Measuring Principal Performance: How Rigorous Are Commonly Used Principal Performance Assessment Instruments? A Quality School Leadership Issue Brief

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Condon, Christopher; Clifford, Matthew

2010-01-01

This brief reviews the publicly available principal assessments and points superintendents and policy makers toward strong instruments to measure principal performance. Specifically, the measures included in this review are expressly intended to evaluate principal performance and have varying degrees of publicly available evidence of psychometric…

Health Plan Performance Measurement within Medicare Subvention.

DTIC Science & Technology

1998-06-01

the causes of poor performance (Siren & Laffel, 1996). Although outcomes measures such as nosocomial infection rates, admission rates for select...defined. Traditional outcomes measures include infection rates, morbidity, and mortality. The problem with these traditional measures is... Maternal /Child Care Indicators Nursing Staffing Indicators Outcome Indicators Technical Outcomes Plan Performance Stability of Health Plan

Perkins Core Performance Measures Results and Targets, 2000-2001.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McHewitt, Earl R.; Taylor, Garry

This is a report on 2000-2001 Perkins III core performance standards and measures for the Virginia Community College System (VCCS). Perkins performance measure definitions for the system were finalized with the Virginia and federal departments of education in fall 2000. Core indicators include: (1) student attainment, which measures academic and…

Handbook of recommended practices for the determination of liquid monopropellant rocket engine performance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bjorklund, R. A.; Rogero, R. S.; Baerwald, R. K.

1979-01-01

The design, installation, and operation of systems to be used for directly measuring quantities of fundamental importance to the determination of monopropellant thruster performance is described. Areas covered include: (1) force and impulse measurement; (2) propellant mass usage and flow measurement; (3) pressure measurement; (4) temperature measurement; (5) exhaust gas composition measurement; and (6) data reduction and performance determination.

Modeling the performance of direct-detection Doppler lidar systems including cloud and solar background variability.

PubMed

McGill, M J; Hart, W D; McKay, J A; Spinhirne, J D

1999-10-20

Previous modeling of the performance of spaceborne direct-detection Doppler lidar systems assumed extremely idealized atmospheric models. Here we develop a technique for modeling the performance of these systems in a more realistic atmosphere, based on actual airborne lidar observations. The resulting atmospheric model contains cloud and aerosol variability that is absent in other simulations of spaceborne Doppler lidar instruments. To produce a realistic simulation of daytime performance, we include solar radiance values that are based on actual measurements and are allowed to vary as the viewing scene changes. Simulations are performed for two types of direct-detection Doppler lidar system: the double-edge and the multichannel techniques. Both systems were optimized to measure winds from Rayleigh backscatter at 355 nm. Simulations show that the measurement uncertainty during daytime is degraded by only approximately 10-20% compared with nighttime performance, provided that a proper solar filter is included in the instrument design.

Research Frontiers in Public Sector Performance Measurement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhonghua, Cai; Ye, Wang

In "New Public Management" era, performance measurement has been widely used in managerial practices of public sectors. From the content and features of performance measurement, this paper aims to explore inspirations on Chinese public sector performance measurement, which based on a review of prior literatures including influencial factors, methods and indicators of public sector performance evaluation. In the end, arguments are presented in this paper pointed out the direction of future researches in this field.

Measurement properties of performance-based measures to assess physical function in hip and knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review.

PubMed

Dobson, F; Hinman, R S; Hall, M; Terwee, C B; Roos, E M; Bennell, K L

2012-12-01

To systematically review the measurement properties of performance-based measures to assess physical function in people with hip and/or knee osteoarthritis (OA). Electronic searches were performed in MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, and PsycINFO up to the end of June 2012. Two reviewers independently rated measurement properties using the consensus-based standards for the selection of health status measurement instrument (COSMIN). "Best evidence synthesis" was made using COSMIN outcomes and the quality of findings. Twenty-four out of 1792 publications were eligible for inclusion. Twenty-one performance-based measures were evaluated including 15 single-activity measures and six multi-activity measures. Measurement properties evaluated included internal consistency (three measures), reliability (16 measures), measurement error (14 measures), validity (nine measures), responsiveness (12 measures) and interpretability (three measures). A positive rating was given to only 16% of possible measurement ratings. Evidence for the majority of measurement properties of tests reported in the review has yet to be determined. On balance of the limited evidence, the 40 m self-paced test was the best rated walk test, the 30 s-chair stand test and timed up and go test were the best rated sit to stand tests, and the Stratford battery, Physical Activity Restrictions and Functional Assessment System were the best rated multi-activity measures. Further good quality research investigating measurement properties of performance measures, including responsiveness and interpretability in people with hip and/or knee OA, is needed. Consensus on which combination of measures will best assess physical function in people with hip/and or knee OA is urgently required. Crown Copyright © 2012. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

45 CFR 2522.520 - What special terms are used in this subpart?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... their reading scores to grade-level, or other specific measures of academic achievement. (g) Grantee includes subgrantees, programs, and projects. (h) National performance measures are performance measures...

45 CFR 2522.520 - What special terms are used in this subpart?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... their reading scores to grade-level, or other specific measures of academic achievement. (g) Grantee includes subgrantees, programs, and projects. (h) National performance measures are performance measures...

Intensification of the Learning Process: Gross Motor Performance Scale. A Series of Reports Designed for Classroom Use.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bucks County Public Schools, Doylestown, PA.

The Gross Motor Performance Screening Test was designed to aid the classroom teacher in obtaining specific information about the child's physical abilities. The test includes items which have been found to measure the various factors of physical fitness. It also includes items to measure skills important to the child and adult. Included also are…

Performance measures and criteria for hydrologic and water quality models

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Performance measures and criteria are essential for model calibration and validation. This presentation will include a summary of one of the papers that will be included in the 2014 Hydrologic and Water Quality Model Calibration & Validation Guidelines Special Collection of the ASABE Transactions. T...

Perkins Core Performance Measures: Results and Targets, 1999-2000.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McHewitt, Earl R.; Taylor, Garry

This document describes the Virginia Community College System (VCCS) Core Indicators for the Perkins III Core Performance Standards and Measures. Core indicators and measures include: (1) student attainment, measured by academic and technical skills; (2) completion, measured by graduation rate; (3) placement and persistence, measured by placement,…

Errors in laboratory medicine: practical lessons to improve patient safety.

PubMed

Howanitz, Peter J

2005-10-01

Patient safety is influenced by the frequency and seriousness of errors that occur in the health care system. Error rates in laboratory practices are collected routinely for a variety of performance measures in all clinical pathology laboratories in the United States, but a list of critical performance measures has not yet been recommended. The most extensive databases describing error rates in pathology were developed and are maintained by the College of American Pathologists (CAP). These databases include the CAP's Q-Probes and Q-Tracks programs, which provide information on error rates from more than 130 interlaboratory studies. To define critical performance measures in laboratory medicine, describe error rates of these measures, and provide suggestions to decrease these errors, thereby ultimately improving patient safety. A review of experiences from Q-Probes and Q-Tracks studies supplemented with other studies cited in the literature. Q-Probes studies are carried out as time-limited studies lasting 1 to 4 months and have been conducted since 1989. In contrast, Q-Tracks investigations are ongoing studies performed on a yearly basis and have been conducted only since 1998. Participants from institutions throughout the world simultaneously conducted these studies according to specified scientific designs. The CAP has collected and summarized data for participants about these performance measures, including the significance of errors, the magnitude of error rates, tactics for error reduction, and willingness to implement each of these performance measures. A list of recommended performance measures, the frequency of errors when these performance measures were studied, and suggestions to improve patient safety by reducing these errors. Error rates for preanalytic and postanalytic performance measures were higher than for analytic measures. Eight performance measures were identified, including customer satisfaction, test turnaround times, patient identification, specimen acceptability, proficiency testing, critical value reporting, blood product wastage, and blood culture contamination. Error rate benchmarks for these performance measures were cited and recommendations for improving patient safety presented. Not only has each of the 8 performance measures proven practical, useful, and important for patient care, taken together, they also fulfill regulatory requirements. All laboratories should consider implementing these performance measures and standardizing their own scientific designs, data analysis, and error reduction strategies according to findings from these published studies.

Synthesis of work-zone performance measures.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-09-01

The main objective of this synthesis was to identify and summarize how agencies collect, analyze, and report different work-zone : traffic-performance measures, which include exposure, mobility, and safety measures. The researchers also examined comm...

Device Performance Capabilities | Photovoltaic Research | NREL

Science.gov Websites

multijunction cells and modules. We use I-V measurement systems to assess the main performance parameters for PV cells and modules. I-V measurement systems determine the output performance of devices, including: open the device (η). Some I-V systems may also be used to perform dark I-V measurements to determine diode

Developing physician pay arrangements: the cash and care equation.

PubMed

Levitch, J H

1998-11-01

Developing physician compensation packages that help a healthcare organization meet its business objectives while satisfying physician pay expectations requires new ways of linking pay to physician performance. Such compensation arrangements specifically should include pay tied to defined performance standards, compensation linked to group performance, performance incentives based on realistic, achievable goals, work performance measured by common criteria, and similar pay ensured for similar work. Final pay arrangements also should include items that are sometimes overlooked, such as fully delineated job responsibilities, performance measures aligned correctly with performance areas, and the value of benefits considered in the cash compensation levels.

Quality of Care for PTSD and Depression in the Military Health System

DTIC Science & Technology

evaluate the receipt of recommended assessments and treatments. These measures draw on multiple data sources including administrative encounter data...services are effective in reducing symptoms. When comparing performance between 20122013 and 20132014, most measures demonstrated slight improvement ...in 20132014 for over 38,000 active-component service members with PTSD or depression. The assessment includes performance on 30 quality measures to

Predicting Document Retrieval System Performance: An Expected Precision Measure.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Losee, Robert M., Jr.

1987-01-01

Describes an expected precision (EP) measure designed to predict document retrieval performance. Highlights include decision theoretic models; precision and recall as measures of system performance; EP graphs; relevance feedback; and computing the retrieval status value of a document for two models, the Binary Independent Model and the Two Poisson…

The role of non-financial performance measures in predicting hospital financial performance: the case of for-profit system hospitals.

PubMed

Vélez-González, Heltie; Pradhan, Rohit; Weech-Maldonado, Robert

2011-01-01

Non-financial measures have found increasing acceptance in the business world--however, their application in the health care industry remains limited. The purpose of this article is to understand the influence of non-financial measures (efficiency, productivity, and quality) on the financial performance of for-profit system hospitals. The sample consists of 499 for-profit system hospitals in the United States from 1999 to 2002. Data analyzed include the American Hospital Association's Annual Survey, Medicare Cost Reports, Joint Commission's quality scores, and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services' Hospital Case Mix Index. Dependent variables consist of financial measures (operating and total margins), while independent variables include measures of efficiency, productivity, and quality. Our results suggest the influence of non-financial performance measures on financial performance; occupancy rate positively influences financial performance while greater labor intensity may have negative implications for financial performance. In addition, we show that quality positively influences financial performance thereby offering a potential business case for quality. This result has important managerial and policy implications as it may incentivize capital and human resource investments required to improve hospital quality of care.

Automatic Information Processing and High Performance Skills: Individual Differences and Mechanisms of Performance Improvement in Search-Detection and Complex Task

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-09-01

abilities is fit along with the autoregressive process. Initially, the influences on search performance of within-group age and sex were included as control...Results: PerformanceLAbility Structure Measurement Model: Ability Structure The correlations between all the ability measures, age, and sex are...subsequent analyses for young adults. Age and sex were included as control variables. There was an age range of 15 years; this range is sufficiently large that

Monitoring and predicting cognitive state and performance via physiological correlates of neuronal signals.

PubMed

Russo, Michael B; Stetz, Melba C; Thomas, Maria L

2005-07-01

Judgment, decision making, and situational awareness are higher-order mental abilities critically important to operational cognitive performance. Higher-order mental abilities rely on intact functioning of multiple brain regions, including the prefrontal, thalamus, and parietal areas. Real-time monitoring of individuals for cognitive performance capacity via an approach based on sampling multiple neurophysiologic signals and integrating those signals with performance prediction models potentially provides a method of supporting warfighters' and commanders' decision making and other operationally relevant mental processes and is consistent with the goals of augmented cognition. Cognitive neurophysiological assessments that directly measure brain function and subsequent cognition include positron emission tomography, functional magnetic resonance imaging, mass spectroscopy, near-infrared spectroscopy, magnetoencephalography, and electroencephalography (EEG); however, most direct measures are not practical to use in operational environments. More practical, albeit indirect measures that are generated by, but removed from the actual neural sources, are movement activity, oculometrics, heart rate, and voice stress signals. The goal of the papers in this section is to describe advances in selected direct and indirect cognitive neurophysiologic monitoring techniques as applied for the ultimate purpose of preventing operational performance failures. These papers present data acquired in a wide variety of environments, including laboratory, simulator, and clinical arenas. The papers discuss cognitive neurophysiologic measures such as digital signal processing wrist-mounted actigraphy; oculometrics including blinks, saccadic eye movements, pupillary movements, the pupil light reflex; and high-frequency EEG. These neurophysiological indices are related to cognitive performance as measured through standard test batteries and simulators with conditions including sleep loss, time on task, and aviation flight-induced fatigue.

Acoustic measurements of a full-scale rotor with four tip shapes. Volume 2: Appendices C, D, E and F

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mosher, M.

1984-01-01

A full scale helicopter with four different blade tip geometries is tested in a 40- by 80-foot wind tunnel. Performance, loads, and noise are measured. The four tip shapes tested were rectangular, tapered, swept, and swept/tapered. The noise data include measurements of the sound pressure levels in decibels dB, decibels adjusted dBA, and tone-corrected PNdB, for all of the conditions tested. Also included are the detailed measurements, 1/3 octave spectra and time histories for some selected data, and plots of dBA as function of test condition. Some performance measurements are included to aid interpretation of the noise data.

Validity and reliability of a novel measure of activity performance and participation.

PubMed

Murgatroyd, Phil; Karimi, Leila

2016-01-01

To develop and evaluate an innovative clinician-rated measure, which produces global numerical ratings of activity performance and participation. Repeated measures study with 48 community-dwelling participants investigating clinical sensibility, comprehensiveness, practicality, inter-rater reliability, responsiveness, sensitivity and concurrent validity with Barthel Index. Important clinimetric characteristics including comprehensiveness and ease of use were rated >8/10 by clinicians. Inter-rater reliability was excellent on the summary scores (intraclass correlation of 0.95-0.98). There was good evidence that the new outcome measure distinguished between known high and low functional scoring groups, including both responsiveness to change and sensitivity at the same time point in numerous tests. Concurrent validity with the Barthel Index was fair to high (Spearman Rank Order Correlation 0.32-0.85, p > 0.05). The new measure's summary scores were nearly twice as responsive to change compared with the Barthel Index. Other more detailed data could also be generated by the new measure. The Activity Performance Measure is an innovative outcome instrument that showed good clinimetric qualities in this initial study. Some of the results were strong, given the sample size, and further trial and evaluation is appropriate. Implications for Rehabilitation The Activity Performance Measure is an innovative outcome measure covering activity performance and participation. In an initial evaluation, it showed good clinimetric qualities including responsiveness to change, sensitivity, practicality, clinical sensibility, item coverage, inter-rater reliability and concurrent validity with the Barthel Index. Further trial and evaluation is appropriate.

Device Performance | Photovoltaic Research | NREL

Science.gov Websites

Device Performance Device Performance PV Calibrations Blog Check out the latest updates from the PV than 190 person-years. Capabilities Our capabilities for measuring key performance parameters of solar cells and modules include the use of various solar simulators and tools to measure current-voltage and

Development of System-level Performance Measures for Evaluation of Models of Care for Inflammatory Arthritis in Canada.

PubMed

Barber, Claire E H; Marshall, Deborah A; Mosher, Dianne P; Akhavan, Pooneh; Tucker, Lori; Houghton, Kristin; Batthish, Michelle; Levy, Deborah M; Schmeling, Heinrike; Ellsworth, Janet; Tibollo, Heidi; Grant, Sean; Khodyakov, Dmitry; Lacaille, Diane

2016-03-01

To develop system-level performance measures for evaluating the care of patients with inflammatory arthritis (IA), including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and juvenile idiopathic arthritis. This study involved several methodological phases. Over multiple rounds, various participants were asked to help define a set of candidate measurement themes. A systematic search was conducted of existing guidelines and measures. A set of 6 performance measures was defined and presented to 50 people, including patients with IA, rheumatologists, allied health professionals, and researchers using a 3-round, online, modified Delphi process. Participants rated the validity, feasibility, relevance, and likelihood of use of the measures. Measures with median ratings ≥ 7 for validity and relevance were included in the final set. Six performance measures were developed evaluating the following aspects of care, with each measure being applied separately for each type of IA except where specified: waiting times for rheumatology consultation for patients with new onset IA, percentage of patients with IA seen by a rheumatologist, percentage of patients with IA seen in yearly followup by a rheumatologist, percentage of patients with RA treated with a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD), time to DMARD therapy in RA, and number of rheumatologists per capita. The first set of system-level performance measures for IA care in Canada has been developed with broad input. The measures focus on timely access to care and initiation of appropriate treatment for patients with IA, and are likely to be of interest to other arthritis care systems internationally.

Transportation planning performance measures : appendices.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2005-10-01

The article is the appendices for Transportation Planning Performance Measures. : Oregon transportation plans, including the statewide Oregon Transportation Plan, and current regional transportation plans for the Portland, Salem, Eugene, and Medford ...

Cognitive load predicts point-of-care ultrasound simulator performance.

PubMed

Aldekhyl, Sara; Cavalcanti, Rodrigo B; Naismith, Laura M

2018-02-01

The ability to maintain good performance with low cognitive load is an important marker of expertise. Incorporating cognitive load measurements in the context of simulation training may help to inform judgements of competence. This exploratory study investigated relationships between demographic markers of expertise, cognitive load measures, and simulator performance in the context of point-of-care ultrasonography. Twenty-nine medical trainees and clinicians at the University of Toronto with a range of clinical ultrasound experience were recruited. Participants answered a demographic questionnaire then used an ultrasound simulator to perform targeted scanning tasks based on clinical vignettes. Participants were scored on their ability to both acquire and interpret ultrasound images. Cognitive load measures included participant self-report, eye-based physiological indices, and behavioural measures. Data were analyzed using a multilevel linear modelling approach, wherein observations were clustered by participants. Experienced participants outperformed novice participants on ultrasound image acquisition. Ultrasound image interpretation was comparable between the two groups. Ultrasound image acquisition performance was predicted by level of training, prior ultrasound training, and cognitive load. There was significant convergence between cognitive load measurement techniques. A marginal model of ultrasound image acquisition performance including prior ultrasound training and cognitive load as fixed effects provided the best overall fit for the observed data. In this proof-of-principle study, the combination of demographic and cognitive load measures provided more sensitive metrics to predict ultrasound simulator performance. Performance assessments which include cognitive load can help differentiate between levels of expertise in simulation environments, and may serve as better predictors of skill transfer to clinical practice.

Measuring the Performance and Intelligence of Systems: Proceedings of the 2002 PerMIS Workshop

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Messina, E. R.; Meystel, A. M.

2002-01-01

Contents include the following: Performance Metrics; Performance of Multiple Agents; Performance of Mobility Systems; Performance of Planning Systems; General Discussion Panel 1; Uncertainty of Representation I; Performance of Robots in Hazardous Domains; Modeling Intelligence; Modeling of Mind; Measuring Intelligence; Grouping: A Core Procedure of Intelligence; Uncertainty in Representation II; Towards Universal Planning/Control Systems.

34 CFR 403.202 - What must each State's system of core standards and measures of performance include?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 34 Education 3 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false What must each State's system of core standards and measures of performance include? 403.202 Section 403.202 Education Regulations of the Offices of the Department of Education (Continued) OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND ADULT EDUCATION, DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION STATE...

34 CFR 403.202 - What must each State's system of core standards and measures of performance include?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 34 Education 3 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false What must each State's system of core standards and measures of performance include? 403.202 Section 403.202 Education Regulations of the Offices of the Department of Education (Continued) OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND ADULT EDUCATION, DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION STATE...

34 CFR 403.202 - What must each State's system of core standards and measures of performance include?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 34 Education 3 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false What must each State's system of core standards and measures of performance include? 403.202 Section 403.202 Education Regulations of the Offices of the Department of Education (Continued) OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND ADULT EDUCATION, DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION STATE...

34 CFR 403.202 - What must each State's system of core standards and measures of performance include?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 34 Education 3 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false What must each State's system of core standards and measures of performance include? 403.202 Section 403.202 Education Regulations of the Offices of the Department of Education (Continued) OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL AND ADULT EDUCATION, DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION STATE...

Final report on fiscal year 1992 activities for the environmental monitors line-loss study

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

Kenoyer, J.L.

The work performed on this Environmental Monitors Line-Loss Study has been performed under Contract Numbers MLW-SVV-073750 and MFH-SVV-207554. Work on the task was initiated mid-December 1991, and this report documents and summarizes the work performed through January 18, 1993. The sections included in this report summarize the work performed on the Environmental Monitors Line-Loss Study. The sections included in this report are arranged to reflect individual sub-tasks and include: descriptions of measurement systems and procedures used to obtain cascade impactor samples and laser spectrometer measurements from multiple stacks and locations; information on data acquisition, analyses, assessment, and software; discussion ofmore » the analyses and measurement results from the cascade impactor and laser spectrometer systems and software used; discussion on the development of general test methods and procedures for line-loss determinations; an overall summary and specific conclusions that can be made with regard to efforts performed on this task during FY 1992 and FY 1993. Supporting information for these sections is included in this report as appendices.« less

Curriculum-Based Measurement, Program Development, Graphing Performance and Increasing Efficiency.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Deno, Stanley L.; And Others

1987-01-01

Four brief articles look at aspects of curriculum based measurement (CBM) for academically handicapped students including procedures of CBM with examples, different approaches to graphing student performance, and solutions to the problem of making time to measure student progress frequently. (DB)

Introduction to basic solar cell measurements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brandhorst, H. W., Jr.

1976-01-01

The basic approaches to solar cell performance and diagnostic measurements are described. The light sources, equipment for I-V curve measurement, and the test conditions and procedures for performance measurement are detailed. Solar cell diagnostic tools discussed include analysis of I-V curves, series resistance and reverse saturation current determination, spectral response/quantum yield measurement, and diffusion length/lifetime determination.

Northeast corridor passenger transportation data study

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1976-08-31

Fourteen measures of performance are recommended for use in Northeast Corridor rail system evaluation and multimodal comparisons. These include performance measures in the categories of system configuration (e.g., daily available-seat miles by vehicl...

Pilot application study of corridor performance indicators

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1998-09-16

The need for effective multimodal performance indicators (or measures) is becoming increasingly important for adequate planning in all sizes of transportation environments, including small and medium-size communities. These measures are essential for...

Influence of Continuing Medical Education on Rheumatologists' Performance on National Quality Measures for Rheumatoid Arthritis.

PubMed

Sapir, Tamar; Rusie, Erica; Greene, Laurence; Yazdany, Jinoos; Robbins, Mark L; Ruderman, Eric M; Carter, Jeffrey D; Patel, Barry; Moreo, Kathleen

2015-12-01

In recent years researchers have reported deficits in the quality of care provided to patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), including low rates of performance on quality measures. We sought to determine the influence of a quality improvement (QI) continuing education program on rheumatologists' performance on national quality measures for RA, along with other measures aligned with National Quality Strategy priorities. Performance was assessed through baseline and post-education chart audits. Twenty community-based rheumatologists across the United States were recruited to participate in the QI education program and chart audits. Charts were retrospectively audited before (n = 160 charts) and after (n = 160 charts) the rheumatologists participated in a series of accredited QI-focused educational activities that included private audit feedback, small-group webinars, and online- and mobile-accessible print and video activities. The charts were audited for patient demographics and the rheumatologists' documented performance on the 6 quality measures for RA included in the Physician Quality Reporting System (PQRS). In addition, charts were abstracted for documentation of patient counseling about medication benefits/risks and adherence, lifestyle modifications, and quality of life; assessment of RA medication side effects; and assessment of RA medication adherence. Mean rates of documented performance on 4 of the 6 PQRS measures for RA were significantly higher in the post-education versus baseline charts (absolute increases ranged from 9 to 24% of patient charts). In addition, after the intervention, significantly higher mean rates were observed for patient counseling about medications and quality of life, and for assessments of medication side effects and adherence (absolute increases ranged from 9 to 40% of patient charts). This pragmatic study provides preliminary evidence for the positive influence of QI-focused education in helping rheumatologists improve performance on national quality measures for RA.

Comparative Effects of Antihistamines on Aircrew Mission Effectiveness under Sustained Operations

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-06-01

measures consist mainly of process measures. Process measures are measures of activities used to accomplish the mission and produce the final results...They include task completion times and response variability, and information processing rates as they relate to unique task assignment. Performance...contains process measures that assess the Individual contributions of hardware/software and human components to overall system performance. Measures

Development of Performance Dashboards in Healthcare Sector: Key Practical Issues.

PubMed

Ghazisaeidi, Marjan; Safdari, Reza; Torabi, Mashallah; Mirzaee, Mahboobeh; Farzi, Jebraeil; Goodini, Azadeh

2015-10-01

Static nature of performance reporting systems in health care sector has resulted in inconsistent, incomparable, time consuming, and static performance reports that are not able to transparently reflect a round picture of performance and effectively support healthcare managers' decision makings. So, the healthcare sector needs interactive performance management tools such as performance dashboards to measure, monitor, and manage performance more effectively. The aim of this article was to identify key issues that need to be addressed for developing high-quality performance dashboards in healthcare sector. A literature review was established to search electronic research databases, e-journals collections, and printed journals, books, dissertations, and theses for relevant articles. The search strategy interchangeably used the terms of "dashboard", "performance measurement system", and "executive information system" with the term of "design" combined with operator "AND". Search results (n=250) were adjusted for duplications, screened based on their abstract relevancy and full-text availability (n=147) and then assessed for eligibility (n=40). Eligible articles were included if they had explicitly focused on dashboards, performance measurement systems or executive information systems design. Finally, 28 relevant articles included in the study. Creating high-quality performance dashboards requires addressing both performance measurement and executive information systems design issues. Covering these two fields, identified contents were categorized to four main domains: KPIs development, Data Sources and data generation, Integration of dashboards to source systems, and Information presentation issues. This study implies the main steps to develop dashboards for the purpose of performance management. Performance dashboards developed on performance measurement and executive information systems principles and supported by proper back-end infrastructure will result in creation of dynamic reports that help healthcare managers to consistently measure the performance, continuously detect outliers, deeply analyze causes of poor performance, and effectively plan for the future.

Operations-oriented performance measures for freeway management systems : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2008-12-01

This report describes the second and final year activities of the project titled Using Operations-Oriented Performance Measures to Support Freeway Management Systems. Work activities included developing a prototype system architecture for testi...

Modeling the Performance of Direct-Detection Doppler Lidar Systems in Real Atmospheres

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McGill, Matthew J.; Hart, William D.; McKay, Jack A.; Spinhirne, James D.

1999-01-01

Previous modeling of the performance of spaceborne direct-detection Doppler lidar systems has assumed extremely idealized atmospheric models. Here we develop a technique for modeling the performance of these systems in a more realistic atmosphere, based on actual airborne lidar observations. The resulting atmospheric model contains cloud and aerosol variability that is absent in other simulations of spaceborne Doppler lidar instruments. To produce a realistic simulation of daytime performance, we include solar radiance values that are based on actual measurements and are allowed to vary as the viewing scene changes. Simulations are performed for two types of direct-detection Doppler lidar systems: the double-edge and the multi-channel techniques. Both systems were optimized to measure winds from Rayleigh backscatter at 355 nm. Simulations show that the measurement uncertainty during daytime is degraded by only about 10-20% compared to nighttime performance, provided a proper solar filter is included in the instrument design.

[Balanced scorecard for performance measurement of a nursing organization in a Korean hospital].

PubMed

Hong, Yoonmi; Hwang, Kyung Ja; Kim, Mi Ja; Park, Chang Gi

2008-02-01

The purpose of this study was to develop a balanced scorecard (BSC) for performance measurement of a Korean hospital nursing organization and to evaluate the validity and reliability of performance measurement indicators. Two hundred fifty-nine nurses in a Korean hospital participated in a survey questionnaire that included 29-item performance evaluation indicators developed by investigators of this study based on the Kaplan and Norton's BSC (1992). Cronbach's alpha was used to test the reliability of the BSC. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis with a structure equation model (SEM) was applied to assess the construct validity of the BSC. Cronbach's alpha of 29 items was .948. Factor analysis of the BSC showed 5 principal components (eigen value >1.0) which explained 62.7% of the total variance, and it included a new one, community service. The SEM analysis results showed that 5 components were significant for the hospital BSC tool. High degree of reliability and validity of this BSC suggests that it may be used for performance measurements of a Korean hospital nursing organization. Future studies may consider including a balanced number of nurse managers and staff nurses in the study. Further data analysis on the relationships among factors is recommended.

Evaluation methodologies for an advanced information processing system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schabowsky, R. S., Jr.; Gai, E.; Walker, B. K.; Lala, J. H.; Motyka, P.

1984-01-01

The system concept and requirements for an Advanced Information Processing System (AIPS) are briefly described, but the emphasis of this paper is on the evaluation methodologies being developed and utilized in the AIPS program. The evaluation tasks include hardware reliability, maintainability and availability, software reliability, performance, and performability. Hardware RMA and software reliability are addressed with Markov modeling techniques. The performance analysis for AIPS is based on queueing theory. Performability is a measure of merit which combines system reliability and performance measures. The probability laws of the performance measures are obtained from the Markov reliability models. Scalar functions of this law such as the mean and variance provide measures of merit in the AIPS performability evaluations.

Laboratory Performance Evaluation Report of SEL 421 Phasor Measurement Unit

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

Huang, Zhenyu; faris, Anthony J.; Martin, Kenneth E.

2007-12-01

PNNL and BPA have been in close collaboration on laboratory performance evaluation of phasor measurement units for over ten years. A series of evaluation tests are designed to confirm accuracy and determine measurement performance under a variety of conditions that may be encountered in actual use. Ultimately the testing conducted should provide parameters that can be used to adjust all measurements to a standardized basis. These tests are performed with a standard relay test set using recorded files of precisely generated test signals. The test set provides test signals at a level and in a format suitable for input tomore » a PMU that accurately reproduces the signals in both signal amplitude and timing. Test set outputs are checked to confirm the accuracy of the output signal. The recorded signals include both current and voltage waveforms and a digital timing track used to relate the PMU measured value with the test signal. Test signals include steady-state waveforms to test amplitude, phase, and frequency accuracy, modulated signals to determine measurement and rejection bands, and step tests to determine timing and response accuracy. Additional tests are included as necessary to fully describe the PMU operation. Testing is done with a BPA phasor data concentrator (PDC) which provides communication support and monitors data input for dropouts and data errors.« less

Structureborne noise measurements on a small twin-engine aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cole, J. E., III; Martini, K. F.

1988-01-01

Structureborne noise measurements performed on a twin-engine aircraft (Beechcraft Baron) are reported. There are two overall objectives of the test program. The first is to obtain data to support the development of analytical models of the wing and fuselage, while the second is to evaluate effects of structural parameters on cabin noise. Measurements performed include structural and acoustic responses to impact excitation, structural and acoustic loss factors, and modal parameters of the wing. Path alterations include added mass to simulate fuel, variations in torque of bolts joining wing and fuselage, and increased acoustic absorption. Conclusions drawn regarding these measurements are presented.

Structureborne noise measurements on a small twin-engine aircraft

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cole, J. E., III; Martini, K. F.

1988-06-01

Structureborne noise measurements performed on a twin-engine aircraft (Beechcraft Baron) are reported. There are two overall objectives of the test program. The first is to obtain data to support the development of analytical models of the wing and fuselage, while the second is to evaluate effects of structural parameters on cabin noise. Measurements performed include structural and acoustic responses to impact excitation, structural and acoustic loss factors, and modal parameters of the wing. Path alterations include added mass to simulate fuel, variations in torque of bolts joining wing and fuselage, and increased acoustic absorption. Conclusions drawn regarding these measurements are presented.

Unique thermocouple to measure the temperatures of squibs, igniters, propellants, and rocket nozzles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nanigian, Jacob; Nanigian, Dan

2006-05-01

The temperatures produced by the various components in the propulsion system of rockets and missiles determine the performance of the rocket. Since these temperatures occur very rapidly and under extreme conditions, standard thermocouples fail before any meaningful temperatures are measured. This paper describes the features of a special family of high performance thermocouples, which can measure these transient temperatures with millisecond response times and under the most severe conditions of erosion. Examples of igniter, propellant and rocket nozzle temperatures are included in this paper. Also included is heat flux measurements made by these sensors in rocket applications.

A Scoping Review of Physical Performance Outcome Measures Used in Exercise Interventions for Older Adults With Alzheimer Disease and Related Dementias.

PubMed

McGough, Ellen L; Lin, Shih-Yin; Belza, Basia; Becofsky, Katie M; Jones, Dina L; Liu, Minhui; Wilcox, Sara; Logsdon, Rebecca G

2017-11-28

There is growing evidence that exercise interventions can mitigate functional decline and reduce fall risk in older adults with Alzheimer disease and related dementias (ADRD). Although physical performance outcome measures have been successfully used in older adults without cognitive impairment, additional research is needed regarding their use with individuals who have ADRD, and who may have difficulty following instructions regarding performance of these measures. The purpose of this scoping review was to identify commonly used physical performance outcome measures, for exercise interventions, that are responsive and reliable in older adults with ADRD. Ultimately, we aimed to provide recommendations regarding the use of outcome measures for individuals with ADRD across several domains of physical performance. A scoping review was conducted to broadly assess physical performance outcome measures used in exercise interventions for older adults with ADRD. Exercise intervention studies that included at least 1 measure of physical performance were included. All physical performance outcome measures were abstracted, coded, and categorized into 5 domains of physical performance: fitness, functional mobility, gait, balance, and strength. Criteria for recommendations were based on (1) the frequency of use, (2) responsiveness, and (3) reliability. Frequency was determined by the number of studies that used the outcome measure per physical performance domain. Responsiveness was assessed via calculated effect size of the outcome measures across studies within physical performance domains. Reliability was evaluated via published studies of psychometric properties. A total of 20 physical performance outcome measures were extracted from 48 articles that met study inclusion criteria. The most frequently used outcome measures were the 6-minute walk test, Timed Up and Go, repeated chair stand tests, short-distance gait speed, the Berg Balance Scale, and isometric strength measures. These outcome measures demonstrated a small, medium, or large effect in at least 50% of the exercise intervention studies. Good to excellent reliability was reported in samples of older adults with mild to moderate dementia. Fitness, functional mobility, gait, balance, and strength represent important domains of physical performance for older adults. The 6-minute walk test, Timed Up and Go, repeated chair stand tests, short-distance gait speed, Berg Balance Scale, and isometric strength are recommended as commonly used and reliable physical performance outcome measures for exercise interventions in older adults with mild to moderate ADRD. Further research is needed on optimal measures for individuals with severe ADRD. The results of this review will aid clinicians and researchers in selecting reliable measures to evaluate physical performance outcomes in response to exercise interventions in older adults with ADRD.

Engineering performance metrics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Delozier, R.; Snyder, N.

1993-03-01

Implementation of a Total Quality Management (TQM) approach to engineering work required the development of a system of metrics which would serve as a meaningful management tool for evaluating effectiveness in accomplishing project objectives and in achieving improved customer satisfaction. A team effort was chartered with the goal of developing a system of engineering performance metrics which would measure customer satisfaction, quality, cost effectiveness, and timeliness. The approach to developing this system involved normal systems design phases including, conceptual design, detailed design, implementation, and integration. The lessons teamed from this effort will be explored in this paper. These lessons learned may provide a starting point for other large engineering organizations seeking to institute a performance measurement system accomplishing project objectives and in achieving improved customer satisfaction. To facilitate this effort, a team was chartered to assist in the development of the metrics system. This team, consisting of customers and Engineering staff members, was utilized to ensure that the needs and views of the customers were considered in the development of performance measurements. The development of a system of metrics is no different than the development of any type of system. It includes the steps of defining performance measurement requirements, measurement process conceptual design, performance measurement and reporting system detailed design, and system implementation and integration.

Driver performance measurement and analysis system (DPMAS). Volume 1, Description and operations manual

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1976-08-01

A prototype driver performance measurement and analysis system (DPMAS) has been developed for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This system includes a completely instrumented 1974 Chevrolet Impala capable of digitally record...

An Investigation Into the Performance of a Miniature Diesel Engine

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stevenson, P. W.

1970-01-01

Reports the procedures and results of a student investigation of the performance of a miniature diesel engine. The experiments include (1) torque measurement, (2) power measurement, and (3) variation of power output with applied load. Bibliography. (LC)

Performance in wild ungulates: measuring population density and condition of individuals

Treesearch

John G. Kie

1988-01-01

Measures of performance in wild ungulates can include characteristics indicative of condition and health such as body weights, fat reserves, blood values, reproductive rates, and parasite loads. Performance may also be inferred from habitat-related factors, such as diet and nutritional intake. However, these parameters interact with population density to form a...

Determining and Communicating the Value of the Special Library.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Matthews, Joseph R.

2003-01-01

Discusses performance measures for libraries that will indicate the goodness of the library and its services. Highlights include a general evaluation model that includes input, process, output, and outcome measures; balanced scorecard approach that includes financial perspectives; focusing on strategy; strategies for change; user criteria for…

Application of the analytic hierarchy process in the performance measurement of colorectal cancer care for the design of a pay-for-performance program in Taiwan.

PubMed

Chung, Kuo-Piao; Chen, Li-Ju; Chang, Yao-Jen; Chang, Yun-Jau; Lai, Mei-Shu

2013-02-01

To prioritize performance measures for colorectal cancer care to facilitate the implementation of a pay-for-performance (PFP) system. Questionnaires survey. Medical hospitals in Taiwan. Sixty-six medical doctors from 5 November 2009 to 10 December 2009. Analytic hierarchy process (AHP) technique. Main outcome measure(s) Performance measures (two pre-treatment, six treatment related and three monitoring related) were used. Forty-eight doctors responded and returned questionnaires (response rate 72.7%) with surgeons and physicians contributing equally. The most important measure was the proportion of colorectal patients who had pre-operative examinations that included chest X-ray and abdominal ultrasound, computed tomography or MRI (global priority: 0.144), followed by the proportion of stages I-III colorectal cancer patients who had undergone a wide surgical resection documented as 'negative margin' (global priority: 0.133) and the proportion of colorectal cancer patients who had undergone surgery with a pathology report that included information on tumor size and node differentiation (global priority: 0.116). Most participants considered that the best interval for the renewal indicators was 3-5 years (43.75%) followed by 5-10 years (27.08%). To design a PFP program, the AHP method is a useful technique to prioritize performance measures, especially in a highly specialized domain such as colorectal cancer care.

Performance testing accountability measurements

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

Oldham, R.D.; Mitchell, W.G.; Spaletto, M.I.

The New Brunswick Laboratory (NBL) provides assessment support to the DOE Operations Offices in the area of Material Control and Accountability (MC and A). During surveys of facilities, the Operations Offices have begun to request from NBL either assistance in providing materials for performance testing of accountability measurements or both materials and personnel to do performance testing. To meet these needs, NBL has developed measurement and measurement control performance test procedures and materials. The present NBL repertoire of performance tests include the following: (1) mass measurement performance testing procedures using calibrated and traceable test weights, (2) uranium elemental concentration (assay)more » measurement performance tests which use ampulated solutions of normal uranyl nitrate containing approximately 7 milligrams of uranium per gram of solution, and (3) uranium isotopic measurement performance tests which use ampulated uranyl nitrate solutions with enrichments ranging from 4% to 90% U-235. The preparation, characterization, and packaging of the uranium isotopic and assay performance test materials were done in cooperation with the NBL Safeguards Measurements Evaluation Program since these materials can be used for both purposes.« less

Measurement properties of performance-based outcome measures to assess physical function in young and middle-aged people known to be at high risk of hip and/or knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review.

PubMed

Kroman, S L; Roos, E M; Bennell, K L; Hinman, R S; Dobson, F

2014-01-01

To systematically appraise the evidence on measurement properties of performance-based outcome measures to assess physical function in young and middle-aged people known to be at high risk of hip and/or knee osteoarthritis (OA). Electronic searches were performed in MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus and SPORTDiscus in May 2013. Two reviewers independently rated the measurement properties using the 4-point COSMIN checklist. Best evidence synthesis was made using COSMIN quality, consistency and direction of findings and sample size. Twenty of 2736 papers were eligible for inclusion and 24 different performance-based outcome measures knee or obese populations were evaluated. No tests related to hip populations were included. Twenty-five measurement properties including reliability (nine studies), construct validity (hypothesis testing) (nine studies), measurement error (three studies), structural validity (two studies), interpretability (one study) and responsiveness (one study) were evaluated. A positive rating was given to 12.5% (30/240) of all possible measurement ratings. Tests were grouped into two categories based on the population characteristics. The one-legged hop for distance, followed by the 6-m timed hop and cross over hop for distance were the best-rated tests for the knee-injured population. Whereas the 6-min walk test was the only included test for the obese population. This review highlights the many gaps in knowledge about the measurement properties of performance-based outcome measures for young and middle-aged people known to be at high risk of hip and/or knee OA. There is a need for consensus on which outcome measures should be used and/or combined when assessing physical function in this population. Further good quality research is required. Copyright © 2013 Osteoarthritis Research Society International. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Performance-Based Versus Patient-Reported Physical Function: What Are the Underlying Predictors?

PubMed Central

Ölveczky, Daniele D.; Kiely, Dan K.; LaRose, Sharon I.; Jette, Alan M.

2011-01-01

Background Functional limitations have been operationally defined for studies of rehabilitation science through measures of physical performance and patient-reported function. Although conceived as representing similar concepts, differences between these 2 modes of measuring physical functioning have not been adequately characterized scientifically. Objective The purpose of this study was to compare the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) with the function component of the Late-Life Function and Disability Instrument (LLFDI) with respect to their association with physiologic factors and other psychosocial and health factors potentially influencing rehabilitative care. Design This study was a cross-sectional analysis of baseline data from a sample of community-dwelling older adults (N=137) with mobility limitations enrolled in a randomized controlled trial of exercise. Methods A performance-based measure of function (the SPPB) and a self-report measure of function (the LLFDI) served as functional outcomes. Physiologic factors included measures of leg strength, leg velocity, and exercise tolerance test (ETT) duration, which served as a surrogate measure of aerobic capacity. Psychosocial and health factors included age, sex, height, body mass index, number of chronic conditions, depression, and falls efficacy. Results Separate multivariable regression models predicting SPPB and LLFDI scores described 33% and 42% of the variance in each outcome (R2), respectively. Leg velocity and ETT duration were positively associated with both performance-based and patient-reported functional measures. Leg strength and age were positively associated with SPPB scores, whereas number of chronic conditions, sex, and falls efficacy were associated with the LLFDI scores. Limitations This study included older adults with mobility limitations and may not generalize to other populations. Conclusions Performance-based and patient-reported measures of physical function appear to assess different aspects of an older person's functioning. The SPPB was associated with age and physiologic factors, whereas patient-reported function measured by the LLFDI was associated with these factors as well as with psychosocial and health factors. PMID:22003163

Performance-based versus patient-reported physical function: what are the underlying predictors?

PubMed

Bean, Jonathan F; Olveczky, Daniele D; Kiely, Dan K; LaRose, Sharon I; Jette, Alan M

2011-12-01

Functional limitations have been operationally defined for studies of rehabilitation science through measures of physical performance and patient-reported function. Although conceived as representing similar concepts, differences between these 2 modes of measuring physical functioning have not been adequately characterized scientifically. The purpose of this study was to compare the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) with the function component of the Late-Life Function and Disability Instrument (LLFDI) with respect to their association with physiologic factors and other psychosocial and health factors potentially influencing rehabilitative care. This study was a cross-sectional analysis of baseline data from a sample of community-dwelling older adults (N=137) with mobility limitations enrolled in a randomized controlled trial of exercise. A performance-based measure of function (the SPPB) and a self-report measure of function (the LLFDI) served as functional outcomes. Physiologic factors included measures of leg strength, leg velocity, and exercise tolerance test (ETT) duration, which served as a surrogate measure of aerobic capacity. Psychosocial and health factors included age, sex, height, body mass index, number of chronic conditions, depression, and falls efficacy. Separate multivariable regression models predicting SPPB and LLFDI scores described 33% and 42% of the variance in each outcome (R(2)), respectively. Leg velocity and ETT duration were positively associated with both performance-based and patient-reported functional measures. Leg strength and age were positively associated with SPPB scores, whereas number of chronic conditions, sex, and falls efficacy were associated with the LLFDI scores. This study included older adults with mobility limitations and may not generalize to other populations. Performance-based and patient-reported measures of physical function appear to assess different aspects of an older person's functioning. The SPPB was associated with age and physiologic factors, whereas patient-reported function measured by the LLFDI was associated with these factors as well as with psychosocial and health factors.

Effect of time span and task load on pilot mental workload

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Berg, S. L.; Sheridan, T. B.

1986-01-01

Two sets of simulations designed to examine how a pilot's mental workload is affected by continuous manual-control activity versus discrete mental tasks that included the length of time between receiving an assignment and executing it are described. The first experiment evaluated two types of measures: objective performance indicators and subjective ratings. Subjective ratings for the two missions were different, but the objective performance measures were similar. In the second experiments, workload levels were increased and a second performance measure was taken. Mental workload had no influence on either performance-based workload measure. Subjective ratings discriminated among the scenarios and correlated with performance measures for high-workload flights. The number of mental tasks performed did not influence error rates, although high manual workloads did increase errors.

Time-Resolved Fluorescence Anisotropy of Bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane/Tolane-Based Molecular Rods Included in Tris(o-phenylenedioxy)cyclotriphosphazene (TPP).

PubMed

Cipolloni, Marco; Kaleta, Jiří; Mašát, Milan; Dron, Paul I; Shen, Yongqiang; Zhao, Ke; Rogers, Charles T; Shoemaker, Richard K; Michl, Josef

2015-04-23

We examine the fluorescence anisotropy of rod-shaped guests held inside the channels of tris( o -phenylenedioxy)cyclotriphosphazene (TPP) host nanocrystals, characterized by powder X-ray diffraction and solid state NMR spectroscopy. We address two issues: (i) are light polarization measurements on an aqueous colloidal solution of TPP nanocrystals meaningful, or is depolarization by scattering excessive? (ii) Can measurements of the rotational mobility of the included guests be performed at low enough loading levels to suppress depolarization by intercrystallite energy transfer? We find that meaningful measurements are possible and demonstrate that the long axis of molecular rods included in TPP channels performs negligible vibrational motion.

National Water Program FY 2015 Performance, Trends and Best Practices Report

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This Report includes final FY 2015 performance data for all U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) National Water Program measures included in EPA's 2014-2018 Strategic Plan and the FY 2015 National Water Program Guidance Addendum.

National Water Program Performance FY 2017 Trends, and Best Practices Report

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This report includes FY 2017 performance data for all U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) National Water Program measures included in EPA's 2014-2018 Strategic Plan and the FY 2016-2017 National Water Program Guidance.

10 CFR Appendix U to Subpart B of... - Uniform Test Method for Measuring the Energy Consumption of Ceiling Fans

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... performing the airflow test, measure ceiling fan power using a RMS sensor capable of measuring power with an accuracy of ±1 %. Prior to using the sensor and sensor software it has selected, the test laboratory shall verify performance of the sensor and sensor software. Measure power input at a point that includes all...

The quality of systematic reviews of health-related outcome measurement instruments.

PubMed

Terwee, C B; Prinsen, C A C; Ricci Garotti, M G; Suman, A; de Vet, H C W; Mokkink, L B

2016-04-01

Systematic reviews of outcome measurement instruments are important tools for the selection of instruments for research and clinical practice. Our aim was to assess the quality of systematic reviews of health-related outcome measurement instruments and to determine whether the quality has improved since our previous study in 2007. A systematic literature search was performed in MEDLINE and EMBASE between July 1, 2013, and June 19, 2014. The quality of the reviews was rated using a study-specific checklist. A total of 102 reviews were included. In many reviews the search strategy was considered not comprehensive; in only 59 % of the reviews a search was performed in EMBASE and in about half of the reviews there was doubt about the comprehensiveness of the search terms used for type of measurement instruments and measurement properties. In 41 % of the reviews, compared to 30 % in our previous study, the methodological quality of the included studies was assessed. In 58 %, compared to 55 %, the quality of the included instruments was assessed. In 42 %, compared to 7 %, a data synthesis was performed in which the results from multiple studies on the same instrument were somehow combined. Despite a clear improvement in the quality of systematic reviews of outcome measurement instruments in comparison with our previous study in 2007, there is still room for improvement with regard to the search strategy, and especially the quality assessment of the included studies and the included instruments, and the data synthesis.

Status of runway slipperiness research

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Horne, W. B.

1976-01-01

Runway slipperiness research performed in the United States and Europe since 1968 is reviewed. Topics discussed include: (1) runway flooding during rainstorms; (2) hydroplaning; (3) identification of slippery runways including the results from ground vehicle friction measurements and attempts to correlate these measurements with aircraft stopping performance; (4) progress and problems associated with the development of antihydroplaning runway surface treatments such as pavement grooving and porous friction course (PFC); and (5) runway rubber deposits and their removal.

Performance measurement in healthcare: part II--state of the science findings by stage of the performance measurement process.

PubMed

Adair, Carol E; Simpson, Elizabeth; Casebeer, Ann L; Birdsell, Judith M; Hayden, Katharine A; Lewis, Steven

2006-07-01

This paper summarizes findings of a comprehensive, systematic review of the peer-reviewed and grey literature on performance measurement according to each stage of the performance measurement process--conceptualization, selection and development, data collection, and reporting and use. It also outlines implications for practice. Six hundred sixty-four articles about organizational performance measurement from the health and business literature were reviewed after systematic searches of the literature, multi-rater relevancy ratings, citation checks and expert author nominations. Key themes were extracted and summarized from the most highly rated papers for each performance measurement stage. Despite a virtually universal consensus on the potential benefits of performance measurement, little evidence currently exists to guide practice in healthcare. Issues in conceptualizing systems include strategic alignment and scope. There are debates on the criteria for selecting measures and on the types and quality of measures. Implementation of data collection and analysis systems is complex and costly, and challenges persist in reporting results, preventing unintended effects and putting findings for improvement into action. There is a need for further development and refinement of performance measures and measurement systems, with a particular focus on strategies to ensure that performance measurement leads to healthcare improvement.

Using lagging and leading indicators for the evaluation of occupational safety and health performance in industry.

PubMed

Pawłowska, Zofia

2015-01-01

Improvement of occupational safety and health (OSH) management is closely related to the development of OSH performance measurement, which should include OSH outcomes (e.g., occupational accidents), OSH inputs (including working conditions) and OSH-related activities. The indicators used to measure the OSH outcomes are often called lagging indicators, and the indicators of inputs and OSH activities are leading indicators. A study was conducted in 60 companies in order to determine what kinds of indicators were used for OSH performance measurement by companies with different levels of OSH performance. The results reveal that the indicators most commonly used in all of the companies are those related to ensuring compliance with the statutory requirements. At the same time, the leading indicators are much more often adopted in companies with a higher performance level. These companies also much more often monitor on a regular basis the indicators adopted for the evaluation of their OSH performance.

Using lagging and leading indicators for the evaluation of occupational safety and health performance in industry

PubMed Central

Pawłowska, Zofia

2015-01-01

Improvement of occupational safety and health (OSH) management is closely related to the development of OSH performance measurement, which should include OSH outcomes (e.g., occupational accidents), OSH inputs (including working conditions) and OSH-related activities. The indicators used to measure the OSH outcomes are often called lagging indicators, and the indicators of inputs and OSH activities are leading indicators. A study was conducted in 60 companies in order to determine what kinds of indicators were used for OSH performance measurement by companies with different levels of OSH performance. The results reveal that the indicators most commonly used in all of the companies are those related to ensuring compliance with the statutory requirements. At the same time, the leading indicators are much more often adopted in companies with a higher performance level. These companies also much more often monitor on a regular basis the indicators adopted for the evaluation of their OSH performance. PMID:26647949

48 CFR 1516.401-70 - Award term incentives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

..., including the evaluation criteria and performance measures, and serves as the basis for award term decisions...) The contractor has failed to achieve the performance measures for the corresponding evaluation period....401-70 Section 1516.401-70 Federal Acquisition Regulations System ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY...

Measurement of Habitual Physical Activity Performance in Adolescents with Cerebral Palsy: A Systematic Review

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Clanchy, Kelly M.; Tweedy, Sean M.; Boyd, Roslyn

2011-01-01

Aim: This systematic review compares the validity, reliability, and clinical use of habitual physical activity (HPA) performance measures in adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP). Method: Measures of HPA across Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels I-V for adolescents (10-18y) with CP were included if at least 60% of items…

Development of Performance Dashboards in Healthcare Sector: Key Practical Issues

PubMed Central

Ghazisaeidi, Marjan; Safdari, Reza; Torabi, Mashallah; Mirzaee, Mahboobeh; Farzi, Jebraeil; Goodini, Azadeh

2015-01-01

Background: Static nature of performance reporting systems in health care sector has resulted in inconsistent, incomparable, time consuming, and static performance reports that are not able to transparently reflect a round picture of performance and effectively support healthcare managers’ decision makings. So, the healthcare sector needs interactive performance management tools such as performance dashboards to measure, monitor, and manage performance more effectively. The aim of this article was to identify key issues that need to be addressed for developing high-quality performance dashboards in healthcare sector. Methods: A literature review was established to search electronic research databases, e-journals collections, and printed journals, books, dissertations, and theses for relevant articles. The search strategy interchangeably used the terms of “dashboard”, “performance measurement system”, and “executive information system” with the term of “design” combined with operator “AND”. Search results (n=250) were adjusted for duplications, screened based on their abstract relevancy and full-text availability (n=147) and then assessed for eligibility (n=40). Eligible articles were included if they had explicitly focused on dashboards, performance measurement systems or executive information systems design. Finally, 28 relevant articles included in the study. Results: Creating high-quality performance dashboards requires addressing both performance measurement and executive information systems design issues. Covering these two fields, identified contents were categorized to four main domains: KPIs development, Data Sources and data generation, Integration of dashboards to source systems, and Information presentation issues. Conclusion: This study implies the main steps to develop dashboards for the purpose of performance management. Performance dashboards developed on performance measurement and executive information systems principles and supported by proper back-end infrastructure will result in creation of dynamic reports that help healthcare managers to consistently measure the performance, continuously detect outliers, deeply analyze causes of poor performance, and effectively plan for the future. PMID:26635442

Measure Guideline: Ventilation Guidance for Residential High-Performance New Construction - Multifamily

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

Lstiburek, Joseph

2017-01-01

The measure guideline provides ventilation guidance for residential high performance multifamily construction that incorporates the requirements of the ASHRAE 62.2 ventilation and indoor air quality standard. The measure guideline focus is on the decision criteria for weighing cost and performance of various ventilation systems. The measure guideline is intended for contractors, builders, developers, designers and building code officials. The guide may also be helpful to building owners wishing to learn more about ventilation strategies available for their buildings. The measure guideline includes specific design and installation instructions for the most cost effective and performance effective solutions for ventilation in multifamilymore » units that satisfies the requirements of ASHRAE 62.2-2016.« less

Measure Guideline: Ventilation Guidance for Residential High-Performance New Construction - Multifamily

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

Lstiburek, Joseph

The measure guideline provides ventilation guidance for residential high performance multifamily construction that incorporates the requirements of the ASHRAE 62.2 ventilation and indoor air quality standard. The measure guideline focus is on the decision criteria for weighing cost and performance of various ventilation systems. The measure guideline is intended for contractors, builders, developers, designers and building code officials. The guide may also be helpful to building owners wishing to learn more about ventilation strategies available for their buildings. The measure guideline includes specific design and installation instructions for the most cost effective and performance effective solutions for ventilation in multifamilymore » units that satisfies the requirements of ASHRAE 62.2-2016.« less

The challenge of measuring emergency preparedness: integrating component metrics to build system-level measures for strategic national stockpile operations.

PubMed

Jackson, Brian A; Faith, Kay Sullivan

2013-02-01

Although significant progress has been made in measuring public health emergency preparedness, system-level performance measures are lacking. This report examines a potential approach to such measures for Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) operations. We adapted an engineering analytic technique used to assess the reliability of technological systems-failure mode and effects analysis-to assess preparedness. That technique, which includes systematic mapping of the response system and identification of possible breakdowns that affect performance, provides a path to use data from existing SNS assessment tools to estimate likely future performance of the system overall. Systems models of SNS operations were constructed and failure mode analyses were performed for each component. Linking data from existing assessments, including the technical assistance review and functional drills, to reliability assessment was demonstrated using publicly available information. The use of failure mode and effects estimates to assess overall response system reliability was demonstrated with a simple simulation example. Reliability analysis appears an attractive way to integrate information from the substantial investment in detailed assessments for stockpile delivery and dispensing to provide a view of likely future response performance.

Developing Emergency Room Key Performance Indicators: What to Measure and Why Should We Measure It?

PubMed

Khalifa, Mohamed; Zabani, Ibrahim

2016-01-01

Emergency Room (ER) performance has been a timely topic for both healthcare practitioners and researchers. King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Saudi Arabia worked on developing a comprehensive set of KPIs to monitor, evaluate and improve the performance of the ER. A combined approach using quantitative and qualitative methods was used to collect and analyze the data. 34 KPIs were developed and sorted into the three components of the ER patient flow model; input, throughput and output. Input indicators included number and acuity of ER patients, patients leaving without being seen and revisit rates. Throughput indicators included number of active ER beds, ratio of ER patients to ER staff and the length of stay including waiting time and treatment time. The turnaround time of supportive services, such as lab, radiology and medications, were also included. Output indicators include boarding time and available hospital beds, ICU beds and patients waiting for admission.

Measuring the globalization of cities from the new regionalism perspective.

PubMed

Ergüzel, Oylum Şehvez; Tunahan, Hakan; Esen, Sinan

2016-01-01

The study aims to analyze the export performance of countries and of cities within them to identify synchronized or unsynchronized movement between them. In the empirical part of the study, the measurements used to analyze the export performance of the countries included in the literature are applied to establish the export performance of a single city-Sakarya, Turkey. These measurements include the Herfindahl-Hirchman product and market concentration indices, the Lawrence index, the trade complementarity index, and the Grubel-Lloyd intra-industry index, as well as additional indicators with local or regional contexts. The limited number of studies analyzing the export competitiveness of a single city with relevant formats in the literature reveal the significance of the study.

Improving the Selection, Classification, and Utilization of Army Enlisted Personnel. Annual Report, 1985 Fiscal Year. Supplement

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-10-01

PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME AND ADDRESS 10. PROGRAM ELEMENT, PROJECT, TASK Human Resources Research Organization 2 P 3 QA2 79 9"INiTNUMBERS 1100...classification tests which will validly predict carefully developed measures of job performance . The project addresses the 675,000-person enlisted personnel...are to include both Army-wide job performance measures based on newly developed rating scales, and direct hands-on measures of MOS-specific task

Test validity and performance validity: considerations in providing a framework for development of an ability-focused neuropsychological test battery.

PubMed

Larrabee, Glenn J

2014-11-01

Literature on test validity and performance validity is reviewed to propose a framework for specification of an ability-focused battery (AFB). Factor analysis supports six domains of ability: first, verbal symbolic; secondly, visuoperceptual and visuospatial judgment and problem solving; thirdly, sensorimotor skills; fourthly, attention/working memory; fifthly, processing speed; finally, learning and memory (which can be divided into verbal and visual subdomains). The AFB should include at least three measures for each of the six domains, selected based on various criteria for validity including sensitivity to presence of disorder, sensitivity to severity of disorder, correlation with important activities of daily living, and containing embedded/derived measures of performance validity. Criterion groups should include moderate and severe traumatic brain injury, and Alzheimer's disease. Validation groups should also include patients with left and right hemisphere stroke, to determine measures sensitive to lateralized cognitive impairment and so that the moderating effects of auditory comprehension impairment and neglect can be analyzed on AFB measures. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Lessons from Five States: Public Sector Use of Washington Circle Performance Measures

PubMed Central

Garnick, Deborah W.; Lee, Margaret T.; Horgan, Constance; Acevedo, Andrea; Botticelli, Michael; Clark, Spencer; Davis, Steven; Gallati, Robert; Haberlin, Karin; Hanchett, Andrew; Lambert–Wacey, Dawn; Leeper, Tracy; Siemianowski, James; Tikoo, Minakshi

2011-01-01

Five states (Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, North Carolina, and Oklahoma) have incorporated Washington Circle (WC) substance abuse performance measures in various ways into their quality improvement strategies. In this paper we focus on what other states and local providers might learn from these states’ experiences as they consider using WC performance measures. Using a case study approach, we report that the use of WC measures differs across these five states, although there are important common themes required for adoption and sustainability of performance measures which include: leadership, evaluation of specification and use of measures over time, state-specific adaptation of the WC measure specifications, collaboration with consultants and partners, inclusion of WC measures in the context of other initiatives, reporting to providers and the public, and data and resource requirements. As additional states adopt some of the WC measures, or adopt other performance measurement approaches, these states’ experiences could help them to develop implementations based on their particular needs. PMID:21257282

Assessing fitness-for-duty and predicting performance with cognitive neurophysiological measures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, Michael E.; Gevins, Alan

2005-05-01

Progress is described in developing a novel test of neurocognitive status for fitness-for-duty testing. The Sustained Attention & Memory (SAM) test combines neurophysiologic (EEG) measures of brain activation with performance measures during a psychometric test of sustained attention and working memory, and then gauges changes in neurocognitive status relative to an individual"s normative baseline. In studies of the effects of common psychoactive substances that can affect job performance, including sedating antihistamines, caffeine, alcohol, marijuana, and prescription medications, test sensitivity was greater for the combined neurophysiological and performance measures than for task performance measures by themselves. The neurocognitive effects of overnight sleep deprivation were quite evident, and such effects predicted subsequent performance impairment on a flight simulator task. Sensitivity to diurnal circadian variations was also demonstrated. With further refinement and independent validation, the SAM Test may prove useful for assessing readiness-to-perform in high-asset personnel working in demanding, high risk situations.

Performance validity testing in neuropsychology: a clinical guide, critical review, and update on a rapidly evolving literature.

PubMed

Lippa, Sara M

2018-04-01

Over the past two decades, there has been much research on measures of response bias and myriad measures have been validated in a variety of clinical and research samples. This critical review aims to guide clinicians through the use of performance validity tests (PVTs) from test selection and administration through test interpretation and feedback. Recommended cutoffs and relevant test operating characteristics are presented. Other important issues to consider during test selection, administration, interpretation, and feedback are discussed including order effects, coaching, impact on test data, and methods to combine measures and improve predictive power. When interpreting performance validity measures, neuropsychologists must use particular caution in cases of dementia, low intelligence, English as a second language/minority cultures, or low education. PVTs provide valuable information regarding response bias and, under the right circumstances, can provide excellent evidence of response bias. Only after consideration of the entire clinical picture, including validity test performance, can concrete determinations regarding the validity of test data be made.

Acoustic measurements of a full-scale rotor with four tip shapes. Volume 1: Text, appendices A and B

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mosher, M.

1984-01-01

A full-scale helicopter with four different blade-tip geometries was tested in the 40- by 80-foot wind tunnel at Ames Research Center. Performance, loads, and noise were measured. The four tip shapes tested were rectangular, tapered, swept, and swept-tapered. Noise measurements from that test are presented in the form of tables and plots. The noise data include measurements of the sound pressure level in dB, dBA, and tone-corrected PNdB, for all of the conditions tested. Detailed measurements, 1/3-octave spectra and time-histories for some selected data are included as well as plots of dBA as function of test condition. Some performance measurements are given to aid interpretation of the noise data.

Prognostic score–based balance measures for propensity score methods in comparative effectiveness research

PubMed Central

Stuart, Elizabeth A.; Lee, Brian K.; Leacy, Finbarr P.

2013-01-01

Objective Examining covariate balance is the prescribed method for determining when propensity score methods are successful at reducing bias. This study assessed the performance of various balance measures, including a proposed balance measure based on the prognostic score (also known as the disease-risk score), to determine which balance measures best correlate with bias in the treatment effect estimate. Study Design and Setting The correlations of multiple common balance measures with bias in the treatment effect estimate produced by weighting by the odds, subclassification on the propensity score, and full matching on the propensity score were calculated. Simulated data were used, based on realistic data settings. Settings included both continuous and binary covariates and continuous covariates only. Results The standardized mean difference in prognostic scores, the mean standardized mean difference, and the mean t-statistic all had high correlations with bias in the effect estimate. Overall, prognostic scores displayed the highest correlations of all the balance measures considered. Prognostic score measure performance was generally not affected by model misspecification and performed well under a variety of scenarios. Conclusion Researchers should consider using prognostic score–based balance measures for assessing the performance of propensity score methods for reducing bias in non-experimental studies. PMID:23849158

NERC Policy 10: Measurement of two generation and load balancing IOS

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

Spicer, P.J.; Galow, G.G.

1999-11-01

Policy 10 will describe specific standards and metrics for most of the reliability functions described in the Interconnected Operations Services Working Group (IOS WG) report. The purpose of this paper is to discuss, in detail, the proposed metrics for two generation and load balancing IOSs: Regulation; Load Following. For purposes of this paper, metrics include both measurement and performance evaluation. The measurement methods discussed are included in the current draft of the proposed Policy 10. The performance evaluation method discussed is offered by the authors for consideration by the IOS ITF (Implementation Task Force) for inclusion into Policy 10.

Baby-MONITOR: A Composite Indicator of NICU Quality

PubMed Central

Kowalkowski, Marc A.; Zupancic, John A. F.; Pietz, Kenneth; Richardson, Peter; Draper, David; Hysong, Sylvia J.; Thomas, Eric J.; Petersen, Laura A.; Gould, Jeffrey B.

2014-01-01

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: NICUs vary in the quality of care delivered to very low birth weight (VLBW) infants. NICU performance on 1 measure of quality only modestly predicts performance on others. Composite measurement of quality of care delivery may provide a more comprehensive assessment of quality. The objective of our study was to develop a robust composite indicator of quality of NICU care provided to VLBW infants that accurately discriminates performance among NICUs. METHODS: We developed a composite indicator, Baby-MONITOR, based on 9 measures of quality chosen by a panel of experts. Measures were standardized, equally weighted, and averaged. We used the California Perinatal Quality Care Collaborative database to perform across-sectional analysis of care given to VLBW infants between 2004 and 2010. Performance on the Baby-MONITOR is not an absolute marker of quality but indicates overall performance relative to that of the other NICUs. We used sensitivity analyses to assess the robustness of the composite indicator, by varying assumptions and methods. RESULTS: Our sample included 9023 VLBW infants in 22 California regional NICUs. We found significant variations within and between NICUs on measured components of the Baby-MONITOR. Risk-adjusted composite scores discriminated performance among this sample of NICUs. Sensitivity analysis that included different approaches to normalization, weighting, and aggregation of individual measures showed the Baby-MONITOR to be robust (r = 0.89–0.99). CONCLUSIONS: The Baby-MONITOR may be a useful tool to comprehensively assess the quality of care delivered by NICUs. PMID:24918221

A Dataset for Education-Related Majors' Performance Measures with Pre/Post-Video Game Practice

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Novak, Elena; Tassell, Janet Lynne

2015-01-01

This dataset includes a series of 30 education-related majors' performance measures before and after they completed a 10-hour video game practice in a computer lab. The goal of the experimental study was to examine the effects of action video gaming on students' mathematics performance and mathematics anxiety as mediated by the effect of attention…

The effects of anxious responding on mental arithmetic and lexical decision task performance.

PubMed

Hopko, Derek R; McNeil, Daniel W; Lejuez, C W; Ashcraft, Mark H; Eifert, Georg H; Riel, Jim

2003-01-01

Anxiety-related responding and skill deficits historically are associated with performance-based problems such as mathematics anxiety, yet the relative contribution of these variables to substandard performance remains poorly understood. Utilizing a 7% carbon dioxide (CO2) gas to induce anxiety, the present study examined the impact of anxious responding on two performance tasks, mental arithmetic and lexical decision. Independent variables included math anxiety group, gender, and gas condition. Dependent variables included task performance and physiological and self-report indices of anxiety. A total of 64 university undergraduate students participated. Physiological and verbal-report measures of anxiety supported the utility of 7% carbon dioxide-enriched air as an anxiety-inducing stimulus. Behavioral disruption on performance tasks, however, did not differ as a function of carbon dioxide inhalation. Performance did differ as a function of math anxiety. High math anxious individuals generally exhibited higher error rates on mathematical tasks, particularly on tasks designed to measure advanced math skill and those requiring working memory resources. These findings are discussed with reference to processing efficiency theory, discordance among anxiety response systems, and the intricacies associated with skill measurement.

Public Reporting of Primary Care Clinic Quality: Accounting for Sociodemographic Factors in Risk Adjustment and Performance Comparison.

PubMed

Wholey, Douglas R; Finch, Michael; Kreiger, Rob; Reeves, David

2018-01-03

Performance measurement and public reporting are increasingly being used to compare clinic performance. Intended consequences include quality improvement, value-based payment, and consumer choice. Unintended consequences include reducing access for riskier patients and inappropriately labeling some clinics as poor performers, resulting in tampering with stable care processes. Two analytic steps are used to maximize intended and minimize unintended consequences. First, risk adjustment is used to reduce the impact of factors outside providers' control. Second, performance categorization is used to compare clinic performance using risk-adjusted measures. This paper examines the effects of methodological choices, such as risk adjusting for sociodemographic factors in risk adjustment and accounting for patients clustering by clinics in performance categorization, on clinic performance comparison for diabetes care, vascular care, asthma, and colorectal cancer screening. The population includes all patients with commercial and public insurance served by clinics in Minnesota. Although risk adjusting for sociodemographic factors has a significant effect on quality, it does not explain much of the variation in quality. In contrast, taking into account the nesting of patients within clinics in performance categorization has a substantial effect on performance comparison.

Time-Resolved Fluorescence Anisotropy of Bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane/Tolane-Based Molecular Rods Included in Tris(o-phenylenedioxy)cyclotriphosphazene (TPP)

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

We examine the fluorescence anisotropy of rod-shaped guests held inside the channels of tris(o-phenylenedioxy)cyclotriphosphazene (TPP) host nanocrystals, characterized by powder X-ray diffraction and solid state NMR spectroscopy. We address two issues: (i) are light polarization measurements on an aqueous colloidal solution of TPP nanocrystals meaningful, or is depolarization by scattering excessive? (ii) Can measurements of the rotational mobility of the included guests be performed at low enough loading levels to suppress depolarization by intercrystallite energy transfer? We find that meaningful measurements are possible and demonstrate that the long axis of molecular rods included in TPP channels performs negligible vibrational motion. PMID:25937858

Transportation cost index : a comprehensive performance measure for transportation and land and its application in OR, FL, and UT : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-04-01

MAP-21 and state laws are placing increasing emphasis on using comprehensive transportation performance measures that include mobility, : safety, economy, livability, equity, and environmental to guide transportation decision-making. One of the tough...

45 CFR 2553.109 - What happens if a sponsor fails to meet the performance measures included in the Notice of Grant...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... target performance measure established in the NGA, the Corporation will negotiate a period of no more... application from the organization for a new grant or augmentation of an existing grant under any program...

45 CFR 2553.109 - What happens if a sponsor fails to meet the performance measures included in the Notice of Grant...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... target performance measure established in the NGA, the Corporation will negotiate a period of no more... application from the organization for a new grant or augmentation of an existing grant under any program...

Improving Performance on Preventive Health Quality Measures Using Clinical Decision Support to Capture Care Done Elsewhere and Patient Exceptions.

PubMed

Bowen, Michael E; Bhat, Deepa; Fish, Jason; Moran, Brett; Howell-Stampley, Temple; Kirk, Lynne; Persell, Stephen D; Halm, Ethan A

Preventive services required for performance measurement often are completed in outside health systems and not captured in electronic medical records (EMRs). A before-after study was conducted to examine the ability of clinical decision support (CDS) to improve performance on preventive quality measures, capture clinician-reported services completed elsewhere, and patient/medical exceptions and to describe their impact on quality measurement. CDS improved performance on colorectal cancer screening, osteoporosis screening, and pneumococcal vaccination measures ( P < .05) but not breast or cervical cancer screening. CDS captured clinician-reported services completed elsewhere (2% to 10%) and patient/medical exceptions (<3%). Compared to measures using only within-system data, including services completed elsewhere in the numerator improved performance: pneumococcal vaccine (73% vs 82%); breast (69% vs 75%), colorectal (58% vs 70%), and cervical cancer (53% vs 62%); and osteoporosis (72% vs 75%) screening ( P < .05). Visit-based CDS can capture clinician-reported preventive services, and accounting for services completed elsewhere improves performance on quality measures.

Chief Complaint-Based Performance Measures: A New Focus For Acute Care Quality Measurement

PubMed Central

Griffey, Richard T; Pines, Jesse M.; Farley, Heather L.; Phelan, Michael P; Beach, Christopher; Schuur, Jeremiah D; Venkatesh, Arjun K.

2014-01-01

Performance measures are increasingly important to guide meaningful quality improvement efforts and value-based reimbursement. Populations included in most current hospital performance measures are defined by recorded diagnoses using International Disease Classification (ICD)-9 codes in administrative claims data. While the diagnosis-centric approach allows the assessment of disease-specific quality, it fails to measure one of the primary functions of emergency department (ED) care which involves diagnosing, risk-stratifying, and treating patients’ potentially life-threatening conditions based on symptoms (i.e. chief complaints). In this paper we propose chief complaint-based quality measures as a means to enhance the evaluation of quality and value in emergency care. We discuss the potential benefits of chief-complaint based measures, describe opportunities to mitigate challenges, propose an example measure set, and present several recommendations to advance this paradigm in ED-based performance measurement. PMID:25443989

Coherent Lidar Design and Performance Verification

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frehlich, Rod

1996-01-01

This final report summarizes the investigative results from the 3 complete years of funding and corresponding publications are listed. The first year saw the verification of beam alignment for coherent Doppler lidar in space by using the surface return. The second year saw the analysis and computerized simulation of using heterodyne efficiency as an absolute measure of performance of coherent Doppler lidar. A new method was proposed to determine the estimation error for Doppler lidar wind measurements without the need for an independent wind measurement. Coherent Doppler lidar signal covariance, including wind shear and turbulence, was derived and calculated for typical atmospheric conditions. The effects of wind turbulence defined by Kolmogorov spatial statistics were investigated theoretically and with simulations. The third year saw the performance of coherent Doppler lidar in the weak signal regime determined by computer simulations using the best velocity estimators. Improved algorithms for extracting the performance of velocity estimators with wind turbulence included were also produced.

Decision-making and cognitive abilities: A review of associations between Iowa Gambling Task performance, executive functions, and intelligence.

PubMed

Toplak, Maggie E; Sorge, Geoff B; Benoit, André; West, Richard F; Stanovich, Keith E

2010-07-01

The Iowa Gambling Task (IGT) has been used to study decision-making differences in many different clinical and developmental samples. It has been suggested that IGT performance captures abilities that are separable from cognitive abilities, including executive functions and intelligence. The purpose of the current review was to examine studies that have explicitly examined the relationship between IGT performance and these cognitive abilities. We included 43 studies that reported correlational analyses with IGT performance, including measures of inhibition, working memory, and set-shifting as indices of executive functions, as well as measures of verbal, nonverbal, and full-scale IQ as indices of intelligence. Overall, only a small proportion of the studies reported a statistically significant relationship between IGT performance and these cognitive abilities. The majority of studies reported a non-significant relationship. Of the minority of studies that reported statistically significant effects, effect sizes were, at best, small to modest, and confidence intervals were large, indicating that considerable variability in performance on the IGT is not captured by current measures of executive function and intelligence. These findings highlight the separability between decision-making on the IGT and cognitive abilities, which is consistent with recent conceptualizations that differentiate rationality from intelligence. 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Objective speech quality assessment and the RPE-LTP coding algorithm in different noise and language conditions.

PubMed

Hansen, J H; Nandkumar, S

1995-01-01

The formulation of reliable signal processing algorithms for speech coding and synthesis require the selection of a prior criterion of performance. Though coding efficiency (bits/second) or computational requirements can be used, a final performance measure must always include speech quality. In this paper, three objective speech quality measures are considered with respect to quality assessment for American English, noisy American English, and noise-free versions of seven languages. The purpose is to determine whether objective quality measures can be used to quantify changes in quality for a given voice coding method, with a known subjective performance level, as background noise or language conditions are changed. The speech coding algorithm chosen is regular-pulse excitation with long-term prediction (RPE-LTP), which has been chosen as the standard voice compression algorithm for the European Digital Mobile Radio system. Three areas are considered for objective quality assessment which include: (i) vocoder performance for American English in a noise-free environment, (ii) speech quality variation for three additive background noise sources, and (iii) noise-free performance for seven languages which include English, Japanese, Finnish, German, Hindi, Spanish, and French. It is suggested that although existing objective quality measures will never replace subjective testing, they can be a useful means of assessing changes in performance, identifying areas for improvement in algorithm design, and augmenting subjective quality tests for voice coding/compression algorithms in noise-free, noisy, and/or non-English applications.

Detection of gas leakage

DOEpatents

Thornberg, Steven [Peralta, NM; Brown, Jason [Albuquerque, NM

2012-06-19

A method of detecting leaks and measuring volumes as well as an apparatus, the Power-free Pump Module (PPM), that is a self-contained leak test and volume measurement apparatus that requires no external sources of electrical power during leak testing or volume measurement, where the invention is a portable, pneumatically-controlled instrument capable of generating a vacuum, calibrating volumes, and performing quantitative leak tests on a closed test system or device, all without the use of alternating current (AC) power. Capabilities include the ability is to provide a modest vacuum (less than 10 Torr), perform a pressure rise leak test, measure the gas's absolute pressure, and perform volume measurements. All operations are performed through a simple rotary control valve which controls pneumatically-operated manifold valves.

Detection of gas leakage

DOEpatents

Thornberg, Steven M; Brown, Jason

2015-02-17

A method of detecting leaks and measuring volumes as well as a device, the Power-free Pump Module (PPM), provides a self-contained leak test and volume measurement apparatus that requires no external sources of electrical power during leak testing or volume measurement. The PPM is a portable, pneumatically-controlled instrument capable of generating a vacuum, calibrating volumes, and performing quantitative leak tests on a closed test system or device, all without the use of alternating current (AC) power. Capabilities include the ability is to provide a modest vacuum (less than 10 Torr) using a venturi pump, perform a pressure rise leak test, measure the gas's absolute pressure, and perform volume measurements. All operations are performed through a simple rotary control valve which controls pneumatically-operated manifold valves.

Managing for Results--Linking Performance Measures and Budgets.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McGee, William L.; Fountain, James R., Jr.

1995-01-01

The Government Accounting Standards Board notion of service efforts and accomplishments reporting is one step in a process of managing for results that includes strategic planning, development and use of performance measures of managing ongoing programs, and outputs to budgetary appropriation. Reports a trial application to one school district.…

45 CFR 2522.700 - How does evaluation differ from performance measurement?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... progress, evaluation uses scientifically-based research methods to assess the effectiveness of programs by... the reading ability of students in a program over time to a similar group of students not... example, a performance measure for a literacy program may include the percentage of students receiving...

An official American Thoracic Society policy statement: pay-for-performance in pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine.

PubMed

Kahn, Jeremy M; Scales, Damon C; Au, David H; Carson, Shannon S; Curtis, J Randall; Dudley, R Adams; Iwashyna, Theodore J; Krishnan, Jerry A; Maurer, Janet R; Mularski, Richard; Popovich, John; Rubenfeld, Gordon D; Sinuff, Tasnim; Heffner, John E

2010-04-01

Pay-for-performance is a model for health care financing that seeks to link reimbursement to quality. The American Thoracic Society and its members have a significant stake in the development of pay-for-performance programs. To develop an official ATS policy statement addressing the role of pay-for-performance in pulmonary, critical care and sleep medicine. The statement was developed by the ATS Health Policy Committee using an iterative consensus process including an expert workshop and review by ATS committees and assemblies. Pay-for-performance is increasingly utilized by health care purchasers including the United States government. Published studies generally show that programs result in small but measurable gains in quality, although the data are heterogeneous. Pay-for-performance may result in several negative consequences, including the potential to increase costs, worsen health outcomes, and widen health disparities, among others. Future research should be directed at developing reliable and valid performance measures, increasing the efficacy of pay-for-performance programs, minimizing negative unintended consequences, and examining issues of costs and cost-effectiveness. The ATS and its members can play a key role in the design and evaluation of these programs by advancing the science of performance measurement, regularly developing quality metrics alongside clinical practice guidelines, and working with payors to make performance improvement a routine part of clinical practice. Pay-for-performance programs will expand in the coming years. Pulmonary, critical care and sleep practitioners can use these programs as an opportunity to partner with purchasers to improve health care quality.

Antenna Calibration and Measurement Equipment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rochblatt, David J.; Cortes, Manuel Vazquez

2012-01-01

A document describes the Antenna Calibration & Measurement Equipment (ACME) system that will provide the Deep Space Network (DSN) with instrumentation enabling a trained RF engineer at each complex to perform antenna calibration measurements and to generate antenna calibration data. This data includes continuous-scan auto-bore-based data acquisition with all-sky data gathering in support of 4th order pointing model generation requirements. Other data includes antenna subreflector focus, system noise temperature and tipping curves, antenna efficiency, reports system linearity, and instrument calibration. The ACME system design is based on the on-the-fly (OTF) mapping technique and architecture. ACME has contributed to the improved RF performance of the DSN by approximately a factor of two. It improved the pointing performances of the DSN antennas and productivity of its personnel and calibration engineers.

Assisting allied health in performance evaluation: a systematic review.

PubMed

Lizarondo, Lucylynn; Grimmer, Karen; Kumar, Saravana

2014-11-14

Performance evaluation raises several challenges to allied health practitioners and there is no agreed approach to measuring or monitoring allied health service performance. The aim of this review was to examine the literature on performance evaluation in healthcare to assist in the establishment of a framework that can guide the measurement and evaluation of allied health clinical service performance. This review determined the core elements of a performance evaluation system, tools for evaluating performance, and barriers to the implementation of performance evaluation. A systematic review of the literature was undertaken. Five electronic databases were used to search for relevant articles: MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsychInfo, and Academic Search Premier. Articles which focussed on any allied health performance evaluation or those which examined performance in health care in general were considered in the review. Content analysis was used to synthesise the findings from individual articles. A total of 37 articles were included in the review. The literature suggests there are core elements involved in performance evaluation which include prioritising clinical areas for measurement, setting goals, selecting performance measures, identifying sources of feedback, undertaking performance measurement, and reporting the results to relevant stakeholders. The literature describes performance evaluation as multi-dimensional, requiring information or data from more than one perspective to provide a rich assessment of performance. A range of tools or instruments are available to capture various perspectives and gather a comprehensive picture of health care quality. Every allied health care delivery system has different performance needs and will therefore require different approaches. However, there are core processes that can be used as a framework to evaluate allied health performance. A careful examination of barriers to performance evaluation and subsequent tailoring of strategies to overcome these barriers should be undertaken to achieve the aims of performance evaluation. The findings of this review should inform the development of a standardised framework that can be used to measure and evaluate allied health performance. Future research should explore the utility and overall impact of such framework in allied health service delivery.

VR-simulation cataract surgery in non-experienced trainees: evolution of surgical skill

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Söderberg, Per; Erngrund, Markus; Skarman, Eva; Nordh, Leif; Laurell, Carl-Gustaf

2011-03-01

Conclusion: The current data imply that the performance index as defined herein is a valid measure of the performance of a trainee using the virtual reality phacoemulsification simulator. Further, the performance index increase linearly with measurement cycles for less than five measurement cycles. To fully use the learning potential of the simulator more than four measurement cycles are required. Materials and methods: Altogether, 10 trainees were introduced to the simulator by an instructor and then performed a training program including four measurement cycles with three iterated measurements of the simulation at the end of each cycle. The simulation characteristics was standardized and defined in 14 parameters. The simulation was measured separately for the sculpting phase in 21 variables, and for the evacuation phase in 22 variables. A performance index based on all measured variables was estimated for the sculpting phase and the evacuation phase, respectively, for each measurement and the three measurements for each cycle were averaged. Finally, the performance as a function of measurement cycle was estimated for each trainee with regression, assuming a straight line. The estimated intercept and inclination coefficients, respectively, were finally averaged for all trainees. Results: The performance increased linearly with the number of measurement cycles both for the sculpting and for the evacuation phase.

Seven Performance Drivers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ross, Linda

2003-01-01

Recent work with automotive e-commerce clients led to the development of a performance analysis methodology called the Seven Performance Drivers, including: standards, incentives, capacity, knowledge and skill, measurement, feedback, and analysis. This methodology has been highly effective in introducing and implementing performance improvement.…

Real-time optical measurement of the dynamic body surface for use in guided radiotherapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Price, G. J.; Parkhurst, J. M.; Sharrock, P. J.; Moore, C. J.

2012-01-01

Optical measurements are increasingly used in radiotherapy. In this paper we present, in detail, the design and implementation of a multi-channel optical system optimized for fast, high spatial resolution, dynamic body surface measurement in guided therapy. We include all algorithmic modifications and calibration procedures required to create a robust, practical system for clinical use. Comprehensive static and dynamic phantom validation measurements in the radiotherapy treatment room show: conformance with simultaneously measured cone beam CT data to within 1 mm over 62% ± 8% of the surface and 2 mm over 90% ± 3%; agreement with the measured radius of a precision geometrical phantom to within 1 mm; and true real-time performance with image capture through to surface display at 23 Hz. An example patient dataset is additionally included, indicating similar performance in the clinic.

Automatic system for ionization chamber current measurements.

PubMed

Brancaccio, Franco; Dias, Mauro S; Koskinas, Marina F

2004-12-01

The present work describes an automatic system developed for current integration measurements at the Laboratório de Metrologia Nuclear of Instituto de Pesquisas Energéticas e Nucleares. This system includes software (graphic user interface and control) and a module connected to a microcomputer, by means of a commercial data acquisition card. Measurements were performed in order to check the performance and for validating the proposed design.

Determining Risk of Falls in Community Dwelling Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Using Posttest Probability.

PubMed

Lusardi, Michelle M; Fritz, Stacy; Middleton, Addie; Allison, Leslie; Wingood, Mariana; Phillips, Emma; Criss, Michelle; Verma, Sangita; Osborne, Jackie; Chui, Kevin K

Falls and their consequences are significant concerns for older adults, caregivers, and health care providers. Identification of fall risk is crucial for appropriate referral to preventive interventions. Falls are multifactorial; no single measure is an accurate diagnostic tool. There is limited information on which history question, self-report measure, or performance-based measure, or combination of measures, best predicts future falls. First, to evaluate the predictive ability of history questions, self-report measures, and performance-based measures for assessing fall risk of community-dwelling older adults by calculating and comparing posttest probability (PoTP) values for individual test/measures. Second, to evaluate usefulness of cumulative PoTP for measures in combination. To be included, a study must have used fall status as an outcome or classification variable, have a sample size of at least 30 ambulatory community-living older adults (≥65 years), and track falls occurrence for a minimum of 6 months. Studies in acute or long-term care settings, as well as those including participants with significant cognitive or neuromuscular conditions related to increased fall risk, were excluded. Searches of Medline/PubMED and Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health (CINAHL) from January 1990 through September 2013 identified 2294 abstracts concerned with fall risk assessment in community-dwelling older adults. Because the number of prospective studies of fall risk assessment was limited, retrospective studies that classified participants (faller/nonfallers) were also included. Ninety-five full-text articles met inclusion criteria; 59 contained necessary data for calculation of PoTP. The Quality Assessment Tool for Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS) was used to assess each study's methodological quality. Study design and QUADAS score determined the level of evidence. Data for calculation of sensitivity (Sn), specificity (Sp), likelihood ratios (LR), and PoTP values were available for 21 of 46 measures used as search terms. An additional 73 history questions, self-report measures, and performance-based measures were used in included articles; PoTP values could be calculated for 35. Evidence tables including PoTP values were constructed for 15 history questions, 15 self-report measures, and 26 performance-based measures. Recommendations for clinical practice were based on consensus. Variations in study quality, procedures, and statistical analyses challenged data extraction, interpretation, and synthesis. There was insufficient data for calculation of PoTP values for 63 of 119 tests. No single test/measure demonstrated strong PoTP values. Five history questions, 2 self-report measures, and 5 performance-based measures may have clinical usefulness in assessing risk of falling on the basis of cumulative PoTP. Berg Balance Scale score (≤50 points), Timed Up and Go times (≥12 seconds), and 5 times sit-to-stand times (≥12) seconds are currently the most evidence-supported functional measures to determine individual risk of future falls. Shortfalls identified during review will direct researchers to address knowledge gaps.

20 CFR 669.500 - What performance measures and standards apply to the NFJP?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... must be included in the approved plan. (b) We may develop additional performance indicators with... service area economy and local demographics of eligible MSFW's. The levels of performance for these...

Patients' satisfaction: customer relationship management as a new opportunity for quality improvement in thoracic surgery.

PubMed

Rocco, Gaetano; Brunelli, Alessandro

2012-11-01

Clinical and nonclinical indicators of performance are meant to provide the surgeon with tools to identify weaknesses to be improved. The World Health Organization's Performance Evaluation Systems represent a multidimensional approach to quality measurement based on several categories made of different indicators. Indicators for patient satisfaction may include overall perceived quality, accessibility, humanization and patient involvement, communication, and trust in health care providers. Patient satisfaction is included among nonclinical indicators of performance in thoracic surgery and is increasingly recognized as one of the outcome measures for delivered quality of care. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Hospitals' Internal Accountability

PubMed Central

Kraetschmer, Nancy; Jass, Janak; Woodman, Cheryl; Koo, Irene; Kromm, Seija K.; Deber, Raisa B.

2014-01-01

This study aimed to enhance understanding of the dimensions of accountability captured and not captured in acute care hospitals in Ontario, Canada. Based on an Ontario-wide survey and follow-up interviews with three acute care hospitals in the Greater Toronto Area, we found that the two dominant dimensions of hospital accountability being reported are financial and quality performance. These two dimensions drove both internal and external reporting. Hospitals' internal reports typically included performance measures that were required or mandated in external reports. Although respondents saw reporting as a valuable mechanism for hospitals and the health system to monitor and track progress against desired outcomes, multiple challenges with current reporting requirements were communicated, including the following: 58% of survey respondents indicated that performance-reporting resources were insufficient; manual data capture and performance reporting were prevalent, with the majority of hospitals lacking sophisticated tools or technology to effectively capture, analyze and report performance data; hospitals tended to focus on those processes and outcomes with high measurability; and 53% of respondents indicated that valuable cross-system accountability, performance measures or both were not captured by current reporting requirements. PMID:25305387

MEASUREMENT OF FINE PARTICULATE MATTER (NONVOLATILE AND SEMIVOLATILE FRACTIONS) IN FRESNO, CA

EPA Science Inventory

Semi-volatile material, including ammonium nitrate and semi-volatile organic material, is often not measured by traditionally used sampling methods including the FRM and the R&P TEOM Monitor. An intensive sampling campaign was performed at the EPA Fresno, CA Supersite during D...

Measuring comparative hospital performance.

PubMed

Griffith, John R; Alexander, Jeffrey A; Jelinek, Richard C

2002-01-01

Leading healthcare provider organizations now use a "balanced scorecard" of performance measures, expanding information reviewed at the governance level to include financial, customer, and internal performance information, as well as providing an opportunity to learn and grow to provide better strategic guidance. The approach, successfully used by other industries, uses competitor data and benchmarks to identify opportunities for improved mission achievement. This article evaluates one set of nine multidimensional hospital performance measures derived from Medicare reports (cash flow, asset turnover, mortality, complications, length of inpatient stay, cost per case, occupancy, change in occupancy, and percent of revenue from outpatient care). The study examines the content validity, reliability and sensitivity, validity of comparison, and independence and concludes that seven of the nine measures (all but the two occupancy measures) represent a potentially useful set for evaluating most U.S. hospitals. This set reflects correctable differences in performance between hospitals serving similar populations, that is, the measures reflect relative performance and identify opportunities to make the organization more successful.

Hydrograph matching method for measuring model performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ewen, John

2011-09-01

SummaryDespite all the progress made over the years on developing automatic methods for analysing hydrographs and measuring the performance of rainfall-runoff models, automatic methods cannot yet match the power and flexibility of the human eye and brain. Very simple approaches are therefore being developed that mimic the way hydrologists inspect and interpret hydrographs, including the way that patterns are recognised, links are made by eye, and hydrological responses and errors are studied and remembered. In this paper, a dynamic programming algorithm originally designed for use in data mining is customised for use with hydrographs. It generates sets of "rays" that are analogous to the visual links made by the hydrologist's eye when linking features or times in one hydrograph to the corresponding features or times in another hydrograph. One outcome from this work is a new family of performance measures called "visual" performance measures. These can measure differences in amplitude and timing, including the timing errors between simulated and observed hydrographs in model calibration. To demonstrate this, two visual performance measures, one based on the Nash-Sutcliffe Efficiency and the other on the mean absolute error, are used in a total of 34 split-sample calibration-validation tests for two rainfall-runoff models applied to the Hodder catchment, northwest England. The customised algorithm, called the Hydrograph Matching Algorithm, is very simple to apply; it is given in a few lines of pseudocode.

DISCOVER-AQ Acoustics : Measurement and Data Report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-09-01

The following report documents the acoustic measurements that supplemented the September 2013 NASA DISCOVER-AQ flight tests in Houston, Texas and the corresponding data set developed from those measurements. These data include aircraft performance an...

Woods. Industrial Arts. Performance Objectives. Junior High School.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bunch, Edwood; And Others

Several intermediate performance objectives and corresponding criterion measures are listed for a woodworking course for seventh, eighth, and ninth grade students. The seventh grade section includes seven terminal objectives for a 9-week basic hand woodworking course which includes planning and layout, skill in the use of hand tools, construction…

Domains of the Florida Performance Measurement System.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Florida State Dept. of Education, Tallahassee.

This monograph sets forth in detail the concepts included in the five domains of teaching as identified by the Florida Coalition for the Development of a Performance Evaluation System. The first domain, planning, includes the concepts: (1) content coverage; (2) utilization of instructional materials; (3) activity structure; (4) goal focusing; and…

48 CFR 42.1501 - General.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... System (CPARS) and Past Performance Information Retrieval System (PPIRS) metric tools to measure the... CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Contractor Performance Information 42.1501 General. (a) Past performance information (including the ratings and supporting narratives) is relevant information, for future...

48 CFR 42.1501 - General.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... Reporting System (CPARS) and Past Performance Information Retrieval System (PPIRS) metric tools to measure... CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES Contractor Performance Information 42.1501 General. (a) Past performance information (including the ratings and supporting narratives) is relevant information, for future...

Perkins Core Performance Measures: Results and Targets, 2001-2002.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McHewitt, Earl R.; Taylor, Garry

This report addresses the Virginia Community College System's (VCCS) core performance standards and measures for the years 2001-2002. There are four core indicators through which the VCCS is assessed. They are the following: (1) student attainment including academic and technical skills; (2) completion/graduation rate using first time, full-time…

Chemical, Biological, and Radiological (CBR) Contamination Survivability: Large Item Interiors

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-06-22

materials of construction, paint type, and surface condition ( pretest and posttest ), including cleanliness (mud, grease, etc.). Photographs should be...35 g. Pretest and posttest ME functional performance characteristics (when measured) used as the measure of the SUT’s mission performance before and...materials and their finishes will be reported in a form that can be compared with pretest and posttest hardness functional performance data. 6.2 Chemical

Functional assessment and performance evaluation for assistive robotic manipulators: Literature review.

PubMed

Chung, Cheng-Shiu; Wang, Hongwu; Cooper, Rory A

2013-07-01

The user interface development of assistive robotic manipulators can be traced back to the 1960s. Studies include kinematic designs, cost-efficiency, user experience involvements, and performance evaluation. This paper is to review studies conducted with clinical trials using activities of daily living (ADLs) tasks to evaluate performance categorized using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) frameworks, in order to give the scope of current research and provide suggestions for future studies. We conducted a literature search of assistive robotic manipulators from 1970 to 2012 in PubMed, Google Scholar, and University of Pittsburgh Library System - PITTCat. Twenty relevant studies were identified. Studies were separated into two broad categories: user task preferences and user-interface performance measurements of commercialized and developing assistive robotic manipulators. The outcome measures and ICF codes associated with the performance evaluations are reported. Suggestions for the future studies include (1) standardized ADL tasks for the quantitative and qualitative evaluation of task efficiency and performance to build comparable measures between research groups, (2) studies relevant to the tasks from user priority lists and ICF codes, and (3) appropriate clinical functional assessment tests with consideration of constraints in assistive robotic manipulator user interfaces. In addition, these outcome measures will help physicians and therapists build standardized tools while prescribing and assessing assistive robotic manipulators.

50 CFR 648.230 - Catch quotas and other restrictions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... measures. Based on this review, the Spiny Dogfish Monitoring Committee shall recommend to the Joint Spiny... be set within the range of zero to the maximum allowed. The measures that may be recommended include...) Trip limits; (5) Changes to the Northeast Region SBRM, including the CV-based performance standard...

A portable battery for objective, non-obstrusive measures of human performances

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kennedy, R. S.

1984-01-01

The need for a standardized battery of human performance tests to measure the effects of various treatments is pointed out. Progress in such a program is reported. Three batteries are available which differ in length and the number of tests in the battery. All tests are implemented on a portable, lap held, briefcase size microprocessor. Performances measured include: information processing, memory, visual perception, reasoning, and motor skills, programs to determine norms, reliabilities, stabilities, factor structure of tests, comparisons with marker tests, apparatus suitability. Rationale for the battery is provided.

Correlation of Space Shuttle Landing Performance with Post-Flight Cardiovascular Dysfunction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McCluskey, R.

2004-01-01

Introduction: Microgravity induces cardiovascular adaptations resulting in orthostatic intolerance on re-exposure to normal gravity. Orthostasis could interfere with performance of complex tasks during the re-entry phase of Shuttle landings. This study correlated measures of Shuttle landing performance with post-flight indicators of orthostatic intolerance. Methods: Relevant Shuttle landing performance parameters routinely recorded at touchdown by NASA included downrange and crossrange distances, airspeed, and vertical speed. Measures of cardiovascular changes were calculated from operational stand tests performed in the immediate post-flight period on mission commanders from STS-41 to STS-66. Stand test data analyzed included maximum standing heart rate, mean increase in maximum heart rate, minimum standing systolic blood pressure, and mean decrease in standing systolic blood pressure. Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated with the null hypothesis that there was no statistically significant linear correlation between stand test results and Shuttle landing performance. A correlation coefficient? 0.5 with a p<0.05 was considered significant. Results: There were no significant linear correlations between landing performance and measures of post-flight cardiovascular dysfunction. Discussion: There was no evidence that post-flight cardiovascular stand test data correlated with Shuttle landing performance. This implies that variations in landing performance were not due to space flight-induced orthostatic intolerance.

Effects of performance measure implementation on clinical manager and provider motivation.

PubMed

Damschroder, Laura J; Robinson, Claire H; Francis, Joseph; Bentley, Douglas R; Krein, Sarah L; Rosland, Ann-Marie; Hofer, Timothy P; Kerr, Eve A

2014-12-01

Clinical performance measurement has been a key element of efforts to transform the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). However, there are a number of signs that current performance measurement systems used within and outside the VHA may be reaching the point of maximum benefit to care and in some settings, may be resulting in negative consequences to care, including overtreatment and diminished attention to patient needs and preferences. Our research group has been involved in a long-standing partnership with the office responsible for clinical performance measurement in the VHA to understand and develop potential strategies to mitigate the unintended consequences of measurement. Our aim was to understand how the implementation of diabetes performance measures (PMs) influences management actions and day-to-day clinical practice. This is a mixed methods study design based on quantitative administrative data to select study facilities and quantitative data from semi-structured interviews. Sixty-two network-level and facility-level executives, managers, front-line providers and staff participated in the study. Qualitative content analyses were guided by a team-based consensus approach using verbatim interview transcripts. A published interpretive motivation theory framework is used to describe potential contributions of local implementation strategies to unintended consequences of PMs. Implementation strategies used by management affect providers' response to PMs, which in turn potentially undermines provision of high-quality patient-centered care. These include: 1) feedback reports to providers that are dissociated from a realistic capability to address performance gaps; 2) evaluative criteria set by managers that are at odds with patient-centered care; and 3) pressure created by managers' narrow focus on gaps in PMs that is viewed as more punitive than motivating. Next steps include working with VHA leaders to develop and test implementation approaches to help ensure that the next generation of PMs motivate truly patient-centered care and are clinically meaningful.

Consensus on measurement properties and feasibility of performance tests for the exercise and sport sciences: a Delphi study.

PubMed

Robertson, Sam; Kremer, Peter; Aisbett, Brad; Tran, Jacqueline; Cerin, Ester

2017-12-01

Performance tests are used for multiple purposes in exercise and sport science. Ensuring that a test displays an appropriate level of measurement properties for use within a population is important to ensure confidence in test findings. The aim of this study was to obtain subject matter expert consensus on the measurement and feasibility properties that should be considered for performance tests used in the exercise and sport sciences and how these should be defined. This information was used to develop a checklist for broader dissemination. A two-round Delphi study was undertaken including 33 exercise scientists, academics and sport scientists. Participants were asked to rate the importance of a range of measurement properties relevant to performance tests in exercise and sport science. Responses were obtained in binary and Likert-scale formats, with consensus defined as achieving 67% agreement on each question. Consensus was reached on definitions and terminology for all items. Ten level 1 items (those that achieved consensus on all four questions) and nine level 2 items (those achieving consensus on ≥2 questions) were included. Both levels were included in the final checklist. The checklist developed from this study can be used to inform decision-making and test selection for practitioners and researchers in the exercise and sport sciences. This can facilitate knowledge sharing and performance comparisons across sub-disciplines, thereby improving existing field practice and research methodological quality.

Reliability of Performance-Based Clinical Measurements to Assess Shoulder Girdle Kinematics and Positioning: Systematic Review.

PubMed

D'hondt, Norman E; Kiers, Henri; Pool, Jan J M; Hacquebord, Sijmen T; Terwee, Caroline B; Veeger, Dirkjan H E J

2017-01-01

Deviant shoulder girdle movement is suggested as an eminent factor in the etiology of shoulder pain. Reliable measurements of shoulder girdle kinematics are a prerequisite for optimizing clinical management strategies. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the reliability, measurement error, and internal consistency of measurements with performance-based clinical tests for shoulder girdle kinematics and positioning in patients with shoulder pain. The MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and SPORTDiscus databases were systematically searched from inception to August 2015. Articles published in Dutch, English, or German were included if they involved the evaluation of at least one of the measurement properties of interest. Two reviewers independently evaluated the methodological quality per studied measurement property with the 4-point-rating scale of the COSMIN (COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments) checklist, extracted data, and assessed the adequacy of the measurement properties. Forty studies comprising more than 30 clinical tests were included. Actual reported measurements of the tests were categorized into: (1) positional measurement methods, (2) measurement methods to determine dynamic characteristics, and (3) tests to diagnose impairments of shoulder girdle function. Best evidence synthesis of the tests was performed per measurement for each measurement property. All studies had significant limitations, including incongruence between test description and actual reported measurements and a lack of reporting on minimal important change. In general, the methodological quality of the selected studies was fair to poor. High-quality evidence indicates that measurements obtained with the Modified Scapular Assistance Test are not reliable for clinical use. Sound recommendations for the use of other tests could not be made due to inadequate evidence. Across studies, diversity in description, performance, and interpretation of similar tests was present, and different criteria were used to establish similar diagnoses, mostly without taking into account a clinically meaningful context. Consequently, these tests lack face validity, which hampers their clinical use. Further research on validity and how to integrate a clinically meaningful context of movement into clinical tests is warranted. © 2017 American Physical Therapy Association

Subjective rating scales as a workload

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bird, K. L.

1981-01-01

A multidimensional bipolar-adjective rating scale is employed as a subjective measure of operator workload in the performance of a one-axis tracking task. The rating scale addressed several dimensions of workload, including cognitive, physical, and perceptual task loading as well as fatigue and stress effects. Eight subjects performed a one-axis tracking task (with six levels of difficulty) and rated these tasks on several workload dimensions. Performance measures were tracking error RMS (root-mean square) and the standard deviation of control stick output. Significant relationships were observed between these performance measures and skill required, task complexity, attention level, task difficulty, task demands, and stress level.

Optical Fabrication and Measurement AXAF and CIRS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Engelhaupt, Darell

1997-01-01

This paper presents a final report on Optical Fabrication and Measurement AXAF (Advanced X-Ray Astrophysics Facility) and CIRS (Composite Infrared Spectrometer) from July 12, 1994 to August 16, 1996.. This paper includes specific tasks to be performed. The tasks are as follows: 1) Preparation and Characterization of Zerodur Glass Samples; 2) Develop and Fabricate AXAF and CIRS Metrology Tooling; 3) Update AXAF Technical Data Base; and 4) Perform Fabrication Related Metrology Tasks for CIRS. This paper also includes final activities from the July, 1996 report to August 1996.

Ground truth data for test sites (SL-4). [thermal radiation brightness temperature and solar radiation measurments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1974-01-01

Field measurements performed simultaneous with Skylab overpass in order to provide comparative calibration and performance evaluation measurements for the EREP sensors are presented. Wavelength region covered include: solar radiation (400 to 1300 nanometer), and thermal radiation (8 to 14 micrometer). Measurements consisted of general conditions and near surface meteorology, atmospheric temperature and humidity vs altitude, the thermal brightness temperature, total and diffuse solar radiation, direct solar radiation (subsequently analyzed for optical depth/transmittance), and target reflectivity/radiance. The particular instruments used are discussed along with analyses performed. Detailed instrument operation, calibrations, techniques, and errors are given.

OLEM Performance Assessment Information

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This asset includes a variety of data sets that measure the performance of Office of Land and Emergency Management (OLEM) programs in support of the Office of the Chief Financial Officer's Annual Commitment System (ACS) and Performance Evaluation Reporting System (PERS). Information is drawn from OLEM's ACRES, RCRAInfo, CERCLIS/SEMS, ICIS, and LUST4 systems, as well as input manually by authorized individuals in OLEM's program offices. Information is reviewed by OLEM program staff prior to being pushed to ACS and entered into PERS. This data asset also pulls in certain performance information input directly by Regional Office staff into ACS. Information is managed by the Performance Assessment Tool (PAT) and displayed in the PAT Dashboard.Information in this asset include:--Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) of 1993: Measures reported for Innovations, Partnerships and Communications Office (IPCO), the Office of Brownfields and Land Revitalization (OBLR), the Office of Emergency Management (OEM), the Office of Resource Conservation and Recovery (ORCR), the Office of Superfund Remediation and Technology Innovation (OSRTI), and the Office of Underground Storage Tanks (OUST).-- Performance and Environmental Results System (PERS): Includes OLEM's information on performance results and baselines for the EPA Annual Plan and Budget.--Key Performance Indicators: OLEM has identified five KPIs that are tracked annually.--Integrated Cleanup Initiative: A pilot pe

The assessment of function: How is it measured? A clinical perspective

PubMed Central

Reiman, Michael P; Manske, Robert C

2011-01-01

Testing for outcome or performance can take many forms; including multiple iterations of self-reported measures of function (an assessment of the individual’s perceived dysfunction) and/or clinical special tests (which are primarily assessments of impairments). Typically absent within these testing mechanisms is whether or not one can perform a specific task associated with function. The paper will operationally define function, discuss the construct of function within the disablement model, will overview the multi-dimensional nature of ‘function’ as a concept, will examine the current evidence for functional testing methods, and will propose a functional testing continuum. Limitations of functional performance testing will be discussed including recommendations for future research. PMID:22547919

Framework for measuring adaptive knowledge-rich systems performance.

PubMed

Bushko, Renata G

2005-01-01

The universe is non repeatable in nature--most of events cannot be prestated and do not repeat themselves. The only way to create systems that are truly useful is to make them adaptive (able to reason by analogy and learn) and rich in knowledge (including common sense knowledge). Adaptive and knowledge-rich health management could get us closer to errorless health care where small incremental adjustments happen all the time preventing occurrence of an error. In the era of adaptive systems we need to have a way to evaluate their performance. Are they truly adaptive? How adaptive are they? Are they accurate enough? Are they fast enough? Are they cost effective? This chapter presents general framework for measuring adaptive knowledge-rich systems' performance and includes among others definitions of adaptiveness factor, britt (a unit of brittleness) and uso-quant (unit of usefulness of a piece of knowledge). Measuring adaptive knowledge-rich systems performance is one of the most important research areas that can have a big pay-off in healthcare now and in the future.

Ice Accretions and Icing Effects for Modern Airfoils

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Addy, Harold E., Jr.

2000-01-01

Icing tests were conducted to document ice shapes formed on three different two-dimensional airfoils and to study the effects of the accreted ice on aerodynamic performance. The models tested were representative of airfoil designs in current use for each of the commercial transport, business jet, and general aviation categories of aircraft. The models were subjected to a range of icing conditions in an icing wind tunnel. The conditions were selected primarily from the Federal Aviation Administration's Federal Aviation Regulations 25 Appendix C atmospheric icing conditions. A few large droplet icing conditions were included. To verify the aerodynamic performance measurements, molds were made of selected ice shapes formed in the icing tunnel. Castings of the ice were made from the molds and placed on a model in a dry, low-turbulence wind tunnel where precision aerodynamic performance measurements were made. Documentation of all the ice shapes and the aerodynamic performance measurements made during the icing tunnel tests is included in this report. Results from the dry, low-turbulence wind tunnel tests are also presented.

Select Methodology for Validating Advanced Satellite Measurement Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Larar, Allen M.; Zhou, Daniel K.; Liu, Xi; Smith, William L.

2008-01-01

Advanced satellite sensors are tasked with improving global measurements of the Earth's atmosphere, clouds, and surface to enable enhancements in weather prediction, climate monitoring capability, and environmental change detection. Measurement system validation is crucial to achieving this goal and maximizing research and operational utility of resultant data. Field campaigns including satellite under-flights with well calibrated FTS sensors aboard high-altitude aircraft are an essential part of the validation task. This presentation focuses on an overview of validation methodology developed for assessment of high spectral resolution infrared systems, and includes results of preliminary studies performed to investigate the performance of the Infrared Atmospheric Sounding Interferometer (IASI) instrument aboard the MetOp-A satellite.

Input Device Characteristics Contribute to Performance during Training to Operate a Simulated Micro-Unmanned Aerial Vehicle

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-10-01

mission, participants were given the NASA Task Load Index ( NASA TLX ) to measure subjective workload. Additional performance measures included mission...16 NASA TLX Workload Analyses...worksheet (See Appendix C), the Hidden Patterns Test (ETS, 1976), and an electronic form of the NASA Task Load Index ( TLX ; Hart & Staveland, 1988). The

Faustmann and the forestry tradition of outcome-based performance measures

Treesearch

Peter J. Ince

1999-01-01

The concept of land expectation value developed by Martin Faustmann may serve as a paradigm for outcome-based performance measures in public forest management if the concept of forest equity value is broadened to include social and environmental benefits and costs, and sustainability. However, anticipation and accurate evaluation of all benefits and costs appears to...

A systematic review of clinimetric properties of measurements of motivation for children aged 5-16 years with a physical disability or motor delay.

PubMed

Miller, Laura; Ziviani, Jenny; Boyd, Roslyn Nancy

2014-02-01

The purpose of this systematical review was to appraise the clinimetric properties of measures of motivation in children aged 5-16 years with a physical disability or motor delay. Six electronic databases were searched. Studies were included if they reported measuring motivation in school-aged children across occupational performance areas. Two reviewers independently identified measures from included articles. Evaluation of measures was completed using the COSMIN (consensus-based standards for the selection of health measurement instruments) checklist. A total of 13,529 papers were retrieved, 15 reporting measurement of motivation in this population. Two measures met criteria: Dimensions of Mastery Questionnaire (DMQ) and Pediatric Volitional Questionnaire (PVQ). There was evidence of adequate validity for DMQ, and preliminary evidence of test-retest reliability. Psychometric evidence for PVQ was poor. Both measures demonstrated good clinical utility. The large number of retrieved papers highlights the importance being attributed to motivation in clinical studies, although measurement is seldom performed. Both identified measures show promise but further psychometric research is required.

Design fabrication and installation of a yaw measuring device

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1979-01-01

The results of work performed in the development and testing of a yaw measuring device are summarized. A review of the yaw measurement method; and the techniques and hardware needed for its implementation are presented. A description and summary of the tests performed at the U.S. Bureau of Mines Bruceton facility are included. Conclusions are summarized and recommendations for a unit capable of operation in a mine environment are presented.

ISPI's Value Proposition: Two Examples.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Swinney, John

2003-01-01

Describes two experiences that illustrate the value of the International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI). Highlights include measuring organizational results; identifying opportunities to improve performance; training as part of the solution; the role of ISD (instructional systems design); HPT (human performance technology) issues; and…

A consensus-established set of important indicators of pediatric emergency department performance.

PubMed

Hung, Geoffrey R; Chalut, Dominic

2008-01-01

Quality assurance is a new and important area of research in pediatric emergency medicine (PEM). There are few studies that describe which performance indicators best represent the PEM practice. The primary study objective is to construct a set of performance indicators that have been selected by current and former pediatric emergency department (PED) medical directors as most useful in assessing PED performance. The secondary objective is to assess which indicators are currently measured to assess performance in PEDs. Current and former directors of accredited Canadian PEM programs were considered as eligible participants. A list of indicators was generated by a survey (item pool generation); this list was refined by clarifying unclear terms or eliminating redundant and unquantifiable performance indicators (item scaling); PED directors were asked to rate each item of this refined list to indicate which indicators were more useful in assessing PED performance (item prioritization). A novel ranking formula was used to prioritize those items considered most useful by a larger proportion of respondents, using the provided rating scores. Fourteen current and former medical directors were considered eligible participants. Indicators related to patient morbidity and mortality, adverse outcomes, return visits, patient length of stay (LOS), and waiting times were considered to be more useful. Less useful indicators included the number of deaths, daily census, number of incident reports, and individual physicians' admission rates. The most commonly measured PED performance indicators included the rate of patients who left without being seen, patient LOS, and the waiting time until being seen by a physician by triage category. The top quartile of performance indicators considered most useful by participants included indicators that reflected clinical outcomes, LOS, and waiting times. A dichotomy may exist between those performance indicators that PED directors considered more useful and those indicators that are currently measured.

Determining Risk of Falls in Community Dwelling Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Using Posttest Probability

PubMed Central

Fritz, Stacy; Middleton, Addie; Allison, Leslie; Wingood, Mariana; Phillips, Emma; Criss, Michelle; Verma, Sangita; Osborne, Jackie; Chui, Kevin K.

2017-01-01

Background: Falls and their consequences are significant concerns for older adults, caregivers, and health care providers. Identification of fall risk is crucial for appropriate referral to preventive interventions. Falls are multifactorial; no single measure is an accurate diagnostic tool. There is limited information on which history question, self-report measure, or performance-based measure, or combination of measures, best predicts future falls. Purpose: First, to evaluate the predictive ability of history questions, self-report measures, and performance-based measures for assessing fall risk of community-dwelling older adults by calculating and comparing posttest probability (PoTP) values for individual test/measures. Second, to evaluate usefulness of cumulative PoTP for measures in combination. Data Sources: To be included, a study must have used fall status as an outcome or classification variable, have a sample size of at least 30 ambulatory community-living older adults (≥65 years), and track falls occurrence for a minimum of 6 months. Studies in acute or long-term care settings, as well as those including participants with significant cognitive or neuromuscular conditions related to increased fall risk, were excluded. Searches of Medline/PubMED and Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health (CINAHL) from January 1990 through September 2013 identified 2294 abstracts concerned with fall risk assessment in community-dwelling older adults. Study Selection: Because the number of prospective studies of fall risk assessment was limited, retrospective studies that classified participants (faller/nonfallers) were also included. Ninety-five full-text articles met inclusion criteria; 59 contained necessary data for calculation of PoTP. The Quality Assessment Tool for Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS) was used to assess each study's methodological quality. Data Extraction: Study design and QUADAS score determined the level of evidence. Data for calculation of sensitivity (Sn), specificity (Sp), likelihood ratios (LR), and PoTP values were available for 21 of 46 measures used as search terms. An additional 73 history questions, self-report measures, and performance-based measures were used in included articles; PoTP values could be calculated for 35. Data Synthesis: Evidence tables including PoTP values were constructed for 15 history questions, 15 self-report measures, and 26 performance-based measures. Recommendations for clinical practice were based on consensus. Limitations: Variations in study quality, procedures, and statistical analyses challenged data extraction, interpretation, and synthesis. There was insufficient data for calculation of PoTP values for 63 of 119 tests. Conclusions: No single test/measure demonstrated strong PoTP values. Five history questions, 2 self-report measures, and 5 performance-based measures may have clinical usefulness in assessing risk of falling on the basis of cumulative PoTP. Berg Balance Scale score (≤50 points), Timed Up and Go times (≥12 seconds), and 5 times sit-to-stand times (≥12) seconds are currently the most evidence-supported functional measures to determine individual risk of future falls. Shortfalls identified during review will direct researchers to address knowledge gaps. PMID:27537070

Development and testing of thermal energy storage modules for use in active solar heating and cooling systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Parker, J. C.

1981-01-01

The project development requirements and criteria are presented along with technical data for the modules. Performance tests included: ducting, temperature, pressure and air flow measurements, dry and wet bulb temperature; duct pressure measurements; and air conditioning apparatus checks; installation, operation, and maintenance instructions are included.

4 CFR 9.1 - GAO Senior Executive Service.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... measured on the basis of individual and organizational performance (including such factors as improvements... performance and success in meeting equal employment opportunity goals); (3) Assure that senior executives are...

More than a score: a qualitative study of ancillary benefits of performance measurement.

PubMed

Powell, Adam A; White, Katie M; Partin, Melissa R; Halek, Krysten; Hysong, Sylvia J; Zarling, Edwin; Kirsh, Susan R; Bloomfield, Hanna E

2014-08-01

Prior research has examined clinical effects of performance measurement systems. To the extent that non-clinical effects have been researched, the focus has been on negative unintended consequences. Yet, these same systems may also have ancillary benefits for patients and providers--that is, benefits that extend beyond improvements on clinical measures. The purpose of this study is to identify and describe potential ancillary benefits of performance measures as perceived by primary care staff and facility leaders in a large US healthcare system. In-person individual semistructured interviews were conducted with 59 primary care staff and facility leaders at four Veterans Health Administration facilities. Transcribed interviews were coded and organised into thematic categories. Interviewed staff observed that local performance measurement implementation practices can result in increased patient knowledge and motivation. These effects on patients can lead to improved performance scores and additional ancillary benefits. Performance measurement implementation can also directly result in ancillary benefits for the patients and providers. Patients may experience greater satisfaction with care and psychosocial benefits associated with increased provider-patient communication. Ancillary benefits of performance measurement for providers include increased pride in individual or organisational performance and greater confidence that one's practice is grounded in evidence-based medicine. A comprehensive understanding of the effects of performance measurement systems needs to incorporate ancillary benefits as well as effects on clinical performance scores and negative unintended consequences. Although clinical performance has been the focus of most evaluations of performance measurement to date, both patient care and provider satisfaction may improve more rapidly if all three categories of effects are considered when designing and evaluating performance measurement systems. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

Space Shuttle Projects

NASA Image and Video Library

1994-07-01

In this photograph, astronaut Carl Walz performs the Performance Assessment Workstation (PAWS) experiment at the flight deck of the Space Shuttle Orbiter Columbia during the STS-65 mission. Present day astronauts are subject to a variety of stresses during spaceflight. These include microgravity, physical isolation, confinement, lack of privacy, fatigue, and changing work/rest cycles. The purpose of this experiment is to determine the effects of microgravity upon thinking skills critical to the success of operational tasks in space. The principle objective is to distinguish between the effects of microgravity on specific information-processing skills affecting performance and those of fatigue caused by long work periods. To measure these skills, the investigators use a set of computerized performance tests called the Performance Assessment Workstation, which is based on current theoretical models of human performance. The tests were selected by analyzing tasks related to space missions and their hypothesized sensitivity to microgravity. Multiple subjective measures of cumulative fatigue and changing mood states are also included for interpreting performance data.

STS-65 Mission Onboard Photograph

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1994-01-01

In this photograph, astronaut Carl Walz performs the Performance Assessment Workstation (PAWS) experiment at the flight deck of the Space Shuttle Orbiter Columbia during the STS-65 mission. Present day astronauts are subject to a variety of stresses during spaceflight. These include microgravity, physical isolation, confinement, lack of privacy, fatigue, and changing work/rest cycles. The purpose of this experiment is to determine the effects of microgravity upon thinking skills critical to the success of operational tasks in space. The principle objective is to distinguish between the effects of microgravity on specific information-processing skills affecting performance and those of fatigue caused by long work periods. To measure these skills, the investigators use a set of computerized performance tests called the Performance Assessment Workstation, which is based on current theoretical models of human performance. The tests were selected by analyzing tasks related to space missions and their hypothesized sensitivity to microgravity. Multiple subjective measures of cumulative fatigue and changing mood states are also included for interpreting performance data.

Physical performance in relation to body composition and bone mineral density in healthy, overweight, and obese postmenopausal women.

PubMed

Shin, Hyehyung; Liu, Pei-Yang; Panton, Lynn B; Ilich, Jasminka Z

2014-01-01

Diminished physical performance can be detrimental among the older adults, causing falls and subsequent fractures, loss of independence, and increased morbidity and mortality rates. Therefore, it is important to maintain functional ability from the early onset of aging. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between physical performance measures and body composition (bone, fat, and lean mass) in healthy, overweight and obese, early postmenopausal white women. A total of 97 participants aged 56.0 (4.4) years (mean (SD)) with body mass index of 31.0 (4.6) kg/m(2) were included. Weight and height were recorded and 3 days of dietary records and physical activity were collected. Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry measurements for body composition and bone mineral density were performed. Fasting blood samples were used for serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25OHD) analysis. Measures of physical performance included handgrip strength, 8-meter walking speed, one-leg-stance time, 8-foot Timed Get-Up-and-Go Test, and chair sit-to-stand test. Results showed that higher lean mass was related to better physical performance on items assessing body strength, including handgrip (r ranged from 0.22 to 0.25, P < .05) while higher body fat was related to the poorer physical performance in each of the assessed measures. Bone mineral density of the forearm was positively related to the handgrip strength (r = 0.207, P < .05). In regression analyses (controlled for age, weight, height, serum 25OHD status, calcium intake, physical activity, and smoking), fat mass of the lower extremities was inversely related to walking speed, one-leg-stance time, and Get-Up-and-Go measures, all crucial for mobility (r(2) = 0.13-0.23, P < .05). Overall, higher fat and lower lean mass was related to poorer physical performance, while forearm bone mineral density was related to the handgrip strength only. Further investigation may be beneficial for a better understanding of how body composition may prevent decline in physical performance among overweight/obese, mid-age, and older women.

Adherence to ACC/AHA performance measures for myocardial infarction in six Middle-Eastern countries: association with in-hospital mortality and clinical characteristics.

PubMed

Longenecker, Joseph C; Alfaddagh, Abdulhamied; Zubaid, Mohammad; Rashed, Wafa; Ridha, Mustafa; Alenezi, Fahad; Alhamdan, Rashed; Akbar, Mousa; Bulbanat, Bassam Y; Al-Suwaidi, Jassim

2013-08-20

This study assesses adherence to performance measures for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in six Middle-Eastern countries, and its association with in-hospital mortality. Few studies have previously assessed these performance measures in the Middle East. This cohort study followed 5813 patients with suspected AMI upon admission to discharge. Proportions of eligible participants receiving the following performance measures were calculated: medications within 24 hours of admission (aspirin and beta-blocker) and on discharge (aspirin, beta-blockers, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors [ACEI], and lipid-lowering therapy), reperfusion therapy, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol measurement. A composite adherence score was calculated. Associations between performance measures and clinical characteristics were assessed using multivariate logistic regression. Adherence was above 90% for aspirin, reperfusion, and lipid-lowering therapies; between 60% and 82% for beta-blockers, ACEI, statin therapy, time-to-balloon within 90 minutes, and LDL-cholesterol measurement; and 33% for time-to-needle within 30 minutes. After adjustment, factors associated with high composite performance score (>85%) included Asian ethnicity (Odds Ratio, OR=1.3; p=0.01) and history of hyperlipidemia (OR=1.4; p=0.001). Factors associated with a lower score included atypical symptoms (OR=0.6; p=0.003) and high GRACE score (OR=0.6; p<0.001). Lower in-hospital mortality was associated with provision of reperfusion therapy (OR=0.54, p=0.047) and beta-blockers within 24 hours (OR=0.33, p=0.005). Overall adherence was lowest among the highest-risk patients. Lower in-hospital mortality was independently associated with adherence to early performance measures, comprising observational evidence for their effectiveness in a Middle East cohort. These data provide a focus for regional quality improvement initiatives and research. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

42 CFR 401.715 - Selection and use of performance measures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... switch to the standard measure within 6 months or submit additional scientific justification and receive... the discussion about the proposed alternative measure, including a summary of all pertinent arguments... another qualified entity, no new scientific evidence on the measure is available, and the subsequent...

42 CFR 401.715 - Selection and use of performance measures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... switch to the standard measure within 6 months or submit additional scientific justification and receive... the discussion about the proposed alternative measure, including a summary of all pertinent arguments... another qualified entity, no new scientific evidence on the measure is available, and the subsequent...

42 CFR 401.715 - Selection and use of performance measures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... switch to the standard measure within 6 months or submit additional scientific justification and receive... the discussion about the proposed alternative measure, including a summary of all pertinent arguments... another qualified entity, no new scientific evidence on the measure is available, and the subsequent...

Rhythms of Mental Performance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Valdez, Pablo; Reilly, Thomas; Waterhouse, Jim

2008-01-01

Cognitive performance is affected by an individual's characteristics and the environment, as well as by the nature of the task and the amount of practice at it. Mental performance tests range in complexity and include subjective estimates of mood, simple objective tests (reaction time), and measures of complex performance that require decisions to…

Development of new methodologies for evaluating the energy performance of new commercial buildings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Song, Suwon

The concept of Measurement and Verification (M&V) of a new building continues to become more important because efficient design alone is often not sufficient to deliver an efficient building. Simulation models that are calibrated to measured data can be used to evaluate the energy performance of new buildings if they are compared to energy baselines such as similar buildings, energy codes, and design standards. Unfortunately, there is a lack of detailed M&V methods and analysis methods to measure energy savings from new buildings that would have hypothetical energy baselines. Therefore, this study developed and demonstrated several new methodologies for evaluating the energy performance of new commercial buildings using a case-study building in Austin, Texas. First, three new M&V methods were developed to enhance the previous generic M&V framework for new buildings, including: (1) The development of a method to synthesize weather-normalized cooling energy use from a correlation of Motor Control Center (MCC) electricity use when chilled water use is unavailable, (2) The development of an improved method to analyze measured solar transmittance against incidence angle for sample glazing using different solar sensor types, including Eppley PSP and Li-Cor sensors, and (3) The development of an improved method to analyze chiller efficiency and operation at part-load conditions. Second, three new calibration methods were developed and analyzed, including: (1) A new percentile analysis added to the previous signature method for use with a DOE-2 calibration, (2) A new analysis to account for undocumented exhaust air in DOE-2 calibration, and (3) An analysis of the impact of synthesized direct normal solar radiation using the Erbs correlation on DOE-2 simulation. Third, an analysis of the actual energy savings compared to three different energy baselines was performed, including: (1) Energy Use Index (EUI) comparisons with sub-metered data, (2) New comparisons against Standards 90.1-1989 and 90.1-2001, and (3) A new evaluation of the performance of selected Energy Conservation Design Measures (ECDMs). Finally, potential energy savings were also simulated from selected improvements, including: minimum supply air flow, undocumented exhaust air, and daylighting.

Long-term CF6 engine performance deterioration: Evaluation of engine S/N 451-380

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kramer, W. H.; Smith, J. J.

1978-01-01

The performance testing and analytical teardown of CF6-6D engine serial number 451-380 which was recently removed from a DC-10 aircraft is summarized. The investigative test program was conducted inbound prior to normal overhaul/refurbishment. The performance testing included an inbound test, a test following cleaning of the low pressure turbine airfoils, and a final test after leading edge rework and cleaning the stage one fan blades. The analytical teardown consisted of detailed disassembly inspection measurements and airfoil surface finish checks of the as-received deteriorated hardware. Aspects discussed include the analysis of the test cell performance data, a complete analytical teardown report with a detailed description of all observed hardware distress, and an analytical assessment of the performance loss (deterioration) relating measured hardware conditions to losses in both specific fuel comsumption and exhaust gas temperature.

Long-term CF6 engine performance deterioration: Evaluation of engine S/N 451-479

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kramer, W. H.; Smith, J. J.

1978-01-01

The performance testing and analytical teardown of CF6-6D engine is summarized. This engine had completed its initial installation on DC-10 aircraft. The investigative test program was conducted inbound prior to normal overhaul/refurbishment. The performance testing included an inbound test, a test following cleaning of the low pressure turbine airfoils, and a final test after leading edge rework and cleaning the stage one fan blades. The analytical teardown consisted of detailed disassembly inspection measurements and airfoil surface finish checks of the as received deteriorated hardware. Included in this report is a detailed analysis of the test cell performance data, a complete analytical teardown report with a detailed description of all observed hardware distress, and an analytical assessment of the performance loss (deterioration) relating measured hardware conditions to losses in both SFC (specific fuel consumption) and EGT (exhaust gas temperature).

Position requirements for space station personnel and linkages to portable microcomputer performance assessment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jeanneret, P. R.

1988-01-01

The development and use of a menu of performance tests that can be self-administered on a portable microcomputer are investigated. In order to identify, develop, or otherwise select the relevant human capabilities/attributes to measure and hence include in the performance battery, it is essential that an analysis be conducted of the jobs or functions that will be performed throughout a space shuttle mission. The primary job analysis instrument, the Position Analysis Questionnaire (PAQ), is discussed in detail so the reader will have sufficient background for understanding the application of the instrument to the various work activities included within the scope of the study, and the derivation of the human requirements (abilities/attributes) from the PAQ analyses. The research methodology is described and includes the procedures used for gathering the PAQ data. The results are presented in detail with specific emphasis on identifying critical requirements that can be measured with a portable computerized assessment battery. A discussion of the results is given with implications for future research.

10 CFR 74.45 - Measurements and measurement control.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... measurements, obtaining samples, and performing laboratory analyses for element concentration and isotope... of random error behavior. On a predetermined schedule, the program shall include, as appropriate: (i) Replicate analyses of individual samples; (ii) Analysis of replicate process samples; (iii) Replicate volume...

10 CFR 74.45 - Measurements and measurement control.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... measurements, obtaining samples, and performing laboratory analyses for element concentration and isotope... of random error behavior. On a predetermined schedule, the program shall include, as appropriate: (i) Replicate analyses of individual samples; (ii) Analysis of replicate process samples; (iii) Replicate volume...

10 CFR 74.45 - Measurements and measurement control.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... measurements, obtaining samples, and performing laboratory analyses for element concentration and isotope... of random error behavior. On a predetermined schedule, the program shall include, as appropriate: (i) Replicate analyses of individual samples; (ii) Analysis of replicate process samples; (iii) Replicate volume...

40 CFR 125.98 - As the Director, what must I do to comply with the requirements of this subpart?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... technologies, operational measures, or restoration measures should be included in the permit to meet the... evaluate the performance of the design and construction technologies, operational measures, and/or... construction technologies, operational measure, and/or restoration measures, and/or improved operation and...

Why Measure Outcomes?

PubMed

Kuhn, John E

2016-01-01

The concept of measuring the outcomes of treatment in health care was promoted by Ernest Amory Codman in the early 1900s, but, until recently, his ideas were generally ignored. The forces that have advanced outcome measurement to the forefront of health care include the shift in payers for health care from the patient to large insurance companies or government agencies, the movement toward assessing the care of populations not individuals, and the effort to find value (or cost-effective treatments) amid rising healthcare costs. No ideal method exists to measure outcomes, and the information gathered depends on the reason the outcome information is required. Outcome measures used in research are best able to answer research questions. The methods for assessing physician and hospital performance include process measures, patient-experience measures, structure measures, and measures used to assess the outcomes of treatment. The methods used to assess performance should be validated, be reliable, and reflect a patient's perception of the treatment results. The healthcare industry must measure outcomes to identify which treatments are most effective and provide the most benefit to patients.

Relating Standardized Visual Perception Measures to Simulator Visual System Performance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kaiser, Mary K.; Sweet, Barbara T.

2013-01-01

Human vision is quantified through the use of standardized clinical vision measurements. These measurements typically include visual acuity (near and far), contrast sensitivity, color vision, stereopsis (a.k.a. stereo acuity), and visual field periphery. Simulator visual system performance is specified in terms such as brightness, contrast, color depth, color gamut, gamma, resolution, and field-of-view. How do these simulator performance characteristics relate to the perceptual experience of the pilot in the simulator? In this paper, visual acuity and contrast sensitivity will be related to simulator visual system resolution, contrast, and dynamic range; similarly, color vision will be related to color depth/color gamut. Finally, we will consider how some characteristics of human vision not typically included in current clinical assessments could be used to better inform simulator requirements (e.g., relating dynamic characteristics of human vision to update rate and other temporal display characteristics).

Introducing a Short Measure of Shared Servant Leadership Impacting Team Performance through Team Behavioral Integration.

PubMed

Sousa, Milton; Van Dierendonck, Dirk

2015-01-01

The research reported in this paper was designed to study the influence of shared servant leadership on team performance through the mediating effect of team behavioral integration, while validating a new short measure of shared servant leadership. A round-robin approach was used to collect data in two similar studies. Study 1 included 244 undergraduate students in 61 teams following an intense HRM business simulation of 2 weeks. The following year, study 2 included 288 students in 72 teams involved in the same simulation. The most important findings were that (1) shared servant leadership was a strong determinant of team behavioral integration, (2) information exchange worked as the main mediating process between shared servant leadership and team performance, and (3) the essence of servant leadership can be captured on the key dimensions of empowerment, humility, stewardship and accountability, allowing for a new promising shortened four-dimensional measure of shared servant leadership.

Comparison of measurement- and proxy-based Vs30 values in California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Yong, Alan K.

2016-01-01

This study was prompted by the recent availability of a significant amount of openly accessible measured VS30 values and the desire to investigate the trend of using proxy-based models to predict VS30 in the absence of measurements. Comparisons between measured and model-based values were performed. The measured data included 503 VS30 values collected from various projects for 482 seismographic station sites in California. Six proxy-based models—employing geologic mapping, topographic slope, and terrain classification—were also considered. Included was a new terrain class model based on the Yong et al. (2012) approach but recalibrated with updated measured VS30 values. Using the measured VS30 data as the metric for performance, the predictive capabilities of the six models were determined to be statistically indistinguishable. This study also found three models that tend to underpredict VS30 at lower velocities (NEHRP Site Classes D–E) and overpredict at higher velocities (Site Classes B–C).

Cognitive Performance and Cognitive Style.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

International Journal of Behavioral Development, 1985

1985-01-01

Investigates (1) the relationships between cognitive performance and cognitive styles and predictive possibilities and (2) performance differences by sex, school, grade, and income in 92 Indian adolescents. Assessment measures included Liquid Conservation, Islands, Goat-Lion, Hanoi-Tower, Rabbits (Piagetian); Block Design (WISC-R); Paper Cutting…

Improved Clinical Performance and Teamwork of Pediatric Interprofessional Resuscitation Teams With a Simulation-Based Educational Intervention.

PubMed

Gilfoyle, Elaine; Koot, Deanna A; Annear, John C; Bhanji, Farhan; Cheng, Adam; Duff, Jonathan P; Grant, Vincent J; St George-Hyslop, Cecilia E; Delaloye, Nicole J; Kotsakis, Afrothite; McCoy, Carolyn D; Ramsay, Christa E; Weiss, Matthew J; Gottesman, Ronald D

2017-02-01

To measure the effect of a 1-day team training course for pediatric interprofessional resuscitation team members on adherence to Pediatric Advanced Life Support guidelines, team efficiency, and teamwork in a simulated clinical environment. Multicenter prospective interventional study. Four tertiary-care children's hospitals in Canada from June 2011 to January 2015. Interprofessional pediatric resuscitation teams including resident physicians, ICU nurse practitioners, registered nurses, and registered respiratory therapists (n = 300; 51 teams). A 1-day simulation-based team training course was delivered, involving an interactive lecture, group discussions, and four simulated resuscitation scenarios, each followed by a debriefing. The first scenario of the day (PRE) was conducted prior to any team training. The final scenario of the day (POST) was the same scenario, with a slightly modified patient history. All scenarios included standardized distractors designed to elicit and challenge specific teamwork behaviors. Primary outcome measure was change (before and after training) in adherence to Pediatric Advanced Life Support guidelines, as measured by the Clinical Performance Tool. Secondary outcome measures were as follows: 1) change in times to initiation of chest compressions and defibrillation and 2) teamwork performance, as measured by the Clinical Teamwork Scale. Correlation between Clinical Performance Tool and Clinical Teamwork Scale scores was also analyzed. Teams significantly improved Clinical Performance Tool scores (67.3-79.6%; p < 0.0001), time to initiation of chest compressions (60.8-27.1 s; p < 0.0001), time to defibrillation (164.8-122.0 s; p < 0.0001), and Clinical Teamwork Scale scores (56.0-71.8%; p < 0.0001). A positive correlation was found between Clinical Performance Tool and Clinical Teamwork Scale (R = 0.281; p < 0.0001). Participation in a simulation-based team training educational intervention significantly improved surrogate measures of clinical performance, time to initiation of key clinical tasks, and teamwork during simulated pediatric resuscitation. A positive correlation between clinical and teamwork performance suggests that effective teamwork improves clinical performance of resuscitation teams.

Use of proficiency test performance to determine clinical laboratory director qualifications.

PubMed

Howanitz, P J

1988-04-01

Many activities and policies influence laboratory test quality. Proficiency test results are one measure of laboratory quality, and during the past 25 years, five studies have examined the relationship of laboratory director educational requirements to proficiency test results. Data from three studies support the association between director qualifications and quality as measured by proficiency test performance, whereas no relationship was found in the other two studies. Possible reasons for conflicting results include differences in database size and demographics; in addition, proficiency test results may be inappropriate, although widely used, as the sole measure of laboratory director performance.

Sensitivity Analysis for Steady State Groundwater Flow Using Adjoint Operators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sykes, J. F.; Wilson, J. L.; Andrews, R. W.

1985-03-01

Adjoint sensitivity theory is currently being considered as a potential method for calculating the sensitivity of nuclear waste repository performance measures to the parameters of the system. For groundwater flow systems, performance measures of interest include piezometric heads in the vicinity of a waste site, velocities or travel time in aquifers, and mass discharge to biosphere points. The parameters include recharge-discharge rates, prescribed boundary heads or fluxes, formation thicknesses, and hydraulic conductivities. The derivative of a performance measure with respect to the system parameters is usually taken as a measure of sensitivity. To calculate sensitivities, adjoint sensitivity equations are formulated from the equations describing the primary problem. The solution of the primary problem and the adjoint sensitivity problem enables the determination of all of the required derivatives and hence related sensitivity coefficients. In this study, adjoint sensitivity theory is developed for equations of two-dimensional steady state flow in a confined aquifer. Both the primary flow equation and the adjoint sensitivity equation are solved using the Galerkin finite element method. The developed computer code is used to investigate the regional flow parameters of the Leadville Formation of the Paradox Basin in Utah. The results illustrate the sensitivity of calculated local heads to the boundary conditions. Alternatively, local velocity related performance measures are more sensitive to hydraulic conductivities.

Functional assessment and performance evaluation for assistive robotic manipulators: Literature review

PubMed Central

Chung, Cheng-Shiu; Wang, Hongwu; Cooper, Rory A.

2013-01-01

Context The user interface development of assistive robotic manipulators can be traced back to the 1960s. Studies include kinematic designs, cost-efficiency, user experience involvements, and performance evaluation. This paper is to review studies conducted with clinical trials using activities of daily living (ADLs) tasks to evaluate performance categorized using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) frameworks, in order to give the scope of current research and provide suggestions for future studies. Methods We conducted a literature search of assistive robotic manipulators from 1970 to 2012 in PubMed, Google Scholar, and University of Pittsburgh Library System – PITTCat. Results Twenty relevant studies were identified. Conclusion Studies were separated into two broad categories: user task preferences and user-interface performance measurements of commercialized and developing assistive robotic manipulators. The outcome measures and ICF codes associated with the performance evaluations are reported. Suggestions for the future studies include (1) standardized ADL tasks for the quantitative and qualitative evaluation of task efficiency and performance to build comparable measures between research groups, (2) studies relevant to the tasks from user priority lists and ICF codes, and (3) appropriate clinical functional assessment tests with consideration of constraints in assistive robotic manipulator user interfaces. In addition, these outcome measures will help physicians and therapists build standardized tools while prescribing and assessing assistive robotic manipulators. PMID:23820143

Emissions Prediction and Measurement for Liquid-Fueled TVC Combustor with and without Water Injection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brankovic, A.; Ryder, R. C., Jr.; Hendricks, R. C.; Liu, N.-S.; Shouse, D. T.; Roquemore, W. M.

2005-01-01

An investigation is performed to evaluate the performance of a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tool for the prediction of the reacting flow in a liquid-fueled combustor that uses water injection for control of pollutant emissions. The experiment consists of a multisector, liquid-fueled combustor rig operated at different inlet pressures and temperatures, and over a range of fuel/air and water/fuel ratios. Fuel can be injected directly into the main combustion airstream and into the cavities. Test rig performance is characterized by combustor exit quantities such as temperature and emissions measurements using rakes and overall pressure drop from upstream plenum to combustor exit. Visualization of the flame is performed using gray scale and color still photographs and high-frame-rate videos. CFD simulations are performed utilizing a methodology that includes computer-aided design (CAD) solid modeling of the geometry, parallel processing over networked computers, and graphical and quantitative post-processing. Physical models include liquid fuel droplet dynamics and evaporation, with combustion modeled using a hybrid finite-rate chemistry model developed for Jet-A fuel. CFD and experimental results are compared for cases with cavity-only fueling, while numerical studies of cavity and main fueling was also performed. Predicted and measured trends in combustor exit temperature, CO and NOx are in general agreement at the different water/fuel loading rates, although quantitative differences exist between the predictions and measurements.

The balanced scorecard--measures that drive performance.

PubMed

Kaplan, R S; Norton, D P

1992-01-01

Frustrated by the inadequacies of traditional performance measurement systems, some managers have abandoned financial measures like return on equity and earnings per share. "Make operational improvements and the numbers will follow," the argument goes. But managers do not want to choose between financial and operational measures. Executives want a balanced presentation of measures that allow them to view the company from several perspectives simultaneously. During a year-long research project with 12 companies at the leading edge of performance measurement, the authors developed a "balanced scorecard," a new performance measurement system that gives top managers a fast but comprehensive view of the business. The balanced scorecard includes financial measures that tell the results of actions already taken. And it complements those financial measures with three sets of operational measures having to do with customer satisfaction, internal processes, and the organization's ability to learn and improve--the activities that drive future financial performance. Managers can create a balanced scorecard by translating their company's strategy and mission statements into specific goals and measures. To create the part of the scorecard that focuses on the customer perspective, for example, executives at Electronic Circuits Inc. established general goals for customer performance: get standard products to market sooner, improve customers' time-to-market, become customers' supplier of choice through partnerships, and develop innovative products tailored to customer needs. Managers translated these elements of strategy into four specific goals and identified a measure for each.

Telerobotic system performance measurement - Motivation and methods

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kondraske, George V.; Khoury, George J.

1992-01-01

A systems performance-based strategy for modeling and conducting experiments relevant to the design and performance characterization of telerobotic systems is described. A developmental testbed consisting of a distributed telerobotics network and initial efforts to implement the strategy described is presented. Consideration is given to the general systems performance theory (GSPT) to tackle human performance problems as a basis for: measurement of overall telerobotic system (TRS) performance; task decomposition; development of a generic TRS model; and the characterization of performance of subsystems comprising the generic model. GSPT employs a resource construct to model performance and resource economic principles to govern the interface of systems to tasks. It provides a comprehensive modeling/measurement strategy applicable to complex systems including both human and artificial components. Application is presented within the framework of a distributed telerobotics network as a testbed. Insight into the design of test protocols which elicit application-independent data is described.

Performance measurement for ambulatory care: moving towards a new agenda.

PubMed

Roski, J; Gregory, R

2001-12-01

Despite a shift in care delivery from inpatient to ambulatory care, performance measurement efforts for the different levels in ambulatory care settings such as individual physicians, individual clinics and physician organizations have not been widely instituted in the United States (U.S.). The Health Plan Employer Data and Information Set (HEDIS), the most widely used performance measurement set in the U.S., includes a number of measures that evaluate preventive and chronic care provided in ambulatory care facilities. While HEDIS has made important contributions to the tracking of ambulatory care quality, it is becoming increasingly apparent that the measurement set could be improved by providing quality of care information at the levels of greatest interest to consumers and purchasers of care, namely for individual physicians, clinics and physician organizations. This article focuses on the improvement opportunities for quality performance measurement systems in ambulatory care. Specific challenges to creating a sustainable performance measurement system at the level of physician organizations, such as defining the purpose of the system, the accountability logic, information and reporting needs and mechanisms for sustainable implementation, are discussed.

The Association between Parameters of Malnutrition and Diagnostic Measures of Sarcopenia in Geriatric Outpatients

PubMed Central

Reijnierse, Esmee M.; Trappenburg, Marijke C.; Leter, Morena J.; Blauw, Gerard Jan; de van der Schueren, Marian A. E.; Meskers, Carel G. M.; Maier, Andrea B.

2015-01-01

Objectives Diagnostic criteria for sarcopenia include measures of muscle mass, muscle strength and physical performance. Consensus on the definition of sarcopenia has not been reached yet. To improve insight into the most clinically valid definition of sarcopenia, this study aimed to compare the association between parameters of malnutrition, as a risk factor in sarcopenia, and diagnostic measures of sarcopenia in geriatric outpatients. Material and Methods This study is based on data from a cross-sectional study conducted in a geriatric outpatient clinic including 185 geriatric outpatients (mean age 82 years). Parameters of malnutrition included risk of malnutrition (assessed by the Short Nutritional Assessment Questionnaire), loss of appetite, unintentional weight loss and underweight (body mass index <22 kg/m2). Diagnostic measures of sarcopenia included relative muscle mass (lean mass and appendicular lean mass [ALM] as percentages), absolute muscle mass (total lean mass and ALM/height2), handgrip strength and walking speed. All diagnostic measures of sarcopenia were standardized. Associations between parameters of malnutrition (independent variables) and diagnostic measures of sarcopenia (dependent variables) were analysed using multivariate linear regression models adjusted for age, body mass, fat mass and height in separate models. Results None of the parameters of malnutrition was consistently associated with diagnostic measures of sarcopenia. The strongest associations were found for both relative and absolute muscle mass; less stronger associations were found for muscle strength and physical performance. Underweight (p = <0.001) and unintentional weight loss (p = 0.031) were most strongly associated with higher lean mass percentage after adjusting for age. Loss of appetite (p = 0.003) and underweight (p = 0.021) were most strongly associated with lower total lean mass after adjusting for age and fat mass. Conclusion Parameters of malnutrition relate differently to diagnostic measures of sarcopenia in geriatric outpatients. The association between parameters of malnutrition and diagnostic measures of sarcopenia was strongest for both relative and absolute muscle mass, while less strong associations were found with muscle strength and physical performance. PMID:26284368

Design of a dual-mode electrochemical measurement and analysis system.

PubMed

Yang, Jr-Fu; Wei, Chia-Ling; Wu, Jian-Fu; Liu, Bin-Da

2013-01-01

A dual-mode electrochemical measurement and analysis system is proposed. This system includes a dual-mode chip, which was designed and fabricated by using TSMC 0.35 µm 3.3 V/5 V 2P4M mixed-signal CMOS process. Two electrochemical measurement and analysis methods, chronopotentiometry and voltammetry, can be performed by using the proposed chip and system. The proposed chip and system are verified successfully by performing voltammetry and chronopotentiometry on solutions.

Data Summary Report for the Open Rotor Propulsion Rig Equipped With F31/A31 Rotor Blades

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stephens, David

2014-01-01

An extensive wind tunnel test campaign was undertaken to quantify the performance and acoustics of a counter-rotating open rotor system. The present document summarizes the portion of this test performed with the so-called Historical Baseline rotor blades, designated F31A31. It includes performance and acoustic data acquired at Mach numbers from take-off to cruise. It also includes the effect of propulsor angle of attack as well as an upstream pylon. This report is accompanied by an electronic data set including relevant acoustic and performance measurements for all of the F31A31 data.

Data Summary Report for the Open Rotor Propulsion Rig Equipped with F31/A31 Rotor Blades

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stephens, David B.

2014-01-01

An extensive wind tunnel test campaign was undertaken to quantify the performance and acoustics of a counter-rotating open rotor system. The present document summarizes the portion of this test performed with the so-called "Historical Baseline" rotor blades, designated F31/A31. It includes performance and acoustic data acquired at Mach numbers from take-off to cruise. It also includes the effect of propulsor angle of attack as well as an upstream pylon. This report is accompanied by an electronic data set including relevant acoustic and performance measurements for all of the F31/A31 data.

Measurement of noise and its correlation to performance and geometry of small aircraft propellers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Štorch, Vít; Nožička, Jiří; Brada, Martin; Gemperle, Jiří; Suchý, Jakub

2016-03-01

A set of small model and UAV propellers is measured both in terms of aerodynamic performance and acoustic noise under static conditions. Apart from obvious correlation of noise to tip speed and propeller diameter the influence of blade pitch, blade pitch distribution, efficiency and shape of the blade is sought. Using the measured performance data a computational model for calculation of aerodynamic noise of propellers will be validated. The range of selected propellers include both propellers designed for nearly static conditions and propellers that are running at highly offdesign conditions, which allows to investigate i.e. the effect of blade stall on both noise level and performance results.

Research on Volume Measurement System of Weights with Hydrostatic Technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Jian; Ren, Xiaoping; Yao, Hong; Cai, Changqing; Zhang, Yue; Zhong, Ruilin; Ding, Jing'an

According to Annex B.7.4 of OIML R111-1, equipment for measuring volume of weights mass ranging from 1 kg to 20 kg including three methods of hydrostatic comparison is described. The equipment consists of a robot arm for transferring weights, a liquid bath, a mass comparator with 26.1 kg of maximum capacity and 1 mg of readability, glass housing, two weight exchangers including in air and in liquid, two weight holders including in air and in liquid, and a controller. The equipment will enable to perform automatically volume measurements.

Benchmarking--Measuring and Comparing for Continuous Improvement.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Henczel, Sue

2002-01-01

Discussion of benchmarking focuses on the use of internal and external benchmarking by special librarians. Highlights include defining types of benchmarking; historical development; benefits, including efficiency, improved performance, increased competitiveness, and better decision making; problems, including inappropriate adaptation; developing a…

The Effect of Self-Reported and Performance-Based Functional Impairment on Future Hospital Costs of Community-Dwelling Older Persons

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Reuben, David B.; Seeman, Teresa E.; Keeler, Emmett; Hayes, Risa P.; Bowman, Lee; Sewall, Ase; Hirsch, Susan H.; Wallace, Robert B.; Guralnik, Jack M.

2004-01-01

Purpose: We determined the prognostic value of self-reported and performance-based measurement of function, including functional transitions and combining different measurement approaches, on utilization. Design and Methods: Our cohort study used the 6th, 7th, and 10th waves of three sites of the Established Populations for Epidemiologic Studies…

In Vivo Monitoring Program Manual, PNL-MA-574, Rev 5.1

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

Lynch, Timothy P.

2011-09-12

The following sections provide an overview of the administration for the In Vivo Monitoring Program (IVMP) for Hanford. This includes the organizational structure and program responsibilities; coordination of in vivo measurements; scheduling measurements; performing measurements; reporting results; and quality assurance.

Spectroelectrochemical Instrument Measures TOC

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kounaves, Sam

2011-01-01

A spectroelectrochemical instrument has been developed for measuring the total organic carbon (TOC) content of an aqueous solution. Measurements of TOC are frequently performed in environmental, clinical, and industrial settings. Until now, techniques for performing such measurements have included, various ly, the use of hazardous reagents, ultraviolet light, or ovens, to promote reactions in which the carbon contents are oxidized. The instrument now being developed is intended to be a safer, more economical means of oxidizing organic carbon and determining the TOC levels of aqueous solutions and for providing a low power/mass unit for use in planetary missions.

Sofia Observatory Performance and Characterization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Temi, Pasquale; Miller, Walter; Dunham, Edward; McLean, Ian; Wolf, Jurgen; Becklin, Eric; Bida, Tom; Brewster, Rick; Casey, Sean; Collins, Peter;

Are university rankings useful to improve research? A systematic review.

PubMed

Vernon, Marlo M; Balas, E Andrew; Momani, Shaher

2018-01-01

Concerns about reproducibility and impact of research urge improvement initiatives. Current university ranking systems evaluate and compare universities on measures of academic and research performance. Although often useful for marketing purposes, the value of ranking systems when examining quality and outcomes is unclear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate usefulness of ranking systems and identify opportunities to support research quality and performance improvement. A systematic review of university ranking systems was conducted to investigate research performance and academic quality measures. Eligibility requirements included: inclusion of at least 100 doctoral granting institutions, be currently produced on an ongoing basis and include both global and US universities, publish rank calculation methodology in English and independently calculate ranks. Ranking systems must also include some measures of research outcomes. Indicators were abstracted and contrasted with basic quality improvement requirements. Exploration of aggregation methods, validity of research and academic quality indicators, and suitability for quality improvement within ranking systems were also conducted. A total of 24 ranking systems were identified and 13 eligible ranking systems were evaluated. Six of the 13 rankings are 100% focused on research performance. For those reporting weighting, 76% of the total ranks are attributed to research indicators, with 24% attributed to academic or teaching quality. Seven systems rely on reputation surveys and/or faculty and alumni awards. Rankings influence academic choice yet research performance measures are the most weighted indicators. There are no generally accepted academic quality indicators in ranking systems. No single ranking system provides a comprehensive evaluation of research and academic quality. Utilizing a combined approach of the Leiden, Thomson Reuters Most Innovative Universities, and the SCImago ranking systems may provide institutions with a more effective feedback for research improvement. Rankings which extensively rely on subjective reputation and "luxury" indicators, such as award winning faculty or alumni who are high ranking executives, are not well suited for academic or research performance improvement initiatives. Future efforts should better explore measurement of the university research performance through comprehensive and standardized indicators. This paper could serve as a general literature citation when one or more of university ranking systems are used in efforts to improve academic prominence and research performance.

Performance index for virtual reality phacoemulsification surgery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Söderberg, Per; Laurell, Carl-Gustaf; Simawi, Wamidh; Skarman, Eva; Nordqvist, Per; Nordh, Leif

2007-02-01

We have developed a virtual reality (VR) simulator for phacoemulsification (phaco) surgery. The current work aimed at developing a performance index that characterizes the performance of an individual trainee. We recorded measurements of 28 response variables during three iterated surgical sessions in 9 subjects naive to cataract surgery and 6 experienced cataract surgeons, separately for the sculpting phase and the evacuation phase of phacoemulsification surgery. We further defined a specific performance index for a specific measurement variable and a total performance index for a specific trainee. The distribution function for the total performance index was relatively evenly distributed both for the sculpting and the evacuation phase indicating that parametric statistics can be used for comparison of total average performance indices for different groups in the future. The current total performance index for an individual considers all measurement variables included with the same weight. It is possible that a future development of the system will indicate that a better characterization of a trainee can be obtained if the various measurements variables are given specific weights. The currently developed total performance index for a trainee is statistically an independent observation of that particular trainee.

42 CFR 416.43 - Conditions for coverage-Quality assessment and performance improvement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... outcomes, patient safety, and quality of care. (2) Performance improvement activities must track adverse... improves patient safety by using quality indicators or performance measures associated with improved health... incorporate quality indicator data, including patient care and other relevant data regarding services...

42 CFR 416.43 - Conditions for coverage-Quality assessment and performance improvement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... outcomes, patient safety, and quality of care. (2) Performance improvement activities must track adverse... improves patient safety by using quality indicators or performance measures associated with improved health... incorporate quality indicator data, including patient care and other relevant data regarding services...

42 CFR 416.43 - Conditions for coverage-Quality assessment and performance improvement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... outcomes, patient safety, and quality of care. (2) Performance improvement activities must track adverse... improves patient safety by using quality indicators or performance measures associated with improved health... incorporate quality indicator data, including patient care and other relevant data regarding services...

Procedures for Developing Evidence-Informed Performance Checklists for Improving Early Childhood Intervention Practices

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dunst, Carl J.

2017-01-01

A conceptualization-operationalization-measurement framework is described for developing evidence-informed early childhood intervention performance checklists. Performance checklists include lists of practice indicators where the indicators, taken together, operationally define particular types of intervention practices that, when used as…

Protocol for Uniformly Measuring and Expressing the Performance of Energy Storage Systems

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

Conover, David R.; Crawford, Aladsair J.; Fuller, Jason C.

The Protocol for Uniformly Measuring and Expressing the Performance of Energy Storage Systems (PNNL-22010) was first issued in November 2012 as a first step toward providing a foundational basis for developing an initial standard for the uniform measurement and expression of energy storage system (ESS) performance. Based on experiences with the application and use of that document, and to include additional ESS applications and associated duty cycles, test procedures and performance metrics, a first revision of the November 2012 Protocol was issued in June 2014 (PNNL 22010 Rev. 1). As an update of the 2014 revision 1 to the Protocol,more » this document (the March 2016 revision 2 to the Protocol) is intended to supersede the June 2014 revision 1 to the Protocol and provide a more user-friendly yet more robust and comprehensive basis for measuring and expressing ESS performance.« less

Data analysis techniques used at the Oak Ridge Y-12 plant flywheel evaluation laboratory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Steels, R. S., Jr.; Babelay, E. F., Jr.

1980-07-01

Some of the more advanced data analysis techniques applied to the problem of experimentally evaluating the performance of high performance composite flywheels are presented. Real time applications include polar plots of runout with interruptions relating to balance and relative motions between parts, radial growth measurements, and temperature of the spinning part. The technique used to measure torque applied to a containment housing during flywheel failure is also presented. The discussion of pre and post test analysis techniques includes resonant frequency determination with modal analysis, waterfall charts, and runout signals at failure.

An overview of current approaches and future challenges in physiological monitoring

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Horst, Richard L.

1988-01-01

Sufficient evidence exists from laboratory studies to suggest that physiological measures can be useful as an adjunct to behavioral and subjective measures of human performance and capabilities. Thus it is reasonable to address the conceptual and engineering challenges that arise in applying this technology in operational settings. Issues reviewed include the advantages and disadvantages of constructs such as mental states, the need for physiological measures of performance, areas of application for physiological measures in operational settings, which measures appear to be most useful, problem areas that arise in the use of these measures in operational settings, and directions for future development.

PET Timing Performance Measurement Method Using NEMA NEC Phantom

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Gin-Chung; Li, Xiaoli; Niu, Xiaofeng; Du, Huini; Balakrishnan, Karthik; Ye, Hongwei; Burr, Kent

2016-06-01

When comparing the performance of time-of-flight whole-body PET scanners, timing resolution is one important benchmark. Timing performance is heavily influenced by detector and electronics design. Even for the same scanner design, measured timing resolution is a function of many factors including the activity concentration, geometry and positioning of the radioactive source. Due to lack of measurement standards, the timing resolutions reported in the literature may not be directly comparable and may not describe the timing performance under clinically relevant conditions. In this work we introduce a method which makes use of the data acquired during the standard NEMA Noise-Equivalent-Count-Rate (NECR) measurements, and compare it to several other timing resolution measurement methods. The use of the NEMA NEC phantom, with well-defined dimensions and radioactivity distribution, is attractive because it has been widely accepted in the industry and allows for the characterization of timing resolution across a more relevant range of conditions.

Publicly reported quality-of-care measures influenced Wisconsin physician groups to improve performance

PubMed Central

Lamb, Geoffrey C.; Smith, Maureen; Weeks, William B.; Queram, Christopher

2014-01-01

Public reporting of performance on quality measures is increasingly common but little is known about the impact, especially among physician groups. The Wisconsin Collaborative for Healthcare Quality (Collaborative) is a voluntary consortium of physician groups which has publicly reported quality measures since 2004, providing an opportunity to study the effect of this effort on participating groups. Analyses included member performance on 14 ambulatory measures from 2004–2009, a survey regarding reporting and its relationship to improvement efforts, and use of Medicare billing data to independently compare Collaborative members to the rest of Wisconsin, neighboring states and the rest of the United States. Faced with limited resources, groups prioritized their efforts based on the nature of the measure and their performance compared to others. The outcomes demonstrated that public reporting was associated with improvement in health quality and that large physician group practices will engage in improvement efforts in response. PMID:23459733

Commercial Building Energy Saver, Web App

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

Hong, Tianzhen; Piette, Mary; Lee, Sang Hoon

The CBES App is a web-based toolkit for use by small businesses and building owners and operators of small and medium size commercial buildings to perform energy benchmarking and retrofit analysis for buildings. The CBES App analyzes the energy performance of user's building for pre-and posto-retrofit, in conjunction with user's input data, to identify recommended retrofit measures, energy savings and economic analysis for the selected measures. The CBES App provides energy benchmarking, including getting an EnergyStar score using EnergyStar API and benchmarking against California peer buildings using the EnergyIQ API. The retrofit analysis includes a preliminary analysis by looking upmore » retrofit measures from a pre-simulated database DEEP, and a detailed analysis creating and running EnergyPlus models to calculate energy savings of retrofit measures. The CBES App builds upon the LBNL CBES API.« less

Measuring Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility Quality of Care: Discharge Self-Care Functional Status Quality Measure.

PubMed

Pardasaney, Poonam K; Deutsch, Anne; Iriondo-Perez, Jeniffer; Ingber, Melvin J; McMullen, Tara

2018-06-01

To describe the calculation and psychometric properties of the discharge self-care functional status quality measure implemented in the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services' (CMS) Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility (IRF) Quality Reporting Program on October 1, 2016. Medicare fee-for-service (FFS) patients from 38 IRFs that participated in the CMS Post-Acute Care Payment Reform Demonstration were included in this cohort study. Data came from the Continuity Assessment Record and Evaluation Item Set, IRF-Patient Assessment Instrument, and Medicare claims. For each patient, we calculated an expected discharge self-care score, risk-adjusted for demographic and baseline clinical characteristics. The performance score of each IRF equaled the percentage of patient stays where the observed discharge self-care score met or exceeded the expected score. We assessed the measure's discriminatory ability across IRFs and reliability. IRFs. Medicare FFS patients aged ≥21 years (N=4769). Not applicable. Facility-level discharge self-care quality measure performance score. A total of 4769 patient stays were included; 57% of stays were in women, and 12.1% were in patients aged <65 years. Stroke was the most common diagnosis (21.8%). The mean±SD performance score was 55.1%±16.6% (range, 25.8%-100%). About 54% of IRFs had scores significantly different from the percentage of stays that met or exceeded the expected discharge self-care score in the overall demonstration sample. The quality measure showed strong reliability, with intraclass correlation coefficients of .91. The discharge self-care quality measure showed strong discriminatory ability and reliability, representing an important initial step in evaluation of IRF self-care outcomes. A wide range in performance scores suggested a gap in quality of care across IRFs. Future work should include testing the measure with nationwide data from all IRFs. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Developing performance measures for alcohol and other drug services in managed care plans. Washington Circle Group.

PubMed

McCorry, F; Garnick, D W; Bartlett, J; Cotter, F; Chalk, M

2000-11-01

Monitoring the quality and availability of alcohol and other drug (AOD) services must be a central tenet of any health-related performance measurement system. The Washington Circle Group (WCG), which was convened by the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment Office of Managed Care in March 1998, has developed a core set of performance measures for AOD services for public- and private-sector health plans. It is also collaborating with a broad range of stakeholders to ensure widespread adoption of these performance measures by health plans, private employers, public payers, and accrediting organizations. Four domains were identified, with specific measures developed for each domain: (1) prevention/education, (2) recognition, (3) treatment (including initiation of alcohol and other plan services, linkage of detoxification and AOD plan services, treatment engagement, and interventions for family members/significant others), and (4) maintenance of treatment effects. Four measures that are based on administrative information from health plans and two measures that require a consumer survey of behavioral health care are undergoing extensive pilot testing. The WCG has reached out to a broad range of stakeholders in performance measurement and managed care to acquaint them with the measures and to promote their investigation and adoption. As results of pilot testing become available, these outreach efforts will continue. Performance measures for AOD services need to become an integral part of a comprehensive set of behavioral and physical health performance measures for managed care plans.

Effectiveness of preventative and other surgical measures on hypocalcemia following bilateral thyroid surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Antakia, Ramez; Edafe, Ovie; Uttley, Lesley; Balasubramanian, Saba P

2015-01-01

A variety of measures have been proposed to reduce the incidence of post-thyroidectomy hypocalcemia. The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of preventive and other surgical measures on post-thyroidectomy hypocalcemia as reported in the literature. Comprehensive searches of the PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases were performed, and the quality of included papers was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool or a modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). The results of all included studies were summarized, and meta-analyses were performed where appropriate. Thirty-nine randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 37 observational studies were included. Measures studied included hemostatic techniques, extent of thyroidectomy and central neck dissection, surgical approach, calcium/vitamin D/thiazide diuretic supplements, parathyroid gland autotransplantation (PGAT) and intraoperative parathyroid gland (PG) identification, truncal ligation of inferior thyroid artery (ITA), preoperative magnesium infusion, and use of magnification loupes and Surgicel. Measures associated with significantly lower rates of transient hypocalcemia in meta-analysis were postoperative calcium and vitamin D supplementation compared to either calcium supplements alone (odds ratio (OR) 0.66; p=0.04) or no supplements (OR 0.34; p=0.007), and bilateral subtotal thyroidectomy (BST) compared to Hartley Dunhill (HD) procedure (OR 0.35; p=0.01). Meta-analyses did not demonstrate any measure to be significantly associated with a reduction in permanent hypocalcemia. This review identified postoperative calcium and vitamin D supplementation and bilateral subtotal thyroidectomy (over HD) as being effective in prevention of transient hypocalcemia. However, the majority of RCTs were of low quality, primarily due to a lack of blinding. The wide variability in study design, definitions of hypocalcemia, and methods of assessment prevented meaningful summation of results for permanent hypocalcemia.

The predictive value of pre-recruitment achievement on resident performance in anesthesiology.

PubMed

Chen, Fei; Arora, Harendra; Martinelli, Susan M; Teeter, Emily; Mayer, David; Zvara, David A; Passannante, Anthony; Smith, Kathleen A

2017-06-01

Selecting candidates for residency positions is challenging and there is little research on the correlation between commonly used selection criteria and subsequent performance in anesthesiology. This study examined the association between the selection measures and post-recruitment performance in residency. Retrospective review of archival data. Anesthesiology residency program at a large academic anesthesiology department. Residents who were matched to the anesthesiology program over 9years (graduation classes of 2006 to 2014). None. The pre-recruitment achievements included a comprehensive list of measures obtained from residents' application portfolios in conjunction with interview performance. The post-recruitment examination outcomes consisted of the in-training examination (ITE) scores in the three clinical anesthesia (CA) years and first-attempt success on the written board certification examination administered by the American Board of Anesthesiology (ABA). Scholarly output during residency was measured by publication record. Clinical performance at the conclusion of residency was independently rated by three faculty members. Bivariate analysis and regression models were conducted to examine association between predictors and outcomes. High United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) scores, class rank in medical school and interview performance were predictive of high examination scores in residency and good clinical performance. Class rank appeared to be the best predictor of scholarly publication and pursuing an academic career beyond residency. Comparative performance with classmates (i.e., class rank) in medical school appeared to be an effective predictor of overall performance in residency, which warrants more attention in future study. Although interview performance is subject to recruitment team members' interpretation, it is an important measure to include in recruitment decisions. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

ISLAY containment data report

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

Stubbs, T.; Heinle, R.

1997-06-01

This containment data report for the ISLAY event provides a description of the event, including the site, emplacement, and instrumentation. Stemming performance is reported, including radiation pressure and motion. Collapse phenomena are reported, including motion and radiation pressure. Measurements on the emplacement pipe are reported, including motion, pressure, temperature, and radiation.

The importance of quality control in validating concentrations ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

A national-scale survey of 247 contaminants of emerging concern (CECs), including organic and inorganic chemical compounds, and microbial contaminants, was conducted in source and treated drinking water samples from 25 treatment plants across the United States. Multiple methods were used to determine these CECs, including six analytical methods to measure 174 pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and pesticides. A three-component quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) program was designed for the subset of 174 CECs which allowed us to assess and compare performances of the methods used. The three components included: 1) a common field QA/QC protocol and sample design, 2) individual investigator-developed method-specific QA/QC protocols, and 3) a suite of 46 method comparison analytes that were determined in two or more analytical methods. Overall method performance for the 174 organic chemical CECs was assessed by comparing spiked recoveries in reagent, source, and treated water over a two-year period. In addition to the 247 CECs reported in the larger drinking water study, another 48 pharmaceutical compounds measured did not consistently meet predetermined quality standards. Methodologies that did not seem suitable for these analytes are overviewed. The need to exclude analytes based on method performance demonstrates the importance of additional QA/QC protocols. This paper compares the method performance of six analytical methods used to measure 174 emer

Metric-driven harm: an exploration of unintended consequences of performance measurement.

PubMed

Rambur, Betty; Vallett, Carol; Cohen, Judith A; Tarule, Jill Mattuck

2013-11-01

Performance measurement is an increasingly common element of the US health care system. Typically a proxy for high quality outcomes, there has been little systematic investigation of the potential negative unintended consequences of performance metrics, including metric-driven harm. This case study details an incidence of post-surgical metric-driven harm and offers Smith's 1995 work and a patient centered, context sensitive metric model for potential adoption by nurse researchers and clinicians. Implications for further research are discussed. © 2013.

13 CFR 120.434 - What are SBA's requirements for loan pledges?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... factors, will be considered in determining satisfactory SBA performance. Other factors may include, but... default rate, purchase rate and loss rate), loan volume to the extent that it impacts performance measures...

Executive Function, Visual Attention and the Cocktail Party Problem in Musicians and Non-Musicians.

PubMed

Clayton, Kameron K; Swaminathan, Jayaganesh; Yazdanbakhsh, Arash; Zuk, Jennifer; Patel, Aniruddh D; Kidd, Gerald

2016-01-01

The goal of this study was to investigate how cognitive factors influence performance in a multi-talker, "cocktail-party" like environment in musicians and non-musicians. This was achieved by relating performance in a spatial hearing task to cognitive processing abilities assessed using measures of executive function (EF) and visual attention in musicians and non-musicians. For the spatial hearing task, a speech target was presented simultaneously with two intelligible speech maskers that were either colocated with the target (0° azimuth) or were symmetrically separated from the target in azimuth (at ±15°). EF assessment included measures of cognitive flexibility, inhibition control and auditory working memory. Selective attention was assessed in the visual domain using a multiple object tracking task (MOT). For the MOT task, the observers were required to track target dots (n = 1,2,3,4,5) in the presence of interfering distractor dots. Musicians performed significantly better than non-musicians in the spatial hearing task. For the EF measures, musicians showed better performance on measures of auditory working memory compared to non-musicians. Furthermore, across all individuals, a significant correlation was observed between performance on the spatial hearing task and measures of auditory working memory. This result suggests that individual differences in performance in a cocktail party-like environment may depend in part on cognitive factors such as auditory working memory. Performance in the MOT task did not differ between groups. However, across all individuals, a significant correlation was found between performance in the MOT and spatial hearing tasks. A stepwise multiple regression analysis revealed that musicianship and performance on the MOT task significantly predicted performance on the spatial hearing task. Overall, these findings confirm the relationship between musicianship and cognitive factors including domain-general selective attention and working memory in solving the "cocktail party problem".

Executive Function, Visual Attention and the Cocktail Party Problem in Musicians and Non-Musicians

PubMed Central

Clayton, Kameron K.; Swaminathan, Jayaganesh; Yazdanbakhsh, Arash; Zuk, Jennifer; Patel, Aniruddh D.; Kidd, Gerald

2016-01-01

The goal of this study was to investigate how cognitive factors influence performance in a multi-talker, “cocktail-party” like environment in musicians and non-musicians. This was achieved by relating performance in a spatial hearing task to cognitive processing abilities assessed using measures of executive function (EF) and visual attention in musicians and non-musicians. For the spatial hearing task, a speech target was presented simultaneously with two intelligible speech maskers that were either colocated with the target (0° azimuth) or were symmetrically separated from the target in azimuth (at ±15°). EF assessment included measures of cognitive flexibility, inhibition control and auditory working memory. Selective attention was assessed in the visual domain using a multiple object tracking task (MOT). For the MOT task, the observers were required to track target dots (n = 1,2,3,4,5) in the presence of interfering distractor dots. Musicians performed significantly better than non-musicians in the spatial hearing task. For the EF measures, musicians showed better performance on measures of auditory working memory compared to non-musicians. Furthermore, across all individuals, a significant correlation was observed between performance on the spatial hearing task and measures of auditory working memory. This result suggests that individual differences in performance in a cocktail party-like environment may depend in part on cognitive factors such as auditory working memory. Performance in the MOT task did not differ between groups. However, across all individuals, a significant correlation was found between performance in the MOT and spatial hearing tasks. A stepwise multiple regression analysis revealed that musicianship and performance on the MOT task significantly predicted performance on the spatial hearing task. Overall, these findings confirm the relationship between musicianship and cognitive factors including domain-general selective attention and working memory in solving the “cocktail party problem”. PMID:27384330

Managing hospital doctors and their practice: what can we learn about human resource management from non-healthcare organisations?

PubMed

Trebble, Timothy M; Heyworth, Nicola; Clarke, Nicholas; Powell, Timothy; Hockey, Peter M

2014-11-21

Improved management of clinicians' time and practice is advocated to address increasing demands on healthcare provision in the UK National Health Service (NHS). Human resource management (HRM) is associated with improvements in organisational performance and outcomes within and outside of healthcare, but with limited use in managing individual clinicians. This may reflect the absence of effective and transferrable models. The current systems of managing the performance of individual clinicians in a secondary healthcare organisation were reviewed through the study of practice in 10 successful partnership organisations, including knowledge worker predominant, within commercial, public and voluntary sector operating environments. Reciprocal visits to the secondary healthcare environment were undertaken. Six themes in performance related HRM were identified across the external organisations representing best practice and considered transferrable to managing clinicians in secondary care organisations. These included: performance measurement through defined outcomes at the team level with decision making through local data interpretation; performance improvement through empowered formal leadership with organisational support; individual performance review (IPR); and reward, recognition and talent management. The role of the executive was considered essential to support and implement effective HRM, with management of staff performance, behaviour and development integrated into organisational strategy, including through the use of universally applied values and effective communication. These approaches reflected many of the key aspects of high performance work systems and strategic HRM. There is the potential to develop systems of HRM of individual clinicians in secondary healthcare to improve practice. This should include both performance measurement and performance improvement but also engagement at an organisational level. This suggests that effective HRM and performance management of individual clinicians may be possible but requires an alternative approach for the NHS.

Development and Evaluation of a Sandia Cooler-based Refrigerator Condenser

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

Johnson, Terry A.; Kariya, Harumichi Arthur; Leick, Michael T.

This report describes the first design of a refrigerator condenser using the Sandia Cooler, i.e. air - bearing supported rotating heat - sink impeller. The project included ba seline performance testing of a residential refrigerator, analysis and design development of a Sandia Cooler condenser assembly including a spiral channel baseplate, and performance measurement and validation of this condenser system as incorporated into the residential refrigerator. Comparable performance was achieved in a 60% smaller volume package. The improved modeling parameters can now be used to guide more optimized designs and more accurately predict performance.

The Beast of Aggregating Cognitive Load Measures in Technology-Based Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Leppink, Jimmie; van Merriënboer, Jeroen J. G.

2015-01-01

An increasing part of cognitive load research in technology-based learning includes a component of repeated measurements, that is: participants are measured two or more times on the same performance, mental effort or other variable of interest. In many cases, researchers aggregate scores obtained from repeated measurements to one single sum or…

Further Development of Measures of Early Math Performance for Preschoolers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

VanDerHeyden, Amanda M.; Broussard, Carmen; Cooley, Amanda

2006-01-01

The purpose of this study was to examine the progress monitoring and screening accuracy for a set of curriculum-based measures (CBM) of early mathematics skills. Measures included counting objects, selecting numbers, naming numbers, counting, and visual discrimination. Measures were designed to be administered with preschoolers in a short period…

Score Fusion and Decision Fusion for the Performance Improvement of Face Recognition

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-07-01

0.1). A Hamming distance (HD) [7] is calculated with the FP-CGF to measure the similarities among faces. The matched face has the shortest HD from...then put into a face pattern byte (FPB) pixel- by-pixel. A HD is calculated with the FPB to measure the similarities among faces, and recognition is...all query users are included in the database), the recognition performance can be measured by a verification rate (VR), the percentage of the

Instrumentation & Data Acquisition System (D AS) Engineer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jackson, Markus Deon

2015-01-01

The primary job of an Instrumentation and Data Acquisition System (DAS) Engineer is to properly measure physical phenomenon of hardware using appropriate instrumentation and DAS equipment designed to record data during a specified test of the hardware. A DAS system includes a CPU or processor, a data storage device such as a hard drive, a data communication bus such as Universal Serial Bus, software to control the DAS system processes like calibrations, recording of data and processing of data. It also includes signal conditioning amplifiers, and certain sensors for specified measurements. My internship responsibilities have included testing and adjusting Pacific Instruments Model 9355 signal conditioning amplifiers, writing and performing checkout procedures, writing and performing calibration procedures while learning the basics of instrumentation.

New techniques for laser beam atmospheric extinction measurements from manned and unmanned aerospace vehicles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sabatini, Roberto; Richardson, Mark

2013-03-01

Novel techniques for laser beam atmospheric extinction measurements, suitable for several air and space platform applications, are presented in this paper. Extinction measurements are essential to support the engineering development and the operational employment of a variety of aerospace electro-optical sensor systems, allowing calculation of the range performance attainable with such systems in current and likely future applications. Such applications include ranging, weaponry, Earth remote sensing and possible planetary exploration missions performed by satellites and unmanned flight vehicles. Unlike traditional LIDAR methods, the proposed techniques are based on measurements of the laser energy (intensity and spatial distribution) incident on target surfaces of known geometric and reflective characteristics, by means of infrared detectors and/or infrared cameras calibrated for radiance. Various laser sources can be employed with wavelengths from the visible to the far infrared portions of the spectrum, allowing for data correlation and extended sensitivity. Errors affecting measurements performed using the proposed methods are discussed in the paper and algorithms are proposed that allow a direct determination of the atmospheric transmittance and spatial characteristics of the laser spot. These algorithms take into account a variety of linear and non-linear propagation effects. Finally, results are presented relative to some experimental activities performed to validate the proposed techniques. Particularly, data are presented relative to both ground and flight trials performed with laser systems operating in the near infrared (NIR) at λ= 1064 nm and λ= 1550 nm. This includes ground tests performed with 10 Hz and 20 KHz PRF NIR laser systems in a large variety of atmospheric conditions, and flight trials performed with a 10 Hz airborne NIR laser system installed on a TORNADO aircraft, flying up to altitudes of 22,000 ft.

Novel atmospheric extinction measurement techniques for aerospace laser system applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sabatini, Roberto; Richardson, Mark

2013-01-01

Novel techniques for laser beam atmospheric extinction measurements, suitable for manned and unmanned aerospace vehicle applications, are presented in this paper. Extinction measurements are essential to support the engineering development and the operational employment of a variety of aerospace electro-optical sensor systems, allowing calculation of the range performance attainable with such systems in current and likely future applications. Such applications include ranging, weaponry, Earth remote sensing and possible planetary exploration missions performed by satellites and unmanned flight vehicles. Unlike traditional LIDAR methods, the proposed techniques are based on measurements of the laser energy (intensity and spatial distribution) incident on target surfaces of known geometric and reflective characteristics, by means of infrared detectors and/or infrared cameras calibrated for radiance. Various laser sources can be employed with wavelengths from the visible to the far infrared portions of the spectrum, allowing for data correlation and extended sensitivity. Errors affecting measurements performed using the proposed methods are discussed in the paper and algorithms are proposed that allow a direct determination of the atmospheric transmittance and spatial characteristics of the laser spot. These algorithms take into account a variety of linear and non-linear propagation effects. Finally, results are presented relative to some experimental activities performed to validate the proposed techniques. Particularly, data are presented relative to both ground and flight trials performed with laser systems operating in the near infrared (NIR) at λ = 1064 nm and λ = 1550 nm. This includes ground tests performed with 10 Hz and 20 kHz PRF NIR laser systems in a large variety of atmospheric conditions, and flight trials performed with a 10 Hz airborne NIR laser system installed on a TORNADO aircraft, flying up to altitudes of 22,000 ft.

Performance of biometric quality measures.

PubMed

Grother, Patrick; Tabassi, Elham

2007-04-01

We document methods for the quantitative evaluation of systems that produce a scalar summary of a biometric sample's quality. We are motivated by a need to test claims that quality measures are predictive of matching performance. We regard a quality measurement algorithm as a black box that converts an input sample to an output scalar. We evaluate it by quantifying the association between those values and observed matching results. We advance detection error trade-off and error versus reject characteristics as metrics for the comparative evaluation of sample quality measurement algorithms. We proceed this with a definition of sample quality, a description of the operational use of quality measures. We emphasize the performance goal by including a procedure for annotating the samples of a reference corpus with quality values derived from empirical recognition scores.

More quality measures versus measuring what matters: a call for balance and parsimony

PubMed Central

Nelson, Eugene C; Pryor, David B; James, Brent; Swensen, Stephen J; Kaplan, Gary S; Weissberg, Jed I; Bisognano, Maureen; Yates, Gary R; Hunt, Gordon C

2012-01-01

External groups requiring measures now include public and private payers, regulators, accreditors and others that certify performance levels for consumers, patients and payers. Although benefits have accrued from the growth in quality measurement, the recent explosion in the number of measures threatens to shift resources from improving quality to cover a plethora of quality-performance metrics that may have a limited impact on the things that patients and payers want and need (ie, better outcomes, better care, and lower per capita costs). Here we propose a policy that quality measurement should be: balanced to meet the need of end users to judge quality and cost performance and the need of providers to continuously improve the quality, outcomes and costs of their services; and parsimonious to measure quality, outcomes and costs with appropriate metrics that are selected based on end-user needs. PMID:22893696

More quality measures versus measuring what matters: a call for balance and parsimony.

PubMed

Meyer, Gregg S; Nelson, Eugene C; Pryor, David B; James, Brent; Swensen, Stephen J; Kaplan, Gary S; Weissberg, Jed I; Bisognano, Maureen; Yates, Gary R; Hunt, Gordon C

2012-11-01

External groups requiring measures now include public and private payers, regulators, accreditors and others that certify performance levels for consumers, patients and payers. Although benefits have accrued from the growth in quality measurement, the recent explosion in the number of measures threatens to shift resources from improving quality to cover a plethora of quality-performance metrics that may have a limited impact on the things that patients and payers want and need (ie, better outcomes, better care, and lower per capita costs). Here we propose a policy that quality measurement should be: balanced to meet the need of end users to judge quality and cost performance and the need of providers to continuously improve the quality, outcomes and costs of their services; and parsimonious to measure quality, outcomes and costs with appropriate metrics that are selected based on end-user needs.

Intercomparisons of high-resolution solar blind Raman lidar atmospheric profiles of water vapor with radiosondes and kytoon

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Petri, K.; Salik, A.; Cooney, J.

1986-01-01

A report is given of measurements of atmospheric profiles of water vapor in the boundary layer by use of solar blind Raman lidar. These measurement episodes, occuring twice a day over a two week period, were accompanied by a dense net of supporting measurements. The support included two radiosonde launches per measurement episodes as well as a kytoon support measurement of water vapor using a wet bulb-dry bulb instrument. The kytoon strategy included ten minute stops at strategic altitudes. Additional kytoon measurements included ozone profiles and nephelometric extinction profiles in the visible. Typically, six or seven 1000 shot lidar profile averages were collected during a measurement episode. Overall performance comparisons are provided and intercomparisons between auxiliary measurement devices are presented. Data on the accuracy of the lidar water vapor profiles are presented.

78 FR 5461 - Proposed Information Collection Activity; Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-01-25

... for Native Americans' (ANA) established Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) measures, and (2... projects assisted through ANA grant dollars ``including evaluations that describe and measure the impact of... Colleges and Universities. [[Page 5462

Challenges and strategies in applying performance measurement to federal public health programs.

PubMed

DeGroff, Amy; Schooley, Michael; Chapel, Thomas; Poister, Theodore H

2010-11-01

Performance measurement is widely accepted in public health as an important management tool supporting program improvement and accountability. However, several challenges impede developing and implementing performance measurement systems at the federal level, including the complexity of public health problems that reflect multiple determinants and involve outcomes that may take years to achieve, the decentralized and networked nature of public health program implementation, and the lack of reliable and consistent data sources and other issues related to measurement. All three of these challenges hinder the ability to attribute program results to specific public health program efforts. The purpose of this paper is to explore these issues in detail and offer potential solutions that support the development of robust and practical performance measures to meet the needs for program improvement and accountability. Adapting performance measurement to public health programs is both an evolving science and art. Through the strategies presented here, appropriate systems can be developed and monitored to support the production of meaningful data that will inform effective decision making at multiple levels. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Verbal monitoring in Parkinson’s disease: A comparison between internal and external monitoring

PubMed Central

Mertens, Jolien; Mariën, Peter; Santens, Patrick; Pickut, Barbara A.; Hartsuiker, Robert J.

2017-01-01

Patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) display a variety of impairments in motor and non-motor language processes; speech is decreased on motor aspects such as amplitude, prosody and speed and on linguistic aspects including grammar and fluency. Here we investigated whether verbal monitoring is impaired and what the relative contributions of the internal and external monitoring route are on verbal monitoring in patients with PD relative to controls. Furthermore, the data were used to investigate whether internal monitoring performance could be predicted by internal speech perception tasks, as perception based monitoring theories assume. Performance of 18 patients with Parkinson’s disease was measured on two cognitive performance tasks and a battery of 11 linguistic tasks, including tasks that measured performance on internal and external monitoring. Results were compared with those of 16 age-matched healthy controls. PD patients and controls generally performed similarly on the linguistic and monitoring measures. However, we observed qualitative differences in the effects of noise masking on monitoring and disfluencies and in the extent to which the linguistic tasks predicted monitoring behavior. We suggest that the patients differ from healthy subjects in their recruitment of monitoring channels. PMID:28832595

Assessing a cross-border logistics policy using a performance measurement system framework: the case of Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta region

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wong, David W. C.; Choy, K. L.; Chow, Harry K. H.; Lin, Canhong

2014-06-01

For the most rapidly growing economic entity in the world, China, a new logistics operation called the indirect cross-border supply chain model has recently emerged. The primary idea of this model is to reduce logistics costs by storing goods at a bonded warehouse with low storage cost in certain Chinese regions, such as the Pearl River Delta (PRD). This research proposes a performance measurement system (PMS) framework to assess the direct and indirect cross-border supply chain models. The PMS covers four categories including cost, time, quality and flexibility in the assessment of the performance of direct and indirect models. Furthermore, a survey was conducted to investigate the logistics performance of third party logistics (3PLs) at the PRD regions, including Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Hong Kong. The significance of the proposed PMS framework allows 3PLs accurately pinpoint the weakness and strengths of it current operations policy at four major performance measurement categories. Hence, this helps 3PLs further enhance the competitiveness and operations efficiency through better resources allocation at the area of warehousing and transportation.

Optimal anthropometric measures and thresholds to identify undiagnosed type 2 diabetes in three major Asian ethnic groups.

PubMed

Alperet, Derrick Johnston; Lim, Wei-Yen; Mok-Kwee Heng, Derrick; Ma, Stefan; van Dam, Rob M

2016-10-01

To identify optimal anthropometric measures and cutoffs to identify undiagnosed diabetes mellitus (UDM) in three major Asian ethnic groups (Chinese, Malays, and Asian-Indians). Cross-sectional data were analyzed from 14,815 ethnic Chinese, Malay, and Asian-Indian participants of the Singapore National Health Surveys, which included anthropometric measures and an oral glucose tolerance test. Receiver operating characteristic curve analyses were used with calculation of the area under the curve (AUC) to evaluate the performance of body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), and waist-to-height ratio (WHTR) for the identification of UDM. BMI performed significantly worse (AUCMEN  = 0.70; AUCWOMEN  = 0.75) than abdominal measures, whereas WHTR (AUCMEN  = 0.76; AUCWOMEN  = 0.79) was among the best performing measures in both sexes and all ethnic groups. Anthropometric measures performed better in Chinese than in Asian-Indian participants for the identification of UDM. A WHTR cutoff of 0.52 appeared optimal with a sensitivity of 76% in men and 73% in women and a specificity of 63% in men and 70% in women. Although ethnic differences were observed in the performance of anthropometric measures for the identification of UDM, abdominal adiposity measures generally performed better than BMI, and WHTR performed best in all Asian ethnic groups. © 2016 The Obesity Society.

Managing for Results in America's Great City Schools. A Report of the Performance Measurement and Benchmarking Project

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Council of the Great City Schools, 2012

2012-01-01

"Managing for Results in America's Great City Schools, 2012" is presented by the Council of the Great City Schools to its members and the public. The purpose of the project was and is to develop performance measures that can improve the business operations of urban public school districts nationwide. This year's report includes data from 61 of the…

A balanced perspective: using nonfinancial measures to assess financial performance.

PubMed

Watkins, Ann L

2003-11-01

Assessments of hospitals' financial performance have traditionally been based exclusively on analysis of a concise set of key financial ratios. One study, however, demonstrates that analysis of a hospital's financial condition can be significantly enhanced with the addition of several nonfinancial measures, including case-mix adjusted admissions, case-mix adjusted admissions per full-time equivalent, and case-mix adjusted admissions per beds in service.

The Development of a Secondary-Level Solo Wind Instrument Performance Rubric Using the Multifaceted Rasch Partial Credit Measurement Model

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wesolowski, Brian C.; Amend, Ross M.; Barnstead, Thomas S.; Edwards, Andrew S.; Everhart, Matthew; Goins, Quentin R.; Grogan, Robert J., III; Herceg, Amanda M.; Jenkins, S. Ira; Johns, Paul M.; McCarver, Christopher J.; Schaps, Robin E.; Sorrell, Gary W.; Williams, Jonathan D.

2017-01-01

The purpose of this study was to describe the development of a valid and reliable rubric to assess secondary-level solo instrumental music performance based on principles of invariant measurement. The research questions that guided this study included (1) What is the psychometric quality (i.e., validity, reliability, and precision) of a scale…

SECO containment data report

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

Stubbs, T.; Heinle, R.

1997-06-01

This containment data report for the SECO event provides a description of the event, including the site, emplacement, and instrumentation. Stemming performance is reported, including radiation, pressure, collapse phenomena, and motion. Surface array measurements are provided.

Case-Mix Adjusting Performance Measures in a Veteran Population: Pharmacy- and Diagnosis-Based Approaches

PubMed Central

Liu, Chuan-Fen; Sales, Anne E; Sharp, Nancy D; Fishman, Paul; Sloan, Kevin L; Todd-Stenberg, Jeff; Nichol, W Paul; Rosen, Amy K; Loveland, Susan

2003-01-01

Objective To compare the rankings for health care utilization performance measures at the facility level in a Veterans Health Administration (VHA) health care delivery network using pharmacy- and diagnosis-based case-mix adjustment measures. Data Sources/Study Setting The study included veterans who used inpatient or outpatient services in Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN) 20 during fiscal year 1998 (October 1997 to September 1998; N=126,076). Utilization and pharmacy data were extracted from VHA national databases and the VISN 20 data warehouse. Study Design We estimated concurrent regression models using pharmacy or diagnosis information in the base year (FY1998) to predict health service utilization in the same year. Utilization measures included bed days of care for inpatient care and provider visits for outpatient care. Principal Findings Rankings of predicted utilization measures across facilities vary by case-mix adjustment measure. There is greater consistency within the diagnosis-based models than between the diagnosis- and pharmacy-based models. The eight facilities were ranked differently by the diagnosis- and pharmacy-based models. Conclusions Choice of case-mix adjustment measure affects rankings of facilities on performance measures, raising concerns about the validity of profiling practices. Differences in rankings may reflect differences in comparability of data capture across facilities between pharmacy and diagnosis data sources, and unstable estimates due to small numbers of patients in a facility. PMID:14596393

Basic Surveying Technology.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Olson, David A.; Kellum, Mary, Ed.

This document is intended to help teachers prepare students to perform the duties of any member of a surveying party, including those of party chief, in the field and in the office. It contains instructional units on introduction to surveying, safety, horizontal measurements, vertical measurements, angles and directions, angular measurements,…

High heat flux measurements and experimental calibrations/characterizations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kidd, Carl T.

1992-01-01

Recent progress in techniques employed in the measurement of very high heat-transfer rates in reentry-type facilities at the Arnold Engineering Development Center (AEDC) is described. These advances include thermal analyses applied to transducer concepts used to make these measurements; improved heat-flux sensor fabrication methods, equipment, and procedures for determining the experimental time response of individual sensors; performance of absolute heat-flux calibrations at levels above 2,000 Btu/cu ft-sec (2.27 kW/cu cm); and innovative methods of performing in-situ run-to-run characterizations of heat-flux probes installed in the test facility. Graphical illustrations of the results of extensive thermal analyses of the null-point calorimeter and coaxial surface thermocouple concepts with application to measurements in aerothermal test environments are presented. Results of time response experiments and absolute calibrations of null-point calorimeters and coaxial thermocouples performed in the laboratory at intermediate to high heat-flux levels are shown. Typical AEDC high-enthalpy arc heater heat-flux data recently obtained with a Calspan-fabricated null-point probe model are included.

Individual Differences in Inhibitory Control Skills at Three Years of Age

PubMed Central

Watson, Amanda J.; Bell, Martha Ann

2013-01-01

Sixty-eight 3-year-old children participated in an investigation of inhibitory control (IC). Child IC was measured using various tasks in order to determine the impact on child performance of manipulating task demands. Performance on a nonverbal IC task, but not performance on more difficult motivational or traditional IC tasks, was explained by medial frontal electroencephalographic activity and by language abilities. Because of the unique relations of nonverbal IC with concurrent developmental measures, and because of its potential to predict later social problems, we conclude that it is important to include nonverbal IC measures in investigative IC batteries in early childhood. PMID:23311312

Profiling outcomes of ambulatory care: casemix affects perceived performance.

PubMed

Berlowitz, D R; Ash, A S; Hickey, E C; Kader, B; Friedman, R; Moskowitz, M A

1998-06-01

The authors explored the role of casemix adjustment when profiling outcomes of ambulatory care. The authors reviewed the medical records of 656 patients with hypertension, diabetes, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) receiving care at one of three Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers. Outcomes included measures of physiological control for hypertension and diabetes, and of exacerbations for COPD. Predictors of poor outcomes, including physical examination findings, symptoms, and comorbidities, were identified and entered into regression models. Observed minus expected performance was described for each site, both before and after casemix adjustment. Risk-adjustment models were developed that were clinically plausible and had good performance properties. Differences existed among the three sites in the severity of the patients being cared for. For example, the percentage of patients expected to have poor blood pressure control were 35% at site 1, 37% at site 2, and 44% at site 3 (P < 0.01). Casemix-adjusted measures of performance were different from unadjusted measures. Sites that were outliers (P < 0.05) with one approach had observed performance no different from expected with another approach. Casemix adjustment models can be developed for outpatient medical conditions. Sites differ in the severity of patients they treat, and adjusting for these differences can alter judgments of site performance. Casemix adjustment is necessary when profiling outpatient medical conditions.

Performance measurement in cancer care: uses and challenges.

PubMed

Lazar, G S; Desch, C E

1998-05-15

Unnecessary, inappropriate, and futile care are given in all areas of health care including cancer care. Not only does such care increase costs and waste precious resources, but patients may have adverse outcomes when the wrong care is given. One of the ways to address this issue is to measure performance with the use of administrative data sets. Through performance measurement, the best providers can be chosen, providers can be rewarded on the basis of the quality of their performance, opportunities for improvement can be identified, and variation in practice can be minimized. Purchasers should take leadership role in creating data sets that will enhance, clinical performance. Specifically, purchasers should require the following from payers: 1) staging information; 2) requirements and/or incentives for proper International Classification of Diseases coding, including other important (comorbid) conditions; 3) incentives or requirements for proper data collection if the payer is using a reimbursement strategy that places the risk on the provider; and 4) a willingness to collect and report information to providers of care, with a view toward increasing quality and decreasing the costs of cancer care. Demanding better clinical performance can lead to better outcomes. Once good data is presented to patients and providers, better clinical behavior and improved cancer care systems will quickly follow.

Improving trends in gender disparities in the Department of Veterans Affairs: 2008-2013.

PubMed

Whitehead, Alison M; Czarnogorski, Maggie; Wright, Steve M; Hayes, Patricia M; Haskell, Sally G

2014-09-01

Increasing numbers of women veterans using Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) services has contributed to the need for equitable, high-quality care for women. The VA has evaluated performance measure data by gender since 2006. In 2008, the VA launched a 5-year women's health redesign, and, in 2011, gender disparity improvement was included on leadership performance plans. We examined data from VA Office of Analytics and Business Intelligence quarterly gender reports for trends in gender disparities in gender-neutral performance measures from 2008 to 2013. Through reporting of data by gender, leadership involvement, electronic reminders, and population management dashboards, VA has seen a decreasing trend in gender inequities on most Health Effectiveness Data and Information Set performance measures.

Performance Indicators in Math: Implications for Brief Experimental Analysis of Academic Performance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

VanDerheyden, Amanda M.; Burns, Matthew K.

2009-01-01

Brief experimental analysis (BEA) can be used to specify intervention characteristics that produce positive learning gains for individual students. A key challenge to the use of BEA for intervention planning is the identification of performance indicators (including topography of the skill, measurement characteristics, and decision criteria) that…

Measuring Student Performance in General Organic Chemistry

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Austin, Ara C.; Ben-Daat, Hagit; Zhu, Mary; Atkinson, Robert; Barrows, Nathan; Gould, Ian R.

2015-01-01

Student performance in general organic chemistry courses is determined by a wide range of factors including cognitive ability, motivation and cultural capital. Previous work on cognitive factors has tended to focus on specific areas rather than exploring performance across all problem types and cognitive skills. In this study, we have categorized…

Analytical simulation of SPS system performance, volume 3, phase 3

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kantak, A. V.; Lindsey, W. C.

1980-01-01

The simulation model for the Solar Power Satellite spaceantenna and the associated system imperfections are described. Overall power transfer efficiency, the key performance issue, is discussed as a function of the system imperfections. Other system performance measures discussed include average power pattern, mean beam gain reduction, and pointing error.

MEASUREMENT OF VOLATILE ORGANIC COMPOUNDS BY THE US ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY COMPENDIUM METHOD TO-17 - EVALUATION OF PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

EPA Science Inventory

An evaluation of performance criteria for US Environmental Protection Agency Compendium Method TO-17 for monitoring volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in air has been accomplished. The method is a solid adsorbent-based sampling and analytical procedure including performance crit...

42 CFR 457.710 - State plan requirements: Strategic objectives and performance goals.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

.... The State's strategic objectives, performance goals and performance measures must include a common... 42 Public Health 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false State plan requirements: Strategic objectives and...) ALLOTMENTS AND GRANTS TO STATES Strategic Planning, Reporting, and Evaluation § 457.710 State plan...

42 CFR 416.43 - Conditions for coverage-Quality assessment and performance improvement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... outcomes, patient safety, and quality of care. (2) Performance improvement activities must track adverse... patient safety by using quality indicators or performance measures associated with improved health... that includes care and services furnished in the ASC. (b) Standard: Program data. (1) The program must...

A Look at How Agencies Can Utilize Outcome and Performance Data To Enhance Service Delivery.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Resources for Welfare Decisions, 2002

2002-01-01

This issue focuses on a variety of performance measurement and outcome data resources as they relate to evaluating service delivery performance in areas that include employment (welfare-to-work and performance bonuses for work participation) and child welfare, as well as some general Temporary Assistance to Needy Families program areas. It also…

13 CFR 120.424 - What are the basic conditions a Lender must meet to securitize?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... performance, as determined by SBA in its discretion. The Lender's Risk Rating, among other factors, will be considered in determining satisfactory SBA performance. Other factors may include, but are not limited to, on... and loss rate), loan volume to the extent that it impacts performance measures, and other performance...

20 CFR 661.205 - What is the role of the State Board?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... performance measures, including State adjusted levels of performance, to assess the effectiveness of the... employment statistics system described in section 15(e) of the Wagner-Peyser Act; and (i) Development of an...

Photovoltaic Performance and Reliability Workshop summary

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kroposki, Benjamin

1997-02-01

The objective of the Photovoltaic Performance and Reliability Workshop was to provide a forum where the entire photovoltaic (PV) community (manufacturers, researchers, system designers, and customers) could get together and discuss technical issues relating to PV. The workshop included presentations from twenty-five speakers and had more than one hundred attendees. This workshop also included several open sessions in which the audience and speakers could discuss technical subjects in depth. Several major topics were discussed including: PV characterization and measurements, service lifetimes for PV devices, degradation and failure mechanisms for PV devices, standardization of testing procedures, AC module performance and reliability testing, inverter performance and reliability testing, standardization of utility interconnect requirements, experience from field deployed systems, and system certification.

Analysis of new measurements of Calvert Cliffs spent fuel samples using SCALE 6.2

DOE PAGES

Hu, Jianwei; Giaquinto, J. M.; Gauld, I. C.; ...

2017-04-28

High quality experimental data for isotopic compositions in irradiated fuel are important to spent fuel applications, including nuclear safeguards, spent fuel storage, transportation, and final disposal. The importance of these data has been increasingly recognized in recent years, particularly as countries like Finland and Sweden plan to open the world’s first two spent fuel geological repositories in 2020s, while other countries, including the United States, are considering extended dry fuel storage options. Destructive and nondestructive measurements of a spent fuel rod segment from a Combustion Engineering 14 × 14 fuel assembly of the Calvert Cliffs Unit 1 nuclear reactor havemore » been recently performed at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). These ORNL measurements included two samples selected from adjacent axial locations of a fuel rod with initial enrichment of 3.038 wt% 235U, which achieved burnups close to 43.5 GWd/MTU. More than 50 different isotopes of 16 elements were measured using high precision measurement methods. Various investigations have assessed the quality of the new ORNL measurement data, including comparison to previous measurements and to calculation results. Previous measurement data for samples from the same fuel rod measured at ORNL are available from experiments performed at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in the United States and the Khoplin Radium Institute in Russia. Detailed assembly models were developed using the newly released SCALE 6.2 code package to simulate depletion and decay of the measured fuel samples. Furthermore, results from this work show that the new ORNL measurements provide a good quality radiochemical assay data set for spent fuel with relatively high burnup and long cooling time, and they can serve as good benchmark data for nuclear burnup code validation and spent fuel studies.« less

Analysis of new measurements of Calvert Cliffs spent fuel samples using SCALE 6.2

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

Hu, Jianwei; Giaquinto, J. M.; Gauld, I. C.

High quality experimental data for isotopic compositions in irradiated fuel are important to spent fuel applications, including nuclear safeguards, spent fuel storage, transportation, and final disposal. The importance of these data has been increasingly recognized in recent years, particularly as countries like Finland and Sweden plan to open the world’s first two spent fuel geological repositories in 2020s, while other countries, including the United States, are considering extended dry fuel storage options. Destructive and nondestructive measurements of a spent fuel rod segment from a Combustion Engineering 14 × 14 fuel assembly of the Calvert Cliffs Unit 1 nuclear reactor havemore » been recently performed at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). These ORNL measurements included two samples selected from adjacent axial locations of a fuel rod with initial enrichment of 3.038 wt% 235U, which achieved burnups close to 43.5 GWd/MTU. More than 50 different isotopes of 16 elements were measured using high precision measurement methods. Various investigations have assessed the quality of the new ORNL measurement data, including comparison to previous measurements and to calculation results. Previous measurement data for samples from the same fuel rod measured at ORNL are available from experiments performed at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in the United States and the Khoplin Radium Institute in Russia. Detailed assembly models were developed using the newly released SCALE 6.2 code package to simulate depletion and decay of the measured fuel samples. Furthermore, results from this work show that the new ORNL measurements provide a good quality radiochemical assay data set for spent fuel with relatively high burnup and long cooling time, and they can serve as good benchmark data for nuclear burnup code validation and spent fuel studies.« less

Using intraindividual variability to detect malingering in cognitive performance.

PubMed

Strauss, E; Hultsch, D F; Hunter, M; Slick, D J; Patry, B; Levy-Bencheton, J

1999-11-01

The utility of measures for detecting malingering was evaluated using a simulation design in which half the participants were encouraged to do their best and half were asked to feign head injury. Particular attention was focused on the utility of repeated assessment (intraindividual variability) in discriminating the groups. Participants were tested on three occasions on measures commonly used to detect malingering including a specific symptom validity test (SVT). The results indicated that multiple measures of malingering obtained in single assessment (occasion one) discriminated the groups effectively. In addition, however, intraindividual variability in performance, particularly of indicators from the SVT, provided unique information beyond level of performance. The results suggest that response inconsistency across testing sessions may be a clinically useful measure for the detection of malingering.

Software-defined Radio Based Measurement Platform for Wireless Networks

PubMed Central

Chao, I-Chun; Lee, Kang B.; Candell, Richard; Proctor, Frederick; Shen, Chien-Chung; Lin, Shinn-Yan

2015-01-01

End-to-end latency is critical to many distributed applications and services that are based on computer networks. There has been a dramatic push to adopt wireless networking technologies and protocols (such as WiFi, ZigBee, WirelessHART, Bluetooth, ISA100.11a, etc.) into time-critical applications. Examples of such applications include industrial automation, telecommunications, power utility, and financial services. While performance measurement of wired networks has been extensively studied, measuring and quantifying the performance of wireless networks face new challenges and demand different approaches and techniques. In this paper, we describe the design of a measurement platform based on the technologies of software-defined radio (SDR) and IEEE 1588 Precision Time Protocol (PTP) for evaluating the performance of wireless networks. PMID:27891210

Software-defined Radio Based Measurement Platform for Wireless Networks.

PubMed

Chao, I-Chun; Lee, Kang B; Candell, Richard; Proctor, Frederick; Shen, Chien-Chung; Lin, Shinn-Yan

2015-10-01

End-to-end latency is critical to many distributed applications and services that are based on computer networks. There has been a dramatic push to adopt wireless networking technologies and protocols (such as WiFi, ZigBee, WirelessHART, Bluetooth, ISA100.11a, etc. ) into time-critical applications. Examples of such applications include industrial automation, telecommunications, power utility, and financial services. While performance measurement of wired networks has been extensively studied, measuring and quantifying the performance of wireless networks face new challenges and demand different approaches and techniques. In this paper, we describe the design of a measurement platform based on the technologies of software-defined radio (SDR) and IEEE 1588 Precision Time Protocol (PTP) for evaluating the performance of wireless networks.

International Continence Society guidelines on urodynamic equipment performance.

PubMed

Gammie, Andrew; Clarkson, Becky; Constantinou, Chris; Damaser, Margot; Drinnan, Michael; Geleijnse, Geert; Griffiths, Derek; Rosier, Peter; Schäfer, Werner; Van Mastrigt, Ron

2014-04-01

These guidelines provide benchmarks for the performance of urodynamic equipment, and have been developed by the International Continence Society to assist purchasing decisions, design requirements, and performance checks. The guidelines suggest ranges of specification for uroflowmetry, volume, pressure, and EMG measurement, along with recommendations for user interfaces and performance tests. Factors affecting measurement relating to the different technologies used are also described. Summary tables of essential and desirable features are included for ease of reference. It is emphasized that these guidelines can only contribute to good urodynamics if equipment is used properly, in accordance with good practice. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Conversion of cardiac performance data in analog form for digital computer entry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miller, R. L.

1972-01-01

A system is presented which will reduce analog cardiac performance data and convert the results to digital form for direct entry into a commercial time-shared computer. Circuits are discussed which perform the measurement and digital conversion of instantaneous systolic and diastolic parameters from the analog blood pressure waveform. Digital averaging over a selected number of heart cycles is performed on these measurements, as well as those of flow and heart rate. The determination of average cardiac output and peripheral resistance, including trends, is the end result after processing by digital computer.

Multisource Feedback in the Ambulatory Setting

PubMed Central

Warm, Eric J.; Schauer, Daniel; Revis, Brian; Boex, James R.

2010-01-01

Background The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education has mandated multisource feedback (MSF) in the ambulatory setting for internal medicine residents. Few published reports demonstrate actual MSF results for a residency class, and fewer still include clinical quality measures and knowledge-based testing performance in the data set. Methods Residents participating in a year-long group practice experience called the “long-block” received MSF that included self, peer, staff, attending physician, and patient evaluations, as well as concomitant clinical quality data and knowledge-based testing scores. Residents were given a rank for each data point compared with peers in the class, and these data were reviewed with the chief resident and program director over the course of the long-block. Results Multisource feedback identified residents who performed well on most measures compared with their peers (10%), residents who performed poorly on most measures compared with their peers (10%), and residents who performed well on some measures and poorly on others (80%). Each high-, intermediate-, and low-performing resident had a least one aspect of the MSF that was significantly lower than the other, and this served as the basis of formative feedback during the long-block. Conclusion Use of multi-source feedback in the ambulatory setting can identify high-, intermediate-, and low-performing residents and suggest specific formative feedback for each. More research needs to be done on the effect of such feedback, as well as the relationships between each of the components in the MSF data set. PMID:21975632

Comparison of Quality Oncology Practice Initiative (QOPI) Measure Adherence Between Oncology Fellows, Advanced Practice Providers, and Attending Physicians.

PubMed

Zhu, Jason; Zhang, Tian; Shah, Radhika; Kamal, Arif H; Kelley, Michael J

2015-12-01

Quality improvement measures are uniformly applied to all oncology providers, regardless of their roles. Little is known about differences in adherence to these measures between oncology fellows, advance practice providers (APP), and attending physicians. We investigated conformance across Quality Oncology Practice Initiative (QOPI) measures for oncology fellows, advance practice providers, and attending physicians at the Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center (DVAMC). Using data collected from the Spring 2012 and 2013 QOPI cycles, we abstracted charts of patients and separated them based on their primary provider. Descriptive statistics and the chi-square test were calculated for each QOPI measure between fellows, advanced practice providers (APPs), and attending physicians. A total of 169 patients were reviewed. Of these, 31 patients had a fellow, 39 had an APP, and 99 had an attending as their primary oncology provider. Fellows and attending physicians performed similarly on 90 of 94 QOPI metrics. High-performing metrics included several core QOPI measures including documenting consent for chemotherapy, recommending adjuvant chemotherapy when appropriate, and prescribing serotonin antagonists when prescribing emetogenic chemotherapies. Low-performing metrics included documentation of treatment summary and taking action to address problems with emotional well-being by the second office visit. Attendings documented the plan for oral chemotherapy more often (92 vs. 63%, P=0.049). However, after the chart audit, we found that fellows actually documented the plan for oral chemotherapy 88% of the time (p=0.73). APPs and attendings performed similarly on 88 of 90 QOPI measures. The quality of oncology care tends to be similar between attendings and fellows overall; some of the significant differences do not remain significant after a second manual chart review, highlighting that the use of manual data collection for QOPI analysis is an imperfect system, and there may be significant inter-observer variability.

Analysis of Advanced Rotorcraft Configurations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, Wayne

2000-01-01

Advanced rotorcraft configurations are being investigated with the objectives of identifying vehicles that are larger, quieter, and faster than current-generation rotorcraft. A large rotorcraft, carrying perhaps 150 passengers, could do much to alleviate airport capacity limitations, and a quiet rotorcraft is essential for community acceptance of the benefits of VTOL operations. A fast, long-range, long-endurance rotorcraft, notably the tilt-rotor configuration, will improve rotorcraft economics through productivity increases. A major part of the investigation of advanced rotorcraft configurations consists of conducting comprehensive analyses of vehicle behavior for the purpose of assessing vehicle potential and feasibility, as well as to establish the analytical models required to support the vehicle development. The analytical work of FY99 included applications to tilt-rotor aircraft. Tilt Rotor Aeroacoustic Model (TRAM) wind tunnel measurements are being compared with calculations performed by using the comprehensive analysis tool (Comprehensive Analytical Model of Rotorcraft Aerodynamics and Dynamics (CAMRAD 11)). The objective is to establish the wing and wake aerodynamic models that are required for tilt-rotor analysis and design. The TRAM test in the German-Dutch Wind Tunnel (DNW) produced extensive measurements. This is the first test to encompass air loads, performance, and structural load measurements on tilt rotors, as well as acoustic and flow visualization data. The correlation of measurements and calculations includes helicopter-mode operation (performance, air loads, and blade structural loads), hover (performance and air loads), and airplane-mode operation (performance).

Global tropospheric experiment at the Hong Kong Atmosphere Chemistry Measurement Station

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carroll, Mary Ann; Wang, Tao

1995-01-01

The major activities of the Global Tropospheric Experiment at the Hong Kong Atmospheric Chemistry Measurement Station are presented for the period 1 January - 31 December 1995. Activities included data analysis, reduction, and archiving of atmospheric measurements and sampling. Sampling included O3, CO, SO2, NO, TSP, RSP, and ozone column density. A data archive was created for the surface meteorological data. Exploratory data analysis was performed, including examination of time series, frequency distributions, diurnal variations and correlation. The major results have been or will be published in scientific journals as well as presented at conferences/workshops. Abstracts are attached.

Reliability and validity of two self-report measures of impairment and disability for MS. North American Research Consortium on Multiple Sclerosis Outcomes Study Group.

PubMed

Schwartz, C E; Vollmer, T; Lee, H

1999-01-01

To describe the results of a multicenter study that validated two new patient-reported measures of neurologic impairment and disability for use in MS clinical research. Self-reported data can provide a cost-effective means to assess patient functioning, and can be useful for screening patients who require additional evaluation. Thirteen MS centers from the United States and Canada implemented a cross-sectional validation study of two new measures of neurologic function. The Symptom Inventory is a measure of neurologic impairment with six subscales designed to correlate with localization of brain lesion. The Performance Scales measure disability in eight domains of function: mobility, hand function, vision, fatigue, cognition, bladder/bowel, sensory, and spasticity. Measures given for comparison included a neurologic examination (Expanded Disability Status Scale, Ambulation Index, Disease Steps) as well as the patient-reported Health Status Questionnaire and the Quality of Well-being Index. Participants included 274 MS patients and 296 healthy control subjects who were matched to patients on age, gender, and education. Both the Symptom Inventory and the Performance Scales showed high test-retest and internal consistency reliability. Correlational analyses supported the construct validity of both measures. Discriminant function analysis reduced the Symptom Inventory to 29 items without sacrificing reliability and increased its discriminant validity. The Performance Scales explained more variance in clinical outcomes and global quality of life than the Symptom Inventory, and there was some evidence that the two measures complemented each other in predicting Quality of Well-being Index scores. The Symptom Inventory and the Performance Scales are reliable and valid measures.

Performance analysis and evaluation of direct phase measuring deflectometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Ping; Gao, Nan; Zhang, Zonghua; Gao, Feng; Jiang, Xiangqian

2018-04-01

Three-dimensional (3D) shape measurement of specular objects plays an important role in intelligent manufacturing applications. Phase measuring deflectometry (PMD)-based methods are widely used to obtain the 3D shapes of specular surfaces because they offer the advantages of a large dynamic range, high measurement accuracy, full-field and noncontact operation, and automatic data processing. To enable measurement of specular objects with discontinuous and/or isolated surfaces, a direct PMD (DPMD) method has been developed to build a direct relationship between phase and depth. In this paper, a new virtual measurement system is presented and is used to optimize the system parameters and evaluate the system's performance in DPMD applications. Four system parameters are analyzed to obtain accurate measurement results. Experiments are performed using simulated and actual data and the results confirm the effects of these four parameters on the measurement results. Researchers can therefore select suitable system parameters for actual DPMD (including PMD) measurement systems to obtain the 3D shapes of specular objects with high accuracy.

Designing for resilience

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dwivedi, Anurag

2014-06-01

The motivation for this work comes from a desire to improve resilience of mission critical cyber enabled systems including those used in critical infrastructure domains such as cyber, power, water, fuel, financial, healthcare, agriculture, and manufacturing. Resilience can be defined as the ability of a system to persistently meet its performance requirements despite the occurrence of adverse events. Characterizing the resilience of a system requires a clear definition of the performance requirements of the system of interest and an ability to quantify the impact on performance by the adverse events of concern. A quantitative characterization of system resilience allows the resilience requirements to be included in the system design criteria. Resilience requirements of a system are derived from the service level agreements (SLAs), measures of effectiveness (MOEs), and measures of performance (MOPs) of the services or missions supported by the system. This paper describes a methodology for designing resilient systems. The components of the methodology include resilience characterization for threat models associated with various exposure modes, requirements mapping, subsystem ranking based on criticality, and selective implementation of mitigations to improve system resilience to a desired level.

45 CFR 305.2 - Performance measures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... establishment percentage (commonly known as the PEP). The count of children shall not include any child who is a... count. The equation to compute the measure is as follows (expressed as a percent): ER27DE00.047 (3...

45 CFR 305.2 - Performance measures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... establishment percentage (commonly known as the PEP). The count of children shall not include any child who is a... count. The equation to compute the measure is as follows (expressed as a percent): ER27DE00.047 (3...

45 CFR 305.2 - Performance measures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... establishment percentage (commonly known as the PEP). The count of children shall not include any child who is a... count. The equation to compute the measure is as follows (expressed as a percent): ER27DE00.047 (3...

45 CFR 305.2 - Performance measures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... establishment percentage (commonly known as the PEP). The count of children shall not include any child who is a... count. The equation to compute the measure is as follows (expressed as a percent): ER27DE00.047 (3...

45 CFR 305.2 - Performance measures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... establishment percentage (commonly known as the PEP). The count of children shall not include any child who is a... count. The equation to compute the measure is as follows (expressed as a percent): ER27DE00.047 (3...

Self-rated health and mortality: could clinical and performance-based measures of health and functioning explain the association?

PubMed

Lyyra, Tiina-Mari; Heikkinen, Eino; Lyyra, Anna-Liisa; Jylhä, Marja

2006-01-01

It is well established that self-rated health (SRH) predicts mortality even when other indicators of health status are taken into account. It has been suggested that SRH measures a wide array of mortality-related physiological and pathological characteristics not captured by the covariates included in the analyses. Our aim was to test this hypothesis by examining the predictive value of SRH on mortality controlling for different measurements of body structure, performance-based functioning and diagnosed diseases with a population-based, prospective study over an 18-year follow-up. Subjects consisted of 257 male residents of the city of Jyväskylä, central Finland, aged 51-55 and 71-75 years. Among the 71-75-year-olds the association between SRH and mortality was weaker over the longer compared to shorter follow-up period. In the multivariate Cox regression models with an 18-year follow-up time for middle-aged and a10-year follow-up time for older men, SRH predicted mortality even when the anthropometrics, clinical chemistry and performance-based measures of functioning were controlled for, but not when the number of chronic diseases was included. Although our results confirm the hypothesis that the predictive value of SRH can be explained by diagnosed diseases, its predictive power remained, when the clinical and performance-based measures of health and functioning were controlled.

Evaluation of the infrared test method for the olympus thermal balance tests

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Donato, M.; Stpierre, D.; Green, J.; Reeves, M.

1986-01-01

The performance of the infrared (IR) rig used for the thermal balance testing of the Olympus S/C thermal model is discussed. Included in this evaluation are the rig effects themselves, the IRFLUX computer code used to predict the radiation inputs, the Monitored Background Radiometers (MBR's) developed to measure the absorbed radiation flux intensity, the Uniform Temperature Reference (UTR) based temperature measurement system and the data acquisition system. A preliminary set of verification tests were performed on a 1 m x 1 m zone to assess the performance of the IR lamps, calrods, MBR's and aluminized baffles. The results were used, in part, to obtain some empirical data required for the IRFLUX code. This data included lamp and calrod characteristics, the absorptance function for various surface types, and the baffle reflectivities.

Relationship Between Cognitive Assessment and Balance Measures in Adolescents Referred for Vestibular Physical Therapy After Concussion

PubMed Central

Alsalaheen, Bara A.; Whitney, Susan L.; Marchetti, Gregory F.; Furman, Joseph M.; Kontos, Anthony P.; Collins, Michael W.; Sparto, Patrick J.

2016-01-01

Objective To examine the relationship between cognitive and balance performance in adolescents with concussion. Design Retrospective case series. Setting Tertiary. Patients Sixty patients. Interventions Correlation analyses were performed to describe the relationship between symptoms, cognitive measure, and balance measure at the time of initiation of vestibular physical therapy. Main Outcome Measures Cognitive performance was assessed using the Immediate Post-concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing (ImPACT). The dizziness and balance function measures included dizziness severity rating, Activities-specific Balance Confidence scale (ABC), Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI), Functional Gait Assessment, gait speed, Timed “UP and GO,” Five Times Sit to Stand, and Sensory Organization Test (SOT). To account for multiple comparisons, the False Discovery Rate method was used. Results Performance measures of balance were significantly correlated with cognitive measures. Greater total symptom scores were related to greater impairment in the ABC and DHI (r = 0.35-0.39, P ≤ 0.008) and worse performance in condition 2 of the SOT (r = −0.48, P = 0.004). Among the ImPACT composite scores, lower memory scores were correlated with impaired balance performance measures (r = 0.37-0.59, P ≤ 0.012). Lower visual memory was also correlated with worse ABC scores. Conclusions The significant relationships reported between the cognitive performance scores and balance measures may reflect that similar levels of functioning exist across domains in individuals with protracted recovery who receive vestibular physical therapy. PMID:25706663

Rating and Ranking the Role of Bibliometrics and Webometrics in Nursing and Midwifery

PubMed Central

Davidson, Patricia M.; Newton, Phillip J.; Ferguson, Caleb

2014-01-01

Background. Bibliometrics are an essential aspect of measuring academic and organizational performance. Aim. This review seeks to describe methods for measuring bibliometrics, identify the strengths and limitations of methodologies, outline strategies for interpretation, summarise evaluation of nursing and midwifery performance, identify implications for metric of evaluation, and specify the implications for nursing and midwifery and implications of social networking for bibliometrics and measures of individual performance. Method. A review of electronic databases CINAHL, Medline, and Scopus was undertaken using search terms such as bibliometrics, nursing, and midwifery. The reference lists of retrieved articles and Internet sources and social media platforms were also examined. Results. A number of well-established, formal ways of assessment have been identified, including h- and c-indices. Changes in publication practices and the use of the Internet have challenged traditional metrics of influence. Moreover, measuring impact beyond citation metrics is an increasing focus, with social media representing newer ways of establishing performance and impact. Conclusions. Even though a number of measures exist, no single bibliometric measure is perfect. Therefore, multiple approaches to evaluation are recommended. However, bibliometric approaches should not be the only measures upon which academic and scholarly performance are evaluated. PMID:24550691

Patient-centered Medical Home Capability and Clinical Performance in HRSA-supported Health Centers

PubMed Central

Shi, Leiyu; Lock, Diana C.; Lee, De-Chih; Lebrun-Harris, Lydie A.; Chin, Marshall H.; Chidambaran, Preeta; Nocon, Robert S.; Zhu, Jinsheng; Sripipatana, Alek

2015-01-01

Objectives To evaluate the relationship between Patient-centered Medical Home (PCMH) model adoption in health centers (HCs) and clinical performance measures and to determine if adoption of PCMH characteristics is associated with better clinical performance. Research Design Data came from the Health Resources and Services Administration’s 2009 Uniform Data System and the 2009 Commonwealth Fund National Survey of Federally Qualified Health Centers. Clinical performance measures included 2 process measures (childhood immunization and cervical cancer screening) and 2 outcome measures (hypertension control and diabetes control). Total and subscale PCMH scores were regressed on the clinical performance measures, adjusting for patient, provider, financial, and institutional characteristics. Results The findings showed different directional relationships, with some PCMH domains (care management, test/referral tracking, quality improvement, and external coordination) showing little or no effect on outcome measures of interest, 1 domain (access/communication) associated with improved outcomes, and 1 domain (patient tracking/registry) associated with worse outcomes. Conclusions This study is among the first to examine the association between PCMH transformation and clinical performance in HCs, providing an understanding of the impact of PCMH adoption within safety-net settings. The mixed results highlight the importance of examining relationships between specific PCMH domains and specific clinical quality measures, in addition to analyzing overall PCMH scores which could yield distorted findings. PMID:25793267

Correlates of impaired function in older women.

PubMed

Ensrud, K E; Nevitt, M C; Yunis, C; Cauley, J A; Seeley, D G; Fox, K M; Cummings, S R

1994-05-01

To determine the factors associated with impaired function in older women. Cross-sectional analysis of baseline data collected for a multicenter, prospective study of risk factors for osteoporotic fractures. Four clinical centers in Portland, Oregon, Minneapolis, Minnesota, Baltimore, Maryland, and the Monongahela Valley, Pennsylvania. A total of 9,704 ambulatory, non-black women, aged 65 years and older, recruited from population-based listings. Independent variables, including demographic and historical information (medical conditions, health habits, and medications) and physiologic measures (anthropometry, blood pressure, mental status, vision, and neuromuscular performance) were obtained from a baseline questionnaire, interview, and examination. Measurement of function was assessed by self-reported ability to perform six physical and instrumental activities of daily living (ADL) and impaired function (dependent variable) was defined as difficulty performing three or more physical and instrumental ADLs. In order of decreasing strength of association, hip fracture, osteoarthritis, parkinsonism, slower walking speed, lower hip abduction force, back pain, greater Quetelet index, osteoporosis, former alcohol use, stroke, never drinking alcohol, lower mental status, use of anxiolytics and/or sleeping medications, inability to hold the tandem position, postural dizziness, cataracts, greater waist to hip ratio, lower physical activity in the past year, greater lifetime cigarette consumption, and lower grip strength were independently associated with impaired function in multivariate analyses. Age, low educational level, diabetes, current heavy alcohol use, postural hypotension, depth perception, and contrast sensitivity were not independent predictors. A combination of neuromuscular performance measures, including decreased muscle strength and impaired balance and gait, appeared to account for the effect of age on disability. A combination of many factors, including medical conditions, health habits such as obesity, smoking, alcohol abstinence, and physical inactivity, and direct measures of neuromuscular performance are associated with impaired function in older women.

Opcode counting for performance measurement

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

Gara, Alan; Satterfield, David L.; Walkup, Robert E.

Methods, systems and computer program products are disclosed for measuring a performance of a program running on a processing unit of a processing system. In one embodiment, the method comprises informing a logic unit of each instruction in the program that is executed by the processing unit, assigning a weight to each instruction, assigning the instructions to a plurality of groups, and analyzing the plurality of groups to measure one or more metrics. In one embodiment, each instruction includes an operating code portion, and the assigning includes assigning the instructions to the groups based on the operating code portions ofmore » the instructions. In an embodiment, each type of instruction is assigned to a respective one of the plurality of groups. These groups may be combined into a plurality of sets of the groups.« less

Opcode counting for performance measurement

DOEpatents

Gara, Alan; Satterfield, David L; Walkup, Robert E

2013-10-29

Methods, systems and computer program products are disclosed for measuring a performance of a program running on a processing unit of a processing system. In one embodiment, the method comprises informing a logic unit of each instruction in the program that is executed by the processing unit, assigning a weight to each instruction, assigning the instructions to a plurality of groups, and analyzing the plurality of groups to measure one or more metrics. In one embodiment, each instruction includes an operating code portion, and the assigning includes assigning the instructions to the groups based on the operating code portions of the instructions. In an embodiment, each type of instruction is assigned to a respective one of the plurality of groups. These groups may be combined into a plurality of sets of the groups.

Opcode counting for performance measurement

DOEpatents

Gara, Alan; Satterfield, David L.; Walkup, Robert E.

2015-08-11

Methods, systems and computer program products are disclosed for measuring a performance of a program running on a processing unit of a processing system. In one embodiment, the method comprises informing a logic unit of each instruction in the program that is executed by the processing unit, assigning a weight to each instruction, assigning the instructions to a plurality of groups, and analyzing the plurality of groups to measure one or more metrics. In one embodiment, each instruction includes an operating code portion, and the assigning includes assigning the instructions to the groups based on the operating code portions of the instructions. In an embodiment, each type of instruction is assigned to a respective one of the plurality of groups. These groups may be combined into a plurality of sets of the groups.

Opcode counting for performance measurement

DOEpatents

Gara, Alan; Satterfield, David L.; Walkup, Robert E.

2016-10-18

Methods, systems and computer program products are disclosed for measuring a performance of a program running on a processing unit of a processing system. In one embodiment, the method comprises informing a logic unit of each instruction in the program that is executed by the processing unit, assigning a weight to each instruction, assigning the instructions to a plurality of groups, and analyzing the plurality of groups to measure one or more metrics. In one embodiment, each instruction includes an operating code portion, and the assigning includes assigning the instructions to the groups based on the operating code portions of the instructions. In an embodiment, each type of instruction is assigned to a respective one of the plurality of groups. These groups may be combined into a plurality of sets of the groups.

Ankle proprioceptive acuity is associated with objective as well as self-report measures of balance, mobility, and physical function.

PubMed

Deshpande, Nandini; Simonsick, Eleanor; Metter, E Jeffrey; Ko, Seunguk; Ferrucci, Luigi; Studenski, Stephanie

2016-06-01

Ankle proprioceptive information is integrated by the central nervous system to generate and modulate muscle contractions for maintaining standing balance. This study evaluated the association of ankle joint proprioception with objective and self-report measures of balance, mobility, and physical function across the adult life span. Seven hundred and ninety participants (age range 24-97 years, 362 women) who completed ankle proprioception assessment between 2010 and 2014 were included in the present study from the population-based cohort of the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (BLSA), USA. Outcome measures included ankle joint proprioception measured as threshold for perception of passive movement (TPPM); single leg stance time; perceived difficulty for standing balance; usual, fastest, and narrow-path gait speed; walking index; short physical performance battery score; and self-reported activity restriction due to fear of falling. Descriptive variables included age, sex, body mass index, education, strength, and cognition. Analyses of covariance (ANCOVA) in general linear model (GLM) or multinomial logistic regression analyses were performed, as appropriate, to test the hypothesis that balance, mobility, and physical function were significantly different according to TPPM quintiles even after adjusting for relevant covariates. Those with TPPM >2.2° consistently demonstrated poor balance, mobility, and physical function. However, with increase in challenge (single leg stance, fastest walking speed, and SPPB), TPPM >1.4° was associated with significantly worse performance. In conclusion, ankle proprioceptive acuity has an overall graded relationship with objective and self-report measures of balance, mobility, and physical function. However, the cutoff proprioceptive acuity associated with substantial decline or inability to perform could depend on the challenge induced.

Performance evaluation of an agent-based occupancy simulation model

DOE PAGES

Luo, Xuan; Lam, Khee Poh; Chen, Yixing; ...

2017-01-17

Occupancy is an important factor driving building performance. Static and homogeneous occupant schedules, commonly used in building performance simulation, contribute to issues such as performance gaps between simulated and measured energy use in buildings. Stochastic occupancy models have been recently developed and applied to better represent spatial and temporal diversity of occupants in buildings. However, there is very limited evaluation of the usability and accuracy of these models. This study used measured occupancy data from a real office building to evaluate the performance of an agent-based occupancy simulation model: the Occupancy Simulator. The occupancy patterns of various occupant types weremore » first derived from the measured occupant schedule data using statistical analysis. Then the performance of the simulation model was evaluated and verified based on (1) whether the distribution of observed occupancy behavior patterns follows the theoretical ones included in the Occupancy Simulator, and (2) whether the simulator can reproduce a variety of occupancy patterns accurately. Results demonstrated the feasibility of applying the Occupancy Simulator to simulate a range of occupancy presence and movement behaviors for regular types of occupants in office buildings, and to generate stochastic occupant schedules at the room and individual occupant levels for building performance simulation. For future work, model validation is recommended, which includes collecting and using detailed interval occupancy data of all spaces in an office building to validate the simulated occupant schedules from the Occupancy Simulator.« less

Performance evaluation of an agent-based occupancy simulation model

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

Luo, Xuan; Lam, Khee Poh; Chen, Yixing

Occupancy is an important factor driving building performance. Static and homogeneous occupant schedules, commonly used in building performance simulation, contribute to issues such as performance gaps between simulated and measured energy use in buildings. Stochastic occupancy models have been recently developed and applied to better represent spatial and temporal diversity of occupants in buildings. However, there is very limited evaluation of the usability and accuracy of these models. This study used measured occupancy data from a real office building to evaluate the performance of an agent-based occupancy simulation model: the Occupancy Simulator. The occupancy patterns of various occupant types weremore » first derived from the measured occupant schedule data using statistical analysis. Then the performance of the simulation model was evaluated and verified based on (1) whether the distribution of observed occupancy behavior patterns follows the theoretical ones included in the Occupancy Simulator, and (2) whether the simulator can reproduce a variety of occupancy patterns accurately. Results demonstrated the feasibility of applying the Occupancy Simulator to simulate a range of occupancy presence and movement behaviors for regular types of occupants in office buildings, and to generate stochastic occupant schedules at the room and individual occupant levels for building performance simulation. For future work, model validation is recommended, which includes collecting and using detailed interval occupancy data of all spaces in an office building to validate the simulated occupant schedules from the Occupancy Simulator.« less

Teamwork Assessment Tools in Obstetric Emergencies: A Systematic Review.

PubMed

Onwochei, Desire N; Halpern, Stephen; Balki, Mrinalini

2017-06-01

Team-based training and simulation can improve patient safety, by improving communication, decision making, and performance of team members. Currently, there is no general consensus on whether or not a specific assessment tool is better adapted to evaluate teamwork in obstetric emergencies. The purpose of this qualitative systematic review was to find the tools available to assess team effectiveness in obstetric emergencies. We searched Embase, Medline, PubMed, Web of Science, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Google Scholar for prospective studies that evaluated nontechnical skills in multidisciplinary teams involving obstetric emergencies. The search included studies from 1944 until January 11, 2016. Data on reliability and validity measures were collected and used for interpretation. A descriptive analysis was performed on the data. Thirteen studies were included in the final qualitative synthesis. All the studies assessed teams in the context of obstetric simulation scenarios, but only six included anesthetists in the simulations. One study evaluated their teamwork tool using just validity measures, five using just reliability measures, and one used both. The most reliable tools identified were the Clinical Teamwork Scale, the Global Assessment of Obstetric Team Performance, and the Global Rating Scale of performance. However, they were still lacking in terms of quality and validity. More work needs to be conducted to establish the validity of teamwork tools for nontechnical skills, and the development of an ideal tool is warranted. Further studies are required to assess how outcomes, such as performance and patient safety, are influenced when using these tools.

Acute care hospitals' accountability to provincial funders.

PubMed

Kromm, Seija K; Ross Baker, G; Wodchis, Walter P; Deber, Raisa B

2014-09-01

Ontario's acute care hospitals are subject to a number of tools, including legislation and performance measurement for fiscal accountability and accountability for quality. Examination of accountability documents used in Ontario at the government, regional and acute care hospital levels reveals three trends: (a) the number of performance measures being used in the acute care hospital sector has increased significantly; (b) the focus of the health system has expanded from accountability for funding and service volumes to include accountability for quality and patient safety; and (c) the accountability requirements are misaligned at the different levels. These trends may affect the success of the accountability approach currently being used. Copyright © 2014 Longwoods Publishing.

Individual differences in drug abuse vulnerability: d-amphetamine and sensation-seeking status.

PubMed

Kelly, Thomas H; Robbins, Glenn; Martin, Catherine A; Fillmore, Mark T; Lane, Scott D; Harrington, Nancy G; Rush, Craig R

2006-11-01

While the personality dimensions of novelty seeking and sensation seeking are associated with drug abuse vulnerability, the mechanisms associated with this vulnerability remain obscure. This study examined the behavioral effects of d-amphetamine in healthy volunteers scoring in the upper and lower quartiles based on age- and gender-adjusted population norms on the impulsive Sensation-Seeking Scale (SSS) of the Zuckerman-Kuhlman personality questionnaire (ZKPQ). Participants completed 7-day outpatient studies examining the subjective, performance, and cardiovascular effects of d-amphetamine (0, 7.5, and 15 mg/70 kg, p.o.) under double-blind conditions according to a randomized block design. Performance tasks included behavioral measures of impulsivity, including attention, inhibition, and risk-taking behavior. No differences in baseline performance or d-amphetamine effects on measures of attention, inhibition, and risk-taking behavior were observed. High impulsive sensation seekers reported greater increases on several subjective report measures associated with drug abuse potential, including visual analog scales feel drug, like drug, and high. Healthy adults scoring in the top quartile on the population of the impulsive SSS of the ZKPQ may be vulnerable to the abuse potential of d-amphetamine.

Measuring nursing competencies in the operating theatre: instrument development and psychometric analysis using Item Response Theory.

PubMed

Nicholson, Patricia; Griffin, Patrick; Gillis, Shelley; Wu, Margaret; Dunning, Trisha

2013-09-01

Concern about the process of identifying underlying competencies that contribute to effective nursing performance has been debated with a lack of consensus surrounding an approved measurement instrument for assessing clinical performance. Although a number of methodologies are noted in the development of competency-based assessment measures, these studies are not without criticism. The primary aim of the study was to develop and validate a Performance Based Scoring Rubric, which included both analytical and holistic scales. The aim included examining the validity and reliability of the rubric, which was designed to measure clinical competencies in the operating theatre. The fieldwork observations of 32 nurse educators and preceptors assessing the performance of 95 instrument nurses in the operating theatre were used in the calibration of the rubric. The Rasch model, a particular model among Item Response Models, was used in the calibration of each item in the rubric in an attempt at improving the measurement properties of the scale. This is done by establishing the 'fit' of the data to the conditions demanded by the Rasch model. Acceptable reliability estimates, specifically a high Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficient (0.940), as well as empirical support for construct and criterion validity for the rubric were achieved. Calibration of the Performance Based Scoring Rubric using Rasch model revealed that the fit statistics for most items were acceptable. The use of the Rasch model offers a number of features in developing and refining healthcare competency-based assessments, improving confidence in measuring clinical performance. The Rasch model was shown to be useful in developing and validating a competency-based assessment for measuring the competence of the instrument nurse in the operating theatre with implications for use in other areas of nursing practice. Crown Copyright © 2012. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The effects of Crew Resource Mangement (CRM) training in airline maintenance: Results following three years' experience

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Taylor, J. C.; Robertson, M. M.

1995-01-01

This report describes three years' evaluation of the effects of one airline's Crew Resources Management (CRM) training operation for maintenance. This evaluation focuses on the post-training attitudes of maintenance managers' and technical support professionals, their reported behaviors, and the safety, efficiency and dependable maintenance performance of their units. The results reveal a strong positive effect of the training. The overall program represents the use of CRM training as a long-term commitment to improving performance through effective communication at all levels in airline maintenance operations. The initial findings described in our previous progress reports are reinforced and elaborated here. The current results benefit from the entire pre-post training survey, which now represents total attendance of all managers and staff professionals. Additionally there are now full results from the two-month, six-month, and 12-month follow-up questionnaires, together with as many as 33 months of post-training performance data, using several indicators. In this present report, we examine participants' attitudes, their reported behaviors following the training, the performance of their work units, and the relationships among these variables. Attitudes include those measured immediately before and after the training as well as participants' attitudes months after their training. Performance includes measures, by work units, of on-time flight departures, on-schedule maintenance releases, occupational and aircraft safety, and efficient labor costs. We report changes in these performance measures following training, as well their relationships with the training participants' attitudes. Highlights of results from this training program include increased safety and improved costs associated with positive attitudes about the use of more assertive communication, and the improved management of stress. Improved on-time performance is also related to those improved attitudes, as well as favorable attitudes about participative management.

College Algebra I.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Benjamin, Carl; And Others

Presented are student performance objectives, a student progress chart, and assignment sheets with objective and diagnostic measures for the stated performance objectives in College Algebra I. Topics covered include: sets; vocabulary; linear equations; inequalities; real numbers; operations; factoring; fractions; formulas; ratio, proportion, and…

Motor carrier safety performance profile.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2004-02-01

This report provides a summary of the safety performance of carriers across all the individual segments in the industry. It includes summaries for both for-hire and private carriers in each segment and is drawn from measures that are collected as par...

Keeping Score for Organizational Performance.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Prewitt, Vana

2001-01-01

Discussion of the balanced scorecard (BSC) as a performance management tool focuses on common mistakes and problems with implementing it. Topics include the need for intraorganizational communication and collaboration; strategic thinking; organizational goals; purposes of measurements; individual accountability; and setting priorities. (LRW)

Procedures for Constructing and Using Criterion-Referenced Performance Tests.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Campbell, Clifton P.; Allender, Bill R.

1988-01-01

Criterion-referenced performance tests (CRPT) provide a realistic method for objectively measuring task proficiency against predetermined attainment standards. This article explains the procedures of constructing, validating, and scoring CRPTs and includes a checklist for a welding test. (JOW)

What's Measured Is Not Necessarily What Matters: A Cautionary Story from Public Health

PubMed Central

Schwartz, Robert

2016-01-01

A systematic review of the introduction and use of outcome-based performance management systems for public health organizations found differences between their use as a management system (which requires rigorous definition and measurement to allow comparison across organizational units) versus for improvement (which may require more flexibility). What is included in performance measurement/management systems is influenced by ease of measurement, data quality, ability of organization to control outcomes, ability to measure success in terms of doing things (rather than preventing things) and what is already happening. To the extent that most providers wish to do a good job, the availability of good data to enable benchmarking and improvement is an important step forward. However, to the extent that the health of a population is dependent on multiple factors, many beyond the mandate of the health system, too extensive a reliance on performance measurement may risk unintended consequences of marginalizing critical activities. PMID:28032824

Introducing a Short Measure of Shared Servant Leadership Impacting Team Performance through Team Behavioral Integration

PubMed Central

Sousa, Milton; Van Dierendonck, Dirk

2016-01-01

The research reported in this paper was designed to study the influence of shared servant leadership on team performance through the mediating effect of team behavioral integration, while validating a new short measure of shared servant leadership. A round-robin approach was used to collect data in two similar studies. Study 1 included 244 undergraduate students in 61 teams following an intense HRM business simulation of 2 weeks. The following year, study 2 included 288 students in 72 teams involved in the same simulation. The most important findings were that (1) shared servant leadership was a strong determinant of team behavioral integration, (2) information exchange worked as the main mediating process between shared servant leadership and team performance, and (3) the essence of servant leadership can be captured on the key dimensions of empowerment, humility, stewardship and accountability, allowing for a new promising shortened four-dimensional measure of shared servant leadership. PMID:26779104

Evaluation of strength and conditioning measures with game success in Division I collegiate volleyball: A retrospective study.

PubMed

Bunn, Jennifer A; Ryan, Greg A; Button, Gabriel R; Zhang, S

2017-08-04

The purpose of this study was to retrospectively assess relationships between strength and conditioning (SC) measures and game performance in Division I volleyball. Five years of SC and game data were collected from one women's Division I collegiate team, n = 76. SC measures included: T-drill, 18.3 m sprint, back squat, hang clean, vertical jump, and broad jump. All game and SC stats were normalized to Z-scores. Analyses included assessing SC differences by position, and multiple stepwise regression to assess relationships between game and SC stats. There was a significant difference by position for broad jump (p =.002), 18.3 m sprint (p =.036), vertical (p <.001), and total strength (p =.019). Overall, game performance and SC measures were significantly correlated (r = .439, p <.001). Multiple regression analyses indicated significant relationships (p < .05) between SC measures and game success by position as follows: defensive specialist stats with squat and total strength; setters game stats with hang cleans, T-drill, and broad jump; pin hitter game stats with vertical, squat, and total strength; middle blockers game stats with broad jump. These data indicate that SC measures correlate well with game performance and are specific by position. These data could help SC coaches create a more precise training approach to focus on improving specific measures by position, which could then translate to improved game performance. These data could also help coaches with talent identification to determine playing time and rotations to maximize player ability and achieve success.

INTEGRATED PROTECTIVE FABRIC SYSTEM (IPFS) PHASE III PROGRAM: AEROSOL PROTECTION REPORT

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-08-16

one layer control. It was observed that aerosol swatch measurements showed no correlation to aerosol system test performance for the materials and...the BRHA model employed. It was observed that aerosol swatch measurements showed no correlation to aerosol system test performance for the...Testing” (McVeety et al., 2015). This report includes a description of the materials and material controls, a description of the IPFS configurations

Future Performance Trend Indicators: A Current Value Approach to Human Resources Accounting. Report II: Internal Consistencies and Relationships to Performance in Organization VI. Technical Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pecorella, Patricia A.; Bowers, David G.

Conventional accounting systems provide no indication as to what conditions and events lead to reported outcomes, since they traditionally do not include measurements of the human organization and its relationship to events at the outcome stage. Human resources accounting is used to measure these additional types of data. This research is…

Initial performances of first undulator-based hard x-ray beamlines of NSLS-II compared to simulations

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

Chubar, Oleg, E-mail: chubar@bnl.gov; Chu, Yong S.; Huang, Xiaojing

2016-07-27

Commissioning of the first X-ray beamlines of NSLS-II included detailed measurements of spectral and spatial distributions of the radiation at different locations of the beamlines, from front-ends to sample positions. Comparison of some of these measurement results with high-accuracy calculations of synchrotron (undulator) emission and wavefront propagation through X-ray transport optics, performed using SRW code, is presented.

Quality measurement and improvement in liver transplantation.

PubMed

Mathur, Amit K; Talwalkar, Jayant

2018-06-01

There is growing interest in the quality of health care delivery in liver transplantation. Multiple stakeholders, including patients, transplant providers and their hospitals, payers, and regulatory bodies have an interest in measuring and monitoring quality in the liver transplant process, and understanding differences in quality across centres. This article aims to provide an overview of quality measurement and regulatory issues in liver transplantation performed within the United States. We review how broader definitions of health care quality should be applied to liver transplant care models. We outline the status quo including the current regulatory agencies, public reporting mechanisms, and requirements around quality assurance and performance improvement (QAPI) activities. Additionally, we further discuss unintended consequences and opportunities for growth in quality measurement. Quality measurement and the integration of quality improvement strategies into liver transplant programmes hold significant promise, but multiple challenges to successful implementation must be addressed to optimise value. Copyright © 2018 European Association for the Study of the Liver. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Use of model calibration to achieve high accuracy in analysis of computer networks

DOEpatents

Frogner, Bjorn; Guarro, Sergio; Scharf, Guy

2004-05-11

A system and method are provided for creating a network performance prediction model, and calibrating the prediction model, through application of network load statistical analyses. The method includes characterizing the measured load on the network, which may include background load data obtained over time, and may further include directed load data representative of a transaction-level event. Probabilistic representations of load data are derived to characterize the statistical persistence of the network performance variability and to determine delays throughout the network. The probabilistic representations are applied to the network performance prediction model to adapt the model for accurate prediction of network performance. Certain embodiments of the method and system may be used for analysis of the performance of a distributed application characterized as data packet streams.

Overall ED efficiency is associated with decreased time to percutaneous coronary intervention for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.

PubMed

Jones, Christopher W; Sonnad, Seema S; Augustine, James J; Reese, Charles L

2014-10-01

Performance of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) within 90 minutes of hospital arrival for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction patients is a commonly cited clinical quality measure. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services use this measure to adjust hospital reimbursement via the Value-Based Purchasing Program. This study investigated the relationship between hospital performance on this quality measure and emergency department (ED) operational efficiency. Hospital-level data from Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services on PCI quality measure performance was linked to information on operational performance from 272 US EDs obtained from the Emergency Department Benchmarking Alliance annual operations survey. Standard metrics of ED size, acuity, and efficiency were compared across hospitals grouped by performance on the door-to-balloon time quality measure. Mean hospital performance on the 90-minute arrival to PCI measure was 94.0% (range, 42-100). Among hospitals failing to achieve the door-to-balloon time performance standard, median ED length of stay was 209 minutes, compared with 173 minutes among those hospitals meeting the benchmark standard (P < .001). Similarly, median time from ED patient arrival to physician evaluation was 39 minutes for hospitals below the performance standard and 23 minutes for hospitals at the benchmark standard (P < .001). Markers of ED size and acuity, including annual patient volume, admission rate, and the percentage of patients arriving via ambulance did not vary with door-to-balloon time. Better performance on measures associated with ED efficiency is associated with more timely PCI performance. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Describing the performance of U.S. hospitals by applying big data analytics.

PubMed

Downing, Nicholas S; Cloninger, Alexander; Venkatesh, Arjun K; Hsieh, Angela; Drye, Elizabeth E; Coifman, Ronald R; Krumholz, Harlan M

2017-01-01

Public reporting of measures of hospital performance is an important component of quality improvement efforts in many countries. However, it can be challenging to provide an overall characterization of hospital performance because there are many measures of quality. In the United States, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services reports over 100 measures that describe various domains of hospital quality, such as outcomes, the patient experience and whether established processes of care are followed. Although individual quality measures provide important insight, it is challenging to understand hospital performance as characterized by multiple quality measures. Accordingly, we developed a novel approach for characterizing hospital performance that highlights the similarities and differences between hospitals and identifies common patterns of hospital performance. Specifically, we built a semi-supervised machine learning algorithm and applied it to the publicly-available quality measures for 1,614 U.S. hospitals to graphically and quantitatively characterize hospital performance. In the resulting visualization, the varying density of hospitals demonstrates that there are key clusters of hospitals that share specific performance profiles, while there are other performance profiles that are rare. Several popular hospital rating systems aggregate some of the quality measures included in our study to produce a composite score; however, hospitals that were top-ranked by such systems were scattered across our visualization, indicating that these top-ranked hospitals actually excel in many different ways. Our application of a novel graph analytics method to data describing U.S. hospitals revealed nuanced differences in performance that are obscured in existing hospital rating systems.

Is stair climb power a clinically relevant measure of leg power impairments in at-risk older adults?

PubMed

Bean, Jonathan F; Kiely, Dan K; LaRose, Sharon; Alian, Joda; Frontera, Walter R

2007-05-01

To test the clinical relevance of the stair climb power test (SCPT) as a measure of leg power impairments in mobility-limited older adults. Cross-sectional analysis of baseline data from participants within a randomized controlled trial. Rehabilitation research gym. Community-dwelling older adults (N=138; mean age, 75.4 y) with mobility limitations as defined by the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). Not applicable. Leg power measures included the SCPT and double leg press power measured at 40% (DLP40) and 70% (DLP70) of the 1 repetition maximum. Mobility performance tests included the SPPB and its 3 components: gait speed, chair stand time, and standing balance. Stair climb power per kilogram (SCP/kg) had correlations of moderate strength (r=.47, r=.52) with DLP40/kg and DLP70/kg, respectively. All 3 leg power measures correlated with each of the mobility performance measures with the exception of DLP40/kg (r=.11, P=.27) and DLP70/kg (r=.11, P=.18) with standing balance. Magnitudes of association, as described by the Pearson correlation coefficient, did not differ substantively among the separate power measures as they related to SPPB performance overall. Separate adjusted multivariate models evaluating the relationship between leg power and SPPB performance were all statistically significant and described equivalent amounts of the total variance (R(2)) in SPPB performance (SCP/kg, R(2)=.30; DLP40, R(2)=.32; DLP70, R(2)=.31). Analyses of the components of the SPPB show that the SCPT had stronger associations than the other leg power impairment measures with models predicting chair stand (SCP/kg, R(2)=.25; DLP40, R(2)=.12; DLP70, R(2)=.13), whereas both types of leg press power testing had stronger associations with models predicting gait speed (SCP/kg, R(2)=.16; DLP40, R(2)=.34; DLP70, R(2)=.34). Stair climb power was the only power measure that was a significant component of models predicting standing balance (SCP/kg R(2)=.20). The SCPT is a clinically relevant measure of leg power impairments. It is associated with more complex modes of testing leg power impairments and is meaningfully associated with mobility performance, making it suitable for clinical settings in which impairment-mobility relationships are of interest.

Measuring executive function in Indian mothers and their 4-year-old daughters.

PubMed

von Suchodoletz, Antje; Slot, Pauline L; Shroff, Delshad M

2017-03-01

Executive function (EF), including cognitive flexibility, attention shifting, and inhibitory control, has been linked to a range of outcomes across the lifespan, such as school readiness and academic functioning, job performance, health, and social-emotional well-being. Yet, research investigating links between parent EF and child EF is still limited. This is partly due to challenges in measuring the same EF abilities in parents and their children. The current study investigated the applicability of a computer-based battery of various EF tasks for use with both mothers and children. The battery included the following EF tasks: Dimensional Change Card Sort, Hearts and Flowers, and Fish Flanker. Participants were 80 Indian mothers and their 4-year-old daughters. EF was measured with regard to accuracy scores, response time, and inverse efficiency (IE) scores of the most complex blocks of each task. Scoring patterns indicated that children's task performance appeared to be determined by their ability to recognize the cue indicating which task to perform at any given trial and to inhibit an incorrect response. In contrast, mothers' performance appeared to be determined by response time, that is, their ability to be quick in giving the correct response. However, for both children and mothers, IE scores best captured individual differences in EF performance between participants. Furthermore, confirmatory factor analyses found that, for both children and mothers, all EF measures loaded on a latent factor, suggesting that the measures shared common variance in EF. There appeared to be no significant association between mothers' and children's EF scores, controlling for several background variables. Directions for further research include examining the applicability of the EF task battery to reliably describe developmental trajectories of EF abilities over time, and further examining variability in the parent-child EF association across the lifespan. © 2017 The Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences and John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.

Sensitivity of monthly heart rate and psychometric measures for monitoring physical performance in highly trained young handball players.

PubMed

Buchheit, M

2015-05-01

The aim of the present study was to examine whether monthly resting heart rate (HR), HR variability (HRV) and psychometric measures can be used to monitor changes in physical performance in highly-trained adolescent handball players. Data were collected in 37 adolescent players (training 10±2.1 h.wk(-1)) on 11 occasions from September to May during the in-season period, and included an estimation of training status (resting HR and HRV, the profile of mood state (POMS) questionnaire), and 3 physical performance tests (a 10-m sprint, a counter movement jump and a graded aerobic intermittent test, 30-15 Intermittent Fitness Test). The sensitivity of HR and psychometric measures to changes in physical performance was poor (< 20%), irrespective of the training status markers and the performance measures. The specificity was however strong (> 75%), irrespective of the markers and the performance measures. Finally, the difference in physical performance between players with better vs. worse estimated training status were all almost certainly trivial. The present results highlight the limitation of monthly measures of resting HR, HRV and perceived mood and fatigue for predicting in-season changes in physical performance in highly-trained adolescent handball players. This suggests that more frequent monitoring might be required, and/or that other markers might need to be considered. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Dorso-Lateral Prefrontal Cortex MRI Measurements and Cognitive Performance in Autism

PubMed Central

Griebling, Jessica; Minshew, Nancy J.; Bodner, Kimberly; Libove, Robin; Bansal, Rahul; Konasale, Prasad; Keshavan, Matcheri S.; Hardan, Antonio

2012-01-01

This study examined the relationships between volumetric measurements of frontal lobe structures and performance on executive function tasks in individuals with autism. MRI scans were obtained from 38 individuals with autism and 40 matched controls between the ages of 8 and 45 years. Executive function was assessed using neuropsychological measures including the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test and Tower of Hanoi. Differences in performance on the neuropsychological tests were found between the two groups. However, no differences in dorsolateral prefrontal cortex volumes were observed between groups. No correlations between volumetric measurements and performance on the neuropsychological tests were found. Findings from this study suggest that executive function deficits observed in autism are related to functional but not anatomical abnormalities of the frontal lobe. The absence of correlations suggests that executive dysfunction is not the result of focal brain alterations but, rather, is the result of a distributed neural network dysfunction. PMID:20097663

Field Performance of Photovoltaic Systems in the Tucson Desert

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Orsburn, Sean; Brooks, Adria; Cormode, Daniel; Greenberg, James; Hardesty, Garrett; Lonij, Vincent; Salhab, Anas; St. Germaine, Tyler; Torres, Gabe; Cronin, Alexander

2011-10-01

At the Tucson Electric Power (TEP) solar test yard, over 20 different grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) systems are being tested. The goal at the TEP solar test yard is to measure and model real-world performance of PV systems and to benchmark new technologies such as holographic concentrators. By studying voltage and current produced by the PV systems as a function of incident irradiance, and module temperature, we can compare our measurements of field-performance (in a harsh desert environment) to manufacturer specifications (determined under laboratory conditions). In order to measure high-voltage and high-current signals, we designed and built reliable, accurate sensors that can handle extreme desert temperatures. We will present several benchmarks of sensors in a controlled environment, including shunt resistors and Hall-effect current sensors, to determine temperature drift and accuracy. Finally we will present preliminary field measurements of PV performance for several different PV technologies.

Evaluation of retinal nerve fiber layer thickness and choroidal thickness in pseudoexfoliative glaucoma and pseudoexfoliative syndrome.

PubMed

Ozge, Gokhan; Koylu, Mehmet Talay; Mumcuoglu, Tarkan; Gundogan, Fatih Cakir; Ozgonul, Cem; Ayyildiz, Onder; Kucukevcilioglu, Murat

2016-05-01

To compare retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (RNFLT) and choroidal thickness (ChT) measurements in eyes with pseudoexfoliative (PEX) glaucoma, PEX syndrome and healthy control eyes. Eighteen patients with PEX glaucoma in one eye and PEX syndrome in the fellow eye were included. The right eyes of thirty-nine age- and sex-matched healthy subjects were included as control group. All participants underwent a detailed biomicroscopic and funduscopic examination. RNFLT and ChT measurements were performed with a commercially available spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). ChT measurements were performed by using enhanced depth imaging (EDI) mode. Patients with PEX underwent diurnal IOP measurements with 4-hour intervals before inclusion in the study. RNFLT results included the average measurement and 6 quadrants (temporal, inferotemporal, inferonasal, nasal, superonasal and supero-temporal). ChT measurements were performed in the subfoveal region and around the fovea (500µm and 1500 µm nasal and temporal to the fovea), as well as around the optic disc (average peripapillary and eight quadrants in the peripapillary region (temporal, inferotemporal, inferior, inferonasal, nasal, superonasal, superior, supero-temporal)). RNFLT in all quadrants and average thickness were significantly lower in PEX glaucoma eyes compared to PEX syndrome eyes and healthy control eyes (p<0.001 for both). RNFLT comparisons between PEX syndrome and healthy control eyes did not show a significant difference (p>0.05) except the inferotemporal quadrant. ChT measurements were similar between groups (p>0.05). Thinning of the RNFL in association with unchanged ChT may mean that the presence of PEX material is a much more significant risk factor than choroidal changes in the progression of PEX syndrome to PEX glaucoma.

Evaluation of Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Measurement Properties of STarT Back Screening Tool: A Systematic Review.

PubMed

Al Zoubi, Fadi M; Eilayyan, Owis; Mayo, Nancy E; Bussières, André E

2017-10-01

The purpose of this systematic review was to investigate the extent to which the STarT Back Screening Tool (SBST) has been evaluated for (1) the quality of translation of evidence for cross-cultural adaptation and (2) the measurement properties in languages other than English. A systematic search of 8 databases, including Medline, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, AMED, Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science, was performed. Electronic databases were searched for the period between 2008 and December 27, 2016. We included studies related to cross-cultural adaptation, including translation and assessment of the measurement properties of SBST. Study selection, translation, methodologic and quality assessments, and data extraction were performed independently by 2 reviewers. Of the 1566 citations retrieved, 17 studies were admissible, representing 11 different SBST versions in 10 languages. The quadratic weighted κ statistics of the 2 reviewers, for the translation, methodologic assessment, and quality assessment were 0.85, 0.76, and 0.83, respectively. For translation, only 2 versions (Belgian-French and Mandarin) fulfilled all requirements. None of the versions had tested all the measurement properties, and when performed, these were found to have been conducted inadequately. With regard to quality assessment, overall, the included versions had a "Poor" total summary score except 2 (Persian and Swiss-German), which were rated as "Fair." Few versions fully met the standard criteria for valid translation, and none of the versions tested all the measurement properties. There is a clear need for more accurate cross-cultural adaptation of SBST and greater attention to the quality of psychometric evaluation of the adapted versions of SBST. At this time, caution is recommended when using SBST in languages other than English. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Determination of Duty Cycle for Energy Storage Systems in a Renewables (Solar) Firming Application

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

Schoenwald, David A.; Ellison, James

2016-04-01

This report supplements the document, “Protocol for Uniformly Measuring and Expressing the Performance of Energy Storage Systems,” issued in a revised version in April 2016, which will include the renewables (solar) firming application for an energy storage system (ESS). This report provides the background and documentation associated with the determination of a duty cycle for an ESS operated in a renewables (solar) firming application for the purpose of measuring and expressing ESS performance in accordance with the ESS performance protocol.

The influence of prefire tree growth and crown condition on postfire mortality of sugar pine following prescribed fire in Sequoia National Park

USGS Publications Warehouse

Nesmith, Jonathan C. B.; Das, Adrian J.; O'Hara, Kevin L.; van Mantgem, Phillip J.

2015-01-01

Tree mortality is a vital component of forest management in the context of prescribed fires; however, few studies have examined the effect of prefire tree health on postfire mortality. This is especially relevant for sugar pine (Pinus lambertiana Douglas), a species experiencing population declines due to a suite of anthropogenic factors. Using data from an old-growth mixed-conifer forest in Sequoia National Park, we evaluated the effects of fire, tree size, prefire radial growth, and crown condition on postfire mortality. Models based only on tree size and measures of fire damage were compared with models that included tree size, fire damage, and prefire tree health (e.g., measures of prefire tree radial growth or crown condition). Immediately following the fire, the inclusion of different metrics of prefire tree health produced variable improvements over the models that included only tree size and measures of fire damage, as models that included measures of crown condition performed better than fire-only models, but models that included measures of prefire radial growth did not perform better. However, 5 years following the fire, sugar pine mortality was best predicted by models that included measures of both fire damage and prefire tree health, specifically, diameter at breast height (DBH, 1.37 m), crown scorch, 30-year mean growth, and the number of sharp declines in growth over a 30-year period. This suggests that factors that influence prefire tree health (e.g., drought, competition, pathogens, etc.) may partially determine postfire mortality, especially when accounting for delayed mortality following fire.

[Hematologic, biochemical, and immunological tests in clinical practice of rheumatoid arthritis].

PubMed

Yukawa, Naoichiro; Mimori, Tsuneyo

2013-07-01

In clinical practice of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), various kinds of laboratory tests are required for diagnosis, assessment of the disease activity, assessment of complications and risk factors before starting therapy, and assessment of adverse effects during the therapy. Anemia, thrombocytosis, and leukocytosis are common in active RA. During RA therapies, liver function tests (including ALT and AST) and renal function tests (including serum creatinine and urinalysis) should be performed. Anti-CCP antibody is an especially useful marker for diagnosis of RA, and the presence of the antibody has been included in ACR/EULAR 2010 RA classification criteria. Reactivation of hepatitis B virus (HBV) after immunosuppressive therapies is a potentially serious complication. HBc and/or HBs antibodies should be measured before starting the therapies even if HBs antigen is negative, and appropriate interventions including measurement of HBV-DNA and starting prophylaxis (entecavir is recommended) should be performed.

Practitioner Gender and Quality of Care in Ambulatory Cardiology Practices: A Report From the National Cardiovascular Data Practice Innovation and Clinical Excellence (PINNACLE) Registry.

PubMed

Gupta, Dipti; Tang, Fengming; Masoudi, Frederick A; Jones, Philip G; Chan, Paul S; Daugherty, Stacie L

Some studies suggest that female practitioners are more likely to provide guideline-concordant care than male practitioners; however, little is known about the role of practitioner gender in cardiology. The aim of the study was to measure the association between practitioner gender and adherence to the cardiovascular performance measures in the American College of Cardiology's ambulatory Practice Innovation and Clinical Excellence Registry. Patients with at least 1 outpatient visit with a unique practitioner were included. Among eligible patients, adherence to 7 guideline-supported performance measures for coronary artery disease, heart failure, and atrial fibrillation over 12 months after registry entry was compared by practitioner gender using hierarchical models adjusting for practitioner type (physicians vs advance practice practitioners) and number of visits. The study cohort included 1493 individual practitioners who saw 769 139 patients; 80% of practitioners were men. Male practitioners were more often physicians compared with female practitioners (98.2% vs 43.7%, P < .01). Accounting for practitioner category and visit frequency, guideline adherence rates were similar by practitioner gender for all measures with the exception of marginally higher rates for coronary artery disease performance measures for male practitioners compared with female practitioners (antiplatelet: rate ratio [RR] = 1.06; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.03-1.09; β-blockers: RR = 1.06; 95% CI, 1.01-1.10; and lipid-lowering drug: RR = 1.07; 95% CI, 1.04-1.10) and atrial fibrillation (oral anticoagulants: RR = 1.05; 95% CI, 1.01-1.09). Male practitioners marginally outperformed their female counterparts in ambulatory practices enrolled in a voluntary cardiovascular performance improvement registry program. Overall low adherence to some performance measures suggests room for improvement among all practitioners.

Uncooled infrared photon detector and multicolor infrared detection using microoptomechanical sensors

DOEpatents

Datskos, Panagiotis G.; Rajic, Solobodan; Datskou, Irene C.

1999-01-01

Systems and methods for infrared detection are described. An optomechanical photon detector includes a semiconductor material and is based on measurement of a photoinduced lattice strain. A multicolor infrared sensor includes a stack of frequency specific optomechanical detectors. The stack can include one, or more, of the optomechanical photon detectors that function based on the measurement of photoinduced lattice strain. The systems and methods provide advantages in that rapid, sensitive multicolor infrared imaging can be performed without the need for a cooling subsystem.

Longitudinal Trend Analysis of Performance Indicators for South Carolina's Technical Colleges

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hossain, Mohammad Nurul

2010-01-01

This study included an analysis of the trend of performance indicators for the technical college sector of higher education in South Carolina. In response to demands for accountability and transparency in higher education, the state of South Carolina developed sector specific performance indicators to measure various educational outcomes for each…

Comparison of Static and Dynamic Assessment Procedures and Their Relation to Independent Performance.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Day, Jeanne D.; And Others

1997-01-01

Relationships between pretraining skills, learning, and posttest performance were studied in spatial and verbal tasks for 84 preschool children. The measurement model that fit the data best maintained separate verbal and spatial domains. The best structural model included paths from pretest and learning assessments to posttest performance within…

Impact of Intended and Unintended Outcomes of Performance-Based Funding on Community Colleges

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smith, Charanne P.

2015-01-01

Nationally, state and federal legislative bodies are increasingly requiring higher education institutions to demonstrate a solid return on investment. One of the key ways to do this is through performance based funding which links funding received to specific institutional performance measures and outcomes including graduation, and/or completion…

A suite of phantom-based test methods for assessing image quality of photoacoustic tomography systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vogt, William C.; Jia, Congxian; Wear, Keith A.; Garra, Brian S.; Pfefer, T. Joshua

2017-03-01

As Photoacoustic Tomography (PAT) matures and undergoes clinical translation, objective performance test methods are needed to facilitate device development, regulatory clearance and clinical quality assurance. For mature medical imaging modalities such as CT, MRI, and ultrasound, tissue-mimicking phantoms are frequently incorporated into consensus standards for performance testing. A well-validated set of phantom-based test methods is needed for evaluating performance characteristics of PAT systems. To this end, we have constructed phantoms using a custom tissue-mimicking material based on PVC plastisol with tunable, biologically-relevant optical and acoustic properties. Each phantom is designed to enable quantitative assessment of one or more image quality characteristics including 3D spatial resolution, spatial measurement accuracy, ultrasound/PAT co-registration, uniformity, penetration depth, geometric distortion, sensitivity, and linearity. Phantoms contained targets including high-intensity point source targets and dye-filled tubes. This suite of phantoms was used to measure the dependence of performance of a custom PAT system (equipped with four interchangeable linear array transducers of varying design) on design parameters (e.g., center frequency, bandwidth, element geometry). Phantoms also allowed comparison of image artifacts, including surface-generated clutter and bandlimited sensing artifacts. Results showed that transducer design parameters create strong variations in performance including a trade-off between resolution and penetration depth, which could be quantified with our method. This study demonstrates the utility of phantom-based image quality testing in device performance assessment, which may guide development of consensus standards for PAT systems.

A systematic literature search to identify performance measure outcomes used in clinical studies of racehorses.

PubMed

Wylie, C E; Newton, J R

2018-05-01

Racing performance is often used as a measurable outcome variable in research studies investigating clinical diagnoses or interventions. However, the use of many different performance measures largely precludes conduct of meaningful comparative studies and, to date, those being used have not been collated. To systematically review the veterinary scientific literature for the use of racing performance as a measurable outcome variable in clinical studies of racehorses, collate and identify those most popular, and identify their advantages and disadvantages. Systematic literature search. The search criteria "((racing AND performance) AND (horses OR equidae))" were adapted for both MEDLINE and CAB Abstracts databases. Data were collected in standardised recording forms for binary, categorical and quantitative measures, and the use of performance indices. In total, 217 studies that described racing performance were identified, contributing 117 different performance measures. No one performance measure was used in all studies, despite 90.3% using more than one variable. Data regarding race starts and earnings were used most commonly, with 88.0% and 54.4% of studies including at least one measure of starts and earnings, respectively. Seventeen variables were used 10 times or more, with the top five comprising: 'return to racing', 'number of starts', 'days to first start', 'earnings per period of time' and 'earnings per start'. The search strategies may not have identified all relevant papers, introducing bias to the review. Performance indices have been developed to improve assessment of interventions; however, they are not widely adopted in the scientific literature. Use of the two most commonly identified measures, whether the horse returned to racing and number of starts over a defined period of time, would best facilitate future systematic reviews and meta-analyses in advance of the development of a gold-standard measure of race performance outcome. © 2017 EVJ Ltd.

Payment Reform

PubMed Central

Schneider, Eric C.; Hussey, Peter S.; Schnyer, Christopher

2011-01-01

Abstract Insurers and purchasers of health care in the United States are on the verge of potentially revolutionary changes in the approaches they use to pay for health care. Recently, purchasers and insurers have been experimenting with payment approaches that include incentives to improve quality and reduce the use of unnecessary and costly services. The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 is likely to accelerate payment reform based on performance measurement. This article provides details of the results of a technical report that catalogues nearly 100 implemented and proposed payment reform programs, classifies each of these programs into one of 11 payment reform models, and identifies the performance measurement needs associated with each model. A synthesis of the results suggests near-term priorities for performance measure development and identifies pertinent challenges related to the use of performance measures as a basis for payment reform. The report is also intended to create a shared framework for analysis of future performance measurement opportunities. This report is intended for the many stakeholders tasked with outlining a national quality strategy in the wake of health care reform legislation. PMID:28083159

Testing the Feasibility of a Low-Cost Network Performance Measurement Infrastructure

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

Chevalier, Scott; Schopf, Jennifer M.; Miller, Kenneth

2016-07-01

Todays science collaborations depend on reliable, high performance networks, but monitoring the end-to-end performance of a network can be costly and difficult. The most accurate approaches involve using measurement equipment in many locations, which can be both expensive and difficult to manage due to immobile or complicated assets. The perfSONAR framework facilitates network measurement making management of the tests more reasonable. Traditional deployments have used over-provisioned servers, which can be expensive to deploy and maintain. As scientific network uses proliferate, there is a desire to instrument more facets of a network to better understand trends. This work explores low costmore » alternatives to assist with network measurement. Benefits include the ability to deploy more resources quickly, and reduced capital and operating expenditures. Finally, we present candidate platforms and a testing scenario that evaluated the relative merits of four types of small form factor equipment to deliver accurate performance measurements.« less

76 FR 9559 - Proposed Information Collection; Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-02-18

..., reporting burden (time and financial resources) is minimized, collection instruments are clearly understood... appropriate data for the Corporation's required performance measurement and other reporting. DATES: Written... proper performance of the functions of the Corporation, including whether the information will have...

Functional Performance Testing and Patient Reported Outcomes following ACL Reconstruction: A Systematic Scoping Review

PubMed Central

Herrington, Lee

2014-01-01

Objective. A systematic scoping review of the literature to identify functional performance tests and patient reported outcomes for patients who undergo anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction and rehabilitation that are used in clinical practice and research during the last decade. Methods. A literature search was conducted. Electronic databases used included Medline, PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, PEDro, and AMED. The inclusion criteria were English language, publication between April 2004 and April 2014, and primary ACL reconstruction with objective and/or subjective outcomes used. Two authors screened the selected papers for title, abstract, and full-text in accordance with predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The methodological quality of all papers was assessed by a checklist of the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP). Results. A total of 16 papers were included with full-text. Different authors used different study designs for functional performance testing which led to different outcomes that could not be compared. All papers used a measurement for quantity of functional performance except one study which used both quantity and quality outcomes. Several functional performance tests and patient reported outcomes were identified in this review. Conclusion. No extensive research has been carried out over the past 10 years to measure the quality of functional performance testing and control stability of patients following ACL reconstruction. However this study found that the measurement of functional performance following ACL reconstruction consisting of a one-leg hop for a set distance or a combination of different hops using limb symmetry index (LSI) was a main outcome parameter of several studies. A more extensive series of tests is suggested to measure both the quantitative and qualitative aspects of functional performance after the ACL reconstruction. The KOOS and the IKDC questionnaires are both measures that are increasingly being used for ACL reconstruction throughout the last decade. PMID:27379330

Is there agreement between worker self and supervisor assessment of worker safety performance? An examination in the construction industry.

PubMed

Xia, Nini; Griffin, Mark A; Wang, Xueqing; Liu, Xing; Wang, Dan

2018-06-01

Individual safety performance (behavior) critically influences safety outcomes in high-risk workplaces. Compared to the study of generic work performance on different measurements, few studies have investigated different measurements of safety performance, typically relying on employees' self-reflection of their safety behavior. This research aims to address this limitation by including worker self-reflection and other (i.e., supervisor) assessment of two worker safety performance dimensions, safety compliance and safety participation. A sample of 105 workers and 17 supervisors in 17 groups in the Chinese construction industry participated in this study. Comparisons were made between worker compliance and participation in each measurement, and between workers' and supervisors' assessment of workers' compliance and participation. Multilevel modeling was adopted to test the moderating effects on the worker self-reflection and supervisor-assessment relationship by group safety climate and the work experience of supervisors. Higher levels of safety compliance than participation were found for self-reflection and supervisor assessment. The discrepancy between the two measurements in each safety performance dimension was significant. The work experience of supervisors attenuated the discrepancy between self- and supervisor-assessment of compliance. Contrary to our expectations, the moderating effect of group safety climate was not supported. The discrepancy between worker self- and supervisor-assessment of worker safety performance, thus, suggests the importance of including alternative measurements of safety performance in addition to self-reflection. Lower levels of participation behavior in both raters suggest more research on the motivators of participatory behavior. Practical applications The discrepancy between different raters can lead to negative reactions of ratees, suggesting that managers should be aware of that difference. Assigning experienced supervisors as raters can be effective at mitigating interrater discrepancy and conflicts in the assessment of compliance behavior. Copyright © 2018 National Safety Council and Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Procurement performance measurement system in the health care industry.

PubMed

Kumar, Arun; Ozdamar, Linet; Ng, Chai Peng

2005-01-01

The rising operating cost of providing healthcare is of concern to health care providers. As such, measurement of procurement performance will enable competitive advantage and provide a framework for continuous improvement. The objective of this paper is to develop a procurement performance measurement system. The paper reviews the existing literature in procurement performance measurement to identify the key areas of purchasing performance. By studying the three components in the supply chain collectively with the resources, procedures and output, a model is been developed. Additionally, a balanced scorecard is proposed by establishing a set of generic measures and six perspectives. A case study conducted at the Singapore Hospital applies the conceptual model to describe the purchasing department and the activities within and outside the department. The results indicate that the material management department has already made a good start in measuring the procurement process through the implementation of the balanced scorecard. There are many data that are collected but not properly collated and utilized. Areas lacking measurement include cycle time of delivery, order processing time, effectiveness, efficiency and reliability. Though a lot of hard work was involved, the advantages of establishing a measurement system outweigh the costs and efforts involved in its implementation. Results of balanced scorecard measurements provide decision-makers with critical information on efficiency and effectiveness of the purchasing department's work. The measurement model developed could be used for any hospital procurement system.

Improving Trends in Gender Disparities in the Department of Veterans Affairs: 2008–2013

PubMed Central

Czarnogorski, Maggie; Wright, Steve M.; Hayes, Patricia M.; Haskell, Sally G.

2014-01-01

Increasing numbers of women veterans using Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) services has contributed to the need for equitable, high-quality care for women. The VA has evaluated performance measure data by gender since 2006. In 2008, the VA launched a 5-year women’s health redesign, and, in 2011, gender disparity improvement was included on leadership performance plans. We examined data from VA Office of Analytics and Business Intelligence quarterly gender reports for trends in gender disparities in gender-neutral performance measures from 2008 to 2013. Through reporting of data by gender, leadership involvement, electronic reminders, and population management dashboards, VA has seen a decreasing trend in gender inequities on most Health Effectiveness Data and Information Set performance measures. PMID:25100416

Validation of GC and HPLC systems for residue studies

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

Williams, M.

1995-12-01

For residue studies, GC and HPLC system performance must be validated prior to and during use. One excellent measure of system performance is the standard curve and associated chromatograms used to construct that curve. The standard curve is a model of system response to an analyte over a specific time period, and is prima facia evidence of system performance beginning at the auto sampler and proceeding through the injector, column, detector, electronics, data-capture device, and printer/plotter. This tool measures the performance of the entire chromatographic system; its power negates most of the benefits associated with costly and time-consuming validation ofmore » individual system components. Other measures of instrument and method validation will be discussed, including quality control charts and experimental designs for method validation.« less

Micronutrient supplementation improves physical performance measures in Asian Indian school-age children.

PubMed

Vaz, Mario; Pauline, Maria; Unni, Uma S; Parikh, Panam; Thomas, Tinku; Bharathi, A V; Avadhany, Sandhya; Muthayya, Sumithra; Mehra, Ruchika; Kurpad, Anura V

2011-11-01

Micronutrients are important in physical work capacity and therefore performance. The impact of a multi-micronutrient-fortified nutritional beverage on physical performance measures among clinically healthy school-age children was assessed in a double-blind (for test and placebo groups), placebo-controlled, randomized trial in children aged between 7 and 10.5 y (n = 300). The participants with height- and weight-for-age Z-scores between 0 and ≥ -3 were randomized to 1 of 3 study arms: fortified choco-malt beverage powder (F), matched energy equivalent unfortified placebo (U), and untreated control (C). Participants in the F and C groups were given 40 g fortified (19 key vitamins and minerals) and unfortified choco-malt beverage, respectively, daily for 120 d. Primary efficacy outcomes included endurance and aerobic capacity using a 20-m shuttle test and step test. Other physical performance measures included speed (40-m sprint), visual reaction time, maximal hand grip, and forearm static endurance. Micronutrient status included thiamin, riboflavin, folate, niacin, iron, pyridoxal phosphate, and vitamins B-12 and C. All measurements were made at baseline and the end of the intervention. There was a within-subject increase in aerobic capacity and whole body endurance (P < 0.05) accompanied by a significant improvement in the status of iron thiamin, riboflavin, pyridoxal phosphate, folate, and vitamins C and B-12 in the F group compared to the within-subject changes in the other 2 groups (P < 0.05). The study suggests that multiple micronutrient supplementation in similar populations may be beneficial in improving micronutrient status and enhancing aerobic capacity and endurance in children.

Prony Ringdown GUI (CERTS Prony Ringdown, part of the DSI Tool Box)

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

Tuffner, Francis; Marinovici, PNNL Laurentiu; Hauer, PNNL John

2014-02-21

The PNNL Prony Ringdown graphical user interface is one analysis tool included in the Dynamic System Identification toolbox (DSI Toolbox). The Dynamic System Identification toolbox is a MATLAB-based collection of tools for parsing and analyzing phasor measurement unit data, especially in regards to small signal stability. It includes tools to read the data, preprocess it, and perform small signal analysis. 5. Method of Solution: The Dynamic System Identification Toolbox (DSI Toolbox) is designed to provide a research environment for examining phasor measurement unit data and performing small signal stability analysis. The software uses a series of text-driven menus to helpmore » guide users and organize the toolbox features. Methods for reading in populate phasor measurement unit data are provided, with appropriate preprocessing options for small-signal-stability analysis. The toolbox includes the Prony Ringdown GUI and basic algorithms to estimate information on oscillatory modes of the system, such as modal frequency and damping ratio.« less

Integrating the use of patient-reported outcomes for both clinical practice and performance measurement: views of experts from 3 countries.

PubMed

Van Der Wees, Philip J; Nijhuis-Van Der Sanden, Maria W G; Ayanian, John Z; Black, Nick; Westert, Gert P; Schneider, Eric C

2014-12-01

Policy Points: The patient-reported outcome (PRO) is a standardized method for measuring patients' views of their health status. Our international study showed that experts in clinical practice and performance measurement supported the integrated collection of PRO data for use in both clinical care and performance measurement. The measurement of PROs to support patient-provider decisions and the use of PRO performance measures to evaluate health care providers have developed both separately and in parallel. The use of PROs would benefit from a shared vision by health care providers, purchasers of care, and patients regarding the aims and purposes of the various applications; and the establishment of trust among stakeholders concerning the prudent use of PRO performance measures. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) can play an important role in patient-centered health care by focusing on the patient's health goals guiding therapeutic decisions. When aggregated, PROs also can be used for other purposes, including comparative effectiveness research, practice improvement, assessment of the performance of clinicians and organizations, and as a metric for value-based payments. The feasibility of integrating the use of PROs for these various purposes on a wide scale has not yet been demonstrated. Our study was conducted to inform policymakers of prudent next steps for implementing PROs in clinical practice and performance measurement programs in order to maximize their impact on the quality of health care. We conducted a qualitative study, interviewing 58 experts and leaders from 37 organizations (response rate: 88%) in the United States, England, and the Netherlands. Respondents included clinical practitioners (n = 30), measure developers (n = 11), and leaders of performance measurement programs (n = 17). We used a qualitative content analysis to assess current strategies for applying PROs in clinical practice and performance measurement and to identify barriers to and facilitators of further implementation. The use of PROs in clinical practice and for performance measurement has developed both separately and in parallel. Experts across the stakeholder spectrum support the collection of PRO data in an integrated manner that would enable using the data for these distinct purposes. We identified 2 main concerns about the feasibility for integrated use of PRO data: the complexity of establishing routine data collection and the tension among stakeholders when using PRO data for different purposes. These contrasting stakeholder views suggested varying interests among clinicians, measure developers, and purchasers of care. Data collection approaches that support the use of PROs in health care are underdeveloped, need better integration with clinical care, and must be tailored to the characteristics of the health care system. Enabling the sustainable use of PROs will require a shared vision of clinical professionals, purchasers, and patients, with a prudent selection of the steps in implementing PROs that will maximize their impact on the quality of health care. © 2014 Milbank Memorial Fund.

Are university rankings useful to improve research? A systematic review

PubMed Central

Momani, Shaher

2018-01-01

Introduction Concerns about reproducibility and impact of research urge improvement initiatives. Current university ranking systems evaluate and compare universities on measures of academic and research performance. Although often useful for marketing purposes, the value of ranking systems when examining quality and outcomes is unclear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate usefulness of ranking systems and identify opportunities to support research quality and performance improvement. Methods A systematic review of university ranking systems was conducted to investigate research performance and academic quality measures. Eligibility requirements included: inclusion of at least 100 doctoral granting institutions, be currently produced on an ongoing basis and include both global and US universities, publish rank calculation methodology in English and independently calculate ranks. Ranking systems must also include some measures of research outcomes. Indicators were abstracted and contrasted with basic quality improvement requirements. Exploration of aggregation methods, validity of research and academic quality indicators, and suitability for quality improvement within ranking systems were also conducted. Results A total of 24 ranking systems were identified and 13 eligible ranking systems were evaluated. Six of the 13 rankings are 100% focused on research performance. For those reporting weighting, 76% of the total ranks are attributed to research indicators, with 24% attributed to academic or teaching quality. Seven systems rely on reputation surveys and/or faculty and alumni awards. Rankings influence academic choice yet research performance measures are the most weighted indicators. There are no generally accepted academic quality indicators in ranking systems. Discussion No single ranking system provides a comprehensive evaluation of research and academic quality. Utilizing a combined approach of the Leiden, Thomson Reuters Most Innovative Universities, and the SCImago ranking systems may provide institutions with a more effective feedback for research improvement. Rankings which extensively rely on subjective reputation and “luxury” indicators, such as award winning faculty or alumni who are high ranking executives, are not well suited for academic or research performance improvement initiatives. Future efforts should better explore measurement of the university research performance through comprehensive and standardized indicators. This paper could serve as a general literature citation when one or more of university ranking systems are used in efforts to improve academic prominence and research performance. PMID:29513762

Calibration and performance measurements for the nasa deep space network aperture enhancement project (daep)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

LaBelle, Remi C.; Rochblatt, David J.

2018-06-01

The NASA Deep Space Network (DSN) has recently constructed two new 34-m antennas at the Canberra Deep Space Communications Complex (CDSCC). These new antennas are part of the larger DAEP project to add six new 34-m antennas to the DSN, including two in Madrid, three in Canberra and one in Goldstone (California). The DAEP project included development and implementation of several new technologies for the X, and Ka (32 GHz) -band uplink and downlink electronics. The electronics upgrades were driven by several different considerations, including parts obsolescence, cost reduction, improved reliability and maintainability, and capability to meet future performance requirements. The new antennas are required to support TT&C links for all of the NASA deep-space spacecraft, as well as for several international partners. Some of these missions, such as Voyager 1 and 2, have very limited link budgets, which results in demanding requirements for system G/T performance. These antennas are also required to support radio science missions with several spacecraft, which dictate some demanding requirements for spectral purity, amplitude stability and phase stability for both the uplink and downlink electronics. After completion of these upgrades, a comprehensive campaign of tests and measurements took place to characterize the electronics and calibrate the antennas. Radiometric measurement techniques were applied to characterize, calibrate, and optimize the performance of the antenna parameters. These included optical and RF high-resolution holographic and total power radiometry techniques. The methodology and techniques utilized for the measurement and calibration of the antennas is described in this paper. Lessons learned (not all discussed in this paper) from the commissioning of the first antenna (DSS-35) were applied to the commissioning of the second antenna (DSS-36). These resulted in achieving antenna aperture efficiency of 66% (for DSS-36), at Ka-Band (32-Ghz), which is currently the highest operating frequency for these antennas. The other measurements and results described include antenna noise temperature, photogrammetry and holography alignment of antenna panels, beam-waveguide mirrors, and subreflector, antenna aperture efficiencies and G/T versus frequency, and antenna pointing models. The first antenna (DSS-35) entered into operations in October 2014 and the 2nd antenna (DSS-36) in October 2016. This paper describes the measurement techniques and results of the testing and calibration for both antennas, along with the driving requirements.

Development and implementation of an automated quantitative film digitizer quality control program

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fetterly, Kenneth A.; Avula, Ramesh T. V.; Hangiandreou, Nicholas J.

1999-05-01

A semi-automated, quantitative film digitizer quality control program that is based on the computer analysis of the image data from a single digitized test film was developed. This program includes measurements of the geometric accuracy, optical density performance, signal to noise ratio, and presampled modulation transfer function. The variability of the measurements was less than plus or minus 5%. Measurements were made on a group of two clinical and two laboratory laser film digitizers during a trial period of approximately four months. Quality control limits were established based on clinical necessity, vendor specifications and digitizer performance. During the trial period, one of the digitizers failed the performance requirements and was corrected by calibration.

Social support and performance anxiety of college music students.

PubMed

Schneider, Erin; Chesky, Kris

2011-09-01

This study characterized perceived social support and performance anxiety of college music students, compared characteristics to those of non-music majors, and explored the relationships between social support and performance anxiety. Subjects (n = 609) completed a questionnaire that included demographics, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), and visual analog scale measures of performance anxiety. Results showed that music majors perceived significantly lower levels of social support from significant others when compared to non-music majors. Perceived social support was significantly correlated with measures of performance anxiety. Students with greater perceived social support reported less frequent anxiety and lower levels of impact of anxiety on ability to perform. These findings may have practical implications for schools of music and conservatories.

Using system-of-systems simulation modeling and analysis to measure energy KPP impacts for brigade combat team missions.

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

Lawton, Craig R.; Welch, Kimberly M.; Kerper, Jessica

2010-06-01

The Department of Defense's (DoD) Energy Posture identified dependence of the US Military on fossil fuel energy as a key issue facing the military. Inefficient energy consumption leads to increased costs, effects operational performance and warfighter protection through large and vulnerable logistics support infrastructures. Military's use of energy is a critical national security problem. DoD's proposed metrics Fully Burdened Cost of Fuel and Energy Efficiency Key Performance Parameter (FBCF and Energy KPP) are a positive step to force energy use accountability onto Military programs. The ability to measure impacts of sustainment are required to fully measure Energy KPP. Sandia's workmore » with Army demonstrates the capability to measure performance which includes energy constraint.« less

Personality and job performance: the Big Five revisited.

PubMed

Hurtz, G M; Donovan, J J

2000-12-01

Prior meta-analyses investigating the relation between the Big 5 personality dimensions and job performance have all contained a threat to construct validity, in that much of the data included within these analyses was not derived from actual Big 5 measures. In addition, these reviews did not address the relations between the Big 5 and contextual performance. Therefore, the present study sought to provide a meta-analytic estimate of the criterion-related validity of explicit Big 5 measures for predicting job performance and contextual performance. The results for job performance closely paralleled 2 of the previous meta-analyses, whereas analyses with contextual performance showed more complex relations among the Big 5 and performance. A more critical interpretation of the Big 5-performance relationship is presented, and suggestions for future research aimed at enhancing the validity of personality predictors are provided.

Measurement Techniques for Transmit Source Clock Jitter for Weak Serial RF Links

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lansdowne, Chatwin A.; Schlesinger, Adam M.

2010-01-01

Techniques for filtering clock jitter measurements are developed, in the context of controlling data modulation jitter on an RF carrier to accommodate low signal-to-noise ratio thresholds of high-performance error correction codes. Measurement artifacts from sampling are considered, and a tutorial on interpretation of direct readings is included.

Reading Component Skills of Learners in Adult Basic Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

MacArthur, Charles A.; Konold, Timothy R.; Glutting, Joseph J.; Alamprese, Judith A.

2010-01-01

The purposes of this study were to investigate the reliability and construct validity of measures of reading component skills with a sample of adult basic education (ABE) learners, including both native and nonnative English speakers, and to describe the performance of those learners on the measures. Investigation of measures of reading components…

An Adaptive Scheme for Robot Localization and Mapping with Dynamically Configurable Inter-Beacon Range Measurements

PubMed Central

Torres-González, Arturo; Martinez-de Dios, Jose Ramiro; Ollero, Anibal

2014-01-01

This work is motivated by robot-sensor network cooperation techniques where sensor nodes (beacons) are used as landmarks for range-only (RO) simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM). This paper presents a RO-SLAM scheme that actuates over the measurement gathering process using mechanisms that dynamically modify the rate and variety of measurements that are integrated in the SLAM filter. It includes a measurement gathering module that can be configured to collect direct robot-beacon and inter-beacon measurements with different inter-beacon depth levels and at different rates. It also includes a supervision module that monitors the SLAM performance and dynamically selects the measurement gathering configuration balancing SLAM accuracy and resource consumption. The proposed scheme has been applied to an extended Kalman filter SLAM with auxiliary particle filters for beacon initialization (PF-EKF SLAM) and validated with experiments performed in the CONET Integrated Testbed. It achieved lower map and robot errors (34% and 14%, respectively) than traditional methods with a lower computational burden (16%) and similar beacon energy consumption. PMID:24776938

An adaptive scheme for robot localization and mapping with dynamically configurable inter-beacon range measurements.

PubMed

Torres-González, Arturo; Martinez-de Dios, Jose Ramiro; Ollero, Anibal

2014-04-25

This work is motivated by robot-sensor network cooperation techniques where sensor nodes (beacons) are used as landmarks for range-only (RO) simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM). This paper presents a RO-SLAM scheme that actuates over the measurement gathering process using mechanisms that dynamically modify the rate and variety of measurements that are integrated in the SLAM filter. It includes a measurement gathering module that can be configured to collect direct robot-beacon and inter-beacon measurements with different inter-beacon depth levels and at different rates. It also includes a supervision module that monitors the SLAM performance and dynamically selects the measurement gathering configuration balancing SLAM accuracy and resource consumption. The proposed scheme has been applied to an extended Kalman filter SLAM with auxiliary particle filters for beacon initialization (PF-EKF SLAM) and validated with experiments performed in the CONET Integrated Testbed. It achieved lower map and robot errors (34% and 14%, respectively) than traditional methods with a lower computational burden (16%) and similar beacon energy consumption.

Exploratory study on performance measures as indicators of IS effectiveness

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bishop, Peter C.; Yoes, Cissy

1992-01-01

The Information Systems Directorate at JSC/NASA has undertaken the reevaluation of its performance measures process and measures. Under the direction of a quality approach it is essential to identify an external perspective of how well an organization is performing. This study was conducted with two major objectives: (1) survey and summarize the academic literature on performance measures as indicators of information systems (IS) effectiveness; and (2) survey organizations for their experience in measuring for IS effectiveness. Four approaches to measuring the effectiveness of IS performance were identified: (1) listen to the customer for the things they need; (2) align with corporate goals; (3) benchmark against well-respected organizations; and (4) ask yourself what critical factors lead to success. The list of known methods for soliciting customer feedback are as follows: (1) executive visit; (2) survey, interview, and focus group; (3) complaints and compliments; and (4) service level agreements. A common set of characteristics that satisfy customers was identified from the literature. The list includes elements such as the following: accuracy, timeliness, relevance, understandability, reliability, and completeness. Future research in this topic area should prove beneficial to determine the metrics for external validity.

Using the Human Activity Profile to Assess Functional Performance in Heart Failure.

PubMed

Ribeiro-Samora, Giane Amorim; Pereira, Danielle Aparecida Gomes; Vieira, Otávia Alves; de Alencar, Maria Clara Noman; Rodrigues, Roseane Santo; Carvalho, Maria Luiza Vieira; Montemezzo, Dayane; Britto, Raquel Rodrigues

2016-01-01

To investigate (1) the validity of using the Human Activity Profile (HAP) in patients with heart failure (HF) to estimate functional capacity; (2) the association between the HAP and 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) distance; and (3) the ability of the HAP to differentiate between New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional classes. In a cross-sectional study, we evaluated 62 clinically stable patients with HF (mean age, 47.98 years; NYHA class I-III). Variables included maximal functional capacity as measured by peak oxygen uptake ((Equation is included in full-text article.)O2) using a cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET), peak (Equation is included in full-text article.)O2 as estimated by the HAP, and exercise capacity as measured by the 6MWT. The difference between the measured (CPET) and estimated (HAP) peak (Equation is included in full-text article.)O2 against the average values showed a bias of 2.18 mL/kg/min (P = .007). No agreement was seen between these measures when applying the Bland-Altman method. Peak (Equation is included in full-text article.)O2 in the HAP showed a moderate association with the 6MWT distance (r = 0.62; P < .0001). Peak (Equation is included in full-text article.)O2 in the HAP was able to statistically differentiate NYHA functional classes I, II, and III (P < .05). The estimated peak (Equation is included in full-text article.)O2 using the HAP was not concordant with the gold standard CPET measure. On the contrary, the HAP was able to differentiate NYHA functional class associated with the 6MWT distance; therefore, the HAP is a useful tool for assessing functional performance in patients with HF.

UV Raman and Fluorescence for Multi-Species Measurement in Hydrocarbon-Fueled High-Speed Propulsion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Skaggs, Patricia Annette; Nandula, Sastri P.; Pitz, Robert W.

1999-01-01

This report documents work performed through the NASA Graduate Student Researchers Program, Grant No. NGT3-52316. Research performed included investigation of two-line fluorescence imaging of OH for temperature measurement and an investigation of negative flame speeds for modeling of premixed turbulent flames. The laboratory work and initial analysis of the fluorescence imaging was performed at NASA Glen Research Center with follow up analysis at Vanderbilt University. The negative flame speed investigation was performed using an opposed jet flow simulation program at Vanderbilt University. The fluorescence imaging work is presented first followed by the negative flame speed investigation.

Rapid core measure improvement through a "business case for quality".

PubMed

Perlin, Jonathan B; Horner, Stephen J; Englebright, Jane D; Bracken, Richard M

2014-01-01

Incentives to improve performance are emerging as revenue or financial penalties are linked to the measured quality of service provided. The HCA "Getting to Green" program was designed to rapidly increase core measure performance scores. Program components included (1) the "business case for quality"-increased awareness of how quality drives financial performance; (2) continuous communication of clinical and financial performance data; and (3) evidence-based clinical protocols, incentives, and tools for process improvement. Improvement was measured by comparing systemwide rates of adherence to national quality measures for heart failure (HF), acute myocardial infarction (AMI), pneumonia (PN), and surgical care (SCIP) to rates from all facilities reporting to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). As of the second quarter of 2011, 70% of HCA total measure set composite scores were at or above the 90th percentile of CMS scores. A test of differences in regression coefficients between the CMS national average and the HCA average revealed significant differences for AMI (p = .001), HF (p = .012), PN (p < .001), and SCIP (p = .015). This program demonstrated that presentation of the financial implications of quality, transparency in performance data, and clearly defined goals could cultivate the desire to use improvement tools and resources to raise performance. © 2012 National Association for Healthcare Quality.

Measures of Time-Sharing Skill and Gender as Predictors of Flight Simulator Performance.

DTIC Science & Technology

1979-01-01

well as overall e- quations including gender as a variable. Besides gender in the overall equations, measures of time-sharing skill were the best ...study indicated the best predictors of dual or whole-task performance were other dual-tasks. Furthermore, the particular components involved in a dual...switching between tasks, or the use of efficient response strategies " (Damos and Wickens, 1977, p.2). Attentional flexibility. According to Keele

Brain structure and executive functions in children with cerebral palsy: a systematic review.

PubMed

Weierink, Lonneke; Vermeulen, R Jeroen; Boyd, Roslyn N

2013-05-01

This systematic review aimed to establish the current knowledge about brain structure and executive function (EF) in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Five databases were searched (up till July 2012). Six articles met the inclusion criteria, all included structural brain imaging though no functional brain imaging. Study quality was assessed using the STROBE checklist. All articles scored between 58.7% and 70.5% for quality (100% is the maximum score). The included studies all reported poorer performance on EF tasks for children with CP compared to children without CP. For the selected EF measures non-significant effect sizes were found for the CP group compared to a semi-control group (children without cognitive deficits but not included in a control group). This could be due to the small sample sizes, group heterogeneity and lack of comparison of the CP group to typically developing children. The included studies did not consider specific brain areas associated with EF performance. To conclude, there is a paucity of brain imaging studies focused on EF in children with CP, especially of studies that include functional brain imaging. Outcomes of the present studies are difficult to compare as each study included different EF measures and cortical abnormality measures. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Suns-VOC characteristics of high performance kesterite solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gunawan, Oki; Gokmen, Tayfun; Mitzi, David B.

2014-08-01

Low open circuit voltage (VOC) has been recognized as the number one problem in the current generation of Cu2ZnSn(Se,S)4 (CZTSSe) solar cells. We report high light intensity and low temperature Suns-VOC measurement in high performance CZTSSe devices. The Suns-VOC curves exhibit bending at high light intensity, which points to several prospective VOC limiting mechanisms that could impact the VOC, even at 1 sun for lower performing samples. These VOC limiting mechanisms include low bulk conductivity (because of low hole density or low mobility), bulk or interface defects, including tail states, and a non-ohmic back contact for low carrier density CZTSSe. The non-ohmic back contact problem can be detected by Suns-VOC measurements with different monochromatic illuminations. These limiting factors may also contribute to an artificially lower JSC-VOC diode ideality factor.

Mobile Robot and Mobile Manipulator Research Towards ASTM Standards Development.

PubMed

Bostelman, Roger; Hong, Tsai; Legowik, Steven

2016-01-01

Performance standards for industrial mobile robots and mobile manipulators (robot arms onboard mobile robots) have only recently begun development. Low cost and standardized measurement techniques are needed to characterize system performance, compare different systems, and to determine if recalibration is required. This paper discusses work at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and within the ASTM Committee F45 on Driverless Automatic Guided Industrial Vehicles. This includes standards for both terminology, F45.91, and for navigation performance test methods, F45.02. The paper defines terms that are being considered. Additionally, the paper describes navigation test methods that are near ballot and docking test methods being designed for consideration within F45.02. This includes the use of low cost artifacts that can provide alternatives to using relatively expensive measurement systems.

Mobile Robot and Mobile Manipulator Research Towards ASTM Standards Development

PubMed Central

Bostelman, Roger; Hong, Tsai; Legowik, Steven

2017-01-01

Performance standards for industrial mobile robots and mobile manipulators (robot arms onboard mobile robots) have only recently begun development. Low cost and standardized measurement techniques are needed to characterize system performance, compare different systems, and to determine if recalibration is required. This paper discusses work at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and within the ASTM Committee F45 on Driverless Automatic Guided Industrial Vehicles. This includes standards for both terminology, F45.91, and for navigation performance test methods, F45.02. The paper defines terms that are being considered. Additionally, the paper describes navigation test methods that are near ballot and docking test methods being designed for consideration within F45.02. This includes the use of low cost artifacts that can provide alternatives to using relatively expensive measurement systems. PMID:28690359

Commercial Carpentry: Instructional Units.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Diehl, Donald W.; Penner, Wayman R.

This manual contains instructional materials which measure student performance on commercial carpentry behavioral objectives; criterion-referenced evaluation instruments are also included. Each of the manual's eleven sections consists of one or more units of instruction. Each instructional unit includes behavioral objectives, suggested activities…

Data and software tools for gamma radiation spectral threat detection and nuclide identification algorithm development and evaluation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Portnoy, David; Fisher, Brian; Phifer, Daniel

2015-06-01

The detection of radiological and nuclear threats is extremely important to national security. The federal government is spending significant resources developing new detection systems and attempting to increase the performance of existing ones. The detection of illicit radionuclides that may pose a radiological or nuclear threat is a challenging problem complicated by benign radiation sources (e.g., cat litter and medical treatments), shielding, and large variations in background radiation. Although there is a growing acceptance within the community that concentrating efforts on algorithm development (independent of the specifics of fully assembled systems) has the potential for significant overall system performance gains, there are two major hindrances to advancements in gamma spectral analysis algorithms under the current paradigm: access to data and common performance metrics along with baseline performance measures. Because many of the signatures collected during performance measurement campaigns are classified, dissemination to algorithm developers is extremely limited. This leaves developers no choice but to collect their own data if they are lucky enough to have access to material and sensors. This is often combined with their own definition of metrics for measuring performance. These two conditions make it all but impossible for developers and external reviewers to make meaningful comparisons between algorithms. Without meaningful comparisons, performance advancements become very hard to achieve and (more importantly) recognize. The objective of this work is to overcome these obstacles by developing and freely distributing real and synthetically generated gamma-spectra data sets as well as software tools for performance evaluation with associated performance baselines to national labs, academic institutions, government agencies, and industry. At present, datasets for two tracks, or application domains, have been developed: one that includes temporal spectral data at 1 s time intervals, which represents data collected by a mobile system operating in a dynamic radiation background environment; and one that represents static measurements with a foreground spectrum (background plus source) and a background spectrum. These data include controlled variations in both Source Related Factors (nuclide, nuclide combinations, activities, distances, collection times, shielding configurations, and background spectra) and Detector Related Factors (currently only gain shifts, but resolution changes and non-linear energy calibration errors will be added soon). The software tools will allow the developer to evaluate the performance impact of each of these factors. Although this first implementation is somewhat limited in scope, considering only NaI-based detection systems and two application domains, it is hoped that (with community feedback) a wider range of detector types and applications will be included in the future. This article describes the methods used for dataset creation, the software validation/performance measurement tools, the performance metrics used, and examples of baseline performance.

Anthropometric and Performance Measures for High School Basketball Players

PubMed Central

Greene, Joseph J.; McGuine, Timothy A.; Leverson, Glen; Best, Thomas M.

1998-01-01

Objective: To determine possible anthropometric and performance sex differences in a population of high school basketball players. Design and Setting: Measurements were collected during the first week of basketball practice before the 1995-1996 season. Varsity basketball players from 4 high schools were tested on a battery of measures chosen to detect possible anthropometric and performance sex differences. Subjects: Fifty-four female and sixty-one male subjects, from varsity basketball teams at high schools enrolled in the athletic training outreach program at the University of Wisconsin Hospital Sports Medicine Center in Madison, WI, volunteered to take part in this study. Measurements: We took anthropometric measurements on each of the 115 subjects. These included height, weight, body composition, ankle range of motion, and medial longitudinal arch type in weightbearing. Performance measures included the vertical jump, 22.86-m (25-yd) shuttle run, 18.29-m (20-yd) sprint, and single-limb balance time. Results: We compared anthropometric and performance characteristics using a 2-sample t test. The only exception to this was for medial longitudinal arch type, where the 2 groups were compared using a 2-tailed Fisher's exact test. The male subjects were significantly taller and heavier, while the females had a significantly higher percentage of body fat. There were no significant differences found for ankle plantar flexion and dorsiflexion, but the females had significantly more inversion and eversion range of motion. Analysis of medial longitudinal arch type found females to have a higher percentage of pronated arches and males to have a higher percentage of supinated arches. Performance testing revealed that the males were able to jump significantly higher and run the 22.86-m (25-yard) shuttle run and 18.29-m (20-yard) sprint significantly faster than the female subjects. There was no significant difference between the groups for single-limb balance time. Conclusions: We found significant anthropometric and performance sex differences in a cohort of high school basketball players. Further study of these measures is necessary to determine if these differences can predict the risk for ankle injuries in this particular population. PMID:16558515

Does adding clinical data to administrative data improve agreement among hospital quality measures?

PubMed

Hanchate, Amresh D; Stolzmann, Kelly L; Rosen, Amy K; Fink, Aaron S; Shwartz, Michael; Ash, Arlene S; Abdulkerim, Hassen; Pugh, Mary Jo V; Shokeen, Priti; Borzecki, Ann

2017-09-01

Hospital performance measures based on patient mortality and readmission have indicated modest rates of agreement. We examined if combining clinical data on laboratory tests and vital signs with administrative data leads to improved agreement with each other, and with other measures of hospital performance in the nation's largest integrated health care system. We used patient-level administrative and clinical data, and hospital-level data on quality indicators, for 2007-2010 from the Veterans Health Administration (VA). For patients admitted for acute myocardial infarction (AMI), heart failure (HF) and pneumonia we examined changes in hospital performance on 30-d mortality and 30-d readmission rates as a result of adding clinical data to administrative data. We evaluated whether this enhancement yielded improved measures of hospital quality, based on concordance with other hospital quality indicators. For 30-d mortality, data enhancement improved model performance, and significantly changed hospital performance profiles; for 30-d readmission, the impact was modest. Concordance between enhanced measures of both outcomes, and with other hospital quality measures - including Joint Commission process measures, VA Surgical Quality Improvement Program (VASQIP) mortality and morbidity, and case volume - remained poor. Adding laboratory tests and vital signs to measure hospital performance on mortality and readmission did not improve the poor rates of agreement across hospital quality indicators in the VA. Efforts to improve risk adjustment models should continue; however, evidence of validation should precede their use as reliable measures of quality. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Time to antibiotics for septic shock: evaluating a proposed performance measure.

PubMed

Venkatesh, Arjun K; Avula, Umakanth; Bartimus, Holly; Reif, Justin; Schmidt, Michael J; Powell, Emilie S

2013-04-01

International guidelines recommend antibiotics within 1 hour of septic shock recognition; however, a recently proposed performance measure is focused on measuring antibiotic administration within 3 hours of emergency department (ED) arrival. Our objective was to describe the time course of septic shock and subsequent implications for performance measurement. Cross-sectional study of consecutive ED patients ultimately diagnosed with septic shock. All patients were evaluated at an urban, academic ED in 2006 to 2008. Primary outcomes included time to definition of septic shock and performance on 2 measures: antibiotics within 3 hours of ED arrival vs antibiotics within 1 hour of septic shock definition. Of 267 patients with septic shock, the median time to definition was 88 minutes (interquartile range, 37-156), and 217 patients (81.9%) met the definition within 3 hours of arrival. Of 221 (83.4%) of patients who received antibiotics within 3 hours of arrival, 38 (17.2%) did not receive antibiotics within 1 hour of definition. Of 207 patients who received antibiotics within 1 hour of definition, 11.6% (n = 24) did not receive antibiotics within 3 hours of arrival. The arrival measure did not accurately classify performance in 23.4% of patients. Nearly 1 of 5 patients cannot be captured for performance measurement within 3 hours of ED arrival due to the variable progression of septic shock. Use of this measure would misclassify performance in 23% of patients. Measuring antibiotic administration based on the clinical course of septic shock rather than from ED arrival would be more appropriate. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Methodology for the preliminary design of high performance schools in hot and humid climates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Im, Piljae

A methodology to develop an easy-to-use toolkit for the preliminary design of high performance schools in hot and humid climates was presented. The toolkit proposed in this research will allow decision makers without simulation knowledge easily to evaluate accurately energy efficient measures for K-5 schools, which would contribute to the accelerated dissemination of energy efficient design. For the development of the toolkit, first, a survey was performed to identify high performance measures available today being implemented in new K-5 school buildings. Then an existing case-study school building in a hot and humid climate was selected and analyzed to understand the energy use pattern in a school building and to be used in developing a calibrated simulation. Based on the information from the previous step, an as-built and calibrated simulation was then developed. To accomplish this, five calibration steps were performed to match the simulation results with the measured energy use. The five steps include: (1) Using an actual 2006 weather file with measured solar radiation, (2) Modifying lighting & equipment schedule using ASHRAE's RP-1093 methods, (3) Using actual equipment performance curves (i.e., scroll chiller), (4) Using the Winkelmann's method for the underground floor heat transfer, and (5) Modifying the HVAC and room setpoint temperature based on the measured field data. Next, the calibrated simulation of the case-study K-5 school was compared to an ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1999 code-compliant school. In the next step, the energy savings potentials from the application of several high performance measures to an equivalent ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1999 code-compliant school. The high performance measures applied included the recommendations from the ASHRAE Advanced Energy Design Guides (AEDG) for K-12 and other high performance measures from the literature review as well as a daylighting strategy and solar PV and thermal systems. The results show that the net energy consumption of the final high performance school with the solar thermal and a solar PV system would be 1,162.1 MMBtu, which corresponds to the 14.9 kBtu/sqft-yr of EUI. The calculated final energy and cost savings over the code compliant school are 68.2% and 69.9%, respectively. As a final step of the research, specifications for a simplified easy-to-use toolkit were then developed, and a prototype screenshot of the toolkit was developed. The toolkit is expected to be used by non-technical decision-maker to select and evaluate high performance measures for a new school building in terms of energy and cost savings in a quick and easy way.

Analysis and implementation of PM sampling methodology protocols to aid in the development of an ARP (aerospace recommended practice) for aircraft non-volatile PM measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Catron, Brian Lowell

Due to the growing concerns that particulate matter (PM) have on health and the environment, there is a need to include mass and number non-volatile PM measurements to current jet engine certification. This thesis looks at the necessary work required to help produce recommendations and perform background research to aid in the creation of an improved Aerospace Recommended Practice (ARP) (by the SAE E-31 Committee). This work addressed the following issues. The investigation began in the Missouri S&T Center of Excellence for Aerospace Particulate Emissions Reduction Research (COE) laboratory with an examination of the jet engine surrogate used, the miniCAST, as well as integrating it into the COE's PM measurement system. A clean PM sample line was aged by running a PM source through it until a steady state signal was measured by the instruments in order to make a recommended procedure for line conditioning as well as reconditioning. Several eductors were studied for their performance characteristics and compared against desired characteristics, which suggested a need to include a pressure relief valve to cap the sample pressure at the eductor entrance. A volatile particle remover (VPR) was studied for penetration and ability to remove volatile material. A prototype E-31 system was setup at the second alternative aviation fuel experiment (AAFEX II), which provided a direct comparison of probe tip dilution and downstream dilution and found comparable results when line loss was taken into account. Also performed at AAFEX II was a study that compared measured sample line penetration with theoretical calculations finding that theoretical calculations were an accurate alternative of measuring line loss. Two PM sampling systems were setup at an ARP demonstration and both system had similar results for both number and mass measurement. An instrument comparison was also performed that included an examination of condensation particle counter (CPC) cutoff size. It was also determined that a VPR was necessary to ensure that number instrument devices were only measuring non-volatile PM.

Physiological and Performance Measures for Baseline Concussion Assessment.

PubMed

Dobney, Danielle M; Thomas, Scott G; Taha, Tim; Keightley, Michelle

2017-05-17

Baseline testing is a common strategy for concussion assessment and management. Research continues to evaluate novel measures for potential to improve baseline testing methods. The primary objective was to; 1) determine the feasibility of including physiological, neuromuscular and mood measures as part of baseline concussion testing protocol, 2) describe typical values in a varsity athlete sample, and 3) estimate the influence of concussion history on these baseline measures. Prospective observational study. University Athletic Therapy Clinic. 100 varsity athletes. Frequency and domain measures of heart rate variability (HRV), blood pressure (BP), grip strength, Profile of Mood States and the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool-2. Physiological, neuromuscular performance and mood measures were feasible at baseline. Participants with a history of two or more previous concussions displayed significantly higher diastolic blood pressure. Females reported higher total mood disturbance compared to males. Physiological and neuromuscular performance measures are safe and feasible as baseline concussion assessment outcomes. History of concussion may have an influence on diastolic blood pressure.

The implications of low-speed fixed-wing aerofoil measurements on the analysis and performance of flapping bird wings.

PubMed

Spedding, G R; Hedenström, A H; McArthur, J; Rosén, M

2008-01-01

Bird flight occurs over a range of Reynolds numbers (Re; 10(4) < or = Re < or = 10(5), where Re is a measure of the relative importance of inertia and viscosity) that includes regimes where standard aerofoil performance is difficult to predict, compute or measure, with large performance jumps in response to small changes in geometry or environmental conditions. A comparison of measurements of fixed wing performance as a function of Re, combined with quantitative flow visualisation techniques, shows that, surprisingly, wakes of flapping bird wings at moderate flight speeds admit to certain simplifications where their basic properties can be understood through quasi-steady analysis. Indeed, a commonly cited measure of the relative flapping frequency, or wake unsteadiness, the Strouhal number, is seen to be approximately constant in accordance with a simple requirement for maintaining a moderate local angle of attack on the wing. Together, the measurements imply a fine control of boundary layer separation on the wings, with implications for control strategies and wing shape selection by natural and artificial fliers.

Sampling Approaches for Multi-Domain Internet Performance Measurement Infrastructures

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

Calyam, Prasad

2014-09-15

The next-generation of high-performance networks being developed in DOE communities are critical for supporting current and emerging data-intensive science applications. The goal of this project is to investigate multi-domain network status sampling techniques and tools to measure/analyze performance, and thereby provide “network awareness” to end-users and network operators in DOE communities. We leverage the infrastructure and datasets available through perfSONAR, which is a multi-domain measurement framework that has been widely deployed in high-performance computing and networking communities; the DOE community is a core developer and the largest adopter of perfSONAR. Our investigations include development of semantic scheduling algorithms, measurement federationmore » policies, and tools to sample multi-domain and multi-layer network status within perfSONAR deployments. We validate our algorithms and policies with end-to-end measurement analysis tools for various monitoring objectives such as network weather forecasting, anomaly detection, and fault-diagnosis. In addition, we develop a multi-domain architecture for an enterprise-specific perfSONAR deployment that can implement monitoring-objective based sampling and that adheres to any domain-specific measurement policies.« less

Recent Progress Towards Predicting Aircraft Ground Handling Performance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yager, T. J.; White, E. J.

1981-01-01

The significant progress which has been achieved in development of aircraft ground handling simulation capability is reviewed and additional improvements in software modeling identified. The problem associated with providing necessary simulator input data for adequate modeling of aircraft tire/runway friction behavior is discussed and efforts to improve this complex model, and hence simulator fidelity, are described. Aircraft braking performance data obtained on several wet runway surfaces is compared to ground vehicle friction measurements and, by use of empirically derived methods, good agreement between actual and estimated aircraft braking friction from ground vehilce data is shown. The performance of a relatively new friction measuring device, the friction tester, showed great promise in providing data applicable to aircraft friction performance. Additional research efforts to improve methods of predicting tire friction performance are discussed including use of an instrumented tire test vehicle to expand the tire friction data bank and a study of surface texture measurement techniques.

Problems With Risk Reclassification Methods for Evaluating Prediction Models

PubMed Central

Pepe, Margaret S.

2011-01-01

For comparing the performance of a baseline risk prediction model with one that includes an additional predictor, a risk reclassification analysis strategy has been proposed. The first step is to cross-classify risks calculated according to the 2 models for all study subjects. Summary measures including the percentage of reclassification and the percentage of correct reclassification are calculated, along with 2 reclassification calibration statistics. The author shows that interpretations of the proposed summary measures and P values are problematic. The author's recommendation is to display the reclassification table, because it shows interesting information, but to use alternative methods for summarizing and comparing model performance. The Net Reclassification Index has been suggested as one alternative method. The author argues for reporting components of the Net Reclassification Index because they are more clinically relevant than is the single numerical summary measure. PMID:21555714

School Gardens Enhance Academic Performance and Dietary Outcomes in Children.

PubMed

Berezowitz, Claire K; Bontrager Yoder, Andrea B; Schoeller, Dale A

2015-08-01

Schools face increasing demands to provide education on healthy living and improve core academic performance. Although these appear to be competing concerns, they may interact beneficially. This article focuses on school garden programs and their effects on students' academic and dietary outcomes. Database searches in CABI, Web of Science, Web of Knowledge, PubMed, Education Full Text, Education Resources Information Center (ERIC), and PsychINFO were conducted through May 2013 for peer-reviewed literature related to school-day garden interventions with measures of dietary and/or academic outcomes. Among 12 identified garden studies with dietary measures, all showed increases/improvements in predictors of fruit and vegetable (FV) consumption. Seven of these also included self-reported FV intake with 5 showing an increase and 2 showing no change. Four additional interventions that included a garden component measured academic outcomes; of these, 2 showed improvements in science achievement and 1 measured and showed improvements in math scores. This small set of studies offers evidence that garden-based learning does not negatively impact academic performance or FV consumption and may favorably impact both. Additional studies with more robust experimental designs and outcome measures are necessary to understand the effects of experiential garden-based learning on children's academic and dietary outcomes. © 2015, American School Health Association.

A systematic investigation of the link between rational number processing and algebra ability.

PubMed

Hurst, Michelle; Cordes, Sara

2018-02-01

Recent research suggests that fraction understanding is predictive of algebra ability; however, the relative contributions of various aspects of rational number knowledge are unclear. Furthermore, whether this relationship is notation-dependent or rather relies upon a general understanding of rational numbers (independent of notation) is an open question. In this study, college students completed a rational number magnitude task, procedural arithmetic tasks in fraction and decimal notation, and an algebra assessment. Using these tasks, we measured three different aspects of rational number ability in both fraction and decimal notation: (1) acuity of underlying magnitude representations, (2) fluency with which symbols are mapped to the underlying magnitudes, and (3) fluency with arithmetic procedures. Analyses reveal that when looking at the measures of magnitude understanding, the relationship between adults' rational number magnitude performance and algebra ability is dependent upon notation. However, once performance on arithmetic measures is included in the relationship, individual measures of magnitude understanding are no longer unique predictors of algebra performance. Furthermore, when including all measures simultaneously, results revealed that arithmetic fluency in both fraction and decimal notation each uniquely predicted algebra ability. Findings are the first to demonstrate a relationship between rational number understanding and algebra ability in adults while providing a clearer picture of the nature of this relationship. © 2017 The British Psychological Society.

A Tutorial on Probablilistic Risk Assessement and its Role in Risk-Informed Decision Making

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dezfuli, Homayoon

2010-01-01

This slide presentation reviews risk assessment and its role in risk-informed decision making. It includes information on probabilistic risk assessment, typical risk management process, origins of risk matrix, performance measures, performance objectives and Bayes theorem.

Welding, V-TECS Guide.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Moore, Charles G.; And Others

This guide provides job-related tasks, performance objectives, performance guides, resources, teaching activities, evaluation standards, and criterion-referenced measures in three units of a welding course. Through the curriculum content of the welding course, the guide helps teachers lead students through the learning process, including the…

Underwater characterization of control rods for waste disposal using SMOPY

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

Gallozzi-Ulmann, A.; Couturier, P.; Amgarou, K.

Storage of spent fuel assemblies in cooling ponds requires careful control of the geometry and proximity of adjacent assemblies. Measurement of the fuel burnup makes it possible to optimise the storage arrangement of assemblies taking into account the effect of the burnup on the criticality safety margins ('burnup credit'). Canberra has developed a measurement system for underwater measurement of spent fuel assemblies. This system, known as 'SMOPY', performs burnup measurements based on gamma spectroscopy (collimated CZT detector) and neutron counting (fission chamber). The SMOPY system offers a robust and waterproof detection system as well as the needed capability of performingmore » radiometric measurements in the harsh high dose - rate environments of the cooling ponds. The gamma spectroscopy functionality allows powerful characterization measurements to be performed, in addition to burnup measurement. Canberra has recently performed waste characterisation measurements at a Nuclear Power Plant. Waste activity assessment is important to control costs and risks of shipment and storage, to ensure that the activity level remains in the range allowed by the facility, and to declare activity data to authorities. This paper describes the methodology used for the SMOPY measurements and some preliminary results of a radiological characterisation of AIC control rods. After describing the features and normal operation of the SMOPY system, we describe the approach used for establishing an optimum control rod geometric scanning approach (optimum count time and speed) and the method of the gamma spectrometry measurements as well as neutron check measurements used to verify the absence of neutron sources in the waste. We discuss the results obtained including {sup 60}Co, {sup 110m}Ag and {sup 108m}Ag activity profiles (along the length of the control rods) and neutron results including Total Measurement Uncertainty evaluations. Full self-consistency checks were performed and these demonstrate the validity of the techniques. The results are described and analysed in the context of the measurement performance of the equipment. Different casks were fully characterized using a 60 mm{sup 3} CZT detector, to determine the total activities and spatial profiles. A total activity range measurement of 1x10{sup 8} - 1x10{sup 13} Bq/cm was found to be achievable. Finally, comments are made, based on our measurements, on the ability of this equipment for performing in-situ characterisation of wastes in the harsh environments typical of fuel assembly and waste storage ponds and silos. (authors)« less

Relationships between academic performance of medical students and their workplace performance as junior doctors.

PubMed

Carr, Sandra E; Celenza, Antonio; Puddey, Ian B; Lake, Fiona

2014-07-30

Little recent published evidence explores the relationship between academic performance in medical school and performance as a junior doctor. Although many forms of assessment are used to demonstrate a medical student's knowledge or competence, these measures may not reliably predict performance in clinical practice following graduation. This descriptive cohort study explores the relationship between academic performance of medical students and workplace performance as junior doctors, including the influence of age, gender, ethnicity, clinical attachment, assessment type and summary score measures (grade point average) on performance in the workplace as measured by the Junior Doctor Assessment Tool. There were two hundred participants. There were significant correlations between performance as a Junior Doctor (combined overall score) and the grade point average (r = 0.229, P = 0.002), the score from the Year 6 Emergency Medicine attachment (r = 0.361, P < 0.001) and the Written Examination in Year 6 (r = 0.178, P = 0.014). There was no significant effect of any individual method of assessment in medical school, gender or ethnicity on the overall combined score of performance of the junior doctor. Performance on integrated assessments from medical school is correlated to performance as a practicing physician as measured by the Junior Doctor Assessment Tool. These findings support the value of combining undergraduate assessment scores to assess competence and predict future performance.

Network Performance Measurements for NASA's Earth Observation System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Loiacono, Joe; Gormain, Andy; Smith, Jeff

2004-01-01

NASA's Earth Observation System (EOS) Project studies all aspects of planet Earth from space, including climate change, and ocean, ice, land, and vegetation characteristics. It consists of about 20 satellite missions over a period of about a decade. Extensive collaboration is used, both with other US. agencies (e.g., National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOA), United States Geological Survey (USGS), Department of Defense (DoD), and international agencies (e.g., European Space Agency (ESA), Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA)), to improve cost effectiveness and obtain otherwise unavailable data. Scientific researchers are located at research institutions worldwide, primarily government research facilities and research universities. The EOS project makes extensive use of networks to support data acquisition, data production, and data distribution. Many of these functions impose requirements on the networks, including throughput and availability. In order to verify that these requirements are being met, and be pro-active in recognizing problems, NASA conducts on-going performance measurements. The purpose of this paper is to examine techniques used by NASA to measure the performance of the networks used by EOSDIS (EOS Data and Information System) and to indicate how this performance information is used.

Reliability of Measurements Performed by Community-Drawn Anthropometrists from Rural Ethiopia

PubMed Central

Ayele, Berhan; Aemere, Abaineh; Gebre, Teshome; Tadesse, Zerihun; Stoller, Nicole E.; See, Craig W.; Yu, Sun N.; Gaynor, Bruce D.; McCulloch, Charles E.; Porco, Travis C.; Emerson, Paul M.; Lietman, Thomas M.; Keenan, Jeremy D.

2012-01-01

Background Undernutrition is an important risk factor for childhood mortality, and remains a major problem facing many developing countries. Millennium Development Goal 1 calls for a reduction in underweight children, implemented through a variety of interventions. To adequately judge the impact of these interventions, it is important to know the reproducibility of the main indicators for undernutrition. In this study, we trained individuals from rural communities in Ethiopia in anthropometry techniques and measured intra- and inter-observer reliability. Methods and Findings We trained 6 individuals without prior anthropometry experience to perform weight, height, and middle upper arm circumference (MUAC) measurements. Two anthropometry teams were dispatched to 18 communities in rural Ethiopia and measurements performed on all consenting pre-school children. Anthropometry teams performed a second independent measurement on a convenience sample of children in order to assess intra-anthropometrist reliability. Both teams measured the same children in 2 villages to assess inter-anthropometrist reliability. We calculated several metrics of measurement reproducibility, including the technical error of measurement (TEM) and relative TEM. In total, anthropometry teams performed measurements on 606 pre-school children, 84 of which had repeat measurements performed by the same team, and 89 of which had measurements performed by both teams. Intra-anthropometrist TEM (and relative TEM) were 0.35 cm (0.35%) for height, 0.05 kg (0.39%) for weight, and 0.18 cm (1.27%) for MUAC. Corresponding values for inter-anthropometrist reliability were 0.67 cm (0.75%) for height, 0.09 kg (0.79%) for weight, and 0.22 kg (1.53%) for MUAC. Inter-anthropometrist measurement error was greater for smaller children than for larger children. Conclusion Measurements of height and weight were more reproducible than measurements of MUAC and measurements of larger children were more reliable than those for smaller children. Community-drawn anthropometrists can provide reliable measurements that could be used to assess the impact of interventions for childhood undernutrition. PMID:22291939

Measuring more than we know? An examination of the motivational and situational influences in science achievement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haydel, Angela Michelle

The purpose of this dissertation was to advance theoretical understanding about fit between the personal resources of individuals and the characteristics of science achievement tasks. Testing continues to be pervasive in schools, yet we know little about how students perceive tests and what they think and feel while they are actually working on test items. This study focused on both the personal (cognitive and motivational) and situational factors that may contribute to individual differences in achievement-related outcomes. 387 eighth grade students first completed a survey including measures of science achievement goals, capability beliefs, efficacy related to multiple-choice items and performance assessments, validity beliefs about multiple-choice items and performance assessments, and other perceptions of these item formats. Students then completed science achievement tests including multiple-choice items and two performance assessments. A sample of students was asked to verbalize both thoughts and feelings as they worked through the test items. These think-alouds were transcribed and coded for evidence of cognitive, metacognitive and motivational engagement. Following each test, all students completed measures of effort, mood, energy level and strategy use during testing. Students reported that performance assessments were more challenging, authentic, interesting and valid than multiple-choice tests. They also believed that comparisons between students were easier using multiple-choice items. Overall, students tried harder, felt better, had higher levels of energy and used more strategies while working on performance assessments. Findings suggested that performance assessments might be more congruent with a mastery achievement goal orientation, while multiple-choice tests might be more congruent with a performance achievement goal orientation. A variable-centered analytic approach including regression analyses provided information about how students, on average, who differed in terms of their teachers' ratings of their science ability, achievement goals, capability beliefs and experiences with science achievement tasks perceived, engaged in, and performed on multiple-choice items and performance assessments. Person-centered analyses provided information about the perceptions, engagement and performance of subgroups of individuals who had different motivational characteristics. Generally, students' personal goals and capability beliefs related more strongly to test perceptions, but not performance, while teacher ratings of ability and test-specific beliefs related to performance.

Production and evaluation of measuring equipment for share viscosity of polymer melts included nanofiller with injection molding machine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kameda, Takao; Sugino, Naoto; Takei, Satoshi

2016-10-01

Shear viscosity measurement device was produced to evaluate the injection molding workability for high-performance resins. Observation was possible in shear rate from 10 to 10000 [1/sec] that were higher than rotary rheometer by measuring with a plasticization cylinder of the injection molding machine. The result of measurements extrapolated result of a measurement of the rotary rheometer.

Evaluation of the Timing Properties of a High Quantum Efficiency Photomultiplier Tube

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peng, Qiyu; Choong, Woon-Seng; Moses, W. William

2013-10-01

We measured the timing resolution of 189 R9800-100 photomultiplier tubes (PMTs), which are a SBA (Super Bialkali, high quantum efficiency) variant of the R9800 high-performance PMT manufactured by Hamamatsu Photonics, and correlated their timing resolutions with various measures of PMT performance, namely Cathode Luminous Sensitivity (CLS), Anode Luminous Sensitivity (ALS), Gain times Collection Efficiency (GCE), Cathode Blue Sensitivity Index (CBSI), Anode Blue Sensitivity Index (ABSI) and dark current. The correlation results show: (1) strong correlations between timing resolution and ALS, ABSI, and GCE; (2) moderate correlations between timing resolution and CBSI; and (3) weak or no correlations between timing resolution and dark current and CLS. The results disclosed that all three measures that include data collected from the anode (ALS, ABSI, and GCE) affect the timing resolution more than either of the two measures that only include photocathode data (CBSI and CLS). We conclude that: (1) the photocathode Quantum Efficiency (QE) and the product of the Gain and the Collection Efficiency (GCE) are the two dominant factors that affect the timing resolution, (2) the GCE variation affects the timing resolution more than the QE variation in the R9800 PMT, and (3) the performance depends on photocathode position.

Instruments to assess patients with rotator cuff pathology: a systematic review of measurement properties.

PubMed

Longo, Umile Giuseppe; Saris, Daniël; Poolman, Rudolf W; Berton, Alessandra; Denaro, Vincenzo

2012-10-01

The aims of this study were to obtain an overview of the methodological quality of studies on the measurement properties of rotator cuff questionnaires and to describe how well various aspects of the design and statistical analyses of studies on measurement properties are performed. A systematic review of published studies on the measurement properties of rotator cuff questionnaires was performed. Two investigators independently rated the quality of the studies using the Consensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments checklist. This checklist was developed in an international Delphi consensus study. Sixteen studies were included, in which two measurement instruments were evaluated, namely the Western Ontario Rotator Cuff Index and the Rotator Cuff Quality-of-Life Measure. The methodological quality of the included studies was adequate on some properties (construct validity, reliability, responsiveness, internal consistency, and translation) but need to be improved on other aspects. The most important methodological aspects that need to be developed are as follows: measurement error, content validity, structural validity, cross-cultural validity, criterion validity, and interpretability. Considering the importance of adequate measurement properties, it is concluded that, in the field of rotator cuff pathology, there is room for improvement in the methodological quality of studies measurement properties. II.

Client-centred assessment and the identification of meaningful treatment goals for individuals with a spinal cord injury

PubMed Central

Donnelly, Catherine; Eng, Janice J; Hall, Jill; Alford, Lindsay; Giachino, Rob; Norton, Kathy; Kerr, Debbie Scott

2011-01-01

Study Design Retrospective analysis. Objectives 1) describe the self-care, productivity and leisure problems identified by individuals with a spinal cord injury during rehabilitation, 2) describe the perceived level of satisfaction and performance with self-care, productivity and leisure activities following a spinal cord injury, 3) quantify the relationship between the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM), a client-centred, individualized measure of function, and the Functional Independence Measure (FIM). Setting Tertiary rehabilitation centre, spinal cord injury unit, GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre, Vancouver, Canada. Methods Health records from 41 individuals with a SCI admitted between 2000 and 2002 were reviewed. Information was obtained from assessments performed on admission and discharge. Self-care, productivity and leisure problems identified by individuals with a SCI were described and their perceived level of performance and satisfaction was calculated. The relationship between the COPM and the FIM was measured by the Pearson product correlation. Results Self-care goals were identified most frequently (79%) followed by productivity (12%) and leisure (9%) goals. The top three problems identified by individuals with a SCI were functional mobility (including transfers and wheelchair use), dressing and grooming. A fair relationship was found between the COPM and the FIM (r between .351 to .514, p<.05) Conclusions The results highlight the importance of including a client-centred outcome measure in the assessment of individual’s with a SCI. Initial support is provided for use of the COPM in individuals with a SCI. PMID:14993893

Story Processing Ability in Cognitively Healthy Younger and Older Adults

PubMed Central

Wright, Heather Harris; Capilouto, Gilson J.; Srinivasan, Cidambi; Fergadiotis, Gerasimos

2012-01-01

Purpose The purpose of the study was to examine the relationships among measures of comprehension and production for stories depicted in wordless pictures books and measures of memory and attention for 2 age groups. Method Sixty cognitively healthy adults participated. They consisted of two groups—young adults (20–29 years of age) and older adults (70–89 years of age). Participants completed cognitive measures and several discourse tasks; these included telling stories depicted in wordless picture books and answering multiple-choice comprehension questions pertaining to the story. Results The 2 groups did not differ significantly for proportion of story propositions conveyed; however, the younger group performed significantly better on the comprehension measure as compared with the older group. Only the older group demonstrated a statistically significant relationship between the story measures. Performance on the production and comprehension measures significantly correlated with performance on the cognitive measures for the older group but not for the younger group. Conclusions The relationship between adults’ comprehension of stimuli used to elicit narrative production samples and their narrative productions differed across the life span, suggesting that discourse processing performance changes in healthy aging. Finally, the study’s findings suggest that memory and attention contribute to older adults’ story processing performance. PMID:21106701

Performance of prioritized activities is not correlated with functional factors after grip reconstruction in tetraplegia.

PubMed

Wangdell, Johanna; Fridén, Jan

2011-06-01

To investigate the correlation between perceived performance in prioritized activities and physical conditions related to grip reconstruction. Retrospective clinical outcome study. Forty-seven individuals with tetraplegia were included in the study. Each participant underwent tendon transfer surgery in the hand between November 2002 and April 2009 and had a complete 1-year follow-up. Functional characteristics and performance data were collected from our database and medical records. Patients' perceived performances in prioritized activities were recorded using the Canadian Occupational Performance Measurement. Preoperative data included age at surgery, time since injury, severity of injury, sensibility and hand dominance. At 1-year follow-up, grip strength, key pinch strength, finger pulp-to-palm distance, distance between thumb and index finger and wrist flexion were measured. Correlation rank coefficient was used to test the possible relationship between physical data and activity performance. There were improvements in both functional factors and in rated performance of prioritized activities after surgery. There was no correlation between performance change and any of the physical functions, the factors known before surgery, or the functional outcome factors. No correlation exists between a single functional outcome parameter and the patients' perceived performance of their prioritized goals in reconstructive hand surgery in tetraplegia.

Measuring Quality in Special Libraries: Lessons from Service Marketing.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

White, Marilyn Domas; Abels, Eileen G.

1995-01-01

Surveys the service marketing literature for models and data-gathering instruments measuring service quality, particularly the instruments SERVQUAL and SERVPERF, and assesses their applicability to special libraries and information centers. Topics include service characteristics and definitions of service; performance-minus-expectations and…

Benchmarking, Total Quality Management, and Libraries.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shaughnessy, Thomas W.

1993-01-01

Discussion of the use of Total Quality Management (TQM) in higher education and academic libraries focuses on the identification, collection, and use of reliable data. Methods for measuring quality, including benchmarking, are described; performance measures are considered; and benchmarking techniques are examined. (11 references) (MES)

Development of a Situational Judgment Test as a Predictor of College Student Performance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Matošková, Jana; Kovárík, Martin

2017-01-01

It has been suggested that tacit knowledge may be a good predictor of performance in college. The purpose of this study was to investigate the extent to which a situational judgment test developed to measure tacit knowledge correlates with predictors and indicators of college performance. This situational judgment test includes eight situations…

Are Improvements in Measured Performance Driven by Better Treatment or "Denominator Management"?

PubMed

Harris, Alex H S; Chen, Cheng; Rubinsky, Anna D; Hoggatt, Katherine J; Neuman, Matthew; Vanneman, Megan E

2016-04-01

Process measures of healthcare quality are usually formulated as the number of patients who receive evidence-based treatment (numerator) divided by the number of patients in the target population (denominator). When the systems being evaluated can influence which patients are included in the denominator, it is reasonable to wonder if improvements in measured quality are driven by expanding numerators or contracting denominators. In 2003, the US Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) based executive compensation in part on performance on a substance use disorder (SUD) continuity-of-care quality measure. The first goal of this study was to evaluate if implementing the measure in this way resulted in expected improvements in measured performance. The second goal was to examine if the proportion of patients with SUD who qualified for the denominator contracted after the quality measure was implemented, and to describe the facility-level variation in and correlates of denominator contraction or expansion. Using 40 quarters of data straddling the implementation of the performance measure, an interrupted time series design was used to evaluate changes in two outcomes. All veterans with an SUD diagnosis in all VA facilities from fiscal year 2000 to 2009. The two outcomes were 1) measured performance-patients retained/patients qualified and 2) denominator prevalence-patients qualified/patients with SUD program contact. Measured performance improved over time (P < 0.001). Notably, the proportion of patients with SUD program contact who qualified for the denominator decreased more rapidly after the measure was implemented (p = 0.02). Facilities with higher pre-implementation denominator prevalence had steeper declines in denominator prevalence after implementation (p < 0.001). These results should motivate the development of measures that are less vulnerable to denominator management, and also the exploration of "shadow measures" to monitor and reduce undesirable denominator management.

FBI fingerprint identification automation study. AIDS 3 evaluation report. Volume 4: Economic feasibility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mulhall, B. D. L.

1980-01-01

The results of the economic analysis of the AIDS 3 system design are presented. AIDS 3 evaluated a set of economic feasibility measures including life cycle cost, implementation cost, annual operating expenditures and annual capital expenditures. The economic feasibility of AIDS 3 was determined by comparing the evaluated measures with the same measures, where applicable, evaluated for the current system. A set of future work load scenarios was constructed using JPL's environmental evaluation study of the fingerprint identification system. AIDS 3 and the current system were evaluated for each of the economic feasibility measures for each of the work load scenarios. They were compared for a set of performance measures, including response time and accuracy, and for a set of cost/benefit ratios, including cost per transaction and cost per technical search. Benefit measures related to the economic feasibility of the system are also presented, including the required number of employees and the required employee skill mix.

Evaluating performance in sweat testing in medical biochemistry laboratories in Croatia.

PubMed

Aralica, Merica; Krleza, Jasna Lenicek

2017-02-15

Sweat test has a diagnostic role in evaluation of cystic fibrosis. Its performance includes sweat stimulation, collection and analysis. All listed may be sources of inconsistencies in everyday practice. The aim of this study was an evaluation of external quality assessment (EQA) of sweat chloride measurement including sweat test performance in medical biochemistry laboratories in Croatia. EQA for sweat chloride measurement was provided by Croatian Centre for Quality Assessment in Laboratory Medicine (CROQALM) in five consecutive exercises to medical biochemistry laboratories (MBL) that offered sweat testing. A questionnaire regarding all phases of testing was mailed to involved MBL (N = 10). Survey results were compared to current guidelines for sweat test performance. Reported results of EQA in 2015 exercises showed coefficients of variation (CV) from 28.9%, 29.0% to 35.3%, respectively. An introduction of uniform sweat chloride measurement protocol resulted in CV of 15.5% and 14.7% reported in following two exercises in 2016. All MBL included in this study replied to the questionnaire. Results reported by MBL indicated: lack of patient information policy (7/10), use of unacceptable electrodes (6/9), misuse of minimum of acceptable sweat weight (6/9), lack of internal quality assessment (5/9) and recommended reference ranges (5/9 and 4/9). Agreements to guidelines were found in approach to unsuitable patients (9/10) and sweat collection (8/9). Presented results indicate major weak points of current practice in sweat test performance in Croatian MBL and stress the need for its standardization on a national level.

Evaluating performance in sweat testing in medical biochemistry laboratories in Croatia

PubMed Central

Aralica, Merica; Krleza, Jasna Lenicek

2017-01-01

Introduction Sweat test has a diagnostic role in evaluation of cystic fibrosis. Its performance includes sweat stimulation, collection and analysis. All listed may be sources of inconsistencies in everyday practice. The aim of this study was an evaluation of external quality assessment (EQA) of sweat chloride measurement including sweat test performance in medical biochemistry laboratories in Croatia. Materials and methods EQA for sweat chloride measurement was provided by Croatian Centre for Quality Assessment in Laboratory Medicine (CROQALM) in five consecutive exercises to medical biochemistry laboratories (MBL) that offered sweat testing. A questionnaire regarding all phases of testing was mailed to involved MBL (N = 10). Survey results were compared to current guidelines for sweat test performance. Results Reported results of EQA in 2015 exercises showed coefficients of variation (CV) from 28.9%, 29.0% to 35.3%, respectively. An introduction of uniform sweat chloride measurement protocol resulted in CV of 15.5% and 14.7% reported in following two exercises in 2016. All MBL included in this study replied to the questionnaire. Results reported by MBL indicated: lack of patient information policy (7/10), use of unacceptable electrodes (6/9), misuse of minimum of acceptable sweat weight (6/9), lack of internal quality assessment (5/9) and recommended reference ranges (5/9 and 4/9). Agreements to guidelines were found in approach to unsuitable patients (9/10) and sweat collection (8/9). Conclusion Presented results indicate major weak points of current practice in sweat test performance in Croatian MBL and stress the need for its standardization on a national level. PMID:28392735

Structural Features of Algebraic Quantum Notations

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gire, Elizabeth; Price, Edward

2015-01-01

The formalism of quantum mechanics includes a rich collection of representations for describing quantum systems, including functions, graphs, matrices, histograms of probabilities, and Dirac notation. The varied features of these representations affect how computations are performed. For example, identifying probabilities of measurement outcomes…

A comparative analysis of functional outcomes in adolescents and young adults with lower-extremity bone sarcoma.

PubMed

Ginsberg, Jill P; Rai, Shesh N; Carlson, Claire A; Meadows, Anna T; Hinds, Pamela S; Spearing, Elena M; Zhang, Lijun; Callaway, Lulie; Neel, Michael D; Rao, Bhaskar N; Marchese, Victoria G

2007-12-01

Comparison of functional mobility and quality of life is performed in patients with lower-extremity bone sarcoma following either amputation, limb-sparing surgery, or rotationplasty with four different types of outcome measures: (1) an objective functional mobility measure that requires patients to physically perform specific tasks, functional mobility assessment (FMA); (2) a clinician administered tool, Musculoskeletal Tumor Society Scale (MSTS); (3) a patient questionnaire, Toronto Extremity Salvage Scale (TESS); and (4) a health-related quality of life (HRQL) measure, Short Form-36 version 2 (SF-36v.2). This is a prospective multi-site study including 91 patients with lower-extremity bone sarcoma following amputation, limb-sparing surgery, or rotationplasty. One of three physical therapists administered the quality of life measure (SF-36v.2) as well as a battery of functional measures (FMA, MSTS, and TESS). Differences between patients who had amputation, limb-sparing surgery, or rotationplasty were consistently demonstrated by the FMA. Patients with limb sparing femur surgery performed better than those patients with an above the knee amputation but similarly to a small number of rotationplasty patients. Several of the more conventional self-report measures were shown to not have the discriminative capabilities of the FMA in these cohorts. In adolescents with lower-extremity bone sarcoma, it may be advantageous to consider the use of a combination of outcome measures, including the FMA, for objective functional mobility assessment along with the TESS for a subjective measure of disability and the SF-36v.2 for a quality-of-life measure. 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc

New Developments in Observer Performance Methodology in Medical Imaging

PubMed Central

Chakraborty, Dev P.

2011-01-01

A common task in medical imaging is assessing whether a new imaging system, or a variant of an existing one, is an improvement over an existing imaging technology. Imaging systems are generally quite complex, consisting of several components – e.g., image acquisition hardware, image processing and display hardware and software, and image interpretation by radiologists– each of which can affect performance. While it may appear odd to include the radiologist as a “component” of the imaging chain, since the radiologist’s decision determines subsequent patient care, the effect of the human interpretation has to be included. Physical measurements like modulation transfer function, signal to noise ratio, etc., are useful for characterizing the non-human parts of the imaging chain under idealized and often unrealistic conditions, such as uniform background phantoms, target objects with sharp edges, etc. Measuring the effect on performance of the entire imaging chain, including the radiologist, and using real clinical images, requires different methods that fall under the rubric of observer performance methods or “ROC analysis”. The purpose of this paper is to review recent developments in this field, particularly with respect to the free-response method. PMID:21978444

77 FR 16213 - Proposed Information Collection; Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-03-20

... ensure that requested data can be provided in the desired format, reporting burden (time and financial... align with upcoming standard performance measure requirements. To separate the currently combined Grant... performance of the functions of the Corporation, including whether the information will have practical utility...

78 FR 52910 - Proposed Information Collection; Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-08-27

... be provided in the desired format, reporting burden (time and financial resources) is minimized... performance measures. Copies of the information collection request can be obtained by contacting the office... information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of CNCS, including whether the...

Long-Term Pavement Performance Program determination of in-place elastic layer modulus : backcalculation methodology and procedures.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-12-01

Deflection data have been measured at periodic intervals with a falling weight deflectometer on all rigid, flexible, semirigid, : and rehabilitated pavement test sections included in the Long-Term Pavement Performance (LTPP) program. A : common use o...

Marine Engine Mechanics. Performance Objectives. Intermediate Course.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jones, Marion

Several intermediate performance objectives and corresponding criterion measures are presented for each of ten terminal objectives for a two-semester course (3 hours daily). This 540-hour intermediate course includes advanced troubleshooting techniques on outboard marine engines, inboard-outboard marine engines, inboard marine engines, boat…

34 CFR 645.32 - How does the Secretary evaluate prior experience?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... performance under its expiring Upward Bound grant. This information includes information derived from annual performance reports, audit reports, site visit reports, project evaluation reports, and any other verifiable... project participants have demonstrated improvement in academic skills and competencies as measured by...

Exploratory studies of the cruise performance of upper surface blown configurations: Program analysis and conclusions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Braden, J. A.; Hancock, J. P.; Hackett, J. E.; Lyman, V.

1979-01-01

The experimental data encompassing surface pressure measurements, and wake surveys at static and wind-on conditions are analyzed. Cruise performance trends reflecting nacelle geometric variations, and nozzle operating conditions are presented. Details of the modeling process are included.

Ion Channel Conductance Measurements on a Silicon-Based Platform

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-01-01

calculated using the molecular dynamics code, GROMACS . Reasonable agreement is obtained in the simulated versus measured conductance over the range of...measurements of the lipid giga-seal characteristics have been performed, including AC conductance measurements and statistical analysis in order to...Dynamics kernel self-consistently coupled to Poisson equations using a P3M force field scheme and the GROMACS description of protein structure and

Case-mix adjustment and the comparison of community health center performance on patient experience measures.

PubMed

Johnson, M Laura; Rodriguez, Hector P; Solorio, M Rosa

2010-06-01

To assess the effect of case-mix adjustment on community health center (CHC) performance on patient experience measures. A Medicaid-managed care plan in Washington State collected patient survey data from 33 CHCs over three fiscal quarters during 2007-2008. The survey included three composite patient experience measures (6-month reports) and two overall ratings of care. The analytic sample includes 2,247 adult patients and 2,859 adults reporting for child patients. We compared the relative importance of patient case-mix adjusters by calculating each adjuster's predictive power and variability across CHCs. We then evaluated the impact of case-mix adjustment on the relative ranking of CHCs. Important case-mix adjusters included adult self-reported health status or parent-reported child health status, adult age, and educational attainment. The effects of case-mix adjustment on patient reports and ratings were different in the adult and child samples. Adjusting for race/ethnicity and language had a greater impact on parent reports than adult reports, but it impacted ratings similarly across the samples. The impact of adjustment on composites and ratings was modest, but it affected the relative ranking of CHCs. To ensure equitable comparison of CHC performance on patient experience measures, reports and ratings should be adjusted for adult self-reported health status or parent-reported child health status, adult age, education, race/ethnicity, and survey language. Because of the differential impact of case-mix adjusters for child and adult surveys, initiatives should consider measuring and reporting adult and child scores separately.

Parameters and Measures in Assessment of Motor Learning in Neurorehabilitation; A Systematic Review of the Literature

PubMed Central

Shishov, Nataliya; Melzer, Itshak; Bar-Haim, Simona

2017-01-01

Upper limb function, essential for daily life, is often impaired in individuals after stroke and cerebral palsy (CP). For an improved upper limb function, learning should occur, and therefore training with motor learning principles is included in many rehabilitation interventions. Despite accurate measurement being an important aspect for examination and optimization of treatment outcomes, there are no standard algorithms for outcome measures selection. Moreover, the ability of the chosen measures to identify learning is not well established. We aimed to review and categorize the parameters and measures utilized for identification of motor learning in stroke and CP populations. PubMed, Pedro, and Web of Science databases were systematically searched between January 2000 and March 2016 for studies assessing a form of motor learning following upper extremity training using motor control measures. Thirty-two studies in persons after stroke and 10 studies in CP of any methodological quality were included. Identified outcome measures were sorted into two categories, “parameters,” defined as identifying a form of learning, and “measures,” as tools measuring the parameter. Review's results were organized as a narrative synthesis focusing on the outcome measures. The included studies were heterogeneous in their study designs, parameters and measures. Parameters included adaptation (n = 6), anticipatory control (n = 2), after-effects (n = 3), de-adaptation (n = 4), performance (n = 24), acquisition (n = 8), retention (n = 8), and transfer (n = 14). Despite motor learning theory's emphasis on long-lasting changes and generalization, the majority of studies did not assess the retention and transfer parameters. Underlying measures included kinematic analyses in terms of speed, geometry or both (n = 39), dynamic metrics, measures of accuracy, consistency, and coordination. There is no exclusivity of measures to a specific parameter. Many factors affect task performance and the ability to measure it—necessitating the use of several metrics to examine different features of movement and learning. Motor learning measures' applicability to clinical setting can benefit from a treatment-focused approach, currently lacking. The complexity of motor learning results in various metrics, utilized to assess its occurrence, making it difficult to synthesize findings across studies. Further research is desirable for development of an outcome measures selection algorithm, while considering the quality of such measurements. PMID:28286474

Performance of the Primary Mirror Center-of-Curvature Optical Metrology System during Cryogenic Testing of the JWST Pathfinder Telescope

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hadaway, James B.; Wells, Conrad; Olczak, Gene; Waldman, Mark; Whitman, Tony; Cosentino, Joseph; Connolly, Mark; Chaney, David; Telfer, Randal

2016-01-01

The JWST primary mirror consists of 18 1.5 m hexagonal segments, each with 6-DoF and RoC adjustment. The telescope will be tested at its cryogenic operating temperature at Johnson Space Center. The testing will include center-of-curvature measurements of the PM, using the Center-of-Curvature Optical Assembly (COCOA) and the Absolute Distance Meter Assembly (ADMA). The performance of these metrology systems, including hardware, software, procedures, was assessed during two cryogenic tests at JSC, using the JWST Pathfinder telescope. This paper describes the test setup, the testing performed, and the resulting metrology system performance.

Cistern and planter box monitoring in Camden, NJ revisited ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

The Camden County Municipal Utilities Authority installed green infrastructure Stormwater Control Measures at multiple locations around the city of Camden, NJ. The Stormwater Control Measures include raised downspout planter boxes and cisterns. EPA is monitoring a subset of the locations to document the performance of individual Stormwater Control Measures. The selected monitoring sites include two sets of raised downspout planter boxes and five cisterns. These Stormwater Control Measures are being monitored: to investigate their hydrologic performances, to document water consumption patterns of cisterns for a better understanding of the supply and demand relationship, and to analyze cistern water quality. The continuous electronic monitoring devices included time domain reflectometers, rain gauges and pressure transducers. EPA decided to monitor these Stormwater Control Measures for three years and second year monitoring is ongoing. Monitoring data present the internal water flow patterns and media saturation frequency of the raised planter boxes and the capture ratio, water use patterns and water quality analysis of cisterns. Second year monitoring shows larger capture ratio for cisterns compared to the first year data and higher metal concentration at one site. The high metal concentration was later resolved by flushing the cistern and resampling. The presentation will summarize the comparison between first and second year data, providing results from the

Typical Intellectual Engagement, Big Five Personality Traits, Approaches to Learning and Cognitive Ability Predictors of Academic Performance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Furnham, Adrian; Monsen, Jeremy; Ahmetoglu, Gorkan

2009-01-01

Background: Both ability (measured by power tests) and non-ability (measured by preference tests) individual difference measures predict academic school outcomes. These include fluid as well as crystalized intelligence, personality traits, and learning styles. This paper examines the incremental validity of five psychometric tests and the sex and…

34 CFR 403.202 - What must each State's system of core standards and measures of performance include?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... academic skills; (2) One or more measures of the following: (i) Student competency attainment. (ii) Job or... skills in the industry the student is preparing to enter. (iii) Retention in school or completion of... appropriate, for consistency with— (1) Standards and measures developed under job opportunities and basic...

Using Alternative Student Growth Measures for Evaluating Teacher Performance: What the Literature Says. REL 2013-002

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gill, Brian; Bruch, Julie; Booker, Kevin

2013-01-01

States are increasingly interested in including measures of student achievement growth, or "value- added," in evaluating teachers. Annual state assessments, however, which are the typical measure of student growth, usually cover only reading and math teachers and only in grades 4-8. These state assessments thus cannot …

Building and measuring a high performance network architecture

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

Kramer, William T.C.; Toole, Timothy; Fisher, Chuck

2001-04-20

Once a year, the SC conferences present a unique opportunity to create and build one of the most complex and highest performance networks in the world. At SC2000, large-scale and complex local and wide area networking connections were demonstrated, including large-scale distributed applications running on different architectures. This project was designed to use the unique opportunity presented at SC2000 to create a testbed network environment and then use that network to demonstrate and evaluate high performance computational and communication applications. This testbed was designed to incorporate many interoperable systems and services and was designed for measurement from the very beginning.more » The end results were key insights into how to use novel, high performance networking technologies and to accumulate measurements that will give insights into the networks of the future.« less

Generalized variables for controlling Government Transfer Services with respect to performance measures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, F. D.

1981-01-01

The term Government Transfer Services is used in reference to any of the organized streams of public resources that flow into private economic activity. This includes such activities as offshore leasing, Social Security, and NASA technology transfer services. This paper describes a performance measure, empirical results, a theory, and a control model for such services. These are illustrated by a specific example (NASA). An agenda for developing this service control method is also presented.

Importance of Performance Measurement and MCH Epidemiology Leadership to Quality Improvement Initiatives at the National, State and Local Levels

PubMed Central

Rankin, Kristin M.; Gavin, Loretta; Moran, John W.; Kroelinger, Charlan D.; Vladutiu, Catherine J.; Goodman, David A.; Sappenfield, William M.

2018-01-01

Purpose In recognition of the importance of performance measurement and MCH epidemiology leadership to quality improvement (QI) efforts, a plenary session dedicated to this topic was presented at the 2014 CityMatCH Leadership and MCH Epidemiology Conference. This paper summarizes the session and provides two applications of performance measurement to QI in MCH. Description Performance measures addressing processes of care are ubiquitous in the current health system landscape and the MCH community is increasingly applying QI processes, such as Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles, to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of systems impacting MCH populations. QI is maximally effective when well-defined performance measures are used to monitor change. Assessment MCH epidemiologists provide leadership to QI initiatives by identifying population-based outcomes that would benefit from QI, defining and implementing performance measures, assessing and improving data quality and timeliness, reporting variability in measures throughout PDSA cycles, evaluating QI initiative impact, and translating findings to stakeholders. MCH epidemiologists can also ensure that QI initiatives are aligned with MCH priorities at the local, state and federal levels. Two examples of this work, one highlighting use of a contraceptive service performance measure and another describing QI for peripartum hemorrhage prevention, demonstrate MCH epidemiologists’ contributions throughout. Challenges remain in applying QI to complex community and systems-level interventions, including those aimed at improving access to quality care. Conclusion MCH epidemiologists provide leadership to QI initiatives by ensuring they are data-informed and supportive of a common MCH agenda, thereby optimizing the potential to improve MCH outcomes. PMID:27423235

Importance of Performance Measurement and MCH Epidemiology Leadership to Quality Improvement Initiatives at the National, State and Local Levels.

PubMed

Rankin, Kristin M; Gavin, Loretta; Moran, John W; Kroelinger, Charlan D; Vladutiu, Catherine J; Goodman, David A; Sappenfield, William M

2016-11-01

Purpose In recognition of the importance of performance measurement and MCH epidemiology leadership to quality improvement (QI) efforts, a plenary session dedicated to this topic was presented at the 2014 CityMatCH Leadership and MCH Epidemiology Conference. This paper summarizes the session and provides two applications of performance measurement to QI in MCH. Description Performance measures addressing processes of care are ubiquitous in the current health system landscape and the MCH community is increasingly applying QI processes, such as Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles, to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of systems impacting MCH populations. QI is maximally effective when well-defined performance measures are used to monitor change. Assessment MCH epidemiologists provide leadership to QI initiatives by identifying population-based outcomes that would benefit from QI, defining and implementing performance measures, assessing and improving data quality and timeliness, reporting variability in measures throughout PDSA cycles, evaluating QI initiative impact, and translating findings to stakeholders. MCH epidemiologists can also ensure that QI initiatives are aligned with MCH priorities at the local, state and federal levels. Two examples of this work, one highlighting use of a contraceptive service performance measure and another describing QI for peripartum hemorrhage prevention, demonstrate MCH epidemiologists' contributions throughout. Challenges remain in applying QI to complex community and systems-level interventions, including those aimed at improving access to quality care. Conclusion MCH epidemiologists provide leadership to QI initiatives by ensuring they are data-informed and supportive of a common MCH agenda, thereby optimizing the potential to improve MCH outcomes.

Large/Complex Antenna Performance Validation for Spaceborne Radar/Radiometeric Instruments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Focardi, Paolo; Harrell, Jefferson; Vacchione, Joseph

2013-01-01

Over the past decade, Earth observing missions which employ spaceborne combined radar & radiometric instruments have been developed and implemented. These instruments include the use of large and complex deployable antennas whose radiation characteristics need to be accurately determined over 4 pisteradians. Given the size and complexity of these antennas, the performance of the flight units cannot be readily measured. In addition, the radiation performance is impacted by the presence of the instrument's service platform which cannot easily be included in any measurement campaign. In order to meet the system performance knowledge requirements, a two pronged approach has been employed. The first is to use modeling tools to characterize the system and the second is to build a scale model of the system and use RF measurements to validate the results of the modeling tools. This paper demonstrates the resulting level of agreement between scale model and numerical modeling for two recent missions: (1) the earlier Aquarius instrument currently in Earth orbit and (2) the upcoming Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP) mission. The results from two modeling approaches, Ansoft's High Frequency Structure Simulator (HFSS) and TICRA's General RF Applications Software Package (GRASP), were compared with measurements of approximately 1/10th scale models of the Aquarius and SMAP systems. Generally good agreement was found between the three methods but each approach had its shortcomings as will be detailed in this paper.

S-NPP VIIRS thermal emissive bands on-orbit calibration and performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Efremova, Boryana; McIntire, Jeff; Moyer, David; Wu, Aisheng; Xiong, Xiaoxiong

2014-09-01

Presented is an assessment of the on-orbit radiometric performance of the thermal emissive bands (TEB) of the Suomi National Polar-orbiting Partnership (S-NPP) Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) instrument based on data from the first 2 years of operations—from 20 January 2012 to 20 January 2014. The VIIRS TEB are calibrated on orbit using a V-grooved blackbody (BB) as a radiance source. Performance characteristics trended over the life of the mission include the F factor—a measure of the gain change of the TEB detectors; the Noise Equivalent differential Temperature (NEdT)—a measure of the detector noise; and the detector offset and nonlinear terms trended at the quarterly performed BB warm-up cool-down cycles. We find that the BB temperature is well controlled and stable within the 30mK requirement. The F factor trends are very stable and showing little degradation (within 0.8%). The offsets and nonlinearity terms are also without noticeable drifts. NEdT is stable and does not show any trend. Other TEB radiometric calibration-related activities discussed include the on-orbit assessment of the response versus scan-angle functions and an approach to improve the M13 low-gain calibration using onboard lunar measurements. We conclude that all the assessed parameters comply with the requirements, and the TEB provide radiometric measurements with the required accuracy.

Exploring the relationships among performance-based functional ability, self-rated disability, perceived instrumental support, and depression: a structural equation model analysis.

PubMed

Weil, Joyce; Hutchinson, Susan R; Traxler, Karen

2014-11-01

Data from the Women's Health and Aging Study were used to test a model of factors explaining depressive symptomology. The primary purpose of the study was to explore the association between performance-based measures of functional ability and depression and to examine the role of self-rated physical difficulties and perceived instrumental support in mediating the relationship between performance-based functioning and depression. The inclusion of performance-based measures allows for the testing of functional ability as a clinical precursor to disability and depression: a critical, but rarely examined, association in the disablement process. Structural equation modeling supported the overall fit of the model and found an indirect relationship between performance-based functioning and depression, with perceived physical difficulties serving as a significant mediator. Our results highlight the complementary nature of performance-based and self-rated measures and the importance of including perception of self-rated physical difficulties when examining depression in older persons. © The Author(s) 2014.

Age differences in the performance of basketball dribbling by elementary school boys.

PubMed

Caterino, M C

1991-08-01

Age differences in hand contact time and ball-to-floor distance during the performance of a basketball dribbling task by 30 5- to 6-, 7- to 8-, and 9- to 10-yr.-old boys were studied. Each age group included 10 boys, five with high rhythm audiation skill and five with low rhythm audiation skill, as measured on Gordon's Primary or Intermediate Measures of Music Audiation. Performance during eight bounces was filmed with a 16-mm camera and analyzed with a stop-action projector. Analysis of variance indicated no statistically significant differences. Observed dribbling behaviors are discussed.

Verifying the Performance of RTDs in Nuclear Power Plants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hashemian, H. M.

2003-09-01

This paper describes a number of techniques that have been developed for nuclear power plants to ensure that optimum steady-state and transient performance is achieved with the resistance temperature detectors (RTDs) that are used in the plant for critical temperature measurements. This includes precision laboratory calibration of RTDs, the Loop Current Step Response (LCSR) method for in-situ response time measurements, a cross calibration technique to verify the steady-state performance of RTDs as installed in the plant, and the Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) test that is used to identify the location of a problem along RTD cables.

On the Performance Evaluation of 3D Reconstruction Techniques from a Sequence of Images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eid, Ahmed; Farag, Aly

2005-12-01

The performance evaluation of 3D reconstruction techniques is not a simple problem to solve. This is not only due to the increased dimensionality of the problem but also due to the lack of standardized and widely accepted testing methodologies. This paper presents a unified framework for the performance evaluation of different 3D reconstruction techniques. This framework includes a general problem formalization, different measuring criteria, and a classification method as a first step in standardizing the evaluation process. Performance characterization of two standard 3D reconstruction techniques, stereo and space carving, is also presented. The evaluation is performed on the same data set using an image reprojection testing methodology to reduce the dimensionality of the evaluation domain. Also, different measuring strategies are presented and applied to the stereo and space carving techniques. These measuring strategies have shown consistent results in quantifying the performance of these techniques. Additional experiments are performed on the space carving technique to study the effect of the number of input images and the camera pose on its performance.

Effect of different warm-up procedures on the performance of resistance training exercises.

PubMed

Ribeiro, Alex S; Romanzini, Marcelo; Schoenfeld, Brad J; Souza, Mariana F; Avelar, Ademar; Cyrino, Edilson S

2014-08-01

Warm-up has been shown to mediate numerous acute physiological alterations that have been purported to confer beneficial effects on performance. This study investigated the acute effects of different warm-up procedures on resistance training performance. Employing a randomized, counterbalanced crossover design, 15 men performed 3 exercises (4 sets of bench press, squat, and arm curl at 80% of 1RM) to failure in 4 conditions (control, specific, aerobic, and combined). Outcome measures included the sum of repetitions and a fatigue index measuring the decline between sets. There was no significant difference for the sum of repetitions or for fatigue index among conditions for the 3 exercises. Performance in the resistance training exercises was not influenced by warm-up.

The Tire Noise Performance of Nevada Highway Pavements: On-Board Sound Intensity (OBSI) Measurement

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2008-06-01

On Board Sound Intensity measurements were conducted on freeway segments in the vicinity of Las Vegas and Reno, Nevada in an effort to document the tire-pavement noise levels of existing pavements. Tested pavements included Portland Cement Concrete (...

A Comparison of Modeled Pollutant Profiles With MOZAIC Aircraft Measurements

EPA Science Inventory

In this study, we use measurements performed under the MOZAIC program to evaluate vertical profiles of meteorological parameters, CO, and ozone that were simulated for the year 2006 with several versions of the WRF/CMAQ modeling system. Model updates, including WRF nudging strate...

FIELD PERFORMANCE OF WOODBURNING STOVES IN CRESTED BUTTE, COLORADO

EPA Science Inventory

The paper discusses field emissions from woodstoves measured in Crested Butte, Colorado, during the winters of 1988-89 and 1989-90. Both particulate matter and carbon monoxide emissions were measured. The database from this work is large, including conventional stoves and EPA-cer...

Measuring the ROI on Knowledge Management Systems.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wickhorst, Vickie

2002-01-01

Defines knowledge management and corporate portals and provides a model that can be applied to assessing return on investment (ROI) for a knowledge management solution. Highlights include leveraging knowledge in an organization; assessing the value of human capital; and the Intellectual Capital Performance Measurement Model. (LRW)

Multiphase Method for Analysing Online Discussions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Häkkinen, P.

2013-01-01

Several studies have analysed and assessed online performance and discourse using quantitative and qualitative methods. Quantitative measures have typically included the analysis of participation rates and learning outcomes in terms of grades. Qualitative measures of postings, discussions and context features aim to give insights into the nature…

Evaluation of the measurement properties of self-reported health-related work-functioning instruments among workers with common mental disorders.

PubMed

Abma, Femke I; van der Klink, Jac J L; Terwee, Caroline B; Amick, Benjamin C; Bültmann, Ute

2012-01-01

During the past decade, common mental disorders (CMD) have emerged as a major public and occupational health problem in many countries. Several instruments have been developed to measure the influence of health on functioning at work. To select appropriate instruments for use in occupational health practice and research, the measurement properties (eg, reliability, validity, responsiveness) must be evaluated. The objective of this study is to appraise critically and compare the measurement properties of self-reported health-related work-functioning instruments among workers with CMD. A systematic review was performed searching three electronic databases. Papers were included that: (i) mainly focused on the development and/or evaluation of the measurement properties of a self-reported health-related work-functioning instrument; (ii) were conducted in a CMD population; and (iii) were fulltext original papers. Quality appraisal was performed using the consensus-based standards for the selection of health status measurement instruments (COSMIN) checklist. Five papers evaluating measurement properties of five self-reported health-related work-functioning instruments in CMD populations were included. There is little evidence available for the measurement properties of the identified instruments in this population, mainly due to low methodological quality of the included studies. The available evidence on measurement properties is based on studies of poor-to-fair methodological quality. Information on a number of measurement properties, such as measurement error, content validity, and cross-cultural validity is still lacking. Therefore, no evidence-based decisions and recommendations can be made for the use of health-related work functioning instruments. Studies of high methodological quality are needed to properly assess the existing instruments' measurement properties.

Wind Tunnel Measured Effects on a Twin-Engine Short-Haul Transport Caused by Simulated Ice Accretions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reehorst, Andrew; Potapczuk, Mark; Ratvasky, Thomas; Laflin, Brenda Gile

1996-01-01

A series of wind tunnel tests were conducted to assess the effects of leading edge ice contamination upon the performance of a short-haul transport. The wind tunnel test was conducted in the NASA Langley 14 by 22 foot facility. The test article was a 1/8 scale twin-engine short-haul jet transport model. Two separate leading edge ice contamination configurations were tested in addition to the uncontaminated baseline configuration. Several aircraft configurations were examined including various flap and slat deflections, with and without landing gear. Data gathered included force measurements via an internal six-component force balance, pressure measurements through 700 electronically scanned wing pressure ports, and wing surface flow visualization measurements. The artificial ice contamination caused significant performance degradation and caused visible changes demonstrated by the flow visualization. The data presented here is just a portion of the data gathered. A more complete data report is planned for publication as a NASA Technical Memorandum and data supplement.

Far-Field Plume Measurements of a Nested-Channel Hall-Effect Thruster (PREPRINT)

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-12-13

nude Faraday probe, retarding potential analyzer, and ExB probe. Data from these probes were used to calculate utilization efficiencies from existing...USA Far-field plume measurements were performed on the X2 nested-channel Hall-effect thruster using an ar- ray of diagnostics, including a nude Faraday...mode to nested-channel mode by utilizing a traditional array of far-field diagnostics, which include a nude Faraday probe, retarding potential analyzer

Trunk Muscle Attributes are Associated with Balance and Mobility in Older Adults: A Pilot Study

PubMed Central

Suri, Pradeep; Kiely, Dan K.; Leveille, Suzanne G.; Frontera, Walter R.; Bean, Jonathan. F.

2010-01-01

Objective To determine if trunk muscle attributes are associated with balance and mobility performance among mobility-limited older adults. Design Cross-sectional analysis of data from a randomized clinical trial. Setting Outpatient rehabilitation research center. Participants Community-dwelling older adults (N=70; mean age 75.9 y) with mobility limitations as defined by the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). Methods Independent variables included physiologic measures of trunk extension strength, trunk flexion strength, trunk extension endurance, trunk extension endurance and leg press strength. All measures were well tolerated by the study subjects without the occurrence of any associated injuries or adverse events. The association of each physiologic measure with each outcome was examined, using separate multivariate models to calculate the partial variance (R2) of each trunk and extremity measure. Main Outcome Measurements Balance measured by the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Unipedal Stance Test (UST), and mobility performance as measured by the SPPB. Results Trunk extension endurance (partial R2=.14, p=.02), and leg press strength (partial R2=.14, p=.003) accounted for the greatest amount of the variance in SPPB performance. Trunk extension endurance (partial R2=.17, p=.007), accounted for the greatest amount of the variance in BBS performance. Trunk extension strength (R2=.09, p=.03), accounted for the greatest amount of the variance in UST performance. The variance explained by trunk extension endurance equaled or exceeded the variance explained by limb strength across all three performance outcomes. Conclusions Trunk endurance and strength can be safely measured in mobility-limited older adults, and are associated with both balance and mobility performance. Trunk endurance and trunk strength are physiologic attributes worthy of targeting in the rehabilitative care of mobility-limited older adults. PMID:19854420

Parameter Trade Studies For Coherent Lidar Wind Measurements of Wind from Space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kavaya, Michael J.; Frehlich, Rod G.

2007-01-01

The design of an orbiting wind profiling lidar requires selection of dozens of lidar, measurement scenario, and mission geometry parameters; in addition to prediction of atmospheric parameters. Typical mission designs do not include a thorough trade optimization of all of these parameters. We report here the integration of a recently published parameterization of coherent lidar wind velocity measurement performance with an orbiting coherent wind lidar computer simulation; and the use of these combined tools to perform some preliminary parameter trades. We use the 2006 NASA Global Wind Observing Sounder mission design as the starting point for the trades.

Performance of a quasi-steady, multi megawatt, coaxial plasma thruster

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Scheuer, Jay T.; Schoenberg, Kurt F.; Henins, Ivars; Gerwin, Richard A.; Moses, Ronald W., Jr.; Garcia, Jose A.; Gribble, Robert F.; Hoyt, Robert P.; Black, Dorwin C.; Mayo, Robert M.

1994-01-01

The Los Alamos National Laboratory Coaxial Thruster Experiment (CTX) has been upgraded to enable the quasisteady operation of magnetoplasmadynamic (MPD) type thrusters at power levels from 2 to 40 MW for 10 ms. Diagnostics include an eight position, three axis magnetic field probe to measure magnetic field fluctuations during the pulse; a triple Langmuir probe to measure ion density, electron temperature, and plasma potential; and a time-of-flight neutral particle spectrometer to measure specific impulse. Here we report on the experimental observations and associated analysis and interpretation of long-pulse, quasisteady, coaxial thruster performance in the CTX device.

A general method for assessing brain-computer interface performance and its limitations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hill, N. Jeremy; Häuser, Ann-Katrin; Schalk, Gerwin

2014-04-01

Objective. When researchers evaluate brain-computer interface (BCI) systems, we want quantitative answers to questions such as: How good is the system’s performance? How good does it need to be? and: Is it capable of reaching the desired level in future? In response to the current lack of objective, quantitative, study-independent approaches, we introduce methods that help to address such questions. We identified three challenges: (I) the need for efficient measurement techniques that adapt rapidly and reliably to capture a wide range of performance levels; (II) the need to express results in a way that allows comparison between similar but non-identical tasks; (III) the need to measure the extent to which certain components of a BCI system (e.g. the signal processing pipeline) not only support BCI performance, but also potentially restrict the maximum level it can reach. Approach. For challenge (I), we developed an automatic staircase method that adjusted task difficulty adaptively along a single abstract axis. For challenge (II), we used the rate of information gain between two Bernoulli distributions: one reflecting the observed success rate, the other reflecting chance performance estimated by a matched random-walk method. This measure includes Wolpaw’s information transfer rate as a special case, but addresses the latter’s limitations including its restriction to item-selection tasks. To validate our approach and address challenge (III), we compared four healthy subjects’ performance using an EEG-based BCI, a ‘Direct Controller’ (a high-performance hardware input device), and a ‘Pseudo-BCI Controller’ (the same input device, but with control signals processed by the BCI signal processing pipeline). Main results. Our results confirm the repeatability and validity of our measures, and indicate that our BCI signal processing pipeline reduced attainable performance by about 33% (21 bits min-1). Significance. Our approach provides a flexible basis for evaluating BCI performance and its limitations, across a wide range of tasks and task difficulties.

Transportable IOT measurement station for direct-broadcast satellites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ulbricht, Michael

A transportable 11.7-12.5-GHz flux-density measurement facility for use in the in-orbit testing (IOT) of the FRG TV-Sat direct-broadcast satellites is described. Major components include a 1.2-m-diameter antenna, the fluxmeter, a radiometer to determine atmospheric attenuation, a weather station, and a control and data-processing computer; all of the components are mounted on a 5.10 x 2.35 x 2.70-m trailer. IOT performance parameters include gain/temperature ratio 15.9 dB/K, measurement range -97 to -117 dBW/sq m, measurement accuracy less than 0.5 dB rms, and measurement rate 250-650 msec. Photographs and a block diagram are provided.

Load-embedded inertial measurement unit reveals lifting performance.

PubMed

Tammana, Aditya; McKay, Cody; Cain, Stephen M; Davidson, Steven P; Vitali, Rachel V; Ojeda, Lauro; Stirling, Leia; Perkins, Noel C

2018-07-01

Manual lifting of loads arises in many occupations as well as in activities of daily living. Prior studies explore lifting biomechanics and conditions implicated in lifting-induced injuries through laboratory-based experimental methods. This study introduces a new measurement method using load-embedded inertial measurement units (IMUs) to evaluate lifting tasks in varied environments outside of the laboratory. An example vertical load lifting task is considered that is included in an outdoor obstacle course. The IMU data, in the form of the load acceleration and angular velocity, is used to estimate load vertical velocity and three lifting performance metrics: the lifting time (speed), power, and motion smoothness. Large qualitative differences in these parameters distinguish exemplar high and low performance trials. These differences are further supported by subsequent statistical analyses of twenty three trials (including a total of 115 total lift/lower cycles) from fourteen healthy participants. Results reveal that lifting time is strongly correlated with lifting power (as expected) but also correlated with motion smoothness. Thus, participants who lift rapidly do so with significantly greater power using motions that minimize motion jerk. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The Effect of Laminar Flow on Rotor Hover Performance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Overmeyer, Austin D.; Martin, Preston B.

2017-01-01

The topic of laminar flow effects on hover performance is introduced with respect to some historical efforts where laminar flow was either measured or attempted. An analysis method is outlined using combined blade element, momentum method coupled to an airfoil analysis method, which includes the full e(sup N) transition model. The analysis results compared well with the measured hover performance including the measured location of transition on both the upper and lower blade surfaces. The analysis method is then used to understand the upper limits of hover efficiency as a function of disk loading. The impact of laminar flow is higher at low disk loading, but significant improvement in terms of power loading appears possible even up to high disk loading approaching 20 ps f. A optimum planform design equation is derived for cases of zero profile drag and finite drag levels. These results are intended to be a guide for design studies and as a benchmark to compare higher fidelity analysis results. The details of the analysis method are given to enable other researchers to use the same approach for comparison to other approaches.

Apparatus and system for multivariate spectral analysis

DOEpatents

Keenan, Michael R.; Kotula, Paul G.

2003-06-24

An apparatus and system for determining the properties of a sample from measured spectral data collected from the sample by performing a method of multivariate spectral analysis. The method can include: generating a two-dimensional matrix A containing measured spectral data; providing a weighted spectral data matrix D by performing a weighting operation on matrix A; factoring D into the product of two matrices, C and S.sup.T, by performing a constrained alternating least-squares analysis of D=CS.sup.T, where C is a concentration intensity matrix and S is a spectral shapes matrix; unweighting C and S by applying the inverse of the weighting used previously; and determining the properties of the sample by inspecting C and S. This method can be used by a spectrum analyzer to process X-ray spectral data generated by a spectral analysis system that can include a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) with an Energy Dispersive Detector and Pulse Height Analyzer.

On Laminar to Turbulent Transition of Arc-Jet Flow in the NASA Ames Panel Test Facility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gokcen, Tahir; Alunni, Antonella I.

2012-01-01

This paper provides experimental evidence and supporting computational analysis to characterize the laminar to turbulent flow transition in a high enthalpy arc-jet facility at NASA Ames Research Center. The arc-jet test data obtained in the 20 MW Panel Test Facility include measurements of surface pressure and heat flux on a water-cooled calibration plate, and measurements of surface temperature on a reaction-cured glass coated tile plate. Computational fluid dynamics simulations are performed to characterize the arc-jet test environment and estimate its parameters consistent with the facility and calibration measurements. The present analysis comprises simulations of the nonequilibrium flowfield in the facility nozzle, test box, and flowfield over test articles. Both laminar and turbulent simulations are performed, and the computed results are compared with the experimental measurements, including Stanton number dependence on Reynolds number. Comparisons of computed and measured surface heat fluxes (and temperatures), along with the accompanying analysis, confirm that that the boundary layer in the Panel Test Facility flow is transitional at certain archeater conditions.

Water Vapour Mixing Ratio Measurements in Potenza in the Frame of the International Network for the Detection of Atmospheric Composition Change - NDACC

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

De Rosa, Benedetto; Di Girolamo, Paolo; Summa, Donato; Stelitano, Dario; Mancini, Ignazio

2016-06-01

In November 2012 the University of BASILicata Raman Lidar system (BASIL) was approved to enter the International Network for the Detection of Atmospheric Composition Change (NDACC). This network includes more than 70 high-quality, remote-sensing research stations for observing and understanding the physical and chemical state of the upper troposphere and stratosphere and for assessing the impact of stratosphere changes on the underlying troposphere and on global climate. As part of this network, more than thirty groundbased Lidars deployed worldwide are routinely operated to monitor atmospheric ozone, temperature, aerosols, water vapour, and polar stratospheric clouds. In the frame of NDACC, BASIL performs measurements on a routine basis each Thursday, typically from local noon to midnight, covering a large portion of the daily cycle. Measurements from BASIL are included in the NDACC database both in terms of water vapour mixing ratio and temperature. This paper illustrates some measurement examples from BASIL, with a specific focus on water vapour measurements, with the goal to try and characterize the system performances.

Evaluating Robotic Surgical Skills Performance Under Distractive Environment Using Objective and Subjective Measures.

PubMed

Suh, Irene H; LaGrange, Chad A; Oleynikov, Dmitry; Siu, Ka-Chun

2016-02-01

Distractions are recognized as a significant factor affecting performance in safety critical domains. Although operating rooms are generally full of distractions, the effect of distractions on robot-assisted surgical (RAS) performance is unclear. Our aim was to investigate the effect of distractions on RAS performance using both objective and subjective measures. Fifteen participants performed a knot-tying task using the da Vinci Surgical System and were exposed to 3 distractions: (1) passive distraction entailed listening to noise with a constant heart rate, (2) active distraction included listening to noise and acknowledging a change of random heart rate from 60 to 120 bpm, and (3) interactive distraction consisted of answering math questions. The objective kinematics of the surgical instrument tips were used to evaluate performance. Electromyography (EMG) of the forearm and hand muscles of the participants were collected. The median EMG frequency (EMG(fmed)) and the EMG envelope (EMG(env)) were analyzed. NASA Task Load Index and Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery score were used to evaluate the subjective performance. One-way repeated analysis of variance was applied to examine the effects of distraction on skills performance. Spearman's correlations were conducted to compare objective and subjective measures. Significant distraction effect was found for all objective kinematics measures (P < .05). There were significant distraction effects for EMG measures (EMG(env), P < .004; EMG(fmed), P = .031). Significant distraction effects were also found for subjective measurements. Distraction impairs surgical skills performance and increases muscle work. Understanding how the surgeons cope with distractions is important in developing surgical education. © The Author(s) 2015.

Construct Relevant and Irrelevant Variables in Math Problem Solving Assessment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Birk, Lisa E.

2013-01-01

In this study, I examined the relation between various construct relevant and irrelevant variables and a math problem solving assessment. I used independent performance measures representing the variables of mathematics content knowledge, general ability, and reading fluency. Non-performance variables included gender, socioeconomic status,…

Benchmark for Strategic Performance Improvement.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gohlke, Annette

1997-01-01

Explains benchmarking, a total quality management tool used to measure and compare the work processes in a library with those in other libraries to increase library performance. Topics include the main groups of upper management, clients, and staff; critical success factors for each group; and benefits of benchmarking. (Author/LRW)

Electronics Technology. Performance Objectives. Basic Course.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Campbell, Guy

Several intermediate performance objectives and corresponding criterion measures are listed for each of 20 terminal objectives for a basic electronics technology course. The materials were developed for a two-semester course (2 hours daily) designed to include instruction in basic electricity and electronic fundamentals, and to develop skills and…

The Cloud Detection and UV Monitoring Experiment (CLUE)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barbier, L.; Loh, E.; Sokolsky, P.; Streitmatter, R.

2004-01-01

We propose a large-area, low-power instrument to perform CLoud detection and Ultraviolet monitoring, CLUE. CLUE will combine the W detection capabilities of the NIGHTGLOW payload, with an array of infrared sensors to perform cloud slicing measurements. Missions such as EUSO and OWL which seek to measure UHE cosmic-rays at 1W20 eV use the atmosphere as a fluorescence detector. CLUE will provide several important correlated measurements for these missions, including: monitoring the atmospheric W emissions &om 330 - 400 nm, determining the ambient cloud cover during those W measurements (with active LIDAR), measuring the optical depth of the clouds (with an array of narrow band-pass IR sensors), and correlating LIDAR and IR cloud cover measurements. This talk will describe the instrument as we envision it.

Key performance outcomes of patient safety curricula: root cause analysis, failure mode and effects analysis, and structured communications skills.

PubMed

Fassett, William E

2011-10-10

As colleges and schools of pharmacy develop core courses related to patient safety, course-level outcomes will need to include both knowledge and performance measures. Three key performance outcomes for patient safety coursework, measured at the course level, are the ability to perform root cause analyses and healthcare failure mode effects analyses, and the ability to generate effective safety communications using structured formats such as the Situation-Background-Assessment-Recommendation (SBAR) situational briefing model. Each of these skills is widely used in patient safety work and competence in their use is essential for a pharmacist's ability to contribute as a member of a patient safety team.

Foundations of measurement and instrumentation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Warshawsky, Isidore

1990-01-01

The user of instrumentation has provided an understanding of the factors that influence instrument performance, selection, and application, and of the methods of interpreting and presenting the results of measurements. Such understanding is prerequisite to the successful attainment of the best compromise among reliability, accuracy, speed, cost, and importance of the measurement operation in achieving the ultimate goal of a project. Some subjects covered are dimensions; units; sources of measurement error; methods of describing and estimating accuracy; deduction and presentation of results through empirical equations, including the method of least squares; experimental and analytical methods of determining the static and dynamic behavior of instrumentation systems, including the use of analogs.

Behind the Final Grade in Hybrid v. Traditional Courses: Comparing Student Performance by Assessment Type, Core Competency, and Course Objective

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bain, Lisa Z.

2012-01-01

There are many different delivery methods used by institutions of higher education. These include traditional, hybrid, and online course offerings. The comparisons of these typically use final grade as the measure of student performance. This research study looks behind the final grade and compares student performance by assessment type, core…

Exploring the Possibility and Potential for Pay for Performance in America's Public Schools

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ellerson, Noelle M.

2009-01-01

In response to a growing dialogue at the local, state and national levels around the idea of restructuring teacher pay to include performance measures, the American Association of School Administrators surveyed a randomly selected sample of its members to gauge their feedback and interest in pay-for-performance programs. AASA launched this survey…

Examining techniques for measuring the effects of nutrients on mental performance and mood state.

PubMed

Hamer, Mark; Dye, Louise; Siobhan Mitchell, E; Layé, Sophie; Saunders, Caroline; Boyle, Neil; Schuermans, Jeroen; Sijben, John

2016-09-01

Intake of specific nutrients has been linked to mental states and various indices of cognitive performance although the effects are often subtle and difficult to interpret. Measurement of so-called objective variables (e.g. reaction times) is often considered to be the gold standard for assessing outcomes in this field of research. It can, however, be argued that data on subjective experience (e.g. mood) are also important and may enrich existing objective data. The aim of this review is to evaluate methods for measuring mental performance and mood, considering the definition of subjective mood and the validity of measures of subjective experience. A multi-stakeholder expert group was invited by ILSI Europe to come to a consensus around the utility of objective and subjective measurement in this field, which forms the basis of the paper. Therefore, the present review reflects a succinct overview of the science but is not intended to be a systematic review. The proposed approach extends the traditional methodology using standard 'objective' measurements to also include the consumers' subjective experiences in relation to food. Specific recommendations include 1) using contemporary methods to capture transient mood states; 2) using sufficiently sensitive measures to capture effects of nutritional intervention; 3) considering the possibility that subjective and objective responses will occur over different time frames; and 4) recognition of the importance of expectancy and placebo effects for subjective measures. The consensus reached was that the most informative approach should involve collection and consideration of both objective and subjective data.

Landsat 8 operational land imager on-orbit geometric calibration and performance

USGS Publications Warehouse

Storey, James C.; Choate, Michael J.; Lee, Kenton

2014-01-01

The Landsat 8 spacecraft was launched on 11 February 2013 carrying the Operational Land Imager (OLI) payload for moderate resolution imaging in the visible, near infrared (NIR), and short-wave infrared (SWIR) spectral bands. During the 90-day commissioning period following launch, several on-orbit geometric calibration activities were performed to refine the prelaunch calibration parameters. The results of these calibration activities were subsequently used to measure geometric performance characteristics in order to verify the OLI geometric requirements. Three types of geometric calibrations were performed including: (1) updating the OLI-to-spacecraft alignment knowledge; (2) refining the alignment of the sub-images from the multiple OLI sensor chips; and (3) refining the alignment of the OLI spectral bands. The aspects of geometric performance that were measured and verified included: (1) geolocation accuracy with terrain correction, but without ground control (L1Gt); (2) Level 1 product accuracy with terrain correction and ground control (L1T); (3) band-to-band registration accuracy; and (4) multi-temporal image-to-image registration accuracy. Using the results of the on-orbit calibration update, all aspects of geometric performance were shown to meet or exceed system requirements.

Evidence that communication impairment in schizophrenia is associated with generalized poor task performance.

PubMed

Merrill, Anne M; Karcher, Nicole R; Cicero, David C; Becker, Theresa M; Docherty, Anna R; Kerns, John G

2017-03-01

People with schizophrenia exhibit wide-ranging cognitive deficits, including slower processing speed and decreased cognitive control. Disorganized speech symptoms, such as communication impairment, have been associated with poor cognitive control task performance (e.g., goal maintenance and working memory). Whether communication impairment is associated with poorer performance on a broader range of non-cognitive control measures is unclear. In the current study, people with schizophrenia (n =51) and non-psychiatric controls (n =26) completed speech interviews allowing for reliable quantitative assessment of communication impairment. Participants also completed multiple goal maintenance and working memory tasks. In addition, we also examined (a) simple measures of processing speed involving highly automatic prepotent responses and (b) a non-cognitive control measure of general task performance. Schizophrenia communication impairment was significantly associated with poor performance in all cognitive domains, with the largest association found with processing speed (r s =-0.52). Further, communication impairment was also associated with the non-cognitive control measure of poor general task performance (r s =-0.43). In contrast, alogia, a negative speech symptom, and positive symptoms were less if at all related to cognitive task performance. Overall, this study suggests that communication impairment in schizophrenia may be associated with relatively generalized poor cognitive task performance. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Developing a Tool for Measuring the Decision-Making Competence of Older Adults

PubMed Central

Finucane, Melissa L.; Gullion, Christina M.

2010-01-01

The authors evaluated the reliability and validity of a tool for measuring older adults’ decision-making competence (DMC). Two-hundred-five younger adults (25-45 years), 208 young-older adults (65-74 years), and 198 old-older adults (75-97 years) made judgments and decisions related to health, finance, and nutrition. Reliable indices of comprehension, dimension weighting, and cognitive reflection were developed. Unlike previous research, the authors were able to compare old-older with young-older adults’ performance. As hypothesized, old-older adults performed more poorly than young-older adults; both groups of older adults performed more poorly than younger adults. Hierarchical regression analyses showed that a large amount of variance in decision performance across age groups (including mean trends) could be accounted for by social variables, health measures, basic cognitive skills, attitudinal measures, and numeracy. Structural equation modeling revealed significant pathways from three exogenous latent factors (crystallized intelligence, other cognitive abilities, and age) to the endogenous DMC latent factor. Further research is needed to validate the meaning of performance on these tasks for real-life decision making. PMID:20545413

Validation of minicams for measuring concentrations of chemical agent in environmental air

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

Menton, R.G.; Hayes, T.L.; Chou, Y.L.

1993-05-13

Environmental monitoring for chemical agents is necessary to ensure that notification and appropriate action will be taken in the, event that there is a release exceeding control limits of such agents into the workplace outside of engineering controls. Prior to implementing new analytical procedures for environmental monitoring, precision and accuracy (PA) tests are conducted to ensure that an agent monitoring system performs according to specified accuracy, precision, and sensitivity requirements. This testing not only establishes the accuracy and precision of the method, but also determines what factors can affect the method's performance. Performance measures that are particularly important in agentmore » monitoring include the Detection Limit (DL), Decision Limit (DC), Found Action Level (FAL), and the Target Action Level (TAL). PA experiments were performed at Battelle's Medical Research and Evaluation Facility (MREF) to validate the use of the miniature chemical agent monitoring system (MINICAMs) for measuring environmental air concentrations of sulfur mustard (HD). This presentation discusses the experimental and statistical approaches for characterizing the performance of MINICAMS for measuring HD in air.« less

The PATH project in eight European countries: an evaluation.

PubMed

Veillard, Jeremy Henri Maurice; Schiøtz, Michaela Louise; Guisset, Ann-Lise; Brown, Adalsteinn Davidson; Klazinga, Niek S

2013-01-01

This paper's aim is to evaluate the perceived impact and the enabling factors and barriers experienced by hospital staff participating in an international hospital performance measurement project focused on internal quality improvement. Semi-structured interviews involving international hospital performance measurement project coordinators, including 140 hospitals from eight European countries (Belgium, Estonia, France, Germany, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia). Inductively analyzing the interview transcripts was carried out using the grounded theory approach. Even when public reporting is absent, the project was perceived as having stimulated performance measurement and quality improvement initiatives in participating hospitals. Attention should be paid to leadership/ownership, context, content (project intrinsic features) and processes supporting elements. Generalizing the findings is limited by the study's small sample size. Possible implications for the WHO European Regional Office and for participating hospitals would be to assess hospital preparedness to participate in the PATH project, depending on context, process and structural elements; and enhance performance and practice benchmarking through suggested approaches. This research gathered rich and unique material related to an international performance measurement project. It derived actionable findings.

What can the national quality forum tell us about performance measurement in anesthesiology?

PubMed

Hyder, Joseph A; Niconchuk, Jonathan; Glance, Laurent G; Neuman, Mark D; Cima, Robert R; Dutton, Richard P; Nguyen, Louis L; Fleisher, Lee A; Bader, Angela M

2015-02-01

Anesthesiologists face increasing pressure to demonstrate the value of the care they provide, whether locally or nationally through public reporting and payor requirements. In this article, we describe the current state of performance measurement in anesthesia care at the national level and highlight gaps and opportunities in performance measurement for anesthesiologists. We evaluated all endorsed performance measures in the National Quality Forum (NQF), the clearinghouse for all federal performance measures, and classified all measures as follows: (1) anesthesia-specific; (2) surgery-specific; (3) jointly attributable; or (4) other. We used NQF-provided descriptors to characterize measures in terms of (1) structure, process, outcome, or efficiency; (2) patients, disease, and events targeted; (3) procedural specialty; (4) reporting eligibility; (5) measures stewards; and (6) timing in the care stream. Of the 637 endorsed performance measures, few (6, 1.0%) were anesthesia-specific. An additional 39 measures (6.1%) were surgery-specific, and 67 others (10.5%) were jointly attributable. "Anesthesia-specific" measures addressed preoperative antibiotic timing (n = 4), normothermia (n = 1), and protocol use for the placement of central venous catheter (n = 1). Jointly attributable measures included outcome measures (n = 49/67, 73.1%), which were weighted toward mortality alone (n = 24) and cardiac surgery (n = 14). Other jointly attributable measures addressed orthopedic surgery (n = 4), general surgical oncologic resections (n = 12), or nonspecified surgeries (n = 15), but none specifically addressed anesthesia care outside the operating room such as for endoscopy. Only 4 measures were eligible for value-based purchasing. No named anesthesiology professional groups were among measure stewards, but surgical professional groups (n = 33/67, 47%) were frequent measure stewards. Few NQF performance measures are specific to anesthesia practice, and none of these appears to demonstrate the value of anesthesia care or differentiate high-quality providers. To demonstrate their role in patient-centered, outcome-driven care, anesthesiologists may consider actively partnering in jointly attributable or team-based reporting. Future measures may incorporate surgical procedures not proportionally represented, as well as procedural and sedation care provided in nonoperating room settings.

Validity of linear encoder measurement of sit-to-stand performance power in older people.

PubMed

Lindemann, U; Farahmand, P; Klenk, J; Blatzonis, K; Becker, C

2015-09-01

To investigate construct validity of linear encoder measurement of sit-to-stand performance power in older people by showing associations with relevant functional performance and physiological parameters. Cross-sectional study. Movement laboratory of a geriatric rehabilitation clinic. Eighty-eight community-dwelling, cognitively unimpaired older women (mean age 78 years). Sit-to-stand performance power and leg power were assessed using a linear encoder and the Nottingham Power Rig, respectively. Gait speed was measured on an instrumented walkway. Maximum quadriceps and hand grip strength were assessed using dynamometers. Mid-thigh muscle cross-sectional area of both legs was measured using magnetic resonance imaging. Associations of sit-to-stand performance power with power assessed by the Nottingham Power Rig, maximum gait speed and muscle cross-sectional area were r=0.646, r=0.536 and r=0.514, respectively. A linear regression model explained 50% of the variance in sit-to-stand performance power including muscle cross-sectional area (p=0.001), maximum gait speed (p=0.002), and power assessed by the Nottingham Power Rig (p=0.006). Construct validity of linear encoder measurement of sit-to-stand power was shown at functional level and morphological level for older women. This measure could be used in routine clinical practice as well as in large-scale studies. DRKS00003622. Copyright © 2015 Chartered Society of Physiotherapy. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Neurocognitive Correlates of Young Drivers' Performance in a Driving Simulator.

PubMed

Guinosso, Stephanie A; Johnson, Sara B; Schultheis, Maria T; Graefe, Anna C; Bishai, David M

2016-04-01

Differences in neurocognitive functioning may contribute to driving performance among young drivers. However, few studies have examined this relation. This pilot study investigated whether common neurocognitive measures were associated with driving performance among young drivers in a driving simulator. Young drivers (19.8 years (standard deviation [SD] = 1.9; N = 74)) participated in a battery of neurocognitive assessments measuring general intellectual capacity (Full-Scale Intelligence Quotient, FSIQ) and executive functioning, including the Stroop Color-Word Test (cognitive inhibition), Wisconsin Card Sort Test-64 (cognitive flexibility), and Attention Network Task (alerting, orienting, and executive attention). Participants then drove in a simulated vehicle under two conditions-a baseline and driving challenge. During the driving challenge, participants completed a verbal working memory task to increase demand on executive attention. Multiple regression models were used to evaluate the relations between the neurocognitive measures and driving performance under the two conditions. FSIQ, cognitive inhibition, and alerting were associated with better driving performance at baseline. FSIQ and cognitive inhibition were also associated with better driving performance during the verbal challenge. Measures of cognitive flexibility, orienting, and conflict executive control were not associated with driving performance under either condition. FSIQ and, to some extent, measures of executive function are associated with driving performance in a driving simulator. Further research is needed to determine if executive function is associated with more advanced driving performance under conditions that demand greater cognitive load. Copyright © 2016 Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Cognitive, Parent and Teacher Rating Measures of Executive Functioning: Shared and Unique Influences on School Achievement

PubMed Central

Dekker, Marielle C.; Ziermans, Tim B.; Spruijt, Andrea M.; Swaab, Hanna

2017-01-01

Very little is known about the relative influence of cognitive performance-based executive functioning (EF) measures and behavioral EF ratings in explaining differences in children's school achievement. This study examined the shared and unique influence of these different EF measures on math and spelling outcome for a sample of 84 first and second graders. Parents and teachers completed the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF), and children were tested with computer-based performance tests from the Amsterdam Neuropsychological Tasks (ANT). Mixed-model hierarchical regression analyses, including intelligence level and age, showed that cognitive performance and teacher's ratings of working memory and shifting concurrently explained differences in spelling. However, teacher's behavioral EF ratings did not explain any additional variance in math outcome above cognitive EF performance. Parent's behavioral EF ratings did not add any unique information for either outcome measure. This study provides support for the ecological validity of performance- and teacher rating-based EF measures, and shows that both measures could have a complementary role in identifying EF processes underlying spelling achievement problems. The early identification of strengths and weaknesses of a child's working memory and shifting capabilities, might help teachers to broaden their range of remedial intervention options to optimize school achievement. PMID:28194121

CTS/Comstar communications link characterization experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hodge, D. B.; Taylor, R. C.

1980-01-01

Measurements of angle of arrival and amplitude fluctuations on millimeter wavelength Earth-space communication links are described. Measurement of rainfall attenuation and radiometric temperature statistics and the assessment of the performance of a self-phased array as a receive antenna on an Earth-space link are also included.

Measuring Reading Performance.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Blanton, William E., Ed.; And Others

Designed to provide solutions to some of the problems related to measuring reading behavior, this publication explores some of the problems of test selection and usage which confront educators. Contents include "Reading Testing for Reading Evaluation" by Walter R. Hill, "Reading Tests and the Disadvantaged" by Thomas J. Fitzgibbon, "What Is…

Access to Care Under Physician Payment Reform: A Physician-Based Analysis

PubMed Central

Meadow, Ann

1995-01-01

This article reports physician-based measures of access to care during the 3 years surrounding the 1989 physician payment reforms. Analysis was facilitated by a new system of physician identifiers in Medicare claims. Access measures include caseload per physician and related measures of the demographic composition of physicians' clientele, the proportion of physicians performing surgical and other procedures, and the assignment rate. The caseload and assignment measures were stable or improving over time, suggesting that reforms did not harm access. Procedure performance rates tended to decline between 1992 and 1993, but reductions were inversely related to the estimated fee changes, and several may be explainable by other factors. PMID:10172615

Measuring pregnancy planning: An assessment of the London Measure of Unplanned Pregnancy among urban, south Indian women

PubMed Central

Rocca, Corinne H.; Krishnan, Suneeta; Barrett, Geraldine; Wilson, Mark

2010-01-01

We evaluated the psychometric properties of the London Measure of Unplanned Pregnancy among Indian women using classical methods and Item Response Modeling. The scale exhibited good internal consistency and internal structure, with overall scores correlating well with each item’s response categories. Items performed similarly for pregnant and non-pregnant women, and scores decreased with increasing parity, providing evidence for validity. Analyses also detected limitations, including infrequent selection of middle response categories and some evidence of differential item functioning by parity. We conclude that the LMUP represents an improvement over existing measures but recommend steps for enhancing scale performance for this cultural context. PMID:21170147

Osteoarthritis year in review: rehabilitation and outcomes.

PubMed

Davis, A M

2012-03-01

This review highlights seminal publications of rehabilitation interventions and outcomes in osteoarthritis (OA) of the hip or knee. Medline, CINAHL, and Embase databases from September 2010 through August 2011 were searched using the key words 'osteoarthritis', rehabilitation, physical therapy, exercise, and outcome(s), limited to human and English. Rehabilitation intervention studies were included if they were randomized trials (RCT), systematic reviews or meta-analyses. Studies of surgical interventions were excluded unless they included evaluation of a rehabilitation intervention. Outcome studies were included if they contributed methodologically to advancing outcome measurement. Reviews of measurement properties of outcomes were excluded. Eight publications were selected and reviewed that relate to interventions evaluating manual therapy in hip or knee OA, tele-rehabilitation and performance and participation measures as outcomes. One systematic review of hip and knee OA, one meta-analysis of knee OA provide limited support for the benefit of manual therapy with exercise for improving pain and function to a lesser extent in the short-term (3 months). Study quality overall was low. One high quality RCT in knee replacement of usual outpatient physiotherapy vs internet-based tele-rehabilitation based on a non-inferiority analysis demonstrated comparable outcomes on Western Ontario McMaster Universities' Osteoarthritis questionnaire (WOMAC) pain and function and performance measures. Three studies demonstrated that observed performance measures such as timed walk tests and stair-climbing and timed-up-and-go measure concepts differ from self-report of difficulty with physical function. Additionally, two studies showed differential times of recovery following total knee replacement (TKR). Two studies evaluated participation. One demonstrated the conceptual distinction of activity limitations and participation and a second re-analyzed trial data from knee OA studies. In one study, there were larger effects in combined activity/participation than for activity alone for arthroscopic lavage compared to intraarticular steroid and, in a second study, the effect was larger for activity with an advanced pharmacy intervention whereas the physiotherapy intervention demonstrated a larger effect for activity/participation. Interventions of manual therapy for hip and knee OA provided limited evidence of effectiveness. These studies are of limited quality due to lack of blinding and disclosure of co-intervention. Tele-rehabilitation may be a viable option to improve access to rehabilitation post joint replacement for those in rural and remote areas. Data continue to support the need to include performance measures as well as patient-reported outcomes in evaluating outcomes in OA. Additionally, measures of participation should be considered as core outcomes. Copyright © 2012 Osteoarthritis Research Society International. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Neurocognitive performance in family-based and case-control studies of schizophrenia.

PubMed

Gur, Ruben C; Braff, David L; Calkins, Monica E; Dobie, Dorcas J; Freedman, Robert; Green, Michael F; Greenwood, Tiffany A; Lazzeroni, Laura C; Light, Gregory A; Nuechterlein, Keith H; Olincy, Ann; Radant, Allen D; Seidman, Larry J; Siever, Larry J; Silverman, Jeremy M; Sprock, Joyce; Stone, William S; Sugar, Catherine A; Swerdlow, Neal R; Tsuang, Debby W; Tsuang, Ming T; Turetsky, Bruce I; Gur, Raquel E

2015-04-01

Neurocognitive deficits in schizophrenia (SZ) are established and the Consortium on the Genetics of Schizophrenia (COGS) investigated such measures as endophenotypes in family-based (COGS-1) and case-control (COGS-2) studies. By requiring family participation, family-based sampling may result in samples that vary demographically and perform better on neurocognitive measures. The Penn computerized neurocognitive battery (CNB) evaluates accuracy and speed of performance for several domains and was administered across sites in COGS-1 and COGS-2. Most tests were included in both studies. COGS-1 included 328 patients with SZ and 497 healthy comparison subjects (HCS) and COGS-2 included 1195 patients and 1009 HCS. Demographically, COGS-1 participants were younger, more educated, with more educated parents and higher estimated IQ compared to COGS-2 participants. After controlling for demographics, the two samples produced very similar performance profiles compared to their respective controls. As expected, performance was better and with smaller effect sizes compared to controls in COGS-1 relative to COGS-2. Better performance was most pronounced for spatial processing while emotion identification had large effect sizes for both accuracy and speed in both samples. Performance was positively correlated with functioning and negatively with negative and positive symptoms in both samples, but correlations were attenuated in COGS-2, especially with positive symptoms. Patients ascertained through family-based design have more favorable demographics and better performance on some neurocognitive domains. Thus, studies that use case-control ascertainment may tap into populations with more severe forms of illness that are exposed to less favorable factors compared to those ascertained with family-based designs.

The Society of Thoracic Surgeons Composite Measure of Individual Surgeon Performance for Adult Cardiac Surgery: A Report of The Society of Thoracic Surgeons Quality Measurement Task Force.

PubMed

Shahian, David M; He, Xia; Jacobs, Jeffrey P; Kurlansky, Paul A; Badhwar, Vinay; Cleveland, Joseph C; Fazzalari, Frank L; Filardo, Giovanni; Normand, Sharon-Lise T; Furnary, Anthony P; Magee, Mitchell J; Rankin, J Scott; Welke, Karl F; Han, Jane; O'Brien, Sean M

2015-10-01

Previous composite performance measures of The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) were estimated at the STS participant level, typically a hospital or group practice. The STS Quality Measurement Task Force has now developed a multiprocedural, multidimensional composite measure suitable for estimating the performance of individual surgeons. The development sample from the STS National Database included 621,489 isolated coronary artery bypass grafting procedures, isolated aortic valve replacement, aortic valve replacement plus coronary artery bypass grafting, mitral, or mitral plus coronary artery bypass grafting procedures performed by 2,286 surgeons between July 1, 2011, and June 30, 2014. Each surgeon's composite score combined their aggregate risk-adjusted mortality and major morbidity rates (each weighted inversely by their standard deviations) and reflected the proportion of case types they performed. Model parameters were estimated in a Bayesian framework. Composite star ratings were examined using 90%, 95%, or 98% Bayesian credible intervals. Measure reliability was estimated using various 3-year case thresholds. The final composite measure was defined as 0.81 × (1 minus risk-standardized mortality rate) + 0.19 × (1 minus risk-standardized complication rate). Risk-adjusted mortality (median, 2.3%; interquartile range, 1.7% to 3.0%), morbidity (median, 13.7%; interquartile range, 10.8% to 17.1%), and composite scores (median, 95.4%; interquartile range, 94.4% to 96.3%) varied substantially across surgeons. Using 98% Bayesian credible intervals, there were 207 1-star (lower performance) surgeons (9.1%), 1,701 2-star (as-expected performance) surgeons (74.4%), and 378 3-star (higher performance) surgeons (16.5%). With an eligibility threshold of 100 cases over 3 years, measure reliability was 0.81. The STS has developed a multiprocedural composite measure suitable for evaluating performance at the individual surgeon level. Copyright © 2015 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

ASRDI oxygen technology survey. Volume 6: Flow measurement instrumentation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mann, D. B.

1974-01-01

A summary is provided of information available on liquid and gaseous oxygen flowmetering including an evaluation of commercial meters. The instrument types, physical principles of measurement, and performance characteristics are described. Problems concerning flow measurements of less than plus or minus two percent uncertainty are reviewed. Recommendations concerning work on flow reference systems, the use of surrogate fluids, and standard tests for oxygen flow measurements are also presented.

In-situ stresses in low-permeability, nonmarine rocks

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

Warpinski, N.R.; Teufel, L.W.

In-situ stress measurements have been performed over a 2,500-ft (760-m) interval in the nonmarine section of the Cretaceous Mesaverde in the Piceance basin in Colorado. These measurements included 52 hydraulic fracture measurements of the minimum in-situ stress and 22 anelastic strain recovery (ASR) measurements. Stress data obtained in sandstones, shales, mudstones, siltstones, and coals show the effect of lithology on the magnitudes of the stresses.

Thermal Performance of Composite Flexible Blanket Insulations for Hypersonic Aerospace Vehicles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kourtides, Demetrius A.

1993-01-01

This paper describes the thermal performance of a Composite Flexible Blanket Insulation (C.F.B.I.) considered for potential use as a thermal protection system or thermal insulation for future hypersonic vehicles such as the National Aerospace Plane (N.A.S.P.). Thermophysical properties for these insulations were also measured including the thermal conductivity at various temperatures and pressures and the emissivity of the fabrics used in the flexible insulations. The thermal response of these materials subjected to aeroconvective heating from a plasma arc is also described. Materials tested included two surface variations of the insulations, and similar insulations coated with a Protective Ceramic Coating (P.C.C.). Surface and backface temperatures were measured in the flexible insulations and on Fibrous Refractory Composite Insulation (F.R.C.I.) used as a calibration model. The uncoated flexible insulations exhibited good thermal performance up to 35 W/sq cm. The use of a P.C.C. to protect these insulations at higher heating rates is described. The results from a computerized thermal analysis model describing thermal response of those materials subjected to the plasma arc conditions are included. Thermal and optical properties were determined including thermal conductivity for the rigid and flexible insulations and emissivity for the insulation fabrics. These properties were utilized to calculate the thermal performance of the rigid and flexible insulations at the maximum heating rate.

Age-, sex-, and education-specific norms for an extended CERAD Neuropsychological Assessment Battery-Results from the population-based LIFE-Adult-Study.

PubMed

Luck, Tobias; Pabst, Alexander; Rodriguez, Francisca S; Schroeter, Matthias L; Witte, Veronica; Hinz, Andreas; Mehnert, Anja; Engel, Christoph; Loeffler, Markus; Thiery, Joachim; Villringer, Arno; Riedel-Heller, Steffi G

2018-05-01

To provide new age-, sex-, and education-specific reference values for an extended version of the well-established Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer's Disease Neuropsychological Assessment Battery (CERAD-NAB) that additionally includes the Trail Making Test and the Verbal Fluency Test-S-Words. Norms were calculated based on the cognitive performances of n = 1,888 dementia-free participants (60-79 years) from the population-based German LIFE-Adult-Study. Multiple regressions were used to examine the association of the CERAD-NAB scores with age, sex, and education. In order to calculate the norms, quantile and censored quantile regression analyses were performed estimating marginal means of the test scores at 2.28, 6.68, 10, 15.87, 25, 50, 75, and 90 percentiles for age-, sex-, and education-specific subgroups. Multiple regression analyses revealed that younger age was significantly associated with better cognitive performance in 15 CERAD-NAB measures and higher education with better cognitive performance in all 17 measures. Women performed significantly better than men in 12 measures and men than women in four measures. The determined norms indicate ceiling effects for the cognitive performances in the Boston Naming, Word List Recognition, Constructional Praxis Copying, and Constructional Praxis Recall tests. The new norms for the extended CERAD-NAB will be useful for evaluating dementia-free German-speaking adults in a broad variety of relevant cognitive domains. The extended CERAD-NAB follows more closely the criteria for the new DSM-5 Mild and Major Neurocognitive Disorder. Additionally, it could be further developed to include a test for social cognition. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved).

Automotive Emission Control.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lee, Billy D.; And Others

This publication contains instructional materials for both teachers and students for a course in automotive emission control. Instructional materials in this publication are written in terms of student performance using measurable objectives. The course includes 16 units. Each instructional unit includes some or all of the basic components of a…

Development of a MEMS device for acoustic emission testing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ozevin, Didem; Pessiki, Stephen P.; Jain, Akash; Greve, David W.; Oppenheim, Irving J.

2003-08-01

Acoustic emission testing is an important technology for evaluating structural materials, and especially for detecting damage in structural members. Significant new capabilities may be gained by developing MEMS transducers for acoustic emission testing, including permanent bonding or embedment for superior coupling, greater density of transducer placement, and a bundle of transducers on each device tuned to different frequencies. Additional advantages include capabilities for maintenance of signal histories and coordination between multiple transducers. We designed a MEMS device for acoustic emission testing that features two different mechanical types, a hexagonal plate design and a spring-mass design, with multiple detectors of each type at ten different frequencies in the range of 100 kHz to 1 MHz. The devices were fabricated in the multi-user polysilicon surface micromachining (MUMPs) process and we have conducted electrical characterization experiments and initial experiments on acoustic emission detection. We first report on C(V) measurements and perform a comparison between predicted (design) and measured response. We next report on admittance measurements conducted at pressures varying from vacuum to atmospheric, identifying the resonant frequencies and again providing a comparison with predicted performance. We then describe initial calibration experiments that compare the performance of the detectors to other acoustic emission transducers, and we discuss the overall performance of the device as a sensor suite, as contrasted to the single-channel performance of most commercial transducers.

A simple measure of cognitive reserve is relevant for cognitive performance in MS patients.

PubMed

Della Corte, Marida; Santangelo, Gabriella; Bisecco, Alvino; Sacco, Rosaria; Siciliano, Mattia; d'Ambrosio, Alessandro; Docimo, Renato; Cuomo, Teresa; Lavorgna, Luigi; Bonavita, Simona; Tedeschi, Gioacchino; Gallo, Antonio

2018-05-04

Cognitive reserve (CR) contributes to preserve cognition despite brain damage. This theory has been applied to multiple sclerosis (MS) to explain the partial relationship between cognition and MRI markers of brain pathology. Our aim was to determine the relationship between two measures of CR and cognition in MS. One hundred and forty-seven MS patients were enrolled. Cognition was assessed using the Rao's Brief Repeatable Battery and the Stroop Test. CR was measured as the vocabulary subtest of the WAIS-R score (VOC) and the number of years of formal education (EDU). Regression analysis included raw score data on each neuropsychological (NP) test as dependent variables and demographic/clinical parameters, VOC, and EDU as independent predictors. A binary logistic regression analysis including clinical/CR parameters as covariates and absence/presence of cognitive deficits as dependent variables was performed too. VOC, but not EDU, was strongly correlated with performances at all ten NP tests. EDU was correlated with executive performances. The binary logistic regression showed that only the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and VOC were independently correlated with the presence/absence of CD. The lower the VOC and/or the higher the EDSS, the higher the frequency of CD. In conclusion, our study supports the relevance of CR in subtending cognitive performances and the presence of CD in MS patients.

The effects of control order, feedback, practice, and input device on tracking performance and perceived workload

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hancock, P. A.; Robinson, M. A.

1989-01-01

The present experiment examined the influence of several task-related factors on tracking performance and concomitant workload. The manipulated factors included tracking order, the presence or absence of knowledge of performance, and the control device. Summed root mean square error (rmse) and perceived workload were measured at the termination of each trial. Perceived workload was measured using the NASA Task Load Index (TLX) and the Subjective Workload Assessment Technique (SWAT). Results indicated a large and expected effect for track order on both performance and the perception of load. In general, trackball input was more accurate and judged for lower load than input using a mouse. The presence or absence of knowledge of performance had little effect on either performance or workload. There were a number of interactions between factors shown in performance that were mirrored by perceived workload scores. Results from each workload scale were equivalent in terms of sensitivity to task manipulations. The pattern of results affirm the utility of these workload measures in assessing the imposed load of multiple task-related variables.

Individual differences and their measurement: A review of 100 years of research.

PubMed

Sackett, Paul R; Lievens, Filip; Van Iddekinge, Chad H; Kuncel, Nathan R

2017-03-01

This article reviews 100 years of research on individual differences and their measurement, with a focus on research published in the Journal of Applied Psychology. We focus on 3 major individual differences domains: (a) knowledge, skill, and ability, including both the cognitive and physical domains; (b) personality, including integrity, emotional intelligence, stable motivational attributes (e.g., achievement motivation, core self-evaluations), and creativity; and (c) vocational interests. For each domain, we describe the evolution of the domain across the years and highlight major theoretical, empirical, and methodological developments, including relationships between individual differences and variables such as job performance, job satisfaction, and career development. We conclude by discussing future directions for individual differences research. Trends in the literature include a growing focus on substantive issues rather than on the measurement of individual differences, a differentiation between constructs and measurement methods, and the use of innovative ways of assessing individual differences, such as simulations, other-reports, and implicit measures. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved).

76 FR 73752 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; Options Clearing Corporation; Notice of Filing of Amendment No. 2...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-11-29

... measure the relative total returns of a stock or exchange-traded fund (``ETF'') against another stock or ETF, including where one of the reference ETFs measured by the index is a gold- or silver-based ETF.\\4... reference securities of an underlying relative performance index is an ETF designed to measure the return of...

Multidimensional assessment of homework: an analysis of students with ADHD.

PubMed

Mautone, Jennifer A; Marshall, Stephen A; Costigan, Tracy E; Clarke, Angela T; Power, Thomas J

2012-10-01

Homework can have beneficial effects for students; however, it presents challenges, particularly for students with attention problems. Although effective homework interventions exist, intervention development and evaluation has been hampered by the lack of psychometrically sound measures. The primary purpose of this study was to evaluate the construct validity of the Homework Performance Questionnaire (HPQ), Parent and Teacher Versions, in a sample of children with ADHD. A secondary purpose was to examine variations in homework performance as a function of individual characteristics, such as academic achievement, quality of the family-school relationship, and child's diagnostic status. The sample included 91 children (34% female) with ADHD in Grades 2 to 6. Measures included parent and teacher ratings of homework performance and the quality of the parent-teacher relationship as well as direct assessment of child academic achievement and homework performance (i.e., samples of completed assignments). Correlational analyses were used to examine construct validity, and ANOVAs were used to evaluate group differences. Each factor of the HPQ had a significant relationship with other measures of relevant constructs. There were no significant differences in homework performance between groups for ADHD subtype, medication status, or comorbidity, with the exception of learning disability. Children with ADHD and learning disabilities had significantly lower teacher ratings of academic competence. Results of the present study suggest that HPQ scores may be used to make valid inferences about the homework performance of children with attention problems. These rating scales may be helpful in progress monitoring and evaluating intervention effectiveness.

Apollo Saturn 511 effluent measurements from the Apollo 16 launch operations: An experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gregory, G. L.; Hulten, W. C.; Wornom, D. E.

1974-01-01

An experiment was performed in conjunction with the Apollo 16 launch to define operational and instrumentational problems associated with launch-vehicle exhaust effluent monitoring. Ground and airborne sampling were performed for CO, CO2, hydrocarbons, and particulates. Sampling systems included filter pads and photometers for particulates and whole-air grab samples for gases. Launch debris was identified in the particulate samples at ground level(taken immediately after launch) and in the airborne measurements (taken 40 to 50 minutes after launch approximately 40 km downwind of the pad). Operational problems were identified and included the need for higher instrumentation mobility and the need for real-time sampling instrumentation as opposed to collection-type samples such as the whole-air grab sample.

Laboratory and field performance measurements to support the implementation of warm mix asphalt in Texas.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-07-01

An objective of this study was to monitor the performance of more than 10 warm mix asphalt (WMA) : projects in the state. Several WMA technologies were included in the study (foaming, Advera, Evotherm, : Rediset, Sasobit) and it was determined that p...

American Industries. Performance Objectives. Volume 1.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Goldsbury, Paul; And Others

Several intermediate performance objectives and corresponding criterion measures are listed for each of the three categories (American Industries Orientation, Agriculture, and Construction) included in this first of a two-volume course guide on American industries. The materials were developed for a 9- to 12-week course for seventh grade students…

Auto Mechanics. Performance Objectives. Basic Course.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carter, Thomas G., Sr.

Several intermediate performance objectives and corresponding criterion measures are listed for each of 14 terminal objectives for a basic automotive mechanics course. The materials were developed for a two-semester course (2 hours daily) designed to provide training in the basic fundamentals in diagnosis and repair including cooling system and…

Development of The Science Processes Test.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ludeman, Robert R.

Presented is a description and copy of a test manual developed to include items in the test on the basis of children's performance; each item correlated highly with performance on an external criterion. The external criterion was the Individual Competency Measures of the elementary science program Science - A Process Approach (SAPA). The test…

Specifying and Refining a Measurement Model for a Computer-Based Interactive Assessment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Levy, Roy; Mislevy, Robert J.

2004-01-01

The challenges of modeling students' performance in computer-based interactive assessments include accounting for multiple aspects of knowledge and skill that arise in different situations and the conditional dependencies among multiple aspects of performance. This article describes a Bayesian approach to modeling and estimating cognitive models…

Twentieth Annual Conference on Manual Control, Volume 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hart, S. G. (Compiler); Hartzell, E. J. (Compiler)

1984-01-01

Volume II contains thirty two complete manuscripts and five abstracts. The topics covered include the application of event-related brain potential analysis to operational problems, the subjective evaluation of workload, mental models, training, crew interaction analysis, multiple task performance, and the measurement of workload and performance in simulation.

Expanded Measures of School Performance. Technical Report

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schwartz, Heather L.; Hamilton, Laura S.; Stecher, Brian M.; Steele, Jennifer L.

2011-01-01

The upcoming reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act provides an opportunity to reconsider what factors school performance-reporting systems should include. Critics of No Child Left Behind (NCLB) have pointed to the narrowing effects of the law's focus on mathematics and reading achievement, and they have called for efforts…

Industrial Electronics. Performance Objectives. Basic Course.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tiffany, Earl

Several intermediate performance objectives and corresponding criterion measures are listed for each of 30 terminal objectives for a two-semester (2 hours daily) high school course in basic industrial electronics. The objectives cover instruction in basic electricity including AC-DC theory, magnetism, electrical safety, care and use of hand tools,…

Relationships between Parenting Styles and the Academic Performance of Adolescents

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rivers, Jewrell; Mullis, Ann K.; Fortner, Lauren A.; Mullis, Ronald L.

2012-01-01

Relationships between parenting styles, academic performance, and the mediating effects of motivation, goal orientation, and self-efficacy were examined. One hundred forty-eight high school students participated, including 58 males and 90 females. The Parenting Style/Parental Involvement Questionnaire was used to measure students' perceptions of…

American Industries. Performance Objectives. Volume 2.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Goldsbury, Paul; And Others

Several intermediate performance objectives and corresponding criterion measures are listed for each of the three categories (Manufacturing, Graphic Communication, and Power) included in this second of a two-volume course guide on American industries. The materials were developed for a 9- to 12-week course for seventh grade students to acquaint…

40 CFR 51.371 - On-road testing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... inspection; notification may be by mailing in the case of remote sensing on-road testing or through immediate... information about the performance of in-use vehicles, by measuring on-road emissions through the use of remote sensing devices or by assessing vehicle emission performance through roadside pullovers including tailpipe...

40 CFR 51.371 - On-road testing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... inspection; notification may be by mailing in the case of remote sensing on-road testing or through immediate... information about the performance of in-use vehicles, by measuring on-road emissions through the use of remote sensing devices or by assessing vehicle emission performance through roadside pullovers including tailpipe...

40 CFR 51.371 - On-road testing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... inspection; notification may be by mailing in the case of remote sensing on-road testing or through immediate... information about the performance of in-use vehicles, by measuring on-road emissions through the use of remote sensing devices or by assessing vehicle emission performance through roadside pullovers including tailpipe...

40 CFR 51.371 - On-road testing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... inspection; notification may be by mailing in the case of remote sensing on-road testing or through immediate... information about the performance of in-use vehicles, by measuring on-road emissions through the use of remote sensing devices or by assessing vehicle emission performance through roadside pullovers including tailpipe...

Maturing Weapon Systems for Improved Availability at Lower Costs

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-01-01

development of new measures of R&M performance and improved data collection and analysis capabilities . Innovations in automated data collection, including the...45 Capabilities Required to Implement Maturation Development ...... 45 Assess R&M Performance Accurately ....................... 46 Identify...Requirements Determination ...................................... 49 Capabilities of the Best Existing Databases ..................... 49 Data Elements Needed

FIELD PERFORMANCE OF WOODBURNING STOVES IN CRESTED BUTTE DURING THE 1991-92 HEATING SEASON

EPA Science Inventory

The report gives results of an evaluation of the 1991-92 field performance of 11 woodburning stoves in and around Crested Butte, CO. Measurements included particulate matter (PM), carbon monoxide, total unburned hydrocarbons, and weekly average burn rates. The monitored stoves in...