... a result of (i) the contract's terms or (ii) the manner of its administration during performance... the services are not subject either by the contract's terms or by the manner of its administration, to...

48 CFR Appendix J to Chapter 7 - Direct USAID Contracts With a Cooperating Country National and With a Third Country National for...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... current or retired U.S. Civil Service, U.S. Foreign Service, or U.S. military service member, and who is... a result of (i) the contract's terms or (ii) the manner of its administration during performance... the services are not subject either by the contract's terms or by the manner of its administration, to...

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...

Association Between Monetary Deposits and Weight Loss in Online Commitment Contracts

PubMed Central

Lesser, Lenard I.; Thompson, Caroline A.; Luft, Harold S.

2017-01-01

Purpose To examine the characteristics of voluntary online commitment contracts that may be associated with greater weight loss. Design Retrospective analysis of weight loss commitment contracts derived from a company that provides web-based support for personal commitment contracts. Using regression, we analyzed whether percentage weight loss differed between participants who incentivized their contract using monetary deposits and those who did not. Setting Online. Participants Users (N = 3857) who voluntarily signed up online in 2013 for a weight loss contract. Intervention Participants specified their own weight loss goal, time period, and self-reported weekly weight. Deposits were available in the following 3 categories: charity, anticharity (a nonprofit one does not like), or donations made to a friend. Measures Percentage weight loss per week. Analysis Multivariable linear regressions. Results Controlling for several participant and contract characteristics, contracts with anticharity, charity, and friend deposits had greater reported weight loss than nonincentivized contracts. Weight change per week relative to those without deposits was −0.33%, −0.28%, and −0.25% for anti-charity, charity, and friend, respectively (P < 0.001). Contracts without a weight verification method claimed more weight loss than those with verification. Conclusion Voluntary use of commitment contracts may be an effective tool to assist weight loss. Those who choose to use monetary incentives report more weight loss. It is not clear whether this is due to the incentives or higher motivation. PMID:27502832

48 CFR 1830.7002-1 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... GENERAL CONTRACTING REQUIREMENTS COST ACCOUNTING STANDARDS ADMINISTRATION Facilities Capital Employed for.... 97); or (2) The time-weighted average of such rates for each cost accounting period during which the... calculated amount considered invested by the contractor during the cost accounting period to construct...

State Funding of Contract Courses at Community Colleges: The First Year. Analysis Paper No. 824.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

State Univ. of New York, Albany. Office for Community Colleges.

Focusing on the period from September 1981 to September 1982, this report describes issues and activities related to New York State's funding of contract courses at the community colleges of the State University of New York (SUNY). Introductory material notes that since the passage of authorizing legislation, about 45,000 employees of more than…

7 CFR 1410.5 - Eligible persons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

...) In order to be eligible to enter into a CRP contract in accordance with this part, a person must be... eligible land for the full term of the CRP contract period; (2) If an owner of eligible land, must have... land did not acquire such land for the purpose of placing it in the CRP; or (3) If a tenant, the tenant...

Master Contract: San Joaquin Delta College Teachers Association/CTA/NEA and San Joaquin Delta Community College District, July 1987-June 1990.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

San Joaquin Delta Community Coll. District, CA.

The collective bargaining agreement between the San Joaquin Delta Community College District Board of Trustees and the San Joaquin Delta College Teachers Association/California Teachers Association/National Education Association is presented. This contract, covering the period from July 1987 through June 1990, deals with the following topics:…

Final Closeout Report University Research Program in Robotics for Environmental Restoration and Waste Management

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

James S. Tulenko; Carl Crane

2004-08-24

The report covers the 2003-04 contract period, with a retrospective of the 11 years for the contract, from 1993 to 2004. This includes personnel, technical publications and reports, plus research laboratories employed. Specific information is given in eight research areas, reporting on all technology developed and/or deployed by the University of Florida.

Agreement between Peralta Federation of Teachers (AFT/CFT, AFL-CIO) and Peralta Community College District, July 1, 1988-June 30, 1991.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Peralta Community Coll. System, Oakland, CA.

The collective bargaining agreement between the Peralta Community College District and the Peralta Community College Federation of Teachers (PCCFT) is presented. This contract, which applies to College of Alameda, and Feather River, Laney, Merritt, and Vista Colleges, covers the period from July 1, 1988 through June 30, 1991. Contract provisions…

Volcanic Plumes on Io and Mars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Glaze, Lori S.; Senske, David (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

Proxemy research is under contract to NASA to perform science research of volcanic plumes on Mars and Io. This report is submitted in accordance with contract NASW-00013 and contains a summary of activities. In addition to a synopsis of science research conducted, any manuscripts submitted for publication in this time period are also attached. Abstracts to scientific conferences may also be included if appropriate.

Managing Contraction: An Institution Experiences Contraction. Seattle Community College District, Seattle, Washington, U.S.A.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Casey, John W.

This paper presents a historical perspective on the growth of the Seattle Community College District (SCCD) from 1967 to 1980 and the period of retrenchment from 1981 to the present. First. the paper reviews the formation of the SCCD, its organizational structure, goals and objectives, and mission. Next, demographic data are presented to…

The Colleges and the Courts: Faculty and Staff before the Bench. Updating Supplement.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chambers, M. M.

This document is an updating supplement to a 1973 volume of the same title and is intended to cover the various aspects of court action effecting higher education, and particularly the faculty and staff for the period 1973-76. The areas discussed include the inception of contracts; due process in nonrenewal of nontenure contracts and probationary…

The anode mechanism of a thermal argon arc

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Busz-Peuckert, G.; Finkelnburg, W.

1984-01-01

In order to clarify the anode mechanism in freely burning argon arcs, the anode drop was determined by probe measurements in the current intensity range of 10 to 200 A and arc lengths between 2 and 10 mm. Simultaneously, the power input at the anode was determined by measuring the temperature increase in the cooling water, using a thermoelement, and compared to the electrical output at the arc and in the anodic drop area. An anodic contraction was observed in the arc, at low current intensities. The results can be explained in terms of the effects of a cathodic plasma current, and in the contracted arc, in terms of an additional anodic plasma current.

M2 and M3 muscarinic receptors are involved in enteric nerve-mediated contraction of the mouse ileum: Findings obtained with muscarinic-receptor knockout mouse.

PubMed

Takeuchi, Tadayoshi; Tanaka, Keisuke; Nakajima, Hidemitsu; Matsui, Minoru; Azuma, Yasu-Taka

2007-01-01

The involvement of muscarinic receptors in neurogenic responses of the ileum was studied in wild-type and muscarinic-receptor (M-receptor) knockout (KO) mice. Electrical field stimulation to the wild-type mouse ileum induced a biphasic response, a phasic and sustained contraction that was abolished by tetrodotoxin. The sustained contraction was prolonged for an extended period after the termination of electrical field stimulation. The phasic contraction was completely inhibited by atropine. In contrast, the sustained contraction was enhanced by atropine. Ileal strips prepared from M2-receptor KO mice exhibited a phasic contraction similar to that seen in wild-type mice and a sustained contraction that was larger than that in wild-type mice. In M3-receptor KO mice, the phasic contraction was smaller than that observed in wild-type mice. Acetylcholine exogenously administrated induced concentration-dependent contractions in strips isolated from wild-type, M2- and M3-receptor KO mice. However, contractions in M3-receptor KO mice shifted to the right. The sustained contraction was inhibited by capsaicin and neurokinin NK2 receptor antagonist, suggesting that it is mediated by substance P (SP). SP-induced contraction of M2-receptor KO mice did not differ from that of wild-type mice. SP immunoreactivity was located in enteric neurons, colocalized with M2 receptor immunoreactivity. These results suggest that atropine-sensitive phasic contraction is mainly mediated via the M3 receptor, and SP-mediated sustained contraction is negatively regulated by the M2 receptor at a presynaptic level.

A computational model of the ionic currents, Ca2+ dynamics and action potentials underlying contraction of isolated uterine smooth muscle.

PubMed

Tong, Wing-Chiu; Choi, Cecilia Y; Kharche, Sanjay; Karche, Sanjay; Holden, Arun V; Zhang, Henggui; Taggart, Michael J

2011-04-29

Uterine contractions during labor are discretely regulated by rhythmic action potentials (AP) of varying duration and form that serve to determine calcium-dependent force production. We have employed a computational biology approach to develop a fuller understanding of the complexity of excitation-contraction (E-C) coupling of uterine smooth muscle cells (USMC). Our overall aim is to establish a mathematical platform of sufficient biophysical detail to quantitatively describe known uterine E-C coupling parameters and thereby inform future empirical investigations of physiological and pathophysiological mechanisms governing normal and dysfunctional labors. From published and unpublished data we construct mathematical models for fourteen ionic currents of USMCs: Ca2+ currents (L- and T-type), Na+ current, an hyperpolarization-activated current, three voltage-gated K+ currents, two Ca2+-activated K+ current, Ca2+-activated Cl current, non-specific cation current, Na+-Ca2+ exchanger, Na+-K+ pump and background current. The magnitudes and kinetics of each current system in a spindle shaped single cell with a specified surface area:volume ratio is described by differential equations, in terms of maximal conductances, electrochemical gradient, voltage-dependent activation/inactivation gating variables and temporal changes in intracellular Ca2+ computed from known Ca2+ fluxes. These quantifications are validated by the reconstruction of the individual experimental ionic currents obtained under voltage-clamp. Phasic contraction is modeled in relation to the time constant of changing [Ca2+]i. This integrated model is validated by its reconstruction of the different USMC AP configurations (spikes, plateau and bursts of spikes), the change from bursting to plateau type AP produced by estradiol and of simultaneous experimental recordings of spontaneous AP, [Ca2+]i and phasic force. In summary, our advanced mathematical model provides a powerful tool to investigate the physiological ionic mechanisms underlying the genesis of uterine electrical E-C coupling of labor and parturition. This will furnish the evolution of descriptive and predictive quantitative models of myometrial electrogenesis at the whole cell and tissue levels.

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).

A Discrete Electromechanical Model for Human Cardiac Tissue: Effects of Stretch-Activated Currents and Stretch Conditions on Restitution Properties and Spiral Wave Dynamics

PubMed Central

Weise, Louis D.; Panfilov, Alexander V.

2013-01-01

We introduce an electromechanical model for human cardiac tissue which couples a biophysical model of cardiac excitation (Tusscher, Noble, Noble, Panfilov, 2006) and tension development (adjusted Niederer, Hunter, Smith, 2006 model) with a discrete elastic mass-lattice model. The equations for the excitation processes are solved with a finite difference approach, and the equations of the mass-lattice model are solved using Verlet integration. This allows the coupled problem to be solved with high numerical resolution. Passive mechanical properties of the mass-lattice model are described by a generalized Hooke's law for finite deformations (Seth material). Active mechanical contraction is initiated by changes of the intracellular calcium concentration, which is a variable of the electrical model. Mechanical deformation feeds back on the electrophysiology via stretch-activated ion channels whose conductivity is controlled by the local stretch of the medium. We apply the model to study how stretch-activated currents affect the action potential shape, restitution properties, and dynamics of spiral waves, under constant stretch, and dynamic stretch caused by active mechanical contraction. We find that stretch conditions substantially affect these properties via stretch-activated currents. In constantly stretched medium, we observe a substantial decrease in conduction velocity, and an increase of action potential duration; whereas, with dynamic stretch, action potential duration is increased only slightly, and the conduction velocity restitution curve becomes biphasic. Moreover, in constantly stretched medium, we find an increase of the core size and period of a spiral wave, but no change in rotation dynamics; in contrast, in the dynamically stretching medium, we observe spiral drift. Our results may be important to understand how altered stretch conditions affect the heart's functioning. PMID:23527160

A discrete electromechanical model for human cardiac tissue: effects of stretch-activated currents and stretch conditions on restitution properties and spiral wave dynamics.

PubMed

Weise, Louis D; Panfilov, Alexander V

2013-01-01

We introduce an electromechanical model for human cardiac tissue which couples a biophysical model of cardiac excitation (Tusscher, Noble, Noble, Panfilov, 2006) and tension development (adjusted Niederer, Hunter, Smith, 2006 model) with a discrete elastic mass-lattice model. The equations for the excitation processes are solved with a finite difference approach, and the equations of the mass-lattice model are solved using Verlet integration. This allows the coupled problem to be solved with high numerical resolution. Passive mechanical properties of the mass-lattice model are described by a generalized Hooke's law for finite deformations (Seth material). Active mechanical contraction is initiated by changes of the intracellular calcium concentration, which is a variable of the electrical model. Mechanical deformation feeds back on the electrophysiology via stretch-activated ion channels whose conductivity is controlled by the local stretch of the medium. We apply the model to study how stretch-activated currents affect the action potential shape, restitution properties, and dynamics of spiral waves, under constant stretch, and dynamic stretch caused by active mechanical contraction. We find that stretch conditions substantially affect these properties via stretch-activated currents. In constantly stretched medium, we observe a substantial decrease in conduction velocity, and an increase of action potential duration; whereas, with dynamic stretch, action potential duration is increased only slightly, and the conduction velocity restitution curve becomes biphasic. Moreover, in constantly stretched medium, we find an increase of the core size and period of a spiral wave, but no change in rotation dynamics; in contrast, in the dynamically stretching medium, we observe spiral drift. Our results may be important to understand how altered stretch conditions affect the heart's functioning.

21 CFR 516.141 - Qualified expert panels.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... funding from the requestor through a contract or research grant (either directly or indirectly through...), including for each the following: Name of the firm, topic/issue, amount received, date initiated. (iv) Contracts, grants, Cooperation Research and Development Agreement (CRADAs) (current or under negotiation...

21 CFR 516.141 - Qualified expert panels.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... funding from the requestor through a contract or research grant (either directly or indirectly through...), including for each the following: Name of the firm, topic/issue, amount received, date initiated. (iv) Contracts, grants, Cooperation Research and Development Agreement (CRADAs) (current or under negotiation...

21 CFR 516.141 - Qualified expert panels.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... funding from the requestor through a contract or research grant (either directly or indirectly through...), including for each the following: Name of the firm, topic/issue, amount received, date initiated. (iv) Contracts, grants, Cooperation Research and Development Agreement (CRADAs) (current or under negotiation...

25 CFR 900.255 - What obligation does the Indian tribe or tribal organization have with respect to returning...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... HEALTH SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES CONTRACTS UNDER THE INDIAN SELF-DETERMINATION AND... provided under the contract which has a per item current fair market value, less the cost of improvements...

25 CFR 900.255 - What obligation does the Indian tribe or tribal organization have with respect to returning...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... HEALTH SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES CONTRACTS UNDER THE INDIAN SELF-DETERMINATION AND... provided under the contract which has a per item current fair market value, less the cost of improvements...

25 CFR 900.255 - What obligation does the Indian tribe or tribal organization have with respect to returning...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... HEALTH SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES CONTRACTS UNDER THE INDIAN SELF-DETERMINATION AND... provided under the contract which has a per item current fair market value, less the cost of improvements...

25 CFR 900.255 - What obligation does the Indian tribe or tribal organization have with respect to returning...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... HEALTH SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES CONTRACTS UNDER THE INDIAN SELF-DETERMINATION AND... provided under the contract which has a per item current fair market value, less the cost of improvements...

25 CFR 900.255 - What obligation does the Indian tribe or tribal organization have with respect to returning...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... HEALTH SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES CONTRACTS UNDER THE INDIAN SELF-DETERMINATION AND... provided under the contract which has a per item current fair market value, less the cost of improvements...

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

76 FR 34281 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC; Notice of Filing of Proposed Rule...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-06-13

...''). The specified time period will commence for an option when a transaction occurs in any series in such... contracts executed among all series during the specified time period that represents an issue percentage... executed among all series during the specified time period that represents an issue percentage equal to the...

17 CFR 151.5 - Bona fide hedging and other exemptions for Referenced Contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... or anticipated unfilled storage capacity owned or leased by the same person during the period of... representation shall be retained by the parties to the swap for a period of at least two years following the... representation for a period of at least two years following the expiration of the swap. (j) Financial distress...

17 CFR 151.5 - Bona fide hedging and other exemptions for Referenced Contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... or anticipated unfilled storage capacity owned or leased by the same person during the period of... representation shall be retained by the parties to the swap for a period of at least two years following the... representation for a period of at least two years following the expiration of the swap. (j) Financial distress...

17 CFR 151.5 - Bona fide hedging and other exemptions for Referenced Contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... or anticipated unfilled storage capacity owned or leased by the same person during the period of... representation shall be retained by the parties to the swap for a period of at least two years following the... representation for a period of at least two years following the expiration of the swap. (j) Financial distress...

25 CFR 900.17 - Can the statutory 90-day period be extended?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 25 Indians 2 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Can the statutory 90-day period be extended? 900.17 Section 900.17 Indians BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR, AND INDIAN HEALTH SERVICE... ASSISTANCE ACT Review and Approval of Contract Proposals § 900.17 Can the statutory 90-day period be extended...

42 CFR 417.576 - Final settlement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... end of each contract period, unless CMS extends the period for good cause shown by the HMO or CMP. (2... by common ownership or control; and (B) For reports for cost-reporting periods that begin on or after... CMP or related to the HMO or CMP by common ownership or control and that provides services to the HMO...

76 FR 44776 - Provisions Common to Registered Entities

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-07-27

... organizations (``SIDCOs''), and stay the certifications and the approval review periods of novel derivative... periods for novel derivative products subject to jurisdictional determinations by the Commission or the... conditions adopted by comparable contracts.'' In OCC's view, novel products, by their nature, contain...

On the role of environmental corruption in healthcare infrastructures: An empirical assessment for Italy using DEA with truncated regression approach.

PubMed

Cavalieri, Marina; Guccio, Calogero; Rizzo, Ilde

2017-05-01

This paper investigates empirically whether the institutional features of the contracting authority as well as the level of 'environmental' corruption in the area where the work is localised affect the efficient execution of public contracts for healthcare infrastructures. A two-stage Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) is carried out based on a sample of Italian public contracts for healthcare infrastructures during the period 2000-2005. First, a smoothed bootstrapped DEA estimator is used to assess the relative efficiency in the implementation of each single infrastructure contract. Second, the determinants of the efficiency scores variability are considered, paying special attention to the effect exerted by 'environmental' corruption on different types of contracting authorities. Our results show that the performance of the contracts for healthcare infrastructures is significantly affected by 'environmental' corruption. Furthermore, healthcare contracting authorities are, on average, less efficient and the negative effect of corruption on efficiency is greater for this type of public procurers. The policy recommendation coming out of the study is to rely on 'qualified' contracting authorities since not all the public bodies have the necessary expertise to carry on public contracts for healthcare infrastructures efficiently. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

78 FR 71690 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC; Notice of Filing and Immediate...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-11-29

... of up to 39,999 contracts per day in a month. Tier 2 Participant adds NOM $0.30 Market Maker... symbols BAC, Pilot Options of GLD, IWM, QQQ 100,000 or more and VXX or $0.40 contracts per day in in SPY a... per day in a month. Tier 2 currently pays a $0.30 per contract rebate to Participants that add NOM...

The Effect of Varying Biting Position on Relative Jaw Muscle EMG activity

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-09-01

with muscle force is the key to 13 this approach as it allows inference of muscle contraction activity from EMG data. This relationship has been the...5! 15 LITERATURE REVIEW Introduction: The study of the physiology of bite force, muscle contraction force, joint reaction force and the lever system...Currently, the best method of indirectly observing muscle contraction activity is through electromyography. Although there appears to be a time delay

The Structure and Dynamics of the Solar Corona

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mikic, Zoran

2000-01-01

This report covers technical progress during the third year of the NASA Space Physics Theory contract "The Structure and Dynamics of the Solar Corona," between NASA and Science Applications International Corporation, and covers the period June 16, 1998 to August 15, 1999. This is also the final report for this contract. Under this contract SAIC, the University of California, Irvine (UCI), and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), have conducted research into theoretical modeling of active regions, the solar corona, and the inner heliosphere, using the MHD model. During the three-year duration of this contract we have published 49 articles in the scientific literature. These publications are listed in Section 3 of this report. In the Appendix we have attached reprints of selected articles. We summarize our progress during the third year of the contract. Full descriptions of our work can be found in the cited publications, a few of which are attached to this report.

Theory and Modeling in Support of Tether

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chang, C. L.; Bergeron, G.; Drobot, A. D.; Papadopoulos, K.; Riyopoulos, S.; Szuszczewicz, E.

1999-01-01

This final report summarizes the work performed by SAIC's Applied Physics Operation on the modeling and support of Tethered Satellite System missions (TSS-1 and TSS-1R). The SAIC team, known to be Theory and Modeling in Support of Tether (TMST) investigation, was one of the original twelve teams selected in July, 1985 for the first TSS mission. The accomplishments described in this report cover the period December 19, 1985 to September 31, 1999 and are the result of a continuous effort aimed at supporting the TSS missions in the following major areas. During the contract period, the SAIC's TMST investigation acted to: Participate in the planning and the execution on both of the TSS missions; Provide scientific understanding on the issues involved in the electrodynamic tether system operation prior to the TSS missions; Predict ionospheric conditions encountered during the re-flight mission (TSS-lR) based on realtime global ionosounde data; Perform post mission analyses to enhance our understanding on the TSS results. Specifically, we have 1) constructed and improved current collection models and enhanced our understanding on the current-voltage data; 2) investigated the effects of neutral gas in the current collection processes; 3) conducted laboratory experiments to study the discharge phenomena during and after tether-break; and 4) perform numerical simulations to understand data collected by plasma instruments SPES onboard the TSS satellite; Design and produce multi-media CD that highlights TSS mission achievements and convey the knowledge of the tether technology to the general public. Along with discussions of this work, a list of publications and presentations derived from the TMST investigation spanning the reporting period is compiled.

Studies in upper and lower atmosphere coupling

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chiu, Y. T.; Rice, C. J.; Sharp, L. R.

1979-01-01

The theoretical and data-analytic work on upper and lower atmosphere coupling performed under a NASA Headquarters contract during the period April 1978 to March 1979 are summarized. As such, this report is primarily devoted to an overview of various studies published and to be published under this contract. Individual study reports are collected as exhibits. Work performed under the subject contract are in the following four areas of upper-lower atmosphere coupling: (1) Magnetosphere-ionosphere electrodynamic coupling in the aurora; (2) Troposphere-thermosphere coupling; (3) Ionosphere-neutral-atmosphere coupling; and (4) Planetary wave dynamics in the middle atmosphere.

The financial experience of hospitals with HMO contracts: evidence from Florida.

PubMed

Young, Gary J; Burgess, James F; Desai, Kamal R; Valley, Danielle

2002-01-01

In this paper, we report results from the first study to systematically examine trends in the financial experience of hospitals with health maintenance organization (HMO) contracts. The longitudinal analysis (1990 through 1997) focused on hospitals in Florida. Hospital operating margins for HMO contracts grew tighter toward the end of the study period when the median margin was less than 1%. Teaching hospitals had operating margins that on average were below that of their nonteaching counterparts. The continued growth of HMOs and other managed care entities may have important implications for the future financial viability of U.S. hospitals.

Differences in muscle sympathetic nerve response to isometric exercise in different muscle groups.

PubMed

Saito, M

1995-01-01

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of muscle fibre composition on muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) in response to isometric exercise. The MSNA, recorded from the tibial nerve by a microneurographic technique during contraction and following arterial occlusion, was compared in three different muscle groups: the forearm (handgrip), anterior tibialis (foot dorsal contraction), and soleus muscles (foot plantar contraction) contracted separately at intensities of 20%, 33% and 50% of the maximal voluntary force. The increases in MSNA relative to control levels during contraction and occlusion were significant at all contracting forces for handgrip and at 33% and 50% of maximal for dorsal contraction, but there were no significant changes, except during exercise at 50%, for plantar contraction. The size of the MSNA response correlated with the contraction force in all muscle groups. Pooling data for all contraction forces, there were different MSNA responses among muscle groups in contraction forces (P = 0.0001, two-way analysis of variance), and occlusion periods (P = 0.0001). The MSNA increases were in the following order of magnitude: handgrip, dorsal, and plantar contractions. The order of the fibre type composition in these three muscles is from equal numbers of types I and II fibres in the forearm to increasing number of type I fibres in the leg muscles. The different MSNA responses to the contraction of different muscle groups observed may have been due in part to muscle metaboreflex intensity influenced by their metabolic capacity which is related to by their metabolic capacity which is related to the fibre type.

78 FR 21501 - Proposed Collection; Comment Request for Regulation Project

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-04-10

... 1995, Public Law 104-13 (44 U.S.C. 3506(c)(2)(A)). Currently, the IRS is soliciting comments concerning notional principal contracts; contingent nonperiodic payments. DATES: Written comments should be received... . SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Title: Notional Principal Contracts; Contingent Nonperiodic Payments. OMB Number...

75 FR 5850 - Proposed Collection; Comment Request for REG-166012-02

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-02-04

... 1995, Public Law 104-13 (44 U.S.C. 3506(c)(2)(A)). Currently, the IRS is soliciting comments concerning REG-166012-02, Notional Principal Contracts; Contingent Nonperiodic Payments. DATES: Written [email protected] . SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Title: Notional Principal Contracts; Contingent Nonperiodic...

Exploring Managerial Implications of Current DoD Contracting Trends

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-05-15

Shyu ASA(ALT), AAE, & SPE 7 Heads of Contracting Activity ( HCAs ) across the 7 Army buying commands Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army...on commodity / portfolio Chair: DASA(P) Members: DASA(P) Deputy (Alternate-Chair) Senior Services Manager HCAs & PARCs / Alternates Small Business

Progress Report for the Joint Services Electronics Program

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-06-30

31, 1988. The current JSEP contract that began on October 1, 1986. contains 22 work units (Unit 3 of the new contract was withdrawn and Unit 6 S, has...Professor Bang-Sup Song has joined the VLSI Circuits Group. Although none of these young faculty is currently receiving direct support from the JSEP...deposition. (2) We have in’,.estgated the use of lc\\%-energy primary and secondary accelerated-ion doping during MBE * grov tn to demonstrate increa-es in

Army Acquisition and Contracting Personnel Requirements: How are the Army’s Current Recruitment, Development and Retention Programs Meeting Current and Future Personnel Requirements?

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-09-01

Contracting Center SEEP Student Educational Employment Program SAP Simplified Acquisition Procedures SDDC Surface Deployment and Distribution...personnel is more decentralized in DoD than it is for the uniformed military, and civilian employment levels are more driven by operating budgets...private sector recruiting efforts and make it easier to apply for DoD acquisition positions 26 5. Maximize use of the Student Educational Employment

Preliminary Evidence That Excitatory Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Extends Time to Task Failure of a Sustained, Submaximal Muscular Contraction in Older Adults.

PubMed

Oki, Kentaro; Mahato, Niladri K; Nakazawa, Masato; Amano, Shinichi; France, Christopher R; Russ, David W; Clark, Brian C

2016-08-01

Decreased cortical excitability has been proposed as a potential mechanism underlying task failure during sustained muscular contractions, and cortical excitability may decrease with old age. We tested the hypothesis that transcranial direct current stimulation, which has been reported to raise cortical excitability, would prolong the time to task failure during a sustained muscular contraction in older adults. Thirteen older adults (68.3±2.0 years; eight women and five men) performed isometric, elbow flexions to failure while receiving sham or anodal transcranial direct current stimulation. Order of stimulation was randomized, and the subjects and investigators were blinded to condition. Time to task failure was measured alongside selected psychological indices of perceived exertion and affect. Anodal transcranial direct current stimulation prolonged mean time to task failure by approximately 15% (16.9±2.2 vs 14.7±1.8 minutes) and slowed the rate of increase in rating of perceived exertion (0.29±0.03 vs 0.31±0.03) relative to the sham condition. These preliminary findings suggest that anodal transcranial direct current stimulation enhances time to task failure of a sustained, submaximal contraction in older adults by potentially increasing cortical excitability and/or influencing the perception of exertion. These results raise the question of whether interventions that acutely increase cortical excitability could enhance physical function and/or exercise-induced adaptations in older adults. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Gerontological Society of America. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Preliminary design of 1 kW bipolar Ni-MH battery for LEO-satellite application

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

Cole, J.H.; Reisner, D.E.; Klein, M.G.

1996-12-31

Electro Energy, Inc. (EEI) is developing a bipolar nickel-metal hydride rechargeable battery based upon the use of stackable wafer cells. The key to viable bipolar operation has been this unique modular (unitized) approach. The patented unit wafer-cell construct exploits the chemical and thermal properties of a proprietary electrically conductive plastic film. Characteristic of bipolar batteries, current flows across the cell interfaces-perpendicular to the electrode plane. EEI has recently contracted with NASA Lewis Research Center (LeRC) to develop an optimized design 1 kW flightweight battery, for low-earth-orbit (LEO) satellite applications, over a 4-year period with a deliverable flightweight design package. Themore » contract includes an option for EEI to deliver up to three flight quality batteries in an 18-month follow-on program. NASA LeRC has promulgated that the program steps include the design, fabrication, and evaluation of four evolutionary stages of the final battery design which have been designated Preliminary, Improved, Optimized, and Flightweight Design. Initial results from the Preliminary Stage are presented including a 1 kW battery design, thermal design, parameter study, and component development in subscale bipolar batteries.« less

Collegiality and commerce: The culture of consideration amongst engineers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nugent, Paul David

This study is a participant observation ethnography of engineering relationships at a defense contracting plant that specializes in the design and manufacture of launch control systems for nuclear submarines. "Consideration" is presented as a unique mode of interaction enabling resource exchange and pivotal in developing and strengthening work relationships. Consideration differs from other modes of exchange such as markets, gift-giving, and charity primarily in that the bestowal of the resource involves little sacrifice. The manner in which consideration is enacted by the engineers, the structural and cultural conditions supporting consideration, and the social and economic consequences of consideration are presented. From these findings it is concluded that consideration is a unique form of economic exchange embedded in concrete relationships that forces us to rethink and extend current conceptualizations of trust, networks, social capital, and friendship in the workplace. The data for the analysis were drawn from twenty interviews and fieldnotes collected and transcribed over a twelve month period. Quotations from the interviews and exerpts from the fieldnotes are included to illustrate claims being made in the analysis as well as to familiarize the reader with the culture developed by engineers and managers in a defense contracting plant.

The Berry Amendment: Requiring Defense Procurement to Come from Domestic Sources

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-02-24

domestic source restrictions that prohibit DOD from acquiring food, clothing (including military uniforms), fabrics (including ballistic fibers...the procurement of American flags, footwear for enlisted service members, contracts for textiles and clothing , and periodic audits by the Inspector...and enforcement, and other requirements relating to DOD’s contracting for textiles, clothing , and athletic footwear. P.L. 113-66, the NDAA for FY2014

Principal-agent relationships in general practice: the first wave of English Personal Medical Services pilot contracts.

PubMed

Sheaff, R; Lloyd-Kendall, A

2000-07-01

To investigate how far English National Health Service (NHS) Personal Medical Services (PMS) contracts embody a principal-agent relationship between health authorities (HAs) and primary health care providers, especially, but not exclusively, general practices involved in the first wave (1998) of PMS pilot projects; and to consider the implications for relational and classical theories of contract. Content analysis of 71 first-wave PMS contracts. Most PMS contracts reflect current English NHS policy priorities, but few institute mechanisms to ensure that providers realise these objectives. Although PMS contracts have some classical characteristics, relational characteristics are more evident. Some characteristics match neither the classical nor the relational model. First-wave PMS contracts do not appear to embody a strong principal-agent relationship between HAs and primary health care providers. This finding offers little support for the relevance of classical theories of contract, but also implies that relational theories of contract need to be revised for quasi-market settings. Future PMS contracts will need to focus more on evidence-based processes of primary care, health outputs and patient satisfaction and less upon service inputs. PMS contracts will also need to be longer-term contracts in order to promote the 'institutional embedding' of independent general practice in the wider management systems of the NHS.

Wound healing activity of Sida cordifolia Linn. in rats

PubMed Central

Pawar, Rajesh S.; Chaurasiya, Pradeep K.; Rajak, Harish; Singour, Pradeep K.; Toppo, Fedelic Ashish; Jain, Ankit

2013-01-01

Introduction: The present study provides a scientific evaluation for the wound healing potential of ethanolic (EtOH) extract of Sida cordifolia Linn. (SCL) plant. Materials and Methods: Excision, incision and burn wounds were inflicted upon three groups of six rats each. Group I was assigned as control (ointment base). Group II was treated with 10% EtOH extract ointment. Group III was treated with standard silver sulfadiazine (0.01%) cream. The parameters observed were percentage of wound contraction, epithelialization period, hydroxyproline content, tensile strength including histopathological studies. Result: It was noted that the effect produced by the ethanolic extract of SCL ointment showed significant (P < 0.01) healing in all wound models when compared with the control group. All parameters such as wound contraction, epithelialization period, hydroxyproline content, tensile strength and histopathological studies showed significant (P < 0.01) changes when compared with the control. Conclusion: The ethanolic extract ointment of SCL effectively stimulates wound contraction; increases tensile strength of excision, incision and burn wounds. PMID:24130382

EMG parameters and EEG α Index change at fatigue period during different types of muscle contraction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Li; Zhou, Bin; Song, Gaoqing

2010-10-01

The purpose of this study is to measure and analyze the characteristics in change of EMG and EEG parameters at muscle fatigue period in participants with different exercise capacity. Twenty participants took part in the tests. They were divided into two groups, Group A (constant exerciser) and Group B (seldom-exerciser). MVC dynamic and 1/3 isometric exercises were performed; EMG and EEG signals were recorded synchronously during different type of muscle contraction. Results indicated that values of MVC, RMS and IEMG in Group A were greater than Group B, but isometric exercise time was shorter than the time of dynamic exercise although its intensity was light. Turning point of IEMG and α Index occurred synchronously during constant muscle contraction of isometric or dynamic exercise. It is concluded that IEMG turning point may be an indication to justify muscle fatigue. Synchronization of EEG and EMG reflects its common characteristics on its bio-electric change.

EMG parameters and EEG α Index change at fatigue period during different types of muscle contraction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Li; Zhou, Bin; Song, Gaoqing

2011-03-01

The purpose of this study is to measure and analyze the characteristics in change of EMG and EEG parameters at muscle fatigue period in participants with different exercise capacity. Twenty participants took part in the tests. They were divided into two groups, Group A (constant exerciser) and Group B (seldom-exerciser). MVC dynamic and 1/3 isometric exercises were performed; EMG and EEG signals were recorded synchronously during different type of muscle contraction. Results indicated that values of MVC, RMS and IEMG in Group A were greater than Group B, but isometric exercise time was shorter than the time of dynamic exercise although its intensity was light. Turning point of IEMG and α Index occurred synchronously during constant muscle contraction of isometric or dynamic exercise. It is concluded that IEMG turning point may be an indication to justify muscle fatigue. Synchronization of EEG and EMG reflects its common characteristics on its bio-electric change.

Advanced teleprocessing systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kleinrock, L.; Gerla, M.

1983-09-01

This Semi-Annual Technical Report covers research carried out by the Advanced Teleprocessing Systems Group at UCLA under DARPA Contract No. MDA 903-82-C-0064 covering the period from April 1, 1983 to September 30, 1983. This contract has three primary designated research areas: packet radio systems, resource sharing and allocation, and distributed processing and control. This report contains the abstracts of the publications which summarize our research results in those areas during this semi-annual period, followed by the main body of the report which consists of the Ph.D. dissertation by H. Richard Gail, "On the Optimization of Computer Network Power', conducted under the supervision of Professor Leonard Kleinrock (Principal Investigator for this contract). It addresses the tradeoff between throughput and delay involving the selection of a suitable operating point for a computer network. This tradeoff is studied through the maximization of various throughput-delay performance measures, all known as power. The models analyzed for the most part are those for a terrestrial wire network.

Anisotropy of human muscle via non invasive impedance measurements. Frequency dependence of the impedance changes during isometric contractions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kashuri, Hektor

In this thesis we present non invasive muscle impedance measurements using rotatable probes extending the work done by Aaron et al. (1997) by measuring not only the real part of the impedance but the imaginary part as well. The results reveal orientations of underlying muscle fibers via minima in resistance and reactance versus angle curves, suggesting this method as potentially useful for studying muscle properties in clinical and physiological research. Calculations of the current distribution for a slab of material with anisotropic conductivity show that the current distribution depends strongly on the separation of two current electrodes and as well as on its conducting anisotropy. Forearm muscle impedance measurements at 50 kHz done by Shiffman et al. (2003) had shown that both resistance (R) and reactance (X) increase during isometric contraction. We have extended these measurements in the 3 to 100 kHz range and we found that resistance (R) and reactance (X) both increase and their changes increased or decreased at frequency dependent rates. Analysis based on circuit models of changes in R and X during the short contraction pulses showed that the extra cellular fluid resistance increased by 3.9 +/- 1.4 %, while the capacitance increased by 5.6 +/- 2 %. For long contraction pulses at very low frequencies: (1) there was practically no change in R during contraction, which implies that these changes are due to cellular membrane or intracellular effects with the extra cellular water component not participating, and (2) in post contraction stage there were no morphological changes which means that drifts in R can only be due to physiological changes. Following Shiffman et al. (2003) we measured impedance changes of R and X during a triangular shaped pulse of force generated via isometric forearm muscle contraction at 50 kHz. We measured these changes in 3-100 kHz frequency range for a stair case pulse of forces and the results showed that they are frequency dependent. Analysis based on circuit models suggest that the increase of isometric forearm muscle contraction is accompanied with both extra and intra cellular effects. The decrease following it is accompanied with changes in the extra cellular components and with intracellular elements remaining at the values they have at the maximum contraction force.

24 CFR 203.269 - Method of payment of periodic MIP.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MORTGAGE AND LOAN INSURANCE PROGRAMS UNDER NATIONAL HOUSING ACT AND OTHER AUTHORITIES SINGLE FAMILY MORTGAGE INSURANCE Contract Rights and Obligations Mortgage Insurance Premiums..., that periodic MIP be remitted electronically. [60 FR 34138, June 30, 1995] Open-end Insurance Charges...

24 CFR 203.269 - Method of payment of periodic MIP.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MORTGAGE AND LOAN INSURANCE PROGRAMS UNDER NATIONAL HOUSING ACT AND OTHER AUTHORITIES SINGLE FAMILY MORTGAGE INSURANCE Contract Rights and Obligations Mortgage Insurance Premiums..., that periodic MIP be remitted electronically. [60 FR 34138, June 30, 1995] Open-end Insurance Charges...

24 CFR 203.474 - Maximum claim period.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 2 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Maximum claim period. 203.474 Section 203.474 Housing and Urban Development Regulations Relating to Housing and Urban Development... SINGLE FAMILY MORTGAGE INSURANCE Contract Rights and Obligations Rehabilitation Loans § 203.474 Maximum...

Projected asymmetric response of Adélie penguins to Antarctic climate change

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cimino, Megan A.; Lynch, Heather J.; Saba, Vincent S.; Oliver, Matthew J.

2016-06-01

The contribution of climate change to shifts in a species’ geographic distribution is a critical and often unresolved ecological question. Climate change in Antarctica is asymmetric, with cooling in parts of the continent and warming along the West Antarctic Peninsula (WAP). The Adélie penguin (Pygoscelis adeliae) is a circumpolar meso-predator exposed to the full range of Antarctic climate and is undergoing dramatic population shifts coincident with climate change. We used true presence-absence data on Adélie penguin breeding colonies to estimate past and future changes in habitat suitability during the chick-rearing period based on historic satellite observations and future climate model projections. During the contemporary period, declining Adélie penguin populations experienced more years with warm sea surface temperature compared to populations that are increasing. Based on this relationship, we project that one-third of current Adélie penguin colonies, representing ~20% of their current population, may be in decline by 2060. However, climate model projections suggest refugia may exist in continental Antarctica beyond 2099, buffering species-wide declines. Climate change impacts on penguins in the Antarctic will likely be highly site specific based on regional climate trends, and a southward contraction in the range of Adélie penguins is likely over the next century.

Computational modeling of inhibition of voltage-gated Ca channels: identification of different effects on uterine and cardiac action potentials.

PubMed

Tong, Wing-Chiu; Ghouri, Iffath; Taggart, Michael J

2014-01-01

The uterus and heart share the important physiological feature whereby contractile activation of the muscle tissue is regulated by the generation of periodic, spontaneous electrical action potentials (APs). Preterm birth arising from premature uterine contractions is a major complication of pregnancy and there remains a need to pursue avenues of research that facilitate the use of drugs, tocolytics, to limit these inappropriate contractions without deleterious actions on cardiac electrical excitation. A novel approach is to make use of mathematical models of uterine and cardiac APs, which incorporate many ionic currents contributing to the AP forms, and test the cell-specific responses to interventions. We have used three such models-of uterine smooth muscle cells (USMC), cardiac sinoatrial node cells (SAN), and ventricular cells-to investigate the relative effects of reducing two important voltage-gated Ca currents-the L-type (ICaL) and T-type (ICaT) Ca currents. Reduction of ICaL (10%) alone, or ICaT (40%) alone, blunted USMC APs with little effect on ventricular APs and only mild effects on SAN activity. Larger reductions in either current further attenuated the USMC APs but with also greater effects on SAN APs. Encouragingly, a combination of ICaL and ICaT reduction did blunt USMC APs as intended with little detriment to APs of either cardiac cell type. Subsequent overlapping maps of ICaL and ICaT inhibition profiles from each model revealed a range of combined reductions of ICaL and ICaT over which an appreciable diminution of USMC APs could be achieved with no deleterious action on cardiac SAN or ventricular APs. This novel approach illustrates the potential for computational biology to inform us of possible uterine and cardiac cell-specific mechanisms. Incorporating such computational approaches in future studies directed at designing new, or repurposing existing, tocolytics will be beneficial for establishing a desired uterine specificity of action.

Training Effects of Alternated and Pulsed Currents on the Quadriceps Muscles of Athletes.

PubMed

Oliveira, Pedro; Modesto, Karenina Arrais Guida; Bottaro, Martim; Babault, Nicolas; Durigan, João Luiz Quagliotti

2018-05-22

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of 6 weeks training with different neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) currents (medium alternated and low-frequency pulsed current) on muscle architecture and neuromuscular performance of competitive athletes. A double-blind controlled and randomized experimental study was carried out with 33 athletes (22.2±2.6 yrs, 74.7±9.8 kg, 176.8±6.0 cm), divided into 3 groups: mid-frequency current (MF, n=12), pulsed current (PC, n=11) and the control group (CG, n=10). Quadriceps maximal voluntary peak torque (PT) and corresponding vastus lateralis electromyographic activity, evoked torque (PT-NMES), vastus lateralis muscle thickness, fascicle length, pennation angle, and level of discomfort were assessed before and after the interventions. NMES training was performed 3 times per week and consisted of 18 sessions, 15 min/session, 6 s duration in each contraction interspersed with 18 s rest. After the training period, muscle thickness increased in the MF and PC groups (p<0.05). PT-NMES increased only in the PC group (p<0.05). All currents produced similar levels of discomfort (p>0.05). Quadriceps NMES training applied through alternated or pulsed currents produced similar effects in architecture and neuromuscular performance in competitive athletes. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Policy for equipment’s leasing period extension with minimum cost of maintenance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lestari, C.; Kurniati, N.

2018-04-01

The cost structure for equipment investment including purchase cost and maintenance cost is getting more expensive. The company considers to lease the equipment instead of purchase it under a contractual agreement. Offering to extend the lease period, following to the base lease period, will provide more benefits for both the lessor (owner) and the lessee (user). Whenever the lease period extension offered at the beginning of the contract, there are some risks in finance e.g. uncertainty of the equipment performance and lessor responsibility. Therefore, this research attempts to model the optimal maintenance policy for lease period extension offered at the end of the contract. Minimal repair is performed to rectify a failed equipment, while imperfect preventive maintenance is conducted to improve the operational state of the equipment when reaches a certain control limit to avoid failures. The mathematical model is constructed to determine the optimal control limit, the number and degree of preventive maintenance, and the multiplication number of the lease period extension. Finally, numerical examples are given to illustrate the influences of the optimal length of the extended lease and the maintenance policy to minimize the maintenance cost.

Exposure to Radiofrequency Radiation Emitted from Common Mobile Phone Jammers Alters the Pattern of Muscle Contractions: an Animal Model Study.

PubMed

Rafati, A; Rahimi, S; Talebi, A; Soleimani, A; Haghani, M; Mortazavi, S M J

2015-09-01

The rapid growth of wireless communication technologies has caused public concerns regarding the biological effects of electromagnetic radiations on human health. Some early reports indicated a wide variety of non-thermal effects of electromagnetic radiation on amphibians such as the alterations of the pattern of muscle extractions. This study is aimed at investigating the effects of exposure to radiofrequency (RF) radiation emitted from mobile phone jammers on the pulse height of contractions, the time interval between two subsequent contractions and the latency period of frog's isolated gastrocnemius muscle after stimulation with single square pulses of 1V (1 Hz). Frogs were kept in plastic containers in a room. Animals in the jammer group were exposed to radiofrequency (RF) radiation emitted from a common Jammer at a distance of 1m from the jammer's antenna for 2 hours while the control frogs were only sham exposed. Then animals were sacrificed and isolated gastrocnemius muscles were exposed to on/off jammer radiation for 3 subsequent 10 minute intervals. Isolated gastrocnemius muscles were attached to the force transducer with a string. Using a PowerLab device (26-T), the pattern of muscular contractions was monitored after applying single square pulses of 1V (1 Hz) as stimuli. The findings of this study showed that the pulse height of muscle contractions could not be affected by the exposure to electromagnetic fields. However, the latency period was effectively altered in RF-exposed samples. However, none of the experiments could show an alteration in the time interval between two subsequent contractions after exposure to electromagnetic fields. These findings support early reports which indicated a wide variety of non-thermal effects of electromagnetic radiation on amphibians including the effects on the pattern of muscle extractions.

Effect of neuromuscular electrical stimulation on motor cortex excitability upon release of tonic muscle contraction.

PubMed

Sugawara, Kenichi; Tanabe, Shigeo; Suzuki, Tomotaka; Higashi, Toshio

The aim of the present study was to investigate the neurophysiological triggers underlying muscle relaxation from the contracted state, and to examine the mechanisms involved in this process and their subsequent modification by neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES). Single-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) was used to produce motor-evoked potentials (MEPs) and short-interval intracortical inhibition (SICI) in 23 healthy participants, wherein motor cortex excitability was examined at the onset of voluntary muscle relaxation following a period of voluntary tonic muscle contraction. In addition, the effects of afferent input on motor cortex excitability, as produced by NMES during muscle contraction, were examined. In particular, two NMES intensities were used for analysis: 1.2 times the sensory threshold and 1.2 times the motor threshold (MT). Participants were directed to execute constant wrist extensions and to release muscle contraction in response to an auditory "GO" signal. MEPs were recorded from the flexor carpi radialis (FCR) and extensor carpi radialis (ECR) muscles, and TMS was applied at three different time intervals (30, 60, and 90 ms) after the "GO" signal. Motor cortex excitability was greater during voluntary ECR and FCR relaxation using high-intensity NMES, and relaxation time was decreased. Each parameter differed significantly between 30 and 60 ms. Moreover, in both muscles, SICI was larger in the presence than in the absence of NMES. Therefore, the present findings suggest that terminating a muscle contraction triggers transient neurophysiological mechanisms that facilitate the NMES-induced modulation of cortical motor excitability in the period prior to muscle relaxation. High-intensity NMES might facilitate motor cortical excitability as a function of increased inhibitory intracortical activity, and therefore serve as a transient trigger for the relaxation of prime mover muscles in a therapeutic context.

[Effect of Electroacupuncture at "Neiguan" (PC 6) and "Tianshu" (ST 25) for Colonic Motility and D 2 Receptor in Irritable Bowel Syndrome Rats].

PubMed

Wang, Shan; Guo, Meng-Wei; Gao, Yu-Shan; Ren, Xiao-Xuan; Lan, Ying; Ji, Mao-Xian; Wu, Yan-Ying; Li, Kai-Ge; Tan, Li-Hua; Sui, Ming-He

2018-01-25

To observe and compare the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) at "Tianshu" (ST 25) and "Neiguan" (PC 6) for colonic motility and the expression of colon dopamine D 2 in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) rats, and to explore the specificity of different meridians and different acupoints. Forty Wistar newborn rats were randomly divided into blank, model, Tianshu and Neiguan groups. Separation of mother and child and acetic acid coloclyster combined with colorectal distension were used to establish IBS model in the model, Tianshu and Neiguan groups. At the age of 9 weeks, EA at bilateral ST 25 and PC 6 were applied in the corresponding groups 5 times, once every other day. After the intervention, the Bristol fecal score, the latent period of abdominal retraction reflex and the number of contraction waves were recorded. The expression of dopamine D 2 receptor was detected by immunohistochemistry. Compared with the blank group, the Bristol fecal score of the model group was higher ( P <0.01), the 1 st contraction wave latent period was shorter ( P <0.01), the number of contraction waves in 90 s increased ( P <0.01), the immunoreactive expression of D 2 receptor in colon decreased ( P <0.01). Compared with the model group, the Bristol fecal scores of the Tianshu and Neiguan groups decreased ( P <0.01), the 1 st contraction wave latent periods were longer ( P <0.01), the numbers of contraction waves in 90 s decreased ( P <0.01), the positive expressions of D 2 receptor in colon increased ( P <0.01, P <0.05). Compared with the Tianshu group, the immunoreactive expression of D 2 receptor in the Neiguan group decreased ( P <0.01). EA at ST 25 and PC 6 can improve the symptoms of colonic motility in IBS rats. The effect of EA at ST 25 is better, which indicates that different meridians and different acupoints play specific effects.

48 CFR 846.710-71 - Warranty for construction-guarantee period services.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 5 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Warranty for construction-guarantee period services. 846.710-71 Section 846.710-71 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS CONTRACT MANAGEMENT QUALITY ASSURANCE Warranties 846.710-71 Warranty for...

7 CFR 633.6 - Program participation requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... CONSERVATION SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE LONG TERM CONTRACTING WATER BANK PROGRAM § 633.6 Program participation requirements. (a) WBP Agreement. An agreement shall be executed for each participating farm. The... may be more than one agreement for a farm. (b) Agreement period. The agreement period shall: (1) Be...

7 CFR 633.6 - Program participation requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... CONSERVATION SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE LONG TERM CONTRACTING WATER BANK PROGRAM § 633.6 Program participation requirements. (a) WBP Agreement. An agreement shall be executed for each participating farm. The... may be more than one agreement for a farm. (b) Agreement period. The agreement period shall: (1) Be...

40 CFR 35.6275 - Period of availability of funds.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 1 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Period of availability of funds. 35.6275 Section 35.6275 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY GRANTS AND OTHER FEDERAL ASSISTANCE STATE AND LOCAL ASSISTANCE Cooperative Agreements and Superfund State Contracts for Superfund...

40 CFR 35.6275 - Period of availability of funds.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Period of availability of funds. 35.6275 Section 35.6275 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY GRANTS AND OTHER FEDERAL ASSISTANCE STATE AND LOCAL ASSISTANCE Cooperative Agreements and Superfund State Contracts for Superfund...

24 CFR 203.266 - Period covered by periodic MIP.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MORTGAGE AND LOAN INSURANCE PROGRAMS UNDER NATIONAL HOUSING ACT AND OTHER AUTHORITIES SINGLE FAMILY MORTGAGE INSURANCE Contract Rights and Obligations Mortgage Insurance Premiums... with the date of the issuance of a Mortgage Insurance Certificate and ending on the next anniversary of...

24 CFR 203.266 - Period covered by periodic MIP.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MORTGAGE AND LOAN INSURANCE PROGRAMS UNDER NATIONAL HOUSING ACT AND OTHER AUTHORITIES SINGLE FAMILY MORTGAGE INSURANCE Contract Rights and Obligations Mortgage Insurance Premiums... with the date of the issuance of a Mortgage Insurance Certificate and ending on the next anniversary of...

48 CFR 52.245-9 - Use and Charges.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

...) Definitions. Definitions applicable to this contract are provided in the clause at 52.245-1, Government Property. Additional definitions as used in this clause include: Rental period means the calendar period... a waiver or relinquishment of any rights it may have against the Contractor stemming from the...

48 CFR 237.7602 - Policy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... terms and conditions of their contracts, during periods of crisis. As a general rule, the designation of... services shall have a written plan to ensure the continuation of these services in crisis situations...-provided written plan. Contractors will activate such plans only during periods of crisis, as directed by...

Electromyography tension and frequency spectrum analysis of some masticatory muscles at rest, isotonic and isometric contractions.

PubMed

Bazzotti, L

1999-01-01

On a population of 52 subjects surface electromyographic recordings of temporals and masseters, simultaneously with mandible dynamic of closure and clenching, were performed, in order to study tension and frequency behaviour in three postural conditions: rest, isotonic and isometric contractions. Frequency was studied using the median resulting from FFT calculation, and a new computing method, which presents the proportion of frequencies making up the whole EMG signal, by steps of 50 Hz. Tension was calculated as well. The results permit us to draw the following conclusions: 1. a period of EMG silence was present in 51 of 52 subjects at mandible closure (SPA--Silent Period Area); 2. SPA onset was before teeth contact (22.5 msec., during the motion of the mandible), while its end was after closure (10.2 msec., during motionless phase of clenching). This allowed to use the SPA as a tool to clearly distinguish isotonic from isometric contraction; 3. the comparison of tension and frequency, expressed as median, showed that at rest a muscle presents low frequency and low tension. In active contraction both increase their values. Nevertheless, in active contraction, while no differences were found in frequency behaviour, tension showed a difference: although higher than at rest, isotonic contraction presented lower values than during isometric contraction; 4. the study performed by the new program showed that the low frequency at rest was due to the high proportion (30-40%) of frequencies of less than 50 Hz, while the increase at function was due to the parallel increase of frequencies comprised between 100 and 250 Hz. Because it is known that muscles are composed of fibers at low frequency and at high frequency of discharge, which play different functional roles, the last finding suggests that the mathematical analysis of the spectrum of frequencies, could provide a functional-histological image of the muscle.

75 FR 13422 - Federal Acquisition Regulation; FAR Case 2008-015, Payments Under Fixed-Price Architect-Engineer...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-03-19

...-AL26 Federal Acquisition Regulation; FAR Case 2008-015, Payments Under Fixed-Price Architect-Engineer..., Payments Under Fixed-Price Architect-Engineer Contracts, currently requires contracting officers to... judgment regarding the amount of payment withheld to apply under fixed-price architect-engineer (A-E...

Is The Modern Lease a Contract or a Conveyance?--A Historical Inquiry

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Siegel, Stephen A.

1975-01-01

Argues that "contrary to conventional wisdom, current landlord-tenant law is modern, commercial, and already grounded in contract doctrine." Discusses the origins of the doctrines most frequently cited as illustrations of leasings property basis and redevelops the role of property law in adjudicating leasing disputes. (JT)

48 CFR 1852.243-71 - Shared savings.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... organizational support of a contract or group of contracts. These alternatives must result in a net reduction of... organizational support which are proposed to be changed. (2) A description of the difference between the current... make any structural or organizational changes in order to implement an approved CRP. (5) Government...

75 FR 69739 - Proposed Collection; Comment Request for Form 8921

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-11-15

..., Public Law 104-13 (44 U.S.C. 3506(c)(2)(A)). Currently, the IRS is soliciting comments concerning Form 8921, Applicable Insurance Contracts Information Return. DATES: Written comments should be received [email protected] . Title: Applicable Insurance Contracts Information Return. OMB Number: 1545-2083. Form...

75 FR 68217 - Acquisition Regulation: Agency Supplementary Regulations

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-11-05

... amending the Department of Energy Acquisition Regulation (DEAR) on DOE Management and Operating Contracts..., and update references. Today's rule does not alter substantive rights or obligations under current law... Contracts to conform it to the FAR. None of today's changes are substantive or of a nature to cause any...

75 FR 67164 - Proposed Collection; Comment Request for Revenue Procedure 2001-42

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-11-01

... Reduction Act of 1995, Public Law 104-13 (44 U.S.C. 3506(c)(2)(A)). Currently, the IRS is soliciting comments concerning Revenue Procedure 2001-42, Modified Endowment Contract Correction Program Extension... Internet, at [email protected] . SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Title: Modified Endowment Contract...

17 CFR 31.8 - Cover of leverage contracts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... this section. (2) Permissible cover for a long leverage contract is limited to: (i) Warehouse receipts... and accrued interest on any loan against such warehouse receipts does not exceed 70 percent of the current market value of the commodity represented by each receipt. (ii) Warehouse receipts for gold...

Modafinil inhibits K(Ca)3.1 currents and muscle contraction via a cAMP-dependent mechanism.

PubMed

Choi, Shinkyu; Kim, Moon Young; Joo, Ka Young; Park, Seonghee; Kim, Ji Aee; Jung, Jae-Chul; Oh, Seikwan; Suh, Suk Hyo

2012-07-01

Modafinil has been used as a psychostimulant for the treatment of narcolepsy. However, its primary mechanism of action remains elusive. Therefore, we examined the effects of modafinil on K(Ca)3.1 channels and vascular smooth muscle contraction. K(Ca)3.1 currents and channel activity were measured using a voltage-clamp technique and inside-out patches in mouse embryonic fibroblast cell line, NIH-3T3 fibroblasts. Intracellular adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) concentration was measured, and the phosphorylation of K(Ca)3.1 channel protein was examined using western blotting in NIH-3T3 fibroblasts and/or primary cultured mouse aortic smooth muscle cells (SMCs). Muscle contractions were recorded from mouse aorta and rat pulmonary artery by using a myograph developed in-house. Modafinil was found to inhibit K(Ca)3.1 currents in a concentration-dependent manner, and the half-maximal inhibition (IC(50)) of modafinil for the current inhibition was 6.8 ± 0.7 nM. The protein kinase A (PKA) activator forskolin also inhibited K(Ca)3.1 currents. The inhibitory effects of modafinil and forskolin on K(Ca)3.1 currents were blocked by the PKA inhibitors PKI(14-22) or H-89. In addition, modafinil relaxed blood vessels (mouse aorta and rat pulmonary artery) in a concentration-dependent manner. Modafinil increased cAMP concentrations in NIH-3T3 fibroblasts or primary cultured mouse aortic SMCs and phosphorylated K(Ca)3.1 channel protein in NIH-3T3 fibroblasts. However, open probability and single-channel current amplitudes of K(Ca)3.1 channels were not changed by modafinil. From these results, we conclude that modafinil inhibits K(Ca)3.1 channels and vascular smooth muscle contraction by cAMP-dependent phosphorylation, suggesting that modafinil can be used as a cAMP-dependent K(Ca)3.1 channel blocker and vasodilator. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The impact of the economic crisis on occupational injuries.

PubMed

de la Fuente, Verónica Sedano; López, Miguel A Camino; González, Ignacio Fontaneda; Alcántara, Oscar J González; Ritzel, Dale O

2014-02-01

The potential influence of the current economic crisis on occupational accident rates and accident severity is studied in an analysis of all workplace accidents that occurred in Spain throughout the period 2000-2009. The investigation confirms that occupational accidents in Spain are affected by the current economic crisis, which has provoked a sharp fall in both the number of accidents and the probability of having one. This may be justified by certain factors such as age, gender, length of service, size of the firm, and the employment stability of the injured worker. The influence of these factors is analyzed. The economic crises seems to provoke a sort of "natural selection" in the labor market and only the best adapted tend to remain (older workers, with more experience, a higher percentage of women, more workers in larger companies and permanent contracts), all of which means that the probability of workers having an injury is considerably reduced. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd and National Safety Council. All rights reserved.

Low rank factorization of the Coulomb integrals for periodic coupled cluster theory.

PubMed

Hummel, Felix; Tsatsoulis, Theodoros; Grüneis, Andreas

2017-03-28

We study a tensor hypercontraction decomposition of the Coulomb integrals of periodic systems where the integrals are factorized into a contraction of six matrices of which only two are distinct. We find that the Coulomb integrals can be well approximated in this form already with small matrices compared to the number of real space grid points. The cost of computing the matrices scales as O(N 4 ) using a regularized form of the alternating least squares algorithm. The studied factorization of the Coulomb integrals can be exploited to reduce the scaling of the computational cost of expensive tensor contractions appearing in the amplitude equations of coupled cluster methods with respect to system size. We apply the developed methodologies to calculate the adsorption energy of a single water molecule on a hexagonal boron nitride monolayer in a plane wave basis set and periodic boundary conditions.

Impact of economic fluctuations on suicide mortality in Canada (1926-2008): Testing the Durkheim, Ginsberg, and Henry and Short theories.

PubMed

Thibodeau, Lise; Lachaud, James

2016-01-01

Three theories have been proposed to explain the relationship between suicide and economic fluctuations, including the Durkheim (nonlinear), Ginsberg (procyclical), and Henry and Short (countercyclical) theories. This study tested the effect of economic fluctuations, measured by unemployment rate, on suicide rates in Canada from 1926 to 2008. Autoregressive integrated moving average time-series models were used. The results showed a significant relationship between suicide and economic fluctuation; this association was positive during the contraction period (1926-1950) and negative in the period of economic expansion (1951-1973). Males and females showed differential effects in the period of moderate unemployment (1974-2008). In addition, the suicide rate of mid-adults (45-64) was most impacted by economic fluctuations. Our study tends to support Durkheim's theory and suggests the need for public health responses in times of economic contraction and expansion.

Understanding the Global Structure and Evolution of Coronal Mass Ejections in the Solar Wind

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Riley, Pete

2004-01-01

This report summarizes the technical progress made during the first six months of the second year of the NASA Living with a Star program contract Understanding the global structure and evolution of coronal mass ejections in the solar wind, between NASA and Science Applications International Corporation, and covers the period November 18, 2003 - May 17,2004. Under this contract SAIC has conducted numerical and data analysis related to fundamental issues concerning the origin, intrinsic properties, global structure, and evolution of coronal mass ejections in the solar wind. During this working period we have focused on a quantitative assessment of 5 flux rope fitting techniques. In the following sections we summarize the main aspects of this work and our proposed investigation plan for the next reporting period. Thus far, our investigation has resulted in 6 refereed scientific publications and we have presented the results at a number of scientific meetings and workshops.

An Innovation for Global Clean Water

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1995-01-01

Under contract to NASA, Umpqua Research developed the Microbial Check Valve (MCV) iodine-dispensing system for the Space Shuttle Orbiter, introduced in 1979 to purify astronauts' drinking water. In 1989, NASA awarded the company a new contract to develop a system for continuous iodine release over long periods for use in the International Space Station. In 1993, the company demonstrated the Regenerable Biocide Delivery Unit, and NASA granted it an exclusive license.