Sample records for enhancement program final

  1. Medicare program; prohibition of midyear benefit enhancements for Medicare Advantage organizations. Final rule.

    PubMed

    2008-07-28

    This final rule prohibits Medicare Advantage (MA) organizations, including organizations offering MA plans to employer and union group health plan sponsors, from making midyear changes to nonprescription drug benefits, premiums, and cost-sharing submitted in their approved bids for a given contract year. This final rule also clarifies that MA organizations offering certain kinds of plans restricted to employer and union group health plan sponsors and not open to general enrollment may continue to offer benefit enhancements as they do currently, through means other than midyear benefit enhancements (MYBEs). Programs of all-inclusive care for elderly (PACE) are not subject to the provisions of this final rule and may continue to offer enhanced benefits as specified in our guidance for PACE plans.

  2. Integrating Literacy and Workplace Skills for Worker Advancement. Worker Education Program Final Report, May 1, 1992 - March 31, 1994.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Boyter-Escalona, Margaret

    Final evaluation of the Workplace Education Program, funded by the National Workplace Literacy Program to provide workplace literacy education programs to 425 members of Chicago (Illinois) area clothing and textile workers union members, is presented. The program's goal was to enhance workers' basic literacy skills for present job stabilization…

  3. Kodak Skills Enhancement Program. U.S. Department of Education National Workplace Literacy Project. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Beaudin, Bart P.

    The Kodak Skills Enhancement program was a workplace literacy project funded through the U.S. Department of Education's National Workplace Literacy Program. The project goals were as follows: (1) establish a positive climate within the Kodak corporate environment to ensure program effectiveness by garnering support at all levels; (2) determine the…

  4. Chronic beryllium disease prevention program; worker safety and health program. Final rule.

    PubMed

    2006-02-09

    The Department of Energy (DOE) is today publishing a final rule to implement the statutory mandate of section 3173 of the Bob Stump National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2003 to establish worker safety and health regulations to govern contractor activities at DOE sites. This program codifies and enhances the worker protection program in operation when the NDAA was enacted.

  5. Career Skills Enhancement Program (CSEP). A National Workplace Literacy Program, Final Report To Cover Activities April 1, 1990-September 30, 1991.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Gray, Brenda

    The Career Skills Enhancement Program (CSEP) was a National Workplace Literacy Program offered to Santa Clara County (California) Office of Education (COE) employees. A job skills study involved personal interviews, job shadowing, and examination of job descriptions and materials used by employees. Based on the study and initial needs assessment,…

  6. Federal employees dental and vision insurance program. Final rule.

    PubMed

    2008-08-26

    The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is issuing final regulations to administer the Federal Employee Dental and Vision Benefits Enhancement Act of 2004, signed into law December 23, 2004. This law establishes dental and vision benefits programs for Federal employees, annuitants, and their eligible family members.

  7. Project CREATE Final Report. Cooperative Resources To Enhance Access to Technology Education.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hampden County Employment and Training Consortium, Springfield, MA.

    These materials have been developed by Project CREATE (Cooperative Resources to Enhance Access to Jobs through Technical Education), a demonstration program designed to develop a network, specific activities, and resources that would provide education and support services to a wide audience. A 13-page final report describes the hands-on training…

  8. Foreign Language/Area Studies Enhancement Project. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Felker, William; Fuller, Clark

    The Foreign Language/Area Studies Enhancement Program at Central State University (Ohio) is an experience-centered work and study program in Africa designed to give students training in language, culture, and technology. It parallels and supports the university's northern Senegal water management project designed to promote self-sufficiency among…

  9. Customized Blueprints to Enhance the Participation of HBCU/MIs in DoD-Related R&D Programs

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1991-12-15

    I AD-A245 212 FINAL REPORT FOR PROJECT ENTILED CUSTOMIZED BLUEPRINTS TO ENHANCE THE [ PARTICIPATION OF tIBCU/MIs IN DoD-RELATED R& D PROGRAMS I U...ELECTE. December 15, 1991 JAN 2 3 1992 I Submitted to: D Ms. Tracy Pinson Dennis Office of the Secretary of Defense Office of Small and Disadvantaged...fox Public rlocise and sale; its - "" " - , d ’ tribution is unlimited.U! FOREWORD 4 This Final Report by TRACTELL, Incorporated summarizes its

  10. Project Developmental Continuity Evaluation: Final Report. Volume II: The Process of Program Implementation in PDC.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wacker, Sally; And Others

    The second of two volumes, this document continues the final evaluation report of Project Developmental Continuity (PDC), a Head Start demonstration project initiated in 1974 to develop program models which enhance children's social competence by fostering developmental continuity from preschool through the early elementary grades. In particular,…

  11. A Program to Enhance the Effectiveness of Teaching Assistants.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cornell Univ., Ithaca, NY. Coll. of Engineering.

    This manual is the final report on a two-year project to enhance the effectiveness of teaching assistants. It is designed as a workbook for persons conducting instructional programs for teaching assistants and is specific to teaching assistants in engineering and the natural sciences. The manual contains an introduction and six chapters. Chapter…

  12. Florida maintenance rating program (MRP) assessment and enhancement : final report, May 28, 2008 [summary].

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2008-01-01

    The Florida Department of Transportation : (FDOT) has used its maintenance rating : program (MRP) to evaluate the states : highway maintenance conditions and : determine asset maintenance needs since : 1985. Periodic evaluation of the program is :...

  13. Enhancing the educational achievement of at-risk youth.

    PubMed

    Schinke, S P; Cole, K C; Poulin, S R

    2000-03-01

    This study examined a non-school program aimed at enhancing the educational performance of economically disadvantaged early adolescents who live in public housing. The educational enhancement program included discussions with adults, writing activities, leisure reading, homework, helping others, and games using cognitive skills. A three-arm research design juxtaposed program youth who received educational enhancements with comparison youth in affiliated facilities who did not receive the program and with control youth in other community programs without educational enhancements. From youths, follow-up data collected 2 1/2 years after baseline revealed uniformly positive outcomes for program youth on measures of reading, verbal skills, writing, and tutoring. Teacher reports at final follow-up favored program and comparison youth over controls on measures of reading, writing, games, overall school performance, and interest in class material. School grades were higher for program youth than for comparison and control youth for reading, spelling, history, science, and social studies. Overall grade averages were higher for program youth versus comparisons and controls, as was school attendance. Study data lend empirical support to the provision of educational enhancements in non-school settings for at-risk youths.

  14. Fast Track. Summer Academic Skills Enhancement Program, 1993. Final Evaluation Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Donaldson, William S.

    The Summer Academic Skills Enhancement Program (SASEP) was offered in June-August 1993 to provide Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) clients with the reading comprehension and language mechanics skills required for employment in entry-level positions. A total of 125 referred clients were enrolled into both of two remedial courses of study.…

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

    PubMed

    2005-06-01

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

  16. Career Connections: Enhancing Career Development and Employment Opportunities for University Students with Disabilities. Final Report for Postsecondary Demonstration Program [and] Career Connections for University Students with Disabilities.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Aune, Betty; And Others

    This final report describes "Career Connections," a 3-year federally supported project at the University of Minnesota to enhance the career potential of students with disabilities, educate faculty and staff to work with these students, and assist employers in hiring and supervising people with disabilities. Project accomplishments…

  17. Redding Responder phase I final report.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2005-12-19

    The Redding Responder Study was initiated as a component of the Redding Incident : Management Enhancement (RIME) Program. The goals of the RIME program are to leverage : technology and communications deployments for emergency communication providers ...

  18. Enhancement of Learning through an Integrated Teaching Environment (Project ELITE) Special Alternative Instruction Program. Final Evaluation Report, 1992-93. OER Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ventouratos, Despina

    Enhancement of Learning through an Integrated Teaching Environment (Project ELITE), a federally-funded bilingual education program, served 233 students of limited English proficiency in two high schools in Queens (New York) in its second year of operation. Participating students received instruction in English as a Second Language (ESL),…

  19. 78 FR 67799 - Qualification, Service, and Use of Crewmembers and Aircraft Dispatchers

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-11-12

    ...This final rule revises the training requirements for pilots in air carrier operations. The regulations enhance air carrier pilot training programs by emphasizing the development of pilots' manual handling skills and adding safety-critical tasks such as recovery from stall and upset. The final rule also requires enhanced runway safety training and pilot monitoring training to be incorporated into existing requirements for scenario-based flight training and requires air carriers to implement remedial training programs for pilots. The FAA expects these changes to contribute to a reduction in aviation accidents. Additionally, the final rule revises recordkeeping requirements for communications between the flightcrew and dispatch; ensures that personnel identified as flight attendants have completed flight attendant training and qualification requirements; provides civil enforcement authority for making fraudulent statements; and, provides a number of conforming and technical changes to existing air carrier crewmember training and qualification requirements. The final rule also includes provisions that provide opportunities for air carriers to modify training program requirements for flightcrew members when the air carrier operates multiple aircraft types with similar design and flight handling characteristics.

  20. Programs for the Alleviation of Institutional Dependency. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Callahan, Orel D.; And Others

    The Summer School Functional Education program of the Kalamazoo (Michigan) State Hospital was evaluated in terms of the program's effectiveness in enhancing the emotional health of participants and reducing their institutional dependency (adjustment patterns dependent on the structured and protected environment of the institution). Subjects were…

  1. Faculty Development for Gerontology Program Development. A Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Peterson, David A.; Wendt, Pamela F.

    The University of Southern California's gerontology faculty development program sought to enhance gerontology programs by preparing two to three faculty members from each of several college campuses in Southern California to become core committees that would facilitate an organized sequence of gerontology instruction within their institutions. All…

  2. Enhancing Student Learning: RN CAT Advisement Program.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Donaldson, Susan K.

    This document describes a community college advisement program that was implemented to improve the student pass rate for the national nursing licensure examination. The nursing faculty at Manatee Community College (Florida) recently instituted an advisement system during the final semester of the two-year nursing program. First, students were…

  3. Dynamic mobility applications, program evaluation : national-level impacts and costs estimation : final report.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2016-07-01

    The vision of the Dynamic Mobility Applications (DMA) program is to expedite the development, testing, and deployment of innovative mobility applications that maximize system productivity and enhance mobility of individuals within the surface transpo...

  4. Final Technical Report for SISGR: Ultrafast Molecular Scale Chemical Imaging

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

    Hersam, Mark C.; Guest, Jeffrey R.; Guisinger, Nathan P.

    2017-04-10

    The Northwestern-Argonne SISGR program utilized newly developed instrumentation and techniques including integrated ultra-high vacuum tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy/scanning tunneling microscopy (UHV-TERS/STM) and surface-enhanced femtosecond stimulated Raman scattering (SE-FSRS) to advance the spatial and temporal resolution of chemical imaging for the study of photoinduced dynamics of molecules on plasmonically active surfaces. An accompanying theory program addressed modeling of charge transfer processes using constrained density functional theory (DFT) in addition to modeling of SE-FSRS, thereby providing a detailed description of the excited state dynamics. This interdisciplinary and highly collaborative research resulted in 62 publications with ~ 48% of them being co-authored by multiplemore » SISGR team members. A summary of the scientific accomplishments from this SISGR program is provided in this final technical report.« less

  5. Florida maintenance rating program (MRP) assessment and enhancement : final report, May 28, 2008.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2008-05-28

    The Maintenance Rating Program (MRP), developed in 1985 by FDOT, is a statewide maintenance system aimed : at evaluating the State highway maintenance conditions, and determining FDOT asset maintenance needs. In the : quest for continuous improvement...

  6. MTU-pre-service teacher enhancement program. Final report, September 1992--May 1995

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

    Anderson, C.S.; Yarroch, W.J.

    1996-01-01

    The MTU Pre-Service Teacher Enhancement Program was a two year extended project designed to introduce a select group of science and engineering undergraduate students, with good {open_quotes}people skills,{close_quotes} to the teaching profession. Participants were paid for their time spent with area teacher/mentors and were involved in a variety of in school activities, projects and observations to illustrate the teaching profession. They were encouraged to consider the teaching profession as a future career option. The student participants, however, were under no obligation to enter the Teacher Education Program at the conclusion of the program.

  7. Developing School Laboratories To Promote the Establishment of Individual Experience Programs. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Valley Springs School District 2, AR.

    A project was conducted to promote and develop individual Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) programs in Arkansas through the development of laboratories. It was felt that strong SAE programs enhance the instructional portion of agriculture education, serve as a motivational tool, and improve the relations between the local school and…

  8. Making a Difference in the Lives of Infants and Toddlers and Their Families: The Impacts of Early Head Start. Volumes I-III: Final Technical Report [and] Appendixes [and] Local Contributions to Understanding the Programs and Their Impacts.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Love, John M.; Kisker, Ellen Eliason; Ross, Christine M.; Schochet, Peter Z.; Brooks-Gunn, Jeanne; Paulsell, Diane; Boller, Kimberly; Constantine, Jill; Vogel, Cheri; Fuligni, Alison Sidle; Brady-Smith, Christy

    Early Head Start was designed in 1994 as a 2-generation program to enhance children's development and health, strengthen family and community partnerships, and support the staff delivering new services to low-income families with pregnant women, infants, or toddlers. This document contains the final technical report, appendixes, and local…

  9. 2014 Edition Release 2 Electronic Health Record (EHR) certification criteria and the ONC HIT Certification Program; regulatory flexibilities, improvements, and enhanced health information exchange. Final rule.

    PubMed

    2014-09-11

    This final rule introduces regulatory flexibilities and general improvements for certification to the 2014 Edition EHR certification criteria (2014 Edition). It also codifies a few revisions and updates to the ONC HIT Certification Program for certification to the 2014 Edition and future editions of certification criteria as well as makes administrative updates to the Code of Federal Regulations.

  10. Project Developmental Continuity Evaluation: Final Report. Appendices to Volume I.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bond, James T.; And Others

    This document provides the appendices for volume 1 of the final evaluation report of Project Developmental Continuity (PDC), a Head Start demonstration project initiated in 1974 to develop program models which enhance children's social competence by fostering developmental continuity from preschool through the early elementary grades.…

  11. Workplace Skills Enhancement Project. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Seattle-King County Private Industry Council, Seattle, WA.

    The Seattle-King County Private Industry Council developed and delivered a workplace literacy program in partnership with the following agencies: Employment Opportunities Center, Refugee Federation Services Center, and Center for Career Alternatives. The program provided significant workplace literacy skills to 325 actual enrollees (266 Asian, 15…

  12. Final Evaluation for "The Forgotten Southside", Harlandale Independent School District's Bilingual Education Program, 1975-1976.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Harrison, Helene W.

    Comprised of 60 pre-K-6 classrooms, the program was designed to provide bilingual education for pupils who have limited English speaking ability. Program objectives were to: prevent their educational retardation by instructing them in Spanish while developing their command of English; enhance their understanding and cognitive development in both…

  13. Curriculum Considerations for Enhancing Baccalaureate Learning for International Students.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Pardue, Karen T.; Haas, Barbara

    2003-01-01

    A nursing education program for Israeli students included a final semester in the United States. Program adjustments were made to address English-language fluency, cultural orientation to collectivism, support services for academic writing, and other issues related to the specific learning needs of this population. (SK)

  14. Nutrition Education and Training Program, 1985-86. Final Evaluation Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Guerrero, Frank; Hunt, Daniel M.

    The New York City Board of Education's Nutrition Education and Training Program was developed and implemented to improve the quality of nutrition education in elementary schools. The project's primary objectives were to: (1) provide elementary school teachers and food service personnel with enhanced knowledge of sound nutrition; (2) provide…

  15. Examining Factors Affecting Beginning Teachers' Transfer of Learning of ICT-Enhanced Learning Activities in Their Teaching Practice

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Agyei, Douglas D.; Voogt, Joke

    2014-01-01

    This study examined 100 beginning teachers' transfer of learning when utilising Information Communication Technology-enhanced activity-based learning activities. The beginning teachers had participated in a professional development program that was characterised by "learning technology by collaborative design" in their final year of…

  16. The Indiana Deafblind Services Project: Services for Children with Deafblindness Program. Final Performance Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Indiana State Univ., Terre Haute. Blumberg Center for Interdisciplinary Studies in Special Education.

    This final report describes activities and accomplishments of the Indiana Deaf-Blind Services Project, a 4-year federally funded project to enhance and further develop coordinated direct services to children and youth, birth through 2 and ages 18 through 21. The project also was designed to provide technical assistance to public and private…

  17. USDOT ATTRI program : international innovation coordination plan : final report.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2016-12-01

    Transportation plays a critical role in enhancing access to education, jobs, healthcare, recreation, leisure, and other activities. The United States Department of Transportations (USDOTs) Accessible Transportation Technology Research Initiativ...

  18. Project EXCEL: Hotel Workers Literacy Enhancement Program. Final Performance Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Career Resources Development Center, Inc., San Francisco, CA.

    Project EXCEL is a federally-funded workplace literacy program involving hotel enterprises in the San Francisco (California) Bay area. Its focus is on identification and instruction of literacy skills essential to job success for limited-English-proficient (LEP) workers. Training is intended to enable employees to understand written work orders,…

  19. Career Enhancement Program for the Poultry Processing Industry of the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Merlin, Shirley B.

    A literacy partnership demonstration project was conducted by Rocco, Inc., WLR Foods, Inc., the Virginia Poultry Federation, James Madison University, and Massanutten Technical Center. The project focused on enhancing workers' careers by providing literacy training to assist them in remaining employed or advancing in their careers. Led by an…

  20. 76 FR 409 - Philadelphia International Airport, Capacity Enhancement Program, Environmental Impact Statement...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-01-04

    ... in the Philadelphia Metropolitan Area during all weather conditions. This ROD sets forth FAA's final... current and future aviation demand in the Philadelphia Metropolitan Area during all weather conditions...

  1. A discussion group program enhances the conceptual reasoning skills of students enrolled in a large lecture-format introductory biology course.

    PubMed

    Peteroy-Kelly, Marcy A

    2007-01-01

    It has been well-established that discussion groups enhance student learning in large lecture courses. The goal of this study was to determine the impact of a discussion group program on the development of conceptual reasoning skills of students enrolled in a large lecture-format introductory biology course. In the discussion group, students worked on problems based on topics discussed in lecture. The program was evaluated using three assessment tools. First, student responses to pre- and posttests were analyzed. The test question asked the students to demonstrate the relationships between 10 different but related terms. Use of a concept map to link the terms indicated an advanced level of conceptual reasoning skills. There was a 13.8% increase in the use of concept maps from pre- to posttest. Second, the students took a Likert-type survey to determine the perceived impact of the program on their conceptual reasoning skills. Many of the students felt that the program helped them understand and use the main course concepts to logically solve problems. Finally, average exam grades increased as the semester progressed. The average final grade in the course was 75%. Students enrolled in the course the previous year (where the lecture component of the course did not assess or reflect student learning in the discussion group) had an average final grade of 69%. The results of this study demonstrate that the discussion group program improves the conceptual reasoning skills of students enrolled in a large lecture-format introductory biology course.

  2. State-Wide Evaluation of the New Hampshire ESEA Title II, Part D Grant Program. Final Report

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Knestis, Kirk; Smoke-Zur, Naomi; Gibson, Rachel; Pike, Jessica Yusaitis; Higgins, Cathy

    2011-01-01

    The Title II-D grant program, "Enhancing Education Through Technology," (EETT) provides financial assistance to higher poverty school districts that have the greatest need for technology support or have been identified as being in need of improvement. In 2009, the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act (ARRA) provided an additional $650…

  3. Hospital Job Skills Enhancement Program: A Workplace Literacy Project. Final Evaluation Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Nurss, Joanne R.

    A workplace literacy program was designed to improve the literacy skills of entry-level workers in the housekeeping, food service, and laundry departments of Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta. Classes were held twice per week for 36 weeks at the hospital on job time. Literacy was defined as reading, writing, oral communication, and problem…

  4. FDOT transportation research peer exchange : final report.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2013-02-01

    Each of FDOTs peer exchanges has been substantially different in composition and theme. The first focused on overall research program management; the second on opportunities for enhancing the Research Centers relationships with FDOT project man...

  5. Communication Enhancement Project. Manitoba Pool Elevators and United Grain Growers. Phase One Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Howell, Sandi

    In 1992, United Grain Growers (UGG) and Manitoba Pool (MP) formed a partnership to examine the literacy and numeracy needs of their rural grain elevator operators and the potential of delivering a communications enhancement program in the rural areas. During part 1, the committee held a series of initial planning meetings. Both companies held…

  6. Water research program final report, March 15, 1970 to October 31, 1972. Separations processes

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

    Minturn, R. E.

    A summary article on separation by filtration is reprinted, and research is reported in the following areas: dynamic membranes, cast film membranes, concentration polarization, economic analysis; and enhanced heat transfer. (DHM)

  7. Test and Evaluation Enhancements for Cognitive Radio Technologies

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2015-05-13

    SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: This document serves as the final report for the Department of Defense (DoD) Research and Education Program for...report will described the instrumentation and the integration into the academic and research programs . All instrumentation has been procured, delivered...UNIT NUMBER 5c. PROGRAM ELEMENT NUMBER 5b. GRANT NUMBER 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER Form Approved OMB NO. 0704-0188 3. DATES COVERED (From - To) - UU UU UU UU

  8. Cognitive Enhancement Using ICT and Its Ethical Implications.

    PubMed

    Doukakis, Spyros; Stamatellos, Giannis; Glinou, Nektaria

    2017-01-01

    The utilization of digital tools aiming at the cognitive enhancement of students and adults, so that they can achieve better performance and professional or academic success, has increased in recent years. This paper focuses on ICT tools such as computer games, programming languages and educational software as means for cognitive enhancement and attempts to highlight their contributions. Issues of design and the limitations of digital tools are discussed. In the final section, the ethical implications of using educational ICT tools for cognitive enhancement from a virtue ethics perspective are presented.

  9. The Evaluation of Enhanced Academic Instruction in After-School Programs: Final Report. NCEE 2009-4077

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Black, Alison Rebeck; Somers, Marie-Andree; Doolittle, Fred; Unterman, Rebecca; Grossman, Jean Baldwin

    2009-01-01

    The primary purpose of this study is to determine whether providing structured academic instruction in reading or math to students in grades two to five during their afterschool hours--instead of the less formal academic supports offered in regular after-school programs-- improves their academic performance in the subject. This is the second and…

  10. Final Technical Report for earmark project "Atmospheric Science Program at the University of Louisville"

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

    Dowling, Timothy Edward

    2014-02-11

    We have completed a 3-year project to enhance the atmospheric science program at the University of Louisville, KY (est. 2008). The goals were to complete an undergraduate atmospheric science laboratory (Year 1) and to hire and support an assistant professor (Years 2 and 3). Both these goals were met on schedule, and slightly under budget.

  11. Project S.T.A.R.S. Student Training at Retail Stores. Cooperative Demonstration Program. Final Performance Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Gray, Barbara

    The Student Training at Retail Stores (STARS) project was evaluated during the 1989-90 school year. With the collaboration of business a 3-semester program of intense occupational, vocational, and career education was developed to enhance job skills and secure retail sales jobs for high school juniors with moderate learning, speech, emotional, and…

  12. Native Hawaiian Hearing and Speech Project. Counteracting the Negative Educational Effects of Otitis Media in Native Hawaiian Preschoolers. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kamehameha Schools/Bernice Pauahi Bishop Estate, Honolulu, HI.

    This study aimed to produce a significant improvement in the educational achievement of Hawaiian preschool children in 2 years, through implementation of a communication program in five preschool classes serving approximately 100 children. The six components of the program were: (1) an enhanced hearing loss and middle-ear disorder and speech…

  13. [Inductive reasoning and intelligence test performance--analysis of the manner of the effect of 2 thought training methods for children].

    PubMed

    Hager, W; Hasselhorn, M; Hübner, S

    1995-10-01

    For his training programs of inductive reasoning Klauer postulates a transfer effect to inductive thinking as well as to (performance in tests of) intelligence. As evidence for these claims, however, he uses the same data. That means the same tests are used to prove enhancement of inductive thinking and to prove transfer to performance in tests of intelligence. Moreover, Klauer's claim to train inductive thinking is criticized since better performances in at least some of the tests he administers can result due to enhancements in the area of visual perception. Finally, we ask what kind of effects the programs result in: Are they mere coaching effects or do the programs result in better performance due to enhanced competencies? The empirical evidence suggest that positive effects on inductive thinking do not last as long as perceptual competencies that are necessarily fostered when visual material is presented to children.

  14. Medicaid Program; Mechanized Claims Processing and Information Retrieval Systems (90/10). Final rule.

    PubMed

    2015-12-04

    This final rule will extend enhanced funding for Medicaid eligibility systems as part of a state's mechanized claims processing system, and will update conditions and standards for such systems, including adding to and updating current Medicaid Management Information Systems (MMIS) conditions and standards. These changes will allow states to improve customer service and support the dynamic nature of Medicaid eligibility, enrollment, and delivery systems.

  15. 76 FR 77979 - Sunset of the Patent Application Backlog Reduction Stimulus Plan and a Limited Extension of the...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-12-15

    ... prioritized examination having a more aggressive time frame for examination than the Green Technology Pilot Program, with an aggregate goal of reaching final disposition within 12 months and maintains an enhanced...

  16. Multiplexer/demultiplexer flexibility enhancement program

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1978-01-01

    This final report summarizes the accomplishments of the NASA/JSC MDM Flexibility Enhancement Program, Contract NAS9-15359 as carried out by Sperry Flight Systems from April through December 1977. Included are discussions of major statement of work tasks and the results, conclusions and recommended actions. All tasks called out in the amended SOW were carried out. Significant development tasks which were completed included the following: (1) Development, breadboard and test of a Pulse Output 28-volt Module. (2) Development and test of a 32-channel DC Analog Input (DCIN) Differential Module. (3) Development and test of a sequence memory module using an M2708 EPROM which can be programmed in the unit. (4) Development and test of a radiator top cover for a radiation-cooled Flexible MDM.

  17. The $2000 Electric Powertrain Option-1 Program. Final technical report

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

    NONE

    1999-06-01

    This report describes the tasks accomplished as part of Northrop Grumman's TRP $2000 Electric Powertrain Option-1 program. Northrop Grumman has strived to achieve technology advances and development considered as high priority to the success of future electric vehicles. Northrop Grumman has achieved the intent of the program by taking several steps toward reducing the cost of the electric vehicle powertrain, demonstrating technologies in the form of hardware and introducing enhancements into production that are consistent with the needs of the market.

  18. Development of Medical Technology for Contingency Response to Marrow Toxic Agents

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2012-03-31

    Development of Medical Technology for Contingency Response to Marrow Toxic Agents - Final Performance/Technical Report for March 01, 2010 to February 28...Development of Medical Technology for Contingency Response To Marrow Toxic Agents FINAL REPORT March 1, 2010 – March 31, 2012 National...Buccal Swabs 38 IIB.1.5 Enhancing HLA Data for Selected Donors 43 IIB.1.6 Maintain a Quality Control Program 46 IIB.2.1 Collection of Primary Data

  19. Does adding an emotion component enhance the Triple P-Positive Parenting Program?

    PubMed

    Salmon, Karen; Dittman, Cassandra; Sanders, Matthew; Burson, Rebecca; Hammington, Josie

    2014-04-01

    This pilot study aimed to compare the efficacy of a regular offering of the group-delivered Triple P-Positive Parenting Program for child behavior problems with an enhanced version tailored to promote child emotion competence. Families of children between ages 3 and 6 years displaying early-onset conduct problems were randomly assigned to Group Triple P (GTP; final n = 18) or Emotion Enhanced Triple P (EETP; final n = 18), in which parents were encouraged to incorporate emotion labels and causes and to coach emotion competence during discussions of everyday emotional experiences with their child. Compared with parents who received GTP, parents who received EETP increased their discussion of emotion labels and emotion causes in conversations with their child at postintervention, but this advantage was lost by the 4-month follow-up. Parents in the EETP condition also used more emotion coaching postintervention and at follow-up. There were no differences at postintervention or follow-up in children's emotion knowledge skills. Postintervention improvement in disruptive child behavior was greater for GTP, but the groups converged at follow-up. Parents were similarly satisfied with both interventions. Overall, EETP showed little advantage over regular GTP delivery. PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2014 APA, all rights reserved.

  20. 78 FR 22780 - Final Priority; National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research-Disability and...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-04-17

    ... Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research--Disability and Rehabilitation Research Projects and Centers Program--Rehabilitation Engineering Research Centers AGENCY: Office of Special Education and... Research Center (RERC) on Hearing Enhancement under the Disability and Rehabilitation Research Projects and...

  1. A novel LSD1 inhibitor NCD38 ameliorates MDS-related leukemia with complex karyotype by attenuating leukemia programs via activating super-enhancers.

    PubMed

    Sugino, N; Kawahara, M; Tatsumi, G; Kanai, A; Matsui, H; Yamamoto, R; Nagai, Y; Fujii, S; Shimazu, Y; Hishizawa, M; Inaba, T; Andoh, A; Suzuki, T; Takaori-Kondo, A

    2017-11-01

    Lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) regulates gene expression by affecting histone modifications and is a promising target for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with specific genetic abnormalities. Novel LSD1 inhibitors, NCD25 and NCD38, inhibited growth of MLL-AF9 leukemia as well as erythroleukemia, megakaryoblastic leukemia and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDSs) overt leukemia cells in the concentration range that normal hematopoiesis was spared. NCD25 and NCD38 invoked the myeloid development programs, hindered the MDS and AML oncogenic programs, and commonly upregulated 62 genes in several leukemia cells. NCD38 elevated H3K27ac level on enhancers of these LSD1 signature genes and newly activated ~500 super-enhancers. Upregulated genes with super-enhancer activation in erythroleukemia cells were enriched in leukocyte differentiation. Eleven genes including GFI1 and ERG, but not CEBPA, were identified as the LSD1 signature with super-enhancer activation. Super-enhancers of these genes were activated prior to induction of the transcripts and myeloid differentiation. Depletion of GFI1 attenuated myeloid differentiation by NCD38. Finally, a single administration of NCD38 causes the in vivo eradication of primary MDS-related leukemia cells with a complex karyotype. Together, NCD38 derepresses super-enhancers of hematopoietic regulators that are silenced abnormally by LSD1, attenuates leukemogenic programs and consequently exerts anti-leukemic effect against MDS-related leukemia with adverse outcome.

  2. Medicare program; inpatient rehabilitation facility prospective payment system for federal fiscal year 2014. Final rule.

    PubMed

    2013-08-06

    This final rule updates the prospective payment rates for inpatient rehabilitation facilities (IRFs) for federal fiscal year (FY) 2014 (for discharges occurring on or after October 1, 2013 and on or before September 30, 2014) as required by the statute. This final rule also revised the list of diagnosis codes that may be counted toward an IRF's "60 percent rule'' compliance calculation to determine "presumptive compliance,'' update the IRF facility-level adjustment factors using an enhanced estimation methodology, revise sections of the Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility-Patient Assessment Instrument, revise requirements for acute care hospitals that have IRF units, clarify the IRF regulation text regarding limitation of review, update references to previously changed sections in the regulations text, and revise and update quality measures and reporting requirements under the IRF quality reporting program.

  3. A program for undergraduate research into the mechanisms of sensory coding and memory decay

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

    Calin-Jageman, R J

    This is the final technical report for this DOE project, entitltled "A program for undergraduate research into the mechanisms of sensory coding and memory decay". The report summarizes progress on the three research aims: 1) to identify phyisological and genetic correlates of long-term habituation, 2) to understand mechanisms of olfactory coding, and 3) to foster a world-class undergraduate neuroscience program. Progress on the first aim has enabled comparison of learning-regulated transcripts across closely related learning paradigms and species, and results suggest that only a small core of transcripts serve truly general roles in long-term memory. Progress on the second aimmore » has enabled testing of several mutant phenotypes for olfactory behaviors, and results show that responses are not fully consistent with the combinitoral coding hypothesis. Finally, 14 undergraduate students participated in this research, the neuroscience program attracted extramural funding, and we completed a successful summer program to enhance transitions for community-college students into 4-year colleges to persue STEM fields.« less

  4. Accounting for location and timing in NO{sub x} emission trading programs. Final report

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

    Nichols, A.L.

    1997-12-01

    This report describes approaches to designing emission trading programs for nitrogen oxides (NO{sub x}) to account for the locations of emission sources. When a trading region is relatively small, program managers can assume that the location of the sources engaging in trades has little or no effect. However, if policy makers extend the program to larger regions, this assumption may be questioned. Therefore, EPRI has undertaken a survey of methods for incorporating location considerations into trading programs. Application of the best method may help to preserve, and even enhance, the flexibility and savings afforded utilities by emission trading.

  5. Enhancing extension recommendations to maximize efficacy of spray programs for the Georgia DOT : final report.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2015-12-23

    Research was conducted to evaluate equipment, adjuvants, and water quality used by the : Georgia DOT on herbicide efficacy for roadside management. From 19 DOT stations, 68% had alkaline : (7.1 to 7.9) water, 32% had hard water (>120 ppm), and 10% ha...

  6. A Case Study of Self-Affirmations in Teacher Education

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Robinson, Scott

    2014-01-01

    This qualitative study reports on what was learned from two former teacher candidates, who engaged in self-affirmation writing exercises in an education seminar during their final semester in a teacher education program. Self-affirmations, as presented here, are brief psychological interventions designed to enhance the self-integrity of teacher…

  7. Data management and language enhancement for generalized set theory computer language for operation of large relational databases

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Finley, Gail T.

    1988-01-01

    This report covers the study of the relational database implementation in the NASCAD computer program system. The existing system is used primarily for computer aided design. Attention is also directed to a hidden-surface algorithm for final drawing output.

  8. Bilingual Human Services Educational Consortium. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Maine Univ., Orono. Bangor Community Coll.

    This report presents results of the third year of a project designed to enhance employability and career mobility of limited English speaking Franco-American adults in jobs providing services for the elderly. The first section states project objectives of the college-level, credit-bearing program conducted at five university campuses: (1) to…

  9. 76 FR 66849 - Applying for Free and Reduced Price Meals in the National School Lunch Program and School...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-10-28

    ... agency, and requirements to enhance descriptive materials distributed to families. This rule finalizes... design. The rule added language reflecting the statutory requirement that any communication with... in student households through the Home Language Survey. FNS will promote providing NSLP application...

  10. French immersion experience and reading skill development in at-risk readers.

    PubMed

    Kruk, Richard S; Reynolds, Kristin A A

    2012-06-01

    We tracked the developmental influences of exposure to French on developing English phonological awareness, decoding and reading comprehension of English-speaking at-risk readers from Grade 1 to Grade 3. Teacher-nominated at-risk readers were matched with not-at-risk readers in French immersion and English language programs. Exposure to spoken French phonetic and syllabic forms and to written French orthographic and morphological forms by children attending French immersion programs was expected to promote phonological, decoding and reading comprehension achievement. Growth in all outcomes was found, with children in immersion experiencing higher final status in phonological awareness and more rapid growth and higher final status in decoding, using multilevel modeling. At-risk readers in French immersion experienced faster growth and higher final status in reading comprehension. Benefits to reading of exposure to an additional language are discussed in relation to cross-language transfer, phonological grain size and enhanced executive control processes.

  11. An efficient annealing in Boltzmann machine in Hopfield neural network

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kin, Teoh Yeong; Hasan, Suzanawati Abu; Bulot, Norhisam; Ismail, Mohammad Hafiz

    2012-09-01

    This paper proposes and implements Boltzmann machine in Hopfield neural network doing logic programming based on the energy minimization system. The temperature scheduling in Boltzmann machine enhancing the performance of doing logic programming in Hopfield neural network. The finest temperature is determined by observing the ratio of global solution and final hamming distance using computer simulations. The study shows that Boltzmann Machine model is more stable and competent in term of representing and solving difficult combinatory problems.

  12. Absence and leave; sick leave. Final rule.

    PubMed

    2010-12-03

    The U.S. Office of Personnel Management is issuing final regulations on the use of sick leave and advanced sick leave for serious communicable diseases, including pandemic influenza when appropriate. We are also permitting employees to substitute up to 26 weeks of accrued or accumulated sick leave for unpaid Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) leave to care for a seriously injured or ill covered servicemember, as authorized under the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008, including up to 30 days of advanced sick leave for this purpose. Finally, we are reorganizing the existing sick leave regulations to enhance reader understanding and administration of the program.

  13. Enhancing Teacher Performance in Spanish Elementary Classes. Volume Two: Translated Units. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Johansen, Barry-Craig P.; And Others

    Spanish translations of 19 of the Minneapolis (Minnesota) Public Schools' elementary school science units are presented. The materials were translated for use in a partial immersion program. Unit topics include, among others: magnets, organisms (grade 1), seeds and plants (grade 1), butterflies (grade 2), electricity (grade 3), the food chain…

  14. Project Developmental Continuity Evaluation: Final Report. Volume I: Outcomes of the PDC Intervention.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bond, James T.; And Others

    The first of two volumes, this document reports an evaluation of Project Developmental Continuity (PDC), a Head Start demonstration project initiated in 1974 to develop program models which enhance children's social competence by fostering developmental continuity from preschool through the early elementary years. In general, the impact of program…

  15. Workplace Skills Enhancement Project, Seattle-King County Private Industry Council (PIC). Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Snedeker, David M.

    Evaluative information is provided on 18 completed workplace literacy classes conducted in the Seattle-King County, Washington, area for 218 limited English proficient workers. The programs were operated by the Employment Opportunities Center and the Refugee Service Federation. Participants were members of the following ethnic groups: Vietnamese,…

  16. Enhancement of Productive Thinking in Institutionalized Mental Retardates. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ladner, Judith L.

    The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a supplementary program of 30 lessons to increase the productive thinking abilities (divergent thinking) of educable mentally handicapped students. An experimental group of 30 institutionalized children were given the supplementary lessons at a rate of three per week. The lessons, based…

  17. Using Microcomputer-Based Logistics Models to Enhance Supportability Assessment for the USAF Productivity, Reliability, Availability and Maintainability (PRAM) Program Office: A Tailored Approach

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1989-09-01

    goes on to discuss how the innovation process should function within an organization, including five specific phases for successfully managing ... innovation : the recognition of opportunity; idea formulation; product defin- ition; prototype solution; and finally, technology utiliza- tion and diffusion

  18. 78 FR 26063 - Central Utah Project Completion Act; East Hobble Creek Restoration Project Final Environmental...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-05-03

    ... releases, and enhancement of the existing water supply. Dated: April 15, 2013. Reed R. Murray, Program... Environmental Assessment AGENCY: Office of the Assistant Secretary for Water and Science, Interior; Utah...: Central Utah Water Conservancy District, 355 West University Parkway, Orem, Utah 84058-7303 Department of...

  19. Exploring the Past. "A Senior Literacy Model." Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Greater Erie Community Action Committee, PA.

    A program of basic language/writing skills was designed to enhance the literacy levels of 24 multicultural seniors, aged 65 or older, who were recruited from senior centers throughout Erie County, Pennsylvania. Computer literacy and basic word processing skills were taught along with basic language/writing skills in a nonthreatening learning…

  20. Effect of Purification Procedures on DIF Analysis in IRTPRO

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Fikis, David R. J.; Oshima, T. C.

    2017-01-01

    Purification of the test has been a well-accepted procedure in enhancing the performance of tests for differential item functioning (DIF). As defined by Lord, purification requires reestimation of ability parameters after removing DIF items before conducting the final DIF analysis. IRTPRO 3 is a recently updated program for analyses in item…

  1. 78 FR 35922 - Endocrine Disruptor Screening Program; Final Second List of Chemicals and Substances for Tier 1...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-06-14

    ... the estrogen, androgen, or thyroid hormone systems) using a battery of assays. Substances that have... testing, the validated tests and battery that will be included in EDSP, or the timeframe for requiring the... within the schedule, enhancing efficiency. Currently, however, EPA does not have an information...

  2. USAF Summer Research Program - 1994 Summer Faculty Research Program Final Reports, Volume 5B, Wright Laboratory

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1994-12-01

    PPG1160-BP, PPG1290-BP, and PPG1290-BPE were examined by x - ray diffraction.12󈧑 The plain ionenes and their simple TCNQ salts were amorphous. The...iodine. X - ray and infrared data supported the concept that 42-13 polycrystalline PA existed within amorphous PB. The PA in the blend, depending on...assessed by in situ Auger Spectroscopy or X - ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy. The typical values of surface concentration enhancement of a diluted

  3. Nonnegative constraint quadratic program technique to enhance the resolution of γ spectra

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Jinglun; Xiao, Wuyun; Ai, Xianyun; Chen, Ye

    2018-04-01

    Two concepts of the nonnegative least squares problem (NNLS) and the linear complementarity problem (LCP) are introduced for the resolution enhancement of the γ spectra. The respective algorithms such as the active set method and the primal-dual interior point method are applied to solve the above two problems. In mathematics, the nonnegative constraint results in the sparsity of the optimal solution of the deconvolution, and it is this sparsity that enhances the resolution. Finally, a comparison in the peak position accuracy and the computation time is made between these two methods and the boosted L_R and Gold methods.

  4. Langley Research Center Strategic Plan for Education

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Proctor, Sandra B.

    1994-01-01

    Research assignment centered on the preparation of final draft of the NASA Langley Strategic Plan for Education. Primary research activity consisted of data collection, through interviews with LaRC Office of Education and NASA Headquarters staff, university administrators and faculty, and school administrators / teachers; and documentary analysis. Pre-college and university programs were critically reviewed to assure effectiveness, support of NASA and Langley's mission and goals; National Education Goals; and educational reform strategies. In addition to these mandates, pre-college programs were reviewed to address present and future LaRC activities for teacher enhancement and preparation. University programs were reviewed with emphasis on student support and recruitment; faculty development and enhancement; and LaRC's role in promoting the utilization of educational technologies and distance learning. The LaRC Strategic Plan for Education will enable the Office of Education to provide a focused and well planned continuum of education programs for students, teachers and faculty. It will serve to direct and focus present activities and programs while simultaneously offering the flexibility to address new and emerging directions based on changing national, state, and agency trends.

  5. Getting to the Point: Storying the United States Military Academy’s and Its Preparatory School’s English Program.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1998-01-01

    34modules" identified as key to the needed changes at the Prep School (Final 11). Three modules— composition/grammar, precalculus mathematics, and...composition/grammar and performance enhancement, and precalculus mathematics) set out to determine how to define mathematics "gateways," to examine

  6. 78 FR 55261 - Draft Guidance for Industry on Generic Drug User Fee Amendments of 2012: Questions and Answers...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-09-10

    ... public and reduce costs to industry. GDUFA enables FDA to assess user fees to support critical and... assess user fees to support critical and measurable enhancements to FDA's generic drugs program. GDUFA...). The draft guidance, when finalized, will represent the Agency's current thinking on ``Generic Drug...

  7. Aboriginal-Enhanced Access to Native Learning: A Literacy Project of the Native Women's Resource Centre. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Gaikezheyongai, Sally

    Ways of increasing awareness of and access to literacy programs for Native people in Toronto, Ontario, were examined. Data were collected through the following activities: a literature review; meetings with stakeholders and the public; surveys of learners, Native literacy workers, executive directors, and steering committee members; and focus…

  8. Enhancing Opportunities in Job Markets: Summary of Research and Recommendations for Policy. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Pascal, Anthony N.

    As a result of research conducted for the Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO) regarding opportunities in the job market, this report includes: (1) a description of the policy and program recommendations suggested by research findings, and (2) a synthesis of research findings applicable to OEO, particularly highlighting their relevance to…

  9. Automated Pilot Performance Assessment in the T-37: A Feasibility Study. Final Report (May 1968-April 1971).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Knoop, Patricia A.; Welde, William L.

    Air Force investigators conducted a three year program to develop a capability for automated quantification and assessment of in-flight pilot performance. Such a capability enhances pilot training by making ratings more objective, valid, reliable and sensitive, and by freeing instructors from rating responsibilities, allowing them to concentrate…

  10. National Evaluation of Early Reading First. Final Report to Congress. NCEE 2007-4007

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Jackson, Russell; McCoy, Ann; Pistorino, Carol; Wilkinson, Anna; Burghardt, John; Clark, Melissa; Ross, Christine; Schochet, Peter; Swank, Paul

    2007-01-01

    The No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act of 2001 created the Early Reading First (ERF) program to enhance teacher practices, instructional content, and classroom environments in preschools and to help ensure that young children start school with the skills needed for academic success. This report to Congress describes the impacts of the Early Reading…

  11. Workplace Communication Skills, Workplace Basic Skills, & Literacy Training in UAW-Chrysler Region 3. Final Performance Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Indiana Vocational Technical Coll., Indianapolis.

    A workplace literacy partnership program model was demonstrated at four Chrysler plants in Indiana. Objectives were to improve workers' individual skills, enhance personal productivity, and increase work force job security and plant competitiveness. During the 3-month start-up phase, project staff worked with management and labor representatives…

  12. Final Report of the Project "T & N Bucks." 1979-80.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Old Bridge Township Board of Education, NJ.

    During the 1979-80 school year, the Old Bridge Township School District promoted and implemented a career education program. Its chief aim was to expand career education from the middle school into the elementary and special education divisions. The project was used as a vehicle to enhance career education, expand and involve elementary teachers,…

  13. Flow in porous media, phase behavior and ultralow interfacial tensions: mechanisms of enhanced petroleum recovery. Final technical report

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

    Davis, H.T.; Scriven, L.E.

    1982-01-01

    A major program of university research, longer-ranged and more fundamental in approach than industrial research, into basic mechanisms of enhancing petroleum recovery and into underlying physics, chemistry, geology, applied mathematics, computation, and engineering science has been built at Minnesota. The 1982 outputs of the interdisciplinary team of investigators were again ideas, instruments, techniques, data, understanding and skilled people: forty-one scientific and engineering papers in leading journals; four pioneering Ph.D. theses; numerous presentations to scientific and technical meetings, and to industrial, governmental and university laboratories; vigorous program of research visits to and from Minnesota; and two outstanding Ph.D.'s to research positionsmore » in the petroleum industry, one to a university faculty position, one to research leadership in a governmental institute. This report summarizes the 1982 papers and theses and features sixteen major accomplishments of the program during that year. Abstracts of all forty-five publications in the permanent literature are appended. Further details of information transfer and personnel exchange with industrial, governmental and university laboratories appear in 1982 Quarterly Reports available from the Department of Energy and are not reproduced here. The Minnesota program continues in 1983, notwithstanding earlier uncertainty about the DOE funding which finally materialized and is the bulk of support. Supplemental grants-in-aid from nine companies in the petroleum industry are important, as are the limited University and departmental contributions. 839 references, 172 figures, 29 tables.« less

  14. Hot section viewing system

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Morey, W. W.

    1983-01-01

    The objective of the hot section viewing program is to develop a prototype optical system for viewing the interior of a gas turbine combustor during high temperature, high pressure operation in order to produce a visual record of some causes of premature hot section failures. The program began by identifying and analyzing system designs that would provide clearest images while being able to survive the hostile environment inside the combustion chamber. Different illumination methods and computer techniques for image enhancement and analysis were examined during a preliminary test phase. In the final phase of the program the prototype system was designed and fabricated and is currently being tested on a high pressure combustor rig.

  15. A FAST POLYNOMIAL TRANSFORM PROGRAM WITH A MODULARIZED STRUCTURE

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Truong, T. K.

    1994-01-01

    This program utilizes a fast polynomial transformation (FPT) algorithm applicable to two-dimensional mathematical convolutions. Two-dimensional convolution has many applications, particularly in image processing. Two-dimensional cyclic convolutions can be converted to a one-dimensional convolution in a polynomial ring. Traditional FPT methods decompose the one-dimensional cyclic polynomial into polynomial convolutions of different lengths. This program will decompose a cyclic polynomial into polynomial convolutions of the same length. Thus, only FPTs and Fast Fourier Transforms of the same length are required. This modular approach can save computational resources. To further enhance its appeal, the program is written in the transportable 'C' language. The steps in the algorithm are: 1) formulate the modulus reduction equations, 2) calculate the polynomial transforms, 3) multiply the transforms using a generalized fast Fourier transformation, 4) compute the inverse polynomial transforms, and 5) reconstruct the final matrices using the Chinese remainder theorem. Input to this program is comprised of the row and column dimensions and the initial two matrices. The matrices are printed out at all steps, ending with the final reconstruction. This program is written in 'C' for batch execution and has been implemented on the IBM PC series of computers under DOS with a central memory requirement of approximately 18K of 8 bit bytes. This program was developed in 1986.

  16. Transforming an Introductory Programming Course: From Lectures to Active Learning via Wireless Laptops

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Barak, Miri; Harward, Judson; Kocur, George; Lerman, Steven

    2007-08-01

    Within the framework of MIT's course 1.00: Introduction to Computers and Engineering Problem Solving, this paper describes an innovative project entitled: Studio 1.00 that integrates lectures with in-class demonstrations, active learning sessions, and on-task feedback, through the use of wireless laptop computers. This paper also describes a related evaluation study that investigated the effectiveness of different instructional strategies, comparing traditional teaching with two models of the studio format. Students' learning outcomes, specifically, their final grades and conceptual understanding of computational methods and programming, were examined. Findings indicated that Studio-1.00, in both its extensive- and partial-active learning modes, enhanced students' learning outcomes in Java programming. Comparing to the traditional courses, more students in the studio courses received "A" as their final grade and less failed. Moreover, students who regularly attended the active learning sessions were able to conceptualize programming principles better than their peers. We have also found two weaknesses in the teaching format of Studio-1.00 that can guide future versions of the course.

  17. Establishment of a Business Training Center and Development of Partnerships with Local High Schools and Businesses. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Carter, Kathleen G.

    In 1989, Salem Community College (SCC) developed a Business Training Center (BTC) to enhance and/or develop significant partnerships with high schools and business and industry. Through the Center, SCC implemented programs of study and shared services and/or externships with the DuPont Company and three local high schools. The partnership with…

  18. Museums and Libraries Engaging America's Youth: Final Report of a Study of IMLS Youth Programs, 1998-2003

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Koke, Judy; Dierking, Lynn

    2007-01-01

    The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) helps museums and libraries preserve our cultural heritage, enhance learning and innovation, and develop staff capacities to provide the best in service to our communities. IMLS has a long-standing commitment to funding grants and sponsoring research on the subject of how both preschool and…

  19. Implementation of the Credit Enhancement for Charter School Facilities Program. Final Report

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Temkin, Kenneth; Hong, Grace; Davis, Laurel; Bavin, William

    2008-01-01

    The number of charter schools has grown rapidly from 250 in 1995 to about 4,000 by 2007, now enrolling more than 1.1 million students in the United States. Charter schools face many challenges when they attempt to purchase or lease permanent facilities and frequently operate in temporary space that is poorly suited for delivering educational…

  20. Development of a Wheelchair Skills Home Program for Older Adults Using a Participatory Action Design Approach

    PubMed Central

    Giesbrecht, Edward M.; Miller, William C.; Mitchell, Ian M.; Woodgate, Roberta L.

    2014-01-01

    Restricted mobility is the most common impairment among older adults and a manual wheelchair is often prescribed to address these limitations. However, limited access to rehabilitation services results in older adults typically receiving little or no mobility training when they receive a wheelchair. As an alternative and novel approach, we developed a therapist-monitored wheelchair skills home training program delivered via a computer tablet. To optimize efficacy and adherence, principles of self-efficacy and adult learning theory were foundational in the program design. A participatory action design approach was used to engage older adult wheelchair users, care providers, and prescribing clinicians in an iterative design and development process. A series of prototypes were fabricated and revised, based on feedback from eight stakeholder focus groups, until a final version was ready for evaluation in a clinical trial. Stakeholder contributions affirmed and enhanced the foundational theoretical principles and provided validation of the final product for the target population. PMID:25276768

  1. 78 FR 47859 - Medicare Program; Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility Prospective Payment System for Federal Fiscal...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-08-06

    ...This final rule updates the prospective payment rates for inpatient rehabilitation facilities (IRFs) for federal fiscal year (FY) 2014 (for discharges occurring on or after October 1, 2013 and on or before September 30, 2014) as required by the statute. This final rule also revised the list of diagnosis codes that may be counted toward an IRF's ``60 percent rule'' compliance calculation to determine ``presumptive compliance,'' update the IRF facility-level adjustment factors using an enhanced estimation methodology, revise sections of the Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility-Patient Assessment Instrument, revise requirements for acute care hospitals that have IRF units, clarify the IRF regulation text regarding limitation of review, update references to previously changed sections in the regulations text, and revise and update quality measures and reporting requirements under the IRF quality reporting program.

  2. SRDS Technical Program Document, Fiscal Year 1982 Research and Development Approved Projects.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1982-01-01

    U.JIORF NUfl.Pj: 202-u26-9240 QFS ;AF-20/FE32 AGAFF £NT5;rf.E PUI).EiIJE’ TTCVlM CFA.II~ i AQFLFA FRvT jFl~ii: U GINIZATICN NAKE .: AGRFFEMT RUBBER~ F:’.A...D.EVELOPMENTS AND ENHANCEMENTS. THIS SYSTEM PERFORMANCE DATA WELL 𔃺NTRIBUTE TO THE INFORIMATION CUR!RENTLY AVAILABLE FOE NAKING DECISIONS TO IMPLEMENT...Z.cTSS/AP.TF ITIA IPE INTEGRATIONI ANAL Rp COPPLAEYE - 6/81 ~U N FINAL :,ITE -ANAL REPORT COMPL_( TEEN SEC I. SPACING) 11/81 ATMR FINAL FURCTIOFAL

  3. Enhancing pediatric residents’ scholar role: the development of a Scholarly Activity Guidance and Evaluation program

    PubMed Central

    Pound, Catherine M.; Moreau, Katherine A.; Ward, Natalie; Eady, Kaylee; Writer, Hilary

    2015-01-01

    Background Research training is essential to the development of well-rounded physicians. Although many pediatric residency programs require residents to complete a research project, it is often challenging to integrate research training into educational programs. Objective We aimed to develop an innovative research program for pediatric residents, called the Scholarly Activity Guidance and Evaluation (SAGE) program. Methods We developed a competency-based program which establishes benchmarks for pediatric residents, while providing ongoing academic mentorship. Results Feedback from residents and their research supervisors about the SAGE program has been positive. Preliminary evaluation data have shown that all final-year residents have met or exceeded program expectations. Conclusions By providing residents with this supportive environment, we hope to influence their academic career paths, increase their research productivity, promote evidence-based practice, and ultimately, positively impact health outcomes. PMID:26059213

  4. Sustainability of teacher implementation of school-based mental health programs.

    PubMed

    Han, Susan S; Weiss, Bahr

    2005-12-01

    Evidence-based prevention and intervention programs are increasingly being implemented in schools and it therefore is becoming increasingly important to understand the complexities of program implementation under real-world conditions. Much research has focused on the contextual factors that influence program implementation but less work has attempted to provide an integrated understanding of mechanisms (e.g., teacher-training processes) that affect teachers' program implementation. In this paper, we review literature on factors related to teachers' implementation of school-based prevention and intervention programs, then from this review abstract what we believe are four basic ingredients that characterize potentially sustainable teacher-implemented classroom programs. Finally, we present a sequential model, based on these ingredients, of the naturalistic processes underlying sustainability of teachers' program implementation and describe how this sustainability can be enhanced through provision of teacher training and performance feedback from a classroom consultant.

  5. Enhancing literacy practices in science classrooms through a professional development program for Canadian minority-language teachers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rivard, Léonard P.; Gueye, Ndeye R.

    2016-05-01

    Literacy in the Science Classroom Project was a three-year professional development (PD) program supporting minority-language secondary teachers' use of effective language-based instructional strategies for teaching science. Our primary objective was to determine how teacher beliefs and practices changed over time and how these were enacted in different classrooms. We also wanted to identify the challenges and enablers to implementing these literacy strategies and practices at the classroom, school, and district levels. Data collection involved both qualitative and quantitative methodologies: student questionnaires; interviews with teachers, principals, and mentor; and focus groups with students. The findings suggest that the program had an impact on beliefs and practices commensurate with the workshop participation of individual teachers. These language-enhanced teacher practices also had a positive impact on the use of talking, reading and writing by students in the science classroom. Finally, continuing PD support may be needed in certain jurisdictions for strengthening minority-language programs given the high teacher mobility in content-area classrooms evident in this study.

  6. The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Nurse Faculty Scholars Program: An opportunity for junior nurse faculty

    PubMed Central

    Coffman, Maren J.; Goodman, Janice H.; Thomas, Tami L.; Roberson, Donna

    2014-01-01

    The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Nurse Faculty Scholars program provides promising junior faculty extramural funding, expert mentoring, and the training needed to be successful in the academic role. The Nurse Faculty Scholars program, which admitted its first cohort in 2008, is designed to address the nursing faculty shortage by enhancing leadership, educational, and research skills in junior nursing faculty. This article provides an overview of the program, its purpose, and its eligibility requirements. The authors give strategies for selecting mentors, developing the written application, and preparing for an oral interview. Finally, the authors provide an analysis of funded institutions, research design and methods from current and recently funded projects, and rank and positions held by nursing mentors. PMID:22818282

  7. Easing student transition to graduate nurse: a SIMulated Professional Learning Environment (SIMPLE) for final year student nurses.

    PubMed

    Liaw, Sok Ying; Koh, Yiwen; Dawood, Rabiah; Kowitlawakul, Yanika; Zhou, Wentao; Lau, Siew Tiang

    2014-03-01

    Preparing nursing students for making the transition to graduate nurse is crucial for entry into practice. Final year student nurses at the National University of Singapore (NUS) are required to undergo a consolidated clinical practice to prepare them for their transition to graduate nurse. To describe the development, implementation and evaluation of a simulation program known as SIMulated Professional Learning Environment (SIMPLE) in preparing the final year student nurses for their clinical practicum in transition to graduate nurse practice. A set of simulation features and best practices were used as conceptual framework to develop and implement the simulation program. 94 final year student nurses participated in the 15-hour SIMPLE program that incorporated multiple simulation scenarios based on actual ward clinical practices. Pre and post-tests were conducted to assess the students' preparedness for their clinical practice in transition to graduate nurse practice. The students also completed a satisfaction questionnaire and open questions to evaluate their simulation experiences. The student nurses demonstrated a significant improvement (t=12.06, p<0.01) on post-test score (mean=117.21, SD=15.17) from pre-test score (mean=97.86, SD=15.08) for their perceived preparedness towards their clinical practicum in transition to graduate nurse practice. They were highly satisfied with their simulation learning. Themes emerged from the comments on the most valuable aspects of the SIMPLE program and ways to improve the program. The study provided evidences on the effectiveness of the SIMPLE program in enhancing the students' preparedness for their transition to graduate nurse practice. A key success of the SIMPLE program was the used of simulation strategy and the involvement of practicing nurses that closely linked the students with the realities of current nursing practice to prepare them for the role of staff nurses. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  8. 78 FR 68505 - Enhancing Protections Afforded Customers and Customer Funds Held by Futures Commission Merchants...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-11-14

    ...The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (``Commission'' or ``CFTC'') is adopting new regulations and amending existing regulations to require enhanced customer protections, risk management programs, internal monitoring and controls, capital and liquidity standards, customer disclosures, and auditing and examination programs for futures commission merchants (``FCMs''). The regulations also address certain related issues concerning derivatives clearing organizations (``DCOs'') and chief compliance officers (``CCOs''). The final rules will afford greater assurances to market participants that: Customer segregated funds, secured amount funds, and cleared swaps funds are protected; customers are provided with appropriate notice of the risks of futures trading and of the FCMs with which they may choose to do business; FCMs are monitoring and managing risks in a robust manner; the capital and liquidity of FCMs are strengthened to safeguard their continued operations; and the auditing and examination programs of the Commission and the self- regulatory organizations (``SROs'') are monitoring the activities of FCMs in a prudent and thorough manner.

  9. Task Order 2 enhanced preliminary assessment, Fort Douglas, Salt Lake City, Utah. Final report, October-December 1989

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

    Mirchandani, M.G.; Johnson, G.M.; Bove, L.J.

    1989-12-01

    An enhanced preliminary assessment (PA) of air pollution was conducted at Fort Douglas (FD) under the Base Closure Program. FD is an active military installation located in Salt Lake City, Utah. The Fort consists of the U.S. Army and Navy Reserve Centers, family housing units, a military museum, a chapel, clubs, swimming pool, a cemetery and various other support buildings. 50.8 acres of the 119 acres owned by FD are proposed to be excessed. Based on information obtained during the onsite visit and from available drawings and reports, three environmentally significant operations (ESOs) have been identified. These include asbestos, radonmore » and transformers. No immediate action has been recommended for any of the ESOs. Site investigations have been recommended for asbestos and the transformers. A radon sampling program is currently underway at FD. This radon sampling program is being conducted by Fort Carson; the results should be evaluated as they become available, and the appropriate actions taken.« less

  10. Advanced Earth-to-orbit propulsion technology program overview: Impact of civil space technology initiative

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Stephenson, Frank W., Jr.

    1988-01-01

    The NASA Earth-to-Orbit (ETO) Propulsion Technology Program is dedicated to advancing rocket engine technologies for the development of fully reusable engine systems that will enable space transportation systems to achieve low cost, routine access to space. The program addresses technology advancements in the areas of engine life extension/prediction, performance enhancements, reduced ground operations costs, and in-flight fault tolerant engine operations. The primary objective is to acquire increased knowledge and understanding of rocket engine chemical and physical processes in order to evolve more realistic analytical simulations of engine internal environments, to derive more accurate predictions of steady and unsteady loads, and using improved structural analyses, to more accurately predict component life and performance, and finally to identify and verify more durable advanced design concepts. In addition, efforts were focused on engine diagnostic needs and advances that would allow integrated health monitoring systems to be developed for enhanced maintainability, automated servicing, inspection, and checkout, and ultimately, in-flight fault tolerant engine operations.

  11. A short history of the Science and Mathematics Education Centre at Curtin University

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Treagust, David F.

    2011-09-01

    This article is presented in four parts. In the first part, I describe the foundation of the Science and Mathematics Education Centre (SMEC) at Curtin University. In the second part, I explain the development of SMEC's teaching and research capacity under its three directors. In the third section, I describe how federal government support of SMEC as a national Key Centre for Teaching and Research in School Science and Mathematics provided enhanced postgraduate study opportunities for science and mathematics teachers throughout Australia by offering degree programs through distance education and face-to-face contact, short courses, and seminars. At the same time, research and teaching capacity of the academic staff was enhanced through the internationalisation of the programs being offered. In the final section, I describe current and future developments at SMEC.

  12. AstroBus On-Board Software

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Biscarros, D.; Cantenot, C.; Séronie-Vivien, J.; Schmidt, G.

    AstroBus on-board software is a customisable software for ERC32 based avionics implementing standard ESA Packet Utilization Standard functions. Its architecture based on generic design templates and relying on a library providing standard PUS TC, TM and event services enhances its reusability on various programs. Finally, AstroBus on-board software development and validation environment is based on last generation tools providing an optimised customisation environment.

  13. Task Force on the Role of General Education in Associate Science Degree Programs. Final Report and Recommendations.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Weyers, Lori; Langerman, Philip

    In 1989-90, the General Education Task Force of the Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) was convened to determine the role of the general education curriculum in the attainment of skills that enhance the likelihood of success among technical college graduates in their careers, homes and communities. The Task Force consisted of at least one…

  14. Feasibility of Urban Service Opportunity and Curricular Amplification: "The St. Louis Project." Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Guthrie, Robert V.; And Others

    A study was made to test the feasibility of a small college (located some distance from a city) establishing a residence unit within a slum or transitional area of a city. The purposes of such a program, in which students and faculty live in the city while continuing their normal course work, would be to: (1) enhance the curriculum by broadening…

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

    McCarty, Jon; Berry, Brian; Lundberg, Kare

    This final report describes a 2000-2003 program for the development of components and processes to enhance the commercialization of ultra-low emissions catalytic combustion in industrial gas turbines. The range of project tasks includes: development of more durable, lower-cost catalysts and catalytic combustor components; development and design of a catalytic pre-burner and a catalytic pilot burner for gas turbines, and on-site fuel conversion processing for utilization of liquid fuel.

  16. Organizational Decisions.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1982-03-01

    empirical outcomes. Since performance depends on the probabilities of obtaining valued outcomes ( Vroom , 1964), effort should be enhanced by easy goals...COVERED ORGANIZATIONAL DECISIONS FINAL 6. PERFORMING ORG. REPORT NUMBER 7. AUTHOR(s) 0. CONTRACT OR GRANT NUMBER(e) BERNARD M. BASS NO 0014-80-CO438 9... PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME AND ADDRESS 10. PROGRAM ELEMENT. PROJECT, TASK AREA a WORK UNIT NUMBERSBERNARD M. BASS, Ph.D. 2135 WEST IIAMTON ROAD

  17. Concrete containment aging study

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

    Pachner, J.; Tai, T.M.; Naus, D.

    1994-04-01

    In 1989, IAEA initiated a pilot study on the management of aging of nuclear power plant components. The Phase I and II studies of concrete containment are discussed. With the data base, plant owners will be able to review and enhance their existing programs. IAEA will analyze data provided by participating plants and the report is scheduled to be released by late 1994 (final report release mid-1995).

  18. Technology-enhanced program for child disruptive behavior disorders: development and pilot randomized control trial.

    PubMed

    Jones, Deborah J; Forehand, Rex; Cuellar, Jessica; Parent, Justin; Honeycutt, Amanda; Khavjou, Olga; Gonzalez, Michelle; Anton, Margaret; Newey, Greg A

    2014-01-01

    Early onset disruptive behavior disorders are overrepresented in low-income families; yet these families are less likely to engage in behavioral parent training (BPT) than other groups. This project aimed to develop and pilot test a technology-enhanced version of one evidence-based BPT program, Helping the Noncompliant Child (HNC). The aim was to increase engagement of low-income families and, in turn, child behavior outcomes, with potential cost-savings associated with greater treatment efficiency. Low-income families of 3- to 8-year-old children with clinically significant disruptive behaviors were randomized to and completed standard HNC (n = 8) or Technology-Enhanced HNC (TE-HNC; n = 7). On average, caregivers were 37 years old; 87% were female, and 80% worked at least part-time. More than half (53%) of the youth were boys; the average age of the sample was 5.67 years. All families received the standard HNC program; however, TE-HNC also included the following smartphone enhancements: (a) skills video series, (b) brief daily surveys, (c) text message reminders, (d) video recording home practice, and (e) midweek video calls. TE-HNC yielded larger effect sizes than HNC for all engagement outcomes. Both groups yielded clinically significant improvements in disruptive behavior; however, findings suggest that the greater program engagement associated with TE-HNC boosted child treatment outcome. Further evidence for the boost afforded by the technology is revealed in family responses to postassessment interviews. Finally, cost analysis suggests that TE-HNC families also required fewer sessions than HNC families to complete the program, an efficiency that did not compromise family satisfaction. TE-HNC shows promise as an innovative approach to engaging low-income families in BPT with potential cost-savings and, therefore, merits further investigation on a larger scale.

  19. Technology-Enhanced Program for Child Disruptive Behavior Disorders: Development and Pilot Randomized Control Trial

    PubMed Central

    Jones, Deborah J.; Forehand, Rex; Cuellar, Jessica; Parent, Justin; Honeycutt, Amanda; Khavjou, Olga; Gonzalez, Michelle; Anton, Margaret; Newey, Greg A.

    2013-01-01

    Objective Early onset Disruptive Behavior Disorders (DBDs) are overrepresented in low-income families; yet, these families are less likely to engage in Behavioral Parent Training (BPT) than other groups. This project aimed to develop and pilot test a technology-enhanced version of one evidence-based BPT program, Helping the Noncompliant Child (HNC). The aim was to increase engagement of low-income families and, in turn, child behavior outcomes, with potential cost-savings associated with greater treatment efficiency. Method Low-income families of 3-to-8 year old children with clinically-significant disruptive behaviors were randomized to and completed standard HNC (n =8) or technology-enhanced HNC (TE-HNC) (n = 7). On average, caregivers were 37 years old, female (87%), and most (80%) worked at least part-time. Half (53%) of the youth were boys, average age of the sample was 5.67 years. All families received the standard HNC program; however, TE-HNC also included the following smartphone-enhancements: (1). Skills video series; (2). Brief daily surveys; (3). Text message reminders; (4). Video recording home practice; and (5). Mid-week video calls. Results TE-HNC yielded larger effect sizes than HNC for all engagement outcomes. Both groups yielded clinically significant improvements in disruptive behavior; however, findings suggest that the greater program engagement associated with TE-HNC boosted child treatment outcome. Further evidence for the boost afforded by the technology is revealed in family responses to post-assessment interviews. Finally, cost analysis suggests that TE-HNC families also required fewer sessions than HNC families to complete the program, an efficiency that did not compromise family satisfaction. Conclusions TE-HNC shows promise as an innovative approach to engaging low-income families in BPT with potential cost-savings and, therefore, merits further investigation on a larger scale. PMID:23924046

  20. Medicare and state health care programs: fraud and abuse; safe harbor for federally qualified health centers arrangements under the anti-kickback statute. Final rule.

    PubMed

    2007-10-04

    In accordance with section 431 of the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003 (MMA), this final rule sets forth a safe harbor under the anti-kickback statute to protect certain arrangements involving goods, items, services, donations, and loans provided by individuals and entities to certain health centers funded under section 330 of the Public Health Service Act. The goods, items, services, donations, or loans must contribute to the health center's ability to maintain or increase the availability, or enhance the quality, of services available to a medically underserved population.

  1. Medicare and Medicaid Programs; Emergency Preparedness Requirements for Medicare and Medicaid Participating Providers and Suppliers. Final rule.

    PubMed

    2016-09-16

    This final rule establishes national emergency preparedness requirements for Medicare- and Medicaid-participating providers and suppliers to plan adequately for both natural and man-made disasters, and coordinate with federal, state, tribal, regional, and local emergency preparedness systems. It will also assist providers and suppliers to adequately prepare to meet the needs of patients, residents, clients, and participants during disasters and emergency situations. Despite some variations, our regulations will provide consistent emergency preparedness requirements, enhance patient safety during emergencies for persons served by Medicare- and Medicaid-participating facilities, and establish a more coordinated and defined response to natural and man-made disasters.

  2. Focusing Resources on Effective School Health: A FRESH Start to Enhancing the Quality and Equity of Education. World Education Forum 2000. Final Report = Accorder la priorite a un programme efficace de sante scolaire: Une maniere FRAICHE (FRESH) d'aneliorer la qualite et d'accroitre l'equite dans le domaine de l'education. Forum mondial 2000 sur l'education. Rapport final = Recursos efectivos en salud escolar: Un enfogue NUEVO para mejorar la calidad y la equidad educativa. Foro Mundial par la educacion 2000. Informe final.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization, Paris (France).

    This booklet, written in English, Spanish, and French, describes the foundation and reasoning behind the partnership to Focus on Resources on Effective School Health (FRESH), making the case that an effective school health program: responds to the greater number of school-age children and the greater proportion of those children attending school;…

  3. Induction of autophagy by spermidine promotes longevity.

    PubMed

    Eisenberg, Tobias; Knauer, Heide; Schauer, Alexandra; Büttner, Sabrina; Ruckenstuhl, Christoph; Carmona-Gutierrez, Didac; Ring, Julia; Schroeder, Sabrina; Magnes, Christoph; Antonacci, Lucia; Fussi, Heike; Deszcz, Luiza; Hartl, Regina; Schraml, Elisabeth; Criollo, Alfredo; Megalou, Evgenia; Weiskopf, Daniela; Laun, Peter; Heeren, Gino; Breitenbach, Michael; Grubeck-Loebenstein, Beatrix; Herker, Eva; Fahrenkrog, Birthe; Fröhlich, Kai-Uwe; Sinner, Frank; Tavernarakis, Nektarios; Minois, Nadege; Kroemer, Guido; Madeo, Frank

    2009-11-01

    Ageing results from complex genetically and epigenetically programmed processes that are elicited in part by noxious or stressful events that cause programmed cell death. Here, we report that administration of spermidine, a natural polyamine whose intracellular concentration declines during human ageing, markedly extended the lifespan of yeast, flies and worms, and human immune cells. In addition, spermidine administration potently inhibited oxidative stress in ageing mice. In ageing yeast, spermidine treatment triggered epigenetic deacetylation of histone H3 through inhibition of histone acetyltransferases (HAT), suppressing oxidative stress and necrosis. Conversely, depletion of endogenous polyamines led to hyperacetylation, generation of reactive oxygen species, early necrotic death and decreased lifespan. The altered acetylation status of the chromatin led to significant upregulation of various autophagy-related transcripts, triggering autophagy in yeast, flies, worms and human cells. Finally, we found that enhanced autophagy is crucial for polyamine-induced suppression of necrosis and enhanced longevity.

  4. Clandestine Transmissions and Operations of Embedded Software on Cellular Mobile Devices

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2011-09-01

    Register EMS Enhanced Message Service FDMA Frequency Division Multiple Access GMT Greenwich Mean Time GMSC Gateway Mobile Switching Center...Message Switching Center SMS-IWMSC SMS-Interworking Mobile-Service Switching Center TCH Traffic Channels TDMA Time Division Multiple Access TP...assume the user will not attempt to re-program the device. Finally, we assume that the owner and user do not have root access and cannot disable any

  5. Adult Education and Learning in Europe: Evaluation of the Adult Education Action within the SOCRATES Programme. Final Report of the Project "MOPED--Monitoring of Projects: Evaluation as Dialogue."

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Nuissl, Ekkehard, Ed.

    The SOCRATES Program was conducted in 1995-1999 to increase transnational cooperation between institutions in the field of adult education (AE) and thereby enhance the quality of AE in Europe. In 1997, a project called Monitoring of Projects: Evaluation as Dialogue (MOPED) was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of 101 transnational…

  6. Role-playing is an effective instructional strategy for genetic counseling training: an investigation and comparative study.

    PubMed

    Xu, Xiao-Feng; Wang, Yan; Wang, Yan-Yan; Song, Ming; Xiao, Wen-Gang; Bai, Yun

    2016-09-02

    Genetic diseases represent a significant public health challenge in China that will need to be addressed by a correspondingly large number of professional genetic counselors. However, neither an official training program for genetic counseling, nor formal board certification, was available in China before 2015. In 2009, a genetic counseling training program based on role-playing was implemented as a pilot study at the Third Military Medical University to train third-year medical students. Questionnaires on participant attitudes to the program and role-playing were randomly administered to 324 students after they had finished their training. Pre- and post-training instructional tests, focusing on 42 key components of genetic counseling, were administered randomly to 200 participants to assess mastery of each component. Finally, scores in final examinations of 578 participants from 2009 to 2011 were compared to scores obtained by 614 non-participating students from 2006 to 2008 to further assess program efficacy. Both the training program and the instructional strategy of role-playing were accepted by most participants. Students believed that role-playing improved their practice of genetic counseling and medical genetics, enhanced their communication skills, and would likely contribute to future professional performance. The average understanding of 40 of the key points in genetic counseling was significantly improved, and most students approached excellent levels of mastery. Scores in final examinations and the percentages of students scoring above 90 were also significantly elevated. Role-playing is a feasible and effective instructional strategy for training genetic counselors in China as well as in other developing countries.

  7. 77 FR 4087 - Nutrition Standards in the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-01-26

    ...This final rule updates the meal patterns and nutrition standards for the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs to align them with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. This rule requires most schools to increase the availability of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fat-free and low-fat fluid milk in school meals; reduce the levels of sodium, saturated fat and trans fat in meals; and meet the nutrition needs of school children within their calorie requirements. These improvements to the school meal programs, largely based on recommendations made by the Institute of Medicine of the National Academies, are expected to enhance the diet and health of school children, and help mitigate the childhood obesity trend.

  8. Synergies between Communicable and Noncommunicable Disease Programs to Enhance Global Health Security

    PubMed Central

    Husain, Muhammad J.; Sugerman, David; Hong, Yuling; Saraiya, Mona; Keltz, Jennifer; Asma, Samira

    2017-01-01

    Noncommunicable diseases are the leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Initiatives that advance the prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases support the goals of global health security in several ways. First, in addressing health needs that typically require long-term care, these programs can strengthen health delivery and health monitoring systems, which can serve as necessary platforms for emergency preparedness in low-resource environments. Second, by improving population health, the programs might help to reduce susceptibility to infectious outbreaks. Finally, in aiming to reduce the economic burden associated with premature illness and death from noncommunicable diseases, these initiatives contribute to the objectives of international development, thereby helping to improve overall country capacity for emergency response. PMID:29155655

  9. Synergies between Communicable and Noncommunicable Disease Programs to Enhance Global Health Security.

    PubMed

    Kostova, Deliana; Husain, Muhammad J; Sugerman, David; Hong, Yuling; Saraiya, Mona; Keltz, Jennifer; Asma, Samira

    2017-12-01

    Noncommunicable diseases are the leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Initiatives that advance the prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases support the goals of global health security in several ways. First, in addressing health needs that typically require long-term care, these programs can strengthen health delivery and health monitoring systems, which can serve as necessary platforms for emergency preparedness in low-resource environments. Second, by improving population health, the programs might help to reduce susceptibility to infectious outbreaks. Finally, in aiming to reduce the economic burden associated with premature illness and death from noncommunicable diseases, these initiatives contribute to the objectives of international development, thereby helping to improve overall country capacity for emergency response.

  10. MSFC Skylab ground-based astronomy program

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Duncan, B. J.

    1974-01-01

    The Skylab Ground-Based Astronomy Program (SGAP) was conducted to enhance the data base of solar physics obtained during the Apollo Telescope Mount (ATM) mission flown in conjunction with the Skylab orbital station. Leading solar physicists from various observatories obtained data from the ground at the same time that orbital data were being acquired by ATM. The acquisition of corollary solar data from the ground simultaneously with the ATM orbital observations helped to provide a broader basis for understanding solar physics by increasing spectral coverage and by the use of additional sophisticated instruments of various types. This report briefly describes the individual tasks and the associated instrumentation selected for this ground-based program and contains as appendices, the final reports from the Principal Investigators.

  11. Guidebook for preparation of aircraft-system survivability requirements for procurement documents. Final report, October 1975-October 1976

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

    Morrow, J.J.; Burris, R.A.; Watson, D.J.

    1977-05-01

    This report is intended to provide guidelines for the preparation of procurements specifications for aircraft survivability enhancement equipment, for the survivability/vulnerability (S/V) tasks associated with the procurement of a total aircraft system or its relate subsystems, and also for the modification of current fleet aircraft to their related subsystems. It is intended that these S/V procurement guidelines be applied to the procurement of all military aircraft, aircraft subsystems, and aircraft componenets which can either lose their functional capability of have their performance degraded as a result of interactions with the damage mechanisms of threat weapons. The guidelines should be appliedmore » to preliminary design programs, to production programs, and to programs that will retrofit or modify existing systems. These guidelines include general requirements statements for the establishment of an S/V program, requirements statements for reducing the susceptibility of the system to the threat weapons, and requirements for the reduction of vulnerability to nonnuclear, nuclear, and laser weapon effects. Requirements for S/V assessments and the verification of vulnerability levels and survival enhancement features are also included. Although nuclear and laser weapon effects are included, the major emphasis is on the reduction of susceptibility and vulnerability to conventional weapons and the establishment of the S/V program.« less

  12. UC Berkeley Nuclear Engineering Curriculum and Research Enhancement. Final report, February 14, 1993--February 14, 1995

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

    Fowler, T.K.; Peterson, P.F.

    1995-05-11

    This is a report for the 2/14/93 to 2/14/95 period of the five-year program proposed and initiated in 1992, for curriculum and research enhancement for the Department of Nuclear Engineering at the University of California, Berkeley. The program is designed to strengthen the departmental academic infrastructure and improve the education breadth of nuclear engineering students. The DOE funds have supported scholarships and a novel educational program which includes summer coursework at the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant. The summer course provides an important introduction to reactor safety and operations to students who will in the future be responsible for runningmore » many of our existing nuclear power plants. The work was funded under DOE contract DE-FG0393ER75856, with a matching gift to the Department from the Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E). The program described in the original grant proposal has been successful implemented with an enthusiastic response from our students and faculty. The program consisted of two parts, one for innovative additions to our curriculum funded by the DOE, and the other for distinguished lectureships and support for basic research funded by gifts from PG&E.« less

  13. A systematic review of online learning programs for nurse preceptors.

    PubMed

    Wu, Xi Vivien; Chan, Yah Shih; Tan, Kimberlyn Hui Shing; Wang, Wenru

    2018-01-01

    Nurse preceptors guide students to integrate theory into practice, teach clinical skills, assess clinical competency, and enhance problem solving skills. Managing the dual roles of a registered nurse and preceptor poses tremendous challenges to many preceptors. Online learning is recognized as an effective learning approach for enhancing nursing knowledge and skills. The systematic review aims to review and synthesise the online learning programs for preceptors. A systematic review was designed based on the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Programs. Articles published between January 2000 and June 2016 were sought from six electronic databases: CINAHL, Medline OVID, PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, and Web of Science. All papers were reviewed and quality assessment was performed. Nine studies were finally selected. Data were extracted, organized and analysed using a narrative synthesis. The review identified five overarching themes: development of the online learning programs for nurse preceptors, major contents of the programs, uniqueness of each program, modes of delivery, and outcomes of the programs. The systematic review provides insightful information on educational programs for preceptors. At this information age, online learning offers accessibility, convenience, flexibility, which could of great advantage for the working adults. In addition, the online platform provides an alternative for preceptors who face challenges of workload, time, and support system. Therefore, it is paramount that continuing education courses need to be integrated with technology, increase the flexibility and responsiveness of the nursing workforce, and offer alternative means to take up courses. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  14. Development of Medical Technology for Contingency Response to Marrow Toxic Agents

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2014-05-06

    Development of Medical Technology for Contingency Response to Marrow Toxic Agents - Final Performance/Technical Report for January 01, 2011 to...Enhancing HLA Data for Selected Donors 44 IIB.1.6 Maintain a Quality Control Program 44 IIB.2.1 Collection of Primary Data 45 IIB.2.2 Validation of...Receptor Donor Selection KORI Korean LD Linkage Disequilibrium LTA Lymphotoxin Alpha MALDI-TOF Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization – Time Of

  15. Department of Defense’s Waiver of Competitive Prototyping Requirement for Enhanced Polar System Program

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2012-08-23

    objectives. Finally, the CAPS acquisition strategy anticipates the use of a cost- reimbursement contract for designing and building the system...The CAPS acquisition strategy anticipates the use of a cost- reimbursement contract for designing and building the system; however, it may be... reimbursement contract was chosen for the basic CAPS contract because of the nature of the design work, which includes software design and development

  16. Family Violence Prevention and Services Programs. Final rule.

    PubMed

    2016-11-02

    This rule will better prevent and protect survivors of family violence, domestic violence, and dating violence, by clarifying that all survivors must have access to services and programs funded under the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act. More specifically, the rule enhances accessibility and non-discrimination provisions, clarifies confidentiality rules, promotes coordination among community-based organizations, State Domestic Violence Coalitions, States, and Tribes, as well as incorporates new discretionary grant programs. Furthermore, the rule updates existing regulations to reflect statutory changes made to the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act, and updates procedures for soliciting and awarding grants. The rule also increases clarity and reduces potential confusion over statutory and regulatory standards. The rule codifies standards already used by the program in the Funding Opportunity Announcements and awards, in technical assistance, in reporting requirements, and in sub-regulatory guidance.

  17. Incorporating Geographic Information Science in the BSc Environ-mental Science Program in Botswana

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Akinyemi, Felicia O.

    2018-05-01

    Critical human capacity in Geographic Information Science (GISc) is developed at the Botswana International University of Science and Technology, a specialized, research university. Strategies employed include GISc courses offered each semester to students from various programs, the conduct of field-based projects, enrolment in online courses, geo-spatial initiatives with external partners, and final year research projects utilizing geospatial technologies. A review is made of available GISc courses embedded in the Bachelor of Science Environmental Science program. GISc courses are incorporated in three Bachelor degree programs as distinct courses. Geospatial technologies are employed in several other courses. Student researches apply GIS and Remote Sensing methods to environmental and geological themes. The overarching goals are to equip students in various disciplines to utilize geospatial technologies, and enhance their spatial thinking and reasoning skills.

  18. High Resolution Sub-MM Fiberoptic Endoscope Final Report CRADA No. TSB-1447-97

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

    Stone, Gary F.; Smith, John

    2018-01-22

    At the time of the CRADA, LLNL needed to develop a sub-mm outer diameter fiberoptic endoscope with 25pm or better resolution at 3-lOmm working distance to support the Enhanced Surveillance Program (ESP) and the Core Surveillance Program for DOE. The commercially available systems did not meet the image resolution requirements and development work was needed to reach three goals. We also needed to perform preliminary investigations into the production of such an endoscope with a steerable-articulated distal end. The goal of such an endoscope was to allow for a 45 degree inspection cone including the lens field of view.

  19. NBSGSC - a FORTRAN program for quantitative x-ray fluorescence analysis. Technical note (final)

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

    Tao, G.Y.; Pella, P.A.; Rousseau, R.M.

    1985-04-01

    A FORTRAN program (NBSGSC) was developed for performing quantitative analysis of bulk specimens by x-ray fluorescence spectrometry. This program corrects for x-ray absorption/enhancement phenomena using the comprehensive alpha coefficient algorithm proposed by Lachance (COLA). NBSGSC is a revision of the program ALPHA and CARECAL originally developed by R.M. Rousseau of the Geological Survey of Canada. Part one of the program (CALCO) performs the calculation of theoretical alpha coefficients, and part two (CALCOMP) computes the composition of the analyte specimens. The analysis of alloys, pressed minerals, and fused specimens can currently be treated by the program. In addition to using measuredmore » x-ray tube spectral distributions, spectra from seven commonly used x-ray tube targets could also be calculated with an NBS algorithm included in the program. NBSGSC is written in FORTRAN IV for a Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC PDP-11/23) minicomputer using RLO2 firm disks and an RSX 11M operating system.« less

  20. Measuring User Compliance and Cost Effectiveness of Safe Drinking Water Programs: A Cluster-Randomized Study of Household Ultraviolet Disinfection in Rural Mexico.

    PubMed

    Reygadas, Fermín; Gruber, Joshua S; Dreizler, Lindsay; Nelson, Kara L; Ray, Isha

    2018-03-01

    Low adoption and compliance levels for household water treatment and safe storage (HWTS) technologies have made it challenging for these systems to achieve measurable health benefits in the developing world. User compliance remains an inconsistently defined and poorly understood feature of HWTS programs. In this article, we develop a comprehensive approach to understanding HWTS compliance. First, our Safe Drinking Water Compliance Framework disaggregates and measures the components of compliance from initial adoption of the HWTS to exclusive consumption of treated water. We apply this framework to an ultraviolet (UV)-based safe water system in a cluster-randomized controlled trial in rural Mexico. Second, we evaluate a no-frills (or "Basic") variant of the program as well as an improved (or "Enhanced") variant, to test if subtle changes in the user interface of HWTS programs could improve compliance. Finally, we perform a full-cost analysis of both variants to assess their cost effectiveness (CE) in achieving compliance. We define "compliance" strictly as the habit of consuming safe water. We find that compliance was significantly higher in the groups where the UV program variants were rolled out than in the control groups. The Enhanced variant performed better immediately postintervention than the Basic, but compliance (and thus CE) degraded with time such that no effective difference remained between the two versions of the program.

  1. Partnerships for building strong internship and research experiences for undergraduates

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Goehring, L.; Haacker-Santos, R.; Dutilly, E.

    2013-12-01

    REU and internship site directors often operate in geographic and institutional isolation from each other, unable to share best practices or resources. When collaboration is possible, benefits for both the students and leaders of these programs can be achieved. In 2013, the SOARS REU program, hosted at the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR), supported the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) in creating a new internship program aimed at engaging undergraduate science and engineering students in NEON's work. Both student programs share the objective of reaching underrepresented groups in STEM. The year long collaboration allowed NEON to learn best practices in recruitment and support of students, mentor training, and program development, and to customize its internship according to its organization i.e., a science/engineering observatory under construction. Both programs shared several elements: students were housed together so that interns could tap into a larger cohort of supportive peers; students participated in a joint leadership training to strengthen cross program mentoring; and students met weekly for a scientific communications workshop. Having multiple science disciplines represented enhanced the workshop as students learned about writing styles and cultures of each other's fields, fostering an appreciation of different scientific disciplines and interdisciplinary thinking. Finally, at the end of the summer, students presented their findings in a joint poster session. We found that collaboration between programs led to increased recruitment of students from diverse backgrounds and support of students through stronger cohorts, shared trainings, and enhanced program content. In this presentation we share findings of our programs' evaluations and make recommendations on building collaborative partnerships for internships and research experiences for undergraduates.

  2. Measuring conflict management, emotional self-efficacy, and problem solving confidence in an evaluation of outdoor programs for inner-city youth in Baltimore, Maryland.

    PubMed

    Caldas, Stephanie V; Broaddus, Elena T; Winch, Peter J

    2016-08-01

    Substantial evidence supports the value of outdoor education programs for promoting healthy adolescent development, yet measurement of program outcomes often lacks rigor. Accurately assessing the impacts of programs that seek to promote positive youth development is critical for determining whether youth are benefitting as intended, identifying best practices and areas for improvement, and informing decisions about which programs to invest in. We generated brief, customized instruments for measuring three outcomes among youth participants in Baltimore City Outward Bound programs: conflict management, emotional self-efficacy, and problem solving confidence. Measures were validated through exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses of pilot-testing data from two groups of program participants. We describe our process of identifying outcomes for measurement, developing and adapting measurement instruments, and validating these instruments. The finalized measures support evaluations of outdoor education programs serving urban adolescent youth. Such evaluations enhance accountability by determining if youth are benefiting from programs as intended, and strengthen the case for investment in programs with demonstrated success. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  3. Lower Clearwater Aquatic Mammal Survey. Final Report.

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

    Mack, Curt; Kronemann, Loren A.; Eneas, Cheryl

    BPA provided funding to collect baseline data on river otters to assist in developing mitigation implementation plans for river otters percent to the Northwest Power Planning Council's Columbia River Basin Fish and Wildlife Program, sections 1003 (b)(2) and (3). Distribution, movements, habitat use, and diets of river otters were investigated in the Clearwater River within the Nez Perce Indian Reservation from 1991-1992. The study outlined recommendations to guide development of mitigation implementation plans for riparian habitats. Sections of the Clearwater River were identified that if protected or enhanced would provide optimal benefit to otters. Habitat improvement alternatives were also outlinedmore » which could be used to enhance otter habitats.« less

  4. Developing PhD Nurse Scientists: Do Bachelor of Science in Nursing Honors Programs Help?

    PubMed

    Neuberger, Geri B

    2016-10-01

    The critical need for more nurses with research doctoral degrees to replace vacancies among retiring nursing faculty and nurse administrators is identified. The Future of Nursing report recommends that the number of nurses with PhD degrees double by 2020. Encouraging nursing students to begin doctoral education early in their careers is essential to meeting this goal now and in the future. One method to promote early enrollment into doctoral education is participation in a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) honors program. We describe the recruitment and application process, mentor selection, scholarly activities, and publication of final manuscripts for one such program. The success of one BSN honors program in enabling graduation with university honors and encouraging enrollment and graduation with doctoral degrees is described. The development of more BSN Honors programs and enhancement of activities of current programs are recommended. [J Nurs Educ. 2016;55(10):579-582.]. Copyright 2016, SLACK Incorporated.

  5. Blended Learning Ecologies in the Military: Comparative Studies for CombatMedics and Their Instructors

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2011-10-01

    submitted for publication. Blended learning ecology, combat lifesaver skills, eLearning , instructional design, program of instruction 172 bea.babbitt...making use of PRDs would improve student learning and satisfaction in CLS training. Two eLearning Modules or “eModules” were developed in this project to...Enhanced Lecture PowerPoint (Final Version) with CPS Integration [See Appendix C] • eModules [See Appendix D] Developed and published two eLearning

  6. 1991 LLWAS Anemometer Test Program.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1992-09-01

    the enhanced LLWAS system installed there detected a violent microburst and prevented the loss of a Continental flight on final approach . Because of... balance of the heat provided by eight radiant heaters located on a one-foot diameter around the metal cup and vane assembly. HYDRO-TECH MODEL WS-3, WD...first chamber test, the Qualimetrics sensor had been modified with the addition of a 40- or 50-watt heater to the rain hood of the sensor. This heat

  7. Perspectives on the Use of Clinical Pathways in Oncology Care.

    PubMed

    Chiang, Anne C; Ellis, Peter; Zon, Robin

    2017-01-01

    Pathways and guidelines are valuable tools to provide evidence-based care in oncology. Pathways may be more restrictive than guidelines because they attempt (where possible) to reduce cost, add efficiency, and remove unwarranted variability. Pathways offer an opportunity to measure, report, and improve quality of care; they can drive to evidence-based targeted therapy where appropriate; they can enhance efficiency through standardization; and, finally, they can be a vehicle to enhance participation in clinical trials. Pathway implementation requires understanding and commitment on the part of the physician and leadership as they may initially disrupt workflow, but ultimately have the ability to enhance patient care. ASCO criteria have been published for the development and implementation of high-quality oncology pathway programs. Future challenges for pathways include incorporation of molecular testing and appropriate targeted care in a real-time precision oncology approach.

  8. Advanced Air Transportation Technologies Project, Final Document Collection

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Mogford, Richard H.; Wold, Sheryl (Editor)

    2008-01-01

    This CD ROM contains a compilation of the final documents of the Advanced Air Transportation Technologies (AAIT) project, which was an eight-year (1996 to 2004), $400M project managed by the Airspace Systems Program office, which was part of the Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters. AAIT focused on developing advanced automation tools and air traffic management concepts that would help improve the efficiency of the National Airspace System, while maintaining or enhancing safety. The documents contained in the CD are final reports on AAIT tasks that serve to document the project's accomplishments over its eight-year term. Documents include information on: Advanced Air Transportation Technologies, Autonomous Operations Planner, Collaborative Arrival Planner, Distributed Air/Ground Traffic Management Concept Elements 5, 6, & 11, Direct-To, Direct-To Technology Transfer, Expedite Departure Path, En Route Data Exchange, Final Approach Spacing Tool - (Active and Passive), Multi-Center Traffic Management Advisor, Multi Center Traffic Management Advisor Technology Transfer, Surface Movement Advisor, Surface Management System, Surface Management System Technology Transfer and Traffic Flow Management Research & Development.

  9. High Burnup Effects Program

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

    Barner, J.O.; Cunningham, M.E.; Freshley, M.D.

    1990-04-01

    This is the final report of the High Burnup Effects Program (HBEP). It has been prepared to present a summary, with conclusions, of the HBEP. The HBEP was an international, group-sponsored research program managed by Battelle, Pacific Northwest Laboratories (BNW). The principal objective of the HBEP was to obtain well-characterized data related to fission gas release (FGR) for light water reactor (LWR) fuel irradiated to high burnup levels. The HBEP was organized into three tasks as follows: Task 1 -- high burnup effects evaluations; Task 2 -- fission gas sampling; and Task 3 -- parameter effects study. During the coursemore » of the HBEP, a program that extended over 10 years, 82 fuel rods from a variety of sources were characterized, irradiated, and then examined in detail after irradiation. The study of fission gas release at high burnup levels was the principal objective of the program and it may be concluded that no significant enhancement of fission gas release at high burnup levels was observed for the examined rods. The rim effect, an as yet unquantified contributor to athermal fission gas release, was concluded to be the one truly high-burnup effect. Though burnup enhancement of fission gas release was observed to be low, a full understanding of the rim region and rim effect has not yet emerged and this may be a potential area of further research. 25 refs., 23 figs., 4 tabs.« less

  10. Health information technology: initial set of standards, implementation specifications, and certification criteria for electronic health record technology. Interim final rule.

    PubMed

    2010-01-13

    The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is issuing this interim final rule with a request for comments to adopt an initial set of standards, implementation specifications, and certification criteria, as required by section 3004(b)(1) of the Public Health Service Act. This interim final rule represents the first step in an incremental approach to adopting standards, implementation specifications, and certification criteria to enhance the interoperability, functionality, utility, and security of health information technology and to support its meaningful use. The certification criteria adopted in this initial set establish the capabilities and related standards that certified electronic health record (EHR) technology will need to include in order to, at a minimum, support the achievement of the proposed meaningful use Stage 1 (beginning in 2011) by eligible professionals and eligible hospitals under the Medicare and Medicaid EHR Incentive Programs.

  11. SisterTalk: final results of a culturally tailored cable television delivered weight control program for Black women.

    PubMed

    Risica, Patricia Markham; Gans, Kim M; Kumanyika, Shiriki; Kirtania, Usree; Lasater, Thomas M

    2013-12-27

    Obesity among Black women continues to exceed that of other women. Most weight loss programs created without reference to specific cultural contexts are less effective for Black than White women. Weight control approaches accessible to Black women and adapted to relevant cultural contexts are important for addressing this problem. This paper reports the final results of SisterTalk, the randomized controlled trial of a cable TV weight control program oriented toward Black women. A five group design included a comparison group and a 2 × 2 factorial comparison of a) interactive vs. passive programming and b) telephone social support vs no telephone support, with 12 weekly initial cable TV programs followed by 4 monthly booster videos. At baseline, 3, 8, and 12 months post randomization, telephone and in person surveys were administered on diet, physical activity, and physical measurements of height and weight were taken to calculate body mass index (BMI). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to examine differences over time, and between treatment and comparison groups. Dose variables reflecting use of the TV/video and written materials were also assessed. At 3 months, BMI, weight, and dietary fat were significantly lower and physical activity significantly higher among women exposed to the Cable TV intervention compared to the wait-list comparison group. Significant dietary fat differences were still observed at 8 and 12 month evaluations, but not BMI or physical activity differences. Main effects were not observed for interactive programming or enhanced social support at any time point. Within the intervention group, higher watching of the TV series and higher reading of educational materials were both (separately) associated with significantly lower dietary fat. Cable TV was an effective delivery channel to assist Black women with weight control, increasing physical activity and decreasing dietary fat during an initial intervention period, but only dietary changes persisted Enhanced social support and the ability to interact with others during the show were not effective complementary intervention components as conducted in this trial. Future research to strengthen the ability of this approach to achieve long term effects may offer even more promising outcomes.

  12. Tablet computer enhanced training improves internal medicine exam performance.

    PubMed

    Baumgart, Daniel C; Wende, Ilja; Grittner, Ulrike

    2017-01-01

    Traditional teaching concepts in medical education do not take full advantage of current information technology. We aimed to objectively determine the impact of Tablet PC enhanced training on learning experience and MKSAP® (medical knowledge self-assessment program) exam performance. In this single center, prospective, controlled study final year medical students and medical residents doing an inpatient service rotation were alternatingly assigned to either the active test (Tablet PC with custom multimedia education software package) or traditional education (control) group, respectively. All completed an extensive questionnaire to collect their socio-demographic data, evaluate educational status, computer affinity and skills, problem solving, eLearning knowledge and self-rated medical knowledge. Both groups were MKSAP® tested at the beginning and the end of their rotation. The MKSAP® score at the final exam was the primary endpoint. Data of 55 (tablet n = 24, controls n = 31) male 36.4%, median age 28 years, 65.5% students, were evaluable. The mean MKSAP® score improved in the tablet PC (score Δ + 8 SD: 11), but not the control group (score Δ- 7, SD: 11), respectively. After adjustment for baseline score and confounders the Tablet PC group showed on average 11% better MKSAP® test results compared to the control group (p<0.001). The most commonly used resources for medical problem solving were journal articles looked up on PubMed or Google®, and books. Our study provides evidence, that tablet computer based integrated training and clinical practice enhances medical education and exam performance. Larger, multicenter trials are required to independently validate our data. Residency and fellowship directors are encouraged to consider adding portable computer devices, multimedia content and introduce blended learning to their respective training programs.

  13. Tablet computer enhanced training improves internal medicine exam performance

    PubMed Central

    Wende, Ilja; Grittner, Ulrike

    2017-01-01

    Background Traditional teaching concepts in medical education do not take full advantage of current information technology. We aimed to objectively determine the impact of Tablet PC enhanced training on learning experience and MKSAP® (medical knowledge self-assessment program) exam performance. Methods In this single center, prospective, controlled study final year medical students and medical residents doing an inpatient service rotation were alternatingly assigned to either the active test (Tablet PC with custom multimedia education software package) or traditional education (control) group, respectively. All completed an extensive questionnaire to collect their socio-demographic data, evaluate educational status, computer affinity and skills, problem solving, eLearning knowledge and self-rated medical knowledge. Both groups were MKSAP® tested at the beginning and the end of their rotation. The MKSAP® score at the final exam was the primary endpoint. Results Data of 55 (tablet n = 24, controls n = 31) male 36.4%, median age 28 years, 65.5% students, were evaluable. The mean MKSAP® score improved in the tablet PC (score Δ + 8 SD: 11), but not the control group (score Δ- 7, SD: 11), respectively. After adjustment for baseline score and confounders the Tablet PC group showed on average 11% better MKSAP® test results compared to the control group (p<0.001). The most commonly used resources for medical problem solving were journal articles looked up on PubMed or Google®, and books. Conclusions Our study provides evidence, that tablet computer based integrated training and clinical practice enhances medical education and exam performance. Larger, multicenter trials are required to independently validate our data. Residency and fellowship directors are encouraged to consider adding portable computer devices, multimedia content and introduce blended learning to their respective training programs. PMID:28369063

  14. Investigation of Zerodur material processing

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Johnson, R. Barry

    1993-01-01

    The Final Report of the Center for Applied Optics (CAO), of The University of Alabama (UAH) study entitled 'Investigation of Zerodur Material Processing' is presented. The objectives of the effort were to prepare glass samples by cutting, grinding, etching, and polishing block Zerodur to desired specifications using equipment located in the optical shop located in the Optical System Branch at NASA/MSFC; characterize samples for subsurface damage and surface roughness; utilize Zerodur samples for coating investigations; and perform investigations into enhanced optical fabrication and metrology techniques. The results of this investigation will be used to support the Advanced X Ray Astrophysics Facility (AXAF) program as well as other NASA/MSFC research programs. The results of the technical effort are presented and discussed.

  15. Final priority; National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research--Rehabilitation Engineering Research Centers. Final priority.

    PubMed

    2014-06-05

    The Assistant Secretary for Special Education and Rehabilitative Services announces a priority for the Disability and Rehabilitation Research Projects and Centers Program administered by the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR). Specifically, we announce a priority for a Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center (RERC) on Technologies to Enhance Independence in Daily Living for Adults with Cognitive Impairments. The Assistant Secretary may use this priority for competitions in fiscal year (FY) 2014 and later years. We take this action to focus research attention on an area of national need. We intend the priority to contribute to improved outcomes related to independence in daily activities in the home, community, or workplace setting for adults with cognitive impairments.

  16. Quantum-Enhanced Cyber Security: Experimental Computation on Quantum-Encrypted Data

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2017-03-02

    AFRL-AFOSR-UK-TR-2017-0020 Quantum-Enhanced Cyber Security: Experimental Computation on Quantum-Encrypted Data Philip Walther UNIVERSITT WIEN Final...REPORT TYPE Final 3. DATES COVERED (From - To) 15 Oct 2015 to 31 Dec 2016 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE Quantum-Enhanced Cyber Security: Experimental Computation...FORM SF 298 Final Report for FA9550-1-6-1-0004 Quantum-enhanced cyber security: Experimental quantum computation with quantum-encrypted data

  17. BESCT (Biology, Education, Screening, Chemoprevention and Treatment) Program

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2010-10-01

    Final Report: Reporting Period 15 March 2001 – 14 September 2010 19 Sun S Y, S chroeder C P, Y ue P , Lot an D , H ong WK, Lo tan R . Enhanced G...Population Five hundred ninety-five consecutive patients with stage I NSCLC underwent definitive surgical resection, defined as a lo - bectomy or a...activity of lonafarnib in patients who had uro - thelial cancer that was refractory to first-line cytotoxic treat- ment. Lonafarnib 200 mg b.i.d. p.o. was

  18. Using Software Applications to Facilitate and Enhance Strategic Planning

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1993-09-01

    Angeles, CA 90089-0021 213-743-3083 XIA 2.0 Booz-Allen & Hamilton, Inc. 1953 Gallows Road Vienna, VA 11180 703-893-0040 92 REFERENCES Ansoff , H. Igor ...to doing business was invented ( Ansoff 1984). Two examples of business applications of strategy are generic and competitive strategies (Mintzberg 1991...34 ( Ansoff 1984, p. 188) Keller (1990) states the purpose of the PPBS was "to produce a plan, a program, and, finally a budget for the Department of Defense

  19. Flight dynamics research for highly agile aircraft

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Nguyen, Luat T.

    1989-01-01

    This paper highlights recent results of research conducted at the NASA Langley Research Center as part of a broad flight dynamics program aimed at developing technology that will enable future combat aircraft to achieve greatly enhanced agility capability at subsonic combat conditions. Studies of advanced control concepts encompassing both propulsive and aerodynamic approaches are reviewed. Dynamic stall phenomena and their potential impact on maneuvering performance and stability are summarized. Finally, issues of mathematical modeling of complex aerodynamics occurring during rapid, large amplitude maneuvers are discussed.

  20. Persistent influence of a narrative educational program on physician attitudes regarding patient care.

    PubMed

    Stojan, Jennifer N; Sun, Eleanor Y; Kumagai, Arno K

    2018-02-28

    Educational approaches involving patient stories aim at enhancing empathy and patient-centered care; however, it is not known whether the influence of such programs on physician attitudes persists beyond medical school. The Family Centered Experience (FCE) paired preclinical medical students with patient families over two years and engaged students in reflective dialogs about the volunteers' stories. This study examined possible long-term influences on attitudes toward medicine and doctoring. Interviews were conducted with former students at the end of or after post-graduate training. All had completed the FCE between 4 and 10 years before the study. Thematic analysis was informed by a constructivist Grounded Theory approach. Several themes were identified. The FCE made graduates aware of the patients' perspectives and impacted their clinical practice in specific ways, such as developing collaborative partnerships, conducting family meetings, and breaking bad news. The course had influenced career choices and interest in teaching. Finally, the FCE enhanced appreciation of the human dimensions of medicine, which graduates had drawn upon in subsequent years. A program based on longitudinal interactions with individuals with chronic illness can have persistent influence by stimulating reflection on the patient's perspective and humanistic approaches to patient care.

  1. 78 FR 29117 - After Final Consideration Pilot Program 2.0

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-05-17

    ...] After Final Consideration Pilot Program 2.0 AGENCY: United States Patent and Trademark Office, Commerce... Final Consideration Pilot Program (AFCP) to create the After Final Consideration Pilot Program 2.0 (AFCP... without modifications) depending on feedback from the participants and the effectiveness of the pilot...

  2. Final report to DOE: Matching Grant Program for the Penn State University Nuclear Engineering Program

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

    Jack S. Brenizer, Jr.

    2003-01-17

    The DOE/Industry Matching Grant Program is designed to encourage collaborative support for nuclear engineering education as well as research between the nation's nuclear industry and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Despite a serious decline in student enrollments in the 1980s and 1990s, the discipline of nuclear engineering remained important to the advancement of the mission goals of DOE. The program is designed to ensure that academic programs in nuclear engineering are maintained and enhanced in universities throughout the U.S. At Penn State, the Matching Grant Program played a critical role in the survival of the Nuclear Engineering degree programs.more » Funds were used in a variety of ways to support both undergraduate and graduate students directly. Some of these included providing seed funding for new graduate research initiatives, funding the development of new course materials, supporting new teaching facilities, maintenance and purchase of teaching laboratory equipment, and providing undergraduate scholarships, graduate fellowships, and wage payroll positions for students.« less

  3. Video-Enhanced Telemedicine Improves the Care of Acutely Injured Burn Patients in a Rural State.

    PubMed

    Wibbenmeyer, Lucy; Kluesner, Karen; Wu, Hongqian; Eid, Anas; Heard, Jason; Mann, Benjamin; Pauley, Alison; Peek-Asa, Corrine

    The acute care of burn patients is critical and can be a daunting experience for emergency personnel because of the scarcity of burn injuries. Telemedicine that incorporates a visual component can provide immediate expertise in the treatment and management of these injuries. The authors sought to evaluate the addition of video telemedicine to our current telephone burn transfer program. During a 2-year period, 282 patients, 59.4% of all burn patients transferred from outside hospitals, were enrolled in the study. In addition to the scripted call with the charge nurse (ChargeRN) and the accepting physician, nine hospitals also transmitted video images of the wounds before transfer as part of a store and forward telemedicine transfer program (77, 27.6%). The accuracy of burn size estimations (BSA burned) and management changes (fluid requirements, transfer mode, and final disposition) were analyzed between the telephones-only sites (T only) and the video-enhanced sites. Referringstaff participating in video-enhanced telemedicine were sent a Google survey assessing their experience the following day. The referring staff (Referringstaff) was correct in their burn assessment 20% of the time. Video assessment improved the ChargeRN BSA burned and resulted in more accurate fluid resuscitation (P = .030), changes in both transportation mode (P = .042), and disposition decisions (P = .20). The majority of the Referringstaff found that video-enhanced telemedicine helped them communicate with the burn staff more effectively (3.4 ± 0.37, scale 1-4). This study reports the successful implementation of video-enhanced telemedicine pilot project in a rural state. Video-enhanced telemedicine using a store and forward process improved burn size estimation and facilitated management changes. Although not quantitatively assessed, the low cost of the system coupled with the changes in transportation and disposition strongly suggests a decrease in healthcare costs associated with the addition of video to a telephone-only transfer program.

  4. National preceptor development program (PDP) prototype. The third of a 3-part series.

    PubMed

    Cox, Craig D; Mulherin, Katrina; Walter, Sheila

    2018-03-01

    Preceptor development is critical to successful delivery of experiential learning. Although many preceptor development programs exist, a more individualized approach to training is needed. To accomplish this a national preceptor development program should be considered based on the continuing professional development model. A detailed prototype for this program has been described. In this final installment of the series, the twelve evidence-based recommendations from the first installment were utilized to construct a prototype for a preceptor development program. Over a three-month period, investigators experimented with different designs and models before approving the final prototype. The prototype took the form of an electronic learning platform. Several categories were integral to the design and included sections entitled preceptor spotlight, mentorship, global outreach, choose your own adventure, continuing professional development, feedback, virtual online community, highlights/advertisements, what's new, competency assessment, and frequently asked questions. A graphic was developed to depict the process by which a preceptor would navigate through the web-based learning platform. The authors purposefully maintained a creative and unlimited vision for preceptor development. This conceptual model is intended to spark discussion and augment, refine, or develop entirely innovative ideas to meet preceptor needs. Development of a preceptor development platform could foster improved competency performance, enhanced interest in learning, and promote continuing professional development. With a greater focus on experiential education in pharmacy, the need for a national preceptor development resource is only expected to increase. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  5. Fostering internationalization: an American-Danish semester-long undergraduate nursing student exchange program.

    PubMed

    Baernholdt, M; Drake, E; Maron, F; Neymark, K

    2013-06-01

    This paper describes the development, implementation and evaluation of a semester-long exchange program between two Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs in the USA and Denmark. Nurses globally need to provide culturally sensitive care for an ethnically diverse population. Competencies on how to do so should start in basic nursing programs. A useful strategy is through immersion into another culture through an exchange program. Little is known about successful strategies for two-way or 360° exchange programs between schools from different countries. Guided by experiential learning theory, we developed an exchange program with the objective of enhancing nursing students' cultural competence through knowledge building, attitudes and behaviour development. Lessons learned and implications for educational institutions and policy are discussed. In internationalization of nursing education, an awareness of underlying cultural values regarding nursing competence and taking appropriate action are important for success. Other areas for a successful exchange program include matching of courses or content across schools, clear objectives and evaluation plans. Finally, flexibility and open communication are key components when setting up a 360° exchange program. © 2013 The Authors. International Nursing Review © 2013 International Council of Nurses.

  6. Basic life support training into cardiac rehabilitation programs: A chance to give back. A community intervention controlled manikin study.

    PubMed

    González-Salvado, Violeta; Abelairas-Gómez, Cristian; Peña-Gil, Carlos; Neiro-Rey, Carmen; Barcala-Furelos, Roberto; González-Juanatey, José Ramón; Rodríguez-Núñez, Antonio

    2018-03-12

    Early basic life support is crucial to enhance survival from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest but rates remain low, especially in households. High-risk groups' training has been advocated, but the optimal method is unclear. The CArdiac REhabilitation and BAsic life Support (CAREBAS) project aims to compare the effectiveness of two basic life support educational strategies implemented in a cardiac rehabilitation program. A community intervention study including consecutive patients enrolled on an exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation program after acute coronary syndrome or revascularization was conducted. A standard basic life support training (G-Stan) and a novel approach integrating cardiopulmonary resuscitation hands-on rolling refreshers (G-CPR) were randomly assigned to each group and compared. Basic life support performance was assessed by means of simulation at baseline, following brief instruction and after the 2-month program. 114 participants were included and 108 completed the final evaluation (G-Stan:58, G-CPR:50). Basic life support performance was equally poor at baseline and significantly improved following a brief instruction. A better skill retention was found after the 2-month program in G-CPR, significantly superior for safety and sending for an automated external defibrillator. Confidence and self-perceived preparation were also significantly greater in G-CPR after the program. Integrating cardiopulmonary resuscitation hands-on rolling refreshers in the training of an exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation program is feasible and improves patients' skill retention and confidence to perform a basic life support sequence, compared to conventional training. Exporting this formula to other programs may result in increased numbers of trained citizens, enhanced social awareness and bystander resuscitation. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  7. Nanostructured materials: A novel approach to enhanced performance. Final report

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

    Korth, G.E.; Froes, F.H.; Suryanarayana, C.

    Nanostuctured materials are an emerging class of materials that can exhibit physical and mechanical characteristics often exceeding those exhibited by conventional course grained materials. A number of different techniques can be employed to produce these materials. In this program, the synthesis methods were (a) mechanical alloying , (b) physical vapor deposition, and (c) plasma processing. The physical vapor deposition and plasma processing were discontinued after initial testing with subsequent efforts focused on mechanical alloying. The major emphasis of the program was on the synthesis, consolidation, and characterization of nanostructured Al-Fe, Ti-Al, Ti-Al-Nb, and Fe-Al by alloying intermetallics with a viewmore » to increase their ductilities. The major findings of this project are reported.« less

  8. Humanistic psychotherapy research 1990-2015: from methodological innovation to evidence-supported treatment outcomes and beyond.

    PubMed

    Angus, Lynne; Watson, Jeanne Cherry; Elliott, Robert; Schneider, Kirk; Timulak, Ladislav

    2015-01-01

    Over the past 25 years, humanistic psychotherapy (HP) researchers have actively contributed to the development and implementation of innovative practice-informed research measures and coding systems. Qualitative and quantitative research findings, including meta-analyses, support the identification of HP approaches as evidence-based treatments for a variety of psychological conditions. Implications for future psychotherapy research, training, and practice are discussed in terms of addressing the persistent disjunction between significant HP research productivity and relatively low support for HP approaches in university-based clinical training programs, funding agencies, and government-supported clinical guidelines. Finally, specific recommendations are provided to further enhance and expand the impact of HP research for clinical training programs and the development of treatment guidelines.

  9. Human T cells engineered to express a programmed death 1/28 costimulatory retargeting molecule display enhanced antitumor activity.

    PubMed

    Ankri, Chen; Shamalov, Katerina; Horovitz-Fried, Miryam; Mauer, Shmuel; Cohen, Cyrille J

    2013-10-15

    Adoptive transfer of T cells genetically modified to express cancer-specific receptors can mediate impressive tumor regression in terminally ill patients. However, T cell function and persistence over time could be hampered by the activation of inhibitory costimulatory pathways, such as programmed death 1 (PD1)/programmed death ligand 1, leading to T cell exhaustion and providing tumor cells with an escape mechanism from immunosurveillance. In addition, the lack of positive costimulation at the tumor site can further dampen T cell response. Thus, as T cell genetic engineering has become clinically relevant, we aimed at enhancing T cell antitumor activity by genetically diverting T cell-negative costimulatory signals into positive ones using chimeric costimulatory retargeting molecules and which are composed of the PD1 extracellular domain fused to the signaling domains of positive costimulatory molecules such as CD28 and 4-1BB. After characterizing the optimal PD1 chimera, we designed and optimized a tripartite retroviral vector that enables the simultaneous expression of this chimeric molecule in conjunction with a cancer-specific TCR. Human T cells, transduced to express a PD1/28 chimeric molecule, exhibited enhanced cytokine secretion and upregulation of activation markers upon coculture with tumor cells. These engineered cells also proliferated better compared with control cells. Finally, we tested the function of these cells in two xenograft models of human melanoma tumors and show that PD1/28-engineered human T cells demonstrated superior antitumor function. Overall, we propose that engineering T cells with a costimulatory retargeting molecule can enhance their function, which bears important implications for the improvement of T cell immunotherapy.

  10. Reasons for Divorce and Recollections of Premarital Intervention: Implications for Improving Relationship Education

    PubMed Central

    Scott, Shelby B.; Rhoades, Galena K.; Stanley, Scott M.; Allen, Elizabeth S.; Markman, Howard J.

    2014-01-01

    The study presents findings from interviews of 52 divorced individuals who received the Prevention and Relationship Enhancement Program (PREP) while engaged to be married. Using both quantitative and qualitative methods, the study sought to understand participant reasons for divorce (including identification of the “final straw”) in order to understand if the program covered these topics effectively. Participants also provided suggestions based on their premarital education experiences so as to improve future relationship education efforts. The most commonly reported major contributors to divorce were lack of commitment, infidelity, and conflict/arguing. The most common “final straw” reasons were infidelity, domestic violence, and substance use. More participants blamed their partners than blamed themselves for the divorce. Recommendations from participants for the improvement of premarital education included receiving relationship education before making a commitment to marry (when it would be easier to break-up), having support for implementing skills outside of the educational setting, and increasing content about the stages of typical marital development. These results provide new insights into the timing and content of premarital and relationship education. PMID:24818068

  11. Reasons for Divorce and Recollections of Premarital Intervention: Implications for Improving Relationship Education.

    PubMed

    Scott, Shelby B; Rhoades, Galena K; Stanley, Scott M; Allen, Elizabeth S; Markman, Howard J

    2013-06-01

    The study presents findings from interviews of 52 divorced individuals who received the Prevention and Relationship Enhancement Program (PREP) while engaged to be married. Using both quantitative and qualitative methods, the study sought to understand participant reasons for divorce (including identification of the "final straw") in order to understand if the program covered these topics effectively. Participants also provided suggestions based on their premarital education experiences so as to improve future relationship education efforts. The most commonly reported major contributors to divorce were lack of commitment, infidelity, and conflict/arguing. The most common "final straw" reasons were infidelity, domestic violence, and substance use. More participants blamed their partners than blamed themselves for the divorce. Recommendations from participants for the improvement of premarital education included receiving relationship education before making a commitment to marry (when it would be easier to break-up), having support for implementing skills outside of the educational setting, and increasing content about the stages of typical marital development. These results provide new insights into the timing and content of premarital and relationship education.

  12. Catalysis and biocatalysis program

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ingham, J. D.

    1993-01-01

    This final report presents a summary of research activities and accomplishments for the Catalysis and Biocatalysis Program, which was renamed the Biological and Chemical Technologies Research (BCTR) Program, currently of the Advanced Industrial Concepts Division (AICD), Office of Industrial Technologies of the Department of Energy (DOE). The Program was formerly under the Division of Energy Conversion and Utilization Technologies (ECUT) until the DOE reorganization in April, 1990. The goals of the BCTR Program are consistent with the initial ECUT goals, but represent an increased effort toward advances in chemical and biological technology transfer. In addition, the transition reflects a need for the BCTR Program to assume a greater R&D role in chemical catalysis as well as a need to position itself for a more encompassing involvement in a broader range of biological and chemical technology research. The mission of the AICD is to create a balanced Program of high risk, long-term, directed interdisciplinary research and development that will improve energy efficiency and enhance fuel flexibility in the industrial sector. Under AICD, the DOE Catalysis and Biocatalysis Program sponsors research and development in furthering industrial biotechnology applications and promotes the integrated participation of universities, industrial companies, and government research laboratories.

  13. Progress and challenges in bioinformatics approaches for enhancer identification

    PubMed Central

    Kleftogiannis, Dimitrios; Kalnis, Panos

    2016-01-01

    Enhancers are cis-acting DNA elements that play critical roles in distal regulation of gene expression. Identifying enhancers is an important step for understanding distinct gene expression programs that may reflect normal and pathogenic cellular conditions. Experimental identification of enhancers is constrained by the set of conditions used in the experiment. This requires multiple experiments to identify enhancers, as they can be active under specific cellular conditions but not in different cell types/tissues or cellular states. This has opened prospects for computational prediction methods that can be used for high-throughput identification of putative enhancers to complement experimental approaches. Potential functions and properties of predicted enhancers have been catalogued and summarized in several enhancer-oriented databases. Because the current methods for the computational prediction of enhancers produce significantly different enhancer predictions, it will be beneficial for the research community to have an overview of the strategies and solutions developed in this field. In this review, we focus on the identification and analysis of enhancers by bioinformatics approaches. First, we describe a general framework for computational identification of enhancers, present relevant data types and discuss possible computational solutions. Next, we cover over 30 existing computational enhancer identification methods that were developed since 2000. Our review highlights advantages, limitations and potentials, while suggesting pragmatic guidelines for development of more efficient computational enhancer prediction methods. Finally, we discuss challenges and open problems of this topic, which require further consideration. PMID:26634919

  14. Infrastructure support for a waste management institute. Final project report, September 12, 1994--September 11, 1997

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

    NONE

    1997-11-01

    North Carolina A and T State University has completed the development of an infrastructure for the interdisciplinary Waste Management Institute (WMI). The Interdisciplinary Waste Management Institute (WMI) was approved in June, 1994 by the General Administration of the University of North Carolina as an academic support unit with research and public service functions. The mission of the WMI is to enhance awareness and understanding of waste management issues and to provide instructional support including research and outreach. The goals of WMI are as follows: increase the number of minority professionals who will work in waste management fields; develop cooperative andmore » exchange programs involving faculty, students, government, and industry; serve as institutional sponsor of public awareness workshops and lecture series; and support interdisciplinary research programs. The vision of the WMI is to provide continued state-of-the art environmental educational programs, research, and outreach.« less

  15. EPRI Guide to Managing Nuclear Utility Protective Clothing Programs. PCEVAL User`s Manual, A computer code for evaluating the economics of nuclear plant protective clothing programs: Final report

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

    Kelly, J.J.; Kelly, D.M.

    1993-10-01

    The Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) commissioned a radioactive waste related project (RP2414-34) in 1989 to produce a guide for developing and managing nuclear plant protective clothing programs. Every nuclear facility must coordinate some type of protective clothing program for its radiation workers to ensure proper and safe protection for the wearer and to maintain control over the spread of contamination. Yet, every nuclear facility has developed its own unique program for managing such clothing. Accordingly, a need existed for a reference guide to assist with standardizing protective clothing programs and in controlling the potentially escalating economics of such programs.more » The initial Guide to Managing Nuclear Utility Protective Clothing Programs, NP-7309, was published in May 1991. Since that time, a number of utilities have reviewed and/or used the report to enhance their protective clothing programs. Some of these utilities requested that a computer program be developed to assist utilities in evaluating the economics of protective clothing programs consistent with the guidance in NP-7309. The PCEVAL computer code responds to that industry need. This report, the PCEVAL User`s Manual, provides detailed instruction on use of the software.« less

  16. Learning directed acyclic graphs from large-scale genomics data.

    PubMed

    Nikolay, Fabio; Pesavento, Marius; Kritikos, George; Typas, Nassos

    2017-09-20

    In this paper, we consider the problem of learning the genetic interaction map, i.e., the topology of a directed acyclic graph (DAG) of genetic interactions from noisy double-knockout (DK) data. Based on a set of well-established biological interaction models, we detect and classify the interactions between genes. We propose a novel linear integer optimization program called the Genetic-Interactions-Detector (GENIE) to identify the complex biological dependencies among genes and to compute the DAG topology that matches the DK measurements best. Furthermore, we extend the GENIE program by incorporating genetic interaction profile (GI-profile) data to further enhance the detection performance. In addition, we propose a sequential scalability technique for large sets of genes under study, in order to provide statistically significant results for real measurement data. Finally, we show via numeric simulations that the GENIE program and the GI-profile data extended GENIE (GI-GENIE) program clearly outperform the conventional techniques and present real data results for our proposed sequential scalability technique.

  17. 78 FR 79613 - Final Requirement-Migrant Education Program Consortium Incentive Grant Program

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-12-31

    ... DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION 34 CFR Chapter II [CFDA Number 84.144F] Final Requirement--Migrant Education Program Consortium Incentive Grant Program AGENCY: Office of Elementary and Secondary Education, Department of Education. ACTION: Final requirement. SUMMARY: The Assistant Secretary for Elementary and...

  18. Parallelization and Visual Analysis of Multidimensional Fields: Application to Ozone Production, Destruction, and Transport in Three Dimensions

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Schwan, Karsten

    1997-01-01

    This final report has four sections. We first describe the actual scientific results attained by our research team, followed by a description of the high performance computing research enhancing those results and prompted by the scientific tasks being undertaken. Next, we describe our research in data and program visualization motivated by the scientific research and also enabling it. Last, we comment on the indirect effects this research effort has had on our work, in terms of follow up or additional funding, student training, etc.

  19. Census data quality--a user's view.

    PubMed

    Hawkes, W J

    1986-01-01

    "This paper presents the perspective of a major user of both decennial and economic [U.S.] census data. It illustrates how these data are used as a framework for commercial marketing research surveys that measure television audiences and sales of consumer goods through retail stores, drawing on Nielsen's own experience in data collection and evaluation. It reviews Nielsen's analyses of census data quality based, in part, on actual field evaluation of census results. Finally, it suggests ways that data quality might be evaluated and improved to enhance the usefulness of these census programs." excerpt

  20. 7 CFR 1467.9 - Wetlands Reserve Enhancement Program.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 10 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Wetlands Reserve Enhancement Program. 1467.9 Section... CORPORATION, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE LOANS, PURCHASES, AND OTHER OPERATIONS WETLANDS RESERVE PROGRAM § 1467.9 Wetlands Reserve Enhancement Program. (a) Wetlands Reserve Enhancement Program (WREP). (1) The...

  1. Langley Aerothermodynamic Facilities Complex: Enhancements and Testing Capabilities

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Micol, J. R.

    1998-01-01

    Description, capabilities, recent upgrades, and utilization of the NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC) Aerothermodynamic Facilities Complex (AFC) are presented. The AFC consists of five hypersonic, blow-down-to-vacuum wind tunnels that collectively provide a range of Mach number from 6 to 20, unit Reynolds number from 0.04 to 22 million per foot and, most importantly for blunt configurations, normal shock density ratio from 4 to 12. These wide ranges of hypersonic simulation parameters are due, in part, to the use of three different test gases (air, helium, and tetrafluoromethane), thereby making several of the facilities unique. The Complex represents nearly three-fourths of the conventional (as opposed to impulse)-type hypersonic wind tunnels operational in this country. AFC facilities are used to assess and optimize the hypersonic aerodynamic performance and aeroheating characteristics of aerospace vehicle concepts and to provide benchmark aerodynamic/aeroheating data fr generating the flight aerodynamic databook and final design of the thermal protection system (TPS) (e.g., establishment of flight limitations not to exceed TPS design limits). Modifications and enhancements of AFC hardware components and instrumentation have been pursued to increase capability, reliability, and productivity in support of programmatic goals. Examples illustrating facility utilization in recent years to generate essentially all of the experimental hypersonic aerodynamic and aeroheating information for high-priority, fast-paced Agency programs are presented. These programs include Phase I of the Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) Advanced Technology Demonstrator, X-33 program, PHase II of the X-33 program, X-34 program, the Hyper-X program ( a Mach 5,7, and 10 airbreathing propulsion flight experiment), and the X-38 program (Experimental Crew Return Vehicle, X-CRV). Current upgrades/enchancements and future plans for the AFC are discussed.

  2. 77 FR 69788 - Colorado: Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program Revisions

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-11-21

    ...: Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program Revisions AGENCY: Environmental... authorization of changes to its hazardous waste program under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). The EPA proposes to grant final authorization to the hazardous waste program changes submitted by the...

  3. A Data Analysis Center for Electromagnetic and Hadronic Interaction. Products of the DAC members

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

    Briscoe, William John; Strakovsky, Igor I.; Workman, Ronald L.

    The Data Analysis Center (DAC) of the Center for Nuclear Studies (CNS) at the George Washington University (GW) has made significant progress in its program to enhance and expand the partial-wave (and multipole) analyses of fundamental two- and three-body reactions (such as pion-nucleon, photon-nucleon, and nucleon-nucleon scattering) by maintaining and augmenting the analysis codes and databases associated with these reactions. These efforts provide guidance to experimental groups at the international level, forming an important link between theory and experiment. A renaissance in light hadron spectroscopy is underway as a continuous stream of polarization data issues from existing precision electromagnetic facilitiesmore » and the coming Jefferson Lab 12 GeV Upgrade. Our principal goals have been focused on supporting the national N* resonance physics program. We have also continued to study topics more generally related to the problems associated with partial-wave analysis. On the Experimental side of the CNS DAC. Its primary goal is the enhancement of the body of data necessary for our analyses of fundamental γ - N reactions. We perform experiments that study the dynamics responsible for the internal structure of the nucleon and its excitations. Our principal focus is on the N* programs at JLab and MAMI. At JLab we study spin-polarization observables using polarized photons, protons and neutrons and yielding charged final states. Similarly at MAMI we study neutral meson photoproduction off polarized protons and neutrons. We use the Crystal Ball and TAPS spectrometers (CBT) to detect photons and neutrons to measure the photoproduction of π0, η, 2π0, π0η, and K0 off the neutron. The CBT program complements our program at JLab, which studies reactions resulting in charged final states. We are also involved in a renewed effort to make neutral pion photoproduction measurements close to threshold at Mainz. In addition to the programs underway, we are contributing to the future by participation in preparations for the coming JLab 12 GeV Upgrade. GW students are involved in tests of the detectors proposed to be used with CLAS12, i.e., for the CentralTime-of-Flight Barrel (CTOF). WJB is heavily involved in the MUSE quest at PSI to solve the Proton Radius Puzzle.« less

  4. SisterTalk: final results of a culturally tailored cable television delivered weight control program for Black women

    PubMed Central

    2013-01-01

    Background Obesity among Black women continues to exceed that of other women. Most weight loss programs created without reference to specific cultural contexts are less effective for Black than White women. Weight control approaches accessible to Black women and adapted to relevant cultural contexts are important for addressing this problem. This paper reports the final results of SisterTalk, the randomized controlled trial of a cable TV weight control program oriented toward Black women. Methods A five group design included a comparison group and a 2 × 2 factorial comparison of a) interactive vs. passive programming and b) telephone social support vs no telephone support, with 12 weekly initial cable TV programs followed by 4 monthly booster videos. At baseline, 3, 8, and 12 months post randomization, telephone and in person surveys were administered on diet, physical activity, and physical measurements of height and weight were taken to calculate body mass index (BMI). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to examine differences over time, and between treatment and comparison groups. Dose variables reflecting use of the TV/video and written materials were also assessed. Results At 3 months, BMI, weight, and dietary fat were significantly lower and physical activity significantly higher among women exposed to the Cable TV intervention compared to the wait-list comparison group. Significant dietary fat differences were still observed at 8 and 12 month evaluations, but not BMI or physical activity differences. Main effects were not observed for interactive programming or enhanced social support at any time point. Within the intervention group, higher watching of the TV series and higher reading of educational materials were both (separately) associated with significantly lower dietary fat. Conclusions Cable TV was an effective delivery channel to assist Black women with weight control, increasing physical activity and decreasing dietary fat during an initial intervention period, but only dietary changes persisted Enhanced social support and the ability to interact with others during the show were not effective complementary intervention components as conducted in this trial. Future research to strengthen the ability of this approach to achieve long term effects may offer even more promising outcomes. PMID:24373253

  5. Society of Behavioral Medicine (SBM) position statement: SBM urges Congress to preserve and increase the financing of federally funded nutrition assistance programs and services.

    PubMed

    Behrman, Pamela; Demirci, Jill; Yanez, Betina; Beharie, Nisha; Laroche, Helena

    2018-05-03

    Deep cuts have been proposed to federally funded nutrition assistance programs, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP); the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC); and federally subsidized school breakfast and lunch programs. Yet, these programs help parents afford healthy meals for their families, pregnant and postpartum mothers access supplemental foods and health services for themselves and their infants and young children, and children obtain the nutrition necessary for optimal school performance. Participation in these programs is linked with reductions in perinatal morbidity and mortality, improved childhood growth trajectories, enhanced school performance, and reductions in food insecurity and poverty. Given these compelling health and economic benefits, the Society of Behavioral Medicine urges Congress to protect and increase funding for federally funded nutrition assistance programs, specifically SNAP, WIC, and school breakfast and lunch programs. Per the recent (2017) recommendations of the School Nutrition Association, Congress should also resist any attempts to "block-grant" subsidized school breakfast and lunch programs, which could reduce access to these programs. It is further recommended that Congress improve the scope of implementation- and outcomes-based assessments of these programs. Finally, we recommend efforts to increase awareness of and participation in SNAP, WIC, and federally funded school meal programs for eligible individuals, children, and families.

  6. TRU Waste Management Program. Cost/schedule optimization analysis

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

    Detamore, J.A.; Raudenbush, M.H.; Wolaver, R.W.

    This Current Year Work Plan presents in detail a description of the activities to be performed by the Joint Integration Office Rockwell International (JIO/RI) during FY86. It breaks down the activities into two major work areas: Program Management and Program Analysis. Program Management is performed by the JIO/RI by providing technical planning and guidance for the development of advanced TRU waste management capabilities. This includes equipment/facility design, engineering, construction, and operations. These functions are integrated to allow transition from interim storage to final disposition. JIO/RI tasks include program requirements identification, long-range technical planning, budget development, program planning document preparation, taskmore » guidance development, task monitoring, task progress information gathering and reporting to DOE, interfacing with other agencies and DOE lead programs, integrating public involvement with program efforts, and preparation of reports for DOE detailing program status. Program Analysis is performed by the JIO/RI to support identification and assessment of alternatives, and development of long-term TRU waste program capabilities. These analyses include short-term analyses in response to DOE information requests, along with performing an RH Cost/Schedule Optimization report. Systems models will be developed, updated, and upgraded as needed to enhance JIO/RI's capability to evaluate the adequacy of program efforts in various fields. A TRU program data base will be maintained and updated to provide DOE with timely responses to inventory related questions.« less

  7. Reframing the Dissemination Challenge: A Marketing and Distribution Perspective

    PubMed Central

    Bernhardt, Jay M.

    2009-01-01

    A fundamental obstacle to successful dissemination and implementation of evidence-based public health programs is the near-total absence of systems and infrastructure for marketing and distribution. We describe the functions of a marketing and distribution system, and we explain how it would help move effective public health programs from research to practice. Then we critically evaluate the 4 dominant strategies now used to promote dissemination and implementation, and we explain how each would be enhanced by marketing and distribution systems. Finally, we make 6 recommendations for building the needed system infrastructure and discuss the responsibility within the public health community for implementation of these recommendations. Without serious investment in such infrastructure, application of proven solutions in public health practice will continue to occur slowly and rarely. PMID:19833993

  8. Reframing the dissemination challenge: a marketing and distribution perspective.

    PubMed

    Kreuter, Matthew W; Bernhardt, Jay M

    2009-12-01

    A fundamental obstacle to successful dissemination and implementation of evidence-based public health programs is the near-total absence of systems and infrastructure for marketing and distribution. We describe the functions of a marketing and distribution system, and we explain how it would help move effective public health programs from research to practice. Then we critically evaluate the 4 dominant strategies now used to promote dissemination and implementation, and we explain how each would be enhanced by marketing and distribution systems. Finally, we make 6 recommendations for building the needed system infrastructure and discuss the responsibility within the public health community for implementation of these recommendations. Without serious investment in such infrastructure, application of proven solutions in public health practice will continue to occur slowly and rarely.

  9. Medicare and state health care programs: fraud and abuse, civil money penalties and intermediate sanctions for certain violations by health maintenance organizations and competitive medical plans--HHS. Final rule.

    PubMed

    1994-07-15

    This final rule implements sections 9312(c)(2), 9312(f), and 9434(b) of Public Law 99-509, section 7 of Public Law 100-93, section 4014 of Public Law 100-203, sections 224 and 411(k)(12) of Public Law 100-360, and section 6411(d)(3) of Public Law 101-239. These provisions broaden the Secretary's authority to impose intermediate sanctions and civil money penalties on health maintenance organizations (HMOs), competitive medical plans, and other prepaid health plans contracting under Medicare or Medicaid that (1) substantially fail to provide an enrolled individual with required medically necessary items and services; (2) engage in certain marketing, enrollment, reporting, or claims payment abuses; or (3) in the case of Medicare risk-contracting plans, employ or contract with, either directly or indirectly, an individual or entity excluded from participation in Medicare. The provisions also condition Federal financial participation in certain State payments on the State's exclusion of certain prohibited entities from participation in HMO contracts and waiver programs. This final rule is intended to significantly enhance the protections for Medicare beneficiaries and Medicaid recipients enrolled in a HMO, competitive medical plan, or other contracting organization under titles XVIII and XIX of the Social Security Act.

  10. Ethanol from Agriculture for Arkansas and America

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

    Hood, Elizabeth E

    The purpose of this project was to develop technology that would facilitate production of sugars from agricultural residues to enable biofuels and biobased product manufacturing. Our primary technology is to use genetic engineering to put bacterial and fungal cellulase genes into corn kernels, using the grain as the production system for the enzymes. At the beginning of this DoE funded program, we were producing two cellulases—E1 endocellulase from a bacterium found in a hot spring at Yellowstone National Park, and CBH I exocellulase from a wood rot fungus. Our team developed several new regulatory sequences (promoters) that increased enzyme proteinmore » accumulation in two kernel compartments (embryo and endosperm). We were also able to capitalize on the diverse genetics of corn to increase protein accumulation. High oil germplasm in particular was instrumental in this increase. A second task in the program was to produce enzymes and proteins that enhanced the activity of the E1 and CBH I enzymes. Our team produced CBH II, from the same wood rot fungus at a level that enabled highly enhanced deconstruction activity of E1 and CBH I in a synergistic manner. We analyzed an additional protein, expansin from cucumber that was expressed in the maize grain expression system. This protein had been previously shown to enhance cellulase activity (D. Cosgrove, Penn State University), and required a large-scale production platform. Our team showed that the corn production system allows industrial amounts of active expansin to be harvested from the grain. One of the challenges of any new production system is to maximize recovery of active ingredient from the raw materials at a cost compatible with its final use. Our team showed that low pH extraction of grain solubilized the enzymes without contamination of native corn protein and active product could be concentrated through ultrafiltration. The final outcomes of this project were the following: 3 cellulase enzymes and the synergistic protein expansin produced at high levels in corn grain, new promoters and combinations of promoters to enhance protein accumulation in grain, application of unique germplasm pools to enhance protein accumulation, and highly efficient processing enabling cost-effective production of cellulases that are highly active in biomass deconstruction.« less

  11. Core Content for Wilderness Medicine Training: Development of a Wilderness Medicine Track Within an Emergency Medicine Residency.

    PubMed

    Schrading, Walter A; Battaglioli, Nicole; Drew, Jonathan; McClure, Sarah Frances

    2018-03-01

    Wilderness medicine training has become increasingly popular among medical professionals with numerous educational opportunities nationwide. Curricula for fellowship programs and for medical student education have previously been developed and published, but a specific curriculum for wilderness medicine education during emergency medicine (EM) residency has not. The objective of this study is to create a longitudinal wilderness medicine curriculum that can be incorporated into an EM residency program. Interest-specific tracks are becoming increasingly common in EM training. We chose this model to develop our curriculum specific to wilderness medicine. Outlined in the article is a 3-year longitudinal course of study that includes a core didactic curriculum and a plan for graduated level of responsibility. The core content is specifically related to the required EM core content for residency training with additions specific to wilderness medicine for the residents who pursue the track. The wilderness medicine curriculum would give residencies a framework that can be used to foster learning for residents interested in wilderness medicine. It would enhance the coverage of wilderness and environmental core content education for all EM residents in the program. It would provide wilderness-specific education and experience for interested residents, allowing them to align their residency program requirements through a focused area of study and enhancing their curriculum vitae at graduation. Finally, given the popularity of wilderness medicine, the presence of a wilderness medicine track may improve recruitment for the residency program. Copyright © 2017 Wilderness Medical Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  12. Retention in service of recruits assigned to the army physical fitness test enhancement program in basic combat training.

    PubMed

    Knapik, Joseph J; Hauret, Keith G; Lange, Jeffery L; Jovag, Brian

    2003-06-01

    Recruits are assigned to the Army Physical Fitness Test Enhancement Program (APFTEP) if they are unable to pass the final Army physical fitness test at the end of basic combat training (BCT). The U.S. Army Medical Command tasked the U.S. Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine to examine the retention in service of individuals completing this program. To accomplish this tasking, the following data were obtained: a list of APFTEP recruits at Fort Jackson, South Carolina between January 1999 and June 2001; a list of BCT graduates from the Army Training Requirements and Resources System; and a comparison group of non-APFTEP recruits matched 3 to 1 on the basis of age, gender, Army entry date (+/- 30 days), BCT location, and active Army status from the Army Medical Surveillance Activity. We found that the proportion of recruits who successfully completed the APFTEP and graduated from BCT (85% of men, 80% of women) was lower than documented graduation rates for all recruits (93% of men, 87% of women). Retention in service after 1 year was also lower for APFTEP recruits than for non-APFTEP recruits among both men (74% vs. 92%, p < 0.01) and women (63% vs. 84%, p < 0.01). Despite the lower BCT graduation success and retention in service for APFTEP recruits, the program does assist in retaining soldiers who would otherwise be discharged for failing the Army physical fitness test. Thus, the program may be a useful tool for limiting attrition.

  13. Balancing radiation benefits and risks: The needs of an informed public

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

    Not Available

    1994-04-01

    The American public`s perceptions regarding ionizing radiation do not always conform to or correlate with scientific evidence. The ultimate purpose of this coordinated Federal effort and report is to increase the public`s knowledge of the benefits and risks associated with ionizing radiation. This report is divided into five sections. The first section, Introduction, discusses the public`s knowledge of radiation, their perceptions of benefits versus risks, and the Federal government`s role in public education. The section also outlines the charge to the Subpanel. Radiation Issues and Public Reactions discusses several radiation issues important to Federal agencies for which public education programsmore » need to be established or enhanced. Federal Programs describes Federal agencies with public education programs on radiation and the nature of the programs they support. Education Issues and Federal Strategies explores the elements identified by the Subpanel as critical to the development and implementation of an effective Federal program in the area of public education on radiation issues and nuclear technologies. An important issue repeatedly brought up during the public sector presentations to the Subpanel was the perceived lack of Federal credibility on radiation issues in the eyes of the public. To some degree, this concern was factored into all of the recommendations developed by the subpanel. The issues discussed in this section include the fragmented nature of Federal radiation programs and the need to improve credibility, promote agency responsiveness, and support the enhancement of scientific literacy. Finally, under Recommendations, the Subpanel discusses its overall findings and conclusions.« less

  14. FY 1986 current fiscal year work plan

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

    Not Available

    This Current Year Work Plan presents in detail a description of the activities to be performed by the Joint Integration Office/RI during FY86. It breaks down the activities into two major work areas: Program Management and Program Analysis. Program Management is performed by the JIO/RI by providing technical planning and guidance for the development of advanced TRU waste management capabilities. This includes equipment/facility design, engineering, construction, and operations. These functions are integrated to allow transition from interim storage to final disposition. JIO/RI tasks include program requirements identification, long-range technical planning, budget development, program planning document preparation, task guidance development, taskmore » monitoring, task progress information gathering and reporting to DOE, interfacing with other agencies and DOE lead programs, integrating public involvement with program efforts, and preparation of reports for DOE detailing program status. Program Analysis is performed by the JIO/RI to support identification and assessment of alternatives, and development of long-term TRU waste program capabilities. These analyses include short term analyses in response to DOE information requests, along with performing an RH Cost/Schedule Optimization report. System models will be developed, updated, and upgraded as needed to enhance JIO/RI's capability to evaluate the adequacy of program efforts in various fields. A TRU program data base will be maintained and updated to provide DOE with timely responses to inventory related questions.« less

  15. Differential Effects of Acute and Regular Physical Exercise on Cognition and Affect

    PubMed Central

    Hopkins, Michael E.; Davis, F. Caroline; VanTieghem, Michelle R.; Whalen, Paul J.; Bucci, David J.

    2012-01-01

    The effects of regular exercise versus a single bout of exercise on cognition, anxiety, and mood were systematically examined in healthy, sedentary young adults who were genotyped to determine brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) allelic status (i.e., Val-Val or Val66Met polymorphism). Participants were evaluated on novel object recognition (NOR) memory and a battery of mental health surveys before and after engaging in either a) a four-week exercise program, with exercise on the final test day, b) a four-week exercise program, without exercise on the final test day, c) a single bout of exercise on the final test day, or d) remaining sedentary between test days. Exercise enhanced object recognition memory and produced a beneficial decrease in perceived stress, but only in participants who exercised for four weeks including the final day of testing. In contrast, a single bout of exercise did not affect recognition memory and resulted in increased perceived stress levels. An additional novel finding was that the improvements on the NOR task were observed exclusively in participants who were homozygous for the BDNF Val allele, indicating that altered activity-dependent release of BDNF in Met allele carriers may attenuate the cognitive benefits of exercise. Importantly, exercise-induced changes in cognition were not correlated with changes in mood/anxiety, suggesting that separate neural systems mediate these effects. These data in humans mirror recent data from our group in rodents. Taken together, these current findings provide new insights into the behavioral and neural mechanisms that mediate the effects of physical exercise on memory and mental health in humans. PMID:22554780

  16. Dysregulation of haematopoietic stem cell regulatory programs in acute myeloid leukaemia.

    PubMed

    Basilico, Silvia; Göttgens, Berthold

    2017-07-01

    Haematopoietic stem cells (HSC) are situated at the apex of the haematopoietic differentiation hierarchy, ensuring the life-long supply of mature haematopoietic cells and forming a reservoir to replenish the haematopoietic system in case of emergency such as acute blood loss. To maintain a balanced production of all mature lineages and at the same time secure a stem cell reservoir, intricate regulatory programs have evolved to control multi-lineage differentiation and self-renewal in haematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs). Leukaemogenic mutations commonly disrupt these regulatory programs causing a block in differentiation with simultaneous enhancement of proliferation. Here, we briefly summarize key aspects of HSPC regulatory programs, and then focus on their disruption by leukaemogenic fusion genes containing the mixed lineage leukaemia (MLL) gene. Using MLL as an example, we explore important questions of wider significance that are still under debate, including the importance of cell of origin, to what extent leukaemia oncogenes impose specific regulatory programs and the relevance of leukaemia stem cells for disease development and prognosis. Finally, we suggest that disruption of stem cell regulatory programs is likely to play an important role in many other pathologies including ageing-associated regenerative failure.

  17. Liquid flyback booster pre-phase: A study assessment

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Peterson, W.; Ankney, W.; Bell, J.; Berning, M.; Bryant, L.; Bufkin, A.; Cain, L.; Caram, J.; Cockrell, B.; Curry, D.

    1994-01-01

    The concept of a flyback booster has been around since early in the shuttle program. The original two-stage shuttle concepts used a manned flyback booster. These boosters were eliminated from the program for funding and size reasons. The current shuttle uses two Redesigned Solid Rocket Motors (RSRM's), which are recovered and refurbished after each flight; this is one of the major cost factors of the program. Replacement options have been studied over the past ten years. The conclusion reached by the most recent study is that the liquid flyback booster (LFBB) is the only competitive option from a life-cycle cost perspective. The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility and practicality of LFBB's. The study provides an expansion of the recommendations made during the aforementioned study. The primary benefits are the potential for enhanced reusability and a reduction of recurring costs. The potential savings in vehicle turnaround could offset the up-front costs. Development of LFBB's requires a commitment to the shuttle program for 20 to 30 years. LFBB's also offer enhanced safety and abort capabilities. Currently, any failure of an RSRM can be considered catastrophic, since there are no intact abort capabilities during the burn of the RSRM's. The performance goal of the LFBB's was to lift a fully loaded orbiter under optimal conditions, so as not to be the limiting factor of the performance capability of the shuttle. In addition, a final benefit is the availability of growth paths for applications other than shuttle.

  18. Liquid Flyback Booster Pre-Phase A Study Assessment. Volume 1

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Peterson, W.; Ankney, W.; Bell, J.; Berning, M.; Bryant, L.; Bufkin, A.; Cain, L.; Caram, J.; Cockrell, B.; Curry, D.; hide

    1994-01-01

    Mw concept of a flyback booster has been around since early in the Shuttle program. The original two-stage Shuttle concepts used a manned flyback booster. These boosters were eliminated from the program for funding and size reasons. The current Shuttle uses two Redesigned Solid Rocket Motors (RSRMs), which are recovered and refurbished after each flight; this is one of the major cost factors of the program. Replacement options have been studied over the past ten years. The conclusion reached by the most recent study is that the liquid flyback booster (LFBB) is the only competitive option from a life-cycle cost perspective. The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility and practicality of LFBBs. The study provides an expansion of the recommendations made during the during the aforementioned study. The primary benefits are the potential for enhanced reusability and a reuction of recurring costs. The potential savings in vehicle turnaround could offset the up-front costs. Development of LFBBs requires a commitment to the Shuttle program for 20 to 30 years. LFBBs also offer enhanced safety and abort capabilities. Currently, any failure of an RSRM can be considered catastrophic since them we no intact abort capabilities during the burn of the RSRMS. The performance goal of the LFBBs was to lift a fully loaded Orbiter under optimal conditions, so as not to be the limiting factor of the performance capability of the Shuttle. In addition, a final benefit is the availability of growth paths for applications other than the Shuttle.

  19. Standards for Endovascular Neurosurgical Training and Certification of the Society of Korean Endovascular Neurosurgeons 2013

    PubMed Central

    Shin, Dong-Seong; Park, Sukh-Que; Kang, Hyun-Seung; Yoon, Seok-Mann; Cho, Jae-Hoon; Lim, Dong-Jun; Baik, Min-Woo; Kwon, O Ki

    2014-01-01

    The need for standard endovascular neurosurgical (ENS) training programs and certification in Korea cannot be overlooked due to the increasing number of ENS specialists and the expanding ENS field. The Society of Korean Endovascular Neurosurgeons (SKEN) Certification Committee has prepared training programs and certification since 2010, and the first certificates were issued in 2013. A task force team (TFT) was organized in August 2010 to develop training programs and certification. TFT members researched programs and systems in other countries to develop a program that best suited Korea. After 2 years, a rough draft of the ENS training and certification regulations were prepared, and the standard training program title was decided. The SKEN Certification Committee made an official announcement about the certification program in March 2013. The final certification regulations comprised three major parts: certified endovascular neurosurgeons (EN), certified ENS institutions, and certified ENS training institutions. Applications have been evaluated and the results were announced in June 2013 as follows: 126 members received EN certification and 55 hospitals became ENS-certified institutions. The SKEN has established standard ENS training programs together with a certification system, and it is expected that they will advance the field of ENS to enhance public health and safety in Korea. PMID:24851145

  20. Rural Textile Workers Literacy Enhancement Project. Final Performance Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Enterprise State Junior Coll., AL.

    This document consists of the final report and sample curricula from the Rural Textile Workers Literacy Enhancement Project. The final report details how the project was initiated in April 1993 to help employees of five textile and apparel manufacturing companies in southeastern Alabama improve their literacy and numeracy skills. A second…

  1. BEST (Better Educational Skills Training). Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Vermont Adult Learning, Rutland.

    This document contains a final report, evaluation report, and materials from the Better Educational Skills Training (BEST) workplace literacy program in Vermont. The seven-page final report describes program components: (1) expanding and institutionalizing the workplace literacy program developed through two previous national workplace literacy…

  2. 75 FR 71325 - Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-11-23

    ... Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program AGENCY: Commodity Credit Corporation, Natural Resources Conservation... final rule for the Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program (WHIP). This final rule sets forth how NRCS, using... Albert Cerna, National Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program Manager, Financial Assistance Programs Division...

  3. 34 CFR 225.3 - What regulations apply to the Credit Enhancement for Charter School Facilities Program?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... Charter School Facilities Program? 225.3 Section 225.3 Education Regulations of the Offices of the... ENHANCEMENT FOR CHARTER SCHOOL FACILITIES PROGRAM General § 225.3 What regulations apply to the Credit Enhancement for Charter School Facilities Program? The following regulations apply to the Credit Enhancement...

  4. 34 CFR 225.3 - What regulations apply to the Credit Enhancement for Charter School Facilities Program?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... Charter School Facilities Program? 225.3 Section 225.3 Education Regulations of the Offices of the... ENHANCEMENT FOR CHARTER SCHOOL FACILITIES PROGRAM General § 225.3 What regulations apply to the Credit Enhancement for Charter School Facilities Program? The following regulations apply to the Credit Enhancement...

  5. 34 CFR 225.3 - What regulations apply to the Credit Enhancement for Charter School Facilities Program?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... Charter School Facilities Program? 225.3 Section 225.3 Education Regulations of the Offices of the... ENHANCEMENT FOR CHARTER SCHOOL FACILITIES PROGRAM General § 225.3 What regulations apply to the Credit Enhancement for Charter School Facilities Program? The following regulations apply to the Credit Enhancement...

  6. 34 CFR 225.3 - What regulations apply to the Credit Enhancement for Charter School Facilities Program?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... Charter School Facilities Program? 225.3 Section 225.3 Education Regulations of the Offices of the... ENHANCEMENT FOR CHARTER SCHOOL FACILITIES PROGRAM General § 225.3 What regulations apply to the Credit Enhancement for Charter School Facilities Program? The following regulations apply to the Credit Enhancement...

  7. 34 CFR 225.3 - What regulations apply to the Credit Enhancement for Charter School Facilities Program?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... Charter School Facilities Program? 225.3 Section 225.3 Education Regulations of the Offices of the... ENHANCEMENT FOR CHARTER SCHOOL FACILITIES PROGRAM General § 225.3 What regulations apply to the Credit Enhancement for Charter School Facilities Program? The following regulations apply to the Credit Enhancement...

  8. Federal Register Notice: Final Rule Establishing Consolidated Permit Program Requirements Under Several Environmental Statutes

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    This final rule establishes consolidated permit program requirements governing the Hazardous Waste Management program under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and other related programs.

  9. 75 FR 16719 - Agricultural Water Enhancement Program

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-04-02

    ... DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Commodity Credit Corporation Agricultural Water Enhancement Program... Energy Act of 2008 (2008 Act) established the Agricultural Water Enhancement Program (AWEP) by amending... to implement agricultural water enhancement activities on agricultural land for the purposes of...

  10. Global Change Research Related in the Earth's Energy and Hydrologic Cycle

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Berry, Linda R.

    2002-01-01

    The mission of the Global Change Research Related to the Earth's Energy and Hydrologic Cycle is to enhance the scientific knowledge and educational benefits obtained from NASA's Earth Science Enterprise and the U.S. Global Change Research Program, University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH). This paper presents the final technical report on this collaborative effort. Various appendices include: A) Staff Travel Activities years one through three; B) Publications and Presentations years one through three; C) Education Activities; D) Students year one through three; E) Seminars year one through three; and F) Center for Applied Optics Projects.

  11. An Investigation of the Outward Bound Final Expedition

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bobilya, Andrew J.; Kalisch, Ken; Daniel, Brad

    2011-01-01

    Research of wilderness programs indicates a clear need for additional investigation of specific program components and their influence on participant outcomes. This study examines one component of the Outward Bound wilderness program--the Final Expedition. The Final Expedition is a student-led wilderness expedition and is also referred to as an…

  12. 78 FR 70225 - West Virginia: Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program Revisions

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-11-25

    ... Department of Environmental Protection, (WVDEP), Division of Water and Waste Management, 601 57th Street SE...] West Virginia: Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program Revisions AGENCY... for final authorization of revisions to its hazardous waste program under the Resource Conservation...

  13. Final environmental statement, Liquid Metal Fast Breeder Reactor Program. Volume 1

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

    None

    1975-12-01

    Information is presented under the following section headings: LMFBR program options and their compatibility with the major issues affecting commercial development, Proposed Final Environmental Statement for the LMFBR program, December 1974, WASH-1535, supplemental material, and material relating to Proposed Final Environmental Statement review. (DG)

  14. Alabama DOE/EPSCoR traineeship program. Final report, September 28, 1991--September 28, 1995

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

    Pruitt, K.M.; April, G.C.

    1995-12-01

    This report covers programmatic accomplishments of the Alabama DOE/EPSCoR Traineeship Program for the period September 28, 1991 to September 29, 1995. The Alabama DOE/EPSCoR Traineeship Program is an integral part of this state`s efforts to address barriers that inhibit the full development and substantial growth of energy-related research at the six major research institutions and at Alabama`s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). To overcome these barriers it was determined that the following actions were needed: Area 1: Strengthening the Research Faculty Base Area 2: Increasing the Number of Outstanding Graduate Students Area 3: Improving the Research Environment Area 4:more » Developing the Human Resources Base Area 5. Improving the Energy-related Infrastructure, Collaborations and Communications. Although the DOE/EPSCoR Traineeship Grant complements each of the areas listed above, its primary emphasis is the enhancement of opportunities for graduate students. The extent to which this program has met this challenge during the three year funding period constitutes the substance of this report.« less

  15. Curriculum Redesign in Veterinary Medicine: Part II.

    PubMed

    Macik, Maria L; Chaney, Kristin P; Turner, Jacqueline S; Rogers, Kenita S; Scallan, Elizabeth M; Korich, Jodi A; Fowler, Debra; Keefe, Lisa M

    Curricular review is considered a necessary component for growth and enhancement of academic programs and requires time, energy, creativity, and persistence from both faculty and administration. On a larger scale, a comprehensive redesign effort involves forming a dedicated faculty redesign team, developing program learning outcomes, mapping the existing curriculum, and reviewing the curriculum in light of collected stakeholder data. The faculty of the Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (TAMU) recently embarked on a comprehensive curriculum redesign effort through partnership with the university's Center for Teaching Excellence. Using a previously developed evidence-based model of program redesign, TAMU created a process for use in veterinary medical education, which is described in detail in the first part of this article series. An additional component of the redesign process that is understated, yet vital for success, is faculty buy-in and support. Without faculty engagement, implementation of data-driven curricular changes stemming from program evaluation may be challenging. This second part of the article series describes the methodology for encouraging faculty engagement through the final steps of the redesign initiative and the lessons learned by TAMU through the redesign process.

  16. Applications of ISES for the atmospheric sciences

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hoell, James M., Jr.

    1990-01-01

    The proposed Information Sciences Experiment System (ISES) will offer the opportunity for real-time access to measurements acquired aboard the Earth Observation System (Eos) satellite. These measurements can then be transmitted to remotely located ground based stations. The application of such measurements to issues related to atmospheric science which was presented to a workshop convened to review possible application of the ISES in earth sciences is summarized. The proposed protocol for Eos instruments requires that measurement results be available in a central data archive within 72 hours of acquiring data. Such a turnaround of raw satellite data to the final product will clearly enhance the timeliness of the results. Compared to the time that results from many current satellite programs, the 72 hour turnaround may be considered real time. Examples are discussed showing how real-time measurements from one or more of the proposed Eos instruments could have been applied to the study of certain issues important to global atmospheric chemistry. Each of the examples discussed is based upon a field mission conducted during the past five years. Each of these examples will emphasize how real-time data could have been used to alter the course of a field experiment, thereby enhancing the scientific output. For the examples, brief overviews of the scientific rationale and objectives, the region of operation, the measurements aboard the aircraft, and finally how one or more of the proposed Eos instruments could have provided data to enhance the productivity of the mission are discussed.

  17. Blended learning approach improves teaching in a problem-based learning environment in orthopedics - a pilot study.

    PubMed

    Back, David A; Haberstroh, Nicole; Antolic, Andrea; Sostmann, Kai; Schmidmaier, Gerhard; Hoff, Eike

    2014-01-27

    While e-learning is enjoying increasing popularity as adjunct in modern teaching, studies on this topic should shift from mere evaluation of students' satisfaction towards assessing its benefits on enhancement of knowledge and skills. This pilot study aimed to detect the teaching effects of a blended learning program on students of orthopedics and traumatology in the context of a problem-based learning environment. The project NESTOR (network for students in traumatology and orthopedics) was offered to students in a problem-based learning course. Participants completed written tests before and directly after the course, followed by a final written test and an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) as well as an evaluation questionnaire at the end of the semester. Results were compared within the group of NESTOR users and non-users and between these two groups. Participants (n = 53) rated their experiences very positively. An enhancement in knowledge was found directly after the course and at the final written test for both groups (p < 0.001). NESTOR users scored higher than non-users in the post-tests, while the OSCE revealed no differences between the groups. This pilot study showed a positive effect of the blended learning approach on knowledge enhancement and satisfaction of participating students. However, it will be an aim for the future to further explore the chances of this approach and internet-based technologies for possibilities to improve also practical examination skills.

  18. Blended learning approach improves teaching in a problem-based learning environment in orthopedics - a pilot study

    PubMed Central

    2014-01-01

    Background While e-learning is enjoying increasing popularity as adjunct in modern teaching, studies on this topic should shift from mere evaluation of students’ satisfaction towards assessing its benefits on enhancement of knowledge and skills. This pilot study aimed to detect the teaching effects of a blended learning program on students of orthopedics and traumatology in the context of a problem-based learning environment. Methods The project NESTOR (network for students in traumatology and orthopedics) was offered to students in a problem-based learning course. Participants completed written tests before and directly after the course, followed by a final written test and an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) as well as an evaluation questionnaire at the end of the semester. Results were compared within the group of NESTOR users and non-users and between these two groups. Results Participants (n = 53) rated their experiences very positively. An enhancement in knowledge was found directly after the course and at the final written test for both groups (p < 0.001). NESTOR users scored higher than non-users in the post-tests, while the OSCE revealed no differences between the groups. Conclusions This pilot study showed a positive effect of the blended learning approach on knowledge enhancement and satisfaction of participating students. However, it will be an aim for the future to further explore the chances of this approach and internet-based technologies for possibilities to improve also practical examination skills. PMID:24690365

  19. Residents' perspectives on the final year of medical school

    PubMed Central

    Obrien, Bridget; Niehaus, Brian; Teherani, Arianne; Young, John Q.

    2012-01-01

    Objectives To characterize junior residents’ perspectives on the purpose, value, and potential improvement of the final year of medical school. Methods Eighteen interviews were conducted with junior residents who graduated from nine different medical schools and who were in internal medicine, surgery, and psychiatry programs at one institution in the United States. Interview transcripts were coded and analyzed inductively for themes. Results Participants’ descriptions of the purpose of their recently completed final year of medical school contained three primary themes: residency-related purposes, interest- or need-based purposes, and transitional purposes. Participants commented on the most valued aspects of the final year. Themes included opportunities to: prepare for residency; assume a higher level of responsibility in patient care; pursue experiences of interest that added breadth of knowledge, skills and perspective; develop and/or clarify career plans; and enjoy a period of respite. Suggestions for improvement included enhancing the learning value of clinical electives, augmenting specific curricular content, and making the final year more purposeful and better aligned with career goals. Conclusions The final year of medical school is a critical part of medical education for most learners, but careful attention is needed to ensure that the year is developmentally robust. Medical educators can facilitate this by creating structures to help students define personal and professional goals, identify opportunities to work toward these goals, and monitor progress so that the value of the final year is optimized and not exclusively focused on residency preparation. PMID:28029642

  20. The use of wireless laptop computers for computer-assisted learning in pharmacokinetics.

    PubMed

    Munar, Myrna Y; Singh, Harleen; Belle, Donna; Brackett, Carolyn C; Earle, Sandra B

    2006-02-15

    To implement computer-assisted learning workshops into pharmacokinetics courses in a doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) program. Workshops were designed for students to utilize computer software programs on laptop computers to build pharmacokinetic models to predict drug concentrations resulting from various dosage regimens. In addition, students were able to visualize through graphing programs how altering different parameters changed drug concentration-time curves. Surveys were conducted to measure students' attitudes toward computer technology before and after implementation. Finally, traditional examinations were used to evaluate student learning. Doctor of pharmacy students responded favorably to the use of wireless laptop computers in problem-based pharmacokinetic workshops. Eighty-eight percent (n = 61/69) and 82% (n = 55/67) of PharmD students completed surveys before and after computer implementation, respectively. Prior to implementation, 95% of students agreed that computers would enhance learning in pharmacokinetics. After implementation, 98% of students strongly agreed (p < 0.05) that computers enhanced learning. Examination results were significantly higher after computer implementation (89% with computers vs. 84% without computers; p = 0.01). Implementation of wireless laptop computers in a pharmacokinetic course enabled students to construct their own pharmacokinetic models that could respond to changing parameters. Students had greater comprehension and were better able to interpret results and provide appropriate recommendations. Computer-assisted pharmacokinetic techniques can be powerful tools when making decisions about drug therapy.

  1. The Use of Wireless Laptop Computers for Computer-Assisted Learning in Pharmacokinetics

    PubMed Central

    Munar, Myrna Y.; Singh, Harleen; Belle, Donna; Brackett, Carolyn C.; Earle, Sandra B.

    2006-01-01

    Objective To implement computer-assisted learning workshops into pharmacokinetics courses in a doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) program. Design Workshops were designed for students to utilize computer software programs on laptop computers to build pharmacokinetic models to predict drug concentrations resulting from various dosage regimens. In addition, students were able to visualize through graphing programs how altering different parameters changed drug concentration-time curves. Surveys were conducted to measure students’ attitudes toward computer technology before and after implementation. Finally, traditional examinations were used to evaluate student learning. Assessment Doctor of pharmacy students responded favorably to the use of wireless laptop computers in problem-based pharmacokinetic workshops. Eighty-eight percent (n = 61/69) and 82% (n = 55/67) of PharmD students completed surveys before and after computer implementation, respectively. Prior to implementation, 95% of students agreed that computers would enhance learning in pharmacokinetics. After implementation, 98% of students strongly agreed (p < 0.05) that computers enhanced learning. Examination results were significantly higher after computer implementation (89% with computers vs. 84% without computers; p = 0.01). Conclusion Implementation of wireless laptop computers in a pharmacokinetic course enabled students to construct their own pharmacokinetic models that could respond to changing parameters. Students had greater comprehension and were better able to interpret results and provide appropriate recommendations. Computer-assisted pharmacokinetic techniques can be powerful tools when making decisions about drug therapy. PMID:17136147

  2. 75 FR 2013 - Health Information Technology: Initial Set of Standards, Implementation Specifications, and...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-01-13

    ...The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is issuing this interim final rule with a request for comments to adopt an initial set of standards, implementation specifications, and certification criteria, as required by section 3004(b)(1) of the Public Health Service Act. This interim final rule represents the first step in an incremental approach to adopting standards, implementation specifications, and certification criteria to enhance the interoperability, functionality, utility, and security of health information technology and to support its meaningful use. The certification criteria adopted in this initial set establish the capabilities and related standards that certified electronic health record (EHR) technology will need to include in order to, at a minimum, support the achievement of the proposed meaningful use Stage 1 (beginning in 2011) by eligible professionals and eligible hospitals under the Medicare and Medicaid EHR Incentive Programs.

  3. FINAL DESIGN REVIEW REPORT Subcritical Experiments Gen 2, 3-ft Confinement Vessel Weldment

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

    Romero, Christopher

    A Final Design Review (FDR) of the Subcritical Experiments (SCE) Gen 2, 3-ft. Confinement Vessel Weldment was held at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) on September 14, 2017. The review was a focused review on changes only to the confinement vessel weldment (versus a system design review). The changes resulted from lessons-learned in fabricating and inspecting the current set of confinement vessels used for the SCE Program. The baseline 3-ft. confinement vessel weldment design has successfully been used (to date) for three (3) high explosive (HE) over-tests, two (2) fragment tests, and five (5) integral HE experiments. The design teammore » applied lessons learned from fabrication and inspection of these vessel weldments to enhance fit-up, weldability, inspection, and fitness for service evaluations. The review team consisted of five (5) independent subject matter experts with engineering design, analysis, testing, fabrication, and inspection experience. The« less

  4. Musical structure analysis using similarity matrix and dynamic programming

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shiu, Yu; Jeong, Hong; Kuo, C.-C. Jay

    2005-10-01

    Automatic music segmentation and structure analysis from audio waveforms based on a three-level hierarchy is examined in this research, where the three-level hierarchy includes notes, measures and parts. The pitch class profile (PCP) feature is first extracted at the note level. Then, a similarity matrix is constructed at the measure level, where a dynamic time warping (DTW) technique is used to enhance the similarity computation by taking the temporal distortion of similar audio segments into account. By processing the similarity matrix, we can obtain a coarse-grain music segmentation result. Finally, dynamic programming is applied to the coarse-grain segments so that a song can be decomposed into several major parts such as intro, verse, chorus, bridge and outro. The performance of the proposed music structure analysis system is demonstrated for pop and rock music.

  5. Cryogenic fluid management (base R/T): Cryogenic fluid systems, Cryogenic Orbital Nitrogen Experiment (CONE), Cryogenic Orbital Hydrogen Experiment (COHE). (Transportation focused technology)

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Symons, Pat

    1991-01-01

    The topics presented are covered in viewgraph form. The concluded remarks are: (1) advanced cryogenic fluid systems technology is enhancing or enabling to all known transportation scenarios for space exploration; (2) an integrated/coordinated program involving LeRC/MSFC has been formulated to address all known CFM needs - new needs should they develop, can be accommodated within available skills/facilities; (3) all required/experienced personnel and facilities are finally in place - data from initial ground-based experiments is being collected and analyzed - small scale STS experiments are nearing flight - program is beginning to yield significant results; (4) future proposed funding to primarily come from two sources; and (5) cryogenic fluid experimentation is essential to provide required technology and assure implementation in future NASA missions.

  6. MINDS: A microcomputer interactive data system for 8086-based controllers

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Soeder, J. F.

    1985-01-01

    A microcomputer interactive data system (MINDS) software package for the 8086 family of microcomputers is described. To enhance program understandability and ease of code maintenance, the software is written in PL/M-86, Intel Corporation's high-level system implementation language. The MINDS software is intended to run in residence with real-time digital control software to provide displays of steady-state and transient data. In addition, the MINDS package provides classic monitor capabilities along with extended provisions for debugging an executing control system. The software uses the CP/M-86 operating system developed by Digital Research, Inc., to provide program load capabilities along with a uniform file structure for data and table storage. Finally, a library of input and output subroutines to be used with consoles equipped with PL/M-86 and assembly language is described.

  7. 78 FR 25678 - Georgia: Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program Revisions

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-05-02

    ...: Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program Revisions AGENCY: Environmental... of changes to its hazardous waste program under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA... Gwendolyn Gleaton, Permits and State Programs Section, RCRA Programs and Materials Management Branch, RCRA...

  8. Undergraduate research studies program at participating institutions of the HBCU Fossil Energy Consortium. Final report

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

    Bota, K.B.

    1991-12-31

    The primary objective of this research program is to expose students in the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Fossil Energy Consortium Institutions to energy and fossil fuels research, to stimulate their interest in the sciences and engineering and to encourage them to pursue graduate studies. This report provides the research accomplishment of the various students who participated in the program. Research results are presented on the following topics: Energy Enhancement and Pollutant Reduction in Coal by Cryogenic Diminution; Competition of NO and SO{sub 2} for OH Generated witin Electrical Aerosol Analyzers; Dispersed Iron Catalysts for Coal Gasification; NQR/NMR Studiesmore » of Copper-Cobalt Catalysts for Syngas Concersion; Catalytic gasification of Coal Chars by Potassium Sulfate and Ferrous Sulfate Mixtures; A New Method for Cleaning and Beneficiation of Ultrafine Coal; Characterization Studies of Coal-Derived Liquids; Study of Coal Liquefaction Catalysts and Removal of Certain Toxic Heavy Metal Ions from Coal Conversion Process Wastewaters.« less

  9. Status Review of Wildlife Mitigation at 14 of 27 Major Hydroelectric Projects in Idaho, 1983-1984 Final Report.

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

    Martin, Robert C.; Mehrhoff, L.A.

    1985-01-01

    The Pacific Northwest Electric Power Planning and Conservation Act and wildlife and their habitats in the Columbia River Basin and to compliance with the Program, the wildlife mitigation status reports coordination with resource agencies and Indian Tribes. developed the Columbia River Basin Fish and Wildlife Program development, operation, and maintenance of hydroelectric projects on existing agreements; and past, current, and proposed wildlife factual review and documentation of existing information on wildlife meet the requirements of Measure 1004(b)(l) of the Program. The mitigation, enhancement, and protection activities were considered. In mitigate for the losses to those resources resulting from the purposemore » of these wildlife mitigation status reports is to provide a resources at some of the Columbia River Basin hydroelectric projects the river and its tributaries. To accomplish this goal, the Council were written with the cooperation of project operators, and in within Idaho.« less

  10. Student Assistance General Provisions; Federal Pell Grant Program; Academic Competitiveness Grant Program; and National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent Grant Program. Final Rule. Federal Register, Part IV, Department of Education, 34 CFR Parts 668, 690, and 691

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    National Archives and Records Administration, 2006

    2006-01-01

    The Secretary is adopting as final, with changes, interim final regulations in: 34 CFR part 691 for the Academic Competitiveness Grant (ACG) and National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent Grant (National SMART Grant) programs; 34 CFR part 668 (Student Assistance General Provisions); and 34 CFR part 690 (Federal Pell Grant Program).…

  11. A Time-Domain CMOS Oscillator-Based Thermostat with Digital Set-Point Programming

    PubMed Central

    Chen, Chun-Chi; Lin, Shih-Hao

    2013-01-01

    This paper presents a time-domain CMOS oscillator-based thermostat with digital set-point programming [without a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) or external resistor] to achieve on-chip thermal management of modern VLSI systems. A time-domain delay-line-based thermostat with multiplexers (MUXs) was used to substantially reduce the power consumption and chip size, and can benefit from the performance enhancement due to the scaling down of fabrication processes. For further cost reduction and accuracy enhancement, this paper proposes a thermostat using two oscillators that are suitable for time-domain curvature compensation instead of longer linear delay lines. The final time comparison was achieved using a time comparator with a built-in custom hysteresis to generate the corresponding temperature alarm and control. The chip size of the circuit was reduced to 0.12 mm2 in a 0.35-μm TSMC CMOS process. The thermostat operates from 0 to 90 °C, and achieved a fine resolution better than 0.05 °C and an improved inaccuracy of ± 0.6 °C after two-point calibration for eight packaged chips. The power consumption was 30 μW at a sample rate of 10 samples/s. PMID:23385403

  12. Essentials for Team Based Rehearsals and the Differences Between Earth Orbiting and Deep Space Missions

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Gomez-Rosa, Carlos; Cifuentes, Juan; Wasiak, Francis; Alfonzo, Agustin

    2015-01-01

    The mission readiness environment is where spacecraft and ground systems converge to form the entire as built flight system for the final phase of operationally-themed testing. For most space missions, this phase starts between nine to twelve months prior to the planned launch. In the mission readiness environment, the goal is to perform sufficient testing to exercise the flight teams and systems through all mission phases in order to demonstrate that all elements are ready to support. As part of the maturation process, a mission rehearsal program is introduced to focus on team processes within the final flight system, in a more realistic operational environment. The overall goal for a mission rehearsal program is to: 1) ensure all flight system elements are able to meet mission objectives as a cohesive team; 2) reduce the risk in space based operations due to deficiencies in people, processes, procedures, or systems; and 3) instill confidence in the teams that will execute these first time flight activities. A good rehearsal program ensures critical events are exercised, discovers team or flight system nuances whose impact were previously unknown, and provides a real-time environment in which to interact with the various teams and systems. For flight team members, the rehearsal program provides experience and training in the event of planned (or unplanned) flight contingencies. To preserve the essence for team based rehearsals, this paper will explore the important elements necessary for a successful rehearsal program, document differences driven by Earth Orbiting (Aqua, Aura, Suomi-National Polar-orbiting Partnership (NPP)) and Deep Space missions (New Horizons, Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN (MAVEN)) and discuss common challenges to both mission types. In addition, large scale program considerations and enhancements or additional steps for developing a rehearsal program will also be considered. For NASA missions, the mission rehearsal phase is a key milestone for predicting and ensuring on-orbit success.

  13. 7 CFR 1493.250 - Final application and issuance of a facility payment guarantee.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ...) COMMODITY CREDIT CORPORATION, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE EXPORT PROGRAMS CCC EXPORT CREDIT GUARANTEE PROGRAMS CCC Facility Guarantee Program (FGP) Operations § 1493.250 Final application and issuance of a... commitment may, within six months of the date of such letter, submit a final application to CCC for a...

  14. 7 CFR 1493.250 - Final application and issuance of a facility payment guarantee.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ...) COMMODITY CREDIT CORPORATION, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE EXPORT PROGRAMS CCC EXPORT CREDIT GUARANTEE PROGRAMS CCC Facility Guarantee Program (FGP) Operations § 1493.250 Final application and issuance of a... commitment may, within six months of the date of such letter, submit a final application to CCC for a...

  15. 7 CFR 1493.250 - Final application and issuance of a facility payment guarantee.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ...) COMMODITY CREDIT CORPORATION, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE EXPORT PROGRAMS CCC EXPORT CREDIT GUARANTEE PROGRAMS CCC Facility Guarantee Program (FGP) Operations § 1493.250 Final application and issuance of a... commitment may, within six months of the date of such letter, submit a final application to CCC for a...

  16. 75 FR 18146 - Wetlands Reserve Enhancement Program

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-04-09

    ... DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Commodity Credit Corporation Wetlands Reserve Enhancement Program AGENCY... assistance will be made available in fiscal year (FY) 2010 for the Wetlands Reserve Enhancement Program (WREP... partners to help enhance conservation outcomes on wetlands and adjacent lands. WREP targets and leverages...

  17. 76 FR 58492 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comment Request; Final...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-09-21

    ... Activities; Proposed Collection; Comment Request; Final Authorization for Hazardous Waste Management Programs... Request (ICR) concerning final authorization for State Hazardous Waste Management Programs. This ICR is... potentially affected by this action are States. Title: Final Authorization for Hazardous Waste Management...

  18. 76 FR 6594 - Florida: Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program Revisions

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-02-07

    ...: Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program Revisions AGENCY: Environmental... of the changes to its hazardous waste program under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA... and State Programs Section, RCRA Programs and Materials Management Branch, RCRA Division, U.S...

  19. 77 FR 60963 - Tennessee: Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program Revisions

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-10-05

    ...: Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program Revisions AGENCY: Environmental... of the changes to its hazardous waste program under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA... Johnson, Permits and State Programs Section, RCRA Programs and Materials Management Branch, RCRA Division...

  20. Incentives for nondiscriminatory wellness programs in group health plans. Final rule.

    PubMed

    2013-06-03

    This document contains final regulations, consistent with the Affordable Care Act, regarding nondiscriminatory wellness programs in group health coverage. Specifically, these final regulations increase the maximum permissible reward under a health-contingent wellness program offered in connection with a group health plan (and any related health insurance coverage) from 20 percent to 30 percent of the cost of coverage. The final regulations further increase the maximum permissible reward to 50 percent for wellness programs designed to prevent or reduce tobacco use. These regulations also include other clarifications regarding the reasonable design of health-contingent wellness programs and the reasonable alternatives they must offer in order to avoid prohibited discrimination.

  1. An application of programmatic assessment for learning (PAL) system for general practice training.

    PubMed

    Schuwirth, Lambert; Valentine, Nyoli; Dilena, Paul

    2017-01-01

    Aim: Programmatic assessment for learning (PAL) is becoming more and more popular as a concept but its implementation is not without problems. In this paper we describe the design principles behind a PAL program in a general practice training context. Design principles: The PAL program was designed to optimise the meaningfulness of assessment information for the registrar and to make him/her use that information to self regulate their learning. The main principles in the program were cognitivist and transformative. The main cognitive principles we used were fostering the understanding of deep structures and stimulating transfer by making registrars constantly connect practice experiences with background knowledge. Ericsson's deliberate practice approach was built in with regard to the provision of feedback combined with Pintrich's model of self regulation. Mezirow's transformative learning and insights from social network theory on collaborative learning were used to support the registrars in their development to become GP professionals. Finally the principal of test enhanced learning was optimised. Epilogue: We have provided this example explain the design decisions behind our program, but not want to present our program as the solution to any given situation.

  2. The Gateway Science Workshop Program: Enhancing Student Performance and Retention in the Sciences Through Peer-Facilitated Discussion

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Drane, Denise; Smith, H. David; Light, Greg; Pinto, Larry; Swarat, Su

    2005-09-01

    Minority student attrition and underachievement is a long-standing and widespread concern in higher education. It is especially acute in introductory science courses which are prerequisites for students planning to pursue science-related careers. Poor performance in these courses often results in attrition of minorities from the science fields. This is a particular concern at selective universities where minority students enter with excellent academic credentials but receive lower average grades and have lower retention rates than majority students with similar credentials. This paper reports the first year results of a large scale peer-facilitated workshop program designed to increase performance and retention in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics at a selective research university. After adjusting for grade point average or SAT-Math score, workshop participants earned higher final grades than nonparticipants in Biology and Chemistry, but not in Physics. Similar effects on retention were found. While, positive effects of the program were observed in both majority and minority students, effect sizes were generally largest for minority students. Because of practical constraints in Physics, implementation of the program was not optimal, possibly accounting for the differential success of the program across disciplines.

  3. Developing a university-workforce partnership to address rural and frontier MCH training needs: the Rocky Mountain Public Health Education Consortium (RMPHEC).

    PubMed

    Taren, Douglas L; Varela, Frances; Dotson, Jo Ann W; Eden, Joan; Egger, Marlene; Harper, John; Johnson, Rhonda; Kennedy, Kathy; Kent, Helene; Muramoto, Myra; Peacock, Jane C; Roberts, Richard; Sjolander, Sheila; Streeter, Nan; Velarde, Lily; Hill, Anne

    2011-10-01

    The objective of the article is to provide the socio-cultural, political, economic, and geographic conditions that justified a regional effort for training maternal and child health (MCH) professionals in the Rocky Mountain region, describe a historical account of factors that led to the development of the Rocky Mountain Public Health Education Consortium (RMPHEC), and present RMPHEC as a replicable model developed to enhance practice/academic partnerships among state, tribal, and public health agencies and universities to enhance public health capacity and MCH outcomes. This article provides a description of the development of the RMPHEC, the impetus that drove the Consortium's development, the process used to create it, and its management and programs. Beginning in 1997, local, regional, and federal efforts encouraged stronger MCH training and continuing education in the Rocky Mountain Region. By 1998, the RMPHEC was established to respond to the growing needs of MCH professionals in the region by enhancing workforce development through various programs, including the MCH Certificate Program, MCH Institutes, and distance learning products as well as establishing a place for professionals and MCH agencies to discuss new ideas and opportunities for the region. Finally over the last decade local, state, regional, and federal efforts have encouraged a synergy of MCH resources, opportunities, and training within the region because of the health disparities among MCH populations in the region. The RMPHEC was founded to provide training and continuing education to MCH professionals in the region and as a venue to bring regional MCH organizations together to discuss current opportunities and challenges. RMPHEC is a consortium model that can be replicated in other underserved regions, looking to strengthen MCH training and continuing education.

  4. A faculty development course to enhance dental hygiene distance education: a pilot study.

    PubMed

    Johnstone-Dodge, Vicki; Bowen, Denise M; Calley, Kristin H; Peterson, Teri S

    2014-09-01

    This article describes the implementation and evaluation of a dental hygiene faculty development course to enhance online teaching practices that foster a sense of community and satisfaction. The sampled population was drawn from the forty-seven U.S. dental hygiene programs that the American Dental Hygienists' Association identified as offering bachelor's degree completion or master's degree programs with 76-100 percent of coursework delivered in an online format. This requirement was applied to exclude programs using hybrid instruction (combination of online and face-to-face). Of the thirty-four faculty members who self-identified as meeting the criteria, seven agreed to participate (21 percent response rate); however, only five completed all parts of the study (a final response rate of 15 percent). A Community of Inquiry framework was the basis for the author-designed Distance Education Best Practices Survey used as a pretest and posttest to assess participants' use of and perceived importance of twenty-five best practices before and after taking the online faculty development course. Frequency of use ratings ranged from 4.0 (regularly) to 5.0 (always) on a response scale from 1.0 to 5.0. The results showed significant increases from before to after the course in participants' perceptions of the importance of four practices: activities promoting relevant, lifelong learning (p=0.03); faculty communication fostering a sense of community (p=0.04); encouraging students' self-introduction (p=0.04); and encouraging productive dialogue and respecting diverse opinions (p=0.04). The findings indicate a potential value for a faculty development course designed to enhance online teaching, sense of community, and satisfaction, even for faculty members with high self-ratings regarding best practices.

  5. Peer learning a pedagogical approach to enhance online learning: A qualitative exploration.

    PubMed

    Raymond, Anita; Jacob, Elisabeth; Jacob, Darren; Lyons, Judith

    2016-09-01

    Flexible online programs are becoming increasingly popular method of education for students, allowing them to complete programs in their own time and cater for lifestyle differences. A mixture of delivery modes is one way which allows for enhanced learning. Peer learning is another method of learning which is shown to foster collaboration and prepare healthcare students for their future careers. This paper reports on a project to combine peer and online learning to teach pharmacology to nursing students. To explore undergraduate nursing student opinions of working in peer groups for online learning sessions in a pharmacology course. A qualitative study utilising a self-reported questionnaire. A rural campus of an Australian university. Second year nursing students enrolled in a Bachelor of Nursing Program. A hard copy questionnaire was distributed to all students who attended the final semester lecture for the course. Content analysis of open-ended survey questions was used to identify themes in the written data. Of the 61 students enrolled in the nursing subject, 35 students chose to complete the survey (57%). Students reported a mixed view of the benefits and disadvantages of peer online learning. Sixty 6% (66%) of students liked peer online learning, whilst 29% disliked it and 6% were undecided. Convenience and ease of completion were reported as the most common reason to like peer online learning, whilst Information Technology issues, communication and non-preferred learning method were reasons for not liking peer online learning. Peer online learning groups' acted as one further method to facilitate student learning experiences. Blending peer online learning with traditional face-to-face learning increases the variety of learning methods available to students to enhance their overall learning experience. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. Medicare Program; Prospective Payment System and Consolidated Billing for Skilled Nursing Facilities for FY 2017, SNF Value-Based Purchasing Program, SNF Quality Reporting Program, and SNF Payment Models Research. Final rule.

    PubMed

    2016-08-05

    This final rule updates the payment rates used under the prospective payment system (PPS) for skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) for fiscal year (FY) 2017. In addition, it specifies a potentially preventable readmission measure for the Skilled Nursing Facility Value-Based Purchasing Program (SNF VBP), and implements requirements for that program, including performance standards, a scoring methodology, and a review and correction process for performance information to be made public, aimed at implementing value-based purchasing for SNFs. Additionally, this final rule includes additional polices and measures in the Skilled Nursing Facility Quality Reporting Program (SNF QRP). This final rule also responds to comments on the SNF Payment Models Research (PMR) project.

  7. Genetic Network Programming with Reconstructed Individuals

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ye, Fengming; Mabu, Shingo; Wang, Lutao; Eto, Shinji; Hirasawa, Kotaro

    A lot of research on evolutionary computation has been done and some significant classical methods such as Genetic Algorithm (GA), Genetic Programming (GP), Evolutionary Programming (EP), and Evolution Strategies (ES) have been studied. Recently, a new approach named Genetic Network Programming (GNP) has been proposed. GNP can evolve itself and find the optimal solution. It is based on the idea of Genetic Algorithm and uses the data structure of directed graphs. Many papers have demonstrated that GNP can deal with complex problems in the dynamic environments very efficiently and effectively. As a result, recently, GNP is getting more and more attentions and is used in many different areas such as data mining, extracting trading rules of stock markets, elevator supervised control systems, etc., and GNP has obtained some outstanding results. Focusing on the GNP's distinguished expression ability of the graph structure, this paper proposes a method named Genetic Network Programming with Reconstructed Individuals (GNP-RI). The aim of GNP-RI is to balance the exploitation and exploration of GNP, that is, to strengthen the exploitation ability by using the exploited information extensively during the evolution process of GNP and finally obtain better performances than that of GNP. In the proposed method, the worse individuals are reconstructed and enhanced by the elite information before undergoing genetic operations (mutation and crossover). The enhancement of worse individuals mimics the maturing phenomenon in nature, where bad individuals can become smarter after receiving a good education. In this paper, GNP-RI is applied to the tile-world problem which is an excellent bench mark for evaluating the proposed architecture. The performance of GNP-RI is compared with that of the conventional GNP. The simulation results show some advantages of GNP-RI demonstrating its superiority over the conventional GNPs.

  8. Early Intervention Preservice Preparation: Program Evaluation and Reflections. Master's Personnel Prep Program. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bricker, Diane; Squires, Jane

    This final report discusses the activities and outcomes of the early intervention interdisciplinary preservice program at the University of Oregon. This master's degree program used both "measurement of" and "reflection about" preservice efforts to address important questions regarding program effectiveness and identify…

  9. Youth sport as a component of organized afterschool programs.

    PubMed

    Coatsworth, J Douglas; Conroy, David E

    2007-01-01

    Organized afterschool programs have received increased attention over the past two decades because of changes in family demographics and in society's structures for supervising and socializing youth. The number of afterschool programs has been rapidly expanding to meet the increased need. However, not all youth in need are being reached, and the programs that are being created are loosely connected. The authors present several advantages of more fully integrating sport and afterschool activities. There are well-documented positive effects of physical activity and sports participation on physical and psychosocial youth outcomes, especially if those programs are implemented with these points in mind. Promoting healthy lifestyles and preventing obesity are also important federal- and state-level policy priorities. Finally, physical activity and fitness and sport participation are linked with improved cognitive functioning and greater academic achievement, two desired outcomes of many afterschool programs. The authors note, however, that many youth sports programs designed to enhance positive youth development will not succeed without more attention focused on improving them, because they do not use best practices and principles of afterschool and youth sports programs. The authors focus on best practice ideas in four areas that are essential to the successful intersection of youth sport and afterschool programming: setting a clear mission, programming with appropriate content, staff training, and research and evaluation or frequent assessments. They illustrate best practices in each of these areas using program descriptions and provide recommendations for strengthening the connections among afterschool programs, sports, and physical activity.

  10. Optimizing the Shunting Schedule of Electric Multiple Units Depot Using an Enhanced Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm

    PubMed Central

    Jin, Junchen

    2016-01-01

    The shunting schedule of electric multiple units depot (SSED) is one of the essential plans for high-speed train maintenance activities. This paper presents a 0-1 programming model to address the problem of determining an optimal SSED through automatic computing. The objective of the model is to minimize the number of shunting movements and the constraints include track occupation conflicts, shunting routes conflicts, time durations of maintenance processes, and shunting running time. An enhanced particle swarm optimization (EPSO) algorithm is proposed to solve the optimization problem. Finally, an empirical study from Shanghai South EMU Depot is carried out to illustrate the model and EPSO algorithm. The optimization results indicate that the proposed method is valid for the SSED problem and that the EPSO algorithm outperforms the traditional PSO algorithm on the aspect of optimality. PMID:27436998

  11. Differential effects of acute and regular physical exercise on cognition and affect.

    PubMed

    Hopkins, M E; Davis, F C; Vantieghem, M R; Whalen, P J; Bucci, D J

    2012-07-26

    The effects of regular exercise versus a single bout of exercise on cognition, anxiety, and mood were systematically examined in healthy, sedentary young adults who were genotyped to determine brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) allelic status (i.e., Val-Val or Val66Met polymorphism). Participants were evaluated on novel object recognition (NOR) memory and a battery of mental health surveys before and after engaging in either (a) a 4-week exercise program, with exercise on the final test day, (b) a 4-week exercise program, without exercise on the final test day, (c) a single bout of exercise on the final test day, or (d) remaining sedentary between test days. Exercise enhanced object recognition memory and produced a beneficial decrease in perceived stress, but only in participants who exercised for 4 weeks including the final day of testing. In contrast, a single bout of exercise did not affect recognition memory and resulted in increased perceived stress levels. An additional novel finding was that the improvements on the NOR task were observed exclusively in participants who were homozygous for the BDNF Val allele, indicating that altered activity-dependent release of BDNF in Met allele carriers may attenuate the cognitive benefits of exercise. Importantly, exercise-induced changes in cognition were not correlated with changes in mood/anxiety, suggesting that separate neural systems mediate these effects. These data in humans mirror recent data from our group in rodents. Taken together, these current findings provide new insights into the behavioral and neural mechanisms that mediate the effects of physical exercise on memory and mental health in humans. Copyright © 2012 IBRO. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  12. USAF Summer Research Program - 1993 Graduate Student Research Program Final Reports, Volume 8, Phillips Laboratory

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1994-12-01

    Research Program Phillips Laboratory Kirtland Air Force Base Albuquerque, New Mexico Sponsored by: Air ...Summer Research Program Phillips Laboratory Sponsored by. Air Force Office of Scientific Research Kirtland Air Force Base, Albuquerque, New Mexico...UNITED STATES AIR FORCE SUMMER RESEARCH PROGRAM -- 1993 SUMMER RESEARCH PROGRAM FINAL REPORTS VOLUME 8

  13. Enhancing programming logic thinking using analogy mapping

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sukamto, R. A.; Megasari, R.

    2018-05-01

    Programming logic thinking is the most important competence for computer science students. However, programming is one of the difficult subject in computer science program. This paper reports our work about enhancing students' programming logic thinking using Analogy Mapping for basic programming subject. Analogy Mapping is a computer application which converts source code into analogies images. This research used time series evaluation and the result showed that Analogy Mapping can enhance students' programming logic thinking.

  14. National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program: Nutrition Standards for All Foods Sold in School as Required by the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010. Final rule and interim final rule.

    PubMed

    2016-07-29

    This rule adopts as final, with some modifications, the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program regulations set forth in the interim final rule published in the Federal Register on June 28, 2013. The requirements addressed in this rule conform to the provisions in the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 regarding nutrition standards for all foods sold in schools, other than food sold under the lunch and breakfast programs. Most provisions of this final rule were implemented on July 1, 2014, a full year subsequent to publication of the interim final rule. This was in compliance with section 208 of the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010, which required that State and local educational agencies have at least one full school year from the date of publication of the interim final rule to implement the competitive food provisions. Based on comments received on the interim final rule and implementation experience, this final rule makes a few modifications to the nutrition standards for all foods sold in schools implemented on July 1, 2014. In addition, this final rule codifies specific policy guidance issued after publication of the interim rule. Finally, this rule retains the provision related to the standard for total fat as interim and requests further comment on this single standard.

  15. 76 FR 64085 - Post-2014 Resource Pool-Loveland Area Projects, Final Power Allocation

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-10-17

    ... power allocation. SUMMARY: The Western Area Power Administration (Western), a Federal power marketing..., Final Power Allocation developed under the requirements of subpart C-Power Marketing Initiative of the Energy Planning and Management Program (Program) Final Rule, 10 CFR part 905. These final power...

  16. 78 FR 60169 - Federal Acquisition Regulation; Pilot Program for Enhancement of Contractor Employee...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-09-30

    ... 9000-AM56 Federal Acquisition Regulation; Pilot Program for Enhancement of Contractor Employee... program enhancing whistleblower protections for contractor employees. DATES: Effective: September 30, 2013... contractor employees at FAR subpart 3.9. The pilot program is mandated by section 828, entitled ``Pilot...

  17. UPEML Version 3.0: A machine-portable CDC update emulator

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

    Mehlhorn, T.A.; Haill, T.A.

    1992-04-01

    UPEML is a machine-portable program that emulates a subset of the functions of the standard CDC Update. Machine-portability has been achieved by conforming to ANSI standards for Fortran-77. UPEML is compact and fairly efficient; however, it only allows a restricted syntax as compared with the CDC Update. This program was written primarily to facilitate the use of CDC-based scientific packages on alternate computer systems such as the VAX/VMS mainframes and UNIX workstations. UPEML has also been successfully used on the multiprocessor ELXSI, on CRAYs under both UNICOS and CTSS operating systems, and on Sun, HP, Stardent and IBM workstations. UPEMLmore » was originally released with the ITS electron/photon Monte Carlo transport package, which was developed on a CDC-7600 and makes extensive use of conditional file structure to combine several problem geometry and machine options into a single program file. UPEML 3.0 is an enhanced version of the original code and is being independently released for use at any installation or with any code package. Version 3.0 includes enhanced error checking, full ASCII character support, a program library audit capability, and a partial update option in which only selected or modified decks are written to the complete file. Version 3.0 also checks for overlapping corrections, allows processing of pested calls to common decks, and allows the use of alternate files in READ and ADDFILE commands. Finally, UPEML Version 3.0 allows the assignment of input and output files at runtime on the control line.« less

  18. UPEML Version 3. 0: A machine-portable CDC update emulator

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

    Mehlhorn, T.A.; Haill, T.A.

    1992-04-01

    UPEML is a machine-portable program that emulates a subset of the functions of the standard CDC Update. Machine-portability has been achieved by conforming to ANSI standards for Fortran-77. UPEML is compact and fairly efficient; however, it only allows a restricted syntax as compared with the CDC Update. This program was written primarily to facilitate the use of CDC-based scientific packages on alternate computer systems such as the VAX/VMS mainframes and UNIX workstations. UPEML has also been successfully used on the multiprocessor ELXSI, on CRAYs under both UNICOS and CTSS operating systems, and on Sun, HP, Stardent and IBM workstations. UPEMLmore » was originally released with the ITS electron/photon Monte Carlo transport package, which was developed on a CDC-7600 and makes extensive use of conditional file structure to combine several problem geometry and machine options into a single program file. UPEML 3.0 is an enhanced version of the original code and is being independently released for use at any installation or with any code package. Version 3.0 includes enhanced error checking, full ASCII character support, a program library audit capability, and a partial update option in which only selected or modified decks are written to the complete file. Version 3.0 also checks for overlapping corrections, allows processing of pested calls to common decks, and allows the use of alternate files in READ and ADDFILE commands. Finally, UPEML Version 3.0 allows the assignment of input and output files at runtime on the control line.« less

  19. BSM Delta qualification 2, volume 1

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1994-01-01

    This report, presented in three volumes, provides the results of a two-motor Delta Qualification 2 program conducted in 1993 to certify the following enhancements for incorporation into Booster Separation Motor (BSM) flight hardware: (1) vulcanized-in-place nozzle aft closure insulation; (2) new isostatic ATJ bulk graphite throat insert material; (3) adhesive EA 9394 for bonding the nozzle throat, igniter grain rod/centering insert/igniter case; (4) deletion of the igniter adapter insulator ring; (5) deletion of igniter adapter/igniter case interface RTV; and (6) deletion of Loctite from igniter retainer plate threads. The enhancements above directly resulted from (1) the BSM Total Quality Management (TQM) Team initiatives to enhance the BSM producibility, and (2) the necessity to qualify new throat insert and adhesive systems to replace existing materials that will not be available. Testing was completed at both the component and motor levels. Component testing was accomplished to screen candidate materials (e.g., throat materials, adhesive systems) and to optimize processes (e.g., aft closure insulator vulcanization approach) prior to their incorporation into the test motors. Motor testing - consisting of two motors, randomly selected by USBI's onsite quality personnel from production lot AAY, which were modified to accept the enhancements - were completed to provide the final qualification of the enhancements for incorporation into flight hardware. It is concluded that all of the enhancements herein tested are qualified to be incorporated into flight hardware for the BSM.

  20. The use of art and music therapy in substance abuse treatment programs.

    PubMed

    Aletraris, Lydia; Paino, Maria; Edmond, Mary Bond; Roman, Paul M; Bride, Brian E

    2014-01-01

    Although the implementation of evidence-based practices in the treatment of substance use disorders has attracted substantial research attention, little consideration has been given to parallel implementation of complementary and alternative medical (CAM) practices. Using data from a nationally representative sample (N = 299) of U.S. substance abuse treatment programs, this study modeled organizational factors falling in the domains of patient characteristics, treatment ideologies, and structural characteristics, associated with the use of art therapy and music therapy. We found that 36.8% of treatment programs offered art therapy and 14.7% of programs offered music therapy. Programs with a greater proportion of women were more likely to use both therapies, and programs with larger proportions of adolescents were more likely to offer music therapy. In terms of other treatment ideologies, programs' use of Motivational Enhancement Therapy was positively related to offering art therapy, whereas use of contingency management was positively associated with offering music therapy. Finally, our findings showed a significant relationship between requiring 12-step meetings and the use of both art therapy and music therapy. With increasing use of CAM in a diverse range of medical settings and recent federal legislation likely to reduce barriers in accessing CAM, the inclusion of CAM in addiction treatment is growing in importance. Our findings suggest treatment programs may be utilizing art and music therapies to address unique patient needs of women and adolescents.

  1. The Enhancement Seminar Model as a Strategy to Promote Diversity and Student Success in MSW Programs

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Watson, Larry D.; Rycraft, Joan R.

    2010-01-01

    This study evaluates the effectiveness of an enhancement program by examining a cohort of 57 students admitted on probationary status to an MSW program in 2002 and required to participate in the enhancement program. The demographics for students admitted on probation demonstrate that the program is effective in increasing the diversity of the…

  2. 76 FR 43571 - Small Business HUBZone Program; Government Contracting Programs

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-07-21

    ... SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION 13 CFR Part 126 RIN 3245-AG45 Small Business HUBZone Program; Government Contracting Programs AGENCY: U.S. Small Business Administration. ACTION: Interim final rule with request for comments. SUMMARY: This interim final rule amends the U.S. Small Business Administration's...

  3. 76 FR 6594 - North Carolina: Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program Revisions

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-02-07

    ... Carolina: Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program Revisions AGENCY: Environmental... authorization of the changes to its hazardous waste program under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act... Section, RCRA Programs and Materials Management Branch, RCRA Division, U.S. Environmental Protection...

  4. 77 FR 60919 - Tennessee: Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program Revisions

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-10-05

    ...: Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program Revisions AGENCY: Environmental..., Division of Solid Waste Management, 5th Floor, L & C Tower, 401 Church Street, Nashville, Tennessee 37243... RCRA hazardous waste management program. We granted authorization for changes to Tennessee's program on...

  5. The NASA thermionic-conversion (TEC-ART) program

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Morris, J. F.

    1977-01-01

    The current emphasis is on out-of-core thermionic conversion (TEC). The additional degrees of freedom offer new potentialities, but high-temperature material effects determine the level and lifetime of TEC performance: New electrodes not only raise power outputs but also maintain them regardless of emitter-vapor deposition on collectors. In addition, effective electrodes serve compatibly with hot-shell alloys. Space TEC withstands external and internal high-temperature vaporization problems, and terrestrial TEC tolerates hot corrosive atmospheres outside and near-vacuum inside. Finally, reduction of losses between converter electrodes is essential even though rather demanding geometries appear to be required for some modes of enhanced operation.

  6. AUVA - Augmented Reality Empowers Visual Analytics to explore Medical Curriculum Data.

    PubMed

    Nifakos, Sokratis; Vaitsis, Christos; Zary, Nabil

    2015-01-01

    Medical curriculum data play a key role in the structure and the organization of medical programs in Universities around the world. The effective processing and usage of these data may improve the educational environment of medical students. As a consequence, the new generation of health professionals would have improved skills from the previous ones. This study introduces the process of enhancing curriculum data by the use of augmented reality technology as a management and presentation tool. The final goal is to enrich the information presented from a visual analytics approach applied on medical curriculum data and to sustain low levels of complexity of understanding these data.

  7. United States Air Force Summer Research Program -- 1993. Volume 8. Phillips Laboratory

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1993-12-01

    Research Program Phillips Laboratory Kirtland Air Force Base Albuquerque. New Mexico Sponsored by...Best Available Copy UNITED STATES AIR FORCE SUMMER RESEARCH PROGRAM -- 1993 SUMMER RESEARCH PROGRAM FINAL REPORTS VOLUME 8 PHILLIPS LABORATORY ...Alabama Box 870344 Tuscaloosa, AL 35487-0344 Final Report for: Graduate Student Research Program Phillips Laboratory , Hanscom AFB Sponsored by: Air

  8. Biomedical and Human Factors Requirements for a Manned Earth Orbiting Station

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Helvey, W.; Martell, C.; Peters, J.; Rosenthal, G.; Benjamin, F.; Albright, G.

    1964-01-01

    The primary objective of this study is to determine which biomedical and human factors measurements must be made aboard a space station to assure adequate evaluation of the astronaut's health and performance during prolonged space flights. The study has employed, where possible, a medical and engineering systems analysis to define the pertinent life sciences and space station design parameters and their influence on a measurement program. The major areas requiring evaluation in meeting the study objectives include a definition of the space environment, man's response to the environment, selection of measurement and data management techniques, experimental program, space station design requirements, and a trade-off analysis with final recommendations. The space environment factors that are believed to have a significant effect on man were evaluated. This includes those factors characteristic of the space environment (e. g. weightlessness, radiation) as well as those created within the space station (e. g. toxic contaminants, capsule atmosphere). After establishing the general features of the environment, an appraisal was made of the anticipated response of the astronaut to each of these factors. For thoroughness, the major organ systems and functions of the body were delineated, and a determination was made of their anticipated response to each of the environmental categories. A judgment was then made on the medical significance or importance of each response, which enabled a determination of which physiological and psychological effects should be monitored. Concurrently, an extensive list of measurement techniques and methods of data management was evaluated for applicability to the space station program. The various space station configurations and design parameters were defined in terms of the biomedical and human factors requirements to provide the measurements program. Research design of experimental programs for various station configurations, mission durations, and crew sizes were prepared, and, finally, a trade-off analysis of the critical variables in the station planning was completed with recommendations to enhance the confidence in the measurement program.

  9. A trial of e-simulation of sudden patient deterioration (FIRST2ACT WEB) on student learning.

    PubMed

    Bogossian, Fiona E; Cooper, Simon J; Cant, Robyn; Porter, Joanne; Forbes, Helen

    2015-10-01

    High-fidelity simulation pedagogy is of increasing importance in health professional education; however, face-to-face simulation programs are resource intensive and impractical to implement across large numbers of students. To investigate undergraduate nursing students' theoretical and applied learning in response to the e-simulation program-FIRST2ACT WEBTM, and explore predictors of virtual clinical performance. Multi-center trial of FIRST2ACT WEBTM accessible to students in five Australian universities and colleges, across 8 campuses. A population of 489 final-year nursing students in programs of study leading to license to practice. Participants proceeded through three phases: (i) pre-simulation-briefing and assessment of clinical knowledge and experience; (ii) e-simulation-three interactive e-simulation clinical scenarios which included video recordings of patients with deteriorating conditions, interactive clinical tasks, pop up responses to tasks, and timed performance; and (iii) post-simulation feedback and evaluation. Descriptive statistics were followed by bivariate analysis to detect any associations, which were further tested using standard regression analysis. Of 409 students who commenced the program (83% response rate), 367 undergraduate nursing students completed the web-based program in its entirety, yielding a completion rate of 89.7%; 38.1% of students achieved passing clinical performance across three scenarios, and the proportion achieving passing clinical knowledge increased from 78.15% pre-simulation to 91.6% post-simulation. Knowledge was the main independent predictor of clinical performance in responding to a virtual deteriorating patient R(2)=0.090, F(7, 352)=4.962, p<0.001. The use of web-based technology allows simulation activities to be accessible to a large number of participants and completion rates indicate that 'Net Generation' nursing students were highly engaged with this mode of learning. The web-based e-simulation program FIRST2ACTTM effectively enhanced knowledge, virtual clinical performance, and self-assessed knowledge, skills, confidence, and competence in final-year nursing students. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  10. The on-site quality-assurance system for Hyper Suprime-Cam: OSQAH

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Furusawa, Hisanori; Koike, Michitaro; Takata, Tadafumi; Okura, Yuki; Miyatake, Hironao; Lupton, Robert H.; Bickerton, Steven; Price, Paul A.; Bosch, James; Yasuda, Naoki; Mineo, Sogo; Yamada, Yoshihiko; Miyazaki, Satoshi; Nakata, Fumiaki; Koshida, Shintaro; Komiyama, Yutaka; Utsumi, Yousuke; Kawanomoto, Satoshi; Jeschke, Eric; Noumaru, Junichi; Schubert, Kiaina; Iwata, Ikuru; Finet, Francois; Fujiyoshi, Takuya; Tajitsu, Akito; Terai, Tsuyoshi; Lee, Chien-Hsiu

    2018-01-01

    We have developed an automated quick data analysis system for data quality assurance (QA) for Hyper Suprime-Cam (HSC). The system was commissioned in 2012-2014, and has been offered for general observations, including the HSC Subaru Strategic Program, since 2014 March. The system provides observers with data quality information, such as seeing, sky background level, and sky transparency, based on quick analysis as data are acquired. Quick-look images and validation of image focus are also provided through an interactive web application. The system is responsible for the automatic extraction of QA information from acquired raw data into a database, to assist with observation planning, assess progress of all observing programs, and monitor long-term efficiency variations of the instrument and telescope. Enhancements of the system are being planned to facilitate final data analysis, to improve the HSC archive, and to provide legacy products for astronomical communities.

  11. Expendable launch vehicle transportation for the space station

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Corban, Robert R.

    1988-01-01

    Logistics transportation will be a critical element in determining the Space Station Freedom's level of productivity and possible evolutionary options. The current program utilizes the Space Shuttle as the only logistics support vehicle. Augmentation of the total transportation capability by expendable launch vehicles (ELVs) may be required to meet demanding requirements and provide for enhanced manifest flexibility. The total operational concept from ground operations to final return of support hardware or its disposal is required to determine the ELV's benefits and impacts to the Space Station Freedom program. The characteristics of potential medium and large class ELVs planned to be available in the mid-1990's (both U.S. and international partners' vehicles) indicate a significant range of possible transportation systems with varying degrees of operational support capabilities. The options available for development of a support infrastructure in terms of launch vehicles, logistics carriers, transfer vehicles, and return systems is discussed.

  12. The Merits and Challenges of Three-Year Medical School Curricula: Time for an Evidence-Based Discussion

    PubMed Central

    Raymond, John R.; Kerschner, Joseph E.; Hueston, William J.

    2015-01-01

    The debate about three-year medical school curricula has resurfaced recently, driven by rising education debt burden and a predicted physician shortage. In this Perspective, the authors call for an evidence-based discussion of the merits and challenges of three-year curricula. They examine published evidence that suggests that three-year curricula are viable, including studies on three-year curricula in (1) U.S. medical schools in the 1970s and 1980s, (2) two Canadian medical schools with more than four decades of experience with such curricula, and (3) accelerated family medicine and internal medicine programs. They also briefly describe the new three-year programs that are being implemented at eight U.S. medical schools, including their own. Finally, they offer suggestions regarding how to enhance the discussion between the proponents of and those with concerns about three-year curricula. PMID:26266464

  13. Medicare Program; Revisions to Payment Policies Under the Physician Fee Schedule and Other Revisions to Part B for CY 2018; Medicare Shared Savings Program Requirements; and Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program. Final rule.

    PubMed

    2017-11-15

    This major final rule addresses changes to the Medicare physician fee schedule (PFS) and other Medicare Part B payment policies such as changes to the Medicare Shared Savings Program, to ensure that our payment systems are updated to reflect changes in medical practice and the relative value of services, as well as changes in the statute. In addition, this final rule includes policies necessary to begin offering the expanded Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program model.

  14. 40 CFR Appendix C to Part 97 - Final Section 126 Rule: Trading Budget

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 21 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Final Section 126 Rule: Trading Budget... PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) FEDERAL NOX BUDGET TRADING PROGRAM AND CAIR NOX AND SO2 TRADING PROGRAMS Pt. 97, App. C Appendix C to Part 97—Final Section 126 Rule: Trading Budget ST F126-EGU F126-NEGU Total DC 207 26...

  15. 40 CFR Appendix C to Part 97 - Final Section 126 Rule: Trading Budget

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 21 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Final Section 126 Rule: Trading Budget... PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) FEDERAL NOX BUDGET TRADING PROGRAM AND CAIR NOX AND SO2 TRADING PROGRAMS Pt. 97, App. C Appendix C to Part 97—Final Section 126 Rule: Trading Budget ST F126-EGU F126-NEGU Total DC 207 26...

  16. 40 CFR Appendix C to Part 97 - Final Section 126 Rule: Trading Budget

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 22 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Final Section 126 Rule: Trading Budget... PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) FEDERAL NOX BUDGET TRADING PROGRAM AND CAIR NOX AND SO2 TRADING PROGRAMS Pt. 97, App. C Appendix C to Part 97—Final Section 126 Rule: Trading Budget ST F126-EGU F126-NEGU Total DC 207 26...

  17. 40 CFR Appendix C to Part 97 - Final Section 126 Rule: Trading Budget

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 22 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Final Section 126 Rule: Trading Budget... PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) FEDERAL NOX BUDGET TRADING PROGRAM AND CAIR NOX AND SO2 TRADING PROGRAMS Pt. 97, App. C Appendix C to Part 97—Final Section 126 Rule: Trading Budget ST F126-EGU F126-NEGU Total DC 207 26...

  18. 40 CFR 272.1201 - Minnesota State-administered program; Final authorization.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 28 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Minnesota State-administered program... (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES (CONTINUED) APPROVED STATE HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS Minnesota § 272.1201 Minnesota State-administered program; Final authorization. Pursuant to section 3006(b) of RCRA, 42 U.S.C...

  19. 40 CFR 272.1201 - Minnesota State-administered program; Final authorization.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 28 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Minnesota State-administered program... (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES (CONTINUED) APPROVED STATE HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS Minnesota § 272.1201 Minnesota State-administered program; Final authorization. Pursuant to section 3006(b) of RCRA, 42 U.S.C...

  20. 40 CFR 272.1201 - Minnesota State-administered program; Final authorization.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 27 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Minnesota State-administered program... (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES (CONTINUED) APPROVED STATE HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS Minnesota § 272.1201 Minnesota State-administered program; Final authorization. Pursuant to section 3006(b) of RCRA, 42 U.S.C...

  1. 40 CFR 272.1201 - Minnesota State-administered program; Final authorization.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 27 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Minnesota State-administered program... (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES (CONTINUED) APPROVED STATE HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS Minnesota § 272.1201 Minnesota State-administered program; Final authorization. Pursuant to section 3006(b) of RCRA, 42 U.S.C...

  2. 40 CFR 272.1651 - New York State-Administered Program: final authorization.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 26 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false New York State-Administered Program... (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES (CONTINUED) APPROVED STATE HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS New York § 272.1651 New York State-Administered Program: final authorization. (a) Pursuant to section 3006(b) of RCRA, 42...

  3. Final Evaluation Report. 1976-1977. Title I Migrant Program. Publication Number: 76.59.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Austin Independent School District, TX. Office of Research and Evaluation.

    The final evaluation of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act Title I Migrant Program in the Austin, Texas Independent School District is reported. The program consisted of instructional, student recruitment, parental involvement, health services, and clothing components. The instructional component included programs for pre-kindergarten…

  4. The Impact of Prior Programming Knowledge on Lecture Attendance and Final Exam

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Veerasamy, Ashok Kumar; D'Souza, Daryl; Lindén, Rolf; Laakso, Mikko-Jussi

    2018-01-01

    In this article, we report the results of the impact of prior programming knowledge (PPK) on lecture attendance (LA) and on subsequent final programming exam performance in a university level introductory programming course. This study used Spearman's rank correlation coefficient, multiple regression, Kruskal-Wallis, and Bonferroni correction…

  5. 40 CFR 272.1601 - New Mexico State-Administered Program: Final Authorization.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 28 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false New Mexico State-Administered Program... (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES (CONTINUED) APPROVED STATE HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS New Mexico § 272.1601 New Mexico State-Administered Program: Final Authorization. (a) Pursuant to section 3006(b) of RCRA...

  6. 40 CFR 272.1601 - New Mexico State-Administered Program: Final Authorization.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 27 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false New Mexico State-Administered Program... (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES (CONTINUED) APPROVED STATE HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS New Mexico § 272.1601 New Mexico State-Administered Program: Final Authorization. (a) Pursuant to section 3006(b) of RCRA...

  7. 40 CFR 272.1601 - New Mexico State-Administered Program: Final Authorization.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 27 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false New Mexico State-Administered Program... (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES (CONTINUED) APPROVED STATE HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS New Mexico § 272.1601 New Mexico State-Administered Program: Final Authorization. (a) Pursuant to section 3006(b) of RCRA...

  8. 40 CFR 272.1601 - New Mexico State-Administered Program: Final Authorization.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 28 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false New Mexico State-Administered Program... (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES (CONTINUED) APPROVED STATE HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS New Mexico § 272.1601 New Mexico State-Administered Program: Final Authorization. (a) Pursuant to section 3006(b) of RCRA...

  9. 40 CFR 272.2501 - Wisconsin State-administered program: Final authorization.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 28 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Wisconsin State-administered program... (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES (CONTINUED) APPROVED STATE HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS Wisconsin § 272.2501 Wisconsin State-administered program: Final authorization. (a) Pursuant to section 3006(b) of RCRA, 42 U.S.C...

  10. 40 CFR 272.2501 - Wisconsin State-administered program; final authorization.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 27 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Wisconsin State-administered program... (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES (CONTINUED) APPROVED STATE HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS Wisconsin § 272.2501 Wisconsin State-administered program; final authorization. Pursuant to section 3006(b) of RCRA, 42 U.S.C...

  11. 40 CFR 272.2501 - Wisconsin State-administered program: Final authorization.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 27 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Wisconsin State-administered program... (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES (CONTINUED) APPROVED STATE HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS Wisconsin § 272.2501 Wisconsin State-administered program: Final authorization. (a) Pursuant to section 3006(b) of RCRA, 42 U.S.C...

  12. 40 CFR 272.2501 - Wisconsin State-administered program: Final authorization.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 28 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Wisconsin State-administered program... (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES (CONTINUED) APPROVED STATE HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS Wisconsin § 272.2501 Wisconsin State-administered program: Final authorization. (a) Pursuant to section 3006(b) of RCRA, 42 U.S.C...

  13. Environmental Assessment for Developing Renewable Energy Enhanced Use Lease Facilities at Robins Air Force Base

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2013-12-15

    Blufftown is underlain by igneous and metamorphic rocks which are equivalent to those of the Georgia Piedmont. Potable and process waters are produced...Final Environmental Assessment for Developing Renewable Energy Enhanced Use Lease Facilities at Robins Air Force Base...TITLE AND SUBTITLE Final Environmental Assessment for Developing Renewable Energy Enhanced Use Lease Facilities at Robins Air Force Base 5a. CONTRACT

  14. Medicare Program; FY 2017 Hospice Wage Index and Payment Rate Update and Hospice Quality Reporting Requirements. Final rule.

    PubMed

    2016-08-05

    This final rule will update the hospice wage index, payment rates, and cap amount for fiscal year (FY) 2017. In addition, this rule changes the hospice quality reporting program, including adopting new quality measures. Finally, this final rule includes information regarding the Medicare Care Choices Model (MCCM).

  15. MEGAnnotator: a user-friendly pipeline for microbial genomes assembly and annotation.

    PubMed

    Lugli, Gabriele Andrea; Milani, Christian; Mancabelli, Leonardo; van Sinderen, Douwe; Ventura, Marco

    2016-04-01

    Genome annotation is one of the key actions that must be undertaken in order to decipher the genetic blueprint of organisms. Thus, a correct and reliable annotation is essential in rendering genomic data valuable. Here, we describe a bioinformatics pipeline based on freely available software programs coordinated by a multithreaded script named MEGAnnotator (Multithreaded Enhanced prokaryotic Genome Annotator). This pipeline allows the generation of multiple annotated formats fulfilling the NCBI guidelines for assembled microbial genome submission, based on DNA shotgun sequencing reads, and minimizes manual intervention, while also reducing waiting times between software program executions and improving final quality of both assembly and annotation outputs. MEGAnnotator provides an efficient way to pre-arrange the assembly and annotation work required to process NGS genome sequence data. The script improves the final quality of microbial genome annotation by reducing ambiguous annotations. Moreover, the MEGAnnotator platform allows the user to perform a partial annotation of pre-assembled genomes and includes an option to accomplish metagenomic data set assemblies. MEGAnnotator platform will be useful for microbiologists interested in genome analyses of bacteria as well as those investigating the complexity of microbial communities that do not possess the necessary skills to prepare their own bioinformatics pipeline. © FEMS 2016. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  16. Medicaid/CHIP Program; Medicaid Program and Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP); Changes to the Medicaid Eligibility Quality Control and Payment Error Rate Measurement Programs in Response to the Affordable Care Act. Final rule.

    PubMed

    2017-07-05

    This final rule updates the Medicaid Eligibility Quality Control (MEQC) and Payment Error Rate Measurement (PERM) programs based on the changes to Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) eligibility under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. This rule also implements various other improvements to the PERM program.

  17. An Evaluation of Parent-Child Interaction Therapy With and Without Motivational Enhancement to Reduce Attrition.

    PubMed

    Webb, Haley J; Thomas, Rae; McGregor, Leanne; Avdagic, Elbina; Zimmer-Gembeck, Melanie J

    2017-01-01

    Although many interventions for child externalizing behavior report promising outcomes for families, high attrition prior to program completion remains a problem. Many programs report dropout rates of 50% or higher. In this trial we sought to reduce attrition and improve outcomes by augmenting a well-known evidence-based intervention, Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), with a 3-session individual motivational enhancement component. Participants were 192 Australian caregivers (91.7% female; M age  = 34.4 years) and their children (33.3% female; M age  = 4.4 years). Families (51% referred from child welfare or health services for risk of maltreatment) were assigned to PCIT or a supported waitlist, with families assigned to PCIT receiving either standard PCIT (S/PCIT) or motivation-enhanced PCIT (M/PCIT), depending on their time of entry to the study. Waitlist families received phone calls every week for 12 weeks. Parents in M/PCIT reported more readiness to change their behavior from preassessment to after the motivation sessions. Also, parents who reported high, rather than low, motivation at preassessment did have a lower attrition rate, and there was some evidence that enhancing motivation was protective of premature attrition to the extent that caregivers achieved a high degree of change in motivation. Yet comparison of attrition rates and survival analyses revealed no difference between M/PCIT and S/PCIT in retention rate. Finally, there were greater reductions in externalizing and internalizing child behavior problems and parental stress among families in S/PCIT and M/PCIT compared with waitlist, and there was generally no significant difference between the two treatment conditions.

  18. A review of interventions based on dietary diversification or modification strategies with the potential to enhance intakes of total and absorbable zinc.

    PubMed

    Gibson, Rosalind S; Anderson, Victoria P

    2009-03-01

    Dietary diversification or modification has the potential to prevent deficiencies of zinc and other coexisting limiting micronutrients simultaneously, without risk of antagonistic interactions. In this review, we have addressed the following. The first section focuses on strategies with the potential to enhance intake and/or bioavailability of zinc, and includes interventions (with and without nutrition education) based on agriculture, production or promotion of animal-source foods through animal husbandry or aquaculture, and commercial and household processing strategies to enhance zinc absorption. Outcome indicators include intakes of foods or nutrients (although rarely zinc) and, in some cases, zinc status, or zinc-related functional responses. The next two sections address whether dietary diversification or modification can achieve increases in absorbable zinc that are sufficient to enhance zinc status or zinc-related functional responses in breastfed infants and toddlers and in older children and women of reproductive age. Evidence for the impact of dietary diversification or modification on behavior change and on nutritional status in the short and long term, and the possible role of modifying factors (e.g., baseline nutritional status, socioeconomic status, infection, sex, age, and life-stage group) is the emphasis of the next section. The following section highlights the evidence for three potential adverse effects of dietary diversification or modification: aflatoxin contamination from germinated cereals, loss of water-soluble nutrients, and displacement of breastmilk. Finally, an example of a dietary diversification or modification program (Homestead Food Production) developed and implemented by Helen Keller International is given, together with the critical steps needed to scale up dietary diversification or modification for programs and future research needs.

  19. Federal Employees Health Benefits Program and Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program: eligibility for Pathway Programs participants. Interim final rule with request for comments.

    PubMed

    2014-01-06

    The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is issuing an interim final regulation to update the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP) and the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP) regulations to reflect updated election opportunities for participants in the Pathways Programs. The Pathways Programs were created by Executive Order (E.O.) 13562, signed by the President on December 27, 2010, and are designed to enable the Federal Government to compete effectively for students and recent graduates by improving its recruitment efforts through internships and similar programs with Federal agencies. This interim final rule furthers these recruitment and retention efforts by providing health insurance, as well as dental and vision benefits, to eligible program participants and their families.

  20. Final Amendments to Delegation of Authority Provisions in the Prevention of Significant Deterioration Permitting Program

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    finalized amendments to the New Source Review (NSR) Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) permitting program that will allow the EPA to delegate administration of the program to interested and qualified tribal agencies.

  1. Renewable Fuel Standard Program (RFS1): Final Rule Additional Resources

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    The final rule of fuels and fuel additives: renewable fuel standard program is published on May 1, 2007 and is effective on September 1, 2007. You will find the links to this final rule and technical amendments supporting this rule.

  2. The Effects of Abortion Training on Family Medicine Residents' Clinical Experience.

    PubMed

    Summit, Aleza K; Gold, Marji

    2017-01-01

    RHEDI, Reproductive Health Education in Family Medicine, offers technical assistance and funding to family medicine residency programs to support integrated opt-out abortion and reproductive health training for residents. This study assessed the impact of this enhanced training on residents' reproductive health experience. Investigator-developed pre- and post-surveys were administered online to 214 residents at 12 family medicine residency programs before and after their RHEDI training experience. Surveys addressed experience in contraception and abortion, attitudes around abortion provision, and post-residency intentions. Descriptive statistics were generated, and statistical tests were performed to assess changes after training. Surveys had a 90% response rate. After the RHEDI enhanced reproductive health rotation, residents reported increased experience in contraception provision, early pregnancy ultrasound, aspiration and medication abortion, and miscarriage management. After training, residents with experience in IUD insertion increased from 85% to 99%, and contraceptive implant insertion experience rose from 60% to 85%. Residents who had performed any abortions increased from 15% to 79%, and self-rated competency in abortion increased. Finally, almost all residents agreed that early abortion was within the scope of family medicine, and training confirmed residents' intentions to provide reproductive health services after residency. Integrated training in reproductive health, with an emphasis on abortion, increases residents' experience and underscores their understanding of the role of these services in family medicine. Increasing the number of family medicine residency programs that offer this training could help prepare family physicians to meet their patients' needs for reproductive health services.

  3. 75 FR 73027 - Cooperative Conservation Partnership Initiative and Wetlands Reserve Enhancement Program

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-11-29

    ... Corporation Cooperative Conservation Partnership Initiative and Wetlands Reserve Enhancement Program AGENCY... Initiative. SUMMARY: The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) announces the availability of... Partnership Initiative (CCPI) and up to $25 million in the Wetlands Reserve Enhancement Program (WREP) through...

  4. Industrial Technology Modernization Program. Project 28. Automation of Receiving, Receiving Inspection and Stores

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1987-06-15

    001 GENERAL DYNAMICS 00 FORT WORTH DIVISION INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY MODERNIZATION PROGRAM Phase 2 Final Project Repc t JUNG 0 ?7 PROJECT 28 AUTOMATION...DYNAMICS FORT WORTH DIVISION INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY MODERNIZATION PROGRAM Phase 2 Final Project Report PROJECT 28 AUTOMATION OF RECEIVING, RECEIVING...13 6 PROJECT ASSUMPTIONS 20 7 PRELIMINARY/FINAL DESIGN AND FINDINGS 21 8 SYSTEM/EQUIPMENT/MACHINING SPECIFICATIONS 37 9 VENDOR/ INDUSTRY ANALYSIS

  5. Head Start Program and Cost Data Analysis: Final Report - Volume II.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cordes, Joseph; And Others

    This second volume of the Head Start Program and Cost Data Analysis Final Report analyzes data from sources other than the Head Start Program Information Report (PIR). The report is divided into three sections: Distributional Impact of Head Start Financing, Pilot Study of Program Compliance, and Recommendations for Secondary Data Analysis. The…

  6. 76 FR 6564 - Florida: Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program Revisions

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-02-07

    ...: Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program Revisions AGENCY: Environmental... implement the RCRA hazardous waste management program. We granted authorization for changes to their program..., 06/ 62-730.185(1) F.A.C. Universal Waste Management. 29/07. State Initiated Changes to the 62-730.210...

  7. Selection and Validation of Model Early Childhood Projects: Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Stock, John R.; And Others

    Presented is the final report of a research program to select and describe outstanding Handicapped Children's Early Education Program (HCEEP) projects. Projects were analyzed in terms of 14 components of an HCEEP program (such as screening, programing, and inservice training). A detailed discussion of model selection and validation is appendixed.)…

  8. 76 FR 23795 - Low-Power Television and Translator Upgrade Program: Notice of Final Closing Date

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-04-28

    .... 110418247-1247-01] Low-Power Television and Translator Upgrade Program: Notice of Final Closing Date AGENCY... receipt of applications for the Low-Power Television and Translator Upgrade Program (Upgrade Program) will... Rules to Establish Rules for Digital Low Power Television, Television Translator, and Television Booster...

  9. 40 CFR Appendix D to Part 97 - Final Section 126 Rule: State Compliance supplement pools for the Section 126 Final Rule (Tons)

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 20 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Final Section 126 Rule: State Compliance supplement pools for the Section 126 Final Rule (Tons) D Appendix D to Part 97 Protection of... PROGRAM AND CAIR NOX AND SO2 TRADING PROGRAMS Pt. 97, App. D Appendix D to Part 97—Final Section 126 Rule...

  10. Promoting country ownership and stewardship of health programs: The global fund experience.

    PubMed

    Atun, Rifat; Kazatchkine, Michel

    2009-11-01

    The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria was established in 2002 to provide large-scale financing to middle- and low-income countries to intensify the fight against the 3 diseases. Its model has enabled strengthening of local health leadership to improve governance of HIV programs in 5 ways. First, the Global Fund has encouraged development of local capacity to generate technically sound proposals reflecting country needs and priorities. Second, through dual-track financing-where countries are encouraged to nominate at least one government and one nongovernment principal recipient to lead program implementation-the Global Fund has enabled civil society and other nongovernmental organizations to play a critical role in the design, implementation, and oversight of HIV programs. Third, investments to strengthen community systems have enabled greater involvement of community leaders in effective mobilization of demand and scale-up for services to reach vulnerable groups. Fourth, capacity building outside the state sector has improved community participation in governance of public health. Finally, an emphasis on inclusiveness and diversity in planning, implementation, and oversight has broadly enhanced country coordination capacity. Strengthening local leadership capacity and governance are critical to building efficient and equitable health systems to deliver universal coverage of HIV services.

  11. 76 FR 38134 - Final Priorities; Disability and Rehabilitation Research Projects and Centers Program-Disability...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-06-29

    ...-identified research designs to generate reliable and valid findings. Changes: None. Final Priorities Priority... DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Final Priorities; Disability and Rehabilitation Research Projects and Centers Program--Disability Rehabilitation Research Projects, etc. AGENCY: Office of Special Education and...

  12. 76 FR 17842 - Credit Enhancement for Charter School Facilities Program

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-03-31

    ... DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Credit Enhancement for Charter School Facilities Program AGENCY: Office of... for Charter School Facilities program (March 11 NIA). This notice makes two corrections to the March...-mail: [email protected] ; or by mail: (Attention: Credit Enhancement for Charter School Facilities...

  13. STD / AIDS prevention: new challenges for family planning programs.

    PubMed

    Williamson, N; Townsend, S

    1991-12-01

    Family planning (FP) professionals and programs are increasingly called upon to respond to increasing rates of sexually transmitted diseases (STD) and AIDS. While structural and ideological readjustment to meet these demands may seem problematic for some programs, the AIDS epidemic allows the opportunity for programs to expand into preventive health activities. Dr. Nancy Williamson, Director of Family Health International's Division of Program Evaluation and 1 of the authors of the World Health Organization's guidelines on family planning and AIDS, responds to questions most frequently posed by FP providers considering the need for and process of FP program restructuring. She holds that programmatic expansion for the prevention of HIV infection enhances the capability to provide good contraceptive services. FP programs are not expected to abandon their central missions of preventing unwanted pregnancies, but to engage in both the prevention of STD infection and unwanted pregnancies where possible. Sharing responsible sex behavior and the condom as common means of prevention, these 2 missions are far from mutually exclusive. The AIDS epidemic has impacted upon FP programs in a number of ways. Increased demand for condoms has been observed in countries with high levels of HIV seropositivity, greater concern has been placed upon counseling and sterile procedures, view have been altered to accept this dual role of contraception, and universal precautions for the protection of both client and workers from infection are of greater importance. Promoting the consistent use of condoms for the prevention of STDs has proved more challenging than promoting for contraceptive uses. Gaining the legitimacy of condoms among married couples while they are also promoted among high-risk groups also remains difficult. On other issues, promoting the routine use of 2 temporary methods is not recommended, questions must be posed to determine clients' risk status for infection, counseling and services should be provided to those HIV+, and alternative funding sources may need to be sought for FP program expansion. Arguments for and against such expansion are discussed. Most of sub-Saharan Africa, the Caribbean, and Thailand are in most serious need of programmatic changes, India and most of Central and South American need some changes, and other areas would benefit from minor changes. Dr. Williamson finally considers how programs should be modified, changes made thus far by programs, and suggests what programs may do to enhance their capability to provide contraceptive services.

  14. A structural equation model on the attributes of a skills enhancement program affecting clinical competence of pre-graduate nursing students.

    PubMed

    Rebueno, Ma Carina D R; Tiongco, Dyan Dee D; Macindo, John Rey B

    2017-02-01

    Clinical competence remains an issue in nursing and has received greater emphasis than academic competence. Although skill enhancement programs are recommended and beneficial, there is limited evidence on its influence on the clinical competence of pre-graduate nursing students. This study explored the attributes of a skills enhancement program that affect the perceived clinical competence of pre-graduate nursing students. A cross-sectional study was conducted in a private higher education institution in the Philippines from April to May 2016. A total of 245 pre-graduate nursing students participated and completed a three-part survey composed of the respondent's robotfoto, the Skills Enhancement Program Questionnaire, and the Clinical Competence Questionnaire. Factor analysis explicated the attributes of the skills enhancement program while structural equation modeling and path analysis analyzed the variables' relationship. Findings showed that a skills enhancement program has 4 attributes: supportive clinical instructor, comprehensive orientation, formative goals and objectives, and conducive learning environment. Although all attributes of the program positively affected clinical competence, a supportive clinical instructor had the strongest influence on all clinical competency dimensions. A skills enhancement program that has a supportive clinical instructor, comprehensive orientation, formative goals and objectives, and conducive learning environment facilitates clinical competency development among pre-graduate nursing students. This knowledge provides momentum for nursing educators to review and refine their skills and the existing design of their skills enhancement program to further develop clinical competency among pre-graduate nursing students. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  15. Performance assessment and optimisation of a large information system by combined customer relationship management and resilience engineering: a mathematical programming approach

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Azadeh, A.; Foroozan, H.; Ashjari, B.; Motevali Haghighi, S.; Yazdanparast, R.; Saberi, M.; Torki Nejad, M.

    2017-10-01

    ISs and ITs play a critical role in large complex gas corporations. Many factors such as human, organisational and environmental factors affect IS in an organisation. Therefore, investigating ISs success is considered to be a complex problem. Also, because of the competitive business environment and the high amount of information flow in organisations, new issues like resilient ISs and successful customer relationship management (CRM) have emerged. A resilient IS will provide sustainable delivery of information to internal and external customers. This paper presents an integrated approach to enhance and optimise the performance of each component of a large IS based on CRM and resilience engineering (RE) in a gas company. The enhancement of the performance can help ISs to perform business tasks efficiently. The data are collected from standard questionnaires. It is then analysed by data envelopment analysis by selecting the optimal mathematical programming approach. The selected model is validated and verified by principle component analysis method. Finally, CRM and RE factors are identified as influential factors through sensitivity analysis for this particular case study. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study for performance assessment and optimisation of large IS by combined RE and CRM.

  16. Interdisciplinary Project-Based Learning through an Environmental Water Quality Study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Juhl, Lorie; Yearsley, Kaye; Silva, Andrew J.

    1997-12-01

    An interdisciplinary environmental water quality study was designed and conducted to enhance training and employability of chemical and environmental technician students in associate degree programs. Four project objectives were identified as a means to enhance the educational experience and employability of our students: provide experience on analytical instrumentation for organic compounds (gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, GC/MS), require interdisciplinary group interactions and problem solving, provide experience with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) procedures, and require cooperation with state agencies/private organizations. Students worked in groups that included representatives from both programs to develop project objectives and a Sampling and Analysis Plan (SAP) following EPA standards. Input from personnel at Idaho's Department of Environmental Quality and Bureau of Laboratories and from volunteers in an environmental "watch dog" organization called the Henry's Fork Foundation aided students in the development and implementation of their SAP. Subsequently, groups sampled sections of the Henry's Fork River and analyzed for organic, inorganic, and fecal contaminants. Analysis included EPA method 525.2 for pesticides using GC/MS. Data from all river segments was shared and each group submitted a final report analyzing results. Surveys completed by students and instructors indicate that the project is a successful teaching method allowing introduction of new skills as well as review of important technical and employability skills.

  17. Design of an Aircraft Vortex Spacing System for Airport Capacity Improvement

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hinton, David A.; Charnock, James K.; Bagwell, Donald R.

    2000-01-01

    The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is addressing airport capacity enhancements through the Terminal Area Productivity (TAP) program. Within TAP, the Reduced Spacing Operations element at the NASA Langley Research Center is developing an Aircraft VOrtex Spacing System (AVOSS). AVOSS will integrate the output of several systems to produce weather dependent, dynamic wake vortex spacing criteria. These systems provide current and predicted weather conditions, models of wake vortex transport and decay in these weather conditions, and real-time feedback of wake vortex behavior from sensors. The goal of the NASA program is to provide the research and development to demonstrate an engineering model AVOSS, in real-time operation, at a major airport. A wake vortex system test facility was established at the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) in 1997 and tested in 1998. Results from operation of the initial AVOSS system, plus advances in wake vortex prediction and near-term weather forecast models, "nowcast", have been integrated into a second-generation system. This AVOSS version is undergoing final checkout in preparation for a system demonstration in 2000. This paper describes the revised AVOSS system architecture, subsystem enhancements, and initial results with AVOSS version 2 from a deployment at DFW in the fall of 1999.

  18. African Social Studies Program-1, 1988-89. Final Report. A Master's Degree Program for African Social Studies Leaders.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Indiana Univ., Bloomington.

    This paper presents the final report on a project that brought African social studies education leaders to Indiana University (Bloomington) to take part in a Master's Degree program. The report contains a brief history of the program, a description of the program, a discussion of issues relating to acculturation, an evaluation, a list of…

  19. 76 FR 19909 - International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-04-11

    ... 1121-AA78 International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program AGENCY: Office of Justice... promulgating this interim-final rule for its International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program... international terrorism. DATES: Effective date: This interim-final rule is effective April 11, 2011. Comment...

  20. 76 FR 18624 - Research, Technical Assistance and Training Programs: Notice of Final Circular

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-04-04

    ... to FTA Circular 6100.1D, Research and Technical Assistance Training Program: Application Instructions... DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Transit Administration Research, Technical Assistance and Training Programs: Notice of Final Circular AGENCY: Federal Transit Administration (FTA), DOT. ACTION...

  1. Medicaid program; health care-related taxes. Final rule.

    PubMed

    2009-06-30

    This rule finalizes our proposal to delay enforcement of certain clarifications regarding standards for determining hold harmless arrangements in the final rule entitled, "Medicaid Program; Health Care-Related Taxes" from the expiration of a Congressional moratorium on enforcement from July 1, 2009 to June 30, 2010.

  2. BSM Delta Qualification 2, volume 2

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1994-01-01

    This report, presented in three volumes, provides the results of a two-motor Delta Qualification 2 program conducted in 1993 to certify the following enhancements for incorporation into booster separation motor (BSM) flight hardware: vulcanized-in-place nozzle aft closure insulation; new iso-static ATJ bulk graphite throat insert material; adhesive EA 9394 for bonding the nozzle throat, igniter grain rod/centering insert/igniter case; deletion of the igniter adapter insulator ring; deletion of the igniter adapter/igniter case interface RTV; and deletion of loctite from igniter retainer plate threads. The enhancements above directly resulted from (1) the BSM total quality management (TQM) team initiatives to enhance the BSM producibility, and (2) the necessity to qualify new throat insert and adhesive systems to replace existing materials that will not be available. Testing was completed at both the component and motor levels. Component testing was accomplished to screen candidate materials (e.g., throat materials, adhesive systems) and to optimize processes (e.g., aft closure insulator vulcanization approach) prior to their incorporation into the test motors. Motor tests -- consisting of two motors, randomly selected by USBI's on-site quality personnel from production lot AAY, which were modified to accept the enhancements -- were completed to provide the final qualification of the enhancements for incorporation into flight hardware. Volume 2 details the environmental testing (vibration and shock) conducted at Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) to which the motors were subjected prior to static tests.

  3. Medicare Program: Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment and Ambulatory Surgical Center Payment Systems and Quality Reporting Programs; Organ Procurement Organization Reporting and Communication; Transplant Outcome Measures and Documentation Requirements; Electronic Health Record (EHR) Incentive Programs; Payment to Nonexcepted Off-Campus Provider-Based Department of a Hospital; Hospital Value-Based Purchasing (VBP) Program; Establishment of Payment Rates Under the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule for Nonexcepted Items and Services Furnished by an Off-Campus Provider-Based Department of a Hospital. Final rule with comment period and interim final rule with comment period.

    PubMed

    2016-11-14

    This final rule with comment period revises the Medicare hospital outpatient prospective payment system (OPPS) and the Medicare ambulatory surgical center (ASC) payment system for CY 2017 to implement applicable statutory requirements and changes arising from our continuing experience with these systems. In this final rule with comment period, we describe the changes to the amounts and factors used to determine the payment rates for Medicare services paid under the OPPS and those paid under the ASC payment system. In addition, this final rule with comment period updates and refines the requirements for the Hospital Outpatient Quality Reporting (OQR) Program and the ASC Quality Reporting (ASCQR) Program. Further, in this final rule with comment period, we are making changes to tolerance thresholds for clinical outcomes for solid organ transplant programs; to Organ Procurement Organizations (OPOs) definitions, outcome measures, and organ transport documentation; and to the Medicare and Medicaid Electronic Health Record Incentive Programs. We also are removing the HCAHPS Pain Management dimension from the Hospital Value-Based Purchasing (VBP) Program. In addition, we are implementing section 603 of the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015 relating to payment for certain items and services furnished by certain off-campus provider-based departments of a provider. In this document, we also are issuing an interim final rule with comment period to establish the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule payment rates for the nonexcepted items and services billed by a nonexcepted off-campus provider-based department of a hospital in accordance with the provisions of section 603.

  4. Process development for automated solar cell and module production. Task 4: Automated array assembly

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hagerty, J. J.

    1981-01-01

    Progress in the development of automated solar cell and module production is reported. The unimate robot is programmed for the final 35 cell pattern to be used in the fabrication of the deliverable modules. The mechanical construction of the automated lamination station and final assembly station phases are completed and the first operational testing is underway. The final controlling program is written and optimized. The glass reinforced concrete (GRC) panels to be used for testing and deliverables are in production. Test routines are grouped together and defined to produce the final control program.

  5. Landscape scale ecological monitoring as part of an EIA of major construction activities: experience at the Turkish section of the BTC crude oil pipeline project.

    PubMed

    Sahin, Sükran; Kurum, Ekrem

    2009-09-01

    Ecological monitoring is a complementary component of the overall environmental management and monitoring program of any Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report. The monitoring method should be developed for each project phase and allow for periodic reporting and assessment of compliance with the environmental conditions and requirements of the EIA. Also, this method should incorporate a variance request program since site-specific conditions can affect construction on a daily basis and require time-critical application of alternative construction scenarios or environmental management methods integrated with alternative mitigation measures. Finally, taking full advantage of the latest information and communication technologies can enhance the quality of, and public involvement in, the environmental management program. In this paper, a landscape-scale ecological monitoring method for major construction projects is described using, as a basis, 20 months of experience on the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan (BTC) Crude Oil Pipeline Project, covering Turkish Sections Lot B and Lot C. This analysis presents suggestions for improving ecological monitoring for major construction activities.

  6. Status of DSMT research program

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Mcgowan, Paul E.; Javeed, Mehzad; Edighoffer, Harold H.

    1991-01-01

    The status of the Dynamic Scale Model Technology (DSMT) research program is presented. DSMT is developing scale model technology for large space structures as part of the Control Structure Interaction (CSI) program at NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC). Under DSMT a hybrid-scale structural dynamics model of Space Station Freedom was developed. Space Station Freedom was selected as the focus structure for DSMT since the station represents the first opportunity to obtain flight data on a complex, three-dimensional space structure. Included is an overview of DSMT including the development of the space station scale model and the resulting hardware. Scaling technology was developed for this model to achieve a ground test article which existing test facilities can accommodate while employing realistically scaled hardware. The model was designed and fabricated by the Lockheed Missile and Space Co., and is assembled at LaRc for dynamic testing. Also, results from ground tests and analyses of the various model components are presented along with plans for future subassembly and matted model tests. Finally, utilization of the scale model for enhancing analysis verification of the full-scale space station is also considered.

  7. The National Evaluation of School Nutrition Programs. Final Report - Executive Summary.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Radzikowski, Jack

    This is a summary of the final report of a study (begun in 1979) of the National School Lunch, School Breakfast, and Special Milk Programs. The major objectives of the evaluation were to (1) identify existing information on the school nutrition programs; (2) identify determinants of participation in the programs and develop statistical models for…

  8. Recommended observational skills training for IAEA safeguards inspections. Final report: Recommended observational skills training for IAEA safeguards inspections

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

    Toquam, J.L.; Morris, F.A.

    This is the second of two reports prepared to assist the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA or Agency) in enhancing the effectiveness of its international safeguards inspections through inspector training in {open_quotes}Observational Skills{close_quotes}. The first (Phase 1) report was essentially exploratory. It defined Observational Skills broadly to include all appropriate cognitive, communications, and interpersonal techniques that have the potential to help IAEA safeguards inspectors function more effectively. It identified 10 specific Observational Skills components, analyzed their relevance to IAEA safeguards inspections, and reviewed a variety of inspection programs in the public and private sectors that provide training in one ormore » more of these components. The report concluded that while it should be possible to draw upon these other programs in developing Observational Skills training for IAEA inspectors, the approaches utilized in these programs will likely require significant adaption to support the specific job requirements, policies, and practices that define the IAEA inspector`s job. The overall objective of this second (Phase 2) report is to provide a basis for the actual design and delivery of Observational Skills training to IAEA inspectors. The more specific purposes of this report are to convey a fuller understanding of the potential application of Observational Skills to the inspector`s job, describe inspector perspectives on the relevance and importance of particular Observational Skills, identify the specific Observational Skill components that are most important and relevant to enhancing safeguards inspections, and make recommendations as to Observational Skills training for the IAEA`s consideration in further developing its Safeguards training program.« less

  9. Hormone-dependent control of developmental timing through regulation of chromatin accessibility

    PubMed Central

    Uyehara, Christopher M.; Nystrom, Spencer L.; Niederhuber, Matthew J.; Leatham-Jensen, Mary; Ma, Yiqin; Buttitta, Laura A.

    2017-01-01

    Specification of tissue identity during development requires precise coordination of gene expression in both space and time. Spatially, master regulatory transcription factors are required to control tissue-specific gene expression programs. However, the mechanisms controlling how tissue-specific gene expression changes over time are less well understood. Here, we show that hormone-induced transcription factors control temporal gene expression by regulating the accessibility of DNA regulatory elements. Using the Drosophila wing, we demonstrate that temporal changes in gene expression are accompanied by genome-wide changes in chromatin accessibility at temporal-specific enhancers. We also uncover a temporal cascade of transcription factors following a pulse of the steroid hormone ecdysone such that different times in wing development can be defined by distinct combinations of hormone-induced transcription factors. Finally, we show that the ecdysone-induced transcription factor E93 controls temporal identity by directly regulating chromatin accessibility across the genome. Notably, we found that E93 controls enhancer activity through three different modalities, including promoting accessibility of late-acting enhancers and decreasing accessibility of early-acting enhancers. Together, this work supports a model in which an extrinsic signal triggers an intrinsic transcription factor cascade that drives development forward in time through regulation of chromatin accessibility. PMID:28536147

  10. Appendices for EPAct/V2/E-89 Final Report on Program Design and Data Collection

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    This page contains the appendices A through P for EPAct/V2/E-89 Final Report on Program Design and Data Collection - First Report (PDF).Program design and data collection activities are described in the above report.

  11. 77 FR 60581 - Compensation, Retirement Programs, and Related Benefits

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-10-03

    ..., 612, 619 et al. Compensation, Retirement Programs, and Related Benefits; Final Rule #0;#0;Federal... Programs, and Related Benefits AGENCY: Farm Credit Administration. ACTION: Final rule. SUMMARY: The Farm... and associations to require disclosure of pension benefit and supplemental retirement plans and a...

  12. 40 CFR 272.951 - Louisiana state-administered program: Final authorization.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 28 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Louisiana state-administered program: Final authorization. 272.951 Section 272.951 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES (CONTINUED) APPROVED STATE HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS Louisiana § 272.951...

  13. Renewable Fuel Pathways II Final Rule to Identify Additional Fuel Pathways under Renewable Fuel Standard Program

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    This final rule describes EPA’s evaluation of biofuels derived from biogas fuel pathways under the RFS program and other minor amendments related to survey requirements associated with ULSD program and misfueling mitigation regulations for E15.

  14. GME Concentrations: A Collaborative Interdisciplinary Approach to Learner-Driven Education.

    PubMed

    Nagler, Alisa; Chudgar, Saumil M; Rudd, Mariah; Whicker, Shari A; Gagliardi, Jane P; Narayan, Aditee; Heflin, Mitchell T; Gordon, David C; Andolsek, Kathryn M

    2015-09-01

    Graduate medical education (GME) programs may struggle to provide the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to meet trainee career interests and goals beyond a clinical focus. Sponsoring institutions can partner with programs to deliver content not included in typical clinical experiences of GME programs. To perform a needs assessment and to develop, implement, and measure acceptability and feasibility of an institution-wide GME Concentrations curriculum. In response to the needs assessment, GME leadership developed 4 concentrations: (1) Resident-as-Teacher; (2) Patient Safety and Quality Improvement; (3) Law, Ethics, and Health Policy; and (4) Leaders in Medicine. We formed advisory committees that developed curricula for each concentration, including didactics, experiential learning, and individual project mentoring. Participants completed pre- and postassessments. We assessed feasibility and evaluated participant presentations and final projects. Over the course of 3 years, 91 trainees (of approximately 1000 trainees each year) from 36 GME programs (of 82 accredited programs) have participated in the program. The number of participants has increased each year, and 22 participants have completed the program overall. Cost for each participant is estimated at $500. Participant projects addressed a variety of education and health care areas, including curriculum development, quality improvement, and national needs assessments. Participants reported that their GME Concentrations experience enhanced their training and fostered career interests. The GME Concentrations program provides a feasible, institutionally based approach for educating trainees in additional interest areas. Institutional resources are leveraged to provide and customize content important to participants' career interests beyond their specialty.

  15. Collaborative Testing in Practical Laboratories: An Effective Teaching-Learning Method in Histology.

    PubMed

    Guo, Yuping; Li, Enzhong

    2016-01-01

    This article presents an experimental teaching and learning program used in histology with first-year students in the second term in the Faculty of Biology at Huanghuai University, China. Eighty-six students were divided randomly into two groups (n=43 per group). Tests were conducted at the end of each practical laboratory (10 laboratories in total) in which collaborative testing was used in the experimental group and traditional testing in the control group. To assess achievement, a final examination in histology was carried out at the end of the course. To determine students' attitude to the teaching styles, a questionnaire survey was conducted at the end of the term. Results showed that students preferred the collaborative testing format. In the experimental group, students' scores were significantly higher than those of students in the control group in final examinations. These findings indicate that collaborative testing enhances student learning and understanding of the material taught, and suggest that collaborative testing is an effective teaching-learning method in histology.

  16. Spring 2013 Graduate Engineering Internship Summary

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ehrlich, Joshua

    2013-01-01

    In the spring of 2013, I participated in the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Pathways Intern Employment Program at the Kennedy Space Center (KSC) in Florida. This was my final internship opportunity with NASA, a third consecutive extension from a summer 2012 internship. Since the start of my tenure here at KSC, I have gained an invaluable depth of engineering knowledge and extensive hands-on experience. These opportunities have granted me the ability to enhance my systems engineering approach in the field of payload design and testing as well as develop a strong foundation in the area of composite fabrication and testing for repair design on space vehicle structures. As a systems engineer, I supported the systems engineering and integration team with final acceptance testing of the Vegetable Production System, commonly referred to as Veggie. Verification and validation (V and V) of Veggie was carried out prior to qualification testing of the payload, which incorporated the process of confirming the system's design requirements dependent on one or more validation methods: inspection, analysis, demonstration, and testing.

  17. Medicare Program; Revisions to Payment Policies Under the Physician Fee Schedule and Other Revisions to Part B for CY 2017; Medicare Advantage Bid Pricing Data Release; Medicare Advantage and Part D Medical Loss Ratio Data Release; Medicare Advantage Provider Network Requirements; Expansion of Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program Model; Medicare Shared Savings Program Requirements. Final rule.

    PubMed

    2016-11-15

    This major final rule addresses changes to the physician fee schedule and other Medicare Part B payment policies, such as changes to the Value Modifier, to ensure that our payment systems are updated to reflect changes in medical practice and the relative value of services, as well as changes in the statute. This final rule also includes changes related to the Medicare Shared Savings Program, requirements for Medicare Advantage Provider Networks, and provides for the release of certain pricing data from Medicare Advantage bids and of data from medical loss ratio reports submitted by Medicare health and drug plans. In addition, this final rule expands the Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program model.

  18. Special Programs for Individual Needs (SPIN). Handicapped Children Early Education Program: P.L. 91-230 Title VI, Part C. Final Report, July 1, 1974 to June 30, 1977.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wight, Byron W.

    The document contains the final report of the Special Programs for Individualized Needs (SPIN) program designed to develop a demonstration model for training day care personnel to identify developmentally delayed or emotionally disturbed children and to program for them within the regular day care setting. Major objectives were to develop…

  19. Basic health program: state administration of basic health programs; eligibility and enrollment in standard health plans; essential health benefits in standard health plans; performance standards for basic health programs; premium and cost sharing for basic health programs; federal funding process; trust fund and financial integrity. Final rule.

    PubMed

    2014-03-12

    This final rule establishes the Basic Health Program (BHP), as required by section 1331 of the Affordable Care Act. The BHP provides states the flexibility to establish a health benefits coverage program for low-income individuals who would otherwise be eligible to purchase coverage through the Affordable Insurance Exchange (Exchange, also called Health Insurance Marketplace). The BHP complements and coordinates with enrollment in a QHP through the Exchange, as well as with enrollment in Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). This final rule also sets forth a framework for BHP eligibility and enrollment, benefits, delivery of health care services, transfer of funds to participating states, and federal oversight. Additionally, this final rule amends another rule issued by the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (Secretary) in order to clarify the applicability of that rule to the BHP.

  20. Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act; HHS notice of benefit and payment parameters for 2016. Final rule.

    PubMed

    2015-02-27

    This final rule sets forth payment parameters and provisions related to the risk adjustment, reinsurance, and risk corridors programs; cost sharing parameters and cost-sharing reductions; and user fees for Federally-facilitated Exchanges. It also finalizes additional standards for the individual market annual open enrollment period for the 2016 benefit year, essential health benefits, qualified health plans, network adequacy, quality improvement strategies, the Small Business Health Options Program, guaranteed availability, guaranteed renewability, minimum essential coverage, the rate review program, the medical loss ratio program, and other related topics.

  1. Algorithm for solving of two-level hierarchical minimax program control problem of final state the regional socio-economic system in the presence of risks

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shorikov, A. F.

    2017-10-01

    In this paper we study the problem of optimization of guaranteed result for program control by the final state of regional social and economic system in the presence of risks. For this problem we propose a mathematical model in the form of two-level hierarchical minimax program control problem of the final state of this process with incomplete information. For solving of its problem we constructed the common algorithm that has a form of a recurrent procedure of solving a linear programming and a finite optimization problems.

  2. Assistive technology for promoting adaptive skills of children with cerebral palsy: ten cases evaluation.

    PubMed

    Stasolla, Fabrizio; Caffò, Alessandro O; Perilli, Viviana; Boccasini, Adele; Damiani, Rita; D'Amico, Fiora

    2018-05-06

    To extend the use of assistive technology for promoting adaptive skills of children with cerebral palsy. To assess its effects on positive participation of ten participants involved. To carry out a social validation recruiting parents, physiotherapists and support teachers as external raters. A multiple probe design was implemented for Studies I and II. Study I involved five participants exposed to a combined program aimed at enhancing choice process of preferred items and locomotion fluency. Study II involved five further children for a combined intervention finalized at ensuring them with literacy access and ambulation responses. Study III recruited 60 external raters for a social validation assessment. All participants improved their performance, although differences among children occurred. Indices of positive participation increased as well. Social raters favorably scored the use of both technology and programs. Assistive technology-based programs were effective for promoting independence of children with cerebral palsy. Implications for Rehabilitation A basic form of assistive technology such as a microswitch-based program may be useful and helpful for supporting adaptive skills of children with cerebral palsy and different levels of functioning. The same program may improve the participants' indices of positive participation and constructive engagement with beneficial effects on their quality of life. The positive social rating provided by external experts sensitive to the matter may recommend a favorable acceptance and implementation of the program in daily settings.

  3. Extension of effective date for temporary pilot program setting the time and place for a hearing before an administrative law judge. Final rule.

    PubMed

    2013-07-29

    : We are extending our pilot program that authorizes the agency to set the time and place for a hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ). This final rule will extend the pilot program for 1 year. The extension of the pilot program continues our commitment to improve the efficiency of our hearing process and maintain a hearing process that results in accurate, high-quality decisions for claimants. The current pilot program will expire on August 9, 2013. In this final rule, we are extending the effective date to August 9, 2014. We are making no other substantive changes.

  4. Suspension of enrollment in the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program for Peace Corps volunteers. Final rule.

    PubMed

    2006-11-17

    The Office of Personnel Management is issuing a final regulation to allow Peace Corps volunteers who are FEHB Program enrolled annuitants, survivors, and former spouses to suspend their FEHB enrollments and then return to the FEHB Program during the Open Season, or return to FEHB coverage immediately, if they involuntarily lose health benefits coverage under the Peace Corps. The intent of this final rule is to allow these beneficiaries to avoid the expense of continuing to pay FEHB Program premiums while they have other health coverage as Peace Corps volunteers, without endangering their ability to return to the FEHB Program in the future.

  5. 78 FR 25579 - Georgia: Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program Revisions

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-05-02

    ... prohibitions imposed by Federal regulations that EPA promulgates pursuant to the Hazardous and Solid Waste...: Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program Revisions AGENCY: Environmental... authorization of changes to its hazardous waste program under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA...

  6. 7 CFR 1493.280 - Evidence of export report.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... OF AGRICULTURE EXPORT PROGRAMS CCC EXPORT CREDIT GUARANTEE PROGRAMS CCC Facility Guarantee Program... to provide CCC an evidence of export report for each shipment of goods or provision of services... provided were included in the final application for a final commitment as approved by CCC for coverage...

  7. 7 CFR 1493.280 - Evidence of export report.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... OF AGRICULTURE EXPORT PROGRAMS CCC EXPORT CREDIT GUARANTEE PROGRAMS CCC Facility Guarantee Program... to provide CCC an evidence of export report for each shipment of goods or provision of services... provided were included in the final application for a final commitment as approved by CCC for coverage...

  8. 7 CFR 1493.280 - Evidence of export report.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... OF AGRICULTURE EXPORT PROGRAMS CCC EXPORT CREDIT GUARANTEE PROGRAMS CCC Facility Guarantee Program... to provide CCC an evidence of export report for each shipment of goods or provision of services... provided were included in the final application for a final commitment as approved by CCC for coverage...

  9. "SURGENT" -- student e-learning for reality: the application of interactive visual images to problem-based learning in undergraduate surgery.

    PubMed

    Corrigan, Mark; Reardon, Michelle; Shields, Connor; Redmond, Henry

    2008-01-01

    Information technology has the potential to transform surgical education. Combining symbolic, iconic, and enactive teaching modalities to construct an authentic conceptual model potentially can transform a primarily didactic learning experience into an interactive Web-enhanced one. This study sought to assess the introduction of a Web-based module to complement traditional surgical undergraduate curricula. Adopting the clinical case as its fundamental educational approach, an online resource simulating surgical clinical decision making ("SURGENT," http://www.surgent.ie) was developed, which consists of the interpretation of clinical photographs, laboratory data, and X-rays as well as the formulation of a management plan. Evaluation was in both a qualitative and a quantitative fashion. An anonymous postcourse survey (73% response) of 117 final medical students was used to by researchers to evaluate access, process, and outcome criteria. SURGENT was used by 98% of students, with 69% spending more than 30 minutes per session on the program. First-class honors in the final surgical clinical examination improved from 11% to 20% (p = 0.01) as compared with the previous control year. A Web-enhanced interactive surgical module in an undergraduate course can convey successfully information and understanding beyond the textbook. It is intended that SURGENT will supplement textbooks and ward experience, allowing students to develop their clinical decision-making skills.

  10. A hybrid integrated services digital network-internet protocol solution for resident education.

    PubMed

    Erickson, Delnora; Greer, Lester; Belard, Arnaud; Tinnel, Brent; O'Connell, John

    2010-05-01

    The purpose of this study was to explore the effectiveness of incorporating Web-based application sharing of virtual medical simulation software within a multipoint video teleconference (VTC) as a training tool in graduate medical education. National Capital Consortium Radiation Oncology Residency Program resident and attending physicians participated in dosimetry teaching sessions held via VTC using Acrobat Connect application sharing. Residents at remote locations could take turns designing radiation treatments using standard three-dimensional planning software, whereas instructors gave immediate feedback and demonstrated proper techniques. Immediately after each dosimetry lesson, residents were asked to complete a survey that evaluated the effectiveness of the session. At the end of a 3-month trial of using Adobe Connect, residents completed a final survey that compared this teaching technology to the prior VTC-alone method. The mean difference from equality across all quality measures from the weekly survey was 0.8, where 0 indicated neither enhanced nor detracted from the learning experience and 1 indicated a minor enhancement in the learning experience. The mean difference from equality across all measures from the final survey comparing use of application sharing with VTC to VTC alone was 1.5, where 1 indicated slightly better and 2 indicated a somewhat better experience. The teaching efficacy of multipoint VTC is perceived by medical residents to be more effective when complemented by application-sharing software such as Adobe Acrobat Connect.

  11. Accelerated rehabilitation after arthroscopic Bankart repair for selected cases: a prospective randomized clinical study.

    PubMed

    Kim, Seung-Ho; Ha, Kwon-Ick; Jung, Min-Wook; Lim, Moon-Sup; Kim, Young-Min; Park, Jong-Hyuk

    2003-09-01

    Increased stress within a certain limit enhances ligament healing and improves joint function. In this prospective randomized clinical trial, we compared the clinical results of early motion versus conventional immobilization after arthroscopic Bankart repair in a selected patient population. Prospective randomized clinical trial. We performed an arthroscopic Bankart repair using suture anchors in 62 patients with traumatic recurrent anterior instability of the shoulder. Patients were randomized into 2 groups; group 1 (28 patients; mean age, 28 years) was managed with 3 weeks of immobilization using an abduction sling and conventional rehabilitation program, and group 2 (34 patients; mean age, 29 years) was managed with an accelerated rehabilitation program that consisted of staged range of motion and strengthening exercises from the immediate postoperative day. Selection criteria were nonathletes with recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation and a classic Bankart lesion with a robust labrum limited to 1 cm from the midglenoid notch. The patients were followed up for a mean of 31 months (range, 27 to 45 months; standard deviation, 9 months). Analysis of outcome included pain scores at 6 weeks and at final follow-up evaluation, range of motion, return to activity, recurrence rate, patient satisfaction with each rehabilitation program, and shoulder scores assessed by the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Shoulder Index, the rating system of the University of California at Los Angeles, and another scoring system. The recurrence rate was not different between the 2 groups (P =.842). None of the groups developed recurrent dislocation. Two patients from each group were positive for anterior apprehension signs. Patients who underwent accelerated rehabilitation resumed functional range of motion faster (P <.001) and returned earlier to the functional level of activity (P <.001). Accelerated rehabilitation decreased postoperative pain (P =.013), and more patients were satisfied with this program (P <.001). Shoulder scores, return to activity, pain score, and range of motion were not different between the 2 groups at the final follow-up evaluation (P >.05). Early mobilization of the operated shoulder after arthroscopic Bankart repair does not increase the recurrence rate in a selected group of patients. Although the final outcomes are approximately the same for both groups, the accelerated rehabilitation program promotes functional recovery and reduces postoperative pain, which allows patients an early return to desired activities.

  12. Teaching medical students how to teach: a national survey of students-as-teachers programs in U.S. medical schools.

    PubMed

    Soriano, Rainier P; Blatt, Benjamin; Coplit, Lisa; CichoskiKelly, Eileen; Kosowicz, Lynn; Newman, Linnie; Pasquale, Susan J; Pretorius, Richard; Rosen, Jonathan M; Saks, Norma S; Greenberg, Larrie

    2010-11-01

    A number of U.S. medical schools started offering formal students-as-teachers (SAT) training programs to assist medical students in their roles as future teachers. The authors report results of a national survey of such programs in the United States. In 2008, a 23-item survey was sent to 130 MD-granting U.S. schools. Responses to selective choice questions were quantitatively analyzed. Open-ended questions about benefits and barriers to SAT programs were given qualitative analyses. Ninety-nine U.S. schools responded. All used their medical students as teachers, but only 44% offered a formal SAT program. Most (95%) offered formal programs in the senior year. Common teaching strategies included small-group work, lectures, role-playing, and direct observation. Common learning content areas were small-group facilitation, feedback, adult learning principles, and clinical skills teaching. Assessment methods included evaluations from student-learners (72%) and direct observation/videotaping (59%). From the qualitative analysis, benefit themes included development of future physician-educators, enhancement of learning, and teaching assistance for faculty. Obstacles were competition with other educational demands, difficulty in faculty recruitment/retention, and difficulty in convincing others of program value. Formal SAT programs exist for 43 of 99 U.S. medical school respondents. Such programs should be instituted in all schools that use their students as teachers. National teaching competencies, best curriculum methods, and best methods to conduct skills reinforcement need to be determined. Finally, the SAT programs' impacts on patient care, on selection decisions of residency directors, and on residents' teaching effectiveness are areas for future research.

  13. Undergraduate cancer training program for underrepresented students: findings from a minority institution/cancer center partnership.

    PubMed

    Coronado, Gloria D; O'Connell, Mary A; Anderson, Jennifer; Löest, Helena; Ogaz, Dana; Thompson, Beti

    2010-03-01

    Students from racially/ethnically diverse backgrounds are underrepresented in graduate programs in biomedical disciplines. One goal of the Minority Institution/Cancer Center partnership between New Mexico State University (NMSU) and the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center (FHCRC) is to expand the number of underrepresented students who are trained in cancer research. As part of the collaboration, a summer internship program has been organized at the FHCRC. The program runs for 9 weeks and involves mentored research, research seminars, coffee breaks, social activities, and a final poster session. This study examined the graduate school attendance rates of past interns, explored interns' perceptions of the training program, and identified ways to improve the program. Thirty undergraduate students enrolled at NMSU participated in the internship program from 2002 to 2007 and telephone interviews were conducted on 22 (73%) of them. One-third of the students were currently in graduate school (32%); the remaining were either working (36%), still in undergraduate school (27%), or unemployed and not in school (5%). Students rated highly the following aspects of the program: mentored research, informal time spent with mentors, and research seminars. Students also reported the following activities would further enhance the program: instruction on writing a personal statement for graduate school and tips in choosing an advisor. Students also desired instruction on taking the GRE/MCAT, receiving advice on selecting a graduate or professional school, and receiving advice on where to apply. These findings can inform the design of internship programs aimed at increasing rates of graduate school attendance among underrepresented students.

  14. USAF Summer Research Program - 1994 Graduate Student Research Program Final Reports, Volume 8, Phillips Laboratory

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1994-12-01

    Research Group at the Phillips Laboratory at Kirtland Air Force Base...for Summer Graduate Student Research Program Phillips Laboratory Sponsored by: Air Force Office of Scientific Research Boiling Air Force Base, DC...2390 S. York Street Denver, CO 80208-0177 Final Report for: Summer Faculty Research Program Phillips Laboratory Sponsored by: Air Force

  15. Laser Technician Associate Degree Program. A Proposal Submitted to Wisconsin State Board of Vocational, Technical, and Adult Education. (Curriculum Development.) Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    North Central Technical Inst., Wausau, WI.

    This final report contains the program proposal with supporting data for developing curriculum materials for and implementing an associate-degree laser technology program at the North Central Technical Institute. The proposal outline provides this information: (1) objectives for the program designed to prepare a technician to safely operate,…

  16. Pre-Placement Program for Severely Multi-Handicapped Deaf-Blind Children, 1980-1981. Final Evaluation Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Tobias, Robert; And Others

    Evaluation of the sixth and final year of operation for a preplacement program for 13 severely multiply handicapped deaf blind children, located in the Industrial Home for the Blind, is reported. The program is explained to prepare students for entrance into their existing special education programs. Qualitative findings on the physical setting,…

  17. A complete denture impression technique survey of postdoctoral prosthodontic programs in the United States.

    PubMed

    Mehra, Mamta; Vahidi, Farhad; Berg, Robert W

    2014-06-01

    The purpose of the study was to survey program directors of postdoctoral prosthodontic programs in the United States regarding their programs' complete denture impression techniques. The key objectives of the survey were to identify the current trends in complete denture impression making and to determine which techniques and materials are taught in US postdoctoral prosthodontic programs. An online survey was sent to all program directors of US postdoctoral prosthodontic programs. The survey comprised two sections: preliminary impressions and final impressions. The survey contained 22 questions that would take approximately 5 minutes to complete. All responses remained anonymous throughout the survey. The response rate for the survey was 87%. A majority of the programs did not separately border mold the tray prior to making the preliminary impressions (82%). The impression material of choice for the preliminary impression was irreversible hydrocolloid (88%). Selective pressure was the predominantly used impression philosophy (80%). All programs border molded the custom tray, and 95% recorded the borders in sections. The material of choice for border molding the custom tray was modeling plastic impression compound (71%). The most commonly used impression material for the final impressions was polyvinylsiloxane (PVS) (42%), and the second most commonly used impression material was polysulphide (32%). The most common technique for locating the posterior palatal seal was marking intraorally and transferring onto the final impression (65%). Most programs routinely advised their patients not to wear their existing dentures for at least 24 hours before the final impressions were made (83%). Based on the results of this study, the following conclusions can be drawn: (1) The most commonly used material for the preliminary impression was irreversible hydrocolloid and for the final impression was PVS. (2) Modeling plastic impression compound was used by most programs to border mold the custom trays. (3) Selective pressure was the predominantly used impression philosophy. (4) A majority of the programs made a special consideration for excessive movable (flabby) tissue. (5) Most programs routinely advised their patients to not wear their existing dentures for at least 24 hours before the final impressions were made. © 2013 by the American College of Prosthodontists.

  18. 340B Drug Pricing Program Ceiling Price and Manufacturer Civil Monetary Penalties Regulation. Final rule; further delay of effective date.

    PubMed

    2017-05-19

    The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) administers section 340B of the Public Health Service Act (PHSA), referred to as the "340B Drug Pricing Program" or the "340B Program." HRSA published a final rule on January 5, 2017, that set forth the calculation of the ceiling price and application of civil monetary penalties. The final rule applied to all drug manufacturers that are required to make their drugs available to covered entities under the 340B Program. In accordance with a January 20, 2017, memorandum from the Assistant to the President and Chief of Staff, entitled "Regulatory Freeze Pending Review," HRSA issued an interim final rule that delayed the effective date of the final rule published in the Federal Register (82 FR 1210, (January 5, 2017)) to May 22, 2017. HHS invited commenters to provide their views on whether a longer delay of the effective date to October 1, 2017, would be more appropriate. After consideration of the comments received on the interim final rule, HHS is delaying the effective date of the January 5, 2017 final rule, to October 1, 2017.

  19. 77 FR 40072 - Assessment of the Program for Enhanced Review Transparency and Communication for New Molecular...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-07-06

    ... DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Food and Drug Administration [Docket No. FDA-2012-N-0603] Assessment of the Program for Enhanced Review Transparency and Communication for New Molecular Entity New... statement of work for an assessment of the Program for Enhanced Review Transparency and Communication for...

  20. 12 CFR 1805.102 - Relationship to other Fund programs.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... Development Financial Institution from receiving assistance under this part. (b) Liquidity enhancement program. No entity that receives assistance through the liquidity enhancement program authorized under section...

  1. Curriculum considerations for enhancing baccalaureate learning for international students.

    PubMed

    Pardue, Karen T; Haas, Barbara

    2003-01-01

    International students studying nursing in the United States present unique teaching opportunities and challenges. Student language, culture, and academic expectations are major factors for faculty to consider in delivering international education. An RN to BSN program provides baccalaureate completion study for registered nurses residing in Israel. Students can choose to complete the final semester in the United States. Israeli nursing students demonstrate a strong collectivistic orientation to their academic work. Issues related to English language fluency and academic paper preparation were identified. Success in international teaching endeavors is facilitated when faculty carefully evaluate course materials and assignments. Clarity of language, cultural expectations, and availability of academic resources are important considerations for promoting student success.

  2. Linear feature extraction from radar imagery: SBIR (Small Business Innovative Research), phase 2, option 2

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Milgram, David L.; Kahn, Philip; Conner, Gary D.; Lawton, Daryl T.

    1988-12-01

    The goal of this effort is to develop and demonstrate prototype processing capabilities for a knowledge-based system to automatically extract and analyze features from Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) imagery. This effort constitutes Phase 2 funding through the Defense Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) Program. Previous work examined the feasibility of and technology issues involved in the development of an automated linear feature extraction system. This final report documents this examination and the technologies involved in automating this image understanding task. In particular, it reports on a major software delivery containing an image processing algorithmic base, a perceptual structures manipulation package, a preliminary hypothesis management framework and an enhanced user interface.

  3. Dynamic biometric identification from multiple views using the GLBP-TOP method.

    PubMed

    Wang, Yu; Shen, Xuanjing; Chen, Haipeng; Zhai, Yujie

    2014-01-01

    To realize effective and rapid dynamic biometric identification with low computational complexity, a video-based facial texture program that extracts local binary patterns from three orthogonal planes in the frequency domain of the Gabor transform (GLBP-TOP) was proposed. Firstly, each normalized face was transformed by Gabor wavelet to get the enhanced Gabor magnitude map, and then the LBP-TOP operator was applied to the maps to extract video texture. Finally, weighted Chi square statistics based on the Fisher Criterion were used to realize the identification. The proposed algorithm was proved effective through the biometric experiments using the Honda/UCSD database, and was robust against changes of illumination and expressions.

  4. 76 FR 1261 - Establishment of the Permanent Certification Program for Health Information Technology

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-01-07

    ...This final rule establishes a permanent certification program for the purpose of certifying health information technology (HIT). This final rule is issued pursuant to the authority granted to the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (the National Coordinator) by section 3001(c)(5) of the Public Health Service Act (PHSA), as added by the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act. The permanent certification program will eventually replace the temporary certification program that was previously established by a final rule. The National Coordinator will use the permanent certification program to authorize organizations to certify electronic health record (EHR) technology, such as Complete EHRs and/or EHR Modules. The permanent certification program could also be expanded to include the certification of other types of HIT.

  5. Urban Extension's New Nontraditional Offering: Parent-Child Reading Enhancement Program

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Brandon, Dorothy P.; Tsamaase, Marea; Humphrey, Ronnie; Crenshaw, Kevin

    2018-01-01

    Urbanization is causing a major shift in Extension's programming throughout the United States. We present results of a nontraditional urban program (the Parent-Child Reading Enhancement Program) that is being implemented by Alabama Cooperative Extension System's Urban Affairs and New Nontraditional Programs unit. Findings suggest that this…

  6. 76 FR 63151 - Small Business Jobs Act: 504 Loan Program Debt Refinancing

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-10-12

    ... SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION 13 CFR Part 120 RIN 3245-AG17 Small Business Jobs Act: 504 Loan Program Debt Refinancing AGENCY: U.S. Small Business Administration. ACTION: Final rule. SUMMARY: This rule finalizes the interim final rule that implemented section 1122 of the Small Business Jobs Act of...

  7. 77 FR 30514 - Native Hawaiian Career and Technical Education Program; Final Waiver and Extension of Project Period

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-05-23

    ... DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Native Hawaiian Career and Technical Education Program; Final Waiver and.... ACTION: Notice. Overview Information Final Waiver and Extension of Project Period for the Native Hawaiian.... SUMMARY: For 36-month projects funded in fiscal year (FY) 2009 under the Native Hawaiian Career and...

  8. 76 FR 6561 - North Carolina: Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program Revisions

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-02-07

    ... Carolina: Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program Revisions AGENCY: Environmental... authorization of the changes to its hazardous waste program under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act... authorization during the comment period, the decision to authorize North Carolina's changes to its hazardous...

  9. 75 FR 45563 - Terrorism Risk Insurance Program; Final Netting

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-08-03

    ... DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY 31 CFR Part 50 RIN 1505-AC24 Terrorism Risk Insurance Program; Final... Title I of the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act of 2002 (``TRIA'' or ``the Act''), as amended by the Terrorism Risk Insurance Extension Act of 2005 (``Extension Act'') and the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program...

  10. 40 CFR 123.45 - Noncompliance and program reporting by the Director.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... (CONTINUED) WATER PROGRAMS STATE PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS Transfer of Information and Permit Review § 123.45... schedule report for final compliance or a monitoring report. This applies when the permittee has failed to submit a final compliance schedule progress report, pretreatment report, or a Discharge Monitoring Report...

  11. 40 CFR 123.45 - Noncompliance and program reporting by the Director.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... (CONTINUED) WATER PROGRAMS STATE PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS Transfer of Information and Permit Review § 123.45... schedule report for final compliance or a monitoring report. This applies when the permittee has failed to submit a final compliance schedule progress report, pretreatment report, or a Discharge Monitoring Report...

  12. 40 CFR 123.45 - Noncompliance and program reporting by the Director.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... (CONTINUED) WATER PROGRAMS STATE PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS Transfer of Information and Permit Review § 123.45... schedule report for final compliance or a monitoring report. This applies when the permittee has failed to submit a final compliance schedule progress report, pretreatment report, or a Discharge Monitoring Report...

  13. 40 CFR 123.45 - Noncompliance and program reporting by the Director.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... (CONTINUED) WATER PROGRAMS STATE PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS Transfer of Information and Permit Review § 123.45... schedule report for final compliance or a monitoring report. This applies when the permittee has failed to submit a final compliance schedule progress report, pretreatment report, or a Discharge Monitoring Report...

  14. 13 CFR 143.25 - Program income.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... ending date of the award reflected in the final financial report. (c) Cost of generating program income... copyrighted material, patents, and inventions developed by a grantee or subgrantee is program income only if... date of the final financial report, see paragraph (a) of this section), unless the terms of the...

  15. 78 FR 15299 - New York: Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program Revision

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-03-11

    ... authorization of changes to its hazardous waste program under the Solid Waste Disposal Act, as amended, commonly... Solid Waste Amendments of 1984 (HSWA). New Federal requirements and prohibitions imposed by Federal...: Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program Revision AGENCY: Environmental...

  16. 75 FR 81187 - South Dakota: Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program Revision

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-12-27

    ...: Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program Revision AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ACTION: Proposed Rule. SUMMARY: The Solid Waste Disposal Act, as amended, commonly... Agency (EPA) to authorize states to operate their hazardous waste management programs in lieu of the...

  17. 75 FR 63655 - Countermeasures Injury Compensation Program (CICP): Administrative Implementation, Interim Final...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-10-15

    ... Administration (HRSA), HHS. ACTION: Interim final rule with request for comments. SUMMARY: The Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act (PREP Act) authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services (the Secretary) to establish the Countermeasures Injury Compensation Program (CICP or Program). The Department of...

  18. Children in Hospitals: A Model Program. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Brill, Nancy; Cohen, Sarale

    This final report describes the rationale, goals and activities of a federally funded project that was designed to develop a model intervention program for hospitalized chronically ill children between birth and five years. The focus of the program was to promote optimal emotional development: attachment, separation, individualization, and…

  19. 20 CFR 411.660 - Is SSA's decision final?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... 20 Employees' Benefits 2 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Is SSA's decision final? 411.660 Section 411.660 Employees' Benefits SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION THE TICKET TO WORK AND SELF-SUFFICIENCY PROGRAM Ticket to Work Program Dispute Resolution Disputes Between Employment Networks and Program Managers § 411...

  20. 20 CFR 411.660 - Is SSA's decision final?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 20 Employees' Benefits 2 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Is SSA's decision final? 411.660 Section 411.660 Employees' Benefits SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION THE TICKET TO WORK AND SELF-SUFFICIENCY PROGRAM Ticket to Work Program Dispute Resolution Disputes Between Employment Networks and Program Managers § 411...

  1. 20 CFR 411.660 - Is SSA's decision final?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... 20 Employees' Benefits 2 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Is SSA's decision final? 411.660 Section 411.660 Employees' Benefits SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION THE TICKET TO WORK AND SELF-SUFFICIENCY PROGRAM Ticket to Work Program Dispute Resolution Disputes Between Employment Networks and Program Managers § 411...

  2. 20 CFR 411.660 - Is SSA's decision final?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... 20 Employees' Benefits 2 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Is SSA's decision final? 411.660 Section 411.660 Employees' Benefits SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION THE TICKET TO WORK AND SELF-SUFFICIENCY PROGRAM Ticket to Work Program Dispute Resolution Disputes Between Employment Networks and Program Managers § 411...

  3. 20 CFR 411.660 - Is SSA's decision final?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... 20 Employees' Benefits 2 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Is SSA's decision final? 411.660 Section 411.660 Employees' Benefits SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION THE TICKET TO WORK AND SELF-SUFFICIENCY PROGRAM Ticket to Work Program Dispute Resolution Disputes Between Employment Networks and Program Managers § 411...

  4. 77 FR 53967 - Medicare and Medicaid Programs; Electronic Health Record Incentive Program-Stage 2

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-09-04

    ...This final rule specifies the Stage 2 criteria that eligible professionals (EPs), eligible hospitals, and critical access hospitals (CAHs) must meet in order to qualify for Medicare and/or Medicaid electronic health record (EHR) incentive payments. In addition, it specifies payment adjustments under Medicare for covered professional services and hospital services provided by EPs, eligible hospitals, and CAHs failing to demonstrate meaningful use of certified EHR technology (CEHRT) and other program participation requirements. This final rule revises certain Stage 1 criteria, as finalized in the July 28, 2010 final rule, as well as criteria that apply regardless of Stage.

  5. 75 FR 18725 - Organization; Eligibility and Scope of Financing; Funding and Fiscal Affairs, Loan Policies and...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-04-12

    ...The Farm Credit Administration (FCA or we) issues this final rule on Farm Credit System (System) bank and association director elections and other voting procedures. The final rule clarifies director election processes and updates FCA regulations to incorporate interpretations made through bookletters to System institutions. It also consolidates general election procedures, clarifies the role of nominating committees, enhances eligibility and disclosure requirements for director candidates, and improves annual meeting information statement instructions. The final rule also adds new regulations on floor nominations and meetings of stockholders. We expect this final rule will increase stockholder participation, enhance impartiality, and strengthen disclosures in director elections.

  6. Gait Training Improves Performance in Healthy Adults Exposed to Novel Discordant Conditions

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Batson, Crystal D.; Brady, Rachel A.; Peters, Brian T.; Mulavara, Ajitkumar P.; Bloomberg, Jacob J.

    2010-01-01

    After they return to Earth, astronauts experience sensorimotor disturbances that disrupt their ability to walk. We have previously shown that training with a variety of sensorimotor adaptive challenges enhances the capability of adapting to novel sensorimotor conditions. We are currently developing a sensorimotor adaptability (SA) training program designed to facilitate recovery of function after gravitational transitions. The purpose of this study was to determine whether trained subjects could transfer learned skills from one discordant visuo-proprioceptive environment to another. During three sessions, subjects walked at 2.5 km/h on a treadmill mounted on a motion base platform. Ten subjects trained with a combination of lateral treadmill translation and superimposed sinusoidal lateral optic flow that was presented on a large screen positioned in front of them. Ten controls completed the same training schedule while viewing only the forward optic flow with no visual or physical oscillation. Twenty minutes after the final training session, all subjects completed a 2-minute trial with a novel combination of visual and treadmill roll perturbations not previously experienced during the training (Transfer Test). Compared to the untrained group, participants who received SA training showed faster reaction times and, based on a composite score derived from stride frequency, heart rate, and reaction time, an overall enhanced performance. Our results showed that an SA training program can improve overall walking performance when subjects are exposed to novel incongruent sensory environments. This training has application for both enhancing adaptive responses in astronauts and reducing fall and injury risk in the elderly.

  7. Day treatment versus enhanced standard methadone services for opioid-dependent patients: a comparison of clinical efficacy and cost.

    PubMed

    Avants, S K; Margolin, A; Sindelar, J L; Rounsaville, B J; Schottenfeld, R; Stine, S; Cooney, N L; Rosenheck, R A; Li, S H; Kosten, T R

    1999-01-01

    This study examined the differential efficacy and relative costs of two intensities of adjunctive psychosocial services--a day treatment program and enhanced standard care--for the treatment of opioid-dependent patients maintained on methadone hydrochloride. A 12-week randomized clinical trial with 6-month follow-up was conducted in a community-based methadone maintenance program. Of the 308 patients who met inclusion criteria, 291 began treatment (day treatment program: N=145; enhanced standard care: N=146), and 237 completed treatment (82% of those assigned to the day treatment program and 81% of those receiving enhanced standard care). Two hundred twenty of the patients participated in the 6-month follow-up (75% of those in the day treatment program and 73% of those in enhanced standard care provided a follow-up urine sample for screening). Both interventions were 12 weeks in duration, manual-guided, and provided by master's-level clinicians. The day treatment was an intensive, 25-hour-per-week program. The enhanced standard care was standard methadone maintenance plus a weekly skills training group and referral to on- and off-site services. Outcome measures included twice weekly urine toxicology screens, severity of addiction-related problems, prevalence of HIV risk behaviors, and program costs. Although the cost of the day treatment program was significantly higher, there was no significant difference in the two groups' use of either opiates or cocaine. Over the course of treatment, drug use, drug-related problems, and HIV risk behaviors decreased significantly for patients assigned to both treatment intensities. Improvements were maintained at follow-up. Providing an intensive day treatment program to unemployed, inner-city methadone patients was not cost-effective relative to a program of enhanced methadone maintenance services, which produced comparable outcomes at less than half the cost.

  8. Enhancing Digital Fluency through a Training Program for Creative Problem Solving Using Computer Programming

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kim, SugHee; Chung, KwangSik; Yu, HeonChang

    2013-01-01

    The purpose of this paper is to propose a training program for creative problem solving based on computer programming. The proposed program will encourage students to solve real-life problems through a creative thinking spiral related to cognitive skills with computer programming. With the goal of enhancing digital fluency through this proposed…

  9. Understanding refraction contrast using a comparison of absorption and refraction computed tomographic techniques

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wiebe, S.; Rhoades, G.; Wei, Z.; Rosenberg, A.; Belev, G.; Chapman, D.

    2013-05-01

    Refraction x-ray contrast is an imaging modality used primarily in a research setting at synchrotron facilities, which have a biomedical imaging research program. The most common method for exploiting refraction contrast is by using a technique called Diffraction Enhanced Imaging (DEI). The DEI apparatus allows the detection of refraction between two materials and produces a unique ''edge enhanced'' contrast appearance, very different from the traditional absorption x-ray imaging used in clinical radiology. In this paper we aim to explain the features of x-ray refraction contrast as a typical clinical radiologist would understand. Then a discussion regarding what needs to be considered in the interpretation of the refraction image takes place. Finally we present a discussion about the limitations of planar refraction imaging and the potential of DEI Computed Tomography. This is an original work that has not been submitted to any other source for publication. The authors have no commercial interests or conflicts of interest to disclose.

  10. Cirrus properties deduced from CO2 lidar observations of zenith-enhanced backscatter from oriented crystals

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Eberhard, Wynn L.

    1993-01-01

    Many lidar researchers have occasionally observed zenith-enhanced backscatter (ZEB) from middle and high clouds. The ZEB signature consists of strong backscatter when the lidar is pointed directly at zenith and a dramatic decline in backscatter as the zenith angle dips slightly off zenith. Mirror-like reflection from horizontal facets of oriented crystals (especially plates) is generally accepted as the cause. It was found during a 3-year observation program that approximately 50 percent of ice clouds had ZEB, regardless of cloud height. The orientation of crystals and the ZEB they cause are important to study and understand for several reasons. First, radiative transfer in clouds with oriented crystals is different than if the same particles were randomly oriented. Second, crystal growth depends partly on the orientation of the particles. Third, ZEB measurements may provide useful information about cirrus microphysical and radiative properties. Finally, the remarkable effect of ZEB on lidar signals should be understood in order to properly interpret lidar data.

  11. Critical technology experiment results for lightweight space heat receiver

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Schneider, Michael G.; Brege, Mark A.; Heidenreich, Gary R.

    1991-01-01

    Critical technology experiments have been performed on thermal energy storage modules in support of the NASA Advanced Solar Dynamic Brayton Heat Receiver Program. The modules, wedge-shaped canisters containing lithium fluoride (LiF), were designed to minimize the mechanical stresses that occur during the phase change of the LiF. Nickel foam inserts were placed in two of the test canisters to provide thermal conductivity enhancement and to distribute the void volume throughout the canister. A procedure was developed for reducing the nickel oxides on the nickel foam to enhance the wicking ability of the foam. The canisters were filled with LiF and closure-welded at the NASA Lewis Research Center. Two canisters, one with a nickel foam insert, the other without an insert, were thermally cycled in various orientations in a fluidized bed furnace. Computer-aided tomography was successfully used to nondestructively determine void locations in the canisters. Finally, canister dimensional stability was measured after thermal cycling with an inspection fixture.

  12. Efficient GO2/GH2 Injector Design: A NASA, Industry and University Cooperative Effort

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Tucker, P. K.; Klem, M. D.; Fisher, S. C.; Santoro, R. J.

    1997-01-01

    Developing new propulsion components in the face of shrinking budgets presents a significant challenge. The technical, schedule and funding issues common to any design/development program are complicated by the ramifications of the continuing decrease in funding for the aerospace industry. As a result, new working arrangements are evolving in the rocket industry. This paper documents a successful NASA, industry, and university cooperative effort to design efficient high performance GO2/GH2 rocket injector elements in the current budget environment. The NASA Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) Program initially consisted of three vehicle/engine concepts targeted at achieving single stage to orbit. One of the Rocketdyne propulsion concepts, the RS 2100 engine, used a full-flow staged-combustion cycle. Therefore, the RS 2100 main injector would combust GO2/GH 2 propellants. Early in the design phase, but after budget levels and contractual arrangements had been set the limitations of the current gas/gas injector database were identified. Most of the relevant information was at least twenty years old. Designing high performance injectors to meet the RS 2100 requirements would require the database to be updated and significantly enhanced. However, there was no funding available to address the need for more data. NASA proposed a teaming arrangement to acquire the updated information without additional funds from the RLV Program. A determination of the types and amounts of data needed was made along with test facilities with capabilities to meet the data requirements, budget constraints, and schedule. After several iterations a program was finalized and a team established to satisfy the program goals. The Gas/Gas Injector Technology (GGIT) Program had the overall goal of increasing the ability of the rocket engine community to design efficient high-performance, durable gas/gas injectors relevant to RLV requirements. First, the program would provide Rocketdyne with data on preliminary gas/gas injector designs which would enable discrimination among candidate injector designs. Secondly, the program would enhance the national gas/gas database by obtaining high-quality data that increases the understanding of gas/gas injector physics and is suitable for computational fluid dynamics (CFD) code validation. The third program objective was to validate CFD codes for future gas/gas injector design in the RLV program.

  13. Fundamental techniques for resolution enhancement of average subsampled images

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shen, Day-Fann; Chiu, Chui-Wen

    2012-07-01

    Although single image resolution enhancement, otherwise known as super-resolution, is widely regarded as an ill-posed inverse problem, we re-examine the fundamental relationship between a high-resolution (HR) image acquisition module and its low-resolution (LR) counterpart. Analysis shows that partial HR information is attenuated but still exists, in its LR version, through the fundamental averaging-and-subsampling process. As a result, we propose a modified Laplacian filter (MLF) and an intensity correction process (ICP) as the pre and post process, respectively, with an interpolation algorithm to partially restore the attenuated information in a super-resolution (SR) enhanced image image. Experiments show that the proposed MLF and ICP provide significant and consistent quality improvements on all 10 test images with three well known interpolation methods including bilinear, bi-cubic, and the SR graphical user interface program provided by Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne. The proposed MLF and ICP are simple in implementation and generally applicable to all average-subsampled LR images. MLF and ICP, separately or together, can be integrated into most interpolation methods that attempt to restore the original HR contents. Finally, the idea of MLF and ICP can also be applied for average, subsampled one-dimensional signal.

  14. Determining Behavioral Task Content of the Curriculum in Occupational and Professional Education Programs: The Dental Auxiliaries. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Terry, David R.; Evans, Rupert N.

    The document is the final report of a project to develop a suitable method for studying the task content of accredited dental auxiliary education programs and the relationship between the tasks taught in such programs and the tasks involved in a professional situation. The set of instruments developed and pilot tested in 63 programs was used to…

  15. Final Requirements--School Improvement Grants--Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965. Final Rule. Federal Register, Part IV, Department of Education, 34 CFR Chapter II

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    National Archives and Records Administration, 2015

    2015-01-01

    The Assistant Secretary for Elementary and Secondary Education adopts final requirements for the School Improvement Grants (SIG) program, authorized under section 1003(g) of title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, as amended (ESEA). These final requirements make changes to the current SIG program requirements and implement…

  16. 34 CFR 611.2 - What management plan must be included in a Teacher Quality Enhancement Grants Program application?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... TEACHER QUALITY ENHANCEMENT GRANTS PROGRAM General Provisions § 611.2 What management plan must be... 34 Education 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false What management plan must be included in a Teacher Quality Enhancement Grants Program application? 611.2 Section 611.2 Education Regulations of the Offices...

  17. The Use of Art and Music Therapy in Substance Abuse Treatment Programs

    PubMed Central

    Aletraris, Lydia; Paino, Maria; Edmond, Mary Bond; Roman, Paul M.; Bride, Brian E.

    2014-01-01

    While the implementation of evidence-based practices (EBPs) in the treatment of substance use disorders (SUD) has attracted substantial research attention, little consideration has been given to parallel implementation of complementary and alternative medical (CAM) practices. Using data from a nationally representative sample (N = 299) of U.S. substance abuse treatment programs, this study modeled organizational factors falling in the domains of patient characteristics, treatment ideologies, and structural characteristics, associated with the use of art therapy and music therapy. We found that 36.8% of treatment programs offered art therapy and 14.7% of programs offered music therapy. Programs with a greater proportion of women were more likely to use both therapies, and programs with larger proportions of adolescents were more likely to offer music therapy. In terms of other treatment ideologies, programs’ use of Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) was positively related to offering art therapy, while use of Contingency Management (CM) was positively associated with offering music therapy. Finally, our findings showed a significant relationship between requiring 12-step meetings and the use of both art therapy and music therapy. With increasing use of CAM in a diverse range of medical settings, and recent federal legislation likely to reduce barriers in accessing CAM, the inclusion of CAM in addiction treatment is growing in importance. Our findings suggest treatment programs may be utilizing art and music therapies to address unique patient needs of women and adolescents. PMID:25514689

  18. Health information technology: standards, implementation specifications, and certification criteria for electronic health record technology, 2014 edition; revisions to the permanent certification program for health information technology. Final rule.

    PubMed

    2012-09-04

    With this final rule, the Secretary of Health and Human Services adopts certification criteria that establish the technical capabilities and specify the related standards and implementation specifications that Certified Electronic Health Record (EHR) Technology will need to include to, at a minimum, support the achievement of meaningful use by eligible professionals, eligible hospitals, and critical access hospitals under the Medicare and Medicaid EHR Incentive Programs beginning with the EHR reporting periods in fiscal year and calendar year 2014. This final rule also makes changes to the permanent certification program for health information technology, including changing the program's name to the ONC HIT Certification Program.

  19. 4-H Youth Programs - Enhancing the Quality of Life.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Pilat, Mary

    Indiana 4-H Youth Programs are being used to enhance the quality of life for troubled adolescents in residential group homes and economically disadvantaged urban areas and to provide summer-school programs for children of migrant farm workers. Four basic types of program delivery modes exist in Indiana: clubs, junior leader program activities,…

  20. Applying the concept of quality of life to Israeli special education programs: a national curriculum for enhanced autonomy in students with special needs.

    PubMed

    Reiter, Shunit; Schalock, Robert L

    2008-03-01

    This study provides a description of the design and development of guidelines and programs for a national core curriculum for special education in Israel. Israel was exposed during the 1970s to the ideology of normalization. Later on, toward the end of the 1980s, the concept of quality of life was added. Several research studies were conducted, resulting in the following core ideas about education: a shift of emphasis from teaching independent-living skills to teaching autonomy, self-awareness, self-direction, and interdependence is required. On the basis of these ideas, a new model of instruction was devised and termed the 'cycle of internalized learning' (CIL). The CIL is based on a holistic orientation toward the student and builds on abilities rather than disabilities. The peer group is the basic unit of instruction. Attention is on processes and outcomes. The CIL involves several clearly defined teaching steps: (i) opening--the presentation of the subject matter; (ii) discussion--a conceptual analysis of the subject; (iii) open conversation--students discuss the issues they raised during the first session, express their personal life experiences while applying the new concepts they learned, and suggest possible solutions to problems; (iv) trying out the solutions suggested by students; and (v) repeated discussions, to arrive at personal and social conclusions. Currently there are three published units of the CIL: (i) Social Education, (ii) Career Education, and (iii) Towards Leaving Home for Independent Living in the Community. The fourth unit, on citizenship education through the use of computers, is in its final stages of preparation. The success of the implementation of the program is expressed both at the students' level--as an enhanced sense of self-worth and self-confidence, as well as enhanced academic achievements and social skills--and at the teachers' level--as a paradigm shift from a medical model of approach to students with disabilities to a social and humanistic one.

  1. Implementation cost analysis of a community-based exercise program for seniors in South Florida.

    PubMed

    Page, Timothy F; Batra, Anamica; Ghouse, Muddasir M; Palmer, Richard C

    2014-07-01

    The objective of the study was to measure the costs of implementing the EnhanceFitness program to elderly residents of South Florida. The Health Foundation of South Florida's Healthy Aging Regional Collaborative implemented EnhanceFitness as part of their initiative to make evidence-based healthy aging programs available to South Florida seniors. Cost data were collected from agencies participating in the delivery of EnhanceFitness classes in South Florida. Cost questionnaires were e-mailed to program coordinators from agencies participating in the delivery of EnhanceFitness classes. Program coordinators worked with accounting staff to complete the questionnaires. Questionnaires were returned via e-mail. Costs were presented from the perspective of participating agencies. Total costs were divided by the number of classes being offered by each agency to determine cost per class per month. Average monthly costs per class were $1,713 during the first year of implementation and $873 during the second year of implementation. The cost measurements, combined with information from the literature on cost savings attributable to EnhanceFitness participation, suggest that EnhanceFitness has the potential to generate a net societal cost savings among program participants. The results are useful for community agencies considering implementing EnhanceFitness for their populations. © 2014 Society for Public Health Education.

  2. Medicare program; requirements for providers and suppliers to establish and maintain Medicare enrollment. Final rule.

    PubMed

    2006-04-21

    This final rule requires that all providers and suppliers (other than physicians or practitioners who have elected to "opt-out" of the Medicare program) complete an enrollment form and submit specific information to us. This final rule also requires that all providers and suppliers periodically update and certify the accuracy of their enrollment information to receive and maintain billing privileges in the Medicare program. In addition, this final rule implements provisions in the statute that require us to ensure that all Medicare providers and suppliers are qualified to provide the appropriate health care services. These statutory provisions include requirements meant to protect beneficiaries and the Medicare Trust Funds by preventing unqualified, fraudulent, or excluded providers and suppliers from providing items or services to Medicare beneficiaries or billing the Medicare program or its beneficiaries.

  3. Enhancement of the Probabilistic CEramic Matrix Composite ANalyzer (PCEMCAN) Computer Code

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Shah, Ashwin

    2000-01-01

    This report represents a final technical report for Order No. C-78019-J entitled "Enhancement of the Probabilistic Ceramic Matrix Composite Analyzer (PCEMCAN) Computer Code." The scope of the enhancement relates to including the probabilistic evaluation of the D-Matrix terms in MAT2 and MAT9 material properties card (available in CEMCAN code) for the MSC/NASTRAN. Technical activities performed during the time period of June 1, 1999 through September 3, 1999 have been summarized, and the final version of the enhanced PCEMCAN code and revisions to the User's Manual is delivered along with. Discussions related to the performed activities were made to the NASA Project Manager during the performance period. The enhanced capabilities have been demonstrated using sample problems.

  4. Sub-Project 7 of Wisconsin 553, Part F, EPDA--Industry/Exchange Program: Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wisconsin Univ. - Stout, Menomonie. Center for Vocational, Technical and Adult Education.

    The final report describes a study to develop a statewide teacher/industry exchange program in Wisconsin that would provide vocational-technical instructors with occupational experience opportunities. Three plans for implementing the program were developed: (A) swapping the positions of a business or industrial person with that of a vocational…

  5. Exemplary Programs for the Handicapped. Volume I. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Freedman, Ruth; And Others

    Presented is the final report of a study which assessed the effectiveness of 50 Bureau of Education for the Handicapped programs and selected 17 of the programs as providing exemplary services for handicapped people in the areas of career education, early childhood education, and manpower development. Considered separately are the three phases of…

  6. The ROCTAPUS Closed-Circuit Television Program Final Report. Priority Country Area Program Evaluation Series: Report No. 10.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lamont, Ann; Fowler, Clifford F.

    Two 1980 surveys of school staff, team member interviews, and examination of project films and documents supplied information for final evaluation of the ROCTAPUS (Really Outstanding Color Television About Practically Unlimited Subjects) program, a closed-circuit, magazine format, videotaped, television series intended to enrich the experiential…

  7. 76 FR 74076 - Notice of Random Assignment Study To Evaluate the YouthBuild Program; Final Notice

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-11-30

    ... Evaluate the YouthBuild Program; Final Notice AGENCY: Employment and Training Administration (ETA), Labor... rigorous, nationally-representative estimates of the net impacts of the YouthBuild program. The Department... study. In the sites randomly selected to participate in this evaluation, all applicants for YouthBuild...

  8. 76 FR 42121 - Final Notice of a Finding of No Significant Impact for a Programmatic Environmental Assessment...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-07-18

    ... for a Programmatic Environmental Assessment Implementing a Wind Energy Program at Marine Forces... Wind Energy Program at Marine Forces Reserve (MARFORRES) Facilities Located Across the United States... final notice that the FONSI for the PEA implementing the MARFORRES Wind Energy Program will not have a...

  9. 78 FR 75961 - Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedures for Electric Motors

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-12-13

    ... Conservation Program: Test Procedures for Electric Motors; Final Rule #0;#0;Federal Register / Vol. 78 , No... CFR Part 431 [Docket No. EERE-2012-BT-TP-0043] RIN 1904-AC89 Energy Conservation Program: Test.... ACTION: Final rule. SUMMARY: The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is amending the energy efficiency test...

  10. 78 FR 15338 - New York: Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program Revisions

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-03-11

    ... authorization of changes to its hazardous waste program under the Solid Waste Disposal Act, as amended, commonly... ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY 40 CFR Part 271 [EPA-R02-RCRA-2013-0144; FRL-9693-3] New York: Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program Revisions AGENCY: Environmental...

  11. 76 FR 81360 - Cooperative Inspection Programs: Interstate Shipment of Meat and Poultry Products; Correction

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-12-28

    .... FSIS-2008-0039] RIN 0583-AD37 Cooperative Inspection Programs: Interstate Shipment of Meat and Poultry... to ship meat and poultry products in interstate commerce. The final rule was published in the Federal... the Federal Register, the final rule, ``Cooperative Inspection Programs; Interstate Shipment of Meat...

  12. 77 FR 30512 - Native American Career and Technical Education Program; Final Waivers and Extension of Project...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-05-23

    ... DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Native American Career and Technical Education Program; Final Waivers and... American Career and Technical Education Program Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number: 84.101A. SUMMARY: For 60-month projects funded in fiscal year (FY) 2007 under the Native American Career...

  13. Enhancing the effectiveness of diabetes self-management education: the diabetes literacy project.

    PubMed

    Van den Broucke, S; Van der Zanden, G; Chang, P; Doyle, G; Levin, D; Pelikan, J; Schillinger, D; Schwarz, P; Sørensen, K; Yardley, L; Riemenschneider, H

    2014-12-01

    Patient empowerment through self-management education is central to improving the quality of diabetes care and preventing Type 2 Diabetes. Although national programs exist, there is no EU-wide strategy for diabetes self-management education, and patients with limited literacy face barriers to effective self-management. The Diabetes Literacy project, initiated with the support of the European Commission, aims to fill this gap. The project investigates the effectiveness of diabetes self-management education, targeting people with or at risk of Type 2 Diabetes in the 28 EU Member States, as part of a comprehensive EU-wide diabetes strategy. National diabetes strategies in the EU, US, Taiwan, and Israel are compared, and diabetes self-management programs inventorized. The costs of the diabetes care pathway are assessed on a per person basis at national level. A comparison is made of the (cost)-effectiveness of different methods for diabetes self-management support, and the moderating role of health literacy, organization of the health services, and implementation fidelity of education programs are considered. Web-based materials are developed and evaluated by randomized trials to evaluate if interactive internet delivery can enhance self-management support for people with lower levels of health literacy. The 3-year project started in December 2012. Several literature reviews have been produced and protocol development and research design are in the final stages. Primary and secondary data collection and analysis take place in 2014. The results will inform policy decisions on improving the prevention, treatment, and care for persons with diabetes across literacy levels. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

  14. Half-unit weighted bilinear algorithm for image contrast enhancement in capsule endoscopy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rukundo, Olivier

    2018-04-01

    This paper proposes a novel enhancement method based exclusively on the bilinear interpolation algorithm for capsule endoscopy images. The proposed method does not convert the original RBG image components to HSV or any other color space or model; instead, it processes directly RGB components. In each component, a group of four adjacent pixels and half-unit weight in the bilinear weighting function are used to calculate the average pixel value, identical for each pixel in that particular group. After calculations, groups of identical pixels are overlapped successively in horizontal and vertical directions to achieve a preliminary-enhanced image. The final-enhanced image is achieved by halving the sum of the original and preliminary-enhanced image pixels. Quantitative and qualitative experiments were conducted focusing on pairwise comparisons between original and enhanced images. Final-enhanced images have generally the best diagnostic quality and gave more details about the visibility of vessels and structures in capsule endoscopy images.

  15. A Study of NSF Teacher Enhancement Program (TEP) Participants and Principal Investigators: 1984-1989. Volume I: Summary Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Abt Associates, Inc., Cambridge, MA.

    The National Science Foundation (NSF) supported more than 600 inservice teacher training programs between 1984 and 1989 under its Teacher Enhancement Program (TEP). Two studies were undertaken of TEP: the first was a survey of the 600 Principal Investigators (PIs) who had operated inservice teacher enhancement projects and the second, a survey of…

  16. EPA Finalizes Voluntary Quality Assurance Plan for Renewable Fuel Standard Program

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    The rule finalizes a voluntary third-party quality assurance program option for RINs that regulated parties may exercise as a supplement to the “buyer beware” liability as prescribed under existing regulations.

  17. FINAL Progress Report DOE Grant DE-FG02-04ER15587

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

    Mullins, Charles Buddie

    Catalysis Program - Viviane Schwartz Program Manager This Final Report discusses several archival journal articles that have been published that present and discuss the results that were discovered through this DOE grant.

  18. Seven Activities for Enhancing the Replicability of Evidence-Based Practices. Research-to-Results Brief. Publication #2007-30

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Metz, Allison J. R.; Bowie, Lillian; Blase, Karen

    2007-01-01

    This brief will define program replication, describe the critical role of "core components" in program replication, and outline seven activities that program developers and researchers can conduct to enhance the replicability of effective program models and facilitate their adoption by other organizations and programs. Outlined is seven specific…

  19. Assessment of the efficacy of nonablative long-pulsed 1064-nm Nd:YAG laser treatment of wrinkles compared at 2, 4, and 6 months.

    PubMed

    Trelles, M A; Alvarez, X; Martín-Vázquez, M J; Trelles, O; Velez, M; Levy, J L; Allones, I

    2005-05-01

    Rhytides represent an aesthetic problem for a large percentage of the population. Many methods, both noninvasive and invasive, have been used for the treatment of wrinkles. Recently, the long-pulsed 1064-nm Nd:YAG laser has been shown to enhance dermal collagen synthesis without damaging the epidermis. The purpose of this preliminary study is to evaluate the use of the long-pulsed Nd:YAG laser in the nonablative treatment of periocular and perioral wrinkles. Ten patients with facial wrinkles were treated with the long-pulsed 1064-nm Nd:YAG laser, at a spot size of 5 mm in diameter, energy density of 13 J/cm2, exposure time per pulse of 300 microseconds, and a repetition rate of 7 Hz. All patients had a total of three treatments, once every 2 weeks. Subjective (patient satisfaction index [SI]) and objective (both physician- and computer program-based clinical index [CI]) assessments were performed before the first and third treatment sessions, and at 2, 4, and 6 months after the last treatment. At 6 months after the final treatment session, the patients' subjective SI was maintained at 40%, and had peaked at 50% 2 months after the final session. Physician assessment showed a CI of 40% at the 6-month assessment point and the computer program showed a 50% CI. The greatest level of effect with long-pulsed Nd:YAG laser nonablative skin rejuvenation for facial wrinkles was seen 2 months after the final treatment. Effects were still visible at the 6-month period, but showed a tendency to decrease. Maintenance treatments are required to achieve good patient satisfaction.

  20. 78 FR 79654 - Vermont: Proposed Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program Revisions

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-12-31

    ...EPA proposes to grant final authorization to the State of Vermont for changes to its hazardous waste program. In the ``Rules and Regulations'' section of this Federal Register we are authorizing the changes to the Vermont hazardous waste program under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) as a direct final rule without prior proposed rule. EPA has determined that these changes satisfy all requirements needed to qualify for final authorization. If we receive no adverse comment, we will not take further action on this proposed rule.

  1. Enhanced surveillance strategies for detecting and monitoring chronic wasting disease in free-ranging cervids

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Walsh, Daniel P.

    2012-01-01

    The purpose of this document is to provide wildlife management agencies with the foundation upon which they can build scientifically rigorous and cost-effective surveillance and monitoring programs for chronic wasting disease (CWD) or refine their existing programs. The first chapter provides an overview of potential demographic and spatial risk factors of susceptible wildlife populations that may be exploited for CWD surveillance and monitoring. The information contained in this chapter explores historic as well as recent developments in our understanding of CWD disease dynamics. It also contains many literature references for readers who may desire a more thorough review of the topics or CWD in general. The second chapter examines methods for enhancing efforts to detect CWD on the landscape where it is not presently known to exist and focuses on the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the surveillance program. Specifically, it describes the means of exploiting current knowledge of demographic and spatial risk factors, as described in the first chapter, through a two-stage surveillance scheme that utilizes traditional design-based sampling approaches and novel statistical methods to incorporate information about the attributes of the landscape, environment, populations and individual animals into CWD surveillance activities. By accounting for these attributes, efficiencies can be gained and cost-savings can be realized. The final chapter is unique in relation to the first two chapters. Its focus is on designing programs to monitor CWD once it is discovered within a jurisdiction. Unlike the prior chapters that are more detailed or prescriptive, this chapter by design is considerably more general because providing comprehensive direction for creating monitoring programs for jurisdictions without consideration of their monitoring goals, sociopolitical constraints, or their biological systems, is not possible. Therefore, the authors draw upon their collective experiences implementing disease-monitoring programs to present the important questions to consider, potential tools, and various strategies for those wildlife management agencies endeavoring to create or maintain a CWD monitoring program. Its intent is to aid readers in creating efficient and cost-effective monitoring programs, while avoiding potential pitfalls. It is hoped that these three chapters will be useful tools for wildlife managers struggling to implement efficient and effective CWD disease management programs.

  2. [Predictors of Resilience in Adolescents with Leukemia].

    PubMed

    Hong, Sung Sil; Park, Ho Ran

    2015-08-01

    The purpose of this study was to identify the factors relating to resilience for adolescents with leukemia and examine the relationship between these factors. From June to September in 2014, 199 adolescents aged 11 to 21 participated in the study as they visited the out-patient clinic at C university hospital for follow-up care. To verify the predictors and the effects of resilience, uncertainty, symptom distress, perceived social support, spiritual perspective, defensive coping, courageous coping, hope, and self-transcendence were measured. Collected data were analyzed using hierarchical regression analysis with the SAS statistics program. The final regression model showed that courageous coping, hope, and self-transcendence were significant predictors related to resilience in adolescents with leukemia and explained for 63% of the variance in resilience. The findings indicate that adolescent-oriented intervention programs enhancing courageous coping, hope, and self-transcendence should be provide for adolescents with leukemia in order to overcome illness-related stress and support physical, psychological and social adjustment.

  3. NASA Programs in Advanced Sensors and Measurement Technology for Aeronautical Applications

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Conway, Bruce A.

    2004-01-01

    There are many challenges facing designers and operators of our next-generation aircraft in meeting the demands for efficiency, safety, and reliability which are will be imposed. This paper discusses aeronautical sensor requirements for a number of research and applications areas pertinent to the demands listed above. A brief overview will be given of aeronautical research measurements, along with a discussion of requirements for advanced technology. Also included will be descriptions of emerging sensors and instrumentation technology which may be exploited for enhanced research and operational capabilities. Finally, renewed emphasis of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration in advanced sensor and instrumentation technology development will be discussed, including project of technology advances over the next 5 years. Emphasis on NASA efforts to more actively advance the state-of-the-art in sensors and measurement techniques is timely in light of exciting new opportunities in airspace development and operation. An up-to-date summary of the measurement technology programs being established to respond to these opportunities is provided.

  4. Color postprocessing for 3-dimensional finite element mesh quality evaluation and evolving graphical workstation

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Panthaki, Malcolm J.

    1987-01-01

    Three general tasks on general-purpose, interactive color graphics postprocessing for three-dimensional computational mechanics were accomplished. First, the existing program (POSTPRO3D) is ported to a high-resolution device. In the course of this transfer, numerous enhancements are implemented in the program. The performance of the hardware was evaluated from the point of view of engineering postprocessing, and the characteristics of future hardware were discussed. Second, interactive graphical tools implemented to facilitate qualitative mesh evaluation from a single analysis. The literature was surveyed and a bibliography compiled. Qualitative mesh sensors were examined, and the use of two-dimensional plots of unaveraged responses on the surface of three-dimensional continua was emphasized in an interactive color raster graphics environment. Finally, a postprocessing environment was designed for state-of-the-art workstation technology. Modularity, personalization of the environment, integration of the engineering design processes, and the development and use of high-level graphics tools are some of the features of the intended environment.

  5. Medicare and Medicaid programs: hospital outpatient prospective payment; ambulatory surgical center payment; hospital value-based purchasing program; physician self-referral; and patient notification requirements in provider agreements. Final rule with comment period.

    PubMed

    2011-11-30

    This final rule with comment period revises the Medicare hospital outpatient prospective payment system (OPPS) for CY 2012 to implement applicable statutory requirements and changes arising from our continuing experience with this system. In this final rule with comment period, we describe the changes to the amounts and factors used to determine the payment rates for Medicare hospital outpatient services paid under the OPPS. In addition, this final rule with comment period updates the revised Medicare ambulatory surgical center (ASC) payment system to implement applicable statutory requirements and changes arising from our continuing experience with this system. In this final rule with comment period, we set forth the relative payment weights and payment amounts for services furnished in ASCs, specific HCPCS codes to which these changes apply, and other ratesetting information for the CY 2012 ASC payment system. We are revising the requirements for the Hospital Outpatient Quality Reporting (OQR) Program, adding new requirements for ASC Quality Reporting System, and making additional changes to provisions of the Hospital Inpatient Value-Based Purchasing (VBP) Program. We also are allowing eligible hospitals and CAHs participating in the Medicare Electronic Health Record (EHR) Incentive Program to meet the clinical quality measure reporting requirement of the EHR Incentive Program for payment year 2012 by participating in the 2012 Medicare EHR Incentive Program Electronic Reporting Pilot. Finally, we are making changes to the rules governing the whole hospital and rural provider exceptions to the physician self-referral prohibition for expansion of facility capacity and changes to provider agreement regulations on patient notification requirements.

  6. Enhanced Vapor-Phase Diffusion in Porous Media - LDRD Final Report

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

    Ho, C.K.; Webb, S.W.

    1999-01-01

    As part of the Laboratory-Directed Research and Development (LDRD) Program at Sandia National Laboratories, an investigation into the existence of enhanced vapor-phase diffusion (EVD) in porous media has been conducted. A thorough literature review was initially performed across multiple disciplines (soil science and engineering), and based on this review, the existence of EVD was found to be questionable. As a result, modeling and experiments were initiated to investigate the existence of EVD. In this LDRD, the first mechanistic model of EVD was developed which demonstrated the mechanisms responsible for EVD. The first direct measurements of EVD have also been conductedmore » at multiple scales. Measurements have been made at the pore scale, in a two- dimensional network as represented by a fracture aperture, and in a porous medium. Significant enhancement of vapor-phase transport relative to Fickian diffusion was measured in all cases. The modeling and experimental results provide additional mechanisms for EVD beyond those presented by the generally accepted model of Philip and deVries (1957), which required a thermal gradient for EVD to exist. Modeling and experimental results show significant enhancement under isothermal conditions. Application of EVD to vapor transport in the near-surface vadose zone show a significant variation between no enhancement, the model of Philip and deVries, and the present results. Based on this information, the model of Philip and deVries may need to be modified, and additional studies are recommended.« less

  7. Health: the basic right of every child.

    PubMed

    Tandon, B N

    1989-01-01

    Through the efforts of organizations such as the National Children's Board, the health of children in India has shown considerable improvement in the post-independence period. The Integrated Child Development Services Program, launched in 1975, has brought together government and voluntary organizations in multisectoral, comprehensive activities aimed at enhancing children's physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being. Nonetheless, on essential child health indicators, India falls behind many other developing countries with even fewer technical resources. India's perinatal, neonatal, infant, and under-5 mortality rates stand at 84, 65, 95 and 152/1000, respectively. 30% of infants are low birthweight. 35% of children under 5 suffer from malnutrition and only 17% receive measles vaccination. 62% of Indian children do not complete primary school. These inadequacies persist despite programs directed at prenatal care, breastfeeding promotion, immunization, supplementary nutrition to preschoolers, iron and folic acid tablet distribution, oral rehydration for diarrhea, management of acute respiratory infection, safe drinking water, and preschool education. For these programs to have the intended impact, coordination and management must be improved at the village level. The mass media and village-level health workers must be enlisted in outreach activities to reach mothers with messages on child health and nutrition. Finally, any efforts to improve child health must be accompanied by family planning programs.

  8. The Linear Programming to evaluate the performance of Oral Health in Primary Care.

    PubMed

    Colussi, Claudia Flemming; Calvo, Maria Cristina Marino; Freitas, Sergio Fernando Torres de

    2013-01-01

    To show the use of Linear Programming to evaluate the performance of Oral Health in Primary Care. This study used data from 19 municipalities of Santa Catarina city that participated of the state evaluation in 2009 and have more than 50,000 habitants. A total of 40 indicators were evaluated, calculated using the Microsoft Excel 2007, and converted to the interval [0, 1] in ascending order (one indicating the best situation and zero indicating the worst situation). Applying the Linear Programming technique municipalities were assessed and compared among them according to performance curve named "quality estimated frontier". Municipalities included in the frontier were classified as excellent. Indicators were gathered, and became synthetic indicators. The majority of municipalities not included in the quality frontier (values different of 1.0) had lower values than 0.5, indicating poor performance. The model applied to the municipalities of Santa Catarina city assessed municipal management and local priorities rather than the goals imposed by pre-defined parameters. In the final analysis three municipalities were included in the "perceived quality frontier". The Linear Programming technique allowed to identify gaps that must be addressed by city managers to enhance actions taken. It also enabled to observe each municipal performance and compare results among similar municipalities.

  9. 75 FR 44 - Temporary Suspension of the Population Estimates and Income Estimates Challenge Programs

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-01-04

    ..., conduct research to enhance the estimates and challenge programs, and to integrate the updates from the... local governments would increase the administrative and evaluative complexity of this program for the... comparison with the population estimates, conducting research to enhance the estimates and challenge programs...

  10. Nutrition Programs in the Workplace. WBGH Worksite Wellness Series.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Glanz, Karen

    As is the case with other worksite wellness programs, company-sponsored nutrition programs have been expanding both in numbers and in depth. Besides offering a convenient health-enhancing benefit to employees, worksite nutrition programs benefit business by preventing several costly nutrition-related health problems, enhancing employees' overall…

  11. Leadership Program in the Care of Infants and Toddlers: A Training Model. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Shigaki, Irene S.; Zorn, Vera

    New York University's Leadership Program in the Care of Infants and Toddlers, an interdisciplinary training model, is described in this final report covering the program's three-year grant period from the National Institute of Mental Health. Focusing primarily on training individuals for leadership positions in the area of infant and toddler care,…

  12. 2011 Standards for the Renewable Fuel Standard Program: Final Rulemaking

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    EPA is finalizing the volume requirements and associated percentage standards that will apply under the RFS2 program in calendar year 2011 for cellulosic biofuel, biomass-based diesel, advanced biofuel, and total renewable fuel.

  13. Federal Employees Health Benefits Program: members of Congress and Congressional staff. Final rule.

    PubMed

    2013-10-02

    The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is issuing a final rule to amend the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program regulations regarding coverage for Members of Congress and congressional staff.

  14. GME Concentrations: A Collaborative Interdisciplinary Approach to Learner-Driven Education

    PubMed Central

    Nagler, Alisa; Chudgar, Saumil M.; Rudd, Mariah; Whicker, Shari A.; Gagliardi, Jane P.; Narayan, Aditee; Heflin, Mitchell T.; Gordon, David C.; Andolsek, Kathryn M.

    2015-01-01

    Background Graduate medical education (GME) programs may struggle to provide the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to meet trainee career interests and goals beyond a clinical focus. Sponsoring institutions can partner with programs to deliver content not included in typical clinical experiences of GME programs. Objective To perform a needs assessment and to develop, implement, and measure acceptability and feasibility of an institution-wide GME Concentrations curriculum. Methods In response to the needs assessment, GME leadership developed 4 concentrations: (1) Resident-as-Teacher; (2) Patient Safety and Quality Improvement; (3) Law, Ethics, and Health Policy; and (4) Leaders in Medicine. We formed advisory committees that developed curricula for each concentration, including didactics, experiential learning, and individual project mentoring. Participants completed pre- and postassessments. We assessed feasibility and evaluated participant presentations and final projects. Results Over the course of 3 years, 91 trainees (of approximately 1000 trainees each year) from 36 GME programs (of 82 accredited programs) have participated in the program. The number of participants has increased each year, and 22 participants have completed the program overall. Cost for each participant is estimated at $500. Participant projects addressed a variety of education and health care areas, including curriculum development, quality improvement, and national needs assessments. Participants reported that their GME Concentrations experience enhanced their training and fostered career interests. Conclusions The GME Concentrations program provides a feasible, institutionally based approach for educating trainees in additional interest areas. Institutional resources are leveraged to provide and customize content important to participants' career interests beyond their specialty. PMID:26457150

  15. User's guide to four-body and three-body trajectory optimization programs

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Pu, C. L.; Edelbaum, T. N.

    1974-01-01

    A collection of computer programs and subroutines written in FORTRAN to calculate 4-body (sun-earth-moon-space) and 3-body (earth-moon-space) optimal trajectories is presented. The programs incorporate a variable step integration technique and a quadrature formula to correct single step errors. The programs provide capability to solve initial value problem, two point boundary value problem of a transfer from a given initial position to a given final position in fixed time, optimal 2-impulse transfer from an earth parking orbit of given inclination to a given final position and velocity in fixed time and optimal 3-impulse transfer from a given position to a given final position and velocity in fixed time.

  16. 76 FR 70227 - Medicare Program; End-Stage Renal Disease Prospective Payment System and Quality Incentive...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-11-10

    ...This final rule updates and makes certain revisions to the End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) prospective payment system (PPS) for calendar year (CY) 2012. We are also finalizing the interim final rule with comment period published on April 6, 2011, regarding the transition budget-neutrality adjustment under the ESRD PPS,. This final rule also sets forth requirements for the ESRD quality incentive program (QIP) for payment years (PYs) 2013 and 2014. In addition, this final rule revises the ambulance fee schedule regulations to conform to statutory changes. This final rule also revises the definition of durable medical equipment (DME) by adding a 3-year minimum lifetime requirement (MLR) that must be met by an item or device in order to be considered durable for the purpose of classifying the item under the Medicare benefit category for DME. Finally, this final rule implements certain provisions of section 154 of the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008 (MIPPA) related to the durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics and supplies (DMEPOS) Competitive Acquisition Program and responds to comments received on an interim final rule published January 16, 2009, that implemented these provisions of MIPPA effective April 18, 2009. (See the Table of Contents for a listing of the specific issues addressed in this final rule.)

  17. Clinical Decision Support System to Enhance Quality Control of Spirometry Using Information and Communication Technologies

    PubMed Central

    2014-01-01

    Background We recently demonstrated that quality of spirometry in primary care could markedly improve with remote offline support from specialized professionals. It is hypothesized that implementation of automatic online assessment of quality of spirometry using information and communication technologies may significantly enhance the potential for extensive deployment of a high quality spirometry program in integrated care settings. Objective The objective of the study was to elaborate and validate a Clinical Decision Support System (CDSS) for automatic online quality assessment of spirometry. Methods The CDSS was done through a three step process including: (1) identification of optimal sampling frequency; (2) iterations to build-up an initial version using the 24 standard spirometry curves recommended by the American Thoracic Society; and (3) iterations to refine the CDSS using 270 curves from 90 patients. In each of these steps the results were checked against one expert. Finally, 778 spirometry curves from 291 patients were analyzed for validation purposes. Results The CDSS generated appropriate online classification and certification in 685/778 (88.1%) of spirometry testing, with 96% sensitivity and 95% specificity. Conclusions Consequently, only 93/778 (11.9%) of spirometry testing required offline remote classification by an expert, indicating a potential positive role of the CDSS in the deployment of a high quality spirometry program in an integrated care setting. PMID:25600957

  18. Development of NASA Technical Standards Program Relative to Enhancing Engineering Capabilities

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Gill, Paul S.; Vaughan, William W.

    2003-01-01

    The enhancement of engineering capabilities is an important aspect of any organization; especially those engaged in aerospace development activities. Technical Standards are one of the key elements of this endeavor. The NASA Technical Standards Program was formed in 1997 in response to the NASA Administrator s directive to develop an Agencywide Technical Standards Program. The Program s principal objective involved the converting Center-unique technical standards into Agency wide standards and the adoption/endorsement of non-Government technical standards in lieu of government standards. In the process of these actions, the potential for further enhancement of the Agency s engineering capabilities was noted relative to value of being able to access Agencywide the necessary full-text technical standards, standards update notifications, and integration of lessons learned with technical standards, all available to the user from one Website. This was accomplished and is now being enhanced based on feedbacks from the Agency's engineering staff and supporting contractors. This paper addresses the development experiences with the NASA Technical Standards Program and the enhancement of the Agency's engineering capabilities provided by the Program s products. Metrics are provided on significant aspects of the Program.

  19. Randomized Trial of Two Dissemination Strategies for a Skin Cancer Prevention Program in Aquatic Settings

    PubMed Central

    Escoffery, Cam; Elliott, Tom; Nehl, Eric J.

    2015-01-01

    Objectives. We compared 2 strategies for disseminating an evidence-based skin cancer prevention program. Methods. We evaluated the effects of 2 strategies (basic vs enhanced) for dissemination of the Pool Cool skin cancer prevention program in outdoor swimming pools on (1) program implementation, maintenance, and sustainability and (2) improvements in organizational and environmental supports for sun protection. The trial used a cluster-randomized design with pools as the unit of intervention and outcome. The enhanced group received extra incentives, reinforcement, feedback, and skill-building guidance. Surveys were collected in successive years (2003–2006) from managers of 435 pools in 33 metropolitan areas across the United States participating in the Pool Cool Diffusion Trial. Results. Both treatment groups improved their implementation of the program, but pools in the enhanced condition had significantly greater overall maintenance of the program over 3 summers of participation. Furthermore, pools in the enhanced condition established and maintained significantly greater sun-safety policies and supportive environments over time. Conclusions. This study found that more intensive, theory-driven dissemination strategies can significantly enhance program implementation and maintenance of health-promoting environmental and policy changes. Future research is warranted through longitudinal follow-up to examine sustainability. PMID:25521872

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

    Sjoreen, Terrence P

    The Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) Laboratory Directed Research and Development (LDRD) Program reports its status to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) in March of each year. The program operates under the authority of DOE Order 413.2A, 'Laboratory Directed Research and Development' (January 8, 2001), which establishes DOE's requirements for the program while providing the Laboratory Director broad flexibility for program implementation. LDRD funds are obtained through a charge to all Laboratory programs. This report describes all ORNL LDRD research activities supported during FY 2005 and includes final reports for completed projects and shorter progress reports for projects thatmore » were active, but not completed, during this period. The FY 2005 ORNL LDRD Self-Assessment (ORNL/PPA-2006/2) provides financial data about the FY 2005 projects and an internal evaluation of the program's management process. ORNL is a DOE multiprogram science, technology, and energy laboratory with distinctive capabilities in materials science and engineering, neutron science and technology, energy production and end-use technologies, biological and environmental science, and scientific computing. With these capabilities ORNL conducts basic and applied research and development (R&D) to support DOE's overarching national security mission, which encompasses science, energy resources, environmental quality, and national nuclear security. As a national resource, the Laboratory also applies its capabilities and skills to the specific needs of other federal agencies and customers through the DOE Work For Others (WFO) program. Information about the Laboratory and its programs is available on the Internet at . LDRD is a relatively small but vital DOE program that allows ORNL, as well as other multiprogram DOE laboratories, to select a limited number of R&D projects for the purpose of: (1) maintaining the scientific and technical vitality of the Laboratory; (2) enhancing the Laboratory's ability to address future DOE missions; (3) fostering creativity and stimulating exploration of forefront science and technology; (4) serving as a proving ground for new research; and (5) supporting high-risk, potentially high-value R&D. Through LDRD the Laboratory is able to improve its distinctive capabilities and enhance its ability to conduct cutting-edge R&D for its DOE and WFO sponsors. To meet the LDRD objectives and fulfill the particular needs of the Laboratory, ORNL has established a program with two components: the Director's R&D Fund and the Seed Money Fund. As outlined in Table 1, these two funds are complementary. The Director's R&D Fund develops new capabilities in support of the Laboratory initiatives, while the Seed Money Fund is open to all innovative ideas that have the potential for enhancing the Laboratory's core scientific and technical competencies. Provision for multiple routes of access to ORNL LDRD funds maximizes the likelihood that novel and seminal ideas with scientific and technological merit will be recognized and supported.« less

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

    Sjoreen, Terrence P

    The Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) Laboratory Directed Research and Development (LDRD) Program reports its status to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) in March of each year. The program operates under the authority of DOE Order 413.2A, 'Laboratory Directed Research and Development' (January 8, 2001), which establishes DOE's requirements for the program while providing the Laboratory Director broad flexibility for program implementation. LDRD funds are obtained through a charge to all Laboratory programs. This report describes all ORNL LDRD research activities supported during FY 2004 and includes final reports for completed projects and shorter progress reports for projects thatmore » were active, but not completed, during this period. The FY 2004 ORNL LDRD Self-Assessment (ORNL/PPA-2005/2) provides financial data about the FY 2004 projects and an internal evaluation of the program's management process. ORNL is a DOE multiprogram science, technology, and energy laboratory with distinctive capabilities in materials science and engineering, neutron science and technology, energy production and end-use technologies, biological and environmental science, and scientific computing. With these capabilities ORNL conducts basic and applied research and development (R&D) to support DOE's overarching national security mission, which encompasses science, energy resources, environmental quality, and national nuclear security. As a national resource, the Laboratory also applies its capabilities and skills to the specific needs of other federal agencies and customers through the DOE Work For Others (WFO) program. Information about the Laboratory and its programs is available on the Internet at . LDRD is a relatively small but vital DOE program that allows ORNL, as well as other multiprogram DOE laboratories, to select a limited number of R&D projects for the purpose of: (1) maintaining the scientific and technical vitality of the Laboratory; (2) enhancing the Laboratory's ability to address future DOE missions; (3) fostering creativity and stimulating exploration of forefront science and technology; (4) serving as a proving ground for new research; and (5) supporting high-risk, potentially high-value R&D. Through LDRD the Laboratory is able to improve its distinctive capabilities and enhance its ability to conduct cutting-edge R&D for its DOE and WFO sponsors. To meet the LDRD objectives and fulfill the particular needs of the Laboratory, ORNL has established a program with two components: the Director's R&D Fund and the Seed Money Fund. As outlined in Table 1, these two funds are complementary. The Director's R&D Fund develops new capabilities in support of the Laboratory initiatives, while the Seed Money Fund is open to all innovative ideas that have the potential for enhancing the Laboratory's core scientific and technical competencies. Provision for multiple routes of access to ORNL LDRD funds maximizes the likelihood that novel and seminal ideas with scientific and technological merit will be recognized and supported.« less

  2. Medicare program; inpatient psychiatric facilities prospective payment system--update for fiscal year beginning October 1, 2014 (FY 2015). Final rule.

    PubMed

    2014-08-06

    This final rule will update the prospective payment rates for Medicare inpatient hospital services provided by inpatient psychiatric facilities (IPFs). These changes will be applicable to IPF discharges occurring during the fiscal year (FY) beginning October 1, 2014 through September 30, 2015. This final rule will also address implementation of ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS codes; finalize a new methodology for updating the cost of living adjustment (COLA), and finalize new quality measures and reporting requirements under the IPF quality reporting program.

  3. Effect of the Programmed Nutrition Beef Program on moisture retention of cooked ground beef patties and enhanced strip loins.

    PubMed

    2015-02-01

    This study evaluated the influence of the Programmed Nutrition Beef Program and exogenous growth promotants (ExGP) on water holding capacity characteristics of enhanced beef strip loins. Sixty, frozen strip loins, arranged in a 2 × 2 factorial treatment arrangement with dietary program serving as the first factor and use of ExGP as the second factor, were thawed, injected with an enhancement solution, and stored for 7 days. Loins from ExGP cattle possessed the ability to bind more (P < 0.05) water before pumping and bind less (P < 0.05) water after pumping and storage. Loin pH across treatments was similar (P > 0.10) before injection, but increased post-injection and after storage (P < 0.01). Treatments did not affect loin purge loss, steak cook loss, and expressible moisture (P > 0.10). The Programmed Nutrition Beef Program and use of ExGPs minimally impacted water holding capacity of enhanced frozen/thawed beef strip loins.

  4. 7 CFR 625.4 - Program requirements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... activities that promote the restoration, protection, enhancement, maintenance, and management of forest... of successful restoration, enhancement, and protection of forest ecosystem functions and values when... AGRICULTURE WATER RESOURCES HEALTHY FORESTS RESERVE PROGRAM § 625.4 Program requirements. (a) General. Under...

  5. 40 CFR 271.4 - Consistency.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES (CONTINUED) REQUIREMENTS FOR AUTHORIZATION OF STATE HAZARDOUS WASTE PROGRAMS Requirements for Final Authorization § 271.4... hazardous waste programs which have received final authorization under this part. (a) Any aspect of the...

  6. 40 CFR 271.4 - Consistency.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES (CONTINUED) REQUIREMENTS FOR AUTHORIZATION OF STATE HAZARDOUS WASTE PROGRAMS Requirements for Final Authorization § 271.4... hazardous waste programs which have received final authorization under this part. (a) Any aspect of the...

  7. 40 CFR 271.4 - Consistency.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES (CONTINUED) REQUIREMENTS FOR AUTHORIZATION OF STATE HAZARDOUS WASTE PROGRAMS Requirements for Final Authorization § 271.4... hazardous waste programs which have received final authorization under this part. (a) Any aspect of the...

  8. Federal Employees Health Benefits Program miscellaneous changes: Medically Underserved Areas. Direct final rule.

    PubMed

    2014-12-17

    The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is issuing a direct final rule to discontinue the annual determination of the Medically Underserved Areas (MUAs) for the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program.

  9. Measure in the ESRD QIP for PY 2020. Final rule.

    PubMed

    2017-08-04

    This final rule updates the payment rates used under the prospective payment system (PPS) for skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) for fiscal year (FY) 2018. It also revises and rebases the market basket index by updating the base year from 2010 to 2014, and by adding a new cost category for Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Services. The rule also finalizes revisions to the SNF Quality Reporting Program (QRP), including measure and standardized resident assessment data policies and policies related to public display. In addition, it finalizes policies for the Skilled Nursing Facility Value-Based Purchasing Program that will affect Medicare payment to SNFs beginning in FY 2019. The final rule also clarifies the regulatory requirements for team composition for surveys conducted for investigating a complaint and aligns regulatory provisions for investigation of complaints with the statutory requirements. The final rule also finalizes the performance period for the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) Healthcare Personnel (HCP) Influenza Vaccination Reporting Measure included in the End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Quality Incentive Program (QIP) for Payment Year 2020.

  10. Development of an Enhanced Payback Function for the Superior Energy Performance Program

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

    Therkelsen, Peter; Rao, Prakash; McKane, Aimee

    2015-08-03

    The U.S. DOE Superior Energy Performance (SEP) program provides recognition to industrial and commercial facilities that achieve certification to the ISO 50001 energy management system standard and third party verification of energy performance improvements. Over 50 industrial facilities are participating and 28 facilities have been certified in the SEP program. These facilities find value in the robust, data driven energy performance improvement result that the SEP program delivers. Previous analysis of SEP certified facility data demonstrated the cost effectiveness of SEP and identified internal staff time to be the largest cost component related to SEP implementation and certification. This papermore » analyzes previously reported and newly collected data of costs and benefits associated with the implementation of an ISO 50001 and SEP certification. By disaggregating “sunk energy management system (EnMS) labor costs”, this analysis results in a more accurate and detailed understanding of the costs and benefits of SEP participation. SEP is shown to significantly improve and sustain energy performance and energy cost savings, resulting in a highly attractive return on investment. To illustrate these results, a payback function has been developed and is presented. On average facilities with annual energy spend greater than $2M can expect to implement SEP with a payback of less than 1.5 years. Finally, this paper also observes and details decreasing facility costs associated with implementing ISO 50001 and certifying to the SEP program, as the program has improved from pilot, to demonstration, to full launch.« less

  11. 75 FR 25323 - Light-Duty Vehicle Greenhouse Gas Emission Standards and Corporate Average Fuel Economy Standards...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-05-07

    ...EPA and NHTSA are issuing this joint Final Rule to establish a National Program consisting of new standards for light-duty vehicles that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve fuel economy. This joint Final Rule is consistent with the National Fuel Efficiency Policy announced by President Obama on May 19, 2009, responding to the country's critical need to address global climate change and to reduce oil consumption. EPA is finalizing greenhouse gas emissions standards under the Clean Air Act, and NHTSA is finalizing Corporate Average Fuel Economy standards under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act, as amended. These standards apply to passenger cars, light-duty trucks, and medium-duty passenger vehicles, covering model years 2012 through 2016, and represent a harmonized and consistent National Program. Under the National Program, automobile manufacturers will be able to build a single light-duty national fleet that satisfies all requirements under both programs while ensuring that consumers still have a full range of vehicle choices. NHTSA's final rule also constitutes the agency's Record of Decision for purposes of its National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) analysis.

  12. External tank program productivity and quality enhancements - A case study

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Locke, S. R.

    1988-01-01

    The optimization of the Manned Space Systems productivity and quality enhancement program is described. The guidelines and standards of the program and the roles played in it by various employee groups are addressed. Aspects of the program involving job/organization redefinition, production and planning in automation, and artificial intelligence and robotics are examined.

  13. How a Personal Development Program Enhances Social Connection and Mobilises Women in the Community

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Spry, Nandila; Marchant, Teresa

    2014-01-01

    Gender equity and the empowerment of women is a significant international issue. Successful adult education programs are vital to enhance women's situation. Lessons learned from a personal development program provided for thousands of women are analysed. The program is conducted by community service providers in Australia and internationally, with…

  14. Timber management planning with timber ram and goal programming

    Treesearch

    Richard C. Field

    1978-01-01

    By using goal programming to enhance the linear programming of Timber RAM, multiple decision criteria were incorporated in the timber management planning of a National Forest in the southeastern United States. Combining linear and goal programming capitalizes on the advantages of the two techniques and produces operationally feasible solutions. This enhancement may...

  15. Cost allocation methodology applicable to the temporary assistance for needy families program. Final rule.

    PubMed

    2008-07-23

    This final rule applies to the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program and requires States, the District of Columbia and the Territories (hereinafter referred to as the "States") to use the "benefiting program" cost allocation methodology in U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circular A-87 (2 CFR part 225). It is the judgment and determination of HHS/ACF that the "benefiting program" cost allocation methodology is the appropriate methodology for the proper use of Federal TANF funds. The Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (PRWORA) of 1996 gave federally-recognized Tribes the opportunity to operate their own Tribal TANF programs. Federally-recognized Indian tribes operating approved Tribal TANF programs have always followed the "benefiting program" cost allocation methodology in accordance with OMB Circular A-87 (2 CFR part 225) and the applicable regulatory provisions at 45 CFR 286.45(c) and (d). This final rule contains no substantive changes to the proposed rule published on September 27, 2006.

  16. Safety effectiveness of pedestrian crossing enhancements : final report.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2017-02-01

    Over the last decade, the Oregon DOT and other agencies have systematically implemented many pedestrian crossing enhancements (PCEs) across the state. This study explored the safety performance of these enhanced crossing in Oregon. Detailed data were...

  17. Enhanced digital mapping project : final report

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2004-11-19

    The Enhanced Digital Map Project (EDMap) was a three-year effort launched in April 2001 to develop a range of digital map database enhancements that enable or improve the performance of driver assistance systems currently under development or conside...

  18. Enhanced culvert inspections - best practices guidebook : final report.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2017-06-01

    Culvert inspection is a key enabler that allows MnDOT to manage the states highway culvert system. When quantitative detail on culvert condition is required, an inspector will need to use enhanced inspection technologies. Enhanced inspection techn...

  19. World Trade Center Health Program; Amendments to Definitions, Appeals, and Other Requirements. Final rule.

    PubMed

    2016-12-15

    In 2011 and 2012, the Secretary, Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), promulgated regulations designed to govern the World Trade Center (WTC) Health Program (Program), including the processes by which eligible responders and survivors may apply for enrollment in the Program, obtain health monitoring and treatment for WTC-related health conditions, and appeal enrollment and treatment decisions, as well as a process to add new conditions to the List of WTC-Related Health Conditions (List). After using the regulations for a number of years, the Administrator of the WTC Health Program identified potential improvements to certain existing provisions, including, but not limited to, appeals of enrollment, certification, and treatment decisions, as well as the procedures for the addition of health conditions for WTC Health Program coverage. He also identified the need to add new regulatory provisions, including, but not limited to, standards for the disenrollment of a WTC Health Program member and decertification of a certified WTC-related health condition. A notice of proposed rulemaking was published on August 17, 2016; this action addresses public comments received on that proposed rulemaking, as well as three interim final rules promulgated since 2011, and finalizes the proposed rule and three interim final rules.

  20. Medicare and Medicaid programs: Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment and Ambulatory Surgical Center Payment Systems and Quality Reporting Programs; electronic reporting pilot; Inpatient Rehabilitation Facilities Quality Reporting Program; revision to Quality Improvement Organization regulations. Final rule with comment period.

    PubMed

    2012-11-15

    This final rule with comment period revises the Medicare hospital outpatient prospective payment system (OPPS) and the Medicare ambulatory surgical center (ASC) payment system for CY 2013 to implement applicable statutory requirements and changes arising from our continuing experience with these systems. In this final rule with comment period, we describe the changes to the amounts and factors used to determine the payment rates for Medicare services paid under the OPPS and those paid under the ASC payment system. In addition, this final rule with comment period updates and refines the requirements for the Hospital Outpatient Quality Reporting (OQR) Program, the ASC Quality Reporting (ASCQR) Program, and the Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility (IRF) Quality Reporting Program. We are continuing the electronic reporting pilot for the Electronic Health Record (EHR) Incentive Program, and revising the various regulations governing Quality Improvement Organizations (QIOs), including the secure transmittal of electronic medical information, beneficiary complaint resolution and notification processes, and technical changes. The technical changes to the QIO regulations reflect CMS' commitment to the general principles of the President's Executive Order on Regulatory Reform, Executive Order 13563 (January 18, 2011).

  1. Entrepreneur*Wise Training Program for Displaced Homemakers at Westchester Community College, April 1, 1997-December 31, 1999. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wald, Marilyn

    This paper presents the final report of the Kauffman Grant--JumpStart III Entrepreneur*Wise Training Program for Displaced Homemakers at Westchester Community College from April 1, 1997 to December 31, 1999. This report is divided into nine parts. Section 1 looks at programs offered and individuals counseled. Section 2 discusses the…

  2. 78 FR 54200 - Virginia: Final Authorization of State Hazardous Waste Management Program Revisions

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-09-03

    ... take effect. We will then respond to public comments in a later final rule based on this proposal. You... Programs, U.S. EPA Region III, 1650 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103-2029. 4. Hand Delivery: At the... 3LC50, Office of State Programs, U.S. EPA Region III, 1650 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103-2029...

  3. A Model Pilot Program for Training Personnel to Develop Solutions to Major Educational Problems. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cullinan, Paul A.; Merrifield, Philip R.

    This document is the final report of the Model Educational Research Training (MERT) program, a graduate program of the New York University School of Education. MERT trains urban school staff in skills necessary to identify problems, design valid research projects, and apply research results. The long-term objective is the training of small groups…

  4. Associate Degree Nursing Program Guide. Final Report from February 19, 1985 to August 31, 1985.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Seminole Community Coll., Sanford, FL.

    This program guide is intended to help Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) instructors in Florida develop and/or update ADN programs. The first part is the final report of the project that developed the guide. Section I of the guide provides a description of the occupation, student admission criteria, retention and withdrawal standards, and program…

  5. Dissemination and Implementation of a Financial Management Program for Adult/Young Farmers in Vocational Agriculture Programs in Missouri. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Denker, Robert; Stewart, Bob R.

    In addition to an eight-page narrative, this final report contains materials and products from phase 2 of a project to develop, disseminate, and implement a three-year sequenced individualized and group instructional program in financial management for adult/young farmers in vocational agriculture. The narrative section discusses the four project…

  6. The Library of Congress: Evaluation of the NLS/BPH Braille and Audio Magazine Program. Final Project Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bosma and Associates International, Seattle, WA.

    This final report presents an independent formative and summative evaluation of the National Library Services for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS/BPH) braille and audio magazine program. In this program, 77 magazines are distributed directly to subscribers, with 43 magazines available on audio flexible discs and 34 magazines available in…

  7. M.U.S.I.C. (Music--Utilizing Students Investigating Careers). Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Beaverton School District 48, OR.

    The final report of the program M.U.S.I.C. (Music--Utilizing Students Investigating Careers) and the music career guide which resulted are presented. The program supplied information regarding careers in and related to music to groups ranging in size from 25 to 100 students, grades 7-9, involved in band and orchestra programs at Cedar Park…

  8. Air treatment project: Final summary report and bibliography. Technical memorandum, 1 October 1993--30 September 1995

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

    Schneider, J.M.

    This summary report describes the results of more than two years of research conducted with funding provided by SERDP, the Marine Corps Logistic Bases (MCLB) and the Navy Department`s LINC (Repair Technology) Program. The research focused on the destruction of VOCs in paint booth exhaust using hybrid air pollution control technologies. The hybrid system selected included three principle modules: UV photochemical destruction; counter-flow packed bed scrubbing using activated oxygen; and granular activation of carbon adsorption with subsequent oxidative regeneration of the carbon. The stated goals of the research included enhanced understanding of this set of technologies to support design ofmore » smaller, more affordable treatment system for both DoD and commercial application.« less

  9. Final Report - Facilitating Wind Energy: Addressing Challenges around Visual Impacts, Noise, Credible Data, and Local Benefits through Creative Stakeholder Engagement

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

    Harvey, Kate; Field, Patrick; Fierman, Elizabeth

    The project team consisting of the Consensus Building Institute, Inc., Raab Associates, Ltd., and the MIT-Harvard Program on Negotiation created a model and set of tools for building the capacity of state officials to effectively collaborate with diverse stakeholders in advancing wind development policy formation, wind facility siting, and transmission policy and siting. The model was used to enhance the ability of state officials to advance wind development in their states. Training was delivered in Cambridge, MA, in Spring 2011. The training and associated materials, including a Wind Energy Workbook, website, and simulations, is available for ongoing and widespread disseminationmore » throughout the US.« less

  10. Final Technical Report

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

    Li, Lian

    2017-03-08

    Our BES supported program integrates molecular beam epitaxy growth with in situ atomic scale imaging using scanning tunneling microscopy/spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy. Aided by density functional theory calculations, we explore enhanced functionalities emerging from the interplay of strain, proximity, and spin-orbit interactions in heterostructures of wide band gap semiconductors, graphene, and Dirac materials, focusing on three thrusts: 1) doping wide bandgap semiconductors and graphene; 2) graphene nanoribbons and graphene-semiconductor heterostructures; and 3) Dirac materials. Our findings and discoveries have led to the publication of one book chapter and twenty-three refereed journal articles, including several in high impact journals suchmore » as Nature Communications, Physical Review Letters, and Nano Letters. Highlights of each thrust are provided in the report.« less

  11. NREL/University of Delaware Offshore Wind R&D Collaboration: Cooperative Research and Development Final Report, CRADA Number CRD-10-393

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

    Musial, Walt

    2015-11-12

    Specifically, the work under this CRADA includes, but is not limited to, the development of test procedures for an offshore test site in Delaware waters; testing of installed offshore wind turbines; performance monitoring of those turbines; and a program of research and development on offshore wind turbine blades, components, coatings, foundations, installation and construction of bottom-fixed structures, environmental impacts, policies, and more generally on means to enhance the reliability, facilitate permitting, and reduce costs for offshore wind turbines. This work will be conducted both at NREL's National Wind Technology Center and participant facilities, as well as the established offshore windmore » test sites.« less

  12. Review: Metabolomics in the developmental origins of obesity and its cardiometabolic consequences

    PubMed Central

    Hivert, MF; Perng, W; Watkins, S; Newgard, CB; Kenny, LC; Kristal, BS; Patti, ME; Isganaitis, E; DeMeo, DL; Oken, E; Gillman, MW

    2015-01-01

    In this review, we discuss the potential role of metabolomics to enhance understanding of obesity-related developmental origins of health and disease (DOHaD). We first provide an overview of common techniques and analytical approaches to help interested investigators dive into this relatively novel field. Next, we describe how metabolomics may capture exposures that are notoriously difficult to quantify, and help to further refine phenotypes associated with excess adiposity and related metabolic sequelae over the life course. Together, these data can ultimately help to elucidate mechanisms that underlie fetal metabolic programming. Finally, we review current gaps in knowledge and identify areas where the field of metabolomics is likely to provide insights into mechanisms linked to DOHaD in human populations. PMID:25631626

  13. Social marketing in public health.

    PubMed

    Grier, Sonya; Bryant, Carol A

    2005-01-01

    Social marketing, the use of marketing to design and implement programs to promote socially beneficial behavior change, has grown in popularity and usage within the public health community. Despite this growth, many public health professionals have an incomplete understanding of the field. To advance current knowledge, we provide a practical definition and discuss the conceptual underpinnings of social marketing. We then describe several case studies to illustrate social marketing's application in public health and discuss challenges that inhibit the effective and efficient use of social marketing in public health. Finally, we reflect on future developments in the field. Our aim is practical: to enhance public health professionals' knowledge of the key elements of social marketing and how social marketing may be used to plan public health interventions.

  14. Mold heating and cooling microprocessor conversion. Final report

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

    Hoffman, D.P.

    Conversion of the microprocessors and software for the Mold Heating and Cooling (MHAC) pump package control systems was initiated to allow required system enhancements and provide data communications capabilities with the Plastics Information and Control System (PICS). The existing microprocessor-based control systems for the pump packages use an Intel 8088-based microprocessor board with a maximum of 64 Kbytes of program memory. The requirements for the system conversion were developed, and hardware has been selected to allow maximum reuse of existing hardware and software while providing the required additional capabilities and capacity. The new hardware will incorporate an Intel 80286-based microprocessormore » board with an 80287 math coprocessor, the system includes additional memory, I/O, and RS232 communication ports.« less

  15. Linear feature extraction from radar imagery: SBIR (Small Business Innovative Research) phase 2, option 1

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Conner, Gary D.; Milgram, David L.; Lawton, Daryl T.; McConnell, Christopher C.

    1988-04-01

    The goal of this effort is to develop and demonstrate prototype processing capabilities for a knowledge-based system to automatically extract and analyze linear features from synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imagery. This effort constitutes Phase 2 funding through the Defense Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) Program. Previous work examined the feasibility of the technology issues involved in the development of an automatedlinear feature extraction system. This Option 1 Final Report documents this examination and the technologies involved in automating this image understanding task. In particular, it reports on a major software delivery containing an image processing algorithmic base, a perceptual structures manipulation package, a preliminary hypothesis management framework and an enhanced user interface.

  16. Stellar and Binary Evolution in Star Clusters

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    McMillan, Stephen L. W.

    2001-01-01

    This paper presents a final report on research activities covered on Stellar and Binary Evolution in Star Clusters. Substantial progress was made in the development and dissemination of the "Starlab" software environment. Significant improvements were made to "kira," an N-body simulation program tailored to the study of dense stellar systems such as star clusters and galactic nuclei. Key advances include (1) the inclusion of stellar and binary evolution in a self-consistent manner, (2) proper treatment of the anisotropic Galactic tidal field, (3) numerous technical enhancements in the treatment of binary dynamics and interactions, and (4) full support for the special-purpose GRAPE-4 hardware, boosting the program's performance by a factor of 10-100 over the accelerated version. The data-reduction and analysis tools in Starlab were also substantially expanded. A Starlab Web site (http://www.sns.ias.edu/-starlab) was created and developed. The site contains detailed information on the structure and function of the various tools that comprise the package, as well as download information, "how to" tips and examples of common operations, demonstration programs, animations, etc. All versions of the software are freely distributed to all interested users, along with detailed installation instructions.

  17. Terrain Mechanics and Modeling Research Program: Enhanced Vehicle Dynamics Module

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2009-05-01

    ER D C/ G SL T R- 09 -8 Terrain Mechanics and Modeling Research Program Enhanced Vehicle Dynamics Module Daniel C. Creighton, George...public release; distribution is unlimited. Terrain Mechanics and Modeling Research Program ERDC/GSL TR-09-8 May 2009 Enhanced Vehicle Dynamics...Module Daniel C. Creighton, George B. McKinley, and Randolph A. Jones Geotechnical and Structures Laboratory U.S. Army Engineer Research and

  18. 78 FR 52899 - Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Enhancing Retail Food Store Eligibility...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-08-27

    ... DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Food and Nutrition Service Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Enhancing Retail Food Store Eligibility--Listening Sessions AGENCY: Food and Nutrition Service... for Information (RFI) published by FNS regarding Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP...

  19. Life/Career Renewal: An Intervention for Vocational and Other Life Transitions.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Robitschek, Christine

    1997-01-01

    A study examined the effectiveness of the Life/Career Renewal Program (LCR), a wilderness program for adults, in enhancing personal growth initiative (PGI) of 68 participants. Results support the hypothesis that the LCR program enhances PGI. (Author/JOW)

  20. Universal school-based substance abuse prevention programs: Modeling targeted mediators and outcomes for adolescent cigarette, alcohol and marijuana use.

    PubMed

    Stephens, Peggy C; Sloboda, Zili; Stephens, Richard C; Teasdale, Brent; Grey, Scott F; Hawthorne, Richard D; Williams, Joseph

    2009-06-01

    We examined the relationships among targeted constructs of social influences and competence enhancement prevention curricula and cigarette, alcohol and marijuana use outcomes in a diverse sample of high school students. We tested the causal relationships of normative beliefs, perceptions of harm, attitudes toward use of these substances and refusal, communication, and decision-making skills predicting the self-reported use of each substance. In addition, we modeled the meditation of these constructs through the intentions to use each substance and tested the moderating effects of the skills variables on the relationships between intentions to use and self-reported use of each of these substances. Logistic regression path models were constructed for each of the drug use outcomes. Models were run using the Mplus 5.0 statistical application using the complex sample function to control for the sampling design of students nested within schools; full information maximum likelihood estimates (FIML) were utilized to address missing data. Relationships among targeted constructs and outcomes differed for each of the drugs with communication skills having a potentially iatrogenic effect on alcohol use. Program targets were mediated through the intentions to use these substances. Finally, we found evidence of a moderating effect of decision-making skills on perceptions of harm and attitudes toward use, depending upon the outcome. Prevention curricula may need to target specific drugs. In addition to normative beliefs, perceptions of harm, and refusal and decision-making skills, programs should directly target constructs proximal to behavioral outcomes such as attitudes and intentions. Finally, more research on the effects of communication skills on adolescent substance use should be examined.

  1. Human Research Program Human Health Countermeasures Element Sensorimotor Risk Standing Review Panel (SRP) Final Report

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Peterson, Barry

    2009-01-01

    The Sensorimotor Risk Standing Review Panel (SRP) met at the NASA Johnson Space Center on October 4-6, 2009 to discuss the areas of future research targeted by the Human Health Countermeasures (HHC) Element of the Human Research Program (HRP). Using evidence-based knowledge as a background for risks, NASA had identified gaps in knowledge to address those risks. Ongoing and proposed tasks were presented to address the gaps. The charge to the Sensorimotor Risk SRP was to review the gaps, evaluate whether the tasks addressed these gaps and to make recommendations to NASA s HRP Science Management Office regarding the SRP's review. The SRP was requested to evaluate the practicality of the proposed efforts in light of the realistic demands placed on the HRP. In short, all tasks presented in the Integrated Research Plan (IRP) should address specific risks related to the challenges faced by the astronauts as a result of prolonged exposure to microgravity. All tasks proposed to fill the gaps in knowledge should provide applied, translational data necessary to address the specific risks. Several presentations were made to the SRP during the site visit and the SRP spent sufficient time to address the panel charge, either as a group or in separate sessions. The SRP made a final debriefing to the HRP Program Scientist. Taking the evidence and the risk as givens, the SRP reached the following conclusions: 1) the panel is very supportive of and endorses the present activities of the Sensorimotor Risk; and the panel is likewise supportive of the gaps and associated tasks in the IRP; 2) overall, the tasks addressed the gaps in the IRP; 3) there were some gaps and tasks that merit further enhancement and some new gaps/tasks that the SRP recommends.

  2. NOAA Office of Exploration and Research > Science > Overview

    Science.gov Websites

    2014 Funding Opportunities Contact Us Program Review Review Panel Final Report Review Team Documents Opportunities Contact Us Program Review Review Panel Final Report Review Team Documents Presentations Supporting

  3. Investigation of acoustic emission coupling techniques

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Jolly, W. D.

    1988-01-01

    A three-phase research program was initiated by NASA in 1983 to investigate the use of acoustic monitoring techniques to detect incipient failure in turbopump bearings. Two prototype acoustic coupler probes were designed and evaluated, and four units of the final probe design were fabricated. Success in this program could lead to development of an on-board monitor which could detect bearing damage in flight and reduce or eliminate the need for disassembly after each flight. This final report reviews the accomplishments of the first two phases and presents the results of fabrication and testing completed in the final phase of the research program.

  4. Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Uniformed Services (CHAMPUS); TRICARE Reserve Select for certain members of the selected reserve; Transitional Assistance Management Program; early eligibility for TRICARE for certain reserve component members. Interim final rule with comment period.

    PubMed

    2005-03-16

    This interim final rule establishes requirements and procedures for implementation of TRICARE Reserve Select. It also revises requirements and procedures for the Transitional Assistance Management Program. In addition, it establishes requirements and procedures for implementation of the earlier TRICARE eligibility for certain reserve component members. The rule is being published as an interim final rule with comment period in order to comply with statutory effective dates.

  5. PIPER: Performance Insight for Programmers and Exascale Runtimes: Guiding the Development of the Exascale Software Stack

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

    Mellor-Crummey, John

    The PIPER project set out to develop methodologies and software for measurement, analysis, attribution, and presentation of performance data for extreme-scale systems. Goals of the project were to support analysis of massive multi-scale parallelism, heterogeneous architectures, multi-faceted performance concerns, and to support both post-mortem performance analysis to identify program features that contribute to problematic performance and on-line performance analysis to drive adaptation. This final report summarizes the research and development activity at Rice University as part of the PIPER project. Producing a complete suite of performance tools for exascale platforms during the course of this project was impossible since bothmore » hardware and software for exascale systems is still a moving target. For that reason, the project focused broadly on the development of new techniques for measurement and analysis of performance on modern parallel architectures, enhancements to HPCToolkit’s software infrastructure to support our research goals or use on sophisticated applications, engaging developers of multithreaded runtimes to explore how support for tools should be integrated into their designs, engaging operating system developers with feature requests for enhanced monitoring support, engaging vendors with requests that they add hardware measure- ment capabilities and software interfaces needed by tools as they design new components of HPC platforms including processors, accelerators and networks, and finally collaborations with partners interested in using HPCToolkit to analyze and tune scalable parallel applications.« less

  6. U.S. Seismic Design Maps Web Application

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Martinez, E.; Fee, J.

    2015-12-01

    The application computes earthquake ground motion design parameters compatible with the International Building Code and other seismic design provisions. It is the primary method for design engineers to obtain ground motion parameters for multiple building codes across the country. When designing new buildings and other structures, engineers around the country use the application. Users specify the design code of interest, location, and other parameters to obtain necessary ground motion information consisting of a high-level executive summary as well as detailed information including maps, data, and graphs. Results are formatted such that they can be directly included in a final engineering report. In addition to single-site analysis, the application supports a batch mode for simultaneous consideration of multiple locations. Finally, an application programming interface (API) is available which allows other application developers to integrate this application's results into larger applications for additional processing. Development on the application has proceeded in an iterative manner working with engineers through email, meetings, and workshops. Each iteration provided new features, improved performance, and usability enhancements. This development approach positioned the application to be integral to the structural design process and is now used to produce over 1800 reports daily. Recent efforts have enhanced the application to be a data-driven, mobile-first, responsive web application. Development is ongoing, and source code has recently been published into the open-source community on GitHub. Open-sourcing the code facilitates improved incorporation of user feedback to add new features ensuring the application's continued success.

  7. Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Uniformed Services (CHAMPUS)/TRICARE: Refills of Maintenance Medications Through Military Treatment Facility Pharmacies or National Mail Order Pharmacy Program. Final rule.

    PubMed

    2016-11-02

    This final rule implements section 702 (c) of the Carl Levin and Howard P. "Buck" McKeon National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015 which states that beginning October 1, 2015, the pharmacy benefits program shall require eligible covered beneficiaries generally to refill non-generic prescription maintenance medications through military treatment facility pharmacies or the national mail-order pharmacy program. An interim final rule is in effect. Section 702(c) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015 also terminates the TRICARE For Life Pilot Program on September 30, 2015. The TRICARE For Life Pilot Program described in section 716(f) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2013, was a pilot program which began in March 2014 requiring TRICARE For Life beneficiaries to refill non-generic prescription maintenance medications through military treatment facility pharmacies or the national mail-order pharmacy program. TRICARE for Life beneficiaries are those enrolled in the Medicare wraparound coverage option of the TRICARE program. This rule includes procedures to assist beneficiaries in transferring covered prescriptions to the mail order pharmacy program.

  8. Medicare Program; Prospective Payment System and Consolidated Billing for Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs) for FY 2016, SNF Value-Based Purchasing Program, SNF Quality Reporting Program, and Staffing Data Collection. Final Rule.

    PubMed

    2015-08-04

    This final rule updates the payment rates used under the prospective payment system (PPS) for skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) for fiscal year (FY) 2016. In addition, it specifies a SNF all-cause all-condition hospital readmission measure, as well as adopts that measure for a new SNF Value-Based Purchasing (VBP) Program, and includes a discussion of SNF VBP Program policies we are considering for future rulemaking to promote higher quality and more efficient health care for Medicare beneficiaries. Additionally, this final rule will implement a new quality reporting program for SNFs as specified in the Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014 (IMPACT Act). It also amends the requirements that a long-term care (LTC) facility must meet to qualify to participate as a skilled nursing facility (SNF) in the Medicare program, or a nursing facility (NF) in the Medicaid program, by establishing requirements that implement the provision in the Affordable Care Act regarding the submission of staffing information based on payroll data.

  9. Increasing Diversity in the Earth Sciences - Impact of the IDES Program in Oregon

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    de Silva, S. L.; Guerrero, E. F.; Duncan, R. A.; de Silva, L. L.; Eriksson, S. C.

    2014-12-01

    The NSF-OEDG funded Increasing Diversity in the Earth Sciences (IDES) program hosted at Oregon State University targets undergraduate students from diverse backgrounds and diverse ethnicity to engage in research. Partnering with local community colleges, non-traditional students are the hallmark of this program. The IDES program has several components to support the students in the transition from community college to the four-year universities of Oregon State University and Portland State University. Over the four years, the program has adapted while adhering to its primary goals: (1) to increase the number of students from underrepresented groups who prepare for and pursue careers in Earth Science research and education, and (2) to strengthen the understanding of Earth Sciences and their relevance to society among broad and diverse segments of the population. Now in its final year under an extension, 53 participants have participated in the program. An ongoing external evaluation of the program reveals that the various stakeholders consider IDES very successful. Participant surveys and interviews document several impacts: expanded opportunities, making professional contacts, building self-confidence, enhanced ability to be employable, and personal acknowledgement. Research mentors and administrators from partner institutions see positive impacts on the students and on their organizations. Challenges include better communication between the IDES program, mentors, and students. IDES is poised to move forward with its current experiences and successes as a foundation for further funding. IDES-like activities can be funded from private sources and it is a good fit for funding from Research Experiences for Undergraduates at NSF. The new emphasis on education and research at community colleges is an exciting opportunity and Oregon State University has already used aspects of the IDES program in current grant proposals to obtain funds for more undergraduate research.

  10. US effort on HTS power transformers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mehta, S.

    2011-11-01

    Waukesha Electric Systems has been working in HTS power transformers development program under the auspices of US Government Department of Energy since 1994. This presentation will describe various milestones for this program and program history along with the lessons learned along the way. Our motivations for working on this development program based on man benefits offered by HTS power transformers to power delivery systems will be discussed. Based on various issues encountered during execution of many HTS projects, DOE has set up an independent program review process that is lead by team of experts. This team reviews are integral part of all DOE HTS projects. Success of all projects would be greatly enhanced by identifying critical issues early in the program. Requiring appropriate actions to mitigate the issues before processing further will lead to proactive interrogation and incorporation of expert's ideas in the project plans. Working of this review process will be also described in this presentation. Waukesha Electric Systems team including: Superpower-Inc, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, University of Houston Center for Superconductivity and Southern California Edison company was awarded a cost share grant by US Government in 2010 for development of a fault current limiting HTS power transformer. This multi year's program will require design, manufacture, installation, and monitoring of a 28 MVA tree phase transformer installed at Irvine CA. Smart Grid demonstration site. Transformer specifications along with requirements for fault current limiting and site requirement will be discussed. Design and development of various sub systems in support of this program including: HTS conductor performance specification, Dielectric system design approach, Dewar development for containing phase assemblies, cryo-cooling system design approach, etc. will be described. Finally; overall program schedule, critical milestone events, test plans and progress to date will be reported.

  11. Project EX: A Program of Empirical Research on Adolescent Tobacco Use Cessation

    PubMed Central

    Sussman, Steve; McCuller, William J; Zheng, Hong; Pfingston, Yvonne M; Miyano, James; Dent, Clyde W

    2004-01-01

    This paper presents the Project EX research program. The historical background for Project EX is presented, including a brief summary of reasons youth fail to quit tobacco use, the disappointing status of previous cessation research, and the teen cessation trial that provided the template for the current project (Project TNT). Next, program development studies for Project EX are described. Through use of focus groups, a theme study (concept evaluation of written activity descriptions), a component study, and pilot studies, an eight-session program was developed. This program involves novel activities (e.g., "talk show enactments," games, and alternative medicine-type activities such as yoga and meditation) in combination with motivation enhancement and cognitive-behavioral strategies to motivate and instruct in cessation initiation and maintenance efforts. The outcomes of the first experimental trial of Project EX, a school-based clinic program, are described, followed by a posthoc analysis of its effects mediation. A second EX study, a multiple baseline single group pilot study design in Wuhan, China, is described next. Description of a second experimental trial follows, which tested EX with nicotine gum versus a natural herb. A third experimental trial that tests a classroom prevention/cessation version of EX is then introduced. Finally, the implications of this work are discussed. The intent-to-treat quit rate for Project EX is approximately 15% across studies, double that of a standard care comparison. Effects last up to a six-month post-program at regular and alternative high schools. Through a systematic protocol of empirical program development and field trials, an effective and replicable model teen tobacco use cessation program is established. Future cessation work might expand on this work.

  12. Project EX: A Program of Empirical Research on Adolescent Tobacco Use Cessation

    PubMed Central

    Sussman, Steve; McCuller, William J; Zheng, Hong; Pfingston, Yvonne M; Miyano, James; Dent, Clyde W

    2004-01-01

    This paper presents the Project EX research program. The historical background for Project EX is presented, including a brief summary of reasons youth fail to quit tobacco use, the disappointing status of previous cessation research, and the teen cessation trial that provided the template for the current project (Project TNT). Next, program development studies for Project EX are described. Through use of focus groups, a theme study (concept evaluation of written activity descriptions), a component study, and pilot studies, an eight-session program was developed. This program involves novel activities (e.g., "talk show enactments," games, and alternative medicine-type activities such as yoga and meditation) in combination with motivation enhancement and cognitive-behavioral strategies to motivate and instruct in cessation initiation and maintenance efforts. The outcomes of the first experimental trial of Project EX, a school-based clinic program, are described, followed by a posthoc analysis of its effects mediation. A second EX study, a multiple baseline single group pilot study design in Wuhan, China, is described next. Description of a second experimental trial follows, which tested EX with nicotine gum versus a natural herb. A third experimental trial that tests a classroom prevention/cessation version of EX is then introduced. Finally, the implications of this work are discussed. The intent-to-treat quit rate for Project EX is approximately 15% across studies, double that of a standard care comparison. Effects last up to a six-month post-program at regular and alternative high schools. Through a systematic protocol of empirical program development and field trials, an effective and replicable model teen tobacco use cessation program is established. Future cessation work might expand on this work. PMID:19570278

  13. Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act; program integrity: Exchange, SHOP, and eligibility appeals. Final rule.

    PubMed

    2013-08-30

    This final rule implements provisions of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (collectively referred to as the Affordable Care Act). Specifically, this final rule outlines Exchange standards with respect to eligibility appeals, agents and brokers, privacy and security, issuer direct enrollment, and the handling of consumer cases. It also sets forth standards with respect to a State's operation of the Exchange and Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP). It generally is finalizing previously proposed policies without change.

  14. Process development for automated solar cell and module production. Task 4: Automated array assembly

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hagerty, J. J.

    1981-01-01

    The Unimate robot was programmed for the final 35 cell pattern to be used in the fabrication of the deliverable modules. Mechanical construction of the Automated Lamination Station and Final Assembly Station were completed on schedule. All final wiring and interconnect cables were also completed and the first operational testing began. The final controlling program was written. A local fabricator was contracted to produce the glass reinforced concrete panels to be used for testing and deliverables. A video tape showing all three stations in operation was produced.

  15. Faculty Development for Metro New York City Postdoctoral Dental Program Directors: Delphi Assessment and Program Response.

    PubMed

    Rubin, Marcie S; Millery, Mari; Edelstein, Burton L

    2017-03-01

    Faculty development for dental academicians is essential to cultivate a continuous faculty workforce, retain existing faculty members, enhance their teaching skill sets, and remain responsive to changing program requirements and curricular reforms. To maximize the utility of dental faculty development, it is important to systematically assess and address faculty members' perceived training needs. The aims of this study were to determine priority topics among one group of postdoctoral program directors and to translate those topics into faculty development programs as part of Columbia University's Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)-sponsored faculty training program for primary care educators. The study was conducted in 2013-16. A Delphi consensus technique was implemented with three sequential surveys of 26 New York City metropolitan area general, pediatric, and public health dentistry residency program directors. On the first survey, the five respondents (19% response rate) identified 31 topics. On the second survey, 17 respondents (response rate 65%) rated the 15 most important topics. In the third and final round, 19 respondents (73% response rate) ranked teaching research methods and teaching literature reviews as the topics of greatest interest. Overall, the responses highlighted needs for faculty development on teaching research methods, motivating trainees, trainee evaluation, and clinical care assessment. Based on these results, a series of six Faculty Forums was developed and implemented for dental educators in the metropolitan area, starting with the topic of teaching research methods. The process flow used for assessing training needs and developing and evaluating training can be applied to a variety of populations of educators.

  16. Overview of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission collaborative research program to assess tsunami hazard for nuclear power plants on the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Kammerer, A.M.; ten Brink, Uri S.; Titov, V.V.

    2017-01-01

    In response to the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami, the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission (US NRC) initiated a long-term research program to improve understanding of tsunami hazard levels for nuclear facilities in the United States. For this effort, the US NRC organized a collaborative research program with the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) with a goal of assessing tsunami hazard on the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts of the United States. Necessarily, the US NRC research program includes both seismic- and landslide-based tsunamigenic sources in both the near and the far fields. The inclusion of tsunamigenic landslides, an important category of sources that impact tsunami hazard levels for the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts is a key difference between this program and most other tsunami hazard assessment programs. The initial phase of this work consisted of collection, interpretation, and analysis of available offshore data, with significant effort focused on characterizing offshore near-field landslides and analyzing their tsunamigenic potential and properties. In the next phase of research, additional field investigations will be conducted in key locations of interest and additional analysis will be undertaken. Simultaneously, the MOST tsunami generation and propagation model used by NOAA will first be enhanced to include landslide-based initiation mechanisms and then will be used to investigate the impact of the tsunamigenic sources identified and characterized by the USGS. The potential for probabilistic tsunami hazard assessment will also be explore in the final phases of the program.

  17. Equal Employment Opportunity Enhancement Program for Civilian Navy Employees: End of Fellowship Report

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1988-01-01

    CTlr FILE copy2 EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM FOR CIVILIAN NAVY EMPLOYEES: END OF FELLOWSHIP REPORT0 Lfl (V) Submitted by I Jack E...Specialization: Industrial/Organizational Psychology S8 12 21 o6o 3 EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM FOR CIVILIAN NAVY EMPLOYEES: END OF...Problem Each Navy activity establishes equal employment opportunity (EEO) goals proportional to the racial/ethnic and gender composition of workers

  18. 77 FR 57016 - Privacy Act; Implementation

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-09-17

    ... Act; Implementation AGENCY: Defense Intelligence Agency, DoD. ACTION: Direct final rule with request for comments. SUMMARY: Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) is updating the DIA Privacy Act Program by... final rule makes non-substantive changes to the Defense Intelligence Agency Program rules. These changes...

  19. Effect of the School-Based Telemedicine Enhanced Asthma Management (SB-TEAM) Program on Asthma Morbidity: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

    PubMed

    Halterman, Jill S; Fagnano, Maria; Tajon, Reynaldo S; Tremblay, Paul; Wang, Hongyue; Butz, Arlene; Perry, Tamara T; McConnochie, Kenneth M

    2018-03-05

    Poor adherence to recommended preventive asthma medications is common, leading to preventable morbidity. We developed the School-Based Telemedicine Enhanced Asthma Management (SB-TEAM) program to build on school-based supervised therapy programs by incorporating telemedicine at school to overcome barriers to preventive asthma care. To evaluate the effect of the SB-TEAM program on asthma morbidity among urban children with persistent asthma. In this randomized clinical trial, children with persistent asthma aged 3 to 10 years in the Rochester City School District in Rochester, New York, were stratified by preventive medication use at baseline and randomly assigned to the SB-TEAM program or enhanced usual care for 1 school year. Participants were enrolled at the beginning of the school year (2012-2016), and outcomes were assessed through the end of the school year. Data were analyzed between May 2017 and November 2017 using multivariable modified intention-to-treat analyses. Supervised administration of preventive asthma medication at school as well as 3 school-based telemedicine visits to ensure appropriate assessment, preventive medication prescription, and follow-up care. The school site component of the telemedicine visit was completed by telemedicine assistants, who obtained history and examination data. These data were stored in a secure virtual waiting room and then viewed by the primary care clinician, who completed the assessment and communicated with caregivers via videoconference or telephone. Preventive medication prescriptions were sent to pharmacies that deliver to schools for supervised daily administration. The primary outcome was the mean number of symptom-free days per 2 weeks, assessed by bimonthly blinded interviews. Of the 400 enrolled children, 247 (61.8%) were male and 230 (57.5%) were African American, and the mean (SD) age was 7.8 (1.7) years. Demographic characteristics and asthma severity in the 2 groups were similar at baseline. Among children in the SB-TEAM group, 196 (98.0%) had 1 or more telemedicine visits, and 165 (82.5%) received supervised therapy through school. We found that children in the SB-TEAM group had more symptom-free days per 2 weeks postintervention compared with children in the enhanced usual care group (11.6 vs 10.97; difference, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.15-1.22; P = .01), with the largest difference observed at the final follow-up (difference, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.10-1.59). In addition, children in the SB-TEAM group were less likely to have an emergency department visit or hospitalization for asthma (7% vs 15%; odds ratio, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.32-0.84). The SB-TEAM intervention significantly improved symptoms and reduced health care utilization among urban children with persistent asthma. This program could serve as a model for sustainable asthma care among school-aged children. clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01650844.

  20. Enhancing In-Flight Transoceanic Communications Using Swift-64 Packet Mode Service

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Slywczak, Richard A.

    2004-01-01

    Current aeronautical communications can be divided into two segments. The first provides state of the art, packet switched technology to the cabin passengers so that they have access to e-mail and web services. The second provides basic circuit switch communication technology to the cockpit, which does not use bandwidth as efficiently as packet switching nor promotes resource sharing. This paper explores the research efforts currently being conducted by the NASA/Glenn Research Center (GRC) for transoceanic communications. The goal is to bring packet mode services to both the cabin and the cockpit of the aircraft and be able to attain benefits by sharing the data link with cabin services. First, this paper will outline the goals of the program and detail the benefits and issues related to this research. We will explain our current laboratory setup and show an architecture implemented in the testbed. Finally, we will present a work plan that will show the progression of research over the next year. This plan will describe a complete cycle from conceptual design and laboratory implementation to the final flight testing.

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