The purpose of this investigation was to determine the effects of five weeks of creatine monohydrate ingestion on body composition, blood metabolite, and muscular performance measures in 16 female NCAA Division1 lacrosse players. Subjects were randomly divided into placebo (P,n=9) and creatine supplement (C,n=7) groups. The supplement group was administered 20g/d of creatine monohydrate in capsule form for 7 d and 2g/d thereafter for five weeks during which time the subjects were engaged in a pre-season conditioning program. Pre-and post-testing consisted of a three-site skinfold analysis, bioelectric impedence (BIA) measurements, hydrostatic weighing, isokinetic knee extension muscle endurance test (5 sets of 30 repetitions at 180 degrees/sec.), blood lactate response to the performance test (pre-test and 3 minutes post-test), a 1RM bench press and 1RM leg extension test. Pre-,mid-, and post- values of blood parameters (BUN and GPT) were measured in order to ensure the safety of the subjects. Data was analyzed using two-way ANOVA with repeated measures, and values are presented as mean±SEM for C and P groups, respectively. Testing revealed that 1RM bench press significantly increased in both groups (mean increase both groups: 4.5kg), and the C group improved significantly more than the P group (6.17±1.96 and 2.84±1.84 kg ). Percent body fat by skinfold also decreased significantly in both groups over time (0.52%), and the C group decreased their body fat significantly more than the P group (1.2+0.92 and +0.29+0.81%). Percent body water by BIA also decreased significantly in both groups over time (2.0%), and the C group decreased their percent body water significantly more than the P group (3.0±1.06 and 1.0±0.92 %). There was a trend for body fat measured by hydrostatic weighing to decrease for for both groups over the 5 weeks. Although no significant differences between groups were found in all other measures, significant time effects across groups were noted (values are absolute mean increase for both groups) for body weight (0.49±3.2kg), 1RM leg extension (1.36±4.1kg), BUN (0.07±0.03mmol/L), total work across 5 bouts of isokinetic knee extension (283.5±387.3Watts), and fat-free mass by skinfold (0.70±1.18kg). These data indicate that a regimen of dietary creatine supplementation designed to increase total muscle Cr content significantly improved the 1RM bench press strength, and decreased the percent body fat as assessed by skinfold and the percent body water as assessed by BIA of a supplemented group more than a placebo group when all female subjects are engaged in a common resistance training program. Furthermore, chronic creatine supplementation appears to have no detrimental effect on blood metabolites which indicate kidney and liver function. / Master of Science

No description available.

Anticholinesterase organophosphate (OP) compounds were developed as insecticides and are also used as nerve agents in chemical warfare. Treatment against acute OP toxicity includes oximes which reactivate phosphorylated acetylcholinesterase (AChE) restoring enzymatic activity. The oxime currently approved for use in the U.S., pralidoxime (2-PAM), has limited efficacy penetrating the blood-brain barrier. Our laboratory has developed novel substituted phenoxyalkyl pyridinium oximes (US Patent 9,227,937) designed to more effectively penetrate the central nervous system. This research investigated any differences in oxime reactivation among four age/sex groups and also survivability in adult female Sprague Dawley rats challenged with a lethal dose of OP. Initially in in vitro experiments, paraoxon (PXN) and a nerve agent (sarin) surrogate, 4-nitrophenyl isopropyl methylphosphonate (NIMP), were incubated with pooled rat brain homogenate from four sex/age groups: adult male or female, and 12-day old male or female rats. Reactivation was performed utilizing 2-PAM or one of three novel oximes (15, 20, or 55), alone or in combination, and AChE activity was measured in a spectrophotometric assay. Overall, the oximes were more effective reactivating inhibition from PXN than from NIMP. Out of all the oximes tested, 2-PAM showed the greatest reactivation percentages. Of the novel oximes, 15 and 20 displayed the highest reactivation against PXN and NIMP, respectively. No statistical difference was detected in reactivation for any oxime among the age/sex groups. For the in vivo study, female adult Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with LD99 dosages of NIMP or PXN. After development of seizure-like behavior, atropine and one of four oximes, 2-PAM, novel oxime 15, 20, or 55 or Multisol vehicle was administered. Animals were closely monitored for signs of cholinergic toxicity and 24-hour survivability. Against PXN, novel oximes 15 and 55 demonstrated an improved odds ratio of 6.5 and 3.1, respectively, over 2-PAM. The most effective oxime against NIMP was novel oxime 20 demonstrating an odds ratio of 3.2 over treatment with 2-PAM. These data indicate that the novel pyridinium oximes are equally efficacious reactivators in adult and juvenile rats of both sexes and enhance survivability against lethal-level OP toxicity as compared to 2-PAM in adult female rats.

Based upon previous research and statistics surrounding the topic of female superintendents, which indicated that women moved into the position at a disproportionate rate when compared to men, this study sought to understand the experiences of female public-school superintendents. Further, the research provided a means for women to discuss their preparation, educational background, barriers, and characteristics needed for success within the superintendency. This study gathered additional information and data, from the perspective of female superintendents, in an effort increase awareness and representation. This qualitative study utilized a variety of methodology. Specifically, surveys were distributed to all female superintendents in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Following the initial survey, seven women participated in a one-one-one interview. All responses were transcribed, classified, and coded for themes. From the research, nine findings emerged, which ranged from women often move into superintendent positions from within their present school division to female superintendents indicated they have to exert more effort than their male counterparts. In addition to the findings, seven implications were developed. These included recommendations such as, the Department of Education should consider training and rubrics for school boards and school division leaders regarding gender bias in an effort to ensure equitable treatment and evaluation, and school divisions should contemplate providing mentoring opportunities to women in educational leadership positions and those exhibiting potential for these roles. The documented experiences of the women studied add to existing research related to female superintendents. This information will be useful to those interested in pursuing the superintendency. Further, the women featured in this study chose to share their experiences, educational journey, and barriers in an effort to educate, encourage, and assist others. / Doctor of Education / Based upon previous research and statistics surrounding the topic of female superintendents, which indicated that women moved into the position at an unequal rate when compared to men, this study sought to understand the experiences of female public-school superintendents. Further, the research provided a means for women to discuss their preparation, educational background, barriers, and characteristics needed for success within the superintendency. This study gathered additional information and data, from the perspective of female superintendents, in an effort increase awareness and representation. The researcher utilized a variety of methodology. Specifically, surveys were distributed to all female superintendents in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Following the initial survey, seven women participated in a one-one-one interview. All responses were recorded, documented, and analyzed for themes. From the research, nine findings emerged, which ranged from women often move into superintendent positions from within their present school division to female superintendents indicated they have to exert more effort than their male counterparts. In addition to the findings, seven implications were developed. These included recommendations such as, the Department of Education should consider training and rubrics for school boards and school division leaders regarding gender prejudice in an effort to ensure impartial treatment and evaluation, and school divisions should contemplate providing mentoring opportunities to women in educational leadership positions and those exhibiting potential for these roles. The documented experiences of the women studied add to existing research related to female superintendents. This information will be useful to those interested in pursuing the superintendency. Further, the women featured in this study chose to share their experiences, educational journey, and barriers in an effort to educate, encourage, and assist others.

Thesis (Ed.D.)--Boston University / PLEASE NOTE: Boston University Libraries did not receive an Authorization To Manage form for this thesis or dissertation. It is therefore not openly accessible, though it may be available by request. If you are the author or principal advisor of this work and would like to request open access for it, please contact us at open-help@bu.edu. Thank you. / This study analyzed the phenomenon of female runners who gained national caliber status after the age of 40. The study focused on 50 national caliber masters runners who started running competitively after age 30 and compared them with 53 such runners who started running competitively when young. Quantitative and qualitative research methods were used. These methods included questionnaires distributed in paper form and through a website, open-ended interviews, field notes, and a strong component of participant observation. Results show that these late-starting female competitors are similar to those who started competing at an early age except for the fact that they lacked support for athletics when young. Otherwise the following similarities were found between both groups. They are achievers balancing families, children, and careers. Both groups started running initially for health and fitness. Ambition subsequently motivated them to compete on a national level. The main obstacle, however, was too many responsibilities. A web of factors contributed to their success. These factors are goal setting, speed training, consistent running over many years, coaching, the support of family and teammates, belief in natural talent, and moderation in training. In spite of injuries, both groups of women perceive that the effects of running are overwhelmingly positive and that the effects extend to their careers and personal lives. These women feel optimistic about aging. They have experienced positive and negative reactions from others. In summary, as women masters runners, late starters can be just as successful as early starters. / 2031-01-01

No description available.

No description available.

Background and Rationale: Creatine phosphate (PCr) is degraded 𝘷𝘪𝘢 the creatine kinase (CK) enzyme to provide energy to rephosphorylate ADP back to ATP during high-intensity muscle contractions. We, and others, have previously shown that dietary creatine (Cr) loading can improve performance in short-duration, high intensity exercise in males and females. An increase in fat-free mass has also been reported, which was higher for males compared to females. It was unknown whether dietary Cr loading increases intramuscular [Cr] equally in both genders. The purpose of this investigation was to examine the effect of oral Cr loading upon [PCr] and [Cr] and exercise performance in both males and females. Methods: Twenty-seven healthy young subjects (n = 13 male, n = 14 female) participated in the investigation. Subjects performed an ischemic handgrip test, maximum voluntary contraction of dorsiflexors and knee extensors, a 30 s maximal cycling test (Wingate), and body composition (by DEXA scanning) was determined before and after supplementation with either Cr (n = 13) (5 g by mouth 4 •d⁻¹ x 5 d, followed by 5 g•d⁻¹ x 5 d) or placebo (pl; n = 14). Muscle biopsy samples were obtained before and after supplementation and were assayed for high-energy phosphates ([Cr], [PCr] and [ATP]). Results: Cr supplementation resulted in an increase in intramuscular total creatine concentration [TCr] (pl, 129.9 ± 13.8 to 132.9 ± 10.8 mMol•kg⁻¹ dw; Cr, 129.9 ± 11.6 to 146.4 ± 20.1 mMol•kg⁻¹ dw, p < 0.05) and a difference in [PCr] (pl, 72.8 ± 15.2 to 67.3 ± 4.3 mMol•kg⁻¹ dw; Cr, 70.9 ± 7.4 to 77.1 ± 13.2 mMol•kg⁻¹ dw), but had no effect on [Cr], and no differences in gender were observed. DEXA analysis showed no significant increase in total or fat-free mass; similarly, no improvements in maximum voluntary contractions were observed in either gender. In Wingate testing, males had a significant increase in peak power (pl, 971 ± 72 W to 989 ±76 W versus Cr, 994 ± 174 W to 1042 ± 154 W) and peak power per kilogram of body weight (pl, 12.8 ± 1.3 to 12.9 ± 1.1 W•kg⁻¹; Cr, 11.5 ± 1.1 to 12.1 ± 1.3 W•kg⁻¹) as a result of creatine supplementation, while females showed no significant difference. Conclusion: Creatine monohydrate supplementation at 20 g•d⁻¹ for 5 days resulted in an increase in muscle total creatine concentration for males and females, but did not affect body composition or maximum voluntary contraction. Males showed improved performance in absolute and relative peak power generation with supplementation while females did not. This may suggest that males and females respond differently to Cr supplementation. / Thesis / Master of Science (MSc)

Female veterans have increased risks for housing instability and homelessness linked to predictors such as housing affordability challenges, abuse and trauma experiences, education and employment barriers, mental health and substance use conditions, and social support deficiencies. Social service providers specializing in services to veterans benefit from specialized training in these areas to support female veterans seeking their services. This project evaluates the effectiveness of the Protecting the Home-Front curriculum designed to inform social service providers serving veterans about these risk factors, service strategies, and resources available to support stable housing for female veterans. Through analysis of pre- to post-program knowledge of material, results suggest that service providers displayed significant increases in knowledge of presented material, service strategies, and available resources to support female veterans. These findings provide a model for a synthesized training curriculum for service providers to become equipped in providing supportive services to unstably housed and homeless female veterans within their communities. / Master of Science

The purpose of this exploratory study was to examine differences between female and male aggression; to examine the effect various aggression, dominance, and couple variables have on female physical aggression; to identify which combination of these variables bests explains female aggression in a sample of couples seeking therapy for domestic violence/anger management; and to identify the influence of male physical aggression on the predictor variables. Overall, based on women's reports, 74.6% (n=63) of the women and 86.2% (n=74) of the men in this sample used at least one act of physical aggression against their partner in the past year. With the exception of slapping and using a knife or gun against partner, men perpetrated individual acts of physical aggression significantly more than did women. Aggression, dominance, and couple variables were found to be significantly correlated with and predictive of female physical aggression. Overall, this study found that 55% of the variance in women's use of physical aggression was predicted by women's psychological aggression, husband demand/wife withdrawal communication pattern, male and female jealousy, and women's disparagement of their partners. Male physical aggression only added 3% of the variance when added to this combination of variables. Since women's physical aggression is explained by various relationship dynamics the theory that women are aggressive only in self-defense is questioned. / Master of Science