Sample records for extensive measurement program

  1. Non-formal educator use of evaluation results.

    PubMed

    Baughman, Sarah; Boyd, Heather H; Franz, Nancy K

    2012-08-01

    Increasing demands for accountability in educational programming have resulted in increasing calls for program evaluation in educational organizations. Many organizations include conducting program evaluations as part of the job responsibilities of program staff. Cooperative Extension is a complex organization offering non-formal educational programs through land grant universities. Many Extension services require non-formal educational program evaluations be conducted by field-based Extension educators. Evaluation research has focused primarily on the efforts of professional, external evaluators. The work of program staff with many responsibilities including program evaluation has received little attention. This study examined how field based Extension educators (i.e. program staff) in four Extension services use the results of evaluations of programs that they have conducted themselves. Four types of evaluation use are measured and explored; instrumental use, conceptual use, persuasive use and process use. Results indicate that there are few programmatic changes as a result of evaluation findings among the non-formal educators surveyed in this study. Extension educators tend to use evaluation results to persuade others about the value of their programs and learn from the evaluation process. Evaluation use is driven by accountability measures with very little program improvement use as measured in this study. Practical implications include delineating accountability and program improvement tasks within complex organizations in order to align evaluation efforts and to improve the results of both. There is some evidence that evaluation capacity building efforts may be increasing instrumental use by educators evaluating their own programs. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. Multiple Year Extension Program Outcomes & Impacts through Evaluation

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hachfeld, Gary A.; Bau, David B.; Holcomb, C. Robert; Craig, J. William

    2013-01-01

    Dwindling public funding as well as greater competition for grant dollars create a challenge for Extension. For Extension to remain a financially viable organization, educators have to be able to produce substantive, measurable program outcomes and impacts. Evaluative data can inform program development and delivery, and helps administrators…

  3. Use of ADR in Extension Public Policy Education Programs and Roles Extension Can Play in Dispute Resolution.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Danielson, Leon E.; Garber, Simon K.

    The extension educator in public policy education and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) has many roles from which to choose. These include information provider, technical advisor, convener, facilitator and program developer. The increased importance of issues programming and the increased priority given to measurement of results are creating…

  4. Comparing nutrition programs conducted by public health and Cooperative Extension personnel.

    PubMed

    Brown, J L; Adams, P A; Kaltreider, D L; Sims, L S

    1990-01-01

    We surveyed 218 county extension agents, 75 state extension specialists, 163 public health nutritionists, and 87 public health administrators in 16 states to compare the nutrition program characteristics of extension personnel with public health personnel. Public health personnel were most strongly influenced by funding regulations--more than 80% of public health nutritionists cited infant/preschool nutrition and nutrition for pregnant/lactating women as program topics. About half of the extension agents listed food preservation and preparation as the dominant topics provided. Public health personnel most frequently designed programs for pregnant and lactating women and low-income clientele; 91% of the nutritionists ranked one-to-one counseling as one of their three most important delivery methods. Extension personnel designed programs more often for homemakers/adults and youth and ranked a combination of group and media delivery methods as most important. Public health personnel use anthropometric measures and food intake records to evaluate their programs; extension personnel use written questionnaires and program records. More than 50% of the nutritionists ranked improving the health of their clients as one of the three most important impacts of their programs; more than 50% of the extension agents ranked increasing knowledge and improving skills as their most important impacts.

  5. Program Theory and Quality Matter: Changing the Course of Extension Program Evaluation

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Arnold, Mary E.; Cater, Melissa

    2016-01-01

    As internal evaluators for the 4-H program in two states, we simultaneously yet independently began to change the way we approached our evaluation practices, turning from evaluation capacity building (ECB) efforts that prepared educators to define and measure program outcomes to strategies that engage educators in defining and measuring program…

  6. A pavement management research program for Oregon highways : final report.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1989-12-01

    An extensive program was developed to measure pavement deflection skid resistance, and rideability throughout Oregon. The data from those "objective" measures were then evaluated for correlations with observed pavement distress and traffic factors. :...

  7. North Carolina Cooperative Extension Professionals' Climate Change Perceptions, Willingness, and Perceived Barriers to Programming: An Educational Needs Assessment

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Burnett, Rachel E.; Vuola, Aaron J.; Megalos, Mark A.; Adams, Damian C.; Monroe, Martha C.

    2014-01-01

    The educational needs assessment reported here measured North Carolina Cooperative Extension (NCCE) professionals' perceptions of global warming and identified barriers to climate change programming. Survey results from 400 NCCE professionals show 70% are cautious, concerned, or alarmed about global warming. Liberal and female Extension…

  8. From Knowledge to Action: Tips for Encouraging and Measuring Program-Related Behavior Change

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Chazdon, Scott; Horntvedt, Jody; Templin, Elizabeth

    2016-01-01

    It is challenging to document the behavior changes that result from Extension programming. This article describes an evaluation method we call the "action items method." Unlike other approaches for measuring behavior change, this method requires program participants to define their own action plans as part of a program and then asks them…

  9. Use of Interactive Electronic Audience Response Tools (Clickers) to Evaluate Knowledge Gained in Extension Programming

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Gunn, Patrick; Loy, Dan

    2015-01-01

    Effectively measuring short-term impact, particularly a change in knowledge resulting from Extension programming, can prove to be challenging. Clicker-based technology, when used properly, is one alternative that may allow educators to better evaluate this aspect of the logic model. While the potential interface between clicker technology and…

  10. Software Measurement Guidebook

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1995-01-01

    This Software Measurement Guidebook is based on the extensive experience of several organizations that have each developed and applied significant measurement programs over a period of at least 10 years. The lessons derived from those experiences reflect not only successes but also failures. By applying those lessons, an organization can minimize, or at least reduce, the time, effort, and frustration of introducing a software measurement program. The Software Measurement Guidebook is aimed at helping organizations to begin or improve a measurement program. It does not provide guidance for the extensive application of specific measures (such as how to estimate software cost or analyze software complexity) other than by providing examples to clarify points. It does contain advice for establishing and using an effective software measurement program and for understanding some of the key lessons that other organizations have learned. Some of that advice will appear counterintuitive, but it is all based on actual experience. Although all of the information presented in this guidebook is derived from specific experiences of mature measurement programs, the reader must keep in mind that the characteristics of every organization are unique. Some degree of measurement is critical for all software development and maintenance organizations, and most of the key rules captured in this report will be generally applicable. Nevertheless, each organization must strive to understand its own environment so that the measurement program can be tailored to suit its characteristics and needs.

  11. Policy Implications of Air Quality Research

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sheinbaum, C.

    2004-12-01

    While an integrated assessment approach will be required to achieve and sustain improvements in the air quality of Mexico City Metropolitan Area's (MCMA), policy strategies must be based on a solid understanding of the pollutant emissions and atmospheric processes that lead to unacceptable levels of air pollution. The required level of understanding can only be achieved by comprehensive atmospheric measurements followed by a coordinated atmospheric modeling program. The innovative, two-phase atmospheric measurement program, which was a collaborative effort between Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the Mexican Metropolitan Environmental Commission, with exploratory measurements in February 2002 and extensive measurements from late March through early May of 2003, was an important step towards meeting these requirements. Although the extensive data sets from the two measurement programs are still being analyzed by the investigators, their preliminary analysis efforts have yielded important insights into the nature and extent of air pollution problem in the MCMA, which in turn will have important policy implications.

  12. The need for accurate long-term measurements of water vapor in the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere with global coverage.

    PubMed

    Müller, Rolf; Kunz, Anne; Hurst, Dale F; Rolf, Christian; Krämer, Martina; Riese, Martin

    2016-02-01

    Water vapor is the most important greenhouse gas in the atmosphere although changes in carbon dioxide constitute the "control knob" for surface temperatures. While the latter fact is well recognized, resulting in extensive space-borne and ground-based measurement programs for carbon dioxide as detailed in the studies by Keeling et al. (1996), Kuze et al. (2009), and Liu et al. (2014), the need for an accurate characterization of the long-term changes in upper tropospheric and lower stratospheric (UTLS) water vapor has not yet resulted in sufficiently extensive long-term international measurement programs (although first steps have been taken). Here, we argue for the implementation of a long-term balloon-borne measurement program for UTLS water vapor covering the entire globe that will likely have to be sustained for hundreds of years.

  13. Outcomes of Stay Strong, Stay Healthy in community settings.

    PubMed

    Ball, Stephen; Gammon, Robin; Kelly, Patricia J; Cheng, An-Lin; Chertoff, Keyna; Kaume, Lydia; Abreu, Eduardo L; Brotto, Marco

    2013-12-01

    Loss of muscle strength, flexibility, and balance are strong predictors of falls in the elderly. The goal of this research was to investigate the effectiveness of a 10-week, strength-based exercise program delivered by Extension professionals. Matched pair t tests were used to compare differences in five measures of fitness collected from 808 participants (mean age = 65.4 years) at the start and finish of the exercise program. Following programming, participants significantly improved strength, flexibility, and balance. Results indicate that an evidence-based program can be translated into a community Extension program that is able to improve the fitness level of seniors.

  14. The Role of Evaluation in Determining the Public Value of Extension

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Franz, Nancy; Arnold, Mary; Baughman, Sarah

    2014-01-01

    Extension has developed a strong evaluation culture across the system for the last 15 years. Yet measures are still limited to the private value of programs, looking at problems in a linear way and at isolated efforts. Across the country, Extension evaluators and administrators need to step up to help answer the "so what?" question about…

  15. A randomized controlled trial for the effect of passive stretching on measures of hamstring extensibility, passive stiffness, strength, and stretch tolerance.

    PubMed

    Marshall, Paul W M; Cashman, Anthony; Cheema, Birinder S

    2011-11-01

    To measure hamstring extensibility, stiffness, stretch tolerance, and strength following a 4-week passive stretching program. Randomized controlled trial. Twenty-two healthy participants were randomly assigned to either a 4-week stretching program consisting of 4 hamstring and hip stretches performed 5 times per week, or a non-stretching control group. Hamstring extensibility and stiffness were measured before and after training using the instrumented straight leg raise test (iSLR). Stretch tolerance was measured as the pain intensity (visual analog scale; VAS) elicited during the maximal stretch. Hamstring strength was measured using isokinetic dynamometry at 30 and 120° s(-1). Hamstring extensibility increased by 20.9% in the intervention group following 4 weeks of training (p<0.001; d=0.86). Passive stiffness was reduced by 31% in the intervention group (p<0.05; d=-0.89). Stretch tolerance VAS scores were not different between groups at either time point, and no changes were observed following training. There were no changes in hamstring concentric strength measured at 30 and 120° s(-1). Passive stretching increases hamstring extensibility and decreases passive stiffness, with no change in stretch tolerance defined by pain intensity during the stretch. Compared to previous research, the volume of stretching was higher in this study. The volume of prescribed stretching is important for eliciting the strong clinical effect observed in this study. Copyright © 2011 Sports Medicine Australia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  16. Local Government Leadership Education: Measuring the Impact of Leadership Skill Development on Public Officials

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Davis, Gregory A.; Lucente, Joe

    2012-01-01

    Many Extension leadership development programs have been evaluated for effectiveness. Little literature exists focusing on the evaluation of leadership development programs involving elected and appointed local officials. This article describes an annual program involving elected and appointed local officials and shares quantitative and…

  17. [The role of national rural organization and agricultural extension services in relation to women].

    PubMed

    Martius Von Harder, G

    1985-01-01

    Rural extension services are designed to provide rural dwellers with information needed to further technical or social development and to solve problems. Extension agents should be fully aware of their responsibility for the advice they provide. The number of rural and agricultural development and extension agencies has multiplied greatly in the past 2 decades. Agricultural extension is the principal component of most rural development strategies. Training given to men is usually economic, while that for women is devoted to household and social functioning. Programs for women usually lag general development programs. Training of women is usually not included in agricultural extension programs, especially in countries practicing segregation of the sexes. Agricultural extension programs are generally limited to cultivation techniques and neglect transformation and storage of crops and seed preparation for increased production. Measures that could improve productivity of women's agriculture-related work are expected to be delivered through the intermediacy of their husbands, but the husbands may not appreciate the import of such messages if they are not familiar with their wives' work. Agricultural training should consider all stages of production, should be delivered to the individuals actually performing the tasks, and should be ecologically appropriate. The overall objective of agricultural extension is to increase production, but most programs do not specify who is to use the surplus or to benefit from it. The rural population or the urban population may be the prime beneficiary, or cash crops may be produced for export. Although increased production should benefit the rural population through a better food supply, in reality most extension programs are devoted to cash crops for export and are less than fully successful because of problems of crop distribution and marketing and other shortcomings. Where men and women perform the same agricultural work, it should be possible for training sessions to be held jointly for both sexes, but cultural tabus and sexual division of labor may be such that different programs and personnel are required for men and women. There are currently numerous limitations on the inclusion of women in extension programs, including official policies against female employment and ignorance of the contribution of female agricultural work and social customs which discourage female social participation. There may be few or no women extension workers, female extension agents may try to avoid fieldwork, they may spend most of their time training women in household management, or their mobility may be strictly limited by family responsibilities.

  18. Co-Parenting for Successful Kids: Impacts and Implications

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Choi, Jeong-Kyun; Hatton-Bowers, Holly; Brand, Gail; Poppe, Lisa M.; Foged, Jaclynn

    2017-01-01

    We examined the impacts of the Co-Parenting for Successful Kids program offered by University of Nebraska Extension. Using a sample of 2,622 parents who participated in the program in 2015, we measured their knowledge change and ability to perform cooperative co-parenting behaviors. Results suggest that the program effectively improved…

  19. A Study of the Congruency of Competencies and Criterion-Referenced Measures.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Jones, John Wilbur, Jr.

    The job of the 4-H extension agent involves fairly complex levels of performance. The curriculum for the extension agent program should produce youth workers who have the ability to perform competently and who possess the basic concepts and values required to function effectively. Performance objectives were written for each competency considered…

  20. SFO wake turbulence measurement system : sensors and data descriptions

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2006-10-01

    This report addresses aspects of an extensive aircraft wake turbulence measurement program conducted at San Francisco : International Airport (SFO) over a two-year period. Specifically, this report describes the sensors used for data collection and t...

  1. Adjusted Poverty Measures and the Distribution of Title I Aid: Does Title I Really Make the Rich States Richer?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Baker, Bruce D.; Taylor, Lori; Levin, Jesse; Chambers, Jay; Blankenship, Charles

    2013-01-01

    Federal and state governments in the United States make extensive use of student poverty rates in compensatory aid programs like Title I. Unfortunately, the measures of student poverty that drive funding allocations under such programs are biased because they fail to reflect geographic differences in the cost of living. In this study, we construct…

  2. Application of Statistics in Engineering Technology Programs

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Zhan, Wei; Fink, Rainer; Fang, Alex

    2010-01-01

    Statistics is a critical tool for robustness analysis, measurement system error analysis, test data analysis, probabilistic risk assessment, and many other fields in the engineering world. Traditionally, however, statistics is not extensively used in undergraduate engineering technology (ET) programs, resulting in a major disconnect from industry…

  3. Extensibility of the hamstrings is best explained by mechanical components of muscle contraction, not behavioral measures in individuals with chronic low back pain.

    PubMed

    Marshall, Paul W M; Mannion, Jamie; Murphy, Bernadette A

    2009-08-01

    To examine the relationship between hamstring extensibility by use of the instrumented straight leg raise; mechanical components of muscle contraction, including muscle recruitment, passive torque measures of tissue stiffness, and eccentric strength; and self-reported measures of pain and disability. Cross-sectional study. University laboratory. Twenty-one individuals with chronic nonspecific axial lower back pain and 15 healthy control subjects. Instrumented straight leg raise, concentric and eccentric hamstring strength, self-reported measures of pain, disability, fear avoidance, general health and well-being Objective measures included hamstring extensibility, hamstring muscle stiffness, absolute and relative concentric/eccentric strength, concentric/eccentric strength ratios. Self-reported measures included Oswestry disability index, visual analog pain scale, fear avoidance beliefs, and general health and well being. Patients with lower back pain had lower range of motion, greater changes in muscle stiffness, and impaired concentric-to-eccentric strength levels. Stepwise regression identified measures of stiffness as significantly predicting hamstring extensibility (adjusted r(2) = 0.58, F = 23.76, P < .001). Self-reported measures were not associated with extensibility. Gender differences were noted for passive stiffness and absolute strength. For women, later onset of the medial hamstrings also was associated with greater hamstring extensibility. Decreased extensibility of the hamstrings was associated with increased passive stiffness during the common range of motion (20 to 50 degrees ). Impaired stretch tolerance is associated with actual mechanical restriction, not behavioral measures indicating increased pain or fear-avoidant behavior. With no relationship to actual disability and contradictory findings in the literature for the relationship of the hamstrings to the mechanics of the low back, it is unclear whether decreased hamstring extensibility should be targeted in rehabilitation programs for axial lower back pain.

  4. 77 FR 55229 - National Farmworker Jobs Program (NFJP) Information Collection Forms; Comment Request for Regular...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-09-07

    ... DEPARTMENT OF LABOR Employment and Training Administration National Farmworker Jobs Program (NFJP... Comment Request for Regular Extension of approval (with revisions) for the National Farmworker Jobs... ETA to calculate the common performance measures for entered employment, retention, and earnings. The...

  5. 75 FR 37815 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Two-Year Extension of an Existing Information...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-06-30

    ... measures, collects data on overall project performance related to the Bureau's strategic goals, objectives, outcomes, and indicators. Progress will be measured based on the objectives of the grant project, and... health professions and nursing education and training programs. The reporting system measures the grantee...

  6. Locating Tests and Measurement Instruments for Assessment

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mastel, Kristen; Morris-Knower, Jim; Marsalis, Scott

    2016-01-01

    Extension educators, staff, and specialists need to use surveys and other measurement instruments to assess their programming and conduct other research. Challenges in locating tests and measurement tools, however, include lack of time and lack of familiarity with techniques that can be used to find them. This article discusses library resources…

  7. Proceedings of the Annual Conference of the Association for International Agricultural and Extension Education (15th, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago March 21-26, 1999).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Richardson, John G., Ed.

    This proceedings contains session topics: extension systems, extension programs, extension evaluation, program impacts, extension management, extension reform, experiential learning, program delivery, farming systems research, professional training and development, program strategies, teaching effectiveness, organizational leadership, extension…

  8. A Cost Analysis Model for Army Sponsored Graduate Dental Education Programs.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1997-04-01

    characteristics of a good measurement tool ? Cooper and Emory in their textbook, Business Research Methods, state there are three major criteria for evaluating...a measurement tool : validity, reliability, and practicality (Cooper and Emory 1995). Validity can be compartmentalized into internal and external...tremendous expense? The AEGD-1 year program is used extensively as a recruiting tool to encourage senior dental students to join the Army Dental Corps. The

  9. Use of coal fly ash and other waste products in soil stabilization and road construction including non-destructive testing of roadways.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2012-06-01

    An extensive laboratory testing program was performed on subgrade soils stabilized using fly ash and : lime kiln dust. The laboratory program included measurements of: compaction curves, small strain elastic moduli, : resilient modulus (Mr), Briaud C...

  10. Use of coal fly ash and other waste products in soil stabilization and road construction-including non-destructive testing of roadways.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2012-02-01

    An extensive laboratory testing program was performed on subgrade soils stabilized using fly ash and lime kiln dust. The laboratory : program included measurements of: compaction curves, small strain elastic moduli, resilient modulus (Mr), Briaud Com...

  11. Mixed Picture of Readiness for Adoption of Evidence-Based Prevention Programs in Communities: Exploratory Surveys of State Program Delivery Systems

    PubMed Central

    Schainker, Lisa M.; Redmond, Cleve; Ralston, Ekaterina; Yeh, Hsiu-Chen; Perkins, Daniel F.

    2015-01-01

    An emerging literature highlights the potential for broader dissemination of evidence-based prevention programs in communities through existing state systems, such as the land grant university Extension outreach system and departments of public education and health (DOE– DPH). This exploratory study entailed surveying representatives of the national Extension system and DOE– DPH, to evaluate dissemination readiness factors, as part of a larger project on an evidence-based program delivery model called PROSPER. In addition to assessing systems’ readiness factors, differences among US regions and comparative levels of readiness between state systems were evaluated. The Extension web-based survey sample N was 958 and the DOE–DPH telephone survey N was 338, with response rates of 23 and 79 %, respectively. Extension survey results suggested only a moderate level of overall readiness nationally, with relatively higher perceived need for collaborative efforts and relatively lower perceived resource availability. There were significant regional differences on all factors, generally favoring the Northeast. Results from DOE–DPH surveys showed significantly higher levels for all readiness factors, compared with Extension systems. Overall, the findings present a mixed picture. Although there were clear challenges related to measuring readiness in complex systems, addressing currently limited dissemination resources, and devising strategies for optimizing readiness, all systems showed some readiness-related strengths. PMID:25791916

  12. Measuring the Impact of Termite Prevention Curricula in Hawaii Public Schools in an Area-Wide Extension Program

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mason, Makena; Aihara-Sasaki, Maria; Grace, J. Kenneth

    2013-01-01

    The efficacy of Educate to Eradicate, a K-12 service-learning science curricula developed as part of a statewide, community-based Extension effort for termite prevention, was evaluated. The curricula use termite biology and control as the basis for science education and have been implemented in over 350 Hawaii public school classrooms with more…

  13. Doctoral Training in Statistics, Measurement, and Methodology in Psychology: Replication and Extension of Aiken, West, Sechrest, and Reno's (1990) Survey of PhD Programs in North America

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Aiken, Leona S.; West, Stephen G.; Millsap, Roger E.

    2008-01-01

    In a survey of all PhD programs in psychology in the United States and Canada, the authors documented the quantitative methodology curriculum (statistics, measurement, and research design) to examine the extent to which innovations in quantitative methodology have diffused into the training of PhDs in psychology. In all, 201 psychology PhD…

  14. Railroads and the Environment : Estimation of Fuel Consumption in Rail Transportation : Volume 3. Comparison of Computer Simulations with Field Measurements

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1978-09-01

    This report documents comparisons between extensive rail freight service measurements (previously presented in Volume II) and simulations of the same operations using a sophisticated train performance calculator computer program. The comparisons cove...

  15. Measuring short-crop reference evapotranspiration in a humid region using electronic atmometers

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    The Crop Water Use phone app is a weather-based program developed by the Missouri Extension Service to help farmers with irrigation scheduling. A limitation of the program is that it only works on Missouri fields. The app is linked to the state agricultural weather station network, which supplies da...

  16. NASA Cold Land Processes Experiment (CLPX 2002/03): Field measurements of snowpack properties and soil moisture

    Treesearch

    Kelly Elder; Don Cline; Glen E. Liston; Richard Armstrong

    2009-01-01

    A field measurement program was undertaken as part NASA's Cold Land Processes Experiment (CLPX). Extensive snowpack and soil measurements were taken at field sites in Colorado over four study periods during the two study years (2002 and 2003). Measurements included snow depth, density, temperature, grain type and size, surface wetness, surface roughness, and...

  17. Research-Practice Linkages in Extension Leadership Development Programs: Focus on Community Leadership Development Programs. A Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Vandenberg, Lela; And Others

    The Research-Practice Linkages Project sought to identify the knowledge base supporting community leadership development (CLD) programs of the Cooperative Extension Service and to determine linkages between Extension programs and CLD research. A mail questionnaire was completed by 492 Extension staff involved in CLD programs in 18 states and 42…

  18. An Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Televised Locally Oriented Driver Re-Education.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hutchinson, John W.; And Others

    Television, with its ability to reach large audiences, has been used extensively in driver-education efforts but its effectiveness has never been measured. The purpose of this research was to measure the effectiveness of a televised, locally oriented, candid camera type of driver reeducation program. The measures of effectiveness included a study…

  19. 75 FR 73049 - Notice of Proposed Information Collection Requests

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-11-29

    ... performance measures for the grant program (e.g., Government Performance and Results Act measures) and on... minimize the reporting burden on the public and helps the public understand the Department's information...: Extension. Title of Collection: U.S. Department of Education Grant Performance Report Form (ED 524B) OMB...

  20. Measuring farmer conservation behaviors: Challenges and best practices

    Treesearch

    Kristin Floress; Adam Reimer; Aaron Thompson; Mark Burbach; Cody Knutson; Linda Prokopy; Marc Ribaudo; Jessica Ulrich-Schad

    2018-01-01

    This article presents a guide for understanding the purposes and appropriate uses of different measures of conservation behavior. While applicable across natural resource management contexts, we primarily draw upon agricultural conservation research to illustrate our points. Farmers are often of interest to researchers, program managers, extension professionals, and...

  1. Survey of veterinary extension in the United States.

    PubMed

    Sischo, W M; Floyd, J G; McKean, J D; Hueston, W D

    1999-11-15

    To assess veterinary extension in the United States as perceived by veterinary extension personnel. Cross-sectional survey. Extension veterinarians in the United States. 2 surveys were designed and mailed to extension veterinarians listed by the USDA and the American Association of Extension Veterinarians. 34 states had > or = 1 extension veterinarian. The majority (> 60%) of extension veterinarians did not commit time to resident education and were not involved in research activities. Paradoxically, 23% of responding extension veterinarians did not report extension work. Programs for food animal producers, horse owners, and companion animal owners were provided by 100, 63, and 37% of states, respectively. Continuing education (CE) programs were provided for food animal veterinarians, equine veterinarians, and companion animal veterinarians by 96, 63, and 52% of states, respectively. Challenges facing veterinary extension included limited recognition of veterinary extension activities by universities, lack of university personnel to support CE programs, and decreased support for companion animal extension programs. Extension veterinarians need to identify and clearly articulate the mission of veterinary extension, develop more collaborative programs across regions, and continue to serve as catalysts to bring diverse constituents together. Extension veterinarians must distinguish their mission not solely as information transfer, which can be accomplished in a variety of ways outside of extension, but as a coherent and consistent program of education and policy developed on a national level and distributed locally.

  2. Suborbital Science Program

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Vachon, Jacques; Curry, Robert E.

    2010-01-01

    Program Objectives: 1) Satellite Calibration and Validation: Provide methods to perform the cal/val requirements for Earth Observing System satellites. 2) New Sensor Development: Provide methods to reduce risk for new sensor concepts and algorithm development prior to committing sensors to operations. 3) Process Studies: Facilitate the acquisition of high spatial/temporal resolution focused measurements that are required to understand small atmospheric and surface structures which generate powerful Earth system effects. 4) Airborne Networking: Develop disruption-tolerant networking to enable integrated multiple scale measurements of critical environmental features. Dryden Capabilities include: a) Aeronautics history of aircraft developments and milestones. b) Extensive history and experience in instrument integration. c) Extensive history and experience in aircraft modifications. d) Strong background in international deployments. e) Long history of reliable and dependable execution of projects. f) Varied aircraft types providing different capabilities, performance and duration.

  3. Exploring Extension Involvement in Farm to School Program Activities

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Benson, Matthew C.

    2014-01-01

    The study reported here examined Extension professionals' involvement in farm-to-school program activities. Results of an online survey distributed to eight state Extension systems indicate that on average, Extension professionals are involved with one farm to school program activity, with most supporting school or community garden programs.…

  4. Measuring Economic Impact through Adoption: A Study of the Multi-County New Landowners Educational Series

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Shackelford, Philip; Murphrey, Theresa Pesl; Dozier, Monty; Ripley, Jeff; Lockett, Landry

    2017-01-01

    The Multi-County New Landowners Educational Series is an Extension education program offered in Austin, Colorado, Fayette, and Washington Counties in Texas. We sent an online survey to past participants of the program (those who participated between 2006 and 2010; N = 162). Findings revealed significant adoption of several best management…

  5. Return on Investment (ROI): Calculating the Monetary Return of a Leadership Development Program

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rohs, Frederick R.

    2004-01-01

    Measuring the Return on Investment (ROI) in training and development has consistently earned a place among the critical issues in the human resource development (HRD) field. Leadership educators may soon find that program sponsors and administrators asking for ROI information as well. This paper reports the ROI of the Southern Extension Leadership…

  6. Extension through Partnerships: Research and Education Center Teams with County Extension to Deliver Programs

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mullahey, J. Jeffrey

    2011-01-01

    Budget reductions have severely affected resources available to deliver agriculture and natural resource Extension programs in Florida. University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences delivers Extension programming through a unique partnership between research and education centers and county Extension. Science-based information…

  7. Characteristics, Views Held of Agricultural Extension Activities, and Communication Behavior of Hsien Extension Supervisors in Taiwan.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hong, Pi-Feng

    Government agencies in Taiwan have carried out agricultural extension programs since 1910, with the assistance of Farmers' Associations. Programs have been expanded since 1953, and now include both general extension (subsidy programs) and educational extension. Comparison of personal characteristics of hsien (county) Farmers' Association…

  8. A novel clinical evaluation method using maximum angular velocity during knee extension to assess lower extremity muscle function of older adults.

    PubMed

    Arai, Takeshi; Obuchi, Shuichi; Shiba, Yoshitaka

    2017-11-01

    The purpose of this study is to examine the utilities of maximum angular velocity (AV) assessment during knee extension (KE) using a gyroscope for clinical evaluation of exercise program for older adults. Two hundred and 4 community-dwelling older adults underwent a 3-month exercise intervention program. Outcome measures included AV during KE and other physical functions (isometric strength (IS), walking abilities, and balance functions). A correlation coefficient was used to evaluate the relationships between AV and other physical functions at baseline. The differences of physical functions before and after intervention were evaluated and the effect size of each measurement was calculated after the program. The AV measurement was significantly correlated with IS during KE (r=0.303, P<0.01) and other physical functions. Most correlation coefficients of angular velocity were greater than that of IS. All of physical assessments were significantly improved. Also, effect size of AV was greater than that of IS (d=0.45 vs. 0.42). AV of the lower extremities is useful to evaluate the effects of exercise intervention in the elderly. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  9. Botswana water and surface energy balance research program. Part 1: Integrated approach and field campaign results

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Vandegriend, A. A.; Owe, M.; Vugts, H. F.; Ramothwa, G. K.

    1992-01-01

    The Botswana water and surface energy balance research program was developed to study and evaluate the integrated use of multispectral satellite remote sensing for monitoring the hydrological status of the Earth's surface. Results of the first part of the program (Botswana 1) which ran from 1 Jan. 1988 - 31 Dec. 1990 are summarized. Botswana 1 consisted of two major, mutually related components: a surface energy balance modeling component, built around an extensive field campaign; and a passive microwave research component which consisted of a retrospective study of large scale moisture conditions and Nimbus scanning multichannel microwave radiometer microwave signatures. The integrated approach of both components in general are described and activities performed during the surface energy modeling component including the extensive field campaign are summarized. The results of the passive microwave component are summarized. The key of the field campaign was a multilevel approach, whereby measurements by various similar sensors were made at several altitudes and resolution. Data collection was performed at two adjacent sites of contrasting surface character. The following measurements were made: micrometeorological measurements, surface temperatures, soil temperatures, soil moisture, vegetation (leaf area index and biomass), satellite data, aircraft data, atmospheric soundings, stomatal resistance, and surface emissivity.

  10. Aerothermal modeling program. Phase 2, element B: Flow interaction experiment

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Nikjooy, M.; Mongia, H. C.; Murthy, S. N. B.; Sullivan, J. P.

    1987-01-01

    NASA has instituted an extensive effort to improve the design process and data base for the hot section components of gas turbine engines. The purpose of element B is to establish a benchmark quality data set that consists of measurements of the interaction of circular jets with swirling flow. Such flows are typical of those that occur in the primary zone of modern annular combustion liners. Extensive computations of the swirling flows are to be compared with the measurements for the purpose of assessing the accuracy of current physical models used to predict such flows.

  11. Measurement Directiveness as a Cause of Response Bias: Evidence From Two Survey Experiments

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Brenner, Philip S.; DeLamater, John

    2016-01-01

    Extant research comparing survey self-reports of normative behavior to direct observations and time diary data have yielded evidence of extensive measurement bias. However, most of this research program has relied on observational data, comparing independent samples from the same target population, rather than comparing survey self-reports to a…

  12. 75 FR 55793 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-09-14

    ... Act of 1995: HRSA Telehealth Outcome Measures (OMB No. 0915-0311)--Extension In order to help carry... measures that grantees can use to evaluate the effectiveness of their services programs and monitor their... Review Act of 1993 (GPRA), all Federal agencies must develop strategic plans describing their overall...

  13. Leadership Advisory Boards in Texas: Their Perceived Ability and Utilization as the Visioning Body for Program Development

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ripley, Jeff P.; Cummings, Scott R.; Lockett, Landry L.

    2012-01-01

    The ability of Leadership Advisory Boards within Texas AgriLife Extension Service to function as the primary visioning/needs assessment source is paramount to maintaining the grassroots connection for programs. The study reported here sought to measure the self-perceptions of members' ability to meet the demand associated with this role. The study…

  14. 77 FR 2566 - Comment Request for Information Collection for a Three-Year Extension of the Labor Exchange...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-01-18

    ... pertain to: (1) Performance measures on job counseling, training and placement programs of the Department... veterans reemployment initiatives has necessitated collection of additional information on groups of...

  15. 76 FR 12073 - Extension of Web-Based TRICARE Assistance Program Demonstration Program

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-03-04

    ... DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE Office of the Secretary Extension of Web-Based TRICARE Assistance Program Demonstration Program AGENCY: Department of Defense. ACTION: Notice of a Two Year Extension of the Web-Based..., entitled Web-Based TRICARE Assistance Program. This demonstration was effective August 1, 2009, as...

  16. 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…

  17. 1970-1971 Annual Report: Extension Service Program, Silliman University.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Maturan, Eulalio G.

    The 1970-1971 annual report of the Extension Service Program of Silliman University, Dumaguete City, Philippines, treats the following projects: Mabinay Agricultural Extension, Mabinay Negrito Action-Research, Reforestation, and Livestock Dispersal. Also discussed are the Rural Publications Center and other extension services--a radio program,…

  18. Application of space technology to crustal dynamics and earthquake research

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1979-01-01

    In cooperation with other Federal government agencies, and the governments of other countries, NASA is undertaking a program of research in geodynamics. The present program activities and plans for extension of these activities in the time period 1979-1985 are described. The program includes operation of observatories for laser ranging to the Moon and to artificial satellites, and radio observatories for very long baseline microwave interferometry (VLBI). These observatories are used to measure polar motion, earth rotation, and tectonic plate movement, and serve as base stations for mobile facilities. The mobile laser ranging and VLBI facilities are used to measure crustal deformation in tectonically active areas.

  19. Experiential Learning for Extension Professionals: A Cross-Cultural Immersion Program

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Daniel, Jenna B.; Duncan, Dennis; Navarro, Maria; Fuhrman, Nick

    2014-01-01

    As the U.S. population becomes more diverse, Extension is called upon to modify its programming to meet the needs of its changing constituency. Georgia Extension created a professional development curriculum to assist Extension professionals in crafting effective programming for the rapidly growing Latino population. The study reported here…

  20. Eccentric Training and Static Stretching Improve Hamstring Flexibility of High School Males

    PubMed Central

    Bandy, William D.

    2004-01-01

    Objective: To determine if the flexibility of high-school-aged males would improve after a 6-week eccentric exercise program. In addition, the changes in hamstring flexibility that occurred after the eccentric program were compared with a 6-week program of static stretching and with a control group (no stretching). Design and Setting: We used a test-retest control group design in a laboratory setting. Subjects were assigned randomly to 1 of 3 groups: eccentric training, static stretching, or control. Subjects: A total of 69 subjects, with a mean age of 16.45 ± 0.96 years and with limited hamstring flexibility (defined as 20° loss of knee extension measured with the thigh held at 90° of hip flexion) were recruited for this study. Measurements: Hamstring flexibility was measured using the passive 90/90 test before and after the 6-week program. Results: Differences were significant for test and for the test-by-group interaction. Follow-up analysis indicated significant differences between the control group (gain = 1.67°) and both the eccentric-training (gain = 12.79°) and static-stretching (gain = 12.05°) groups. No difference was found between the eccentric and static-stretching groups. Conclusions: The gains achieved in range of motion of knee extension (indicating improvement in hamstring flexibility) with eccentric training were equal to those made by statically stretching the hamstring muscles. PMID:15496995

  1. Eccentric Training and Static Stretching Improve Hamstring Flexibility of High School Males.

    PubMed

    Nelson, Russell T; Bandy, William D

    2004-09-01

    OBJECTIVE: To determine if the flexibility of high-school-aged males would improve after a 6-week eccentric exercise program. In addition, the changes in hamstring flexibility that occurred after the eccentric program were compared with a 6-week program of static stretching and with a control group (no stretching). DESIGN AND SETTING: We used a test-retest control group design in a laboratory setting. Subjects were assigned randomly to 1 of 3 groups: eccentric training, static stretching, or control. SUBJECTS: A total of 69 subjects, with a mean age of 16.45 +/- 0.96 years and with limited hamstring flexibility (defined as 20 degrees loss of knee extension measured with the thigh held at 90 degrees of hip flexion) were recruited for this study. MEASUREMENTS: Hamstring flexibility was measured using the passive 90/90 test before and after the 6-week program. RESULTS: Differences were significant for test and for the test-by-group interaction. Follow-up analysis indicated significant differences between the control group (gain = 1.67 degrees ) and both the eccentric-training (gain = 12.79 degrees ) and static-stretching (gain = 12.05 degrees ) groups. No difference was found between the eccentric and static-stretching groups. CONCLUSIONS: The gains achieved in range of motion of knee extension (indicating improvement in hamstring flexibility) with eccentric training were equal to those made by statically stretching the hamstring muscles.

  2. Designing Studies of Extension Program Results: A Resource for Program Leaders and Specialists. Volume II--Abstracts.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rivera, William M., Ed.; And Others

    These abstracts of 42 studies of extension program results, which make up the second volume of a two-volume resource, are intended to advise state administrative program leaders and others with program evaluation responsibilities of how to design studies of cooperative extension programs. Designed to support volume I, which refers to these…

  3. Examining Extension's Capacity in Community Resource and Economic Development: Viewpoints of Extension Administrators on the Role of Community Resource and Economic Development in the Extension Portfolio

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Urbanowitz, Seth C.; Wilcox, Michael D., Jr.

    2013-01-01

    The survey-based research reported here offers insights on community, resource, and economic development (CRED) Extension programming at the national and regional level. The results present a national picture of CRED programming, research, and potential future programming opportunities that Extension could capitalize on. The research shows that…

  4. U.S.-MEXICO BORDER PROGRAM ARIZONA BORDER STUDY

    EPA Science Inventory

    The Arizona Border Study, which measured levels of metals, pesticides, polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the Arizona counties bordering Mexico, is an extension of the Arizona National Human Exposure Assessment Survey (NHEXAS) Phase...

  5. Effects of Partner's Improvisational Resistance Training on dancers' muscular strength.

    PubMed

    Vetter, Rheba E; Dorgo, Sandor

    2009-05-01

    The purpose of this study was to observe the effects of Partner's Improvisational Resistance Training (PIRT) on muscular strength, body circumference, and body fat percentage in 10 female college-age dancers in comparison with 8 female dancers in a control group. The PIRT program, based on the concepts of manual resistance training, is the application of contact improvisation in a systematic strength development program, which proposes a way of contextualizing muscular strength development within the dance class. The program lasted 8 weeks, meeting 3 times weekly for 60-minute sessions. The muscular strength pre- and posttests included 1-repetition maximum (1RM) for leg extension, leg flexion, leg press, bench press, lat pulldown, back extension, and modified sit-up. Hydrostatic weighing for body composition and circumference measures on the waist, hip, shoulder, upper arm, and thigh were made pre- and posttest analyses. There were no significant pretest differences between the groups for age, height, body weight, body fat percentage, any of the circumference measures, or 5 of the 7 muscular strength measures. At posttest, neither group showed significant changes in total body weight, body fat percentage, or lean body weight. The experimental group showed significant decrements in the waist and hip circumference measures, and all other body circumference changes were nonsignificant. The experimental group showed significant changes from pretest to posttest for all seven 1RM strength measures and greater absolute and relative strength improvements in 5 measures compared with the control group. Thus, the 8-week PIRT program for female dancers was found effective in improving overall muscular strength and decreasing circumference in the waist-hip region, but it did not elicit significant changes in body composition.

  6. A comparison of two stretching programs for hamstring muscles: A randomized controlled assessor-blinded study.

    PubMed

    Demoulin, Christophe; Wolfs, Sébastien; Chevalier, Madeline; Granado, Caroline; Grosdent, Stéphanie; Depas, Yannick; Roussel, Nathalie; Hage, Renaud; Vanderthommen, Marc

    2016-01-01

    Most parameters regarding hamstring flexibility training programs have been investigated; however, the joint (i.e. hip or knee) on which the stretching should preferentially be focused needs to be further explored. This randomized controlled assessor-blinded study aimed to investigate the influence of this parameter. We randomly assigned 111 asymptomatic participants with tight hamstring muscles in three groups: a control group and two groups following a different home-based 8-week (five 10-minute sessions per week) hamstring stretching program (i.e. stretching performed by flexing the hip while keeping the knee extended [SH] or by first flexing the hip with a flexed knee and then extending the knee [SK]). Range of motion (ROM) of hip flexion and knee extension were measured before and after the stretching program by means of the straight leg raising test and the passive knee extension angle test, respectively. Eighty-nine participants completed the study. A significant increase in ROM was observed at post-test. Analyses showed significant group-by-time interactions for changes regarding all outcomes. Whereas the increase in hip flexion and knee extension ROM was higher in the stretching groups than in the CG (especially for the SH group p < 0.05), no differences between the two stretching groups were observed (p > 0.05). In conclusion, the fact that both stretching programs resulted in similar results suggests no influence of the joint at which the stretching is focused upon, as assessed by the straight leg raising and knee extension angle tests.

  7. 40 CFR 80.50 - General test procedure requirements for augmentation of the emission models.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... § 80.45. (1) VOC, NOX, CO, and CO2 emissions must be measured for all fuel-vehicle combinations tested. (2) Toxics emissions must be measured when testing the extension fuels per the requirements of § 80... PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) REGULATION OF FUELS AND FUEL ADDITIVES Reformulated...

  8. 40 CFR 80.50 - General test procedure requirements for augmentation of the emission models.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... § 80.45. (1) VOC, NOX, CO, and CO2 emissions must be measured for all fuel-vehicle combinations tested. (2) Toxics emissions must be measured when testing the extension fuels per the requirements of § 80... PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) REGULATION OF FUELS AND FUEL ADDITIVES Reformulated...

  9. 40 CFR 80.50 - General test procedure requirements for augmentation of the emission models.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... § 80.45. (1) VOC, NOX, CO, and CO2 emissions must be measured for all fuel-vehicle combinations tested. (2) Toxics emissions must be measured when testing the extension fuels per the requirements of § 80... PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) REGULATION OF FUELS AND FUEL ADDITIVES Reformulated...

  10. 40 CFR 80.50 - General test procedure requirements for augmentation of the emission models.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... § 80.45. (1) VOC, NOX, CO, and CO2 emissions must be measured for all fuel-vehicle combinations tested. (2) Toxics emissions must be measured when testing the extension fuels per the requirements of § 80... PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) REGULATION OF FUELS AND FUEL ADDITIVES Reformulated...

  11. Psychometric Properties and Rater Effects of the Computer Adaptive Test of Functional Cognition for Traumatic Brain Injury

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wen, Pey-Shan

    2009-01-01

    Individuals with moderate to severe TBI often need extensive rehabilitation. To verify the effectiveness of intervention and design rehabilitation programs that meet individual's needs, precise and efficient outcome measures are crucial. Current assessments for TBI either focus on measuring impairments, such as neuropsychological tests or lack of…

  12. Tennessee's Extension Food and Nutrition Education Program.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Tennessee Univ., Knoxville. Agricultural Extension Service.

    The Extension Food and Nutrition Education program was set up by the University of Tennessee Agricultural Extension Service to assist low-income families in improving their diets. Carrying out the program on a one-to-one basis are 365 assistants who are taught the basics of nutrition by trained home economics extension agents. These assistants…

  13. The Impacts of the Great Recession on State Natural Resource Extension Programs

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Serenari, Christopher; Peterson, M. Nils; Bardon, Robert E.; Brown, Robert D.

    2013-01-01

    The Great Recession contributed to major budget cuts for natural resource Extension programs in the United States. Despite the potentially large cuts, their impacts and how Extension has adapted their programs have not been evaluated. We begin addressing these needs with surveys of Association of Natural Resource Extension Professionals members…

  14. USAF Summer Research Program - 1993 Summer Research Extension Program Final Reports, Volume 2, Phillips Laboratory

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1994-11-01

    Research Extension Program Phillips Laboratory Kirtland Air Force Base Sponsored by: Air Force Office of Scientific Research Boiling Air Force Base...Program Phillips Laboratory Sponsored by: Air Force Office of Scientific Research Bolling Air Force Base, Washington, D.C. and Arkansas Tech University...Summer Research Extension Program (SREP) Phillips

  15. Major advances in extension education programs in dairy production.

    PubMed

    Chase, L E; Ely, L O; Hutjens, M F

    2006-04-01

    The dairy industry has seen structural changes in the last 25 yr that have an impact on extension programming. The number of cows in the United States has decreased by 17%, whereas the number of dairy farms has decreased by 74%. The average milk production per cow has increased from 5,394 to 8,599 kg/lactation. Even though there are fewer farms, dairy farm managers are asking for more specific and targeted information. The extension resources available have also decreased during this period. Because of these changes, shifts have taken place in extension programming and staffing. A key change has been a shift to subject matter-targeted programs and workshops. Extension has also incorporated and expanded use of the Internet. Discussion groups, subject matter courses, and searchable databases are examples of Internet use. There will be continuing shifts in the demographics of the US dairy industry that will influence future extension efforts. It is also probable that fewer extension professionals will be available to provide programming due to changes in funding sources at national, state, and local levels. Future shifts in extension programming will be needed to provide the information needs of the industry with a smaller number of extension workers.

  16. Open-Access Physical Activity Programs for Older Adults: A Pragmatic and Systematic Review.

    PubMed

    Balis, Laura E; Strayer, Thomas; Ramalingam, NithyaPriya; Wilson, Meghan; Harden, Samantha M

    2018-01-10

    Open-access, community-based programs are recommended to assist older adults in meeting physical activity guidelines, but the characteristics, impact, and scalability of these programs is less understood. The Land-Grant University Cooperative Extension System, an organization providing education through county-based educators, functions as a delivery system for these programs. A systematic review was conducted to determine characteristics of effective older adult physical activity programs and the extent to which programs delivered in Extension employ these characteristics. A systematic review of peer-reviewed and grey literature was conducted from August 2016 to February 2017. The review was limited to open-access (available to all), community-based physical activity interventions for older adults (≥65 years of age). The peer-reviewed literature search was conducted in PubMed and EBSCOhost; the grey literature search for Extension interventions was conducted through Extension websites, Land-Grant Impacts, and the Journal of Extension. Sixteen peer-reviewed studies and 17 grey literature sources met inclusion criteria and were analyzed. Peer-reviewed and Extension programs were similar in their limited use of behavioral theories and group-based strategies. Compared to Extension programs, those in the peer-reviewed literature were more likely to use a combination of physical activity components and be delivered by trained professionals. The results indicate notable differences between peer-reviewed literature and Extension programs and present an opportunity for Extension programs to more effectively use evidence-based program characteristics, including behavioral theories and group dynamics, a combination of physical activity components, and educator/agent-trained delivery agents. © The Author(s) 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Gerontological Society of America. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  17. Evidence-Based Programming within Cooperative Extension: How Can We Maintain Program Fidelity While Adapting to Meet Local Needs?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Olson, Jonathan R.; Welsh, Janet A.; Perkins, Daniel F.

    2015-01-01

    In this article, we describe how the recent movement towards evidence-based programming has impacted Extension. We review how the emphasis on implementing such programs with strict fidelity to an underlying program model may be at odds with Extension's strong history of adapting programming to meet the unique needs of children, youth, families,…

  18. Making the Case for Demographic Data in Extension Programming

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Curtis, Katherine J.; Verdoff, Daniel; Rizzo, Bill; Beaudoin, James

    2012-01-01

    Understanding one's community is essential for effective Extension programming across all program areas. The use of current and reliable demographic data is crucial for Extension to develop effective education and programming to track change and to uncover hidden community characteristics. We discuss what demographic data are, present…

  19. Tools for Formative Evaluation: Gathering the Information Necessary for Program Improvement

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Jayaratne, K. S. U.

    2016-01-01

    New Extension educators experience a steep learning curve when attempting to develop effective Extension programs. Formative evaluation is helpful to new, and experienced, Extension educators in determining the changes necessary for making programs more effective. Formative evaluation is an essential part of program evaluation. However, its use…

  20. "I Don't Know" and Multiple Choice Analysis of Pre- and Post-Tests

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Spears, Karen; Wilson, Mary

    2010-01-01

    Evaluation is an essential component of any Extension education program. One tool, the pre- and post-test, provides measurable evaluation data. Yet often the answer "I don't know" or all possible answers to a multiple choice question are not included in the repeated measure analysis. Because more than two answers are offered, the test of marginal…

  1. Improving training in methodology enriches the science of psychology.

    PubMed

    Aiken, Leona S; West, Stephen G; Millsap, Roger E

    2009-01-01

    Replies to the comment Ramifications of increased training in quantitative methodology by Herbet Zimiles on the current authors original article "Doctoral training in statistics, measurement, and methodology in psychology: Replication and extension of Aiken, West, Sechrest, and Reno's (1990) survey of PhD programs in North America". The current authors state that in their recent article, they reported the results of an extensive survey of quantitative training in all PhD programs in North America. They compared these results with those of a similar survey conducted 12 years earlier (Aiken, West, Sechrest, & Reno, 1990), and raised issues for the future methodological training of substantive and quantitative researchers in psychology. The authors then respond to Zimiles three questions. PsycINFO Database Record 2009 APA.

  2. A New Extension Model: The Memorial Middle School Agricultural Extension and Education Center

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Skelton, Peter; Seevers, Brenda

    2010-01-01

    The Memorial Middle School Agricultural Extension and Education Center is a new model for Extension. The center applies the Cooperative Extension Service System philosophy and mission to developing public education-based programs. Programming primarily serves middle school students and teachers through agricultural and natural resource science…

  3. Nuclear Weapons Council: Enhancing Interagency Collaboration Could Help with Implementation of Expanded Responsibilities

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2015-05-01

    provide a cross section of the types of programs and activities the Council oversees. Specifically, we selected the B61 -12 life-extension program; the... B61 -12 life-extension program; the W76-1 life-extension program; the plutonium strategy; and budget- related activities,7 such as the Council’s

  4. Parent Reports of Young Spanish-English Bilingual Children's Productive Vocabulary: A Development and Validation Study.

    PubMed

    Mancilla-Martinez, Jeannette; Gámez, Perla B; Vagh, Shaher Banu; Lesaux, Nonie K

    2016-01-01

    This 2-phase study aims to extend research on parent report measures of children's productive vocabulary by investigating the development (n = 38) of the Spanish Vocabulary Extension and validity (n = 194) of the 100-item Spanish and English MacArthur-Bates Communicative Development Inventories Toddler Short Forms and Upward Extension (Fenson et al., 2000, 2007; Jackson-Maldonado, Marchman, & Fernald, 2013) and the Spanish Vocabulary Extension for use with parents from low-income homes and their 24- to 48-month-old Spanish-English bilingual children. Study participants were drawn from Early Head Start and Head Start collaborative programs in the Northeastern United States in which English was the primary language used in the classroom. All families reported Spanish or Spanish-English as their home language(s). The MacArthur Communicative Development Inventories as well as the researcher-designed Spanish Vocabulary Extension were used as measures of children's English and Spanish productive vocabularies. Findings revealed the forms' concurrent and discriminant validity, on the basis of standardized measures of vocabulary, as measures of productive vocabulary for this growing bilingual population. These findings suggest that parent reports, including our researcher-designed form, represent a valid, cost-effective mechanism for vocabulary monitoring purposes in early childhood education settings.

  5. Bone Analyzer

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1985-01-01

    The danger of disuse osteoporosis under weightless condition in space led to extensive research into measurements of bone stiffness and mass by the Biomedical Research Division of Ames and Stanford University. Through its Technology Utilization Program, NASA funded an advanced SOBSA, a microprocessor-controlled bone probe system. SOBSA determines bone stiffness by measuring responses to an electromagnetic shaker. With this information, a physician can identify bone disease, measure deterioration and prescribe necessary therapy. The system is now undergoing further testing.

  6. Commerce, Research and Education: Contributions and Challenges of Marine Extension Work in NOAA Sea Grant Program-Puerto Rico, Michigan and National office

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Aleman Diaz, A.

    2006-12-01

    The National Sea Grant program represents NOAA's nationwide university-based program in support of coastal resource use and conservation. This program is composed of 30 university-based programs that work with local coastal communities. This study focuses on a historical and multi-sited ethnographic approach that analyzes two Sea Grant Programs and their connection to the overarching NOAA national goals from 1980- 2000.The project aims to offer insight on how the extension agent position facilitates the resolution of coastal and marine management and tourism issues. The extension agents are staff who have an extensive knowledge of available coastal resources and have the role of translating this information to coastal stakeholders. Additionally, these agents assess the needs of coastal communities and report back to the program making their role into a position that can effectively alter and/or contribute to institutional and environmental management programs at broader, cross-country and global levels. The extension programs in Michigan and Puerto Rico were examined to understand how local programs respond to cultural and regional processes shaping marine extension and the management of issues faced by coastal stakeholders. A total of 36 semi- structured in-depth interviews were completed at each site, to address the following questions: (1) How do extension agents view their role at the Puerto Rico and Michigan offices and in the Sea Grant program? How do they view the conditions of their work? (2) How do their views compare to the accomplishments by each Sea Grant administration and internal inquiries? How do their views reveal conditions documented in Puerto Rico and Michigan (e.g., social, cultural, political, economic, etc)? (3) What kind of strategies do agents develop for the management of specific coastal and tourism related projects? (4) How do the Puerto Rico and Michigan offices coordinate their work, and collaborate with other "college" programs and with the National office? Although differences based on organizational structure were evident, there were similarities regarding the marine extension work history, practices, and challenges among these local programs. Preliminary findings suggests that current challenges for Sea Grant marine extension include maintenance of non- advocacy and mediation roles among coastal stakeholders, their positioning relative to research especially conducting and delivering of science to public, and development of their multi-faceted skills sets essential to extension. Simultaneously, the Sea Grant program and marine extension agents provide comprehensive ways for integrated resource management like avenues for dialogue and information-technology transfer with bottom up approaches.

  7. Creative Energy Management Can Save Money.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rose, Patricia

    1984-01-01

    Schools can launch energy conservation programs with simple money-saving measures like improving boiler maintenance, recalibrating utility meters, and obtaining preferred utility rates. Becoming more assertive in the marketplace and using "creative financing" when needed, they can then reinvest their savings in more extensive projects. (MCG)

  8. Summary results from long-term wake turbulence measurements at San Francisco International Airport

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2004-07-01

    This report summarizes the results of an extensive wake turbulence data collection program at the San Francisco International : Airport (SFO). Most of the landings at SFO are conducted on closely spaced parallel runways that are spaced 750 feet : bet...

  9. Effect of an eccentrically biased hamstring strengthening home program on knee flexor strength and the length-tension relationship.

    PubMed

    Orishimo, Karl F; McHugh, Malachy P

    2015-03-01

    The purposes of this study were to document relative activation intensities of the hamstrings and gluteus maximus during 4 eccentric hamstring strengthening exercises and to assess the effects of a short-term strengthening program comprised of these exercises on knee flexor strength and the length-tension relationship. Twelve healthy subjects participated in this study. Electromyographic (EMG) activities from the biceps femoris, semitendinosus, and gluteus maximus were recorded as subjects performed (a) standing hip extension with elastic resistance, (b) trunk flexion in single limb stance (diver), (c) standing split (glider), and (d) supine sliding bridge (slider). Baseline isometric knee flexor strength was measured at 90, 70, 50, and 30° of flexion at the knee with the subject seated and the hip flexed to 50° from horizontal. After completing the 4-week training program, strength tests were repeated. Repeated-measures analysis of variance were used to compare EMG activity between muscles and to assess angle-specific strength improvements. Hamstring activity exceeded gluteus maximus activity for resisted hip extension, glider, and slider exercises (p < 0.001) but not for the diver (p = 0.087). Hamstring activation was greatest during the slider and resisted hip extension and lowest during the glider and the diver. Knee flexor strength improved by 9.0% (p = 0.005) but was not angle specific (training by angle p = 0.874). The short-term home training program effectively targeted the hamstrings and resulted in strength gains that were similar at short and long muscle lengths. These data demonstrate that hamstring strength can be improved using eccentrically biased unilateral exercises without the use of weights or other equipments.

  10. Techniques for Liquid Rocket Combustion Spontaneous Stability and Rough Combustion Assessments

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Kenny, R. J.; Giacomoni, C.; Casiano, M. J.; Fischbach, S. R.

    2016-01-01

    This work presents techniques for liquid rocket engine combustion stability assessments with respect to spontaneous stability and rough combustion. Techniques covering empirical parameter extraction, which were established in prior works, are applied for three additional programs: the F-1 Gas Generator (F1GG) component test program, the RS-84 preburner component test program, and the Marshall Integrated Test Rig (MITR) program. Stability assessment parameters from these programs are compared against prior established spontaneous stability metrics and updates are identified. Also, a procedure for comparing measured with predicted mode shapes is presented, based on an extension of the Modal Assurance Criterion (MAC).

  11. The US Air Force suicide prevention program: implications for public health policy.

    PubMed

    Knox, Kerry L; Pflanz, Steven; Talcott, Gerald W; Campise, Rick L; Lavigne, Jill E; Bajorska, Alina; Tu, Xin; Caine, Eric D

    2010-12-01

    We evaluated the effectiveness of the US Air Force Suicide Prevention Program (AFSPP) in reducing suicide, and we measured the extent to which air force installations implemented the program. We determined the AFSPP's impact on suicide rates in the air force by applying an intervention regression model to data from 1981 through 2008, providing 16 years of data before the program's 1997 launch and 11 years of data after launch. Also, we measured implementation of program components at 2 points in time: during a 2004 increase in suicide rates, and 2 years afterward. Suicide rates in the air force were significantly lower after the AFSPP was launched than before, except during 2004. We also determined that the program was being implemented less rigorously in 2004. The AFSPP effectively prevented suicides in the US Air Force. The long-term effectiveness of this program depends upon extensive implementation and effective monitoring of implementation. Suicides can be reduced through a multilayered, overlapping approach that encompasses key prevention domains and tracks implementation of program activities.

  12. Review of Physics Results from the Tevatron. Electroweak Physics

    DOE PAGES

    Kotwal, Ashutosh V.; Schellman, Heidi; Sekaric, Jadranka

    2015-02-17

    We summarize an extensive Tevatron (1984–2011) electroweak physics program that involves a variety of W and Z boson precision measurements. The relevance of these studies using single and associated gauge boson production to our understanding of the electroweak sector, quantum chromodynamics and searches for new physics is emphasized. Furthermore,we discuss the importance of the W boson mass measurement, the W/Z boson distributions and asymmetries, and diboson studies. We also highlight the recent Tevatron measurements and prospects for the final Tevatron measurements.

  13. Extension Youth Educators' Technology Use in Youth Development Programming

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    McClure, Carli; Buquoi, Brittany; Kotrlik, Joe W.; Machtmes, Krisanna; Bunch, J. C.

    2014-01-01

    The purpose of this descriptive-correlational study was to determine the use of technology in youth programming by Extension youth development educators in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee. Data were collected via e-mail and a SurveyMonkey© questionnaire. Extension educators are using some technology in youth development programming. More…

  14. Repeat Customer Success in Extension

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bess, Melissa M.; Traub, Sarah M.

    2013-01-01

    Four multi-session research-based programs were offered by two Extension specialist in one rural Missouri county. Eleven participants who came to multiple Extension programs could be called "repeat customers." Based on the total number of participants for all four programs, 25% could be deemed as repeat customers. Repeat customers had…

  15. 78 FR 23926 - Extension of the Public Comment Period for the Draft Uranium Leasing Program Programmatic...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-04-23

    ... DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Extension of the Public Comment Period for the Draft Uranium Leasing Program Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement AGENCY: Department of Energy. ACTION: Extension of the public... the Draft Uranium Leasing Program Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (Draft ULP PEIS, DOE/EIS...

  16. HIFiRE-1 Preliminary Aerothermodynamic Measurements (Postprint)

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2012-05-01

    surplus military ordnance used extensively in sounding rocket programs. This motor combination was chosen to minimize overall program costs and, based on...out on the forward sections of payload including a cone, a cylinder, and a flare which transitions to the diameter of the second stage motor (0.356 m...HIFiRE-1 payload was a Terrier Mk70 booster–Improved Orion sustainer 17 motor combination. The Terrier and Orion motors have been sourced from

  17. Problems Impacting Extension Program Quality at the County Level: Results from an Analysis of County Program Reviews Conducted in Florida

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Harder, Amy; Moore, Austen; Mazurkewicz, Melissa; Benge, Matt

    2013-01-01

    Needs assessments are an important tool for informing organizational development efforts in Extension. The purpose of the study reported here was to identify problems faced by county units within UF/IFAS Extension during county program reviews. The findings were drawn from the reports created after five county units experienced program reviews in…

  18. Measuring Sustainability of Urban Systems: An Exploration based on Two Metrics for the Chicago Metropolitan Area

    EPA Science Inventory

    This presentation is comprised of two sustainability metrics that have been developed for the Chicago Metropolitan Area under SHC research program. The first sustainability metrics is Ecological Foot Print Analysis. Ecological Footprint Analysis (EFA) has been extensively deploy...

  19. 77 FR 54927 - Comment Request for Information Collection for Unemployment Insurance (UI) Benefit Accuracy...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-09-06

    ... Collection for Unemployment Insurance (UI) Benefit Accuracy Measurement (BAM), Extension Without Revisions... Andrew Spisak, Office of Unemployment Insurance, Room S-4524, Employment and Training Administration, U.S... payments in three programs: State UI, Unemployment Compensation for Federal Employees (UCFE), and...

  20. The development and evaluation of a program for leg-strengthening exercises and balance assessment using Kinect.

    PubMed

    Choi, Jin-Seung; Kang, Dong-Won; Seo, Jeong-Woo; Kim, Dae-Hyeok; Yang, Seung-Tae; Tack, Gye-Rae

    2016-01-01

    [Purpose] In this study, a program was developed for leg-strengthening exercises and balance assessment using Microsoft Kinect. [Subjects and Methods] The program consists of three leg-strengthening exercises (knee flexion, hip flexion, and hip extension) and the one-leg standing test (OLST). The program recognizes the correct exercise posture by comparison with the range of motion of the hip and knee joints and provides a number of correct action examples to improve training. The program measures the duration of the OLST and presents this as the balance-age. The accuracy of the program was analyzed using the data of five male adults. [Results] In terms of the motion recognition accuracy, the sensitivity and specificity were 95.3% and 100%, respectively. For the balance assessment, the time measured using the existing method with a stopwatch had an absolute error of 0.37 sec. [Conclusion] The developed program can be used to enable users to conduct leg-strengthening exercises and balance assessments at home.

  1. The New FARM Program: A Model for Supporting Diverse Emerging Farmers and Early-Career Extension Professionals

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Sirrine, J. R.; Eschbach, Cheryl L.; Lizotte, Erin; Rothwell, N. L.

    2016-01-01

    As early-career Extension educators challenged by societal, structural, agricultural, and fiscal trends, we designed a multiyear educational program to support the diverse needs of emerging specialty crop producers in northwest Michigan. This article presents outcomes of that program. We explore how Extension professionals can develop impactful…

  2. Extension Home Economists as Therapists in a Behavior Modification Weight Loss Program.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Beneke, William M.; Paulsen, Barbara K.

    A total of 150 overweight female subjects entered a behavior modification weight loss program with extension home economists as therapists to determine the feasibility of state extension services as a vehicle for widespread dissemination of behavioral weight loss programs. The treatment, emphasizing stimulus control and nutrition education,…

  3. Conducting a Statewide Dual-Purpose Program for Pesticide Applicators and County Extension Agents

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Fishel, Fred; Liu, Guodong David

    2014-01-01

    The University of Florida Cooperative Extension conducted a statewide program with a dual role during 2013 and 2014 to enhance efficiency. The program provided in-service training to county Extension agents and provided continuing education to meet requirements needed by licensed pesticide applicators. Using Polycom distance technology, the event…

  4. Promoting Behavior Change Using Social Norms: Applying a Community Based Social Marketing Tool to Extension Programming

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Chaudhary, Anil Kumar; Warner, Laura A.

    2015-01-01

    Most educational programs are designed to produce lower level outcomes, and Extension educators are challenged to produce behavior change in target audiences. Social norms are a very powerful proven tool for encouraging sustainable behavior change among Extension's target audiences. Minor modifications to program content to demonstrate the…

  5. Monitoring and assessing the effects from Metro networks construction on the urban acoustic environment: The Athens Metro Line 3 Extension.

    PubMed

    Vogiatzis, Konstantinos; Zafiropoulou, Vassiliki; Mouzakis, Haralampos

    2018-10-15

    The Line 3 Extension from Aghia Marina to Piraeus constitutes one of the most significant construction projects in full development in Athens Greater area. For the management and abatement of the air borne noise generated from surface, and/or underground construction activities, relevant machinery operation, and trucks movements at open worksites and the tunnel, a continuous monthly noise and vibration monitoring program is enforced in order to assess any potential intrusion of the acoustic environment. On basis of measured 24 hour L eq noise levels, both L den and L night EU indices were assessed along with vibration velocity for every worksite and tunnel construction activity. The existing environmental noise background generated mainly from road traffic was assessed in order to evaluate potential effects on both air borne noise from construction activities. This comprehensive monitoring program aims to protect the inhabitants in the vicinity of worksites and the tunnel surrounding from construction noise and vibration processing and evaluating all necessary mitigation measures. Especially, for the protection of sensitive receptors, this program may serve as a tool ensuring a successful management of both noise and vibration levels emitted from open air construction activities and (Tunnel Boring Machine) TBM or hammer/pilling operation by implementing mitigation measures where necessary. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  6. Application of Crossover Design for Conducting Rigorous Extension Evaluations

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Jayaratne, K. S. U.; Bird, Carolyn L.; McClelland, Jacquelyn W.

    2013-01-01

    With the increasing demand for accountability of Extension programming, Extension professionals need to apply rigorous evaluation designs. Randomized designs are useful to eliminate selection biases of program participants and to improve the accuracy of evaluation. However, randomized control designs are not practical to apply in Extension program…

  7. Groundbreaking Mars Sample Return for Science and Human Exploration

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Cohen, Barbara; Draper, David; Eppler, Dean; Treiman, Allan

    2012-01-01

    Partnerships between science and human exploration have recent heritage for the Moon (Lunar Precursor Robotics Program, LPRP) and nearearth objects (Exploration Precursor Robotics Program, xPRP). Both programs spent appreciable time and effort determining measurements needed or desired before human missions to these destinations. These measurements may be crucial to human health or spacecraft design, or may be desired to better optimize systems designs such as spacesuits or operations. Both LPRP and xPRP recommended measurements from orbit, by landed missions and by sample return. LPRP conducted the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) and Lunar Crater Observation and Sensing Satellite (LCROSS) missions, providing high-resolution visible imagery, surface and subsurface temperatures, global topography, mapping of possible water ice deposits, and the biological effects of radiation [1]. LPRP also initiated a landed mission to provide dust and regolith properties, local lighting conditions, assessment of resources, and demonstration of precision landing [2]. This mission was canceled in 2006 due to funding shortfalls. For the Moon, adequate samples of rocks and regolith were returned by the Apollo and Luna programs to conduct needed investigations. Many near-earth asteroids (NEAs) have been observed from the Earth and several have been more extensively characterized by close-flying missions and landings (NEAR, Hayabusa, Rosetta). The current Joint Robotic Precursor Activity program is considering activities such as partnering with the New Frontiers mission OSIRIS-Rex to visit a NEA and return a sample to the Earth. However, a strong consensus of the NEO User Team within xPRP was that a dedicated mission to the asteroid targeted by humans is required [3], ideally including regolith sample return for more extensive characterization and testing on the Earth.

  8. LLNL electro-optical mine detection program

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

    Anderson, C.; Aimonetti, W.; Barth, M.

    1994-09-30

    Under funding from the Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA) and the US Marine Corps (USMC), Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) has directed a program aimed at improving detection capabilities against buried mines and munitions. The program has provided a national test facility for buried mines in arid environments, compiled and distributed an extensive data base of infrared (IR), ground penetrating radar (GPR), and other measurements made at that site, served as a host for other organizations wishing to make measurements, made considerable progress in the use of ground penetrating radar for mine detection, and worked on the difficult problem ofmore » sensor fusion as applied to buried mine detection. While the majority of our effort has been concentrated on the buried mine problem, LLNL has worked with the U.S.M.C. on surface mine problems as well, providing data and analysis to support the COBRA (Coastal Battlefield Reconnaissance and Analysis) program. The original aim of the experimental aspect of the program was the utilization of multiband infrared approaches for the detection of buried mines. Later the work was extended to a multisensor investigation, including sensors other than infrared imagers. After an early series of measurements, it was determined that further progress would require a larger test facility in a natural environment, so the Buried Object Test Facility (BOTF) was constructed at the Nevada Test Site. After extensive testing, with sensors spanning the electromagnetic spectrum from the near ultraviolet to radio frequencies, possible paths for improvement were: improved spatial resolution providing better ground texture discrimination; analysis which involves more complicated spatial queueing and filtering; additional IR bands using imaging spectroscopy; the use of additional sensors other than IR and the use of data fusion techniques with multi-sensor data; and utilizing time dependent observables like temperature.« less

  9. A coactive interdisciplinary research program with NASA

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Rouse, J. W., Jr.

    1972-01-01

    The applications area of the Texas A&M University remote sensing program consists of a series of coactive projects with NASA/MSC personnel. In each case, the Remote Sensing Center has served to complement and enhance the research capability within the Manned Spacecraft Center. In addition to the applications study area, the Texas A&M University program includes coordinated projects in sensors and data analysis. Under the sensors area, an extensive experimental study of microwave radiometry for soil moisture determination established the effect of soil moisture on the measured brightness temperature for several different soil types. The data analysis area included a project which ERTS-A and Skylab data were simulated using aircraft multispectral scanner measurements at two altitudes. This effort resulted in development of a library of computer programs which provides an operational capability in classification analysis of multispectral data.

  10. Improving Training in Methodology Enriches the Science of Psychology

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Aiken, Leona S.; West, Stephen G.; Millsap, Roger E.

    2009-01-01

    Replies to the comment Ramifications of increased training in quantitative methodology by Herbet Zimiles on the current authors original article "Doctoral training in statistics, measurement, and methodology in psychology: Replication and extension of Aiken, West, Sechrest, and Reno's (1990) survey of PhD programs in North America". The…

  11. Optimizing efficiency of height modeling for extensive forest inventories.

    Treesearch

    T.M. Barrett

    2006-01-01

    Although critical to monitoring forest ecosystems, inventories are expensive. This paper presents a generalizable method for using an integer programming model to examine tradeoffs between cost and estimation error for alternative measurement strategies in forest inventories. The method is applied to an example problem of choosing alternative height-modeling strategies...

  12. U.S.-MEXICO BORDER PROGRAM ARIZONA BORDER STUDY--METALS IN WATER ANALYTICAL RESULTS

    EPA Science Inventory

    The Metals in Water data set contains analytical results for measurements of up to 11 metals in 98 water samples over 61 households. Sample collection was undertaken at the tap and any additional drinking water source used extensively within each residence. The primary metals o...

  13. Considerations in Use of the EPA’s ToxCast Data for Environmental Toxicology (SETAC)

    EPA Science Inventory

    The US EPA has developed the ToxCast program to prioritize chemicals for selective toxicity testing. ToxCast relies on extensive bioactivity profiling using a panel of biochemical and cellular assays that measure chemicals effects on potential molecular initiating events and key ...

  14. Interpreting Physiological Data from Riparian Vegetation: Cautions and Complications

    Treesearch

    John G. Williams

    1989-01-01

    Water potential and stomatal conductance are important indicators of the response of vegetation to manipulations of riparian systems. However, interpretation of measurements of these variables is not always straightforward. An extensive monitoring program along the Carmel River in central California, carried out by the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District,...

  15. Using Maps in Web Analytics to Evaluate the Impact of Web-Based Extension Programs

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Veregin, Howard

    2015-01-01

    Maps can be a valuable addition to the Web analytics toolbox for Extension programs that use the Web to disseminate information. Extension professionals use Web analytics tools to evaluate program impacts. Maps add a unique perspective through visualization and analysis of geographic patterns and their relationships to other variables. Maps can…

  16. A Needs Assessment of Aquaculture Extension Agents, Specialists, and Program Administrators in Extension Programming

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Schwarz, Michael H.; Gibson, Jerry

    2010-01-01

    The study reported here identified continuing education and training needs of aquaculture Extension agents, specialists, and program administrators in 10 competency areas relating to the need for continuing education or training. Fourteen resources on the AquaNIC Web site were also evaluated, as was the efficacy of the AQUA-EXT listserv. Data were…

  17. Cost Effectiveness Ratio: Evaluation Tool for Comparing the Effectiveness of Similar Extension Programs

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Jayaratne, K. S. U.

    2015-01-01

    Extension educators have been challenged to be cost effective in their educational programming. The cost effectiveness ratio is a versatile evaluation indicator for Extension educators to compare the cost of achieving a unit of outcomes or educating a client in similar educational programs. This article describes the cost effectiveness ratio and…

  18. Evaluation of the ACEC Benchmark Suite for Real-Time Applications

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1990-07-23

    1.0 benchmark suite waSanalyzed with respect to its measuring of Ada real-time features such as tasking, memory management, input/output, scheduling...and delay statement, Chapter 13 features , pragmas, interrupt handling, subprogram overhead, numeric computations etc. For most of the features that...meant for programming real-time systems. The ACEC benchmarks have been analyzed extensively with respect to their measuring of Ada real-time features

  19. Defining Audience Segments for Extension Programming Using Reported Water Conservation Practices

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Monaghan, Paul; Ott, Emily; Wilber, Wendy; Gouldthorpe, Jessica; Racevskis, Laila

    2013-01-01

    A tool from social marketing can help Extension agents understand distinct audience segments among their constituents. Defining targeted audiences for Extension programming is a first step to influencing behavior change among the public. An online survey was conducted using an Extension email list for urban households receiving a monthly lawn and…

  20. The Impact of Tour-Based Diversity Programming on County Extension Personnel and Programs

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Shaklee, Harriet; Luckey, Brian; Tifft, Kathee

    2014-01-01

    This article explores the effect that planning and conducting an intensive multi-day, tour-based diversity workshop can have on the professional development and Extension work of the county Extension educators involved. Survey data was collected from the county Extension educators who planned workshops throughout Idaho. Educators reported that the…

  1. EXTENSION IN RURAL COMMUNITIES, A MANUAL FOR AGRICULTURAL AND HOME EXTENSION WORKERS.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    SAVILE, A.H.

    A PRACTICAL GUIDE IS PROVIDED FOR TRAINERS OF ADVISORY AND EXTENSION WORKERS AND LOCAL LEADERS IN AGRICULTURE AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT IN DEVELOPING NATIONS. BASIC PRINCIPLES OF AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION, COMMUNITY SURVEY PROCEDURES, ELEMENTS OF PROGRAM PLANNING, AND PURPOSES AND METHODS OF PROGRAM EVALUATION ARE DESCRIBED. THEN FOLLOW TWO CHAPTERS…

  2. Developing a Marketing Mind-Set: Training and Mentoring for County Extension Employees

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Sneed, Christopher T.; Elizer, Amy Hastings; Hastings, Shirley; Barry, Michael

    2016-01-01

    Marketing the county Extension program is a critical responsibility of the entire county staff. This article describes a unique peer-to-peer training and mentoring program developed to assist county Extension staff in improving marketing skills and successfully developing and implementing a county Extension marketing plan. Data demonstrating…

  3. CMM Data Analysis Tool

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

    Due to the increase in the use of Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs) to measure fine details and complex geometries in manufacturing, many programs have been made to compile and analyze the data. These programs typically require extensive setup to determine the expected results in order to not only track the pass/fail of a dimension, but also to use statistical process control (SPC). These extra steps and setup times have been addressed through the CMM Data Analysis Tool, which only requires the output of the CMM to provide both pass/fail analysis on all parts run to the same inspection program asmore » well as provide graphs which help visualize where the part measures within the allowed tolerances. This provides feedback not only to the customer for approval of a part during development, but also to machining process engineers to identify when any dimension is drifting towards an out of tolerance condition during production. This program can handle hundreds of parts with complex dimensions and will provide an analysis within minutes.« less

  4. Agricultural Extension--Programming the Work.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Smith, G. A.

    This paper outlines the concept of "program" and one set of elements that are considered to make up the program planning process in agricultural extension, and an example of practical program planning in Rhodesia is given. Although there is a wide variety of meanings attached to the term "program" in adult education, it has…

  5. School-Based Peer Mediation Programs: A Natural Extension of Developmental Guidance Programs.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Robertson, Gwendolyn

    School-based peer mediation programs are natural extensions of the kindergarten-grade 12 developmental guidance programs. Peer mediation programs not only provide schools with alternatives to traditional discipline practices, but also teach students important life skills. Existing research on peer mediation is very limited, yet promising. This…

  6. Gait characteristics of individuals with multiple sclerosis before and after a 6-month aerobic training program.

    PubMed

    Rodgers, M M; Mulcare, J A; King, D L; Mathews, T; Gupta, S C; Glaser, R M

    1999-07-01

    Individuals who have multiple sclerosis (MS) typically experience problems with physical activities such as walking, resulting from the combined effects of skeletal muscle weakness, sensory disturbances, spasticity, gait ataxia, and reduction in aerobic capacity. The aim of this study was to determine whether a 6-mo exercise program designed for aerobic conditioning might also affect gait abnormalities in individuals with MS. Subjects included 18 individuals with MS who presented a range of disability. Passive range of motion (PROM) in the lower limbs was measured and gait analyzed before and after exercise conditioning. Three-dimensional kinematics, ground reaction forces (GRF), and electromyographic information were acquired as subjects walked at self-selected velocities. Hip PROM increased following conditioning. Mean walking velocity, cadence, and posterior shear GRF (push-off force) decreased. During walking, maximum ankle dorsiflexion decreased and ankle plantarflexion increased. Total knee flexion/extension range during the walking cycle decreased slightly as did maximum hip extension. Results suggest this 6-mo training program had minimal effect on gait abnormalities.

  7. UH-60 Airloads Program Tutorial

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bousman, William G.

    2009-01-01

    From the fall of 1993 to late winter of 1994, NASA Ames and the U.S. Army flew a flight test program using a UH-60A helicopter with extensive instrumentation on the rotor and blades, including 242 pressure transducers. Over this period, approximately 30 flights were made, and data were obtained in level flight, maneuver, ascents, and descents. Coordinated acoustic measurements were obtained with a ground-acoustic array in cooperation with NASA Langley, and in-flight acoustic measurements with a YO-3A aircraft. NASA has sponsored the creation of a "tutorial' which covers the depth and breadth of the flight test program with a mixture of text and graphics. The primary purpose of this tutorial is to introduce the student to what is known about rotor aerodynamics based on the UH-60A measurements. The tutorial will also be useful to anyone interested in helicopters who would like to have more detailed knowledge about helicopter aerodynamics.

  8. Collaboration for prevention of chronic disease in Kentucky: the Health Education Through Extension Leaders (HEEL) program.

    PubMed

    Riley, Peggy

    2008-09-01

    Health Education Through Extension Leaders (HEEL) is one of the solutions the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture has created to address the problem of chronic disease in Kentucky. Building on the land grant model for education, outreach, and prevention, HEEL collaborates and partners with the academic health centers, area health education centers, the Center for Rural Health, the Kentucky Cancer Program, the Markey Cancer Center, the University of Kansas Wellness Program, and the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services to implement research-based preventive programs to the county extension agents across Kentucky. Extension agents are an instrumental bridge between the communities across Kentucky and the educational resources provided by the HEEL program.

  9. Type Safe Extensible Programming

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chae, Wonseok

    2009-10-01

    Software products evolve over time. Sometimes they evolve by adding new features, and sometimes by either fixing bugs or replacing outdated implementations with new ones. When software engineers fail to anticipate such evolution during development, they will eventually be forced to re-architect or re-build from scratch. Therefore, it has been common practice to prepare for changes so that software products are extensible over their lifetimes. However, making software extensible is challenging because it is difficult to anticipate successive changes and to provide adequate abstraction mechanisms over potential changes. Such extensibility mechanisms, furthermore, should not compromise any existing functionality during extension. Software engineers would benefit from a tool that provides a way to add extensions in a reliable way. It is natural to expect programming languages to serve this role. Extensible programming is one effort to address these issues. In this thesis, we present type safe extensible programming using the MLPolyR language. MLPolyR is an ML-like functional language whose type system provides type-safe extensibility mechanisms at several levels. After presenting the language, we will show how these extensibility mechanisms can be put to good use in the context of product line engineering. Product line engineering is an emerging software engineering paradigm that aims to manage variations, which originate from successive changes in software.

  10. Application of IMPLAN to Extension Programs: Economic Impacts of the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension SNAP-Ed Spending

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kerna, Ashley; Frisvold, George; Jacobs, Laurel; Farrell, Vanessa A.; Houtkooper, Linda; Misner, Scottie

    2015-01-01

    Many Extension programs are turning to the input-output software IMPLAN to demonstrate economic impacts. IMPLAN is a powerful tool that can be used to estimate the total economic activity associated with an industry, event, or policy. One possible application, therefore, is to use program spending data to estimate the economic effects of…

  11. 15 CFR 292.1 - Program description.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE NIST EXTRAMURAL PROGRAMS MANUFACTURING EXTENSION...)(3) and 278l), as amended, NIST will provide financial assistance to develop the infrastructure of the national manufacturing extension system. Under the NIST Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP...

  12. 15 CFR 292.1 - Program description.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE NIST EXTRAMURAL PROGRAMS MANUFACTURING EXTENSION...)(3) and 278l), as amended, NIST will provide financial assistance to develop the infrastructure of the national manufacturing extension system. Under the NIST Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP...

  13. 15 CFR 292.1 - Program description.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE NIST EXTRAMURAL PROGRAMS MANUFACTURING EXTENSION...)(3) and 278l), as amended, NIST will provide financial assistance to develop the infrastructure of the national manufacturing extension system. Under the NIST Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP...

  14. 15 CFR 292.1 - Program description.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE NIST EXTRAMURAL PROGRAMS MANUFACTURING EXTENSION...)(3) and 278l), as amended, NIST will provide financial assistance to develop the infrastructure of the national manufacturing extension system. Under the NIST Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP...

  15. 15 CFR 292.1 - Program description.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE NIST EXTRAMURAL PROGRAMS MANUFACTURING EXTENSION...)(3) and 278l), as amended, NIST will provide financial assistance to develop the infrastructure of the national manufacturing extension system. Under the NIST Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP...

  16. Data reduction analysis and application technique development for atmospheric trace gas constituents derived from remote sensors on satellite or airborne platforms

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Casas, J. C.; Campbell, S. A.

    1981-01-01

    The applicability of the gas filter correlation radiometer (GFCR) to the measurement of tropospheric carbon monoxide gas was investigated. An assessment of the GFRC measurement system to a regional measurement program was conducted through extensive aircraft flight-testing of several versions of the GFRC. Investigative work in the following areas is described: flight test planning and coordination, acquisition of verifying CO measurements, determination and acquisition of supporting meteorological data requirements, and development of supporting computational software.

  17. Utility of the Living (Well Through) Intergenerational Fitness and Exercise Program as a County-Delivered Extension Program

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Sowle, Ashleigh J.; Francis, Sarah L.; Margrett, Jennifer A.; Franke, Warren D.

    2016-01-01

    Rural-residing older adults are not participating in regular physical activity. Extension is in an excellent position to fill this programming void through transdisciplinary programming such as the Living (well through) Intergenerational Fitness and Exercise (LIFE) program. Qualitative evaluation was conducted to assess the LIFE program's utility…

  18. Selected topics from the structural acoustics program for the B-1 aircraft

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Belcher, P. M.

    1979-01-01

    The major elements of the structural acoustics program for the B-1 aircraft are considered. Acoustic pressures measured at 280 sites on the surface of the vehicle were used to develop pressure models for a resizing of airframe components for aircraft No. 4 (A/C4). Acoustical fatigue design data for two dynamically complex structural configurations were acquired in laboratory programs, the conceptions for and executions of which detailed significant departures from the conventional. Design requirements for mechanical fasteners for configurations other than these two made use of analytical extensions of regrettably limited available information.

  19. The US Air Force Suicide Prevention Program: Implications for Public Health Policy

    PubMed Central

    Pflanz, Steven; Talcott, Gerald W.; Campise, Rick L.; Lavigne, Jill E.; Bajorska, Alina; Tu, Xin; Caine, Eric D.

    2010-01-01

    Objectives. We evaluated the effectiveness of the US Air Force Suicide Prevention Program (AFSPP) in reducing suicide, and we measured the extent to which air force installations implemented the program. Methods. We determined the AFSPP's impact on suicide rates in the air force by applying an intervention regression model to data from 1981 through 2008, providing 16 years of data before the program's 1997 launch and 11 years of data after launch. Also, we measured implementation of program components at 2 points in time: during a 2004 increase in suicide rates, and 2 years afterward. Results. Suicide rates in the air force were significantly lower after the AFSPP was launched than before, except during 2004. We also determined that the program was being implemented less rigorously in 2004. Conclusions. The AFSPP effectively prevented suicides in the US Air Force. The long-term effectiveness of this program depends upon extensive implementation and effective monitoring of implementation. Suicides can be reduced through a multilayered, overlapping approach that encompasses key prevention domains and tracks implementation of program activities. PMID:20466973

  20. Effects of combined linear and nonlinear periodic training on physical fitness and competition times in finswimmers.

    PubMed

    Yu, Kyung-Hun; Suk, Min-Hwa; Kang, Shin-Woo; Shin, Yun-A

    2014-10-01

    The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of combined linear and nonlinear periodic training on physical fitness and competition times in finswimmers. The linear resistance training model (6 days/week) and nonlinear underwater training (4 days/week) were applied to 12 finswimmers (age, 16.08± 1.44 yr; career, 3.78± 1.90 yr) for 12 weeks. Body composition measures included weight, body mass index (BMI), percent fat, and fat-free mass. Physical fitness measures included trunk flexion forward, trunk extension backward, sargent jump, 1-repetition-maximum (1 RM) squat, 1 RM dead lift, knee extension, knee flexion, trunk extension, trunk flexion, and competition times. Body composition and physical fitness were improved after the 12-week periodic training program. Weight, BMI, and percent fat were significantly decreased, and trunk flexion forward, trunk extension backward, sargent jump, 1 RM squat, 1 RM dead lift, and knee extension (right) were significantly increased. The 50- and 100-m times significantly decreased in all 12 athletes. After 12 weeks of training, all finswimmers who participated in this study improved their times in a public competition. These data indicate that combined linear and nonlinear periodic training enhanced the physical fitness and competition times in finswimmers.

  1. A Framework for Identifying Implementation Issues Affecting Extension Human Sciences Programming

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Abell, Ellen; Cummings, Rebekah; Duke, Adrienne M.; Marshall, Jennifer Wells

    2015-01-01

    Extension programs based on identified needs, relevant theory, and solid research too often fail to realize their objectives. Program implementation is acknowledged to contribute to program effectiveness, yet systematic attention has not been paid to the array of implementation issues that can complicate achieving program goals. We developed the…

  2. 75 FR 28100 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Notice of Request for Extension of Currently Approved...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-05-19

    ... for submitting comments. Fax: 1-202-493-2251. Mail: Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of... is to advance transportation education and research, and attract qualified students to the field of... information from student transportation education programs, also serving as a management tool to measure...

  3. An assessment of multiflora rose in northern U.S. forests

    Treesearch

    Cassandra M. Kurtz; Mark H. Hansen

    2013-01-01

    This publication provides an overview of multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora) on forest land across the 24 states of the midwestern and northeastern United States based on an extensive systematic network of plots measured by the Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) program of the U.S. Forest Service, Northern Research Station (NRS).

  4. The Wisconsin Test of Adult Basic Education (WITABE).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Pandey, Tej N.; Cleary, T. Anne

    A description is given of "The Wisconsin Test of Adult Basic Education (WITABE)" which was developed specifically to measure the achievement of the individuals enrolled in the Rural Family Development (RGD) program at the University Extension, University of Wisconsin. The test is divided into three main parts or subtests: subtests 1 and…

  5. The Sloan-C Pillars: Towards a Balanced Approach to Measuring Organizational Learning

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Yeo, Kee Meng; Mayadas, A. Frank

    2010-01-01

    The Sloan Pillars have set the standard for university-wide online learning program assessment for more than a dozen years. In this paper, the authors propose the extension of the Pillars to corporate e-learning, offering an alternative to traditional enterprise learning assessments. Claiming that conventional methods stress individual courses or…

  6. New Approach to School Health Initiatives: Using Fitness Measures Instead of Body Mass Index to Evaluate Outcomes

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Phelps, Joshua; Smith, Amanda; Parker, Stephany; Hermann, Janice

    2016-01-01

    Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service provided elementary school students with a program that included a noncompetitive physical activity component: circuit training that combined cardiovascular, strength, and flexibility activities without requiring high skill levels. The intent was to improve fitness without focusing on body mass index as an…

  7. An Energy Management Programme for Grande Prairie Public School District. Energy Conservation: Energy Management.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Calgary Univ. (Alberta).

    This report describes a pilot energy conservation project in Grande Prairie (Alberta) School District No. 2357. Extensive data collection and analysis were undertaken to provide a sound, quantitative basis for evaluation of the program. Energy conserving measures requiring capital outlays were not considered. During the project, electric demand…

  8. Recommended Outcomes for Families of Young Children with Disabilities

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bailey, Donald B., Jr.; Bruder, Mary Beth; Hebbeler, Kathy; Carta, Judith; Defosset, Michelle; Greenwood, Charles; Kahn, Lynne; Mallik, Sangeeta; Markowitz, Joy; Spiker, Donna; Walker, Dale; Barton, Lauren

    2006-01-01

    The Early Childhood Outcomes (ECO) Center was funded by the Office of Special Education Programs to promote the development and implementation of child and family outcome measures for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers with disabilities. An evidence-based process with extensive stakeholder input led to the identification of five outcomes by which…

  9. Comparison between Kinesio Taping and a Traditional Physical Therapy Program in Treatment of Nonspecific Low Back Pain.

    PubMed

    Kachanathu, Shaji John; Alenazi, Aqeel M; Seif, Hamada Eid; Hafez, Ashraf Ramadan; Alroumim, Meshari Abdulmohsen

    2014-08-01

    [Purpose] Nonspecific low back pain (NSLBP) is a very common but largely self-limiting condition. Several types of tape and their associated application methods are available for different conditions. The aim of the present study was to observe the effect of Kinesio taping (KT) compared with traditional management of NSLBP. [Subjects and Methods] Forty male and female patients with a mean age of 34.8±7.54 years were randomly divided into two groups; group 1 (n=20) which underwent conventional physical therapy with KT, and group 2 (n=20), which underwent only conventional physical therapy. The intervention sessions for both groups were three times per week for four weeks. Outcomes were assessed for activities of daily living (ADL) using the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire, pain severity using a visual analogue scale, and ranges of motion (ROMs) of trunk flexion and extension using the modified Schober's test. [Results] Significant differences in measures of pain, ADL, and trunk flexion and extension ROMs were observed post intervention within each group. In comparison, there were no significant differences in measures of pain, ADL, and trunk flexion and extension ROMs post intervention between groups. [Conclusion] A physical therapy program involving strengthening exercises for abdominal muscles and stretching exercises for back, hamstring, and iliopsoas muscles with or without Kinesio taping was beneficial in the treatment of chronic low back pain.

  10. 76 FR 4350 - Health Information Technology Extension Program

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-01-25

    ... DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Health Information Technology Extension Program ACTION: Public Notice. SUMMARY: This notice announces changes to the Health Information Technology Extension... technology, as authorized under section 3012(c) of the Public Health Service Act, as added by the American...

  11. 76 FR 3175 - Proposed Extension of Existing Information Collection; Respirator Program Records

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-01-19

    ... extension of the information collection for Respiratory Protection Program Records under 30 CFR 56.5005 and... that such equipment offers adequate protection for workers. A written respiratory protection program... require metal and nonmetal mine operators to institute a respiratory protection program governing...

  12. Effects of 8-week Pilates exercise program on menopausal symptoms and lumbar strength and flexibility in postmenopausal women

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Haelim; Caguicla, Joy Matthew Cuasay; Park, Sangseo; Kwak, Dong Jick; Won, Deuk-Yeon; Park, Yunjin; Kim, Jeeyoun; Kim, Myungki

    2016-01-01

    The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of an 8-week Pilates exercise program on menopausal symptoms and lumbar strength and flexibility in postmenopausal women. In total, 74 postmenopausal women were recruited and randomly allocated to a Pilates exercise group (n=45) and a control group (n=29). Menopausal symptoms were measured through a questionnaire, while lumbar strength was measured through a lumbar extension machine, and lumbar flexibility was measured through sit-and-reach and trunk lift tests performed before and after the Pilates exercise program, respectively. The Pilates exercises consisted of 7–10 min for warm-up, 35–40 min for the main program modified from Pilates Academy International, and 5–7 min for the cool-down, and were performed 3 times a week for 8 weeks. The results showed a significant decrease in menopausal symptoms except urogenital symptoms. Also, the results presented a significant increase in lumbar strength and flexibility after 8 weeks of the Pilates exercise program. We concluded that an 8-week Pilates exercise program is effective in decreasing menopausal symptoms and increasing lumbar strength and flexibility. PMID:27419122

  13. Effects of 8-week Pilates exercise program on menopausal symptoms and lumbar strength and flexibility in postmenopausal women.

    PubMed

    Lee, Haelim; Caguicla, Joy Matthew Cuasay; Park, Sangseo; Kwak, Dong Jick; Won, Deuk-Yeon; Park, Yunjin; Kim, Jeeyoun; Kim, Myungki

    2016-06-01

    The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of an 8-week Pilates exercise program on menopausal symptoms and lumbar strength and flexibility in postmenopausal women. In total, 74 postmenopausal women were recruited and randomly allocated to a Pilates exercise group (n=45) and a control group (n=29). Menopausal symptoms were measured through a questionnaire, while lumbar strength was measured through a lumbar extension machine, and lumbar flexibility was measured through sit-and-reach and trunk lift tests performed before and after the Pilates exercise program, respectively. The Pilates exercises consisted of 7-10 min for warm-up, 35-40 min for the main program modified from Pilates Academy International, and 5-7 min for the cool-down, and were performed 3 times a week for 8 weeks. The results showed a significant decrease in menopausal symptoms except urogenital symptoms. Also, the results presented a significant increase in lumbar strength and flexibility after 8 weeks of the Pilates exercise program. We concluded that an 8-week Pilates exercise program is effective in decreasing menopausal symptoms and increasing lumbar strength and flexibility.

  14. Maximizing Program Delivery in Extension: Lessons from Leadership for Transformation.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Laughlin, Kevin M.; Schmidt, Janet L.

    1995-01-01

    Reviews advantages and disadvantages of four extension delivery methods: partnerships, master volunteer programs, information centers, and regional programs. Concluded that the key is matching individual, community, and emerging needs with the right method. (SK)

  15. Scintillation detector efficiencies for neutrons in the energy region above 20 MeV

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

    Dickens, J.K.

    1991-01-01

    The computer program SCINFUL (for SCINtillator FUL1 response) is a program designed to provide a calculated complete pulse-height response anticipated for neutrons being detected by either an NE-213 (liquid) scintillator or an NE-110 (solid) scintillator in the shape of a right circular cylinder. The point neutron source may be placed at any location with respect to the detector, even inside of it. The neutron source may be monoenergetic, or Maxwellian distributed, or distributed between chosen lower and upper bounds. The calculational method uses Monte Carlo techniques, and it is relativistically correct. Extensive comparisons with a variety of experimental data havemore » been made. There is generally overall good agreement (less than 10% differences) of results for SCINFUL calculations with measured integral detector efficiencies for the design incident neutron energy range of 0.1 to 80 MeV. Calculations of differential detector responses, i.e. yield versus response pulse height, are generally within about 5% on the average for incident neutron energies between 16 and 50 MeV and for the upper 70% of the response pulse height. For incident neutron energies between 50 and 80 MeV, the calculated shape of the response agrees with measurements, but the calculations tend to underpredict the absolute values of the measured responses. Extension of the program to compute responses for incident neutron energies greater than 80 MeV will require new experimental data on neutron interactions with carbon. 32 refs., 6 figs., 2 tabs.« less

  16. Scintillation detector efficiencies for neutrons in the energy region above 20 MeV

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dickens, J. K.

    The computer program SCINFUL (for SCINtillator FUL1 response) is a program designed to provide a calculated complete pulse-height response anticipated for neutrons being detected by either an NE-213 (liquid) scintillator or an NE-110 (solid) scintillator in the shape of a right circular cylinder. The point neutron source may be placed at any location with respect to the detector, even inside of it. The neutron source may be monoenergetic, or Maxwellian distributed, or distributed between chosen lower and upper bounds. The calculational method uses Monte Carlo techniques, and it is relativistically correct. Extensive comparisons with a variety of experimental data were made. There is generally overall good agreement (less than 10 pct. differences) of results for SCINFUL calculations with measured integral detector efficiencies for the design incident neutron energy range of 0.1 to 80 MeV. Calculations of differential detector responses, i.e., yield versus response pulse height, are generally within about 5 pct. on the average for incident neutron energies between 16 and 50 MeV and for the upper 70 pct. of the response pulse height. For incident neutron energies between 50 and 80 MeV, the calculated shape of the response agrees with measurements, but the calculations tend to underpredict the absolute values of the measured responses. Extension of the program to compute responses for incident neutron energies greater than 80 MeV will require new experimental data on neutron interactions with carbon.

  17. Externships in Sustainability Program as an Outreach Tool for Extension

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Apel, Mark; Mostafa, Ayman; Brandau, Bill; Garfin, Gregg

    2013-01-01

    In 2011, Arizona Cooperative Extension implemented Externships in Sustainability, a program in which undergraduate students conduct community-based sustainability projects. In contrast to internships, in which students shadow a professional, externship students apply their skills to community outreach. Extension faculty proposed projects and…

  18. Extension Wellness Ambassadors: Individual Effects of Participation in a Health-Focused Master Volunteer Program

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Washburn, Lisa T.; Traywick, LaVona; Copeland, Lauren; Vincent, Jessica

    2017-01-01

    We present findings from a pilot implementation of the Extension Wellness Ambassador Program, a health-focused master volunteer program, and briefly describe the program approach and purpose. Program participants received 40 hr of training and completed assessments of self-efficacy, physical activity, and functional fitness at baseline and 3-month…

  19. Use of gene-expression programming to estimate Manning’s roughness coefficient for high gradient streams

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Azamathulla, H. Md.; Jarrett, Robert D.

    2013-01-01

    Manning’s roughness coefficient (n) has been widely used in the estimation of flood discharges or depths of flow in natural channels. Therefore, the selection of appropriate Manning’s nvalues is of paramount importance for hydraulic engineers and hydrologists and requires considerable experience, although extensive guidelines are available. Generally, the largest source of error in post-flood estimates (termed indirect measurements) is due to estimates of Manning’s n values, particularly when there has been minimal field verification of flow resistance. This emphasizes the need to improve methods for estimating n values. The objective of this study was to develop a soft computing model in the estimation of the Manning’s n values using 75 discharge measurements on 21 high gradient streams in Colorado, USA. The data are from high gradient (S > 0.002 m/m), cobble- and boulder-bed streams for within bank flows. This study presents Gene-Expression Programming (GEP), an extension of Genetic Programming (GP), as an improved approach to estimate Manning’s roughness coefficient for high gradient streams. This study uses field data and assessed the potential of gene-expression programming (GEP) to estimate Manning’s n values. GEP is a search technique that automatically simplifies genetic programs during an evolutionary processes (or evolves) to obtain the most robust computer program (e.g., simplify mathematical expressions, decision trees, polynomial constructs, and logical expressions). Field measurements collected by Jarrett (J Hydraulic Eng ASCE 110: 1519–1539, 1984) were used to train the GEP network and evolve programs. The developed network and evolved programs were validated by using observations that were not involved in training. GEP and ANN-RBF (artificial neural network-radial basis function) models were found to be substantially more effective (e.g., R2 for testing/validation of GEP and RBF-ANN is 0.745 and 0.65, respectively) than Jarrett’s (J Hydraulic Eng ASCE 110: 1519–1539, 1984) equation (R2 for testing/validation equals 0.58) in predicting the Manning’s n.

  20. MG SPROUTS: A Project-in-a-Box Approach to Educational Programming

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Dorn,Sheri; Slagle, Krissy

    2016-01-01

    MG SPROUTS was developed as a "project-in-a-box" program, a self-contained educational programming tool for Extension agents working with master gardener Extension volunteers (MGEVs). The program design incorporates programmatic materials and project management materials and follows best management practices for volunteer management. MG…

  1. Watershed Stewardship Education Program--A Multidisciplinary Extension Education Program for Oregon's Watershed Councils.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Conway, Flaxen D. L.; Godwin, Derek; Cloughesy, Mike; Nierenberg, Tara

    2003-01-01

    The Watershed Stewardship Education Program (WSEP) is a multidisciplinary Oregon Extension designed to help watershed councils, landowners, and others work effectively together on water management. Components include practical, easy-to-use educational materials, training in effective collaboration, a Master Watershed Stewards program, and advanced…

  2. 77 FR 11367 - Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement; Extension of the Test Program for Negotiation...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-02-24

    ... Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement; Extension of the Test Program for Negotiation of Comprehensive... Program for Negotiation of Comprehensive Small Business Subcontracting Plans. DATES: Effective Date... Fiscal Year 2012, (Pub. L. 112-81). Section 866 amends the DoD Test Program for Negotiation of...

  3. 76 FR 16000 - Voluntary Protection Programs Information; Extension of the Office of Management and Budget's...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-03-22

    ... management programs including how the programs successfully address management leadership and employee...] Voluntary Protection Programs Information; Extension of the Office of Management and Budget's (OMB's... concerning its proposal to extend the Office of Management and Budget's (OMB's) approval of the information...

  4. TOWN AND COUNTRY BUSINESS PROGRAM. (TITLE SUPPLIED).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    LEYENDECKER, P.J.

    THESE 14 PAMPHLETS CONSTITUTE AN EXTENSION SERVICE PROGRAM OUTLINE FOR TEACHING A BUSINESS PROGRAM APPLICABLE TO RURAL YOUTH. THE CONTENTS INCLUDE BOTH A LEADER'S GUIDE AND AN EXTENSION WORKER'S GUIDE. THE REMAINDER OF THE PROGRAM DELVES INTO MARKETING, WHOLESALING, SALES AND SERVICES, STANDARDS AND GRADES OF PRODUCE, ASSEMBLY AND STORAGE,…

  5. Utilizing a State Level Volunteer Recognition Program at the County Level

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    McCall, Fran Korthaus; Culp, Ken, III

    2013-01-01

    Volunteer recognition is an important component of Extension programs. Most land-grant universities have implemented a state volunteer recognition program. Extension professionals, however, are too overburdened with meetings, programs, and activities to effectively recognize volunteers locally. Utilizing a state model is an efficient means of…

  6. 77 FR 49782 - Extension of the Application Deadline for Humanitarian Awards Pilot Program

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-08-17

    ...] Extension of the Application Deadline for Humanitarian Awards Pilot Program AGENCY: United States Patent and... Trademark Office (USPTO) announced the Humanitarian Awards Pilot Program, which recognizes patent holders... extending the deadline for applications to the Humanitarian Awards Pilot Program by two months until October...

  7. The Role of Extension Nutrition Education in Student Achievement of Nutrition Standards in Grades K-3: A Descriptive Evaluation of a School-Based Program

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Arnold, Mary E.; Schreiber, Debera

    2012-01-01

    This article reports the results of a descriptive evaluation of the impact of an in-school Extension nutrition education program in a small, very rural county. The evaluation focused on understanding the nature of the role the Extension educator plays in delivering nutrition education, the impact of the program on student learning and achievement…

  8. Optical properties monitor: Experiment definition phase

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Wilkes, Donald R.; Bennett, Jean M.; Hummer, Leigh L.; Chipman, Russell A.; Hadaway, James B.; Pezzaniti, Larry

    1990-01-01

    The stability of materials used in the space environment will continue to be a limiting technology for space missions. The Optical Properties Monitor (OPM) Experiment provides a comprehensive space research program to study the effects of the space environment (both natural and induced) on optical, thermal and space power materials. The OPM Experiment was selected for definition under the NASA/OAST In-Space Technology Experiment Program. The results of the OPM Definition Phase are presented. The OPM experiment will expose selected materials to the space environment and measure the effects with in-space optical measurements. In-space measurements include total hemispherical reflectance total integrated scatter and VUV reflectance/transmittance. The in-space measurements will be augmented with extensive pre- and post-flight sample measurements to determine other optical, mechanical, electrical, chemical or surface effects of space exposure. Environmental monitors will provide the amount and time history of the sample exposure to solar irradiation, atomic oxygen and molecular contamination.

  9. Optical properties monitor: Experiment definition phase

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Wilkes, Donald R.; Bennett, Jean M.; Hummer, Leigh L.; Chipman, Russell A.; Hadaway, James B.; Pezzaniti, Larry

    1989-01-01

    The stability of materials used in the space environment will continue to be a limiting technology for space missions. The Optical Properties Monitor (OPM) Experiment provides a comprehensive space research program to study the effects of the space environment-both natural and induced-on optical, thermal and space power materials. The OPM Experiment was selected for definition under the NASA/OAST In-Space Technology Experiment Program. The results of the OPM Definition Phase are presented. The OPM Experiment will expose selected materials to the space environment and measure the effects with in-space optical measurements. In-space measurements include total hemispherical reflectance total integrated scatter and VUV reflectance/transmittance. The in-space measurements will be augmented with extensive pre- and post-flight sample measurements to determine other optical, mechanical, electrical, chemical or surface effects of space exposure. Environmental monitors will provide the amount and time history of the sample exposure to solar irradiation, atomic oxygen and molecular contamination.

  10. An assessment of laser velocimetry in hypersonic flow

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1992-01-01

    Although extensive progress has been made in computational fluid mechanics, reliable flight vehicle designs and modifications still cannot be made without recourse to extensive wind tunnel testing. Future progress in the computation of hypersonic flow fields is restricted by the need for a reliable mean flow and turbulence modeling data base which could be used to aid in the development of improved empirical models for use in numerical codes. Currently, there are few compressible flow measurements which could be used for this purpose. In this report, the results of experiments designed to assess the potential for laser velocimeter measurements of mean flow and turbulent fluctuations in hypersonic flow fields are presented. Details of a new laser velocimeter system which was designed and built for this test program are described.

  11. Use of Demonstration Gardens in Extension: Challenges and Benefits

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Glen, Charlotte D.; Moore, Gary E.; Jayaratne, K. S. U.; Bradley, Lucy K.

    2014-01-01

    Extension agents' use of demonstration gardens was studied to determine how gardens are employed in horticultural programming, perceived benefits and challenges of using gardens for Extension programming, and desired competencies. Gardens are primarily used to enhance educational efforts by providing hands-on learning experiences. Greatest…

  12. Interdisciplinary Professional Development Needs of Cooperative Extension Field Educators

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Sondgerath, Travis

    2016-01-01

    The study discussed in this article sought to identify cross-program professional development needs of county-based Extension professionals (field educators). The study instrument was completed by 105 county-based Extension professionals. Interdisciplinary topics, such as program evaluation and volunteer management, were identified as subjects of…

  13. 75 FR 70578 - Competitive and Noncompetitive Nonformula Federal Assistance Programs-Administrative Provisions...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-11-18

    ..., extension, and education programs on technology development and integrated research, extension, and education programs on technology implementation, in accordance with the purpose and priorities as described... the development, distribution, and implementation of biobased energy technologies; to promote...

  14. NASULGC Council on Extension, Committee on Program Innovation and Action Oriented Research; 1968 Report. Part 1. Program Innovations. Part 2. Action Oriented Research.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    National Association of State Universities and Land Grant Colleges, Washington, DC.

    This report on extension activities of member institutions of the National Association of State Universities and Land Grant Colleges describes 91 program innovations and action oriented research activities. Objectives, sponsorship, program evaluations, and other data are cited for program innovations in such areas as continuing medical education,…

  15. Commercialization of the British Extension Service: An American View.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Harter, Don

    1993-01-01

    Britain's decision to commercialize the Agricultural Development and Advisory Service has implications for extension programs in other countries. If programs now offered were commercialized, extension would no longer be an agency responsive to the public interest as a whole but would be driven by interests of paying clients. (JOW)

  16. University to Community and Back: Creating a Customer Focused Process.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Martin-Milius, Tara

    This paper examines ways in which university extension programs can become more customer-focused in the courses and services that they deliver, focusing on the experiences of the University of California Extension, Santa Cruz. Extension programs can increase their effectiveness by: (1) establishing partnerships with other service organizations,…

  17. Influencing woodland management using web-based technology

    Treesearch

    William R. Thomas; Jeffrey W. Stringer

    2011-01-01

    The University of Kentucky, Department of Forestry Extension delivered hosted Web-based forestry educational programs ("webinars") in 2009 to promote woodland management in Kentucky and engage county extension agents in forestry programming. These webinars were hosted by county extension agents and attended by woodland owners. This hosted webinar approach was...

  18. Writing Panels Articulate Extension Public Value in the West

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Carroll, Jan. B.; Dinstel, Roxie Rogers; Manton, Linda Marie

    2015-01-01

    In every era, publicly funded programs seek to document their value. During the centennial celebrations of Cooperative Extension's legislation and establishment, this cry for data became even louder and the demand more intense. The Western Extension Directors Association (WEDA) tasked their Western Region Program Leadership Committee (WRPLC) to…

  19. Community Leadership Development: Implications for Extension.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Northeast Regional Center for Rural Development, University Park, PA.

    Designed for extension personnel who are involved in community leadership (CL) programs, this publication summarizes recent national efforts that could be useful in developing and conducting CL programs, and current leadership theory and literature. Part 1 reports the results of the national survey, initiated in April 1985, of extension staff…

  20. Dare To Be You: A Diversion Program for First Time Juvenile Offenders.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Vail, Ann; Nest, Judy

    This document notes that community-based organizations such as the Cooperative Extension Service have joined the efforts to reduce juvenile delinquency through juvenile diversion programs. It then describes the "Dare to be You" program that was developed by the Colorado Cooperative Extension System. The six objectives of the program delineated in…

  1. A Retrospective Pretest-Posttest Evaluation of a One-Time Personal Finance Training

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Nielsen, Robert B.

    2011-01-01

    Attempts to measure the impact of Extension programs have been implemented to varying effects for many years. Using data from several economics of personal finance workshops designed to teach high school teachers about a state's new personal finance performance standards, this article reports the results from of one type of evaluation, a…

  2. A Constitutional System of Educational Accountability. Part III. [Sound Basic Education Task Force Proposal

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Campaign for Fiscal Equity, Inc., 2004

    2004-01-01

    In recent years, New York, like most other states, has adopted a set of challenging educational standards that are geared to preparing all students to be capable citizens and to compete in the global marketplace. The state has also implemented extensive Regents testing programs to measure student progress toward meeting the standards. These…

  3. Unlocking the forest inventory data: relating individual tree performance to unmeasured environmental factors

    Treesearch

    Jeremy W. Lichstein; Jonathan Dushoff; Kiona Ogle; Anping Chen; Drew W. Purves; John P. Caspersen; Stephen W. Pacala

    2010-01-01

    Geographically extensive forest inventories, such as the USDA Forest Service's Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) program, contain millions of individual tree growth and mortality records that could be used to develop broad-scale models of forest dynamics. A limitation of inventory data, however, is that individual-level measurements of light (L) and other...

  4. Forest Inventory and Analysis Database of the United States of America (FIA)

    Treesearch

    Andrew N. Gray; Thomas J. Brandeis; John D. Shaw; William H. McWilliams; Patrick Miles

    2012-01-01

    Extensive vegetation inventories established with a probabilistic design are an indispensable tool in describing distributions of species and community types and detecting changes in composition in response to climate or other drivers. The Forest Inventory and Analysis Program measures vegetation in permanent plots on forested lands across the United States of America...

  5. Something Old, Something New: MBA Program Evaluation Using Shift-Share Analysis and Google Trends

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Davis, Sarah M.; Rodriguez, A. E.

    2014-01-01

    Shift-share analysis is a decomposition technique that is commonly used to measure attributes of regional change. In this method, regional change is decomposed into its relevant functional and competitive parts. This paper introduces traditional shift-share method and its extensions with examples of its applicability and usefulness for program…

  6. FIADB vegetation diversity and structure indicator (VEG)

    Treesearch

    Bethany K. Schulz; Kevin Dobelbower

    2012-01-01

    The Vegetation Diversity and Structure (VEG) Indicator is a suite of measurements including an inventory of vascular plants on an extensive systematic network of forest plots across the United States. This network is a subset of the standard forest inventory plots established by the U.S. Forest Service Forest Inventory and Analysis program. The VEG indicator provides...

  7. Summary of ionizing radiation analysis on the Long Duration Exposure Facility

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Parnell, T. A.

    1991-01-01

    The Ionizing Radiation Special Investigation Group (IRSIG) for the Long Duration Exposure Facility (LDEF) was established to perform radiation measurements and analysis not planned in the original experiments, and to assure availability of LDEF analysis results in a form useful to future missions. The IRSIG has organized extensive induced radioactivity measurements throughout LDEF, and a comprehensive program to compare the LDEF radiation measurements to values calculated using environment models. The activities and present status of the Group is described. The ionizing radiation results presented is summarized.

  8. Object-oriented software for evaluating measurement uncertainty

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hall, B. D.

    2013-05-01

    An earlier publication (Hall 2006 Metrologia 43 L56-61) introduced the notion of an uncertain number that can be used in data processing to represent quantity estimates with associated uncertainty. The approach can be automated, allowing data processing algorithms to be decomposed into convenient steps, so that complicated measurement procedures can be handled. This paper illustrates the uncertain-number approach using several simple measurement scenarios and two different software tools. One is an extension library for Microsoft Excel®. The other is a special-purpose calculator using the Python programming language.

  9. Use of Balanced Scorecard Methodology for Performance Measurement of the Health Extension Program in Ethiopia

    PubMed Central

    Teklehaimanot, Hailay D.; Teklehaimanot, Awash; Tedella, Aregawi A.; Abdella, Mustofa

    2016-01-01

    In 2004, Ethiopia introduced a community-based Health Extension Program to deliver basic and essential health services. We developed a comprehensive performance scoring methodology to assess the performance of the program. A balanced scorecard with six domains and 32 indicators was developed. Data collected from 1,014 service providers, 433 health facilities, and 10,068 community members sampled from 298 villages were used to generate weighted national, regional, and agroecological zone scores for each indicator. The national median indicator scores ranged from 37% to 98% with poor performance in commodity availability, workforce motivation, referral linkage, infection prevention, and quality of care. Indicator scores showed significant difference by region (P < 0.001). Regional performance varied across indicators suggesting that each region had specific areas of strength and deficiency, with Tigray and the Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Region being the best performers while the mainly pastoral regions of Gambela, Afar, and Benishangul-Gumuz were the worst. The findings of this study suggest the need for strategies aimed at improving specific elements of the program and its performance in specific regions to achieve quality and equitable health services. PMID:26928842

  10. Use of Balanced Scorecard Methodology for Performance Measurement of the Health Extension Program in Ethiopia.

    PubMed

    Teklehaimanot, Hailay D; Teklehaimanot, Awash; Tedella, Aregawi A; Abdella, Mustofa

    2016-05-04

    In 2004, Ethiopia introduced a community-based Health Extension Program to deliver basic and essential health services. We developed a comprehensive performance scoring methodology to assess the performance of the program. A balanced scorecard with six domains and 32 indicators was developed. Data collected from 1,014 service providers, 433 health facilities, and 10,068 community members sampled from 298 villages were used to generate weighted national, regional, and agroecological zone scores for each indicator. The national median indicator scores ranged from 37% to 98% with poor performance in commodity availability, workforce motivation, referral linkage, infection prevention, and quality of care. Indicator scores showed significant difference by region (P < 0.001). Regional performance varied across indicators suggesting that each region had specific areas of strength and deficiency, with Tigray and the Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Region being the best performers while the mainly pastoral regions of Gambela, Afar, and Benishangul-Gumuz were the worst. The findings of this study suggest the need for strategies aimed at improving specific elements of the program and its performance in specific regions to achieve quality and equitable health services. © The American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene.

  11. Grandparents University: Wisconsin Program Unites Generations

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Geyer, Bonnie Hutchins; Brintnall-Peterson, Mary; Schutt, Sarah

    2004-01-01

    "Grandparents University", a program planned and sponsored collaboratively by the University of Wisconsin--Extension Cooperative Extension Family Living Programs and the Wisconsin Alumni Association, was designed to enhance the relationship that exists between the grandparent and grandchild. In July of each year, grandchildren between…

  12. Pediatric Specialty Care Model for Management of Chronic Respiratory Failure: Cost and Savings Implications and Misalignment With Payment Models.

    PubMed

    Graham, Robert J; McManus, Michael L; Rodday, Angie Mae; Weidner, Ruth Ann; Parsons, Susan K

    2018-05-01

    To describe program design, costs, and savings implications of a critical care-based care coordination model for medically complex children with chronic respiratory failure. All program activities and resultant clinical outcomes were tracked over 4 years using an adapted version of the Care Coordination Measurement Tool. Patient characteristics, program activity, and acute care resource utilization were prospectively documented in the adapted version of the Care Coordination Measurement Tool and retrospectively cross-validated with hospital billing data. Impact on total costs of care was then estimated based on program outcomes and nationally representative administrative data. Tertiary children's hospital. Critical Care, Anesthesia, Perioperative Extension and Home Ventilation Program enrollees. None. The program provided care for 346 patients and families over the study period. Median age at enrollment was 6 years with more than half deriving secondary respiratory failure from a primary neuromuscular disease. There were 11,960 encounters over the study period, including 1,202 home visits, 673 clinic visits, and 4,970 telephone or telemedicine encounters. Half (n = 5,853) of all encounters involved a physician and 45% included at least one care coordination activity. Overall, we estimated that program interventions were responsible for averting 556 emergency department visits and 107 hospitalizations. Conservative monetization of these alone accounted for annual savings of $1.2-2 million or $407/pt/mo net of program costs. Innovative models, such as extension of critical care services, for high-risk, high-cost patients can result in immediate cost savings. Evaluation of financial implications of comprehensive care for high-risk patients is necessary to complement clinical and patient-centered outcomes for alternative care models. When year-to-year cost variability is high and cost persistence is low, these savings can be estimated from documentation within care coordination management tools. Means of financial sustainability, scalability, and equal access of such care models need to be established.

  13. Partial ASL extensions for stochastic programming.

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

    Gay, David

    2010-03-31

    partially completed extensions for stochastic programming to the AMPL/solver interface library (ASL).modeling and experimenting with stochastic recourse problems. This software is not primarily for military applications

  14. What Is Your Library Worth? Extension Uses Public Value Workshops in Communities

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Haskell, Jane E.; Morse, George W.

    2015-01-01

    Public libraries are seeing flat or reduced funding even as demands for new services are increasing. Facing an identical problem, Extension developed a program to identify the indirect benefits to non-participants of Extension programs in order to encourage their public funding support. This educational approach was customized to public libraries…

  15. Extension Professionals' Perspectives on Supporting Feedstock Production for Biofuels: Concerns, Challenges, and Opportunities

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Townsend, Patricia A.; Haider, Nora M.; Asah, Stanley T.; Zobrist, Kevin W.

    2016-01-01

    The development of successful bioenergy programs will depend on informed and prepared Extension professionals who are willing and equipped to provide technical support. A survey of Extension professionals in the Pacific Northwest revealed barriers to program development, including limits on time and knowledge and concerns about economic returns…

  16. The Healthy Homes Partnership: A Cooperative Extension Model

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Booth, Laura B.; Peek, Gina G.

    2013-01-01

    This article highlights the accomplishments of the Healthy Homes Partnership, which recently celebrated its 10th anniversary. Since the program began in 1999, funds totaling $2.7 million have been distributed to 34 states and Virgin Islands Extension programs through a competitive process. Extension professionals have used the funds as seed grants…

  17. A Case Study in Organizational Change: Evaluation in Cooperative Extension

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rennekamp, Roger A.; Engle, Molly

    2008-01-01

    This chapter examines how factors both internal and external to Cooperative Extension have influenced its commitment and capability to assess the quality and impact of its programs. The authors begin by documenting how the nature of Extension programming has changed dramatically in response to societal needs over the course of the organization's…

  18. E-Newsletters: A Simple Way to Integrate Technology with Extension Programming

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Erickson, Luke; Hansen, Lyle

    2012-01-01

    Extension educators can easily include technology in regular programming. Several Extension faculty conducted a survey to determine the overall effectiveness of a electronic newsletter (e-newsletter). Results indicated that this e-newsletter had a wide viral reach, provided strong local impact in terms of confidence and behavior changes, increased…

  19. Institutional Commitment to Sustainability: An Evaluation of Natural Resource Extension Programs in Universities in Alabama and Oregon

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Broussard, Shorna R.; Bliss, John C.

    2007-01-01

    Purpose: The purpose of this research is to determine institutional commitment to sustainability by examining Natural Resource Extension program inputs, activities, and participation. Design/methodology/approach: A document analysis of Natural Resource Extension planning and reporting documents was conducted to provide contextual and historical…

  20. A Global Worldview among Extension Professionals: A Case Study of Best Practices for Study Abroad Programs

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lockett, Landry; Moore, Lori; Wingenbach, Gary

    2014-01-01

    Globalization and diversifying communities in the United States mandate internationally minded Extension professionals and programming. The knowledge necessary for successfully working in international agricultural and Extension education is vast and takes time to acquire. A catalyst for this learning process is participation in university- or…

  1. Online Extensive Reading for Advanced Foreign Language Learners: An Evaluation Study

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Arnold, Nike

    2009-01-01

    The following article reports the findings of a qualitative evaluation of an online extensive reading program in German as a foreign language. Designed for advanced learners, it differs from traditional extensive reading programs in two important aspects: students read online instead of printed materials, and there was no teacher preselection to…

  2. The Extension Service as a Resource in Planning at the Local Level.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wynn, Eddie D.; Jacob, Nelson L.

    Examining the role of Clemson University's Cooperative Extension Service in the planning stages of a Title V Community and Resource Development (CRD) program in South Carolina's rural Williamsburg County, this paper describes the Extension's 14-month involvement. The following specifics are addressed: (1) South Carolina's Title V program (staffed…

  3. Connecticut Sea Grant: Making a Difference. Program Highlights, Accomplishments, and Impacts, 2001-2006

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Van Patten, M., Ed.

    2007-01-01

    The University of Connecticut (UConn) is the formally designated Sea Grant College for the State of Connecticut, serving as the "flagship" university for the Connecticut Sea Grant College Program (CTSG). While a small marine extension program began in 1974 in conjunction with the Cooperative Extension System, the program did not receive…

  4. The National Research Initiative Competitive Grants Program in animal reproduction: changes in priorities and scope relevant to United States animal agriculture.

    PubMed

    Mirando, M A

    2007-03-01

    The National Research Initiative (NRI) Competitive Grants Program is the USDA's major competitive grants program and is administered by the Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service. The NRI was authorized by the US Congress in the 1990 Farm Bill at a funding level of $500 million; however, the maximal NRI appropriation was $181.17 million in fiscal year (FY) 2006. Across all programs, the NRI is mandated to use 40% of its funding to support mission-linked research. Since its inception in 1991, the NRI has funded competitive grants in the discipline of animal reproduction. Before 2004, the Animal Reproduction Program funded a broad range of projects encompassing almost every subdiscipline in reproductive biology of farm animals, including aquatic species important to the aquaculture industry and laboratory animals. During FY 2004, the NRI Animal Reproduction Program narrowed the focus of its funding priorities to 5 issue-based topics in an effort to make greater measurable improvements in a few high-impact areas over the next 10 years. Funding priorities were narrowed further in FY 2006 to 3 subdisciplines based, in part, on recommendations that emerged from a stakeholder workshop conducted by Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service in August 2004. In FY 2003, Congress authorized expenditure of up to 20% of the funds appropriated to the NRI to support projects that integrate at least 2 of the 3 functions of research, education, and extension. In FY 2004, the Animal Reproduction Program included a funding priority for integrated projects focused primarily on infertility in dairy cattle. The program funded its first integrated project in FY 2005. During FY 2002, increased emphasis on justification for the use of model systems (e.g., laboratory animals and in vitro systems) was included in the NRI request for applications. In FY 2006, applications proposing to primarily utilize nonagricultural animal models were excluded from the program. Currently, all proposed studies must be thoroughly justified in terms of their relevance to US animal agriculture and to program priorities identified within the request for applications.

  5. Measurement of fault latency in a digital avionic mini processor, part 2

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Mcgough, J.; Swern, F.

    1983-01-01

    The results of fault injection experiments utilizing a gate-level emulation of the central processor unit of the Bendix BDX-930 digital computer are described. Several earlier programs were reprogrammed, expanding the instruction set to capitalize on the full power of the BDX-930 computer. As a final demonstration of fault coverage an extensive, 3-axis, high performance flght control computation was added. The stages in the development of a CPU self-test program emphasizing the relationship between fault coverage, speed, and quantity of instructions were demonstrated.

  6. Behavioral predictors of attrition in adolescents participating in a multidisciplinary obesity treatment program: EVASYON study.

    PubMed

    De Miguel-Etayo, P; Muro, C; Santabárbara, J; López-Antón, R; Morandé, G; Martín-Matillas, M; Azcona-San Julián, M C; Martí, A; Campoy, C; Marcos, A; Moreno, L A; Garagorri, J M

    2016-01-01

    The aims of this study were to identify the cognitive and behavioral predictors of dropping out and to estimate the attrition rate during different phases of an intervention program to treat overweight and obesity in adolescents. Overweight/obese adolescents (n=156, aged: 13-16 years; 71 male and 85 female subjects) were included in a multicomponent (diet, physical activity and psychological support) family-based group treatment program. At baseline and after 2 months (intensive phase) and 13 months (extensive phase) of follow-up, we measured adolescents' cognitive and behavioral dimensions, together with the parents' perception of their child's behavior. Of the 156 adolescents selected, 112 completed the full program (drop-out rate of 28.2%). The risk of dropping out during the extensive phase increased by 20% for each unit increase in the adolescent's social insecurity score (odds ratio=1.20, 95% confidence interval=1.07-1.34, P=0.002). The adolescents who had a high interoceptive awareness showed a significant decrease of 13.0% in the probability of dropping out (odds ratio=0.87, 95% confidence interval=0.77-0.99, P=0.040). Adolescents' social insecurity was the main predictor of drop-out in a multicomponent family-group-based obesity treatment program. To reduce attrition rates in these programs, the individual's social insecurity level needs to be reduced, whereas the family's awareness of eating-related behavior needs adjustment.

  7. 75 FR 15693 - Extension of Web-Based TRICARE Assistance Program Demonstration Project

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-03-30

    ... DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE Office of the Secretary Extension of Web-Based TRICARE Assistance Program Demonstration Project AGENCY: Department of Defense (DoD). ACTION: Notice of a Web-Based TRICARE Assistance... States Code, Section 1092, entitled Web-Based TRICARE Assistance Program. This demonstration was...

  8. Signature extension for spectral variation in soils, volume 4

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Berry, J. K.; Smith, J. A.; Jonranson, K.

    1976-01-01

    The reduced 1975-1976 field data at Garden City, Kansas are presented. These data are being used to evaluate the SRVC model predictions, to compare the ERIM-SUITS model with both the SRVC results and field data, and finally, to provide a data base for reviewing multitemporal trajectories. In particular, the applicability of the tasselled cap transformation is reviewed. The first detailed verification of this approach utilizing actual field measured data from the LACIE field measurement program, rather than LANDSAT data, is given.

  9. NOVA-2 -- A Digital Computer Program for Analyzing Nuclear Overpressure Effects on Aircraft. Part 1. Theory

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1976-08-01

    extensive areas of good agreement with measured loadings where the prediction is based on acoustic theory. Acoustic theory as applied to thin airfoils...Acoustic thaory ha« baen demonstrated by references 12 through 18 to provide fairly good agreeaent with measured airloads due to blast and shock... ia found to riae to large values near the leading edge. Higher observed values of Ac further rearward of the leading edge ere found to compel

  10. Engineering and programming manual: Two-dimensional kinetic reference computer program (TDK)

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Nickerson, G. R.; Dang, L. D.; Coats, D. E.

    1985-01-01

    The Two Dimensional Kinetics (TDK) computer program is a primary tool in applying the JANNAF liquid rocket thrust chamber performance prediction methodology. The development of a methodology that includes all aspects of rocket engine performance from analytical calculation to test measurements, that is physically accurate and consistent, and that serves as an industry and government reference is presented. Recent interest in rocket engines that operate at high expansion ratio, such as most Orbit Transfer Vehicle (OTV) engine designs, has required an extension of the analytical methods used by the TDK computer program. Thus, the version of TDK that is described in this manual is in many respects different from the 1973 version of the program. This new material reflects the new capabilities of the TDK computer program, the most important of which are described.

  11. Agricultural Extension Agents' Perceptions of Effective Teaching Strategies for Adult Learners in the Master Beef Producer Program

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Strong, Robert; Harder, Amy; Carter, Hannah

    2010-01-01

    The purpose of the study reported here was to explore and describe how Extension agents selected teaching strategies for adult audiences. Andragogy is hypotheses concerning the attributes of adult learners (Knowles, Swanson, & Holton III, 2005). Extension agents responsible for teaching the Master Beef Producer (MBP) program were purposively…

  12. Attitudes of County Leaders toward Expanding Adult Programs in Extension: Minnesota Expansion Study I.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wilson, Duane A.; And Others

    A study was conducted in Minnesota on attitudes of county leaders (commissioners, auditors, and appointed Extension committee members) on ways of expanding Extension programs. In each county data were gathered by questionnaire from at least two thirds of the leaders. Questions were asked about expansion (1) through working with other…

  13. Perceptions of 1987 Master Gardener Participants toward the Use of Satellite Telecommunications for Educational/Extension Delivery.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Eckles, Stephen G.; Miller, W. Wade

    The 1987 Master Gardener program was presented at 16 locations in Iowa, where weekday sessions were supplemented with Saturday satellite telecasts. This cooperative extension service program provided special training in horticulture to members of the local community who would then work as volunteers through their local cooperative extension office…

  14. Improving Healthy Living Youth Development Program Outreach in Extension: Lessons Learned from the 4-H Health Rocks! Program

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kumaran, Muthusami; Fogarty, Kate; Fung, Whitney M.; Terminello, Amanda

    2015-01-01

    This article discusses a qualitative evaluation of the Florida 4-H Health Rocks! program aimed at youth alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use prevention. A questionnaire was distributed to Extension professionals across Florida to gain insight into the strengths and barriers they faced with programming. Programmatic strengths included targeting a…

  15. Results of the noise measurement program on a standard and modified OH-6A helicopter

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Henderson, H. R.; Peegg, R. J.; Hilton, D. A.

    1973-01-01

    A field noise measurement program has been conducted on a standard OH-6A helicopter and one that had been modified by reducing the rotor speed, altering rotor tip shape, and treating the engine exhaust and inlet to reduce the external noise levels. The modifications consisted of extensive aircraft design changes resulting in substantial noise reductions following state-of-art noise reduction techniques. The purpose of this study was to document the ground noise characteristics of each helicopter during flyover, hover, landing, and take-off operations. Based on an analysis of the measured results, the average of the overall on-track noise levels of the final modified helicopter was approximately 14 db lower than that for the standard helicopter. Narrow-band-spectra data of the hovering helicopter show a reduction in the overall noise due to the reductions achieved for the lifting main and antitorque tail rotor, engine exhaust, and gear box noise for the modified helicopter. The noise results of the test program are found to correlate generally with noise measurements made previously on this type of aircraft.

  16. Quality measures and pediatric radiology: suggestions for the transition to value-based payment.

    PubMed

    Heller, Richard E; Coley, Brian D; Simoneaux, Stephen F; Podberesky, Daniel J; Hernanz-Schulman, Marta; Robertson, Richard L; Donnelly, Lane F

    2017-06-01

    Recent political and economic factors have contributed to a meaningful change in the way that quality in health care, and by extension value, are viewed. While quality is often evaluated on the basis of subjective criteria, pay-for-performance programs that link reimbursement to various measures of quality require use of objective and quantifiable measures. This evolution to value-based payment was accelerated by the 2015 passage of the Medicare Access and CHIP (Children's Health Insurance Program) Reauthorization Act (MACRA). While many of the drivers of these changes are rooted in federal policy and programs such as Medicare and aimed at adult patients, the practice of pediatrics and pediatric radiology will be increasingly impacted. This article addresses issues related to the use of quantitative measures to evaluate the quality of services provided by the pediatric radiology department or sub-specialty section, particularly as seen from the viewpoint of a payer that may be considering ways to link payment to performance. The paper concludes by suggesting a metric categorization strategy to frame future work on the subject.

  17. Homer City Multistream Coal Cleaning Demonstration: A progress report. Report for January 1979-July 1983

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

    Carey, D.W.; Higgins, S.T.; Slowik, A.A.

    1984-08-01

    The report gives an overview of ongoing testing and evaluation of the Homer City Coal Cleaning Plant, built to enable the Homer City Power Complex to meet sulfur dioxide (SO2) emission levels mandated by the State of Pennsylvania and the U.S. Government. The plant was constructed as a result of an extensive comparative evaluation of flue gas desulfurization (FGD) and physical coal cleaning. The Homer City System, the Multistream Coal Cleaning System (MCCS), was chosen as an economical alternative to FGD. The plant contains circuits for cleaning coarse, medium, and fine coals and for recovering fine and very fine coals.more » The dominant type of cleaning equipment used in the plant is the dense medium cyclone. The original '93 plant' configuration was never able to clean coal to the conditions specified in the plant design. An extensive test and evaluation program was begun to identify and correct the causes of plant operating problems. After extensive pilot plant equipment tests and engineering studies were completed, recommendations were made for plant modifications necessary to correct the design and operating deficiencies of the plant. Extensive modifications were made to one of two parallel processing trains in the plant (the 'B' circuits), and a test program was initiated to evaluate these corrective measures. The modified 'B' circuits have not yet met design conditions.« less

  18. 78 FR 63464 - William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program Repayment Plan Selection Form; Extension of Public...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-10-24

    ... DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program Repayment Plan Selection Form; Extension of Public Comment Period; Correction AGENCY: Department of Education. ACTION: Correction notice... entitled, ``William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program Repayment Plan Selection Form''. ED is extending...

  19. 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...

  20. 78 FR 66670 - Housing Counseling Program: New Certification Requirements; Extension of Public Comment Period

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-11-06

    ... Counseling Program: New Certification Requirements; Extension of Public Comment Period AGENCY: Office of the... inviting public comment on proposed changes to the Housing Counseling Program regulations for the purpose... housing counseling statute. This document announces that HUD is extending the public comment period, for...

  1. Emergency Food Programs: Untapped Opportunities for Extension?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mobley, Amy R.

    2012-01-01

    This article reports results from a questionnaire that assessed the frequency and type of nutrition questions asked at emergency food programs to determine if Extension professionals need to increase direct outreach efforts. Emergency food program workers (n = 460) were recruited via mail to complete a self-administered survey. More than one-third…

  2. 78 FR 65621 - Implementation of Title I/II Program Initiatives; Extension of Public Comment Period; Correction

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-11-01

    ... DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Implementation of Title I/II Program Initiatives; Extension of Public Comment Period; Correction AGENCY: Department of Education. ACTION: Correction notice. SUMMARY: On October... Title I/II Program Initiatives,'' Docket ID ED- 2013-ICCD-0090. The comment period for this information...

  3. Meeting Extension Programming Needs with Technology: A Case Study of Agritourism Webinars

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rich, Samantha Rozier; Komar, Stephen; Schilling, Brian; Tomas, Stacy R.; Carleo, Jenny; Colucci, Susan J.

    2011-01-01

    As clientele needs diversify, Extension educators are examining new technologies, including online tools, to deliver educational programming and resources. Using agritourism as the educational topic, the study reported here sought to evaluate participants' acceptance of online educational programming (webinars) and the effectiveness of the…

  4. An assessment of autumn olive in northern U.S. forests

    Treesearch

    Cassandra M. Kurtz; Mark H. Hansen

    2016-01-01

    This publication is part of a series of research notes that provide an overview of the invasive plant species monitored on an extensive systematic network of plots measured by the Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) program of the U.S. Forest Service, Northern Research Station (NRS). Each research note features one of the invasive plants monitored on forested plots by...

  5. An assessment of nonnative bush honeysuckle in northern U.S. forests

    Treesearch

    Cassandra Kurtz; M.H. Hansen

    2015-01-01

    This publication is part of a series that provides an overview of the presence of invasive plant species monitored on an extensive systematic network of plots measured by the Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) program of the U.S. Forest Service, Northern Research Station (NRS). Each research note features one of the invasive plants monitored on forested plots by NRS...

  6. An assessment of Japanese stiltgrass in northern U.S. forests

    Treesearch

    Cassandra M. Kurtz; Mark H. Hansen

    2017-01-01

    This publication is part of a series of research notes that provides an overview of the presence of invasive plant species monitored on an extensive systematic network of plots measured by the Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) program of the U.S. Forest Service, Northern Research Station (NRS). Each research note features one of the invasive plants monitored on...

  7. Low Vitamin D Status and Inadequate Nutrient Intakes of Elementary School Children in a Highly Educated Pacific Northwest Community

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Frei, Simone; Frei, Balz; Bobe, Gerd

    2014-01-01

    Are Extension healthy youth programs needed in highly educated U.S. communities? To answer this question, 175 children from four public elementary schools in Corvallis, Oregon, self-reported in a cross-sectional study their dietary intake, and 71 children provided a blood sample for measuring vitamin D concentrations. Most children had…

  8. An assessment of common buckthorn in northern U.S. forests

    Treesearch

    Cassandra M. Kurtz; Mark H. Hansen

    2018-01-01

    This publication is part of a series of that provides an overview of the presence of invasive plant species monitored on an extensive systematic network of plots measured by the Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) program of the USDA Forest Service, Northern Research Station (NRS). Each research note features one of the invasive plants monitored on forested plots by...

  9. An assessment of Japanese honeysuckle in northern U.S. forests

    Treesearch

    Cassandra M. Kurtz; Mark H. Hansen

    2015-01-01

    This publication is part of a series that provides an overview of the presence of invasive plant species monitored on an extensive systematic network of plots measured by the Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) program of the U.S. Forest Service, Northern Research Station (NRS). Each research note features one of the invasive plants monitored on forested plots by NRS...

  10. An assessment of garlic mustard in northern U.S. forests

    Treesearch

    Cassandra M. Kurtz; Mark H. Hansen

    2014-01-01

    This publication is part of a series that provides an overview of the presence of invasive plant species monitored on an extensive systematic network of plots measured by the Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) program of the U.S. Forest Service, Northern Research Station (NRS). Each research note features one of the invasive plants monitored on forested plots by FIA...

  11. Measuring Best Practices for Workplace Safety, Health, and Well-Being: The Workplace Integrated Safety and Health Assessment.

    PubMed

    Sorensen, Glorian; Sparer, Emily; Williams, Jessica A R; Gundersen, Daniel; Boden, Leslie I; Dennerlein, Jack T; Hashimoto, Dean; Katz, Jeffrey N; McLellan, Deborah L; Okechukwu, Cassandra A; Pronk, Nicolaas P; Revette, Anna; Wagner, Gregory R

    2018-05-01

    To present a measure of effective workplace organizational policies, programs, and practices that focuses on working conditions and organizational facilitators of worker safety, health and well-being: the workplace integrated safety and health (WISH) assessment. Development of this assessment used an iterative process involving a modified Delphi method, extensive literature reviews, and systematic cognitive testing. The assessment measures six core constructs identified as central to best practices for protecting and promoting worker safety, health and well-being: leadership commitment; participation; policies, programs, and practices that foster supportive working conditions; comprehensive and collaborative strategies; adherence to federal and state regulations and ethical norms; and data-driven change. The WISH Assessment holds promise as a tool that may inform organizational priority setting and guide research around causal pathways influencing implementation and outcomes related to these approaches.

  12. Developing an online certification program for nutrition education assistants.

    PubMed

    Christofferson, Debra; Christensen, Nedra; LeBlanc, Heidi; Bunch, Megan

    2012-01-01

    To develop an online certification program for nutrition education paraprofessionals to increase knowledge and confidence and to overcome training barriers of programming time and travel expenses. An online interactive certification course based on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program-Education and Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program core competencies was delivered to employees of both programs. Traditional vs online training was compared. Course content validity was determined through expert review by registered dietitians. Parameters studied included increase of nutrition knowledge and teaching technique/ability, educator satisfaction, and programming costs related to training. Utah State University Extension. Twenty-two Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program-Education and Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program educators in Utah. Knowledge and skills were measured using pre/posttest statistics. Participant satisfaction was measured with a survey. Paired t test; satisfaction survey. The change in paraprofessional knowledge score was statistically significant (P < .001). Forty percent of paraprofessionals strongly agreed and 60% agreed they were better prepared as nutrition educators because of the training. An estimated $16,000 was saved by providing the training online as compared to a face-to-face training. This interactive online program is a cost-effective way to increase paraprofessional knowledge and job satisfaction. Copyright © 2012 Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Reliability and validity of the Performance Recorder 1 for measuring isometric knee flexor and extensor strength.

    PubMed

    Neil, Sarah E; Myring, Alec; Peeters, Mon Jef; Pirie, Ian; Jacobs, Rachel; Hunt, Michael A; Garland, S Jayne; Campbell, Kristin L

    2013-11-01

    Muscular strength is a key parameter of rehabilitation programs and a strong predictor of functional capacity. Traditional methods to measure strength, such as manual muscle testing (MMT) and hand-held dynamometry (HHD), are limited by the strength and experience of the tester. The Performance Recorder 1 (PR1) is a strength assessment tool attached to resistance training equipment and may be a time- and cost-effective tool to measure strength in clinical practice that overcomes some limitations of MMT and HHD. However, reliability and validity of the PR1 have not been reported. Test-retest and inter-rater reliability was assessed using the PR1 in healthy adults (n  =  15) during isometric knee flexion and extension. Criterion-related validity was assessed through comparison of values obtained from the PR1 and Biodex® isokinetic dynamometer. Test-retest reliability was excellent for peak knee flexion (intra-class correlation coefficient [ICC] of 0.96, 95% CI: 0.85, 0.99) and knee extension (ICC  =  0.96, 95% CI: 0.87, 0.99). Inter-rater reliability was also excellent for peak knee flexion (ICC  =  0.95, 95% CI: 0.85, 0.99) and peak knee extension (ICC  =  0.97, 95% CI: 0.91, 0.99). Validity was moderate for peak knee flexion (ICC  =  0.75, 95% CI: 0.38, 0.92) but poor for peak knee extension (ICC  =  0.37, 95% CI: 0, 0.73). The PR1 provides a reliable measure of isometric knee flexor and extensor strength in healthy adults that could be used in the clinical setting, but absolute values may not be comparable to strength assessment by gold-standard measures.

  14. Secretary's report to Congress. Secretary's statement, program review and outlook

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    1982-08-01

    All elements of the Department of Energy are discussed. Three annexes are included: the Fifth Report to Congress - Comprehensive Program and Plan for Federal Energy Education, Extension, and Information Activities (Published December 1981 by the Office of State and Local Programs, Office of Conservation and Renewable Energy, US Department of Energy); Third Annual Report to Congress on the Automotive Technology Development Program (Published February 16, 1982, by the Office of Vehicle and Engine Research and Development, Office of Conservation and Renewable Energy,US Department of Energy); and Observations and Recommendations on the Future of the Energy Extension Service Program; Fourth Report by the National Energy Extension Service Advisory Board (Published January 182 by the Office of State and Local Programs, Office of Conservation and Renewable Energy, US Department of Energy).

  15. Representing and comparing protein structures as paths in three-dimensional space

    PubMed Central

    Zhi, Degui; Krishna, S Sri; Cao, Haibo; Pevzner, Pavel; Godzik, Adam

    2006-01-01

    Background Most existing formulations of protein structure comparison are based on detailed atomic level descriptions of protein structures and bypass potential insights that arise from a higher-level abstraction. Results We propose a structure comparison approach based on a simplified representation of proteins that describes its three-dimensional path by local curvature along the generalized backbone of the polypeptide. We have implemented a dynamic programming procedure that aligns curvatures of proteins by optimizing a defined sum turning angle deviation measure. Conclusion Although our procedure does not directly optimize global structural similarity as measured by RMSD, our benchmarking results indicate that it can surprisingly well recover the structural similarity defined by structure classification databases and traditional structure alignment programs. In addition, our program can recognize similarities between structures with extensive conformation changes that are beyond the ability of traditional structure alignment programs. We demonstrate the applications of procedure to several contexts of structure comparison. An implementation of our procedure, CURVE, is available as a public webserver. PMID:17052359

  16. Watersheds and Water Policy Funding From USDA-CSREES: Vision, Outlook, and Priorities

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cavallaro, N.

    2006-05-01

    The Cooperative State Research, Education and Extension Service (CSREES) of the United States Department of Agriculture funds research, extension, and education grants in all aspects of agriculture, the environment, human health and well-being, and communities. Water is key natural resource for all of these areas and there are several types of funding opportunities available. The primary sources for watersheds and water management funding within CSREES are the Water and Watersheds program of the National Research Initiative, and the National Integrated Research, Education and Extension Program in Water Quality. These two programs have substantially reduced their focus in the last three years in order to meet the federal budget office demands for measurable outcomes. This paper will discuss the current and priorities and likely trends in funding in these areas. In addition, to the above two programs, agricultural water security is a prominent issue related to water management and policy. A recent listening session on agricultural water security and policy resulted in white paper available on the CSREES website. This paper will also describe a recommended strategy for CSREES efforts and current and projected needs and opportunities. Briefly, six themes for research, education, and extension activities were identified: Irrigation Efficiency and Management; Drought Risk Assessment and Preparedness; General Water Conservation and Management; Rural/Urban Water Reuse; Water Marketing, Distribution and Allocation; and Biotechnology. Of these six themes, it was recommended that CSREES should focus on the three: 1.Exploring new technologies and systems for the use of recycled/reuse water in agricultural, rural, and urbanizing watersheds, 2.Probing the human, social, and economic dimensions of agricultural water security (including water markets) with a focus on adoption-outreach and behavioral change, and 3.Discovering biotechnological improvements in water use efficiency of crop and horticultural plants to achieve greater "crop per drop."

  17. Cooperative Extension as a Framework for Health Extension: The Michigan State University Model.

    PubMed

    Dwyer, Jeffrey W; Contreras, Dawn; Eschbach, Cheryl L; Tiret, Holly; Newkirk, Cathy; Carter, Erin; Cronk, Linda

    2017-10-01

    The Affordable Care Act charged the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality to create the Primary Care Extension Program, but did not fund this effort. The idea to work through health extension agents to support health care delivery systems was based on the nationally known Cooperative Extension System (CES). Instead of creating new infrastructure in health care, the CES is an ideal vehicle for increasing health-related research and primary care delivery. The CES, a long-standing component of the land-grant university system, features a sustained infrastructure for providing education to communities. The Michigan State University (MSU) Model of Health Extension offers another means of developing a National Primary Care Extension Program that is replicable in part because of the presence of the CES throughout the United States. A partnership between the MSU College of Human Medicine and MSU Extension formed in 2014, emphasizing the promotion and support of human health research. The MSU Model of Health Extension includes the following strategies: building partnerships, preparing MSU Extension educators for participation in research, increasing primary care patient referrals and enrollment in health programs, and exploring innovative funding. Since the formation of the MSU Model of Health Extension, researchers and extension professionals have made 200+ connections, and grants have afforded savings in salary costs. The MSU College of Human Medicine and MSU Extension partnership can serve as a model to promote health partnerships nationwide between CES services within land-grant universities and academic health centers or community-based medical schools.

  18. 75 FR 30385 - Defense Transportation Regulation, Part IV

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-06-01

    ... extensions will be considered due to the timelines associated with funding and programming future Phase III... extensions will be considered due to the timelines associated with funding and programming future Phase III...

  19. Relationship between antigravity control and postural control in young children.

    PubMed

    Sellers, J S

    1988-04-01

    The purposes of this study were 1) to determine the relationship between antigravity control (supine flexion and prone extension) and postural control (static and dynamic balance), 2) to determine the quality of antigravity and postural control, and 3) to determine whether sex and ethnic group differences correlate with differences in antigravity control and postural control in young children. I tested 107 black, Hispanic, and Caucasian children in a Head Start program, with a mean age of 61 months. The study results showed significant relationships between antigravity control and postural control. Subjects' supine flexion performance was significantly related to the quantity and quality of their static and dynamic balance performance, whereas prone extension performance was related only to the quality of dynamic balance performance. Quality scale measurements (r = .90) indicated that the children in this study had not yet developed full antigravity or postural control. The study results revealed differences between sexes in the quality of static balance and prone extension performance and ethnic differences in static balance, dynamic balance, and prone extension performance.

  20. Influence of Adding Single-Joint Exercise to a Multijoint Resistance Training Program in Untrained Young Women.

    PubMed

    Barbalho, Matheus; Gentil, Paulo; Raiol, Rodolfo; Fisher, James; Steele, James; Coswig, Victor

    2018-05-15

    Barbalho, M, Gentil, P, Raiol, R, Fisher, J, Steele, J, and Coswig, V. Influence of adding single-joint exercise to a multijoint resistance training program in untrained young women. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2018-The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of adding single-joint (SJ) exercises to a multijoint (MJ) resistance training (RT) program on muscle strength and anthropometric measures of young women. Twenty untrained women were divided into a group that performed only MJ exercises or a group that performed both SJ and MJ exercises (MJ + SJ). Before and after 8 weeks of training, the participants were tested for 10 repetition maximum (10RM). Flexed arm circumference and triceps and biceps skinfold thickness were also measured. Both groups significantly decreased biceps (-3.60% for MJ and -3.55% for MJ + SJ) and triceps skinfold (-3.05% for MJ and -2.98% for MJ + SJ), with no significant difference between them. Flexed arm circumference significantly increased in both groups; however, increases in MJ + SJ (4.39%) were significantly greater than MJ (3.50%). Increases in 10RM load in elbow extension (28.2% for MJ and 28.0% for MJ + SJ), elbow flexion (29.8% for MJ and 28.7% for MJ + SJ), and knee extension (26.92% for MJ and 23.86% for MJ + SJ) were all significant and not different between groups. The results showed that adding SJ exercises to an MJ RT program resulted in no benefits in muscle performance or anthropometric changes in untrained women.

  1. 78 FR 76628 - Pilot Program for Parallel Review of Medical Products; Extension of the Duration of the Program

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-12-18

    ...The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) (the Agencies) are announcing the extension of the ``Pilot Program for Parallel Review of Medical Products.'' The Agencies have decided to continue the program as currently designed for an additional period of 2 years from the date of publication of this notice.

  2. Developing a Contemporary Dairy Foods Extension Program: A Training and Technical Resource Needs Assessment of Pennsylvania Dairy Foods Processors

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Syrko, Joseph; Kaylegian, Kerry E.

    2015-01-01

    Growth in the dairy industry and the passage of the Food Safety Modernization Act have renewed interest in dairy foods processing extension positions. A needs assessment survey was sent to Pennsylvania dairy processors and raw milk providers to guide priorities for a dairy foods extension program. The successful development and delivery of…

  3. You're on Camera---in Color; A Television Handbook for Extension Workers.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Tonkin, Joe

    Color television has brought about new concepts of programming and new production requirements. This handbook is designed to aid those Extension workers who are concerned with or will appear on Extension television programs. The book discusses how to make the most of color, what to wear and how to apply makeup for color TV, how colors appear on…

  4. The Effects of an Extensive Reading Program on Improving English as Foreign Language Proficiency in University Level Education

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Alzu'bi, Mohammad Akram

    2014-01-01

    This study aimed at investigating the impact of extensive reading on improving reading proficiency. The study tried to find the effect of ER on EFL student's reading, vocabulary and grammar. The researcher designed two instruments; a program based on the extensive reading strategy and general test. Forty-one university students who study English…

  5. A STUDY OF NORTH CAROLINA AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION AGENTS' PERCEPTION OF THE ROLE OF FERTILIZER DEALERS IN EXTENSION PROGRAMMING.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    WOODARD, BRUCE H.

    A QUESTIONNAIRE MAILED TO 98 AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION AGENTS IN NORTH CAROLINA WITH PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY IN AGRONOMY IN THEIR COUNTIES WAS USED TO COLLECT DATA ON THE AGENTS' PERCEPTION OF THE NATURE AND FREQUENCY OF PERFORMANCE BY DEALERS IN SOIL FERTILITY PROGRAMS, AGENTS' FEELINGS ABOUT DEALER PARTICIPATION, AND THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN AGENTS'…

  6. An Historical Analysis of the Development of Selected Areas of University Extension Programs in the United States, 1900-1965, as Related in Professional Literature.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Jessup, Michael Hyle

    This study is concerned with the historical development of certain areas of university extension--credit and noncredit courses, correspondence study, and conferences, institutes, and short courses--which appear widespread and important in current extension programs. Credit and noncredit courses and correspondence study were among the earliest…

  7. 78 FR 34962 - American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Services Program; Proposed Waivers and Extensions of...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-06-11

    ... Vocational Rehabilitation Services (AIVRS) Program in the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA): eight... funds under this program. Further, if the proposed waivers and extensions are made final, RSA would not... that RSA has the authority to make an AIVRS grant effective for more than 60 months, pursuant to...

  8. Raising Awareness of Assistive Technology in Older Adults through a Community-Based, Cooperative Extension Program

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Sellers, Debra M.; Markham, Melinda Stafford

    2012-01-01

    The Fashion an Easier Lifestyle with Assistive Technology (FELAT) curriculum was developed as a needs-based, community educational program provided through a state Cooperative Extension Service. The overall goal for participants was to raise awareness of assistive technology. Program evaluation included a postassessment and subsequent interview to…

  9. A Study of North Carolina Negro Homemakers. Extension Evaluation Study No. 4.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Brown, Minnie Miller; And Others

    This statewide study of the home demonstration program in nine representative counties was designed to determine home economics extension program needs, to discover the degree of participation, and to locate people who might profit from the program. Personal interviews were conducted with 498 home demonstration club members and 572 nonmembers.…

  10. Strategic Partnerships that Strengthen Extension's Community-Based Entrepreneurship Programs: An Example from Maine

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bassano, Louis V.; McConnon, James C., Jr.

    2011-01-01

    This article explains how Extension can enhance and expand its nationwide community-based entrepreneurship programs by developing strategic partnerships with other organizations to create highly effective educational programs for rural entrepreneurs. The activities and impacts of the Down East Micro-Enterprise Network (DEMN), an alliance of three…

  11. 76 FR 43649 - Notice of Request for Extension of Approval of an Information Collection; Scrapie in Sheep and...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-07-21

    ...; Interstate Movement Restrictions and Indemnity Program AGENCY: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service... with regulations for the interstate movement of sheep and goats and an indemnity program to control the... Movement Restrictions and Indemnity Program. OMB Number: 0579-0101. Type of Request: Extension of approval...

  12. Wellness Works: A Collaborative Program for Youth and Adults in Rural Utah

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Shirley, Lindsey; Roark, Mark F.; Lewis, Lisa

    2012-01-01

    Utah State University Cooperative Extension programming, provided through the historic land-grant system, is one method used to meet the needs of residents located in rural communities. Residents in a Central Utah county need Cooperative Extension programs to address the health and wellness of their rural community. According to the Utah…

  13. Herd-Health Programs for Limited-Resource Farmers: Prevention versus Treatment

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Marshall, Renita W.

    2011-01-01

    In recognition of the changing influences on animal health, Extension professionals are charged with the responsibility of delivering educational programs to our limited resources farmers on the importance of herd health. Herd-health programs must be designed and implemented with the help of an Extension veterinarian to provide routine, planned…

  14. Evaluating a New and Aspiring County Extension Director Leadership Education Program: Determining Outcomes and Needed Improvements

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Jayaratne, K. S. U.; Owen, Mitchel; Jones, David

    2010-01-01

    This leadership education evaluation study explored the leadership development outcomes of potential county extension directors and the ways to improve the program. The leadership education program aimed to improve participants' leadership abilities in understanding self, building relationships and managing resources. The analysis of quantitative…

  15. An Examination of the Feasibility of Integrating Motivational Interviewing Techniques into FCS Cooperative Extension Programming

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Radunovich, Heidi Liss; Ellis, Sarah; Spangler, Taylor

    2017-01-01

    Demonstrating program impact through behavior change is critical for the continued success of Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) Cooperative Extension programming. However, the literature suggests that simply providing information to participants does not necessarily lead to behavior change. This study pilot tested the integration of Motivational…

  16. Applying Coaching Strategies to Support Youth- and Family-Focused Extension Programming

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Olson, Jonathan R.; Hawkey, Kyle R.; Smith, Burgess; Perkins, Daniel F.; Borden, Lynne M.

    2016-01-01

    In this article, we describe how a peer-coaching model has been applied to support community-based Extension programming through the Children, Youth, and Families at Risk (CYFAR) initiative. We describe the general approaches to coaching that have been used to help with CYFAR program implementation, evaluation, and sustainability efforts; we…

  17. University of Idaho's FCS Extension Educators Develop Leaders to Serve in Public Office

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hoffman, Katie; Cummins, Melissa; Hansen, Lyle; Petty, Barbara; Tifft, Kathee; Laumatia, Laura

    2013-01-01

    In order to meet clientele needs and strengthen family and consumer sciences (FCS) programming, University of Idaho Extension educators expanded their roles through the Horizons program--a community leadership program, funded by the Northwest Area Foundation, aimed at reducing poverty in small rural and reservation communities. This study measured…

  18. 5 CFR 362.203 - Appointment and extensions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... Section 362.203 Administrative Personnel OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT CIVIL SERVICE REGULATIONS PRESIDENTIAL MANAGEMENT FELLOWS PROGRAM Program Administration § 362.203 Appointment and extensions. (a... requirements (general leadership, managerial, or specialized experience, academic credentials, professional...

  19. MORPH-II, a software package for the analysis of scanning-electron-micrograph images for the assessment of the fractal dimension of exposed stone surfaces

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Mossotti, Victor G.; Eldeeb, A. Raouf

    2000-01-01

    Turcotte, 1997, and Barton and La Pointe, 1995, have identified many potential uses for the fractal dimension in physicochemical models of surface properties. The image-analysis program described in this report is an extension of the program set MORPH-I (Mossotti and others, 1998), which provided the fractal analysis of electron-microscope images of pore profiles (Mossotti and Eldeeb, 1992). MORPH-II, an integration of the modified kernel of the program MORPH-I with image calibration and editing facilities, was designed to measure the fractal dimension of the exposed surfaces of stone specimens as imaged in cross section in an electron microscope.

  20. The Haiti research-based model of international public health collaboration: the GHESKIO Centers.

    PubMed

    Pape, Jean W; Severe, Patrice D; Fitzgerald, Daniel W; Deschamps, Marie M; Joseph, Patrice; Riviere, Cynthia; Rouzier, Vanessa; Johnson, Warren D

    2014-01-01

    For 3 decades, GHESKIO (the Groupe Haitien d'Etude du Sarcome de Kaposi et des Infections Opportunistes), the Haitian Ministry of Health, and Weill Cornell have pursued a tripartite mission of service, training, and translational research. The initial focus was on AIDS and tuberculosis. The mission has expanded to include the local community and now provides maternal-child health, family planning, cancer prevention and treatment, immunizations (including human papillomavirus, cholera), and primary education through vocational and microcredit programs. Outcome measures include a reduction in HIV prevalence from 6.2% to the current 2.2%, extensive tuberculosis and cholera prevention and treatment programs, and national training programs for biomedical and community health workers.

  1. Effects of a Stretching Development and Maintenance Program on Hamstring Extensibility in Schoolchildren: A Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial

    PubMed Central

    Mayorga-Vega, Daniel; Merino-Marban, Rafael; Manzano-Lagunas, Jorge; Blanco, Humberto; Viciana, Jesús

    2016-01-01

    The main purpose of the present study was to examine the effects of a physical education-based stretching development and maintenance program on hamstring extensibility in schoolchildren. A sample of 150 schoolchildren aged 7-10 years old from a primary school participated in the present study (140 participants were finally included). The six classes balanced by grade were cluster randomly assigned to the experimental group 1 (n = 51), experimental group 2 (n = 51) or control group (n = 49) (i.e., a cluster randomized controlled trial design was used). During the physical education classes, the students from the experimental groups 1 and 2 performed a four-minute stretching program twice a week for nine weeks (first semester). Then, after a five-week period of detraining coinciding with the Christmas holidays, the students from the experimental groups 1 and 2 completed another stretching program twice a week for eleven weeks (second semester). The students from the experimental group 1 continued performing the stretching program for four minutes while those from the experimental group 2 completed a flexibility maintenance program for only one minute. The results of the two-way analysis of variance showed that the physical education-based stretching development program significantly improved the students’ hamstring extensibility (p < 0.001), as well as that these gains obtained remained after the stretching maintenance program (p < 0.001). Additionally, statistically significant differences between the two experimental groups were not found (p > 0.05). After a short-term stretching development program, a physical education-based stretching maintenance program of only one-minute sessions twice a week is effective in maintaining hamstring extensibility among schoolchildren. This knowledge could help and guide teachers to design programs that allow a feasible and effective development and maintenance of students’ flexibility in the physical education setting. Key points A physical education-based stretching maintenance program of only one-minute sessions twice a week is effective in maintaining hamstring extensibility among schoolchildren. A four-minute maintenance program shows similar effects that the one-minute maintenance program on hamstring extensibility among schoolchildren. Physical education teachers and other practitioners could carry out one-minute programs for a feasible and effective maintenance of students’ flexibility. PMID:26957928

  2. A feedback inclusive neuromuscular training program alters frontal plane kinematics.

    PubMed

    Greska, Eric K; Cortes, Nelson; Van Lunen, Bonnie L; Oñate, James A

    2012-06-01

    Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) neuromuscular training programs have demonstrated beneficial effects in reducing ACL injuries, yet further evaluation of their effects on biomechanical measures across a sports team season is required to elucidate the specific factors that are modifiable. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of a 10-week off-season neuromuscular training program on lower extremity kinematics. Twelve Division I female soccer players (age: 19.2 ± 0.8 years, height: 1.67 ± 0.1 m, weight: 60.2 ± 6.5 kg) performed unanticipated dynamic trials of a running stop-jump task pretraining and posttraining. Data collection was performed using an 8-camera Vicon system (Los Angeles, CA, USA) and 2 Bertec (Columbus, OH, USA) force plates. The 10-week training program consisted of resistance training 2 times per week and field training, consisting of plyometric, agility, and speed drills, 2 times per week. Repeated measures analyses of variance (ANOVAs) were used to assess the differences between pretraining and posttraining kinetics and kinematics of the hip, knee, and ankle at initial contact (IC), peak knee flexion (PKF), and peak stance. Repeated measures ANOVAs were also used to assess isometric strength differences pretraining and posttraining. The alpha level was set at 0.05 a priori. The training program demonstrated significant increases in left hip extension, left and right hip flexion, and right hip adduction isometric strength. At IC, knee abduction angle moved from an abducted to an adducted position (-1.48 ± 3.65° to 1.46 ± 3.86°, p = 0.007), and hip abduction angle increased (-6.05 ± 4.63° to -10.34 ± 6.83°, p = 0.007). Hip abduction angle at PKF increased (-2.23 ± 3.40° to 6.01 ± 3.82°, p = 0.002). The maximum knee extension moment achieved at peak stance increased from pretraining to posttraining (2.02 ± 0.32 to 2.38 ± 0.75 N·m·kg⁻¹, p = 0.027). The neuromuscular training program demonstrated a potential positive effect in altering mechanics that influence the risk of incurring an ACL injury.

  3. Making Earth Science Data Records for Use in Research Environments (MEaSUREs) Projects Data and Services at the GES DISC

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Vollmer, Bruce E.; Ostrenga, D.; Savtchenko, A.; Johnson, J.; Wei, J.; Teng, W.; Gerasimov, I.

    2011-01-01

    NASA's Earth Science Program is dedicated to advancing Earth remote sensing and pioneering the scientific use of satellite measurements to improve human understanding of our home planet. Through the MEaSUREs Program, NASA is continuing its commitment to expand understanding of the Earth system using consistent data records. Emphasis is on linking together multiple data sources to form coherent time-series, and facilitating the use of extensive data in the development of comprehensive Earth system models. A primary focus of the MEaSUREs Program is the creation of Earth System Data Records (ESDRs). An ESDR is defined as a unified and coherent set of observations of a given parameter of the Earth system, which is optimized to meet specific requirements for addressing science questions. These records are critical for understanding Earth System processes; for the assessment of variability, long-term trends, and change in the Earth System; and for providing input and validation means to modeling efforts. Seven MEaSUREs projects will be archived and distributed through services at the Goddard Earth Sciences Data and Information Services Center (GES DISC).

  4. B61 Mod 12 Life Extension Program Tailkit Assembly (B61 Mod 12 LEP TKA)

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2013-12-01

    Selected Acquisition Report (SAR) RCS: DD-A&T(Q&A)823-468 B61 Mod 12 Life Extension Program Tailkit Assembly ( B61 Mod 12 LEP TKA...REPORT TYPE 3. DATES COVERED 00-00-2013 to 00-00-2013 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE B61 Mod 12 Life Extension Program Tailkit Assembly ( B61 Mod 12 LEP...REPORT unclassified b. ABSTRACT unclassified c. THIS PAGE unclassified Standard Form 298 (Rev. 8-98) Prescribed by ANSI Std Z39-18 B61 Mod 12

  5. Evaluation Of Model Based Systems Engineering Processes For Integration Into Rapid Acquisition Programs

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2016-09-01

    Failure MTBCF Mean Time Between Critical Failure MIRV Multiple Independently-targetable Reentry Vehicle MK6LE MK6 Guidance System Life Extension...programs were the MK54 Lightweight Torpedo program, a Raytheon Radar program, and the Life Extension of the MK6 Guidance System (MK6LE) of the...activities throughout the later life -cycle phases. MBSE allowed the programs to manage the evolution of simulation capabilities, as well as to assess the

  6. Computer Programs (Turbomachinery)

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1978-01-01

    NASA computer programs are extensively used in design of industrial equipment. Available from the Computer Software Management and Information Center (COSMIC) at the University of Georgia, these programs are employed as analysis tools in design, test and development processes, providing savings in time and money. For example, two NASA computer programs are used daily in the design of turbomachinery by Delaval Turbine Division, Trenton, New Jersey. The company uses the NASA splint interpolation routine for analysis of turbine blade vibration and the performance of compressors and condensers. A second program, the NASA print plot routine, analyzes turbine rotor response and produces graphs for project reports. The photos show examples of Delaval test operations in which the computer programs play a part. In the large photo below, a 24-inch turbine blade is undergoing test; in the smaller photo, a steam turbine rotor is being prepared for stress measurements under actual operating conditions; the "spaghetti" is wiring for test instrumentation

  7. Changing recruitment outcomes: the 'why' and the 'how'.

    PubMed

    MacLean, Lisa; Pato, Michèle T

    2011-01-01

    Residency programs compete for applicants and commit extensive resources to the recruitment process. After failing to fill in the match for 5 years (1999-2004), this program decided to make changes in its recruitment process. The authors describe one program's experience in improving recruitment outcomes. The new training director surveyed other program directors, reviewed medical student feedback, and evaluated previous recruitment processes, developing and implementing a new plan. Tracked outcome measures included USMLE scores, COMLEX scores, match results, and American graduate ratios. After implementation of the new process in 2004-2005, the program has filled all six positions every year. Average median COMLEX 1 and 2 scores increased from 35.0 to 77.5 (p<0.012). The American graduate-to-International medical graduate ratio (AMG/IMG ratio) for the program changed from 7/16 in 1999 to 19/5 for Years 2006-2009. Changes in the recruitment process can favorably alter match outcomes.

  8. 15 CFR 291.1 - Program description.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE NIST EXTRAMURAL PROGRAMS MANUFACTURING EXTENSION... amended, NIST will provide financial assistance to integrate environmentally-related services and resources into the national manufacturing extension system. This assistance will be provided by NIST often...

  9. 15 CFR 291.1 - Program description.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE NIST EXTRAMURAL PROGRAMS MANUFACTURING EXTENSION... amended, NIST will provide financial assistance to integrate environmentally-related services and resources into the national manufacturing extension system. This assistance will be provided by NIST often...

  10. 15 CFR 291.1 - Program description.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE NIST EXTRAMURAL PROGRAMS MANUFACTURING EXTENSION... amended, NIST will provide financial assistance to integrate environmentally-related services and resources into the national manufacturing extension system. This assistance will be provided by NIST often...

  11. 15 CFR 291.1 - Program description.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE NIST EXTRAMURAL PROGRAMS MANUFACTURING EXTENSION... amended, NIST will provide financial assistance to integrate environmentally-related services and resources into the national manufacturing extension system. This assistance will be provided by NIST often...

  12. 15 CFR 291.1 - Program description.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE NIST EXTRAMURAL PROGRAMS MANUFACTURING EXTENSION... amended, NIST will provide financial assistance to integrate environmentally-related services and resources into the national manufacturing extension system. This assistance will be provided by NIST often...

  13. The New Dual-beam Spectropluviometer Concept

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Delahaye, J. Y.; Barthes, L.; Golé, P.; Lavergnat, J.; Vinson, J. P.

    A Dual Beam Spectropluviometer (DBS) measuring the equivalent diameter D, the vertical velocity V and the time T of arrival of particles is presented. Its main advan- tage over previous optical disdrometers is the extensive measurement range of atmo- spheric precipitations near ground. In particular, 0.15 mm diameter particles can be observed in quiet laboratory conditions and 0.2 mm is the smallest diameter observed in the outdoor turbulent air velocity field. The means for obtaining such results are (i) two uniform beams of rectangular cross-section 2 mm in height, 40 mm in width and 250 mm in length, with a 2 mm vertical gap, (ii) a dual 16-bit analog to digital converter, (iii) a dedicated program for extracting the 3 parameters in real time by computing the signal slopes and determining the correlation between both channels, (iii) various means for reducing splashing and vibration. Laboratory tests and typical rain measurements are shown. The DBS is particularly suited for extensive atmospheric and radio propagation research applications where the smallest drops were not correctly estimated in the distributions because of the lack of appropriate measurement devices.

  14. Doctoral training in statistics, measurement, and methodology in psychology: replication and extension of Aiken, West, Sechrest, and Reno's (1990) survey of PhD programs in North America.

    PubMed

    Aiken, Leona S; West, Stephen G; Millsap, Roger E

    2008-01-01

    In a survey of all PhD programs in psychology in the United States and Canada, the authors documented the quantitative methodology curriculum (statistics, measurement, and research design) to examine the extent to which innovations in quantitative methodology have diffused into the training of PhDs in psychology. In all, 201 psychology PhD programs (86%) participated. This survey replicated and extended a previous survey (L. S. Aiken, S. G. West, L. B. Sechrest, & R. R. Reno, 1990), permitting examination of curriculum development. Most training supported laboratory and not field research. The median of 1.6 years of training in statistics and measurement was mainly devoted to the modally 1-year introductory statistics course, leaving little room for advanced study. Curricular enhancements were noted in statistics and to a minor degree in measurement. Additional coverage of both fundamental and innovative quantitative methodology is needed. The research design curriculum has largely stagnated, a cause for great concern. Elite programs showed no overall advantage in quantitative training. Forces that support curricular innovation are characterized. Human capital challenges to quantitative training, including recruiting and supporting young quantitative faculty, are discussed. Steps must be taken to bring innovations in quantitative methodology into the curriculum of PhD programs in psychology. PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2008 APA, all rights reserved.

  15. Local Food Systems Course for Extension Educators in North Carolina: Summary of an Innovative Program

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bloom, J. Dara; Lelekacs, Joanna Massey; Dunning, Rebecca; Piner, Abbey; Brinkmeyer, Emma

    2017-01-01

    Interest in local foods began in the early 2000s and has grown substantially over the past decade and a half. Although Extension is addressing local food systems in many states, training and materials in this program area are nascent. To address this circumstance, we developed a graduate course on local food systems for Extension educators.…

  16. Proposed Extension of the Library Services and Construction Act. Hearing before the Subcommittee on Select Education of the Committee on Education and Labor.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Congress of the U.S., Washington, DC. House Committee on Education and Labor.

    The text of oversight hearings on proposals to extend the Library Services and Construction Act (LSCA) includes presentations on the operation of programs authorized under the act. The measure, initially passed in 1964, has provided library services for those without access to them; these included the handicapped, hospitalized, disadvantaged…

  17. Aircraft interior noise prediction using a structural-acoustic analogy in NASTRAN modal synthesis

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Grosveld, Ferdinand W.; Sullivan, Brenda M.; Marulo, Francesco

    1988-01-01

    The noise induced inside a cylindrical fuselage model by shaker excitation is investigated theoretically and experimentally. The NASTRAN modal-synthesis program is used in the theoretical analysis, and the predictions are compared with experimental measurements in extensive graphs. Good general agreement is obtained, but the need for further refinements to account for acoustic-cavity damping and structural-acoustic interaction is indicated.

  18. Techniques and Measurements. Seychelles Integrated Science. [Teacher and Pupil Booklets]. Unit 1.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Brophy, M.; Fryars, M.

    Seychelles Integrated Science (SIS), a 3-year laboratory-based science program for students (ages 11-15) in upper primary grades 7, 8, and 9, was developed from an extensive evaluation and modification of previous P7-P9 materials. This P7 SIS unit is designed to: (1) introduce students to and familiarize them with working in the school laboratory;…

  19. Cooperative Extension as a Framework for Health Extension: The Michigan State University Model

    PubMed Central

    Dwyer, Jeffrey W.; Contreras, Dawn; Tiret, Holly; Newkirk, Cathy; Carter, Erin; Cronk, Linda

    2017-01-01

    Problem The Affordable Care Act charged the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality to create the Primary Care Extension Program, but did not fund this effort. The idea to work through health extension agents to support health care delivery systems was based on the nationally known Cooperative Extension System (CES). Instead of creating new infrastructure in health care, the CES is an ideal vehicle for increasing health-related research and primary care delivery. Approach The CES, a long-standing component of the land-grant university system, features a sustained infrastructure for providing education to communities. The Michigan State University (MSU) Model of Health Extension offers another means of developing a National Primary Care Extension Program that is replicable in part because of the presence of the CES throughout the United States. A partnership between the MSU College of Human Medicine and MSU Extension formed in 2014, emphasizing the promotion and support of human health research. The MSU Model of Health Extension includes the following strategies: building partnerships, preparing MSU Extension educators for participation in research, increasing primary care patient referrals and enrollment in health programs, and exploring innovative funding. Outcomes Since the formation of the MSU Model of Health Extension, researchers and extension professionals have made 200+ connections, and grants have afforded savings in salary costs. Next Steps The MSU College of Human Medicine and MSU Extension partnership can serve as a model to promote health partnerships nationwide between CES services within land-grant universities and academic health centers or community-based medical schools. PMID:28353501

  20. Remote Attitude Measurement Sensor (RAMS)

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Davis, H. W.

    1989-01-01

    Remote attitude measurement sensor (RAMS) offers a low-cost, low-risk, proven design concept that is based on mature, demonstrated space sensor technology. The electronic design concepts and interpolation algorithms were tested and proven in space hardware like th Retroreflector Field Tracker and various star trackers. The RAMS concept is versatile and has broad applicability to both ground testing and spacecraft needs. It is ideal for use as a precision laboratory sensor for structural dynamics testing. It requires very little set-up or preparation time and the output data is immediately usable without integration or extensive analysis efforts. For on-orbit use, RAMS rivals any other type of dynamic structural sensor (accelerometer, lidar, photogrammetric techniques, etc.) for overall performance, reliability, suitability, and cost. Widespread acceptance and extensive usage of RAMS will occur only after some interested agency, such as OAST, adopts the RAMS concept and provides the funding support necessary for further development and implementation of RAMS for a specific program.

  1. Stator hub treatment study

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Wisler, D. C.; Hilvers, D. E.

    1974-01-01

    The results of an experimental research program to investigate the potential of improving compressor stall margin by the application of hub treatment are presented. Extensive tuft probing showed that the two-stage, 0.5 radius ratio compressor selected for the test was indeed hub critical. Circumferential groove and baffled wide blade angle slot hub treatments under the stators were tested. Performance measurements were made with total and static pressure probes, wall static pressure taps, flow angle measuring instrumentation and hot film anemometers. Stator hub treatment was not found to be effective in improving compressor stall margin by delaying the point of onset of rotating stall or in modifying compressor performance for any of the configurations tested. Extensive regions of separated flow were observed on the suction surface of the stators near the hub. However, the treatment did not delay the point where flow separation in the stator hub region becomes apparent.

  2. Bringing the DuPont Profitability Model to Extension

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Roucan-Kane, Maud; Wolfskill, L. A.; Boehlje, Michael D.; Gray, Allan W.

    2013-01-01

    This article discusses a financial training program used by Deere and Company for almost 10 years. The objective is to describe the program and to discuss a pre-test/post-test methodology to test the effectiveness of a program for possible duplication by Extension. Results show that participants significantly improved from the pre-test to the…

  3. 41 CFR 300-90.8 - What must we do to apply for a test program extension?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 4 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false What must we do to apply for a test program extension? 300-90.8 Section 300-90.8 Public Contracts and Property Management Federal Travel Regulation System GENERAL AGENCY REQUIREMENTS 90-TELEWORK TRAVEL EXPENSES TEST PROGRAMS...

  4. Demonstrating Impact through Replicable Analysis: Implications of an Evaluation of Arkansas's Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Phelps, Josh; Brite-Lane, Allison; Crook, Tina; Hakkak, Reza; Fuller, Serena

    2017-01-01

    The evaluation described in this article focused on the effectiveness of Arkansas's Extension-based Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) but demonstrates an analytic approach that may be useful across Extension programs. We analyzed data from 1,810 Arkansas EFNEP participants' entry and exit Behavior Checklists to assess…

  5. Knowledge Transfer: A Case Study of a Community Nutrition Education Program at a Land-Grant University

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hurtado, Ghaffar Ali

    2014-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to investigate the process of knowledge transfer. The setting is a health and nutrition educational program at University of Minnesota Extension. The main research question was how is Knowledge Transfer being implemented in Extension, specifically Educational Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program? A case study,…

  6. Using the Logic Model to Plan Extension and Outreach Program Development and Scholarship

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Corbin, Marilyn; Kiernan, Nancy Ellen; Koble, Margaret A.; Watson, Jack; Jackson, Daney

    2004-01-01

    In searching for a process to help program teams of campus-based faculty and field-based educators develop five-year and annual statewide program plans, cooperative extension administrators and specialists in Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences discovered that the use of the logic model process can influence the successful design of…

  7. Measurement fidelity of heart rate variability signal processing: The devil is in the details

    PubMed Central

    Jarrin, Denise C.; McGrath, Jennifer J.; Giovanniello, Sabrina; Poirier, Paul; Lambert, Marie

    2017-01-01

    Heart rate variability (HRV) is a particularly valuable quantitative marker of the flexibility and balance of the autonomic nervous system. Significant advances in software programs to automatically derive HRV have led to its extensive use in psychophysiological research. However, there is a lack of systematic comparisons across software programs used to derive HRV indices. Further, researchers report meager details on important signal processing decisions making synthesis across studies challenging. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the measurement fidelity of time- and frequency-domain HRV indices derived from three predominant signal processing software programs commonly used in clinical and research settings. Triplicate ECG recordings were derived from 20 participants using identical data acquisition hardware. Among the time-domain indices, there was strong to excellent correspondence (ICCavg =0.93) for SDNN, SDANN, SDNNi, rMSSD, and pNN50. The frequency-domain indices yielded excellent correspondence (ICCavg =0.91) for LF, HF, and LF/HF ratio, except for VLF which exhibited poor correspondence (ICCavg =0.19). Stringent user-decisions and technical specifications for nuanced HRV processing details are essential to ensure measurement fidelity across signal processing software programs. PMID:22820268

  8. Measuring and explaining multi-directional inefficiency in the Malaysian dairy industry.

    PubMed

    Mohd Suhaimi, Nurul Aisyah Binti; de Mey, Yann; Oude Lansink, Alfons

    2017-01-01

    The purpose of this paper is to measure the technical inefficiency of dairy farms and subsequently investigate the factors affecting technical inefficiency in the Malaysian dairy industry. This study uses multi-directional efficiency analysis to measure the technical inefficiency scores on a sample of 200 farm observations and single-bootstrap truncated regression model to define factors affecting technical inefficiency. Managerial and program inefficiency scores are presented for intensive and semi-intensive production systems. The results reveal marked differences in the inefficiency scores across inputs and between production systems. Intensive systems generally have lowest managerial and program inefficiency scores in the Malaysian dairy farming sector. Policy makers could use this information to advise dairy farmers to convert their farming system to the intensive system. The results suggest that the Malaysian Government should redefine its policy for providing farm finance and should target young farmers when designing training and extension programs in order to improve the performance of the dairy sector. The existing literature on Southeast Asian dairy farming has neither focused on investigating input-specific efficiency nor on comparing managerial and program efficiency. This paper aims to fill this gap.

  9. B61 Mod 12 Life Extension Program Tailkit Assembly (B61 Mod 12 LEP TKA)

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2015-12-01

    Selected Acquisition Report ( SAR ) RCS: DD-A&T(Q&A)823-468 B61 Mod 12 Life Extension Program Tailkit Assembly (B61 Mod 12 LEP TKA) As of FY 2017... SAR March 23, 2016 10:38:20 UNCLASSIFIED 2 Table of Contents Common Acronyms and Abbreviations for MDAP Programs 3 Program Information...Unit Cost B61 Mod 12 LEP TKA December 2015 SAR March 23, 2016 10:38:20 UNCLASSIFIED 3 PB - President’s Budget PE - Program Element PEO - Program

  10. Development of sensors for ceramic components in advanced propulsion systems: Survey and evaluation of measurement techniques for temperature, strain and heat flux for ceramic components in advanced propulsion systems

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Atkinson, W. H.; Cyr, M. A.; Strange, R. R.

    1988-01-01

    The report presents the final results of Tasks 1 and 2, Development of Sensors for Ceramic Components in Advanced Propulsion Systems (NASA program NAS3-25141). During Task 1, an extensive survey was conducted of sensor concepts which have the potential for measuring surface temperature, strain and heat flux on ceramic components for advanced propulsion systems. Each sensor concept was analyzed and evaluated under Task 2; sensor concepts were then recommended for further development. For temperature measurement, both pyrometry and thermographic phosphors are recommended for measurements up to and beyond the melting point of ceramic materials. For lower temperature test programs, the thin-film techniques offer advantages in the installation of temperature sensors. Optical strain measurement techniques are recommended because they offer the possibility of being useful at very high temperature levels. Techniques for the measurement of heat flux are recommended for development based on both a surface mounted sensor and the measurement of the temperature differential across a portion of a ceramic component or metallic substrate.

  11. A review of selected inorganic surface water quality-monitoring practices: are we really measuring what we think, and if so, are we doing it right?

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Horowitz, Arthur J.

    2013-01-01

    Successful environmental/water quality-monitoring programs usually require a balance between analytical capabilities, the collection and preservation of representative samples, and available financial/personnel resources. Due to current economic conditions, monitoring programs are under increasing pressure to do more with less. Hence, a review of current sampling and analytical methodologies, and some of the underlying assumptions that form the bases for these programs seems appropriate, to see if they are achieving their intended objectives within acceptable error limits and/or measurement uncertainty, in a cost-effective manner. That evaluation appears to indicate that several common sampling/processing/analytical procedures (e.g., dip (point) samples/measurements, nitrogen determinations, total recoverable analytical procedures) are generating biased or nonrepresentative data, and that some of the underlying assumptions relative to current programs, such as calendar-based sampling and stationarity are no longer defensible. The extensive use of statistical models as well as surrogates (e.g., turbidity) also needs to be re-examined because the hydrologic interrelationships that support their use tend to be dynamic rather than static. As a result, a number of monitoring programs may need redesigning, some sampling and analytical procedures may need to be updated, and model/surrogate interrelationships may require recalibration.

  12. Testing the electroweak phase transition in scalar extension models at lepton colliders

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cao, Qing-Hong; Huang, Fa-Peng; Xie, Ke-Pan; Zhang, Xinmin

    2018-01-01

    We study the electroweak phase transition in three scalar extension models beyond the Standard Model. Assuming new scalars are decoupled at some heavy scale, we use the covariant derivative expansion method to derive all of the dimension-6 effective operators, whose coefficients are highly correlated in a specific model. We provide bounds to the complete set of dimension-6 operators by including the electroweak precision test and recent Higgs measurements. We find that the parameter space of strong first-order phase transitions (induced by the | H{| }6 operator) can be probed extensively in Zh production at future electron-positron colliders. QHC and KPX are supported in part by the National Science Foundation of China(11175069, 11275009, 11422545), XZ and FPH are supported by the NSFC (11121092, 11033005, 11375202) and also by the CAS Pilot-B program. FPH is also supported by the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation (2016M590133, 2017T100108)

  13. Winter navigation on the Great Lakes : a review of environmental studies

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1995-05-01

    In 1970, Congress authorized a three-part Great Lakes-St.Lawrence Seaway Navigation Season Extension Program. It authorized a winter navigation demonstration program, a detailed survey study of season extension feasibility and a study of insurance ra...

  14. An Arbitrary First Order Theory Can Be Represented by a Program: A Theorem

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hosheleva, Olga

    1997-01-01

    How can we represent knowledge inside a computer? For formalized knowledge, classical logic seems to be the most adequate tool. Classical logic is behind all formalisms of classical mathematics, and behind many formalisms used in Artificial Intelligence. There is only one serious problem with classical logic: due to the famous Godel's theorem, classical logic is algorithmically undecidable; as a result, when the knowledge is represented in the form of logical statements, it is very difficult to check whether, based on this statement, a given query is true or not. To make knowledge representations more algorithmic, a special field of logic programming was invented. An important portion of logic programming is algorithmically decidable. To cover knowledge that cannot be represented in this portion, several extensions of the decidable fragments have been proposed. In the spirit of logic programming, these extensions are usually introduced in such a way that even if a general algorithm is not available, good heuristic methods exist. It is important to check whether the already proposed extensions are sufficient, or further extensions is necessary. In the present paper, we show that one particular extension, namely, logic programming with classical negation, introduced by M. Gelfond and V. Lifschitz, can represent (in some reasonable sense) an arbitrary first order logical theory.

  15. Special Section: Extension in a Global Context.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rosson, C. Parr, III; And Others

    1991-01-01

    "International Programming Issues for Extension Education" (Rosson, Sanders) describes a survey of extension personnel identifying global competition and agriculture as a key issue. "Expanding Our Horizons Internationally" (Richardson, Woods) discusses North Carolina Extension's staff development on global issues. In…

  16. 77 FR 24992 - OSHA Strategic Partnership Program for Worker Safety and Health (OSPP); Extension of the Office...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-04-26

    ... Strategic Partnership Program for Worker Safety and Health (OSPP); Extension of the Office of Management and... specified in the OSHAs Strategic Partnership Program for Worker Safety and Health (OSPP). DATES: Comments... accepted during the Department of Labor's and Docket Office's normal business hours, 8:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m...

  17. Adapting Extension Food Safety Programming for Vegetable Growers to Accommodate Differences in Ethnicity, Farming Scale, and Other Individual Factors

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kline, Terence R.; Kneen, Harold; Barrett, Eric; Kleinschmidt, Andy; Doohan, Doug

    2012-01-01

    Differences in vegetable production methods utilized by American growers create distinct challenges for Extension personnel providing food safety training to producer groups. A program employing computers and projectors will not be accepted by an Amish group that does not accept modern technology. We have developed an outreach program that covers…

  18. Impact of "Grassroots on Work" (GROW) Extension Program to the Bachelor of Arts in Political Science Students' Sense of Civic Responsibility

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Paga, Mark Leo Huit

    2015-01-01

    Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the medium term effect of service-learning program or "Grassroots on Work" extension program to civic responsibility of AB Political Science students. Methodology: This study employed an impact evaluation research design and both qualitative and quantitative. The data on goals and…

  19. Linking Roles of Education Assistants in the Missouri Small Farm Family Program at the University Resource Subsystem Client Social System Interface.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lionberger, Herbert F.; Wong, Tso Sang

    Growing concern that the Cooperative Extension Service was failing to adequately reach small farmers with education materials through regular extension channels led to the implementation of Missouri's Small Farm Family Program. In this program, education assistants, many of whom are small farmers themselves, link the educational resources of the…

  20. Exploring the Level of Evidence of Impact Collected through Program Evaluation by Cooperative Extension as Published in the "Journal of Extension"

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Workman, Jeffrey Dale

    2010-01-01

    Documenting evidence of impact demonstrates that organizations and programs are making a difference and/or accomplishing something positive. The results of a program must ultimately change people's attitudes or behavior, or benefit society in other ways (Diem, 1997). As competition increases and the availability of financial resources decreases,…

  1. A Comparison of Agricultural Extension in Five States.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rogers, Everett M.

    The nature of the Cooperative Extension Service in agriculture was examined to identify aspects that could be applied to the design of an educational extension service. To learn about the organization, programs, and priorities of Cooperative Extension, employees of the state extension services in California, Colorado, New Mexico, New York, and…

  2. The effect of non-weight bearing group-exercising on females with non-specific chronic low back pain: a randomized single blind controlled pilot study.

    PubMed

    Masharawi, Youssef; Nadaf, Nedal

    2013-01-01

    The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of active non-weight-bearing (NWB) group exercising on women with non specific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP). Forty females with NSCLBP were assigned in a randomized control longitudinal single blinded pilot study. 20 of them were assigned to a NWB bi-weekly group exercise class and 20 females were included in the control group. The exercises involved the entire lumbo-pelvic spine aimed at improving lumbar mobility/flexibility and stability. Pain intensity (VAS), back specific disability (Rolland Morris questionnaire-RMQ), and lumbar flexion and extension ranges of motion measurements were taken prior to intervention (t(0)), immediately following 4 weeks of intervention (t(1)) and 8 weeks later (t(fu)). Reliability trials were conducted on 10 females. Non-parametric tests were used for statistical significance (p < 0.05). The following significant changes in outcome measures were indicated at t(1) compared with t(0) and control group (p < 0.001): an increase in lumbar flexion and extension (mean difference = 9.26◦ (+54%) for flexion and 5.95◦ for extension(+98%)); reduction in VAS score (mean difference = 2.32 (+58%)) and RMQ score (mean difference = 4.9 (−34%)). All changes remained significant at t(fu). At t(0), lumbar flexion was correlated with extension (r = 0.547) and VAS (r = −0.581),whereas the RMQ score correlated with VAS score (r = 0.599) and negatively with lumbar extension (r = −0.665). At t(1),lumbar flexion correlated with extension (r = 0.664) and negatively with RMQ score (r = −0.54). At t(fu), changes in VAS score were negatively correlated with changes in lumbar flexion (r = −0.522), while changes in lumbar flexion correlated with extension (r = 0.58). A functional program of NWB group exercising improves functional, painful status, lumbar flexion and extension ranges of motion in women suffering from NSCLBP.

  3. Gene-expression programming for flip-bucket spillway scour.

    PubMed

    Guven, Aytac; Azamathulla, H Md

    2012-01-01

    During the last two decades, researchers have noticed that the use of soft computing techniques as an alternative to conventional statistical methods based on controlled laboratory or field data, gave significantly better results. Gene-expression programming (GEP), which is an extension to genetic programming (GP), has nowadays attracted the attention of researchers in prediction of hydraulic data. This study presents GEP as an alternative tool in the prediction of scour downstream of a flip-bucket spillway. Actual field measurements were used to develop GEP models. The proposed GEP models are compared with the earlier conventional GP results of others (Azamathulla et al. 2008b; RMSE = 2.347, δ = 0.377, R = 0.842) and those of commonly used regression-based formulae. The predictions of GEP models were observed to be in strictly good agreement with measured ones, and quite a bit better than conventional GP and the regression-based formulae. The results are tabulated in terms of statistical error measures (GEP1; RMSE = 1.596, δ = 0.109, R = 0.917) and illustrated via scatter plots.

  4. The Canadian effort to prevent and control hypertension: can other countries adopt Canadian strategies?

    PubMed

    Campbell, Norm R C; Sheldon, Tobe

    2010-07-01

    To indicate the key elements of current Canadian programs to treat and control hypertension. In the early 1990s Canada had a hypertension treatment and control rate of 13%. A Canadian strategy to prevent and control hypertension was developed and a coalition of national organizations and volunteers formed to develop increasingly extensive programs. The Canadian effort was largely based on annually updated hypertension management recommendations, an integrated and extensive hypertension knowledge translation program and an increasingly comprehensive outcomes assessment program. After the start of the annual process in 1999, there were very large increases in diagnosis and hypertension treatment coupled with dropping rates of cardiovascular disease. More recent initiatives include an extensive education program for the public and people with hypertension, a program to reduce dietary salt and a funded leadership position. The treatment and control rate increased to 66% when last assessed (2007-2009). The study describes important aspects of the Canadian hypertension management programs to aid those wishing to develop similar programs. Many of the programs could be fully or partially implemented by other countries.

  5. Effective Regional Community Development

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Nesbitt, Rebecca; Merkowitz, Rose Fisher

    2014-01-01

    Times are changing, and so are Extension programs. These changes affect every aspect of the educational effort, including program development, project funding, educational delivery, partnership building, marketing, sharing impacts, and revenue generation. This article is not about how Extension is restructuring to adapt to changes; instead, it…

  6. 78 FR 18619 - Extension of Agency Information Collection Activity Under OMB Review: National Explosives...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-03-27

    ... DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Transportation Security Administration Extension of Agency Information Collection Activity Under OMB Review: National Explosives Detection Canine Team Program (NEDCTP... Explosives Detection Canine Team Program (NEDCTP) canine handlers. Abstract: The FAMS/CTES Explosives...

  7. Static tests of excess ground attenuation at Wallops Flight Center

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sutherland, L. C.; Brown, R.

    1981-06-01

    An extensive experimental measurement program which evaluated the attenuation of sound for close to horizontal propagation over the ground was designed to replicate, under static conditions, results of the flight measurements carried out earlier by NASA at the same site (Wallops Flight Center). The program consisted of a total of 41 measurement runs of attenuation, in excess of spreading and air absorption losses, for one third octave bands over a frequency range of 50 to 4000 Hz. Each run consisted of measurements at 10 locations up to 675 m, from a source located at nominal elevations of 2.5, or 10 m over either a grassy surface or an adjacent asphalt concrete runway surface. The tests provided a total of over 8100 measurements of attenuation under conditions of low wind speed averaging about 1 m/s and, for most of the tests, a slightly positive temperature gradient, averaging about 0.3 C/m from 1.2 to 7 m. The results of the measurements are expected to provide useful experimental background for the further development of prediction models of near grazing incidence sound propagation losses.

  8. Static tests of excess ground attenuation at Wallops Flight Center

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Sutherland, L. C.; Brown, R.

    1981-01-01

    An extensive experimental measurement program which evaluated the attenuation of sound for close to horizontal propagation over the ground was designed to replicate, under static conditions, results of the flight measurements carried out earlier by NASA at the same site (Wallops Flight Center). The program consisted of a total of 41 measurement runs of attenuation, in excess of spreading and air absorption losses, for one third octave bands over a frequency range of 50 to 4000 Hz. Each run consisted of measurements at 10 locations up to 675 m, from a source located at nominal elevations of 2.5, or 10 m over either a grassy surface or an adjacent asphalt concrete runway surface. The tests provided a total of over 8100 measurements of attenuation under conditions of low wind speed averaging about 1 m/s and, for most of the tests, a slightly positive temperature gradient, averaging about 0.3 C/m from 1.2 to 7 m. The results of the measurements are expected to provide useful experimental background for the further development of prediction models of near grazing incidence sound propagation losses.

  9. Recommended Experimental Procedures for Evaluation of Abrupt Wing Stall Characteristics

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Capone, F. J.; Hall, R. M.; Owens, D. B.; Lamar, J. E.; McMillin, S. N.

    2003-01-01

    This paper presents a review of the experimental program under the Abrupt Wing Stall (AWS) Program. Candidate figures of merit from conventional static tunnel tests are summarized and correlated with data obtained in unique free-to-roll tests. Where possible, free-to-roll results are also correlated with flight data. Based on extensive studies of static experimental figures of merit in the Abrupt Wing Stall Program for four different aircraft configurations, no one specific figure of merit consistently flagged a warning of potential lateral activity when actual activity was seen to occur in the free-to-roll experiments. However, these studies pointed out the importance of measuring and recording the root mean square signals of the force balance.

  10. Development tests for the 2.5 megawatt Mod-2 wind turbine generator

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Andrews, J. S.; Baskin, J. M.

    1982-01-01

    The 2.5 megawatt MOD-2 wind turbine generator test program is discussed. The development of the 2.5 megawatt MOD-2 wind turbine generator included an extensive program of testing which encompassed verification of analytical procedures, component development, and integrated system verification. The test program was to assure achievement of the thirty year design operational life of the wind turbine system as well as to minimize costly design modifications which would otherwise have been required during on site system testing. Computer codes were modified, fatigue life of structure and dynamic components were verified, mechanical and electrical component and subsystems were functionally checked and modified where necessary to meet system specifications, and measured dynamic responses of coupled systems confirmed analytical predictions.

  11. Coupling field and laboratory measurements to estimate the emission factors of identified and unidentified trace gases for prescribed fires

    Treesearch

    R. J. Yokelson; I. R. Burling; J. B. Gilman; C. Warneke; C. E. Stockwell; J. de Gouw; S. K. Akagi; S. P. Urbanski; P. Veres; J. M. Roberts; W. C. Kuster; J. Reardon; D. W. T. Griffith; T. J. Johnson; S. Hosseini; J. W. Miller; D. R. Cocker; H. Jung; D. R. Weise

    2013-01-01

    An extensive program of experiments focused on biomass burning emissions began with a laboratory phase in which vegetative fuels commonly consumed in prescribed fires were collected in the southeastern and southwestern US and burned in a series of 71 fires at the US Forest Service Fire Sciences Laboratory in Missoula, Montana. The particulate matter (PM2.5) emissions...

  12. Coupling field and laboratory measurements to estimate the emission factors of identified and unidentified trace gases for prescribed fires [Discussions

    Treesearch

    R. J. Yokelson; I. R. Burling; J. B. Gilman; C. Warneke; C. E. Stockwell; J. de Gouw; S. K. Akagi; S. P. Urbanski; P. Veres; J. M. Roberts; W. C. Kuster; J. Reardon; D. W. T. Griffith; T. J. Johnson; S. Hosseini; J. W. Miller; D. R. Cocker III; H. Jung; D. R. Weise

    2012-01-01

    An extensive program of experiments focused on biomass burning emissions began with a laboratory phase in which vegetative fuels commonly consumed in prescribed fires were collected in the southeastern and southwestern US and burned in a series 5 of 71 fires at the US Forest Service Fire Sciences Laboratory in Missoula, Montana. The particulate matter (PM2.5) emissions...

  13. Involvement and Programming, the Keys to Making the Best Better Through Longer Participation. Extension Rural Sociology, Occasional Paper #1.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Scales, Meredith

    The purpose of the 4-H membership study conducted in Garrard County, Kentucky, was to determine why a large percentage of individuals discontinue 4-H between their 8th and 9th year of school. Thirty-four individuals completed questionnaires designed to measure the extent of their participation when they were 4-H members and to learn the reasons…

  14. Lake Erie Wastewater Management Study.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1983-06-01

    Lake Erie water quality problem which It has been recognized for many years, dating back this program focused on may be succinctly described Ito...mechanisms fo’ detachment and less. As will be discussed , the costs of achieving fur- transport of sediment and phosphorus to the lake. Fur- ther...WETLANDS FOREST MIXED URBAN OTHER WATER TRANSPORTATION I UTILITIES MISSING are extensively grown in the Lake Erie Basin, especial- measurement by U.S

  15. ePortfolios, Badges, and the Whole Digital Self: How Evidence-Based Learning Pedagogies and Technologies Can Support Integrative Learning and Identity Development

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kehoe, Ashley; Goudzwaard, Michael

    2015-01-01

    Extensive research on student development and learning theory shows that the value of a college experience can be challenging to measure because its impact is not strictly academic, but holistic (e.g., Evans, Forney, & Guido-DiBrito, 1998). ePortfolio programs have been successfully implemented at many campuses as 1 way for students to…

  16. Shuttle on-orbit contamination and environmental effects

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Leger, L. J.; Jacobs, S.; Ehlers, H. K. F.; Miller, E.

    1985-01-01

    Ensuring the compatibility of the space shuttle system with payloads and payload measurements is discussed. An extensive set of quantitative requirements and goals was developed and implemented by the space shuttle program management. The performance of the Shuttle system as measured by these requirements and goals was assessed partly through the use of the induced environment contamination monitor on Shuttle flights 2, 3, and 4. Contamination levels are low and generally within the requirements and goals established. Additional data from near-term payloads and already planned contamination measurements will complete the environment definition and allow for the development of contamination avoidance procedures as necessary for any payload.

  17. The Politics of Extension Water Programming: Determining if Affiliation Impacts Participation

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Owens, Courtney T.; Lamm, Alexa J.

    2017-01-01

    Research has found levels of engagement in environmental behaviors and participation in Extension programming around environmental issues are directly associated with political affiliation. Democrat and Independent parties encourage members to vote for stricter environmental regulations, such as water conservation efforts, while Republicans…

  18. Money 2000: A Model Extension Program.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Porter, Nancy M.; Christenbury, Joyce H.

    1999-01-01

    Money 2000 is a South Carolina program that educates participants in personal savings and debt reduction. It is marketed through state-local government agency collaboration, promotional items, and extensive media coverage. It targets a diversified audience, including youth, rural farm families, and families with limited resources. (SK)

  19. 7 CFR 8.1 - Policy.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... Secretary of Agriculture 4-H CLUB NAME AND EMBLEM § 8.1 Policy. The Cooperative Extension Service, of which the 4-H Club program is a part, invites and appreciates the cooperation of all organizations, agencies... Cooperative Extension Service as conducted through the 4-H Club program. ...

  20. 7 CFR 8.1 - Policy.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... Secretary of Agriculture 4-H CLUB NAME AND EMBLEM § 8.1 Policy. The Cooperative Extension Service, of which the 4-H Club program is a part, invites and appreciates the cooperation of all organizations, agencies... Cooperative Extension Service as conducted through the 4-H Club program. ...

  1. 7 CFR 8.1 - Policy.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... Secretary of Agriculture 4-H CLUB NAME AND EMBLEM § 8.1 Policy. The Cooperative Extension Service, of which the 4-H Club program is a part, invites and appreciates the cooperation of all organizations, agencies... Cooperative Extension Service as conducted through the 4-H Club program. ...

  2. 7 CFR 8.1 - Policy.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... Secretary of Agriculture 4-H CLUB NAME AND EMBLEM § 8.1 Policy. The Cooperative Extension Service, of which the 4-H Club program is a part, invites and appreciates the cooperation of all organizations, agencies... Cooperative Extension Service as conducted through the 4-H Club program. ...

  3. 7 CFR 8.1 - Policy.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... Secretary of Agriculture 4-H CLUB NAME AND EMBLEM § 8.1 Policy. The Cooperative Extension Service, of which the 4-H Club program is a part, invites and appreciates the cooperation of all organizations, agencies... Cooperative Extension Service as conducted through the 4-H Club program. ...

  4. 76 FR 52658 - State Program Requirements; Approval of Application for Program Revision to the National...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-08-23

    ... (ADEC) in four phases. Phases I-III have been transferred from the EPA to ADEC. In March 2011, ADEC made a submission for approval for a one year extension of the transfer of Phase IV of the APDES program... facilities not previously transferred in Phases I-III. The EPA approved the one year extension for Phase IV...

  5. A Model for Evaluating eXtension Communities of Practice

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kelsey, Kathleen D.; Stafne, Eric T.

    2012-01-01

    As Americans shift their work and leisure activities online, Extension seeks to remain viable by delivering programs through a website known as eXtension. eXtension is predicated on the voluntary labor of Extension specialists and educators who form Communities of Practice to create and deliver content through the website. Evaluation of eXtension…

  6. Turning an Extension Aide into an Extension Agent

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Seevers, Brenda; Dormody, Thomas J.

    2010-01-01

    For any organization to remain sustainable, a renewable source of faculty and staff needs to be available. The Extension Internship Program for Juniors and Seniors in High School is a new tool for recruiting and developing new Extension agents. Students get "hands on" experience working in an Extension office and earn college credit…

  7. An acceptable role for computers in the aircraft design process

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Gregory, T. J.; Roberts, L.

    1980-01-01

    Some of the reasons why the computerization trend is not wholly accepted are explored for two typical cases: computer use in the technical specialties and computer use in aircraft synthesis. The factors that limit acceptance are traced in part, to the large resources needed to understand the details of computer programs, the inability to include measured data as input to many of the theoretical programs, and the presentation of final results without supporting intermediate answers. Other factors are due solely to technical issues such as limited detail in aircraft synthesis and major simplifying assumptions in the technical specialties. These factors and others can be influenced by the technical specialist and aircraft designer. Some of these factors may become less significant as the computerization process evolves, but some issues, such as understanding large integrated systems, may remain issues in the future. Suggestions for improved acceptance include publishing computer programs so that they may be reviewed, edited, and read. Other mechanisms include extensive modularization of programs and ways to include measured information as part of the input to theoretical approaches.

  8. ARDS User Manual

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Fleming, David P.

    2001-01-01

    Personal computers (PCs) are now used extensively for engineering analysis. their capability exceeds that of mainframe computers of only a few years ago. Programs originally written for mainframes have been ported to PCs to make their use easier. One of these programs is ARDS (Analysis of Rotor Dynamic Systems) which was developed at Arizona State University (ASU) by Nelson et al. to quickly and accurately analyze rotor steady state and transient response using the method of component mode synthesis. The original ARDS program was ported to the PC in 1995. Several extensions were made at ASU to increase the capability of mainframe ARDS. These extensions have also been incorporated into the PC version of ARDS. Each mainframe extension had its own user manual generally covering only that extension. Thus to exploit the full capability of ARDS required a large set of user manuals. Moreover, necessary changes and enhancements for PC ARDS were undocumented. The present document is intended to remedy those problems by combining all pertinent information needed for the use of PC ARDS into one volume.

  9. OpenARC: Extensible OpenACC Compiler Framework for Directive-Based Accelerator Programming Study

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

    Lee, Seyong; Vetter, Jeffrey S

    2014-01-01

    Directive-based, accelerator programming models such as OpenACC have arisen as an alternative solution to program emerging Scalable Heterogeneous Computing (SHC) platforms. However, the increased complexity in the SHC systems incurs several challenges in terms of portability and productivity. This paper presents an open-sourced OpenACC compiler, called OpenARC, which serves as an extensible research framework to address those issues in the directive-based accelerator programming. This paper explains important design strategies and key compiler transformation techniques needed to implement the reference OpenACC compiler. Moreover, this paper demonstrates the efficacy of OpenARC as a research framework for directive-based programming study, by proposing andmore » implementing OpenACC extensions in the OpenARC framework to 1) support hybrid programming of the unified memory and separate memory and 2) exploit architecture-specific features in an abstract manner. Porting thirteen standard OpenACC programs and three extended OpenACC programs to CUDA GPUs shows that OpenARC performs similarly to a commercial OpenACC compiler, while it serves as a high-level research framework.« less

  10. 75 FR 54759 - Competitive and Noncompetitive Non-Formula Federal Assistance Programs-General Award...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-09-09

    ... assistance programs: Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) as subpart G; the Organic Agriculture Research and Extension Initiative (OREI); and the Integrated Research, Education, and Extension Competitive... 4, 1965, Competitive, Special, and Facilities Research Grant Act, to authorize the Agriculture and...

  11. Creating and Implementing Diverse Development Strategies to Support Extension Centers and Programs

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Page, Christopher S.; Kern, Michael A.

    2018-01-01

    Declining government funding for higher education requires colleges and universities to seek alternative revenue streams, including through philanthropic fund-raising. Extension-based subject matter centers and other programs can benefit from the thoughtful supplementation of traditional revenue sources with individual, corporate, and private…

  12. Shopping for Courses on the Mall.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Gallagher, John C.

    1980-01-01

    Describes an extension program conducted by Suffolk County Community College, New York, at an area shopping mall. Discusses program offerings, including a series of general interest lectures, regular credit courses, and a set of noncredit minicourses for mall employees. Examines the public relations value of the extension efforts. (JP)

  13. 32 CFR 644.547 - Extensions of time.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... ESTATE HANDBOOK Disposal Sale Procedure § 644.547 Extensions of time. Granting an extension of time... development and administration of sales programs will help to avoid unjustified requests for extensions of time: (a) Establishment of realistic periods for completion of the sales contract. (b) Necessary and...

  14. 32 CFR 644.547 - Extensions of time.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... ESTATE HANDBOOK Disposal Sale Procedure § 644.547 Extensions of time. Granting an extension of time... development and administration of sales programs will help to avoid unjustified requests for extensions of time: (a) Establishment of realistic periods for completion of the sales contract. (b) Necessary and...

  15. Division File of Extension Research Materials; Additions During 1968.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Byrn, Darcie, Comp.

    In this annotated bibliography of acquisitions during 1968 appear 265 Extension studies on administrative organization and management; training and staff development; mobilizing participation in Extension work; local leadership; program content and planning procedures; general effectiveness and progress in Extension; teaching methods, techniques,…

  16. F/A-18 1/9th scale model tail buffet measurements

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Martin, C. A.; Glaister, M. K.; Maclaren, L. D.; Meyn, L. A.; Ross, J.

    1991-01-01

    Wind tunnel tests were carried out on a 1/9th scale model of the F/A-18 at high angles of attack to investigate the characteristics of tail buffet due to bursting of the wing leading edge extension (LEX) vortices. The tests were carried out at the Aeronautical Research Laboratory low-speed wind tunnel facility and form part of a collaborative activity with NASA Ames Research Center, organized by The Technical Cooperative Program (TTCP). Information from the program will be used in the planning of similar collaborative tests, to be carried out at NASA Ames, on a full-scale aircraft. The program covered the measurement of unsteady pressures and fin vibration for cases with and without the wing LEX fences fitted. Fourier transform methods were used to analyze the unsteady data, and information on the spatial and temporal content of the vortex burst pressure field was obtained. Flow visualization of the vortex behavior was carried out using smoke and a laser light sheet technique.

  17. Automated Data Abstraction of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Process Measures for Complete Episodes of Cardiac Arrest Resuscitation.

    PubMed

    Lin, Steve; Turgulov, Anuar; Taher, Ahmed; Buick, Jason E; Byers, Adam; Drennan, Ian R; Hu, Samantha; J Morrison, Laurie

    2016-10-01

    Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) process measures research and quality assurance has traditionally been limited to the first 5 minutes of resuscitation due to significant costs in time, resources, and personnel from manual data abstraction. CPR performance may change over time during prolonged resuscitations, which represents a significant knowledge gap. Moreover, currently available commercial software output of CPR process measures are difficult to analyze. The objective was to develop and validate a software program to help automate the abstraction and transfer of CPR process measures data from electronic defibrillators for complete episodes of cardiac arrest resuscitation. We developed a software program to facilitate and help automate CPR data abstraction and transfer from electronic defibrillators for entire resuscitation episodes. Using an intermediary Extensible Markup Language export file, the automated software transfers CPR process measures data (electrocardiogram [ECG] number, CPR start time, number of ventilations, number of chest compressions, compression rate per minute, compression depth per minute, compression fraction, and end-tidal CO 2 per minute). We performed an internal validation of the software program on 50 randomly selected cardiac arrest cases with resuscitation durations between 15 and 60 minutes. CPR process measures were manually abstracted and transferred independently by two trained data abstractors and by the automated software program, followed by manual interpretation of raw ECG tracings, treatment interventions, and patient events. Error rates and the time needed for data abstraction, transfer, and interpretation were measured for both manual and automated methods, compared to an additional independent reviewer. A total of 9,826 data points were each abstracted by the two abstractors and by the software program. Manual data abstraction resulted in a total of six errors (0.06%) compared to zero errors by the software program. The mean ± SD time measured per case for manual data abstraction was 20.3 ± 2.7 minutes compared to 5.3 ± 1.4 minutes using the software program (p = 0.003). We developed and validated an automated software program that efficiently abstracts and transfers CPR process measures data from electronic defibrillators for complete cardiac arrest episodes. This software will enable future cardiac arrest studies and quality assurance programs to evaluate the impact of CPR process measures during prolonged resuscitations. © 2016 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine.

  18. SCINFUL: A Monte Carlo based computer program to determine a scintillator full energy response to neutron detection for E/sub n/ between 0. 1 and 80 MeV: Program development and comparisons of program predictions with experimental data

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

    Dickens, J.K.

    1988-04-01

    This document provides a discussion of the development of the FORTRAN Monte Carlo program SCINFUL (for scintillator full response), a program designed to provide a calculated full response anticipated for either an NE-213 (liquid) scintillator or an NE-110 (solid) scintillator. The program may also be used to compute angle-integrated spectra of charged particles (p, d, t, /sup 3/He, and ..cap alpha..) following neutron interactions with /sup 12/C. Extensive comparisons with a variety of experimental data are given. There is generally overall good agreement (<10% differences) of results from SCINFUL calculations with measured detector responses, i.e., N(E/sub r/) vs E/sub r/more » where E/sub r/ is the response pulse height, reproduce measured detector responses with an accuracy which, at least partly, depends upon how well the experimental configuration is known. For E/sub n/ < 16 MeV and for E/sub r/ > 15% of the maximum pulse height response, calculated spectra are within +-5% of experiment on the average. For E/sub n/ up to 50 MeV similar good agreement is obtained with experiment for E/sub r/ > 30% of maximum response. For E/sub n/ up to 75 MeV the calculated shape of the response agrees with measurements, but the calculations underpredicts the measured response by up to 30%. 65 refs., 64 figs., 3 tabs.« less

  19. Extending the university into the community to address healthcare disparities.

    PubMed

    Fitch, Cindy; Donato, Louise; Strawder, Paula

    2013-01-01

    Healthcare disparities in rural areas contribute to poor health outcomes, but health outcomes are also affected by social determinants of health and lifestyle behaviors. There is a compelling need to promote physical, mental, and financial health through community-based programs that lead to behavior change. The objective of this article is to disseminate information about West Virginia University Extension Service programming as it relates to health issues in rural communities. There is a WVU Extension office in each county with one or more faculty and staff members. They deliver research-based educational programs that promote diabetes self-management, moderate physical activity, healthier food choices, stress management, fall prevention, and financial competency. Healthcare providers are encouraged to refer clients to their local Extension office for educational programs that put knowledge to work.

  20. Tension band wiring of the olecranon: is it really a dynamic principle of osteosynthesis?

    PubMed

    Brink, P R G; Windolf, M; de Boer, P; Brianza, S; Braunstein, V; Schwieger, K

    2013-04-01

    The tension band principle as applied to transverse olecranon fractures fixed by tension band wiring is based on the premise that distraction forces on the outer cortex of the ulna during elbow flexion are converted to compression forces on the articular surface of the olecranon at the fracture site. In view of some clinical outcomes, where hardware failure and secondary dislocations occur, the question arises if the dynamic compression theory is correct. Compressive forces during active flexion and extension after tension band wiring of a transverse osteotomy of the olecranon were measured in 6 fresh frozen human cadaveric models using a pressure-sensor in the osteotomy gap. We could collect 30 measurements during active flexion and 30 during active extension. Active flexion did not cause any compressive forces in the osteotomy gap. Extension with the humerus in an upright position and the elbow actively extended causes some compression (0.37-0.51 MPa) at the articular surface comparing with active flexion (0.2 MPa) due to gravity forces. Posterior, there was no significant pressure difference observed (0.41-0.45 versus 0.36-0.32 MPa) between active flexion and extension. The tension band wiring principle only exists during active extension in a range of 30-120° of flexion of the elbow. Postoperative exercise programs should be modified in order to prevent loss of compression at the fracture site of transverse olecranon fractures, treated with tension band wiring when the elbow is mobilised. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  1. Ramifications of increased training in quantitative methodology.

    PubMed

    Zimiles, Herbert

    2009-01-01

    Comments on the article "Doctoral training in statistics, measurement, and methodology in psychology: Replication and extension of Aiken, West, Sechrest, and Reno's (1990) survey of PhD programs in North America" by Aiken, West, and Millsap. The current author asks three questions that are provoked by the comprehensive identification of gaps and deficiencies in the training of quantitative methodology that led Aiken, West, and Millsap to call for expanded graduate instruction resources and programs. This comment calls for greater attention to how advances and expansion in the training of quantitative analysis are influencing who chooses to study psychology and how and what will be studied. PsycINFO Database Record 2009 APA.

  2. Acute attenuation of fatigue after sodium bicarbonate supplementation does not manifest into greater training adaptations after 10-weeks of resistance training exercise.

    PubMed

    Siegler, Jason C; Marshall, Paul W M; Finn, Harrison; Cross, Rebecca; Mudie, Kurt

    2018-01-01

    In two concurrent studies, we aimed to a) confirm the acute effect of 0.3 g·kg-1 body weight (BW) sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) supplementation on central and peripheral mechanisms associated with explosive power (Study 1) and b) determine whether chronic NaHCO3 supplementation would improve the adaptive response of the neuromuscular system during a 10-week resistance training program (Study 2). Eight resistance trained participants volunteered after providing written consent. The experimental design consisted of a week of baseline testing, followed by ten weeks of training with progress measures performed in Week 5. Study 1 involved neuromuscular measurements before and after the leg extension portion of a power based training session performed in Week 1. Changes in maximal torque (MVT) and rates of torque development (RTD), along with other variables derived from femoral nerve stimulation (e.g. voluntary activation, neural recruitment) were analysed to determine the extent of fatigue under NaHCO3 or placebo conditions. Changes in these same variables, coupled with functional 1-repetition maximum leg extension strength, were measured in Study 2 from baseline (Week 0) to Week 5, and again at Week 10. In Study 1, we observed a decline after the leg extension task in both MVT (~ 30%) and rates of torque production (RTD) irrespective of acid-base status, however the decline in maximal RTD (RTDMAX) was nearly 20% less in the NaHCO3 condition when compared to placebo (mean difference of 294.8 ± 133.4 Nm·s-1 (95% CI -583.1 to -6.5 Nm, p < 0.05)). The primary finding in Study 2, however, suggests that introducing NaHCO3 repeatedly during a 10-week RT program does not confer any additional benefit to the mechanisms (and subsequent adaptive processes) related to explosive power production.

  3. Using Distance Education to Teach the New Food Label to Extension Educators.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Struempler, Barbara; And Others

    1997-01-01

    Satellite training about the new national food labeling system was provided to 97 Alabama extension agents and 67 program assistants. The program, which consisted of a 30-minute video and 25-minute question/answer call-in, proved an effective means of distance education. (SK)

  4. Trials and Triumphs of Expanded Extension Programs.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Leavengood, Scott; Love, Bob

    1998-01-01

    Oregon extension faced challenges in presenting programs in the wood products industry. Several traditional tactics, revised to suit a new audience, have proved successful: personal coaching, building partnerships, and providing a high level of service. Newer methods, such as database marketing and distance learning, are also proving to be…

  5. The Data Party: Involving Stakeholders in Meaningful Data Analysis

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Franz, Nancy K.

    2013-01-01

    A hallmark of Extension includes the involvement of stakeholders in research and program needs assessment, design, implementation, evaluation, and reporting. A data party can be used to enhance this stakeholder involvement specifically in data analysis. This type of event can not only increase client participation in Extension programming and…

  6. 75 FR 63845 - Medical Device User Fees; Public Meeting; Extension of Comment Period

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-10-18

    ...] Medical Device User Fees; Public Meeting; Extension of Comment Period AGENCY: Food and Drug Administration... stakeholders on the Agency's medical user fee program and requested suggestions regarding the commitments FDA... interested stakeholders to discuss the Agency's medical user fee program and requested suggestions regarding...

  7. 78 FR 42778 - Medicare Program; Comprehensive ESRD Care Initiative; Extension of the Submission Deadlines for...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-07-17

    ... ESRD Care Model would result in improved health outcomes for beneficiaries with ESRD regarding the... DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services [CMS-5506-N2] Medicare Program; Comprehensive ESRD Care Initiative; Extension of the Submission Deadlines for the Letters...

  8. Extension Master Gardener Intranet: Automating Administration, Motivating Volunteers, Increasing Efficiency, and Facilitating Impact Reporting

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bradley, Lucy K.; Cook, Jonneen; Cook, Chris

    2011-01-01

    North Carolina State University has incorporated many aspects of volunteer program administration and reporting into an on-line solution that integrates impact reporting into daily program management. The Extension Master Gardener Intranet automates many of the administrative tasks associated with volunteer management, increasing efficiency, and…

  9. Tea Time: Raising Awareness and Support for Extension

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Franz, Nancy K.; Fahey, Chris

    2012-01-01

    In a time of reliance on electronic media for information, chaotic programming environments, and declining public resources, Extension workers need to find unique ways to connect with stakeholders to maintain and increase support for programming. To address this need, we developed, conducted, and evaluated a series of stakeholder teas. We found…

  10. The Money Mentors Program: Increasing Financial Literacy in Utah Youths

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Garcia, Zurishaddai A.; Francis, Dave; Christensen, Amanda; MacArthur, Stacey S.; Memmott, Margie; Hill, Paul A.

    2017-01-01

    Utah 4-H and Fidelity Investments collaborated on a program for increasing the financial literacy of teens and children. The collaboration resulted in positive impacts for both Extension and Utah youths. Extension benefited through partnership with a corporation that provided content expertise, volunteers, and funding for a financial literacy…

  11. Using a Hybrid Approach for a Leadership Cohort Program

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Norman, Maxine A.

    2013-01-01

    Because information technology continues to change rapidly, Extension is challenged with learning and using technology appropriately. We assert Extension cannot shy away from the challenges but must embrace technology because audiences and external forces demand it. A hybrid, or blended, format of a leadership cohort program was offered to public…

  12. An Extension Education Program to Help Local Governments with Flood Adaptation

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Gary, Gretchen; Allred, Shorna; LoGiudice, Elizabeth

    2014-01-01

    Education is an important tool to increase the capacity of local government officials for community flood adaptation. To address flood adaptation and post-flood stream management in municipalities, Cornell Cooperative Extension and collaborators developed an educational program to increase municipal officials' knowledge about how to work…

  13. Missouri Small Farm Family Program. Revised.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Enlow, George; And Others

    Records maintained by rural extension designees on the Missouri Small Farm Family Program, (initiated in 1972 by the cooperative extension service to help low income farm families learn to use available resources to improve their quality of life) provided data re: family characteristics, farm improvement progress, and improvement in the quality of…

  14. Strengthening Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Professionals through a Competency-Based Professional Development System

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Franck, Karen; Penn, Allisen; Wise, Dena; Berry, Ann

    2017-01-01

    Responding to reduced funding and organizational restructuring, many state Extension programs have reorganized counties into regional-based entities and limited family and consumer sciences (FCS) to specialized programs in areas such as foods and nutrition (Braverman, Franz, & Rennekamp, 2012; Franz & Cox, 2012; White & Teuteberg,…

  15. Ketso: A New Tool for Extension Professionals

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bates, James S.

    2016-01-01

    Extension professionals employ many techniques and tools to obtain feedback, input, information, and data from stakeholders, research participants, and program learners. An information-gathering tool called Ketso is described in this article. This tool and its associated techniques can be used in all phases of program development, implementation,…

  16. 75 FR 1812 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comment Request

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-01-13

    ... Under Review: Extension of a currently approved collection; Bulletproof Vest Partnership. The Department...: Extension of a currently approved collection. (2) The title of the form/collection: Bulletproof Vest... Vest Partnership (BVP) Program. The purpose of this program is to help protect the lives of law...

  17. Serving Clientele with Disabilities: An Assessment of Texas FCS Agents' Needs for Implementing Inclusive Programs

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Peterson, Rick L.; Grenwelge, Cheryl; Benz, Michael R.; Zhang, Dalun; Resch, J. Aaron; Mireles, Gerardo; Mahadevan, Lakshmi

    2012-01-01

    This article reports on a qualitative study to assess Texas Family Consumer Science (FCS) Extension professionals' experiences working with individuals with disabilities and their perceived skills in promoting and delivering inclusive educational programming for this audience. Study results indicate that overall Extension educators viewed…

  18. 75 FR 39016 - Notice of Public Information Collection(s) Being Reviewed by the Federal Communications...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-07-07

    ... program (formerly known as the schools and libraries universal support program), eligible schools, libraries, and their consortia may apply for discounts for telecommunications services, Internet access, and... extension on or before the September 30 deadline. These extensions ensure that schools and libraries are not...

  19. Source Lines Counter (SLiC) Version 4.0

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Monson, Erik W.; Smith, Kevin A.; Newport, Brian J.; Gostelow, Roli D.; Hihn, Jairus M.; Kandt, Ronald K.

    2011-01-01

    Source Lines Counter (SLiC) is a software utility designed to measure software source code size using logical source statements and other common measures for 22 of the programming languages commonly used at NASA and the aerospace industry. Such metrics can be used in a wide variety of applications, from parametric cost estimation to software defect analysis. SLiC has a variety of unique features such as automatic code search, automatic file detection, hierarchical directory totals, and spreadsheet-compatible output. SLiC was written for extensibility; new programming language support can be added with minimal effort in a short amount of time. SLiC runs on a variety of platforms including UNIX, Windows, and Mac OSX. Its straightforward command-line interface allows for customization and incorporation into the software build process for tracking development metrics. T

  20. Proceedings for the Symposium on Research Needs for Extension Education (Columbus, Ohio, May 21-23, 1985).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ohio State Univ., Columbus. Cooperative Extension Service.

    These proceedings consist of the following presentations and discussion papers: "Extension Research Needs in Evalaution" (Michael Patton); "Needed Research in Program Development" (Roger Lawrence); "The Cooperative Extension Service: A National Assessment" (Paul Warner); "National Study of Extension's Research…

  1. The Project P.A.T.H.S. in Hong Kong: Work Done and Lessons Learned in a Decade.

    PubMed

    Shek, Daniel T L; Wu, Florence K Y

    2016-02-01

    The Project Positive Adolescent Training through Holistic Social Programs is a positive youth development program initiated and financially supported by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust. Since 2005, the project has gone through several phases, including the initial phase (2005-2012), school-based extension phase (2009-2016), and community-based extension phase (2013-2017). In the initial phase, with the involvement of academics from 5 universities in Hong Kong, the research team developed youth enhancement programs for junior secondary school students (20 hours per grade), trained the program implementers (20 hours per grade), assisted in the implementation in more than 250 schools, and evaluated the program using multiple evaluation strategies, including a 5-year longitudinal experimental study. In the school-based extension phase, the project was implemented for another cycle (2009-2010 and 2011-2012 school years) and a 6-year longitudinal study was conducted to understand the psychosocial development of Chinese adolescents in Hong Kong. In the community-based extension phase, the programs were administered by social workers in the community settings. Generally speaking, different evaluation findings showed that the programs in Project Positive Adolescent Training through Holistic Social Programs promoted positive development and reduced risk behavior in Chinese adolescents in Hong Kong. Positive youth development attributes and family functioning also have positive contributions to adolescent developmental outcomes over time. Copyright © 2016 North American Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  2. The electromagnetic environment in CFC structures

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hardwick, C. J.; Haigh, S. J.

    1991-01-01

    Extensive measurements of induced voltages and currents were made using a CFC (carbon fiber composites) horizontal stabilizer from the A320 as a test bed. The work was done to investigate the efficacy of various protection schemes to reduce the magnitudes of the induced voltages and validate a computer program INDCAL. Results indicate that a good understanding of the various induced voltage mechanisms including the long wave effect due to current redistribution was obtained.

  3. Measurements of Turbulent Flow Field in Separate Flow Nozzles with Enhanced Mixing Devices - Test Report

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bridges, James

    2002-01-01

    As part of the Advanced Subsonic Technology Program, a series of experiments was conducted at NASA Glenn Research Center on the effect of mixing enhancement devices on the aeroacoustic performance of separate flow nozzles. Initial acoustic evaluations of the devices showed that they reduced jet noise significantly, while creating very little thrust loss. The explanation for the improvement required that turbulence measurements, namely single point mean and RMS statistics and two-point spatial correlations, be made to determine the change in the turbulence caused by the mixing enhancement devices that lead to the noise reduction. These measurements were made in the summer of 2000 in a test program called Separate Nozzle Flow Test 2000 (SFNT2K) supported by the Aeropropulsion Research Program at NASA Glenn Research Center. Given the hot high-speed flows representative of a contemporary bypass ratio 5 turbofan engine, unsteady flow field measurements required the use of an optical measurement method. To achieve the spatial correlations, the Particle Image Velocimetry technique was employed, acquiring high-density velocity maps of the flows from which the required statistics could be derived. This was the first successful use of this technique for such flows, and shows the utility of this technique for future experimental programs. The extensive statistics obtained were likewise unique and give great insight into the turbulence which produces noise and how the turbulence can be modified to reduce jet noise.

  4. Value-based insurance design: benefits beyond cost and utilization.

    PubMed

    Gibson, Teresa B; Maclean, Ross J; Chernew, Michael E; Fendrick, A Mark; Baigel, Colin

    2015-01-01

    As value-based insurance design (VBID) programs proliferate, evidence is emerging on the impact of VBID. To date, studies have largely measured VBID impact on utilization, and a few studies have assessed its impact on quality, outcomes, and cost. In this commentary we discuss these domains, summarize evidence, and propose the extension of measurement of VBID impact into areas including workplace productivity and quality of life, employee and patient engagement, and talent attraction and retention. We contend that VBID evaluations should consider a broad variety of programmatic dividends on both humanistic and health-related outcomes.

  5. Implementation of an experimental program to investigate the performance characteristics of OMEGA navigation

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Baxa, E. G., Jr.

    1974-01-01

    A theoretical formulation of differential and composite OMEGA error is presented to establish hypotheses about the functional relationships between various parameters and OMEGA navigational errors. Computer software developed to provide for extensive statistical analysis of the phase data is described. Results from the regression analysis used to conduct parameter sensitivity studies on differential OMEGA error tend to validate the theoretically based hypothesis concerning the relationship between uncorrected differential OMEGA error and receiver separation range and azimuth. Limited results of measurement of receiver repeatability error and line of position measurement error are also presented.

  6. Passive Wake Acoustics Measurements at Denver International Airport

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Wang, Frank Y.; Wassaf, Hadi; Dougherty, Robert P.; Clark, Kevin; Gulsrud, Andrew; Fenichel, Neil; Bryant, Wayne H.

    2004-01-01

    From August to September 2003, NASA conducted an extensive measurement campaign to characterize the acoustic signal of wake vortices. A large, both spatially as well as in number of elements, phased microphone array was deployed at Denver International Airport for this effort. This paper will briefly describe the program background, the microphone array, as well as the supporting ground-truth and meteorological sensor suite. Sample results to date are then presented and discussed. It is seen that, in the frequency range processed so far, wake noise is generated predominantly from a very confined area around the cores.

  7. Purdue Extension: Employee Engagement and Leadership Style

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Abbott, Angela R.

    2017-01-01

    The purpose of this quantitative study was to assess the Purdue Extension county directors' level of engagement and leadership style and to examine the relationship between these two variables. The study aimed to inform a professional development training program for all Purdue Extension county extension directors. Survey data were collected from…

  8. 2016 All Bugs Good and Bad Webinar Series - eXtension

    Science.gov Websites

    Urban Agriculture, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension and Clemson Cooperative Extension. Series / NIFA This work is supported by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture, New Technologies Internationalizing Extension Network Literacy Program Evaluation Volunteer Administration Women in Agriculture

  9. ANALYSIS OF "IN-DEPTH" SCHOOLS CONDUCTED BY AREA EXTENSION AGENTS.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    MCCORMICK, ROBERT W.

    FIVE EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS WERE CONDUCTED DURING THE FALL AND WINTER OF 1965-66 AT AREA EXTENSION CENTERS ESTABLISHED BY THE OHIO COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SERVICE IN JANUARY 1965. AIMING MAINLY AT THE COMMERCIAL AGRICULTURAL INDUSTRY, SPECIALIZED EXTENSION AGENTS FOCUSED ON EDUCATIONAL PROBLEMS OF AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION AND OF SUCH AGRIBUSINESS…

  10. Characteristics and Motivational Factors of Effective Extension Advisory Leaders

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Spearman, Teresa Joy

    2011-01-01

    Building an effective Extension advisory leadership system is essential for Cooperative Extension to ensure the existence and relevance of university outreach programs to meet community needs. The purpose of this study has been to explore characteristics and motivational factors of effective Extension advisory leaders for identifying, motivating,…

  11. Hybrid Teaching in Extension: Learning at the Crossroads

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hino, Jeff; Kahn, Cub

    2016-01-01

    Extension clients' learning preferences are changing, with many increasingly going online for educational content. In response, Oregon State University Extension pilot tested a training program for Extension educators to explore hybrid teaching--a methodology that could provide more flexible access to a wider audience. Hybrid teaching offers a…

  12. 49 CFR 22.61 - Loan guarantee extensions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 49 Transportation 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Loan guarantee extensions. 22.61 Section 22.61 Transportation Office of the Secretary of Transportation SHORT-TERM LENDING PROGRAM (STLP) Loan Administration § 22.61 Loan guarantee extensions. An extension of the original loan guarantee may be requested, in...

  13. Redefining the Concept of Learning in Cooperative Extension

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Worker, Steven M.; Ouellette, Kristy L.; Maille, Alexa

    2017-01-01

    For Extension educational programs to meet the educational needs of today's youths, families, and communities, Extension needs to expand "what counts" as learning. The purpose of this article is to define learning in the context of Extension. We summarize key aspects of the educational research literature by comparing two prevailing…

  14. Strategic Directions for Extension Health and Wellness Programs

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rodgers, Michelle; Braun, Bonnie

    2015-01-01

    The new Cooperative Extension National Framework for Health and Wellness is a tool to help Extension systematically address the programmatic area of health and wellness at the individual, community, environmental, and policy levels. Key strategies of the framework tool are provided and suggestions for ways that Extension can use this framework…

  15. Analyzing the Natural Resource Extension Needs of Spanish-Speakers: A Perspective from Florida

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wyman, Miriam; Escobedo, Francisco; Varela, Sebastian; Asuaje, Cesar; Mayer, Henry; Swisher, Mickie; Hermansen-Baez, Annie

    2011-01-01

    Hispanics are the country's fastest growing minority group. The study reported here surveyed and assessed Extension agents from two demographically different regions in Florida on perceptions and attitudes about the need, quality, and dissemination of Spanish Extension materials. Results showed Extension programs are important sources of…

  16. Effect of the long-term care prevention project on the motor functions and daily life activities of the elderly.

    PubMed

    Wada, Yoshihiro; Sakuraba, Keisyoku; Kubota, Atsushi

    2015-01-01

    [Purpose] The purpose of this study was to verify the effects of the long-term care prevention project and develop an effective program. [Subjects] A total of 81 elderly people (age, 79 ± 5.1 years; height, 149.2 ± 9.2 cm; weight, 54.2 ± 11.4 kg). [Methods] Grip, knee extension muscular strength, 10 m walking speed, and Timed Up and Go time were measured for evaluation of motor functions, and the "Locomo 25", a 25-question risk assessment questionnaire, was used as the judgment criterion for evaluation of daily life activities, with measurements being taken at the beginning of the project and after three months. [Results] In the motor functions evaluation, significant differences were observed in 10 m walking speed, Timed Up and Go time, and knee extension strength. In the daily life activities evaluation, scores for pain, rising movement, standing movement, indoor walking, outdoor walking, and fear of falling were significantly reduced. In addition, a significant correlation was also observed between motor functions and daily life activities. [Conclusion] The result of this study indicated that the long-term care prevention project is effective in maintaining or improving muscular strength and mitigating pain in the elderly and that it is an effective program for maintaining daily life activities. We were also able to show that it would be effective to develop programs with a low exercise intensity that can be performed on a continuing by the elderly.

  17. PubMed Central

    Descarreaux, Martin; Blouin, Jean-Sébastien; Normand, Martin C; Hudon, Daniel

    2001-01-01

    Background: Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) produces gradual ossification in articular components of the sacro-iliac joints, spine, thoracic and scapular region. This pathology features a diminution of range of motion, muscle force and extensibility as well as functional capacities. Actual treatment of ankylosing spondylitis includes exercise program aimed at pain control, restoration of normal muscle force and extensibility and improvement in functional capacities. These programs are designed to adapt to the special characteristics of ankylosing spondylitis population. Case study: We present the case of a 30 years old man suffering from AS who participated in a 10 week exercise program based on his personal characteristics. We evaluated changes in trunk and hip muscle force and extensibility, pain level (visual pain scale) and disability level (Modified Oswerstry questionnaire). Conclusion: He showed improvement of some physical characteristics that were deficient in the initial evaluation. Improvement were noted in trunk range of motion, some muscular group forces and extensibility of certain muscles too.

  18. Control of octopus arm extension by a peripheral motor program.

    PubMed

    Sumbre, G; Gutfreund, Y; Fiorito, G; Flash, T; Hochner, B

    2001-09-07

    For goal-directed arm movements, the nervous system generates a sequence of motor commands that bring the arm toward the target. Control of the octopus arm is especially complex because the arm can be moved in any direction, with a virtually infinite number of degrees of freedom. Here we show that arm extensions can be evoked mechanically or electrically in arms whose connection with the brain has been severed. These extensions show kinematic features that are almost identical to normal behavior, suggesting that the basic motor program for voluntary movement is embedded within the neural circuitry of the arm itself. Such peripheral motor programs represent considerable simplification in the motor control of this highly redundant appendage.

  19. Automatic documentation system extension to multi-manufacturers' computers and to measure, improve, and predict software reliability

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Simmons, D. B.

    1975-01-01

    The DOMONIC system has been modified to run on the Univac 1108 and the CDC 6600 as well as the IBM 370 computer system. The DOMONIC monitor system has been implemented to gather data which can be used to optimize the DOMONIC system and to predict the reliability of software developed using DOMONIC. The areas of quality metrics, error characterization, program complexity, program testing, validation and verification are analyzed. A software reliability model for estimating program completion levels and one on which to base system acceptance have been developed. The DAVE system which performs flow analysis and error detection has been converted from the University of Colorado CDC 6400/6600 computer to the IBM 360/370 computer system for use with the DOMONIC system.

  20. Medicare program; additional extension of the payment adjustment for low-volume hospitals and the Medicare-dependent hospital (MDH) program under the hospital Inpatient Prospective Payment Systems (IPPS) for acute care hospitals for fiscal year 2014. Extension of a payment adjustment and a program.

    PubMed

    2014-06-17

    This document announces changes to the payment adjustment for low-volume hospitals and to the Medicare-dependent hospital (MDH) program under the hospital inpatient prospective payment systems (IPPS) for the second half of FY 2014 (April 1, 2014 through September 30, 2014) in accordance with sections 105 and 106, respectively, of the Protecting Access to Medicare Act of 2014 (PAMA).

  1. Influences of the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Home Economics Program. Part I.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mann, Opal

    In planning a reorganization of the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service by re-grouping counties, a statewide study of home economics education was made to determine the audience for the programs, methods by which audiences were reached, and differences between members of homemakers clubs and nonmembers. Interviews were held with a 5% random…

  2. What Is Professional Development Worth? Calculating the Value of Onboarding Programs in Extension

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Harder, Amy; Hodges, Alan; Zelaya, Priscilla

    2017-01-01

    Return on investment (ROI) is a commonly used metric for organizations concerned with demonstrating the value of their investments; it can be used to determine whether funds spent providing professional development programs for Extension professionals are good investments. This article presents a method for calculating ROI for an onboarding…

  3. Scholarly Mentor Program: Supporting Faculty in the Writing and Publication Process

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Smith, Diane K.; Martinez, AnaMaria Diaz; Lanigan, Jane; Wells-Moses, Kayla; Koehler, Christian

    2018-01-01

    The WSU Extension Scholarly Writing Group (ESWG) is a one-year faculty development mentoring program designed to support faculty on tenure or promotion track. The ESWG was created in response to increased expectations for Extension county-based faculty to contribute to the scientific literature within their fields through peer-reviewed…

  4. Dutchwoman Butte revisited: Examining paradigms for livestock grazing exclusion

    Treesearch

    Jim Sprinkle; Mick Holder; Chas Erickson; Al Medina; Dan Robinett; George Ruyle; Jim Maynard; Sabrina Tuttle; John Hays; Walt Meyer; Scott Stratton; Alix Rogstad; Kevin Eldredge; Joe Harris; Larry Howery; Wesley Sprinkle

    2007-01-01

    In 2000, a collaborative range-monitoring program, "Reading the Range," was established with the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension in Gila County, the Gila County Cattle Growers, and the Tonto National Forest with the assistance of the US Department of Agriculture Renewable Resources Extension Act grant program. Funding for Reading the Range has...

  5. Evaluating the Impact of Cooperative Extension Outreach via Twitter

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    O'Neill, Barbara

    2014-01-01

    Twitter is increasingly being used by Extension educators as a teaching and program-marketing tool. It is not enough, however, to simply use Twitter to disseminate information. Steps must be taken to evaluate program impact with quantitative and qualitative data. This article described the following Twitter evaluation metrics: unique hashtags,…

  6. Social Media in Diabetes Education: A Viable Option?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cooper, Julie; Cox, Jill N.; Corbin, Marilyn A.

    2012-01-01

    As Extension educators are encouraged to implement more cost-effective and efficient means of programming, the use of Web-based social media has become a popular option. Penn State Extension implemented a social media awareness survey among participants in its community-based diabetes education program to determine familiarity with this medium,…

  7. 75 FR 56507 - Extension of Award Period for FY 2007 Coastal and Estuarine Land Conservation Program Grants

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-09-16

    ... Assistant Administrator for Management and CFO/CAO, Ocean Services and Coastal Zone Management. [FR Doc...-01] RIN 0648-ZC21 Extension of Award Period for FY 2007 Coastal and Estuarine Land Conservation....gov . SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Coastal and Estuarine Land Conservation Program was established...

  8. Extension Education Drives Economic Stimulus through Trade Adjustment Assistance for Farmers

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Neibergs, J. Shannon; Mahnken, Curtis; Moore, Danna L.; Kemper, Nathan P.; Nelson, John Glenn, III; Rainey, Ron; Hipple, Patricia

    2015-01-01

    Trade Adjustment Assistance for Farmers (TAAF) is a national multifaceted USDA program that provided technical and financial assistance to farmers and fishermen adversely affected by import competition. This article describes how Extension was successfully mobilized to deliver the TAAF program to 10,983 producers across the nation using innovative…

  9. Assessing Nature-Based Recreation to Support Economic Development and Environmental Sustainability Extension Programs

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Borisova, Tatiana; Bi, Xiang; Larkin, Sherry; Longanecker, James

    2016-01-01

    In support of community development, natural resource, and other Extension programs, the research reported here aimed to identify current and potential outdoor recreational opportunities in the St. Johns River Basin, an inland area in northeastern Florida. We identify the characteristics of the visitors participating in the recreational activities…

  10. 4-H in the 70's.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Extension Service (USDA), Washington, DC.

    Developed under the leadership of the 1970 and 1971 Extension Committee on Organization and Policy 4-H Youth Subcommittees, the brochure offers a statement of potential and new directions for Extension 4-H youth programs. Opening sections deal with the functions of 4-H and balanced 4-H program expansion to serve seven million youth. Succeeding…

  11. Making Evaluation Work for You: Ideas for Deriving Multiple Benefits from Evaluation

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Jayaratne, K. S. U.

    2016-01-01

    Increased demand for accountability has forced Extension educators to evaluate their programs and document program impacts. Due to this situation, some Extension educators may view evaluation simply as the task, imposed on them by administrators, of collecting outcome and impact data for accountability. They do not perceive evaluation as a useful…

  12. A Review of Extension Master Gardener Program Record-Keeping Systems

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Dorn, Sheri

    2016-01-01

    Record-keeping systems (or volunteer management systems) were identified as a capacity-building tool for Extension master gardener volunteer (EMGV) programs. Not all states have or use such systems, and there are differences among existing systems. A survey was conducted in June 2015 to document and compare record-keeping systems for EMGV programs…

  13. Online Leader Training Course: Nebraska Equine Extension Leader Certification

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cottle, Lena; D'Angelo, Nicole

    2015-01-01

    The Nebraska Equine Advancement Level Leader Certification Program is an online learning tool that clarifies principles of the Nebraska 4-H Equine Advancement Programs. Through an online Moodle course through eXtension.org, 4-H leaders and Extension educators are able to fulfill the certification requirement from any location before allowing youth…

  14. 75 FR 21232 - FY 2010 NIST Center for Neutron Research (NCNR) Comprehensive Grants Program Extension of Due...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-04-23

    ...-0182-02] FY 2010 NIST Center for Neutron Research (NCNR) Comprehensive Grants Program Extension of Due Date for Proposals AGENCY: National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), United States Department of Commerce. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: NIST publishes this notice to extend the deadline for...

  15. Small Scale Marine Fisheries: An Extension Training Manual. TR-30.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Martinson, Steven; And Others

    This manual is designed for use in a preservice training program for prospective volunteers whose Peace Corps service will be spent working with small-scale artisanal fishing communities in developing nations. The program consists of 8 weeks of intensive training to develop competencies in marine fisheries technology and fisheries extension work…

  16. 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...

  17. A new, low-cost sun photometer for student use

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Espinoza, A.; Pérez-Álvarez, H.; Parra-Vilchis, J. I.; Fauchey-López, E.; Fernando-González, L.; Faus-Landeros, G. E.; Celarier, E. A.; Robinson, D. Q.; Zepeda-Galbez, R.

    2011-12-01

    We have designed a sun photometer for the measurement of aerosol optical thickness (AOT) at 505 nm and 620 nm, using custom-made glass filters (9.5 nm bandpass, FWHM) and photodiodes. The recommended price-point (US150 - US200) allowed us to incorporate technologies such as microcontrollers, a sun target, a USB port for data uploading, nonvolatile memory to contain tables of up to 127 geolocation profiles, extensive calibration data, and a log of up to 2,000 measurements. The instrument is designed to be easy to use, and to provide instant display of AOT estimates. A diffuser in the fore-optics limits the sensitivity to pointing error. We have developed postprocessing software to refine the AOT estimates, format a spreadsheet file, and upload the data to the GLOBE website. We are currently finalizing hardware and firmware, and conducting extensive calibration/validation experiments. These instruments will soon be in production and available to the K-12 education community, including and especially the GLOBE program.

  18. Agricultural extension and mass media.

    PubMed

    Perraton, H

    1983-12-01

    To learn more about the use of the mass media for agricultural extension, the World Bank has considered the efforts of 2 units: INADES-formation in West Africa and the Extension Aids Branch of Malawi. The INADES-formation study focuses on Cameroon but also considers work in Rwanda and the Ivory Coast. Some general conclusions emerge from a comparison of the 2 organizations. Malawi operates an extension service which reaches farmers through extension agents, through farmer training centers, and through mass media. The Extension Aids Branch (EAB) has responsibility for its media work and broadcasts 4 1/2 hours of radio each week. Its 6 regular radio programs include a general program which interviews farmers, a music request program in which the music is interspersed with farming advice, a farming family serial, and a daily broadcast of agricultural news and information. The 17 cinema vans show some agricultural films, made by EAB, some entertainment films, and some government information films from departments other than the ministry of agriculture. EAB also has a well-developed program of research and evaluation of its own work. INADES-formation, the training section of INADES, works towards social and economic development of the population. It teaches peasant farmers and extension agents and does this through running face-to-face seminars, by publishing a magazine, "Agripromo," and through correspondence courses. In 1978-79 INADES-formation enrolled some 4500 farmers and extension agents as students. Both of these organizations work to teach farmers better agriculture techniques, and both were created in response to the fact that agricultural extension agents cannot meet all the farmers in their area. Despite the similarity of objective, there are differences in methods and philosophy. The EAB works in a single country and uses a variety of mass media, with print playing a minor role. INADES-formation is an international and nongovernmental organization and its use of mass media is almost confined to print. Its relationships with government are subtle. The available evidence confirms that the methods used by both institutions are effective. Farmers have learned much from the radio programs and the mobile vans of Malawi and from the correspondence courses of INADES-formation. The Extension Aids Branch makes a significant but most likely small change in the knowledge of a large number of farmers; INADES-formation makes a large change in the knowledge of a small number of farmers. The available evidence suggests that a variety of media, used in various ways, can be effective in supporting agricultural extension or in taking over some of its functions.

  19. WRAP-RIB antenna technology development

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Freeland, R. E.; Garcia, N. F.; Iwamoto, H.

    1985-01-01

    The wrap-rib deployable antenna concept development is based on a combination of hardware development and testing along with extensive supporting analysis. The proof-of-concept hardware models are large in size so they will address the same basic problems associated with the design fabrication, assembly and test as the full-scale systems which were selected to be 100 meters at the beginning of the program. The hardware evaluation program consists of functional performance tests, design verification tests and analytical model verification tests. Functional testing consists of kinematic deployment, mesh management and verification of mechanical packaging efficiencies. Design verification consists of rib contour precision measurement, rib cross-section variation evaluation, rib materials characterizations and manufacturing imperfections assessment. Analytical model verification and refinement include mesh stiffness measurement, rib static and dynamic testing, mass measurement, and rib cross-section characterization. This concept was considered for a number of potential applications that include mobile communications, VLBI, and aircraft surveillance. In fact, baseline system configurations were developed by JPL, using the appropriate wrap-rib antenna, for all three classes of applications.

  20. A two-year program of aerobics and weight training enhances bone mineral density of young women.

    PubMed

    Friedlander, A L; Genant, H K; Sadowsky, S; Byl, N N; Glüer, C C

    1995-04-01

    Previous research suggests that physical activity may have a beneficial effect on bone mineral density (BMD) in women. This relationship was explored in a 2-year, randomized, intervention trial investigating the efficacy of exercise and calcium supplementation on increasing peak bone mass in young women. One hundred and twenty-seven subjects (ages of 20-35 years) were randomly assigned either to an exercise program that contained both aerobics and weight training components or to a stretching program. Calcium supplementation (up to 1500 mg/day including dietary intake) or placebo was given in a double-blinded design to all subjects. Spinal trabecular BMD was determined using quantitative computed tomography (QCT). Spinal integral, femoral neck, and trochanteric BMD were measured by dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and calcaneal BMD by single photon absorptiometry (SPA). Fitness variables included maximal aerobic capacity (VO2max), and isokinetic muscle performance of the trunk and thigh. Measurements were made at baseline, 1 year, and 2 years. Sixty-three subjects (32 exercise, 31 stretching) completed the study, and all the measured bone parameters indicated a positive influence of the exercise intervention. There were significant positive differences in BMD between the exercise and stretching groups for spinal trabecular (2.5%), femoral neck (2.4%), femoral trochanteric (2.3%), and calcaneal (6.4%) measurements. The exercise group demonstrated a significant gain in BMD for spinal integral (1.3 +/- 2.8%, p < 0.02), femoral trochanteric (2.6 +/- 6.1%, p < 0.05), and calcaneal (5.6 +/- 5.1, p < 0.01) measurements. In contrast to exercise, the calcium intervention had no positive effect on any of the bone parameters. In regard to fitness parameters, the exercise group completed the study with significant gains in VO2max and isokinetic (peak torque) values for the knee flexion and extension and trunk extension. This study indicates that over a 2-year period, a combined regimen of aerobics and weight training has beneficial effects on BMD and fitness parameters in young women. However, the addition of daily calcium supplementation does not add significant benefit to the intervention.

  1. A two-year program of aerobics and weight training enhances bone mineral density of young women

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Friedlander, A. L.; Genant, H. K.; Sadowsky, S.; Byl, N. N.; Gluer, C. C.

    1995-01-01

    Previous research suggests that physical activity may have a beneficial effect on bone mineral density (BMD) in women. This relationship was explored in a 2-year, randomized, intervention trial investigating the efficacy of exercise and calcium supplementation on increasing peak bone mass in young women. One hundred and twenty-seven subjects (ages of 20-35 years) were randomly assigned either to an exercise program that contained both aerobics and weight training components or to a stretching program. Calcium supplementation (up to 1500 mg/day including dietary intake) or placebo was given in a double-blinded design to all subjects. Spinal trabecular BMD was determined using quantitative computed tomography (QCT). Spinal integral, femoral neck, and trochanteric BMD were measured by dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and calcaneal BMD by single photon absorptiometry (SPA). Fitness variables included maximal aerobic capacity (VO2max), and isokinetic muscle performance of the trunk and thigh. Measurements were made at baseline, 1 year, and 2 years. Sixty-three subjects (32 exercise, 31 stretching) completed the study, and all the measured bone parameters indicated a positive influence of the exercise intervention. There were significant positive differences in BMD between the exercise and stretching groups for spinal trabecular (2.5%), femoral neck (2.4%), femoral trochanteric (2.3%), and calcaneal (6.4%) measurements. The exercise group demonstrated a significant gain in BMD for spinal integral (1.3 +/- 2.8%, p < 0.02), femoral trochanteric (2.6 +/- 6.1%, p < 0.05), and calcaneal (5.6 +/- 5.1, p < 0.01) measurements. In contrast to exercise, the calcium intervention had no positive effect on any of the bone parameters. In regard to fitness parameters, the exercise group completed the study with significant gains in VO2max and isokinetic (peak torque) values for the knee flexion and extension and trunk extension. This study indicates that over a 2-year period, a combined regimen of aerobics and weight training has beneficial effects on BMD and fitness parameters in young women. However, the addition of daily calcium supplementation does not add significant benefit to the intervention.

  2. Baccalaureate nursing education at extension sites: a survey.

    PubMed

    Tiffany, J C; Burson, J Z

    1986-03-01

    The use of extension sites in baccalaureate nursing education has increased significantly since 1978. This survey found that the majority of extension sites were developed for RNs although large numbers of generic students are also served. The use of extension sites ranges from delivering selected courses away from the lead campus to delivering an entire program. Extension sites may be located on other university campuses or may be found in a store front setting or other community agency. Administrative control of extension sites emanates from the lead campus. Faculty participation in faculty activities, such as school of nursing or university committees, is expected. The degree to which this is accomplished, however, may vary. In order to maintain program integrity, the curriculum must remain the same regardless of where it is implemented. One of the primary ways of doing this is to use the same syllabi, texts and, in many cases, the same exams. Faculty may be stationary at established extended sites or may travel from the lead campus to teach, carrying with them educational materials. Extension sites are a phenomenon of the here and now. They provide a way of delivering baccalaureate nursing education to students who might otherwise be denied this level of education. Extension sites may be operationally cumbersome, challenging, and costly, but they are meeting a need. With the advent of more sophisticated telecommunications and the continued demand for baccalaureate level education, the possibility exists for even greater variation and potential for this type of program.

  3. An Analysis of the Priority Needs of Cooperative Extension at the County Level

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Harder, Amy; Lamm, Alexa; Strong, Robert

    2009-01-01

    Cooperative Extension's role as a relevant provider of nonformal education is dependent upon its ability to improve and adjust in response to internal and external pressures. Periodically conducting needs assessments focused on the Extension organization can aid in Extension's efforts to deliver quality educational programs by pinpointing priority…

  4. Analyzing the natural resource extension needs of Spanish-speakers: A perspective from Florida

    Treesearch

    Miriam Wyman; Francisco Escobedo; Sebastian Varela; Cesar Asuaje; Henry Mayer; Mickie Swisher; Annie Hermansen

    2011-01-01

    Hispanics are the country's fastest growing minority group. The study reported here surveyed and assessed Extension agents from two demographically different regions in Florida on perceptions and attitudes about the need, quality, and dissemination of Spanish Extension materials. Results showed Extension programs are important sources of information for Spanish-...

  5. Utilizing Evaluation To Develop a Marketing Strategy in the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Coreil, Paul D.; Verma, Satish

    Marketing has become a popular strategic initiative among state extension services to meet the growing demand for program accountability. The Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service (LCES) began a formative evaluation of its marketing efforts as a step toward a comprehensive marketing plan. All extension faculty were surveyed to determine their…

  6. Expansion of the Gaming Industry: Opportunities for Cooperative Extension.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Borden, George W.; And Others

    1997-01-01

    All but two states have some form of legalized gaming. However, survey responses from 28 of 50 extension agents indicated that only 2 have extension programming on the economic, social, and moral issues involved in gambling. (SK)

  7. Final Report: High Spectral Resolution Atmospheric Emitted Radiance Studies with the ARM UAV

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

    Revercomb, Henry E.

    1999-12-31

    The active participation in the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) Unmanned Airborne Vehicle (UAV) science team that was anticipated in the grant proposal was indefinitely delayed after the first year due to a programmatic decision to exclude the high spectral resolution observations from the existing ARM UAV program. However, this report shows that substantial progress toward the science objectives of this grant have made with the help of separate funding from NASA and other agencies. In the four year grant period (including time extensions), a new high spectral resolution instrument has been flown and has successfully demonstrated the ability to obtainmore » measurements of the type needed in the conduct of this grant. In the near term, the third water vapor intensive observing period (WVIOP-3) in October 2000 will provide an opportunity to bring the high spectral resolution observations of upwelling radiance into the ARM program to complement the downwelling radiance observations from the existing ARM AERI instruments. We look forward to a time when the ARM-UAV program is able to extend its scope to include the capability for making these high spectral resolution measurements from a UAV platform.« less

  8. Directing the Cooperative Extension Service. Selected Papers Presented at the National Cooperative Extension Administrative Seminar (7th, Madison, Wisconsin, April 30-May 4, 1962).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Clark, Robert C., Ed.; Ralston, N. P., Ed.

    The book provides administrators and students of administration with a background of extension programs of the past, the principles of large scale organization, and staff role in attaining extension goals. In Part 1, Changing Goals of the Cooperative Extension Service, C. M. Ferguson, Professor, University of Wisconsin, speaks on "Changing…

  9. Raising awareness of assistive technology in older adults through a community-based, cooperative extension program.

    PubMed

    Sellers, Debra M; Markham, Melinda Stafford

    2012-01-01

    The Fashion an Easier Lifestyle with Assistive Technology (FELAT) curriculum was developed as a needs-based, community educational program provided through a state Cooperative Extension Service. The overall goal for participants was to raise awareness of assistive technology. Program evaluation included a postassessment and subsequent interview to determine short-term knowledge gain and longer term behavior change. The sample consisted of mainly older, married females. The FELAT program was effective at raising awareness and increasing knowledge of assistive technology, and for many participants, the program acted as a catalyst for planning to or taking action related to assistive technology.

  10. Medicare, Medicaid, and Children's Health Insurance Programs: Announcement of the Extension of Temporary Moratoria on Enrollment of Part B Non-Emergency Ground Ambulance Suppliers and Home Health Agencies in Designated Geographic Locations. Extension of temporary moratoria.

    PubMed

    2017-07-28

    This document announces the extension of statewide temporary moratoria on the enrollment of new Medicare Part B non-emergency ground ambulance providers and suppliers and Medicare home health agencies, subunits, and branch locations in Florida, Illinois, Michigan, Texas, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, as applicable, to prevent and combat fraud, waste, and abuse. This extension also applies to the enrollment of new non-emergency ground ambulance suppliers and home health agencies, subunits, and branch locations in Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program in those states.

  11. Results of an independent evaluation of Project ALERT delivered in schools by Cooperative Extension.

    PubMed

    St Pierre, Tena L; Osgood, D Wayne; Mincemoyer, Claudia C; Kaltreider, D Lynne; Kauh, Tina J

    2005-12-01

    Reported are results of an independent effectiveness study of the Project ALERT drug prevention program implemented in eight Pennsylvania middle schools by outside program leaders employed by Cooperative Extension. In this randomized, 2-cohort longitudinal evaluation, 1,649 seventh-grade students completed a pretest and four waves of posttests over the 2-year program and 1-year follow-up. Project ALERT's effectiveness was tested through a 3-level hierarchical linear model. Analyses failed to yield any positive effects for substance use or mediators for use in the adult or teen-assisted delivery of the curriculum. An extensive set of additional analyses detected no differential program effects by student risk level, gender, school, or level of implementation quality. Potential explanations for outcomes relative to Project ALERT's original effectiveness trial are discussed, as well as implications for future research, including the need to conduct independent effectiveness studies of previously validated programs in a variety of contexts.

  12. Behavior of thermal plasma in the ionosphere and magnetosphere

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Banks, P. M.; Doupnik, J. R.

    1973-01-01

    Models of ion flow in the topside ionosphere were developed. These models took both H(+) and O(+) into account and permitted various parameter studies to be made affecting H(+) escape in polar winds. Extensive computer programs were written to display the measured electron density profiles in ways useful to geophysical analysis. The relationship between the location of the plasmapause as it is found in the equatorial plane and the location of the ionospheric trough was also investigated.

  13. SAVY-4000 Surveillance and Life Extension Program Fiscal Year 2013 Annual Report

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

    Stone, Timothy A.; Blair, Michael W.; Weis, Eric

    2014-03-03

    The Packaging Surveillance Program section of the DOE M441.1-1 /sup>1, Nuclear Material Packaging Manual (DOE, 2008) requires DOE contractors to “ensure that a surveillance program is established and implemented to ensure the nuclear material storage package continues to meet its design criteria.” In order to ensure continuing safe storage of nuclear material and the maximization of risk reduction, TA-55 has established a Surveillance Program to ensure storage container integrity for operations within its specified design life. The LANL SAVY-4000 Field Surveillance Plan2 defines the near-term field surveillance plan for SAVY-4000 containers as required by the Manual. A long-term surveillance planmore » will be established based on the results of the first several years of surveillance and the results of the lifetime extension studies as defined in the Accelerated Aging Plan3. This report details progress in positioning the Surveillance Program for successful implementation in FY14 and status of the Design Life Extension Program in terms of its implementation and data collection for FY13.« less

  14. Aquatic Therapy Improves Outcomes for Subacute Stroke Patients by Enhancing Muscular Strength of Paretic Lower Limbs Without Increasing Spasticity: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Yue; Wang, Yi-Zhao; Huang, Li-Ping; Bai, Bei; Zhou, Shi; Yin, Miao-Miao; Zhao, Hua; Zhou, Xiao-Na; Wang, Hong-Tu

    2016-11-01

    The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of an aquatic exercise program designed to enhance muscular strength in paretic lower limbs in subacute stroke patients. Thirty-six subacute stroke patients were randomly divided to a conventional or an aquatic group (n = 18 each). Outcome measures were assessed at baseline and after 8 wks of training. For the paretic lower limbs, maximum isometric voluntary contraction strength of the rectus femoris and biceps femoris caput longus and the tibialis anterior and lateral gastrocnemius was measured. Cocontraction ratios during knee extension and flexion and ankle dorsiflexion and plantarflexion were calculated respectively. In addition, Modified Ashworth Scale, Functional Ambulation Category, and Barthel Index were assessed. Compared with the conventional intervention, the aquatic intervention resulted in significantly higher knee extension (P = 0.002) and ankle plantarflexion torque (P = 0.002), accompanied with a significantly lower knee extension cocontraction ratio in the paretic limb (P = 0.000). Functional Ambulation Category (P = 0.009) and Barthel Index (P = 0.024) were greater in aquatic group than conventional group posttreatment. Modified Ashworth Scale scores did not show any differences between groups. Aquatic exercise enhanced muscle strength in paretic lower limbs and improved muscle cocontraction without increasing spasticity in subacute stroke patients.

  15. 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.

  16. Creating Extension Programs for Change: Forest Landowners and Climate Change Communication

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Krantz, Shelby; Monroe, Martha; Bartels, Wendy-Lin

    2013-01-01

    The Cooperative Extension Service in the United States can play an important role in educating forest landowners to improve forest resilience in the face of climatic uncertainty. Two focus groups in Florida informed the development of a program that was conducted in Leon County; presurveys and postsurveys and observation provided evaluation data.…

  17. Some Population Trends Affecting Extension Education and Other Community Programs.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Niederfrank, E. J.

    Population trends affecting extension education and other community programs reveal that there will be large increases in numbers of young adult and young middleaged households, beginning in the next five years. The number of households in the United States will rise to 84.4 million by July 1985, representing an increase of 26.3 million over the…

  18. Crossing Ethnic Barriers in the Southwest: Women's Agricultural Extension Education, 1914-1940. Draft.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Jensen, Joan M.

    From its inception in 1914 until 1940, the New Mexico Agricultural Extension Service was quite successful in delivering educational programs to non-English speaking, Hispanic women in Santa Fe County and almost totally unsuccessful in Dona Ana County. Criteria for success were involvement of ethnic women in the program, ability to adapt national…

  19. The Concept Approach to Programming in Adult Education--With Special Application to Extension Education.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Collings, Mary L., Ed.

    The document reports a 10-year seminar effort to consider a framework for a series of inquiries valuable to all institutions engaged in curriculum development or programing. The work reported includes the study of the professional role of the extension adult educator and identifies concepts, propositions, procedures, and a model for use in…

  20. Visual management support system

    Treesearch

    Lee Anderson; Jerry Mosier; Geoffrey Chandler

    1979-01-01

    The Visual Management Support System (VMSS) is an extension of an existing computer program called VIEWIT, which has been extensively used by the U. S. Forest Service. The capabilities of this program lie in the rapid manipulation of large amounts of data, specifically opera-ting as a tool to overlay or merge one set of data with another. VMSS was conceived to...

  1. Public Value Posters: Conveying Societal Benefits of Extension Programs through Evaluation Evidence

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Chazdon, Scott; Meyer, Nathan; Mohr, Caryn; Troschinetz, Alexis

    2017-01-01

    The public value poster session is a new tool for effectively demonstrating and reporting the public value of Extension programming. Akin to the research posters that have long played a critical role in the sharing of findings from academic studies, the public value poster provides a consistent format for conveying the benefits to society of…

  2. Evaluation of an Extension-Delivered Resource for Accelerating Progress in Childhood Obesity Prevention: The BEPA-Toolkit

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Gunter, Katherine B.; Abi Nader, Patrick; Armington, Amanda; Hicks, John C.; John, Deborah

    2017-01-01

    The Balanced Energy Physical Activity Toolkit, or the BEPA-Toolkit, supports physical activity (PA) programming via Extension in elementary schools. In a pilot study, we evaluated the effectiveness of the BEPA-Toolkit as used by teachers through Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education partnerships. We surveyed teachers (n = 57)…

  3. It's the Latest, It's the Greatest, It's [Financial Education] at the Library

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    O'Neill, Barbara

    2013-01-01

    In recent years, libraries have become increasingly involved in financial education, and Extension educators are collaborating with them to deliver programs for their staff and the general public. Benefits to Extension educators include increased visibility, access to new audiences, having program logistics and marketing provided by others, access…

  4. Is Extension Ready to Adopt Technology for Delivering Programs and Reaching New Audiences?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Diem, Keith G.; Hino, Jeff; Martin, Dana; Meisenbach, Terry

    2011-01-01

    The Cooperative Extension System is at a crossroads regarding educational program delivery and clientele relationships in a digital age. To "help prepare counties for a future that demands increased use of technology for improving work efficiencies and expanding audience outreach," an assessment team was appointed to conduct a case study to…

  5. Meals Plus Program--An Innovative Approach for Providing Local Produce to Meals on Wheels Clients

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wagner, Katie

    2016-01-01

    Extension programming often strives to achieve maximum impact on a minimum budget, but when it comes to sourcing local produce, asking farmers to donate sellable commodity can result in a dip into their profits. By connecting community partners, Extension can facilitate collaborations that work in the favor of all participating parties and…

  6. Extensible Markup Language: How Might It Alter the Software Documentation Process and the Role of the Technical Communicator?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Battalio, John T.

    2002-01-01

    Describes the influence that Extensible Markup Language (XML) will have on the software documentation process and subsequently on the curricula of advanced undergraduate and master's programs in technical communication. Recommends how curricula of advanced undergraduate and master's programs in technical communication ought to change in order to…

  7. 78 FR 60821 - Request for Extension and Revision of a Currently Approved Information Collection Under the Clear...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-10-02

    ... Extension and Revision of a Currently Approved Information Collection Under the Clear Title Program AGENCY... ``Clear Title'' regulations as authorized by Section 1324 of the Food Security Act of 1985, as amended... . SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: GIPSA administers the Clear Title Program under the Act (7 U.S.C. 1631) for the...

  8. Behavior Change Strategies for Successful Long-Term Weight Loss: Focusing on Dietary and Physical Activity Adherence, Not Weight Loss

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hongu, Nobuko; Kataura, Martha P.; Block, Linda M.

    2011-01-01

    This article helps Extension professionals guide individuals in a successful long-term weight loss program. A program should focus on behavioral changes (improving eating habits and physical activity), not just weight loss. In order to do this, Extension professionals should implement behavior change strategies that motivate individuals to…

  9. Meeting a Growing Demand: Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service's Early Childhood Educator Online Training Program

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Green, Stephen

    2013-01-01

    Demand for professional development training in the early childhood field has grown substantially in recent years. To meet the demand, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service's Family Development and Resource Management unit developed the Early Childhood Educator Online Training Program, a professional development system that currently offers…

  10. Linking knowledge and action through mental models of sustainable agriculture.

    PubMed

    Hoffman, Matthew; Lubell, Mark; Hillis, Vicken

    2014-09-09

    Linking knowledge to action requires understanding how decision-makers conceptualize sustainability. This paper empirically analyzes farmer "mental models" of sustainability from three winegrape-growing regions of California where local extension programs have focused on sustainable agriculture. The mental models are represented as networks where sustainability concepts are nodes, and links are established when a farmer mentions two concepts in their stated definition of sustainability. The results suggest that winegrape grower mental models of sustainability are hierarchically structured, relatively similar across regions, and strongly linked to participation in extension programs and adoption of sustainable farm practices. We discuss the implications of our findings for the debate over the meaning of sustainability, and the role of local extension programs in managing knowledge systems.

  11. Linking knowledge and action through mental models of sustainable agriculture

    PubMed Central

    Hoffman, Matthew; Lubell, Mark; Hillis, Vicken

    2014-01-01

    Linking knowledge to action requires understanding how decision-makers conceptualize sustainability. This paper empirically analyzes farmer “mental models” of sustainability from three winegrape-growing regions of California where local extension programs have focused on sustainable agriculture. The mental models are represented as networks where sustainability concepts are nodes, and links are established when a farmer mentions two concepts in their stated definition of sustainability. The results suggest that winegrape grower mental models of sustainability are hierarchically structured, relatively similar across regions, and strongly linked to participation in extension programs and adoption of sustainable farm practices. We discuss the implications of our findings for the debate over the meaning of sustainability, and the role of local extension programs in managing knowledge systems. PMID:25157158

  12. The program at JPL to investigate the nuclear interaction of RTG's with scientific instruments on deep space probes

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Truscello, V.

    1972-01-01

    A major concern in the integration of a radioisotope thermoelectric generator (RTG) with a spacecraft designed to explore the outer planets is the effect of the emitted radiation on the normal operation of scientific instruments. The necessary techniques and tools developed to allow accurate calculation of the neutron and gamma spectrum emanating from the RTG. The specific sources of radiation were identified and quantified. Monte Carlo techniques are then employed to perform the nuclear transport calculations. The results of these studies are presented. An extensive experimental program was initiated to measure the response of a number of scientific components to the nuclear radiation.

  13. Pressure Drop Across Woven Screens Under Uniform and Nonuniform Flow Conditions. [flow characteristics of water through Dutch twill and square weave fabrics

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ludewig, M.; Omori, S.; Rao, G. L.

    1974-01-01

    Tests were conducted to determine the experimental pressure drop and velocity data for water flowing through woven screens. The types of materials used are dutch twill and square weave fabrics. Pressure drop measures were made at four locations in a rectangular channel. The data are presented as change in pressure compared with the average entry velocity and the numerical relationship is determined by dividing the volumetric flow rate by the screen area open to flow. The equations of continuity and momentum are presented. A computer program listing an extension of a theoretical model and data from that computer program are included.

  14. Status and Opportunities for Improving the Consistency of Technical Reference Manuals

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

    Jayaweera, Tina; Velonis, Aquila; Haeri, Hossein

    Across the United States, energy-efficiency program administrators rely on Technical Reference Manuals (TRMs) as sources for calculations and deemed savings values for specific, well-defined efficiency measures. TRMs play an important part in energy efficiency program planning by providing a common and consistent source for calculation of ex ante and often ex post savings. They thus help reduce energy-efficiency resource acquisition costs by obviating the need for extensive measurement and verification and lower performance risk for program administrators and implementation contractors. This paper considers the benefits of establishing region-wide or national TRMs and considers the challenges of such undertaking due tomore » the difficulties in comparing energy savings across jurisdictions. We argue that greater consistency across TRMs in the approaches used to determine deemed savings values, with more transparency about assumptions, would allow better comparisons in savings estimates across jurisdictions as well as improve confidence in reported efficiency measure savings. To support this thesis, we review approaches for the calculation of savings for select measures in TRMs currently in use in 17 jurisdictions. The review reveals differences in the saving methodologies, technical assumptions, and input variables used for estimating deemed savings values. These differences are described and their implications are summarized, using four, common energy-efficiency measures as examples. Recommendations are then offered for establishing a uniform approach for determining deemed savings values.« less

  15. Developing measures of educational change for academic health care teams implementing the chronic care model in teaching practices.

    PubMed

    Bowen, Judith L; Stevens, David P; Sixta, Connie S; Provost, Lloyd; Johnson, Julie K; Woods, Donna M; Wagner, Edward H

    2010-09-01

    The Chronic Care Model (CCM) is a multidimensional framework designed to improve care for patients with chronic health conditions. The model strives for productive interactions between informed, activated patients and proactive practice teams, resulting in better clinical outcomes and greater satisfaction. While measures for improving care may be clear, measures of residents' competency to provide chronic care do not exist. This report describes the process used to develop educational measures and results from CCM settings that used them to monitor curricular innovations. Twenty-six academic health care teams participating in the national and California Academic Chronic Care Collaboratives. Using successive discussion groups and surveys, participants engaged in an iterative process to identify desirable and feasible educational measures for curricula that addressed educational objectives linked to the CCM. The measures were designed to facilitate residency programs' abilities to address new accreditation requirements and tested with teams actively engaged in redesigning educational programs. Field notes from each discussion and lists from work groups were synthesized using the CCM framework. Descriptive statistics were used to report survey results and measurement performance. Work groups generated educational objectives and 17 associated measurements. Seventeen (65%) teams provided feasibility and desirability ratings for the 17 measures. Two process measures were selected for use by all teams. Teams reported variable success using the measures. Several teams reported use of additional measures, suggesting more extensive curricular change. Using an iterative process in collaboration with program participants, we successfully defined a set of feasible and desirable education measures for academic health care teams using the CCM. These were used variably to measure the results of curricular changes, while simultaneously addressing requirements for residency accreditation.

  16. Childhood obesity prevention in rural settings: background, rationale, and study design of '4-Health,' a parent-only intervention.

    PubMed

    Lynch, Wesley C; Martz, Jill; Eldridge, Galen; Bailey, Sandra J; Benke, Carrie; Paul, Lynn

    2012-04-02

    Childhood obesity in rural communities is a serious but understudied problem. The current experiment aims to assess a wide range of obesity risk factors among rural youth and to offer an 8-month intervention program for parents to reduce obesity risk in their preteen child. A two-group, repeated measures design is used to assess the effectiveness of the 4-Health intervention program. Assessments include anthropometric measures, child self-evaluations, parent self-evaluations, and parent evaluations of child. County Extension agents from 21 rural Montana counties recruit approximately 150 parent-child dyads and counties are semi-randomly assigned to the active intervention group (4-Health Educational Program) or a "best-practices" (Healthy Living Information) control group. This study will shed light on the effectiveness of this parent-only intervention strategy in reducing obesity risk factors among rural preteens. The 4-Health program is designed to provide information and skills development for busy rural parents that will increase healthy lifestyles of their preteen children and improve the parents' ability to intervene effectively in the lives of their families during this critical developmental period. ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT01510587.

  17. Development of an e-Learning Program for Extensive Reading

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Okazaki, Hironobu; Hashimoto, Shinichi; Fukuda, Eri; Nitta, Haruhiko; Kido, Kazuhiko

    2012-01-01

    As extensive reading becomes more commonplace in the EFL/ESL classroom, there is a rise in the number of instructors and administrators who are looking for cost-effective and space-saving methods to carry out extensive reading activities. Two extensive reading systems to respond to such concerns were developed with the support of a Grant-in-Aid…

  18. Determining Interest in YouTube Topics for Extension-Authored Video Development

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Parish, Jane A.; Karisch, Brandi B.

    2013-01-01

    With an audience of over 1 billion users per month, YouTube is an attractive medium for delivering Extension programming. Amidst growing competition for viewership, determining content that is in demand by Extension clientele on YouTube is a daunting challenge that Extension educators face. The YouTube Search function of Google Trends and…

  19. Materials Characterization at Utah State University: Facilities and Knowledge-base of Electronic Properties of Materials Applicable to Spacecraft Charging

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Dennison, J. R.; Thomson, C. D.; Kite, J.; Zavyalov, V.; Corbridge, Jodie

    2004-01-01

    In an effort to improve the reliability and versatility of spacecraft charging models designed to assist spacecraft designers in accommodating and mitigating the harmful effects of charging on spacecraft, the NASA Space Environments and Effects (SEE) Program has funded development of facilities at Utah State University for the measurement of the electronic properties of both conducting and insulating spacecraft materials. We present here an overview of our instrumentation and capabilities, which are particularly well suited to study electron emission as related to spacecraft charging. These measurements include electron-induced secondary and backscattered yields, spectra, and angular resolved measurements as a function of incident energy, species and angle, plus investigations of ion-induced electron yields, photoelectron yields, sample charging and dielectric breakdown. Extensive surface science characterization capabilities are also available to fully characterize the samples in situ. Our measurements for a wide array of conducting and insulating spacecraft materials have been incorporated into the SEE Charge Collector Knowledge-base as a Database of Electronic Properties of Materials Applicable to Spacecraft Charging. This Database provides an extensive compilation of electronic properties, together with parameterization of these properties in a format that can be easily used with existing spacecraft charging engineering tools and with next generation plasma, charging, and radiation models. Tabulated properties in the Database include: electron-induced secondary electron yield, backscattered yield and emitted electron spectra; He, Ar and Xe ion-induced electron yields and emitted electron spectra; photoyield and solar emittance spectra; and materials characterization including reflectivity, dielectric constant, resistivity, arcing, optical microscopy images, scanning electron micrographs, scanning tunneling microscopy images, and Auger electron spectra. Further details of the instrumentation used for insulator measurements and representative measurements of insulating spacecraft materials are provided in other Spacecraft Charging Conference presentations. The NASA Space Environments and Effects Program, the Air Force Office of Scientific Research, the Boeing Corporation, NASA Graduate Research Fellowships, and the NASA Rocky Mountain Space Grant Consortium have provided support.

  20. Time Regained: When People Stop a Physical Activity Program, How Does Their Time Use Change? A Randomised Controlled Trial

    PubMed Central

    Gomersall, Sjaan; Maher, Carol; English, Coralie; Rowlands, Alex; Olds, Tim

    2015-01-01

    The aim of this study was to investigate how previously inactive adults who had participated in a structured, partly supervised 6-week exercise program restructured their time budgets when the program ended. Using a randomised controlled trial design, 129 previously inactive adults were recruited and randomly allocated to one of three groups: a Moderate or Extensive six-week physical activity intervention (150 and 300 additional minutes of exercise per week, respectively) or a Control group. Additional physical activity was accumulated through both group and individual exercise sessions with a wide range of activities. Use of time and time spent in energy expenditure zones was measured using a computerised 24-h self-report recall instrument, the Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adults, and accelerometry at baseline, mid- and end-program and at 3- and 6-months follow up. At final follow up, all significant changes in time use domains had returned to within 20 minutes of baseline levels (Physical Activity 1-2 min/d, Active Transport 3-9 min/d, Self-Care 0-2 min/d, Television/Videogames 13-18 min/d in the Moderate and Extensive group, relative to Controls, respectively, p>0.05). Similarly, all significant changes in time spent in the moderate energy expenditure zone had returned to within 1-3 min/d baseline levels (p>0.05), however time spent in vigorous physical activity according to accelerometry estimates remained elevated, although the changes were small in magnitude (1 min/d in the Moderate and Extensive groups, relative to Controls, p=0.01). The results of this study demonstrate strong recidivist patterns in physical activity, but also in other aspects of time use. In designing and determining the effectiveness of exercise interventions, future studies would benefit from considering the whole profile of time use, rather than focusing on individual activities. Trial Registration Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12610000248066 PMID:26023914

  1. The NASA modern technology rotors program

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Watts, M. E.; Cross, J. L.

    1986-01-01

    Existing data bases regarding helicopters are based on work conducted on 'old-technology' rotor systems. The Modern Technology Rotors (MTR) Program is to provide extensive data bases on rotor systems using present and emerging technology. The MTR is concerned with modern, four-bladed, rotor systems presently being manufactured or under development. Aspects of MTR philosophy are considered along with instrumentation, the MTR test program, the BV 360 Rotor, and the UH-60 Black Hawk. The program phases include computer modelling, shake test, model-scale test, minimally instrumented flight test, extensively pressure-instrumented-blade flight test, and full-scale wind tunnel test.

  2. 40 CFR 52.691 - Extensions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Extensions. 52.691 Section 52.691 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) APPROVAL AND PROMULGATION OF IMPLEMENTATION PLANS Idaho § 52.691 Extensions. (a) The Administrator, by authority delegated...

  3. 15 CFR 291.4 - National industry-specific pollution prevention and environmental compliance resource centers.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... OF COMMERCE NIST EXTRAMURAL PROGRAMS MANUFACTURING EXTENSION PARTNERSHIP; ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECTS... information, NIST manufacturing extension efforts, EPA regulation and guidance, and state requirements. The... addition, consultants providing services to those businesses, the NIST Manufacturing Extension Centers, and...

  4. 15 CFR 291.4 - National industry-specific pollution prevention and environmental compliance resource centers.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... OF COMMERCE NIST EXTRAMURAL PROGRAMS MANUFACTURING EXTENSION PARTNERSHIP; ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECTS... information, NIST manufacturing extension efforts, EPA regulation and guidance, and state requirements. The... addition, consultants providing services to those businesses, the NIST Manufacturing Extension Centers, and...

  5. 15 CFR 291.4 - National industry-specific pollution prevention and environmental compliance resource centers.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... OF COMMERCE NIST EXTRAMURAL PROGRAMS MANUFACTURING EXTENSION PARTNERSHIP; ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECTS... information, NIST manufacturing extension efforts, EPA regulation and guidance, and state requirements. The... addition, consultants providing services to those businesses, the NIST Manufacturing Extension Centers, and...

  6. The effect of group-exercising on females with non-specific chronic low back pain in a sitting position: a pilot study.

    PubMed

    Beladev, Noa; Masharawi, Youssef

    2011-01-01

    The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of active group-exercising on women with non specific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP) in a sitting position. 25 females with NSCLBP underwent 8 group sitting-exercise sessions of a 45 minute duration, over an 8 week period. Pain intensity (VAS), back specific disability (Rolland Morris questionnaire-RMQ), and lumbar flexion and extension ranges of motion were measured twice, for reliability tests and cut-off score values, with a 1 week interval between measurements, prior to intervention and subsequently, six weeks following intervention. Several significant changes in outcome measures were indicated following intervention compared with baseline (p < 0.001): an increase in lumbar flexion and extension (mean differences of 6° for flexion and 4° for extension, cutoff score = 5.91°); reduction in VAS score (mean difference=4.21, cutoff score =4.48); an increase in RMQ total score (mean difference=10.76, cutoff score=8.15). Changes in the VAS score was highly correlated with changes in the RMQ score (r=- 6.35). A functional program of group-exercising conducted in a sitting position, improved the functional, painful status and lumbar ranges of motion in the sagittal plane of women suffering from non specific chronic low back pain. As sitting is considered the most common posture in today's workplace, applying this protocol during working hours would be very effective.

  7. [An oral function improvement program utilizing health behavior theories ameliorates oral functions and oral hygienic conditions of pre-frail elderly persons].

    PubMed

    Sakaguchi, Hideo

    2014-06-01

    Oral function improvement programs utilizing health behavior theories are considered to be effective in preventing the need for long-term social care. In the present study, an oral function improvement program based upon health behavior theories was designed, and its utility was assessed in 102 pre-frail elderly persons (33 males, 69 females, mean age: 76.9 +/- 5.7) considered to be in potential need of long-term social care and attending a long-term care prevention class in Sayama City, Saitama Prefecture, Japan. The degree of improvement in oral functions (7 items) and oral hygienic conditions (3 items) was assessed by comparing oral health before and after participation in the program. The results showed statistically significant improvements in the following oral functions: (1) lip functions (oral diadochokinesis, measured by the regularity of the repetition of the syllable "Pa"), (2) tongue functions, (3) tongue root motor skills (oral diadochokinesis, measured by the regularity of the repetition of the syllables "Ta" and "Ka"), (4) tongue extension/retraction, (5) side-to-side tongue movement functions, (6) cheek motor skills, and (7) repetitive saliva swallowing test (RSST). The following measures of oral hygiene also showed a statistically significant improvement: (1) debris on dentures or teeth, (2) coated tongue, and (3) frequency of oral cleaning. These findings demonstrated that an improvement program informed by health behavior theories is useful in improving oral functions and oral hygiene conditions.

  8. Promoting academic and social-emotional school readiness: the head start REDI program.

    PubMed

    Bierman, Karen L; Domitrovich, Celene E; Nix, Robert L; Gest, Scott D; Welsh, Janet A; Greenberg, Mark T; Blair, Clancy; Nelson, Keith E; Gill, Sukhdeep

    2008-01-01

    Forty-four Head Start classrooms were randomly assigned to enriched intervention (Head Start REDI-Research-based, Developmentally Informed) or "usual practice" conditions. The intervention involved brief lessons, "hands-on" extension activities, and specific teaching strategies linked empirically with the promotion of: (a) social-emotional competencies and (b) language development and emergent literacy skills. Take-home materials were provided to parents to enhance skill development at home. Multimethod assessments of three hundred and fifty-six 4-year-old children tracked their progress over the course of the 1-year program. Results revealed significant differences favoring children in the enriched intervention classrooms on measures of vocabulary, emergent literacy, emotional understanding, social problem solving, social behavior, and learning engagement. Implications are discussed for developmental models of school readiness and for early educational programs and policies.

  9. Organizational technologies of chronic disease management programs in large rural multispecialty group practice systems.

    PubMed

    Gamm, Larry; Bolin, Jane Nelson; Kash, Bita A

    2005-01-01

    Four large rural multispecialty group practice systems employ a mix of organizational technologies to provide chronic disease management with measurable impacts on their patient populations and costs. Four technologies-administrative, clinical, information, and social-are proposed as key dimensions for examining disease management programs. The benefits of disease management are recognized by these systems despite marked variability in the organization of the programs. Committees spanning health plans and clinics in the 4 systems and electronic medical records and/or other disease management information systems are important coordinating mechanisms. Increased reliance on nurses for patient education and care coordination in all 4 systems reflects significant extension of clinical and social technologies in the management of patient care. The promise of disease management as offered by these systems and other auspices are considered.

  10. Aligning and Elevating University-Based Low-Income Nutrition Education through the Land-Grant University Cooperative Extension System. National Report

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Schneider, Connie

    2014-01-01

    The nation's Land-Grant University Cooperative Extension System (LGU-CES) is committed to ensuring that low-income populations have a safe, affordable, and healthy food supply. Two low-income nutrition education programs that are core to this commitment are the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) and the Supplemental Nutrition…

  11. Modular space station phase B extension period executive summary

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Tischler, A. A.; Could, C. L.

    1972-01-01

    A narrative summary is presented of technical, programmatic, and planning information developed during the space station definition study extension period. The modular space station is emphasized, but tasks pertaining to shuttle sorties missions and information management advanced development are included. A series of program options considering technical, schedule, and programmatic alternatives to the baseline program are defined and evaluated.

  12. Piloting a Cooperative Extension Service Nutrition Education Program on First-Grade Children's Willingness to Try Foods Containing Legumes

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Edwards, Cassandra S.; Hermann, Janice R.

    2011-01-01

    Many nutrition education campaigns targeting children in the United States focus on increasing fruit and vegetable consumption, but most don't specifically promote legumes. The project described here sought to pilot the effect of an Extension nutrition education program on first grade children's willingness to try foods containing legumes. A…

  13. Regionalization of the Washington State University Extension 4-H Youth Development Program: Employee Awareness, Buy-In, and Communication

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    White, Alison J.; Teuteberg, Dan

    2015-01-01

    Washington's 4-H program is transitioning from a predominately single-county faculty model to a regional system. This article highlights survey results regarding the level of awareness and buy-in that Extension administration, faculty, and staff have concerning the regional model and how communication about the model took place. While most…

  14. Factors Influencing Rural Women Cassava Processors' Intention to Participate in an Agricultural Extension Education Program. Summary of Research 80.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ojomo, Christian O.; McCaslin, N. L.

    A study examined factors influencing female cassava processors' intentions regarding participation in an extension education program on cassava processing in rural Nigeria. Interviews were conducted with 224 women who were purposely selected from areas of zone 3 of Ondo State, Nigeria, which has large concentrations of cassava processors.…

  15. Identification of the Competencies Needed to Apply Social Marketing to Extension Programming: Results of a Delphi Study

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Warner, Laura A.; Stubbs, Eric; Murphrey, Theresa Pesl; Huynh, Phuong

    2016-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to identify the specific competencies needed to apply social marketing, a promising approach to behavior change, to Extension programming. A modified Delphi study was used to achieve group consensus among a panel of experts on the skills, characteristics, and knowledge needed to successfully apply this behavior change…

  16. Farmers' Participation in Extension Programs and Technology Adoption in Rural Nepal: A Logistic Regression Analysis

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Suvedi, Murari; Ghimire, Raju; Kaplowitz, Michael

    2017-01-01

    Purpose: This paper examines the factors affecting farmers' participation in extension programs and adoption of improved seed varieties in the hills of rural Nepal. Methodology/approach: Cross-sectional farm-level data were collected during July and August 2014. A sample of 198 farm households was selected for interviewing by using a multistage,…

  17. The Case for a Paradigm Shift in Extension from Information-Centric to Community-Centric Programming

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Strong, Emma; Rowntree, Jason; Thurlow, Kable; Raven, Matt R.

    2015-01-01

    Since its establishment through the Smith-Lever Act, the Cooperative Extension Service has sought to use non-formal education programs centered on community needs to provide research-based information. However, the onset of the information age has transformed the way knowledge is shared and as a result altered the way people access information.…

  18. Community Concerns and Extension Youth Programs. Proceedings Regional Conference (February 18-20, 1981). Publication 28.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    White, Leigh Cree, Ed.

    The 4-H/Community Resource Development workshop was designed to help people conducting Extension 4-H programs on sensitive and complex community issues improve their ability to create a better climate for discussion of alternatives and development of community projects. Topics of the presentations included the role of the 4-H administrator,…

  19. Social Media Use of Cooperative Extension Family Economics Educators: Online Survey Results and Implications

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    O'Neill, Barbara; Zumwalt, Andrew; Bechman, Janet

    2011-01-01

    This article describes results of an online survey conducted by the eXtension Financial Security for All (FSA) Community of Practice (CoP) to determine the social media capacity and activity of its members. The survey was conducted to inform two subsequent FSA CoP programs: an archived webinar on social media programs and impact evaluation methods…

  20. Marathon Month Promotes Healthful Lifestyles for Extension Employees

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Donaldson, Joseph L.; Bell, Beth A.; Toman, John J.; Hastings, Shirley

    2016-01-01

    This article describes Marathon Month, a workplace wellness program for Extension employees. The program promoted physical activity by challenging employees to walk or run the length of a marathon (26.2 mi) or half marathon (13.1 mi) over the course of 1 month. Of the 317 participants, 90% achieved a self-set goal of completing a full or half…

  1. Using iPads as a Data Collection Tool in Extension Programming Evaluation

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rowntree, J. E.; Witman, R. R.; Lindquist, G. L.; Raven, M. R.

    2013-01-01

    Program evaluation is an important part of Extension, especially with the increased emphasis on metrics and accountability. Agents are often the point persons for evaluation data collection, and Web-based surveys are a commonly used tool. The iPad tablet with Internet access has the potential to be an effective survey tool. iPads were field tested…

  2. 4-H Youth Development: The Past, the Present, and the Future

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Borden, Lynne M.; Perkins, Daniel F.; Hawkey, Kyle

    2014-01-01

    The 4-H Program within Cooperative Extension is more than 100 years old. As we celebrate 100 years of Cooperative Extension, the foundation built by the 4-H Program serves as grounds to meet the needs of today's youth. The diversity of the youth who participate continues to grow, families continue to become less traditional, potential…

  3. Concept of Fractal Dimension use of Multifractal Cloud Liquid Models Based on Real Data as Input to Monte Carlo Radiation Models

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Wiscombe, W.

    1999-01-01

    The purpose of this paper is discuss the concept of fractal dimension; multifractal statistics as an extension of this; the use of simple multifractal statistics (power spectrum, structure function) to characterize cloud liquid water data; and to understand the use of multifractal cloud liquid water models based on real data as input to Monte Carlo radiation models of shortwave radiation transfer in 3D clouds, and the consequences of this in two areas: the design of aircraft field programs to measure cloud absorptance; and the explanation of the famous "Landsat scale break" in measured radiance.

  4. Small Businessmen's Perceptions of University Extension.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Douglah, Mohammad A.; Dopp, Arvid D.

    A survey was made in Clark County, Wisconsin, of small businessmen's knowledge and perception of university extension. The businessmen appeared most knowledgeable about Extension programs offered through mass media, but less knowledgeable about local staff affiliation and relationship to the University of Wisconsin. They participated in Extension…

  5. Affecting Community Change: Involving "Pro Bono" Professionals as Extension Volunteers

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kelley, Diane T.; Culp, Ken, III

    2013-01-01

    "Pro bono" volunteers provide an effective means for Extension professionals to expand limited financial and human resources. Volunteers recruited from business settings can provide skills, abilities, expertise, leadership, and resources to Extension programs. Allowing professional volunteers to meet their desired leadership goals while…

  6. 76 FR 32967 - Proposed Extensions and Waivers: National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-06-07

    ... DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION [CFDA No. 84.326H] Proposed Extensions and Waivers: National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center AGENCY: Office of Special Education Programs, Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, Department of Education. ACTION: Notice of proposed extension of...

  7. 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.

  8. Minimizing pulling geometry errors in atomic force microscope single molecule force spectroscopy.

    PubMed

    Rivera, Monica; Lee, Whasil; Ke, Changhong; Marszalek, Piotr E; Cole, Daniel G; Clark, Robert L

    2008-10-01

    In atomic force microscopy-based single molecule force spectroscopy (AFM-SMFS), it is assumed that the pulling angle is negligible and that the force applied to the molecule is equivalent to the force measured by the instrument. Recent studies, however, have indicated that the pulling geometry errors can drastically alter the measured force-extension relationship of molecules. Here we describe a software-based alignment method that repositions the cantilever such that it is located directly above the molecule's substrate attachment site. By aligning the applied force with the measurement axis, the molecule is no longer undergoing combined loading, and the full force can be measured by the cantilever. Simulations and experimental results verify the ability of the alignment program to minimize pulling geometry errors in AFM-SMFS studies.

  9. Temperature measurement reliability and validity with thermocouple extension leads or changing lead temperature.

    PubMed

    Jutte, Lisa S; Long, Blaine C; Knight, Kenneth L

    2010-01-01

    Thermocouples' leads are often too short, necessitating the use of an extension lead. To determine if temperature measures were influenced by extension-lead use or lead temperature changes. Descriptive laboratory study. Laboratory. Experiment 1: 10 IT-21 thermocouples and 5 extension leads. Experiment 2: 5 IT-21 and PT-6 thermocouples. In experiment 1, temperature data were collected on 10 IT-21 thermocouples in a stable water bath with and without extension leads. In experiment 2, temperature data were collected on 5 IT-21 and PT-6 thermocouples in a stable water bath before, during, and after ice-pack application to extension leads. In experiment 1, extension leads did not influence IT-21 validity (P  =  .45) or reliability (P  =  .10). In experiment 2, postapplication IT-21 temperatures were greater than preapplication and application measures (P < .05). Extension leads had no influence on temperature measures. Ice application to leads may increase measurement error.

  10. Improving quality in Medicaid: the use of care management processes for chronic illness and preventive care.

    PubMed

    Rittenhouse, Diane R; Robinson, James C

    2006-01-01

    Care management processes (CMPs), tools to improve the efficiency and quality of primary care delivery, are particularly important for low-income patients facing substantial barriers to care. To measure the adoption of CMPs by medical groups, Independent Practice Associations, community clinics, and hospital-based clinics in California's Medicaid program and the factors associated with CMP adoption. Telephone survey of every provider organization with at least 6 primary care physicians and at least 1 Medi-Cal HMO contract, Spring 2003. One hundred twenty-three organizations participated, accounting for 64% of provider organizations serving Medicaid managed care in California. We surveyed 30 measures of CMP use for asthma and diabetes, and for child and adolescent preventive services. The mean number of CMPs used by each organization was 4.5 for asthma and 4.9 for diabetes (of a possible 8). The mean number of CMPs for preventive services was 4.0 for children and 3.5 for adolescents (of a possible 7). Organizations with more extensive involvement in Medi-Cal managed care used more CMPs for chronic illness and preventive service. Community clinics and hospital-based clinics used more CMPs for asthma and diabetes than did Independent Practice Associations (IPAs), and profitable organizations used more CMPs for child and adolescent preventive services than did entities facing severe financial constraints. The use of CMPs by Medicaid HMOs and the presence of external (financial and nonfinancial) incentives for clinical performance were strongly associated with use of care management by provider organizations. Physician and provider organizations heavily involved in California's Medicaid program are extensively engaged in preventive and chronic care management programs.

  11. Cooperative Extension Training Impact on Military Youth and 4-H Youth: The Case of Speak Out for Military Kids

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Edwin, James; McKinley, Steve; Talbert, B. Allen

    2010-01-01

    Extension needs new venues to promote their programming skills to unfamiliar audiences. One new audience Extension is currently reaching is military children. By partnering with Operation: Military Kids to offer a Speak Out for Military Kids training, Extension supports military children and document changes in the behavior of this audience.…

  12. Corn blight review: Sampling model and ground data measurements program

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Allen, R. D.

    1972-01-01

    The sampling plan involved the selection of the study area, determination of the flightline and segment sample design within the study area, and determination of a field sample design. Initial interview survey data consisting of crop species acreage and land use were collected. On all corn fields, additional information such as seed type, row direction, population, planting date, ect. were also collected. From this information, sample corn fields were selected to be observed through the growing season on a biweekly basis by county extension personnel.

  13. Measurement of Laser Weld Temperatures for 3D Model Input

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

    Dagel, Daryl; Grossetete, Grant; Maccallum, Danny O.

    Laser welding is a key joining process used extensively in the manufacture and assembly of critical components for several weapons systems. Sandia National Laboratories advances the understanding of the laser welding process through coupled experimentation and modeling. This report summarizes the experimental portion of the research program, which focused on measuring temperatures and thermal history of laser welds on steel plates. To increase confidence in measurement accuracy, researchers utilized multiple complementary techniques to acquire temperatures during laser welding. This data serves as input to and validation of 3D laser welding models aimed at predicting microstructure and the formation of defectsmore » and their impact on weld-joint reliability, a crucial step in rapid prototyping of weapons components.« less

  14. API REST Web service and backend system Of Lecturer’s Assessment Information System on Politeknik Negeri Bali

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Manuaba, I. B. P.; Rudiastini, E.

    2018-01-01

    Assessment of lecturers is a tool used to measure lecturer performance. Lecturer’s assessment variable can be measured from three aspects : teaching activities, research and community service. Broad aspect to measure the performance of lecturers requires a special framework, so that the system can be developed in a sustainable manner. Issues of this research is to create a API web service data tool, so the lecturer assessment system can be developed in various frameworks. The research was developed with web service and php programming language with the output of json extension data. The conclusion of this research is API web service data application can be developed using several platforms such as web, mobile application

  15. Extension Learners' Use of Electronic Technology

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Guenthner, Joseph F.; Swan, Benjamin G.

    2011-01-01

    Extension clientele use electronic technology for entertainment, communication, and business. Educational programs that use electronic technology can enhance learning. To learn more about use of electronic technology among Extension clientele, we surveyed 80 university students and 135 potato farmers. We found that the farmers were likely to use…

  16. Empirical Questionnaire Methods for Fund-Raising Campaign Preparedness in Extension

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Comley Adams, Catherine; Butler, Douglass A.

    2017-01-01

    Amid waning public financial support for Extension program offerings, highly strategic and professional fund-raising practices are necessary for gaining momentum among private philanthropists and closing the fiscal gap. University of Missouri Extension conducted a precampaign survey that invited feedback from stakeholders to inform Extension…

  17. Beginning Farmer Education in Iowa: Implications to Extension.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Trede, Larry D.

    1998-01-01

    Responses from 138 of 286 beginning Iowa farmers rated experiential learning, problem solving, and critical thinking as important skills. Cutting-edge technologies were preferred for extension program delivery, as well as verbal rather than printed information. Highly rated topics included business management of farming. Extension was well…

  18. Healthy Homes Tools

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Peek, Gina; Lyon, Melinda; Russ, Randall

    2012-01-01

    Extension is focusing on healthy homes programming. Extension educators are not qualified to diagnose consumers' medical problems as they relate to housing. We cannot give medical advice. Instead, we can help educate consumers about home conditions that may affect their well-being. Extension educators need appropriate healthy homes tools to…

  19. 7 CFR 2.66 - Administrator, Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... for research and extension to facilitate or expand production and marketing of aquacultural food... production and marketing of aquacultural species and products; conducting a program of research, extension... related to the distribution and marketing of agricultural products under the Agricultural Marketing Act of...

  20. University Extension and Urban Planning Programs: An Efficient Partnership.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kotval, Zenia

    2003-01-01

    The Urban Planning Practicum is a capstone course engaging Michigan State students in urban outreach, working with community organizations on neighborhood revitalization. It facilitates the experiential learning needs of urban planning students while assisting Extension staff in capacity building. Faculty-extension agent partnerships make it…

  1. Extension's Future: Time for Disruptive Innovation

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Franz, Nancy K.; Cox, Ronald A.

    2012-01-01

    Extension has been considered change averse by some scholars and practitioners, and they claim this inhibits organizational growth and relevance. Pockets of individuals and teams across the nation have worked independently as entrepreneurs to enhance Extension's relevance by introducing organizational processes and programs that greatly…

  2. Taxonomy for Assessing Evaluation Competencies in Extension

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rodgers, Michelle S.; Hillaker, Barbara D.; Haas, Bruce E.; Peters, Cheryl

    2012-01-01

    Evaluation of public service programming is becoming increasingly important with current funding realities. The taxonomy of evaluation competencies compiled by Ghere et al. (2006) provided the starting place for Taxonomy for Assessing Evaluation Competencies in Extension. The Michigan State University Extension case study described here presents a…

  3. Applications of Goal Programming to Education.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Van Dusseldorp, Ralph A.; And Others

    This paper discusses goal programming, a computer-based operations research technique that is basically a modification and extension of linear programming. The authors first discuss the similarities and differences between goal programming and linear programming, then describe the limitations of goal programming and its possible applications for…

  4. The evolution of Rare Pride: using evaluation to drive adaptive management in a biodiversity conservation organization.

    PubMed

    Jenks, Brett; Vaughan, Peter W; Butler, Paul J

    2010-05-01

    Rare Pride is a social marketing program that stimulates human behavior change in order to promote biodiversity conservation in critically threatened regions in developing countries. A series of formal evaluation studies, networking strategies, and evaluative inquiries have driven a 20-year process of adaptive management that has resulted in extensive programmatic changes within Pride. This paper describes the types of evaluation that Rare used to drive adaptive management and the changes it caused in Pride's theory-of-change and programmatic structure. We argue that (a) qualitative data gathered from partners and staff through structured interviews is most effective at identifying problems with current programs and procedures, (b) networking with other organizations is the most effective strategy for learning of new management strategies, and (c) quantitative data gathered through surveys is effective at measuring program impact and quality. Adaptive management has allowed Rare to increase its Pride program from implementing about two campaigns per year in 2001 to more than 40 per year in 2009 while improving program quality and maintaining program impact. Copyright 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. The New Digital [St]age: Barriers to the Adoption and Adaptation of New Technologies to Deliver Extension Programming and How to Address Them

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Seger, Jamie

    2011-01-01

    With the rise of social media and the need for statewide program cohesiveness, The Ohio State University Extension has the opportunity to position itself as a catalyst for technology adoption and adaptation nationwide. Unfortunately, many barriers exist to the successful use and implementation of technology, including an organizational structure…

  6. OTSEGO COUNTY EXPERIMENTAL PROGRAM FOR TESTING METHODS OF FORMING FARM MANAGEMENT STUDY GROUPS, A PROGRESS REPORT. EXTENSION STUDY, NUMBER 8.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    LONGEST, JAMES W.; GENGENBACK, WILLIAM H.

    THE MOST FREQUENT METHOD OF GROUP FORMATION FOR INTENSIVE FARM MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS IN NEW YORK STATE HAS BEEN TO COMBINE ALL INTERESTED FARMERS IN LARGE GROUPS AT THE COUNTY EXTENSION HEADQUARTERS. THIS EXPERIMENT WAS SET UP TO STUDY THE EFFECTIVENESS OF TWO METHODS OF FORMING SMALL GROUPS--BY SOCIOMETRIC CHOICE OR SIMILAR CHARACTERISTICS. ALL…

  7. Economic effectiveness of disease management programs: a meta-analysis.

    PubMed

    Krause, David S

    2005-04-01

    The economic effectiveness of disease management programs, which are designed to improve the clinical and economic outcomes for chronically ill individuals, has been evaluated extensively. A literature search was performed with MEDLINE and other published sources for the period covering January 1995 to September 2003. The search was limited to empirical articles that measured the direct economic outcomes for asthma, diabetes, and heart disease management programs. Of the 360 articles and presentations evaluated, only 67 met the selection criteria for meta-analysis, which included 32,041 subjects. Although some studies contained multiple measurements of direct economic outcomes, only one average effect size per study was included in the meta-analysis. Based on the studies included in the research, a meta-analysis provided a statistically significant answer to the question of whether disease management programs are economically effective. The magnitude of the observed average effect size for equally weighted studies was 0.311 (95% CI = 0.272-0.350). Statistically significant differences of effect sizes by study design, disease type and intensity of disease management program interventions were not found after a moderating variable, disease severity, was taken into consideration. The results suggest that disease management programs are more effective economically with severely ill enrollees and that chronic disease program interventions are most effective when coordinated with the overall level of disease severity. The findings can be generalized, which may assist health care policy makers and practitioners in addressing the issue of providing economically effective care for the growing number of individuals with chronic illness.

  8. An object oriented Python interface for atomistic simulations

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hynninen, T.; Himanen, L.; Parkkinen, V.; Musso, T.; Corander, J.; Foster, A. S.

    2016-01-01

    Programmable simulation environments allow one to monitor and control calculations efficiently and automatically before, during, and after runtime. Environments directly accessible in a programming environment can be interfaced with powerful external analysis tools and extensions to enhance the functionality of the core program, and by incorporating a flexible object based structure, the environments make building and analysing computational setups intuitive. In this work, we present a classical atomistic force field with an interface written in Python language. The program is an extension for an existing object based atomistic simulation environment.

  9. Understanding Tort Liability and Its Relationship to Extension Professionals.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Long, Norman D.; And Others

    This study focuses on tort liability and its relationship to extension professionals working with 4-H programs. Tort liability as related to extension professionals consists of ten components: due care, physical defects (inspection of premises), instruction and supervision, first aid and medical treatment, foreseeability, causation, defamation,…

  10. 76 FR 79703 - Notice of Submission for Extension of a Currently Approved Information Collection to OMB; Comment...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-12-22

    ... Special Claims Processing. Description of Information Collection: This is an extension of a currently... Extension of a Currently Approved Information Collection to OMB; Comment Request Applications for Housing Assistance Payments and Special Claims Processing AGENCY: Office of Program Systems Management. ACTION...

  11. Agricultural Extension Services and the Issue of Equity in Agricultural Development.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Monu, Erasmus D.

    1981-01-01

    Reviews experiments in Kenya and Nigeria attempting to modify the progressive-farmer strategy. Success requires that extension services recognize small farmers' ability to make their own rational decisions and involve farmers in planning and implementing extension programs. Available from: Rural Sociological Society, 325 Morgan Hall, University of…

  12. Effective Use of Facebook for Extension Professionals

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mains, Mark; Jenkins-Howard, Brooke; Stephenson, Laura

    2013-01-01

    As the use of social media increases, Extension is challenged to stay relevant with cliental by using digital tools. This article illustrates how Facebook can be part of Extension's repertoire of methods for communication, program implementation, education, and marketing. This allows professionals to build social networking capacity with…

  13. Women's Access to Agricultural Extension Services in Botswana.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bettles, F. M.

    Extension services to women in rural Botswana, particularly emphasized since the women's extension program began in 1975, must take into account constraints faced by female farmers, as past development processes have concentrated on male perceptions of concern (the beef industry, modernizing the economy). In Botswana, agriculture has traditionally…

  14. Community Health: FCS Extension Educators Deliver Diabetes Education in PA

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cox, Jill N.; Corbin, Marilyn

    2011-01-01

    For decades, family and consumer sciences (FCS) Extension educators have provided health related education to consumers through Cooperative Extension programming at land grant universities. However, offering diabetes education can be extra challenging due to the complicated nature of the disease and the multi-faceted treatment required. Faced with…

  15. A New Funding Model for Extension

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Brown, Paul W.; Otto, Daniel M.; Ouart, Michael D.

    2006-01-01

    The traditional funding model of the Cooperative Extension System has been stretched to its limits by increasing demand for information and programs without concurrent increases in funding by the public sector. As the social, economic, and political environments have evolved and become more complex, extension is often asked to apply the expertise…

  16. An Evaluation of Successful Collaboration among Agricultural Science Teachers and Extension Agents in Texas

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Murphrey, Theresa Pesl; Harlin, Julie F.; Rayfield, John

    2011-01-01

    The purpose of this research was to investigate collaboration between agricultural science teachers and Extension agents in Texas from the perspective of successful collaboration. Programs, leaders, and participants in both agricultural education and Extension can be impacted positively through collaboration. However, successful collaboration…

  17. An Online Resource Site for Extension Master Gardener Coordinators

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Langellotto, Gail Ann; Dorn, Sheri

    2016-01-01

    Developing an online resource site for Extension master gardener (EMG) coordinators is an ongoing project for Extension collaborators. Begun in 2014, the website includes peer-reviewed resources focused on best practices in volunteer management and program administration. The website is organized according to nine resource categories (e.g.,…

  18. 10 CFR 905.33 - Extension formula.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 10 Energy 4 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Extension formula. 905.33 Section 905.33 Energy DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY ENERGY PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT PROGRAM Power Marketing Initiative § 905.33 Extension formula. (a) The amount of power to be extended to an existing customer shall be determined according to...

  19. Defining and Developing Curricula in the Context of Cooperative Extension

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Smith, Martin H.; Worker, Steven M.; Meehan, Cheryl L.; Schmitt-McQuitty, Lynn; Ambrose, Andrea; Brian, Kelley; Schoenfelder, Emily

    2017-01-01

    Effective curricula are considered to be the cornerstone of successful programming in Extension. However, there is no universal operationalized definition of the term "curriculum" as it applies to Extension. Additionally, the development of curricula requires a systematic process that takes into account numerous factors. We provide an…

  20. 7 CFR 3400.22 - Merit review for education and extension activities.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 15 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Merit review for education and extension activities...) COOPERATIVE STATE RESEARCH, EDUCATION, AND EXTENSION SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE SPECIAL RESEARCH GRANTS PROGRAM Peer and Merit Review Arranged by Grantees § 3400.22 Merit review for education and...

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