The Impact of the Navy’s Tuition Assistance Program on the Retention and Promotion of First-term Sailors

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-06-12

first few months. Hence, much attrition is non-voluntary, and the portion that is voluntary is due to maladjustment to military life. In addition...may view military service as a vehicle for social advancement, and they have a higher propensity for using military benefits. They also may be less...System (ACES) on soldier retention and performance: Data analysis. Alexandria, VA: US Army Research Institute for the Behavioral and Social Sciences

Greater Neural Adaptations following High- vs. Low-Load Resistance Training

PubMed Central

Jenkins, Nathaniel D. M.; Miramonti, Amelia A.; Hill, Ethan C.; Smith, Cory M.; Cochrane-Snyman, Kristen C.; Housh, Terry J.; Cramer, Joel T.

2017-01-01

We examined the neuromuscular adaptations following 3 and 6 weeks of 80 vs. 30% one repetition maximum (1RM) resistance training to failure in the leg extensors. Twenty-six men (age = 23.1 ± 4.7 years) were randomly assigned to a high- (80% 1RM; n = 13) or low-load (30% 1RM; n = 13) resistance training group and completed leg extension resistance training to failure 3 times per week for 6 weeks. Testing was completed at baseline, 3, and 6 weeks of training. During each testing session, ultrasound muscle thickness and echo intensity, 1RM strength, maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) strength, and contractile properties of the quadriceps femoris were measured. Percent voluntary activation (VA) and electromyographic (EMG) amplitude were measured during MVIC, and during randomly ordered isometric step muscle actions at 10–100% of baseline MVIC. There were similar increases in muscle thickness from Baseline to Week 3 and 6 in the 80 and 30% 1RM groups. However, both 1RM and MVIC strength increased from Baseline to Week 3 and 6 to a greater degree in the 80% than 30% 1RM group. VA during MVIC was also greater in the 80 vs. 30% 1RM group at Week 6, and only training at 80% 1RM elicited a significant increase in EMG amplitude during MVIC. The peak twitch torque to MVIC ratio was also significantly reduced in the 80%, but not 30% 1RM group, at Week 3 and 6. Finally, VA and EMG amplitude were reduced during submaximal torque production as a result of training at 80% 1RM, but not 30% 1RM. Despite eliciting similar hypertrophy, 80% 1RM improved muscle strength more than 30% 1RM, and was accompanied by increases in VA and EMG amplitude during maximal force production. Furthermore, training at 80% 1RM resulted in a decreased neural cost to produce the same relative submaximal torques after training, whereas training at 30% 1RM did not. Therefore, our data suggest that high-load training results in greater neural adaptations that may explain the disparate increases in muscle strength despite similar hypertrophy following high- and low-load training programs. PMID:28611677

78 FR 38693 - Submission for OMB review; comment request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-27

..., including weapons systems critical to the national defense. Affected Public: Business or other For-Profit, and Not-For-Profit institutions. Frequency: On occasion. Respondent's Obligation: Voluntary. OMB Desk... Information Management Division, 4800 Mark Center Drive, East Tower, Suite 02G09, Alexandria, VA 22350-3100...

Neuromuscular adaptations associated with knee joint angle-specific force change.

PubMed

Noorkõiv, Marika; Nosaka, Kazunori; Blazevich, Anthony J

2014-08-01

Neuromuscular adaptations to joint angle-specific force increases after isometric training have not yet been fully elucidated. This study examined angle-specific neuromuscular adaptations in response to isometric knee extension training at short (SL, joint angle 38.1° ± 3.7°) versus long (LL, 87.5° ± 6.0°) muscle lengths. Sixteen men trained three times a week for 6 wk either at SL (n = 8) or LL (n = 8). Voluntary maximal isometric knee extensor (MVC) force, doublet twitch force, EMG amplitudes (EMG/Mmax), and voluntary activation during MVC force (VA%) were measured at eight knee joint angles (30°-100°) at weeks 0, 3, and 6. Muscle volume and cross-sectional area (CSA) were measured from magnetic resonance imaging scans, and fascicle length (Lf) was assessed using ultrasonography before and after training. Clear joint angle specificity of force increase was seen in SL but not in LL. The 13.4% ± 9.7% (P = 0.01) force increase around the training angle in SL was related to changes in vastus lateralis and vastus medialis EMG/Mmax around the training angle (r = 0.84-0.88, P < 0.05), without changes in the doublet twitch force-angle relation or muscle size. In LL, muscle volume and CSA increased and the changes in CSA at specific muscle regions were correlated with changes in MVC force. A 5.4% ± 4.9% (P = 0.001) increase in Lf found in both groups was not associated with angle-specific force changes. There were no angle-specific changes in VA%. The EMG/Mmax, although not VA%, results suggest that neural adaptations underpinned training-related changes at short quadriceps lengths, but hypertrophic changes predominated after training at long lengths. The findings of this study should contribute to the development of more effective and evidence-based rehabilitation and strength training protocols.

Contraction velocity influence the magnitude and etiology of neuromuscular fatigue during repeated maximal contractions.

PubMed

Morel, B; Clémençon, M; Rota, S; Millet, G Y; Bishop, D J; Brosseau, O; Rouffet, D M; Hautier, C A

2015-10-01

This study aimed to compare the magnitude and etiology of neuromuscular fatigue during maximal repeated contractions performed in two contraction modes (concentric vs isometric) and at two contraction velocities (30/s vs 240°/s). Eleven lower limb-trained males performed 20 sets of maximal contractions at three different angular velocities: 0°/s (KE0), 30/s (KE30), and 240°/s (KE240). Cumulated work, number of contraction, duty cycle, and contraction time were controlled. Torque, superimposed and resting twitches, as well as gas exchange, were analyzed. Increasing contraction velocity was associated with greater maximal voluntary torque loss (KE0: -9.8 ± 3.9%; KE30: -16.4 ± 8.5%; KE240: -32.6 ± 6.3%; P < 0.05). Interestingly, the torque decrease was similar for a given cumulated work. Compared with KE0, KE240 generated a greater evoked torque loss (Db100: -24.3 ± 5.3% vs -5.9 ± 6.9%; P < 0.001), a higher O2 consumption (23.7 ± 6.4 mL/min/kg vs 15.7 ± 3.8 mL/min/kg; P < 0.001), but a lower voluntary activation (VA) loss (-4.3 ± 1.6% vs -11.2 ± 4.9%; P < 0.001). The neuromuscular perturbations were intermediate for KE30 (Db100: -10.0 ± 6.8%; VA: -7.2 ± 2.8%). Although the amount of mechanical work cumulated strongly determined the magnitude of torque decrease, the contraction velocity and mode influenced the origin of the neuromuscular fatigue. The metabolic stress and peripheral fatigue increased but reduction of VA is attenuated when the contraction velocity increased from 0°/s to 240°/s. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Shortening-induced torque depression in old men: implications for age-related power loss.

PubMed

Power, Geoffrey A; Makrakos, Demetri P; Stevens, Daniel E; Herzog, Walter; Rice, Charles L; Vandervoort, Anthony A

2014-09-01

Following active muscle shortening, the steady-state isometric torque at the final muscle length is lower than the steady-state torque obtained for a purely isometric contraction at that same final muscle length. This well-documented property of skeletal muscle is termed shortening-induced torque depression (TD). Despite many investigations into the mechanisms of weakness and power loss in old age, the influence of muscle shortening on the history dependence of isometric torque production remains to be elucidated. Thus, it is unclear whether older adults are disadvantaged for torque and power production following a dynamic shortening contraction. The purpose of this study was to evaluate shortening-induced TD in older adults, and to determine whether shortening-induced TD is related to power loss. Maximal voluntary isometric dorsiflexion contractions (MVC; 10s) in 8 young (25.5±3.7years) and 9 old (76.1±5.4years) men were performed on a HUMAC NORM dynamometer as a reference, and then again following an active shortening of 40° joint excursion (40°PF-0°PF) at angular velocities of 15°/s and 120°/s. Work and instantaneous power were derived during shortening. Shortening-induced TD was calculated and expressed as a percentage by determining the mean torque value over 1s during the isometric steady state of the MVC following shortening, divided by the mean torque value for the same 1s time period during the isometric reference MVC. To assess muscle activation, electromyography (root mean square; EMGRMS) of the tibialis anterior (TA) and soleus (SOL) was calculated at identical time points used in assessing shortening-induced TD, and voluntary activation (VA) was assessed using the interpolated twitch technique. Old were 18% weaker than young for MVC, and ~40% less powerful for 15°/s and 120°/s of shortening. Old produced 37% and 21% less work for 15°/s and 120°/s than young, respectively. Furthermore, old experienced 60% and 70% greater shortening-induced TD than young for 15°/s and 120°/s, respectively with similar EMGRMS and VA across all conditions. A significant relationship between shortening-induced TD and instantaneous power was found only at the fast angular velocity for both the old (R(2)=0.32) and young (R(2)=0.45) men. The older men experienced greater shortening-induced TD than young while maintaining similar levels of voluntary activation. This previously unaccounted for history-dependent property of muscle may provide insight into power loss in old age. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Pacing Strategy, Muscle Fatigue, and Technique in 1500-m Speed-Skating and Cycling Time Trials.

PubMed

Stoter, Inge K; MacIntosh, Brian R; Fletcher, Jared R; Pootz, Spencer; Zijdewind, Inge; Hettinga, Florentina J

2016-04-01

To evaluate pacing behavior and peripheral and central contributions to muscle fatigue in 1500-m speed-skating and cycling time trials when a faster or slower start is instructed. Nine speed skaters and 9 cyclists, all competing at regional or national level, performed two 1500-m time trials in their sport. Athletes were instructed to start faster than usual in 1 trial and slower in the other. Mean velocity was measured per 100 m. Blood lactate concentrations were measured. Maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), voluntary activation (VA), and potentiated twitch (PT) of the quadriceps muscles were measured to estimate central and peripheral contributions to muscle fatigue. In speed skating, knee, hip, and trunk angles were measured to evaluate technique. Cyclists showed a more explosive start than speed skaters in the fast-start time trial (cyclists performed first 300 m in 24.70 ± 1.73 s, speed skaters in 26.18 ± 0.79 s). Both trials resulted in reduced MVC (12.0% ± 14.5%), VA (2.4% ± 5.0%), and PT (25.4% ± 15.2%). Blood lactate concentrations after the time trial and the decrease in PT were greater in the fast-start than in the slow-start trial. Speed skaters showed higher trunk angles in the fast-start than in the slow-start trial, while knee angles remained similar. Despite similar instructions, behavioral adaptations in pacing differed between the 2 sports, resulting in equal central and peripheral contributions to muscle fatigue in both sports. This provides evidence for the importance of neurophysiological aspects in the regulation of pacing. It also stresses the notion that optimal pacing needs to be studied sport specifically, and coaches should be aware of this.

Voluntary and involuntary childlessness in female veterans: associations with sexual assault.

PubMed

Ryan, Ginny L; Mengeling, Michelle A; Booth, Brenda M; Torner, James C; Syrop, Craig H; Sadler, Anne G

2014-08-01

To assess associations between lifetime sexual assault and childlessness in female veterans. Cross-sectional, computer-assisted telephone interview study. Two Midwestern Veterans Administration (VA) medical centers. A total of 1,004 women aged ≤52 years, VA-enrolled between 2000 and 2008. None. Sociodemographic variables, reproductive history and care utilization, and mental health. A total of 620 veterans (62%) reported at least one attempted or completed sexual assault in their lifetime (LSA). Veterans with LSA more often self-reported a history of pregnancy termination (31% vs. 19%) and infertility (23% vs. 12%), as well as sexually transmitted infection (42% vs. 27%), posttraumatic stress disorder (32% vs. 10%), and postpartum dysphoria (62% vs. 44%). Lifetime sexual assault was independently associated with termination and infertility in multivariate models; sexually transmitted infection, posttraumatic stress disorder, and postpartum dysphoria were not. The LSA by period of life was as follows: 41% of participants in childhood, 15% in adulthood before the military, 33% in military, and 13% after the military (not mutually exclusive). Among the 511 who experienced a completed LSA, 23% self-reported delaying or foregoing pregnancy because of their assault. This study demonstrated associations between sexual assault history and pregnancy termination, delay or avoidance (voluntary childlessness), and infertility (involuntary childlessness) among female veterans. Improved gender-specific veteran medical care must attend to these reproductive complexities. Copyright © 2014 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. All rights reserved.

Separation of large mammalian ventricular myosin differing in ATPase activity.

PubMed

Rupp, Heinz; Maisch, Bernhard

2007-01-01

To investigate a possible heterogeneity of human ventricular myosin, papillary muscles of patients with valvular dysfunction were examined using a modified native gel electrophoresis. Myosin was separated into 2 components termed VA and VB, whereby the VA to VB proportion appeared to depend on the ventricular load. The proportion of the faster migrating band VA was correlated (P<0.05) with end-diastolic pressure and the aortic pressure-cardiac index product. The regression based on these variables accounted for 67% of the variation in VA (R2=0.67). The VA proportion was, however, not significantly correlated with cardiac norepinephrine concentration. The ATPase activity of the 2 components of myosin was assessed from the Ca3(PO4)2 precipitation by incubating the gel in the presence of ATP and CaCl2. The ATPase activity of VA was 60% of that of VB. The VA and VB forms were observed also in the cat (31.4% VA), dog (32.1% VA), pig (28.5% VA), wild pig (33.7% VA), and roe deer (30.5% VA). VA and VB were not detected in the rat exhibiting the 3 isoforms V1, V2, and V3, rabbit (100% V3), and hare (86% V1). The data demonstrate a heterogeneity of large mammalian ventricular myosin, whereby an increased cardiac load appeared to be associated with a higher myosin VA proportion that exhibited a reduced ATPase activity.

76 FR 40453 - Agency Information Collection (Application for VA Education Benefits) Activity Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-07-08

... (Application for VA Education Benefits) Activity Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits Administration... Education Benefits, VA Form 22-1990. b. Application for Family Member to Use Transferred Benefits, VA Form 22-1990E. [[Page 40454

76 FR 27381 - Proposed Information Collection (Notice of Waiver of VA Compensation or Pension To Receive...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-05-11

... of Waiver of VA Compensation or Pension To Receive Military Pay and Allowances) Activity; Comment... Pension to Receive Military Pay and Allowances, VA Form 21-8951 and VA Form 21-8951-2. OMB Control Number... to waive VA disability benefits in order to receive active or inactive duty training pay are required...

76 FR 24570 - Proposed Information Collection (Application for VA Education Benefits) Activity; Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-05-02

... (Application for VA Education Benefits) Activity; Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA... Under the Montgomery GI Bill, VA Form 22-1990E. c. Application for VA Education Benefits Under the...

Suppression of RNA Interference by Adenovirus Virus-Associated RNA†

PubMed Central

Andersson, M. Gunnar; Haasnoot, P. C. Joost; Xu, Ning; Berenjian, Saideh; Berkhout, Ben; Akusjärvi, Göran

2005-01-01

We show that human adenovirus inhibits RNA interference (RNAi) at late times of infection by suppressing the activity of two key enzyme systems involved, Dicer and RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC). To define the mechanisms by which adenovirus blocks RNAi, we used a panel of mutant adenoviruses defective in virus-associated (VA) RNA expression. The results show that the virus-associated RNAs, VA RNAI and VA RNAII, function as suppressors of RNAi by interfering with the activity of Dicer. The VA RNAs bind Dicer and function as competitive substrates squelching Dicer. Further, we show that VA RNAI and VA RNAII are processed by Dicer, both in vitro and during a lytic infection, and that the resulting short interfering RNAs (siRNAs) are incorporated into active RISC. Dicer cleaves the terminal stem of both VA RNAI and VA RNAII. However, whereas both strands of the VA RNAI-specific siRNA are incorporated into RISC, the 3′ strand of the VA RNAII-specific siRNA is selectively incorporated during a lytic infection. In summary, our work shows that adenovirus suppresses RNAi during a lytic infection and gives insight into the mechanisms of RNAi suppression by VA RNA. PMID:16014917

Isolation and characterization of a 17-kDa FKBP-type peptidyl-prolyl cis/trans isomerase from Vibrio anguillarum.

PubMed

Jo, Geon-A; Lee, Jong Min; No, Gyuyou; Kang, Dong Seop; Kim, So-Hyun; Ahn, Sun-Hee; Kong, In-Soo

2015-06-01

Peptidyl-prolyl cis/trans isomerase (PPIase) catalyzes the isomerization of peptide bonds to achieve conformational changes in native folded proteins. An FKBP-type PPIase with an approximate molecular weight of 17kDa was isolated from Vibrio anguillarum O1 and named VaFKBP17. To investigate its biochemical properties, the ppi gene from V. anguillarum O1 was isolated and overexpressed in Escherichia coli. A protease-coupled assay for isomerization activity, using Succinyl-Ala-Phe-Pro-Phe-p nitroanilide as substrate, indicated that the activity of VaFKBP17 was highest at low temperature (5°C) and alkaline conditions (pH 10). The immunosuppressant FK506 inhibited the isomerization activity of VaFKBP17. The chaperone activity of VaFKBP17 was assessed using a citrate synthase thermal aggregation activity assay. To evaluate its ability to catalyze protein refolding, the effect of VaFKBP17 on inclusion bodies was investigated during a dilution process. In this assay, VaFKBP17 was able to assist protein refolding. These results provide evidence that VaFKBP17 possesses chaperone-like activity. The structural homology of VaFKBP17 relative to other known bacterial FKBPs was also examined. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

78 FR 6849 - Agency Information Collection (Verification of VA Benefits) Activity Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-01-31

... (Verification of VA Benefits) Activity Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of... ``OMB Control No. 2900-0406.'' SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Title: Verification of VA Benefits, VA Form 26... eliminate unlimited versions of lender- designed forms. The form also informs the lender whether or not the...

Women at Altitude: Voluntary Muscle Exercise Performance with and Without a-Adrenergic Receptor Blockage

DTIC Science & Technology

1999-02-01

a^c^lXl^^^n " T "Ś °’Jny other asPect of this Davis Highway, Suite 1204, Arlington, VA 22202-4302, and to the Office of M,n.^,m1iraifl& 1. AGENCY...OF TABLES and FIGURES iv BACKGROUND v ACKNOWLEDGMENTS vi EXECUTIVE SUMMARY j INTRODUCTION _ 2 METHODS 3 Subjects 3 Study Design 3...arrival) and 11th days of altitude residence. Total travel time by airplane and 3 t 1 < automobile from California to the summit of Pikes Peak was

76 FR 44086 - Agency Information Collection (Notice of Waiver of VA Compensation or Pension To Receive Military...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-07-22

... of Waiver of VA Compensation or Pension To Receive Military Pay and Allowances) Activity Under OMB....'' SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Title: Notice of Waiver of VA Compensation or Pension to Receive Military Pay and... order to receive active or inactive duty training pay are required to complete VA Forms 21-8951 and 21...

Duration-dependant response of mixed-method pre-cooling for intermittent-sprint exercise in the heat.

PubMed

Minett, Geoffrey M; Duffield, Rob; Marino, Frank E; Portus, Marc

2012-10-01

This study examined the effects of pre-cooling duration on performance and neuromuscular function for self-paced intermittent-sprint shuttle running in the heat. Eight male, team-sport athletes completed two 35-min bouts of intermittent-sprint shuttle running separated by a 15-min recovery on three separate occasions (33°C, 34% relative humidity). Mixed-method pre-cooling was completed for 20 min (COOL20), 10-min (COOL10) or no cooling (CONT) and reapplied for 5-min mid-exercise. Performance was assessed via sprint times, percentage decline and shuttle-running distance covered. Maximal voluntary contractions (MVC), voluntary activation (VA) and evoked twitch properties were recorded pre- and post-intervention and mid- and post-exercise. Core temperature (T (c)), skin temperature, heart rate, capillary blood metabolites, sweat losses, perceptual exertion and thermal stress were monitored throughout. Venous blood draws pre- and post-exercise were analyzed for muscle damage and inflammation markers. Shuttle-running distances covered were increased 5.2 ± 3.3% following COOL20 (P < 0.05), with no differences observed between COOL10 and CONT (P > 0.05). COOL20 aided in the maintenance of mid- and post-exercise MVC (P < 0.05; d > 0.80), despite no conditional differences in VA (P > 0.05). Pre-exercise T (c) was reduced by 0.15 ± 0.13°C with COOL20 (P < 0.05; d > 1.10), and remained lower throughout both COOL20 and COOL10 compared to CONT (P < 0.05; d > 0.80). Pre-cooling reduced sweat losses by 0.4 ± 0.3 kg (P < 0.02; d > 1.15), with COOL20 0.2 ± 0.4 kg less than COOL10 (P = 0.19; d = 1.01). Increased pre-cooling duration lowered physiological demands during exercise heat stress and facilitated the maintenance of self-paced intermittent-sprint performance in the heat. Importantly, the dose-response interaction of pre-cooling and sustained neuromuscular responses may explain the improved exercise performance in hot conditions.

Adenovirus vectors lacking virus-associated RNA expression enhance shRNA activity to suppress hepatitis C virus replication

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pei, Zheng; Shi, Guoli; Kondo, Saki; Ito, Masahiko; Maekawa, Aya; Suzuki, Mariko; Saito, Izumu; Suzuki, Tetsuro; Kanegae, Yumi

2013-12-01

First-generation adenovirus vectors (FG AdVs) expressing short-hairpin RNA (shRNA) effectively downregulate the expressions of target genes. However, this vector, in fact, expresses not only the transgene product, but also virus-associated RNAs (VA RNAs) that disturb cellular RNAi machinery. We have established a production method for VA-deleted AdVs lacking expression of VA RNAs. Here, we showed that the highest shRNA activity was obtained when the shRNA was inserted not at the popularly used E1 site, but at the E4 site. We then compared the activities of shRNAs against hepatitis C virus (HCV) expressed from VA-deleted AdVs or conventional AdVs. The VA-deleted AdVs inhibited HCV production much more efficiently. Therefore, VA-deleted AdVs were more effective than the currently used AdVs for shRNA downregulation, probably because of the lack of competition between VA RNAs and the shRNAs. These VA-deleted AdVs might enable more effective gene therapies for chronic hepatitis C.

77 FR 3844 - Proposed Information Collection (Dependents' Application for VA Educational Benefits) Activity...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-01-25

... use of other forms of information technology. Title: Dependents' Application for VA Educational... (Dependents' Application for VA Educational Benefits) Activity; Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans Benefits...' Educational Assistance and Fry Scholarship benefits. DATES: Written comments and recommendations on the...

Determination of VA health care costs.

PubMed

Barnett, Paul G

2003-09-01

In the absence of billing data, alternative methods are used to estimate the cost of hospital stays, outpatient visits, and treatment innovations in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The choice of method represents a trade-off between accuracy and research cost. The direct measurement method gathers information on staff activities, supplies, equipment, space, and workload. Since it is expensive, direct measurement should be reserved for finding short-run costs, evaluating provider efficiency, or determining the cost of treatments that are innovative or unique to VA. The pseudo-bill method combines utilization data with a non-VA reimbursement schedule. The cost regression method estimates the cost of VA hospital stays by applying the relationship between cost and characteristics of non-VA hospitalizations. The Health Economics Resource Center uses pseudo-bill and cost regression methods to create an encounter-level database of VA costs. Researchers are also beginning to use the VA activity-based cost allocation system.

Different responses of vanillic acid, a phenolic compound, in HTC cells: cytotoxicity, antiproliferative activity, and protection from DNA-induced damage.

PubMed

Almeida, I V; Cavalcante, F M L; Vicentini, V E P

2016-12-19

The consumption of healthy and natural foods has increased over the last few years, primarily because these foods are rich in substances with biological properties of interest, such as exerting anticancer effects and decreasing oxidative stress in living tissues. These foods support adequate nutrition, maintain health, and improve quality of life. Vanillic acid (VA) is a phenolic compound used widely in the food industry as a flavoring, preservative, and food additive. VA can be found in various cereals, whole grains, fruits, herbs, green tea, juices, beers, and wines and possesses antioxidant, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, and antiapoptotic activities. Studying the cytotoxicity as well as the mutagenic and antimutagenic effects of different concentrations of VA in Rattus norvegicus hepatoma cells (HTC) can identify new cellular activities of this substance. Concentrations up to 100 µM VA are not cytotoxic to HTC cells in a MTT [3-(4,5-dimethilthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenil tetrazolium bromide] assay after 96-h exposure; therefore, VA does not compromise mitochondrial activity. Similarly, concentrations up to 500 µM do not compromise plasma membrane integrity. VA at 10 and 50 µM showed no mutagenic/clastogenic effects, as no significant micronuclei induction was observed. VA 10 µM presented no antiproliferative activity and reduced the cytotoxicity induced by benzo[a]pyrene. The antimutagenic activity of 10 µM VA was observed by the simultaneous, pre-, and post-treatments, as the phenolic compound significantly reduced the frequency of micronuclei induced by the mutagen. These results indicate that VA exerts different responses in HTC cells. Low concentrations present no cytotoxic, mutagenic, or antiproliferative effects and protect cells from DNA damage.

77 FR 72816 - Foreign-Trade Zone 20-Suffolk, VA; Authorization of Production Activity; Usui International...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-12-06

... DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE Foreign-Trade Zones Board [B-53-2012] Foreign-Trade Zone 20--Suffolk, VA; Authorization of Production Activity; Usui International Corporation (Diesel Engine Fuel Lines); Chesapeake, VA On June 28, 2012, the Virginia Port Authority, grantee of FTZ 20, submitted a notification of proposed production activity to the...

77 FR 48127 - Foreign-Trade Zone 20-Suffolk, VA; Notification of Proposed Production Activity, Usui...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-08-13

... DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE Foreign-Trade Zones Board [B-53-2012] Foreign-Trade Zone 20--Suffolk, VA; Notification of Proposed Production Activity, Usui International Corporation, (Diesel Engine Fuel Lines), Chesapeake, VA The Virginia Port Authority, grantee of FTZ 20, submitted a notification of proposed production activity on behalf of Usui...

78 FR 36642 - Proposed Information Collection (VA Loan Electronic Reporting Interface (VALERI) System) Activity...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-18

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0021] Proposed Information Collection (VA Loan Electronic Reporting Interface (VALERI) System) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans... techniques or the use of other forms of information technology. Title: VA Loan Electronic Reporting Interface...

75 FR 78257 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comment Request; Voluntary...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-12-15

...] Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comment Request; Voluntary Cosmetic... associated with the Agency's Voluntary Cosmetic Registration Program (VCRP). DATES: Submit either electronic... appropriate, and other forms of information technology. Voluntary Cosmetic Registration Program--21 CFR Parts...

The 5'-end heterogeneity of adenovirus virus-associated RNAI contributes to the asymmetric guide strand incorporation into the RNA-induced silencing complex.

PubMed

Xu, Ning; Gkountela, Sofia; Saeed, Khalid; Akusjärvi, Göran

2009-11-01

Human Adenovirus type 5 encodes two short RNA polymerase III transcripts, the virus-associated (VA) RNAI and VA RNAII, which can adopt stable hairpin structures that resemble micro-RNA precursors. The terminal stems of the VA RNAs are processed into small RNAs (mivaRNAs) that are incorporated into RISC. It has been reported that VA RNAI has two transcription initiation sites, which produce two VA RNAI species; a major species, VA RNAI(G), which accounts for 75% of the VA RNAI pool, and a minor species, VA RNAI(A), which initiates transcription three nucleotides upstream compared to VA RNAI(G). We show that this 5'-heterogeneity results in a dramatic difference in RISC assembly. Thus, both VA RNAI(G) and VA RNAI(A) are processed by Dicer at the same position in the terminal stem generating the same 3'-strand mivaRNA. This mivaRNA is incorporated into RISC with 200-fold higher efficiency compared to the 5'-strand of mivaRNAI. Of the small number of 5'-strands used in RISC assembly only VA RNAI(A) generated active RISC complexes. We also show that the 3'-strand of mivaRNAI, although being the preferred substrate for RISC assembly, generates unstable RISC complexes with a low in vitro cleavage activity, only around 2% compared to RISC assembled on the VA RNAI(A) 5'-strand.

75 FR 27563 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Voluntary Customer Survey

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-05-17

... Activities: Voluntary Customer Survey AGENCY: U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Department of... collection requirement concerning a Voluntary Customer Survey. This request for comment is being made... soliciting comments concerning the following information collection: Title: Voluntary Customer Survey. OMB...

76 FR 35950 - Agency Information Collection (Disability Benefits Questionnaires-Group 3) Activity Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-06-20

... Collection (Disability Benefits Questionnaires--Group 3) Activity Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits... Questionnaire, VA Form 21-0960C-5. b. Headaches (Including Migraine Headaches), Disability Benefits Questionnaire, VA Form 21-0960C-8. c. Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Disability Benefits Questionnaire, VA Form 21...

78 FR 46423 - Proposed Information Collection (Application for Reimbursement of National Test Fee) Activity...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-07-31

... (Application for Reimbursement of National Test Fee) Activity; Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans Benefits.... Title: Application for Reimbursement of National Test Fee, VA Form 22-0810. OMB Control Number: 2900..., and eligible dependents complete VA Form 22-0810 to request reimbursement of national test fees. VA...

75 FR 62187 - Proposed Information Collection (Application for Reimbursement of National Test Fee) Activity...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-10-07

... (Application for Reimbursement of National Test Fee) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans Benefits.... Title: Application for Reimbursement of National Test Fee, VA Form 22-0810. OMB Control Number: 2900..., and eligible dependents complete VA Form 22-0810 to request reimbursement of national test fees. VA...

77 FR 22068 - Proposed Information Collection (Financial Status Report) Activity: Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-12

... (Financial Status Report) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY: Office of Management, Department of Veterans... techniques or the use of other forms of information technology. Title: Financial Status Report, VA Form 5655...: Claimants complete VA Form 5655 to report their financial status. VA uses the data collected to determine...

Moving from voluntary euthanasia to non-voluntary euthanasia: equality and compassion.

PubMed

Amaraskekara, Kumar; Bagaric, Mirko

2004-09-01

The recent Dutch law legalising active voluntary euthanasia will reignite the euthanasia debate. An illuminating method for evaluating the moral status of a practice is to follow the implications of the practice to its logical conclusion. The argument for compassion is one of the central arguments in favour of voluntary active euthanasia. This argument applies perhaps even more forcefully in relation to incompetent patients. If active voluntary euthanasia is legalised, arguments based on compassion and equality will be directed towards legalising active non-voluntary euthanasia in order to make accelerated termination of death available also to the incompetent. The removal of discrimination against the incompetent has the potential to become as potent a catch-cry as the right to die. However, the legalisation of non-voluntary euthanasia is undesirable. A review of the relevant authorities reveals that there is no coherent and workable "best interests" test which can be invoked to decide whether an incompetent patient is better off dead. This provides a strong reason for not stepping onto the slippery path of permitting active voluntary euthanasia.

77 FR 55487 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Voluntary Customer Survey

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-09-10

... Activities; Voluntary Customer Survey AGENCY: U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Department of Homeland... (OMB) for review and approval in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act: Voluntary Customer Survey... forms of information. Title: Voluntary Customer Survey. OMB Number: 1651-0135. Abstract: Customs and...

77 FR 36566 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Voluntary Customer Survey

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-19

... Activities: Voluntary Customer Survey AGENCY: U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Department of... requirement concerning a Voluntary Customer Survey. This request for comment is being made pursuant to the... following information collection: Title: Voluntary Customer Survey. OMB Number: 1651-0135. Abstract: Customs...

75 FR 47607 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Voluntary Customer Survey

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-08-06

... Activities: Voluntary Customer Survey AGENCY: U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Department of Homeland... review and approval in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act: Voluntary Customer Survey. This is a.... Title: Voluntary Customer Survey. OMB Number: Will be assigned upon approval. Form Number: None...

77 FR 70210 - Agency Information Collection (Veteran's Application for Compensation and/or Pension): Activity...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-11-23

...'s Application for Compensation and/or Pension): Activity Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits... Application for Compensation and/or Pension, VA Form 21-526. b. Veteran's Supplemental Claim Application, VA.../or pension benefits. b. Veterans who previously filed a claim using VA Form 21-526, and who wish to...

Caffeine-induced increase in voluntary activation and strength of the quadriceps muscle during isometric, concentric and eccentric contractions.

PubMed

Behrens, Martin; Mau-Moeller, Anett; Weippert, Matthias; Fuhrmann, Josefin; Wegner, Katharina; Skripitz, Ralf; Bader, Rainer; Bruhn, Sven

2015-05-13

This study investigated effects of caffeine ingestion (8 mg/kg) on maximum voluntary torque (MVT) and voluntary activation of the quadriceps during isometric, concentric and eccentric contractions. Fourteen subjects ingested caffeine and placebo in a randomized, controlled, counterbalanced, double-blind crossover design. Neuromuscular tests were performed before and 1 h after oral caffeine and placebo intake. MVTs were measured and the interpolated twitch technique was applied during isometric, concentric and eccentric contractions to assess voluntary activation. Furthermore, normalized root mean square of the EMG signal was calculated and evoked spinal reflex responses (H-reflex evoked at rest and during weak isometric voluntary contraction) as well as twitch torques were analyzed. Caffeine increased MVT by 26.4 N m (95%CI: 9.3-43.5 N m, P = 0.004), 22.5 N m (95%CI: 3.1-42.0 N m, P = 0.025) and 22.5 N m (95%CI: 2.2-42.7 N m, P = 0.032) for isometric, concentric and eccentric contractions. Strength enhancements were associated with increases in voluntary activation. Explosive voluntary strength and voluntary activation at the onset of contraction were significantly increased following caffeine ingestion. Changes in spinal reflex responses and at the muscle level were not observed. Data suggest that caffeine ingestion induced an acute increase in voluntary activation that was responsible for the increased strength regardless of the contraction mode.

Dyslexia in a French-Spanish bilingual girl: behavioural and neural modulations following a visual attention span intervention.

PubMed

Valdois, Sylviane; Peyrin, Carole; Lassus-Sangosse, Delphine; Lallier, Marie; Démonet, Jean-François; Kandel, Sonia

2014-04-01

We report the case study of a French-Spanish bilingual dyslexic girl, MP, who exhibited a severe visual attention (VA) span deficit but preserved phonological skills. Behavioural investigation showed a severe reduction of reading speed for both single items (words and pseudo-words) and texts in the two languages. However, performance was more affected in French than in Spanish. MP was administered an intensive VA span intervention programme. Pre-post intervention comparison revealed a positive effect of intervention on her VA span abilities. The intervention further transferred to reading. It primarily resulted in faster identification of the regular and irregular words in French. The effect of intervention was rather modest in Spanish that only showed a tendency for faster word reading. Text reading improved in the two languages with a stronger effect in French but pseudo-word reading did not improve in either French or Spanish. The overall results suggest that VA span intervention may primarily enhance the fast global reading procedure, with stronger effects in French than in Spanish. MP underwent two fMRI sessions to explore her brain activations before and after VA span training. Prior to the intervention, fMRI assessment showed that the striate and extrastriate visual cortices alone were activated but none of the regions typically involved in VA span. Post-training fMRI revealed increased activation of the superior and inferior parietal cortices. Comparison of pre- and post-training activations revealed significant activation increase of the superior parietal lobes (BA 7) bilaterally. Thus, we show that a specific VA span intervention not only modulates reading performance but further results in increased brain activity within the superior parietal lobes known to housing VA span abilities. Furthermore, positive effects of VA span intervention on reading suggest that the ability to process multiple visual elements simultaneously is one cause of successful reading acquisition. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

77 FR 23322 - Proposed Information Collection (Report of General Information) Activity: Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-18

... Information. d. VA Form 21-0820c, Report of Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS). e. VA Form 21-0820d.... VA Form 21-0820c, Report of Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS)--2,500. e. VA Form 21-0820d... Nursing Home Information--30,000. d. VA Form 21-0820c, Report of Defense Finance and Accounting Service...

77 FR 12997 - Drug and Drug-Related Supply Promotion by Pharmaceutical Company Representatives at VA Facilities

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-03-05

... reduce or eliminate any potential for disruption in the patient care environment, manage activities and... activities that VA staff would otherwise perform during duty hours, including patient care and other... important that VA be able to limit the effects of such promotion on patient care. Again, we make no changes...

75 FR 78807 - Agency Information Collection (Application for Reimbursement of National Test Fee) Activity Under...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-12-16

... (Application for Reimbursement of National Test Fee) Activity Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits... Reimbursement of National Test Fee, VA Form 22-0810. OMB Control Number: 2900-0706. Type of Review: Extension of... complete VA Form 22-0810 to request reimbursement of national test fees. VA will use the data collected to...

Caffeine-induced increase in voluntary activation and strength of the quadriceps muscle during isometric, concentric and eccentric contractions

PubMed Central

Behrens, Martin; Mau-Moeller, Anett; Weippert, Matthias; Fuhrmann, Josefin; Wegner, Katharina; Skripitz, Ralf; Bader, Rainer; Bruhn, Sven

2015-01-01

This study investigated effects of caffeine ingestion (8 mg/kg) on maximum voluntary torque (MVT) and voluntary activation of the quadriceps during isometric, concentric and eccentric contractions. Fourteen subjects ingested caffeine and placebo in a randomized, controlled, counterbalanced, double-blind crossover design. Neuromuscular tests were performed before and 1 h after oral caffeine and placebo intake. MVTs were measured and the interpolated twitch technique was applied during isometric, concentric and eccentric contractions to assess voluntary activation. Furthermore, normalized root mean square of the EMG signal was calculated and evoked spinal reflex responses (H-reflex evoked at rest and during weak isometric voluntary contraction) as well as twitch torques were analyzed. Caffeine increased MVT by 26.4 N m (95%CI: 9.3-43.5 N m, P = 0.004), 22.5 N m (95%CI: 3.1-42.0 N m, P = 0.025) and 22.5 N m (95%CI: 2.2-42.7 N m, P = 0.032) for isometric, concentric and eccentric contractions. Strength enhancements were associated with increases in voluntary activation. Explosive voluntary strength and voluntary activation at the onset of contraction were significantly increased following caffeine ingestion. Changes in spinal reflex responses and at the muscle level were not observed. Data suggest that caffeine ingestion induced an acute increase in voluntary activation that was responsible for the increased strength regardless of the contraction mode. PMID:25969895

Fatigue-related firing of distal muscle nociceptors reduces voluntary activation of proximal muscles of the same limb.

PubMed

Kennedy, David S; McNeil, Chris J; Gandevia, Simon C; Taylor, Janet L

2014-02-15

With fatiguing exercise, firing of group III/IV muscle afferents reduces voluntary activation and force of the exercised muscles. These afferents can also act across agonist/antagonist pairs, reducing voluntary activation and force in nonfatigued muscles. We hypothesized that maintained firing of group III/IV muscle afferents after a fatiguing adductor pollicis (AP) contraction would decrease voluntary activation and force of AP and ipsilateral elbow flexors. In two experiments (n = 10) we examined voluntary activation of AP and elbow flexors by measuring changes in superimposed twitches evoked by ulnar nerve stimulation and transcranial magnetic stimulation of the motor cortex, respectively. Inflation of a sphygmomanometer cuff after a 2-min AP maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) blocked circulation of the hand for 2 min and maintained firing of group III/IV muscle afferents. After a 2-min AP MVC, maximal AP voluntary activation was lower with than without ischemia (56.2 ± 17.7% vs. 76.3 ± 14.6%; mean ± SD; P < 0.05) as was force (40.3 ± 12.8% vs. 57.1 ± 13.8% peak MVC; P < 0.05). Likewise, after a 2-min AP MVC, elbow flexion voluntary activation was lower with than without ischemia (88.3 ± 7.5% vs. 93.6 ± 3.9%; P < 0.05) as was torque (80.2 ± 4.6% vs. 86.6 ± 1.0% peak MVC; P < 0.05). Pain during ischemia was reported as Moderate to Very Strong. Postfatigue firing of group III/IV muscle afferents from the hand decreased voluntary drive and force of AP. Moreover, this effect decreased voluntary drive and torque of proximal unfatigued muscles, the elbow flexors. Fatigue-sensitive group III/IV muscle nociceptors act to limit voluntary drive not only to fatigued muscles but also to unfatigued muscles within the same limb.

Investigation of the activation of the temporalis and masseter muscles in voluntary and spontaneous smile production.

PubMed

Steele, Jessica E; Woodcock, Ian R; Murphy, Adrian D; Ryan, Monique M; Penington, Tony J; Coombs, Christopher J

2018-07-01

Masticatory muscles or their nerve supply are options for facial reanimation surgery, but their ability to create spontaneous smile has been questioned. This study assessed the percentage of healthy adults who activate the temporalis and masseter muscles during voluntary and spontaneous smile. Healthy volunteer adults underwent electromyography (EMG) studies of the temporalis and masseter muscles during voluntary and spontaneous smile. Responses were repeated three times and recorded as negative, weakly positive, or strongly positive according to the activity observed. The best response was used for analysis. Thirty healthy adults (median age: 34 years, range: 25-69 years) participated. Overall, 92% of the masseter muscles were activated during voluntary smile (22% strong, 70% weak). Seventy-seven percent of the masseter muscles were activated in spontaneous smile (12% strong, 65% weak). The temporalis muscle was activated in 62% of responses in voluntary smile (15% strong, 47% weak) and in 45% of responses in spontaneous smile (13% strong, 32% weak). No significant difference was found for males vs females or closed vs open mouth smiles. There was no significant difference in responses between voluntary and spontaneous smiles for the temporalis and masseter muscles, and their use in voluntary smile did not predict activity in spontaneous smile. Our study has shown that masseter and temporalis are active in a high proportion of healthy adults during voluntary and spontaneous smiles. Further work is required to determine the relationship between preoperative donor muscle activation and postoperative spontaneous smile, and whether masticatory muscle activity can be upregulated with appropriate training. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Fatigue-related firing of muscle nociceptors reduces voluntary activation of ipsilateral but not contralateral lower limb muscles.

PubMed

Kennedy, David S; Fitzpatrick, Siobhan C; Gandevia, Simon C; Taylor, Janet L

2015-02-15

During fatiguing upper limb exercise, maintained firing of group III/IV muscle afferents can limit voluntary drive to muscles within the same limb. It is not known if this effect occurs in the lower limb. We investigated the effects of group III/IV muscle afferent firing from fatigued ipsilateral and contralateral extensor muscles and ipsilateral flexor muscles of the knee on voluntary activation of the knee extensors. In three experiments, we examined voluntary activation of the knee extensors by measuring changes in superimposed twitches evoked by femoral nerve stimulation. Subjects attended on 2 days for each experiment. On one day a sphygmomanometer cuff occluded blood flow of the fatigued muscles to maintain firing of group III/IV muscle afferents. After a 2-min extensor contraction (experiment 1; n = 9), mean voluntary activation was lower with than without maintained ischemia (47 ± 19% vs. 87 ± 8%, respectively; P < 0.001). After a 2-min knee flexor maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) (experiment 2; n = 8), mean voluntary activation was also lower with than without ischemia (59 ± 21% vs. 79 ± 9%; P < 0.01). After the contralateral (left) MVC (experiment 3; n = 8), mean voluntary activation of the right leg was similar with or without ischemia (92 ± 6% vs. 93 ± 4%; P = 0.65). After fatiguing exercise, activity in group III/IV muscle afferents reduces voluntary activation of the fatigued muscle and nonfatigued antagonist muscles in the same leg. However, group III/IV muscle afferents from the fatigued left leg had no effect on the unfatigued right leg. This suggests that any "crossover" of central fatigue in the lower limbs is not mediated by group III/IV muscle afferents. Copyright © 2015 the American Physiological Society.

Time-variant fMRI activity in the brainstem and higher structures in response to acupuncture.

PubMed

Napadow, Vitaly; Dhond, Rupali; Park, Kyungmo; Kim, Jieun; Makris, Nikos; Kwong, Kenneth K; Harris, Richard E; Purdon, Patrick L; Kettner, Norman; Hui, Kathleen K S

2009-08-01

Acupuncture modulation of activity in the human brainstem is not well known. This structure is plagued by physiological artifact in neuroimaging experiments. In addition, most studies have used short (<15 min) block designs, which miss delayed responses following longer duration stimulation. We used brainstem-focused cardiac-gated fMRI and evaluated time-variant brain response to longer duration (>30 min) stimulation with verum (VA, electro-stimulation at acupoint ST-36) or sham point (SPA, non-acupoint electro-stimulation) acupuncture. Our results provide evidence that acupuncture modulates brainstem nuclei important to endogenous monoaminergic and opioidergic systems. Specifically, VA modulated activity in the substantia nigra (SN), nucleus raphe magnus, locus ceruleus, nucleus cuneiformis, and periaqueductal gray (PAG). Activation in the ventrolateral PAG was greater for VA compared to SPA. Linearly decreasing time-variant activation, suggesting classical habituation, was found in response to both VA and SPA in sensorimotor (SII, posterior insula, premotor cortex) brain regions. However, VA also produced linearly time-variant activity in limbic regions (amygdala, hippocampus, and SN), which was bimodal and not likely habituation--consisting of activation in early blocks, and deactivation by the end of the run. Thus, acupuncture induces different brain response early, compared to 20-30 min after stimulation. We attribute the fMRI differences between VA and SPA to more varied and stronger psychophysical response induced by VA. Our study demonstrates that acupuncture modulation of brainstem structures can be studied non-invasively in humans, allowing for comparison to animal studies. Our protocol also demonstrates a fMRI approach to study habituation and other time-variant phenomena over longer time durations.

Factor V activation and inactivation by venom proteases.

PubMed

Rosing, J; Govers-Riemslag, J W; Yukelson, L; Tans, G

2001-01-01

Blood coagulation factor V is a single-chain glycoprotein with M(r) = 330,000 which plays an important role in the procoagulant and anticoagulant pathways. Thrombin activates factor V into factor Va, a two-chain molecule which is composed of a heavy (M(r) = 105,000) and a light chain (M(r) = 71,000/74,000). Factor Va accelerates factor Xa-catalysed prothrombin activation more than 1,000-fold and under physiological conditions the cofactor activity of factor Va in prothrombin activation is down-regulated by activated protein C. Factor V can also be activated by a wide variety of snake venoms (e.g. from Vipera species, Naja naja oxiana, Bothrops atrox) and by proteases present in the bristles of a South American caterpillar (Lonomia achelous). Some venoms, notably of Vipera lebetina turanica and Lonomia achelous, contain proteases that are able to inactivate factor V or factor Va. Venom factor V activators are excellent tools in studying the structure-function relationship of factor V(a) and they are also used in diagnostic tests for quantification of plasma factor V levels and for the screening of defects in the protein C pathway. In this review, the structural and functional properties of animal venom factor V activators and inactivators is described. Copyright 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel

Corticospinal excitability is associated with hypocapnia but not changes in cerebral blood flow

PubMed Central

Hartley, Geoffrey L.; Watson, Cody L.; Ainslie, Philip N.; Tokuno, Craig D.; Greenway, Matthew J.; Gabriel, David A.; O'Leary, Deborah D.

2016-01-01

Key points Reductions in cerebral blood flow (CBF) may be implicated in the development of neuromuscular fatigue; however, the contribution from hypocapnic‐induced reductions (i.e. P ETC O2) in CBF versus reductions in CBF per se has yet to be isolated.We assessed neuromuscular function while using indomethacin to selectively reduce CBF without changes in P ETC O2 and controlled hyperventilation‐induced hypocapnia to reduce both CBF and P ETC O2.Increased corticospinal excitability appears to be exclusive to reductions in P ETC O2 but not reductions in CBF, whereas sub‐optimal voluntary output from the motor cortex is moderately associated with decreased CBF independent of changes in P ETC O2.These findings suggest that changes in CBF and P ETC O2 have distinct roles in modulating neuromuscular function. Abstract Although reductions in cerebral blood flow (CBF) may be involved in central fatigue, the contribution from hypocapnia‐induced reductions in CBF versus reductions in CBF per se has not been isolated. This study examined whether reduced arterial PCO2 (P aC O2), independent of concomitant reductions in CBF, impairs neuromuscular function. Neuromuscular function, as indicated by motor‐evoked potentials (MEPs), maximal M‐wave (M max) and cortical voluntary activation (cVA) of the flexor carpi radialis muscle during isometric wrist flexion, was assessed in ten males (29 ± 10 years) during three separate conditions: (1) cyclooxygenase inhibition using indomethacin (Indomethacin, 1.2 mg kg−1) to selectively reduce CBF by 28.8 ± 10.3% (estimated using transcranial Doppler ultrasound) without changes in end‐tidal PCO2 (P ETC O2); (2) controlled iso‐oxic hyperventilation‐induced reductions in P aC O2 (Hypocapnia), P ETC O2  = 30.1 ± 4.5 mmHg with related reductions in CBF (21.7 ± 6.3%); and (3) isocapnic hyperventilation (Isocapnia) to examine the potential direct influence of hyperventilation‐mediated activation of respiratory control centres on CBF and changes in neuromuscular function. Change in MEP amplitude (%M max) from baseline was greater in Hypocapnia tha in Isocapnia (11.7 ± 9.8%, 95% confidence interval (CI) [2.6, 20.7], P = 0.01) and Indomethacin (13.3 ± 11.3%, 95% CI [2.8, 23.7], P = 0.01) with a large Cohen's effect size (d ≥ 1.17). Although not statistically significant, cVA was reduced with a moderate effect size in Indomethacin (d = 0.7) and Hypocapnia (d = 0.9) compared to Isocapnia. In summary, increased corticospinal excitability – as reflected by larger MEP amplitude – appears to be exclusive to reduced P aC O2, but not reductions in CBF per se. Sub‐optimal voluntary output from the motor cortex is moderately associated with decreased CBF, independent of reduced P aC O2. PMID:26836470

78 FR 39832 - Proposed Information Collection Activity: Proposed Collection; Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-07-02

... techniques or the use of other forms of information technology. Titles: a. Application for Health Benefits, VA Form 10-10EZ. b. Health Benefits Renewal Form, VA Form 10-10EZR. c. VA Form 10-10HS. OMB Control... determine the Veteran's eligibility for medical benefits. b. Veterans currently enrolled in VA health care...

76 FR 70831 - Proposed Information Collection (Survey of Veteran Enrollees (Quality and Efficiency of VA Health...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-11-15

... of Veteran Enrollees (Quality and Efficiency of VA Health Care)) Activity; Comment Request AGENCY... of Veteran Enrollees (Quality and Efficiency of VA Health Care), VA Form 10-21088. OMB Control Number... will be used to collect data that is necessary to promote quality and efficient delivery of health care...

77 FR 3841 - Proposed Information Collection (Survey of Veteran Enrollees (Quality and Efficiency of VA Health...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-01-25

... of Veteran Enrollees (Quality and Efficiency of VA Health Care)) Activities Under OMB Review AGENCY... of Veteran Enrollees (Quality and Efficiency of VA Health Care), VA Form 10-21088. OMB Control Number... will be used to collect data that is necessary to promote quality and efficient delivery of health care...

Etiology and Recovery of Neuromuscular Fatigue following Competitive Soccer Match-Play

PubMed Central

Brownstein, Callum G.; Dent, Jack P.; Parker, Paul; Hicks, Kirsty M.; Howatson, Glyn; Goodall, Stuart; Thomas, Kevin

2017-01-01

Aim: Previous research into the etiology of neuromuscular fatigue following competitive soccer match-play has primarily focused on peripheral perturbations, with limited research assessing central nervous system function in the days post-match. The aim of the present study was to examine the contribution and time-course of recovery of central and peripheral factors toward neuromuscular fatigue following competitive soccer match-play. Methods: Sixteen male semi-professional soccer players completed a 90-min soccer match. Pre-, post- and at 24, 48, and 72 h participants completed a battery of neuromuscular, physical, and perceptual tests. Maximal voluntary contraction force (MVC) and twitch responses to electrical (femoral nerve) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) of the motor cortex during isometric knee-extension and at rest were measured to assess central nervous system (voluntary activation, VA) and muscle contractile (potentiated twitch force, Qtw, pot) function. Electromyography responses of the rectus femoris to single- and paired-pulse TMS were used to assess corticospinal excitability and short-interval intracortical inhibition (SICI), respectively. Fatigue and perceptions of muscle soreness were assessed via visual analog scales, and physical function was assessed through measures of jump (countermovement jump height and reactive strength index) and sprint performance. Results: Competitive match-play elicited significant post-match declines in MVC force (−14%, P < 0.001) that persisted for 48 h (−4%, P = 0.01), before recovering by 72 h post-exercise. VA (motor point stimulation) was reduced immediately post-match (−8%, P < 0.001), and remained depressed at 24 h (−5%, P = 0.01) before recovering by 48 h post-exercise. Qtw,pot was reduced post-match (−14%, P < 0.001), remained depressed at 24 h (−6%, P = 0.01), before recovering by 48 h post-exercise. No changes were evident in corticospinal excitability or SICI. Jump performance took 48 h to recover, while perceptions of fatigue persisted at 72 h. Conclusion: Competitive soccer match-play elicits substantial impairments in central nervous system and muscle function, requiring up to 48 h to resolve. The results of the study could have important implications for fixture scheduling, the optimal management of the training process, squad rotation during congested competitive schedules, and the implementation of appropriate recovery interventions. PMID:29118716

Induction of maturation and activation of human dendritic cells: a mechanism underlying the beneficial effect of Viscum album as complimentary therapy in cancer.

PubMed

Elluru, Sri Ramulu; Duong van Huyen, Jean-Paul; Delignat, Sandrine; Kazatchkine, Michel D; Friboulet, Alain; Kaveri, Srini V; Bayry, Jagadeesh

2008-06-04

Viscum album (VA) preparations have been used as a complimentary therapy in cancer. In addition to their cytotoxic properties, they have also been shown to have immunostimulatory properties. In the present study, we examine the hypothesis that the VA preparations induce activation of human DC that facilitates effective tumor regression. Four day old monocyte-derived immature DCs were treated with VA Qu Spez at 5, 10 and 15 microg/ml for 48 hrs. The expression of surface molecules was analyzed by flow cytometry. The ability of Qu Spez-educated DC to stimulate T cells was analyzed by allogeneic mixed lymphocyte reaction and activation of Melan-A/MART-1-specific M77-80 CD8+T cells. Cytokines in cell free culture supernatant was analyzed by cytokine bead array assay. VA Qu Spez stimulated DCs presented with increased expression of antigen presenting molecule HLA-DR and of co-stimulatory molecules CD40, CD80 and CD86. The VA Qu Spez also induced the secretion of inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and IL-8. Further, Qu Spez-educated DC stimulated CD4+T cells in a allogeneic mixed lymphocyte reaction and activated melanoma antigen Melan-A/MART-1-specific M77-80 CD8+T cells as evidenced by increased secretion of TNF-alpha and IFNgamma. The VA preparations stimulate the maturation and activation of human DCs, which may facilitate anti-tumoral immune responses. These results should assist in understanding the immunostimulatory properties of VA preparations and improving the therapeutic strategies.

Induction of maturation and activation of human dendritic cells: A mechanism underlying the beneficial effect of Viscum album as complimentary therapy in cancer

PubMed Central

Elluru, Sri Ramulu; van Huyen, Jean-Paul Duong; Delignat, Sandrine; Kazatchkine, Michel D; Friboulet, Alain; Kaveri, Srini V; Bayry, Jagadeesh

2008-01-01

Background Viscum album (VA) preparations have been used as a complimentary therapy in cancer. In addition to their cytotoxic properties, they have also been shown to have immunostimulatory properties. In the present study, we examine the hypothesis that the VA preparations induce activation of human DC that facilitates effective tumor regression. Methods Four day old monocyte-derived immature DCs were treated with VA Qu Spez at 5, 10 and 15 μg/ml for 48 hrs. The expression of surface molecules was analyzed by flow cytometry. The ability of Qu Spez-educated DC to stimulate T cells was analyzed by allogeneic mixed lymphocyte reaction and activation of Melan-A/MART-1-specific M77-80 CD8+T cells. Cytokines in cell free culture supernatant was analyzed by cytokine bead array assay. Results VA Qu Spez stimulated DCs presented with increased expression of antigen presenting molecule HLA-DR and of co-stimulatory molecules CD40, CD80 and CD86. The VA Qu Spez also induced the secretion of inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and IL-8. Further, Qu Spez-educated DC stimulated CD4+T cells in a allogeneic mixed lymphocyte reaction and activated melanoma antigen Melan-A/MART-1-specific M77-80 CD8+T cells as evidenced by increased secretion of TNF-α and IFNγ. Conclusion The VA preparations stimulate the maturation and activation of human DCs, which may facilitate anti-tumoral immune responses. These results should assist in understanding the immunostimulatory properties of VA preparations and improving the therapeutic strategies. PMID:18533025

76 FR 28852 - Agency Information Collection (Regulation for Submission of Evidence); Activity Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-05-18

... that is liable for reimbursing VA for care and services VA provided to veterans with non-service... demonstrating its equivalent private sector provider payment amount for the same care or services VA provided...

Vancomycin and/or Multidrug-Resistant Citrobacter Freundii Altered the Metabolic Pattern of Soil Microbial Community

PubMed Central

Cycoń, Mariusz; Orlewska, Kamila; Markowicz, Anna; Żmijowska, Agnieszka; Smoleń-Dzirba, Joanna; Bratosiewicz-Wąsik, Jolanta; Wąsik, Tomasz J.; Piotrowska-Seget, Zofia

2018-01-01

Despite many studies, our knowledge on the impact of antibiotics and antibiotic-resistant bacteria on the metabolic activity of soil microbial communities is still limited. To ascertain this impact, the community level physiological profiles (CLPPs) and the activity of selected enzymes (dehydrogenase, urease, and phosphatases) in soils treated with vancomycin (VA) and/or multidrug resistant Citrobacter freundii were determined during a 90-day experiment. A multivariate analysis and the resistance (RS)/resilience (RL) concept were used to assess the potential of native microorganisms to maintain their catabolic activity under exposure of VA and/or a high level of C. freundii. In addition, the dissipation rate of VA was evaluated in non-sterile (nsS) and sterile (sS) soils. The results revealed a negative impact of VA on the metabolic activity of soil microorganisms on days 1, 15, and 30 as was showed by a decrease in the values of the CLPP indices (10–69%) and the enzyme activities (6–32%) for treated soils as compared to the control. These observations suggested a low initial resistance of soil microorganisms to VA and/or C. freundii but they were resilient in the long term. Considering the mean values of the RS index, the resistance of measured parameters was categorized in the following order: alkaline phosphatase (0.919) > acid phosphatase (0.899) > dehydrogenase (0.853) > the evenness index (0.840) > urease (0.833) > the Shannon-Wiener index (0.735) > substrate richness (0.485) > the AWCD (0.301). The dissipation process of VA was relatively fast and independent of the concentration used. The DT50 values for VA applied at both concentrations were about 16 days. In addition, the dissipation of VA in nsS was three times faster compared to the dissipation of antibiotic in sS. In conclusion, both CLPP and enzyme activities assays appeared to be useful tool for the determination of disturbances within soil microbial communities and used together may be helpful to understand the changes in their catabolic features. The entry of large quantities of VA and/or C. freundii into soil may temporarily change microbial activity thus pose a potential risk for soil functioning. PMID:29875753

Trainability of Muscular Activity Level during Maximal Voluntary Co-Contraction: Comparison between Bodybuilders and Nonathletes

PubMed Central

Maeo, Sumiaki; Takahashi, Takumi; Takai, Yohei; Kanehisa, Hiroaki

2013-01-01

Antagonistic muscle pairs cannot be fully activated simultaneously, even with maximal effort, under conditions of voluntary co-contraction, and their muscular activity levels are always below those during agonist contraction with maximal voluntary effort (MVE). Whether the muscular activity level during the task has trainability remains unclear. The present study examined this issue by comparing the muscular activity level during maximal voluntary co-contraction for highly experienced bodybuilders, who frequently perform voluntary co-contraction in their training programs, with that for untrained individuals (nonathletes). The electromyograms (EMGs) of biceps brachii and triceps brachii muscles during maximal voluntary co-contraction of elbow flexors and extensors were recorded in 11 male bodybuilders and 10 nonathletes, and normalized to the values obtained during the MVE of agonist contraction for each of the corresponding muscles (% EMGMVE). The involuntary coactivation level in antagonist muscle during the MVE of agonist contraction was also calculated. In both muscles, % EMGMVE values during the co-contraction task for bodybuilders were significantly higher (P<0.01) than those for nonathletes (biceps brachii: 66±14% in bodybuilders vs. 46±13% in nonathletes, triceps brachii: 74±16% vs. 57±9%). There was a significant positive correlation between a length of bodybuilding experience and muscular activity level during the co-contraction task (r = 0.653, P = 0.03). Involuntary antagonist coactivation level during MVE of agonist contraction was not different between the two groups. The current result indicates that long-term participation in voluntary co-contraction training progressively enhances muscular activity during maximal voluntary co-contraction. PMID:24260233

77 FR 59665 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comments Requested: Voluntary...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-09-28

... DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives [OMB Notice 1140-0092] Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comments Requested: Voluntary Magazine... collection. (2) Title of the Form/Collection: Voluntary Magazine Questionnaire for Agencies/Entities Who...

VA Student Financial Aid. Opportunity To Reduce Overlap in Approving Education and Training Programs. Report to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs, U.S. Senate.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

General Accounting Office, Washington, DC. Health, Education, and Human Services Div.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) contracts with state approving agencies (SAAs) to assess whether schools and training programs offer education of sufficient quality for veterans to receive VA education assistance benefits when attending them. The General Accounting Office examined the gatekeeping activities of the VA and the Department of…

Formation of a tyrosine adduct involved in lignin degradation by Trametopsis cervina lignin peroxidase: a novel peroxidase activation mechanism.

PubMed

Miki, Yuta; Pogni, Rebecca; Acebes, Sandra; Lucas, Fátima; Fernández-Fueyo, Elena; Baratto, Maria Camilla; Fernández, María I; de los Ríos, Vivian; Ruiz-Dueñas, Francisco J; Sinicropi, Adalgisa; Basosi, Riccardo; Hammel, Kenneth E; Guallar, Victor; Martínez, Angel T

2013-06-15

LiP (lignin peroxidase) from Trametopsis cervina has an exposed catalytic tyrosine residue (Tyr181) instead of the tryptophan conserved in other lignin-degrading peroxidases. Pristine LiP showed a lag period in VA (veratryl alcohol) oxidation. However, VA-LiP (LiP after treatment with H2O2 and VA) lacked this lag, and H2O2-LiP (H2O2-treated LiP) was inactive. MS analyses revealed that VA-LiP includes one VA molecule covalently bound to the side chain of Tyr181, whereas H2O2-LiP contains a hydroxylated Tyr181. No adduct is formed in the Y171N variant. Molecular docking showed that VA binding is favoured by sandwich π stacking with Tyr181 and Phe89. EPR spectroscopy after peroxide activation of the pre-treated LiPs showed protein radicals other than the tyrosine radical found in pristine LiP, which were assigned to a tyrosine-VA adduct radical in VA-LiP and a dihydroxyphenyalanine radical in H2O2-LiP. Both radicals are able to oxidize large low-redox-potential substrates, but H2O2-LiP is unable to oxidize high-redox-potential substrates. Transient-state kinetics showed that the tyrosine-VA adduct strongly promotes (>100-fold) substrate oxidation by compound II, the rate-limiting step in catalysis. The novel activation mechanism is involved in ligninolysis, as demonstrated using lignin model substrates. The present paper is the first report on autocatalytic modification, resulting in functional alteration, among class II peroxidases.

Targeting Behavioral Symptoms and Functional Decline in Dementia: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

PubMed

Gitlin, Laura N; Arthur, Paul; Piersol, Catherine; Hessels, Virginia; Wu, Samuel S; Dai, Yunfeng; Mann, William C

2018-02-01

Dementia-related behavioral symptoms and functional dependence result in poor quality of life for persons with dementia and their caregivers. The goal was to determine whether a home-based activity program (Tailored Activity Program; TAP-VA) would reduce behavioral symptoms and functional dependence of veterans with dementia and caregiver burden. Single-blind (interviewer), parallel, randomized, controlled trial (Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT01357564). Veteran's homes. Veterans with dementia and their family caregivers (N = 160 dyads). Dyads in TAP-VA underwent 8 sessions with occupational therapists to customize activities to the interests and abilities of the veterans and educate their caregivers about dementia and use of customized activity. Caregivers assigned to attention control received up to 8 telephone-based dementia education sessions with a research team member. Primary outcomes included number of behaviors and frequency of their occurrence multiplied by severity of occurrence; secondary outcomes were functional dependence, pain, emotional well-being, caregiver burden (time spent caregiving, upset with behaviors) and affect at 4 (primary endpoint) and 8 months. Of 160 dyads (n = 76 TAP-VA; n = 84 control), 111 completed 4-month interviews (n = 51 TAP-VA; n = 60 control), and 103 completed 8-month interviews (n = 50 TAP-VA; n = 53 control). At 4 months, compared to controls, the TAP-VA group showed reductions in number (difference in mean change from baseline = -0.68, 95% CI = -1.23 to -0.13) and frequency by severity (-24.3, 95% CI = -45.6 to -3.1) of behavioral symptoms, number of activities needing assistance with (-0.80, 95% CI = -1.41 to -0.20), functional dependence level (4.09, 95% CI = 1.06, 7.13), and pain (-1.18, 95% CI = -2.10 to -0.26). Caregivers of veterans in TAP-VA reported less behavior-related distress. Benefits did not extend to 8 months. TAP-VA had positive immediate effects and no adverse events. Because TAP-VA reduces behavioral symptoms, slows functional dependence, and alleviates pain and caregiver distress, it is a viable treatment option for families. © 2017, Copyright the Authors Journal compilation © 2017, The American Geriatrics Society.

Voluntary activation of biceps-to-triceps and deltoid-to-triceps transfers in quadriplegia.

PubMed

Peterson, Carrie L; Bednar, Michael S; Bryden, Anne M; Keith, Michael W; Perreault, Eric J; Murray, Wendy M

2017-01-01

The biceps or the posterior deltoid can be transferred to improve elbow extension function for many individuals with C5 or C6 quadriplegia. Maximum strength after elbow reconstruction is variable; the patient's ability to voluntarily activate the transferred muscle to extend the elbow may contribute to the variability. We compared voluntary activation during maximum isometric elbow extension following biceps transfer (n = 5) and deltoid transfer (n = 6) in three functional postures. Voluntary activation was computed as the elbow extension moment generated during maximum voluntary effort divided by the moment generated with full activation, which was estimated via electrical stimulation. Voluntary activation was on average 96% after biceps transfer and not affected by posture. Individuals with deltoid transfer demonstrated deficits in voluntary activation, which differed by posture (80% in horizontal plane, 69% in overhead reach, and 70% in weight-relief), suggesting inadequate motor re-education after deltoid transfer. Overall, individuals with a biceps transfer better activated their transferred muscle than those with a deltoid transfer. This difference in neural control augmented the greater force-generating capacity of the biceps leading to increased elbow extension strength after biceps transfer (average 9.37 N-m across postures) relative to deltoid transfer (average 2.76 N-m across postures) in our study cohort.

Voluntary activation of biceps-to-triceps and deltoid-to-triceps transfers in quadriplegia

PubMed Central

Peterson, Carrie L.; Bednar, Michael S.; Bryden, Anne M.; Keith, Michael W.; Perreault, Eric J.; Murray, Wendy M.

2017-01-01

The biceps or the posterior deltoid can be transferred to improve elbow extension function for many individuals with C5 or C6 quadriplegia. Maximum strength after elbow reconstruction is variable; the patient’s ability to voluntarily activate the transferred muscle to extend the elbow may contribute to the variability. We compared voluntary activation during maximum isometric elbow extension following biceps transfer (n = 5) and deltoid transfer (n = 6) in three functional postures. Voluntary activation was computed as the elbow extension moment generated during maximum voluntary effort divided by the moment generated with full activation, which was estimated via electrical stimulation. Voluntary activation was on average 96% after biceps transfer and not affected by posture. Individuals with deltoid transfer demonstrated deficits in voluntary activation, which differed by posture (80% in horizontal plane, 69% in overhead reach, and 70% in weight-relief), suggesting inadequate motor re-education after deltoid transfer. Overall, individuals with a biceps transfer better activated their transferred muscle than those with a deltoid transfer. This difference in neural control augmented the greater force-generating capacity of the biceps leading to increased elbow extension strength after biceps transfer (average 9.37 N-m across postures) relative to deltoid transfer (average 2.76 N-m across postures) in our study cohort. PMID:28253262

78 FR 73504 - Procurement List; Proposed Additions

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-12-06

... Logistics Support Detachment, Undisclosed Location*, Ft. Belvoir, VA. NPA: MVLE, Inc., Springfield, VA. Contracting Activity: Directorate of Contracting Procurement Logistics Support Detachment, Fort Belvoir, VA.... Lineback, Director, Business Operations. [FR Doc. 2013-29139 Filed 12-5-13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6353-01-P ...

78 FR 50143 - Agency Information Collection (Application for CHAMPVA Benefits) Activities Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-08-16

...,402 hours. c. VA Form 10-7959c--6,728 hours. d. VA Form 10-7959d--467 hours. e. VA Form 10-7959e--1500...,000. Dated: August 13, 2013. By direction of the Secretary. Crystal Rennie, VA Clearance Officer, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. [FR Doc. 2013-19914 Filed 8-15-13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 8320-01-P ...

Hepatoprotective effects of Vaccinium arctostaphylos against CCl4-induced acute liver injury in rats.

PubMed

Ravan, Alireza Pouyandeh; Bahmani, Mahdi; Ghasemi Basir, Hamid Reza; Salehi, Iraj; Oshaghi, Ebrahim Abbasi

2017-09-26

This study was carried out to evaluate the antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of Vaccinium arctostaphylos (V.a) methanolic extract on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced acute liver injury in Wistar rats. Total phenolic and total flavonoid contents as well as antioxidant activity of V.a were determined. Extracts of V.a at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg were administered by oral gavage to rats once per day for 7 days and then were given an intraperitoneal injection of 1 mL/kg CCl4 (1:1 in olive oil) for 3 consecutive days. Serum biochemical markers of liver injury, oxidative markers, as well as hydroxyproline (HP) content and histopathology of liver were evaluated. The obtained results showed that V.a had strong antioxidant activity. Treatment of rats with V.a blocked the CCl4-induced elevation of serum markers of liver function and enhanced albumin and total protein levels. The level of hepatic HP content was also reduced by the administration of V.a treatment. Histological examination of the liver section revealed that V.a prevented the occurrence of pathological changes in CCl4-treated rats. These findings suggested that V.a may be useful in the treatment and prevention of hepatic injury induced by CCl4.

Maternal exercise during pregnancy promotes physical activity in adult offspring

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Previous rodent studies have shown that maternal voluntary exercise during pregnancy leads to metabolic changes in adult offspring. We set out to test whether maternal voluntary exercise during pregnancy also induces persistent changes in voluntary physical activity in the offspring. Adult C57BL/6J ...

77 FR 15190 - Proposed Information Collection Activity; Comment Request: Applications and Appraisals for...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-03-14

... Physicians, Dentists, Podiatrists and Optometrists, Chiropractors, VA Form 10-2850--7,450 hours. b.... Application for Physicians, Dentists, Podiatrists and Optometrists, Chiropractors, VA Form 10-2850--30 minutes... Respondents a. Application for Physicians, Dentists, Podiatrists and Optometrists, Chiropractors, VA Form 10...

The effect of membrane composition on the hemostatic balance.

PubMed

Smirnov, M D; Ford, D A; Esmon, C T; Esmon, N L

1999-03-23

The phospholipid composition requirements for optimal prothrombin activation and factor Va inactivation by activated protein C (APC) anticoagulant were examined. Vesicles composed of phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) and phosphatidylcholine (PC) supported factor Va inactivation relatively well. However, optimal factor Va inactivation still required relatively high concentrations of phosphatidylserine (PS). In addition, at a fixed concentration of phospholipid, PS, and APC, vesicles devoid of PE never attained a rate of factor Va inactivation achievable with vesicles containing PE. Polyunsaturation of any vesicle component also contributed significantly to APC inactivation of factor Va. Thus, PE makes an important contribution to factor Va inactivation that cannot be mimicked by PS. In the absence of polyunsaturation in the other membrane constituents, this contribution was dependent upon the presence of both the PE headgroup per se and unsaturation of the 1,2 fatty acids. Although PE did not affect prothrombin activation rates at optimal PS concentrations, PE reduced the requirement for PS approximately 10-fold. The Km(app) for prothrombin and the Kd(app) for factor Xa-factor Va decreased as a function of increasing PS concentration, reaching optimal values at 10-15% PS in the absence of PE but only 1% PS in the presence of PE. Fatty acid polyunsaturation had minimal effects. A lupus anticoagulant immunoglobulin was more inhibitory to both prothrombinase and factor Va inactivation in the presence of PE. The degree of inhibition of APC was significantly greater and much more dependent on the phospholipid composition than that of prothrombinase. Thus, subtle changes in the phospholipid composition of cells may control procoagulant and anticoagulant reactions differentially under both normal and pathological conditions.

Contributions of neural excitability and voluntary activation to quadriceps muscle strength following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

PubMed

Lepley, Adam S; Ericksen, Hayley M; Sohn, David H; Pietrosimone, Brian G

2014-06-01

Persistent quadriceps weakness is common following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLr). Alterations in spinal-reflexive excitability, corticospinal excitability and voluntary activation have been hypothesized as underlying mechanisms contributing to quadriceps weakness. The aim of this study was to evaluate the predictive capabilities of spinal-reflexive excitability, corticospinal excitability and voluntary activation on quadriceps strength in healthy and ACLr participants. Quadriceps strength was measured using maximal voluntary isometric contractions (MVIC). Voluntary activation was quantified via the central activation ratio (CAR). Corticospinal and spinal-reflexive excitability were measured using active motor thresholds (AMT) and Hoffmann reflexes normalized to maximal muscle responses (H:M), respectively. ACLr individuals were also split into high and low strength subsets based on MVIC. CAR was the only significant predictor in the healthy group. In the ACLr group, CAR and H:M significantly predicted 47% of the variance in MVIC. ACLr individuals in the high strength subset demonstrated significantly higher CAR and H:M than those in the low strength subset. Increased quadriceps voluntary activation, spinal-reflexive excitability and corticospinal excitability relates to increased quadriceps strength in participants following ACLr. Rehabilitation strategies used to target neural alterations may be beneficial for the restoration of muscle strength following ACLr. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Overweight adult cats have significantly lower voluntary physical activity than adult lean cats.

PubMed

de Godoy, Maria Rc; Shoveller, Anna K

2017-12-01

Objectives The objectives of the current pilot study were to evaluate whether body condition score (BCS) and body weight are significantly related to physical activity counts, and to evaluate potential interaction between BCS and voluntary physical activity measured over a 14 day period. Methods Ten (five lean, five overweight), neutered, adult American Shorthair cats were selected for this study (median age 4 ± 0.5 years). Cats with a BCS of ⩽3.0 were considered lean, whereas cats with a BCS >3.0 were considered overweight, using a 5-point scale. Cats were housed in a free-living environment with indoor/outdoor access and were individually fed once daily a commercially available dry extruded diet and allowed 1 h to eat. Voluntary physical activity was measured consecutively for 14 days using the Actical Activity Monitors that were worn parallel to the ribs and attached via a harness. Results Lean cats had a greater mean total daily voluntary physical activity ( P = 0.0059), and a greater voluntary physical activity during light ( P = 0.0023) and dark ( P = 0.0446) periods, with overweight cats having 60% of the physical activity of lean cats. Lean cats were more active before feeding and during animal care procedures. These data suggest that lean cats have a greater anticipatory physical activity prior to feeding and are more eager to have social interaction with humans than overweight cats. A significant interaction was observed between day of physical activity measurement and BCS for total daily voluntary physical activity ( P = 0.0133) and activity during the light period ( P = 0.0016) where lean cats were consistently more active than overweight cats. In general, cats were more active during weekdays vs weekends. Conclusions and relevance The results of this study suggest that overweight cats are less active than lean cats and that voluntary physical activity level appears to be influenced by social interaction with humans.

Voluntary exercise prevents colonic inflammation in high-fat diet-induced obese mice by up-regulating PPAR-γ activity

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

Liu, Wei-Xin, E-mail: weixinliu@yahoo.com; Wang, Ting; Zhou, Feng

Obesity is associated with increased colonic inflammation, which elevates the risk of colon cancer. Although exercise exerts anti-inflammatory actions in multiple chronic diseases associated with inflammation, it is unknown whether this strategy prevents colonic inflammation in obesity. We hypothesized that voluntary exercise would suppress colonic inflammation in high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity by modulation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-γ. Male C57Bl/6J mice fed either a control diet (6.5% fat, CON) or a high-fat diet (24% fat, HFD) were divided into sedentary, voluntary exercise or voluntary exercise with PPAR-γ antagonist GW9662 (10 mg/kg/day). All interventions took place for 12 weeks. Compared with CON-sedentarymore » group, HFD-sedentary mice gained significantly more body weight and exhibited metabolic disorders. Molecular studies revealed that HFD-sedentary mice had increased expression of inflammatory mediators and activation of nuclear factor (NF)-κB in the colons, which were associated with decreased expression and activity of PPAR-γ. Voluntary exercise markedly attenuated body weight gain, improved metabolic disorders, and normalized the expression of inflammatory mediators and activation of NF-κB in the colons in HFD-mice while having no effects in CON-animals. Moreover, voluntary exercise significantly increased expression and activity of PPAR-γ in the colons in both HFD- and CON-animals. However, all of these beneficial effects induced by voluntary exercise were abolished by GW9662, which inhibited expression and activity of PPAR-γ. The results suggest that decreased PPAR-γ activity in the colon of HFD-induced obesity may facilitate the inflammatory response and colon carcinogenesis. Voluntary exercise prevents colonic inflammation in HFD-induced obesity by up-regulating PPAR-γ activity. - Highlights: • Obesity down-regulates PPAR-γ in the colon. • Down-regulated colonic PPAR-γ may facilitate inflammatory response. • Exercise prevents colonic inflammation in obesity by up-regulating PPAR-γ.« less

78 FR 66803 - Privacy Act of 1974; System of Records

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-11-06

... information to appropriate agencies, entities, or persons when VA suspects or has confirmed that the integrity...; tracking information as to file location and employee productivity information. Material in this system... to alert them to the presence of dangerous persons in VA facilities or at VA activities conducted in...

78 FR 59099 - Agency Information Collection (VA Loan Electronic Reporting Interface (VALERI) System) Activity...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-09-25

... Information and Regulatory Affairs, Office of Management and Budget, Attn: VA Desk Officer; 725 17th St. NW....'' SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Title: VA Loan Electronic Reporting Interface (VALERI) System. OMB Control Number... information submitted through the VALERI system to perform supplemental servicing, determination on...

76 FR 16478 - Proposed Information Collection (Disability Benefits Questionnaires-Group 2) Activity: Comment...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-03-23

... Conditions (Vascular Diseases including Varicose Veins) Disability Benefits Questionnaire, VA Form 21-0960A-2. b. Hypertension Disability Benefits Questionnaire, VA Form 21- 0960A-3. c. Non-ischemic Heart Disease (including Arrhythmias and Surgery) Disability Benefits Questionnaire, VA Form 21-0960A-4. d...

76 FR 67557 - Proposed Information Collection (Survey of Veteran Enrollees' Health and Reliance Upon VA...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-11-01

... of Veteran Enrollees' Health and Reliance Upon VA) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans Health... enrollees' health status and reliance on VA's health care services. DATES: Written comments and... of automated collection techniques or the use of other forms of information technology. Title: Survey...

Federal Health Care Center: VA and DOD Need to Develop Better Information to Monitor Operations and Improve Efficiency

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-01-01

delivery of health care that would be more accessible and less expensive than operating two federal medical centers serving VA and DOD beneficiaries in...departments—including DOD’s operational readiness mission—by integrating services previously provided by the former North Chicago VA Medical Center...1VA beneficiaries include veterans of military service and certain dependents and survivors. DOD beneficiaries include active duty

Functional neuroanatomy of human voluntary cough and sniff production

PubMed Central

Simonyan, Kristina; Saad, Ziad S.; Loucks, Torrey M.J.; Poletto, Christopher J.; Ludlow, Christy L.

2007-01-01

Cough and sniff are both spontaneous respiratory behaviors that can be initiated voluntarily in humans. Disturbances of cough may be life threatening, while inability to sniff impairs the sense of smell in neurological patients. Cortical mechanisms of voluntary cough and sniff production have been predicted to exist; however, the localization and function of supramedullary areas responsible for these behaviors are poorly understood. We used functional magnetic resonance imaging to identify the central control of voluntary cough and sniff compared with breathing. We determined that both voluntary cough and sniff require a widespread pattern of sensorimotor activation along the Sylvian fissure convergent with voluntary breathing. Task-specific activation occurred in a ponto-mesencephalic region during voluntary coughing and in the hippocampus and piriform cortex during voluntary sniffing. Identification of the localization of cortical activation for cough control in humans may help potential drug development to target these regions in patients with chronic cough. Understanding the sensorimotor sniff control mechanisms may provide a new view on the cerebral functional reorganization of olfactory control in patients with neurological disorders. PMID:17574873

78 FR 29119 - Procurement List; Additions and Deletion

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-05-17

... Industries for the Blind, Inc., Indianapolis, IN Contracting Activity: Defense Logistics Agency Aviation, Richmond, VA Coverage: B-List for the Total Government Requirement as aggregated by the Defense Logistics...: Richmond Area Association for Retarded Citizens, Richmond, VA. Contracting Activity: Defense Contract...

Use of varenicline for more than 12 months for smoking cessation in heavy chronic obstructive pulmonary disease smokers unmotivated to quit: a pilot study

PubMed Central

Sansores, Raúl H.; Ramírez-Venegas, Alejandra; Arellano-Rocha, Rosario; Noé-Díaz, Valeri; García-Gómez, Leonor; Pérez Bautista, Oliver; Velázquez Uncal, Mónica

2016-01-01

Introduction: Use of varenicline for as long as necessary to achieve abstinence has not been studied. The aim of this study was to test whether smokers with mild-to-moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are able to quit if they use varenicline for a sufficient length of time. Methods: A total of 30 heavy smokers with COPD took varenicline for sufficiently long enough for smoking cessation. Smokers were allowed to smoke without a fixed quit date. The main endpoints were the time of voluntary abstinence (VA) and the continuous abstinence rate (CAR) at 12 and 18 months. Results: Of 28 subjects, eight subjects continued to smoke and 20 subjects stopped smoking, demonstrating a CAR up to 18 months (71%). Median time of treatment was 6 (range 3–24) and 2 (range 1–8) months for abstainers and non-abstainers, respectively, and the median time of VA for abstainers was 4 (range 1–21) months. Conclusions: Use of varenicline for more than the traditional 12 recommended weeks may be a good strategy to increase the cessation rate in heavy smokers with mild COPD. PMID:27352612

Use of varenicline for more than 12 months for smoking cessation in heavy chronic obstructive pulmonary disease smokers unmotivated to quit: a pilot study.

PubMed

Sansores, Raúl H; Ramírez-Venegas, Alejandra; Arellano-Rocha, Rosario; Noé-Díaz, Valeri; García-Gómez, Leonor; Pérez Bautista, Oliver; Velázquez Uncal, Mónica

2016-10-01

Use of varenicline for as long as necessary to achieve abstinence has not been studied. The aim of this study was to test whether smokers with mild-to-moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are able to quit if they use varenicline for a sufficient length of time. A total of 30 heavy smokers with COPD took varenicline for sufficiently long enough for smoking cessation. Smokers were allowed to smoke without a fixed quit date. The main endpoints were the time of voluntary abstinence (VA) and the continuous abstinence rate (CAR) at 12 and 18 months. Of 28 subjects, eight subjects continued to smoke and 20 subjects stopped smoking, demonstrating a CAR up to 18 months (71%). Median time of treatment was 6 (range 3-24) and 2 (range 1-8) months for abstainers and non-abstainers, respectively, and the median time of VA for abstainers was 4 (range 1-21) months. Use of varenicline for more than the traditional 12 recommended weeks may be a good strategy to increase the cessation rate in heavy smokers with mild COPD. © The Author(s), 2016.

Prospective post traumatic stress disorder symptom trajectories in active duty and separated military personnel

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-01-30

the proportion of active duty service members receiving VA care was restricted to zero. This model included all the covariates of the fully adjusted...assessed remained consistent across participants and timepoints. VA care was assessed from self -report, but could not be verified with VA medical...utility of a self -report version of PRIME-MD: the PHQ primary care study. JAMA J. Am. Med. Assoc. 282, 1737e1744. Spitzer, R.L., Williams, J.B

Malaria epidemiology in the Pakaanóva (Wari') Indians, Brazilian Amazon.

PubMed

Sá, D Ribeiro; Souza-Santos, R; Escobar, A L; Coimbra, C E A

2005-04-01

This paper reports the results of a longitudinal study of malaria incidence (1998-2002) among the Pakaanóva (Wari') Indians, Brazilian southwest Amazon region, based on data routinely gathered by Brazilian National Health Foundation outposts network in conjunction with the Indian health service. Malaria is present yearlong in the Pakaanóva. Statistically significant differences between seasons or months were not noticed. A total of 1933 cases of malaria were diagnosed in the Pakaanóva during this period. The P. vivax / P. falciparum ratio was 3.4. P. vivax accounted for 76.5% of the cases. Infections with P. malariae were not recorded. Incidence rates did not differ by sex. Most malaria cases were reported in children < 10 years old (45%). About one fourth of all cases were diagnosed on women 10-40 years old. An entomological survey carried out at two Pakaanóva villages yielded a total of 3.232 specimens of anophelines. Anopheles darlingi predominated (94.4%). Most specimens were captured outdoors and peak activity hours were noted at early evening and just before sunrise. It was observed that Pakaanóva cultural practices may facilitate outdoor exposure of individuals of both sexes and all age groups during peak hours of mosquito activities (e.g., coming to the river early in the morning for bathing or to draw water, fishing, engaging in hunting camps, etc). In a context in which anophelines are ubiquitous and predominantly exophilic, and humans of both sexes and all ages are prone to outdoor activities during peak mosquito activity hours, malaria is likely to remain endemic in the Pakaanóva, thus requiring the development of alternative control strategies that are culturally and ecologically sensitive.

Improvement of visual acuity in children with anisometropic amblyopia treated with rotated prisms combined with near activity

PubMed Central

Lin, Chao-Chyun; Chen, Po-Liang

2013-01-01

AIM To evaluate the efficacy of a new modality for improving visual acuity (VA) in pediatric patients with anisometropic amblyopia. METHODS Retrospective and interventional case series. Medical records of 360 children with anisometropic amblyopia treated with a modality that included rotated prisms, lenses, and near activities from January 2008 to January 2012 were analyzed. Characteristics such as improvement of VA and contrast sensitivity in amblyopic eyes and resolution of amblyopia (VA ≤0.1logMAR or a difference of ≤2 lines in logMAR between the eyes) were assessed. RESULTS Among the patients, the mean VA of the amblyopic eyes improved from 0.48logMAR (SD=0.16) to 0.12logMAR (SD=0.16) and the mean VA improvement was 0.36logMAR (SD=0.10, P<0.001). Resolution of amblyopia was achieved in 233 of 360 patients (64.72%). The mean time for resolution of amblyopia was 8.05 weeks (SD=4.83) or 14.14 sessions (SD=8.76). Among the study group, refraction error did not change significantly after treatment (P=0.437). We found that better baseline VA may be related to success and shorten the time to amblyopic resolution. CONCLUSION VA and contrast sensitivity improved with rotated prisms, correcting lenses, and near activities in children with anisometropic amblyopia. The VA improvement by this modality was comparable to other methods. However, the time to resolution of amblyopia was shorter with this method than with other modalities. Rotated prisms combined with near acuity could provide an alternative treatment in children with anisometropic amblyopia who can't tolerant traditional therapy method like patching. PMID:23991384

76 FR 21802 - Advisory Committee on the Readjustment of Veterans Notice of Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-04-18

... VA mental health program activities with special attention to mental health services for retuning war Veterans and on VA's caregiver programs developed to assure support services for severely wounded combat... evaluate the availability and effectiveness of VA programs to meet these needs. On April 28, the Committee...

77 FR 39346 - Proposed Information Collection (Statement of Accredited Representative in Appealed Case, VA Form...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-07-02

... in Appealed Case, VA Form 646. OMB Control Number: 2900-0042. Type of Review: Extension of a... (Statement of Accredited Representative in Appealed Case, VA Form 646) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY: The Board of Veterans' Appeals (BVA), Department of Veterans Affairs. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: The Board of...

FACILITIES FOR EDUCATION IN VA HOSPITALS. FINAL REPORT.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

GREEN, ALAN C.; AND OTHERS

THIS STUDY WAS AUTHORIZED BY THE VA DEPARTMENT OF MEDICINE AND SURGERY FOR THE PURPOSE OF IDENTIFYING AND DETERMINING THE FACILITIES NEEDED TO PROPERLY HOUSE AND SUPPORT EDUCATION ACTIVITIES IN EXISTING AND FUTURE VA HOSPITALS AND TO PRODUCE ARCHITECTURAL GUIDANCE IN THE DESIGN OF THE FACILITIES. CURRENT PRACTICES AND SIGNIFICANT TRENDS IN MEDICAL…

Voluntary exercise contributed to an amelioration of abnormal feeding behavior, locomotor activity and ghrelin production concomitantly with a weight reduction in high fat diet-induced obese rats.

PubMed

Mifune, Hiroharu; Tajiri, Yuji; Nishi, Yoshihiro; Hara, Kento; Iwata, Shimpei; Tokubuchi, Ichiro; Mitsuzono, Ryouichi; Yamada, Kentaro; Kojima, Masayasu

2015-09-01

In the present study, effects of voluntary exercise in an obese animal model were investigated in relation to the rhythm of daily activity and ghrelin production. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed either a high fat diet (HFD) or a chow diet (CD) from four to 16 weeks old. They were further subdivided into either an exercise group (HFD-Ex, CD-Ex) with a running wheel for three days of every other week or sedentary group (HFD-Se, CD-Se). At 16 weeks old, marked increases in body weight and visceral fat were observed in the HFD-Se group, together with disrupted rhythms of feeding and locomotor activity. The induction of voluntary exercise brought about an effective reduction of weight and fat, and ameliorated abnormal rhythms of activity and feeding in the HFD-Ex rats. Wheel counts as voluntary exercise was greater in HFD-Ex rats than those in CD-Ex rats. The HFD-obese had exhibited a deterioration of ghrelin production, which was restored by the induction of voluntary exercise. These findings demonstrated that abnormal rhythms of feeding and locomotor activity in HFD-obese rats were restored by infrequent voluntary exercise with a concomitant amelioration of the ghrelin production and weight reduction. Because ghrelin is related to food anticipatory activity, it is plausible that ghrelin participates in the circadian rhythm of daily activity including eating behavior. A beneficial effect of voluntary exercise has now been confirmed in terms of the amelioration of the daily rhythms in eating behavior and physical activity in an animal model of obesity. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

38 CFR 18.406 - Remedial action, voluntary action and self-evaluation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

..., voluntary action and self-evaluation. 18.406 Section 18.406 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief... Basis of Handicap General Provisions § 18.406 Remedial action, voluntary action and self-evaluation. (a... treatment within the program or activity. (b) Voluntary action. A recipient may take steps, in addition to...

38 CFR 18.406 - Remedial action, voluntary action and self-evaluation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

..., voluntary action and self-evaluation. 18.406 Section 18.406 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief... Basis of Handicap General Provisions § 18.406 Remedial action, voluntary action and self-evaluation. (a... treatment within the program or activity. (b) Voluntary action. A recipient may take steps, in addition to...

38 CFR 18.406 - Remedial action, voluntary action and self-evaluation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

..., voluntary action and self-evaluation. 18.406 Section 18.406 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief... Basis of Handicap General Provisions § 18.406 Remedial action, voluntary action and self-evaluation. (a... treatment within the program or activity. (b) Voluntary action. A recipient may take steps, in addition to...

38 CFR 18.406 - Remedial action, voluntary action and self-evaluation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

..., voluntary action and self-evaluation. 18.406 Section 18.406 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief... Basis of Handicap General Provisions § 18.406 Remedial action, voluntary action and self-evaluation. (a... treatment within the program or activity. (b) Voluntary action. A recipient may take steps, in addition to...

42 CFR 137.205 - Will this voluntary uniform data set reporting activity be required of all Self-Governance Tribes...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 42 Public Health 1 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Will this voluntary uniform data set reporting... Provisions Health Status Reports § 137.205 Will this voluntary uniform data set reporting activity be... resources, hardware, software, and technical assistance to the Self-Governance Tribes to facilitate data...

42 CFR 137.205 - Will this voluntary uniform data set reporting activity be required of all Self-Governance Tribes...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 42 Public Health 1 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Will this voluntary uniform data set reporting... Provisions Health Status Reports § 137.205 Will this voluntary uniform data set reporting activity be... resources, hardware, software, and technical assistance to the Self-Governance Tribes to facilitate data...

42 CFR 137.205 - Will this voluntary uniform data set reporting activity be required of all Self-Governance Tribes...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 42 Public Health 1 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Will this voluntary uniform data set reporting... Provisions Health Status Reports § 137.205 Will this voluntary uniform data set reporting activity be... resources, hardware, software, and technical assistance to the Self-Governance Tribes to facilitate data...

42 CFR 137.205 - Will this voluntary uniform data set reporting activity be required of all Self-Governance Tribes...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 42 Public Health 1 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Will this voluntary uniform data set reporting... Provisions Health Status Reports § 137.205 Will this voluntary uniform data set reporting activity be... resources, hardware, software, and technical assistance to the Self-Governance Tribes to facilitate data...

77 FR 20887 - Proposed Information Collection (National Acquisition Center Customer Response Survey) Activity...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-06

... information needed to measure customer satisfaction with delivered products and services. DATES: Written... (National Acquisition Center Customer Response Survey) Activity; Comment Request AGENCY: Office of...: Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) National Acquisition Center Customer Response Survey, VA Form 0863. OMB...

75 FR 16912 - Proposed Information Collection (Dental Patient Satisfaction Survey) Activity: Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-04-02

... Collection (Dental Patient Satisfaction Survey) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans Health... notice. This notice solicits comments for information needed to measure patients' satisfaction with VA's.... Title: Survey of Healthcare Experiences, Dental Patient Satisfaction Survey, VA Form 10-0503. OMB...

75 FR 33898 - Agency Information Collection (VA Loan Electronic Reporting Interface (VALERI) System) Activity...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-06-15

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0021] Agency Information Collection (VA Loan Electronic Reporting Interface (VALERI) System) Activity Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits... Administration (VBA), Department of Veterans Affairs, will submit the collection of information abstracted below...

78 FR 35661 - Proposed Information Collection (Disability Benefits Questionnaires) Activity: Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-13

... (Disability Benefits Questionnaires) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans Benefits Administration.... Ischemic Heart Disease (IHD) Disability Benefits Questionnaire, VA Form 21-0960a-1. b. Hairy Cell and Other B-Cell Leukemias Disability Benefits Questionnaire, VA Form 21-0960b-1. c. Parkinson's Disease...

75 FR 32539 - Agency Information Collection (Dental Patient Satisfaction Survey) Activities Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-06-08

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-New (VA Form 10-0503)] Agency Information Collection (Dental Patient Satisfaction Survey) Activities Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Health...).'' Title: Survey of Healthcare Experiences, Dental Patient Satisfaction Survey, VA Form 10-0503. OMB...

75 FR 62636 - Proposed Information Collection (Veterans Health Benefits Handbook Satisfaction Survey) Activity...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-10-12

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-New (VA Form 10-0507)] Proposed Information Collection (Veterans Health Benefits Handbook Satisfaction Survey) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans... information technology. Title: Veterans Health Benefits Handbook Satisfaction Survey, VA Form 10-0507. OMB...

76 FR 625 - Proposed Information Collection (Veterans Health Benefits Handbook Satisfaction Survey) Activity...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-01-05

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900--New (VA Form 10-0507)] Proposed Information Collection (Veterans Health Benefits Handbook Satisfaction Survey) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans...).'' SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Title: Veterans Health Benefits Handbook Satisfaction Survey, VA Form 10-0507. OMB...

A Decade’s Experience With Quality Improvement in Cardiac Surgery Using the Veterans Affairs and Society of Thoracic Surgeons National Databases

PubMed Central

Grover, Frederick L.; Shroyer, A. Laurie W.; Hammermeister, Karl; Edwards, Fred H.; Ferguson, T. Bruce; Dziuban, Stanley W.; Cleveland, Joseph C.; Clark, Richard E.; McDonald, Gerald

2001-01-01

Objective To review the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) and the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) national databases over the past 10 years to evaluate their relative similarities and differences, to appraise their use as quality improvement tools, and to assess their potential to facilitate improvements in quality of cardiac surgical care. Summary Background Data The VA developed a mandatory risk-adjusted database in 1987 to monitor outcomes of cardiac surgery at all VA medical centers. In 1989 the STS developed a voluntary risk-adjusted database to help members assess quality and outcomes in their individual programs and to facilitate improvements in quality of care. Methods A short data form on every veteran operated on at each VA medical center is completed and transmitted electronically for analysis of unadjusted and risk-adjusted death and complications, as well as length of stay. Masked, confidential semiannual reports are then distributed to each program’s clinical team and the associated administrator. These reports are also reviewed by a national quality oversight committee. Thus, VA data are used both locally for quality improvement and at the national level with quality surveillance. The STS dataset (217 core fields and 255 extended fields) is transmitted for each patient semiannually to the Duke Clinical Research Institute (DCRI) for warehousing, analysis, and distribution. Site-specific reports are produced with regional and national aggregate comparisons for unadjusted and adjusted surgical deaths and complications, as well as length of stay for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), valvular procedures, and valvular/CABG procedures. Both databases use the logistic regression modeling approach. Data for key processes of care are also captured in both databases. Research projects are frequently carried out using each database. Results More than 74,000 and 1.6 million cardiac surgical patients have been entered into the VA and STS databases, respectively. Risk factors that predict surgical death for CABG are very similar in the two databases, as are the odds ratios for most of the risk factors. One major difference is that the VA is 99% male, the STS 71% male. Both databases have shown a significant reduction in the risk-adjusted surgical death rate during the past decade despite the fact that patients have presented with an increased risk factor profile. The ratio of observed to expected deaths decreased from 1.05 to 0.9 for the VA and from 1.5 to 0.9 for the STS. Conclusion It appears that the routine feedback of risk-adjusted data on local performance provided by these programs heightens awareness and leads to self-examination and self-assessment, which in turn improves quality and outcomes. This general quality improvement template should be considered for application in other settings beyond cardiac surgery. PMID:11573040

Feeding frequency, but not dietary water content, affects voluntary physical activity in young lean adult female cats.

PubMed

de Godoy, M R C; Ochi, K; de Oliveira Mateus, L F; de Justino, A C C; Swanson, K S

2015-05-01

The objective of this study was to investigate whether increased dietary water content and feeding frequency increased voluntary physical activity of young, lean adult female cats. A replicated 4 × 4 Latin square design with a 2 × 2 factorial treatment arrangement (feeding frequency and water content) was used. The 4 treatments consisted of 1 meal daily dry pet food without added water (1D; 12% moisture as is), 1 meal daily dry pet food with added water (1W; 70% total water content), 4 meals daily dry pet food without added water (4D; 12% moisture as is), and 4 meals daily dry pet food with added water (4W; 70% total water content). Eight healthy adult, lean, intact, young, female domestic shorthair cats were used in this experiment. Voluntary physical activity was evaluated using Actical activity monitors placed on collars and worn around the cats' necks for the last 7 d of each experimental period of 14 d. Food anticipatory activity (FAA) was calculated based on 2 h prior to feeding periods and expressed as a percentage of total daily voluntary physical activity. Increased feeding frequency (4 vs. 1 meal daily) resulted in greater average daily activity (P = 0.0147), activity during the light period (P = 0.0023), and light:dark activity ratio (P = 0.0002). In contrast, physical activity during the dark period was not altered by feeding frequency (P > 0.05). Cats fed 4 meals daily had increased afternoon FAA (P= 0.0029) compared with cats fed once daily. Dietary water content did not affect any measure of voluntary physical activity. Increased feeding frequency is an effective strategy to increase the voluntary physical activity of cats. Thus, it may assist in the prevention and management of obesity.

Plant growth inhibitors isolated from sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) straw.

PubMed

Sampietro, Diego Alejandro; Vattuone, Marta Amelia; Isla, María Ines

2006-07-01

Several compounds related with plant defense and pharmacological activities have been isolated from sugarcane. Straw phytotoxins and their possible mechanisms of growth inhibition are largely unknown. A bioassay-guided fractionation of the phytotoxic constituents leachated from a sugarcane straw led to the isolation of trans-ferulic (trans-FA), cis-ferulic (cis-FA), vanillic (VA) and syringic (SA) acids. The straw leachates and their identified constituents significantly inhibited root growth of lettuce and four weeds. VA was more phytotoxic to root elongation than FA and SA. The identified phenolic compounds significantly increased leakage of root cell constituents, inhibited dehydrogenase activity and reduced chlorophyll content in lettuce. VA and FA inhibited mitotic index while SA increased cell division. Additive (VA-FA and FA-SA) and synergistic (VA-SA) interactions on root growth were observed at the response level of EC(25). Although the isolated compounds differed in their relative phytotoxic activities, the observed physiological responses suggest that they have a common mode of action. HPLC analysis indicated that sugarcane straw can potentially release 1.43 (ratio 2:1, trans:cis), 1.14 and 0.14mmolkg(-1) (straw dry weight) of FA, VA and SA, respectively. As phenolic acids are often found spatially concentrated in the top soil layers under plant straws, further studies are needed to establish the impact of these compounds in natural settings.

78 FR 40551 - Agency Information Collection (Monthly Certification of Flight Training) Activity Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-07-05

... Certification of Flight Training) Activity Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits Administration, Department...-0162.'' SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Title: Monthly Certification of Flight Training, VA Form 22-6553c... or pursuing approved vocational flight training. VA Form 22-6553c serves as a report of flight...

77 FR 2351 - Agency Information Collection (Application for Work-Study Allowance): Activity Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-01-17

... (Application for Work-Study Allowance): Activity Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits Administration... ``OMB Control No. 2900-0209.'' SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Titles a. Application for Work-Study Allowance, VA Form 22-8691. b. Student Work-Study Agreement (Advance Payment), VA Form 22-8692. c. Extended...

77 FR 38398 - Agency Information Collection (National Acquisition Center Customer Response Survey) Activities...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-27

... Acquisition Center Customer Response Survey) Activities Under OMB Review AGENCY: Office of Acquisition and... INFORMATION: Title: Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) National Acquisition Center Customer Response Survey... collection. Abstract: VA Form 0863 will be used to collect customer's feedback and suggestions on delivered...

75 FR 9490 - Proposed Information Collection (Ethics Consultation Feedback Tool (ECFT)) Activity: Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-03-02

... Collection (Ethics Consultation Feedback Tool (ECFT)) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans Health... notice. This notice solicits comments for information needed to improve the process of ethics.... Title: Ethics Consultation Feedback Tool (ECFT), VA Form 10-0502. OMB Control Number: 2900-New (VA Form...

76 FR 9637 - Proposed Information Collection (Veteran Suicide Prevention Online Quantitative Surveys) Activity...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-02-18

... Collection (Veteran Suicide Prevention Online Quantitative Surveys) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY... techniques or the use of other forms of information technology. Titles a. Veterans Online Survey, VA Form 10-0513: b. Veterans Family Online Survey, VA Form 10-0513a. c. Veterans Primary Care Provider Online...

5 CFR 950.108 - Preventing coercive activity.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... PRIVATE VOLUNTARY ORGANIZATIONS General Provisions § 950.108 Preventing coercive activity. True voluntary... Section 950.108 Administrative Personnel OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED) CIVIL SERVICE... the supervisor's unit or organization. ...

5 CFR 950.108 - Preventing coercive activity.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... PRIVATE VOLUNTARY ORGANIZATIONS General Provisions § 950.108 Preventing coercive activity. True voluntary... Section 950.108 Administrative Personnel OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED) CIVIL SERVICE... the supervisor's unit or organization. ...

5 CFR 950.108 - Preventing coercive activity.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... PRIVATE VOLUNTARY ORGANIZATIONS General Provisions § 950.108 Preventing coercive activity. True voluntary... Section 950.108 Administrative Personnel OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED) CIVIL SERVICE... the supervisor's unit or organization. ...

5 CFR 950.108 - Preventing coercive activity.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... PRIVATE VOLUNTARY ORGANIZATIONS General Provisions § 950.108 Preventing coercive activity. True voluntary... Section 950.108 Administrative Personnel OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED) CIVIL SERVICE... the supervisor's unit or organization. ...

Comparing Catheter-associated Urinary Tract Infection Prevention Programs Between VA and Non-VA Nursing Homes

PubMed Central

Mody, Lona; Greene, M. Todd; Saint, Sanjay; Meddings, Jennifer; Trautner, Barbara W.; Wald, Heidi L.; Crnich, Christopher; Banaszak-Holl, Jane; McNamara, Sara E.; King, Beth J.; Hogikyan, Robert; Edson, Barbara; Krein, Sarah L.

2018-01-01

OBJECTIVE The impact of healthcare system integration on infection prevention programs is unknown. Using catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) prevention as an example, we hypothesize that U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) nursing homes have a more robust infection prevention infrastructure due to integration and centralization compared with non-VA nursing homes. SETTING VA and non-VA nursing homes participating in the “AHRQ Safety Program for Long-term Care” collaborative. METHODS Nursing homes provided baseline information about their infection prevention programs to assess strengths and gaps related to CAUTI prevention. RESULTS A total of 353 (71%; 47 VA, 306 non-VA) of 494 nursing homes from 41 states responded. VA nursing homes reported more hours/week devoted to infection prevention-related activities (31 vs. 12 hours, P<.001), and were more likely to have committees that reviewed healthcare-associated infections. Compared with non-VA facilities, a higher percentage of VA nursing homes reported tracking CAUTI rates (94% vs. 66%, P<.001), sharing CAUTI data with leadership (94% vs. 70%, P=.014) and nursing personnel (85% vs. 56%, P=.003). However, fewer VA nursing homes reported having policies for appropriate catheter use (64% vs. 81%, P=.004) and catheter insertion (83% vs. 94%, P=.004). CONCLUSIONS Among nursing homes participating in an AHRQ-funded collaborative, VA and non-VA nursing homes differed in their approach to CAUTI prevention. Best practices from both settings should be applied universally to create an optimal infection prevention program within emerging integrated healthcare systems. PMID:27917728

75 FR 67983 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comment Request, Guidance for...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-11-04

... guidance describes the voluntary genomic data submission (VGDS) that can be used for such a voluntary... per Total hours respondents response responses response Voluntary Genomic Data Submissions Total 7 1 7...

76 FR 35950 - Agency Information Collection Activity (Living Will and Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-06-20

... (Living Will and Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care) Under OMB Review AGENCY: Department of... INFORMATION Title: Living Will and Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care, VA Form 10-0137. OMB Control... admitted to a VA medical facility complete VA Form 10-0137 to appoint a health care agent to make decision...

Productivity of Veterans Health Administration laboratories: a College of American Pathologists Laboratory Management Index Program (LMIP) study.

PubMed

Valenstein, Paul N; Wang, Edward; O'Donohue, Tom

2003-12-01

The Veterans Health Administration (VA) operates the largest integrated laboratory network in the United States. To assess whether the unique characteristics of VA laboratories impact efficiency of operations, we compared the productivity of VA and non-VA facilities. Financial and activity data were prospectively collected from 124 VA and 131 non-VA laboratories enrolled in the College of American Pathologists Laboratory Management Index Program (LMIP) during 2002. In addition, secular trends in 5 productivity ratios were calculated for VA and non-VA laboratories enrolled in LMIP from 1997 through 2002. Veterans Health Administration and non-VA facilities did not differ significantly in size. Inpatients accounted for a lower percentage of testing at VA facilities than non-VA facilities (21.7% vs 37.3%; P <.001). Technical staff at the median VA facility were paid more than at non-VA facilities (28.11/h dollars vs 22.60/h dollars, salaries plus benefits; P <.001), VA laboratories employed a smaller percentage of nontechnical staff (30.0% vs 41.9%; P <.001), and workers at VA laboratories worked less time per hour paid (85.5% vs 88.5%; P <.001). However, labor productivity was significantly higher at VA than at non-VA facilities (30 448 test results/total full-time equivalent (FTE)/y vs 19 260 results/total FTE; P <.001), resulting in lower labor expense per on-site test at VA sites than at non-VA sites (1.79 dollars/result vs 2.08 dollars/result; P <.001). Veterans Health Administration laboratories paid less per test for consumables (P =.003), depreciation, and maintenance than their non-VA counterparts (all P <.001), resulting in lower overall cost per on-site test result (2.64 dollars vs 3.40 dollars; P <.001). Cost per referred (sent-out) test did not differ significantly between the 2 groups. Analysis of 6-year trends showed significant increases in both VA (P <.001) and non-VA (P =.02) labor productivity (on-site tests/total FTE). Expenses at VA laboratories for labor per test, consumables per test, overall expense per test, and overall laboratory expense per discharge decreased significantly during the 6-year period (P <.001), while in non-VA facilities the corresponding ratios showed no significant change. Overall productivity of VA laboratories is superior to that of non-VA facilities enrolled in LMIP. The principal advantages enjoyed by the VA are higher-than-average labor productivity (tests/FTE) and lower-than-average consumable expenses.

Cat vestibular neurons that exhibit different responses to active and passive yaw head rotations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Robinson, F. R.; Tomko, D. L.

1987-01-01

Neurons in the vestibular nuclei were recorded in alert cats during voluntary yaw rotations of the head and during the same rotations delivered with a turntable driven from a record of previous voluntary movements. During both voluntary and passive rotations, 35 percent (6/17) of neurons tested responded at higher rates or for a larger part of the movement during voluntary movements than during the same rotations delivered with the turntable. Neck sensory input was evaluated separately in many of these cells and can account qualitatively for the extra firing present during active movement.

Visual processing of multiple elements in the dyslexic brain: evidence for a superior parietal dysfunction

PubMed Central

Lobier, Muriel A.; Peyrin, Carole; Pichat, Cédric; Le Bas, Jean-François; Valdois, Sylviane

2014-01-01

The visual attention (VA) span deficit hypothesis of developmental dyslexia posits that impaired multiple element processing can be responsible for poor reading outcomes. In VA span impaired dyslexic children, poor performance on letter report tasks is associated with reduced parietal activations for multiple letter processing. While this hints towards a non-specific, attention-based dysfunction, it is still unclear whether reduced parietal activity generalizes to other types of stimuli. Furthermore, putative links between reduced parietal activity and reduced ventral occipito-temporal (vOT) in dyslexia have yet to be explored. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging, we measured brain activity in 12 VA span impaired dyslexic adults and 12 adult skilled readers while they carried out a categorization task on single or multiple alphanumeric or non-alphanumeric characters. While healthy readers activated parietal areas more strongly for multiple than single element processing (right-sided for alphanumeric and bilateral for non-alphanumeric), similar stronger multiple element right parietal activations were absent for dyslexic participants. Contrasts between skilled and dyslexic readers revealed significantly reduced right superior parietal lobule (SPL) activity for dyslexic readers regardless of stimuli type. Using a priori anatomically defined regions of interest, we showed that neural activity was reduced for dyslexic participants in both SPL and vOT bilaterally. Finally, we used multiple regressions to test whether SPL activity was related to vOT activity in each group. In the left hemisphere, SPL activity covaried with vOT activity for both normal and dyslexic readers. In contrast, in the right hemisphere, SPL activity covaried with vOT activity only for dyslexic readers. These results bring critical support to the VA interpretation of the VA Span deficit. In addition, they offer a new insight on how deficits in automatic vOT based word recognition could arise in developmental dyslexia. PMID:25071509

75 FR 77958 - Agency Information Collection (Statement of Dependency of Parent(s)) Activity Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-12-14

... (Statement of Dependency of Parent(s)) Activity Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits Administration...: Statement of Dependency of Parent(s), VA Form 21-509. OMB Control Number: 2900-0089. Type of Review... VA Form 21-509 to report income and dependency information. Surviving parents of deceased veterans...

76 FR 27384 - Agency Information Collection Activity (Veteran Suicide Prevention Online Quantitative Surveys...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-05-11

... Collection Activity (Veteran Suicide Prevention Online Quantitative Surveys) Under OMB Review AGENCY... techniques or the use of other forms of information technology. Titles a. Veterans Online Survey, VA Form 10-0513. b. Veterans Family Online Survey, VA Form 10-0513a. c. Veterans Primary Care Provider Online...

78 FR 59773 - Proposed Information Collection (VA Request for Determination of Reasonable Value) Activity...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-09-27

... Request for Determination of Reasonable Value) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans Benefits... to determine the reasonable value of properties for guaranteed or direct home loans. DATES: Written... Reasonable Value, VA Form 26-1805 and 26-1805-1. OMB Control Number: 2900-0045. Type of Review: Revision of a...

75 FR 61249 - Proposed Information Collection (VA Request for Determination of Reasonable Value) Activity...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-10-04

... Request for Determination of Reasonable Value) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans Benefits... information needed to determine the reasonable value of properties for guaranteed or direct home loans. DATES... Request for Determination of Reasonable Value, VA Form 26-1805 and 26-1805-1. OMB Control Number: 2900...

75 FR 61858 - Proposed Information Collection (VA Request for Determination of Reasonable Value) Activity...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-10-06

... Request for Determination of Reasonable Value) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans Benefits... to determine the reasonable value of properties for guaranteed or direct home loans. DATES: Written... Reasonable Value, VA Form 26-1805 and 26-1805-1. OMB Control Number: 2900-0045. Type of Review: Extension of...

77 FR 35114 - Agency Information Collection (NCA PreNeed Burial Planning) Activity Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-12

...Need Burial Planning) Activity Under OMB Review AGENCY: National Cemetery Administration, Department of... PreNeed Burial Planning, VA Form 40-10007. OMB Control Number: 2900--New. Type of Review: New... members, and their eligible family members with planning for burial in a VA national cemetery. This...

9 CFR 354.25 - Political activity.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... ORGANIZATION AND TERMINOLOGY; MANDATORY MEAT AND POULTRY PRODUCTS INSPECTION AND VOLUNTARY INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION VOLUNTARY INSPECTION OF RABBITS AND EDIBLE PRODUCTS THEREOF Performance of Services § 354.25... licenses, to take an active part in political management or in political campaigns. Political activity in...

9 CFR 354.25 - Political activity.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... ORGANIZATION AND TERMINOLOGY; MANDATORY MEAT AND POULTRY PRODUCTS INSPECTION AND VOLUNTARY INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION VOLUNTARY INSPECTION OF RABBITS AND EDIBLE PRODUCTS THEREOF Performance of Services § 354.25... licenses, to take an active part in political management or in political campaigns. Political activity in...

9 CFR 354.25 - Political activity.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... ORGANIZATION AND TERMINOLOGY; MANDATORY MEAT AND POULTRY PRODUCTS INSPECTION AND VOLUNTARY INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION VOLUNTARY INSPECTION OF RABBITS AND EDIBLE PRODUCTS THEREOF Performance of Services § 354.25... licenses, to take an active part in political management or in political campaigns. Political activity in...

9 CFR 354.25 - Political activity.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... ORGANIZATION AND TERMINOLOGY; MANDATORY MEAT AND POULTRY PRODUCTS INSPECTION AND VOLUNTARY INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION VOLUNTARY INSPECTION OF RABBITS AND EDIBLE PRODUCTS THEREOF Performance of Services § 354.25... licenses, to take an active part in political management or in political campaigns. Political activity in...

9 CFR 354.25 - Political activity.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... ORGANIZATION AND TERMINOLOGY; MANDATORY MEAT AND POULTRY PRODUCTS INSPECTION AND VOLUNTARY INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION VOLUNTARY INSPECTION OF RABBITS AND EDIBLE PRODUCTS THEREOF Performance of Services § 354.25... licenses, to take an active part in political management or in political campaigns. Political activity in...

Activation energy-activation volume master plots for ion transport behavior in polymer electrolytes and supercooled molten salts.

PubMed

Ingram, Malcolm D; Imrie, Corrie T; Stoeva, Zlatka; Pas, Steven J; Funke, Klaus; Chandler, Howard W

2005-09-08

We demonstrate the use of activation energy versus activation volume "master plots" to explore ion transport in typical fragile glass forming systems exhibiting non-Arrhenius behavior. These systems include solvent-free salt complexes in poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and low molecular weight poly(propylene oxide) (PPO) and molten 2Ca(NO3)2.3KNO3 (CKN). Plots showing variations in apparent activation energy EA versus apparent activation volume VA are straight lines with slopes given by M = DeltaEA/DeltaVA. A simple ion transport mechanism is described where the rate determining step involves a dilatation (expressed as VA) around microscopic cavities and a corresponding work of expansion (EA). The slopes of the master plots M are equated to internal elastic moduli, which vary from 1.1 GPa for liquid PPO to 5.0 GPa for molten CKN on account of differing intermolecular forces in these materials.

Ophthalmic Manifestations and Causes of Vision Impairment in Ebola Virus Disease Survivors in Monrovia, Liberia.

PubMed

Shantha, Jessica G; Crozier, Ian; Hayek, Brent R; Bruce, Beau B; Gargu, Catherine; Brown, Jerry; Fankhauser, John; Yeh, Steven

2017-02-01

To describe the ocular findings, visual impairment, and association of structural complications of uveitis with visual impairment in a cohort of survivors of Ebola virus disease (EVD) in Monrovia, Liberia. Retrospective, uncontrolled, cross-sectional study. Survivors of EVD who were evaluated in an ophthalmology clinic at Eternal Love Winning Africa (ELWA) Hospital in Monrovia, Liberia. A cohort of EVD survivors who underwent baseline ophthalmic evaluation at ELWA Hospital were retrospectively reviewed for demographic information, length of Ebola treatment unit (ETU) stay, visual acuity (VA), and ophthalmic examination findings. For patients with uveitis, disease activity (active vs. inactive) and grade of inflammation were recorded according to Standardization of Uveitis Nomenclature criteria. The level of VA impairment was categorized according to World Health Organization classification for VA impairment as follows: normal/mild, VA 20/70 or better; moderate, VA 20/70-20/200; severe, VA 20/200-20/400; blindness, VA <20/400. Visual acuity, length of ETU stay, and structural complications were compared between EVD survivors with and without uveitis. Structural complications associated with moderate VA impairment or poorer were analyzed. Frequency of ocular complications including uveitis and optic neuropathy in EVD survivors, level of VA impairment in EVD survivors with uveitis, and structural complications associated with VA impairment in EVD survivors. A total of 96 survivors of EVD were examined. A total of 21 patients developed an EVD-associated uveitis, and 3 patients developed an EVD-associated optic neuropathy. Visual acuity was blind (VA >20/400) in 38.5% of eyes with uveitis. Anatomic subtypes of uveitis included anterior, posterior, and panuveitis in 2, 13, and 6 patients, respectively. Examination findings associated with at least moderate visual impairment by World Health Organization criteria (VA <20/70) included keratic precipitates (P < 0.002), posterior synechiae (P < 0.002), vitritis (P < 0.005), and chorioretinal scars (P < 0.02). Survivors of EVD are at risk for uveitis, which may lead to secondary structural complications, visual impairment, and blindness. Eye care resources should be mobilized for EVD survivors in West Africa because of the frequency of this spectrum of disease complication and its potential for severe VA impairment and blindness. Copyright © 2016 American Academy of Ophthalmology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Social withdrawal of persons with vascular dementia associated with disturbance of basic daily activities, apathy, and impaired social judgment.

PubMed

Honda, Yukiko; Meguro, Kenichi; Meguro, Mitsue; Akanuma, Kyoko

2013-01-01

Patients with vascular dementia (VaD) are often isolated, withdrawn from society because of negative symptoms and functional disabilities. The aim of this study was to detect factors associated with social withdrawal in patients with VaD. The participants were 36 institutionalized patients with VaD. Social withdrawal was assessed with the social withdrawal of the Multidimensional Observation Scale for Elderly Subjects (MOSES). Possible explanatory variables were the MOSES items depression and self-care, Cognitive Abilities Screening Instrument (CASI), apathy evaluation scale (AES), and Behavioral Pathology in Alzheimer's Disease Frequency-Weighted Severity Scale (BEHAVE-AD-FW). Multiple regression analyses were conducted for two groups: Analysis 1 was performed in all patients (N = 36) and Analysis 2 was performed in the patients with the ability to move by themselves (i.e., independent walking or independent movement with a cane or a wheelchair; n = 28). In Analysis 1, MOSES item social withdrawal was correlated with AES and MOSES item self-care. In Analysis 2, MOSES item social withdrawal was correlated with AES and CASI domain abstraction and judgment. Decreased social activities of VaD were not related to general cognitive function or depression. Disturbed activities of daily living (ADLs) for self-care may involve decreased frontal lobe function, indicating that comprehensive rehabilitation for both ADL and dementia are needed to improve the social activities of patients with VaD.

76 FR 6621 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission for Office of Management and Budget Review...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-02-07

... voluntary genomic data submission (VGDS) that can be used for such a voluntary submission. The guidance does... Respondents response responses response Voluntary Genomic Data Submissions 7 1 7 50 350 \\1\\ There are no...

75 FR 54232 - Geriatrics and Gerontology Advisory Committee; Notice of Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-09-03

... and programs to meet the medical, psychological, and social needs of older Veterans and evaluates VA... activities, update on VA's geriatric workforce (to include training, recruitment and retention approaches...

Effect of voluntary physical activity initiated at age 7 months on skeletal hindlimb and cardiac muscle function in mdx mice of both genders.

PubMed

Ferry, Arnaud; Benchaouir, Rachid; Joanne, Pierre; Peat, Rachel A; Mougenot, Nathalie; Agbulut, Onnik; Butler-Browne, Gillian

2015-11-01

The effects of voluntary activity initiated in adult mdx (C57BL/10ScSc-DMD(mdx) /J) mice on skeletal and cardiac muscle function have not been studied extensively. We studied the effects of 3 months of voluntary wheel running initiated at age 7 months on hindlimb muscle weakness, increased susceptibility to muscle contraction-induced injury, and left ventricular function in mdx mice. We found that voluntary wheel running did not worsen the deficit in force-generating capacity and the force drop after lengthening contractions in either mdx mouse gender. It increased the absolute maximal force of skeletal muscle in female mdx mice. Moreover, it did not affect left ventricular function, structural heart dimensions, cardiac gene expression of inflammation, fibrosis, or remodeling markers. These results indicate that voluntary activity initiated at age 7 months had no detrimental effects on skeletal or cardiac muscles in either mdx mouse gender. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Impact of Different Body Positions on Bioelectrical Activity of the Pelvic Floor Muscles in Nulliparous Continent Women

PubMed Central

Chmielewska, Daria; Stania, Magdalena; Sobota, Grzegorz; Kwaśna, Krystyna; Błaszczak, Edward; Taradaj, Jakub; Juras, Grzegorz

2015-01-01

We examined pelvic floor muscles (PFM) activity (%MVC) in twenty nulliparous women by body position during exercise as well as the activation of abdominal muscles and the gluteus maximus during voluntary contractions of the PFMs. Pelvic floor muscle activity was recorded using a vaginal probe during five experimental trials. Activation of transversus abdominis, rectus abdominis, and gluteus maximus during voluntary PFM contractions was also assessed. Significant differences in mean normalized amplitudes of baseline PFM activity were revealed between standing and lying (P < 0.00024) and lying and ball-sitting positions (P < 0.0053). Average peak, average time before peak, and average time after peak did not differ significantly during the voluntary contractions of the PFMs. Baseline PFM activity seemed to depend on the body position and was the highest in standing. Pelvic floor muscles activity during voluntary contractions did not differ by position in continent women. Statistically significant differences between the supine lying and sitting positions were only observed during a sustained 60-second contraction of the PFMs. PMID:25793212

Methotrexate in ocular manifestations of Behcet's disease: a longitudinal study up to 15 years.

PubMed

Davatchi, Fereydoun; Shams, Hormoz; Shahram, Farhad; Nadji, Abdolhadi; Chams-Davatchi, Cheyda; Sadeghi Abdollahi, Bahar; Faezi, Tahereh; Akhlaghi, Massoomeh; Ashofteh, Farimah

2013-10-01

Ocular manifestations of Behcet's disease (BD) need aggressive treatment to prevent severe loss of vision or blindness. Cytotoxic drugs are the main therapeutic agents and the first line treatment. Methotrexate is the least toxic, used mainly for posterior uveitis. We present here the outcome of eye lesions with methotrexate and prednisolone, in a longitudinal study of up to 15 years, on 682 patients (5447 eye-years of follow-up). Methotrexate was started at 7.5-15 mg/week. Prednisolone was added at 0.5 mg/kg/daily, then adjusted as needed. (i) fulfilling the International Criteria for Behcet's Disease; and (ii) having active posterior uveitis (PU). Visual acuity (VA) was calculated on a scale of 10. Activity indexes were calculated for PU and retinal vasculitis (RV) for each eye. Total Inflammatory Activity Index (TIAI) demonstrating the inflammatory index of both eyes of the patient, and Total Adjusted Disease Activity Index (TADAI) showing both TIAI + VA were also calculated. Overall results: the mean VA improvement was 0.4 (P < 001), PU 1.2 (P < 0.001) and RV 0.6 (P < 0.001). VA improved in 46.5%, PU in 75.4%, and RV in 53.7% of eyes. TIAI improved in 74% of patients and TADAI in 69.4%. VA was aggravated in 37.2%, PU in 11.1%, and RV in 30.3% of eyes. TIAI was aggravated in 17.4% and TADAI in 21.6% of the patients. The remaining kept their baseline values. All parameters improved, PU better than RV. Improvement of VA was the least, mainly due to secondary cataracts. © 2013 Asia Pacific League of Associations for Rheumatology and Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.

78 FR 61002 - Agency Information Collection (Statement of Dependency of Parent(s)) Activity Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-10-02

... (Statement of Dependency of Parent(s)) Activity Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits Administration... INFORMATION: Title: Statement of Dependency of Parent(s), VA Form 21-509. OMB Control Number: 2900-0089. Type...) for support complete VA Form 21-509 to report income and dependency information. Surviving parents of...

77 FR 38396 - Agency Information Collection (Notice of Lapse-Government Life Insurance) Activities Under OMB...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-27

... of Lapse--Government Life Insurance) Activities Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits...--Government Life Insurance, VA Form 29-389. b. Application for Reinstatement, VA Form 29-389-1. OMB Control...-389 and 29-389-1 are used to inform claimants that their government life insurance has lapsed or will...

78 FR 76412 - Agency Information Collection (Application for Reimbursement of National Test Fee) Activity Under...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-12-17

... (Application for Reimbursement of National Test Fee) Activity Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits... National Test Fee, VA Form 22-0810. OMB Control Number: 2900-0706. Type of Review: Revision of a currently... to request reimbursement of national test fees. VA will use the data collected to determine the...

75 FR 78808 - Agency Information Collection (VA Request for Determination of Reasonable Value) Activity Under...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-12-16

... Request for Determination of Reasonable Value) Activity Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits... Determination of Reasonable Value VA Form 26- 1805 and 26-1805-1. OMB Control Number: 2900-0045. Type of Review... alterations does not exceed the reasonable value; or if the loan is for repair, alteration, or improvements of...

76 FR 44089 - Agency Information Collection (Offer To Purchase and Contract of Sale) Activity Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-07-22

... Purchase and Contract of Sale) Activity Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits Administration... Management and Budget (OMB) for review and comment. The PRA submission describes the nature of the... Purchase and Contract of Sale, VA Form 26-6705. b. Credit Statement of Prospective Purchaser, VA Form 26...

Interactions between Leishmania braziliensis and Macrophages Are Dependent on the Cytoskeleton and Myosin Va

PubMed Central

Azevedo, Elisama; Oliveira, Leandro Teixeira; Castro Lima, Ana Karina; Terra, Rodrigo; Dutra, Patrícia Maria Lourenço; Salerno, Verônica P.

2012-01-01

Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease with no effective vaccines. Actin, microtubules and the actin-based molecular motor myosin Va were investigated for their involvement in Leishmania braziliensis macrophage interactions. Results showed a decrease in the association index when macrophages were without F-actin or microtubules regardless of the activation state of the macrophage. In the absence of F-actin, the production of NO in non-activated cells increased, while in activated cells, the production of NO was reduced independent of parasites. The opposite effect of an increased NO production was observed in the absence of microtubules. In activated cells, the loss of cytoskeletal components inhibited the release of IL-10 during parasite interactions. The production of IL-10 also decreased in the absence of actin or microtubules in non-activated macrophages. Only the disruption of actin altered the production of TNF-α in activated macrophages. The expression of myosin Va tail resulted in an acute decrease in the association index between transfected macrophages and L. braziliensis promastigotes. These data reveal the importance of F-actin, microtubules, and myosin-Va suggesting that modulation of the cytoskeleton may be a mechanism used by L. braziliensis to overcome the natural responses of macrophages to establish infections. PMID:22792440

Interactions between Leishmania braziliensis and Macrophages Are Dependent on the Cytoskeleton and Myosin Va.

PubMed

Azevedo, Elisama; Oliveira, Leandro Teixeira; Castro Lima, Ana Karina; Terra, Rodrigo; Dutra, Patrícia Maria Lourenço; Salerno, Verônica P

2012-01-01

Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease with no effective vaccines. Actin, microtubules and the actin-based molecular motor myosin Va were investigated for their involvement in Leishmania braziliensis macrophage interactions. Results showed a decrease in the association index when macrophages were without F-actin or microtubules regardless of the activation state of the macrophage. In the absence of F-actin, the production of NO in non-activated cells increased, while in activated cells, the production of NO was reduced independent of parasites. The opposite effect of an increased NO production was observed in the absence of microtubules. In activated cells, the loss of cytoskeletal components inhibited the release of IL-10 during parasite interactions. The production of IL-10 also decreased in the absence of actin or microtubules in non-activated macrophages. Only the disruption of actin altered the production of TNF-α in activated macrophages. The expression of myosin Va tail resulted in an acute decrease in the association index between transfected macrophages and L. braziliensis promastigotes. These data reveal the importance of F-actin, microtubules, and myosin-Va suggesting that modulation of the cytoskeleton may be a mechanism used by L. braziliensis to overcome the natural responses of macrophages to establish infections.

Isolation and characterization of diesel degrading bacteria, Sphingomonas sp. and Acinetobacter junii from petroleum contaminated soil

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Qiuzhuo; Wang, Duanchao; Li, Mengmeng; Xiang, Wei-Ning; Achal, Varenyam

2014-03-01

Two indigenous bacteria of petroleum contaminated soil were characterized to utilize diesel fuel as the sole carbon and energy sources in this work. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis identified these bacteria as Sphingomonas sp. and Acinetobacter junii. The ability to degrade diesel fuel has been demonstrated for the first time by these isolates. The results of IR analyses showed that Sphingomonas sp. VA1 and A. junii VA2 degraded up to 82.6% and 75.8% of applied diesel over 15 days, respectively. In addition, Sphingomonas sp. VA1 possessed the higher cellular hydrophobicities of 94% for diesel compared to 81% by A. junii VA2. The isolates Sphingomonas sp. VA1 and A. junii VA2 exhibited 24% and 18%, respectively emulsification activity. This study reports two new diesel degrading bacterial species, which can be effectively used for bioremediation of petroleum contaminated sites.

76 FR 8846 - Proposed Information Collection (Disability Benefits Questionnaires-Group 1) Activity: Comment...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-02-15

... Lymphatic Conditions, Including Leukemia Disability Benefits Questionnaire, VA Form 21-0960B-2. b..., VA Form 21-0960M-14. k. Tumors and Neoplasms (Except Prostate Cancer and Leukemias) Disability...

76 FR 61149 - Agency Information Collection (Disability Benefits Questionnaires-Group 4) Activity Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-10-03

...-Related Illness, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, or Tuberculosis) Disability Benefits Questionnaire, VA Form 21...) Disability Benefits Questionnaire, VA Form 21- 0960-J-4. Respiratory Conditions (other than Tuberculosis and...

77 FR 24268 - Agency Information Collection (Dependents' Application for VA Educational Benefits) Activity...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-23

.../11 GI Bill Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship (Fry Scholarship) benefits. VA will use the information collected to determine whether a claimant qualifies for DEA or Fry Scholarship...

38 CFR 61.82 - Participant fees for supportive housing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... extracurricular services and activities (extracurricular fee) that participants are not required to receive under the terms of the grant award, are not paid for by VA per diem, or provided by VA. Extracurricular fees...

38 CFR 61.82 - Participant fees for supportive housing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... extracurricular services and activities (extracurricular fee) that participants are not required to receive under the terms of the grant award, are not paid for by VA per diem, or provided by VA. Extracurricular fees...

Submacular hemorrhage in neovascular age-related macular degeneration: A synthesis of the literature.

PubMed

Stanescu-Segall, Dinu; Balta, Florian; Jackson, Timothy L

2016-01-01

Large submacular hemorrhage, an uncommon manifestation of neovascular age-related macular degeneration, may also occur with idiopathic polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy. Submacular hemorrhage damages photoreceptors owing to iron toxicity, fibrin meshwork contraction, and reduced nutrient flux, with subsequent macular scarring. Clinical and experimental studies support prompt treatment, as tissue damage can occur within 24 hours. Without treatment the natural history is poor, with a mean final visual acuity (VA) of 20/1600. Reported treatments include retinal pigment epithelial patch, macular translocation, pneumatic displacement, intravitreal or subretinal tissue plasminogen activator, intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) drugs, and combinations thereof. In the absence of comparative studies, we combined eligible studies to assess the VA change before and after each treatment option. The greatest improvement occurred after combined pars plana vitrectomy, subretinal tissue plasminogen activator, intravitreal gas, and anti-vascular endothelial growth factor treatment, with VA improving from 20/1000 to 20/400. The best final VA occurred using combined intravitreal tissue plasminogen activator, gas, and anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy, with VA improving from 20/200 to 20/100. Both treatments had an acceptable safety profile, but most studies were small, and larger randomized controlled trials are needed to determine both safety and efficacy. Crown Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Highly Efficient Organic Photovoltaic Cells from Polymer-Aligned Carbon Nanotube Dispersed Heterojunctions

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-09-01

semiconducting VA-SWNTs, and muiltcomponent micropatterns of VA- CNTs . We also designed and synthesized several classes of novel low bandgap...photovoltaic active polymers, and polymer-/TiO2–coated VA- CNTs , critical to developing high efficient polymer photovoltaic cells and dye-sensitized solar...an efficient solar absorption and charge separation/collection. Besides, novel N-doped CNT fuel cells, polymer/quantum dot light-emitting diodes, and

Altered Function of Ventrolateral Prefrontal Cortex in Adolescents with Peer Verbal Abuse History

PubMed Central

Lee, Sang Won; Choi, Jeewook; Lee, Jong-Sun; Yoo, Jae Hyun; Kim, Ko Woon; Kim, Dongchan; Park, HyunWook

2017-01-01

Objective Previous studies showing the association of exposure to peer (PeVA) and parental verbal abuse in childhood with structural alterations in the young adult brain suggest functional changes in adolescence. In this functional MRI study, we investigated the effects of exposure to PeVA, during elementary and middle school periods, on brain response to emotional words, in high school students. Methods An emotional Stroop task consisting of swear, negative, positive, and neutral words was performed during functional MRI scan for 23 subjects who were divided into low- and high exposure groups to PeVA. Results High-PeVA group had a higher depression score, greater left ventrolateral prefrontal cortex (VLPFC) activity, and higher left VLPFC-left hippocampus connectivity in swear word conditions. The VLPFC activity and left VLPFC-left hippocampus connectivity was negatively related to the severity of anxiety and depressive symptoms, respectively. Conclusion These preliminary findings support the hypothesis that exposure to PeVA, during childhood, is an aversive stimulus associated with meaningful functional change in emotional regulation network, showing hypersensitivity to swear words, at middle adolescence. PMID:28845171

Altered Function of Ventrolateral Prefrontal Cortex in Adolescents with Peer Verbal Abuse History.

PubMed

Lee, Sang Won; Choi, Jeewook; Lee, Jong-Sun; Yoo, Jae Hyun; Kim, Ko Woon; Kim, Dongchan; Park, HyunWook; Jeong, Bumseok

2017-07-01

Previous studies showing the association of exposure to peer (PeVA) and parental verbal abuse in childhood with structural alterations in the young adult brain suggest functional changes in adolescence. In this functional MRI study, we investigated the effects of exposure to PeVA, during elementary and middle school periods, on brain response to emotional words, in high school students. An emotional Stroop task consisting of swear, negative, positive, and neutral words was performed during functional MRI scan for 23 subjects who were divided into low- and high exposure groups to PeVA. High-PeVA group had a higher depression score, greater left ventrolateral prefrontal cortex (VLPFC) activity, and higher left VLPFC-left hippocampus connectivity in swear word conditions. The VLPFC activity and left VLPFC-left hippocampus connectivity was negatively related to the severity of anxiety and depressive symptoms, respectively. These preliminary findings support the hypothesis that exposure to PeVA, during childhood, is an aversive stimulus associated with meaningful functional change in emotional regulation network, showing hypersensitivity to swear words, at middle adolescence.

Weaker Seniors Exhibit Motor Cortex Hypoexcitability and Impairments in Voluntary Activation

PubMed Central

Taylor, Janet L.; Hong, S. Lee; Law, Timothy D.; Russ, David W.

2015-01-01

Background. Weakness predisposes seniors to a fourfold increase in functional limitations. The potential for age-related degradation in nervous system function to contribute to weakness and physical disability has garnered much interest of late. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that weaker seniors have impairments in voluntary (neural) activation and increased indices of GABAergic inhibition of the motor cortex, assessed using transcranial magnetic stimulation. Methods. Young adults (N = 46; 21.2±0.5 years) and seniors (N = 42; 70.7±0.9 years) had their wrist flexion strength quantified along with voluntary activation capacity (by comparing voluntary and electrically evoked forces). Single-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation was used to measure motor-evoked potential amplitude and silent period duration during isometric contractions at 15% and 30% of maximum strength. Paired-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation was used to measure intracortical facilitation and short-interval and long-interval intracortical inhibition. The primary analysis compared seniors to young adults. The secondary analysis compared stronger seniors (top two tertiles) to weaker seniors (bottom tertile) based on strength relative to body weight. Results. The most novel findings were that weaker seniors exhibited: (i) a 20% deficit in voluntary activation; (ii) ~20% smaller motor-evoked potentials during the 30% contraction task; and (iii) nearly twofold higher levels of long-interval intracortical inhibition under resting conditions. Conclusions. These findings indicate that weaker seniors exhibit significant impairments in voluntary activation, and that this impairment may be mechanistically associated with increased GABAergic inhibition of the motor cortex. PMID:25834195

75 FR 47712 - TRICARE; Elimination of Voluntary Disenrollment Lock-Out

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-08-09

...-Active Duty members who disenroll from TRICARE Prime before their annual enrollment renewal date. DATES.... This automatically triggers a one year lock-out. This final rule eliminates the lock-out for active...) Voluntary disenrollment. Any non-active duty beneficiary may disenroll at any time. Disenrollment will take...

16 CFR 1031.4 - Effect of voluntary standards activities on Commission activities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... Commission activities. 1031.4 Section 1031.4 Commercial Practices CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION GENERAL... effectiveness in eliminating or reducing the risks of injury. The evaluation of voluntary standards will be... Coordinator. The staff evaluation will be conducted in a manner similar to evaluations of standards being...

Being First Matters: Topographical Representational Similarity Analysis of ERP Signals Reveals Separate Networks for Audiovisual Temporal Binding Depending on the Leading Sense.

PubMed

Cecere, Roberto; Gross, Joachim; Willis, Ashleigh; Thut, Gregor

2017-05-24

In multisensory integration, processing in one sensory modality is enhanced by complementary information from other modalities. Intersensory timing is crucial in this process because only inputs reaching the brain within a restricted temporal window are perceptually bound. Previous research in the audiovisual field has investigated various features of the temporal binding window, revealing asymmetries in its size and plasticity depending on the leading input: auditory-visual (AV) or visual-auditory (VA). Here, we tested whether separate neuronal mechanisms underlie this AV-VA dichotomy in humans. We recorded high-density EEG while participants performed an audiovisual simultaneity judgment task including various AV-VA asynchronies and unisensory control conditions (visual-only, auditory-only) and tested whether AV and VA processing generate different patterns of brain activity. After isolating the multisensory components of AV-VA event-related potentials (ERPs) from the sum of their unisensory constituents, we ran a time-resolved topographical representational similarity analysis (tRSA) comparing the AV and VA ERP maps. Spatial cross-correlation matrices were built from real data to index the similarity between the AV and VA maps at each time point (500 ms window after stimulus) and then correlated with two alternative similarity model matrices: AV maps = VA maps versus AV maps ≠ VA maps The tRSA results favored the AV maps ≠ VA maps model across all time points, suggesting that audiovisual temporal binding (indexed by synchrony perception) engages different neural pathways depending on the leading sense. The existence of such dual route supports recent theoretical accounts proposing that multiple binding mechanisms are implemented in the brain to accommodate different information parsing strategies in auditory and visual sensory systems. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Intersensory timing is a crucial aspect of multisensory integration, determining whether and how inputs in one modality enhance stimulus processing in another modality. Our research demonstrates that evaluating synchrony of auditory-leading (AV) versus visual-leading (VA) audiovisual stimulus pairs is characterized by two distinct patterns of brain activity. This suggests that audiovisual integration is not a unitary process and that different binding mechanisms are recruited in the brain based on the leading sense. These mechanisms may be relevant for supporting different classes of multisensory operations, for example, auditory enhancement of visual attention (AV) and visual enhancement of auditory speech (VA). Copyright © 2017 Cecere et al.

77 FR 15189 - Agency Information Collection Activities Under OMB Review: Survey of Veteran Enrollees' Health...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-03-14

... on population-based budget formulation, policy scenario testing, and strategic planning. An agency... Eligibility Reform Act of 1996, requires VA to implement a priority-based enrollment system. VA must enroll...

76 FR 45008 - Proposed Information Collection (Disability Benefits Questionnaires-Group 4) Activity: Comment...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-07-27

... Tuberculosis Disability Benefits Questionnaire, VA Form 21-0960-I-3. k. Systemic Lupus Erytematous (SLE) and... Conditions (other than Tuberculosis and Sleep Apnea) Disability Benefits Questionnaire, VA Form 21-0960-L-1...

75 FR 33712 - Withdrawal of the Emission-Comparable Fuel Exclusion Under RCRA

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-06-15

...) directs EPA to use voluntary consensus standards in its regulatory activities unless to do so would be inconsistent with applicable law or otherwise impractical. Voluntary consensus standards are technical... are developed or adopted by voluntary consensus standards bodies. NTTAA directs EPA to provide...

12 CFR 28.22 - Voluntary liquidation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 1 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Voluntary liquidation. 28.22 Section 28.22 Banks and Banking COMPTROLLER OF THE CURRENCY, DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY INTERNATIONAL BANKING ACTIVITIES Federal Branches and Agencies of Foreign Banks § 28.22 Voluntary liquidation. (a) Procedures to...

77 FR 64386 - Agency Information Collection Activities (Per Diem for Nursing Home Care of Veterans in State...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-10-19

... Activities (Per Diem for Nursing Home Care of Veterans in State Homes; Per Diem for Adult Day Care of.... Abstract: VA pays per diem to State homes providing nursing home and adult day health services care to Veterans. VA requires facilities providing nursing home and adult day health care to furnish an application...

A cardiorespiratory classifier of voluntary and involuntary electrodermal activity

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background Electrodermal reactions (EDRs) can be attributed to many origins, including spontaneous fluctuations of electrodermal activity (EDA) and stimuli such as deep inspirations, voluntary mental activity and startling events. In fields that use EDA as a measure of psychophysiological state, the fact that EDRs may be elicited from many different stimuli is often ignored. This study attempts to classify observed EDRs as voluntary (i.e., generated from intentional respiratory or mental activity) or involuntary (i.e., generated from startling events or spontaneous electrodermal fluctuations). Methods Eight able-bodied participants were subjected to conditions that would cause a change in EDA: music imagery, startling noises, and deep inspirations. A user-centered cardiorespiratory classifier consisting of 1) an EDR detector, 2) a respiratory filter and 3) a cardiorespiratory filter was developed to automatically detect a participant's EDRs and to classify the origin of their stimulation as voluntary or involuntary. Results Detected EDRs were classified with a positive predictive value of 78%, a negative predictive value of 81% and an overall accuracy of 78%. Without the classifier, EDRs could only be correctly attributed as voluntary or involuntary with an accuracy of 50%. Conclusions The proposed classifier may enable investigators to form more accurate interpretations of electrodermal activity as a measure of an individual's psychophysiological state. PMID:20184746

The effect of Scutellaria baicalensis stem-leaf flavonoids on spatial learning and memory in chronic cerebral ischemia-induced vascular dementia of rats.

PubMed

Cao, Yanjing; Liang, Lizhen; Xu, Jian; Wu, Jiali; Yan, Yongxing; Lin, Ping; Chen, Qiang; Zheng, Fengming; Wang, Qin; Ren, Qian; Gou, Zengmei; Du, Yifeng

2016-05-01

Flavonoids have been shown to improve cognitive function and delay the dementia progression. However, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. In the present study, we examined the effect of Scutellaria baicalensis stem-leaf total flavonoids (SSTFs) extracted from S. baicalensis Georgi on spatial learning and memory in a vascular dementia (VaD) rat model and explored its molecular mechanisms. The VaD rats were developed by permanent bilateral occlusion of the common carotid artery. Seven days after recovery, the VaD rats were treated with either 50 or 100 mg/kg of SSTF for 60 days. The spatial learning and memory was evaluated in the Morris water maze (MWM) test. The tau hyperphosphorylation and the levels of the related protein kinases or phosphatases were examined by western blot analysis. In VaD rats, SSTF treatment at 100 mg/kg significantly reduced the escape latency in training trial in MWM test. In the probe trial, SSTF treatment increased the searching time and travel distance in the target quadrant. SSTF treatment inhibited the tau phosphorylation in both cortex and hippocampus in VaD rats. Meanwhile, SSTF reduced the activity of glycogen synthase kinase 3β and cyclin-dependent kinase 5 in VaD rats. In contrast, SSTF treatment increased the level of the protein phosphatase 2A subunit B in VaD rats. SSTF treatment significantly improved the spatial cognition in VaD rats. Our results suggest that SSTF may alleviate tau-hyperphosphorylation-induced neurotoxicity through coordinating the activity of kinases and phosphatase after a stroke. SSTF may be developed into promising novel therapeutics for VaD. © The Author 2016. Published by ABBS Editorial Office in association with Oxford University Press on behalf of the Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences.

Veterans’ Preferences for Exchanging Information Using Veterans Affairs Health Information Technologies: Focus Group Results and Modeling Simulations

PubMed Central

Chavez, Margeaux; Nazi, Kim; Antinori, Nicole; Melillo, Christine; Cotner, Bridget A; Hathaway, Wendy; Cook, Ashley; Wilck, Nancy; Noonan, Abigail

2017-01-01

Background The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has multiple health information technology (HIT) resources for veterans to support their health care management. These include a patient portal, VetLink Kiosks, mobile apps, and telehealth services. The veteran patient population has a variety of needs and preferences that can inform current VA HIT redesign efforts to meet consumer needs. Objective This study aimed to describe veterans’ experiences using the current VA HIT and identify their vision for the future of an integrated VA HIT system. Methods Two rounds of focus group interviews were conducted with a single cohort of 47 veterans and one female caregiver recruited from Bedford, Massachusetts, and Tampa, Florida. Focus group interviews included simulation modeling activities and a self-administered survey. This study also used an expert panel group to provide data and input throughout the study process. High-fidelity, interactive simulations were created and used to facilitate collection of qualitative data. The simulations were developed based on system requirements, data collected through operational efforts, and participants' reported preferences for using VA HIT. Pairwise comparison activities of HIT resources were conducted with both focus groups and the expert panel. Rapid iterative content analysis was used to analyze qualitative data. Descriptive statistics summarized quantitative data. Results Data themes included (1) current use of VA HIT, (2) non-VA HIT use, and (3) preferences for future use of VA HIT. Data indicated that, although the Secure Messaging feature was often preferred, a full range of HIT options are needed. These data were then used to develop veteran-driven simulations that illustrate user needs and expectations when using a HIT system and services to access VA health care services. Conclusions Patient participant redesign processes present critical opportunities for creating a human-centered design. Veterans value virtual health care options and prefer standardized, integrated, and synchronized user-friendly interface designs. PMID:29061553

Behavioral Effects of Enrichment and Nicotine in Male Sprague Dawley Rats

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-10-01

activity, increased habituation to a novel environment, decreased voluntary exercise. Rats in the physically-enriched group had increased voluntary ... voluntary exercise. Environmental enrichment prolonged nicotine’s effects through nicotine cessation. Enrichment’s effects on body weight could not...68 Euthanasia ................................................................................................... 68 DATA ANALYTIC STRATEGY FOR

38 CFR 14.627 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... functioning representative of another organization. (k) Facilities means equipment and furnishings that... claimants: (a) Accreditation means the authority granted by VA to representatives, agents, and attorneys to... of original jurisdiction means the VA activity or administration that made the initial determination...

Comparing Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infection Prevention Programs Between Veterans Affairs Nursing Homes and Non-Veterans Affairs Nursing Homes.

PubMed

Mody, Lona; Greene, M Todd; Saint, Sanjay; Meddings, Jennifer; Trautner, Barbara W; Wald, Heidi L; Crnich, Christopher; Banaszak-Holl, Jane; McNamara, Sara E; King, Beth J; Hogikyan, Robert; Edson, Barbara S; Krein, Sarah L

2017-03-01

OBJECTIVE The impact of healthcare system integration on infection prevention programs is unknown. Using catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) prevention as an example, we hypothesize that US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) nursing homes have a more robust infection prevention infrastructure due to integration and centralization compared with non-VA nursing homes. SETTING VA and non-VA nursing homes participating in the AHRQ Safety Program for Long-Term Care collaborative. METHODS Nursing homes provided baseline information about their infection prevention programs to assess strengths and gaps related to CAUTI prevention via a needs assessment questionnaire. RESULTS A total of 353 of 494 nursing homes from 41 states (71%; 47 VA and 306 non-VA facilities) responded. VA nursing homes reported more hours per week devoted to infection prevention-related activities (31 vs 12 hours; P<.001) and were more likely to have committees that reviewed healthcare-associated infections. Compared with non-VA facilities, a higher percentage of VA nursing homes reported tracking CAUTI rates (94% vs 66%; P<.001), sharing CAUTI data with leadership (94% vs 70%; P=.014) and with nursing personnel (85% vs 56%, P=.003). However, fewer VA nursing homes reported having policies for appropriate catheter use (64% vs 81%; P=.004) and catheter insertion (83% vs 94%; P=.004). CONCLUSIONS Among nursing homes participating in an AHRQ-funded collaborative, VA and non-VA nursing homes differed in their approach to CAUTI prevention. Best practices from both settings should be applied universally to create an optimal infection prevention program within emerging integrated healthcare systems. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2017;38:287-293.

Modification of Male Courtship Motivation by Olfactory Habituation via the GABAA Receptor in Drosophila melanogaster

PubMed Central

Tachibana, Shin-Ichiro; Touhara, Kazushige; Ejima, Aki

2015-01-01

A male-specific component, 11-cis-vaccenyl acetate (cVA) works as an anti-aphrodisiac pheromone in Drosophila melanogaster. The presence of cVA on a male suppresses the courtship motivation of other males and contributes to suppression of male-male homosexual courtship, while the absence of cVA on a female stimulates the sexual motivation of nearby males and enhances the male-female interaction. However, little is known how a male distinguishes the presence or absence of cVA on a target fly from either self-produced cVA or secondhand cVA from other males in the vicinity. In this study, we demonstrate that male flies have keen sensitivity to cVA; therefore, the presence of another male in the area reduces courtship toward a female. This reduced level of sexual motivation, however, could be overcome by pretest odor exposure via olfactory habituation to cVA. Real-time imaging of cVA-responsive sensory neurons using the neural activity sensor revealed that prolonged exposure to cVA decreased the levels of cVA responses in the primary olfactory center. Pharmacological and genetic screening revealed that signal transduction via GABAA receptors contributed to this olfactory habituation. We also found that the habituation experience increased the copulation success of wild-type males in a group. In contrast, transgenic males, in which GABA input in a small subset of local neurons was blocked by RNAi, failed to acquire the sexual advantage conferred by habituation. Thus, we illustrate a novel phenomenon in which olfactory habituation positively affects sexual capability in a competitive environment. PMID:26252206

Simulations based on representative 24-h recall data predict region-specific differences in adequacy of vitamin A intake among Cameroonian women and young children following large-scale fortification of vegetable oil and other potential food vehicles.

PubMed

Engle-Stone, Reina; Nankap, Martin; Ndjebayi, Alex O; Brown, Kenneth H

2014-11-01

The WHO recommends assessing food and nutrient intakes to design food-fortification programs, but nationally representative dietary data are seldom available in low-income countries. Prior to initiation of food fortification in Cameroon, we measured intake of vitamin A (VA) and fortifiable foods (vegetable oil, sugar, wheat flour, and bouillon cube) to simulate the effects of fortification with different foods and VA amounts on prevalence of inadequate and excessive VA intake. Twenty-four-hour recalls were conducted among 912 women and 883 children (with duplicates in a subset) in a nationally representative cluster survey stratified by region (North, South, Yaoundé/Douala). Usual intake distributions were estimated by the National Cancer Institute method. Nationally, 53% of women had a usual intake of <500 μg retinol activity equivalents/d, and 59% of nonbreastfeeding children had an intake of <210 μg retinol activity equivalents/d, although VA intake varied by region. The current fortification program (12 mg/kg VA in oil) would decrease the prevalence of inadequate intakes to 35% among both women and children, without increasing the proportion with retinol intakes >3000 μg/d among women or >600 μg/d among children. However, inadequate VA intake would remain >50% in the North, where VA deficiency was most common. Increasing VA in oil or fortifying a second food (sugar, wheat flour, or bouillon cube) would further decrease the prevalence of inadequate intakes, but, depending on the food vehicle and region, would also increase the prevalence of retinol intakes above the tolerable upper intake level, mainly among children. The current food-fortification program can be expected to improve dietary VA adequacy without increasing the risk of excessive intake among women and children in Cameroon. Modifications to the program must balance the potential to further increase VA intake with the risk of excessive intake among children. © 2014 American Society for Nutrition.

77 FR 60746 - Proposed Information Collection (VA/DOD Joint Disability Evaluation Board Claim) Activity...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-10-04

... War on Terror Heroes, VA and the Department of Defense (DOD) have agreed to develop a joint process in which Global War on Terror (GWOT) service members are evaluated to assign disability ratings, which will...

77 FR 74279 - Agency Information Collection (VA/DOD Joint Disability Evaluation Board Claim): Activity under...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-12-13

... Global War on Terror Heroes, VA and the Department of Defense (DOD) have agreed to develop a joint process in which Global War on Terror (GWOT) service member's are evaluated to assign disability ratings...

75 FR 77957 - Agency Information Collection (Declaration of Status of Dependents) Activity Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-12-14

... the collection of information through http://www.Regulations.gov or to VA's OMB Desk Officer, OMB... and existence of any dependent child(ren). The information is used by VA to determine eligibility and...

The neuromuscular fatigue induced by repeated scrums generates instability that can be limited by appropriate recovery.

PubMed

Morel, B; Hautier, C A

2017-02-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of the fatigue on the machine scrum pushing sagittal forces during repeated scrums and to determine the origin of the knee extensor fatigue. Twelve elite U23 rugby union front row players performed six 6-s scrums every 30 s against a dynamic scrum machine with passive or active recovery. The peak, average, and the standard deviation of the force were measured. A neuromuscular testing procedure of the knee extensors was carried out before and immediately after the repeated scrum protocol including maximal voluntary force, evoked force, and voluntary activation. The average and peak forces did not decrease after six scrums with passive recovery. The standard deviation of the force increased by 70.2 ± 42.7% (P < 0.001). Maximal voluntary/evoked force and voluntary activation decreased (respectively 25.1 ± 7.0%, 14.6 ± 5.5%, and 24 ± 9.9%; P < 0.001). The standard deviation of the force did not increase with active recovery and was associated with lower decrease of maximal voluntary/evoked force and voluntary activation (respectively 12.8 ± 7.9%, 4.9 ± 6.5%, and 7.6 ± 4.1%; all P < 0.01). As a conclusion repeated scrummaging induced an increased machine scrum pushing instability associated with central and peripheral fatigue of the knee extensors. Active recovery seems to limit all these manifestations of fatigue. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

β2 adrenergic receptor activation governs cardiac repolarization and arrhythmogenesis in a guinea pig model of heart failure.

PubMed

Wang, Yao; Yuan, Jiamin; Qian, Zhiyong; Zhang, Xiwen; Chen, Yanhong; Hou, Xiaofeng; Zou, Jiangang

2015-01-08

β2-AR activation increases the risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) in heart failure (HF) patients. Non-selective β-AR blockers have greater benefits on survival than selective β1-AR blockers in chronic HF patients, indicating that β2-AR activation contributes to SCD in HF. This study investigated the role of β2-AR activation on repolarization and ventricular arrhythmia (VA) in the experimental HF model. The guinea pig HF was induced by descending aortic banding. The effective refractoriness period (ERP), corrected QT (QTc) and the incidence of VA were examined using Langendorff and programmed electrical stimulation. Ikr and APD were recorded by the whole cell patch clamp. Selective β2-AR agonist salbutamol significantly increased the incidence of VA, prolonged QTc and shortened ERP. These effects could be prevented by the selective β2-AR antagonist, ICI118551. Salbutamol prolonged APD90 and reduced Ikr in guinea pig HF myocytes. The antagonists of cAMP (Rp-cAMP) and PKA (KT5720) attenuated Ikr inhibition and APD prolongation induced by salbutamol. However, the antagonists of Gi protein (PTX) and PDE III (amrinone) showed opposite effects. This study indicates that β2-AR activation increases the incidence of VA in the experimental HF model via activation of Gs/cAMP/PKA and/or inhibition of Gi/PDE pathways.

β2 adrenergic receptor activation governs cardiac repolarization and arrhythmogenesis in a guinea pig model of heart failure

PubMed Central

Wang, Yao; Yuan, Jiamin; Qian, Zhiyong; Zhang, Xiwen; Chen, Yanhong; Hou, Xiaofeng; Zou, Jiangang

2015-01-01

β2-AR activation increases the risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) in heart failure (HF) patients. Non-selective β-AR blockers have greater benefits on survival than selective β1-AR blockers in chronic HF patients, indicating that β2-AR activation contributes to SCD in HF. This study investigated the role of β2-AR activation on repolarization and ventricular arrhythmia (VA) in the experimental HF model. The guinea pig HF was induced by descending aortic banding. The effective refractoriness period (ERP), corrected QT (QTc) and the incidence of VA were examined using Langendorff and programmed electrical stimulation. Ikr and APD were recorded by the whole cell patch clamp. Selective β2-AR agonist salbutamol significantly increased the incidence of VA, prolonged QTc and shortened ERP. These effects could be prevented by the selective β2-AR antagonist, ICI118551. Salbutamol prolonged APD90 and reduced Ikr in guinea pig HF myocytes. The antagonists of cAMP (Rp-cAMP) and PKA (KT5720) attenuated Ikr inhibition and APD prolongation induced by salbutamol. However, the antagonists of Gi protein (PTX) and PDE III (amrinone) showed opposite effects. This study indicates that β2-AR activation increases the incidence of VA in the experimental HF model via activation of Gs/cAMP/PKA and/or inhibition of Gi/PDE pathways. PMID:25567365

Comparative proteomic analysis of two wasps venom, Vespa tropica and Vespa affinis.

PubMed

Rungsa, Prapenpuksiri; Incamnoi, Paroonkorn; Sukprasert, Sophida; Uawonggul, Nunthawun; Klaynongsruang, Sompong; Daduang, Jureerut; Patramanon, Rina; Roytrakul, Sittiruk; Daduang, Sakda

2016-09-01

Vespid venom is composed of many bioactive compounds. The venom of the banded tiger wasp (Vespa affinis, or VA) and the great banded wasp (Vespa tropica, or VT)-which are locally found in the northeastern part of Thailand and are well known for their life-threatening venom potency-were comparatively studied in terms of potency, composition and biological activity. Clinical studies that included word-of-mouth information shared by traditional healers in local areas noted that the venom of VT is more potent than that of VA. Our previous study showed that the venom of VA is lower in potency (PD50 = 12.5 μg/g body weight) than that of VT (PD50 = 3 μg/g body weight). Analysis with the PAGE technique showed that these two venoms showed similar patterns of active proteins. Most protein spots were basic proteins at an isoelectric point (pI) ranging from 5 to 10, with molecular weights between 27 and 50 kDa. These spots were identified as hyaluronidase, phospholipase, antigen 5, dipeptidyl peptidase and albumin-like protein. The proportion of hyaluronidase was 2.5 times higher in VT than in VA. VT also showed higher hyaluronidase, phospholipase and dipeptidyl peptidase activities, suggesting that these components made VT venom more potent than VA venom. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Technique for Improving Active Network Performance in a Radiation Environment Without the Use of Hardened Devices.

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-03-01

FILTER--------------------------------- 76 F. ANNEALING --------------------------------------- 80 V. RESULTS...85 C. BANDPASS FILTERS------------------------------- 101 D. CURRENT ANNEALING ------------------------------ 106 4 " m ix , ’* * .S...VaA 2 (l + A1 )(1 + a) - VbA1A2 (1 + a))/(A I + (I+a)) (3) for C20A-2: Vo2 = (Va - Vb)(AIA 2 (I + a))/(A 2 +(l+a)) (4) for C20A-3: V 3 = (VaAIA2

Enhancing Cross-Cultural Collaboration between DoD and VA

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-04-27

James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center ( FHCC ). The NDAA 2010 authorized the DoD and VA to establish a five-year demonstration project...integrating the North Chicago VA Medical Center and the Naval Health Clinic Great Lakes.50 The FHCC is named in 15 honor of retired U.S. Naval officer...and Illinois resident, Captain James A. Lovell , who was an astronaut on Apollo 13. The joint facility serves the medical needs of active duty service

Modelling the maximum voluntary joint torque/angular velocity relationship in human movement.

PubMed

Yeadon, Maurice R; King, Mark A; Wilson, Cassie

2006-01-01

The force exerted by a muscle is a function of the activation level and the maximum (tetanic) muscle force. In "maximum" voluntary knee extensions muscle activation is lower for eccentric muscle velocities than for concentric velocities. The aim of this study was to model this "differential activation" in order to calculate the maximum voluntary knee extensor torque as a function of knee angular velocity. Torque data were collected on two subjects during maximal eccentric-concentric knee extensions using an isovelocity dynamometer with crank angular velocities ranging from 50 to 450 degrees s(-1). The theoretical tetanic torque/angular velocity relationship was modelled using a four parameter function comprising two rectangular hyperbolas while the activation/angular velocity relationship was modelled using a three parameter function that rose from submaximal activation for eccentric velocities to full activation for high concentric velocities. The product of these two functions gave a seven parameter function which was fitted to the joint torque/angular velocity data, giving unbiased root mean square differences of 1.9% and 3.3% of the maximum torques achieved. Differential activation accounts for the non-hyperbolic behaviour of the torque/angular velocity data for low concentric velocities. The maximum voluntary knee extensor torque that can be exerted may be modelled accurately as the product of functions defining the maximum torque and the maximum voluntary activation level. Failure to include differential activation considerations when modelling maximal movements will lead to errors in the estimation of joint torque in the eccentric phase and low velocity concentric phase.

Regular voluntary exercise cures stress-induced impairment of cognitive function and cell proliferation accompanied by increases in cerebral IGF-1 and GST activity in mice.

PubMed

Nakajima, Sanae; Ohsawa, Ikuroh; Ohta, Shigeo; Ohno, Makoto; Mikami, Toshio

2010-08-25

Chronic stress impairs cognitive function and hippocampal neurogenesis. This impairment is attributed to increases in oxidative stress, which result in the accumulation of lipid peroxide. On the other hand, voluntary exercise enhances cognitive function, hippocampal neurogenesis, and antioxidant capacity in normal animals. However, the effects of voluntary exercise on cognitive function, neurogenesis, and antioxidants in stressed mice are unclear. This study was designed to investigate whether voluntary exercise cures stress-induced impairment of cognitive function accompanied by improvement of hippocampal neurogenesis and increases in antioxidant capacity. Stressed mice were exposed to chronic restraint stress (CRS), which consisted of 12h immobilization daily and feeding in a small cage, for 8 weeks. Exercised mice were allowed free access to a running wheel during their exposure to CRS. At the 6th week, cognitive function was examined using the Morris water maze (MWM) test. Daily voluntary exercise restored stress-induced impairment of cognitive function and the hippocampal cell proliferation of newborn cells but not cell survival. Voluntary exercise increased insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) protein and mRNA expression in the cerebral cortex and liver, respectively. In addition, CRS resulted in a significant increase in the number of 4-hydrosynonenal (4-HNE)-positive cells in the hippocampal dentate gyrus; whereas, voluntary exercise inhibited it and enhanced glutathione s-transferases (GST) activity in the brain. These findings suggest that voluntary exercise attenuated the stress-induced impairment of cognitive function accompanied by improvement of cell proliferation in the dentate gyrus. This exercise-induced improvement was attributed to exercise-induced enhancement of IGF-1 protein and GST activity in the brain. Copyright 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

77 FR 43366 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comments Requested: Voluntary...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-07-24

... DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives [OMB Number 1140-0092] Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comments Requested: Voluntary Magazine... Magazine Questionnaire for Agencies/Entities Who Store Explosives. (3) Agency form number, if any, and the...

Human dignity and the future of the voluntary active euthanasia debate in South Africa.

PubMed

Jordaan, Donrich W

2017-04-25

The issue of voluntary active euthanasia was thrust into the public policy arena by the Stransham-Ford lawsuit. The High Court legalised voluntary active euthanasia - however, ostensibly only in the specific case of Mr Stransham-Ford. The Supreme Court of Appeal overturned the High Court judgment on technical grounds, not on the merits. This means that in future the courts can be approached again to consider the legalisation of voluntary active euthanasia. As such, Stransham-Ford presents a learning opportunity for both sides of the legalisation divide. In particular, conceptual errors pertaining to human dignity were made in Stransham-Ford, and can be avoided in future. In this article, I identify these errors and propose the following three corrective principles to inform future debate on the subject: (i) human dignity is violable; (ii) human suffering violates human dignity; and (iii) the 'natural' causes of suffering due to terminal illness do not exclude the application of human dignity.

Voluntary Wheel Running in Mice.

PubMed

Goh, Jorming; Ladiges, Warren

2015-12-02

Voluntary wheel running in the mouse is used to assess physical performance and endurance and to model exercise training as a way to enhance health. Wheel running is a voluntary activity in contrast to other experimental exercise models in mice, which rely on aversive stimuli to force active movement. This protocol consists of allowing mice to run freely on the open surface of a slanted, plastic saucer-shaped wheel placed inside a standard mouse cage. Rotations are electronically transmitted to a USB hub so that frequency and rate of running can be captured via a software program for data storage and analysis for variable time periods. Mice are individually housed so that accurate recordings can be made for each animal. Factors such as mouse strain, gender, age, and individual motivation, which affect running activity, must be considered in the design of experiments using voluntary wheel running. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Voluntary Wheel Running in Mice

PubMed Central

Goh, Jorming; Ladiges, Warren

2015-01-01

Voluntary wheel running in the mouse is used to assess physical performance and endurance and to model exercise training as a way to enhance health. Wheel running is a voluntary activity in contrast to other experimental exercise models in mice, which rely on aversive stimuli to force active movement. The basic protocol consists of allowing mice to run freely on the open surface of a slanted plastic saucer-shaped wheel placed inside a standard mouse cage. Rotations are electronically transmitted to a USB hub so that frequency and rate of running can be captured to a software program for data storage and analysis for variable time periods. Mice are individually housed so that accurate recordings can be made for each animal. Factors such as mouse strain, gender, age, and individual motivation, which affect running activity, must be considered in the design of experiments using voluntary wheel running. PMID:26629772

Voluntary facial action generates emotion-specific autonomic nervous system activity.

PubMed

Levenson, R W; Ekman, P; Friesen, W V

1990-07-01

Four experiments were conducted to determine whether voluntarily produced emotional facial configurations are associated with differentiated patterns of autonomic activity, and if so, how this might be mediated. Subjects received muscle-by-muscle instructions and coaching to produce facial configurations for anger, disgust, fear, happiness, sadness, and surprise while heart rate, skin conductance, finger temperature, and somatic activity were monitored. Results indicated that voluntary facial activity produced significant levels of subjective experience of the associated emotion, and that autonomic distinctions among emotions: (a) were found both between negative and positive emotions and among negative emotions, (b) were consistent between group and individual subjects' data, (c) were found in both male and female subjects, (d) were found in both specialized (actors, scientists) and nonspecialized populations, (e) were stronger when the voluntary facial configurations most closely resembled actual emotional expressions, and (f) were stronger when experience of the associated emotion was reported. The capacity of voluntary facial activity to generate emotion-specific autonomic activity: (a) did not require subjects to see facial expressions (either in a mirror or on an experimenter's face), and (b) could not be explained by differences in the difficulty of making the expressions or by differences in concomitant somatic activity.

Prevalence of Dementia and Main Subtypes in Rural Northern China

PubMed Central

Ji, Yong; Shi, Zhihong; Zhang, Ying; Liu, Shuling; Liu, Shuai; Yue, Wei; Liu, Mengyuan; Huo, Ya Ruth; Wang, Jinhuan; Wisniewski, Thomas

2016-01-01

Background/Aims The aim of this article was to estimate the prevalence of and to determine the sociodemographic risk factors for dementia, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VaD) among individuals residing in rural northern China. Methods Between 2011 and 2012, residents aged ≥ 60 years and residing in rural areas of northern China were clinically assessed for symptoms of dementia, AD and VaD. Diagnoses were made using established criteria and standard procedures. Results Among 5,578 enrolled study participants aged ≥ 60 years, the prevalence rates of dementia, AD and VaD were 7.7, 5.4 and 1.7%, respectively. Older age (OR = 1.17; 95% CI: 1.14–1.19) and female gender (OR = 2.13; 95% CI: 1.51–3.00) were identified as independent risk factors for AD. In turn, a higher educational level (OR = 0.36; 95% CI: 0.21–0.60) and engagement in social activities (OR = 0.219; 95% CI: 0.163–0.295) were protective factors. Risk factors associated with VaD were older age (OR = 1.11; 95% CI: 1.1– 1.12) and hypertension (OR = 1.83; 95% CI: 1.18–2.86), while a higher educational level (OR = 0.53, 95% CI: 0.44–0.65) and engagement in social activities (OR = 0.34; 95% CI: 0.29–0.41) were protective factors. Conclusion High rates of dementia (7.7%) and AD (5.4%) were found in the rural areas of northern China. Older age and female gender were identified as risk factors for AD, while older age and hypertension were risk factors for VaD. A higher educational level and engagement in social activities were identified as protective factors against both AD and VaD. PMID:25792116

78 FR 57818 - Commission Participation and Commission Employee Involvement in Voluntary Standards Activities

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-09-20

... docket number for this rulemaking. All comments received may be posted without change, including any... found in in such locations as homes, schools, and recreational areas. Voluntary standards activity is an... handled primarily by three standards development/coordinating organizations: ASTM International...

Duty periods for establishing eligibility for health care. Final rule.

PubMed

2013-12-26

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is amending its medical regulations concerning eligibility for health care to re-establish the definitions of "active military, naval, or air service,'' "active duty,'' and "active duty for training.'' These definitions were deleted in 1996; however, we believe that all duty periods should be defined in part 17 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) to ensure proper determination of eligibility for VA health care. We are also providing a more complete definition of "inactive duty training.''

[Status of vitamin A, vitamin B2, iron and an-oxidantive activity in anemic pregnant women in China].

PubMed

Yang, Fang; Ma, Ai-Guo; Zhang, Xiu-Zhen; Jiang, Dian-Chen

2006-05-01

To investigate the status of vitamin A(VA), vitamin B2 (VB2), iron and anoxidative function in anemic and non-anemic pregnant women. 426 anemic and 36 non-anemic pregnant women were included in the study. The survey of 24-hour's diet recall of pregnant women was made to evaluate intake of iron, VB2, folic acid, etc by the nutrition software provided by Beijing 301 hospital, iron and VA were measured by Radioimmunoassay (RIA) and by high-pressure liquid chromatography. VB2 status was detected using the assay for erythrocyte glutathione reductase (Egr; EC 1.6.4.2) activity. SOD and GSH-Px activities and MDA were determined using commercial kits. Peripheral blood erythrocyte membrane fluidity was detected by using 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene as a probe, the degree of fluorescence polarization (P) at 25 degrees C of disrupted cells plasma membranes were compared for a variety of systems. Median intakes of protein and vitamin C met the current Chinese RNIs for pregnancy, whereas intakes of(VA) and VB2 were well below the recommendations. Intake of iron were above 90%, but the main sources of iron are vegetables. Plasma VA (1.25 micromol/L) and iron (20.57 microg/L) were lower, BGRAC (1.79) was higher than that in non-anemia group (VA 1.57 micromol/L, SF 33.16 microg/L, BGRAC 1.52). The level of plasma SOD (77.1U/ml) and the activity of GSH-Px (61.9U) were lower than those in non-anemia group (92.2U/ml, 71.6U, P < 0.05), while MDA (4.58 nmol/ml) level and erythrocyte membrane (P = 0.2622, eta = 2.7465) fluidity were higher than those non-anemia group(MDA = 3.78 nmol/ ml, P = 0.2360, eta = 2.3658). Plasam VA, VB2 and iron, antioxidantcapacity and erythrocyte membrane fluidity were decreased in the anemic pregnant women.

75 FR 68039 - Agency Information Collection (Application for Supplemental Service Disabled Veterans Insurance...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-11-04

... (Application for Supplemental Service Disabled Veterans Insurance) Activity Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans... INFORMATION: Title: Application for Supplemental Service Disabled Veterans Insurance, (SRH) Life Insurance, VA... applying for Supplemental Service Disabled Veterans Insurance. VA uses the information collected to...

38 CFR 17.500 - General.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... of Healthcare Quality Assurance Review Records § 17.500 General. (a) Section 5705, title 38, United... §§ 17.500 through 17.511, the VA's medical quality assurance program consists of systematic healthcare... utilization of healthcare resources in VA medical facilities. These review activities may involve continuous...

38 CFR 17.500 - General.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... of Healthcare Quality Assurance Review Records § 17.500 General. (a) Section 5705, title 38, United... §§ 17.500 through 17.511, the VA's medical quality assurance program consists of systematic healthcare... utilization of healthcare resources in VA medical facilities. These review activities may involve continuous...

38 CFR 17.500 - General.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... of Healthcare Quality Assurance Review Records § 17.500 General. (a) Section 5705, title 38, United... §§ 17.500 through 17.511, the VA's medical quality assurance program consists of systematic healthcare... utilization of healthcare resources in VA medical facilities. These review activities may involve continuous...

38 CFR 17.500 - General.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... of Healthcare Quality Assurance Review Records § 17.500 General. (a) Section 5705, title 38, United... §§ 17.500 through 17.511, the VA's medical quality assurance program consists of systematic healthcare... utilization of healthcare resources in VA medical facilities. These review activities may involve continuous...

38 CFR 17.500 - General.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... of Healthcare Quality Assurance Review Records § 17.500 General. (a) Section 5705, title 38, United... §§ 17.500 through 17.511, the VA's medical quality assurance program consists of systematic healthcare... utilization of healthcare resources in VA medical facilities. These review activities may involve continuous...

76 FR 33417 - Agency Information Collection (Disability Benefits Questionnaires-Group 2) Activity Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-06-08

.... Non-ischemic Heart Disease (including Arrhythmias and Surgery, Disability Benefits Questionnaire, VA.... Arteries and Veins Conditions (Vascular Diseases including Varicose Veins) Disability Benefits... g. Skin Diseases Disability Benefits Questionnaire, VA Form 21- 0960F-2. h. Amputations Disability...

Epidemiology and burden of influenza in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

PubMed

Lucero-Obusan, Cynthia; Schirmer, Patricia L; Wendelboe, Aaron; Oda, Gina; Holodniy, Mark

2018-03-01

We describe influenza activity in the US Veterans Affairs (VA) population for the 2010-2011 through 2015-2016 seasons and compare with national CDC FluView data. VA confirmed influenza cases ranged from 1005 to 11 506 per season; triage calls from 6090 to 10 346; outpatient visits from 3849 to 13 406; antiviral prescriptions from 3650 to 32 826; hospitalizations from 546 to 4673; and deaths in hospitalized patients from 17 to 139. Peak activity was generally the same as observed nationally by the CDC. For the seasons analyzed, correlation between VA and CDC %ILI visits (r = .863), influenza hospitalizations (r = .953), positive tests (r = .948), and percent of tests positive (r = .938) was strong. Understanding influenza burden is important for evaluating prevention priorities and resource allocation within VA. © 2017 The Authors. Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans: National Findings from VA Residential Treatment Programs

PubMed Central

Cook, Joan M.; Dinnen, Stephanie; O’Donnell, Casey; Bernardy, Nancy; Rosenheck, Robert; Desai, Rani

2013-01-01

A quality improvement effort was undertaken in Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) residential treatment programs for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) across the United States. Qualitative interviews were conducted with over 250 directors, providers, and staff during site visits of 38 programs. The aims of this report are to describe clinical issues and distinctive challenges in working with veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan and approaches to addressing their needs. Providers indicated that the most commonly reported problems were: acute PTSD symptomotology; other complex mental health symptom presentations; broad readjustment problems; and difficulty with time demands of and readiness for intensive treatment. Additional concerns included working with active duty personnel and mixing different eras in therapy. Programmatic solutions address structure (e.g., blended versus era-specific therapy), content (e.g., physical activity), and adaptations (e.g., inclusion of family; shortened length of stay). Clinical implications for VA managers and policy makers as well as non-VA health care systems and individual health care providers are noted. PMID:23458113

A national appraisal of haemodialysis vascular access provision in Scotland.

PubMed

Oliver, Scott W; Campbell, Jacqueline; Kingsmore, David B; Kasthuri, Ram; Metcalfe, Wendy; Traynor, Jamie P; Fischbacher-Smith, Denis; Jardine, Alan G; Thomson, Peter C

2017-03-21

Published registry data demonstrate longstanding variation in the utilisation of different vascular access (VA) modalities between Scottish renal units; this may reflect different clinical processes between centres. A comprehensive appraisal was undertaken to understand the processes underpinning VA creation and maintenance across Scotland. A mixed methods approach was utilised. Fifty-two semi-structured interviews were conducted with patients and clinicians in all ten, adult and paediatric, Scottish renal units. Interview transcripts were subjected to thematic analysis. Clinical activity data were prospectively collected for six weeks, and correlated with registry data. VA accounts for a large clinical workload. There was significant inter-centre variation in the utilisation of different VA modalities, and patients described frustrating, dissatisfying experiences. VA creation and maintenance pathways functioned best when nephrologists, surgeons and radiologists were co-located on the same campus with close multi-disciplinary working, protected clinical time, and proactive VA maintenance. No unit routinely measured or discussed procedure outcomes or strategic aspects of their service. Varied clinical outcomes reflected varied clinical processes. Optimised clinical pathways, staff education and measurement of clinical outcomes may improve VA service quality and facilitate safer, more effective, patient-centred care.

Mapping of electrical muscle stimulation using MRI

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Adams, Gregory R.; Harris, Robert T.; Woodard, Daniel; Dudley, Gary A.

1993-01-01

The pattern of muscle contractile activity elicited by electromyostimulation (EMS) was mapped and compared to the contractile-activity pattern produced by voluntary effort. This was done by examining the patterns and the extent of contrast shift, as indicated by T2 values, im magnetic resonance (MR) images after isometric activity of the left m. quadriceps of human subjects was elicited by EMS (1-sec train of 500-microsec sine wave pulses at 50 Hz) or voluntary effort. The results suggest that, whereas EMS stimulates the same fibers repeatedly, thereby increasing the metabolic demand and T2 values, the voluntary efforts are performed by more diffuse asynchronous activation of skeletal muscle even at forces up to 75 percent of maximal to maintain performance.

Voluntary Religious Activities in Public Schools: Policy Guidelines. Fastback 253.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Robbins, Jan C.

This booklet was written to help school officials understand the law concerning public forums and voluntary religious activities in public schools. Compliance dilemmas arising from the First Amendment establishment of religion clause and the accompanying free speech and free expression clauses, along with 14th Amendment equal protection…

31 CFR 103.110 - Voluntary information sharing among financial institutions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Information Sharing Procedures To Deter Money Laundering and Terrorist Activity § 103.110 Voluntary.... 5312(a)(2) that is required under this part to establish and maintain an anti-money laundering program... suspects may involve possible terrorist activity or money laundering. (2) Notice requirement. A financial...

Effects of acute voluntary loaded wheel running on BDNF expression in the rat hippocampus.

PubMed

Lee, Minchul; Soya, Hideaki

2017-12-31

Voluntary loaded wheel running involves the use of a load during a voluntary running activity. A muscle-strength or power-type activity performed at a relatively high intensity and a short duration may cause fewer apparent metabolic adaptations but may still elicit muscle fiber hypertrophy. This study aimed to determine the effects of acute voluntary wheel running with an additional load on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression in the rat hippocampus. Ten-week old male Wistar rats were assigned randomly to a (1) sedentary (Control) group; (2) voluntary exercise with no load (No-load) group; or (3) voluntary exercise with an additional load (Load) group for 1-week (acute period). The expression of BDNF genes was quantified by real-time PCR. The average distance levels were not significantly different in the No-load and Load groups. However, the average work levels significantly increased in the Load group. The relative soleus weights were greater in the No-load group. Furthermore, loaded wheel running up-regulated the BDNF mRNA level compared with that in the Control group. The BDNF mRNA levels showed a positive correlation with workload levels (r=0.75), suggesting that the availability of multiple workload levels contributes to the BDNF-related benefits of loaded wheel running noted in this study. This novel approach yielded the first set of findings showing that acute voluntary loaded wheel running, which causes muscular adaptation, enhanced BDNF expression, suggesting a possible role of high-intensity short-term exercise in hippocampal BDNF activity. ©2017 The Korean Society for Exercise Nutrition

Weaker Seniors Exhibit Motor Cortex Hypoexcitability and Impairments in Voluntary Activation.

PubMed

Clark, Brian C; Taylor, Janet L; Hong, S Lee; Law, Timothy D; Russ, David W

2015-09-01

Weakness predisposes seniors to a fourfold increase in functional limitations. The potential for age-related degradation in nervous system function to contribute to weakness and physical disability has garnered much interest of late. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that weaker seniors have impairments in voluntary (neural) activation and increased indices of GABAergic inhibition of the motor cortex, assessed using transcranial magnetic stimulation. Young adults (N = 46; 21.2±0.5 years) and seniors (N = 42; 70.7±0.9 years) had their wrist flexion strength quantified along with voluntary activation capacity (by comparing voluntary and electrically evoked forces). Single-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation was used to measure motor-evoked potential amplitude and silent period duration during isometric contractions at 15% and 30% of maximum strength. Paired-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation was used to measure intracortical facilitation and short-interval and long-interval intracortical inhibition. The primary analysis compared seniors to young adults. The secondary analysis compared stronger seniors (top two tertiles) to weaker seniors (bottom tertile) based on strength relative to body weight. The most novel findings were that weaker seniors exhibited: (i) a 20% deficit in voluntary activation; (ii) ~20% smaller motor-evoked potentials during the 30% contraction task; and (iii) nearly twofold higher levels of long-interval intracortical inhibition under resting conditions. These findings indicate that weaker seniors exhibit significant impairments in voluntary activation, and that this impairment may be mechanistically associated with increased GABAergic inhibition of the motor cortex. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Gerontological Society of America. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Effect of Intraperitoneal Radiotelemetry Instrumentation on Voluntary Wheel Running and Surgical Recovery in Mice

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-09-01

affects body weight, food intake, water intake, circadian core temperature, activity , voluntary running patterns, and the health of internal organs and...temperature and activity patterns within 1 d after surgery, whereas activity was depressed in mice with large)ransmitters throughout experimentation. The...CD1 mice implanted with transmitter devices (approximately 11% of body weight), blood pressure, heart rate, and activity showed telemetry-associated

MyRIP interaction with MyoVa on secretory granules is controlled by the cAMP-PKA pathway.

PubMed

Brozzi, Flora; Lajus, Sophie; Diraison, Frederique; Rajatileka, Shavanthi; Hayward, Katy; Regazzi, Romano; Molnár, Elek; Váradi, Anikó

2012-11-01

Myosin- and Rab-interacting protein (MyRIP), which belongs to the protein kinase A (PKA)-anchoring family, is implicated in hormone secretion. However, its mechanism of action is not fully elucidated. Here we investigate the role of MyRIP in myosin Va (MyoVa)-dependent secretory granule (SG) transport and secretion in pancreatic beta cells. These cells solely express the brain isoform of MyoVa (BR-MyoVa), which is a key motor protein in SG transport. In vitro pull-down, coimmunoprecipitation, and colocalization studies revealed that MyRIP does not interact with BR-MyoVa in glucose-stimulated pancreatic beta cells, suggesting that, contrary to previous notions, MyRIP does not link this motor protein to SGs. Glucose-stimulated insulin secretion is augmented by incretin hormones, which increase cAMP levels and leads to MyRIP phosphorylation, its interaction with BR-MyoVa, and phosphorylation of the BR-MyoVa receptor rabphilin-3A (Rph-3A). Rph-3A phosphorylation on Ser-234 was inhibited by small interfering RNA knockdown of MyRIP, which also reduced cAMP-mediated hormone secretion. Demonstrating the importance of this phosphorylation, nonphosphorylatable and phosphomimic Rph-3A mutants significantly altered hormone release when PKA was activated. These data suggest that MyRIP only forms a functional protein complex with BR-MyoVa on SGs when cAMP is elevated and under this condition facilitates phosphorylation of SG-associated proteins, which in turn can enhance secretion.

Biochemical and histological impact of Vernonia amygdalina supplemented diet in obese rats

PubMed Central

Atangwho, Item J.; Edet, Emmanuel E.; Uti, Daniel E.; Obi, Augustine U.; Asmawi, Mohd. Z.; Ahmad, Mariam

2012-01-01

This study was carried out to evaluate the anti-obesity effect of Vernonia amygdalina Del. (VA) supplemented diet. VA leaf powder was fed at 5% and 15% to diet-induced obese rats for 4 weeks and its effect compared with orlistat (5.14 mg/kg p.o.), an anti-obesity drug. Food intake, body and organ weights, total body fat, some lipid components and amino transaminase activities in serum, hepatocytes and brain; as well as serum glucose, were measured during or at end of the study. Result showed respective decrease of 12.78% and 38.51% in body weight gain, of VA fed rats against 17.45% of orlistat at end of study (P < 0.05); but with no effect on food intake. Total body fat was lowered by 28.04% and 30.02% vs. obese control rats (CDC) (P < 0.05). Furthermore, serum triacylglycerol (TG), serum and brain total cholesterol (TCHOL), were down regulated at 15% VA supplementation (P < 0.05). Serum glucose which increased in obese rats by 46.26% (P < 0.05) vs. NC, indicating intolerance, was restored by VA (38.75% and 34.65%) and orlistat (31.80%) vs. CDC (P < 0.05). VA diet also exerted hepato-protection, via lowering serum alanine amino transaminase (ALT) (41.35% and 27.13%) and aspartate amino transaminase (AST) (17.09% and 43.21%) activities (P < 0.05). Orlistat had no effect on these enzymes. Histology of adipose tissue corroborated the changes on total body fat. We concluded that, diet supplemented with VA can attenuate dietary obesity as well as ameliorates the potential risks of hepato-toxicity and glucose intolerance associated with obesity. PMID:23961200

Regulation of IL-8 promoter activity by verrucarin A in human monocytic THP-1 cells.

PubMed

Liu, Jun; Simmons, Steve O; Pei, Ruoting

2014-01-01

Macrocyclic trichothecenes have been frequently detected in fungi in water-damaged buildings and exhibited higher toxicity than the well-studied trichothecenes; however, the mechanism underlying their toxicity has been poorly understood. In this study, transcriptional regulation of the cytokine interleukin (IL)-8 by a macrocyclic trichothecene, verrucarin A (VA), in human monocytic THP-1 cells is reported. Consistent with previous findings, VA was 100-fold more cytotoxic than deoxynivalenol (DON), while ochratoxin A (OA) was not cytotoxic. In cells transduced with the wild-type IL-8 promoter luciferase construct, VA induced a biphasic dose response composed of an upregulation of luciferase expression at low concentrations of 0.01-1 ng/ml and a downregulation at high levels of 10 ng/ml and higher. In contrast, DON induced a sigmoid-shaped dose response with the EC50 of 11.6 ng/ml, while OA did not markedly affect the IL-8 expression. When cells were transduced with IL-8 promoter with a mutation of transcription factor nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB)-binding site, VA (1 ng/ml), DON (1000 ng/ml), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α (20 ng/ml)-induced luciferase expression were impaired. In addition, the NF-κB inhibitor caffeic acid phenethyl ester inhibited VA-, DON-, and TNFα-induced luciferase expression. Mutation of the CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein (CEBP) β binding site of the IL-8 promoter affected only DON-, but not VA- and TNFα-induced luciferase expression. Taken together, these results suggested that VA activated IL-8 promoter via an NF-κB-dependent, but not CEBPβ-dependent, pathway in human monocytes.

Characterization of the interaction between the heavy and light chains of bovine factor Va.

PubMed

Walker, F J

1992-10-05

Bovine factor Va has been previously been shown to consist of heavy (M(r) = 94,000) and light chains (M(r) = 81,000), that interact in a manner dependent upon the presence of either calcium or manganese ions. In an attempt to understand the mechanism of subunit interaction we have studied the effects of temperature and ions on factor Va stability. The rates of formation of factor Va from isolated chains and dissociation were temperature-dependent with an energy of activation of 6.2 and 1.3 kcal mol-1, respectively. The yield of factor Va from isolated chains was inversely related to the amount of time the chains were incubated at 4 degrees C. Incubation of individual chains revealed that the heavy chain is cold-labile, an effect that is reversible. Manganese ion was observed to prevent the conversion to the inactive form. High salt tends to stabilize the two-chain structure of factor Va, but is inhibitory to its formation from isolated chains. High concentrations of either manganese or calcium ions also inhibited reconstitution of activity. The light chain, in particular, was sensitive to the presence of manganese or calcium ion. Heavy chain that had been cleaved by activated protein C had a weakened interaction with the light chain, and the resulting complex had no procoagulant activity. Cooling of the heavy chain to 4 degrees C enhanced its intrinsic fluorescence. Manganese ion prevented some of this enhancement. The heavy chain fluorescence returned to the room temperature value with a half-life of approximately 10 min. In the presence of manganese ion relaxation was accelerated. The intrinsic fluorescence of activated protein C-cleaved heavy chain was not increased when the temperature was decreased. These data suggest that the heavy chain can exist in two forms. Elevated temperature converts it to a form that can bind ions and have a productive interaction with the light chain. However, conditions that prevent the heavy chain from combining with the light chain also stabilize the two subunit structure, suggesting that the high affinity of the complex is due to conformational changes that occur after chain interaction.

77 FR 64383 - Proposed Information Collection (Verification of VA Benefits) Activity: Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-10-19

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0406] Proposed Information Collection... any VA-guaranteed loans on an automatic basis. DATES: Written comments and recommendations on the... written comments on the collection of information through the Federal Docket Management System (FDMS) at...

Improving Performance through Knowledge Translation in the Veterans Health Administration

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Francis, Joseph; Perlin, Jonathan B.

2006-01-01

The Veterans Health Administration (VA) provides a case study for linking performance measurement, information technology, and aligned research efforts to facilitate quality improvement in a large, complex health system. Dialogue between clinical researchers and VA leaders occurs through structured activities (e.g., the Quality Enhancement…

38 CFR 61.55 - Technical assistance reports.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... (CONTINUED) VA HOMELESS PROVIDERS GRANT AND PER DIEM PROGRAM § 61.55 Technical assistance reports. Each recipient of a technical assistance grant must submit to VA, quarterly, a report describing the activities... 38 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief 2 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Technical assistance...

38 CFR 61.55 - Technical assistance reports.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... (CONTINUED) VA HOMELESS PROVIDERS GRANT AND PER DIEM PROGRAM § 61.55 Technical assistance reports. Each recipient of a technical assistance grant must submit to VA, quarterly, a report describing the activities... 38 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief 2 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Technical assistance...

38 CFR 61.55 - Technical assistance reports.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... (CONTINUED) VA HOMELESS PROVIDERS GRANT AND PER DIEM PROGRAM § 61.55 Technical assistance reports. Each recipient of a technical assistance grant must submit to VA, quarterly, a report describing the activities... 38 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief 2 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Technical assistance...

75 FR 13208 - Proposed Information Collection (IRIS) Activity; Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-03-18

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0619] Proposed Information Collection (IRIS... submitted to VA through the Inquiry Routing and Information System (IRIS). DATES: Written comments and... (IRIS), VA Form 0873. OMB Control Number: 2900-0619. Type of Review: Extension of a currently approved...

76 FR 27382 - Agency Information Collection Activity (VBA Loan Guaranty Service Lender Satisfaction Survey...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-05-11

... (VBA Loan Guaranty Service Lender Satisfaction Survey) Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits.... Title: Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) Loan Guaranty Service Lender Satisfaction Survey. OMB... collected will allow the VA to determine lenders' satisfaction with the VA's processes and to make...

Bond-based linear indices in QSAR: computational discovery of novel anti-trichomonal compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marrero-Ponce, Yovani; Meneses-Marcel, Alfredo; Rivera-Borroto, Oscar M.; García-Domenech, Ramón; De Julián-Ortiz, Jesus Vicente; Montero, Alina; Escario, José Antonio; Barrio, Alicia Gómez; Pereira, David Montero; Nogal, Juan José; Grau, Ricardo; Torrens, Francisco; Vogel, Christian; Arán, Vicente J.

2008-08-01

Trichomonas vaginalis ( Tv) is the causative agent of the most common, non-viral, sexually transmitted disease in women and men worldwide. Since 1959, metronidazole (MTZ) has been the drug of choice in the systemic treatment of trichomoniasis. However, resistance to MTZ in some patients and the great cost associated with the development of new trichomonacidals make necessary the development of computational methods that shorten the drug discovery pipeline. Toward this end, bond-based linear indices, new TOMOCOMD-CARDD molecular descriptors, and linear discriminant analysis were used to discover novel trichomonacidal chemicals. The obtained models, using non-stochastic and stochastic indices, are able to classify correctly 89.01% (87.50%) and 82.42% (84.38%) of the chemicals in the training (test) sets, respectively. These results validate the models for their use in the ligand-based virtual screening. In addition, they show large Matthews' correlation coefficients ( C) of 0.78 (0.71) and 0.65 (0.65) for the training (test) sets, correspondingly. The result of predictions on the 10% full-out cross-validation test also evidences the robustness of the obtained models. Later, both models are applied to the virtual screening of 12 compounds already proved against Tv. As a result, they correctly classify 10 out of 12 (83.33%) and 9 out of 12 (75.00%) of the chemicals, respectively; which is the most important criterion for validating the models. Besides, these classification functions are applied to a library of seven chemicals in order to find novel antitrichomonal agents. These compounds are synthesized and tested for in vitro activity against Tv. As a result, experimental observations approached to theoretical predictions, since it was obtained a correct classification of 85.71% (6 out of 7) of the chemicals. Moreover, out of the seven compounds that are screened, synthesized and biologically assayed, six compounds (VA7-34, VA7-35, VA7-37, VA7-38, VA7-68, VA7-70) show pronounced cytocidal activity at the concentration of 100 μg/ml at 24 h (48 h) within the range of 98.66%-100% (99.40%-100%), while only two molecules (chemicals VA7-37 and VA7-38) show high cytocidal activity at the concentration of 10 μg/ml at 24 h (48 h): 98.38% (94.23%) and 97.59% (98.10%), correspondingly. The LDA-assisted QSAR models presented here could significantly reduce the number of synthesized and tested compounds and could increase the chance of finding new chemical entities with anti-trichomonal activity.

Bond-based linear indices in QSAR: computational discovery of novel anti-trichomonal compounds.

PubMed

Marrero-Ponce, Yovani; Meneses-Marcel, Alfredo; Rivera-Borroto, Oscar M; García-Domenech, Ramón; De Julián-Ortiz, Jesus Vicente; Montero, Alina; Escario, José Antonio; Barrio, Alicia Gómez; Pereira, David Montero; Nogal, Juan José; Grau, Ricardo; Torrens, Francisco; Vogel, Christian; Arán, Vicente J

2008-08-01

Trichomonas vaginalis (Tv) is the causative agent of the most common, non-viral, sexually transmitted disease in women and men worldwide. Since 1959, metronidazole (MTZ) has been the drug of choice in the systemic treatment of trichomoniasis. However, resistance to MTZ in some patients and the great cost associated with the development of new trichomonacidals make necessary the development of computational methods that shorten the drug discovery pipeline. Toward this end, bond-based linear indices, new TOMOCOMD-CARDD molecular descriptors, and linear discriminant analysis were used to discover novel trichomonacidal chemicals. The obtained models, using non-stochastic and stochastic indices, are able to classify correctly 89.01% (87.50%) and 82.42% (84.38%) of the chemicals in the training (test) sets, respectively. These results validate the models for their use in the ligand-based virtual screening. In addition, they show large Matthews' correlation coefficients (C) of 0.78 (0.71) and 0.65 (0.65) for the training (test) sets, correspondingly. The result of predictions on the 10% full-out cross-validation test also evidences the robustness of the obtained models. Later, both models are applied to the virtual screening of 12 compounds already proved against Tv. As a result, they correctly classify 10 out of 12 (83.33%) and 9 out of 12 (75.00%) of the chemicals, respectively; which is the most important criterion for validating the models. Besides, these classification functions are applied to a library of seven chemicals in order to find novel antitrichomonal agents. These compounds are synthesized and tested for in vitro activity against Tv. As a result, experimental observations approached to theoretical predictions, since it was obtained a correct classification of 85.71% (6 out of 7) of the chemicals. Moreover, out of the seven compounds that are screened, synthesized and biologically assayed, six compounds (VA7-34, VA7-35, VA7-37, VA7-38, VA7-68, VA7-70) show pronounced cytocidal activity at the concentration of 100 mug/ml at 24 h (48 h) within the range of 98.66%-100% (99.40%-100%), while only two molecules (chemicals VA7-37 and VA7-38) show high cytocidal activity at the concentration of 10 mug/ml at 24 h (48 h): 98.38% (94.23%) and 97.59% (98.10%), correspondingly. The LDA-assisted QSAR models presented here could significantly reduce the number of synthesized and tested compounds and could increase the chance of finding new chemical entities with anti-trichomonal activity.

Fermented soymilk increases voluntary wheel running activity and sexual behavior in male rats.

PubMed

Sato, Takuya; Shinohara, Yasutomo; Kaneko, Daisuke; Nishimura, Ikuko; Matsuyama, Asahi

2010-12-01

Wheel running by rodents is thought to reflect voluntary exercise in humans. The present study examined the effect of fermented soymilk (FSM) on voluntary wheel running in rats. FSM was prepared from soymilk (SM) using the bacteria Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides. The rats were fed a normal diet for 3 weeks followed by a 3-week administration of diet containing FSM or SM (5% w/w), and then the diets were switched back to a normal diet for 3 weeks. The voluntary wheel running activity was increased by FSM administration, although no changes were observed by SM administration. This effect was observed 2 weeks after FSM administration and lasted 1 week after deprivation of FSM. Then we evaluated the effect of FSM on sexual behavior in male rats. FSM administration for 10 days significantly increased the number of mounts. The protein expression of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) increased in the hippocampus by FSM administration and it is suggested that FSM may change norepinephrine or dopamine signaling in the brain. Our study provides the first evidence that FSM increases voluntary wheel running activity and sexual behavior and suggests that TH may be involved in these effects.

Dual-afferent sensory input training for voluntary movement after stroke: A pilot randomized controlled study.

PubMed

Bae, Seahyun; Kim, Kyung-Yoon

2017-01-01

Stimulation through afferent sensory input is necessary to improve voluntary functional movement in stroke patients. Dual-afferent sensory input, which combines electromyography-triggered functional electric stimulation (ETFES) and action observation, was investigated to determine its effects on voluntary movements in stroke patients. This study was conducted on 18 patients with left hemiplegia diagnosed between 6 and 24 months prior. The 9 subjects in the dual-afferent sensory input (DASI) group underwent ETFES with action observation training for 4 weeks (20 min/d, 5 d/wk), while the 9 control group subjects underwent functional electric stimulation (FES) for the same duration. The outcome measures were the movement-related cortical potential (MRCP), H-reflex, electromyography (EMG), and balance. The control and DASI groups showed significant increases in MRCP, muscle activity, and balance, while H-reflex was significantly decreased. MRCP and balance showed significant differences between DASI and control groups. DASI stimulates voluntary movement in patients, causes rapid activation of the cerebral cortex, and reduces excessive excitation of spinal motor neurons. Therefore, DASI, which stimulates voluntary movement, has a greater effect on brain activation in stroke patients.

Motor unit recruitment during neuromuscular electrical stimulation: a critical appraisal.

PubMed

Bickel, C Scott; Gregory, Chris M; Dean, Jesse C

2011-10-01

Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) is commonly used in clinical settings to activate skeletal muscle in an effort to mimic voluntary contractions and enhance the rehabilitation of human skeletal muscles. It is also used as a tool in research to assess muscle performance and/or neuromuscular activation levels. However, there are fundamental differences between voluntary- and artificial-activation of motor units that need to be appreciated before NMES protocol design can be most effective. The unique effects of NMES have been attributed to several mechanisms, most notably, a reversal of the voluntary recruitment pattern that is known to occur during voluntary muscle contractions. This review outlines the assertion that electrical stimulation recruits motor units in a nonselective, spatially fixed, and temporally synchronous pattern. Additionally, it synthesizes the evidence that supports the contention that this recruitment pattern contributes to increased muscle fatigue when compared with voluntary actions and provides some commentary on the parameters of electrical stimulation as well as emerging technologies being developed to facilitate NMES implementation. A greater understanding of how electrical stimulation recruits motor units, as well as the benefits and limitations of its use, is highly relevant when using this tool for testing and training in rehabilitation, exercise, and/or research.

Structure and expression profiling of a novel calcium-dependent protein kinase gene, CDPK3a, in leaves, stems, grapes, and cell cultures of wild-growing grapevine Vitis amurensis Rupr.

PubMed

Kiselev, K V; Dubrovina, A S; Shumakova, O A; Karetin, Y A; Manyakhin, A Y

2013-03-01

KEY MESSAGE : VaCDPK3a is actively expressed in leaves, stems, inflorescences, and berries of Vitis amurensis and may act as a positive growth regulator, but is not involved in the regulation of resveratrol biosynthesis. Calcium-dependent protein kinases (CDPKs) are known to play important roles in plant development and defense against biotic and abiotic stresses. It has previously been shown that CDPK3a is the predominant CDPK transcript in cell cultures of wild-growing grapevine Vitis amurensis Rupr., which is known to possess high resistance against environmental stresses and to produce resveratrol, a polyphenol with valuable pharmacological effects. In this study, we aimed to define the full cDNA sequence of VaCDPK3a and analyze its organ-specific expression, responses to plant hormones, temperature stress and exogenous NaCl, and the effects of VaCDPK3a overexpression on biomass accumulation and resveratrol content in V. amurensis calli. VaCDPK3a was actively expressed in all analyzed V. amurensis organs and tissues and was not transcriptionally regulated by salt and temperature stresses. The highest VaCDPK3a expression was detected in young leaves and the lowest in stems. A reduction in the VaCDPK3a expression correlated with a lower rate of biomass accumulation and higher resveratrol content in calli of V. amurensis under different growth conditions. Overexpression of the VaCDPK3a gene in the V. amurensis calli significantly increased cell growth for a short period of time but did not have an effect on resveratrol production. Further subculturing of the transformed calli resulted in cell death and a decrease in expression of the endogenous VaCDPK3a. The data suggest that while VaCDPK3a acts as a positive regulator of V. amurensis cell growth, it is not involved in the signaling pathway regulating resveratrol biosynthesis and resistance to salt and temperature stresses.

Veterans' Preferences for Exchanging Information Using Veterans Affairs Health Information Technologies: Focus Group Results and Modeling Simulations.

PubMed

Haun, Jolie N; Chavez, Margeaux; Nazi, Kim; Antinori, Nicole; Melillo, Christine; Cotner, Bridget A; Hathaway, Wendy; Cook, Ashley; Wilck, Nancy; Noonan, Abigail

2017-10-23

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has multiple health information technology (HIT) resources for veterans to support their health care management. These include a patient portal, VetLink Kiosks, mobile apps, and telehealth services. The veteran patient population has a variety of needs and preferences that can inform current VA HIT redesign efforts to meet consumer needs. This study aimed to describe veterans' experiences using the current VA HIT and identify their vision for the future of an integrated VA HIT system. Two rounds of focus group interviews were conducted with a single cohort of 47 veterans and one female caregiver recruited from Bedford, Massachusetts, and Tampa, Florida. Focus group interviews included simulation modeling activities and a self-administered survey. This study also used an expert panel group to provide data and input throughout the study process. High-fidelity, interactive simulations were created and used to facilitate collection of qualitative data. The simulations were developed based on system requirements, data collected through operational efforts, and participants' reported preferences for using VA HIT. Pairwise comparison activities of HIT resources were conducted with both focus groups and the expert panel. Rapid iterative content analysis was used to analyze qualitative data. Descriptive statistics summarized quantitative data. Data themes included (1) current use of VA HIT, (2) non-VA HIT use, and (3) preferences for future use of VA HIT. Data indicated that, although the Secure Messaging feature was often preferred, a full range of HIT options are needed. These data were then used to develop veteran-driven simulations that illustrate user needs and expectations when using a HIT system and services to access VA health care services. Patient participant redesign processes present critical opportunities for creating a human-centered design. Veterans value virtual health care options and prefer standardized, integrated, and synchronized user-friendly interface designs. ©Jolie N. Haun, Margeaux Chavez, Kim Nazi, Nicole Antinori, Christine Melillo, Bridget A Cotner, Wendy Hathaway, Ashley Cook, Nancy Wilck, Abigail Noonan. Originally published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research (http://www.jmir.org), 23.10.2017.

Timely access to mental health care among women veterans.

PubMed

Brunner, Julian; Schweizer, C Amanda; Canelo, Ismelda A; Leung, Lucinda B; Strauss, Jennifer L; Yano, Elizabeth M

2018-04-05

Using survey data on (N = 419) patients at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) clinics we analyzed women veterans' reports of timely access to VA mental health care. We evaluated problems that patients might face in obtaining care, and examined subjective ratings of VA care as a function of timely access to mental health care. We found that 59% of participants reported "always" getting an appointment for mental health care as soon as needed. In adjusted analyses, two problems were negatively associated with timely access to mental health care: (a) medical appointments that interfere with other activities, and (b) difficulty getting questions answered between visits. Average subjective ratings of VA ranged from 8.2-8.6 out of 10, and 93% of participants would recommend VA care. Subjective ratings of VA were higher among women who reported timely access to mental health care. Findings suggest that overall experience of care is associated with timely access to mental health care, and that such access may be amenable to improvements related to clinic hours or mechanisms for answering patient questions between visits. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved).

Voluntary ambulation using voluntary upper limb muscle activity and Hybrid Assistive Limb® (HAL®) in a patient with complete paraplegia due to chronic spinal cord injury: A case report.

PubMed

Shimizu, Yukiyo; Kadone, Hideki; Kubota, Shigeki; Suzuki, Kenji; Saotome, Kousaku; Ueno, Tomoyuki; Abe, Tetsuya; Marushima, Aiki; Watanabe, Hiroki; Endo, Ayumu; Tsurumi, Kazue; Ishimoto, Ryu; Matsushita, Akira; Koda, Masao; Matsumura, Akira; Sankai, Yoshiyuki; Hada, Yasushi; Yamazaki, Masashi

2018-01-19

We sought to describe our experience with the Hybrid Assistive Limb® (HAL®) for active knee extension and voluntary ambulation with remaining muscle activity in a patient with complete paraplegia after spinal cord injury. A 30-year-old man with complete paraplegia used the HAL® for 1 month (10 sessions) using his remaining muscle activity, including hip flexor and upper limb activity. Electromyography was used to evaluate muscle activity of the gluteus maximus, tensor fascia lata, quadriceps femoris, and hamstring muscles in synchronization with the Vicon motion capture system. A HAL® session included a knee extension session with the hip flexor and voluntary gait with upper limb activity. After using the HAL® for one month, the patient's manual muscle hip flexor scores improved from 1/5 to 2/5 for the right and from 2/5 to 3/5 for the left knee, and from 0/5 to 1/5 for the extension of both knees. Knee extension sessions with HAL®, and hip flexor and upper-limb-triggered HAL® ambulation seem a safe and feasible option in a patient with complete paraplegia due to spinal cord injury.

Exercise restores decreased physical activity levels and increases markers of autophagy and oxidative capacity in myostatin/activin-blocked mdx mice.

PubMed

Hulmi, Juha J; Oliveira, Bernardo M; Silvennoinen, Mika; Hoogaars, Willem M H; Pasternack, Arja; Kainulainen, Heikki; Ritvos, Olli

2013-07-15

The importance of adequate levels of muscle size and function and physical activity is widely recognized. Myostatin/activin blocking increases skeletal muscle mass but may decrease muscle oxidative capacity and can thus be hypothesized to affect voluntary physical activity. Soluble activin receptor IIB (sActRIIB-Fc) was produced to block myostatin/activins. Modestly dystrophic mdx mice were injected with sActRIIB-Fc or PBS with or without voluntary wheel running exercise for 7 wk. Healthy mice served as controls. Running for 7 wk attenuated the sActRIIB-Fc-induced increase in body mass by decreasing fat mass. Running also enhanced/restored the markers of muscle oxidative capacity and autophagy in mdx mice to or above the levels of healthy mice. Voluntary running activity was decreased by sActRIIB-Fc during the first 3-4 wk correlating with increased body mass. Home cage physical activity of mice, quantified from the force plate signal, was decreased by sActRIIB-Fc the whole 7-wk treatment in sedentary mice. To understand what happens during the first weeks after sActRIIB-Fc administration, when mice are less active, healthy mice were injected with sActRIIB-Fc or PBS for 2 wk. During the sActRIIB-Fc-induced rapid 2-wk muscle growth period, oxidative capacity and autophagy were reduced, which may possibly explain the decreased running activity. These results show that increased muscle size and decreased markers of oxidative capacity and autophagy during the first weeks of myostatin/activin blocking are associated with decreased voluntary activity levels. Voluntary exercise in dystrophic mice enhances the markers of oxidative capacity and autophagy to or above the levels of healthy mice.

75 FR 76082 - Agency Information Collection (Credit Underwriting Standards and Procedures for Processing VA...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-12-07

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0521] Agency Information Collection (Credit Underwriting Standards and Procedures for Processing VA Guaranteed Loans) Activity Under OMB Review AGENCY... information abstracted below to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and comment. The PRA...

75 FR 60171 - Proposed Information Collection (Credit Underwriting Standards and Procedures for Processing VA...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-09-29

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0521] Proposed Information Collection (Credit Underwriting Standards and Procedures for Processing VA Guaranteed Loans) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY... comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act...

78 FR 60379 - Proposed Information Collection (Credit Underwriting Standards and Procedures for Processing VA...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-10-01

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0521] Proposed Information Collection (Credit Underwriting Standards and Procedures for Processing VA Guaranteed Loans) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY... comment on the proposed collection of certain information by the agency. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act...

77 FR 64387 - Agency Information Collection (Request for and Authorization To Release Medical Records or Health...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-10-19

... Protected Health Information to Nationwide Health Information Network, VA Form 10-0485. OMB Control Number... electronically exchange protected health information between VA and approved Nationwide Health Information... for and Authorization To Release Medical Records or Health Information) Activities Under OMB Review...

76 FR 56504 - Proposed Information Collection (Claim for Disability Insurance Benefits, Government Life...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-09-13

... for Disability Insurance Benefits, Government Life Insurance) Activity: Comment Request. AGENCY... for Disability Insurance Benefits, Government Life Insurance, VA Form 29-357. OMB Control Number: 2900... VA Form 29-357 to file a claim for disability insurance on National Service Life Insurance and United...

76 FR 71624 - Agency Information Collection (Claim for Disability Insurance Benefits, Government Life Insurance...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-11-18

... for Disability Insurance Benefits, Government Life Insurance) Activity Under OMB Review AGENCY... INFORMATION: Title: Claim for Disability Insurance Benefits, Government Life Insurance, VA Form 29-357. OMB...: Policyholders complete VA Form 29-357 to file a claim for disability insurance on National Service Life...

75 FR 76081 - Agency Information Collection (Disability Benefits Questionnaires) Activity Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-12-07

... Leukemias Disability Benefits Questionnaire, VA Form 21-0960b-1. c. Parkinson's Disease Disability Benefits...-cell Leukemias, Parkinson's and Ischemic Heart diseases. Veterans have the option of providing the.... Parkinson's Disease Disability Benefits Questionnaire, VA Form 21-0960c-1--5,000. Dated: December 1, 2010...

75 FR 52066 - Proposed Information Collection (Application for Supplemental Service Disabled Veterans Insurance...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-08-24

... (Application for Supplemental Service Disabled Veterans Insurance) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans... Disabled Veterans Insurance (SRH), VA Form 29-0188 and 29-0189, and Application for Supplemental Service Disabled Veterans (RH) Life Insurance, VA Form 29- 0190. OMB Control Number: 2900-0539. Type of Review...

75 FR 68037 - Proposed Information Collection (Application for Supplemental Service Disabled Veterans Insurance...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-11-04

... (Application for Supplemental Service Disabled Veterans Insurance) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans...: Application for Supplemental Service Disabled Veterans Insurance (SRH), VA Form 29-0188 and 29-0189, and Application for Supplemental Service Disabled Veterans (RH) Life Insurance, VA Form 29- 0190. OMB Control...

78 FR 36830 - Proposed Information Collection (Application for Supplemental Service Disabled Veterans Insurance...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-19

... (Application for Supplemental Service Disabled Veterans Insurance) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans... Disabled Veterans Insurance (SRH), VA Form 29-0188 and 29-0189, and Application for Supplemental Service Disabled Veterans (RH) Life Insurance, VA Form 29- 0190. OMB Control Number: 2900-0539. Type of Review...

76 FR 44091 - Proposed Information Collection (Child Care Subsidy) Activity: Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-07-22

... techniques or the use of other forms of information technology. Titles a. Child Care Subsidy Application Form... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0717] Proposed Information Collection (Child... solicits comments on information needed to determine VA employees' eligibility to participate in VA's child...

78 FR 49335 - Agency Information Collection (Ethics Consultation Feedback Tool (ECFT)) Activity Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-08-13

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0750] Agency Information Collection (Ethics...-0750''. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Title: Ethics Consultation Feedback Tool (ECFT), VA Form 10-10065... experience during the Ethics Consultation Service. VA will be used the data to improve the process of ethics...

77 FR 38396 - Agency Information Collection (One-VA Identification Verification Card) Activities Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-27

... FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Denise McLamb, Enterprise Records Service (005R1B), Department of Veterans... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0673] Agency Information Collection (One-VA..., Security, and Preparedness, Department of Veterans Affairs, will submit the collection of information...

THE US EPA'S REGIONAL VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT PROGRAM: A RESEARCH STRATEGY FOR 2001-2006

EPA Science Inventory

The goal of ORD's Regional Vulnerability Assessment (ReVA) Program is to develop all
approach to quantifying regional ecological vulnerabilities so that risk management activities can be targeted and prioritized. ReVA's focus is, to develop a set of methods that are applica...

78 FR 53506 - Proposed Information Collection (Care Coordination Home Telehealth (CCHT) Patient Satisfaction...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-08-29

... Coordination Home Telehealth (CCHT) Patient Satisfaction Survey, VA Form 10-0481); Activity: Comment Request... required to obtain patient perspective on satisfaction with the CCHT program and messaging devices. DATES.... Titles: Care Coordination Home Telehealth (CCHT) Patient Satisfaction Survey, VA Form 10-0481. OMB...

78 FR 35099 - Proposed Information Collection Activity: [Claim, Authorization and Invoice for Prosthetic Items...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-11

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0188] Proposed Information Collection... . Please refer to ``OMB Control No. 2900-0188'' in any correspondence. During the comment period, comments... Alterations, VA Form 10-0103. (c) Application for Adaptive Equipment Motor Vehicle, VA Form 10- 1394. (d...

Development and Properties of Valine-Alanine based Antibody-Drug Conjugates with Monomethyl Auristatin E as the Potent Payload

PubMed Central

Fan, Shiyong; Zhong, Wu; Zhou, Xinbo; Li, Song

2017-01-01

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), designed to selectively deliver cytotoxic agents to antigen-bearing cells, are poised to become an important class of cancer therapeutics. Human epithelial growth factor receptor (HER2) is considered an effective target for cancer treatment, and a HER2-targeting ADC has shown promising results. Most ADCs undergoing clinical evaluation contain linkers that have a lysosomal protease-cleavable dipeptide, of which the most common is valine-citrulline (VC). However, valine-alanine (VA), another dipeptide comprising two human essential amino acids, has been used in next generation ADCs loading new toxins, but the druggable properties of ADCs loaded the most popular monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE) remain to be further explored. In this study, we generated VA-based ADCs that connected MMAE to an anti-HER2 antibody. We studied the differences in the preparation process, in vitro stability, cathepsin B activity and in vitro cytotoxicity of VA-based ADC compared to the ADC of VC. VA had comparable performance to VC, which preliminarily displays its practicability. Additional efficacy and safety studies in a xenograft model indicate this novel ADC exerted potent anti-tumor activity and negligible toxicity. The results of this study show the application potential of VA-based ADC with MMAE as the payload. PMID:28841157

Development and Properties of Valine-Alanine based Antibody-Drug Conjugates with Monomethyl Auristatin E as the Potent Payload.

PubMed

Wang, Yanming; Fan, Shiyong; Zhong, Wu; Zhou, Xinbo; Li, Song

2017-08-25

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), designed to selectively deliver cytotoxic agents to antigen-bearing cells, are poised to become an important class of cancer therapeutics. Human epithelial growth factor receptor (HER2) is considered an effective target for cancer treatment, and a HER2-targeting ADC has shown promising results. Most ADCs undergoing clinical evaluation contain linkers that have a lysosomal protease-cleavable dipeptide, of which the most common is valine-citrulline (VC). However, valine-alanine (VA), another dipeptide comprising two human essential amino acids, has been used in next generation ADCs loading new toxins, but the druggable properties of ADCs loaded the most popular monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE) remain to be further explored. In this study, we generated VA-based ADCs that connected MMAE to an anti-HER2 antibody. We studied the differences in the preparation process, in vitro stability, cathepsin B activity and in vitro cytotoxicity of VA-based ADC compared to the ADC of VC. VA had comparable performance to VC, which preliminarily displays its practicability. Additional efficacy and safety studies in a xenograft model indicate this novel ADC exerted potent anti-tumor activity and negligible toxicity. The results of this study show the application potential of VA-based ADC with MMAE as the payload.

Pharmacy Benefits Management in the Veterans Health Administration Revisited: A Decade of Advancements, 2004-2014.

PubMed

Aspinall, Sherrie L; Sales, Mariscelle M; Good, Chester B; Calabrese, Vincent; Glassman, Peter A; Burk, Muriel; Moore, Von R; Neuhauser, Melinda M; Golterman, Lori; Ourth, Heather; Valentino, Michael A; Cunningham, Francesca E

2016-09-01

Over the past decade, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Pharmacy Benefits Management Services (PBM) has enhanced its formulary management activities and added programs to ensure that the national drug plan continues to meet the pharmacy needs of veterans and to promote safe and appropriate drug therapy in the face of rising medication expenditures. This article describes the broad range of services provided by the VA PBM that work in partnership to deliver a high-quality and sustainable pharmacy benefit for veterans. In support of formulary management, VA PBM pharmacists prepare extensive clinical guidance documents (e.g., drug monographs and criteria for use) that are used by physicians and pharmacists with operational and clinical oversight of the VA national formulary. The VA PBM has utilized various contracting techniques and continually evaluates drug utilization data to identify opportunities for potential savings. Remarkably, since before 2004, the average acquisition cost for a 1-month supply of medication has remained fairly stable at approximately $13-$15. Two new VA PBM programs are the VA Center for Medication Safety (VA MedSAFE) and the Clinical Pharmacy Practice Office (CPPO). VA MedSAFE is a comprehensive pharmacovigilance program focused on the detection, assessment, and prevention of adverse drug events, and CPPO is dedicated to improving safe and appropriate medication use by supporting and expanding clinical pharmacy practice. Moving forward, the VA PBM will consider new initiatives to stay at the forefront of providing quality care while maintaining economic viability. No outside funding supported this research. This work was supported by VA Pharmacy Benefits Management Services (VA PBM), Hines, Illinois, and VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Glassman is co-director of the VA Center for Medication Safety, which is part of the VA PBM. He is also part of the Medical Advisory Panel for the VA PMB. All other authors are employed by the VA PBM. The views expressed in this article are those of the authors, and no official endorsement by the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs or the U.S. government is intended or should be inferred. Study concept and design were contributed by Valentino, Cunningham, Good, Aspinall, and Sales. Calabrese and Ourth took the lead in data collection, along with Good, Cunningham, Aspinall, Sales, Burk, Moore, Neuhauser, and Golterman. Data interpretation was performed by Burk, Newhauser, and Golterman, along with Glassman, Calabrese, Moore, and Ourth. The manuscript was written by Aspinall and Sales, along with Burk, Newhauser, Golterman, Ourth, and Cunningham. Good, Glassman, and Moore revised the manuscript, along with Calabrese, Valentino, and Aspinall.

Alterations in kidney enzyme pattern in acute hypervitaminosis A.

PubMed

Alarcón, O M; Reinosa Fuller, J; García de Méndez, G; Agudelo, R; Carnevalí de Tatá, E; Silva, T

1998-06-01

The relation of excessive doses of vitamin A with various kidney pathologies is well known however, information concerning the relation of kidney enzyme activity with acute hypervitaminosis A is rather scarce. In this study we describe the kidney enzymatic alterations observed in rats that received daily intramuscular injections of 10,000, 30,000, 50,000 and 100,000 IU of vitamin A palmitate (VA) during seven days (TREATED GROUPS). A comparison is made with the enzyme activity in healthy rats pair-fed and treated with sodium palmitate by intramuscular injection (CONTROL GROUP). The treated rats showed a proportional increase (p < 0.05) in activity of acid maltase, transminases or aminotransferases (GOT and GPT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and acid protease with all doses of VA administered. Amylase, lipase and arginase tend to decrease (p < 0.05) in activity only with doses of 50,000 and 100,000 I.U. of VA. Several factors are responsible for these findings, such as kidney necrosis due to release of lysosomal acid hydrolases produced by hypervitaminosis A.

Valproic acid treatment response in vitro is determined by TP53 status in medulloblastoma.

PubMed

Mascaro-Cordeiro, Bruna; Oliveira, Indhira Dias; Tesser-Gamba, Francine; Pavon, Lorena Favaro; Saba-Silva, Nasjla; Cavalheiro, Sergio; Dastoli, Patrícia; Toledo, Silvia Regina Caminada

2018-05-22

Histone deacetylate inhibitors (HDACi), as valproic acid (VA), have been reported to enhance efficacy and to prevent drug resistance in some tumors, including medulloblastoma (MB). In the present study, we investigated VA role, combined to cisplatin (CDDP) in cell viability and gene expression of MB cell lines. Dose-response curve determined IC 50 values for each treatment: (1) VA single, (2) CDDP single, and (3) VA and CDDP combined. Cytotoxicity and flow cytometry evaluated cell viability after exposure to treatments. Quantitative PCR evaluated gene expression levels of AKT, CTNNB1, GLI1, KDM6A, KDM6B, NOTCH2, PTCH1, and TERT, before and after treatment. Besides, we performed next-generation sequencing (NGS) for PTCH1, TERT, and TP53 genes. The most effective treatment to reduce viability was combined for D283MED and ONS-76; and CDDP single for DAOY cells (p < 0.0001). TERT, GLI1, and AKT genes were overexpressed after treatments with VA. D283MED and ONS-76 cells presented variants in TERT and PTCH1, respectively and DAOY cell line presented a TP53 mutation. MB tumors belonging to SHH molecular subgroup, with TP53 MUT , would be the ones that present high risk in relation to VA use during the treatment, while TP53 WT MBs can benefit from VA therapy, both SHH and groups 3 and 4. Our study shows a new perspective about VA action in medulloblastoma cells, raising the possibility that VA may act in different patterns. According to the genetic background of MB cell, VA can stimulate cell cycle arrest and apoptosis or induce resistance to treatment via signaling pathways activation.

Raping and making love are different concepts: so are killing and voluntary euthanasia.

PubMed Central

Davies, J

1988-01-01

The distinction between 'kill' and 'help to die' is argued by analogy with the distinction between 'rape' and 'make love to'. The difference is the consent of the receiver of the act, therefore 'kill' is the wrong word for an act of active voluntary euthanasia. The argument that doctors must not be allowed by law to perform active voluntary euthanasia because this would recognise an infringement of the sanctity of life ('the red light principle') is countered by comparing such doctors with the drivers of emergency vehicles, who are allowed to drive through red lights. PMID:3184136

31 CFR 1021.540 - Voluntary information sharing among financial institutions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... CASINOS AND CARD CLUBS Special Information Sharing Procedures To Deter Money Laundering and Terrorist Activity for Casinos and Card Clubs § 1021.540 Voluntary information sharing among financial institutions...

31 CFR 1021.540 - Voluntary information sharing among financial institutions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... CASINOS AND CARD CLUBS Special Information Sharing Procedures To Deter Money Laundering and Terrorist Activity for Casinos and Card Clubs § 1021.540 Voluntary information sharing among financial institutions...

31 CFR 1021.540 - Voluntary information sharing among financial institutions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... CASINOS AND CARD CLUBS Special Information Sharing Procedures To Deter Money Laundering and Terrorist Activity for Casinos and Card Clubs § 1021.540 Voluntary information sharing among financial institutions...

31 CFR 1021.540 - Voluntary information sharing among financial institutions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... CASINOS AND CARD CLUBS Special Information Sharing Procedures To Deter Money Laundering and Terrorist Activity for Casinos and Card Clubs § 1021.540 Voluntary information sharing among financial institutions...

Voluntary euthanasia.

PubMed

Brewin, Thurstan B

1986-05-10

Brewin comments upon James Rachels' The End of Life (Oxford University Press; 1986) and Voluntary Euthanasia (Peter Owen; 1986), a compilation edited by A.B. Downing and B. Smoker that is an expanded version of a 1969 work by Britain's Voluntary Euthanasia Society. Rachels maintains that it is illogical to distinguish between active and passive euthanasia. In Voluntary Euthanasia, 17 contributors argue the pros and cons of the issue. The Voluntary Euthanasia Society proposes that mentally competent persons be allowed by law to request euthanasia, either when taken ill or by advance directive. Brewin says he is almost but not quite convinced by the arguments for legalized voluntary euthanasia. He is concerned about the "slippery slope," the uncertainties of prognosis and quality of life judgments, the pressures to which the terminally ill or aged might be subjected, and the potentially negative impact of euthanasia on the physician patient relationship.

Measuring physicians' productivity in a Veterans' Affairs Medical Center.

PubMed

Coleman, David L; Moran, Eileen; Serfilippi, Delchi; Mulinski, Paul; Rosenthal, Ronnie; Gordon, Bruce; Mogielnicki, R Peter

2003-07-01

The mission of the Department of Veterans Affairs includes patient care, education, research, and backup to the Department of Defense. Because the measurement of physicians' productivity must reflect both institutional goals and market forces, the authors designed a productivity model that uses measures of clinical workload and academic activities commensurate with the VA's investments in these activities. The productivity model evaluates four domains of physicians' activity: clinical work, education, research, and administration. Examples of the application of the productivity model in the evaluation of VA-paid physician-staff and in the composition of contracts for clinical services are provided. The proposed model is a relatively simple strategy for measuring a broad range of the work of academic physicians in VA medical centers. The model provides incentives for documentation of resident supervision and participation in administrative activities required for effective and efficient clinical care. In addition, the model can aid in determining resource distribution among clinical services and permits comparison with non-VA health care systems. A strategy for modifying the model to incorporate measures of quality of clinical care, research, education, and administration is proposed. The model has been a useful part of the process to ensure the optimum use of resources and to meet clinical and academic institutional goals. The activities and accomplishments used to define physician productivity will have a substantial influence on the character of the medical profession, the vitality of medical education and research, and the cost and quality of health care.

Adaptation to Coriolis perturbations of voluntary body sway transfers to preprogrammed fall-recovery behavior

PubMed Central

Ventura, Joel; DiZio, Paul; Lackner, James R.

2013-01-01

In a rotating environment, goal-oriented voluntary movements are initially disrupted in trajectory and endpoint, due to movement-contingent Coriolis forces, but accuracy is regained with additional movements. We studied whether adaptation acquired in a voluntary, goal-oriented postural swaying task performed during constant-velocity counterclockwise rotation (10 RPM) carries over to recovery from falling induced using a hold and release (H&R) paradigm. In H&R, standing subjects actively resist a force applied to their chest, which when suddenly released results in a forward fall and activation of an automatic postural correction. We tested H&R postural recovery in subjects (n = 11) before and after they made voluntary fore-aft swaying movements during 20 trials of 25 s each, in a counterclockwise rotating room. Their voluntary sway about their ankles generated Coriolis forces that initially induced clockwise deviations of the intended body sway paths, but fore-aft sway was gradually restored over successive per-rotation trials, and a counterclockwise aftereffect occurred during postrotation attempts to sway fore-aft. In H&R trials, we examined the initial 10- to 150-ms periods of movement after release from the hold force, when voluntary corrections of movement path are not possible. Prerotation subjects fell directly forward, whereas postrotation their forward motion was deviated significantly counterclockwise. The postrotation deviations were in a direction consistent with an aftereffect reflecting persistence of a compensation acquired per-rotation for voluntary swaying movements. These findings show that control and adaptation mechanisms adjusting voluntary postural sway to the demands of a new force environment also influence the automatic recovery of posture. PMID:24304863

Voluntary activation failure is detectable in some myositis patients with persisting quadriceps femoris weakness: an observational study

PubMed Central

Molloy, Catherine B; Al-Omar, Ahmed O; Edge, Kathryn T; Cooper, Robert G

2006-01-01

This cross-sectional, observational study was undertaken to examine whether voluntary activation failure could contribute to the persisting weakness observed in some patients with treated idiopathic inflammatory myositis. In 20 patients with myositis of more than six months' duration (5 males, 15 females; mean [± 1 SD] age 53 [11] years) and 102 normal subjects (44 males, 58 females; mean age 32 [8] years), isometric maximum voluntary contractions (MVCs) of the dominant quadriceps femoris (QF) were quantified. Absolute MVC results of normal subjects and patients were then normalised with respect to lean body mass (force per units of lean body mass), giving a result in Newtons per kilogram. Based on mass-normalised force data of normal subjects, patients were arbitrarily stratified into "weak" and "not weak" subgroups. During further MVC attempts, the "twitch interpolation" technique was used to assess whether the QF voluntary activation of patients was complete. This technique relies on the fact that, because muscle activation is incomplete during submaximal voluntary contractions, electrical stimulation of the muscle can induce force increments superimposed on the submaximal voluntary force being generated. No between-gender differences were seen in the mass-normalised MVC results of healthy subjects, so the gender-combined results of 6.6 (1.5) N/kg were used for patient stratification. No between-gender difference was found for mass-normalised MVCs in patients: males 5.4 (3.2) and females 3.0 (1.7) N/kg (p > 0.05). Mass-normalised MVCs of male patients were as great as those of normal subjects (p > 0.05), but mass-normalised MVCs of female patients were significantly smaller than those of the normal subjects (p < 0.001). Only one of the six "not weak" patients exhibited interpolated twitches during electrical stimulation, but six of the 14 "weak" patients did, the biggest twitches being seen in the weakest patient. That interpolated twitches can be induced in some myositis patients with ongoing QF weakness during supposed MVCs clearly suggests that voluntary activation failure does contribute to QF weakness in those patients. PMID:16606441

U.K. physicians' attitudes toward active voluntary euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide.

PubMed

Dickinson, George E; Lancaster, Carol J; Clark, David; Ahmedzai, Sam H; Noble, William

2002-01-01

A comparison of the views of geriatric medicine physicians and intensive care physicians in the United Kingdom on the topics of active voluntary euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide revealed rather different attitudes. Eighty percent of geriatricians, but only 52% of intensive care physicians, considered active voluntary euthanasia as never justified ethically. Gender and age did not play a major part in attitudinal differences of the respondents. If the variability of attitudes of these two medical specialties are anywhere near illustrative of other physicians in the United Kingdom, it would be difficult to formulate and implement laws and policies concerning euthanasia and assisted suicide. In addition, ample safeguards would be required to receive support from physicians regarding legalization.

Voluntary Truck and Bus Fuel-Economy-Program marketing plan. Final technical report, September 29, 1980-January 29, 1982

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

None

The aim of the program is to improve the utilization of fuel by commercial trucks and buses by updating and implementing specific approaches for educating and monitoring the trucking industry on methods and means of conserving fuels. The following outlines the marketing plan projects: increase use of program logo by voluntary program members and others; solicit trade publication membership and support; brief Congressional delegations on fuel conservation efforts; increase voluntary program presence before trade groups; increase voluntary program presence at truck and trade shows; create a voluntary program display for use at trade shows and in other areas; review voluntarymore » program graphics; increase voluntary program membership; and produce placemats carrying fuel conservation messages; produce a special edition of Fuel Economy News, emphasizing the driver's involvement in fuel conservation; produce posters carrying voluntary program fuel conservation message. Project objectives, activities, and results for each project are summarized.« less

75 FR 77958 - Agency Information Collection (Request for Employment Information in Connection With Claim for...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-12-14

... for Employment Information in Connection With Claim for Disability Benefits) Activity Under OMB Review....Regulations.gov or to VA's OMB Desk Officer, OMB Human Resources and Housing Branch, New Executive Office... INFORMATION: Title: Request for Employment Information in Connection with Claim for Disability Benefits, VA...

75 FR 53378 - Agency Information Collection (Request to Employer for Employment Information in Connection With...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-08-31

... to Employer for Employment Information in Connection With Claim for Disability Benefits) Activities... through http://www.Regulations.gov or to VA's OMB Desk Officer, OMB Human Resources and Housing Branch... Connection with Claim for Disability Benefits, VA Form Letter 29-459. OMB Control Number: 2900-0066. Type of...

75 FR 28858 - Agency Information Collection (Purchase of Shellfish) Activities Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-05-24

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0589] Agency Information Collection (Purchase... 852.270-3, Purchase of Shellfish, requires that a firm furnishing shellfish to VA must ensure that the... of the approved producer or shipper. The information is used to ensure that shellfish purchased by VA...

76 FR 40451 - Agency Information Collection (Veterans Mortgage Life Insurance-Change of Address Statement...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-07-08

... Mortgage Life Insurance-- Change of Address Statement) Activity Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits... Mortgage Life Insurance--Change of Address Statement, VA Form 29-0563. OMB Control Number: 2900-0503. Type... Mortgage Life Insurance when an address change for the veteran is received. VA uses the data collected to...

78 FR 6404 - Agency Information Collection (Survey of Chronic Gastrointestinal Illness in Persian Gulf...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-01-30

...: Approximately 25 percent military troops who were deployed in the first Persian Gulf War returned with... of Chronic Gastrointestinal Illness in Persian Gulf Veterans) Activities Under OMB Review AGENCY.... Survey of Chronic Gastrointestinal Illness in Persian Gulf Veterans, VA Form 10-21092a. b. VA Research...

78 FR 25298 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Comment Request for the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-04-30

.... Geological Survey, 807 National Center, 12201 Sunrise Valley Drive, Reston, VA 20192 (mail); 703-648- 7195... mail at U.S. Geological Survey, 989 National Center, 12201 Sunrise Valley Drive, Reston, VA 20192... Request: Extension of a currently approved collection. Affected Public: Business or Other-For-Profit...

75 FR 1120 - Agency Information Collection (Health-Care Use Survey for Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-01-08

... (Health-Care Use Survey for Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OEF/OIF) Veterans) Activity...-New (10-0478).'' SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Title: Health-Care Use Survey for Enduring Freedom and... VA health care; (2) document unique barriers to VA care for women and men; and (3) provide reliable...

76 FR 60134 - Proposed Information Collection (Monthly Statement of Wages Paid to Trainee) Activity; Comment...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-09-28

... on-the-job training or apprenticeship program. DATES: Written comments and recommendations on the...: Extension of a currently approved collection. Abstract: Employers providing on-job or apprenticeship training to veterans complete VA Form 28-1917 to report each veteran's wages during the preceding month. VA...

Sympathetic ophthalmia: incidence of ocular complications and vision loss in the sympathizing eye.

PubMed

Galor, Anat; Davis, Janet L; Flynn, Harry W; Feuer, William J; Dubovy, Sander R; Setlur, Vikram; Kesen, Muge R; Goldstein, Debra A; Tessler, Howard H; Ganelis, Irina Bykhovskaya; Jabs, Douglas A; Thorne, Jennifer E

2009-11-01

To report the frequency on presentation and subsequent incidence of ocular complications and vision loss in patients with sympathetic ophthalmia (SO) and to describe factors associated with decreased vision in the sympathizing eye. Multicenter retrospective case series. Three academic tertiary care uveitis clinics. Eighty-five patients with SO from 1976 to 2006. Review of existing medical records. Incident visual acuity (VA) loss to 20/50 or worse and 20/200 or worse and the median acuity over time. Twenty-six percent of patients with SO presented with a VA of 20/200 or worse in their sympathizing eye. Further development of vision loss to 20/200 or worse occurred at the rate of 10% per person-year (PY). Ocular complications were seen in the sympathizing eye in 47% of patients at presentation; further development of new complications occurred at the rate of 40%/PY. The ocular complications most often associated with decreased vision were cataract and optic nerve abnormality. Exudative retinal detachment and active intraocular inflammation were significantly associated with poorer VA in the sympathizing eye. The benefits of corticosteroids were indirectly demonstrated as their use led to more rapid disease inactivation. Fifty-nine percent of patients maintained a VA of better than 20/50 in their sympathizing eye; and 75% maintained a VA of better than 20/200. Although ocular complications were seen in many sympathizing eyes with SO, most patients maintained functional VA. The presence of an exudative retinal detachment and active intraocular inflammation correlated with poorer vision in the sympathizing eye.

76 FR 40734 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Announcement of Office of Management and Budget...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-07-11

...; Voluntary Cosmetic Registration Program AGENCY: Food and Drug Administration, HHS. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY... ``Voluntary Cosmetic Registration Program'' has been approved by the Office of Management and Budget [[Page...

Mental health and substance use disorder spending in the Department of Veterans Affairs, fiscal years 2000-2007.

PubMed

Wagner, Todd H; Sinnott, Patricia; Siroka, Andrew M

2011-04-01

This study analyzed spending for treatment of mental health and substance use disorders in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in fiscal years (FYs) 2000 through 2007. VA spending as reported in the VA Decision Support System was linked to patient utilization data as reported in the Patient Treatment Files, the National Patient Care Database, and the VA Fee Basis files. All care and costs from FY 2000 to FY 2007 were analyzed. Over the study period the number of veterans treated at the VA increased from 3.7 million to over 5.1 million (an average increase of 4.9% per year), and costs increased .7% per person per year. For mental health and substance use disorder treatment, the volume of inpatient care decreased markedly, residential care increased, and spending decreased on average 2% per year (from $668 in FY 2000 to $578 per person in FY 2007). FY 2007 saw large increases in mental health spending, bucking the trend from FY 2000 through FY 2006. VA's continued emphasis on outpatient and residential care was evident through 2007. This trend in spending might be unimpressive if VA were enrolling healthier Veterans, but the opposite seems to be true: over this time period the prevalence of most chronic conditions, including depression and posttraumatic stress disorder, increased. VA spending on mental health care grew rapidly in 2007, and given current military activities, this trend is likely to increase.

Active and Passive Physician-Assisted Dying and the Terminal Disease Requirement.

PubMed

Varelius, Jukka

2016-11-01

The view that voluntary active euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide should be made available for terminal patients only is typically warranted by reference to the risks that the procedures are seen to involve. Though they would appear to involve similar risks, the commonly endorsed end-of-life practices referred to as passive euthanasia are available also for non-terminal patients. In this article, I assess whether there is good reason to believe that the risks in question would be bigger in the case of voluntary active euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide than in that of passive euthanasia. I propose that there is not. On that basis, I suggest that limiting access to voluntary active euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide to terminal patients only is not consistent with accepting the existing practices of passive euthanasia. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Conflicting effects of fatigue and potentiation on voluntary force.

PubMed

Behm, David G; Button, Duane C; Barbour, Glen; Butt, Jeremy C; Young, Warren B

2004-05-01

The objective of this study was to investigate whether a warm-up consisting of a series of maximal contractions would augment the force and activation of subsequent leg extensor contractions. Both voluntary and evoked isometric contractions were tested to determine the mechanisms underlying the response. Nine subjects were tested for twitch, tetanic, submaximal (30%), and maximal voluntary contractile (MVC) properties before and after (1, 5, 10, and 15 minutes) one to three 10-second MVCs. MVC force either did not change following 1-2 MVCs or was depressed at 10 and 15 minutes after 3 MVCs. MVC activation was decreased (4.4-6.9%) throughout recovery, whereas submaximal contractions were minimally affected. Although overall, twitches were potentiated (15.5-19.8%) posttest, 3 MVCs had significantly greater twitch potentiation than 1 or 2 MVCs at 5 and 10 minutes. Results suggest that voluntary and evoked contractions respond differently to prior 10-second MVCs. In the present study, a warm-up routine of 1-3 MVCs of a 10-second duration did not enhance subsequent voluntary performance.

The Dual Regulatory Role of Amino Acids Leu480 and Gln481 of Prothrombin*

PubMed Central

Wiencek, Joesph R.; Hirbawi, Jamila; Yee, Vivien C.; Kalafatis, Michael

2016-01-01

Prothrombin (FII) is activated to α-thrombin (IIa) by prothrombinase. Prothrombinase is composed of a catalytic subunit, factor Xa (fXa), and a regulatory subunit, factor Va (fVa), assembled on a membrane surface in the presence of divalent metal ions. We constructed, expressed, and purified several mutated recombinant FII (rFII) molecules within the previously determined fVa-dependent binding site for fXa (amino acid region 473–487 of FII). rFII molecules bearing overlapping deletions within this significant region first established the minimal stretch of amino acids required for the fVa-dependent recognition exosite for fXa in prothrombinase within the amino acid sequence Ser478–Val479–Leu480–Gln481–Val482. Single, double, and triple point mutations within this stretch of rFII allowed for the identification of Leu480 and Gln481 as the two essential amino acids responsible for the enhanced activation of FII by prothrombinase. Unanticipated results demonstrated that although recombinant wild type α-thrombin and rIIaS478A were able to induce clotting and activate factor V and factor VIII with rates similar to the plasma-derived molecule, rIIaSLQ→AAA with mutations S478A/L480A/Q481A was deficient in clotting activity and unable to efficiently activate the pro-cofactors. This molecule was also impaired in protein C activation. Similar results were obtained with rIIaΔSLQ (where rIIaΔSLQ is recombinant human α-thrombin with amino acids Ser478/Leu480/Gln481 deleted). These data provide new evidence demonstrating that amino acid sequence Leu480–Gln481: 1) is crucial for proper recognition of the fVa-dependent site(s) for fXa within prothrombinase on FII, required for efficient initial cleavage of FII at Arg320; and 2) is compulsory for appropriate tethering of fV, fVIII, and protein C required for their timely activation by IIa. PMID:26601957

The neural basis of involuntary episodic memories.

PubMed

Hall, Shana A; Rubin, David C; Miles, Amanda; Davis, Simon W; Wing, Erik A; Cabeza, Roberto; Berntsen, Dorthe

2014-10-01

Voluntary episodic memories require an intentional memory search, whereas involuntary episodic memories come to mind spontaneously without conscious effort. Cognitive neuroscience has largely focused on voluntary memory, leaving the neural mechanisms of involuntary memory largely unknown. We hypothesized that, because the main difference between voluntary and involuntary memory is the controlled retrieval processes required by the former, there would be greater frontal activity for voluntary than involuntary memories. Conversely, we predicted that other components of the episodic retrieval network would be similarly engaged in the two types of memory. During encoding, all participants heard sounds, half paired with pictures of complex scenes and half presented alone. During retrieval, paired and unpaired sounds were presented, panned to the left or to the right. Participants in the involuntary group were instructed to indicate the spatial location of the sound, whereas participants in the voluntary group were asked to additionally recall the pictures that had been paired with the sounds. All participants reported the incidence of their memories in a postscan session. Consistent with our predictions, voluntary memories elicited greater activity in dorsal frontal regions than involuntary memories, whereas other components of the retrieval network, including medial-temporal, ventral occipitotemporal, and ventral parietal regions were similarly engaged by both types of memories. These results clarify the distinct role of dorsal frontal and ventral occipitotemporal regions in predicting strategic retrieval and recalled information, respectively, and suggest that, although there are neural differences in retrieval, involuntary memories share neural components with established voluntary memory systems.

The Neural Basis of Involuntary Episodic Memories

PubMed Central

Hall, Shana A.; Rubin, David C.; Miles, Amanda; Davis, Simon W.; Wing, Erik A.; Cabeza, Roberto; Berntsen, Dorthe

2014-01-01

Voluntary episodic memories require an intentional memory search, whereas involuntary episodic memories come to mind spontaneously without conscious effort. Cognitive neuroscience has largely focused on voluntary memory, leaving the neural mechanisms of involuntary memory largely unknown. We hypothesized that because the main difference between voluntary and involuntary memory is the controlled retrieval processes required by the former, there would be greater frontal activity for voluntary than involuntary memories. Conversely, we predicted that other components of the episodic retrieval network would be similarly engaged in the two types of memory. During encoding, all participants heard sounds, half paired with pictures of complex scenes and half presented alone. During retrieval, paired and unpaired sounds were presented panned to the left or to the right. Participants in the involuntary group were instructed to indicate the spatial location of the sound, whereas participants in the voluntary group were asked to additionally recall the pictures that had been paired with the sounds. All participants reported the incidence of their memories in a post-scan session. Consistent with our predictions, voluntary memories elicited greater activity in dorsal frontal regions than involuntary memories, whereas other components of the retrieval network, including medial temporal, ventral occipitotemporal, and ventral parietal regions were similarly engaged by both types of memories. These results clarify the distinct role of dorsal frontal and ventral occipitotemporal regions in predicting strategic retrieval and recalled information, respectively, and suggest that while there are neural differences in retrieval, involuntary memories share neural components with established voluntary memory systems. PMID:24702453

Targeting and destroying tumor vasculature with a near-infrared laser-activated "nanobomb" for efficient tumor ablation.

PubMed

Gao, Wen; Li, Shuangshuang; Liu, Zhenhua; Sun, Yuhui; Cao, Wenhua; Tong, Lili; Cui, Guanwei; Tang, Bo

2017-09-01

Attacking the supportive vasculature network of a tumor offers an important new avenue for cancer therapy. Herein, a near-infrared (NIR) laser-activated "nanobomb" was developed as a noninvasive and targeted physical therapeutic strategy to effectively disrupt tumor neovasculature in an accurate and expeditious manner. This "nanobomb" was rationally fabricated via the encapsulation of vinyl azide (VA) into c(RGDfE) peptide-functionalized, hollow copper sulfide (HCuS) nanoparticles. The resulting RGD@HCuS(VA) was selectively internalized into integrin α v β 3 -expressing tumor vasculature endothelial cells and dramatically increased the photoacoustic signals from the tumor neovasculature, achieving a maximum signal-to-noise ratio at 4 h post-injection. Upon NIR irradiation, the local temperature increase triggered VA to release N 2 bubbles rapidly. Subsequently, these N 2 bubbles could instantly explode to destroy the neovasculature and further induce necrosis of the surrounding tumor cells. A single-dose injection of RGD@HCuS(VA) led to complete tumor regression after laser irradiation, with no tumor regrowth for 30 days. More importantly, high-resolution photoacoustic angiography, combined with excellent biodegradability, facilitated the precise destruction of tumor neovasculature by RGD@HCuS(VA) without damaging normal tissues. These results demonstrate the great potential of this "nanobomb" for clinical translation to treat cancer patients with NIR laser-accessible orthotopic tumors. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Being First Matters: Topographical Representational Similarity Analysis of ERP Signals Reveals Separate Networks for Audiovisual Temporal Binding Depending on the Leading Sense

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

In multisensory integration, processing in one sensory modality is enhanced by complementary information from other modalities. Intersensory timing is crucial in this process because only inputs reaching the brain within a restricted temporal window are perceptually bound. Previous research in the audiovisual field has investigated various features of the temporal binding window, revealing asymmetries in its size and plasticity depending on the leading input: auditory–visual (AV) or visual–auditory (VA). Here, we tested whether separate neuronal mechanisms underlie this AV–VA dichotomy in humans. We recorded high-density EEG while participants performed an audiovisual simultaneity judgment task including various AV–VA asynchronies and unisensory control conditions (visual-only, auditory-only) and tested whether AV and VA processing generate different patterns of brain activity. After isolating the multisensory components of AV–VA event-related potentials (ERPs) from the sum of their unisensory constituents, we ran a time-resolved topographical representational similarity analysis (tRSA) comparing the AV and VA ERP maps. Spatial cross-correlation matrices were built from real data to index the similarity between the AV and VA maps at each time point (500 ms window after stimulus) and then correlated with two alternative similarity model matrices: AVmaps = VAmaps versus AVmaps ≠ VAmaps. The tRSA results favored the AVmaps ≠ VAmaps model across all time points, suggesting that audiovisual temporal binding (indexed by synchrony perception) engages different neural pathways depending on the leading sense. The existence of such dual route supports recent theoretical accounts proposing that multiple binding mechanisms are implemented in the brain to accommodate different information parsing strategies in auditory and visual sensory systems. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Intersensory timing is a crucial aspect of multisensory integration, determining whether and how inputs in one modality enhance stimulus processing in another modality. Our research demonstrates that evaluating synchrony of auditory-leading (AV) versus visual-leading (VA) audiovisual stimulus pairs is characterized by two distinct patterns of brain activity. This suggests that audiovisual integration is not a unitary process and that different binding mechanisms are recruited in the brain based on the leading sense. These mechanisms may be relevant for supporting different classes of multisensory operations, for example, auditory enhancement of visual attention (AV) and visual enhancement of auditory speech (VA). PMID:28450537

Voluntary Activity of Polish People and Its Motives in Recent Years: New Volunteering

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kosewska, Bernadetta

2015-01-01

This article covers an issue or the phenomenon of volunteering. The introduction is a recall of a definition of volunteering. Then it shows the distribution of voluntary activity in different countries of the European Union in order to look at some aspects of the phenomenon in the microscale of one country--Poland. It shows the percentage of…

University-Level Practical Activities in Bioinformatics Benefit Voluntary Groups of Pupils in the Last 2 Years of School

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Barker, Daniel; Alderson, Rosanna G.; McDonagh, James L.; Plaisier, Heleen; Comrie, Muriel M.; Duncan, Leigh; Muirhead, Gavin T. P.; Sweeney, Stuart D.

2015-01-01

Background: Bioinformatics--the use of computers in biology--is of major and increasing importance to biological sciences and medicine. We conducted a preliminary investigation of the value of bringing practical, university-level bioinformatics education to the school level. We conducted voluntary activities for pupils at two schools in Scotland…

Asymmetrical Brain Activity Induced by Voluntary Spatial Attention Depends on the Visual Hemifield: A Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Harasawa, Masamitsu; Shioiri, Satoshi

2011-01-01

The effect of the visual hemifield to which spatial attention was oriented on the activities of the posterior parietal and occipital visual cortices was examined using functional near-infrared spectroscopy in order to investigate the neural substrates of voluntary visuospatial attention. Our brain imaging data support the theory put forth in a…

Harnessing Protocolized Adaptation in Dissemination: Successful Implementation and Sustainment of the Veterans Affairs Coordinated-Transitional Care Program in a Non-Veterans Affairs Hospital.

PubMed

Kind, Amy J H; Brenny-Fitzpatrick, Maria; Leahy-Gross, Kris; Mirr, Jacquelyn; Chapman, Elizabeth; Frey, Brooke; Houlahan, Beth

2016-02-01

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Coordinated-Transitional Care (C-TraC) program is a low-cost transitional care program that uses hospital-based nurse case managers, inpatient team integration, and in-depth posthospital telephone contacts to support high-risk patients and their caregivers as they transition from hospital to community. The low-cost, primarily telephone-based C-TraC program reduced 30-day rehospitalizations by one-third, leading to significant cost savings at one VA hospital. Non-VA hospitals have expressed interest in launching C-TraC, but non-VA hospitals differ in important ways from VA hospitals, particularly in terms of context, culture, and resources. The objective of this project was to adapt C-TraC to the specific context of one non-VA setting using a modified Replicating Effective Programs (REP) implementation theory model and to test the feasibility of this protocolized implementation approach. The modified REP model uses a mentored phased-based implementation with intensive preimplementation activities and harnesses key local stakeholders to adapt processes and goals to local context. Using this protocolized implementation approach, an adapted C-TraC protocol was created and launched at the non-VA hospital in July 2013. In its first 16 months, C-TraC successfully enrolled 1,247 individuals with 3.2 full-time nurse case managers, achieving good fidelity for core protocol steps. C-TraC participants experienced a 30-day rehospitalization rate of 10.8%, compared with 16.6% for a contemporary comparison group of similar individuals for whom C-TraC was not available (n = 1,307) (P < .001). The new C-TraC program continues in operation. Use of a modified REP model to guide protocolized adaptation to local context resulted in a C-TraC program that was feasible and sustained in a real-world non-VA setting. A modified REP implementation framework may be an appropriate foundational step for other clinical programs seeking to harness protocolized adaptation in mentored dissemination activities. © 2016, Copyright the Authors Journal compilation © 2016, The American Geriatrics Society.

Timing of cortical excitability changes during the reaction time of movements superimposed on tonic motor activity.

PubMed

Schneider, Cyril; Lavoie, Brigitte A; Barbeau, Hugues; Capaday, Charles

2004-12-01

Seated subjects were instructed to react to an auditory cue by simultaneously contracting the tibialis anterior (TA) muscle of each ankle isometrically. Focal transcranial magnetic stimulation of the leg area of the motor cortex (MCx) was used to determine the time course of changes in motor-evoked potential amplitude (MEP) during the reaction time (RT). In one condition the voluntary contraction was superimposed on tonic EMG activity maintained at 10% of maximal voluntary contraction. In the other condition the voluntary contraction was made starting from rest. MEPs in the TA contralateral to the stimulation coil were evoked at various times during the RT in each condition. These were compared to the control MEPs evoked during tonic voluntary activity or with the subject at rest. The RT was measured trial by trial from the EMG activity of the TA ipsilateral to the magnetic stimulus, taking into account the nearly constant time difference between the two sides. The MEPs became far greater than control MEPs during the RT (mean = 332%, SD = 44 %, of control MEPs, P < 0.001) without any measurable change in the background level of EMG activity. The onset of this facilitation occurred on average 12.80 ms (SD = 7.55 ms) before the RT. There was no difference in the onset of facilitation between the two conditions. Because MEPs were facilitated without a change in the background EMG activity, it is concluded that this facilitation is specifically due to an increase of MCx excitability just before voluntary muscle activation. This conclusion is further reinforced by the observation that MEPs evoked by near-threshold anodal stimuli to the MCx were not facilitated during the RT, in contrast to those evoked by near-threshold transcranial magnetic stimulation. However, several observations in the present and previous studies indicate that MEP amplitude may be more sensitive to alpha-motoneuron activity than to motor cortical neuron activity, an idea that has important methodological implications.

Absent movement-related cortical potentials in children with primary motor stereotypies.

PubMed

Houdayer, Elise; Walthall, Jessica; Belluscio, Beth A; Vorbach, Sherry; Singer, Harvey S; Hallett, Mark

2014-08-01

The underlying pathophysiologic mechanism for complex motor stereotypies in children is unknown, with hypotheses ranging from an arousal to a motor control disorder. Movement-related cortical potentials (MRCPs), representing the activation of cerebral areas involved in the generation of movements, precede and accompany self-initiated voluntary movements. The goal of this study was to compare cerebral activity associated with stereotypies to that seen with voluntary movements in children with primary complex motor stereotypies. Electroencephalographic (EEG) activity synchronized with video recording was recorded in 10 children diagnosed with primary motor stereotypies and 7 controls. EEG activity related to stereotypies and self-paced arm movements were analyzed for presence or absence of early or late MRCP, a steep negativity beginning about 1 second before the onset of a voluntary movement. Early MRCPs preceded self-paced arm movements in 8 of 10 children with motor stereotypies and in 6 of 7 controls. Observed MRCPs did not differ between groups. No MRCP was identified before the appearance of a complex motor stereotypy. Unlike voluntary movements, stereotypies are not preceded by MRCPs. This indicates that premotor areas are likely not involved in the preparation of these complex movements and suggests that stereotypies are initiated by mechanisms different from voluntary movements. Further studies are required to determine the site of the motor control abnormality within cortico-striatal-thalamo-cortical pathways and to identify whether similar findings would be found in children with secondary stereotypies. © 2013 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.

Absent movement-related cortical potentials in children with primary motor stereotypies

PubMed Central

Houdayer, Elise; Walthall, Jessica; Belluscio, Beth A.; Vorbach, Sherry; Singer, Harvey S.; Hallett, Mark

2013-01-01

Background The underlying pathophysiologic mechanism for complex motor stereotypies in children is unknown with hypotheses ranging from an arousal to a motor control disorder. Movement-related cortical potentials (MRCPs), representing the activation of cerebral areas involved in the generation of movements, precede and accompany self-initiated voluntary movements. The goal of this study was to compare cerebral activity associated with stereotypies to that seen with voluntary movements in children with primary complex motor stereotypies. Methods Electroencephalographic (EEG) activity synchronized with video recording was recorded in 10 children diagnosed with primary motor stereotypies and 7 controls. EEG activity related to stereotypies and self-paced arm movements were analyzed for presence or absence of early or late MRCP, a steep negativity beginning about one second before the onset of a voluntary movement. Results Early MRCPs preceded self-paced arm movements in 8 out of 10 children with motor stereotypies and in 6 out of 7 controls. Observed MRCPs did not differ between groups. No MRCP was identified before the appearance of a complex motor stereotypy. Conclusions Unlike voluntary movements, stereotypies are not preceded by MRCPs. This indicates that premotor areas are likely not involved in the preparation of these complex movements and suggests that stereotypies are initiated by mechanisms different from voluntary movements. Further studies are required to determine the site of the motor control abnormality within cortico-striatal-thalamo-cortical pathways and to identify whether similar findings would be found in children with secondary stereotypies. PMID:24259275

38 CFR 1.941 - Suspension of collection activity.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... administrative offset prescribed by 31 U.S.C. 3716(e)(1); or (3) The debtor agrees to pay interest on the amount... decision on the administrative review or waiver request. (d) When VA learns that a bankruptcy petition has... automatic stay does not apply, has been lifted, or is no longer in effect. VA shall seek legal advice...

75 FR 48412 - Proposed Information Collection (Six-Month Post-Exit Focus Interview of Former VHA Employees...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-08-10

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-New (VA Form 10-0487)] Proposed Information Collection (Six-Month Post-Exit Focus Interview of Former VHA Employees) Activities; Under OMB Review AGENCY...).'' SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Title: Six-Month Post-Exit Focus Interview of Former VHA Employees, VA Form 10-0487...

78 FR 6850 - Agency Information Collection (Monthly Record of Training and Wages) Activities Under OMB

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-01-31

... collection of information through www.Regulations.gov or to VA's OMB Desk Officer, OMB Human Resources and... Management and Budget (OMB) for review and comment. The PRA submission describes the nature of the... collection. Abstract: On-the-job training establishments and trainers in certain special programs use VA Form...

75 FR 56662 - Agency Information Collection (Request for Nursing Home Information in Connection With Claim for...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-09-16

... for Nursing Home Information in Connection With Claim for Aid and Attendance) Activity Under OMB... INFORMATION: Title: Request for Nursing Home Information in Connection with Claim for Aid and Attendance, VA... collection. Abstract: The data collected on VA Form 21-0779 is used to determine veterans residing in nursing...

Gap analysis: transition of health care from Department of Defense to Department of Veterans Affairs.

PubMed

Randall, Marjorie J

2012-01-01

This study examined the effectiveness of Public Law 110-181, "National Defense Authorization Act of Fiscal Year 2008, Title XVI-Wounded Warriors Matter," as it relates to health care for returning Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OEF/OIF) combat veterans. Specifically, it examined the gap between the time an OEF/OIF combat service member left active service and subsequently obtained health care within the Veteran Affairs (VA) Healthcare System, and which factors influenced or impeded the veteran from obtaining health care sooner. Data were collected from 376 OEF/OIF combat veterans who sought health care at the Nashville or Murfreesboro VA Medical Centers. A questionnaire was designed exclusively for this study. The average time gap for an OEF/OIF combat veteran to transition from Department of Defense to VA health care was 3.83 months (SD 7.17). Twenty-six percent of respondents reported there were factors that impeded them from coming to the VA sooner. Factors included lack of knowledge about VA benefits, transportation/distance, perceptions of losing military career, seeking help as sign of weakness, and VA reputation. The study provided some evidence to support that Department of Defense and VA are meeting mandates for providing seamless transition of health care set forth by "Public Law 110-181, National Defense Authorization Act of Fiscal Year 2008."

Neural mechanisms of voluntary and involuntary recall: a PET study.

PubMed

Hall, Nicoline Marie; Gjedde, Albert; Kupers, Ron

2008-01-25

Neuropsychological and neuroimaging studies on episodic memory retrieval have primarily focused on volitional memory tasks. However, some conscious memories arise involuntarily, i.e. without a strategic retrieval attempt, yet little is known about the neural network underlying involuntary episodic memory. The aim of this study was to determine whether voluntary and involuntary recall are mediated by separate cortical networks. We used positron emission tomography (PET) to measure changes in regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) in 12 healthy subjects during voluntary and involuntary cued recall of pictures and a control condition with no episodic memory requirements. Involuntary recall was elicited by using an incidental memory task. Compared to the control condition, voluntary and involuntary recall were both associated with significant regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) increases in posterior cingulate gyrus (PCG; BA 23), left precuneus (BA 7), and right parahippocampal gyrus (BA 35/36). In addition, rCBF in right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (PFC; BA 8/9) and left precuneus (BA 7) was significantly larger during voluntary compared to involuntary recall, while rCBF was enhanced in left dorsolateral PFC (BA 9) during involuntary recall. The findings corroborate an association of the right PFC with a strategic component of episodic memory retrieval. Moreover, they show for the first time that it is possible to activate the medial temporal lobe, the PCG, and the precuneus, regions normally associated with retrieval success, without this strategic element. The relatively higher activity in precuneus during voluntary compared to involuntary recall suggests that activity in this region co-varies not only with retrieval success but also with retrieval intentionality.

4,6-Diaryl/heteroarylpyrimidin-2(1H)-ones as a new class of xanthine oxidase inhibitors.

PubMed

Shukla, Shiwani; Kumar, Dinesh; Ojha, Ritu; Gupta, Manish K; Nepali, Kunal; Bedi, Preet M S

2014-07-01

A series of 4,6-diaryl/heteroarylpyrimidones was synthesized employing silica-supported fluoroboric acid under solvent-free conditions in a microwave reactor. The catalytic influence of HBF4-SiO2 was investigated in detail to optimize the reaction conditions. The synthesized compounds were evaluated for in vitro xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitory activity for the first time. Structure-activity relationship analyses are also presented. Among the synthesized compounds, VA-5, -9, -10, -12, -22, -23, and -25 were the active inhibitors with IC50 values ranging from 6.45 to 13.46 µM. Compound VA-25 with a pyridinyl ring as ring A and a thiophenyl ring as ring B emerged as the most potent XO inhibitor (IC50 = 6.45 µM) in comparison to allopurinol (IC50 = 12.24 µM). Some of the important interactions of VA-25 with the amino acid residues of the active site of XO were figured out by molecular modeling studies. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Cooperation enhanced by the coevolution of teaching activity in evolutionary prisoner's dilemma games with voluntary participation.

PubMed

Shen, Chen; Chu, Chen; Geng, Yini; Jin, Jiahua; Chen, Fei; Shi, Lei

2018-01-01

Voluntary participation, as an additional strategy involved in repeated games, has been proved to be an efficient way to promote the evolution of cooperation theoretically and empirically. Besides, current studies show that the coevolution of teaching activity can promote cooperation. Thus, inspired by aforementioned above, we investigate the effect of coevolution of teaching activity on the evolution of cooperation for prisoner's dilemma game with voluntary participation: when the focal player successfully enforces its strategy on the opponent, his teaching ability will get an increase. Through numerical simulation, we have shown that voluntary participation could effectively promote the fraction of cooperation, which is also affected by the value of increment. Furthermore, we investigate the influence of the increment value on the density of different strategies and find that there exists an optimal increment value that plays an utmost role on the evolutionary dynamics. With regard to this observation, we unveil that an optimal value of increment can lead to strongest heterogeneity in agents' teaching ability, further promoting the evolution of cooperation.

Maternal exercise during pregnancy promotes physical activity in adult offspring

PubMed Central

Eclarinal, Jesse D.; Zhu, Shaoyu; Baker, Maria S.; Piyarathna, Danthasinghe B.; Coarfa, Cristian; Fiorotto, Marta L.; Waterland, Robert A.

2016-01-01

Previous rodent studies have shown that maternal voluntary exercise during pregnancy leads to metabolic changes in adult offspring. We set out to test whether maternal voluntary exercise during pregnancy also induces persistent changes in voluntary physical activity in the offspring. Adult C57BL/6J female mice were randomly assigned to be caged with an unlocked (U) or locked (L) running wheel before and during pregnancy. Maternal running behavior was monitored during pregnancy, and body weight, body composition, food intake, energy expenditure, total cage activity, and running wheel activity were measured in the offspring at various ages. U offspring were slightly heavier at birth, but no group differences in body weight or composition were observed at later ages (when mice were caged without access to running wheels). Consistent with our hypothesis, U offspring were more physically active as adults. This effect was observed earlier in female offspring (at sexual maturation). Remarkably, at 300 d of age, U females achieved greater fat loss in response to a 3-wk voluntary exercise program. Our findings show for the first time that maternal physical activity during pregnancy affects the offspring’s lifelong propensity for physical activity and may have important implications for combating the worldwide epidemic of physical inactivity and obesity.—Eclarinal, J. D., Zhu, S., Baker, M. S., Piyarathna, D. B., Coarfa, C., Fiorotto, M. L., Waterland, R. A. Maternal exercise during pregnancy promotes physical activity in adult offspring. PMID:27033262

Leisure-time physical activity and mortality in a multiethnic prospective cohort study: the Northern Manhattan Study.

PubMed

Willey, Joshua Z; Moon, Yeseon Park; Sherzai, Ayesha; Cheung, Ying Kuen; Sacco, Ralph L; Elkind, Mitchell S V

2015-07-01

To examine whether the survival benefit of exercise is modified by obesity. In the Northern Manhattan Study, we collected baseline sociodemographics and cardiovascular disease risk factors. The primary exposure was leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) and the outcomes were total, vascular, and nonvascular deaths (non-VaD). LTPA was defined as any versus none and metabolic equivalent score category (total activity weighted by intensity). We used Cox models to estimate the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). A total of 3298 participants (mean age 69 years, 52% Hispanic, 63% women) were followed over a mean of 11.8 years with 1589 total deaths (641 vascular, 819 nonvascular). Any activity (adjusted HR: 0.84, 95% CI: 0.75-0.94) was associated with reduced risk of all-cause mortality and non-VaD, but not VaD. We found an interaction (P < .05) of LTPA with body mass index (BMI) less than 30 for all-cause and vascular mortality. Any LTPA was associated with reduced all-cause mortality (adjusted HR: 0.77, 95% CI: 0.68-0.87) and VaD (adjusted HR: 0.79, 95% CI: 0.65-0.97) only among those with BMI less than 30. We found no evidence of an independent survival benefit of LTPA among those with BMI more than 30. The health benefits of exercise should be considered in the context of obesity. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Proprioceptive guidance of human voluntary wrist movements studied using muscle vibration.

PubMed Central

Cody, F W; Schwartz, M P; Smit, G P

1990-01-01

1. The alterations in voluntary wrist extension and flexion movement trajectories induced by application of vibration to the tendon of flexor carpi radialis throughout the course of the movement, together with the associated EMG patterns, have been studied in normal human subjects. Both extension and flexion movements were routinely of a target amplitude of 30 deg and made against a torque load of 0.32 N m. Flexor tendon vibration consistently produced undershooting of voluntary extension movements. In contrast, voluntary flexion movements were relatively unaffected. 2. The degree of vibration-induced undershooting of 1 s voluntary extension movements was graded according to the amplitude (0.75, 1.0 and 1.5 mm) of flexor tendon vibration. 3. As flexor vibration was initiated progressively later (at greater angular thresholds) during the course of 1 s voluntary extension movements, and the period of vibration was proportionately reduced, so the degree of vibration-induced undershooting showed a corresponding decline. 4. Varying the torque loads (0.32, 0.65 and 0.97 N m) against which 1 s extension movements were made, and thereby the strength of voluntary extensor contraction, produced no systematic changes in the degree of flexor vibration-induced undershooting. 5. Analysis of EMG patterns recorded from wrist flexor and extensor muscles indicated that vibration-induced undershooting of extension movements resulted largely from a reduction in activity in the prime-mover rather than increased antagonist activity. The earliest reductions in extensor EMG commenced some 40 ms after the onset of vibration, i.e. well before voluntary reaction time; these initial responses were considered to be 'automatic' in nature. 6. These results support the view that the central nervous system utilizes proprioceptive information in the continuous regulation of moderately slow voluntary wrist movements. Proprioceptive sensory input from the passively lengthening antagonist muscle, presumably arising mainly from muscle spindle I a afferents, appears to be particularly important and to act mainly in the reciprocal control of the prime-mover. PMID:2213604

Carbonic anhydrase activators. Activation of isoforms I, II, IV, VA, VII, and XIV with L- and D-phenylalanine and crystallographic analysis of their adducts with isozyme II: stereospecific recognition within the active site of an enzyme and its consequences for the drug design.

PubMed

Temperini, Claudia; Scozzafava, Andrea; Vullo, Daniela; Supuran, Claudiu T

2006-05-18

Activation of six human brain carbonic anhydrases (hCAs, EC 4.2.1.1), hCA I, II, IV, VA, VII, and XIV, with l-/d-phenylalanine was investigated kinetically and by X-ray crystallography. l-Phe was a potent activator of isozymes I, II, and XIV (K(A)s of 13-240 nM), a weaker activator of hCA VA and VII (K(A)s of 9.8-10.9 microM), and a quite inefficient hCA IV activator (K(A) of 52 microM). d-Phe showed good hCA II activatory properties (K(A) of 35 nM), being a moderate hCA VA, VII, and XIV (K(A)s of 4.6-9.7 microM) and a weak hCA I and IV activator (K(A)s of 63-86 microM). X-ray crystallography of the hCA II-l-Phe/d-Phe adducts showed the activators to be anchored at the entrance of the active site, participating in numerous bonds and hydrophobic interactions with amino acid residues His64, Thr200, Trp5, and Pro201. This is the first study showing different binding modes of stereoisomeric activators within the hCA II active site, with consequences for overall proton transfer processes (rate-determining for the catalytic cycle). It also points out differences of activation efficiency between various isozymes with structurally related activators, exploitable for designing alternative proton transfer pathways. CA activators may lead to the design of pharmacologically useful derivatives for the enhancement of synaptic efficacy, which may represent a conceptually new approach for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, aging, and other conditions in which spatial learning and memory therapy must be enhanced. As the blood and brain concentrations of l-Phe are quite variable (30-73 microM), activity of some brain CAs may strongly be influenced by the level of activator(s) present in such tissues.

Taking a positive spin: preserved initiative and performance of everyday activities across mild Alzheimer's, vascular and mixed dementia.

PubMed

Giebel, Clarissa M; Burns, Alistair; Challis, David

2017-09-01

The literature commonly evaluates those daily activities which are impaired in dementia. However, in the mild stages, people with dementia (PwD) are still able to initiate and perform many of those tasks. With a lack of research exploring variations between different dementia diagnoses, this study sought to investigate those daily activities with modest impairments in the mild stages and how these compare between Alzheimer's disease (AD), vascular dementia (VaD) and mixed dementia. Staff from memory assessment services from nine National Health Service trusts across England identified and approached informal carers of people with mild dementia. Carers completed the newly revised Interview for Deteriorations in Daily Living Activities in Dementia 2 assessing the PwD's initiative and performance of instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs). Data were analysed using analysis of variance and Chi-square tests to compare the maintenance of IADL functioning across AD, VaD, and mixed dementia. A total of 160 carers returned the Interview for Deteriorations in Daily Living Activities in Dementia 2, of which 109, 21, and 30 cared for someone with AD, VaD, and mixed dementia, respectively. There were significant variations across subtypes, with AD showing better preserved initiative and performance than VaD for several IADLs. Overall, PwD showed greater preservation of performance than initiative, with tasks such as preparing a hot drink and dressing being best maintained. Findings can help classify dementia better into subtypes in order to receive bespoke support. It suggests that interventions should primarily address initiative to improve overall functioning. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

The linker connecting the two kringles plays a key role in prothrombin activation

PubMed Central

Pozzi, Nicola; Chen, Zhiwei; Pelc, Leslie A.; Shropshire, Daniel B.; Di Cera, Enrico

2014-01-01

The zymogen prothrombin is proteolytically converted by factor Xa to the active protease thrombin in a reaction that is accelerated >3,000-fold by cofactor Va. This physiologically important effect is paradigmatic of analogous cofactor-dependent reactions in the coagulation and complement cascades, but its structural determinants remain poorly understood. Prothrombin has three linkers connecting the N-terminal Gla domain to kringle-1 (Lnk1), the two kringles (Lnk2), and kringle-2 to the C-terminal protease domain (Lnk3). Recent developments indicate that the linkers, and particularly Lnk2, confer on the zymogen significant flexibility in solution and enable prothrombin to sample alternative conformations. The role of this flexibility in the context of prothrombin activation was tested with several deletions. Removal of Lnk2 in almost its entirety (ProTΔ146–167) drastically reduces the enhancement of thrombin generation by cofactor Va from >3,000-fold to 60-fold because of a significant increase in the rate of activation in the absence of cofactor. Deletion of Lnk2 mimics the action of cofactor Va and offers insights into how prothrombin is activated at the molecular level. The crystal structure of ProTΔ146–167 reveals a contorted architecture where the domains are not vertically stacked, kringle-1 comes within 9 Å of the protease domain, and the Gla-domain primed for membrane binding comes in contact with kringle-2. These findings broaden our molecular understanding of a key reaction of the blood coagulation cascade where cofactor Va enhances activation of prothrombin by factor Xa by compressing Lnk2 and morphing prothrombin into a conformation similar to the structure of ProTΔ146–167. PMID:24821807

History of the Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement

DTIC Science & Technology

2002-06-01

reflect executed Voluntary Enrollment Contracts (VEC) for VISA Stages I, II, and III to include basic activation procedures; DOD annual minimums for...provisions; and on-the-shelf basic agreements (such as VISA Intermodal Contingency Contracts (VICC) for Stages I, II, and III). The anticipated...insufficient Program incentives are revised annually, but the basic tenets remain in place. Activation, capacity required to commit and carrier risk clauses

Co-Activity during Maximum Voluntary Contraction: A Study of Four Lower-Extremity Muscles in Children with and without Cerebral Palsy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tedroff, Kristina; Knutson, Loretta M.; Soderberg, Gary L.

2008-01-01

This study was designed to determine whether children with cerebral palsy (CP) showed more co-activity than comparison children in non-prime mover muscles with regard to the prime mover during maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) of four lower-extremity muscles. Fourteen children with spastic diplegic CP (10 males, four females; age…

16 CFR 1031.7 - Commission support of voluntary standards activities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

...) Providing epidemiological and health science information and explanations of hazards for consumer products... or subsidizing technical assistance, including research, health science data, and engineering support.... (5) Providing assistance on methods of disseminating information and education about the voluntary...

16 CFR 1031.7 - Commission support of voluntary standards activities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

...) Providing epidemiological and health science information and explanations of hazards for consumer products... or subsidizing technical assistance, including research, health science data, and engineering support.... (5) Providing assistance on methods of disseminating information and education about the voluntary...

16 CFR 1031.7 - Commission support of voluntary standards activities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

...) Providing epidemiological and health science information and explanations of hazards for consumer products... or subsidizing technical assistance, including research, health science data, and engineering support.... (5) Providing assistance on methods of disseminating information and education about the voluntary...

16 CFR 1031.7 - Commission support of voluntary standards activities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

...) Providing epidemiological and health science information and explanations of hazards for consumer products... or subsidizing technical assistance, including research, health science data, and engineering support.... (5) Providing assistance on methods of disseminating information and education about the voluntary...

Administrative Inservice and Theories of Groups.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wimpelberg, Robert K.

Voluntary organizations providing inservice activities for principals are the newest in the administrative development field. This paper explores those organizations' prospects, particularly the voluntary, administrator-directed "principals' center," and borrows its analytical framework from theories of group formation. The Principals' Center in…

77 FR 72410 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-12-05

... for OMB Review; Comment Request; Unemployment Insurance Title XII Advances and Voluntary Repayment..., ``Unemployment Insurance Title XII Advances and Voluntary Repayment Process,'' to the Office of Management and... submission of responses. Agency: DOL-ETA. [[Page 72411

Knee flexion with quadriceps cocontraction: A new therapeutic exercise for the early stage of ACL rehabilitation.

PubMed

Biscarini, Andrea; Contemori, Samuele; Busti, Daniele; Botti, Fabio M; Pettorossi, Vito E

2016-12-08

Quadriceps strengthening exercises designed for the early phase of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rehabilitation should limit the anterior tibial translation developed by quadriceps contraction near full knee extension, in order to avoid excessive strain on the healing tissue. We hypothesize that knee-flexion exercises with simultaneous voluntary contraction of quadriceps (voluntary quadriceps cocontraction) can yield considerable levels of quadriceps activation while preventing the tibia from translating forward relative to the femur. Electromyographic activity in quadriceps and hamstring muscles was measured in 20 healthy males during isometric knee-flexion exercises executed near full knee extension with maximal voluntary effort of quadriceps cocontraction and external resistance (R) ranging from 0% to 60% of the 1-repetition maximum (1RM). Biomechanical modeling was applied to derive the shear (anterior/posterior) tibiofemoral force developed in each exercise condition. Isometric knee-flexion exercises with small external resistance (R=10% 1RM) and maximal voluntary effort of quadriceps cocontraction yielded a net posterior (ACL-unloading) tibial pull (P=0.005) and levels of activation of 32%, 50%, and 45% of maximum voluntary isometric contraction, for the rectus femoris, vastus medialis, and vastus lateralis, respectively. This exercise might potentially rank as one of the most appropriate quadriceps strengthening interventions in the early phase of ACL rehabilitation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Outcome of 5-Year Treatment of Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration With Intravitreal Anti-VEGF Using "Treat and Extend" Regimen.

PubMed

Jaki Mekjavic, Polona; Zaletel Benda, Polona

2018-01-01

The aim of this study is twofold. First , to evaluate the long-term outcome of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) treatment in a clinical setting using the "treat-and-extend regimen" (TER) in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). Second , to determine the proportion of patients treated with anti-VEGF with good visual acuity (VA), i.e., vision sufficient to maintain a high level of independence. We conducted a single center retrospective review of patients with treatment-naive nAMD who were treated with anti-VEGF. Patients were treated with anti-VEGF intravitreal injections according to the TER. Patients started treatment with monthly injections of either bevacizumab (1.25 mg/0.05 mL) or ranibizumab (0.5 mg/0.05 mL) until there were no signs present of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) activity. CNV activity was determined from fundus examination and SD-OCT imaging. Follow-up administration of intravitreal injections was extended by 2-week intervals, up to a total of 14 weeks, provided no signs of CNV activity were detected. In some patients, the first treatment was replaced with aflibercept (2 mg/0.05 mL). On the basis of the inclusion criterion for the study, that patients had to be treated for 5 years, a total of 101 patients were included in the study. In all patients, one eye was treated for a 5-year period, and thus we studied 101 eyes. Best corrected VA was analyzed at baseline and each year during the 5-year follow-up. VA improved initially after year 1 of the treatment. VA decreased in the subsequent 4 years of treatment, but remained significantly higher from year 1 to year 3 of the treatment compared to baseline values. Patients with good VA followed a similar trend: the proportion increased in the first year, and thereafter gradually decreased during the course of the 5-year follow up. At year 5, the number of patients with good VA decreased to baseline values. TER with anti-VEGF for nAMD treatment prevents long-term severe visual loss in real-world setting and maintains patients' VA at levels sufficient to ensure independence.

Ankle voluntary movement enhancement following robotic-assisted locomotor training in spinal cord injury.

PubMed

Varoqui, Deborah; Niu, Xun; Mirbagheri, Mehdi M

2014-03-31

In incomplete spinal cord injury (iSCI), sensorimotor impairments result in severe limitations to ambulation. To improve walking capacity, physical therapies using robotic-assisted locomotor devices, such as the Lokomat, have been developed. Following locomotor training, an improvement in gait capabilities-characterized by increases in the over-ground walking speed and endurance-is generally observed in patients. To better understand the mechanisms underlying these improvements, we studied the effects of Lokomat training on impaired ankle voluntary movement, known to be an important limiting factor in gait for iSCI patients. Fifteen chronic iSCI subjects performed twelve 1-hour sessions of Lokomat training over the course of a month. The voluntary movement was qualified by measuring active range of motion, maximal velocity peak and trajectory smoothness for the spastic ankle during a movement from full plantar-flexion (PF) to full dorsi-flexion (DF) at the patient's maximum speed. Dorsi- and plantar-flexor muscle strength was quantified by isometric maximal voluntary contraction (MVC). Clinical assessments were also performed using the Timed Up and Go (TUG), the 10-meter walk (10MWT) and the 6-minute walk (6MWT) tests. All evaluations were performed both before and after the training and were compared to a control group of fifteen iSCI patients. After the Lokomat training, the active range of motion, the maximal velocity, and the movement smoothness were significantly improved in the voluntary movement. Patients also exhibited an improvement in the MVC for their ankle dorsi- and plantar-flexor muscles. In terms of functional activity, we observed an enhancement in the mobility (TUG) and the over-ground gait velocity (10MWT) with training. Correlation tests indicated a significant relationship between ankle voluntary movement performance and the walking clinical assessments. The improvements of the kinematic and kinetic parameters of the ankle voluntary movement, and their correlation with the functional assessments, support the therapeutic effect of robotic-assisted locomotor training on motor impairment in chronic iSCI.

78 FR 6849 - Agency Information Collection (eBenefits Portal) Activity under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-01-31

... for a single sign-on credential that will ultimately be shared by other VA and DoD portals. The e...: Comments must be submitted on or before March 4, 2013. ADDRESSES: Submit written comments on the collection..., a joint project between the VA and DoD, is intended to serve as a single point of entry for benefits...

76 FR 43616 - Procedures for Implementing the National Environmental Policy Act

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-07-21

... Studies. 4. NASA HQ 09/23/2009 ARRA Implementation of Venture-Class Mission, HQ ID-1095. 5. LaRC, VA 11/20.../2009 Develop Air Traffic Management Concepts. 5. NASA HQ 12/23/2009 ARRA-Funded Activities (HQ ID-1119... Composition, Cloud, Climate Coupling (TC-4). 3. WFF, VA 03/28/2008 ARCTAS Mission. The third proposed CatEx...

77 FR 68151 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request: Main Fan...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-11-15

... for OMB Review; Comment Request: Main Fan Operation and Inspection (I-A, II-A, III, and V-A Mines) ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: The Department of Labor (DOL) is submitting the Mine Safety and Health... (I-A, II-A, III, and V-A Mines),'' to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and...

Active Plasmonics, Option 3 Report

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-03-31

Operations and Reports (0704-0188), 1215 Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite 1204, Arlington, VA 22202- 4302. Respondents should be aware that notwithstanding...Research Arlington, VA 22203 11. SPONSOR/MONITOR’S REPORT Dr. Gernot S. Pomrenke AFOSR/NE (703) 696-8426 NUMBER(S) Gernot.Pomrenke... Moroz , A, et al., JOURNAL OF APPLIED PHYSICS 103 Article Number: 123105 (2008). 4. Title: Loss mechanisms of surface plasmon polaritons on gold

Formation of a tyrosine adduct involved in lignin degradation by Trametopsis cervina lignin peroxidase: a novel peroxidase activation mechanism

Treesearch

Yuta Miki; Rebecca Pogni; Sandra Acebes; Fatima Lucas; Elena Fernandez-Fueyo; Maria Camilla Baratto; Maria I. Fernandez; Vivian De Los Rios; Francisco J. Ruiz-duenas; Adalgisa Sinicropi; Riccardo Basosi; Kenneth E. Hammel; Victor Guallar; Angel T. Martinez

2013-01-01

LiP (lignin peroxidase) from Trametopsis cervina has an exposed catalytic tyrosine residue (Tyr181) instead of the tryptophan conserved in other lignin-degrading peroxidases. Pristine LiP showed a lag period in VA (veratryl alcohol) oxidation. However, VA-LiP (LiP after treatment with H2O2...

Health-care district management information system plan: Review of operations analysis activities during calendar year 1975 and plan for continued research and analysis activities

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nielson, G. J.; Stevenson, W. G.

1976-01-01

Operations research activities developed to identify the information required to manage both the efficiency and effectiveness of the Veterans Administration (VA) health services as these services relate to individual patient care are reported. The clinical concerns and management functions that determine this information requirement are discussed conceptually. Investigations of existing VA data for useful management information are recorded, and a diagnostic index is provided. The age-specific characteristics of diseases and lengths of stay are explored, and recommendations for future analysis activities are articulated. The effect of the introduction of new technology to health care is also discussed.

Effectiveness of the Vital Aging program to promote active aging in Mexican older adults

PubMed Central

Mendoza-Ruvalcaba, Neyda Ma; Fernández-Ballesteros, Rocío

2016-01-01

Introduction Aging is not only a population phenomenon but also an experience and an individual reality. Vital Aging® is a program that considers active aging as the lifelong adaptation process of maximizing health and independence, physical and cognitive functioning, positive affect regulation and control, and social engagement. Through its different versions and editions, it has demonstrated being an effective program to promote active aging. The aim of this study is to determine the effectiveness of the “face-to-face” and “combined” versions of the program to promote active aging in Mexican older adults trial. Methods Seventy-six older adults aged 60 years and over participated in a quasi-experimental study and were recruited in a senior center to participate in the two experimental conditions: Vital Aging face-to-face (VA-FF) (n=35) and Vital Aging combined (VA-C; multimedia/face-to-face) (n=15), and the remaining 26 adults were assigned to a control group. Pretest and posttest assessments were performed after the theoretical–practical intervention. Mean differences and size effects were calculated for estimating the effect of the program. Results At the end of the study, participants showed improvements in the active aging outcome measures. Positive effects were observed in the frequency of intellectual, cultural – artistic, and social activities, perceptions of aging, satisfaction with social relationships, and self-efficacy for aging. Additionally, those who participated in VA-FF showed better memory performance, meta-memory, and a trend to report less memory problems, while older persons in VA-C showed a trend to have better life satisfaction. No effects were observed in physical activity, frequency of social relationships, and subjective health. Conclusion Findings show that the Vital Aging program in face-to-face and combined versions encourages active aging in Mexican older persons. These results are in general similar to those found in editions performed in Spain, revealing its consistency as a cross-cultural practical initiative for promoting active aging. PMID:27881913

Effectiveness of the Vital Aging program to promote active aging in Mexican older adults.

PubMed

Mendoza-Ruvalcaba, Neyda Ma; Fernández-Ballesteros, Rocío

2016-01-01

Aging is not only a population phenomenon but also an experience and an individual reality. Vital Aging ® is a program that considers active aging as the lifelong adaptation process of maximizing health and independence, physical and cognitive functioning, positive affect regulation and control, and social engagement. Through its different versions and editions, it has demonstrated being an effective program to promote active aging. The aim of this study is to determine the effectiveness of the "face-to-face" and "combined" versions of the program to promote active aging in Mexican older adults trial. Seventy-six older adults aged 60 years and over participated in a quasi-experimental study and were recruited in a senior center to participate in the two experimental conditions: Vital Aging face-to-face (VA-FF) (n=35) and Vital Aging combined (VA-C; multimedia/face-to-face) (n=15), and the remaining 26 adults were assigned to a control group. Pretest and posttest assessments were performed after the theoretical-practical intervention. Mean differences and size effects were calculated for estimating the effect of the program. At the end of the study, participants showed improvements in the active aging outcome measures. Positive effects were observed in the frequency of intellectual, cultural - artistic, and social activities, perceptions of aging, satisfaction with social relationships, and self-efficacy for aging. Additionally, those who participated in VA-FF showed better memory performance, meta-memory, and a trend to report less memory problems, while older persons in VA-C showed a trend to have better life satisfaction. No effects were observed in physical activity, frequency of social relationships, and subjective health. Findings show that the Vital Aging program in face-to-face and combined versions encourages active aging in Mexican older persons. These results are in general similar to those found in editions performed in Spain, revealing its consistency as a cross-cultural practical initiative for promoting active aging.

Pneumatic Displacement with Perfluoropropane Gas and Intravitreal Tissue Plasminogen Activator for Subretinal Subfoveal Hemorrhage after Focal Laser Photocoagulation in Central Serous Chorioretinopathy

PubMed Central

Espinoza, Juan V.; Lasave, Andres F.; Savino-Zari, Dario; Arevalo, Fernando A.

2014-01-01

Objective. To report the visual and anatomic outcomes of pneumatic displacement with perfluoropropane (C3F8) gas and intravitreal tissue plasminogen activator (IVTPA) for subretinal subfoveal hemorrhage after focal laser photocoagulation in central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR). Method. Interventional, retrospective case report of one eye (one patient). Outcome measures included visual acuity (VA), central macular thickness (CMT), and size of the lesion at two weeks of followup. Fluorescein angiography (FA) and optical coherent tomography (OCT) were used to measure anatomic outcomes. Results. A 35-year-old man with history of chronic CSCR received focal laser photocoagulation in the right eye two days before presentation. At initial examination, VA was 20/200 (ETDRS chart), CMT was 398 μ, and a subretinal subfoveal hemorrhage was seen. Tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) at a dose of 25 µg/0.1 mL was injected intravitreally before intravitreal C3F8 injection, and prone positioning was indicated postoperatively. At 24 hours, the hemorrhage had been displaced inferiorly and VA improved to 20/100. Two weeks later, VA improved to 20/80, CMT decreased to 225 μ, and the hemorrhage decreased without foveal involvement. Conclusions. The technique seems safe and effective in treating visually significant subretinal subfoveal hemorrhage. PMID:25485161

Voluntary control of intracortical oscillations for reconfiguration of network activity

PubMed Central

Corlier, Juliana; Valderrama, Mario; Navarrete, Miguel; Lehongre, Katia; Hasboun, Dominique; Adam, Claude; Belaid, Hayat; Clémenceau, Stéphane; Baulac, Michel; Charpier, Stéphane; Navarro, Vincent; Le Van Quyen, Michel

2016-01-01

Voluntary control of oscillatory activity represents a key target in the self-regulation of brain function. Using a real-time closed-loop paradigm and simultaneous macro- and micro-electrode recordings, we studied the effects of self-induced intracortical oscillatory activity (4–8 Hz) in seven neurosurgical patients. Subjects learned to robustly and specifically induce oscillations in the target frequency, confirmed by increased oscillatory event density. We have found that the session-to-session variability in performance was explained by the functional long-range decoupling of the target area suggesting a training-induced network reorganization. Downstream effects on more local activities included progressive cross-frequency-coupling with gamma oscillations (30–120 Hz), and the dynamic modulation of neuronal firing rates and spike timing, indicating an improved temporal coordination of local circuits. These findings suggest that effects of voluntary control of intracortical oscillations can be exploited to specifically target plasticity processes to reconfigure network activity, with a particular relevance for memory function or skill acquisition. PMID:27808225

Maximum voluntary joint torque as a function of joint angle and angular velocity: model development and application to the lower limb.

PubMed

Anderson, Dennis E; Madigan, Michael L; Nussbaum, Maury A

2007-01-01

Measurements of human strength can be important during analyses of physical activities. Such measurements have often taken the form of the maximum voluntary torque at a single joint angle and angular velocity. However, the available strength varies substantially with joint position and velocity. When examining dynamic activities, strength measurements should account for these variations. A model is presented of maximum voluntary joint torque as a function of joint angle and angular velocity. The model is based on well-known physiological relationships between muscle force and length and between muscle force and velocity and was tested by fitting it to maximum voluntary joint torque data from six different exertions in the lower limb. Isometric, concentric and eccentric maximum voluntary contractions were collected during hip extension, hip flexion, knee extension, knee flexion, ankle plantar flexion and dorsiflexion. Model parameters are reported for each of these exertion directions by gender and age group. This model provides an efficient method by which strength variations with joint angle and angular velocity may be incorporated into comparisons between joint torques calculated by inverse dynamics and the maximum available joint torques.

Priming voluntary autobiographical memories: Implications for the organisation of autobiographical memory and voluntary recall processes.

PubMed

Mace, John H; Clevinger, Amanda M

2013-01-01

The goal of this study was to show that voluntary autobiographical memories could be primed by the prior activation of autobiographical memories. Three experiments demonstrated voluntary memory priming with three different approaches. In Experiment 1 primed participants were asked to recall memories from their elementary school years. In a subsequent memory task primed participants were asked to recall memories from any time period, and they produced significantly more memories from their elementary school years than unprimed participants. In Experiment 2 primed participants were asked to recall what they were doing when they had heard various news events occurring between 1998 and 2005. Subsequently these participants produced significantly more memories from this time period than unprimed participants. In Experiment 3 primed participants were asked to recall memories from their teenage years. Subsequently these participants were able to recall more memories from ages 13-15 than unprimed participants, where both had only 1 second to produce a memory. We argue that the results support the notion that episodic memories can activate one another and that some of them are organised according to lifetime periods. We further argue that the results have implications for the reminiscence bump and voluntary recall of the past.

Vanillin as a modulator agent in SMART test: inhibition in the steps that precede N-methyl-N-nitrosourea-, N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea-, ethylmethanesulphonate- and bleomycin-genotoxicity.

PubMed

Sinigaglia, Marialva; Lehmann, Maurício; Baumgardt, Paula; do Amaral, Viviane Souza; Dihl, Rafael Rodrigues; Reguly, Maria Luíza; de Andrade, Heloísa Helena Rodrigues

2006-09-05

Vanillin (VA), the world's major flavoring compound used in food industry and confectionery products - that has antimutagenic and anticarcinogenic activity against a variety of mutagenic/carcinogenic agents - was tested for the interval between the formation of premutational lesion and it is finalization as a DNA lesion. The overall findings using co-treatment protocols in SMART test suggest that VA can lead to a significant protection against the general genotoxicity of ethylmethanesulphonate (EMS), N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU), N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU) and bleomycin sulphate (BLEO). Considering MNU, ENU and EMS the desmutagenic activity observed could result from VA-stimulation of detoxification, via induction of glutathione S-transferase. However, the protector effect related to BLEO could be attributed to its powerful scavenger ability, which has the potential to prevent oxidative damage induced by BLEO.

Grants for adaptive sports programs for disabled veterans and disabled members of the Armed Forces. Final rule.

PubMed

2015-05-04

This final rule amends Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) regulations to establish a new program to provide grants to eligible entities to provide adaptive sports activities to disabled veterans and disabled members of the Armed Forces. This rulemaking is necessary to implement a change in the law that authorizes VA to make grants to entities other than the United States Olympic Committee for adaptive sports programs. It establishes procedures for evaluating grant applications under this grant program, and otherwise administering the grant program. This rule implements section 5 of the VA Expiring Authorities Extension Act of 2013.

The current situation of voluntary vaccination and the factors influencing its coverage among children in Takatsuki, Japan: focus on Hib and pneumococcal vaccines.

PubMed

Tsuda, Yuko; Watanabe, Misuzu; Tanimoto, Yoshimi; Hayashida, Itsushi; Kusabiraki, Toshiyuki; Komiyama, Maki; Kono, Koichi

2015-03-01

This study aimed to understand the current scenario of voluntary vaccination and the factors influencing its coverage among 18-month-old children of Takatsuki City, Japan. Based on 1167 parents responses, we found that voluntary vaccination coverage rates were low when compared with routine vaccination rates. The children who were not the first born of the family and who had young and poorly educated parents were less likely to receive voluntary vaccination. Japanese government-supported vaccines, such as Haemophilus influenzae type b and pneumococcal vaccine, had a higher coverage than the vaccines for which parents had to bear the entire vaccination cost. Furthermore, it was found that mass communication media and family pediatricians were effective means to disseminate voluntary vaccination-related information. We envisage that an active participation of medical professionals, easy access to vaccinations, and mass awareness programs will increase voluntary vaccination coverage in Takatsuki. © 2013 APJPH.

Persistence of an intact endometrial matrix and vessels structure in women exposed to VA-2914, a selective progesterone receptor modulator.

PubMed

Ravet, S; Munaut, C; Blacher, S; Brichant, G; Labied, S; Beliard, A; Chabbert-Buffet, N; Bouchard, P; Foidart, J-M; Pintiaux, A

2008-11-01

VA-2914 is a selective progesterone receptor modulator with potential contraceptive activity that induces amenorrhea, whereas progestins cause endometrial spotting and bleeding. This abnormal bleeding due to progestins is a consequence of focal stromal proteolysis by an increase in naked vessel size and density. Our objective was to quantify the effects of VA-2914 on endometrial vascularization, fibrillar matrix, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A expression in endometrial biopsies from 41 women before and after 12 wk daily treatment with a placebo, or 2.5, 5, or 10 mg VA-2914. Collagen fibrillar network was stained by silver impregnation. Vessel area, density, and structure were quantified with a computer-assisted image analysis system after double immunostaining using an anti-von Willebrand factor (endothelial cells) and an anti-alpha smooth muscle actin (vascular smooth muscle cells) marker antibody. VEGF-A mRNAs were quantified by RT-PCR and localized by immunohistochemistry. The endometrial vessels, collagen network, and mRNA levels of VEGF-A were identical during the luteal phase at baseline and in VA-2914 treated women. VEGF-A distribution was unchanged. VA-2914 does not alter the endometrial matrix and cells, and does not modify the endometrial vessel morphology as compared with baseline biopsies.

Reduced Mortality Among Department of Veterans Affairs Patients With Schizophrenia or Bipolar Disorder Lost to Follow-up and Engaged in Active Outreach to Return for Care

PubMed Central

Kilbourne, Amy M.; Blow, Frederic C.; Pierce, John R.; Winkel, Bernard M.; Huycke, Edward; Langberg, Robert; Lyle, David; Phillips, Yancy; Visnic, Stephanie

2012-01-01

Objectives. We determined whether contacting Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorders (serious mental illness [SMI]) who had dropped out of care for prolonged periods resulted in reengagement with VA services and decreased mortality. Methods. We developed a list of patients with SMI who were last treated in fiscal years 2005 to 2006, and were lost to follow-up care for at least 1 year. VA medical centers used our list to contact patients and schedule appointments. Additional VA administrative data on patient utilization and mortality through May 2009 were analyzed. Results. About 72% (2375 of 3306) of the patients who VA staff attempted to contact returned for VA care. The mortality rate of returning patients was significantly lower than that for patients not returning (0.5% vs 3.9%; adjusted odds ratio = 5.8; P < .001), after demographic and clinical factors were controlled. Conclusions. The mortality rate for returning patients with SMI was almost 6 times less than for those who did not return for medical care. Proactive outreach might result in patients returning to care and should be implemented to reengage this vulnerable group. PMID:22390607

Assessment of brain activity during voluntary anal sphincter contraction: Comparative study in women with and without fecal incontinence.

PubMed

Parés, D; Martínez-Vilalta, M; Ortiz, H; Soriano-Mas, C; Maestre-Gonzalez, Y; Pujol, J; Grande, L

2018-04-14

Voluntary anal sphincter function is driven by an extended network of brain structures, most of which are still unknown. Disturbances in this function may cause fecal incontinence. The aim of this study was to characterize the cerebral areas involved in voluntary contraction of the anorectal sphincter in healthy women and in a group of patients with fecal incontinence by using a standardized functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) protocol. This comparative study included 12 healthy women (mean age 53.17 ± 4.93 years) and 12 women with fecal incontinence (56.25 ± 6.94 years). An MRI-compatible anal manometer was used to register voluntary external anal sphincter contraction. During brain fMRI imaging, participants were cued to perform 10-s series of self-paced anal sphincter contractions at an approximate rate of 1 Hz. Brain structures linked to anal sphincter contractions were mapped and the findings were compared between the 2 study groups. There were no differences in the evoked brain activity between the 2 groups. In healthy women, group fMRI analysis revealed significant activations in medial primary motor cortices, supplementary motor area, bilateral putamen, and cerebellum, as well as in the supramarginal gyrus and visual areas. In patients with fecal incontinence, the activation pattern involved similar regions without significant differences with healthy women. This brain fMRI-anorectal protocol was able to map the brain regions linked to voluntary anal sphincter function in healthy and women with fecal incontinence. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Use of in vitro assays to assess the potential cytotoxic, genotoxic and antigenotoxic effects of vanillic and cinnamic acid.

PubMed

Taner, Gökçe; Özkan Vardar, Deniz; Aydin, Sevtap; Aytaç, Zeki; Başaran, Ahmet; Başaran, Nurşen

2017-04-01

Vanillic acid (VA) found in vanilla and cinnamic acid (CA) the precursor of flavonoids and found in cinnamon oil, are natural plant phenolic acids which are secondary aromatic plant products suggested to possess many physiological and pharmacological functions. In vitro and in vivo experiments have shown that phenolic acids exhibit powerful effects on biological responses by scavenging free radicals and eliciting antioxidant capacity. In the present study, we investigated the antioxidant capacity of VA and CA by the trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) assay, cytotoxicity by neutral red uptake (NRU) assay in Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells and also the genotoxic and antigenotoxic effects of these phenolic acids using the cytokinesis-blocked micronucleus (CBMN) and the alkaline comet assays in human peripheral blood lymphocytes. At all tested concentrations, VA (0.17-67.2 μg/ml) showed antioxidant activity but CA (0.15-59.2 μg/ml) did not show antioxidant activity against 2,2-azino-bis (3-ethylbenz-thiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS). VA (0.84, 4.2, 8.4, 16.8, 84 and 168 μg/ml) and CA (0.74, 3.7, 7.4, 14.8, 74, 148 μg/ml) did not have cytotoxic and genotoxic effects alone at the studied concentrations as compared with the controls. Both VA and CA seem to decrease DNA damage induced by H 2 O 2 in human lymphocytes.

Discrete prepotential as an indicator of successful ablation in patients with coronary cusp ventricular arrhythmia.

PubMed

Hachiya, Hitoshi; Yamauchi, Yasuteru; Iesaka, Yoshito; Yagishita, Atsuhiko; Sasaki, Takeshi; Higuchi, Koji; Kawabata, Mihoko; Sugiyama, Koji; Tanaka, Yasuaki; Kusa, Shigeki; Nakamura, Hiroaki; Miyazaki, Shinsuke; Taniguchi, Hiroshi; Isobe, Mitsuaki; Hirao, Kenzo

2013-10-01

Although coronary cusp (CC) ventricular arrhythmia (VA) can be treated by catheter ablation, reliable indicators of successful ablation sites have not been fully identified. This study comprised 392 patients undergoing radiofrequency catheter ablation for outflow tract-VA at 3 institutions from January 2007 to August 2012. The successful ablation site was on the left CC or right CC in 35 (8.9%) of the 392 patients. In 9 (26%) of these 35 patients, a discrete prepotential was recognized, 5 of whom had left CC-VAs and 4 of whom had right CC-VAs. Radiofrequency catheter ablation was successful at the site of the prepotential in all 9 of these patients. The duration of the isoelectric line between the end of the discrete prepotential and the onset of the ventricular electrogram was 27±13 ms. The time from onset of the discrete prepotential at the successful ablation site on the CC to the QRS onset (activation time) was 69±20 ms (range, 50-98 ms). Pace mapping was graded as excellent at the successful ablation site in only 1 patient. No discrete prepotential was recorded in any successful right outflow tract-VA ablation case in this study. A discrete prepotential was seen in 9 (26%) of 35 patients with CC-VA. In left and right CC-VA, the site of a discrete prepotential with ≥50 ms activation time may indicate a successful ablation site.

Influence of Motor Activity on the Development of Voluntary Attention in Children Aged 6-7 Years in Rural and Urban Micro-Community

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zakharova, Larisa M.; Zakharova, Victoria

2018-01-01

The article is devoted to the problem of the influence of physical activity on the development of voluntary attention in children aged 5-7, which largely determines the success of schooling. The studies conducted in different countries prove the existence of such a correlation, which, at the same time, is not always unambiguous. We studied the…

Business intelligence from social media: a study from the VAST Box Office Challenge.

PubMed

Lu, Yafeng; Wang, Feng; Maciejewski, Ross

2014-01-01

With over 16 million tweets per hour, 600 new blog posts per minute, and 400 million active users on Facebook, businesses have begun searching for ways to turn real-time consumer-based posts into actionable intelligence. The goal is to extract information from this noisy, unstructured data and use it for trend analysis and prediction. Current practices support the idea that visual analytics (VA) can help enable the effective analysis of such data. However, empirical evidence demonstrating the effectiveness of a VA solution is still lacking. A proposed VA toolkit extracts data from Bitly and Twitter to predict movie revenue and ratings. Results from the 2013 VAST Box Office Challenge demonstrate the benefit of an interactive environment for predictive analysis, compared to a purely statistical modeling approach. The VA approach used by the toolkit is generalizable to other domains involving social media data, such as sales forecasting and advertisement analysis.

Waves from the Sun: to the 100th anniversary of V.A. Troitskaya's birth

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guglielmi, Anatol; Potapov, Alexander

2017-09-01

It has been one hundred years since the birth of the outstanding scientist Professor V.A. Troitskaya. Her remarkable achievements in solar-terrestrial physics are widely known. For many years, Valeria A. Troitskaya was the President of the International Association of Geomagnetism and Aeronomy. This article deals with only one aspect of the multifaceted creative activity of V.A. Troitskaya. It relates to the problem of sources of ultra-low frequency (ULF) electromagnetic oscillations and waves outside Earth’s magnetosphere. We were fortunate to work under the leadership of V.A. Troitskaya on this problem. In this paper, we briefly describe the history from the emergence of the idea of the extramagnetospheric origin of dayside permanent ULF oscillations in the late 1960s to the modern quest made by ground and satellite means for ULF waves excited by solar surface oscillations propagating in the interplanetary medium and reaching Earth.

Kinetic Monte Carlo study of vinyl acetate synthesis from ethylene acetoxylation on Pd(100) and Pd/Au(100)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Yanping; Dong, Xiuqin; Yu, Yingzhe; Zhang, Minhua

2017-11-01

On the basis of the activation barriers and reaction energies from DFT calculations, kinetic Monte Carlo (kMC) simulations of vinyl acetate (VA) synthesis from ethylene acetoxylation on Pd(100) and Pd/Au(100) were carried out. Through kMC simulation, it was found that VA synthesis from ethylene acetoxylation proceeds via Moiseev mechanism on both Pd(100) and Pd/Au(100). The addition of Au into Pd can suppress ethylene dehydrogenation while it can promote acetic acid dehydrogenation, which can eventually facilitate VA synthesis as a whole. The addition of Au into Pd can further improve the conversion and selectivity of VA synthesis from ethylene acetoxylation. When the reaction network is analyzed, besides the energetics of each elementary reaction, the surface coverage of each species and the occupancy of the surface sites on the catalyst should also be taken into consideration.

Muscle force compensation among synergistic muscles after fatigue of a single muscle.

PubMed

Stutzig, Norman; Siebert, Tobias

2015-08-01

The aim of this study was to examine control strategies among synergistic muscles after fatigue of a single muscle. It was hypothesized that the compensating mechanism is specific for each fatigued muscle. The soleus (SOL), gastrocnemius lateralis (GL) and medialis (GM) were fatigued in separate sessions on different days. In each experiment, subjects (n = 11) performed maximal voluntary contractions prior to and after fatiguing a single muscle (SOL, GL or GM) while the voluntary muscle activity and torque were measured. Additionally, the maximal single twitch torque of the plantarflexors and the maximal spinal reflex activity (H-reflex) of the SOL, GL and GM were determined. Fatigue was evoked using neuromuscular stimulation. Following fatigue the single twitch torque decreased by -20.1%, -19.5%, and -23.0% when the SOL, GL, or GM, have been fatigued. The maximal voluntary torque did not decrease in any session but the synergistic voluntary muscle activity increased significantly. Moreover, we found no alterations in spinal reflex activity. It is concluded that synergistic muscles compensate each other. Furthermore, it seems that self-compensating mechanism of the fatigued muscles occurred additionally. The force compensation does not depend on the function of the fatigued muscle. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Voluntary wheel running produces resistance to inescapable stress-induced potentiation of morphine conditioned place preference.

PubMed

Rozeske, Robert R; Greenwood, Benjamin N; Fleshner, Monika; Watkins, Linda R; Maier, Steven F

2011-06-01

In rodents, exposure to acute inescapable, but not escapable, stress potentiates morphine conditioned place preference (CPP), an effect that is dependent upon hyperactivation of serotonin (5-HT) neurons in the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN). Six weeks of voluntary wheel running constrains activation of DRN 5-HT neurons during exposure to inescapable stress. Six weeks of voluntary wheel running before inescapable stress blocked stress-induced potentiation of morphine CPP. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Life support and euthanasia, a perspective on Shaw's new perspective.

PubMed

Busch, Jacob; Rodogno, Raffaele

2011-02-01

It has recently been suggested by Shaw (2007) that the distinction between voluntary active euthanasia, such as giving a patient a lethal overdose with the intention of ending that patient's life, and voluntary passive euthanasia, such as removing a patient from a ventilator, is much less obvious than is commonly acknowledged in the literature. This is argued by suggesting a new perspective that more accurately reflects the moral features of end-of-life situations. The argument is simply that if we consider the body of a mentally competent patient who wants to die, a kind of 'unwarranted' life support, then the distinction collapses. We argue that all Shaw has provided is a perspective that makes the conclusion that there is little distinction between voluntary active euthanasia and voluntary passive euthanasia only seemingly more palatable. In doing so he has yet to convince us that this perspective is superior to other perspectives and thus more accurately reflects the moral features of the situations pertaining to this issue.

Comparing the stress change characteristics and aftershock decay rate of the 2011 Mineral, VA, earthquake with similar earthquakes from a variety of tectonic settings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Walsh, L. S.; Montesi, L. G.; Sauber, J. M.; Watters, T. R.; Kim, W.; Martin, A. J.; Anderson, R.

2011-12-01

On August 23, 2011, the magnitude 5.8 Mineral, VA, earthquake rocked the U.S. national capital region (Washington, DC) drawing worldwide attention to the occurrence of intraplate earthquakes. Using regional Coulomb stress change, we evaluate to what extent slip on faults during the Mineral, VA, earthquake and its aftershocks may have increased stress on notable Cenozoic fault systems in the DC metropolitan area: the central Virginia seismic zone, the DC fault zone, and the Stafford fault system. Our Coulomb stress maps indicate that the transfer of stress from the Mineral, VA, mainshock was at least 500 times greater than that produced from the magnitude 3.4 Germantown, MD, earthquake that occurred northwest of DC on July 16, 2010. Overall, the Mineral, VA, earthquake appears to have loaded faults of optimum orientation in the DC metropolitan region, bringing them closer to failure. The distribution of aftershocks of the Mineral, VA, earthquake will be compared with Coulomb stress change maps. We further characterize the Mineral, VA, earthquake by comparing its aftershock decay rate with that of blind thrust earthquakes with similar magnitude, focal mechanism, and depth from a variety of tectonic settings. In particular, we compare aftershock decay relations of the Mineral, VA, earthquake with two well studied California reverse faulting events, the August 4, 1985 Kettleman Hills (Mw = 6.1) and October 1, 1987 Whittier Narrow (Mw = 5.9) earthquakes. Through these relations we test the hypothesis that aftershock duration is inversely proportional to fault stressing rate, suggesting that aftershocks in active tectonic margins may last only a few years while aftershocks in intraplate regions could endure for decades to a century.

Intramuscular Electrical Stimulation for Muscle Activation of the Tibialis Anterior After Surgical Repair: A Case Report.

PubMed

Hollis, Sharon; McClure, Philip

2017-12-01

Background Loss of voluntary activation of musculature can result in muscle weakness. External neuromuscular stimulation can be utilized to improve voluntary activation but is often poorly tolerated because of pain associated with required stimulus level. Intramuscular electrical stimulation requires much lower voltage and may be better tolerated, and therefore more effective at restoring voluntary muscle activation. Case Description A 71-year-old man sustained a rupture of the distal attachment of the tibialis anterior tendon. Thirty-two weeks after surgical repair, there was no palpable or visible tension development in the muscle belly or tendon. Dorsiflexion was dependent on toe extensors. Electrical stimulation applied via a dry needling placement in the muscle belly was utilized to induce an isometric contraction. Outcomes Five sessions of intramuscular electrical stimulation were delivered. By day 4 (second visit), the patient was able to dorsiflex without prominent use of the extensor hallucis longus. By day 6 (third visit), active-range-of-motion dorsiflexion with toes flexed increased 20° (-10° to 10°). Eighteen days after the initial treatment, the patient walked without his previous high-step gait pattern, and the tibialis anterior muscle test improved to withstanding moderate resistance (manual muscle test score, 4/5). Discussion The rapid change in muscle function observed suggests that intramuscular electrical stimulation may facilitate voluntary muscle activation. Level of Evidence Therapy, level 5. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2017;47(12):965-969. Epub 15 Oct 2017. doi:10.2519/jospt.2017.7368.

Control of robotic assistance using poststroke residual voluntary effort.

PubMed

Makowski, Nathaniel S; Knutson, Jayme S; Chae, John; Crago, Patrick E

2015-03-01

Poststroke hemiparesis limits the ability to reach, in part due to involuntary muscle co-activation (synergies). Robotic approaches are being developed for both therapeutic benefit and continuous assistance during activities of daily living. Robotic assistance may enable participants to exert less effort, thereby reducing expression of the abnormal co-activation patterns, which could allow participants to reach further. This study evaluated how well participants could perform a reaching task with robotic assistance that was either provided independent of effort in the vertical direction or in the sagittal plane in proportion to voluntary effort estimated from electromyograms (EMG) on the affected side. Participants who could not reach targets without assistance were enabled to reach further with assistance. Constant anti-gravity force assistance that was independent of voluntary effort did not reduce the quality of reach and enabled participants to exert less effort while maintaining different target locations. Force assistance that was proportional to voluntary effort on the affected side enabled participants to exert less effort and could be controlled to successfully reach targets, but participants had increased difficulty maintaining a stable position. These results suggest that residual effort on the affected side can produce an effective command signal for poststroke assistive devices.

Construction of an infectious cDNA clone of avian hepatitis E virus (avian HEV) recovered from a clinically healthy chicken in the United States and characterization of its pathogenicity in specific-pathogen-free chickens.

PubMed

Kwon, Hyuk Moo; LeRoith, Tanya; Pudupakam, R S; Pierson, F William; Huang, Yao-Wei; Dryman, Barbara A; Meng, Xiang-Jin

2011-01-27

A genetically distinct strain of avian hepatitis E virus (avian HEV-VA strain) was isolated from a healthy chicken in Virginia, and thus it is important to characterize and compare its pathogenicity with the prototype strain (avian HEV-prototype) isolated from a diseased chicken. Here we first constructed an infectious clone of the avian HEV-VA strain. Capped RNA transcripts from the avian HEV-VA clone were replication-competent after transfection of LMH chicken liver cells. Chickens inoculated intrahepatically with RNA transcripts of avian HEV-VA clone developed active infection as evidenced by fecal virus shedding, viremia, and seroconversion. To characterize the pathogenicity, RNA transcripts of both avian HEV-VA and avian HEV-prototype clones were intrahepatically inoculated into the livers of chickens. Avian HEV RNA was detected in feces, serum and bile samples from 10/10 avian HEV-VA-inoculated and 9/9 avian HEV-prototype-inoculated chickens although seroconversion occurred only in some chickens during the experimental period. The histopathological lesion scores were lower for avian HEV-VA group than avian HEV-prototype group in the liver at 3 and 5 weeks post-inoculation (wpi) and in the spleen at 3 wpi, although the differences were not statistically significant. The liver/body weight ratio, indicative of liver enlargement, of both avian HEV-VA and avian HEV-prototype groups were significantly higher than that of the control group at 5 wpi. Overall, the avian HEV-VA strain still induces histological liver lesions even though it was isolated from a healthy chicken. The results also showed that intrahepatic inoculation of chickens with RNA transcripts of avian HEV infectious clone may serve as an alternative for live virus in animal pathogenicity studies. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Neural responses to taxation and voluntary giving reveal motives for charitable donations.

PubMed

Harbaugh, William T; Mayr, Ulrich; Burghart, Daniel R

2007-06-15

Civil societies function because people pay taxes and make charitable contributions to provide public goods. One possible motive for charitable contributions, called "pure altruism," is satisfied by increases in the public good no matter the source or intent. Another possible motive, "warm glow," is only fulfilled by an individual's own voluntary donations. Consistent with pure altruism, we find that even mandatory, tax-like transfers to a charity elicit neural activity in areas linked to reward processing. Moreover, neural responses to the charity's financial gains predict voluntary giving. However, consistent with warm glow, neural activity further increases when people make transfers voluntarily. Both pure altruism and warm-glow motives appear to determine the hedonic consequences of financial transfers to the public good.

75 FR 31432 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission to OMB for Review and Approval; Comment...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-06-03

... Chemistry Council [ACC]), the Specialty Organics Chemical Manufacturers Association (SOCMA), and the... studies for existing chemical substances under sections 4, 6, and 8, and requests voluntary submission of such information under the Voluntary Children's Chemical Evaluation Program (VCCEP). EPA typically...

[The potential health benefits of philanthropy].

PubMed

Vaccaro, Antoine

2014-12-01

The act of donating or doing voluntary or charitable work has a positive effect on the giver's health. Numerous French and international studies have shown the benefits of a voluntary activity. It enables people to live better and longer, by favouring their physical, psychological, social and cognitive balance.

77 FR 72941 - Voluntary Education Programs

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-12-07

... education programs offered on a military installation at no cost to the individual Service TA programs. Sec... voluntary education and training of active duty Service members during their off-duty periods, each Military... training for which the Service member is enrolled. (B) When an institution's charges exceed the per...

41 CFR 60-250.23 - Medical examinations and inquiries.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... consistent with business necessity. The contractor may make inquiries into the ability of an employee to... voluntary medical examinations and activities, including voluntary medical histories, which are part of an... with business necessity. However, if certain criteria are used to screen out an applicant or applicants...

Unexpected factors affecting the excitability of human motoneurones in voluntary and stimulated contractions

PubMed Central

Khan, Serajul I.; Taylor, Janet L.

2016-01-01

Key points The output of human motoneurone pools decreases with fatiguing exercise, but the mechanisms involved are uncertain. We explored depression of recurrent motoneurone discharges (F‐waves) after sustained maximal voluntary contractions (MVCs).MVC depressed the size and frequency of F‐waves in a hand muscle but a submaximal contraction (at 50% MVC) did not.Surprisingly, activation of the motoneurones antidromically by stimulation of the ulnar nerve (at 20 or 40 Hz) did not depress F‐wave area or persistence.Furthermore, a sustained (3 min) MVC of a hand muscle depressed F‐waves in its antagonist but not in a remote hand muscle.Our findings suggest that depression of F‐waves after voluntary contractions is not simply due to repetitive activation of the motoneurones but requires descending voluntary drive.  Furthermore, this effect may depress nearby, but not distant, spinal motoneurone pools. Abstract There are major spinal changes induced by repetitive activity and fatigue that could contribute to ‘central’ fatigue but the mechanisms involved are poorly understood in humans. Here we confirmed that the recurrent motoneuronal discharge (F‐wave) is reduced during relaxation immediately after a sustained maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) of an intrinsic hand muscle (abductor digiti minimi, ADM) and explored the relationship between motoneurone firing and the depression of F‐waves in three ways. First, the depression (in both F‐wave area and F‐wave persistence) was present after a 10 s MVC (initial decrease 36.4 ± 19.1%; mean ± SD) but not after a submaximal voluntary contraction at 50% maximum. Second, to evoke motoneurone discharge without volitional effort, 10 s tetanic contractions were produced by supramaximal ulnar nerve stimulation at the elbow at physiological frequencies of 25 and 40 Hz. Surprisingly, neither produced depression of F‐waves in ADM to test supramaximal stimulation of the ulnar nerve at the wrist. Finally, a sustained MVC (3 min) of the antagonist to ADM (4th palmar interosseous) depressed F‐waves in the anatomically close ADM (20 ± 18.2%) but not in the more remote first dorsal interosseous on the radial side of the hand. We argue that depression of F‐waves after voluntary contractions may not be due to repetitive activation of the motoneurones but requires descending voluntary drive. Furthermore, this effect may depress nearby, but not distant, spinal motoneurone pools and it reveals potentially novel mechanisms controlling the output of human motoneurones. PMID:26940402

Unexpected factors affecting the excitability of human motoneurones in voluntary and stimulated contractions.

PubMed

Khan, Serajul I; Taylor, Janet L; Gandevia, Simon C

2016-05-15

The output of human motoneurone pools decreases with fatiguing exercise, but the mechanisms involved are uncertain. We explored depression of recurrent motoneurone discharges (F-waves) after sustained maximal voluntary contractions (MVCs). MVC depressed the size and frequency of F-waves in a hand muscle but a submaximal contraction (at 50% MVC) did not. Surprisingly, activation of the motoneurones antidromically by stimulation of the ulnar nerve (at 20 or 40 Hz) did not depress F-wave area or persistence. Furthermore, a sustained (3 min) MVC of a hand muscle depressed F-waves in its antagonist but not in a remote hand muscle. Our findings suggest that depression of F-waves after voluntary contractions is not simply due to repetitive activation of the motoneurones but requires descending voluntary drive.  Furthermore, this effect may depress nearby, but not distant, spinal motoneurone pools. There are major spinal changes induced by repetitive activity and fatigue that could contribute to 'central' fatigue but the mechanisms involved are poorly understood in humans. Here we confirmed that the recurrent motoneuronal discharge (F-wave) is reduced during relaxation immediately after a sustained maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) of an intrinsic hand muscle (abductor digiti minimi, ADM) and explored the relationship between motoneurone firing and the depression of F-waves in three ways. First, the depression (in both F-wave area and F-wave persistence) was present after a 10 s MVC (initial decrease 36.4 ± 19.1%; mean ± SD) but not after a submaximal voluntary contraction at 50% maximum. Second, to evoke motoneurone discharge without volitional effort, 10 s tetanic contractions were produced by supramaximal ulnar nerve stimulation at the elbow at physiological frequencies of 25 and 40 Hz. Surprisingly, neither produced depression of F-waves in ADM to test supramaximal stimulation of the ulnar nerve at the wrist. Finally, a sustained MVC (3 min) of the antagonist to ADM (4th palmar interosseous) depressed F-waves in the anatomically close ADM (20 ± 18.2%) but not in the more remote first dorsal interosseous on the radial side of the hand. We argue that depression of F-waves after voluntary contractions may not be due to repetitive activation of the motoneurones but requires descending voluntary drive. Furthermore, this effect may depress nearby, but not distant, spinal motoneurone pools and it reveals potentially novel mechanisms controlling the output of human motoneurones. © 2016 The Authors. The Journal of Physiology © 2016 The Physiological Society.

Outcomes of 3 hours part-time occlusion treatment combined with near activities among children with unilateral amblyopia.

PubMed

Alotaibi, Abdullah G; Fawazi, Samah M; Alenazy, Badriah R; Abu-Amero, Khaled K

2012-04-01

To evaluate the outcome of part-time occlusion therapy with or without near activities in monocular amblyopic patients. One hundred and thirty patients who prescribed daily occlusion therapy (part-time occlusion) were followed-up for a 12-week period. The study was carried out in the Pediatric Ophthalmology and Orthoptics Clinics of King Abdul-Aziz University Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia for the period from January to November 2010. Sixty-five patients were recommended to undertake the 3 hours of near visual activities (such as reading a book during patching) while the other 65 patients were not advised to do any near activity. Main outcome measures were best corrected visual acuity (VA) for both groups and line improvement. The total line of VA improved from baseline by an average of 6.7+/-2.37 line log MAR (logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution) units in the group of patching with near activities and by an average of 5.3+/- 2.04 line log MAR units in the group of patching without near activities. All type of amblyopia (strabismic, anisometropic, and mixed types of amblyopia) improved significantly after patching with near activities. Both moderate and severe amblyopia improved significantly in the group of near activities compared with the group without near activities. Performing near activities while patching in the treatment of anisometropic, stabismic, or combined amblyopia improves the VA outcome more than patching alone.

A case against Dutch euthanasia.

PubMed

Fenigsen, Richard

1989-01-01

The growing acceptance of voluntary active euthanasia by the Dutch is examined in relation to the plastic cards requesting active euthanasia carried by many people in The Netherlands, public opinion polls, and support by leading medical figures of the movement to legalize euthanasia. The author draws upon his experience as a hospital doctor to condemn the practice of active euthanasia, arguing that its voluntariness is often counterfeit and always questionable, that it is inseparable from overtly involuntary forms of euthanasia, and that its promise of sparing the sick person agony is false. "Voluntary" euthanasia also brings an ominous change in society because of the message it sends to the elderly and sick, the weak and the dependent; because the fallibility of medical judgments are inconsistent with the irreversibility of the act; and because the fallacious reasoning of the philosophy threatens to cause irreparable damage to the medical profession.

Phase and amplitude analysis in time-frequency space--application to voluntary finger movement.

PubMed

Ginter, J; Blinowska, K J; Kamiński, M; Durka, P J

2001-09-30

Two methods operating in time-frequency space were applied to analysis of EEG activity accompanying voluntary finger movements. The first one, based on matching pursuit approach provided high-resolution distributions of power in time-frequency space. The phenomena of event related desynchronization (ERD) and synchronization (ERS) were investigated without the need of band-pass filtering. Time evolution of mu- and beta-components was observed in a detailed way. The second method was based on a multichannel autoregressive model (MVAR) adapted for investigation of short-time changes in EEG signal. The direction and spectral content of the EEG activity propagation was estimated by means of short-time directed transfer function (SDTF). The evidence of 'cross-talk' between different areas of motor and sensory cortex was found. The earlier known phenomena, connected with voluntary movements, were confirmed and a new evidence concerning focal ERD/surround ERS and beta activity post-movement synchronization was found.

Effects of voluntary wheel running on satellite cells in the rat plantaris muscle.

PubMed

Kurosaka, Mitsutoshi; Naito, Hisashi; Ogura, Yuji; Kojima, Atsushi; Goto, Katsumasa; Katamoto, Shizuo

2009-01-01

This study investigated the effects of voluntary wheel running on satellite cells in the rat plantaris muscle. Seventeen 5-week-old male Wistar rats were assigned to a control (n = 5) or training (n = 12) group. Each rat in the training group ran voluntarily in a running-wheel cage for 8 weeks. After the training period, the animals were anesthetized, and the plantaris muscles were removed, weighed, and analyzed immunohistochemically and biochemically. Although there were no significant differences in muscle weight or fiber area between the groups, the numbers of satellite cells and myonuclei per muscle fiber, percentage of satellite cells, and citrate synthase activity were significantly higher in the training group compared with the control group (p < 0.05). The percentage of satellite cells was also positively correlated with distance run in the training group (r = 0.61, p < 0.05). Voluntary running can induce an increase in the number of satellite cells without changing the mean fiber area in the rat plantaris muscle; this increase in satellite cell content is a function of distance run. Key pointsThere is no study about the effect of voluntary running on satellite cells in the rat plantaris muscle.Voluntary running training causes an increase of citrate synthase activity in the rat plantaris muscle but does not affect muscle weight and mean fiber area in the rat plantaris muscle.Voluntary running can induce an increase in the number of satellite cells without hypertrophy of the rat plantaris muscle.

VA Vascular Injury Study (VAVIS): VA-DoD extremity injury outcomes collaboration.

PubMed

Shireman, Paula K; Rasmussen, Todd E; Jaramillo, Carlos A; Pugh, Mary Jo

2015-02-03

Limb injuries comprise 50-60% of U.S. Service member's casualties of wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Combat-related vascular injuries are present in 12% of this cohort, a rate 5 times higher than in prior wars. Improvements in medical and surgical trauma care, including initial in-theatre limb salvage approaches (IILS) have resulted in improved survival and fewer amputations, however, the long-term outcomes such as morbidity, functional decline, and risk for late amputation of salvaged limbs using current process of care have not been studied. The long-term care of these injured warfighters poses a significant challenge to the Department of Defense (DoD) and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The VA Vascular Injury Study (VAVIS): VA-DoD Extremity Injury Outcomes Collaborative, funded by the VA, Health Services Research and Development Service, is a longitudinal cohort study of Veterans with vascular extremity injuries. Enrollment will begin April, 2015 and continue for 3 years. Individuals with a validated extremity vascular injury in the Department of Defense Trauma Registry will be contacted and will complete a set of validated demographic, social, behavioral, and functional status measures during interview and online/ mailed survey. Primary outcome measures will: 1) Compare injury, demographic and geospatial characteristics of patients with IILS and identify late vascular surgery related limb complications and health care utilization in Veterans receiving VA vs. non-VA care, 2) Characterize the preventive services received by individuals with vascular repair and related outcomes, and 3) Describe patient-reported functional outcomes in Veterans with traumatic vascular limb injuries. This study will provide key information about the current process of care for Active Duty Service members and Veterans with polytrauma/vascular injuries at risk for persistent morbidity and late amputation. The results of this study will be the first step for clinicians in VA and military settings to generate evidence-based treatment and care approaches to these injuries. It will identify areas where rehabilitation medicine and vascular specialty care or telehealth options are needed to allow for better planning, resource utilization, and improved DoD-to-VA care transitions.

Access, Education and Policy Awareness: Predictors of Influenza Vaccine Acceptance Among VHA Healthcare Workers.

PubMed

Eaton, Jennifer Lipkowitz; Mohr, David C; McPhaul, Kathleen M; Kaslow, Richard A; Martinello, Richard A

2017-08-01

OBJECTIVE To identify predictors of influenza vaccine acceptance among VHA healthcare workers (HCWs), with emphasis on modifiable factors related to promotion campaigns. DESIGN Survey. SETTING National single-payer healthcare system with 140 hospitals and 321,000 HCWs. PARTICIPANTS National voluntary sample of HCWs in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) system. METHODS We invited a random sample of 5% of all VHA HCWs to participate. An 18-item intranet-based survey inquired about occupation, vaccination status, employer policy, and local campaign efforts. RESULTS The response rate was 17.4%. Of 2,502 initial respondents, 2,406 (96.2%) provided usable data. This sample includes respondents from all 140 VA hospitals. Self-reported influenza vaccination rates were highest among physicians (95.6%) and licensed independent providers (88.3%). Nonclinical staff (80.7%) reported vaccine uptake similar to other certified but nonlicensed providers (81.2%). The strongest predictor of vaccine acceptance among VHA HCWs was individual awareness of organizational policy. Vaccine acceptance was also higher among HCWs who reported more options for access to vaccination and among those in facilities with more education activities. CONCLUSIONS Influenza vaccine acceptance varied significantly by employee awareness of employer policy and on-site access to vaccine. Employer-sponsored activities to increase access continue to show positive returns across occupations. Local influenza campaign efforts to educate HCWs may have reached saturation in this target group. These results suggest that focused communications to increase HCW awareness and understanding of employer policy can drive further increase in influenza vaccination acceptance. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2017;38:970-975.

Relationship between abdominal and pelvic floor muscle activation and intravaginal pressure during pelvic floor muscle contractions in healthy continent women.

PubMed

Madill, Stéphanie J; McLean, Linda

2006-01-01

Activation of the abdominal muscles might contribute to the generation of a strong pelvic floor muscle contraction, and consequently may contribute to the continence mechanism in women. The purpose of this study was to determine the abdominal muscle activation levels and the patterns of muscle activity associated with voluntary pelvic floor muscle (PFM) contractions in urinary continent women. Fifteen healthy continent women participated. They performed three maximal contractions of each of the four abdominal muscles and of their PFMs while in supine. Abdominal and PFM activity was recorded using electromyography (EMG), and intravaginal pressure was recorded using a custom modified Femiscan probe. During voluntary maximal PFM contractions, rectus abdominus was activated to 9.61 (+/-7.42)% maximal voluntary electrical activity (MVE), transversus abdominus was activated to 224.30(+/-47.4)% MVE, the external obliques were activated to 18.72(+/-13.33)% MVE, and the internal obliques were activated to 81.47(+/-63.57)% MVE. A clear pattern of activation emerged, whereby the transversus abdominus, internal oblique, and rectus abdominus muscles worked with the PFM in the initial generation of maximal intravaginal pressure. PFM activity predominated in the initial rise in lower vaginal pressure, with later increases in pressure (up to 70% maximum pressure) being associated with the combined activation of the PFM, rectus abdominus, internal obliques, and transverses abdominus. These abdominal muscles were the primary source of intravaginal pressure increases in the latter 30% of the task, whereas there was little increase in PFM activation from this point on. The external oblique muscles showed no clear pattern of activity, but worked at approximately 20% MVE throughout the PFM contractions, suggesting that their role may be predominantly in postural setting prior to the initiation of intravaginal pressure increases. Defined patterns of abdominal muscle activity were found in response to voluntary PFM contractions in healthy continent women. (c) 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

AltitudeOmics: on the consequences of high-altitude acclimatization for the development of fatigue during locomotor exercise in humans

PubMed Central

Goodall, Stuart; Twomey, Rosie; Subudhi, Andrew W.; Lovering, Andrew T.; Roach, Robert C.

2013-01-01

The development of muscle fatigue is oxygen (O2)-delivery sensitive [arterial O2 content (CaO2) × limb blood flow (QL)]. Locomotor exercise in acute hypoxia (AH) is, compared with sea level (SL), associated with reduced CaO2 and exaggerated inspiratory muscle work (Winsp), which impairs QL, both of which exacerbate fatigue individually by compromising O2 delivery. Since chronic hypoxia (CH) normalizes CaO2 but exacerbates Winsp, we investigated the consequences of a 14-day exposure to high altitude on exercise-induced locomotor muscle fatigue. Eight subjects performed the identical constant-load cycling exercise (138 ± 14 W; 11 ± 1 min) at SL (partial pressure of inspired O2, 147.1 ± 0.5 Torr), in AH (73.8 ± 0.2 Torr), and in CH (75.7 ± 0.1 Torr). Peripheral fatigue was expressed as pre- to postexercise percent reduction in electrically evoked potentiated quadriceps twitch force (ΔQtw,pot). Central fatigue was expressed as the exercise-induced percent decrease in voluntary muscle activation (ΔVA). Resting CaO2 at SL and CH was similar, but CaO2 in AH was lower compared with SL and CH (17.3 ± 0.5, 19.3 ± 0.7, 20.3 ± 1.3 ml O2/dl, respectively). Winsp during exercise increased with acclimatization (SL: 387 ± 36, AH: 503 ± 53, CH: 608 ± 67 cmH2O·s−1·min−1; P < 0.01). Exercise at SL did not induce central or peripheral fatigue. ΔQtw,pot was significant but similar in AH and CH (21 ± 2% and 19 ± 3%; P = 0.24). ΔVA was significant in both hypoxic conditions but smaller in CH vs. AH (4 ± 1% vs. 8 ± 2%; P < 0.05). In conclusion, acclimatization to severe altitude does not attenuate the substantial impact of hypoxia on the development of peripheral fatigue. In contrast, acclimatization attenuates, but does not eliminate, the exacerbation of central fatigue associated with exercise in severe AH. PMID:23813531

AltitudeOmics: on the consequences of high-altitude acclimatization for the development of fatigue during locomotor exercise in humans.

PubMed

Amann, Markus; Goodall, Stuart; Twomey, Rosie; Subudhi, Andrew W; Lovering, Andrew T; Roach, Robert C

2013-09-01

The development of muscle fatigue is oxygen (O2)-delivery sensitive [arterial O2 content (CaO2) × limb blood flow (QL)]. Locomotor exercise in acute hypoxia (AH) is, compared with sea level (SL), associated with reduced CaO2 and exaggerated inspiratory muscle work (Winsp), which impairs QL, both of which exacerbate fatigue individually by compromising O2 delivery. Since chronic hypoxia (CH) normalizes CaO2 but exacerbates Winsp, we investigated the consequences of a 14-day exposure to high altitude on exercise-induced locomotor muscle fatigue. Eight subjects performed the identical constant-load cycling exercise (138 ± 14 W; 11 ± 1 min) at SL (partial pressure of inspired O2, 147.1 ± 0.5 Torr), in AH (73.8 ± 0.2 Torr), and in CH (75.7 ± 0.1 Torr). Peripheral fatigue was expressed as pre- to postexercise percent reduction in electrically evoked potentiated quadriceps twitch force (ΔQtw,pot). Central fatigue was expressed as the exercise-induced percent decrease in voluntary muscle activation (ΔVA). Resting CaO2 at SL and CH was similar, but CaO2 in AH was lower compared with SL and CH (17.3 ± 0.5, 19.3 ± 0.7, 20.3 ± 1.3 ml O2/dl, respectively). Winsp during exercise increased with acclimatization (SL: 387 ± 36, AH: 503 ± 53, CH: 608 ± 67 cmH2O·s(-1)·min(-1); P < 0.01). Exercise at SL did not induce central or peripheral fatigue. ΔQtw,pot was significant but similar in AH and CH (21 ± 2% and 19 ± 3%; P = 0.24). ΔVA was significant in both hypoxic conditions but smaller in CH vs. AH (4 ± 1% vs. 8 ± 2%; P < 0.05). In conclusion, acclimatization to severe altitude does not attenuate the substantial impact of hypoxia on the development of peripheral fatigue. In contrast, acclimatization attenuates, but does not eliminate, the exacerbation of central fatigue associated with exercise in severe AH.

75 FR 42437 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission to OMB for Review and Approval; Comment...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-07-21

...; Comment Request; Engine Emission Defect Information Reports and Voluntary Emission Recall Reports (Renewal... Information Reports and Voluntary Emission Recall Reports (Renewal). ICR numbers: EPA ICR No. 0282.15, OMB... is required to recall the engines. Engine manufacturers are required to submit Defect Information...

77 FR 10572 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Existing Collection, Comments Requested: the Voluntary...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-02-22

... ACTION: 30-Day Notice of Information Collection Under Review. The Department of Justice (DOJ) FBI... Information Services (CJIS) Division of the FBI, Department of Justice (DOJ). (4) Affected Public who will be... the Voluntary Appeal File (VAF) of the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Division's...

Dimensions of the Independent Sector: A Statistical Profile. Second Edition.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hodgkinson, Virginia Ann; Weitzman, Murray S.

The second in a biennial series of statistical profiles of the independent sector (voluntary sector, third sector, or nonprofit sector) describes and charts the activities of groups and individuals associated with this sector. Included are voluntary organizations, foundations, the social responsibility programs of corporations, and people who…

49 CFR 27.11 - Remedial action, voluntary action and compliance planning.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Remedial action, voluntary action and compliance planning. 27.11 Section 27.11 Transportation Office of the Secretary of Transportation NONDISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS OF DISABILITY IN PROGRAMS OR ACTIVITIES RECEIVING FEDERAL FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE General § 27...

Development and Operation of a Voluntary Audit Program.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Murphy, Jerome R.

This report describes a voluntary audit program implemented by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). The comprehensive audit program was developed to assure that all corporate programs adhere to the ETS Standards for Quality and Fairness. The standards address issues which relate to all ETS activities such as accountability, confidentiality of…

Use of a "Super-child" Approach to Assess the Vitamin A Equivalence of Moringa oleifera Leaves, Develop a Compartmental Model for Vitamin A Kinetics, and Estimate Vitamin A Total Body Stores in Young Mexican Children.

PubMed

Lopez-Teros, Veronica; Ford, Jennifer Lynn; Green, Michael H; Tang, Guangwen; Grusak, Michael A; Quihui-Cota, Luis; Muzhingi, Tawanda; Paz-Cassini, Mariela; Astiazaran-Garcia, Humberto

2017-12-01

Background: Worldwide, an estimated 250 million children <5 y old are vitamin A (VA) deficient. In Mexico, despite ongoing efforts to reduce VA deficiency, it remains an important public health problem; thus, food-based interventions that increase the availability and consumption of provitamin A-rich foods should be considered. Objective: The objectives were to assess the VA equivalence of 2 H-labeled Moringa oleifera (MO) leaves and to estimate both total body stores (TBS) of VA and plasma retinol kinetics in young Mexican children. Methods: β-Carotene was intrinsically labeled by growing MO plants in a 2 H 2 O nutrient solution. Fifteen well-nourished children (17-35 mo old) consumed puréed MO leaves (1 mg β-carotene) and a reference dose of [ 13 C 10 ]retinyl acetate (1 mg) in oil. Blood (2 samples/child) was collected 10 times (2 or 3 children each time) over 35 d. The bioefficacy of MO leaves was calculated from areas under the composite "super-child" plasma isotope response curves, and MO VA equivalence was estimated through the use of these values; a compartmental model was developed to predict VA TBS and retinol kinetics through the use of composite plasma [ 13 C 10 ]retinol data. TBS were also estimated with isotope dilution. Results: The relative bioefficacy of β-carotene retinol activity equivalents from MO was 28%; VA equivalence was 3.3:1 by weight (0.56 μmol retinol:1 μmol β-carotene). Kinetics of plasma retinol indicate more rapid plasma appearance and turnover and more extensive recycling in these children than are observed in adults. Model-predicted mean TBS (823 μmol) was similar to values predicted using a retinol isotope dilution equation applied to data from 3 to 6 d after dosing (mean ± SD: 832 ± 176 μmol; n = 7). Conclusions: The super-child approach can be used to estimate population carotenoid bioefficacy and VA equivalence, VA status, and parameters of retinol metabolism from a composite data set. Our results provide initial estimates of retinol kinetics in well-nourished young children with adequate VA stores and demonstrate that MO leaves may be an important source of VA. © 2017 American Society for Nutrition.

Prevention of Hippocampal Neuronal Damage and Cognitive Function Deficits in Vascular Dementia by Dextromethorphan.

PubMed

Xu, Xiaofeng; Zhang, Bin; Lu, Kaili; Deng, Jiangshan; Zhao, Fei; Zhao, Bing-Qiao; Zhao, Yuwu

2016-07-01

Dextromethorphan (DM) is a non-competitive antagonist of NMDA receptors and a widely used component of cough medicine. Recently, its indication has been extended experimentally to a wide range of disorders including inflammation-mediated central nervous system disorders such as Parkinson disease (PD) and multiple sclerosis (MS). In this study, we investigate whether DM treatment has protective effects on the hippocampal neuron damage induced by bilateral occlusion of the common carotid arteries (two-vessel occlusion [2VO]), an animal model of vascular dementia (VaD). Sprague-Dawley (SD) (10 weeks of age) rats were subjected to the 2VO, and DM was injected intraperitoneally once per day for 37 days. Neuron death, glial activation, and cognitive function were assessed at 37 days after 2VO (0.2 mg/kg, i.p., "DM-0.2" and 2 mg/kg, i.p., "DM-2"). DM-2 treatment provided protection against neuronal death and glial activation in the hippocampal CA1 subfield and reduced cognitive impairment induced by 2VO in rats. The study also demonstrates that activation of the Nrf2-HO-1 pathway and upregulation of superoxide dismutase (SOD) play important roles in these effects. These results suggest that DM is effective in treating VaD and protecting against oxidative stress, which is strongly implicated in the pathogenesis of VaD. Therefore, the present study suggests that DM treatment may represent a new and promising protective strategy for treating VaD.

Visual acuity, self-reported vision and falls in the EPIC-Norfolk Eye study.

PubMed

Yip, Jennifer L Y; Khawaja, Anthony P; Broadway, David; Luben, Robert; Hayat, Shabina; Dalzell, Nichola; Bhaniani, Amit; Wareham, Nicholas; Khaw, Kay-Tee; Foster, Paul J

2014-03-01

To examine the relationship between visual acuity (VA) and self-reported vision (SRV) in relation to falls in 8317 participants of the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer-Norfolk Eye study. All participants completed a health questionnaire that included a question regarding SRV and questions regarding the number of falls in the past year. Distance VA was measured using a logMAR chart for each eye. Poor SRV was defined as those reporting fair or poor distance vision. The relationship between VA and SRV and self-rated falls was analysed by logistic regression, adjusting for age, sex, physical activity, body mass index, chronic disease, medication use and grip strength. Of 8317 participants, 26.7% (95% CI 25.7% to 27.7%) had fallen in the past 12 months. Worse VA and poorer SRV were associated with one or more falls in multivariable analysis (OR for falls=1.31, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.66 and OR=1.32, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.61, respectively). Poorer SRV was significantly associated with falls even after adjusting for VA (OR=1.28, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.57). SRV was associated with falls independently of VA and could be used as a simple proxy measure for other aspects of visual function to detect people requiring vision-related falls interventions.

The prophylactic effect of Viscum album in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

PubMed Central

Turkkan, Asuman; Savas, Hasan Basri; Yavuz, Berire; Yigit, Ayse; Uz, Efkan; Bayram, Nezire Asli; Kale, Banu

2016-01-01

OBJECTIVE: Viscum album (VA) is a species of mistletoe in the family Santalaceae that is thought to have therapeutic properties for several diseases, including diabetes. In the present study, conventional experimental rat model was used with diabetes induced with streptozotocin (STZ) to evaluate effect of VA on lipid peroxidation and antioxidant system. METHODS: Total of 32 adult, male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 4 groups of 8 rats: Control group, STZ group, VA group, and group administered VA+STZ. VA extract was 100 mg/kg preparation delivered once a day by oral gavage for 10 days. Single dose of 55 mg/kg STZ citrate buffer (0.1 M, pH 4.5) was administered intraperitoneally to induce diabetes. Fasting blood glucose level was measured and recorded. Animals were sacrificed, and catalase (CAT), malondialdehyde (MDA), and protein present in liver and kidney tissue samples were measured. Activity of CAT, an antioxidant enzyme, was studied according to the Aebi method. MDA, a product of lipid peroxidation, was analyzed using Draper and Hadley spectrophotometric procedure. Protein level was determined using supernatant and extract of tissue homogenates according to Lowry method. Data were assessed using one-way analysis of variance and pairwise comparisons between groups. Post-hoc analysis included Dunnet test, Duncan test, and least significant difference test. P<0.05 was considered significant probability value. RESULTS: Oxidative stress is associated with diabetic complications. VA administered to diabetic rats reduced oxidative stress and improved their general condition. CONCLUSION: Further studies are needed to enhance understanding of potential antidiabetic and antioxidant effects of VA. PMID:28058393

The DTIC Review: Distance Learning. Volume 3, Number 2

DTIC Science & Technology

1997-06-01

for Information Operations and Reports, 1215 Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite 1204, Arlington, VA 22202-4302. and to the Office of Management and...Reports, 1215 Jefferson Davis Higiway. Suite 1204, Arlington. VA 22202-4302, and to the Office of Management and Budget, Paperwork Reduction Project...student activities is important. The facilitator is required to be present during a major portion of the course to manage the laboratory and serves as

Statistical optimization and operational stability of Rhizomucor miehei lipase supported on magnetic chitosan/chitin nanoparticles for synthesis of pentyl valerate.

PubMed

Rahman, Ida Nurhazwani Abdul; Attan, Nursyafreena; Mahat, Naji Arafat; Jamalis, Joazaizulfazli; Abdul Keyon, Aemi S; Kurniawan, Cepi; Wahab, Roswanira Abdul

2018-04-24

The chemical-catalyzed transesterification process to produce biofuels i.e. pentyl valerate (PeVa) is environmentally unfriendly, energy-intensive with tedious downstream treatment. The present work reports the use of Rhizomucor miehei lipase (RML) crosslinked onto magnetic chitosan/chitin nanoparticles (RML-CS/CH/MNPs). The approach used to immobilize RML onto the CS/CH/MNPs yielded RML-CS/CH/MNPs with an immobilized protein loading and specific activity of 7.6 mg/g and 5.0 U·g -1 , respectively. This was confirmed by assessing data of field emission scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, thermal gravimetric analysis and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. A three-level-four-factor Box-Behnken design (incubation time, temperature, substrate molar ratio, and enzyme loading) was used to optimize the RML-CS/CH/MNP-catalyzed esterification synthesis of PeVa. Under optimum condition, the maximum yield of PeVa (97.8%) can be achieved in 5 h at 50 °C using molar ratio valeric acid:pentanol (1:2) and an enzyme load of 2 mg/mL. Consequently, operational stability experiments showed that the protocol adopted to prepare the CS/CH/MNP nanoparticles had increased the durability of RML. The RML-CS/CH/MNP could catalyze up to eight successive esterification cycles to produce PeVa. The study also demonstrated the functionality of CS/CH/MNP nanoparticles as an eco-friendly support matrix for improving enzymatic activity and operational stability of RML to produce PeVa. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Human-Computer Interface Controlled by Horizontal Directional Eye Movements and Voluntary Blinks Using AC EOG Signals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kajiwara, Yusuke; Murata, Hiroaki; Kimura, Haruhiko; Abe, Koji

As a communication support tool for cases of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), researches on eye gaze human-computer interfaces have been active. However, since voluntary and involuntary eye movements cannot be distinguished in the interfaces, their performance is still not sufficient for practical use. This paper presents a high performance human-computer interface system which unites high quality recognitions of horizontal directional eye movements and voluntary blinks. The experimental results have shown that the number of incorrect inputs is decreased by 35.1% in an existing system which equips recognitions of horizontal and vertical directional eye movements in addition to voluntary blinks and character inputs are speeded up by 17.4% from the existing system.

78 FR 15000 - Procurement List; Proposed Additions and Deletions

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-03-08

... NPA: None assigned Contracting Activity: Defense Logistics Agency Aviation, Richmond, VA Service...: Madison Area Rehabilitation Centers, Inc., Madison, WI Contracting Activity: GSA, Public Buildings Service...

Case-mix groups for VA hospital-based home care.

PubMed

Smith, M E; Baker, C R; Branch, L G; Walls, R C; Grimes, R M; Karklins, J M; Kashner, M; Burrage, R; Parks, A; Rogers, P

1992-01-01

The purpose of this study is to group hospital-based home care (HBHC) patients homogeneously by their characteristics with respect to cost of care to develop alternative case mix methods for management and reimbursement (allocation) purposes. Six Veterans Affairs (VA) HBHC programs in Fiscal Year (FY) 1986 that maximized patient, program, and regional variation were selected, all of which agreed to participate. All HBHC patients active in each program on October 1, 1987, in addition to all new admissions through September 30, 1988 (FY88), comprised the sample of 874 unique patients. Statistical methods include the use of classification and regression trees (CART software: Statistical Software; Lafayette, CA), analysis of variance, and multiple linear regression techniques. The resulting algorithm is a three-factor model that explains 20% of the cost variance (R2 = 20%, with a cross validation R2 of 12%). Similar classifications such as the RUG-II, which is utilized for VA nursing home and intermediate care, the VA outpatient resource allocation model, and the RUG-HHC, utilized in some states for reimbursing home health care in the private sector, explained less of the cost variance and, therefore, are less adequate for VA home care resource allocation.

Identification of an aggression-promoting pheromone and its receptor neurons in Drosophila.

PubMed

Wang, Liming; Anderson, David J

2010-01-14

Aggression is regulated by pheromones in many animal species. However, in no system have aggression pheromones, their cognate receptors and corresponding sensory neurons been identified. Here we show that 11-cis-vaccenyl acetate (cVA), a male-specific volatile pheromone, robustly promotes male-male aggression in the vinegar fly Drosophila melanogaster. The aggression-promoting effect of synthetic cVA requires olfactory sensory neurons (OSNs) expressing the receptor Or67d, as well as the receptor itself. Activation of Or67d-expressing OSNs, either by genetic manipulation of their excitability or by exposure to male pheromones in the absence of other classes of OSNs, is sufficient to promote aggression. High densities of male flies can promote aggression by the release of volatile cVA. In turn, cVA-promoted aggression can promote male fly dispersal from a food resource, in a manner dependent on Or67d-expressing OSNs. These data indicate that cVA may mediate negative-feedback control of male population density, through its effect on aggression. Identification of a pheromone-OSN pair controlling aggression in a genetic organism opens the way to unravelling the neurobiology of this evolutionarily conserved behaviour.

Interprofessional transformation of clinical education: The first six years of the Veterans Affairs Centers of Excellence in Primary Care Education.

PubMed

Harada, Nancy D; Traylor, Laural; Rugen, Kathryn Wirtz; Bowen, Judith L; Smith, C Scott; Felker, Bradford; Ludke, Deborah; Tonnu-Mihara, Ivy; Ruberg, Joshua L; Adler, Jayson; Uhl, Kimberly; Gardner, Annette L; Gilman, Stuart C

2018-02-20

This paper describes the Centers of Excellence in Primary Care Education (CoEPCE), a seven-site collaborative project funded by the Office of Academic Affiliations (OAA) within the Veterans Health Administration of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The CoEPCE was established to fulfill OAA's vision of large-scale transformation of the clinical learning environment within VA primary care settings. This was accomplished by funding new Centers within VA facilities to develop models of interprofessional education (IPE) to teach health professions trainees to deliver high quality interprofessional team-based primary care to Veterans. Using reports and data collected and maintained by the National Coordinating Center over the first six years of the project, we describe program inputs, the multicomponent intervention, activities undertaken to develop the intervention, and short-term outcomes. The findings have implications for lessons learned that can be considered by others seeking large-scale transformation of education within the clinical workplace and the development of interprofessional clinical learning environments. Within the VA, the CoEPCE has laid the foundation for IPE and collaborative practice, but much work remains to disseminate this work throughout the national VA system.

Biofortified orange maize is as efficacious as a vitamin A supplement in Zambian children even in the presence of high liver reserves of vitamin A: a community-based, randomized placebo-controlled trial.

PubMed

Gannon, Bryan; Kaliwile, Chisela; Arscott, Sara A; Schmaelzle, Samantha; Chileshe, Justin; Kalungwana, Ngándwe; Mosonda, Mofu; Pixley, Kevin; Masi, Cassim; Tanumihardjo, Sherry A

2014-12-01

Biofortification is a strategy to relieve vitamin A (VA) deficiency. Biofortified maize contains enhanced provitamin A concentrations and has been bioefficacious in animal and small human studies. The study sought to determine changes in total body reserves (TBRs) of vitamin A with consumption of biofortified maize. A randomized, placebo-controlled biofortified maize efficacy trial was conducted in 140 rural Zambian children. The paired (13)C-retinol isotope dilution test, a sensitive biomarker for VA status, was used to measure TBRs before and after a 90-d intervention. Treatments were white maize with placebo oil (VA-), orange maize with placebo (orange), and white maize with VA in oil [400 μg retinol activity equivalents (RAEs) in 214 μL daily] (VA+). In total, 133 children completed the trial and were analyzed for TBRs (n = 44 or 45/group). Change in TBR residuals were not normally distributed (P < 0.0001); median changes (95% CI) were as follows: VA-, 13 (-19, 44) μmol; orange, 84 (21, 146) μmol; and VA+, 98 (24, 171) μmol. Nonparametric analysis showed no statistical difference between VA+ and orange (P = 0.34); both were higher than VA- (P = 0.0034). Median (95% CI) calculated liver reserves at baseline were 1.04 (0.97, 1.12) μmol/g liver, with 59% >1 μmol/g, the subtoxicity cutoff; none were <0.1 μmol/g, the deficiency cutoff. The calculated bioconversion factor was 10.4 μg β-carotene equivalents/1 μg retinol by using the middle 3 quintiles of change in TBRs from each group. Serum retinol did not change in response to intervention (P = 0.16) but was reduced with elevated C-reactive protein (P = 0.0029) and α-1-acid glycoprotein (P = 0.0023) at baseline. β-Carotene from maize was efficacious when consumed as a staple food in this population and could avoid the potential for hypervitaminosis A that was observed with the use of preformed VA from supplementation and fortification. Use of more sensitive methods other than serum retinol alone, such as isotope dilution, is required to accurately assess VA status, evaluate interventions, and investigate the interaction of VA status and infection. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01814891. © 2014 American Society for Nutrition.

Voluntary physical activity prevents insulin resistance in a tissue specific manner.

PubMed

Sarvas, Jessica L; Otis, Jeffrey S; Khaper, Neelam; Lees, Simon J

2015-02-01

Physical inactivity and a sedentary lifestyle are risk factors for the development of type 2 diabetes. Here, we identified the effects 8 weeks of voluntary physical activity had on the prevention of insulin resistance in mouse skeletal muscles and liver (a hallmark of T2D). To do this, 8 week old C57BL/6J mice with (RUN) and without (SED) voluntary access to running wheels were fed a standard rodent chow ad libitum for 8 weeks. In the liver, there was a 2.5-fold increase in insulin stimulated Akt(SER) (473) phosphorylation, and a threefold increase in insulin-stimulated (0.5 U/kg) GSK3β(SER) (9) phosphorylation in RUN compared to SED mice. Although not induced in skeletal muscles, there was a twofold increase in SOCS3 expression in SED compared to RUN mice in the liver. There was no difference in the glucose tolerance test between groups. This study was the first to show differences in liver insulin sensitivity after 8 weeks of voluntary physical activity, and increased SOCS3 expression in the liver of sedentary mice compared to active mice. These findings demonstrate that even in young mice that would normally be considered healthy, the lack of physical activity leads to insulin resistance representing the initial pathogenesis of impaired glucose metabolism leading to type 2 diabetes. © 2015 The Authors. Physiological Reports published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of the American Physiological Society and The Physiological Society.

Implementing and evaluating a regional strategy to improve testing rates in VA patients at risk for HIV, utilizing the QUERI process as a guiding framework: QUERI Series.

PubMed

Goetz, Matthew B; Bowman, Candice; Hoang, Tuyen; Anaya, Henry; Osborn, Teresa; Gifford, Allen L; Asch, Steven M

2008-03-19

We describe how we used the framework of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Quality Enhancement Research Initiative (QUERI) to develop a program to improve rates of diagnostic testing for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). This venture was prompted by the observation by the CDC that 25% of HIV-infected patients do not know their diagnosis - a point of substantial importance to the VA, which is the largest provider of HIV care in the United States. Following the QUERI steps (or process), we evaluated: 1) whether undiagnosed HIV infection is a high-risk, high-volume clinical issue within the VA, 2) whether there are evidence-based recommendations for HIV testing, 3) whether there are gaps in the performance of VA HIV testing, and 4) the barriers and facilitators to improving current practice in the VA.Based on our findings, we developed and initiated a QUERI step 4/phase 1 pilot project using the precepts of the Chronic Care Model. Our improvement strategy relies upon electronic clinical reminders to provide decision support; audit/feedback as a clinical information system, and appropriate changes in delivery system design. These activities are complemented by academic detailing and social marketing interventions to achieve provider activation. Our preliminary formative evaluation indicates the need to ensure leadership and team buy-in, address facility-specific barriers, refine the reminder, and address factors that contribute to inter-clinic variances in HIV testing rates. Preliminary unadjusted data from the first seven months of our program show 3-5 fold increases in the proportion of at-risk patients who are offered HIV testing at the VA sites (stations) where the pilot project has been undertaken; no change was seen at control stations. This project demonstrates the early success of the application of the QUERI process to the development of a program to improve HIV testing rates. Preliminary unadjusted results show that the coordinated use of audit/feedback, provider activation, and organizational change can increase HIV testing rates for at-risk patients. We are refining our program prior to extending our work to a small-scale, multi-site evaluation (QUERI step 4/phase 2). We also plan to evaluate the durability/sustainability of the intervention effect, the costs of HIV testing, and the number of newly identified HIV-infected patients. Ultimately, we will evaluate this program in other geographically dispersed stations (QUERI step 4/phases 3 and 4).

Implementing and evaluating a regional strategy to improve testing rates in VA patients at risk for HIV, utilizing the QUERI process as a guiding framework: QUERI Series

PubMed Central

Goetz, Matthew B; Bowman, Candice; Hoang, Tuyen; Anaya, Henry; Osborn, Teresa; Gifford, Allen L; Asch, Steven M

2008-01-01

Background We describe how we used the framework of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Quality Enhancement Research Initiative (QUERI) to develop a program to improve rates of diagnostic testing for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). This venture was prompted by the observation by the CDC that 25% of HIV-infected patients do not know their diagnosis – a point of substantial importance to the VA, which is the largest provider of HIV care in the United States. Methods Following the QUERI steps (or process), we evaluated: 1) whether undiagnosed HIV infection is a high-risk, high-volume clinical issue within the VA, 2) whether there are evidence-based recommendations for HIV testing, 3) whether there are gaps in the performance of VA HIV testing, and 4) the barriers and facilitators to improving current practice in the VA. Based on our findings, we developed and initiated a QUERI step 4/phase 1 pilot project using the precepts of the Chronic Care Model. Our improvement strategy relies upon electronic clinical reminders to provide decision support; audit/feedback as a clinical information system, and appropriate changes in delivery system design. These activities are complemented by academic detailing and social marketing interventions to achieve provider activation. Results Our preliminary formative evaluation indicates the need to ensure leadership and team buy-in, address facility-specific barriers, refine the reminder, and address factors that contribute to inter-clinic variances in HIV testing rates. Preliminary unadjusted data from the first seven months of our program show 3–5 fold increases in the proportion of at-risk patients who are offered HIV testing at the VA sites (stations) where the pilot project has been undertaken; no change was seen at control stations. Discussion This project demonstrates the early success of the application of the QUERI process to the development of a program to improve HIV testing rates. Preliminary unadjusted results show that the coordinated use of audit/feedback, provider activation, and organizational change can increase HIV testing rates for at-risk patients. We are refining our program prior to extending our work to a small-scale, multi-site evaluation (QUERI step 4/phase 2). We also plan to evaluate the durability/sustainability of the intervention effect, the costs of HIV testing, and the number of newly identified HIV-infected patients. Ultimately, we will evaluate this program in other geographically dispersed stations (QUERI step 4/phases 3 and 4). PMID:18353185

Enhanced health event detection and influenza surveillance using a joint Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense biosurveillance application.

PubMed

Lucero, Cynthia A; Oda, Gina; Cox, Kenneth; Maldonado, Frank; Lombardo, Joseph; Wojcik, Richard; Holodniy, Mark

2011-09-19

The establishment of robust biosurveillance capabilities is an important component of the U.S. strategy for identifying disease outbreaks, environmental exposures and bioterrorism events. Currently, U.S. Departments of Defense (DoD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) perform biosurveillance independently. This article describes a joint VA/DoD biosurveillance project at North Chicago-VA Medical Center (NC-VAMC). The Naval Health Clinics-Great Lakes facility physically merged with NC-VAMC beginning in 2006 with the full merger completed in October 2010 at which time all DoD care and medical personnel had relocated to the expanded and remodeled NC-VAMC campus and the combined facility was renamed the Lovell Federal Health Care Center (FHCC). The goal of this study was to evaluate disease surveillance using a biosurveillance application which combined data from both populations. A retrospective analysis of NC-VAMC/Lovell FHCC and other Chicago-area VAMC data was performed using the ESSENCE biosurveillance system, including one infectious disease outbreak (Salmonella/Taste of Chicago-July 2007) and one weather event (Heat Wave-July 2006). Influenza-like-illness (ILI) data from these same facilities was compared with CDC/Illinois Sentinel Provider and Cook County ESSENCE data for 2007-2008. Following consolidation of VA and DoD facilities in North Chicago, median number of visits more than doubled, median patient age dropped and proportion of females rose significantly in comparison with the pre-merger NC-VAMC facility. A high-level gastrointestinal alert was detected in July 2007, but only low-level alerts at other Chicago-area VAMCs. Heat-injury alerts were triggered for the merged facility in June 2006, but not at the other facilities. There was also limited evidence in these events that surveillance of the combined population provided utility above and beyond the VA-only and DoD-only components. Recorded ILI activity for NC-VAMC/Lovell FHCC was more pronounced in the DoD component, likely due to pediatric data in this population. NC-VAMC/Lovell FHCC had two weeks of ILI activity exceeding both the Illinois State and East North Central Regional baselines, whereas Hines VAMC had one and Jesse Brown VAMC had zero. Biosurveillance in a joint VA/DoD facility showed potential utility as a tool to improve surveillance and situational awareness in an area with Veteran, active duty and beneficiary populations. Based in part on the results of this pilot demonstration, both agencies have agreed to support the creation of a combined VA/DoD ESSENCE biosurveillance system which is now under development.

A concept analysis of voluntary active euthanasia.

PubMed

Guo, Fenglin

2006-01-01

Euthanasia has a wide range of classifications. Confusion exists in the application of specific concepts to various studies. To analyze the concept of voluntary active euthanasia using Walker and Avant's concept analysis method. A comprehensive literature review from various published literature and bibliographies. Clinical, ethical, and policy differences and similarities of euthanasia need to be debated openly, both within the medical profession and publicly. Awareness of the classifications about euthanasia may help nurses dealing with "end of life issues" properly.

The challenge of big data in public health: an opportunity for visual analytics.

PubMed

Ola, Oluwakemi; Sedig, Kamran

2014-01-01

Public health (PH) data can generally be characterized as big data. The efficient and effective use of this data determines the extent to which PH stakeholders can sufficiently address societal health concerns as they engage in a variety of work activities. As stakeholders interact with data, they engage in various cognitive activities such as analytical reasoning, decision-making, interpreting, and problem solving. Performing these activities with big data is a challenge for the unaided mind as stakeholders encounter obstacles relating to the data's volume, variety, velocity, and veracity. Such being the case, computer-based information tools are needed to support PH stakeholders. Unfortunately, while existing computational tools are beneficial in addressing certain work activities, they fall short in supporting cognitive activities that involve working with large, heterogeneous, and complex bodies of data. This paper presents visual analytics (VA) tools, a nascent category of computational tools that integrate data analytics with interactive visualizations, to facilitate the performance of cognitive activities involving big data. Historically, PH has lagged behind other sectors in embracing new computational technology. In this paper, we discuss the role that VA tools can play in addressing the challenges presented by big data. In doing so, we demonstrate the potential benefit of incorporating VA tools into PH practice, in addition to highlighting the need for further systematic and focused research.

The Challenge of Big Data in Public Health: An Opportunity for Visual Analytics

PubMed Central

Ola, Oluwakemi; Sedig, Kamran

2014-01-01

Public health (PH) data can generally be characterized as big data. The efficient and effective use of this data determines the extent to which PH stakeholders can sufficiently address societal health concerns as they engage in a variety of work activities. As stakeholders interact with data, they engage in various cognitive activities such as analytical reasoning, decision-making, interpreting, and problem solving. Performing these activities with big data is a challenge for the unaided mind as stakeholders encounter obstacles relating to the data’s volume, variety, velocity, and veracity. Such being the case, computer-based information tools are needed to support PH stakeholders. Unfortunately, while existing computational tools are beneficial in addressing certain work activities, they fall short in supporting cognitive activities that involve working with large, heterogeneous, and complex bodies of data. This paper presents visual analytics (VA) tools, a nascent category of computational tools that integrate data analytics with interactive visualizations, to facilitate the performance of cognitive activities involving big data. Historically, PH has lagged behind other sectors in embracing new computational technology. In this paper, we discuss the role that VA tools can play in addressing the challenges presented by big data. In doing so, we demonstrate the potential benefit of incorporating VA tools into PH practice, in addition to highlighting the need for further systematic and focused research. PMID:24678376

Ankle voluntary movement enhancement following robotic-assisted locomotor training in spinal cord injury

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background In incomplete spinal cord injury (iSCI), sensorimotor impairments result in severe limitations to ambulation. To improve walking capacity, physical therapies using robotic-assisted locomotor devices, such as the Lokomat, have been developed. Following locomotor training, an improvement in gait capabilities—characterized by increases in the over-ground walking speed and endurance—is generally observed in patients. To better understand the mechanisms underlying these improvements, we studied the effects of Lokomat training on impaired ankle voluntary movement, known to be an important limiting factor in gait for iSCI patients. Methods Fifteen chronic iSCI subjects performed twelve 1-hour sessions of Lokomat training over the course of a month. The voluntary movement was qualified by measuring active range of motion, maximal velocity peak and trajectory smoothness for the spastic ankle during a movement from full plantar-flexion (PF) to full dorsi-flexion (DF) at the patient’s maximum speed. Dorsi- and plantar-flexor muscle strength was quantified by isometric maximal voluntary contraction (MVC). Clinical assessments were also performed using the Timed Up and Go (TUG), the 10-meter walk (10MWT) and the 6-minute walk (6MWT) tests. All evaluations were performed both before and after the training and were compared to a control group of fifteen iSCI patients. Results After the Lokomat training, the active range of motion, the maximal velocity, and the movement smoothness were significantly improved in the voluntary movement. Patients also exhibited an improvement in the MVC for their ankle dorsi- and plantar-flexor muscles. In terms of functional activity, we observed an enhancement in the mobility (TUG) and the over-ground gait velocity (10MWT) with training. Correlation tests indicated a significant relationship between ankle voluntary movement performance and the walking clinical assessments. Conclusions The improvements of the kinematic and kinetic parameters of the ankle voluntary movement, and their correlation with the functional assessments, support the therapeutic effect of robotic-assisted locomotor training on motor impairment in chronic iSCI. PMID:24684813

Partnerships with health and private voluntary organizations: what are the issues for health authorities and boards?

PubMed

Coid, D R; Williams, B; Crombie, I K

2003-09-01

The number of voluntary organizations active in health care is considerable. There have been recent calls for a new closer working relationship between voluntary bodies and the National Health Service. The relationship between the two healthcare sectors needs to be efficient and harmonious in the interests of patient care; however, little is known about the nature and problems in the current relationship. The present study was undertaken to examine aspects of this relationship from the point of view of health board personnel. To identify the practices and views of Scottish health board staff concerning the funding, role and responsibility of voluntary organizations in the health sector. A qualitative study based on in-depth interviews with health board officials in all 15 Scottish health boards. Policies for financial and other relationships with the voluntary sector were often not explicit. The levels and method of funding voluntary health organizations varied across boards, as did the tenure of awards (from 1 to 3 years). Demand for funding far exceeded monies available. Some health boards ensured accountability through audited accounts, annual reports and site visits; however, others thought this inappropriate for small organizations. Health boards recognized the problems of the precariousness of funding and the administrative burden of the monitoring process and the ritual of applying for funding. The uncertainties of long-term funding may impede the contribution of voluntary organizations. There is a tension between the requirements of clinical governance and the ability of small voluntary organizations to provide the necessary documentation. One proposed solution, to reduce the number of organizations, might not appeal to the voluntary sector. Future initiatives could address the problem of tailoring funding and accounting to the resources of voluntary organizations.

Smoking and physical activity: examining health behaviors and 15-year mortality among individuals with multiple sclerosis.

PubMed

Turner, Aaron P; Hartoonian, Narineh; Maynard, Charles; Leipertz, Steven L; Haselkorn, Jodie K

2015-03-01

To examine 2 modifiable health behaviors-smoking and physical activity-and their relationship to mortality among individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). Secondary analysis of Large Health Survey. Data were obtained from a linkage of the Veterans Affairs (VA) MS National Data Repository, containing information on service provision to all individuals with MS receiving health services within the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; the VA 1999 Large Health Survey, containing information on smoking and physical activity; and the VA Vital Status File. All-cause mortality was examined for the 15-year period from 1999 through 2013. Participants (N=2994) with MS who completed the Large Health Survey containing information on smoking and physical activity. Not applicable. Survival. There were 1500 deaths (50.1%) during the study period. Cox proportional hazard analyses were conducted to examine the association between smoking and physical activity and 15-year mortality. After adjusting for demographic factors, physical functioning, mental health, and comorbid medical conditions, baseline smoking was associated with greater mortality (hazard ratio [HR]=1.38; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.184-1.60). Higher levels of baseline physical activity were associated with lower mortality (activity 1-2 times/wk: HR=.64; 95% CI, .518-.798; activity ≥3 times/wk: HR=.53; 95% CI, .388-.715). Results suggest that modifiable health behaviors represent a promising opportunity for intervention to improve the lives of individuals with MS. Copyright © 2015 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Tracking the will to attend: Cortical activity indexes self-generated, voluntary shifts of attention.

PubMed

Gmeindl, Leon; Chiu, Yu-Chin; Esterman, Michael S; Greenberg, Adam S; Courtney, Susan M; Yantis, Steven

2016-10-01

The neural substrates of volition have long tantalized philosophers and scientists. Over the past few decades, researchers have employed increasingly sophisticated technology to investigate this issue, but many studies have been limited considerably by their reliance on intrusive experimental procedures (e.g., abrupt instructional cues), measures of brain activity contaminated by overt behavior, or introspective self-report techniques of questionable validity. Here, we used multivoxel pattern time-course analysis of functional magnetic resonance imaging data to index voluntary, covert perceptual acts-shifts of visuospatial attention-in the absence of instructional cues, overt behavioral indices, and self-report. We found that these self-generated, voluntary attention shifts were time-locked to activity in the medial superior parietal lobule, supporting the hypothesis that this brain region is engaged in voluntary attentional reconfiguration. Self-generated attention shifts were also time-locked to activity in the basal ganglia, a novel finding that motivates further research into the role of the basal ganglia in acts of volition. Remarkably, prior to self-generated shifts of attention, we observed early and selective increases in the activation of medial frontal (dorsal anterior cingulate) and lateral prefrontal (right middle frontal gyrus) cortex-activity that likely reflects processing related to the intention or preparation to reorient attention. These findings, which extend recent evidence on freely chosen motor movements, suggest that dorsal anterior cingulate and lateral prefrontal cortices play key roles in both overt and covert acts of volition, and may constitute core components of a brain network underlying the will to attend.

Tracking the Will to Attend: Cortical Activity Indexes Self-Generated, Voluntary Shifts of Attention

PubMed Central

Gmeindl, Leon; Chiu, Yu-Chin; Esterman, Michael S.; Greenberg, Adam S.; Courtney, Susan M.; Yantis, Steven

2016-01-01

The neural substrates of volition have long tantalized philosophers and scientists. Over the past few decades, researchers have employed increasingly sophisticated technology to investigate this issue, but many studies have been limited considerably by their reliance on intrusive experimental procedures (e.g., abrupt instructional cues), measures of brain activity contaminated by overt behavior, or introspective self-report techniques of questionable validity. Here, we used multivoxel-pattern time-course analysis of functional magnetic resonance imaging data to index voluntary, covert perceptual acts—shifts of visuospatial attention—in the absence of instructional cues, overt behavioral indices, and self-report. We found that these self-generated, voluntary attention shifts were time-locked to activity in the medial superior parietal lobule, supporting the hypothesis that this brain region is engaged in voluntary attentional reconfiguration. Self-generated attention shifts were also time-locked to activity in the basal ganglia, a novel finding that motivates further research into the role of the basal ganglia in acts of volition. Remarkably, prior to self-generated shifts of attention we observed early and selective increases in activation of medial frontal (dorsal anterior cingulate) and lateral prefrontal cortex (right middle frontal gyrus)—activity that likely reflects processing related to the intention or preparation to reorient attention. These findings, which extend recent evidence on freely chosen motor movements, suggest that dorsal anterior cingulate and lateral prefrontal cortices play key roles in both overt and covert acts of volition, and may constitute core components of a brain network underlying the will to attend. PMID:27301353

Brain Networks of Novelty-Driven Involuntary and Cued Voluntary Auditory Attention Shifting

PubMed Central

Huang, Samantha; Belliveau, John W.; Tengshe, Chinmayi; Ahveninen, Jyrki

2012-01-01

In everyday life, we need a capacity to flexibly shift attention between alternative sound sources. However, relatively little work has been done to elucidate the mechanisms of attention shifting in the auditory domain. Here, we used a mixed event-related/sparse-sampling fMRI approach to investigate this essential cognitive function. In each 10-sec trial, subjects were instructed to wait for an auditory “cue” signaling the location where a subsequent “target” sound was likely to be presented. The target was occasionally replaced by an unexpected “novel” sound in the uncued ear, to trigger involuntary attention shifting. To maximize the attention effects, cues, targets, and novels were embedded within dichotic 800-Hz vs. 1500-Hz pure-tone “standard” trains. The sound of clustered fMRI acquisition (starting at t = 7.82 sec) served as a controlled trial-end signal. Our approach revealed notable activation differences between the conditions. Cued voluntary attention shifting activated the superior intra­­parietal sulcus (IPS), whereas novelty-triggered involuntary orienting activated the inferior IPS and certain subareas of the precuneus. Clearly more widespread activations were observed during voluntary than involuntary orienting in the premotor cortex, including the frontal eye fields. Moreover, we found ­evidence for a frontoinsular-cingular attentional control network, consisting of the anterior insula, inferior frontal cortex, and medial frontal cortices, which were activated during both target discrimination and voluntary attention shifting. Finally, novels and targets activated much wider areas of superior temporal auditory cortices than shifting cues. PMID:22937153

Physical activity and dementia risk in the elderly: findings from a prospective Italian study.

PubMed

Ravaglia, G; Forti, P; Lucicesare, A; Pisacane, N; Rietti, E; Bianchin, M; Dalmonte, E

2008-05-06

To examine the effect of physical activity on risk of developing Alzheimer disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VaD) in the elderly. Data are from a prospective population-based cohort of 749 Italian subjects aged 65 and older who, in 1999/2000, were cognitively normal at an extensive assessment for clinically overt and preclinical dementia and, in 2003/2004, underwent follow-up for incident dementia. Baseline physical activity was measured as energy expenditure on activities of different intensity (walking, stair climbing, moderate activities, vigorous activities, and total physical activity). Over 3.9 +/- 0.7 years of follow-up there were 86 incident dementia cases (54 AD, 27 VaD). After adjustment for sociodemographic and genetic confounders, VaD risk was significantly lower for the upper tertiles of walking (hazard ratio [HR] 0.27, 95% CI 0.12 to 0.63), moderate (HR 0.29, 95% CI 0.12 to 0.66), and total physical activity (HR 0.24, 95% 0.11 to 0.56) compared to the corresponding lowest tertile. The association persisted after accounting for vascular risk factors and overall health status. After adjustment for sociodemographic and genetic confounders, AD risk was not associated with measures of physical activity and results did not change after further adjustment for vascular risk factors and overall health and functional status. In this cohort, physical activity is associated with a lower risk of vascular dementia but not of Alzheimer disease. Further research is needed about the biologic mechanisms operating between physical activity and cognition.

H2O2-responsive molecularly engineered polymer nanoparticles as ischemia/reperfusion-targeted nanotherapeutic agents

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Dongwon; Bae, Soochan; Hong, Donghyun; Lim, Hyungsuk; Yoon, Joo Heung; Hwang, On; Park, Seunggyu; Ke, Qingen; Khang, Gilson; Kang, Peter M.

2013-07-01

The main culprit in the pathogenesis of ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), the most abundant form of ROS produced during I/R, causes inflammation, apoptosis and subsequent tissue damages. Here, we report H2O2-responsive antioxidant nanoparticles formulated from copolyoxalate containing vanillyl alcohol (VA) (PVAX) as a novel I/R-targeted nanotherapeutic agent. PVAX was designed to incorporate VA and H2O2-responsive peroxalate ester linkages covalently in its backbone. PVAX nanoparticles therefore degrade and release VA, which is able to reduce the generation of ROS, and exert anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic activity. In hind-limb I/R and liver I/R models in mice, PVAX nanoparticles specifically reacted with overproduced H2O2 and exerted highly potent anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic activities that reduced cellular damages. Therefore, PVAX nanoparticles have tremendous potential as nanotherapeutic agents for I/R injury and H2O2-associated diseases.

75 FR 52437 - IFR Altitudes; Miscellaneous Amendments

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-08-26

... Part GORDONSVILLE, VA VORTAC LURAY, VA FIX 6100 LURAY, VA FIX *KERRE, VA FIX **6000 *7000--MRA **5000--MOCA *KERRE, VA FIX MARTINSBURG, WV VORTAC.. **6000 *7000--MRA **5000--MOCA Sec. 95.6005 VOR Federal... GORDONSVILLE, VA VORTAC LURAY, VA FIX 6100 LURAY, VA FIX *KERRE, VA FIX **6000 *7000--MRA **5000--MOCA *KERRE...

Providers' and Administrators' Perceptions of Complementary and Integrative Health Practices Across the Veterans Health Administration

PubMed Central

Mitchinson, Allison R.; Trumble, Erika; Hinshaw, Daniel B.; Dusek, Jeffery A.

2017-01-01

Abstract Objectives: Use of complementary and integrative health (CIH) therapies is being promoted by the Veterans Health Administration (VA), but promotion may not equate to adoption. The purpose of this study was to explore whether perceptions regarding CIH at one VA medical center (VAMC) were similar to perceptions from a sample of other VAMCs. Design: This article reports a subset of qualitative findings from a mixed-methods study. Setting/Participants: Sites were recruited through a VA-wide CIH listserver. On the basis of site description (e.g., therapies offered, interest in CIH), sustained site interest, and geographic location, recorded interviews of 22 persons were conducted at 6 sites across the country. Outcome measures: Interviewees were asked the same questions as the single-site VAMC study respondents. Results: Variable access to CIH services across the VA created the need for workarounds. Multiple barriers (e.g., limited space and challenging credentialing) and facilitators (e.g., strong champion and high veteran demand) were cited. Respondents described nonpharmacologic pain control, the usefulness in treating mental health and/or post-traumatic stress disorder issues, and improvement of staff morale as additional reasons to promote CIH. Findings confirmed those from the earlier single-site VAMC phase of the study. Even the highest-performing sites reported struggling to meet veterans' demands for delivery of CIH. Conclusions: Almost half of active-duty military personnel report the use of at least one type of CIH therapy. As active-duty personnel transition to veteran status, both their physical and mental healthcare needs can potentially benefit from CIH therapies. The VA must actively support local enthusiastic CIH proponents and receive congressional support if it is to actually meet its stated goal of providing personalized, proactive, patient-driven healthcare through the promotion of comprehensive CIH services to veterans. PMID:27925776

The Extent of Fermentative Transformation of Phenolic Compounds in the Bioanode Controls Exoelectrogenic Activity in a Microbial Electrolysis Cell

DOE PAGES

Zeng, Xiaofei; Collins, Maya; Borole, Abhijeet P.; ...

2016-11-27

Phenolic compounds in hydrolysate/pyrolysate and wastewater streams produced during the pretreatment of lignocellulosic biomass for biofuel production present a significant challenge in downstream processes. Bioelectrochemical systems are increasingly recognized as an alternative technology to handle biomass-derived streams and to promote water reuse in biofuel production. Thus, a thorough understanding of the fate of phenolic compounds in bioanodes is urgently needed. The present study investigated the biotransformation of three structurally similar phenolic compounds (syringic acid, SA; vanillic acid, VA; 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, HBA), and their individual contribution to exoelectrogenesis in a microbial electrolysis cell (MEC) bioanode. Fermentation of SA resulted in themore » highest exoelectrogenic activity among the three compounds tested, with 50% of the electron equivalents converted to current, compared to 12 and 9% for VA and HBA, respectively. The biotransformation of SA, VA and HBA was initiated by demethylation and decarboxylation reactions common to all three compounds, resulting in their corresponding hydroxylated analogs. SA was transformed to pyrogallol (1,2,3-trihydroxybenzene), whose aromatic ring was then cleaved via a phloroglucinol pathway, resulting in acetate production, which was then used in exoelectrogenesis. In contrast, more than 80% of VA and HBA was converted to catechol (1,2-dihydroxybenzene) and phenol (hydroxybenzene) as their respective dead-end products. The persistence of catechol and phenol is explained by the fact that the phloroglucinol pathway does not apply to di- or mono-hydroxylated benzenes. Previously reported, alternative ring-cleaving pathways were either absent in the bioanode microbial community or unfavorable due to high energy-demand reactions. With the exception of acetate oxidation, all biotransformation steps in the bioanode occurred via fermentation, independently of exoelectrogenesis. Therefore, the observed exoelectrogenic activity in batch runs conducted with SA, VA and HBA was controlled by the extent of fermentative transformation of the three phenolic compounds in the bioanode, which is related to the number and position of the methoxy and hydroxyl substituents.« less

Body position effects on sternocleidomastoid and masseter EMG pattern activity in patients undergoing occlusal splint therapy.

PubMed

Ormeño, G; Miralles, R; Santander, H; Casassus, R; Ferrer, P; Palazzi, C; Moya, H

1997-10-01

This study was conducted in order to determine the effects of body position on electromyographic (EMG) activity of sternocleidomastoid and masseter muscles, in 15 patients with myogenic cranio-cervical-mandibular dysfunction undergoing occlusal splint therapy. EMG activity was recorded by placing surface electrodes on the sternocleidomastoid and masseter muscles (contralateral to the habitual sleeping side of each patient). EMG activity at rest and during swallowing of saliva and maximal voluntary clenching was recorded in the following body positions: standing, supine and lateral decubitus. In the sternocleidomastoid muscle significant higher EMG activities at rest and during swallowing were recorded in the lateral decubitus position, whereas during maximal voluntary clenching EMG activity did not change. In the masseter muscle significant higher EMG activity during maximal voluntary clenching in a standing position was observed, whereas EMG activity at rest and during swallowing did not change. The opposite pattern of EMG activity supports the idea that there may exist a differential modulation of the motor neuron pools of the sternocleidomastoid and masseter muscles, of peripheral and/or central origin. This suggests that the presence of parafunctional habits and body position could be closely correlated with the clinical symptomatology in these muscles in patients with myogenic craniomandibular dysfunction.

Blood donors in Kenya: a comparison of voluntary and family replacement donors based on a population-based survey.

PubMed

Kimani, D; Mwangi, J; Mwangi, M; Bunnell, R; Kellogg, T A; Oluoch, T; Gichangi, A; Kaiser, R; Mugo, N; Odongo, T; Oduor, M; Marum, L

2011-02-01

Blood safety and sufficiency are major challenges in Kenya and other sub-Saharan African countries forcing many countries to rely on family replacement donors (FRD). We analysed data from a national AIDS indicator survey to describe blood donors in Kenya and potential risks of transfusion transmissible infections (TTI) comparing voluntary donors and FRD. A population-based, cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2007 among 15- to 64-year-olds. Consenting participants were interviewed about blood donation history and were tested for HIV, HSV-2 and syphilis. Of the 17,940 people surveyed, 445 (2·3%) reported donating blood in the prior 12 months. Sixty-four per cent were voluntary donors, and the rest were FRD. Compared to FRD, the majority of voluntary donors were <25 years old (59% versus 18%), from the highest wealth quintile (57% versus 42%) and single (64% versus 23%). In addition, voluntary donors were less likely to have been sexually active than replacement donors (43% versus 13%). HIV prevalence was lower among voluntary donors than among FRD (2·6% versus 7·4%, P-value=0·07). The majority of blood donors in Kenya are voluntary with lower potential risk of TTI. © 2010 The Author(s). Vox Sanguinis © 2010 International Society of Blood Transfusion.

Status and Trends in U.S. Compliance and Voluntary Renewable Energy Certificate Markets (2010 Data)

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

Heeter, J.; Bird, L.

2011-10-01

This report documents the status and trends of 'compliance'--renewable energy certificate (REC) markets used to meet state renewable portfolio standard (RPS) requirements--and 'voluntary' markets--those in which consumers and institutions purchase renewable energy to match their electricity needs on a voluntary basis. Today, 29 states and the District of Columbia have an RPS, more than half of all U.S. electricity customers have an option to purchase some type of green power product directly from a retail electricity provider, and all consumers have the option to purchase RECs. This report documents REC activities and trends in the United States. The compliance RECmore » market analysis includes analysis of REC trading, regional REC markets, REC tracking systems, types of compliance RECs, compliance REC pricing trends, and an overview of compliance with RPS polices. The voluntary REC analysis presents data and analysis on voluntary market sales and customer participation, products and premiums, green pricing marketing and administrative expenses, voluntary REC pricing, and the voluntary carbon offsets market. The report concludes with a discussion of upcoming guidance from the Federal Trade Commission on green marketing claims, the emergence of community solar programs, and the potential impact of Dodd-Frank regulations on the REC market.« less

Plyometric training improves voluntary activation and strength during isometric, concentric and eccentric contractions.

PubMed

Behrens, Martin; Mau-Moeller, Anett; Mueller, Karoline; Heise, Sandra; Gube, Martin; Beuster, Nico; Herlyn, Philipp K E; Fischer, Dagmar-C; Bruhn, Sven

2016-02-01

This study investigated effects of plyometric training (6 weeks, 3 sessions/week) on maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) strength and neural activation of the knee extensors during isometric, concentric and eccentric contractions. Twenty-seven participants were randomly assigned to the intervention or control group. Maximum voluntary torques (MVT) during the different types of contraction were measured at 110° knee flexion (180°=full extension). The interpolated twitch technique was applied at the same knee joint angle during isometric, concentric and eccentric contractions to measure voluntary activation. In addition, normalized root mean square of the EMG signal at MVT was calculated. The twitch torque signal induced by electrical nerve stimulation at rest was used to evaluate training-related changes at the muscle level. In addition, jump height in countermovement jump was measured. After training, MVT increased by 20Nm (95% CI: 5-36Nm, P=0.012), 24Nm (95% CI: 9-40Nm, P=0.004) and 27Nm (95% CI: 7-48Nm, P=0.013) for isometric, concentric and eccentric MVCs compared to controls, respectively. The strength enhancements were associated with increases in voluntary activation during isometric, concentric and eccentric MVCs by 7.8% (95% CI: 1.8-13.9%, P=0.013), 7.0% (95% CI: 0.4-13.5%, P=0.039) and 8.6% (95% CI: 3.0-14.2%, P=0.005), respectively. Changes in the twitch torque signal of the resting muscle, induced by supramaximal electrical stimulation of the femoral nerve, were not observed, indicating no alterations at the muscle level, whereas jump height was increased. Given the fact that the training exercises consisted of eccentric muscle actions followed by concentric contractions, it is in particular relevant that the plyometric training increased MVC strength and neural activation of the quadriceps muscle regardless of the contraction mode. Copyright © 2015 Sports Medicine Australia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Biosynthesis of actinorhodin and related antibiotics: discovery of alternative routes for quinone formation encoded in the act gene cluster.

PubMed

Okamoto, Susumu; Taguchi, Takaaki; Ochi, Kozo; Ichinose, Koji

2009-02-27

All known benzoisochromanequinone (BIQ) biosynthetic gene clusters carry a set of genes encoding a two-component monooxygenase homologous to the ActVA-ORF5/ActVB system for actinorhodin biosynthesis in Streptomyces coelicolor A3(2). Here, we conducted molecular genetic and biochemical studies of this enzyme system. Inactivation of actVA-ORF5 yielded a shunt product, actinoperylone (ACPL), apparently derived from 6-deoxy-dihydrokalafungin. Similarly, deletion of actVB resulted in accumulation of ACPL, indicating a critical role for the monooxygenase system in C-6 oxygenation, a biosynthetic step common to all BIQ biosyntheses. Furthermore, in vitro, we showed a quinone-forming activity of the ActVA-ORF5/ActVB system in addition to that of a known C-6 monooxygenase, ActVA-ORF6, by using emodinanthrone as a model substrate. Our results demonstrate that the act gene cluster encodes two alternative routes for quinone formation by C-6 oxygenation in BIQ biosynthesis.

76 FR 28000 - Procurement List Proposed Additions and Deletions

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-05-13

... Contracting Activity: GSA/FSS Household and Industrial Furniture, Arlington, VA. Coverage: A-List for the... Development of Growth & Educational Services, Inc., Pomona, CA. Contracting Activity: General Services...

Influence of patterned electrical neuromuscular stimulation on quadriceps activation in individuals with knee joint injury.

PubMed

Glaviano, Neal R; Langston, William T; Hart, Joseph M; Saliba, Susan

2014-12-01

Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation is a common intervention to address muscle weakness, however presents with many limitations such as fatigue, muscle damage, and patient discomfort that may influence its effectiveness. One novel form of electrical stimulation purported to improve neuromuscular re-education is Patterned Electrical Neuromuscular Stimulation (PENS), which is proposed to mimic muscle-firing patterns of healthy individuals. PENS provides patterned stimulating to the agonist muscle, antagonist muscle and then agonist muscle again in an effort to replicate firing patterns. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of a single PENS treatment on knee extension torque and quadriceps activation in individuals with quadriceps inhibition. 18 subjects (10 males and 8 females: 24.2±3.4 years, 175.3±11.8cm, 81.8±12.4kg) with a history of knee injury/pain participated in this double-blinded randomized controlled laboratory trial. Participants demonstrated quadriceps inhibition with a central activation ratio of ≤90%. Maximal voluntary isometric contraction of the quadriceps and central activation ratio were measured before and after treatment. The treatment intervention was a 15-minute patterned electrical stimulation applied to the quadriceps and hamstring muscles with a strong motor contraction or a sham group, who received an identical set up as the PENS group, but received a 1mA subsensory stimulation. A 2×2 (group × time) ANCOVA was used to determine differences in maximal voluntary isometric contraction and central activation ratio between groups. The maximal voluntary isometric contraction was selected as a covariate due to baseline differences. There were no differences in change scores between pre- and post-intervention for maximal voluntary isometric contraction: (PENS: 0.09±0.32Nm/kg and Sham 0.15±0.18Nm/kg, p=0.713), or central activation ratio:(PENS: -1.22±6.06 and Sham: 1.48±3.7, p=0.270). A single Patterned Electrical Neuromuscular Stimulation treatment did not alter quadriceps central activation ratio or maximal voluntary isometric contraction. Unlike other types of muscle stimulation, PENS did not result in a reduction of quadriceps torque. Level III.

Skeletal muscle strength and endurance are maintained during moderate dehydration.

PubMed

Périard, J D; Tammam, A H; Thompson, M W

2012-08-01

This study investigated the effects of moderate dehydration (~2.5% body weight) on muscle strength and endurance using percutaneous electrical stimulation to quantify central and peripheral fatigue, and isolate the combined effects of exercise-heat stress and dehydration, vs. the effect of dehydration alone. Force production and voluntary activation were calculated in 10 males during 1 brief and 15 repeated maximal voluntary isometric contractions performed prior to (control) walking in the heat (35°C), immediately following exercise, and the next morning (dehydration). The protocol was also performed in a euhydrated state. During the brief contractions, force production and voluntary activation were maintained in all trials. In contrast, force production decreased throughout the repeated contractions, regardless of hydration status (P<0.001). The decline in force was greater immediately following exercise-heat stress dehydration compared with control and euhydration (P<0.001). When dehydration was isolated from acute post-exercise dehydration, force production was maintained similarly to control and euhydration. Despite the progressive decline in force production and the increased fatigability observed during the repeated contractions, voluntary activation remained elevated throughout each muscle function test. Therefore, moderate dehydration, isolated from acute exercise-heat stress, does not appear to influence strength during a single contraction or enhance fatigability. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

[Induced abortion and labor activity. Reflections for discussion].

PubMed

Orjuela-Ramírez, María E

2012-06-01

The induced abortion is a global phenomenon that according to various authors respond to socially constructed patterns of behavior and where they influence social realities of each country. This phenomenon requires the information necessary to understand the complex process leading to the decision of women to opt for abortion and able to understand the social, economic and health that can explain this requirement. For this purpose is presented for discussion, some considerations on voluntary abortion and labor activity of women who opt for this practice, with special mention of the situation in Spain. The arguments are supported by statistical analysis of the voluntary interruption of pregnancy (IVE) reported by the Ministry of Health and Social Policy, participation of women in the labor market in Spain obtained from the National Statistics Institute (INE), the research results on the association between employment status of women and voluntary termination of pregnancy and comprehensive review of scientific literature on the different perspectives of the approach of voluntary abortion. Analysis deserves special importance of women's work activity as a possible factor in the decision of women to terminate their pregnancies, a variable that has been identified in most of the investigations as a socioeconomic condition for women who choose for that alternative, considering that pregnancy interferes with the employment of women or, rather, prevents them from use.

NF-kB2/p52 Activation and Androgen Receptor Signaling in Prostate Cancer

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-08-01

for Information Operations and Reports (0704-0188), 1215 Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite 1204, Arlington, VA 22202- 4302. Respondents should be aware...Materials and Methods; ref. 38). Statistical analysis. Data are shown as the mean ± SD. Multiple group comparison was performed by one-way ANO- VA followed... Moroz , Byron Crawford, Asim Abdel-Mageed, New Orleans, LA INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: African American men (AA) have twice the incidence and mortality

To Use or Not to Use

PubMed Central

Washington, Donna L; Yano, Elizabeth M; Simon, Barbara; Sun, Su

2006-01-01

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Effects of advances in Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) women's health care on women veterans' health care decision making are unknown. Our objective was to determine why women veterans use or do not use VA health care. DESIGN AND PARTICIPANTS Cross-sectional survey of 2,174 women veteran VA users and VA-eligible nonusers throughout southern California and southern Nevada. MEASUREMENTS VA utilization, attitudes toward care, and socio-demographics. RESULTS Reasons cited for VA use included affordability (67.9%); women's health clinic (WHC) availability (58.8%); quality of care (54.8%); and convenience (47.9%). Reasons for choosing health care in non-VA settings included having insurance (71.0%); greater convenience of non-VA care (66.9%); lack of knowledge of VA eligibility and services (48.5%); and perceived better non-VA quality (34.5%). After adjustment for socio-demographics, health characteristics, and VA priority group, knowledge deficits about VA eligibility and services and perceived worse VA care quality predicted outside health care use. VA users were less likely than non-VA users to have after-hours access to nonemergency care, but more likely to receive both general and gender-related care from the same clinic or provider, to use a WHC for gender-related care, and to consider WHC availability very important. CONCLUSIONS Lack of information about VA, perceptions of VA quality, and inconvenience of VA care, are deterrents to VA use for many women veterans. VA WHCs may foster VA use. Educational campaigns are needed to fill the knowledge gap regarding women veterans' VA eligibility and advances in VA quality of care, while VA managers consider solutions to after-hours access barriers. PMID:16637939

Green Power Marketing in the United States. A Status Report (11th Edition)

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

Bird, Lori; Kreycik, Claire; Friedman, Barry

This report documents green power marketing activities and trends in the United States. It presents aggregate green power sales data for all voluntary purchase markets across the United States. It also provides summary data on utility green pricing programs offered in regulated electricity markets and green power marketing activity in competitive electricity markets, as well as green power sold to voluntary purchasers in the form of renewable energy certificates. Key market trends and issues are also discussed.

Green Power Marketing in the United States: A Status Report (11th Edition)

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

Bird, L.; Kreycik, C.; Friedman, B.

This report documents green power marketing activities and trends in the United States. It presents aggregate green power sales data for all voluntary purchase markets across the United States. It also provides summary data on utility green pricing programs offered in regulated electricity markets and green power marketing activity in competitive electricity markets, as well as green power sold to voluntary purchasers in the form of renewable energy certificates. Key market trends and issues are also discussed.

40 CFR Appendix A to Part 97 - Final Section 126 Rule: EGU Allocations, 2004-2007

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... VA POSSUM POINT 3804 4 528 VA POSSUM POINT 3804 5 322 VA POTOMAC RIVER 3788 1 203 VA POTOMAC RIVER 3788 2 139 VA POTOMAC RIVER 3788 3 232 VA POTOMAC RIVER 3788 4 223 VA POTOMAC RIVER 3788 5 222 VA SEI...

40 CFR Appendix A to Part 97 - Final Section 126 Rule: EGU Allocations, 2004-2007

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... VA POSSUM POINT 3804 4 528 VA POSSUM POINT 3804 5 322 VA POTOMAC RIVER 3788 1 203 VA POTOMAC RIVER 3788 2 139 VA POTOMAC RIVER 3788 3 232 VA POTOMAC RIVER 3788 4 223 VA POTOMAC RIVER 3788 5 222 VA SEI...

40 CFR Appendix A to Part 97 - Final Section 126 Rule: EGU Allocations, 2004-2007

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... VA POSSUM POINT 3804 4 528 VA POSSUM POINT 3804 5 322 VA POTOMAC RIVER 3788 1 203 VA POTOMAC RIVER 3788 2 139 VA POTOMAC RIVER 3788 3 232 VA POTOMAC RIVER 3788 4 223 VA POTOMAC RIVER 3788 5 222 VA SEI...

Use of verbal autopsy and social autopsy in humanitarian crises.

PubMed

Thomas, Lisa-Marie; D'Ambruoso, Lucia; Balabanova, Dina

2018-01-01

Two billion people live in countries affected by conflict, violence and fragility. These are exceptional situations in which mortality shifts dramatically and in which civil registration and vital statistics systems are often weakened or cease to function. Verbal autopsy and social autopsy (VA and SA) are methods used to assign causes of death and understand the contexts in which these occur, in settings where information is otherwise unavailable. This review sought to explore the use of VA and SA in humanitarian crises, with a focus on how these approaches are used to inform policy and programme responses. A rapid scoping review was conducted on the use of VA and SA in humanitarian crises in low and middle-income countries since 1991. Drawing on a maximum variation approach, two settings of application ('application contexts') were selected and investigated via nine semi-structured expert interviews. VA can determine causes of death in crisis-affected populations where no other registration system is in place. Combined with SA and active community involvement, these methods can deliver a holistic view of obstacles to seeking and receiving essential healthcare, yielding context-specific information to inform appropriate responses. The contexts in which VA and SA are used require adaptations to standard tools, and new mobile developments in VA raise specific ethical considerations. Furthermore, collecting and sythesising data in a timely, continuous manner, and ensuring coordination and communication between agencies, is important to realise the potential of these approaches. VA and SA are valuable research methods to foster evidence-informed responses for populations affected by humanitarian crises. When coordinated and communicated effectively, data generated through these methods can help to identify levels, causes and circumstances of deaths among vulnerable groups, and can enable planning and allocating resources effectively, potentially improving health system resilience to future crises.

Voluntary wheel running increases satellite cell abundance and improves recovery from disuse in gastrocnemius muscles from mice.

PubMed

Brooks, Matthew J; Hajira, Ameena; Mohamed, Junaith S; Alway, Stephen E

2018-06-01

Reloading of atrophied muscles after hindlimb suspension unloading (HSU) can induce injury and prolong recovery. Low-impact exercise, such as voluntary wheel running, has been identified as a nondamaging rehabilitation therapy in rodents, but its effects on muscle function, morphology, and satellite cell activity after HSU are unclear. This study tested the hypothesis that low-impact wheel running would increase satellite cell proliferation and improve recovery of muscle structure and function after HSU in mice. Young adult male and female C57BL/6 mice ( n = 6/group) were randomly placed into five groups. These included HSU without recovery (HSU), normal ambulatory recovery for 14 days after HSU (HSU+NoWR), and voluntary wheel running recovery for 14 days after HSU (HSU+WR). Two control groups were used: nonsuspended mouse cage controls (Control) and voluntary wheel running controls (ControlWR). Satellite cell activation was evaluated by providing mice 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU) in their drinking water. As expected, HSU significantly reduced in vivo maximal force, decreased in vivo fatigability, and decreased type I and IIa myosin heavy chain (MHC) abundance in plantarflexor muscles. HSU+WR mice significantly improved plantarflexor fatigue resistance, increased type I and IIa MHC abundance, increased fiber cross-sectional area, and increased the percentage of type I and IIA muscle fibers in the gastrocnemius muscle. HSU+WR mice also had a significantly greater percentage of BrdU-positive and Pax 7-positive nuclei inside muscle fibers and a greater MyoD-to-Pax 7 protein ratio compared with HSU+NoWR mice. The mechanotransduction protein Yes-associated protein (YAP) was elevated with reloading after HSU, but HSU+WR mice had lower levels of the inactive phosphorylated YAP serine127 , which may have contributed to increased satellite cell activation with reloading after HSU. These results indicate that voluntary wheel running increased YAP signaling and satellite cell activity after HSU and this was associated with improved recovery. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Although satellite cell involvement in muscle remodeling has been challenged, the data in this study suggest that voluntary wheel running increased satellite cell activity and suppressed Yes-associated protein (YAP) protein relative to no wheel running and this was associated with improved muscle recovery of force, fatigue resistance, expression of type I myosin heavy chain, and greater fiber cross-sectional area after disuse.

Is vaccenic acid (18:1t n-7) associated with an increased incidence of hip fracture? An explanation for the calcium paradox.

PubMed

Hamazaki, Kei; Suzuki, Nobuo; Kitamura, Kei-Ichiro; Hattori, Atsuhiko; Nagasawa, Tetsuro; Itomura, Miho; Hamazaki, Tomohito

2016-06-01

High calcium intake may increase hip fracture (HF) incidence. This phenomenon, known as the calcium paradox, might be explained by vaccenic acid (18:1t n-7, VA), the highly specific trans fatty acid (TFA) present in dairy products. First, we ecologically investigated the relationship between 18:1 TFA intake and HF incidence using data from 12 to 13 European countries collected before 2000; then we measured the effects of VA and elaidic acid (18:1t n-9, EA) on osteoblasts from goldfish scales (tissues very similar to mammalian bone), with alkaline phosphatase as a marker; and finally we measured the effect of VA on mRNA expression in the scales for the major bone proteins type I collagen and osteocalcin. HF incidence was significantly correlated with 18:1 TFA intake in men (r=0.57) and women (r=0.65). Incubation with 1μmol/L VA and EA for 48h significantly decreased alkaline phosphatase activity by 25% and 21%, respectively. Incubation of scales with 10μmol/L VA for 48h significantly decreased mRNA expression for type I collagen and osteocalcin (by about 50%). In conclusion, VA may be causatively related to HF and could explain the calcium paradox. It may be prudent to reduce 18:1 TFA intake, irrespective of trans positions, to prevent HF. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Macular morphology and visual acuity in the comparison of age-related macular degeneration treatments trials.

PubMed

Jaffe, Glenn J; Martin, Daniel F; Toth, Cynthia A; Daniel, Ebenezer; Maguire, Maureen G; Ying, Gui-Shuang; Grunwald, Juan E; Huang, Jiayan

2013-09-01

To describe the effects of treatment for 1 year with ranibizumab or bevacizumab on macular morphology and the association of macular morphology with visual acuity (VA) in eyes with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Prospective cohort study within a randomized clinical trial. Participants in the Comparison of Age-related Macular Degeneration Treatments Trials. Participants were assigned randomly to treatment with ranibizumab or bevacizumab on a monthly or as-needed schedule. Optical coherence tomography (OCT), fluorescein angiography (FA), color fundus photography (FP), and VA testing were performed periodically throughout 52 weeks. Masked readers graded images. General linear models were applied to evaluate effects of time and treatment on outcomes. Fluid type and location and thickness by OCT, size, and lesion composition on FP, FA, and VA. Intraretinal fluid (IRF), subretinal fluid (SRF), subretinal pigment epithelium fluid, and retinal, subretinal, and subretinal tissue complex thickness decreased in all treatment groups. A higher proportion of eyes treated monthly with ranibizumab had fluid resolution at 4 weeks, and the difference persisted through 52 weeks. At 52 weeks, there was little association between the presence of fluid of any type (without regard to fluid location) and the mean VA. However, at all time points, eyes with residual IRF, especially foveal IRF, had worse mean VA (9 letters) than those without IRF. Eyes with abnormally thin (<120 μm) or thick (>212 μm) retinas had worse VA than those with normal thickness (120-212 μm). At week 52, eyes with larger neovascular lesions or with foveal scar had worse VA than eyes without these features. Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy reduced lesion activity and improved VA in all treatment groups. At all time points, eyes with residual IRF had worse VA than those without. Eyes with abnormally thin or thick retinas, residual large lesions, and scar also had worse VA. Monthly ranibizumab dosing yielded more eyes with no fluid and an abnormally thin retina, although the long-term significance is unknown. These results have important treatment implications in eyes undergoing anti-VEGF therapy for neovascular AMD. Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found after the references. Copyright © 2013 American Academy of Ophthalmology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

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

PubMed

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

2016-01-01

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

Outcomes and Predictive Factors After Cataract Surgery in Patients With Neovascular Age-related Macular Degeneration. The Fight Retinal Blindness! Project.

PubMed

Daien, Vincent; Nguyen, Vuong; Morlet, Nigel; Arnold, Jennifer J; Essex, Rohan W; Young, Stephanie; Hunyor, Alex; Gillies, Mark C; Barthelmes, Daniel

2018-06-01

To evaluate outcomes and predictive factors of visual acuity (VA) change after cataract surgery in patients being treated for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). Retrospective, matched case-control study. We studied eyes undergoing cataract surgery that had been tracked since they first started treatment for nAMD. These eyes were compared with a cohort of unoperated phakic eyes being treated for nAMD (3 per case) matched for treatment duration before cataract surgery, baseline VA, age, and length of follow-up. We included 124 patients that had cataract surgery and 372 matched controls. The mean (95% confidence interval) VA gained was 10.6 letters (7.8, 13.2; P < .001) 12 months after surgery; 26.0% had gained ≥3 lines and 1.6% had lost ≥3 lines of VA. Visual acuity (mean [standard deviation]) 12 months after surgery was higher in eyes that had cataract extraction compared with controls (65.8 [17.1] vs 61.3 [20.8] letters, respectively, P = .018). The proportion of visits where the choroidal neovascular (CNV) lesion was graded active and the mean number of injections were similar before and after surgery (P = .506 and P = .316, respectively), whereas both decreased in the control group, suggesting that surgery modestly increased the level of activity of the CNV lesion. Mean [SD] VA prior to surgery was lower in eyes that gained ≥15 letters compared with eyes that gained 0-14 letters (40.2 [21.4] vs 62.1 [15.1], P < .001). Patients undergoing cataract surgery within the first 6 months of anti-VEGF therapy were more likely to lose rather than gain vision (20.8% lost vision vs 12.8% and 4.4% gaining ≥15 or 0-14 letters respectively, P = .023). Age, receiving an injection at least 2 weeks before surgery, and the CNV lesion type had no discernible association with VA outcomes. We found evidence of a modest effect of cataract surgery on CNV lesion activity in eyes being treated for nAMD. Despite this, visual outcomes were reassuringly good. Cataract surgery within 6 months of starting treatment for nAMD should be avoided if possible. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Empirical-Based Typology of Health Care Utilization by Medicare Eligible Veterans.

PubMed

Vaughan Sarrazin, Mary; Rosenthal, Gary E; Turvey, Carolyn L

2018-06-12

Up to 70 percent of patients who receive care through Veterans Health Administration (VHA) facilities also receive care from non-VA providers. Using applied classification techniques, this study sought to improve understanding of how elderly VA patients use VA services and complementary use of non-VA care. The study included 1,721,900 veterans age 65 and older who were enrolled in VA and Medicare during 2013 with at least one VA encounter during 2013. Outpatient and inpatient encounters and medications received in VA were classified, and mutually exclusive patient subsets distinguished by patterns of VA service use were derived empirically using latent class analysis (LCA). Patient characteristics and complementary use of non-VA care were compared by patient subset. Five patterns of VA service use were identified that were distinguished by quantity of VA medical and specialty services, medication complexity, and mental health services. Low VA Medical users tend to be healthier and rely on non-VA services, while High VA users have multiple high cost illnesses and concentrate their care in the VA. VA patients distinguished by patterns of VA service use differ in illness burden and the use of non-VA services. This information may be useful for framing efforts to optimize access to care and care coordination for elderly VA patients. © Health Research and Educational Trust.

Voluntary running, skeletal muscle gene expression, and signaling inversely regulated by orchidectomy and testosterone replacement.

PubMed

Ibebunjo, Chikwendu; Eash, John K; Li, Christine; Ma, QiCheng; Glass, David J

2011-02-01

Declines in skeletal muscle size and strength, often seen with chronic wasting diseases, prolonged or high-dose glucocorticoid therapy, and the natural aging process in mammals, are usually associated with reduced physical activity and testosterone levels. However, it is not clear whether the decline in testosterone and activity are causally related. Using a mouse model, we found that removal of endogenous testosterone by orchidectomy results in an almost complete cessation in voluntary wheel running but only a small decline in muscle mass. Testosterone replacement restored running behavior and muscle mass to normal levels. Orchidectomy also suppressed the IGF-I/Akt pathway, activated the atrophy-inducing E3 ligases MuRF1 and MAFBx, and suppressed several energy metabolism pathways, and all of these effects were reversed by testosterone replacement. The study also delineated a distinct, previously unidentified set of genes that is inversely regulated by orchidectomy and testosterone treatment. These data demonstrate the necessity of testosterone for both speed and endurance of voluntary wheel running in mice and suggest a potential mechanism for declined activity in humans where androgens are deficient.

Influence of voluntary control of masticatory side and rhythm on cerebral hemodynamics.

PubMed

Hasegawa, Yoko; Ono, Takahiro; Sakagami, Joe; Hori, Kazuhiro; Maeda, Yoshinobu; Hamasaki, Toshimitsu; Nokubi, Takashi

2011-02-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence on cerebral hemodynamics of voluntary control of masticatory side and rhythm during gum chewing. Blood flow velocity in the middle cerebral artery was measured using transcranial Doppler ultrasonography to evaluate cerebral circulation in healthy volunteers. Heart rate and masseter muscle activity were recorded simultaneously. Volunteers performed three tasks: (1) free gum chewing, (2) gum chewing in which mastication was limited to the right side, and (3) gum chewing in which mastication was limited to the right side and rhythm was set at 1.0 Hz. Changes in cerebral circulation during pre-task, on-task, and post-task periods were analyzed using random effects model, and differences in cerebral circulation and muscle activity between tasks were analyzed using the Friedman test. In all tasks, on-task cerebral circulation was greater than pre-task. Muscle activity and masticatory rhythm varied between tasks, whereas the rate of increase in cerebral circulation did not differ significantly among tasks. These results suggest that cerebral circulation is activated during gum chewing, irrespective of voluntary control of masticatory side and rhythm.

Odorant binding protein 69a connects social interaction to modulation of social responsiveness in Drosophila.

PubMed

Bentzur, Assa; Shmueli, Anat; Omesi, Liora; Ryvkin, Julia; Knapp, Jon-Michael; Parnas, Moshe; Davis, Fred P; Shohat-Ophir, Galit

2018-04-01

Living in a social environment requires the ability to respond to specific social stimuli and to incorporate information obtained from prior interactions into future ones. One of the mechanisms that facilitates social interaction is pheromone-based communication. In Drosophila melanogaster, the male-specific pheromone cis-vaccenyl acetate (cVA) elicits different responses in male and female flies, and functions to modulate behavior in a context and experience-dependent manner. Although it is the most studied pheromone in flies, the mechanisms that determine the complexity of the response, its intensity and final output with respect to social context, sex and prior interaction, are still not well understood. Here we explored the functional link between social interaction and pheromone-based communication and discovered an odorant binding protein that links social interaction to sex specific changes in cVA related responses. Odorant binding protein 69a (Obp69a) is expressed in auxiliary cells and secreted into the olfactory sensilla. Its expression is inversely regulated in male and female flies by social interactions: cVA exposure reduces its levels in male flies and increases its levels in female flies. Increasing or decreasing Obp69a levels by genetic means establishes a functional link between Obp69a levels and the extent of male aggression and female receptivity. We show that activation of cVA-sensing neurons is sufficeint to regulate Obp69a levels in the absence of cVA, and requires active neurotransmission between the sensory neuron to the second order olfactory neuron. The cross-talk between sensory neurons and non-neuronal auxiliary cells at the olfactory sensilla, represents an additional component in the machinery that promotes behavioral plasticity to the same sensory stimuli in male and female flies.

Hearing testing in the U.S. Department of Defense: Potential impact on Veterans Affairs hearing loss disability awards.

PubMed

Nelson, J T; Swan, A A; Swiger, B; Packer, M; Pugh, M J

2017-06-01

Hearing loss is the second most common disability awarded by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to former members of the U.S. uniformed services. Hearing readiness and conservation practices differ among the four largest uniformed military services (Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, and Navy). Utilizing a data set consisting of all hearing loss claims submitted to the VA from fiscal years 2003-2013, we examined characteristics of veterans submitting claims within one year of separation from military service. Our results indicate that having a hearing loss disability claim granted was significantly more likely for men, individuals over the age of 26 years at the time of the claim, individuals most recently serving in the U.S. Army, and those with at least one hearing loss diagnosis. Importantly, individuals with at least one test record in the Defense Occupational and Environmental Health Readiness System-Hearing Conservation (DOEHRS-HC) system were significantly less likely to have a hearing loss disability claim granted by the VA. Within the DOEHRS-HC cohort, those with at least one threshold shift or clinical hearing loss diagnosis while on active duty were more than two and three times more likely to have a hearing loss disability claim granted, respectively. These findings indicate that an established history of reduced hearing ability while on active duty was associated with a significantly increased likelihood of an approved hearing loss disability claim relative to VA claims without such a history. Further, our results show a persistent decreased rate of hearing loss disability awards overall. These findings support increased inclusion of personnel in DoD hearing readiness and conservation programs to reduce VA hearing loss disability awards. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Anodal transcranial direct current stimulation of the motor cortex increases cortical voluntary activation and neural plasticity.

PubMed

Frazer, Ashlyn; Williams, Jacqueline; Spittles, Michael; Rantalainen, Timo; Kidgell, Dawson

2016-11-01

We examined the cumulative effect of 4 consecutive bouts of noninvasive brain stimulation on corticospinal plasticity and motor performance, and whether these responses were influenced by the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) polymorphism. In a randomized double-blinded cross-over design, changes in strength and indices of corticospinal plasticity were analyzed in 14 adults who were exposed to 4 consecutive sessions of anodal and sham transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Participants also undertook a blood sample for BDNF genotyping (N = 13). We observed a significant increase in isometric wrist flexor strength with transcranial magnetic stimulation revealing increased corticospinal excitability, decreased silent period duration, and increased cortical voluntary activation compared with sham tDCS. The results show that 4 consecutive sessions of anodal tDCS increased cortical voluntary activation manifested as an improvement in strength. Induction of corticospinal plasticity appears to be influenced by the BDNF polymorphism. Muscle Nerve 54: 903-913, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

12 CFR 550.520 - What happens if I am placed in receivership or voluntary liquidation?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 5 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false What happens if I am placed in receivership or voluntary liquidation? 550.520 Section 550.520 Banks and Banking OFFICE OF THRIFT SUPERVISION, DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY FIDUCIARY POWERS OF SAVINGS ASSOCIATIONS Terminating Fiduciary Activities Receivership Or...

Sex-dependent effects of developmental exposure to bisphenol A and ethinyl estradiol on metabolic parameters and voluntary physical activity

PubMed Central

Johnson, S. A.; Painter, M. S.; Javurek, A. B.; Ellersieck, M. R.; Wiedmeyer, C. E.; Thyfault, J. P.; Rosenfeld, C. S.

2016-01-01

Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDC) have received considerable attention as potential obesogens. Past studies examining obesogenic potential of one widespread EDC, bisphenol A (BPA), have generally focused on metabolic and adipose tissue effects. However, physical inactivity has been proposed to be a leading cause of obesity. A paucity of studies has considered whether EDC, including BPA, affects this behavior. To test whether early exposure to BPA and ethinyl estradiol (EE, estrogen present in birth control pills) results in metabolic and such behavioral disruptions, California mice developmentally exposed to BPA and EE were tested as adults for energy expenditure (indirect calorimetry), body composition (echoMRI) and physical activity (measured by beam breaks and voluntary wheel running). Serum glucose and metabolic hormones were measured. No differences in body weight or food consumption were detected. BPA-exposed females exhibited greater variation in weight than females in control and EE groups. During the dark and light cycles, BPA females exhibited a higher average respiratory quotient than control females, indicative of metabolizing carbohydrates rather than fats. Various assessments of voluntary physical activity in the home cage confirmed that during the dark cycle, BPA and EE-exposed females were significantly less active in this setting than control females. Similar effects were not observed in BPA or EE-exposed males. No significant differences were detected in serum glucose, insulin, adiponectin and leptin concentrations. Results suggest that females developmentally exposed to BPA exhibit decreased motivation to engage in voluntary physical activity and altered metabolism of carbohydrates v. fats, which could have important health implications. PMID:26378919

Annual Historical Report - AMEDD Activities, Calendar Year 1986

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-01-01

experimentation . A method was devised to determine the heat transfer properties of the head by use of a copper model which is unique and allows independent ...Church, VA 22041 Commander US Army Training and Doctrine Command ATTN: ATCD-S ATCD-ATMD Fort Monroe, VA 23651 Commander US Army Test and Experimentation ...4500 m). Soldiers with less than 20 torr increase test have only a 40-50% probability of acute mountain sickness. Therefore, CPT at sea level may be used

Standard Engineering Installation Package for Dual Frequency Signaling Unit (DFSU).

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-03-15

Center, Cameron Station, Alexandria, VA 22314. Government activities may requisition copies oy writing to the Commander, Headquarters, Fort Huachuca, ATTN...Protective ac ground ins-alled: Yes No (1) All equipment crcunded to ac prozective g-ourd by separate wires: Y-s No Pigure 2-1. Sample Sita Surve) Ci- eck !st...20305 12 - Defense Documentation Center, Cameron Station, Alexandria, VA 22134 4 - 1st Signal Brigade USACC-Korea, APO San Francisco 96218 2 - USACC

Plasma antioxidant activity and vascular dementia.

PubMed

Ryglewicz, Danuta; Rodo, Maria; Kunicki, Piotr Krzysztof; Bednarska-Makaruk, Malgorzata; Graban, Alla; Lojkowska, Wanda; Wehr, Hanna

2002-11-15

Little is known about the role of antioxidant activity in the pathogenesis of stroke-associated neuronal damage and impairment following a stroke. Increased free radical formation together with reduced antioxidant defense may increase neuronal injury. A low concentration of antioxidants such as alpha-tocopherol may influence the development of post-stroke dementia. The aim of this study was to evaluate the level of alpha-tocopherol and susceptibility of LDL to oxidation in a group of patients with dementia in comparison to controls. In a group of 68 patients with dementia, according to DSM-IV criteria, 42 with vascular dementia (VaD), 26 with Alzheimer type of dementia (AD) and 46 age-matched persons, with no signs of cognitive disorders (control group), we measured lipids, alpha-tocopherol and the kinetics of LDL oxidation. The levels of triglycerides (TG) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) were significantly lower in patients with VaD in comparison to AD patients, but the atherogenic index was similar in both groups. alpha-Tocopherol was significantly lower in patients with VaD in comparison to patients with AD and controls: 9.9, 12.6 and 12.6 ng/ml, respectively, p<0.0001. Susceptibility of LDL to oxidation, measured by duration of lag phase did not reveal statistically significant differences between the groups. In patients with VaD, low levels of plasma alpha-tocopherol were observed, which indicate a reduced antioxidant defense in these subjects.

Palliative options of last resort: a comparison of voluntarily stopping eating and drinking, terminal sedation, physician-assisted suicide, and voluntary active euthanasia.

PubMed

Quill, T E; Lo, B; Brock, D W

1997-12-17

Palliative care is generally agreed to be the standard of care for the dying, but there remain some patients for whom intolerable suffering persists. In the face of ethical and legal controversy about the acceptability of physician-assisted suicide and voluntary active euthanasia, voluntarily stopping eating and drinking and terminal sedation have been proposed as ethically superior responses of last resort that do not require changes in professional standards or the law. The clinical and ethical differences and similarities between these 4 practices are critically compared in light of the doctrine of double effect, the active/passive distinction, patient voluntariness, proportionality between risks and benefits, and the physician's potential conflict of duties. Terminal sedation and voluntarily stopping eating and drinking would allow clinicians to remain responsive to a wide range of patient suffering, but they are ethically and clinically more complex and closer to physician-assisted suicide and voluntary active euthanasia than is ordinarily acknowledged. Safeguards are presented for any medical action that may hasten death, including determining that palliative care is ineffective, obtaining informed consent, ensuring diagnostic and prognostic clarity, obtaining an independent second opinion, and implementing reporting and monitoring processes. Explicit public policy about which of these practices are permissible would reassure the many patients who fear a bad death in their future and allow for a predictable response for the few whose suffering becomes intolerable in spite of optimal palliative care.

Herbal medicine as a promising therapeutic approach for the management of vascular dementia: A systematic literature review.

PubMed

Ghorani-Azam, Adel; Sepahi, Samaneh; Khodaverdi, Elham; Mohajeri, Seyed Ahmad

2018-05-22

Vascular dementia (VaD) generally refers to memory deficits and cognitive abnormalities that are resulted from vascular disease. In this study, we aimed to systematically review the literature wherein therapeutic effects of medicinal plants have been studied on VaD. A systematic literature search was performed in the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and other databases using VaD, and medicinal plants as key terms. No strict inclusion criteria were defined, and almost all clinical studies were included. A total of 524 articles were found, of which only 28 relevant articles with 3461 studied patients were included to this systematic review. The results showed that medicinal plants, particularly Sancaijiangtang and Ginkgo biloba could improve behavioral and psychological symptoms, working memory, Mini-Mental State Examination, and activities of daily living as well as neuropsychiatric features. It was also shown that the age, average progression of the disease, and the type of folk medicines effective in treating the disease are important factors in the management of VaD. The results of this review indicated that herbal therapy can be a potential candidate in the treatment of VaD; however, further studies are needed to confirm such efficiency. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

The Health and Social Isolation of American Veterans Denied Veterans Affairs Disability Compensation.

PubMed

Fried, Dennis Adrian; Passannante, Marian; Helmer, Drew; Holland, Bart K; Halperin, William E

2017-02-01

Authors comparatively analyzed health and social isolation between U.S. military veterans denied Veterans Affairs (VA) disability compensation and veterans awarded VA disability compensation. The 2001 National Survey of Veterans was used to create a sample of 4,522 veterans denied or awarded VA disability compensation. Using the Andersen health services utilization model as a conceptual framework, multivariate logistic regression was applied to assess relationships between VA disability compensation award status, three separate domains of health, and correlates of social isolation. Results indicate that denied applicants were more likely than those awarded to have poor overall health (odds ratio [OR] = 1.45, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.23, 1.70), and limitations in activities of daily living (OR = 1.12, 95% CI: 1.03, 1.21). Denied applicants' physical functioning (40.3) and mental functioning (41.2) composite summary scores were not clinically different from those of awarded applicants (39.0 and 40.1, respectively), indicating that both were comparably impaired. Veterans denied VA disability compensation had poor health and functional impairments. They also experienced poverty and isolation, suggesting that they may be in need of additional supportive services. Connecting veterans to community resources could be a vital service to provide to all veterans applying for disability compensation. © 2016 National Association of Social Workers.

Veratric acid ameliorates hyperlipidemia and oxidative stress in Wistar rats fed an atherogenic diet.

PubMed

Raja, Boobalan; Saravanakumar, Murugesan; Sathya, Gopal

2012-07-01

An investigation was made to reveal the protective effects of veratric acid (VA), a phenolic acid against atherogenic diet-induced hyperlipidemic rats. Male albino Wistar rats were fed with atherogenic diet (4% cholesterol, 1% cholic acid, and 0.5% 2-thiouracil) daily for 30 days and treated with VA (40 mg/kg body weight) daily for a period of 30 days. Rats fed with atherogenic diet showed significant (P < 0.05) elevation in the level of plasma lipids, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, oxidative stress markers (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, lipid peroxides) and significant (P < 0.05) reduction in the activities of enzymatic (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase) and non-enzymatic (vitamin C, vitamin E, and reduced glutathione) antioxidants in erythrocytes, plasma, and tissues (liver, kidney, and aorta). Oral administration of VA (40 mg/kg body weight) for 30 days to atherogenic diet fed rats markedly attenuates systolic, diastolic blood pressure and lipid peroxidation products. Further, VA treatment significantly improved enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants levels and showed beneficial effects on lipid profile in atherogenic diet rats. All the above alterations were supported by histopathological observations. These results indicate that oral administration of VA ameliorates atherogenic diet-induced hyperlipidemia in rats by its free radical scavenging; improving the antioxidants and lipid lowering properties.

Comparison of outcomes for veterans receiving dialysis care from VA and non-VA providers

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Demand for dialysis treatment exceeds its supply within the Veterans Health Administration (VA), requiring VA to outsource dialysis care by purchasing private sector dialysis for veterans on a fee-for-service basis. It is unclear whether outcomes are similar for veterans receiving dialysis from VA versus non-VA providers. We assessed the extent of chronic dialysis treatment utilization and differences in all-cause hospitalizations and mortality between veterans receiving dialysis from VA versus VA-outsourced providers. Methods We constructed a retrospective cohort of veterans in 2 VA regions who received chronic dialysis treatment financed by VA between January 2007 and December 2008. From VA administrative data, we identified veterans who received outpatient dialysis in (1) VA, (2) VA-outsourced settings, or (3) both (“dual”) settings. In adjusted analyses, we used two-part and logistic regression to examine associations between dialysis setting and all-cause hospitalization and mortality one-year from veterans’ baseline dialysis date. Results Of 1,388 veterans, 27% received dialysis exclusively in VA, 47% in VA-outsourced settings, and 25% in dual settings. Overall, half (48%) were hospitalized and 12% died. In adjusted analysis, veterans in VA-outsourced settings incurred fewer hospitalizations and shorter hospital stays than users of VA due to favorable selection. Dual-system dialysis patients had lower one-year mortality than veterans receiving VA dialysis. Conclusions VA expenditures for “buying” outsourced dialysis are high and increasing relative to “making” dialysis treatment within its own system. Outcomes comparisons inform future make-or-buy decisions and suggest the need for VA to consider veterans’ access to care, long-term VA savings, and optimal patient outcomes in its placement decisions for dialysis services. PMID:23327632

Comparison of outcomes for veterans receiving dialysis care from VA and non-VA providers.

PubMed

Wang, Virginia; Maciejewski, Matthew L; Patel, Uptal D; Stechuchak, Karen M; Hynes, Denise M; Weinberger, Morris

2013-01-18

Demand for dialysis treatment exceeds its supply within the Veterans Health Administration (VA), requiring VA to outsource dialysis care by purchasing private sector dialysis for veterans on a fee-for-service basis. It is unclear whether outcomes are similar for veterans receiving dialysis from VA versus non-VA providers. We assessed the extent of chronic dialysis treatment utilization and differences in all-cause hospitalizations and mortality between veterans receiving dialysis from VA versus VA-outsourced providers. We constructed a retrospective cohort of veterans in 2 VA regions who received chronic dialysis treatment financed by VA between January 2007 and December 2008. From VA administrative data, we identified veterans who received outpatient dialysis in (1) VA, (2) VA-outsourced settings, or (3) both ("dual") settings. In adjusted analyses, we used two-part and logistic regression to examine associations between dialysis setting and all-cause hospitalization and mortality one-year from veterans' baseline dialysis date. Of 1,388 veterans, 27% received dialysis exclusively in VA, 47% in VA-outsourced settings, and 25% in dual settings. Overall, half (48%) were hospitalized and 12% died. In adjusted analysis, veterans in VA-outsourced settings incurred fewer hospitalizations and shorter hospital stays than users of VA due to favorable selection. Dual-system dialysis patients had lower one-year mortality than veterans receiving VA dialysis. VA expenditures for "buying" outsourced dialysis are high and increasing relative to "making" dialysis treatment within its own system. Outcomes comparisons inform future make-or-buy decisions and suggest the need for VA to consider veterans' access to care, long-term VA savings, and optimal patient outcomes in its placement decisions for dialysis services.

Forced and voluntary exercise differentially affect brain and behavior.

PubMed

Leasure, J L; Jones, M

2008-10-15

The potential of physical exercise to decrease body weight, alleviate depression, combat aging and enhance cognition has been well-supported by research studies. However, exercise regimens vary widely across experiments, raising the question of whether there is an optimal form, intensity and duration of exertion that would produce maximal benefits. In particular, a comparison of forced and voluntary exercise is needed, since the results of several prior studies suggest that they may differentially affect brain and behavior. In the present study, we employed a novel 8-week exercise paradigm that standardized the distance, pattern, equipment and housing condition of forced and voluntary exercisers. Exercising rats were then compared with sedentary controls on measures previously shown to be influenced by physical activity. Our results indicate that although the distance covered by both exercise groups was the same, voluntary exercisers ran at higher speed and for less total time than forced exercisers. When compared with sedentary controls, forced but not voluntary exercise was found to increase anxiety-like behaviors in the open field. Both forms of exercise increased the number of surviving bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU)+ cells in the dentate gyrus after 8 weeks of exercise, although forced exercisers had significantly more than voluntary exercisers. Phenotypic analysis of BrdU+ cells showed no difference between groups in the percentage of newborn cells that became neurons, however, because forced exercise maximally increased the number of BrdU+ cells, it ultimately produced more neurons than voluntary exercise. Our results indicate that forced and voluntary exercise are inherently different: voluntary wheel running is characterized by rapid pace and short duration, whereas forced exercise involves a slower, more consistent pace for longer periods of time. This basic difference between the two forms of exercise is likely responsible for their differential effects on brain and behavior.

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

PubMed

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

2007-01-15

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

The biological control of voluntary exercise, spontaneous physical activity and daily energy expenditure in relation to obesity: human and rodent perspectives

PubMed Central

Garland, Theodore; Schutz, Heidi; Chappell, Mark A.; Keeney, Brooke K.; Meek, Thomas H.; Copes, Lynn E.; Acosta, Wendy; Drenowatz, Clemens; Maciel, Robert C.; van Dijk, Gertjan; Kotz, Catherine M.; Eisenmann, Joey C.

2011-01-01

Mammals expend energy in many ways, including basic cellular maintenance and repair, digestion, thermoregulation, locomotion, growth and reproduction. These processes can vary tremendously among species and individuals, potentially leading to large variation in daily energy expenditure (DEE). Locomotor energy costs can be substantial for large-bodied species and those with high-activity lifestyles. For humans in industrialized societies, locomotion necessary for daily activities is often relatively low, so it has been presumed that activity energy expenditure and DEE are lower than in our ancestors. Whether this is true and has contributed to a rise in obesity is controversial. In humans, much attention has centered on spontaneous physical activity (SPA) or non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT), the latter sometimes defined so broadly as to include all energy expended due to activity, exclusive of volitional exercise. Given that most people in Western societies engage in little voluntary exercise, increasing NEAT may be an effective way to maintain DEE and combat overweight and obesity. One way to promote NEAT is to decrease the amount of time spent on sedentary behaviours (e.g. watching television). The effects of voluntary exercise on other components of physical activity are highly variable in humans, partly as a function of age, and have rarely been studied in rodents. However, most rodent studies indicate that food consumption increases in the presence of wheels; therefore, other aspects of physical activity are not reduced enough to compensate for the energetic cost of wheel running. Most rodent studies also show negative effects of wheel access on body fat, especially in males. Sedentary behaviours per se have not been studied in rodents in relation to obesity. Several lines of evidence demonstrate the important role of dopamine, in addition to other neural signaling networks (e.g. the endocannabinoid system), in the control of voluntary exercise. A largely separate literature points to a key role for orexins in SPA and NEAT. Brain reward centers are involved in both types of physical activities and eating behaviours, likely leading to complex interactions. Moreover, voluntary exercise and, possibly, eating can be addictive. A growing body of research considers the relationships between personality traits and physical activity, appetite, obesity and other aspects of physical and mental health. Future studies should explore the neurobiology, endocrinology and genetics of physical activity and sedentary behaviour by examining key brain areas, neurotransmitters and hormones involved in motivation, reward and/or the regulation of energy balance. PMID:21177942

A Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungus (Glomus intraradix) Induces a Defense Response in Alfalfa Roots.

PubMed

Volpin, H.; Elkind, Y.; Okon, Y.; Kapulnik, Y.

1994-02-01

Flavonoid accumulation and activities of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), chalcone isomerase (CHI), and chitinase were followed during early colonization of alfalfa roots (Medicago sativa L. cv Gilboa) by vesicular arbuscular (VA) fungi (Glomus intraradix). Formononetin was the only flavonoid detected that showed a consistent increase in the inoculated roots. This increase depended only on the presence of the fungus in the plant rhizosphere; no colonization of the root tissue was required. CHI and chitinase activities increased in inoculated roots prior to colonization, whereas the increase in PAL activity coincided with colonization. After reaching a maximum, activities of all enzymes declined to below those of uninoculated roots. PAL inactivation was not caused by a soluble inhibitor. Our results indicate that VA fungi initiate a host defense response in alfalfa roots, which is subsequently suppressed.

Uncaria rhynchophylla and Rhynchophylline inhibit c-Jun N-terminal kinase phosphorylation and nuclear factor-kappaB activity in kainic acid-treated rats.

PubMed

Hsieh, Ching-Liang; Ho, Tin-Yun; Su, Shan-Yu; Lo, Wan-Yu; Liu, Chung-Hsiang; Tang, Nou-Ying

2009-01-01

Our previous studies have shown that Uncaria rhynchophylla (UR) can reduce epileptic seizures. We hypothesized that UR and its major component rhynchophylline (RH), reduce epileptic seizures in rats treated with kainic acid (KA) by inhibiting nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) and activator-protein-1 (AP-1) activity, and by eliminating superoxide anions. Therefore, the level of superoxide anions and the DNA binding activities of NF-kappaB and AP-1 were measured. Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were pre-treated with UR (1.0 g/kg, i.p.), RH (0.25 mg/kg, i.p.), or valproic acid (VA, 250 mg/kg, i.p.) for 3 days and then KA was administered intra-peritoneal (i.p.). The results indicated that UR, RH, and VA can reduce epileptic seizures and the level of superoxide anions in the blood. Furthermore, KA was demonstrated to induce the DNA binding activities of NF-kappaB and AP-1. However, these inductions were inhibited by pre-treatment with UR, RH, or VA for 3 days. Moreover, UR and RH were shown to be involved in the suppression of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) phosphorylation. This study suggested that UR and RH have antiepileptic effects in KA-induced seizures and are associated with the regulation of the innate immune system via a reduction in the level of superoxide anions, JNK phosphorylation, and NF-kappaB activation.

Postural adjustments associated with voluntary contraction of leg muscles in standing man.

PubMed

Nardone, A; Schieppati, M

1988-01-01

The postural adjustments associated with a voluntary contraction of the postural muscles themselves have been studied in the legs of normal standing men. We focussed on the following questions. Do postural adjustments precede the focal movement as in the case of movements of the upper limb? Which muscle(s) are involved in the task of stabilizing posture? Can the same postural muscle be activated in postural stabilization and in voluntary movement at the same time, in spite of the opposite changes in activity possibly required by these conditions? Six subjects standing on a dynamometric platform were asked to rise onto the tips their toes by contracting their soleus muscles, or to rock on their heels by contracting their tibialis anterior muscles. The tasks were made in a reaction time (RT) situation or in a self-paced mode, standing either freely or holding onto a stable structure. Surface EMGs of leg and thigh muscles, and the foot-floor reaction forces were recorded. The following results were obtained in the RT mode, standing freely. 1. Rising onto toe tips: a striking silent period in soleus preceded its voluntary activation; during this silent period, a tibialis anterior burst could be observed in three subjects; these anticipatory activities induced a forward sway, as monitored by a change in the force exerted along the x axis of the platform. 2. Rocking on heels: an enhancement in tonic EMG of soleus was observed before tibialis anterior voluntary burst, at a mean latency from the go-signal similar to that of the silent period; this anticipatory activity induced a backward body sway. 3. Choice RT conditions showed that the above anticipatory patterns in muscle activity were pre-programmed, specific for the intended tasks, and closely associated with the focal movement. When both tasks were performed in a self-paced mode, all the above EMG and mechanical features were more pronounced and unfolded in time. If the subjects held onto the frame, the early features in the soleus or tibialis anterior EMG were absent, and the corresponding changes in the foot-floor reaction forces were lacking. The anticipatory phenomena observed are considered postural adjustments because they appear only in the free-standing situation, and induce a body sway in the appropriate direction to counteract the destabilizing thrust due to the voluntary contraction of soleus or tibialis anterior. The central organization and descending control of posture and movements are briefly discussed in the light of the short latency of the anticipatory phenomena and of their close association with the focal movement.

Factors related to attrition from VA healthcare use: findings from the National Survey of Women Veterans.

PubMed

Hamilton, Alison B; Frayne, Susan M; Cordasco, Kristina M; Washington, Donna L

2013-07-01

While prior research characterizes women Veterans' barriers to accessing and using Veterans Health Administration (VA) care, there has been little attention to women who access VA and use services, but then discontinue use. Recent data suggest that among women Veterans, there is a 30 % attrition rate within 3 years of initial VA use. To compare individual characteristics and perceptions about VA care between women Veteran VA attriters (those who discontinue use) and non-attriters (those who continue use), and to compare recent versus remote attriters. Cross-sectional, population-based 2008-2009 national telephone survey. Six hundred twenty-six attriters and 2,065 non-attriters who responded to the National Survey of Women Veterans. Population weighted demographic, military and health characteristics; perceptions about VA healthcare; length of time since last VA use; among attriters, reasons for no longer using VA care. Fifty-four percent of the weighted VA ever user population reported that they no longer use VA. Forty-five percent of attrition was within the past ten years. Attriters had better overall health (p = 0.007), higher income (p < 0.001), and were more likely to have health insurance (p < 0.001) compared with non-attriters. Attriters had less positive perceptions of VA than non-attriters, with attriters having lower ratings of VA quality and of gender-specific features of VA care (p < 0.001). Women Veterans who discontinued VA use since 2001 did not differ from those with more remote VA use on most measures of VA perceptions. Overall, among attriters, distance to VA sites of care and having alternate insurance coverage were the most common reasons for discontinuing VA use. We found high VA attrition despite recent advances in VA care for women Veterans. Women's attrition from VA could reduce the critical mass of women Veterans in VA and affect current system-wide efforts to provide high-quality care for women Veterans. An understanding of reasons for attrition can inform organizational efforts to re-engage women who have attrited, to retain current users, and potentially to attract new VA patients.

Impact of high-fat diet and voluntary running on body weight and endothelial function in LDL receptor knockout mice.

PubMed

Langbein, Heike; Hofmann, Anja; Brunssen, Coy; Goettsch, Winfried; Morawietz, Henning

2015-05-01

Obesity and physical inactivity are important cardiovascular risk factors. Regular physical exercise has been shown to mediate beneficial effects in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. However, the impact of physical exercise on endothelial function in proatherosclerotic low-density lipoprotein receptor deficient (LDLR(-/-)) mice has not been studied so far. Six-week-old male LDLR(-/-) mice were fed a standard diet or a high-fat diet (39 kcal% fat diet) for 20 weeks. The impact of high-fat diet and voluntary running on body weight and amount of white adipose tissue was monitored. Basal tone and endothelial function was investigated in aortic rings using a Mulvany myograph. LDLR(-/-) mice on high-fat diet had increased cumulative food energy intake, but also higher physical activity compared to mice on control diet. Body weight and amount of visceral and retroperitoneal white adipose tissue of LDLR(-/-) mice were significantly increased by high-fat diet and partially reduced by voluntary running. Endothelial function in aortae of LDLR(-/-) mice was impaired after 20 weeks on standard and high-fat diet and could not be improved by voluntary running. Basal tone showed a trend to be increased by high-fat diet. Voluntary running reduced body weight and amount of white adipose tissue in LDLR(-/-) mice. Endothelial dysfunction in LDLR(-/-) mice could not be improved by voluntary running. In a clinical context, physical exercise alone might not have an influence on functional parameters and LDL-C levels in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia. However, physical activity in these patients may be in general beneficial and should be performed. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Aspects of respiratory muscle fatigue in a mountain ultramarathon race.

PubMed

Wüthrich, Thomas U; Marty, Julia; Kerherve, Hugo; Millet, Guillaume Y; Verges, Samuel; Spengler, Christina M

2015-03-01

Ultramarathon running offers a unique possibility to investigate the mechanisms contributing to the limitation of endurance performance. Investigations of locomotor muscle fatigue show that central fatigue is a major contributor to the loss of strength in the lower limbs after an ultramarathon. In addition, respiratory muscle fatigue is known to limit exercise performance, but only limited data are available on changes in respiratory muscle function after ultramarathon running and it is not known whether the observed impairment is caused by peripheral and/or central fatigue. In 22 experienced ultra-trail runners, we assessed respiratory muscle strength, i.e., maximal voluntary inspiratory and expiratory pressures, mouth twitch pressure (n = 16), and voluntary activation (n = 16) using cervical magnetic stimulation, lung function, and maximal voluntary ventilation before and after a 110-km mountain ultramarathon with 5862 m of positive elevation gain. Both maximal voluntary inspiratory (-16% ± 13%) and expiratory pressures (-21% ± 14%) were significantly reduced after the race. Fatigue of inspiratory muscles likely resulted from substantial peripheral fatigue (reduction in mouth twitch pressure, -19% ± 15%; P < 0.01), as voluntary activation (-3% ± 6%, P = 0.09) only tended to be decreased, suggesting negligible or only mild levels of central fatigue. Forced vital capacity remained unchanged, whereas forced expiratory volume in 1 s, peak inspiratory and expiratory flow rates, and maximal voluntary ventilation were significantly reduced (P < 0.05). Ultraendurance running reduces respiratory muscle strength for inspiratory muscles shown to result from significant peripheral muscle fatigue with only little contribution of central fatigue. This is in contrast to findings in locomotor muscles. Whether this difference between muscle groups results from inherent neuromuscular differences, their specific pattern of loading or other reasons remain to be clarified.

Hospital Distance and Readmissions Among VA-Medicare Dual-Enrolled Veterans.

PubMed

Wong, Edwin S; Rinne, Seppo T; Hebert, Paul L; Cook, Meredith A; Liu, Chuan-Fen

2016-09-01

Geographic access to inpatient care at the Veterans Affairs (VA) Health Care System is challenging for many veterans with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) given relatively few VA hospitals nationwide. Veterans with lengthy travel distances may obtain non-VA care, particularly those dually enrolled in Medicare. Our primary objective was to assess whether distance from VA patients' residence to the nearest VA and non-VA hospitals was associated with 30-day all-cause readmission and the system where patients were readmitted (VA or Medicare). Using VA and Medicare administrative data, we identified 21,273 patients hospitalized for COPD between October 2008 and September 2011 and dually enrolled in VA and fee-for-service Medicare. Outcome variables were dichotomous measures denoting readmission for any cause within 30 days following discharge and whether the readmission occurred in a non-VA hospital through Medicare. Distance to the nearest hospital was defined as the number of miles between patients' residence ZIP code and the ZIP code of the nearest VA and non-VA hospital accepting Medicare, respectively. Probit models with sample selection were applied to examine the relationship between hospital distance and outcome measures. Respective distances to the nearest VA and non-VA hospital were not associated with 30-day all-cause readmission. Greater distance to the nearest VA hospital was associated with a greater conditional probability of choosing non-VA hospitals for readmission. COPD patients with poor geographic access to VA hospitals did not forgo subsequent inpatient care following their index hospitalization, but they were more likely to seek non-VA substitutes. © 2016 National Rural Health Association.

Enhanced health event detection and influenza surveillance using a joint Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense biosurveillance application

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background The establishment of robust biosurveillance capabilities is an important component of the U.S. strategy for identifying disease outbreaks, environmental exposures and bioterrorism events. Currently, U.S. Departments of Defense (DoD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) perform biosurveillance independently. This article describes a joint VA/DoD biosurveillance project at North Chicago-VA Medical Center (NC-VAMC). The Naval Health Clinics-Great Lakes facility physically merged with NC-VAMC beginning in 2006 with the full merger completed in October 2010 at which time all DoD care and medical personnel had relocated to the expanded and remodeled NC-VAMC campus and the combined facility was renamed the Lovell Federal Health Care Center (FHCC). The goal of this study was to evaluate disease surveillance using a biosurveillance application which combined data from both populations. Methods A retrospective analysis of NC-VAMC/Lovell FHCC and other Chicago-area VAMC data was performed using the ESSENCE biosurveillance system, including one infectious disease outbreak (Salmonella/Taste of Chicago-July 2007) and one weather event (Heat Wave-July 2006). Influenza-like-illness (ILI) data from these same facilities was compared with CDC/Illinois Sentinel Provider and Cook County ESSENCE data for 2007-2008. Results Following consolidation of VA and DoD facilities in North Chicago, median number of visits more than doubled, median patient age dropped and proportion of females rose significantly in comparison with the pre-merger NC-VAMC facility. A high-level gastrointestinal alert was detected in July 2007, but only low-level alerts at other Chicago-area VAMCs. Heat-injury alerts were triggered for the merged facility in June 2006, but not at the other facilities. There was also limited evidence in these events that surveillance of the combined population provided utility above and beyond the VA-only and DoD-only components. Recorded ILI activity for NC-VAMC/Lovell FHCC was more pronounced in the DoD component, likely due to pediatric data in this population. NC-VAMC/Lovell FHCC had two weeks of ILI activity exceeding both the Illinois State and East North Central Regional baselines, whereas Hines VAMC had one and Jesse Brown VAMC had zero. Conclusions Biosurveillance in a joint VA/DoD facility showed potential utility as a tool to improve surveillance and situational awareness in an area with Veteran, active duty and beneficiary populations. Based in part on the results of this pilot demonstration, both agencies have agreed to support the creation of a combined VA/DoD ESSENCE biosurveillance system which is now under development. PMID:21929813

Cortical Activation Patterns Evoked by Temporally Asymmetric Sounds and Their Modulation by Learning

PubMed Central

Horikawa, Junsei

2017-01-01

When complex sounds are reversed in time, the original and reversed versions are perceived differently in spectral and temporal dimensions despite their identical duration and long-term spectrum-power profiles. Spatiotemporal activation patterns evoked by temporally asymmetric sound pairs demonstrate how the temporal envelope determines the readout of the spectrum. We examined the patterns of activation evoked by a temporally asymmetric sound pair in the primary auditory field (AI) of anesthetized guinea pigs and determined how discrimination training modified these patterns. Optical imaging using a voltage-sensitive dye revealed that a forward ramped-down natural sound (F) consistently evoked much stronger responses than its time-reversed, ramped-up counterpart (revF). The spatiotemporal maximum peak (maxP) of F-evoked activation was always greater than that of revF-evoked activation, and these maxPs were significantly separated within the AI. Although discrimination training did not affect the absolute magnitude of these maxPs, the revF-to-F ratio of the activation peaks calculated at the location where hemispheres were maximally activated (i.e., F-evoked maxP) was significantly smaller in the trained group. The F-evoked activation propagated across the AI along the temporal axis to the ventroanterior belt field (VA), with the local activation peak within the VA being significantly larger in the trained than in the naïve group. These results suggest that the innate network is more responsive to natural sounds of ramped-down envelopes than their time-reversed, unnatural sounds. The VA belt field activation might play an important role in emotional learning of sounds through its connections with amygdala. PMID:28451640

Muscle deoxygenation and neural drive to the muscle during repeated sprint cycling.

PubMed

Racinais, Sébastien; Bishop, David; Denis, Romain; Lattier, Grégory; Mendez-Villaneuva, Alberto; Perrey, Stéphane

2007-02-01

To investigate muscle deoxygenation and neural drive-related changes during repeated cycling sprints in a fatiguing context. Nine healthy male subjects performed a repeated-sprint test (consisting of 10 x 6-s maximal sprints interspaced by 30 s of recovery). Oxygen uptake was measured breath-by-breath; muscle deoxygenation of the vastus lateralis was assessed continuously using the near-infrared spectroscopy technique. Surface electromyograms (RMS) of both vastus lateralis and biceps femoris were also recorded. Furthermore, before and after the repeated-sprint test, the percentage of muscle activation by voluntary drive (twitch-interpolated method) was measured during a maximal voluntary contraction. Consistent with previous research, our data showed a significant power decrement during repeated-sprint exercise. There was also a progressive muscle deoxygenation, but our data showed that the ability of the subjects to use available O2 throughout the entire repeated-sprint test was well preserved. Our data displayed a significant decrement in the RMS activity during the acceleration phase of each sprint across the repeated-sprint exercise. Moreover, decrement in motor drive was confirmed after exercise by a significant decrease in both percentage of voluntary activation and RMS/M-wave ratio during a maximal voluntary contraction. In this experimental design, our findings suggest that the ability to repeat short-duration (6 s) sprints was associated with the occurrence of both peripheral and central fatigue.

Teacher-Child Interactions in Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten Programs in Child Care Settings: A Critical Analysis of Barriers and Facilitators

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kim, Seunghee

2008-01-01

We investigated barriers to and facilitators of effective teacher-child interactions in voluntary pre-kindergarten programs in child care settings. An effective teacher-child interaction enables both teachers and children to actively engage in solving the problems they confront in their daily lives. The effective teacher-child interaction relies…

Voluntary Interdistrict Coordinating Council for the Settlement Agreement, Second Report to the Federal District Court, Eastern District of Missouri.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

DeClue, James A.; Uchitelle, Susan

Progress made during 1984-85 in the implementation of a student transfer desegregation plan in St. Louis, Missouri, and surrounding counties, is described and evaluated in this report. Focus is on the activities of the two bodies which assumed responsibility for administering the plan, the Voluntary Interdistrict Coordinating Council (VICC) and…

Community College Fundraising: The Voluntary Support of Education Survey as a Sampling Tool for Research

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wagoner, Richard L.; Besikof, Rudolph J.

2011-01-01

This article describes the Voluntary Support for Education (VSE) Survey, an instrument created by the Council for Aid to Education. Our objective is to explain VSE's potential value as a tool to inform both institutional and academic research regarding fund-raising activities at community colleges. Of particular interest is how the data available…

Voluntary Running Depreciates the Requirement of Ca[superscript 2+]-Stimulated cAMP Signaling in Synaptic Potentiation and Memory Formation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zheng, Fei; Zhang, Ming; Ding, Qi; Sethna, Ferzin; Yan, Lily; Moon, Changjong; Yang, Miyoung; Wang, Hongbing

2016-01-01

Mental health and cognitive functions are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Although having active lifestyle with physical exercise improves learning and memory, how it interacts with the specific key molecular regulators of synaptic plasticity is largely unknown. Here, we examined the effects of voluntary running on long-term…

Effects of voluntary running and soy supplementation on diet-induced metabolic disturbances and inflammation in mice

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The present study investigated the effects of voluntary running and soy supplementation on diet-induced metabolic disturbance and inflammation in male C57BL/6 mice using a 2x2x2 design in which the effects of diet (AIN93G or its modification with 45% calories from fat), activity level (sedentary or ...

Soy protein is beneficial but high-fat diet and voluntary running are detrimental to bone structure in mice

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

We investigated the effects of diet (AIN93G or high-fat), physical activity (sedentary or voluntary running) and protein source (casein or soy protein isolate) and their interactions on bone microstructural changes in distal femurs in male C57BL/6 mice by using micro-computed tomography. After 14 w...

Voluntary control over prestimulus activity related to encoding

PubMed Central

Gruber, Matthias J.; Otten, Leun J.

2010-01-01

A new development in our understanding of human long-term memory is that effective memory formation relies on neural activity just before an event. It is unknown whether such prestimulus activity is under voluntary control or a reflection of random fluctuations over time. In the present study, we addressed two issues: (i) whether prestimulus activity is influenced by an individual's motivation to encode, and (ii) at what point in time encoding-related activity emerges. Electrical brain activity was recorded while healthy male and female adults memorized series of words. Each word was preceded by a cue, which indicated the monetary reward that would be received if the following word was later remembered. Memory was tested after a short delay with a five-way recognition task to separate different sources of recognition. Electrical activity elicited by the reward cue predicted later memory of a word. Crucially, however, this was only observed when the incentive to memorize a word was high. Encoding-related activity preceded high reward words that were later recollected. This activity started shortly after cue onset and persisted until word onset. Prestimulus activity thus not only signals cue-related processing, but also an ensuing preparatory state. In contrast, reward-related activity was limited to the time period immediately following the reward cue. These findings indicate that engaging neural activity that benefits the encoding of an upcoming event is under voluntary control, reflecting a strategic preparatory state in anticipation of processing an event. PMID:20660262

Federal Health Care Center: VA and DOD Need to Address Ongoing Difficulties and Better Prepare for Future Integrations

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-02-01

Based on Small- Group Interviews with Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center (FHCC) Staff, April–May 2015 34 Figure 7: Comparison of...Effects of Workforce Integration on Staff Efficiency, Quality of Work, and Job Satisfaction between Civilian and Active Duty Staff, Based on Small- Group ...Integration on Daily Work Based on Small- Group Interviews with Captain Page iii GAO-16-280 VA and DOD Federal Health Care Center

[Effects of care experience to the attitude of active euthanasia among the Austrian population–a cross sectional study].

PubMed

Sohar, Birgit; Großschädl, Franziska; Meier, Isabella Maria; Stronegger, Willibald Julius

2015-12-01

Attitudes towards active euthanasia by request of competent patients who are seriously or incurable ill people are common in public debates. There is still a lack of knowledge on how people with care experience differ in their attitudes towards active euthanasia from those without. The aim of this study is to find out if and how care experience has an effect on the attitude toward voluntary active euthanasia. In spring 2014 a cross-sectional survey was conducted among the Austrian population by a self-developed questionnaire (on basis of a qualitative pilot study). An online-survey was distributed among persons aged 16 to 65 years and a postal survey among those aged 65 years and older (n=725). Descriptive data was analysed with IBM SPSS Version 2.0. Ethical approval has been provided by the Medical University Graz. 48% of the respondents have experience with care, 8.6% as physicians or nurses, 43.7% as family caregiver and 50% as not caring relatives. Multiple answers were possible. People with caring experience–as nurses or family caregiver–show a significantly lower approval of voluntary active euthanasia (p=0.04). Care experiences have an impact on the attitude towards voluntary active euthanasia. Thus, experiences of caring should be better included in end-of-life debates.

Practical partnered research to improve weight loss among overweight/obese veterans: lessons from the trenches.

PubMed

AuYoung, Mona; Damschroder, Laura J; Kinsinger, Linda; Moin, Tannaz; Richardson, Caroline R

2017-03-29

Obesity and obesity-related conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, are a major issue for Veteran health. Veterans Health Administration (VA) researchers and health systems leaders have worked separately and together to provide more effective weight management programs for Veterans. Although randomized clinical trials are often considered the gold standard for establishing efficacy of interventions in controlled circumstances, pragmatic clinical trials (PCTs) provide agility for translation. VA researchers and health system leaders collaboratively designed a PCT to compare the Diabetes Prevention Program (VA-DPP) to usual care (MOVE!®) in promoting weight loss and glycemic control among overweight/obese Veterans with prediabetes. Together, they navigated the tensions that exist between quality improvement and research activities, facing challenges but reaping significant rewards. Early findings led to updated national guidance for delivering obesity treatment in VA. Partnered research and the use of PCTs can be powerful strategies for accelerating evidence-based findings into practice. Collaborative partnerships between researchers and health systems leaders can help enhance and sustain translation in real-world settings.

Aerosol Vacuum-Assisted Plasma Ionization (Aero-VaPI) Coupled to Ion Mobility-Mass Spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blair, Sandra L.; Ng, Nga L.; Zambrzycki, Stephen C.; Li, Anyin; Fernández, Facundo M.

2018-02-01

In this communication, we report on the real-time analysis of organic aerosol particles by Vacuum-assisted Plasma Ionization-Mass Spectrometry (Aero-VaPI-MS) using a home-built VaPI ion source coupled to a Synapt G2-S HDMS ion mobility-mass spectrometry (IM-MS) system. Standards of organic molecules of interest in prebiotic chemistry were used to generate aerosols. Monocaprin and decanoic acid aerosol particles were successfully detected in both the positive and negative ion modes, respectively. A complex aerosol mixture of different sizes of polymers of L-malic acid was also examined through ion mobility (IM) separations, resulting in the detection of polymers of up to eight monomeric units. This noncommercial plasma ion source is proposed as a low cost alternative to other plasma ionization platforms used for aerosol analysis, and a higher-performance alternative to more traditional aerosol mass spectrometers. VaPI provides robust online ionization of organics in aerosols without extensive ion activation, with the coupling to IM-MS providing higher peak capacity and excellent mass accuracy. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

Adult day health care evaluation study: methodology and implementation. Adult Day Health Care Evaluation Development Group.

PubMed Central

Hedrick, S C; Rothman, M L; Chapko, M; Inui, T S; Kelly, J R; Ehreth, J

1991-01-01

The Adult Day Health Care Evaluation Study was developed in response to a congressional mandate to study the medical efficacy and cost effectiveness of the Adult Day Health Care (ADHC) effort in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Four sites providing ADHC in VA facilities are participating in an ongoing randomized controlled trial. Three years of developmental work prior to the study addressed methodological issues that were problematic in previous studies. This developmental work resulted in the methodological approaches described here: (1) a patient recruitment process that actively recruits and screens all potential candidates using empirically developed admission criteria based on predictors of nursing home placement in VA; (2) the selection and development of measures of medical efficacy that assess a wide range of patient and caregiver outcomes with sufficient sensitivity to detect small but clinically important changes; and (3) methods for detailed, accurate, and efficient measurement of utilization and costs of health care within and outside VA. These approaches may be helpful to other researchers and may advance the methodological sophistication of long-term care program evaluation. PMID:1991678

Dicer functions as an antiviral system against human adenoviruses via cleavage of adenovirus-encoded noncoding RNA

PubMed Central

Machitani, Mitsuhiro; Sakurai, Fuminori; Wakabayashi, Keisaku; Tomita, Kyoko; Tachibana, Masashi; Mizuguchi, Hiroyuki

2016-01-01

In various organisms, including nematodes and plants, RNA interference (RNAi) is a defense system against virus infection; however, it is unclear whether RNAi functions as an antivirus system in mammalian cells. Rather, a number of DNA viruses, including herpesviruses, utilize post-transcriptional silencing systems for their survival. Here we show that Dicer efficiently suppresses the replication of adenovirus (Ad) via cleavage of Ad-encoding small RNAs (VA-RNAs), which efficiently promote Ad replication via the inhibition of eIF2α phosphorylation, to viral microRNAs (mivaRNAs). The Dicer knockdown significantly increases the copy numbers of VA-RNAs, leading to the efficient inhibition of eIF2α phosphorylation and the subsequent promotion of Ad replication. Conversely, overexpression of Dicer significantly inhibits Ad replication. Transfection with mivaRNA does not affect eIF2α phosphorylation or Ad replication. These results indicate that Dicer-mediated processing of VA-RNAs leads to loss of activity of VA-RNAs for enhancement of Ad replication and that Dicer functions as a defence system against Ad in mammalian cells. PMID:27273616

77 FR 65539 - Privacy Act of 1974; System of Records

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-10-29

..., VA 22350-3100. DoD Education Activity (DoDEA) records: Department of Defense Education Activity..., ATTN: Freedom of Information Act Requester Service Center, 16401 East Centretech Parkway, Aurora, CO... records: Chief, Department of Defense Education Activity, Privacy Office, Executive Services Office...

75 FR 78806 - Agency Information Collection (Create Payment Request for the VA Funding Fee Payment System (VA...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-12-16

... Payment Request for the VA Funding Fee Payment System (VA FFPS); a Computer Generated Funding Fee Receipt.... 2900-0474.'' SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Title: Create Payment Request for the VA Funding Fee Payment System (VA FFPS); a Computer Generated Funding Fee Receipt, VA Form 26-8986. OMB Control Number: 2900...

Using research to transform care for women veterans: advancing the research agenda and enhancing research-clinical partnerships.

PubMed

Yano, Elizabeth M; Bastian, Lori A; Bean-Mayberry, Bevanne; Eisen, Seth; Frayne, Susan; Hayes, Patricia; Klap, Ruth; Lipson, Linda; Mattocks, Kristin; McGlynn, Geraldine; Sadler, Anne; Schnurr, Paula; Washington, Donna L

2011-01-01

The purpose of this paper is to report on the outcomes of the 2010 VA Women's Health Services Research Conference, which brought together investigators interested in pursuing research on women veterans and women in the military with leaders in women's health care delivery and policy within and outside the VA, to significantly advance the state and future direction of VA women's health research and its potential impacts on practice and policy. Building on priorities assembled in the previous VA research agenda (2004) and the research conducted in the intervening six years, we used an array of approaches to foster research-clinical partnerships that integrated the state-of-the-science with the informational and strategic needs of senior policy and practice leaders. With demonstrated leadership commitment and support, broad field-based participation, strong interagency collaboration and a push to accelerate the move from observational to interventional and implementation research, the Conference provided a vital venue for establishing the foundation for a new research agenda. In this paper, we provide the historical evolution of the emergence of women veterans' health services research and an overview of the research in the intervening years since the first VA women's health research agenda. We then present the resulting VA Women's Health Research Agenda priorities and supporting activities designed to transform care for women veterans in six broad areas of study, including access to care and rural health; primary care and prevention; mental health; post deployment health; complex chronic conditions, aging and long-term care; and reproductive health. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Effect of micronutrient supplementation on the immune function of crossbred dairy cows under semi-arid tropical environment.

PubMed

De, Kalyan; Pal, Shashi; Prasad, Shiv; Dang, Ajay Kumar

2014-01-01

This study assessed the effect of micronutrient supplementation around peripartum period on immune function, reproductive performance, milk yield and milk quality of crossbred cows. Thirty pregnant crossbred cows in their late gestation were selected and randomly divided into five groups for study. Six cows in each group were supplemented with vitamin E (VE) (2000 IU/cow/day), vitamin A (VA) (100,000 IU/cow/day), copper (Cu) (20 ppm/cow/day), zinc (Zn) (80 ppm/cow/day) individually from 45 days pre-calving to 45 days post-calving and one group without any supplementation served as control. Immune function was studied by in vitro phagocytic activity (PA) of blood neutrophils, lymphocyte proliferation response (LPR) and plasma interleukin-8 (IL-8) concentration. Supplementation of VA significantly (P < 0.05) increased the in vitro PA of blood neutrophils and decreased milk somatic cell counts (SCC). Zn supplementation significantly (P < 0.05) increased the T lymphocyte proliferation response, whereas B lymphocyte LPR was significantly (P < 0.05) increased with both VA and Zn supplementation as compared to the control cows. Plasma IL-8 concentration was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in all supplemented cows. Supplementation of VE, VA and Zn significantly (P < 0.05) reduces days open, whereas VA significantly (P < 0.05) reduced the service per conception. In this study, it is concluded that VE, VA and Zn supplementation around peripartum period can boost the immunity and improve the reproductive performance of crossbred cows in a semi-arid tropical environment.

Ensifer meliloti overexpressing Escherichia coli phytase gene ( appA) improves phosphorus (P) acquisition in maize plants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sharma, Vikas; Kumar, Ajit; Archana, G.; Kumar, G. Naresh

2016-10-01

The Escherichia coli phytase gene appA encoding enzyme AppA was cloned in a broad host range plasmid pBBR1MCS2 ( lac promoter), termed pVA1, and transformed into the Ensifer meliloti 1020. Transformation of pVA1 in Ensifer meliloti { E. m (pVA1)} increased its phosphatase and phytase activity by ˜9- and ˜50-fold, respectively, compared to the transformants containing empty plasmid as control { E. m (pBBR1MCS2)}. The western blot experiments using rabbit anti-AppA antibody showed that AppA is translocated into the periplasm of the host after its expression. Ensifer meliloti harboring AppA protein { E. m (pVA1)} and { E. m (pBBR1MCS2)} could acidify the unbuffered phytate minimal media (pH 8.0) containing Ca-phytate or Na-phytate as sole organic P (Po) source to below pH 5.0 and released P. However, both { E. m (pVA1)} and { E. m (pBBR1MCS2)} neither dropped pH of the medium nor released P when the medium was buffered at pH 8.0 using Tris-Cl, indicating that acidification of medium was important for the enzymatic hydrolysis of phytate. Further experiments proved that maize plants inoculated with { E. m. (pVA1)} showed increase in growth under sterile semi solid agar (SSA) medium containing Na-phytate as sole P source. The present study could be helpful in generating better transgenic bioinoculants harboring phosphate mineralization properties that ultimately promote plant growth.

Ensifer meliloti overexpressing Escherichia coli phytase gene (appA) improves phosphorus (P) acquisition in maize plants.

PubMed

Sharma, Vikas; Kumar, Ajit; Archana, G; Kumar, G Naresh

2016-10-01

The Escherichia coli phytase gene appA encoding enzyme AppA was cloned in a broad host range plasmid pBBR1MCS2 (lac promoter), termed pVA1, and transformed into the Ensifer meliloti 1020. Transformation of pVA1 in Ensifer meliloti {E. m (pVA1)} increased its phosphatase and phytase activity by ∼9- and ∼50-fold, respectively, compared to the transformants containing empty plasmid as control {E. m (pBBR1MCS2)}. The western blot experiments using rabbit anti-AppA antibody showed that AppA is translocated into the periplasm of the host after its expression. Ensifer meliloti harboring AppA protein {E. m (pVA1)} and {E. m (pBBR1MCS2)} could acidify the unbuffered phytate minimal media (pH 8.0) containing Ca-phytate or Na-phytate as sole organic P (Po) source to below pH 5.0 and released P. However, both {E. m (pVA1)} and {E. m (pBBR1MCS2)} neither dropped pH of the medium nor released P when the medium was buffered at pH 8.0 using Tris-Cl, indicating that acidification of medium was important for the enzymatic hydrolysis of phytate. Further experiments proved that maize plants inoculated with {E. m. (pVA1)} showed increase in growth under sterile semi solid agar (SSA) medium containing Na-phytate as sole P source. The present study could be helpful in generating better transgenic bioinoculants harboring phosphate mineralization properties that ultimately promote plant growth.

Individual and group cognitive processing therapy: Effectiveness across two veterans affairs posttraumatic stress disorder treatment clinics.

PubMed

Lamp, Kristen E; Avallone, Kimberly M; Maieritsch, Kelly P; Buchholz, Katherine R; Rauch, Sheila A M

2018-05-14

In accordance with Veterans Affairs (VA) policy, VA posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) clinics offer evidence-based treatments including cognitive processing therapy (CPT). To facilitate access to care, CPT is offered in both group and individual formats in many VA PTSD clinics. Group and individual delivery of CPT have been directly compared in active duty samples, but these findings have not been extended to VA populations. The present article directly compares the effectiveness of group and individual CPT with a written trauma account (CPT+A) across two VA PTSD clinics. Veterans (N = 465) completed initial evaluations and enrolled in either group CPT+A (N = 146) or individual CPT+A (N = 319). Self-report measures of PTSD and depression symptoms were collected at pre-, mid-, and posttreatment; combined across treatment sites; and analyzed using hierarchical linear modeling. PTSD and depression symptoms reduced significantly over the course of group and individual CPT+A. Medium treatment effects were found for group CPT+A (d = .66 for PTSD, d = .68 for depression), and large treatment effects were found for individual CPT+A (d = .96 for PTSD, d = .79 for depression). Individual CPT+A led to significantly greater PTSD and depression symptom reduction than group CPT+A, indicating that in VA outpatient PTSD clinic settings, individual CPT+A may be a more effective approach than group CPT-A. In addition, PTSD symptoms reduced significantly more for Caucasian veterans than for African American veterans during CPT+A, indicating the importance of providing culturally competent trauma-focused care. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved).

Quantification of Postmembrane Gaseous Microembolization During Venoarterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation.

PubMed

Jiao, York; Gipson, Keith E; Bonde, Pramod; Mangi, Abeel; Hagberg, Robert; Rosinski, David J; Gross, Jeffrey B; Schonberger, Robert B

Prolonged use of venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA ECMO) may be complicated by end-organ dysfunction. Although gaseous microemboli (GME) are thought to damage end organs during cardiopulmonary bypass, patient exposures to GME have not been well characterized during VA ECMO. We therefore performed an observational study of GME in adult VA ECMO patients, with correlation to clinical events during routine patient care. After institutional review board (IRB) approval, we used two Doppler probes to detect GME noninvasively in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) circuits on four patients for 15 hours total while also recording patient care events. We then conducted in vitro trials to compare Doppler signals with gold-standard measurements using an Emboli Detection and Classification EDAC quantifier (Luna Innnovations, Inc. Roanoke, VA) (Terumo Cardiovascular, Ann Arbor, MI) during simulated clinical interventions. Correlations between Doppler and EDAC data were used to estimate GME counts and volumes represented by clinical Doppler data. A total of 503 groups of Doppler peaks representing GME showers were observed, including 194 statistically larger showers during patient care activities containing 92% of total Doppler peaks. Intravenous injections accounted for an estimated 68% of GME and 88% of GME volume, whereas care involving movement accounted for an estimated 6% of GME and 3% of volume. Overall estimated embolic rates of 24,000 GME totaling 4 μl/hr rivals reported GME rates during cardiopulmonary bypass. Numerous GME are present in the postmembrane circuit during VA ECMO, raising concern for effects on microcirculation and organ dysfunction. Strategies to detect and minimize GME may be warranted to limit embolic exposures experienced by VA ECMO patients.

SU-E-I-89: Assessment of CT Radiation Dose and Image Quality for An Automated Tube Potential Selection Algorithm Using Pediatric Anthropomorphic and ACR Phantoms

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

Mahmood, U; Erdi, Y; Wang, W

Purpose: To assess the impact of General Electrics automated tube potential algorithm, kV assist (kVa) on radiation dose and image quality, with an emphasis on optimizing protocols based on noise texture. Methods: Radiation dose was assessed by inserting optically stimulated luminescence dosimeters (OSLs) throughout the body of a pediatric anthropomorphic phantom (CIRS). The baseline protocol was: 120 kVp, 80 mA, 0.7s rotation time. Image quality was assessed by calculating the contrast to noise ratio (CNR) and noise power spectrum (NPS) from the ACR CT accreditation phantom. CNRs were calculated according to the steps described in ACR CT phantom testing document.more » NPS was determined by taking the 3D FFT of the uniformity section of the ACR phantom. NPS and CNR were evaluated with and without kVa and for all available adaptive iterative statistical reconstruction (ASiR) settings, ranging from 0 to 100%. Each NPS was also evaluated for its peak frequency difference (PFD) with respect to the baseline protocol. Results: For the baseline protocol, CNR was found to decrease from 0.460 ± 0.182 to 0.420 ± 0.057 when kVa was activated. When compared against the baseline protocol, the PFD at ASiR of 40% yielded a decrease in noise magnitude as realized by the increase in CNR = 0.620 ± 0.040. The liver dose decreased by 30% with kVa activation. Conclusion: Application of kVa reduces the liver dose up to 30%. However, reduction in image quality for abdominal scans occurs when using the automated tube voltage selection feature at the baseline protocol. As demonstrated by the CNR and NPS analysis, the texture and magnitude of the noise in reconstructed images at ASiR 40% was found to be the same as our baseline images. We have demonstrated that 30% dose reduction is possible when using 40% ASiR with kVa in pediatric patients.« less

Coordinated gene expression during gilthead sea bream skeletogenesis and its disruption by nutritional hypervitaminosis A.

PubMed

Fernández, Ignacio; Darias, Maria; Andree, Karl B; Mazurais, David; Zambonino-Infante, Jose Luís; Gisbert, Enric

2011-02-09

Vitamin A (VA) has a key role in vertebrate morphogenesis, determining body patterning and growth through the control of cell proliferation and differentiation processes. VA regulates primary molecular pathways of those processes by the binding of its active metabolite (retinoic acid) to two types of specific nuclear receptors: retinoic acid receptors (RARs) and retinoid X receptors (RXRs), which promote transcription of downstream target genes. This process is well known in most of higher vertebrates; however, scarce information is available regarding fishes. Therefore, in order to gain further knowledge of fish larval development and its disruption by nutritional VA imbalance, the relative expression of some RARs and RXRs, as well as several genes involved in morpho- and skeletogenesis such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARA, PPARB and PPARG); retinol-binding protein (RBP); insulin-like growth factors I and II (IGF1 and IGF2, respectively); bone morphogenetic protein 2 (Bmp2); transforming growth factor β-1 (TGFB1); and genes encoding different extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins such as matrix Gla protein (mgp), osteocalcin (bglap), osteopontin (SPP1), secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) and type I collagen α1 chain (COL1A1) have been studied in gilthead sea bream. During gilthead sea bream larval development, specific expression profiles for each gene were tightly regulated during fish morphogenesis and correlated with specific morphogenetic events and tissue development. Dietary hypervitaminosis A during early larval development disrupted the normal gene expression profile for genes involved in RA signalling (RARA), VA homeostasis (RBP) and several genes encoding ECM proteins that are linked to skeletogenesis, such as bglap and mgp. Present data reflects the specific gene expression patterns of several genes involved in larval fish RA signalling and skeletogenesis; and how specific gene disruption induced by a nutritional VA imbalance underlie the skeletal deformities. Our results are of basic interest for fish VA signalling and point out some of the potential molecular players involved in fish skeletogenesis. Increased incidences of skeletal deformities in gilthead sea bream fed with hypervitaminosis A were the likely ultimate consequence of specific gene expression disruption at critical development stages.

Coordinated gene expression during gilthead sea bream skeletogenesis and its disruption by nutritional hypervitaminosis A

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Vitamin A (VA) has a key role in vertebrate morphogenesis, determining body patterning and growth through the control of cell proliferation and differentiation processes. VA regulates primary molecular pathways of those processes by the binding of its active metabolite (retinoic acid) to two types of specific nuclear receptors: retinoic acid receptors (RARs) and retinoid X receptors (RXRs), which promote transcription of downstream target genes. This process is well known in most of higher vertebrates; however, scarce information is available regarding fishes. Therefore, in order to gain further knowledge of fish larval development and its disruption by nutritional VA imbalance, the relative expression of some RARs and RXRs, as well as several genes involved in morpho- and skeletogenesis such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARA, PPARB and PPARG); retinol-binding protein (RBP); insulin-like growth factors I and II (IGF1 and IGF2, respectively); bone morphogenetic protein 2 (Bmp2); transforming growth factor β-1 (TGFB1); and genes encoding different extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins such as matrix Gla protein (mgp), osteocalcin (bglap), osteopontin (SPP1), secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) and type I collagen α1 chain (COL1A1) have been studied in gilthead sea bream. Results During gilthead sea bream larval development, specific expression profiles for each gene were tightly regulated during fish morphogenesis and correlated with specific morphogenetic events and tissue development. Dietary hypervitaminosis A during early larval development disrupted the normal gene expression profile for genes involved in RA signalling (RARA), VA homeostasis (RBP) and several genes encoding ECM proteins that are linked to skeletogenesis, such as bglap and mgp. Conclusions Present data reflects the specific gene expression patterns of several genes involved in larval fish RA signalling and skeletogenesis; and how specific gene disruption induced by a nutritional VA imbalance underlie the skeletal deformities. Our results are of basic interest for fish VA signalling and point out some of the potential molecular players involved in fish skeletogenesis. Increased incidences of skeletal deformities in gilthead sea bream fed with hypervitaminosis A were the likely ultimate consequence of specific gene expression disruption at critical development stages. PMID:21306609

Discrimination of stroke-related mild cognitive impairment and vascular dementia using EEG signal analysis.

PubMed

Al-Qazzaz, Noor Kamal; Ali, Sawal Hamid Bin Mohd; Ahmad, Siti Anom; Islam, Mohd Shabiul; Escudero, Javier

2018-01-01

Stroke survivors are more prone to developing cognitive impairment and dementia. Dementia detection is a challenge for supporting personalized healthcare. This study analyzes the electroencephalogram (EEG) background activity of 5 vascular dementia (VaD) patients, 15 stroke-related patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and 15 control healthy subjects during a working memory (WM) task. The objective of this study is twofold. First, it aims to enhance the discrimination of VaD, stroke-related MCI patients, and control subjects using fuzzy neighborhood preserving analysis with QR-decomposition (FNPAQR); second, it aims to extract and investigate the spectral features that characterize the post-stroke dementia patients compared to the control subjects. Nineteen channels were recorded and analyzed using the independent component analysis and wavelet analysis (ICA-WT) denoising technique. Using ANOVA, linear spectral power including relative powers (RP) and power ratio were calculated to test whether the EEG dominant frequencies were slowed down in VaD and stroke-related MCI patients. Non-linear features including permutation entropy (PerEn) and fractal dimension (FD) were used to test the degree of irregularity and complexity, which was significantly lower in patients with VaD and stroke-related MCI than that in control subjects (ANOVA; p ˂ 0.05). This study is the first to use fuzzy neighborhood preserving analysis with QR-decomposition (FNPAQR) dimensionality reduction technique with EEG background activity of dementia patients. The impairment of post-stroke patients was detected using support vector machine (SVM) and k-nearest neighbors (kNN) classifiers. A comparative study has been performed to check the effectiveness of using FNPAQR dimensionality reduction technique with the SVM and kNN classifiers. FNPAQR with SVM and kNN obtained 91.48 and 89.63% accuracy, respectively, whereas without using the FNPAQR exhibited 70 and 67.78% accuracy for SVM and kNN, respectively, in classifying VaD, stroke-related MCI, and control patients, respectively. Therefore, EEG could be a reliable index for inspecting concise markers that are sensitive to VaD and stroke-related MCI patients compared to control healthy subjects.

Promotion of Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato Increased Vitamin A Intakes and Reduced the Odds of Low Retinol-Binding Protein among Postpartum Kenyan Women.

PubMed

Girard, Amy Webb; Grant, Frederick; Watkinson, Michelle; Okuku, Haile Selassie; Wanjala, Rose; Cole, Donald; Levin, Carol; Low, Jan

2017-05-01

Background: Orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) improves vitamin A (VA) status of young children; research with pregnant and lactating women is limited. Objective: We examined the effectiveness of the Mama SASHA (Sweetpotato Action for Security and Health in Africa) program to improve nutrition knowledge, diets, and nutritional status of pregnant and lactating women (PLW) in Western Kenya. Methods: Eight health facilities were allocated to the Mama SASHA intervention or comparison arms. PLW in intervention facilities received enhanced nutrition counseling at health clinics, were linked with community-based maternal support groups, and received vouchers for OFSP vine cuttings. Control PLW received clinic-based nutrition counseling only. A total of 505 women in early and midpregnancy, attending their first antenatal care visit, and with no previous engagement in project activities were enrolled from the 8 facilities. Nutrition and health-seeking knowledge, food security, dietary patterns, and anthropometric measurements were collected at 4 time points at ≤9 mo postpartum. VA intakes were assessed with multipass 24-h recalls in a subsample of 206 mothers at 8-10 mo postpartum. VA status was assessed by using serum retinol-binding protein (RBP). Impacts were estimated with multilevel mixed models adjusted for clustering and differences at enrollment. Results: At enrollment, 22.9% of women had RBP <1.17 μmol/L. By 9 mo postpartum, intervention women had significantly higher intakes of VA [adjusted difference = 297.0 retinol activity equivalent (RAE) units; 95% CI: 82, 513 RAE units; P = 0.01; n = 206], greater consumption of VA-rich fruit and vegetables in the previous 7 d (difference-in-difference estimate: 0.40 d; 95% CI: 0.23, 0.56 d; P < 0.01), and a 45% reduction in the odds of RBP <1.17 μmol/L (OR: 0.55; 95% CI: 0.33, 0.92; P = 0.01). Conclusion: Promotion of OFSP to PLW through health services is a feasible strategy to improve women's nutrition knowledge, VA intakes, and maternal RBP.

Validation of Taiwan Performance-Based Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (TPIADL), a Performance- Based Measurement of Instrumental Activities of Daily Living for Patients with Vascular Cognitive Impairment.

PubMed

Chen, Hui-Mei; Lin, Hsiu-Fen; Huang, Mei-Feng; Chang, Chun-Wei; Yeh, Yi-Chun; Lo, Yi-Ching; Yen, Cheng-Fang; Chen, Cheng-Sheng

2016-01-01

Patients with cerebrovascular diseases often presented both cognitive and physical impairment. Disability in everyday functioning involving cognitive impairment among patients may be hard to completely rely on informants' reports, as their reports may be confounded with physical impairment. The aim of this study was to validate a performance-based measure of functional assessment, the Taiwan Performance-Based Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (TPIADL), for vascular cognitive impairment (VCI) by examining its psychometric properties and diagnostic accuracy. Ninety-seven patients with cerebrovascular diseases, including 30 with vascular dementia (VaD), 28 with mild cognitive impairment and 39 with no cognitive impairment, and 49 healthy control adults were recruited during study period. The TPIADL, as well as the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), Lawton-IADL and Barthel Index (BI), were performed. The internal consistency, convergent and criteria validity of the TPIADL were examined. Cronbach's alpha of the TPIADL test was 0.84. The TPIADL scores were significantly correlated with the Lawton IADL (r = -0.587, p <0.01). Notably, the TPIADL had a higher correlation coefficient with the cognitive domain of Lawton IADL (r = -0.663) than with physical domain of Lawton IADL (r = -0.541). The area under the relative operating characteristic curve was 0.888 (95% CI = 0.812-0.965) to differentiate VaD from other groups. The optimal cut-off point of the TPIADL for detecting VaD was 6/7, which gives a sensitivity of 73.3% and a specificity of 84.5%. The TPIADL is a brief and sensitive tool for the detection of IADL impairment in patients with VaD.

Wiener Filtering of Surface EMG with a priori SNR Estimation Toward Myoelectric Control for Neurological Injury Patients

PubMed Central

Liu, Jie; Ying, Dongwen; Zhou, Ping

2014-01-01

Voluntary surface electromyogram (EMG) signals from neurological injury patients are often corrupted by involuntary background interference or spikes, imposing difficulties for myoelectric control. We present a novel framework to suppress involuntary background spikes during voluntary surface EMG recordings. The framework applies a Wiener filter to restore voluntary surface EMG signals based on tracking a priori signal to noise ratio (SNR) by using the decision-directed method. Semi-synthetic surface EMG signals contaminated by different levels of involuntary background spikes were constructed from a database of surface EMG recordings in a group of spinal cord injury subjects. After the processing, the onset detection of voluntary muscle activity was significantly improved against involuntary background spikes. The magnitude of voluntary surface EMG signals can also be reliably estimated for myoelectric control purpose. Compared with the previous sample entropy analysis for suppressing involuntary background spikes, the proposed framework is characterized by quick and simple implementation, making it more suitable for application in a myoelectric control system toward neurological injury rehabilitation. PMID:25443536

78 FR 59771 - Proposed Information Collection (Create Payment Request for the VA Funding Fee Payment System (VA...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-09-27

... Payment Request for the VA Funding Fee Payment System (VA FFPS); a Computer Generated Funding Fee Receipt.... Title: Create Payment Request for the VA Funding Fee Payment System (VA FFPS); A Computer Generated Funding Fee Receipt, VA Form 26-8986. OMB Control Number: 2900-0474. Type of Review: Revision of a...

VA Health Care: Further Action Needed to Address Weaknesses in Management and Oversight of Non-VA Medical Care

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-06-18

medical centers. VA also provides care to veterans in VA-operated community-based outpatient clinics, community living centers ( nursing homes...facility or nursing home up to the point that the veteran can be safely returned to the VA facility following the emergency care treatment at the non-VA... nursing home care, compensation and pension exams, and most pharmacy expenses paid for through the Non-VA Medical Care Program. (See fig. 1.) 8VA

Gamma loop contributing to maximal voluntary contractions in man.

PubMed Central

Hagbarth, K E; Kunesch, E J; Nordin, M; Schmidt, R; Wallin, E U

1986-01-01

A local anaesthetic drug was injected around the peroneal nerve in healthy subjects in order to investigate whether the resulting loss in foot dorsiflexion power in part depended on a gamma-fibre block preventing 'internal' activation of spindle end-organs and thereby depriving the alpha-motoneurones of an excitatory spindle inflow during contraction. The motor outcome of maximal dorsiflexion efforts was assessed by measuring firing rates of individual motor units in the anterior tibial (t.a.) muscle, mean voltage e.m.g. from the pretibial muscles, dorsiflexion force and range of voluntary foot dorsiflexion movements. The tests were performed with and without peripheral conditioning stimuli, such as agonist or antagonist muscle vibration or imposed stretch of the contracting muscles. As compared to control values of t.a. motor unit firing rates in maximal isometric voluntary contractions, the firing rates were lower and more irregular during maximal dorsiflexion efforts performed during subtotal peroneal nerve blocks. During the development of paresis a gradual reduction of motor unit firing rates was observed before the units ceased responding to the voluntary commands. This change in motor unit behaviour was accompanied by a reduction of the mean voltage e.m.g. activity in the pretibial muscles. At a given stage of anaesthesia the e.m.g. responses to maximal voluntary efforts were more affected than the responses evoked by electric nerve stimuli delivered proximal to the block, indicating that impaired impulse transmission in alpha motor fibres was not the sole cause of the paresis. The inability to generate high and regular motor unit firing rates during peroneal nerve blocks was accentuated by vibration applied over the antagonistic calf muscles. By contrast, in eight out of ten experiments agonist stretch or vibration caused an enhancement of motor unit firing during the maximal force tasks. The reverse effects of agonist and antagonist vibration on the ability to activate the paretic muscles were evidenced also by alterations induced in mean voltage e.m.g. activity, dorsiflexion force and range of dorsiflexion movements. The autogenetic excitatory and the reciprocal inhibitory effects of muscle vibration rose in strength as the vibration frequency was raised from 90 to 165 Hz. Reflex effects on maximal voluntary contraction strength similar to those observed during partial nerve blocks were not seen under normal conditions when the nerve supply was intact.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID:3612576

Transportation Economic Trends

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-12-12

Transportation plays a vital role in the American economy: it makes economic activity possible, and serves as a major economic activity in its own right. This report is BTSs first stand-alone volume on transportation and the economy, and uses a va...