Robotics training program: evaluation of the satisfaction and the factors that influence success of skills training in a resident robotics curriculum.

PubMed

Lucas, Steven M; Gilley, David A; Joshi, Shreyas S; Gardner, Thomas A; Sundaram, Chandru P

2011-10-01

We present our experience of training residents in a weekend robotic training program to assess its effectiveness and perceived usefulness. Bimonthly training sessions were arranged such that residents could sign up for hour-long, weekend training sessions. They are required to complete four training sessions. Five tasks were scored for time and accuracy: Peg-Board, checkerboard, string running, pattern cutting, and suturing. Participants completed surveys (5-point Likert scale) regarding program utility, ease of attendance, and interest in future weekend training sessions. Mean number of trials completed by 19 residents was >4, and 16 completed the trials within an average of 13.7±8.1 mos. Significant improvements (P<0.05) were seen in final trials for Peg-Board accuracy (95.8% vs 79.0%), checkerboard deviation (4.8% vs 18.2%), and time (293 s vs 404 s), pattern-cutting time (257 s vs 399 s), and suture time (203 s vs 305 s). Time to previous session correlated with relative improvement in Peg-Board and pattern-cutting time (r=0.300 and 0.277, P=0.021 and 0.041), but no specific training interval was predictive of improvement. Residents found the course easy to attend (3.6), noted skills improvement (4.1), and found it useful (4.0). Training in the weekend sessions improved performance of basic tasks on the robot. Training interval had a modest effect on some exercises and may be more important for difficult tasks. This training program is a useful supplement to resident training and would be easy to implement in most programs.

Evaluation of Cooper 12-minute walk/run test as a marker of cardiorespiratory fitness in young urban children with persistent asthma.

PubMed

Weisgerber, Michael; Danduran, Michael; Meurer, John; Hartmann, Kathryn; Berger, Stuart; Flores, Glenn

2009-07-01

To evaluate Cooper 12-minute run/walk test (CT12) as a one-time estimate of cardiorespiratory fitness and marker of fitness change compared with treadmill fitness testing in young children with persistent asthma. A cohort of urban children with asthma participated in the asthma and exercise program and a subset completed pre- and postintervention fitness testing. Treadmill fitness testing was conducted by an exercise physiologist in the fitness laboratory at an academic children's hospital. CT12 was conducted in a college recreation center gymnasium. Forty-five urban children with persistent asthma aged 7 to 14 years participated in exercise interventions. A subset of 19 children completed pre- and postintervention exercise testing. Participants completed a 9-week exercise program where they participated in either swimming or golf 3 days a week for 1 hour. A subset of participants completed fitness testing by 2 methods before and after program completion. CT12 results (meters), maximal oxygen consumption ((.)Vo2max) (mL x kg(-1) x min(-1)), and treadmill exercise time (minutes). CT12 and maximal oxygen consumption were moderately correlated (preintervention: 0.55, P = 0.003; postintervention: 0.48, P = 0.04) as one-time measures of fitness. Correlations of the tests as markers of change over time were poor and nonsignificant. In children with asthma, CT12 is a reasonable one-time estimate of fitness but a poor marker of fitness change over time.

Predictors of Associate's Degree Completion in Engineering and Engineering Technologies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reys-Nickel, Lynsey L.

The purpose of this ex post facto study was to describe completers and non-completers of associate's degree programs in engineering and engineering technologies and determine whether and to what extent completion in these programs is a function of selected student-related variables and institutional variables. Data from the 2004/2009 Beginning Postsecondary Students Longitudinal Study (BPS: 04/09) of associate's degree completers and non-completers in engineering and engineering technologies were accessed and analyzed through PowerStats, a web-based data analysis tool from National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Descriptive data indicated that, proportionally, engineering and engineering technologies completers were mostly White, married, middle income, employed part-time, enrolled full-time, did not hold a high school diploma or certificate, completed Trigonometry/Algebra II, had a father who's highest education level was an associate's degree, but did not know their mother's highest level of education, completed remedial coursework, and started college with the goal of earning an associate's degree. While more males enrolled in the programs, males and females demonstrated similar completion rates, proportionally--with females showing a slightly higher percentage of completion. Results from the logistic regression further indicated that the variables significant to completion in associate's degree programs in engineering and engineering technologies were gender and enrollment size. Findings suggested that female students were more likely to earn the degree, and that the larger the institution, the more likely the student would become a completer. However, since a major limitation of the study was the small weighted sample size, the results of the study are inconclusive in terms of the extent to which the findings can be generalized to the population of students in associate's degree programs in engineering and engineering technologies. This study fills a gap in the literature of what is known about engineering and engineering technician students. It also contributes to the body of research on an understudied STEM educational and professional pathway, the associate's degree in engineering and engineering technologies.

50 CFR 600.1004 - Accepting a request for, and determinations about initiating, a financed program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... design, propose, and adopt a timely and reliable implementation plan as well as propose and issue timely and reliable implementation regulations and otherwise complete the program in accordance with this...

Program For Parallel Discrete-Event Simulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Beckman, Brian C.; Blume, Leo R.; Geiselman, John S.; Presley, Matthew T.; Wedel, John J., Jr.; Bellenot, Steven F.; Diloreto, Michael; Hontalas, Philip J.; Reiher, Peter L.; Weiland, Frederick P.

1991-01-01

User does not have to add any special logic to aid in synchronization. Time Warp Operating System (TWOS) computer program is special-purpose operating system designed to support parallel discrete-event simulation. Complete implementation of Time Warp mechanism. Supports only simulations and other computations designed for virtual time. Time Warp Simulator (TWSIM) subdirectory contains sequential simulation engine interface-compatible with TWOS. TWOS and TWSIM written in, and support simulations in, C programming language.

Time Warp Operating System, Version 2.5.1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bellenot, Steven F.; Gieselman, John S.; Hawley, Lawrence R.; Peterson, Judy; Presley, Matthew T.; Reiher, Peter L.; Springer, Paul L.; Tupman, John R.; Wedel, John J., Jr.; Wieland, Frederick P.;

Spectral line and continuum studies using Haystack antenna

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1973-01-01

During the last half of 1972, the Haystack antenna was utilized 88% of the time. Of this useful time, 81% was devoted to radio astronomy investigations, 8% was spent on radar-related research and 11% was scheduled for maintenance and system improvements. Thirteen programs were completed of which 10 were spectral-line studies involving primarily recombination lines and H2O vapor investigations. The others involved 2 cm and 1.3 cm continuum observations. Fifteen new programs were accepted and the currently active radio observing programs totalled 24 as of 31 December 1973. The last radar measurements in the lunar topography program have now been completed. Radar activity, including measurements on Mercury, Venus and synchronous satellites has continued.

42 CFR 457.1160 - Program specific review process: Time frames.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 42 Public Health 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Program specific review process: Time frames. 457... process: Time frames. (a) Eligibility or enrollment matter. A State must complete the review of a matter described in § 457.1130(a) within a reasonable amount of time. In setting time frames, the State must...

Does intentional support of degree programs in general surgery residency affect research productivity or pursuit of academic surgery?

PubMed

Joshua Smith, Jesse; Patel, Ravi K; Chen, Xi; Tarpley, Margaret J; Terhune, Kyla P

2014-01-01

Many residents supplement general surgery training with years of dedicated research, and an increasing number at our institution pursue additional degrees. We sought to determine whether it was worth the financial cost for residency programs to support degrees. We reviewed graduating chief residents (n = 69) in general surgery at Vanderbilt University from 2001 to 2010 and collected the data including research time and additional degrees obtained. We then compared this information with the following parameters: (1) total papers, (2) first-author papers, (3) Journal Citation Reports impact factors of journals in which papers were published, and (4) first job after residency or fellowship training. The general surgery resident training program at Vanderbilt University is an academic program, approved to finish training 7 chief residents yearly during the time period studied. Chief residents in general surgery at Vanderbilt who finished their training 2001 through 2010. We found that completion of a degree during residency was significantly associated with more total and first-author publications as compared with those by residents with only dedicated research time (p = 0.001 and p = 0.017). Residents completing a degree also produced publications of a higher caliber and level of authorship as determined by an adjusted resident impact factor score as compared with those by residents with laboratory research time only (p = 0.005). Degree completion also was significantly correlated with a first job in academia if compared to those with dedicated research time only (p = 0.046). Our data support the utility of degree completion when economically feasible and use of dedicated research time as an effective way to significantly increase research productivity and retain graduates in academic surgery. Aggregating data from other academic surgery programs would allow us to further determine association of funding of additional degrees as a means to encourage academic productivity and retention. Copyright © 2014 Association of Program Directors in Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A real time microcomputer implementation of sensor failure detection for turbofan engines

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Delaat, John C.; Merrill, Walter C.

1989-01-01

An algorithm was developed which detects, isolates, and accommodates sensor failures using analytical redundancy. The performance of this algorithm was demonstrated on a full-scale F100 turbofan engine. The algorithm was implemented in real-time on a microprocessor-based controls computer which includes parallel processing and high order language programming. Parallel processing was used to achieve the required computational power for the real-time implementation. High order language programming was used in order to reduce the programming and maintenance costs of the algorithm implementation software. The sensor failure algorithm was combined with an existing multivariable control algorithm to give a complete control implementation with sensor analytical redundancy. The real-time microprocessor implementation of the algorithm which resulted in the successful completion of the algorithm engine demonstration, is described.

Jamie's Ministry of Food: quasi-experimental evaluation of immediate and sustained impacts of a cooking skills program in Australia.

PubMed

Flego, Anna; Herbert, Jessica; Waters, Elizabeth; Gibbs, Lisa; Swinburn, Boyd; Reynolds, John; Moodie, Marj

2014-01-01

To evaluate the immediate and sustained effectiveness of the first Jamie's Ministry of Food Program in Australia on individuals' cooking confidence and positive cooking/eating behaviours. A quasi- experimental repeated measures design was used incorporating a wait-list control group. A questionnaire was developed and administered at baseline (T1), immediately post program (T2) and 6 months post completion (T3) for participants allocated to the intervention group, while wait -list controls completed it 10 weeks prior to program commencement (T1) and just before program commencement (T2). The questionnaire measured: participants' confidence to cook, the frequency of cooking from basic ingredients, and consumption of vegetables, vegetables with the main meal, fruit, ready-made meals and takeaway. Analysis used a linear mixed model approach for repeated measures using all available data to determine mean differences within and between groups over time. All adult participants (≥18 years) who registered and subsequently participated in the program in Ipswich, Queensland, between late November 2011- December 2013, were invited to participate. In the intervention group: 694 completed T1, 383 completed T1 and T2 and 214 completed T1, T2 and T3 assessments. In the wait-list group: 237 completed T1 and 149 completed T1 and T2 assessments. Statistically significant increases within the intervention group (P<0.001) and significant group*time interaction effects (P<0.001) were found in all cooking confidence measures between T1 and T2 as well as cooking from basic ingredients, frequency of eating vegetables with the main meal and daily vegetable intake (0.52 serves/day increase). Statistically significant increases at T2 were sustained at 6 months post program in the intervention group. Jamie's Ministry of Food Program, Australia improved individuals' cooking confidence and cooking/eating behaviours contributing to a healthier diet and is a promising community-based strategy to influence diet quality.

Jamie's Ministry of Food: Quasi-Experimental Evaluation of Immediate and Sustained Impacts of a Cooking Skills Program in Australia

PubMed Central

Flego, Anna; Herbert, Jessica; Waters, Elizabeth; Gibbs, Lisa; Swinburn, Boyd; Reynolds, John; Moodie, Marj

2014-01-01

Objective To evaluate the immediate and sustained effectiveness of the first Jamie's Ministry of Food Program in Australia on individuals' cooking confidence and positive cooking/eating behaviours. Methods A quasi- experimental repeated measures design was used incorporating a wait-list control group. A questionnaire was developed and administered at baseline (T1), immediately post program (T2) and 6 months post completion (T3) for participants allocated to the intervention group, while wait -list controls completed it 10 weeks prior to program commencement (T1) and just before program commencement (T2). The questionnaire measured: participants' confidence to cook, the frequency of cooking from basic ingredients, and consumption of vegetables, vegetables with the main meal, fruit, ready-made meals and takeaway. Analysis used a linear mixed model approach for repeated measures using all available data to determine mean differences within and between groups over time. Subjects All adult participants (≥18 years) who registered and subsequently participated in the program in Ipswich, Queensland, between late November 2011- December 2013, were invited to participate. Results In the intervention group: 694 completed T1, 383 completed T1 and T2 and 214 completed T1, T2 and T3 assessments. In the wait-list group: 237 completed T1 and 149 completed T1 and T2 assessments. Statistically significant increases within the intervention group (P<0.001) and significant group*time interaction effects (P<0.001) were found in all cooking confidence measures between T1 and T2 as well as cooking from basic ingredients, frequency of eating vegetables with the main meal and daily vegetable intake (0.52 serves/day increase). Statistically significant increases at T2 were sustained at 6 months post program in the intervention group. Conclusions Jamie's Ministry of Food Program, Australia improved individuals' cooking confidence and cooking/eating behaviours contributing to a healthier diet and is a promising community-based strategy to influence diet quality. PMID:25514531

Clinical and Morphological Changes Following 2 Rehabilitation Programs for Acute Hamstring Strain Injuries: A Randomized Clinical Trial

PubMed Central

SILDER, AMY; SHERRY, MARC A.; SANFILIPPO, JENNIFER; TUITE, MICHAEL J.; HETZEL, SCOTT J.; HEIDERSCHEIT, BRYAN C.

2013-01-01

STUDY DESIGN Randomized, double-blind, parallel-group clinical trial. OBJECTIVES To assess differences between a progressive agility and trunk stabilization rehabilitation program and a progressive running and eccentric strengthening rehabilitation program in recovery characteristics following an acute hamstring injury, as measured via physical examination and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). BACKGROUND Determining the type of rehabilitation program that most effectively promotes muscle and functional recovery is essential to minimize reinjury risk and to optimize athlete performance. METHODS Individuals who sustained a recent hamstring strain injury were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 rehabilitation programs: (1) progressive agility and trunk stabilization or (2) progressive running and eccentric strengthening. MRI and physical examinations were conducted before and after completion of rehabilitation. RESULTS Thirty-one subjects were enrolled, 29 began rehabilitation, and 25 completed rehabilitation. There were few differences in clinical or morphological outcome measures between rehabilitation groups across time, and reinjury rates were low for both rehabilitation groups after return to sport (4 of 29 subjects had reinjuries). Greater craniocaudal length of injury, as measured on MRI before the start of rehabilitation, was positively correlated with longer return-to-sport time. At the time of return to sport, although all subjects showed a near-complete resolution of pain and return of muscle strength, no subject showed complete resolution of injury as assessed on MRI. CONCLUSION The 2 rehabilitation programs employed in this study yielded similar results with respect to hamstring muscle recovery and function at the time of return to sport. Evidence of continuing muscular healing is present after completion of rehabilitation, despite the appearance of normal physical strength and function on clinical examination. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Therapy, level 1b–. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2013;43(5):284-299. Epub 13 March 2013. doi:10.2519/jospt.2013.4452 PMID:23485730

Student Satisfaction with Graduate Supervision in Doctoral Programs Primarily Delivered in Distance Education Settings

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Erichsen, Elizabeth Anne; Bolliger, Doris U.; Halupa, Colleen

2014-01-01

There are no universal, precise, or explicit criteria for completing a doctoral degree successfully. Researchers and practitioners have pointed out how difficult and time consuming the supervision of graduate student research can be. When students in doctoral programs complete their degrees via distance delivery, supervision of graduate students…

Perceived barriers to completing an e-learning program on evidence-based medicine.

PubMed

Gagnon, Marie-Pierre; Légaré, France; Labrecque, Michel; Frémont, Pierre; Cauchon, Michel; Desmartis, Marie

2007-01-01

The Continuing Professional Development Center of the Faculty of Medicine at Laval University offers an internet-based program on evidence-based medicine (EBM). After one year, only three physicians out of the 40 who willingly paid to register had completed the entire program. This descriptive study aimed to identify physicians' beliefs regarding their completion of this online program. Using theoretical concepts from the Theory of Planned Behaviour, a semi-structured telephone interview guide was developed to assess respondents' attitudes, perceived subjective norms, perceived obstacles and facilitating conditions with respect to completing this internet-based program. Three independent reviewers performed content analysis of the interview transcripts to obtain an appropriate level of reliability. Findings were shared and organised according to theoretical categories of beliefs. A total of 35 physicians (88% response rate) were interviewed. Despite perceived advantages to completing the internet-based program, barriers remained, especially those related to physicians' perceptions of time constraints. Lack of personal discipline and unfamiliarity with computers were also perceived as important barriers. This study offers a theoretical basis to understand physicians' beliefs towards completing an internet-based continuing medical education (CME) program on EBM. Based upon respondents' insights, several modifications were carried out to enhance the uptake of the program by physicians and, therefore, its implementation.

A cost/benefit analysis of commercial fusion-fission hybrid reactor development

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kostoff, Ronald N.

1983-04-01

A simple algorithm was developed that allows rapid computation of the ratio, R, of present worth of benefits to present worth of hybrid R&D program costs as a function of potential hybrid unit electricity cost savings, discount rate, electricity demand growth rate, total hybrid R&D program cost, and time to complete a demonstration reactor. In the sensitivity study, these variables were assigned nominal values (unit electricity cost savings of 4 mills/kW-hr, discount rate of 4%/year, growth rate of 2.25%/year, total R&D program cost of 20 billion, and time to complete a demonstration reactor of 30 years), and the variable of interest was varied about its nominal value. Results show that R increases with decreasing discount rate and increasing unit electricity savings and ranges from 4 to 94 as discount rate ranges from 5 to 3%/year and unit electricity savings range from 2 to 6 mills/kW-hr. R increases with increasing growth rate and ranges from 3 to 187 as growth rate ranges from 1 to 3.5%/year and unit electricity cost savings range from 2 to 6 mills/kW-hr. R attains a maximum value when plotted against time to complete a demonstration reactor. The location of this maximum value occurs at shorter completion times as discount rate increases, and this optimal completion time ranges from 20 years for a discount rate of 4%/year to 45 years for a discount rate of 3%/year.

Implementation of laparoscopic hysterectomy: maintenance of skills after a mentorship program.

PubMed

Twijnstra, A R H; Blikkendaal, M D; Kolkman, W; Smeets, M J G H; Rhemrev, J P T; Jansen, F W

2010-01-01

To evaluate the implementation and maintenance of advanced laparoscopic skills after a structured mentorship program in laparoscopic hysterectomy (LH). Cohort retrospective analysis of 104 successive LHs performed by two gynecologists during and after a mentorship program. LHs were compared for indication, patient characteristics and intraoperative characteristics. As a frame of reference, 94 LHs performed by the mentor were analyzed. With regard to indication, blood loss and adverse outcomes, both trainees performed LHs during their mentorship program comparable with the LHs performed by the mentor. The difference in mean operating time between trainees and mentor was not clinically significant. Both trainees progressed along a learning curve, while operating time remained statistically constant and comparable to that of the mentor. After completing the mentorship program, both gynecologists maintained their acquired skills as blood loss, adverse outcome rates and operating time were comparable with the results during their traineeship. A mentorship program is an effective and durable tool for implementing a new surgical procedure in a teaching hospital with respect to patient safety aspects, as indications, operating time and adverse outcome rates are comparable to those of the mentor in his own hospital during and after completing the mentorship program. Copyright © 2010 S. Karger AG, Basel.

The State of Doctoral Education in Social Sciences in Uganda: Experiences and Challenges of Doctoral Training at Mbarara University of Science and Technology 2003-2010

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Muriisa, Roberts Kabeba

2015-01-01

This paper discusses the challenges and experiences which social science students in Africa undergo to complete the PhD program. Focusing on Mbarara University of Science and Technology, the paper present that many students who register on the PhD program in Africa, are unable to complete the program in the stipulated time. The paper identifies…

33 CFR Appendix B to Part 263 - Application of Multiobjective Planning Framework to Continuing Authorities Program

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... Authorities Program 1. General. The planning process described in the ER 1105-2-200 series of regulations... at the same time keeping the requirements for information and analyses consistent with the scope of the study, solutions recommended, and the Program completion-time objectives outlined in § 263.18 of...

33 CFR Appendix B to Part 263 - Application of Multiobjective Planning Framework to Continuing Authorities Program

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... Authorities Program 1. General. The planning process described in the ER 1105-2-200 series of regulations... at the same time keeping the requirements for information and analyses consistent with the scope of the study, solutions recommended, and the Program completion-time objectives outlined in § 263.18 of...

33 CFR Appendix B to Part 263 - Application of Multiobjective Planning Framework to Continuing Authorities Program

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... Authorities Program 1. General. The planning process described in the ER 1105-2-200 series of regulations... at the same time keeping the requirements for information and analyses consistent with the scope of the study, solutions recommended, and the Program completion-time objectives outlined in § 263.18 of...

33 CFR Appendix B to Part 263 - Application of Multiobjective Planning Framework to Continuing Authorities Program

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Authorities Program 1. General. The planning process described in the ER 1105-2-200 series of regulations... at the same time keeping the requirements for information and analyses consistent with the scope of the study, solutions recommended, and the Program completion-time objectives outlined in § 263.18 of...

33 CFR Appendix B to Part 263 - Application of Multiobjective Planning Framework to Continuing Authorities Program

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... Authorities Program 1. General. The planning process described in the ER 1105-2-200 series of regulations... at the same time keeping the requirements for information and analyses consistent with the scope of the study, solutions recommended, and the Program completion-time objectives outlined in § 263.18 of...

Doing More with Less: Marketing Educational Programs in Times of Declining Tuition Assistance.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Breckon, Donald J.

Degree completion programs on military installations are large, effective programs, with substantial support. Education will never be more convenient or less expensive for students. Education is a product military personnel need and want. In a time of declining tuition assistance, it is up to colleges that deal with the military to market their…

Guided Pathways to College Completion. Policy Snapshot

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fulton, Mary

2017-01-01

Guided pathways are emerging as a strategy to help students complete a credential in a timely manner by encouraging or requiring them to select a program, and develop a degree plan or map, on a specified timeline. At a minimum, institutions may ask students to identify a meta-major, which is a broad area of academic programs with related courses…

Index to Computer Assisted Instruction.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lekan, Helen A., Ed.

The computer assisted instruction (CAI) programs and projects described in this index are listed by subject matter. The index gives the program name, author, source, description, prerequisites, level of instruction, type of student, average completion time, logic and program, purpose for which program was designed, supplementary…

The treatment of medial tibial stress syndrome in athletes; a randomized clinical trial

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background The only three randomized trials on the treatment of MTSS were all performed in military populations. The treatment options investigated in this study were not previously examined in athletes. This study investigated if functional outcome of three common treatment options for medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS) in athletes in a non-military setting was the same. Methods The study design was randomized and multi-centered. Physical therapists and sports physicians referred athletes with MTSS to the hospital for inclusion. 81 athletes were assessed for eligibility of which 74 athletes were included and randomized to three treatment groups. Group one performed a graded running program, group two performed a graded running program with additional stretching and strengthening exercises for the calves, while group three performed a graded running program with an additional sports compression stocking. The primary outcome measure was: time to complete a running program (able to run 18 minutes with high intensity) and secondary outcome was: general satisfaction with treatment. Results 74 Athletes were randomized and included of which 14 did not complete the study due a lack of progress (18.9%). The data was analyzed on an intention-to-treat basis. Time to complete a running program and general satisfaction with the treatment were not significantly different between the three treatment groups. Conclusion This was the first randomized trial on the treatment of MTSS in athletes in a non-military setting. No differences were found between the groups for the time to complete a running program. Trial registration CCMO; NL23471.098.08 PMID:22464032

Impact of Time Lapse on ASCP Board of Certification Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) and Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) Examination Scores.

PubMed

Brown, Karen A; Fenn, JoAnn P; Freeman, Vicki S; Fisher, Patrick B; Genzen, Jonathan R; Goodyear, Nancy; Houston, Mary Lunz; O'Brien, Mary Elizabeth; Tanabe, Patricia A

2015-01-01

Research in several professional fields has demonstrated that delays (time lapse) in taking certification examinations may result in poorer performance by examinees. Thirteen states and/or territories require licensure for laboratory personnel. A core component of licensure is passing a certification exam. Also, many facilities in states that do not require licensure require certification for employment or preferentially hire certified individuals. To analyze examinee performance on the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Board of Certification (BOC) Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) and Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) certification examinations to determine whether delays in taking the examination from the time of program completion are associated with poorer performance. We obtained examination data from April 2013 through December 2014 to look for changes in mean (SD) exam scaled scores and overall pass/fail rates. First-time examinees (MLS: n = 6037; MLT, n = 3920) were divided into 3-month categories based on the interval of time between date of program completion and taking the certification exam. We observed significant decreases in mean (SD) scaled scores and pass rates after the first quarter in MLS and MLT examinations for applicants who delayed taking their examination until the second, third, and fourth quarter after completing their training programs. Those who take the ASCP BOC MLS and MLT examinations are encouraged to do so shortly after completion of their educational training programs. Delays in taking an exam are generally not beneficial to the examinee and result in poorer performance on the exam. Copyright© by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).

A Novel Approach to Practice-Based Learning and Improvement Using a Web-Based Audit and Feedback Module.

PubMed

Boggan, Joel C; Cheely, George; Shah, Bimal R; Heffelfinger, Randy; Springall, Deanna; Thomas, Samantha M; Zaas, Aimee; Bae, Jonathan

2014-09-01

Systematically engaging residents in large programs in quality improvement (QI) is challenging. To coordinate a shared QI project in a large residency program using an online tool. A web-based QI tool guided residents through a 2-phase evaluation of performance of foot examinations in patients with diabetes. In phase 1, residents completed reviews of health records with online data entry. Residents were then presented with personal performance data relative to peers and were prompted to develop improvement plans. In phase 2, residents again reviewed personal performance. Rates of performance were compared at the program and clinic levels for each phase, with data presented for residents. Acceptability was measured by the number of residents completing each phase. Feasibility was measured by estimated faculty, programmer, and administrator time and costs. Seventy-nine of 86 eligible residents (92%) completed improvement plans and reviewed 1471 patients in phase 1, whereas 68 residents (79%) reviewed 1054 patient charts in phase 2. Rates of performance of examination increased significantly between phases (from 52% to 73% for complete examination, P < .001). Development of the tool required 130 hours of programmer time. Project analysis and management required 6 hours of administrator and faculty time monthly. An online tool developed and implemented for program-wide QI initiatives successfully engaged residents to participate in QI activities. Residents using this tool demonstrated improvement in a selected quality target. This tool could be adapted by other graduate medical education programs or for faculty development.

The value of internship in graduate medical education: survey of emergency medicine residents and program directors.

PubMed

Ray, Adam M

2007-01-01

To assess the opinions of emergency medicine (EM) residents and program directors about the value of completing a nonrequired 1-year internship before entering an EM residency program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). An eight-question, self-administered online survey was e-mailed to EM residents who had completed a nonrequired internship before entering ACGME-accredited residency programs. A separate, six-question survey was e-mailed to program directors of ACGME-accredited programs that do not require an internship who had ever had a resident who had completed a nonrequired internship. Forty-six (27 [59%] osteopathic, 19 [41%] allopathic) of 113 residents and 40 of 124 program directors responded to the survey questions. Less than 4% of residents completed a separate nonrequired 1-year internship. The most common reason for completing a nonrequired internship was to obtain licensure by the American Osteopathic Association (19 [41%]). Most residents believed that they were more proficient with history-taking and physical examinations (38 [83%]) and procedures (34 [74%]) during the first year of residency than their colleagues who did not complete an internship, but this percentage decreased over time. The program directors had similar opinions. Most osteopathic residents who completed the internship for osteopathic licensure would not have done so if it were not required. Most (39 of 40) program directors would not recommend taking a nonrequired internship. Completing a 1-year internship before entering an EM residency program may better prepare physicians for their first year of residency in terms of basic clinical competancy, but further study is needed in this area.

[Completion Study Report on Completion Problems in the Ph.D. Program at Chicago (University of).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cunningham, Phyllis; And Others

Based on adult education students who completed Ph.D. work in the Department of Education, University of Chicago, during 1960-69, this study examined the problems they perceive in completing doctoral study. Eighty-five doctoral graduates submitted usable questionnaires. Data were obtained on completion time as related to such variables as number…

Improving completion rates of students in biomedical PhD programs: an interventional study.

PubMed

Viđak, Marin; Tokalić, Ružica; Marušić, Matko; Puljak, Livia; Sapunar, Damir

2017-08-25

Analysis of graduation success at the University of Split School of Medicine PhD programs conducted in 2011 revealed that only 11% of students who enrolled and completed their graduate coursework between 1999 and 2011 earned a doctoral degree. In this prospective cohort study we evaluated and compared three PhD programs within the same medical school, where the newest program, called Translational Research in Biomedicine (TRIBE), established in the academic year 2010/11, aimed to increase the graduation rate through an innovative approach. The intervention in the new program was related to three domains: redefined recruitment strategy, strict study regulations, and changes to the curriculum. We compared performance of PhD students between the new and existing programs and analyzed their current status, time to obtain a degree (from enrolment to doctorate), age at doctorate, number of publications on which the thesis was based and the impact factor of journals in which these were published. These improvement strategies were associated with higher thesis completion rate and reduced time to degree for students enrolled in the TRIBE program. There was no change in the impact factor or number of publications that were the basis for the doctoral theses. Our study describes good practices which proved useful in the design or reform of the PhD training program.

Comparing errors in ED computer-assisted vs conventional pediatric drug dosing and administration.

PubMed

Yamamoto, Loren; Kanemori, Joan

2010-06-01

Compared to fixed-dose single-vial drug administration in adults, pediatric drug dosing and administration requires a series of calculations, all of which are potentially error prone. The purpose of this study is to compare error rates and task completion times for common pediatric medication scenarios using computer program assistance vs conventional methods. Two versions of a 4-part paper-based test were developed. Each part consisted of a set of medication administration and/or dosing tasks. Emergency department and pediatric intensive care unit nurse volunteers completed these tasks using both methods (sequence assigned to start with a conventional or a computer-assisted approach). Completion times, errors, and the reason for the error were recorded. Thirty-eight nurses completed the study. Summing the completion of all 4 parts, the mean conventional total time was 1243 seconds vs the mean computer program total time of 879 seconds (P < .001). The conventional manual method had a mean of 1.8 errors vs the computer program with a mean of 0.7 errors (P < .001). Of the 97 total errors, 36 were due to misreading the drug concentration on the label, 34 were due to calculation errors, and 8 were due to misplaced decimals. Of the 36 label interpretation errors, 18 (50%) occurred with digoxin or insulin. Computerized assistance reduced errors and the time required for drug administration calculations. A pattern of errors emerged, noting that reading/interpreting certain drug labels were more error prone. Optimizing the layout of drug labels could reduce the error rate for error-prone labels. Copyright (c) 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

An Exploration of Factors Affecting Persistence to Degree Completion in an Undergraduate Music Education Program

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gavin, Russell B.

2016-01-01

The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of students (N = 26) in an undergraduate music education degree program in an attempt to identify commonalities among students persisting to degree completion. All participants were in their final year of the music education degree at the time of the study. Multiple data collection methods…

Reflections on the Status of Women Faculty: Part-Timers in Baccalaureate Nursing Programs.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hawkins, Joellen W.; And Others

The use of part-time faculty in baccalaureate nursing programs and the views of part-timers about part-time employment were studies in two phases. The first phase was a descriptive exploration of the use of part-time faculty conducted in 1979 using questionnaires completed by administrative officers. Responses from administrators of 91…

User's manual for THPLOT, A FORTRAN 77 Computer program for time history plotting

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Murray, J. E.

1982-01-01

A general purpose FORTRAN 77 computer program (THPLOT) for plotting time histories using Calcomp pen plotters is described. The program is designed to read a time history data file and to generate time history plots for selected time intervals and/or selected data channels. The capabilities of the program are described. The card input required to define the plotting operation is described and examples of card input and the resulting plotted output are given. The examples are followed by a description of the printed output, including both normal output and error messages. Lastly, implementation of the program is described. A complete listing of the program with reference maps produced by the CDC FTN 5.0 compiler is included.

33 CFR 263.18 - Program completion-time objectives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... submission of funding request or negative report to OCE 2 1 2 (b) Completion of feasibility study by... these objectives is encouraged for specific studies and projects when appropriate. However, high...

33 CFR 263.18 - Program completion-time objectives.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... submission of funding request or negative report to OCE 2 1 2 (b) Completion of feasibility study by... these objectives is encouraged for specific studies and projects when appropriate. However, high...

GEODYN programmer's guide, volume 2, part 2. [computer program for estimation of orbit and geodetic parameters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mullins, N. E.; Dao, N. C.; Martin, T. V.; Goad, C. C.; Boulware, N. L.; Chin, M. M.

1972-01-01

A computer program for executive control routine for orbit integration of artificial satellites is presented. At the beginning of each arc, the program initiates required constants as well as the variational partials at epoch. If epoch needs to be reset to a previous time, the program negates the stepsize, and calls for integration backward to the desired time. After backward integration is completed, the program resets the stepsize to the proper positive quantity.

76 FR 31682 - Agency Information Collection (Time Record (Work-Study Program)) Activity Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-06-01

... Record (Work-Study Program)) Activity Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits Administration... refer to ``OMB Control No. 2900-0379.'' SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Title: Time Record (Work-Study... work-study hours a claimant has completed. When a claimant elects to receive an advance payment, VA...

43 CFR 404.42 - How much time is provided to complete an appraisal investigation?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 43 Public Lands: Interior 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false How much time is provided to complete an appraisal investigation? 404.42 Section 404.42 Public Lands: Interior Regulations Relating to Public Lands BUREAU OF RECLAMATION, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR RECLAMATION RURAL WATER SUPPLY PROGRAM Appraisal...

JPL Energy Consumption Program (ECP) documentation: A computer model simulating heating, cooling and energy loads in buildings. [low cost solar array efficiency

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lansing, F. L.; Chai, V. W.; Lascu, D.; Urbenajo, R.; Wong, P.

1978-01-01

The engineering manual provides a complete companion documentation about the structure of the main program and subroutines, the preparation of input data, the interpretation of output results, access and use of the program, and the detailed description of all the analytic, logical expressions and flow charts used in computations and program structure. A numerical example is provided and solved completely to show the sequence of computations followed. The program is carefully structured to reduce both user's time and costs without sacrificing accuracy. The user would expect a cost of CPU time of approximately $5.00 per building zone excluding printing costs. The accuracy, on the other hand, measured by deviation of simulated consumption from watt-hour meter readings, was found by many simulation tests not to exceed + or - 10 percent margin.

A Scenario-Based Virtual Patient Program to Support Substance Misuse Education.

PubMed

Zlotos, Leon; Power, Ailsa; Hill, Duncan; Chapman, Paul

2016-04-25

Objective. To evaluate virtual patient (VP) programs for injecting equipment provision (IEP) and opiate substitution therapy (OST) services with respect to confidence and knowledge among preregistration pharmacist trainees. Methods. Preregistration trainee pharmacists pilot-tested the VP programs and were invited to complete pre/post and 6-month assessments of knowledge and perceived confidence. Results. One hundred six trainees participated and completed the pre/postassessments. Forty-six (43.4%) participants repeated the assessments at six months. Scores in perceived confidence increased in all domains at both time points postprogram. Knowledge scores were greater posteducation than preeducation. Knowledge scores were also greater six months after education than preeducation. Knowledge scores at six months were lower than posteducation for both programs. Conclusion. Virtual patients programs increased preregistration pharmacists' knowledge and confidence with regard to IEP and OST immediately after use and at six months postprogram. There was a loss of clinical knowledge over time but confidence change was sustained.

Assessment of virtual reality robotic simulation performance by urology resident trainees.

PubMed

Ruparel, Raaj K; Taylor, Abby S; Patel, Janil; Patel, Vipul R; Heckman, Michael G; Rawal, Bhupendra; Leveillee, Raymond J; Thiel, David D

2014-01-01

To examine resident performance on the Mimic dV-Trainer (MdVT; Mimic Technologies, Inc., Seattle, WA) for correlation with resident trainee level (postgraduate year [PGY]), console experience (CE), and simulator exposure in their training program to assess for internal bias with the simulator. Residents from programs of the Southeastern Section of the American Urologic Association participated. Each resident was scored on 4 simulator tasks (peg board, camera targeting, energy dissection [ED], and needle targeting) with 3 different outcomes (final score, economy of motion score, and time to complete exercise) measured for each task. These scores were evaluated for association with PGY, CE, and simulator exposure. Robotic skills training laboratory. A total of 27 residents from 14 programs of the Southeastern Section of the American Urologic Association participated. Time to complete the ED exercise was significantly shorter for residents who had logged live robotic console compared with those who had not (p = 0.003). There were no other associations with live robotic console time that approached significance (all p ≥ 0.21). The only measure that was significantly associated with PGY was time to complete ED exercise (p = 0.009). No associations with previous utilization of a robotic simulator in the resident's home training program were statistically significant. The ED exercise on the MdVT is most associated with CE and PGY compared with other exercises. Exposure of trainees to the MdVT in training programs does not appear to alter performance scores compared with trainees who do not have the simulator. © 2013 Published by Association of Program Directors in Surgery on behalf of Association of Program Directors in Surgery.

A Novel Approach to Practice-Based Learning and Improvement Using a Web-Based Audit and Feedback Module

PubMed Central

Boggan, Joel C.; Cheely, George; Shah, Bimal R.; Heffelfinger, Randy; Springall, Deanna; Thomas, Samantha M.; Zaas, Aimee; Bae, Jonathan

2014-01-01

Background Systematically engaging residents in large programs in quality improvement (QI) is challenging. Objective To coordinate a shared QI project in a large residency program using an online tool. Methods A web-based QI tool guided residents through a 2-phase evaluation of performance of foot examinations in patients with diabetes. In phase 1, residents completed reviews of health records with online data entry. Residents were then presented with personal performance data relative to peers and were prompted to develop improvement plans. In phase 2, residents again reviewed personal performance. Rates of performance were compared at the program and clinic levels for each phase, with data presented for residents. Acceptability was measured by the number of residents completing each phase. Feasibility was measured by estimated faculty, programmer, and administrator time and costs. Results Seventy-nine of 86 eligible residents (92%) completed improvement plans and reviewed 1471 patients in phase 1, whereas 68 residents (79%) reviewed 1054 patient charts in phase 2. Rates of performance of examination increased significantly between phases (from 52% to 73% for complete examination, P < .001). Development of the tool required 130 hours of programmer time. Project analysis and management required 6 hours of administrator and faculty time monthly. Conclusions An online tool developed and implemented for program-wide QI initiatives successfully engaged residents to participate in QI activities. Residents using this tool demonstrated improvement in a selected quality target. This tool could be adapted by other graduate medical education programs or for faculty development. PMID:26279782

20 CFR 411.180 - What is timely progress toward self-supporting employment?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... representing a trial work service month), and complete 66.7 percent of the requisite credit hours in an... hours that are considered to represent an academic year of full-time study in the program by the end of... credit hours that are considered to represent an academic year of full-time study in the program by the...

Computerized Systems for Collecting Real-Time Observational Data.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kahng, SungWoo; Iwata, Brian

1998-01-01

A survey of 15 developers of computerized real-time observation systems found many systems have incorporated laptop or handheld computers as well as bar-code scanners. Most systems used IBM-compatible software, and ranged from free to complete systems costing more than $1,500. Data analysis programs were included with most programs. (Author/CR)

Job Future's Bright for the Chefs of Muskingum Tech.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hoffman, Carl

1993-01-01

A two-year culinary arts program at Muskingum College (Zanesville, Ohio) prepares students for jobs in an emerging service-based economy. Students receive intensive classroom instruction and hands-on learning in a high-tech kitchen. Twenty-five full-time and 12 part-time students are completing their first year in the program. (LP)

Media Adjunct Programming: An Individualized Media-Managed Approach to Academic Pilot Training.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McCombs, Barbara Leherissey; And Others

Media adjunct programing (MAP) techniques for presenting individualized, self-paced instruction were compared to traditional instructor-classroom (TIC) techniques in an undergraduate pilot Weather course. The MAP group completed the course in significantly less time than did the TIC group, representing a 29 percent time savings. In addition, MAP…

Long Live Love+: evaluation of the implementation of an online school-based sexuality education program in the Netherlands.

PubMed

van Lieshout, Sanne; Mevissen, Fraukje; de Waal, Esri; Kok, Gerjo

2017-06-01

Schools are a common setting for adolescents to receive health education, but implementation of these programs with high levels of completeness and fidelity is not self-evident. Programs that are only partially implemented (completeness) or not implemented as instructed (fidelity) are unlikely to be effective. Therefore, it is important to identify which determinants affect completeness and fidelity of program implementation. As part of the launch of Long Live Love+ (LLL+), an online school-based sexuality education program for adolescents aged 15-17, we performed a process evaluation among teachers and students to measure the levels of completeness and fidelity, identify factors influencing teachers' implementation, and to evaluate the students' response. Sixteen Biology teachers from nine secondary schools throughout the Netherlands who implemented LLL+ were interviewed and 60 students participated in 13 focus group discussions. Results showed that teachers' completeness ranged between 22-100% (M = 75%). Fidelity was high, but many teachers added elements. Teachers and students enjoyed LLL+, particularly the diversity in the exercises and its interactive character. The most important factors that influenced implementation were time and organizational constraints, lack of awareness on the impact of completeness and fidelity, and student response. These factors should be taken into account when developing school-based prevention programs. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

29 CFR 29.7 - Apprenticeship agreement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... spent by the apprentice in work on the job in a time-based program; or a description of the skill sets to be attained by completion of a competency-based program, including the on-the-job learning...

The Feasibility of Real-Time Intraoperative Performance Assessment With SIMPL (System for Improving and Measuring Procedural Learning): Early Experience From a Multi-institutional Trial.

PubMed

Bohnen, Jordan D; George, Brian C; Williams, Reed G; Schuller, Mary C; DaRosa, Debra A; Torbeck, Laura; Mullen, John T; Meyerson, Shari L; Auyang, Edward D; Chipman, Jeffrey G; Choi, Jennifer N; Choti, Michael A; Endean, Eric D; Foley, Eugene F; Mandell, Samuel P; Meier, Andreas H; Smink, Douglas S; Terhune, Kyla P; Wise, Paul E; Soper, Nathaniel J; Zwischenberger, Joseph B; Lillemoe, Keith D; Dunnington, Gary L; Fryer, Jonathan P

Intraoperative performance assessment of residents is of growing interest to trainees, faculty, and accreditors. Current approaches to collect such assessments are limited by low participation rates and long delays between procedure and evaluation. We deployed an innovative, smartphone-based tool, SIMPL (System for Improving and Measuring Procedural Learning), to make real-time intraoperative performance assessment feasible for every case in which surgical trainees participate, and hypothesized that SIMPL could be feasibly integrated into surgical training programs. Between September 1, 2015 and February 29, 2016, 15 U.S. general surgery residency programs were enrolled in an institutional review board-approved trial. SIMPL was made available after 70% of faculty and residents completed a 1-hour training session. Descriptive and univariate statistics analyzed multiple dimensions of feasibility, including training rates, volume of assessments, response rates/times, and dictation rates. The 20 most active residents and attendings were evaluated in greater detail. A total of 90% of eligible users (1267/1412) completed training. Further, 13/15 programs began using SIMPL. Totally, 6024 assessments were completed by 254 categorical general surgery residents (n = 3555 assessments) and 259 attendings (n = 2469 assessments), and 3762 unique operations were assessed. There was significant heterogeneity in participation within and between programs. Mean percentage (range) of users who completed ≥1, 5, and 20 assessments were 62% (21%-96%), 34% (5%-75%), and 10% (0%-32%) across all programs, and 96%, 75%, and 32% in the most active program. Overall, response rate was 70%, dictation rate was 24%, and mean response time was 12 hours. Assessments increased from 357 (September 2015) to 1146 (February 2016). The 20 most active residents each received mean 46 assessments by 10 attendings for 20 different procedures. SIMPL can be feasibly integrated into surgical training programs to enhance the frequency and timeliness of intraoperative performance assessment. We believe SIMPL could help facilitate a national competency-based surgical training system, although local and systemic challenges still need to be addressed. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Performance of High School Students in a Laparoscopic Training Program.

PubMed

Furer, Scott; Alam, Sarah; Rosser, James

2017-01-01

We hypothesized that high school students can be subjected to the same laparoscopic surgical training curriculum used by surgeons and successfully complete it. The goal of this study was to evaluate the appropriateness of early training in minimally invasive surgical techniques. Thirteen high school students, ages 15-18, participated in the validated Top Gun Surgeon Laparoscopic Skills and Suturing program. The students performed 3 preparatory drills 10 times each. The students' scores were then compared to a database of 393 surgeons. Performance graphs were prepared to allow comparison of skills acquisition between the 2 training groups. All 13 students successfully completed the tasks. The Students' performance (expressed as time/percentile range/average percentile) for each task were as follows: rope pass 101.8 seconds/3.8-47.1/11.8; bean drop 149.5 seconds/18.7-96.0/59.4; triangle transfer 303.2 seconds/1.3-16.0/5.8. The students started each drill with slower times, but their average improvement (decreased time to complete tasks) was more rapid than that of the surgeons between the first and second trials for each drill (-83 seconds vs -25 seconds, -120 seconds vs -53 seconds, -100 seconds vs -60 seconds). Average student times compared to average surgeon times during the last trials measured were not significantly different in the triangle transfer and rope pass drills ( P = .40 and .18, respectively). Students' times were significantly faster than surgeons' in the last measured trial of the bean drop ( P = .039). Despite the small sample size, this investigation suggests that high school students can successfully complete skill-building programs in minimally invasive surgery. Further study is needed to evaluate the appropriateness of starting surgical training of future residents at an earlier stage of their careers.

SIG: a general-purpose signal processing program. User's manual. Revision 1

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

Lager, D.; Azevedo, S.

1985-05-09

SIG is a general-purpose signal processing, analysis, and display program. Its main purpose is to perform manipulations on time-domain and frequenccy-domain signals. The manual contains a complete description of the SIG program from the user's stand-point. A brief exercise in using SIG is shown. Complete descriptions are given of each command in the SIG core. General information about the SIG structure, command processor, and graphics options are provided. An example usage of SIG for solving a problem is developed, and error message formats are briefly discussed. (LEW)

User documentation for the FHWA Carpool Matching Program (second edition)

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

Not Available

1975-01-01

This document provides persons interested in computerized carpool/buspool matching programs a complete description of the user documentation for the FHWA Carpool Matching Program. The FHWA program is written in American National Standard COBOL and thus should be readily transferable to environments other than the IBM 360/65 (OS) under which it has been developed and tested. The program has a compiled time core requirement of 110K and a maximum execution time core requirement of 110K. While considerable effort has been made to test the program in several applications and to achieve accuracy and completeness in the program and supporting documentation, themore » FHWA cannot guarantee the proper operation of this program by any user nor can it assume liability for any damage, loss, or inconvenience resulting from the operation of this program or the results obtained thereby. This present version of the carpool matching program represents the latest version of the first generation of an ongoing multi-phase process of improvements and refinements. The ultimate goal is an effective carpool and transit information system that will produce individualized information covering not only carpooling opportunities, but also transit routing, scheduling, and other identifying information for the commuter. (MCW)« less

Purposive Facebook Recruitment Endows Cost-Effective Nutrition Education Program Evaluation

PubMed Central

Wamboldt, Patricia

2013-01-01

Background Recent legislation established a requirement for nutrition education in federal assistance programs to be evidence-based. Recruitment of low-income persons to participate and evaluate nutrition education activities can be challenging and costly. Facebook has been shown to be a cost-effective strategy to recruit this target audience to a nutrition program. Objective The purpose of our study was to examine Facebook as a strategy to recruit participants, especially Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed) eligible persons, to view and evaluate an online nutrition education program intended to be offered as having some evidence base for SNAP-Ed programming. Methods English-speaking, low-income Pennsylvania residents, 18-55 years with key profile words (eg, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Food bank), responded to a Facebook ad inviting participation in either Eating Together as a Family is Worth It (WI) or Everyone Needs Folic Acid (FA). Participants completed an online survey on food-related behaviors, viewed a nutrition education program, and completed a program evaluation. Facebook set-up functions considered were costing action, daily spending cap, and population reach. Results Respondents for both WI and FA evaluations were similar; the majority were white, <40 years, overweight or obese body mass index, and not eating competent. A total of 807 Facebook users clicked on the WI ad with 73 unique site visitors and 47 of them completing the program evaluation (ie, 47/807, 5.8% of clickers and 47/73, 64% of site visitors completed the evaluation). Cost per completed evaluation was US $25.48; cost per low-income completer was US $39.92. Results were similar for the FA evaluation; 795 Facebook users clicked on the ad with 110 unique site visitors, and 73 completing the evaluation (ie, 73/795, 9.2% of ad clickers and 73/110, 66% of site visitors completed the evaluation). Cost per valid completed survey with program evaluation was US $18.88; cost per low-income completer was US $27.53. Conclusions With Facebook we successfully recruited low-income Pennsylvanians to online nutrition program evaluations. Benefits using Facebook as a recruitment strategy included real-time recruitment management with lower costs and more efficiency compared to previous data from traditional research recruitment strategies reported in the literature. Limitations prompted by repeated survey attempts need to be addressed to optimize this recruitment strategy. PMID:23948573

Purposive facebook recruitment endows cost-effective nutrition education program evaluation.

PubMed

Lohse, Barbara; Wamboldt, Patricia

2013-08-15

Recent legislation established a requirement for nutrition education in federal assistance programs to be evidence-based. Recruitment of low-income persons to participate and evaluate nutrition education activities can be challenging and costly. Facebook has been shown to be a cost-effective strategy to recruit this target audience to a nutrition program. The purpose of our study was to examine Facebook as a strategy to recruit participants, especially Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed) eligible persons, to view and evaluate an online nutrition education program intended to be offered as having some evidence base for SNAP-Ed programming. English-speaking, low-income Pennsylvania residents, 18-55 years with key profile words (eg, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Food bank), responded to a Facebook ad inviting participation in either Eating Together as a Family is Worth It (WI) or Everyone Needs Folic Acid (FA). Participants completed an online survey on food-related behaviors, viewed a nutrition education program, and completed a program evaluation. Facebook set-up functions considered were costing action, daily spending cap, and population reach. Respondents for both WI and FA evaluations were similar; the majority were white, <40 years, overweight or obese body mass index, and not eating competent. A total of 807 Facebook users clicked on the WI ad with 73 unique site visitors and 47 of them completing the program evaluation (ie, 47/807, 5.8% of clickers and 47/73, 64% of site visitors completed the evaluation). Cost per completed evaluation was US $25.48; cost per low-income completer was US $39.92. Results were similar for the FA evaluation; 795 Facebook users clicked on the ad with 110 unique site visitors, and 73 completing the evaluation (ie, 73/795, 9.2% of ad clickers and 73/110, 66% of site visitors completed the evaluation). Cost per valid completed survey with program evaluation was US $18.88; cost per low-income completer was US $27.53. With Facebook we successfully recruited low-income Pennsylvanians to online nutrition program evaluations. Benefits using Facebook as a recruitment strategy included real-time recruitment management with lower costs and more efficiency compared to previous data from traditional research recruitment strategies reported in the literature. Limitations prompted by repeated survey attempts need to be addressed to optimize this recruitment strategy.

F Reactor Inspection

ScienceCinema

Grindstaff, Keith; Hathaway, Boyd; Wilson, Mike

2018-01-16

Workers from Mission Support Alliance, LLC., removed the welds around the steel door of the F Reactor before stepping inside the reactor to complete its periodic inspection. This is the first time the Department of Energy (DOE) has had the reactor open since 2008. The F Reactor is one of nine reactors along the Columbia River at the Department's Hanford Site in southeastern Washington State, where environmental cleanup has been ongoing since 1989. As part of the Tri-Party Agreement, the Department completes surveillance and maintenance activities of cocooned reactors periodically to evaluate the structural integrity of the safe storage enclosure and to ensure confinement of any remaining hazardous materials. "This entry marks a transition of sorts because the Hanford Long-Term Stewardship Program, for the first time, was responsible for conducting the entry and surveillance and maintenance activities," said Keith Grindstaff, Energy Department Long-Term Stewardship Program Manager. "As the River Corridor cleanup work is completed and transitioned to long-term stewardship, our program will manage any on-going requirements."

F Reactor Inspection

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

Grindstaff, Keith; Hathaway, Boyd; Wilson, Mike

2014-10-29

Workers from Mission Support Alliance, LLC., removed the welds around the steel door of the F Reactor before stepping inside the reactor to complete its periodic inspection. This is the first time the Department of Energy (DOE) has had the reactor open since 2008. The F Reactor is one of nine reactors along the Columbia River at the Department's Hanford Site in southeastern Washington State, where environmental cleanup has been ongoing since 1989. As part of the Tri-Party Agreement, the Department completes surveillance and maintenance activities of cocooned reactors periodically to evaluate the structural integrity of the safe storage enclosuremore » and to ensure confinement of any remaining hazardous materials. "This entry marks a transition of sorts because the Hanford Long-Term Stewardship Program, for the first time, was responsible for conducting the entry and surveillance and maintenance activities," said Keith Grindstaff, Energy Department Long-Term Stewardship Program Manager. "As the River Corridor cleanup work is completed and transitioned to long-term stewardship, our program will manage any on-going requirements."« less

Exploration of Factors Predictive of At-risk Fathers' Participation in a Pilot Study of an Augmented Evidence-Based Parent Training Program: A Mixed Methods Approach.

PubMed

Rostad, Whitney L; Self-Brown, Shannon; Boyd, Clinton; Osborne, Melissa; Patterson, Alexandria

2017-08-01

There has been burgeoning parenting intervention research specifically addressing fathers in recent decades. Corresponding research examining their participation and engagement in evidence-based parent training programs, which have almost exclusively targeted mothers, is just emerging. The current study used mixed methods to examine factors that influenced completion of an augmented version of an evidence-based child maltreatment prevention program developed for male caregivers called SafeCare Dad to Kids (Dad2K) in a pilot study. The current sample comprised 50 male caregivers ( M age = 29.42 years, SD = 8.18) of a child between the ages of 2 and 5 years. Fathers participated in a baseline assessment and were considered program completers (n = 27) if they participated in the program's six home visiting sessions. A subsample of completers (n = 11) was recruited to participate in qualitative interviews that provided in-depth information about fathers' experiences in Dad2K. Logistic regression indicated that, in the context of other demographic predictors, fathers with an education beyond high school were over 5 times more likely to complete Dad2K program compared to fathers with a high school education or less. Qualitative analyses revealed that interviewed father completers were motivated to enroll and participate in a fathering program because of an interest to learn and obtain skills to make them a better parent. Fathers with a high school education or less may require additional engagement strategies to help proactively encourage their enrollment and completion of parent training programs.

Effects of a nurse-managed program on hepatitis A and B vaccine completion among homeless adults.

PubMed

Nyamathi, Adeline; Liu, Yihang; Marfisee, Mary; Shoptaw, Steven; Gregerson, Paul; Saab, Sammy; Leake, Barbara; Tyler, Darlene; Gelberg, Lillian

2009-01-01

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection constitutes a major health problem for homeless persons. Ability to complete an HBV vaccination series is complicated by the need to prioritize competing needs, such as addiction issues, safe places to sleep, and food, over health concerns. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effectiveness of a nurse-case-managed intervention compared with that of two standard programs on completion of the combined hepatitis A virus (HAV) and HBV vaccine series among homeless adults and to assess sociodemographic factors and risk behaviors related to the vaccine completion. A randomized, three-group, prospective, quasi-experimental design was conducted with 865 homeless adults residing in homeless shelters, drug rehabilitation sites, and outdoor areas in the Skid Row area of Los Angeles. The programs included (a) nurse-case-managed sessions plus targeted hepatitis education, incentives, and tracking (NCMIT); (b) standard targeted hepatitis education plus incentives and tracking (SIT); and (c) standard targeted hepatitis education and incentives only (SI). Sixty-eight percent of the NCMIT participants completed the three-series vaccine at 6 months, compared with 61% of SIT participants and 54% of SI participants. NCMIT participants had almost 2 times greater odds of completing vaccination than those of participants in the SI program. Completers were more likely to be older, to be female, to report fair or poor health, and not to have participated in a self-help drug treatment program. Newly homeless White adults were significantly less likely than were African Americans to complete the vaccine series. The use of vaccination programs incorporating nurse case management and tracking is critical in supporting adherence to completion of a 6-month HAV/HBV vaccine. The finding that White homeless persons were the least likely to complete the vaccine series suggests that programs tailored to address their unique cultural issues are needed.

Development of a preprototype times wastewater recovery subsystem: Appendices

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roebelen, G. J., Jr.; Dehner, G. F.

1984-01-01

This Master Test Plan outlines the test program to be performed by Hamilton Standard during the Urine Water Recovery Subsystem Program. Testing is divided into three phases: (1) design support testing; development component testing; and acceptance testing. The completion of this test program verifies the subsystem operation.

U.S. Department of Energy Zero Energy Ready Home Implementation

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

Rothgeb, Stacey K; Schirber, T.; Mosiman, G.

The intention of this project is to assist home builders in the upper Midwest in achieving DOE Zero Energy Ready Home program certification, and to document the process and outcomes involved in meeting this rigorous standard. NorthernSTAR, in conjunction with our program partner Building Knowledge, Inc., provided technical support to the builders during the design and construction process. At the time of this publication, four qualifying homes have been completed and an additional three are currently under construction to be completed later this year. Three additional homes were excluded from certification due to the HVAC contractor not completing their requiredmore » credentialing until after completion of the homes, though the energy performance would have otherwise qualified the homes for program certification. Both Amaris Homes and Cobblestone Homes note that participation in the ZERH program provides them with competitive advantage in the market place at reasonable construction costs that also result in extremely satisfied clients who are willing to recommend the builders to friends and family.« less

Assessing program efficiency: a time and motion study of the Mental Health Emergency Care - Rural Access Program in NSW Australia.

PubMed

Saurman, Emily; Lyle, David; Kirby, Sue; Roberts, Russell

2014-07-31

The Mental Health Emergency Care-Rural Access Program (MHEC-RAP) is a telehealth solution providing specialist emergency mental health care to rural and remote communities across western NSW, Australia. This is the first time and motion (T&M) study to examine program efficiency and capacity for a telepsychiatry program. Clinical services are an integral aspect of the program accounting for 6% of all activities and 50% of the time spent conducting program activities, but half of this time is spent completing clinical paperwork. This finding emphasizes the importance of these services to program efficiency and the need to address variability of service provision to impact capacity. Currently, there is no efficiency benchmark for emergency telepsychiatry programs. Findings suggest that MHEC-RAP could increase its activity without affecting program responsiveness. T&M studies not only determine activity and time expenditure, but have a wider application assessing program efficiency by understanding, defining, and calculating capacity. T&M studies can inform future program development of MHEC-RAP and similar telehealth programs, both in Australia and overseas.

A Scenario-Based Virtual Patient Program to Support Substance Misuse Education

PubMed Central

Power, Ailsa; Hill, Duncan; Chapman, Paul

2016-01-01

Objective. To evaluate virtual patient (VP) programs for injecting equipment provision (IEP) and opiate substitution therapy (OST) services with respect to confidence and knowledge among preregistration pharmacist trainees. Methods. Preregistration trainee pharmacists pilot-tested the VP programs and were invited to complete pre/post and 6-month assessments of knowledge and perceived confidence. Results. One hundred six trainees participated and completed the pre/postassessments. Forty-six (43.4%) participants repeated the assessments at six months. Scores in perceived confidence increased in all domains at both time points postprogram. Knowledge scores were greater posteducation than preeducation. Knowledge scores were also greater six months after education than preeducation. Knowledge scores at six months were lower than posteducation for both programs. Conclusion. Virtual patients programs increased preregistration pharmacists’ knowledge and confidence with regard to IEP and OST immediately after use and at six months postprogram. There was a loss of clinical knowledge over time but confidence change was sustained. PMID:27170819

Aerospace Ground Equipment for model 4080 sequence programmer. A standard computer terminal is adapted to provide convenient operator to device interface

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nissley, L. E.

1979-01-01

The Aerospace Ground Equipment (AGE) provides an interface between a human operator and a complete spaceborne sequence timing device with a memory storage program. The AGE provides a means for composing, editing, syntax checking, and storing timing device programs. The AGE is implemented with a standard Hewlett-Packard 2649A terminal system and a minimum of special hardware. The terminal's dual tape interface is used to store timing device programs and to read in special AGE operating system software. To compose a new program for the timing device the keyboard is used to fill in a form displayed on the screen.

Effect of a Mat Pilates Program with TheraBand on Dynamic Balance in Patients with Parkinson's Disease: Feasibility Study and Randomized Controlled Trial.

PubMed

Mollinedo-Cardalda, Irimia; Cancela-Carral, José María; Vila-Suárez, María Helena

2018-01-24

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of a physical exercise program based on Mat Pilates (MP) with TheraBand ® on the dynamic balance of a sample population diagnosed with Parkinson's disease (PD). After random selection, 26 participants were allocated to a MP group or a control group where they performed calisthenics exercises. Both interventions lasted 12 weeks and involved 2 weekly sessions of 60 minutes. Assessments took place at baseline, 12 weeks after the intervention started and 4 weeks after the intervention was completed using the body mass index (BMI), the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test with Wiva ® sensors, the 30 Second Chair Stand test, and the Five Times Sit to Stand test. The group that completed the MP program presented significant improvements in BMI (F 1,21  = 3.986; p = 0.038), the 30 Second Chair Stand test (F 1,21  = 6.716; p = 0.014), the Five Times Sit to Stand test (F 1,21  = 5.213; p = 0.032), and the time required to complete the TUG dynamic balance test (F 1,21  = 5.035; p = 0.035). The MP program performed by a sample population with PD led to improvements in dynamic balance, and participants in the MP group showed increased strength in the lower limbs, but such improvements were not permanent after the activity ceased.

Prevention of Weight Gain Following a Worksite Nutrition and Exercise Program

PubMed Central

Thorndike, Anne N.; Sonnenberg, Lillian; Healey, Erica; Myint-U, Khinlei; Kvedar, Joseph C.; Regan, Susan

2012-01-01

Background Many employers are now providing wellness programs to help employees make changes in diet and exercise behaviors. Improving health outcomes and reducing costs will depend on whether employees sustain lifestyle changes and maintain a healthy weight over time. Purpose To determine if a 9-month maintenance intervention immediately following a 10-week worksite exercise and nutrition program would prevent regain of the weight lost during the program. Design RCT. Setting/participants In 2008, a total of 330 employees from 24 teams completed a 10-week exercise and nutrition program at a large hospital worksite and were randomized by team to maintenance or control (usual care) for 9 months. Intervention Internet support with a website for goal-setting and self-monitoring of weight and exercise plus minimal personal support. Main outcome measures Weight loss, percentage weight loss, time spent in physical activity, and frequency of consumption of fruits/vegetables, fatty foods, and sugary foods at 1 year compared to baseline. One-year follow-up was completed in 2010, and data were analyzed in 2011. Results At 1 year, 238 subjects (72%) completed follow-up assessments. Mean baseline BMI was 27.6 and did not differ between intervention and control. Compared to baseline, both groups lost weight during the 10-week program and maintained 65% of weight loss at 1 year (p<0.001). There was no difference in weight loss between groups at end of the 10-week program (4.8 lbs vs 4.3 lbs, p=0.53 for group×time interaction) or end of maintenance at 1 year (3.4 lbs vs 2.5 lbs, p=0.40 for group×time interaction). All subjects had improvements in physical activity and nutrition (increased fruits/vegetables and decreased fat and sugar intake) at 1 year but did not differ by group. Conclusions An intensive 10-week team-based worksite exercise and nutrition program resulted in moderate weight loss and improvements in diet and exercise behaviors at 1 year, but an Internet-based maintenance program immediately following the 10-week program did not improve these outcomes. PMID:22704742

School Consolidation: Is Bigger Better? Part I. Options in Education, Program #89.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

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

This publication is the complete transcript of a weekly radio program devoted to contemporary issues in American education. This particular program is the first of two that focus on the topic of school consolidation. In separate segments of the program, a teacher and students drill in a one-room school in Indiana; a long-time rural school teacher…

Implementation and evaluation of a simulation curriculum for paediatric residency programs including just-in-time in situ mock codes.

PubMed

Sam, Jonathan; Pierse, Michael; Al-Qahtani, Abdullah; Cheng, Adam

2012-02-01

To develop, implement and evaluate a simulation-based acute care curriculum in a paediatric residency program using an integrated and longitudinal approach. Curriculum framework consisting of three modular, year-specific courses and longitudinal just-in-time, in situ mock codes. Paediatric residency program at BC Children's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia. The three year-specific courses focused on the critical first 5 min, complex medical management and crisis resource management, respectively. The just-in-time in situ mock codes simulated the acute deterioration of an existing ward patient, prepared the actual multidisciplinary code team, and primed the surrounding crisis support systems. Each curriculum component was evaluated with surveys using a five-point Likert scale. A total of 40 resident surveys were completed after each of the modular courses, and an additional 28 surveys were completed for the overall simulation curriculum. The highest Likert scores were for hands-on skill stations, immersive simulation environment and crisis resource management teaching. Survey results also suggested that just-in-time mock codes were realistic, reinforced learning, and prepared ward teams for patient deterioration. A simulation-based acute care curriculum was successfully integrated into a paediatric residency program. It provides a model for integrating simulation-based learning into other training programs, as well as a model for any hospital that wishes to improve paediatric resuscitation outcomes using just-in-time in situ mock codes.

Accelerated second-degree nursing students: predictors of graduation and NCLEX-RN first-time pass rates.

PubMed

Penprase, Barbara B; Harris, Margaret A

2013-01-01

It is important to understand and identify factors that affect students' academic performance before entry into a nursing program and as they progress through the program. The authors discuss a study, and its outcomes, that assessed accelerated second-degree nursing students' prenursing and core nursing grades that served to predict their success at completing the nursing program and passing NCLEX-RN on first attempt. Strategies were identified to help at-risk students to be successful in the program and with first-time passage of NCLEX-RN.

PRDA-2 and 3 Brush Seal Development Programs at EG and G

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Loewenthal, Robert G.

1996-01-01

EG&G Mechanical Components Technology Group R&D completed a Brush Seal Development Program under PRDA-2 in late 1992. We started the Advanced Brush Seal Development program, under PRDA-3, in 1993 and will complete it in 1996. Both programs have been funded by the United States Air Force. In the first program, we made significant gains in the area of tribopairs (bristle materials vs. shaft coatings) and the 'Low Hysteresis' design for brush seals. These were reported in two AIAA Propulsion Conference papers, and the 'Low Hysteresis' design has been patented. Seals were delivered for test in an Air Force demonstrator at Allison. In PRDA-3, goals are to increase the pressure sealing capability, and the surface speeds and temperatures at which brush seals can be used. We have conducted part of the design and testing and have tested brush seals successfully at more severe conditions than in the previous program. We are continuing with the program, and will complete it in time to furnish brush seals for an Air Force Demonstrator test in 1997.

NASA's X2000 Program: An Institutional Approach to Enabling Smaller Spacecraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Deutsch, Leslie J.; Salvo, Chris; Woerner, David

2000-01-01

The number of NASA science missions per year is increasing from less than one to more than six. At the same time, individual mission budgets are smaller and cannot afford their own dedicated technology developments. In response to this, NASA has formed the X2000 Program. This program, which is divided into a set of subsequent "deliveries" will provide the basic avionics, power, communications, and software capability for future science missions. X2000 First Delivery, which will be completed in early 2001, will provide a full-functioned one MRAD tolerant flight computer, power switching electronics, a highly efficient radioisotope power source, and a transponder that provides high-level services at both 8.4 GHz and 32 GHz bands. The X2000 Second Delivery, which will be completed in the 2003 time frame, will enable complete spacecraft in the 10-50 kg class. All capabilities delivered by the X2000 program will be commercialized within the US and therefore will be available for others to use. Although the immediate customers for these technologies are deep space missions, most of the capabilities being delivered are generic in nature and will be equally applicable to Earth Observation missions.

An Intervention Program Focused on Self-Understanding and Interpersonal Interactions to Prevent Psychosocial Distress among Japanese University Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ando, Mikayo

2011-01-01

This study evaluated the impact of a preventive intervention program focused on self-understanding and interpersonal interactions to prevent psychosocial distress among Japanese university students. Two hundred and twenty-two undergraduate students were divided into a treatment group and a control group to complete Time 1 and Time 2 surveys. The…

The Effect of Therapeutic Community on Time to First Re-Arrest: A Survival Analysis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jensen, Eric L.; Kane, Stephanie L.

2010-01-01

This research examines the effect of therapeutic community (TC) on time to first re-arrest after release from prison. The comparison groups of primary interest in this research are male inmates assessed by corrections personnel as needing TC and who successfully completed the program, and inmates assessed as needing the program but who did not…

Efficacy and Maintenance of an Education Program for a Consumer Cooperative.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Altus, Deborah E.; And Others

1993-01-01

This study examined the effects of contingency management on participation in an education program by new members of a student housing cooperative. With credit and fine contingencies in place, the percentage of participants completing study guides was five times higher than without the contingencies. Members continued to implement the program for…

Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) Reference Guide

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Minnesota Department of Education, 2017

2017-01-01

The PSEO program is a dual credit program that allows high school students to simultaneously earn high school and college credit through enrollment in and successful completion of college-level courses on a college campus or online. Students may take PSEO courses on a full- or part-time basis. The PSEO program provides students with a greater…

Adult Learners as Graduate Students: Underlying Motivation in Completing Graduate Programs

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hegarty, Niall

2011-01-01

The majority of graduate part-time programs are fueled by adult learners seeking to enhance their human capital and advance professional careers. In contrast, degree-granting programs seek to impart knowledge and advance learning in a particular discipline. At this intersection lies the individual student's motivation to satisfy their personal…

Computer program user's manual for advanced general aviation propeller study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Worobel, R.

1972-01-01

A user's manual is presented for a computer program for predicting the performance (static, flight, and reverse), noise, weight and cost of propellers for advanced general aviation aircraft of the 1980 time period. Complete listings of this computer program with detailed instructions and samples of input and output are included.

Full Time Gifted Child Education in a Boys Only Elementary School.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Alston, Ken

1988-01-01

Described is a South African program in which gifted boys, aged 12-14, were combined into a single class. The program included accelerated learning; formal examinations only in English, Afrikaans, and mathematics; and development of social relationships. Questionnaires completed by 30 students, parents, and siblings identified the program's…

A community-based aquatic exercise program to improve endurance and mobility in adults with mild to moderate intellectual disability.

PubMed

Hakim, Renée M; Ross, Michael D; Runco, Wendy; Kane, Michael T

2017-02-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of a community-based aquatic exercise program on physical performance among adults with mild to moderate intellectual disability (ID). Twenty-two community-dwelling adults with mild to moderate ID volunteered to participate in this study. Participants completed an 8-week aquatic exercise program (2 days/wk, 1 hr/session). Measures of physical performance, which were assessed prior to and following the completion of the aquatic exercise program, included the timed-up-and-go test, 6-min walk test, 30-sec chair stand test, 10-m timed walk test, hand grip strength, and the static plank test. When comparing participants' measures of physical performance prior to and following the 8-week aquatic exercise program, improvements were seen in all measures, but the change in scores for the 6-min walk test, 30-sec chair stand test, and the static plank test achieved statistical significance ( P <0.05). An 8-week group aquatic exercise program for adults with ID may promote improvements in endurance and balance/mobility.

32 CFR 644.547 - Extensions of time.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

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

32 CFR 644.547 - Extensions of time.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

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

Implementation of a fall screening program in a high risk of fracture population.

PubMed

Ritchey, Katherine; Olney, Amanda; Shofer, Jane; Phelan, Elizabeth A; Matsumoto, Alvin M

2017-10-31

Fall prevention is an important way to prevent fractures in person with osteoporosis. We developed and implemented a fall screening program in the context of routine osteoporosis care. This program was found to be feasible and showed that a significant proportion of persons with osteoporosis are at risk of falling. Falls are the most common cause of fracture in persons with osteoporosis. However, osteoporosis care rarely includes assessment and prevention of falling. We thus sought to assess the feasibility of a fall screening and management program integrated into routine osteoporosis care. The program was developed and offered to patients with osteoporosis or osteopenia seen at an outpatient clinic between May 2015 and May 2016. Feasibility was measured by physical therapist time required to conduct screening and ease of integrating the screening program into the usual clinic workflow. Self-report responses and mobility testing were conducted to describe the fall and fracture risk profile of osteoporosis patients screened. Effects on fall-related care processes were assessed via chart abstraction of patient participation in fall prevention exercise. Of the 154 clinic patients who presented for a clinic visit, 68% met screening criteria and completed in two thirds of persons. Screening was completed in a third of the time typically allotted for traditional PT evaluations and did not interfere with clinic workflow. Forty percent of those screened reported falling in the last year, and over half had two or more falls in the past year. Over half reported a balance or lower extremity impairment, and over 40% were below norms on one or more performance tests. Most patients who selected a group exercise fall prevention program completed all sessions while only a quarter completed either supervised or independent home-based programs. Implementation of a fall risk screening program in an outpatient osteoporosis clinic appears feasible. A substantial proportion of people with osteoporosis screened positive for being at risk of falling, justifying integration of fall prevention into routine osteoporosis care.

Development and implementation of a pharmacist-run comprehensive medication review program in Wisconsin.

PubMed

Schoenrock, Danielle L; Hartkopf, Katherine; Boeckelman, Carrie

2016-12-01

The development and implementation of a centralized, pharmacist-run population health program were pursued within a health system to increase patient exposure to comprehensive medication reviews (CMRs) and improve visit processes. Program implementation included choosing appropriate pilot pharmacy locations, developing a feasible staffing model, standardizing the workflow, and creating a patient referral process. The impact on patient exposure, specific interventions, and the sustainability of the program were evaluated over a seven-month period. A total of 96 CMRs were scheduled during the data collection period. Attendance at scheduled CMRs was 54% (52 visits); there were 25 cancellations (26%) and 19 no-shows (20%). Since program implementation, there has been more than a twofold increase (2.08) in the number of CMRs completed within the health system. On average, all aspects of each patient visit took 1.78 hours to complete. Pharmacists spent 28% of scheduled time on CMR tasks and 72% of time on telephone calls and technical tasks to maintain appointments. A pharmacist-run CMR program helped to elevate the role of the community pharmacist in a health system and to improve patient exposure to CMRs. Sustaining a centralized CMR program requires support from other members of the health-system team so that pharmacists can spend more time providing patient care and less time on the technical tasks involved. Copyright © 2016 by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. All rights reserved.

Facilitating Scholarly Writing in Academic Medicine

PubMed Central

Pololi, Linda; Knight, Sharon; Dunn, Kathleen

2004-01-01

Scholarly writing is a critical skill for faculty in academic medicine; however, few faculty receive instruction in the process. We describe the experience of 18 assistant professors who participated in a writing and faculty development program which consisted of 7 monthly 75-minute sessions embedded in a Collaborative Mentoring Program (CMP). Participants identified barriers to writing, developed personal writing strategies, had time to write, and completed monthly writing contracts. Participants provided written responses to open-ended questions about the learning experience, and at the end of the program, participants identified manuscripts submitted for publication, and completed an audiotaped interview. Analysis of qualitative data using data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing/verification showed that this writing program facilitated the knowledge, skills, and support needed to foster writing productivity. All participants completed at least 1 scholarly manuscript by the end of the CMP. The impact on participants’ future academic productivity requires long-term follow-up. PMID:14748862

Maple

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nicolaides, Roy A.; Walkington, Noel J.

1996-06-01

A knowledge of one or more high level symbolic mathematics programs is rapidly becoming a necessity for mathematics users from all fields of science. The aim of this book is to provide a solid grounding in Maple, one of the best known of these programs. The authors combine efficiency and economy of exposition with a complete coverage of Maple. The book has twelve chapters, of which eight are completely accessible to anyone who has completed calculus and linear sequences as taught in American universities. These chapters cover the great majority of Maple's capabilities. There are also three chapters on Maple programming that can be read without prior programming experience, although knowledge of a high level programming language (Basic, Fortran, C etc.) will help. There is also a chapter on some relevant aspects of algebra. Above all, the book allows the reader to extract value from Maple without wasting time and effort in the learning process. It is the fastest track to expertise for Maple users in mathematics and computer science.

Focused Board Intervention (FBI): A Remediation Program for Written Board Preparation and the Medical Knowledge Core Competency.

PubMed

Visconti, Annette; Gaeta, Theodore; Cabezon, Michael; Briggs, William; Pyle, Matthew

2013-09-01

Residents deemed at risk for low performance on standardized examinations require focused attention and remediation. To determine whether a remediation program for residents identified as at risk for failure on the Emergency Medicine (EM) Written Board Examination is associated with improved outcomes. All residents in 8 classes of an EM 1-3 program were assessed using the In-Training Examination. Residents enrolled in the Focused Board Intervention (FBI) remediation program based on an absolute score on the EM 3 examination of <70% or a score more than 1 SD below the national mean on the EM 1 or 2 examination. Individualized education plans (IEPs) were created for residents in the FBI program, combining self-study audio review lectures with short-answer examinations. The association between first-time pass rate for the American Board of Emergency Medicine (ABEM) Written Qualifying Examination (WQE) and completion of all IEPs was examined using the χ(2) test. Of the 64 residents graduating and sitting for the ABEM examination between 2000 and 2008, 26 (41%) were eligible for the program. Of these, 10 (38%) residents were compliant and had a first-time pass rate of 100%. The control group (12 residents who matched criteria but graduated before the FBI program was in place and 4 who were enrolled but failed to complete the program) had a 44% pass rate (7 of 16), which was significantly lower (χ(2)  =  8.6, P  =  .003). The probability of passing the ABEM WQE on the first attempt was improved through the completion of a structured IEP.

The Teaching Decisions Simulation: An Interactive Vehicle for Mapping Teaching Decisions.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Strang, Harold R.

1996-01-01

Describes the Teaching Decisions Simulation, a program that allows participants to make decisions regarding lesson plan activities and student and teacher spatial arrangement or interactions. Postlesson feedback includes variables such as completion time and performance measures. Experienced teachers exhibited more deliberation in completing the…

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

PubMed

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

2016-10-01

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

Active Families in the Great Outdoors: A Program to Promote Family Outdoor Physical Activity

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Flynn, Jennifer I.; Bassett, David R.; Fouts, Hillary N.; Thompson, Dixie L.; Coe, Dawn P.

2017-01-01

This study evaluated a 4-week program to increase the time families spent engaging in outdoor activity. Parents were provided strategies to increase family outdoor activity and locations to be active. Sixteen families completed the program. Duration and number of family outdoor activity bouts per week, type of activities, locations, and family…

Making the Peace. A 15-Session Violence Prevention Curriculum for Young People. First Edition.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kivel, Paul; Creighton, Allan

The "Making the Peace" curriculum is a complete program offering everything needed to address violence prevention in the classroom, after-school program, residential program for youth, or juvenile justice setting. The curriculum can be adapted to various time frames and parts may be incorporated into social studies, health, or other…

An online survey of chiropractors' opinions of continuing education

PubMed Central

Stuber, Kent J; Grod, Jaroslaw P; Smith, Dean L; Powers, Paul

2005-01-01

Background Continuing Education (CE) for chiropractors is mandatory for licensure in most North American jurisdictions. Numerous chiropractic colleges have begun collaborating with universities to offer master's degree programs. Distance education master's degree programs may be desirable to allow full-time practicing doctors to further their post-graduate education. The present survey sought to answer three questions. First, what is the level of satisfaction of chiropractors with their continuing education? Second, what is the level of interest of chiropractors in online master's degree programs? Lastly, what is the response rate of chiropractors to an online survey? Methods An online survey consisting of 22 multiple choice questions was e-mailed to 1000 chiropractors randomly selected from the mailing list of an online chiropractic newsletter. Upon completion of the questionnaire, participants' answers were saved on a secure site. Data analysis included evaluation of the demographic characteristics of the respondents, their opinions of and patterns of taking CE including online education, preferred learning formats, and their interest in proposed online master's degree programs. A survey response rate was determined. Results Nearly 86% of respondents felt their previously completed CE courses were either somewhat or extremely satisfactory. Over ninety percent of respondents who had completed online or distance CE coursesfound them to be somewhat or extremelysatisfactory. Almost half the respondents indicated that they most preferred online distance learning, while 34.08% most preferred face-to-face interaction. Fifty-three percent of respondents indicated an interest in starting a master's degree program; however 70.46% of respondents were interested in an online master's degree program that would offer CE credit. A response rate of 35.8% was obtained. Conclusion Satisfaction among chiropractors with CE programs is high. The notion of completing a part-time online master's degree (or online combined with face-to-face interaction) appears to be popular among respondents, with a M.Sc. in Chiropractic Sciences being the most popular of those mentioned. Online surveys are a viable method of obtaining opinion in a cost and time efficient manner; there are some sources of bias involved in this type of research, and numerous steps need to be taken to obtain a suitable response rate. PMID:16242035

Exploring the utility of measures of critical thinking dispositions and professional behavior development in an audiology education program.

PubMed

Ng, Stella L; Bartlett, Doreen J; Lucy, S Deborah

2013-05-01

Discussions about professional behaviors are growing increasingly prevalent across health professions, especially as a central component to education programs. A strong critical thinking disposition, paired with critical consciousness, may provide future health professionals with a foundation for solving challenging practice problems through the application of sound technical skill and scientific knowledge without sacrificing sensitive, empathic, client-centered practice. In this article, we describe an approach to monitoring student development of critical thinking dispositions and key professional behaviors as a way to inform faculty members' and clinical supervisors' support of students and ongoing curriculum development. We designed this exploratory study to describe the trajectory of change for a cohort of audiology students' critical thinking dispositions (measured by the California Critical Thinking Disposition Inventory: [CCTDI]) and professional behaviors (using the Comprehensive Professional Behaviors Development Log-Audiology [CPBDL-A]) in an audiology program. Implications for the CCTDI and CPBDL-A in audiology entry-to-practice curricula and professional development will be discussed. This exploratory study involved a cohort of audiology students, studied over a two-year period, using a one-group repeated measures design. Eighteen audiology students (two male and 16 female), began the study. At the third and final data collection point, 15 students completed the CCTDI, and nine students completed the CPBDL-A. The CCTDI and CPBDL-A were each completed at three time points: at the beginning, at the middle, and near the end of the audiology education program. Data are presented descriptively in box plots to examine the trends of development for each critical thinking disposition dimension and each key professional behavior as well as for an overall critical thinking disposition score. For the CCTDI, there was a general downward trend from time point 1 to time point 2 and a general upward trend from time point 2 to time point 3. Students demonstrated upward trends from the initial to final time point for their self-assessed development of professional behaviors as indicated on the CPBDL-A. The CCTDI and CPBDL-A can be used by audiology education programs as mechanisms for inspiring, fostering, and monitoring the development of critical thinking dispositions and key professional behaviors in students. Feedback and mentoring about dispositions and behaviors in conjunction with completion of these measures is recommended for inspiring and fostering these key professional attributes. American Academy of Audiology.

Data-driven management using quantitative metric and automatic auditing program (QMAP) improves consistency of radiation oncology processes.

PubMed

Yu, Naichang; Xia, Ping; Mastroianni, Anthony; Kolar, Matthew D; Chao, Samuel T; Greskovich, John F; Suh, John H

Process consistency in planning and delivery of radiation therapy is essential to maintain patient safety and treatment quality and efficiency. Ensuring the timely completion of each critical clinical task is one aspect of process consistency. The purpose of this work is to report our experience in implementing a quantitative metric and automatic auditing program (QMAP) with a goal of improving the timely completion of critical clinical tasks. Based on our clinical electronic medical records system, we developed a software program to automatically capture the completion timestamp of each critical clinical task while providing frequent alerts of potential delinquency. These alerts were directed to designated triage teams within a time window that would offer an opportunity to mitigate the potential for late completion. Since July 2011, 18 metrics were introduced in our clinical workflow. We compared the delinquency rates for 4 selected metrics before the implementation of the metric with the delinquency rate of 2016. One-tailed Student t test was used for statistical analysis RESULTS: With an average of 150 daily patients on treatment at our main campus, the late treatment plan completion rate and late weekly physics check were reduced from 18.2% and 8.9% in 2011 to 4.2% and 0.1% in 2016, respectively (P < .01). The late weekly on-treatment physician visit rate was reduced from 7.2% in 2012 to <1.6% in 2016. The yearly late cone beam computed tomography review rate was reduced from 1.6% in 2011 to <0.1% in 2016. QMAP is effective in reducing late completions of critical tasks, which can positively impact treatment quality and patient safety by reducing the potential for errors resulting from distractions, interruptions, and rush in completion of critical tasks. Copyright © 2016 American Society for Radiation Oncology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Idea Project Final Report, A Prototype System For Real-Time Incident Likelihood Prediction

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1995-02-28

THIS INVESTIGATION WAS COMPLETED AS PART OF THE ITS-IDEA PROGRAM WHICH IS ONE OF THREE IDEA PROGRAMS MANAGED BY THE TRANSPORTATION RESEARCH BOARD (TRB) TO FOSTER INNOVATIONS IN SURFACE TRANSPORTATION. IT FOCUSES ON PRODUCTS AND RESULT FOR THE DEVELOP...

Complete ISOPHOT (C200) Maps of a Nearby Prototypical GMC: W3 (Spring) or NGC7538 (Fall)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sanders, David B.

2001-01-01

We were originally awarded Priority 3 time (approximately 60,000 sec) with Infrared Space Observatory (ISO) to obtain a complete ISOPHOT (PHT32-C200) map of a nearby prototypical giant molecular cloud (GMC). Following the FALL launch and revised estimates for the sensitivity of the ISOPHOT detectors, our program was modified to fit within the time constraints while still carrying out the main science requirements. The revised program requested long strip maps of our FALL target (NGC7538) using sequences of PHT37/38/39 observations with LWS observations of the brightest regions. The large number of AOTs required to cover each GMC required that our observations be spread over four separate proposals (PROP-01, PROP-02, PROP-03, PROP-04) which together comprise a single observing program. Our program was executed in early 1997; nearly 50,000 sec of data were obtained, including all of our requested ISOPHOT C200 observations. None of the LWS data were taken.

How to Increase PhD Completion Rates? An Impact Evaluation of Two Reforms in a Selective Graduate School, 1976-2012

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Geven, Koen; Skopek, Jan; Triventi, Moris

2018-01-01

Graduate and doctoral schools around the world struggle to shorten the long time to degree and to prevent high dropout rates. While most of previous research studied individual determinants of PhD completion, we analyze the impact of two structural reforms of the doctoral program on thesis completion at a selective European graduate school.…

A Design Architecture for an Integrated Training System Decision Support System

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-07-01

Sensory modes include visual, auditory, tactile, or kinesthetic; performance categories include time to complete , speed of response, or correct action ...procedures, and finally application and examples from the aviation proponency with emphasis on the LHX program. Appendix B is a complete bibliography...integrated analysis of ITS development. The approach was designed to provide an accurate and complete representation of the ITS development process and

34 CFR 682.216 - Teacher loan forgiveness program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... serves low-income families as a full-time teacher for five consecutive complete academic years. The... elementary or secondary school may be counted toward the required five consecutive complete academic years only if at least one year of teaching was after the 1997-1998 academic year. (iii) Teaching at an...

34 CFR 685.217 - Teacher loan forgiveness program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... serves low-income families as a full-time teacher for five consecutive complete academic years. The... elementary or secondary school may be counted toward the required five consecutive complete academic years only if at least one year of teaching was after the 1997-1998 academic year. (iii) Teaching at an...

Flexibility in Postgraduate Medical Training in the Netherlands.

PubMed

Hoff, Reinier G; Frenkel, Joost; Imhof, Saskia M; Ten Cate, Olle

2018-03-01

Postgraduate medical training in the Netherlands has become increasingly individualized. In this article, the authors describe current practices for three residency programs at the University Medical Center Utrecht: anesthesiology, pediatrics, and ophthalmology. These programs are diverse yet share characteristics allowing for individualized residency training. New residents enter each program throughout the year, avoiding a large simultaneous influx of inexperienced doctors. The usual duration of each is five years. However, the actual duration of rotations or of the program as a whole can be reduced because of residents' previous medical experience or demonstration of early mastery of relevant competencies. If necessary, the duration of training can also increase.Although working hours are already restricted by the European Working Time Directive, most residents choose to train on a part-time basis. The length of their program then is extended proportionally. The extension period added for those residents training part-time can be used to develop specific competencies, complete an elective rotation or research, or explore a focus area. If the resident meets all training objectives before the extension period is completed, the program director can choose to shorten the program length. Recently, entrustable professional activities have been introduced to strengthen workplace-based assessment. The effects on program duration have yet to be demonstrated.Flexible postgraduate training is feasible. Although improving work-life balance for residents is a necessity, attention must be paid to ensuring that they gain the necessary experience and competencies and maintain continuity of care to ensure that high-quality patient care is provided.

FitKids360: design, conduct, and outcomes of a stage 2 pediatric obesity program.

PubMed

Tucker, Jared M; Eisenmann, Joey C; Howard, Kathleen; Guseman, Emily H; Yee, Kimbo E; DeLaFuente, Kimberly; Graybill, Jill; Roberts, Meggie; Murphy, Megan; Saturley, Heather; Peterson, Tom

2014-01-01

This paper describes FitKids360, a stage 2 pediatric weight management program. FitKids360 is a physician-referred, multicomponent, low-cost healthy lifestyle program for overweight and obese youth 5-16 years of age and their families. FitKids360 provides an evidence-based approach to the treatment of pediatric overweight by targeting patients' physical activity, screen time, and dietary behaviors using a family-centered approach. The intervention begins with a two-hour orientation and assessment period followed by six weekly sessions. Assessments include lifestyle behaviors, anthropometry, and the Family Nutrition and Physical Activity (FNPA) survey, which screens for obesogenic risk factors in the home environment. Outcomes are presented from 258 patients who completed one of 33 FitKids360 classes. After completing FitKids360, patients increased moderate to vigorous physical activity by 14 minutes (P = 0.019), reduced screen time by 44 minutes (P < 0.001), and improved key dietary behaviors. Overall, FNPA scores increased by 9% (P < 0.001) and 69% of patients with "high risk" FNPA scores at baseline dropped below the "high risk" range by followup. Patients also lowered BMIs (P = 0.011) and age- and sex-adjusted BMI z-scores (P < 0.001) after completing the 7-week program. We hope this report will be useful to medical and public health professionals seeking to develop stage 2 pediatric obesity programs.

FitKids360: Design, Conduct, and Outcomes of a Stage 2 Pediatric Obesity Program

PubMed Central

Tucker, Jared M.; Eisenmann, Joey C.; Howard, Kathleen; Guseman, Emily H.; Yee, Kimbo E.; DeLaFuente, Kimberly; Graybill, Jill; Roberts, Meggie; Murphy, Megan; Saturley, Heather; Peterson, Tom

2014-01-01

This paper describes FitKids360, a stage 2 pediatric weight management program. FitKids360 is a physician-referred, multicomponent, low-cost healthy lifestyle program for overweight and obese youth 5–16 years of age and their families. FitKids360 provides an evidence-based approach to the treatment of pediatric overweight by targeting patients' physical activity, screen time, and dietary behaviors using a family-centered approach. The intervention begins with a two-hour orientation and assessment period followed by six weekly sessions. Assessments include lifestyle behaviors, anthropometry, and the Family Nutrition and Physical Activity (FNPA) survey, which screens for obesogenic risk factors in the home environment. Outcomes are presented from 258 patients who completed one of 33 FitKids360 classes. After completing FitKids360, patients increased moderate to vigorous physical activity by 14 minutes (P = 0.019), reduced screen time by 44 minutes (P < 0.001), and improved key dietary behaviors. Overall, FNPA scores increased by 9% (P < 0.001) and 69% of patients with “high risk” FNPA scores at baseline dropped below the “high risk” range by followup. Patients also lowered BMIs (P = 0.011) and age- and sex-adjusted BMI z-scores (P < 0.001) after completing the 7-week program. We hope this report will be useful to medical and public health professionals seeking to develop stage 2 pediatric obesity programs. PMID:25215228

Outcomes and Processes in the Meyerhoff Scholars Program: STEM PhD Completion, Sense of Community, Perceived Program Benefit, Science Identity, and Research Self-Efficacy

PubMed Central

Maton, Kenneth I.; Beason, Tiffany S.; Godsay, Surbhi; Sto. Domingo, Mariano R.; Bailey, TaShara C.; Sun, Shuyan; Hrabowski, Freeman A.

2016-01-01

Previous research has shown that the Meyerhoff Scholars Program at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, is an effective intervention for high-achieving underrepresented minority (URM) students; African-American Meyerhoff students are significantly more likely to enter science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) PhD programs than comparison students. The first of two studies in this report extends the prior research by examining levels of PhD completion for Meyerhoff (N = 479) versus comparison sample (N = 249) students among the first 16 cohorts. Entering African-American Meyerhoff students were 4.8 times more likely to complete STEM PhDs than comparison sample students. To enhance understanding of potential mechanisms of influence, the second study used data from the 22nd (Fall 2010) to 25th (Fall 2013) cohorts (N = 109) to test the hypothesis that perceived program benefit at the end of freshman year would mediate the relationship between sense of community at the end of Summer Bridge and science identity and research self-efficacy at the end of sophomore year. Study 2 results indicated that perceived program benefit fully mediated the relationship between sense of community and both criterion measures. The findings underscore the potential of comprehensive STEM intervention programs to enhance PhD completion, and suggest mechanisms of influence. PMID:27587857

Implementation and evaluation of a simulation curriculum for paediatric residency programs including just-in-time in situ mock codes

PubMed Central

Sam, Jonathan; Pierse, Michael; Al-Qahtani, Abdullah; Cheng, Adam

2012-01-01

OBJECTIVE: To develop, implement and evaluate a simulation-based acute care curriculum in a paediatric residency program using an integrated and longitudinal approach. DESIGN: Curriculum framework consisting of three modular, year-specific courses and longitudinal just-in-time, in situ mock codes. SETTING: Paediatric residency program at BC Children’s Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia. INTERVENTIONS: The three year-specific courses focused on the critical first 5 min, complex medical management and crisis resource management, respectively. The just-in-time in situ mock codes simulated the acute deterioration of an existing ward patient, prepared the actual multidisciplinary code team, and primed the surrounding crisis support systems. Each curriculum component was evaluated with surveys using a five-point Likert scale. RESULTS: A total of 40 resident surveys were completed after each of the modular courses, and an additional 28 surveys were completed for the overall simulation curriculum. The highest Likert scores were for hands-on skill stations, immersive simulation environment and crisis resource management teaching. Survey results also suggested that just-in-time mock codes were realistic, reinforced learning, and prepared ward teams for patient deterioration. CONCLUSIONS: A simulation-based acute care curriculum was successfully integrated into a paediatric residency program. It provides a model for integrating simulation-based learning into other training programs, as well as a model for any hospital that wishes to improve paediatric resuscitation outcomes using just-in-time in situ mock codes. PMID:23372405

The Effect of Web-Based Education on Patient Satisfaction, Consultation Time and Conversion to Surgery.

PubMed

Boudreault, David J; Li, Chin-Shang; Wong, Michael S

2016-01-01

To evaluate the effect of web-based education on (1) patient satisfaction, (2) consultation times, and (3) conversion to surgery. A retrospective review of 767 new patient consultations seen by 4 university-based plastic surgeons was conducted between May 2012 and August 2013 to determine the effect a web-based education program has on patient satisfaction and consultation time. A standard 5-point Likert scale survey completed at the end of the consultation was used to assess satisfaction with their experience. Consult times were obtained from the electronic medical record. All analyses were done with Statistical Analysis Software version 9.2 (SAS Inc., Cary, NC). A P value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Those who viewed the program before their consultation were more satisfied with their consultation compared to those who did not (satisfaction scores, mean ± SD: 1.13 ± 0.44 vs 1.36 ± 0.74; P = 0.02) and more likely to rate their experience as excellent (92% vs 75%; P = 0.02). Contrary to the claims of Emmi Solutions, patients who viewed the educational program before consultation trended toward longer visits compared to those who did not (mean time ± SD: 54 ± 26 vs 50 ± 35 minutes; P = 0.10). More patients who completed the program went on to undergo a procedure (44% vs 37%; P = 0.16), but this difference was not statistically significant. Viewing web-based educational programs significantly improved plastic surgery patients' satisfaction with their consultation, but patients who viewed the program also trended toward longer consultation times. Although there was an increase in converting to surgical procedures, this did not reach statistical significance.

Feasibility and acceptability of a novel, computerized screening and brief intervention (SBI) for alcohol and sweetened beverage use in pregnancy.

PubMed

Nayak, Madhabika B; Korcha, Rachael A; Kaskutas, Lee A; Kaskustas, Lee A; Avalos, Lyndsay A

2014-11-25

Recommended screening and brief intervention (SBI) for alcohol use during pregnancy is impeded by high patient loads and limited resources in public health settings. We evaluated the feasibility, acceptability and validity of a new self-administered, single-session, bilingual, computerized Screening and Brief Intervention (SBI) program for alcohol and sugar sweetened beverage (SSB) use in pregnancy. We developed and tested the computerized SBI program at a public health clinic with 290 pregnant women. Feasibility, acceptability, and validity measures were included in the program which had several modules, including those on demographics, health and beverage use. Time to complete the program and user experience items were used to determine program feasibility and acceptability. Validity analyses compared proportions of prenatal alcohol use identified by the program versus in-person screening by clinic staff. Most program users (87%, n = 251) completed the entire program; 91% (n = 263) completed the key screening and brief intervention modules. Most users also completed the program in ten to fifteen minutes. Program users reported that the program was easy to use (97%), they learned something new (88%), and that they would share what they learned with others (83%) and with their doctors or clinic staff (76%). Program acceptability did not differ by age, education, or type of beverage intervention received. The program identified alcohol use in pregnancy among 21% of users, a higher rate than the 13% (p < .01) found via screening by clinic staff. Computerized Screening and Brief Intervention for alcohol and SSB use in public health clinics is feasible and acceptable to English and Spanish speaking pregnant women and can efficiently identify prenatal alcohol use.

Predictors of women's exercise maintenance after cardiac rehabilitation.

PubMed

Moore, Shirley M; Dolansky, Mary A; Ruland, Cornelia M; Pashkow, Fredric J; Blackburn, Gordon G

2003-01-01

Less than 50% of persons who participate in cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs maintain an exercise regimen for as long as 6 months after completion. This study was conducted to identify factors that predict women's exercise following completion of a CR program. In this prospective, descriptive study, a convenience sample of 60 women were recruited at completion of a phase II CR program. Exercise was measured using a heart rate wristwatch monitor over 3 months. Predictor variables collected at the time of the subjects' enrollment were age, body mass index, cardiac functional status, comorbidity, muscle or joint pain, motivation, mood state, social support, self-efficacy, perceived benefits or barriers, and prior exercise. Of women, 25% did not exercise at all following completion of a CR program and only 48% of the subjects were exercising at 3 months. Different predictors were found of the various dimensions of exercise maintenance. Predictors of exercise frequency were comorbidity and instrumental social support. Instrumental social support was the only predictor of exercise persistence. Comorbidity was the only predictor of exercise intensity. The only predictor of the total amount of exercise was benefits or barriers. Interventions aimed at increasing women's exercise should focus on increasing their problem-solving abilities to reduce barriers to exercise and increase social support by family and friends. Because comorbidity was a significant predictor of exercise, women should be encouraged to use exercise techniques that reduce impact on muscles and joints (eg, swimming) or exercising for short periods several times a day.

Improving Transfer of Learning: An Innovative Comentoring Program to Enhance Workplace Implementation After an Occupational Therapy Course on Autism Spectrum Disorders.

PubMed

Ashburner, Jill; Ziviani, Jenny; Rodger, Sylvia; Hinder, Elizabeth A; Cartmill, Linda; White, Jessica; Vickerstaff, Sandy

2015-01-01

Research suggests that learning gained through training is infrequently implemented in the workplace. A short-term postcourse comentoring program was developed with the aim of facilitating workplace implementation of learning after a 3-day course for occupational therapists. The program was evaluated for usefulness, successes, challenges, recommended improvements, and associations with changes in self-rated knowledge and confidence. Two months after the course, 42 participants completed an evaluation of the comentoring program with closed- and open-ended questions addressing usefulness, successes, challenges, pairing preferences, and recommendations. They also completed a record on whether or not they had worked on goals nominated in their comentoring contract. Before and 2 months after the course, they completed a self-rated questionnaire on knowledge and confidence. The comentoring program was recommended by 80% of participants. Benefits included opportunities for information and resource sharing, debriefing, problem solving, reassurance, and implementation of ideas. Ninety-five percent of participants worked on some or all their comentoring goals. Although there were significant improvements in knowledge (P < 0.001) and confidence (P < 0.001), the total comentoring evaluation score was not significantly associated with these changes. It is therefore possible that these improvements related to the course itself rather than the comentoring program. Challenges related to time, scheduling, distance, and pairing of comentors. Reported benefits of the program included enhanced psychosocial support and prompting to trial newly learned strategies. Effectiveness may be improved by setting aside time for comentoring in the workplace and better matching of comentors.

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

Spickermann, Thomas

There are opportunities for advancement within the team. Operators advance by: (1) Becoming fully qualified - following the LANSCE Accelerator Operator Training Manual, Operator trainees go through 5 levels of qualification, from Radiation Security System to Experimental Area Operator. Must obtain Knowledge and Performance checkouts by an OSS or AOSS, and an End-of-Card checkout by the team leader or RSS engineer (level I). Program was inspired by US NAVY qualification program for nuclear reactor operators. Time to complete: 2-2.5 years. (2) Fully qualified operators are eligible to apply for vacant (OSS)/AOSS positions; and (3) Alternatively, experienced operators can sign upmore » for the voluntary Senior Operator Qualification Program. They must demonstrate in-depth knowledge of all areas of the accelerator complex. Time to complete is 2-3 years (Minimum 4 years from fully qualified). Eligible for promotion to level between qualified operator and AOSS.« less

Prevention of weight gain following a worksite nutrition and exercise program: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Thorndike, Anne N; Sonnenberg, Lillian; Healey, Erica; Myint-U, Khinlei; Kvedar, Joseph C; Regan, Susan

2012-07-01

Many employers are now providing wellness programs to help employees make changes in diet and exercise behaviors. Improving health outcomes and reducing costs will depend on whether employees sustain lifestyle changes and maintain a healthy weight over time. To determine if a 9-month maintenance intervention immediately following a 10-week worksite exercise and nutrition program would prevent regain of the weight lost during the program. RCT. In 2008, a total of 330 employees from 24 teams completed a 10-week exercise and nutrition program at a large hospital worksite and were randomized by team to maintenance or control (usual care) for 9 months. Internet support with a website for goal-setting and self-monitoring of weight and exercise plus minimal personal support. Weight loss, percentage weight loss, time spent in physical activity, and frequency of consumption of fruits/vegetables, fatty foods, and sugary foods at 1 year compared to baseline. One-year follow-up was completed in 2010, and data were analyzed in 2011. At 1 year, 238 subjects (72%) completed follow-up assessments. Mean baseline BMI was 27.6 and did not differ between intervention and control. Compared to baseline, both groups lost weight during the 10-week program and maintained 65% of weight loss at 1 year (p<0.001). There was no difference in weight loss between groups at the end of the 10-week program (4.8 lbs vs 4.3 lbs, p=0.53 for group X time interaction) or end of maintenance at 1 year (3.4 lbs vs 2.5 lbs, p=0.40 for group X time interaction). All subjects had improvements in physical activity and nutrition (increased fruits/vegetables and decreased fat and sugar intake) at 1 year but did not differ by group. An intensive 10-week team-based worksite exercise and nutrition program resulted in moderate weight loss and improvements in diet and exercise behaviors at 1 year, but an Internet-based maintenance program immediately following the 10-week program did not improve these outcomes. This study is registered at clinicaltrials.gov NCT00707577. Copyright © 2012 American Journal of Preventive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

An analytical approach to thermal modeling of Bridgman type crystal growth: One dimensional analysis. Computer program users manual

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cothran, E. K.

1982-01-01

The computer program written in support of one dimensional analytical approach to thermal modeling of Bridgman type crystal growth is presented. The program listing and flow charts are included, along with the complete thermal model. Sample problems include detailed comments on input and output to aid the first time user.

Guidelines for a Training Program for Audiometric Technicians. Report of Working Group 66.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Glorig, Aram, Ed.; And Others

The document outlines a course designed to train audiometric technicians who will conduct pure-tone conduction tests as part of a program on hearing conservation in noise. A minimum of two days is required for the completion of the course. The outline of the training program presents nine topics with an indication of the minimum time required for…

Vocational Cosmetology: An Integrated Secondary-Post Secondary Curriculum Guide (Tentative).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Utah State Board for Vocational Education, Salt Lake City.

This guide for Cosmetology is part of a public school effort to articulate secondary and post-secondary vocational education programs. It is organized in a pattern of behavioral objectives so that students may enter and complete the program in high school, or in a post-secondary program, or may transfer and continue without loss of time. Of the…

Effects of summer internship and follow-up distance mentoring programs on middle and high school student perceptions and interest in health careers.

PubMed

Fernandez-Repollet, Emma; Locatis, Craig; De Jesus-Monge, Wilfredo E; Maisiak, Richard; Liu, Wei-Li

2018-05-02

Minorities are underrepresented in health professions and efforts to recruit minority students into health careers are considered a way to reduce health disparities. There is little research about the effectiveness of these programs, other than satisfaction. This study aimed to measure program effects on student understanding of and interest in health careers. Students took a career interest inventory, completed a scale measuring their self-reported understanding and interest in health careers, and wrote essays about health careers before and after completing a 1 week on campus internship on health careers and after a 9 month follow up distance mentoring program where they continued to interact with university faculty by videoconference about career options. Changes in inventory, scale, and essay scores were analyzed for changes over time using Wilcoxon and Mann-Whitney tests. Inventory scores were unchanged over time, but scale and essay scores trended upward significantly post internship and mentoring. Health career education and mentoring programs can positively affect student knowledge of health careers and their attitudes about them. The study's methods extend measures of program impact beyond satisfaction.

Suspension Needn't Arrest Learning.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Seegrist, Ruth

1985-01-01

An inschool suspension program at a Pennsylvania school district is described. Students spend suspension time completing classroom assignments under strict teacher supervision in detention halls. (TE)

A physical activity program to mobilize older people: a practical and sustainable approach.

PubMed

Jancey, Jonine M; Clarke, Ann; Howat, Peter A; Lee, Andy H; Shilton, Trevor; Fisher, John

2008-04-01

Despite the documented benefits of physical activity, it remains difficult to motivate older adults to start and maintain regular physical activity. This study tested an innovative intervention for mobilizing older adults into a neighborhood-based walking program. Researchers recruited a total of 260 healthy but insufficiently active adults aged 65 to 74 years and randomly selected from the Australian electoral roll from 30 Perth metropolitan neighborhoods. Social cognitive theory guided the design of the program. Researchers collected both qualitative and quantitative data to inform the development, together with ongoing process evaluation. A total of 65% of participants completed the program. Their mean weekly walking time for recreation increased by about 100 min, and 80% of participants reported that they would continue to walk twice per week upon program completion. This practical program is potentially effective and sustainable with respect to mobilizing physically inactive older people.

Glossary Defense Acquisition Acronyms and Terms

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-09-01

of work to complete a job or part of a project . Actual Cost A cost sustained in fact, on the basis of costs incurred, as... of a project which shows the activities to be completed and the time to complete them is represented by horizontal lines drawn in proportion to the ...recorded for the total estimated obligations for a program or project in the initial year of funding. (For distinction, see Full

Three Accelerated Developmental Education Programs: Features, Student Outcomes, and Implications

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jaggars, Shanna Smith; Hodara, Michelle; Cho, Sung-Woo; Xu, Di

2015-01-01

To support the long-term success of underprepared students, many community colleges are experimenting with accelerated developmental education models, which allow students to complete remediation and enroll in college-level math and English within a shorter time frame. This study examines three developmental acceleration programs, including two in…

Idea Project Final Report, Engineered Visibility Warning Signals: Tests Of Time To React, Detectability, Identifiability And Salience

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1996-05-01

THIS INVESTIGATION WAS COMPLETED AS PART OF THE ITS-IDEA PROGRAM WHICH IS ONE OF THREE IDEA PROGRAMS MANAGED BY THE TRANSPORTATION RESEARCH BOARD (TRB) TO FOSTER INNOVATIONS IN SURFACE TRANSPORTATION. IT FOCUSES ON PRODUCTS AND RESULT FOR THE DEVELOP...

Rethinking School Health

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bundy, Donald, Ed.

2011-01-01

School health and nutrition programs can contribute to achieving the goals of the Education for All initiative (EFA) by helping children enroll on time, complete their education, and realize their cognitive potential. Achieving these goals depends on reaching the children most in need. One strong feature of school health and nutrition programs is…

The Relationship between Job Satisfaction and Overall Wellness in Counselor Educators

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Riley, Julie

2017-01-01

This study explored the relationship between overall wellness and job satisfaction in counselor educators. Full-time counselor educators employed in higher education programs accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) completed the Five Factor Wellness Inventory to measure overall wellness…

Y-12 Groundwater Protection Program CY2012 Triennial Report Of The Monitoring Well Inspection And Maintenance Program Y-12 National Security Complex, Oak Ridge, Tennessee

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

None

2013-09-01

This document is the triennial report for the Well Inspection and Maintenance Program of the Y- 12 Groundwater Protection Program (GWPP), at the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Y-12 National Security Complex (Y-12). This report formally documents well inspections completed by the GWPP on active and inactive wells at Y-12 during calendar years (CY) 2010 through 2012. In addition, this report also documents well inspections performed under the Y-12 Water Resources Restoration Program, which is administered by URS|CH2M Oak Ridge (UCOR). This report documents well maintenance activities completed since the last triennial inspection event (CY 2009); and provides summary tablesmore » of well inspections and well maintenance activities during the reference time period.« less

A 14- to 24-year longitudinal study of a comprehensive sexual health model treatment program for adolescent sex offenders: predictors of successful completion and subsequent criminal recidivism.

PubMed

Seabloom, William; Seabloom, Mary E; Seabloom, Eric; Barron, Robert; Hendrickson, Sharon

2003-08-01

The study determines the effectiveness of a sexuality-positive adolescent sexual offender treatment program and examines subsequent criminal recidivism in the three outcome groups (completed, withdrawn, referred). The sample consists of 122 adolescent males and their families (491 individuals). Of the demographic variables, only living situation was significant, such that patients living with parents were more likely to graduate. None of the behavioral variables were found to be significant. Of the treatment variables, length of time in the program and participation in the Family Journey Seminar were included in the final model. When they were included in the model, no other treatment variable were significantly related to probability of graduation. There were no arrests or convictions for sex-related crimes in the population of participants that successfully completed the program. This group was also less likely than the other groups to be arrested (p = 0.014) or convicted (p = 0.004) across all crime categories.

40 CFR 35.110 - Time frame for EPA action.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 1 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Time frame for EPA action. 35.110... ASSISTANCE STATE AND LOCAL ASSISTANCE Environmental Program Grants Epa Action on Application § 35.110 Time frame for EPA action. The Regional Administrator will review a complete application and either approve...

Application of time series discretization using evolutionary programming for classification of precancerous cervical lesions.

PubMed

Acosta-Mesa, Héctor-Gabriel; Rechy-Ramírez, Fernando; Mezura-Montes, Efrén; Cruz-Ramírez, Nicandro; Hernández Jiménez, Rodolfo

2014-06-01

In this work, we present a novel application of time series discretization using evolutionary programming for the classification of precancerous cervical lesions. The approach optimizes the number of intervals in which the length and amplitude of the time series should be compressed, preserving the important information for classification purposes. Using evolutionary programming, the search for a good discretization scheme is guided by a cost function which considers three criteria: the entropy regarding the classification, the complexity measured as the number of different strings needed to represent the complete data set, and the compression rate assessed as the length of the discrete representation. This discretization approach is evaluated using a time series data based on temporal patterns observed during a classical test used in cervical cancer detection; the classification accuracy reached by our method is compared with the well-known times series discretization algorithm SAX and the dimensionality reduction method PCA. Statistical analysis of the classification accuracy shows that the discrete representation is as efficient as the complete raw representation for the present application, reducing the dimensionality of the time series length by 97%. This representation is also very competitive in terms of classification accuracy when compared with similar approaches. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Feasibility and Potential Impact of Brain Training Games on Cognitive and Emotional Functioning in Middle-Aged Adults.

PubMed

McLaughlin, Paula M; Curtis, Ashley F; Branscombe-Caird, Laura M; Comrie, Janna K; Murtha, Susan J E

2018-02-01

To investigate whether a commercially available brain training program is feasible to use with a middle-aged population and has a potential impact on cognition and emotional well-being (proof of concept). Fourteen participants (ages 46-55) completed two 6-week training conditions using a crossover (counterbalanced) design: (1) experimental brain training condition and (2) active control "find answers to trivia questions online" condition. A comprehensive neurocognitive battery and a self-report measure of depression and anxiety were administered at baseline (first time point, before training) and after completing each training condition (second time point at 6 weeks, and third time point at 12 weeks). Cognitive composite scores were calculated for participants at each time point. Study completion and protocol adherence demonstrated good feasibility of this brain training protocol in healthy middle-aged adults. Exploratory analyses suggested that brain training was associated with neurocognitive improvements related to executive attention, as well as improvements in mood. Overall, our findings suggest that brain training programs are feasible in middle-aged cohorts. We propose that brain training games may be linked to improvements in executive attention and affect by promoting cognitive self-efficacy in middle-aged adults.

Essentials of Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship: Part 6: Program Administration.

PubMed

Kim, In K; Zuckerbraun, Noel; Kou, Maybelle; Vu, Tien; Levasseur, Kelly; Yen, Kenneth; Chapman, Jennifer; Doughty, Cara; McAneney, Constance; Zaveri, Pavan; Hsu, Deborah

2016-10-01

This article is the sixth in a 7-part series that aims to comprehensively describe the current state and future directions of pediatric emergency medicine (PEM) fellowship training from the essential requirements to considerations for successfully administering and managing a program to the careers that may be anticipated upon program completion. This article provides a broad overview of administering and supervising a PEM fellowship program. It explores 3 topics: the principles of program administration, committee management, and recommendations for minimum time allocated for PEM fellowship program directors to administer their programs.

Logging while fishing: An alternate method to cut and thread fishing

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

Tollefsen, E.; Crary, S.; Flores, B.

1996-12-31

New technology has been introduced to allow completion of the wireline logging program after the tool string has become lodged in the wellbore. Charges associated with extracting a stuck tool are substantial. These charges result from the nonproductive time during the fishing trip, an associated wiper trip, and re-logging the well. The ability to continue the logging program while retrieving the logging string from the wellbore is needed. Logging While Fishing (LWF) is a hybrid of existing technologies combined with a new sub capable of severing a cable remotely. This new method is comprised of cut and thread fishing, drillpipemore » conveyed logging, and bridled tool techniques. Utilizing these techniques it is possible to complete wireline logging operations while removing a stuck tool from the wellbore. Completing logging operations using this hybrid method will save operating companies time and money. Other benefits, depending on the situation, include reduced fishing time and an increased level of safety. This application has been demonstrated on jobs in the Gulf of Mexico, North Sea, Venezuela, and Southeast Asia.« less

The reality of teenage driving: the results of a driving educational experience for teens in the juvenile court system.

PubMed

Manno, Mariann; Maranda, Louise; Rook, Allison; Hirschfeld, Ryan; Hirsh, Michael

2012-10-01

In the United States, one third of all deaths in teens are a result of motor vehicle crashes, accounting for 6,000 deaths annually. Injury Free Coalition for Kids-Worcester in collaboration with Worcester Juvenile Court has developed an interactive program for first-time teenaged driving offenders, Reality Intensive Driver Education (Teen RIDE). This full-day program at the trauma center provides a realistic exposure to the consequences of risky driving behaviors. This article examined the driving offense recidivism rates for Teen RIDE participants versus a comparison group (CG). The intervention group (IG) consists of teenagers between 13 years and 17 years who have been arrested for the first time for a serious driving offense and are sentenced by a Worcester Juvenile Court Judge or Magistrate to the Teen RIDE program. They are required to attend the program as a condition of probation, so attendance is mandatory. Each participant in the IG completed the program and was tracked for driving reoffenses for 6 months after completion of the course. The CG consists of also first-time driving offenders. The CG was matched with the IG with respect to age (13-17 years), sex, and offense type. Springfield, Massachusetts, serves as the site for recruitment of the CG, since it is demographically similar to Worcester but 60 mi away. Students in the CG had no exposure to this program. Each CG member was also tracked for 6 months after arrest. The recidivism rate for Teen RIDE participants 6 months after the course is 6% with 0% reoffending more than once. The CG has a recidivism rate of 56% 6 months after the arrest and 14% have more than one reoffense. The CG is 13.062 (4.296-39.713) times more likely to reoffend, and this is significant (p < 0.001). The Teen RIDE program provides an impactful exposure of the consequences of risky driving behaviors to teenaged participants. In addition, Teen RIDE participants are significantly less likely to reoffend after completion of the course. Therapeutic study, level III.

Characteristics and outcomes of Canadian MD/PhD program graduates: a cross-sectional survey

PubMed Central

Skinnider, Michael A.; Squair, Jordan W.; Twa, David D.W.; Ji, Jennifer X.; Kuzyk, Alexandra; Wang, Xin; Steadman, Patrick E.; Zaslavsky, Kirill; Dey, Ayan K.; Eisenberg, Mark J.; Gagné, Ève-Reine; HayGlass, Kent T.; Lewis, James F.; Margetts, Peter J.; Underhill, D. Alan; Rosenblum, Norman D.; Raymond, Lynn A.

2017-01-01

Background: Combined MD/PhD programs provide a structured path for physician-scientist training, but assessment of their success within Canada is limited by a lack of quantitative data. We collected outcomes data for graduates of Canadian MD/PhD programs. Methods: We developed and implemented a Web-based survey consisting of 41 questions designed to collect outcomes data for Canadian MD/PhD program alumni from 8 Canadian universities who had graduated before September 2015. Respondents were categorized into 2 groups according to whether they had or had not completed all training. Results: Of the 186 eligible alumni of MD/PhD programs, 139 (74.7%) completed the survey. A total of 136/138 respondents (98.6%) had completed or were currently completing residency training, and 66/80 (82%) had completed at least 1 postgraduate fellowship. Most (58 [83%]) of the 70 respondents who had completed all training were appointed as faculty at academic institutions, and 37 (53%) had been principal investigators on at least 1 recent funded project. Among the 58 respondents appointed at academic institutions, 44/57 (77%) dedicated at least 20% of their time to research, and 25/57 (44%) dedicated at least 50% to research. During their combined degree, 102/136 respondents (75.0%) published 3 or more first-author papers, and 133/136 (97.8%) matched with their first choice of specialty. The median length of physician-scientist training was 13.5 years. Most respondents graduated with debt despite having been supported by Canadian Institutes of Health Research MD/PhD studentships. Interpretation: Most Canadian MD/PhD program alumni pursued careers consistent with their physician-scientist training, which indicates that these programs are meeting their primary objective. Nevertheless, our findings highlight that a minority of these positions are research intensive; this finding warrants further study. Our data provide a baseline for future monitoring of the output of Canadian MD/PhD programs. PMID:28442493

Emotional intelligence increases over time: A longitudinal study of Australian pre-registration nursing students.

PubMed

Foster, Kim; Fethney, Judith; McKenzie, Heather; Fisher, Murray; Harkness, Emily; Kozlowski, Desirée

2017-08-01

Emotional intelligence (EI) has been associated with positive outcomes for nursing students. Higher EI is associated with personal wellbeing and stress management, higher academic performance, stronger nursing leadership and practice performance, and greater patient safety. While there is an increasing body of evidence on nursing students' EI, there is minimal evidence on EI over time during pre-registration programs. To measure EI in pre-registration nursing students from program commencement to conclusion to ascertain EI over time and examine the relationship between EI and academic performance. Longitudinal repeated measures study between March 2010-February 2013 at a metropolitan university in Australia. 111 nursing students (74.8% female) contributed data on at least two occasions. Participants were enrolled in a pre-registration Master of Nursing degree. Half the cohort (55.0%) comprised Graduate Entry students who completed the course in two years full time. The other 45% were enrolled in an undergraduate degree in arts, science or health science, combined with the same pre-registration Master of Nursing Degree. These students completed their Combined Degree program in four years full time. Participants had a mean age of 24.7years (SD=7.36). EI was measured for commencing students (T1) using the Assessing Emotions Scale (AES), then a further three times: end of first year (T2; 9 months follow up); beginning of second year (12 months follow up; T3) and end of the program (T4; 24/36 months follow up). Students' EI was found to increase across the program; one subscale of EI (managing others' emotions) was related to higher academic performance; and there was a significant increase in the Utilising Emotions subscale scores over time. Pre-registration nurse education contributes to strengthening students' EI over time. Specific EI education scaffolded throughout programs is recommended in pre-registration curricula. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

A PLAN FOR EXPANSION AND DEVELOPMENT OF EDUCATION DEPARTMENTS OF FLORIDA DIVISION OF CORRECTIONS, IN COOPERATION WITH FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY ADULT EDUCATION DEPARTMENT.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

ENDWRIGHT, D.K.

THE PLAN FOR EXPANSION AND DEVELOPMENT OF EDUCATION PROGRAMS IN CORRECTIVE INSTITUTIONS IS ORGANIZED INTO FIVE TIMED PHASES TO BE COMPLETED IN THREE YEARS. A CHART REPRESENTING THE PROGRAM, AFFILIATED RESEARCH AND AGENCIES DELINEATES PLANNED ACTIVITIES. PHASE ONE (15 WEEKS) WILL SURVEY EXISTING PROGRAMS (VOCATIONAL AND ACADEMIC FACILITIES,…

District Awards for Teacher Excellence (D.A.T.E.) Program: Year One Evaluation Report. Policy Evaluation Report. [Executive Summary

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Springer, Matthew G.; Lewis, Jessica L.; Podgursky, Michael J.; Ehlert, Mark W.; Taylor, Lori L.; Lopez, Omar S.; Ghoshdastidar, Bonnie; Peng, Art

2010-01-01

The District Awards for Teacher Excellence's (D.A.T.E.'s) first year of implementation in 2008-09 occurred at a time when Texas was operating several state-funded performance pay programs. The three-year Governor's Educator Excellence Grant (G.E.E.G.) program was coming to its expected completion, while the Texas Educator Excellence Grant…

Using the Program Sustainability Assessment Tool to Assess and Plan for Sustainability

PubMed Central

Mainor, Avia; Moreland-Russell, Sarah; Maier, Ryan C.; Brossart, Laura; Luke, Douglas A.

2014-01-01

Implementing and growing a public health program that benefits society takes considerable time and effort. To ensure that positive outcomes are maintained over time, program managers and stakeholders should plan and implement activities to build sustainability capacity within their programs. We describe a 3-part sustainability planning process that programs can follow to build their sustainability capacity. First, program staff and stakeholders take the Program Sustainability Assessment Tool to measure their program’s sustainability across 8 domains. Next, managers and stakeholders use results from the assessment to inform and prioritize sustainability action planning. Lastly, staff members implement the plan and keep track of progress toward their sustainability goals. Through this process, staff can more holistically address the internal and external challenges and pressures associated with sustaining a program. We include a case example of a chronic disease program that completed the Program Sustainability Assessment Tool and engaged in program sustainability planning. PMID:24456644

Retention of fundamental surgical skills learned in robot-assisted surgery.

PubMed

Suh, Irene H; Mukherjee, Mukul; Shah, Bhavin C; Oleynikov, Dmitry; Siu, Ka-Chun

2012-12-01

Evaluation of the learning curve for robotic surgery has shown reduced errors and decreased task completion and training times compared with regular laparoscopic surgery. However, most training evaluations of robotic surgery have only addressed short-term retention after the completion of training. Our goal was to investigate the amount of surgical skills retained after 3 months of training with the da Vinci™ Surgical System. Seven medical students without any surgical experience were recruited. Participants were trained with a 4-day training program of robotic surgical skills and underwent a series of retention tests at 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months post-training. Data analysis included time to task completion, speed, distance traveled, and movement curvature by the instrument tip. Performance of the participants was graded using the modified Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) for robotic surgery. Participants filled out a survey after each training session by answering a set of questions. Time to task completion and the movement curvature was decreased from pre- to post-training and the performance was retained at all the corresponding retention periods: 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months. The modified OSATS showed improvement from pre-test to post-test and this improvement was maintained during all the retention periods. Participants increased in self-confidence and mastery in performing robotic surgical tasks after training. Our novel comprehensive training program improved robot-assisted surgical performance and learning. All trainees retained their fundamental surgical skills for 3 months after receiving the training program.

Characteristics of Social and Administrative Sciences graduate programs and strategies for student recruitment and future faculty development in the United States.

PubMed

Westrick, Salisa C; Kamal, Khalid M; Moczygemba, Leticia R; Breland, Michelle L; Heaton, Pamela C

2013-01-01

The rising demand of faculty in Social and Administrative Sciences (SAS) in pharmacy in the United States heightens the need to increase the number of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) graduates in SAS who choose to pursue an academic career. To describe the characteristics of SAS graduate programs and graduate students and identify strategies for student recruitment and future faculty development. An Internet survey (phase I) with key informants (graduate program officers/department chairs) and semistructured telephone interviews (phase II) with phase I respondents were used. Items solicited data on recruitment strategies, number of students, stipends, support, and other relevant issues pertaining to graduate program administration. Descriptive statistics were tabulated. Of the 40 SAS graduate programs identified and contacted, 24 completed the Internet survey (response rate [RR]=60.0%) and, of these, 16 completed the telephone interview (RR=66.7%). At the time of the survey, the median number of graduate students with a U.S.-based PharmD degree was 3. An average annual stipend for graduate assistants was $20,825. The average time to PhD degree completion was 4.57 years, and approximately 31% of PhD graduates entered academia. Various strategies for recruitment and future faculty development were identified and documented. Findings allow SAS graduate programs to benchmark against other institutions with respect to their own achievement/strategies to remain competitive in student recruitment and development. Additional research is needed to determine the success of various recruitment strategies and identify potential new ones. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Longitudinal Evaluation of Community Support Project to Improve Oral Function in Japanese Elderly.

PubMed

Sakayori, Takaharu; Maki, Yoshinobu; Ohkubo, Mai; Ishida, Ryo; Hirata, SoIchiro; Ishii, Takuo

2016-01-01

Change in oral function was evaluated longitudinally in elderly persons participating in an Exercises for Healthy Oral Function program implemented as part of the Long-Term Care Prevention Project. The participants comprised high-risk and healthy persons aged 65 yr or over. A questionnaire was used to classify them into two groups ('every day or sometimes' or 'rarely') at the end of the study for a comparison of change in repetitive saliva swallowing test (RSST) scores and oral diadochokinesis between 3 time points: at before, at immediately after, and at 1 yr after completion of the program. The average RSST score showed a decrease at 1 yr after intervention, but the difference was not statistically significant. Oral diadochokinesis showed a significant increase for all syllables upon completion of the program compared with at the beginning. This was followed by a significant decrease at 1 yr later compared with at the time of completion in the 'rarely' group for all syllables, but not in the 'every day or sometimes' group. In addition, the number of repetitions was significantly lower in the 'rarely' group than in the 'every day or sometimes' group for all syllables at 1 yr after completion. The results of the present study suggest that Long-Term Care Prevention Projects are necessary to maintain and improve oral function.

Listening to depression and suicide risk in medical students: the Healer Education Assessment and Referral (HEAR) Program.

PubMed

Downs, Nancy; Feng, Wendy; Kirby, Brittany; McGuire, Tara; Moutier, Christine; Norcross, William; Norman, Marc; Young, Ilanit; Zisook, Sid

2014-10-01

A growing body of literature documents high rates of burnout, depression, and suicidal ideation among physicians and medical students. Barriers to seeking mental health treatment in this group include concerns about time, stigma, confidentiality, and potential career impact. The authors describe a 4-year trial of the Healer Education Assessment and Referral (HEAR) program, designed to increase mental health services utilization (MHSU) and decrease suicide risk (SR) as assessed by an Interactive Screening Program (ISP)at one US medical school. Over a 4-year period, medical students were engaged in face-to-face, campus-wide, educational group programs and were invited to complete an individual, online, and anonymous survey. This survey contained the 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) scale to assess depression and items to identify suicidal thoughts and behaviors, substance use, distressing emotional states, and the use of mental health treatment. Students who engaged in this ISP by corresponding electronically with a counselor after completing the survey were assessed and when indicated, referred to further treatment. The HEAR program was delivered to 1,008 medical students. Thirty-four percent (343/1,008) completed the online screening portion. Almost 8 % of respondents met the criteria for high/significant SR upon analysis of the completed screens. Ten out of 13 of the students with SR who dialogued with a counselor were not already receiving mental health treatment, indicating that this anonymous ISP identified a high proportion of an untreated, at risk, and potentially suicidal population. MHSU among medical students who completed the survey was 11.5 % in year 1 and 15.0 % by year 4. SR among medical students was 8.8 % in year 1 and 6.2 % in year 4 as assessed by the ISP. This novel interventional program identified at risk, potentially suicidal medical students at one institution. Based on this single-site experience, we suggest that future multisite studies incorporate a comparison group, acquire baseline (prematriculation) data regarding MHSU and SR, and use an individualized yet anonymous identification system to measure changes in individual participants' mental health status over time.

Breath-hold times in air compared to breath-hold times during cold water immersions.

PubMed

Taber, Michael J; MacKinnon, Scott N; Power, Jonathan; Walker, Robert

2015-02-01

Given the effects of cold water immersion on breath-hold (BH) capabilities, a practical training exercise was developed for military/paramilitary personnel completing a helicopter underwater egress training (HUET) program. The exercise was designed to provide firsth and experience of the effects of cold water exposure on BH time. After completing the required HUET, 47 subjects completed two BH testing sessions as well as a short questionnaire. The first BH was completed while standing on the pool deck. The second BH was completed while fully immersed (face down) in 2-3°C water. There were 40 of the volunteers who also breathed from an emergency breathing system (EBS) while in the cold water. Results demonstrated that BH capabilities in cold water were significantly lower than those in ambient air. A significant correlation was also found between BH in air and the difference in cold water vs. air BH capabilities, which suggests that subjects who can hold their breath the longest in air experienced the greatest decrease in BH when immersed. Results indicate that 92% of the subjects reported that the practical cold water immersion exercise had a high value. Finally, 58% of those who used the EBS reported that it was harder to breathe in cold water than while in the training pool (approximately 22°C). The BH times for this group were similar to those reported in previous cold water immersion studies. Based on the questionnaire results, it is possible, when carefully applied, to include a practical cold water immersion exercise into existing HUET programs.

The Cost and Burden of the Residency Match in Emergency Medicine.

PubMed

Blackshaw, Aaron M; Watson, Simon C; Bush, Jeffrey S

2017-01-01

To obtain a residency match, medical students entering emergency medicine (EM) must complete away rotations, submit a number of lengthy applications, and travel to multiple programs to interview. The expenses incurred acquiring this residency position are burdensome, but there is little specialty-specific data estimating it. We sought to quantify the actual cost spent by medical students applying to EM residency programs by surveying students as they attended a residency interview. Researchers created a 16-item survey, which asked about the time and monetary costs associated with the entire EM residency application process. Applicants chosen to interview for an EM residency position at our institution were invited to complete the survey during their interview day. In total, 66 out of a possible 81 residency applicants (an 81% response rate) completed our survey. The "average applicant" who interviewed at our residency program for the 2015-16 cycle completed 1.6 away, or "audition," rotations, each costing an average of $1,065 to complete. This "average applicant" applied to 42.8 programs, and then attended 13.7 interviews. The cost of interviewing at our program averaged $342 and in total , an average of $8,312 would be spent in the pursuit of an EM residency. Due to multiple factors, the costs of securing an EM residency spot can be expensive. By understanding the components that are driving this trend, we hope that the academic EM community can explore avenues to help curtail these costs.

Suicide prevention as a community development process: understanding circumpolar youth suicide prevention through community level outcomes.

PubMed

Allen, James; Mohatt, Gerald; Fok, Carlotta Ching Ting; Henry, David

2009-06-01

Community-based models have become increasingly prominent in prevention, and have special relevance for suicide prevention in circumpolar Indigenous communities. It follows that outcomes from circumpolar suicide prevention programs might be more completely understood at the community level. We present here a methodology for analysis at this level. This paper seeks to understand a cultural prevention program for rural Yup'ik youth in Alaska targeting suicide and co-occurring alcohol abuse as a community development process through changes at the community level. Quasi-experimental design with assessment at pre- and post-intervention or at 4 time points. The community development process for this project began in October 2004. The first program baseline assessment began in November 2006, prior to prevention activities with youth and parents, and the post-intervention assessment concluded in March 2008. Five key informants pre- and post-intervention completed a community readiness assessment, which is a structured procedure assessing a community's awareness of suicide as an issue and its, organizational readiness for prevention programming. Forty-three adult caregivers or sponsors of youth in the prevention program completed an assessment of behaviours that contributed to community protective factors from youth suicide and alcohol abuse at 4 time points before, during and after the intervention. The 54 youth who participated in the prevention program completed an assessment of community protective factors, also at 4 time points before, during and after the intervention. The community protective factors from suicide that were assessed included safety, enforcement of alcohol prohibitions, role models, support and opportunities for youth. Community readiness for the prevention efforts increased to new developmental stages of readiness post-intervention, and a trend in the data suggested community protective factors increased in the amount of protective behaviours performed by adults (slope estimate = 0.0162, 95% CI--0.0028-0.0351, d=.55) and in the perceptions of youth (slope estimate=0.0148, 95% CI--0.0004-0.0291, d=.45), in a dose response relationship to the number of prevention program sessions attended by adults and youth. Using data from a feasibility study, this paper demonstrates the feasibility and potential utility of methodological approaches that use community-level variables beyond individual level outcomes in circumpolar suicide prevention research.

Interactive Virtual Suturing Simulations: Enhancement of Student Learning in Veterinary Medicine

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Staton, Amy J.; Boyd, Christine B.

2013-01-01

This capstone addresses an instructional gap in the Morehead State University Veterinary Technology Program and in other similar programs around the globe. Students do not retain the knowledge needed to proficiently complete suture patterns nor do students receive sufficient instructional time during the year to master each suture pattern that is…

Paid Early Field Experience for College Education Majors.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Luttrell, H. Dale; And Others

North Texas State University (NTSU) has instituted a cooperative program which allows junior level education majors to become full-time paid teacher aides in participating school districts. The students work for one semester and are closely supervised by their university supervisor. To enter the program, they must have completed a minimum of…

Predictors of Retention and Passing National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Elkins, Nancy

2013-01-01

The current nursing shortage has challenged colleges to educate nurses at a faster pace than in previous times. Successful completion of the nursing programs and passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) exam is important for the students, faculty, and nursing programs. The purpose of this retrospective…

THE WASHINGTON DATA PROCESSING TRAINING STORY.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

MCKEE, R.L.

A DATA PROCESSING TRAINING PROGRAM IN WASHINGTON HAD 10 DATA PROCESSING CENTERS IN OPERATION AND EIGHT MORE IN VARIOUS STAGES OF PLANNING IN 1963. THESE CENTERS WERE FULL-TIME DAY PREPARATORY 2-YEAR POST-HIGH SCHOOL TECHNICIAN TRAINING PROGRAMS, OPERATED AND ADMINISTERED BY THE LOCAL BOARDS OF EDUCATION. EACH SCHOOL HAD A COMPLETE DATA PROCESSING…

29 CFR 29.7 - Apprenticeship agreement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... spent by the apprentice in work on the job in a time-based program; or a description of the skill sets to be attained by completion of a competency-based program, including the on-the-job learning... hours per year. (f) A statement setting forth a schedule of the work processes in the occupation or...

29 CFR 29.7 - Apprenticeship agreement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... spent by the apprentice in work on the job in a time-based program; or a description of the skill sets to be attained by completion of a competency-based program, including the on-the-job learning... hours per year. (f) A statement setting forth a schedule of the work processes in the occupation or...

5 CFR 890.102 - Coverage.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... less. (2) An employee who is expected to work less than 6 months in each year, except for an employee who is employed under an OPM approved career-related work-study program under Schedule B of at least 1... time from the date of the first appointment to the completion of the work-study program. (3) An...

Drill Press Operator: Instructor's Guide.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kagan, Alfred; And Others

The course is intended to help meet, in a relatively short time, the need for trained operators in metalworking. It can be used by students with little education or experience and is suitable for use in adult education programs and in manpower development and training programs. The course is designed to be completed in approximately 30 weeks and…

Fall Risk-Relevant Functional Mobility Outcomes in Dementia Following Dyadic Tai Chi Exercise

PubMed Central

Yao, Lan; Giordani, Bruno J.; Algase, Donna L.; You, Mei; Alexander, Neil B.

2012-01-01

Whether persons with dementia benefit from fall prevention exercise is unclear. Applying the Positive Emotion-Motivated Tai Chi protocol, preliminary findings concerning adherence and effects of a dyadic Tai Chi exercise program on persons with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are reported. Using pre/ posttest design, 22 community-dwelling AD-caregiver dyads participated in the program. Fall-risk-relevant functional mobility was measured using Unipedal Stance Time (UST) and Timed Up and Go (TUG) tests. Results showed that 19/22 (86.4%) AD patients completed the 16-week program and final assessment; 16/19 dyads (84.2%) completed the prescribed home program as reported by caregivers. UST adjusted mean improved from 4.0 to 5.1 (Week 4, p < .05) and 5.6 (Week 16, p < .05); TUG improved from 13.2 to 11.6 (Week 4, p < .05) and 11.6 (Week 16, p > .05) post intervention. Retaining dementia patients in an exercise intervention remains challenging. The dyadic Tai Chi approach appears to succeed in keeping AD-caregiver dyads exercising and safe. PMID:22517441

Fall risk-relevant functional mobility outcomes in dementia following dyadic tai chi exercise.

PubMed

Yao, Lan; Giordani, Bruno J; Algase, Donna L; You, Mei; Alexander, Neil B

2013-03-01

Whether persons with dementia benefit from fall prevention exercise is unclear. Applying the Positive Emotion-Motivated Tai Chi protocol, preliminary findings concerning adherence and effects of a dyadic Tai Chi exercise program on persons with Alzheimer's disease (AD) are reported. Using pre/posttest design, 22 community-dwelling AD-caregiver dyads participated in the program. Fall-risk-relevant functional mobility was measured using Unipedal Stance Time (UST) and Timed Up and Go (TUG) tests. Results showed that 19/22 (86.4%) AD patients completed the 16-week program and final assessment; 16/19 dyads (84.2%) completed the prescribed home program as reported by caregivers. UST adjusted mean improved from 4.0 to 5.1 (Week 4, p < .05) and 5.6 (Week 16, p < .05); TUG improved from 13.2 to 11.6 (Week 4, p < .05) and 11.6 (Week 16, p > .05) post intervention. Retaining dementia patients in an exercise intervention remains challenging. The dyadic Tai Chi approach appears to succeed in keeping AD-caregiver dyads exercising and safe.

40 CFR 239.13 - Criteria and procedures for withdrawal of determination of adequacy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... establish a time period within which the state must correct any program deficiencies and inform the State Director of the time period in writing. (e) Within the schedule negotiated by the Regional Administrator... state a reasonable time for the state to complete such action to correct deficiencies as the Regional...

Timely Doctoral Completion Rates in Five Fields: A Two-Part Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Miller, Angela Melissa

2013-01-01

Roughly half of all doctoral students who begin a program do not continue through graduation, and many of them face significant financial losses and emotional burdens as a result. Although this completion rate has stayed fairly constant for the past few decades, it has recently gained attention on a national level. In 2011, the National Research…

75 FR 65039 - Submission for Review: Program Services Evaluation Surveys, OMB Control No. 3206-NEW

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-10-21

... will be completed in the next 3 years. The time estimate varies from 1 minute to 40 minutes to complete... 75 FR 35092 allowing for a 60-day public comment period. No comments were received for this... Office of Management and Budget is particularly interested in comments that: 1. Evaluate whether the...

Special-"T" Training: Extended Follow-up Results from a Residency-Wide Professionalism Workshop on Transgender Health.

PubMed

Kidd, Jeremy D; Bockting, Walter; Cabaniss, Deborah L; Blumenshine, Philip

2016-10-01

Transgender people face unique challenges when accessing health care, including stigma and discrimination. Most residency programs devote little time to this marginalized population. The authors developed a 90-min workshop to enhance residents' ability to empathize with and professionally treat transgender patients. Attendees completed pre-, post, and 90-day follow-up surveys to assess perceived empathy, knowledge, comfort, interview skill, and motivation for future learning. Twenty-two residents (64.7 %) completed pre- and post-workshop surveys; 90.9 % of these completed the 90-day follow-up. Compared to baseline, there were statistically significant post-workshop increases in perceived empathy, knowledge, comfort, and motivation for future learning. However on 90-day follow-up, there were no statistically significant differences across any of the five domains, compared to baseline. This workshop produced significant short-term increases in resident professionalism toward transgender patients. However, extended follow-up results highlight the limitations of one-time interventions and call for recurrent programming to yield durable improvements.

The effect of a complex training program on skating abilities in ice hockey players.

PubMed

Lee, Changyoung; Lee, Sookyung; Yoo, Jaehyun

2014-04-01

[Purpose] Little data exist on systemic training programs to improve skating abilities in ice hockey players. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a complex training program on skating abilities in ice hockey players. [Methods] Ten male ice hockey players (training group) that engaged in 12 weeks of complex training and skating training and ten male players (control group) that only participated in 12 weeks of skating training completed on-ice skating tests including a 5 time 18 meters shuttle, t-test, Rink dash 5 times, and line drill before, during, and the training. [Results] Significant group-by-time interactions were found in all skating ability tests. [Conclusion] The complex training program intervention for 12 weeks improved their skating abilities of the ice hockey players.

American Indian and Indigenous Geoscience Program: Ensuring the Evolution of Diverse STEM Scientists and Researchers in the 21st Century and Beyond

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bolman, J. R.

2013-05-01

Have you ever been lost? Knowing where you want to go yet unsure how to get there? In today's contemporary society you deploy the use of a navigator or navigation system. This is also one component of a cultural geoscience program in ensuring diverse students complete with excellence and success their route to research and education. The critical components of a cultural geoscience program and the role of cultural mentors are broad and the opportunity to expand one's own personal and professional success in science and society is immense. There remains a critical need and challenge to increase the representation of underrepresented people in the sciences. To address this challenge a navigational geoscience program approach was developed centered on the incorporation of traditional knowledge into modern research and education. The approach incorporates defining cultural/personal choices for a STEM vocation, developing science research with a "purpose", and refining leadership. The program model incorporates a mentor's personal oral histories and experiences in education, research and life. The goal is to ensure the next generation of scientists and researchers are more diverse, highly educated, experienced and leadership orientated by the time they complete STEM programs - then by the time they are our age, have our level of education and experience.

Effects of Participation in Sports Programs on Walking Ability and Endurance Over Time in Children With Cerebral Palsy.

PubMed

Ross, Sandy A; Yount, Morgan; Ankarstad, Sara; Bock, Samantha; Orso, Britta; Perry, Kimberly; Miros, Jennifer; Brunstrom-Hernandez, Janice E

2017-12-01

Children with cerebral palsy may benefit from maintaining a high level of physical fitness similar to typically developing children especially in terms of long-term physical performance, although in practice this is often difficult. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of participation in sports programs on walking ability and endurance over time. A retrospective cohort study included participants with cerebral palsy, aged 6 to 20 yrs, who attended a summer sports program from 2004 to 2012. There were 256 participant sessions with pre/post data recorded. The participants consisted of a total of 97 children (mean age [SD] = 11.4 [3.1] yrs), many of whom attended multiple programs throughout the years. Programs were held 6 hrs/d, 5 d/wk for up to 4 wks. Outcome measures included the Timed Up and Go, modified 6-min walk, and 25-ft walk/run. The results showed significant improvements in the Timed Up and Go, modified 6-min walk distance and 25-ft walk/run over time. Children in Gross Motor Classification System level III made the largest gains. Walking ability and endurance seem to improve after participation in an intensive summer sports programs. Higher frequency of program attendance resulted in significant improvements in the Timed Up and Go. Complete the self-assessment activity and evaluation online at http://www.physiatry.org/JournalCME CME OBJECTIVES: Upon completion of this article, the reader should be able to: (1) Discuss the importance of physical activity at the participation level (sports programs) for children with cerebral palsy; (2) Contrast the changes in walking ability and endurance for children in Gross Motor Function Classification System level I, II, and III after sports programs; and (3) Identify the impact of higher frequency of sports program attendance over time on walking ability. Advanced ACCREDITATION: The Association of Academic Physiatrists is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.The Association of Academic Physiatrists designates this Journal-based CME activity for a maximum of 0.75 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

A methodology for the evaluation of program cost and schedule risk for the SEASAT program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Abram, P.; Myers, D.

1976-01-01

An interactive computerized project management software package (RISKNET) is designed to analyze the effect of the risk involved in each specific activity on the results of the total SEASAT-A program. Both the time and the cost of each distinct activity can be modeled with an uncertainty interval so as to provide the project manager with not only the expected time and cost for the completion of the total program, but also with the expected range of costs corresponding to any desired level of significance. The nature of the SEASAT-A program is described. The capabilities of RISKNET and the implementation plan of a RISKNET analysis for the development of SEASAT-A are presented.

DC-10-10 winglet flight test program management

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Agar, J. R.

1982-01-01

This paper discusses the McDonnell Douglas/NASA DC-10-10 winglet flight test program from a program management viewpoint. The program was conducted to obtain flight test data on the same airplane with and without winglets for direct comparison. As occasionally happens in flight tests, unexpected events occur. This program was encumbered by a low-speed buffet anomaly that required several configuration modifications before satisfactory performance could be attained. This paper relates the management techniques utilized to accommodate the unplanned increases in program scope and still complete the program on time and below the budgeted cost.

[Effects of SaludArte program in feeding and nutrition components in school children in Mexico City].

PubMed

Shamah-Levy, Teresa; Cuevas-Nasu, Lucía; Gómez-Acosta, Luz María; Morales-Ruan, Ma Del Carmen; Méndez-Gómez Humarán, Ignacio; Robles-Villaseñor, Mara Nadiezhda; Hernández-Ávila, Mauricio

2017-01-01

To assess the effect of Education in Nutrition and Food Assistance components of the SaludArte program in participant schools during 2013-2015. A three cohort comparative study was used, with two type of follow-up panel structures: a complete panel and a continuous time, with a total of consisting on 1620 scholar children from 144 schools. Information on food intake, feeding behaviors, food preservation and hygiene, physical activity (PI) and anthropometry was registered. To stablish effect estimates, a difference in difference method combined with propensity score matching was carried out; as an alternative procedure, logistic-multinomial and logistic regression models were also used. Program attributable estimated effects were as follows: an increase in personal hygiene (p=0.045), increase in nutrition knowledges (p=0.003), PI (p=0.002 2013-2014; p=0.032 2015) and increase in fiber Intake (p=0.064). Sugar intake, contrary to the expected showed a significant increase (p=0.012 continuous time and; p=0.037 complete time). SaludArte shows positive effects over some components as expected. However in order to institutionalize the SaludArte program, it is necessary to consider these learned lessons, give it permanence and impulse it in the schools.

Marijuana: a decade and a half later, still a crude drug with underappreciated toxicity.

PubMed

Schwartz, Richard H

2002-02-01

In 1984, I published in this journal a review entitled "Marijuana: A Crude Drug With a Spectrum of Underappreciated Toxicity." In the introduction to that article, I disclosed that our son Keith, who was 15 years old at the time, was in a long-term, modified outpatient adolescent drug and alcohol rehabilitation program because he had become dependent on marijuana with its associated behavioral, interpersonal, scholastic, and antisocial problems. Keith and most of his friends had experimented several times with LSD, beer, and several other drugs but never used injection drugs. Marijuana was clearly Keith's drug of choice and the only drug he used with regularity. Approximately 1 year later, Keith graduated from the treatment program. He completed the early aftercare component, relapsed several times, and completed a 4-month refresher drug rehabilitation program in another state. Nine years after admission to the first rehabilitation program, Keith finally attained some adult goals. Now 34 years old, he has been drug-free for 10 years. He is the president and owner of a successful discount cellular phone business that he started. More important, a decade ago, he reestablished an excellent and close relationship with his parents. As far as I can tell, Keith remains drug-free except for an occasional beer.

Improving capacity for evidence-based practice in South East Asia: evaluating the role of research fellowships in the SEA-ORCHID Project

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background Fellowships are a component of many professional education programs. They provide opportunities to develop skills and competencies in an environment where time is protected and resources and technical support are more readily available. The SEA-ORCHID fellowships program aimed to increase capacity for evidence-based practice and research synthesis, and to encourage fellows to become leaders in these areas. Methods Fellows included doctors, nurses, midwives and librarians working in the maternal and neonatal areas of nine hospitals in South East Asia. Fellowships were undertaken in Australia and involved specific outputs related to evidence-based practice or research synthesis. Training and support was tailored according to the type of output and the fellow's experience and expertise. We evaluated the fellowships program quantitatively and qualitatively through written evaluations, interviews and follow-up of fellowship activities. Results During 2006-07, 23 fellows from Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines undertook short-term fellowships (median four weeks) in Australia. The main outputs were drafts of Cochrane systematic reviews, clinical practice guidelines and protocols for randomised trials, and training materials to support evidence-based practice. Protocols for Cochrane systematic reviews were more likely to be completed than other outcomes. The fellows identified several components that were critical to the program's overall success; these included protected time, tailored training, and access to technical expertise and resources. On returning home, fellows identified a lack of time and limited access to the internet and evidence-based resources as barriers to completing their outputs. The support of colleagues and senior staff was noted as an important enabler of progress, and research collaborators from other institutions and countries were also important sources of support. Conclusions The SEA-ORCHID fellowships program provided protected time to work on an output which would facilitate evidence-based practice. While the fellows faced substantial barriers to completing their fellowship outputs once they returned home, these fellowships resulted in a greater understanding, enthusiasm and skills for evidence-based practice. The experience of the SEA-ORCHID fellowships program may be useful for other initiatives aiming to build capacity in evidence-based practice. PMID:20492706

76 FR 5216 - Florida Power Corporation, Crystal River Unit 3 Nuclear Generating Plant; Exemption

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-01-28

... for Crystal River from 24 to 26 months on a one-time only basis. The proposed exemption does not make... licensed operator requalification program period for Crystal River from 24 to 26 months on a one-time only....59, by allowing Crystal River a one-time extension in the allowed time for completing the current...

Electric power system test and verification program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rylicki, Daniel S.; Robinson, Frank, Jr.

1994-01-01

Space Station Freedom's (SSF's) electric power system (EPS) hardware and software verification is performed at all levels of integration, from components to assembly and system level tests. Careful planning is essential to ensure the EPS is tested properly on the ground prior to launch. The results of the test performed on breadboard model hardware and analyses completed to date have been evaluated and used to plan for design qualification and flight acceptance test phases. These results and plans indicate the verification program for SSF's 75-kW EPS would have been successful and completed in time to support the scheduled first element launch.

Programming and reprogramming sequence timing following high and low contextual interference practice.

PubMed

Wright, David L; Magnuson, Curt E; Black, Charles B

2005-09-01

Individuals practiced two unique discrete sequence production tasks that differed in their relative time profile in either a blocked or random practice schedule. Each participant was subsequently administered a "precuing" protocol to examine the cost of initially compiling or modifying the plan for an upcoming movement's relative timing. The findings indicated that, in general, random practice facilitated the programming of the required movement timing, and this was accomplished while exhibiting greater accuracy in movement production. Participants exposed to random practice exhibited the greatest motor programming benefit, when a modification to an already prepared movement timing profile was required. When movement timing was only partially constructed prior to the imperative signal, the individuals who were trained in blocked and random practice formats accrued a similar cost to complete the programming process. These data provide additional support for the recent claim of Immink & Wright (2001) that at least some of the benefit from experience in a random as opposed to blocked training context can be localized to superior development and implementation of the motor programming process before executing the movement.

Strategies for lowering attrition rates and raising NCLEX-RN pass rates.

PubMed

Higgins, Bonnie

2005-12-01

This study was designed to determine strategies to raise the NCLEX-RN pass rate and lower the attrition rate in a community college nursing program. Ex-post facto data were collected from 213 former nursing student records. Qualitative data were collected from 10 full-time faculty, 30 new graduates, and 45 directors of associate degree nursing programs in Texas. The findings linked the academic variables of two biology courses and three components of the preadmission test to completion of the nursing program. A relationship was found between one biology course, the science component of the preadmission test, the HESI Exit Examination score, and the nursing skills course to passing the NCLEX-RN. Qualitative data indicated preadmission requirements, campus counselors, remediation, faculty, test-item writing, and teaching method were instrumental in completion of the program and passing the NCLEX-RN.

A Normal Incidence X-ray Telescope (NIXT) Sounding Rocket Payload

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Golub, Leon

1996-01-01

During the past year the changeover from the normal incidence X ray telescope (NIXT) program to the new TXI sounding rocket program was completed. The NIXT effort, aimed at evaluating the viability of the remaining portions of the NIXT hardware and design has been finished and the portions of the NIXT which are viable and flightworthy, such as filters, mirror mounting hardware, electronic and telemetry interface systems, are now part of the new rocket payload. The backup NIXT multilayer-coated X ray telescope and its mounting hardware have been completely fabricated and are being stored for possible future use in the TXI rocket. The h-alpha camera design is being utilized in the TXI program for real-time pointing verification and control via telemetry. Two papers, summarizing scientific results from the NIXT rocket program were published this year.

Computer program for single input-output, single-loop feedback systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1976-01-01

Additional work is reported on a completely automatic computer program for the design of single input/output, single loop feedback systems with parameter uncertainly, to satisfy time domain bounds on the system response to step commands and disturbances. The inputs to the program are basically the specified time-domain response bounds, the form of the constrained plant transfer function and the ranges of the uncertain parameters of the plant. The program output consists of the transfer functions of the two free compensation networks, in the form of the coefficients of the numerator and denominator polynomials, and the data on the prescribed bounds and the extremes actually obtained for the system response to commands and disturbances.

The keys to successful online continuing education programs for nurses.

PubMed

Sweeney, Nancy M; Saarmann, Lembi; Flagg, Joan; Seidman, Robert

2008-01-01

Asynchronous online tutorials that award continuing education units without cost and provide knowledge about computers and nursing informatics were made available to registered nurses in Southern California. Four hundred seventy-three nurses enrolled; 52% (246) completed tutorials. Nonsignificant differences in the number of tutorials completed were found across characteristics of participants, meaning that nurses were similarly disposed to participate regardless of age, educational preparation, experience, practice setting, or ethnicity. They tended to overestimate their computer capabilities at the time of enrollment and abandoned the tutorials when they encountered technical problems. Nurses need live workshops teaching computer basics, Internet skills, and how to enroll in and run asynchronous programs. Marketing of online programs should be multifaceted, including live and electronic strategies.

Recruitment and Participation of Older Lesbian and Bisexual Women in Intervention Research.

PubMed

Wood, Susan F; Brooks, Jacquetta; Eliason, Michele J; Garbers, Samantha; McElroy, Jane A; Ingraham, Natalie; Haynes, Suzanne G

2016-07-07

Very little research has addressed issues of recruitment and participation of lesbian and bisexual (LB) women, aged 40 and older, into research studies. This study is based on a larger cross-site intervention study that recruited women from five geographic regions in the United States for culturally specific LB healthy weight programs, lasting 12 or 16 weeks. Principal investigators (PIs) of the five intervention programs completed a questionnaire on recruitment and participation strategies and barriers. Participant data on completion and sociodemographic variables were compiled and analyzed. The recruitment strategies the programs' PIs identified as most useful included word-of-mouth participant referrals, emails to LB participants' social networks, and use of electronic health records (at the two clinic-based programs) to identify eligible participants. Flyers and web postings were considered the least useful. Once in the program, participation and completion rates were fairly high (approximately 90%), although with varying levels of engagement in the different programs. Women who were younger or single were more likely to drop out. Women with disabilities had a lower participation/completion rate (82%) than women without any disability (93%). Dropouts were associated with challenges in scheduling (time of day, location) and changes in health status. Implementation of key strategies can improve both recruitment and participation, but there is a great need for further study of best practices to recruit and promote participation of LB women for health intervention research. Copyright © 2016 Jacobs Institute of Women's Health. All rights reserved.

Time to Completion of Web-Based Physics Problems with Tutoring

PubMed Central

Warnakulasooriya, Rasil; Palazzo, David J; Pritchard, David E

2007-01-01

We studied students performing a complex learning task, that of solving multipart physics problems with interactive tutoring on the web. We extracted the rate of completion and fraction completed as a function of time on task by retrospectively analyzing the log of student–tutor interactions. There was a spontaneous division of students into three groups, the central (and largest) group (about 65% of the students) being those who solved the problem in real time after multiple interactions with the tutorial program (primarily receiving feedback to submitted wrong answers and requesting hints). This group displayed a sigmoidal fraction-completed curve as a function of logarithmic time. The sigmoidal shape is qualitatively flatter for problems that do not include hints and wrong-answer responses. We argue that the group of students who respond quickly (about 10% of the students) is obtaining the answer from some outside source. The third group (about 25% of the students) represents those who interrupt their solution, presumably to work offline or to obtain outside help. PMID:17725054

The Feasibility and Potential Impact of Brain Training Games on Cognitive and Emotional Functioning in Middle-Aged Adults

PubMed Central

Curtis, Ashley F.; Branscombe-Caird, Laura M.; Comrie, Janna K.; Murtha, Susan J.E.

2018-01-01

Abstract Objectives:To investigate whether a commercially available brain training program is feasible to use with a middle-aged population and has a potential impact on cognition and emotional well-being (proof of concept). Method: Fourteen participants (ages 46–55) completed two 6-week training conditions using a crossover (counterbalanced) design: (1) experimental brain training condition and (2) active control “find answers to trivia questions online” condition. A comprehensive neurocognitive battery and a self-report measure of depression and anxiety were administered at baseline (first time point, before training) and after completing each training condition (second time point at 6 weeks, and third time point at 12 weeks). Cognitive composite scores were calculated for participants at each time point. Results: Study completion and protocol adherence demonstrated good feasibility of this brain training protocol in healthy middle-aged adults. Exploratory analyses suggested that brain training was associated with neurocognitive improvements related to executive attention, as well as improvements in mood. Conclusion: Overall, our findings suggest that brain training programs are feasible in middle-aged cohorts. We propose that brain training games may be linked to improvements in executive attention and affect by promoting cognitive self-efficacy in middle-aged adults. PMID:29189046

Startle reveals an absence of advance motor programming in a Go/No-go task.

PubMed

Carlsen, Anthony N; Chua, Romeo; Dakin, Chris J; Sanderson, David J; Inglis, J Timothy; Franks, Ian M

2008-03-21

Presenting a startling stimulus in a simple reaction time (RT) task, can involuntarily trigger the pre-programmed response. However, this effect is not seen when the response is programmed following the imperative stimulus (IS) providing evidence that a startle can only trigger pre-programmed responses. In a "Go/No-go" (GNG) RT task the response may be programmed in advance of the IS because there exists only a single predetermined response. The purpose of the current investigation was to examine if startle could elicit a response in a GNG task. Participants completed a wrist extension task in response to a visual stimulus. A startling acoustic stimulus (124dB) was presented in both Go and No-go trials with Go probability manipulated between groups. The inclusion of a startle did not significantly speed RT and led to more response errors. This result is similar to that observed in a startled choice RT task, indicating that in a GNG task participants waited until the IS complete motor programming.

40 CFR 60.2580 - When must I complete each increment of progress?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE FOR NEW STATIONARY SOURCES Emissions Guidelines and Compliance Times for Commercial and Industrial Solid Waste Incineration Units Model Rule-Increments of...

40 CFR 60.2820 - When must I complete each increment of progress?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE FOR NEW STATIONARY SOURCES Emissions Guidelines and Compliance Times for Commercial and Industrial Solid Waste Incineration Units Model Rule-Air Curtain...

40 CFR 60.2580 - When must I complete each increment of progress?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE FOR NEW STATIONARY SOURCES Emissions Guidelines and Compliance Times for Commercial and Industrial Solid Waste Incineration Units Model Rule-Increments of...

40 CFR 60.2580 - When must I complete each increment of progress?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE FOR NEW STATIONARY SOURCES Emissions Guidelines and Compliance Times for Commercial and Industrial Solid Waste Incineration Units Model Rule-Increments of...

Follow-up Study of Dental Hygiene Graduates, 1971-74. Research Study No. 75-5.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gold, Ben K.

Forty-seven (51.1 percent) of the 92 graduates of the Dental Hygiene program completed a questionnaire designed to provide feed-back information concerning activities of program graduates. Results indicated that: (1) Practically all graduates were employed as Dental Hygienists, with most sharing their time among two or more offices; (2) Daily…

45 CFR 2526.30 - How do convictions for the possession or sale of controlled substances affect an education award...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... trafficking of controlled substances; (F) Length of time between offenses; (G) Employment history; (H) Service... this section has successfully completed a legitimate drug rehabilitation program, or in the case of a first conviction that the individual has enrolled in a legitimate drug rehabilitation program, the...

Evaluation of a Bereavement Training Program for Staff in an Intellectual Disabilities Service

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Reynolds, Sile; Guerin, Suzanne; McEvoy, John; Dodd, Philip

2008-01-01

The impact of a staff-training program on knowledge and confidence in supporting people with intellectual disabilities (ID) at the time of bereavement was examined. Thirty-three staff members from a Dublin, Ireland-based ID support service participated in the study. Both the training (n = 17) and control (n = 16) groups completed measures of…

45 CFR 2526.30 - How do convictions for the possession or sale of controlled substances affect an education award...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... trafficking of controlled substances; (F) Length of time between offenses; (G) Employment history; (H) Service... this section has successfully completed a legitimate drug rehabilitation program, or in the case of a first conviction that the individual has enrolled in a legitimate drug rehabilitation program, the...

45 CFR 2526.30 - How do convictions for the possession or sale of controlled substances affect an education award...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... trafficking of controlled substances; (F) Length of time between offenses; (G) Employment history; (H) Service... this section has successfully completed a legitimate drug rehabilitation program, or in the case of a first conviction that the individual has enrolled in a legitimate drug rehabilitation program, the...

38 CFR 21.8070 - Basic duration of a vocational training program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... vocational rehabilitation, the CP or VRC will estimate the time the child needs to complete a vocational... training period the eligible child needs, the CP or VRC must determine that: (1) The proposed vocational.... In calculating the proposed program's length, the CP or VRC will follow the procedures in § 21.8074(a...

What Can Schools, Colleges, and Youth Programs Do with Predictive Analytics? Practitioner Brief

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Balu, Rekha; Porter, Kristin

2017-01-01

Many low-income young people are not reaching important milestones for success (for example, completing a program or graduating from school on time). But the social-service organizations and schools that serve them often struggle to identify who is at more or less risk. These institutions often either over- or underestimate risk, missing…

Advanced Placement versus Dual Enrollment: Making the Best Choice for College Selection, Persistence, Early Success, and Time to Completion

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gruman, Daniel H.

2013-01-01

A substantial amount of research examines the benefits of high school college-credit attainment programs against non-participation. The growth in popularity of these programs, particularly Advanced Placement (AP) and dual enrollment (DE), has them competing against one another for student attention. However, students, schools, and policymakers do…

Basic Botany On-Line: A Training Tool for the Master Gardener Program.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

VanDerZanden, Ann Marie; Rost, Bob; Eckel, Rick

2002-01-01

A noncredit, online training module on botany was offered to participants in the Oregon Master Gardener program. The 48 participants felt the module was a useful training tool. They also noted that the convenience of completing the material at their own pace and during a time that fit into their schedule. (SK)

Gender Homophily, Ph.D. Completion, and Time to Degree in the Humanities and Humanistic Social Sciences

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Main, Joyce B.

2014-01-01

Doctoral programs in the humanities and humanistic social sciences contend with relatively lower graduation rates and longer duration to degree. While reforming graduate education can include changes to financial aid awards and program requirements, enhancements in the area of advising can also improve student educational experiences and outcomes…

Negative Impact of Employment on Engineering Student Time Management, Time to Degree, and Retention: Faculty, Administrator, and Staff Perspectives

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tyson, Will

2012-01-01

Interviews with faculty, administrators, staff, and students at four engineering programs reveal the role of undergraduate student employment on retention and timely degree completion among engineering students. Dueling narratives reveal how student approaches to earning an engineering degree differ greatly from faculty, administrator, and staff…

Innovation in PhD Completion: The Hardy Shall Succeed (And Be Happy!)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kearns, Hugh; Gardiner, Maria; Marshall, Kelly

2008-01-01

What is it that makes a PhD such a difficult process, and prevents candidates from completing on time? In this paper, we propose that self-sabotaging behaviours, including overcommitting, procrastination and perfectionism, have a role to play. At Flinders University, we have developed a program in which we work with PhD students to help to reduce…

Postdoctoral pharmacy industry fellowships: a descriptive analysis of programs and postgraduate positions.

PubMed

Melillo, Stephanie; Gangadharan, Amy; Johnson, Hiliary; Schleck, Patrick; Steinberg, Michael; Alexander, James G

2012-01-01

Postdoctoral pharmacy industry fellowship programs and the employment of fellowship graduates are described. A list of postgraduate industry fellowships was gathered from the 2009 ASHP Midyear Clinical Meeting. Data regarding program characteristics were collected using the Personnel Placement Service database and program-specific brochures. After data compilation, a standardized survey was sent in January 2010 via e-mail to the point of contact for all programs to confirm the accuracy of the program's characteristics. Only academically affiliated industry fellowship programs were analyzed. Retrospective data were collected regarding the first position of employment for all fellows who graduated from the program between 2005 and 2009 and the position of those same individuals at the time of survey completion. Surveys were sent to 64 postgraduate industry fellowship programs affiliated with a school of pharmacy, 56 (87.5%) of whom responded. The departmental breakdown for positions offered (n = 75) across all academically affiliated industry fellowship programs (including nonresponders) was as follows: medical affairs (38.7%, n = 29), clinical research (32.0%, n = 24), regulatory affairs (9.3%, n = 7), commercial (8.0%, n = 6), health economics and outcomes research (8.0%, n = 6), and pharmacovigilance (4.0%, n = 3). Data from fellows during years 1-5 after completion of the industry fellowship indicated that 90.5% of former fellows remained in the industry (n = 238). The postgraduate industry fellowship programs surveyed indicated that the majority of fellowship graduates continued to hold positions in industry after program completion. The majority of industry fellowships and subsequent job placements occurred in the areas of medical affairs, clinical research, and regulatory affairs.

Routine programs of health care systems as an opportunity toward communication skills training for family physicians: A randomized field trial

PubMed Central

Zamani, Ahmad Reza; Motamedi, Narges; Farajzadegan, Ziba

2015-01-01

Background: To have high-quality primary health care services, an adequate doctor–patient communication is necessary. Because of time restrictions and limited budget in health system, an effective, feasible, and continuous training approach is important. The aim of this study is to assess the appropriateness of a communication skills training program simultaneously with routine programs of health care system. Materials and Methods: It was a randomized field trial in two health network settings during 2013. Twenty-eight family physicians through simple random sampling and 140 patients through convenience sampling participated as intervention and control group. The physicians in the intervention group (n = 14) attended six educational sessions, simultaneous organization meeting, with case discussion and peer education method. In both the groups, physicians completed communication skills knowledge and attitude questionnaires, and patients completed patient satisfaction of medical interview questionnaire at baseline, immediately after intervention, and four months postintervention. Physicians and health network administrators (stakeholders), completed a set of program evaluation forms. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square test, t-test, and repeated measure analysis of variance were used to analyze the data. Results: Use of routine program as a strategy of training was rated by stakeholders highly on “feasibility” (80.5%), “acceptability” (93.5%), “educational content and method appropriateness” (80.75%), and “ability to integrating in the health system programs” (approximate 60%). Significant improvements were found in physicians’ knowledge (P < 0.001), attitude (P < 0.001), and patients’ satisfaction (P = 0.002) in intervention group. Conclusions: Communication skills training program, simultaneous organization meeting was successfully implemented and well received by stakeholders, without considering extra time and manpower. Therefore it can be a valuable opportunity toward communication skills training. PMID:27462613

Implementation and evaluation of a low health literacy and culturally sensitive diabetes education program.

PubMed

Swavely, Deborah; Vorderstrasse, Allison; Maldonado, Edgardo; Eid, Sherrine; Etchason, Jeff

2014-01-01

Low health literacy is more prevalent in persons with limited education, members of ethnic minorities, and those who speak English as a second language, and is associated with multiple adverse diabetes-related health outcomes. This study examined the effectiveness of a low health literacy and culturally sensitive diabetes education program for economically and socially disadvantaged adult patients with type 2 diabetes. A pre-post prospective study design was used to examine outcomes over 12 months. Outcome measures included diabetes knowledge, self-efficacy, and self-care, measured using reliable and valid survey tools, and A1C. Over this period of time 277 patients were enrolled in the program, with 106 participants completing survey data. At the completion of the program patients had significant improvements in diabetes knowledge (p < .001), self-efficacy (p < .001), and three domains of self-care including diet (p < .001), foot care (p < .001), and exercise (p < .001). There were no significant improvements in the frequency of blood glucose testing (p = .345). Additionally, A1C values significantly improved 3 months after completing the program (p = .007). In conclusion, a diabetes education program designed to be culturally sensitive and meet the needs of individuals with low health literacy improves short-term outcomes. © 2013 National Association for Healthcare Quality.

Digital-computer program for design analysis of salient, wound pole alternators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Repas, D. S.

1973-01-01

A digital computer program for analyzing the electromagnetic design of salient, wound pole alternators is presented. The program, which is written in FORTRAN 4, calculates the open-circuit saturation curve, the field-current requirements at rated voltage for various loads and losses, efficiency, reactances, time constants, and weights. The methods used to calculate some of these items are presented or appropriate references are cited. Instructions for using the program and typical program input and output for an alternator design are given, and an alphabetical list of most FORTRAN symbols and the complete program listing with flow charts are included.

TENEX SAIL

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, R.

1975-01-01

SAIL, a high level ALGOL language for the PDP-10, is extended to operate under the TENEX time sharing system without executing DEC system calls. A large set of TENEX oriented runtime routines are added to allow complete access to TENEX. The emphasis is on compatibility of programs across time sharing systems and integrity of the language.

36 CFR 72.33 - Timing and duration of projects.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

..., Rehabilitation and Innovation § 72.33 Timing and duration of projects. (a) Construction components of projects... completing construction components of either Rehabilitation or Innovation proposals will be limited to three... Program, and of benefit to the federal government. Any component of an Innovation proposal which is to...

36 CFR 72.33 - Timing and duration of projects.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

..., Rehabilitation and Innovation § 72.33 Timing and duration of projects. (a) Construction components of projects... completing construction components of either Rehabilitation or Innovation proposals will be limited to three... Program, and of benefit to the federal government. Any component of an Innovation proposal which is to...

36 CFR 72.33 - Timing and duration of projects.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

..., Rehabilitation and Innovation § 72.33 Timing and duration of projects. (a) Construction components of projects... completing construction components of either Rehabilitation or Innovation proposals will be limited to three... Program, and of benefit to the federal government. Any component of an Innovation proposal which is to...

36 CFR 72.33 - Timing and duration of projects.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

..., Rehabilitation and Innovation § 72.33 Timing and duration of projects. (a) Construction components of projects... completing construction components of either Rehabilitation or Innovation proposals will be limited to three... Program, and of benefit to the federal government. Any component of an Innovation proposal which is to...

36 CFR 72.33 - Timing and duration of projects.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

..., Rehabilitation and Innovation § 72.33 Timing and duration of projects. (a) Construction components of projects... completing construction components of either Rehabilitation or Innovation proposals will be limited to three... Program, and of benefit to the federal government. Any component of an Innovation proposal which is to...

47 CFR 73.781 - Logs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... time each station identification announcement (call letters and location) is made. (2) An entry briefly describing each program broadcast, such as “music”, “drama”, “speech”, etc., together with the name or title thereof, language, and the sponsor's name, with the time of the beginning and ending of the complete...

Medical Tests for Prostate Problems

MedlinePlus

... the inability to empty the bladder completely urinary frequency—urination eight or more times a day urinary ... For Health Professionals Diabetes Discoveries & Practice Blog Health Communication Programs FAQs About NIDDK Meet the Director Offices & ...

40 CFR 60.2640 - When must the operator training course be completed?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... (CONTINUED) AIR PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE FOR NEW STATIONARY SOURCES Emissions Guidelines and Compliance Times for Commercial and Industrial Solid Waste Incineration Units Model Rule-Operator...

40 CFR 60.2640 - When must the operator training course be completed?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... (CONTINUED) AIR PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE FOR NEW STATIONARY SOURCES Emissions Guidelines and Compliance Times for Commercial and Industrial Solid Waste Incineration Units Model Rule-Operator...

Navigating Return to Work and Breastfeeding in a Hospital with a Comprehensive Employee Lactation Program.

PubMed

Froh, Elizabeth B; Spatz, Diane L

2016-11-01

The Surgeon General's Call to Action to Support Breastfeeding details the need for comprehensive employer lactation support programs. Our institution has an extensive employee lactation program, and our breastfeeding initiation and continuation rates are statistically significantly higher than state and national data, with more than 20% of our employees breastfeeding for more than 1 year. The objective of this research was complete secondary data analysis of qualitative data collected as part of a larger study on breastfeeding outcomes. In the larger study, 545 women who returned to work full or part time completed an online survey with the ability to provide free text qualitative data and feedback regarding their experiences with breastfeeding after return to work. Qualitative data were pulled from the online survey platform. The responses to these questions were analyzed using conventional content analysis by the research team (2 PhD-prepared nurse researchers trained and experienced in qualitative methodologies and 1 research assistant) in order to complete a thematic analysis of the survey data. Analysis of the data yielded 5 major themes: (1) positive reflections, (2) nonsupportive environment/work culture, (3) supportive environment/work culture, (4) accessibility of resources, and (5) internal barriers. The themes that emerged from this research clearly indicate that even in a hospital with an extensive employee lactation program, women have varied experiences-some more positive than others. Returning to work while breastfeeding requires time and commitment of the mother, and a supportive employee lactation program may ease that transition of return to work.

Is a career in medicine the right choice? The impact of a physician shadowing program on undergraduate premedical students.

PubMed

Wang, Jennifer Y; Lin, Hillary; Lewis, Patricia Y; Fetterman, David M; Gesundheit, Neil

2015-05-01

Undergraduate (i.e., baccalaureate) premedical students have limited exposure to clinical practice before applying to medical school-a shortcoming, given the personal and financial resources required to complete medical training. The Stanford Immersion in Medicine Series (SIMS) is a program that streamlines the completion of regulatory requirements for premedical students and allows them to develop one-on-one mentor-mentee relationships with practicing physicians. The program, offered quarterly since 2007, is an elective available for Stanford University sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Participants apply to the program and, if accepted, receive patient rights and professionalism training. Students shadow the physician they are paired with at least four times and submit a reflective essay about their experience.SIMS program coordinators administered surveys before and after shadowing to assess changes in students' perceptions and understanding of medical careers. The authors observed, in the 61 Stanford premedical students who participated in SIMS between March and June 2010 and completed both pre- and postprogram questionnaires, significant increases in familiarity with physician responsibilities and in understanding physician-patient interactions. The authors detected no significant changes in student commitment to pursuing medicine. Student perceptions of the value of shadowing-high both pre- and post shadowing-did not change. Physician shadowing by premedical baccalaureate students appears to promote an understanding of physician roles and workplace challenges. Future studies should identify the ideal timing, format, and duration of shadowing to optimize the experience and allow students to make informed decisions about whether to pursue a medical career.

The Cost and Burden of the Residency Match in Emergency Medicine

PubMed Central

Blackshaw, Aaron M.; Watson, Simon C.; Bush, Jeffrey S.

2017-01-01

Introduction To obtain a residency match, medical students entering emergency medicine (EM) must complete away rotations, submit a number of lengthy applications, and travel to multiple programs to interview. The expenses incurred acquiring this residency position are burdensome, but there is little specialty-specific data estimating it. We sought to quantify the actual cost spent by medical students applying to EM residency programs by surveying students as they attended a residency interview. Methods Researchers created a 16-item survey, which asked about the time and monetary costs associated with the entire EM residency application process. Applicants chosen to interview for an EM residency position at our institution were invited to complete the survey during their interview day. Results In total, 66 out of a possible 81 residency applicants (an 81% response rate) completed our survey. The “average applicant” who interviewed at our residency program for the 2015–16 cycle completed 1.6 away, or “audition,” rotations, each costing an average of $1,065 to complete. This “average applicant” applied to 42.8 programs, and then attended 13.7 interviews. The cost of interviewing at our program averaged $342 and in total, an average of $8,312 would be spent in the pursuit of an EM residency. Conclusion Due to multiple factors, the costs of securing an EM residency spot can be expensive. By understanding the components that are driving this trend, we hope that the academic EM community can explore avenues to help curtail these costs. PMID:28116032

The Effect of a Complex Training Program on Skating Abilities in Ice Hockey Players

PubMed Central

Lee, Changyoung; Lee, Sookyung; Yoo, Jaehyun

2014-01-01

[Purpose] Little data exist on systemic training programs to improve skating abilities in ice hockey players. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a complex training program on skating abilities in ice hockey players. [Methods] Ten male ice hockey players (training group) that engaged in 12 weeks of complex training and skating training and ten male players (control group) that only participated in 12 weeks of skating training completed on-ice skating tests including a 5 time 18 meters shuttle, t-test, Rink dash 5 times, and line drill before, during, and the training. [Results] Significant group-by-time interactions were found in all skating ability tests. [Conclusion] The complex training program intervention for 12 weeks improved their skating abilities of the ice hockey players. PMID:24764628

Flying Cassini with Virtual Operations Teams

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dodd, Suzanne; Gustavson, Robert

1998-01-01

The Cassini Program's challenge is to fly a large, complex mission with a reduced operations budget. A consequence of the reduced budget is elimination of the large, centrally located group traditionally used for uplink operations. Instead, responsibility for completing parts of the uplink function is distributed throughout the Program. A critical strategy employed to handle this challenge is the use of Virtual Uplink Operations Teams. A Virtual Team is comprised of a group of people with the necessary mix of engineering and science expertise who come together for the purpose of building a specific uplink product. These people are drawn from throughout the Cassini Program and participate across a large geographical area (from Germany to the West coast of the USA), covering ten time zones. The participants will often split their time between participating in the Virtual Team and accomplishing their core responsibilities, requiring significant planning and time management. When the particular uplink product task is complete, the Virtual Team disbands and the members turn back to their home organization element for future work assignments. This time-sharing of employees is used on Cassini to build mission planning products, via the Mission Planning Virtual Team, and sequencing products and monitoring of the sequence execution, via the Sequence Virtual Team. This challenging, multitasking approach allows efficient use of personnel in a resource constrained environment.

Technical report: an ePRO patient reported outcome program for the evaluation of patients with irritable bowel syndrome.

PubMed

Gerson, C D; Gerson, M-J

2014-02-01

Patient reported outcome (PRO) is an important healthcare concept that describes patient's participation in their care by self-evaluation, usually in the form of questionnaires. This report describes an unique computerized technique, electronic PRO (ePRO), for following the progress of patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Patients first completed a series of questionnaires, including questions about their illness history, symptom severity, and, in this application, psychological and relationship issues. The symptom severity and psychological questionnaires were then completed at intervals by the patients on their own computers. The ePRO was constructed to allow scores to be automatically summed and placed on a time-line graph for review at the time of the next office visit. Of the 32 patients who completed the initial set of questionnaires, 20 maintained participation in the program for a 6-month period. Of those 20 patients, median number of submissions was 7.0; median interval between questionnaire submissions was 3.0 weeks, whereas median interval between office visits was 5.9 weeks. On average, questionnaire completion took less than 5 min and was positively experienced by the patients. The ePRO program proved to be technically feasible, clinically useful, and positively experienced by the patients. It provides a focus on a collaborative conversation between physician and patient. It has significant potential as a technique for evaluating outcome in response to various therapies. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Preparing new Earth Science teachers via a collaborative program between Research Scientists and Educators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grcevich, Jana; Pagnotta, Ashley; Mac Low, Mordecai-Mark; Shara, Michael; Flores, Kennet; Nadeau, Patricia A.; Sessa, Jocelyn; Ustunisik, Gokce; Zirakparvar, Nasser; Ebel, Denton; Harlow, George; Webster, James D.; Kinzler, Rosamond; MacDonald, Maritza B.; Contino, Julie; Cooke-Nieves, Natasha; Howes, Elaine; Zachowski, Marion

2015-01-01

The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) Program at the American Museum of Natural History is a innovative program designed to prepare participants to be world-class Earth Science teachers. New York State is experiencing a lack of qualified Earth Science teachers, leading in the short term to a reduction in students who successfully complete the Earth Science Regents examination, and in the long term potential reductions in the number of students who go on to pursue college degrees in Earth Science related disciplines. The MAT program addresses this problem via a collaboration between practicing research scientists and education faculty. The faculty consists of curators and postdoctoral researchers from the Departments of Astrophysics, Earth and Planetary Sciences, and the Division of Paleontology, as well as doctoral-level education experts. During the 15-month, full-time program, students participate in a residency program at local urban classrooms as well as taking courses and completing field work in astrophysics, geology, earth science, and paleontology. The program targets high-needs schools with diverse populations. We seek to encourage, stimulate interest, and inform the students impacted by our program, most of whom are from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds, about the rich possibilities for careers in Earth Science related disciplines and the intrinsic value of the subject. We report on the experience of the first and second cohorts, all of whom are now employed in full time teaching positions, and the majority in high needs schools in New York State.

Results of the first interim analysis of the RAPPER II trial in patients with spinal cord injury: ambulation and functional exercise programs in the REX powered walking aid.

PubMed

Birch, Nick; Graham, Jon; Priestley, Tom; Heywood, Chris; Sakel, Mohamed; Gall, Angela; Nunn, Andrew; Signal, Nada

2017-06-19

The RAPPER II study investigates the feasibility, safety and acceptability of using the REX self-stabilising robotic exoskeleton in people with spinal cord injury (SCI) who are obligatory wheelchair users. Feasibility is assessed by the completion of transfer into the REX device, competency in achieving autonomous control and completion of upper body exercise in an upright position in the REX device. Safety is measured by the occurrence of serious adverse events. Device acceptability is assessed with a user questionnaire. RAPPER II is a prospective, multi-centre, open label, non-randomised, non-comparative cohort study in people with SCI recruited from neurological rehabilitation centres in the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand. This is the planned interim report of the first 20 participants. Each completed a transfer into the REX, were trained to achieve machine control and completed Timed Up and Go (TUG) tests as well as upper body exercises in standing in a single first time session. The time to achieve each task as well as the amount of assistance required was recorded. After finishing the trial tasks a User Experience questionnaire, exploring device acceptability, was completed. All participants could transfer into the REX. The mean transfer time was 439 s. Nineteen completed the exercise regime. Eighteen could achieve autonomous control of the REX, 17 of whom needed either no assistance or the help of just one therapist. Eighteen participants completed at least one TUG test in a mean time of 313 s, 15 with the assistance of just one therapist. The questionnaire demonstrated high levels of acceptability amongst users. There were no Serious Adverse Events. This first interim analysis of RAPPER II shows that it is feasible and safe for people with SCI to use the REX powered assisted walking device to ambulate and exercise in. Participants with tetraplegia and paraplegia could walk and perform a functional exercise program when standing needing only modest levels of assistance in most cases. User acceptability was high. ClinicalTrials.gov , NCT02417532 . Registered 11 April 2015.

42 CFR 456.245 - Number of studies required to be performed.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS UTILIZATION CONTROL Utilization Control: Mental Hospitals... mental hospital must, at least, have one study in progress at any time and complete one study each...

42 CFR 456.245 - Number of studies required to be performed.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS UTILIZATION CONTROL Utilization Control: Mental Hospitals... mental hospital must, at least, have one study in progress at any time and complete one study each...

42 CFR 456.145 - Number of studies required to be performed.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS UTILIZATION CONTROL Utilization Control: Hospitals Ur Plan..., at least, have one study in progress at any time and complete one study each calendar year. ...

42 CFR 456.145 - Number of studies required to be performed.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS UTILIZATION CONTROL Utilization Control: Hospitals Ur Plan..., at least, have one study in progress at any time and complete one study each calendar year. ...

40 CFR 60.5090 - When must I complete each increment of progress?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE FOR NEW STATIONARY SOURCES Emission Guidelines and Compliance Times for Existing Sewage Sludge Incineration Units Model Rule-Increments of Progress § 60.5090 When...

40 CFR 60.1590 - When must I complete each increment of progress?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE FOR NEW STATIONARY SOURCES Emission Guidelines and Compliance Times for Small Municipal Waste Combustion Units Constructed on or Before August 30, 1999 Model Rule...

Early Identification of Student Performance and Effort Using an Online Homework System: A Pilot Study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perdian, David C.

2013-10-01

Two distinct student groups, in terms of academic performance, were identified early in the semester as either being under-performing students or over-performing students using an online homework system. The students who are identified as under-performing received, on average, lower grades than their fellow students but spent more time completing the homework assignments. These students are great candidates for targeted advertisement of student resources such as tutoring services. The students who are identified in the over-performing student population received higher grades than their fellow students, but spent less time completing the homework assignments. These students are great candidates for honors programs, independent research projects, and peer-tutoring programs. Incorporating these evaluation criteria to online homework systems will allow instructors to quickly identify students in these academic student populations.

[A cost-benefit analysis of a Mexican food-support program].

PubMed

Ventura-Alfaro, Carmelita E; Gutiérrez-Reyes, Juan P; Bertozzi-Kenefick, Stefano M; Caldés-Gómez, Natalia

2011-06-01

Objective Presenting an estimate of a Mexican food-support program (FSP) program's cost transfer ratio (CTR) from start-up (2003) to May 2005. Methods The program's activities were listed by constructing a time allocation matrix to ascertain how much time was spent on each of the program's activities by the personnel so involved. Another cost matrix was also constructed which was completed with information from the program's accountancy records. The program's total cost, activity cost and the value of given FSP transfers were thus estimated. Results Food delivery CRT for 2003, 2004 and 2005 was 0.150, 0.218, 0.230, respectively; cash CTR was 0.132in 2004 and 0.105 in 2005. Conclusion Comparing CTR values according to transfer type is a good way to promote discussion related to this topic; however, the decision for making a transfer does not depend exclusively on efficiency but on both mechanisms' effectiveness.

Ames Fitness Program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pratt, Randy

1993-01-01

The Ames Fitness Program services 5,000 civil servants and contractors working at Ames Research Center. A 3,000 square foot fitness center, equipped with cardiovascular machines, weight training machines, and free weight equipment is on site. Thirty exercise classes are held each week at the Center. A weight loss program is offered, including individual exercise prescriptions, fitness testing, and organized monthly runs. The Fitness Center is staffed by one full-time program coordinator and 15 hours per week of part-time help. Membership is available to all employees at Ames at no charge, and there are no fees for participation in any of the program activities. Prior to using the Center, employees must obtain a physical examination and complete a membership package. Funding for the Ames Fitness Program was in jeopardy in December 1992; however, the employees circulated a petition in support of the program and collected more than 1500 signatures in only three days. Funding has been approved through October 1993.

Training Substance Use Disorder Counselors in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression: Development and Initial Exploration of an Online Training Program.

PubMed

Curran, Geoffrey M; Woo, Stephanie M; Hepner, Kimberly A; Lai, Wen Pin; Kramer, Teresa L; Drummond, Karen L; Weingardt, Ken

2015-11-01

Evidence based psychotherapies (EBPs) remain underutilized. Models for EBP training and implementation that are cost-effective, minimally disruptive, and sufficiently flexible are needed. Internet-based technology is a promising platform, but questions remain about how this technology can address the barriers to implementation. We developed and examined the implementation of an online training for the Building Recovery by Improving Goals, Habits, and Thoughts (BRIGHT) intervention-a manualized, sixteen-session group depression treatment for individuals with substance use disorders (SUDs). We explored the feasibility of replacing in-person BRIGHT training with a self-paced, online training. A highly partnered and iterative process was followed to translate the written BRIGHT manual and associated didactic training materials into a media rich, interactive, and detailed (12-16 h) online training. Subsequently, 8 volunteer counselors across 7 Veterans' Affairs SUD programs completed the training. Semi-structured interviews focused on the counselors' experiences and their plans for implementing BRIGHT groups. A template approach, using a mixture of deductive and inductive coding, was used for data analyses. The most important barrier to completing training was a lack of protected time. Most counselors were not afforded protected time and reported a sometimes frustrating and fragmented training experience. Many used personal time at work and at home to complete the work. Facilitators to completing the training included positive reactions/attitudes towards the training modules, supervisor support, counselor dedication, and strong beliefs supporting providing services for depression. Many counselors were also concerned about the feasibility of fitting 16 group sessions (2h each) into their program's clinical schedule, but many had devised potential solutions or "work-arounds" to accommodate or approximate the recommended treatment course (e.g., using lunch times, reducing some content/exercises). This work contributes to the literature on implementation of complex EBPs and addresses the strengths and limitations of web-based technologies in supporting the implementation of EBPs. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Analysis of 10-Year Training Results of Medical Students Using the Microvascular Research Center Training Program.

PubMed

Onoda, Satoshi; Kimata, Yoshihiro; Sugiyama, Narushi; Tokuyama, Eijiro; Matsumoto, Kumiko; Ota, Tomoyuki; Thuzar, Moe

2016-06-01

Background In this article, we reviewed the training results of medical students using the Microvascular Research Center Training Program (MRCP), and proposed an ideal microsurgical training program for all individuals by analyzing the training results of medical students who did not have any surgical experience. Methods As of 2015, a total of 29 medical students completed the MRCP. In the most recent 12 medical students, the number of trials performed for each training stage and the number of rats needed to complete the training were recorded. Additionally, we measured the operating time upon finishing stage 5 for the recent six medical students after it became a current program. Results The average operating time upon finishing stage 5 for the recent six medical students was 120 minutes ± 11 minutes (standard deviation [SD]). The average vascular anastomosis time (for the artery and vein) was 52 minutes ± 2 minutes (SD). For the most recent 12 medical students, there was a negative correlation between the number of trials performed in the non-rat stages (stages 1-3) and the number of rats used in the rat stages (stages 4-5). Conclusion Analysis of the training results of medical students suggests that performing microsurgery first on silicon tubes and chicken wings saves animals' lives later during the training program. We believe that any person can learn the technique of microsurgery by performing 7 to 8 hours of training per day over a period of 15 days within this program setting. Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Changing safety net of last resort: downsizing general assistance for employable adults.

PubMed

Anderson, Steven G; Halter, Anthony P; Gryzlak, Brian M

2002-07-01

General assistance (GA) has served as an income support program of last resort for people not eligible for other programs. Because each state has complete discretion to design its program, the GA services model parallels Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) in its reliance on decentralized government decision making. Thus, GA programs can provide lessons about services variability and common program features that have arisen in a decentralized income support system. This study examined the characteristics of state GA programs across several program dimensions--eligibility criteria, work requirements, time limits, administrative arrangements, and caseloads. The authors show that GA programs have changed from 1989 to 1998. Although most states retained GA programs in some form, caseloads declined as a result of tightening eligibility requirements for people considered employable. This casts doubt on the viability of GA as a safety net program for economically vulnerable people, including those who do not qualify for or exceed time limits under TANF.

Medical School Outcomes, Primary Care Specialty Choice, and Practice in Medically Underserved Areas by Physician Alumni of MEDPREP, a Postbaccalaureate Premedical Program for Underrepresented and Disadvantaged Students.

PubMed

Metz, Anneke M

2017-01-01

Minorities continue to be underrepresented as physicians in medicine, and the United States currently has a number of medically underserved communities. MEDPREP, a postbaccalaureate medical school preparatory program for socioeconomically disadvantaged or underrepresented in medicine students, has a stated mission to increase the numbers of physicians from minority or disadvantaged backgrounds and physicians working with underserved populations. This study aims to determine how MEDPREP enhances U.S. physician diversity and practice within underserved communities. MEDPREP recruits disadvantaged and underrepresented in medicine students to complete a 2-year academic enhancement program that includes science coursework, standardized test preparation, study/time management training, and emphasis on professional development. Five hundred twenty-five disadvantaged or underrepresented students over 15 years completed MEDPREP and were tracked through entry into medical practice. MEDPREP accepts up to 36 students per year, with two thirds coming from the Midwest region and another 20% from nearby states in the South. Students complete science, test preparation, academic enhancement, and professionalism coursework taught predominantly by MEDPREP faculty on the Southern Illinois University Carbondale campus. Students apply broadly to medical schools in the region and nation but are also offered direct entry into our School of Medicine upon meeting articulation program requirements. Seventy-nine percent of students completing MEDPREP became practicing physicians. Fifty-eight percent attended public medical schools, and 62% attended medical schools in the Midwest. Fifty-three percent of program alumni chose primary care specialties compared to 34% of U.S. physicians, and MEDPREP alumni were 2.7 times more likely to work in medically underserved areas than physicians nationally. MEDPREP increases the number of disadvantaged and underrepresented students entering and graduating from medical school, choosing primary care specialties, and working in medically underserved areas. MEDPREP may therefore serve as a model for increasing physician diversity and addressing the needs of medically underserved communities.

5 CFR 843.410 - Annuity for a child age 18 to 22 during full-time school attendance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... accepted as minimum for completion, by a full-time day student, of the academic or training program... student, and whose parent dies after the child's 22nd birthday but before the date the annuity terminates... to receive an annuity as a full-time student, the child must also meet all other requirements...

Wisconsin Radio and Television Agricultural Market News Programming. Wisconsin Agricultural Extension Service Research Report No. R2615, April 1974.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kroupa, Eugene A.; Walker, Douglas K.

The study determined what Wisconsin's 102 AM, 107 FM, and 21 television stations were providing as agricultural market information programming and documented the amount, timing, frequency, and completeness of broadcast agricultural market news reports. Data were collected on the sources of market price information, types of commodity and price…

Fellowship Effects in Graduate Education: Evaluating the Impact of the National Science Foundation's Graduate Research Fellowship Program. ASHE Annual Meeting Paper.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Goldsmith, Sharon S.; Presley, Jennifer B.

This report results from an evaluation of the National Research Foundation's Graduate Research Fellowship program. The study sought to determine: (1) whether NSF fellows show evidence of more timely degree completion and early career success; (2) whether graduate fellows and minority graduate fellows experience similar education and career…

Report of the Task Force to Explore Feasibility of a Three-Year Baccalaureate Program. Established March 1, 1972.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Florida State Dept. of Education, Tallahassee.

Presented in this document are the results of a Task Force study in Florida that explored the feasibility of a baccalaureate degree program that can be completed in 3 academic years. The Task Force addressed itself to the issues surrounding time-shortened degrees: acceleration; locksteps; relevancy of educational objectives to individual and…

Affective Influences on the Reading-Language Arts Development of Native American Students.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gold, David A. S.

To this time, language arts-reading programs established by the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) totally immerse the young Indian student in a complete English environment. The real problem is not so much the type of program used, but the feelings of the teachers working with the students. Until very recently, few of the teachers in BIA schools were…

Promoting Adolescent Health and Well-Being through Outdoor Youth Programs: Results from a Multisite Australian Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rose, Lauren; Williams, Ian R.; Olsson, Craig A.; Allen, Nicholas B.

2018-01-01

The purpose of this study was to examine the extent to which participation in structured outdoor programs is associated with improvements in adolescent health and well-being. Students (n = 160) were recruited from three secondary schools in Victoria, Australia. Adolescents completed online surveys 3 weeks before camp (Time 1), 1 week before camp…

Factors Associated with Participation in Work-Site Wellness Programs: Implications for Increasing Willingness among Rural Service Employees

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Middlestadt, Susan E.; Sheats, Jylana L.; Geshnizjani, Alireza; Sullivan, Margaret R.; Arvin, Christopher S.

2011-01-01

The purpose of this study was to identify factors underlying decisions to participate in work-site wellness programs. A sample of 279 full-time workers from a service division of a rural Midwestern university completed a survey assessing demographic and job characteristics, health status and health behaviors, and Reasoned Action Approach (RAA)…

An Investigation of NCLEX-PN Performance and Student Perceptions among Practical Nursing Graduates

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Abston-Coleman, Sharon L.; Levy, Dessie R.

2010-01-01

Students in practical nursing programs require 32 weeks of coursework (1 academic year) and completion of a national licensing exam (NCLEX-PN) to secure employment. The purpose of this study was to identify selected academic variables that were related to NCLEX-PN performance for first-time test takers of two types of practical nursing programs at…

NOSC (Naval Ocean Systems Center) Program Manager’s Handbook.

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-07-01

impact downstream on other obligations-can wreck the best program through loss of performance, credibility, sponsorship, and future opportunity...planning sessions should be alert to external constraints that may impact on the timely completion of the project. Networking, through planning sessions...schedule, will have significant impact on the project. One of the most important functions of project management

An Analysis of the Relationship between Distance from Campus and GPA of Commuter Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nelson, Danielle; Misra, Kaustav; Sype, Gail E.; Mackie, Wayne

2016-01-01

A variety of factors influence a student's ability to succeed in college and complete a degree program. Students who live on-campus, at least during their freshman year, have been shown to be more likely to complete their degrees than are students who live off-campus. Students who are commuters may have more demands on their time and may have…

JPRS Report, Arms Control.

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-07-19

fuels for missiles and banning of existing fuels which contaminate the environment. (Ecologically pure fuels for the Soviet Energia space carrier...principle. Also additional one-time expenses of up to five billion rubles will be required for building and renovating everyday social and cultural...completely renovated by the year 2008, when the program will be completed. The M5 ballistic missile is being developed specially for the new generation of

Array distribution in data-parallel programs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chatterjee, Siddhartha; Gilbert, John R.; Schreiber, Robert; Sheffler, Thomas J.

1994-01-01

We consider distribution at compile time of the array data in a distributed-memory implementation of a data-parallel program written in a language like Fortran 90. We allow dynamic redistribution of data and define a heuristic algorithmic framework that chooses distribution parameters to minimize an estimate of program completion time. We represent the program as an alignment-distribution graph. We propose a divide-and-conquer algorithm for distribution that initially assigns a common distribution to each node of the graph and successively refines this assignment, taking computation, realignment, and redistribution costs into account. We explain how to estimate the effect of distribution on computation cost and how to choose a candidate set of distributions. We present the results of an implementation of our algorithms on several test problems.

Advanced stimulation technology deployment program: Sonat Exploration Company, Haynesville Formation, North Shongaloo, Red Rock Field, Columbia County, Arkansas and Webster Parish, Louisiana. Topical report, August 1995-January 1997

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

Skees, J.L.; Middlebrook, M.L.; Anthony, W.L.

1997-01-01

The objective of this program is to transfer the core GRI advanced stimulation technologies to Sonat Exploration Company for their continued use upon completion of the program. The methodology to accomplish the objective included seminars and training schools, offset well baseline analysis, fracture treatment design optimization, real-time and post-fracture treatment evaluation and documentation of economic benefits.

Australian university proposes academic program changes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zielinski, Sarah

The University of Melbourne in Australia has adopted a 10-year plan to create a U.S.-style of education where undergraduate university students would first have to complete a three-year general degree in science or the arts before being allowed to continue onto graduate or professional studies. Unlike in the United States, most Australian students are able to move from secondary school directly into professional studies.A major change for Earth science students would be the replacement of the one-year Bachelor of Science Honours with a two-year Masters program. According to Janet Hergt, head of the university's School of Earth Sciences, the longer program could allow students more time to develop and complete research projects, and would provide them with a better understanding of Ph.D.studies.

Regional Aquifer-System Analysis Program of the U.S. Geological Survey, 1978-1992

USGS Publications Warehouse

Sun, Ren Jen; Johnston, Richard H.

1994-01-01

The major ground-water systems of the United States have been investigated by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) through its Regional Aquifer-System Analysis (RASA) Program. During the first 15 years of the program (1978-92), 25 regional aquifer systems, including the most heavily pumped aquifers in the Nation, were intensively studied. As of mid-1992, 18 of the regional aquifer studies are completed or nearly so; 7 of the regional aquifer studies are ongoing, and compilation of a national ground-water atlas is in progress. This report summarizes the status of each RASA study and briefly describes the hydrology of the 25 regional aquifer systems. Important study results and examples of applications of study results are presented for some of the completed RASA investigations. The major contributions of the RASA Program are (1) assembly of data from numerous local studies and long-time data collections into systematic regional data bases; (2) comprehensive descriptions of the geologic, hydrologic, and geochemical characteristics of the regional aquifer systems; and (3) an understanding of how the regional ground-water-flow systems function under natural (predevelopment) and current (developed) conditions. To provide the comprehensive system descriptions, many of the RASA studies present, for the first time, maps depicting the hydrogeologic frameworks, water chemistry, potentiometric surfaces, and other aspects of entire regional aquifer systems. To provide an understanding of how the flow systems function, several of the completed RASA studies provide, for the first time, hydrologic budgets for both predevelopment and developed conditions. The results of the RASA Program are contained in nearly 900 reports published by the USGS, as well as various State and local agencies, and in articles published in scientific journals. A series of U.S. Geological Survey Professional Papers are being published to summarize and synthesize the results of each RASA study.

Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial of An Aged Care Specific Leadership and Management Program to Improve Work Environment, Staff Turnover, and Care Quality.

PubMed

Jeon, Yun-Hee; Simpson, Judy M; Li, Zhicheng; Cunich, Michelle M; Thomas, Tamsin H; Chenoweth, Lynn; Kendig, Hal L

2015-07-01

To evaluate the effectiveness of a leadership and management program in aged care. Double-blind cluster randomized controlled trial. Twelve residential and community-aged care sites in Australia. All care staff employed for 6 months or longer at the aged care sites were invited to participate in the surveys at 3 time points: baseline (time 1), 9 months from baseline (time 2), and 9 months after completion of time 2 (time 3) from 2011 to 2013. At each time point, at least 500 care staff completed a survey. At baseline (N = 503) the largest age group was 45 to 54 years (37%), and the majority of care staff were born in Australia (70%), spoke English (94%), and had at least completed secondary education (57%). A 12-month Clinical Leadership in Aged Care (CLiAC) program for middle managers, which aimed to further develop their leadership and management skills in creating positive workplace relationships and in enabling person-centered, evidence-based care. The primary outcomes were care staff ratings of the work environment, care quality and safety, and staff turnover rates. Secondary outcomes were care staff's intention to leave their employer and profession, workplace stress, job satisfaction, and cost-effectiveness of implementing the program. Absenteeism was excluded due to difficulty in obtaining reliable data. Managers' self-rated knowledge and skills in leadership and management are not included in this article, which focuses on care staff perceptions only. At 6 months after its completion, the CLiAC program was effective in improving care staff's perception of management support [mean difference 0.61, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.04-1.18; P = .04]. Compared with the control sites, care staff at the intervention sites perceived their managers' leadership styles as more transformational (mean difference 0.30, 95% CI 0.09-0.51; P = .005), transactional (mean difference 0.22, 95% CI 0.05-0.39; P = .01), and less passive avoidant (mean difference 0.30, 95% CI 0.07-0.52; P = .01); and were rated higher on the overall leadership outcomes (mean difference 0.35, 95% CI 0.13-0.56; P = .001) as well as individual manager outcomes: extra effort (P = .004), effectiveness (P = .001), and satisfaction (P = .01). There was no evidence that CLiAC was effective in reducing staff turnover, or improving patient care quality and safety. While the CLiAC leadership program had direct impact on the primary process outcomes (management support, leadership actions, behaviors, and effects), this was insufficient to change the systems required to support care service quality and client safety. Nevertheless, the findings send a strong message that leadership and management skills in aged care managers can be nurtured and used to change leadership behaviors at a reasonable cost. Copyright © 2015 AMDA - The Society for Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Evaluating the effectiveness of an online medical laboratory technician program.

PubMed

Hansen-Suchy, Kara

2011-01-01

The purpose of this study was to analyze the effectiveness of an online medical laboratory technician program in the academic preparation and development of laboratory professionals. A semi-quantitative comparative research design was used. Several factors were considered in this evaluation. Academic outcomes between online and campus medical laboratory technician (MLT) students was determined by comparing overall and categorical scores on certification exams as well as first time pass rate. Certification exam scores and first time pass rates were also compared to national norms when possible to do so. Demographic data, including age and experience were compared. Additionally, learning styles were assessed to determine if there was a correlation to overall GPA and MLT GPA and if learning styles could be used to predict successful completion of an online Associates of Applied Science. The research was conducted at an academic university located in the mountain west United States. Participants consisted of online and campus students enrolled in a Medical Laboratory Technician program that graduated with their Associate of Applied Science degree between the years 2007-2009. Results of these years were also compared to graduates from 2004-2006 in the same program. Certification performance and first time pass rates were the major outcomes measured. Age and experience were correlated. Online learning styles and GPA were also compared to successful degree completion. The researcher found no significant difference in certification performance with regard to total and categorical scores, and first time pass rates between campus and online MLT students. Online students were slightly older and had more experience working in a laboratory in some capacity. Correlation studies showed significant positive correlation between learning styles, GPA, and successful completion of an Associate of Applied Science degree. When registry scores were compared to the prior cohort of online students, some subcategories scores demonstrated a significant increase using Chi-squared analysis. The research demonstrated that the online MLT students studied were as academically prepared as their campus counterparts.

Improving completion rates for client intake forms through Audio Computer-Assisted Self-Interview (ACASI): results from a pilot study with the Avon Breast Health Outreach Program.

PubMed

Hallum-Montes, Rachel; Senter, Lindsay; D'Souza, Rohan; Gates-Ferris, Kathryn; Hurlbert, Marc; Anastario, Michael

2014-01-01

This study compares rates of completion of client intake forms (CIFs) collected via three interview modes: audio computer-assisted self-interview (ACASI), face-to-face interview (FFI), and self-administered paper-based interview (SAPI). A total of 303 clients served through the Avon Breast Health Outreach Program (BHOP) were sampled from three U.S. sites. Clients were randomly assigned to complete a standard CIF via one of the three interview modes. Logistic regression analyses demonstrated that clients were significantly more likely to complete the entire CIF via ACASI than either FFI or SAPI. The greatest observed differences were between ACASI and SAPI; clients were almost six times more likely to complete the CIF via ACASI as opposed to SAPI (AOR = 5.8, p < .001). We recommend that where feasible, ACASI be utilized as an effective means of collecting client-level data in healthcare settings. Adoption of ACASI in health centers may translate into higher completion rates of intake forms by clients, as well as reduced burden on clinic staff to enter data and review intake forms for completion. © 2013 National Association for Healthcare Quality.

Selection, Interviews, and Appointments | Cancer Prevention Fellowship Program

Cancer.gov

The CPFP Scientific Education Committee reviews complete applications submitted on time. This committee is comprised of scientists from different divisions of NCI, and FDA, and a non-NCI expert in cancer prevention and control.

Parent Engagement With a Telehealth-Based Parent-Mediated Intervention Program for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders: Predictors of Program Use and Parent Outcomes

PubMed Central

Berger, Natalie I

2015-01-01

Background There has been growing interest in using telehealth to increase access to parent-mediated interventions for children with ASD. However, little is known about how parents engage with such programs. Objective This paper presents program engagement data from a pilot study comparing self-directed and therapist-assisted versions of a novel telehealth-based parent-mediated intervention for young children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Methods Parents of young children with ASD were randomly assigned to receive a self-directed or therapist-assisted version of ImPACT Online. Parent engagement and satisfaction with the different components of the program website were examined using the program’s automated data collection and a post-treatment evaluation survey. We examined the relationship between program engagement and changes in parent knowledge and implementation and participant characteristics associated with program engagement. Results Of the 27 parent participants, the majority were female (26/27, 96%), married (22/27, 81%), with a college degree or higher (15/27, 56%), and less than half were not employed outside of the home (10/27, 37%). The mean chronological age of the child participants was 43.26 months, and the majority were male (19/27, 70%) and white (21/27, 78%). Most of the families (19/27, 70%) resided in a rural or medically underserved area. Parents logged into the website an average of 46.85 times, spent an average of 964.70 minutes on the site, and completed an average of 90.17% of the lesson learning activities. Participants in the therapist-assisted group were more likely to engage with the website than those in the self-directed group: F 2,24=17.65, P<.001. In total, 85% of participants completed the program, with a significantly greater completion rate in the therapist-assisted group (N=27): χ2 1=5.06, P=.03. Lesson learning activities were visited significantly more often than the supplemental activities (all Ps<.05). Multiple regression controlling for pretreatment performance indicated that program completion (beta=.51, P=.02) predicted post-treatment intervention knowledge, and program completion (beta=.43, P=.03) and group assignment (beta=-.37, P=.045) predicted post-treatment intervention fidelity. Partial correlations indicated that parent depressive symptoms at pretreatment were negatively associated with program completion (r=-.40, P=.04), but other key parent and child demographic factors were not. Post-treatment measures of website usability (r=.65, P<.001), treatment acceptability (r=.58, P=.002), and overall satisfaction (r=.58, P=.002) were all related to program completion. Conclusions Parent engagement and satisfaction with ImPACT Online was high for both self-directed and therapist-assisted versions of the program, although therapist assistance increased engagement. Program completion was associated with parent outcomes, providing support for the role of the website in parent learning. This program has the potential to increase access to parent-mediated intervention for families of children with ASD. PMID:26443557

Changing Social Networks Among Homeless Individuals: A Prospective Evaluation of a Job- and Life-Skills Training Program.

PubMed

Gray, Heather M; Shaffer, Paige M; Nelson, Sarah E; Shaffer, Howard J

2016-10-01

Social networks play important roles in mental and physical health among the general population. Building healthier social networks might contribute to the development of self-sufficiency among people struggling to overcome homelessness and substance use disorders. In this study of homeless adults completing a job- and life-skills program (i.e., the Moving Ahead Program at St. Francis House, Boston), we prospectively examined changes in social network quality, size, and composition. Among the sample of participants (n = 150), we observed positive changes in social network quality over time. However, social network size and composition did not change among the full sample. The subset of participants who reported abstaining from alcohol during the months before starting the program reported healthy changes in their social networks; specifically, while completing the program, they re-structured their social networks such that fewer members of their network used alcohol to intoxication. We discuss practical implications of these findings.

Radar target classification studies: Software development and documentation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kamis, A.; Garber, F.; Walton, E.

1985-09-01

Three computer programs were developed to process and analyze calibrated radar returns. The first program, called DATABASE, was developed to create and manage a random accessed data base. The second program, called FTRAN DB, was developed to process horizontal and vertical polarizations radar returns into different formats (i.e., time domain, circular polarizations and polarization parameters). The third program, called RSSE, was developed to simulate a variety of radar systems and to evaluate their ability to identify radar returns. Complete computer listings are included in the appendix volumes.

32 CFR 1639.3 - Basis for classification in Class 2-D.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... instruction required for entrance into a recognized theological or divinity school in which he has been pre... in a recognized theological or divinity school; or (3) Who, having completed theological or divinity school, is a student in a full-time graduate program or is a full-time intern, and whose studies are...

32 CFR 1639.3 - Basis for classification in Class 2-D.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... instruction required for entrance into a recognized theological or divinity school in which he has been pre... in a recognized theological or divinity school; or (3) Who, having completed theological or divinity school, is a student in a full-time graduate program or is a full-time intern, and whose studies are...

32 CFR 1639.3 - Basis for classification in Class 2-D.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... instruction required for entrance into a recognized theological or divinity school in which he has been pre... in a recognized theological or divinity school; or (3) Who, having completed theological or divinity school, is a student in a full-time graduate program or is a full-time intern, and whose studies are...

75 FR 68381 - Gear Certification Standard; Extension of the Office of Management and Budget's (OMB) Approval of...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-11-05

... prospective accredited agency to complete the form. Total Burden Hours: 190. Estimated Cost (Operation and...)). This program ensures that information is in the desired format, reporting burden (time and costs) is...; The accuracy of OSHA's estimate of the burden (time and costs) of the information collection...

Outcomes and Processes in the Meyerhoff Scholars Program: STEM PhD Completion, Sense of Community, Perceived Program Benefit, Science Identity, and Research Self-Efficacy.

PubMed

Maton, Kenneth I; Beason, Tiffany S; Godsay, Surbhi; Sto Domingo, Mariano R; Bailey, TaShara C; Sun, Shuyan; Hrabowski, Freeman A

2016-01-01

Previous research has shown that the Meyerhoff Scholars Program at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, is an effective intervention for high-achieving underrepresented minority (URM) students; African-American Meyerhoff students are significantly more likely to enter science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) PhD programs than comparison students. The first of two studies in this report extends the prior research by examining levels of PhD completion for Meyerhoff (N = 479) versus comparison sample (N = 249) students among the first 16 cohorts. Entering African-American Meyerhoff students were 4.8 times more likely to complete STEM PhDs than comparison sample students. To enhance understanding of potential mechanisms of influence, the second study used data from the 22nd (Fall 2010) to 25th (Fall 2013) cohorts (N = 109) to test the hypothesis that perceived program benefit at the end of freshman year would mediate the relationship between sense of community at the end of Summer Bridge and science identity and research self-efficacy at the end of sophomore year. Study 2 results indicated that perceived program benefit fully mediated the relationship between sense of community and both criterion measures. The findings underscore the potential of comprehensive STEM intervention programs to enhance PhD completion, and suggest mechanisms of influence. © 2016 K. I. Maton et al. CBE—Life Sciences Education © 2016 The American Society for Cell Biology. This article is distributed by The American Society for Cell Biology under license from the author(s). It is available to the public under an Attribution–Noncommercial–Share Alike 3.0 Unported Creative Commons License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/3.0).

Factors that affect implementation of web-based faculty evaluation forms: residents' perspectives from a developing country.

PubMed

Ibrahim, S H; Ali, S K; Sadaf, S

2010-08-01

A web-based evaluation system for residents to provide feedback on faculty was piloted in four training programs at the Aga Khan University prior to institution-wide implementation. Of the four programs, less than 50% of forms were submitted by residents of three programs while more than 70% of forms were submitted by the residents of one program. This study was conducted to identify reasons for the varying participation rates of the four programs with a view to improving the system. A qualitative approach was employed using focus group discussions (FGDs). Volunteers were invited and three groups of eight to ten residents each were formed. Participants for FGDs were selected from all residency years. FGDs were used to identify residents' perceptions regarding the web-based faculty evaluation system and to identify residents' problems and concerns with completing the web-based faculty evaluating forms. Technical issues in completing and submitting the forms online were identified to be the main deterrents to completing the evaluation forms. Non-accessibility of a resource person for resolving technical problems with the software and the burden of taking time out to complete the forms were considered as limiting factors by many residents. Residents recommended a focused orientation session to the new system within the departments. Residents' confidence and support are key to promoting adequate participation in web-based evaluations. Focused orientation sessions, reinforcement, reminders, assurances of confidentiality, and removal of technical glitches should help to improve resident participation.

25 CFR 26.25 - What constitutes a complete Job Placement Program application?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 25 Indians 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false What constitutes a complete Job Placement Program... JOB PLACEMENT AND TRAINING PROGRAM Job Placement Services § 26.25 What constitutes a complete Job Placement Program application? To be complete, a Job Placement Program application must contain all of the...

25 CFR 26.25 - What constitutes a complete Job Placement Program application?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 25 Indians 1 2012-04-01 2011-04-01 true What constitutes a complete Job Placement Program... JOB PLACEMENT AND TRAINING PROGRAM Job Placement Services § 26.25 What constitutes a complete Job Placement Program application? To be complete, a Job Placement Program application must contain all of the...

25 CFR 26.25 - What constitutes a complete Job Placement Program application?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 25 Indians 1 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false What constitutes a complete Job Placement Program... JOB PLACEMENT AND TRAINING PROGRAM Job Placement Services § 26.25 What constitutes a complete Job Placement Program application? To be complete, a Job Placement Program application must contain all of the...

25 CFR 26.25 - What constitutes a complete Job Placement Program application?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 25 Indians 1 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false What constitutes a complete Job Placement Program... JOB PLACEMENT AND TRAINING PROGRAM Job Placement Services § 26.25 What constitutes a complete Job Placement Program application? To be complete, a Job Placement Program application must contain all of the...

The Milestones Passport: A Learner-Centered Application of the Milestone Framework to Prompt Real-Time Feedback in the Emergency Department.

PubMed

Yarris, Lalena M; Jones, David; Kornegay, Joshua G; Hansen, Matthew

2014-09-01

In July 2013, emergency medicine residency programs implemented the Milestone assessment as part of the Next Accreditation System. We hypothesized that applying the Milestone framework to real-time feedback in the emergency department (ED) could affect current feedback processes and culture. We describe the development and implementation of a Milestone-based, learner-centered intervention designed to prompt real-time feedback in the ED. We developed and implemented the Milestones Passport, a feedback intervention incorporating subcompetencies, in our residency program in July 2013. Our primary outcomes were feasibility, including faculty and staff time and costs, number of documented feedback encounters in the first 2 months of implementation, and user-reported time required to complete the intervention. We also assessed learner and faculty acceptability. Development and implementation of the Milestones Passport required 10 hours of program coordinator time, 120 hours of software developer time, and 20 hours of faculty time. Twenty-eight residents and 34 faculty members generated 257 Milestones Passport feedback encounters. Most residents and faculty reported that the encounters required fewer than 5 minutes to complete, and 48% (12 of 25) of the residents and 68% (19 of 28) of faculty reported satisfaction with the Milestones Passport intervention. Faculty satisfaction with overall feedback in the ED improved after the intervention (93% versus 54%, P  =  .003), whereas resident satisfaction with feedback did not change significantly. The Milestones Passport feedback intervention was feasible and acceptable to users; however, learner satisfaction with the Milestone assessment in the ED was modest.

Fellowships for Students Pursuing Interdisciplinary MS with a Focus on Wind Energy

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

Naughton, Jonathan W.

The production of electricity from wind has grown rapidly in the U.S. and abroad. A problem generated by this rapid growth is the need for a highly trained workforce as has been discussed openly in recent workshops and in discussions with wind energy manufacturers and developers. In addition, the 20% by 2030 report lists workforce development as among the critical needs if the initiative is to succeed. This report also identified that, for this initiative to succeed, many of the wind energy related technologies needed to advance. As a result, a critical component of the workforce development is the highlymore » trained personnel that can contribute to this technology advancement. The objective of this effort was to attract several highly qualified candidates to pursue a wind-energy focused interdisciplinary degree at the Masters Degree level. Since it was desired to produce these candidates as quickly as possible, fellowships were to be provided to the best candidates so that they could complete their degree quickly and transition to the workforce in the minimum time possible. In the course of advertising for these high quality candidates, it was hoped that other students would also be made aware of the educational and research opportunities offered by the Wind Energy Research Center (WERC). To ensure a wind energy focus for the students, a curriculum focused on wind was encouraged, but the curriculum was sufficiently flexible to allow the students to tailor the experience to meet their interests. Options for the students included internships or a thesis in addition to coursework only programs. The results of this effort are considered to be an overall success. Six students started the program and all have either completed or are in the last stages of completing the program. Individuals with a broad range of backgrounds started the program demonstrating that students from many areas can successfully complete such a program. On average, the students took longer than the expected three semesters and summer to complete the program, but this was largely due to the choices they made in their degree programs. All of the students completing their degree have either moved on to employment, graduate school, or are finishing up their degrees and actively looking for their next position. The outcomes of this program can thus serve to guide institutions looking to develop a similar program« less

HARPA: A versatile three-dimensional Hamiltonian ray-tracing program for acoustic waves in the atmosphere above irregular terrain

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jones, R. M.; Riley, J. P.; Georges, T. M.

1986-08-01

The modular FORTRAN 77 computer program traces the three-dimensional paths of acoustic rays through continuous model atmospheres by numerically integrating Hamilton's equations (a differential expression of Fermat's principle). The user specifies an atmospheric model by writing closed-form formulas for its three-dimensional wind and temperature (or sound speed) distribution, and by defining the height of the reflecting terrain vs. geographic latitude and longitude. Some general-purpose models are provided, or users can readily design their own. In addition to computing the geometry of each raypath, HARPA can calculate pulse travel time, phase time, Doppler shift (if the medium varies in time), absorption, and geometrical path length. The program prints a step-by-step account of a ray's progress. The 410-page documentation describes the ray-tracing equations and the structure of the program, and provides complete instructions, illustrated by a sample case.

A quantitative analysis of factors that influence and predict students' intention to major in and complete an undergraduate program in STEM or non-STEM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Xuemei

2005-11-01

The goal of this study was to explore and understand the factors that influence students' intention to major in and complete an undergraduate program in a science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) discipline, in a non-STEM field, and how students' gender directly and indirectly affects their success in college. A quantitative study of three thousand four (3004) ACT-tested students who entered a Midwestern, land-grant university as freshmen in fall, 1999 was conducted based on their ACT Assessment information and their enrollment and graduation status after five years. A wide variety of variables were considered and logistic regression, factor analysis, and path analysis were used to analyze the data. The results show that students who intended to major in or completed STEM programs generally have better academic qualifications than their counterparts who intended to major in non-STEM fields. Students who intended to major in or completed STEM programs came from lower income families and smaller communities than those who intended to major in or graduated from non-STEM programs. In this study, gender's direct effect on students' college achievement is eleven times the total of gender's indirect effects through several major factors for students in both STEM fields and non-STEM fields. Perhaps nature has favored females when students' achievement is measured as their college GPA. The results also show that the overall high dropout rate is strongly associated with students' inadequate preparation in high school and family income. Out-of-school accomplishment in community service is a negative influence on their completion of a college degree. ACT scores are not necessary for prediction of college graduation.

Evaluating leadership training in African American HIV prevention organizations.

PubMed

Coleman, Jason D; Dauner, Kim Nichols; Richter, Donna L; Annang, Lucy; Sellers, Denethia B; Lindley, Lisa L

2011-09-01

This article aimed to examine changes in the HIV prevention capacity of HIV prevention program managers who completed the Institute for HIV Prevention Leadership ("Institute") between 2002 and 2004, and who worked in community-based organizations that primarily served African Americans. Participants completed a survey at three points in time, in which they rated the frequency with which they conducted activities related to HIV prevention practice. Participants also rated their confidence in performing activities. Repeated measures ANOVA was conducted to detect differences at three time points (baseline, immediate posttest, and 6 months posttest). A significant overall positive trend was found in the frequency and confidence of participants to perform specific HIV prevention practices and an overall positive trend in the frequency of processes that support HIV prevention practice. Investment in long-term, intensive, capacity-building programs like the Institute is critical to address the increasing incidence of HIV in many African American communities.

EMAN2: an extensible image processing suite for electron microscopy.

PubMed

Tang, Guang; Peng, Liwei; Baldwin, Philip R; Mann, Deepinder S; Jiang, Wen; Rees, Ian; Ludtke, Steven J

2007-01-01

EMAN is a scientific image processing package with a particular focus on single particle reconstruction from transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images. It was first released in 1999, and new versions have been released typically 2-3 times each year since that time. EMAN2 has been under development for the last two years, with a completely refactored image processing library, and a wide range of features to make it much more flexible and extensible than EMAN1. The user-level programs are better documented, more straightforward to use, and written in the Python scripting language, so advanced users can modify the programs' behavior without any recompilation. A completely rewritten 3D transformation class simplifies translation between Euler angle standards and symmetry conventions. The core C++ library has over 500 functions for image processing and associated tasks, and it is modular with introspection capabilities, so programmers can add new algorithms with minimal effort and programs can incorporate new capabilities automatically. Finally, a flexible new parallelism system has been designed to address the shortcomings in the rigid system in EMAN1.

The Global Footprint of Oral Medicine Specialists: The University of Pennsylvania Experience.

PubMed

Stoopler, Eric T; De Rossi, Scott S; Greenberg, Martin S; Sollecito, Thomas P

2016-12-01

The aim of this study was to analyze the global footprint of oral medicine specialists who graduated from the University of Pennsylvania oral medicine residency program. In 2016, a cross-sectional electronic survey was distributed to 53 graduates of that program, asking about their current geographical location and professional status. Of those 53 graduates, 23 (43%) completed the survey with 22 reporting their current location and 21 reporting their current professional status. The results showed that 17 graduates were located within the U.S., and five were located internationally. Twelve graduates were in full-time academic positions, three were in part-time academic positions/part-time private practice, three were in full-time private practice, two were in postdoctoral training programs, and one was not employed. This study found that oral medicine specialists trained at the University of Pennsylvania were located both domestically and internationally. The majority held faculty positions at academic institutions with fewer involved in private practice. This program may thus be considered a source of future dental academicians.

Parallelization of Program to Optimize Simulated Trajectories (POST3D)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hammond, Dana P.; Korte, John J. (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

This paper describes the parallelization of the Program to Optimize Simulated Trajectories (POST3D). POST3D uses a gradient-based optimization algorithm that reaches an optimum design point by moving from one design point to the next. The gradient calculations required to complete the optimization process, dominate the computational time and have been parallelized using a Single Program Multiple Data (SPMD) on a distributed memory NUMA (non-uniform memory access) architecture. The Origin2000 was used for the tests presented.

Changing Criminal Attitudes Among Incarcerated Offenders: Initial Examination of a Structured Treatment Program.

PubMed

Simourd, David J; Olver, Mark E; Brandenburg, Bryan

2016-09-01

The present study investigated the effect of a criminal attitude treatment program to changes on measured criminal attitudes and postprogram recidivism. The criminal attitude program (CAP) is a standardized therapeutic curriculum consisting of 15 modules offering 44 hr of therapeutic time. It was delivered by trained facilitators to a total of 113 male offenders incarcerated in one of five state correctional institutions. Pretreatment and posttreatment comparisons were made on standardized measures of criminal attitudes, response bias, and motivation for lifestyle changes. Results found statistically significant lower criminal attitudes at posttreatment that were unaffected by response bias. There were also increases in motivation for lifestyle changes, but these did not reach statistical significance. Fifty-seven participants were released into the community following the program and were eligible for recidivism analyses. Comparisons between participants who completed the CAP and those who did not complete the CAP revealed 7% lower rearrest among CAP completers. Although preliminary, these results indicate that the CAP had a positive effect on changes to criminal attitudes and recidivism. The findings are discussed in terms of conceptual and practical considerations in the assessment and treatment of criminal attitudes among offenders. © The Author(s) 2015.

Assessment of Program Impact Through First Grade, Volume III: Impact on Parents. An Evaluation of Project Developmental Continuity. Interim Report X.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Morris, Mary; And Others

Third in a series of six, this volume reports findings concerning the impact of Project Developmental Continuity (PDC) on the parents of the evaluation study's cohort of children as well as preliminary findings on the relationship between family characteristics and program outcome variables up to the time the children had completed grade 1. Begun…

Assessment of Program Impact Through First Grade, Volume II: Impact on Institutions. An Evaluation of Project Developmental Continuity. Interim Report X.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rosario, Jose; And Others

As part of a longitudinal study evaluating program effects, this report, the second in a series of six, describes the impact of Project Developmental Continuity (PDC) on the institutional policies and procedures of participating Head Start centers and elementary schools up to the time the evaluation study's cohort of children had completed grade…

Parental Involvement and Home Environment in Music: Current and Former Students from Selected Community Music Programs in Brazil and the United States

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Barnes, Gail V.; DeFreitas, Aureo; Grego, John

2016-01-01

The purpose of this study was to determine whether individuals' perceptions of parental involvement and home environment in music vary with nationality (Brazil/United States) and time frame (past/current). Past and current students from selected community music programs in the United States and Brazil completed the PI-HEM (Parental Involvement and…

Industrial advanced turbine systems: Development and demonstration. Annual report, October 1, 1996--September 30, 1997

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

NONE

1997-12-31

The US DOE has initiated a program for advanced turbine systems (ATS) that will serve industrial power generation markets. The ATS will provide ultra-high efficiency, environmental superiority, and cost competitiveness. The ATS will foster (1) early market penetration that enhances the global competitiveness of US industry, (2) public health benefits resulting from reduced exhaust gas emissions of target pollutants, (3) reduced cost of power used in the energy-intensive industrial marketplace and (4) the retention and expansion of the skilled US technology base required for the design, development and maintenance of state-of-the-art advanced turbine products. The Industrial ATS Development and Demonstrationmore » program is a multi-phased effort. Solar Turbines Incorporated (Solar) has participated in Phases 1 and 2 of the program. On September 14, 1995 Solar was awarded a Cooperative Agreement for Phases 3 and 4 of the program. Phase 3 of the work is separated into two subphases: Phase 3A entails Component Design and Development Phase 3B will involve Integrated Subsystem Testing. Phase 4 will cover Host Site Testing. Forecasts call for completion of the program within budget as originally estimated. Scheduled completion is forecasted to be approximately 3 years late to original plan. This delay has been intentionally planned in order to better match program tasks to the anticipated availability of DOE funds. To ensure the timely realization of DOE/Solar program goals, the development schedule for the smaller system (Mercury 50) and enabling technologies has been maintained, and commissioning of the field test unit is scheduled for May of 2000. As of the end of the reporting period work on the program is 22.80% complete based upon milestones completed. This measurement is considered quite conservative as numerous drawings on the Mercury 50 are near release. Variance information is provided in Section 4.0-Program Management.« less

Stakeholders' interest in and challenges to implementing farm-to-school programs, Douglas County, Nebraska, 2010-2011.

PubMed

Pinard, Courtney A; Smith, Teresa M; Carpenter, Leah R; Chapman, Mary; Balluff, Mary; Yaroch, Amy L

2013-12-19

Schools are uniquely positioned to influence the dietary habits of children, and farm-to-school programs can increase fruit and vegetable consumption among school-aged children. We assessed the feasibility of, interest in, and barriers to implementing farm-to-school activities in 7 school districts in Douglas County, Nebraska. We used a preassessment and postassessment survey to obtain data from 3 stakeholder groups: school food service directors, local food producers, and food distributors. We had a full-time farm-to-school coordinator who was able to engage multiple stakeholders and oversee the development and dissemination of a toolkit. We used descriptive statistics to make comparisons. Seven food service directors, 5 distributors identified by the food service directors, and 57 local producers (9 completed only the preassessment survey, 16 completed only the postassessment survey, and 32 completed both) completed various components of the assessment. Interest in pursuing farm-to-school activities to incorporate more local foods in the school lunch program increased during the 2-year project; mean interest in purchasing local foods by food service directors for their districts increased from 4.4 to 4.7 (on a scale of 1 to 5). Implementing farm-to-school programming in Douglas County, Nebraska, is feasible, although food safety and distribution is a main concern among food service directors. Additional research on feasibility, infrastructure, and education is recommended.

A multi-site controlled trial of a cognitive skills program for mentally disordered offenders.

PubMed

Rees-Jones, Angharad; Gudjonsson, Gisli; Young, Susan

2012-05-18

The effectiveness of offending behaviour programs in forensic mental health settings is not well established. Thus this study aimed to evaluate the Reasoning and Rehabilitation Mental Health program (R&R2 MHP) among a mentally disordered offender (MDO) population. A sample of 121 adult males drawn from 10 forensic mental health sites completed questionnaires at baseline and post-treatment to assess violent attitudes, locus of control, social problem-solving and anger. An informant measure of social and psychological functioning, including disruptive behaviour, was completed by unit staff at the same time. At three month follow-up patients completed again the violent attitudes and locus of control questionnaires. The data of 67 patients who participated in the group condition were compared with 54 waiting-list controls who received treatment as usual. 78% of group participants completed the program. In contrast to controls, significant treatment effects were found at outcome on self-reported measures of violent attitudes, rational problem-solving and anger cognitions. Improvements were endorsed by informant ratings of social and psychological functioning within the establishments. At follow-up significant treatment effects were found for both violent attitudes and locus of control. R&R2 MHP was effective in a sample of MDOs and had a comparatively low drop-out rate. Future research should use a randomized controlled design.

Integrated injury prevention program improves balance and vertical jump height in children.

PubMed

DiStefano, Lindsay J; Padua, Darin A; Blackburn, J Troy; Garrett, William E; Guskiewicz, Kevin M; Marshall, Stephen W

2010-02-01

Implementing an injury prevention program to athletes under age 12 years may reduce injury rates. There is limited knowledge regarding whether these young athletes will be able to modify balance and performance measures after completing a traditional program that has been effective with older athletes or whether they require a specialized program for their age. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of a pediatric program, which was designed specifically for young athletes, and a traditional program with no program in the ability to change balance and performance measures in youth athletes. We used a cluster-randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effects of the programs before and after a 9-week intervention period. Sixty-five youth soccer athletes (males: n = 37 mass = 34.16 +/- 5.36 kg, height = 143.07 +/- 6.27 cm, age = 10 +/- 1 yr; females: n = 28 mass = 33.82 +/- 5.37 kg, height = 141.02 +/- 6.59 cm) volunteered to participate and attended 2 testing sessions in a research laboratory. Teams were cluster-randomized to either a pediatric or traditional injury prevention program or a control group. Change scores for anterior-posterior and medial-lateral time-to-stabilization measures and maximum vertical jump height and power were calculated from pretest and post-test sessions. Contrary with our original hypotheses, the traditional program resulted in positive changes, whereas the pediatric program did not result in any improvements. Anterior-posterior time-to-stabilization decreased after the traditional program (mean change +/- SD = -0.92 +/- 0.49 s) compared with the control group (-0.49 +/- 0.59 s) (p = 0.003). The traditional program also increased vertical jump height (1.70 +/- 2.80 cm) compared with the control group (0.20 +/- 0.20 cm) (p = 0.04). There were no significant differences between control and pediatric programs. Youth athletes can improve balance ability and vertical jump height after completing an injury prevention program. Training specificity appears to affect improvements and should be considered with future program design.

Energy Expenditure During Extravehicular Activity Through Apollo

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Paul, Heather L.

2011-01-01

Monitoring crew health during manned space missions has always been an important factor to ensure that the astronauts can complete the missions successfully and within safe physiological limits. The necessity of real-time metabolic rate monitoring during extravehicular activities (EVAs) came into question during the Gemini missions, when the energy expenditure required to complete EVA tasks exceeded the life support capabilities for cooling and humidity control and crewmembers (CMs) ended the EVAs fatigued and overworked. This paper discusses the importance of real-time monitoring of metabolic rate during EVA, and provides a historical look at energy expenditure during EVA through the Apollo program.

Scheduling of House Development Projects with CPM and PERT Method for Time Efficiency (Case Study: House Type 36)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kholil, Muhammad; Nurul Alfa, Bonitasari; Hariadi, Madjumsyah

2018-04-01

Network planning is one of the management techniques used to plan and control the implementation of a project, which shows the relationship between activities. The objective of this research is to arrange network planning on house construction project on CV. XYZ and to know the role of network planning in increasing the efficiency of time so that can be obtained the optimal project completion period. This research uses descriptive method, where the data collected by direct observation to the company, interview, and literature study. The result of this research is optimal time planning in project work. Based on the results of the research, it can be concluded that the use of the both methods in scheduling of house construction project gives very significant effect on the completion time of the project. The company’s CPM (Critical Path Method) method can complete the project with 131 days, PERT (Program Evaluation Review and Technique) Method takes 136 days. Based on PERT calculation obtained Z = -0.66 or 0,2546 (from normal distribution table), and also obtained the value of probability or probability is 74,54%. This means that the possibility of house construction project activities can be completed on time is high enough. While without using both methods the project completion time takes 173 days. So using the CPM method, the company can save time up to 42 days and has time efficiency by using network planning.

Phase II trial of a syllable-timed speech treatment for school-age children who stutter.

PubMed

Andrews, Cheryl; O'Brian, Sue; Onslow, Mark; Packman, Ann; Menzies, Ross; Lowe, Robyn

2016-06-01

A recent clinical trial (Andrews et al., 2012) showed Syllable Timed Speech (STS) to be a potentially useful treatment agent for the reduction of stuttering for school-age children. The present trial investigated a modified version of this program that incorporated parent verbal contingencies. Participants were 22 stuttering children aged 6-11 years. Treatment involved training the children and their parents to use STS in conversation. Parents were also taught to use verbal contingencies in response to their child's stuttered and stutter-free speech and to praise their child's use of STS. Outcome assessments were conducted pre-treatment, at the completion of Stage 1 of the program and 6 months and 12 months after Stage 1 completion. Outcomes are reported for the 19 children who completed Stage 1 of the program. The group mean percent stuttering reduction was 77% from pre-treatment to 12 months post-treatment, and 82% with the two least responsive participants removed. There was considerable variation in response to the treatment. Eleven of the children showed reduced avoidance of speaking situations and 18 were more satisfied with their fluency post-treatment. However, there was some suggestion that stuttering control was not sufficient to fully eliminate situation avoidance for the children. The results of this trial are sufficiently encouraging to warrant further clinical trials of the method. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

76 FR 4997 - Medicare Program; Inpatient Psychiatric Facilities Prospective Payment System-Update for Rate...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-01-27

.... Repeating this step for other periods produces a series of market basket levels over time. Dividing an index..., P.O. Box 8010, Baltimore, MD 21244-1850. Please allow sufficient time for mailed comments to be...); interrupted stays; and a per treatment adjustment for patients who undergo ECT. A complete discussion of the...

76 FR 22920 - Stab Resistance of Personal Body Armor (2000) Standard Special Technical Committee Request for...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-04-25

... meetings over an 18-month time period with the goal of completing development of the standard and certification program requirements. It is anticipated that STC meetings will begin in June 2011. Travel expenses and per diem will be reimbursed for all STC meetings; however, participation time will not be funded...

76 FR 22919 - Protective Helmet Standard Special Technical Committee Request for Proposals for Certification...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-04-25

... meetings over an 18-month time period with the goal of completing development of the standard and certification program requirements. It is anticipated that STC meetings will begin in June 2011. Travel expenses and per diem will be reimbursed for all STC meetings; however, participation time will not be funded...

A National Study of Student Early Alert Programs at Two-Year Institutions of Higher Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fletcher, Darla Michelle Keel

2012-01-01

Approximately half of students at the community college level leave the institution before degree completion. Community college students are more likely than four-year students to be first-generation students, attend school part-time, be less prepared academically, work full-time, have family responsibilities, and have entered college later in…

Seeking the Path to Adjunct Justice at Marquette University

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Maguire, Daniel C.

2008-01-01

This article presents the outcomes from a case at Marquette University (USA), brought by seven Ph.D. adjuncts who had completed their doctoral programs and were currently teaching part-time as they sought full-time positions elsewhere. The case identified a disparity that is happening at many U.S. colleges and universities that increasing rely…

Small Steps: Preliminary effectiveness and feasibility of an incremental goal-setting intervention to reduce sitting time in older adults.

PubMed

Lewis, L K; Rowlands, A V; Gardiner, P A; Standage, M; English, C; Olds, T

2016-03-01

This study aimed to evaluate the preliminary effectiveness and feasibility of a theory-informed program to reduce sitting time in older adults. Pre-experimental (pre-post) study. Thirty non-working adult (≥ 60 years) participants attended a one hour face-to-face intervention session and were guided through: a review of their sitting time; normative feedback on sitting time; and setting goals to reduce total sitting time and bouts of prolonged sitting. Participants chose six goals and integrated one per week incrementally for six weeks. Participants received weekly phone calls. Sitting time and bouts of prolonged sitting (≥ 30 min) were measured objectively for seven days (activPAL3c inclinometer) pre- and post-intervention. During these periods, a 24-h time recall instrument was administered by computer-assisted telephone interview. Participants completed a post-intervention project evaluation questionnaire. Paired t tests with sequential Bonferroni corrections and Cohen's d effect sizes were calculated for all outcomes. Twenty-seven participants completed the assessments (71.7 ± 6.5 years). Post-intervention, objectively-measured total sitting time was significantly reduced by 51.5 min per day (p=0.006; d=-0.58) and number of bouts of prolonged sitting by 0.8 per day (p=0.002; d=-0.70). Objectively-measured standing increased by 39 min per day (p=0.006; d=0.58). Participants self-reported spending 96 min less per day sitting (p<0.001; d=-0.77) and 32 min less per day watching television (p=0.005; d=-0.59). Participants were highly satisfied with the program. The 'Small Steps' program is a feasible and promising avenue for behavioral modification to reduce sitting time in older adults. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

The Community College Internship Program at NREL | NREL

Science.gov Websites

lower. Drug Screening and Background Check NREL coordinates a one-time background investigation and drug the drug screening, they have 72 hours to complete the required urine test. Work Hours NREL encourages

Curriculum for Commissioning Energy Efficient Buildings

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

Webster, Lia

2012-12-27

In July 2010, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) awarded funding to PECI to develop training curriculum in commercial energy auditing and building commissioning. This program was created in response to the high demand for auditing and commissioning services in the U.S. commercial buildings market and to bridge gaps and barriers in existing training programs. Obstacles addressed included: lack of focus on entry level candidates; prohibitive cost and time required for training; lack of hands-on training; trainings that focus on certifications & process overviews; and lack of comprehensive training. PECI organized several other industry players to create a co-funded projectmore » sponsored by DOE, PECI, New York State Energy and Research Development Authority (NYSERDA), California Energy Commission (CEC), Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA) and California Commissioning Collaborative (CCC). After awarded, PECI teamed with another DOE awardee, New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), to work collaboratively to create one comprehensive program featuring two training tracks. NJIT’s Center for Building Knowledge is a research and training institute affiliated with the College of Architecture and Design, and provided e-learning and video enhancements. This project designed and developed two training programs with a comprehensive, energy-focused curriculum to prepare new entrants to become energy auditors or commissioning authorities (CxAs). The following are the key elements of the developed trainings, which is depicted graphically in Figure 1: • Online classes are self-paced, and can be completed anywhere, any time • Commissioning Authority track includes 3 online modules made up of 24 courses delivered in 104 individual lessons, followed by a 40 hour hands-on lab. Total time required is between 75 and 100 hours, depending on the pace of the independent learner. • Energy Auditor track includes 3 online modules made up of 18 courses delivered in 72 individual lessons, followed by a 24 hour hands-on lab. Total time required is between 50 and 70 hours, depending on the pace of the independent learner. • Individual courses can be taken for continuing education credits. • Assessments are included for each course, and a score of at least 80% is required for completion. • Completion of Modules 1 through 3 is prerequisite for participating in the laboratory. More experienced participants have the option to test out of Modules 1 and 2 and complete Module 3 to progress to the laboratory.« less

Research training of Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics fellows: a survey of fellowship directors by Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics Research Network.

PubMed

Wiley, Susan; Schonfeld, David J; Fredstrom, Bridget; Huffman, Lynne

2013-01-01

To describe research training in Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics (DBP) Fellowship Programs. Thirty-five US-accredited DBP fellowships were contacted through the Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics Research Network to complete an online survey on scholarly work and research training. With an 83% response rate, responding programs represented 110 (87 filled) fellowship positions. External funding for fellowship positions was minimal (11 positions fully funded, 13 funded above 50% of cost). Structured research training included didactic lectures, web-based training, university courses, direct mentoring, journal clubs, and required reading. Of the 159 fellows described, spanning a 5-year training period, the majority chose projects relying on their own data collection (57%) rather than joining an existing research study and focused on clinical research (86%). Among 96 fellows with completed scholarly work, 29% were observational/epidemiological studies, 22% secondary analyses of large data sets, 16% community-based research, and 15% survey design. A limited number of fellows pursued basic science, meta-analysis/critical appraisal of the literature, or analysis of public policy. Barriers to successful fellow research are as follows: lack of time and money, challenges in balancing clinical demands and protected faculty research time, limited faculty research opportunities, time or expertise, and a lack of infrastructure for fellow research mentoring. The scholarly work of fellows in DBP fellowship programs has primarily focused on clinical research using observational/epidemiological research and secondary analysis of large data set. Barriers largely in faculty time and expertise for research mentoring and inadequate funding in programs that have high clinical demands and little resources for research efforts were noted.

CLAS+FROST: new generation of photoproduction experiments at Jefferson Lab

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

Eugene Pasyuk

2009-12-01

A large part of the experimental program in Hall B of the Jefferson Lab is dedicated to baryon spectroscopy. Photoproduction experiments are essential part of this program. CEBAF Large Acceptance Spectrometer (CLAS) and availability of circularly and linearly polarized tagged photon beams provide unique conditions for this type of experiments. Recent addition of the Frozen Spin Target (FROST) gives a remarkable opportunity to measure double and triple polarization observables for different pseudo-scalar meson photoproduction processes. For the first time, a complete or nearly complete experiment becomes possible and will allow model independent extraction of the reaction amplitude. An overview ofmore » the experiment and its current status is presented.« less

Motivational Interviewing Support for a Behavioral Health Internet Intervention for Drivers with Type 1 Diabetes

PubMed Central

Ingersoll, Karen S.; Banton, Thomas; Gorlin, Eugenia; Vajda, Karen; Singh, Harsimran; Peterson, Ninoska; Gonder-Frederick, Linda; Cox, Daniel J.

2015-01-01

While Internet interventions can improve health behaviors, their impact is limited by program adherence. Supporting program adherence through telephone counseling may be useful, but there have been few direct tests of the impact of support. We describe a Telephone Motivational Interviewing (MI) intervention targeting adherence to an Internet intervention for drivers with Type 1 Diabetes, DD.com, and compare completion of intervention benchmarks by those randomized to DD.com plus MI vs. DD.com only. The goal of the pre-intervention MI session was to increase the participant's motivation to complete the Internet intervention and all its assignments, while the goal of the post-treatment MI session was to plan for maintaining changes made during the intervention. Sessions were semi-structured and partially scripted to maximize consistency. MI Fidelity was coded using a standard coding system, the MITI. We examined the effects of MI support vs. no support on number of days from enrollment to program benchmarks. Results show that MI sessions were provided with good fidelity. Users who received MI support completed some program benchmarks such as Core 4 (t176 df= -2.25; p<.03) and 11 of 12 monthly driving diaries significantly sooner, but support did not significantly affect time to intervention completion (t177 df= -1.69; p<. 10) or rates of completion. These data suggest that there is little benefit to therapist guidance for Internet interventions including automated email prompts and other automated minimal supports, but that a booster MI session may enhance collection of follow-up data. PMID:25774342

Factors associated with the completion of falls prevention program.

PubMed

Batra, Anamica; Page, Timothy; Melchior, Michael; Seff, Laura; Vieira, Edgar Ramos; Palmer, Richard C

2013-12-01

Falls and fear of falling can affect independence and quality of life of older adults. Falls prevention programs may help avoiding these issues if completed. Understanding factors that are associated with completion of falls prevention programs is important. To reduce fear of falling and increase activity levels, a Matter of Balance (MOB) and un Asunto de Equilibrio (ADE) workshops were offered to 3420 older adults in South Florida between 1 October 2008 and 31 December 2011. Workshops were conducted in English or Spanish over eight, 2-hour sessions. Participants completed a demographic and a pre-post questionnaire. Factors associated with program completion were identified using logistic regression. For MOB, females were more likely to complete the program (OR = 2.076, P = 0.02). For ADE, females, moderate and extreme interference by falls in social activities were found to affect completion (OR = 2.116, P = 0.001; OR = 2.269, P = 0.003 and OR = 4.133, P = 0.008, respectively). Different factors predicted completion of both programs. Awareness of these factors can help lower the attrition rates, increase benefits and cost effectiveness of program. Future research needs to explore why certain groups had a higher likelihood of completing either program.

Exploring Scholarship and the Emergency Medicine Educator: A Workforce Study.

PubMed

Jordan, Jaime; Coates, Wendy C; Clarke, Samuel; Runde, Daniel P; Fowlkes, Emilie; Kurth, Jacqueline; Yarris, Lalena M

2017-01-01

Recent literature calls for initiatives to improve the quality of education studies and support faculty in approaching educational problems in a scholarly manner. Understanding the emergency medicine (EM) educator workforce is a crucial precursor to developing policies to support educators and promote education scholarship in EM. This study aims to illuminate the current workforce model for the academic EM educator. Program leadership at EM training programs completed an online survey consisting of multiple choice, completion, and free-response type items. We calculated and reported descriptive statistics. 112 programs participated. Mean number of core faculty/program: 16.02 ± 7.83 [14.53-17.5]. Mean number of faculty full-time equivalents (FTEs)/program dedicated to education is 6.92 ± 4.92 [5.87-7.98], including (mean FTE): Vice chair for education (0.25); director of medical education (0.13); education fellowship director (0.2); residency program director (0.83); associate residency director (0.94); assistant residency director (1.1); medical student clerkship director (0.8); assistant/associate clerkship director (0.28); simulation fellowship director (0.11); simulation director (0.42); director of faculty development (0.13). Mean number of FTEs/program for education administrative support is 2.34 ± 1.1 [2.13-2.61]. Determination of clinical hours varied; 38.75% of programs had personnel with education research expertise. Education faculty represent about 43% of the core faculty workforce. Many programs do not have the full spectrum of education leadership roles and educational faculty divide their time among multiple important academic roles. Clinical requirements vary. Many departments lack personnel with expertise in education research. This information may inform interventions to promote education scholarship.

Predicting success on the certification examinations of the American Board of Anesthesiology.

PubMed

McClintock, Joseph C; Gravlee, Glenn P

2010-01-01

Currently, residency programs lack objective predictors for passing the sequenced American Board of Anesthesiology (ABA) certification examinations on the first attempt. Our hypothesis was that performance on the ABA/American Society of Anesthesiologists In-Training Examination (ITE) and other variables can predict combined success on the ABA Part 1 and Part 2 examinations. The authors studied 2,458 subjects who took the ITE immediately after completing the first year of clinical anesthesia training and took the ABA Part 1 examination for primary certification immediately after completing residency training 2 yr later. ITE scores and other variables were used to predict which residents would complete the certification process (passing the ABA Part 1 and Part 2 examinations) in the shortest possible time after graduation. ITE scores alone accounted for most of the explained variation in the desired outcome of certification in the shortest possible time. In addition, almost half of the observed variation and most of the explained variance in ABA Part 1 scores was accounted for by ITE scores. A combined model using ITE scores, residency program accreditation cycle length, country of medical school, and gender best predicted which residents would complete the certification examinations in the shortest possible time. The principal implication of this study is that higher ABA/ American Society of Anesthesiologists ITE scores taken at the end of the first clinical anesthesia year serve as a significant and moderately strong predictor of high performance on the ABA Part 1 (written) examination, and a significant predictor of success in completing both the Part 1 and Part 2 examinations within the calendar year after the year of graduation from residency. Future studies may identify other predictors, and it would be helpful to identify factors that predict clinical performance as well.

A breast health educational program for Chinese-American women: 3- to 12-month postintervention effect.

PubMed

Lee-Lin, Frances; Nguyen, Thuan; Pedhiwala, Nisreen; Dieckmann, Nathan; Menon, Usha

2015-01-01

To test the efficacy of a culturally targeted breast cancer screening educational program in increasing mammogram completion in Chinese-American immigrant women. Randomized controlled study. Chinese communities, Portland, Oregon. From April 2010 to September 2011, 300 women were randomized to receive a theory-based, culturally targeted breast cancer screening educational intervention (n = 147) or a mammography screening brochure published by the National Cancer Institute (n = 153). The two-part intervention consisted of group teaching with targeted, theory-based messages followed by individual counseling sessions. Mammography completion, perceived susceptibility, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, perceived cultural barriers, and demographic variables. A 2 × 3 mixed logistic model was applied to determine odds ratio of mammogram completion. Behavior changed in both groups, with a total of 170 participants (56.7%) reporting a mammogram at 12 months. The logistic model indicated increased odds of mammogram completion in the intervention compared to the control group at 3, 6, and 12 months. When controlling for marital status, age, and age moved to the United States, the intervention group was nine times more likely to complete mammograms than the control group. The culturally targeted educational program significantly increased mammogram use among Chinese immigrant women. Further testing of effectiveness in larger community settings is needed. The intervention may also serve as a foundation from which to develop education to increase cancer screening among other minority subgroups.

A comparative evaluation of preservice training of kinship and nonkinship foster/adoptive families.

PubMed

Christenson, Brian; McMurtry, Jerry

2007-01-01

In 2003, Idaho selected the Foster PRIDE/ Adopt PRIDE preservice training and resource family development program. PRIDE participants (n = 228) completed a pre and posttest survey based on the PRIDE training competencies in 2004-2005. Results indicate that PRIDE is an effective training and resource family development program. Providing and evaluating foster/ adoptive parent preservice training programs can assist child welfare programs in making a positive difference in the lives of families and children involved in the child welfare system while increased cost-savings by retaining foster/adoptive families over time.

Interactive program for analysis and design problems in advanced composites technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cruse, T. A.; Swedlow, J. L.

1971-01-01

During the past year an experimental program in the fracture of advanced fiber composites has been completed. The experimental program has given direction to additional experimental and theoretical work. A synthesis program for designing low weight multifastener joints in composites is proposed, based on extensive analytical background. A number of failed joints have been thoroughly analyzed to evaluate the failure hypothesis used in the synthesis procedure. Finally, a new solution is reported for isotropic and anisotropic laminates using the boundary-integral method. The solution method offers significant savings of computer core and time for important problems.

The ASEE-University of Maryland-Catholic University-NASA summer Faculty Fellowship Program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morakis, J. C. (Compiler)

1970-01-01

University faculty members go to Goddard for a period, often weeks, during which they engage actively in research and at the same time participate in seminars related to their research. The objectives of this program are: (1) stimulation of schools to become interested in the research problems confronting Goddard; (2) creation of interest of the university faculty to continue their research after completing the formal program; (3) stimulation of people through associations with the university faculty and through participation in the program's seminars; and (4) establishment of closer ties with the universities.

The Effects of Training on the Time Components of the Left Ventricle, and Cardiac Time Components: Sedentary versus Active Individuals.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Plowman, Sharon Ann

A review of previous research was completed to determine (a) the response of the cardiac time components of the left ventricle to varying types and intensities of training programs, (b) the probable physiological explanations for these responses, and (c) the significance of the changes which did or did not occur. It was found that, at rest,…

Generalized Ultrametric Semilattices of Linear Signals

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-01-23

53–73, 1998. [8] John C. Eidson , Edward A. Lee, Slobodan Matic, Sanjit A. Seshia, and Jia Zou. Distributed real- time software for cyber-physical...Theoretical Computer Science, 16(1):5–24, 1981. 41 [37] Yang Zhao, Jie Liu, and Edward A. Lee. A programming model for time - synchronized distributed real...response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and

F-35 Risk during Department of Defense Financial Crisis

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-03-01

information is estimated to average 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering...and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other...program, an approach intended to save time and money by launching construction at an early stage and at the same time the aircraft was put through

Preferences and motivation for weight loss among knee replacement patients: implications for a patient-centered weight loss intervention.

PubMed

Pellegrini, Christine A; Ledford, Gwendolyn; Hoffman, Sara A; Chang, Rowland W; Cameron, Kenzie A

2017-08-01

Most knee replacement patients are overweight/obese, yet are commonly excluded from evidence-based weight loss programs due to mobility limitations and barriers faced around the time of surgery. The purpose of this study was to identify knee replacement patient preferences for weight loss programs and qualitatively understand previous motives for weight loss attempts as well as strategies used to facilitate behavior changes. Patients who were either scheduled to have knee replacement or had one recently completed within the last 3 months were recruited to participate. Patients completed a brief weight loss program preference questionnaire assessing preferred components of a weight loss program (i.e. self-monitoring, educational topics, program duration). Qualitative interviews were completed to identify motives for and strategies used during past weight loss attempts. All interviews were transcribed, de-identified, and analyzed using constant comparative analysis. Twenty patients (11 pre-operative and 9 post-operative) between 47 and 79 years completed the study (55% male, 90% White, and 85% with a BMI ≥25 kg/m 2 ). Patients reported a preference for a weight loss program that starts before surgery, is at least 6 months in duration, and focuses both on diet and exercise. The majority of patients preferred to have a telephone-based program and wanted to track diet and physical activity on a smartphone application. The most common motive for weight loss mentioned by patients related to physical appearance (including how clothing fit), followed by wanting to lose weight to improve knee symptoms or to prevent or delay knee replacement. Strategies that patients identified as helpful during weight loss attempts included joining a formal weight loss program, watching portion sizes, and self-monitoring their dietary intake, physical activity, or weight. This study provides a preliminary examination into the motives for weight loss, strategies utilized during past weight loss attempts, and preferences for future weight loss programs as described by knee replacement patients. These results will help guide the development and adaptation of future patient-centered weight loss programs as well as help clinicians recommend targeted weight programs based on the specific preferences of the knee replacement population.

The standard calibration instrument automation system for the atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Part 3: Program documentation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ryan, D. P.; Roth, G. S.

1982-04-01

Complete documentation of the 15 programs and 11 data files of the EPA Atomic Absorption Instrument Automation System is presented. The system incorporates the following major features: (1) multipoint calibration using first, second, or third degree regression or linear interpolation, (2) timely quality control assessments for spiked samples, duplicates, laboratory control standards, reagent blanks, and instrument check standards, (3) reagent blank subtraction, and (4) plotting of calibration curves and raw data peaks. The programs of this system are written in Data General Extended BASIC, Revision 4.3, as enhanced for multi-user, real-time data acquisition. They run in a Data General Nova 840 minicomputer under the operating system RDOS, Revision 6.2. There is a functional description, a symbol definitions table, a functional flowchart, a program listing, and a symbol cross reference table for each program. The structure of every data file is also detailed.

Selection, Interviews, and Appointments | Cancer Prevention Fellowship Program

Cancer.gov

The CPFP Scientific Education Committee reviews complete applications submitted on time. This committee is comprised of scientists from different divisions of NCI, and FDA, and a non-NCI expert in cancer prevention and control. Applicants whom the committee deems are highly qualified will be notified and invited for an interview. Interviews are held in October in Rockville, Maryland. Applicants admitted into the program will be notified of their status shortly thereafter.

Evaluation of the Department of Defense Combating Trafficking in Persons Program

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-06-16

1 6 , 2 0 1 4 Evaluation of the Department of Defense Combating Trafficking in Persons Program Report No. DODIG-2014-079 Report Documentation...Page Form ApprovedOMB No. 0704-0188 Public reporting burden for the collection of information is estimated to average 1 hour per response, including the ...time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the

Student Perspectives on the Impact of an Undergraduate Work-Integrated Learning Program on Admission and Transition to Medical School.

PubMed

McDonald, Rachel; Bobrowski, Adam; Drost, Leah; Rowbottom, Leigha; Pretti, Judene; Soliman, Hany; Chan, Stephanie; Chow, Edward

2018-05-05

Work-integrated learning (WIL) is a form of education that integrates academic and workplace study. Such programs provide students the opportunity to concurrently develop cognitive and non-cognitive competencies. The purpose of this study is to explore which experiences and skills learned in a WIL placement are useful in applying to medical school and transitioning into the first year of a Doctor of Medicine program. All individuals who worked in the Rapid Response Radiotherapy Program (RRRP; WIL placement) since 2004 and had completed at least 1 year of medical school were invited to participate. Semi-formal interviews were conducted and transcribed. A thematic analysis was completed to identify recurring concepts, and quotes were selected to represent them. Of 39 eligible individuals, 14 agreed to participate (36%). Students identified the volume of work, achieving a work-life balance, and time management as challenges in first-year medical school. Five themes emerged regarding the impact of the RRRP on applying and transitioning to medical school: time management skills, mentorship opportunities, research experience, clinical experience, and career choice. WIL placements present a unique opportunity for undergraduate students interested in pursuing medicine to acquire skills and experiences that will help them succeed in applying and transitioning to medical school.

Increased adolescent knowledge and behavior following a one-time educational intervention about tuberculosis.

PubMed

Hatzenbuehler, Lindsay A; Starke, Jeffrey R; Smith, E O'Brian; Turner, Teri L; Balmer, Doreen F; Arif, Zainab; Guzman, Francisco; Cruz, Andrea T

2017-05-01

To evaluate the impact of a tuberculosis (TB) educational intervention (EI) on change in adolescent student knowledge and participation in a TB prevention program. From 2/2013-5/2015, students from 2 high schools in Houston, TX participated. The 25-min EI discussed TB bacteriology, epidemiology, symptoms, and indications for TB testing/treatment. Students completed pre- and post-quizzes. Immediately after the EI, students were invited to participate in voluntary TB risk-factor screening, testing and treatment. At 6 months, focus groups were conducted. 895 students attended the EI. 827 students (92%) completed the EI quizzes. Knowledge improved by 12% (pre: 70%; post: 82%, p<0.001); 78% shared their TB knowledge. Following the EI, 671/827 (81%) enrolled in a TB prevention program. Focus groups indicated that the EI stimulated student learning about TB and increased their willingness to participate. A brief, one-time, TB EI is an effective method to encourage adolescents to learn about TB and motivate their uptake of TB risk-factor screening, testing and treatment. Similar EIs should accompany TB prevention programs targeting adolescents. The study's procedures could be considered for incorporation into school-based TB prevention programs to improve the identification, testing and treatment of adolescents at risk for TB. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Pilot Feasibility Study of Whole-systems Ayurvedic Medicine and Yoga Therapy for Weight Loss.

PubMed

Rioux, Jennifer; Thomson, Cynthia; Howerter, Amy

2014-01-01

To develop and test the feasibility of a whole-systems lifestyle intervention for obesity treatment based on the practices of Ayurvedic medicine/ Yoga therapy. A pre-post weight loss intervention pilot study using conventional and Ayurvedic diagnosis inclusion criteria, tailored treatment within a standardized treatment algorithm, and standardized data collection instruments for collecting Ayurvedic outcomes. A convenience sample of overweight/obese adult community members from Tucson, Arizona interested in a "holistic weight loss program" and meeting predetermined inclusion/exclusion criteria. A comprehensive diet, activity, and lifestyle modification program based on principles of Ayurvedic medicine/yoga therapy with significant self-monitoring of lifestyle behaviors. The 3-month program was designed to change eating and activity patterns and to improve self-efficacy, quality of life, well-being, vitality, and self-awareness around food choices, stress management, and barriers to weight loss. Changes in body weight, body mass index; body fat percentage, fat/lean mass, waist/hip circumference and ratio, and blood pressure. Diet and exercise self-efficacy scales; perceived stress scale; visual analog scales (VAS) of energy, appetite, stress, quality of life, well-being, and program satisfaction at all time points. Twenty-two adults attended an in-person Ayurvedic screening; 17 initiated the intervention, and 12 completed the 3-month intervention. Twelve completed follow-up at 6 months and 11 completed follow-up at 9 months. Mean weight loss at 3 months was 3.54 kg (SD 4.76); 6 months: 4.63 kg, (SD 6.23) and 9 months: 5.9 kg (SD 8.52). Self-report of program satisfaction was more than 90% at all time points. An Ayurveda-/yoga-based lifestyle modification program is an acceptable and feasible approach to weight management. Data collection, including self-monitoring and conventional and Ayurvedic outcomes, did not unduly burden participants, with attrition similar to that of other weight loss studies.

The Milestones Passport: A Learner-Centered Application of the Milestone Framework to Prompt Real-Time Feedback in the Emergency Department

PubMed Central

Yarris, Lalena M.; Jones, David; Kornegay, Joshua G.; Hansen, Matthew

2014-01-01

Background In July 2013, emergency medicine residency programs implemented the Milestone assessment as part of the Next Accreditation System. Objective We hypothesized that applying the Milestone framework to real-time feedback in the emergency department (ED) could affect current feedback processes and culture. We describe the development and implementation of a Milestone-based, learner-centered intervention designed to prompt real-time feedback in the ED. Methods We developed and implemented the Milestones Passport, a feedback intervention incorporating subcompetencies, in our residency program in July 2013. Our primary outcomes were feasibility, including faculty and staff time and costs, number of documented feedback encounters in the first 2 months of implementation, and user-reported time required to complete the intervention. We also assessed learner and faculty acceptability. Results Development and implementation of the Milestones Passport required 10 hours of program coordinator time, 120 hours of software developer time, and 20 hours of faculty time. Twenty-eight residents and 34 faculty members generated 257 Milestones Passport feedback encounters. Most residents and faculty reported that the encounters required fewer than 5 minutes to complete, and 48% (12 of 25) of the residents and 68% (19 of 28) of faculty reported satisfaction with the Milestones Passport intervention. Faculty satisfaction with overall feedback in the ED improved after the intervention (93% versus 54%, P  =  .003), whereas resident satisfaction with feedback did not change significantly. Conclusions The Milestones Passport feedback intervention was feasible and acceptable to users; however, learner satisfaction with the Milestone assessment in the ED was modest. PMID:26279784

Characteristics of drug-abusing women with children in residential treatment: a preliminary evaluation of program retention and treatment completion.

PubMed

Simons, Lori

2008-01-01

An ex post facto study was conducted to investigate treatment outcomes for 80 women and 168 children admitted into a residential substance-abuse treatment program. The results indicated childhood emotional neglect is a barrier for remaining in and completing treatment for African-American women with comorbid psychological disorders but not for those with crack cocaine dependent disorders. African-American women with comorbid psychological disorders were also three times more likely to dropout of treatment. In addition, there were relatively few differences for between drug-exposed and nonexposed children. However, the results indicated that children of substance-abusing women who completed treatment were more likely to have behavioral problems, to receive early intervention services, and to have mothers as legal guardians by the end of treatment. Implications for gender-specific interventions for African-American women and their children in residential treatment are discussed.

36 CFR 61.4 - State programs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... consider the nomination without a face-to-face meeting. (4) The SHPO may carry out all or any part of his... meet as often as is necessary to complete its work in a timely fashion but no less often than once a...

36 CFR 61.4 - State programs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... consider the nomination without a face-to-face meeting. (4) The SHPO may carry out all or any part of his... meet as often as is necessary to complete its work in a timely fashion but no less often than once a...

Nationwide Interdisciplinary E-Consultation on Transgender Care in the Veterans Health Administration.

PubMed

Shipherd, Jillian C; Kauth, Michael R; Matza, Alexis

2016-12-01

Veteran's Health Administration (VHA) requires the provision of quality transgender care for the relatively large number of transgender veterans using VHA services. The Office of Patient Care Services has taken a multimethod approach to improving provider knowledge and skill for transgender veteran care. However, unique patient-specific questions can arise. Thus, VHA implemented a 3-year feasibility program to determine if nationwide interdisciplinary e-consultation can offer veteran-specific consultation to providers who treat transgender veterans in VHA. Launch of this program is described along with use to date, types of questions submitted by providers, and length of time to complete a response in the veteran's electronic medical record. In 17 months, the program responded to 303 e-consults, with consultation provided on the care of 230 unique veterans. Nationwide coverage was achieved 1 year after the launch of the program. Common consult questions have been about medications, including hormones (n = 125); primary care concerns (n = 97); mental health evaluations (n = 63); and psychotherapy (n = 18). Consistent with the interdisciplinary model, multiple disciplines typically responded to each consult (x = 2.27). Average time to completion of a consult was 5.9 calendar days (range = 2.4-7.7 days). VHA has established a nationwide interdisciplinary e-consultation program. Additional outreach about the program will be needed if funding is continued. E-consultation on transgender health within VHA is feasible and complements the suite of trainings offered within VHA. Other healthcare organizations may benefit from a similar program.

Dynamic visualization techniques for high consequence software

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

Pollock, G.M.

1998-02-01

This report documents a prototype tool developed to investigate the use of visualization and virtual reality technologies for improving software surety confidence. The tool is utilized within the execution phase of the software life cycle. It provides a capability to monitor an executing program against prespecified requirements constraints provided in a program written in the requirements specification language SAGE. The resulting Software Attribute Visual Analysis Tool (SAVAnT) also provides a technique to assess the completeness of a software specification. The prototype tool is described along with the requirements constraint language after a brief literature review is presented. Examples of howmore » the tool can be used are also presented. In conclusion, the most significant advantage of this tool is to provide a first step in evaluating specification completeness, and to provide a more productive method for program comprehension and debugging. The expected payoff is increased software surety confidence, increased program comprehension, and reduced development and debugging time.« less

Real-time in-flight thrust calculation on a digital electronic engine control-equipped F100 engine in an F-15 airplane

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ray, R. J.; Myers, L. P.

1984-01-01

Computer algorithms which calculate in-flight engine and aircraft performance real-time are discussed. The first step was completed with the implementation of a real-time thrust calculation program on a digital electronic engine control (DEEC) equiped F100 engine in an F-15 aircraft. The in-flight thrust modifications that allow calculations to be performed in real-time, to compare results to predictions, are presented.

The Vocational Training FacilityAn Interactive Learning Program to Return Persons With Physical Disabilities to Employment.

PubMed

Hammel, J M; Van Der Loos, H F; Lepage, P; Burgar, C; Perkash, I; Shafer, D; Topp, E; Lees, D

1994-01-01

This paper describes the results of the program-development phase of the Vocational Training Facility (VTF) taking place at the Palo Alto Veterans Affairs Medical Center Rehabilitation Research and Development Center. The VTF staff has developed a self-paced, multimedia curriculum comprised of adapted training packages, interactive videos, and additional training and testing materials designed to teach entry-level desktop publishing and reasonable accommodation skills to individuals with spinal cord injuries. The curriculum is taught via the Macintosh™ computer to allow independent, "hands-off" access to training materials. Each student is given an integrated workstation that is equipped with the Desktop Vocational Assistant Robot (De VAR); a set of low-and high-technology assistive hardware, software, and devices; and ergonomic furniture and adaptations customized to fit individual learning and access needs. Each student completes a 12-week, full-time training program followed by a 3-month internship with a local corporate sponsor. This paper summarizes the evaluation results of the VTF program by the first nine students, with spinal cord injuries ranging paraplegia to high-level quadriplegia, who have completed the program.

Formative evaluation of a multimedia self-administered computerized hearing loss prevention program.

PubMed

Saunders, Gabrielle H; Vachhani, Jay J; Galvez, Gino; Griest, Susan E

2015-04-01

To determine which features make a computer-based hearing health education intervention effective, easy to use, and enjoyable. The study examined which features of a multimedia self-administered computerized hearing loss prevention program, developed by the National Center for Rehabilitative Auditory Research (referred to as the NCRAR-HLPP), users liked and disliked, and the reasons why. A formative evaluation was conducted in which participants completed a questionnaire to assess knowledge and attitudes towards hearing and hearing loss prevention, used the NCRAR-HLPP, completed the questionnaire for a second time, and were interviewed to learn their opinions about the NCRAR-HLPP. Twenty-five male and four female Veterans recruited from the Portland VA Medical Center who were aged between 25 and 65 years. Participants reported that using the NCRAR-HLPP was a positive experience. Ease of use, multimedia content, personal relevance, and use of emotion were positive features of the program. The questionnaire showed increased knowledge and improved attitude scores following use of the program. This formative evaluation showed changes designed to target user preferences and improve user instructions will be made in future versions of the program.

[Part-time residency training in Israel].

PubMed

Fishbain, Dana; Levi, Baruch; Borow, Malke; Ashkenazi, Shai; Lindner, Arie

2012-08-01

Full-time work has long been perceived as a cornerstone of medical residency, the consensus being that a resident must apply the bulk of his time and attention to his professional training. Demographic and cultural changes that have taken place over the last several years, specifically the rise in the number of female doctors and the importance of leisure time to the younger generation, have intensified the need to find new and innovative ways to deal with the plight of the resident population. One idea, already in effect in many Western countries, is the institution of part-time residency programs. The possibility of fulfilling residency requirements on a part-time basis is intended to assist medical residents in integrating their professional development with their personal and family life, without compromising the quality of their training. A number of research studies conducted over the last several years in countries that allow part-time residency, among them the United States, England and Switzerland, aimed to examine the quality of part-time training. The various studies evinced a high level of satisfaction from the program both by the residents themselves and their supervisors, and in many aspects those doing residency part-time received higher appraisals than their full-time colleagues. Some of the residents polled noted that they would have totally foregone the practice of medicine had there not been an option to complete residency part-time. In light of the experience throughout the world and the changing landscape in Israel, the Scientific Council of the Israeli Medical Association decided to examine the issue and its various aspects, and weighed all the considerations in favor and against part-time residency. Recently, the Scientific Council approved the launch of a pilot program to allow part-time residency in several fields that were carefully selected according to specific criteria. Once the Ministry of Health completes the LegisLation process, part-time residency will officially begin in Israel.

Methodology and outcomes of a family medicine research fellowship.

PubMed

Cronholm, Peter F; Straton, Joseph B; Bowman, Marjorie A

2009-08-01

There has not been a strong tradition of training researchers to provide the great amount of new evidence needed for the practice of family medicine. Few models for creating successful family medicine researchers have been presented in the literature. The authors report on the methodology and outcomes of a faculty development research fellowship in the University of Pennsylvania's Department of Family Medicine and Community Health. The fellowship focuses on the two domains-intensive research training and academic career development-and frames them with coursework in a content-appropriate master's degree program and clinical practice in an underserved community. Fifteen fellows have completed the program, which began in 1997. Most fellows' research work has been related to primary care and health disparities. Program completers have been the principal investigators on 39 funded studies and coinvestigators on 24 funded studies. They have, at the time this article was written, described their work in 236 publications, 114 of them peer reviewed. All but one program completer hold academic faculty positions, and 12 practice in underserved areas. In a research-intense institution, the fellowship program successfully trained family physicians to be independent clinical researchers and leaders who have substantially contributed to the national effort to mitigate health disparities through practice and research. The authors suggest that the outcomes strongly support the development of similar training opportunities in family medicine departments in other resource- and research-rich institutions.

Synopsis of a computer program designed to interface a personal computer with the fast data acquisition system of a time-of-flight mass spectrometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bechtel, R. D.; Mateos, M. A.; Lincoln, K. A.

1988-01-01

Briefly described are the essential features of a computer program designed to interface a personal computer with the fast, digital data acquisition system of a time-of-flight mass spectrometer. The instrumentation was developed to provide a time-resolved analysis of individual vapor pulses produced by the incidence of a pulsed laser beam on an ablative material. The high repetition rate spectrometer coupled to a fast transient recorder captures complete mass spectra every 20 to 35 microsecs, thereby providing the time resolution needed for the study of this sort of transient event. The program enables the computer to record the large amount of data generated by the system in short time intervals, and it provides the operator the immediate option of presenting the spectral data in several different formats. Furthermore, the system does this with a high degree of automation, including the tasks of mass labeling the spectra and logging pertinent instrumental parameters.

76 FR 23911 - Fisheries of the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and South Atlantic; Reef Fish Fishery of the Gulf of...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-04-29

... maintenance window for the Gulf individual fishing quota (IFQ) programs, and removing obsolete codified text..., etc.), extends the IFQ maintenance window an additional 8 hours to allow for more time to conduct end... maintenance window. All electronic IFQ transactions must be completed by December 31 at 6 p.m. eastern time...

Factors influencing publication of scientific articles derived from masters theses in public health.

PubMed

Hollmann, Malen; Borrell, Carme; Garin, Olatz; Fernández, Esteve; Alonso, Jordi

2015-05-01

To evaluate theses of a Masters program in Public Health (MPH), in terms of the students' and theses' characteristics that influence publication of the thesis as a scientific article. Longitudinal study of students who successfully completed the MPH at Universitat Pompeu Fabra and Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (Spain) from 2006 to 2010. Participants completed an electronic survey and additional data were gathered from university files. 162 students participated in the study (83 % response rate). 60.5 % had already published an article derived from their thesis at the time of the study or were in process of publishing it. The likelihood of publishing in a peer-reviewed journal was greater among women (aRR = 1.41), among those who had a bachelor's degree in sciences other than health (aRR = 1.40), had completed the MPH on time (aRR = 2.10), had enrolled in a doctoral program after the MPH (aRR = 1.44) or had a masters thesis score of ≥7 (aRR = 1.61). The majority of MPH students published their thesis in a peer-reviewed journal. The strongest predictors of successful publication were related to academic performance.

Problems with detection of intakes of very insoluble plutonium

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

Bihl, D.E.; Lynch, T.P.; Carbaugh, E.H.

1988-08-01

Several human cases involving inhalation of plutonium oxide at Hanford have shown clearance half-times from the lung that are much longer than those recommended for class Y material in Publication 30 of the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP 1979). Because the material is much more tenaciously retained in the lung than ''normal'' class Y material, the Hanford Internal Dosimetry Program has been referring to it as ''super'' class Y. This material poses some major challenges with regard to the design and operation of bioassay monitoring programs. Because of the relative completeness of their data, 10 cases that show lungmore » retention half-times in excess of 5000 days are of particular interest. However, the bioassay data for these cases span the past 30 years and involve various sampling methods and detection limits in vogue at the time. Furthermore, the data were collected for the purpose of determining compliance with regulations in place at the time, rather than for research or modeling of clearance pathways and rates. So from a modeling perspective, the data have gaps, but are sufficiently complete to be convincing. 3 refs., 2 figs., 2 tabs.« less

Integrating Health Education in Core Curriculum Classrooms: Successes, Challenges, and Implications for Urban Middle Schools.

PubMed

Rajan, Sonali; Roberts, Katherine J; Guerra, Laura; Pirsch, Moira; Morrell, Ernest

2017-12-01

School-based health education efforts can positively affect health behaviors and learning outcomes; however, there is limited available time during the school day for separate health education classes. The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility and sustainability of implementing a classroom-based health education program that integrates skill development with health learning. A wait-list control study design was conducted among 168 6th graders in 2 urban schools. Data on program implementation, feasibility, and health outcomes were collected from students at 3 time points and from 5 teachers across the implementation of the 10-week program. There were barriers to implementation, including time limitations, unexpected school-wide disruptions, and variations in student reading ability and teacher preparedness. However, analyses revealed there were significant increases in self-efficacy regarding fruit and vegetable consumption and outcome expectations following program implementation, which were also sustained post-program implementation. Despite inconsistent implementation in the wait-list control school, small gains were also noted following the completion of the program. Integrating health education efforts within core curricula classes can lead to favorable outcomes. However, implementation barriers must be actively addressed by schools and program developers to improve program fidelity and maximize the sustainability of program gains. © 2017, American School Health Association.

Knowledge attainment, perceptions, and professionalism in participants completing the didactic phase of an Army reserve critical care nursing residency program.

PubMed

Wynd, C A; Gotschall, W

2000-04-01

Combat hospitals in today's Army demand nurses with critical care nursing "8A" additional skills identifiers. The intensity of future wars and operations other than war, together with highly technological weapons, forecast a large number of casualties evacuated rapidly from combat with wounds that require skillful and intensive nursing care. Many of the critical care nurses providing future care are positioned in the reserve components and require creative approaches to education and training concentrated into one weekend per month. An Army Reserve critical care nursing residency program was designed in one midwestern combat support hospital. The didactic course, phase I, was evaluated for effectiveness in achieving outcomes of increased knowledge attainment, enhanced perceptions of critical care nursing, and higher degrees of professionalism. Twenty-seven registered nurses completed the course, and 30 nurses from the same hospital served as controls. A repeated-measures analysis examined outcomes before intervention (time 1), at course completion (time 2), and at a 6-month follow-up (time 3). The course was effective at increasing scores on knowledge attainment and perceptions of critical care nursing; however; professionalism scores were initially high and remained so throughout the study. This research extends information about critical care nursing education and evaluates a training mechanism for meeting the unique requirements and time constraints of nurses in the reserve components who need to provide a high level of skill to soldiers in combat.

Digital program for solving the linear stochastic optimal control and estimation problem

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Geyser, L. C.; Lehtinen, B.

1975-01-01

A computer program is described which solves the linear stochastic optimal control and estimation (LSOCE) problem by using a time-domain formulation. The LSOCE problem is defined as that of designing controls for a linear time-invariant system which is disturbed by white noise in such a way as to minimize a performance index which is quadratic in state and control variables. The LSOCE problem and solution are outlined; brief descriptions are given of the solution algorithms, and complete descriptions of each subroutine, including usage information and digital listings, are provided. A test case is included, as well as information on the IBM 7090-7094 DCS time and storage requirements.

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

O`Fallon, J.

The author looks in a broad perspective at funding for high energy physics programs over the period from the 1960`s to today. He tries to look at this in the large perspective, nationally and internationally, and then gives more detailed information for different laboratories and programs. In general funding peaked in the 1960`s, and has been going downward since then. This is not only in terms of adjusted dollars, but in terms of the sense in which the programs are funded on realistic time scales to allow them to come to a rapid completion.

MIUS integration and subsystems test program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Beckham, W. S., Jr.; Shows, G. C.; Redding, T. E.; Wadle, R. C.; Keough, M. B.; Poradek, J. C.

1976-01-01

The MIUS Integration and Subsystems Test (MIST) facility at the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center was completed and ready in May 1974 for conducting specific tests in direct support of the Modular Integrated Utility System (MIUS). A series of subsystems and integrated tests was conducted since that time, culminating in a series of 24-hour dynamic tests to further demonstrate the capabilities of the MIUS Program concepts to meet typical utility load profiles for a residential area. Results of the MIST Program are presented which achieved demonstrated plant thermal efficiencies ranging from 57 to 65 percent.

A model summer program for handicapped college students

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nissen, Anne B.

1989-01-01

During the summer of 1988, the Goddard Space Flight Center was the site of a new NASA project called A Model Summer Program for Handicapped College Students that was directed by Gallaudet University. The project's aim was to identify eight severely physically disabled college students (four from Gallaudet University and four from local historically black colleges and universities (HBCU's)) majoring in technical fields and to assign them technical projects related to aerospace which they would complete under the guidance of mentors who were full time employees of Goddard. A description of the program is presented.

Hanford Site Environmental Restoration Program 1994 fiscal year work plan. Work breakdown structure 2.0: Revision 1

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

Not Available

Site Management System (SMS) guidance requires a Fiscal Year Work Plan (FYWP) to be prepared for the Environmental Restoration (ER) Mission Area and all related programs. This revision is a complete update to cover the FY 1994 time period. This document describes the overall ER Missions Area and provides FYWP appendices for each of the following five program areas: Remedial Action (RA); Decontamination and Decommissioning (D&D); Project Management and Support (PM&S); Surveillance and Maintenance (S&M); and Disposal Facilities (DF).

Lighting the way: photonics leaders II (PL2) optics and photonics teacher professional development

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gilchrist, Pamela O.; Hilliard-Clark, Joyce; Bowles, Tuere; Carpenter, Eric

2014-07-01

A sample group of nineteen teachers completed the second phase of the Photonics Leaders II Optics and Photonics professional development program. Participants took a basic Physics content knowledge test that was designed by a Professor of Physics. The test was completed before the teachers participated in the program and at the end of the program to gather data for statistical inquiry. Statistical studies on pre-test and post-test data indicated significant gains in physics content knowledge over time, and that instructors teaching at the middle school level or only teaching one subject area scored significantly lower during the pretest. Reports from previous participants are summarized to disseminate the percentage of teachers who have incorporated at least one workshop activity and the kind of activity performed. The concerns and limitations reported by previous participants are reviewed as well.

Effect of a 6-week strengthening program on shoulder and scapular-stabilizer strength and scapular kinematics in division I collegiate swimmers.

PubMed

Hibberd, Elizabeth E; Oyama, Saki; Spang, Jeffrey T; Prentice, William; Myers, Joseph B

2012-08-01

Shoulder injuries are common in swimmers because of the demands of the sport. Muscle imbalances frequently exist due to the biomechanics of the sport, which predispose swimmers to injury. To date, an effective shoulder-injury-prevention program for competitive swimmers has not been established. To assess the effectiveness of a 6-wk strengthening and stretching intervention program on improving glenohumeral and scapular muscle strength and scapular kinematics in collegiate swimmers. Randomized control trial. University biomechanics research laboratory. Forty-four Division I collegiate swimmers. The intervention program was completed 3 times per week for 6 wk. The program included strengthening exercises completed using resistance tubing-scapular retraction (Ts), scapular retraction with upward rotation (Ys), scapular retraction with downward rotation (Ws), shoulder flexion, low rows, throwing acceleration and deceleration, scapular punches, shoulder internal rotation at 90° abduction, and external rotation at 90° abduction-and 2 stretching exercises: corner stretch and sleeper stretch. Scapular kinematics and glenohumeral and scapular muscle strength assessed preintervention and postintervention. There were no significant between-groups differences in strength variables at pre/post tests, although shoulder-extension and internal-rotation strength significantly increased in all subjects regardless of group assignment. Scapular kinematic data revealed increased scapular internal rotation, protraction, and elevation in all subjects at posttesting but no significant effect of group on the individual kinematic variables. The current strengthening and stretching program was not effective in altering strength and scapular kinematic variables but may serve as a framework for future programs. Adding more stretching exercises, eliminating exercises that overlap with weight-room training and swim training, and timing of implementation may yield a more beneficial program for collegiate swimmers.

Effect of a sport education program on motivation for physical education and leisure-time physical activity.

PubMed

Wallhead, Tristan L; Garn, Alex C; Vidoni, Carla

2014-12-01

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of a high school sport education curriculum program on students' motivation for physical education and leisure-time physical activity. Participants were 568 high school students enrolled in the required physical education programs at 2 schools, 1 taught using sport education and the 2nd using a multiactivity model of instruction. A motivational profile survey, which included student psychological need satisfaction, autonomous motives, perceived effort and enjoyment in physical education, and physical activity intention and behavior, was completed by all participants prior to and at the end of the 2-year physical education program. Mixed-model analysis of variance tests revealed that the students in the sport education program reported greater increases in perceived effort and enjoyment of the program compared with the students taught within the multiactivity model. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses showed that these positive affective outcomes were facilitated by the development of more autonomous forms of motivation. RESULTS revealed limited support for the direct transfer of motivation from a sport education program to increases in leisure-time physical activity behavior. Sport education facilitates more internalized forms of student motivation in required physical education programs, but without the provision of an appropriately designed extracurricular outlet, the potential of transfer to leisure-time physical activity may not be achieved.

Stakeholders’ Interest in and Challenges to Implementing Farm-to-School Programs, Douglas County, Nebraska, 2010–2011

PubMed Central

Smith, Teresa M.; Carpenter, Leah R.; Chapman, Mary; Balluff, Mary; Yaroch, Amy L.

2013-01-01

Introduction Schools are uniquely positioned to influence the dietary habits of children, and farm-to-school programs can increase fruit and vegetable consumption among school-aged children. We assessed the feasibility of, interest in, and barriers to implementing farm-to-school activities in 7 school districts in Douglas County, Nebraska. Methods We used a preassessment and postassessment survey to obtain data from 3 stakeholder groups: school food service directors, local food producers, and food distributors. We had a full-time farm-to-school coordinator who was able to engage multiple stakeholders and oversee the development and dissemination of a toolkit. We used descriptive statistics to make comparisons. Results Seven food service directors, 5 distributors identified by the food service directors, and 57 local producers (9 completed only the preassessment survey, 16 completed only the postassessment survey, and 32 completed both) completed various components of the assessment. Interest in pursuing farm-to-school activities to incorporate more local foods in the school lunch program increased during the 2-year project; mean interest in purchasing local foods by food service directors for their districts increased from 4.4 to 4.7 (on a scale of 1 to 5). Conclusion Implementing farm-to-school programming in Douglas County, Nebraska, is feasible, although food safety and distribution is a main concern among food service directors. Additional research on feasibility, infrastructure, and education is recommended. PMID:24355103

40 CFR 70.4 - State program submittals and transition.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... determine insignificant activities or emission levels for purposes of determining complete applications... any permit application, compliance plan, permit, and monitoring and compliance, certification report... take final action on an application for a permit, permit renewal, or permit revision within the time...

40 CFR 70.4 - State program submittals and transition.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... determine insignificant activities or emission levels for purposes of determining complete applications... any permit application, compliance plan, permit, and monitoring and compliance, certification report... take final action on an application for a permit, permit renewal, or permit revision within the time...

40 CFR 70.4 - State program submittals and transition.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... determine insignificant activities or emission levels for purposes of determining complete applications... any permit application, compliance plan, permit, and monitoring and compliance, certification report... take final action on an application for a permit, permit renewal, or permit revision within the time...

14 CFR 121.7 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... those that apply to aircraft rescue and firefighting service, or (2) A military airport that is active and operational. ETOPS Alternate Airport means an adequate airport listed in the certificate holder's... completed the certificate holder's ETOPS training program. Maximum Diversion Time means, for the purposes of...

14 CFR 121.7 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... those that apply to aircraft rescue and firefighting service, or (2) A military airport that is active and operational. ETOPS Alternate Airport means an adequate airport listed in the certificate holder's... completed the certificate holder's ETOPS training program. Maximum Diversion Time means, for the purposes of...

14 CFR 121.7 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... those that apply to aircraft rescue and firefighting service, or (2) A military airport that is active and operational. ETOPS Alternate Airport means an adequate airport listed in the certificate holder's... completed the certificate holder's ETOPS training program. Maximum Diversion Time means, for the purposes of...

14 CFR 121.7 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... those that apply to aircraft rescue and firefighting service, or (2) A military airport that is active and operational. ETOPS Alternate Airport means an adequate airport listed in the certificate holder's... completed the certificate holder's ETOPS training program. Maximum Diversion Time means, for the purposes of...

14 CFR 121.7 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... those that apply to aircraft rescue and firefighting service, or (2) A military airport that is active and operational. ETOPS Alternate Airport means an adequate airport listed in the certificate holder's... completed the certificate holder's ETOPS training program. Maximum Diversion Time means, for the purposes of...

20 CFR 638.810 - Reporting requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

....810 Employees' Benefits EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF LABOR JOB CORPS PROGRAM UNDER TITLE IV-B OF THE JOB TRAINING PARTNERSHIP ACT Administrative Provisions § 638.810 Reporting requirements. The Job Corps Director shall establish procedures to ensure timely and complete reporting of such...

5 CFR 1600.33 - Treatment accorded transferred funds.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

...'s contribution allocation on file at the time the transfer is completed. (c) Funds transferred to... 5 Administrative Personnel 3 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Treatment accorded transferred funds... CONTRIBUTION ELECTIONS, CONTRIBUTION ALLOCATIONS, AND AUTOMATIC ENROLLMENT PROGRAM Transfers From Other...

5 CFR 1600.32 - Treatment accorded transferred funds.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

...'s contribution allocation on file at the time the transfer is completed. (c) Funds transferred to... 5 Administrative Personnel 3 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Treatment accorded transferred funds... CONTRIBUTION ELECTIONS, CONTRIBUTION ALLOCATIONS, AND AUTOMATIC ENROLLMENT PROGRAM Transfers From Other...

5 CFR 1600.33 - Treatment accorded transferred funds.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

...'s contribution allocation on file at the time the transfer is completed. (c) Funds transferred to... 5 Administrative Personnel 3 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Treatment accorded transferred funds... CONTRIBUTION ELECTIONS, CONTRIBUTION ALLOCATIONS, AND AUTOMATIC ENROLLMENT PROGRAM Transfers From Other...

5 CFR 1600.32 - Treatment accorded transferred funds.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

...'s contribution allocation on file at the time the transfer is completed. (c) Funds transferred to... 5 Administrative Personnel 3 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Treatment accorded transferred funds... CONTRIBUTION ELECTIONS, CONTRIBUTION ALLOCATIONS, AND AUTOMATIC ENROLLMENT PROGRAM Transfers From Other...

A program for performing exact quantum dynamics calculations using cylindrical polar coordinates: A nanotube application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Skouteris, Dimitris; Gervasi, Osvaldo; Laganà, Antonio

2009-03-01

A program that uses the time-dependent wavepacket method to study the motion of structureless particles in a force field of quasi-cylindrical symmetry is presented here. The program utilises cylindrical polar coordinates to express the wavepacket, which is subsequently propagated using a Chebyshev expansion of the Schrödinger propagator. Time-dependent exit flux as well as energy-dependent S matrix elements can be obtained for all states of the particle (describing its angular momentum component along the nanotube axis and the excitation of the radial degree of freedom in the cylinder). The program has been used to study the motion of an H atom across a carbon nanotube. Program summaryProgram title: CYLWAVE Catalogue identifier: AECL_v1_0 Program summary URL:http://cpc.cs.qub.ac.uk/summaries/AECL_v1_0.html Program obtainable from: CPC Program Library, Queen's University, Belfast, N. Ireland Licensing provisions: Standard CPC licence, http://cpc.cs.qub.ac.uk/licence/licence.html No. of lines in distributed program, including test data, etc.: 3673 No. of bytes in distributed program, including test data, etc.: 35 237 Distribution format: tar.gz Programming language: Fortran 77 Computer: RISC workstations Operating system: UNIX RAM: 120 MBytes Classification: 16.7, 16.10 External routines: SUNSOFT performance library (not essential) TFFT2D.F (Temperton Fast Fourier Transform), BESSJ.F (from Numerical Recipes, for the calculation of Bessel functions) (included in the distribution file). Nature of problem: Time evolution of the state of a structureless particle in a quasicylindrical potential. Solution method: Time dependent wavepacket propagation. Running time: 50000 secs. The test run supplied with the distribution takes about 10 minutes to complete.

Training the next generation of research mentors: the University of California, San Francisco, Clinical & Translational Science Institute Mentor Development Program.

PubMed

Feldman, Mitchell D; Huang, Laurence; Guglielmo, B Joseph; Jordan, Richard; Kahn, James; Creasman, Jennifer M; Wiener-Kronish, Jeanine P; Lee, Kathryn A; Tehrani, Ariane; Yaffe, Kristine; Brown, Jeanette S

2009-06-01

Mentoring is a critical component of career development and success for clinical translational science research faculty. Yet few programs train faculty in mentoring skills. We describe outcomes from the first two faculty cohorts who completed a Mentor Development Program (MDP) at UCSF. Eligibility includes having dedicated research time, expertise in a scientific area and a desire to be a lead research mentor. A post-MDP survey measured the program's impact on enhancement of five key mentoring skills, change in the Mentors-in-Training (MIT) self-rated importance of being a mentor to their career satisfaction, and overall confidence in their mentoring skills. Since 2007, 29 MITs participated in and 26 completed the MDP. Only 15% of the MITs reported any previous mentor training. Overall, 96% of MITs felt that participation in the MDP helped them to become better mentors. A majority reported a significant increase in confidence in mentoring skills and most reported an increased understanding of important mentoring issues at UCSF. MITs reported increased confidence in overall and specific mentoring skills after completion of the MDP. The MDP can serve as a model for other institutions to develop the next generation of clinical-translational research mentors.

Energy Expenditure During Extravehicular Activity Through Apollo

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Paul, Heather L.

2012-01-01

Monitoring crew health during manned space missions has always been an important factor to ensure that the astronauts can complete the missions successfully and within safe physiological limits. The necessity of real-time metabolic rate monitoring during extravehicular activities (EVAs) came into question during the Gemini missions, when the energy expenditure required to complete EVA tasks exceeded the life support capabilities for cooling and humidity control and, as a result, crew members ended the EVAs fatigued and overworked. This paper discusses the importance of real-time monitoring of metabolic rate during EVAs, and provides a historical look at energy expenditure during EVAs through the Apollo Program.

Preparing students for graduate study: an eLearning approach.

PubMed

Pintz, Christine; Posey, Laurie

2013-07-01

This paper describes the development and preliminary evaluation of an eLearning program intended to provide incoming nursing students with the basic knowledge, skills and abilities needed to succeed in graduate-level, online coursework. Using Mayer's principles (2008) for the effective design of multimedia instruction, an open-access, self-directed, online program was developed. The Graduate School Boot Camp includes five online modules focused on learning strategies and time management, academic writing, technology, research, and library skills. To motivate and engage learners, the program integrates a fun, graphical sports theme with audiovisual presentations, examples, demonstrations and practice exercises. Learners begin with a self-assessment based on the Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire or MSLQ (Pintrich et al., 1993). To assess change in knowledge levels before and after completing the program, learners take a pre-test and post-test. Preliminary findings indicate that the students found the information relevant and useful. They enjoyed the self-paced, multimedia format, and liked the option to return to specific content later. This innovative program offers a way to prepare students proactively, and may prove useful in identifying students at risk and connecting them with the appropriate resources to facilitate successful program completion. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Maternity leave: existing policies in obstetrics and gynecology residency programs.

PubMed

Davis, J L; Baillie, S; Hodgson, C S; Vontver, L; Platt, L D

2001-12-01

To survey program directors in obstetrics and gynecology regarding maternity leave and to determine how programs are dealing with maternity leave coverage. Questionnaires regarding impact and policy on maternity leave were mailed to accredited obstetrics and gynecology residency programs. A total of 188 of 274 (69%) questionnaires were returned completed. Respectively, 80% and 69% of respondents indicated that they have a formal maternity (maximum mean 8.7 weeks) and paternity (mean 5.27 days) leave policy. Approximately 75% of programs require residents to make up time if their leave exceeds 8 weeks during the first 3 years. Eighty-five percent of programs require residents to make up time if their leave exceeds 6 weeks during the fourth year. Ninety-three percent of programs require residents to make up time if their leave exceeds 20 weeks over the 4 years. Seventy-seven percent of respondents have other residents in their program cover for the absent resident. Thirty-seven percent of programs have schedules flexible enough to allow rearrangement so that some rotations go uncovered. Eighty-three percent of programs surveyed stated that maternity leave has a somewhat to very significant impact on the residents' schedules. Most residency programs have written maternity/paternity leave policies. A more flexible curriculum may help to accommodate the residents on leave without overburdening the residents who are left to cover.

NASA's Microgravity Science Research Program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1996-01-01

The ongoing challenge faced by NASA's Microgravity Science Research Program is to work with the scientific and engineering communities to secure the maximum return from our Nation's investments by: assuring that the best possible science emerges from the science community for microgravity investigations; ensuring the maximum scientific return from each investigation in the most timely and cost-effective manner; and enhancing the distribution of data and applications of results acquired through completed investigations to maximize their benefits.

Navy Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) Program: Background, Issues, and Options for Congress

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-03-18

response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources , gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and...Program Congressional Research Service 3 Figure 1. Lockheed LCS Design (Top) and General Dynamics LCS Design (Bottom) Source : Source : U.S. Navy...which are based on FY 2010 funding controls.” ( Source : Navy Office of Legislative Affairs e-mail to CRS, March 18, 2011.) In other words, the Navy

Strategies for Improving Out-of-School Programs in Rural Communities. Research-to-Results Brief. Publication #2008-18

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Child Trends, 2008

2008-01-01

Young people who live in rural areas are less likely to finish high school and to complete college than their urban and suburban peers. These adolescents are also more likely to use drugs and alcohol: rural adolescents between the ages of 12 and 17 have the highest levels of drug use in this age group. Out-of-school-time programs in rural areas…

Increasing Colonoscopy Screening in Disparate Populations: Results From an Evaluation of Patient Navigation in the New Hampshire Colorectal Cancer Screening Program

PubMed Central

Rice, Ketra; Gressard, Lindsay; DeGroff, Amy; Gersten, Joanne; Robie, Janene; Leadbetter, Steven; Glover-Kudon, Rebecca; Butterly, Lynn

2018-01-01

BACKGROUND To investigate uniformly successful results from a statewide program of patient navigation (PN) for colonoscopy, this comparison study evaluated the effectiveness of the PN intervention by comparing outcomes for navigated versus non-navigated patients in one of the community health clinics included in the statewide program. Outcomes measured included screening completion, adequacy of bowel preparation, missed appointments and cancellations, communication of test results, and consistency of follow-up recommendations with clinical guidelines. METHODS The authors compared a subset of 131 patients who were navigated to a screening or surveillance colonoscopy with a similar subset of 75 non-navigated patients at one endoscopy clinic. The prevalence and prevalence odds ratios were computed to measure the association between PN and each study outcome measure. RESULTS Patients in the PN intervention group were 11.2 times more likely to complete colonoscopy than control patients (96.2% vs 69.3%; P<.001), and were 5.9 times more likely to have adequate bowel preparation (P =.010). In addition, intervention patients had no missed appointments compared with 15.6% of control patients, and were 24.8 times more likely to not have a cancellation <24 hours before their appointment (P<.001). All navigated patients and their primary care providers received test results, and all follow-up recommendations were consistent with clinical guidelines compared with 82.4% of patients in the control group (P<.001). CONCLUSIONS PN appears to be effective for improving colonoscopy screening completion and quality in the disparate populations most in need of intervention. To the best of our knowledge, the results of the current study demonstrate some of the strongest evidence for the effectiveness of PN to date, and highlight its value for public health. PMID:28464213

Mortality and employment after in-patient opiate detoxification.

PubMed

Naderi-Heiden, A; Gleiss, A; Bäcker, C; Bieber, D; Nassan-Agha, H; Kasper, S; Frey, R

2012-05-01

We considered that completed opiate detoxification resulted in increased life expectancy and earning capacity as compared to non-completed detoxification. The cohort study sample included pure opioid or poly-substance addicts admitted for voluntary in-patient detoxification between 1997 and 2004. Of 404 patients, 58.7% completed the detoxification program and 41.3% did not. The Austrian Social Security Institution supplied data on survival and employment records for every single day in the individual observation period between discharge and December 2007. Statistical analyses included the calculation of standardized mortality rates for the follow-up period of up to 11 years. The standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) were between 13.5 and 17.9 during the first five years after discharge, thereafter they fell clearly with time. Mortality did not differ statistically significantly between completers and non-completers. The median employment rate was insignificantly higher in completers (12.0%) than in non-completers (5.5%). The odds for being employed were higher in pure opioid addicts than in poly-substance addicts (p=0.003). The assumption that completers of detoxification treatment have a better outcome than non-completers has not been confirmed. The decrease in mortality with time elapsed since detoxification is interesting. Pure opioid addicts had better employment prospects than poly-substance addicts. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

VLSI research

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brodersen, R. W.

1984-04-01

A scaled version of the RISC II chip has been fabricated and tested and these new chips have a cycle time that would outperform a VAX 11/780 by about a factor of two on compiled integer C programs. The architectural work on a RISC chip designed for a Smalltalk implementation has been completed. This chip, called SOAR (Smalltalk On a RISC), should run program s4-15 times faster than the Xerox 1100 (Dolphin), a TTL minicomputer, and about as fast as the Xerox 1132 (Dorado), a $100,000 ECL minicomputer. The 1983 VLSI tools tape has been converted for use under the latest UNIX release (4.2). The Magic (formerly called Caddy) layout system will be a unified set of highly automated tools that cover all aspects of the layout process, including stretching, compaction, tiling and routing. A multiple window package and design rule checker for this system have just been completed and compaction and stretching are partially implemented. New slope-based timing models for the Crystal timing analyzer are now fully implemented and in regular use. In an accuracy test using a dozen critical paths from the RISC II processor and cache chips it was found that Crystal's estimates were within 5-10% of SPICE's estimates, while being a factor of 10,000 times faster.

A study of engineering student attributes and time to completion of first-year required courses at Texas A&M University

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kimball, Jorja Lay

For many years, colleges of engineering across the nation have required that a foundational set of courses be completed for entry into upper division coursework or into a specific engineering major. Since 1998, The Dwight Look College of Engineering at Texas A&M University (TAMU) has required that incoming first-time enrolling students complete a Core Body of Knowledge (CBK) with specific cumulative grade points required for specific majors. However, considerations of the time to completion of coursework and other student characteristics and academic factors have not been taken into consideration by TAMU, like most institutions. The purpose of this study is to determine for first year engineering students at TAMU the relationship of gender, ethnicity, engineering major, unmet financial need, cumulative grade point average, and total transfer hours on time to completion of CBK courses. The results of the analysis showed that cumulative grade point average (CGPA) had the strongest relationship to completion of CBK of any independent variable in this study. Statistical significance was found for the following variables in this study: CGPA, gender, ethnicity, and unmet financial need. For the study's variable of major, statistical significance was found for Chemical, Electrical, and Computer Engineering majors. The one variable in this study that did not show statistical significance in relation to time to completion of CBK was transfer credit. Findings with implications for recruitment and retention of underrepresented in engineering is a statistical significance indicating that on average females are taking less time than males to complete CBK. The conclusion from the study is that efforts to attract more women into engineering have merit as do programs to support underrepresented students in order that they may complete CBK at a faster pace. Further study to determine profiles of those majors where statistical significance was found for students taking a greater or lesser amount of time for CBK completion than the mean is recommended, as is ongoing data collection and comparison for current cohorts of engineering majors at TAMU.

Increasing the graduation rates of minority medical students.

PubMed

Payne, J L; Nowacki, C M; Girotti, J A; Townsel, J; Plagge, J C; Beckham, T W

1986-05-01

The University of Illinois College of Medicine has operated a program since 1969 to recruit minority students into the college and to increase the graduation rates of these students once they enroll. Known as the Medical Opportunities Program (MOP) until 1978, the program was expanded in 1978 and renamed the Urban Health Program (UHP). The authors of the present paper discuss the results of these programs, particularly the effect of granting minority students delays in completing graduation requirements. The MOP (1969 through 1978) increased graduation rates for minority students from 55 percent for those who graduated on time to 81 percent for both on-time and delayed graduates. Under the first seven years of the UHP (1979 through 1985), more minority students have been offered places, and more have enrolled than in the 10 years of the MOP. The retention rate under the UHP, if it holds, will be higher than that under the MOP. For the combined MOP-UHP period, the retention rate for minority students was 88 percent; 69.8 percent of the graduates were on time, and 30.2 were delayed.

Comparison of physical therapy anatomy performance and anxiety scores in timed and untimed practical tests.

PubMed

Schwartz, Sarah M; Evans, Cathy; Agur, Anne M R

2015-01-01

Students in health care professional programs face many stressful tests that determine successful completion of their program. Test anxiety during these high stakes examinations can affect working memory and lead to poor outcomes. Methods of decreasing test anxiety include lengthening the time available to complete examinations or evaluating students using untimed examinations. There is currently no consensus in the literature regarding whether untimed examinations provide a benefit to test performance in clinical anatomy. This study aimed to determine the impact of timed versus untimed practical tests on Master of Physical Therapy student anatomy performance and test anxiety. Test anxiety was measured using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). Differences in performance, anxiety scores, and time taken were compared using paired sample Student's t-tests. Eighty-one of the 84 students completed the study and provided feedback. Students performed significantly higher on the untimed test (P = 0.005), with a significant reduction in test anxiety (P < 0.001). Students who were unsuccessful on the timed test showed the greatest improvement on the untimed test ( x¯ = 20.4 ±10%). Eighty-three percent (n = 69) of students preferred the untimed test, 8.4% (n = 7) the timed test, and 8.4% (n = 7) had no preference. Students took on average eight minutes longer on the untimed test. This study found that physical therapy students perform better on untimed tests, which may be related to a reduction in test anxiety. If the intended goal of evaluating health care professional students is to determine fundamental competencies, these factors should be considered when designing future curricula. © 2014 American Association of Anatomists.

Relationship between Admission Criteria and Program Completion in a Radiation Therapy Program

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dougherty, Adrienne M.

2017-01-01

Poor completion rates in the radiation therapy associate's degree program offered through a community college did not meet the standards set by the college and damaged the program's reputation. The relationship between admission criteria and program completion was not known. The purpose of this study was to determine if there were any…

Predictors of attrition for a sexual assault forensic examiner (SAFE) blended learning training program.

PubMed

Patterson, Debra; Resko, Stella

2015-01-01

Participant attrition is a major concern for online continuing education health care courses. The current study sought to understand what factors predicted health care professionals completing the online component of a sexual assault forensic examiner (SAFE) blended learning training program (12-week online course and 2-day in-person clinical skills workshop). The study used a Web-based survey to examine participant characteristics, motivation, and external barriers that may influence training completion. Hierarchical logistic regression was utilized to examine the predictors of training completion, while the Cox proportional hazards (Cox PH) regression model helped determine the factors associated with the timing of participant attrition. Results show that 79.3% of the enrolled professionals completed the online component. The study also found that clinicians who work in rural communities and those who were interested in a 2-day clinical skills workshop were more likely to complete the online course. In terms of when attrition occurred, we found that participants who were motivated by the 2-day clinical workshop, those who worked in a rural community, and participants interested in the training program because of its online nature were more likely to complete more of the online course. Blending an online course with a brief in-person clinical component may serve as a motivator for completing an online course because it provides the opportunity to develop clinical skills while receiving immediate feedback. Participant attrition appears to be less of a concern for rural clinicians because this modality can reduce their barriers to accessing continuing education. © 2015 The Alliance for Continuing Education in the Health Professions, the Society for Academic Continuing Medical Education, and the Council on Continuing Medical Education, Association for Hospital Medical Education.

Development and implementation of a smartphone application to promote physical activity and reduce screen-time in adolescent boys.

PubMed

Lubans, David R; Smith, Jordan J; Skinner, Geoff; Morgan, Philip J

2014-01-01

To describe the development and implementation of a smartphone application (app) designed to promote physical activity and reduce screen-time in adolescent boys considered "at-risk" of obesity. An app was developed to support the delivery of a face-to-face school-based obesity prevention program known as the "Active Teen Leaders Avoiding Screen-time" (ATLAS) program. ATLAS was guided by self-determination theory and social cognitive theory and evaluated using a cluster randomized controlled trial with 361 boys (12.7 ± 0.5 years) in 14 secondary schools. Following the completion of the study, participants in the intervention group completed a process evaluation questionnaire and focus groups were conducted with 42 students to explore their general perceptions of the ATLAS program and their experience with the smartphone app. Barriers and challenges encountered in the development, implementation, and evaluation of the app are also described. Participation in the study was not contingent on ownership of a smartphone, but 70% of participants in the intervention group reported having access to a smartphone or tablet device. Focus group participants reported an enjoyment of the program, and felt that it had provided them with new skills, techniques, and routines for the future. However, their engagement with the smartphone app was limited, due to a variety of reasons. Barriers to the implementation and evaluation of the app included limited access to smartphone devices, technical problems with the push notifications, lack of access to usage data, and the challenges of maintaining participants' interest in using the app. Although participants reported high levels of satisfaction with the ATLAS program in general, the smartphone app was not used extensively. Additional strategies and features may be needed to enhance engagement in adolescent boys.

The Impact of an Innovative Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program on the Health and Well-Being of Nurses Employed in a Corporate Setting

PubMed Central

Bazarko, Dawn; Cate, Rebecca A.; Azocar, Francisca; Kreitzer, Mary Jo

2013-01-01

This study implemented an innovative new model of delivering a Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program that replaces six of the eight traditional in-person sessions with group telephonic sessions (tMBSR) and measured the program's impact on the health and well-being of nurses employed within a large health care organization. As part of a nonrandomized pre–post intervention study, 36 nurses completed measures of health, stress, burnout, self-compassion, serenity, and empathy at three points in time. Between baseline (Time 1) and the end of the 8-week tMBSR intervention (Time 2), participants showed improvement in general health, t(37) = 2.8, p < .01, decreased stress, t(37) = 6.8, p < .001, decreased work burnout, t(37) = 4.0, p < .001, and improvement in several other areas. Improvements were sustained 4 months later (Time 3), and individuals who continued their MBSR practice after the program demonstrated better outcomes than those that did not. Findings suggest that the tMBSR program can be a low cost, feasible, and scalable intervention that shows positive impact on health and well-being, and could allow MBSR to be delivered to employees who are otherwise unable to access traditional, on-site programs. PMID:23667348

Meeting the Challenges of Completing a Counseling Doctoral Program.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Boes, Susan R.; Ullery, Elizabeth K.; Millner, Vaughn S.; Cobia, Debra C.

1999-01-01

Tasks of a doctoral program are discussed, including selecting a program, maneuvering through initial experiences, making adjustments, completing coursework, preparing for comprehensive examinations, choosing an internship, and completing the dissertation. (Author)

Writing Together to Get AHEAD: an interprofessional boot camp to support scholarly writing in the health professions

PubMed Central

von Isenburg, Megan; Lee, Linda S.; Oermann, Marilyn H.

2017-01-01

Background Writing for publication is an integral skill for both sharing research findings and career advancement, yet many faculty lack expertise, support, and time to author scholarly publications. Health professions educators identified writing as an area in which a new educators’ academy could offer support. Case Presentation To address this need, a writing task force was formed consisting of a librarian, a School of Medicine faculty member, and a School of Nursing faculty member. The task force launched two initiatives to motivate and support faculty writing and publication over two academic years. In the first year, a structured interprofessional “boot camp” consisting of a sequenced, modularized approach to manuscript completion was offered. In the second year, community building, in-person writing sessions, and incentives were added to the structured tasks. In year one, twenty participants enlisted in the boot camp, nine of whom completed a manuscript for submission by the end of the program. Qualitative feedback indicated potential improvements, which were put in place in the second program. In year two, twenty-eight participants enrolled, and eleven submitted thirteen manuscripts for publication by the end of the program. Conclusions Structured tasks, frequent deadlines, and professional editorial assistance were highly valued by participants. Time remains a barrier for faculty seeking to complete manuscripts. As experts in many facets of the publication process, librarians are well positioned to partner with others to facilitate faculty and staff development in writing. PMID:28377681

Writing Together to Get AHEAD: an interprofessional boot camp to support scholarly writing in the health professions.

PubMed

von Isenburg, Megan; Lee, Linda S; Oermann, Marilyn H

2017-04-01

Writing for publication is an integral skill for both sharing research findings and career advancement, yet many faculty lack expertise, support, and time to author scholarly publications. Health professions educators identified writing as an area in which a new educators' academy could offer support. To address this need, a writing task force was formed consisting of a librarian, a School of Medicine faculty member, and a School of Nursing faculty member. The task force launched two initiatives to motivate and support faculty writing and publication over two academic years. In the first year, a structured interprofessional "boot camp" consisting of a sequenced, modularized approach to manuscript completion was offered. In the second year, community building, in-person writing sessions, and incentives were added to the structured tasks. In year one, twenty participants enlisted in the boot camp, nine of whom completed a manuscript for submission by the end of the program. Qualitative feedback indicated potential improvements, which were put in place in the second program. In year two, twenty-eight participants enrolled, and eleven submitted thirteen manuscripts for publication by the end of the program. Structured tasks, frequent deadlines, and professional editorial assistance were highly valued by participants. Time remains a barrier for faculty seeking to complete manuscripts. As experts in many facets of the publication process, librarians are well positioned to partner with others to facilitate faculty and staff development in writing.

Pilot study comparing changes in postural control after training using a video game balance board program and 2 standard activity-based balance intervention programs.

PubMed

Pluchino, Alessandra; Lee, Sae Yong; Asfour, Shihab; Roos, Bernard A; Signorile, Joseph F

2012-07-01

To compare the impacts of Tai Chi, a standard balance exercise program, and a video game balance board program on postural control and perceived falls risk. Randomized controlled trial. Research laboratory. Independent seniors (N=40; 72.5±8.40) began the training, 27 completed. Tai Chi, a standard balance exercise program, and a video game balance board program. The following were used as measures: Timed Up & Go, One-Leg Stance, functional reach, Tinetti Performance Oriented Mobility Assessment, force plate center of pressure (COP) and time to boundary, dynamic posturography (DP), Falls Risk for Older People-Community Setting, and Falls Efficacy Scale. No significant differences were seen between groups for any outcome measures at baseline, nor were significant time or group × time differences for any field test or questionnaire. No group × time differences were seen for any COP measures; however, significant time differences were seen for total COP, 3 of 4 anterior/posterior displacement and both velocity, and 1 displacement and 1 velocity medial/lateral measure across time for the entire sample. For DP, significant improvements in the overall score (dynamic movement analysis score), and in 2 of the 3 linear and angular measures were seen for the sample. The video game balance board program, which can be performed at home, was as effective as Tai Chi and the standard balance exercise program in improving postural control and balance dictated by the force plate postural sway and DP measures. This finding may have implications for exercise adherence because the at-home nature of the intervention eliminates many obstacles to exercise training. Copyright © 2012 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Protected Resident Research Time Does Not Increase the Quantity or Quality of Residency Program Research Publications: A Comparison of 3 Orthopedic Residencies.

PubMed

Krueger, Chad A; Hoffman, Jeffery D; Balazs, George C; Johnson, Anthony E; Potter, Benjamin K; Belmont, Philip J

The effect of dedicated resident research time in terms of residency program research productivity remains largely unknown. We hypothesize that the quantity and quality of a residency program's peer-reviewed publications (PRPs) increase proportionately with the amount of dedicated research time given to residents. Three residency programs (P1, P2, and P3) were examined. P1 has a mandatory research year for all residents between postgraduate years 3 and 4. P2 has an elective research year for 1 resident between postgraduate years 2 and 3. P3 has no dedicated research time for residents. All publications produced by residents and staff at each program from January 2007 through December were recorded from PUBMED. SCImago Journal Rankings were used as a proxy to measure research quality. There was no significant difference in the number of publications produced between the institutions on a per-staff (p = 0.27) and per-resident (p = 0.80) basis. There were no residents at P3 who graduated without at least 1 PRP, whereas there were 7 residents from P1 and 8 residents from P2 who graduated without a PRP. There were no significant differences between programs in terms of the SCImago Journal Ranking for the journals containing their publications (p = 0.135). Residency programs with dedicated research time did not produce significantly (p > 0.05) more, or higher quality, PRPs than residencies without dedicated research time. It may be that the quantity and quality of PRPs is related more to faculty engagement, research interest, and mentorship at individual programs rather than the number of residents given dedicated time to complete research. Level 3. Published by Elsevier Inc.

46 CFR 296.3 - Applications.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... SECURITY PROGRAM (MSP) Introduction § 296.3 Applications. (a) Action by MARAD—Time Deadlines. Applications... or other governing instruments; (4) Maritime related affiliations; (5) Financial data: (i) Provide an audited financial statement or a completed MARAD Form MA-172 dated within 120 days after the close of the...

Parent-Aided Homework: A Working Model for School Personnel.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Harris, James R.

1983-01-01

Describes Parent-Aided Homework, a behavior modification program designed to encourage parent involvement in their child's homework. The PAH plan stresses positive reinforcement for successfully completed homework assignments. Parents enforce the agreed-on time limits and provide extra learning experiences and rewards. (JAC)

Changes in Generic and Degree Completion Dental Hygiene Student Characteristics.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carr, Sandra; Rubinstein, Linda

1989-01-01

A study compared the characteristics of dental hygiene students in two programs (bachelor's degree and two-year professional dental hygiene training) in 1978 and 1987 to assess changes over time. Results are presented and the implications for enrollment management are discussed. (MSE)

Use of a student support group to reduce student stress in a nurse anesthesia program.

PubMed

Kless, J R

1989-02-01

Stress in nurse anesthesia programs may be excessive at times, especially in new students. While some degree of stress is necessary to motivate learning, excessive or prolonged stress can interfere with the normal learning process, thereby prolonging a student's clinical and academic progress. In the extreme, excessive stress may even preclude a student's successful completion of the educational program. Active faculty intervention through a student support group is advocated as a method for controlling stress levels and facilitating student learning. The positive effects of such intervention also increase the overall productivity of a program and better prepare nurse anesthesia students for their future careers.

Hypoglossal-facial nerve anastomosis and rehabilitation in patients with complete facial palsy: cohort study of 30 patients followed up for three years

PubMed Central

Toffola, Elena Dalla; Pavese, Chiara; Cecini, Miriam; Petrucci, Lucia; Ricotti, Susanna; Bejor, Maurizio; Salimbeni, Grazia; Biglioli, Federico; Klersy, Catherine

2014-01-01

Summary Our study evaluates the grade and timing of recovery in 30 patients with complete facial paralysis (House-Brackmann grade VI) treated with hypoglossal-facial nerve (XII-VII) anastomosis and a long-term rehabilitation program, consisting of exercises in facial muscle activation mediated by tongue movement and synkinesis control with mirror feedback. Reinnervation after XII-VII anastomosis occurred in 29 patients, on average 5.4 months after surgery. Three years after the anastomosis, 23.3% of patients had grade II, 53.3% grade III, 20% grade IV and 3.3% grade VI ratings on the House-Brackmann scale. Time to reinnervation was associated with the final House-Brackmann grade. Our study demonstrates that patients undergoing XII-VII anastomosis and a long-term rehabilitation program display a significant recovery of facial symmetry and movement. The recovery continues for at least three years after the anastomosis, meaning that prolonged follow-up of these patients is advisable. PMID:25473738

TES: A modular systems approach to expert system development for real-time space applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cacace, Ralph; England, Brenda

1988-01-01

A major goal of the Space Station era is to reduce reliance on support from ground based experts. The development of software programs using expert systems technology is one means of reaching this goal without requiring crew members to become intimately familiar with the many complex spacecraft subsystems. Development of an expert systems program requires a validation of the software with actual flight hardware. By combining accurate hardware and software modelling techniques with a modular systems approach to expert systems development, the validation of these software programs can be successfully completed with minimum risk and effort. The TIMES Expert System (TES) is an application that monitors and evaluates real time data to perform fault detection and fault isolation tasks as they would otherwise be carried out by a knowledgeable designer. The development process and primary features of TES, a modular systems approach, and the lessons learned are discussed.

40 CFR 86.1817-05 - Complete heavy-duty vehicle averaging, trading, and banking program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

..., trading, and banking program. 86.1817-05 Section 86.1817-05 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL... Complete heavy-duty vehicle averaging, trading, and banking program. (a) General. (1) Complete heavy-duty vehicles eligible for the NOX averaging, trading and banking program are described in the applicable...

25 CFR 26.32 - What constitutes a complete Job Training Program application?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 25 Indians 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false What constitutes a complete Job Training Program... JOB PLACEMENT AND TRAINING PROGRAM Training Services § 26.32 What constitutes a complete Job Training Program application? A request for training includes: (a) Intake and application data; (b) Feasible...

40 CFR 86.1817-05 - Complete heavy-duty vehicle averaging, trading, and banking program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

..., trading, and banking program. 86.1817-05 Section 86.1817-05 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL... Complete heavy-duty vehicle averaging, trading, and banking program. (a) General. (1) Complete heavy-duty vehicles eligible for the NOX averaging, trading and banking program are described in the applicable...

40 CFR 86.1817-05 - Complete heavy-duty vehicle averaging, trading, and banking program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

..., trading, and banking program. 86.1817-05 Section 86.1817-05 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL... Complete heavy-duty vehicle averaging, trading, and banking program. (a) General. (1) Complete heavy-duty vehicles eligible for the NOX averaging, trading and banking program are described in the applicable...

Factors That Predict Time to In-Field Employment of Associate Degree Graduates: A Study of One College in the Technical College System of Georgia

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Futch, Karon Wilkerson

2014-01-01

This regression study examined the set of graduate characteristics (age, gender, ethnicity), as well as Grade Point Average Motivation, and environmental factors (program of study, use of career services, internship completion, Grade Point Average) that predicted time to in-field employment among associate degree graduates. Graduates ranging from…

Decentralized Real-Time Scheduling

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-08-01

must provide several alternative resource management policies, including FIFO and deadline queueing for shared resources that are not available. 5...When demand exceeds the supply of shared resources (even within a single switch), some calls cannot be completed. In that case, a call’s priority...associated chiefly with the need to manage resources in a timely and decentralized fashion. The Alpha programming model permits the convenient expression of

But It All Happened Online--Where Do We Stand as a School?: Student Rights in Noninstructional Matters

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gomez, Juan; McNamara, Patrick; Brooks, Jeffrey S.

2006-01-01

This case was developed as part of a school law course in an educational leadership preparation program and focuses on a school's legal right to discipline a student for creating and posting two offensive Web sites: One was generated during instructional time, and the other was completed off-site during noninstructional time. The second Web site…

Obtaining Reliable Predictions of Terrestrial Energy Coupling From Real-Time Solar Wind Measurement

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Weimer, Daniel R.

2001-01-01

The first draft of a manuscript titled "Variable time delays in the propagation of the interplanetary magnetic field" has been completed, for submission to the Journal of Geophysical Research. In the preparation of this manuscript all data and analysis programs had been updated to the highest temporal resolution possible, at 16 seconds or better. The program which computes the "measured" IMF propagation time delays from these data has also undergone another improvement. In another significant development, a technique has been developed in order to predict IMF phase plane orientations, and the resulting time delays, using only measurements from a single satellite at L1. The "minimum variance" method is used for this computation. Further work will be done on optimizing the choice of several parameters for the minimum variance calculation.

An Advanced simulation Code for Modeling Inductive Output Tubes

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

Thuc Bui; R. Lawrence Ives

2012-04-27

During the Phase I program, CCR completed several major building blocks for a 3D large signal, inductive output tube (IOT) code using modern computer language and programming techniques. These included a 3D, Helmholtz, time-harmonic, field solver with a fully functional graphical user interface (GUI), automeshing and adaptivity. Other building blocks included the improved electrostatic Poisson solver with temporal boundary conditions to provide temporal fields for the time-stepping particle pusher as well as the self electric field caused by time-varying space charge. The magnetostatic field solver was also updated to solve for the self magnetic field caused by time changing currentmore » density in the output cavity gap. The goal function to optimize an IOT cavity was also formulated, and the optimization methodologies were investigated.« less

Continuing education for primary health care nurse practitioners in Ontario, Canada.

PubMed

Baxter, Pamela; DiCenso, Alba; Donald, Faith; Martin-Misener, Ruth; Opsteen, Joanne; Chambers, Tracey

2013-04-01

The Council of Ontario University Programs in Nursing offers a nine-university, consortium-based primary health care nurse practitioner education program and on-line continuing education courses for primary health care nurse practitioners. Our study sought to determine the continuing education needs of primary health care nurse practitioners across Ontario, how best to meet these needs, and the barriers they face in completing continuing education. Surveys were completed by 83 (40%) of 209 learners who had participated in continuing education offered by the Council of Ontario University Programs in Nursing between 2004 and 2007. While 83% (n=50) of nurse practitioners surveyed indicated that continuing education was extremely important to them, they also identified barriers to engaging in continuing education offerings including; time intensity of the courses, difficulty taking time off work, family obligations, finances and fatigue. The most common reason for withdrawal from a continuing education offering was the difficulty of balancing work and study demands. Continuing education opportunities are important to Ontario primary health care nurse practitioners, and on-line continuing education offerings have been well received, but in order to be taken up by their target audience they must be relevant, readily accessible, flexible, affordable and offered over brief, intense periods of time using technology that is easy to use and Internet sites that are easily navigated. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Cluster of Exertional Rhabdomyolysis Cases in a ROTC Program Engaged in an Extreme Exercise Program.

PubMed

Raleigh, Meghan F; Barrett, John P; Jones, Brent D; Beutler, Anthony I; Deuster, Patricia A; O'Connor, Francis G

2018-03-01

Exertional rhabdomyolysis (ER) is on the rise among service members and high school and college athletes. Reported risk factors for ER include fitness level, sudden increase in exercise intensity and duration, and eccentric predominant exercise. This study examined an ER cluster among Reserve Officer Training Corps cadets who participated in a mandatory, timed, extreme conditioning program (ECP) workout. Forty-four cadets participated in this ECP; 11 were subsequently hospitalized with ER. Thirty-five cadets, including all who developed ER, completed a questionnaire to assess ECP times, prior fitness scores, and other ER risk factors. Cadets completed the ECP workout as individuals or in teams. Nine of 29 (31%) individual and two of 15 (13%) team participants were hospitalized with ER. Among the cadets, no associations were noted between hospitalization for ER and finish time, previous fitness scores, or dietary supplement use. The relative risk of developing ER was significantly increased in those who consumed alcohol in the week preceding the ECP (RR = 4.20; 95% CI 1.95, 9.03). In this cohort of Reserve Officer Training Corps cadets, an ECP resulted in a high rate of hospitalization for ER. Contrary to reported ER risk factors, higher baseline fitness was not protective. Rather, cadet knowledge that ECP performance was strongly linked to final cadet ranking greatly influenced intensity of effort.

Senior medical student opinions regarding the ideal urology interview day.

PubMed

Jacobs, Jesse C; Guralnick, Michael L; Sandlow, Jay I; Langenstroer, Peter; Begun, Frank P; See, William A; O'Connor, Robert Corey

2014-01-01

Applicant interviews for urology residency positions are a stressful and costly process for students, faculty, and staff. We conducted a prospective survey to better determine what urology applicants perceive as an ideal interview process to gain sufficient knowledge about a training program. A questionnaire was anonymously completed by all urology residency applicants interviewing at the Medical College of Wisconsin from 2007 to 2013. Questionnaire subject headings included "ideal interview format," "factors contributing to understanding the residency program," and "factors contributing to final rank list order." Questionnaires were distributed to and completed by 221 senior medical students applying for a urology residency position. Most respondents (>80%) reported they would prefer to partake in 5 to 7 faculty interviews in an office setting with the total interview process spanning half to three-fourths of the workday. Spending time with current residents was considered the most valuable tool to acquire knowledge about a residency program. The most important criteria when ranking a program were resident satisfaction, resident operative experience, and perceived strength of faculty. Academic urology programs may wish to consider applicant ideals when organizing residency interviews. Interaction with current residents appears to be the most valuable resource allowing applicants to garner knowledge about a urology training program. Copyright © 2014 Association of Program Directors in Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Hepatitis A/B vaccine completion among homeless adults with history of incarceration.

PubMed

Nyamathi, Adeline M; Marlow, Elizabeth; Branson, Catherine; Marfisee, Mary; Nandy, Karabi

2012-03-01

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination rates for incarcerated adults remain low despite their high risk for infection. This study determined predictors of vaccine completion in homeless adults (N= 297) who reported histories of incarceration and who participated in one of three nurse-led hepatitis programs of different intensity. Moreover time since release from incarceration was also considered. Just over half of the former prisoners completed the vaccine series. Older age (≥40), having a partner, and chronic homelessness were associated with vaccine completion. Recent research has documented the difficulty in providing vaccine services to younger homeless persons and homeless males at risk for HBV. Additional strategies are needed to achieve HBV vaccination completion rates greater than 50% for formerly incarcerated homeless men. © 2012 International Association of Forensic Nurses.

Content and Evaluation of the Benefits of Effective Exercise for Older Adults With Knee Pain Trial Physiotherapist Training Program.

PubMed

Holden, Melanie A; Whittle, Rebecca; Healey, Emma L; Hill, Susan; Mullis, Ricky; Roddy, Edward; Sowden, Gail; Tooth, Stephanie; Foster, Nadine E

2017-05-01

To explore whether participating in the Benefits of Effective Exercise for knee Pain (BEEP) trial training program increased physiotherapists' self-confidence and changed their intended clinical behavior regarding exercise for knee pain in older adults. Before/after training program evaluation. Physiotherapists were asked to complete a questionnaire before the BEEP trial training program, immediately after, and 12 to 18 months later (postintervention delivery in the BEEP trial). The questionnaire included a case vignette and associated clinical management questions. Questionnaire responses were compared over time and between physiotherapists trained to deliver each intervention within the BEEP trial. Primary care. Physiotherapists (N=53) who completed the BEEP trial training program. Not applicable. Self-confidence in the diagnosis and management of knee pain in older adults; and intended clinical behavior measured by a case vignette and associated clinical management questions. Fifty-two physiotherapists (98%) returned the pretraining questionnaire, and 44 (85%) and 39 (74%) returned the posttraining and postintervention questionnaires, respectively. Posttraining, self-confidence in managing older adults with knee pain increased, and intended clinical behavior regarding exercise for knee pain in older adults appeared more in line with clinical guidelines. However, not all positive changes were maintained in the longer-term. Participating in the BEEP trial training program increased physiotherapists' self-confidence and changed their intended clinical behavior regarding exercise for knee pain, but by 12 to 18 months later, some of these positive changes were lost. This suggests that brief training programs are useful, but additional strategies are likely needed to successfully maintain changes in clinical behavior over time. Copyright © 2016 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

United States Medical Licensing Examination and American Board of Pediatrics Certification Examination Results: Does the Residency Program Contribute to Trainee Achievement.

PubMed

Welch, Thomas R; Olson, Brad G; Nelsen, Elizabeth; Beck Dallaghan, Gary L; Kennedy, Gloria A; Botash, Ann

2017-09-01

To determine whether training site or prior examinee performance on the US Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) step 1 and step 2 might predict pass rates on the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP) certifying examination. Data from graduates of pediatric residency programs completing the ABP certifying examination between 2009 and 2013 were obtained. For each, results of the initial ABP certifying examination were obtained, as well as results on National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) step 1 and step 2 examinations. Hierarchical linear modeling was used to nest first-time ABP results within training programs to isolate program contribution to ABP results while controlling for USMLE step 1 and step 2 scores. Stepwise linear regression was then used to determine which of these examinations was a better predictor of ABP results. A total of 1110 graduates of 15 programs had complete testing results and were subject to analysis. Mean ABP scores for these programs ranged from 186.13 to 214.32. The hierarchical linear model suggested that the interaction of step 1 and 2 scores predicted ABP performance (F[1,1007.70] = 6.44, P = .011). By conducting a multilevel model by training program, both USMLE step examinations predicted first-time ABP results (b = .002, t = 2.54, P = .011). Linear regression analyses indicated that step 2 results were a better predictor of ABP performance than step 1 or a combination of the two USMLE scores. Performance on the USMLE examinations, especially step 2, predicts performance on the ABP certifying examination. The contribution of training site to ABP performance was statistically significant, though contributed modestly to the effect compared with prior USMLE scores. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Using just-in-time teaching and peer instruction in a residency program's core curriculum: enhancing satisfaction, engagement, and retention.

PubMed

Schuller, Mary C; DaRosa, Debra A; Crandall, Marie L

2015-03-01

To assess use of the combined just-in-time teaching (JiTT) and peer instruction (PI) instructional strategy in a residency program's core curriculum. In 2010-2011, JiTT/PI was piloted in 31 core curriculum sessions taught by 22 faculty in the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine's general surgery residency program. JiTT/PI required preliminary and categorical residents (n=31) to complete Web-based study questions before weekly specialty topic sessions. Responses were examined by faculty members "just in time" to tailor session content to residents' learning needs. In the sessions, residents answered multiple-choice questions (MCQs) using clickers and engaged in PI. Participants completed surveys assessing their perceptions of JiTT/PI. Videos were coded to assess resident engagement time in JiTT/PI sessions versus prior lecture-based sessions. Responses to topic session MCQs repeated in review sessions were evaluated to study retention. More than 70% of resident survey respondents indicated that JiTT/PI aided in the learning of key points. At least 90% of faculty survey respondents reported positive perceptions of aspects of the JiTT/PI strategy. Resident engagement time for JiTT/PI sessions was significantly greater than for prior lecture-based sessions (z=-2.4, P=.016). Significantly more review session MCQ responses were correct for residents who had attended corresponding JiTT/PI sessions than for residents who had not (chi-square=13.7; df=1; P<.001). JiTT/PI increased learner participation, learner retention, and the amount of learner-centered time. JiTT/PI represents an effective approach for meaningful and active learning in core curriculum sessions.

A cluster randomized trial evaluating the efficacy of patient navigation in improving quality of diagnostic care for patients with breast or colorectal cancer abnormalities.

PubMed

Wells, Kristen J; Lee, Ji-Hyun; Calcano, Ercilia R; Meade, Cathy D; Rivera, Marlene; Fulp, William J; Roetzheim, Richard G

2012-10-01

This study examines efficacy of a lay patient navigation (PN) program aimed to reduce time between a cancer abnormality and definitive diagnosis among racially/ethnically diverse and medically underserved populations of Tampa Bay, Florida. Using a cluster randomized design, the study consisted of 11 clinics (six navigated; five control). Patients were navigated from time of a breast or colorectal abnormality to diagnostic resolution, and to completion of cancer treatment. Using a generalized mixed-effects model to assess intervention effects, we examined: (i) length of time between abnormality and definitive diagnosis, and (ii) receipt of definitive diagnosis within the 6-month minimum follow-up period. A total of 1,267 patients participated (588 navigated; 679 control). We also included data from an additional 309 chart abstractions (139 navigated arm; 170 control arm) that assessed outcomes at baseline. PN did not have a significant effect on time to diagnostic resolution in multivariable analysis that adjusted for race-ethnicity, language, insurance status, marital status, and cancer site (P = 0.16). Although more navigated patients achieved diagnostic resolution by 180 days, results were not statistically significant (74.5% navigated vs. 68.5% control, P = 0.07). PN did not impact the overall time to completion of diagnostic care or the number of patients who reached diagnostic resolution of a cancer abnormality. Further evaluation of PN programs applied to other patient populations across the cancer continuum is necessary to gain a better perspective on its effectiveness. PN programs may not impact timely resolution of an abnormality suspicious of breast or colorectal cancer. 2012 AACR

Variability of Passing Grades in Undergraduate Nursing Education Programs in New York State.

PubMed

Reynolds, Diane

2015-01-01

The purpose of this descriptive study was to provide information about passing grades and their corresponding numeric grades for undergraduate nursing programs in New York State. An additional purpose was to report on differences in grading between faculty teaching in associate versus baccalaureate nursing programs, full-time versus adjunct faculty, and tenured versus nontenured faculty. There is a paucity of research on grade variability in undergraduate nursing programs. Three hundred eighty-four full-time and 96 adjunct faculty responded to an invitation to complete an online survey. Grades are not uniformly awarded across institutions. Passing grades ranged from 70 to 85 percent (C- to B+, respectively), with a mean of 74.79 percent. Wide variations in grades in different institutions across the country may undermine grade point average as a reliable measure of education, making it difficult to evaluate individual student performance.

Participation Rates, Process Monitoring, and Quality Improvement Among Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs in the United States: A NATIONAL SURVEY.

PubMed

Pack, Quinn R; Squires, Ray W; Lopez-Jimenez, Francisco; Lichtman, Steven W; Rodriguez-Escudero, Juan P; Lindenauer, Peter K; Thomas, Randal J

2015-01-01

Although strategies exist for improving cardiac rehabilitation (CR) participation rates, it is unclear how frequently these strategies are used and what efforts are being made by CR programs to improve participation rates. We surveyed all CR program directors in the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation's database. Data collection included program characteristics, the use of specific referral and recruitment strategies, and self-reported program participation rates. Between 2007 and 2012, 49% of programs measured referral of inpatients from the hospital, 21% measured outpatient referral from office/clinic, 71% measured program enrollment, and 74% measured program completion rates. Program-reported participation rates (interquartile range) were 68% (32-90) for hospital referral, 35% (15-60) for office/clinic referral, 70% (46-80) for enrollment, and 75% (62-82) for program completion. The majority of programs utilized a hospital-based systematic referral, liaison-facilitated referral, or inpatient CR program referral (64%, 68%, and 60% of the time, respectively). Early appointments (<2 weeks) were utilized by 35%, and consistent phone call appointment reminders were utilized by 50% of programs. Quality improvement (QI) projects were performed by about half of CR programs. Measurement of participation rates was highly correlated with performing QI projects (P < .0001.) : Although programs are aware of participation rate gaps, the monitoring of participation rates is suboptimal, QI initiatives are infrequent, and proven strategies for increasing patient participation are inconsistently utilized. These issues likely contribute to the national CR participation gap and may prove to be useful targets for national QI initiatives.

Computer programs for pressurization (RAMP) and pressurized expulsion from a cryogenic liquid propellant tank

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Masters, P. A.

1974-01-01

An analysis to predict the pressurant gas requirements for the discharge of cryogenic liquid propellants from storage tanks is presented, along with an algorithm and two computer programs. One program deals with the pressurization (ramp) phase of bringing the propellant tank up to its operating pressure. The method of analysis involves a numerical solution of the temperature and velocity functions for the tank ullage at a discrete set of points in time and space. The input requirements of the program are the initial ullage conditions, the initial temperature and pressure of the pressurant gas, and the time for the expulsion or the ramp. Computations are performed which determine the heat transfer between the ullage gas and the tank wall. Heat transfer to the liquid interface and to the hardware components may be included in the analysis. The program output includes predictions of mass of pressurant required, total energy transfer, and wall and ullage temperatures. The analysis, the algorithm, a complete description of input and output, and the FORTRAN 4 program listings are presented. Sample cases are included to illustrate use of the programs.

A Hermeneutic Phenomenological Study of Non-Completers in Online Doctor of Education Programs

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wyman, Bernadette Marie

2012-01-01

The chance of an individual completing a traditional doctorate program is 50% (Bowen & Rudenstine, 1992; Council of Graduate Schools Ph.D. Completion Project, 2008; Ivankova & Stick, 2007). Student attrition in online programs is 10% to 20% greater than that of traditional, residential programs (Allen & Seaman, 2010; Carr, 2000; Diaz,…

Parallel program debugging with flowback analysis

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

Choi, Jongdeok.

1989-01-01

This thesis describes the design and implementation of an integrated debugging system for parallel programs running on shared memory multi-processors. The goal of the debugging system is to present to the programmer a graphical view of the dynamic program dependences while keeping the execution-time overhead low. The author first describes the use of flowback analysis to provide information on causal relationship between events in a programs' execution without re-executing the program for debugging. Execution time overhead is kept low by recording only a small amount of trace during a program's execution. He uses semantic analysis and a technique called incrementalmore » tracing to keep the time and space overhead low. As part of the semantic analysis, he uses a static program dependence graph structure that reduces the amount of work done at compile time and takes advantage of the dynamic information produced during execution time. The cornerstone of the incremental tracing concept is to generate a coarse trace during execution and fill incrementally, during the interactive portion of the debugging session, the gap between the information gathered in the coarse trace and the information needed to do the flowback analysis using the coarse trace. Then, he describes how to extend the flowback analysis to parallel programs. The flowback analysis can span process boundaries; i.e., the most recent modification to a shared variable might be traced to a different process than the one that contains the current reference. The static and dynamic program dependence graphs of the individual processes are tied together with synchronization and data dependence information to form complete graphs that represent the entire program.« less

Effect of a maternity consumer representative training program on participants' confidence and engagement.

PubMed

Jenkinson, Bec M; Smethurst, Joanne; Boorman, Rhonda; Creedy, Debra K

2014-06-01

This paper describes the effects of a maternity consumer representative training program on participants' confidence to fulfil this role and engagement in representative activities. The present study was a descriptive, pre-post evaluation design with a 3-month follow-up. Fifty-eight people completed the program and 55 agreed to participate in the evaluation. Participants completed questionnaires to assess confidence to undertake consumer representative roles and reported on their engagement with consumer activities. Participants' perceived confidence to function in the role of consumer representative differed significantly before and after the workshop (F(2,18)=7.057, P<0.001), as did confidence in decision making (F(2,16)=7.615, P=0.005), confidence in negotiating outcomes and liaising with key people (F(2,18)=7.154, P=0.005), and confidence in making use of relevant networks (F(2,18)=4.319, P=0.029). There was a decline in confidence at 3 months, with confidence at this time no longer significantly different from that at the time of recruitment. Engagement with consumer organisations increased by 45% compared with rates at commencement of the project. The program enhanced participants' confidence to fulfil a maternity consumer representative role but was not sustained. Further research is needed as to how to best support maternity consumer representatives and assess their contribution to promoting woman-centred care.

Using a Root Cause Analysis Curriculum for Practice-Based Learning and Improvement in General Surgery Residency.

PubMed

Ramanathan, Rajesh; Duane, Therese M; Kaplan, Brian J; Farquhar, Doris; Kasirajan, Vigneshwar; Ferrada, Paula

2015-01-01

To describe and evaluate a root cause analysis (RCA)-based educational curriculum for quality improvement (QI) practice-based learning and implementation in general surgery residency. A QI curriculum was designed using RCA and spaced-learning approaches to education. The program included a didactic session about the RCA methodology. Resident teams comprising multiple postgraduate years then selected a personal complication, completed an RCA, and presented the findings to the Department of Surgery. Mixed methods consisting of quantitative assessment of performance and qualitative feedback about the program were used to assess the value, strengths, and limitations of the program. Urban tertiary academic medical center. General surgery residents, faculty, and medical students. An RCA was completed by 4 resident teams for the following 4 adverse outcomes: postoperative neck hematoma, suboptimal massive transfusion for trauma, venous thromboembolism, and decubitus ulcer complications. Quantitative peer assessment of their performance revealed proficiency in selecting an appropriate case, defining the central problem, identifying root causes, and proposing solutions. During the qualitative feedback assessment, residents noted value of the course, with the greatest limitation being time constraints and equal participation. An RCA-based curriculum can provide general surgery residents with QI exposure and training that they value. Barriers to successful implementation include time restrictions and equal participation from all involved members. Copyright © 2015 Association of Program Directors in Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Multiprogramming performance degradation - Case study on a shared memory multiprocessor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dimpsey, R. T.; Iyer, R. K.

1989-01-01

The performance degradation due to multiprogramming overhead is quantified for a parallel-processing machine. Measurements of real workloads were taken, and it was found that there is a moderate correlation between the completion time of a program and the amount of system overhead measured during program execution. Experiments in controlled environments were then conducted to calculate a lower bound on the performance degradation of parallel jobs caused by multiprogramming overhead. The results show that the multiprogramming overhead of parallel jobs consumes at least 4 percent of the processor time. When two or more serial jobs are introduced into the system, this amount increases to 5.3 percent

Robust Adaptive Dynamic Programming of Two-Player Zero-Sum Games for Continuous-Time Linear Systems.

PubMed

Fu, Yue; Fu, Jun; Chai, Tianyou

2015-12-01

In this brief, an online robust adaptive dynamic programming algorithm is proposed for two-player zero-sum games of continuous-time unknown linear systems with matched uncertainties, which are functions of system outputs and states of a completely unknown exosystem. The online algorithm is developed using the policy iteration (PI) scheme with only one iteration loop. A new analytical method is proposed for convergence proof of the PI scheme. The sufficient conditions are given to guarantee globally asymptotic stability and suboptimal property of the closed-loop system. Simulation studies are conducted to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.

NADE Accreditation: The Right Decision for the Current Time

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

NADE Digest, 2018

2018-01-01

The National Association for Developmental Education (NADE) Accreditation process is more relevant and important than ever to the discussion of students' success and completion of meaningful credentials. In the current politically-charged climate, NADE Accreditation helps programs demonstrate not only to themselves and their administrations, but…

Mars Science Laboratory Workstation Test Set

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Henriquez, David A.; Canham, Timothy K.; Chang, Johnny T.; Villaume, Nathaniel

2009-01-01

The Mars Science Laboratory developed the Workstation TestSet (WSTS) is a computer program that enables flight software development on virtual MSL avionics. The WSTS is the non-real-time flight avionics simulator that is designed to be completely software-based and run on a workstation class Linux PC.

24 CFR 585.4 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... who has dropped out of high school,” “institution of higher education,” “limited-English proficiency... (including States, units of general local government, and Indian Tribes) eligible to provide education and... who have completed the full-time education/on-site training components of a Youthbuild program and who...

24 CFR 585.4 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... who has dropped out of high school,” “institution of higher education,” “limited-English proficiency... (including States, units of general local government, and Indian Tribes) eligible to provide education and... who have completed the full-time education/on-site training components of a Youthbuild program and who...

78 FR 44100 - Privacy Act of 1974; System of Records

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-07-23

... monitoring training events, and DoD Financial Management certifications. DATES: This proposed action will be... time of completed trainings, educational level of civilian employees, and Financial Management (FM..., Operation of the DoD Financial Management Certification Program. Purpose(s): To manage and administer a...

77 FR 12036 - Proposed Information Collection; Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-02-28

... helps to ensure that requested data can be provided in the desired format, reporting burden (time and... submitted by colleges and universities that provide incentives for AmeriCorps alumni such as matching or... AmeriCorps program. Completion of this information collection is required for colleges and universities...

Locomotor training using an overground robotic exoskeleton in long-term manual wheelchair users with a chronic spinal cord injury living in the community: Lessons learned from a feasibility study in terms of recruitment, attendance, learnability, performance and safety.

PubMed

Gagnon, Dany H; Escalona, Manuel J; Vermette, Martin; Carvalho, Lívia P; Karelis, Antony D; Duclos, Cyril; Aubertin-Leheudre, Mylène

2018-03-01

For individuals who sustain a complete motor spinal cord injury (SCI) and rely on a wheelchair as their primary mode of locomotion, overground robotic exoskeletons represent a promising solution to stand and walk again. Although overground robotic exoskeletons have gained tremendous attention over the past decade and are now being transferred from laboratories to clinical settings, their effects remain unclear given the paucity of scientific evidence and the absence of large-scale clinical trials. This study aims to examine the feasibility of a locomotor training program with an overground robotic exoskeleton in terms of recruitment, attendance, and drop-out rates as well as walking performance, learnability, and safety. Individuals with a SCI were invited to participate in a 6 to 8-week locomotor training program with a robotic exoskeleton encompassing 18 sessions. Selected participants underwent a comprehensive screening process and completed two familiarization sessions with the robotic exoskeleton. The outcome measures were the rate of recruitment of potential participants, the rate of attendance at training sessions, the rate of drop-outs, the ability to walk with the exoskeleton, and its progression over the program as well as the adverse events. Out of 49 individuals who expressed their interest in participating in the study, only 14 initiated the program (recruitment rate = 28.6%). Of these, 13 individuals completed the program (drop-out rate = 7.1%) and attended 17.6 ± 1.1 sessions (attendance rate = 97.9%). Their greatest standing time, walking time, and number of steps taken during a session were 64.5 ± 10.2 min, 47.2 ± 11.3 min, and 1843 ± 577 steps, respectively. During the training program, these last three parameters increased by 45.3%, 102.1%, and 248.7%, respectively. At the end of the program, when walking with the exoskeleton, most participants required one therapist (85.7%), needed stand-by or contact-guard assistance (57.1%), used forearm crutches (71.4%), and reached a walking speed of 0.25 ± 0.05 m/s. Five participants reported training-related pain or stiffness in the upper extremities during the program. One participant sustained bilateral calcaneal fractures and stopped the program. This study confirms that larger clinical trials investigating the effects of a locomotor training program with an overground robotic exoskeleton are feasible and relatively safe in individuals with complete motor SCI. Moreover, to optimize the recruitment rate and safety in future trials, this study now highlights the need of developing pre-training rehabilitation programs to increase passive lower extremity range of motion and standing tolerance. This study also calls for the development of clinical practice guidelines targeting fragility fracture risk assessment linked to the use of overground robotic exoskeletons.

Improved Multi-Axial, Temperature and Time Dependent (MATT) Failure Model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Richardson, D. E.; Anderson, G. L.; Macon, D. J.

2002-01-01

An extensive effort has recently been completed by the Space Shuttle's Reusable Solid Rocket Motor (RSRM) nozzle program to completely characterize the effects of multi-axial loading, temperature and time on the failure characteristics of three filled epoxy adhesives (TIGA 321, EA913NA, EA946). As part of this effort, a single general failure criterion was developed that accounted for these effects simultaneously. This model was named the Multi- Axial, Temperature, and Time Dependent or MATT failure criterion. Due to the intricate nature of the failure criterion, some parameters were required to be calculated using complex equations or numerical methods. This paper documents some simple but accurate modifications to the failure criterion to allow for calculations of failure conditions without complex equations or numerical techniques.

Hospital-based versus hybrid cardiac rehabilitation program in coronary bypass surgery patients in western Iran: effects on exercise capacity, risk factors, psychological factors, and quality of life.

PubMed

Najafi, Farid; Nalini, Mahdi

2015-01-01

The efficacy of alternative delivery models for a cardiac rehabilitation program (CRP) in low- and middle-income countries is not well documented. This study compared the traditional hospital-based CRP with a hybrid CRP in western Iran. This observational study was conducted with postcoronary surgery patients in Imam-Ali Hospital in Kermanshah, Iran. Both program models included 2 phases: (1) a common preliminary phase (2-4 weeks) involving exercise training and a plan to control cardiac risk factors; and (2) a complementary phase (8 weeks) consisting of group educational classes and exercise training conducted 3 times a week in the hospital or once a week accompanied by phone calls in the hybrid program. Changes in exercise capacity, blood pressure, lipids, resting heart rate, body mass index, waist circumference, smoking, depression, anxiety, and quality of life as well as differences in attendance at hospital sessions were investigated. From a total of 887 patients, 780 (87.9%) completed the programs. There was no association between course completion and type of CRP. Mean age of patients completing the programs was 55.6 ± 8.7 years and 23.8% were female. The hospital-based (n = 585) and hybrid (n = 195) programs resulted in a significant increase in exercise capacity (P < .001 for both). Additional improvements in other outcomes were noted and attendance rates were similar in both CRPs. A well-designed hybrid CRP can be a viable alternative for hospital-based CRP in low- and middle-income countries where there are no appropriate health facilities in remote areas.

The effect of recovery time on strength performance following a high-intensity bench press workout in males and females.

PubMed

Judge, Lawrence W; Burke, Jeanmarie R

2010-06-01

To determine the effects of training sessions, involving high-resistance, low-repetition bench press exercise, on strength recovery patterns, as a function of gender and training background. The subjects were 12 athletes (6 males and 6 females) and age-matched college students of both genders (4 males and 4 females). The subjects completed a 3-wk resistance training program involving a bench press exercise, 3 d/wk, to become familiar with the testing procedure. After the completion of the resistance training program, the subjects, on three consecutive weeks, participated in two testing sessions per week, baseline session and recovery session. During the testing sessions, subjects performed five sets of the bench press exercise at 50% to 100% of perceived five repetition maximum (5-RM). Following the weekly baseline sessions, subjects rested during a 4-, 24-, or 48-h recovery period. Strength measurements were estimates of one repetition maximum (1-RM), using equivalent percentages for the number of repetitions completed by the subject at the perceived 5-RM effort of the bench press exercise. The full-factorial ANOVA model revealed a Gender by Recovery Period by Testing Session interaction effect, F(2, 32) = 10.65; P < .05. Among male subjects, decreases in estimated 1-RM were detected at the 4- and 24-h recovery times. There were no differences in muscle strength among the female subjects, regardless of recovery time. For bench press exercises, using different recovery times of 48 h for males and 4 h for females may optimize strength development as a function of gender.

Streamlining your demulsification program

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

Svetgoff, J.

1989-09-01

According to this article, demulsification should be viewed as a wide reaching concept that takes into consideration many factors. These include: oil quality, water quality, effect of solids on the demulsification process, consideration of the completeness of the dehydration process, consideration of the most effective use of surface equipment, the use of heat, and cost of the demulsification program. The author discusses how the best demulsification program results in the synergistic use of heat, demulsifier chemicals, electricity, and retention time to provide clean oil and clean water with minimum treating system problems. In addition, these goals should be accomplished atmore » a reasonable cost. However, the amount of heat, chemicals, electricity, or retention time used in a program should not be reduced to the bare minimum. A slight excess of each is necessary to ensure a trouble-free program in most oil field systems. If a producer tries to operate on the ragged edge as far as system resources are concerned, upsets will occur because of the ever-changing nature of oil field systems.« less

System IDentification Programs for AirCraft (SIDPAC)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morelli, Eugene A.

2002-01-01

A collection of computer programs for aircraft system identification is described and demonstrated. The programs, collectively called System IDentification Programs for AirCraft, or SIDPAC, were developed in MATLAB as m-file functions. SIDPAC has been used successfully at NASA Langley Research Center with data from many different flight test programs and wind tunnel experiments. SIDPAC includes routines for experiment design, data conditioning, data compatibility analysis, model structure determination, equation-error and output-error parameter estimation in both the time and frequency domains, real-time and recursive parameter estimation, low order equivalent system identification, estimated parameter error calculation, linear and nonlinear simulation, plotting, and 3-D visualization. An overview of SIDPAC capabilities is provided, along with a demonstration of the use of SIDPAC with real flight test data from the NASA Glenn Twin Otter aircraft. The SIDPAC software is available without charge to U.S. citizens by request to the author, contingent on the requestor completing a NASA software usage agreement.

Regenerative Fuel Cell System Testbed Program for Government and Commercial Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1996-01-01

NASA Lewis Research Center's Electrochemical Technology Branch has led a multiagency effort to design, fabricate, and operate a regenerative fuel cell (RFC) system testbed. Key objectives of this program are to evaluate, characterize, and demonstrate fully integrated RFC's for space, military, and commercial applications. The Lewis-led team is implementing the program through a unique international coalition that encompasses both Government and industry participants. Construction of the 25-kW RFC testbed at the NASA facility at Edwards Air Force Base was completed in January 1995, and the system has been operational since that time.

49 CFR 381.510 - May the FMCSA end a pilot program before its scheduled completion date?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 49 Transportation 5 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false May the FMCSA end a pilot program before its scheduled completion date? 381.510 Section 381.510 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to... Pilot Programs § 381.510 May the FMCSA end a pilot program before its scheduled completion date? The...

49 CFR 381.510 - May the FMCSA end a pilot program before its scheduled completion date?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 49 Transportation 5 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false May the FMCSA end a pilot program before its scheduled completion date? 381.510 Section 381.510 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to... Pilot Programs § 381.510 May the FMCSA end a pilot program before its scheduled completion date? The...

Clinical Supervision of Athletic Training Students at Colleges and Universities Needs Improvement

PubMed Central

Weidner, Thomas G.; Pipkin, Jennifer

2002-01-01

Objectives: To assess the type and amount of clinical supervision athletic training students received during clinical education. Design and Setting: An online survey was conducted with a questionnaire developed specifically for this study. Subjects: Head athletic trainers from National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I (28), Division II (34), and Division III institutions (30). Thirty-four represented Commission on the Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs-accredited athletic training education programs, 20 represented athletic training programs in Joint Review Commission on Athletic Training candidacy, and 35 offered the internship route. Measurements: Descriptive statistics were computed. Three sets of chi-square analyses were completed to assess associations among athletic training students with first-responder qualifications, program and institution characteristics, certified athletic trainer medical coverage of moderate- and increased-risk sports, and clinical supervision. A trend analysis of students' class standing and time spent in different types of clinical supervision was also completed. The alpha level was set at < .05. Results: Most of the athletic training students (83.7%), particularly in accredited programs, had first-responder qualifications. More than half of the head athletic trainers (59.8%) indicated that athletic training students were authorized to provide medical care coverage without supervision. A minimal amount of medical care coverage of moderate- and increased-risk sports was unsupervised. No significant difference between the size of the education or athletic program and type and amount of clinical supervision was noted. Freshman athletic training students spent more time in direct clinical supervision and less time in unsupervised experience, but the opposite was true for senior students. Conclusions: Athletic training students are being utilized beyond appropriate clinical supervision and the scope of clinical education. Future research should employ methods using nonparticipant observation of clinical instructors' supervision of students as well as students' own perceptions of their clinical supervision. PMID:12937552

China's Primary Programs of Terrestrial Ecosystem Restoration: Initiation, Implementation, and Challenges

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yin, Runsheng; Yin, Guiping

2010-03-01

China has undertaken several major programs of terrestrial ecosystem restoration (ERPs) in recent years, including the Natural Forest Protection Program (NFPP) and the Sloping Land Conversion Program (SLCP). There have been reports on the implementation of these programs, their preliminary impacts, and the problems encountered in carrying them out; a great deal has been learned from these studies. Nonetheless, China’s ERPs are not limited to the NFPP and the SLCP. Because a complete documentation and a timely update of these major efforts are still missing from the literature, it is difficult to gauge the scope of these programs and the scale of their impacts. In addition, a more thorough and critical analysis of both the general ERP policy and the specific technical measures used in implementing the ERPs remains urgently needed. The purpose of this article is to tackle these tasks. Overall, with the huge government investments in the ERPs, tremendous progress has been made in implementing them. To complete them successfully and to fundamentally improve the targeted ecosystems, however, it is essential for China to have a more balanced and comprehensive approach to ecological restoration. This approach must include: adopting better planning and management practices; strengthening the governance of program implementation; emphasizing the active engagement of local people; establishing an independent, competent monitoring network; and conducting adequate assessments of program effectiveness and impact.

Promoting Ocean Literacy through American Meteorological Society Programs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Passow, Michael; Abshire, Wendy; Weinbeck, Robert; Geer, Ira; Mills, Elizabeth

2017-04-01

American Meteorological Society Education Programs provide course materials, online and physical resources, educator instruction, and specialized training in ocean, weather, and climate sciences (https://www.ametsoc.org/ams/index.cfm/education-careers/education-program/k-12-teachers/). Ocean Science literacy efforts are supported through the Maury Project, DataStreme Ocean, and AMS Ocean Studies. The Maury Project is a summer professional development program held at the US Naval Academy designed to enhance effective teaching of the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics of oceanography. DataStreme Ocean is a semester-long course offered twice a year to participants nationwide. Created and sustained with major support from NOAA, DS Ocean explores key concepts in marine geology, physical and chemical oceanography, marine biology, and climate change. It utilizes electronically-transmitted text readings, investigations and current environmental data. AMS Ocean Studies provides complete packages for undergraduate courses. These include online textbooks, investigations manuals, RealTime Ocean Portal (course website), and course management system-compatible files. It can be offered in traditional lecture/laboratory, completely online, and hybrid learning environments. Assistance from AMS staff and other course users is available.

Implementation of CDC's School Health Index in 3 midwest middle schools: motivation for change.

PubMed

Sherwood-Puzzello, Catherine M; Miller, Michelle; Lohrmann, David; Gregory, Patricia

2007-08-01

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's School Health Index (SHI), a guide for completing a coordinated school-based program needs assessment relative to healthy eating, physical activity, a tobacco-free lifestyle, and prevention of other health risk behaviors and conditions, was used to assess current programming at 3 midwestern middle schools. Employing somewhat different procedures, data were collected from focus groups comprising school administrators, teachers, parents, community members, and students. Participants responded to SHI module questions and provided comments based on their perceptions. Both quantitative and qualitative data were recorded for each module, after which participants answered 3 planning questions intended to guide prioritization of actions to improve policies and programs based on importance, cost, time, commitment, and feasibility. Each school developed recommendations and strategies based on highest priority needs related to community involvement, professional development, health screenings, and health education materials in classrooms. The experience of completing the SHI in 3 different schools provided important insights about the data collection process as well as assessment results that have implications for the design and implementation of prevention programs.

UpStart Parent Survey-Prenatal: A New Tool for Evaluating Prenatal Education Programs.

PubMed

Benzies, Karen M; Barker, Leslie; Churchill, Jocelyn; Smith, Jennifer; Horn, Sarah

2016-09-01

To evaluate a new prenatal education program evaluation tool, the UpStart Parent Survey - Prenatal, in terms of: (a) reliability and validity; (b) sensitivity to change over time; (c) whether results differed for mothers versus fathers; and (d) whether results differed when using an electronic tablet-computer versus a paper survey. Psychometric study. Participants were 277 expectant mothers (n = 161) and fathers (n = 106) enrolled in Childbirth Essentials, a 6-week prenatal education program. The UpStart Parent Survey - Prenatal is a retrospective pretest/posttest survey with three scales: Parenting Knowledge, Parenting Experience, and Program Satisfaction, and three open-ended questions. The UpStart Parent Survey - Prenatal is sensitive to change and demonstrated significant positive differences in parenting knowledge and parenting experience. There was no difference in results whether the survey was completed by mothers or fathers. Results were similar whether paper or electronic formats were used. The survey was easy to complete. The UpStart Parent Survey - Prenatal holds promise as a reliable and valid evaluation tool to capture outcomes of brief prenatal education programs that target the general population of expectant parents. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Ophthalmology resident surgical competency: a national survey.

PubMed

Binenbaum, Gil; Volpe, Nicholas J

2006-07-01

To describe the prevalence, management, and career outcomes of ophthalmology residents who struggle with surgical competency and to explore related educational issues. Fourteen-question written survey. Fifty-eight program directors at Accreditation Council on Graduate Medical Education-accredited, United States ophthalmology residency programs, representing a total of 2179 resident graduates, between 1991 and 2000. Study participants completed a mailed, anonymous survey whose format combined multiple choice and free comment questions. Number of surgically challenged residents, types of problems identified, types of remediation, final departmental decision at the end of residency, known career outcomes, and residency program use of microsurgical skills laboratories and applicant screening tests. One hundred ninety-nine residents (9% overall; 10% mean per program) were labeled as having trouble mastering surgical skills. All of the programs except 2 had encountered such residents. The most frequently cited problems were poor hand-eye coordination (24%) and poor intraoperative judgment (22%). Most programs were supportive and used educational rather than punitive measures, the most common being extra practice-laboratory time (32%), scheduling cases with the best teaching surgeon (23%), and counseling (21%). Nearly one third (31%) of residents were believed to have overcome their difficulties before graduation. Other residents were encouraged to pursue medical ophthalmology (22%) or to obtain further surgical training through a fellowship (21%) or a supervised practice setting (12%); these residents were granted a departmental statement of satisfactory completion of residency for Board eligibility. Twelve percent were asked to leave residency. Of reported career outcomes, 92% of residents were practicing ophthalmology, 65% as surgical and 27% as medical ophthalmologists. Ninety-eight percent of residency programs had microsurgical practice facilities, 64% had a formal teaching course, and 36% had mandatory practice time. Most programs (76%) did not perform applicant vision or dexterity screening tests; questions existed about the legality and validity of such tests. The issue of ophthalmology residents who struggle to develop surgical competency appears common. Although many problems appear to be remediable with time, practice, and dedicated, patient teachers, more specific guidelines for a statement of surgical competency are likely necessary to standardize the Board certification process.

The Effect of a Zoo-Based Experiential Academic Science Program on High School Students' Math and Science Achievement and Perceptions of School Climate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mulkerrin, Elizabeth A.

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of an 11th-grade and 12th-grade zoo-based academic high school experiential science program compared to a same school-district school-based academic high school experiential science program on students' pretest and posttest science, math, and reading achievement, and student perceptions of program relevance, rigor, and relationships. Science coursework delivery site served as the study's independent variable for the two naturally formed groups representing students (n = 18) who completed a zoo-based experiential academic high school science program and students (n = 18) who completed a school-based experiential academic high school science program. Students in the first group, a zoo-based experiential academic high school science program, completed real world, hands-on projects at the zoo while students in the second group, those students who completed a school-based experiential academic high school science program, completed real world, simulated projects in the classroom. These groups comprised the two research arms of the study. Both groups of students were selected from the same school district. The study's two dependent variables were achievement and school climate. Achievement was analyzed using norm-referenced 11th-grade pretest PLAN and 12th-grade posttest ACT test composite scores. Null hypotheses were rejected in the direction of improved test scores for both science program groups---students who completed the zoo-based experiential academic high school science program (p < .001) and students who completed the school-based experiential academic high school science program (p < .001). The posttest-posttest ACT test composite score comparison was not statistically different ( p = .93) indicating program equipoise for students enrolled in both science programs. No overall weighted grade point average score improvement was observed for students in either science group, however, null hypotheses were rejected in the direction of improved science grade point average scores for 11th-grade (p < .01) and 12th-grade (p = .01) students who completed the zoo-based experiential academic high school science program. Null hypotheses were not rejected for between group posttest science grade point average scores and school district criterion reference math and reading test scores. Finally, students who completed the zoo-based experiential academic high school science program had statistically improved pretest-posttest perceptions of program relationship scores (p < .05) and compared to students who completed the school-based experiential academic high school science program had statistically greater posttest perceptions of program relevance (p < .001), perceptions of program rigor (p < .001), and perceptions of program relationships (p < .001).

Turbulence Model Effects on Cold-Gas Lateral Jet Interaction in a Supersonic Crossflow

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-06-01

performance computing time from the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) High Performance Computing Modernization program at the U.S. Army Research Laboratory... time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the...thanks Dr. Ross Chaplin , Defence Science Technology Laboratory, United Kingdom (UK), and Dr. David MacManus and Robert Christie, Cranfield University, UK

Central Visual Prosthesis With Interface at the Lateral Geniculate Nucleus

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-07-01

burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching...currently used in the field to implant Deep Brain Stimulation electrodes. Page 4 We thus limited ourselves to using a ‘4 French’ size split sheath...this program. At this time , several approaches for realizing the complete system have been evaluated. Initially, a very simple mechanical mockup

VTI Driving Simulator: Mathematical Model of a Four-wheeled Vehicle for Simulation in Real Time. VTI Rapport 267A.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nordmark, Staffan

1984-01-01

This report contains a theoretical model for describing the motion of a passenger car. The simulation program based on this model is used in conjunction with an advanced driving simulator and run in real time. The mathematical model is complete in the sense that the dynamics of the engine, transmission and steering system is described in some…

Impossible Certainty: Cost Risk Analysis for Air Force Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-01-01

the estimated cost of weapon systems , which typically take many years to acquire and remain in operation for a long time . To make those esti- mates... times , uncertain, undefined, or unknown when estimates are prepared. New system development may involve further uncer- tainty due to unproven or...risk (a system requiring more money to complete than was forecasted ) and opera- tional risk (a vital capability becoming unaffordable as the program

An expert system for the design of heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Camejo, Pedro Jose

1989-12-01

Expert systems are computer programs that seek to mimic human reason. An expert system shelf, a software program commonly used for developing expert systems in a relatively short time, was used to develop a prototypical expert system for the design of heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems in buildings. Because HVAC design involves several related knowledge domains, developing an expert system for HVAC design requires the integration of several smaller expert systems known as knowledge bases. A menu program and several auxiliary programs for gathering data, completing calculations, printing project reports, and passing data between the knowledge bases are needed and have been developed to join the separate knowledge bases into one simple-to-use program unit.

COMMAND: A FORTRAN program for simplified composite analysis and design. [computerized design of multilayered composite panels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vanderplaats, G. N.

1976-01-01

A FORTRAN program is presented for preliminary analysis and design of multilayered composite panels subjected to inplane loads. All plys are of the same material. The composite is assumed symmetric about the midplane, but need not be balanced. Failure criterion includes limit ply strains and lower bounds on composite inplane stiffnesses. Multiple load conditions are considered. The required input data is defined and examples are provided to aid the use in making the program operational. Average panel design times are two seconds on an IBM 360/67 computer. Results are compared with published literature. A complete FORTRAN listing of program COMAND is provided. In addition, the optimization program CONMIN is required for design.

Association of Maternal and Community Factors With Enrollment in Home Visiting Among At-Risk, First-Time Mothers

PubMed Central

Hall, Eric S.; Jones, David E.; Meinzen-Derr, Jareen K.; Short, Jodie A.; Ammerman, Robert T.; Van Ginkel, Judith B.

2014-01-01

Objectives. We identified individual and contextual factors associated with referral and enrollment in home visiting among at-risk, first-time mothers. Methods. We retrospectively studied referral and enrollment in a regional home visiting program from 2007 to 2009 in Hamilton County, Ohio. Using linked vital statistics and census tract data, we obtained individual and community measures on first-time mothers meeting eligibility criteria for home visiting (low income, unmarried, or age < 18 years). Generalized linear modeling was performed to determine factors associated with relative risk (RR) of (1) referral to home visiting among eligible mothers and (2) enrollment after referral. Results. Of 8187 first-time mothers eligible for home visiting, 2775 were referred and 1543 were enrolled. Among referred women, high school completion (RR = 1.10) and any college (RR = 1.17) compared with no high school completion were associated with increased enrollment, and enrollment was less likely for those living in communities with higher socioeconomic deprivation (RR = 0.71; P < .05). Conclusions. Barriers to enrollment in home visiting persisted at multiple ecological levels. Ongoing evaluation of enrollment in at-risk populations is critical as home visiting programs are implemented and expanded. PMID:24354835

Reliability of an interactive computer program for advance care planning.

PubMed

Schubart, Jane R; Levi, Benjamin H; Camacho, Fabian; Whitehead, Megan; Farace, Elana; Green, Michael J

2012-06-01

Despite widespread efforts to promote advance directives (ADs), completion rates remain low. Making Your Wishes Known: Planning Your Medical Future (MYWK) is an interactive computer program that guides individuals through the process of advance care planning, explaining health conditions and interventions that commonly involve life or death decisions, helps them articulate their values/goals, and translates users' preferences into a detailed AD document. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate that (in the absence of major life changes) the AD generated by MYWK reliably reflects an individual's values/preferences. English speakers ≥30 years old completed MYWK twice, 4 to 6 weeks apart. Reliability indices were assessed for three AD components: General Wishes; Specific Wishes for treatment; and Quality-of-Life values (QoL). Twenty-four participants completed the study. Both the Specific Wishes and QoL scales had high internal consistency in both time periods (Knuder Richardson formula 20 [KR-20]=0.83-0.95, and 0.86-0.89). Test-retest reliability was perfect for General Wishes (κ=1), high for QoL (Pearson's correlation coefficient=0.83), but lower for Specific Wishes (Pearson's correlation coefficient=0.57). MYWK generates an AD where General Wishes and QoL (but not Specific Wishes) statements remain consistent over time.

Reliability of an Interactive Computer Program for Advance Care Planning

PubMed Central

Levi, Benjamin H.; Camacho, Fabian; Whitehead, Megan; Farace, Elana; Green, Michael J

2012-01-01

Abstract Despite widespread efforts to promote advance directives (ADs), completion rates remain low. Making Your Wishes Known: Planning Your Medical Future (MYWK) is an interactive computer program that guides individuals through the process of advance care planning, explaining health conditions and interventions that commonly involve life or death decisions, helps them articulate their values/goals, and translates users' preferences into a detailed AD document. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate that (in the absence of major life changes) the AD generated by MYWK reliably reflects an individual's values/preferences. English speakers ≥30 years old completed MYWK twice, 4 to 6 weeks apart. Reliability indices were assessed for three AD components: General Wishes; Specific Wishes for treatment; and Quality-of-Life values (QoL). Twenty-four participants completed the study. Both the Specific Wishes and QoL scales had high internal consistency in both time periods (Knuder Richardson formula 20 [KR-20]=0.83–0.95, and 0.86–0.89). Test-retest reliability was perfect for General Wishes (κ=1), high for QoL (Pearson's correlation coefficient=0.83), but lower for Specific Wishes (Pearson's correlation coefficient=0.57). MYWK generates an AD where General Wishes and QoL (but not Specific Wishes) statements remain consistent over time. PMID:22512830

77 FR 47399 - Funding Opportunity: Tribal Self-Governance Program; Planning Cooperative Agreement

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-08-08

... timely and efficient. Planning helps to identify issues in advance and ensures that the Tribe is fully... and financial management capability. Applicants are required to submit complete annual audit reports... the Planning Cooperative Agreement, the Tribe has had no uncorrected significant and material audit...

Loran-C flight test software

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nickum, J. D.

1978-01-01

The software package developed for the KIM-1 Micro-System and the Mini-L PLL receiver to simplify taking flight test data is described along with the address and data bus buffers used in the KIM-1 Micro-system. The interface hardware and timing are also presented to describe completely the software programs.

Right on Target

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Henderson, Nancy

2008-01-01

This article features the Target Community and Educational Services program, a salaried arrangement that allows students at McDaniel College to complete their studies while living with, and managing, clients with developmental disabilities. In what is believed to be the only arrangement of its kind in the U.S., full-time graduate students agree to…

40 CFR 60.2655 - How do I renew my lapsed operator qualification?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE FOR NEW STATIONARY SOURCES Emissions Guidelines and Compliance Times for Commercial and Industrial Solid Waste Incineration Units Model Rule-Operator Training...) For a lapse of less than 3 years, you must complete a standard annual refresher course described in...

40 CFR 60.2655 - How do I renew my lapsed operator qualification?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE FOR NEW STATIONARY SOURCES Emissions Guidelines and Compliance Times for Commercial and Industrial Solid Waste Incineration Units Model Rule-Operator Training...) For a lapse of less than 3 years, you must complete a standard annual refresher course described in...

EVALUATING DESIGN AND VERIFYING COMPLIANCE OF CREATED WETLANDS IN THE VICINITY OF TAMPA, FLORIDA

EPA Science Inventory

Completed mitigation projects are being studied by the Wetlands Research Program nationwide to identify critical design features, develop methods for evaluating projects, determine the functions they perform, and describe how they change with time. his report is the second in a s...

Dual Enrollment--An Opportunity for Acceleration of Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

DeLuca, James P.

1978-01-01

The chairman of the Department of Graphic Arts and Advertising Technology at New York City Community College describes the department's dual enrollment program, which offers qualified high school seniors the opportunity to take college courses in an occupational curriculum as part-time matriculated college students while completing their high…

Americorps NCCC

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Corporation for National and Community Service, 2017

2017-01-01

AmeriCorps NCCC (National Civilian Community Corps) is a full-time, team-based residential program for men and women ages 18-24. AmeriCorps NCCC members are assigned to one of five regional campuses into teams of approximately ten members and complete 2-3 month projects responding to local communities' needs throughout the United States. To…

Student Success Factors in Graduate Psychology Professional Programs

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Newhouse, Noelle K.; Cerniak, Jessica

2016-01-01

Research examining factors contributing to online students' success typically focuses on a single point in time or completion of a single course, as well as individual difference variables, such as learning style or motivation, that may predispose a student to succeed. However, research concerning longer term online student outcomes, such as…

Cockpit voice recognition program at Princeton University

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Huang, C. Y.

1983-01-01

Voice recognition technology (VRT) is applied to aeronautics, particularly on the pilot workload alleviation. The VRT does not have to prove its maturity any longer. The feasibility of voice tuning of radio and DME are demonstrated since there are immediate advantages to the pilot and can be completed in a reasonable time.

An interprofessional palliative care oncology rehabilitation program: effects on function and predictors of program completion.

PubMed

Chasen, M R; Feldstain, A; Gravelle, D; Macdonald, N; Pereira, J

2013-12-01

After treatment, patients with active cancer face a considerable burden from the effects of both the disease and its treatment. The Palliative Rehabilitation Program (prp) is designed to ameliorate disease effects and to improve the patient's functioning. The present study evaluated predictors of program completion and changes in functioning, symptoms, and well-being after the program. The program received referrals for 173 patients who had finished anticancer therapy. Of those 173 patients, 116 with advanced cancer were eligible and enrolled in the 8-week interprofessional prp; 67 completed it. Measures of physical, nutritional, social, and psychological functioning were evaluated at entry to the program and at completion. Participants experienced significant improvements in physical performance (p < 0.000), nutrition (p = 0.001), symptom severity (p = 0.005 to 0.001), symptom interference with functioning (p = 0.003 to 0.001), fatigue (p = 0.001), and physical endurance, mobility, and balance or function (p = 0.001 to 0.001). Reasons that participants did not complete the prp were disease progression, geographic inaccessibility, being too well (program not challenging enough), death, and personal or unknown reasons. A normal level of C-reactive protein (<10 mg/L, p = 0.029) was a predictor of program completion. Patients living with advanced cancers who underwent the interprofessional prp experienced significant improvement in functioning across several domains. Program completion can be predicted by a normal level of C-reactive protein.

Impact of Pharmacists’ Participation in a Pharmacotherapy Follow-Up Program

PubMed Central

Dualde, Elena; Santonja, Francisco J.; Faus, Maria J.

2012-01-01

Objective. To evaluate the impact of a continuing pharmacy education (CPE) course on Spanish community pharmacists’ participation in a pharmacotherapy follow-up program. Design. Participation in a CPE course offered 4 times over a 4-year period via satellite teleconferencing was monitored and the data analyzed to determine the course’s impact on community pharmacists’ participation in a pharmacotherapy follow-up program. Assessment. Community pharmacists’ participation in the pharmaceutical care CPE course had a slightly positive impact on their participation in the pharmacotherapy follow-up program. In the best profiles, there was a probability of 7.3% that participants would participate in the pharmacotherapy follow-up program. Conclusions. Completion of pharmaceutical care CPE courses did not have a significant impact on pharmacists’ participation in a pharmacotherapy follow-up program. PMID:22438606

Impact of a Dual PharmD/MBA Degree on Graduates' Academic Performance, Career Opportunities, and Earning Potential

PubMed Central

Chumney, Elinor C.G.; Jones, Kathy J.

2008-01-01

Objective To evaluate the academic experience and satisfaction of students who completed a dual PharmD/MBA degree program and the program's long-term impact on the students' career choice and earning potential. Methods GPAs, job placement, and starting job salaries were compared between graduates who completed the dual PharmD/MBA program and those who completed only the PharmD program. A satisfaction survey instrument was administered to 17 students who completed the dual PharmD/MBA degree program in May 2007. Data from a standardized job placement and starting salary survey instrument completed by all PharmD graduates were also obtained, as well as all students' final grade point averages (GPAs). GPAs, job placement, and starting job salaries were compared between graduates who had completed the dual PharmD/MBA program and those who had completed only the PharmD program. Results The graduating GPAs of dual-degree students were higher than those of both pharmacy (3.52 vs 3.41, p > 0.10) and business (3.82 vs. 3.68, p = 0.018) students not enrolled in the dual-degree program. Dual-degree students were slightly less likely to enter a residency (17% vs. 27%, p = 0.44) than other pharmacy graduates. Among those who elected not to pursue a residency, both mean starting salaries ($111,090 vs. $101,965) and mean total first-year compensation ($127,290 vs. $110,388) were significantly higher for dual-degree graduates compared to the PharmD graduates. Conclusions Students enrolled in the dual-degree program did slightly better academically than students who completed only the MBA or PharmD programs and indicated a high level of satisfaction with the program. Dual-degree graduates reported increased career opportunities and were slated to earn significantly more during their first year in the workforce. These results affirm continuation of our program and make the case for support of similar programs across the nation. PMID:18483594

Comparison of web-based and face-to-face interviews for application to an anesthesiology training program: a pilot study

PubMed Central

Malkin, Mathew R.; Lenart, John; Stier, Gary R.; Gatling, Jason W.; Applegate II, Richard L.

2016-01-01

Objectives This study compared admission rates to a United States anesthesiology residency program for applicants completing face-to-face versus web-based interviews during the admissions process. We also explored factors driving applicants to select each interview type. Methods The 211 applicants invited to interview for admission to our anesthesiology residency program during the 2014-2015 application cycle were participants in this pilot observational study. Of these, 141 applicants selected face-to-face interviews, 53 applicants selected web-based interviews, and 17 applicants declined to interview. Data regarding applicants' reasons for selecting a particular interview type were gathered using an anonymous online survey after interview completion. Residency program admission rates and survey answers were compared between applicants completing face-to-face versus web-based interviews. Results One hundred twenty-seven (75.1%) applicants completed face-to-face and 42 (24.9%) completed web-based interviews. The admission rate to our residency program was not significantly different between applicants completing face-to-face versus web-based interviews. One hundred eleven applicants completed post-interview surveys. The most common reasons for selecting web-based interviews were conflict of interview dates between programs, travel concerns, or financial limitations. Applicants selected face-to-face interviews due to a desire to interact with current residents, or geographic proximity to the residency program. Conclusions These results suggest that completion of web-based interviews is a viable alternative to completion of face-to-face interviews, and that choice of interview type does not affect the rate of applicant admission to the residency program. Web-based interviews may be of particular interest to applicants applying to a large number of programs, or with financial limitations. PMID:27039029

Identifying barriers to glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes after completion of an accredited education program.

PubMed

Gildea, Chris M; Lantaff, Wendy M; Olenik, Nicole L

The objective of this study was to identify patient-perceived barriers to achieving A1C targets after receiving instruction in an accredited diabetes education program. Qualitative research using semistructured interviews and thematic analyses. One pharmacist-run diabetes center located within an independent community pharmacy in a suburban region of southern Indiana. A total of 17 participants between the ages of 41-78 were interviewed in March and April 2016. Not applicable. Patient-perceived barriers to attaining glycemic control after completion of a pharmacist-taught diabetes self-management education (DSME) program accredited by the American Association of Diabetes Educators. Participants reported a variety of perceived barriers to glycemic control subsequent to the receipt of structured education. Seven major themes emerged: 1) health care provider factors; 2) self-identified indiscretions; 3) psychological barriers and poor social support; 4) knowledge deficits; 5) personal injury or adverse drug events; 6) time constraints and competing life demands; and 7) financial constraints. Participants reported a variety of perceived barriers to achieving A1C targets after completing DSME. Incorporation of solutions and coping mechanisms to these barriers into diabetes education programs may help patients attain glycemic control. Other factors may require individualized attention outside of DSME in follow-up episodes of diabetes care. Copyright © 2017 American Pharmacists Association®. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A modular finite-element model (MODFE) for areal and axisymmetric ground-water-flow problems, Part 3: Design philosophy and programming details

USGS Publications Warehouse

Torak, L.J.

1993-01-01

A MODular Finite-Element, digital-computer program (MODFE) was developed to simulate steady or unsteady-state, two-dimensional or axisymmetric ground-water-flow. The modular structure of MODFE places the computationally independent tasks that are performed routinely by digital-computer programs simulating ground-water flow into separate subroutines, which are executed from the main program by control statements. Each subroutine consists of complete sets of computations, or modules, which are identified by comment statements, and can be modified by the user without affecting unrelated computations elsewhere in the program. Simulation capabilities can be added or modified by either adding or modifying subroutines that perform specific computational tasks, and the modular-program structure allows the user to create versions of MODFE that contain only the simulation capabilities that pertain to the ground-water problem of interest. MODFE is written in a Fortran programming language that makes it virtually device independent and compatible with desk-top personal computers and large mainframes. MODFE uses computer storage and execution time efficiently by taking advantage of symmetry and sparseness within the coefficient matrices of the finite-element equations. Parts of the matrix coefficients are computed and stored as single-subscripted variables, which are assembled into a complete coefficient just prior to solution. Computer storage is reused during simulation to decrease storage requirements. Descriptions of subroutines that execute the computational steps of the modular-program structure are given in tables that cross reference the subroutines with particular versions of MODFE. Programming details of linear and nonlinear hydrologic terms are provided. Structure diagrams for the main programs show the order in which subroutines are executed for each version and illustrate some of the linear and nonlinear versions of MODFE that are possible. Computational aspects of changing stresses and boundary conditions with time and of mass-balance and error terms are given for each hydrologic feature. Program variables are listed and defined according to their occurrence in the main programs and in subroutines. Listings of the main programs and subroutines are given.

CLIVAR Mode Water Dynamics Experiment (CLIMODE), Fall 2006 R/V Oceanus Voyage 434, November 16, 2006-December 3, 2006

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-12-01

except for the dive zero time which needed to be programmed during the cruise when the deployment schedule dates were confirmed. _ ACM - Aanderaa ACM...guards bolted on to complete the frame prior to deployment. Sound Source - Sound sources were scheduled to be redeployed. Sound sources were originally...battery voltages and a vacuum. A +27 second time drift was noted and the time was reset. The sound source was scheduled to go to full power on November

Prior Work and Educational Experience Are Not Associated With Successful Completion of a Master's-Level, Distance Education Midwifery Program.

PubMed

Niemczyk, Nancy A; Cutts, Alison; Perlman, Dana B

2018-03-01

In order to increase and diversify the midwifery workforce, admissions criteria for midwifery education programs must not contain unnecessary barriers to entry. Once accepted, students need to successfully complete the program. Many admissions criteria commonly used in midwifery education programs in the United States are not evidence based and could be unnecessary barriers to education. The primary objective of this study was to identify factors known during the admission process that were related to successful completion or failure to complete a midwifery program educating both student nurse-midwives (SNMs) and student midwives (SMs); a secondary objective was to quantify reasons for program noncompletion. This master's-level, distance education program educates a diverse group of both SNMs and SMs. A pilot, retrospective cohort study examined all students matriculating at the program from fall 2012 on and scheduled to graduate by summer 2016 (N = 58). Demographic information, admissions information, academic records, and advising notes were reviewed. Reasons for noncompletion were identified, and characteristics were compared between students who did and did not complete the program. Program completion was not significantly associated with students' status as nurses prior to admission, labor and delivery nursing experience, length of nursing experience, nursing degree held, presence of children at home, working while in school, or undergraduate grade point average. Being a nurse, years of nursing experience, type of nursing degree, or labor and delivery nursing experience were not associated with completion of this midwifery program. © 2018 by the American College of Nurse-Midwives.

The researchers have left the building: what contributes to sustaining school-based interventions following the conclusion of formal research support?

PubMed

Friend, Sarah; Flattum, Colleen F; Simpson, Danielle; Nederhoff, Dawn M; Neumark-Sztainer, Dianne

2014-05-01

This study examined the sustainability of New Moves, a school-based program aimed at decreasing weight-related problems in adolescent girls. The National Cancer Institute recognizes New Moves as a research-tested intervention program that produced positive behavioral and psychosocial outcomes. Ten schools participated in the sustainability study. Teachers completed a survey and interview, and research staff observed 1 physical education (PE) class within 2 years of the study's completion. Qualitative data were grouped by themes. Frequencies were calculated using quantitative data. All schools continued all-girls PE classes using New Moves components following the study period. Fewer schools continued the nutrition and social support classroom modules and individual coaching sessions while no schools continued lunch get-togethers. Program components were sustained in both New Moves intervention schools and control schools. Programs are most likely to be sustained if they (1) fit into the current school structure, (2) receive buy-in by teachers, and (3) require minimal additional funds or staff time. Providing control schools with minimal training and intervention resources was sufficient to continue program components if staff perceived the program was important for students' health and compatible within the school's existing infrastructure. © 2014, American School Health Association.

All chain Loran-C time synchronization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sherman, H. T.

1973-01-01

A program is in progress to implement coordinated universal time (UTC) synchronization on all Loran-C transmissions. The present capability is limited to five Loran-C chains in which the tolerance is twenty-five microseconds with respect to UTC. Upon completion of the program, the transmissions of all Loran-C chains will be maintained within five microseconds of UTC. The improvement plan consists of equipping selected Loran-C transmitting stations for greater precision of frequency standard adjustment and improved monitoring capability. External time monitor stations will utilize television time transfer techniques with nearby SATCOM terminals where practicable, thus providing the requisite traceability to the Naval Observatory. The monitor equipment groups and the interrelationships with the ground station equipment are discussed. After a brief review of control doctrine, forth-coming improvements to transmitting stations and how the time monitor and navigation equipments will complement each other resulting in improved service to all users of the Loran-C system are described.

Revisit, revamp and revitalize your business plan: Part 4.

PubMed

Waldron, David

2011-01-01

A best practice for all imaging leaders working on a management development program should be to invest enough time to complete a detailed planthatsetsgoals, objectives, step targets, landmarks, and a timetable for their achievements. Keys to success for a management development program include no surprises, active participation, and preparation by both the facilitator and the managers involved. A successful management team will have trained staff and lean processes mapped and documented, as well as be comfortable in a coaching, delegating, and consensus management style.

Supporting mentors working with students with intellectual disabilities in higher education.

PubMed

Giust, Amanda M; Valle-Riestra, Diana M

2017-06-01

Project Panther LIFE is an inclusive postsecondary transition program for students with intellectual disabilities providing university access and participation with the primary goal of employment at program completion. Students in the program receive support from their academic mentors and peer coaches during the academic year. This study examines the skills and activities mentors use during their weekly sessions with students with intellectual disabilities and identifies areas in which mentors may require further support or training. Data analysis revealed major themes related to inclusion, self-determination, and adaptive behavior skills. Upon review of the data, we suggest that mentors need ongoing support from transition programs especially in areas related to encouraging self-advocacy and supporting time management.

The effectiveness of alternative planned durations of residential drug abuse treatment.

PubMed Central

McCusker, J; Vickers-Lahti, M; Stoddard, A; Hindin, R; Bigelow, C; Zorn, M; Garfield, F; Frost, R; Love, C; Lewis, B

1995-01-01

Randomized controlled trials were conducted at two residential drug abuse treatment facilities to compare programs that differed in planned duration. One trial compared a 6-month and a 12-month therapeutic community program (n = 184), and the second compared a 3-month and a 6-month relapse prevention program (n = 444). Retention rates over comparable time periods differed minimally by planned treatment duration, and the longer programs had lower completion rates. There was no effect in either trial of planned treatment duration on changes in psychosocial variables between admission and exit or on rates or patterns of drug use at follow-up between 2 and 6 months after exit. PMID:7573630

RAWINPROC: Computer program for decommutating, interpreting, and interpolating Rawinsonde meteorological balloon sounding data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Staffanson, F. L.

1981-01-01

The FORTRAN computer program RAWINPROC accepts output from NASA Wallops computer program METPASS1; and produces input for NASA computer program 3.0.0700 (ECC-PRD). The three parts together form a software system for the completely automatic reduction of standard RAWINSONDE sounding data. RAWINPROC pre-edits the 0.1-second data, including time-of-day, azimuth, elevation, and sonde-modulated tone frequency, condenses the data according to successive dwells of the tone frequency, decommutates the condensed data into the proper channels (temperature, relative humidity, high and low references), determines the running baroswitch contact number and computes the associated pressure altitudes, and interpolates the data appropriate for input to ACC-PRD.

Timely immunization completion among children in Vietnam from 2000 to 2011: a multilevel analysis of individual and contextual factors

PubMed Central

Minh An, Dao Thi; Lee, Jong-Koo; Van Minh, Hoang; Trang, Nguyen Thi Huyen; Thu Huong, Nguyen Thi; Nam, You-Seon; Van Dung, Do

2016-01-01

Background Since the beginning of 2014, there have been nearly 6,000 confirmed measles cases in northern Vietnam. Of these, more than 86% had neither been immunized nor was their vaccination status confirmed. Objective To establish the likelihood that children under five in Vietnam had ‘timely immunization completion’ (2000–2011) and identify factors that account for variations in timely immunization completion. Design Secondary data from the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS), which sampled women aged 15–49 from the 1999 Vietnamese Population and Housing Census frame, were analyzed. Multilevel analysis using Poisson regression was undertaken. Results Proportions of children under five who had timely immunization completion were low, especially for HBV dose 2 and HBV dose 3, which decreased between 2000 and 2011. Among seven vaccines used in the National Expanded Program of Immunization (EPI) in 2000, 2006, and 2011, measles dose 1 had the highest timely immunization completion at 65.3%, 66.7%, and 73.6%, respectively, and hepatitis B dose 1 had the lowest at 17.5%, 19.3%, and 45.5%, respectively. Timely immunization completion was less common among children whose mothers had relatively less household wealth, were from ethnic minorities, lived in rural areas, and had less education. At the community level, the child's region of residence was the main predictor of timely immunization completion, and the availability of hospital delivery and community prenatal care in the local community were also determinants. Conclusion The EPI should include ‘timely immunization completion’ as a quality indicator. There should also be greater focus and targeting in rural areas, and among women who have relatively low education, belong to minority groups, and have less household wealth. Further research on this topic using multilevel analysis is needed to better understand how these factors interact. PMID:26950555

The Effects of an Injury Prevention Program on Landing Biomechanics Over Time.

PubMed

DiStefano, Lindsay J; Marshall, Stephen W; Padua, Darin A; Peck, Karen Y; Beutler, Anthony I; de la Motte, Sarah J; Frank, Barnett S; Martinez, Jessica C; Cameron, Kenneth L

2016-03-01

Knowledge is limited regarding how long improvements in biomechanics remain after completion of a lower extremity injury prevention program. To evaluate the effects of an injury prevention program on movement technique and peak vertical ground-reaction forces (VGRF) over time compared with a standard warm-up (SWU) program. Controlled laboratory study. A total of 1104 incoming freshmen (age range, 17-22 years) at a military academy in the United States volunteered to participate. Participants were cluster-randomized by military company to either the Dynamic Integrated Movement Enhancement (DIME) injury prevention program or SWU. A random subsample of participants completed a standardized jump-landing task at each time point: immediately before the intervention (PRE), immediately after (POST), and 2 (POST2M), 4 (POST4M), 6 (POST6M), and 8 months (POST8M) after the intervention. VGRF data collected during the jump-landing task were normalized to body weight (%BW). The Landing Error Scoring System (LESS) was used to evaluate movement technique during the jump landing. The change scores (Δ) for each variable (LESS, VGRF) between the group's average value at PRE and each time point were calculated. Separate univariate analyses of variance were performed to evaluate group differences. The results showed a greater decrease in mean (±SD) VGRF in the DIME group compared with the SWU group at all retention time points: POST2M (SWU [Δ%BW], -0.13 ± 0.82; DIME, -0.62 ± 0.91; P = .001), POST4M (SWU, -0.15 ± 0.98; DIME,-0.46 ± 0.64; P = .04), POST6M (SWU, -0.04 ± 0.96; DIME, -0.53 ± 0.83; P = .004), and POST8M (SWU, 0.38 ± 0.95; DIME, -0.11 ± 0.98; P = .003), but there was not a significant improvement in the DIME group between PRE and POST8M (Δ%BW, -0.11 ± 0.98). No group differences in Δ LESS were observed. The study findings demonstrated that an injury prevention program performed as a warm-up can reduce vertical ground-reaction forces compared with a standard warm-up but a maintenance program is likely necessary in order for continued benefit. Injury prevention programs may need to be performed constantly, or at least every sport season, in order for participants to maintain the protective effects against injury. © 2016 The Author(s).

Combining of ETHOS Operating Ergonomic Platform, Three-dimensional Laparoscopic Camera, and Radius Surgical System Manipulators Improves Ergonomy in Urologic Laparoscopy: Comparison with Conventional Laparoscopy and da Vinci in a Pelvi Trainer.

PubMed

Tokas, Theodoros; Gözen, Ali Serdar; Avgeris, Margaritis; Tschada, Alexandra; Fiedler, Marcel; Klein, Jan; Rassweiler, Jens

2017-10-01

Posture, vision, and instrumentation limitations are the main predicaments of conventional laparoscopy. To combine the ETHOS surgical chair, the three-dimensional laparoscope, and the Radius Surgical System manipulators, and compare the system with conventional laparoscopy and da Vinci in terms of task completion times and discomfort. Fifteen trainees performed the three main laparoscopic suturing tasks of the Heilbronn training program (IV: simulation of dorsal venous complex suturing; V: circular suturing of tubular structure; and VI: urethrovesical anastomosis) in a pelvi trainer. The tasks were performed conventionally, utilizing the three devices, and robotically. Task completion times were recorded and the surgeon discomfort was evaluated using questionnaires. Task completion times were compared using nonparametric Wilcoxon signed rank test and ergonomic scores were compared using Pearson chi-square test. The use of the full laparoscopic set (ETHOS chair, three-dimensional laparoscopic camera, Radius Surgical System needle holders), resulted in a significant improvement of the completion time of the three tested tasks compared with conventional laparoscopy (p<0.001) and similar to da Vinci surgery. After completing Tasks IV, V, and VI conventionally, 12 (80%), 13 (86.7%), and 13 (86.7%) of the 15 trainees, respectively, reported heavy total discomfort. The full laparoscopic system nullified heavy discomfort for Tasks IV and V and minimized it (6.7%) for the most demanding Task VI. Especially for Task VI, all trainees gained benefit, by using the system, in terms of task completion times and discomfort. The limited trainee robotic experience and the questionnaire subjectivity could be a potential limitation. The ergonomic laparoscopic system offers significantly improved task completion times and ergonomy than conventional laparoscopy. Furthermore, it demonstrates comparable results to robotic surgery. The study was conducted in a pelvi trainer and no patients were recruited. Copyright © 2016 European Association of Urology. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Pilot study of a training program to enhance transformational leadership in Spinal Cord Injury Peer Mentors.

PubMed

Martin Ginis, Kathleen A; Shaw, Robert B; Stork, Matthew J; Battalova, Alfiya; McBride, Christopher B

2018-01-01

Experimental, pragmatic design. (1) To determine the effects of a transformational leadership (TFL) training program on spinal cord injury (SCI) peer mentors and their mentees; (2) To document characteristics of mentorship within a community-based SCI peer mentor program. In total 23 SCI peer mentors (70% male; M age = 47.4 ± 12.1) were randomly allocated to an Experimental or Control condition. Experimental condition mentors received a half-day TFL workshop and bi-weekly emailed information on using TFL in SCI peer mentorship. Sixteen SCI mentees (50% male; M age = 49.1 ± 12.9) enrolled in the study and 9 completed measures of self-efficacy and their mentors' use of TFL and supportiveness at 3 and 6-months. Mentors completed monthly reports of mentorship activities. Community-based peer mentorship program in British Columbia, Canada. There were no between-groups differences in mentee self-efficacy, mentor use of TFL or mentor supportiveness. In the Experimental condition only, total mentorship time and sessions were positively correlated with mentors' use of TFL and supportiveness. Mentorship occurred in-person, by phone, text, and email and mentors discussed an average of 11 topics. The intervention did not increase SCI peer mentors' use of TFL relative to a Control condition. Nevertheless, there may be merit in coaching SCI peer mentors to use TFL given the positive correlations between mentorship time and sessions, TFL use, and perceived supportiveness of the mentor. Although inherently challenging, research involving community-based SCI peer mentorship programs provides opportunities for scientists and community organizations to extend knowledge of peer mentorship beyond the context of hospital-based programs. Research supported by a SSHRC Partnership Development Grant.

Survey of Kidney Biopsy Clinical Practice and Training in the United States.

PubMed

Yuan, Christina M; Nee, Robert; Little, Dustin J; Narayan, Rajeev; Childs, John M; Prince, Lisa K; Raghavan, Rajeev; Oliver, James D

2018-05-07

Practicing clinical nephrologists are performing fewer diagnostic kidney biopsies. Requiring biopsy procedural competence for graduating nephrology fellows is controversial. An anonymous, on-line survey of all Walter Reed training program graduates ( n =82; 1985-2017) and all United States nephrology program directors ( n =149; August to October of 2017), regarding kidney biopsy practice and training, was undertaken. Walter Reed graduates' response and completion rates were 71% and 98%, respectively. The majority felt adequately trained in native kidney biopsy (83%), transplant biopsy (82%), and tissue interpretation (78%), with no difference for ≤10 versus >10 practice years. Thirty-five percent continued to perform biopsies (13% did ≥10 native biopsies/year); 93% referred at least some biopsies. The most common barriers to performing biopsy were logistics (81%) and time (74%). Program director response and completion rates were 60% and 77%. Seventy-two percent cited ≥1 barrier to fellow competence. The most common barriers were logistics (45%), time (45%), and likelihood that biopsy would not be performed postgraduation (41%). Fifty-one percent indicated that fellows should not be required to demonstrate minimal procedural competence in biopsy, although 97% agreed that fellows should demonstrate competence in knowing/managing indications, contraindications, and complications. Program directors citing ≥1 barrier or whose fellows did <50 native biopsies/year in total were more likely to think that procedural competence should not be required versus those citing no barriers ( P =0.02), or whose fellows performed ≥50 biopsies ( P <0.01). Almost two-thirds of graduate respondents from a single military training program no longer perform biopsy, and 51% of responding nephrology program directors indicated that biopsy procedural competence should not be required. These findings should inform discussion of kidney biopsy curriculum requirements. Copyright © 2018 by the American Society of Nephrology.

Subjective experiences of an art museum engagement activity for persons with early-stage Alzheimer's disease and their family caregivers.

PubMed

Flatt, Jason D; Liptak, Amy; Oakley, Mary Ann; Gogan, Jessica; Varner, Tresa; Lingler, Jennifer H

2015-06-01

To describe the subjective experiences of older adults with early-stage Alzheimer's disease or related cognitive disorders (ADRDs) and their family caregivers who participated in an art museum engagement activity. Four focus groups were conducted with 10 persons with ADRD and 10 family caregivers following the completion of a 1-time, 3-hour engagement activity. Participants also completed a brief satisfaction survey, and associations were examined using nonparametric statistics. Three key themes were identified: cognitive stimulation, social connections, and self-esteem. In addition, we identified programmatic issues such as activity-specific concerns and program logistics that could help improve future art program offerings. Past experience with art and perceived social cohesion were correlated with participants' overall satisfaction with the program. Efforts aimed at improving the quality of life of those with Alzheimer's disease and their family caregivers should consider the potential role of art museums. © The Author(s) 2014.

Goals Set After Completing a Teleconference-Delivered Program for Managing Multiple Sclerosis Fatigue

PubMed Central

Asano, Miho; Preissner, Katharine; Duffy, Rose; Meixell, Maggie

2015-01-01

Setting goals can be a valuable skill to self-manage multiple sclerosis (MS) fatigue. A better understanding of the goals set by people with MS after completing a fatigue management program can assist health care professionals with tailoring interventions for clients. This study aimed to describe the focus of goals set by people with MS after a teleconference-delivered fatigue management program and to evaluate the extent to which participants were able to achieve their goals over time. In total, 485 goals were set by 81 participants. Over a follow-up period, 64 participants rated 284 goals regarding progress made toward goal achievement. Approximately 50% of the rated goals were considered achieved. The most common type of goal achieved was that of instrumental activities of daily living. Short-term goals were more likely to be achieved. This study highlights the need for and importance of promoting and teaching goal-setting skills to people with MS. PMID:25871602

Subjective Experiences of an Art Museum Engagement Activity for Persons with Early Alzheimer’s disease and their Family Caregivers

PubMed Central

Flatt, Jason D.; Liptak, Amy; Oakley, Mary Ann; Gogan, Jessica; Varner, Tresa; Lingler, Jennifer H.

2014-01-01

Objective To describe the subjective experiences of older adults with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease or related cognitive disorders (ADRD) and their family caregivers who participated in an art museum engagement activity. Methods Four focus groups were conducted with 10 persons with ADRD and 10 family caregivers following the completion one-time, three hour engagement activity. Participants also completed a brief satisfaction survey, and associations were examined using nonparametric statistics. Results Three key themes were identified: cognitive stimulation, social connections, and a sense of self. In addition, we identified programmatic issues such as activity-specific concerns and program logistics that could help improve future art program offerings. Past experience with art and perceived social cohesion were correlated with participants’ overall satisfaction with the program. Discussion Efforts aimed at improving the quality of life of those with Alzheimer’s and their family caregivers should consider the potential role of art museums. PMID:25216658

Developing the Parachute System for NASA's Orion: An Overview at Inception

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Machin, Ricardo; Taylor, Anthony P.; Royall, Paul

2007-01-01

As the Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV) program developed, NASA decided to provide the parachute portion of the landing system as Government Furnished Equipment (GFE) and designated NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC) as the responsible NASA center based on JSC s past experience with the X-38 program. JSC subsequently chose to have the Engineering Support contractor Jacobs Sverdrup to manage the overall program development. After a detailed source selection process Jacobs chose Irvin Aerospace Inc (Irvin) to provide the parachutes and mortars for the CEV Parachute Assembly System (CPAS). Thus the CPAS development team, including JSC, Jacobs and Irvin has been formed. While development flight testing will have just begun at the time this paper is submitted, a number of significant design decisions relative to the architecture for the manned spacecraft will have been completed. This paper will present an overview of the approach CPAS is taking to providing the parachute system for CEV, including: system requirements, the preliminary design solution, and the planned/completed flight testing.

DIALIGN P: fast pair-wise and multiple sequence alignment using parallel processors.

PubMed

Schmollinger, Martin; Nieselt, Kay; Kaufmann, Michael; Morgenstern, Burkhard

2004-09-09

Parallel computing is frequently used to speed up computationally expensive tasks in Bioinformatics. Herein, a parallel version of the multi-alignment program DIALIGN is introduced. We propose two ways of dividing the program into independent sub-routines that can be run on different processors: (a) pair-wise sequence alignments that are used as a first step to multiple alignment account for most of the CPU time in DIALIGN. Since alignments of different sequence pairs are completely independent of each other, they can be distributed to multiple processors without any effect on the resulting output alignments. (b) For alignments of large genomic sequences, we use a heuristics by splitting up sequences into sub-sequences based on a previously introduced anchored alignment procedure. For our test sequences, this combined approach reduces the program running time of DIALIGN by up to 97%. By distributing sub-routines to multiple processors, the running time of DIALIGN can be crucially improved. With these improvements, it is possible to apply the program in large-scale genomics and proteomics projects that were previously beyond its scope.

Pyrame 3, an online framework for Calice SiW-Ecal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Magniette, F.; Irles, A.

2018-03-01

Pyrame 3 is the new version of the Pyrame framework [1], with emphasize on the online data treatment and the complex tasks scripting. A new mechanism has been implemented to allow any module to treat and publish data in real time. Those data are made available to any requesting module. A circular buffer mechanism allows to break the real-time constraint and to serve the slower programs in a generic subsampling way. On the other side, a programming facility called event-loop has been provided in C/C++ language to ease the development of monitoring programs. On the SiW-Ecal prototype, the acquisition chain launches a bunch of online decoders that makes available raw data plus some basic reconstruction data (true coordinate, true time, data quality tags\\ldots). With the event-loop, it is now really very easy to implement new online monitoring programs. On the other side, the scripting mechanism has been enhanced to provide complete control of the detector to the scripts. This way, we are able to script and monitor complex behaviours like position or energy scanning, calibrations or data driven reconfigurations.

Exploring the thesis experience of Master of Health professions education graduates: a qualitative study

PubMed Central

Skeith, Leslie; Srinivasan, Sushant; Givi, Babak; Youssef, Nazih; Harris, Ilene

2018-01-01

Objectives To explore the thesis experience of recent Master of Health Professions Education (MHPE) graduates in the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) program. Methods This is a qualitative case study exploring the experience of MHPE graduates between 2014 and 2016 (n=31). Using convenience sampling, all graduates with an email address (n=30) were invited to participate in an online survey and semi-structured interviews. Interviews were completed in-person or via telephone or video conference; interviewers collected detailed notes and audio recordings.  Two authors independently analyzed the data iteratively using thematic analysis and discrepancies were discussed and resolved. Results Survey results (n=20, 67%) revealed an average graduation of 5.1 years; 10 graduates (33%) were interviewed. Three themes related to the thesis experience were identified: success factors, challenges, and outcomes. Success factors, when present, promoted completion of a thesis; these included: a supportive program environment, time management, available resources, MHPE foundational coursework, aligning theses with career goals, and identifying a project with limited scope. Challenges made thesis completion more difficult for graduates; these included: institutional factors, personal or professional responsibilities, burnout, externally-imposed deadlines, and barriers in the research process. Despite these challenges, completing the thesis resulted in many professional or personal benefits (outcomes). Conclusions Multiple success factors and challenges were identified in the master’s thesis process among MHPE graduates at UIC. These findings can help students conducting education-based scholarship through the master’s thesis process. This study also informs program evaluation and improvements and outlines personal and professional outcomes of completing a master’s thesis. PMID:29705774

Exploring the thesis experience of Master of Health professions education graduates: a qualitative study.

PubMed

Skeith, Leslie; Ridinger, Heather; Srinivasan, Sushant; Givi, Babak; Youssef, Nazih; Harris, Ilene

2018-04-27

To explore the thesis experience of recent Master of Health Professions Education (MHPE) graduates in the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) program. This is a qualitative case study exploring the experience of MHPE graduates between 2014 and 2016 (n=31). Using convenience sampling, all graduates with an email address (n=30) were invited to participate in an online survey and semi-structured interviews. Interviews were completed in-person or via telephone or video conference; interviewers collected detailed notes and audio recordings.  Two authors independently analyzed the data iteratively using thematic analysis and discrepancies were discussed and resolved. Survey results (n=20, 67%) revealed an average graduation of 5.1 years; 10 graduates (33%) were interviewed. Three themes related to the thesis experience were identified: success factors, challenges, and outcomes. Success factors, when present, promoted completion of a thesis; these included: a supportive program environment, time management, available resources, MHPE foundational coursework, aligning theses with career goals, and identifying a project with limited scope. Challenges made thesis completion more difficult for graduates; these included: institutional factors, personal or professional responsibilities, burnout, externally-imposed deadlines, and barriers in the research process. Despite these challenges, completing the thesis resulted in many professional or personal benefits (outcomes). Multiple success factors and challenges were identified in the master's thesis process among MHPE graduates at UIC. These findings can help students conducting education-based scholarship through the master's thesis process. This study also informs program evaluation and improvements and outlines personal and professional outcomes of completing a master's thesis.

Columbia River Basin Fish and Wildlife Program Annual Implementation Work Plan for Fiscal Year 1992.

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

United States. Bonneville Power Administration; Northwest Power Planning Council; Columbia Basin Fish and Wildlife Authority

1991-09-01

The Columbia River Basin Fish and Wildlife Program (Program) was developed by the Northwest Power Planning Council (Council) in accordance with Public Law 96-501, the Pacific Northwest Electric Power Planning and Conservation Act (Act). The purpose of the Program is to guide the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) and other Federal agencies in carrying out their responsibilities to protect, mitigate, and enhance fish and wildlife of the Columbia River Basin. The Act explicitly gives BPA the authority and responsibility to use the BPA fund for these ends, to the extent that fish and wildlife are affected by the development and operationmore » of hydroelectric generation in the Columbia River Basin. The Columbia River Basin Fish and Wildlife Program Annual Implementation Work Plan (AIWP) presents BPA's plans for implementing the Program during Fiscal Year (FY) 1992. The AIWP reflects the primary goals of the Council's Action Plan (Section 1400 of the Program): to provide a solid, timely, and focused basis for budgeting and planning. In addition, the AIWP provides a means to judge the progress and the success of Program implementation. The AIWP is based on the outline developed by the Policy Review Group (PRG) during Step 1 of the annual cycle of the Implementation Planning Process (IPP), which is described in Section III. This AIWP has been organized and written to meet the specific needs of Program Action Items 10.1-10.3. The AIWP includes schedules with key milestones for FY 1992 and beyond, and addresses the Action Items assigned to BPA in Section 1400 of the 1987 Program and in subsequent amendments. All Program projects discussed in the AIWP are listed in Tables 1 and 2 according to their status as of May 21, 1991. Table 1 (pp. 3-14) lists completed, ongoing, and deferred projects. Table 2 (pp. 15-16) lists FY 1992 new-start projects. ''Ongoing'' status indicates that the project started in FY 1991 or before and that it is expected to continue through part or all of FY 1992. ''Deferred'' means that BPA implementation has been postponed to FY 1993 or later. ''Completed'' indicates completion during FY 1991. ''New'' denotes projects planned for BPA implementation in FY 1992. A number of projects are expected to begin in late FY 1991 and have been listed in Table 1 of the AIWP as ''Projected FY '91 Starts,'' based on their projected start dates. Several other projects are expected to end in late FY 1991. These projects have been listed in Table 1 as ''Projected FY '91 Completions,'' based on their projected completion dates.« less

A 2-Month Linear Periodized Resistance Exercise Training Improved Musculoskeletal Fitness and Specific Conditioning of Navy Cadets.

PubMed

Vantarakis, Antonios; Chatzinikolaou, Athanasios; Avloniti, Alexandra; Vezos, Nikolaos; Douroudos, Ioannis I; Draganidis, Dimitrios; Jamurtas, Athanasios Z; Kambas, Antonis; Kalligeros, Stamatios; Fatouros, Ioannis G

2017-05-01

Vantarakis, A, Chatzinikolaou, A, Avloniti, A, Vezos, N, Douroudos, II, Draganidis, D, Jamurtas, AΖ, Kambas, A, Kalligeros, S, and Fatouros, IG. A 2-month linear periodized resistance exercise training improved musculoskeletal fitness and specific conditioning of navy cadets. J Strength Cond Res 31(5): 1362-1370, 2017-Major objectives of army and navy training are the development of readiness, performance, and injury prevention. Numerous studies have examined the effect of specific strength training (ST) programs on performance of Special Forces and military personnel. Although navy personnel have to address on-board conditions that require the development of strength, agility, speed, and task-specific endurance, there is no information regarding the effects of ST on navy-specific performance. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of an 8-week ST on performance of navy cadets. Thirty-one cadets of the Hellenic Naval Academy volunteered to participate and were randomly assigned in 2 groups. Cadets in the Experimental Group participated in a linear periodized ST program in addition to their daily training schedule. Cadets in the control group participated only in pre- and post-measurements. Anthropometrics, maximal oxygen consumption, oxygen consumption during a Navy Obstacle Course (NOC), maximum strength in bench press and squat exercises, hand grip strength, repetitions in push-ups and abdominal test, time to complete a 30-m sprint, and time to complete NOC were measured before and after the intervention. A 2-way repeated-measures analysis of variance showed that ST induced favorable changes in bench press and squat 1 repetition maximum, push-ups, abdominal crunches, time to complete 30-m distance, and time to complete the NOC. These results indicate that an additional ST may induce positive alterations on readiness and performance of navy cadets. The study has the approval of university's institutional review board and ethical committee.

Inheriting the Learner's View: A Google Glass-Based Wearable Computing Platform for Improving Surgical Trainee Performance.

PubMed

Brewer, Zachary E; Fann, Hutchinson C; Ogden, W David; Burdon, Thomas A; Sheikh, Ahmad Y

2016-01-01

It is speculated that, in operative environments, real-time visualization of the trainee's viewpoint by the instructor may improve performance and teaching efficacy. We hypothesized that introduction of a wearable surgical visualization system allowing the instructor to visualize otherwise "blind" areas in the operative field could improve trainee performance in a simulated operative setting. A total of 11 surgery residents (4 in general surgery training and 7 in an integrated 6-year cardiothoracic surgery program) participated in the study. Google (Mountain View, CA) Glass hardware running proprietary software from CrowdOptic (San Francisco, CA) was utilized for creation of the wearable surgical visualization system. Both the learner and trainer wore the system, and video was streamed from the learner's system in real time to the trainer, who directed the learner to place needles in a simulated operative field. Subjects placed a total of 5 needles in each of 4 quadrants. A composite error score was calculated based on the accuracy of needle placement in relation to the intended needle trajectories as described by the trainer. Time to task completion (TTC) was also measured and participants completed an exit questionnaire. All residents completed the protocol tasks and the survey. Introduction of the wearable surgical visualization system did not affect mean time to task completion (278 ± 50 vs. 282 ± 69 seconds, p = NS). However, mean composite error score fell significantly once the wearable system was deployed (18 ± 5 vs. 15 ± 4, p < 0.05), demonstrating improved accuracy of needle placement. Most of the participants deemed the device unobtrusive, easy to operate, and useful for communication and instruction. This study suggests that wearable surgical visualization systems allowing for adoption of the learner's perspective may be a useful educational adjunct in the training of surgeons. Further evaluations of the efficacy of wearable technology in the operating room environment are warranted. Copyright © 2016 Association of Program Directors in Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Automatic calculation of supersymmetric renormalization group equations and loop corrections

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Staub, Florian

2011-03-01

SARAH is a Mathematica package for studying supersymmetric models. It calculates for a given model the masses, tadpole equations and all vertices at tree-level. This information can be used by SARAH to write model files for CalcHep/ CompHep or FeynArts/ FormCalc. In addition, the second version of SARAH can derive the renormalization group equations for the gauge couplings, parameters of the superpotential and soft-breaking parameters at one- and two-loop level. Furthermore, it calculates the one-loop self-energies and the one-loop corrections to the tadpoles. SARAH can handle all N=1 SUSY models whose gauge sector is a direct product of SU(N) and U(1) gauge groups. The particle content of the model can be an arbitrary number of chiral superfields transforming as any irreducible representation with respect to the gauge groups. To implement a new model, the user has just to define the gauge sector, the particle, the superpotential and the field rotations to mass eigenstates. Program summaryProgram title: SARAH Catalogue identifier: AEIB_v1_0 Program summary URL:http://cpc.cs.qub.ac.uk/summaries/AEIB_v1_0.html Program obtainable from: CPC Program Library, Queen's University, Belfast, N. Ireland Licensing provisions: Standard CPC licence, http://cpc.cs.qub.ac.uk/licence/licence.html No. of lines in distributed program, including test data, etc.: 97 577 No. of bytes in distributed program, including test data, etc.: 2 009 769 Distribution format: tar.gz Programming language: Mathematica Computer: All systems that Mathematica is available for Operating system: All systems that Mathematica is available for Classification: 11.1, 11.6 Nature of problem: A supersymmetric model is usually characterized by the particle content, the gauge sector and the superpotential. It is a time consuming process to obtain all necessary information for phenomenological studies from these basic ingredients. Solution method: SARAH calculates the complete Lagrangian for a given model whose gauge sector can be any direct product of SU(N) gauge groups. The chiral superfields can transform as any, irreducible representation with respect to these gauge groups and it is possible to handle an arbitrary number of symmetry breakings or particle rotations. Also the gauge fixing terms can be specified. Using this information, SARAH derives the mass matrices and Feynman rules at tree-level and generates model files for CalcHep/CompHep and FeynArts/FormCalc. In addition, it can calculate the renormalization group equations at one- and two-loop level and the one-loop corrections to the one- and two-point functions. Unusual features: SARAH just needs the superpotential and gauge sector as input and not the complete Lagrangian. Therefore, the complete implementation of new models is done in some minutes. Running time: Measured CPU time for the evaluation of the MSSM on an Intel Q8200 with 2.33 GHz. Calculating the complete Lagrangian: 12 seconds. Calculating all vertices: 75 seconds. Calculating the one- and two-loop RGEs: 50 seconds. Calculating the one-loop corrections: 7 seconds. Writing a FeynArts file: 1 second. Writing a CalcHep/CompHep file: 6 seconds. Writing the LaTeX output: 1 second.

Realizing Improvement through Team Empowerment (RITE): A Team-based, Project-based Multidisciplinary Improvement Program.

PubMed

Larson, David B; Mickelsen, L Jake; Garcia, Kandice

2016-01-01

Performance improvement in a complex health care environment depends on the cooperation of diverse individuals and groups, allocation of time and resources, and use of effective improvement methods. To address this challenge, we developed an 18-week multidisciplinary training program that would also provide a vehicle for effecting needed improvements, by using a team- and project-based model. The program began in the radiology department and subsequently expanded to include projects from throughout the medical center. Participants were taught a specific method for team-based problem solving, which included (a) articulating the problem, (b) observing the process, (c) analyzing possible causes of problems, (d) identifying key drivers, (e) testing and refining interventions, and (f) providing for sustainment of results. Progress was formally reviewed on a weekly basis. A total of 14 teams consisting of 78 participants completed the course in two cohorts; one project was discontinued. All completed projects resulted in at least modest improvement. Mean skill scores increased from 2.5/6 to 4.5/6 (P < .01), and the mean satisfaction score was 4.7/5. Identified keys to success include (a) engagement of frontline staff, (b) teams given authority to make process changes, (c) capable improvement coaches, (d) a physician-director with improvement expertise and organizational authority, (e) capable administrative direction, (f) supportive organizational leaders, (g) weekly progress reviews, (h) timely educational material, (i) structured problem-solving methods, and ( j ) multiple projects working simultaneously. The purpose of this article is to review the program, including the methods and results, and discuss perceived keys to program success. © RSNA, 2016.

From Cancer Screening to Treatment: Service Delivery and Referral in the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program

PubMed Central

Miller, Jacqueline W.; Hanson, Vivien; Johnson, Gale D.; Royalty, Janet E.; Richardson, Lisa C.

2015-01-01

The National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) provides breast and cervical cancer screening and diagnostic services to low-income and underserved women through a network of providers and health care organizations. Although the program serves women 40-64 years old for breast cancer screening and 21-64 years old for cervical cancer screening, the priority populations are women 50-64 years old for breast cancer and women who have never or rarely been screened for cervical cancer. From 1991 through 2011, the NBCCEDP provided screening and diagnostic services to more than 4.3 million women, diagnosing 54,276 breast cancers, 2554 cervical cancers, and 123,563 precancerous cervical lesions. A critical component of providing screening services is to ensure that all women with abnormal screening results receive appropriate and timely diagnostic evaluations. Case management is provided to assist women with overcoming barriers that would delay or prevent follow-up care. Women diagnosed with cancer receive treatment through the states' Breast and Cervical Cancer Treatment Programs (a special waiver for Medicaid) if they are eligible. The NBCCEDP has performance measures that serve as benchmarks to monitor the completeness and timeliness of care. More than 90% of the women receive complete diagnostic care and initiate treatment less than 30 days from the time of their diagnosis. Provision of effective screening and diagnostic services depends on effective program management, networks of providers throughout the community, and the use of evidence-based knowledge, procedures, and technologies. PMID:25099897

Development of a community pharmacy program in Iran with a focus on Logbook application

PubMed Central

Farsaei, Shadi

2016-01-01

Objective: Community pharmacy educational program needs to be completed because of gradual transition in pharmacist responsibilities from traditional roles such as dispensing and compounding medications to give professional patient-based care. To further develop the community pharmacy program, this study was designed to involve Logbook in pharmacy training courses. Methods: For this study, at first, Logbook for community pharmacy practice was designed to develop educational program of this course in Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. Thereafter, in a 6-month prospective study, this Logbook was incorporated to the pharmacy practice course of Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) educational program, and students’ feedbacks were gained after final examination to improve the Logbook accordingly. Students described their opinions about different sections of this program as unnecessary, necessary, and necessary with revision. Findings: A total of 65 PharmD students were included in this study. More than 90% of the students gave complete answers to the evaluation of this pharmacy training program. The results showed that more than 70% of students considered this program of pharmacy training was necessary (with or without revisions) in PharmD courses. They recommended more time to be included for prescription reading and analyses during these courses. Conclusion: Developing pharmacy training program by using Logbook which was presented in this study was considered necessary and efficient for PharmD students. However, it is a prototype system, and we are committed to using initial students and preceptors’ feedbacks to improve Logbook in future courses. PMID:26985437

Opioid Tapering in Fibromyalgia Patients: Experience from an Interdisciplinary Pain Rehabilitation Program.

PubMed

Cunningham, Julie L; Evans, Michele M; King, Susan M; Gehin, Jessica M; Loukianova, Larissa L

2016-09-01

Despite current guideline recommendations against the use of opioids for the treatment of fibromyalgia pain, opioid use is reported in approximately 30% of the patient population. There is a lack of information describing the process and results of tapering of chronic opioids. The purpose of this study is to describe opioid tapering and withdrawal symptoms in fibromyalgia patients on opioids. This retrospective research study included a baseline analysis of 159 patients consecutively admitted to the Mayo Clinic Pain Rehabilitation Center from 2006 through 2012 with a pain diagnosis of fibromyalgia completing a 3-week outpatient interdisciplinary pain rehabilitation program. Opioid tapering analysis included 55 (35%) patients using daily opioids. Opioid tapering was individualized to each patient based on interdisciplinary pain rehabilitation team determination. Opioid withdrawal symptoms were assessed daily, utilizing the Clinical Opioid Withdrawal Scale. Patients taking daily opioids had a morphine equivalent mean dose of 99 mg/day. Patients on < 100 mg/day were tapered off over a mean of 10 days compared with patients on > 200 mg/day over a mean of 28 days (P < 0.001). Differences in peak withdrawal symptoms were not statistically significant based on the mean equivalent dose (P = 22). Patients taking opioids for <2 years did not differ in length of tapering (P =0.63) or peak COWS score (P =0.80) compared with >2 years duration. Patients had significant improvements in pain-related measures including numeric pain scores, depression catastrophizing, health perception, interference with life, and perceived life control at program completion. Fibromyalgia patients on higher doses of opioids were tapered off over a longer period of time but no differences in withdrawal symptoms were seen based on opioid dose. Duration of opioid use did not affect the time to complete opioid taper or withdrawal symptoms. Despite opioid tapering, pain-related measures improved at the completion of the rehabilitation program. © 2016 American Academy of Pain Medicine. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Effectiveness of one-time psychoeducational programming for students with high levels of eating concerns.

PubMed

Tillman, Kathleen S; Sell, Darcie M; Yates, Lindsay A; Mueller, Nichole

2015-12-01

This study investigated the effectiveness of on-campus programming for National Eating Disorder Awareness Week at increasing knowledge of available treatment options and help-seeking intentions for participants with low and high levels of eating concerns. Program attendees were approached as they entered the space reserved for programming and were asked to participate in the study. One hundred thirty-six college students completed the study questionnaire both immediately before attending programming (pre-test) and immediately after attending programming (post-test). Results indicate that after programming both populations reported significantly greater knowledge of on-campus resources and help-seeking intentions for themselves. Only low eating concern participants reported significantly increased help-seeking intentions for a friend. Psychoeducational programming for eating disorders can be effective at increasing access to treatment and encouraging help seeking behaviors for students. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A pilot study: evaluation of a psychosocial program for women with gynecological cancers.

PubMed

Levine, Ellen G; Silver, Barbara

2007-01-01

Ovarian cancer is the fourth highest cause of cancer deaths in the US. Psychosocial issues may be prevalent among these women. This study examined the efficacy of a gynecological cancer resource program. Fifty-three women completed questionnaires over a year's time. The women felt positively about the program, and used several of the services. The most used services were that of the center coordinator/nurse practitioner, the GYN support group, the hair consultant, and the imagery sessions. The social worker, massage therapist, and the nutritionist seemed to be important at the beginning of the cancer experience but not so much at later stages. Having a nurse practitioner who could talk about treatment side effects, menopause, body image, sexuality, etc., was helpful to at least half of the women. Psychological distress decreased over time, as did quality of life.

Taking an Antibiotic Time-out: Utilization and Usability of a Self-Stewardship Time-out Program for Renewal of Vancomycin and Piperacillin-Tazobactam.

PubMed

Graber, Christopher J; Jones, Makoto M; Glassman, Peter A; Weir, Charlene; Butler, Jorie; Nechodom, Kevin; Kay, Chad L; Furman, Amy E; Tran, Thuong T; Foltz, Christopher; Pollack, Lori A; Samore, Matthew H; Goetz, Matthew Bidwell

2015-11-01

Antibiotic time-outs can promote critical thinking and greater attention to reviewing indications for continuation. We pilot tested an antibiotic time-out program at a tertiary care teaching hospital where vancomycin and piperacillin-tazobactam continuation past day 3 had previously required infectious diseases service approval. The time-out program consisted of 3 components: (1) an electronic antimicrobial dashboard that aggregated infection-relevant clinical data; (2) a templated note in the electronic medical record that included a structured review of antibiotic indications and that provided automatic approval of continuation of therapy when indicated; and (3) an educational and social marketing campaign. In the first 6 months of program implementation, vancomycin was discontinued by day 5 in 93/145 (64%) courses where a time-out was performed on day 4 versus in 96/199 (48%) 1 year prior (P = .04). Seven vancomycin continuations via template (5% of time-outs) were guideline-discordant by retrospective chart review versus none 1 year prior (P = .002). Piperacillin-tazobactam was discontinued by day 5 in 70/105 (67%) courses versus 58/93 (62%) 1 year prior (P = .55); 9 continuations (9% of time-outs) were guideline-discordant versus two 1 year prior (P = .06). A usability survey completed by 32 physicians demonstrated modest satisfaction with the overall program, antimicrobial dashboard, and renewal templates. By providing practitioners with clinical informatics support and guidance, the intervention increased provider confidence in making decisions to de-escalate antimicrobial therapy in ambiguous circumstances wherein they previously sought authorization for continuation from an antimicrobial steward.

Posttreatment attrition and its predictors, attrition bias, and treatment efficacy of the anxiety online programs.

PubMed

Al-Asadi, Ali M; Klein, Britt; Meyer, Denny

2014-10-14

Although relatively new, the field of e-mental health is becoming more popular with more attention given to researching its various aspects. However, there are many areas that still need further research, especially identifying attrition predictors at various phases of assessment and treatment delivery. The present study identified the predictors of posttreatment assessment completers based on 24 pre- and posttreatment demographic and personal variables and 1 treatment variable, their impact on attrition bias, and the efficacy of the 5 fully automated self-help anxiety treatment programs for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), panic disorder with or without agoraphobia (PD/A), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A complex algorithm was used to diagnose participants' mental disorders based on the criteria of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (Fourth Edition, Text Revision; DSM-IV-TR). Those who received a primary or secondary diagnosis of 1 of 5 anxiety disorders were offered an online 12-week disorder-specific treatment program. A total of 3199 individuals did not formally drop out of the 12-week treatment cycle, whereas 142 individuals formally dropped out. However, only 347 participants who completed their treatment cycle also completed the posttreatment assessment measures. Based on these measures, predictors of attrition were identified and attrition bias was examined. The efficacy of the 5 treatment programs was assessed based on anxiety-specific severity scores and 5 additional treatment outcome measures. On average, completers of posttreatment assessment measures were more likely to be seeking self-help online programs; have heard about the program from traditional media or from family and friends; were receiving mental health assistance; were more likely to learn best by reading, hearing and doing; had a lower pretreatment Kessler-6 total score; and were older in age. Predicted probabilities resulting from these attrition variables displayed no significant attrition bias using Heckman's method and thus allowing for the use of completer analysis. Six treatment outcome measures (Kessler-6 total score, number of diagnosed disorders, self-confidence in managing mental health issues, quality of life, and the corresponding pre- and posttreatment severity for each program-specific anxiety disorder and for major depressive episode) were used to assess the efficacy of the 5 anxiety treatment programs. Repeated measures MANOVA revealed a significant multivariate time effect for all treatment outcome measures for each treatment program. Follow-up repeated measures ANOVAs revealed significant improvements on all 6 treatment outcome measures for GAD and PTSD, 5 treatment outcome measures were significant for SAD and PD/A, and 4 treatment outcome measures were significant for OCD. Results identified predictors of posttreatment assessment completers and provided further support for the efficacy of self-help online treatment programs for the 5 anxiety disorders. Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN121611000704998; http://www.anzctr.org.au/trial_view.aspx?ID=336143 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/618r3wvOG).