5 CFR 591.225 - Which CPIs does OPM use?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

...—the BLS Consumer Price Index, All Urban Consumers (CPI-U); (b) For all COLA areas in the State of Alaska—the BLS CPI-U for Anchorage, AK; (c) For all COLA areas in the State of Hawaii and for Guam and...

5 CFR 591.225 - Which CPIs does OPM use?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

...—the BLS Consumer Price Index, All Urban Consumers (CPI-U); (b) For all COLA areas in the State of Alaska—the BLS CPI-U for Anchorage, AK; (c) For all COLA areas in the State of Hawaii and for Guam and...

5 CFR 591.225 - Which CPIs does OPM use?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

...—the BLS Consumer Price Index, All Urban Consumers (CPI-U); (b) For all COLA areas in the State of Alaska—the BLS CPI-U for Anchorage, AK; (c) For all COLA areas in the State of Hawaii and for Guam and...

5 CFR 591.225 - Which CPIs does OPM use?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

...—the BLS Consumer Price Index, All Urban Consumers (CPI-U); (b) For all COLA areas in the State of Alaska—the BLS CPI-U for Anchorage, AK; (c) For all COLA areas in the State of Hawaii and for Guam and...

78 FR 66643 - Civil Monetary Penalty Inflation Adjustment Rule

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-11-06

... Consumer Price Index \\2\\ for all-urban consumers (CPI-U) for the month of June of the calendar year... Index for all-urban consumers published by the Department of Labor.'' Interested parties may find the... $11,000 $11,000 $16,000 $16,000 BASED PAINT HAZARD REDUCTION ACT OF 1992. 42 U.S.C. 4910(a)(2) NOISE...

43 CFR 2807.12 - If I hold a grant, for what am I liable?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... costs incurred by the Federal government to control or abate conditions, such as fire or oil spills, which threaten life, property, or the environment, even if the threat occurs to areas that are not under... Urban Consumers, U.S. City Average (CPI-U) as of July of each year (difference in CPI-U from July of one...

43 CFR 2807.12 - If I hold a grant, for what am I liable?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... costs incurred by the Federal government to control or abate conditions, such as fire or oil spills, which threaten life, property, or the environment, even if the threat occurs to areas that are not under... Urban Consumers, U.S. City Average (CPI-U) as of July of each year (difference in CPI-U from July of one...

43 CFR 2807.12 - If I hold a grant, for what am I liable?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... costs incurred by the Federal government to control or abate conditions, such as fire or oil spills, which threaten life, property, or the environment, even if the threat occurs to areas that are not under... Urban Consumers, U.S. City Average (CPI-U) as of July of each year (difference in CPI-U from July of one...

43 CFR 2807.12 - If I hold a grant, for what am I liable?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... costs incurred by the Federal government to control or abate conditions, such as fire or oil spills, which threaten life, property, or the environment, even if the threat occurs to areas that are not under... Urban Consumers, U.S. City Average (CPI-U) as of July of each year (difference in CPI-U from July of one...

43 CFR 2886.13 - If I hold a grant or TUP, for what am I liable?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... extends to costs incurred by the Federal government to control or abate conditions, such as fire or oil spills, which threaten life, property, or the environment, even if the threat occurs to areas that are... Index for All Urban Consumers, U.S. City Average (CPI-U) as of July of each year (difference in CPI-U...

43 CFR 2886.13 - If I hold a grant or TUP, for what am I liable?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... extends to costs incurred by the Federal government to control or abate conditions, such as fire or oil spills, which threaten life, property, or the environment, even if the threat occurs to areas that are... Index for All Urban Consumers, U.S. City Average (CPI-U) as of July of each year (difference in CPI-U...

43 CFR 2886.13 - If I hold a grant or TUP, for what am I liable?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... extends to costs incurred by the Federal government to control or abate conditions, such as fire or oil spills, which threaten life, property, or the environment, even if the threat occurs to areas that are... Index for All Urban Consumers, U.S. City Average (CPI-U) as of July of each year (difference in CPI-U...

43 CFR 2886.13 - If I hold a grant or TUP, for what am I liable?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... extends to costs incurred by the Federal government to control or abate conditions, such as fire or oil spills, which threaten life, property, or the environment, even if the threat occurs to areas that are... Index for All Urban Consumers, U.S. City Average (CPI-U) as of July of each year (difference in CPI-U...

49 CFR 826.6 - Allowable fees and expenses.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... these rules may exceed $75 indexed as follows: ER14JN94.001 The CPI to be used is the annual average CPI, All Urban Consumers, U.S. City Average, All Items, except where a local, All Item index is available. Where a local index is available, but results in a manifest inequity vis-a-vis the U.S. City Average...

49 CFR 826.6 - Allowable fees and expenses.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... these rules may exceed $75 indexed as follows: ER14JN94.001 The CPI to be used is the annual average CPI, All Urban Consumers, U.S. City Average, All Items, except where a local, All Item index is available. Where a local index is available, but results in a manifest inequity vis-a-vis the U.S. City Average...

78 FR 79410 - Fair Credit Reporting Act Disclosures

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-12-30

...The Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection (Bureau) announces that the ceiling on allowable charges under Section 612(f) of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) will remain unchanged at $11.50 for 2014. The Bureau is required to increase the $8.00 amount referred to in Section 612(f)(1)(A)(i) of the FCRA on January 1 of each year, based proportionally on changes in the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U), with fractional changes rounded to the nearest fifty cents. The CPI-U increased 45.25 percent between September 1997, the date the FCRA amendments took effect, and September 2013. This increase in the CPI-U, and the requirement that any increase be rounded to the nearest fifty cents, results in no change in the maximum allowable charge of $11.50.

20 CFR 655.810 - What remedies may be ordered if violations are found?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... adjustments are to be based on changes in the Consumer Price Index for all Urban Consumers (CPI-U) for the U.S... by the Administrator, or upon the decision by an administrative law judge where a hearing is timely requested, or upon the decision by the Secretary where review is granted. The employer shall remit the...

47 CFR 1.1117 - Adjustments to charges.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

.... (1) The fees will be adjusted by the Commission to reflect the percentage change in the Consumer Price Index for all Urban Consumers (CPI-U) from the date of enactment of the authorizing legislation... these decisions be subject to petitions for reconsideration under § 1.429 of the rules. Requests for...

76 FR 78500 - Consumer Leasing (Regulation M)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-12-19

... in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI- W), as published by the..., and practice.\\14\\ The Bureau finds that there is good cause to conclude that providing notice and..., procedure, and practice and are thus exempt from the APA's notice-and-comment requirements. \\12\\ 5 U.S.C...

Social Security cost-of-living adjustments and the Consumer Price Index.

PubMed

Burdick, Clark; Fisher, Lynn

2007-01-01

OASDI benefits are indexed for inflation to protect beneficiaries from the loss of purchasing power implied by inflation. In the absence of such indexing, the purchasing power of Social Security benefits would be eroded as rising prices raise the cost of living. By statute, cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) for Social Security benefits are calculated using the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). Some argue that this index does not accurately reflect the inflation experienced by the elderly population and should be changed to an elderly-specific price index such as the Experimental Consumer Price Index for Americans 62 Years of Age and Older, often referred to as the Consumer Price Index for the Elderly (CPI-E). Others argue that the measure of inflation underlying the COLA is technically biased, causing it to overestimate changes in the cost of living. This argument implies that current COLAs tend to increase, rather than merely maintain, the purchasing power of benefits over time. Potential bias in the CPI as a cost-of-living index arises from a number of sources, including incomplete accounting for the ability of consumers to substitute goods or change purchasing outlets in response to relative price changes. The BLS has constructed a new index called the Chained Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (C-CPI-U) that better accounts for those consumer adjustments. Price indexes are not true cost-of-living indexes, but approximations of cost-of-living indexes (COLI). The Bureau of Labor Statistics (2006a) explains the difference between the two: As it pertains to the CPI, the COLI for the current month is based on the answer to the following question: "What is the cost, at this month ' market prices, of achieving the standard of living actually attained in the base period?" This cost is a hypothetical expenditure-the lowest expenditure level necessary at this month's prices to achieve the base-period's living standard.... Unfortunately, because the cost of achieving a living standard cannot be observed directly, in operational terms, a COLI can only be approximated. Although the CPI cannot be said to equal a cost-of-living index, the concept of the COLI provides the CPI's measurement objective and the standard by which we define any bias in the CPI. While all versions of the CPI only approximate the actual changes in the cost of living, the CPI-E has several additional technical limitations. First, the CPI-E may better account for the goods and services typically purchased by the elderly, but the expenditure weights for the elderly are the only difference between the CPI-E and CPI-W. These weights are based on a much smaller sample than the other two indices, making it less precise. Second, the CPI-E does not account for differences in retail outlets frequented by the aged population or the prices they pay. Finally, the purchasing population measured in the CPI-E is not necessarily identical to the Social Security beneficiary population, where more than one-fifth of OASDI beneficiaries are under age 62. Likewise, over one-fifth of persons aged 62 or older are not beneficiaries, but they are included in the CPI-E population. Finally, changes in the index used to calculate COLAs directly affect the amount of benefits paid, and as a result, projected solvency of the Social Security program. A switch to the CPI-E for the December 2006 COLA (received in January 2007) would have resulted in an average monthly benefit $0.90 higher than that received. If the December 2006 COLA had been adjusted by the Chained CPI-U instead, the average monthly benefit would have been $4.70 less than with current indexing. Any changes to the COLA that would cause faster growth in individual benefits would make the projected date of insolvency sooner, while slower growth would delay insolvency. Hobijn and Lagakos (2003) estimated that switching to the CPI-E for COLAs would move projected insolvency sooner by 3-5 years. A projection by SSA's Office of the Chief Actuary estimated that annual COLAs based on the Chained C-CPI-U beginning in 2006 would delay the date of OASDI insolvency by 4 years.

45 CFR 305.1 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

..., STANDARDS, FINANCIAL INCENTIVES, AND PENALTIES § 305.1 Definitions. The definitions found in § 301.1 of this... Consumer Price Index or CPI means the last Consumer Price Index for all-urban consumers published by the Department of Labor. The CPI for a fiscal year is the average of the Consumer Price Index for the 12-month...

Inflation and the Capital Budgeting Process.

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-04-01

model . [10:22] Friend, Landskroner and Losq assert that the traditional capital asset pricing model *( CAPM ...value (NPV) capital budgeting model is used extensively in this report and the Consumer Price Index - Urban (CPI-U) and the Wholesale Price Index (WPI...general price level adjustments into the capital budgeting model . The consideration of inflation risk is also warranted. The effects of inflation

42 CFR 418.309 - Hospice cap amount.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... change in the medical care expenditure category of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for urban consumers... 42 Public Health 3 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Hospice cap amount. 418.309 Section 418.309 Public Health CENTERS FOR MEDICARE & MEDICAID SERVICES, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED...

78 FR 70193 - Consumer Leasing (Regulation M)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-11-25

...The Board and the Bureau are publishing final rules amending the official interpretations and commentary for the agencies' regulations that implement the Consumer Leasing Act (CLA). The Dodd- Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (Dodd-Frank Act) amended the CLA by requiring that the dollar threshold for exempt consumer leases be adjusted annually by any annual percentage increase in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). Based on the annual percentage increase in the CPI-W as of June 1, 2013, the Board and the Bureau are adjusting the exemption threshold to $53,500, effective January 1, 2014. Because the Dodd-Frank Act also requires similar adjustments in the Truth in Lending Act's threshold for exempt consumer credit transactions, the Board and the Bureau are making similar amendments to each of their respective regulations implementing the Truth in Lending Act elsewhere in the Federal Register.

76 FR 35721 - Consumer Leasing

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-06-20

...The Board is publishing a final rule amending the staff commentary that interprets the requirements of Regulation M, which implements the Consumer Leasing Act (CLA). Effective July 21, 2011, the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (Dodd-Frank Act) amends the CLA by increasing the threshold for exempt consumer leases from $25,000 to $50,000. In addition, the Dodd-Frank Act requires that this threshold be adjusted annually by any annual percentage increase in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). Accordingly, based on the annual percentage increase in the CPI-W as of June 1, 2011, the Board is adjusting the exemption threshold from $50,000 to $51,800, effective January 1, 2012. Because the Dodd-Frank Act also requires similar adjustments in the Truth in Lending Act's threshold for exempt consumer credit transactions, the Board is making similar amendments to Regulation Z elsewhere in today's Federal Register.

78 FR 70194 - Truth in Lending (Regulation Z)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-11-25

...The Board and the Bureau are publishing final rules amending the official interpretations and commentary for the agencies' regulations that implement the Truth in Lending Act (TILA). The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (Dodd-Frank Act) amended TILA by requiring that the dollar threshold for exempt consumer credit transactions be adjusted annually by any annual percentage increase in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). Based on the annual percentage increase in the CPI-W as of June 1, 2013, the Board and the Bureau are adjusting the exemption threshold to $53,500, effective January 1, 2014. Because the Dodd-Frank Act also requires similar adjustments in the Consumer Leasing Act's threshold for exempt consumer leases, the Board and the Bureau are making similar amendments to each of their respective regulations implementing the Consumer Leasing Act elsewhere in the Federal Register.

76 FR 35722 - Truth in Lending

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-06-20

...The Board is publishing a final rule amending the staff commentary that interprets the requirements of Regulation Z, which implements the Truth in Lending Act (TILA). Effective July 21, 2011, the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (Dodd- Frank Act) amends TILA by increasing the threshold for exempt consumer credit transactions from $25,000 to $50,000. In addition, the Dodd- Frank Act requires that this threshold be adjusted annually by any annual percentage increase in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). Accordingly, based on the annual percentage increase in the CPI-W as of June 1, 2011, the Board is adjusting the exemption threshold from $50,000 to $51,800, effective January 1, 2012. Because the Dodd-Frank Act also requires similar adjustments in the Consumer Leasing Act's threshold for exempt consumer leases, the Board is making similar amendments to Regulation M elsewhere in today's Federal Register.

77 FR 69735 - Consumer Leasing (Regulation M)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-11-21

...The Board and the Bureau are publishing final rules amending the official interpretations and commentary for the agencies' regulations that implement the Consumer Leasing Act (CLA). Effective July 21, 2011, the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (Dodd-Frank Act) amended the CLA by increasing the threshold for exempt consumer leases from $25,000 to $50,000 and requiring that, on or after December 31, 2011, this threshold be adjusted annually by any annual percentage increase in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). Accordingly, the exemption threshold was adjusted to $51,800 effective January 1, 2012. Based on the annual percentage increase in the CPI-W as of June 1, 2012, the Board and the Bureau are adjusting the exemption threshold from $51,800 to $53,000, effective January 1, 2013. Because the Dodd-Frank Act also requires similar adjustments in the Truth in Lending Act's threshold for exempt consumer credit transactions, the Board and the Bureau are making similar amendments to each of their respective regulations implementing the Truth in Lending Act elsewhere in the Federal Register.

77 FR 69736 - Truth in Lending (Regulation Z)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-11-21

...The Board and the Bureau are publishing final rules amending the official interpretations and commentary for the agencies' regulations that implement the Truth in Lending Act (TILA). Effective July 21, 2011, the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (Dodd-Frank Act) amended TILA by increasing the threshold for exempt consumer credit transactions from $25,000 to $50,000 and requiring that, on or after December 31, 2011, this threshold be adjusted annually by any annual percentage increase in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI- W). Accordingly, the exemption threshold was adjusted to $51,800 effective January 1, 2012. Based on the annual percentage increase in the CPI-W as of June 1, 2012, the Board and the Bureau are adjusting the exemption threshold from $51,800 to $53,000, effective January 1, 2013. Because the Dodd-Frank Act also requires similar adjustments in the Consumer Leasing Act's threshold for exempt consumer leases, the Board and the Bureau are making similar amendments to each of their respective regulations implementing the Consumer Leasing Act elsewhere in the Federal Register.

Real inflation of journal prices: medical journals, U.S. journals, and Brandon list journals.

PubMed Central

Kronenfeld, M R; Gable, S H

1983-01-01

Increases in price during the last twenty years were studied for the journals listed in the 1983 Brandon list, and during the last fifteen years for all medical journals and for U.S. periodicals overall. When compared with increases in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), prices in all three categories of publications have increased much more rapidly than have prices overall. Libraries whose journal-acquisition budgets increased merely at the same rate as the CPI during the periods examined today can purchase only 50% to 70% of the journals they purchased in 1963. This information should help librarians justify budget increases. PMID:6652296

77 FR 76839 - Home Mortgage Disclosure (Regulation C): Adjustment To Asset-Size Exemption Threshold

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-12-31

...The Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection (Bureau) is publishing a final rule amending the official commentary that interprets the requirements of the Bureau's Regulation C (Home Mortgage Disclosure) to reflect a change in the asset-size exemption threshold for banks, savings associations, and credit unions based on the annual percentage change in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). The exemption threshold is adjusted to increase to $42 million from $41 million. The adjustment is based on the 2.23 percent increase in the average of the CPI-W for the 12-month period ending in November 2012. Therefore, banks, savings associations, and credit unions with assets of $42 million or less as of December 31, 2012, are exempt from collecting data in 2013.

78 FR 79285 - Home Mortgage Disclosure (Regulation C): Adjustment to Asset-Size Exemption Threshold

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-12-30

...The Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection (Bureau) is publishing a final rule amending the official commentary that interprets the requirements of the Bureau's Regulation C (Home Mortgage Disclosure) to reflect a change in the asset-size exemption threshold for banks, savings associations, and credit unions based on the annual percentage change in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). The exemption threshold is adjusted to increase to $43 million from $42 million. The adjustment is based on the 1.4 percent increase in the average of the CPI-W for the 12-month period ending in November 2013. Therefore, banks, savings associations, and credit unions with assets of $43 million or less as of December 31, 2013, are exempt from collecting data in 2014.

Water and Wastewater Rate Hikes Outpace CPI

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

Stratton, Hannah; Fuchs, Heidi; Chen, Yuting

Water and wastewater treatment and delivery is the most capital-intensive of all utility services. Historically underpriced, water and wastewater rates have exhibited unprecedented growth in the past fifteen years. Steep annual increases in water and wastewater rates that outpace the Consumer Price Index (CPI) have increasingly become the norm across the United States. In this paper, we analyze water and wastewater rates across U.S. census regions between 2000 and 2014. We also examine some of the driving factors behind these rate increases, including drought, water source, required infrastructure investment, population patterns, and conservation effects. Our results demonstrate that water andmore » wastewater prices have consistently increased and have outstripped CPI throughout the study period nationwide, as well as within each census region. Further, evaluation of the current and upcoming challenges facing water and wastewater utilities suggests that sharp rate increases are likely to continue in the foreseeable future.« less

78 FR 14913 - Domestic Baggage Liability

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-03-08

...,500 x 1.355], which yields $3,387.50. (The base amount of $2,500 in the formula was the minimum... was the CPI-U for July 2012, and 168.8 was the CPI-U for December 1999. The CPI-U data are from the...), the Department required the amount of compensation due to passengers in instances of denied boarding...

5 CFR 591.224 - How does OPM adjust price indexes between surveys?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... price indexes between the triennial surveys in each COLA area that is not surveyed in that year. To do this, OPM uses the annual or biennial change in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the COLA area... Islands, OPM will adjust as warranted the price indexes and COLA rates for Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin...

5 CFR 591.224 - How does OPM adjust price indexes between surveys?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... price indexes between the triennial surveys in each COLA area that is not surveyed in that year. To do this, OPM uses the annual or biennial change in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the COLA area... Islands, OPM will adjust as warranted the price indexes and COLA rates for Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin...

5 CFR 591.224 - How does OPM adjust price indexes between surveys?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... price indexes between the triennial surveys in each COLA area that is not surveyed in that year. To do this, OPM uses the annual or biennial change in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the COLA area... Islands, OPM will adjust as warranted the price indexes and COLA rates for Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin...

5 CFR 591.224 - How does OPM adjust price indexes between surveys?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... price indexes between the triennial surveys in each COLA area that is not surveyed in that year. To do this, OPM uses the annual or biennial change in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the COLA area... Islands, OPM will adjust as warranted the price indexes and COLA rates for Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin...

5 CFR 591.224 - How does OPM adjust price indexes between surveys?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... price indexes between the triennial surveys in each COLA area that is not surveyed in that year. To do this, OPM uses the annual or biennial change in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the COLA area... Islands, OPM will adjust as warranted the price indexes and COLA rates for Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin...

The measurement of China's consumer market development based on CPI data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xiao, Jiang; Wang, Minggang; Tian, Lixin; Zhen, Zaili

2018-01-01

Consumer Price Index (CPI) is a comprehensive index which contains a large amount of market information. In order to effectively measure the running status of China's consumer market and analyze the dynamic evolution characteristics of regional economic consumption in China, the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of random matrix are proposed to quantitatively describe the evolution relationship of provincial and regional CPI in China. Based on the provincial data of China's CPI, system risk entropy, synchronicity ratio, stability and market induction are introduced to characterize the market evolution characteristics, and analyze the regional differences and synchronicity of the consumer price index of China and evaluate the development of China's consumer market. The results show that the average system risk entropy of China's consumer market for the period 2000-2015 is 0.1646, fluctuating in the range of 0.0512-0.3288, indicating a higher system risk of China's consumer market. The system risk of China's consumer market is still higher than the average in nearly 15 years. Fluctuating in the range of 0.3871-0.9355, the market synchronicity ratio has a mean of 0.7225, which reveals a higher market consistency level, a rising trend in fluctuation but an increasing tendency in the degree of unbalanced regional development. Evolution results of market induction demonstrate that the evolution of China's consumer market has experienced four stages. The market induction has possessed a sustained growth trend since August 2010. Scenario analysis indicates that the key to effectively improve China's consumer market system is to solve the lagging issue of China's western region market on the basis of controlling and resolving of the existing risk.

Adjusting Health Expenditures for Inflation: A Review of Measures for Health Services Research in the United States.

PubMed

Dunn, Abe; Grosse, Scott D; Zuvekas, Samuel H

2018-02-01

To provide guidance on selecting the most appropriate price index for adjusting health expenditures or costs for inflation. Major price index series produced by federal statistical agencies. We compare the key characteristics of each index and develop suggestions on specific indexes to use in many common situations and general guidance in others. Price series and methodological documentation were downloaded from federal websites and supplemented with literature scans. The gross domestic product implicit price deflator or the overall Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) index is preferable to the Consumer Price Index (CPI-U) to adjust for general inflation, in most cases. The Personal Health Care (PHC) index or the PCE health-by-function index is generally preferred to adjust total medical expenditures for inflation. The CPI medical care index is preferred for the adjustment of consumer out-of-pocket expenditures for inflation. A new, experimental disease-specific Medical Care Expenditure Index is now available to adjust payments for disease treatment episodes. There is no single gold standard for adjusting health expenditures for inflation. Our discussion of best practices can help researchers select the index best suited to their study. © Published 2016. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.

Determinants of Medical and Health Care Expenditure Growth for Urban Residents in China: A Systematic Review Article.

PubMed

Zhu, Xiaolong; Cai, Qiong; Wang, Jin; Liu, Yun

2014-12-01

In recent years, medical and health care consumption has risen, making health risk an important determinant of household spending and welfare. We aimed to examine the determinants of medical and health care expenditure to help policy-makers in the improvement of China's health care system, benefiting the country, society and every household. This paper employs panel data from China's provinces from 2001 to 2011 with all possible economic variations and studies the determinants of medical and healthcare expenditure for urban residents. CPI (consumer price index) of medical services and the resident consumption level of urban residents have positive influence on medical and health care expenditures for urban residents, while the local medical budget, the number of health institutions, the incidence of infectious diseases, the year-end population and the savings of urban residents will not have effect on medical and health care expenditure for urban residents. This paper proposed three relevant policy suggestions for Chinese governments based on the findings of the research.

Making comparative performance information more comprehensible: an experimental evaluation of the impact of formats on consumer understanding

PubMed Central

Damman, Olga C; De Jong, Anco; Hibbard, Judith H; Timmermans, Danielle R M

2016-01-01

Study objectives We aimed to investigate how different presentation formats influence comprehension and use of comparative performance information (CPI) among consumers. Methods An experimental between-subjects and within-subjects design with manipulations of CPI presentation formats. We enrolled both consumers with lower socioeconomic status (SES)/cognitive skills and consumers with higher SES/cognitive skills, recruited through an online access panel. Respondents received fictitious CPI and completed questions about interpretation and information use. Between subjects, we tested (1) displaying an overall performance score (yes/no); (2) displaying a small number of quality indicators (5 vs 9); and (3) displaying different types of evaluative symbols (star ratings, coloured dots and word icons vs numbers and bar graphs). Within subjects, we tested the effect of a reduced number of healthcare providers (5 vs 20). Data were analysed using descriptive analysis, analyses of variance and paired-sampled t tests. Results A total of 902 (43%) respondents participated. Displaying an overall performance score and the use of coloured dots and word icons particularly enhanced consumer understanding. Importantly, respondents provided with coloured dots most often correctly selected the top three healthcare providers (84.3%), compared with word icons (76.6% correct), star ratings (70.6% correct), numbers (62.0%) and bars (54.2%) when viewing performance scores of 20 providers. Furthermore, a reduced number of healthcare providers appeared to support consumers, for example, when provided with 20 providers, 69.5% correctly selected the top three, compared with 80.2% with five providers. Discussion Particular presentation formats enhanced consumer understanding of CPI, most importantly the use of overall performance scores, word icons and coloured dots, and a reduced number of providers displayed. Public report efforts should use these formats to maximise impact on consumers. PMID:26543066

78 FR 79286 - Truth in Lending (Regulation Z): Adjustment to Asset-Size Exemption Threshold

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-12-30

...The Bureau is amending the official commentary that interprets the requirements of the Bureau's Regulation Z (Truth in Lending) to reflect a change in the asset size threshold for certain creditors to qualify for an exemption to the requirement to establish an escrow account for a higher-priced mortgage loan based on the annual percentage change in the average of the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) for the 12-month period ending in November. The exemption threshold is adjusted to increase to $2.028 billion from $2 billion. The adjustment is based on the 1.4 percent increase in the average of the CPI-W for the 12-month period ending in November 2013. Therefore, creditors with assets of $2.028 billion or less as of December 31, 2013, are exempt, if other requirements of Regulation Z also are met, from establishing escrow accounts for higher-priced mortgage loans in 2014.

Determinants of Medical and Health Care Expenditure Growth for Urban Residents in China: A Systematic Review Article

PubMed Central

ZHU, Xiaolong; CAI, Qiong; WANG, Jin; LIU, Yun

2014-01-01

In recent years, medical and health care consumption has risen, making health risk an important determinant of household spending and welfare. We aimed to examine the determinants of medical and health care expenditure to help policy-makers in the improvement of China’s health care system, benefiting the country, society and every household. This paper employs panel data from China’s provinces from 2001 to 2011 with all possible economic variations and studies the determinants of medical and healthcare expenditure for urban residents. CPI (consumer price index) of medical services and the resident consumption level of urban residents have positive influence on medical and health care expenditures for urban residents, while the local medical budget, the number of health institutions, the incidence of infectious diseases, the year-end population and the savings of urban residents will not have effect on medical and health care expenditure for urban residents. This paper proposed three relevant policy suggestions for Chinese governments based on the findings of the research. PMID:26171351

Making comparative performance information more comprehensible: an experimental evaluation of the impact of formats on consumer understanding.

PubMed

Damman, Olga C; De Jong, Anco; Hibbard, Judith H; Timmermans, Danielle R M

2016-11-01

We aimed to investigate how different presentation formats influence comprehension and use of comparative performance information (CPI) among consumers. An experimental between-subjects and within-subjects design with manipulations of CPI presentation formats. We enrolled both consumers with lower socioeconomic status (SES)/cognitive skills and consumers with higher SES/cognitive skills, recruited through an online access panel. Respondents received fictitious CPI and completed questions about interpretation and information use. Between subjects, we tested (1) displaying an overall performance score (yes/no); (2) displaying a small number of quality indicators (5 vs 9); and (3) displaying different types of evaluative symbols (star ratings, coloured dots and word icons vs numbers and bar graphs). Within subjects, we tested the effect of a reduced number of healthcare providers (5 vs 20). Data were analysed using descriptive analysis, analyses of variance and paired-sampled t tests. A total of 902 (43%) respondents participated. Displaying an overall performance score and the use of coloured dots and word icons particularly enhanced consumer understanding. Importantly, respondents provided with coloured dots most often correctly selected the top three healthcare providers (84.3%), compared with word icons (76.6% correct), star ratings (70.6% correct), numbers (62.0%) and bars (54.2%) when viewing performance scores of 20 providers. Furthermore, a reduced number of healthcare providers appeared to support consumers, for example, when provided with 20 providers, 69.5% correctly selected the top three, compared with 80.2% with five providers. Particular presentation formats enhanced consumer understanding of CPI, most importantly the use of overall performance scores, word icons and coloured dots, and a reduced number of providers displayed. Public report efforts should use these formats to maximise impact on consumers. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

Integrating clinical performance improvement across physician organizations: the PhyCor experience.

PubMed

Loeppke, R; Howell, J W

1999-02-01

There is a paucity of literature describing the implementation of clinical performance improvement (CPI) efforts across geographically dispersed multispecialty group practices and independent practice associations. PhyCor, a physician management company based in Nashville, Tennessee, has integrated CPI initiatives into its operating infrastructure. PhyCor CPI INITIATIVES: The strategic framework guiding PhyCor's CPI initiatives is built around a physician-driven, patient-centered model. Physician/administrator leadership teams develop and implement a clinical and financial strategic plan for performance improvement; adopt local clinical and operational performance indicators; and agree on and gain consensus with local physician champions to engage in CPI initiatives. The area/regional leadership councils integrate and coordinate regional medical management and CPI initiatives among local groups and independent practice associations. In addition to these councils and a national leadership council, condition-specific care management councils have also been established. These councils develop condition-specific protocols and outcome measures and lead the implementation of CPI initiatives at their own clinics. Key resources supporting CPI initiatives include information/knowledge management, education and training, and patient education and consumer decision support. Localized efforts in both the asthma care and diabetes management initiatives have led to some preliminary improvements in quality of care indicators. Physician leadership and strategic vision, CPI-oriented organizational infrastructure, broad-based physician involvement in CPI, providing access to performance data, parallel incentives, and creating a sense of urgency for accelerated change are all critical success factors to the implementation of CPI strategies at the local, regional, and national levels.

Nanotechnology in the real world: Redeveloping the nanomaterial consumer products inventory

PubMed Central

Kuiken, Todd; Vejerano, Eric P; McGinnis, Sean P; Hochella, Michael F; Rejeski, David; Hull, Matthew S

2015-01-01

Summary To document the marketing and distribution of nano-enabled products into the commercial marketplace, the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars and the Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies created the Nanotechnology Consumer Products Inventory (CPI) in 2005. The objective of this present work is to redevelop the CPI by leading a research effort to increase the usefulness and reliability of this inventory. We created eight new descriptors for consumer products, including information pertaining to the nanomaterials contained in each product. The project was motivated by the recognition that a diverse group of stakeholders from academia, industry, and state/federal government had become highly dependent on the inventory as an important resource and bellweather of the pervasiveness of nanotechnology in society. We interviewed 68 nanotechnology experts to assess key information needs. Their answers guided inventory modifications by providing a clear conceptual framework best suited for user expectations. The revised inventory was released in October 2013. It currently lists 1814 consumer products from 622 companies in 32 countries. The Health and Fitness category contains the most products (762, or 42% of the total). Silver is the most frequently used nanomaterial (435 products, or 24%); however, 49% of the products (889) included in the CPI do not provide the composition of the nanomaterial used in them. About 29% of the CPI (528 products) contain nanomaterials suspended in a variety of liquid media and dermal contact is the most likely exposure scenario from their use. The majority (1288 products, or 71%) of the products do not present enough supporting information to corroborate the claim that nanomaterials are used. The modified CPI has enabled crowdsourcing capabilities, which allow users to suggest edits to any entry and permits researchers to upload new findings ranging from human and environmental exposure data to complete life cycle assessments. There are inherent limitations to this type of database, but these modifications to the inventory addressed the majority of criticisms raised in published literature and in surveys of nanotechnology stakeholders and experts. The development of standardized methods and metrics for nanomaterial characterization and labelling in consumer products can lead to greater understanding between the key stakeholders in nanotechnology, especially consumers, researchers, regulators, and industry. PMID:26425429

77 FR 59013 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request; Consumer...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-09-25

... for OMB Review; Comment Request; Consumer Price Index Housing Survey ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: The... request (ICR) titled, ``Consumer Price Index Housing Survey,'' to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB...)(D). SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is a measure of the average change...

76 FR 27665 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request; Consumer...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-05-12

... INFORMATION: The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is a measure of the average change over time in the prices paid by... for OMB Review; Comment Request; Consumer Price Index Commodities and Services Survey ACTION: Notice...) sponsored information collection request (ICR) titled, ``Consumer Price Index Commodities and Services...

Out of sight but not out of mind: Home countries' macroeconomic volatilities and immigrants' mental health.

PubMed

Nguyen, Ha Trong; Connelly, Luke Brian

2018-01-01

We provide the first empirical evidence that better economic performances by immigrants' countries of origin, as measured by lower consumer price index (CPI) or higher gross domestic product, improve immigrants' mental health. We use an econometrically-robust approach that exploits exogenous changes in macroeconomic conditions across immigrants' home countries over time and controls for immigrants' observable and unobservable characteristics. The CPI effect is statistically significant and sizeable. Furthermore, the CPI effect diminishes as the time since emigrating increases. By contrast, home countries' unemployment rates and exchange rate fluctuations have no impact on immigrants' mental health. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Cost-of-living indexes and demographic change.

PubMed

Diamond, C A

1990-06-01

The Consumer Price Index (CPI), although not without problems, is the most often used mechanism for adjusting contracts for cost-of-living changes in the US. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics lists several problems associated with using the CPI as a cost-of-living index where the proportion of 2-worker families is increasing, population is shifting, and work week hours are changing. This study shows how to compute cost-of-living indexes which are inexpensive to update, use less restrictive assumptions about consumer preferences, do not require statistical estimation, and handle the problem of increasing numbers of families where both the husband and wife work. This study attempts to how widely in fact the CPI varies with alternative true cost-of-living varies with alternative true cost-of-living indexes although in the end this de facto cost-of-living measure holds up quite well. In times of severe price inflation people change their preferences by substitution, necessitating a flexible cost-of-living index that accounts for this fundamental economic behavior.

Medical care price indexes: theory, construction & empirical analysis of the US series 1927-1990.

PubMed

Getzen, T E

1992-01-01

The historical development of price indexes as wage adjustment mechanisms is reviewed, as is the theory of aggregation and methods for dealing with quality and technological change. The construction of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Medical Care Price Index (MCPI) is detailed. ARIMA analysis of the MCPI for the period 1927-1990 indicates that; (i) the MCPI is largely a damped and delayed function of the CPI, with an average lag of 8 months; (ii) medical care prices rose 2-4 percent faster than the all-items CPI since 1950, but not for 1927-1950; (iii) health expenditures are affected primarily by the general CPI, with little independent effect of specifically medical prices. The MCPI is a reliable measure of changes in consumer prices with strong construct validity. However, it was not designed for use as a deflator of medical expenditures, and is misleading when erroneously employed in that unintended role. The price/quantity duality and linear expenditure function which form the basis of Laspeyres price indexes are not applicable to nonconcatenable goods such as insurance or medical care. In these complex transactions, quality dominates quantity, fixed prices are replaced by reimbursement and professional judgement, and the assumption of additive separability required to use the price index as a deflator of health expenditures is not valid.

Economy of Force: Continuous Process Improvement And The Air Service

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-06-01

a household goods move, viewed from the perspective of a customer when interacting with a service organization, assists in demonstrating this...improvement (CPI) as well. The components of a process that deliver a value-added effect to a consumer of the goods or services generated by the process...CPI is largely about the “voice of the customer ” and all organizations, service or production based, have customers and processes. There are value

33 CFR 138.240 - Procedure for calculating limit of liability adjustments for inflation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... calculating limit of liability adjustments for inflation. (a) Formula for calculating a cumulative percent... Current Period), using the following escalation formula: Percent change in the Annual CPI-U = [(Annual CPI.... This cumulative percent change value is rounded to one decimal place. (b) Significance threshold. Not...

Systemic risk and spatiotemporal dynamics of the consumer market of China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Minggang; Tian, Lixin; Xu, Hua; Li, Weiyu; Du, Ruijin; Dong, Gaogao; Wang, Jie; Gu, Jiani

2017-05-01

The consumer price index (CPI) contains rich information of the consumer market, in order to characterize the essential characteristics of the consumer market of China, a novel method by using complex network theory is proposed to visualizing the evolution and transformation characteristics of correlated modes among the regional consumer markets. CPI data of 31 provinces and cities of China are selected as sample data. Underlying dynamics of time-evolving correlation networks are revealed. A formula to measure the systemic risk in the consumer market is designed. And the correlation modes transmission network of the regional consumer markets is obtained. Numerical simulations show that the consumer market network has co-movement, group-occurring and small-word property. Different regions played different roles in the consumer market of China. The risk in the consumer market presented a decreasing trend from April 2013 but remain at the high level. Different from the stochastic system, the consumer market of China both has the short-range correlation and the long-range correlation. The strength of correlation modes transmission network basically satisfies a power-law distribution. The correlation modes are transferred into each other conveniently, although the consumer market system is highly complicated. The transformation of the correlation patterns of the regional consumer markets mainly revolves around three core correlation modes and each transformation needs to undergo 4 non-core modes.

Keeping Pace With Water and Wastewater Rates

DOE PAGES

Stratton, Hannah; Fuchs, Heidi; Chen, Yuting; ...

2017-10-01

We present that water and wastewater treatment and delivery are the most capital-intensive of all utility services. The literature indicates that historically underpriced water and wastewater rates have exhibited steadily high growth in the past 15 years, while the consumer price index (CPI) of water and sewage maintenance has outpaced the general CPI by an increasingly wide margin. This article employs a chained analysis method to examine water and wastewater rates for a group of utilities across US Census regions between 2000 and 2014. Results demonstrate that water and wastewater prices for this sample group have consistently increased and havemore » surpassed CPI growth since 2006. Finally, current and upcoming challenges facing water and wastewater utilities suggest that rate increases are likely to continue in the foreseeable future.« less

Keeping Pace With Water and Wastewater Rates

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

Stratton, Hannah; Fuchs, Heidi; Chen, Yuting

We present that water and wastewater treatment and delivery are the most capital-intensive of all utility services. The literature indicates that historically underpriced water and wastewater rates have exhibited steadily high growth in the past 15 years, while the consumer price index (CPI) of water and sewage maintenance has outpaced the general CPI by an increasingly wide margin. This article employs a chained analysis method to examine water and wastewater rates for a group of utilities across US Census regions between 2000 and 2014. Results demonstrate that water and wastewater prices for this sample group have consistently increased and havemore » surpassed CPI growth since 2006. Finally, current and upcoming challenges facing water and wastewater utilities suggest that rate increases are likely to continue in the foreseeable future.« less

The Physiological Functions and Structural Determinants of Catalytic Bias in the [FeFe]-Hydrogenases CpI and CpII of Clostridium pasteurianum Strain W5.

PubMed

Therien, Jesse B; Artz, Jacob H; Poudel, Saroj; Hamilton, Trinity L; Liu, Zhenfeng; Noone, Seth M; Adams, Michael W W; King, Paul W; Bryant, Donald A; Boyd, Eric S; Peters, John W

2017-01-01

The first generation of biochemical studies of complex, iron-sulfur-cluster-containing [FeFe]-hydrogenases and Mo-nitrogenase were carried out on enzymes purified from Clostridium pasteurianum (strain W5). Previous studies suggested that two distinct [FeFe]-hydrogenases are expressed differentially under nitrogen-fixing and non-nitrogen-fixing conditions. As a result, the first characterized [FeFe]-hydrogenase (CpI) is presumed to have a primary role in central metabolism, recycling reduced electron carriers that accumulate during fermentation via proton reduction. A role for capturing reducing equivalents released as hydrogen during nitrogen fixation has been proposed for the second hydrogenase, CpII. Biochemical characterization of CpI and CpII indicated CpI has extremely high hydrogen production activity in comparison to CpII, while CpII has elevated hydrogen oxidation activity in comparison to CpI when assayed under the same conditions. This suggests that these enzymes have evolved a catalytic bias to support their respective physiological functions. Using the published genome of C. pasteurianum (strain W5) hydrogenase sequences were identified, including the already known [NiFe]-hydrogenase, CpI, and CpII sequences, and a third hydrogenase, CpIII was identified in the genome as well. Quantitative real-time PCR experiments were performed in order to analyze transcript abundance of the hydrogenases under diazotrophic and non-diazotrophic growth conditions. There is a markedly reduced level of CpI gene expression together with concomitant increases in CpII gene expression under nitrogen-fixing conditions. Structure-based analyses of the CpI and CpII sequences reveal variations in their catalytic sites that may contribute to their alternative physiological roles. This work demonstrates that the physiological roles of CpI and CpII are to evolve and to consume hydrogen, respectively, in concurrence with their catalytic activities in vitro , with CpII capturing excess reducing equivalents under nitrogen fixation conditions. Comparison of the primary sequences of CpI and CpII and their homologs provides an initial basis for identifying key structural determinants that modulate hydrogen production and hydrogen oxidation activities.

The Physiological Functions and Structural Determinants of Catalytic Bias in the [FeFe]-Hydrogenases CpI and CpII of Clostridium pasteurianum Strain W5

DOE PAGES

Therien, Jesse B.; Artz, Jacob H.; Poudel, Saroj; ...

2017-07-12

Here, the first generation of biochemical studies of complex, iron-sulfur-cluster-containing [FeFe]-hydrogenases and Mo-nitrogenase were carried out on enzymes purified from Clostridium pasteurianum (strain W5). Previous studies suggested that two distinct [FeFe]-hydrogenases are expressed differentially under nitrogen-fixing and non-nitrogen-fixing conditions. As a result, the first characterized [FeFe]-hydrogenase (CpI) is presumed to have a primary role in central metabolism, recycling reduced electron carriers that accumulate during fermentation via proton reduction. A role for capturing reducing equivalents released as hydrogen during nitrogen fixation has been proposed for the second hydrogenase, CpII. Biochemical characterization of CpI and CpII indicated CpI has extremely high hydrogenmore » production activity in comparison to CpII, while CpII has elevated hydrogen oxidation activity in comparison to CpI when assayed under the same conditions. This suggests that these enzymes have evolved a catalytic bias to support their respective physiological functions. Using the published genome of C. pasteurianum (strain W5) hydrogenase sequences were identified, including the already known [NiFe]-hydrogenase, CpI, and CpII sequences, and a third hydrogenase, CpIII was identified in the genome as well. Quantitative real-time PCR experiments were performed in order to analyze transcript abundance of the hydrogenases under diazotrophic and non-diazotrophic growth conditions. There is a markedly reduced level of CpI gene expression together with concomitant increases in CpII gene expression under nitrogen-fixing conditions. Structure-based analyses of the CpI and CpII sequences reveal variations in their catalytic sites that may contribute to their alternative physiological roles. This work demonstrates that the physiological roles of CpI and CpII are to evolve and to consume hydrogen, respectively, in concurrence with their catalytic activities in vitro, with CpII capturing excess reducing equivalents under nitrogen fixation conditions. Comparison of the primary sequences of CpI and CpII and their homologs provides an initial basis for identifying key structural determinants that modulate hydrogen production and hydrogen oxidation activities.« less

The Physiological Functions and Structural Determinants of Catalytic Bias in the [FeFe]-Hydrogenases CpI and CpII of Clostridium pasteurianum Strain W5

PubMed Central

Therien, Jesse B.; Artz, Jacob H.; Poudel, Saroj; Hamilton, Trinity L.; Liu, Zhenfeng; Noone, Seth M.; Adams, Michael W. W.; King, Paul W.; Bryant, Donald A.; Boyd, Eric S.; Peters, John W.

2017-01-01

The first generation of biochemical studies of complex, iron-sulfur-cluster-containing [FeFe]-hydrogenases and Mo-nitrogenase were carried out on enzymes purified from Clostridium pasteurianum (strain W5). Previous studies suggested that two distinct [FeFe]-hydrogenases are expressed differentially under nitrogen-fixing and non-nitrogen-fixing conditions. As a result, the first characterized [FeFe]-hydrogenase (CpI) is presumed to have a primary role in central metabolism, recycling reduced electron carriers that accumulate during fermentation via proton reduction. A role for capturing reducing equivalents released as hydrogen during nitrogen fixation has been proposed for the second hydrogenase, CpII. Biochemical characterization of CpI and CpII indicated CpI has extremely high hydrogen production activity in comparison to CpII, while CpII has elevated hydrogen oxidation activity in comparison to CpI when assayed under the same conditions. This suggests that these enzymes have evolved a catalytic bias to support their respective physiological functions. Using the published genome of C. pasteurianum (strain W5) hydrogenase sequences were identified, including the already known [NiFe]-hydrogenase, CpI, and CpII sequences, and a third hydrogenase, CpIII was identified in the genome as well. Quantitative real-time PCR experiments were performed in order to analyze transcript abundance of the hydrogenases under diazotrophic and non-diazotrophic growth conditions. There is a markedly reduced level of CpI gene expression together with concomitant increases in CpII gene expression under nitrogen-fixing conditions. Structure-based analyses of the CpI and CpII sequences reveal variations in their catalytic sites that may contribute to their alternative physiological roles. This work demonstrates that the physiological roles of CpI and CpII are to evolve and to consume hydrogen, respectively, in concurrence with their catalytic activities in vitro, with CpII capturing excess reducing equivalents under nitrogen fixation conditions. Comparison of the primary sequences of CpI and CpII and their homologs provides an initial basis for identifying key structural determinants that modulate hydrogen production and hydrogen oxidation activities. PMID:28747909

76 FR 36849 - Adjustment of Civil Money Penalty Amount for Inflation

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-06-22

..., telephone number 202-402-7687 (this is not a toll-free number). Hearing- or speech- impaired individuals may access this number via TTY by calling the toll-free Federal Relay Service at 800-877-8339. SUPPLEMENTARY.../special.requests/cpi/cpiai.txt . For June 2010 and June 1996, the CPI-U values are 217.965 and 156.7...

A Proposed Legislative Bill to Economically Index the Small Purchase Thresholds Within the Federal Government Procurement System

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-12-01

to others. IF, For example, avocados are two dollars each, a consumer may choose to have cucumber, at twenty-Five cents each, in his salad instead...in 1986, after the revision of the home ownership aspect of the CPI in 1983. The CPI is a Familiar index and despite its overly general market basket...loans by the government to enable producers to continue to produce items whose market price is less than the production price. In other words, commodity

Non-Intellective Factors in the Prediction of Academic Success of Urban College Freshmen.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fox, James Arthur

The purpose of this study was to determine which personality traits as measured by the California Psychological Inventory (CPI) are predictive of academic achievement in urban college freshmen of the Federal City College. The measures of achievement were grade point average (GPA) and the Comparative Guidance and Placement Program (CGPP) test…

An analysis of leading, lagging, and coincident economic indicators in the United States and its relationship to the volume of plastic surgery procedures performed.

PubMed

Hoppe, Ian C; Pastor, Craig J; Paik, Angie M

2012-10-01

In plastic surgery, 2 predominant practice environments exist, namely, the academic setting and private practice. These 2 groups cater their practice toward the needs and demands of 2 very different patient populations. The goal of this paper is to examine well-established economic indicators and delineate their relationship, if any, with the volume of different plastic surgical procedures performed in the United States. Information from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons' annual reports on plastic surgery statistics was collected from the year 2000 through 2010 and compared to readily available and established economic indicators. There was a significant positive relationship with total cosmetic procedures and gross domestic product (GDP), GDP per capita, personal income, consumer price index (CPI) (all), and CPI (medical). There was a significant positive relationship between cosmetic surgical procedures and the issuance of new home permits and the average prime rate charged by banks. There was a significant positive relationship with cosmetic minimally invasive procedures and GDP, GDP per capita, personal income, CPI (all), and CPI (medical). There was a significant negative relationship between reconstructive procedures and GDP, GDP per capita, personal income, CPI (all), and CPI (medical). Cosmetic minimally invasive procedures seem to be decided on relatively quickly during good economic times. Cosmetic surgical procedures seem to be more planned and less related to the economic environment. The plastic surgeon may use this relationship to tailor the focus of his or her practice to be best situated for economic fluctuations.

Seasonal variation of the particle size distribution of n-alkanes and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in urban aerosol of Guangzhou, China.

PubMed

Tang, X L; Bi, X H; Sheng, G Y; Tan, J H; Fu, J M

2006-06-01

Seasonal aerosol samples have been collected by Andersen Hi-Vol pumping system equipped with a five stage cascade impactor and a backup filter (size range: 10-7.2 microm, 7.2-3.0 microm, 3.0-1.5 microm, 1.5-0.95 microm, 0.95-0.49 microm,

An analysis of leading, lagging, and coincident economic indicators in the United States and its relationship to the volume of plastic surgery procedures performed: an update for 2012.

PubMed

Paik, Angie M; Hoppe, Ian C; Pastor, Craig J

2013-09-01

As physician compensation and reimbursement tightens throughout the United States, it is important for physicians to be aware of the influence that the economic environment has on the unique medical field of plastic and reconstructive surgery. This study will attempt to determine a relationship between the volume of different plastic surgical procedures and various economic indicators. Information from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons' annual reports on plastic surgery statistics available on the Internet (http://www.plasticsurgery.org/Media/Statistics.html) was collected from the years 2000 through 2011. Yearly economic indicators were collected from readily available Web sites. In terms of the total number of plastic surgery procedures performed, there was a significant positive relationship with GDP, GDP per capita, personal income, consumer price index (CPI) (all), and CPI (medical), and a significant negative relationship with the issuance of new home permits. There was a significant positive relationship with total cosmetic procedures and GDP, GDP per capita, personal income, CPI (all), and CPI (medical), and a significant negative relationship with the issuance of new home permits. There was a significant positive relationship between cosmetic surgical procedures and the issuance of new home permits and the average prime rate charged by banks. There was a significant positive relationship with cosmetic minimally invasive procedures and GDP, GDP per capita, personal income, CPI (all), and CPI (medical), and a significant negative relationship with the issuance of new home permits. There was a significant negative relationship between reconstructive procedures and GDP, GDP per capita, personal income, CPI (all), and CPI (medical). Cosmetic minimally invasive procedures involve less downtime, are generally less expensive than surgical options, and are widely available, making it easier for patients to decide on them quickly during good economic times. Furthermore, it is apparent that plastic surgeons must be proficient at performing minimally invasive cosmetic procedures to maintain a clientele and offer patients a more affordable option during tough economic times. This may lead to further business growth during more favorable economic times.

Updated BG Prasad socioeconomic classification, 2014: a commentary.

PubMed

Mangal, Abha; Kumar, Varun; Panesar, Sanjeet; Talwar, Richa; Raut, Deepak; Singh, Saudan

2015-01-01

Modified BG Prasad socioeconomic scale is widely used to determine the socioeconomic status of study subjects in health studies in India. It is an income-based scale and, therefore, has to be constantly updated to take inflation and depreciation of rupee into account. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) for industrial workers (IW) is used to calculate updated income categories for January 2014. Details of the calculations involved will enable young researchers to calculate specific income categories for their research work. State-specific CPI values are also available on the Department of Labour website and should be used to determine more accurate income categories for the study area.

Chronic Trauma Effects on Personality Traits in Police Officers.

PubMed

Leigh Wills, Jennifer; Schuldberg, David

2016-04-01

The impact of cumulative occupational exposure to traumatic events (TEs), posttraumatic stress (PTS) symptoms, and work environment stress on personality traits over time was examined in 38 police officers from an urban agency. California Psychological Inventory (CPI) personality trait scores from prehire evaluations were compared with follow-up CPI scores to test whether exposure to traumatic events was correlated with changes in traits from baseline to 5-10 years later. Measures of occupational TEs, PTS symptoms, and police work environment stress were administered. Mean trait scores declined on all CPI traits analyzed in the study. Trait change was evaluated using the Reliable Change Index; change in participants' scores unlikely to occur by chance ranged from 11% to 63% in the traits examined. All participants reported substantial TE exposure. PTS symptoms were correlated with steeper decline in 4 of 5 traits, with effect sizes ranging from r =  -.47 to r = -.67. Scores on measures of job-related TEs were negatively correlated with only one CPI trait (empathy) at T2 (r = -.31), and were unrelated to slope of trait change. Work environment stress was significantly related to gender, with female officers reporting higher levels of operational (r = .45) and organizational (r = .54) stress. Copyright © 2016 International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies.

Boosting compound-protein interaction prediction by deep learning.

PubMed

Tian, Kai; Shao, Mingyu; Wang, Yang; Guan, Jihong; Zhou, Shuigeng

2016-11-01

The identification of interactions between compounds and proteins plays an important role in network pharmacology and drug discovery. However, experimentally identifying compound-protein interactions (CPIs) is generally expensive and time-consuming, computational approaches are thus introduced. Among these, machine-learning based methods have achieved a considerable success. However, due to the nonlinear and imbalanced nature of biological data, many machine learning approaches have their own limitations. Recently, deep learning techniques show advantages over many state-of-the-art machine learning methods in some applications. In this study, we aim at improving the performance of CPI prediction based on deep learning, and propose a method called DL-CPI (the abbreviation of Deep Learning for Compound-Protein Interactions prediction), which employs deep neural network (DNN) to effectively learn the representations of compound-protein pairs. Extensive experiments show that DL-CPI can learn useful features of compound-protein pairs by a layerwise abstraction, and thus achieves better prediction performance than existing methods on both balanced and imbalanced datasets. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Refined avian risk assessment for chlorpyrifos in the United States.

PubMed

Moore, Dwayne R J; Teed, R Scott; Greer, Colleen D; Solomon, Keith R; Giesy, John P

2014-01-01

Refined risk assessments for birds exposed to flowable and granular formulations ofCPY were conducted for a range of current use patterns in the United States. Overall,the collective evidence from the modeling and field study lines of evidence indicate that flowable and granular CPY do not pose significant risks to the bird communities foraging in agro-ecosystems in the United States. The available information indicates that avian incidents resulting from the legal, registered uses of CPY have been very infrequent since 2002 (see SI Appendix 3). The small number of recent incidents suggests that the current labels for CPY are generally protective of birds.However, incident data are uncertain because of the difficulties associated with finding dead birds in the field and linking any mortality observed to CPY.Plowable CPY is registered for a variety of crops in the United States including alfalfa, brassica vegetables, citrus, corn, cotton, grape, mint, onion, peanut, pome and stone fruits, soybean, sugar beet, sunflower, sweet potato, tree nuts, and wheat under the trade name Lorsban Advanced. The major routes of exposure for birds to flowable CPY were consumption of treated dietary items and drinking water. The Liquid Pesticide Avian Risk Assessment Model (Liquid PARAM) was used to simulate avian ingestion of CPY by these routes of exposure. For acute exposure,Liquid PARAM estimated the maximum retained dose in each of 20 birds on each of1,000 fields that were treated with CPY over the 60-d period following initial application.The model used a 1-h time step. For species lacking acceptable acute oral toxicity data (all focal species except northern bobwhite (C. virginianus) and redwinged blackbird (A. phoeniceus)), a species sensitivity distribution (SSD) approach was used to generate hypothetical dose-response curves assuming high, median and low sensitivity to CPY. For acute risk, risk curves were generated for each use pattern and exposure scenario. The risk curves show the relationship between exceedence probability and percent mortality. The results of the Liquid PARAM modeling exercise indicate that flow able CPY poses an acute risk to some bird species, particularly those species that are highly sensitive and that forage extensively in crops with high maximum application rates (e.g., grapefruit, orange). Overall, most bird species would not experience significant mortality as a result of exposure to flowable CPY.The results of a number of field studies conducted at application rates comparable to those on the Lorsban Advanced label indicate that flowable CPY rarely causes avian mortality. The results of the field studies suggest that Liquid PARAM is likely over-estimating acute risk to birds for flowable CPY.For chronic exposure, Liquid PARAM estimated the maximum total daily intake (TDI) over a user-specified exposure duration (28-d in the case of CPY).The maximum average TDI was compared to the chronic NOEL and LOEL from the most sensitive species tested for CPY, the mallard. This comparison was done for each of the 20 birds in each of the 1000 fields simulated in Liquid PARAM.The outpu· ~ are estimates of the probabilities of exceeding the NOEL and LOEL.Liquid PAkAM did not predict significant adverse effects resulting from chronic exposure to flowable CPY. The small number of incidents (2) involving CPY reported since 2002 suggests that the current labels for CPY are generally protective of birds.Granular CPY is registered for a wide variety of crops including brassica vegetables, corn, onion, peanut, sugar beet, sunflower, and tobacco under the trade name Lorsban 15G. Consumption of grit is required by many birds to aid in digestion of hard dietary items such as seeds and insects. Because CPY granules are in the same size range as natural grit particles consumed by birds, there is a potential for birds to mistakenly ingest granular CPY instead of natural grit. We developed the Granular Pesticide Avian Risk Model (GranPARAM) to simulate grit ingestion behavior by birds. The model accounts for proportion of time that birds forage for grit in treated fields, relative proportions of natural grit versus pesticide granules onthe surface of treated fields, rates of ingestion of grit, attractiveness of pesticide granules relative to natural grit and so on. For CPY, each model simulation included20 birds on each of 1,000 fields to capture variability in rates of ingestion of grit and for aging behavior between birds within a focal species, and variability in soil composition between fields for the selected use pattern. The estimated dose for each birdwas compared with randomly chosen doses from relevant dose-response curves forCPY. Our analysis for a wide variety of use patterns on the Lorsban 15G label found that granular CPY poses little risk of causing mortality to bird species that frequent treated fields immediately after application. The predictions of the model have been confirmed in several avian field studies conducted with Lorsban 15G at application rates similar to or exceeding maximum application rates on the Lorsban 15G label.

Dental health status and treatment needs of transport workers of a northern Indian city: A cross-sectional study

PubMed Central

Gambhir, Ramandeep S.; Sogi, Girish M.; Veeresha, Koratagere Lingappa; Sohi, Ramandeep K.; Randhawa, Amaninder; Kakar, Heena

2013-01-01

Aim: To assess the dental health status and treatment needs of transport workers working in Chandigarh Transport Undertaking (C.T.U.) buses, Chandigarh. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on all the available C.T.U. workers at all three bus depots. The data were recorded on a modified W.H.O. format (1997). A total of 1008 subjects constituted the final sample size. Results: The mean age of the subjects was 45.3 ± 7.8 years, and 97% (978) were males. Prevalence of dental caries was 63.4% and mean DMFT was 5.02. 47.6% of subjects needed some prosthesis in the maxillary arch while 53.3% needed some prosthesis in the mandibular arch. Regarding highest CPI (Community Periodontal Index) score, 8.13% of the subjects had healthy periodontium while maximum subjects (73.2%) had a score 2 (Calculus). Conclusion: Mean DMFT (Decayed, Missing and Filled Teeth) was satisfactory. Prosthetic need of the subjects was high with only a few subjects possessing prosthesis. Advanced periodontal disease (CPI score, 4) affected small number of subjects with maximum subjects (73%) having a CPI score of 2. PMID:24082750

Assessing rear-end collision risk of cars and heavy vehicles on freeways using a surrogate safety measure.

PubMed

Zhao, Peibo; Lee, Chris

2018-04-01

This study analyzes rear-end collision risk of cars and heavy vehicles on freeways using a surrogate safety measure. The crash potential index (CPI) was modified to reflect driver's reaction time and estimated by types of lead and following vehicles (car or heavy vehicle). CPIs were estimated using the individual vehicle trajectory data from a segment of the US-101 freeway in Los Angeles, U.S.A. It was found that the CPI was generally higher for the following heavy vehicle than the following car due to heavy vehicle's lower braking capability. This study also validates the CPI using the simulated traffic data which replicate the observed traffic conditions a few minutes before the crash time upstream and downstream of the crash locations. The observed data were obtained from crash records and loop detectors on a section of the Gardiner Expressway in Toronto, Canada. The result shows that the values of CPI were consistently higher during the traffic conditions immediately before the crash time (crash case) than the normal traffic conditions (non-crash case). This demonstrates that the CPI can be used to capture rear-end collision risk during car-following maneuver on freeways. The result also shows that rear-end collision risk is lower for heavy vehicles than cars in the crash case due to their shorter reaction time and lower speed when spacing is shorter. Thus, it is important to reflect the differences in driver behavior and vehicle performance characteristics between cars and heavy vehicles in estimating surrogate safety measures. Lastly, it was found that the CPI-based crash prediction model can correctly identify the crash and non-crash cases at higher accuracy than the other crash prediction models based on detectors. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

78 FR 13521 - Great Lakes Pilotage Rates-2013 Annual Review and Adjustment

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-02-28

... Reconciliation Act CPA Certified Public Accountant CPI Consumer Price Index E.O. Executive Order FR Federal... contract with independent accountants to assist in that review. This final rule is based on the review of... reports of the independent accountants, before the review is finalized. Comments by the pilots...

78 FR 48374 - Great Lakes Pilotage Rates-2014 Annual Review and Adjustment

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-08-08

... public accountant CPI Consumer Price Index E.O. Executive Order FR Federal Register GLPAC Great Lakes... contract with independent accountants to assist in that review. We have now completed our review of the independent accountants' 2011 financial reports. The comments by the pilot associations on those reports and...

Calculating the Candy Price Index: A Classroom Inflation Experiment.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hazlett, Denise; Hill, Cynthia D.

2003-01-01

Outlines how students develop a price index based on candy-purchasing decisions made by class members. Explains that students used the index to practice calculating inflation rates and to consider the strengths and weaknesses of the consumer price index (CPI). States that the exercise has been used in introductory and intermediate macroeconomics…

College Costs: Recent Trends, Likely Future. Policy Brief.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Henderson, Cathy

Recent trends in college costs and reasons why college costs have been increasing are considered. Comparative data are presented on recent rates of growth among average college charges, faculty salaries, the Higher Education Price Index (HEPI), and the Consumer Price Index (CPI). It is shown that from 1977 through 1982, average total tuition,…

77 FR 31600 - Federal Need Analysis Methodology for the 2013-2014 Award Year: Federal Pell Grant, Federal...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-05-29

... DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Federal Need Analysis Methodology for the 2013-2014 Award Year: Federal... student's expected family contribution (EFC) for award year 2013-2014 for the student financial aid... in the Consumer Price Index (CPI). For award year 2013-2014, the Secretary is charged with updating...

77 FR 20011 - Fair Credit Reporting Act Disclosures

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-03

... Credit Reporting Act (``FCRA'') will increase from $11.00 to $11.50 effective April 3, 2012. The Bureau is required to increase the $8.00 amount referred to in Section 612(f)(1)(A)(i) of the FCRA on January 1 of each year, based proportionally on changes in the Consumer Price Index (``CPI''), with...

Progress in CPI Microwave Tube Development

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wright, Edward L.; Bohlen, Heinz

2006-01-01

CPI continues its role as a leading supplier of state-of-the-art, high-power microwave tubes; from linear beam, velocity- and density-modulated devices, to high frequency gyro-devices. Klystrons are the device-of-choice for many high-power microwave applications, and can provide multi-megawatts to multi-kilowatts of power from UHF to W-band, respectively. A number of recent and on-going developments will be described. At UHF frequencies, the inductive output tube (IOT) has replaced the klystron for terrestrial NTSC and HDTV broadcast, due to its high efficiency and linearity, and is beginning to see use in scientific applications requiring 300 kW or less. Recent advances have enabled use well into L-band. CPI has developed a number of multiple-beam amplifiers. The VKL-8301 multiple-beam klystron (MBK) was built for the TESLA V/UV and x-ray FEL projects, and is a candidate RF source for the International Linear Collider (ILC). We have also contributed to the development of the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) high-power fundamental-mode S-band MBK. The VHP-8330B multiple-beam, high-order mode (HOM) IOT shows great promise as a compact, CW UHF source for high power applications. These topics will be discussed, along with CPI's development capabilities for new and novel applications. Most important is our availability to provide design and fabrication services to organizations requiring CPI's manufacturing and process control infrastructure to build and test state-of-the-art devices.

Even under Obama's Plan, Pell Grants Trail Tuition

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Field, Kelly

2009-01-01

Making Pell Grants an entitlement and tying the maximum award to a measure of inflation, as President Obama has proposed, would probably yield larger awards and stop the cycle of shortfalls that have plagued the program. The president's plan, which would index the maximum award to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) plus one percentage point, probably…

Explaining EIA Crude Oil and Petroleum Product Price Data and Comparing with Other U.S. Government Data Sources, 2001 to 2010

EIA Publications

2012-01-01

This article describes the sampling frames and basic data collection methods for petroleum price data reported by Energy Information Administration (EIA) and other Government agencies. In addition, it compares and contrasts annual average prices reported by EIA with comparable prices from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) CPI (Consumer Price Indexes) for the retail prices of residential No. 2 distillate, on-highway diesel fuel and motor gasoline (all grades.) Further, it compares refiner wholesale/resale prices for No. 2 fuel oil, No. 2 diesel fuel, motor gasoline (all grades,) kerosene-type jet fuel and residual fuel oil reported by EIA with comparable prices from the BLS PPI (Producer Price Index.) A discussion of the various crude oil prices and spot/futures prices published by EIA and other Government agencies is also included in the article.

Measuring the uncertainty of coupling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Xiaojun; Shang, Pengjian

2015-06-01

A new information-theoretic measure, called coupling entropy, is proposed here to detect the causal links in complex systems by taking into account the inner composition alignment of temporal structure. It is a permutation-based asymmetric association measure to infer the uncertainty of coupling between two time series. The coupling entropy is found to be effective in the analysis of Hénon maps, where different noises are added to test its accuracy and sensitivity. The coupling entropy is also applied to analyze the relationship between unemployment rate and CPI change in the U.S., where the CPI change turns out to be the driving variable while the unemployment rate is the responding one.

Increase the Government Purchase Card Limit

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-06-01

Acquisition BPA blanket purchase agreement CCPMD Consolidated Card Program Management Division COTS commercial, off-the-shelf CPI consumer price index...purchase agreements ( BPA ) or indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity (ID/IQ) contracts for repetitive orders. This authority is discussed further in...where they can purchase up to $150,000 in supplies from established mandatory sources and BPAs , for example. (3) Fewer commands have “ordering 2

Analysis of Artificial Neural Network Backpropagation Using Conjugate Gradient Fletcher Reeves In The Predicting Process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wanto, Anjar; Zarlis, Muhammad; Sawaluddin; Hartama, Dedy

2017-12-01

Backpropagation is a good artificial neural network algorithm used to predict, one of which is to predict the rate of Consumer Price Index (CPI) based on the foodstuff sector. While conjugate gradient fletcher reeves is a suitable optimization method when juxtaposed with backpropagation method, because this method can shorten iteration without reducing the quality of training and testing result. Consumer Price Index (CPI) data that will be predicted to come from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) Pematangsiantar. The results of this study will be expected to contribute to the government in making policies to improve economic growth. In this study, the data obtained will be processed by conducting training and testing with artificial neural network backpropagation by using parameter learning rate 0,01 and target error minimum that is 0.001-0,09. The training network is built with binary and bipolar sigmoid activation functions. After the results with backpropagation are obtained, it will then be optimized using the conjugate gradient fletcher reeves method by conducting the same training and testing based on 5 predefined network architectures. The result, the method used can increase the speed and accuracy result.

Nuclear localization of CPI-17, a protein phosphatase-1 inhibitor protein, affects histone H3 phosphorylation and corresponds to proliferation of cancer and smooth muscle cells

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

Eto, Masumi, E-mail: masumi.eto@jefferson.edu; Kirkbride, Jason A.; Chugh, Rishika

2013-04-26

Highlights: •Non-canonical roles of the myosin phosphatase inhibitor (CPI-17) were studied. •CPI-17 is localized in the nucleus of hyperplastic cancer and smooth muscle cells. •CPI-17 Ser12 phosphorylation may regulate the nuclear import. •CPI-17 regulates histone H3 phosphorylation and cell proliferation. •The nuclear CPI-17-PP1 axis plays a proliferative role in cells. -- Abstract: CPI-17 (C-kinase-activated protein phosphatase-1 (PP1) inhibitor, 17 kDa) is a cytoplasmic protein predominantly expressed in mature smooth muscle (SM) that regulates the myosin-associated PP1 holoenzyme (MLCP). Here, we show CPI-17 expression in proliferating cells, such as pancreatic cancer and hyperplastic SM cells. Immunofluorescence showed that CPI-17 was concentratedmore » in nuclei of human pancreatic cancer (Panc1) cells. Nuclear accumulation of CPI-17 was also detected in the proliferating vascular SM cell culture and cells at neointima of rat vascular injury model. The N-terminal 21-residue tail domain of CPI-17 was necessary for the nuclear localization. Phospho-mimetic Asp-substitution of CPI-17 at Ser12 attenuated the nuclear import. CPI-17 phosphorylated at Ser12 was not localized at nuclei, suggesting a suppressive role of Ser12 phosphorylation in the nuclear import. Activated CPI-17 bound to all three isoforms of PP1 catalytic subunit in Panc1 nuclear extracts. CPI-17 knockdown in Panc1 resulted in dephosphorylation of histone H3 at Thr3, Ser10 and Thr11, whereas it had no effects on the phosphorylation of myosin light chain and merlin, the known targets of MLCP. In parallel, CPI-17 knockdown suppressed Panc1 proliferation. We propose that CPI-17 accumulated in the nucleus through the N-terminal tail targets multiple PP1 signaling pathways regulating cell proliferation.« less

A vacuolar carboxypeptidase mutant of Arabidopsis thaliana is degraded by the ERAD pathway independently of its N-glycan

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

Yamamoto, Masaya; Kawanabe, Mitsuyoshi; Hayashi, Yoko

2010-03-12

Misfolded proteins produced in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) are degraded by a mechanism, the ER-associated degradation (ERAD). Here we report establishment of the experimental system to analyze the ERAD in plant cells. Carboxypeptidase Y (CPY) is a vacuolar enzyme and its mutant CPY* is degraded by the ERAD in yeast. Since Arabidopsis thaliana has AtCPY, an ortholog of yeast CPY, we constructed and expressed fusion proteins consisting of AtCPY and GFP and of AtCPY*, which carries a mutation homologous to yeast CPY*, and GFP in A. thaliana cells. While AtCPY-GFP was efficiently transported to the vacuole, AtCPY*-GFP was retained inmore » the ER to be degraded in proteasome- and Cdc48-dependent manners. We also found that AtCPY*-GFP was degraded by the ERAD in yeast cells, but that its single N-glycan did not function as a degradation signal in yeast or plant cells. Therefore, AtCPY*-GFP can be used as a marker protein to analyze the ERAD pathway, likely for nonglycosylated substrates, in plant cells.« less

Unfair competition governs the interaction of pCPI-17 with myosin phosphatase (PP1-MYPT1)

PubMed Central

Filter, Joshua J; Williams, Byron C; Eto, Masumi; Shalloway, David; Goldberg, Michael L

2017-01-01

The small phosphoprotein pCPI-17 inhibits myosin light-chain phosphatase (MLCP). Current models postulate that during muscle relaxation, phosphatases other than MLCP dephosphorylate and inactivate pCPI-17 to restore MLCP activity. We show here that such hypotheses are insufficient to account for the observed rapidity of pCPI-17 inactivation in mammalian smooth muscles. Instead, MLCP itself is the critical enzyme for pCPI-17 dephosphorylation. We call the mutual sequestration mechanism through which pCPI-17 and MLCP interact inhibition by unfair competition: MLCP protects pCPI-17 from other phosphatases, while pCPI-17 blocks other substrates from MLCP’s active site. MLCP dephosphorylates pCPI-17 at a slow rate that is, nonetheless, both sufficient and necessary to explain the speed of pCPI-17 dephosphorylation and the consequent MLCP activation during muscle relaxation. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.24665.001 PMID:28387646

Power Scaling of Petroleum Field Sizes and Movie Box Office Earnings.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haley, J. A.; Barton, C. C.

2017-12-01

The size-cumulative frequency distribution of petroleum fields has long been shown to be power scaling, Mandelbrot, 1963, and Barton and Scholz, 1995. The scaling exponents for petroleum field volumes range from 0.8 to 1.08 worldwide and are used to assess the size and number of undiscovered fields. The size-cumulative frequency distribution of movie box office earnings also exhibits a power scaling distribution for domestic, overseas, and worldwide gross box office earnings for the top 668 earning movies released between 1939 and 2016 (http://www.boxofficemojo.com/alltime/). Box office earnings were reported in the dollars-of-the-day and were converted to 2015 U.S. dollars using the U.S. consumer price index (CPI) for domestic and overseas earnings. Because overseas earnings are not reported by country and there is no single inflation index appropriate for all overseas countries. Adjusting the box office earnings using the CPI index has two effects on the power functions fit. The first is that the scaling exponent has a narrow range (2.3 - 2.5) between the three data sets; and second, the scatter of the data points fit by the power function is reduced. The scaling exponents for the adjusted value are; 2.3 for domestic box office earnings, 2.5 for overseas box office earnings, and 2.5 worldwide box office earnings. The smaller the scaling exponent the greater the proportion of all earnings is contributed by a smaller proportion of all the movies: where E = P (a-2)/(a-1) where E is the percentage of earnings, P is the percentage of all movies in the data set. The scaling exponents for box office earnings (2.3 - 2.5) means that approximately 20% of the top earning movies contribute 70-55% of all the earnings for domestic, worldwide earnings respectively.

Hospitalisation charges for fibromyalgia in the United States, 1999-2007.

PubMed

Haviland, Mark G; Banta, Jim E; Przekop, Peter

2012-01-01

To estimate fibromyalgia (FM) hospitalisation costs (i.e. charges) for patients in the United States from 1999 to 2007; to determine factors associated with variation in costs of FM and non-FM hospitalisations; and to investigate hospital procedures associated with FM hospitalisations. Data were from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample, a large database of hospitalisations in the U.S. Over the study period, an estimated 63,772 patients - two-thirds women, one-third men - had been hospitalised for FM (FM criterion was the International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, Clinical Modification diagnosis code 729.1, Myositis and Myalgia, unspecified). Demographics and hospital characteristics were described with frequencies and mean inflation-adjusted charges. Two multivariable linear regressions (one for FM and a second for non-FM patients), with Consumer Price Index (CPI)-adjusted charges (hospital and related services category) in thousands of dollars as the dependent variable, were performed, excluding cases with masked or missing data. Procedures were categorised with a standard classification scheme. Survey-adjusted total CPI-adjusted charges over the study period were estimated to be approximately $1.0 billion. Hospital procedures and Charlson-Deyo Index (co-morbidity severity) scores were the strongest predictors of charges in bivariate and multivariate analyses (for both FM and non-FM patients). The majority of procedures for FM patients were related to musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, or cardiovascular systems. Most FM patients, however, did not have any procedure or a life-threatening co-morbid illness. Over the nine-year period, hospital charges for FM were substantial. Studies of how to reduce or avoid these costs in the treatment of FM need to be undertaken.

20 CFR 30.801 - What special definitions does OWCP use in connection with Part E wage-loss determinations?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

...) provisions of the Social Security Act. In general, persons born during or before 1937 are eligible for... (CPI-U), as produced by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, to reflect their value in the year during which...

20 CFR 30.801 - What special definitions does OWCP use in connection with Part E wage-loss determinations?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

...) provisions of the Social Security Act. In general, persons born during or before 1937 are eligible for... (CPI-U), as produced by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, to reflect their value in the year during which...

Long-term outcomes of a cell phone-delivered intervention for smokers living with HIV/AIDS.

PubMed

Gritz, Ellen R; Danysh, Heather E; Fletcher, Faith E; Tami-Maury, Irene; Fingeret, Michelle Cororve; King, Rachel Marks; Arduino, Roberto C; Vidrine, Damon J

2013-08-01

People living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/AIDS (PLWHA) have a substantially higher prevalence of cigarette smoking compared to the general population. In addition, PLWHA are particularly susceptible to the adverse health effects of smoking. Our primary objective was to design and test the efficacy over 12 months of a smoking cessation intervention targeting PLWHA. Participants were enrolled from an urban HIV clinic with a multiethnic and economically disadvantaged patient population. Participants received smoking cessation treatment either through usual care (UC) or counseling delivered by a cell phone intervention (CPI). The 7-day point prevalence abstinence was evaluated at 3, 6, and 12 months using logistic regression and generalized linear mixed models. We randomized 474 HIV-positive smokers to either the UC or CPI group. When evaluating the overall treatment effect (7-day abstinence outcomes from 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-ups), participants in the CPI group were 2.41 times (P = .049) more likely to demonstrate abstinence compared to the UC group. The treatment effect was strongest at the 3-month follow-up (odds ratio = 4.3, P < .001), but diminished at 6 and 12 months (P > .05). Cell phone-delivered smoking cessation treatment has a positive impact on abstinence rates compared to a usual care approach. Future research should focus on strategies for sustaining the treatment effect in the long term.

39 CFR 3010.12 - Contents of notice of rate adjustment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... information must be supported by workpapers in which all calculations are shown and all input values, including all relevant CPI-U values, are listed with citations to the original sources. (2) A schedule... input values, including current rates, new rates, and billing determinants, are listed with citations to...

Catalytic Activity and Proton Translocation of Reconstituted Respiratory Complex I Monitored by Surface-Enhanced Infrared Absorption Spectroscopy.

PubMed

Gutiérrez-Sanz, Oscar; Forbrig, Enrico; Batista, Ana P; Pereira, Manuela M; Salewski, Johannes; Mroginski, Maria A; Götz, Robert; De Lacey, Antonio L; Kozuch, Jacek; Zebger, Ingo

2018-05-22

Respiratory complex I (CpI) is a key player in the way organisms obtain energy, being an energy transducer, which couples nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH)/quinone oxidoreduction with proton translocation by a mechanism that remains elusive so far. In this work, we monitored the function of CpI in a biomimetic, supported lipid membrane system assembled on a 4-aminothiophenol (4-ATP) self-assembled monolayer by surface-enhanced infrared absorption spectroscopy. 4-ATP serves not only as a linker molecule to a nanostructured gold surface but also as pH sensor, as indicated by concomitant density functional theory calculations. In this way, we were able to monitor NADH/quinone oxidoreduction-induced transmembrane proton translocation via the protonation state of 4-ATP, depending on the net orientation of CpI molecules induced by two complementary approaches. An associated change of the amide I/amide II band intensity ratio indicates conformational modifications upon catalysis which may involve movements of transmembrane helices or other secondary structural elements, as suggested in the literature [ Di Luca , Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. , 2017 , 114 , E6314 - E6321 ].

The periodontal health of Nepalese schoolchildren.

PubMed

Yeel, R; David, J; Lama, D

2009-12-01

To report on the periodontal status of schoolchildren in urban and rural Nepal and to identify possible risk indicators of poor periodontal health. Cross-sectional 'pathfinder' survey using the stratified cluster sampling technique included seven urban and nine rural sites representing the three geographic divisions and five political regions of Nepal. Second stage sampling involved the random selection of 25 schools (18 government and seven private). Final study population consisted of three age groups: 5-6-years (n=1025), 12-13-years (n=1037) and 15-16-years (n=1053). Periodontal data was collected using CPI based on WHO methodology and criteria by trained examiners. A structured questionnaire was administered to collect information on oral health behavior and socio-economic status. A gradual decline in the mean number of healthy sextants was noted with an increase in age among the schoolchildren. Males and females within a specific school and area showed no statistical significant difference when assessed for differences in score 0 (healthy periodontium) among all age groups except for 15-16-year-olds studying in government-urban schools. Multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that children 5 to 6 years of age studying in government urban (Adjusted Odds Ratio = 1.5, 95% Confidence Interval = 1.1-2.1) and government rural schools (Adj OR = 2.8, 95% CI 1.9-4.1) were at higher risk of having periodontal conditions (CPI scores >0) when compared to those in private urban schools. The probability of poorer periodontal status increased for 12 to 13 (Adjusted OR = 1.9, 95% CI 1.3-2.9) and 15 to 16-year-old children (Adjusted OR = 1.7, 95% CI 1.1-2.5) who studied in government rural schools. A steady increase in periodontal conditions was observed with increasing age. The main risk indicator for unhealthy periodontal status at 5-6 years was studying and residing in government rural and urban schools; while the indicator of unhealthy periodontal status for children 12 to 13 and 15 to 16 years of age was studying in rural government schools.

Partial purification and characterization of cysteine proteinase inhibitor from chicken plasma.

PubMed

Rawdkuen, Saroat; Benjakul, Soottawat; Visessanguan, Wonnop; Lanier, Tyre C

2006-08-01

A high-molecular-weight cysteine proteinase inhibitor (CPI) was purified from chicken (Gallus gallus) plasma using polyethylene glycol (PEG) fractionation and affinity chromatography on carboxymethyl-papain-Sepharose-4B. The CPI was purified 96.8-fold with a yield of 28.9%. Based on inhibitory activity staining for papain, CPI was shown to have an apparent molecular mass of 122 kDa. No inhibitory activity was obtained under reducing condition, indicating that CPI from chicken plasma was stabilized by disulfide bonds. CPI was stable in temperature ranges from 40 to 70 degrees C for 10 min; however, more than 50% of the inhibitory activity towards papain was lost within 30 min of heating at 90 degrees C. CPI was stable in the presence of salt up to 3%. The purified CPI exhibited the inhibitory activity toward autolysis of arrowtooth flounder (Atheresthes stomias) and Pacific whiting (Merluccius productus) natural actomyosin (NAM) in a concentration-dependent manner.

Periodontal health and treatment needs among hospitalized chronic psychiatric patients in Istanbul, Turkey.

PubMed

Gurbuz, O; Alatas, G; Kurt, E; Dogan, F; Issever, H

2011-03-01

The aim of the study was to evaluate the periodontal health and treatment needs of chronically hospitalized psychiatric patients in Istanbul, Turkey. The subjects' periodontal health was recorded by the CPI (Community Periodontal Index) method. Of the 330 patients examined, 179 (52.5%) were males and 151 (47.5%) females. The mean age of the patients was 49.2 +/- 11.7 years. The majority (61.8%) was diagnosed with schizophrenia and 30.6% diagnosed with mental retardation. The mean length of hospitalization was 16.0 +/- 10.9 years. Healthy periodontal tissues (CPI 0) were found in 8.8% of the subjects. Bleeding on probing (CPI 1) was recorded in 6.3%, and dental calculus (CPI 2) in 51.8% of the subjects. These were determined as the worst findings. Altogether, 33% of the subjects had deep periodontal pockets, 14.2% with at least one 4- to 5-mm pocket (CPI 3), and 18.8% with at least one 6-mm pocket (CPI 4). The stepwise logistic regression analysis, between the final CPI score and seven variables including age, gender, psychiatric diagnosis, length of hospitalization, degree of helplessness, tooth brushing habits and smoking, showed that irregular tooth brushing habits and male gender were significant contributors to having a final CPI score of 2 or more. The regression analysis also showed that tooth brushing habits remained as an explanatory variable in CPI 0 coded subjects; helplessness and psychiatric diagnosis (mental retardation) in CPI 2; tooth brushing habits and psychiatric diagnosis (schizophrenia) in CPI 3; and only helplessness in CPI 4. The present study underlines a considerable need for prevention and treatment of periodontal disease among chronic psychiatric patients in Istanbul. Efforts need to be focused above all on raising this population's awareness of the importance of oral hygiene and on early diagnosis of periodontal problems.

A Method for Mapping Future Urbanization in the United States

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bounoua, Lahouari; Nigro, Joseph; Thome, Kurtis; Zhang, Ping; Fathi, Najlaa; Lachir, Asia

2018-01-01

Cities are poised to absorb additional people. Their sustainability, or ability to accommodate a population increase without depleting resources or compromising future growth, depends on whether they harness the efficiency gains from urban land management. Population is often projected as a bulk national number without details about spatial distribution. We use Landsat and population data in a methodology to project and map U.S. urbanization for the year 2020 and document its spatial pattern. This methodology is important to spatially disaggregate projected population and assist land managers to monitor land use, assess infrastructure and distribute resources. We found the U.S. west coast urban areas to have the fastest population growth with relatively small land consumption resulting in future decrease in per capita land use. Except for Miami (FL), most other U.S. large urban areas, especially in the Midwest, are growing spatially faster than their population and inadvertently consuming land needed for ecosystem services. In large cities, such as New York, Chicago, Houston and Miami, land development is expected more in suburban zones than urban cores. In contrast, in Los Angeles land development within the city core is greater than in its suburbs.

Analysis of U.S. household wood energy consumption: 1967-2009

Treesearch

Nianfu Song; Francisco X. Aguilar; Stephen R. Shifley; Michael E. Goerndt

2012-01-01

The residential sector consumes about 23% of the energy derived from wood (wood energy) in the U.S. An estimated error correction model with data from 1967 to 2009 suggests that residential wood energy consumption has declined by an average 3% per year in response to technological progress, urbanization, accessibility of non-wood energy, and other factors associated...

Transportation Energy Conservation Data Book: A Selected Bibliography. Edition 3,

DTIC Science & Technology

1978-11-01

Charlottesville, VA 22901 TITLE: Couputer-Based Resource Accounting Model TT1.1: Methodology for the Design of Urban for Automobile Technology Impact...Evaluation System ACCOUNTING; INDUSTRIAL SECTOR; ENERGY tPIESi Documentation. volume 6. CONSUM PTION: PERFORANCE: DESIGN : NASTE MEAT: Methodology for... Methodology for the Design of Urban Transportation 000172 Energy Flows In the U.S., 1973 and 1974. Volume 1: Methodology * $opdate to the Fational Energy

10 CFR 765.12 - Inflation index adjustment procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 10 Energy 4 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Inflation index adjustment procedures. 765.12 Section 765.12 Energy DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY REIMBURSEMENT FOR COSTS OF REMEDIAL ACTION AT ACTIVE URANIUM AND... Department shall adjust annually, using the CPI-U as defined in this part, amounts paid to an active uranium...

10 CFR 765.12 - Inflation index adjustment procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 10 Energy 4 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Inflation index adjustment procedures. 765.12 Section 765.12 Energy DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY REIMBURSEMENT FOR COSTS OF REMEDIAL ACTION AT ACTIVE URANIUM AND... Department shall adjust annually, using the CPI-U as defined in this part, amounts paid to an active uranium...

10 CFR 765.12 - Inflation index adjustment procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 10 Energy 4 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Inflation index adjustment procedures. 765.12 Section 765.12 Energy DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY REIMBURSEMENT FOR COSTS OF REMEDIAL ACTION AT ACTIVE URANIUM AND... Department shall adjust annually, using the CPI-U as defined in this part, amounts paid to an active uranium...

10 CFR 765.12 - Inflation index adjustment procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 10 Energy 4 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Inflation index adjustment procedures. 765.12 Section 765.12 Energy DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY REIMBURSEMENT FOR COSTS OF REMEDIAL ACTION AT ACTIVE URANIUM AND... Department shall adjust annually, using the CPI-U as defined in this part, amounts paid to an active uranium...

10 CFR 765.12 - Inflation index adjustment procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 10 Energy 4 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Inflation index adjustment procedures. 765.12 Section 765.12 Energy DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY REIMBURSEMENT FOR COSTS OF REMEDIAL ACTION AT ACTIVE URANIUM AND... Department shall adjust annually, using the CPI-U as defined in this part, amounts paid to an active uranium...

JPRS Report Near East & South Asia

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-03-19

not raising its voice? And why should the Congress appear to take a pro-U.S. line when it had consistently sided with the underdog ? It has not been...the issue of branding China as the aggressor brought about a complete break in the fraternal relations between the CPI and CPC. For over two decades

Highly flexible InSnO electrodes on thin colourless polyimide substrate for high-performance flexible CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Jeong-Il; Heo, Jin Hyuck; Park, Sung-Hyun; Hong, Ki Il; Jeong, Hak Gee; Im, Sang Hyuk; Kim, Han-Ki

2017-02-01

We fabricated high-performance flexible CH3NH3PbI3 (MAPbI3) perovskite solar cells with a power conversion efficiency of 15.5% on roll-to-roll sputtered ITO films on 60 μm-thick colourless polyimide (CPI) substrate. Due to the thermal stability of the CPI substrate, an ITO/CPI sample subjected to rapid thermal annealing at 300 °C showed a low sheet resistance of 57.8 Ω/square and high transmittance of 83.6%, which are better values than those of an ITO/PET sample. Outer and inner bending tests demonstrated that the mechanical flexibility of the ITO/CPI was superior to that of the conventional ITO/PET sample owing to the thinness of the CPI substrate. In addition, due to its good mechanical flexibility, the ITO/CPI showed no change in resistance after 10,000 cycle outer and inner dynamic fatigue tests. Flexible perovskite solar cells with the structure of Au/PTAA/MAPbI3/ZnO/ITO/CPI showed a high power conversion efficiency of 15.5%. The successful operation of these flexible perovskite solar cells on ITO/CPI substrate indicated that the ITO film on thermally stable CPI substrate is a promising of flexible substrate for high-temperature processing, a finding likely to advance the commercialization of cost-efficient flexible perovskite solar cells.

5 CFR 591.226 - How does OPM apply the CPIs?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... survey. (1) Step 1. OPM computes the annual or biennial CPI change for the COLA area. (2) Step 2. OPM computes the annual or biennial CPI change for the DC area. (3) Step 3. OPM multiplies the COLA area price index from the last survey by the COLA area CPI change computed in step 1 divided by the DC area CPI...

5 CFR 591.226 - How does OPM apply the CPIs?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... survey. (1) Step 1. OPM computes the annual or biennial CPI change for the COLA area. (2) Step 2. OPM computes the annual or biennial CPI change for the DC area. (3) Step 3. OPM multiplies the COLA area price index from the last survey by the COLA area CPI change computed in step 1 divided by the DC area CPI...

5 CFR 591.226 - How does OPM apply the CPIs?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... survey. (1) Step 1. OPM computes the annual or biennial CPI change for the COLA area. (2) Step 2. OPM computes the annual or biennial CPI change for the DC area. (3) Step 3. OPM multiplies the COLA area price index from the last survey by the COLA area CPI change computed in step 1 divided by the DC area CPI...

5 CFR 591.226 - How does OPM apply the CPIs?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... survey. (1) Step 1. OPM computes the annual or biennial CPI change for the COLA area. (2) Step 2. OPM computes the annual or biennial CPI change for the DC area. (3) Step 3. OPM multiplies the COLA area price index from the last survey by the COLA area CPI change computed in step 1 divided by the DC area CPI...

5 CFR 591.226 - How does OPM apply the CPIs?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... survey. (1) Step 1. OPM computes the annual or biennial CPI change for the COLA area. (2) Step 2. OPM computes the annual or biennial CPI change for the DC area. (3) Step 3. OPM multiplies the COLA area price index from the last survey by the COLA area CPI change computed in step 1 divided by the DC area CPI...

PIV Flow Field Measurements of Hovering Rotors with Leading Edge Protuberances

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-05-22

CP P/ R CP P / R CPi CP CP C / / CT T / R CP / CT / F M P /P M Nb P...c c c c c CT / ± . × CP / ± . × μ dt M b R Nb /Nb dt dt dt μ μ f c c c c c c c c T P CT CP T CT A R P CP A R A R R V r...ps x y Vp · dps × Vp · dps n n n Vpi · ps × Vpi · ps u u u/ u u u/ i i i CT / CP / CT / . CT / . F M CP / CP CT /

Does Size Matter? Scaling of CO2 Emissions and U.S. Urban Areas

PubMed Central

Fragkias, Michail; Lobo, José; Strumsky, Deborah; Seto, Karen C.

2013-01-01

Urban areas consume more than 66% of the world’s energy and generate more than 70% of global greenhouse gas emissions. With the world’s population expected to reach 10 billion by 2100, nearly 90% of whom will live in urban areas, a critical question for planetary sustainability is how the size of cities affects energy use and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Are larger cities more energy and emissions efficient than smaller ones? Do larger cities exhibit gains from economies of scale with regard to emissions? Here we examine the relationship between city size and CO2 emissions for U.S. metropolitan areas using a production accounting allocation of emissions. We find that for the time period of 1999–2008, CO2 emissions scale proportionally with urban population size. Contrary to theoretical expectations, larger cities are not more emissions efficient than smaller ones. PMID:23750213

AlzhCPI: A knowledge base for predicting chemical-protein interactions towards Alzheimer's disease.

PubMed

Fang, Jiansong; Wang, Ling; Li, Yecheng; Lian, Wenwen; Pang, Xiaocong; Wang, Hong; Yuan, Dongsheng; Wang, Qi; Liu, Ai-Lin; Du, Guan-Hua

2017-01-01

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complicated progressive neurodegeneration disorder. To confront AD, scientists are searching for multi-target-directed ligands (MTDLs) to delay disease progression. The in silico prediction of chemical-protein interactions (CPI) can accelerate target identification and drug discovery. Previously, we developed 100 binary classifiers to predict the CPI for 25 key targets against AD using the multi-target quantitative structure-activity relationship (mt-QSAR) method. In this investigation, we aimed to apply the mt-QSAR method to enlarge the model library to predict CPI towards AD. Another 104 binary classifiers were further constructed to predict the CPI for 26 preclinical AD targets based on the naive Bayesian (NB) and recursive partitioning (RP) algorithms. The internal 5-fold cross-validation and external test set validation were applied to evaluate the performance of the training sets and test set, respectively. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) for the test sets ranged from 0.629 to 1.0, with an average of 0.903. In addition, we developed a web server named AlzhCPI to integrate the comprehensive information of approximately 204 binary classifiers, which has potential applications in network pharmacology and drug repositioning. AlzhCPI is available online at http://rcidm.org/AlzhCPI/index.html. To illustrate the applicability of AlzhCPI, the developed system was employed for the systems pharmacology-based investigation of shichangpu against AD to enhance the understanding of the mechanisms of action of shichangpu from a holistic perspective.

39 CFR 3010.11 - Limit on size of rate increases.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... in any 12-month period are limited. (b) Rates of general applicability are subject to an inflation-based limitation computed using CPI-U values as detailed in § 3010.12. (c) An exception to the inflation... authority is measured separately for each class of mail. (d) In any 12-month period the inflation-based...

Life cycle and nano-products: end-of-life assessment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Asmatulu, Eylem; Twomey, Janet; Overcash, Michael

2012-03-01

Understanding environmental impacts of nanomaterials necessitates analyzing the life cycle profile. The initial emphasis of nanomaterial life cycle studies has been on the environmental and health effects of nanoproducts during the production and usage stages. Analyzing the end-of-life (eol) stage of nanomaterials is also critical because significant impacts or benefits for the environment may arise at that particular stage. In this article, the Woodrow Wilson Center's Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies (PEN) Consumer Products Inventory (CPI) model was used, which contains a relatively large and complete nanoproduct list (1,014) as of 2010. The consumer products have wide range of applications, such as clothing, sports goods, personal care products, medicine, as well as contributing to faster cars and planes, more powerful computers and satellites, better micro and nanochips, and long-lasting batteries. In order to understand the eol cycle concept, we allocated 1,014 nanoproducts into the nine end-of-life categories (e.g., recyclability, ingestion, absorption by skin/public sewer, public sewer, burning/landfill, landfill, air release, air release/public sewer, and other) based on probable final destinations of the nanoproducts. This article highlights the results of this preliminary assessment of end-of-life stage of nanoproducts. The largest potential eol fate was found to be recyclability, however little literature appears to have evolved around nanoproduct recycling. At lower frequency is dermal and ingestion human uptake and then landfill. Release to water and air are much lower potential eol fates for current nanoproducts. In addition, an analysis of nano-product categories with the largest number of products listed indicated that clothes, followed by dermal-related products and then sports equipment were the most represented in the PEN CPI (http://www.nanotechproject.org/inventories/consumer/browse/categories/, 2010).

Road Traffic Anomaly Detection via Collaborative Path Inference from GPS Snippets

PubMed Central

Wang, Hongtao; Wen, Hui; Yi, Feng; Zhu, Hongsong; Sun, Limin

2017-01-01

Road traffic anomaly denotes a road segment that is anomalous in terms of traffic flow of vehicles. Detecting road traffic anomalies from GPS (Global Position System) snippets data is becoming critical in urban computing since they often suggest underlying events. However, the noisy and sparse nature of GPS snippets data have ushered multiple problems, which have prompted the detection of road traffic anomalies to be very challenging. To address these issues, we propose a two-stage solution which consists of two components: a Collaborative Path Inference (CPI) model and a Road Anomaly Test (RAT) model. CPI model performs path inference incorporating both static and dynamic features into a Conditional Random Field (CRF). Dynamic context features are learned collaboratively from large GPS snippets via a tensor decomposition technique. Then RAT calculates the anomalous degree for each road segment from the inferred fine-grained trajectories in given time intervals. We evaluated our method using a large scale real world dataset, which includes one-month GPS location data from more than eight thousand taxicabs in Beijing. The evaluation results show the advantages of our method beyond other baseline techniques. PMID:28282948

Comparing child protective investigation performance between law enforcement agencies and child welfare agencies.

PubMed

Jordan, Neil; Yampolskaya, Svetlana; Gustafson, Mara; Armstrong, Mary; McNeish, Roxann; Vargo, Amy

2011-01-01

This study examines the comparative effectiveness of using law enforcement agencies for child protective investigation (CPI), in contrast with the traditional approach of CPI conducted by the public child welfare agency. The analysis uses 2006-2007 data from a natural experiment conducted in Florida to show modest differences in performance and cost-efficiency between the two approaches to CPI. These findings may have implications for other states considering outsourcing CPI to law enforcement.

GATA-6 and NF-κB Activate CPI-17 Gene Transcription and Regulate Ca2+ Sensitization of Smooth Muscle Contraction

PubMed Central

Boopathi, Ettickan; Hypolite, Joseph A.; Zderic, Stephen A.; Gomes, Cristiano Mendes; Malkowicz, Bruce; Liou, Hsiou-Chi; Wein, Alan J.

2013-01-01

Protein kinase C (PKC)-potentiated inhibitory protein of 17 kDa (CPI-17) inhibits myosin light chain phosphatase, altering the levels of myosin light chain phosphorylation and Ca2+ sensitivity in smooth muscle. In this study, we characterized the CPI-17 promoter and identified binding sites for GATA-6 and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB). GATA-6 and NF-κB upregulated CPI-17 expression in cultured human and mouse bladder smooth muscle (BSM) cells in an additive manner. CPI-17 expression was decreased upon GATA-6 silencing in cultured BSM cells and in BSM from NF-κB knockout (KO) mice. Moreover, force maintenance by BSM strips from KO mice was decreased compared with the force maintenance of BSM strips from wild-type mice. GATA-6 and NF-κB overexpression was associated with CPI-17 overexpression in BSM from men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)-induced bladder hypertrophy and in a mouse model of bladder outlet obstruction. Thus, aberrant expression of NF-κB and GATA-6 deregulates CPI-17 expression and the contractile function of smooth muscle. Our data provide insight into how GATA-6 and NF-κB mediate CPI-17 transcription, PKC-mediated signaling, and BSM remodeling associated with lower urinary tract symptoms in patients with BPH. PMID:23275439

Films based on protein isolated from croaker (Micropogonias furnieri) and palm oil.

PubMed

Halal, Shanise Lisie Mello El; Zavareze, Elessandra da Rosa; Rocha, Meritaine da; Pinto, Vânia Zanella; Nunes, Michael Ramos; Luvielmo, Márcia de Mello; Prentice, Carlos

2016-05-01

The microstructure and the physical, mechanical, barrier and thermal properties of films based on different concentrations of protein isolated from croaker waste (CPI) and palm oil (PO) were analyzed. Films were elaborated by a casting technique using 2, 3 and 4 g CPI 100 g(-1) of a filmogenic solution and 0, 10 and 20 g of PO 100 g(-1) CPI. Microstructure of the film surfaces of CPI with PO showed no presence of lipid droplets dispersed in the filmogenic matrix, although a rough surface was present. Films with 3% and 4% CPI and 20% PO had the lowest rates of water vapor permeability. When there was an addition of PO to the reduced tensile strength of the films, regardless of the concentration of CPI, this addition reduced the elongation of films with 3% and 4% CPI; however, it did not influence films with 2% CPI, which did not differ from the control film (0% OP). Thermal analysis revealed that films with the highest PO percentage had a lower initial weight loss when compared with other films, due to higher hydrophobicity. The use of protein isolate obtained from fish residues of low commercial value and palm oil is viable for the production of biodegradable films because the latter constitute good barrier properties and thermal stability. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry.

What could family income be if health insurance were more affordable?

PubMed

Young, Richard A; Devoe, Jennifer E

2012-10-01

Adjusted for inflation, household income has been relatively flat since the mid-1990s, but the inflation rate of employer-sponsored health insurance has been greater than both household income growth and general inflation for 50 years. We estimated the effect on average family income if health insurance inflation matched the general inflation rate since 1996, and those savings were given to employees as income. We used data from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey, the Milliman Medical Index, and other federal sources to model the relationship between private health insurance costs and household income over the last 15 years. If the cost of family health care costs had kept pace with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rate since 1996, the average family income could have been $8,410 higher in 2010 ($68,805 versus $60,395), 13.9% more than actual earnings. If health care costs had not exceeded the CPI rate since 1996 and if all the excess costs were converted into employee wages, median family income could be substantially higher today.

77 FR 23282 - All Items Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers; United States City Average

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-18

... DEPARTMENT OF LABOR Office of the Secretary All Items Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers... the United States City Average All Items Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (1967 = 100... Price Index for All Urban Consumers thus increased 356.2 percent from its 1974 annual average of 100 to...

Wasted Food: U.S. Consumers' Reported Awareness, Attitudes, and Behaviors.

PubMed

Neff, Roni A; Spiker, Marie L; Truant, Patricia L

2015-01-01

The U.S. wastes 31 to 40% of its post-harvest food supply, with a substantial portion of this waste occurring at the consumer level. Globally, interventions to address wasted food have proliferated, but efforts are in their infancy in the U.S. To inform these efforts and provide baseline data to track change, we performed a survey of U.S. consumer awareness, attitudes and behaviors related to wasted food. The survey was administered online to members of a nationally representative panel (N=1010), and post-survey weights were applied. The survey found widespread (self-reported) awareness of wasted food as an issue, efforts to reduce it, and knowledge about how to do so, plus moderately frequent performance of waste-reducing behaviors. Three-quarters of respondents said they discard less food than the average American. The leading motivations for waste reduction were saving money and setting an example for children, with environmental concerns ranked last. The most common reasons given for discarding food were concern about foodborne illness and a desire to eat only the freshest food. In some cases there were modest differences based on age, parental status, and income, but no differences were found by race, education, rural/urban residence or other demographic factors. Respondents recommended ways retailers and restaurants could help reduce waste. This is the first nationally representative consumer survey focused on wasted food in the U.S. It provides insight into U.S. consumers' perceptions related to wasted food, and comparisons to existing literature. The findings suggest approaches including recognizing that many consumers perceive themselves as being already-knowledgeable and engaged, framing messages to focus on budgets, and modifying existing messages about food freshness and aesthetics. This research also suggests opportunities to shift retail and restaurant practice, and identifies critical research gaps.

Predictors of Online Cancer Prevention Information Seeking Among Patients and Caregivers Across the Digital Divide: A Cross-Sectional, Correlational Study.

PubMed

Ginossar, Tamar

2016-03-09

The digital divide is a recognized public health problem caused by social determinants that exacerbate health disparities. Despite the "tectonic shift" in how most of the public obtains cancer information, underserved communities are at increased risk of being digitally marginalized. However, research that examines factors underlying eHealth information seeking in diverse health contexts is lacking. The aim of this paper is to explore preferences and use of eHealth cancer prevention information (CPI) among patients and caregivers attending a minority-serving oncology clinic using the comprehensive model of information seeking as a theoretical framework. Specifically, the study examined the role of social determinants and prevention orientation in differences in preference and use of the Internet for CPI seeking among this diverse sample. Survey methodology was used to identify social determinants and behavioral factors, including prevention orientation as correlates and predictors of respondents' (n=252) preferences and use of eHealth for CPI seeking. Less than half (112/252, 44.4%) of respondents said that if faced with the need to seek CPI, they would seek this information online. In the final logistic regression model, education, ethnicity, age, and prevention orientation made significant contributions to the model (P<.05). Specifically, for each year increase in age, participants were 3% less likely to use the Internet for CPI seeking (P=.011). Compared to college graduates, respondents who did not complete high school were 11.75 times less likely to cite the Internet as a CPI carrier (P<.001) and those with a high school education were 3 times (2.99, P=.015) less likely. In addition, the odds that a Spanish speaker would cite the Internet as a CPI carrier were one-fifth (22%) of non-Hispanic whites (P=.032) and about one-quarter (26%) of English-speaking Latinos (P=.036). Finally, with each one point increase on the prevention orientation scale, respondents were 1.83 times less likely to cite online CPI seeking (P=.05). Social determinants to health have profound influence on eHealth CPI seeking. Providers and policy makers should focus on meeting patients and family members' CPI needs following diagnosis and increase eHealth accessibility and availability of evidence-based CPI to diverse populations. Future research is needed to unravel further differences in eHealth CPI seeking, including those among Native Americans that emerged as an additional digitally underserved racial/ethnic group. Finally, additional factors underlying these differences should be explored to better tailor CPI eHealth information to diverse communities' information needs. ©Tamar Ginossar. Originally published in JMIR Cancer (http://cancer.jmir.org), 09.03.2016.

The changing face of urban air pollution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lewis, Alastair C.

2018-02-01

The atmospheric chemistry that leads to photochemical smog and climate-active aerosols requires the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) (1, 2). The VOCs in urban air typically derive from the prevailing energy and transport technologies as well as the use of petrochemical-derived products. On page 760 of this issue, McDonald et al. (3) report that a notable change in emissions may be underway in U.S. cities, with effects on secondary pollutants such as organic aerosols. Shifting from an urban atmosphere dominated by transport-related VOCs to one dominated by VOCs from coatings, adhesives, and consumer products would alter predictions of urban air quality and challenge the existing policy framework for emissions control.

Costs of rheumatoid arthritis during the period 1990-2010: a register-based cost-of-illness study in Sweden.

PubMed

Kalkan, Almina; Hallert, Eva; Bernfort, Lars; Husberg, Magnus; Carlsson, Per

2014-01-01

The objectives of this study were to analyse the total socio-economic impact of RA in Sweden during the period 1990-2010 and to analyse possible changes in costs during this period. The period was deliberately chosen to cover 10 years before and 10 years after the introduction of biologic drugs. A prevalence-based cost-of-illness study was conducted based on data from national and regional registries. There was a decrease in the utilization of RA-related inpatient care as well as sick leave and disability pension during 1990-2010 in Sweden. Total costs for RA are presented in current prices as well as inflation-adjusted with the consumer price index (CPI) and a healthcare price index. The total fixed cost of RA was €454 million in 1990, adjusted to the price level of 2010 with the CPI. This cost increased to €600 million in 2010 and the increase was mainly due to the substantially increasing costs for pharmaceuticals. Of the total costs, drug costs increased from 3% to 33% between 1990 and 2010. Consequently the portion of total costs accounting for indirect costs for RA is lowered from 75% in 1990 to 58% in 2010. By inflation adjusting with the CPI, which is reasonable from a societal perspective, there was a 32% increase in the total fixed cost of RA between 1990 and 2010. This suggests that decreased hospitalization and indirect costs have not fallen enough to offset the increasing cost of drug treatment.

Chromobacterium pathogenicity island 1 type III secretion system is a major virulence determinant for Chromobacterium violaceum-induced cell death in hepatocytes.

PubMed

Miki, Tsuyoshi; Iguchi, Mirei; Akiba, Kinari; Hosono, Masato; Sobue, Tomoyoshi; Danbara, Hirofumi; Okada, Nobuhiko

2010-08-01

Chromobacterium violaceum is a Gram-negative bacterium that causes fatal septicaemia in humans and animals. C. violaceum ATCC 12472 possesses genes associated with two distinct type III secretion systems (T3SSs). One of these systems is encoded by Chromobacterium pathogenicity islands 1 and 1a (Cpi-1/-1a), another is encoded by Chromobacterium pathogenicity island 2 (Cpi-2). Here we show that C. violaceum causes fulminant hepatitis in a mouse infection model, and Cpi-1/-1a-encoded T3SS is required for its virulence. In addition, using C. violaceum strains with defined mutations in the genes that encode the Cpi-1/-1a or Cpi-2 locus in combination with cultured mammalian cell lines, we found that C. violaceum is able to induce cytotoxicity in a Cpi-1/-1a-dependent manner. Characterization of Chromobacterium-induced cytotoxicity revealed that cell lysis by C. violaceum infection involves the formation of pore structures on the host cell membrane, as demonstrated by protection by cytotoxicity in the presence of osmoprotectants. Finally, we demonstrated that CipB, a Cpi-1/-1a effector, is implicated in translocator-mediated pore formation and the ability of CipB to form a pore is essential for Chromobacterium-induced cytotoxicity. These results strongly suggest that Cpi-1/-1a-encoded T3SS is a virulence determinant that causes fatal infection by the induction of cell death in hepatocytes. © 2010 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Cerebral Pulsatility Index Is Elevated in Patients with Elevated Right Atrial Pressure.

PubMed

Lahiri, Shouri; Schlick, Konrad H; Padrick, Matthew M; Rinsky, Brenda; Gonzalez, Nestor; Jones, Heather; Mayer, Stephan A; Lyden, Patrick D

2018-01-01

Extracerebral venous congestion can precipitate intracranial hypertension due to obstruction of cerebral blood outflow. Conditions that increase right atrial pressure, such as hypervolemia, are thought to increase resistance to jugular venous outflow and contribute to cerebro-venous congestion. Cerebral pulsatility index (CPI) is considered a surrogate marker of distal cerebrovascular resistance and is elevated with intracranial hypertension. Thus, we sought to test the hypothesis that elevated right atrial pressure is associated with increased CPI compared to normal right atrial pressure. We retrospectively reviewed 61 consecutive patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage. We calculated CPI from transcranial Doppler studies and correlated these with echocardiographic measures of right atrial pressure. CPIs were compared from patients with elevated and normal right atrial pressure. There was a significant difference between CPI obtained from all patients with elevated right atrial pressure compared to those with normal right atrial pressure (P < .0001). This finding was consistent in sensitivity analysis that compared right and left hemispheric CPI from patients with both elevated and normal right atrial pressure. Patients with elevated right atrial pressure had significantly higher CPI compared to patients with normal right atrial pressure. These findings suggest that cerebro-venous congestion due to impaired jugular venous outflow may increase distal cerebrovascular resistance as measured by CPI. Since elevated CPI is associated with poor outcome in numerous neurological conditions, future studies are needed to elucidate the significance of these results in other populations. Copyright © 2017 by the American Society of Neuroimaging.

WISC-IV GAI and CPI in Psychoeducational Assessment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bremner, Dawn; McTaggart, Breanne; Saklofske, Donald H.; Janzen, Troy

2011-01-01

The General Ability Index (GAI) and Cognitive Proficiency Index (CPI) are two index scores that can be calculated for the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Fourth Canadian Edition (WISC-IV[superscript CDN]). The GAI comprises the verbal comprehension and perceptual reasoning subtests and reflects reasoning abilities. The CPI includes the…

Characterization of LaRC-CPI semicrystalline polyimide using thermal, dynamic mechanical and dielectric relaxation techniques

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

Rich, D.C.; Huo, P.P.; Liu, C.

1993-12-31

The thermal, dynamic mechanical, and dielectric properties of the semicrystalline thermoplastic polyimide LaRC-CPI were studied. Using differential scanning calorimetry to measure heats of fusion and WAXS to measure crystallinity, the heat of fusion of perfect crystalline LaRC-CPI was determined to be 92 {+-} 2 J/g. DMA and dielectric measurements were performed on three LaRC-CPI films (as received, annealed, and amorphous). Crystallinity was found to reinforce the rubbery state resulting in a higher modulus and broader distribution of relaxation times. Broader relaxation for the crystalline LaRC-CPI was also observed in the dielectric tests. Processing strain and the thermal history were foundmore » to have a significant impact in both dynamic mechanical and dielectric relaxation measurements.« less

The use of fractal dimension analysis in estimation of blood vessels shape in transplantable mammary adenocarcinoma in Wistar rats after photodynamic therapy combined with cysteine protease inhibitors.

PubMed

Jurczyszyn, Kamil; Osiecka, Beata J; Ziółkowski, Piotr

2012-01-01

Fractal dimension analysis (FDA) is modern mathematical method widely used to describing of complex and chaotic shapes when classic methods fail. The main aim of this study was evaluating the influence of photodynamic therapy (PDT) with cystein proteases inhibitors (CPI) on the number and morphology of blood vessels inside tumor and on increase of effectiveness of combined therapy in contrast to PDT and CPI used separately. Animals were divided into four groups: control, treated using only PDT, treated using only CPI and treated using combined therapy, PDT and CPI. Results showed that time of animal survival and depth of necrosis inside tumor were significantly higher in CPI+PDT group in contrast to other groups. The higher value of fractal dimension (FD) was observed in control group, while the lowest value was found in the group which was treated by cystein protease inhibitors. The differences between FD were observed in CPI group and PDT+CPI group in comparison to control group. Our results revealed that fractal dimension analysis is a very useful tool in estimating differences between irregular shapes like blood vessels in PDT treated tumors. Thus, the implementation of FDA algorithms could be useful method in evaluating the efficacy of PDT.

The Use of Fractal Dimension Analysis in Estimation of Blood Vessels Shape in Transplantable Mammary Adenocarcinoma in Wistar Rats after Photodynamic Therapy Combined with Cysteine Protease Inhibitors

PubMed Central

Jurczyszyn, Kamil; Osiecka, Beata J.; Ziółkowski, Piotr

2012-01-01

Fractal dimension analysis (FDA) is modern mathematical method widely used to describing of complex and chaotic shapes when classic methods fail. The main aim of this study was evaluating the influence of photodynamic therapy (PDT) with cystein proteases inhibitors (CPI) on the number and morphology of blood vessels inside tumor and on increase of effectiveness of combined therapy in contrast to PDT and CPI used separately. Animals were divided into four groups: control, treated using only PDT, treated using only CPI and treated using combined therapy, PDT and CPI. Results showed that time of animal survival and depth of necrosis inside tumor were significantly higher in CPI+PDT group in contrast to other groups. The higher value of fractal dimension (FD) was observed in control group, while the lowest value was found in the group which was treated by cystein protease inhibitors. The differences between FD were observed in CPI group and PDT+CPI group in comparison to control group. Our results revealed that fractal dimension analysis is a very useful tool in estimating differences between irregular shapes like blood vessels in PDT treated tumors. Thus, the implementation of FDA algorithms could be useful method in evaluating the efficacy of PDT. PMID:22991578

Cytoplasmic peptide:N-glycanase cleaves N-glycans on a carboxypeptidase Y mutant during ERAD in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

PubMed

Hosomi, Akira; Suzuki, Tadashi

2015-04-01

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-associated degradation (ERAD) is a pathway by which misfolded or improperly assembled proteins in the ER are directed to degradation. The cytoplasmic peptide:N-glycanase (PNGase) is a deglycosylating enzyme that cleaves N-glycans from misfolded glycoproteins during the ERAD process. The mutant form of yeast carboxypeptidase Y (CPY*) is an ERAD model substrate that has been extensively studied in yeast. While a delay in the degradation of CPY* in yeast cells lacking the cytoplasmic PNGase (Png1 in yeast) was evident, the in vivo action of PNGase on CPY* has not been detected. We constructed new ERAD substrates derived from CPY*, bearing epitope tags at both N- and C-termini and examined the degradation intermediates observed in yeast cells with compromised proteasome activity. The occurrence of the PNGase-mediated deglycosylation of intact CPY* and its degradation intermediates was evident. A major endoproteolytic reaction on CPY* appears to occur between amino acid 400 and 404. The findings reported herein clearly indicate that PNGase indeed releases N-glycans from CPY* during the ERAD process in vivo. This report implies that the PNGase-mediated deglycosylation during the ERAD process may occur more abundantly than currently envisaged. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Self-esteem, perceived self-efficacy, consumption of tobacco and alcohol in secondary students from urban and rural areas of Monterrey, Nuevo León, México.

PubMed

Martínez Maldonado, Raúl; Pedrão, Luiz Jorge; Alonso Castillo, María Magdalena; López García, Karla Selene; Oliva Rodríguez, Nora Nely

2008-01-01

This study aimed to know the differences, if any, in the consumption of tobacco and alcohol among adolescents from urban and rural areas, and if self-esteem and self-efficacy are related to the consumption in these two groups of adolescents from secondary schools in urban and rural areas of Nuevo León México, from January to June in 2006. The study was based on the theoretical concepts of self-esteem, perceived self-efficacy and consumption of alcohol and tobacco. The design was descriptive and correlational with a sample of 359 students. A substantial difference was found in the consumption of tobacco among secondary students from urban and rural areas (U= 7513.50, p = .03). The average consumption in urban area was higher (average chi = .35) than in the rural area (average chi = .14). A negative and significant relation was found between the quantity of drinks consumed on a typical day and self-esteem (r s = - .23, p <.001), as well as for the quantity of cigarettes consumed on a typical day (r s = - .20, p <.001).

Risk to pollinators from the use of chlorpyrifos in the United States.

PubMed

Cutler, G Christopher; Purdy, John; Giesy, John P; Solomon, Keith R

2014-01-01

CPY is an organophosphorus insecticide that is widely used in North American agriculture. It is non-systemic, comes in several sprayable and granular formulations,and is used on a number of high-acreage crops on which pollinators can forage,including tree fruits, alfalfa, corn, sunflower, and almonds. Bees (Apoidea) are the most important pollinators of agricultural crops in North America and were the main pollinators of interest in this risk assessment.The conceptual model identified a number of potential exposure pathways for pollinators, some more significant than others. CPY is classified as being highly toxic to honey bees by direct contact exposure. However, label precautions and good agricultural practices prohibit application of CPY when bees are flying and/or when flowering crops or weeds are present in the treatment area. Therefore, the risk of CPY to pollinators through direct contact exposure should be small. The main hazards for primary exposure for honey bees are dietary and contact exposure from flowers that were sprayed during application and remain available to bees after application. The main pathways for potential secondary exposure to CPY is through pollen and nectar brought to the hive by forager bees and the sublethal body burden of CPY carried on forager bees. Foraging for other materials, including water or propolis, does not appear to be an important exposure route. Since adult forager honey bees are most exposed, their protection from exposure via pollen, honey, and contact with plant surfaces is expected to be protective of other life stages and castes of honey bees.Tier- I approaches to estimate oral exposure to CPY through pollen and nectar/honey, the principle food sources for honey bees, suggested that CPY poses a risk to honey bees through consumption of pollen and nectar. However, a Tier-2 assessment of concentrations reported in pollen and honey from monitoring work in North America indicated there is little risk of acute toxicity from CPY through consumption of these food sources.Several models were also used to estimate upper-limit exposure of honey bees to CPY through consumption of water from puddles or dew. All models suggest that the risk of CPY is below the LOC for this pathway. Laboratory experiments with field-treated foliage, and semi-field and field tests with honey bees, bumble bees,and alfalfa leaf cutting bees indicate that exposure to foliage, pollen and/or nectar is hazardous to bees up to 3 d after application of CPY to a crop. Pollinators exposed to foliage, pollen or nectar after this time should be minimally affected.Several data gaps and areas of uncertainty were identified, which apply to CPYand other foliar insecticides. These primarily concern the lack of exposure and toxicological data on non-Apis pollinators. Overall, the rarity of reported bee kill incidents involving CPY indicates that compliance with the label precautions and good agricultural practice with the product is the norm in North American agriculture.Overall, we concluded that, provided label directions and good agricultural practices are followed, the use of CPY in agriculture in North America does not present an unacceptable risk to honeybees.

Doppler Processing with Ultra-Wideband (UWB) Radar Revisited

DTIC Science & Technology

2018-01-01

grating lobes as compared to the conventional Doppler processing counterpart. 15. SUBJECT TERMS Doppler radar, UWB radar, matched filter , ambiguity...maps by the matched filter method, illustrating the radar data support in (a) the frequency-slow time domain and (b) the ρ-u domain. The samples...example, obtained by the matched filter method, for a 1.2-s CPI centered at t = 1.5 s

77 FR 66529 - Rules of Practice and Procedure; Rules of Practice and Procedure in Adjudicatory Proceedings...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-11-06

... and inflation adjustments to be made at least once every four years following the initial adjustment... year preceding the year in which the adjustment will be made and June of the calendar year in which the... calendar year preceding the adjustment with the CPI-U for June of the year in which the CMPs were last...

The CPI Subscales as Predictors of Parental Coping with Childhood Leukemia.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kupst, Mary Jo; Schulman, Jerome L.

1981-01-01

Determined the role of the California Psychological Inventory (CPI) in prediction of parental coping with leukemia. None of the standard CPI subscales was a significant predictor of coping. Coping with the specific situation may be a better predictor of later coping with a similar situation than more global assessments. (Author)

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

Lower, Mark D; Christopher, Timothy W; Oland, C Barry

The Facilities and Operations (F&O) Directorate is sponsoring a continuous process improvement (CPI) program. Its purpose is to stimulate, promote, and sustain a culture of improvement throughout all levels of the organization. The CPI program ensures that a scientific and repeatable process exists for improving the delivery of F&O products and services in support of Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) Management Systems. Strategic objectives of the CPI program include achieving excellence in laboratory operations in the areas of safety, health, and the environment. Identifying and promoting opportunities for achieving the following critical outcomes are important business goals of the CPImore » program: improved safety performance; process focused on consumer needs; modern and secure campus; flexibility to respond to changing laboratory needs; bench strength for the future; and elimination of legacy issues. The Steam Pressure-Reducing Station (SPRS) Safety and Energy Efficiency Improvement Project, which is under the CPI program, focuses on maintaining and upgrading SPRSs that are part of the ORNL steam distribution network. This steam pipe network transports steam produced at the ORNL steam plant to many buildings in the main campus site. The SPRS Safety and Energy Efficiency Improvement Project promotes excellence in laboratory operations by (1) improving personnel safety, (2) decreasing fuel consumption through improved steam system energy efficiency, and (3) achieving compliance with applicable worker health and safety requirements. The SPRS Safety and Energy Efficiency Improvement Project being performed by F&O is helping ORNL improve both energy efficiency and worker safety by modifying, maintaining, and repairing SPRSs. Since work began in 2006, numerous energy-wasting steam leaks have been eliminated, heat losses from uninsulated steam pipe surfaces have been reduced, and deficient pressure retaining components have been replaced. These improvements helped ORNL reduce its overall utility costs by decreasing the amount of fuel used to generate steam. Reduced fuel consumption also decreased air emissions. These improvements also helped lower the risk of burn injuries to workers and helped prevent shrapnel injuries resulting from missiles produced by pressurized component failures. In most cases, the economic benefit and cost effectiveness of the SPRS Safety and Energy Efficiency Improvement Project is reflected in payback periods of 1 year or less.« less

Generation and characterization of recombinant bivalent fusion protein r-Cpib for immunotherapy against Clostridium perfringens beta and iota toxemia.

PubMed

Das, Shreya; Majumder, Saugata; Kingston, Joseph J; Batra, Harsh V

2016-02-01

Clostridium perfringens beta (CPB) and iota (CPI) toxaemias result in some of the most lethal forms of haemorrhagic and necrotic enteritis and sudden death syndrome affecting especially neonates. While CPB enterotoxemia is one of the most common forms of clostridial enterotoxemia, CPI enterotoxemia though putatively considered to be rare is an emerging cause of concern. The similarities in clinical manifestation, gross and histopathology findings of both types of toxaemias coupled to the infrequency of CPI toxaemia might lead to symptomatic misidentification with Type C resulting in therapeutic failure due to habitual administration of CPB anti-toxin which is ineffective against CPI. Therefore in the present study, to generate a composite anti-toxin capable of neutralizing both toxaemias, a novel bivalent chimera r-Cpib was constructed by splicing the non-toxic C terminal binding regions of CPB and CPI, via a flexible glycine linker (G4S) by overlap-extension PCR. The fusion protein was characterized for its therapeutic abilities toward CPI and CPB toxin neutralizations. The r-Cpib was found to be non-toxic and could competitively inhibit binding of CPB to host cell receptors thereby reducing its cytotoxicity. Immunization of mice with r-Cpib generated specific antibodies capable of neutralizing the above toxaemias both in vitro and in vivo. Caco-2 cells exposed to a mixture of anti-r-Cpib sera and native CPI or CPB, displayed significantly superior protection against the respective toxins while passive challenge of mice with a similar mixture resulted in 83 and 91% protection against CPI and CPB respectively. Alternatively, mice exposed to a mixture of sham sera and native toxins died within 2-3 days. This work thus demonstrates r-Cpib as a novel bivalent fusion protein capable of efficient immunotherapy against C. perfringens CPI and CPB toxaemia. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Assessing U.S. Public School Quality: The Advantages of Combining Internal "Consumer Ratings" with External NCLB Ratings

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Price, Heather E.

2016-01-01

The school quality assessment process under No Child Left Behind (NCLB) is criticized for oversimplifying and overemphasizing standardized test results and unfairly targeting diverse, urban schools. There has been much development in alternative test score evaluations, especially value-added models. These developments have tilted the public…

Copayments and Consumer Search: Increasing Competition in Medicare and Other Insured Medical Markets

PubMed Central

Cantwell, James R.

1981-01-01

Between 1950 and 1980, the physician fee component of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 488 percent. In contrast, an index of physician fees adjusted for 1) overall inflation, and 2) the declining proportion which is paid out-of-pocket by the patient, declined over the same 30-year period. This last observation, pointing to the erosion of the market, is important for structuring price competition for physician services. For insured patients, out-of-pocket payments arise from deductibles, coinsurance and limits, each of which is briefly discussed in this article. Following a review of Medicare Part B physician reimbursement, the paper shows that limits can be used to strengthen the incentive which insured patients have to search for less expensive medical care. PMID:10309559

Silver Nanowire Embedded Colorless Polyimide Heater for Wearable Chemical Sensors: Improved Reversible Reaction Kinetics of Optically Reduced Graphene Oxide.

PubMed

Choi, Seon-Jin; Kim, Sang-Joon; Jang, Ji-Soo; Lee, Ji-Hyun; Kim, Il-Doo

2016-09-14

Optically reduced graphene oxide (ORGO) sheets are successfully integrated on silver nanowire (Ag NW)-embedded transparent and flexible substrate. As a heating element, Ag NWs are embedded in a colorless polyimide (CPI) film by covering Ag NW networks using polyamic acid and subsequent imidization. Graphene oxide dispersed aqueous solution is drop-coated on the Ag NW-embedded CPI (Ag NW-CPI) film and directly irradiated by intense pulsed light to obtain ORGO sheets. The heat generation property of Ag NW-CPI film is investigated by applying DC voltage, which demonstrates unprecedentedly reliable and stable characteristics even in dynamic bending condition. To demonstrate the potential application in wearable chemical sensors, NO 2 sensing characteristic of ORGO is investigated with respect to the different heating temperature (22.7-71.7 °C) of Ag NW-CPI film. The result reveals that the ORGO sheets exhibit high sensitivity of 2.69% with reversible response/recovery sensing properties and minimal deviation of baseline resistance of around 1% toward NO 2 molecules when the temperature of Ag NW-CPI film is 71.7 °C. This work first demonstrates the improved reversible NO 2 sensing properties of ORGO sheets on flexible and transparent Ag NW-CPI film assisted by Ag NW heating networks. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Lakeside: Merging Urban Design with Scientific Analysis

ScienceCinema

Guzowski, Leah; Catlett, Charlie; Woodbury, Ed

2018-01-16

Researchers at the U.S. Department of Energy's Argonne National Laboratory and the University of Chicago are developing tools that merge urban design with scientific analysis to improve the decision-making process associated with large-scale urban developments. One such tool, called LakeSim, has been prototyped with an initial focus on consumer-driven energy and transportation demand, through a partnership with the Chicago-based architectural and engineering design firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, Clean Energy Trust and developer McCaffery Interests. LakeSim began with the need to answer practical questions about urban design and planning, requiring a better understanding about the long-term impact of design decisions on energy and transportation demand for a 600-acre development project on Chicago's South Side - the Chicago Lakeside Development project.

78 FR 63465 - Adjusting Civil Money Penalties for Inflation

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-10-24

..., Bureau of Labor Statistics, and is available at its Web site: ftp://ftp.bls.gov/pub/special.requests/cpi... violation under section 5.65(c) and (d) of the Act. C. Mathematical Calculation 1. The adjustment... to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the CPI for June 2001 was 178, and the CPI for June 2012 was 229...

An Index of Competition Based on Relative Crown Position and Size

Treesearch

Dwight D. O' Neal; Allan E. Houston; Edward R. Buckner; James S. Meadows

1995-01-01

A new competition index, the Crown Position Index (CPI) was evaluated using a 41-year-old, well stocked, upland hardwood stand in southwestern Tennessee. CPI wss based on relative crown position and crown size as expressed by crown projections and relative heights of crop trees and their competitors. Comparisons were made among CPI, the Hegyl (1974)...

Wasted Food: U.S. Consumers' Reported Awareness, Attitudes, and Behaviors

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

The U.S. wastes 31 to 40% of its post-harvest food supply, with a substantial portion of this waste occurring at the consumer level. Globally, interventions to address wasted food have proliferated, but efforts are in their infancy in the U.S. To inform these efforts and provide baseline data to track change, we performed a survey of U.S. consumer awareness, attitudes and behaviors related to wasted food. The survey was administered online to members of a nationally representative panel (N=1010), and post-survey weights were applied. The survey found widespread (self-reported) awareness of wasted food as an issue, efforts to reduce it, and knowledge about how to do so, plus moderately frequent performance of waste-reducing behaviors. Three-quarters of respondents said they discard less food than the average American. The leading motivations for waste reduction were saving money and setting an example for children, with environmental concerns ranked last. The most common reasons given for discarding food were concern about foodborne illness and a desire to eat only the freshest food. In some cases there were modest differences based on age, parental status, and income, but no differences were found by race, education, rural/urban residence or other demographic factors. Respondents recommended ways retailers and restaurants could help reduce waste. This is the first nationally representative consumer survey focused on wasted food in the U.S. It provides insight into U.S. consumers’ perceptions related to wasted food, and comparisons to existing literature. The findings suggest approaches including recognizing that many consumers perceive themselves as being already-knowledgeable and engaged, framing messages to focus on budgets, and modifying existing messages about food freshness and aesthetics. This research also suggests opportunities to shift retail and restaurant practice, and identifies critical research gaps. PMID:26062025

Influence of corruption on economic growth rate and foreign investment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Podobnik, Boris; Shao, Jia; Njavro, Djuro; Ivanov, Plamen Ch.; Stanley, H. E.

2008-06-01

We analyze the dependence of the Gross Domestic Product ( GDP) per capita growth rates on changes in the Corruption Perceptions Index ( CPI). For the period 1999 2004 for all countries in the world, we find on average that an increase of CPI by one unit leads to an increase of the annual GDP per capita growth rate by 1.7%. By regressing only the European countries with transition economies, we find that an increase of CPI by one unit generates an increase of the annual GDP per capita growth rate by 2.4%. We also analyze the relation between foreign direct investments received by different countries and CPI, and we find a statistically significant power-law functional dependence between foreign direct investment per capita and the country corruption level measured by the CPI. We introduce a new measure to quantify the relative corruption between countries based on their respective wealth as measured by GDP per capita.

A quantum retrograde canon: complete population inversion in n 2-state systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Padan, Alon; Suchowski, Haim

2018-04-01

We present a novel approach for analytically reducing a family of time-dependent multi-state quantum control problems to two-state systems. The presented method translates between {SU}(2)× {SU}(2) related n 2-state systems and two-state systems, such that the former undergo complete population inversion (CPI) if and only if the latter reach specific states. For even n, the method translates any two-state CPI scheme to a family of CPI schemes in n 2-state systems. In particular, facilitating CPI in a four-state system via real time-dependent nearest-neighbors couplings is reduced to facilitating CPI in a two-level system. Furthermore, we show that the method can be used for operator control, and provide conditions for producing several universal gates for quantum computation as an example. In addition, we indicate a basis for utilizing the method in optimal control problems.

Road Traffic Anomaly Detection via Collaborative Path Inference from GPS Snippets.

PubMed

Wang, Hongtao; Wen, Hui; Yi, Feng; Zhu, Hongsong; Sun, Limin

2017-03-09

Road traffic anomaly denotes a road segment that is anomalous in terms of traffic flow of vehicles. Detecting road traffic anomalies from GPS (Global Position System) snippets data is becoming critical in urban computing since they often suggest underlying events. However, the noisy ands parse nature of GPS snippets data have ushered multiple problems, which have prompted the detection of road traffic anomalies to be very challenging. To address these issues, we propose a two-stage solution which consists of two components: a Collaborative Path Inference (CPI) model and a Road Anomaly Test (RAT) model. CPI model performs path inference incorporating both static and dynamic features into a Conditional Random Field (CRF). Dynamic context features are learned collaboratively from large GPS snippets via a tensor decomposition technique. Then RAT calculates the anomalous degree for each road segment from the inferred fine-grained trajectories in given time intervals. We evaluated our method using a large scale real world dataset, which includes one-month GPS location data from more than eight thousand taxi cabs in Beijing. The evaluation results show the advantages of our method beyond other baseline techniques.

Organic compounds in aerosols from selected European sites - Biogenic versus anthropogenic sources

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alves, Célia; Vicente, Ana; Pio, Casimiro; Kiss, Gyula; Hoffer, Andras; Decesari, Stefano; Prevôt, André S. H.; Minguillón, María Cruz; Querol, Xavier; Hillamo, Risto; Spindler, Gerald; Swietlicki, Erik

2012-11-01

Atmospheric aerosol samples from a boreal forest (Hyytiälä, April 2007), a rural site in Hungary (K-puszta, summer 2008), a polluted rural area in Italy (San Pietro Capofiume, Po Valley, April 2008), a moderately polluted rural site in Germany located on a meadow (Melpitz, May 2008), a natural park in Spain (Montseny, March 2009) and two urban background locations (Zurich, December 2008, and Barcelona, February/March 2009) were collected. Aliphatics, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, carbonyls, sterols, n-alkanols, acids, phenolic compounds and anhydrosugars in aerosols were chemically characterised by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, along with source attribution based on the carbon preference index (CPI), the ratios between the unresolved and the chromatographically resolved aliphatics, the contribution of wax n-alkanes, n-alkanols and n-alkanoic acids from plants, diagnostic ratios of individual target compounds and source-specific markers to organic carbon ratios. In spite of transboundary pollution episodes, Hyytiälä registered the lowest levels among all locations. CPI values close to 1 for the aliphatic fraction of the Montseny aerosol suggest that the anthropogenic input may be associated with the transport of aged air masses from the surrounding industrial/urban areas, which superimpose the locally originated hydrocarbons with biogenic origin. Aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons in samples from San Pietro Capofiume reveal that fossil fuel combustion is a major source influencing the diel pattern of concentrations. This source contributed to 25-45% of the ambient organic carbon (OC) at the Po Valley site. Aerosols from the German meadow presented variable contributions from both biogenic and anthropogenic sources. The highest levels of vegetation wax components and biogenic secondary organic aerosol (SOA) products were observed at K-puszta, while anthropogenic SOA compounds predominated in Barcelona. The primary vehicular emissions in the Spanish city accounted for around 25-30% of the OC in aerosols. Besides the traffic input (10% of OC), residential wood burning was found to be another dominant emission source contributing to the atmospheric aerosol (up to 38% of OC) at the Swiss urban location. It was estimated that around 10% of the OC mass in the urban sites originates from cooking emissions. Aerosols from the urban area of Zurich presented a much higher PAH content, and benzo(a)pyrene equivalent concentrations sometimes exceeding the mandatory limit.

76 FR 31991 - All Items Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers; United States City Average

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-06-02

... DEPARTMENT OF LABOR Office of the Secretary All Items Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers... United States City Average All Items Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (1967=100) increased... 1974 as a base (1974=100), I certify that the United States City Average All Items Consumer Price Index...

78 FR 35054 - All Items Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers United States City Average

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-11

... DEPARTMENT OF LABOR Office of the Secretary All Items Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers... United States City Average All Items Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (1967=100) increased... 1974 as a base (1974=100), I certify that the United States City Average All Items Consumer Price Index...

75 FR 22164 - All Items Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers United States City Average

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-04-27

... DEPARTMENT OF LABOR Office of the Secretary All Items Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers... United States City Average All Items Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (1967=100) increased... 1974 as a base (1974=100), I certify that the United States City Average All Items Consumer Price Index...

An Interactive Computer Forecasting Model to Determine the Effects of Policy Changes on the Valuation of the Military Retirement System.

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-12-01

adjustment determined on CPI percentage increase from June to - December and December to June, respectively (Chiles Amendment). 1980 Deleted the semi-annual...ll1-(1/q))/di) 4 01595 print using ’Present value of future retirement benefits =tzlh9U S.f’lpre 01600 t2((I+di)** los1 )- 01605 nc=pre*(di/t) 01610

77 FR 43301 - Medicaid Program; Disproportionate Share Hospital Allotments and Institutions for Mental Diseases...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-07-24

... increase in the CPI-U for the prior FY (0.0 percent). Column F FY 2010 TC MAP Exp. Incl. DSH. This column... including DSH expenditures. Column G FY 2010 TC MAP Exp. Net of DSH. This column contains the amount of the States' actual FY 2010 total computable DSH expenditures. Column H FY 2010 TC MAP Exp. Net of DSH. This...

Coffee cysteine proteinases and related inhibitors with high expression during grain maturation and germination

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Cysteine proteinases perform multiple functions in seeds, including participation in remodelling polypeptides and recycling amino acids during maturation and germination. Currently, few details exist concerning these genes and proteins in coffee. Furthermore, there is limited information on the cysteine proteinase inhibitors which influence the activities of these proteinases. Results Two cysteine proteinase (CP) and four cysteine proteinase inhibitor (CPI) gene sequences have been identified in coffee with significant expression during the maturation and germination of coffee grain. Detailed expression analysis of the cysteine proteinase genes CcCP1 and CcCP4 in Robusta using quantitative RT-PCR showed that these transcripts accumulate primarily during grain maturation and germination/post germination. The corresponding proteins were expressed in E. coli and purified, but only one, CcCP4, which has a KDDL/KDEL C-terminal sequence, was found to be active after a short acid treatment. QRT-PCR expression analysis of the four cysteine proteinase inhibitor genes in Robusta showed that CcCPI-1 is primarily expressed in developing and germinating grain and CcCPI-4 is very highly expressed during the late post germination period, as well as in mature, but not immature leaves. Transcripts corresponding to CcCPI-2 and CcCPI-3 were detected in most tissues examined at relatively similar, but generally low levels. Conclusions Several cysteine proteinase and cysteine proteinase inhibitor genes with strong, relatively specific expression during coffee grain maturation and germination are presented. The temporal expression of the CcCP1 gene suggests it is involved in modifying proteins during late grain maturation and germination. The expression pattern of CcCP4, and its close identity with KDEL containing CP proteins, implies this proteinase may play a role in protein and/or cell remodelling during late grain germination, and that it is likely to play a strong role in the programmed cell death associated with post-germination of the coffee grain. Expression analysis of the cysteine proteinase inhibitor genes suggests that CcCPI-1 could primarily be involved in modulating the activity of grain CP activity; while CcCPI-4 may play roles modulating grain CP activity and in the protection of the young coffee seedlings from insects and pathogens. CcCPI-2 and CcCPI-3, having lower and more widespread expression, could be more general "house-keeping" CPI genes. PMID:22380654

A New Sugarcane Cystatin Strongly Binds to Dental Enamel and Reduces Erosion.

PubMed

Santiago, A C; Khan, Z N; Miguel, M C; Gironda, C C; Soares-Costa, A; Pelá, V T; Leite, A L; Edwardson, J M; Buzalaf, M A R; Henrique-Silva, F

2017-08-01

Cystatin B was recently identified as an acid-resistant protein in acquired enamel pellicle; it could therefore be included in oral products to protect against caries and erosion. However, human recombinant cystatin is very expensive, and alternatives to its use are necessary. Phytocystatins are reversible inhibitors of cysteine peptidases that are found naturally in plants. In plants, they have several biological and physiological functions, such as the regulation of endogenous processes, defense against pathogens, and response to abiotic stress. Previous studies performed by our research group have reported high inhibitory activity and potential agricultural and medical applications of several sugarcane cystatins, including CaneCPI-1, CaneCPI-2, CaneCPI-3, and CaneCPI-4. In the present study, we report the characterization of a novel sugarcane cystatin, named CaneCPI-5. This cystatin was efficiently expressed in Escherichia coli, and inhibitory assays demonstrated that it was a potent inhibitor of human cathepsins B, K, and L ( K i = 6.87, 0.49, and 0.34 nM, respectively). The ability of CaneCPI-5 to bind to dental enamel was evaluated using atomic force microscopy. Its capacity to protect against initial enamel erosion was also tested in vitro via changes in surface hardness. CaneCPI-5 showed a very large force of interaction with enamel (e.g., compared with mucin and casein) and significantly reduced initial enamel erosion. These results suggest that the inclusion of CaneCPIs in dental products might confer protection against enamel erosion.

Update on inflation of journal prices: Brandon/Hill list journals and the scientific, technical, and medical publishing market.

PubMed

Schlimgen, Joan B; Kronenfeld, Michael R

2004-07-01

The original study of journal prices, using the "Brandon/ Hill Selected List of Books and Journals for the Small Medical Library," was first published in 1980 and periodically updated. This research continues to measure price increases for these titles for the periods 1996 to 1999 and 1999 to 2002. The 111 journal titles that have appeared in each published list from 1967 to 2001 were included in the study. Institutional subscription price data were gathered for each journal for the years 1996, 1999, and 2002 and were compared to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the same years. The average journal price continues to rise significantly and is independent of the CPI. The study found that prices have jumped 51.9% from 1996 to 1999 and 32% from 1999 to 2002, which is consistent with nearly every recent journal price study. The unprecedented rise in journal prices negatively affects the purchasing power of medical libraries. This paper examines the economic and technological pressures on the science, technology, and medical journals market that contribute to high prices and identifies a number of initiatives in the biological and health sciences that utilize alternative models for disseminating scientific research.

"Making the Margins Chaos": Romantic and Antiromantic Readings of La Maravilla

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carlston, Erin G.

2005-01-01

Alfredo Vea Jr.'s 1993 novel "La Maravilla" depicts a 1950s squatter community on the edge of Phoenix. The community, Buckeye Road, questions notions of U.S. American identity as middle-class, WASP, and heterosexual. Buckeye can easily be viewed as a romanticized utopia that offers an alternative to consumer capitalism, urban sprawl, the…

Development of the Navy Computer Adaptive Personality Scales (NCAPS)

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-09-01

Psychological Inventory (CPI) 20 Gough & Bradley (1996) Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire (MPQ) 11 Tellegen (1982) O*NET Work Styles 17 Borman...Force enlisted personnel. Social astuteness also has conceptual overlap with the CPI Psychological Mindedness scale. The CPI Psychological Mindedness...scale had internal consistency reliability of α = .62 (n = 6,000; 3,000 males and 3,000 females). The Psychological Mindedness scale had a 1- year

76 FR 31991 - All Items Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers; United States City Average

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-06-02

... DEPARTMENT OF LABOR Office of the Secretary All Items Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers; United States City Average Pursuant to Section 33105(c) of Title 49, United States Code, and the... Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (1967 = 100) increased 110.0 percent from its 1984 annual...

77 FR 23283 - All Items Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers; United States City Average

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-18

... DEPARTMENT OF LABOR Office of the Secretary All Items Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers; United States City Average Pursuant to Section 33105(c) of Title 49, United States Code, and the... Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (1967 = 100) increased 116.6 percent from its 1984 annual...

78 FR 35054 - All Items Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers; United States City Average

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-11

... DEPARTMENT OF LABOR Office of the Secretary All Items Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers... delegation of the Secretary of Transportation's responsibilities under that Act to the Administrator of the... Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (1967=100) increased 121.1 percent from its 1984 annual...

75 FR 22164 - All Items Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers; United States City Average

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-04-27

... DEPARTMENT OF LABOR Office of the Secretary All Items Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers... delegation of the Secretary of Transportation's responsibilities under that Act to the Administrator of the... Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (1967=100) increased 106.6 percent from its 1984 annual...

Wavelet Transform Analysis of the Power Spectrum of Centre of Pressure Signals to Detect the Critical Point Interval of Postural Control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, Neeraj Kumar; Snoussi, Hichem; Hewson, David; Duchêne, Jacques

The aim of this study was to develop a method to detecting the critical point interval (CPI) when sensory feedback is used as part of a closed-loop postural control strategy. Postural balance was evaluated using centre of pressure (COP) displacements from a force plate for 17 control and 10 elderly subjects under eyes open, eyes closed, and vibration conditions. A modified local-maximum-modulus wavelet transform analysis using the power spectrum of COP signals was used to calculate CPI. Lower CPI values indicate increased closed-loop postural control with a quicker response to sensory input. Such a strategy requires greater energy expenditure due to the repeated muscular interventions to remain stable. The CPI for elderly occurred significantly quicker than for controls, indicating tighter control of posture. Similar results were observed for eyes closed and vibration conditions. The CPI parameter can be used to detect differences in postural control due to ageing.

Metal Oxide Solubility and Molten Salt Corrosion.

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-03-29

METAL OXIDE SOLUBILITY AND MOLTEN SALT CORROSION .(U) MAR 82 K H STERN UNCLASSI E DL R L-4772NL EL .2. MICROCOPY RESOLUTION TEST CHART NATIONAL BURALU...21 l 7 3 ..... l DTIC NSPECT I" ’I cCPY INSECE( METAL OXIDE SOLUBILITY AND MOLTEN SALT CORROSION I. INTRODUCTION Molten ...discussed in terms of its importance to the understanding of molten salt corrosion . II. PROTECTIVE COATINGS Since most structural metals and alloys are

DPDR-CPI, a server that predicts Drug Positioning and Drug Repositioning via Chemical-Protein Interactome.

PubMed

Luo, Heng; Zhang, Ping; Cao, Xi Hang; Du, Dizheng; Ye, Hao; Huang, Hui; Li, Can; Qin, Shengying; Wan, Chunling; Shi, Leming; He, Lin; Yang, Lun

2016-11-02

The cost of developing a new drug has increased sharply over the past years. To ensure a reasonable return-on-investment, it is useful for drug discovery researchers in both industry and academia to identify all the possible indications for early pipeline molecules. For the first time, we propose the term computational "drug candidate positioning" or "drug positioning", to describe the above process. It is distinct from drug repositioning, which identifies new uses for existing drugs and maximizes their value. Since many therapeutic effects are mediated by unexpected drug-protein interactions, it is reasonable to analyze the chemical-protein interactome (CPI) profiles to predict indications. Here we introduce the server DPDR-CPI, which can make real-time predictions based only on the structure of the small molecule. When a user submits a molecule, the server will dock it across 611 human proteins, generating a CPI profile of features that can be used for predictions. It can suggest the likelihood of relevance of the input molecule towards ~1,000 human diseases with top predictions listed. DPDR-CPI achieved an overall AUROC of 0.78 during 10-fold cross-validations and AUROC of 0.76 for the independent validation. The server is freely accessible via http://cpi.bio-x.cn/dpdr/.

Back-Projection Cortical Potential Imaging: Theory and Results.

PubMed

Haor, Dror; Shavit, Reuven; Shapiro, Moshe; Geva, Amir B

2017-07-01

Electroencephalography (EEG) is the single brain monitoring technique that is non-invasive, portable, passive, exhibits high-temporal resolution, and gives a directmeasurement of the scalp electrical potential. Amajor disadvantage of the EEG is its low-spatial resolution, which is the result of the low-conductive skull that "smears" the currents coming from within the brain. Recording brain activity with both high temporal and spatial resolution is crucial for the localization of confined brain activations and the study of brainmechanismfunctionality, whichis then followed by diagnosis of brain-related diseases. In this paper, a new cortical potential imaging (CPI) method is presented. The new method gives an estimation of the electrical activity on the cortex surface and thus removes the "smearing effect" caused by the skull. The scalp potentials are back-projected CPI (BP-CPI) onto the cortex surface by building a well-posed problem to the Laplace equation that is solved by means of the finite elements method on a realistic head model. A unique solution to the CPI problem is obtained by introducing a cortical normal current estimation technique. The technique is based on the same mechanism used in the well-known surface Laplacian calculation, followed by a scalp-cortex back-projection routine. The BP-CPI passed four stages of validation, including validation on spherical and realistic head models, probabilistic analysis (Monte Carlo simulation), and noise sensitivity tests. In addition, the BP-CPI was compared with the minimum norm estimate CPI approach and found superior for multi-source cortical potential distributions with very good estimation results (CC >0.97) on a realistic head model in the regions of interest, for two representative cases. The BP-CPI can be easily incorporated in different monitoring tools and help researchers by maintaining an accurate estimation for the cortical potential of ongoing or event-related potentials in order to have better neurological inferences from the EEG.

A Review of Cost Performance Index Stability

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-09-01

heuristics using both a cumulative and a non-cumulative CPI approach. Research Problem The problem is to determine if the CPI stabilizes for defense...stability include heuristics and an empirical study. There are problems with each of these approaches however, which cause confusion for users of CPR...data trying to determine when to declare the CPI stable. The problem with heuristics is that there is a large number of them, each lacking statistical

Direct and indirect urban water footprints of the United States

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chini, Christopher M.; Konar, Megan; Stillwell, Ashlynn S.

2017-01-01

The water footprint of the urban environment is not limited to direct water consumption (i.e., municipal supplies); embedded water in imported resources, or virtual water transfers, provides an additional component of the urban water footprint. Using empirical data, our analysis extends traditional urban water footprinting analysis to quantify both direct and indirect urban resources for the United States. We determine direct water volumes and their embedded energy through open records requests of water utilities. The indirect component of the urban water footprint includes water indirectly consumed through energy and food, relating to the food-energy-water nexus. We comprehensively quantify the indirect water footprint for 74 metropolitan statistical areas through the combination of various databases, including the Commodity Flow Survey of the U.S. Census Bureau, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Water Footprint Network, and the Energy Information Administration. We then analyze spatial heterogeneity in both direct and indirect water footprints, determining the average urban water footprint in the United States to be 1.64 million gallons of water per person per year [6200 m3/person/yr or 17,000 L/person/d], dominated by indirect water. Additionally, our study of the urban water cycle extends beyond considering only water resources to include embedded energy and equivalent carbon dioxide emissions. The inclusion of multiple sectors of the urban water cycle and their underlying processes provides important insights to the overall urban environment, the interdependencies of the food-energy-water nexus, and water resource sustainability. Our results provide opportunities for benchmarking the urban energy-water nexus, water footprints, and climate change potential.

Prioritizing subwatersheds for stormwater pollution to Wachusett Reservoir.

PubMed

Cho, Kyung Hwa; Park, Mi-Hyun

2013-02-01

The Wachusett Reservoir is a primary drinking water resource for the greater Boston, Massachusetts, area. With a drainage area of 280 km2, the watershed has been gradually urbanized with increased residential, commercial, industrial, and transportation land uses. Increased impervious surface area as a result of urbanization results in increased runoff volume and pollutant loads to the reservoir. This study estimated annual stormwater pollutant mass loads in the watershed to prioritize sub-basins and to identify areas susceptible to stormwater pollution. Catchment Prioritization Index (CPI) was calculated using annual stormwater pollutant mass loads, which were further used to identify clustered hotspots through application of the Getis-Ord Gi* statistic. Validation with observed data showed higher levels of fecal coliform bacteria loading from identified hotspots. This approach will be useful to prioritize sub-basins for future (1) development of stormwater monitoring strategies and (2) best management practices (BMPs) in the watershed.

Physical Mapping and Refinement of the Painted Turtle Genome (Chrysemys picta) Inform Amniote Genome Evolution and Challenge Turtle-Bird Chromosomal Conservation

PubMed Central

Badenhorst, Daleen; Hillier, LaDeana W.; Literman, Robert; Montiel, Eugenia Elisabet; Radhakrishnan, Srihari; Shen, Yingjia; Minx, Patrick; Janes, Daniel E.; Warren, Wesley C.; Edwards, Scott V.; Valenzuela, Nicole

2015-01-01

Comparative genomics continues illuminating amniote genome evolution, but for many lineages our understanding remains incomplete. Here, we refine the assembly (CPI 3.0.3 NCBI AHGY00000000.2) and develop a cytogenetic map of the painted turtle (Chrysemys picta—CPI) genome, the first in turtles and in vertebrates with temperature-dependent sex determination. A comparison of turtle genomes with those of chicken, selected nonavian reptiles, and human revealed shared and novel genomic features, such as numerous chromosomal rearrangements. The largest conserved syntenic blocks between birds and turtles exist in four macrochromosomes, whereas rearrangements were evident in these and other chromosomes, disproving that turtles and birds retain fully conserved macrochromosomes for greater than 300 Myr. C-banding revealed large heterochromatic blocks in the centromeric region of only few chromosomes. The nucleolar-organizing region (NOR) mapped to a single CPI microchromosome, whereas in some turtles and lizards the NOR maps to nonhomologous sex-chromosomes, thus revealing independent translocations of the NOR in various reptilian lineages. There was no evidence for recent chromosomal fusions as interstitial telomeric-DNA was absent. Some repeat elements (CR1-like, Gypsy) were enriched in the centromeres of five chromosomes, whereas others were widespread in the CPI genome. Bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) clones were hybridized to 18 of the 25 CPI chromosomes and anchored to a G-banded ideogram. Several CPI sex-determining genes mapped to five chromosomes, and homology was detected between yet other CPI autosomes and the globally nonhomologous sex chromosomes of chicken, other turtles, and squamates, underscoring the independent evolution of vertebrate sex-determining mechanisms. PMID:26108489

A Phase I Study of CPI-613 in Combination with High-Dose Cytarabine and Mitoxantrone for Relapsed or Refractory Acute Myeloid Leukemia.

PubMed

Pardee, Timothy S; Anderson, Rebecca G; Pladna, Kristin M; Isom, Scott; Ghiraldeli, Lais P; Miller, Lance D; Chou, Jeff W; Jin, Guangxu; Zhang, Wei; Ellis, Leslie R; Berenzon, Dmitriy; Howard, Dianna S; Hurd, David D; Manuel, Megan; Dralle, Sarah; Lyerly, Susan; Powell, Bayard L

2018-05-01

Purpose: CPI-613, a lipoate analogue that inhibits pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) and α-ketogluterate dehydrogenase (KGDH), has activity in patients with myeloid malignancies. This study explored the role of mitochondrial metabolism in chemotherapy response and determined the MTD, efficacy, and safety of CPI-613 combined with high-dose cytarabine and mitoxantrone in patients with relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukemia. Experimental Design: The role of mitochondrial response to chemotherapy was assessed in cell lines and animal models. A phase I study of CPI-613 plus cytarabine and mitoxantrone was conducted in patients with relapsed or refractory AML. Results: Exposure to chemotherapy induced mitochondrial oxygen consumption that depended on PDH. CPI-613 sensitized AML cells to chemotherapy indicating that mitochondrial metabolism is a source of resistance. Loss of p53 did not alter response to CPI-613. The phase I study enrolled 67 patients and 62 were evaluable for response. The overall response rate was 50% (26CR+5CRi/62). Median survival was 6.7 months. In patients over 60 years old, the CR/CRi rate was 47% (15/32) with a median survival of 6.9 months. The response rate for patients with poor-risk cytogenetics also was encouraging with 46% (11/24 patients) achieving a CR or CRi. RNA sequencing analysis of a subset of baseline bone marrow samples revealed a gene expression signature consistent with the presence of B cells in the pretreatment marrow of responders. Conclusions: The addition of CPI-613 to chemotherapy is a promising approach in older patients and those with poor-risk cytogenetics. Clin Cancer Res; 24(9); 2060-73. ©2018 AACR . ©2018 American Association for Cancer Research.

Physical Mapping and Refinement of the Painted Turtle Genome (Chrysemys picta) Inform Amniote Genome Evolution and Challenge Turtle-Bird Chromosomal Conservation.

PubMed

Badenhorst, Daleen; Hillier, LaDeana W; Literman, Robert; Montiel, Eugenia Elisabet; Radhakrishnan, Srihari; Shen, Yingjia; Minx, Patrick; Janes, Daniel E; Warren, Wesley C; Edwards, Scott V; Valenzuela, Nicole

2015-06-24

Comparative genomics continues illuminating amniote genome evolution, but for many lineages our understanding remains incomplete. Here, we refine the assembly (CPI 3.0.3 NCBI AHGY00000000.2) and develop a cytogenetic map of the painted turtle (Chrysemys picta-CPI) genome, the first in turtles and in vertebrates with temperature-dependent sex determination. A comparison of turtle genomes with those of chicken, selected nonavian reptiles, and human revealed shared and novel genomic features, such as numerous chromosomal rearrangements. The largest conserved syntenic blocks between birds and turtles exist in four macrochromosomes, whereas rearrangements were evident in these and other chromosomes, disproving that turtles and birds retain fully conserved macrochromosomes for greater than 300 Myr. C-banding revealed large heterochromatic blocks in the centromeric region of only few chromosomes. The nucleolar-organizing region (NOR) mapped to a single CPI microchromosome, whereas in some turtles and lizards the NOR maps to nonhomologous sex-chromosomes, thus revealing independent translocations of the NOR in various reptilian lineages. There was no evidence for recent chromosomal fusions as interstitial telomeric-DNA was absent. Some repeat elements (CR1-like, Gypsy) were enriched in the centromeres of five chromosomes, whereas others were widespread in the CPI genome. Bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) clones were hybridized to 18 of the 25 CPI chromosomes and anchored to a G-banded ideogram. Several CPI sex-determining genes mapped to five chromosomes, and homology was detected between yet other CPI autosomes and the globally nonhomologous sex chromosomes of chicken, other turtles, and squamates, underscoring the independent evolution of vertebrate sex-determining mechanisms. © The Author(s) 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society for Molecular Biology and Evolution.

Clinical efficiency of Piezo-ICSI using micropipettes with a wall thickness of 0.625 μm.

PubMed

Hiraoka, Kenichiro; Kitamura, Seiji

2015-12-01

The purposes of the present study are to assess the clinical efficiency of Piezo-intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and to improve the Piezo-ICSI method for human oocytes. We examined three ICSI methods to determine their clinical efficiency by comparing the survival, fertilization, good-quality day-3 embryo, pregnancy, and live birth rates. The three ICSI methods tested were conventional ICSI (CI) (using beveled spiked micropipettes with a wall thickness of 1 μm), conventional Piezo-ICSI (CPI) (using flat-tipped micropipettes with a wall thickness of 0.925 μm), and improved Piezo-ICSI (IPI) (using flat-tipped micropipettes with a wall thickness of 0.625 μm). We collectively investigated 2020 mature oocytes retrieved from 437 patients between October 2010 and January 2014. The survival rates after CI, CPI, and IPI were 90, 95, and 99 %, respectively. The fertilization rates after CI, CPI, and IPI were 68, 75, and 89 %, respectively. The good-quality day-3 embryo rates after CI, CPI, and IPI were 37, 43, and 55 %, respectively. The pregnancy rates after the transfer of good-quality day-3 embryo of CI, CPI, and IPI were 19, 21, and 31 %, respectively. The live birth rates of CI, CPI, and IPI were 15, 16, and 25 %, respectively. Significantly higher survival, fertilization, good-quality day-3 embryo, pregnancy, and live birth rates were obtained using IPI. When comparing the IPI to the CI and CPI, the results revealed that the Piezo-ICSI using flat-tipped micropipettes with a wall thickness of 0.625 μm significantly improves survival, fertilization, good-quality day-3 embryo, pregnancy, and live birth rates.

Utility of the General Ability Index (GAI) and Cognitive Proficiency Index (CPI) with Survivors of Pediatric Brain Tumors: Comparison to Full Scale IQ and Premorbid IQ Estimates

PubMed Central

Kahalley, Lisa S.; Winter-Greenberg, Amanda; Stancel, Heather; Ris, M. Douglas; Gragert, Marsha

2016-01-01

Introduction Pediatric brain tumor survivors are at risk for working memory and processing speed impairment. The General Ability Index (GAI) provides an estimate of intellectual functioning that is less influenced by working memory and processing speed than a Full Scale IQ (FSIQ). The Cognitive Proficiency Index (CPI) provides a measure of efficient information processing derived from working memory and processing speed tasks. We examined the utility of the GAI and CPI to quantify neurocognitive outcomes in a sample of pediatric brain tumor survivors. Methods GAI, CPI, and FSIQ scores from the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Fourth Edition (WISC-IV) were examined for 57 pediatric brain tumor survivors (ages 6–16) treated with cranial radiation therapy (RT). Results GAI scores were higher than FSIQ and CPI scores, both p < .001. Lower CPI scores were associated with history of craniospinal irradiation and time since RT. Lower FSIQ and GAI scores were associated with higher RT dose and time since RT. The rate of clinically significant GAI-FSIQ discrepancies in our sample was greater than observed in the WISC-IV standardization sample, p < .001. Estimated premorbid IQ scores were higher than GAI, p < .01, and FSIQ scores, p < .001. Conclusions Pediatric brain tumor survivors exhibit weaker cognitive proficiency than expected for age, while general reasoning ability remains relatively spared. The GAI may be useful to quantify the intellectual potential of a survivor when appropriate accommodations are in place for relative cognitive proficiency weaknesses. The CPI may be a particularly sensitive outcome measure of treatment-related cognitive change in this population. PMID:27295192

Predicting Subsequent Service Potential for Former Army Prisoners

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-03-25

Esteem Scale, and Hudson’s (1974) Index of Self - Esteem , fou9d significant d_ e.re.e beteen-gr duates-and-non-gj The results of the two studies are...a greater need for autonomy, on the EPPS, and less self - esteem , on the Rosenberg (1965) scale. 400 Table 1 Predicting Graduation/Discharge from...Acceptance (CPI) .588 Education Completed .410 Socialization (CPI) -.445 Highest Pay Grade -.388 Social Presence (CPI) -.443 Marital Status .388 Self - Esteem (Rosenberg

Degradation of Misfolded Endoplasmic Reticulum Glycoproteins in Saccharomyces cerevisiae Is Determined by a Specific Oligosaccharide Structure

PubMed Central

Jakob, Claude A.; Burda, Patricie; Roth, Jürgen; Aebi, Markus

1998-01-01

In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, transfer of N-linked oligosaccharides is immediately followed by trimming of ER-localized glycosidases. We analyzed the influence of specific oligosaccharide structures for degradation of misfolded carboxypeptidase Y (CPY). By studying the trimming reactions in vivo, we found that removal of the terminal α1,2 glucose and the first α1,3 glucose by glucosidase I and glucosidase II respectively, occurred rapidly, whereas mannose cleavage by mannosidase I was slow. Transport and maturation of correctly folded CPY was not dependent on oligosaccharide structure. However, degradation of misfolded CPY was dependent on specific trimming steps. Degradation of misfolded CPY with N-linked oligosaccharides containing glucose residues was less efficient compared with misfolded CPY bearing the correctly trimmed Man8GlcNAc2 oligosaccharide. Reduced rate of degradation was mainly observed for mis- folded CPY bearing Man6GlcNAc2, Man7GlcNAc2 and Man9GlcNAc2 oligosaccharides, whereas Man8GlcNAc2 and, to a lesser extent, Man5GlcNAc2 oligosaccharides supported degradation. These results suggest a role for the Man8GlcNAc2 oligosaccharide in the degradation process. They may indicate the presence of a Man8GlcNAc2-binding lectin involved in targeting of misfolded glycoproteins to degradation in S. cerevisiae. PMID:9732283

Determination of hydrocarbons transported by urban runoff in sediments of São Gonçalo Channel (Pelotas - RS, Brazil).

PubMed

Sanches Filho, Pedro J; Böhm, Emerson M; Böhm, Giani M B; Montenegro, Gissele O; Silveira, Lucas A; Betemps, Glauco R

2017-01-30

A high concentration of hydrocarbons in the environment is indicative of pollution. To evaluate the effect of hydrocarbons transported by urban runoff, the present study analyzed total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPHs), aliphatic hydrocarbons (AHs), unresolved complex mixture (UCM), and n-alkanes of the sediments of the canal that cross the urban area of Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The carbon preference index (CPI), terrigenous/aquatic ratio (TAR), and pristane/phytane ratio were determined. The TPH content ranged from 177,043.7μg·kg -1 ±13.4% to 5,892,667.0μg·kg -1 ±5.9%. The total aliphatic content ranged from 116,268.8μg·kg -1 ±11.1% to 2,393,592.6μg·kg -1 ±7.7%, indicating chronic contamination of n-alkanes petrogenic and biogenic sources. The levels of hydrocarbons (TPH, AHs, and n-alkanes) were considered relatively high, confirming the effect of urban runoff on the drainage system of cities and their consequent effect on the estuarine region of Patos Lagoon and other water resources. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Practice-based evidence study design for comparative effectiveness research.

PubMed

Horn, Susan D; Gassaway, Julie

2007-10-01

To describe a new, rigorous, comprehensive practice-based evidence for clinical practice improvement (PBE-CPI) study methodology, and compare its features, advantages, and disadvantages to those of randomized controlled trials and sophisticated statistical methods for comparative effectiveness research. PBE-CPI incorporates natural variation within data from routine clinical practice to determine what works, for whom, when, and at what cost. It uses the knowledge of front-line caregivers, who develop study questions and define variables as part of a transdisciplinary team. Its comprehensive measurement framework provides a basis for analyses of significant bivariate and multivariate associations between treatments and outcomes, controlling for patient differences, such as severity of illness. PBE-CPI studies can uncover better practices more quickly than randomized controlled trials or sophisticated statistical methods, while achieving many of the same advantages. We present examples of actionable findings from PBE-CPI studies in postacute care settings related to comparative effectiveness of medications, nutritional support approaches, incontinence products, physical therapy activities, and other services. Outcomes improved when practices associated with better outcomes in PBE-CPI analyses were adopted in practice.

Exploring relationships between building and transportation energy use of residents in U.S. metropolitan regions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pede, Timothy J.

There is much potential to decrease energy consumption in the U.S. by encouraging compact, centralized development. Although many studies have examined the extent to which built environment and demographic factors are related to household energy use, few have considered both building and transportation energy together. We hypothesized that residents living further from city centers, or urban cores, consume more energy for both purposes than their inner city counterparts, resulting in a direct relationship between building and transportation energy usage. This hypothesis was tested with two case studies. The first focused on New York City. Annual building energy per unit of parcels, or tax lots, containing large multi-family structures was compared to the daily transportation energy use per household of traffic analysis zones (TAZs) (estimated with a regional travel demand model). Transportation energy showed a strong spatial pattern, with distance to urban core explaining 63% of variation in consumption. Building energy use was randomly distributed, resulting in a weak negative correlation with transportation energy. However, both correlation with distance to urban core and transportation energy became significant and positive when portion of detached single-family units for TAZs was used as a proxy for building energy. Structural equation models (SEMs) revealed a direct relationship between log lot depth and both uses of energy, and inverse relationship between portion of attached housing units and transportation energy. This supports the notion that sprawling development increases both the building and transportation energy consumption of households. For the second analysis, annual building and automobile energy use per household were estimated for block groups across the 50 most populous U.S. metropolitan regions with Esri Consumer Expenditure Data. Both forms of energy consumption per household were lowest in inner cities and increased at greater distances from urban cores. Although there may be some error in estimates from modeled expenditure data, characteristics associated with lower energy use, such as portion of attached housing units and commuters that utilize transit or pedestrian modes, were negatively correlated with distance to urban core. Overall, this work suggests there are spatial patterns to household energy consumption, with households further from urban cores using more building and transportation energy. There is the greatest gain in efficiency to be had by suburban residents.

Growth factor controls on the distribution and carbon isotope composition of n-alkanes in leaf wax

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jia, C.; Xie, S.; Huang, X.

2012-12-01

Cuticular wax plays pivotal physiological and ecological roles in the interactions between plants and the environments in which they grow. Plant-derived long-chain alkanes are more resistant to decay than other biochemical polymers. n-Alkane distributions (Carbon Preference Index (CPI) values and Average Chain Length (ACL) values) and carbon isotopic values are used widely in palaeoenvironmental reconstruction. However, there is little information available on how growth stages of the plant might influence the abundance of n-alkanes in the natural environment. In this study, we analyzed n-alkane distributions and carbon isotope data from two tree species (Cinnamomum camphora (L.) Presl. and Liquidambar formosana Hance) collected monthly from 2009 to 2011 in Nanwang Shan, Wuhan, Hubei Province. CPI values for n-alkanes from C. camphora remained stable in autumn and winter but fluctuated dramatically during spring and autumn each year. Positive correlations between CPI values and the relative content of (C27+C29) were observed in both sun and shade leaves of C. camphora from April to July. In L. formosana, CPI values decreased gradually from April to December. A similar trend was observed in all three years suggesting that growth stages rather than temperature or relative humidity affected the CPI values on a seasonal timescale. In the samples of L. formosana ACL values were negatively correlated with CPI values in the growing season (from April to July) and positively correlated with CPI values in the other seasons. The δ13C values of C29 and C31 n-alkanes displayed more negative carbon isotopic values in autumn and winter compared with leaves sampled at the start of the growing season from both trees. The δ13C values of C29 and C31 n-alkanes of L. formosana decreased from April to December. These results demonstrate the importance of elucidating the growing factors that influence the distribution and δ13C values of alkanes in modern leaves prior to using CPI, ACL, and isotopic shifts as indicators of palaeoenvironmental changes on short timescales.

Update on inflation of journal prices: Brandon/Hill list journals and the scientific, technical, and medical publishing market*

PubMed Central

Schlimgen, Joan B.; Kronenfeld, Michael R.

2004-01-01

Objective: The original study of journal prices, using the “Brandon/ Hill Selected List of Books and Journals for the Small Medical Library,” was first published in 1980 and periodically updated. This research continues to measure price increases for these titles for the periods 1996 to 1999 and 1999 to 2002. Methodology: The 111 journal titles that have appeared in each published list from 1967 to 2001 were included in the study. Institutional subscription price data were gathered for each journal for the years 1996, 1999, and 2002 and were compared to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the same years. Results: The average journal price continues to rise significantly and is independent of the CPI. The study found that prices have jumped 51.9% from 1996 to 1999 and 32% from 1999 to 2002, which is consistent with nearly every recent journal price study. Conclusion: The unprecedented rise in journal prices negatively affects the purchasing power of medical libraries. This paper examines the economic and technological pressures on the science, technology, and medical journals market that contribute to high prices and identifies a number of initiatives in the biological and health sciences that utilize alternative models for disseminating scientific research. PMID:15243636

Trends in medical care cost--revisited.

PubMed

Vincenzino, J V

1997-01-01

Market forces have had a greater influence on the health care sector than anticipated. The increased use of managed care, particularly HMOs, has been largely responsible for a sharp deceleration in the rise of medical care costs. After recording double-digit growth for much of the post-Medicare/Medicaid period, national health expenditures rose just 5.1 percent and 5.5 percent in 1994 and 1995, respectively. The medical care Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 3.5 percent in 1996-just 0.5 percent above the overall CPI. The delivery and financing of health care continues to evolve within a framework of cost constraints. As such, mergers, acquisitions and provider alliance groups will remain an integral part of the health industry landscape. However, cost savings are likely to become more difficult to achieve, especially if the "quality of care" issue becomes more pronounced. National health expenditures, which surpassed the $1 trillion mark in 1996, are projected to rise to $1.4 trillion by the year 2000--representing a 7.2 percent growth rate from 1995. In any event, demographics and technological advances suggest that the health sector will demand a rising share of economic resources. The ratio of health care expenditures to gross domestic product is forecast to rise from 13.6 percent in 1995 to 15 percent by the year 2000.

Synthesis of Ruthenium Carbonyl Complexes with Phosphine or Substituted Cp Ligands, and Their Activity in the Catalytic Deoxygenation of 1,2-Propanediol

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

Ghosh, Prasenjit; Fagan, Paul J.; Marshall, William J.

2009-07-20

A ruthenium hydride with a bulky substituted Cp ligand, (CpiPr4)Ru(CO)2H (CpiPr4 = C5(i-C3H7)4H) was prepared from the reaction of Ru3(CO)12 with 1,2,3,4-tetraisopropylcyclopentadiene. The molecular structure of (CpiPr4)Ru(CO)2H was determined by x-ray crystallography. The ruthenium hydride complex (C5Bz5)Ru(CO)2H (Bz = CH2Ph) was similarly prepared. The Ru-Ru bonded dimer, [(1,2,3-trimethylindenyl)Ru(CO)2]2, was produced from the reaction of 1,2,3-trimethylindene with Ru3(CO)12, and protonation of this dimer with HOTf gives {[(1,2,3-trimethylindenyl)Ru(CO)2]2(μ H)}+OTf –. A series of ruthenium hydride complexes CpRu(CO)(L)H [L = P(OPh)3, PCy3, PMe3, P(p C6H4F)3] were prepared by reaction of Cp(CO)2RuH with added L. Protonation of (CpiPr4)Ru(CO)2H, Cp*Ru(CO)2H or CpRu(CO)[P(OPh)3]H by HOTf 80more » °C led to equilibria with the cationic dihydrogen complexes, but H2 was released at higher temperatures. Protonation of CpRu[P(OPh)3]2H with HOTf gave an observable dihydrogen complex, {CpRu[P(OPh)3]2(η2 H2)}+OTf – that was converted at -20 °C to the dihydride complex {CpRu[P(OPh)3]2(H)2}+OTf –. These Ru complexes serve as catalyst precursors for the catalytic deoxygenation of 1,2-propanediol to give n-propanol. The catalytic reactions were carried out in sulfolane solvent with added HOTf under H2 (750 psi) at 110 °C. This work was supported by the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Office of Basic Energy Sciences, Chemical Sciences program. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory is operated by Battelle for DOE.« less

Nanorod Mobility within Entangled Wormlike Micelle Solutions

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

Lee, Jonghun; Grein-Iankovski, Aline; Narayanan, Suresh

In the semi-dilute regime, wormlike micelles form an isotropic entangled microstructure that is similar to that of an entangled polymer solution with a characteristic, nanometer-scale entanglement mesh size. We report a combined x-ray photon correlation spectroscopy (XPCS) and rheology study to investigate the translational dynamics of gold nanorods in semi-dilute solutions of entangled wormlike micelles formed by the surfactant cetylpyridinium chloride (CPyCl) and the counter-ion sodium salicylate (NaSal). The CPyCl concentration is varied to tune the entanglement mesh size over a range that spans from approximately equal to the nanorod diameter to larger than the nanorod length. The NaSal concentrationmore » is varied along with the CPyCl concentration so that the solutions have the maximum viscosity for given CPyCl concentration. On short time scales the nanorods are localized on a length scale matching that expected from the high-frequency elastic modulus of the solutions as long as the mesh size is smaller than the rod length. On longer time scales, the nanorods undergo free diffusion. At the highest CPyCl concentrations, the nanorod diffusivity approaches the value expected based on the macroscopic viscosity of the solutions, but it increases with decreasing CPyCl concentration more rapidly than expected from the macroscopic viscosity. A recent model by Cai et al. [Cai, L.-H.; Panyukov, S.; Rubinstein, M. Macromolecules 2015, 48, 847-862.] for nanoparticle “hopping” diffusion in entangled polymer solutions accounts quantitatively for this enhanced diffusivity.« less

Nanorod Mobility within Entangled Wormlike Micelle Solutions

DOE PAGES

Lee, Jonghun; Grein-Iankovski, Aline; Narayanan, Suresh; ...

2016-12-20

In the semi-dilute regime, wormlike micelles form an isotropic entangled microstructure that is similar to that of an entangled polymer solution with a characteristic, nanometer-scale entanglement mesh size. We report a combined x-ray photon correlation spectroscopy (XPCS) and rheology study to investigate the translational dynamics of gold nanorods in semi-dilute solutions of entangled wormlike micelles formed by the surfactant cetylpyridinium chloride (CPyCl) and the counter-ion sodium salicylate (NaSal). The CPyCl concentration is varied to tune the entanglement mesh size over a range that spans from approximately equal to the nanorod diameter to larger than the nanorod length. The NaSal concentrationmore » is varied along with the CPyCl concentration so that the solutions have the maximum viscosity for given CPyCl concentration. On short time scales the nanorods are localized on a length scale matching that expected from the high-frequency elastic modulus of the solutions as long as the mesh size is smaller than the rod length. On longer time scales, the nanorods undergo free diffusion. At the highest CPyCl concentrations, the nanorod diffusivity approaches the value expected based on the macroscopic viscosity of the solutions, but it increases with decreasing CPyCl concentration more rapidly than expected from the macroscopic viscosity. A recent model by Cai et al. [Cai, L.-H.; Panyukov, S.; Rubinstein, M. Macromolecules 2015, 48, 847-862.] for nanoparticle “hopping” diffusion in entangled polymer solutions accounts quantitatively for this enhanced diffusivity.« less

Periodontal status, tooth loss and self-reported periodontal problems effects on oral impacts on daily performances, OIDP, in pregnant women in Uganda: a cross-sectional study

PubMed Central

Wandera, Margaret N; Engebretsen, Ingunn M; Rwenyonyi, Charles M; Tumwine, James; Åstrøm, Anne N

2009-01-01

Background An important aim of antenatal care is to improve maternal health- and well being of which oral health is an important part. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of oral impacts on daily performances (OIDP) during pregnancy, using a locally adapted OIDP inventory, and to document how periodontal status, tooth-loss and reported periodontal problems are related to oral impacts. Methods Pregnant women at about 7 months gestational age who were members of a community based multi-center cluster randomized community trial: PROMISE EBF: Safety and Efficacy of Exclusive Breast feeding in the Era of HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa, were recruited in the district of Mbale, Eastern Uganda between January 2006 and June 2008. A total of 877 women (participation rate 877/886, 98%, mean age 25.6, sd 6.4) completed an interview and 713 (participation rate 713/886, 80.6%, mean age 25.5 sd 6.6) were examined clinically with respect to tooth-loss and according to the Community Periodontal Index, CPI. Results Seven of the original 8 OIDP items were translated into the local language. Cronbach's alpha was 0.85 and 0.80 in urban and rural areas, respectively. The prevalence of oral impacts was 25% in the urban and 30% in the rural area. Corresponding estimates for CPI>0 were 63% and 68%. Adjusted ORs for having any oral impact were 1.1 (95% CI 0.7-1.7), 1.9 (95% CI 1.2-3.1), 1.7 (1.1-2.7) and 2.0 (0.9-4.4) if having respectively, CPI>0, at least one tooth lost, tooth loss in molars and tooth loss in molar-and anterior regions. The Adjusted ORs for any oral impact if reporting periodontal problems ranged from 2.7(95% CI 1.8-4.2) (bad breath) through 8.6(95% CI 5.6-12.9) (chewing problem) to 22.3 (95% CI 13.3-35.9) (toothache). Conclusion A substantial proportion of pregnant women experienced oral impacts. The OIDP impacts were most and least substantial regarding functional- and social concerns, respectively. The OIDP varied systematically with tooth loss in the molar region, reported chewing-and periodontal problems. Pregnant women's oral health should be addressed through antenatal care programs in societies with limited access to regular dental care facilities. PMID:19828031

The effectiveness of CPI model to improve positive attitude toward science (PATS) for pre-service physics teacher

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sunarti, T.; Wasis; Madlazim; Suyidno; Prahani, B. K.

2018-03-01

In the previous research, learning material based Construction, Production, and Implementation (CPI) model has been developed to improve scientific literacy and positive attitude toward science for pre-service physics teacher. CPI model has 4 phases, included: 1) Motivation; 2) Construction (Cycle I); 3) Production (Cycle II); and 4) Evaluation. This research is aimed to analyze the effectiveness of CPI model towards the improvement Positive Attitude toward Science (PATS) for pre-service physics teacher. This research used one group pre-test and post-test design on 160 pre-service physics teacher divided into 4 groups at Lambung Mangkurat University and Surabaya State University (Indonesia), academic year 2016/2017. Data collection was conducted through questioner, observation, and interview. Positive attitude toward science for pre-service physics teacher measurement were conducted through Positive Attitude toward Science Evaluation Sheet (PATSES). The data analysis technique was done by using Wilcoxon test and n-gain. The results showed that there was a significant increase in positive attitude toward science for pre-service physics teacher at α = 5%, with n-gain average of high category. Thus, the CPI model is effective for improving positive attitude toward science for pre-service physics teacher.

Protein-energy malnutrition during early childhood and periodontal disease in the permanent dentition of Haitian adolescents aged 12-19 years: a retrospective cohort study.

PubMed

Russell, Stefanie L; Psoter, Walter J; Jean-Charles, Germain; Prophte, Samuel; Gebrian, Bette

2010-05-01

The aim of this retrospective cohort study was to examine whether exposure to early childhood protein-energy malnutrition (ECPEM) is related to worsened periodontal status in the permanent dentition during adolescence. A trained clinician/researcher examined the periodontal status of 96 persons aged 12-19 living in rural Haiti using WHO diagnostic criteria (Community Periodontal Index, WHO 1997). Malnutrition data of the study participants had been collected during the years 1988-1993 by a nongovernmental organization. We compared those who had been malnourished in early childhood, based on z-scores for anthropomorphic data collected during the first 5 years of life, with those who had not been malnourished, regarding mean Community Periodontal Index (CPI) score, controlling for age, sex, socioeconomic status, and smoking. Overall, 57.3% of the participants demonstrated a CPI score of 3 or greater in at least one sextant. ECPEM was independently and positively related to mean CPI score, when controlling for sex and smoking. More than half of these young Haitians demonstrated CPI scores of 3 or greater, and ECPEM was related to poorer periodontal status, as measured by CPI, in the permanent dentition.

Impact of urban sprawl on United States residential energy use

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rong, Fang

Improving energy efficiency through technological advances has been the focus of U.S. energy policy for decades. However, there is evidence that technology alone will be neither sufficient nor timely enough to solve looming crises associated with fossil fuel dependence and resulting greenhouse gas accumulation. Hence attention is shifting to demand-side measures. While the impact of urban sprawl on transportation energy use has been studied to a degree, the impact of sprawl on non-transport residential energy use represents a new area of inquiry. This dissertation is the first study linking sprawl to residential energy use and provides empirical support for compact land-use developments, which, as a demand-side measure, might play an important role in achieving sustainable residential energy consumption. This dissertation develops an original conceptual framework linking urban sprawl to residential energy use through electricity transmission and distribution losses and two mediators, housing stock and formation of urban heat islands. These two mediators are the focuses of this dissertation. By tapping multiple databases and performing statistical and geographical spatial analyses, this dissertation finds that (1) big houses consume more energy than small ones and single-family detached housing consumes more energy than multifamily or single-family attached housing; (2) residents of sprawling metro areas are more likely to live in single-family detached rather than attached or multifamily housing and are also expected to live in big houses; (3) a compact metro area is expected to have stronger urban heat island effects; (4) nationwide, urban heat island phenomena bring about a small energy reward, due to less energy demand on space heating, while they impose an energy penalty in States with a hot climate like Texas, due to higher energy demand for cooling; and taken all these together, (5) residents of sprawling metro areas are expected to consume more energy at home than residents of compact metro areas. This dissertation concludes with the policy implications that emerged from this study and suggestions for future research as well.

A Microprocessor Development System for the ALTOS Series Microcomputers.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-06-01

location, and 3) routines for online user self-help and system use instructions. The primary ccnsideration in the desin of the HOST control program was...TO LOWER CASE CPI ;rYNAMIC SET ITEMIZE JZ MAKEI CPI Vt" ;LYNAMIC SET TOTAL ONLY JZ MAKET CPI "e JNZ STACKIT ;RESTART TEST IF NOT E MEM55 LXI HMEMM...RESET STACK JMP MEM0I ;RESTART TEST MAKEI MVI All ;MAKE ITEMIZE STA MEMP CALL BSOUT RET MAKET MJI A,O ;MAKE TOTAL ONLY STA MEMP CALL BSOUT RET * LONE WITH

Exploring the Power Output of Small Wind Turbines in Urban San Antonio, Texas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Casillas, Jose; Sperduti, Stephanie; Cardenas, Rosa

2015-03-01

The means of transporting power from a centralized power plant by transmission lines has several disadvantages. Electricity transmission and distribution networks are costly, require long planning processes and are unsightly to residents. These networks are also susceptible to natural disasters creating massive disruptions to consumers. For these reasons distributed power sources such as solar panels and small wind turbines are becoming a more desirable and viable means of energy production. We report on the status of a study to determine the maximum output power of small wind turbines in urban San Antonio, Texas. Wind speed data along with power measurements from small wind turbines in urban San Antonio will be reported. U.S. Department of Education Title V HSI-STEM and Articulation Award No. P031C110145.

24 CFR 3282.403 - Consumer complaint and information referral.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 5 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Consumer complaint and information... HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Consumer Complaint Handling and Remedial Actions § 3282.403 Consumer complaint and information referral. When a consumer...

24 CFR 3282.403 - Consumer complaint and information referral.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 5 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Consumer complaint and information... HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Consumer Complaint Handling and Remedial Actions § 3282.403 Consumer complaint and information referral. When a consumer...

24 CFR 3282.403 - Consumer complaint and information referral.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 5 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Consumer complaint and information... HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Consumer Complaint Handling and Remedial Actions § 3282.403 Consumer complaint and information referral. When a consumer...

24 CFR 3282.403 - Consumer complaint and information referral.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 5 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Consumer complaint and information... HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Consumer Complaint Handling and Remedial Actions § 3282.403 Consumer complaint and information referral. When a consumer...

CPI motif interaction is necessary for capping protein function in cells

PubMed Central

Edwards, Marc; McConnell, Patrick; Schafer, Dorothy A.; Cooper, John A.

2015-01-01

Capping protein (CP) has critical roles in actin assembly in vivo and in vitro. CP binds with high affinity to the barbed end of actin filaments, blocking the addition and loss of actin subunits. Heretofore, models for actin assembly in cells generally assumed that CP is constitutively active, diffusing freely to find and cap barbed ends. However, CP can be regulated by binding of the ‘capping protein interaction' (CPI) motif, found in a diverse and otherwise unrelated set of proteins that decreases, but does not abolish, the actin-capping activity of CP and promotes uncapping in biochemical experiments. Here, we report that CP localization and the ability of CP to function in cells requires interaction with a CPI-motif-containing protein. Our discovery shows that cells target and/or modulate the capping activity of CP via CPI motif interactions in order for CP to localize and function in cells. PMID:26412145

A web-based tree crown condition training and evaluation tool for urban and community forestry

Treesearch

Matthew F. Winn; Neil A. Clark; Philip A. Araman; Sang-Mook Lee

2007-01-01

Training personnel for natural resource related field work can be a costly and time-consuming process. For that reason, web-based training is considered by many to be a more attractive alternative to on-site training. The U.S. Forest Service Southern Research Station unit with Virginia Tech cooperators in Blacksburg, Va., are in the process of constructing a web site...

Section 202: Present Problems--Proposed Alternatives. Hearing before the Subcommittee on Housing and Consumer Interests of the Select Committee on Aging. House of Representatives, Ninety-Eighth Congress, Second Session.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Congress of the U.S., Washington, DC. House Select Committee on Aging.

This document contains testimony and prepared statements from the Congressional hearing called to review program operations of the section 202 Direct Loan Program, a federal housing effort for the elderly and handicapped. Witnesses include the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Multifamily Housing, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development…

Prognostic role of cardiac power index in ambulatory patients with advanced heart failure.

PubMed

Grodin, Justin L; Mullens, Wilfried; Dupont, Matthias; Wu, Yuping; Taylor, David O; Starling, Randall C; Tang, W H Wilson

2015-07-01

Cardiac pump function is often quantified by left ventricular ejection fraction by various imaging modalities. As the heart is commonly conceptualized as a hydraulic pump, cardiac power describes the hydraulic function of the heart. We aim to describe the prognostic value of resting cardiac power index (CPI) in ambulatory patients with advanced heart failure. We calculated CPI in 495 sequential ambulatory patients with advanced heart failure who underwent invasive haemodynamic assessment with longitudinal follow-up of adverse outcomes (all-cause mortality, cardiac transplantation, or ventricular assist device placement). The median CPI was 0.44 W/m(2) (interquartile range 0.37, 0.52). Over a median of 3.3 years, there were 117 deaths, 104 transplants, and 20 ventricular assist device placements in our cohort. Diminished CPI (<0.44 W/m(2) ) was associated with increased adverse outcomes [hazard ratio (HR) 2.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.8-3.1, P < 0.0001). The prognostic value of CPI remained significant after adjustment for age, gender, pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, cardiac index, pulmonary vascular resistance, left ventricular ejection fraction, and creatinine [HR 1.5, 95% CI 1.03-2.3, P = 0.04). Furthermore, CPI can risk stratify independently of peak oxygen consumption (HR 2.2, 95% CI 1.4-3.4, P = 0.0003). Resting cardiac power index provides independent and incremental prediction in adverse outcomes beyond traditional haemodynamic and cardio-renal risk factors. © 2015 The Authors. European Journal of Heart Failure © 2015 European Society of Cardiology.

Corrupt practices negatively influenced food security and live expectancy in developing countries

PubMed Central

Uchendu, Florence Ngozi; Abolarin, Thaddeus Olatunbosun

2015-01-01

Malnutrition is a global public health problem more prevalent in developing countries than in developed countries. Indicators of malnutrition include household food security and life expectancy. Corruption might be one of socio-political problems fuelling malnutrition in developing countries. The aim of this paper is to compare influence of corruption on food security, live expectancy (LE) and population in developed and developing countries. Thirty two least corrupt countries (LCC) and most corrupt countries (MCC) representing developed and developing countries were systematically selected using Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI). Countries’ data on population, food security index (FSI) and LE scores were obtained from Global food security index (GFSI) and Population reference bureau. T-test, Multivariate (Wilks’ Lambda), Pearson product moment analysis were performed to determine relationship between CPI, FSI, LE, and population in LCC and MCC at p<.05. Data were presented in tables, means and percentages. Mean CPI, Population, FSI, and LE in LCC and MCC were 71.5% and 24.2%; 34.8 and 41.7million; 75.0% and 37.4%; and 78.4years and 62.4years. There was a significant difference between CPI, FSI and LE in LCC and MCC (p < 0.05). CPI had a significant positive relationship with FSI and LE in LCC not MCC. There was also a significant relationship between FSI and LE in MCC. Low CPI influenced high FSI and LE in LCC while Low LE was associated with low FSI in MCC. Policies discouraging corrupt practices and promoting good governance should be embraced to eradicate malnutrition in developing countries. PMID:26090058

Corrupt practices negatively influenced food security and live expectancy in developing countries.

PubMed

Uchendu, Florence Ngozi; Abolarin, Thaddeus Olatunbosun

2015-01-01

Malnutrition is a global public health problem more prevalent in developing countries than in developed countries. Indicators of malnutrition include household food security and life expectancy. Corruption might be one of socio-political problems fuelling malnutrition in developing countries. The aim of this paper is to compare influence of corruption on food security, live expectancy (LE) and population in developed and developing countries. Thirty two least corrupt countries (LCC) and most corrupt countries (MCC) representing developed and developing countries were systematically selected using Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI). Countries' data on population, food security index (FSI) and LE scores were obtained from Global food security index (GFSI) and Population reference bureau. T-test, Multivariate (Wilks' Lambda), Pearson product moment analysis were performed to determine relationship between CPI, FSI, LE, and population in LCC and MCC at p < .05. Data were presented in tables, means and percentages. Mean CPI, Population, FSI, and LE in LCC and MCC were 71.5% and 24.2%; 34.8 and 41.7 million; 75.0% and 37.4%; and 78.4 years and 62.4 years. There was a significant difference between CPI, FSI and LE in LCC and MCC (p < 0.05). CPI had a significant positive relationship with FSI and LE in LCC not MCC. There was also a significant relationship between FSI and LE in MCC. Low CPI influenced high FSI and LE in LCC while Low LE was associated with low FSI in MCC. Policies discouraging corrupt practices and promoting good governance should be embraced to eradicate malnutrition in developing countries.

Interdependent recovery of adults with schizophrenia: Asian American consumer perspectives of family involvement and influence.

PubMed

Lee, Karen Kyeunghae; Yamada, Ann-Marie; Kim, Min Ah; Dinh, Tam Q

2015-09-01

Family involvement is important in the recovery experience of culturally diverse adults with schizophrenia. However, little is known about the influence of family among consumers purported to have close family ties without regular contact. This study explored Asian American consumers' views about family relationships and participation in their recovery. Secondary analysis of qualitative data from a larger project was conducted to explore family related themes of 8 Asian Americans receiving services from recovery-focused programs in urban Southern California. Most consumers described their family support as adequate while simultaneously reporting limited family involvement. Asia-born and U.S.-born Asian consumers varied in describing family support, suggesting providers consider nativity in culturally responsive service delivery. Families need not be present to affect the perspectives of Asian Americans receiving recovery-oriented services. The extent of family influences on recovery, beyond the initial determination of current family contact, requires further exploration. (c) 2015 APA, all rights reserved).

Protein-energy malnutrition during early childhood and periodontal disease in the permanent dentition of Haitian adolescents aged 12–19 years: a retrospective cohort study

PubMed Central

RUSSELL, STEFANIE L.; PSOTER, WALTER J.; JEAN-CHARLES, GERMAIN; PROPHTE, SAMUEL; GEBRIAN, BETTE

2010-01-01

Objectives The aim of this retrospective cohort study was to examine whether exposure to early childhood protein-energy malnutrition (ECPEM) is related to worsened periodontal status in the permanent dentition during adolescence. Design A trained clinician/researcher examined the periodontal status of 96 persons aged 12–19 living in rural Haiti using WHO diagnostic criteria (Community Periodontal Index, WHO 1997). Malnutrition data of the study participants had been collected during the years 1988–1993 by a nongovernmental organization. We compared those who had been malnourished in early childhood, based on z-scores for anthropomorphic data collected during the first 5 years of life, with those who had not been malnourished, regarding mean Community Periodontal Index (CPI) score, controlling for age, sex, socioeconomic status, and smoking. Results Overall, 57.3% of the participants demonstrated a CPI score of 3 or greater in at least one sextant. ECPEM was independently and positively related to mean CPI score, when controlling for sex and smoking. Conclusions More than half of these young Haitians demonstrated CPI scores of 3 or greater, and ECPEM was related to poorer periodontal status, as measured by CPI, in the permanent dentition. PMID:20409204

Considerations of "Combined Probability of Injury" in the next-generation USA frontal NCAP.

PubMed

Laituri, Tony R; Henry, Scott; Sullivan, Kaye; Nutt, Marvin

2010-08-01

The numerical basis for assigning star ratings in the next-generation USA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) for frontal impacts was assessed. That basis, the Combined Probability of Injury, or CPI, is the probability of an occupant sustaining an injury to any of the specified body regions. For an NCAP test, a CPI value is computed by (a) using risk curves to convert body-region responses from a test dummy into body-region risks and (b) using a theoretical, overarching CPI equation to convert those separate body-region risks into a single CPI value. Though the general concept of applying a CPI equation to assign star ratings has existed since 1994, there will be numerous changes to the 2011 frontal NCAP: there will be two additional body regions (n = 4 vs. 2), the injury probabilities will be evaluated for lower-severity (more likely) injury levels, and some of the occupant responses will change. These changes could yield more disperse CPIs that could yield more disperse ratings. However, the reasons for this increased dispersion should be consistent with real-world findings. Related assessments were the topic of this two-part study, focused on drivers. In Part 1, the CPI equation was assessed without applying risk curves. Specifically, field injury probabilities for the four body regions were used as inputs to the CPI equation, and the resulting equation-produced CPIs were compared with the field CPIs. In Part 2, subject to analyses of test dummy responses from recent NCAP tests, the effect of risk curve choice on CPIs was assessed. Specifically, dispersion statistics were compared for CPIs based on various underlying risk curves applied to data from 2001-2005 model year vehicles (n = 183). From Part 1, the theoretical CPI equation for four body regions demonstrated acceptable fidelity when provided field injury rates (R(2)= 0.92), with the equation-based CPIs being approximately 12 percent lower than those of ideal correlation. From Part 2, the 2011 NCAP protocol (i.e., application of a four-body-region CPI equation whose inputs were from risk curves) generally increased both the CPIs and their dispersion relative to the current NCAP protocol. However, the CPIs generally increased due to an emphasis on neck injury-an emphasis not observed in real-world crashes. Subject to alternative risk curves for the neck and chest, again there was increased dispersion of the CPIs, but the unrealistic emphasis on the neck was eliminated. However, risk estimates for the knee/thigh/hip (KTH) for NCAP-type events remained understated and did not fall within the confidence bands of the field data. Accordingly, KTH risk estimation is an area for future research.

24 CFR 3282.403 - Consumer complaint and information referral.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 5 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Consumer complaint and information... HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Consumer Complaint Handling and Remedial Actions § 3282.403 Consumer complaint and information referral. (a) Retailer...

78 FR 63433 - International Mailing Services: Proposed Price Changes-CPI

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-10-24

... POSTAL SERVICE 39 CFR Part 20 International Mailing Services: Proposed Price Changes--CPI AGENCY... mailing services price adjustments with the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC), effective on January 26... Postal Service, International Mail Manual (IMM[supreg]) to reflect these new price changes. DATES: We...

Inclusion probability for DNA mixtures is a subjective one-sided match statistic unrelated to identification information

PubMed Central

Perlin, Mark William

2015-01-01

Background: DNA mixtures of two or more people are a common type of forensic crime scene evidence. A match statistic that connects the evidence to a criminal defendant is usually needed for court. Jurors rely on this strength of match to help decide guilt or innocence. However, the reliability of unsophisticated match statistics for DNA mixtures has been questioned. Materials and Methods: The most prevalent match statistic for DNA mixtures is the combined probability of inclusion (CPI), used by crime labs for over 15 years. When testing 13 short tandem repeat (STR) genetic loci, the CPI-1 value is typically around a million, regardless of DNA mixture composition. However, actual identification information, as measured by a likelihood ratio (LR), spans a much broader range. This study examined probability of inclusion (PI) mixture statistics for 517 locus experiments drawn from 16 reported cases and compared them with LR locus information calculated independently on the same data. The log(PI-1) values were examined and compared with corresponding log(LR) values. Results: The LR and CPI methods were compared in case examples of false inclusion, false exclusion, a homicide, and criminal justice outcomes. Statistical analysis of crime laboratory STR data shows that inclusion match statistics exhibit a truncated normal distribution having zero center, with little correlation to actual identification information. By the law of large numbers (LLN), CPI-1 increases with the number of tested genetic loci, regardless of DNA mixture composition or match information. These statistical findings explain why CPI is relatively constant, with implications for DNA policy, criminal justice, cost of crime, and crime prevention. Conclusions: Forensic crime laboratories have generated CPI statistics on hundreds of thousands of DNA mixture evidence items. However, this commonly used match statistic behaves like a random generator of inclusionary values, following the LLN rather than measuring identification information. A quantitative CPI number adds little meaningful information beyond the analyst's initial qualitative assessment that a person's DNA is included in a mixture. Statistical methods for reporting on DNA mixture evidence should be scientifically validated before they are relied upon by criminal justice. PMID:26605124

Inclusion probability for DNA mixtures is a subjective one-sided match statistic unrelated to identification information.

PubMed

Perlin, Mark William

2015-01-01

DNA mixtures of two or more people are a common type of forensic crime scene evidence. A match statistic that connects the evidence to a criminal defendant is usually needed for court. Jurors rely on this strength of match to help decide guilt or innocence. However, the reliability of unsophisticated match statistics for DNA mixtures has been questioned. The most prevalent match statistic for DNA mixtures is the combined probability of inclusion (CPI), used by crime labs for over 15 years. When testing 13 short tandem repeat (STR) genetic loci, the CPI(-1) value is typically around a million, regardless of DNA mixture composition. However, actual identification information, as measured by a likelihood ratio (LR), spans a much broader range. This study examined probability of inclusion (PI) mixture statistics for 517 locus experiments drawn from 16 reported cases and compared them with LR locus information calculated independently on the same data. The log(PI(-1)) values were examined and compared with corresponding log(LR) values. The LR and CPI methods were compared in case examples of false inclusion, false exclusion, a homicide, and criminal justice outcomes. Statistical analysis of crime laboratory STR data shows that inclusion match statistics exhibit a truncated normal distribution having zero center, with little correlation to actual identification information. By the law of large numbers (LLN), CPI(-1) increases with the number of tested genetic loci, regardless of DNA mixture composition or match information. These statistical findings explain why CPI is relatively constant, with implications for DNA policy, criminal justice, cost of crime, and crime prevention. Forensic crime laboratories have generated CPI statistics on hundreds of thousands of DNA mixture evidence items. However, this commonly used match statistic behaves like a random generator of inclusionary values, following the LLN rather than measuring identification information. A quantitative CPI number adds little meaningful information beyond the analyst's initial qualitative assessment that a person's DNA is included in a mixture. Statistical methods for reporting on DNA mixture evidence should be scientifically validated before they are relied upon by criminal justice.

Ada (trade name) Compiler Validation Summary Report: Rational Environment, Version A.2.0.6 for Rational R1000.

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-05-24

RD-Ali57 830 ADA (TRADE NAME) COMPILER VALIDATION SUMMARY REPORT: 1/ RATIONAL ENVIRONMENT VERSION R296 FOR RATIONAL Ri888 (U) SOFTECH INC FAIRBORN OH...USoCPY WSSOS.UTM iTS GWAT % : 4 AVF Control Number: AVF-VSR-09.0585 0 IAda Compiler Validation Summary Report: Rational Environment Version A.2.0.6 For...1985 to May 1986 Environment Version A.2-0.6 For Rational RlOOO (Final) ______________ S. PLNOPftaiJSw mO. ftLOW@N WuCU ). aulwtar111. CONiTRACT 00

CPI-006 Alone and in Combination With CPI-444 and With Pembrolizumab for Patients With Advanced Cancers

ClinicalTrials.gov

2018-03-27

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer; Renal Cell Cancer; Colorectal Cancer; Triple Negative Breast Cancer; Cervical Cancer; Ovarian Cancer; Pancreatic Cancer; Endometrial Cancer; Sarcoma; Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck; Bladder Cancer; Metastatic Castration Resistant Prostate Cancer

A Positive Control for Detection of Functional CD4 T Cells in PBMC: The CPI Pool.

PubMed

Schiller, Annemarie; Zhang, Ting; Li, Ruliang; Duechting, Andrea; Sundararaman, Srividya; Przybyla, Anna; Kuerten, Stefanie; Lehmann, Paul V

2017-12-07

Testing of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) for immune monitoring purposes requires verification of their functionality. This is of particular concern when the PBMC have been shipped or stored for prolonged periods of time. While the CEF (Cytomegalo-, Epstein-Barr and Flu-virus) peptide pool has become the gold standard for testing CD8 cell functionality, a positive control for CD4 cells is so far lacking. The latter ideally consists of proteins so as to control for the functionality of the antigen processing and presentation compartments, as well. Aiming to generate a positive control for CD4 cells, we first selected 12 protein antigens from infectious/environmental organisms that are ubiquitous: Varicella, Influenza, Parainfluenza, Mumps, Cytomegalovirus, Streptococcus , Mycoplasma , Lactobacillus , Neisseria , Candida , Rubella, and Measles. Of these antigens, three were found to elicited interferon (IFN)-γ-producing CD4 cells in the majority of human test subjects: inactivated cytomegalo-, parainfluenza-, and influenza virions (CPI). While individually none of these three antigens triggered a recall response in all donors, the pool of the three (the 'CPI pool'), did. One hundred percent of 245 human donors tested were found to be CPI positive, including Caucasians, Asians, and African-Americans. Therefore, the CPI pool appears to be suitable to serve as universal positive control for verifying the functionality of CD4 and of antigen presenting cells.

CPI revision provides more accuracy in the medical care services component.

PubMed

Ford, I K; Sturm, P

1988-04-01

This revision, as in the past, enabled the Bureau to update medical care service expenditure weights in the CPI, including a more complete allocation of health insurance premiums. Instead of keeping the portion of premiums that go to benefits under health insurance, the expenditure weight for each benefit category has been added to the appropriate out-of-pocket expense. The unpublished health insurance item represents only the retained earnings portion of premiums paid by households. The specific item categories included in medical care services have also been updated and expanded. A study conducted during the developmental phase of the revision indicated that the Bureau should expand the eligible priced rates for physicians in the CPI to include not only the "self-pay" rate, but also other categories of payment as well. Another study indicated that the direct pricing of health insurance is not feasible because of the difficulty of factoring out from premium changes the effect of utilization levels and modified coverage. In pricing medical care service items, as with other item categories in the CPI, BLS attempts to exclude from price movement the effect of quality changes. However, some quality changes are difficult to assess or are not readily identified, for example, a change in the ratio of nurses to patients, and such changes may be reflected as part of the price change movement in the CPI.

Organizational performance and regulatory compliance as measured by clinical pertinence indicators before and after implementation of Anesthesia Information Management System (AIMS).

PubMed

Choi, Clark K; Saberito, Darlene; Tyagaraj, Changa; Tyagaraj, Kalpana

2014-01-01

Previous studies have suggested that electronic medical records (EMR) can lead to a greater reduction of medical errors and better adherence to regulatory compliance than paper medical records (PMR). In order to assess the organizational performance and regulatory compliance, we tracked different clinical pertinence indicators (CPI) in our anesthesia information management system (AIMS) for 5 years. These indicators comprised of the protocols from the Surgical Care Improvement Project (SCIP), elements of performance (EP) from The Joint Commission (TJC), and guidelines from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). A comprehensive AIMS was initiated and the CPI were collected from October 5, 2009 to December 31, 2010 (EMR period) and from January 1, 2006 to October 4, 2009 (PMR period). Fourteen CPI were found to be common between the EMR and PMR periods. Based on the statistical analysis of the 14 common CPI, there was a significant increase (p < 0.001) in overall compliance after the introduction of EMR compared to the PMR period. The increase in overall compliance was significantly progressive (p = 0.013) from year to year over 2006 and 2010. Of the 14 CPI, Documentation of a) medication doses, and b) monitoring of postoperative physiological status, mental status, and pain scores showed significant improvement (p < 0.001) during the EMR period compared to the PMR period.

47 CFR 32.9000 - Glossary of terms.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... Commerce Gross Domestic Product Chain-type Price Index (GDP-CPI), for the period from October 19, 1992 to... measured by the Department of Commerce Gross Domestic Product Chain-type Price Index (GDP-CPI)). Minor... reuse, the amount at which the material recovered is chargeable to Account 1220, Material and Supplies...

47 CFR 32.9000 - Glossary of terms.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... Commerce Gross Domestic Product Chain-type Price Index (GDP-CPI), for the period from October 19, 1992 to... measured by the Department of Commerce Gross Domestic Product Chain-type Price Index (GDP-CPI)). Minor... reuse, the amount at which the material recovered is chargeable to Account 1220, Material and Supplies...

47 CFR 32.9000 - Glossary of terms.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... Commerce Gross Domestic Product Chain-type Price Index (GDP-CPI), for the period from October 19, 1992 to... measured by the Department of Commerce Gross Domestic Product Chain-type Price Index (GDP-CPI)). Minor... reuse, the amount at which the material recovered is chargeable to Account 1220, Material and Supplies...

47 CFR 32.9000 - Glossary of terms.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... Commerce Gross Domestic Product Chain-type Price Index (GDP-CPI), for the period from October 19, 1992 to... measured by the Department of Commerce Gross Domestic Product Chain-type Price Index (GDP-CPI)). Minor... reuse, the amount at which the material recovered is chargeable to Account 1220, Material and Supplies...

Assessment of Consultation and Intervention Implementation: A Review of Conjoint Behavioral Consultation Studies

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Collier-Meek, Melissa A.; Sanetti, Lisa M. H.

2014-01-01

Reviews of treatment outcome literature indicate treatment integrity is not regularly assessed. In consultation, two levels of treatment integrity (i.e., consultant procedural integrity [CPI] and intervention treatment integrity [ITI]) provide relevant implementation data. Specifically, assessment of CPI and ITI are necessary to conclude (a)…

A Framework to Reduce Infectious Disease Risk from Urban Poultry in the United States

PubMed Central

Tobin, Molly R.; Goldshear, Jesse L.; Price, Lance B.; Graham, Jay P.

2015-01-01

Objectives Backyard poultry ownership is increasingly common in U.S. cities and is regulated at the local level. Human contact with live poultry is a well-known risk for infection with zoonotic pathogens, notably Salmonella, yet the ability of local jurisdictions to reduce the risk of infectious disease transmission from poultry to humans is unstudied. We reviewed urban poultry ordinances in the United States and reported Salmonella outbreaks from backyard poultry to identify regulatory gaps in preventing zoonotic pathogen transmission. Based on this analysis, we propose regulatory guidelines for U.S. cities to reduce infectious disease risk from backyard poultry ownership. Methods We assessed local ordinances in the 150 most populous U.S. jurisdictions for content related to noncommercial poultry ownership using online resources and communications with government officials. We also performed a literature review using publicly available data sources to identify human infectious disease outbreaks caused by contact with backyard poultry. Results Of the cities reviewed, 93% (n=139) permit poultry in some capacity. Most urban poultry ordinances share common characteristics focused on reducing nuisance to neighbors. Ordinances do not address many pathways of transmission relevant to poultry-to-human transmission of pathogens, such as manure management. Conclusions To reduce the risk of pathogen exposure from backyard poultry, urban ordinances should incorporate the following seven components: limited flock size, composting of manure in sealed containers, prohibition of slaughter, required veterinary care to sick birds, appropriate disposal of dead birds, annual permits linked to consumer education, and a registry of poultry owners. PMID:26346104

Are child eating patterns being transformed globally?

PubMed

Adair, Linda S; Popkin, Barry M

2005-07-01

To examine the extent to which child dietary patterns and trends are changing globally. Diets of children 2 to 19 years of age were studied with nationally representative data from Russia and the United States, nationwide data from China, and regional data from metropolitan Cebu, Philippines. Twenty-four-hour dietary recalls were examined at several points in time to examine trends in calories consumed away from home, snacking behavior, and soft drink and modern fast food consumption. Urban-rural trends were compared. U.S. and Cebu youth consume more than one-third of their daily calories and a higher proportion of snack calories from foods prepared away from home. In contrast, away from home food consumption is minimal in Chinese and Russian children. U.S. and Cebu youth consume about one-fifth of their total daily energy from snacks, but snacks provide a much lower proportion of energy in Russia ( approximately 16%) and China (where snacks provide only approximately 1% of energy). Fast food plays a much more dominant role in the American diet ( approximately 20% of energy vs. 2% to 7% in the other countries), but as yet does not contribute substantially to children's diets in the other countries. Urban-rural differences were found to be important, but narrowing over time, for China and Cebu, whereas they are widening for Russia. This research suggests that globalization of the fast food and other modern food sectors is beginning to affect child eating patterns in several countries undergoing nutrition transition. However, the contribution of fast food and soft drinks to the diet of children remains relatively small in China, Russia, and Cebu, Philippines, relative to the United States.

24 CFR 3282.207 - Manufactured home consumer manual requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 5 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Manufactured home consumer manual... HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Manufacturer Inspection and Certification Requirements § 3282.207 Manufactured home consumer manual requirements. (a) The...

24 CFR 3282.207 - Manufactured home consumer manual requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 5 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Manufactured home consumer manual... HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Manufacturer Inspection and Certification Requirements § 3282.207 Manufactured home consumer manual requirements. (a) The...

24 CFR 3282.207 - Manufactured home consumer manual requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 5 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Manufactured home consumer manual... HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Manufacturer Inspection and Certification Requirements § 3282.207 Manufactured home consumer manual requirements. (a) The...

24 CFR 3282.207 - Manufactured home consumer manual requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 5 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Manufactured home consumer manual... HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Manufacturer Inspection and Certification Requirements § 3282.207 Manufactured home consumer manual requirements. (a) The...

Performance Models of Testability.

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-08-01

4.1.17 Cost of Isolating Component/Part (CPI) 5J Cost of isolating components or parts at the depot is at CPI - n1 (HDC)(TPI)(NPI) where TPI = average...testing component N Deec N a aiur Yes(PFD D)S Cos ofi oaig op nn -- Cost ofcmpnn rmva n relaemn Exece Cost of omponn reatmovae anda

JPRS Report, Near East & South Asia.

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-03-30

to decide suo moto whether the situation was such that they (Armed Forces) should be deployed in the State. However, it was desirable to consult...between the CPI and the CPC, but it is being felt that differences of the past are "best left to the historians ." The relationship between the CPI and

The Use of the CPI to Ascertain Differences between More and Less Effective Student Paraprofessional Helpers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

German, Steven C.; Cottle, William C.

1981-01-01

A study of student paraprofessional peer counselors showed the California Psychological Inventory (CPI) to be useful in rating the effectiveness of Freshman Assistants. Results from individual criterion measures can also be applied to results from combinations of these measures. Future research should control for demographic influences. (JAC)

Thioredoxin/Glutaredoxin System of Chlorella1

PubMed Central

Tsang, Monica Lik-Shing

1981-01-01

Using the thioredoxin/glutaredoxin-dependent adenosine 3′-phosphate 5′-phosphosulfate reductase coupled assay system, the Chlorella thioredoxin/glutaredoxin system has been partially purified and characterized. A NADPH-thioredoxin reductase and two thioredoxin/glutaredoxin activities, designated as Chlorella thioredoxin/glutaredoxin protein I and II (CPI and CPII), were found in crude extracts of Chlorella. Similar to their counterparts from Escherichia coli, both CPI and CPII are heat-stable low molecular proteins of ≃14,000. While CPI (but not CPII) is a substrate for its homologous NADPH-thioredoxin reductase as well as for E. coli NADPH-thioredoxin reductase, CPII is better than CPI as a substrate for reduction by the glutathione system. Based on these properties, CPI and CPII may be classified as Chlorella thioredoxin and Chlorella glutaredoxin, respectively. The Chlorella NADPH-thioredoxin reductase (Mr = 72,000, with two 36,000-dalton subunits) resembles E. coli-thioredoxin reductase in size. Besides Chlorella thioredoxin, the Chlorella thioredoxin reductase will also use E. coli thioredoxin, but not glutaredoxin, as a substrate. Although a thioredoxin-like protein has been implicated in higher plant light-dependent sulfate reaction, neither Chlorella thioredoxin nor glutaredoxin can stimulate the thiol-dependent adenosine 5′-phosphosulfate-sulfotransferase reaction. Furthermore, Chlorella thioredoxin and glutaredoxin, in conjunction with an appropriate reductase system, cannot replace the thiol requirement of Chlorella adenosine 5′-phosphosulfate-sulfotransferase. The exact physiological roles and subcellular localization of the Chlorella thioredoxin and glutaredoxin systems remain to be determined. Images PMID:16662058

Effect of addition of thermally modified cowpea protein on sensory acceptability and textural properties of wheat bread and sponge cake.

PubMed

Campbell, Lydia; Euston, Stephen R; Ahmed, Mohamed A

2016-03-01

This paper investigates the sensory acceptability and textural properties of leavened wheat bread and sponge cake fortified with cow protein isolates that had been denatured and glycated by thermal treatment. Defatted cowpea flour was prepared from cow pea beans and the protein isolate was prepared (CPI) and thermally denatured (DCPI). To prepare glycated cowpea protein isolate (GCPI) the cowpea flour slurry was heat treated before isolation of the protein. CPI was more susceptible to thermal denaturation than GCPI as determined by turbidity and sulphydryl groups resulting in greater loss of solubility. This is attributed to the higher glycation degree and higher carbohydrate content of GCPI as demonstrated by glycoprotein staining of SDS PAGE gels. Water absorption of bread dough was significantly enhanced by DCPI and to a larger extent GCPI compared to the control, resulting in softer texture. CPI resulted in significantly increased crumb hardness in baked bread than the control whereas DCPI or GCPI resulted in significantly softer crumb. Bread fortified with 4% DCPI or GCPI was similar to control as regards sensory and textural properties whereas 4% CPI was significantly different, limiting its inclusion level to 2%. There was a trend for higher sensory acceptability scores for GCPI containing bread compared DCPI. Whole egg was replaced by 20% by GCPI (3.5%) in sponge cake without affecting the sensory acceptability, whereas CPI and DCPI supplemented cakes were significantly different than the control. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Virulence determinant of Chromobacterium violaceum].

PubMed

Miki, Tsuyoshi

2014-01-01

Chromobacterium violaceum is a Gram-negative bacterium that infects humans and animals with fatal sepsis. The infection with C. violaceum is rare in case of those who are healthy, but once established, C. violaceum causes sever disease accompanied by abscess formation in the lungs, liver and spleen. Furthermore, C. violaceum is resistant to a broad range of antibiotics, which in some cases renders the antimicrobial therapy for this infection difficult. Thus, the infection with C. violaceum displays high mortality rates unless initial proper antimicrobial therapy. In contrast, the infection mechanism had completely remained unknown. To this end, we have tried to identify virulence factors-associated with C. violaceum infection. Two distinct type III secretion systems (TTSSs) were thought to be one of the most important virulence factors, which are encoded by Chromobacterium pathogenicity island 1/1a and 2 (Cpi-1/-1a and -2) respectively. Our results have shown that Cpi-1/-1a-encoded TTSS, but not Cpi-2, is indispensable for the virulence in a mouse infection model. C. violaceum caused fulminant hepatitis in a Cpi-1/-1a-encoded TTSS-dependent manner. We next have identified 16 novel effectors secreted from Cpi-1/-1a-encoded TTS machinery. From these effectors, we found that CopE (Chromobacterium outer protein E) has similarities to a guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) for Rho GTPases. CopE acts as GEF for Rac1 and Cdc42, leading to induction of actin cytoskeletal rearrangement. Interestingly, C. violaceum invades cultured human epithelial cells in a CopE-dependent manner. Finally, an inactivation of CopE by disruption of copE gene or amino acid point mutation leading to loss of GEF activity attenuates significantly the mouse virulence of C. violaceum. These results suggest that Cpi-1/-1a-encoded TTSS is a major virulence determinant for C. violaceum infection, and that CopE contributes to the virulence in part of this pathogen.

Combined chirp coded tissue harmonic and fundamental ultrasound imaging for intravascular ultrasound: 20–60 MHz phantom and ex vivo results

PubMed Central

Park, Jinhyoung; Li, Xiang; Zhou, Qifa; Shung, K. Kirk

2013-01-01

The application of chirp coded excitation to pulse inversion tissue harmonic imaging can increase signal to noise ratio. On the other hand, the elevation of range side lobe level, caused by leakages of the fundamental signal, has been problematic in mechanical scanners which are still the most prevalent in high frequency intravascular ultrasound imaging. Fundamental chirp coded excitation imaging can achieve range side lobe levels lower than –60 dB with Hanning window, but it yields higher side lobes level than pulse inversion chirp coded tissue harmonic imaging (PI-CTHI). Therefore, in this paper a combined pulse inversion chirp coded tissue harmonic and fundamental imaging mode (CPI-CTHI) is proposed to retain the advantages of both chirp coded harmonic and fundamental imaging modes by demonstrating 20–60 MHz phantom and ex vivo results. A simulation study shows that the range side lobe level of CPI-CTHI is 16 dB lower than PI-CTHI, assuming that the transducer translates incident positions by 50 μm when two beamlines of pulse inversion pair are acquired. CPI-CTHI is implemented for a proto-typed intravascular ultrasound scanner capable of combined data acquisition in real-time. A wire phantom study shows that CPI-CTHI has a 12 dB lower range side lobe level and a 7 dB higher echo signal to noise ratio than PI-CTHI, while the lateral resolution and side lobe level are 50 μm finer and –3 dB less than fundamental chirp coded excitation imaging respectively. Ex vivo scanning of a rabbit trachea demonstrates that CPI-CTHI is capable of visualizing blood vessels as small as 200 μm in diameter with 6 dB better tissue contrast than either PI-CTHI or fundamental chirp coded excitation imaging. These results clearly indicate that CPI-CTHI may enhance tissue contrast with less range side lobe level than PI-CTHI. PMID:22871273

Rural-Urban Differences in Consumer Governance at Community Health Centers

PubMed Central

Wright, David Bradley

2017-01-01

Context Community health centers (CHCs) are primary care clinics that serve mostly low-income patients in rural and urban areas. They are required to be governed by a consumer majority. What little is known about the structure and function of these boards in practice, suggests that CHC boards in rural areas may look and act differently than CHC boards in urban areas. Purpose To identify differences in the structure and function of consumer governance at CHCs in rural and urban areas. Methods Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with 30 CHC board members from 14 different states. Questions focused on board members’ perceptions of board composition and the role of consumers on the board. Findings CHCs in rural areas are more likely to have representative boards, are better able to convey confidence in the organization, and are better able to assess community needs than CHCs in urban areas. However, CHCs in rural areas often have problems achieving objective decision-making, and may have fewer means for objectively evaluating quality of care due to the lack of patient board member anonymity. Conclusions Consumer governance is implemented differently in rural and urban communities, and the advantages and disadvantages in each setting are unique. PMID:23551642

Indentifying environmental features for land management decisions. [Uinta Basin, Davis County foothills, and Farmington Bay in Utah

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1980-01-01

The wetlands and water-related land use in the Uinta Basin were classified and mapped using photointerpretation of U-2 infrared photography and digital LANDSAT data. The digital maps were used to augment photointerpretations. A highly effective diagnostic tool emerged when the LANDSAT digital print was photoreduced to a film positive at the same scale as the U-2 film and overlain on the U-2 color film. As a result of this merging technique, cover types can be identified more accurately and probablistic statements can be made about the relative amounts of water being consumed in one pasture vs. another. The hazards to urban development on sensitive and unstable land in the foothills of Davis County were studied using NASA U-2 photography. Shoreline fluctuations were mapped in the Farmington Bay using LANDSAT digital data.

Lightweight Electronic Camera for Research on Clouds

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lawson, Paul

2006-01-01

"Micro-CPI" (wherein "CPI" signifies "cloud-particle imager") is the name of a small, lightweight electronic camera that has been proposed for use in research on clouds. It would acquire and digitize high-resolution (3- m-pixel) images of ice particles and water drops at a rate up to 1,000 particles (and/or drops) per second.

78 FR 24336 - Rules of Practice and Procedure; Adjusting Civil Money Penalties for Inflation

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-04-25

... courts. \\4\\ The CPI is published by the Department of Labor, Bureau of Statistics, and is available at.... Mathematical Calculation In general, the adjustment calculation required by the Inflation Adjustment Act is... adjusted in 2009. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the CPI for June 1996 and June 2009 was 156...

Comparing Child Protective Investigation Performance between Law Enforcement Agencies and Child Welfare Agencies

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jordan, Neil; Yampolskaya, Svetlana; Gustafson, Mara; Armstrong, Mary; McNeish, Roxann; Vargo, Amy

2011-01-01

This study examines the comparative effectiveness of using law enforcement agencies for child protective investigation (CPI), in contrast with the traditional approach of CPI conducted by the public child welfare agency. The analysis uses 2006-2007 data from a natural experiment conducted in Florida to show modest differences in performance and…

NOx control techniques for the CPI

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

Lambert, D.; McGowan, T.F.

1996-06-01

After years of air pollution control innovation, the control of emissions of nitrogen oxide compounds stands out as an area where much work remains to be performed in the chemical process industries (CPI). Federal regulations, ozone non-attainment areas, acid rain provisions of the US Clean Air Act, and corporate goals for emission reductions are all motivators. Primary CPI sources are high-temperature combustion systems, including fired heaters, boilers and Kilns. Nitrogen-based processes such as nitric acid manufacture also contribute. The paper discusses the regulations which define the problem and some solutions. These include fuel switching, low-excess air burners, fluegas recirculation, stagedmore » combustion, out of service burners, and wet scrubbing of flue gas. The paper briefly discusses costs of these options.« less

Consumer perceptions of the sale of tobacco products in pharmacies and grocery stores among U.S. adults.

PubMed

Patwardhan, Pallavi; McMillen, Robert; Winickoff, Jonathan P

2013-07-09

Pharmacy-based tobacco sales are a rapidly increasing segment of the U.S. retail tobacco market. Growing evidence links easy access to tobacco retail outlets such as pharmacies to increased tobacco use. This mixed-mode survey was the first to employ a nationally representative sample of consumers (n = 3057) to explore their opinions on sale of tobacco products in pharmacies and grocery stores. The majority reported that sale of tobacco products should be either 'allowed if products hidden from view' (29.9%, 25.6%) or 'not allowed at all' (24.0%, 31.3%) in grocery stores and pharmacies, respectively. Significantly fewer smokers, compared to non-smokers, reported agreement on point-of-sale restrictions on sales of tobacco products (grocery stores: 27.1% vs. 59.6%, p < .01; pharmacy: 32.8% vs. 62.0%, p < .01). Opinions also varied significantly by demographic characteristics and factors such as presence of a child in the household and urban/rural location of residence. Overall, a majority of consumers surveyed either supported banning sales of tobacco in grocery stores and pharmacies or allowing sales only if the products are hidden from direct view. Both policy changes would represent a departure from the status quo. Consistent with the views of practicing pharmacists and professional pharmacy organizations, consumers are also largely supportive of more restrictive policies.

Consumer perceptions of the sale of tobacco products in pharmacies and grocery stores among U.S. adults

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Pharmacy-based tobacco sales are a rapidly increasing segment of the U.S. retail tobacco market. Growing evidence links easy access to tobacco retail outlets such as pharmacies to increased tobacco use. This mixed-mode survey was the first to employ a nationally representative sample of consumers (n = 3057) to explore their opinions on sale of tobacco products in pharmacies and grocery stores. Results The majority reported that sale of tobacco products should be either ‘allowed if products hidden from view’ (29.9%, 25.6%) or ‘not allowed at all’ (24.0%, 31.3%) in grocery stores and pharmacies, respectively. Significantly fewer smokers, compared to non-smokers, reported agreement on point-of-sale restrictions on sales of tobacco products (grocery stores: 27.1% vs. 59.6%, p < .01; pharmacy: 32.8% vs. 62.0%, p < .01). Opinions also varied significantly by demographic characteristics and factors such as presence of a child in the household and urban/rural location of residence. Conclusions Overall, a majority of consumers surveyed either supported banning sales of tobacco in grocery stores and pharmacies or allowing sales only if the products are hidden from direct view. Both policy changes would represent a departure from the status quo. Consistent with the views of practicing pharmacists and professional pharmacy organizations, consumers are also largely supportive of more restrictive policies. PMID:23837647

The Urban Consumer Education Project. Interim Report, 1979-80.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Marshall, Gail; Haas, Kay

This interim evaluation report of the St. Louis, Missouri Urban Consumer Education Project assesses program effectiveness in terms of teacher training and teacher knowledge of consumer basics, community resource participation, and student and teacher knowledge. The project was designed to teach fifth grade students their rights and…

Extended nonlinear feedback model for describing episodes of high inflation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Szybisz, Martín A.; Szybisz, Leszek

2017-01-01

An extension of the nonlinear feedback (NLF) formalism to describe regimes of hyper- and high-inflation in economy is proposed in the present work. In the NLF model the consumer price index (CPI) exhibits a finite time singularity of the type 1 /(tc - t) (1 - β) / β, with β > 0, predicting a blow up of the economy at a critical time tc. However, this model fails in determining tc in the case of weak hyperinflation regimes like, e.g., that occurred in Israel. To overcome this trouble, the NLF model is extended by introducing a parameter γ, which multiplies all terms with past growth rate index (GRI). In this novel approach the solution for CPI is also analytic being proportional to the Gaussian hypergeometric function 2F1(1 / β , 1 / β , 1 + 1 / β ; z) , where z is a function of β, γ, and tc. For z → 1 this hypergeometric function diverges leading to a finite time singularity, from which a value of tc can be determined. This singularity is also present in GRI. It is shown that the interplay between parameters β and γ may produce phenomena of multiple equilibria. An analysis of the severe hyperinflation occurred in Hungary proves that the novel model is robust. When this model is used for examining data of Israel a reasonable tc is got. High-inflation regimes in Mexico and Iceland, which exhibit weaker inflations than that of Israel, are also successfully described.

Selling blood and gametes during tough economic times: insights from Google search.

PubMed

Wu, Jonathan A; Ngo, Tin C; Rothman, Cappy; Breyer, Benjamin N; Eisenberg, Michael L

2015-10-01

To use Google Insights search volume and publicly available economic indicators to test the hypothesis that sperm, egg, and blood donations increase during economic downturns and to demonstrate the feasibility of using Google search volume data to predict national trends in actual sperm, egg, and blood donations rates. Cross-correlation statistical analysis comparing Google search data for terms relating to blood, egg, and sperm donations with various economic indicators including the S&P 500 closing values, gross domestic product (GDP), the U.S. Index of Leading Indicators (U.S. Leading Index), gross savings rate, mortgage interest rates, unemployment rate, and consumer price index (CPI) from 2004-2011. A secondary analysis determined the Pearson correlation coefficient between Google search data with actual sperm, egg, and blood donation volume in the U.S. as measured by California Cryobank, the National Assisted Reproductive Technology Surveillance System, and the National Blood Collection and Utilization Survey, respectively. Significance of cross-correlation and Pearson correlation analysis as indicated by p value. There were several highly significant cross-correlation relationships between search volume and various economic indicators. Correlation between Google search volume for the term 'sperm donation,' 'egg donation,' and 'blood donation' with actual number of sperm, egg and blood donations in the United States demonstrated Pearson correlation coefficients of 0.2 (p > 0.10), -0.1 (p > 0.10), and 0.07 (p > 0.10), respectively. Temporal analysis showed an improved correlation coefficient of 0.9 (p < 0.05) for blood donation when shifted 12 months later relative to Google search volume. Google search volume data for search terms relating to sperm, egg, and blood donation increase during economic downturns. This finding suggests gamete and bodily fluid donations are influenced by market forces like other commodities. Google search may be useful for predicting blood donation trends but is more limited in predicting actual semen and oocyte donation patterns.

Outpatient Pain Predicts Subsequent One-Year Acute Health Care Utilization Among Adults With Sickle Cell Disease

PubMed Central

Ezenwa, Miriam O.; Molokie, Robert E.; Wang, Zaijie Jim; Yao, Yingwei; Suarez, Marie L.; Angulo, Veronica; Wilkie, Diana J.

2014-01-01

Context Patient demographic and clinical factors have known associations with acute health care utilization (AHCU) among patients with sickle cell disease (SCD), but it is unknown if pain measured predominantly in an outpatient setting is a predictor of future AHCU in patients with SCD. Objectives To determine whether multidimensional pain scores obtained predominantly in an outpatient setting predicted subsequent one-year AHCU by 137 adults with SCD and whether the pain measured at a second visit also predicted AHCU. Methods Pain data included the Composite Pain Index (CPI), a single score representative of a multidimensional pain experience (number of pain sites, intensity, quality, and pattern). Based on the distribution of AHCU events, we divided patients into three groups: (1) zero events (Zero), (2) 1–3 events (Low), or (3) 4–23 events (High). Results The initial CPI scores differed significantly by the three groups (F(2,134)=7.38, P=0.001). Post hoc comparisons showed that the Zero group had lower CPI scores than both the Low group (P<0.01) and the High group (P<0.001). In multiviariate, overdispersed Poisson regression analyses, age, and CPI scores (at both measurement times) were statistically significant predictors of utilization events. Pain intensity scores at both measurement times were significant predictors of utilization, but other pain scores (number of pain sites, quality, and pattern) were not. Conclusion Findings support use of outpatient CPI scores or pain intensity and age to identify at-risk young adults with SCD who are likely to benefit from improved outpatient pain management plans. PMID:24636960

The Chromobacterium violaceum type III effector CopE, a guanine nucleotide exchange factor for Rac1 and Cdc42, is involved in bacterial invasion of epithelial cells and pathogenesis.

PubMed

Miki, Tsuyoshi; Akiba, Kinari; Iguchi, Mirei; Danbara, Hirofumi; Okada, Nobuhiko

2011-06-01

The type III secretion system (T3SS) encoded by Chromobacterium pathogenicity islands 1 and 1a (Cpi-1/-1a) is critical for Chromobacterium violaceum pathogenesis. T3SS-dependent virulence is commonly characterized by type III effector virulence function, but the full repertoire of the effector proteins of Cpi-1/-1a T3SS is unknown. In this study, we showed that expression of Cpi-1/-1a T3SS is controlled by the master regulator CilA. We used transcriptional profiling with DNA microarrays to define CilA regulon and identified genes encoding T3SS effectors whose translocation into host cells was dependent on Cpi-1/-1a T3SS. From these effectors, we found that CopE (CV0296) has similarities to a guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) for Rho GTPases in its C-terminal portion. The N-terminal portions (1-81 amino acids) of CopE and a CivB as a putative chaperone were required for its translocation. CopE specifically activates Rac1 and Cdc42 followed by the induction of actin cytoskeletal rearrangement. Interestingly, C. violaceum invades human epithelial HeLa cells in a Cpi-1/-1a-encoded T3SS- and CopE-dependent manner. Finally, C. violaceum strains lacking copE and expressing a CopE-G168V deficient in GEF activity were attenuated for virulence in mice, suggesting that CopE contributes to the virulence of this pathogen. © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Added prognostic value of ischaemic threshold in radionuclide myocardial perfusion imaging: a common-sense integration of exercise tolerance and ischaemia severity.

PubMed

Marini, Cecilia; Acampa, Wanda; Bauckneht, Matteo; Daniele, Stefania; Capitanio, Selene; Cantoni, Valeria; Fiz, Francesco; Zampella, Emilia; Dib, Bassam; Assante, Roberta; Bruzzi, Paolo; Sambuceti, Gianmario; Cuocolo, Alberto

2015-04-01

Reversible ischaemia at radionuclide myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) accurately predicts risk of cardiac death and nonfatal myocardial infarction (major adverse cardiac events, MACE). This prognostic penetrance might be empowered by accounting for exercise tolerance as an indirect index of ischaemia severity. The present study aimed to verify this hypothesis integrating imaging assessment of ischaemia severity with exercise maximal rate pressure product (RPP) in a large cohort of patients with suspected or known coronary artery disease (CAD). We analysed 1,502 consecutive patients (1,014 men aged 59 ± 10 years) submitted to exercise stress/rest MPI. To account for exercise tolerance, the summed difference score (SDS) was divided by RPP at tracer injection providing a clinical prognostic index (CPI). Reversible ischaemia was documented in 357 patients (24 %) and was classified by SDS as mild (SDS 2-4) in 180, moderate (SDS 5-7) in 118 and severe (SDS >7) in 59. CPI values of ischaemic patients were clustered into tertiles with lowest and highest values indicating low and high risk, respectively. CPI modified SDS risk prediction in 119/357 (33 %) patients. During a 60-month follow-up, MACE occurred in 68 patients. Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that CPI significantly improved predictive power for MACE incidence with respect to SDS alone. Multivariate Cox analysis confirmed the additive independent value of CPI-derived information. Integration of ischaemic threshold and ischaemia extension and severity can improve accuracy of exercise MPI in predicting long-term outcome in a large cohort of patients with suspected or known CAD.

Coastal change-potential assessment of Sleeping Bear Dunes, Indiana Dunes, and Apostle Islands National Lakeshores to lake-level changes

USGS Publications Warehouse

Pendleton, Elizabeth A.; Thieler, E. Robert; Williams, S. Jeffress

2007-01-01

A change-potential index (CPI) was used to map the susceptibility of the shoreline to future lake-level change within Apostle Islands, Indiana Dunes, and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshores (NL) along Lake Superior and Lake Michigan. The CPI in the Great Lakes setting ranks the following in terms of their physical contribution to lake-level related coastal change: geomorphology, regional coastal slope, rate and direction (i.e., rise and fall) of relative lake-level change, historical shoreline change rates, annual ice cover and mean significant wave height. The rankings for each input variable were combined, and an index value calculated for 1-minute bins covering the parks. The CPI highlights those regions where the physical effects of lake-level and coastal change might be the greatest. This approach combines the coastal system's potential for change with its natural ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions, yielding a quantitative, although relative, measure of the parks' natural susceptibility to the effects of lake-level variation. The CPI provides an objective technique for evaluation and long-term planning by scientists and park managers. The CPI is applied to the National Lakeshores of Apostle Islands, Indiana Dunes, and Sleeping Bear Dunes to test this methodology in lake settings. The National Lakeshores in this study consist of sand and gravel beaches, rock outcrops, and dune and glacial bluffs. The areas within these Great Lakes parks that are likely to experience the most lake-level-related coastal change are areas of unconsolidated sediment where regional coastal slope is low and wave energy is high.

Improving Classroom Engagement among High School Students with Disruptive Behavior: Evaluation of the Class Pass Intervention

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Collins, Tai A.; Cook, Clayton R.; Dart, Evan H.; Socie, Diana G.; Renshaw, Tyler L.; Long, Anna C.

2016-01-01

Off-task and disruptive classroom behaviors have a negative impact on the learning environment and present a unique challenge for teachers to address. The aim of this study was to evaluate the Class Pass Intervention (CPI) as a behavior management strategy for secondary students with disruptive classroom behavior. The CPI consists of providing…

Effects of canola proteins and hydrolysates on adipogenic differentiation of C3H10T/2 mesenchymal stem cells.

PubMed

Alashi, Adeola M; Blanchard, Christopher L; Mailer, Rodney J; Agboola, Samson O; Mawson, A John; Aluko, Rotimi E; Strappe, Padraig

2015-10-15

This study assessed the ability of canola protein isolate (CPI) and enzymatic hydrolysates (CPHs) to inhibit adipogenic differentiation of C3H10T1/2 murine mesenchymal stem cells in vitro. Cell viability was maintained at concentrations of 60 μg/ml of sample. Cells treated with Alcalase hydrolysate demonstrated a higher reduction in anti-adipogenic differentiation through quantitation by oil-red O staining. qPCR analysis showed that CPI and CPH-treated cells significantly inhibited PPARγ expression, a key transcription factor involved in adipocyte differentiation, as evident in an ∼ 60-80% fold reduction of PPARγ mRNA. Immunofluorescence staining for PPARγ protein also showed a reduced expression in some treated cells when compared to differentiated untreated cells. The 50% inhibition concentration (IC50) of CPI, CPHs and their membrane ultrafiltration fractions on pancreatic lipase (PL) activity ranged between 0.75 and 2.5 mg/ml, (p < 0.05) for the hydrolysed and unhydrolysed samples. These findings demonstrate that CPI and CPHs contain bioactive components which can modulate in vitro adipocyte differentiation. Crown Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

24 CFR 3280.3 - Manufactured home procedural and enforcement regulations and consumer manual requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 5 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Manufactured home procedural and enforcement regulations and consumer manual requirements. 3280.3 Section 3280.3 Housing and Urban Development... consumer manual requirements. A manufacturer must comply with the requirements of this part 3280, part 3282...

Novel Diffusivity Measurement Technique

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rashidnia, Nasser

2001-01-01

A common-path interferometer (CPI) system was developed to measure the diffusivity of liquid pairs. The CPI is an optical technique that can be used to measure changes in the gradient of the refraction index of transparent materials. This system uses a shearing interferometer that shares the same optical path from a laser light source to the final imaging plane. Hence, the molecular diffusion coefficient of liquids can be determined using the physical relations between changes in the optical path length and the liquid phase properties. The data obtained with this interferometer were compared with similar results from other techniques and demonstrated that the instrument is superior in measuring the diffusivity of miscible liquids while keeping the system very compact and robust. CPI can also be used for studies in interface dynamics and other diffusion-dominated-process applications.

Periodontal status and selected parameters of oral condition of Poles aged 65 to 74 years.

PubMed

Konopka, Tomasz; Dembowska, Elżbieta; Pietruska, Małgorzata; Dymalski, Paweł; Górska, Renata

2015-01-01

The goal of this study was the evaluation of the periodontal health by means of CPI score in inhabitants of big and small cities in the age range from 65 to 74 and making comparison with previous Polish and European studies from XXI century. Also an average number of natural teeth, the edentulous persons percentage, the percentage of people with oral function maintenance and prevalence of oral mucosal diseases were evaluated. There were also attempts to evaluate essential behaviours related to the oral health and the percentage of people that are treated with use of non-reimbursed or reimbursed services. Studies were conducted in 5 big cities: Warszawa, Szczecin, Wrocław, Białystok and Toruń, as well as in 4 towns, such as Oława, Police, Łobez and Ełk. From sampling 7400 people aged from 65 to 74 years for the study reported only 807 people. In the mouth evaluated CPI score, number of natural teeth and prevalence of pathological lesions on cavity mucosa. Answers for questions on selected attitudes and health-seeking behaviours related to the oral health and the range of dental treatment were also analysed. Distribution of values of CPI codes in the whole group was as follows: CPI0-1.2%, CPI1-9.4%, CPI2-16.6%, CPI3-21.8%, CPI4-19.7% and the number of people excluded from examinations (1 tooth in the sextant or edentulous 31.3%). The state of the periodontium was worse in big cities and in men. An average number of teeth was 13.7 and was higher in big cities and in men. The percentage of edentulous persons was 28.9% and was higher in towns and in woman. The percentage of people with oral function maintenance was 25.15% and was higher in big cities and in men. The most three common pathologies of the oral cavity were leukoplakia and leukokeratosis that were found in 10.5% of examined people, candidiasis 5.82% and lichen planus 2.2%. The state of the periodontium of Poles at the age from 65 to 74 has not been improved in XXI century, but also does not significantly differ from an average European level. An average number of remaining teeth of Poles at this age has increased, but remains under a European average; also the prevalence of edentulism has decreased, but still remains one of the highest in Europe. The percentage of people with oral function maintenance is very low, thus needs for prosthetic treatment and rehabilitation of masticatory ability remain high. Precancerous lesions in the oral cavity are quite common in this age group. Health-seeking behaviours related to the oral health of older Poles are inadequate and result from a low level of knowledge on dental prophylaxis.

Oral Health, Obesity Status and Nutritional Habits in Turkish Children and Adolescents: An Epidemiological Study.

PubMed

Kesim, Servet; Çiçek, Betül; Aral, Cüneyt Asım; Öztürk, Ahmet; Mazıcıoğlu, Mümtaz Mustafa; Kurtoğlu, Selim

2016-03-01

Studies evaluating the relationship between oral health status and obesity have provided conflicting data. Therefore, there is a great need to investigate and clarify the possible connection in a comprehensive sample. To assess the relationship of obesity and oral health status among children and adolescents aged 6 to 17 years-old. Cross-sectional study. Data were obtained from 4,534 children and adolescents (2,018 boys and 2,516 girls). Questionnaires were sent home prior to examination; afterwards, anthropometric and dental data were collected from participants. Community Periodontal Index (CPI) and number of decayed, missing, and filled teeth in the permanent dentition (DMFT), and deciduous dentition (dmft) index were used to measure oral health status. Height, body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and body fat percentage were analyzed. For DMFT scores, healthy (score=0) girls and boys had significantly higher BMI and WC values than unhealthy (score>1) girls and boys (p<0.05). Healthy girls had higher fat percentage values than unhealthy girls (p<0.05). In terms of CPI scores, healthy boys had lower BMI and WC values than unhealthy boys (p<0.05). According to multiple binary logistic regression results for model 1, BMI predicted DMFT scores in both genders but CPI scores only in boys. No beverage consumption predicted DMFT scores in boys, while milk consumption predicted DMFT scores in girls. No meal skipping predicted CPI scores in boys. For model 2, WC predicted DMFT scores in both genders and CPI scores only in boys. Milk consumption predicted DMFT scores only in girls. No meal skipping predicted CPI scores for both gender (p<0.05). According to DMFT, there were significant differences between the frequencies of the BMI groups (normal weight, overweight and obese) at the age of 7 (girls only), 9, 10, and 16 (boys only) years and overall (only girls) (p<0.05). According to CPI, significant differences between the frequencies of the BMI groups at the age of 16 (boys only) and 17 (girls only) were seen (p<0.05). Periodontal and dental status appears to correlate with nutritional habits and obesity. Obesity and dental/periodontal diseases are multifactorial diseases that follow similar risk patterns and develop from an interaction between chronic conditions originating early in life. It is important for all health professionals to educate patients at risk about the progression of periodontal and dental diseases and the importance of proper oral hygiene.

Choice of Personal Assistance Services Providers by Medicare Beneficiaries Using a Consumer-Directed Benefit: Rural-Urban Differences

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Meng, Hongdao; Friedman, Bruce; Wamsley, Brenda R.; Van Nostrand, Joan F.; Eggert, Gerald M.

2010-01-01

Purpose: To examine the impact of an experimental consumer-choice voucher benefit on the selection of independent and agency personal assistance services (PAS) providers among rural and urban Medicare beneficiaries with disabilities. Methods: The Medicare Primary and Consumer-Directed Care Demonstration enrolled 1,605 Medicare beneficiaries in 19…

Evaluation of the Class Pass Intervention for Typically Developing Students with Hypothesized Escape-Motivated Disruptive Classroom Behavior

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cook, Clayton R.; Collins, Tai; Dart, Evan; Vance, Michael J.; McIntosh, Kent; Grady, Erin A.; DeCano, Policarpio

2014-01-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the Class Pass Intervention (CPI) as a secondary intervention for typically developing students with escape-motivated disruptive classroom behavior. The CPI consists of providing students with passes that they can use to appropriately request a break from an academic task to engage in a preferred activity for…

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

Kumaran, D.; Adler, M.; Levit, M.

The seven antigenically distinct serotypes (A to G) of botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) are responsible for the deadly disease botulism. BoNT serotype A (BoNT/A) exerts its lethal action by cleaving the SNARE protein SNAP-25, leading to inhibition of neurotransmitter release, flaccid paralysis and autonomic dysfunction. BoNTs are dichain proteins: the heavy chain is responsible for neurospecific binding, internalization and translocation, and the light chain is responsible for substrate cleavage. Because of their extreme toxicity and prior history of weaponization, the BoNTs are considered to be potential bioterrorism agents. No post-symptomatic therapeutic interventions are available for BoNT intoxication other than critical care;more » therefore it is imperative to develop specific antidotes against this neurotoxin. To this end, a cyclic peptide inhibitor (CPI-1) was synthesized and found to inhibit BoNT/A light chain (Balc) with high affinity. When tested in a cell-free Förster resonance excitation transfer (FRET) assay, CPI-1 was found to have a K i of 13.9 nM using full-length Balc448 and 42.1 nM using a truncated crystallizable form of light chain (Balc424). Co-crystallization of CPI-1 with Balc424 revealed that in the Balc-CPI-1 complex, the inhibitor adopts a helical conformation, occupies a high percentage of the active site cavity and interacts in an amphipathic manner with critical active site residues. The data suggest that CPI-1 prevents SNAP-25 from accessing the Balc active site by blocking both the substrate binding path at the surface and the Zn 2+ binding region involved in catalysis. This is in contrast to linear peptide inhibitors described to date which block only the latter« less

Impact of a cell phone intervention on mediating mechanisms of smoking cessation in individuals living with HIV/AIDS.

PubMed

Vidrine, Damon J; Arduino, Roberto C; Gritz, Ellen R

2006-12-01

Mounting evidence suggests that smokers living with HIV/AIDS have a significantly increased risk of numerous adverse health outcomes (both AIDS- and non-AIDS-related) compared with HIV-positive nonsmokers. Therefore, efforts to design and implement effective cessation programs for this ever-growing special population are warranted. The present study assessed the effects of a cell phone intervention (CPI) on hypothesized mediators (i.e., changes in depression, anxiety, social support, and self-efficacy) demonstrated to influence cessation outcomes in other populations. Ninety-five participants from an inner-city AIDS clinic were randomized to receive either the CPI or recommended standard of care (RSOC) smoking cessation treatment. Participants randomized to the RSOC group (n=47) received brief advice to quit, a 10-week supply of nicotine patches, and self-help materials. Participants randomized to the CPI group (n=48) received RSOC components plus a series of eight proactive counseling sessions delivered via cell phones. A series of regression analyses (linear and logistic) was used to assess the relationships between treatment group, the hypothesized mediators, and biochemically confirmed smoking cessation outcomes. Results indicated that the CPI group experienced greater reductions in anxiety and depression, and increases in self-efficacy compared with the RSOC group. Further, changes in depression, anxiety, and self-efficacy weakened the association between treatment group and cessation outcome. The mediator hypothesis, however, for social support was rejected, as the difference score was not significantly associated with treatment group. These results suggest that the efficacy of the CPI is at least partially mediated by its ability to decrease symptoms of distress while increasing self-efficacy.

The Preoperative Composite Physiologic Index May Predict Mortality in Lung Cancer Patients with Combined Pulmonary Fibrosis and Emphysema.

PubMed

Ueno, Fumika; Kitaguchi, Yoshiaki; Shiina, Takayuki; Asaka, Shiho; Miura, Kentaro; Yasuo, Masanori; Wada, Yosuke; Yoshizawa, Akihiko; Hanaoka, Masayuki

2017-01-01

It remains unclear whether the preoperative pulmonary function parameters and prognostic indices that are indicative of nutritional and immunological status are associated with prognosis in lung cancer patients with combined pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema (CPFE) who have undergone surgery. The aim of this study is to identify prognostic determinants in these patients. The medical records of all patients with lung cancer associated with CPFE who had undergone surgery at Shinshu University Hospital were retrospectively reviewed to obtain clinical data, including the results of preoperative pulmonary function tests and laboratory examinations, chest high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT), and survival. Univariate Cox proportional hazards regression analysis showed that a high pathological stage of the lung cancer, a higher preoperative serum carcinoembryonic antigen level, and a higher preoperative composite physiologic index (CPI) were associated with a high risk of death. Multivariate analysis showed that a high pathological stage of the lung cancer (HR: 1.579; p = 0.0305) and a higher preoperative CPI (HR: 1.034; p = 0.0174) were independently associated with a high risk of death. In contrast, the severity of fibrosis or emphysema on chest HRCT, the individual pulmonary function parameters, the prognostic nutritional index, the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, and the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio were not associated with prognosis. In the Kaplan-Meier analysis, the log-rank test showed significant differences in survival between the high-CPI and the low-CPI group (p = 0.0234). The preoperative CPI may predict mortality and provide more powerful prognostic information than individual pulmonary function parameters in lung cancer patients with CPFE who have undergone surgery. © 2017 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Interactions of a potent cyclic peptide inhibitor with the light chain of botulinum neurotoxin A: insights from x-ray crystallography

DOE PAGES

Kumaran, D.; Adler, M.; Levit, M.; ...

2015-10-17

The seven antigenically distinct serotypes (A to G) of botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) are responsible for the deadly disease botulism. BoNT serotype A (BoNT/A) exerts its lethal action by cleaving the SNARE protein SNAP-25, leading to inhibition of neurotransmitter release, flaccid paralysis and autonomic dysfunction. BoNTs are dichain proteins: the heavy chain is responsible for neurospecific binding, internalization and translocation, and the light chain is responsible for substrate cleavage. Because of their extreme toxicity and prior history of weaponization, the BoNTs are considered to be potential bioterrorism agents. No post-symptomatic therapeutic interventions are available for BoNT intoxication other than critical care;more » therefore it is imperative to develop specific antidotes against this neurotoxin. To this end, a cyclic peptide inhibitor (CPI-1) was synthesized and found to inhibit BoNT/A light chain (Balc) with high affinity. When tested in a cell-free Förster resonance excitation transfer (FRET) assay, CPI-1 was found to have a K i of 13.9 nM using full-length Balc448 and 42.1 nM using a truncated crystallizable form of light chain (Balc424). Co-crystallization of CPI-1 with Balc424 revealed that in the Balc-CPI-1 complex, the inhibitor adopts a helical conformation, occupies a high percentage of the active site cavity and interacts in an amphipathic manner with critical active site residues. The data suggest that CPI-1 prevents SNAP-25 from accessing the Balc active site by blocking both the substrate binding path at the surface and the Zn 2+ binding region involved in catalysis. This is in contrast to linear peptide inhibitors described to date which block only the latter« less

Is there an occupational status gradient in the development of periodontal disease in Japanese workers? A 5-year prospective cohort study.

PubMed

Irie, Koichiro; Yamazaki, Toru; Yoshii, Saori; Takeyama, Hideo; Shimazaki, Yoshihiro

2017-02-01

Development of periodontal disease (PD) may be affected by socioeconomic status. This study examined the relationship between occupational status and PD in a 5-year prospective cohort of Japanese workers. In total, 19,633 participants had initial examinations at the Aichi Health Promotion Foundation, of whom 8210 participants aged 20 years or older did not have PD. Follow-up examinations were conducted for 3757 participants, accounting for 45.8% of baseline participants. Ultimately, 3390 participants were analyzed according to the criterion of job classification at baseline, which was based on the International Standard Classification of Occupations, 1987. Oral examinations were performed using the Community Periodontal Index (CPI). The CPI scores were coded as follows: healthy (score of 0); bleeding after probing (1); dental calculus (2); shallow pockets (3); and deep pockets (4). Participants with one or more sextants with a score >2 were diagnosed with PD. Poisson regression analysis was performed to adjust for age and other potential confounders. Overall, 31.6% of men and 23.8% of women had developed PD (CPI scores of 3 or 4). The adjusted relative risk (RR) for PD (CPI scores of 3 or 4) in men was not significant. On the other hand, the adjusted RRs for PD (CPI score of 4) in men were 2.52-, 2.39-, and 2.74-fold higher for skilled workers, sales persons, and drivers, respectively, than for professionals. In contrast, we found no gradient in women. We found a gradient related to the risk of developing PD according to occupational status among men in a Japanese worker population. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effects of a Randomized Comprehensive Psychosocial Intervention Based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Theory and Motivational Interviewing Techniques for Community Rehabilitation of Patients With Opioid Use Disorders in Shanghai, China.

PubMed

Zhong, Na; Yuan, Ying; Chen, Hanhui; Jiang, Haifeng; Du, Jiang; Sun, Haiming; Hao, Wei; Zhao, Min

2015-01-01

China is faced with the challenge of community rehabilitation of persons with opioid use disorders. A 1-year comprehensive psychosocial intervention (CPI) was developed, and its effectiveness was assessed in terms of its ability to improve community rehabilitation of persons with opioid use disorders after their release from detention in compulsory treatment centers in Shanghai, China. Participants were randomized to the CPI (n = 90) condition or the usual community care (UCC, n = 90) as a control condition. The Addiction Severity Index, Symptom Checklist-90, and Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form Health Survey were administered at baseline and at the end of the intervention. Urine screens were used to increase the validity of self-reported drug use. Compared with the UCC group at follow-up, the CPI group showed lower scores in 6 dimensions of the Symptom Checklist-90: somatization, obsessive-compulsive, anxiety, phobia-anxiety, paranoia, and psychoticism. Members of the CPI group had higher scores in 2 dimensions of the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey—physical role limitation and emotional role limitation—compared with the UCC group (P < 0.05). A logistic regression analysis revealed that phobia-anxiety, lifetime heroin or amphetamine use, and injection drug use were risk factors of relapse, but differences were not found in drug urine test or self-report drug use between the 2 groups (P > 0.05). The CPI condition improved participants' mental health and quality of life, and it could be a promising community rehabilitation approach for patients with opioid use disorders in recovery.

Clinical Performance and Admission Variables as Predictors of Passage of the National Physical Therapy Examination.

PubMed

Meiners, Kelly M; Rush, Douglas K

2017-01-01

Prior studies have explored variables that had predictive relationships with National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) score or NPTE failure. The purpose of this study was to explore whether certain variables were predictive of test-takers' first-time score on the NPTE. The population consisted of 134 students who graduated from the university's Professional DPT Program in 2012 to 2014. This quantitative study used a retrospective design. Two separate data analyses were conducted. First, hierarchical linear multiple regression (HMR) analysis was performed to determine which variables were predictive of first-time NPTE score. Second, a correlation analysis was performed on all 18 Physical Therapy Clinical Performance Instrument (PT CPI) 2006 category scores obtained during the first long-term clinical rotation, overall PT CPI 2006 score, and NPTE passage. With all variables entered, the HMR model predicted 39% of the variance seen in NPTE scores. The HMR results showed that physical therapy program first-year GPA (1PTGPA) was the strongest predictor and explained 24% of the variance in NPTE scores (b=0.572, p<0.001). The correlational analysis found no statistically significant correlation between the 18 PT CPI 2006 category scores, overall PT CPI 2006 score, and NPTE passage. As 1PTGPA had the most significant contribution to prediction of NPTE scores, programs need to monitor first-year students who display academic difficulty. PT CPI version 2006 scores were significantly correlated with each other, but not with NPTE score or NPTE passage. Both tools measure many of the same professional requirements but use different modes of assessment, and they may be considered complementary tools to gain a full picture of both the student's ability and skills.

Serological cross-reactions between four polyomaviruses of birds using virus-like particles expressed in yeast.

PubMed

Zielonka, Anja; Gedvilaite, Alma; Reetz, Jochen; Rösler, Uwe; Müller, Hermann; Johne, Reimar

2012-12-01

Polyomaviruses are aetiological agents of fatal acute diseases in various bird species. Genomic analysis revealed that avian polyomavirus (APyV), crow polyomavirus (CPyV), finch polyomavirus (FPyV) and goose hemorrhagic polyomavirus (GHPyV) are closely related to each other, but nevertheless form separate viral species; however, their serological relationship was previously unknown. As only APyV can be grown efficiently in tissue culture, virus-like particles (VLPs) were generated by expression of the genomic regions encoding the major structural protein VP1 of these viruses in yeast; these were used to elicit type-specific antibodies in rabbits and as antigens in serological reactions. For increased VLP assembly, a nuclear-localization signal was introduced into APyV-VP1. VLPs derived from the VP1 of the monkey polyomavirus simian virus 40 served as control. APyV-, GHPyV- and CPyV-VLPs showed haemagglutinating activity with chicken and human erythrocytes. CPyV- and GHPyV-specific sera showed slight cross-reactions in immunoblotting, haemagglutination-inhibition assay and indirect ELISA. The FPyV-specific serum inhibited the haemagglutination activity of APyV-VLPs slightly and showed a weak cross-neutralizing activity against APyV in cell-culture tests. Generally, these data indicate that the four polyomaviruses of birds are serologically distinct. However, in accordance with genetic data, a relationship between CPyV and GHPyV as well as between APyV and FPyV is evident, and grouping into two different serogroups may be suggested. The haemagglutinating activity of APyV, CPyV and GHPyV may indicate similar receptor-binding mechanisms for these viruses. Our data could be useful for the development of vaccines against the polyomavirus-induced diseases in birds and for interpretation of diagnostic test results.

Ca2+-dependent rapid Ca2+ sensitization of contraction in arterial smooth muscle.

PubMed

Dimopoulos, George J; Semba, Shingo; Kitazawa, Kazuyo; Eto, Masumi; Kitazawa, Toshio

2007-01-05

Ca(2+) ion is a universal intracellular messenger that regulates numerous biological functions. In smooth muscle, Ca(2+) with calmodulin activates myosin light chain (MLC) kinase to initiate a rapid MLC phosphorylation and contraction. To test the hypothesis that regulation of MLC phosphatase is involved in the rapid development of MLC phosphorylation and contraction during Ca(2+) transient, we compared Ca(2+) signal, MLC phosphorylation, and 2 modes of inhibition of MLC phosphatase, phosphorylation of CPI-17 Thr38 and MYPT1 Thr853, during alpha(1) agonist-induced contraction with/without various inhibitors in intact rabbit femoral artery. Phenylephrine rapidly induced CPI-17 phosphorylation from a negligible amount to a peak value of 0.38+/-0.04 mol of Pi/mol within 7 seconds following stimulation, similar to the rapid time course of Ca(2+) rise and MLC phosphorylation. This rapid CPI-17 phosphorylation was dramatically inhibited by either blocking Ca(2+) release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum or by pretreatment with protein kinase C inhibitors, suggesting an involvement of Ca(2+)-dependent protein kinase C. This was followed by a slow Ca(2+)-independent and Rho-kinase/protein kinase C-dependent phosphorylation of CPI-17. In contrast, MYPT1 phosphorylation had only a slow component that increased from 0.29+/-0.09 at rest to the peak of 0.68+/-0.14 mol of Pi/mol at 1 minute, similar to the time course of contraction. Thus, there are 2 components of the Ca(2+) sensitization through inhibition of MLC phosphatase. Our results support the hypothesis that the initial rapid Ca(2+) rise induces a rapid inhibition of MLC phosphatase coincident with the Ca(2+)-induced MLC kinase activation to synergistically initiate a rapid MLC phosphorylation and contraction in arteries with abundant CPI-17 content.

Effects of Chinese mineral strategies on the U.S. minerals industry

USGS Publications Warehouse

McCartan, L.; Menzie, W.D.; Morse, D.E.; Papp, J.F.; Plunkert, P.A.; Tse, P.-K.

2006-01-01

For more than two decades now, China has been undergoing rapid economic growth and industrialization. The industrialization and urbanization of the once rural, farming nation is leading to increased consumption of mineral commodities to build infrastructure and to make into consumer goods. This increased consumption has led to higher mineral prices, lower stocks and, in some cases, temporary shortages of minerals. Chinese mineral producers and manufacturers are responding by building capacity, restructuring and modernizing industrial sectors and establishing international network that compete with those of the United States and other nations.

The Challenges in Training of the Mechanized Infantry Units of the Republic of Korea Army in Transitioning from the Armored Personnel Carrier (K200) to Infantry Fighting Vehicle (K21)

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-12-14

Technology 2011). Because this paper mainly depends on the case study of the U.S. M2 BFV fielding, the author reviewed a wide variety of literature...defilade position. The dismounted element is also available for the military operations in urban terrain and forest enviroments , and providing...of the technological developments of the BFV, such as the blue force tracking system, it is still very important and requires much time- consuming

A generic interface between COSMIC/NASTRAN and PATRAN (R)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roschke, Paul N.; Premthamkorn, Prakit; Maxwell, James C.

1990-01-01

Despite its powerful analytical capabilities, COSMIC/NASTRAN lacks adequate post-processing adroitness. PATRAN, on the other hand is widely accepted for its graphical capabilities. A nonproprietary, public domain code mnemonically titled CPI (for COSMIC/NASTRAN-PATRAN Interface) is designed to manipulate a large number of files rapidly and efficiently between the two parent codes. In addition to PATRAN's results file preparation, CPI also prepares PATRAN's P/PLOT data files for xy plotting. The user is prompted for necessary information during an interactive session. Current implementation supports NASTRAN's displacement approach including the following rigid formats: (1) static analysis, (2) normal modal analysis, (3) direct transient response, and (4) modal transient response. A wide variety of data blocks are also supported. Error trapping is given special consideration. A sample session with CPI illustrates its simplicity and ease of use.

Simulation model for assessing the efficiency of a combined power installation based on a geothermal heat pump and a vacuum solar collector

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vaysman, Ya I.; Surkov, AA; Surkova, Yu I.; Kychkin, AV

2017-06-01

The article is devoted to the use of renewable energy sources and the assessment of the feasibility of their use in the climatic conditions of the Western Urals. A simulation model that calculates the efficiency of a combined power installations (CPI) was (RES) developed. The CPI consists of the geothermal heat pump (GHP) and the vacuum solar collector (VCS) and is based on the research model. This model allows solving a wide range of problems in the field of energy and resource efficiency, and can be applied to other objects using RES. Based on the research recommendations for optimizing the management and the application of CPI were given. The optimization system will give a positive effect in the energy and resource consumption of low-rise residential buildings projects.

GSFC specification electronic data processing magnetic recording tape

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tinari, D. F.; Perry, J. L.

1980-01-01

The design requirements are given for magnetic oxide coated, electronic data processing tape, wound on reels. Magnetic recording tape types covered by this specification are intended for use on digital tape transports using the Non-Return-to-Zero-change-on-ones (NRZI) recording method for recording densities up to and including 800 characters per inch (cpi) and the Phase-Encoding (PE) recording method for a recording density of 1600 cpi.

Periodontal status and its association with self-reported hypertension in non-medical staff in a university teaching hospital in Nigeria.

PubMed

Umeizudike, K A; Ayanbadejo, P O; Onajole, A T; Umeizudike, T I; Alade, G O

2016-03-01

A growing body of evidence suggests a relationship between periodontal disease and non-communicable systemic diseases with rising prevalence in developing countries, Nigeria inclusive. To determine the periodontal status and its association with self-reported hypertension among non-medical staff in a university teaching hospital in Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted among non-medical staff using self-administered questionnaires and periodontal clinical examination between July and August 2013. Multivariate analysis was explored to determine the independent variables associated with self-reported hypertension. P values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. A total of 276 subjects were enrolled into the study. Shallow pockets (CPI code 3) constituted the predominant periodontal disease (46.7%), calculus (CPI code 2) 46%, bleeding gingiva (CPI code 1) in 3.3% and deep pockets ≥ 6mm (CPI code 4) in 2.2%. Self-reported hypertension was the most prevalent self-reported medical condition (18.1%) and found to be associated with periodontitis, increasing age, lower education, and a positive family history of hypertension. Periodontal disease was highly prevalent in this study. Self-reported hypertension was associated with periodontitis, older age, lower education and a positive family history. Periodic periodontal examination and regular blood pressure assessment for non-medical staff is recommended.

trans-Methylpyridine cyclen versus cross-bridged trans-methylpyridine cyclen. Synthesis, acid-base and metal complexation studies (metal = Co2+, Cu2+, and Zn2+).

PubMed

Bernier, Nicolas; Costa, Judite; Delgado, Rita; Félix, Vítor; Royal, Guy; Tripier, Raphaël

2011-05-07

The synthesis of the cross-bridged cyclen CRpy(2) {4,10-bis((pyridin-2-yl)methyl)-1,4,7,10-tetraazabicyclo[5.5.2]tetradecane}, a constrained analogue of the previously described trans-methylpyridine cyclen Cpy(2) is reported. The additional ethylene bridge confers to CRpy(2) proton-sponge type behaviour which was explored by NMR and potentiometric studies. Transition metal complexes have been synthesized (by complexation of both ligands with Co(2+), Cu(2+) and Zn(2+)) and characterized in solution and in the solid state. The single crystal X-ray structures of [CoCpy(2)](2+), [CuCpy(2)](2+) and [ZnCpy(2)](2+) complexes were determined. Stability constants of the complexes, including those of the cross-bridged derivative, were determined using potentiometric titration data and the kinetic inertness of the [CuCRpy(2)](2+) complex in an acidic medium (half-life values) was evaluated by spectrophotometry. The pre-organized structure of the cross-bridged ligand imposes an additional strain for the complexation leading to complexes with smaller thermodynamic stability in comparison with the related non-bridged ligand. The electrochemical study involving cyclic voltammetry underlines the importance of the ethylene cross-bridge on the redox properties of the transition metal complexes.

Electric urban delivery trucks: energy use, greenhouse gas emissions, and cost-effectiveness.

PubMed

Lee, Dong-Yeon; Thomas, Valerie M; Brown, Marilyn A

2013-07-16

We compare electric and diesel urban delivery trucks in terms of life-cycle energy consumption, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and total cost of ownership (TCO). The relative benefits of electric trucks depend heavily on vehicle efficiency associated with drive cycle, diesel fuel price, travel demand, electric drive battery replacement and price, electricity generation and transmission efficiency, electric truck recharging infrastructure, and purchase price. For a drive cycle with frequent stops and low average speed such as the New York City Cycle (NYCC), electric trucks emit 42-61% less GHGs and consume 32-54% less energy than diesel trucks, depending upon vehicle efficiency cases. Over an array of possible conditions, the median TCO of electric trucks is 22% less than that of diesel trucks on the NYCC. For a drive cycle with less frequent stops and high average speed such as the City-Suburban Heavy Vehicle Cycle (CSHVC), electric trucks emit 19-43% less GHGs and consume 5-34% less energy, but cost 1% more than diesel counterparts. Considering current and projected U.S. regional electricity generation mixes, for the baseline case, the energy use and GHG emissions ratios of electric to diesel trucks range from 48 to 82% and 25 to 89%, respectively.

Kosovo’s Crisis: Genesis of a Problem

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-03-01

research reveal that only three of the original 89 settlements are mentioned as being Albanian. Out of the 2,166 farming homesteads and 2,666 houses in...resistance movement in Kosovo did not succeed, because the Albanians saw the CPY as pro -Slav, especially since the CPY promised only equality among all...partisan units became stronger and larger. At the same time, the Ballists collaborated with the pro -kingdom and anti- communist Serbian Chetnick

Chemical Reaction Equilibrium in Nanoporous Materials: NO Dimerization Reaction in Carbon Slit Nanopores

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-09-01

hi 0T − Tsi 0T , 10 where the molar enthalpy, hi 0T, and the molar entropy, si 0T, may be expressed as hi 0T = Hfi Tr + Tr T cpi 0...TdT , 11 si 0T = si 0Tr + Tr T cpi 0 T T dT . 12 In Eqs. 11 and 12, Hfi Tr is the enthalpy of formation of species i at the

The competitiveness versus the wealth of a country.

PubMed

Podobnik, Boris; Horvatić, Davor; Kenett, Dror Y; Stanley, H Eugene

2012-01-01

Politicians world-wide frequently promise a better life for their citizens. We find that the probability that a country will increase its per capita GDP (gdp) rank within a decade follows an exponential distribution with decay constant λ = 0.12. We use the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) and the Global Competitiveness Index (GCI) and find that the distribution of change in CPI (GCI) rank follows exponential functions with approximately the same exponent as λ, suggesting that the dynamics of gdp, CPI, and GCI may share the same origin. Using the GCI, we develop a new measure, which we call relative competitiveness, to evaluate an economy's competitiveness relative to its gdp. For all European and EU countries during the 2008-2011 economic downturn we find that the drop in gdp in more competitve countries relative to gdp was substantially smaller than in relatively less competitive countries, which is valuable information for policymakers.

The competitiveness versus the wealth of a country

PubMed Central

Podobnik, Boris; Horvatić, Davor; Kenett, Dror Y.; Stanley, H. Eugene

2012-01-01

Politicians world-wide frequently promise a better life for their citizens. We find that the probability that a country will increase its per capita GDP (gdp) rank within a decade follows an exponential distribution with decay constant λ = 0.12. We use the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) and the Global Competitiveness Index (GCI) and find that the distribution of change in CPI (GCI) rank follows exponential functions with approximately the same exponent as λ, suggesting that the dynamics of gdp, CPI, and GCI may share the same origin. Using the GCI, we develop a new measure, which we call relative competitiveness, to evaluate an economy's competitiveness relative to its gdp. For all European and EU countries during the 2008–2011 economic downturn we find that the drop in gdp in more competitve countries relative to gdp was substantially smaller than in relatively less competitive countries, which is valuable information for policymakers. PMID:22997552

The competitiveness versus the wealth of a country

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Podobnik, Boris; Horvatić, Davor; Kenett, Dror Y.; Stanley, H. Eugene

2012-09-01

Politicians world-wide frequently promise a better life for their citizens. We find that the probability that a country will increase its per capita GDP (gdp) rank within a decade follows an exponential distribution with decay constant λ = 0.12. We use the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) and the Global Competitiveness Index (GCI) and find that the distribution of change in CPI (GCI) rank follows exponential functions with approximately the same exponent as λ, suggesting that the dynamics of gdp, CPI, and GCI may share the same origin. Using the GCI, we develop a new measure, which we call relative competitiveness, to evaluate an economy's competitiveness relative to its gdp. For all European and EU countries during the 2008-2011 economic downturn we find that the drop in gdp in more competitve countries relative to gdp was substantially smaller than in relatively less competitive countries, which is valuable information for policymakers.

Application of random match probability calculations to mixed STR profiles.

PubMed

Bille, Todd; Bright, Jo-Anne; Buckleton, John

2013-03-01

Mixed DNA profiles are being encountered more frequently as laboratories analyze increasing amounts of touch evidence. If it is determined that an individual could be a possible contributor to the mixture, it is necessary to perform a statistical analysis to allow an assignment of weight to the evidence. Currently, the combined probability of inclusion (CPI) and the likelihood ratio (LR) are the most commonly used methods to perform the statistical analysis. A third method, random match probability (RMP), is available. This article compares the advantages and disadvantages of the CPI and LR methods to the RMP method. We demonstrate that although the LR method is still considered the most powerful of the binary methods, the RMP and LR methods make similar use of the observed data such as peak height, assumed number of contributors, and known contributors where the CPI calculation tends to waste information and be less informative. © 2013 American Academy of Forensic Sciences.

Demonstration of 1-year duration of immunity for attenuated Bordetella bronchiseptica vaccines in dogs.

PubMed

Lehar, Craig; Jayappa, Huchappa; Erskine, Jason; Brown, Alicia; Sweeney, Diane; Wassmoen, Terri

2008-01-01

Three groups of healthy dogs with low antibody titers to Bordetella bronchiseptica (Bb), canine parainfluenza virus (CPI), and canine adenovirus type 2 (CAV-2) were used in this study. One group was vaccinated with a single dose of monovalent attenuated Bb vaccine and one group with a trivalent vaccine containing attenuated Bb, CPI, and CAV-2; dogs were vaccinated intranasally with a single dose of the respective vaccines. The third group served as unvaccinated controls. All vaccinated dogs subsequently developed serum antibody titers to Bb that persisted for at least 1 year. Following Bb challenge 1 year after vaccination, all vaccinated dogs, regardless of group, showed significantly fewer clinical signs and shed significantly fewer challenge organisms than unvaccinated controls. These results demonstrate that intranasal administration of a single dose of monovalent attenuated Bb vaccine or trivalent vaccine containing attenuated Bb, CPI, and CAV-2 provides 1 year of protection against Bb.

Safety and tolerability of the first-in-class agent CPI-613 in combination with modified FOLFIRINOX in patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer: a single-centre, open-label, dose-escalation, phase 1 trial.

PubMed

Alistar, Angela; Morris, Bonny B; Desnoyer, Rodwige; Klepin, Heidi D; Hosseinzadeh, Keyanoosh; Clark, Clancy; Cameron, Amy; Leyendecker, John; D'Agostino, Ralph; Topaloglu, Umit; Boteju, Lakmal W; Boteju, Asela R; Shorr, Rob; Zachar, Zuzana; Bingham, Paul M; Ahmed, Tamjeed; Crane, Sandrine; Shah, Riddhishkumar; Migliano, John J; Pardee, Timothy S; Miller, Lance; Hawkins, Gregory; Jin, Guangxu; Zhang, Wei; Pasche, Boris

2017-06-01

Pancreatic cancer statistics are dismal, with a 5-year survival of less than 10%, and more than 50% of patients presenting with metastatic disease. Metabolic reprogramming is an emerging hallmark of pancreatic adenocarcinoma. CPI-613 is a novel anticancer agent that selectively targets the altered form of mitochondrial energy metabolism in tumour cells, causing changes in mitochondrial enzyme activities and redox status that lead to apoptosis, necrosis, and autophagy of tumour cells. We aimed to establish the maximum tolerated dose of CPI-613 when used in combination with modified FOLFIRINOX chemotherapy (comprising oxaliplatin, leucovorin, irinotecan, and fluorouracil) in patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer. In this single-centre, open-label, dose-escalation phase 1 trial, we recruited adult patients (aged ≥18 years) with newly diagnosed metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma from the Comprehensive Cancer Center of Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center (Winston-Salem, NC, USA). Patients had good bone marrow, liver and kidney function, and good performance status (Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group [ECOG] performance status 0-1). We studied CPI-613 in combination with modified FOLFIRINOX (oxaliplatin at 65 mg/m 2 , leucovorin at 400 mg/m 2 , irinotecan at 140 mg/m 2 , and fluorouracil 400 mg/m 2 bolus followed by 2400 mg/m 2 over 46 h). We applied a two-stage dose-escalation scheme (single patient and traditional 3+3 design). In the single-patient stage, one patient was accrued per dose level. The starting dose of CPI-613 was 500 mg/m 2 per day; the dose level was then escalated by doubling the previous dose if there were no adverse events worse than grade 2 within 4 weeks attributed as probably or definitely related to CPI-613. The traditional 3+3 dose-escalation stage was triggered if toxic effects attributed as probably or definitely related to CPI-613 were grade 2 or worse. The dose level for CPI-613 for the first cohort in the traditional dose-escalation stage was the same as that used in the last cohort of the single-patient dose-escalation stage. The primary objective was to establish the maximum tolerated dose of CPI-613 (as assessed by dose-limiting toxicities). This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01835041, and is closed to recruitment. Between April 22, 2013, and Jan 8, 2016, we enrolled 20 patients. The maximum tolerated dose of CPI-613 was 500 mg/m 2 . The median number of treatment cycles given at the maximum tolerated dose was 11 (IQR 4-19). Median follow-up of the 18 patients treated at the maximum tolerated dose was 378 days (IQR 250-602). Two patients enrolled at a higher dose of 1000 mg/m 2 , and both had a dose-limiting toxicity. Two unexpected serious adverse events occurred, both for the first patient enrolled. Expected serious adverse events were: thrombocytopenia, anaemia, and lymphopenia (all for patient number 2; anaemia and lymphopenia were dose-limiting toxicities); hyperglycaemia (in patient number 7); hypokalaemia, hypoalbuminaemia, and sepsis (patient number 11); and neutropenia (patient number 20). No deaths due to adverse events were reported. For the 18 patients given the maximum tolerated dose, the most common grade 3-4 non-haematological adverse events were hyperglycaemia (ten [55%] patients), hypokalaemia (six [33%]), peripheral sensory neuropathy (five [28%]), diarrhoea (five [28%]), and abdominal pain (four [22%]). The most common grade 3-4 haematological adverse events were neutropenia (five [28%] of 18 patients), lymphopenia (five [28%]), anaemia (four [22%], and thrombocytopenia in three [17%]). Sensory neuropathy (all grade 1-3) was recorded in 17 (94%) of the 18 patients and was managed with dose de-escalation or discontinuation per standard of care. No patients died while on active treatment; 11 study participants died, with cause of death as terminal pancreatic cancer. Of the 18 patients given the maximum tolerated dose, 11 (61%) achieved an objective (complete or partial) response. A maximum tolerated dose of CPI-613 was established at 500 mg/m 2 when used in combination with modified FOLFIRINOX in patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer. The findings of clinical activity will require validation in a phase 2 trial. Comprehensive Cancer Center of Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Choice of personal assistance services providers by medicare beneficiaries using a consumer-directed benefit: rural-urban differences.

PubMed

Meng, Hongdao; Friedman, Bruce; Wamsley, Brenda R; Van Nostrand, Joan F; Eggert, Gerald M

2010-01-01

To examine the impact of an experimental consumer-choice voucher benefit on the selection of independent and agency personal assistance services (PAS) providers among rural and urban Medicare beneficiaries with disabilities. The Medicare Primary and Consumer-Directed Care Demonstration enrolled 1,605 Medicare beneficiaries in 19 counties in New York State, West Virginia, and Ohio. A total of 839 participants were randomly assigned to receive a voucher benefit (up to $250 per month with a 20% copayment) that could be used toward PAS provided by either independent or agency workers. A bivariate probit model was used to estimate the probabilities of choosing either type of PAS provider while controlling for potential confounders. The voucher was associated with a 32.4% (P < .01) increase in the probability of choosing agency providers and a 12.5% (P= .03) increase in the likelihood of choosing independent workers. When the analysis was stratified by rural/urban status, rural voucher recipients had 36.8% higher probability of using independent workers compared to rural controls. Urban voucher recipients had 37.1% higher probability of using agency providers compared to urban controls. This study provided evidence that rural and urban Medicare beneficiaries with disabilities may have very different responses to a consumer-choice PAS voucher program. Offering a consumer-choice voucher option to rural populations holds the potential to significantly improve their access to PAS. © 2010 National Rural Health Association.

Scaling of the Urban Water Footprint: An Analysis of 65 Mid- to Large-Sized U.S. Metropolitan Areas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mahjabin, T.; Garcia, S.; Grady, C.; Mejia, A.

2017-12-01

Scaling laws have been shown to be relevant to a range of disciplines including biology, ecology, hydrology, and physics, among others. Recently, scaling was shown to be important for understanding and characterizing cities. For instance, it was found that urban infrastructure (water supply pipes and electrical wires) tends to scale sublinearly with city population, implying that large cities are more efficient. In this study, we explore the scaling of the water footprint of cities. The water footprint is a measure of water appropriation that considers both the direct and indirect (virtual) water use of a consumer or producer. Here we compute the water footprint of 65 mid- to large-sized U.S. metropolitan areas, accounting for direct and indirect water uses associated with agricultural and industrial commodities, and residential and commercial water uses. We find that the urban water footprint, computed as the sum of the water footprint of consumption and production, exhibits sublinear scaling with an exponent of 0.89. This suggests the possibility of large cities being more water-efficient than small ones. To further assess this result, we conduct additional analysis by accounting for international flows, and the effects of green water and city boundary definition on the scaling. The analysis confirms the scaling and provides additional insight about its interpretation.

WHAT DOESNT GET MEASURED - DOESNT GET DONE: IMPLEMENTING CONTINUOUS PROCESS IMPROVEMENT IN THE AIR FORCE RESERVE

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-04-01

Practical Problem Solving Method RMD Resource Management Decision ROI Return on Investment SECAF Secretary of the Air Force SECNAV Secretary of...AFSO21 and now AF CPI, this program seeks to train and certify an organic cadre of CPI practitioners to support the use of its standard problem solving ...process known as the AF Practical Problem Solving Method (PPSM) to solve mission critical process deficiencies. The PPSM leverages several industry

The Armed Forces and Drug Trafficking: Operation Rio as a Case Study

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-01-01

remote Northern region of Brazil, a vast area that includes the states of Rondônia, Acre, Amazonia , Roraima, Pará, Amapá and Tocantins.37 In November...2000, the final report of the Legislative Committee of Inquiry (named Narcotraffic CPI) on the investigation into the extent of drug trafficking in...the internal investigation , the CPI verified the non-participation of federal agencies in contributing to the inquiries of the Committee. For example

Transgenic sugarcane overexpressing CaneCPI-1 negatively affects the growth and development of the sugarcane weevil Sphenophorus levis.

PubMed

Schneider, Vanessa Karine; Soares-Costa, Andrea; Chakravarthi, Mohan; Ribeiro, Carolina; Chabregas, Sabrina Moutinho; Falco, Maria Cristina; Henrique-Silva, Flavio

2017-01-01

Transgenic sugarcane expressing CaneCPI-1 exhibits resistance to Sphenophorus levis larvae. Transgenic plants have widely been used to improve resistance against insect attack. Sugarcane is an economically important crop; however, great losses are caused by insect attack. Sphenophorus levis is a sugarcane weevil that digs tunnels in the stem base, leading to the destruction of the crop. This insect is controlled inefficiently by chemical insecticides. Transgenic plants expressing peptidase inhibitors represent an important strategy for impairing insect growth and development. Knowledge of the major peptidase group present in the insect gut is critical when choosing the most effective inhibitor. S. levis larvae use cysteine peptidases as their major digestive enzymes, primarily cathepsin L-like activity. In this study, we developed transgenic sugarcane plants that overexpress sugarcane cysteine peptidase inhibitor 1 (CaneCPI-1) and assessed their potential through feeding bioassays with S. levis larvae. Cystatin overexpression in the transgenic plants was evaluated using semi-quantitative RT-PCR, RT-qPCR, and immunoblot assays. A 50% reduction of the average weight was observed in larvae that fed on transgenic plants in comparison to larvae that fed on non-transgenic plants. In addition, transgenic sugarcane exhibited less damage caused by larval attack than the controls. Our results suggest that the overexpression of CaneCPI-1 in sugarcane is a promising strategy for improving resistance against this insect.

Reduction Potentials of [FeFe]-Hydrogenase Accessory Iron-Sulfur Clusters Provide Insights into the Energetics of Proton Reduction Catalysis.

PubMed

Artz, Jacob H; Mulder, David W; Ratzloff, Michael W; Lubner, Carolyn E; Zadvornyy, Oleg A; LeVan, Axl X; Williams, S Garrett; Adams, Michael W W; Jones, Anne K; King, Paul W; Peters, John W

2017-07-19

An [FeFe]-hydrogenase from Clostridium pasteurianum, CpI, is a model system for biological H 2 activation. In addition to the catalytic H-cluster, CpI contains four accessory iron-sulfur [FeS] clusters in a branched series that transfer electrons to and from the active site. In this work, potentiometric titrations have been employed in combination with electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy at defined electrochemical potentials to gain insights into the role of the accessory clusters in catalysis. EPR spectra collected over a range of potentials were deconvoluted into individual components attributable to the accessory [FeS] clusters and the active site H-cluster, and reduction potentials for each cluster were determined. The data suggest a large degree of magnetic coupling between the clusters. The distal [4Fe-4S] cluster is shown to have a lower reduction potential (∼ < -450 mV) than the other clusters, and molecular docking experiments indicate that the physiological electron donor, ferredoxin (Fd), most favorably interacts with this cluster. The low reduction potential of the distal [4Fe-4S] cluster thermodynamically restricts the Fd ox /Fd red ratio at which CpI can operate, consistent with the role of CpI in recycling Fd red that accumulates during fermentation. Subsequent electron transfer through the additional accessory [FeS] clusters to the H-cluster is thermodynamically favorable.

Global ocean climatology of the 13C Suess effect and preindustrial δ13C

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eide, Marie; Olsen, Are; Ninnemann, Ulysses; Eldevik, Tor; Johannessen, Truls

2017-04-01

We present the first observationally based estimate of the full global ocean 13C Suess effect since preindustrial times. This was constructed by using Olsen and Ninnemann's [2010] back-calculation method to calculate the 13C Suess effect with data from 29 cruises spanning the world ocean. We find a strong 13C Suess effect in the upper 1000 m of all basins, with strongest decrease in the Subtropical Gyres of the Northern Hemisphere, where δ13C has decreased by more than 0.8‰ since the industrial revolution. At greater depths, a significant 13C Suess effect can only be detected in the northern parts of the North Atlantic Ocean. The magnitude of the 13C Suess effect is correlated with the concentration of anthropogenic carbon, but their relationship varying strongly between water masses, reflecting the degree to which source waters are equilibrated with the atmospheric 13C Suess effect before sinking. From the 13C Suess effect estimates, we have estimated the preindustrial δ13C (δ13CPI) along the 29 sections. Further, we developed regional multilinear regression equations, which were applied on the World Ocean Atlas data to construct the δ13CPI climatology, which reveals the natural δ13C distribution in the global ocean. Compared to the modern distribution, the preindustrial δ13C spans a larger range of values, and we find that in some regions in the high northern latitudes, the gradient in modern ocean δ13C is completely reversed compared to the preindustrial. Maximum δ13CPI, of up to 1.8‰, are found in the subtropical gyres of all basins, in the upper and intermediate waters of the North Atlantic, as well as in mode waters with a Southern Ocean origin. Particularly strong gradients occur at intermediate depths, revealing a strong potential for using δ13C as a tracer for changes in water mass geometry at these levels. Further, we identify a much tighter relationship between δ13C and Apparent Oxygen Utilization (AOU) than between δ13C and phosphate that occurs because both δ13C and AOU, in contrast to phosphate, are partly reset when waters are ventilated in the Southern Ocean. This makes δ13C a robust proxy for past changes in ocean oxygen content and ventilation. Our δ13CPI climatology has strong applications in paleo-sciences, and can be used for example for improved model evaluation, interpretation of sediment δ13C records, and core top comparison. Olsen, A., and U. Ninnemann (2010), Large δ13C gradients in the preindustrial North Atlantic revealed, Science, 330(6004), 658-659, doi:10.1126/science.1193769.

24 CFR 3286.7 - Consumer information.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 5 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Consumer information. 3286.7... Requirements § 3286.7 Consumer information. (a) Manufacturer's consumer manual. In each consumer manual... manufactured home, the retailer must provide the purchaser or lessee with a consumer disclosure. This...

Identification of rare pathogenic bacteria in a clinical microbiology laboratory: impact of matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Seng, Piseth; Abat, Cedric; Rolain, Jean Marc; Colson, Philippe; Lagier, Jean-Christophe; Gouriet, Frédérique; Fournier, Pierre Edouard; Drancourt, Michel; La Scola, Bernard; Raoult, Didier

2013-07-01

During the past 5 years, matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry (MS) has become a powerful tool for routine identification in many clinical laboratories. We analyzed our 11-year experience in routine identification of clinical isolates (40 months using MALDI-TOF MS and 91 months using conventional phenotypic identification [CPI]). Among the 286,842 clonal isolates, 284,899 isolates of 459 species were identified. The remaining 1,951 isolates were misidentified and required confirmation using a second phenotypic identification for 670 isolates and using a molecular technique for 1,273 isolates of 339 species. MALDI-TOF MS annually identified 112 species, i.e., 36 species/10,000 isolates, compared to 44 species, i.e., 19 species/10,000 isolates, for CPI. Only 50 isolates required second phenotypic identifications during the MALDI-TOF MS period (i.e., 4.5 reidentifications/10,000 isolates) compared with 620 isolates during the CPI period (i.e., 35.2/10,000 isolates). We identified 128 bacterial species rarely reported as human pathogens, including 48 using phenotypic techniques (22 using CPI and 37 using MALDI-TOF MS). Another 75 rare species were identified using molecular methods. MALDI-TOF MS reduced the time required for identification by 55-fold and 169-fold and the cost by 5-fold and 96-fold compared with CPI and gene sequencing, respectively. MALDI-TOF MS was a powerful tool not only for routine bacterial identification but also for identification of rare bacterial species implicated in human infectious diseases. The ability to rapidly identify bacterial species rarely described as pathogens in specific clinical specimens will help us to study the clinical burden resulting from the emergence of these species as human pathogens, and MALDI-TOF MS may be considered an alternative to molecular methods in clinical laboratories.

Identification of Rare Pathogenic Bacteria in a Clinical Microbiology Laboratory: Impact of Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization–Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry

PubMed Central

Seng, Piseth; Abat, Cedric; Rolain, Jean Marc; Colson, Philippe; Lagier, Jean-Christophe; Gouriet, Frédérique; Fournier, Pierre Edouard; Drancourt, Michel; La Scola, Bernard

2013-01-01

During the past 5 years, matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry (MS) has become a powerful tool for routine identification in many clinical laboratories. We analyzed our 11-year experience in routine identification of clinical isolates (40 months using MALDI-TOF MS and 91 months using conventional phenotypic identification [CPI]). Among the 286,842 clonal isolates, 284,899 isolates of 459 species were identified. The remaining 1,951 isolates were misidentified and required confirmation using a second phenotypic identification for 670 isolates and using a molecular technique for 1,273 isolates of 339 species. MALDI-TOF MS annually identified 112 species, i.e., 36 species/10,000 isolates, compared to 44 species, i.e., 19 species/10,000 isolates, for CPI. Only 50 isolates required second phenotypic identifications during the MALDI-TOF MS period (i.e., 4.5 reidentifications/10,000 isolates) compared with 620 isolates during the CPI period (i.e., 35.2/10,000 isolates). We identified 128 bacterial species rarely reported as human pathogens, including 48 using phenotypic techniques (22 using CPI and 37 using MALDI-TOF MS). Another 75 rare species were identified using molecular methods. MALDI-TOF MS reduced the time required for identification by 55-fold and 169-fold and the cost by 5-fold and 96-fold compared with CPI and gene sequencing, respectively. MALDI-TOF MS was a powerful tool not only for routine bacterial identification but also for identification of rare bacterial species implicated in human infectious diseases. The ability to rapidly identify bacterial species rarely described as pathogens in specific clinical specimens will help us to study the clinical burden resulting from the emergence of these species as human pathogens, and MALDI-TOF MS may be considered an alternative to molecular methods in clinical laboratories. PMID:23637301

Fully transparent and rollable electronics.

PubMed

Mativenga, Mallory; Geng, Di; Kim, Byungsoon; Jang, Jin

2015-01-28

Major obstacles toward the manufacture of transparent and flexible display screens include the difficulty of finding transparent and flexible semiconductors and electrodes, temperature restrictions of flexible plastic substrates, and bulging or warping of the flexible electronics during processing. Here we report the fabrication and performance of fully transparent and rollable thin-film transistor (TFT) circuits for display applications. The TFTs employ an amorphous indium-gallium-zinc oxide semiconductor (with optical band gap of 3.1 eV) and amorphous indium-zinc oxide transparent conductive electrodes, and are built on 15-μm-thick solution-processed colorless polyimide (CPI), resulting in optical transmittance >70% in the visible range. As the CPI supports processing temperatures >300 °C, TFT performance on plastic is similar to that on glass, with typical field-effect mobility, turn-on voltage, and subthreshold voltage swing of 12.7 ± 0.5 cm(2)/V·s, -1.7 ± 0.2 V, and 160 ± 29 mV/dec, respectively. There is no significant degradation after rolling the TFTs 100 times on a cylinder with a radius of 4 mm or when shift registers, each consisting of 40 TFTs, are operated while bent to a radius of 2 mm. For handling purposes, carrier glass is used during fabrication, together with a very thin (∼1 nm) solution-processed carbon nanotube (CNT)/graphene oxide (GO) backbone that is first spin-coated on the glass to decrease adhesion of the CPI to the glass; peel strength of the CPI from glass decreases from 0.43 to 0.10 N/cm, which eases the process of detachment performed after device fabrication. Given that the CNT/GO remains embedded under the CPI after detachment, it minimizes wrinkling and decreases the substrate's tensile elongation from 8.0% to 4.6%. Device performance is also stable under electrostatic discharge exposures up to 10 kV, as electrostatic charge can be released via the conducting CNTs.

Microbiology of broiler carcasses and chemistry of chiller water as affected by water reuse.

PubMed

Northcutt, J K; Smith, D; Huezo, R I; Ingram, K D

2008-07-01

A study was conducted to determine the effects of treating and reusing poultry chiller water in a commercial poultry processing facility. Broiler carcasses and chiller water were obtained from a commercial processing facility which had recently installed a TOMCO Pathogen Management System to recycle water in sections 2 and 3 of two 3-compartment chillers. In this system, reused water is blended with fresh water to maintain the chiller volume. Carcasses were sampled prechill and postchill (final exit), and chiller water was sampled from the beginning and end of each of the 3 sections. Carcasses were subjected to a whole carcass rinse (WCR) in 0.1% peptone. Numbers of Escherichia coli (EC), coliforms (CF), and Campylobacter (CPY) were determined from the WCR and chiller water samples. Prevalence of Salmonella (SAL) was also determined on the WCR and chiller water samples. On average, prechill levels of bacteria recovered from rinses were 2.6, 2.9, and 2.6 log10 cfu/mL for EC, CF, and CPY, respectively. Ten out of 40 (25%) prechill carcasses were positive for SAL. After chilling, numbers of EC, CF, and CPY recovered from carcass rinses decreased by 1.5, 1.5, and 2.0 log10 cfu/mL, respectively. However, 9 out of 40 (22%) postchill carcasses were positive for SAL. When the chiller water samples were tested, counts of EC, CF, and CPY were found only in water collected from the first section of the chiller (inlet and outlet). Two of 4 water samples collected from the inlet of the first section tested positive for SAL. This study shows that fresh and reused water can be used to cool poultry in chiller systems to achieve a reduction in numbers of bacteria (EC, CF, and CPY) or equivalent prevalence (SAL) of bacteria recovered from broiler carcasses.

Carbachol-induced rabbit bladder smooth muscle contraction: roles of protein kinase C and Rho kinase.

PubMed

Wang, Tanchun; Kendig, Derek M; Smolock, Elaine M; Moreland, Robert S

2009-12-01

Smooth muscle contraction is regulated by phosphorylation of the myosin light chain (MLC) catalyzed by MLC kinase and dephosphorylation catalyzed by MLC phosphatase. Agonist stimulation of smooth muscle results in the inhibition of MLC phosphatase activity and a net increase in MLC phosphorylation and therefore force. The two pathways believed to be primarily important for inhibition of MLC phosphatase activity are protein kinase C (PKC)-catalyzed CPI-17 phosphorylation and Rho kinase (ROCK)-catalyzed myosin phosphatase-targeting subunit (MYPT1) phosphorylation. The goal of this study was to determine the roles of PKC and ROCK and their downstream effectors in regulating MLC phosphorylation levels and force during the phasic and sustained phases of carbachol-stimulated contraction in intact bladder smooth muscle. These studies were performed in the presence and absence of the PKC inhibitor bisindolylmaleimide-1 (Bis) or the ROCK inhibitor H-1152. Phosphorylation levels of Thr(38)-CPI-17 and Thr(696)/Thr(850)-MYPT1 were measured at different times during carbachol stimulation using site-specific antibodies. Thr(38)-CPI-17 phosphorylation increased concurrently with carbachol-stimulated force generation. This increase was reduced by inhibition of PKC during the entire contraction but was only reduced by ROCK inhibition during the sustained phase of contraction. MYPT1 showed high basal phosphorylation levels at both sites; however, only Thr(850) phosphorylation increased with carbachol stimulation; the increase was abolished by the inhibition of either ROCK or PKC. Our results suggest that during agonist stimulation, PKC regulates MLC phosphatase activity through phosphorylation of CPI-17. In contrast, ROCK phosphorylates both Thr(850)-MYPT1 and CPI-17, possibly through cross talk with a PKC pathway, but is only significant during the sustained phase of contraction. Last, our results demonstrate that there is a constitutively activate pool of ROCK that phosphorylates MYPT1 in the basal state, which may account for the high resting levels of MLC phosphorylation measured in rabbit bladder smooth muscle.

Study of the strong {sigma}{sub c}{yields}{lambda}{sub c}{pi},{sigma}{sub c}*{yields}{lambda}{sub c}{pi} and {xi}{sub c}*{yields}{xi}{sub c}{pi} decays in a nonrelativistic quark model

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

Albertus, C.; Nieves, J.; Hernandez, E.

We present results for the strong widths corresponding to the {sigma}{sub c}{yields}{lambda}{sub c}{pi}, {sigma}{sub c}*{yields}{lambda}{sub c}{pi} and {xi}{sub c}*{yields}{xi}{sub c}{pi} decays. The calculations have been done in a nonrelativistic constituent quark model with wave functions that take advantage of the constraints imposed by heavy quark symmetry. Partial conservation of axial current hypothesis allows us to determine the strong vertices from an analysis of the axial current matrix elements. Our results {gamma}({sigma}{sub c}{sup ++}{yields}{lambda}{sub c}{sup +}{pi}{sup +})=2.41{+-}0.07{+-}0.02 MeV, {gamma}({sigma}{sub c}{sup +}{yields}{lambda}{sub c}{sup +}{pi}{sup 0})=2.79{+-}0.08{+-}0.02 MeV, {gamma}({sigma}{sub c}{sup 0}{yields}{lambda}{sub c}{sup +}{pi}{sup -})=2.37{+-}0.07{+-}0.02 MeV, {gamma}({sigma}{sub c}*{sup ++}{yields}{lambda}{sub c}{sup +}{pi}{sup +})=17.52{+-}0.74{+-}0.12 MeV, {gamma}({sigma}{sub c}*{supmore » +}{yields}{lambda}{sub c}{sup +}{pi}{sup 0})=17.31{+-}0.73{+-}0.12 MeV, {gamma}({sigma}{sub c}*{sup 0}{yields}{lambda}{sub c}{sup +}{pi}{sup -})=16.90{+-}0.71{+-}0.12 MeV, {gamma}({xi}{sub c}*{sup +}{yields}{xi}{sub c}{sup 0}{pi}{sup +}+{xi}{sub c}{sup +}{pi}{sup 0})=3.18{+-}0.10{+-}0.01 MeV, and {gamma}({xi}{sub c}*{sup 0}{yields}{xi}{sub c}{sup +}{pi}{sup -}+{xi}{sub c}{sup 0}{pi}{sup 0})=3.03{+-}0.10{+-}0.01 MeV are in good agreement with experimental determinations.« less

The nexus between urbanization and PM2.5 related mortality in China.

PubMed

Liu, Miaomiao; Huang, Yining; Jin, Zhou; Ma, Zongwei; Liu, Xingyu; Zhang, Bing; Liu, Yang; Yu, Yang; Wang, Jinnan; Bi, Jun; Kinney, Patrick L

2017-08-01

The launch of China's new national urbanization plan, coupled with increasing concerns about air pollution, calls for better understandings of the nexus between urbanization and the air pollution-related health. Based on refined estimates of PM 2.5 related mortality in China, we developed an Urbanization-Excess Deaths Elasticity (U-EDE) indicator to measure the marginal PM 2.5 related mortality caused by urbanization. We then applied statistical models to estimate U-EDE and examined the modification effects of income on U-EDE. Urbanization in China between 2004 and 2012 led to increased PM 2.5 related mortality. A 1% increase in urbanization was associated with a 0.32%, 0.14%, and 0.50% increase in PM 2.5 related mortality of lung cancer, stroke, and ischemic heart disease. U-EDEs were modified by income with an inverted U curve, i.e., lower marginal impacts at the lowest and highest income levels. In addition, we projected the future U-EDE trend of China as a whole and found that China had experienced the peak of U-EDE and entered the second half of the inverted U-shaped curve. In the near future, national average U-EDE in China will decline along with the improvement of income level if no dramatic changes happen. However, the decreased U-EDE only implies that marginal PM 2.5 -related mortality brought by urbanization would decrease in China. Total health damage of urbanization will keep going up in the predictable future because the U-EDE is always positive. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Report Briefs: Publications of the Energy Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, 1999

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

Moser, C.I.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is responsible for collecting data to estimate price indices such as the Consumer Price Index (CPI). BLS accomplishes this task by sending field staff to places of business to price actual products. The field staff are given product checklists to help them determine whether the products found are comparable to products priced the previous month. Prices for noncomparable products are not included in the current month's price index calculations. A serious problem facing BLS is developing product checklists for dynamic product areas, new industries, and the service sector. It is difficult to keep checklistsmore » up to date and quite often simply to develop checklists for service industry products. Some people estimate that more than 50% of U.S. economic activity is not accounted for in the CPI. The objective it to provide the results of tests on a method for helping BLS staff build new product checklists quickly and efficiently. The domain chosen for studying the method was the telecommunications industry. The method developed by ORNL is based on behavioral science and knowledge-engineering principles. The method has ten steps, which include developing a sample of domain experts, asking experts to list products in the domain, culling the list of products to a manageable number, asking experts to group the remaining products, identifying product clusters using multidimensional scaling and cluster analysis, asking experts to compare pairs of products within clusters, and, finally, developing checklists with the comparison data. The method performed as expected. Several prototype checklists for products in the telecommunications domain were developed, including checklists for paging services, digital cell phones, web browsers, routers, and LAN modems. It was particularly difficult, however, to find experts to participate in the project. Attending a professional meeting and contacting experts from the conference's mailing list proved to be the best approach for this domain. The method has performed well in two domains: the telecommunications industry, as demonstrated in this project, and the PC software industry, as demonstrated in a previous project. It is recommended that the method be further tested in additional service industries, such as the nursing home industry. In addition, further attention needs to be devoted to developing procedures for the method to improve its cost and time efficiency. For example, if automated methods were used to collect information from the experts and if the experts could be assembled at one time, it could be possible to create prototype checklists in one day.« less

Salivary inflammatory cytokines may be novel markers of carotid atherosclerosis in a Japanese general population: the Suita study.

PubMed

Kosaka, Takayuki; Kokubo, Yoshihiro; Ono, Takahiro; Sekine, Shinichi; Kida, Momoyo; Kikui, Miki; Yamamoto, Masaaki; Watanabe, Makoto; Amano, Atsuo; Maeda, Yoshinobu; Miyamoto, Yoshihiro

2014-11-01

Salivary biomarkers have been recently useful of periodontal disease, which is also risk factor of atherosclerosis. However, there are few studies of the association between salivary inflammatory cytokines and carotid atherosclerosis. We aimed to clarify the association between salivary inflammatory cytokines and periodontal disease and carotid atherosclerosis in a general urban population. We studied 608 Japanese men and women (mean age: 65.4 years) in the Suita study. Carotid atherosclerosis was evaluated by high-resolution ultrasonography with atherosclerotic indexes of intima-media thickness (IMT). Periodontal status was evaluated by the Community Periodontal Index (CPI). Salivary levels of interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) were measured by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. The risks of carotid atherosclerosis (≥75th percentiles of mean- [0.88 mm] and Max-IMT [1.50 mm]) according to the quartiles of salivary inflammatory cytokines were compared using of adjusted-logistic regression models. All salivary inflammatory cytokines were positively associated with CPI. The adjusted odds ratios for carotid atherosclerosis of mean-IMT in the highest quartile of interleukin-6 and TNF-α were higher than those in the lowest quartiles (OR = 2.32 and 2.88; 95% confidence intervals = 1.19-4.51 and 1.51-5.49, respectively). The adjusted odds ratio for carotid atherosclerosis of mean-IMT in the highest quartile of PGE2 was greater than those in the lowest quartile in women (OR = 2.78; 95% confidence intervals = 1.11-6.95). In conclusion, higher levels of salivary inflammatory cytokines were associated with both periodontal disease and carotid atherosclerosis. Selected salivary inflammatory cytokines may be useful screening markers for periodontal disease and carotid atherosclerosis. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.

Correlates of elemental-isotopic composition of stream fishes: the importance of land-use, species identity and body size.

PubMed

Montaña, C G; Schalk, C M

2018-04-01

The isotopic (δ 13 C and δ 15 N) and stoichiometric (C:N:P) compositions of four fish species (Family Centrarchidae: Lepomis auritus, Lepomis cyanellus; Family Cyprinidae: Nocomis leptocephalus, Semotilus atromaculatus) were examined across four North Carolina Piedmont streams arrayed along an urbanization gradient. Both isotopic and stoichiometric composition of fishes appeared to track changes occurring in basal resource availability. Values of δ 13 C of basal resources and consumers were more enriched at the most urbanized streams. Similarly, basal resources and consumers were δ 15 N-enriched at more urbanized streams. Basal resource stoichiometry varied across streams, with periphyton being the most variable. Primary consumers stoichiometry also differed across streams. Intraspecific variation in fish stoichiometry correlated with the degree of urbanization, as the two cyprinids had higher N content and L. cyanellus had higher P content in more urbanized streams, probably due to enrichment of basal resources. Intrinsic factors, specifically species identity and body size also affected stoichiometric variation. Phosphorus (P) content increased significantly with body size in centrarchids, but not in cyprinids. These results suggest that although species identity and body size are important predictors of elemental stoichiometry, the complex nature of altered urban streams may yield imbalances in the elemental composition of consumers via their food resources. © 2018 The Fisheries Society of the British Isles.

A natural value unit—Econophysics as arbiter between finance and economics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Defilla, Steivan

2007-08-01

Foreign exchange markets show that currency units ( = accounting or nominal price units) are variables. Technical and economic progress evidences that the consumer baskets ( = purchasing power units or real price units) are also variables. In contrast, all physical measurement units are constants and either defined in the SI (=metric) convention or based upon natural constants ( = “natural” or Planck units). Econophysics can identify a constant natural value scale or value unit (natural numeraire) based upon Planck energy. In honor of the economist L. Walras, this “Planck value” could be called Walras (Wal), thereby using the SI naming convention. One Wal can be shown to have a physiological and an economic interpretation in that it is equal to the annual minimal real cost of physiological life of a reference person at minimal activity. The price of one Wal in terms of any currency can be estimated by hedonic regression techniques used in inflation measurement (axiometry). This pilot research uses official disaggregated Swiss Producer and Consumer Price Index (PPI and CPI) data and estimates the hedonic Walras price (HWP), quoted in Swiss francs in 2003, and its inverse, the physical purchasing power (PhPP) of the Swiss franc in 2003.

The effect of consumer perceptions of quality and sacrifice on hospital choice: a suburban vs. urban competitive scenario.

PubMed

Gooding, S K

1996-01-01

The primary objective of this research was to determine how a suburban hospital located near an urban center fares when local consumers are selecting a hospital. A significant portion of the 161 suburban respondents to the study's mail survey perceive the quality of care available at alternative urban hospitals to be higher than that available at their local suburban hospital on the vast majority of quality-related attributes. Most respondents, however, select their local hospital for both major and minor medical treatment. Te greater value represented by suburban hospitals, due to their relative closeness to the consumer, represents a significant competitive advantage.

Heterologous expression of taro cystatin protects transgenic tomato against Meloidogyne incognita infection by means of interfering sex determination and suppressing gall formation.

PubMed

Chan, Yuan-Li; Yang, Ai-Hwa; Chen, Jen-Tzu; Yeh, Kai-Wun; Chan, Ming-Tsair

2010-03-01

Plant-parasitic nematodes are a major pest of many plant species and cause global economic loss. A phytocystatin gene, Colocasia esculenta cysteine proteinase inhibitor (CeCPI), isolated from a local taro Kaosiang No. 1, and driven by a CaMV35S promoter was delivered into CLN2468D, a heat-tolerant cultivar of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). When infected with Meloidogyne incognita, one of root-knot nematode (RKN) species, transgenic T1 lines overexpressing CeCPI suppressed gall formation as evidenced by a pronounced reduction in gall numbers. In comparison with wild-type plants, a much lower proportion of female nematodes without growth retardation was observed in transgenic plants. A decrease of RKN egg mass in transgenic plants indicated seriously impaired fecundity. Overexpression of CeCPI in transgenic tomato has inhibitory functions not only in the early RKN infection stage but also in the production of offspring, which may result from intervention in sex determination.

E-Government Attempts in Small Island Developing States: The Rate of Corruption with Virtualization.

PubMed

Sari, Arif

2017-12-01

In recent years, many Small Island Developing State (SIDS) governments have worked to increase openness and transparency of their transactions as a means to enhance efficiency and reduce corruption in their economies. In order to achieve a cost-effective and efficient strategy to implement a transparent government, Information Communication Technologies offer an opportunity of virtualization by deploying e-government services to promote transparency, accountability and consistency in the public sector and to minimize corruption. This paper explores the potential impact of government virtualization by SIDS and against corruption by comparing the corruption perception index (CPI) rates of 15 SIDS countries. The CPI relates to the degree by which corruption is perceived to exist among public officials and politicians by business people and country analysts. In order to reveal the long-term impact of virtual deployment and its consequences on corruption, an in-depth case analysis based on the CPI index rates was conducted on the deployment of the e-government system in Cyprus.

Public response to the urban forest in inner-city business districts

Treesearch

Kathleen L. Wolf

2003-01-01

Revitalization programs are under way in many inner-city business districts. An urban forestry program can be an important element in creating an appealing consumer environment, yet it may not be considered a priority given that there are often many physical improvements needs. This research evaluated the role of trees in consumer/...

A hydrologic-economic modeling approach for analysis of urban water supply dynamics in Chennai, India

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Srinivasan, Veena; Gorelick, Steven M.; Goulder, Lawrence

2010-07-01

In this paper, we discuss a challenging water resources problem in a developing world city, Chennai, India. The goal is to reconstruct past system behavior and diagnose the causes of a major water crisis. In order to do this, we develop a hydrologic-engineering-economic model to address the complexity of urban water supply arising from consumers' dependence on multiple interconnected sources of water. We integrate different components of the urban water system: water flowing into the reservoir system; diversion and distribution by the public water utility; groundwater flow in the aquifer beneath the city; supply, demand, and prices in the informal tanker-truck-based water market; and consumer behavior. Both the economic and physical impacts of consumers' dependence on multiple sources of water are quantified. The model is calibrated over the period 2002-2006 using a range of hydrologic and socio-economic data. The model's results highlight the inadequacy of the reservoir system and the buffering role played by the urban aquifer and consumers' coping investments during multiyear droughts.

Cosmetic surgery growth and correlations with financial indices: a comparative study of the United Kingdom and United States from 2002-2011.

PubMed

Nassab, Reza; Harris, Paul

2013-05-01

Over the past 10 years, there has been significant fluctuation in the yearly growth rates for cosmetic surgery procedures in both the United States and the United Kingdom. The authors compare cosmetic surgical procedure rates in the United Kingdom and United States with the macroeconomic climate of each region to determine whether there is a direct relationship between cosmetic surgery rates and economic health. The authors analyzed annual cosmetic surgery statistics from the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery for 2002-2011 against economic indices from both regions, including the gross domestic product (GDP), consumer prices indices (CPI), and stock market reports. There was a 285.9% increase in the United Kingdom and a 1.1% increase in the United States in the number of procedures performed between 2002 and 2011. There were significant positive correlations between the number of cosmetic procedures performed in the United Kingdom and both the GDP (r = 0.986, P < .01) and CPI (r = 0.955, P < .01). Analysis of the US growth rates failed to show a significant relationship with any indices. UK interest rates showed a significant negative correlation (r = -0.668, P < .05) with procedures performed, whereas US interest rates showed a significant positive correlation. Data from the United States and United Kingdom suggest 2 very different growth patterns in the number of cosmetic surgeries being performed as compared with the economy in each region. Economic indices are accurate indicators of numbers of procedures being performed in the United Kingdom, whereas rates in the United States seem independent of those factors.

Manipulative interplay of two adozelesin molecules with d(ATTAAT)₂achieving ligand-stacked Watson-Crick and Hoogsteen base-paired duplex adducts.

PubMed

Hopton, Suzanne R; Thompson, Andrew S

2011-05-17

Previous structural studies of the cyclopropapyrroloindole (CPI) antitumor antibiotics have shown that these ligands bind covalently edge-on into the minor groove of double-stranded DNA. Reversible covalent modification of the DNA via N3 of adenine occurs in a sequence-specific fashion. Early nuclear magnetic resonance and molecular modeling studies with both mono- and bis-alkylating ligands indicated that the ligands fit tightly within the minor groove, causing little distortion of the helix. In this study, we propose a new binding model for several of the CPI-based analogues, in which the aromatic secondary rings form π-stacked complexes within the minor groove. One of the adducts, formed with adozelesin and the d(ATTAAT)(2) sequence, also demonstrates the ability of these ligands to manipulate the DNA of the binding site, resulting in a Hoogsteen base-paired adduct. Although this type of base pairing has been previously observed with the bisfunctional CPI analogue bizelesin, this is the first time that such an observation has been made with a monoalkylating nondimeric analogue. Together, these results provide a new model for the design of CPI-based antitumor antibiotics, which also has a significant bearing on other structurally related and structurally unrelated minor groove-binding ligands. They indicate the dynamic nature of ligand-DNA interactions, demonstrating both DNA conformational flexibility and the ability of two DNA-bound ligands to interact to form stable covalent modified complexes.

Reduction Potentials of [FeFe]-Hydrogenase Accessory Iron–Sulfur Clusters Provide Insights into the Energetics of Proton Reduction Catalysis

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

Artz, Jacob H.; Mulder, David W.; Ratzloff, Michael W.

An [FeFe]-hydrogenase from Clostridium pasteurianum, CpI, is a model system for biological H 2 activation. In addition to the catalytic H-cluster, CpI contains four accessory iron-sulfur [FeS] clusters in a branched series that transfer electrons to and from the active site. In this work, potentiometric titrations have been employed in combination with electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy at defined electrochemical potentials to gain insights into the role of the accessory clusters in catalysis. EPR spectra collected over a range of potentials were deconvoluted into individual components attributable to the accessory [FeS] clusters and the active site H-cluster, and reduction potentialsmore » for each cluster were determined. The data suggest a large degree of magnetic coupling between the clusters. The distal [4Fe-4S] cluster is shown to have a lower reduction potential (~ < -450 mV) than the other clusters, and molecular docking experiments indicate that the physiological electron donor, ferredoxin (Fd), most favorably interacts with this cluster. The low reduction potential of the distal [4Fe-4S] cluster thermodynamically restricts the Fd ox/Fd red ratio at which CpI can operate, consistent with the role of CpI in recycling Fd redthat accumulates during fermentation. In conclusion, subsequent electron transfer through the additional accessory [FeS] clusters to the H-cluster is thermodynamically favorable.« less

Hunger influenced life expectancy in war-torn Sub-Saharan African countries.

PubMed

Uchendu, Florence N

2018-04-27

Malnutrition is a global public health problem especially in developing countries experiencing war/conflicts. War might be one of the socio-political factors influencing malnutrition in Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries. This study aims at determining the influence of war on corruption, population (POP), number of population malnourished (NPU), food security and life expectancy (LE) in war-torn SSA countries (WTSSA) by comparing their malnutrition indicators. Fourteen countries in WTSSA were stratified into zones according to war incidences. Countries' secondary data on population (POP), NPU, Food Security Index (FSI), corruption perceptions index (CPI), Global Hunger Index (GHI) and LE were obtained from global published data. T test, multivariate and Pearson correlation analyses were performed to determine the relationship between CPI, POP, GHI, FSI, NPU, male LE (MLE) and female LE (FLE) in WTSSA at p < .05. Data were presented in tables, means, standard deviation and percentages. Mean NPU, CPI, GHI, POP, FSI, MLE and FLE in WTSSA were 5.0 million, 28.3%, 18.2%, 33.8 million, 30.8%, 54.7 years and 57.1 years, respectively. GHI significantly influenced LE in both male and female POP in WTSSA. NPU, CPI, FSI, GHI and FLE were not significantly different according to zones except in MLE. Malnutrition indicators were similarly affected in WTSSA. Hunger influenced life expectancy. Policies promoting good governance, equity, peaceful co-existence, respect for human right and adequate food supply will aid malnutrition eradication and prevent war occurrences in Sub-Saharan African countries.

Reduction Potentials of [FeFe]-Hydrogenase Accessory Iron–Sulfur Clusters Provide Insights into the Energetics of Proton Reduction Catalysis

DOE PAGES

Artz, Jacob H.; Mulder, David W.; Ratzloff, Michael W.; ...

2017-06-21

An [FeFe]-hydrogenase from Clostridium pasteurianum, CpI, is a model system for biological H 2 activation. In addition to the catalytic H-cluster, CpI contains four accessory iron-sulfur [FeS] clusters in a branched series that transfer electrons to and from the active site. In this work, potentiometric titrations have been employed in combination with electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy at defined electrochemical potentials to gain insights into the role of the accessory clusters in catalysis. EPR spectra collected over a range of potentials were deconvoluted into individual components attributable to the accessory [FeS] clusters and the active site H-cluster, and reduction potentialsmore » for each cluster were determined. The data suggest a large degree of magnetic coupling between the clusters. The distal [4Fe-4S] cluster is shown to have a lower reduction potential (~ < -450 mV) than the other clusters, and molecular docking experiments indicate that the physiological electron donor, ferredoxin (Fd), most favorably interacts with this cluster. The low reduction potential of the distal [4Fe-4S] cluster thermodynamically restricts the Fd ox/Fd red ratio at which CpI can operate, consistent with the role of CpI in recycling Fd redthat accumulates during fermentation. In conclusion, subsequent electron transfer through the additional accessory [FeS] clusters to the H-cluster is thermodynamically favorable.« less

Incidence and risk factors for central venous access port-related infection in Chinese cancer patients.

PubMed

Wang, Ting-Yao; Lee, Kuan-Der; Chen, Ping-Tsung; Chen, Min-Chi; Chen, Yi-Yang; Huang, Cih-En; Kuan, Feng-Che; Chen, Chih-Cheng; Lu, Chang Hsien

2015-11-01

Cytotoxic chemotherapy via central venous access ports is an important part of the standard treatment for most cancers, but it is accompanied with the risk of infections. This study aimed to analyze the incidence and risk factors for central venous access port-related infection (CPI) among Chinese patients receiving cytotoxic chemotherapy. Between January 1, 2002 and December 31, 2005 a total of 1391 cancer patients with 1449 totally implantable central venous access ports were evaluated. The log-rank test and Cox proportional hazards model were used for the analyses of risk factors. The overall CPI incidence rate was 0.21 per 1000 catheter-days. Hematological malignancies and head and neck cancer were associated with an increased risk of CPI (hazard ratio 4.00 and 4.11, respectively, both p < 0.001) and less infection-free catheter longevity (p < 0.001) compared with other cancer types. Chemotherapy in an adjuvant setting was associated with a lower risk of infection than for patients in a nonadjuvant setting (p < 0.001). The most common pathogens isolated from CPI were Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida. Infection remains to be a challenging issue for totally implantable central venous ports. Implementation of an insertion bundle for the prevention of central line-associated bloodstream infections is warranted, especially for those patients with hematological and head and neck cancers, as well as for patients receiving chemotherapy in the metastatic settings. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Characterising Wildlife Trade Market Supply-Demand Dynamics

PubMed Central

Rowcliffe, M.; Cowlishaw, G.; Alexander, J. S.; Ntiamoa-Baidu, Y.; Brenya, A.; Milner-Gulland, E. J.

2016-01-01

The trade in wildlife products can represent an important source of income for poor people, but also threaten wildlife locally, regionally and internationally. Bushmeat provides livelihoods for hunters, traders and sellers, protein to rural and urban consumers, and has depleted the populations of many tropical forest species. Management interventions can be targeted towards the consumers or suppliers of wildlife products. There has been a general assumption in the bushmeat literature that the urban trade is driven by consumer demand with hunters simply fulfilling this demand. Using the urban bushmeat trade in the city of Kumasi, Ghana, as a case study, we use a range of datasets to explore the processes driving the urban bushmeat trade. We characterise the nature of supply and demand by explicitly considering three market attributes: resource condition, hunter behaviour, and consumer behaviour. Our results suggest that bushmeat resources around Kumasi are becoming increasingly depleted and are unable to meet demand, that hunters move in and out of the trade independently of price signals generated by the market, and that, for the Kumasi bushmeat system, consumption levels are driven not by consumer choice but by shortfalls in supply and consequent price responses. Together, these results indicate that supply-side processes dominate the urban bushmeat trade in Kumasi. This suggests that future management interventions should focus on changing hunter behaviour, although complementary interventions targeting consumer demand are also likely to be necessary in the long term. Our approach represents a structured and repeatable method to assessing market dynamics in information-poor systems. The findings serve as a caution against assuming that wildlife markets are demand driven, and highlight the value of characterising market dynamics to inform appropriate management. PMID:27632169

Characterising Wildlife Trade Market Supply-Demand Dynamics.

PubMed

McNamara, J; Rowcliffe, M; Cowlishaw, G; Alexander, J S; Ntiamoa-Baidu, Y; Brenya, A; Milner-Gulland, E J

2016-01-01

The trade in wildlife products can represent an important source of income for poor people, but also threaten wildlife locally, regionally and internationally. Bushmeat provides livelihoods for hunters, traders and sellers, protein to rural and urban consumers, and has depleted the populations of many tropical forest species. Management interventions can be targeted towards the consumers or suppliers of wildlife products. There has been a general assumption in the bushmeat literature that the urban trade is driven by consumer demand with hunters simply fulfilling this demand. Using the urban bushmeat trade in the city of Kumasi, Ghana, as a case study, we use a range of datasets to explore the processes driving the urban bushmeat trade. We characterise the nature of supply and demand by explicitly considering three market attributes: resource condition, hunter behaviour, and consumer behaviour. Our results suggest that bushmeat resources around Kumasi are becoming increasingly depleted and are unable to meet demand, that hunters move in and out of the trade independently of price signals generated by the market, and that, for the Kumasi bushmeat system, consumption levels are driven not by consumer choice but by shortfalls in supply and consequent price responses. Together, these results indicate that supply-side processes dominate the urban bushmeat trade in Kumasi. This suggests that future management interventions should focus on changing hunter behaviour, although complementary interventions targeting consumer demand are also likely to be necessary in the long term. Our approach represents a structured and repeatable method to assessing market dynamics in information-poor systems. The findings serve as a caution against assuming that wildlife markets are demand driven, and highlight the value of characterising market dynamics to inform appropriate management.

Three essays on monetary policy responses to oil price shocks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Plante, Michael

This dissertation contains three chapters which explore the question of how monetary policy should respond to changes in the price of oil. Each chapter explores the question from the perspective of a different economic environment. The first chapter examines welfare maximizing optimal monetary policy in a closed economy New Keynesian model that is extended to include household and firm demand for oil products, sticky wages, and capital accumulation. When households and firms demand oil products a natural difference arises between the Consumer Price Index (CPI), the core CPI, and the GDP deflator. I show that when nominal wages are flexible then the optimal policy places a heavy emphasis on stabilizing the inflation rate of the core CPI. If aggregate nominal wages are sticky then the central bank should focus on stabilizing some combination of core inflation and nominal wage inflation. Under no case examined is it optimal to stabilize either GDP deflator or CPI inflation. The second chapter examines monetary policy responses to oil price shocks in a small open economy with traded and non-traded goods. Oil and labor are used to produce the traded and non-traded goods and prices are sticky in the non-traded sector. I show analytically that the ratio of the oil and labor cost shares in the traded and non-traded sectors is crucial for determining the dynamic behavior of many macroeconomic variables after a rise in the price of oil. A policy of fixed exchange rates can produce higher or lower inflation in the non-traded sector depending upon the ratio. Likewise, a policy that stabilizes the inflation rate of prices in the non-traded sector can cause the nominal exchange rate to appreciate or depreciate. For the proper calibration, a policy that stabilizes core inflation produces results very close to the one that stabilizes non-traded inflation. Analytical results show that the fixed exchange rate always produces a unique solution. The policy of stabilizing non-traded inflation produces a unique solution so long as the nominal interest rate is raised more than one for one with increases in non-traded inflation. A policy of stabilizing core inflation, however, produces a unique solution only if the response is greater than one for one and less then one divided by one minus the share of the non-traded good in the CPI. In the third chapter I consider monetary and fiscal policy responses to oil price shocks in a low income oil importing country. The model used in this chapter differs from the model in the second chapter in that there is currency substitution, household demand for oil products, and a potential subsidy on the purchase of oil products by households. I examine the dynamic properties and the welfare implications of a set of inflation targeting policies and a group of policies that subsidize the price of oil and finance the subsidy through a combination of raising lump sum taxes and printing money. The dynamic properties of the inflation targeting policies are similar in many regards to those in the second chapter as the key assumptions driving the results are the same in the two models. For the policies which subsidize the price of oil I show that both the choice to have the subsidy and how to finance it matter a great deal for the behavior of the macroeconomic variables. In terms of welfare, for most calibrations there are only minor differences between the inflation targeting polices, the policy with a subsidy funded by lump sum taxes, and the baseline policy with no subsidy. The policy with a subsidy financed by the inflation tax generally causes significant welfare losses compared to the policy with no pass through.

Peak load demand forecasting using two-level discrete wavelet decomposition and neural network algorithm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bunnoon, Pituk; Chalermyanont, Kusumal; Limsakul, Chusak

2010-02-01

This paper proposed the discrete transform and neural network algorithms to obtain the monthly peak load demand in mid term load forecasting. The mother wavelet daubechies2 (db2) is employed to decomposed, high pass filter and low pass filter signals from the original signal before using feed forward back propagation neural network to determine the forecasting results. The historical data records in 1997-2007 of Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) is used as reference. In this study, historical information of peak load demand(MW), mean temperature(Tmean), consumer price index (CPI), and industrial index (economic:IDI) are used as feature inputs of the network. The experimental results show that the Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) is approximately 4.32%. This forecasting results can be used for fuel planning and unit commitment of the power system in the future.

An application of robust ridge regression model in the presence of outliers to real data problem

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shariff, N. S. Md.; Ferdaos, N. A.

2017-09-01

Multicollinearity and outliers are often leads to inconsistent and unreliable parameter estimates in regression analysis. The well-known procedure that is robust to multicollinearity problem is the ridge regression method. This method however is believed are affected by the presence of outlier. The combination of GM-estimation and ridge parameter that is robust towards both problems is on interest in this study. As such, both techniques are employed to investigate the relationship between stock market price and macroeconomic variables in Malaysia due to curiosity of involving the multicollinearity and outlier problem in the data set. There are four macroeconomic factors selected for this study which are Consumer Price Index (CPI), Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Base Lending Rate (BLR) and Money Supply (M1). The results demonstrate that the proposed procedure is able to produce reliable results towards the presence of multicollinearity and outliers in the real data.

77 FR 32951 - Commission Agenda and Priorities; Notice of Hearing

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-04

... CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION Commission Agenda and Priorities; Notice of Hearing AGENCY: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. ACTION: Notice of public hearing. SUMMARY: The U.S. Consumer Product... Secretary, U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 4330 East West Highway, Bethesda, MD 20814, no later...

Quantum-optical coherence tomography with classical light.

PubMed

Lavoie, J; Kaltenbaek, R; Resch, K J

2009-03-02

Quantum-optical coherence tomography (Q-OCT) is an interferometric technique for axial imaging offering several advantages over conventional methods. Chirped-pulse interferometry (CPI) was recently demonstrated to exhibit all of the benefits of the quantum interferometer upon which Q-OCT is based. Here we use CPI to measure axial interferograms to profile a sample accruing the important benefits of Q-OCT, including automatic dispersion cancellation, but with 10 million times higher signal. Our technique solves the artifact problem in Q-OCT and highlights the power of classical correlation in optical imaging.

Classical analogues of two-photon quantum interference.

PubMed

Kaltenbaek, R; Lavoie, J; Resch, K J

2009-06-19

Chirped-pulse interferometry (CPI) captures the metrological advantages of quantum Hong-Ou-Mandel (HOM) interferometry in a completely classical system. Modified HOM interferometers are the basis for a number of seminal quantum-interference effects. Here, the corresponding modifications to CPI allow for the first observation of classical analogues to the HOM peak and quantum beating. They also allow a new classical technique for generating phase super-resolution exhibiting a coherence length dramatically longer than that of the laser light, analogous to increased two-photon coherence lengths in entangled states.

78 FR 37797 - Commission Agenda and Priorities; Notice of Hearing

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-24

... CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION Commission Agenda and Priorities; Notice of Hearing AGENCY: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. ACTION: Notice of public hearing. SUMMARY: The U.S. Consumer Product... mailed or delivered to the Office of the Secretary, U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 4330 East...

Estimating U.S. residential demand for fuelwood in the presence of selectivity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Daly, Ryan Michael

Residential energy consumers have options for home heating. With many applications, appliances, and fuel types, fuelwood used for heating faces stiff competition in modern society from other fuels. This study estimates demand for domestic fuelwood. It also examines whether evidence of bias exists from residential homes choosing to use fuelwood. The use of OLS as an estimator will yield biased results if such selectivity exists. Selectivity is addressed with a Heckman (1979) two-step procedure; bias in fuelwood demand estimation using OLS is reduced. Non-wood energy prices and income are major determinants of fuelwood demand. Geographical regions and urbanization confirm results from prior studies.

NDVI indicated characteristics of vegetation cover change in China's metropolises over the last three decades.

PubMed

Sun, Jinyu; Wang, Xuhui; Chen, Anping; Ma, Yuecun; Cui, Mengdi; Piao, Shilong

2011-08-01

How urban vegetation was influenced by three decades of intensive urbanization in China is of great interest but rarely studied. In this paper, we used satellite derived Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and socioeconomic data to evaluate effects of urbanization on vegetation cover in China's 117 metropolises over the last three decades. Our results suggest that current urbanization has caused deterioration of urban vegetation across most cities in China, particularly in East China. At the national scale, average urban area NDVI (NDVI(u)) significantly decreased during the last three decades (P < 0.01), and two distinct periods with different trends can be identified, 1982-1990 and 1990-2006. NDVI(u) did not show statistically significant trend before 1990 but decrease remarkably after 1990 (P < 0.01). Different regions also showed difference in the timing of NDVI(u) turning point. The year when NDVI(u) started to decline significantly for Central China and East China was 1987 and 1990, respectively, while NDVI(u) in West China remained relatively constant until 1998. NDVI(u) changes in the Yangtze River Delta and the Pearl River Delta, two regions which has been undergoing the most rapid urbanization in China, also show different characteristics. The Pearl River Delta experienced a rapid decline in NDVI(u) from the early 1980s to the mid-1990s; while in the Yangtze River Delta, NDVI(u) did not decline significantly until the early 1990s. Such different patterns of NDVI(u) changes are closely linked with policy-oriented difference in urbanization dynamics of these regions, which highlights the importance of implementing a sustainable urban development policy.

Periodontal disease and percentage of calories from fat using national data.

PubMed

Hamasaki, T; Kitamura, M; Kawashita, Y; Ando, Y; Saito, T

2017-02-01

The association between periodontal disease and nutrient intake was examined using linked data from the 2005 National Health and Nutrition Survey, the Comprehensive Survey of Living Conditions and the Survey of Dental Diseases from the same year 'using linked data from the National Health and Nutrition Survey, the Comprehensive Survey of Living Conditions and the Survey of Dental Diseases, all from 2005'. There has been increasing focus on the importance of nutritional factors in disease in recent years, but very few studies in Japan have looked at the association between periodontal disease and nutrients. Therefore, in the present study we investigated factors associated with periodontal disease, particularly in terms of nutrient intake. Data from 3043 individuals, ≥ 20 years of age (the original study sample comprised 4873 individuals, but those younger than 20 years of age and pregnant women were excluded from the present study) were compiled from linked responses to these three surveys from the same year. Permission to use the data was obtained from the Lifestyle-Related Diseases Control General Affairs Division of the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare, Japan. Information including basic attributes, family structure, economic status, physical condition, lifestyle habits, diet, dental habits, blood data, intake of foods (including the categories of food) and nutrient-related information were obtained from the linked data. The individual maximum Community Periodontal Index (CPI) was used as an index of periodontal disease. Subjects were divided, according to maximum CPI, into groups in which CPI = 0-2 or CPI = 3-4, and associations between CPI and basic attributes, family structure, economic status, physical condition, lifestyle habits, diet, blood data and food intake were analyzed. Multivariate analysis revealed that the percentage of calories from fat was a nutrient factor associated with periodontal disease, with the percentage of calories from fat being significantly lower in the group with advanced periodontal disease. The results suggest that a low-fat, high-carbohydrate diet is related to periodontal disease. A more detailed analysis of this topic will be conducted in the future using different indices of periodontal disease. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Striatal Distribution and Cytoarchitecture of Dopamine Receptor Subtype 1 and 2: Evidence from Double-Labeling Transgenic Mice

PubMed Central

Ren, Keke; Guo, Baolin; Dai, Chunqiu; Yao, Han; Sun, Tangna; Liu, Xia; Bai, Zhantao; Wang, Wenting; Wu, Shengxi

2017-01-01

As the main input nucleus of the basal ganglion, the striatum executes different functions, including motivation, reward and attention. The functions of the striatum highly rely on its subregions that receive projections from various cortical areas and the distribution of striatonigral neurons that express D1 dopamine (DA) receptors (or D1 medium-sized spiny neurons, D1 MSNs) and striatopallidal neurons that express D2 DA receptors (or D2 MSNs). Using bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) transgenic mice, several studies have recently been performed on the spatial distribution of D1 and D2 MSNs. However, these studies mainly focused on enumeration of either D1-enhanced fluorescent protein (eGFP) or D2-eGFP in mice. In the present work, we used Drd1a-tdTamato and Drd2-eGFP double BAC transgenic mice to evaluate the spatial pattern of D1 MSNs (red fluorescence) and D2 MSNs (green fluorescence) along the rostro-caudal axis of the dorsal striatum. The dorsal striatum was divided into three subregions: rostral caudoputamen (CPr), intermediate CP (CPi), and caudal CP (CPc) across the rostral–caudal extent of the striatum. The results demonstrate that D1 and D2 MSNs were intermingled with each other in most of these regions. The cell density of D1 MSNs was slightly higher than D2 MSNs through CPr, CPi, and CPc, though it did not reach significance. However, in CPi, the ratio of D1/D2 in the ventromedial CPi group was significantly higher than those in dorsolateral, dorsomedial, and ventrolateral CPi. There was similar proportion of cells that co-expressed D1 and D2 receptors. Moreover, we demonstrated a pathway-specific activation pattern of D1 MSNs and D2 MSNs in a manic like mouse model induced by D-Amphetamine by utilizing this double transgenic mice and c-fos immunoreactivity. Our results may provide a morphological basis for the function or pathophysiology of striatonigral and striatopallidal neurons with diverse cortical inputs to the dorsal striatum. PMID:28860974

Environmental quality indicators and financial development in Malaysia: unity in diversity.

PubMed

Alam, Arif; Azam, Muhammad; Abdullah, Alias Bin; Malik, Ihtisham Abdul; Khan, Anwar; Hamzah, Tengku Adeline Adura Tengku; Faridullah; Khan, Muhammad Mushtaq; Zahoor, Hina; Zaman, Khalid

2015-06-01

Environmental quality indicators are crucial for responsive and cost-effective policies. The objective of the study is to examine the relationship between environmental quality indicators and financial development in Malaysia. For this purpose, the number of environmental quality indicators has been used, i.e., air pollution measured by carbon dioxide emissions, population density per square kilometer of land area, agricultural production measured by cereal production and livestock production, and energy resources considered by energy use and fossil fuel energy consumption, which placed an impact on the financial development of the country. The study used four main financial indicators, i.e., broad money supply (M2), domestic credit provided by the financial sector (DCFS), domestic credit to the private sector (DCPC), and inflation (CPI), which each financial indicator separately estimated with the environmental quality indicators, over a period of 1975-2013. The study used the generalized method of moments (GMM) technique to minimize the simultaneity from the model. The results show that carbon dioxide emissions exert the positive correlation with the M2, DCFC, and DCPC, while there is a negative correlation with the CPI. However, these results have been evaporated from the GMM estimates, where carbon emissions have no significant relationship with any of the four financial indicators in Malaysia. The GMM results show that population density has a negative relationship with the all four financial indicators; however, in case of M2, this relationship is insignificant to explain their result. Cereal production has a positive relationship with the DCPC, while there is a negative relationship with the CPI. Livestock production exerts the positive relationship with the all four financial indicators; however, this relationship with the CPI has a more elastic relationship, while the remaining relationship is less elastic with the three financial indicators in a country. Energy resources comprise energy use and fossil fuel energy consumption, both have distinct results with the financial indicators, as energy demand have a positive and significant relationship with the DCFC, DCPC, and CPI, while fossil fuel energy consumption have a negative relationship with these three financial indicators. The results of the study are of value to both environmentalists and policy makers.

Duration of serological response to canine parvovirus-type 2, canine distemper virus, canine adenovirus type 1 and canine parainfluenza virus in client-owned dogs in Australia.

PubMed

Mitchell, S A; Zwijnenberg, R J; Huang, J; Hodge, A; Day, M J

2012-12-01

To determine whether client-owned dogs in Australia, last vaccinated with Canvac(®) vaccines containing canine parvovirus-type 2 (CPV-2), canine distemper virus (CDV), canine adenovirus type 2 (CAV-2) ± canine parainfluenza virus (CPiV) at least 18 months ago, were seropositive or responded serologically to revaccination. A total of 235 dogs were recruited from 23 veterinary clinics, representing a variety of breeds, ages and time since last vaccination (TSLV: range 1.5-9 years, mean 2.8 years). Dogs had a blood sample taken and were revaccinated on day 0. A second blood sample was taken 7-14 days later. Blood samples were assessed for antibody titres to CPV-2 (by haemagglutination inhibition) and CDV, CAV type 1 (CAV-1) and CPiV (by virus neutralisation). Dogs with a day 0 titre >10 or a four-fold increase in titre following revaccination were considered to be serological responders. The overall percentage of dogs classified as serological responders was 98.7% for CPV-2, 96.6% for CDV, 99.6% for CAV-1 and 90.3% for CPiV. These results suggest that the duration of serological response induced by modified-live vaccines against CPV-2, CDV, CAV-1 and CPiV, including Canvac(®) vaccines, is beyond 18 months and may extend up to 9 years. Accordingly, these vaccines may be considered for use in extended revaccination interval protocols as recommended by current canine vaccine guidelines. © 2012 The Authors. Australian Veterinary Journal © 2012 Australian Veterinary Association.

Generation of dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) inhibitory peptides during the enzymatic hydrolysis of tropical banded cricket (Gryllodes sigillatus) proteins.

PubMed

Nongonierma, Alice B; Lamoureux, Candice; FitzGerald, Richard J

2018-01-24

Tropical banded crickets (Gryllodes sigillatus) were studied for their ability to yield hydrolysates with dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) inhibitory properties. A cricket protein isolate (CPI) was prepared following extraction of the water soluble proteins from G. sigillatus powder (CP). The extraction yield and purity were 20.90 ± 0.35% and 57.0 ± 2.23%, respectively. Endogenous proteinase activities were detected in the CP, which were linked to the significant protein breakdown seen in this sample. Fifteen CPI hydrolysates (H1-H15) were generated with Protamex™ using a design of experiments (DOE) approach combining three parameters, temperature (40, 50 and 60 °C), enzyme to substrate ratio (E : S, 0.50, 1.25 and 2.00% (w/w)) and hydrolysis time (60, 150 and 240 min). The DPP-IV half maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC 50 ) of the CPI hydrolysates ranged from 0.40 ± 0.03/0.40 ± 0.02 (H2/H3) to 1.01 ± 0.07 mg mL -1 (H7). Following simulated gastrointestinal digestion (SGID), the DPP-IV IC 50 of CPI decreased (>3.57 vs. 0.78 ± 0.04 mg mL -1 ) while that of H5 increased (0.47 ± 0.03 vs. 0.71 ± 0.06 mg mL -1 ). This study has demonstrated for the first time that G. sigillatus protein hydrolysates are able to inhibit DPP-IV. The study of these hydrolysates in vivo is needed to evaluate their potential role in glycaemic management.

PD-1 and PD-L1 inhibitors after platinum-based chemotherapy or in first-line therapy in cisplatin-ineligible patients: Dramatic improvement of prognosis and overall survival after decades of hopelessness in patients with metastatic urothelial cancer.

PubMed

Resch, Irene; Shariat, Shahrokh F; Gust, Kilian M

2018-01-01

Until recently, there were no true innovations in the management of locally advanced (aUC) and metastatic urothelial cancer (mUC) in the last three decades. Vinflunine has been approved by the EMA (European Medicines Agency) with only limited improvement compared to best supportive care in second line treatment. In addition, gemcitabine/cisplatin has been established as an alternative to methotrexate, vinblastine, doxorubicin, and cisplatin (MVAC). The advent of checkpoint inhibitors (CPI) revolutionized the care of these patients, transforming a unanimously deadly disease into one with hope through sustained disease control. Five immune CPI have recently been approved for aUC/mUC by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) including atezolizumab, nivolumab, pembrolizumab, durvalumab and avelumab. All five CPI are FDA-approved as second-line therapy with atezolizumab and pembrolizumab also being approved for first-line therapy in cisplatin-ineligible patients. The rapid acceptance in the treatment algorithm of UC is based on the impressive clinical efficacy of these agents in some patients, combined with their excellent safety profile. These new agents are indeed the most important advancement in UC care. However, the challenge in the age of precision medicine is to identify the patients who are most likely to benefit from CPIs, as the majority of patients do not respond to CPI. Toward this goal, validation of clinical, molecular and imaging biomarkers that serve for prediction and monitoring of treatment response are of central necessity.

NRVS and EPR Spectroscopy of 57Fe-enriched [FeFe] Hydrogenase Indicate Stepwise Assembly of the H-cluster†

PubMed Central

Kuchenreuther, Jon M.; Guo, Yisong; Wang, Hongxin; Myers, William K.; George, Simon J.; Boyke, Christine A.; Yoda, Yoshitaka; Alp, E. Ercan; Zhao, Jiyong; Britt, R. David; Swartz, James R.; Cramer, Stephen P.

2013-01-01

The [FeFe] hydrogenase from Clostridium pasteurianum (CpI) harbors four Fe–S clusters that facilitate electron transfer to the H-cluster, a ligand-coordinated six-iron prosthetic group that catalyzes the redox interconversion of protons and H2. Here, we have used 57Fe nuclear resonance vibrational spectroscopy (NRVS) to study the iron centers in CpI, and we compare our data to that for a [4Fe–4S] ferredoxin as well as a model complex resembling the [2Fe]H catalytic domain of the H-cluster. In order to enrich the hydrogenase with 57Fe nuclei, we used cell-free methods to post-translationally mature the enzyme. Specifically, inactive CpI apoprotein with 56Fe-labeled Fe–S clusters was activated in vitro using 57Fe-enriched maturation proteins. This approach enabled us to selectively label the [2Fe]H subcluster with 57Fe, which NRVS confirms by detecting 57Fe–CO and 57Fe–CN normal modes from the H-cluster nonprotein ligands. The NRVS and iron quantification results also suggest that the hydrogenase contains a second 57Fe–S cluster. EPR spectroscopy indicates that this 57Fe-enriched metal center is not the [4Fe– 4S]H subcluster of the H-cluster. This finding demonstrates that the CpI hydrogenase retained an 56Fe-enriched [4Fe–4S]H cluster during in vitro maturation, providing unambiguous evidence for stepwise assembly of the H-cluster. In addition, this work represents the first NRVS characterization of [FeFe] hydrogenases. PMID:23249091

Automated Quantitative Computed Tomography Versus Visual Computed Tomography Scoring in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: Validation Against Pulmonary Function.

PubMed

Jacob, Joseph; Bartholmai, Brian J; Rajagopalan, Srinivasan; Kokosi, Maria; Nair, Arjun; Karwoski, Ronald; Raghunath, Sushravya M; Walsh, Simon L F; Wells, Athol U; Hansell, David M

2016-09-01

The aim of the study was to determine whether a novel computed tomography (CT) postprocessing software technique (CALIPER) is superior to visual CT scoring as judged by functional correlations in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). A total of 283 consecutive patients with IPF had CT parenchymal patterns evaluated quantitatively with CALIPER and by visual scoring. These 2 techniques were evaluated against: forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLco), carbon monoxide transfer coefficient (Kco), and a composite physiological index (CPI), with regard to extent of interstitial lung disease (ILD), extent of emphysema, and pulmonary vascular abnormalities. CALIPER-derived estimates of ILD extent demonstrated stronger univariate correlations than visual scores for most pulmonary function tests (PFTs): (FEV1: CALIPER R=0.29, visual R=0.18; FVC: CALIPER R=0.41, visual R=0.27; DLco: CALIPER R=0.31, visual R=0.35; CPI: CALIPER R=0.48, visual R=0.44). Correlations between CT measures of emphysema extent and PFTs were weak and did not differ significantly between CALIPER and visual scoring. Intriguingly, the pulmonary vessel volume provided similar correlations to total ILD extent scored by CALIPER for FVC, DLco, and CPI (FVC: R=0.45; DLco: R=0.34; CPI: R=0.53). CALIPER was superior to visual scoring as validated by functional correlations with PFTs. The pulmonary vessel volume, a novel CALIPER CT parameter with no visual scoring equivalent, has the potential to be a CT feature in the assessment of patients with IPF and requires further exploration.

Associations Between Periodontitis and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: The 2010 to 2012 Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

PubMed

Chung, Jae Ho; Hwang, Hee-Jin; Kim, Sun-Hyun; Kim, Tae Ho

2016-08-01

The aim of this study is to examine whether oral hygiene and self-care, particularly in periodontal health, are associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in the Korean population. Data from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2010 to 2012 were used to assess the community periodontal index (CPI) of 5,878 participants (normal lung function: n = 5,181; obstructive spirometric pattern: n = 697) aged ≥40 years, who underwent spirometry. Participants with COPD brushed their teeth less frequently and used the following less frequently: 1) dental floss and/or interdental brush; 2) mouthwash; and 3) electric toothbrush (P <0.001). Prevalence of periodontitis in patients with COPD (58.1%) was significantly higher than in those without COPD (34.0%, P <0.001). Number of teeth was significantly lower in patients with COPD compared with controls. Decayed-missing-filled tooth index was significantly lower in patients with COPD. This study shows risk of COPD by periodontal severity. Periodontitis (CPI 3 and 4) was associated in males with COPD after adjustment for: 1) age; 2) income; 3) education; 4) smoking; 5) alcohol consumption; 6) exercise; 7) body mass index; 8) toothbrushing frequency; 9) diabetes mellitus; and 10) number of teeth (CPI 3: relative risk [RR] = 1.38, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.12 to 2.05; CPI 4: RR = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.06 to 1.56). Findings of this cross-sectional study suggest that COPD in males may be associated with severe periodontitis and indicates the importance of promoting dental care in patients with COPD.

Mediators of a smoking cessation intervention for persons living with HIV/AIDS

PubMed Central

Vidrine, Damon J.; Kypriotakis, George; Li, Liang; Arduino, Roberto C.; Fletcher, Faith E.; Tamí-Maury, Irene; Gritz, Ellen R.

2015-01-01

Background Cigarette smoking among persons living with HIV (PLWH) is a pressing public health concern, and efforts to evaluate cessation treatments are needed. The purpose of the present study was to assess potential mechanisms of a cell phone-delivered intervention for HIV-positive smokers. Methods Data from 350 PLWH enrolled in a randomized smoking cessation treatment trial were utilized. Participants were randomized to either usual care (UC) or a cell phone intervention (CPI) group. The independent variable of interest was treatment group membership, while the dependent variable of interest was smoking abstinence at a 3-month follow-up. The hypothesized treatment mechanisms were depression, anxiety, social support, quit motivation and self-efficacy change scores. Results Abstinence rates in the UC and CPI groups were 4.7% (8 of 172) and 15.7% (28 of 178), respectively. The CPI group (vs. UC) experienced a larger decline in depression between baseline and the 3-month follow-up, and a decline in anxiety. Self-efficacy increased for the CPI group and declined for the UC group. Quit motivation and social support change scores did not differ by treatment group. Only self-efficacy met the predefined criteria for mediation. The effect of the cell phone intervention on smoking abstinence through change in self-efficacy was statistically significant (p<.001) and accounted for 17% of the total effect of the intervention on abstinence. Conclusions The findings further emphasize the important mechanistic function of self-efficacy in promoting smoking cessation for PLWH. Additional efforts are required to disentangle the relationships between emotional, distress motivation, and efficacious smoking cessation treatment. PMID:25542824

Thread mapping using system-level model for shared memory multicores

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mitra, Reshmi

Exploring thread-to-core mapping options for a parallel application on a multicore architecture is computationally very expensive. For the same algorithm, the mapping strategy (MS) with the best response time may change with data size and thread counts. The primary challenge is to design a fast, accurate and automatic framework for exploring these MSs for large data-intensive applications. This is to ensure that the users can explore the design space within reasonable machine hours, without thorough understanding on how the code interacts with the platform. Response time is related to the cycles per instructions retired (CPI), taking into account both active and sleep states of the pipeline. This work establishes a hybrid approach, based on Markov Chain Model (MCM) and Model Tree (MT) for system-level steady state CPI prediction. It is designed for shared memory multicore processors with coarse-grained multithreading. The thread status is represented by the MCM states. The program characteristics are modeled as the transition probabilities, representing the system moving between active and suspended thread states. The MT model extrapolates these probabilities for the actual application size (AS) from the smaller AS performance. This aspect of the framework, along with, the use of mathematical expressions for the actual AS performance information, results in a tremendous reduction in the CPI prediction time. The framework is validated using an electromagnetics application. The average performance prediction error for steady state CPI results with 12 different MSs is less than 1%. The total run time of model is of the order of minutes, whereas the actual application execution time is in terms of days.

Risk models for mortality following elective open and endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair: a single institution experience.

PubMed

Choke, E; Lee, K; McCarthy, M; Nasim, A; Naylor, A R; Bown, M; Sayers, R

2012-12-01

To develop and validate an "in house" risk model for predicting perioperative mortality following elective AAA repair and to compare this with other models. Multivariate logistics regression analysis was used to identify risk factors for perioperative-day mortality from one tertiary institution's prospectively maintained database. Consecutive elective open (564) and endovascular (589) AAA repairs (2000-2010) were split randomly into development (810) and validation (343) data sets. The resultant model was compared to Glasgow Aneurysm Score (GAS), Modified Customised Probability Index (m-CPI), CPI, the Vascular Governance North West (VGNW) model and the Medicare model. Variables associated with perioperative mortality included: increasing age (P = 0.034), myocardial infarct within last 10 years (P = 0.0008), raised serum creatinine (P = 0.005) and open surgery (P = 0.0001). The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) for predicted probability of 30-day mortality in development and validation data sets were 0.79 and 0.82 respectively. AUCs for GAS, m-CPI and CPI were poor (0.63, 0.58 and 0.58 respectively), whilst VGNW and Medicare model were fair (0.73 and 0.79 respectively). In this study, an "in-house" developed and validated risk model has the most accurate discriminative value in predicting perioperative mortality after elective AAA repair. For purposes of comparative audit with case mix adjustments, national models such as the VGNW or Medicare models should be used. Copyright © 2012 European Society for Vascular Surgery. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Federal microcomputer software for urban hydrology

USGS Publications Warehouse

Jennings, Marshall E.; Smith, Roger H.; Jennings, Ross B.

1988-01-01

The purpose of this paper is to describe the development, availability, and general use of selected urban hydrology microcomputer software developed by: U.S. Soil Conservation Service (SCS); U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Hydrologic Engineering Center (HEC); U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); and U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The discussion is limited to software used for design and planning for urban stormwater flows.

Evaluating an online pharmaceutical education system for pharmacy interns in critical care settings.

PubMed

Yeh, Yu-Ting; Chen, Hsiang-Yin; Cheng, Kuei-Ju; Hou, Ssu-An; Yen, Yu-Hsuan; Liu, Chien-Tsai

2014-02-01

Incorporating electronic learning (eLearning) system into professional experimental programs such as pharmacy internships is a challenge. However, none of the current systems can fully support the unique needs of clinical pharmacy internship. In this study we enhanced a commercial eLearning system for clinical pharmacy internship (The Clinical Pharmacy Internship eLearning System, CPIES). The KAP questionnaire was used to evaluate the performance of group A with the traditional teaching model and group B with the CPIES teaching model. The CPIES teaching model showed significant improvement in interns' knowledge and practice (p = 0.002 and 0.031, respectively). The traditional teaching model only demonstrated significant improvement in practice (p = 0.011). Moreover, professionalism, such as attitudes on cooperating with other health professionals, is developed by learning from a good mentor. The on-line teaching and traditional teaching methods should undoubtedly be blended in a complete teaching model in order to improve learners' professional knowledge, facilitate correct attitude, and influence good practice. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

The protective effect of infliximab on cisplatin-induced intestinal tissue toxicity.

PubMed

Aydin, I; Kalkan, Y; Ozer, E; Yucel, A F; Pergel, A; Cure, E; Cure, M C; Sahin, D A

2014-01-01

Cisplatin (CP) is a popular chemotherapeutic agent. However, high doses of CP may lead to severe side effects to the gastrointestinal system. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effects of infliximab on small intestine injury induced by high doses of CP. The A total of 30 rats were equally divided into three groups, including sham (C), cisplatin (CP), and cisplatin + infliximab (CPI). The CP group was treated with 7 mg/kg intraperitoneal cisplatin, and a laparotomy was performed 5 days later. The CPI group received 7 mg/kg infliximab intraperitoneally, were administered 7 mg/kg cisplatin 4 days later, and a laparotomy was performed 5 days after receiving cisplatin. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analysis of small intestine tissue sections were performed, and superoxide dismutase, malondialdehyde, and TNF-α levels were measured. Histopathological evaluation revealed that the CP group had damage in the epithelium and connective tissue, but this damage was significantly improved in the CPI group (p < 0.05). In addition, these histopathological findings were confirmed by biochemical analyses. These results suggest that infliximab is protective against the adverse effects of CP.

31 CFR Appendix D to Part 356 - Description of the Consumer Price Index

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 31 Money and Finance: Treasury 2 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Description of the Consumer Price.... 1-93) Pt. 356, App. D Appendix D to Part 356—Description of the Consumer Price Index The Consumer.... City Average All Items Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers. It is published monthly by the...

31 CFR Appendix D to Part 356 - Description of the Consumer Price Index

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 31 Money and Finance:Treasury 2 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Description of the Consumer Price.... 1-93) Pt. 356, App. D Appendix D to Part 356—Description of the Consumer Price Index The Consumer.... City Average All Items Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers. It is published monthly by the...

Disparities in dietary intake and physical activity patterns across the urbanization divide in the Peruvian Andes.

PubMed

McCloskey, Morgan L; Tarazona-Meza, Carla E; Jones-Smith, Jessica C; Miele, Catherine H; Gilman, Robert H; Bernabe-Ortiz, Antonio; Miranda, J Jaime; Checkley, William

2017-07-11

Diet and activity are thought to worsen with urbanization, thereby increasing risk of obesity and chronic diseases. A better understanding of dietary and activity patterns across the urbanization divide may help identify pathways, and therefore intervention targets, leading to the epidemic of overweight seen in low- and middle-income populations. Therefore, we sought to characterize diet and activity in a population-based study of urban and rural residents in Puno, Peru. We compared diet and activity in 1005 (503 urban, 502 rural) participants via a lifestyle questionnaire. We then recruited an age- and sex-stratified random sample of 50 (25 urban, 25 rural) participants to further characterize diet and activity. Among these participants, diet composition and macronutrient intake was assessed by three non-consecutive 24-h dietary recalls and physical activity was assessed using Omron JH-720itc pedometers. Among 1005 participants, we found that urban residents consumed protein-rich foods, refined grains, sugary items, and fresh produce more frequently than rural residents. Among the 50 subsample participants, urban dwellers consumed more protein (47 vs. 39 g; p = 0.05), more carbohydrates (280 vs. 220 g; p = 0.03), more sugary foods (98 vs. 48 g, p = 0.02) and had greater dietary diversity (6.4 vs 5.8; p = 0.04). Rural subsample participants consumed more added salt (3.1 vs 1.7 g, p = 0.006) and tended to consume more vegetable oil. As estimated by pedometers, urban subsample participants burned fewer calories per day (191 vs 270 kcal, p = 0.03). Although urbanization is typically thought to increase consumption of fat, sugar and salt, our 24-h recall results were mixed and showed lower levels of obesity in rural Puno were not necessarily indicative of nutritionally-balanced diets. All subsample participants had relatively traditional lifestyles (low fat intake, limited consumption of processed foods and frequent walking) that may play a role in chronic disease outcomes in this region.

Rare earth elements and select actinoids in the Canadian House Dust Study.

PubMed

Rasmussen, P E; Levesque, C; Chénier, M; Gardner, H D

2017-09-01

Nationally representative baseline data are presented for rare earth elements (REE), thorium (Th) and uranium (U) in house dust sampled from 1025 urban homes, in units of concentrations (μg g -1 ), loadings (μg m -2 ), and loading rates (ng m -2  d -1 ). Spearman rank correlations indicate that, in addition to outdoor sources, consumer products and building materials can influence indoor dust concentrations of REE, Th, and U. Correlations (P<.01) with numbers of occupants, dogs, and cats suggest soil track-in. Correlations (P<.01) with hardwood floors suggest release of REE additives used in pigments and coatings during daily wear and tear. Concentrations of light REE are elevated in smokers' homes compared to non-smokers' homes (P<.001), suggesting that a key source is "mischmetal," the REE alloy used in cigarette-lighter flints. Indoor sources include geological impurities in raw materials used in consumer products, such as U and Th impurities in bentonite clay used in cat litter, and REE impurities in phosphates used for a variety of applications including dog food and building materials. Median gastric bioaccessibility (pH 1.5) of most REE in dust ranges from about 20% to 29%. Household vacuum samples correlate with fresh dust samples from the same homes (P<.001 for all investigated elements). © 2017 Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada Indoor Air © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

24 CFR 3282.402 - General principles.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Consumer Complaint Handling.... (e) It is the policy of these regulations that all consumer complaints or other information... result of normal year and aging, gross and unforeseeable consumer abuse, or unforeseeable neglect of...

24 CFR 3282.402 - General principles.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Consumer Complaint Handling.... (e) It is the policy of these regulations that all consumer complaints or other information... result of normal year and aging, gross and unforeseeable consumer abuse, or unforeseeable neglect of...

24 CFR 3282.402 - General principles.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Consumer Complaint Handling.... (e) It is the policy of these regulations that all consumer complaints or other information... result of normal year and aging, gross and unforeseeable consumer abuse, or unforeseeable neglect of...

Retail growth and consumer changes in a declining urban economy: Antwerp (1650-1750).

PubMed

Blondé, Bruno; van Damme, Ilja

2010-01-01

This article examines the interplay between retail changes and transformations in the material culture of Antwerp, a provincial town in the southern Netherlands. We argue that major changes in the eighteenth-century material culture and retail sector were not significantly linked to preconditions of economic growth and urbanization. The Antwerp 'retail paradox' is that of a shrinking economic horizon running parallel to material culture and retail transformations, usually connected to expanding urban economies and societies. Changing retail and consumer practices explain the growing and prospering retail sector, rather than a growing economy.

Improving energy efficiency in the transportation sector

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

Plotkin, S.E.

1994-12-31

A primary characteristic of transportation in the United States is its high per capita energy consumption. The average US citizen consumes nearly five times as much energy for transportation as the average Japanese and nearly three times as much as the average citizen of France, Britain, or West Germany. The energy efficiency of US transportation has improved substantially over the past two decades (both absolutely and in comparison to Europe), and US travel volume has grown more slowly than in most of the developed world. However, the United States still consumes more than one-third of the world`s transport energy. Also,more » 96 percent of US transport energy is in the form of oil products. This is more oil than the United States produces, despite its position as one of the world`s largest oil producers. With current problems and expectation of continued growth in travel and energy use, Congress has increasingly turned to transportation energy conservation - in the form of improvements in the technical efficiency of travel, increases in load factors, reductions in travel demand, shifting to alternative fuels, and shifts to more efficient travel modes - as an important policy goal. For example, the Clean Air Amendments of 1990 incorporate transportation demand management as a critical tool in reducing urban air pollution. Legislation proposed in the 102d Congress sought rigorous new automobile and light truck fuel economy standards. With continued increases in U.S. oil imports, urban traffic congestion, and greenhouse gas emissions, and the failure of many urban areas to meet air quality standards, strong congressional interest in new energy conservation initiates is likely to continue.« less

Increased salivary oxidative stress parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes: Relation with periodontal disease.

PubMed

Arana, Carlos; Moreno-Fernández, Ana María; Gómez-Moreno, Gerardo; Morales-Portillo, Cristóbal; Serrano-Olmedo, Isabel; de la Cuesta Mayor, M Carmen; Martín Hernández, Tomás

2017-05-01

The aim of this study was to determine whether there are differences in salivary oxidative stress between patients with diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM2) and healthy non-diabetic patients, and whether this oxidative stress is associated with the presence of periodontal disease in diabetic patients. This observational study included 70 patients divided into three groups according to metabolic control levels: 19 non-diabetic patients (control group); 24 patients with good metabolic control (HbA1c<7%), and 27 patients DM2 with poor metabolic control (HbA1c>7%). The following oxidative stress parameters were measured in all subjects: glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GRd), reduced glutathione (GSH) and oxidized glutathione (GSSG). Periodontal health was determined by means of the community periodontal index (CPI) recommended by the WHO. The diabetic group with good metabolic control showed a significant increase in GPx and GRd activity in comparison with the control group (P<.001). The activity of the enzymes measured was significantly less in patients with poor metabolic control in comparison with the control group and well-controlled diabetic groups (P<.001). Both diabetic groups showed higher GSSG/GSH quotients and CPI in comparison with the control group, and both parameters were significantly higher in diabetic patients with poor metabolic control in comparison with well-controlled diabetic patients. Poor metabolic control in DM2 patients is associated with higher levels of salivary oxidative stress and worse periodontal health. Copyright © 2017 SEEN. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of forensic DNA mixture evidence: protocol for evaluation, interpretation, and statistical calculations using the combined probability of inclusion.

PubMed

Bieber, Frederick R; Buckleton, John S; Budowle, Bruce; Butler, John M; Coble, Michael D

2016-08-31

The evaluation and interpretation of forensic DNA mixture evidence faces greater interpretational challenges due to increasingly complex mixture evidence. Such challenges include: casework involving low quantity or degraded evidence leading to allele and locus dropout; allele sharing of contributors leading to allele stacking; and differentiation of PCR stutter artifacts from true alleles. There is variation in statistical approaches used to evaluate the strength of the evidence when inclusion of a specific known individual(s) is determined, and the approaches used must be supportable. There are concerns that methods utilized for interpretation of complex forensic DNA mixtures may not be implemented properly in some casework. Similar questions are being raised in a number of U.S. jurisdictions, leading to some confusion about mixture interpretation for current and previous casework. Key elements necessary for the interpretation and statistical evaluation of forensic DNA mixtures are described. Given the most common method for statistical evaluation of DNA mixtures in many parts of the world, including the USA, is the Combined Probability of Inclusion/Exclusion (CPI/CPE). Exposition and elucidation of this method and a protocol for use is the focus of this article. Formulae and other supporting materials are provided. Guidance and details of a DNA mixture interpretation protocol is provided for application of the CPI/CPE method in the analysis of more complex forensic DNA mixtures. This description, in turn, should help reduce the variability of interpretation with application of this methodology and thereby improve the quality of DNA mixture interpretation throughout the forensic community.

Interactions of a potent cyclic peptide inhibitor with the light chain of botulinum neurotoxin A: Insights from X-ray crystallography.

PubMed

Kumaran, Desigan; Adler, Michael; Levit, Matthew; Krebs, Michael; Sweeney, Richard; Swaminathan, Subramanyam

2015-11-15

The seven antigenically distinct serotypes (A-G) of botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) are responsible for the deadly disease botulism. BoNT serotype A (BoNT/A) exerts its lethal action by cleaving the SNARE protein SNAP-25, leading to inhibition of neurotransmitter release, flaccid paralysis and autonomic dysfunction. BoNTs are dichain proteins consisting of a ∼ 100 kDa heavy chain and a ∼ 50 kDa light chain; the former is responsible for neurospecific binding, internalization and translocation, and the latter for cleavage of neuronal SNARE proteins. Because of their extreme toxicity and history of weaponization, the BoNTs are regarded as potential biowarfare/bioterrorism agents. No post-symptomatic therapeutic interventions are available for BoNT intoxication other than intensive care; therefore it is imperative to develop specific antidotes against this neurotoxin. To this end, a cyclic peptide inhibitor (CPI-1) was evaluated in a FRET assay for its ability to inhibit BoNT/A light chain (Balc). CPI was found to be highly potent, exhibiting a Ki of 12.3 nM with full-length Balc448 and 39.2 nM using a truncated crystallizable form of the light chain (Balc424). Cocrystallization studies revealed that in the Balc424-CPI-1 complex, the inhibitor adopts a helical conformation, occupies a high percentage of the active site cavity and interacts in an amphipathic manner with critical active site residues. The data suggest that CPI-1 prevents SNAP-25 from accessing the Balc active site by blocking both the substrate binding path at the surface and the Zn(2+) binding region involved in catalysis. This differs from linear peptide inhibitors described to date which block only the latter. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Trichomonas vaginalis Lipophosphoglycan Exploits Binding to Galectin-1 and -3 to Modulate Epithelial Immunity*

PubMed Central

Fichorova, Raina N.; Yamamoto, Hidemi S.; Fashemi, Titilayo; Foley, Evan; Ryan, Stanthia; Beatty, Noah; Dawood, Hassan; Hayes, Gary R.; St-Pierre, Guillaume; Sato, Sachiko; Singh, Bibhuti N.

2016-01-01

Trichomoniasis is the most common non-viral sexually transmitted infection caused by the vaginotropic extracellular protozoan parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. The infection is recurrent, with no lasting immunity, often asymptomatic, and linked to pregnancy complications and risk of viral infection. The molecular mechanisms of immune evasion by the parasite are poorly understood. We demonstrate that galectin-1 and -3 are expressed by the human cervical and vaginal epithelial cells and act as pathogen-recognition receptors for the ceramide phosphoinositol glycan core (CPI-GC) of the dominant surface protozoan lipophosphoglycan (LPG). We used an in vitro model with siRNA galectin knockdown epithelial clones, recombinant galectins, clinical Trichomonas isolates, and mutant protozoan derivatives to dissect the function of galectin-1 and -3 in the context of Trichomonas infection. Galectin-1 suppressed chemokines that facilitate recruitment of phagocytes, which can eliminate extracellular protozoa (IL-8) or bridge innate to adaptive immunity (MIP-3α and RANTES (regulated on activation normal T cell expressed and secreted)). Silencing galectin-1 increased and adding exogenous galectin-1 suppressed chemokine responses to Trichomonas or CPI-GC/LPG. In contrast, silencing galectin-3 reduced IL-8 response to LPG. Live Trichomonas depleted the extracellular levels of galectin-3. Clinical isolates and mutant Trichomonas CPI-GC that had reduced affinity to galectin-3 but maintained affinity to galectin-1 suppressed chemokine expression. Thus via CPI-GC binding, Trichomonas is capable of regulating galectin bioavailability and function to the benefit of its parasitic survival. These findings suggest novel approaches to control trichomoniasis and warrant further studies of galectin-binding diversity among clinical isolates as a possible source for symptom disparity in parasitic infections. PMID:26589797

Efficacy of cell phone-delivered smoking cessation counseling for persons living with HIV/AIDS: 3-month outcomes.

PubMed

Vidrine, Damon J; Marks, Rachel M; Arduino, Roberto C; Gritz, Ellen R

2012-01-01

Substantial evidence indicates that cigarette smoking among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) represents a significant public health concern. However, few efforts to assess smoking cessation interventions targeting this population have been reported. In this brief report, 3-month outcomes from an ongoing treatment trial for PLWHA who smoke are described. Study participants were recruited from a large HIV care center serving a diverse population of PLWHA. A two-group randomized design was used to compare the efficacy of usual-care (UC) smoking cessation treatment versus a cell phone intervention (CPI). Follow-ups were conducted at the HIV clinic 3 months postenrollment. Using an intent-to-treat approach, a series of multiple regression models were used to compare smoking outcomes in the 2 groups. Four hundred and seventy-four participants were enrolled and randomized, UC (n = 238) and CPI (n = 236). Mean age in the sample was 44.8 (SD = 8.1) years, and the majority were male (70.0%), Black (76.6%), and had an education level of high school or less (77.5%). At follow-up, participants in the CPI group were 4.3 (95% CI = 1.9, 9.8) times more likely to be abstinent (7 day) compared with those in the UC group. Similarly, significant point estimates were observed for the other smoking outcomes of interest. Findings from this preliminary report indicate that a smoking cessation intervention for PLWHA consisting of cell phone-delivered proactive counseling results in significantly higher abstinence rates compared with a standard care approach. Evaluation of the long-term (6-month and 12-month) efficacy of the CPI approach is ongoing.

Efficacy of Cell Phone–Delivered Smoking Cessation Counseling for Persons Living With HIV/AIDS: 3-Month Outcomes

PubMed Central

Marks, Rachel M.; Arduino, Roberto C.; Gritz, Ellen R.

2012-01-01

Introduction: Substantial evidence indicates that cigarette smoking among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) represents a significant public health concern. However, few efforts to assess smoking cessation interventions targeting this population have been reported. In this brief report, 3-month outcomes from an ongoing treatment trial for PLWHA who smoke are described. Methods: Study participants were recruited from a large HIV care center serving a diverse population of PLWHA. A two-group randomized design was used to compare the efficacy of usual-care (UC) smoking cessation treatment versus a cell phone intervention (CPI). Follow-ups were conducted at the HIV clinic 3 months postenrollment. Using an intent-to-treat approach, a series of multiple regression models were used to compare smoking outcomes in the 2 groups. Results: Four hundred and seventy-four participants were enrolled and randomized, UC (n = 238) and CPI (n = 236). Mean age in the sample was 44.8 (SD = 8.1) years, and the majority were male (70.0%), Black (76.6%), and had an education level of high school or less (77.5%). At follow-up, participants in the CPI group were 4.3 (95% CI = 1.9, 9.8) times more likely to be abstinent (7 day) compared with those in the UC group. Similarly, significant point estimates were observed for the other smoking outcomes of interest. Conclusions: Findings from this preliminary report indicate that a smoking cessation intervention for PLWHA consisting of cell phone–delivered proactive counseling results in significantly higher abstinence rates compared with a standard care approach. Evaluation of the long-term (6-month and 12-month) efficacy of the CPI approach is ongoing. PMID:21669958

The BET bromodomain inhibitor CPI203 improves lenalidomide and dexamethasone activity in in vitro and in vivo models of multiple myeloma by blockade of Ikaros and MYC signaling

PubMed Central

Díaz, Tania; Rodríguez, Vanina; Lozano, Ester; Mena, Mari-Pau; Calderón, Marcos; Rosiñol, Laura; Martínez, Antonio; Tovar, Natalia; Pérez-Galán, Patricia; Bladé, Joan; Roué, Gaël; de Larrea, Carlos Fernández

2017-01-01

Most patients with multiple myeloma treated with current therapies, including immunomodulatory drugs, eventually develop relapsed/refractory disease. Clinical activity of lenalidomide relies on degradation of Ikaros and the consequent reduction in IRF4 expression, both required for myeloma cell survival and involved in the regulation of MYC transcription. Thus, we sought to determine the combinational effect of an MYC-interfering therapy with lenalidomide/dexamethasone. We analyzed the potential therapeutic effect of the combination of the BET bromodomain inhibitor CPI203 with the lenalidomide/dexamethasone regimen in myeloma cell lines. CPI203 exerted a dose-dependent cell growth inhibition in cell lines, indeed in lenalidomide/dexamethasone-resistant cells (median response at 0.5 μM: 65.4%), characterized by G1 cell cycle blockade and a concomitant inhibition of MYC and Ikaros signaling. These effects were potentiated by the addition of lenalidomide/dexamethasone. Results were validated in primary plasma cells from patients with multiple myeloma co-cultured with the mesenchymal stromal cell line stromaNKtert. Consistently, the drug combination evoked a 50% reduction in cell proliferation and correlated with basal Ikaros mRNA expression levels (P=0.04). Finally, in a SCID mouse xenotransplant model of myeloma, addition of CPI203 to lenalidomide/dexamethasone decreased tumor burden, evidenced by a lower glucose uptake and increase in the growth arrest marker GADD45B, with simultaneous downregulation of key transcription factors such as MYC, Ikaros and IRF4. Taken together, our data show that the combination of a BET bromodomain inhibitor with a lenalidomide-based regimen may represent a therapeutic approach to improve the response in relapsed/refractory patients with multiple myeloma, even in cases with suboptimal prior response to immunomodulatory drugs. PMID:28751557

Pseudoinverse Decoding Process in Delay-Encoded Synthetic Transmit Aperture Imaging.

PubMed

Gong, Ping; Kolios, Michael C; Xu, Yuan

2016-09-01

Recently, we proposed a new method to improve the signal-to-noise ratio of the prebeamformed radio-frequency data in synthetic transmit aperture (STA) imaging: the delay-encoded STA (DE-STA) imaging. In the decoding process of DE-STA, the equivalent STA data were obtained by directly inverting the coding matrix. This is usually regarded as an ill-posed problem, especially under high noise levels. Pseudoinverse (PI) is usually used instead for seeking a more stable inversion process. In this paper, we apply singular value decomposition to the coding matrix to conduct the PI. Our numerical studies demonstrate that the singular values of the coding matrix have a special distribution, i.e., all the values are the same except for the first and last ones. We compare the PI in two cases: complete PI (CPI), where all the singular values are kept, and truncated PI (TPI), where the last and smallest singular value is ignored. The PI (both CPI and TPI) DE-STA processes are tested against noise with both numerical simulations and experiments. The CPI and TPI can restore the signals stably, and the noise mainly affects the prebeamformed signals corresponding to the first transmit channel. The difference in the overall enveloped beamformed image qualities between the CPI and TPI is negligible. Thus, it demonstrates that DE-STA is a relatively stable encoding and decoding technique. Also, according to the special distribution of the singular values of the coding matrix, we propose a new efficient decoding formula that is based on the conjugate transpose of the coding matrix. We also compare the computational complexity of the direct inverse and the new formula.

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24 CFR 17.76 - Disclosure to a consumer reporting agency.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

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24 CFR 17.76 - Disclosure to a consumer reporting agency.

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2011-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Disclosure to a consumer reporting... General Provisions § 17.76 Disclosure to a consumer reporting agency. (a) Definition. For purposes of this... Consumer Reporting Agency information from a system of records to the effect that an individual is...

24 CFR 3282.405 - SAA responsibilities.

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2011-04-01

... URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Consumer Complaint Handling... responsible for overseeing the handling of consumer complaints by manufacturers within the state. As part of...

24 CFR 3282.405 - SAA responsibilities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Consumer Complaint Handling... responsible for overseeing the handling of consumer complaints by manufacturers within the state. As part of...

24 CFR 3282.405 - SAA responsibilities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Consumer Complaint Handling... responsible for overseeing the handling of consumer complaints by manufacturers within the state. As part of...

24 CFR 3282.405 - SAA responsibilities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Consumer Complaint Handling... responsible for overseeing the handling of consumer complaints by manufacturers within the state. As part of...

Preserve America Publications

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Preserve America Community

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Descriptive analysis and U.S. consumer acceptability of 6 green tea samples from China, Japan, and Korea.

PubMed

Lee, Jeehyun; Chambers, Delores H

2010-03-01

In the past, green tea has been one of the least popular nonalcoholic beverages for U.S. consumers. However, green tea has been receiving attention because of its potential health benefits. Knowing which green tea flavor attributes contribute to consumer liking will help the fast growing green tea business including green tea importers, tea shops, and beverage companies to understand which characteristics are most accepted by U.S. consumers. The objectives of this study were (1) to examine differences in acceptability of commonly available loose leaf and bagged green teas available from the major exporters to the U.S. (Japan, Korea, and China) and (2) to determine which green tea flavor characteristics are related to consumers' liking. In the study, consumers from the U.S. evaluated 6 green tea samples from China, Japan, and Korea for acceptability. A highly trained panel also evaluated the green tea samples to provide descriptive sensory attributes that might be related to acceptability. We found that U.S. consumers liked green tea samples with lower flavor intensity and lower bitterness intensity. Consumers' acceptability of green tea was negatively correlated with spinach and animalic flavor and bitterness and astringency of green teas evaluated using descriptive sensory analysis, but the correlation was only moderate. To learn what green tea flavor characteristics influence consumers' liking, future studies using more green tea samples with different flavor profiles are needed.

Impact of the New U.S. Department of Agriculture School Meal Standards on Food Selection, Consumption, and Waste

PubMed Central

Cohen, Juliana F.W.; Richardson, Scott; Parker, Ellen; Catalano, Paul J.; Rimm, Eric B.

2014-01-01

Background The U.S Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently made substantial changes to the school meal standards. The media and public outcry have suggested that this has led to substantially more food waste. Purpose School meal selection, consumption, and waste were assessed before and after implementation of the new school meal standards. Methods Plate waste data was collected in 4 schools in an urban, low-income school district. Logistic regression and mixed-model ANOVA were used to estimate the differences in selection and consumption of school meals before (fall 2011) and after implementation (fall 2012) of the new standards among 1030 elementary and middle school children. Analyses were conducted in 2013. Results After the new standards were implemented, fruit selection increased by 23.0%, and entrée and vegetable selection remained unchanged. Additionally, post-implementation entrée consumption increased by 15.6%, vegetable consumption increased by 16.2%, and fruit consumption remained the same. Milk selection and consumption decreased owing to an unrelated milk policy change. Conclusions While food waste levels were substantial both pre- and post-implementation, the new guidelines have positively impacted school meal selection and consumption. Despite the increased vegetable portion size requirement, consumption increased and led to significantly more cups of vegetables consumed. Significantly more students selected a fruit, while the overall percentage of fruit consumed remained the same, resulting in more students consuming fruits. Contrary to media reports, these results suggest that the new school meal standards have improved students’ overall diet quality. Legislation to weaken the standards is not warranted. PMID:24650841

Preserve America Executive Order

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24 CFR 3282.417 - Recordkeeping requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME PROCEDURAL AND ENFORCEMENT REGULATIONS Consumer Complaint... forwarded the relevant consumer complaint or other information to the manufacturer in accordance with § 3282...

Preserve America Communities and Neighborhoods

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Does topological information matter for power grid vulnerability?

PubMed

Ouyang, Min; Yang, Kun

2014-12-01

Power grids, which are playing an important role in supporting the economy of a region as well as the life of its citizens, could be attacked by terrorists or enemies to damage the region. Depending on different levels of power grid information collected by the terrorists, their attack strategies might be different. This paper groups power grid information into four levels: no information, purely topological information (PTI), topological information with generator and load nodes (GLNI), and full information (including component physical properties and flow parameters information), and then identifies possible attack strategies for each information level. Analyzing and comparing power grid vulnerability under these attack strategies from both terrorists' and utility companies' point of view give rise to an approach to quantify the relative values of these three types of information, including PTI, GLNI, and component parameter information (CPI). This approach can provide information regarding the extent to which topological information matters for power system vulnerability decisions. Taking several test systems as examples, results show that for small attacks with p ≤ 0.1, CPI matters the most; when taking attack cost into consideration and assuming that the terrorists take the optimum cost-efficient attack intensity, then CPI has the largest cost-based information value.

Pressure-sensitive strain sensor based on a single percolated Ag nanowire layer embedded in colorless polyimide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Chan-Jae; Jun, Sungwoo; Ju, Byeong-Kwon; Kim, Jong-Woong

2017-06-01

This paper presents the fabrication of an elastomer-free, transparent, pressure-sensitive strain sensor consisting of a specially designed silver nanowire (AgNW) pattern and colorless polyimide (cPI). A percolated AgNW network was patterned with a simple tandem compound circuit, which was then embedded in the surface of the cPI via inverted layer processing. The resulting film-type sensor was highly transparent ( 93.5% transmittance at 550 nm) and mechanically stable (capable of resisting 10000 cycles of bending to a 500 μm radius of curvature). We demonstrated that a thin, transparent, and mechanically stable electrode can be produced using a combination of AgNWs and cPI, and used to produce a system sensitive to pressure-induced bending. The capacitance of the AgNW tandem compound electrode pattern grew via fringing, which increased with the pressure-induced bending applied to the surface of the sensor. The sensitivity was four times higher than that of an elastomeric pressure sensor made with the same design. Finally, we demonstrated a skin-like pressure sensor attached to the inside wrist of a human arm.

Does topological information matter for power grid vulnerability?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ouyang, Min; Yang, Kun

2014-12-01

Power grids, which are playing an important role in supporting the economy of a region as well as the life of its citizens, could be attacked by terrorists or enemies to damage the region. Depending on different levels of power grid information collected by the terrorists, their attack strategies might be different. This paper groups power grid information into four levels: no information, purely topological information (PTI), topological information with generator and load nodes (GLNI), and full information (including component physical properties and flow parameters information), and then identifies possible attack strategies for each information level. Analyzing and comparing power grid vulnerability under these attack strategies from both terrorists' and utility companies' point of view give rise to an approach to quantify the relative values of these three types of information, including PTI, GLNI, and component parameter information (CPI). This approach can provide information regarding the extent to which topological information matters for power system vulnerability decisions. Taking several test systems as examples, results show that for small attacks with p ≤ 0.1, CPI matters the most; when taking attack cost into consideration and assuming that the terrorists take the optimum cost-efficient attack intensity, then CPI has the largest cost-based information value.

S-adenosyl methionine regulates calcium channels and inhibits uterine smooth muscle contraction in rats with infectious premature delivery through the transient receptor protein 3/protein kinase Cβ/C-kinase-activated protein phosphatase-1 inhibitor of 17 kDa signaling pathway

PubMed Central

Ge, Jing; Han, Tao; Li, Xiaoqiu; Shan, Lili; Zhang, Jinhuan; Hong, Yan; Xia, Yanqiu; Wang, Jun; Hou, Mingxiao

2018-01-01

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of S-adenosyl methionine (SAMe) on infectious premature inflammatory factors and uterine contraction, and to further explore its mechanism of action via the transient receptor protein 3 (TRPC3)/protein kinase Cβ (PKCβ)/C-kinase-activated protein phosphatase-1 inhibitor of 17 kDa (CPI-17) signaling pathway, following intervention by a TRPC3 inhibitor. A rat model of premature delivery induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was established. Following treatment with SAMe and inhibiting TRPC3 expression, rat serum and uterus were isolated. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was used to observe the histopathological changes in the uterus. Uterine muscle strips in vitro were selected to measure the changes in muscle tension. ELISA was utilized to measure the changes in serum inflammatory factor and oxidative stress indexes. Immunohistochemistry, western blot assay and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction were applied to detect calcium channel protein expression in the uterus. Western blot analysis was employed to measure the expression of TRPC3/PKCβ/CPI-17 signaling pathway-related proteins. TRPC3 was highly expressed in the uterus of rat models of premature delivery induced by LPS. Following treatment with SAMe, inflammatory cell infiltration markedly reduced in the uterus and the tension of in vitro uterine muscle strips significantly decreased. SAMe treatment suppressed inflammatory reaction and oxidative stress, and diminished L-type and T-type calcium channel protein expression. TRPC3/PKCβ/CPI-17 signaling pathway-related protein expression was also reduced. When TRPC3 expression was suppressed, the effects of SAMe against inflammation and oxidative stress were diminished. TRPC3/PKCβ/CPI-17 signaling pathway-related protein expression significantly increased. SAMe was able to reduce inflammatory reaction and oxidative stress in the uterus of rat model of infectious premature delivery induced by LPS, prolong delivery time, reduce the mortality rate of offspring rats, and serve a therapeutic role. This effect is likely achieved via the regulation of uterine contractions and childbirth through the TRPC3/PKCβ/CPI-17 signaling pathway. PMID:29896230

Parainfluenza Virus Infection Sensitizes Cancer Cells to DNA-Damaging Agents: Implications for Oncolytic Virus Therapy.

PubMed

Fox, Candace R; Parks, Griffith D

2018-04-01

A parainfluenza virus 5 (PIV5) with mutations in the P/V gene (P/V-CPI - ) is restricted for spread in normal cells but not in cancer cells in vitro and is effective at reducing tumor burdens in mouse model systems. Here we show that P/V-CPI - infection of HEp-2 human laryngeal cancer cells results in the majority of the cells dying, but unexpectedly, over time, there is an emergence of a population of cells that survive as P/V-CPI - persistently infected (PI) cells. P/V-CPI - PI cells had elevated levels of basal caspase activation, and viability was highly dependent on the activity of cellular inhibitor-of-apoptosis proteins (IAPs) such as Survivin and XIAP. In challenge experiments with external inducers of apoptosis, PI cells were more sensitive to cisplatin-induced DNA damage and cell death. This increased cisplatin sensitivity correlated with defects in DNA damage signaling pathways such as phosphorylation of Chk1 and translocation of damage-specific DNA binding protein 1 (DDB1) to the nucleus. Cisplatin-induced killing of PI cells was sensitive to the inhibition of wild-type (WT) p53-inducible protein 1 (WIP1), a phosphatase which acts to terminate DNA damage signaling pathways. A similar sensitivity to cisplatin was seen with cells during acute infection with P/V-CPI - as well as during acute infections with WT PIV5 and the related virus human parainfluenza virus type 2 (hPIV2). Our results have general implications for the design of safer paramyxovirus-based vectors that cannot establish PI as well as the potential for combining chemotherapy with oncolytic RNA virus vectors. IMPORTANCE There is intense interest in developing oncolytic viral vectors with increased potency against cancer cells, particularly those cancer cells that have gained resistance to chemotherapies. We have found that infection with cytoplasmically replicating parainfluenza virus can result in increases in the killing of cancer cells by agents that induce DNA damage, and this is linked to alterations to DNA damage signaling pathways that balance cell survival versus death. Our results have general implications for the design of safer paramyxovirus-based vectors that cannot establish persistent infection, the repurposing of drugs that target cellular IAPs as antivirals, and the combined use of DNA-damaging chemotherapy agents in conjunction with oncolytic RNA virus vectors. Copyright © 2018 American Society for Microbiology.

Video: Mrs. Bush Introduces Preserve America

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National Native American Heritage Month, 2009

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Wild inside: Urban wild boar select natural, not anthropogenic food resources.

PubMed

Stillfried, Milena; Gras, Pierre; Busch, Matthias; Börner, Konstantin; Kramer-Schadt, Stephanie; Ortmann, Sylvia

2017-01-01

Most wildlife species are urban avoiders, but some became urban utilizers and dwellers successfully living in cities. Often, they are assumed to be attracted into urban areas by easily accessible and highly energetic anthropogenic food sources. We macroscopically analysed stomachs of 247 wild boar (Sus scrofa, hereafter WB) from urban areas of Berlin and from the surrounding rural areas. From the stomach contents we determined as predictors of food quality modulus of fineness (MOF,), percentage of acid insoluble ash (AIA) and macronutrients such as amount of energy and percentage of protein, fat, fibre and starch. We run linear mixed models to test: (1) differences in the proportion of landscape variables, (2) differences of nutrients consumed in urban vs. rural WB and (3) the impact of landscape variables on gathered nutrients. We found only few cases of anthropogenic food in the qualitative macroscopic analysis. We categorized the WB into five stomach content categories but found no significant difference in the frequency of those categories between urban and rural WB. The amount of energy was higher in stomachs of urban WB than in rural WB. The analysis of landscape variables revealed that the energy of urban WB increased with increasing percentage of sealing, while an increased human density resulted in poor food quality for urban and rural WB. Although the percentage of protein decreased in areas with a high percentage of coniferous forests, the food quality increased. High percentage of grassland decreased the percentage of consumed fat and starch and increased the percentage of fibre, while a high percentage of agricultural areas increased the percentage of consumed starch. Anthropogenic food such as garbage might serve as fallback food when access to natural resources is limited. We infer that urban WB forage abundant, natural resources in urban areas. Urban WB might use anthropogenic resources (e.g. garbage) if those are easier to exploit and more abundant than natural resources. This study shows that access to natural resources still is mandatory and drives the amount of protein, starch, fat or fibre in wild boar stomachs in urban as well as rural environments.

Wild inside: Urban wild boar select natural, not anthropogenic food resources

PubMed Central

Stillfried, Milena; Gras, Pierre; Busch, Matthias; Börner, Konstantin; Kramer-Schadt, Stephanie; Ortmann, Sylvia

2017-01-01

Most wildlife species are urban avoiders, but some became urban utilizers and dwellers successfully living in cities. Often, they are assumed to be attracted into urban areas by easily accessible and highly energetic anthropogenic food sources. We macroscopically analysed stomachs of 247 wild boar (Sus scrofa, hereafter WB) from urban areas of Berlin and from the surrounding rural areas. From the stomach contents we determined as predictors of food quality modulus of fineness (MOF,), percentage of acid insoluble ash (AIA) and macronutrients such as amount of energy and percentage of protein, fat, fibre and starch. We run linear mixed models to test: (1) differences in the proportion of landscape variables, (2) differences of nutrients consumed in urban vs. rural WB and (3) the impact of landscape variables on gathered nutrients. We found only few cases of anthropogenic food in the qualitative macroscopic analysis. We categorized the WB into five stomach content categories but found no significant difference in the frequency of those categories between urban and rural WB. The amount of energy was higher in stomachs of urban WB than in rural WB. The analysis of landscape variables revealed that the energy of urban WB increased with increasing percentage of sealing, while an increased human density resulted in poor food quality for urban and rural WB. Although the percentage of protein decreased in areas with a high percentage of coniferous forests, the food quality increased. High percentage of grassland decreased the percentage of consumed fat and starch and increased the percentage of fibre, while a high percentage of agricultural areas increased the percentage of consumed starch. Anthropogenic food such as garbage might serve as fallback food when access to natural resources is limited. We infer that urban WB forage abundant, natural resources in urban areas. Urban WB might use anthropogenic resources (e.g. garbage) if those are easier to exploit and more abundant than natural resources. This study shows that access to natural resources still is mandatory and drives the amount of protein, starch, fat or fibre in wild boar stomachs in urban as well as rural environments. PMID:28403244

Rural versus urban Texas WIC participants' fruit and vegetable consumption.

PubMed

Ettienne-Gittens, Reynolette; McKyer, E Lisako J; Odum, Mary; Diep, Cassandra S; Li, Yan; Girimaji, Asha; Murano, Peter S

2013-01-01

To explore fruit and vegetable (F&V) consumption among urban and rural Black Texas WIC participants. The study included 673 WIC mothers and their 351 children from the TEXFAN study. T-tests, Pearson chi-squared test, and regressions were performed. Among children, differences were found for fruit consumption but not vegetable. Urban children were offered and consumed a greater variety of F&V. Mothers' F&V intake was related to age, pregnancy status, and breastfeeding status. This study provides insight into a subsection of the WIC population. Further research should be done regarding increasing the amount and variety of F&V consumed by WIC women and children.

12 CFR 265.9 - Functions delegated to the Director of Division of Consumer and Community Affairs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

...), 814(c), and 917(b) of the Consumer Credit Protection Act (15 U.S.C. 1607(b), 1681s(b), 1691c(b), 1692l... responsibilities in connection with: (1) Sections 1-200 and 501-921 of the Consumer Credit Protection Act (15 U.S.C... Advisory Council. Pursuant to section 703(b) of the Consumer Credit Protection Act (15 U.S.C. 1691b(b)), to...

Do perceptions of direct-to-consumer pharmaceutical advertising vary based on urban versus rural living?

PubMed

Spake, Deborah F; Joseph, Mathew; Megehee, Carol M

2014-01-01

This study explores the connection between perceptions of direct-to-consumer (DTC) advertising based on where people live and shop. Urban consumers were found to be more skeptical of DTC advertising, but more likely to believe that physicians select pharmaceuticals based on the efficacy of the product. Those living in rural areas were more motivated to visit a doctor and more likely to feel an equal doctor-patient relationship after exposure to DTC advertising. Interaction effects among gender, income, and education were detected, as well as an interaction effects between location and income on views of DTC advertising.

75 FR 64349 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Comment Request for the Consolidated Consumers' Report

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-10-19

... Collection Activities: Comment Request for the Consolidated Consumers' Report AGENCY: U.S. Geological Survey...-0070. Title: Consolidated Consumers' Report. Type of Request: Extension of a currently approved collection. Affected Public: U.S. nonfuel consumers of ferrous and related metals. Respondent Obligation...

Spatio-Temporal Variability of Urban Heat Island and Urban Mobility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kar, B.; Omitaomu, O.

2017-12-01

A 2016 report by the U.S. Census stated that while the rural areas cover 97% of the U.S. landmass, these areas house only 19.7% of the nation's population. Given that the U.S. coastal counties are home to more than 50% of the U.S. population, these urban areas are clustered along the coast that is susceptible to sea level rise induced impacts. In light of increasing climate variability and extreme events, it is pertinent to understand the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect that results from increasing population density and mobility in the urban areas, and that contributes to increased energy consumption and temperature as well as unmitigated flooding events. For example, in Illinois, warmer summers contribute to heavy precipitation that overwhelms the region's drainage capacity. This study focuses on understanding the spatio-temporal variability of the relationship between population density and mobility distribution, and creation of UHI due to temperature change in selected cities across the U.S. This knowledge will help us understand the role of UHI in energy-water nexus in urban areas, specifically, energy consumption.

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Mapping Impact of Urbanization in the Continental U.S. From 2001-2020

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bounoua, Lahouari; Nigro, Joseph; Zhang, Ping; Thome, Kurtis

2016-01-01

We combine Landsat and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) products to create observation-based and scenario-based maps characterizing distant-past, recent-past, present, and near-future land cover and land use change in the continental United States at a 5km scale. These maps show the nature and impact of urbanization across the continental U.S. from 2001 to 2020 with focus on the relationship between population and urban growth and how it varies across the U.S. The influence of culture on urbanization characteristics are revealed in the results at city-scale, helping to provide insight into both past and projected urbanization trends.

Mapping Impact of Urbanization in the Continental U.S. from 2001 - 2020

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bounoua, Lahouari; Nigro, Joseph; Zhang, Ping; Thome, Kurtis

2016-01-01

We combine Landsat and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) products to create observation-based and scenario-based maps characterizing distant-past, recent-past, present, and near-future land cover and land use change in the continental United States at a 5km scale. These maps show the nature and impact of urbanization across the continental U.S. from 2001 to 2020 with focus on the relationship between population and urban growth and how it varies across the U.S. The influence of culture on urbanization characteristics are revealed in the results at city-scale, helping to provide insight into both past and projected urbanization trends.

Business district streetscapes, trees, and consumer response

Treesearch

Kathleen L. Wolf

2005-01-01

A multistudy research program has investigated how consumers respond to the urban forest in central business districts of cities of various sizes. Trees positively affect judgments of visual quality but, more significantly, may influence other consumer responses and behaviors. Survey respondents from all regions of the United States...

77 FR 32901 - State Enforcement of Household Goods Consumer Protection

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-04

... enforce certain consumer protection provisions of Title 49 of the United States Code (U.S.C.) and related... bring civil actions in the U.S. district courts to enforce the consumer protection provisions that apply..., 386, and 387 State Enforcement of Household Goods Consumer Protection AGENCY: Federal Motor Carrier...

Combining forecast weights: Why and how?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yin, Yip Chee; Kok-Haur, Ng; Hock-Eam, Lim

2012-09-01

This paper proposes a procedure called forecast weight averaging which is a specific combination of forecast weights obtained from different methods of constructing forecast weights for the purpose of improving the accuracy of pseudo out of sample forecasting. It is found that under certain specified conditions, forecast weight averaging can lower the mean squared forecast error obtained from model averaging. In addition, we show that in a linear and homoskedastic environment, this superior predictive ability of forecast weight averaging holds true irrespective whether the coefficients are tested by t statistic or z statistic provided the significant level is within the 10% range. By theoretical proofs and simulation study, we have shown that model averaging like, variance model averaging, simple model averaging and standard error model averaging, each produces mean squared forecast error larger than that of forecast weight averaging. Finally, this result also holds true marginally when applied to business and economic empirical data sets, Gross Domestic Product (GDP growth rate), Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Average Lending Rate (ALR) of Malaysia.

77 FR 37250 - Delegations of Authority for the Office of Housing-Federal Housing Administration (FHA...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-20

... DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT [Docket No. FR-5557-D-07] Delegations of Authority for... for Housing--Federal Housing Commissioner, Department of Housing and Urban Development, 451 Seventh... 21, 2010) transferred from the Department of Housing and Urban Development to the new Consumer...

76 FR 14278 - U.S. Honey Producer Research, Promotion, and Consumer Information Order; Termination of...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-03-16

...-07-0091; FV-07-706-FR] RIN 0581-AC78 U.S. Honey Producer Research, Promotion, and Consumer... Regulations (CFR) referendum procedures for the proposed U.S. Honey Producer Research, Promotion, and Consumer... the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov or to the Research and Promotion Branch, Fruit and...

75 FR 18396 - U.S. Honey Producer Research, Promotion, and Consumer Information Order; Referendum Procedures

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2010-04-12

...; FV-07-706-FR] RIN 0581-AC78 U.S. Honey Producer Research, Promotion, and Consumer Information Order... Research, Promotion, and Consumer Information Order (Proposed U.S. Producer Order) is favored by persons to... under the Commodity Promotion, Research, and Information Act of 1996 (1996 Act). DATES: Effective Date...

Mrs. Laura Bush Announces First Preserve America Grant Recipients,

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Extractable organic matter in PM10 from LiWan district of Guangzhou City, PR China.

PubMed

Bi, Xinhui; Sheng, Guoying; Peng, Peng an; Zhang, Zhiqiang; Fu, Jiamo

2002-12-02

PM10 (particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter <10 microm) samples were collected at LiWan District of Guangzhou, PR China during April and July 2001 using a high volume air sampler to determine the distributions of homologous compounds and biomarkers. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) including non-alkylated PAHs, methyl-alkylated PAHs, and some PAHs containing S/O atoms and n-alkanes were measured using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis. The sigma(n)-alkane and sigmaPAHs ranged from 26.4 to 719.2 ng/m3 and 7.4 to 159.4 ng/m3, respectively. A seasonal fluctuation was clearly evident with higher concentrations occurring during the colder months (April). In addition, some compositional differences are observed for the organic compounds in samples collected from different heights above ground level. Higher sites had a significant contribution from vascular plant wax. The presence of petroleum products with no carbon number preference, pristane, phytane and a significant unresolved complex mixture (UCM) with unresolved to resolved components ratio (U/R) of 6.2-13.2 confirm the petroleum component. The relative distribution of n-alkanes and the values of molecular diagnostic ratio, such as carbon preference index (CPI) values ranging from 1.0 to 1.4 (for the whole range of n-alkanes), indicated the importance of petroleum and diesel residues and gasoline emissions, as well as the minor contribution of n-alkanes emitted directly from epicuticular waxes. Indeed, the percent contribution of leaf 'wax' n-alkanes (5.2-19.4%) indicated a low contribution of biogenic sources. The fossil fuel biomarkers, hopanes and steranes were observed in the PM10 samples, which indicate a petroleum origin. The distribution pattern of PAHs was characteristic of anthropogenic emissions. Coupling carbon number maximum (Cmax), CPI, U/R values, molecular marker and molecular diagnostic ratios for alkanes and PAHs revealed a classification of natural biogenic and anthropogenic components of atmospheric aerosols. These analyses support the conclusion that vehicular emission was the major source of organic compounds during the study period, while the contribution of epicuticular waxes emitted by terrestrial plants was minor.

Impact of a 7-Day Field Training on Oral Health Condition in Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Personnel.

PubMed

Yamashita, Koji; Nishiyama, Takeshi; Nagata, Emi; Ramadhani, Atik; Kawada-Matsuo, Miki; Komatsuzawa, Hitoshi; Oho, Takahiko

2017-07-01

In the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF), personnel periodically perform intensive training that mimics the conditions seen in battle and during natural disasters. Military training involves intensive, stressful conditions, and changes in immune responses have been found in personnel following training. Good oral condition is important for military personnel to fulfill their duties; however, they have difficulty performing daily oral care under training conditions. In this study, we investigated the impact of a 7-day field training on the oral health status of JGSDF personnel by comparing their oral condition before and just after training. The participants were 59 male and 3 female JGSDF personnel undergoing a 7-day field training. All personnel provided informed written consent to participate, and this study was approved by the ethics committee of the Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences. Oral health behaviors before and during the training period were surveyed using a self-administered questionnaire. Dental caries was assessed before training in terms of decayed, missing and filled teeth (DMFT), and periodontal condition was examined before and immediately after training using the community periodontal index (CPI). The presence of eight species of bacteria in dental plaque, including commensal streptococci that are early colonizers on the tooth surface, cariogenic bacteria, and periodontopathic bacteria, was determined using real-time polymerase chain reaction. We also assessed antibacterial factors and a stress marker in saliva samples. Sample collection was performed before and just after training. In addition to difference analysis between groups, logistic regression analysis was performed to examine the association between each health behavior and periodontal deterioration. The frequency of toothbrushing decreased, and snacking increased during the training period. Thirty-five personnel (56.5%) showed an increase in individual CPI code, and 57 personnel (91.9%) showed deterioration in the CPI code in 1 or more sextants after training (Figure 1). Toothbrushing frequency was significantly associated with CPI deterioration; the odds ratio in subjects who did not brush their teeth was 7.51 compared to those who brushed at least once during the training period. Severe periodontal deterioration was observed in the high-DMFT group (Figure 2), and toothbrushing frequency during the training period decreased more in this group compared to the low-DMFT group. The percentages of Streptococcus sanguinis and Streptococcus gordonii increased significantly after the training period suggesting dental plaque maturation, and an increase in S. sanguinis was associated with toothbrushing frequency. The lactoferrin concentration in saliva increased significantly after training. We demonstrated periodontal deterioration in JGSDF personnel after a 7-day training. Behavioral changes, especially discontinuation of regular toothbrushing, fostered dental plaque maturation, resulting in inflammatory changes in participants' periodontal condition. The results indicate the importance of performing toothbrushing at least once over a 7-day training period for prevention of periodontal deterioration. The regimen could be applicable to evacuees from disasters because they are under conditions of stress that may limit oral hygiene activity. Reprint & Copyright © 2017 Association of Military Surgeons of the U.S.

National Plug-In Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Analysis

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

Wood, Eric W.; Rames, Clement L.; Muratori, Matteo

This document describes a study conducted by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory quantifying the charging station infrastructure required to serve the growing U.S. fleet of plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs). PEV sales, which include plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and battery electric vehicles (BEVs), have surged recently. Most PEV charging occurs at home, but widespread PEV adoption will require the development of a national network of non-residential charging stations. Installation of these stations strategically would maximize the economic viability of early stations while enabling efficient network growth as the PEV market matures. This document describes what effective co-evolution of the PEVmore » fleet and charging infrastructure might look like under a range of scenarios. To develop the roadmap, NREL analyzed PEV charging requirements along interstate corridors and within urban and rural communities. The results suggest that a few hundred corridor fast-charging stations could enable long-distance BEV travel between U.S. cities. Compared to interstate corridors, urban and rural communities are expected to have significantly larger charging infrastructure requirements. About 8,000 fast-charging stations would be required to provide a minimum level of coverage nationwide. In an expanding PEV market, the total number of non-residential charging outlets or 'plugs' required to meet demand ranges from around 100,000 to more than 1.2 million. Understanding what drives this large range in capacity requirements is critical. For example, whether consumers prefer long-range or short-range PEVs has a larger effect on plug requirements than does the total number of PEVs on the road. The relative success of PHEVs versus BEVs also has a major impact, as does the number of PHEVs that charge away from home. This study shows how important it is to understand consumer preferences and driving behaviors when planning charging networks.« less

National Plug-In Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Analysis

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

Muratori, Matteo; Rames, Clement L; Srinivasa Raghavan, Sesha

This presentation describes a study conducted by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory quantifying the charging station infrastructure required to serve the growing U.S. fleet of plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs). PEV sales, which include plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and battery electric vehicles (BEVs), have surged recently. Most PEV charging occurs at home, but widespread PEV adoption will require the development of a national network of non-residential charging stations. Installation of these stations strategically would maximize the economic viability of early stations while enabling efficient network growth as the PEV market matures. This document describes what effective co-evolution of the PEVmore » fleet and charging infrastructure might look like under a range of scenarios. To develop the roadmap, NREL analyzed PEV charging requirements along interstate corridors and within urban and rural communities. The results suggest that a few hundred corridor fast-charging stations could enable long-distance BEV travel between U.S. cities. Compared to interstate corridors, urban and rural communities are expected to have significantly larger charging infrastructure requirements. About 8,000 fast-charging stations would be required to provide a minimum level of coverage nationwide. In an expanding PEV market, the total number of non-residential charging outlets or 'plugs' required to meet demand ranges from around 100,000 to more than 1.2 million. Understanding what drives this large range in capacity requirements is critical. For example, whether consumers prefer long-range or short-range PEVs has a larger effect on plug requirements than does the total number of PEVs on the road. The relative success of PHEVs versus BEVs also has a major impact, as does the number of PHEVs that charge away from home. This study shows how important it is to understand consumer preferences and driving behaviors when planning charging networks.« less

Fine Aerosol Associated Non-Polar Organics in Jammu, AN Urban Location in the Foothill Region of North Western Himalayas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yadav, S.; Bamotra, S.

2017-12-01

A comprehensive study was done on the mass, composition and sources of fine aerosol associated non-polar organics in Jammu, an urban location in the foothill region of North - Western Himalayas. Systematic multi-scale sampling was done from October, 2015 to February, 2017 to collect fine aerosol (PM2.5) samples every week using a Fine Particulate Sampler (Envirotech, APM 550 MFC) which operates at a constant flow rate of 16.7 L/minute. The Non- polar organic compounds comprising of n-alkanes, PAHs, isoprenoid hydrocarbons and nicotine were analyzed using Thermal desorption Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (TD-GC-MS) method. The n-alkane associated diagnostic parameters include—mass weighted Averaged Chain Length (ACL); Carbon number with maximum concentration (Cmax); Petroleum derived n-alkanes (PNA%), Carbon Preference Index (CPI) and the percentage contribution of Wax n-alkanes from plants (WNA%). These diagnostic parameters along with PAH based molecular ratios were used to understand the diurnal and seasonal variations in different biogenic and petrogenic source contributions in this part of Himalayas. The presence of source specific tracers like Levoglucosan, Retene, Isoquinoline and nicotine also corroborated our findings. Further Fine aerosols associated Black Carbon, an important marker for burning was determined using Optical Transmissometer. Significant multiscale variations were found in the Fine aerosol load, associated Non-polar organics, source tracers/contributions and Black Carbon.

Urban University Access and Affordability: The Implications of the Relationship between Gas Prices and Suburban Transit Ridership

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Baginski, Jessie

2010-01-01

Many college campuses across the country have implemented U-Pass transit programs to mitigate transportation costs for students. However, urban university U-pass programs fall short for suburban students who cannot get to the urban metro area without connecting public transportation. As urban universities rely on suburbs as feeder communities,…

CPI (chemical processing industry) feeling impact of new-car sales slump

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

Slaten, A.

1980-05-21

The slump in U.S. automobile production has reduced the automobile industry's demand for plastics. Nearly 5% (1.9 billion lb) of the 39.4 billion lb of plastic produced in 1979 were used in transportation (largely automotive) applications. According to A. Slaten of Rexene, automotive consumption of polypropylene will be down by 10-20% in 1980 from 1979's 440 million lb. According to Du Pont, the average 3000 lb automobile manufactured in 1980 contains about 200 lb of plastic, but by 1990, the average 2500 lb car will use 300-400 lb of plastic. According to Predicasts Inc., plastics use in automobiles will increasemore » by 8.4%/yr to a 6.15 billion lb market in 1995. The predicted annual growth rates for some plastics include: PVC, 4.4%; polyester (largely in sheet-molding compounds), 12.6%; polyethylene, 10.2%; nylon, 9.7%; acetals, 9.5%; polycarbonate, 7.2%; and polyurethane, 6.8%. Automobile production trends, the effect of the 1974-75 production downturn on plastics use in automobiles, and proposed government policies for aiding U.S. automobile manufacturers are discussed.« less

Using continuous process improvement methodology to standardize nursing handoff communication.

PubMed

Klee, Kristi; Latta, Linda; Davis-Kirsch, Sallie; Pecchia, Maria

2012-04-01

The purpose of this article was to describe the use of continuous performance improvement (CPI) methodology to standardize nurse shift-to-shift handoff communication. The goals of the process were to standardize the content and process of shift handoff, improve patient safety, increase patient and family involvement in the handoff process, and decrease end-of-shift overtime. This article will describe process changes made over a 4-year period as result of application of the plan-do-check-act procedure, which is an integral part of the CPI methodology, and discuss further work needed to continue to refine this critical nursing care process. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The A.U.U. and the Mission of the Urban University.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Crooks, James B.

1982-01-01

Suggests that the Association of Urban Universities (A.U.U.), before its dissolution, contributed significantly to the history of the American city and higher education by helping member institutions to respond to changing times. (Journal available through: Department of History, University of Wisconsin, Box 413, Milwaukee, WI 53201) (MJL)

Examining community and consumer food environments for children: An urban-suburban-rural comparison in Southwestern Ontario.

PubMed

DuBreck, Catherine M; Sadler, Richard C; Arku, Godwin; Gilliland, Jason A

2018-07-01

The aim of this study is to evaluate how retail food environments for children in the City of London and Middlesex County, Ontario, Canada, vary according to level of urbanicity and level of socioeconomic distress. Urbanicity in this study is defined as a neighbourhood's designation as urban, suburban, or rural. We assessed community food environments (e.g., the type, location, and accessibility of food outlets) using 800m and 1600m network buffers (school zones) around all public and private elementary schools, and we calculated and compared density of junk food opportunities (JFO) (e.g., fast food and full-service restaurants, grocery stores, and convenience stores) within each school zone in urban, suburban and rural settings. The study also assessed consumer food environments (e.g., the price, promotion, placement, and availability of healthy options and nutrition information) through restaurant children's menu audits using the Children's Menu Assessment tool. Results suggest JFO density is greater around elementary schools in areas with higher levels of socioeconomic distress and urbanicity, while urbanicity is also associated with greater use of branded marketing and inclusion of an unhealthy dessert on children's menus. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Environmental controls on leaf wax δD ratios in surface peats across the monsoonal region of China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, X.; Xue, J.; Wang, X.; Meyers, P. A.

2015-09-01

Leaf wax molecular and isotopic ratios are generally considered robust isotopic paleohydrologic proxies. Here we evaluate the proxy value of the molecular distributions and hydrogen isotopic compositions of long chain n-alkanes (δDalk) in surface peats collected from peatlands across a range of annual air temperatures from 1 to 15 °C and a range of annual mean precipitation from 720 to 2070 mm in the monsoonal region of China. The alkane ratios (ACL and CPI) and δDalk values show relatively large variations in multiple samples from a single site, highlighting the complexity of these ratios at a small spatial scale. In the montane Zoigê peatland, the apparent fractionation between precipitation and δDalk is more positive than in the other six sites, which is possibly an effect of the higher conductivity of the water in this high elevation site (3500 m a.s.l.). At a larger spatial scale, the site-averaged CPI ratios and the δDalk values of n-C29 and n-C31 alkanes show significant correlation with the air temperature and precipitation. These results support the application of the CPI ratio and the δDalk ratios of n-C29 and n-C31 alkanes as sensitive paleohydrologic proxies on millennial and larger timescales.

Comparison of simple additive weighting (SAW) and composite performance index (CPI) methods in employee remuneration determination

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karlitasari, L.; Suhartini, D.; Benny

2017-01-01

The process of determining the employee remuneration for PT Sepatu Mas Idaman currently are still using Microsoft Excel-based spreadsheet where in the spreadsheet there is the value of criterias that must be calculated for every employee. This can give the effect of doubt during the assesment process, therefore resulting in the process to take much longer time. The process of employee remuneration determination is conducted by the assesment team based on some criterias that have been predetermined. The criteria used in the assessment process are namely the ability to work, human relations, job responsibility, discipline, creativity, work, achievement of targets, and absence. To ease the determination of employee remuneration to be more efficient and effective, the Simple Additive Weighting (SAW) method is used. SAW method can help in decision making for a certain case, and the calculation that generates the greatest value will be chosen as the best alternative. Other than SAW, also by using another method was the CPI method which is one of the calculating method in decision making based on performance index. Where SAW method was more faster by 89-93% compared to CPI method. Therefore it is expected that this application can be an evaluation material for the need of training and development for employee performances to be more optimal.

A prediction model for periodontal disease: modelling and validation from a National Survey of 4061 Taiwanese adults.

PubMed

Lai, Hongmin; Su, Chiu-Wen; Yen, Amy Ming-Fang; Chiu, Sherry Yueh-Hsia; Fann, Jean Ching-Yuan; Wu, Wendy Yi-Ying; Chuang, Shu-Lin; Liu, Hsing-Chih; Chen, Hsiu-Hsi; Chen, Li-Sheng

2015-05-01

The aim of this study was to predict periodontal disease (PD) with demographical features, oral health behaviour, and clinical correlates based on a national survey of periodontal disease in Taiwan. A total of 4061 subjects who were enrolled in a cross-sectional nationwide survey on periodontal conditions of residents aged 18 years or older in Taiwan between 2007 and 2008 were included. The community periodontal index (CPI) was used to measure the periodontal status at the subject and sextant levels. Information on demographical features and other relevant predictive factors for PD was collected using a questionnaire. In our study population, 56.2% of subjects had CPI grades ≥3. Periodontitis, as defined by CPI ≥3, was best predicted by a model including age, gender, education, brushing frequency, mobile teeth, gingival bleeding, smoking, and BMI. The area under the curve (AUC) for the final prediction model was 0.712 (0.690-0.734). The AUC was 0.702 (0.665-0.740) according to cross-validation. A prediction model for PD using information obtained from questionnaires was developed. The feasibility of its application to risk stratification of PD should be considered with regard to community-based screening for asymptomatic PD. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

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

Gaudino, Danila; Pasquino, Rossana, E-mail: r.pasquino@unina.it; Grizzuti, Nino

The micellar system composed of Cetylpyridinium Chloride-Sodium Salicylate (CPyCl-NaSal) in brine aqueous solutions has been studied by systematically changing the salt concentration, in order to investigate the rheology of the arising morphologies. In particular, the zero-shear viscosity and the linear viscoelastic response have been measured as a function of the NaSal concentration (with [CPyCl] = 100 mM). The Newtonian viscosity shows a nonmonotonic dependence upon concentration, passing through a maximum at NaSal/CPyCl ≈ 0.6, and eventually dropping at higher salt concentrations. The progressive addition of salt determines first a transition from a Newtonian to a purely Maxwell-like behavior as the length of themore » micelles significantly increases. Beyond the peak viscosity, the viscoelastic data show two distinct features. On the one hand, the main relaxation time of the system strongly decreases, while the plateau modulus remains essentially constant. Calculations based on the rheological data show that, as the binding salt concentration increases, there is a decrease in micelles breaking rate and a decrease in their average length. On the other hand, in the same concentration region, a low-frequency elastic plateau is measured. Such a plateau is considered as the signature of a tenuous, but persistent branched network, whose existence is confirmed by cryo-transmission electron microscopy images.« less

Is There Still Room for Cancer Vaccines at the Era of Checkpoint Inhibitors

PubMed Central

Karaki, Soumaya; Anson, Marie; Tran, Thi; Giusti, Delphine; Blanc, Charlotte; Oudard, Stephane; Tartour, Eric

2016-01-01

Checkpoint inhibitor (CPI) blockade is considered to be a revolution in cancer therapy, although most patients (70%–80%) remain resistant to this therapy. It has been hypothesized that only tumors with high mutation rates generate a natural antitumor T cell response, which could be revigorated by this therapy. In patients with no pre-existing antitumor T cells, a vaccine-induced T cell response is a rational option to counteract clinical resistance. This hypothesis has been validated in preclinical models using various cancer vaccines combined with inhibitory pathway blockade (PD-1-PDL1-2, CTLA-4-CD80-CD86). Enhanced T cell infiltration of various tumors has been demonstrated following this combination therapy. The timing of this combination appears to be critical to the success of this therapy and multiple combinations of immunomodulating antibodies (CPI antagonists or costimulatory pathway agonists) have reinforced the synergy with cancer vaccines. Only limited results are available in humans and this combined approach has yet to be validated. Comprehensive monitoring of the regulation of CPI and costimulatory molecules after administration of immunomodulatory antibodies (anti-PD1/PD-L1, anti-CTLA-4, anti-OX40, etc.) and cancer vaccines should help to guide the selection of the best combination and timing of this therapy. PMID:27827885

Right frontal pole cortical thickness and social competence in children with chronic traumatic brain injury: cognitive proficiency as a mediator.

PubMed

Levan, Ashley; Baxter, Leslie; Kirwan, C Brock; Black, Garrett; Gale, Shawn D

2015-01-01

To examine the association between right frontal pole cortical thickness, social competence, and cognitive proficiency in children participants with a history of chronic traumatic brain injury (TBI). Twenty-three children (65% male; M age = 12.8 years, SD = 2.3 years) at least 1 year post-injury (M = 3.3 years, SD = 1.7 years) were evaluated with the Cognitive Proficiency Index (CPI) from the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, 4th Edition, and their caregiver completed the Child Behavior Checklist. Social competence was evaluated with the Social Competence and Social Problems subscales from the Child Behavior Checklist. Right frontal pole cortical thickness was calculated via FreeSurfer from high-resolution 3-dimensional T1 magnetic resonance imaging scans. Direct effect of right frontal pole cortical thickness on social competence was significant (β = 14.09, SE = 4.6, P < .01). Right frontal pole cortical thickness significantly predicted CPI (β = 18.44, SE = 4.9, P < .05), and CPI significantly predicted social competence (β = 0.503, SE = 0.17, P < .01). Findings were consistent with the hypothesized mediation model. The association between right frontal lobe cortical integrity and social competence in pediatric participants with chronic TBI may be mediated through cognitive proficiency.

U.S. EPA'S URBAN WATERSHED RESEARCH PROGRAM IN BMPS AND RESTORATION FOR WATER QUALITY MANAGEMENT

EPA Science Inventory

The U.S. EPA's Urban Watershed Management Branch is responsible for developing and demonstrating technologies and methods required managing the risk to public health, property and the environment from wet weather flows (WWF) in urban watersheds. The activities are primarily aimed...

Tracking urban carbon footprints from production and consumption perspectives

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Jianyi; Hu, Yuanchao; Cui, Shenghui; Kang, Jiefeng; Ramaswami, Anu

2015-05-01

Cities are hotspots of socio-economic activities and greenhouse gas emissions. The aim of this study was to extend the research range of the urban carbon footprint (CF) to cover emissions embodied in products traded among regions and intra-city sectors. Using Xiamen City as a study case, the total urban-related emissions were evaluated, and the carbon flows among regions and intra-city sectors were tracked. Then five urban CF accountings were evaluated, including purely geographic accounting (PGA), community-wide infrastructure footprint (CIF), and consumption-based footprint (CBF) methods, as well as the newly defined production-based footprint (PBF) and purely production footprint (PPF). Research results show that the total urban-related emissions of Xiamen City in 2010 were 55.2 Mt CO2e/y, of which total carbon flow among regions or intra-city sectors accounted for 53.7 Mt CO2e/y. Within the total carbon flow, import and export respectively accounted for 59 and 65%, highlighting the importance of emissions embodied in trade. By regional trade balance, North America and Europe were the largest net carbon exported-to regions, and Mainland China and Taiwan the largest net carbon imported-from regions. Among intra-sector carbon flows, manufacturing was the largest emission-consuming sector of the total urban carbon flow, accounting for 77.4, and 98% of carbon export was through industrial products trade. By the PBF, PPF, CIF, PGA and CBF methods, the urban CFs were respectively 53.7 Mt CO2e/y, 44.8 Mt CO2e/y, 28.4 Mt CO2e/y, 23.7 Mt CO2e/y, and 19.0 Mt CO2e/y, so all of the other four CFs were higher than the CBF. All of these results indicate that urban carbon mitigation must consider the supply chain management of imported goods, the production efficiency within the city, the consumption patterns of urban consumers, and the responsibility of the ultimate consumers outside the city.

A Taxonomy of Consumer Satisfaction/Dissatisfaction Measures

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Andreasen, Alan R.

1977-01-01

Government and business have become more concerned with measuring market performance in terms of consumer satisfactions and dissatisfactions (CS/D). This research is concerned with the question of how one ought to measure CS/D. Offers a taxonomy of alternative CS/D measures and presents data from a national urban study of consumer complaints to…

Impact of the new U.S. Department of Agriculture school meal standards on food selection, consumption, and waste.

PubMed

Cohen, Juliana F W; Richardson, Scott; Parker, Ellen; Catalano, Paul J; Rimm, Eric B

2014-04-01

The U.S Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently made substantial changes to the school meal standards. The media and public outcry have suggested that this has led to substantially more food waste. School meal selection, consumption, and waste were assessed before and after implementation of the new school meal standards. Plate waste data were collected in four schools in an urban, low-income school district. Logistic regression and mixed-model ANOVA were used to estimate the differences in selection and consumption of school meals before (fall 2011) and after implementation (fall 2012) of the new standards among 1030 elementary and middle school children. Analyses were conducted in 2013. After the new standards were implemented, fruit selection increased by 23.0% and entrée and vegetable selection remained unchanged. Additionally, post-implementation entrée consumption increased by 15.6%, vegetable consumption increased by 16.2%, and fruit consumption remained the same. Milk selection and consumption decreased owing to an unrelated milk policy change. Although food waste levels were substantial both pre- and post-implementation, the new guidelines have positively affected school meal selection and consumption. Despite the increased vegetable portion size requirement, consumption increased and led to significantly more cups of vegetables consumed. Significantly more students selected a fruit, whereas the overall percentage of fruit consumed remained the same, resulting in more students consuming fruits. Contrary to media reports, these results suggest that the new school meal standards have improved students' overall diet quality. Legislation to weaken the standards is not warranted. Copyright © 2014 American Journal of Preventive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Rural-urban and racial-ethnic differences in awareness of direct-to-consumer genetic testing.

PubMed

Salloum, Ramzi G; George, Thomas J; Silver, Natalie; Markham, Merry-Jennifer; Hall, Jaclyn M; Guo, Yi; Bian, Jiang; Shenkman, Elizabeth A

2018-02-23

Access to direct-to-consumer genetic testing services has increased in recent years. However, disparities in knowledge and awareness of these services are not well documented. We examined awareness of genetic testing services by rural/urban and racial/ethnic status. Analyses were conducted using pooled cross-sectional data from 4 waves (2011-2014) of the Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS). Descriptive statistics compared sample characteristics and information sources by rural/urban residence. Logistic regression was used to examine the relationship between geography, racial/ethnic status, and awareness of genetic testing, controlling for sociodemographic characteristics. Of 13,749 respondents, 16.7% resided in rural areas, 13.8% were Hispanic, and 10.1% were non-Hispanic black. Rural residents were less likely than urban residents to report awareness of genetic testing (OR = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.63-0.87). Compared with non-Hispanic whites, racial/ethnic minorities were less likely to be aware of genetic testing: Hispanic (OR = 0.68, 95% CI = 0.56-0.82); and non-Hispanic black (OR = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.61-0.90). Rural-urban and racial-ethnic differences exist in awareness of direct-to-consumer genetic testing. These differences may translate into disparities in the uptake of genetic testing, health behavior change, and disease prevention through precision and personalized medicine.

New Mortgages for Financing Homes Need Uniform and Comprehensive Consumer Safeguards.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-07-02

consumers . Greater flexibility for adjustable rate mortgages may result if lenders are not required to offer buyers a fixed rate loan, provide worst case... buyer . 12 LUI > 0 C-JuJ w 0L . LL L -U 0 wu-J 0 0 4u U- Doz 13 CHAPTER 3 ADJUSTABLE RATE MORTGAGES NEED BETTER CONSUMER SAFEGUARDS FHLBB and 0CC have...unsuccessful because VRMs were perceived as disadvantageous to consumers . Some believed VRMs would pit home buyers against lenders in a match to see who was

Effectively identifying compound-protein interactions by learning from positive and unlabeled examples.

PubMed

Cheng, Zhanzhan; Zhou, Shuigeng; Wang, Yang; Liu, Hui; Guan, Jihong; Chen, Yi-Ping Phoebe

2016-05-18

Prediction of compound-protein interactions (CPIs) is to find new compound-protein pairs where a protein is targeted by at least a compound, which is a crucial step in new drug design. Currently, a number of machine learning based methods have been developed to predict new CPIs in the literature. However, as there is not yet any publicly available set of validated negative CPIs, most existing machine learning based approaches use the unknown interactions (not validated CPIs) selected randomly as the negative examples to train classifiers for predicting new CPIs. Obviously, this is not quite reasonable and unavoidably impacts the CPI prediction performance. In this paper, we simply take the unknown CPIs as unlabeled examples, and propose a new method called PUCPI (the abbreviation of PU learning for Compound-Protein Interaction identification) that employs biased-SVM (Support Vector Machine) to predict CPIs using only positive and unlabeled examples. PU learning is a class of learning methods that leans from positive and unlabeled (PU) samples. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work that identifies CPIs using only positive and unlabeled examples. We first collect known CPIs as positive examples and then randomly select compound-protein pairs not in the positive set as unlabeled examples. For each CPI/compound-protein pair, we extract protein domains as protein features and compound substructures as chemical features, then take the tensor product of the corresponding compound features and protein features as the feature vector of the CPI/compound-protein pair. After that, biased-SVM is employed to train classifiers on different datasets of CPIs and compound-protein pairs. Experiments over various datasets show that our method outperforms six typical classifiers, including random forest, L1- and L2-regularized logistic regression, naive Bayes, SVM and k-nearest neighbor (kNN), and three types of existing CPI prediction models. Source code, datasets and related documents of PUCPI are available at: http://admis.fudan.edu.cn/projects/pucpi.html.

Correct, fake and absent pre-information does not affect the occurrence and magnitude of the bilateral force deficit.

PubMed

Donath, Lars; Siebert, Tobias; Faude, Oliver; Puta, Christian

2014-05-01

The present study examined whether different pre-information conditions could lead to a volitional modulation of the occurrence and magnitude of the bilateral force deficit (BFD) during isometric leg press. Twenty trained male adults (age: 24.5 ± 1.7 years; weight: 77.5 ± 7.1 kg; height: 1.81 ± 0.05 m) were examined on three days within a week. Isometric leg press was performed on a negatively inclined leg press slide. Each participant completed three maximal isometric strength test sessions with different pre-information conditions given in a graphical chart: no pre-information (NPI; first day), false pre-information (FPI; bilateral force > sum of unilateral forces; second or third day) and correct pre-information (CPI; bilateral force < sum of unilateral forces; second or third day) during bilateral, unilateral-left and unilateral-right leg-press. The sum of left- and right-sided force values were calculated for bilateral (FBL = FBL_left + FBL_right) and unilateral (FUL = FUL_left + FUL_right) analyses. Force data for NPI revealed: Mean (SD): FUL_NPI = 3023 N (435) vs. FBL_NPI = 2812 (453); FPI showed FUL_FPI = 3013 N (459) vs. FBL_FPI = 2843 (446) and the CPI revealed FUL_CPI = 3035 (425) vs. FBL_CPI = 2844 (385). The three (no, false, correct) x 2 (FUL, FBL) rANOVA revealed a high significant main effect of Force (F = 61.82, p < 0.001). No significant main effect of the factor Condition and no significant interaction between Force x Condition was observed. The BFD does not rely on the trueness of the given pre-information (no, false, correct). Cognition-based volitional influences on the BFD on supra-spinal level seem negligible. Key pointsBFD is reliable occurring phenomenonAvailable theoretical knowledge does not affect the BFDAlternating sport should include alternating strength exercises.

On understanding proton transfer to the biocatalytic [Fe-Fe](H) sub-cluster in [Fe-Fe]H(2)ases: QM/MM MD simulations.

PubMed

Hong, G; Cornish, A J; Hegg, E L; Pachter, R

2011-05-01

Proton transfer to the [Fe-Fe](H) sub-cluster in the Desulfovibrio desulfuricans (DdH) and Clostridium pasteurianum (CpI) [Fe-Fe] hydrogenases was investigated by a combination of first principles and empirical molecular dynamics simulations. Pathways that can be inferred from the X-ray crystal structures of DdH and CpI, i.e., (Glu159→Ser198→Glu156→water460→Cys178→DTMA([Fe-Fe](H)) and (Glu282→Ser319→Glu279→water612→Cys299), respectively, were considered. Proton transfer from Cys178 to DTMA in the [Fe-Fe](H) sub-cluster in DdH was readily observed in our results, specifically when [Fe-Fe](H) was in the reduced state ([Fe(I)-Fe(I)]) or in the mixed valence state for the protonated distal iron Fe(d) ([Fe(I)-Fe(II)-H(-)](H)). A concerted mechanism is proposed, where proton transfer in DdH from Glu159 to Glu156 via Ser198 and Glu156 to Cys178 via water460 readily occurred, as well as from Glu282 to Glu279 via Ser319 and Glu279 to Cys299 via water612 in CpI. The theoretical prediction of the proton transfer characteristics is consistent with the assumed biocatalytic mechanism of the [Fe-Fe] hydrogenases in which the proton binds at Fe(d), providing confirmation that has not been explored so far. The computational results were qualitatively validated by the agreement with experimental hydrogen production activity data for mutated CpI enzymes, relative to the wild-type protein. Finally, the insight provided by the simulations, combined, in part, with experimental validation, are important for establishing an approach in future exploration of proton transfer to the active site in this class of enzymes, and possibly also for biomimetic analogs. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Evaluation of visual and computer-based CT analysis for the identification of functional patterns of obstruction and restriction in hypersensitivity pneumonitis.

PubMed

Jacob, Joseph; Bartholmai, Brian J; Brun, Anne Laure; Egashira, Ryoko; Rajagopalan, Srinivasan; Karwoski, Ronald; Kouranos, Vasileios; Kokosi, Maria; Hansell, David M; Wells, Athol U

2017-11-01

To determine whether computer-based quantification (CALIPER software) is superior to visual computed tomography (CT) scoring in the identification of CT patterns indicative of restrictive and obstructive functional indices in hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP). A total of 135 consecutive HP patients had CT parenchymal patterns evaluated quantitatively by both visual scoring and CALIPER. Results were evaluated against: forced vital capacity (FVC), total lung capacity (TLC), diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DL CO ) and a composite physiological index (CPI) to identify which CT scoring method better correlated with functional indices. CALIPER-derived scores of total interstitial lung disease extent correlated more strongly than visual scores: FVC (CALIPER R = 0.73, visual R = 0.51); DL CO (CALIPER R = 0.61, visual R = 0.48); and CPI (CALIPER R = 0·70, visual R = 0·55). The CT variable that correlated most strongly with restrictive functional indices was CALIPER pulmonary vessel volume (PVV): FVC R = 0.75, DL CO R = 0.68 and CPI R = 0.76. Ground-glass opacity quantified by CALIPER alone demonstrated strong associations with restrictive functional indices: CALIPER FVC R = 0.65; DL CO R = 0.59; CPI R = 0.64; and visual = not significant. Decreased attenuation lung quantified by CALIPER was a better morphological measure of obstructive lung disease than equivalent visual scores as judged by relationships with TLC (CALIPER R = 0.63 and visual R = 0.12). All results were maintained on multivariate analysis. CALIPER improved on visual scoring in HP as judged by restrictive and obstructive functional correlations. Decreased attenuation regions of the lung quantified by CALIPER demonstrated better linkages to obstructive lung physiology than visually quantified CT scores. A novel CALIPER variable, the PVV, demonstrated the strongest linkages with restrictive functional indices and could represent a new automated index of disease severity in HP. © 2017 Asian Pacific Society of Respirology.

Irrigated urban vegetable production in Ghana: microbiological contamination in farms and markets and associated consumer risk groups.

PubMed

Amoah, P; Drechsel, P; Henseler, M; Abaidoo, R C

2007-09-01

Ghana is a typical low-income sub-Saharan African country facing significant sanitation challenges. In Ghana, fresh salads are not part of the normal diet, but have become a common supplement to urban fast food served in streets, canteens and restaurants. In Accra, about 200 000 people consume from such supplements every day. The figure also describes the size of the risk group from contamination, which comprises all income classes including the poor and children. The purpose of this study was to investigate widespread water pollution in urban and peri-urban areas, where 95% of the lettuce consumed in the city is produced. Over 12 months (April 2004-June 2005), lettuce samples from the same production sites in two cities were followed and analyzed along the "farm to fork" pathway for total and faecal coliform (FC) and helminth egg numbers. Questionnaire surveys were conducted among producers, sellers and consumers to quantify lettuce flows to the final risk group. The study identified the farm as the main point of lettuce contamination. Besides the irrigation water, contamination was also attributed to manure application and already contaminated soil. Despite poor sanitary conditions in markets, post-harvest handling and marketing did not further increase the farm-gate contamination levels. To reduce the health risk associated with the consumption of contaminated lettuce; safer farming and irrigation practices are required while the remaining risk could best be addressed where lettuce is prepared for consumption.

The contribution of at-home and away-from-home food to dietary intake among 2-13-year-old Mexican children.

PubMed

Taillie, Lindsey Smith; Afeiche, Myriam C; Eldridge, Alison L; Popkin, Barry M

2017-10-01

Away-from-home foods have been shown to have lower nutritional quality and larger portion sizes than many foods prepared at home. We aimed to describe energy and nutrient intakes among 2-13-year-old Mexican children by eating location (at home and away from home), overall, by socio-economic status (SES) and by urbanicity. Dietary intake was collected via one 24 h recall in the 2012 Mexican National Health and Nutrition Survey (ENSANUT). Location was reported for each food consumed. Results were adjusted for sex, day of recall, region, weight status, SES and urbanicity. Mexico (nationally representative). Children aged 2-5 years (n 1905) and 6-13 years (n 2868). Children consumed the majority of daily energy at home (89% of 2-5-year-olds; 82 % of 6-13-year-olds). The most common away-from-home eating location was school (22 % of 2-5-year-olds; 43 % of 6-13-year-olds), followed by the street (14 % of 2-5-year-olds; 13 % of 6-13-year-olds). The most common foods consumed away from home were wheat/rice and corn mixed dishes, sugar-sweetened beverages, pastries/candy/desserts, milk (2-5-year-olds only) and salty snacks (6-13-year-olds). Multivariate models showed that high-SES 2-5-year-olds consumed 14 % of daily energy away from home v. 8 % among low-SES 2-5-year-olds, and high-SES 6-13-year-olds consumed 21 % of daily energy away from home v. 14 % among low-SES 6-13 year-olds. There were no differences by urban residence. Among Mexican children, most foods and beverages were consumed at home. However, the percentage of foods consumed or purchased away from home increased with age and with SES.

Consumer Credit Access, Innovation, and Modernization Act

THOMAS, 113th Congress

Rep. Luetkemeyer, Blaine [R-MO-3

2013-04-15

Senate - 03/26/2014 Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Subcommittee on Financial Institutions and Consumer Protection. Hearings held. (All Actions) Tracker: This bill has the status IntroducedHere are the steps for Status of Legislation:

Turning Brownfields into Opportunities for Urban Revitalization: The North End and Park East Corridor in Milwaukee

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-06-30

On June 16, 2009, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the U.S. Department of Transportaon (DOT), and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) joined together to help communities nationwide improve access to affordable ...

Federal Support for Preserve America

Science.gov Websites

; the U.S. Departments of Defense, Interior, Agriculture, Commerce, Housing and Urban Development . Department of Commerce seal U.S. Department of Agriculture logo U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Agriculture, through its Rural Development Community Facilities Grants, gives preference to applications from

77 FR 37836 - Petition Requesting Commission Action Regarding Crib Bumpers

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-25

... CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION 16 CFR Chapter II [Docket No. CPSC-2012-0034] Petition Requesting Commission Action Regarding Crib Bumpers AGENCY: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. ACTION: Petition for rulemaking. SUMMARY: The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (``Commission'') has received...

Mapping the Carbon Footprint of Nations.

PubMed

Kanemoto, Keiichiro; Moran, Daniel; Hertwich, Edgar G

2016-10-04

Life cycle thinking asks companies and consumers to take responsibility for emissions along their entire supply chain. As the world economy becomes more complex it is increasingly difficult to connect consumers and other downstream users to the origins of their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Given the important role of subnational entities-cities, states, and companies-in GHG abatement efforts, it would be advantageous to better link downstream users to facilities and regulators who control primary emissions. We present a new spatially explicit carbon footprint method for establishing such connections. We find that for most developed countries the carbon footprint has diluted and spread: for example, since 1970 the U.S. carbon footprint has grown 23% territorially, and 38% in consumption-based terms, but nearly 200% in spatial extent (i.e., the minimum area needed to contain 90% of emissions). The rapidly growing carbon footprints of China and India, however, do not show such a spatial expansion of their consumption footprints in spite of their increasing participation in the world economy. In their case, urbanization concentrates domestic pollution and this offsets the increasing importance of imports.

75 FR 68728 - Establishment of a U.S. Honey Producer Research, Promotion, and Consumer Information Order...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-11-09

... U.S. Honey Producer Research, Promotion, and Consumer Information Order; Withdrawal of a Proposed..., 2010, that proposed a new U.S. honey producer funded research and promotion program under the Commodity Promotion, Research, and Information Act of 1996 (1996 Act). The proposed U.S. Honey Producer Research...

Modifying the Toyota Production System for continuous performance improvement in an academic children's hospital.

PubMed

Stapleton, F Bruder; Hendricks, James; Hagan, Patrick; DelBeccaro, Mark

2009-08-01

The Toyota Production System (TPS) has become a successful model for improving efficiency and eliminating errors in manufacturing processes. In an effort to provide patients and families with the highest quality clinical care, our academic children's hospital has modified the techniques of the TPS for a program in continuous performance improvement (CPI) and has expanded its application to educational and research programs. Over a period of years, physicians, nurses, residents, administrators, and hospital staff have become actively engaged in a culture of continuous performance improvement. This article provides background into the methods of CPI and describes examples of how we have applied these methods for improvement in clinical care, resident teaching, and research administration.

Differences in personality and patterns of recidivism between early starters and other serious male offenders.

PubMed

Ge, Xiaojia; Donnellan, M Brent; Wenk, Ernst

2003-01-01

In this study, the differences in personality and patterns of recidivism were compared between individuals with an early incidence of offending ("early starters") and their later-starting counterparts ("later starters"). Results indicated that early starters were significantly different from later starters in several personality characteristics, as measured by the California Personality Inventory (CPI) and the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI). Specifically, early starters scored lower on the responsibility and socialization scales of the CPI and higher on the paranoia, schizophrenia, and hypomania scales of the MMPI. Moreover, results indicated that early starters were at a significantly higher risk for recidivism than later starters, both at a 15-month and a 20-year follow-up.

75 FR 5716 - Federal Acquisition Regulation; FAR Case 2008-024, Inflation Adjustment of Acquisition-Related...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-02-04

... Consumer Price Index for all urban consumers, except for Davis-Bacon Act, Service Contract Act, and trade... consumers, except for Davis-Bacon Act, Service Contract Act, and trade agreements thresholds (see FAR 1.109... acquisition-related thresholds established by the Davis-Bacon Act, the Service Contract Act, or the United...

Mid-Atlantic Consumer Purchasing Behavior and Knowledge of Locally Grown and Seasonal Produce

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chamberlain, Amy J.; Kelley, Kathleen M.; Hyde, Jeffrey

2013-01-01

Mid-Atlantic urban consumers were surveyed on their fruit and vegetable purchasing behaviors and their knowledge of produce grown in the region. Consumers were generally unaware of what produce is grown in the mid-Atlantic and during what months they are harvested. Additionally, differences pertaining to number of produce items purchased were…

Classrooms & Community: Using Community Resources in the Consumer Education Curriculum.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smorodin, Calla; And Others

Intended to supplement the fifth grade textbook "Young Consumers" (part of the "Law in Action Series" by West Publishing Company, 1980), this guide contains 22 lessons each of which includes a classroom visit from a community resource person. The guide is a product of the Urban Consumer Education Project, a cooperative program between the St.…

Summary of surface-water hydrologic data for the Houston metropolitan area, Texas, water years 1964-89

USGS Publications Warehouse

Liscum, Fred; Brown, D.W.; Kasmarek, M.C.

1997-01-01

The study area, a metropolitan area in southeast Texas about 45 miles north of the Gulf of Mexico, has been undergoing extensive urban development since the 1950s. The Houston Urban Runoff Program was begun by the U.S. Geological Survey in water year 1964 to define the magnitude and frequency of flood peaks, to determine the impact of continuing urban development on surface-water hydrologic responses, and to determine variations in stream water quality for different flow conditions, seasons, and urban development. An extensive data base has been developed.During water years 1964-89, the Houston Urban Runoff Program collected information from a total of 54 U.S. Geological Survey streamflow-gaging stations, 30 U.S. Geological Survey water-quality sampling sites, and 102 rain gages (operated by the U.S. Geological Survey, the National Weather Service, and local agencies). In addition, basin characteristics were developed to aid in understanding the effects of urban development on surface-water hydrologic responses.Surface-water hydrologic data on diskettes describe the 54 U.S. Geological Survey streamflow-gaging stations, list annual peaks (and where available, peaks above an arbitrary base) for 50 streamflow sites, tabulate 1,125 storm hydrographs from 43 sites, and document 102 waterquality parameters determined from 3,242 available samples.

24 CFR 3286.7 - Consumer information.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANUFACTURED HOME INSTALLATION PROGRAM Generally Applicable Provisions and... recommendation that any home that has been reinstalled after its original installation should be inspected after... manufactured home, the retailer must provide the purchaser or lessee with a consumer disclosure. This...

Lead in drinking water: sampling in primary schools and preschools in south central Kansas.

PubMed

Massey, Anne R; Steele, Janet E

2012-03-01

Studies in Philadelphia, New York City, Houston, Washington, DC, and Greenville, North Carolina, have revealed high lead levels in drinking water. Unlike urban areas, lead levels in drinking water in suburban and rural areas have not been adequately studied. In the study described in this article, drinking water in primary schools and preschools in five suburban and rural south central Kansas towns was sampled to determine if any exceeded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) guidance level for schools and child care facilities of 20 parts per billion (ppb). The results showed a total of 32.1% of the samples had detectable lead levels and 3.6% exceeded the U.S. EPA guidance level for schools and child care providers of 20 ppb. These results indicate that about one-third of the drinking water consumed by children age six and under in the five suburban and rural south central Kansas towns studied has some lead contamination, exposing these children to both short-term and long-term health risks. The authors suggest a need for increased surveillance of children's drinking water in these facilities.

Trends in childhood mortality in Kenya: the urban advantage has seemingly been wiped out.

PubMed

Kimani-Murage, E W; Fotso, J C; Egondi, T; Abuya, B; Elungata, P; Ziraba, A K; Kabiru, C W; Madise, N

2014-09-01

We describe trends in childhood mortality in Kenya, paying attention to the urban-rural and intra-urban differentials. We use data from the Kenya Demographic and Health Surveys (KDHS) collected between 1993 and 2008 and the Nairobi Urban Health and Demographic Surveillance System (NUHDSS) collected in two Nairobi slums between 2003 and 2010, to estimate infant mortality rate (IMR), child mortality rate (CMR) and under-five mortality rate (U5MR). Between 1993 and 2008, there was a downward trend in IMR, CMR and U5MR in both rural and urban areas. The decline was more rapid and statistically significant in rural areas but not in urban areas, hence the gap in urban-rural differentials narrowed over time. There was also a downward trend in childhood mortality in the slums between 2003 and 2010 from 83 to 57 for IMR, 33 to 24 for CMR, and 113 to 79 for U5MR, although the rates remained higher compared to those for rural and non-slum urban areas in Kenya. The narrowing gap between urban and rural areas may be attributed to the deplorable living conditions in urban slums. To reduce childhood mortality, extra emphasis is needed on the urban slums. Copyright © 2014 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Global Village versus Culture Shock: The Recruitment and Preparation of Foreign Teachers for U. S. Urban Schools

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dunn, Alyssa Hadley

2011-01-01

Though international teachers have been present in U.S. schools for decades, their recruitment for urban schools as a response to the supposed teacher shortage is a relatively new phenomenon with little research to support it. This study examines international teachers' recruitment and preparation for urban environments. Informed by classroom…

76 FR 33179 - Petition Requesting Safeguards for Glass Fronts of Gas Vented Fireplaces

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-06-08

... CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION 16 CFR 1460 Petition Requesting Safeguards for Glass Fronts of Gas Vented Fireplaces AGENCY: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (``Commission'' or ``we'') has received a petition (CP 11-1...

Water and Carbon Footprints for Sustainability Analysis of Urban Infrastructure

EPA Science Inventory

Water and transportation infrastructures define spatial distribution of urban population and economic activities. In this context, energy and water consumed per capita are tangible measures of how efficient water and transportation systems are constructed and operated. At a hig...

Urban energy consumption and related carbon emission estimation: a study at the sector scale

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Weiwei; Chen, Chen; Su, Meirong; Chen, Bin; Cai, Yanpeng; Xing, Tao

2013-12-01

With rapid economic development and energy consumption growth, China has become the largest energy consumer in the world. Impelled by extensive international concern, there is an urgent need to analyze the characteristics of energy consumption and related carbon emission, with the objective of saving energy, reducing carbon emission, and lessening environmental impact. Focusing on urban ecosystems, the biggest energy consumer, a method for estimating energy consumption and related carbon emission was established at the urban sector scale in this paper. Based on data for 1996-2010, the proposed method was applied to Beijing in a case study to analyze the consumption of different energy resources (i.e., coal, oil, gas, and electricity) and related carbon emission in different sectors (i.e., agriculture, industry, construction, transportation, household, and service sectors). The results showed that coal and oil contributed most to energy consumption and carbon emission among different energy resources during the study period, while the industrial sector consumed the most energy and emitted the most carbon among different sectors. Suggestions were put forward for energy conservation and emission reduction in Beijing. The analysis of energy consumption and related carbon emission at the sector scale is helpful for practical energy saving and emission reduction in urban ecosystems.

ACHP | News

Science.gov Websites

assistant secretary at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development; Rep. Mike Turner (R-OH); Bob Young, Regional Director of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development; and Scarlett. Two high

Urinary bisphenol A concentrations in girls from rural and urban Egypt: a pilot study

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Exposure to endocrine active compounds, including bisphenol A (BPA), remains poorly characterized in developing countries despite the fact that behavioral practices related to westernization have the potential to influence exposure. BPA is a high production volume chemical that has been associated with metabolic dysfunction as well as behavioral and developmental effects in people, including children. In this pilot study, we evaluate BPA exposure and assess likely pathways of exposure among girls from urban and rural Egypt. Methods We measured urinary concentrations of total (free plus conjugated) species of BPA in spot samples in urban (N = 30) and rural (N = 30) Egyptian girls, and compared these concentrations to preexisting data from age-matched American girls (N = 47) from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). We also collected anthropometric and questionnaire data regarding food storage behaviors to assess potential routes of exposure. Results Urban and rural Egyptian girls exhibited similar concentrations of urinary total BPA, with median unadjusted values of 1.00 and 0.60 ng/mL, respectively. Concentrations of urinary BPA in this group of Egyptian girls (median unadjusted: 0.70 ng/mL) were significantly lower compared to age-matched American girls (median unadjusted: 2.60 ng/mL) according to NHANES 2009-2010 data. Reported storage of food in plastic containers was a significant predictor of increasing concentrations of urinary BPA. Conclusions Despite the relatively low urinary BPA concentrations within this Egyptian cohort, the significant association between food storage behaviors and increasing urinary BPA concentration highlights the need to understand food and consumer product patterns that may be closing the gap between urban and rural lifestyles. PMID:22472083

A bill to amend the Consumer Financial Protection Act of 2010 to provide consumers with a free annual disclosure of information the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection maintains on them, and for other purposes.

THOMAS, 113th Congress

Sen. Vitter, David [R-LA

2013-11-07

Senate - 11/07/2013 Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. (All Actions) Tracker: This bill has the status IntroducedHere are the steps for Status of Legislation:

An u-Service Model Based on a Smart Phone for Urban Computing Environments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cho, Yongyun; Yoe, Hyun

In urban computing environments, all of services should be based on the interaction between humans and environments around them, which frequently and ordinarily in home and office. This paper propose an u-service model based on a smart phone for urban computing environments. The suggested service model includes a context-aware and personalized service scenario development environment that can instantly describe user's u-service demand or situation information with smart devices. To do this, the architecture of the suggested service model consists of a graphical service editing environment for smart devices, an u-service platform, and an infrastructure with sensors and WSN/USN. The graphic editor expresses contexts as execution conditions of a new service through a context model based on ontology. The service platform deals with the service scenario according to contexts. With the suggested service model, an user in urban computing environments can quickly and easily make u-service or new service using smart devices.

Long-chain carboxylic acids in pyrolysates of Green River kerogen

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kawamura, K.; Tannenbaum, E.; Huizinga, B. J.; Kaplan, I. R.

1986-01-01

Long-chain fatty acids (C10-C32), as well as C14-C21 isoprenoid acids (except for C18), have been identified in anhydrous and hydrous pyrolyses products of Green River kerogen (200-400 degrees C, 2-1000 hr). These kerogen-released fatty acids are characterized by a strong even/odd predominance (CPI: 4.8-10.2) with a maximum at C16 followed by lesser amounts of C18 and C22 acids. This distribution is different from that of unbound and bound geolipids extracted from Green River shale. The unbound fatty acids show a weak even/odd predominance (CPI: 1.64) with a maximum at C14, and bound fatty acids display an even/odd predominance (CPI: 2.8) with maxima at C18 and C30. These results suggest that fatty acids were incorporated into kerogen during sedimentation and early diagenesis and were protected from microbial and chemical changes over geological periods of time. Total quantities of fatty acids produced during heating of the kerogen ranged from 0.71 to 3.2 mg/g kerogen. Highest concentrations were obtained when kerogen was heated with water for 100 hr at 300 degrees C. Generally, their amounts did not decrease under hydrous conditions with increase in temperature or heating time, suggesting that significant decarboxylation did not occur under the pyrolysis conditions used, although hydrocarbons were extensively generated.

Ultra-thin and smooth transparent electrode for flexible and leakage-free organic light-emitting diodes

PubMed Central

Ok, Ki-Hun; Kim, Jiwan; Park, So-Ra; Kim, Youngmin; Lee, Chan-Jae; Hong, Sung-Jei; Kwak, Min-Gi; Kim, Namsu; Han, Chul Jong; Kim, Jong-Woong

2015-01-01

A smooth, ultra-flexible, and transparent electrode was developed from silver nanowires (AgNWs) embedded in a colorless polyimide (cPI) by utilizing an inverted film-processing method. The resulting AgNW-cPI composite electrode had a transparency of >80%, a low sheet resistance of 8 Ω/□, and ultra-smooth surfaces comparable to glass. Leveraging the robust mechanical properties and flexibility of cPI, the thickness of the composite film was reduced to less than 10 μm, which is conducive to extreme flexibility. This film exhibited mechanical durability, for both outward and inward bending tests, up to a bending radius of 30 μm, while maintaining its electrical performance under cyclic bending (bending radius: 500 μm) for 100,000 iterations. Phosphorescent, blue organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) were fabricated using these composites as bottom electrodes (anodes). Hole-injection was poor, because AgNWs were largely buried beneath the composite's surface. Thus, we used a simple plasma treatment to remove the thin cPI layer overlaying the nanowires without introducing other conductive materials. As a result, we were able to finely control the flexible OLEDs' electroluminescent properties using the enlarged conductive pathways. The fabricated flexible devices showed only slight performance reductions of <3% even after repeated foldings with a 30 μm bending radius. PMID:25824143

Organic matter in eolian dusts over the Atlantic Ocean

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Simoneit, B. R. T.

1977-01-01

The elemental and mineralogical composition and the microfossil and detritus content of particulate fallout from the lower troposphere over the Atlantic Ocean have been extensively documented in earlier work, and it was possible to ascribe terrigenous source areas to such fallout. A brief review of the organic geochemistry of eolian dusts is also presented here. The lipids of eolian dusts sampled from the air mass over the eastern Atlantic from about 35 deg N to 30 deg S were analyzed here. These lipids consisted mainly of normal alkanes, carboxylic acids and alcohols. The n-alkanes were found to range from n-C23 to n-C35 with high CPI values and maximizing at n-C27 in the North Atlantic, at n-C29 in the equatorial Atlantic and at n-C31 in the South Atlantic. The n-fatty acids had mostly bimodal distributions, ranging from n-C12 to n-C30 (high CPI), with maxima at n-C16 and in the northern samples at n-C24 and in the southern samples at n-C26. The n-alcohols ranged from n-C12 to n-C32, with high CPI values and maxima mainly at n-C28. The compositions of these lipids indicated that their terrigenous sources were comprised mainly of higher plant vegetation and desiccated lacustrine mud flats on the African continent.

Water and Carbon Footprints for Sustainability Analysis of Urban Infrastructure - abstract

EPA Science Inventory

Water and transportation infrastructures define spatial distribution of urban population and economic activities. In this context, energy and water consumed per capita are tangible measures of how efficient water and transportation systems are constructed and operated. At a hig...

A Rural-Urban Comparison in Emergency Department Visits for U.S. Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zhang, Wanqing; Mason, Ashley E.; Boyd, Brian; Sikich, Linmarie; Baranek, Grace

2017-01-01

We examined rural-urban differences in emergency department visits, and child and clinical characteristics associated with visits for U.S. children aged 3-17 years with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Rural children with ASD were twice more likely to have emergency department visits in urban hospitals than rural children without ASD. The children…

77 FR 51572 - Certain Wireless Consumer Electronics Devices and Components Thereof; Institution of...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-08-24

... Electronics Devices and Components Thereof; Institution of Investigation Pursuant to 19 U.S.C. 1337 AGENCY: U... importation of certain wireless consumer electronics devices and components thereof by reason of infringement... wireless consumer electronics devices and components thereof that infringe one or more of claims 1, 6, 7, 9...

Characterisation and seasonal variations of particles in the atmosphere of rural, urban and industrial areas: Organic compounds.

PubMed

Cazier, Fabrice; Genevray, Paul; Dewaele, Dorothée; Nouali, Habiba; Verdin, Anthony; Ledoux, Frédéric; Hachimi, Adam; Courcot, Lucie; Billet, Sylvain; Bouhsina, Saâd; Shirali, Pirouz; Garçon, Guillaume; Courcot, Dominique

2016-06-01

Atmospheric aerosol samples (PM2.5-0.3, i.e., atmospheric particles ranging from 0.3 to 2.5μm) were collected during two periods: spring-summer 2008 and autumn-winter 2008-2009, using high volume samplers equipped with cascade impactors. Two sites located in the Northern France were compared in this study: a highly industrialised city (Dunkirk) and a rural site (Rubrouck). Physicochemical analysis of particulate matter (PM) was undertaken to propose parameters that could be used to distinguish the various sources and to exhibit seasonal variations but also to provide knowledge of chemical element composition for the interpretation of future toxicological studies. The study showed that PM2.5-0.3 concentration in the atmosphere of the rural area remains stable along the year and was significantly lower than in the urban or industrial ones, for which concentrations increase during winter. High concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), dioxins, furans and dioxin like polychlorinated biphenyls (DL-PCBs), generated by industrial activities, traffic and municipal wastes incineration were detected in the samples. Specific criteria like Carbon Preference Index (CPI) and Combustion PAHs/Total PAHs ratio (CPAHs/TPAHs) were used to identify the possible sources of atmospheric pollution. They revealed that paraffins are mainly emitted by biogenic sources in spring-summer whereas as in the case of PAHs, they have numerous anthropogenic emission sources in autumn-winter (mainly from traffic and domestic heating). Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Composition of semi-volatile organic compounds in the urban atmosphere of Singapore: influence of biomass burning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, J.; Zielinska, B.; Balasubramanian, R.

2010-04-01

An intensive field study was conducted in the urban atmosphere of Singapore to investigate the composition of organic compounds in both gaseous and particulate phases during the period of August to early November 2006. 17 atmospheric samples were collected. These samples were subjected to accelerated solvent extraction with a mixture of dichloromethane and acetone and separated into functional group fractions for analyses by GC/MS. Over 180 organic compounds belonging to three major fractions (n-alkanes, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and polar organic compounds (POCs)) were identified and quantified. The characteristics and abundance of the n-alkanes, PAHs, mono and dicarboxylic acids, methoxylated phenols and other POCs were determined. The composition of these organic compounds fluctuated temporally with most of them being relatively higher in October than those in other months of the sampling period. 3-D backward air mass trajectory analyses together with the carbon preference index (CPI), molecular diagnostic ratios and molecular markers were used to investigate the origin of organic species measured in this study. Based on these diagnostic tools, the increased abundance of atmospheric organic species during October could be attributed to the occurrence of regional smoke haze episodes due to biomass burning in Indonesia. Among the POCs investigated, phthalic acid and cis-pinonic acid showed a strong linear relationship with maximum daily ozone concentration, indicating secondary organic aerosols (SOA) to be an important contributor to ambient atmospheric organics over Singapore.

[Differences in diet intake frequency of adults: findings from half a million people in 10 areas in China].

PubMed

Qin, Chenxi; Yu, Canqing; Du, Huaidong; Guo, Yu; Bian, Zheng; Lyu, Jun; Zhou, Huiyan; Tan, Yunlong; Chen, Junshi; Chen, Zhengming; Li, Liming

2015-09-01

To describe the differences in diet intake frequency of adults in 10 areas surveyed by China Kadoorie Biobank (CKB) project. CKB project recruited voluntary residents aged 30-79 years from 5 urban areas and 5 rural areas in China. The baseline survey was conducted among 512 891 eligible subjects during 2004-2008. The intake frequencies of 12 food groups were assessed through in-person interviews and analyzed. The results were adjusted for age and sex structure of the study population. Rice was the main cereal consumed every day in urban areas (99.0%) and rural areas (99.9%) in southern China, while wheat was the main cereal consumed every day in rural areas (99.0%) and Qingdao (88.4%) in northern China. Most subjects in Henan (98.8%) consumed other staple food every day. The lowest proportion of daily intake of fresh vegetables was observed in Gansu (74.0%) . In both southern and northern areas, urban subjects had higher proportions of daily intakes of fresh fruits, preserved vegetables, and meat than rural subjects. Similar results were found when comparing the proportions of intakes of poultry and fish/seafood at least 1 day every week. Contrast to southern China (urban: 6.5%, rural: 6.9%) , the proportions of daily intake of fresh eggs were higher in both urban areas (37.1%) and rural areas (14.6%) in northern China. The highest proportions of daily intake of soybean products and dairy products were observed in Harbin (10.0%) and Qingdao (34.3%). The intake of cereal, fresh eggs and soybean products differed between the south and the north of China. The intake of meat, poultry, fish/seafood, fresh fruits, preserved vegetables and dairy products varied considerably between urban areas and rural areas.

Urban nutrition: motor or brake for rural development? The Latin American case.

PubMed

Arnauld, J

1983-01-01

The most spectacular backlash of growth of developing countries is the migration of the rural population to the cities, where many families live in deplorable conditions with income below the poverty line. To deal with this situation, most governments have embarked on a policy of subsidizing consumer prices for basic commodities. This policy has proved unfavorable to small farmers, thereby accelerating the migration to cities. Thus we are witnessing an inexorable growth in the labor shortage in rural areas and a surplus of mouths to feed in the urban areas. The problem facing governments is to discover how to reprime the internal food pump and thus reestablish a balanced distribution of the population, and food self-sufficiency for the country. This implies a need for the rehabilitation of food crop production to meet the new and specific requirements of urban consumers, and a need for a thorough knowledge of urban consumption and the factors influencing it. Where budgets are inadequate to meet minimal needs, programs that improve public transportation or housing, could, by reducing the relevant budgetary items, correspondingly increase the food purchasing power of certain socioeconomic groups. Eating habits change with migration to a city. Although in certain countries traditional foods lend themselves to the urban way of life, like the tortilla in Mexico, this is not so with cassava and coarse grains. These basic foods, the only ones that can be produced economically in local ecological conditions, can be processed and packaged to make them acceptable to urban consumers. To reverse the decades-old trend of the rush to the cities will require a sustained political will and the coordination of activities of all kinds.

14 CFR 254.6 - Periodic adjustments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... Aeronautics and Space OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (AVIATION PROCEEDINGS) ECONOMIC REGULATIONS DOMESTIC BAGGAGE LIABILITY § 254.6 Periodic adjustments. The Department of Transportation will... the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers as of July of each review year to calculate the...

Special Interests and Transnational Relations in Agricultural Trade: Implications for United States-Mexico Relations,

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-01-01

their livelihood. U.S. consumers in- directly beccme members of this alliance because their interest in taste, nutrition and price leads them to...factor arises when U.S. consumer groups become involved in the issue. Three elements trigger consumer defense of Mexican tomato imports: price, nutrition ...addition, some consumers prefer Mexican tomatoes because they are vine-ripened, a process utilizing more labor but producing more nutritional and more

Applicability of CHSST Maglev technology for U.S. urban transportation

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2003-06-01

This report discusses the Chubu HSST technology applicability to U.S. urban transportation. This low speed system based on the principle of electromagnetic levitation by attractive suspension and propulsion by vehicle mounted linear induction motors ...

A Meteorological Rocket Data Reduction Program with Automated Temperature Processing.

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-01-01

WRD3 CPI 003Q WORD3 (ZERO) 005A C2 61 00 1490 JNZ WRD4 005D AF 1500 ZERO XRA A 005E C3 C8 00 1510 JMP XMIT 0061 FE 04 1520 WRD4 CPI 004Q WORD4 (HD, TD ...is made by typing (tl, is th, v,.’tii unI ilt o’r ’(:A)I) 8300l:. 0KI . CONTROL MI’H tO ie SVSten rsponds with ’>’, the file PRINT. can t’ examined...hy pro( tss rig the radar ficId tapc DR friIitt td tap s ,ire. aiss i ’d ti ( Fo1rt ran Iop.i I unit I. fhese tjes ire hi r i 1111 ( , )It Int i [Io

Cross-Cultural Consumer Acceptability and Purchase Intent of Forage-Finished Rib-Eye Steaks.

PubMed

Torrico, Damir Dennis; Wardy, Wisdom; Pujols, Kairy Dharali; Carabante, Kennet Mariano; Jirangrat, Wannita; Scaglia, Guillermo; Janes, Marlene E; Prinyawiwatkul, Witoon

2015-10-01

Rib-eye steaks, from 3 forage-finished systems (S1, S2, and S3) and 1 commercial steak (C), either cooked by 1-sided-grilling or 2-sided-grilling, were evaluated for sensory acceptability [overall appearance (ORA) and overall appearance of fat (OAF) for raw steaks; overall appearance (OCA), overall beef aroma (OBA), overall beef flavor (OBF), juiciness, tenderness and overall liking (OL) for cooked steaks] and purchase intent by Hispanic, Asian and U.S. consumers. They also indicated preferred degree of doneness and cooking methods. Cross-cultural differences in preferences and consumer acceptability of rib-eye steaks were observed. Grilling was the most preferred cooking method. Hispanics and Asians preferred medium and/or medium well, while U.S. consumers preferred medium and/or medium rare. For cooked steaks, the population effect was significant for all sensory attributes; Asians generally scored lower than did Hispanics and U.S. consumers. C and S3 generally had higher scores for all sensory attributes across 3 populations. Purchase intent for all forage-finished steaks was higher for Hispanics and U.S. consumers compared to Asians (50.0% to 77.8% compared with 43.2% to 65.9%). Attributes influencing purchase intent of forage-finished steaks differed among populations: tenderness (odds ratio = 1.4) for Hispanics, OCA (odds ratio = 1.5) for Asians, and OBF (odds ratio = 1.3) for U.S. consumers. Overall, this study demonstrated that the type of forage-finished system and ethnic differences influenced sensory acceptability and purchase intent of forage-finished rib-eye steaks. Demand for forage-finished beef has increased worldwide due to its potential health benefits. Little is known regarding the cross-cultural effects on the consumer acceptance of forage-finished beef. We evaluated sensory acceptance and purchase intent of raw and cooked forage-finished rib-eye steaks using Hispanic, Asian, and U.S. (White and African American) populations. This study demonstrated that consumer acceptability and purchase intent of forage-finished rib-eye steaks differed among Hispanic, Asian, and U.S. populations. This information can be used to guide development and marketing strategies for beef products. © 2015 Institute of Food Technologists®

District Policies and Practices Vary in Their Association With Adolescents' Consumption of Milk and 100% Fruit Juice.

PubMed

Sliwa, Sarah A; Miller, Gabrielle F; Brener, Nancy D; Park, Sohyun; Merlo, Caitlin L

2017-05-01

Researchers previously examined the relationship between school beverage policies and sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption. This study addressed a research gap by examining cross-sectional associations between district-level policies and practices and U.S. high school students' consumption of milk and 100% fruit juice. Data from the 2012 School Health Policies and Practices Study and 2013 Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System were linked for 12 large urban school districts. Outcome variables were daily milk consumption (≥1 glass/day) and 100% fruit juice consumption (≥1 time/day). Exposure variables were five district policies (i.e., restrict SSB sales, maintain closed campuses, offer/sell healthful alternatives, restrict promotional products, and require nutrition education). Logistic regression models estimated the odds of consuming milk or 100% fruit juice daily, conditional on the policies and adjusting for sex, race/ethnicity, grade level, weight status, and district free/reduced-price lunch eligibility (n = 23,173). Students in districts that required/recommended restricting the times of SSB sales had 55% higher (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 1.55; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.28-1.87) odds of consuming ≥1 glass/day of milk than students in districts without this policy. Closed campus policies were associated with lower odds of consuming milk (AOR, .72; 95% CI, .63-.82) and higher odds of consuming juice (AOR, 1.27; 95% CI, 1.07-1.50). Policies requiring/recommending that districts offer/sell healthful alternatives were associated with lower odds of consuming 100% fruit juice daily. Results suggest that restricting SSB sales may support adolescents' milk consumption. Future studies should assess whether the implementation of federal standards that further restrict SSB sales in school leads to increased milk consumption. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Few differences in diet and health behaviors and perceptions were observed in adult urban Native American Indians by tribal association, gender, and age grouping.

PubMed

Carter, Tina L; Morse, Kristin L; Giraud, David W; Driskell, Judy A

2008-12-01

Diet and health behaviors and perceptions of adult urban Native American Indians in a large Midwestern city were evaluated for differences by tribal association, gender, and age grouping. The hypothesis was that human behavior is influenced by tribal association, gender, and age grouping in the subject population. The subjects included 33 men and 32 women, with 26 being Sioux; 22 Omaha; and 17 a combination of other tribes. The descriptive survey included two interviewer-administered 24-hour recalls. The majority of subjects were overweight or obese. Significant differences (P< .05) were observed in vitamin A and calcium intakes by tribal association. Men reported consuming significantly more (P< .05) kilocalories, vitamin C, and sodium. Over half the subjects consumed more than the recommended 20% to 35% kcal from fat, >or=10% kcal from saturated fat, and >or=300 mg cholesterol/d. Less than Estimated Average Requirements for vitamin A, vitamin C, and iron were consumed by 31%, 59%, and 6%, respectively; 79% consumed less than Adequate Intakes for calcium. Ninety-two percent consumed more than the Tolerable Upper Intake Level for sodium. Few differences were observed in the kilocalorie, vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and sodium intakes of these Native American Indians by tribal association, gender, or age grouping. Significant differences in percentages consuming alcohol were observed by gender (P< .05) and by age grouping (P< .01). A significant difference (P< .01) was observed by gender regarding the subjects' perceptions of their being alcoholics. Overall, few differences were observed in diet and health behaviors and perceptions of adult urban Native American Indians by tribal association, gender, and age grouping.

Lead Exposures in U.S. Children, 2008: Implications for Prevention

PubMed Central

Levin, Ronnie; Brown, Mary Jean; Kashtock, Michael E.; Jacobs, David E.; Whelan, Elizabeth A.; Rodman, Joanne; Schock, Michael R.; Padilla, Alma; Sinks, Thomas

2008-01-01

Objective We reviewed the sources of lead in the environments of U.S. children, contributions to children’s blood lead levels, source elimination and control efforts, and existing federal authorities. Our context is the U.S. public health goal to eliminate pediatric elevated blood lead levels (EBLs) by 2010. Data sources National, state, and local exposure assessments over the past half century have identified risk factors for EBLs among U.S. children, including age, race, income, age and location of housing, parental occupation, and season. Data extraction and synthesis Recent national policies have greatly reduced lead exposure among U.S. children, but even very low exposure levels compromise children’s later intellectual development and lifetime achievement. No threshold for these effects has been demonstrated. Although lead paint and dust may still account for up to 70% of EBLs in U.S. children, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that ≥30% of current EBLs do not have an immediate lead paint source, and numerous studies indicate that lead exposures result from multiple sources. EBLs and even deaths have been associated with inadequately controlled sources including ethnic remedies and goods, consumer products, and food-related items such as ceramics. Lead in public drinking water and in older urban centers remain exposure sources in many areas. Conclusions Achieving the 2010 goal requires maintaining current efforts, especially programs addressing lead paint, while developing interventions that prevent exposure before children are poisoned. It also requires active collaboration across all levels of government to identify and control all potential sources of lead exposure, as well as primary prevention. PMID:18941567

Lead exposures in U.S. Children, 2008: implications for prevention.

PubMed

Levin, Ronnie; Brown, Mary Jean; Kashtock, Michael E; Jacobs, David E; Whelan, Elizabeth A; Rodman, Joanne; Schock, Michael R; Padilla, Alma; Sinks, Thomas

2008-10-01

We reviewed the sources of lead in the environments of U.S. children, contributions to children's blood lead levels, source elimination and control efforts, and existing federal authorities. Our context is the U.S. public health goal to eliminate pediatric elevated blood lead levels (EBLs) by 2010. National, state, and local exposure assessments over the past half century have identified risk factors for EBLs among U.S. children, including age, race, income, age and location of housing, parental occupation, and season. Recent national policies have greatly reduced lead exposure among U.S. children, but even very low exposure levels compromise children's later intellectual development and lifetime achievement. No threshold for these effects has been demonstrated. Although lead paint and dust may still account for up to 70% of EBLs in U.S. children, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that >or=30% of current EBLs do not have an immediate lead paint source, and numerous studies indicate that lead exposures result from multiple sources. EBLs and even deaths have been associated with inadequately controlled sources including ethnic remedies and goods, consumer products, and food-related items such as ceramics. Lead in public drinking water and in older urban centers remain exposure sources in many areas. Achieving the 2010 goal requires maintaining current efforts, especially programs addressing lead paint, while developing interventions that prevent exposure before children are poisoned. It also requires active collaboration across all levels of government to identify and control all potential sources of lead exposure, as well as primary prevention.

The State of U.S. Urban Water: Data and the Energy-Water Nexus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chini, Christopher M.; Stillwell, Ashlynn S.

2018-03-01

Data on urban water resources are scarce, despite a majority of the U.S. population residing in urban environments. Further, information on the energy required to facilitate the treatment, distribution, and collection of urban water are even more limited. In this study, we evaluate the energy-for-water component of the energy-water nexus by providing and analyzing a unique primary database consisting of drinking water and wastewater utility flows and energy. These anthropogenic fluxes of water through the urban environment are used to assess the state of the U.S. urban energy-water nexus at over 160 utilities. The average daily per person water flux is estimated at 560 L of drinking water and 500 L of wastewater. Drinking water and wastewater utilities require 340 kWh/1,000 m3 and 430 kWh/1,000 m3 of energy, respectively, to treat these resources. The total national energy demand for water utilities accounts for 1.0% of the total annual electricity consumption of the United States. Additionally, the water and embedded energy loss associated with non-revenue water accounts for 9.1 × 109 m3 of water and 3,100 GWh, enough electricity to power 300,000 U.S. households annually. Finally, the water flux and embedded energy fluctuated monthly in many cities. As the nation's water resources become increasingly scarce and unpredictable, it is essential to have a set of empirical data for continuous evaluation and updates on the state of the U.S. urban energy-water nexus.

Going public: accessing urban data and producing population estimates using the urban FIA database

Treesearch

Chris Edgar; Mark Hatfield

2015-01-01

In this presentation we describe the urban forest inventory database (U-FIADB) and demonstrate how to use the database to produce population estimates. Examples from the recently completed City of Austin inventory will be used to demonstrate the capabilities of the database. We will identify several features of U-FIADB that are different from the FIA database (FIADB)...

Urban forests' potential to supply marketable carbon emission offsets: a survey of municipal governments in the United States

Treesearch

Neelam C. Poudyal; Jacek P. Siry; J. M. Bowker

2010-01-01

This study assesses the motivation, willingness, and technical as well as managerial capacities of U.S. cities to store carbon and sell carbon offsets. Based on a national survey of urban foresters, arborists, and other officials responsible for urban forest management within U.S. municipal governments, results indicate that local governments are interested in selling...

Hypnagogic Exploration: Sleep Positions and Personality.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Domino, George; Bohn, Sarah Ann

1980-01-01

Sleep positions, particularly the full fetal position, appear to be related to California Psychological Inventory (CPI) variables of sociability, sense of well being, achievement by conformance, femininity, and social maturity. (Author)

The Misunderstood Problem of Consumer Protection in Japan: The Roles of Lawyers and the Government.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Waxman, Michael Peter

1995-01-01

Introduces the role of law and government in consumer protection in Japan. Suggests that recognition of cultural differences between U.S. and Japanese societies can provide insights that will stimulate the U.S. consumer movement to confront the anticonsumer structures in Japan while respecting their internal values. (Author/JOW)

Time trends and patterns of reported egg consumption in the U.S. by sociodemographic characteristics

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Objectives: To 1) describe time trends of the percentage of individuals in the U.S that consume eggs, 2) describe time trends of the daily amount of eggs consumed per day, and 3) examine differences in the amount of eggs consumed per day; overall and by gender, age, income, education, race-ethnicit...

Consumer Trust in the U.S. Food System: An Examination of the Recreancy Theorem

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sapp, Stephen G.; Arnot, Charlie; Fallon, James; Fleck, Terry; Soorholtz, David; Sutton-Vermeulen, Matt; Wilson, Jannette J. H.

2009-01-01

Because consumer opinions to an increasing extent affect the structure and management of the U.S. food system, it is important for social scientists to accurately model consumer trust in this system so they can better understand and anticipate public responses to existing or proposed food-related regulatory policies and facilitate effective…

78 FR 76033 - Truth in Lending (Regulation Z)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-12-16

... BUREAU OF CONSUMER FINANCIAL PROTECTION 12 CFR Part 1026 Truth in Lending (Regulation Z) AGENCY... Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure Act of 2009 (CARD Act) and the Home Ownership and... re-calculated annually using the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers...

Air quality and urban form in U.S. urban areas: evidence from regulatory monitors.

PubMed

Clark, Lara P; Millet, Dylan B; Marshall, Julian D

2011-08-15

The layout of an urban area can impact air pollution via changes in emissions and their spatial distribution. Here, we explore relationships between air quality and urban form based on cross-sectional observations for 111 U.S. urban areas. We employ stepwise linear regression to quantify how long-term population-weighted outdoor concentrations of ozone, fine particulate matter (PM(2.5)), and other criteria pollutants measured by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency depend on urban form, climate, transportation, city size, income, and region. Aspects of urban form evaluated here include city shape, road density, jobs-housing imbalance, population density, and population centrality. We find that population density is associated with higher population-weighted PM(2.5) concentrations (p < 0.01); population centrality is associated with lower population-weighted ozone and PM(2.5) concentrations (p < 0.01); and transit supply is associated with lower population-weighted PM(2.5) concentrations (p < 0.1). Among pollutants, interquartile range changes in urban form variables are associated with 4%-12% changes in population-weighted concentrations-amounts comparable, for example, to changes in climatic factors. Our empirical findings are consistent with prior modeling research and suggest that urban form could potentially play a modest but important role in achieving (or not achieving) long-term air quality goals.

Trends in childhood mortality in Kenya: The urban advantage has seemingly been wiped out

PubMed Central

Kimani-Murage, E.W.; Fotso, J.C.; Egondi, T.; Abuya, B.; Elungata, P.; Ziraba, A.K.; Kabiru, C.W.; Madise, N.

2014-01-01

Background We describe trends in childhood mortality in Kenya, paying attention to the urban–rural and intra-urban differentials. Methods We use data from the Kenya Demographic and Health Surveys (KDHS) collected between 1993 and 2008 and the Nairobi Urban Health and Demographic Surveillance System (NUHDSS) collected in two Nairobi slums between 2003 and 2010, to estimate infant mortality rate (IMR), child mortality rate (CMR) and under-five mortality rate (U5MR). Results Between 1993 and 2008, there was a downward trend in IMR, CMR and U5MR in both rural and urban areas. The decline was more rapid and statistically significant in rural areas but not in urban areas, hence the gap in urban–rural differentials narrowed over time. There was also a downward trend in childhood mortality in the slums between 2003 and 2010 from 83 to 57 for IMR, 33 to 24 for CMR, and 113 to 79 for U5MR, although the rates remained higher compared to those for rural and non-slum urban areas in Kenya. Conclusions The narrowing gap between urban and rural areas may be attributed to the deplorable living conditions in urban slums. To reduce childhood mortality, extra emphasis is needed on the urban slums. PMID:25024120