Next Step for STEP

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

Wood, Claire; Bremner, Brenda

2013-08-09

The Siletz Tribal Energy Program (STEP), housed in the Tribe’s Planning Department, will hire a data entry coordinator to collect, enter, analyze and store all the current and future energy efficiency and renewable energy data pertaining to administrative structures the tribe owns and operates and for homes in which tribal members live. The proposed data entry coordinator will conduct an energy options analysis in collaboration with the rest of the Siletz Tribal Energy Program and Planning Department staff. An energy options analysis will result in a thorough understanding of tribal energy resources and consumption, if energy efficiency and conservation measuresmore » being implemented are having the desired effect, analysis of tribal energy loads (current and future energy consumption), and evaluation of local and commercial energy supply options. A literature search will also be conducted. In order to educate additional tribal members about renewable energy, we will send four tribal members to be trained to install and maintain solar panels, solar hot water heaters, wind turbines and/or micro-hydro.« less

Education in Basic Skills and Training for Productive Work

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Labarca, Guillermo

1998-09-01

The success of global policies and strategies aimed at training for productive work depends to a large extent on the level of development of basic skills among the work force and, likewise, training costs will vary according to the level of general preparation of those entering on the process. In view of the close relationship between the structure of the school system, the development of basic skills and actual training, different options are available to resolve imbalances between training for productive employment and previous basic education. Our conclusions are that training cannot replace basic education, that the process of technological change goes hand in hand with an increased demand for workers with a high level of education, that substituting training in specific skills for good basic education is not the most efficient option, and that one of the favorable effects of primary education is that it facilitates after- school training. This article seeks to identify certain dimensions of human resource training which are often overlooked in relation to both basic skills and specific training proper: namely, the imbalances existing between vocational training and previous education, and the options available for correcting them.

Advanced On-The-Job Training System: User’s Handbook (Sections 10-11). Volume 3

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-05-01

leWd 4. idsodity a ne bety position Quit This Plan Select Option: Z (i)d4L.-tti irman Ifrom List, ()nter Specific S, (q)uit ? I 10-2.-4 0 The AOTS...Print SUperviaima List q. Rit This Plans Select Option: S 10-44 STEP 6: SELECT THE SUPERVISION LIST OPTION. Enter 5 and press 3RETU 30 D RA FT AOTS...training is accomplished by the trainee completing an on-line CAI lesson , while for other tasks, knowledge training is accomplished off line by the trainee

The influence of an elective introductory clinical research course on pharmacy student interest in pursuing research-based careers.

PubMed

Overholser, Brian R; Foster, David R; Henry, Joshua R; Plake, Kimberly S; Sowinski, Kevin M

2010-11-10

To assess the impact of an elective clinical research course on second- and third-year pharmacy students' knowledge of clinical research methods, training programs, career options, and interest in pursuing postgraduate training. A 2-credit hour elective course in clinical research was designed that included lectures, discussions, workshops, and in-class presentations related to study design and implementation, protocol synthesis, research evaluation, ethical and legal considerations, data analysis, and professional opportunities involving clinical research. Learner knowledge of these topics was assessed using several methods, including 3 assignments related to research protocol, ethical documentation, and presentation. A survey instrument designed to evaluate the effect the course had on pharmacy students' knowledge of clinical research methods and interest in pursuing postgraduate training in clinical research was administered. Students who completed the elective had a greater level of familiarity with research-related topics, training options, and career opportunities (p < 0.05) and a greater interest in pursuing a career in clinical research (p < 0.05) than did students in a matched control group. Taking a 2-credit hour elective course in clinical research increased pharmacy students' interest in pursuing a career in clinical research.

Career choice, pathways and continuing professional development of dental nurses at one institution.

PubMed

Durkan, C; Belsi, A; Johnson, R; Gallagher, J

2012-07-27

To explore the career pathways and continuing professional development of dental nurses employed at one institution relative to the scope of practice. A questionnaire exploring career pathways and continuing professional development of dental nurses was compiled and delivered to clinical departments. Responses were entered onto SPSS v17 for analysis. Ninety-eight percent (n = 64) of available nurses responded to the questionnaire survey. Eighty percent (n = 51) of the dental nurses were aged between 25 and 44 years, and 95% (n = 61) were female. The ethnicity of the workforce varied; 58% (n = 37) were White and this consequently constituted the largest ethnic group in the workforce. The dental nurses reported that they chose their profession for a wide variety of reasons, the most common one being the opportunity to progress in the dental sector. Before commencing training 38% (n = 24) were aware of their options for progression; this increased subsequent to training with between 55% (n = 35) and 66% (n = 42), depending on the option, stating that they were aware of their options for progression. Eighty-three percent (n = 53) were trained in an additional skill and all of those who were not (n = 11) stated that they would like this training. Conscious sedation was the most frequently possessed additional skill and radiography was the additional skill in which the highest proportion would like to be trained. Personal satisfaction was the most significant factor affecting the willingness of the workforce to pursue career progression. The findings suggest that amongst dental nurses employed in one institution there is evidence that the majority benefit from continuing professional development opportunities, possess additional skills and are motivated to further their skills and progress in their careers.

Learning Together; part 2: training costs and health gain - a cost analysis.

PubMed

Cullen, Katherine; Riches, Wendy; Macaulay, Chloe; Spicer, John

2017-01-01

Learning Together is a complex educational intervention aimed at improving health outcomes for children and young people. There is an additional cost as two doctors are seeing patients together for a longer appointment than a standard general practice (GP) appointment. Our approach combines the impact of the training clinics on activity in South London in 2014-15 with health gain, using NICE guidance and standards to allow comparison of training options. Activity data was collected from Training Practices hosting Learning Together. A computer based model was developed to analyse the costs of the Learning Together intervention compared to usual training in a partial economic evaluation. The results of the model were used to value the health gain required to make the intervention cost effective. Data were returned for 363 patients booked into 61 clinics across 16 Training Practices. Learning Together clinics resulted in an increase in costs of £37 per clinic. Threshold analysis illustrated one child with a common illness like constipation needs to be well for two weeks, in one Practice hosting four training clinics for the clinics to be considered cost effective. Learning Together is of minimal training cost. Our threshold analysis produced a rubric that can be used locally to test cost effectiveness at a Practice or Programme level.

Child neurology: autism as a model: considerations for advanced training in behavioral child neurology.

PubMed

Jeste, Shafali S; Friedman, Sandra L; Urion, David K

2009-09-01

In this article, we advocate for advanced training for child neurologists in behavior and development in order to facilitate the investigation of childhood behavioral and neurodevelopmental disabilities, with autism serving as a model disorder. We explore the current training options and then propose alternative subspecialty training options that focus on behavior and development, with appreciation that most developmental disabilities are not static encephalopathies but, rather, dynamic processes representing the influence of genetics and environment on neural circuitry.

Impact of Residency Training Redesign on Residents' Clinical Knowledge.

PubMed

Waller, Elaine; Eiff, M Patrice; Dexter, Eve; Rinaldo, Jason C B; Marino, Miguel; Garvin, Roger; Douglass, Alan B; Phillips, Robert; Green, Larry A; Carney, Patricia A

2017-10-01

The In-training Examination (ITE) is a frequently used method to evaluate family medicine residents' clinical knowledge. We compared family medicine ITE scores among residents who trained in the 14 programs that participated in the Preparing the Personal Physician for Practice (P4) Project to national averages over time, and according to educational innovations. The ITE scores of 802 consenting P4 residents who trained in 2007 through 2011 were obtained from the American Board of Family Medicine. The primary analysis involved comparing scores within each academic year (2007 through 2011), according to program year (PGY) for P4 residents to all residents nationally. A secondary analysis compared ITE scores among residents in programs that experimented with length of training and compared scores among residents in programs that offered individualized education options with those that did not. Release of ITE scores was consented to by 95.5% of residents for this study. Scores of P4 residents were higher compared to national scores in each year. For example, in 2011, the mean P4 score for PGY1 was 401.2, compared to the national average of 386. For PGY2, the mean P4 score was 443.1, compared to the national average of 427, and for PGY3, the mean P4 score was 477.0, compared to the national PGY3 score of 456. Scores of residents in programs that experimented with length of training were similar to those in programs that did not. Scores were also similar between residents in programs with and without individualized education options. Family medicine residency programs undergoing substantial educational changes, including experiments in length of training and individualized education, did not appear to experience a negative effect on resident's clinical knowledge, as measured by ITE scores. Further research is needed to study the effect of a wide range of residency training innovations on ITE scores over time.

Acute Effects of Two Different Resistance Circuit Training Protocols on Performance and Perceived Exertion in Semiprofessional Basketball Players.

PubMed

Freitas, Tomás T; Calleja-González, Julio; Alarcón, Francisco; Alcaraz, Pedro E

2016-02-01

This study aimed to investigate the acute effects of two different resistance circuit training protocols on basketball players' physical and technical performance and rating of perceived exertion (RPE). In a repeated-measures, crossover experimental design, 9 semiprofessional basketball players performed a Power Circuit Training (PCT; 45% 1RM) and a High-Resistance Circuit Training (HRC; 6RM), on consecutive weeks. Vertical and horizontal jump performance, 3-points shooting accuracy, repeated-sprint ability (RSA), agility, and upper body power output were measured before and after training. The RPE was assessed 20 minutes after resistance training. One-way repeated-measures analysis of variance showed performance decrements in vertical jump height and peak power, horizontal jump distance, 3-points percentage, bench-press power output, RSA total and ideal time, and agility T-Test at total time following HRC, but not PCT (p ≤ 0.05). The RPE was higher in HRC compared with PCT. The results of this study indicated that HRC was perceived as being harder and produced higher fatigue levels, which in turn lowered acute performance. However, low-to-moderate intensity loads did not negatively affect performance. Thus, completing a PCT session may be the most appropriate option before a practice or game as it avoids acute-resistance-training-induced performance decrements. However, if the objective of the basketball session is to develop or perfect technical skills during fatiguing conditions, HRC may be the more suitable option.

Working with interpreters: The challenges of introducing Option Grid patient decision aids.

PubMed

Wood, Fiona; Phillips, Katie; Edwards, Adrian; Elwyn, Glyn

2017-03-01

We aimed to observe how an Option Grid™ decision aid for clinical encounters might be used where an interpreter is present, and to assess the impact of its use on shared decision making. Data were available from three clinical consultations between patient, clinician (a physiotherapist), and interpreter about knee osteoarthritis. Clinicians were trained in the use of an Option Grid decision aid and the tool was used. Consultations were audio-recorded, transcribed, and translated by independent translators into English. Analysis revealed the difficulties with introducing a written decision aid into an interpreted consultation. The extra discussion needed between the clinician and interpreter around the principles and purpose of shared decision making and instructions regarding the Option Grid decision aid proved challenging and difficult to manage. Discussion of treatment options while using an Option Grid decision aid was predominantly done between clinician and interpreter. The patient appeared to have little involvement in discussion of treatment options. Patients were not active participants within the discussion. Further work needs to be done on how shared decision making can be achieved within interpreted consultations. Option Grid decision aids are not being used as intended in interpreted consultations. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

The Whole PIC Catalog: Organization, Planning and Service Delivery Options under JTPA.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Alliance of Business, Inc., Washington, DC.

This handbook illustrates and discusses organizational options for the delivery of employment and training services within service delivery areas (SDAs) mandated by the Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) of 1982. Addressed primarily to members of private industry councils (PICs), representatives of local governments, and employment and training…

Cost Benefit Analysis of Expeditionary Warfare Training Group Atlantic Forward Air Controller / Joint Terminal Attack Controller Training Options

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-03-13

Previous versions were signed in 2004, 2007, and 2010. The most recent version was signed 1 January 2012 by HQMC PPO and includes 17 United States DoD and...Amos) to Cdr USJFCOM - 21 Mar 2008 From CMC PPO POG: Ground Board discussion Collateral Duties of JTAC not compatible with primary duties MSG dtd...EWTGLANT Trng Cmd PPO APP MCSCG MARFORCOM USFFC CNAL CSFWL SFWSL CVW-X CVW-X OPNAV N-98 II MEF 2D MARDIV 2D MAW OPNAV N-95 NAWCTSD

Mapping public policy options responding to obesity: the case of Spain.

PubMed

González-Zapata, L I; Ortiz-Moncada, R; Alvarez-Dardet, C

2007-05-01

This study assesses the opinions of the main Spanish stakeholders from food and physical exercise policy networks on public policy options for responding to obesity. We followed the multi-criteria mapping methodology in the framework of the European project 'Policy options in responding to obesity' (PorGrow), through a structured interview to 21 stakeholders. A four-step approach was taken: options, criteria, scoring and weighting, obtaining in this way a measure of the performance of each option which integrates qualitative and quantitative information. In an overall analysis, the more popular policy options where those grouped as educational initiatives: include food and health in the school curriculum, improve health education to the general public, improve the training of health professionals in obesity care and prevention, incentives to caterers to provide healthier menus and improve community sports facilities. Fiscal measures as subsidies and taxes had the lowest support. The criteria assessed as priorities were grouped as efficacy and societal benefits. Obesity in Spain can be approached through public policies, although the process will not be easy or immediate. The feasibility of changes requires concerned public policymakers developing long-term actions taking into account the map of prioritized options by the stakeholders.

Vocational Options for Deaf-Blind Youth Through Community-Based Training. Project ADVANCE.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McGinnity, Betsy L.

Project ADVANCE currently provides vocational training to 26 deaf-blind adolescents and young adults attending Perkins School for the Blind in Watertown, Massachusetts. The project has developed community work sites in four different vocational options: (1) competitive employment, (2) a student operated small business, (3) sheltered enclave within…

Development of a simulation model for dynamic derailment analysis of high-speed trains

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ling, Liang; Xiao, Xin-Biao; Jin, Xue-Song

2014-12-01

The running safety of high-speed trains has become a major concern of the current railway research with the rapid development of high-speed railways around the world. The basic safety requirement is to prevent the derailment. The root causes of the dynamic derailment of high-speed trains operating in severe environments are not easy to identify using the field tests or laboratory experiments. Numerical simulation using an advanced train-track interaction model is a highly efficient and low-cost approach to investigate the dynamic derailment behavior and mechanism of high-speed trains. This paper presents a three-dimensional dynamic model of a high-speed train coupled with a ballast track for dynamic derailment analysis. The model considers a train composed of multiple vehicles and the nonlinear inter-vehicle connections. The ballast track model consists of rails, fastenings, sleepers, ballasts, and roadbed, which are modeled by Euler beams, nonlinear spring-damper elements, equivalent ballast bodies, and continuous viscoelastic elements, in which the modal superposition method was used to reduce the order of the partial differential equations of Euler beams. The commonly used derailment safety assessment criteria around the world are embedded in the simulation model. The train-track model was then used to investigate the dynamic derailment responses of a high-speed train passing over a buckled track, in which the derailment mechanism and train running posture during the dynamic derailment process were analyzed in detail. The effects of train and track modelling on dynamic derailment analysis were also discussed. The numerical results indicate that the train and track modelling options have a significant effect on the dynamic derailment analysis. The inter-vehicle impacts and the track flexibility and nonlinearity should be considered in the dynamic derailment simulations.

Application of Real Options Theory to DoD Software Acquisitions

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-08-01

words.) The traditional real options valuation methodology, when enhanced and properly formulated around a proposed or existing software investment...Std 239-18 - ii - THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK - iii - Abstract The traditional real options valuation ...founder and CEO of Real Options Valuation , Inc., a consulting, training, and software development firm specializing in strategic real options

Workstation table crashworthiness tests

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-12-31

This report describes results from the Option C component of a research program aimed at improving crashworthiness of passenger train workstation tables. Research conducted in the Base, Option A, and Option B components of the program was focused on ...

Developing Point-of-Decision Prompts to Encourage Airport Walking: The Walk to Fly Study.

PubMed

Frederick, Ginny M; Paul, Prabasaj; Bachtel Watson, Kathleen; Dorn, Joan M; Fulton, Janet

2016-04-01

Point-of-decision prompts may be appropriate to promote walking, instead of using a mechanized mode of transport, such as a train, in airports. To our knowledge, no current studies describe the development of messages for prompts in this setting. In-person interviews were conducted with 150 randomly selected airport travelers who rode the train to their departure gate. Travelers reported various reasons for riding the train to their gate. They were asked about messages that would encourage them to walk. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted for reasons for riding the train. Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted for messages to encourage walking to the departure gate. Travelers reported not knowing walking was an option (23.8%), seeing others riding the train (14.4%), and being afraid of getting lost (9.2%) as reasons for riding the train. Many indicated that directional signs and prompts promoting walking as exercise would encourage them to walk instead of riding the train. Some reasons for riding the train in an airport may be modifiable by installing point-of-decision prompts. Providing directional signs to travelers may prompt them to walk to their gate instead of riding the train. Similar prompts may also be considered in other community settings.

Developing Point-of-Decision Prompts to Encourage Airport Walking: The Walk to Fly Study

PubMed Central

Frederick, Ginny M.; Paul, Prabasaj; Watson, Kathleen Bachtel; Dorn, Joan M.; Fulton, Janet

2017-01-01

Background Point-of-decision prompts may be appropriate to promote walking, instead of using a mechanized mode of transport, such as a train, in airports. To our knowledge, no current studies describe the development of messages for prompts in this setting. Methods In-person interviews were conducted with 150 randomly selected airport travelers who rode the train to their departure gate. Travelers reported various reasons for riding the train to their gate. They were asked about messages that would encourage them to walk. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted for reasons for riding the train. Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted for messages to encourage walking to the departure gate. Results Travelers reported not knowing walking was an option (23.8%), seeing others riding the train (14.4%), and being afraid of getting lost (9.2%) as reasons for riding the train. Many indicated that directional signs and prompts promoting walking as exercise would encourage them to walk instead of riding the train. Conclusions Some reasons for riding the train in an airport may be modifiable by installing point-of-decision prompts. Providing directional signs to travelers may prompt them to walk to their gate instead of riding the train. Similar prompts may also be considered in other community settings. PMID:26445371

5 CFR 410.203 - Options for developing employees.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 5 Administrative Personnel 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Options for developing employees. 410.203... Planning and Evaluating Training § 410.203 Options for developing employees. Agencies may use a full range of options to meet their mission-related organizational and employee development needs, such as...

Dual and parallel postdoctoral training programs: implications for the osteopathic medical profession.

PubMed

Burkhart, Diane N; Lischka, Terri A

2011-04-01

Students in colleges of osteopathic medicine have several options when considering postdoctoral training programs. In addition to training programs approved solely by the American Osteopathic Association or accredited solely by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), students can pursue programs accredited by both organizations (ie, dually accredited programs) or osteopathic programs that occur side-by-side with ACGME programs (ie, parallel programs). In the present article, we report on the availability and growth of these 2 training options and describe their benefits and drawbacks for trainees and the osteopathic medical profession as a whole.

The effectiveness of competency-based education in equipping primary health care workers to manage chronic disease in Australian general practice settings.

PubMed

Glasgow, Nicholas J; Wells, Robert; Butler, James; Gear, Anna

2008-04-21

To review the literature on the effectiveness of competency-based education (CBE) as a means of equipping the Australian general practice workforce to deliver optimal chronic disease outcomes to articulate policy options for the Australian context. Systematic review of the literature (1991-2005) using a narrative approach followed by analysis of the findings using the actors/context/ processes/content framework of Buse et al. Few high-quality studies were identified. National policy options include incorporating clear statements about education and training, research and evaluation in any policy document targeting chronic disease; and provision of funding to enhance general practice teaching facilities and/or facilitate the development of supportive coordinating and administrative structures for training practices. Designers of CBE should consider five key questions: Are the educational objectives of the CBE clearly aligned with the chronic disease or workforce-related outcomes of interest? Is the design of the CBE sound? Have similar educational programs targeting the same outcomes been identified and every attempt made to maximise synergies between programs? Are the educational designers fully aware of and working within the existing complexity of the training environment? Are all involved in the program actively managing the process of change? Policy options range from those relatively simple and achievable to more complex and difficult. The full report is available at http://www.anu.edu.au/aphcri/Domain/Workforce/final_25_glasgow.pdf.

An Investigation of Consulting-Training; as a Part-Time or Ultimate Career Option for Business Educators and Their Graduates.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Church, Olive D.

A study examined the feasibility of consulting-training as a career option for business professionals. Data were gathered from a mail survey completed by a total of 60 firms in Arizona and Colorado and also from interviews, the investigator's participation and collaboration experiences with consultants, and a comparison of the literature on…

Missouri Customized Training Program. Skills for Tomorrow's Work Force. Brochure #80238.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Missouri State Div. of Job Development and Training, Jefferson City.

This publication provides businesses with information on the Missouri Customized Training Program (MCTP), which provides assistance to Missouri businesses in recruiting, training, and retraining of workers. It describes the two types of MCTP training: Skill Training and On-the-Job Training. Employee recruitment options are also discussed. Four…

Use of the Generating Options for Active Risk Control (GO-ARC) Technique can lead to more robust risk control options.

PubMed

Card, Alan J; Simsekler, Mecit Can Emre; Clark, Michael; Ward, James R; Clarkson, P John

2014-01-01

Risk assessment is widely used to improve patient safety, but healthcare workers are not trained to design robust solutions to the risks they uncover. This leads to an overreliance on the weakest category of risk control recommendations: administrative controls. Increasing the proportion of non-administrative risk control options (NARCOs) generated would enable (though not ensure) the adoption of more robust solutions. Experimentally assess a method for generating stronger risk controls: The Generating Options for Active Risk Control (GO-ARC) Technique. Participants generated risk control options in response to two patient safety scenarios. Scenario 1 (baseline): All participants used current practice (unstructured brainstorming). Scenario 2: Control group used current practice; intervention group used the GO-ARC Technique. To control for individual differences between participants, analysis focused on the change in the proportion of NARCOs for each group. Proportion of NARCOs decreased from 0.18 at baseline to 0.12. Intervention group: Proportion increased from 0.10 at baseline to 0.29 using the GO-ARC Technique. Results were statistically significant. There was no decrease in the number of administrative controls generated by the intervention group. The Generating Options for Active Risk Control (GO-ARC) Technique appears to lead to more robust risk control options.

Weapons of mass destruction in the developing world. What are the operational options. Final report

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

Minner, D.K.

1992-06-19

The proliferation in quantity and quality of weapons of mass destruction serve as a threat of great consequence to U.S. operational forces. Operational options for action are explored within the national military strategy concepts of forward presence, deterrence, and crisis/regional contingency response. Three questions and associated issues related to operational art are posed for each concept: (1) what condition must be produced to achieve the strategic goal, (2) what events will most likely result in the desired condition, and (3) how should resources be applied to produce those events. The resulting analysis offers the following conclusions: (1) complementary efforts bymore » all instruments of national power--political, diplomatic, economic, and military--are necessary; (2) knowledge, training, and equipment are the first line of defense; (3) persuasion as well as confrontation is necessary; (4) effective deterrence requires capability, credibility, and communication; and (5) training and weapons for retaliation-in-kind remain the final alternative.« less

Cockpit Resource Management (CRM) and human factors training: What Air New Zealand is doing about it

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Scott-Milligan, Fionna; Wyness, Bryan

1987-01-01

The authors have played an integral role in Air New Zealand's evaluation of CRM and Human Factors training options available to date. As the final decision as to which course is best suited to Air New Zealand's needs has yet to be made, briefly outlined are: (1) why this form of training was considered necessary; (2) the approach taken to evaluating the options available; (3) some of the problems encountered on the way; and (4) some plans for the future.

Flight operations payload training for crew and support personnel. Task 3: Inflight operations and training for payloads

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Beardslee, R. F.

1976-01-01

Various degrees of Commander/Pilot involvement in on-orbit operation of payloads are examined. Constraints and limitations resulting from their participation or affecting their ability to participate are identified. Four options, each representing a different set of involvement depths and concepts are analyzed. Options identified are boundaries around extremes in Commander/Pilot payload involvement. Real world choices may fall somewhere in between, but for the purposes of this study the options as represented provide a matrix from which logical and practical decisions can be made about crew participation in payload operations.

45 CFR 1306.23 - Training.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 45 Public Welfare 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Training. 1306.23 Section 1306.23 Public Welfare... STAFFING REQUIREMENTS AND PROGRAM OPTIONS Head Start Program Staffing Requirements § 1306.23 Training. (a) Head Start grantees must provide pre-service training and in-service training opportunities to program...

Army Contracting: Training and Guidance Needed to Ensure Appropriate Use of the Option to Extend Services Clause

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-01-28

reproduce this material separately. The Government Accountability Office, the audit , evaluation, and investigative arm of...Executive Director Army Contracting Command-Redstone Arsenal Army Contracting: Training and Guidance Needed to Ensure Appropriate Use of the Option to...which this report is based in accordance with generally accepted government auditing standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the

Fact Sheet on Training and Exam Options for Pesticide Applicators

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

New pesticide label requirements for training protect applicators, other fumigant handlers and bystanders from soil fumigant exposures. Find criteria details and content check list for approval of training programs.

FVB Energy Inc. Technical Assistance Project

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

DeSteese, John G.

2011-05-17

The request made by FVB asked for advice and analysis regarding the value of recapturing the braking energy of trains operating on electric light rail transit systems. A specific request was to evaluate the concept of generating hydrogen by electrolysis. The hydrogen would, in turn, power fuel cells that could supply electric energy back into the system for train propulsion or, possibly, also to the grid. To allow quantitative assessment of the potential resource, analysis focused on operations of the SoundTransit light rail system in Seattle, Washington. An initial finding was that the full cycle efficiency of producing hydrogen asmore » the medium for capturing and reusing train braking energy was quite low (< 20%) and, therefore, not likely to be economically attractive. As flywheel energy storage is commercially available, the balance of the analysis focused the feasibility of using this alternative on the SoundTransit system. It was found that an investment in a flywheel with a 25-kWh capacity of the type manufactured by Beacon Power Corporation (BPC) would show a positive 20-year net present value (NPV) based on the current frequency of train service. The economic attractiveness of this option would increase initially if green energy subsidies or rebates were applicable and, in the future, as the planned frequency of train service grows.« less

Adaptive locomotor training on an end-effector gait robot: evaluation of the ground reaction forces in different training conditions.

PubMed

Tomelleri, Christopher; Waldner, Andreas; Werner, Cordula; Hesse, Stefan

2011-01-01

The main goal of robotic gait rehabilitation is the restoration of independent gait. To achieve this goal different and specific patterns have to be practiced intensively in order to stimulate the learning process of the central nervous system. The gait robot G-EO Systems was designed to allow the repetitive practice of floor walking, stair climbing and stair descending. A novel control strategy allows training in adaptive mode. The force interactions between the foot and the ground were analyzed on 8 healthy volunteers in three different conditions: real floor walking on a treadmill, floor walking on the gait robot in passive mode, floor walking on the gait robot in adaptive mode. The ground reaction forces were measured by a Computer Dyno Graphy (CDG) analysis system. The results show different intensities of the ground reaction force across all of the three conditions. The intensities of force interactions during the adaptive training mode are comparable to the real walking on the treadmill. Slight deviations still occur in regard to the timing pattern of the forces. The adaptive control strategy comes closer to the physiological swing phase than the passive mode and seems to be a promising option for the treatment of gait disorders. Clinical trials will validate the efficacy of this new option in locomotor therapy on the patients. © 2011 IEEE

Hiring and Training Lifeguards.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hunsucker, John

1993-01-01

Discusses options for the hiring, testing, training, and supervision of lifeguards. Stresses the responsibility of camp directors in hiring properly trained lifeguards to ensure camper safety. Includes a precamp screening test of lifeguard knowledge and skills. (LP)

5 CFR 410.203 - Options for developing employees.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... Planning and Evaluating Training § 410.203 Options for developing employees. Agencies may use a full range...-development activities, coaching, mentoring, career development counseling, details, rotational assignments...

5 CFR 410.203 - Options for developing employees.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... Planning and Evaluating Training § 410.203 Options for developing employees. Agencies may use a full range...-development activities, coaching, mentoring, career development counseling, details, rotational assignments...

5 CFR 410.203 - Options for developing employees.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... Planning and Evaluating Training § 410.203 Options for developing employees. Agencies may use a full range...-development activities, coaching, mentoring, career development counseling, details, rotational assignments...

5 CFR 410.203 - Options for developing employees.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... Planning and Evaluating Training § 410.203 Options for developing employees. Agencies may use a full range...-development activities, coaching, mentoring, career development counseling, details, rotational assignments...

Options for Restructuring the Federal Employment and Training System. Hearing before the Employment, Housing, and Aviation Subcommittee of the Committee on Government Operations, House of Representatives, One Hundred Third Congress, First Session.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Congress of the U. S., Washington, DC. House Committee on Government Operations.

These Congressional hearings contain testimony regarding options for restructuring the federal employment and training system. Representatives of the following agencies and organizations provided testimony at the hearings: National Commission on Employment Policy; Health, Education and Human Services Division, Education and Employment Issues, U.S.…

Reasons and motivations for the option of an engineering career in Portugal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dias, Diana

2011-08-01

Towards the end of their secondary education, students face significant pressures in their decision about their career plan. These pressures are internal and external, personal and social, individual and from the reference group. This paper aims at understanding the reasons driving engineering students' choices, their perceived needs and aspirations. Moreover, it discusses how, in that process, students are constrained by family and friends and are conditioned by factors such as their socioeconomic and cultural background, employability prospects and gender. The construction of a career map/plan and the reasons and motivations for the option of an engineering career are reviewed, based on the qualitative analysis of students' discourses. The data indicate the relevance of several criteria such as social status, intelligence, gender, competences, values and interests in the construction of career aspirations. All these levels are highly influenced by self-esteem, which is closely related to the social value of training options and career paths.

Flexible Reporting Options for Skilled Child Abuse Professionals.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Finkelhor, David; Zellman, Gail L.

1991-01-01

Proposed is a system of flexible options for the mandated reporting of child abuse and neglect, to improve compliance with and reduce burdens on the child protective system. Potential benefits and drawbacks of the plan, which would identify and train "registered reporters" and offer the option of explicit deferred investigation, are…

Individualized exergame training improves postural control in advanced degenerative spinocerebellar ataxia: A rater-blinded, intra-individually controlled trial.

PubMed

Schatton, Cornelia; Synofzik, Matthis; Fleszar, Zofia; Giese, Martin A; Schöls, Ludger; Ilg, Winfried

2017-06-01

Treatment options are rare in degenerative ataxias, especially in advanced, multisystemic disease. Exergame training might offer a novel treatment strategy, but its effectiveness has not been investigated in advanced stages. We examined the effectiveness of a 12-week home-based training with body-controlled videogames in 10 young subjects with advanced degenerative ataxia unable or barely able to stand. Training was structured in two 6-weeks phases, allowing to adapt the training according to individual training progress. Rater-blinded clinical assessment (Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia; SARA), individual goal-attainment scoring (GAS), and quantitative movement analysis were performed two weeks before training, immediately prior to training, and after training phases 1 and 2 (intra-individual control design). This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02874911). After intervention, ataxia symptoms were reduced (SARA -2.5 points, p < 0.01), with benefits correlating to the amount of training (p = 0.04). Goal attainment during daily living was higher than expected (GAS: 0.45). Movement analysis revealed reduced body sway while sitting (p < 0.01), which correlated with improvements in SARA posture and gait (p = 0.005), indicating training-induced improvements in posture control mechanisms. This study provides first evidence that, even in advanced stages, subjects with degenerative ataxia may benefit from individualized training, with effects translating into daily living and improving underlying control mechanisms. The proposed training strategy can be performed at home, is motivating and facilitates patient self-empowerment. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Empowering self-defense training.

PubMed

Thompson, Martha E

2014-03-01

The purpose of self-defense training is to expand people's options, yet it is often framed as a solely physical, and limiting, response to violence. I draw on my own experience as a self-defense instructor and that of others in the self-defense movement to argue that an empowerment approach to self-defense training contributes to the anti-violence movement in multiple ways: providing a pathway to increase women's and girls' safety and their potential for becoming powerful and effective social change agents right now, providing an informed and embodied understanding of violence, and offering comprehensive options to recognize, prevent, and interrupt violence.

An instrument to assess subjective task value beliefs regarding the decision to pursue postgraduate training.

PubMed

Hagemeier, Nicholas E; Murawski, Matthew M

2014-02-12

To develop and validate an instrument to assess subjective ratings of the perceived value of various postgraduate training paths followed using expectancy-value as a theoretical framework; and to explore differences in value beliefs across type of postgraduate training pursued and type of pharmacy training completed prior to postgraduate training. A survey instrument was developed to sample 4 theoretical domains of subjective task value: intrinsic value, attainment value, utility value, and perceived cost. Retrospective self-report methodology was employed to examine respondents' (N=1,148) subjective task value beliefs specific to their highest level of postgraduate training completed. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analytic techniques were used to evaluate and validate value belief constructs. Intrinsic, attainment, utility, cost, and financial value constructs resulted from exploratory factor analysis. Cross-validation resulted in a 26-item instrument that demonstrated good model fit. Differences in value beliefs were noted across type of postgraduate training pursued and pharmacy training characteristics. The Postgraduate Training Value Instrument demonstrated evidence of reliability and construct validity. The survey instrument can be used to assess value beliefs regarding multiple postgraduate training options in pharmacy and potentially inform targeted recruiting of individuals to those paths best matching their own value beliefs.

Underinvestment in Employer Training: A Mandate to Spend? Invited Reaction: Employer Training--Is a Mandated Tax the Only Solution?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bishop, John H.; Lynch, Lisa M.

1993-01-01

Using the example of France, Bishop recommends a U.S. training mandate involving a training tax and incentives. Lynch argues that a broader array of options is needed to meet the training needs of new workers, displaced workers, and the unemployed. (SK)

Resources for States and Tribes about Soil Fumigant Training

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

State and tribal agencies may seek EPA approval to provide pesticide applicators with an alternative to registrant-sponsored training. Find guidance on seeking approval, check lists for training options, and the NASDARF soil fumigation manual.

[Arm rehabilitation : Current concepts and therapeutic options].

PubMed

Platz, T; Schmuck, L

2016-10-01

Arm paralysis after a stroke is a major cause of impairment. Presentation of therapeutic options and the efficacy in arm rehabilitation after stroke. Based on a systematic critical appraisal of randomized controlled trials (RCT) the therapeutic procedures for arm paralysis after stroke in the context of their effectiveness are introduced, including robotic therapy, mirror therapy, constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT), arm basis training, arm ability training, neuromuscular electrical stimulation, bilateral and task-specific training, mental training and transcranial stimulation techniques, such as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Several therapeutic procedures with proven efficacy are currently available for arm rehabilitation after stroke. Their differential indications are presented and associated with conclusions for clinical practice.

Information Technology Training within Traineeships: Options for TAFE-Based Courses.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hall, W.; And Others

A study explored ways in which traineeship courses could be designed to include training in information technology. The skills and performance standards required of information technology training in the printing, tourism, banking, construction, and computer industries were identified. Next, the current provision of such training in Australia and…

Live Fire Range Environmental Assessment

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

None

1993-08-01

The Central Training Academy (CTA) is a DOE Headquarters Organization located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, with the mission to effectively and efficiently educate and train personnel involved in the protection of vital national security interests of DOE. The CTA Live Fire Range (LFR), where most of the firearms and tactical training occurs, is a complex separate from the main campus. The purpose of the proposed action is to expand the LFR to allow more options of implementing required training. The Department of Energy has prepared this Environmental Assessment (EA) for the proposed construction and operation of an expanded Live Firemore » Range Facility at the Central Training Academy in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Based on the analysis in the EA, DOE has determined that the proposed action is not a major Federal action significantly affecting the quality of the human environment, within the meaning of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969. Therefore, the preparation of an environmental impact statement is not required and DOE is issuing this Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI).« less

The effect of exercise training on cutaneous microvascular reactivity: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Lanting, Sean M; Johnson, Nathan A; Baker, Michael K; Caterson, Ian D; Chuter, Vivienne H

2017-02-01

This study aimed to review the efficacy of exercise training for improving cutaneous microvascular reactivity in response to local stimulus in human adults. Systematic review with meta-analysis. A systematic search of Medline, Cinahl, AMED, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase was conducted up to June 2015. Included studies were controlled trials assessing the effect of an exercise training intervention on cutaneous microvascular reactivity as instigated by local stimulus such as local heating, iontophoresis and post-occlusive reactive hyperaemia. Studies where the control was only measured at baseline or which included participants with vasospastic disorders were excluded. Two authors independently reviewed and selected relevant controlled trials and extracted data. Quality was assessed using the Downs and Black checklist. Seven trials were included, with six showing a benefit of exercise training but only two reaching statistical significance with effect size ranging from -0.14 to 1.03. The meta-analysis revealed that aerobic exercise had a moderate statistically significant effect on improving cutaneous microvascular reactivity (effect size (ES)=0.43, 95% CI: 0.08-0.78, p=0.015). Individual studies employing an exercise training intervention have tended to have small sample sizes and hence lacked sufficient power to detect clinically meaningful benefits to cutaneous microvascular reactivity. Pooled analysis revealed a clear benefit of exercise training on improving cutaneous microvascular reactivity in older and previously inactive adult cohorts. Exercise training may provide a cost-effective option for improving cutaneous microvascular reactivity in adults and may be of benefit to those with cardiovascular disease and metabolic disorders such as diabetes. Copyright © 2016 Sports Medicine Australia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

40 CFR 141.715 - Microbial toolbox options for meeting Cryptosporidium treatment requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... criteria are in § 141.716(b). Pre Filtration Toolbox Options (3) Presedimentation basin with coagulation 0... separate granular media filtration stage if treatment train includes coagulation prior to first filter...

40 CFR 141.715 - Microbial toolbox options for meeting Cryptosporidium treatment requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... criteria are in § 141.716(b). Pre Filtration Toolbox Options (3) Presedimentation basin with coagulation 0... separate granular media filtration stage if treatment train includes coagulation prior to first filter...

American Indian Education Option in the Elementary Teacher Training Program at Montana State University at Bozeman.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Old Coyote, Elnora A.; Chesarek, John Stephen

A description of the history and development of the University of Montana's American Indian education option in elementary teacher education is presented. Objectives and goals for the federally funded project are given, and the core personnel involved in the program are introduced. Budgeting procedures for the implementation of the option are…

Nursing Education and Training: Alternative Federal Approaches. Budget Issue Paper for Fiscal Year 1979.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Congress of the U.S., Washington, DC. Congressional Budget Office.

Key issues pertinent to federal support of nursing education and training are considered. Policy options for nurse training include: support for programs to increase aggregate supply, support for programs to improve geographic distribution of nurses, support for programs to increase the availability of nurses with advanced training, and support…

[THE VIBRATION TRAINING AS SARCOPENIA INTERVENTION: IMPACT ON THE NEUROMUSCULAR SYSTEM OF THE ELDERLY].

PubMed

Palop Montoro, María Victoria; Párraga Montilla, Juan Antonio; Lozano Aguilera, Emilio; Arteaga Checa, Milagros

2015-10-01

aging is accompanied by a progressive reduction of muscle mass that contributes to the development of functional limitations, and where vibration training may be an option for optimal intervention in the prevention and treatment of sarcopenia. to assess the effectiveness of whole-body vibration in the neuromuscular system of the elderly. systematic review in Medline, CINAHL, WOS and PEDro data by combining the descriptors of Medical Subject Headings concerning vibration training, muscle strength, muscle mass and older adults. a total of 214 studies were found on the vibration training in older people as either the only intervention or in combination with other exercises, of which 45 met the selection criteria. Of these, 30 items were eliminated by not more than 5 points according to the PEDro scale. They were included 15 clinical trials for final analysis. WBV training proves to be a safe, adequate and effective strength training method in the elderly population, but results are similar to conventional resistance exercise in the prevention and treatment of sarcopenia. Copyright AULA MEDICA EDICIONES 2014. Published by AULA MEDICA. All rights reserved.

Gamified Cognitive Control Training for Remitted Depressed Individuals: User Requirements Analysis

PubMed Central

Van Looy, Jan; Hoorelbeke, Kristof; Baeken, Chris; Koster, Ernst HW

2018-01-01

Background The high incidence and relapse rates of major depressive disorder demand novel treatment options. Standard treatments (psychotherapy, medication) usually do not target cognitive control impairments, although these seem to play a crucial role in achieving stable remission. The urgent need for treatment combined with poor availability of adequate psychological interventions has instigated a shift toward internet interventions. Numerous computerized programs have been developed that can be presented online and offline. However, their uptake and adherence are oftentimes low. Objective The aim of this study was to perform a user requirements analysis for an internet-based training targeting cognitive control. This training focuses on ameliorating cognitive control impairments, as these are still present during remission and can be a risk factor for relapse. To facilitate uptake of and adherence to this intervention, a qualitative user requirements analysis was conducted to map mandatory and desirable requirements. Methods We conducted a user requirements analysis through a focus group with 5 remitted depressed individuals and individual interviews with 6 mental health care professionals. All qualitative data were transcribed and examined using a thematic analytic approach. Results Results showed mandatory requirements for the remitted sample in terms of training configuration, technological and personal factors, and desirable requirements regarding knowledge and enjoyment. Furthermore, knowledge and therapeutic benefits were key requirements for therapists. Conclusions The identified requirements provide useful information to be integrated in interventions targeting cognitive control in depression. PMID:29622525

On a learning curve for shared decision making: Interviews with clinicians using the knee osteoarthritis Option Grid.

PubMed

Elwyn, Glyn; Rasmussen, Julie; Kinsey, Katharine; Firth, Jill; Marrin, Katy; Edwards, Adrian; Wood, Fiona

2018-02-01

Tools used in clinical encounters to illustrate to patients the risks and benefits of treatment options have been shown to increase shared decision making. However, we do not have good information about how these tools are viewed by clinicians and how clinicians think patients would react to their use. Our aim was to examine clinicians' views about the possible and actual use of tools designed to support patients and clinicians to collaborate and deliberate about treatment options, namely, Option Grid decision aids. We conducted a thematic analysis of qualitative interviews embedded in the intervention phase of a trial of an Option Grid decision aid for osteoarthritis of the knee. Interviews were conducted with 6 participating clinicians before they used the tool and again after clinicians had used the tool with 6 patients. In the first interview, clinicians voiced concerns that the tool would lead to an increase in encounter duration, patient resistance regarding involvement in decision making, and potential information overload. At the second interview, after minimal training, the clinicians reported that the tool had changed their usual way of communicating, and it was generally acceptable and helpful to integrate it into practice. After experiencing the use of Option Grids, clinicians became more willing to use the tools in their clinical encounters with patients. How best to introduce Option Grids to clinicians and adopt their use into practice will need careful consideration of context, workflow, and clinical pathways. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

30 CFR Appendix to Subpart B of... - Optional Form for Certifying Mine Rescue Teams

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Optional Form for Certifying Mine Rescue Teams... LABOR EDUCATION AND TRAINING MINE RESCUE TEAMS Mine Rescue Teams for Underground Coal Mines Pt. 49, Subpt. B, App. Appendix to Subpart B of Part 49—Optional Form for Certifying Mine Rescue Teams ER08FE08...

30 CFR Appendix to Subpart B of... - Optional Form for Certifying Mine Rescue Teams

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Optional Form for Certifying Mine Rescue Teams... LABOR EDUCATION AND TRAINING MINE RESCUE TEAMS Mine Rescue Teams for Underground Coal Mines Pt. 49, Subpt. B, App. Appendix to Subpart B of Part 49—Optional Form for Certifying Mine Rescue Teams ER08FE08...

30 CFR Appendix to Subpart B - Optional Form for Certifying Mine Rescue Teams

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Optional Form for Certifying Mine Rescue Teams... EDUCATION AND TRAINING MINE RESCUE TEAMS Mine Rescue Teams for Underground Coal Mines Pt. 49, Subpt. B, App. Appendix to Subpart B—Optional Form for Certifying Mine Rescue Teams ER08FE08.000 ER08FE08.001 ...

30 CFR Appendix to Subpart B - Optional Form for Certifying Mine Rescue Teams

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Optional Form for Certifying Mine Rescue Teams... EDUCATION AND TRAINING MINE RESCUE TEAMS Mine Rescue Teams for Underground Coal Mines Pt. 49, Subpt. B, App. Appendix to Subpart B—Optional Form for Certifying Mine Rescue Teams ER08FE08.000 ER08FE08.001 ...

30 CFR Appendix to Subpart B - Optional Form for Certifying Mine Rescue Teams

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Optional Form for Certifying Mine Rescue Teams... EDUCATION AND TRAINING MINE RESCUE TEAMS Mine Rescue Teams for Underground Coal Mines Pt. 49, Subpt. B, App. Appendix to Subpart B—Optional Form for Certifying Mine Rescue Teams ER08FE08.000 ER08FE08.001 ...

Effects of different endurance exercise modalities on migraine days and cerebrovascular health in episodic migraineurs: A randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Hanssen, H; Minghetti, A; Magon, S; Rossmeissl, A; Rasenack, M; Papadopoulou, A; Klenk, C; Faude, O; Zahner, L; Sprenger, T; Donath, L

2018-03-01

Aerobic exercise training is a promising complementary treatment option in migraine and can reduce migraine days and improve retinal microvascular function. Our aim was to elucidate whether different aerobic exercise programs at high vs moderate intensities distinctly affect migraine days as primary outcome and retinal vessel parameters as a secondary. In this randomized controlled trial, migraine days were recorded by a validated migraine diary in 45 migraineurs of which 36 (female: 28; age: 36 (SD:10)/BMI: 23.1 (5.3) completed the training period (dropout: 20%). Participants were assigned (Strata: age, gender, fitness and migraine symptomatology) to either high intensity interval training (HIT), moderate continuous training (MCT), or a control group (CON). Intervention groups trained twice a week over a 12-week intervention period. Static retinal vessel analysis, central retinal arteriolar (CRAE) and venular (CRVE) diameters, as well as the arteriolar-to-venular diameter ratio (AVR) were obtained for cerebrovascular health assessment. Incremental treadmill testing yielded maximal and submaximal fitness parameters. Overall, moderate migraine day reductions were observed (ηP2 = .12): HIT revealed 89% likely beneficial effects (SMD = 1.05) compared to MCT (SMD = 0.50) and CON (SMD = 0.59). Very large intervention effects on AVR improvement (ηP2 = 0.27), slightly favoring HIT (SMD=-0.43) over CON (SMD=0), were observed. HIT seems more effective for migraine day reduction and improvement of cerebrovascular health compared to MCT. Intermittent exercise programs of higher intensities may need to be considered as an additional treatment option in migraine patients. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Implementing oral chemotherapy services in community pharmacies: a qualitative study of chemotherapy nurses' and pharmacists' views.

PubMed

Butt, Farida; Ream, Emma

2016-05-01

Changes in health-care provision have led to cancer patients being offered oral chemotherapy in the community. Three levels of oral chemotherapy services have been proposed (levels 1, 2 and 3) with community pharmacies playing differing roles within them. This study aims to explore health-care professionals' views on oral chemotherapy services being delivered by community pharmacies and to gain insights into the barriers, facilitators and training/knowledge needs of community pharmacists with respect to providing them. Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of three chemotherapy nurses, five oncology pharmacists and five community pharmacists. Data were analysed thematically using Framework Analysis. Findings for level 1 and 2 services included uncertainty on community pharmacists' professional responsibilities, the expertise of GPs in prescribing oral chemotherapy and the training and competency of community pharmacists. The lack of patient information, care and support provision was emphasised for all the models. Although level 1 was achievable in current practice, level 2 was considered the safest option, while level 3 was ideal but risky option. For all levels, training and education for community pharmacists and inter-professional issues were facilitators to oral chemotherapy services. The service environment, dispensing process-related constraints (access to blood test results and protocols) were significant barriers for levels 2 and 3. Advanced communication skills, patient education and counselling were identified as key areas for education and training for community pharmacists. The study suggests there are significant concerns and challenges associated with community pharmacies implementing any of the proposed levels of oral chemotherapy services. Educational and training opportunities for community pharmacists and the careful development of safe infrastructures will be essential in the future planning and implementation of any community pharmacy oral chemotherapy service. © 2015 Royal Pharmaceutical Society.

Scientific Library Offers New Training Options | Poster

Cancer.gov

The Scientific Library is expanding its current training opportunities by offering webinars, allowing employees to take advantage of trainings from the comfort of their own offices. Due to the nature of their work, some employees find it inconvenient to attend in-person training classes; others simply prefer to use their own computers. The Scientific Library has been

Australian Vocational Education and Training Statistics: Young People in Education & Training 2013

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER), 2014

2014-01-01

The Australian education and training system offers a range of options for young people. This publication provides a summary of the statistics relating to young people aged 15 to 19 years who participated in an education and training activity during 2013 Information on participation is presented for VET in Schools students, higher education…

Australian Vocational Education and Training Statistics: Young People in Education and Training, 2011

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER), 2012

2012-01-01

The Australian education and training system offers a range of options for young people. This publication provides a summary of the statistics relating to young people aged 15 to 19 years who participated in an education and training activity during 2011. Information on participation is presented for VET in Schools students, school students,…

Exploring the Impact of Online Training Design on Volunteer Motivation and Intention to Act

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Frendo, Molly

2017-01-01

Prior research on volunteer training suggests that in-person options are the best way to support volunteer skill development and motivation. Until fairly recently, face-to-face training was the only choice for volunteer training beyond individual self-study through books and manuals. Due to lack of resources and an increased accessibility of…

Modernizing Training Options for Natural Areas Managers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Friedl, Sarah E.; Ober, Holly K.; Stein, Taylor V.; Andreu, Michael G.

2015-01-01

A recent shift in desires among working professionals from traditional learning environments to distance education has emerged due to reductions in travel and training budgets. To accommodate this, the Natural Areas Training Academy replaced traditionally formatted workshops with a hybrid approach. Surveys of participants before and after this…

The effect of scopolamine on matching behavior and the estimation of relative reward magnitude.

PubMed

Leon, Matthew I; Rodriguez-Barrera, Vanessa; Amaya, Aldo

2017-10-01

We investigated the behavioral effects of scopolamine on rats that bar pressed for trains of electrically stimulating pulses under concurrent variable interval schedules of reward. For the first half of the session (30 min) a 1:4 ratio in the programmed number of stimulation trains delivered at each option was in effect. At the start of the second half of the session, an unsignaled reversal in the relative train number (4:1) occurred. We tracked the relative magnitude of reward estimated for each contiguous pair of reinforced visits to competing options. Scopolamine hydrobromide led to a reduction in the relative magnitude of reward. A similar result was obtained in a follow-up test in which relative magnitude was manipulated by varying the pulse frequency of stimulation, while equating the train number at each option. The effect of scopolamine hydrobromide could not be attributed to undermatching, side bias, nor to an effect of scopolamine on the reward integration process. When the same rats were treated with scopolamine methylbromide, no effects on matching behavior were observed. Our results suggest a cholinergic basis for the computation of choice variables related to matching behavior. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved).

Payload Crew Training Complex (PCTC) utilization and training plan

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Self, M. R.

1980-01-01

The physical facilities that comprise the payload crew training complex (PCTC) are described including the host simulator; experiment simulators; Spacelab aft flight deck, experiment pallet, and experiment rack mockups; the simulation director's console; payload operations control center; classrooms; and supporting soft- and hardware. The parameters of a training philosophy for payload crew training at the PCTC are established. Finally the development of the training plan is addressed including discussions of preassessment, and evaluation options.

Advancing non-directive pregnancy options counseling skills: A pilot Study on the use of blended learning with an online module and simulation.

PubMed

Lupi, Carla; Ward-Peterson, Melissa; Chang, Winnie

2016-10-01

Limitations on didactic time pose barriers to teaching non-directive pregnancy options counseling. This study set out to explore the use of an online module to support trainee performance in a pregnancy options counseling standardized-patient exercise implemented among third-year medical students, and to examine the effect of clinical experience on student performance. An online module was developed. A convenience sample of forty-six student performances in a family medicine clerkship participated in a standardized patient exercise. Trained faculty rated performances. Students completed a self-assessment and provided feedback on the online module. Chi-square and Mann-Whitney-U tests were used to analyze data. Three coders qualitatively examined narrative student comments. Thirty-four students passed, 11 achieved a minimal pass, and one failed. The mean global rating from faculty was 2.8 (pass). Students with prior clinical experience significantly outperformed those without on the global rating scale with mean scores of 3.1 compared to 2.7, respectively (p=.044). All students agreed that the online module helped prepare them for the exercise. Qualitative analysis of students' feedback on the module revealed strengths in content and pedagogy. In their self-assessments, all but two students referred to content explicitly conveyed in the module. All students agreed that an online module supported their performance of non-directive pregnancy options counseling skills. Prior clinical experience was associated with improved performance. This module, along with the simulated exercise, can be implemented as a blended learning exercise without additional faculty teaching effort in standardized patient resource centers. Students agreed that an online module facilitates simulated performance of non-directive pregnancy options counseling skills. Future work should compare the impact of this approach to others, and explore the additional training needed to maintain and build on initial learning. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Principal component analysis for designed experiments.

PubMed

Konishi, Tomokazu

2015-01-01

Principal component analysis is used to summarize matrix data, such as found in transcriptome, proteome or metabolome and medical examinations, into fewer dimensions by fitting the matrix to orthogonal axes. Although this methodology is frequently used in multivariate analyses, it has disadvantages when applied to experimental data. First, the identified principal components have poor generality; since the size and directions of the components are dependent on the particular data set, the components are valid only within the data set. Second, the method is sensitive to experimental noise and bias between sample groups. It cannot reflect the experimental design that is planned to manage the noise and bias; rather, it estimates the same weight and independence to all the samples in the matrix. Third, the resulting components are often difficult to interpret. To address these issues, several options were introduced to the methodology. First, the principal axes were identified using training data sets and shared across experiments. These training data reflect the design of experiments, and their preparation allows noise to be reduced and group bias to be removed. Second, the center of the rotation was determined in accordance with the experimental design. Third, the resulting components were scaled to unify their size unit. The effects of these options were observed in microarray experiments, and showed an improvement in the separation of groups and robustness to noise. The range of scaled scores was unaffected by the number of items. Additionally, unknown samples were appropriately classified using pre-arranged axes. Furthermore, these axes well reflected the characteristics of groups in the experiments. As was observed, the scaling of the components and sharing of axes enabled comparisons of the components beyond experiments. The use of training data reduced the effects of noise and bias in the data, facilitating the physical interpretation of the principal axes. Together, these introduced options result in improved generality and objectivity of the analytical results. The methodology has thus become more like a set of multiple regression analyses that find independent models that specify each of the axes.

My Child Has Been Diagnosed with ADHD - Now What?

MedlinePlus

... conducted a review in 2010 of all existing studies on treatment options for children younger than 6 years of age. The review found enough evidence to recommend parent training in behavior therapy as a good treatment option for children ...

Toxics Use Reduction to Achieve Enhanced Pollution Prevention Success

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Training material from the Massachusetts Toxics Use Reduction Institute, University of Massachusetts Lowell. This training explains toxic use reduction, process mapping and materials accounting. Helps identify TUR opportunities and TUR options evaluation

Use of Video Analysis System for Working Posture Evaluations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McKay, Timothy D.; Whitmore, Mihriban

1994-01-01

In a work environment, it is important to identify and quantify the relationship among work activities, working posture, and workplace design. Working posture may impact the physical comfort and well-being of individuals, as well as performance. The Posture Video Analysis Tool (PVAT) is an interactive menu and button driven software prototype written in Supercard (trademark). Human Factors analysts are provided with a predefined set of options typically associated with postural assessments and human performance issues. Once options have been selected, the program is used to evaluate working posture and dynamic tasks from video footage. PVAT has been used to evaluate postures from Orbiter missions, as well as from experimental testing of prototype glove box designs. PVAT can be used for video analysis in a number of industries, with little or no modification. It can contribute to various aspects of workplace design such as training, task allocations, procedural analyses, and hardware usability evaluations. The major advantage of the video analysis approach is the ability to gather data, non-intrusively, in restricted-access environments, such as emergency and operation rooms, contaminated areas, and control rooms. Video analysis also provides the opportunity to conduct preliminary evaluations of existing work areas.

The Use of Cloud Technology in Athletic Training Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Perkey, Dennis

2012-01-01

As technology advances and becomes more portable, athletic training educators (ATEs) have many options available to them. Whether attempting to streamline efforts in courses, or operate a more efficient athletic training education program, portable technology is becoming an important tool that will assist the ATE. One tool that allows more…

Development Strategies for Online Volunteer Training Modules: A Team Approach

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Robideau, Kari; Vogel, Eric

2014-01-01

Volunteers are central to the delivery of 4-H programs, and providing quality, relevant training is key to volunteer success. Online, asynchronous modules are an enhancement to a training delivery menu for adult volunteers, providing consistent, accessible options traditionally delivered primarily face to face. This article describes how Minnesota…

Multi Attribute Decision Analysis in Public Health - Analyzing Effectiveness of Alternate Modes of Dispensing

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-09-01

curve (Smith, 2007). This curve shows the relative performance of an option based on the selected factors (Chan & Mauborgne, 2007). Value cures ...that they and their families are safe; anything less will result in staffing shortages and absenteeism . d. POD Staff Training POD volunteers would...can expect high rates of absenteeism . Local law enforcement in LAC has therefore not guaranteed one- on-one protection for the 3,750 postal carriers

Design of Training Systems (DOTS) Project: Test and Evaluation of Phase II Models

DTIC Science & Technology

1976-04-01

when the process being modeled is very much dependent upon human resoarces, precise requirement formulas are usually V unavailable. In this...mixed integer formulation options. The SGRR, in a sense, is an automiation of what is cu~rrently beinig donec men~tall y by instructors and trai ninrg nv...test and evaluation (T&E); information concerning CNETS LCDR R. J. Biersner Human Factors Analysis, N-214 AV 922-1392 CNTECHTRA CDR J. D. Davis

Impact Assessment and Forecasts of Information and Telecommunications Technologies Applied to Education and Training: Volume II--Main Report and Issues Analyses. Analysis for the Orientation of the Work of Sector Actors in the Framework of DELTA.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Commission of the European Communities, Brussels (Belgium).

This report, the second volume in a three volume set, summarizes the results of a study performed by the DELTA (Developing European Learning through Technological Advance) unit in parallel with the projects underway in the research and development Exploratory Action. The report identifies the key issues, associated requirements and options, and…

An activity-based methodology for operations cost analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Korsmeyer, David; Bilby, Curt; Frizzell, R. A.

1991-01-01

This report describes an activity-based cost estimation method, proposed for the Space Exploration Initiative (SEI), as an alternative to NASA's traditional mass-based cost estimation method. A case study demonstrates how the activity-based cost estimation technique can be used to identify the operations that have a significant impact on costs over the life cycle of the SEI. The case study yielded an operations cost of $101 billion for the 20-year span of the lunar surface operations for the Option 5a program architecture. In addition, the results indicated that the support and training costs for the missions were the greatest contributors to the annual cost estimates. A cost-sensitivity analysis of the cultural and architectural drivers determined that the length of training and the amount of support associated with the ground support personnel for mission activities are the most significant cost contributors.

Work-Experience and Work-Study Programs for Students with Special Needs: Quality Indicators of Transition Services.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wisniewski, Lech A.; And Others

1991-01-01

This article proposes a continuum of employment training options for students with special needs and identifies program quality indicators in the areas of assessment and the Individual Education Plan; the employment training program; community-based settings; provisions for on-site training and evaluation; and interagency cooperation. (DB)

Integrating Training in Family-Centered Practices in Context: Implications for Implementing Change Activities.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Granlund, Mats; Bjorck-Akesson, Eva

2000-01-01

This article discusses in-service training of Swedish professionals in family-centered intervention for families with children with disabilities. The training, which has been implemented on an interdisciplinary team basis in the context of ordinary habilitation services, is described as one of several options for fostering improvement within an…

Assessment of MSFC's supervisory training programs and courses. [marshall space flight center

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brindley, T. A.

1982-01-01

Courses and special programs to train supervisors at Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) were to determine the adequacy of the present MSFC Supervisory Training Program and to recommend changes, if appropriate. The content, procedures, and student evaluations of the required Office of Personnel Management (OPM) 80 hours training for supervisors, the optional 120 hours, the MSFC Management Development Program (MDP), NASA's Management Education Program (MEP), various OPM and special contract programs, pertinent procedural guidelines, regulations, and letters, as well as various MSFC computer reports which indicate who took what training were analyzed. Various interviews with MSFC personnel involved in training are included. Recommendations consist of: (1) the choice of courses selected for the basic required OPM 80 hours be improved; (2) the optional 120 hours be discontinued and a shorter module be developed dealing with managerial decision making and human relations skills; (3) the MDP and MEP be continued as at present; and (4) that a broad array of developmental strategies be incorporated to provide a variety of opportunities for supervisory improvement.

Innovations in occupational health nursing education, including a distance learning approach.

PubMed

Lowis, A; Ellington, H

1991-07-01

The results of a survey in the United Kingdom in the late 1980s indicated that many occupational health nurses were not being sent for formal training because of the length of time nurses needed to be away from their employment and the difficulty employers had in finding nurse replacements during training. To meet the needs of occupational health nurses and their employers, the Robert Gordon Institute of Technology (RGIT) instituted a modular training course that offers full time attendance or distance learning options. RGIT's course consists of six modules over a 1 to 3 year period, which students can take in any order after completing a short Return to Study course. Using the innovative distance learning option, occupational health nurses can earn a Diploma in Occupational Health Nursing while completing most of their courses at the workplace, thus avoiding conflicts between training and work schedules.

Trends in Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education Accreditation for Subspecialty Fellowship Training in Plastic Surgery.

PubMed

Silvestre, Jason; Serletti, Joseph M; Chang, Benjamin

2018-05-01

The purposes of this study were to (1) determine the proportion of plastic surgery residents pursuing subspecialty training relative to other surgical specialties, and (2) analyze trends in Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education accreditation of plastic surgery subspecialty fellowship programs. The American Medical Association provided data on career intentions of surgical chief residents graduating from 2014 to 2016. The percentage of residents pursuing fellowship training was compared by specialty. Trends in the proportion of accredited fellowship programs in craniofacial surgery, hand surgery, and microsurgery were analyzed. The percentage of accredited programs was compared between subspecialties with added-certification options (hand surgery) and subspecialties without added-certification options (craniofacial surgery and microsurgery). Most integrated and independent plastic surgery residents pursued fellowship training (61.8 percent versus 49.6 percent; p = 0.014). Differences existed by specialty from a high in orthopedic surgery (90.8 percent) to a low in colon and rectal surgery (3.2 percent). From 2005 to 2015, the percentage of accredited craniofacial fellowship programs increased, but was not significant (from 27.8 percent to 33.3 percent; p = 0.386). For hand surgery, the proportion of accredited programs that were plastic surgery (p = 0.755) and orthopedic surgery (p = 0.253) was stable, whereas general surgery decreased (p = 0.010). Subspecialty areas with added-certification options had more accredited fellowships than those without (100 percent versus 19.2 percent; p < 0.001). There has been slow adoption of accreditation among plastic surgery subspecialty fellowships, but added-certification options appear to be highly correlated.

Student Retention in Athletic Training Education Programs

PubMed Central

Dodge, Thomas M; Mitchell, Murray F; Mensch, James M

2009-01-01

Context: The success of any academic program, including athletic training, depends upon attracting and keeping quality students. The nature of persistent students versus students who prematurely leave the athletic training major is not known. Understanding the profiles of athletic training students who persist or leave is important. Objective: To (1) explore the relationships among the following variables: anticipatory factors, academic integration, clinical integration, social integration, and motivation; (2) determine which of the aforementioned variables discriminate between senior athletic training students and major changers; and (3) identify which variable is the strongest predictor of persistence in athletic training education programs. Design: Descriptive study using a qualitative and quantitative mixed-methods approach. Setting: Thirteen athletic training education programs located in District 3 of the National Athletic Trainers' Association. Patients or Other Participants: Ninety-four senior-level athletic training students and 31 college students who changed majors from athletic training to another degree option. Data Collection: Data were collected with the Athletic Training Education Program Student Retention Questionnaire (ATEPSRQ). Analysis: Data from the ATEPSRQ were analyzed via Pearson correlations, multivariate analysis of variance, univariate analysis of variance, and a stepwise discriminant analysis. Open-ended questions were transcribed and analyzed using open, axial, and selective coding procedures. Member checks and peer debriefing techniques ensured trustworthiness of the study. Results: Pearson correlations identified moderate relationships among motivation and clinical integration (r  =  0.515, P < .01) and motivation and academic integration (r  =  0.509, P < .01). Univariate analyses of variance showed that academic integration (F1,122  =  8.483, P < .004), clinical integration (F1,119  =  30.214, P < .001), and motivation (F1,121  =  68.887, P < .001) discriminated between seniors and major changers. Discriminant analysis indicated that motivation was the strongest predictor of persistence in athletic training education, accounting for 37.2% of the variance between groups. The theoretic model accurately classified 95.7% of the seniors and 53.8% of the major changers. A common theme emerging from the qualitative data was the presence of a strong peer-support group that surrounded many of the senior-level students. Conclusions: Understanding student retention in athletic training is important for our profession. Results from this study suggest 3 key factors associated with student persistence in athletic training education programs: (1) student motivation, (2) clinical and academic integration, and (3) the presence of a peer-support system. Educators and program directors must create comprehensive recruitment and retention strategies that address factors influencing students' decisions to stay in the athletic training profession. PMID:19295966

A Framework to Improve Surgeon Communication in High-Stakes Surgical Decisions: Best Case/Worst Case.

PubMed

Taylor, Lauren J; Nabozny, Michael J; Steffens, Nicole M; Tucholka, Jennifer L; Brasel, Karen J; Johnson, Sara K; Zelenski, Amy; Rathouz, Paul J; Zhao, Qianqian; Kwekkeboom, Kristine L; Campbell, Toby C; Schwarze, Margaret L

2017-06-01

Although many older adults prefer to avoid burdensome interventions with limited ability to preserve their functional status, aggressive treatments, including surgery, are common near the end of life. Shared decision making is critical to achieve value-concordant treatment decisions and minimize unwanted care. However, communication in the acute inpatient setting is challenging. To evaluate the proof of concept of an intervention to teach surgeons to use the Best Case/Worst Case framework as a strategy to change surgeon communication and promote shared decision making during high-stakes surgical decisions. Our prospective pre-post study was conducted from June 2014 to August 2015, and data were analyzed using a mixed methods approach. The data were drawn from decision-making conversations between 32 older inpatients with an acute nonemergent surgical problem, 30 family members, and 25 surgeons at 1 tertiary care hospital in Madison, Wisconsin. A 2-hour training session to teach each study-enrolled surgeon to use the Best Case/Worst Case communication framework. We scored conversation transcripts using OPTION 5, an observer measure of shared decision making, and used qualitative content analysis to characterize patterns in conversation structure, description of outcomes, and deliberation over treatment alternatives. The study participants were patients aged 68 to 95 years (n = 32), 44% of whom had 5 or more comorbid conditions; family members of patients (n = 30); and surgeons (n = 17). The median OPTION 5 score improved from 41 preintervention (interquartile range, 26-66) to 74 after Best Case/Worst Case training (interquartile range, 60-81). Before training, surgeons described the patient's problem in conjunction with an operative solution, directed deliberation over options, listed discrete procedural risks, and did not integrate preferences into a treatment recommendation. After training, surgeons using Best Case/Worst Case clearly presented a choice between treatments, described a range of postoperative trajectories including functional decline, and involved patients and families in deliberation. Using the Best Case/Worst Case framework changed surgeon communication by shifting the focus of decision-making conversations from an isolated surgical problem to a discussion about treatment alternatives and outcomes. This intervention can help surgeons structure challenging conversations to promote shared decision making in the acute setting.

Effect of electroacupuncture versus pelvic floor muscle training plus solifenacin for moderate and severe mixed urinary incontinence in women: a study protocol.

PubMed

Liu, Baoyan; Wang, Yang; Xu, Huanfang; Chen, Yuelai; Wu, Jiani; Mo, Qian; Liu, Zhishun

2014-08-15

In women with mixed urinary incontinence, pelvic floor muscle training and solifenacin is the recommended conservative treatment, while electroacupuncture is a safe, economical and effective option. In this prospective, multi-center, randomized controlled trial, five hundred women with mixed urinary incontinence, from 10 centers will be randomized to receive either electroacupuncture or pelvic floor muscle training plus solifenacin. Women in the acupuncture group will receive electroacupuncture for 3 sessions per week, over 12 weeks, while women in the control group will receive pelvic floor muscle training plus solifenacin (5 mg once daily) for 36 weeks. The primary outcome measure is the proportion of change in 72-hour incontinence episode frequency from baseline to week 12. The secondary outcome measures include eleven items, including proportion of participants with ≥50% decrease in average 72-h incontinence episode frequency, change from baseline in the amount of urine leakage and proportion of change from baseline in 72-h incontinence episode frequency in week 25-36, and so forth. Statistical analysis will include covariance analysis, nonparametric tests and t tests. The objective of this trial is to compare the efficacy and safety of electroacupuncture versus pelvic floor muscle training plus solifenacin in women with moderate and severe mixed urinary incontinence. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02047032.

What's New in Aquatics Training.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ensign, Jim

1992-01-01

There are many options for aquatic professionals requiring retraining to stay current and certified. The article describes six aquatics training programs, noting their strong points, common concerns, basic features, standard fees, course lengths, and how other professionals view their services. (SM)

Stimulated Deep Neural Network for Speech Recognition

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-09-08

making network regularization and robust adaptation challenging. Stimulated training has recently been proposed to address this problem by encouraging...potential to improve regularization and adaptation. This paper investigates stimulated training of DNNs for both of these options. These schemes take

Advanced Tactical Crew System (ATACS) Issues and Options: Impacts on Aircrew Selection and Training.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-10-01

simulation-intensive aircrew training simulator comb1 al readiness tactics development fidelity training device Next Generation Training System 20. ABSTRACT...quest’ione~s. driv.ei iii large part b%’ thlie general reqeuiremuenits for initial and( ’oniiipaili training and for \\irFre iiev,, for achieviotg a...ni- cal In formationl Service. where if will he available to the general public. iicluding foreign nationals. •rhis paper has heen reviewed and is

The Job Training Partnership Act and Computer-Assisted Instruction. Research Report 88-13.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Education Turnkey Systems, Inc., Falls Church, VA.

A study sought to (1) determine the current and potential instructional application of computers in Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) Titles II, III, and IV programs; and (2) present policy options that would increase the effective use of this technology in employment and training programs. Research methodology involved conducting an assessment…

Format of Basic Instruction Program Resistance Training Classes: Effect on Fitness Change in College Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Barfield, J. P.; Channell, Brian; Pugh, Chip; Tuck, Matt; Pendel, Dustin

2012-01-01

New resistance training programs such as CrossFit are gaining favor among college-aged students. CrossFit and related commercial resistance training programs may provide a valuable elective option within basic instruction program (BIP) curricula, but the fitness benefits of this course have not been compared with those of existing BIP resistance…

The experience of maternal and child health nurses responding to women with postpartum depression.

PubMed

Rush, Penelope

2012-02-01

Previous studies have shown that maternal and child health nurses (MCH nurses) are in a unique position to help mothers with postpartum depression (PPD), but little has been done to understand the MCH nurses' day-to-day experience. This Australian study addresses that issue by analyzing the results of eight in-depth interviews with MCH nurses. The data obtained from these interviews was analyzed using the phenomenological method described by Creswell, adapted from Moustakas. From this analysis five themes emerge: how MCH nurses recognize symptoms of PPD; the importance of having treatment options available; the role of rapport; the limits of MCH nurses in responding to PPD; and how MCH nurses respond when recognizing new cases of PPD. The results of the study reveal several areas for policy review, most significantly the need for more MCH nurse training to recognize the symptoms of PPD and identify the appropriate treatment option. In addition, a review of staff retention and mobility policies is recommended to improve rapport with mothers and maintain and grow knowledge of local treatment options.

Scientific Library Offers New Training Options | Poster

Cancer.gov

The Scientific Library is expanding its current training opportunities by offering webinars, allowing employees to take advantage of trainings from the comfort of their own offices. Due to the nature of their work, some employees find it inconvenient to attend in-person training classes; others simply prefer to use their own computers. The Scientific Library has been experimenting with webinar sessions since 2016 and expanded the service in 2017. Now, due to the popularity of webinars, it plans to offer even more webinar training sessions.

Analytic institutes: A guide to training in the United States

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blanken, Terry G.

This investigation was inspired by the researcher's desire to pursue psychoanalytic training subsequent to completion of her PhD in clinical psychology and the discovery that no comprehensive resource existed to assist prospective psychoanalytic candidates with identifying or evaluating psychoanalytic training opportunities. This dissertation therefore aspires to provide a comprehensive guide to analytic training in the United States today. The researcher presents the expanding horizons of depth-oriented training leading to certification as an analyst, including training based on those schools of thought that resulted from early splits with Freud (Adlerian and Jungian) as well as training based on thought that has remained within the Freudian theoretical umbrella (e.g., classical, object relations, self psychology, etc.). Employing a heuristic approach and using hermeneutics and systems theory methodologies, the study situates analytic training in its historical context, explores contemporary issues, and considers its future. The study reviews the various analytic schools of thought and traces the history of psychoanalytic theory from its origins with Freud through its many permutations. It then discusses the history of psychoanalytic training and describes political, social, and economic factors influencing the development of training in this country. The centerpiece of the dissertation is a guidebook offering detailed information on each of 107 training institutes in the United States. Tables provide contact data and information which differentiate the institutes in terms of such parameters as size; length of program, theoretical orientation, and accreditation. A narrative of each institute summarizes the unique aspects of the program, including its admissions policy, the requirements for the training analysis and supervised clinical work, and the didactic curriculum, along with lists of courses offered. Child and adolescent psychoanalytic training is also discussed for institutes offering this option. A discussion of the contemporary world of analytic training emerges from the results of the analysis of individual institutes. Both the variations and convergences among institutes are explored. Current problems and issues in training, accreditation, and licensing are addressed. Finally, the future of psychoanalytic training is considered; concluding with an assessment of needed reforms and presentation of a model for the ideal analytic training institute of the future.

Pro: pediatric anesthesia training in developing countries is best achieved by selective out of country scholarships.

PubMed

Gathuya, Zipporah N

2009-01-01

Pediatric anesthesia training in developing countries is best achieved by out of country scholarships rather than structured outreach visits by teams of specialists from the developed world. Although this may seem an expensive option with slow return, it is the only sustainable way to train future generations of specialized pediatric anesthetists in developing countries.

Using Participatory Action Research to Improve Vocational Skills Training for Marginalised Youth in Uganda: Experiences from an Early School-Leavers' Project

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tukundane, Cuthbert; Zeelen, Jacques

2015-01-01

Although vocational education and training is considered to be a good option for improving livelihood opportunities for marginalised youth in developing countries, it often suffers from an image problem. This situation affects the quality of entrants, instruction and skills acquisition in training programmes. In this article, the researchers…

How do students react to analyzing their own genomes in a whole-genome sequencing course?: outcomes of a longitudinal cohort study.

PubMed

Sanderson, Saskia C; Linderman, Michael D; Zinberg, Randi; Bashir, Ali; Kasarskis, Andrew; Zweig, Micol; Suckiel, Sabrina; Shah, Hardik; Mahajan, Milind; Diaz, George A; Schadt, Eric E

2015-11-01

Health-care professionals need to be trained to work with whole-genome sequencing (WGS) in their practice. Our aim was to explore how students responded to a novel genome analysis course that included the option to analyze their own genomes. This was an observational cohort study. Questionnaires were administered before (T3) and after the genome analysis course (T4), as well as 6 months later (T5). In-depth interviews were conducted at T5. All students (n = 19) opted to analyze their own genomes. At T5, 12 of 15 students stated that analyzing their own genomes had been useful. Ten reported they had applied their knowledge in the workplace. Technical WGS knowledge increased (mean of 63.8% at T3, mean of 72.5% at T4; P = 0.005). In-depth interviews suggested that analyzing their own genomes may increase students' motivation to learn and their understanding of the patient experience. Most (but not all) of the students reported low levels of WGS results-related distress and low levels of regret about their decision to analyze their own genomes. Giving students the option of analyzing their own genomes may increase motivation to learn, but some students may experience personal WGS results-related distress and regret. Additional evidence is required before considering incorporating optional personal genome analysis into medical education on a large scale.

Scalable Options for Extended Skill Building Following Didactic Training in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Anxious Youth: A Pilot Randomized Trial.

PubMed

Chu, Brian C; Carpenter, Aubrey L; Wyszynski, Christopher M; Conklin, Phoebe H; Comer, Jonathan S

2017-01-01

A sizable gap exists between the availability of evidence-based psychological treatments and the number of community therapists capable of delivering such treatments. Limited time, resources, and access to experts prompt the need for easily disseminable, lower cost options for therapist training and continued support beyond initial training. A pilot randomized trial tested scalable extended support models for therapists following initial training. Thirty-five postdegree professionals (43%) or graduate trainees (57%) from diverse disciplines viewed an initial web-based training in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for youth anxiety and then were randomly assigned to 10 weeks of expert streaming (ES; viewing weekly online supervision sessions of an expert providing consultation), peer consultation (PC; non-expert-led group discussions of CBT), or fact sheet self-study (FS; weekly review of instructional fact sheets). In initial expectations, trainees rated PC as more appropriate and useful to meet its goals than either ES or FS. At post, all support programs were rated as equally satisfactory and useful for therapists' work, and comparable in increasing self-reported use of CBT strategies (b = .19, p = .02). In contrast, negative linear trends were found on a knowledge quiz (b = -1.23, p = .01) and self-reported beliefs about knowledge (b = -1.50, p < .001) and skill (b = -1.15, p < .001). Attrition and poor attendance presented a moderate concern for PC, and ES was rated as having the lowest implementation potential. Preliminary findings encourage further development of low-cost, scalable options for continued support of evidence-based training.

Electronic structure of atoms: atomic spectroscopy information system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kazakov, V. V.; Kazakov, V. G.; Kovalev, V. S.; Meshkov, O. I.; Yatsenko, A. S.

2017-10-01

The article presents a Russian atomic spectroscopy, information system electronic structure of atoms (IS ESA) (http://grotrian.nsu.ru), and describes its main features and options to support research and training. The database contains over 234 000 records, great attention paid to experimental data and uniform filling of the database for all atomic numbers Z, including classified levels and transitions of rare earth and transuranic elements and their ions. Original means of visualization of scientific data in the form of spectrograms and Grotrian diagrams have been proposed. Presentation of spectral data in the form of interactive color charts facilitates understanding and analysis of properties of atomic systems. The use of the spectral data of the IS ESA together with its functionality is effective for solving various scientific problems and training of specialists.

Gamified Cognitive Control Training for Remitted Depressed Individuals: User Requirements Analysis.

PubMed

Vervaeke, Jasmien; Van Looy, Jan; Hoorelbeke, Kristof; Baeken, Chris; Koster, Ernst Hw

2018-04-05

The high incidence and relapse rates of major depressive disorder demand novel treatment options. Standard treatments (psychotherapy, medication) usually do not target cognitive control impairments, although these seem to play a crucial role in achieving stable remission. The urgent need for treatment combined with poor availability of adequate psychological interventions has instigated a shift toward internet interventions. Numerous computerized programs have been developed that can be presented online and offline. However, their uptake and adherence are oftentimes low. The aim of this study was to perform a user requirements analysis for an internet-based training targeting cognitive control. This training focuses on ameliorating cognitive control impairments, as these are still present during remission and can be a risk factor for relapse. To facilitate uptake of and adherence to this intervention, a qualitative user requirements analysis was conducted to map mandatory and desirable requirements. We conducted a user requirements analysis through a focus group with 5 remitted depressed individuals and individual interviews with 6 mental health care professionals. All qualitative data were transcribed and examined using a thematic analytic approach. Results showed mandatory requirements for the remitted sample in terms of training configuration, technological and personal factors, and desirable requirements regarding knowledge and enjoyment. Furthermore, knowledge and therapeutic benefits were key requirements for therapists. The identified requirements provide useful information to be integrated in interventions targeting cognitive control in depression. ©Jasmien Vervaeke, Jan Van Looy, Kristof Hoorelbeke, Chris Baeken, Ernst HW Koster. Originally published in JMIR Serious Games (http://games.jmir.org), 05.04.2018.

Sea Training at Maritime Academies Oversight. Hearings Before the Ad Hoc Select Subcommittee on Maritime Education and Training of the Committee on Merchant Marine and Fisheries, House of Representatives, Ninety-Sixth Congress, Second Session on Sea Training of United States Merchant Marine Officers and Different Ways of Satisfying This Requirement at the Various Maritime Academies.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Congress of the U.S., Washington, DC. House Committee on Merchant Marine and Fisheries.

Recorded are minutes of hearings before the House Ad Hoc Select Subcommittee on Maritime Education and Training regarding the sea training of United States Merchant Marine officers. Examined are various approaches to meeting the sea training requirement, especially the options of maritime academy training vessels, sailing on U.S.-flag merchant…

A depression training session with consumer educators to reduce stigmatizing views and improve pharmacists' depression care attitudes and practices.

PubMed

Liekens, Sophie; Smits, Tim; Laekeman, Gert; Foulon, Veerle

2013-08-12

To measure the impact of a depression training day for pharmacists that included a 75-minute session with a consumer educator. The training day included interactive lectures on depression; the effects and side effects of and indications for the use of antidepressants; adherence issues; non-drug treatment options for depression; and basic skills in communication. Pharmacists also participated in a session with a consumer educator and in counseling exercises that included role playing. The study used a randomized, clustered, comparative design to measure pharmacists' stigma, attitudes, and current practice related to the provision of pharmaceutical care to people with depression. Mean scores for depression-care practice after the training session were significantly higher in the intervention group than in the control group. Analysis of the changes between baseline and postintervention measures in both the control and intervention groups confirmed a significant difference in the change in both social distance and practice but no significant difference in the change in attitude between the 2 groups of pharmacists. A continuing-education depression training day for pharmacists that involve consumer educators may improve the care delivered in the community pharmacy to people with depression.

Discovering the Regulatory Considerations of the Federal Aviation Administration: Interviewing the Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lu, Chien-tsung

2005-01-01

Maintenance Resource Management (MRM) training for aviation mechanics has become mandatory in many industrialized countries since 1998. Yet, to date, MRM training remains optional in the U.S. Interestingly, a similar safety discipline, namely Crew/Cockpit Resource Management (CRM), is mandatory for pilots, flight engineers, flight attendants, and dispatchers and is regulated in the Federal Aviation Administration s (FAA) Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs). If MRM training is important to enhance aviation technicians working behavior, the rationale to not regulate it opens a window for study. This research aims to inductively investigate the FAA s regulatory rationale concerning MRM training based on direct inputs from the FAA s Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee (ARAC) members. Delphi methodology associated with purposive sampling technique was adopted. The result revealed that the FAA cannot regulate MRM because the aviation industry is strongly opposed to it due to the lack of training budgets, the need of a quantifiable cost-effect analysis, concern over the FAA s inspection workforce, an ongoing voluntary alternative called the Air Transportation Surveillance System (ATOS), the government s lower priority on maintenance after 9/11, and the airlines tight embracement of operational flexibility without regulation.

Student retention in athletic training education programs.

PubMed

Dodge, Thomas M; Mitchell, Murray F; Mensch, James M

2009-01-01

The success of any academic program, including athletic training, depends upon attracting and keeping quality students. The nature of persistent students versus students who prematurely leave the athletic training major is not known. Understanding the profiles of athletic training students who persist or leave is important. To (1) explore the relationships among the following variables: anticipatory factors, academic integration, clinical integration, social integration, and motivation; (2) determine which of the aforementioned variables discriminate between senior athletic training students and major changers; and (3) identify which variable is the strongest predictor of persistence in athletic training education programs. Descriptive study using a qualitative and quantitative mixed-methods approach. Thirteen athletic training education programs located in District 3 of the National Athletic Trainers' Association. Ninety-four senior-level athletic training students and 31 college students who changed majors from athletic training to another degree option. Data were collected with the Athletic Training Education Program Student Retention Questionnaire (ATEPSRQ). Data from the ATEPSRQ were analyzed via Pearson correlations, multivariate analysis of variance, univariate analysis of variance, and a stepwise discriminant analysis. Open-ended questions were transcribed and analyzed using open, axial, and selective coding procedures. Member checks and peer debriefing techniques ensured trustworthiness of the study. Pearson correlations identified moderate relationships among motivation and clinical integration (r = 0.515, P < .01) and motivation and academic integration (r = 0.509, P < .01). Univariate analyses of variance showed that academic integration (F(1,122) = 8.483, P < .004), clinical integration (F(1,119) = 30.214, P < .001), and motivation (F(1,121) = 68.887, P < .001) discriminated between seniors and major changers. Discriminant analysis indicated that motivation was the strongest predictor of persistence in athletic training education, accounting for 37.2% of the variance between groups. The theoretic model accurately classified 95.7% of the seniors and 53.8% of the major changers. A common theme emerging from the qualitative data was the presence of a strong peer-support group that surrounded many of the senior-level students. Understanding student retention in athletic training is important for our profession. Results from this study suggest 3 key factors associated with student persistence in athletic training education programs: (1) student motivation, (2) clinical and academic integration, and (3) the presence of a peer-support system. Educators and program directors must create comprehensive recruitment and retention strategies that address factors influencing students' decisions to stay in the athletic training profession.

The Teacher Trainer, 2001.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Woodward, Tessa, Ed.

2001-01-01

This journal is designed as a forum for trainers, teachers, and trainees all over the world. Regular features include the following: "Conference Report"; "Process Options"; "People Who Train People"; "Training around the World"; "Session Report"; "Trainee Voices"; "Current Research"; "Just for Interest"; "A Trainer Like Me"; "Trainer Background";…

Evaluation of options for improving Amtrak’s passenger accountability system

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2005-12-01

In investigating the derailment of Amtrak's Auto Train on April 18, 2002, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) reported that an accurate count of persons on the train at the time of the accident was not available at the accident scene. NTS...

Countywide implementation of crisis intervention teams: Multiple methods, measures and sustained outcomes.

PubMed

Kubiak, Sheryl; Comartin, Erin; Milanovic, Edita; Bybee, Deborah; Tillander, Elizabeth; Rabaut, Celeste; Bisson, Heidi; Dunn, Lisa M; Bouchard, Michael J; Hill, Todd; Schneider, Steven

2017-09-01

The crisis intervention team (CIT) is a tool that can be used to foster pre-booking diversion of individuals with mental illness from the criminal justice system and into community treatment services. Although CIT is often implemented solely as the training of law enforcement officers, the model stipulates that CIT is a vehicle for collaboration with community stakeholders who share a similar philosophy, as well as expanded mental health services offering a 24 hour-seven days per week drop-off option for law enforcement officers. This case study presents the countywide implementation of CIT and expands previous findings on the prevalence of officer interaction with persons with mental health issues and CIT training outcomes, including changes in officer perception of individuals with mental health issues. Furthermore, analysis of the disposition of calls for officer assistance coded as mental health or suicide found significant increases in officer drop-offs to the mental health crisis center post-CIT training. Interrupted time series analysis determined that this change has been sustained over time, perhaps owing to the unique communication between county law enforcement and mental health staff. Implications for policy and practice are discussed. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Comparative study of stock trend prediction using time delay, recurrent and probabilistic neural networks.

PubMed

Saad, E W; Prokhorov, D V; Wunsch, D C

1998-01-01

Three networks are compared for low false alarm stock trend predictions. Short-term trends, particularly attractive for neural network analysis, can be used profitably in scenarios such as option trading, but only with significant risk. Therefore, we focus on limiting false alarms, which improves the risk/reward ratio by preventing losses. To predict stock trends, we exploit time delay, recurrent, and probabilistic neural networks (TDNN, RNN, and PNN, respectively), utilizing conjugate gradient and multistream extended Kalman filter training for TDNN and RNN. We also discuss different predictability analysis techniques and perform an analysis of predictability based on a history of daily closing price. Our results indicate that all the networks are feasible, the primary preference being one of convenience.

Effects of Functional Electrical Stimulation Lower Extremity Training in Myotonic Dystrophy Type I: A Pilot Controlled Study.

PubMed

Cudia, Paola; Weis, Luca; Baba, Alfonc; Kiper, Pawel; Marcante, Andrea; Rossi, Simonetta; Angelini, Corrado; Piccione, Francesco

2016-11-01

Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is a new rehabilitative approach that combines electrical stimulation with a functional task. This pilot study evaluated the safety and effectiveness of FES lower extremity training in myotonic dystrophy type 1. This is a controlled pilot study that enrolled 20 patients with myotonic dystrophy type 1 over 2 years. Eight patients (age, 39-67 years) fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Four participants performed FES cycling training for 15 days (one daily session of 30 minutes for 5 days a week). A control group, matched for clinical and genetic variables, who had contraindications to electrical stimulation, performed 6 weeks of conventional resistance and aerobic training. The modified Medical Research Council Scale and functional assessments were performed before and after treatment. Cohen d effect size was used for statistical analysis. Functional electrical stimulation induced lower extremity training was well tolerated and resulted in a greater improvement of tibialis anterior muscle strength (d = 1,583), overall muscle strength (d = 1,723), and endurance (d = 0,626) than conventional training. Functional electrical stimulation might be considered a safe and valid tool to improve muscle function, also in muscles severely compromised in which no other restorative options are available. Confirmation of FES efficacy through further clinical trials is strongly advised.

Furthering the Validity of a Tool to Assess Simulated Pregnancy Options Counseling Skills.

PubMed

Lupi, Carla; Ward-Peterson, Melissa; Coxe, Stefany; Minor, Suzanne; Eliacin, Irmanie; Obeso, Vivian

2016-10-01

To further the validity of a tool to assess nondirective pregnancy options counseling skills. Using a cross-sectional design, we explored four sources of construct validity evidence for an objective structured clinical examination for training and assessment of nondirective pregnancy options counseling: content, response process, internal structure, and relations to other variables. Content of the previously developed tool was enhanced through input from five family medicine educators. The objective structured clinical examination was implemented in a family medicine clerkship with third-year medical students from 2014 to 2015 using trained raters. Response process was addressed after a pilot round. Three new raters evaluated videotapes of 46 performances. Cronbach's alpha, intraclass correlation coefficients, and Spearman's rho were estimated with 95% confidence intervals. The content validity was affirmed. Cronbach's alpha was 0.71. According to Landis and Koch's criteria, all but two items unique to the clinical situation of pregnancy options counseling generated substantial to perfect agreement (0.62-1.00). Relations to other variables within the checklist were strong, ranging from 0.66 to 0.87. This tool for assessing pregnancy options counseling skills has excellent content and strong internal structure. Further work to improve the Global Rating Scale may be necessary for summative use.

An infectious way to teach students about outbreaks.

PubMed

Cremin, Íde; Watson, Oliver; Heffernan, Alastair; Imai, Natsuko; Ahmed, Norin; Bivegete, Sandra; Kimani, Teresia; Kyriacou, Demetris; Mahadevan, Preveina; Mustafa, Rima; Pagoni, Panagiota; Sophiea, Marisa; Whittaker, Charlie; Beacroft, Leo; Riley, Steven; Fisher, Matthew C

2018-06-01

The study of infectious disease outbreaks is required to train today's epidemiologists. A typical way to introduce and explain key epidemiological concepts is through the analysis of a historical outbreak. There are, however, few training options that explicitly utilise real-time simulated stochastic outbreaks where the participants themselves comprise the dataset they subsequently analyse. In this paper, we present a teaching exercise in which an infectious disease outbreak is simulated over a five-day period and subsequently analysed. We iteratively developed the teaching exercise to offer additional insight into analysing an outbreak. An R package for visualisation, analysis and simulation of the outbreak data was developed to accompany the practical to reinforce learning outcomes. Computer simulations of the outbreak revealed deviations from observed dynamics, highlighting how simplifying assumptions conventionally made in mathematical models often differ from reality. Here we provide a pedagogical tool for others to use and adapt in their own settings. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

How does culture affect experiential training feedback in exported Canadian health professional curricula?

PubMed Central

Mousa Bacha, Rasha; Abdelaziz, Somaia

2017-01-01

Objectives To explore feedback processes of Western-based health professional student training curricula conducted in an Arab clinical teaching setting. Methods This qualitative study employed document analysis of in-training evaluation reports (ITERs) used by Canadian nursing, pharmacy, respiratory therapy, paramedic, dental hygiene, and pharmacy technician programs established in Qatar. Six experiential training program coordinators were interviewed between February and May 2016 to explore how national cultural differences are perceived to affect feedback processes between students and clinical supervisors. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and coded according to a priori cultural themes. Results Document analysis found all programs’ ITERs outlined competency items for students to achieve. Clinical supervisors choose a response option corresponding to their judgment of student performance and may provide additional written feedback in spaces provided. Only one program required formal face-to-face feedback exchange between students and clinical supervisors. Experiential training program coordinators identified that no ITER was expressly culturally adapted, although in some instances, modifications were made for differences in scopes of practice between Canada and Qatar.  Power distance was recognized by all coordinators who also identified both student and supervisor reluctance to document potentially negative feedback in ITERs. Instances of collectivism were described as more lenient student assessment by clinical supervisors of the same cultural background. Uncertainty avoidance did not appear to impact feedback processes. Conclusions Our findings suggest that differences in specific cultural dimensions between Qatar and Canada have implications on the feedback process in experiential training which may be addressed through simple measures to accommodate communication preferences. PMID:28315858

How does culture affect experiential training feedback in exported Canadian health professional curricula?

PubMed

Wilbur, Kerry; Mousa Bacha, Rasha; Abdelaziz, Somaia

2017-03-17

To explore feedback processes of Western-based health professional student training curricula conducted in an Arab clinical teaching setting. This qualitative study employed document analysis of in-training evaluation reports (ITERs) used by Canadian nursing, pharmacy, respiratory therapy, paramedic, dental hygiene, and pharmacy technician programs established in Qatar. Six experiential training program coordinators were interviewed between February and May 2016 to explore how national cultural differences are perceived to affect feedback processes between students and clinical supervisors. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and coded according to a priori cultural themes. Document analysis found all programs' ITERs outlined competency items for students to achieve. Clinical supervisors choose a response option corresponding to their judgment of student performance and may provide additional written feedback in spaces provided. Only one program required formal face-to-face feedback exchange between students and clinical supervisors. Experiential training program coordinators identified that no ITER was expressly culturally adapted, although in some instances, modifications were made for differences in scopes of practice between Canada and Qatar.  Power distance was recognized by all coordinators who also identified both student and supervisor reluctance to document potentially negative feedback in ITERs. Instances of collectivism were described as more lenient student assessment by clinical supervisors of the same cultural background. Uncertainty avoidance did not appear to impact feedback processes. Our findings suggest that differences in specific cultural dimensions between Qatar and Canada have implications on the feedback process in experiential training which may be addressed through simple measures to accommodate communication preferences.

Impact Assessment and Forecasts of Information and Telecommunications Technologies Applied to Education and Training. R&D in Information and Communication Based Learning Technology. Analysis of Key Issues for the Orientation of the Work of Sector Actors in the Framework of DELTA. Volume I--Executive Summary.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Commission of the European Communities, Brussels (Belgium).

This report, the first volume in a three volume set, summarizes the results of a study performed by the DELTA (Developing European Learning through Technological Advance) Unit in parallel with the projects underway in the research and development Exploratory Action. The report identifies the key issues, associated requirements and options, and…

Technology Options for Multimedia in Distance Learning. A Report for the Commission of the European Communities--Task Force Human Resources, Education, Training, and Youth.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sherwood-Roberts, P.; Vervest, P.

This report focuses on interactive multimedia delivery platforms available for distance education. An introduction addresses the role of distance education and open learning in covering training needs and advantages of interactive multimedia in training. Chapter 2 proposes a multimedia skills evaluation framework and examines the elements of this…

Connecticut Postsecondary Pathways for Opportunity Youth

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

American Youth Policy Forum, 2015

2015-01-01

Pathways to Postsecondary Opportunities are the range of options created across education institutions, training providers, and community-­based organizations so that each and every young person can access the necessary and personally relevant credentials, skills, and training beyond the completion of a secondary credential that will propel…

Postgraduate Medical Education for Rural Family Practice in Canada.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rourke, James T. B.

2000-01-01

To produce more rural physicians, the College of Family Physicians of Canada recommends providing earlier and more extensive rural medicine experience for all undergraduate medical students, developing rural postgraduate training programs, providing third-year optional special and advanced rural family-medicine skills training, and making advanced…

What Motivates Pre-Service Teachers to Become Teachers and Their Perspectives of English Teaching as a Career Option

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tustiawati, I. A. Mela

2017-01-01

Teaching motivation issues are well-researched in several countries. However, these issues have been rarely investigated in the Indonesian context. This study investigated motivational factors that influence pre-service teachers to enter English teacher training and their perspectives of English teaching as a career option. It comprised a survey…

High-Intensity Interval Training for Improving Postprandial Hyperglycemia

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Little, Jonathan P.; Francois, Monique E.

2014-01-01

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) has garnered attention in recent years as a time-efficient exercise option for improving cardiovascular and metabolic health. New research demonstrates that HIIT may be particularly effective for improving postprandial hyperglycemia in individuals with, or at risk for, type 2 diabetes (T2D). These findings…

Cognitive Load Theory vs. Constructivist Approaches: Which Best Leads to Efficient, Deep Learning?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vogel-Walcutt, J. J.; Gebrim, J. B.; Bowers, C.; Carper, T. M.; Nicholson, D.

2011-01-01

Computer-assisted learning, in the form of simulation-based training, is heavily focused upon by the military. Because computer-based learning offers highly portable, reusable, and cost-efficient training options, the military has dedicated significant resources to the investigation of instructional strategies that improve learning efficiency…

Professional Training of Foreign Languages Teachers in Austria

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Byndas, Olena

2014-01-01

The features of the Austrian education system, namely different types of schools of compulsory and optional levels and the necessity of qualified teachers needed for teaching in such schools, features of foreign languages teachers' professional training and their practical availability for service in school, have been observed. The problem of…

Realtime Caption Reporting Curriculum Development--Year Two. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Amarillo Coll., TX.

An associate degree program to train real-time caption reporters was developed at Amarillo College in Texas. The competency-based curriculum contained steno caption writer and certified court reporter options. The program featured internships at a local television station, during which students received individual hands-on training conducted by…

Robot-assisted gait training in multiple sclerosis: a pilot randomized trial.

PubMed

Beer, S; Aschbacher, B; Manoglou, D; Gamper, E; Kool, J; Kesselring, J

2008-03-01

To evaluate feasibility and perform an explanatory analysis of the efficacy of robot-assisted gait training (RAGT) in MS patients with severe walking disabilities (Expanded Disability Status Scale [EDSS] 6.0-7.5) in a pilot trial. Prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trial comparing RAGT with conventional walking training (CWT) in a group of stable MS patients (n = 35) during an inpatient rehabilitation stay, 15 sessions over three weeks. All patients participated additionally in a multimodal rehabilitation program. The primary outcome measure was walking velocity and secondary measures were 6-min-walking distance, stride length and knee-extensor strength. All tests were performed by an external blinded assessor at baseline after three weeks and at follow-up after six months. Additionally, Extended Barthel Index (EBI) at entry and discharge was assessed (not blinded), and acceptance/convenience of RAGT rated by patients (Visual Analogue Scale [VAS]) was recorded. Nineteen patients were randomly allocated to RAGT and 16 patients to CWT. Groups were comparable at baseline. There were 5 drop-outs (2 related directly to treatment) in the RAGT group and 1 in the CWT group, leaving 14 RAGT patients and 15 CWT patients for final analysis. Acceptance and convenience of RAGT as rated by patients were high. Effect sizes were moderate to large, although not significant, for walking velocity (0.700, 95% CI -0.089 to 1.489), walking distance (0.401, 95% CI - 0.370 to 1.172) and knee-extensor strength (right: 1.105, 95% CI 0.278 to 1.932, left 0.650, 95% CI -0.135 to 1.436) favouring RAGT. Prepost within-group analysis revealed an increase of walking velocity, walking distance and knee-extensor strength in the RAGT group, whereas in CWT group only walking velocity was improved. In both groups outcome values returned to baseline at follow-up after six months (n = 23). Robot-assisted gait training is feasible and may be an effective therapeutic option in MS patients with severe walking disabilities. Effect size calculation and prepost analysis suggest a higher benefit on walking velocity and knee-extensor strength by RAGT compared to CWT. Due to several limitations, however, our results should be regarded as preliminary. Post hoc power calculation showed that two groups of 106 patients are needed to demonstrate a significant moderate effect size of 0.4 after three weeks of RAGT. Thus, further studies with a larger number of patients are needed to investigate the impact of this new treatment option in MS patients.

Opportunities for strategic use of e-learning in scaling up disaster management capacity in Eastern Africa: a descriptive analysis.

PubMed

William, Mayega Roy; Elzie, D; Sebuwufu, D; Kiguli, J; Bazeyo, W

2013-06-01

The growing need for disaster management skills at all levels in Eastern Africa requires innovative approaches to training planners at all levels. While information technology tools provide a viable option, few studies have assessed the capacity for training institutions to use technology for cascading disaster management skills. The design was an explorative survey. A pre-training survey was conducted among 16 faculty members (9 academic staff and 7 information technology (IT) staff) from 7 schools of public health in Eastern Africa. Key informant interviews with 4 students and 4 staff members were conducted at the school of public health in Makerere. IT staff also conducted observations on trends of use of information technology infrastructure. Current levels of use of ICT among teaching and IT staff is variable. On-site use of the internet is high, but off-site access is low. Personal computers, e-mail, discussion forums and other web-based learning management platforms and open education resources (OERs) have been variably used by faculty and students to facilitate learning. On the other hand, videos, web-conferencing, social media, web-based document management tools, and mobile telephone applications were much less frequently used. A disaster management short course produced by the Health Emergencies Management Project (HEMP) has been adapted to a web-based open education resource and an interactive CD-ROM. Challenges included low levels of awareness and skills in technology options among students and faculty and access to reliable internet. Despite the existing challenges, technology tools are a viable platform for cascading disaster management skills in Eastern Africa.

MIST VR. A laparoscopic surgery procedures trainer and evaluator.

PubMed

Sutton, C; McCloy, R; Middlebrook, A; Chater, P; Wilson, M; Stone, R

1997-01-01

The key bimanual instrument tasks involved in laparoscopic surgery have been abstracted for use in a virtual reality surgical skills evaluator and trainer. The trainer uses two laparoscopic instruments mounted on a frame with position sensors which provide instrument movement data that is translated into interactive real time graphics on a PC (P133, 16 Mb RAM, graphics acceleration card). An accurately scaled operating volume of 10 cm3 is represented by a 3D cube on the computer screen. "Camera" position and size of target objects can be varied for different skill levels. Targets appear randomly within the operating volume according to the skill task and can be grasped and manipulated with the instruments. Accuracy and errors during the tasks and time to completion are logged. Mist VR has tutorial, training, examination, analysis and configuration modes. Six tasks have been selected and include combinations of instrument approach, target acquisition, target manipulation and placement, transfer between instruments, target contact with optional diathermy, and controlled instrument withdrawal/replacement. Tasks can be configured for varying degrees of difficulty and the configurations saved to a library for reuse. Specific task configurations can be assigned to individual students. In the examination mode the supervisor can select the tasks, repetitions and order and save to a specific file for that trainee. Progress can be assessed and there is the option for playback of the training session or examination. Data analyses permit overall, including task, and right or left hand performances to be quantified. Mist VR represents a significant advance over the subjective assessment of training performances with existing "plastic box" basic trainers.

Comparison of Online and Traditional Basic Life Support Renewal Training Methods for Registered Professional Nurses.

PubMed

Serwetnyk, Tara M; Filmore, Kristi; VonBacho, Stephanie; Cole, Robert; Miterko, Cindy; Smith, Caitlin; Smith, Charlene M

2015-01-01

Basic Life Support certification for nursing staff is achieved through various training methods. This study compared three American Heart Association training methods for nurses seeking Basic Life Support renewal: a traditional classroom approach and two online options. Findings indicate that online methods for Basic Life Support renewal deliver cost and time savings, while maintaining positive learning outcomes, satisfaction, and confidence level of participants.

The PIERDUB project: International Project on Education and Research in Donation at University of Barcelona: training university students about donation and transplantation.

PubMed

Manyalich, M; Paredes, D; Ballesté, C; Menjívar, A

2010-01-01

Donation and transplantation is an accepted therapeutic option when organ failure or tissue replacements are needed to save or improve the quality of life. However, in most medical schools there is no specific training for it, thus disregarding the key role of university students for the future success of the process. Knowledge diffusion about the donation procedure to clarify doubts and stimulate positive attitudes toward donation. Training university students in the donation and transplantation process. Research about the previous donation knowledge and the impact in donation indexes. Three different phases have been designed: (1) Training the University of Barcelona Health Sciences School students; (2) Training the Health Sciences School students in other faculties of Catalonia, Spain, and International; and (3) research. Since 2005, we have offered yearly an Optional Credits Course to medical students with duration of 45 hours, and two Donation days opened to health sciences students. Since 2007, promotional campaigns have been carried out in medicine and other health sciences faculties. Until now, 818 answered surveys have been collected to evaluate previous knowledge among university students. Training medical and other health sciences students in the donation process will improve quality of medical education and develop a trainer role for future professionals to help improve donation rates.

Systems thinking, the Swiss Cheese Model and accident analysis: a comparative systemic analysis of the Grayrigg train derailment using the ATSB, AcciMap and STAMP models.

PubMed

Underwood, Peter; Waterson, Patrick

2014-07-01

The Swiss Cheese Model (SCM) is the most popular accident causation model and is widely used throughout various industries. A debate exists in the research literature over whether the SCM remains a viable tool for accident analysis. Critics of the model suggest that it provides a sequential, oversimplified view of accidents. Conversely, proponents suggest that it embodies the concepts of systems theory, as per the contemporary systemic analysis techniques. The aim of this paper was to consider whether the SCM can provide a systems thinking approach and remain a viable option for accident analysis. To achieve this, the train derailment at Grayrigg was analysed with an SCM-based model (the ATSB accident investigation model) and two systemic accident analysis methods (AcciMap and STAMP). The analysis outputs and usage of the techniques were compared. The findings of the study showed that each model applied the systems thinking approach. However, the ATSB model and AcciMap graphically presented their findings in a more succinct manner, whereas STAMP more clearly embodied the concepts of systems theory. The study suggests that, whilst the selection of an analysis method is subject to trade-offs that practitioners and researchers must make, the SCM remains a viable model for accident analysis. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Knowledge, aptitudes, and preferences in implant dentistry teaching/training among undergraduate dental students at the University of Barcelona

PubMed Central

Berástegui-Jimeno, Esther; Gay-Escoda, Cosme

2017-01-01

Background Oral implant rehabilitation should be considered a treatment option for any edentulous patient and Implant Dentistry is currently a discipline taught in the undergraduate formation. The level of knowledge acquired and how the students perceive the quality of training in Implant Dentistry could assess to know if it is necessary to improve the syllabus. Material and Methods A questionnaire was developed with 11 questions: Basic knowledge (7); Perception of training received (2); Ways in which students would receive training (2). To be responded anonymously and voluntarily for undergraduates students in the Faculty of Dentistry (University of Barcelona, Spain). Results One hundred and seven students, 76 third year (Group A) and 31 fourth year (Group B) answered the questionnaire. In Group A, 98.68% of students and in Group B 93.54% believed they were poorly informed; 100% of both groups would prefer to receive more training as part of the degree or as postgraduate training through modular courses imparted by experts (A: 71,05%, B: 70,96%) Training through postgraduate programs or training given by private businesses were the least desirable options (A: 42%, B: 64.51%). Questions about basic knowledge acquired received varying responses, which might indicate a certain level of confusion in this area. Conclusions The undergraduate syllabus must be revised to include sufficient content and training to allow the student to indicate implant-based treatments based on evidence. Students would prefer training to be included in the undergraduate syllabus. Key words:Dental implants, dental students, dental education, dental syllabus, implant dentistry. PMID:28578375

Association of reproductive health training on intention to provide services after residency: the family physician resident survey.

PubMed

Romero, Diana; Maldonado, Lisa; Fuentes, Liza; Prine, Linda

2015-01-01

High rates of unintended pregnancy and need for reproductive health services (RHS), including abortion, require continued efforts to train medical professionals and increase availability of these services. With US approval 12 years ago of Mifepristone, a medication abortion pill, abortion services are additionally amenable to primary care. Family physicians are a logical group to focus on given that they provide the bulk of primary care. We analyzed data from an annual survey (2007--2010) of third-year family medicine residents (n=284, response rate=48%--64%) in programs offering abortion training to examine the association between such training and self-reported competence and intentions to provide RHS (with a particular focus on abortion) upon graduation from residency. The majority of residents (75% in most cases) were trained in each of the RHS we asked about; relatively fewer trained in implant insertion (39%), electric vacuum aspiration (EVA) (58%), and manual vacuum aspiration (MVA) (69%). Perceived competence on the part of the graduating residents ranged from high levels in pregnancy options counseling (89%) and IUD insertion (85%) to lows in ultrasound and EVA (both 34%). Bivariate analysis revealed significant associations between number of procedures performed and future intentions to provide them. The association between competence and intentions persisted for all procedures in multivariate analysis, adjusting for number of procedures. Further, the total number of abortions performed during residency increased the odds of intending to provide MVA and medication abortion by 3% and 2%, respectively. Findings support augmenting training in RHS for family medicine residents, given that almost half (45%) of those trained intended to provide abortions. The volume of training should be increased so more residents feel competent, particularly in light of the fact that combined exposure to different abortion procedures has a cumulative impact on intention to provide MVA and medication abortion.

What is the Future of Pediatric Neurology in Canada? Resident and Faculty Perceptions of Training and Workforce Issues.

PubMed

Doja, Asif; Clarkin, Chantalle; Whiting, Sharon; Moharir, Mahendranath

2016-07-01

Pediatric neurology trainee numbers have grown considerably in Canada; recent research, however, has shown that the number of pediatric neurology graduates is outpacing the need for future pediatric neurologists. The purpose of this study was to seek the opinion of pediatric neurology program directors and trainees regarding possible solutions for this issue. Two focus groups were convened during the Canadian Neurological Sciences Federation annual congress in June 2012; one consisted of current and former program directors, and the other of current pediatric neurology trainees. Groups were asked for their perceptions regarding child neurology manpower issues in Canada as well as possible solutions. Focus groups were audio-recorded and transcribed for analysis. Theme-based qualitative analysis was used to analyze the transcripts. Major themes emerging from both focus groups included the emphasis on community pediatric neurology as a viable option for trainees, including the need for community mentors; recognizing the needs of underserviced areas; and establishing academic positions for community preceptors. The need for career mentoring and support structures during residency training was another major theme which arose. Program directors and trainees also gave examples of ways to reduce the current oversupply of trainees in Canada, including limiting the number of trainees entering programs, as well as creating a long-term vision of child neurology in Canada. A nationwide dialogue to discuss the supply and demand of manpower in academic and community pediatric neurology is essential. Career guidance options for pediatric neurology trainees across the country merit further strengthening.

Stakeholder Perceptions of Barriers and Solutions to Significant Expansion of Postsecondary Enrollment Options for High School Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wozniak, Carl; Palmer, Louann Bierlein

2012-01-01

Post-secondary experiences for students still in high school have been promoted as a means to increase academic rigor and create a better-trained workforce. Yet little is known regarding supports needed to significantly increase such options. This study obtained input from 411 stakeholders in one Midwestern state, including 201 district…

Saliva as a tool for monitoring steroid, peptide and immune markers in sport and exercise science.

PubMed

Papacosta, Elena; Nassis, George P

2011-09-01

This paper discusses the use of saliva analysis as a tool for monitoring steroid, peptide, and immune markers of sports training. Salivary gland physiology, regarding the regulation and stimulation of saliva secretion, as well as methodological issues including saliva collection, storage and analysis are addressed in this paper. The effects of exercise on saliva composition are then considered. Exercise elicits changes in salivary levels of steroid hormones, immunoglobulins, antimicrobial proteins and enzymes. Cortisol, testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone can be assessed in saliva, providing a non-invasive option to assess the catabolic and anabolic effects of exercise. Validation studies using blood and salivary measures of steroid hormones are addressed in this paper. Effects of acute exercise and training on salivary immunoglobulins (SIgA, SIgM, SIgG) and salivary antimicrobial proteins, including α-amylase, lysozyme and lactoferrin, are also discussed. Analysis of cortisol and testosterone in saliva may help detect the onset of non-functional overreaching and subsequently may help to prevent the development of overtraining syndrome. Assessment of salivary immunoglobulins and antimicrobial proteins has been shown to successfully represent the effects of exercise on mucosal immunity. Increases in SIgA and antimicrobial proteins concentration and/or secretion rate are associated with acute exercise whereas conversely, decreases have been reported in athletes over a training season leaving the athlete susceptible for upper respiratory tract infections. The measurement of physiological biomarkers in whole saliva can provide a significant tool for assessing the immunological and endocrinological status associated with exercise and training. Copyright © 2011 Sports Medicine Australia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Evaluating Opportunities to Enhance Hoosier State Train Ridership through a Survey of Riders’ Opinions and an Assessment of Access to the Line

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-12-01

Passenger rail is an integral part of intercity transportation networks, especially in areas where residents do not have access to a car or there are not any other options for intercity travel. The Hoosier State Train (HST) line connects five station...

Vocational Education and Training and Human Capital Development: Current Practice and Future Options

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wallenborn, Manfred

2010-01-01

EU neighbouring countries (partner countries) have made considerable efforts to improve their vocational education and training (VET) systems, with different policies and strategies that take account of country-specific priorities in human capital development. This article addresses the donor community. It analyses the role of partner countries'…

The Effectiveness of a Web-Based Motor Skill Assessment Training Program

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kelly, Luke E.; Moran, Thomas E.

2010-01-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a web-based, intereactive video assessment program on teaching preservice physical education majors to assess the motor skill of kicking. The program provided component specific feedback through tutorial, guided practice, and competency training options. The 72 participants were…

Long-Term Abstract Learning of Attentional Set

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Leber, Andrew B.; Kawahara, Jun-Ichiro; Gabari, Yuji

2009-01-01

How does past experience influence visual search strategy (i.e., attentional set)? Recent reports have shown that, when given the option to use 1 of 2 attentional sets, observers persist with the set previously required in a training phase. Here, 2 related questions are addressed. First, does the training effect result only from perseveration with…

Zones of Intervention: Teaching and Learning at All Places and at All Times

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Taylor, Jonathan E.; McKissac, Jonathan C.

2014-01-01

This article identifies four distinct zones in which workplace problems can be addressed through education and training. These zones enable educators to address workplace learning more widely and broadly. Very often, problems arising in the workplace are dealt with through training in the classroom, but other options exist. The theoretical…

In Their Words: Student Choice in Training Markets--Victorian Examples. NCVER Research Report

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brown, Justin

2017-01-01

This research offers insights into the options available to individuals as they navigate the vocational education and training (VET) market. Importantly, this study directly represents the voice of students, asking how their choices were made and whether their choice was sufficiently "informed." The student voice is contrasted with…

Creating Better Educational and Employment Opportunities for Rural Young People.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kenyon, Peter; Sercombe, Howard; Black, Alan; Lhuede, Dominica

This study explores current education, training, and employment issues and opportunities for rural youth in Australia, and suggests ways in which relevant education, training, and employment options and prospects can be generated for rural youth. Specifically, this study documents the ways that economic and social changes in rural communities have…

Using Videoconferencing to Create Authentic Online Learning for Volunteers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lobley, Jennifer; Ouellette, Kristy L.

2017-01-01

Face-to-face training for Extension volunteers is no longer the only viable delivery mode. In times of rapid technological advances, we are faced with a plethora of options for offering volunteers the training and support they need. Zoom, an online videoconferencing platform, can easily be used to engage volunteers in professional development.…

Enabling SMEs to Deliver Synchronous Online Training--Practical Guidelines

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Taran, Carmen

2006-01-01

Purpose: While synchronous and asynchronous distance education options have fulfilled the promise to reduce travel costs and decrease the number of human resources necessary for training delivery, many corporations are faced with the need to produce learning even at a faster pace in order to gain and sustain competitive advantage. This means a…

Cooperative Driver Education and Safety Training. Instructor's Guide.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Seyfarth, John T.; And Others

The program, designed to give the driver-training pupil a semester of 50 hours of instruction, involves four instructional phases, one of them optional to give flexibility to fit the varying needs of different school systems: Phase 1--the classroom phase, with 30 instructional hours devoted to 30 specific events, staggered at each school…

Auditory Learning Using a Portable Real-Time Vocoder: Preliminary Findings

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Casserly, Elizabeth D.; Pisoni, David B.

2015-01-01

Purpose: Although traditional study of auditory training has been in controlled laboratory settings, interest has been increasing in more interactive options. The authors examine whether such interactive training can result in short-term perceptual learning, and the range of perceptual skills it impacts. Method: Experiments 1 (N = 37) and 2 (N =…

Manatee County Displaced Homemakers Program. Final Report from July 1, 1983 to August 31, 1984.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Joynes, Margot

In the Displaced Homemaker project at the New Options Center in Manatee County, Bradenton, Florida, clients were displaced homemakers, single household heads needing training, homemakers seeking full-time employment, and anyone interested in jobs or training nontraditional to his/her sex. Various outreach methods--public service announcements,…

VET in Schools 2016. Australian Vocational Education and Training Statistics

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER), 2017

2017-01-01

This publication presents information on VET in Schools, the vocational education and training (VET) undertaken by school students as part of their senior secondary certificate of education. The VET in Schools arrangement offers two main options: students can undertake school-based apprenticeships and traineeships; or they can take VET subjects…

Medical training fails to prepare providers to care for patients with chronic hepatitis B infection

PubMed Central

Chao, Stephanie D; Wang, Bing-Mei; Chang, Ellen T; Ma, Li; So, Samuel K

2015-01-01

AIM: To investigate physicians’ knowledge including chronic hepatitis B (CHB) diagnosis, screening, and management in various stages of their training. METHODS: A voluntary 20-question survey was administered in Santa Clara County, CA where Asian and Pacific Islanders (API) account for a third of the population. Among the 219 physician participants, there were 63 interns, 60 second-year residents, 26 chief residents and 70 attending physicians. The survey asked questions regarding respondents’ demographics, general hepatitis B virus knowledge questions (i.e., transmission, prevalence, diagnostic testing, prevention, and treatment options), as well as, self-reported practice behavior and confidence in knowledge. RESULTS: Knowledge about screening and managing patients with CHB was poor: only 24% identified the correct tests to screen for CHB, 13% knew the next steps for patients testing positive for CHB, 18% knew the high prevalence rate among API, and 31% knew how to screen for liver cancer. Wald chi-square analysis determined the effect of training level on knowledge; in all cases except for knowledge of liver cancer screening (P = 0.0032), knowledge did not significantly increase with length in residency training or completion of residency. CONCLUSION: Even in a high-risk region, both medical school and residency training have not adequately prepared physicians in the screening and management of CHB. PMID:26078568

A Depression Training Session With Consumer Educators to Reduce Stigmatizing Views and Improve Pharmacists’ Depression Care Attitudes and Practices

PubMed Central

Smits, Tim; Laekeman, Gert; Foulon, Veerle

2013-01-01

Objective. To measure the impact of a depression training day for pharmacists that included a 75-minute session with a consumer educator. Design. The training day included interactive lectures on depression; the effects and side effects of and indications for the use of antidepressants; adherence issues; non-drug treatment options for depression; and basic skills in communication. Pharmacists also participated in a session with a consumer educator and in counseling exercises that included role playing. Assessment. The study used a randomized, clustered, comparative design to measure pharmacists' stigma, attitudes, and current practice related to the provision of pharmaceutical care to people with depression. Mean scores for depression-care practice after the training session were significantly higher in the intervention group than in the control group. Analysis of the changes between baseline and postintervention measures in both the control and intervention groups confirmed a significant difference in the change in both social distance and practice but no significant difference in the change in attitude between the 2 groups of pharmacists. Conclusion. A continuing-education depression training day for pharmacists that involve consumer educators may improve the care delivered in the community pharmacy to people with depression. PMID:23966723

Survey of United States neurosurgical residency program directors.

PubMed

Lunsford, L Dade; Kassam, Amin; Chang, Yue-Fang

2004-02-01

The field of neurosurgery in the United States faces many challenges. Neurosurgical program directors in the United States represent a logical source for inquiries about manpower issues, the training process, and Residency Review Committee (RRC) oversight. Ninety-one active residency program directors were sent an anonymous 31-question survey. The respondents were given the option of adding additional comments. The questions were designed to address issues related to manpower, the training process, and RRC governance. Sixty-one responses were returned before an email reminder and 11 after the reminder (a total response rate of 79%). The data were entered into a database, and a descriptive analysis, with frequency distribution, was performed. The purpose of this review was to gain a preliminary understanding of the perceptions of program directors regarding the neurosurgical training process, the RRC, the oversight process, and projected manpower needs. A 79% response rate is high for a mail survey and likely reflects heightened concern and interest in such issues. The survey responses indicate general satisfaction with the role and governance of the RRC, significantly divergent perceptions of resident output and available positions, and serious concerns regarding the current training process. This survey suggests that a broader discussion of resident training issues would be valuable, perhaps using validated survey instruments.

Precision Approach Radar Training System (PARTS) Training Effectiveness Evaluation

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-08-01

as complex as PARTS, the many interactions between hardware and software could lead to such intermittent problems. Finding the sources of these...provided with the opportunity to excercise some training options such as selecting practice or review when they feel it necessary. This is not to suggest...Replay had a fast -forward". Because "Replay with Errors" is important for learning, students should not be discouraged from selecting it by the

Social Network Analysis and Mining to Monitor and Identify Problems with Large-Scale Information and Communication Technology Interventions

PubMed Central

da Silva, Aleksandra do Socorro; de Brito, Silvana Rossy; Vijaykumar, Nandamudi Lankalapalli; da Rocha, Cláudio Alex Jorge; Monteiro, Maurílio de Abreu; Costa, João Crisóstomo Weyl Albuquerque; Francês, Carlos Renato Lisboa

2016-01-01

The published literature reveals several arguments concerning the strategic importance of information and communication technology (ICT) interventions for developing countries where the digital divide is a challenge. Large-scale ICT interventions can be an option for countries whose regions, both urban and rural, present a high number of digitally excluded people. Our goal was to monitor and identify problems in interventions aimed at certification for a large number of participants in different geographical regions. Our case study is the training at the Telecentros.BR, a program created in Brazil to install telecenters and certify individuals to use ICT resources. We propose an approach that applies social network analysis and mining techniques to data collected from Telecentros.BR dataset and from the socioeconomics and telecommunications infrastructure indicators of the participants’ municipalities. We found that (i) the analysis of interactions in different time periods reflects the objectives of each phase of training, highlighting the increased density in the phase in which participants develop and disseminate their projects; (ii) analysis according to the roles of participants (i.e., tutors or community members) reveals that the interactions were influenced by the center (or region) to which the participant belongs (that is, a community contained mainly members of the same region and always with the presence of tutors, contradicting expectations of the training project, which aimed for intense collaboration of the participants, regardless of the geographic region); (iii) the social network of participants influences the success of the training: that is, given evidence that the degree of the community member is in the highest range, the probability of this individual concluding the training is 0.689; (iv) the North region presented the lowest probability of participant certification, whereas the Northeast, which served municipalities with similar characteristics, presented high probability of certification, associated with the highest degree in social networking platform. PMID:26727472

Social Network Analysis and Mining to Monitor and Identify Problems with Large-Scale Information and Communication Technology Interventions.

PubMed

da Silva, Aleksandra do Socorro; de Brito, Silvana Rossy; Vijaykumar, Nandamudi Lankalapalli; da Rocha, Cláudio Alex Jorge; Monteiro, Maurílio de Abreu; Costa, João Crisóstomo Weyl Albuquerque; Francês, Carlos Renato Lisboa

2016-01-01

The published literature reveals several arguments concerning the strategic importance of information and communication technology (ICT) interventions for developing countries where the digital divide is a challenge. Large-scale ICT interventions can be an option for countries whose regions, both urban and rural, present a high number of digitally excluded people. Our goal was to monitor and identify problems in interventions aimed at certification for a large number of participants in different geographical regions. Our case study is the training at the Telecentros.BR, a program created in Brazil to install telecenters and certify individuals to use ICT resources. We propose an approach that applies social network analysis and mining techniques to data collected from Telecentros.BR dataset and from the socioeconomics and telecommunications infrastructure indicators of the participants' municipalities. We found that (i) the analysis of interactions in different time periods reflects the objectives of each phase of training, highlighting the increased density in the phase in which participants develop and disseminate their projects; (ii) analysis according to the roles of participants (i.e., tutors or community members) reveals that the interactions were influenced by the center (or region) to which the participant belongs (that is, a community contained mainly members of the same region and always with the presence of tutors, contradicting expectations of the training project, which aimed for intense collaboration of the participants, regardless of the geographic region); (iii) the social network of participants influences the success of the training: that is, given evidence that the degree of the community member is in the highest range, the probability of this individual concluding the training is 0.689; (iv) the North region presented the lowest probability of participant certification, whereas the Northeast, which served municipalities with similar characteristics, presented high probability of certification, associated with the highest degree in social networking platform.

Code inspection instructional validation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Orr, Kay; Stancil, Shirley

1992-01-01

The Shuttle Data Systems Branch (SDSB) of the Flight Data Systems Division (FDSD) at Johnson Space Center contracted with Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) to validate the effectiveness of an interactive video course on the code inspection process. The purpose of this project was to determine if this course could be effective for teaching NASA analysts the process of code inspection. In addition, NASA was interested in the effectiveness of this unique type of instruction (Digital Video Interactive), for providing training on software processes. This study found the Carnegie Mellon course, 'A Cure for the Common Code', effective for teaching the process of code inspection. In addition, analysts prefer learning with this method of instruction, or this method in combination with other methods. As is, the course is definitely better than no course at all; however, findings indicate changes are needed. Following are conclusions of this study. (1) The course is instructionally effective. (2) The simulation has a positive effect on student's confidence in his ability to apply new knowledge. (3) Analysts like the course and prefer this method of training, or this method in combination with current methods of training in code inspection, over the way training is currently being conducted. (4) Analysts responded favorably to information presented through scenarios incorporating full motion video. (5) Some course content needs to be changed. (6) Some content needs to be added to the course. SwRI believes this study indicates interactive video instruction combined with simulation is effective for teaching software processes. Based on the conclusions of this study, SwRI has outlined seven options for NASA to consider. SwRI recommends the option which involves creation of new source code and data files, but uses much of the existing content and design from the current course. Although this option involves a significant software development effort, SwRI believes this option will produce the most effective results.

Options in Education, Transcript for November 3, 1975: College Enrollment, Standardized Testing, Hyperactive Children, Teacher Strikes, and Training to Be a Professional Golfer.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

George Washington Univ., Washington, DC. Inst. for Educational Leadership.

"Options in Education" is a radio news program which focuses on issues and developments in education. This transcript of the first show contains discussions of college enrollment, the controversy over standardized testing, hyperactivity in school children, the rash of teacher strikes, and how to become a professional golfer. Participants…

Evaluation Report of the Presidential/Secretarial Objective -- School Management Options Available to Indian People. Research and Evaluation Report Series No. 29.08.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Indian Training and Research Center, Tempe, AZ.

Presenting evaluations of the Bureau of Indian Affairs' (BIA) implementation of the School Management Option Project, a project designed to further American Indian control of schools and elevated to the status of Presidential/Secretarial Objective (P/SO) in 1974, this report includes separate evaluations by the National Indian Training and…

Interest Rates and Coupon Bonds in Quantum Finance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baaquie, Belal E.

2009-09-01

1. Synopsis; 2. Interest rates and coupon bonds; 3. Options and option theory; 4. Interest rate and coupon bond options; 5. Quantum field theory of bond forward interest rates; 6. Libor Market Model of interest rates; 7. Empirical analysis of forward interest rates; 8. Libor Market Model of interest rate options; 9. Numeraires for bond forward interest rates; 10. Empirical analysis of interest rate caps; 11. Coupon bond European and Asian options; 12. Empirical analysis of interest rate swaptions; 13. Correlation of coupon bond options; 14. Hedging interest rate options; 15. Interest rate Hamiltonian and option theory; 16. American options for coupon bonds and interest rates; 17. Hamiltonian derivation of coupon bond options; Appendixes; Glossaries; List of symbols; Reference; Index.

Acceptability of Mental Health Stigma-Reduction Training and Initial Effects on Awareness Among Military Personnel

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-10-13

attitudes. The primary limitation in this study was the one - group pretest – posttest design for the assessment of change in stigma awareness. The results...participated in a pretest , 2‑h stigma‑reduction training and immediate posttest . Acceptability of the training was measured by querying participants about...SpringerPlus (2015) 4:606 concern and how to conduct a group discussion about confidentiality and treatment options based on a segment from the

Navy-Wide Personnel Survey (NPS) 1992: Statistical Tables for Officers

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-08-01

PERCENTS DO NOT KNOW OPTION OMITTED 440 OFFICER 2693 LUDRSUIP: WORK GROUP LZSTIS AND RZEPCDS TO NY PROULDS Q1 azm KALE FEMALE DONT KNOW 3.0% 3.0% N 97 15...dining facilities make 3.1 Yes, other military service training available fruit, vegetables , 11.8 Yes, civilian (local community) training. low fat meat

A Randomized Clinical Trial of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy versus Progressive Relaxation Training for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Twohig, Michael P.; Hayes, Steven C.; Plumb, Jennifer C.; Pruitt, Larry D.; Collins, Angela B.; Hazlett-Stevens, Holly; Woidneck, Michelle R.

2010-01-01

Objective: Effective treatments for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) exist, but additional treatment options are needed. The effectiveness of 8 sessions of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) for adult OCD was compared with progressive relaxation training (PRT). Method: Seventy-nine adults (61% female) diagnosed with OCD (mean age = 37…

The Indian Vocational Education and Training (VET) System: Status, Challenges, and Options

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kotamraju, Pradeep

2014-01-01

India is at the cusp of becoming an economic powerhouse. For that to happen, however, the country needs to alter its workforce education system by reengineering the Indian Vocational Education and Training (VET) System. India's VET strategy includes creating basic work-centered common curriculum for the unskilled; developing a more flexible and…

Supporting School System Leaders: The State of Effective Training Programs for School Superintendents

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Teitel, Lee

2006-01-01

The current report explores what is available to superintendents after they assume their positions: what the landscape of sustained executive training and support options available for sitting school system leaders looks like. It describes about two dozen programs offered around the country-who offers them, how they are organized and funded, what…

Medical Student Views of Substance Abuse Treatment, Policy and Training

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Agrawal, Shantanu; Everett, Worth W.; Sharma, Sonali

2010-01-01

Purpose: This study examined the impact of medical education on students' views of substance abuse treatment, public policy options and training. Method: A longitudinal survey was conducted on a single-class cohort of 101 students in a major American, urban medical school. The survey was administered in the Spring semesters of the first to third…

Preparing for High Technology: CAD/CAM Programs. Research & Development Series No. 234.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Abram, Robert; And Others

This guide is one of three developed to provide information and resources to assist in planning and developing postsecondary technican training programs in high technology areas. It is specifically intended for vocational-technical educators and planners in the initial stages of planning a specialized training option in computer-aided design (CAD)…

Evaluation of Two Instruction Methods to Increase Employment Options for Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Burke, Raymond V.; Andersen, Melissa N.; Bowen, Scott L.; Howard, Monica R.; Allen, Keith D.

2010-01-01

We evaluated the efficacy of a vocational training program including behavioral skills training, and a "performance cue system" (i.e., a proprietary iPhone application adapted for the study) to teach targeted social-vocational skills to six young adults with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. In two separate studies, participants were employed…

Endorsement of Couples Counseling in a Domestic Violence Case as a Function of Training

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bapat, Mona; Tracey, Terence

2009-01-01

Reactions of students in helping professions to domestic violence were examined with respect to whether or not the students had any training in domestic violence. One hundred, four students read one of two vignettes describing a domestic violence case and responded to statements related to treatment options. The vignettes differed only in…

A Model To Address Design Constraints of Training Delivered via Satellite. Study Number Eight.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Montler, Joseph; Geroy, Gary D.

This document: summarizes how some companies are addressing the design constraints involved in using satellite technology to deliver training, presents a model aimed at examining cost effectiveness of the satellite option, and includes a guide to designing instructional materials for delivery by satellite. A survey of 39 organizations, 12…

Eating disorders, energy intake, training volume, and menstrual function in high-level modern rhythmic gymnasts.

PubMed

Sundgot-Borgen, J

1996-06-01

This study examined clinical and subclinical eating disorders (EDs) in young Norwegian modern rhythmic gymnasts. Subjects were 12 members of the national team, age 13-20 years, and individually matched nonathletic controls. All subjects participated in a structured clinical interview for EDs, medical examination, and dietary analysis. Two of the gymnasts met the DSM-III-R criteria for anorexia nervosa, and 2 met the criteria for anorexia athletica (a subclinical ED). All the gymnasts were dieting in spite of the fact that they were all extremely lean. The avoidance of maturity, menstrual irregularities, energy deficit, high training volume, and high frequency of injuries were common features among the gymnasts. Ther is a need to learn more about risk factors and the etiology of EDs in different sports. Coaches, parents, and athletes need more information about principles of proper nutrition and methods to achieve ideal body composition for optional health and athletic performance.

Differential Involvement of the Agranular vs Granular Insular Cortex in the Acquisition and Performance of Choice Behavior in a Rodent Gambling Task

PubMed Central

Pushparaj, Abhiram; Kim, Aaron S; Musiol, Martin; Zangen, Abraham; Daskalakis, Zafiris J; Zack, Martin; Winstanley, Catharine A; Le Foll, Bernard

2015-01-01

Substance-related and addictive disorders, in particular gambling disorder, are known to be associated with risky decision-making behavior. Several neuroimaging studies have identified the involvement of the insular cortex in decision-making under risk. However, the extent of this involvement remains unclear and the specific contributions of two distinct insular subregions, the rostral agranular (RAIC) and the caudal granular (CGIC), have yet to be examined. Animals were trained to perform a rat gambling task (rGT), in which subjects chose between four options that differed in the magnitude and probability of rewards and penalties. In order to address the roles of the RAIC and CGIC in established choice behavior, pharmacological inactivations of these two subregions via local infusions of GABA receptor agonists were performed following 30 rGT training sessions. The contribution made by the RAIC or CGIC to the acquisition of choice behavior was also determined by lesioning these areas before behavioral training. Inactivation of the RAIC, but not of the CGIC, shifted rats' preference toward options with greater reward frequency and lower punishment. Before rGT acquisition, lesions of the RAIC, but not the CGIC, likewise resulted in a higher preference for options with greater reward frequency and lower punishment, and this persisted throughout the 30 training sessions. Our results provide confirmation of the involvement of the RAIC in rGT choice behavior and suggest that the RAIC may mediate detrimental risky decision-making behavior, such as that associated with addiction and gambling disorder. PMID:25953358

Differential Involvement of the Agranular vs Granular Insular Cortex in the Acquisition and Performance of Choice Behavior in a Rodent Gambling Task.

PubMed

Pushparaj, Abhiram; Kim, Aaron S; Musiol, Martin; Zangen, Abraham; Daskalakis, Zafiris J; Zack, Martin; Winstanley, Catharine A; Le Foll, Bernard

2015-11-01

Substance-related and addictive disorders, in particular gambling disorder, are known to be associated with risky decision-making behavior. Several neuroimaging studies have identified the involvement of the insular cortex in decision-making under risk. However, the extent of this involvement remains unclear and the specific contributions of two distinct insular subregions, the rostral agranular (RAIC) and the caudal granular (CGIC), have yet to be examined. Animals were trained to perform a rat gambling task (rGT), in which subjects chose between four options that differed in the magnitude and probability of rewards and penalties. In order to address the roles of the RAIC and CGIC in established choice behavior, pharmacological inactivations of these two subregions via local infusions of GABA receptor agonists were performed following 30 rGT training sessions. The contribution made by the RAIC or CGIC to the acquisition of choice behavior was also determined by lesioning these areas before behavioral training. Inactivation of the RAIC, but not of the CGIC, shifted rats' preference toward options with greater reward frequency and lower punishment. Before rGT acquisition, lesions of the RAIC, but not the CGIC, likewise resulted in a higher preference for options with greater reward frequency and lower punishment, and this persisted throughout the 30 training sessions. Our results provide confirmation of the involvement of the RAIC in rGT choice behavior and suggest that the RAIC may mediate detrimental risky decision-making behavior, such as that associated with addiction and gambling disorder.

Of responsible research-Exploring the science-society dialogue in undergraduate training within the life sciences.

PubMed

Almeida, Maria Strecht; Quintanilha, Alexandre

2017-01-02

We explore the integration of societal issues in undergraduate training within the life sciences. Skills in thinking about science, scientific knowledge production and the place of science in society are crucial in the context of the idea of responsible research and innovation. This idea became institutionalized and it is currently well-present in the scientific agenda. Developing abilities in this regard seems particularly relevant to training in the life sciences, as new developments in this area somehow evoke the involvement of all of us citizens, our engagement to debate and take part in processes of change. The present analysis draws from the implementation of a curricular unit focused on science-society dialogue, an optional course included in the Biochemistry Degree study plan offered at the University of Porto. This curricular unit was designed to be mostly an exploratory activity for the students, enabling them to undertake in-depth study in areas/topics of their specific interest. Mapping topics from students' final papers provided a means of analysis and became a useful tool in the exploratory collaborative construction of the course. We discuss both the relevance and the opportunity of thinking and questioning the science-society dialogue. As part of undergraduate training, this pedagogical practice was deemed successful. © 2016 by The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 45(1):46-52, 2017. © 2016 The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.

[Recommendations for problem solving in integrative postgraduate medical training of physicians at anthroposophic hospitals in Germany and Switzerland].

PubMed

Eberhard, Sabine; Weinzirl, Johannes; Orlow, Pascale; Berger, Bettina; Heusser, Peter

2014-01-01

In the context of the first-time evaluation of the quality and problems of integrative postgraduate medical training (PGMT) at German and Swiss anthroposophic hospitals, all 240 trainees and all 214 trainers were asked to propose options for problem solutions. The study included a cross-sectional questionnaire survey with sections for further comments. The data were evaluated with qualitative content analysis (Mayring). 56 (51.8%) out of 108 responding trainees and 54 (54%) out of 100 responding trainers had given potential solutions. Both groups were analyzed together. On internal level, recommendations comprised re-orientation on a leadership basis, i.e. elevation of PGMT to a core element of hospital policy in anthroposophic medicine (AM), as well as better personnel policy; trainers with more professional and teaching competency in AM; structured and extended continual education program; coordination of PGMT with ward and hospital organization; and work load reduction for physicians through process optimization and resource planning. Externally, the recommendations embraced financial support; external training programs; networking of anthroposophic hospitals in PGMT; implementation of a common competence center for anthroposophic PGMT; conventional and anthroposophic PGMT curriculums; and improvement of science base and public discourse of AM. The proposed options for problem solving in PGMT at anthroposophic hospitals emerge from concrete problem perceptions of the trainers and trainees. They can serve as a basis for concrete improvements of PGMT in AM that could be implemented professionally and in an international context. The preconditions for this are given through the already existing establishment of AM at universities and through the good international connections of anthroposophic hospitals and anthroposophic physicians' associations.

Comparison between three option, four option and five option multiple choice question tests for quality parameters: A randomized study.

PubMed

Vegada, Bhavisha; Shukla, Apexa; Khilnani, Ajeetkumar; Charan, Jaykaran; Desai, Chetna

2016-01-01

Most of the academic teachers use four or five options per item of multiple choice question (MCQ) test as formative and summative assessment. Optimal number of options in MCQ item is a matter of considerable debate among academic teachers of various educational fields. There is a scarcity of the published literature regarding the optimum number of option in each item of MCQ in the field of medical education. To compare three options, four options, and five options MCQs test for the quality parameters - reliability, validity, item analysis, distracter analysis, and time analysis. Participants were 3 rd semester M.B.B.S. students. Students were divided randomly into three groups. Each group was given one set of MCQ test out of three options, four options, and five option randomly. Following the marking of the multiple choice tests, the participants' option selections were analyzed and comparisons were conducted of the mean marks, mean time, validity, reliability and facility value, discrimination index, point biserial value, distracter analysis of three different option formats. Students score more ( P = 0.000) and took less time ( P = 0.009) for the completion of three options as compared to four options and five options groups. Facility value was more ( P = 0.004) in three options group as compared to four and five options groups. There was no significant difference between three groups for the validity, reliability, and item discrimination. Nonfunctioning distracters were more in the four and five options group as compared to three option group. Assessment based on three option MCQs is can be preferred over four option and five option MCQs.

GProX, a user-friendly platform for bioinformatics analysis and visualization of quantitative proteomics data.

PubMed

Rigbolt, Kristoffer T G; Vanselow, Jens T; Blagoev, Blagoy

2011-08-01

Recent technological advances have made it possible to identify and quantify thousands of proteins in a single proteomics experiment. As a result of these developments, the analysis of data has become the bottleneck of proteomics experiment. To provide the proteomics community with a user-friendly platform for comprehensive analysis, inspection and visualization of quantitative proteomics data we developed the Graphical Proteomics Data Explorer (GProX)(1). The program requires no special bioinformatics training, as all functions of GProX are accessible within its graphical user-friendly interface which will be intuitive to most users. Basic features facilitate the uncomplicated management and organization of large data sets and complex experimental setups as well as the inspection and graphical plotting of quantitative data. These are complemented by readily available high-level analysis options such as database querying, clustering based on abundance ratios, feature enrichment tests for e.g. GO terms and pathway analysis tools. A number of plotting options for visualization of quantitative proteomics data is available and most analysis functions in GProX create customizable high quality graphical displays in both vector and bitmap formats. The generic import requirements allow data originating from essentially all mass spectrometry platforms, quantitation strategies and software to be analyzed in the program. GProX represents a powerful approach to proteomics data analysis providing proteomics experimenters with a toolbox for bioinformatics analysis of quantitative proteomics data. The program is released as open-source and can be freely downloaded from the project webpage at http://gprox.sourceforge.net.

GProX, a User-Friendly Platform for Bioinformatics Analysis and Visualization of Quantitative Proteomics Data*

PubMed Central

Rigbolt, Kristoffer T. G.; Vanselow, Jens T.; Blagoev, Blagoy

2011-01-01

Recent technological advances have made it possible to identify and quantify thousands of proteins in a single proteomics experiment. As a result of these developments, the analysis of data has become the bottleneck of proteomics experiment. To provide the proteomics community with a user-friendly platform for comprehensive analysis, inspection and visualization of quantitative proteomics data we developed the Graphical Proteomics Data Explorer (GProX)1. The program requires no special bioinformatics training, as all functions of GProX are accessible within its graphical user-friendly interface which will be intuitive to most users. Basic features facilitate the uncomplicated management and organization of large data sets and complex experimental setups as well as the inspection and graphical plotting of quantitative data. These are complemented by readily available high-level analysis options such as database querying, clustering based on abundance ratios, feature enrichment tests for e.g. GO terms and pathway analysis tools. A number of plotting options for visualization of quantitative proteomics data is available and most analysis functions in GProX create customizable high quality graphical displays in both vector and bitmap formats. The generic import requirements allow data originating from essentially all mass spectrometry platforms, quantitation strategies and software to be analyzed in the program. GProX represents a powerful approach to proteomics data analysis providing proteomics experimenters with a toolbox for bioinformatics analysis of quantitative proteomics data. The program is released as open-source and can be freely downloaded from the project webpage at http://gprox.sourceforge.net. PMID:21602510

Attitudes on cost-effectiveness and equity: a cross-sectional study examining the viewpoints of medical professionals

PubMed Central

Li, David G; Wong, Gordon X; Martin, David T; Tybor, David J; Kim, Jennifer; Lasker, Jeffrey; Mitty, Roger; Salem, Deeb

2017-01-01

Objective To determine the attitudes of physicians and trainees in regard to the roles of both cost-effectiveness and equity in clinical decision making. Design In this cross-sectional study, electronic surveys containing a hypothetical decision-making scenario were sent to medical professionals to select between two colon cancer screening tests for a population. Setting Three Greater Boston academic medical institutions: Tufts University School of Medicine, Tufts Medical Centre and Lahey Hospital and Medical Centre. Participants 819 medical students, 497 residents-in-training and 671 practising physicians were contacted electronically using institutional and organisational directories. Main outcome(s) and measure(s) Stratified opinions of medical providers and trainee subgroups regarding cost-effectiveness and equity. Results A total of 881 respondents comprising 512 medical students, 133 medical residents-in-training and 236 practising physicians completed the survey (total response rate 44.3%). Thirty-six per cent of medical students, 44% of residents-in-training and 53% of practising physicians favoured the less effective and more equitable screening test. Residents-in-training (OR 1.49, CI 1.01 to 2.21; p=0.044) and practising physicians (OR 2.12, CI 1.54 to 2.92; p<0.001) were more likely to favour the equitable option compared with medical students. Moreover, female responders across all three cohorts favoured the more equitable screening test to a greater degree than did male responders (OR 1.70, CI 1.29 to 2.24; p<0.001). Conclusions Cost-effectiveness analysis does not accurately reflect the importance that medical professionals place on equity. Among medical professionals, practising physicians appear to be more egalitarian than residents-in-training, while medical students appear to be most utilitarian and cost-effective. Meanwhile, female respondents in all three cohorts favoured the more equitable option to a greater degree than their male counterparts. Healthcare policies that trade off equity in favour of cost-effectiveness may be unacceptable to many medical professionals, especially practising physicians and women. PMID:28765138

Attitudes on cost-effectiveness and equity: a cross-sectional study examining the viewpoints of medical professionals.

PubMed

Li, David G; Wong, Gordon X; Martin, David T; Tybor, David J; Kim, Jennifer; Lasker, Jeffrey; Mitty, Roger; Salem, Deeb

2017-08-01

To determine the attitudes of physicians and trainees in regard to the roles of both cost-effectiveness and equity in clinical decision making. In this cross-sectional study, electronic surveys containing a hypothetical decision-making scenario were sent to medical professionals to select between two colon cancer screening tests for a population. Three Greater Boston academic medical institutions: Tufts University School of Medicine, Tufts Medical Centre and Lahey Hospital and Medical Centre. 819 medical students, 497 residents-in-training and 671 practising physicians were contacted electronically using institutional and organisational directories. Stratified opinions of medical providers and trainee subgroups regarding cost-effectiveness and equity. A total of 881 respondents comprising 512 medical students, 133 medical residents-in-training and 236 practising physicians completed the survey (total response rate 44.3%). Thirty-six per cent of medical students, 44% of residents-in-training and 53% of practising physicians favoured the less effective and more equitable screening test. Residents-in-training (OR 1.49, CI 1.01 to 2.21; p=0.044) and practising physicians (OR 2.12, CI 1.54 to 2.92; p<0.001) were more likely to favour the equitable option compared with medical students. Moreover, female responders across all three cohorts favoured the more equitable screening test to a greater degree than did male responders (OR 1.70, CI 1.29 to 2.24; p<0.001). Cost-effectiveness analysis does not accurately reflect the importance that medical professionals place on equity. Among medical professionals, practising physicians appear to be more egalitarian than residents-in-training, while medical students appear to be most utilitarian and cost-effective. Meanwhile, female respondents in all three cohorts favoured the more equitable option to a greater degree than their male counterparts. Healthcare policies that trade off equity in favour of cost-effectiveness may be unacceptable to many medical professionals, especially practising physicians and women. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Web-based training for primary healthcare workers in rural China: a qualitative exploration of stakeholders' perceptions.

PubMed

Zhang, Zhixia; Zhan, Xingxin; Li, Yingxue; Hu, Rong; Yan, Weirong

2015-01-01

Equitable access to basic public health services is a priority in China. However, primary healthcare workers' competence to deliver public health services is relatively poor because they lack professional training. Since the availability of web-based training has increased in China, the current study explored stakeholders' perceptions of a web-based training program on basic public health services to understand their thoughts, experiences, and attitudes about it. Six focus group discussions with primary healthcare workers and three with directors of township hospitals, county-level Health Bureaus, and county-level Centers for Disease Control and Prevention were conducted in Yichang City during 2013. Semi-structured topic guides were used to facilitate qualitative data collection. Audio recordings of the sessions were transcribed verbatim and theme analysis was performed. Most of the study's participants, especially the village doctors, had insufficient knowledge of basic public health services. The existing training program for primary healthcare workers consisted of ineffective traditional face-to-face sessions and often posed accessibility problems for the trainees. Most of the study's participants had a positive attitude about web-based learning and expressed a strong desire to receive this novel training approach because of its flexibility and convenience. The perceived barriers to utilizing the web-based training method included poor computer literacy, lack of personal interaction, inadequate infrastructure, and lack of time and motivation. The facilitators of this approach included the training content applicability, the user-friendly and interactive learning format, and policy support. Web-based training on basic public health services is a promising option in rural China. The findings of the study will contribute knowledge to implementation of web-based training in similar settings.

Web-Based Training for Primary Healthcare Workers in Rural China: A Qualitative Exploration of Stakeholders’ Perceptions

PubMed Central

Zhang, Zhixia; Zhan, Xingxin; Li, Yingxue; Hu, Rong; Yan, Weirong

2015-01-01

Background Equitable access to basic public health services is a priority in China. However, primary healthcare workers’ competence to deliver public health services is relatively poor because they lack professional training. Since the availability of web-based training has increased in China, the current study explored stakeholders’ perceptions of a web-based training program on basic public health services to understand their thoughts, experiences, and attitudes about it. Methods Six focus group discussions with primary healthcare workers and three with directors of township hospitals, county-level Health Bureaus, and county-level Centers for Disease Control and Prevention were conducted in Yichang City during 2013. Semi-structured topic guides were used to facilitate qualitative data collection. Audio recordings of the sessions were transcribed verbatim and theme analysis was performed. Results Most of the study’s participants, especially the village doctors, had insufficient knowledge of basic public health services. The existing training program for primary healthcare workers consisted of ineffective traditional face-to-face sessions and often posed accessibility problems for the trainees. Most of the study’s participants had a positive attitude about web-based learning and expressed a strong desire to receive this novel training approach because of its flexibility and convenience. The perceived barriers to utilizing the web-based training method included poor computer literacy, lack of personal interaction, inadequate infrastructure, and lack of time and motivation. The facilitators of this approach included the training content applicability, the user-friendly and interactive learning format, and policy support. Conclusions Web-based training on basic public health services is a promising option in rural China. The findings of the study will contribute knowledge to implementation of web-based training in similar settings. PMID:25961727

Soil compaction effects of forwarding and its relationship with 6- and 8-wheel drive machines

Treesearch

Fernando Seixas; Tim McDonald

1997-01-01

A study was done to determine the impact, if any, of a range of drive train options on the soil compaction effects of forwarders. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the cost of optional forwarder equipment versus its ability to reduce detrimental soil physical property changes. Tests were done on forwarders equipped with wide and narrow tires, rear steel tracks,...

Engagement in Retirement: An Evaluation of the Effect of Active Mentoring on Engagement of Older Adults with Intellectual Disability in Mainstream Community Groups

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chng, J. P. L.; Stancliffe, R. J.; Wilson, N. J.; Anderson, K.

2013-01-01

Background: As adults with intellectual disability age, retirement options need to be explored. One option is to attend a mainstream community group for retirees. Support within these groups could come from group members who are trained to act as mentors for the older adults with intellectual disability. This research evaluated a support training…

42 CFR 62.76 - How will amounts of money due under the option under section 204(c)(1) of Public Law 100-177 be...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 42 Public Health 1 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false How will amounts of money due under the option under section 204(c)(1) of Public Law 100-177 be required to be repaid? 62.76 Section 62.76 Public Health PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES FELLOWSHIPS, INTERNSHIPS, TRAINING...

42 CFR 62.76 - How will amounts of money due under the option under section 204(c)(1) of Public Law 100-177 be...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 42 Public Health 1 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false How will amounts of money due under the option under section 204(c)(1) of Public Law 100-177 be required to be repaid? 62.76 Section 62.76 Public Health PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES FELLOWSHIPS, INTERNSHIPS, TRAINING...

42 CFR 62.76 - How will amounts of money due under the option under section 204(c)(1) of Public Law 100-177 be...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 42 Public Health 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false How will amounts of money due under the option under section 204(c)(1) of Public Law 100-177 be required to be repaid? 62.76 Section 62.76 Public Health PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES FELLOWSHIPS, INTERNSHIPS, TRAINING...

42 CFR 62.76 - How will amounts of money due under the option under section 204(c)(1) of Public Law 100-177 be...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 42 Public Health 1 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false How will amounts of money due under the option under section 204(c)(1) of Public Law 100-177 be required to be repaid? 62.76 Section 62.76 Public Health PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES FELLOWSHIPS, INTERNSHIPS, TRAINING...

42 CFR 62.76 - How will amounts of money due under the option under section 204(c)(1) of Public Law 100-177 be...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 42 Public Health 1 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false How will amounts of money due under the option under section 204(c)(1) of Public Law 100-177 be required to be repaid? 62.76 Section 62.76 Public Health PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES FELLOWSHIPS, INTERNSHIPS, TRAINING...

Undergraduate Athletic Training Students' Influences on Career Decisions After Graduation

PubMed Central

Mazerolle, Stephanie M.; Gavin, Kerri E.; Pitney, William A.; Casa, Douglas J.; Burton, Laura

2012-01-01

Context Career opportunities for athletic training students (ATSs) have increased substantially over the past few years. However, ATSs commonly appear to be opting for a more diversified professional experience after graduation. With the diversity in available options, an understanding of career decision is imperative. Objective To use the theoretical framework of socialization to investigate the influential factors behind the postgraduation decisions of senior ATSs. Design Qualitative study. Setting Web-based management system and telephone interviews. Patients or Other Participants Twenty-two ATSs (16 females, 6 males; age = 22 ± 2 years) who graduated in May 2010 from 13 different programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education. Data Collection and Analysis All interviews were transcribed verbatim, and the data were analyzed inductively. Data analysis required independent coding by 2 athletic trainers for specific themes. Credibility of the results was confirmed via peer review, methodologic triangulation, and multiple analyst triangulation. Results Two higher-order themes emerged from the data analysis: persistence in athletic training (AT) and decision to leave AT. Faculty and clinical instructor support, marketability, and professional growth were supporting themes describing persistence in AT. Shift of interest away from AT, lack of respect for the AT profession, compensation, time commitment, and AT as a stepping stone were themes sustaining the reasons that ATSs leave AT. The aforementioned reasons to leave often were discussed collectively, generating a collective undesirable outlook on the AT profession. Conclusions Our results highlight the importance of faculty support, professional growth, and early socialization into AT. Socialization of pre–AT students could alter retention rates by providing in-depth information about the profession before students commit in their undergraduate education and by helping reduce attrition before entrance into the workforce. PMID:23182017

Vocational Education and Training in Greece: Short Description. CEDEFOP Panorama Series.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vretakou, Vassileia; Rousseas, Panagiotis

As in the past, young people in Greece generally consider vocational education and training (VET) a last resort despite the state's continued efforts to promote VET as an option of equal standing and despite the research data showing that VET graduates face fewer difficulties in finding work than general education graduates do. In the past 10…

High-Skill Training: Grants from H-1B Visa Fees Meet Specific Workforce Needs, But at Varying Skill Levels. Report to Congressional Requesters.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

General Accounting Office, Washington, DC. Education, Workforce, and Income Security Issues.

A study examined the skill grant and scholarship grant programs. Findings indicated skill grantees offered training through various service delivery options to people needing skill upgrading; scholarship grantees provided scholarships to low income students for college degree programs in computer science, mathematics, and engineering. The skill…

City and County Solar PV Training Program, Module 1: Goal Setting and Clarification

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

McLaren, Joyce A.

This module will help attendees understand nuances between different types of renewable energy goals, the importance of terminology when setting and announcing goals, the value of formally clarifying priorities, and how priorities may impact procurement options. It is the first training in a series intended to help municipal staff procure solar PV for their land and buildings.

Training Program for Cooperative Student Trainees in Professional Career Options; GS-Trainee-2 to Trainee GS-7.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Coast Guard, Washington, DC. Office of Personnel.

The Student Trainee Work-Study Training and Promotion Plan is designed to furnish the Coast Guard with a long-range program for recruiting, developing, and retaining the best potential professional talent available. Students are selected for participation in the program on the basis of demonstrated scholastic ability and must maintain a relatively…

Successful Placement or Displacement in the Transition from School to Vocational Training: The Case of Lower Secondary School Pupils

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Skrobanek, Jan; Reissig, Birgit; Muller, Matthias

2011-01-01

A system of qualification options has evolved that is complementary to company-based and school-based vocational training. Thus far, these alternatives have been largely disregarded by vocational education research. Yet with respect to the number of annual entries, those alternatives are currently nearly as significant as conventional vocational…

An Overview of Vocational Education and Training in Australia and Its Links to the Labour Market

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Knight, Brian; Mlotkowski, Peter

2009-01-01

Understanding Australia's vocational education and training (VET) system can be daunting for observers. This paper, written as a background paper for a visit from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), describes Australia's VET system and how it relates to the broader set of education and learning options that are…

Using Video Modeling with Voice-over Instruction to Train Public School Staff to Implement a Preference Assessment.

PubMed

Bovi, Gina M Delli; Vladescu, Jason C; DeBar, Ruth M; Carroll, Regina A; Sarokoff, Randi A

2017-03-01

The identification of putative reinforcers is a critical component of programming for individuals with disabilities. A multiple stimulus without replacement preference assessment is one option for identifying putative reinforcers; however, staff must be trained on the steps necessary to conduct the assessment for it to be useful in practice. This study examined the effectiveness of using video modeling with voice-over instruction (VMVO) to train two public school staff to conduct this assessment. Results demonstrate that VMVO was effective in training, producing generalized responding, maintenance, and high social validity ratings.

Radar System Characterization Extended to Hardware-in-the-Loop Simulation for the Lab-Volt (Trademark) Training System

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-09-01

devices such as klystrons , magnetrons, and traveling wave tubes. These microwave devices produce high power levels but may have limited bandwidths [20...diagram. The specific arrangement of components within a RADAR transmitter varies with operational specifications. Two options exist to produce high power ...cascading to generate sufficient power [20]. The second option to generate high power levels is to replace RF oscillators and amplifiers with microwave

Methodical approaches in town-planning design of street circuits in the conditions of sustainable development of the city

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ivanova, Nina; Ganzha, Olga

2017-10-01

In article the technique of adoption of the design decision on placement of eco-friendly routes for the purpose of use is proved by steady transport, the technique of the choice of the optimal solution of development of local bicycle network of routes is offered and developed structural model of the choice of options of placement of cycle routes in system of street road system and recreational zones in the conditions of sustainable development of the city. The theoretical and practical experience of construction of cycle routes in Russia and abroad is generalized; the method of the analysis of hierarchies which allows to carry out the choice of the design decision taking into account different groups of factors is used; the structural model at the choice of options of placement of bicycle tracks on the example of linear structure of the coastal city is developed; experimental design in the territory of streets of Volgograd is executed. The offered structural model is used in development of design offers of construction of bicycle tracks for the streets of Volgograd providing to inhabitants and city visitors more attractive, healthy and cheap option of movement to place of work, training, rest and entertainments.

Ambiguity Aversion in Rhesus Macaques

PubMed Central

Hayden, Benjamin Y.; Heilbronner, Sarah R.; Platt, Michael L.

2010-01-01

People generally prefer risky options, which have fully specified outcome probabilities, to ambiguous options, which have unspecified probabilities. This preference, formalized in economics, is strong enough that people will reliably prefer a risky option to an ambiguous option with a greater expected value. Explanations for ambiguity aversion often invoke uniquely human faculties like language, self-justification, or a desire to avoid public embarrassment. Challenging these ideas, here we demonstrate that a preference for unambiguous options is shared with rhesus macaques. We trained four monkeys to choose between pairs of options that both offered explicitly cued probabilities of large and small juice outcomes. We then introduced occasional trials where one of the options was obscured and examined their resulting preferences; we ran humans in a parallel experiment on a nearly identical task. We found that monkeys reliably preferred risky options to ambiguous ones, even when this bias was costly, closely matching the behavior of humans in the analogous task. Notably, ambiguity aversion varied parametrically with the extent of ambiguity. As expected, ambiguity aversion gradually declined as monkeys learned the underlying probability distribution of rewards. These data indicate that ambiguity aversion reflects fundamental cognitive biases shared with other animals rather than uniquely human factors guiding decisions. PMID:20922060

Leveraging the Experiences of Informal Caregivers to Create Future Healthcare Workforce Options.

PubMed

Phillips, Sara S; Ragas, Daiva M; Hajjar, Nadia; Tom, Laura S; Dong, XinQi; Simon, Melissa A

2016-01-01

The objective of this study was gather pilot data from informal caregivers regarding the potential for a training program to assist current or past caregivers in reentering the job market, and thus offering a pathway to economic resilience. In an effort that could foster a sustainable and competent caregiving market to help meet the needs of an aging America, whether training informal caregivers might help them transition into a paid caregiving or other health service role was explored. Caregivers (N=55) of a chronically or terminally ill family member or friend in a suburban county near Chicago were interviewed. The interview guide addressed household economic effect of illness, emotional burden, and training program interest. Fifty-six percent of caregivers were interested in training to work outside the home, caring for people in other households, 84% indicated a desire to learn more about health care, and 68% reported a desire to explore job possibilities in health care. Eighty-two percent were experienced in working with an individual aged 50 and older. Informal caregivers' interest in a training program to bolster their qualifications for a role in the healthcare workforce, including the option of a formal caregiver position, supports the demand for such a program. Considering the need for healthcare workers to serve the growing elderly population and the desire of informal caregivers to find gainful employment, these informal caregivers could provide the impetus to invest in informal caregiver training. © 2016, Copyright the Authors Journal compilation © 2016, The American Geriatrics Society.

Distance learning: investing in employees' futures.

PubMed

Having, Karen M; Collins, Kevin S

2005-01-01

The compassion and overall efficiency of those technologists with whom the patient interacts impacts the patient's decision to utilize the facility in the future. Because employee interaction largely influences patient satisfaction, the radiology administrator is challenged to recruit, but more importantly, retain quality employees. Benefit options designed to provide employees the latitude to achieve personal goals as well as professional obligations can be valuable recruitment and retention tools. Ultimately, the purpose of an employee benefit is to promote employee satisfaction, leading to employee retention and culminating in greater patient satisfaction. Since the "ability to influence their career" is reported to be a major area of difference in perceived agreement between the technologist and administrator, it is important to consider avenues for attaining education and skills to meet employee goals far advance. ment within the organization. Distance education, described as a method to provide educational offerings without displacing the learner from the workfarce and his or her community setting, has been successfully implemented in many allied health specialties. Distance learning farmat options include, but not limited to, written correspondence courses, audiotapes, video, Internet, and satellite. These options provide educational access to those with employment and family constraints. The funds that would be spent on recruitment or temporary help can be applied toward training or retraining current employees. Typically, one year of service is required for each year of schooling funded. In some cases, if the training is offered via distance learning, the clinical training portion of the educational program can be conducted at the facility sponsoring the student. Providing clinical training at a facility reduces the student's learning curve associated with transitioning into the open position.

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

Montano, Joshua Daniel

The following report is a review of ToolingU, an online manufacturing training website. ToolingU provided the author with a trail account where a number of courses were taken and the overall program was evaluated. A review of the classes revealed that most of the offerings directly align with work at the Laboratory. Ease of use, effectiveness of the system and price all make ToolingU an attractive option for manufacturing training needs.

Variations in VET Provision across Australian Schools and Their Effects on Student Outcomes. Longitudinal Surveys of Australian Youth. Research Report 48

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lamb, Stephen; Vickers, Margaret

2006-01-01

Vocational education and training (VET) represents one of the most significant reforms to the senior secondary curriculum in Australian schools over recent decades. Introduced to expand curricular options and provide work-based training and qualifications, the numbers of students participating in VET have more than trebled since the mid-1990s.…

A View from the Workshop Floor: What Skills and Qualities Are Demanded of Today's Community Music Workers and How Can They Best Be Taught?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Price, David

2010-01-01

This paper considers the following questions: Do existing models of training, based in higher education/conservatoire institutions, equip today's musicians with appropriate skills to work in community settings and can vocational training be incorporated within conventional music courses as options, or do we need to see specialist full-time…

The Dissertation Story: What Is the Relationship between the Officer Candidate School Attrition Rate and Officer Training Command, Naval Service Training Command and Navy Recruiting Command Leadership Intervention?

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-03-01

attrition (Goodstadt, 1981). Kubisiak, et al. contend that leaders should consider attrition a negative occurrence and that each leader should develop...related to the information, and the consequences associated with the options. The ability to ruminate before acting when presented with new information or

[Training future nurses in providing care for patients who committed criminal acts].

PubMed

Corvest, Karina; Royer, Gilles Ripaille-Le; Dugardin, Thierry

2011-01-01

Providing care for patients who have carried out criminal acts is a source of questioning for caregivers, who must position themselves in this specific care relationship. For three years, the nursing training institute (IFSI) in Orthez has offered students an optional module in criminology. Through discussions and critical reflection, its aim is to enable future nurses to be better prepared.

Women's Participation in Education and Training in New Zealand: Is the "Learn while You Earn" Option Accessible to All?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Piercy, Gemma; Murray, Nicky; Abernethy, Gloria

2006-01-01

Strong education and training systems are viewed as a route to increased labour market participation for groups that have traditionally been excluded from, or marginalised in, the labour market. Engagement in the labour force for such groups has both individual and societal benefits. However, while this emphasis on an increased role for the state…

The Value of Clinical Teachers for EMR Implementations and Conversions

PubMed Central

Pantaleoni, J.L.; Longhurst, C.A.

2015-01-01

Summary Effective physician training is an essential aspect of EMR implementation. However, it can be challenging to find instructors who can present the material in a clinically relevant manner. The authors describe a unique physician-training program, utilizing medical students as course instructors. This approach resulted in high learner satisfaction rates and provided significant cost-savings compared to alternative options. PMID:25848414

Pelvic floor muscle training in groups versus individual or home treatment of women with urinary incontinence: systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Paiva, Luciana Laureano; Ferla, Lia; Darski, Caroline; Catarino, Bruna Maciel; Ramos, José Geraldo Lopes

2017-03-01

Urinary Incontinence (UI) in women is a condition that becomes more common with age. Pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) is recommended as a first option of treatment for women with symptoms of stress urinary incontinence (SUI), mixed urinary incontinence (MUI), and for some with symptoms of urge urinary incontinence (UUI). PFMT can be performed in groups, individually, and at home, and there is no consensus as to which of the approaches is more efficient for the conservative treatment of UI. The objective was to perform a systematic review comparing the effects of group PFMT vs individual or home training in the treatment of women with UI. Cochrane's recommendations for systematic reviews were followed. The inclusion criteria were that the studies had been carried out in adult women who suffered from UI and who underwent PFMT in a group. Ten studies that fit the criteria previously mentioned were included in this systematic review. The meta-analysis showed that there was no difference when comparing PFMT in groups vs individual PFMT. However, when comparing PFMT in groups vs PFMT at home, the group intervention was more efficient in the treatment of UI. PFMT is an efficient technique for the improvement of the symptoms of female UI. When PFMT was supervised by a physiotherapist, no significant difference was noted when comparing group with individual approaches.

Medical student observations on a career in psychiatry.

PubMed

Wigney, Tessa; Parker, Gordon

2007-09-01

Interest in training in psychiatry appears to be in decline. To pursue reasons why a career in psychiatry is not regarded as an attractive option for trainees, attitudes of senior Australian medical students were surveyed. Fifty five medical students from one university were set a question inviting them to detail reasons why doctors might be less likely to train in psychiatry as part of their written examination in psychiatry. Several major themes and salient statements were identified from a qualitative analysis. Analysis identified several multifaceted factors, including a difficult and pressured work environment and lack of resources due to chronic underfunding; perceived deficiency of personal skills, such as empathy; inadequate income; negative implications of stigma, low prestige, and limited patient gratitude and job satisfaction. These issues, coupled with the widespread belief that the discipline is unscientific and not "real medicine", may contribute to later decisions not to pursue training in psychiatry. While the framing of the research question was biased towards eliciting negative evaluations of a career in psychiatry, the responses are nonetheless instructive in helping to understand the reasons why potential trainees might be discouraged from the field. If psychiatry is to attract high-quality recruits, there is clearly a need to address stigmatizing attitudes within the medical hierarchy, and provide positive educational experiences for medical students that excite their imagination about a career or even a calling - as against its negative 'job' status.

The Effectiveness and Need for Facility Based Nurse Aide Training Competency Evaluation Programs.

PubMed

Mileski, Michael; McIlwain, Amber S; Kruse, Clemens Scott; Lieneck, Cristian; Sokan, Amanda

2016-01-01

It has become crucial for nursing facilities to rapidly train future nurse aides and remove any barriers to their matriculation into the field of care. Facilities feel the organizational burden of insufficient staffing and need to lever all effective programs to train future employees. The facility-based, Nurse Aide Training Competency Evaluation Programs (NATCEP) serve as a viable option to help fill shortages in the professional medical workforce. Data were analyzed from the National Nursing Assistant Survey to provide an overview of the benefits of using facility-trained nurse aides, versus those trained elsewhere, including their own perceptions of training and abilities. These findings also show the importance of facility based training programs for nurse aides on a global level. Providing training on site increases the efficiency and proficiency of nurse aides, making the transition to caregivers an easier for students, employers and residents.

42 CFR 51b.405 - What information is required in the application?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... appropriate allied health personnel) venereal disease education, training, and clinical skills improvement...) At the option of the applicant, special studies or demonstrations to evaluate or test venereal...

Building gene expression profile classifiers with a simple and efficient rejection option in R.

PubMed

Benso, Alfredo; Di Carlo, Stefano; Politano, Gianfranco; Savino, Alessandro; Hafeezurrehman, Hafeez

2011-01-01

The collection of gene expression profiles from DNA microarrays and their analysis with pattern recognition algorithms is a powerful technology applied to several biological problems. Common pattern recognition systems classify samples assigning them to a set of known classes. However, in a clinical diagnostics setup, novel and unknown classes (new pathologies) may appear and one must be able to reject those samples that do not fit the trained model. The problem of implementing a rejection option in a multi-class classifier has not been widely addressed in the statistical literature. Gene expression profiles represent a critical case study since they suffer from the curse of dimensionality problem that negatively reflects on the reliability of both traditional rejection models and also more recent approaches such as one-class classifiers. This paper presents a set of empirical decision rules that can be used to implement a rejection option in a set of multi-class classifiers widely used for the analysis of gene expression profiles. In particular, we focus on the classifiers implemented in the R Language and Environment for Statistical Computing (R for short in the remaining of this paper). The main contribution of the proposed rules is their simplicity, which enables an easy integration with available data analysis environments. Since in the definition of a rejection model tuning of the involved parameters is often a complex and delicate task, in this paper we exploit an evolutionary strategy to automate this process. This allows the final user to maximize the rejection accuracy with minimum manual intervention. This paper shows how the use of simple decision rules can be used to help the use of complex machine learning algorithms in real experimental setups. The proposed approach is almost completely automated and therefore a good candidate for being integrated in data analysis flows in labs where the machine learning expertise required to tune traditional classifiers might not be available.

The Effects of Training Institution Practice Costs, Quality, and Other Characteristics on Future Practice

PubMed Central

Phillips, Robert L.; Petterson, Stephen M.; Bazemore, Andrew W.; Wingrove, Peter; Puffer, James C.

2017-01-01

PURPOSE Medicare beneficiary spending patterns reflect those of the 306 Hospital Referral Regions where physicians train, but whether this holds true for smaller areas or for quality is uncertain. This study assesses whether cost and quality imprinting can be detected within the 3,436 Hospital Service Areas (HSAs), 82.4 percent of which have only 1 teaching hospital, and whether sponsoring institution characteristics are associated. METHODS We conducted a secondary, multi-level, multivariable analysis of 2011 Medicare claims and American Medical Association Masterfile data for a random, nationally representative sample of family physicians and general internists who completed residency between 1992 and 2010 and had more than 40 Medicare patients (3,075 physicians providing care to 503,109 beneficiaries). Practice and training locations were matched with Dartmouth Atlas HSAs and categorized into low-, average-, and high-cost spending groups. Practice and training HSAs were assessed for differences in 4 diabetes quality measures. Institutional characteristics included training volume and percentage of graduates in rural practice and primary care. RESULTS The unadjusted, annual, per-beneficiary spending difference between physicians trained in high- and low-cost HSAs was $1,644 (95% CI, $1,253–$2,034), and the difference remained significant after controlling for patient and physician characteristics. No significant relationship was found for diabetes quality measures. General internists were significantly more likely than family physicians to train in high-cost HSAs. Institutions with more graduates in rural practice and primary care produced lower-spending physicians. CONCLUSIONS The “imprint” of training spending patterns on physicians is strong and enduring, without discernible quality effects, and, along with identified institutional features, supports measures and policy options for improved graduate medical education outcomes. PMID:28289113

A radiation-free mixed-reality training environment and assessment concept for C-arm-based surgery.

PubMed

Stefan, Philipp; Habert, Séverine; Winkler, Alexander; Lazarovici, Marc; Fürmetz, Julian; Eck, Ulrich; Navab, Nassir

2018-06-25

The discrepancy of continuously decreasing opportunities for clinical training and assessment and the increasing complexity of interventions in surgery has led to the development of different training and assessment options like anatomical models, computer-based simulators or cadaver trainings. However, trainees, following training, assessment and ultimately performing patient treatment, still face a steep learning curve. To address this problem for C-arm-based surgery, we introduce a realistic radiation-free simulation system that combines patient-based 3D printed anatomy and simulated X-ray imaging using a physical C-arm. To explore the fidelity and usefulness of the proposed mixed-reality system for training and assessment, we conducted a user study with six surgical experts performing a facet joint injection on the simulator. In a technical evaluation, we show that our system simulates X-ray images accurately with an RMSE of 1.85 mm compared to real X-ray imaging. The participants expressed agreement with the overall realism of the simulation, the usefulness of the system for assessment and strong agreement with the usefulness of such a mixed-reality system for training of novices and experts. In a quantitative analysis, we furthermore evaluated the suitability of the system for the assessment of surgical skills and gather preliminary evidence for validity. The proposed mixed-reality simulation system facilitates a transition to C-arm-based surgery and has the potential to complement or even replace large parts of cadaver training, to provide a safe assessment environment and to reduce the risk for errors when proceeding to patient treatment. We propose an assessment concept and outline the steps necessary to expand the system into a test instrument that provides reliable and justified assessments scores indicative of surgical proficiency with sufficient evidence for validity.

[Dichoptic training for amblyopia].

PubMed

Bach, M

2016-04-01

Dichoptic training is a promising new therapeutic approach to amblyopia, which employs simultaneous and separate stimulation of both eyes (thus dichoptic). The contrast for the good eye is reduced thus aiming at a balance with the amblyopic eye. In contrast to monocular patching, binocular vision is trained by video game tasks that can only be solved binocularly. To date the average gain in visual acuity achieved in currently available studies is only 0.20 ± 0.07 logMAR and is not significantly better than competing treatment options. This article explains the basic approach of dichoptic training, summarizes pertinent studies, names unsolved problems and closes with a personal critical assessment.

Resident training in microbiology.

PubMed

Haller, Barbara L

2007-06-01

To meet the challenges of diagnosis and management of infectious diseases, clinical pathology residents must receive comprehensive training in microbiology, learn to think critically, develop problem-solving skills, and take active roles as laboratory consultants. Residents well trained in clinical microbiology become capable laboratory professionals, developing cost-effective testing strategies, decreasing risk for medical errors, and improving patient care. Newer methods for diagnosing infectious disease, such as real-time polymerase chain reaction, microarrays for pathogen detection, and rapid assays for antigen or antibody detection, have become standard. Knowledge of infectious disease principles, drug therapeutic options, and drug resistance is also important. Suggestions for training and for assessing resident competency in clinical microbiology are presented.

Evaluating acceptance of an electronic data management system at a tertiary care institution.

PubMed

Young, Wendy; Klima, George; Isaac, Winston

2011-01-01

This research reports on satisfaction with the introduction of an electronic document management system in a tertiary hospital environment. A buffet of training and familiarization options were offered: one-on-one training, open house, drop-in, e-learning, classroom training, and self-study. It was found that professions differ in their pattern of satisfaction with training and they also differ in their satisfaction with both the usefulness and the ease of use of the system. Satisfaction among administrators was highest and that among nurses lowest. There was an association between attendance at the open house event and satisfaction with the system.

Challenges and opportunities for recruiting a new generation of neurosurgeons.

PubMed

Brown, Ann J; Friedman, Allan H

2007-12-01

Several factors have converged to raise concern among program directors about attracting and training the next generation of neurosurgeons. These include the relatively new duty-hour regulations, the projected physician shortage, and the preference of many current medical students for controllable lifestyles. Attracting top talent into training programs may require innovations geared to Generation X such as policies supporting work-life balance, flexible work options, lots of feedback, mentoring programs, talented leadership, and standardized communication strategies during patient handoffs. Larger programmatic changes may also be needed such as "competency-based" training and additional years of training for mastery of highly specialized procedures.

CASA: tracking the past and plotting the future.

PubMed

Gallagher, M T; Smith, D J; Kirkman-Brown, J C

2018-05-29

The human semen sample carries a wealth of information of varying degrees of accessibility ranging from the traditional visual measures of count and motility to those that need a more computational approach, such as tracking the flagellar waveform. Although computer-aided sperm analysis (CASA) options are becoming more widespread, the gold standard for clinical semen analysis requires trained laboratory staff. In this review we characterise the key attitudes towards the use of CASA and set out areas in which CASA should, and should not, be used and improved. We provide an overview of the current CASA landscape, discussing clinical uses as well as potential areas for the clinical translation of existing research technologies. Finally, we discuss where we see potential for the future of CASA, and how the integration of mathematical modelling and new technologies, such as automated flagellar tracking, may open new doors in clinical semen analysis.

Emergency department crowding in Singapore: Insights from a systems thinking approach.

PubMed

Schoenenberger, Lukas K; Bayer, Steffen; Ansah, John P; Matchar, David B; Mohanavalli, Rajagopal L; Lam, Sean Sw; Ong, Marcus Eh

2016-01-01

Emergency Department crowding is a serious and international health care problem that seems to be resistant to most well intended but often reductionist policy approaches. In this study, we examine Emergency Department crowding in Singapore from a systems thinking perspective using causal loop diagramming to visualize the systemic structure underlying this complex phenomenon. Furthermore, we evaluate the relative impact of three different policies in reducing Emergency Department crowding in Singapore: introduction of geriatric emergency medicine, expansion of emergency medicine training, and implementation of enhanced primary care. The construction of the qualitative causal loop diagram is based on consultations with Emergency Department experts, direct observation, and a thorough literature review. For the purpose of policy analysis, a novel approach, the path analysis, is applied. The path analysis revealed that both the introduction of geriatric emergency medicine and the expansion of emergency medicine training may be associated with undesirable consequences contributing to Emergency Department crowding. In contrast, enhancing primary care was found to be germane in reducing Emergency Department crowding; in addition, it has apparently no negative side effects, considering the boundary of the model created. Causal loop diagramming was a powerful tool for eliciting the systemic structure of Emergency Department crowding in Singapore. Additionally, the developed model was valuable in testing different policy options.

A Perspective for Assertiveness Training for Blacks

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Minor, Billy Joe

1978-01-01

This article discussess assertiveness in the Black-White encounter. The author delineates the assertive options available to Blacks, distortions in interpretation of assertive messages, and strategies for more effective and efficient assertions. (Author)

14 CFR 21.251 - Limits of applicability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... operation of those aircraft for the purpose of research and development, crew training, market surveys, or... option authorizations may be used for— (1) Type certification; (2) Changes in the type design of products...

The New Interventional Radiology Pathways: Options for Implementation.

PubMed

Recht, Michael; McKinney, J Mark; Alleman, Anthony M; Lowe, Lisa H; Spies, James B

2016-07-01

The new interventional radiology (IR) pathways have generated much discussion with articles and editorials pointing out perceived advantages and disadvantages compared to the current pathways. To briefly review, under the new system, there are three pathways to enter IR: the integrated (INT) IR residency, the independent (IND) IR residency, and the early specialization in interventional radiology (ESIR) program. The pathways have been designed to provide maximum flexibility to programs for implementation and to radiology residents for planning their subspecialty training. As a result, there are many potential permutations for these training programs, and understanding the variety of options can be a challenge at first. We offer three potential solutions, based on the different circumstances or requirements a department might face. The first two solutions involve integrated programs created through newly funded and converted diagnostic radiology slots, respectively. The third involves establishing ESIR and IND programs only. Hopefully, the examples provided will be useful for those currently planning for the future of their IR training programs. Copyright © 2016 The Association of University Radiologists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Pedagogical Professional Development of Medical Teachers: The Experience of NOVA Medical School / Universidade Nova de Lisboa].

PubMed

Marques, Joana; Rosado-Pinto, Patrícia

2017-03-31

To be a college teacher requires a permanent effort in developing specific competencies, namely in the pedagogical domain. This paper aims both to describe the pedagogical professional development program offered by the Medical Education Office of NOVA Medical School of Universidade Nova de Lisboa and to analyse its role in the enhancement of reflection around curriculum and teaching practice. Description of the pedagogical programme offered between 2010 and 2016. We focused the analysis on different kinds of data - opinions of the participants in the training programme (questionnaire before and after the training); pedagogical products elaborated by the participants in the programme - design of lessons, modules or curricular units; questionnaire sent in 2016 to NOVA Medical School teachers responsible for the curricular units, about the contribution of their disciplines to the accomplishment of the core learning outcomes of the NOVA Medical School medical graduates. The pedagogical training needs identified by the teachers focused mainly on improving practice, critically analysing the curriculum and sharing experiences. Globally the training programme was deeply appreciated and considered very good by 97% of the participants. The lesson plans delivered showed that the teachers were able to integrate and apply the concepts developed during the training. The answers from the 46 faculty responsible for the curricular units (the majority of them had attended the Medical Education Office training programme) highlighted their capacity to critically approach content and pedagogical strategies within their disciplines as well as their contribution to the main goals of the medical curriculum. The results underlined the importance of a pedagogical training focused on the critical analysis of curriculum and pedagogical practice. On the other hand, the pedagogical products analyzed revealed great mastery by teachers of the content and pedagogical strategies present in the curricula of their respective curricular units, as well as their alignment with the general objectives of the Mestrado Integrado em Medicina. In line with the literature of the specialty, pedagogical training in Higher Education, rather than aiming at the mere acquisition of techniques, should, above all, give priority to spaces for joint reflection on the curriculum and on the pedagogical options of teachers.

Economic evaluation of a brief education, self-management and upper limb exercise training in people with rheumatoid arthritis (EXTRA) programme: a trial-based analysis.

PubMed

Manning, Victoria L; Kaambwa, Billingsley; Ratcliffe, Julie; Scott, David L; Choy, Ernest; Hurley, Michael V; Bearne, Lindsay M

2015-02-01

The aim of this study was to conduct a cost-utility analysis of the Education, Self-management and Upper Limb Exercise Training in People with RA (EXTRA) programme compared with usual care. A within-trial incremental cost-utility analysis was conducted with 108 participants randomized to either the EXTRA programme (n = 52) or usual care (n = 56). A health care perspective was assumed for the primary analysis with a 36 week follow-up. Resource use information was collected on interventions, medication, primary and secondary care contacts, private health care and social care costs. Quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) were calculated from the EuroQol five-dimension three-level (EQ-5D-3L) questionnaire responses at baseline, 12 and 36 weeks. Compared with usual care, total QALYs gained were higher in the EXTRA programme, leading to an increase of 0.0296 QALYs. The mean National Health Service (NHS) costs per participant were slightly higher in the EXTRA programme (by £82), resulting in an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of £2770 per additional QALY gained. Thus the EXTRA programme was cost effective from an NHS perspective when assessed against the threshold of £20 000-£30 000/QALY gained. Overall, costs were lower in the EXTRA programme compared with usual care, suggesting it was the dominant treatment option from a societal perspective. At a willingness-to-pay of £20 000/QALY gained, there was a 65% probability that the EXTRA programme was the most cost-effective option. These results were robust to sensitivity analyses accounting for missing data, changing the cost perspective and removing cost outliers. The physiotherapist-led EXTRA programme represents a cost-effective use of resources compared with usual care and leads to lower health care costs and work absence. International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number Register; http://www.controlled-trials.com/isrctn/ (ISRCTN14268051). © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the British Society for Rheumatology. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

The rise and fall of dental therapy in Canada: a policy analysis and assessment of equity of access to oral health care for Inuit and First Nations communities.

PubMed

Leck, Victoria; Randall, Glen E

2017-07-20

Inequality between most Canadians and those from Inuit and First Nations communities, in terms of both access to oral health care services and related health outcomes, has been a long-standing problem. Efforts to close this equity gap led to the creation of dental therapy training programs. These programs were designed to produce graduates who would provide services in rural and northern communities. The closure of the last dental therapy program in late 2011 has ended the supply of dental therapists and governments do not appear to have any alternative solutions to the growing gap in access to oral health care services between most Canadians and those from Inuit and First Nations communities. A policy analysis of the rise and fall of the dental therapy profession in Canada was conducted using historical and policy documents. The analysis is framed within Kingdon's agenda-setting framework and considers why dental therapy was originally pursued as an option to ensure equitable access to oral health care for Inuit and First Nations communities and why this policy has now been abandoned with the closure of Canada's last dental therapy training school. The closure of the last dental therapy program in Canada has the potential to further reduce access to dental care in some Inuit and First Nations communities. Overlaps between federal and provincial jurisdiction have contributed to the absence of a coordinated policy approach to address the equity gap in access to dental care which will exacerbate the inequalities in comparison to the general population. The analysis suggests that while a technically feasible policy solution is available there continues to be no politically acceptable solution and thus it remains unlikely that a window of opportunity for policy change will open any time soon. In the absence of federal government leadership, the most viable option forward may be incremental policy change. Provincial governments could expand the scope of practice for dental hygienists in the hope that it may support enhanced access, consumer choice, and efficiency in the delivery of oral health care to Inuit and First Nations communities in Canada.

An overview of the education and training component of RICIS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Freedman, Glenn B.

1987-01-01

Research in education and training according to RICIS (Research Institute for Computing and Information Systems) program focuses on means to disseminate knowledge, skills, and technological advances rapidly, accurately, and effectively. A range of areas for study include: artificial intelligence, hypermedia and full-text retrieval strategies, use of mass storage and retrieval options such as CD-ROM and laser disks, and interactive video and interactive media presentations.

Postdoctoral Professional Fellowships in Laboratory Medicine.

PubMed

Straseski, Joely A

2013-04-01

Doctoral level scientists often pursue a traditional academic route, focusing their efforts on research and education. However, additional options exist for those that are interested in using their laboratory and research skills in a clinical setting. Clinical laboratory directors serve as the interface between the clinical laboratory and the users of laboratory test results. This article describes these career paths options for PhD scientists. Clinical laboratory directors are primarily trained via one of two routes: physicians that have been trained in clinical pathology or non-physician doctoral scientists that have completed professional fellowship training. This article will focus on the latter of these 2 routes. In the United States, completing a postdoctoral fellowship in laboratory-specific professional fields qualifies non-physician doctoral scientists as laboratory directors and consultants. Their expert consultation provides invaluable insight into testing procedures such as possible sources of interference or inaccurate test results, preferred testing for specific clinical situations, and confirmatory methods. They must also be knowledgeable about current instrumentation, assay limitations, and the newest available technologies. One of the older and more developed professional fellowships in the United States, clinical chemistry, encompasses many laboratory disciplines and will be highlighted in detail. Training information specific to clinical immunology, clinical microbiology, and clinical genetics is also discussed.

Evaluation of the Commitment to Living (CTL) curriculum: a 3-hour training for mental health professionals to address suicide risk.

PubMed

Pisani, Anthony R; Cross, Wendi F; Watts, Arthur; Conner, Kenneth

2012-01-01

Finding effective and efficient options for training mental health professionals to assess and manage suicide risk is a high priority. To test whether an innovative, brief workshop can improve provider knowledge, confidence, and written risk assessment in a multidisciplinary sample of ambulatory and acute services professionals and trainees. We conducted a pre/post evaluation of a 3 h workshop designed to improve clinical competence in suicide risk assessment by using visual concept mapping, medical records documentation, and site-specific crisis response options. Participants (N = 338 diverse mental health professionals) completed pre- and postworkshop questionnaires measuring their knowledge and confidence. Before and after the workshop, participants completed documentation for a clinical vignette. Trained coders rated the quality of risk assessment formulation before and after training. Participants' knowledge, confidence, and objectively-rated documentation skills improved significantly (p < .001), with large effect sizes. Participants' expectation of their ability to transfer workshop content to their clinical practice was high (mean = 4.10 on 1-5 scale). Commitment to Living is a promising, innovative, and efficient curriculum for educating practicing clinicians to assess and respond to suicide risk. Well-designed, brief, suicide risk management programs can improve clinicians' knowledge, confidence, and skill.

Leveraging the Experiences of Informal Caregivers to Create Future Healthcare Workforce Options

PubMed Central

Phillips, Sara S.; Ragas, Daiva M.; Hajjar, Nadia; Tom, Laura S.; Dong, XinQi; Simon, Melissa A.

2015-01-01

Our primary objective was to gather pilot data from informal caregivers regarding the potential for a training program to assist current or past caregivers in re-entering the job market, offering a pathway to economic resilience. In an effort that could foster a sustainable and competent caregiving market to help meet the needs of an aging America, we explored whether training informal caregivers might help them transition into a paid caregiving or other health-service role. We interviewed 55 caregivers of a chronically or terminally ill family member or friend in a suburban collar county near Chicago. The interview guide addressed household economic impact of illness, emotional burden, and training program interest. We found that more than half of caregivers (56%) were interested in training to work outside the home, caring for patients in other households. Notably, 84% indicated a desire to learn more about health care and 68% reported a desire to explore job possibilities in health care. Most of the caregivers (82%) were experienced in working with an older adult who was at least 50 years old. Informal caregivers’ interest in a training program to bolster their qualifications for a role within the healthcare workforce, including the option of a formal caregiver position, supports the demand for such a program. Considering the need for healthcare workers to serve the growing elderly demographic and the desire of informal caregivers to find gainful employment, this informal caregiver demographic could provide the impetus to invest in informal caregiver training in the future. PMID:26782869

A Multi-Objective Approach to Tactical Maneuvering Within Real Time Strategy Games

DTIC Science & Technology

The resulting agent does not require the usage of training or tree searches to optimize, allowing for consist effective performance across all scenarios against a variety of opposing tactical options.

Educating Information Brokers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kehoe, Cynthia A.

1997-01-01

Discusses the education and training needed for information brokers. Topics include information broker as a career option; how library and information science programs can prepare students; research skills versus reference skills; small business management; and alternative and continuing education. (LRW)

The National Model for Minority Education and Training Demonstration (NMMETD) Case Study

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

NMMETD targeted minority and indigent residents by educating homeowners about the management of onsite systems and assisting residents with funding options for managing, installing, and disseminating information about onsite wastewater systems.

Amblyopia treatment of adults with dichoptic training using the virtual reality oculus rift head mounted display: preliminary results.

PubMed

Žiak, Peter; Holm, Anders; Halička, Juraj; Mojžiš, Peter; Piñero, David P

2017-06-28

The gold standard treatments in amblyopia are penalizing therapies, such as patching or blurring vision with atropine that are aimed at forcing the use of the amblyopic eye. However, in the last years, new therapies are being developed and validated, such as dichoptic visual training, aimed at stimulating the amblyopic eye and eliminating the interocular supression. To evaluate the effect of dichoptic visual training using a virtual reality head mounted display in a sample of anisometropic amblyopic adults and to evaluate the potential usefulness of this option of treatment. A total of 17 subjects (10 men, 7 women) with a mean age of 31.2 years (range, 17-69 year) and anisometropic amblyopia were enrolled. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and stereoacuity (Stereo Randot graded circle test) changes were evaluated after 8 sessions (40 min per session) of dichoptic training with the computer game Diplopia Game (Vivid Vision) run in the Oculus Rift OC DK2 virtual reality head mounted display (Oculus VR). Mean BCVA in amblyopic eye improved significantly from a logMAR value of 0.58 ± 0.35 before training to a post-training value of 0.43 ± 0.38 (p < 0.01). Forty-seven percent of the participants achieved BCVA of 20/40 or better after the training as compared to 30% before the training. Mean stereoacuity changed from a value of 263.3 ± 135.1 before dichoptic training to a value of 176.7 ± 152.4 s of arc after training (p < 0.01). A total of 8 patients (47.1%) before dichoptic treatment had unmeasurable stereoacuity while this only occurred in 2 patients (11.8%) after training. Dichoptic training using a virtual reality head mounted display seems to be an effective option of treatment in adults with anisometropic amblyopia. Future clinical trials are needed to confirm this preliminary evidence. Trial ID: ISRCTN62086471 . Date registered: 13/06/2017. Retrospectively registered.

Comparative study of Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) transportation alternatives

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

Not Available

WIPP transportation studies in the Final Supplement Environmental Impact Statement for WIPP are the baseline for this report. In an attempt to present the most current analysis, this study incorporates the most relevant data available. The following three transportation options are evaluated for the Disposal Phase, which is assumed to be 20 years: Truck shipments, consisting of a tractor and trailer, with three TRUPACT-IIs or one RH-72B; Regular commercial train shipments consisting of up to three railcars carrying up to 18 TRUPACT-IIs or up to six RH-72Bs; Dedicated train shipments consisting of a locomotive, an idle car, railcars carrying 18more » TRUPACT-IIs or six RH-72Bs, another idle car, and a caboose or passenger car with an emergency response specialist. No other cargo is carried. This report includes: A consideration of occupational and public risks and exposures, and other environmental impacts; A consideration of emergency response capabilities; and An extimation of comparative costs.« less

Barriers and Facilitators to Integrating Health Service Responses to Intimate Partner Violence in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Comparative Health Systems and Service Analysis.

PubMed

Colombini, Manuela; Dockerty, Colleen; Mayhew, Susannah H

2017-06-01

This systematic review synthesizes 11 studies of health-sector responses to intimate partner violence (IPV) in low- and middle-income countries. The services that were most comprehensive and integrated in their responsiveness to IPV were primarily in primary health and antenatal care settings. Findings suggest that the following facilitators are important: availability of clear guidelines, policies, or protocols; management support; intersectoral coordination with clear, accessible on-site and off-site referral options; adequate and trained staff with accepting and empathetic attitudes toward survivors of IPV; initial and ongoing training for health workers; and a supportive and supervised environment in which to enact new IPV protocols. A key characteristic of the most integrated responses was the connection or "linkages" between different individual factors. Irrespective of their service entry point, what emerged as crucial was a connected systems-level response, with all elements implemented in a coordinated manner. © 2017 The Population Council, Inc.

Barriers and Facilitators to Integrating Health Service Responses to Intimate Partner Violence in Low‐ and Middle‐Income Countries: A Comparative Health Systems and Service Analysis

PubMed Central

Colombini, Manuela; Dockerty, Colleen; Mayhew, Susannah H.

2017-01-01

This systematic review synthesizes 11 studies of health‐sector responses to intimate partner violence (IPV) in low‐ and middle‐income countries. The services that were most comprehensive and integrated in their responsiveness to IPV were primarily in primary health and antenatal care settings. Findings suggest that the following facilitators are important: availability of clear guidelines, policies, or protocols; management support; intersectoral coordination with clear, accessible on‐site and off‐site referral options; adequate and trained staff with accepting and empathetic attitudes toward survivors of IPV; initial and ongoing training for health workers; and a supportive and supervised environment in which to enact new IPV protocols. A key characteristic of the most integrated responses was the connection or “linkages” between different individual factors. Irrespective of their service entry point, what emerged as crucial was a connected systems‐level response, with all elements implemented in a coordinated manner. PMID:28422291

Integrated Portfolio Analysis: Return on Investment and Real Options Analysis of Intelligence Information Systems (Cryptologic Carry On Program)

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-09-30

unlimited. Prepared for: Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, California 93943 Integrated Portfolio Analysis : Return on Investment and Real Options... Analysis of Intelligence Information Systems (Cryptologic Carry On Program) 30 September 2006 by LCDR Cesar G. Rios, Jr., Naval Postgraduate...October 2005 – 30 September 2006 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE Integrated Portfolio Analysis : Return on Investment and Real Options Analysis of Intelligence

A multi-site proof-of-concept investigation of computerized approach-avoidance training in adolescent cannabis users.

PubMed

Jacobus, Joanna; Taylor, Charles T; Gray, Kevin M; Meredith, Lindsay R; Porter, Anna M; Li, Irene; Castro, Norma; Squeglia, Lindsay M

2018-06-01

Few effective treatment options exist for cannabis-using youth. This pilot study aimed to test Approach-Avoidance Training to reduce cannabis use with non-treatment-seeking adolescents. Eighty cannabis-using non-treatment-seeking adolescents (average age 19) were recruited from San Diego, California and Charleston, South Carolina, and randomized to complete either six sessions of Cannabis Approach-Avoidance Task Training (CAAT-training) designed to reduce automatic approach biases for cannabis cues or CAAT-sham training. Change in two primary outcome variables was examined: 1) cannabis approach bias and 2) percent cannabis use days over study enrollment. Change in percent alcohol use days over study enrollment was explored as a secondary outcome. A mixed models repeated measures analysis confirmed the group by time interaction effect for approach bias failed to reach statistical significance (p = .06). Significant group by time interaction effects (ps < 0.05) predicted percent days of cannabis and alcohol use over study enrollment. Participants randomized to the avoid cannabis condition (CAAT-training) reported 7% fewer days of cannabis use compared to 0% change for sham; unexpectedly, those in the avoid cannabis condition reported 10% percent more alcohol use days compared to 3% more for sham. Computerized cognitive bias modification paradigms may have utility in reducing adolescent cannabis use. Future work should consider developing a paradigm that addresses both cannabis and alcohol, as well as alternative computerized approaches for coping with addictive behavior in conjunction with bias modification. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

75 FR 5831 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; Chicago Board Options Exchange, Incorporated; Order Approving...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-02-04

... series.\\8\\ The annual report will also contain information and analysis of FLEX Options trading patterns... will also contain information and analysis of FLEX Options trading patterns, and index price volatility... To Establish a Pilot Program To Modify FLEX Option Exercise Settlement Values and Minimum Value Sizes...

Complementary physical therapies for movement disorders in Parkinson's disease: a systematic review.

PubMed

Alves Da Rocha, P; McClelland, J; Morris, M E

2015-12-01

The growth and popularity of complementary physical therapies for Parkinson's disease (PD) attempt to fill the gap left by conventional exercises, which does not always directly target wellbeing, enjoyment and social participation. To evaluate the effects of complementary physical therapies on motor performance, quality of life and falls in people living with PD. Systematic review with meta-analysis. Outpatients--adults diagnosed with idiopathic PD, male or female, modified Hoehn and Yahr scale I-IV, any duration of PD, any duration of physical treatment or exercise. Randomized controlled trials, non-randomized controlled trials and case series studies were identified by systematic searching of health and rehabilitation electronic databases. A standardized form was used to extract key data from studies by two independent researchers. 1210 participants from 20 randomized controlled trials, two non-randomized controlled trials and 13 case series studies were included. Most studies had moderately strong methodological quality. Dancing, water exercises and robotic gait training were an effective adjunct to medical management for some people living with PD. Virtual reality training, mental practice, aerobic training, boxing and Nordic walking training had a small amount of evidence supporting their use in PD. On balance, alternative physical therapies are worthy of consideration when selecting treatment options for people with this common chronic disease. Complementary physical therapies such as dancing, hydrotherapy and robotic gait training appear to afford therapeutic benefits, increasing mobility and quality of life, in some people living with PD.

Centralized, capacity-building training of Lichtenstein hernioplasty in Brazil.

PubMed

Moore, Alexandra M; Datta, Néha; Wagner, Justin P; Schroeder, Alexander D; Reinpold, Wolfgang; Franciss, Maurice Y; Silva, Rodrigo A; Chen, David C; Filipi, Charles J; Roll, Sergio

2017-02-01

In Brazil, access to healthcare varies widely by community. Options for repair of surgically correctable conditions, such as inguinal hernias, are limited. A training program was instituted to expand access to Lichtenstein hernioplasty. Between September, 2014 and September, 2015, 3 orders of training series took place in São Paulo, Brazil. Participating surgeons received training and assessments from expert trainers using the Operative Performance Rating Scale (OPRS). Those who completed training successfully were invited to become trainers. OPRS scores were compared between training series. Outcomes were documented up to 6 months post-training. The 3 orders of training series resulted in 45 surgeons trained and 213 hernias repaired. Eleven trainees subsequently became trainers. Mean post-training OPRS scores were 4.4 (scale of 5) and did not vary significantly between training series. The overall complication rate was 4.7%, with no hernia recurrences or reoperations at 6 months. Competency-based training generates a regional network of surgeons proficient in Lichtenstein hernioplasty. Each training session progressively expands patient access to high quality operations in underserved communities in Brazil. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Digitizing zone maps, using modified LARSYS program. [computer graphics and computer techniques for mapping

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Giddings, L.; Boston, S.

1976-01-01

A method for digitizing zone maps is presented, starting with colored images and producing a final one-channel digitized tape. This method automates the work previously done interactively on the Image-100 and Data Analysis System computers of the Johnson Space Center (JSC) Earth Observations Division (EOD). A color-coded map was digitized through color filters on a scanner to form a digital tape in LARSYS-2 or JSC Universal format. The taped image was classified by the EOD LARSYS program on the basis of training fields included in the image. Numerical values were assigned to all pixels in a given class, and the resulting coded zone map was written on a LARSYS or Universal tape. A unique spatial filter option permitted zones to be made homogeneous and edges of zones to be abrupt transitions from one zone to the next. A zoom option allowed the output image to have arbitrary dimensions in terms of number of lines and number of samples on a line. Printouts of the computer program are given and the images that were digitized are shown.

Food Composition Database Format and Structure: A User Focused Approach

PubMed Central

Clancy, Annabel K.; Woods, Kaitlyn; McMahon, Anne; Probst, Yasmine

2015-01-01

This study aimed to investigate the needs of Australian food composition database user’s regarding database format and relate this to the format of databases available globally. Three semi structured synchronous online focus groups (M = 3, F = 11) and n = 6 female key informant interviews were recorded. Beliefs surrounding the use, training, understanding, benefits and limitations of food composition data and databases were explored. Verbatim transcriptions underwent preliminary coding followed by thematic analysis with NVivo qualitative analysis software to extract the final themes. Schematic analysis was applied to the final themes related to database format. Desktop analysis also examined the format of six key globally available databases. 24 dominant themes were established, of which five related to format; database use, food classification, framework, accessibility and availability, and data derivation. Desktop analysis revealed that food classification systems varied considerably between databases. Microsoft Excel was a common file format used in all databases, and available software varied between countries. User’s also recognised that food composition databases format should ideally be designed specifically for the intended use, have a user-friendly food classification system, incorporate accurate data with clear explanation of data derivation and feature user input. However, such databases are limited by data availability and resources. Further exploration of data sharing options should be considered. Furthermore, user’s understanding of food composition data and databases limitations is inherent to the correct application of non-specific databases. Therefore, further exploration of user FCDB training should also be considered. PMID:26554836

Mindfulness Training for Health Profession Students-The Effect of Mindfulness Training on Psychological Well-Being, Learning and Clinical Performance of Health Professional Students: A Systematic Review of Randomized and Non-randomized Controlled Trials.

PubMed

McConville, Janet; McAleer, Rachael; Hahne, Andrew

High levels of stress have been identified in medical students and increasingly in other health profession student population groups. As stress can affect psychological well-being and interfere with learning and clinical performance, there is a clear argument for universities to include health professional student well-being as an outcome in core curriculum. Mindfulness training is a potential construct to manage stress and enhance academic success. The aims of this systematic review were to assess the effectiveness of mindfulness training in medical and other health professional student population groups and to compare the effectiveness of the different mindfulness-based programs. A literature search was completed using The Cochrane library, Medline, Cinahl, Embase, Psychinfo, and ERIC (proquest) electronic databases from inception to June 2016. Randomized and non-randomized controlled trials were included. Of the potential 5355 articles, 19 met the inclusion criteria. Studies focused on medical (n = 10), nursing (n = 4), social work (n = 1), psychology (n = 1), and medical plus other health (n = 3) students. Interventions were based on mindfulness. The 19 studies included 1815 participants. Meta-analysis was performed evaluating the effect of mindfulness training on mindfulness, anxiety, depression, stress, mood, self-efficacy, and empathy. The effect of mindfulness on academic performance was discussed. Mindfulness-based interventions decrease stress, anxiety, and depression and improve mindfulness, mood, self-efficacy, and empathy in health profession students. Due to the range of presentation options, mindfulness training can be relatively easily adapted and integrated into health professional training programs. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Future psychotherapists? Vocational plans and motivation for choosing psychotherapy as a career in german psychology students].

PubMed

Glaesmer, Heide; Spangenberg, Lena; Sonntag, Astrid; Brähler, Elmar; Strauss, Bernhard

2010-12-01

in Germany psychology students can be seen as the major personal resource in psychotherapy. Nevertheless there are few studies on their vocational plans and their interest in psychotherapeutic training. 480 psychology students completed a self-developed questionnaire on their career expectations. 90% of respondents report interest in clinical work and psychotherapeutic training. Most frequently they mention improving therapeutic competencies and career options as pros and current training requirements as cons. Their theoretical orientation (38% behaviour therapy, 19% psychodynamic therapy) is associated with their psychotherapeutic knowledge, study conditions and respondent's characteristics. psychology students consider working and training conditions for psychologists and psychotherapists, when thinking about their future career.

Multiservice Procedures for the Tactical Employment of Nonlethal Weapons (NLW)

DTIC Science & Technology

1998-10-01

capsicum (OC) spray, impact weapons, and internationally recognized open-hand control techniques. The US Army will award an additional skill identifier...dealing with people are truly the first line of nonlethal options. d. Oleoresin Capsicum Aerosol Train- ing. The subcourse is an introduction to the uses...Oleoresin Capsicum Aerosol Training 8.0 Open Hand Control 24.0 Impact Weapons 36.0 Introduction to Military Working Dogs 1.0 ROE/Law of War

Effects of high intensity interval training versus moderate intensity continuous training on the reduction of oxidative stress in type 2 diabetic adult patients: CAT.

PubMed

Poblete Aro, Carlos Emilio; Russell Guzmán, Javier Antonio; Soto Muñoz, Marcelo Enrique; Villegas González, Bastián Eduardo

2015-08-13

Oxidative stress is caused by an imbalance between an excessive production of reactive oxygen species and/or a deficiency in the level of endogenous and exogenous antioxidant defenses. The presence of reactive oxygen species in large concentrations and for long periods is associated with the occurrence of various diseases, including type 2 diabetes mellitus. Exercise represents an effective means for the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, and is also able to reduce long-term oxidative stress levels. High-intensity interval training has shown to be an efficient and viable option for type 2 diabetes mellitus control. In turn, high-intensity interval training seems to have positive effects on oxidative stress levels by increasing levels of endogenous antioxidants. To assess the validity and applicability of the results regarding the effectiveness of high-intensity interval training compared to moderate intensity continuous training to reduce oxidative stress in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and to answer the following question: In adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus, can the method of high-intensity interval training, compared to moderate intensity continuous training reduce oxidative stress levels? We performed a critical analysis of the article "Continuous training vs Interval training in glycemic control and macro and microvascular reactivity in patients with type 2 diabetes". No statistically significant differences were observed in concentrations of superoxide dismutase in any of the experimental groups. Only in the interval group a decrease in malondialdehyde regarding control group and baseline (p<0.05) was observed. In addition, only in the interval group there was an increase in glutathione peroxidase compared to the group of continuous aerobic training and baseline (p<0.05). Nitric oxide showed a significant increase regarding the control, continuous aerobic group and baseline (p<0.05) in the interval training group. Despite the fact that both training groups show improvements over markers of lipid profile and fitness, high intensity interval training has shown to be more effective in the normalization of oxidative stress, impacting positively on the concentration of pro-oxidant markers and antioxidants.

Risk Management Education: A National Survey of Agents' Knowledge and Training.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Buzby, Jean C.; And Others

1992-01-01

A nationwide survey of 504 county agricultural agents received 468 replies indicating that agents understand farmers' risk management strategies but feel least qualified to teach about futures markets, crop insurance, hedging, and options. (JOW)

NetMHC-3.0: accurate web accessible predictions of human, mouse and monkey MHC class I affinities for peptides of length 8-11.

PubMed

Lundegaard, Claus; Lamberth, Kasper; Harndahl, Mikkel; Buus, Søren; Lund, Ole; Nielsen, Morten

2008-07-01

NetMHC-3.0 is trained on a large number of quantitative peptide data using both affinity data from the Immune Epitope Database and Analysis Resource (IEDB) and elution data from SYFPEITHI. The method generates high-accuracy predictions of major histocompatibility complex (MHC): peptide binding. The predictions are based on artificial neural networks trained on data from 55 MHC alleles (43 Human and 12 non-human), and position-specific scoring matrices (PSSMs) for additional 67 HLA alleles. As only the MHC class I prediction server is available, predictions are possible for peptides of length 8-11 for all 122 alleles. artificial neural network predictions are given as actual IC(50) values whereas PSSM predictions are given as a log-odds likelihood scores. The output is optionally available as download for easy post-processing. The training method underlying the server is the best available, and has been used to predict possible MHC-binding peptides in a series of pathogen viral proteomes including SARS, Influenza and HIV, resulting in an average of 75-80% confirmed MHC binders. Here, the performance is further validated and benchmarked using a large set of newly published affinity data, non-redundant to the training set. The server is free of use and available at: http://www.cbs.dtu.dk/services/NetMHC.

Stochastic resonance whole-body vibration improves postural control in health care professionals: a worksite randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Elfering, Achim; Schade, Volker; Stoecklin, Lukas; Baur, Simone; Burger, Christian; Radlinger, Lorenz

2014-05-01

Slip, trip, and fall injuries are frequent among health care workers. Stochastic resonance whole-body vibration training was tested to improve postural control. Participants included 124 employees of a Swiss university hospital. The randomized controlled trial included an experimental group given 8 weeks of training and a control group with no intervention. In both groups, postural control was assessed as mediolateral sway on a force plate before and after the 8-week trial. Mediolateral sway was significantly decreased by stochastic resonance whole-body vibration training in the experimental group but not in the control group that received no training (p < .05). Stochastic resonance whole-body vibration training is an option in the primary prevention of balance-related injury at work. Copyright 2014, SLACK Incorporated.

[Frailty from the rehabilitation medicine point of view].

PubMed

Quittan, M

2014-07-01

Frailty syndrome exerts an increasing challenge to health care systems. Thus, rehabilitative interventions should be taken to prevent or slow this syndrome. Based on the definitions of frailty and rehabilitation, the present work gives an overview of current treatment options. The methodology and evidence for device-assisted training forms such as neuromuscular electrical stimulation or mechanical muscle stimulation are discussed. The use of various forms of training for frail patients is critically discussed. Among other things, age- and disease-related changes in skeletal muscle play a central role in the development of frailty. Progressive strength training is an evidence-based rehabilitative strategy to improve function. Since this form of strength training can be a vigorous exercise especially for the elderly and infirmed, it can be offered as an alternative form of training.

Psychiatry training in the United Kingdom--part 2: the training process.

PubMed

Christodoulou, N; Kasiakogia, K

2015-01-01

In the second part of this diptych, we shall deal with psychiatric training in the United Kingdom in detail, and we will compare it--wherever this is meaningful--with the equivalent system in Greece. As explained in the first part of the paper, due to the recently increased emigration of Greek psychiatrists and psychiatric trainees, and the fact that the United Kingdom is a popular destination, it has become necessary to inform those aspiring to train in the United Kingdom of the system and the circumstances they should expect to encounter. This paper principally describes the structure of the United Kingdom's psychiatric training system, including the different stages trainees progress through and their respective requirements and processes. Specifically, specialty and subspecialty options are described and explained, special paths in training are analysed, and the notions of "special interest day" and the optional "Out of programme experience" schemes are explained. Furthermore, detailed information is offered on the pivotal points of each of the stages of the training process, with special care to explain the important differences and similarities between the systems in Greece and the United Kingdom. Special attention is given to The Royal College of Psychiatrists' Membership Exams (MRCPsych) because they are the only exams towards completing specialisation in Psychiatry in the United Kingdom. Also, the educational culture of progressing according to a set curriculum, of utilising diverse means of professional development, of empowering the trainees' autonomy by allowing initiative-based development and of applying peer supervision as a tool for professional development is stressed. We conclude that psychiatric training in the United Kingdom differs substantially to that of Greece in both structure and process. Τhere are various differences such as pure psychiatric training in the United Kingdom versus neurological and medical modules in Greece, in-training exams in the United Kingdom versus an exit exam in Greece, and of course the three years of higher training, which prepares trainees towards functioning as consultants. However, perhaps the most important difference is one of mentality; namely a culture of competency- based training progression in the United Kingdom, which further extends beyond training into professional revalidation. We believe that, with careful cultural adaptation, the systems of psychiatric training in the United Kingdom and Greece may benefit from sharing some of their features. Lastly, as previously clarified, this diptych paper is meant to be informative, not advisory.

An Onboard ISS Virtual Reality Trainer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miralles, Evelyn

2013-01-01

Prior to the retirement of the Space Shuttle, many exterior repairs on the International Space Station (ISS) were carried out by shuttle astronauts, trained on the ground and flown to the Station to perform these specific repairs. With the retirement of the shuttle, this is no longer an available option. As such, the need for ISS crew members to review scenarios while on flight, either for tasks they already trained for on the ground or for contingency operations has become a very critical issue. NASA astronauts prepare for Extra-Vehicular Activities (EVA) or Spacewalks through numerous training media, such as: self-study, part task training, underwater training in the Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory (NBL), hands-on hardware reviews and training at the Virtual Reality Laboratory (VRLab). In many situations, the time between the last session of a training and an EVA task might be 6 to 8 months. EVA tasks are critical for a mission and as time passes the crew members may lose proficiency on previously trained tasks and their options to refresh or learn a new skill while on flight are limited to reading training materials and watching videos. In addition, there is an increased need for unplanned contingency repairs to fix problems arising as the Station ages. In order to help the ISS crew members maintain EVA proficiency or train for contingency repairs during their mission, the Johnson Space Center's VRLab designed an immersive ISS Virtual Reality Trainer (VRT). The VRT incorporates a unique optical system that makes use of the already successful Dynamic On-board Ubiquitous Graphics (DOUG) software to assist crew members with procedure reviews and contingency EVAs while on board the Station. The need to train and re-train crew members for EVAs and contingency scenarios is crucial and extremely demanding. ISS crew members are now asked to perform EVA tasks for which they have not been trained and potentially have never seen before. The Virtual Reality Trainer (VRT) provides an immersive 3D environment similar to the one experienced at the VRLab crew training facility at the NASA Johnson Space Center. VRT bridges the gap by allowing crew members to experience an interactive, 3D environment to reinforce skills already learned and to explore new work sites and repair procedures outside the Station.

Short-term adaptations following Complex Training in team-sports: A meta-analysis

PubMed Central

Martinez-Rodriguez, Alejandro; Calleja-González, Julio; Alcaraz, Pedro E.

2017-01-01

Objective The purpose of this meta-analysis was to study the short-term adaptations on sprint and vertical jump (VJ) performance following Complex Training (CT) in team-sports. CT is a resistance training method aimed at developing both strength and power, which has a direct effect on sprint and VJ. It consists on alternating heavy resistance training exercises with plyometric/power ones, set for set, on the same workout. Methods A search of electronic databases up to July 2016 (PubMed-MEDLINE, SPORTDiscus, Web of Knowledge) was conducted. Inclusion criteria: 1) at least one CT intervention group; 2) training protocols ≥4-wks; 3) sample of team-sport players; 4) sprint or VJ as an outcome variable. Effect sizes (ES) of each intervention were calculated and subgroup analyses were performed. Results A total of 9 studies (13 CT groups) met the inclusion criteria. Medium effect sizes (ES) (ES = 0.73) were obtained for pre-post improvements in sprint, and small (ES = 0.41) in VJ, following CT. Experimental-groups presented better post-intervention sprint (ES = 1.01) and VJ (ES = 0.63) performance than control-groups. Sprint large ESs were exhibited in younger athletes (<20 years old; ES = 1.13); longer CT interventions (≥6 weeks; ES = 0.95); conditioning activities with intensities ≤85% 1RM (ES = 0.96) and protocols with frequencies of <3 sessions/week (ES = 0.84). Medium ESs were obtained in Division I players (ES = 0.76); training programs >12 total sessions (ES = 0.74). VJ Large ESs in programs with >12 total sessions (ES = 0.81). Medium ESs obtained for under-Division I individuals (ES = 0.56); protocols with intracomplex rest intervals ≥2 min (ES = 0.55); conditioning activities with intensities ≤85% 1RM (ES = 0.64); basketball/volleyball players (ES = 0.55). Small ESs were found for younger athletes (ES = 0.42); interventions ≥6 weeks (ES = 0.45). Conclusions CT interventions have positive medium effects on sprint performance and small effects on VJ in team-sport athletes. This training method is a suitable option to include in the season planning. PMID:28662108

Continuous, data-rich appraisal of surgical trainees' operative abilities: a novel approach for measuring performance and providing feedback.

PubMed

Roach, Paul B; Roggin, Kevin K; Selkov, Gene; Posner, Mitchell C; Silverstein, Jonathan C

2009-01-01

We developed a convenient mechanism, Surgical Training and Assessment Tool (STAT), to accomplish detailed, continuous analysis of surgical trainees' operative abilities, and a simple method, Quality Based Surgical Training (QBST) for implementing it. Using a web-accessed computer program, attending physicians and trainees independently assessed the trainee's operative performance after every operative (training) case. Global attributes of surgical knowledge, skill, and independence were assessed as well as the key technical maneuvers of each operation. A system of hierarchical, expandable menus specific to each of hundreds of different surgical procedures allowed the assessments to be made as detailed or as general as the users felt were necessary. In addition, freehand, unscripted commentary was recorded via an optional "remarks" box feature. Finally, an independently chosen, "overall" grade scaled F through A+ concluded each assessment. Over a 31 month period, 72 different users (52 trainees, 20 attending physicians) submitted 3849 performance assessments on 2424 cases, including 132 different case types and amassing 68,260 distinct data points. The mean number of data points per trainee was 1313; the median time spent per assessment was 60 seconds. Graphic displays allowed formative review of individual cases in real time, and summative review of long term trends. Appraisals of knowledge, skill, and independence were strongly correlated with and independently predictive of the overall competency grade (model r(2) = 0.68; test of predictive significance p < 0.001 for each rating). Trainee and attending physician scores were highly correlated (> 0.7) with one another. QBST/STAT achieves detailed, continuous analysis of surgical trainees' operative abilities, and facilitates timely, specific, and thorough feedback regarding their performance in theater. QBST/STAT promotes trainee self-reflection and generation of continuous, transparent, iterative training goals.

Undergraduate athletic training students' influences on career decisions after graduation.

PubMed

Mazerolle, Stephanie M; Gavin, Kerri E; Pitney, William A; Casa, Douglas J; Burton, Laura

2012-01-01

Career opportunities for athletic training students (ATSs) have increased substantially over the past few years. However, ATSs commonly appear to be opting for a more diversified professional experience after graduation. With the diversity in available options, an understanding of career decision is imperative. To use the theoretical framework of socialization to investigate the influential factors behind the postgraduation decisions of senior ATSs. Qualitative study. Web-based management system and telephone interviews. Twenty-two ATSs (16 females, 6 males; age = 22 ± 2 years) who graduated in May 2010 from 13 different programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education. All interviews were transcribed verbatim, and the data were analyzed inductively. Data analysis required independent coding by 2 athletic trainers for specific themes. Credibility of the results was confirmed via peer review, methodologic triangulation, and multiple analyst triangulation. Two higher-order themes emerged from the data analysis: persistence in athletic training (AT) and decision to leave AT. Faculty and clinical instructor support, marketability, and professional growth were supporting themes describing persistence in AT. Shift of interest away from AT, lack of respect for the AT profession, compensation, time commitment, and AT as a stepping stone were themes sustaining the reasons that ATSs leave AT. The aforementioned reasons to leave often were discussed collectively, generating a collective undesirable outlook on the AT profession. Our results highlight the importance of faculty support, professional growth, and early socialization into AT. Socialization of pre-AT students could alter retention rates by providing in-depth information about the profession before students commit in their undergraduate education and by helping reduce attrition before entrance into the workforce.

Applied Virtual Reality in Reusable Launch Vehicle Design, Operations Development, and Training

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hale, Joseph P.

1997-01-01

Application of Virtual Reality (VR) technology offers much promise to enhance and accelerate the development of Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) infrastructure and operations while simultaneously reducing developmental and operational costs. One of the primary cost areas in the RLV concept that is receiving special attention is maintenance and refurbishment operations. To produce and operate a cost effective RLV, turnaround cost must be minimized. Designing for maintainability is a necessary requirement in developing RLVs. VR can provide cost effective methods to design and evaluate components and systems for maintenance and refurbishment operations. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)/Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) is beginning to utilize VR for design, operations development, and design analysis for RLVs. A VR applications program has been under development at NASA/MSFC since 1989. The objectives of the MSFC VR Applications Program are to develop, assess, validate, and utilize VR in hardware development, operations development and support, mission operations training and science training. The NASA/MSFC VR capability has also been utilized in several applications. These include: 1) the assessment of the design of the late Space Station Freedom Payload Control Area (PCA), the control room from which onboard payload operations are managed; 2) a viewing analysis of the Tethered Satellite System's (TSS) "end-of-reel" tether marking options; 3) development of a virtual mockup of the International Space Welding Experiment for science viewing analyses from the Shuttle Remote Manipulator System elbow camera and as a trainer for ground controllers; and 4) teleoperations using VR. This presentation will give a general overview of the MSFC VR Applications Program and describe the use of VR in design analyses, operations development, and training for RLVs.

An Overview of Chain of Custody Options for LETTERPRESS.

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

Smartt, Heidi A.

2016-11-01

This purpose of this document is to provide an overview of Chain of Custody (CoC) technology options that could be made available for the LETTERPRESS exercise as part of the Quad Working Group. The Quad Working Group comprises five sub-working groups (Management, Protocol, Simulation, Technology, and Training) with members from the U.S., U.K., Norway, and Sweden having the goal of providing a repeatable, realistic arms control exercise (dubbed LETTERPRESS) to be executed in representative facilities and using non-proliferative but representative treaty items. The Technology Working Group is responsible for supporting the technology requirements of the LETTERPRESS exercise and as suchmore » the technologies presented here are possible options to meet those requirements.« less

The effectiveness of Robot-Assisted Gait Training versus conventional therapy on mobility in severely disabled progressIve MultiplE sclerosis patients (RAGTIME): study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Straudi, Sofia; Manfredini, Fabio; Lamberti, Nicola; Zamboni, Paolo; Bernardi, Francesco; Marchetti, Giovanna; Pinton, Paolo; Bonora, Massimo; Secchiero, Paola; Tisato, Veronica; Volpato, Stefano; Basaglia, Nino

2017-02-27

Gait and mobility impairments affect the quality of life (QoL) of patients with progressive multiple sclerosis (MS). Robot-assisted gait training (RAGT) is an effective rehabilitative treatment but evidence of its superiority compared to other options is lacking. Furthermore, the response to rehabilitation is multidimensional, person-specific and possibly involves functional reorganization processes. The aims of this study are: (1) to test the effectiveness on gait speed, mobility, balance, fatigue and QoL of RAGT compared to conventional therapy (CT) in progressive MS and (2) to explore changes of clinical and circulating biomarkers of neural plasticity. This will be a parallel-group, randomized controlled trial design with the assessor blinded to the group allocation of participants. Ninety-eight (49 per arm) progressive MS patients (EDSS scale 6-7) will be randomly assigned to receive twelve 2-h training sessions over a 4-week period (three sessions/week) of either: (1) RAGT intervention on a robotic-driven gait orthosis (Lokomat, Hocoma, Switzerland). The training parameters (torque of the knee and hip drives, treadmill speed, body weight support) are set during the first session and progressively adjusted during training progression or (2) individual conventional physiotherapy focusing on over-ground walking training performed with the habitual walking device. The same assessors will perform outcome measurements at four time points: baseline (before the first intervention session); intermediate (after six training sessions); end of treatment (after the completion of 12 sessions); and follow-up (after 3 months from the end of the training program). The primary outcome is gait speed, assessed by the Timed 25-Foot Walk Test. We will also assess walking endurance, balance, depression, fatigue and QoL as well as instrumental laboratory markers (muscle metabolism, cerebral venous hemodynamics, cortical activation) and circulating laboratory markers (rare circulating cell populations pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines/chemokines, growth factors, neurotrophic factors, coagulation factors, other plasma proteins suggested by transcriptomic analysis and metabolic parameters). The RAGT training is expected to improve mobility compared to the active control intervention in progressive MS. Unique to this study is the analysis of various potential markers of plasticity in relation with clinical outcomes. ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT02421731 . Registered on 19 January 2015 (retrospectively registered).

A computer program for the design and analysis of low-speed airfoils, supplement

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Eppler, R.; Somers, D. M.

1980-01-01

Three new options were incorporated into an existing computer program for the design and analysis of low speed airfoils. These options permit the analysis of airfoils having variable chord (variable geometry), a boundary layer displacement iteration, and the analysis of the effect of single roughness elements. All three options are described in detail and are included in the FORTRAN IV computer program.

Training in reproductive endocrinology and infertility and assisted reproductive technologies: options and worldwide needs.

PubMed

de Ziegler, Dominique; de Ziegler, Nathalie; Sean, Sokteang; Bajouh, Osama; Meldrum, David R

2015-07-01

Standardized, high-quality training in reproductive endocrinology, infertility, and assisted reproductive technologies (REI-ART) faces challenges owing to the high-tech nature of ART and the important country-to-country differences in clinical practice and regulations overseeing training. Moreover, while the training capacity of the classical by-fellowship training platforms is shrinking, an increasing demand for REI-ART specialists is coming from emerging countries. To meet this expanding need for REI-ART specialists, we propose a novel by-network model linking a reference training center to satellite practical training sites. Simulation should be used more extensively to achieve competency before initiating live clinical experience, analogous to the highly effective training systems that have been used in aviation for decades. Large ART databases that exist because of obligations to report ART activity and results constitute unique yet so far untapped sources for developing by-scenario simulation training models. Online training materials incorporating these state-of-the-art information technology tools could be developed as a means of fulfilling training needs worldwide. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Homeless Mentally Ill. Problems and Options in Estimating Numbers and Trends.

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-08-01

Susser (1986) DSM-1ll (SCID) clinicians on schizophreniform schizoaffective depressed schizoaffective - bipolar depression with psychotic features other...Schizophrenia Lifetime trained interviewers on schizophrenia Version (SADS-L) schizoaffective anxiety. and personality disorders alcoholism and drug abuse

Empowering Physicians with Financial Literacy.

PubMed

Bar-Or, Yuval

2015-01-01

Most doctors complete their medical training without sufficient knowledge of business and finance. This leads to inefficient financial decisions, avoidable losses, and unnecessary anxiety. A big part of the problem is that the existing options for gaining financial knowledge are flawed. The ideal solution is to provide a simple framework of financial literacy to all students: one that can be adapted to their specific circumstances. That framework must be delivered by an objective expert to young physicians before they complete medical training.

Defense Infrastructure: Army Brigade Combat Team Inactivations Informed by Analyses, but Actions Needed to Improve Stationing Process

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-12-01

quantity of brigade combat team facilities. Buildable acres Sum of all the buildable acreage on the installation not counting training land. Urban sprawl ...socioeconomic impacts , among others, and develop stationing options for decision makers. The Army also considered other factors, or attributes—such as training...out. Army officials said that the model has generally been used for large- impact stationing decisions and may not be appropriate for minor

Army Science Board: Report of the Ad Hoc Subgroup on the Army Community and Their Families

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-05-01

is viewed as a desirable option for young men and women who seek skilled employment, career advancement, job stability, and need employee benefits...Relationship Effectiveness Training (RET) and the Community Counseling Center (CCC). These services deal with a wide range of emotional , drug, alcohol, spouse...they increase family self-sufficiency. One program that needs to be strengthened is that of training families in the techniques of effective arenting

Training for Aviation Decision Making: The Naturalistic Decision Making Perspective

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Orasanu, Judith; Shafto, Michael G. (Technical Monitor)

1995-01-01

This paper describes the implications of a naturalistic decision making (NDM) perspective for training air crews to make flight-related decisions. The implications are based on two types of analyses: (a) identification of distinctive features that serve as a basis for classifying a diverse set of decision events actually encountered by flight crews, and (b) performance strategies that distinguished more from less effective crews flying full-mission simulators, as well as performance analyses from NTSB accident investigations. Six training recommendations are offered: (1) Because of the diversity of decision situations, crews need to be aware that different strategies may be appropriate for different problems; (2) Given that situation assessment is essential to making a good decision, it is important to train specific content knowledge needed to recognize critical conditions, to assess risks and available time, and to develop strategies to verify or diagnose the problem; (3) Tendencies to oversimplify problems may be overcome by training to evaluate options in terms of goals, constraints, consequences, and prevailing conditions; (4) In order to provide the time to gather information and consider options, it is essential to manage the situation, which includes managing crew workload, prioritizing tasks, contingency planning, buying time (e.g., requesting holding or vectors), and using low workload periods to prepare for high workload; (5) Evaluating resource requirements ("What do I need?") and capabilities ("'What do I have?" ) are essential to making good decisions. Using resources to meet requirements may involve the cabin crew, ATC, dispatchers, and maintenance personnel; (6) Given that decisions must often be made under high risk, time pressure, and workload, train under realistic flight conditions to promote the development of robust decision skills.

Telelearning standards and their application in medical education.

PubMed

Duplaga, Mariusz; Juszkiewicz, Krzysztof; Leszczuk, Mikolaj

2004-01-01

Medial education, both on the graduate and postgraduate levels, has become a real challenge nowadays. The volume of information in medical sciences grows so rapidly that many health professionals experience essential problems in keeping track of the state of the art in this domain. e-learning offers important advantages to medical education continuation due to its universal availability and opportunity for implementation of flexible patterns of training. An important trace of medical education is developing practical skills. Some examples of standardization efforts include: the CEN/ISSS Workshop on Learning Technology (WSLT), the Advanced Learning Infrastructure Consortium (ALIC), Education Network Australia (EdNA) and PROmoting Multimedia access to Education and Training in European Society (PROMETEUS). Sun Microsystems' support (Sun ONE, iPlanetTM ) for many of the above-mentioned standards is described as well. Development of a medical digital video library with recordings of invasive procedures incorporating additional information and commentary may improve the efficiency of the training process in interventional medicine. A digital video library enabling access to videos of interventional procedures performed in the area of thoracic medicine may be a valuable element for developing practical skills. The library has been filled with video resources recorded at the Department of Interventional Pulmonology; it enhances training options for pulmonologists and thoracic surgeons. The main focus was put on demonstration of bronchofiberoscopic and videothoracoscopic procedures. The opportunity to browse video recordings of procedures performed in the specific field also considerably enhances the options for training in other medical specialties. In the era of growing health consumer awareness, patients are also perceived as the target audience for medical digital libraries. As a case study of Computer-Based Training systems, the Medical Digital Video Library is presented.

Integration of MOOCs in Advanced Mining Training Programmes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saveleva, Irina; Greenwald, Oksana; Kolomiets, Svetlana; Medvedeva, Elena

2017-11-01

The paper covers the concept of innovative approaches in education based on incorporating MOOCs options into traditional classroom. It takes a look at the ways higher education instructors working with the mining engineers enrolled in advanced training programmes can brighten, upgrade and facilitate the learning process. The shift of higher education from in-class to online format has changed the learning environment and the methods of teaching including professional retraining courses. In addition, the need of mining companies for managers of a new kind obligates high school retraining centres rapidly move towards the 21st century skill framework. One of widely recognized innovations in the sphere of e-learning is MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) that can be used as an effective teaching tool for organizing professional training of managing staff of mining companies within the walls of a university. The authors share their instructional experience and show the benefits of introducing MOOCs options at the courses designed for retraining mining engineers and senior managers of coal enterprises. Though in recent researches the pedagogical value of MOOCs is highly questioned and even negated this invention of the 21st century can become an essential and truly helpful instrument in the hands of educators.

The influence of nontraditional training modalities on physical performance: review of the literature.

PubMed

O'Hara, Reginald B; Serres, Jennifer; Traver, Kyle L; Wright, Bruce; Vojta, Chris; Eveland, Ed

2012-10-01

The primary purpose of this effort was to review several forms of nontraditional (NT) training programs, including heavy lower extremity strength training, CrossFit training, kettlebell training, and agility training, and discuss the effects of these exercise regimens on physical performance. The secondary purpose was to evaluate NT fitness training programs for evidence that they may provide beneficial options to help airmen improve their fitness scores. A search of the literature for 1980-2010 was performed using the Franzello Aeromedical Library, Public Medicine, and Air Force Institute of Technology search engines. There were 50 articles located and the authors selected 29 articles that specifically addressed the primary and secondary purposes of this literature review. This review indicates that an NT training approach is warranted in the general Air Force population. Heavy leg strength training and agility training show promise in enhancing aerobic fitness and improving fitness scores, particularly among members who have difficulty passing a physical fitness test. Most of the nontraditional forms of physical training are not supported in the scientific literature, with the exception of heavy leg strength training and agility training. However, even these NT forms of training require further investigation.

Placing the power of real options analysis into the hands of natural resource managers - taking the next step.

PubMed

Nelson, Rohan; Howden, Mark; Hayman, Peter

2013-07-30

This paper explores heuristic methods with potential to place the analytical power of real options analysis into the hands of natural resource managers. The complexity of real options analysis has led to patchy or ephemeral adoption even by corporate managers familiar with the financial-market origins of valuation methods. Intuitively accessible methods for estimating the value of real options have begun to evolve, but their evaluation has mostly been limited to researcher-driven applications. In this paper we work closely with Bush Heritage Australia to evaluate the potential of real options analysis to support the intuitive judgement of conservation estate managers in covenanting land with uncertain future conservation value due to climate change. The results show that modified decision trees have potential to estimate the option value of covenanting individual properties while time and ongoing research resolves their future conservation value. Complementing this, Luehrman's option space has potential to assist managers with limited budgets to increase the portfolio value of multiple properties with different conservation attributes. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Diagnosis and Management of Adnexal Masses in Pregnancy

PubMed Central

Yakasai, Ibrahim Adamu; Bappa, Lawal Abdullahi

2012-01-01

Widespread use of ultrasound in early pregnancy has led to the detection of incidental adnexal masses more frequently. This article reviews the diagnosis and management options for adnexal masses in pregnancy. The availability of high-resolution ultrasound has made observation to be a viable option in some cases. However, for those masses suspicious of malignancy, at risk of torsion, rupture, or clinically symptomatic, surgical treatment is warranted. Laparoscopy has been successfully used in pregnancy and is safe in experienced and trained hands in properly equipped units. PMID:23741580

Preparing Physicians for Rural-Based Primary Care Practice: A Preliminary Evaluation of Rural Training Initiatives at OSU-COM.

PubMed

Wheeler, Denna L; Hackler, Jeffrey B

2017-05-01

The physician shortage in Oklahoma coupled with geographic maldistribution of primary care physicians limits access to care in rural and underserved areas. One of the most effective strategies to recruit and retain physicians in rural areas is to create undergraduate and graduate medical education training sites in these locations. Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine has implemented a rural training program that begins with early recruitment of rural high school students, introduces medical students to rural practice options through rural clinical training opportunities, and provides opportunities to remain in rural Oklahoma for residency training through ongoing graduate medical education development. The purpose of this article is to provide a case study of the development of the college's Rural Medical Track. Preliminary findings indicate that rural-based clinical training for third- and fourth-year students strengthens performance on standardized tests.

Teachers' Training and Involvement in School Health Programme in Oyo State, Southwest Nigeria.

PubMed

Adebayo, A M; Makinde, G I; Omode, P K

2018-02-01

School Health Programme (SHP) currently lacks effective implementation in Nigeria. Lack of training/orientation of teachers in the programme may have contributed to this. Developing an appropriate training intervention may require prior situation analysis to know teachers' current level of training and involvement in the programme, as there is paucity of information on such study in Oyo State. Thus, this study was carried out to assess primary school teachers' training and involvement in the SHP in Oyo state, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using a 2-stage cluster sampling method to select 2 out of the 33 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Oyo State. A semi-structured self-administered questionnaire was used to obtain information on respondents' characteristics and previous training and involvement in the SHP. The major variable for assessing teachers' involvement in the SHP was "ever been involved in health inspection of pupils". Level of involvement was categorized into "never, "once", "occasionally", "frequently", and "very regularly". These options were further re-categorized into "never", "infrequently" (once and occasionally) and "frequently" (frequently and very regularly) for the purpose of inferential statistics. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square test at p=0.05. A total of 811 respondents participated in the study. Twenty-eight percent of the respondents reported previous training in the SHP out of whom 44.7% received the training on-the-job. Forty-seven percent were regularly involved in health inspection of pupils. Teachers who taught health education (92.3%) were involved in health inspection of pupils compared with counterparts who did not (74.4%) (p<0.001). Similarly, 85.3% of teachers trained on-the-job were frequently involved in the SHP compared with 73.6% of those trained during undergraduate years (p=0.026). Training and involvement of public primary school teachers in the SHP in Oyo State were suboptimal. Efforts at building the capacity of teachers through on-the-job training in SHP may be necessary to improving the current level of implementation in the State.

Neuromuscular electrical stimulation and the treatment of lower urinary tract dysfunction in multiple sclerosis--a double blind, placebo controlled, randomised clinical trial.

PubMed

McClurg, D; Ashe, R G; Lowe-Strong, A S

2008-01-01

Lower urinary tract dysfunction affects up to 75% of the multiple sclerosis population. Results from our recent Pilot Study (McClurg et al., 2006) indicated that a combined programme of pelvic floor muscle training, electromyography biofeedback and neuromuscular electrical stimulation modalities may alleviate some of the distressing symptoms within this population. This clinical trial aimed to evaluate further the efficacy of these interventions and to establish the benefit of neuromuscular electrical stimulation above and beyond that of EMG biofeedback and pelvic floor muscle training. 74 multiple sclerosis patients who presented with lower urinary tract dysfunction were randomly allocated to one of two groups - Group 1 received Pelvic Floor Muscle Training, Electromyography Biofeedback and Placebo Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (n=37), and Group 2 which received Pelvic Floor Muscle Training, Electromyography Biofeedback, and Active Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (n=37). Treatment was for nine weeks with outcome measures recorded at weeks 0, 9, 16 and 24. The Primary Outcome Measure was the number of leakage episodes. Within group analysis was by Paired Samples t-test. Group differences were analysed using Repeated Measures Analysis of Variance and Post-hoc tests were used to determine the significance of differences between Groups at each time point. The mean number of incontinence episodes were reduced in Group 2 by 85% (p=0.001) whereas in Group 1 a lesser reduction of 47% (p=0.001) was observed. However, there was a statistically superior benefit in Group 2 when compared to Group 1 (p=0.0028). This superior benefit was evident in all other outcome measures. The addition of Active Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation to a programme of Pelvic Floor Muscle Training and Electromyography Biofeedback should be considered as a first-line option in alleviating some of the symptoms of lower urinary tract dysfunction associated with multiple sclerosis. (c) 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

[Demography and training of residents in gynaecology and obstetrics: results of a national survey].

PubMed

Bendifallah, S; Hudry, D; Niangoh Timoh, K; Yaribakht, S; Boyon, C; Wafo, E

2012-01-01

To survey French trainees in obstetrics and gynaecology on the general demographic evolution and the quality of training. A questionnaire was sent to the 919 trainees in obstetrics and gynaecology during the academic year 2010-2011. Answer rate was 38.5%. Almost all trainees (99.4%) wish to have a two-year hospital position before applying for consultant or beginning a private practice; 60.4% of these trainees declare this option realistic. Trainees demography is marked by an increasing number of young doctors to train and a feminization. The need of a debate is crucial to assure quality of training after the recent increase in the number of residents and trainees reforms. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Raising the Investment Quotient.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kraack, Paul F.

1998-01-01

Describes efforts in suburban Atlanta's Clayton County to improve existing schools, build new ones, and retire old debts through the passage of a special local-option sales tax. Discusses increases in student achievement, improved technology training and implementation, and relations with the community. (LRW)

Downsizing: Fat Reduction or Fool's Gold?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Teece, Phil

1999-01-01

Discussion of downsizing in organizations focuses on Australian libraries. Topics include rationales behind downsizing; negative results in terms of equity and efficiency; guidelines and other options for responsible restructuring, including skills training, continuous learning programs, information sharing, and employee participation; jobs for…

The Vendors' Corner: Biblio-Techniques' Library and Information System (BLIS).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Library Software Review, 1984

1984-01-01

Describes online catalog and integrated library computer system designed to enhance Washington Library Network's software. Highlights include system components; implementation options; system features (integrated library functions, database design, system management facilities); support services (installation and training, software maintenance and…

Interactive Materials In The Teaching Of Astronomy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Macêdo, J. A.; Voelzke, M. R.

2014-10-01

This study presents results of a survey conducted at the Federal Institution of Education, Science and Technology in the North of Minas Gerais (IFNMG), and aimed to investigate the potentialities of the use of interactive materials in the teaching of astronomy. An advanced training course with involved learning activities about basic concepts of astronomy was offered to thirty-two Licenciate students in Physics, Mathematics and Biological Science. The following steps were to be taken: i) analysis of the pedagogical projects (PPC) of the licenciates at the IFNMG, research locus of its Campus Januária; ii) analysis of students' preconceptions about astronomy and digital technologies, identified by the application of an initial questionnaire; iii) preparation of the course taking into account the students' previous knowledge; iv) application of the education proposal developed under part-time presence modality, using various interactive tools; v) application and analysis of the final questionnaire. The test was conducted with the qualitative and quantitative methodology, combined with a content analysis. The results indicated that in the IFNMG only the licenciate-course in physics includes astronomy content diluted in various subjects of the curriculum; the rates of students prior knowledge in relation to astronomy was low; an evidence of meaningful learning of the concepts related to astronomy, and of viability of resource use involving digital technologies in the Teaching of astronomy, which may contribute to the broadening of methodological options of future teachers and meet their training needs.

Snow Radiance Data Assimilation over High Mountain Asia Using the NASA Land Information System and a Well-Trained Support Vector Machine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kwon, Y.; Forman, B. A.; Yoon, Y.; Kumar, S.

2017-12-01

High Mountain Asia (HMA) has been progressively losing ice and snow in recent decades, which could negatively impact regional water supply and native ecosystems. One goal of this study is to characterize the spatiotemporal variability of snow (and ice) across the HMA region. In addition, modeled snow water equivalent (SWE) estimates will be enhanced through the assimilation of passive microwave brightness temperatures (TB) collected by the Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer for Earth Observing System (AMSR-E) as part of a radiance assimilation system. The radiance assimilation framework includes the NASA Land Information System (LIS) in conjunction with a well-trained support vector machine (SVM) that acts as the observation operator. The Noah Land Surface Model with multi-parameterization options (Noah-MP) is used as the prior model for simulating snow dynamics. Noah-MP is forced by meteorological fields from the NASA Modern-Era Retrospective analysis for Research and Applications, version 2 (MERRA-2) atmospheric reanalysis for the periods 01 Sep. 2002 to 01 Sep. 2011. The radiance assimilation system requires two separate phases: 1) training and 2) assimilation. During the training phase, a nonlinear SVM is generated for three different AMSR-E frequencies - 10.65, 18.7, and 36.5 GHz - at both vertical and horizontal polarization. The trained SVM is then used to predict TB during the assimilation phase. An ensemble Kalman filter will be used to condition the model on AMSR-E brightness temperatures not used during SVM training. The performance of the Noah-MP (with and without radiance assimilation) will be assessed via comparison to in-situ measurements, remotely-sensing geophysical retrievals, and other reanalysis products.

The effects of a free-weight-based resistance training intervention on pain, squat biomechanics and MRI-defined lumbar fat infiltration and functional cross-sectional area in those with chronic low back.

PubMed

Welch, Neil; Moran, Kieran; Antony, Joseph; Richter, Chris; Marshall, Brendan; Coyle, Joe; Falvey, Eanna; Franklyn-Miller, Andrew

2015-01-01

Low back pain is one of the most prevalent musculoskeletal conditions in the world. Many exercise treatment options exist but few interventions have utilised free-weight resistance training. To investigate the effects of a free-weight-based resistance training intervention on pain and lumbar fat infiltration in those with chronic low back pain. Thirty participants entered the study, 11 females (age=39.6±12.4 years, height=164 cm±5.3 cm, body mass=70.9±8.2 kg,) and 19 males (age=39.7±9.7 years, height=179±5.9 cm, body mass=86.6±15.9 kg). A 16-week, progressive, free-weight-based resistance training intervention was used. Participants completed three training sessions per week. Participants completed a Visual Analogue Pain Scale, Oswestry Disability Index and Euro-Qol V2 quality of life measure at baseline and every 4 weeks throughout the study. Three-dimensional kinematic and kinetic measures were used for biomechanical analysis of a bodyweight squat movement. Maximum strength was measured using an isometric mid-thigh pull, and lumbar paraspinal endurance was measured using a Biering-Sorensen test. Lumbar paraspinal fat infiltration was measured preintervention and postintervention using MRIs. Postintervention pain, disability and quality of life were all significantly improved. In addition, there was a significant reduction in fat infiltration at the L3L4 and L4L5 levels and increase in lumbar extension time to exhaustion of 18%. A free-weight-based resistance training intervention can be successfully utilised to improve pain, disability and quality of life in those with low back pain.

A comparison of machine learning and Bayesian modelling for molecular serotyping.

PubMed

Newton, Richard; Wernisch, Lorenz

2017-08-11

Streptococcus pneumoniae is a human pathogen that is a major cause of infant mortality. Identifying the pneumococcal serotype is an important step in monitoring the impact of vaccines used to protect against disease. Genomic microarrays provide an effective method for molecular serotyping. Previously we developed an empirical Bayesian model for the classification of serotypes from a molecular serotyping array. With only few samples available, a model driven approach was the only option. In the meanwhile, several thousand samples have been made available to us, providing an opportunity to investigate serotype classification by machine learning methods, which could complement the Bayesian model. We compare the performance of the original Bayesian model with two machine learning algorithms: Gradient Boosting Machines and Random Forests. We present our results as an example of a generic strategy whereby a preliminary probabilistic model is complemented or replaced by a machine learning classifier once enough data are available. Despite the availability of thousands of serotyping arrays, a problem encountered when applying machine learning methods is the lack of training data containing mixtures of serotypes; due to the large number of possible combinations. Most of the available training data comprises samples with only a single serotype. To overcome the lack of training data we implemented an iterative analysis, creating artificial training data of serotype mixtures by combining raw data from single serotype arrays. With the enhanced training set the machine learning algorithms out perform the original Bayesian model. However, for serotypes currently lacking sufficient training data the best performing implementation was a combination of the results of the Bayesian Model and the Gradient Boosting Machine. As well as being an effective method for classifying biological data, machine learning can also be used as an efficient method for revealing subtle biological insights, which we illustrate with an example.

Telehealth innovations in health education and training.

PubMed

Conde, José G; De, Suvranu; Hall, Richard W; Johansen, Edward; Meglan, Dwight; Peng, Grace C Y

2010-01-01

Telehealth applications are increasingly important in many areas of health education and training. In addition, they will play a vital role in biomedical research and research training by facilitating remote collaborations and providing access to expensive/remote instrumentation. In order to fulfill their true potential to leverage education, training, and research activities, innovations in telehealth applications should be fostered across a range of technology fronts, including online, on-demand computational models for simulation; simplified interfaces for software and hardware; software frameworks for simulations; portable telepresence systems; artificial intelligence applications to be applied when simulated human patients are not options; and the development of more simulator applications. This article presents the results of discussion on potential areas of future development, barries to overcome, and suggestions to translate the promise of telehealth applications into a transformed environment of training, education, and research in the health sciences.

Communication Skills Training in Pediatric Oncology: Moving Beyond Role Modeling

PubMed Central

Feraco, Angela M.; Brand, Sarah R.; Mack, Jennifer W.; Kesselheim, Jennifer C.; Block, Susan D.; Wolfe, Joanne

2018-01-01

Communication is central to pediatric oncology care. Pediatric oncologists disclose life-threatening diagnoses, explain complicated treatment options, and endeavor to give honest prognoses, to maintain hope, to describe treatment complications, and to support families in difficult circumstances ranging from loss of function and fertility to treatment-related or disease-related death. However, parents, patients, and providers report substantial communication deficits. Poor communication outcomes may stem, in part, from insufficient communication skills training, overreliance on role modeling, and failure to utilize best practices. This review summarizes evidence for existing methods to enhance communication skills and calls for revitalizing communication skills training within pediatric oncology. PMID:26822066

Communication Skills Training in Pediatric Oncology: Moving Beyond Role Modeling.

PubMed

Feraco, Angela M; Brand, Sarah R; Mack, Jennifer W; Kesselheim, Jennifer C; Block, Susan D; Wolfe, Joanne

2016-06-01

Communication is central to pediatric oncology care. Pediatric oncologists disclose life-threatening diagnoses, explain complicated treatment options, and endeavor to give honest prognoses, to maintain hope, to describe treatment complications, and to support families in difficult circumstances ranging from loss of function and fertility to treatment-related or disease-related death. However, parents, patients, and providers report substantial communication deficits. Poor communication outcomes may stem, in part, from insufficient communication skills training, overreliance on role modeling, and failure to utilize best practices. This review summarizes evidence for existing methods to enhance communication skills and calls for revitalizing communication skills training within pediatric oncology. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Effect of visual biofeedback cycling training on gait in patients with multiple sclerosis.

PubMed

Hochsprung, A; Granja Domínguez, A; Magni, E; Escudero Uribe, S; Moreno García, A

2017-09-06

Gait alterations are present in a high percentage of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). They appear from early stages of the disease and can limit patients' capacity to perform basic activities of daily living, affecting their quality of life. Visual biofeedback cycling training appears to be a useful tool in treating these impairments. This study aims to evaluate the short-term effect of visual biofeedback cycling training on gait in patients with MS. A total of 61 patients with mild to moderate MS were randomly assigned to a control group and an intervention group. The intervention group received visual biofeedback cycling training (MOTOmed viva2 system) once per week for 3 months, and a home exercise program. The control group only received the home exercise program. Both groups were evaluated using the GAITRite ® Walkway gait assessment system before the intervention, during the first month of the programme, and after the intervention. In the intervention group, the analysis revealed statistically significant differences between Functional Ambulation Profile (FAP) scores before and during the intervention (P=.014), and before and after the intervention (P=.002). A statistically significant improvement was observed in step length in the intervention group between pre- and post-intervention scores (P=.001) and between first-month and post-intervention scores (P=.004). Visual biofeedback cycling training improved specific gait parameters in the short term and appears to be a therapeutic option for gait retraining in patients with MS. Copyright © 2017 Sociedad Española de Neurología. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

How are Canadian universities training and supporting undergraduate medical, physiotherapy and occupational therapy students for global health experiences in international low-resource settings?

PubMed

Bessette, Jennifer; Camden, Chantal

2016-12-27

Canadian medical (MD), physiotherapy (PT) and occupational therapy (OT) students increasingly show an interest in global health experiences (GHEs). As certain moral hazards can occur as a result of student GHEs, a growing consensus exists that universities must have an established selection process, in-depth pre-departure training (PDT), adequate onsite supervision and formal debriefing for their students. This study aimed to identify current practices in Canadian MD, PT and OT programs and discuss areas for improvement by comparing them with recommendations found in the literature. Canadian MD, PT and OT programs (n = 45) were invited to answer an online survey about their current practices for GHE support and training. The survey included 24 close-ended questions and 18 open-ended questions. Descriptive statistics and a thematic analysis were performed on the data and results were discussed in comparison with recommendations found in the literature. Twenty-three programs responded to the survey. Student selection processes varied across universities; examples included using academic performance, interviews and motivation letters. All but one MD program had mandatory PDT; content and teaching formats varied, as did training duration (2-38 hours). All but one MD program had onsite supervision; local clinicians were frequently involved. Debriefing, although not systematic, covered similar content; debriefing was variable in duration (1-8 hours). Many current practices are encouraging, but areas for improvement exist. Integrating global health content into the regular curriculum, with advanced study options for students participating in GHEs, could help universities standardize support and training.

An Examination of Options to Reduce Underway Training Days through the Use of Simulation

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-01-01

West Coast DDG-51s to Complete ULT During CY 2004–2006 . . . . . . . . . 20 3.2. Number of Exercises Required for a DDG-51–Class Ship, by Mission...questions. We also benefited from discussions with CAPT Bill Johnson of Commander, Naval Sur- face Forces, Pacific, and CAPT Ken Krogman of Commander, Naval...training and is operationally assigned to a numbered fleet commander. West Coast ships are assigned to Commander, Third Fleet (COMTHIRDFLT), and

Freight Transportation Energy Use : Volume 4. Analysis of Selected Energy Conservation Options.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1978-07-01

The TSC Freight Energy Model is applied to a preliminary analysis of two energy conservation options: (1) increased use of Run-Through TOFC rail service; and (2) use of double 40-foot trailers on all divided highways. These options are examined prima...

Providing inbuilt economic resilience options : an obligation of comprehensive cancer care.

PubMed

Cross, Eva Reitschuler; Emanuel, Linda

2008-12-15

For many, a cancer death in the family is the immediately obvious part of what is actually a double devastation. Overwhelming financial damage also results for many families, from the cost of medical care and from the loss of earning power by the patient and family. For some families, the consequences may be multigenerational and can affect the health of the survivors. Although this situation is not limited to cancer, the authors argue that oncology can take a lead in attending to these consequences of cancer as an integral part of its commitment to comprehensive cancer care. They make this case for both the national and the international settings. They also articulate and illustrate the notion of inbuilt options for economic resilience (IERs), which the authors suggest the medical industry, and its cancer care sectors in particular, should be providing to all patients and their families if they are at risk for damaging financial losses. After describing key features to IER, the authors illustrate it with 1 type of approach for households of the terminally ill: hospice care with provision of supplementary training and certification to the family caregiver. Such programming could generate a low-technology, semiskilled healthcare service economy as trained family caregivers provide support to other households in need, thereby both providing a recovery option for themselves and reduced economic devastation to the households which, by receiving the services, can stay in the workforce. Finally, the authors call for invigorated research on the economic impact of cancer on families and for the modeling, demonstration, and study of options for economic resilience, including IER programs.

Nonlethal weapons as force options for the Army

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

Alexander, J.B.

This paper suggests that future challenges to US national security will be very different from those previously experienced. In a number of foreseeable circumstances, conventional military force will be inappropriate. The National Command Authority, and other appropriate levels of command, need expanded options available to meet threats for which the application of massive lethal force is counterproductive or inadvisable. It is proposed that nonlethal concepts be developed that provide additional options for military leaders and politicians. Included in this initiative should be exploration of policy, strategy, doctrine, and training issues as well as the development of selected technologies and weapons.more » In addition, civilian law enforcement agencies have similar requirements for less-than-lethal systems. This may be an excellent example for a joint technology development venture.« less

[Problems in integrative postgraduate medical training of physicians at anthroposophic hospitals in Germany and Switzerland].

PubMed

Heusser, Peter; Eberhard, Sabine; Weinzirl, Johannes; Orlow, Pascale; Berger, Bettina

2014-01-01

Anthroposophic hospitals provide integrative medical care by complementing conventional (CON) with anthroposophic medicine (AM). They teach integrative medicine in postgraduate medical training (PGMT). In a first evaluation of PGMT quality in AM, we analyzed the problems of this training from the perspectives of trainers and trainees. We conducted an anonymous cross-sectional full survey of all trainee and trainer physicians at the 15 AM hospitals in Germany (DE) and Switzerland (CH) with questionnaires of the Swiss Institute of Technology (ETH) Zürich, complemented by a module for AM. We also conducted descriptive statistics for questions with answering scales as well as calculations of group differences (two-tailed Mann-Whitney U test) and a qualitative content analysis (Mayring) of free text answers related to the problem analysis. The response rate in DE embraced 89 out of 215 (41.39%) surveyed trainees and 78 out of 184 (42.39%) trainers; in CH, the response rate comprised 19 out of 25 (76%) trainees and 22 out of 30 (73.33%) trainers. Free text answers related to problem analysis in DE and CH were given by 16 out of 108 (14.8%) trainees and by 20 out of 100 (20%) trainers, overall. Perceived main problems include work overload; shortcomings in work organization; delimitation of competences; interprofessional cooperation; financial resources (trainers); wages (trainees DE); practical relevance of AM (trainees and trainers in DE); professional or didactic competence of trainers; lack of interest in AM (trainees); problems with learning and practicing AM; no curriculum for postgraduate medical training in AM; tensions between AM and CON. Explanations for the differences between DE and CH include larger departments and the DRG system in DE, but also better structural conditions for AM PGMT in CH. Main problems of PGMT in AM include not only non-specific and systemic aspects, but also AM-specific issues. In order to develop a basis for concrete problem solving options, this study will be complemented by an analysis of solution ideas from the perspective of the involved trainers and trainees.

Teenage Pregnancy Prevention.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Peters, Sheila; And Others

1991-01-01

Peer counselors and staff members describe the "I Have a Future" Program at Meharry Medical College in Nashville (Tennessee). This program focuses on pregnancy prevention by providing education, health care, and increased life options; social skills training; an entrepreneurial program; and separate classes for African-American youth.…

Classify epithelium-stroma in histopathological images based on deep transferable network.

PubMed

Yu, X; Zheng, H; Liu, C; Huang, Y; Ding, X

2018-04-20

Recently, the deep learning methods have received more attention in histopathological image analysis. However, the traditional deep learning methods assume that training data and test data have the same distributions, which causes certain limitations in real-world histopathological applications. However, it is costly to recollect a large amount of labeled histology data to train a new neural network for each specified image acquisition procedure even for similar tasks. In this paper, an unsupervised domain adaptation is introduced into a typical deep convolutional neural network (CNN) model to mitigate the repeating of the labels. The unsupervised domain adaptation is implemented by adding two regularisation terms, namely the feature-based adaptation and entropy minimisation, to the object function of a widely used CNN model called the AlexNet. Three independent public epithelium-stroma datasets were used to verify the proposed method. The experimental results have demonstrated that in the epithelium-stroma classification, the proposed method can achieve better performance than the commonly used deep learning methods and some existing deep domain adaptation methods. Therefore, the proposed method can be considered as a better option for the real-world applications of histopathological image analysis because there is no requirement for recollection of large-scale labeled data for every specified domain. © 2018 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2018 Royal Microscopical Society.

41 CFR 102-80.115 - Is there more than one option for establishing that an equivalent level of safety exists?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... equivalent level of safety. (c) As a third option, other technical analysis procedures, as approved by the... Equivalent Level of Safety Analysis § 102-80.115 Is there more than one option for establishing that an... areas of safety. Available safe egress times would be developed based on analysis of a number of assumed...

The cognitive and neural basis of option generation and subsequent choice.

PubMed

Kaiser, Stefan; Simon, Joe J; Kalis, Annemarie; Schweizer, Sophie; Tobler, Philippe N; Mojzisch, Andreas

2013-12-01

Decision-making research has thoroughly investigated how people choose from a set of externally provided options. However, in ill-structured real-world environments, possible options for action are not defined by the situation but have to be generated by the agent. Here, we apply behavioral analysis (Study 1) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (Study 2) to investigate option generation and subsequent choice. For this purpose, we employ a new experimental task that requires participants to generate options for simple real-world scenarios and to subsequently decide among the generated options. Correlational analysis with a cognitive test battery suggests that retrieval of options from long-term memory is a relevant process during option generation. The results of the fMRI study demonstrate that option generation in simple real-world scenarios recruits the anterior prefrontal cortex. Furthermore, we show that choice behavior and its neural correlates differ between self-generated and externally provided options. Specifically, choice between self-generated options is associated with stronger recruitment of the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex. This impact of option generation on subsequent choice underlines the need for an expanded model of decision making to accommodate choice between self-generated options.

Australian rural football club leaders as mental health advocates: an investigation of the impact of the Coach the Coach project

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background Mental ill health, especially depression, is recognised as an important health concern, potentially with greater impact in rural communities. This paper reports on a project, Coach the Coach, in which Australian rural football clubs were the setting and football coaches the leaders in providing greater mental health awareness and capacity to support early help seeking behaviour among young males experiencing mental health difficulties, especially depression. Coaches and other football club leaders were provided with Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training. Method Pre-post measures of the ability of those club leaders undertaking mental health training to recognise depression and schizophrenia and of their knowledge of evidence supported treatment options, and confidence in responding to mental health difficulties were obtained using a questionnaire. This was supplemented by focus group interviews. Pre-post questionnaire data from players in participating football clubs was used to investigate attitudes to depression, treatment options and ability to recognise depression from a clinical scenario. Key project stakeholders were also interviewed. Results Club leaders (n = 36) who were trained in MHFA and club players (n = 275) who were not trained, participated in this evaluation. More than 50% of club leaders who undertook the training showed increased capacity to recognise mental illness and 66% reported increased confidence to respond to mental health difficulties in others. They reported that this training built upon their existing skills, fulfilled their perceived social responsibilities and empowered them. Indirect benefit to club players from this approach seemed limited as minimal changes in attitudes were reported by players. Key stakeholders regarded the project as valuable. Conclusions Rural football clubs appear to be appropriate social structures to promote rural mental health awareness. Club leaders, including many coaches, benefit from MHFA training, reporting increased skills and confidence. Benefit to club players from this approach was less obvious. However, the generally positive findings of this study suggest further research in this area is desirable. PMID:20482809

Fractionating choice: A study on reward discrimination, preference and relative valuation in the rat (Rattus norvegicus)

PubMed Central

Ricker, Joshua M.; Hatch, Justin D.; Powers, Daniel D.; Cromwell, Howard C.

2016-01-01

Choice behavior combines discrimination between distinctive outcomes, preference for specific outcomes and relative valuation of comparable outcomes. Previous work has focused on one component (i.e., preference) disregarding other influential processes that might provide a more complete understanding. Animal models of choice have been explored primarily utilizing extensive training, limited freedom for multiple decisions and sparse behavioral measures constrained to a single phase of motivated action. The present study used a paradigm that combines different elements of previous methods with the goal to distinguish among components of choice and explore how well components match predictions based on risk-sensitive foraging strategies. In order to analyze discrimination and relative valuation, it was necessary to have an option that shifted and an option that remained constant. Shifting outcomes among weeks included a change in single-option outcome (0 to 1 to 2 pellets) or a change in mixed-option outcome (0 or 5 to 0 or 3 to 0 or 1 pellets). Constant outcomes among weeks were also mixedoption (0 or 3 pellets) or single-option (1 pellet). Shifting single-option outcomes among weeks led to better discrimination, more robust preference and significant incentive contrast effects for the alternative outcome. Shifting multi-options altered choice components and led to dissociations among discrimination, preference, and reduced contrast effects. During extinction, all components were impacted with the greatest deficits during the shifting mixed-option outcome sessions. Results suggest choice behavior can be optimized for one component but suboptimal for others depending upon the complexity of alterations in outcome value between options. PMID:27078079

Item response analysis of the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale

PubMed Central

Santor, Darcy A; Ascher-Svanum, Haya; Lindenmayer, Jean-Pierre; Obenchain, Robert L

2007-01-01

Background Statistical models based on item response theory were used to examine (a) the performance of individual Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) items and their options, (b) the effectiveness of various subscales to discriminate among individual differences in symptom severity, and (c) the appropriateness of cutoff scores recently recommended by Andreasen and her colleagues (2005) to establish symptom remission. Methods Option characteristic curves were estimated using a nonparametric item response model to examine the probability of endorsing each of 7 options within each of 30 PANSS items as a function of standardized, overall symptom severity. Our data were baseline PANSS scores from 9205 patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder who were enrolled between 1995 and 2003 in either a large, naturalistic, observational study or else in 1 of 12 randomized, double-blind, clinical trials comparing olanzapine to other antipsychotic drugs. Results Our analyses show that the majority of items forming the Positive and Negative subscales of the PANSS perform very well. We also identified key areas for improvement or revision in items and options within the General Psychopathology subscale. The Positive and Negative subscale scores are not only more discriminating of individual differences in symptom severity than the General Psychopathology subscale score, but are also more efficient on average than the 30-item total score. Of the 8 items recently recommended to establish symptom remission, 1 performed markedly different from the 7 others and should either be deleted or rescored requiring that patients achieve a lower score of 2 (rather than 3) to signal remission. Conclusion This first item response analysis of the PANSS supports its sound psychometric properties; most PANSS items were either very good or good at assessing overall severity of illness. These analyses did identify some items which might be further improved for measuring individual severity differences or for defining remission thresholds. Findings also suggest that the Positive and Negative subscales are more sensitive to change than the PANSS total score and, thus, may constitute a "mini PANSS" that may be more reliable, require shorter administration and training time, and possibly reduce sample sizes needed for future research. PMID:18005449

Market segmentation for multiple option healthcare delivery systems--an application of cluster analysis.

PubMed

Jarboe, G R; Gates, R H; McDaniel, C D

1990-01-01

Healthcare providers of multiple option plans may be confronted with special market segmentation problems. This study demonstrates how cluster analysis may be used for discovering distinct patterns of preference for multiple option plans. The availability of metric, as opposed to categorical or ordinal, data provides the ability to use sophisticated analysis techniques which may be superior to frequency distributions and cross-tabulations in revealing preference patterns.

Preparing Special Educators for Teacher Consultation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Warger, Cynthia L., Ed.; Aldinger, Loviah E., Ed.

The publication defines the nature of special education consultation and presents various options through which training can be provided by college and university departments of special education. The first three papers present the realities of special education consultation as currently practiced: "Serving Special Children through Teacher…

Development of an open-source cloud-connected sensor-monitoring platform

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Rapid advances in electronics and communications technologies offer continuously evolving options for sensing and awareness of the physical environment. Many of these advances are becoming increasingly available to “non-professionals,” that is, those without formal training or expertise in discipli...

Financing Technical and Vocational Education: Modalities and Experiences.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

German Foundation for International Development (DSE), Bonn (Germany).

The two papers in this document explain various options and modalities for UNEVOC (International Project on Technical and Vocational Education) Member States' financing of their individual systems of technical and vocational education and disseminating experiences in this area. "Financing Vocational Education and Training in Developing…

Preparing Entry-Level Counselors for Collaboration

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Baker, Stanley B.; Grimmett, Marc A.; Cannon, Sharon McMillen; Ting, Siu-Man Raymond; Nassar-McMillan, Sylvia C.; Gerler, Edwin R.; Maxwell, Millie; Edwards-Joseph, Arline R. A. C.

2009-01-01

Over a period of 5 years, faculty members from the North Carolina State University's Counselor Education Program have integrated a curriculum enhancement to promote collaboration behaviors among program graduates across the master's degree options for training school, college, and community counselors. The School-College-Community Collaboration…

Cognitive Training in Parkinson's Disease.

PubMed

Walton, Courtney C; Naismith, Sharon L; Lampit, Amit; Mowszowski, Loren; Lewis, Simon J G

2017-03-01

Cognitive impairment is now widely accepted as a fundamental aspect of Parkinson's disease (PD). Given the prevalence of cognitive impairment and the associated impact on well-being, evidence-based interventions are needed. However, while research is continually accumulating in order to better understand the pathology and trajectory of cognitive changes, treatment options lag behind. Nonpharmacological approaches are of particular interest in this group, given the typical polypharmacy already present in PD patients. In this regard, cognitive training (CT) is a relatively new and prominent therapeutic option with accumulating scientific support and increasing public awareness. Research has now established benefits across many different populations, and trials investigating the use of CT specifically in PD are becoming more common. We offer a brief summary of CT and its efficacy in PD samples to date, as well as discuss areas requiring further exploration in this group. Crucially, we suggest that CT should be supported as a research priority in PD, given both proven and potential benefits as a noninvasive and well-tolerated behavioral intervention for cognitive impairment.

Does Mindfulness Training Enhance the Professional Development of Residents? A Qualitative Study.

PubMed

Verweij, Hanne; van Ravesteijn, Hiske; van Hooff, Madelon L M; Lagro-Janssen, Antoine L M; Speckens, Anne E M

2018-04-24

In addition to developing diagnostic and clinical skills, postgraduate medical education should stimulate residents' professional development. Teaching medical professionalism is challenging and is often left largely to the informal and hidden curricula. An intervention that might be beneficial for medical residents is Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). The authors implemented MBSR as an optional course for residents and qualitatively explored how it influenced residents professionally. Between 2014 and 2016, the authors conducted 19 in-depth, face-to-face interviews with residents who had participated in an MBSR course at Radboud university medical center, the Netherlands. Medical and surgical residents, across a range of disciplines, participated. The authors used the constant comparison method to analyze the data. The analysis of the data resulted in five themes: awareness of thoughts, emotions, bodily sensations, and behavior; increased self-reflection; acceptance and nonjudgment; increased resilience; and relating to others. Residents indicated that the MBSR training increased their awareness and self-reflection at work, and they were more accepting toward themselves and toward their limitations. Furthermore, they mentioned being more resilient and better at setting priorities and limits. They improved their self-care and work-life balance. In addition, residents indicated that the training made them more aware of how they communicated. They asked for help more often and seemed to be more open toward feedback. Lastly, they indicated an increased sense of compassion for others. This study indicated that mindfulness training can serve as a tool to cultivate important professional competencies for residents.

Stroke and neurodegenerative disorders. 3. Stroke: rehabilitation management.

PubMed

Bogey, Ross A; Geis, Carolyn C; Bryant, Phillip R; Moroz, Alex; O'neill, Bryan J

2004-03-01

This self-directed learning module highlights common rehabilitation issues in stroke survivors. Topics include spasticity, constraint-induced movement therapy, partial body weight-supported treadmill training, virtual reality training, vestibular retraining, aphasia treatment, and cognitive retraining. It is part of the study chapter on stroke and neurodegenerative disorders in the Self-Directed Physiatric Education Program for practitioners and trainees in physical medicine and rehabilitation. (a) To identify and review the treatment options for poststroke spasticity; (b) to review the use of body weight-supported treadmill training in stroke patients; (c) to describe virtual reality training as an adjunct in stroke rehabilitation; (d) to review vestibular rehabilitation; (e) to discuss advances in aphasia treatment; (f) to discuss cognitive retraining; and (g) to provide an update on treatment of neglect syndromes.

Pregnancy Options Counseling and Abortion Referrals Among US Primary Care Physicians: Results From a National Survey.

PubMed

Holt, Kelsey; Janiak, Elizabeth; McCormick, Marie C; Lieberman, Ellice; Dehlendorf, Christine; Kajeepeta, Sandhya; Caglia, Jacquelyn M; Langer, Ana

2017-07-01

Primary care physicians (PCPs) can play a critical role in addressing unintended pregnancy through high-quality options counseling and referrals. We surveyed a nationally representative sample of 3,000 PCPs in general, family, and internal medicine on practices and opinions related to options counseling for unintended pregnancy. We assessed predictors of physician practices using multivariable logistic regression weighted for sampling design and differential non-response. Response rate was 29%. Seventy-one percent believed residency training in options counseling should be required, and 69% believed PCPs have an obligation to provide abortion referrals even in the presence of a personal objection to abortion. However, only 26% reported routine options counseling when caring for women with unintended pregnancy compared to 60% who routinely discuss prenatal care. Among physicians who see women seeking abortion, 62% routinely provide referrals, while 14% routinely attempt to dissuade women. Family physicians were more likely to provide routine options counseling when seeing patients with unintended pregnancy than internal medicine physicians (32% vs 21%, P=0.002). In multivariable analyses, factors associated with higher odds of routine abortion referrals were more years in practice (OR=1.03 for each additional year, 95% CI: 1.00-1.05), identifying as a woman vs a man (OR=2.11, 95% CI: 1.31-3.40), practicing in a hospital vs private primary care/multispecialty setting (OR=3.17, 95% CI: 1.10-9.15), and no religious affiliation of practice vs religious affiliation (OR for Catholic affiliation=0.27, 95% CI: 0.11-0.66; OR for other religious affiliation=0.36, 95% CI: 0.15-0.83). Personal Christian religious affiliation among physicians who regularly attend religious services vs no religious affiliation was associated with lower odds of counseling (OR=0.48, 95% CI: 0.26-0.90) and referrals (OR=0.31, 95% CI: 0.15-0.62), and higher odds of abortion dissuasion (OR=4.03, 95% CI: 1.46-11.14). Findings reveal the need to support fuller integration of options counseling and abortion referrals in primary care, particularly through institutional and professional society guidelines and training opportunities to impart skills and highlight the professional obligation to provide non-directive information and support to women with unintended pregnancy.

Expanding contraceptive options for PMTCT clients: a mixed methods implementation study in Cape Town, South Africa

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Clients of prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) services in South Africa who use contraception following childbirth rely primarily on short-acting methods like condoms, pills, and injectables, even when they desire no future pregnancies. Evidence is needed on strategies for expanding contraceptive options for postpartum PMTCT clients to include long-acting and permanent methods. Methods We examined the process of expanding contraceptive options in five health centers in Cape Town providing services to HIV-positive women. Maternal/child health service providers received training and coaching to strengthen contraceptive counseling for postpartum women, including PMTCT clients. Training and supplies were introduced to strengthen intrauterine device (IUD) services, and referral mechanisms for female sterilization were reinforced. We conducted interviews with separate samples of postpartum PMTCT clients (265 pre-intervention and 266 post-intervention) to assess knowledge and behaviors regarding postpartum contraception. The process of implementing the intervention was evaluated through systematic documentation and interpretation using an intervention tracking tool. In-depth interviews with providers who participated in study-sponsored training were conducted to assess their attitudes toward and experiences with promoting voluntary contraceptive services to HIV-positive clients. Results Following the intervention, 6% of interviewed PMTCT clients had the desired knowledge about the IUD and 23% had the desired knowledge about female sterilization. At both pre- and post-intervention, 7% of clients were sterilized and IUD use was negligible; by comparison, 75% of clients used injectables. Intervention tracking and in-depth interviews with providers revealed intervention shortcomings and health system constraints explaining the failure to produce intended effects. Conclusions The intervention failed to improve PMTCT clients’ knowledge about the IUD and sterilization or to increase use of those methods. To address the family planning needs of postpartum PMTCT clients in a way that is consistent with their fertility desires, services must expand the range of contraceptive options to include long-acting and permanent methods. In turn, to ensure consistent access to high quality family planning services that are effectively linked to HIV services, attention must also be focused on resolving underlying health system constraints weakening health service delivery more generally. PMID:24410922

Is different better?: models of teaching and their influence on the net financial outcome for general practice teaching posts.

PubMed

Laurence, Caroline O; Black, Linda E; Cheah, Carolyn; Karnon, Jonathan

2011-07-12

In Australia, training for general practice (GP) occurs within private practices and their involvement in teaching can have significant financial costs. At the same time there are growing demands for clinical places for all disciplines and for GP there is concern that there are insufficient teaching practices to meet the demand at the medical student, prevocational and vocational training levels. One option to address this may be to change how teaching occurs in the practice. A question that arises in posing such an option is whether different models of teaching change the costs for a teaching practice. The aim of this study is to determine the net financial outcome of teaching models in private GP. Modelling the financial implications for a range of teaching options using a costing framework developed from a survey of teaching practices in South Australia. Each option was compared with the traditional model of teaching where one GP supervisor is singularly responsible for one learner. The main outcome measure was net financial outcome per week. Decisions on the model cost parameters were made by the study's Steering Group which comprised of experienced GP supervisors. Four teaching models are presented. Model 1 investigates the gains from teaching multiple same level learners, Models 2 and 3, the benefits of vertically integrated teaching using different permutations, and Model 4 the concept of a GP teacher who undertakes all the teaching. There was a significant increase in net benefits of Aus$547 per week (95% confidence intervals $459, $668) to the practice when a GP taught two same level learners (Model 1) and when a senior registrar participated in teaching a prevocational doctor (Model 3, Aus$263, 95% confidence intervals $80, $570). For Model 2, a practice could significantly reduce the loss if a registrar was involved in vertically integrated teaching which included the training of a medical student (Aus$551, 95% confidence intervals $419, $718). The GP teacher model resulted in a net remuneration of Aus$207,335 per year, sourced predominantly from the GP teacher activities, with no loss to the practice. Our study costed teaching options that can maximise the financial outcomes from teaching. The inclusion of GP registrars in the teaching model or the supervisor teaching more than one same level learner results in a greater financial benefit. This gain was achieved through a reduction in supervisor teaching time and the sharing of administrative and teaching activities with GP registrars. We also show that a GP teacher who carries a minimal patient load can be a sustainable option for a practice. Further, the costing framework used for the teaching models presented in this study has the ability to be applied to any number of teaching model permutations.

Annual planning meetings: views and perceptions.

PubMed

Bindal, Taruna; Wall, David; Goodyear, Helen

2014-12-01

In 2009, annual face to face planning meetings (APMs) were introduced as an optional meeting for all paediatric trainees. APMs are a formative assessment process whereby the trainee meets with a panel of consultants and sets the agenda for discussion. A questionnaire about APMs was given to all participating trainees and trainers in 2011. The response rate was 93 per cent (139/150) and 67 per cent (12/18) for trainees and trainers, respectively. All trainers had received panel member training. Ninety-one per cent of trainees (126/139) felt adequately prepared for the meeting. Issues discussed included career plans (93%), future training placements (73%), ePortfolio (61%) and previous training posts (61%). Trainees felt that the APM was a helpful formative assessment process (with a mean score of five on a six-point Likert scale: 1, strongly disagree; 6, strongly agree), and that panels were fair, supportive, communicated clearly, listened to concerns and focused on individual learning needs. Sixty-seven per cent (8/12) of trainers would have liked more information about the process beforehand. The main benefits of APMs were trainees feeling supported in their training and better informed regarding career options. APMs would be of value to all specialties to enable annual formative assessment to be undertaken at a different time to the summative assessment process. APMs facilitate reflection on learning needs, and the formulation of personal development plans and career goals for trainees. Trainees felt that the APM was a helpful formative assessment process. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Telehealth Innovations in Health Education and Training

PubMed Central

De, Suvranu; Hall, Richard W.; Johansen, Edward; Meglan, Dwight; Peng, Grace C.Y.

2010-01-01

Abstract Telehealth applications are increasingly important in many areas of health education and training. In addition, they will play a vital role in biomedical research and research training by facilitating remote collaborations and providing access to expensive/remote instrumentation. In order to fulfill their true potential to leverage education, training, and research activities, innovations in telehealth applications should be fostered across a range of technology fronts, including online, on-demand computational models for simulation; simplified interfaces for software and hardware; software frameworks for simulations; portable telepresence systems; artificial intelligence applications to be applied when simulated human patients are not options; and the development of more simulator applications. This article presents the results of discussion on potential areas of future development, barries to overcome, and suggestions to translate the promise of telehealth applications into a transformed environment of training, education, and research in the health sciences. PMID:20155874

What can Citizen Science do for Ocean Science and Ocean Scientists?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Best, M.; Hoeberechts, M.; Mangin, A.; Oggioni, A.; Orcutt, J. A.; Parrish, J.; Pearlman, J.; Piera, J.; Tagliolato, P.

2016-12-01

The ocean represents over 70% of our planet's surface area, over 90% of the living space. Humans are not marine creatures, we therefore have fundamentally not built up knowledge of the ocean in the same way we have on land. The more we learn about the ocean, the more we understand it is the regulatory engine of our planet…How do we catch up? Answers to this question will need to come from many quarters; A powerful and strategic option to complement existing observation programs and infrastructure is Citizen Science. There has been significant and relevant discussion of the importance of Citizen Science to citizens and stakeholders. The missing effective question is sometimes what is the potential of citizen science for scientists? The answers for both scientists and society are: spatial coverage, remote locations, temporal coverage, event response, early detection of harmful processes, sufficient data volume for statistical analysis and identification of outliers, integrating local knowledge, data access in exchange for analysis (e.g. with industry) and cost-effective monitoring systems. Citizens can be involved in: instrument manufacture and maintenance, instrument deployment/sample collection, data collection and transmission, data analysis, data validation/verification, and proposals of new topics of research. Such opportunities are balanced by concern on the part of scientists about the quality, the consistency and the reliability of citizen observations and analyses. Experience working with citizen science groups continues to suggest that with proper training and mentoring, these issues can be addressed, understanding both benefits and limitations. How to do it- implementation and maintenance of citizen science: How to recruit, engage, train, and maintain Citizen Scientists. Data systems for acquisition, assessment, access, analysis, and visualisation of distributed data sources. Tools/methods for acquiring observations: Simple instruments, Smartphone Apps, DIY-Instruments Community Online Platforms: websites, social networks, discussion forums. Crowdsourcing Tools: image acquisition, web and smartphone applications, surveys/questionnaires. Information, Engagement, and Training Resources: webinars, public lectures, websites, public/museum displays.

Enablers of and barriers to abortion training.

PubMed

Guiahi, Maryam; Lim, Sahnah; Westover, Corey; Gold, Marji; Westhoff, Carolyn L

2013-06-01

Since the legalization of abortion services in the United States, provision of abortions has remained a controversial issue of high political interest. Routine abortion training is not offered at all obstetrics and gynecology (Ob-Gyn) training programs, despite a specific training requirement by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education. Previous studies that described Ob-Gyn programs with routine abortion training either examined associations by using national surveys of program directors or described the experience of a single program. We set out to identify enablers of and barriers to Ob-Gyn abortion training in the context of a New York City political initiative, in order to better understand how to improve abortion training at other sites. We conducted in-depth qualitative interviews with 22 stakeholders from 7 New York City public hospitals and focus group interviews with 62 current residents at 6 sites. Enablers of abortion training included program location, high-capacity services, faculty commitment to abortion training, external programmatic support, and resident interest. Barriers to abortion training included lack of leadership continuity, leadership conflict, lack of second-trimester abortion services, difficulty obtaining mifepristone, optional rather than routine training, and antiabortion values of hospital personnel. Supportive leadership, faculty commitment, and external programmatic support appear to be key elements for establishing routine abortion training at Ob-Gyn residency training programs.

Sentiment Analysis of Health Care Tweets: Review of the Methods Used.

PubMed

Gohil, Sunir; Vuik, Sabine; Darzi, Ara

2018-04-23

Twitter is a microblogging service where users can send and read short 140-character messages called "tweets." There are several unstructured, free-text tweets relating to health care being shared on Twitter, which is becoming a popular area for health care research. Sentiment is a metric commonly used to investigate the positive or negative opinion within these messages. Exploring the methods used for sentiment analysis in Twitter health care research may allow us to better understand the options available for future research in this growing field. The first objective of this study was to understand which tools would be available for sentiment analysis of Twitter health care research, by reviewing existing studies in this area and the methods they used. The second objective was to determine which method would work best in the health care settings, by analyzing how the methods were used to answer specific health care questions, their production, and how their accuracy was analyzed. A review of the literature was conducted pertaining to Twitter and health care research, which used a quantitative method of sentiment analysis for the free-text messages (tweets). The study compared the types of tools used in each case and examined methods for tool production, tool training, and analysis of accuracy. A total of 12 papers studying the quantitative measurement of sentiment in the health care setting were found. More than half of these studies produced tools specifically for their research, 4 used open source tools available freely, and 2 used commercially available software. Moreover, 4 out of the 12 tools were trained using a smaller sample of the study's final data. The sentiment method was trained against, on an average, 0.45% (2816/627,024) of the total sample data. One of the 12 papers commented on the analysis of accuracy of the tool used. Multiple methods are used for sentiment analysis of tweets in the health care setting. These range from self-produced basic categorizations to more complex and expensive commercial software. The open source and commercial methods are developed on product reviews and generic social media messages. None of these methods have been extensively tested against a corpus of health care messages to check their accuracy. This study suggests that there is a need for an accurate and tested tool for sentiment analysis of tweets trained using a health care setting-specific corpus of manually annotated tweets first. ©Sunir Gohil, Sabine Vuik, Ara Darzi. Originally published in JMIR Public Health and Surveillance (http://publichealth.jmir.org), 23.04.2018.

[The effect of a short-term group stabilisation training in patients with complex posttraumatic stress disorder].

PubMed

Beldman, G; Kessels, H H L M; de Groot, I W

The international guideline for complex posttraumatic stress disorder (ptsd) from the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (istss) recommends treatment in phases, starting with stabilisation treatment. Different forms of stabilisation training have been developed the past few years, one being short-term group stabilisation training.
AIM: To map out the effects of the short-term group training.
METHOD: The research implemented a pre-post design. The training consisted of five group sessions. Questionnaires (bsi, OQ 45 and svl-15) were completed both prior to and after the training. Four domains were assessed: psychosymptomatology in general, depressive symptoms, problems with interpersonal functioning and ptsd-related symptoms. The effect of the training was calculated by paired t-tests.
RESULTS: The questionnaires of the 47 participants who had completed the training were analysed. No significant decrease was observed during the stabilisation training concerning the symptoms of the four evaluated domains.
CONCLUSION: Contrary our expectations, a short-term group-based stabilisation training does not seem to have added value when treating patients with complex ptsd. The results correspond with a recent trend in which the effectiveness of other stabilising methods is questioned. Alternative treatment options are discussed.

Analysis of Commercially Available Firefighting Helmet and Boot Options for the Joint Firefighter Integrated Response Ensemble (JFIRE)

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-02-01

AFRL-RX-TY-TR-2012-0022 ANALYSIS OF COMMERCIALLY AVAILABLE HELMET AND BOOT OPTIONS FOR THE JOINT FIREFIGHTER INTEGRATED RESPONSE ENSEMBLE...Interim Technical Report 01-SEP-2010 -- 31-JAN-2011 Analysis of Commercially Available Firefighting Helmet and Boot Options for the Joint Firefighter...ensemble. A requirements correlation matrix was generated and sent to industry detailing objective and threshold measurements for both the helmet

A multi-criteria decision analysis assessment of waste paper management options.

PubMed

Hanan, Deirdre; Burnley, Stephen; Cooke, David

2013-03-01

The use of Multi-criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) was investigated in an exercise using a panel of local residents and stakeholders to assess the options for managing waste paper on the Isle of Wight. Seven recycling, recovery and disposal options were considered by the panel who evaluated each option against seven environmental, financial and social criteria. The panel preferred options where the waste was managed on the island with gasification and recycling achieving the highest scores. Exporting the waste to the English mainland for incineration or landfill proved to be the least preferred options. This research has demonstrated that MCDA is an effective way of involving community groups in waste management decision making. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Options for liferaft entry after helicopter ditching.

PubMed

Brooks, C J; Potter, P L; De Lange, D; Baranski, J V; Anderson, J

1998-08-01

Dry and wet evacuations were conducted by 24 male and 19 female subjects from the Nutec Super Puma Simulator into two different types of aviation liferaft. Dry evacuation on the windward side is the method of choice. The non-canopy raft is subjectively and objectively easier to enter both from the helicopter and the sea. The non-canopy raft is the raft of choice, the canopy raft needs a redesign to ensure that it always inflates the correct way and both rafts need a redesign of the painter anchor point. Aircrew should have special training in open water after traditional pool training. A helicopter ditching survival compass has been developed for training all who fly over water for a living.

A pilot training manual for the terminal configured vehicle electronic horizontal situation indicator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Houck, J. A.

1981-01-01

The initial phase of a training program for the Terminal Configured Vehicle Electronic Situation indicator (EHSI) is presented. The EHSI and its symbology is introduced and interpretation of the symbols is explained. Basic symbols shown on the display at all times are first presented. Additional optional symbols to be used as appropriate during different portions of a flight are then introduced and various display configurations interpreted. The upper half of each page is a reproduction of the EHSI display or other pertinent instructional material and the bottom half contains explanatory text, simplifying production of an audiovisual package for use with large training classes. Two quizzes on the course material are included.

Pre-clinical Training for New Notes Procedures: From Ex-vivo Models to Virtual Reality Simulators.

PubMed

Gromski, Mark A; Ahn, Woojin; Matthes, Kai; De, Suvranu

2016-04-01

Natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) is a newer field of endoscopic surgery that allows for scarless treatment of pathologic entities, using novel transluminal approaches. There has been a shift of focus from a clinical and research standpoint from the development and dissemination of "first-generation" NOTES procedures to "new NOTES" procedures that traverse the mucosa of luminal structures, yet do not stray far into the peritoneal cavity. It has been a challenge to find appropriate and effective ways to train gastroenterologists and surgeons in these novel approaches. We review the importance of simulation in training and discuss available simulation options. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Tribal Benefits Counseling Program: Expanding Health Care Opportunities for Tribal Members

PubMed Central

Friedsam, Donna; Haug, Gretchen; Rust, Mike; Lake, Amy

2003-01-01

American Indian tribal clinics hired benefits counselors to increase the number of patients with public and private insurance coverage, expand the range of health care options available to tribal members, and increase third-party revenues for tribal clinics. Benefits counselors received intensive training, technical assistance, and evaluation over a 2-year period. Six tribal clinics participated in the full training program, including follow-up, process evaluation, and outcomes reporting. Participating tribal sites experienced a 78% increase in Medicaid enrollment among pregnant women and children, compared with a 26% enrollment increase statewide during the same period. Trained benefits counselors on-site at tribal clinics can substantially increase third-party insurance coverage among patients. PMID:14534213

Neural network modelling of planform geometry of headland-bay beaches

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iglesias, G.; López, I.; Castro, A.; Carballo, R.

2009-02-01

The shoreline of beaches in the lee of coastal salients or man-made structures, usually known as headland-bay beaches, has a distinctive curvature; wave fronts curve as a result of wave diffraction at the headland and in turn cause the shoreline to bend. The ensuing curved planform is of great interest both as a peculiar landform and in the context of engineering projects in which it is necessary to predict how a coastal structure will affect the sandy shoreline in its lee. A number of empirical models have been put forward, each based on a specific equation. A novel approach, based on the application of artificial neural networks, is presented in this work. Unlike the conventional method, no particular equation of the planform is embedded in the model. Instead, it is the model itself that learns about the problem from a series of examples of headland-bay beaches (the training set) and thereafter applies this self-acquired knowledge to other cases (the test set) for validation. Twenty-three headland-bay beaches from around the world were selected, of which sixteen and seven make up the training and test sets, respectively. As there is no well-developed theory for deciding upon the most convenient neural network architecture to deal with a particular data set, an experimental study was conducted in which ten different architectures with one and two hidden neuron layers and five training algorithms - 50 different options combining network architecture and training algorithm - were compared. Each of these options was implemented, trained and tested in order to find the best-performing approach for modelling the planform of headland-bay beaches. Finally, the selected neural network model was compared with a state-of-the-art planform model and was shown to outperform it.

A novel phased-concept course for the delivery of anatomy and orthopedics training in medical education.

PubMed

Klima, Stefan; Hepp, Pierre; Löffler, Sabine; Cornwall, Jon; Hammer, Niels

2017-07-01

Integration of anatomy and clinical teaching is a theoretical ideal, yet there is a worldwide paucity of such amalgamation. These teaching models provide support for medical trainees, an important element in Germany where orthopedic intern numbers have declined and anecdotal evidence suggests disinterest in orthopedics. The aim of the study was to develop an integrated anatomy-surgical course for undergraduate medical training, assess the model developed, and explore how medical students perceive orthopedics as a career. The course was to deliver medical anatomy and clinical orthopedic training, focusing on interdisciplinary teaching and learning, vertical integration of clinical knowledge and skills, and professional interaction. Survey evaluation of the course and students' perceptions of orthopedic careers was performed, including Likert-type responses rating variables of interest. A phased-concept program of five courses, each optional and under one-week in duration, was developed parallel to the undergraduate medical program. Delivered by anatomists and surgeons, courses included biomechanics, advanced dissection, surgical approaches, casts and implants, and sports medicine. Course data indicate positive support for course format, stimulation of interest, and high clinical relevance. Students are generally interested in surgery, and identify hierarchy, lawsuits, bureaucracy and physical stress as barriers to orthopedic careers. This novel phased-concept successfully delivers combined anatomy and surgery training in a vertically-integrated format while addressing students' clinical and professional skills. The format facilitates an appreciation of potential career options in orthopedics, while fostering professional skills during medical training. Barriers to careers in orthopedics can now be addressed in future courses. Anat Sci Educ 10: 372-382. © 2016 American Association of Anatomists. © 2016 American Association of Anatomists.

Participant satisfaction in a study of stimulant, parent training, and risperidone in children with severe physical aggression.

PubMed

Rundberg-Rivera, E Victoria; Townsend, Lisa D; Schneider, Jayne; Farmer, Cristan A; Molina, Brooke B S G; Findling, Robert L; Gadow, Kenneth D; Bukstein, Oscar G; Arnold, L Eugene; Kolko, David J; Buchan-Page, Kristin A; McNamara, Nora K; Michel, Chenel; Austin, Adrienne; Kipp, Heidi; Rice, Robert R; Aman, Michael G

2015-04-01

The purpose of this study was to examine the satisfaction of families who participated in the Treatment of Severe Childhood Aggression (TOSCA) study. TOSCA was a randomized clinical trial of psychostimulant plus parent training plus placebo (basic treatment) versus psychostimulant plus parent training plus risperidone (augmented treatment) for children with severe physical aggression, disruptive behavior disorder, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Parents completed a standardized Parent Satisfaction Questionnaire (PSQ). Of the 168 families randomized, 150 (89.3%) provided consumer satisfaction data. When they were asked if they would join the study again if they had the option to repeat, 136 (91%) said "yes," 11 (7%) said "maybe," and one (<1%) said "no." When asked if they would recommend the study to other parents with children having similar problems, 147 (98%) said "yes" and 3 (2%) said "maybe." Between 71% (rating one aspect of the Parent Training) and 96% (regarding the diagnostic interview) endorsed study procedures using the most positive response option. Asked if there were certain aspects of the study that they especially liked, 64 (43%) spontaneously reported parent training. Treatment assignment (basic vs. augmented) and responder status were not associated with reported satisfaction. However, responder status was strongly associated with parent confidence in managing present (p<0.001) and future (p<0.005) problem behaviors. These findings indicate high levels of satisfaction with TOSCA study involvement and, taken together with previous pediatric psychopharmacology social validity studies, suggest high levels of support for the research experience. These findings may inform research bioethics and may have implications for deliberations of institutional review boards. Treatment of Severe Childhood Aggression (The TOSCA Study), NCT00796302, clinicaltrials.gov .

Child Neurology Recruitment and Training: Views of Residents and Child Neurologists From the 2015 AAP/CNS Workforce Survey.

PubMed

Gilbert, Donald L; Horn, Paul S; Kang, Peter B; Mintz, Mark; Joshi, Sucheta M; Ruch-Ross, Holly; Bale, James F

2017-01-01

To assess and compare resident and practicing child neurologists' attitudes regarding recruitment and residency training in child neurology. A joint task force of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Child Neurology Society conducted an electronic survey of child neurology residents (n = 305), practicing child neurologists (n = 1290), and neurodevelopmental disabilities specialists (n = 30) in 2015. Descriptive and multivariate analyses were performed. Response rates were 32% for residents (n = 97; 36% male; 65% Caucasian) and 40% for practitioners (n = 523; 63% male; 80% Caucasian; 30% lifetime certification). Regarding recruitment, 70% (n = 372) attributed difficulties recruiting medical students to insufficient early exposure. Although 68% (n = 364) reported that their medical school required a neurology clerkship, just 28% (n = 152) reported a child neurology component. Regarding residency curriculum, respondents supported increased training emphasis for genetics, neurodevelopmental disabilities, and multiple other subspecialty areas. Major changes in board certification requirements were supported, with 73% (n = 363) favoring reduced adult neurology training (strongest predictors: fewer years since medical school P = 0.003; and among practicing child neurologists, working more half-day clinics per week P = 0.005). Furthermore, 58% (n = 289) favored an option to reduce total training to 4 years, with 1 year of general pediatrics. Eighty-two percent (n = 448) would definitely or probably choose child neurology again. These findings provide support for recruitment efforts emphasizing early exposure of medical students to child neurology. Increased subspecialty exposure and an option for major changes in board certification requirements are favored by a significant number of respondents. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Surgery or Rehabilitation: A Randomized Clinical Trial Comparing the Treatment of Vocal Fold Polyps via Phonosurgery and Traditional Voice Therapy with "Voice Therapy Expulsion" Training.

PubMed

Barillari, Maria Rosaria; Volpe, Umberto; Mirra, Giuseppina; Giugliano, Francesco; Barillari, Umberto

2017-05-01

Phonomicrosurgery is generally considered to be the treatment of choice for removing vocal fold polyps. However, specific techniques of voice therapy may represent, in selected cases and under certain conditions, a noninvasive therapeutic option for the treatment of such laryngeal lesions. The aim of the present study is to longitudinally assess, in terms of clinical outcomes and quality of life, two groups of patients with cordal polyps, treated either with standard surgery plus standard voice therapy or with a specific training of voice therapy alone, which we have called "Voice Therapy Expulsion." This study is a randomized controlled trial. A total of 150 patients with vocal fold polyps were randomly assigned to either standard surgery or "voice therapy expulsion" protocol. The trial was carried out at the Division of Phoniatrics and Audiology of the Second University of Naples and at the Division of Communication Disorders of Local Health Unit (3 Naples South) from January 2010 to December 2013. A thorough phoniatric evaluation, including laryngostroboscopy, acoustic voice analysis, global grade of dysphonia, instability, roughness, breathiness, asthenia, and strain scale, Voice Handicap Index, and Voice-Related Quality of Life, was performed by using standardized tools, at baseline, at the end of the treatment, and up to 1 year after treatment. We found no significant differences between the two experimental groups in terms of clinical outcomes and personal satisfaction. However, "Voice Therapy Expulsion" was associated with higher scores for quality of life at endpoint evaluation. Besides phonosurgery, this specific "Voice Therapy Expulsion" technique should be considered as a valid, noninvasive, and well-tolerated therapeutic option for the treatment of selected patients with vocal fold polyps. Copyright © 2017 The Voice Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A Qualitative Study of Prescription Contraception Use: The Perspectives of Users, General Practitioners and Pharmacists.

PubMed

Sweeney, Leigh-Ann; Molloy, Gerard J; Byrne, Molly; Murphy, Andrew W; Morgan, Karen; Hughes, Carmel M; Ingham, Roger

2015-01-01

The oral contraceptive pill (OCP) remains the most popular form of prescription contraception in many countries, despite adherence difficulties for many. Uptake of long acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs), which are less reliant on user adherence, remains low. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of, and attitudes towards, prescription contraception amongst samples of contraception users, general practitioners (GPs) and pharmacists. We conducted a qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with 18 contraception users, 18 GPs and 9 pharmacists. The study took place in Galway, Republic of Ireland between June and September 2014. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. Overall, contraception users were more familiar with the OCP, and all the women interviewed began their prescription contraception journey using this method. All participants identified episodes of poor adherence throughout the reproductive life course. The identified barriers for use of LARCs were lack of information, misconceptions, lack of access and high cost. In contrast, GPs believed that adherence to the OCP was good and stated they were more likely to prescribe the OCP than other methods, as they were most familiar with this option. Barriers to prescribing LARCSs were time, cost to practice, training and deskilling. Pharmacists also believed that adherence to the OCP was generally good and that their role was limited to dispensing medication and providing information when asked. There are contrasting perspectives between contraception service providers and contraceptive users. Training for healthcare providers is required to support informed contraceptive choice and adherence. It is necessary to address the practice barriers of cost and lack of time, to promote better communication around adherence issues and prescription contraception options. There is a need for more easily-accessible public health information to promote awareness on all methods of prescription contraception.

Biofeedback therapy in fecal incontinence and constipation.

PubMed

Enck, P; Van der Voort, I R; Klosterhalfen, S

2009-11-01

We examine the collected evidence for efficacy of biofeedback therapy (BFT) in incontinence and constipation by means of meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. PubMed search was performed to identify treatment trials that match quality criteria (adequate control groups, randomization). They were entered into meta-analyses using fixed effect models and computing odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of treatment effects. For constipation, eight BFT trials were identified. In four trials, electromyographic (EMG) BFT was compared to non-BFT treatments (laxatives, placebo, sham training and botox injection), while in the remaining four studies EMG BFT was compared to other BFT (balloon pressure, verbal feedback) modes. Meta-analyses revealed superiority of BFT to non-BFT (OR: 3.657; 95% CI: 2.127-6.290, P < 0.001) but equal efficacy of EMG BFT to other BF applications (OR: 1.436; CI: 0.692-3.089; P = 0.319). For fecal incontinence, a total of 11 trials were identified, of which six compared BFT to other treatment options (sensory training, pelvic floor exercise and electrical stimulation) and five compared one BFT option to other modalities of BFT. BFT was equal effective than non-BFT therapy (OR: 1.189, CI: 0.689-2.051, P = 0.535). No difference was found when various modes BFT were compared (OR: 1.278, CI: 0.736-2.220, P = 0.384). Included trials showed a substantial lack of quality and harmonization, e.g. variable endpoints and missing psychological assessment across studies. BFT for pelvic floor dyssynergia shows substantial specific therapeutic effect while BFT for incontinence is still lacking evidence for efficacy. However, in both conditions the mode of BFT seems to play a minor role.

78 FR 15016 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-03-08

... permitted to use paid feeding assistants to supplement the services of certified nurse aides. If facilities choose this option, feeding assistants must complete a training program. Nursing home providers are... collection; Title of Information Collection: Paid Feeding Assistants in Long-Term Care Facilities and...

Options after High School for Youth with Disabilities.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Transition Summary, 1991

1991-01-01

This issue presents nine articles which address identifying, pursuing, and obtaining postsecondary training and employment by youth with disabilities. It discusses how families and professionals can help young people develop important self-determination and self-advocacy skills. It also introduces adult service systems to aid in obtaining…

Prostate Cancer Research Training Program

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-05-14

David M. Lubaroff, PhD, Principal Investigator, Paul Heidger, PhD, University of Iowa Faculty Advisor, Derek Swinton, PhD, Lincoln University...discussed the options for each of them based upon their experience and their desire for the type o f future they envisioned for themselves. Am ong the top

Entrepreneurship in the Eighties. Monograph. Volume 3, Number 2.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Oldham, Lea Leever

Vocational schools are an excellent breeding ground for entrepreneurs. In addition to such programs as the Free Enterprise Project at the Auburn Career Center (Lake County, Ohio), some vocational schools, including Auburn, offer optional, short-term entrepreneurial programs. Entrepreneurship training in secondary educational institutions is…

20 CFR 601.2 - Approval of State unemployment compensation laws.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 3 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Approval of State unemployment compensation... unemployment compensation laws. States may at their option submit their unemployment compensation laws for... Employment and Training Administration (ETA), one copy of the State unemployment compensation law properly...

20 CFR 601.2 - Approval of State unemployment compensation laws.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 3 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Approval of State unemployment compensation... unemployment compensation laws. States may at their option submit their unemployment compensation laws for... Employment and Training Administration (ETA), one copy of the State unemployment compensation law properly...

20 CFR 601.2 - Approval of State unemployment compensation laws.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 3 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Approval of State unemployment compensation... unemployment compensation laws. States may at their option submit their unemployment compensation laws for... Employment and Training Administration (ETA), one copy of the State unemployment compensation law properly...

20 CFR 601.2 - Approval of State unemployment compensation laws.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 3 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Approval of State unemployment compensation... unemployment compensation laws. States may at their option submit their unemployment compensation laws for... Employment and Training Administration (ETA), one copy of the State unemployment compensation law properly...

20 CFR 601.2 - Approval of State unemployment compensation laws.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 3 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Approval of State unemployment compensation... unemployment compensation laws. States may at their option submit their unemployment compensation laws for... Employment and Training Administration (ETA), one copy of the State unemployment compensation law properly...

Laptop Lessons: Exploring the Promise of One-to-One Computing.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carter, Kim

2001-01-01

Describes benefits of programs where schools provide laptop computers for each student. Topics include results of studies that show positive learning outcomes; funding options; implementation; protecting the equipment; resources for learning about laptop programs; staff training and support; and future possibilities, including the implications of…

Is Participatory Action Research an innovative pedagogical alternative for training teachers as researchers? The training plan and evaluation for normal schools.

PubMed

Paredes-Chi, Arely Anahy; Castillo-Burguete, María Teresa

2018-06-01

Normal schools in Mexico train teachers for basic level education. Classified as Higher Education Institutions, part of their mandate is to conduct scientific research to improve educational quality. Currently, normal school students can meet graduation requirements by either writing a thesis or reporting on professional practice using Participatory Action Research (PAR). Teachers at normal schools have only limited experience in conducting and supervising PAR projects. With the aim of analyzing the situation and addressing this paradox, we used PAR to develop a plan to train normal school teachers in application of PAR methodology. We present the training proposal and evaluate its results in a pilot phase. These suggest that PAR represents an innovative option for training teachers to conduct research and therefore fulfill part of their responsibilities at normal schools in Mexico. Changes in institutional culture and structure would be required for successful implementation of PAR in this context. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Hysteroscopic simulator for training and educational purposes.

PubMed

Lim, Fabian; Brown, Ian; McColl, Ryan; Seligman, Cory; Alsaraira, Amer

2006-01-01

Hysteroscopy is an extensively popular option in evaluating and treating women with infertility. The procedure utilizes an endoscope, inserted through the vagina and cervix to examine the intra-uterine cavity via a monitor. The difficulty of hysteroscopy from the surgeon's perspective is the visual spatial perception of interpreting 3D images on a 2D monitor, and the associated psychomotor skills in overcoming the fulcrum-effect. Despite the widespread use of this procedure, current qualified hysteroscopy surgeons have not been trained the fundamentals through an organized curriculum. The emergence of virtual reality as an educational tool for this procedure, and for other endoscopic procedures, has undoubtedly raised interests. The ultimate objective is for the inclusion of virtual reality training as a mandatory component for gynecological endoscopic training. Part of this process involves the design of a simulator, encompassing the technical difficulties and complications associated with the procedure. The proposed research examines fundamental hysteroscopic factors as well as current training and accreditation norms, and proposes a hysteroscopic simulator design that is suitable for educating and training.

Clinical biochemistry education, training and continuing professional development in the United Kingdom.

PubMed

Beastall, Graham H

2008-07-01

Education and training to become a senior professional in UK clinical biochemistry is coordinated at national level and is largely dependent upon completion of the MRCPath examination. The number of training commissions is regulated to accord with workforce planning requirements. Both medical and science graduates are eligible to undertake this training and the core curriculum is similar for both groups. Medical trainees have the option of including additional clinical training in metabolic medicine. Increasingly, with the introduction of new methods of assessment, the MRCPath examination is becoming a measure of competence rather than knowledge. Structured CPD is mandatory for career grade doctors and scientists as part of the requirements for them to maintain their individual licence to practice and in order that the laboratory in which they work may be accredited. The education, training and assessment of trainees in clinical biochemistry enable the production of a flexible workforce that is competent and designed to be fit for purpose. The requirement for structured CPD is one part of maintaining competence.

Options for Auditory Training for Adults with Hearing Loss.

PubMed

Olson, Anne D

2015-11-01

Hearing aid devices alone do not adequately compensate for sensory losses despite significant technological advances in digital technology. Overall use rates of amplification among adults with hearing loss remain low, and overall satisfaction and performance in noise can be improved. Although improved technology may partially address some listening problems, auditory training may be another alternative to improve speech recognition in noise and satisfaction with devices. The literature underlying auditory plasticity following placement of sensory devices suggests that additional auditory training may be needed for reorganization of the brain to occur. Furthermore, training may be required to acquire optimal performance from devices. Several auditory training programs that are readily accessible for adults with hearing loss, hearing aids, or cochlear implants are described. Programs that can be accessed via Web-based formats and smartphone technology are reviewed. A summary table is provided for easy access to programs with descriptions of features that allow hearing health care providers to assist clients in selecting the most appropriate auditory training program to fit their needs.

Starlings uphold principles of economic rationality for delay and probability of reward.

PubMed

Monteiro, Tiago; Vasconcelos, Marco; Kacelnik, Alex

2013-04-07

Rationality principles are the bedrock of normative theories of decision-making in biology and microeconomics, but whereas in microeconomics, consistent choice underlies the notion of utility; in biology, the assumption of consistent selective pressures justifies modelling decision mechanisms as if they were designed to maximize fitness. In either case, violations of consistency contradict expectations and attract theoretical interest. Reported violations of rationality in non-humans include intransitivity (i.e. circular preferences) and lack of independence of irrelevant alternatives (changes in relative preference between options when embedded in different choice sets), but the extent to which these observations truly represent breaches of rationality is debatable. We tested both principles with starlings (Sturnus vulgaris), training subjects either with five options differing in food delay (exp. 1) or with six options differing in reward probability (exp. 2), before letting them choose repeatedly one option out of several binary and trinary sets of options. The starlings conformed to economic rationality on both tests, showing strong stochastic transitivity and no violation of the independence principle. These results endorse the rational choice and optimality approaches used in behavioural ecology, and highlight the need for functional and mechanistic enquiring when apparent violations of such principles are observed.

Starlings uphold principles of economic rationality for delay and probability of reward

PubMed Central

Monteiro, Tiago; Vasconcelos, Marco; Kacelnik, Alex

2013-01-01

Rationality principles are the bedrock of normative theories of decision-making in biology and microeconomics, but whereas in microeconomics, consistent choice underlies the notion of utility; in biology, the assumption of consistent selective pressures justifies modelling decision mechanisms as if they were designed to maximize fitness. In either case, violations of consistency contradict expectations and attract theoretical interest. Reported violations of rationality in non-humans include intransitivity (i.e. circular preferences) and lack of independence of irrelevant alternatives (changes in relative preference between options when embedded in different choice sets), but the extent to which these observations truly represent breaches of rationality is debatable. We tested both principles with starlings (Sturnus vulgaris), training subjects either with five options differing in food delay (exp. 1) or with six options differing in reward probability (exp. 2), before letting them choose repeatedly one option out of several binary and trinary sets of options. The starlings conformed to economic rationality on both tests, showing strong stochastic transitivity and no violation of the independence principle. These results endorse the rational choice and optimality approaches used in behavioural ecology, and highlight the need for functional and mechanistic enquiring when apparent violations of such principles are observed. PMID:23390098

Managing military training-related environmental disturbance.

PubMed

Zentelis, Rick; Banks, Sam; Roberts, J Dale; Dovers, Stephen; Lindenmayer, David

2017-12-15

Military Training Areas (MTAs) cover at least 2 percent of the Earth's terrestrial surface and occur in all major biomes. These areas are potentially important for biodiversity conservation. The greatest challenge in managing MTAs is balancing the disturbance associated with military training and environmental values. These challenges are unique as no other land use is managed for these types of anthropogenic disturbances in a natural setting. We investigated how military training-related disturbance is best managed on MTAs. Specifically, we explored management options to maximise the amount of military training that can be undertaken on a MTA while minimising the amount of environmental disturbance. MTAs comprise of a number of ranges designed to facilitate different types of military training. We simulated military training-related environmental disturbance at different range usage rates under a typical range rotation use strategy, and compared the results to estimated ecosystem recovery rates from training activities. We found that even at relatively low simulated usage rates, random allocation and random spatial use of training ranges within an MTA resulted in environmental degradation under realistic ecological recovery rates. To avoid large scale environmental degradation, we developed a decision-making tool that details the best method for managing training-related disturbance by determining how training activities can be allocated to training ranges. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

German medical students lack knowledge of how to treat smoking and problem drinking.

PubMed

Strobel, Lisa; Schneider, Nick K; Krampe, Henning; Beißbarth, Tim; Pukrop, Tobias; Anders, Sven; West, Robert; Aveyard, Paul; Raupach, Tobias

2012-10-01

To assess the extent of undergraduate medical training on alcohol use disorders (AUD) and smoking, and medical students' perceived knowledge regarding consequences of, and treatment options for, these disorders compared with other chronic conditions. Cross-sectional survey assessing teaching and perceived knowledge of health consequences and treatment options for AUD and smoking compared with diabetes and hypertension. Medical schools in Germany. Twenty-five of 36 medical school offices (response rate 69.4%) and 19 526 of 39 358 students from 27 medical schools (response rate 49.6%). Medical schools were asked to provide information on curricular coverage of the four conditions. Students reported their year of study and perceived knowledge about the consequences of all four disorders and perceived knowledge of treatment options. Courses time-tabled approximately half as many teaching hours on AUD and tobacco as on diabetes or hypertension. Final-year students reported high levels of knowledge of consequences of all four conditions and how to treat diabetes and hypertension, but only 20% believed they knew how to treat alcohol use disorders or smoking. Curriculum coverage in German medical schools of alcohol use disorders and smoking is half that of diabetes and hypertension, and in the final year of their undergraduate training most students reported inadequate knowledge of how to intervene to address them. © 2012 The Authors. Addiction © 2012 Society for the Study of Addiction.

Validation and Implementation of BRCA1/2 Variant Screening in Ovarian Tumor Tissue.

PubMed

de Jonge, Marthe M; Ruano, Dina; van Eijk, Ronald; van der Stoep, Nienke; Nielsen, Maartje; Wijnen, Juul T; Ter Haar, Natalja T; Baalbergen, Astrid; Bos, Monique E M M; Kagie, Marjolein J; Vreeswijk, Maaike P G; Gaarenstroom, Katja N; Kroep, Judith R; Smit, Vincent T H B M; Bosse, Tjalling; van Wezel, Tom; van Asperen, Christi J

2018-06-21

BRCA1/2 variant analysis in tumor tissue could streamline the referral of patients with epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer to genetic counselors and select patients who benefit most from targeted treatment. We investigated the sensitivity of BRCA1/2 variant analysis in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tumor tissue using a combination of next-generation sequencing and copy number variant multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification. After optimization using a training cohort of known BRCA1/2 mutation carriers, validation was performed in a prospective cohort (Clinical implementation Of BRCA1/2 screening in ovarian tumor tissue: COBRA-cohort) in which screening of BRCA1/2 tumor DNA and leukocyte germline DNA was performed in parallel. BRCA1 promoter hypermethylation and pedigree analysis were also performed. In the training cohort 45 of 46 germline BRCA1/2 variants were detected (sensitivity 98%). In the COBRA cohort (n=62), all six germline variants were identified (sensitivity 100%), together with five somatic BRCA1/2 variants and eight cases with BRCA1 promoter hypermethylation. In four BRCA1/2 variant-negative patients, surveillance or prophylactic management options were offered based on positive family histories. We conclude that BRCA1/2 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tumor tissue analysis reliably detects BRCA1/2 variants. When taking family history of BRCA1/2 variant-negative patients into account, tumor BRCA1/2 variant screening allows more efficient selection of epithelial ovarian cancer patients for genetic counselling and simultaneously selects patients who benefit most from targeted treatment. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Shared decision-making.

PubMed

Godolphin, William

2009-01-01

Shared decision-making has been called the crux of patient-centred care and identified as a key part of change for improved quality and safety in healthcare. However, it rarely happens, is hard to do and is not taught - for many reasons. Talking with patients about options is not embedded in the attitudes or communication skills training of most healthcare professionals. Information tools such as patient decision aids, personal health records and the Internet will help to shift this state, as will policy that drives patient and public involvement in healthcare delivery and training.

[Increase in working hours is an option for improving surgical education in Denmark].

PubMed

Andresen, Kristoffer; Achiam, Michael Patrich; Rosenberg, Jacob

2013-05-06

Danish surgeons in training have a 37-hour workweek. These are relatively few hours compared with the hours in England and USA where surgeons have a workweek of respectively 48 and 80 hours. The optimal length of a workweek during surgical education is unknown, but studies have shown that surgeons working more hours have improved abilities in clinical judgment. Learning outcome may improve if Danish surgeons in training were allowed to work more hours. We suggest a 37 + 11-hour workweek, where 11 hours are reserved for educational purposes.

Junior Purple Log-Warriors: Joint Entry-Level Training for Logistics Personnel

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-02-01

technical training. This option would have the lowest net cost and would be the most effective in joint integration and development of an... premium on the need for all levels of joint logisticians that are able to respond quickly, flexibly, and jointly to the unexpected. The (United States...Army Logistics Management College, is for active or reserve O-3 to O-5s, W-3 to W-5s, E-8 to E-9s, and GS-12 to GS/GM-14s. A similar course of the

Health facility challenges to the provision of Option B+ in western Kenya: a qualitative study

PubMed Central

Akama, Eliud; Bukusi, Elizabeth A; Musoke, Pamela; Nalwa, Wafula Z; Odeny, Thomas A; Onono, Maricianah; Spangler, Sydney A; Turan, Janet M; Wanga, Iris; Abuogi, Lisa L

2017-01-01

Current WHO guidelines recommend lifelong antiretroviral therapy (ART) for all HIV-positive individuals, including pregnant and breastfeeding women (Option B+) in settings with generalized HIV epidemics. While Option B+ is scaled-up in Kenya, insufficient adherence and retention to care could undermine the expected positive impact of Option B+. To explore challenges to the provision of Option B+ at the health facility level, we conducted forty individual gender-matched in-depth interviews with HIV-positive pregnant/postpartum women and their male partners, and four focus groups with thirty health care providers at four health facilities in western Kenya between September-November 2014. Transcripts were coded with the Dedoose software using a coding framework based on the literature, topics from interview guides, and emerging themes from transcripts. Excerpts from broad codes were then fine-coded using an inductive approach. Three major themes emerged: 1) Option B+ specific challenges (same-day initiation into treatment, health care providers unconvinced of the benefits of Option B+, insufficient training); 2) facility resource constraints (staff and drug shortages, long queues, space limitations); and 3) lack of client-friendly services (scolding of patients, inconvenient operating hours, lack of integration of services, administrative requirements). This study highlights important challenges at the health facility level related to Option B+ rollout in western Kenya. Addressing these specific challenges may increase linkage, retention and adherence to life-long ART treatment for pregnant HIV-positive women in Kenya, contribute towards elimination of mother-to-child HIV transmission, and improve maternal and child outcomes. PMID:28207061

Health facility challenges to the provision of Option B+ in western Kenya: a qualitative study.

PubMed

Helova, Anna; Akama, Eliud; Bukusi, Elizabeth A; Musoke, Pamela; Nalwa, Wafula Z; Odeny, Thomas A; Onono, Maricianah; Spangler, Sydney A; Turan, Janet M; Wanga, Iris; Abuogi, Lisa L

2017-03-01

Current WHO guidelines recommend lifelong antiretroviral therapy (ART) for all HIV-positive individuals, including pregnant and breastfeeding women (Option B+) in settings with generalized HIV epidemics. While Option B+ is scaled-up in Kenya, insufficient adherence and retention to care could undermine the expected positive impact of Option B+. To explore challenges to the provision of Option B+ at the health facility level, we conducted forty individual gender-matched in-depth interviews with HIV-positive pregnant/postpartum women and their male partners, and four focus groups with thirty health care providers at four health facilities in western Kenya between September-November 2014. Transcripts were coded with the Dedoose software using a coding framework based on the literature, topics from interview guides, and emerging themes from transcripts. Excerpts from broad codes were then fine-coded using an inductive approach. Three major themes emerged: 1) Option B+ specific challenges (same-day initiation into treatment, health care providers unconvinced of the benefits of Option B+, insufficient training); 2) facility resource constraints (staff and drug shortages, long queues, space limitations); and 3) lack of client-friendly services (scolding of patients, inconvenient operating hours, lack of integration of services, administrative requirements). This study highlights important challenges at the health facility level related to Option B+ rollout in western Kenya. Addressing these specific challenges may increase linkage, retention and adherence to life-long ART treatment for pregnant HIV-positive women in Kenya, contribute towards elimination of mother-to-child HIV transmission, and improve maternal and child outcomes.

20 CFR 628.520 - Individual service strategy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... interpreted broadly and based on long-term career guidance. (c) Joint Development of ISS. The ISS shall be..., and ensure that the participant is not excluded from training or career options consistent with the provisions of 29 CFR part 34 concerning nondiscrimination and equal opportunity. (3) For the title II-B...

Balancing Safety and Economy.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Leeds, Robin L.

1999-01-01

Administrators looking for budget relief might look for cost savings in pupil transportation. The basic school bus that meets federal standards, with no optional equipment, is the safest vehicle on the road. The best investment in a transportation program is driver training. Route and schedule changes might lead to an increase in efficiency…

Multiple Modes in Corporate Learning: Propelling Business IQ with Formal, Informal and Social Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ambrose, John; Ogilvie, Julie

2010-01-01

Recognizing that the shifting corporate environment is placing ever greater stresses on learning organizations, this paper reports how companies are increasingly offering employees a wide choice of learning options beyond conventional classroom training, including online, social learning, and other modalities in "blended" programs. Identifying a…

Developing Online Courses: A Human-Centered Approach.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Branon, Rovy; Beatty, Brian; Wilson, Jack

Companies and universities are increasingly moving to online delivery for much of their training and education needs, and designing and building quality distance education is a challenge facing many organizations. Option Six is an independent company that is building customized e-learning solutions. Over the last 2 years, the instructional…

OUTLINE OF VOCATIONAL TRAINING IN ZAMBIA.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Australian Dept. of Labour and National Service, Perth.

THE 1963 POPULATION OF ZAMBIA WAS APPROXIMATELY 3.5 MILLION. THE 8-YEAR PRIMARY EDUCATION PROGRAM IS FOLLOWED BY SECONDARY, SECONDARY TECHNICAL, AND TRADE SCHOOL OPTIONS. THERE IS AN INCREASE IN ADULT EDUCATION AT THE PRIMARY AND SECONDARY LEVELS. CRAFT AND TECHNICIAN LEVEL PROGRAMS ARE CONDUCTED AT NORTHERN TECHNICAL COLLEGE AND ITS ANCILLARY…

Guidelines for Teachers of Online Information Retrieval.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wood, F. E.

These guidelines are intended to provide realistic and practical guidance about the options available to teachers and planners of education and training programs wholly or partly concerned with online information retrieval, particularly those in academic departments of library and information studies. Seven sections address: (1) the aims and scope…

A Study on Substance Abuse Prevention

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Seçim, Gürcan

2017-01-01

This study aims to examine options to increase the supportive power of parents, teachers, school administrators, and counselors who directly interact with children and adolescents and have a fundamental responsibility to protect them from the risks of substance abuse and evaluate the effectiveness of associated training programs. The study design…

The Federal Pell Grant Program: Recent Growth and Policy Options

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Congressional Budget Office, 2013

2013-01-01

The Federal Pell Grant Program was created to improve the access of low-income students to postsecondary education. Grant recipients enroll at a variety of educational institutions, including four-year colleges and universities, for-profit schools, two-year community colleges, and institutions that specialize in occupational training. Grants are…

Media and the Small College-Try Cable.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hay, Ellen A.

Cable television's local access option may be a way for colleges and universities to expand their media offerings. For example, some institutions are using cable capabilities to broadcast direct and inservice instruction or to provide hands-on training for broadcast students. A small private liberal arts college in Iowa successfully uses cable…

36 CFR 1210.25 - Revision of budget and program plans.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... may, at its option, restrict the transfer of funds among direct cost categories or programs, functions... or the objective of the project or program (even if there is no associated budget revision requiring... funds allotted for training allowances (direct payment to trainees) to other categories of expense. (8...

Model Offices: Flexible Options, Local Innovations.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Perspective: Essays and Reviews of Issues in Employment Security and Employment and Training Programs, 1990

1990-01-01

This volume of an annual journal contains 17 articles that focus on model local offices of the employment security (ES) and training systems. The articles are arranged in three parts. Part I, on developing new initiatives, contains the following five articles: "A Public Employment Service for the 1990s" (Elizabeth Dole); "The…

Student Perceptions of Web-Based Supplemental Instruction

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Freeman, Steven A.; Field, Dennis W.

2004-01-01

The Internet is changing the way in which education is delivered, and in fact, some predict that the Internet will become the dominant distribution system for distance education and training. Many faculty members are expanding their traditional delivery methods (lecture, laboratory, face-to-face discussion) to include educational options ranging…

Serving Homeless Children and Families in Head Start.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Koblinsky, Sally A.; Anderson, Elaine A.

1993-01-01

Describes the plight of homeless families in the United States, examining the special role that Head Start programs can play in homeless families' lives. Suggests that Head Start programs need to address staff training, family recruitment, health services, transportation, flexible scheduling, home-based options, attendance, parent education,…

Vocational Training for Adolescent English Language Learners in Newcomer Programs: Opportunities or Isolation?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Salerno, April S.; Kibler, Amanda K.

2015-01-01

This article presents findings from a qualitative study of newly arrived immigrant students attending mainstream vocational courses through a high school newcomer program in the southern United States. As educators turn to vocational options for instructing linguistically diverse students, this project carefully considers how students experience…

Decreasing the Officer Accession Standard to Meet the 202k Manpower Requirement?

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-02-20

accommodate their family and personal lives. They want jobs with flexibility, telecommuting options and the ability to go part time or leave the workforce... stress , high tempo training environment that has been highly efficient in screening those who are not qualified to be Marine officers. Within the

Questions to Answer before You Branch out on a CD-ROM Network.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Simpson, Carol Mann

1992-01-01

Examines issues that librarians must address when purchasing databases on CD-ROM for networking. Highlights include network licenses; costs; restrictions on network rights; ownership of CD-ROMs; hardware requirements; fees for upgrading software; CD-ROM servers; pricing options; training materials; and disk drives. (LRW)

Transforming School Counseling: Making a Difference for Students.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sears, Susan

1999-01-01

Convinced that school counselors can do more to increase young people's access to high achievement and successful postsecondary educational and career options, the DeWitt Wallace-Readers' Digest Fund awarded the Education Trust a planning grant to study counselor preparation. Ten universities were selected to revamp training programs around eight…

Selection of School Counsellors in New Zealand.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Manthei, R. J.

This paper presents the views of the New Zealand Counselling and Guidance Association regarding the need for changes in the system of selecting individuals for training as school counselors in New Zealand. A number of options are offered for improving the mechanics of selection, recommending selection criteria, and suggesting procedures for…

Advanced Technology Training Program for the Apparel Industry. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

El Paso Community Coll., TX.

A project developed rapid response, advanced technology courses that met the apparel market labor needs of the El Paso (Texas) community. Courses were designed for four options: computerized marker making and pattern grading, computerized front office systems, high technology machinery operation, and high technology machinery mechanics. The…

Expanding Options for Handicapped Persons Receiving Vocational Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

West Virginia Coll. of Graduate Studies, Institute.

Resulting from a West Virginia training institute, the document provides guidelines (in outline form) for stimulating change in vocational education for handicapped students at the secondary level. Section I on the operational world provides a basis for developing sound organization needed for proper implementation of the guidelines. Steps geared…

Effect of Peer Mentors on Academic Performance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bonin, Elizabeth

2016-01-01

Undergraduate peer mentoring programs strive to retain students who solve their own problems, develop options, unravel obstacles, and establish a process of figuring out solutions. A crucial component of obtaining that goal is to effectively train peer mentors to serve as advocates to freshman undergraduate students. Terrion and Philion (2008)…

Developing African Novice Researchers into Career Investigators: Innovative Options

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tumwijukye, Henry; Motevalli, Mahnaz; Nambi, Sophia; Kyeyune, Isaac

2013-01-01

Over the last decade, Sub-Saharan Africa has experienced an increased volume of funding and training activities to support research capacity development. However, there are persistent deficits in the number of active investigators conducting independent research with their own grants. To address this deficit, research institutions need to find an…

Attrition-retention rates of air traffic control trainees recruited during 1960-1963 and 1968-1970.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1972-11-01

The study involved a total of 6,367 subjects in three ATCS options. Of these, 2,000 entered FAA Academy training during 1960 to 1963, before an ATC-Aptitude Test Battery became operational in the screening of most applicants. The remaining 4,367 subj...

Medical specialty preferences in early medical school training in Canada.

PubMed

Vo, Anthony; McLean, Laurie; McInnes, Matthew D F

2017-11-14

To understand what medical students consider when choosing their specialty, prior to significant clinical exposure to develop strategies to provide adequate career counseling. A cross-sectional study was performed by distributing optional questionnaires to 165 first-year medical students at the University of Ottawa in their first month of training with a sample yield of 54.5% (n=90).  Descriptive statistics, analysis of variance, Spearman's rank correlation, Cronbach's alpha coefficient, Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin Measure, and exploratory factor analyses were used to analyze the anonymized results. "Job satisfaction", "lifestyle following training" and, "impact on the patient" were the three highest rated considerations when choosing a specialty.  Fifty-two and seventeen percent (n=24) and 57.89% (n=22) of males and females ranked non-surgical specialties as their top choice. Student confidence in their specialty preferences was moderate, meaning their preference could likely change (mean=2.40/5.00, SD=1.23). ANOVA showed no significant differences between confidence and population size (F(2,86)=0.290, p=0.75) or marital status (F(2,85)=0.354, p=0.70) in both genders combined. Five underlying factors that explained 44.32% of the total variance were identified. Five themes were identified to enhance career counseling. Medical students in their first month of training have already considered their specialty preferences, despite limited exposure. However, students are not fixed in their specialty preference. Our findings further support previous results but expand what students consider when choosing their specialty early in their training. Medical educators and administrators who recognize and understand the importance of these considerations may further enhance career counseling and medical education curricula.

On feature augmentation for semantic argument classification of the Quran English translation using support vector machine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khaira Batubara, Dina; Arif Bijaksana, Moch; Adiwijaya

2018-03-01

Research on the semantic argument classification requires semantically labeled data in large numbers, called corpus. Because building a corpus is costly and time-consuming, recently many studies have used existing corpus as the training data to conduct semantic argument classification research on new domain. But previous studies have proven that there is a significant decrease in performance when classifying semantic arguments on different domain between the training and the testing data. The main problem is when there is a new argument that found in the testing data but it is not found in the training data. This research carries on semantic argument classification on a new domain that is Quran English Translation by utilizing Propbank corpus as the training data. To recognize the new argument in the training data, this research proposes four new features for extending the argument features in the training data. By using SVM Linear, the experiment has proven that augmenting the proposed features to the baseline system with some combinations option improve the performance of semantic argument classification on Quran data using Propbank Corpus as training data.

First of all: Do not harm! Use of simulation for the training of regional anaesthesia techniques: Which skills can be trained without the patient as substitute for a mannequin.

PubMed

Sujatta, Susanne

2015-03-01

Character of clinical skills training is always influenced by technical improvement and cultural changes. Over the last years, two trends have changed the way of traditional apprenticeship-style training in regional anaesthesia: firstly, the development in ultrasound-guided regional anaesthesia, and secondly, the reduced acceptance of using patients as mannequins for invasive techniques. Against this background, simulation techniques are explored, ranging from simple low-fidelity part-task training models to train skills in needle application, to highly sophisticated virtual reality models – the full range is covered. This review tries to discuss all available options with benefits and neglects. The task in clinical practice will be in choosing the right level of sophistication for the desired approach and trainee level. However, the transfer of simulated skills to clinical practice has not been evaluated. It has to be proven whether simulation-trained skills could, as a last consequence, reduce the risk to patients. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Virtual reality training for surgical trainees in laparoscopic surgery.

PubMed

Nagendran, Myura; Gurusamy, Kurinchi Selvan; Aggarwal, Rajesh; Loizidou, Marilena; Davidson, Brian R

2013-08-27

Standard surgical training has traditionally been one of apprenticeship, where the surgical trainee learns to perform surgery under the supervision of a trained surgeon. This is time-consuming, costly, and of variable effectiveness. Training using a virtual reality simulator is an option to supplement standard training. Virtual reality training improves the technical skills of surgical trainees such as decreased time for suturing and improved accuracy. The clinical impact of virtual reality training is not known. To assess the benefits (increased surgical proficiency and improved patient outcomes) and harms (potentially worse patient outcomes) of supplementary virtual reality training of surgical trainees with limited laparoscopic experience. We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) in The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE and Science Citation Index Expanded until July 2012. We included all randomised clinical trials comparing virtual reality training versus other forms of training including box-trainer training, no training, or standard laparoscopic training in surgical trainees with little laparoscopic experience. We also planned to include trials comparing different methods of virtual reality training. We included only trials that assessed the outcomes in people undergoing laparoscopic surgery. Two authors independently identified trials and collected data. We analysed the data with both the fixed-effect and the random-effects models using Review Manager 5 analysis. For each outcome we calculated the mean difference (MD) or standardised mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals based on intention-to-treat analysis. We included eight trials covering 109 surgical trainees with limited laparoscopic experience. Of the eight trials, six compared virtual reality versus no supplementary training. One trial compared virtual reality training versus box-trainer training and versus no supplementary training, and one trial compared virtual reality training versus box-trainer training. There were no trials that compared different forms of virtual reality training. All the trials were at high risk of bias. Operating time and operative performance were the only outcomes reported in the trials. The remaining outcomes such as mortality, morbidity, quality of life (the primary outcomes of this review) and hospital stay (a secondary outcome) were not reported. Virtual reality training versus no supplementary training: The operating time was significantly shorter in the virtual reality group than in the no supplementary training group (3 trials; 49 participants; MD -11.76 minutes; 95% CI -15.23 to -8.30). Two trials that could not be included in the meta-analysis also showed a reduction in operating time (statistically significant in one trial). The numerical values for operating time were not reported in these two trials. The operative performance was significantly better in the virtual reality group than the no supplementary training group using the fixed-effect model (2 trials; 33 participants; SMD 1.65; 95% CI 0.72 to 2.58). The results became non-significant when the random-effects model was used (2 trials; 33 participants; SMD 2.14; 95% CI -1.29 to 5.57). One trial could not be included in the meta-analysis as it did not report the numerical values. The authors stated that the operative performance of virtual reality group was significantly better than the control group. Virtual reality training versus box-trainer training: The only trial that reported operating time did not report the numerical values. In this trial, the operating time in the virtual reality group was significantly shorter than in the box-trainer group. Of the two trials that reported operative performance, only one trial reported the numerical values. The operative performance was significantly better in the virtual reality group than in the box-trainer group (1 trial; 19 participants; SMD 1.46; 95% CI 0.42 to 2.50). In the other trial that did not report the numerical values, the authors stated that the operative performance in the virtual reality group was significantly better than the box-trainer group. Virtual reality training appears to decrease the operating time and improve the operative performance of surgical trainees with limited laparoscopic experience when compared with no training or with box-trainer training. However, the impact of this decreased operating time and improvement in operative performance on patients and healthcare funders in terms of improved outcomes or decreased costs is not known. Further well-designed trials at low risk of bias and random errors are necessary. Such trials should assess the impact of virtual reality training on clinical outcomes.

Auditory Learning Using a Portable Real-Time Vocoder: Preliminary Findings

PubMed Central

Pisoni, David B.

2015-01-01

Purpose Although traditional study of auditory training has been in controlled laboratory settings, interest has been increasing in more interactive options. The authors examine whether such interactive training can result in short-term perceptual learning, and the range of perceptual skills it impacts. Method Experiments 1 (N = 37) and 2 (N = 21) used pre- and posttest measures of speech and nonspeech recognition to find evidence of learning (within subject) and to compare the effects of 3 kinds of training (between subject) on the perceptual abilities of adults with normal hearing listening to simulations of cochlear implant processing. Subjects were given interactive, standard lab-based, or control training experience for 1 hr between the pre- and posttest tasks (unique sets across Experiments 1 & 2). Results Subjects receiving interactive training showed significant learning on sentence recognition in quiet task (Experiment 1), outperforming controls but not lab-trained subjects following training. Training groups did not differ significantly on any other task, even those directly involved in the interactive training experience. Conclusions Interactive training has the potential to produce learning in 1 domain (sentence recognition in quiet), but the particulars of the present training method (short duration, high complexity) may have limited benefits to this single criterion task. PMID:25674884

Learning to identify crowded letters: Does the learning depend on the frequency of training?

PubMed Central

Chung, Susana T. L.; Truong, Sandy R.

2012-01-01

Performance for many visual tasks improves with training. The magnitude of improvement following training depends on the training task, number of trials per training session and the total amount of training. Does the magnitude of improvement also depend on the frequency of training sessions? In this study, we compared the learning effect for three groups of normally sighted observers who repeatedly practiced the task of identifying crowded letters in the periphery for six sessions (1000 trials per session), according to three different training schedules — one group received one session of training everyday, the second group received a training session once a week and the third group once every two weeks. Following six sessions of training, all observers improved in their performance of identifying crowded letters in the periphery. Most importantly, the magnitudes of improvement were similar across the three training groups. The improvement was accompanied by a reduction in the spatial extent of crowding, an increase in the size of visual span and a reduction in letter-size threshold. The magnitudes of these accompanied improvements were also similar across the three training groups. Our finding that the effectiveness of visual perceptual learning is similar for daily, weekly and biweekly training has significant implication for adopting perceptual learning as an option to improve visual functions for clinical patients. PMID:23206551

Primary reaction control system/remote manipulator system interaction with loaded arm. Space shuttle engineering and operations support

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Taylor, E. C.; Davis, J. D.

1978-01-01

A study of the interaction between the orbiter primary reaction control system (PRCS) and the remote manipulator system (RMS) with a loaded arm is documented. This analysis was performed with the Payload Deployment and Retrieval Systems Simulation (PDRSS) program with the passive arm bending option. The passive-arm model simulates the arm as massless elastic links with locked joints. The study was divided into two parts. The first part was the evaluation of the response of the arm to step inputs (i.e. constant jet torques) about each of the orbiter body axes. The second part of the study was the evaluation of the response of the arm to minimum impulse primary RCS jet firings with both single pulse and pulse train inputs.

A homotopy analysis method for the option pricing PDE in illiquid markets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

E-Khatib, Youssef

2012-09-01

One of the shortcomings of the Black and Scholes model on option pricing is the assumption that trading the underlying asset does not affect the underlying asset price. This can happen in perfectly liquid markets and it is evidently not viable in markets with imperfect liquidity (illiquid markets). It is well-known that markets with imperfect liquidity are more realistic. Thus, the presence of price impact while studying options is very important. This paper investigates a solution for the option pricing PDE in illiquid markets using the homotopy analysis method.

Biomedical image classification based on a cascade of an SVM with a reject option and subspace analysis.

PubMed

Lin, Dongyun; Sun, Lei; Toh, Kar-Ann; Zhang, Jing Bo; Lin, Zhiping

2018-05-01

Automated biomedical image classification could confront the challenges of high level noise, image blur, illumination variation and complicated geometric correspondence among various categorical biomedical patterns in practice. To handle these challenges, we propose a cascade method consisting of two stages for biomedical image classification. At stage 1, we propose a confidence score based classification rule with a reject option for a preliminary decision using the support vector machine (SVM). The testing images going through stage 1 are separated into two groups based on their confidence scores. Those testing images with sufficiently high confidence scores are classified at stage 1 while the others with low confidence scores are rejected and fed to stage 2. At stage 2, the rejected images from stage 1 are first processed by a subspace analysis technique called eigenfeature regularization and extraction (ERE), and then classified by another SVM trained in the transformed subspace learned by ERE. At both stages, images are represented based on two types of local features, i.e., SIFT and SURF, respectively. They are encoded using various bag-of-words (BoW) models to handle biomedical patterns with and without geometric correspondence, respectively. Extensive experiments are implemented to evaluate the proposed method on three benchmark real-world biomedical image datasets. The proposed method significantly outperforms several competing state-of-the-art methods in terms of classification accuracy. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Cost Analysis of Kidney Replacement Therapy Options in Palestine

PubMed Central

Jabr, Samer; Al-Khatib, Abdallah; Forgione, Dana; Hartmann, Michael; Kisa, Adnan

2015-01-01

This study provides a cost analysis of kidney replacement therapy options in Palestine. It informs evidence-based resource allocation decisions for government-funded kidney disease services where transplant donors are limited, and some of the common modalities, i.e., peritoneal dialysis (PD) and home hemodialysis (HD), are not widely available due to shortages of qualified staff, specialists, and centers to follow the patient cases, provide training, make home visits, or provide educational programs for patients. The average cost of kidney transplant was US$16 277 for the first year; the estimated cost of HD per patient averaged US$16 085 per year—nearly as much as a transplant. Consistent with prior literature and experience, while live, related kidney donors are scarce, we found that kidney transplant was more adequate and less expensive than HD. These results have direct resource allocation implications for government-funded kidney disease services under Palestinian Ministry of Health. Our findings strongly suggest that investing in sufficient qualified staff, equipment, and clinical infrastructure to replace HD services with transplantation whenever medically indicated and suitable kidney donors are available, as well as deploying PD programs and Home HD programs, will result in major overall cost savings. Our results provide a better understanding of the costs of kidney disease and will help to inform Ministry of Health and related policy makers as they develop short- and long-term strategies for the population, in terms of both cost savings and enhanced quality of life. PMID:25765018

A cost analysis of kidney replacement therapy options in Palestine.

PubMed

Younis, Mustafa; Jabr, Samer; Al-Khatib, Abdallah; Forgione, Dana; Hartmann, Michael; Kisa, Adnan

2015-01-01

This study provides a cost analysis of kidney replacement therapy options in Palestine. It informs evidence-based resource allocation decisions for government-funded kidney disease services where transplant donors are limited, and some of the common modalities, i.e., peritoneal dialysis (PD) and home hemodialysis (HD), are not widely available due to shortages of qualified staff, specialists, and centers to follow the patient cases, provide training, make home visits, or provide educational programs for patients. The average cost of kidney transplant was US$16,277 for the first year; the estimated cost of HD per patient averaged US$16,085 per year--nearly as much as a transplant. Consistent with prior literature and experience, while live, related kidney donors are scarce, we found that kidney transplant was more adequate and less expensive than HD. These results have direct resource allocation implications for government-funded kidney disease services under Palestinian Ministry of Health. Our findings strongly suggest that investing in sufficient qualified staff, equipment, and clinical infrastructure to replace HD services with transplantation whenever medically indicated and suitable kidney donors are available, as well as deploying PD programs and Home HD programs, will result in major overall cost savings. Our results provide a better understanding of the costs of kidney disease and will help to inform Ministry of Health and related policy makers as they develop short- and long-term strategies for the population, in terms of both cost savings and enhanced quality of life. © The Author(s) 2015.

The MHOST finite element program: 3-D inelastic analysis methods for hot section components. Volume 2: User's manual

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nakazawa, Shohei

1989-01-01

The user options available for running the MHOST finite element analysis package is described. MHOST is a solid and structural analysis program based on the mixed finite element technology, and is specifically designed for 3-D inelastic analysis. A family of 2- and 3-D continuum elements along with beam and shell structural elements can be utilized, many options are available in the constitutive equation library, the solution algorithms and the analysis capabilities. The outline of solution algorithms is discussed along with the data input and output, analysis options including the user subroutines and the definition of the finite elements implemented in the program package.

Requirements for a Device-Based Training and Testing Program for M1 Gunnery. Volume 2. Detailed Analyses and Results

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-03-01

Dtftntt A- 5 ACTIVITY J. ACQUIRE TAR6ET(S) A-» Part 3.1. SNI-CII For Ttrg«t(i) A-6 Option 3.1.1. Search Open Hatch-- 0 *y A-4 Option 3.1.2. Starch...gunner time in position 0 -10 D- 5 . Percent of engagements in which crew cuts were observed . . . 0 -11 0 -6. First-round performance of tank... 5 of VII IB are based on much smaller ns, i.e., usually less than 20. 0 -3 The Database The Grafenwöhr Table VIII data is implemented on an IBM

Psychiatric specialization as an option for medical students in the Indian context.

PubMed

Praharaj, Samir Kumar; Behere, Rishikesh V; Deora, Sumit; Sharma, P S V N

2013-08-01

There is a shortage of psychiatrists in India and psychiatry as a subject of specialization is not a preferred option among medical undergraduates. There is inadequate exposure to psychiatry during the medical undergraduate training in India which might contribute towards it. There are attempts to overcome the negative attitudes towards psychiatry and mental illness among medical undergraduates by changes in the curriculum. In this paper we attempt to review studies on attitudes of undergraduate students towards psychiatry and compare the results with findings from our own survey done as a part of International Study of Student Career Choice in Psychiatry (ISoSCCiP) project.

Evaluating computer capabilities in a primary care practice-based research network.

PubMed

Ariza, Adolfo J; Binns, Helen J; Christoffel, Katherine Kaufer

2004-01-01

We wanted to assess computer capabilities in a primary care practice-based research network and to understand how receptive the practices were to new ideas for automation of practice activities and research. This study was conducted among members of the Pediatric Practice Research Group (PPRG). A survey to assess computer capabilities was developed to explore hardware types, software programs, Internet connectivity and data transmission; views on privacy and security; and receptivity to future electronic data collection approaches. Of the 40 PPRG practices participating in the study during the autumn of 2001, all used IBM-compatible systems. Of these, 45% used stand-alone desktops, 40% had networked desktops, and approximately 15% used laptops and minicomputers. A variety of software packages were used, with most practices (82%) having software for some aspect of patient care documentation, patient accounting (90%), business support (60%), and management reports and analysis (97%). The main obstacles to expanding use of computers in patient care were insufficient staff training (63%) and privacy concerns (82%). If provided with training and support, most practices indicated they were willing to consider an array of electronic data collection options for practice-based research activities. There is wide variability in hardware and software use in the pediatric practice setting. Implementing electronic data collection in the PPRG would require a substantial start-up effort and ongoing training and support at the practice site.

[How to become a trauma surgeon: analysis of the current situation and concepts for career development in the new common field of orthopaedics and trauma surgery--part I].

PubMed

Mittlmeier, T; Bonnaire, F; Grützner, P A; Lill, H; Matthes, G; Prokop, A; Seifert, J; Voigt, C; Walcher, F; Wölfl, C; Siebert, H

2010-06-01

The lack of clinical residents especially in the surgical domains, including orthopaedics and trauma surgery, is not only omnipresent but also a topic of lively discussions. This lack originates from sociopolitical and healthcare policy issues as well as from a loss of attractiveness of all surgical disciplines. The loss is caused by the high workload and disadvantageous working hours especially in those disciplines with a high rate of emergencies, e.g. trauma surgery. Moreover, it is caused by the poorly structured and unpredictable period of residency. In order to anticipate the bottleneck in supply due to the lack of trainees, a number of structural and contextual measures have to be taken to improve both undergraduate und postgraduate surgical training. Due to the numerous facets of the topic the first part of this analysis refers to the period until the trainee decides on the field of training.A basic insight into the field of orthopaedics and trauma surgery can already be offered far before the period of medical studies itself. During undergraduate medical education the existing structures should be modified, the characteristics of the discipline should be emphasized and the charm of combining theory and practical skills should be highlighted in order to enhance student's perception of the discipline. This might begin during preclinical training and should be continued throughout clinical training and elective courses (basic wound care, TEAM approach, AO course for students and seminars for M.D. candidates). Contextual and structural improvements of the practical year are indispensable to arouse students' interest in our discipline. These options conjoined with the actual offers for students provided by our scientific society, such as guided tours during the annual congress, travelling grants and the recently inaugurated summer school, might provide the basis for clearly structured information and offer a distinct stimulus to apply for residency in our field.

Space Station Systems Analysis Study. Volume 1: Executive summary, part 1 and 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1977-01-01

The elements of space station programs required to support an operational base theme, a space laboratory theme, and advanced missions relatable to public needs/national interests are defined. Missions satisfying the foregoing requirements are identified, program scenarios/options are established. System options are evaluated for a selected number of program options. Subsystem analysis and programmatic comparisons are performed for selected primary concepts.

Option Grids to facilitate shared decision making for patients with Osteoarthritis of the knee: protocol for a single site, efficacy trial.

PubMed

Marrin, Katy; Wood, Fiona; Firth, Jill; Kinsey, Katharine; Edwards, Adrian; Brain, Kate E; Newcombe, Robert G; Nye, Alan; Pickles, Timothy; Hawthorne, Kamila; Elwyn, Glyn

2014-04-07

Despite policy interest, an ethical imperative, and evidence of the benefits of patient decision support tools, the adoption of shared decision making (SDM) in day-to-day clinical practice remains slow and is inhibited by barriers that include culture and attitudes; resources and time pressures. Patient decision support tools often require high levels of health and computer literacy. Option Grids are one-page evidence-based summaries of the available condition-specific treatment options, listing patients' frequently asked questions. They are designed to be sufficiently brief and accessible enough to support a better dialogue between patients and clinicians during routine consultations. This paper describes a study to assess whether an Option Grid for osteoarthritis of the knee (OA of the knee) facilitates SDM, and explores the use of Option Grids by patients disadvantaged by language or poor health literacy. This will be a stepped wedge exploratory trial involving 72 patients with OA of the knee referred from primary medical care to a specialist musculoskeletal service in Oldham. Six physiotherapists will sequentially join the trial and consult with six patients using usual care procedures. After a period of brief training in using the Option Grid, the same six physiotherapists will consult with six further patients using an Option Grid in the consultation. The primary outcome will be efficacy of the Option Grid in facilitating SDM as measured by observational scores using the OPTION scale. Comparisons will be made between patients who have received the Option Grid and those who received usual care. A Decision Quality Measure (DQM) will assess quality of decision making. The health literacy of patients will be measured using the REALM-R instrument. Consultations will be observed and audio-recorded. Interviews will be conducted with the physiotherapists, patients and any interpreters present to explore their views of using the Option Grid. Option Grids offer a potential solution to the barriers to implementing traditional decision aids into routine clinical practice. The study will assess whether Option Grids can facilitate SDM in day-to-day clinical practice and explore their use with patients disadvantaged by language or poor health literacy. Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN94871417.

Medial tibial stress syndrome: conservative treatment options.

PubMed

Galbraith, R Michael; Lavallee, Mark E

2009-10-07

Medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS), commonly known as "shin splints," is a frequent injury of the lower extremity and one of the most common causes of exertional leg pain in athletes (Willems T, Med Sci Sports Exerc 39(2):330-339, 2007; Korkola M, Amendola A, Phys Sportsmed 29(6):35-50, 2001; Hreljac A, Med Sci Sports Exerc 36(5):845-849, 2004). Although often not serious, it can be quite disabling and progress to more serious complications if not treated properly. Often, the cause of MTSS is multi-factorial and involves training errors and various biomechanical abnormalities. Few advances have been made in the treatment of MTSS over the last few decades. Current treatment options are mostly based on expert opinion and clinical experience. The purpose of this article is to review published literature regarding conservative treatment options for MTSS and provide recommendations for sports medicine clinicians for improved treatment and patient outcomes.

Patient and family communication during consultation visits: The effects of a decision aid for treatment decision-making for localized prostate cancer.

PubMed

Song, Lixin; Tyler, Christina; Clayton, Margaret F; Rodgiriguez-Rassi, Eleanor; Hill, Latorya; Bai, Jinbing; Pruthi, Raj; Bailey, Donald E

2017-02-01

To analyze the effects of a decision aid on improving patients' and family members' information giving and question asking during consultations for prostate cancer treatment decision-making. This study is a secondary analysis of archived audio-recorded real-time consultation visits with participants from a randomized clinical trial. Participants were randomly assigned into three groups: TD-intervention targeted patient-only; TS-intervention targeted patients and family members; and control-a handout on staying healthy during treatment. We conducted content analysis using a researcher-developed communication coding system. Using SAS 9.3, we conducted Chi-square/Fisher's exact test to examine whether information giving and question asking among patients and family members varied by groups when discussing different content/topics. Compared with those in the TS and control groups, significantly higher percentages of participants in the TD group demonstrated information giving in discussing topics about diagnosis, treatment options, risks and benefits, and preferences; and engaged in question asking when discussing diagnosis, watchful waiting/active surveillance, risks and benefits, and preferences for treatment impacts. Information support and communication skills training for patients were effective in improving communication during treatment decision-making consultations. Providing information about prostate cancer and communication skills training empower patients and their family members. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Patient and family communication during consultation visits: The effects of a decision aid for treatment decision-making for localized prostate cancer

PubMed Central

Song, Lixin; Tyler, Christina; Clayton, Margaret F.; Rodgiriguez-Rassi, Eleanor; Hill, Latorya; Bai, Jinbing; Pruthi, Raj; Bailey, Donald E.

2016-01-01

Objective To analyze the effects of a decision aid on improving patients’ and family members’ information giving and question asking during consultations for prostate cancer treatment decision-making. Methods This study is a secondary analysis of archived audio-recorded real-time consultation visits with participants from a randomized clinical trial. Participants were randomly assigned into three groups: TD—intervention targeted patient-only; TS—intervention targeted patients and family members; and control—a handout on staying healthy during treatment. We conducted content analysis using a researcher-developed communication coding system. Using SAS 9.3, we conducted Chi-square/Fisher’s exact test to examine whether information giving and question asking among patients and family members varied by groups when discussing different content/topics. Results Compared with those in the TS and control groups, significantly higher percentages of participants in the TD group demonstrated information giving in discussing topics about diagnosis, treatment options, risks and benefits, and preferences; and engaged in question asking when discussing diagnosis, watchful waiting/active surveillance, risks and benefits, and preferences for treatment impacts. Conclusion Information support and communication skills training for patients were effective in improving communication during treatment decision-making consultations. Practice implications Providing information about prostate cancer and communication skills training empower patients and their family members. PMID:27692491

Real options analysis for land use management: Methods, application, and implications for policy.

PubMed

Regan, Courtney M; Bryan, Brett A; Connor, Jeffery D; Meyer, Wayne S; Ostendorf, Bertram; Zhu, Zili; Bao, Chenming

2015-09-15

Discounted cash flow analysis, including net present value is an established way to value land use and management investments which accounts for the time-value of money. However, it provides a static view and assumes passive commitment to an investment strategy when real world land use and management investment decisions are characterised by uncertainty, irreversibility, change, and adaptation. Real options analysis has been proposed as a better valuation method under uncertainty and where the opportunity exists to delay investment decisions, pending more information. We briefly review the use of discounted cash flow methods in land use and management and discuss their benefits and limitations. We then provide an overview of real options analysis, describe the main analytical methods, and summarize its application to land use investment decisions. Real options analysis is largely underutilized in evaluating land use decisions, despite uncertainty in policy and economic drivers, the irreversibility and sunk costs involved. New simulation methods offer the potential for overcoming current technical challenges to implementation as demonstrated with a real options simulation model used to evaluate an agricultural land use decision in South Australia. We conclude that considering option values in future policy design will provide a more realistic assessment of landholder investment decision making and provide insights for improved policy performance. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Regionalisation of general practice training--are we meeting the needs of rural Australia?

PubMed

Campbell, David G; Greacen, Jane H; Giddings, Patrick H; Skinner, Lesley P

2011-06-06

The concept of "social accountability" has underpinned the development of many medical education programs over the past decade. Success of the regionalisation of the general practice training program in Australia will ultimately be measured by the ability of the program to deliver a sufficient rural general practice workforce to meet the health needs of rural communities. Regionalisation of general practice training in Australia arose from the 1998 recommendations of the Ministerial Review of General Practice Training. The resultant competitive structure adopted by government was not the preferred option of the Review Committee, and may be a negative influence on rural workforce, as the competitive corporate structure of regional training providers has created barriers to meaningful vertical integration. Available data suggest that the regionalised training program is not yet providing a sustainable general practice workforce to rural Australia. The current increase in medical student and general practice training places provides an opportunity to address some of these issues. In particular, it is recommended that changes be made to registrar selection processes, the rural pipeline and vertical integration of training, and training for procedural rural practice. To achieve these goals, perhaps it is time for another comprehensive ministerial review of general practice training in Australia.

Emergency medical personnel training: I. An historical perspective.

PubMed

Sytkowski, P A; Jacobs, L M; Meany, M

1983-01-01

The status of Emergency Medical Technicians has evolved from an undefined role with few rules, regulations, or standards to an established health care profession and a nationally administered program. The evolution of this profession received major impetus from the 1966 report by the National Academy of Science/National Research Council that provided recommended training standards. Development of a training course curriculum for basic life support (BLS) followed. The need for coordinated training of Emergency Medical Technical Technicians was recognized, and funds became available to aid in the national standardization of education, examination, certification, and recertification procedures for EMTs. Concomitant with the attempt to standardize BLS training, advanced life support (ALS) programs grew in number. By 1977 the National Standard Training Curriculum became available and was soon followed by a national certification exam. As states have the option to accept or reject the federal standards embodied in the national training course, there remains variation among programs offered by each state. Because of the difference in need for specific emergency services among the states at a time of increased professional mobility, arguments still exist regarding the desirability of federally mandated training and certification programs.

The Role of Coping Change in Borderline Personality Disorder: A Process-Outcome Analysis on Dialectical-Behaviour Skills Training.

PubMed

Kramer, Ueli

2017-03-01

Difficulty in emotion regulation is a hallmark feature of patients with borderline personality disorder (BPD). Skills training concepts based on dialectical-behaviour therapy (DBT) are common and effective treatment options for specifically addressing lacking skills in emotion regulation. However, so far it is unclear which aspects of coping change over the course of DBT skills training and if these coping strategies predict symptom change. The present process-outcome analysis, based on a randomized controlled study, aims at investigating these questions, by referring to a general conception of coping and by using an observer-rated approach to assess coping strategies directly in the therapy sessions. In total, n = 31 patients with BPD underwent two individual clinical interview assessments (pre- and post-study intervention; half of the patients underwent DBT skills training, half were in a wait-list control). All individual assessment sessions were transcribed and analysed using the Coping Action Pattern Rating Scale. Outcome was assessed pre- and post-intervention using the Outcome Questionnaire-45.2 and the Borderline Symptom List 23. The results showed increase in overall coping functioning in patients who underwent the DBT skills training, compared with the controls, and specific increases in relatedness coping where the stress is appraised as challenge, along with specific decreases in autonomy coping where the stress is appraised as threat. These changes predicted changes in general distress and borderline symptomatology. The results are interpreted within a general framework aiming at understanding the psychological effects of treatments for BPD, in particular effects related to coping. Effective emotion regulation strategies may therefore be important candidates as potential change mechanisms in treatments for BPD. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. It seems important for clinicians to assess the quality of coping strategies as they occur within the session facing a patient with borderline personality disorder. Clinicians may foster the emergence of support-seeking and self-reliance coping strategies in order to increase the effectiveness of therapy. Clinicians may monitor closely the patient's use of ineffective emotion regulation strategies, in particular opposition and submission, with the aim of reducing them early in therapy. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Effects of whole body vibration exercise on neuromuscular function for individuals with knee osteoarthritis: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Lai, Zhangqi; Wang, Xueqiang; Lee, Seullee; Hou, Xihe; Wang, Lin

2017-09-20

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a leading cause of public disability. Neuromuscular function contributes to the development and/or progression of KOA. Whole body vibration (WBV) exercise improve the neuromuscular function of patients with neurological disorders and even that of older patients with limited exercise options. Therefore, WBV exercise may offer an efficient and alternative treatment for individuals with KOA. However, the effects of WBV training on the neuromuscular function of individuals with KOA remain unclear. Therefore, this study attempts to investigate the effect of a 12-week WBV exercise on the neuromuscular function of individuals with KOA. We will conduct a prospective, single-blind randomized controlled trial on 180 KOA patients. Participants will be randomly assigned to the WBV exercise, lower extremity resistance training, and health education groups. The WBV exercise group will participate in a 12-week WBV training. The lower extremity resistance training group will undergo a 12-week lower extremity resistance training of both lower limbs. The control group will receive health education for 12 weeks. After the intervention, the participants will be followed up for 3 months with no active intervention. Primary outcome measures will include anthropometric measurements, gait analysis during walking and stair climbing, muscle strength test of the knee and ankle, proprioception test of the knee and ankle, and neuromuscular response of the leg muscles. Secondary outcome measures will include self-reported pain and physical functional capacity, and physical performance measures. Furthermore, adverse events will be recorded and analyzed. If any participant withdraws from the trial, intention-to-treat analysis will be performed. Important features of this trial mainly include intervention setting, outcome measure selection, and study duration. This study is intended for estimating the effect of WBV intervention on neuromuscular control outcomes. Study results may provide evidence to support the beneficial effects of WBV exercise on the physical performance and neuromuscular control of individuals with KOA to fill the research gap on the efficacy of WBV. Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ID: ChiCTR-IOR-16009234 . Registered on 21 September 2016.

Work-family balance by women GP specialist trainees in Slovenia: a qualitative study.

PubMed

Petek, Davorina; Gajsek, Tadeja; Petek Ster, Marija

2016-01-28

Women physicians face many challenges while balancing their many roles: doctor, specialist trainee, mother and partner. The most opportune biological time for a woman to start a family coincides with a great deal of demands and requirements at work. In this study we explored the options and capabilities of women GP specialist trainees in coordinating their family and career. This is a phenomenological qualitative research. Ten GP specialist trainees from urban and rural areas were chosen by the purposive sampling technique, and semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted, recorded, transcribed and analysed by using thematic analysis process. Open coding and the book of codes were formed. Finally, we performed the process of code reduction by identifying the themes, which were compared, interpreted and organised in the highest analytical units--categories. One hundred fifty-five codes were identified in the analysis, which were grouped together into eleven themes. The identified themes are: types, causes and consequences of burdens, work as pleasure and positive attitude toward self, priorities, planning and help, and understanding of superiors, disburdening and changing in specialisation. The themes were grouped into four large categories: burdens, empowerment, coordination and needs for improvement. Women specialist trainees encounter intense burdens at work and home due to numerous demands and requirements during their specialisation training. In addition, there is also the issue of the work-family conflict. There are many consequences regarding burden and strain; however, burnout stands out the most. In contrast, reconciliation of work and family life and needs can be successful. The key element is empowerment of women doctors. The foremost necessary systemic solution is the reinforcement of general practitioners in primary health care and their understanding of the specialisation training scheme with more flexible possibilities for time adaptations of specialist training.

Is different better? Models of teaching and their influence on the net financial outcome for general practice teaching posts

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background In Australia, training for general practice (GP) occurs within private practices and their involvement in teaching can have significant financial costs. At the same time there are growing demands for clinical places for all disciplines and for GP there is concern that there are insufficient teaching practices to meet the demand at the medical student, prevocational and vocational training levels. One option to address this may be to change how teaching occurs in the practice. A question that arises in posing such an option is whether different models of teaching change the costs for a teaching practice. The aim of this study is to determine the net financial outcome of teaching models in private GP. Methods Modelling the financial implications for a range of teaching options using a costing framework developed from a survey of teaching practices in South Australia. Each option was compared with the traditional model of teaching where one GP supervisor is singularly responsible for one learner. The main outcome measure was net financial outcome per week. Decisions on the model cost parameters were made by the study's Steering Group which comprised of experienced GP supervisors. Four teaching models are presented. Model 1 investigates the gains from teaching multiple same level learners, Models 2 and 3, the benefits of vertically integrated teaching using different permutations, and Model 4 the concept of a GP teacher who undertakes all the teaching. Results There was a significant increase in net benefits of Aus$547 per week (95% confidence intervals $459, $668) to the practice when a GP taught two same level learners (Model 1) and when a senior registrar participated in teaching a prevocational doctor (Model 3, Aus$263, 95% confidence intervals $80, $570). For Model 2, a practice could significantly reduce the loss if a registrar was involved in vertically integrated teaching which included the training of a medical student (Aus$551, 95% confidence intervals $419, $718). The GP teacher model resulted in a net remuneration of Aus$207,335 per year, sourced predominantly from the GP teacher activities, with no loss to the practice. Conclusions Our study costed teaching options that can maximise the financial outcomes from teaching. The inclusion of GP registrars in the teaching model or the supervisor teaching more than one same level learner results in a greater financial benefit. This gain was achieved through a reduction in supervisor teaching time and the sharing of administrative and teaching activities with GP registrars. We also show that a GP teacher who carries a minimal patient load can be a sustainable option for a practice. Further, the costing framework used for the teaching models presented in this study has the ability to be applied to any number of teaching model permutations. PMID:21749692

Space Operations Center system analysis study extension. Volume 2: Programmatics and cost

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1982-01-01

A summary of Space Operations Center (SOC) orbital space station costs, program options and program recommendations is presented. Program structure, hardware commonality, schedules and program phasing are considered. Program options are analyzed with respect to mission needs, design and technology options, and anticipated funding constraints. Design and system options are discussed.

Scope Complexity Options Risks Excursions (SCORE) Version 3.0 Mathematical Description.

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

Gearhart, Jared Lee; Samberson, Jonell Nicole; Shettigar, Subhasini

The purpose of the Scope, Complexity, Options, Risks, Excursions (SCORE) model is to estimate the relative complexity of design variants of future warhead options. The results of this model allow those considering these options to understand the complexity tradeoffs between proposed warhead options. The core idea of SCORE is to divide a warhead option into a well- defined set of scope elements and then estimate the complexity of each scope element against a well understood reference system. The uncertainty associated with estimates can also be captured. A weighted summation of the relative complexity of each scope element is used tomore » determine the total complexity of the proposed warhead option or portions of the warhead option (i.e., a National Work Breakdown Structure code). The SCORE analysis process is a growing multi-organizational Nuclear Security Enterprise (NSE) effort, under the management of the NA- 12 led Enterprise Modeling and Analysis Consortium (EMAC), that has provided the data elicitation, integration and computation needed to support the out-year Life Extension Program (LEP) cost estimates included in the Stockpile Stewardship Management Plan (SSMP).« less

Assessment of a New Procedure to Prevent Timeout Escape in Preschoolers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McNeil, Cheryl Bodiford; And Others

1994-01-01

Many agencies provide parent training to groups for whom spanking as a response to timeout escape is not an option. An alternative was developed, the "two-chair hold" technique, which showed some success in decreasing timeout escape and improving overall behavior. Discusses clinical issues regarding use of this technique. (LKS)

States Seek High School Pathways Weaving Academic, Career Options

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sawchuk, Stephen

2013-01-01

Every student at Wheeling High School takes a full academic courseload. Many of the graduates of this 2,000-student school in Wheeling, Illinois, however, also emerge with significant experience in a career field. Those interested in health careers, for example, can work with student-athletes in the school's athletic training facility, earn a…

The Use of 3D Virtual Learning Environments in Training Foreign Language Pre-Service Teachers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Can, Tuncer; Simsek, Irfan

2015-01-01

The recent developments in computer and Internet technologies and in three dimensional modelling necessitates the new approaches and methods in the education field and brings new opportunities to the higher education. The Internet and virtual learning environments have changed the learning opportunities by diversifying the learning options not…

Career Field Experience: A Look at On-site Usage by High School Communication Class.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kaye, Thomas

The career field experience program at a midwestern high school places broadcasting students on location for observation of the profession and optional job training or work. In addition to radio and television stations, field locations include advertising agencies with production studios, corporate production facilities, recording studios, cable…

45 CFR 1356.68 - Tribal title IV-E agency requirements for in-kind administrative and training contributions from...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... Regulations Relating to Public Welfare (Continued) OFFICE OF HUMAN DEVELOPMENT SERVICES, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES THE ADMINISTRATION ON CHILDREN, YOUTH AND FAMILIES, FOSTER CARE MAINTENANCE... third-party sources. (a) Option to claim in-kind expenditures from third-party sources for non-Federal...

45 CFR 1356.68 - Tribal title IV-E agency requirements for in-kind administrative and training contributions from...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... Regulations Relating to Public Welfare (Continued) OFFICE OF HUMAN DEVELOPMENT SERVICES, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES THE ADMINISTRATION ON CHILDREN, YOUTH AND FAMILIES, FOSTER CARE MAINTENANCE... third-party sources. (a) Option to claim in-kind expenditures from third-party sources for non-Federal...

45 CFR 1356.68 - Tribal title IV-E agency requirements for in-kind administrative and training contributions from...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... Regulations Relating to Public Welfare (Continued) OFFICE OF HUMAN DEVELOPMENT SERVICES, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES THE ADMINISTRATION ON CHILDREN, YOUTH AND FAMILIES, FOSTER CARE MAINTENANCE... third-party sources. (a) Option to claim in-kind expenditures from third-party sources for non-Federal...

The Effectiveness of Group Treatment for Female Adult Incest Survivors

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brown, Donalee; Reyes, Sonia; Brown, Brienne; Gonzenbach, Meredith

2013-01-01

Very few clinicians receive training in the treatment of sexual abuse, yet during their careers many will encounter victims of sexual abuse. This article discusses the incidence of child sexual abuse, defines incest, and discusses treatment options. A review of group treatment is explored, with results being documented providing support for the…

Preparing Globally Competent Teachers: Indo-German Perspectives on Teacher Training

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Darji, Brijesh B.; Lang-Wojtasik, Gregor

2014-01-01

Globalization has an immense effect on education. Education relies on the teacher and the process by which teachers are developed. In this context, the expectations of teacher role and options for teacher preparation today have key roles to play in educating children to become responsible citizens of increasingly multicultural societies and active…

Evaluability Assessment Thesis and Dissertation Studies in Graduate Professional Degree Programs

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Walser, Tamara M.; Trevisan, Michael S.

2016-01-01

Evaluability assessment (EA) has potential as a design option for thesis and dissertation studies, serving as a practical training experience for both technical and nontechnical evaluation skills. Based on a content review of a sample of EA theses and dissertations from graduate professional degree programs, the authors of this article found that…

Adult Basic Skills and the Kansas Workforce. Executive Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Krider, Charles E.; And Others

This report considers the basic skills levels of adults in Kansas, the provision of basic skills training by public and private agencies, and policy options for improving the basic skills of Kansas's workforce. Following a detailed executive report, chapter 1 reviews the workforce challenge, economic and technological changes, and shifts in…

Are South African Geography Education Students Ready for Problem-Based Learning?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Golightly, Aubrey; Muniz, Osvaldo A.

2013-01-01

Problem-based learning (PBL) is one of the possible training strategies that could be more fully implemented in the South African formal education system. The intention to migrate from teacher-centred to learner-centred instructions in higher education institutions and schools makes PBL a plausible option. Geography education students might be…

Social Service Aide Project. Summary Reports and Proposals.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago, IL. Career Options Research and Development (CORD).

The Social Service Aide Project for the training and education of paraprofessionals is a part of the Career Options Research and Development Project of the Young Men's Christian Association of Chicago. These materials include: (1) "A Report of Pilot A Social Service Aide Program: Phase I and II (September 1969-August 1970)," (2)…

Options in Education Transcript: Program No. 135: "Learning To Be an American."

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

George Washington Univ., Washington, DC. Inst. for Educational Leadership.

The transcript from a National Public Radio program discusses the school as a training ground for citizenship. Comments by professional and academic persons are interspersed with opinions of White House tourists. A short introductory definition of citizenship provides the framework for the ensuing discussion. After an assessment of citizenship…

POWER: Providing Options for the Workplace, Education and Rehabilitation. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rickard, Patricia L.

This final report describes activities and accomplishments of a 3-year federally supported project that provided 326 students, ages 18-21, with developmental disabilities employment training through five community colleges and three K-12 system adult education systems. Program sites were in California, Iowa, Ohio, and North Carolina. The program…

The Guide to Career Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lederer, Muriel

The book is an effort to provide information that will increase the number of options open to post-high school students seeking specialized or advanced training via vocational or technical programs. It explores the many alternatives other than a four-year college or university. The author states, "The time is coming, if not already here, when…

Telework as an Employment Option for People with Disabilities.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Murray, Barbara; Kenny, Sean

1990-01-01

This feasibility study examined 11 teleworking arrangements for people with severe physical disabilities in Ireland, over periods ranging from 6 to 18 months. Outcomes suggest teleworking is a feasible form of employment for such persons provided they are appropriately selected and trained and suitable work is identified and managed by employers.…

Trends in Teacher Preparation Curricula in Canada.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Channon, Geraldine

A 1969-70 questionnaire survey of 35 of the 40 English-speaking teacher education institutions in Canada attempted to determine trends toward certain types of innovation. Positive trends: The total training periods have been lengthened. Programs have become more flexible and offer a wider choice of options. There is a trend toward adoption of an…

Instructional Design as Knowledge Management: A Knowledge-in-Practice Approach to Choosing Instructional Methods

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McIver, Derrick; Fitzsimmons, Stacey; Flanagan, David

2016-01-01

Decisions about instructional methods are becoming more complex, with options ranging from problem sets to experiential service-learning projects. However, instructors not trained in instructional design may make these important decisions based on convenience, comfort, or trends. Instead, this article draws on the knowledge management literature…

Preparing for High Technology: Robotics Programs. Research & Development Series No. 233.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ashley, William; And Others

This guide is one of three developed to provide guidelines, information, and resources useful in planning and developing postsecondary technician training programs in high technology. It is specifically intended for program planners and developers in the initial stages of planning a new program or specialized option in robotics. (Two companion…

Hippity Hops Velcroed to the Floor and Other Strategies to Educate Kids with FAS or FAE.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wescott, Siobhan

1991-01-01

Children with fetal alcohol syndrome may exhibit hyperactivity, hypersensitivity to touch, attention deficit disorder, stimulus overload, or an overtrusting nature. Educational strategies include consistent routines, multisensory cues to prompt memory, problem-solving training to recognize options, and emphasis on social skills and daily living…

Don't Get Left Behind: Moving Library Instruction Online

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hillman, Christina R.; Sabourin, Katie

2016-01-01

With the growing number of online courses and programs across the higher education spectrum, the need to train faculty to effectively design and deliver online courses has become essential to many institutions. However, many professional development options do not include information or support in order to transition the same library services and…

The Changing Roles and Contributions of Campus Diversity Offices and Their Influence on Campus Culture

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Suarez, Carmen; Anderson, Myron R.; Young, Kathryn S.

2018-01-01

Higher education has struggled to include and support students, faculty, and staff from underrepresented and marginalized groups. In recent years, universities have decided to address these struggles explicitly, using a variety of different approaches to better support these groups from mandatory trainings to optional events, from external audits…

Higher Education Standards Panel: Consultation on the Transparency of Higher Education Admissions Processes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Australian Government Department of Education and Training, 2016

2016-01-01

This document is the result of the Australian Minister for Education and Training's request to the Higher Education Standards Panel for advisement of options to improve the transparency of higher education student admission policies, while minimizing regulatory impact. The Minister intends to improve the accessibility and comparability of…

California Policy Options to Accelerate Latino Student Success in Higher Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Santiago, Deborah A.

2006-01-01

California policy makers and institutional leaders are making critical policy, programmatic, and budgetary decisions affecting segments of the state's population that lack sufficient levels of formal training and education. These decisions are occurring at a time when five critical trends are converging in the state. These trends are: (1)…

Online Professional Development Conferences: An Effective, Economical and Eco-Friendly Option

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Anderson, Lynn; Anderson, Terry

2009-01-01

In order to stay current within their field, many professionals regularly attend conferences and training events in distant locales. Travel to these conferences costs professionals, and their sponsor organizations, both time and money. In the past the benefits afforded by these conferences, and the lack of comparable alternatives, have provided…

Travel and Tourism Industry: Program Options for City College of San Francisco.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

City Coll. of San Francisco, CA.

In an effort to determine the current occupational outlook and resulting implications for education and training, the City College of San Francisco (CCSF), in California, undertook a study of current trends in the travel and tourism industry. This report provides findings from the project, which involved consultation with local and national…

The experience of psychiatry training in rural NSW.

PubMed

Nash, Louise; Hickie, Catherine; Clark, Scott; Karageorge, Aspasia; Kelly, Patrick J; Earle, Maree

2014-10-01

To examine the experience of psychiatry training in rural New South Wales. All rural trainees in New South Wales and key psychiatrists involved in their training were invited to complete a survey in May-July 2013. Responses were received from 26 out of 44 rurally placed psychiatry trainees (57% response rate) and 37 out of 55 psychiatrists involved in training in a rural area (67% response rate). Positive and negative aspects of rural training were reported. In general, trainees reported positive experiences regarding supervision, consultant input and their Site Coordinator of training. Their experience of other aspects of training and education in rural areas was often negative with 52% of trainees feeling at a disadvantage due to fewer registrar peers and 60% feeling educationally isolated. Difficulty progressing through training, workforce shortages, difficulty accessing formal aspects of training and limited options for advanced training were reported. Metropolitan trainees on rotation to rural terms receive accommodation, travel and an increase in wage from the rural Local Health District. Rural trainees on rotation to the city for their mandatory subspecialty training receive no such support. There are many challenges for rural trainees. Support from the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists and state and federal governments to enhance the rural training experience is vital. © The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists 2014.

Family practice residents aren't getting enough training in reproductive health care.

PubMed

1997-10-17

Most doctors who graduate from family practice programs in the US receive little or no clinical training in reproductive health care, according to a study published in the September/October issue of Family Planning Perspectives. Researchers report that the majority of respondents to a 1995 survey of program directors and chief residents at 244 family medicine residency programs in the US reported they had no clinical experience in cervical cap fitting, diaphragm fitting, or IUD insertion and removal. What's more, only 15% of chief residents had gained clinical experience providing first-trimester abortions before graduating, despite the fact that 29% of programs included the training as either optional or routine. Only 5% of residents surveyed answered "yes" when asked whether they would "certainly" or "probably" provide abortions in their future practices. 65% responded that they "certainly would not" provide abortions. The study also found that residents who attended a program in which abortion training was offered were more likely to have a favorable attitude toward abortion training and services. full text

A visual graphic/haptic rendering model for hysteroscopic procedures.

PubMed

Lim, Fabian; Brown, Ian; McColl, Ryan; Seligman, Cory; Alsaraira, Amer

2006-03-01

Hysteroscopy is an extensively popular option in evaluating and treating women with infertility. The procedure utilises an endoscope, inserted through the vagina and cervix to examine the intra-uterine cavity via a monitor. The difficulty of hysteroscopy from the surgeon's perspective is the visual spatial perception of interpreting 3D images on a 2D monitor, and the associated psychomotor skills in overcoming the fulcrum-effect. Despite the widespread use of this procedure, current qualified hysteroscopy surgeons have not been trained the fundamentals through an organised curriculum. The emergence of virtual reality as an educational tool for this procedure, and for other endoscopic procedures, has undoubtedly raised interests. The ultimate objective is for the inclusion of virtual reality training as a mandatory component for gynaecologic endoscopy training. Part of this process involves the design of a simulator, encompassing the technical difficulties and complications associated with the procedure. The proposed research examines fundamental hysteroscopy factors, current training and accreditation, and proposes a hysteroscopic simulator design that is suitable for educating and training.

SEATSAT programs option analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Luckl, L.

1976-01-01

A preliminary analysis of the costs of SEASAT follow-on options is presented. All the options assume the existence of SEASAT-A as currently defined in the SEASAT Economic Assessment. It is assumed that each option will continue through the year 2000 and approach operational system status in the 1983-1986 period, depending upon the sensor package selected. The launch vehicle assumed through 1983 is the Atlas Agena. After 1983, it is assumed SEASAT-A will switch to the use of the Space Shuttle. All cost estimates are 1976 dollars for fiscal year cost accounting, with no inflation rate included.

Promoting ergonomics in Algeria: activities of "the research and training laboratory" in the University of Oran.

PubMed

Mebarki, Bouhafs; El-Bachir, Tebboune Cheikh

2012-01-01

The growing need in Algeria to develop ergonomics knowledge and practice in industry was behind the initiative to develop a training and research project within the ergonomics laboratory at Oran University. Since 2005 the laboratory team is running an academic option master in work design and ergonomics. The evaluation of the academic master in 2010 revealed the acute need of the local industry for professional competences in ergonomic and work psychology. A professional training master program in "ergonomics & work psychology" was then developed in partnership with local industry, five European Universities and six Universities from three Maghreb countries. Research projects were initiated around the two training programs, in conjunction with a number of ergonomics dissemination and promotion activities. Preliminary results of the project are presented and discussed in relation to the local context, and in the light of similar cases in Industrially Developing Countries.

Preparation of physical therapists to work with handicapped infants and their families: current status and training needs.

PubMed

Cochrane, C G; Farley, B G; Wilhelm, I J

1990-06-01

The purposes of this study were to determine the current status of physical therapists' preparation to work with handicapped and at-risk infants and their families and to identify needs for infant- and family-focused training materials and curricula. Results of a telephone survey of 73 physical therapy programs and a follow-up mail survey of 14 physical therapy programs with infancy specialization options are presented. Students in entry-level programs and postprofessional master's degree programs with infancy specializations commonly received instruction in infancy-related topics. Many students received minimal or no exposure to family-related content. Family assessment and intervention were identified as the areas of highest priority for development of training materials and curricula. The results of this study provide direction for the design of infant- and family-focused training materials and curricula in physical therapy.

Medical Training Issues and Skill Mix for Exploration Missions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Janney, R. P.; Armstrong, C. W.; Stepaniak, P. C.; Billica, Roger (Technical Monitor)

2000-01-01

The approach for treating in-flight medical events during exploration-class missions must reflect the need for an autonomous crew, and cannot be compared to current space flight therapeutic protocols. An exploration mission exposes the crew to periods of galactic cosmic radiation, isolation, confinement, and microgravity deconditioning far exceeding the low-Earth orbital missions performed to date. In addition, exploration crews will not be able to return to Earth at the onset of a medical event and will need to control the situation in-flight. Medical consultations with Earth-based physicians will be delayed as much as 40 minutes, dictating the need for a highly-trained medical team on board. This presentation will address the mix of crew medical skills and the training required for crew health care providers for missions beyond low-Earth orbit. Both low- and high-risk options for medical skill mix and preflight training will be compared.

Electrophysiologic Assessment of Auditory Training Benefits in Older Adults

PubMed Central

Anderson, Samira; Jenkins, Kimberly

2015-01-01

Older adults often exhibit speech perception deficits in difficult listening environments. At present, hearing aids or cochlear implants are the main options for therapeutic remediation; however, they only address audibility and do not compensate for central processing changes that may accompany aging and hearing loss or declines in cognitive function. It is unknown whether long-term hearing aid or cochlear implant use can restore changes in central encoding of temporal and spectral components of speech or improve cognitive function. Therefore, consideration should be given to auditory/cognitive training that targets auditory processing and cognitive declines, taking advantage of the plastic nature of the central auditory system. The demonstration of treatment efficacy is an important component of any training strategy. Electrophysiologic measures can be used to assess training-related benefits. This article will review the evidence for neuroplasticity in the auditory system and the use of evoked potentials to document treatment efficacy. PMID:27587912

Impact of mental health training on village health workers regarding clinical depression in rural India.

PubMed

Paudel, Shreedhar; Gilles, Nadege; Hahn, Sigrid; Hexom, Braden; Premkumar, Ramaswamy; Arole, Shobha; Katz, Craig

2014-05-01

Village health worker (VHW) programs are known to be effective means of promoting health of communities. Comprehensive rural health project in India recently trained VHWs to identify, refer, and help people with mental health issues. This study evaluated knowledge, attitude, and behavior of VHWs regarding depression. Cluster sampling was used including all 36 VHWs trained in mental health. Among these, 24 were available and willing to participate in the study. Five FGDs were conducted among 24 VHWs, and the results were analyzed qualitatively. Four out of five groups were able to diagnose the presented case correctly as depression. VHWs were able to identify many symptoms and to suggest management options for depression. They showed supportive and empathetic attitudes towards depressed patients. VHWs are likely to be useful at identifying and assisting people with depression in the communities with lack of adequate resources provided they receive ongoing training and supervision.

The influence of different training schedules on the learning of psychomotor skills for endoscopic surgery.

PubMed

Verdaasdonk, E G G; Stassen, L P S; van Wijk, R P J; Dankelman, J

2007-02-01

Psychomotor skills for endoscopic surgery can be trained with virtual reality simulators. Distributed training is more effective than massed training, but it is unclear whether distributed training over several days is more effective than distributed training within 1 day. This study aimed to determine which of these two options is the most effective for training endoscopic psychomotor skills. Students with no endoscopic experience were randomly assigned either to distributed training on 3 consecutive days (group A, n = 10) or distributed training within 1 day (group B, n = 10). For this study the SIMENDO virtual reality simulator for endoscopic skills was used. The training involved 12 repetitions of three different exercises (drop balls, needle manipulation, 30 degree endoscope) in differently distributed training schedules. All the participants performed a posttraining test (posttest) for the trained tasks 7 days after the training. The parameters measured were time, nontarget environment collisions, and instrument path length. There were no significant differences between the groups in the first training session for all the parameters. In the posttest, group A (training over several days) performed 18.7% faster than group B (training on 1 day) (p = 0.013). The collision and path length scores for group A did not differ significantly from the scores for group B. The distributed group trained over several days was faster, with the same number of errors and the same instrument path length used. Psychomotor skill training for endoscopic surgery distributed over several days is superior to training on 1 day.

Options for Online Undergraduate Courses in Biology at American Colleges and Universities

PubMed Central

Varty, Alison K.

2016-01-01

I aimed to document the online undergraduate course supply in biology to evaluate how well biology educators are serving the diverse and growing population of online students. I documented online biology course offerings in the 2015–2016 academic year at 96 American colleges and universities. I quantified differences in variety, extent, and availability of courses offered by different kinds of academic institutions and characterized 149 online biology courses offered. Although there was no relationship between an institution’s enrollment size and any measure of its online biology offerings, I found significantly more online biology course options at 2-year public compared with 4-year public and 4-year private schools. Courses offered for nonmajors, including students pursuing healthcare-related degrees, were three times as common as those intended for biology majors, who were more likely to be offered hybrid courses with face-to-face laboratories. These data indicate some deficiencies in online biology course options; options for students majoring in biology are limited at all types of institutions examined with a minority of 4-year institutions having any online options in biology. Significant investment of institutional resources in faculty training and technological support are necessary to develop online biology courses that will benefit a larger student population. PMID:27856546

Using Option Grids: steps toward shared decision-making for neonatal circumcision.

PubMed

Fay, Mary; Grande, Stuart W; Donnelly, Kyla; Elwyn, Glyn

2016-02-01

To assess the impact, acceptability and feasibility of a short encounter tool designed to enhance the process of shared decision-making and parental engagement. We analyzed video-recordings of clinical encounters, half undertaken before and half after a brief intervention that trained four clinicians how to use Option Grids, using an observer-based measure of shared decision-making. We also analyzed semi-structured interviews conducted with the clinicians four weeks after their exposure to the intervention. Observer OPTION(5) scores were higher at post-intervention, with a mean of 33.9 (SD=23.5) compared to a mean of 16.1 (SD=7.1) for pre-intervention, a significant difference of 17.8 (95% CI: 2.4, 33.2). Prior to using the intervention, clinicians used a consent document to frame circumcision as a default practice. Encounters with the Option Grid conferred agency to both parents and clinicians, and facilitated shared decision-making. Clinician reported recognizing the tool's positive effect on their communication process. Tools such as Option Grids have the potential to make it easier for clinicians to achieve shared decision-making. Encounter tools have the potential to change practice. More research is needed to test their feasibility in routine practice. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Towards Using Microstate-Neurofeedback for the Treatment of Psychotic Symptoms in Schizophrenia. A Feasibility Study in Healthy Participants.

PubMed

Diaz Hernandez, Laura; Rieger, Kathryn; Baenninger, Anja; Brandeis, Daniel; Koenig, Thomas

2016-03-01

Spontaneous EEG signal can be parsed into sub-second periods of stable functional states (microstates) that assumingly correspond to brief large scale synchronization events. In schizophrenia, a specific class of microstate (class "D") has been found to be shorter than in healthy controls and to be correlated with positive symptoms. To explore potential new treatment options in schizophrenia, we tested in healthy controls if neurofeedback training to self-regulate microstate D presence is feasible and what learning patterns are observed. Twenty subjects underwent EEG-neurofeedback training to up-regulate microstate D presence. The protocol included 20 training sessions, consisting of baseline trials (resting state), regulation trials with auditory feedback contingent on microstate D presence, and a transfer trial. Response to neurofeedback was assessed with mixed effects modelling. All participants increased the percentage of time spent producing microstate D in at least one of the three conditions (p < 0.05). Significant between-subjects across-sessions results showed an increase of 0.42 % of time spent producing microstate D in baseline (reflecting a sustained change in the resting state), 1.93 % of increase during regulation and 1.83 % during transfer. Within-session analysis (performed in baseline and regulation trials only) showed a significant 1.65 % increase in baseline and 0.53 % increase in regulation. These values are in a range that is expected to have an impact upon psychotic experiences. Additionally, we found a negative correlation between alpha power and microstate D contribution during neurofeedback training. Given that microstate D has been related to attentional processes, this result provides further evidence that the training was to some degree specific for the attentional network. We conclude that microstate-neurofeedback training proved feasible in healthy subjects. The implementation of the same protocol in schizophrenia patients may promote skills useful to reduce positive symptoms by means of EEG-neurofeedback.

The effects of a free-weight-based resistance training intervention on pain, squat biomechanics and MRI-defined lumbar fat infiltration and functional cross-sectional area in those with chronic low back

PubMed Central

Moran, Kieran; Antony, Joseph; Richter, Chris; Marshall, Brendan; Coyle, Joe; Falvey, Eanna; Franklyn-Miller, Andrew

2015-01-01

Background Low back pain is one of the most prevalent musculoskeletal conditions in the world. Many exercise treatment options exist but few interventions have utilised free-weight resistance training. To investigate the effects of a free-weight-based resistance training intervention on pain and lumbar fat infiltration in those with chronic low back pain. Methods Thirty participants entered the study, 11 females (age=39.6±12.4 years, height=164 cm±5.3 cm, body mass=70.9±8.2 kg,) and 19 males (age=39.7±9.7 years, height=179±5.9 cm, body mass=86.6±15.9 kg). A 16-week, progressive, free-weight-based resistance training intervention was used. Participants completed three training sessions per week. Participants completed a Visual Analogue Pain Scale, Oswestry Disability Index and Euro-Qol V2 quality of life measure at baseline and every 4 weeks throughout the study. Three-dimensional kinematic and kinetic measures were used for biomechanical analysis of a bodyweight squat movement. Maximum strength was measured using an isometric mid-thigh pull, and lumbar paraspinal endurance was measured using a Biering-Sorensen test. Lumbar paraspinal fat infiltration was measured preintervention and postintervention using MRIs. Results Postintervention pain, disability and quality of life were all significantly improved. In addition, there was a significant reduction in fat infiltration at the L3L4 and L4L5 levels and increase in lumbar extension time to exhaustion of 18%. Conclusions A free-weight-based resistance training intervention can be successfully utilised to improve pain, disability and quality of life in those with low back pain. PMID:27900136

17 CFR 39.15 - Treatment of funds.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... members and customers; (J) An analysis of the ability of the derivatives clearing organization to manage a... the criteria that would be used to define eligible futures, options, and swaps; (B) Analysis of the...) Analysis of the liquidity of the respective markets for the futures, options, and swaps that would be...

17 CFR 39.15 - Treatment of funds.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... members and customers; (J) An analysis of the ability of the derivatives clearing organization to manage a... the criteria that would be used to define eligible futures, options, and swaps; (B) Analysis of the...) Analysis of the liquidity of the respective markets for the futures, options, and swaps that would be...

17 CFR 39.15 - Treatment of funds.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... members and customers; (J) An analysis of the ability of the derivatives clearing organization to manage a... the criteria that would be used to define eligible futures, options, and swaps; (B) Analysis of the...) Analysis of the liquidity of the respective markets for the futures, options, and swaps that would be...

Comparison of formula and number-right scoring in undergraduate medical training: a Rasch model analysis.

PubMed

Cecilio-Fernandes, Dario; Medema, Harro; Collares, Carlos Fernando; Schuwirth, Lambert; Cohen-Schotanus, Janke; Tio, René A

2017-11-09

Progress testing is an assessment tool used to periodically assess all students at the end-of-curriculum level. Because students cannot know everything, it is important that they recognize their lack of knowledge. For that reason, the formula-scoring method has usually been used. However, where partial knowledge needs to be taken into account, the number-right scoring method is used. Research comparing both methods has yielded conflicting results. As far as we know, in all these studies, Classical Test Theory or Generalizability Theory was used to analyze the data. In contrast to these studies, we will explore the use of the Rasch model to compare both methods. A 2 × 2 crossover design was used in a study where 298 students from four medical schools participated. A sample of 200 previously used questions from the progress tests was selected. The data were analyzed using the Rasch model, which provides fit parameters, reliability coefficients, and response option analysis. The fit parameters were in the optimal interval ranging from 0.50 to 1.50, and the means were around 1.00. The person and item reliability coefficients were higher in the number-right condition than in the formula-scoring condition. The response option analysis showed that the majority of dysfunctional items emerged in the formula-scoring condition. The findings of this study support the use of number-right scoring over formula scoring. Rasch model analyses showed that tests with number-right scoring have better psychometric properties than formula scoring. However, choosing the appropriate scoring method should depend not only on psychometric properties but also on self-directed test-taking strategies and metacognitive skills.

Economic analysis of emerald ash borer (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) management options.

PubMed

Vannatta, A R; Hauer, R H; Schuettpelz, N M

2012-02-01

Emerald ash borer, Agrilus planipennis (Fairmaire) (Coleoptera: Buprestidae), plays a significant role in the health and extent of management of native North American ash species in urban forests. An economic analysis of management options was performed to aid decision makers in preparing for likely future infestations. Separate ash tree population valuations were derived from the i-Tree Streets program and the Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers (CTLA) methodology. A relative economic analysis was used to compare a control option (do-nothing approach, only removing ash trees as they die) to three distinct management options: 1) preemptive removal of all ash trees over a 5 yr period, 2) preemptive removal of all ash trees and replacement with comparable nonash trees, or 3) treating the entire population of ash trees with insecticides to minimize mortality. For each valuation and management option, an annual analysis was performed for both the remaining ash tree population and those lost to emerald ash borer. Retention of ash trees using insecticide treatments typically retained greater urban forest value, followed by doing nothing (control), which was better than preemptive removal and replacement. Preemptive removal without tree replacement, which was the least expensive management option, also provided the lowest net urban forest value over the 20-yr simulation. A "no emerald ash borer" scenario was modeled to further serve as a benchmark for each management option and provide a level of economic justification for regulatory programs aimed at slowing the movement of emerald ash borer.

High-intensity interval training for improving postprandial hyperglycemia.

PubMed

Little, Jonathan P; Francois, Monique E

2014-12-01

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) has garnered attention in recent years as a time-efficient exercise option for improving cardiovascular and metabolic health. New research demonstrates that HIIT may be particularly effective for improving postprandial hyperglycemia in individuals with, or at risk for, type 2 diabetes (T2D). These findings have clinical relevance because elevated postprandial hyperglycemia is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. This article summarizes the latest evidence demonstrating that HIIT can improve postprandial glucose control to highlight the potential application of HIIT in the prevention and management of T2D and associated cardiovascular complications.

[Medical specialization in Chile. A centralized vision].

PubMed

Clouet-Huerta, Diego E; González, Bárbara; Correa, Katherine

2017-11-01

Medical graduates face different postgraduate training options, but their priority is to obtain a primary medical specialty, defined as a specialty that does not derive from other. There are different specialty training programs in Chile, which can be dependent or independent of the Ministry of Health. The information about these programs is available in different Internet sites. However a centralized information service that groups and synthetize these programs is lacking, hampering graduate choice decisions. This article aims to review all specialization program modalities, providing a general vision of the institutional structure and implications that govern the specialization process in Chile.

Testing the limits of optimality: the effect of base rates in the Monty Hall dilemma.

PubMed

Herbranson, Walter T; Wang, Shanglun

2014-03-01

The Monty Hall dilemma is a probability puzzle in which a player tries to guess which of three doors conceals a desirable prize. After an initial selection, one of the nonchosen doors is opened, revealing that it is not a winner, and the player is given the choice of staying with the initial selection or switching to the other remaining door. Pigeons and humans were tested on two variants of the Monty Hall dilemma, in which one of the three doors had either a higher or a lower chance of containing the prize than did the other two options. The optimal strategy in both cases was to initially choose the lowest-probability door available and then switch away from it. Whereas pigeons learned to approximate the optimal strategy, humans failed to do so on both accounts: They did not show a preference for low-probability options, and they did not consistently switch. An analysis of performance over the course of training indicated that pigeons learned to perform a sequence of responses on each trial, and that sequence was one that yielded the highest possible rate of reinforcement. Humans, in contrast, continued to vary their responses throughout the experiment, possibly in search of a more complex strategy that would exceed the maximum possible win rate.

SVM-Prot 2016: A Web-Server for Machine Learning Prediction of Protein Functional Families from Sequence Irrespective of Similarity.

PubMed

Li, Ying Hong; Xu, Jing Yu; Tao, Lin; Li, Xiao Feng; Li, Shuang; Zeng, Xian; Chen, Shang Ying; Zhang, Peng; Qin, Chu; Zhang, Cheng; Chen, Zhe; Zhu, Feng; Chen, Yu Zong

2016-01-01

Knowledge of protein function is important for biological, medical and therapeutic studies, but many proteins are still unknown in function. There is a need for more improved functional prediction methods. Our SVM-Prot web-server employed a machine learning method for predicting protein functional families from protein sequences irrespective of similarity, which complemented those similarity-based and other methods in predicting diverse classes of proteins including the distantly-related proteins and homologous proteins of different functions. Since its publication in 2003, we made major improvements to SVM-Prot with (1) expanded coverage from 54 to 192 functional families, (2) more diverse protein descriptors protein representation, (3) improved predictive performances due to the use of more enriched training datasets and more variety of protein descriptors, (4) newly integrated BLAST analysis option for assessing proteins in the SVM-Prot predicted functional families that were similar in sequence to a query protein, and (5) newly added batch submission option for supporting the classification of multiple proteins. Moreover, 2 more machine learning approaches, K nearest neighbor and probabilistic neural networks, were added for facilitating collective assessment of protein functions by multiple methods. SVM-Prot can be accessed at http://bidd2.nus.edu.sg/cgi-bin/svmprot/svmprot.cgi.

Student peer teaching in paediatric simulation training is a feasible low-cost alternative for education.

PubMed

Wagner, Michael; Mileder, Lukas P; Goeral, Katharina; Klebermass-Schrehof, Katrin; Cardona, Francesco S; Berger, Angelika; Schmölzer, Georg M; Olischar, Monika

2017-06-01

The World Health Organization recommends regular simulation training to prevent adverse healthcare events. We used specially trained medical students to provide paediatric simulation training to their peers and assessed feasibility, cost and confidence of students who attended the courses. Students at the Medical University of Vienna, Austria were eligible to participate. Students attended two high-fidelity simulation training sessions, delivered by peers, which were videorecorded for evaluation. The attendees then completed questionnaires before and after the training. Associated costs and potential benefits were analysed. From May 2013 to June 2015, 152 students attended the sessions and 57 (37.5%) completed both questionnaires. Satisfaction was high, with 95% stating their peer tutor was competent and 90% saying that peer tutors were well prepared. The attendees' confidence in treating critically ill children significantly improved after training (p < 0.001). The average costs for a peer tutor were six Euros per working hour, compared to 35 Euros for a physician. Using peer tutors for paediatric simulation training was a feasible and low-cost option that increased the number of medical students who could be trained and increased the self-confidence of the attendees. Satisfaction with the peer tutors was high. ©2017 Foundation Acta Paediatrica. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Why, When, and How to Take into Account the Uncertainty Involved in Career Decisions.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gati, Itamar

1990-01-01

Theoretically analyzes career decisions under uncertainty, when career decision maker ranks options rather than choosing best one. Found that how decisions were framed affected ranking of options and quality of decisions. Analysis showed that the rank order of options in optimal ranking always coincided with the rank order of the options by their…

Analysis of potential water-supply management options, 2010-60, and documentation of revisions to the model of the Irwin Basin Aquifer System, Fort Irwin National Training Center, California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Voronin, Lois M.; Densmore, Jill N.; Martin, Peter

2014-01-01

The Fort Irwin National Training Center is considering several alternatives to manage their limited water-supply sources in the Irwin Basin. An existing three-dimensional, finite-difference groundwater-flow model—the U.S. Geological Survey’s MODFLOW—of the aquifer system in the basin was updated and the initial input dataset was supplemented with groundwater withdrawal data for the period 2000–10. The updated model was then used to simulate four combinations, or scenarios, of groundwater withdrawal and recharge over the next 50 years (January 2011 through December 2060). The scenarios included combinations of continuing withdrawals from currently active production wells, supplementing any increases in demand with withdrawals from an inactive production well, reducing withdrawal amounts and rates, and reducing the discharge of treated wastewater to infiltration ponds that provide a recharge source to the underlying aquifer. Results of the simulations indicated that, depending on the scenario implemented, groundwater levels would rise (over the next 50 years) from 40 feet to as much as 65 feet in the northwestern part of the Irwin Basin, and from 5 feet to 10 feet in the southeastern part.

Heating value prediction for combustible fraction of municipal solid waste in Semarang using backpropagation neural network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khuriati, Ainie; Setiabudi, Wahyu; Nur, Muhammad; Istadi, Istadi

2015-12-01

Backpropgation neural network was trained to predict of combustible fraction heating value of MSW from the physical composition. Waste-to-Energy (WtE) is a viable option for municipal solid waste (MSW) management. The influence of the heating value of municipal solid waste (MSW) is very important on the implementation of WtE systems. As MSW is heterogeneous material, direct heating value measurements are often not feasible. In this study an empirical model was developed to describe the heating value of the combustible fraction of municipal solid waste as a function of its physical composition of MSW using backpropagation neural network. Sampling process was carried out at Jatibarang landfill. The weight of each sorting sample taken from each discharged MSW vehicle load is 100 kg. The MSW physical components were grouped into paper wastes, absorbent hygiene product waste, styrofoam waste, HD plastic waste, plastic waste, rubber waste, textile waste, wood waste, yard wastes, kitchen waste, coco waste, and miscellaneous combustible waste. Network was trained by 24 datasets with 1200, 769, and 210 epochs. The results of this analysis showed that the correlation from the physical composition is better than multiple regression method .

Residency hospital type and career paths in Japan: an analysis of physician registration cohorts.

PubMed

Koike, Soichi; Kodama, Tomoko; Matsumoto, Shinya; Ide, Hiroo; Yasunaga, Hideo; Imamura, Tomoaki

2010-01-01

In 2004, a new postgraduate medical training system was introduced in Japan and a shift of new graduates from university hospitals to other postgraduate education hospitals happened. The aim of this study is to analyse the past trends on postgraduate medical education choices and subsequent career options to discuss possible outcomes of the current shift and policy implications. Data from the national physician survey from 1976 to 2006 were analysed. The proportion change of physicians started their career in university hospitals was calculated. The career paths for physicians by different residency type were presented. More than 90% of physicians experienced university hospital work at least once in their 20-year careers. In their first 10 years of their career, physicians who started their residency in a university hospital tended to spend more years working in university hospitals, and those who started in other post-graduate training hospitals tended to spend less in university hospitals. Then, these groups presented quite similar patterns in their career choices. University hospitals need to strengthen their function as continuing education and career development centres and to adopt a less paternalistic approach, as fewer residents start their career in university hospitals.

Laparoscopic surgical box model training for surgical trainees with no prior laparoscopic experience.

PubMed

Nagendran, Myura; Toon, Clare D; Davidson, Brian R; Gurusamy, Kurinchi Selvan

2014-01-17

Surgical training has traditionally been one of apprenticeship, where the surgical trainee learns to perform surgery under the supervision of a trained surgeon. This is time consuming, costly, and of variable effectiveness. Training using a box model physical simulator - either a video box or a mirrored box - is an option to supplement standard training. However, the impact of this modality on trainees with no prior laparoscopic experience is unknown. To compare the benefits and harms of box model training versus no training, another box model, animal model, or cadaveric model training for surgical trainees with no prior laparoscopic experience. We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Science Citation Index Expanded to May 2013. We included all randomised clinical trials comparing box model trainers versus no training in surgical trainees with no prior laparoscopic experience. We also included trials comparing different methods of box model training. Two authors independently identified trials and collected data. We analysed the data with both the fixed-effect and the random-effects models using Review Manager for analysis. For each outcome, we calculated the standardised mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) based on intention-to-treat analysis whenever possible. Twenty-five trials contributed data to the quantitative synthesis in this review. All but one trial were at high risk of bias. Overall, 16 trials (464 participants) provided data for meta-analysis of box training (248 participants) versus no supplementary training (216 participants). All the 16 trials in this comparison used video trainers. Overall, 14 trials (382 participants) provided data for quantitative comparison of different methods of box training. There were no trials comparing box model training versus animal model or cadaveric model training. Box model training versus no training: The meta-analysis showed that the time taken for task completion was significantly shorter in the box trainer group than the control group (8 trials; 249 participants; SMD -0.48 seconds; 95% CI -0.74 to -0.22). Compared with the control group, the box trainer group also had lower error score (3 trials; 69 participants; SMD -0.69; 95% CI -1.21 to -0.17), better accuracy score (3 trials; 73 participants; SMD 0.67; 95% CI 0.18 to 1.17), and better composite performance scores (SMD 0.65; 95% CI 0.42 to 0.88). Three trials reported movement distance but could not be meta-analysed as they were not in a format for meta-analysis. There was significantly lower movement distance in the box model training compared with no training in one trial, and there were no significant differences in the movement distance between the two groups in the other two trials. None of the remaining secondary outcomes such as mortality and morbidity were reported in the trials when animal models were used for assessment of training, error in movements, and trainee satisfaction. Different methods of box training: One trial (36 participants) found significantly shorter time taken to complete the task when box training was performed using a simple cardboard box trainer compared with the standard pelvic trainer (SMD -3.79 seconds; 95% CI -4.92 to -2.65). There was no significant difference in the time taken to complete the task in the remaining three comparisons (reverse alignment versus forward alignment box training; box trainer suturing versus box trainer drills; and single incision versus multiport box model training). There were no significant differences in the error score between the two groups in any of the comparisons (box trainer suturing versus box trainer drills; single incision versus multiport box model training; Z-maze box training versus U-maze box training). The only trial that reported accuracy score found significantly higher accuracy score with Z-maze box training than U-maze box training (1 trial; 16 participants; SMD 1.55; 95% CI 0.39 to 2.71). One trial (36 participants) found significantly higher composite score with simple cardboard box trainer compared with conventional pelvic trainer (SMD 0.87; 95% CI 0.19 to 1.56). Another trial (22 participants) found significantly higher composite score with reverse alignment compared with forward alignment box training (SMD 1.82; 95% CI 0.79 to 2.84). There were no significant differences in the composite score between the intervention and control groups in any of the remaining comparisons. None of the secondary outcomes were adequately reported in the trials. The results of this review are threatened by both risks of systematic errors (bias) and risks of random errors (play of chance). Laparoscopic box model training appears to improve technical skills compared with no training in trainees with no previous laparoscopic experience. The impacts of this decreased time on patients and healthcare funders in terms of improved outcomes or decreased costs are unknown. There appears to be no significant differences in the improvement of technical skills between different methods of box model training. Further well-designed trials of low risk of bias and random errors are necessary. Such trials should assess the impacts of box model training on surgical skills in both the short and long term, as well as clinical outcomes when the trainee becomes competent to operate on patients.

NEW TRAINING PARADIGM IN THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE LeRoy Spayd Chief, Training Division NOAA/National Weather Service Silver Spring, Maryland

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Spayd, L. E.

2012-12-01

The National Weather Service (NWS) implemented a new Learning Management System (LMS) in June 2007 as part of a Department of Commerce (DOC)-wide Learning Center (CLC). One of the key goals of this LMS was to provide accessible, low-cost training to develop and sustain a world-class NOAA workforce. Five years of training records have been analyzed for trends and accomplishments have been summarized. The NWS leads the entire DOC in usage of this LMS. NWS workforce of 4500 employees complete over 50,000 courses per year and account for over 40% of DOC completions even though the NWS represents only 12% of the users. This paper will highlight the lessons learned in implementing training in a diverse and widespread organization. The paper will also highlight the critical role of management engagement in setting expectations for training and education which resulted in service improvements to the public. This paper also address future training trends as the NWS moves forward in implementing NOAA's Strategic Plan to make this country a WeatherReady Nation. A mix of how synchronous/asynchronous and classroom/on-line/hybrid learning options is explained.;

A primer on medical education in the United States through the lens of a current resident physician.

PubMed

Mowery, Yvonne M

2015-10-01

Physician training and standards for medical licensure differ widely across the globe. The medical education process in the United States (US) typically involves a minimum of 11 years of formal training and multiple standardized examinations between graduating from secondary school and becoming an attending physician with full medical licensure. Students in the US traditionally enter a 4-year medical school after completing an undergraduate bachelor's degree, in contrast to most other countries where medical training begins after graduation from high school. Medical school seniors planning to practice medicine in the US must complete postgraduate clinical training, referred to as residency, within the specialty of their choosing. The duration of residency varies depending on specialty, typically lasting between 3 and 7 years. For subspecialty fields, additional clinical training is often required in the form of a fellowship. Many experts have called for changes in the medical education system to shorten medical training in the US, and reforms are ongoing in some institutions. However, physician education in the US generally remains a progression from undergraduate premedical coursework to 4 years of medical school, followed by residency training with an optional subspecialty fellowship.

A primer on medical education in the United States through the lens of a current resident physician

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

Physician training and standards for medical licensure differ widely across the globe. The medical education process in the United States (US) typically involves a minimum of 11 years of formal training and multiple standardized examinations between graduating from secondary school and becoming an attending physician with full medical licensure. Students in the US traditionally enter a 4-year medical school after completing an undergraduate bachelor’s degree, in contrast to most other countries where medical training begins after graduation from high school. Medical school seniors planning to practice medicine in the US must complete postgraduate clinical training, referred to as residency, within the specialty of their choosing. The duration of residency varies depending on specialty, typically lasting between 3 and 7 years. For subspecialty fields, additional clinical training is often required in the form of a fellowship. Many experts have called for changes in the medical education system to shorten medical training in the US, and reforms are ongoing in some institutions. However, physician education in the US generally remains a progression from undergraduate premedical coursework to 4 years of medical school, followed by residency training with an optional subspecialty fellowship. PMID:26623123

A primer on medical education in the United States through the lens of a current resident physician

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

Physician training and standards for medical licensure differ widely across the globe. The medical education process in the United States (US) typically involves a minimum of 11 years of formal training and multiple standardized examinations between graduating from secondary school and becoming an attending physician with full medical licensure. Students in the US traditionally enter a 4-year medical school after completing an undergraduate bachelor’s degree, in contrast to most other countries where medical training begins after graduation from high school. Medical school seniors planning to practice medicine in the US must complete postgraduate clinical training, referred to as residency, within the specialty of their choosing. The duration of residency varies depending on specialty, typically lasting between 3 and 7 years. For subspecialty fields, additional clinical training is often required in the form of a fellowship. Many experts have called for changes in the medical education system to shorten medical training in the US, and reforms are ongoing in some institutions. However, physician education in the US generally remains a progression from undergraduate premedical coursework to 4 years of medical school, followed by residency training with an optional subspecialty fellowship. PMID:26605316

The Effects of Home-Based Cognitive Training on Verbal Working Memory and Language Comprehension in Older Adulthood

PubMed Central

Payne, Brennan R.; Stine-Morrow, Elizabeth A. L.

2017-01-01

Effective language understanding is crucial to maintaining cognitive abilities and learning new information through adulthood. However, age-related declines in working memory (WM) have a robust negative influence on multiple aspects of language comprehension and use, potentially limiting communicative competence. In the current study (N = 41), we examined the effects of a novel home-based computerized cognitive training program targeting verbal WM on changes in verbal WM and language comprehension in healthy older adults relative to an active component-control group. Participants in the WM training group showed non-linear improvements in performance on trained verbal WM tasks. Relative to the active control group, WM training participants also showed improvements on untrained verbal WM tasks and selective improvements across untrained dimensions of language, including sentence memory, verbal fluency, and comprehension of syntactically ambiguous sentences. Though the current study is preliminary in nature, it does provide initial promising evidence that WM training may influence components of language comprehension in adulthood and suggests that home-based training of WM may be a viable option for probing the scope and limits of cognitive plasticity in older adults. PMID:28848421

The Effects of Home-Based Cognitive Training on Verbal Working Memory and Language Comprehension in Older Adulthood.

PubMed

Payne, Brennan R; Stine-Morrow, Elizabeth A L

2017-01-01

Effective language understanding is crucial to maintaining cognitive abilities and learning new information through adulthood. However, age-related declines in working memory (WM) have a robust negative influence on multiple aspects of language comprehension and use, potentially limiting communicative competence. In the current study ( N = 41), we examined the effects of a novel home-based computerized cognitive training program targeting verbal WM on changes in verbal WM and language comprehension in healthy older adults relative to an active component-control group. Participants in the WM training group showed non-linear improvements in performance on trained verbal WM tasks. Relative to the active control group, WM training participants also showed improvements on untrained verbal WM tasks and selective improvements across untrained dimensions of language, including sentence memory, verbal fluency, and comprehension of syntactically ambiguous sentences. Though the current study is preliminary in nature, it does provide initial promising evidence that WM training may influence components of language comprehension in adulthood and suggests that home-based training of WM may be a viable option for probing the scope and limits of cognitive plasticity in older adults.

76 FR 33798 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; C2 Options Exchange, Incorporated; Order Instituting Proceedings...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-06-09

..., open interest, and trading patterns. The analysis would examine trading in the proposed option product... overall stability of the markets.\\57\\ \\57\\ Data and analysis on p.m. settlement of index derivatives is... parties, including relevant data and analysis, on the issues presented by the proposed rule change. In...

Effect of radiance-to-reflectance transformation and atmosphere removal on maximum likelihood classification accuracy of high-dimensional remote sensing data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hoffbeck, Joseph P.; Landgrebe, David A.

1994-01-01

Many analysis algorithms for high-dimensional remote sensing data require that the remotely sensed radiance spectra be transformed to approximate reflectance to allow comparison with a library of laboratory reflectance spectra. In maximum likelihood classification, however, the remotely sensed spectra are compared to training samples, thus a transformation to reflectance may or may not be helpful. The effect of several radiance-to-reflectance transformations on maximum likelihood classification accuracy is investigated in this paper. We show that the empirical line approach, LOWTRAN7, flat-field correction, single spectrum method, and internal average reflectance are all non-singular affine transformations, and that non-singular affine transformations have no effect on discriminant analysis feature extraction and maximum likelihood classification accuracy. (An affine transformation is a linear transformation with an optional offset.) Since the Atmosphere Removal Program (ATREM) and the log residue method are not affine transformations, experiments with Airborne Visible/Infrared Imaging Spectrometer (AVIRIS) data were conducted to determine the effect of these transformations on maximum likelihood classification accuracy. The average classification accuracy of the data transformed by ATREM and the log residue method was slightly less than the accuracy of the original radiance data. Since the radiance-to-reflectance transformations allow direct comparison of remotely sensed spectra with laboratory reflectance spectra, they can be quite useful in labeling the training samples required by maximum likelihood classification, but these transformations have only a slight effect or no effect at all on discriminant analysis and maximum likelihood classification accuracy.

Automating annotation of information-giving for analysis of clinical conversation.

PubMed

Mayfield, Elijah; Laws, M Barton; Wilson, Ira B; Penstein Rosé, Carolyn

2014-02-01

Coding of clinical communication for fine-grained features such as speech acts has produced a substantial literature. However, annotation by humans is laborious and expensive, limiting application of these methods. We aimed to show that through machine learning, computers could code certain categories of speech acts with sufficient reliability to make useful distinctions among clinical encounters. The data were transcripts of 415 routine outpatient visits of HIV patients which had previously been coded for speech acts using the Generalized Medical Interaction Analysis System (GMIAS); 50 had also been coded for larger scale features using the Comprehensive Analysis of the Structure of Encounters System (CASES). We aggregated selected speech acts into information-giving and requesting, then trained the machine to automatically annotate using logistic regression classification. We evaluated reliability by per-speech act accuracy. We used multiple regression to predict patient reports of communication quality from post-visit surveys using the patient and provider information-giving to information-requesting ratio (briefly, information-giving ratio) and patient gender. Automated coding produces moderate reliability with human coding (accuracy 71.2%, κ=0.57), with high correlation between machine and human prediction of the information-giving ratio (r=0.96). The regression significantly predicted four of five patient-reported measures of communication quality (r=0.263-0.344). The information-giving ratio is a useful and intuitive measure for predicting patient perception of provider-patient communication quality. These predictions can be made with automated annotation, which is a practical option for studying large collections of clinical encounters with objectivity, consistency, and low cost, providing greater opportunity for training and reflection for care providers.

Training Attention Improves Decision Making in Individuals with Elevated Self-Reported Depressive Symptoms

PubMed Central

Cooper, Jessica A.; Gorlick, Marissa A.; Denny, Taylor; Worthy, Darrell A.; Beevers, Christopher G.; Maddox, W. Todd

2013-01-01

Depression is often characterized by attentional biases toward negative items and away from positive items, which likely affects reward and punishment processing. Recent work reported that training attention away from negative stimuli reduced this bias and reduced depressive symptoms. However, the effect of attention training on subsequent learning has yet to be explored. In the current study, participants were required to learn to maximize reward during decision-making. Undergraduates with elevated self-reported depressive symptoms received attention training toward positive stimuli prior to performing the decision-making task (n=20; active training). The active training group was compared to two groups: undergraduates with elevated self-reported depressive symptoms who received placebo training (n=22; placebo training) and control subjects with low levels of depressive symptoms (n=33; non-depressive control). The placebo-training depressive group performed worse and switched between options more than non-depressive controls on the reward maximization task. However, depressives that received active training performed as well as non-depressive controls. Computational modeling indicated that the placebo-trained group learned more from negative than from positive prediction errors, leading to more frequent switching. The non-depressive control and active training depressive groups showed similar learning from positive and negative prediction errors, leading to less frequent switching and better performance. Our results indicate that individuals with elevated depressive symptoms are impaired at reward maximization, but that the deficit can be improved with attention training toward positive stimuli. PMID:24197612

Training attention improves decision making in individuals with elevated self-reported depressive symptoms.

PubMed

Cooper, Jessica A; Gorlick, Marissa A; Denny, Taylor; Worthy, Darrell A; Beevers, Christopher G; Maddox, W Todd

2014-06-01

Depression is often characterized by attentional biases toward negative items and away from positive items, which likely affects reward and punishment processing. Recent work has reported that training attention away from negative stimuli reduced this bias and reduced depressive symptoms. However, the effect of attention training on subsequent learning has yet to be explored. In the present study, participants were required to learn to maximize reward during decision making. Undergraduates with elevated self-reported depressive symptoms received attention training toward positive stimuli prior to performing the decision-making task (n = 20; active training). The active-training group was compared to two other groups: undergraduates with elevated self-reported depressive symptoms who received placebo training (n = 22; placebo training) and a control group with low levels of depressive symptoms (n = 33; nondepressive control). The placebo-training depressive group performed worse and switched between options more than did the nondepressive controls on the reward maximization task. However, depressives that received active training performed as well as the nondepressive controls. Computational modeling indicated that the placebo-trained group learned more from negative than from positive prediction errors, leading to more frequent switching. The nondepressive control and active-training depressive groups showed similar learning from positive and negative prediction errors, leading to less-frequent switching and better performance. Our results indicate that individuals with elevated depressive symptoms are impaired at reward maximization, but that the deficit can be improved with attention training toward positive stimuli.

Space station data system analysis/architecture study. Task 2: Options development, DR-5. Volume 3: Programmatic options

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1985-01-01

Task 2 in the Space Station Data System (SSDS) Analysis/Architecture Study is the development of an information base that will support the conduct of trade studies and provide sufficient data to make design/programmatic decisions. This volume identifies the preferred options in the programmatic category and characterizes these options with respect to performance attributes, constraints, costs, and risks. The programmatic category includes methods used to administrate/manage the development, operation and maintenance of the SSDS. The specific areas discussed include standardization/commonality; systems management; and systems development, including hardware procurement, software development and system integration, test and verification.

Impact of the Career Explorers Program on High School Students' Perceptions of the Pharmacy Profession

PubMed Central

Stensland, Sheri L.; Warholak, Terri L.; Mattingly, Lisa

2008-01-01

Objective To determine the effect of a 5-week Career Explorers Program (CEP) on high school students' perceptions of pharmacists' characteristics, duties, and training. Methods A 16-item survey instrument with attitudinal, frequency, and relative quantity response options was completed by all CEP students on the first and last day of the program. The survey assessed students' attitudes concerning pharmacist characteristics, duties, and training. Results All students who participated in the CEP in 2003 completed the survey instrument (n = 50). Seventy percent of respondents' answers to the attitudinal subscale questions significantly changed from preassessment to postassessment. Conclusion A 5-week CEP provided high school students with more realistic perceptions of pharmacists' roles, duties, and training before the students entered the pharmacy program. PMID:18698385

Labor force planning issues for allied health in Australia.

PubMed

Smith, C S; Crowley, S

1995-01-01

The aim of this paper is to discuss labor force planning issues for allied health professionals in Australia. Health system reform and changes in the demand for health labor, combined with key characteristics of the professions, will have a profound influence on future needs for career development of allied health professionals. Key issues include the increasing need for allied health professionals to undertake business management and public health training, the growing trend of multiskilling versus specialization, and the need for the professions to diversify their skill base to ensure a range of career options in a changing health care system. The challenge for allied health professions is to improve tools of analysis in relation to labor force planning and to systematically investigate various factors influencing labor force supply and demand, on both a short-term and long-term basis.

A Kramers-Moyal approach to the analysis of third-order noise with applications in option valuation.

PubMed

Popescu, Dan M; Lipan, Ovidiu

2015-01-01

We propose the use of the Kramers-Moyal expansion in the analysis of third-order noise. In particular, we show how the approach can be applied in the theoretical study of option valuation. Despite Pawula's theorem, which states that a truncated model may exhibit poor statistical properties, we show that for a third-order Kramers-Moyal truncation model of an option's and its underlier's price, important properties emerge: (i) the option price can be written in a closed analytical form that involves the Airy function, (ii) the price is a positive function for positive skewness in the distribution, (iii) for negative skewness, the price becomes negative only for price values that are close to zero. Moreover, using third-order noise in option valuation reveals additional properties: (iv) the inconsistencies between two popular option pricing approaches (using a "delta-hedged" portfolio and using an option replicating portfolio) that are otherwise equivalent up to the second moment, (v) the ability to develop a measure R of how accurately an option can be replicated by a mixture of the underlying stocks and cash, (vi) further limitations of second-order models revealed by introducing third-order noise.