Police must join the fast track to end AIDS by 2030.

PubMed

Crofts, Nick; Patterson, David

2016-01-01

World leaders have committed to ending AIDS by 2030, but stigma and discrimination remain significant obstacles. In particular, police are critical, front-line determinants of risk for many people living with HIV (PLHIV) and members of other key affected populations (KAPs). The negative impact of adverse police behaviours and practices on HIV risk is well documented, and these risks undermine global efforts to end AIDS. Far less well documented, and less common, are attempts to ameliorate this impact by working to change police behaviours. This Special Issue seeks to help redress this imbalance by presenting a selection of original, provocative and important interventions from academics, police officers and other stakeholders concerned with documenting the potential for constructive, progressive and evidence-based approaches to the reduction of HIV risk. We recommend urgent boosting of efforts and funding to engage police in the HIV response. Among other strategies, this needs sustainable funding of programmes and their evaluation, and increased and continuing advocacy and education at all levels to match policy and law reform.

Which serial killers commit suicide? An exploratory study.

PubMed

Lester, David; White, John

2012-11-30

In a sample of 483 serial killers, 6.2% were documented to have committed suicide. Those who committed suicide were found to come from more dysfunctional homes characterized by more psychiatric disturbance in the parents. The sexual acts involved in the murders by the suicides seemed to be more deviant in some aspects, such as committing more bizarre sexual acts or more often taping the murder. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

An Examination of the Relationship between Training Comprehensiveness and Organizational Commitment: Further Exploration of Training Perceptions and Employee Attitudes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ehrhardt, Kyle; Miller, Janice S.; Freeman, Sarah J.; Hom, Peter W.

2011-01-01

For organizations, the value of employing highly committed individuals is well documented. Accordingly, scholars have endeavored to identify factors that may influence employees' organizational commitment. One factor that has received growing attention in this regard is individuals' perceptions of training offered by an organization. However,…

Controls Over Ministry of Interior Fuel Contracts Could be Improved

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-01-20

Fiscal Year 1395 Commitment Letter improved reporting requirements designed to specify adequate documentation of the Afghan Ministry of Interior fuel...1395 Commitment Letter improved reporting requirements designed to specify adequate documentation of the Afghan Ministry of Interior fuel consumption...of Defense F r a u d , W a s t e & A b u s e FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY Results in Brief Controls Over Ministry of Interior Fuel

Commitment to the Profession of School Psychology: An Exploratory Study.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kruger, Louis J.; And Others

This study focused on professional commitment to school psychology among practicing school psychologists. Burnout, school system reductions, and demographic characteristics were examined with respect to school psychologists' commitment to their profession. The results revealed that burnout had a significant relationship to professional commitment…

Police must join the fast track to end AIDS by 2030

PubMed Central

Crofts, Nick; Patterson, David

2016-01-01

World leaders have committed to ending AIDS by 2030, but stigma and discrimination remain significant obstacles. In particular, police are critical, front-line determinants of risk for many people living with HIV (PLHIV) and members of other key affected populations (KAPs). The negative impact of adverse police behaviours and practices on HIV risk is well documented, and these risks undermine global efforts to end AIDS. Far less well documented, and less common, are attempts to ameliorate this impact by working to change police behaviours. This Special Issue seeks to help redress this imbalance by presenting a selection of original, provocative and important interventions from academics, police officers and other stakeholders concerned with documenting the potential for constructive, progressive and evidence-based approaches to the reduction of HIV risk. We recommend urgent boosting of efforts and funding to engage police in the HIV response. Among other strategies, this needs sustainable funding of programmes and their evaluation, and increased and continuing advocacy and education at all levels to match policy and law reform. PMID:27435719

47 CFR 1.325 - Discovery and production of documents and things for inspection, copying, or photographing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... with the presiding officer): (i) All formation and organizational documents, including articles of..., minority/female status, and the like; (xi) All documents relating to commitments to divest other media... exchanged pursuant to the Standardized Document Production Order, the following information must also be...

47 CFR 1.325 - Discovery and production of documents and things for inspection, copying, or photographing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... with the presiding officer): (i) All formation and organizational documents, including articles of..., minority/female status, and the like; (xi) All documents relating to commitments to divest other media... exchanged pursuant to the Standardized Document Production Order, the following information must also be...

The impact of middle manager affective commitment on perceived improvement program implementation success.

PubMed

Fryer, Ashley-Kay; Tucker, Anita L; Singer, Sara J

Recent literature suggests that middle manager affective commitment (emotional attachment, identification, and involvement) to an improvement program may influence implementation success. However, less is known about the interplay between middle manager affective commitment and frontline worker commitment, another important driver of implementation success. We contribute to this research by surveying middle managers who directly manage frontline workers on nursing units. We assess how middle manager affective commitment is related to their perceptions of implementation success and whether their perceptions of frontline worker support mediate this relationship. We also test whether a set of organizational support factors foster middle manager affective commitment. We adapt survey measures of manager affective commitment to our research context of hospitals. We surveyed 67 nurse managers from 19 U.S. hospitals. We use hierarchical linear regression to assess relationships among middle manager affective commitment to their units' falls reduction program and their perceptions of three constructs related to the program: frontline worker support, organizational support, and implementation success. Middle manager affective commitment to their unit's falls reduction program is positively associated with their perception of implementation success. This relationship is mediated by their perception of frontline worker support for the falls program. Moreover, middle managers' affective commitment to their unit's falls program mediates the relationship between perceived organizational support for the program and perceived implementation success. We, through this research, offer an important contribution by providing empirical support of factors that may influence successful implementation of an improvement program: middle manager affective commitment, frontline worker support, and organizational support for an improvement program. Increasing levels of middle manager affective commitment to an improvement program could strengthen program implementation success by facilitating frontline worker support for the program. Furthermore, providing the organizational support items in our survey construct may bolster middle manager affective commitment.

77 FR 69870 - Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Healthcare Facility Documents: Revisions and Updates and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-11-21

... updating and revising a set of production, underwriting, asset management, closing, and other documents... clarify the requirements for a management agent and the management agreement. Production--Firm Commitments... closing documents to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and approval, and assignment of...

Positive Feedback of NDT80 Expression Ensures Irreversible Meiotic Commitment in Budding Yeast

PubMed Central

Tsuchiya, Dai; Yang, Yang; Lacefield, Soni

2014-01-01

In budding yeast, meiotic commitment is the irreversible continuation of the developmental path of meiosis. After reaching meiotic commitment, cells finish meiosis and gametogenesis, even in the absence of the meiosis-inducing signal. In contrast, if the meiosis-inducing signal is removed and the mitosis-inducing signal is provided prior to reaching meiotic commitment, cells exit meiosis and return to mitosis. Previous work has shown that cells commit to meiosis after prophase I but before entering the meiotic divisions. Since the Ndt80 transcription factor induces expression of middle meiosis genes necessary for the meiotic divisions, we examined the role of the NDT80 transcriptional network in meiotic commitment. Using a microfluidic approach to analyze single cells, we found that cells commit to meiosis in prometaphase I, after the induction of the Ndt80-dependent genes. Our results showed that high-level expression of NDT80 is important for the timing and irreversibility of meiotic commitment. A modest reduction in NDT80 levels delayed meiotic commitment based on meiotic stages, although the timing of each meiotic stage was similar to that of wildtype cells. A further reduction of NDT80 resulted in the surprising finding of inappropriately uncommitted cells: withdrawal of the meiosis-inducing signal and addition of the mitosis-inducing signal to cells at stages beyond metaphase I caused return to mitosis, leading to multi-nucleate cells. Since Ndt80 enhances its own transcription through positive feedback, we tested whether positive feedback ensured the irreversibility of meiotic commitment. Ablating positive feedback in NDT80 expression resulted in a complete loss of meiotic commitment. These findings suggest that irreversibility of meiotic commitment is a consequence of the NDT80 transcriptional positive feedback loop, which provides the high-level of Ndt80 required for the developmental switch of meiotic commitment. These results also illustrate the importance of irreversible meiotic commitment for maintaining genome integrity by preventing formation of multi-nucleate cells. PMID:24901499

Team X Report #1401: Exoplanet Coronagraph STDT Study 2013-06

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Warfield, Keith

2013-01-01

This document is intended to stimulate discussion of the topic described. All technical and cost analyses are preliminary. This document is not a commitment to work, but is a precursor to a formal proposal if it generates sufficient mutual interest. The data contained in this document may not be modified in any way. Cost estimates described or summarized in this document were generated as part of a preliminary, first-order cost class identification as part of an early trade space study, are based on JPL-internal parametric cost modeling, assume a JPL in-house build, and do not constitute a commitment on the part of JPL or Caltech. JPL and Team X add cost reserves for development and operations. Unadjusted estimate totals and cost reserve allocations would be revised as needed in future more-detailed studies as appropriate for the specific cost-risks for a given mission concept.

Run to win--the dedication, commitment and service of Judy Yaiyon.

PubMed

Aupae, Pamela; Aupae, Ruth; Aupae, Sarah

2013-01-01

This article documents the life and achievements of Judy Yaiyon Aupae from the perspectives of her three daughters. Judy was born in Enga Province and raised by her mother, who was the second wife of a chief. The article explores the origins of Judy's interest in health care as a child. It further explores her commitment to helping others through training as a nurse and, later, through working in physiotherapy. The article also documents Judy's recent gaining of further qualifications in physiotherapy through her completion of a degree at Divine Word University in Madang.

45 CFR 2553.71 - What is the process for application and award of a grant?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... will be documented by a Notice of Grant Award (NGA). (2) The Corporation and the sponsoring organization are parties to the NGA. The NGA will document the sponsor's commitment to fulfill specific...

The Relationship between the Catholic Teacher's Faith and Commitment in the Catholic High School

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cho, Young Kwan

2011-01-01

Church documents recognize that the Catholic teacher's faith, mediated through a teacher's commitment, is one of the crucial factors that guarantees the success of the Catholic school (Congregation for Catholic Education, 1977, 1982, 2007). A number of researchers support this view with their findings (Ciriello, 1987; Tarr, 1992; Tiernan, 2000).…

Factors affecting radiographers' organizational commitment.

PubMed

Akroyd, Duane; Jackowski, Melissa B; Legg, Jeffrey S

2007-01-01

A variety of factors influence employees' attitudes toward their workplace and commitment to the organization that employs them. However, these factors have not been well documented among radiologic technologists. To determine the predictive ability of selected organizational, leadership, work-role and demographic variables on organizational commitment for a national sample of radiographers. Three thousand radiographers registered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists working full time in clinical settings were surveyed by mail regarding their commitment to their employers, leadership within the organization that employs them, employer support and demographic information. Overall, radiographers were found to have only a moderate level of commitment to their employers. Among the factors that significantly affected commitment were the radiographer's educational level, perceived level of organizational support, role clarity and organizational leadership. The results of this study could provide managers and supervisors with insights on how to empower and challenge radiographers and offer opportunities that will enhance radiographers' commitment to the organization, thus reducing costly turnover and improving employee performance.

[Ethical analysis and commentary of Dignitas Personae document: from continuity toward the innovation].

PubMed

Pastor, Luis Miguel

2011-01-01

In 2008 [corrected] the Catholic Church published a document entitled Dignitas Personae (DP) about a range of bioethical issues related to the areas of assisted reproduction and human genetics. The objective of this paper is analyzing the issues treated in the same and comments the novelty of his arguments in the bioethical thinking of the Catholic Church. DP document has an introduction, three parts and a conclusion. The publication of document is due to recent advances that have occurred in recent years in the two areas mentioned above. This advances were not analyzed in a previously document called Donum Vitae (DV). DP analyzes these new advances from the anthropological and ethical approaches of DV. Not intending to contradict DV, the DP applies the arguments of DV to new situations. In both the title and elsewhere in the text it is affirmed that the human embryo has the dignity of human person. From this principle DP analyzes issues such as the status of the human embryo, intracytoplasmic sperm injection, (ICSI), preimplantation diagnosis, embryo cryopreservation, contragestion, embryo reduction etc. In these matters, as in the questions such as human genetics, cloning, gene therapy or the use of biological material obtained from abortions, the document reaffirms previous ideas of the Catholic Church, applies them to new problems or develops new arguments that will require further reflection. In conclusion, the document is very useful for understanding the current bioethical thinking of the Catholic Church on these issues; it clarifies certain disputes, suggesting new arguments, and leaves other issues to free discussion and subsequent interventions of the Catholic Magisterium. Finally, the document reaffirms the commitment of the Catholic Church to the poor of our techno-scientific society, the proletariat of the new century: human embryos.

Developing the Philippines as a Global Hub for Disaster Risk Reduction - A Health Research Initiative as Presented at the 10th Philippine National Health Research System Week Celebration

PubMed Central

Banwell, Nicola; Montoya, Jaime; Opeña, Merlita; IJsselmuiden, Carel; Law, Ronald; Balboa, Gloria J.; Rutherford, Shannon; Chu, Cordia; Murray, Virginia

2016-01-01

The recent Philippine National Health Research System (PNHRS) Week Celebration highlighted the growing commitment to Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) in the Philippines. The event was lead by the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology and the Department of Health, and saw the participation of national and international experts in DRR, and numerous research consortia from all over the Philippines. With a central focus on the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, the DRR related events recognised the significant disaster risks faced in the Philippines. They also illustrated the Philippine strengths and experience in DRR. Key innovations in science and technology showcased at the conference include the web-base hazard mapping applications ‘Project NOAH’ and ‘FaultFinder’. Other notable innovations include ‘Surveillance in Post Extreme Emergencies and Disasters’ (SPEED) which monitors potential outbreaks through a syndromic reporting system. Three areas noted for further development in DRR science and technology included: integrated national hazard assessment, strengthened collaboration, and improved documentation. Finally, the event saw the proposal to develop the Philippines into a global hub for DRR. The combination of the risk profile of the Philippines, established national structures and experience in DRR, as well as scientific and technological innovation in this field are potential factors that could position the Philippines as a future global leader in DRR. The purpose of this article is to formally document the key messages of the DRR-related events of the PNHRS Week Celebration. PMID:27867737

Developing the Philippines as a Global Hub for Disaster Risk Reduction - A Health Research Initiative as Presented at the 10th Philippine National Health Research System Week Celebration.

PubMed

Banwell, Nicola; Montoya, Jaime; Opeña, Merlita; IJsselmuiden, Carel; Law, Ronald; Balboa, Gloria J; Rutherford, Shannon; Chu, Cordia; Murray, Virginia

2016-10-25

The recent Philippine National Health Research System (PNHRS) Week Celebration highlighted the growing commitment to Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) in the Philippines. The event was lead by the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology and the Department of Health, and saw the participation of national and international experts in DRR, and numerous research consortia from all over the Philippines. With a central focus on the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, the DRR related events recognised the significant disaster risks faced in the Philippines. They also illustrated the Philippine strengths and experience in DRR. Key innovations in science and technology showcased at the conference include the web-base hazard mapping applications 'Project NOAH' and 'FaultFinder'. Other notable innovations include 'Surveillance in Post Extreme Emergencies and Disasters' (SPEED) which monitors potential outbreaks through a syndromic reporting system. Three areas noted for further development in DRR science and technology included: integrated national hazard assessment, strengthened collaboration, and improved documentation. Finally, the event saw the proposal to develop the Philippines into a global hub for DRR. The combination of the risk profile of the Philippines, established national structures and experience in DRR, as well as scientific and technological innovation in this field are potential factors that could position the Philippines as a future global leader in DRR. The purpose of this article is to formally document the key messages of the DRR-related events of the PNHRS Week Celebration.

8 CFR 270.2 - Enforcement procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... Aliens and Nationality DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY IMMIGRATION REGULATIONS PENALTIES FOR DOCUMENT FRAUD § 270.2 Enforcement procedures. (a) Procedures for the filing of complaints. Any person or entity... charges for document fraud committed by refugees at the time of entry. The Service shall not issue a...

3 CFR - Regulatory Compliance

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 3 The President 1 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Regulatory Compliance Presidential Documents Other Presidential Documents Memorandum of January 18, 2011 Regulatory Compliance Memorandum for the Heads of Executive Departments and Agencies My Administration is committed to enhancing effectiveness and efficiency in Government. Pursuant to the...

78 FR 75563 - Application for Final Commitment for a Long-Term Loan or Financial Guarantee in Excess of $100...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-12-12

... EXPORT-IMPORT BANK [Public Notice: 2013-0058] Application for Final Commitment for a Long-Term.... To submit a comment, enter EIB-2013-0058 under the heading ``Enter Keyword or ID'' and select Search... (if any) and EIB-2013-0058 on any attached document. Reference: AP088406XX. Purpose and Use: Brief...

Civic Commitment in Young Activists: Emergent Processes in the Development of Personal and Collective Identity

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Martinez, M. Loreto; Penaloza, Pilar; Valenzuela, Cristina

2012-01-01

Through a qualitative approach this study documents life experiences that youth with a history of sustained social and political participation judge as significant in the development of their civic commitment. Data is drawn from in-depth interviews to 6 Chilean youth (3 ages 16-19; 3 ages 20-24 years) of diverse socioeconomic condition, with a…

Motivated reconstruction: The effect of brand commitment on false memories.

PubMed

Montgomery, Nicole Votolato; Rajagopal, Priyali

2018-06-01

Across 5 studies, we examine the effect of prior brand commitment on the creation of false memories about product experience after reading online product reviews. We find that brand commitment and the valence of reviews to which consumers are exposed, interact to affect the incidence of false memories. Thus, highly committed consumers are more susceptible to the creation of false experience memories on exposure to positive versus negative reviews, whereas low commitment consumers exhibit similar levels of false memories in response to both positive and negative reviews. Further, these differences across brand commitment are attenuated when respondents are primed with an accuracy motivation, suggesting that the biasing effects of commitment are likely because of the motivation to defend the committed brand. Finally, we find that differences in false memories subsequently lead to differences in intentions to spread word-of-mouth (e.g., recommend the product to friends), suggesting that the consequences of false product experience memories can be significant for marketers and consumers. Our findings contribute to the literatures in false memory and marketing by documenting a motivated bias in false memories because of brand commitment. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved).

Dual or dueling culture and commitment: The impact of a tri-hospital merger.

PubMed

Jones, Janice M

2003-04-01

This article addresses differences in RNs' commitment to their employing hospital versus the umbrella corporate organization, and the role of organizational culture during a tri-hospital merger. This study is the first to investigate the construct of dual commitment in healthcare organizations. Fiscal restraints, decreasing reimbursement, and increasing competition have made organizational mergers and acquisitions prevalent. As corporate culture changes, organizational variables previously related to organizational commitment may no longer apply. RNs employed on general nursing units at 3 hospitals involved in a merger process completed 2 versions of Mowday's Organizational Commitment Questionnaire. Commitment to hospital and corporate system were examined. Semi-structured interviews, participant observation, and analysis of company documents assessed the organizational culture changes that have occurred. Thirty-one percent of the nurses returned completed questionnaires; 9 were interviewed. RNs from the acquiring hospital demonstrated a significantly stronger commitment to the corporate system than the nurses from the acquired hospitals. The RNs at all 3 hospitals showed significantly greater commitment to their own particular hospital than to the umbrella corporate system. Moderate level of commitment reflected uncertainty of job status, work overload, and feelings of unappreciation. These attitudes prevent nurses from exerting efforts on behalf of the organization.

The things you do for me: perceptions of a romantic partner's investments promote gratitude and commitment.

PubMed

Joel, Samantha; Gordon, Amie M; Impett, Emily A; Macdonald, Geoff; Keltner, Dacher

2013-10-01

Although a great deal of attention has been paid to the role of people's own investment in promoting relationship commitment, less research has considered the possible role of the partner's investments. An experiment (Study 1) and two combined daily experience and longitudinal studies (Studies 2 and 3) documented that perceived investments from one partner motivate the other partner to further commit to the relationship. All three studies provided support for gratitude as a mechanism of this effect. These effects held even for individuals who were relatively less satisfied with their relationships. Together, these results suggest that people feel particularly grateful for partners who they perceive to have invested into the relationship, which, in turn, motivates them to further commit to the relationship. Implications for research and theory on gratitude and relationship commitment are discussed.

Rationales for the Lightning Launch Commit Criteria

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Willett, John C. (Editor); Merceret, Francis J. (Editor); Krider, E. Philip; O'Brien, T. Paul; Dye, James E.; Walterscheid, Richard L.; Stolzenburg, Maribeth; Cummins, Kenneth; Christian, Hugh J.; Madura, John T.

2016-01-01

Since natural and triggered lightning are demonstrated hazards to launch vehicles, payloads, and spacecraft, NASA and the Department of Defense (DoD) follow the Lightning Launch Commit Criteria (LLCC) for launches from Federal Ranges. The LLCC were developed to prevent future instances of a rocket intercepting natural lightning or triggering a lightning flash during launch from a Federal Range. NASA and DoD utilize the Lightning Advisory Panel (LAP) to establish and develop robust rationale from which the criteria originate. The rationale document also contains appendices that provide additional scientific background, including detailed descriptions of the theory and observations behind the rationales. The LLCC in whole or part are used across the globe due to the rigor of the documented criteria and associated rationale. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) adopted the LLCC in 2006 for commercial space transportation and the criteria were codified in the FAA's Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) for Safety of an Expendable Launch Vehicle (Appendix G to 14 CFR Part 417, (G417)) and renamed Lightning Flight Commit Criteria in G417.

The Effect of Perceived Organizational Support and Perceived Organizational Politics on Teacher Commitment: An Analysis of Public and Non-Public Secondary Schools

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sides, Scott M.

2013-01-01

The purpose of the current research was to comparatively explore and document similarities and differences in POS, POP, and teacher commitment within the two school settings (public and non-public) by analyzing the perceptions of teachers within secondary school settings within a mid-south state. Surveys were sent to teachers for completion. After…

Could US mayors achieve the entire US Paris climate target?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gurney, K. R.; Huang, J.; Hutchins, M.; Liang, J.

2017-12-01

After the recent US Federal Administration announcement not to adhere to the Paris Accords, 359 mayors (and counting) in the US pledged to maintain their commitments, reducing emissions within their jurisdictions by 26-28% from their 2005 levels by the year 2025. While important, this leaves a large portion of the US landscape, and a large amount of US emissions, outside of the Paris commitment. With Federal US policy looking unlikely to change, could additional effort by US cities overcome the gap in national policy and achieve the equivalent US national Paris commitment? How many cities would be required and how deep would reductions need to be? Up until now, this question could not be reliably resolved due to lack of data at the urban scale. Here, we answer this question with new data - the Vulcan V3.0 FFCO2 emissions data product - through examination of the total US energy related CO2 emissions from cities. We find that the top 500 urban areas in the US could meet the national US commitment to the Paris Accords with a reduction of roughly 30% below their 2015 levels by the year 2025. This is driven by the share of US emissions emanating from cities, particularly the largest cohort. Indeed, as the number of urban areas taking on CO2 reduction targets grows, the less the reduction burden on any individual city. In this presentation, we provide an analysis of US urban CO2 emissions and US climate policy, accounting for varying definitions of urban areas, emitting sectors and the tradeoff between the number of policy-active cities and the CO2 reduction burden.

3 CFR - Finding and Recapturing Improper Payments

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 3 The President 1 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Finding and Recapturing Improper Payments Presidential Documents Other Presidential Documents Memorandum of March 10, 2010 Finding and Recapturing Improper Payments Memorandum for the Heads of Executive Departments and Agencies My Administration is committed to reducing payment errors and eliminating...

Implementing an Integrated Commitment Management System at the Savannah River Site Tank Farms

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

Blanchard, A.

1999-06-16

Recently, the Savannah River Site Tank Farms have been transitioning from pre-1990 Authorization Basis requirements to new 5480.22/.23 requirements. Implementation of the new Authorization Basis has resulted in more detailed requirements, a completely new set of implementing procedures, and the expectation of even more disciplined operations. Key to the success of this implementation has been the development of an Integrated Commitment Management System (ICMS) by Westinghouse Safety Management Solutions. The ICMS has two elements: the Authorization Commitment Matrix (ACM), and a Procedure Consistency Review methodology. The Authorization Commitment Matrix is a linking database, which ties requirements and implementing documents together.more » The associated Procedure Consistency Review process ensures that the procedures to be credited in the ACM do in fact correctly and completely meet all intended commitments. This Integrated Commitment Management System helps Westinghouse Safety Management Solutions and the facility operations and engineering organizations take ownership in the implementation of the requirements that have been developed.« less

A World Fit for Children: Millennium Development Goals; Special Session on Children Documents; The Convention on the Rights of the Child.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

United Nations Children's Fund, New York, NY.

In May 2002, participants at the United Nations General Assembly's Special Session on Children committed to a set of specific goals for children and youth and a basic framework for meeting these goals. This report compiles the commitments that were part of the Special Session: (1) the Millennium Development Goals, earlier pledged to by all 189…

24 CFR 941.610 - Evidentiary materials and other documents.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... record, that will assure to HUD's satisfaction that the public housing units will be available for use by...) for use in carrying out the proposal, and that such commitment is in the amount required under the... HUD (together with all financing documents) to ensure that they do not provide equity investors...

3 CFR - Lobbyists on Agency Boards and Commissions

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 3 The President 1 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Lobbyists on Agency Boards and Commissions Presidential Documents Other Presidential Documents Memorandum of June 18, 2010 Lobbyists on Agency Boards and Commissions Memorandum for the Heads of Executive Departments and Agencies My Administration is committed to reducing the undue influence of specia...

Engaged Institutions: A Commitment to Service. Profiles and Data. Third Working Paper.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kellogg Commission on the Future of State and Land Grant Universities, Washington, DC.

This document profiles ten higher education institutions across the United States, documenting their roles as "engaged institutions," that is, institutions whose goal it is to produce graduates ready to move along a path of self-directed learning and growth. They are "interactive institutions" that have developed partnerships with civic, business,…

Enhancing Congruence between Implicit Motives and Explicit Goal Commitments: Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial.

PubMed

Roch, Ramona M; Rösch, Andreas G; Schultheiss, Oliver C

2017-01-01

Objective: Theory and research suggest that the pursuit of personal goals that do not fit a person's affect-based implicit motives results in impaired emotional well-being, including increased symptoms of depression. The aim of this study was to evaluate an intervention designed to enhance motive-goal congruence and study its impact on well-being. Method: Seventy-four German students (mean age = 22.91, SD = 3.68; 64.9% female) without current psychopathology, randomly allocated to three groups: motivational feedback (FB; n = 25; participants learned about the fit between their implicit motives and explicit goals), FB + congruence-enhancement training (CET; n = 22; participants also engaged in exercises to increase the fit between their implicit motives and goals), and a no-intervention control group ( n = 27), were administered measures of implicit motives, personal goal commitments, happiness, depressive symptoms, and life satisfaction 3 weeks before (T1) and 6 weeks after (T2) treatment. Results: On two types of congruence measures derived from motive and goal assessments, treated participants showed increases in agentic (power and achievement) congruence, with improvements being most consistent in the FB+CET group. Treated participants also showed a trend-level depressive symptom reduction, but no changes on other well-being measures. Although increases in overall and agentic motivational congruence were associated with increases in affective well-being, treatment-based reduction of depressive symptoms was not mediated by treatment-based agentic congruence changes. Conclusion: These findings document that motivational congruence can be effectively enhanced, that changes in motivational congruence are associated with changes in affective well-being, and they suggest that individuals' implicit motives should be considered when personal goals are discussed in the therapeutic process.

Enhancing Congruence between Implicit Motives and Explicit Goal Commitments: Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial

PubMed Central

Roch, Ramona M.; Rösch, Andreas G.; Schultheiss, Oliver C.

2017-01-01

Objective: Theory and research suggest that the pursuit of personal goals that do not fit a person's affect-based implicit motives results in impaired emotional well-being, including increased symptoms of depression. The aim of this study was to evaluate an intervention designed to enhance motive-goal congruence and study its impact on well-being. Method: Seventy-four German students (mean age = 22.91, SD = 3.68; 64.9% female) without current psychopathology, randomly allocated to three groups: motivational feedback (FB; n = 25; participants learned about the fit between their implicit motives and explicit goals), FB + congruence-enhancement training (CET; n = 22; participants also engaged in exercises to increase the fit between their implicit motives and goals), and a no-intervention control group (n = 27), were administered measures of implicit motives, personal goal commitments, happiness, depressive symptoms, and life satisfaction 3 weeks before (T1) and 6 weeks after (T2) treatment. Results: On two types of congruence measures derived from motive and goal assessments, treated participants showed increases in agentic (power and achievement) congruence, with improvements being most consistent in the FB+CET group. Treated participants also showed a trend-level depressive symptom reduction, but no changes on other well-being measures. Although increases in overall and agentic motivational congruence were associated with increases in affective well-being, treatment-based reduction of depressive symptoms was not mediated by treatment-based agentic congruence changes. Conclusion: These findings document that motivational congruence can be effectively enhanced, that changes in motivational congruence are associated with changes in affective well-being, and they suggest that individuals' implicit motives should be considered when personal goals are discussed in the therapeutic process. PMID:28955267

Antecedents of Student Teachers' Affective Commitment to the Teaching Profession and Turnover Intention

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Christophersen, Knut-Andreas; Elstad, Eyvind; Solhaug, Trond; Turmo, Are

2016-01-01

Several European countries have experienced both a dearth of and reduction in the quality of applicants to teacher education study programmes. There is also significant leakage from these programmes. The rationale for this study therefore lies in the need to reduce teacher attrition. Research indicates that affective commitment to a profession is…

H2Otel Challenge Support Documents

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Today’s travelers are increasingly looking for eco-friendly accommodations and a hotel’s commitment to sustainability. WaterSense developed series of tools to support water efficiency in the hospitality sector.

The relationship between some demographic characteristics and organizational commitment of nurses working in the Social Security Hospital of Khorramabad

PubMed Central

Sepahvand, Faribah; Atashzadeh-Shoorideh, Foorozan; Parvizy, Soroor; Tafreshi, Mansoureh Zagheri

2017-01-01

Background Reduction in organizational commitment of nurses results in deficiency of care services. Some demographic factors affect organizational commitment. Objective The present study is intended to determine the organizational commitment of nurses and its relationship with demographic characteristics. Methods This study was a descriptive correlation (cross-sectional) study in January and February of 2016 on 126 nurses who held Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) or Master of Science (M.Sc.) and at least one year of work experience in the Social Security Hospital of Khorramabad, selected using the census method. Data collection tools included a demographic characteristics form and Allen and Meyer questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 20. Independent-samples t-test and one-way ANOVA were used to determine the relationship between organizational commitment and demographic characteristics. Results The majority of nurses had moderate organizational commitment, the highest score belonging to the continuance commitment (22.33%), and the lowest score belonging to the normative commitment (19.16%). Also, there was a significant correlation between the continuance commitment and work experience (p=0.001), the staff posts (p=0.01) and shifts (p=0.04). Conclusion Considering the moderate level of subjects’ organizational commitment in the present study, managers should take necessary measures to increase the attachment and organizational commitment of nurses and provide the ground for improving nursing services. PMID:28848623

The relationship between some demographic characteristics and organizational commitment of nurses working in the Social Security Hospital of Khorramabad.

PubMed

Sepahvand, Faribah; Atashzadeh-Shoorideh, Foorozan; Parvizy, Soroor; Tafreshi, Mansoureh Zagheri

2017-06-01

Reduction in organizational commitment of nurses results in deficiency of care services. Some demographic factors affect organizational commitment. The present study is intended to determine the organizational commitment of nurses and its relationship with demographic characteristics. This study was a descriptive correlation (cross-sectional) study in January and February of 2016 on 126 nurses who held Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) or Master of Science (M.Sc.) and at least one year of work experience in the Social Security Hospital of Khorramabad, selected using the census method. Data collection tools included a demographic characteristics form and Allen and Meyer questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 20. Independent-samples t-test and one-way ANOVA were used to determine the relationship between organizational commitment and demographic characteristics. The majority of nurses had moderate organizational commitment, the highest score belonging to the continuance commitment (22.33%), and the lowest score belonging to the normative commitment (19.16%). Also, there was a significant correlation between the continuance commitment and work experience (p=0.001), the staff posts (p=0.01) and shifts (p=0.04). Considering the moderate level of subjects' organizational commitment in the present study, managers should take necessary measures to increase the attachment and organizational commitment of nurses and provide the ground for improving nursing services.

Data and Primary Source Documents for Social Studies Classrooms from the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Suiter, Mary C.; Stierholz, Katrina L.

2011-01-01

Data and primary source documents are important for understanding past and current events. The Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis has committed itself to the collection and illumination of economic data and historical information for classroom teachers and researchers. The Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis provides a number of services--including…

What Every Child Should Know...Music. Course of Study and Criteria for Textbook Selection.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Arizona State Dept. of Education, Phoenix.

This document outlines the music curriculum for students in grades K-8 in Arizona public schools. Developers state that music educators should use the document as the content criteria for selecting state adopted textbooks and materials. As a result of participating in the music program, students should develop an increasing commitment to music,…

Document fraud deterrent strategies: four case studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mercer, John W.

1998-04-01

This paper discusses the approaches taken to deter fraud committed against four documents: the machine-readable passport; the machine-readable visa; the Consular Report of Birth Abroad; and the Border Crossing Card. General approaches are discussed first, with an emphasis on the reasons for the document, the conditions of its use and the information systems required for it to function. A cost model of counterfeit deterrence is introduced. Specific approaches to each of the four documents are then discussed, in light of the issuance circumstances and criteria, the intent of the issuing authority, the applicable international standards and the level of protection and fraud resistance appropriate for the document.

The emergence, growth and decline of political priority for newborn survival in Bolivia.

PubMed

Smith, Stephanie L

2014-12-01

Bolivia is expected to achieve United Nations Millennium Development Goal Four, reducing under-five child mortality by two-thirds between 2021 and 2025. However, progress on child mortality reduction masks a disproportionately slow decline in newborn deaths during the 2000s. Bolivia's neonatal mortality problem emerged on the policy agenda in the mid-1990s and grew through 2004 in relationship to political commitments to international development goals and the support of a strong policy network. Network status declined later in the decade. This study draws upon a framework for analysing determinants of political priority for global health initiatives to understand the trajectory of newborn survival policy in Bolivia from the early 1990s. A process-tracing case study methodology is used, informed by interviews with 26 individuals with close knowledge of newborn survival policy in the country and extensive document analysis. The case of newborn survival in Bolivia highlights the significance of political commitments to international development goals, health policy network characteristics (cohesion, composition, status and key actor support) and political transitions and instability in shaping agenda status, especially decline-an understudied phenomenon considering the transitory nature of policy priorities. The study suggests that the sustainability of issue attention therefore become a focal point for health policy networks and analyses. Published by Oxford University Press in association with The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine © The Author 2013; all rights reserved.

46 CFR 122.910 - Suspension and revocation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

..., certificate or registry, or merchant mariner's document who commits an act of misconduct, negligence, or incompetence, or who violates or fails to comply with this subchapter or any other law or regulation intending...

Dysregulated microRNA activity in Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-09-01

Army position, policy or decision unless so designated by other documentation. REPORT DOCUMENTATION PAGE Form Approved OMB No . 0704-0188 Public...Arlington, VA 22202-4302. Respondents should be aware that notwithstanding any other provision of law, no person shall be subject to any penalty for...commitment, and found that SDS hematopoiesis was left-shifted with selective loss of granulocyte-monocyte progenitors (GMPs). Differential gene

The Potential Value of the U.N. Convention on the Rights of the Child in Pediatric Bioethics Settings.

PubMed

Silva, Michael Da; Lew, Cheryl D; Lundy, Laura; Lang, Kellie R; Melamed, Irene; Shaul, Randi Zlotnik

2016-01-01

This article provides support for the use of a particular international human rights law document, the U.N. Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), in contemporary pediatric bioethics practice without relying on the legally binding force of the document. It first demonstrates that the CRC's core commitments and values substantially overlap with the core commitments and values of mainstream bioethics and with the laws of many domestic jurisdictions where mainstream bioethics are currently practiced. It then explores some implications of this overlap. For instance, the substantial international human rights law scholarship on how to understand these commitments and values can be helpful in suggesting ways to operationalize them in domestic bioethics practice and can offer insightful, internationally generated ethical perspectives that may not have been considered. The article also argues that the CRC can help health-care organizations develop policies consistent with the best interests of children and that the CRC can serve as a common language of values for transnational health-care collaborations. However, as a final case discussion demonstrates, whatever the merits of the CRC, one may face practical difficulties in trying to use it.

United States Department of Energy Environmental Restoration and Waste Management: Comment Response Document

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

Not Available

IN 1989, Secretary of Energy James Watkins called for a fundamental change in the way US Department of Energy (DOE) meets its environmental responsibilities. Whereas DOE had long subordinated environmental concerns to the higher priority of weapons production, the Department's mission was restructured to place less emphasis on defense-related production and much greater emphasis on sound environmental management and restoration of its weapons complex. To carry out this new mission, the Office of Environmental Restoration and Waste Management (EM) was created. Secretary Watkins further stressed that DOE's new commitment to environmental values will be carried out under a new DOEmore » culture-one of openness, responsiveness, and accountability. The Environmental Restoration and Waste Management Five-Year Plan is the key planning document that embodies both the new DOE emphasis on environmental management and the Department's commitment to involving the public in its planning process. Updated annually, the Five-Year Plan guides EM's efforts to clean up DOE facilities and manage its waste -- its accomplishments, goals, and planned activities -- and reinforces DOE's commitment to the culture change by involving the general public in its development.« less

United States Department of Energy Environmental Restoration and Waste Management: Comment Response Document. Five-Year Plan, Fiscal Years 1993--1997

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

Not Available

IN 1989, Secretary of Energy James Watkins called for a fundamental change in the way US Department of Energy (DOE) meets its environmental responsibilities. Whereas DOE had long subordinated environmental concerns to the higher priority of weapons production, the Department`s mission was restructured to place less emphasis on defense-related production and much greater emphasis on sound environmental management and restoration of its weapons complex. To carry out this new mission, the Office of Environmental Restoration and Waste Management (EM) was created. Secretary Watkins further stressed that DOE`s new commitment to environmental values will be carried out under a new DOEmore » culture-one of openness, responsiveness, and accountability. The Environmental Restoration and Waste Management Five-Year Plan is the key planning document that embodies both the new DOE emphasis on environmental management and the Department`s commitment to involving the public in its planning process. Updated annually, the Five-Year Plan guides EM`s efforts to clean up DOE facilities and manage its waste -- its accomplishments, goals, and planned activities -- and reinforces DOE`s commitment to the culture change by involving the general public in its development.« less

Potential reduction exposure products and FDA tobacco and regulation: a CNS call to action.

PubMed

Heath, Janie; Andrews, Jeannette; Balkstra, Cindy R

2004-01-01

A new generation of tobacco harm reduction products is stirring controversy and confusion among healthcare providers. These products, known as "potential reduction exposure products" (PREPs), can be described in terms of reported scientific evidence, as "the good, the bad, and the ugly." On the good side, there is sufficient scientific evidence to support the use of Commit, a new over-the-counter nicotine lozenge PREP, approved for smoking cessation. On the bad side, there is no scientific evidence to support the use of Ariva, another over-the-counter nicotine lozenge PREP, marketed as an alternative to cigarettes when smoking is restricted. On the ugly side, both of these PREPs are nicotine delivery systems with "candy-like" appearances; however, one (Commit) has the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval and the other (Ariva) does not. This article provides an overview of PREPs and strategies to help clinical nurse specialists (CNSs) address tobacco harm reduction issues.

Variability in climate change simulations affects needed long-term riverine nutrient reductions for the Baltic Sea.

PubMed

Bring, Arvid; Rogberg, Peter; Destouni, Georgia

2015-06-01

Changes to runoff due to climate change may influence management of nutrient loading to the sea. Assuming unchanged river nutrient concentrations, we evaluate the effects of changing runoff on commitments to nutrient reductions under the Baltic Sea Action Plan. For several countries, climate projections point to large variability in load changes in relation to reduction targets. These changes either increase loads, making the target more difficult to reach, or decrease them, leading instead to a full achievement of the target. The impact of variability in climate projections varies with the size of the reduction target and is larger for countries with more limited commitments. In the end, a number of focused actions are needed to manage the effects of climate change on nutrient loads: reducing uncertainty in climate projections, deciding on frameworks to identify best performing models with respect to land surface hydrology, and increasing efforts at sustained monitoring of water flow changes.

Variability in climate change simulations affects needed long-term riverine nutrient reductions for the Baltic Sea

DOE PAGES

Bring, Arvid; Rogberg, Peter; Destouni, Georgia

2015-05-28

Changes to runoff due to climate change may influence management of nutrient loading to the sea. Assuming unchanged river nutrient concentrations, we evaluate the effects of changing runoff on commitments to nutrient reductions under the Baltic Sea Action Plan. For several countries, climate projections point to large variability in load changes in relation to reduction targets. These changes either increase loads, making the target more difficult to reach, or decrease them, leading instead to a full achievement of the target. The impact of variability in climate projections varies with the size of the reduction target and is larger for countriesmore » with more limited commitments. Finally, in the end, a number of focused actions are needed to manage the effects of climate change on nutrient loads: reducing uncertainty in climate projections, deciding on frameworks to identify best performing models with respect to land surface hydrology, and increasing efforts at sustained monitoring of water flow changes.« less

Variability in climate change simulations affects needed long-term riverine nutrient reductions for the Baltic Sea

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

Bring, Arvid; Rogberg, Peter; Destouni, Georgia

Changes to runoff due to climate change may influence management of nutrient loading to the sea. Assuming unchanged river nutrient concentrations, we evaluate the effects of changing runoff on commitments to nutrient reductions under the Baltic Sea Action Plan. For several countries, climate projections point to large variability in load changes in relation to reduction targets. These changes either increase loads, making the target more difficult to reach, or decrease them, leading instead to a full achievement of the target. The impact of variability in climate projections varies with the size of the reduction target and is larger for countriesmore » with more limited commitments. Finally, in the end, a number of focused actions are needed to manage the effects of climate change on nutrient loads: reducing uncertainty in climate projections, deciding on frameworks to identify best performing models with respect to land surface hydrology, and increasing efforts at sustained monitoring of water flow changes.« less

Limitations of constitutional protections in Jackson v. Indiana pertaining to charges with no statute of limitations.

PubMed

Rodol, Liban; Epson, Martin F; Bloom, Joseph D

2013-01-01

There has been a long-standing link between the civil and criminal commitment procedures for individuals found incompetent to stand trial (IST). In the criminal system, when restoration of competency fails to be realized in a reasonable time, the civil commitment process becomes the default system for commitment. While there have been recent calls for improved mechanisms for predicting competence restorability, there has been little attention paid to individuals who can oscillate indefinitely between commitment in both the criminal and civil systems. We provide an example of one such case where an individual falls into the legal space that sits outside of the judicial guidance outlined in the landmark case Jackson v. Indiana. This review of Oregon public documents surrounding an ongoing murder case highlights the potential for indefinite detention of individuals who have been charged with serious crimes that do not have a statute of limitations, who are unlikely to be restored to competency to stand trial, and who are inconsistently found to be dangerous under civil commitment standards.

Salmonella Enteritidis Deposition inside Eggs after Experimental Infection of Laying Hens with Different Oral Doses

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The continuing attribution of human Salmonella Enteritidis infections to internally contaminated eggs has necessitated the commitment of substantial public and private resources to risk reduction and testing programs for commercial laying flocks. Cost-effective risk reduction requires a detailed und...

Review of LLNL Mixed Waste Streams for the Application of Potential Waste Reduction Controls

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

Belue, A; Fischer, R P

2007-01-08

In July 2004, LLNL adopted the International Standard ISO 14001 as a Work Smart Standard in lieu of DOE Order 450.1. In support of this new requirement the Director issued a new environmental policy that was documented in Section 3.0 of Document 1.2, ''ES&H Policies of LLNL'', in the ES&H Manual. In recent years the Environmental Management System (EMS) process has become formalized as LLNL adopted ISO 14001 as part of the contract under which the laboratory is operated for the Department of Energy (DOE). On May 9, 2005, LLNL revised its Integrated Safety Management System Description to enhance existingmore » environmental requirements to meet ISO 14001. Effective October 1, 2005, each new project or activity is required to be evaluated from an environmental aspect, particularly if a potential exists for significant environmental impacts. Authorizing organizations are required to consider the management of all environmental aspects, the applicable regulatory requirements, and reasonable actions that can be taken to reduce negative environmental impacts. During 2006, LLNL has worked to implement the corrective actions addressing the deficiencies identified in the DOE/LSO audit. LLNL has begun to update the present EMS to meet the requirements of ISO 14001:2004. The EMS commits LLNL--and each employee--to responsible stewardship of all the environmental resources in our care. The generation of mixed radioactive waste was identified as a significant environmental aspect. Mixed waste for the purposes of this report is defined as waste materials containing both hazardous chemical and radioactive constituents. Significant environmental aspects require that an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) be developed. The objective of the EMP developed for mixed waste (EMP-005) is to evaluate options for reducing the amount of mixed waste generated. This document presents the findings of the evaluation of mixed waste generated at LLNL and a proposed plan for reduction.« less

Awareness of Stress-reduction Interventions: The Impact on Employees' Well-being and Organizational Attitudes.

PubMed

Pignata, Silvia; Boyd, Carolyn; Gillespie, Nicole; Provis, Christopher; Winefield, Anthony H

2016-08-01

Employing the social-exchange theoretical framework, we examined the effect of employees' awareness of stress-reduction interventions on their levels of psychological strain, job satisfaction, organizational commitment, perceptions of senior management trustworthiness and procedural justice. We present longitudinal panel data from 869 employees who completed questionnaires at two time points at 13 Australian universities. Our results show that employees who reported an awareness of stress-reduction interventions undertaken at their university scored lower on psychological strain and higher on job satisfaction and commitment than those who were unaware of the interventions. The results suggest that simply the awareness of stress interventions can be linked to positive employee outcomes. The study further revealed that senior management trustworthiness and procedural justice mediate the relationship between awareness and employee outcomes. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

The Oregon Court of Appeals and the State Civil Commitment Statute.

PubMed

Bloom, Joseph D; Britton, Juliet; Berry, Wil

2017-03-01

In 1973 the Oregon Legislature passed a major revision of its civil commitment law adopting changes that mirrored those taking place across the United States. The new sections offered significant protections of the rights of individuals who are alleged to have mental illness, a limitation on the length of commitment, the adoption of both dangerousness and gravely disabled type commitment criteria and the adoption of "beyond a reasonable doubt" as the standard of proof for commitment hearings. From 1973 to the present time, the Oregon Court of Appeals adjudicated a large number of appeals emanating from civil commitment courts. This article is based on a review of 98 written Oregon Court of Appeals commitment decisions from the years 1998 through 2015 and is accompanied by a review of legislative intent in 1973. It appears that the court of appeals has significantly altered the 1973 legislative changes by moving the dangerousness criteria to imminence and the gravely disabled criteria to a focus on survival. Empirically, civil commitment has dramatically decreased in Oregon over a 40-year period and the case law, as developed by Oregon Court of Appeals, has had a significant contributing role in this reduction. © 2017 American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law.

WTO Dispute Settlement: Status of U.S. Compliance in Pending Cases

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-01-29

meat , poultry meat , and rice, for 2008 and 2009.183 Brazil’s request was based on language in the Arbitrator’s report directing the United States to...subsidy commitments regarding various unscheduled products (e.g., cotton, oilseeds, protein meals) as well as three scheduled products (rice, poultry ... meat , and rice).148 By providing export subsidies both to unscheduled products and to scheduled products in excess of its reduction commitments, the

Effects of Low-Dose Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR-ld) on Working Adults

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Klatt, Maryanna D.; Buckworth, Janet; Malarkey, William B.

2009-01-01

Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) has produced behavioral, psychological, and physiological benefits, but these programs typically require a substantial time commitment from the participants. This study assessed the effects of a shortened (low-dose [ld]) work-site MBSR intervention (MBSR-ld) on indicators of stress in healthy working…

Canada's Voluntary ARET Program: Limited Success Despite Industry Cosponsorship

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Antweiler, Werner; Harrison, Kathryn

2007-01-01

The Accelerated Reduction/Elimination of Toxins (ARET) Challenge was a voluntary program initiated in 1994 by the Government of Canada. Unlike the U.S. 33/50 Program, ARET involved industry partners in negotiation and cosponsorship of the program, with the intention that early involvement would yield stronger commitment to voluntary reductions. We…

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Problematic Internet Pornography Use: A Randomized Trial.

PubMed

Crosby, Jesse M; Twohig, Michael P

2016-05-01

Problematic Internet pornography use is the inability to control the use of pornography, the experience of negative cognitions or emotions regarding pornography use, and the resulting negative effects on quality of life or general functioning. This study compared a 12-session individual protocol of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) for problematic Internet pornography use to a waitlist control condition with 28 adult males, all but 1 of whom were members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Measures of self-reported pornography viewing, standardized measures of compulsive sexual behavior and related cognitions, and quality of life occurred at pretreatment, posttreatment, and 3-month follow-up. Results demonstrate significant between-condition reductions in pornography viewing compared to the waitlist condition (93% reduction ACT vs. 21% waitlist). When combining all participants (N=26), a 92% reduction was seen at posttreatment and an 86% reduction at 3-month follow-up. Complete cessation was seen in 54% of participants at posttreatment and at least a 70% reduction was seen in 93% of participants. At the 3-month follow-up assessment, 35% of participants showed complete cessation, with 74% of participants showing at least 70% reduction in viewing. Treatment suggestions and future directions are discussed. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

13 CFR 108.1230 - Draw-downs by NMVC Company under SBA's Leverage commitment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... documentation: (1) A statement certifying that there has been no material adverse change in your financial... to the best of your knowledge and belief, you are in compliance with all provisions of the Act and...

Helping Students Avoid Plagiarism.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wilhoit, Stephen

1994-01-01

Discusses how and why college students commit plagiarism, suggesting techniques that instructors can use to help student avoid plagiarism. Instructors should define and discuss plagiarism thoroughly; discuss hypothetical cases; review the conventions of quoting and documenting material; require multiple drafts of essays; and offer responses…

Potential for off-peak freight deliveries to commercial areas : implementation plan

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2007-12-21

This document discusses three groups of policies to foster off-peak deliveries. The first group, Industry wide policies, considers policies that target specific industry segments, e.g., tax incentives to restaurants in exchange for their commitment t...

Virginia PROGRESS : the Virginia Department of Transportation's intelligent vehicle-highway systems strategic plan.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1993-01-01

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is committed to Virginia PROGRESS, which is a program for Intelligent Vehicle-Highway System (IVHS) research, development, and deployment. This document, VDOT's IVHS Strategic Plan, will guide the Depa...

For The Record: Fiscal Years 1990 - 1996 Highway Improvement Accomplishments

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1997-03-01

This report provides a list of accomplishments from FY 1990 through FY 1996, summarizes the seven-year record of accomplishments and documents the department's accountability for the commitments made in 1989. During the seven-year period, $8.36 billi...

The political economy of health promotion: part 2, national provision of the prerequisites of health.

PubMed

Raphael, Dennis

2013-03-01

Governmental authorities of wealthy developed nations differ in their professed commitments and activity related to the provision of the prerequisites of health through public policy action. Part 1 of this article showed how nations identified as social democratic or liberal welfare states were those where such commitments are present. Nations identified as conservative or Latin welfare states were less likely to express such commitments. However, the political economy literature suggests that despite their expressed commitments to provision of the prerequisites of health, liberal welfare states fare rather poorly in implementing these commitments. The opposite is seen for conservative welfare states. Social democratic welfare states show both commitments and public policy consistent with this objective. Part 2 of this article documents the extent to which public policy activity that provides the prerequisites of health through public policy action differs among varying welfare state regimes. Despite extensive rhetoric concerning the prerequisites of health, nations identified as liberal welfare states do a rather poor job of meeting these goals and show evidence of adverse health outcomes. In contrast, social democratic welfare states fare better in providing such prerequisites--consistent with their rhetorical statements--with better health outcomes. Interestingly, conservative--and to a lesser extent Latin--nations fare well in providing the prerequisites of health despite their lack of explicit commitment to such concepts. Findings suggest that health promoters have to concern themselves with the broad strokes of public policymaking whether or not these policy activities are identified as health promotion activities.

Acceptance and commitment therapy as a treatment for problematic internet pornography viewing.

PubMed

Twohig, Michael P; Crosby, Jesse M

2010-09-01

Despite the prevalence of problematic Internet pornography viewing and the breadth of intervention approaches to potentially address it, no studies to address this problem have been reported to date. An emerging treatment approach, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), holds promise as a treatment for Internet pornography viewing because of its focus on processes hypothesized to underlie this maladaptive behavior. In the first experiment on the treatment of problematic Internet pornography viewing, 6 adult males who reported that their Internet pornography viewing was affecting their quality of life were treated in eight 1.5-hour sessions of ACT for problematic pornography viewing. The effects of the intervention were assessed in a multiple-baseline-across-participants design with time viewing pornography as the dependent variable. Treatment resulted in an 85% reduction in viewing at posttreatment with results being maintained at 3-month follow-up (83% reduction). Increases were seen on measures of quality of life, and reductions were seen on measures of OCD and scrupulosity. Weekly measures of ACT-consistent processes showed reductions that corresponded with reductions in viewing. Large reductions were seen on a measure of psychological flexibility, and minor reductions were seen on measures of thought-action fusion and thought control. Overall, results suggest the promise of ACT as a treatment for problematic Internet pornography viewing and the value of future randomized trials of this approach.

Documentation for the Waste Reduction Model (WARM)

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This page describes the WARM documentation files and provides links to all documentation files associated with EPA’s Waste Reduction Model (WARM). The page includes a brief summary of the chapters documenting the greenhouse gas emission and energy factors.

Review: Anal Intraepithelial Neoplasia in HIV-Infected Men Who Have Sex with Men: Is Screening and Treatment Justified?

PubMed

Wasserman, Peter; Rubin, David S; Turett, Glenn

2017-06-01

Anal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the fourth most prevalent cancer in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected men who have sex with men (MSM). Human papillomavirus (HPV) has been detected in over 90% of anal carcinoma biopsy specimens from MSM, and is considered a necessary, but alone, insufficient factor for carcinogenesis. Anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN) may be precursive for SCC, and screening cytology with referral of persons with abnormality for high-resolution anoscopy-guided biopsy, and AIN treatment, has been recommended for prevention. In the absence of either randomized controlled trials or surveillance data demonstrating a reduction in anal SCC incidence, these recommendations were based on analogy with cervical cancer. HPV-mediated genetic changes associated with cervical cancer, and aneuploidy, have been documented in AIN. However, little data exist on the rate of AIN progression to SCC. The treatment of AIN is frequently prolonged and not curative, and if routinized in the care of HIV-infected MSM, would likely be recurring well into their sixth decade of life. Clinical trials demonstrating a reduction in invasive anal carcinoma incidence, as well as acceptable morbidity with repeated AIN destruction, are needed before asking our patients to commit to routine treatment.

Commitment to quality of the Spanish scientific societies.

PubMed

García-Alegría, J; Vázquez-Fernández Del Pozo, S; Salcedo-Fernández, F; García-Lechuz Moya, J M; Andrés Zaragoza-Gaynor, G; López-Orive, M; García-San Jose, S; Casado-Durández, P

2017-05-01

This article summarises the objectives, methodology and initial conclusions of the project "Commitment to Quality of the Spanish Scientific Societies", coordinated by the Ministry of Health, Social Services and Equality, the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine and the Aragon Institute of Health Sciences, in which 48 scientific societies participate. This project's objectives are to decrease the use of unnecessary medical interventions, which are those that have shown no efficacy, have little or questionable effectiveness or are not cost-effective; decrease variability in clinical practice; promote the commitment among physicians and patients to properly use healthcare resources; and to promote clinical safety. The document includes 135 final recommendations for what not to do, prepared by 30 Spanish scientific societies. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier España, S.L.U. and Sociedad Española de Medicina Interna (SEMI). All rights reserved.

White Paper on Factors of Safety

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Raju, Ivatury; Stadler, John; Kramer-White, Jule; Piascik, Robert

2012-01-01

Following the Columbia Accident Investigation Board (CAIB) Report, the "Diaz Team" identified CAIB Report elements with Agency-wide applicability. The "Diaz Report", A Renewed Commitment To Excellence, generated an action to "Review current policies and waivers on safety factors". This document addresses this action.

45 CFR 95.610 - Submission of advance planning documents.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... and implementation; (v) A commitment to conduct/prepare the problem(s) needs assessment, feasibility... statement of the problem/need that the existing capabilities can not resolve, new or changed program..., planning activities/deliverables, State and contractor resource needs, planning project procurement...

45 CFR 95.610 - Submission of advance planning documents.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... and implementation; (v) A commitment to conduct/prepare the problem(s) needs assessment, feasibility... statement of the problem/need that the existing capabilities can not resolve, new or changed program..., planning activities/deliverables, State and contractor resource needs, planning project procurement...

45 CFR 95.610 - Submission of advance planning documents.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... and implementation; (v) A commitment to conduct/prepare the problem(s) needs assessment, feasibility... statement of the problem/need that the existing capabilities can not resolve, new or changed program..., planning activities/deliverables, State and contractor resource needs, planning project procurement...

Ontario's Primary Class Size Reduction Initiative: Report on Early Implementation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bascia, Nina

2010-01-01

Reduction in the size of classes from Kindergarten to Grade 3 was a major Liberal Party campaign promise in Ontario's 2003 provincial election. It was intended to demonstrate a new government's commitment to improving public education. By the 2008-09 school year, the provincial government's goals had been achieved: over 90% of all primary classes…

A Descriptive Evaluation of the Federal Class-Size Reduction Program: Final Report

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Millsap, Mary Ann; Giancola, Jennifer; Smith, W. Carter; Hunt, Dana; Humphrey, Daniel C.; Wechsler, Marjorie E.; Riehl, Lori M.

2004-01-01

The federal Class-Size Reduction (CSR) Program, P.L. 105-277, begun in Fiscal Year 1999, represented a major federal commitment to help school districts hire additional qualified teachers, especially in the early elementary grades, so children would learn in smaller classes. The CSR program also allowed funds to be spent as professional…

Pharmaceutical companies' policies on access to trial data, results, and methods: audit study.

PubMed

Goldacre, Ben; Lane, Síle; Mahtani, Kamal R; Heneghan, Carl; Onakpoya, Igho; Bushfield, Ian; Smeeth, Liam

2017-07-26

Objectives  To identify the policies of major pharmaceutical companies on transparency of trials, to extract structured data detailing each companies' commitments, and to assess concordance with ethical and professional guidance. Design  Structured audit. Setting  Pharmaceutical companies, worldwide. Participants  42 pharmaceutical companies. Main outcome measures  Companies' commitments on sharing summary results, clinical study reports (CSRs), individual patient data (IPD), and trial registration, for prospective and retrospective trials. Results  Policies were highly variable. Of 23 companies eligible from the top 25 companies by revenue, 21 (91%) committed to register all trials and 22 (96%) committed to share summary results; however, policies commonly lacked timelines for disclosure, and trials on unlicensed medicines and off-label uses were only included in six (26%). 17 companies (74%) committed to share the summary results of past trials. The median start date for this commitment was 2005. 22 companies (96%) had a policy on sharing CSRs, mostly on request: two committed to share only synopses and only two policies included unlicensed treatments. 22 companies (96%) had a policy to share IPD; 14 included phase IV trials (one included trials on unlicensed medicines and off-label uses). Policies in the exploratory group of smaller companies made fewer transparency commitments. Two companies fell short of industry body commitments on registration, three on summary results. Examples of contradictory and ambiguous language were documented and summarised by theme. 23/42 companies (55%) responded to feedback; 7/1806 scored policy elements were revised in light of feedback from companies (0.4%). Several companies committed to changing policy; some made changes immediately. Conclusions  The commitments made by companies to transparency of trials were highly variable. Other than journal submission for all trials within 12 months, all elements of best practice were met by at least one company, showing that these commitments are realistic targets. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

34 CFR 101.43 - Reduction of time to file documents.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 34 Education 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Reduction of time to file documents. 101.43 Section 101.43 Education Regulations of the Offices of the Department of Education OFFICE FOR CIVIL RIGHTS... Reduction of time to file documents. For good cause, the reviewing authority or the presiding officer, with...

Advance market commitments for vaccines against neglected diseases: estimating costs and effectiveness.

PubMed

Berndt, Ernst R; Glennerster, Rachel; Kremer, Michael R; Lee, Jean; Levine, Ruth; Weizsäcker, Georg; Williams, Heidi

2007-05-01

The G8 is considering committing to purchase vaccines against diseases concentrated in low-income countries (if and when desirable vaccines are developed) as a way to spur research and development on vaccines for these diseases. Under such an 'advance market commitment,' one or more sponsors would commit to a minimum price to be paid per person immunized for an eligible product, up to a certain number of individuals immunized. For additional purchases, the price would eventually drop to close to marginal cost. If no suitable product were developed, no payments would be made. We estimate the offer size which would make revenues similar to the revenues realized from investments in typical existing commercial pharmaceutical products, as well as the degree to which various model contracts and assumptions would affect the cost-effectiveness of such a commitment. We make adjustments for lower marketing costs under an advance market commitment and the risk that a developer may have to share the market with subsequent developers. We also show how this second risk could be reduced, and money saved, by introducing a superiority clause to a commitment. Under conservative assumptions, we document that a commitment comparable in value to sales earned by the average of a sample of recently launched commercial products (adjusted for lower marketing costs) would be a highly cost-effective way to address HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis. Sensitivity analyses suggest most characteristics of a hypothetical vaccine would have little effect on the cost-effectiveness, but that the duration of protection conferred by a vaccine strongly affects potential cost-effectiveness. Readers can conduct their own sensitivity analyses employing a web-based spreadsheet tool. Copyright (c) 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Intense Loyalty in Organizations: A Case Study of College Athletics.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Adler, Peter; Adler, Patricia A.

1988-01-01

Using data gathered during a five-year participant-observation study of a major college basketball program, this paper examines the intense form of organizational loyalty associated with college athletics. Finds five essential ingredients for developing intense organizational loyalty: documentation, identification, commitment, integration, and…

Student Teachers in Tibet: A Case Study.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Su, Zhixin; Hawkins, John N.; Zhao, Chunhua; Huang, Tao

2002-01-01

Compared Tibetan student teachers' characteristics and attitudes to those of their mainstream Chinese counterparts. Surveys, interviews, observations, and document reviews revealed both similarities and differences. Tibetan student teachers tended to be middle class males, choose teaching for intrinsic reasons, and hesitate to commit themselves to…

Curriculum Development through YTS Modular Credit Accumulation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Further Education Unit, London (England).

This document reports the evaluation of the collaborately developed Modular Training Framework (MainFrame), a British curriculum development project, built around a commitment to a competency-based, modular credit accumulation program. The collaborators were three local education authorities (LEAs), those of Bedfordshire, Haringey, and Sheffield,…

Acquisition plan for Digital Document Storage (DDS) prototype system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1990-01-01

NASA Headquarters maintains a continuing interest in and commitment to exploring the use of new technology to support productivity improvements in meeting service requirements tasked to the NASA Scientific and Technical Information (STI) Facility, and to support cost effective approaches to the development and delivery of enhanced levels of service provided by the STI Facility. The DDS project has been pursued with this interest and commitment in mind. It is believed that DDS will provide improved archival blowback quality and service for ad hoc requests for paper copies of documents archived and serviced centrally at the STI Facility. It will also develop an operating capability to scan, digitize, store, and reproduce paper copies of 5000 NASA technical reports archived annually at the STI Facility and serviced to the user community. Additionally, it will provide NASA Headquarters and field installations with on-demand, remote, electronic retrieval of digitized, bilevel, bit mapped report images along with branched, nonsequential retrieval of report subparts.

Rationales for the Lightning Flight-Commit Criteria

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Willett, John C. (Editor); Merceret, Francis J.; Krider, E. Philip; Dye, James E.; OBrien, T. Paul; Rust, W. David; Walterscheid, Richard L.; Madura, John T.; Christian, Hugh J.

2010-01-01

Since natural and artificially-initiated (or "triggered") lightning are demonstrated hazards to the launch of space vehicles, the American space program has responded by establishing a set of Lightning Flight Commit Criteria (LFCC), also known as Lightning Launch Commit Criteria (LLCC), and associated Definitions to mitigate the risk. The LLCC apply to all Federal Government ranges and similar LFCC have been adopted by the Federal Aviation Administration for application at state-operated and private spaceports. The LLCC and Definitions have been developed, reviewed, and approved over the years of the American space program, progressing from relatively simple rules in the mid-twentieth century (that were inadequate) to a complex suite for launch operations in the early 21st century. During this evolutionary process, a "Lightning Advisory Panel (LAP)" of top American scientists in the field of atmospheric electricity was established to guide it. Details of this process are provided in a companion document entitled "A History of the Lightning Launch Commit Criteria and the Lightning Advisory Panel for America s Space program" which is available as NASA Special Publication 2010-216283. As new knowledge and additional operational experience have been gained, the LFCC/LLCC have been updated to preserve or increase their safety and to increase launch availability. All launches of both manned and unmanned vehicles at all Federal Government ranges now use the same rules. This simplifies their application and minimizes the cost of the weather infrastructure to support them. Vehicle operators and Range safety personnel have requested that the LAP provide a detailed written rationale for each of the LFCC so that they may better understand and appreciate the scientific and operational justifications for them. This document provides the requested rationales

Defense Threat Reduction Agency > Careers > Onboarding

Science.gov Websites

, click HERE. Let's Get Started Our values allow personnel to achieve their commitment to total customer satisfaction by meeting and anticipating customer needs. INTEGRITY SERVICE EXCELLENCE INNOVATION TEAMWORK

The promise of spirit at work: increasing job satisfaction and organizational commitment and reducing turnover and absenteeism in long-term care.

PubMed

Kinjerski, Val; Skrypnek, Berna J

2008-10-01

The effectiveness of a spirit at work program in long-term care was evaluated using a quasi-experimental, pretest-posttest design. These findings, along with focus group results, provide strong support that the program increased spirit at work, job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and organizational culture (particularly teamwork and morale), leading to a reduction in turnover and absenteeism--two major concerns in the long-term care sector. This study suggests that implementation of a spirit at work program is a relatively inexpensive way to enhance the work satisfaction of employees, increase their commitment to the organization (thus reducing turnover and absenteeism), and ultimately improve the quality of resident care.

Pulsed magnetic therapy increases osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells only if they are pre-committed.

PubMed

Ferroni, Letizia; Tocco, Ilaria; De Pieri, Andrea; Menarin, Martina; Fermi, Enrico; Piattelli, Adriano; Gardin, Chiara; Zavan, Barbara

2016-05-01

Pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy has been documented to be an effective, non-invasive, safe treatment method for a variety of clinical conditions, especially in settings of recalcitrant healing. The underlying mechanisms on the different biological components of tissue regeneration are still to be elucidated. The aim of the present study was to characterize the effects of extremely low frequency (ELF)-PEMFs on commitment of mesenchymal stem cell (MSCs) culture system, through the determination of gene expression pattern and cellular morphology. Human MSCs derived from adipose tissue (ADSCs) were cultured in presence of adipogenic, osteogenic, neural, or glial differentiative medium and basal medium, then exposed to ELF-PEMFs daily stimulation for 21days. Control cultures were performed without ELF-PEMFs stimulation for all cell populations. Effects on commitment were evaluated after 21days of cultures. The results suggested ELF-PEMFs does not influence ADSCs commitment and does not promote adipogenic, osteogenic, neural or glial differentiation. However, ELF-PEMFs treatment on ADSCs cultured in osteogenic differentiative medium markedly increased osteogenesis. We concluded that PEMFs affect the osteogenic differentiation of ADSCs only if they are pre-commitment and that this therapy can be an appropriate candidate for treatment of conditions requiring an acceleration of repairing process. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Good Work Ensures Employment Success. Myths and Realities No. 2.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brown, Bettina Lankard

It is a myth that skills alone ensure employment. Other keys to workplace success include continuous learning, emotional intelligence, networking, flexibility, and commitment to business objectives. Although academic degrees, skill certifications, and other documentation of accomplishments provide access to employment, they are significant only at…

Employment Outcomes of Vocational Rehabilitation Clients with Autism Spectrum Disorders

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Alverson, Charlotte Y.; Yamamoto, Scott H.

2017-01-01

Research has consistently documented poor employment outcomes for young adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Vocational rehabilitation (VR) services provide substantial federal and state commitments to individuals with disabilities to obtain and maintain employment. To date, little research has examined the relationship between VR services…

U.S. Department of Transportation performance report fiscal year 2000 and performance plan fiscal year 2002

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2001-04-01

This document affirms the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) commitment to managing for results. It is DOT's second annual performance report and fourth annual performance plan. By combining the DOT performance report on 2000 results with the ...

Putting Customers First: Standards for Serving the American People.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Clinton, Bill; Gore, Al

This document, part of the Clinton Administration's "Reinventing Government" initiative involving a long-term, significant revamping of the federal bureaucracy, presents a comprehensive set of published customer service standards for the United States Government. It presents more than 1,500 standards representing commitments from more…

Carbon accounting in the United Kingdom water sector: a review.

PubMed

Prescott, C

2009-01-01

The UK is committed to greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction targets and has introduced a number of initiatives to achieve these. Until recently, these targeted energy-intensive industries and, thus, the water sector was not significantly affected. However, from 2010, UK water companies will need to report their emissions under the Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC). Both Ofwat (the economic regulator for water companies in England and Wales) and the Northern Ireland Authority for Utility Regulation (NIAUR) now require annual reporting of GHG emissions in accordance with both Defra Guidelines and the CRC. Also, carbon impacts must now be factored into all water industry investment planning in England and Wales. Building on existing approaches, the industry has developed standardised carbon accounting methodologies to meet both of these requirements. This process has highlighted gaps in knowledge where further research is needed.

Measles mortality reduction contributes substantially to reduction of all cause mortality among children less than five years of age, 1990-2008.

PubMed

van den Ent, Maya M V X; Brown, David W; Hoekstra, Edward J; Christie, Athalia; Cochi, Stephen L

2011-07-01

The Millennium Development Goal 4 (MDG4) to reduce mortality in children aged <5 years by two-thirds from 1990 to 2015 has made substantial progress. We describe the contribution of measles mortality reduction efforts, including those spearheaded by the Measles Initiative (launched in 2001, the Measles Initiative is an international partnership committed to reducing measles deaths worldwide and is led by the American Red Cross, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, UNICEF, the United Nations Foundation, and the World Health Organization). We used published data to assess the effect of measles mortality reduction on overall and disease-specific global mortality rates among children aged <5 years by reviewing the results from studies with the best estimates on causes of deaths in children aged 0-59 months. The estimated measles-related mortality among children aged <5 years worldwide decreased from 872,000 deaths in 1990 to 556,000 in 2001 (36% reduction) and to 118,000 in 2008 (86% reduction). All-cause mortality in this age group decreased from >12 million in 1990 to 10.6 million in 2001 (13% reduction) and to 8.8 million in 2008 (28% reduction). Measles accounted for about 7% of deaths in this age group in 1990 and 1% in 2008, equal to 23% of the global reduction in all-cause mortality in this age group from 1990 to 2008. Aggressive efforts to prevent measles have led to this remarkable reduction in measles deaths. The current funding gap and insufficient political commitment for measles control jeopardizes these achievements and presents a substantial risk to achieving MDG4. © The Author 2011. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Infectious Diseases Society of America. All rights reserved.

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

PubMed

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

2012-01-01

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

Brief communication: Sendai framework for disaster risk reduction - success or warning sign for Paris?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mysiak, Jaroslav; Surminski, Swenja; Thieken, Annegret; Mechler, Reinhard; Aerts, Jeroen

2016-09-01

In March 2015, a new international blueprint for disaster risk reduction (DRR) was adopted in Sendai, Japan, at the end of the Third UN World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (WCDRR, 14-18 March 2015). We review and discuss the agreed commitments and targets, as well as the negotiation leading the Sendai Framework for DRR (SFDRR) and discuss briefly its implication for the later UN-led negotiations on sustainable development goals and climate change.

Counseling and Social Justice

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hunsaker, Robert C.

2011-01-01

In this article, the author expands on "The Scandal of Social Work Education," a National Association of Scholars study documenting the commitment to left-wing "social justice" in social work programs at ten major public institutions. He presents a critical exploration of social justice ideology in academic and professional mental health training…

Mental Retardation and the Law: A Report on Status of Current Court Cases.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Friedman, Paul

The document reports on five new cases and updates information on 29 previously reported cases regarding mental retardation and the law. Cases are divided into the following categories: classification, commitment, confidentiality, education, employment, protection from harm, sterilization, treatment, and zoning. Listed separately, by the above…

Community Development in Canada. Document 1.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lloyd, Antony John

This first survey of community development in Canada attempts to give a conspectus of activities past, in progress, and planned, in the communities of the socially and economically deprived Indians, Negroes, and Eskimos. It examines the extent of commitment of federal and provincial governments to community programs and projects, and comments on…

12 CFR 23.22 - Transition rule.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... conditions are satisfied: (1) The bank entered into the Section 24(Seventh) Lease in good faith; (2) The..., and the bank cannot reasonably avoid its commitment to do so; and (3) The bank determines in good faith, and demonstrates by appropriate documentation, that renewal of the lease is necessary to avoid...

Current Commitments under the GATS in Educational Services. Background Document.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, Paris (France). Centre for Educational Research and Innovation.

The GATS is a multilateral, legally enforceable agreement among members of the World Trade Organization (WTO) that regulates international trade services. Rules regulating internationally traded educational services, which include various types of exchange programs, are part of the agreement. Among the 42 member countries that have made…

North Carolina and the Southern Regional Education Board, December 2014

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Southern Regional Education Board (SREB), 2014

2014-01-01

This document details North Carolina's participation in Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) programs and services from December 2013 through November 2014. Appropriations from member states support SREB's core operations and general services. SREB leverages the long-standing commitment of member states to attract external funding for an array…

Oklahoma and the Southern Regional Education Board, December 2014

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Southern Regional Education Board (SREB), 2014

2014-01-01

This document details Oklahoma's participation in Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) programs and services from December 2013 through November 2014. Appropriations from member states support SREB's core operations and general services. SREB leverages the long-standing commitment of member states to attract external funding for an array of…

75 FR 60563 - Family Day, 2010

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-09-30

... Part III The President Proclamation 8570--Family Day, 2010 #0; #0; #0; Presidential Documents #0... Family Day, 2010 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Committed families shape... likelihood their loved ones will use alcohol and illicit drugs. On Family Day, we honor the devotion of...

77 FR 57981 - Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, Constitution Week, 2012

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-09-18

... than two centuries, our country has drawn enterprising men and women from around the world--individuals... on the basic rights and responsibilities of citizenship, the founding documents from which they were... Constitution, and reaffirm our commitment to the rights and obligations of citizenship in this great Nation...

24 CFR Appendix B to Part 3500 - Illustrations of Requirements of RESPA

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... title searches and related settlement services in connection with their transaction. B and A have an... title search and examination work, determines insurability of title, prepares documents containing... title search to determine insurability of the title, and the issuance of a title commitment where...

A Case Study of Leadership Transition: Continuity and Change

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cocklin, Barry; Wilkinson, Jane

2011-01-01

Few studies of school leadership succession document the processes of continuity and change, especially within situations where there has been a strong tradition of tenure of principal, within a "quality" school. This article examines how a new principal with a commitment towards notions of Learning Community Schools, "quality" teaching and…

The Emotional Work of Discomfort and Vulnerability in Multicultural Teacher Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cutri, Ramona Maile; Whiting, Erin Feinauer

2015-01-01

This study documents our efforts to implement an "ethic of discomfort" and a "pedagogy of discomfort" in our undergraduate multicultural teacher education courses. Commitments to these moral imperatives inherently involve emotional work for teacher candidates and teacher educators. Such emotional work, particularly in academia,…

An Educational Development Services in a Community College.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Johnston, E. F.; And Others

The document describes an educational development service designed to replace the more traditional student counseling service of a community college. It is committed to the principles of service, education and research and the implementation of both preventive and remedial programs which optimize all educational and personal growth opportunities.…

Affirmative Action Plan. Access, Equity, Opportunity. Fifth Edition.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

New York State Education Dept., Albany.

The Affirmative Action Plan of the New York State Education Department is described in this document. First, a policy statement is provided by the New York State Education Department, committing the Department to the development of: (1) programmatic approaches to the elimination of all unjust exclusionary employment practices, policies, and…

CCBD'S Position Summary on Federal Policy on Disproportionality in Special Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Skiba, Russ; Albrecht, Susan; Losen, Dan

2013-01-01

This document provides policy recommendations of the Council for Children with Behavioral Disorders (CCBD) regarding disproportionality in special education and the need for federal policy driving state regulations to support efforts to eliminate this outcome in schools. CCBD is committed to advancing knowledge, effective instruction, and advocacy…

Cypress College Strategic Plan, 2000-2004.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cypress Coll., CA.

This document outlines Cypress College's Strategic Plan to be used to guide decision-making and resource allocation for the years 2000 through 2004. The Strategic Plan begins with the Cypress College Vision Statement: building a college-wide learning community for student success. The Mission Statement states that Cypress College is committed to…

Institutional Change and Leadership Associated with Blended Learning Innovation: Two Case Studies

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Garrison, D. Randy; Vaughan, Norman D.

2013-01-01

This article documents the institutional change and leadership associated with blended learning innovation in higher education. Two case studies are provided that demonstrate how transformational institutional change related to blended teaching and learning approaches is predicated upon committed collaborative leadership that engages all levels of…

Towards the Goal of Full Employment: Trends, Obstacles and Policies.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Richards, Peter

Expanding upon a report presented to the International Labor Organization (ILO), this book documents the current world employment situation, including how it has fallen short, how current economic policies interact with world employment, and how improvements can be made. Chapter one, "The Commitment to Full Employment," describes how the…

UNICEF's Priorities for Children, 2002-2005.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

United Nations Children's Fund, New York, NY.

This document provides an overview of UNICEF's medium-term strategic plan for the period 2002-2005. Five priorities are detailed to which UNICEF has committed resources: (1) girls' education, completion of a quality primary school education for every girl and boy; (2) early intervention, promotion of integrated early childhood development to…

Reappraising Positivism and Education: The Arguments of Philippa Frank and Herbert Feigl

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Matthews, Michael R.

2004-01-01

This paper documents some of the "bad press" that Positivism has received in science education; it delineates the varied, and sometimes contradictory, ways in which educationalists characterize positivism; it indicates that Constructive shares the same philosophical commitments as the instrumentalist tradition in positivism; and it suggests that…

Policy Statements on Children, Youth, and Families.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

American Psychological Association, Washington, DC.

This publication documents resolutions of the Council of Representatives of the American Psychological Association (APA) related to children, youth, and families. It includes resolutions on: (1) children's mental health as indicated in Public Law No. 89-97; (2) the national commitment to early child development; (3) corporal punishment in…

Journal of South African Trip: January 14-March 1, 1986.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rogers, Carl R.

1987-01-01

Provides a personal account, dictated en route, of Carl Rogers' experiences during his trip to South Africa. Documents extensive commitment to people and to a process leading to peace. Journal ends with conviction that violence can be avoided and that no group really wants violence. (Author)

3 CFR 8724 - Proclamation 8724 of October 3, 2011. National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, 2011

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... Breast Cancer Awareness Month, 2011 8724 Proclamation 8724 Presidential Documents Proclamations Proclamation 8724 of October 3, 2011 Proc. 8724 National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, 2011By the President of... commitment to preventing and treating breast cancer, and to supporting those courageously battling this...

Ribosome Levels Selectively Regulate Translation and Lineage Commitment in Human Hematopoiesis.

PubMed

Khajuria, Rajiv K; Munschauer, Mathias; Ulirsch, Jacob C; Fiorini, Claudia; Ludwig, Leif S; McFarland, Sean K; Abdulhay, Nour J; Specht, Harrison; Keshishian, Hasmik; Mani, D R; Jovanovic, Marko; Ellis, Steven R; Fulco, Charles P; Engreitz, Jesse M; Schütz, Sabina; Lian, John; Gripp, Karen W; Weinberg, Olga K; Pinkus, Geraldine S; Gehrke, Lee; Regev, Aviv; Lander, Eric S; Gazda, Hanna T; Lee, Winston Y; Panse, Vikram G; Carr, Steven A; Sankaran, Vijay G

2018-03-22

Blood cell formation is classically thought to occur through a hierarchical differentiation process, although recent studies have shown that lineage commitment may occur earlier in hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs). The relevance to human blood diseases and the underlying regulation of these refined models remain poorly understood. By studying a genetic blood disorder, Diamond-Blackfan anemia (DBA), where the majority of mutations affect ribosomal proteins and the erythroid lineage is selectively perturbed, we are able to gain mechanistic insight into how lineage commitment is programmed normally and disrupted in disease. We show that in DBA, the pool of available ribosomes is limited, while ribosome composition remains constant. Surprisingly, this global reduction in ribosome levels more profoundly alters translation of a select subset of transcripts. We show how the reduced translation of select transcripts in HSPCs can impair erythroid lineage commitment, illuminating a regulatory role for ribosome levels in cellular differentiation. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

When carbon footprints hop

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Petherick, Anna

2012-07-01

Despite having achieved legally binding commitments on emissions reductions, many countries have increased their appetite for carbon-intensive products, making up the difference through international trade. Anna Petherick reports on the sticky task of regulating these invisible carbon flows.

Food Companies’ Calorie-Reduction Pledges to Improve U.S. Diet

PubMed Central

Slining, Meghan M.; Ng, Shu Wen; Popkin, Barry M.

2013-01-01

Heretofore, corporate voluntary pledges to improve the health of Americans have been linked neither to explicit measurable commitments nor to a framework for an independent evaluation. The Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation (HWCF), whose members include 16 of the nation’s leading consumer packaged goods food and beverage manufacturers, voluntarily pledged to collectively remove 1 trillion calories from their products by 2012 (against a 2007 baseline), and 1.5 trillion calories by 2015. The pledge is designed to reduce the calorie gap commensurate with the HWCF companies’ role in the U.S. diet. To date, no system exists for documenting the nutritional and public health impacts of industry-led changes in the food supply on individual diets. The current study represents a unique opportunity to understand how the consumer packaged goods food and beverage sector is changing and how these changes are associated with changes in the American diet. It presents data on national caloric sales from this sector, purchases of these goods by various subpopulations, and methods linking these to individual intakes of Americans. Findings show that HWCF companies accounted for approximately 25% of calories consumed in the U.S. in 2007 and that the 1.5 trillion–calorie pledge (about 14 calories/day/capita) accounts for 0.8% of the calories sold across all consumer packaged goods food and beverage brands in 2007. The authors hope that this evaluation will continue to create models and methods for demonstrating the effects of changes in the food supply on individual diets, particularly among those from vulnerable subpopulations. PMID:23332336

Danish Perioperative Nurses' Documentation: A Complex, Multifaceted Practice Connected With Unit Culture and Nursing Leadership.

PubMed

Søndergaard, Susanne F; Lorentzen, Vibeke; Sørensen, Erik E; Frederiksen, Kirsten

2017-07-01

Researchers have described the documentation practices of perioperative nurses as flawed and characterized by subjectivity and poor quality, which is often related to both the documentation tool and the nurses' level of commitment. Studies suggest that documentation of nursing care in the OR places special demands on electronic health records (EHRs). The purpose of this study was to explore how the use of an EHR tailored to perioperative practice affects Danish perioperative nurses' documentation practices. This study was a follow-up to a baseline study from 2014. For three months in the winter of 2015 to 2016, six participants tested an EHR containing a Danish edition of a selected section of the Perioperative Nursing Data Set. This study relied on realistic evaluation and participant observations to generate data. We found that nursing leadership was essential for improving perioperative nurses' documentation practices and that a tailored EHR may improve documentation practices. Copyright © 2017 AORN, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Effects of nurses' social capital on turnover intention: focused on the mediating effects organizational commitment and organizational cynicism].

PubMed

Han, Jeongwon; Woo, Heeyoung; Ju, Eunsil; Lim, Sohee; Han, Sangsook

2013-08-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the casual relationship between nurses' social capital and turnover intention and to verify the goodness of fit between a hypothetical model and actual data in order to suggest the best model. This survey was conducted with 315 nurses working in general hospitals in Seoul. Data were collected from December 1 to December 30, 2011, and analyzed using SPSS Windows 18.0 and AMOS 16.0. Nurses' social capital was found to have a direct effect on reducting organization cynicism and increasing organizational commitment. Nurses' organizational cynicism and organizational commitment were found to have a direct effect on turnover intention, but social capital did not have a direct effect on turnover intention. However, social capital had a partial and indirect effect on turnover intention through mediating organizational cynicism and organizational commitment. Results of this study indicate that nurse managers should put increased effort in reducing nurses' organizational cynicism and improving their organizational commitment, two contrary parameters. At the same time managers need to develop plans to establish social capital more efficiently so that nurses have lower turnover intention.

Characteristics for the Identification of Children Who Commit Family Murder in South Africa.

PubMed

Moen, Melanie Carmen

2017-06-01

Children who commit family murder have been increasingly reported on in the South African media. Violence of this type has far-reaching consequences for families and communities. In this qualitative study, nine documented cases of children who committed family murder were analyzed to gain an in-depth understanding of the factors that contribute to children murdering family members. The personal and systemic reasons for these types of murders guided the research. The Interpersonal Parental Acceptance-Rejection Theory (IPARTheory) was used as theoretical framework. The researcher argues that the quality of the interaction between the parent and the child, as well as individual differences within a specific environment, is central to committing family member murder. A narrative summary of the general characteristics of children who kill a family member was compiled. In this study, the children were predominantly exposed to dysfunctional family environments characterized by problematic attachment to the caregiver/s, rejection, abuse, and extreme parenting styles. The parenting styles were often extremely authoritarian or in some cases permissive. The caregivers often expected the child to conform to their idea of the ideal child, and nonconformance resulted in punishment and rejection. These children presented with interpersonal relationship problems, anxiety, and aggression, and fantasized about escaping their challenging home environments. In some of the cases, the children abused alcohol and drugs. In only a few of the cases, signs of antisocial personality disorder were present. The family murders committed by children were predominantly committed by males. The weapons used in the murders were often everyday objects available in the environment. In this study, it was important to note that children who commit family murder have unique backgrounds and circumstances. Therefore, the characteristics discussed in this article only serve as a guideline to understanding these children.

44 CFR 361.6 - Documentation of matching contributions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

..., DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY PREPAREDNESS NATIONAL EARTHQUAKE HAZARDS REDUCTION ASSISTANCE TO STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS Earthquake Hazards Reduction Assistance Program § 361.6 Documentation of matching... comprising its earthquake hazards reduction project, including the project budget, shall reflect a level of...

44 CFR 361.6 - Documentation of matching contributions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

..., DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY PREPAREDNESS NATIONAL EARTHQUAKE HAZARDS REDUCTION ASSISTANCE TO STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS Earthquake Hazards Reduction Assistance Program § 361.6 Documentation of matching... comprising its earthquake hazards reduction project, including the project budget, shall reflect a level of...

44 CFR 361.6 - Documentation of matching contributions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

..., DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY PREPAREDNESS NATIONAL EARTHQUAKE HAZARDS REDUCTION ASSISTANCE TO STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS Earthquake Hazards Reduction Assistance Program § 361.6 Documentation of matching... comprising its earthquake hazards reduction project, including the project budget, shall reflect a level of...

44 CFR 361.6 - Documentation of matching contributions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

..., DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY PREPAREDNESS NATIONAL EARTHQUAKE HAZARDS REDUCTION ASSISTANCE TO STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS Earthquake Hazards Reduction Assistance Program § 361.6 Documentation of matching... comprising its earthquake hazards reduction project, including the project budget, shall reflect a level of...

44 CFR 361.6 - Documentation of matching contributions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

..., DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY PREPAREDNESS NATIONAL EARTHQUAKE HAZARDS REDUCTION ASSISTANCE TO STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS Earthquake Hazards Reduction Assistance Program § 361.6 Documentation of matching... comprising its earthquake hazards reduction project, including the project budget, shall reflect a level of...

Predictive power of individual factors and clinical learning experience on academic success: findings from a longitudinal study.

PubMed

Dante, Angelo; Fabris, Stefano; Palese, Alvisa

2015-01-01

Academic failure is the inability of a nursing student to graduate or to complete the nursing degree on time. This longitudinal cohort study, involving 2 Italian universities, documents the effects of selected individual variables and the quality of the clinical learning experience as perceived by students on academic success. Factors related to the clinical learning experience were the quality of the supervisory relationship, pedagogical atmosphere, and commitment of the ward related to the level of personalized nursing care delivered and clarity of nursing documentation.

Hanford Site Composite Analysis Technical Approach Description: Groundwater Pathway Dose Calculation.

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

Morgans, D. L.; Lindberg, S. L.

The purpose of this technical approach document (TAD) is to document the assumptions, equations, and methods used to perform the groundwater pathway radiological dose calculations for the revised Hanford Site Composite Analysis (CA). DOE M 435.1-1, states, “The composite analysis results shall be used for planning, radiation protection activities, and future use commitments to minimize the likelihood that current low-level waste disposal activities will result in the need for future corrective or remedial actions to adequately protect the public and the environment.”

Does smoking cannabis affect work commitment?

PubMed

Hyggen, Christer

2012-07-01

  This study aimed to examine the associations between cannabis use and work commitment.   We used a 25-year panel survey initiated in 1985 with follow-ups in 1987, 1989, 1993, 2003 and 2010. Registered data from a range of public registers were matched with individual responses for the entire period.   The panel survey was a nation-wide study set in Norway.   A total of 1997 respondents born between 1965 and 1968 were included in the panel.   Work involvement scale (WIS) was used to assess work commitment. Involvement with cannabis was based on self-reported smoking of cannabis within the last 12 months and exposure to cannabis through friends. This information was categorized into 'abstaining', 'exposed', 'experimented' and 'involved'. Control measures included socio-economic background, mental health (HSCL-10), education, work satisfaction, unemployment, receipt of social assistance, consumption of alcohol, alcohol-related problems and use of other illicit drugs.   The level of work commitment was associated with involvement with cannabis. In 1993, when the respondents were in their mid-20s, those who were involved or had experimented with cannabis displayed lower levels of work commitment than those who were abstaining or merely exposed to cannabis through friends (P < 0.05). Work commitment among those who experimented with cannabis converged towards the levels reported by abstainers and the exposed as they grew older, whereas those involved reported decreasing work commitment into adulthood (P < 0.001). Using linear regression models for panel data, an association with continued use of cannabis across the life-course and a lowering of work commitment was established. Results remained significant even when controlling for a range of other factors known to be related to work commitment, such as socio-economic background, education, labour market experiences, mental health and family characteristics (P < 0.05).   In Norway the use of cannabis is associated with a reduction in work commitment among adults. © 2012 The Author, Addiction © 2012 Society for the Study of Addiction.

The structural relationships between organizational commitment, global job satisfaction, developmental experiences, work values, organizational support, and person-organization fit among nursing faculty.

PubMed

Gutierrez, Antonio P; Candela, Lori L; Carver, Lara

2012-07-01

GUTIERAIM: The aim of this correlational study was to examine the relations between organizational commitment, perceived organizational support, work values, person-organization fit, developmental experiences, and global job satisfaction among nursing faculty. The global nursing shortage is well documented. At least 57 countries have reported critical shortages. The lack of faculty is finally being recognized as a major issue directly influencing the ability to admit and graduate adequate numbers of nurses. As efforts increase to both recruit and retain faculty, the concept of organizational commitment and what it means to them is important to consider. A cross-sectional correlational design was used. The present study investigated the underlying structure of various organizational factors using structural equation modelling. Data were collected from a stratified random sample of nurse faculty during the academic year 2006-2007. The final model demonstrated that perceived organizational support, developmental experiences, person-organization fit, and global job satisfaction positively predicted nurse faculty's organizational commitment to the academic organization. Cross-validation results indicated that the final full SEM is valid and reliable. Nursing faculty administrators able to use mentoring skills are well equipped to build positive relationships with nursing faculty, which in turn, can lead to increased organizational commitment, productivity, job satisfaction, and perceived organizational support, among others. © 2012 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Inequalities in health: approaches by health authorities in an English health region.

PubMed

McCarron, P; Yates, B

2000-06-01

In 1995 the Department of Health published Variations in health: what can the Department of Health do? This recommended that health authorities should have a comprehensive plan for identifying and tackling variations in health. We investigated how health authorities in the South and West Region were taking forward this work. Semi-structured interviews and reviews of documentation were conducted in all health authorities in the South and West Region of England. All health authorities viewed tackling inequalities in health as important; however, explicit strategies did not exist and Health of the Nation targets were a vehicle for determining priorities of inequalities. Explicit corporate commitment was often weak. Analyses were being conducted to determine the magnitude of local health inequalities and to assist in designing appropriate interventions. The importance of alliance working was highlighted; much work was being done although success was variable. Efforts are being made throughout the South and West region to tackle inequalities in health. Although strategic vision at the corporate level was often lacking, there was evidence of commitment to taking the inequalities agenda forward within public health directorates. Strengthening of primary care and alliance working roles is essential. Recent national strategy documents, forthcoming legislation, and a review of health inequalities recognize the health effects of inequalities and require health authorities to collaborate with local partners to tackle these, and will offer opportunities to improve corporate commitment and alliance working. Uptake and success of these opportunities will have a major influence on progress in tackling health inequalities.

Commitment to Practice Change: An Evaluator's Perspective

PubMed Central

Shershneva, Marianna B.; Wang, Min-fen; Lindeman, Gary C.; Savoy, Julia N.; Olson, Curtis A.

2010-01-01

A commitment to practice change (CTC) approach may be used in educational program evaluation to document practice changes, examine the educational impact relative to the instructional focus, and improve understanding of the learning-to-change continuum. The authors reviewed various components and procedures of this approach and discussed some practical aspects of its application using as an example of a study evaluating a presentation on menopausal care for primary care physicians. The CTC approach is a valuable evaluation tool, but it requires supplementation with other data to have a complete picture of the impact of education on practice. From the evaluation perspective, the self-reported nature of the CTC data is a major limitation of this method. PMID:20457715

Disrupt"ive" or Disrupt"ed"? A Qualitative Study on the Construction of Indiscipline

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Araujo, Marta

2005-01-01

This paper examines current official discourses on school discipline in Britain. It analyses New Labour's recent documents in education, such as the party's manifestos, Green and White papers, and official guidelines, to understand which particular understandings of discipline are being promoted. In spite of a political commitment to social…

The Discourse of the Middle Ground: Citizen Shell Commits to Sustainable Development.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Livesey, Sharon M.

2002-01-01

Uses Foucauldian theory to interpret the Royal Dutch/Shell Group's first annual "report to society" and an expository text by Shell's expert consultant. Analyzes the document and the emerging phenomenon of social reporting in the context of a larger sociopolitical struggle over sustainable development. Reveals how Shell both accommodated…

The Rise and Fall of Citizenship and Human Rights Education in Turkey

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sen, Abdulkerim; Starkey, Hugh

2017-01-01

Purpose: This article shows the effects of competing political forces on citizenship education in Turkey during the period of commitment to European Union (EU) accession (1999-2005). Methodology: It draws on textbooks, archival documents and interviews. Whilst Turkey had a history of civic education to promote a secular national ethos and…

Violence after School: 1999 National Report Series. Juvenile Justice Bulletin.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Department of Justice, Washington, DC. Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention.

Reliable data indicate that children are safer at school than away from school and commit fewer crimes during school hours than after school ends. The data reported in this Bulletin document the need for schools and communities to develop strategies for youth during afterschool hours. Research indicates that juvenile violence peaks in the…

Political Mothering: Latina and African American Mothers in the Struggle for Educational Justice

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fuentes, Emma

2013-01-01

This article explores the process and impact of women organizing for educational justice in Northern California by documenting the efforts of a committed group of mothers who sought to address the disproportionate underachievement of Latino and African American students within their city's high school. Using a combined methodology of ethnography…

Library Law Handbook: State Laws Relating to Michigan Libraries. 1993 Edition.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Michigan Library, Lansing.

This document is a compilation of state laws relating to Michigan libraries, intended as a tool for library managers and as an expression of continued commitment to strengthening library services throughout the state. It reprints legislation directly related to libraries of all levels, including: library networks; regional libraries: district…

Supply Operations (DLA-O) Total Quality Management (TQM) Master Plan

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-07-01

This document briefly outlines the DLA Directorate of Supply Operations plan to implement total quality management . It seeks to provide better...service to customers at a lower cost through continuous process improvement and commitment from everyone in the organization. Keywords: TQM (total Quality Management ), Supply operations; Continuous process improvement. (KR)

A Case Study in Organizational Change: Evaluation in Cooperative Extension

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rennekamp, Roger A.; Engle, Molly

2008-01-01

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

The Purpose, Structure and Limitations of the Electoral College

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Webster, Gerald R.

2016-01-01

The U.S. Constitution was drafted in Philadelphia from late May to mid-September 1787. The fifty-five delegates to the Constitutional Convention gathered to revise the Articles of Confederation but soon decided to write an entirely new document. These "Framers" were committed to forming a representative democracy, but their largely…

75 FR 8171 - Privacy Act of 1974, as Amended; Proposed System of Records and Routine Use Disclosures

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-02-23

... applicable to this system of records entitled, the Administrative Law Judge/Public Alleged Misconduct... committed misconduct; and Provide us with management information to document, monitor, and track complaints..., and to assist us in deterring recurring incidences of ALJ bias or misconduct. B. Collection and...

3 CFR 8462 - Proclamation 8462 of December 2, 2009. International Day of Persons With Disabilities, 2009

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... Day of Persons With Disabilities, 2009 8462 Proclamation 8462 Presidential Documents Proclamations Proclamation 8462 of December 2, 2009 Proc. 8462 International Day of Persons With Disabilities, 2009By the... commitment to human rights and fundamental freedoms for persons with disabilities, the United States became a...

Policy, Procedures and Required Practices Regarding Teacher Evaluations in (Arch)dioceses across the United States

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Connor, Ann Catherine

2016-01-01

The universal foundation of all Catholic Schools is passing on the faith and ensuring high quality academic instruction is provided by qualified Catholic educators. This directive was affirmed in a document entitled, "Renewing our Commitment to Catholic Elementary and Secondary Schools in the Third Millennium," writing, "All…

24 CFR 570.506 - Records to be maintained.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... income persons, documentation for each assisted business shall include: (A) A copy of a written agreement containing: (1) A commitment by the business that it will make at least 51 percent of the jobs available to... and business to ensure that low and moderate income persons receive first consideration for those jobs...

NCES Handbook of Survey Methods. NCES 2011-609

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Burns, Shelley, Ed.; Wang, Xiaolei, Ed.; Henning, Alexandra, Ed.

2011-01-01

Since its inception, the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) has been committed to the practice of documenting its statistical methods for its customers and of seeking to avoid misinterpretation of its published data. The reason for this policy is to assure customers that proper statistical standards and techniques have been observed,…

24 CFR 401.407 - Closing conducted by PAE.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 2 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Closing conducted by PAE. 401.407... (MARK-TO-MARKET) Restructuring Plan § 401.407 Closing conducted by PAE. After the owner has executed the Restructuring Commitment, the PAE must arrange for a closing to execute all documents necessary for...

Challenges and Opportunities for State Systems of Community Colleges: A Document Analysis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Salinas, Cristobal; Friedel, Janice Nahra

2016-01-01

From their very beginnings, the community colleges have demonstrated a commitment to their founding principles of access, affordability, and quality. However, following February 2009, when President Obama set forth the agenda for U.S. postsecondary education to have the highest proportion of college graduates in the world by 2020, priority shifted…

Campus Leadership's Influence in Implementing a Community College's Sustainability Goals: A Case Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Larson, Barbara A.

2012-01-01

The case study documented one large, multicampus community college's progress in implementing sustainability goals outlined in the American College and University Presidents' Climate Commitment (ACUPCC). The case study examined the role of branch-campus presidents and the college president in institutionalizing sustainability. Responses…

Renewable Energy: Today's Contribution, Tomorrow's Promise. Worldwatch Paper 81.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shea, Cynthia Pollock

This document presents the position that renewable energy sources offer a timely alternative to dwindling oil supplies and to environmentally damaging coal combustion, although public support and financial backing need to be strengthened. An expanded use of renewables and a greater commitment to energy efficiency are the most cost-effective and…

Does Character Education "Really" Support Citizenship Education? Examining the Claims of an Ontario Policy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Winton, Sue

2007-01-01

The claim that the character education policy of a school board in Ontario, Canada supports citizenship education is examined. 181 documents were analyzed to determine the ways the policy supports and/or undermines citizenship education's goal to prepare students to become "knowledgeable individuals committed to active participation in a…

Association for Specialists in Group Work Principles for Diversity-Competent Group Workers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Haley-Banez, Lynn; Brown, Sherlon; Molina, Bogusia

1999-01-01

The Association for Specialists in Group Work (ASGW) has endorsed this document with the recognition that issues of diversity affect group process and dynamics, group facilitation, training, and research. These principles have been written as guidelines and represent ASGW's commitment to becoming increasingly aware, knowledgeable, and skillful in…

Information Technology for the Twenty-First Century: A Bold Investment in America's Future. Implementation Plan.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Office of Science and Technology Policy, Washington, DC. National Science and Technology Council.

This document is the implementation plan for the Information Technology for the 21st Century (IT[squared]) initiative. With this initiative, the Federal Government is making an important re-commitment to fundamental research in information technology. The initiative proposes $366 million in increased investments in computing, information, and…

Endangered Threads: Socially Committed Community Art Action

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Timm-Bottos, Janis

2011-01-01

This article describes a 9-month community action project that took the form of an art studio located in a thrift store. The purpose of the project was to creatively reduce clothing fabric waste from unused donations, and also to document the social justice and ecological issues involved in clothing production and distribution. Collaboration with…

School Climate Improvement Action Guide for Noninstructional Staff. School Climate Improvement Resource Package

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Center on Safe Supportive Learning Environments, 2017

2017-01-01

Improving school climate takes time and commitment from a variety of people in a variety of roles. This document outlines key action steps that noninstructional staff--including guidance counselors, social workers, school psychologists, office staff, bus drivers, maintenance and facility staff, and food service staff--can take to support school…

School Climate Improvement Action Guide for District Leaders. School Climate Improvement Resource Package

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Center on Safe Supportive Learning Environments, 2017

2017-01-01

Improving school climate takes time and commitment from a variety of people in a variety of roles. This document outlines key action steps that district leaders--including superintendents, assistant superintendents, directors of student support services, or others--can take to support school climate improvements. Key action steps are provided for…

22 CFR 201.73 - Limitations on the responsibilities of banks.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... banks issuing, advising, or confirming letters of credit and making payments under letters of credit or... accepted by the bank in the ordinary course of business in good faith. Except as may be required in the... this part 201, the letter of commitment, or any other implementing document, or may be inconsistent...

The State University System 2025 System Strategic Plan. Revised

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Board of Governors, State University System of Florida, 2014

2014-01-01

The State University System 2025 Strategic Plan strengthens the Board of Governors' commitment to achieving excellence in the tripartite mission of its state universities--teaching, research, and public service--for the benefit of Florida's citizens, their communities, and the state economy. The Strategic Plan is a living document that helps align…

3 CFR 8480 - Proclamation 8480 of March 1, 2010. Read Across America Day, 2010

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... America Day, 2010 8480 Proclamation 8480 Presidential Documents Proclamations Proclamation 8480 of March 1, 2010 Proc. 8480 Read Across America Day, 2010By the President of the United States of America A... require comprehension of the written word. On Read Across America Day, we reaffirm our commitment to...

Classic Maya bloodletting and the cultural evolution of religious rituals: quantifying patterns of variation in hieroglyphic texts.

PubMed

Munson, Jessica; Amati, Viviana; Collard, Mark; Macri, Martha J

2014-01-01

Religious rituals that are painful or highly stressful are hypothesized to be costly signs of commitment essential for the evolution of complex society. Yet few studies have investigated how such extreme ritual practices were culturally transmitted in past societies. Here, we report the first study to analyze temporal and spatial variation in bloodletting rituals recorded in Classic Maya (ca. 250-900 CE) hieroglyphic texts. We also identify the sociopolitical contexts most closely associated with these ancient recorded rituals. Sampling an extensive record of 2,480 hieroglyphic texts, this study identifies every recorded instance of the logographic sign for the word ch'ahb' that is associated with ritual bloodletting. We show that documented rituals exhibit low frequency whose occurrence cannot be predicted by spatial location. Conversely, network ties better capture the distribution of bloodletting rituals across the southern Maya region. Our results indicate that bloodletting rituals by Maya nobles were not uniformly recorded, but were typically documented in association with antagonistic statements and may have signaled royal commitments among connected polities.

Classic Maya Bloodletting and the Cultural Evolution of Religious Rituals: Quantifying Patterns of Variation in Hieroglyphic Texts

PubMed Central

Munson, Jessica; Amati, Viviana; Collard, Mark; Macri, Martha J.

2014-01-01

Religious rituals that are painful or highly stressful are hypothesized to be costly signs of commitment essential for the evolution of complex society. Yet few studies have investigated how such extreme ritual practices were culturally transmitted in past societies. Here, we report the first study to analyze temporal and spatial variation in bloodletting rituals recorded in Classic Maya (ca. 250–900 CE) hieroglyphic texts. We also identify the sociopolitical contexts most closely associated with these ancient recorded rituals. Sampling an extensive record of 2,480 hieroglyphic texts, this study identifies every recorded instance of the logographic sign for the word ch’ahb’ that is associated with ritual bloodletting. We show that documented rituals exhibit low frequency whose occurrence cannot be predicted by spatial location. Conversely, network ties better capture the distribution of bloodletting rituals across the southern Maya region. Our results indicate that bloodletting rituals by Maya nobles were not uniformly recorded, but were typically documented in association with antagonistic statements and may have signaled royal commitments among connected polities. PMID:25254359

Structured Transition of Wind Tunnel Operations Skills from Government-to Contractor-Managed

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dunn, Steven C.; Schlank, John J.

2010-01-01

In 2004, NASA awarded the Research, Operations, Maintenance, and Engineering (ROME) contract at NASA Langley Research Center to a team led by Jacobs Technology, Inc. A key component of the contract was the transitioning of the five large wind tunnel facilities from NASA managed and NASA or NASA/contractor workforces to fully contractor operated. The contractor would manage daily operations while NASA would continue to develop long-term strategies, make decisions regarding commitment of funds and commitment of facilities, and provide oversight of the contractor's performance. A major challenge would be the transition of knowledge of facility operations and maintenance from the incumbent civil servant workforce to the contractor workforce. While the contract has since been modified multiple times, resulting in a blended NASA/ROME workforce across the facilities, the processes developed and implemented to capture and document facility knowledge from the incumbent subject matter experts, build training and certification programs, and grow individual skills across subject areas and across facilities, are worthy of documentation. This is the purpose of this paper.

Environmental Release Prevention and Control Plan (ERP and CP) annual review and update for 1993

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

Jannik, G.T.; Mamatey, A.; Arnett, M.

1993-10-05

In the Environmental Release Prevention and Control Plan (ERP and CP), WSRC made a commitment to conduct the following follow-up activities and actions: (1) Complete the action items developed in response to the findings and recommendation of the Environmental Release Prevention Taskteam (WSRC-RP-92-356). (2) Complete all batch and continuous release procedure revisions to incorporate the attributes that WSRC senior management required of each procedure. (3) DOE-SR Assistance Managers and WSRC counterparts to reach consensus and closure on the identified engineered solutions documented in the ERP and CP, develop and drive implementation of facility changes per the agreements. (4) Continue tomore » analyze releases and monitor performance in accordance with the ERP and CP, and utilize the ALARA Release Guides Committee to drive improvements. (5) Conduct annual re-evaluations of the cost benefit analyses of the identified engineered solutions, and identify new options and alternatives for each outfall in response to site mission and facility changes. This report documents the efforts that have been completed over the past year in response to these commitments.« less

Housing First for Homeless Persons with Active Addiction: Are We Overreaching?

PubMed Central

Kertesz, Stefan G; Crouch, Kimberly; Milby, Jesse B; Cusimano, Robert E; Schumacher, Joseph E

2009-01-01

Context More than 350 communities in the United States have committed to ending chronic homelessness. One nationally prominent approach, Housing First, offers early access to permanent housing without requiring completion of treatment or, for clients with addiction, proof of sobriety. Methods This article reviews studies of Housing First and more traditional rehabilitative (e.g., “linear”) recovery interventions, focusing on the outcomes obtained by both approaches for homeless individuals with addictive disorders. Findings According to reviews of comparative trials and case series reports, Housing First reports document excellent housing retention, despite the limited amount of data pertaining to homeless clients with active and severe addiction. Several linear programs cite reductions in addiction severity but have shortcomings in long-term housing success and retention. Conclusions This article suggests that the current research data are not sufficient to identify an optimal housing and rehabilitation approach for an important homeless subgroup. The research regarding Housing First and linear approaches can be strengthened in several ways, and policymakers should be cautious about generalizing the results of available Housing First studies to persons with active addiction when they enter housing programs. PMID:19523126

Housing first for homeless persons with active addiction: are we overreaching?

PubMed

Kertesz, Stefan G; Crouch, Kimberly; Milby, Jesse B; Cusimano, Robert E; Schumacher, Joseph E

2009-06-01

More than 350 communities in the United States have committed to ending chronic homelessness. One nationally prominent approach, Housing First, offers early access to permanent housing without requiring completion of treatment or, for clients with addiction, proof of sobriety. This article reviews studies of Housing First and more traditional rehabilitative (e.g., "linear") recovery interventions, focusing on the outcomes obtained by both approaches for homeless individuals with addictive disorders. According to reviews of comparative trials and case series reports, Housing First reports document excellent housing retention, despite the limited amount of data pertaining to homeless clients with active and severe addiction. Several linear programs cite reductions in addiction severity but have shortcomings in long-term housing success and retention. This article suggests that the current research data are not sufficient to identify an optimal housing and rehabilitation approach for an important homeless subgroup. The research regarding Housing First and linear approaches can be strengthened in several ways, and policymakers should be cautious about generalizing the results of available Housing First studies to persons with active addiction when they enter housing programs.

Neurophysiological mechanisms in acceptance and commitment therapy in opioid-addicted patients with chronic pain.

PubMed

Smallwood, Rachel F; Potter, Jennifer S; Robin, Donald A

2016-04-30

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) has been effectively utilized to treat both chronic pain and substance use disorder independently. Given these results and the vital need to treat the comorbidity of the two disorders, a pilot ACT treatment was implemented in individuals with comorbid chronic pain and opioid addiction. This pilot study supported using neurophysiology to characterize treatment effects and revealed that, following ACT, participants with this comorbidity exhibited reductions in brain activation due to painful stimulus and in connectivity at rest. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

U.S. Draft Domestic Action Plan for Lake Erie

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

In 2016, in response to the 2012 Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement commitments, Canada and the U.S. adopted phosphorus reduction targets for Lake Erie. Each country is developing domestic action plans which outline strategies for meeting the new targets.

Microbiology of Shell Egg Production in the United States

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

A significant proportion of human illnesses caused by Salmonella are linked to the consumption of contaminated eggs. Substantial government and industry resources have been committed to comprehensive Salmonella testing and risk reduction programs for commercial egg-laying flocks. The implementation ...

Changes in the policy environment for infant and young child feeding in Vietnam, Bangladesh, and Ethiopia, and the role of targeted advocacy.

PubMed

Harris, Jody; Frongillo, Edward A; Nguyen, Phuong H; Kim, Sunny S; Menon, Purnima

2017-06-13

There is limited literature examining shifts in policy environments for nutrition and infant and young child feeding (IYCF) over time, and on the potential contribution of targeted advocacy to improved policy environments in low- and middle-income countries. This study tracked changes in the policy environment over a four-year period in three countries, and examined the role of targeted nutrition and IYCF advocacy strategies by a global initiative. Qualitative methods, including key informant interviews, social network mapping, document and literature review, and event tracking, were used to gather data on nutrition and IYCF policies and programs, actor networks, and perceptions and salience of nutrition as an issue in 2010 and 2014 in Bangladesh, Ethiopia, and Vietnam. Theoretical frameworks from the policy sciences were used to analyze policy change over time, and drivers of change, across countries. The written policy environment improved to differing extents in each country. By 2014, the discourse in all three countries mirrored international priorities of stunting reduction and exclusive breastfeeding. Yet competing nutrition priorities such as acute malnutrition, food insecurity, and nutrition transitions remained in each context. Key actor groups in each country were government, civil society, development partners and the private sector. Infant formula companies, in particular, emerged as key players against enforcement of IYCF legislation. The role of a targeted IYCF advocacy and policy support initiative was well-recognized in supporting multiple facets of the policy environment in each country, ranging from alliances to legislation and implementation support. Despite progress, however, government commitment to funding, implementation, and enforcement is still emerging in each country, thus challenging the potential impact of new and improved policies. Targeted policy advocacy can catalyze change in national nutrition and IYCF policy environments, especially actor commitment, policy guidance, and legislation. Implementation constraints - financing, capacity and commitment of systems, and competing priorities and actors - are essential to address to sustain further progress. The lack of pressing political urgency for nutrition and IYCF, and the uncertain role of international networks in national policy spaces, has implications for the potential for change.

Factors driving diabetes care improvement in a large medical group: ten years of progress.

PubMed

Sperl-Hillen, JoAnn M; O'Connor, Patrick J

2005-08-01

The purpose of this study was to document trends in diabetes quality of care and coinciding strategies for quality improvement over 10 years in a large medical group. Adults with diagnosed diabetes mellitus were identified each year from 1994 (N = 5610) to 2003 (N = 7650), and internal medical group data quantified improvement trends. Multivariate analysis was used to identify factors that did and did not contribute to improvement trends. Median glycosylated hemoglobin A1C (A1C) levels improved from 8.3% in 1994 to 6.9% in 2003 (P <.001). Mean low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol measurements improved from 132 mg/dL in 1995 to 97 mg/dL in 2003 (P <.001). Both A1C (P <.01) and LDL improvement (P <.0001) were driven by drug intensification, leadership commitment to diabetes improvement, greater continuity of primary care, participation in local and national diabetes care improvement initiatives, and allocation of multidisciplinary resources at the clinic level to improve diabetes care. Resources were spent on nurse and dietitian educators, active outreach to high-risk patients facilitated by registries, physician opinion leader activities including clinic-based training programs, and financial incentives to primary care clinics. Use of endocrinology referrals was stable throughout the period at about 10% of patients per year, and there were no disease management contracts to outside vendors over the study period. Electronic medical records did not favorably affect glycemic control or lipid control in this setting. This primary care-based system achieved A1C and LDL reductions sufficient to reduce macrovascular and microvascular risk by about 50% according to landmark studies; further risk reduction should be attainable through better blood pressure control. Strategies for diabetes improvement need to be customized to address documented gaps in quality of care, provider prescribing behaviors, and patient characteristics.

Strategies for Promoting a Work-Family Agenda. Report Number 973.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Friedman, Dana E.; Johnson, Arlene A.

This document, which is intended to help individual managers and task forces committed to development of a work-family agenda, is based on recommendations of the Work and Family Research Council, which is composed of 35 advocates of work-family policies within U.S. firms. Basic strategies for promoting (marketing) work-family programs within…

Least Restrictive Environment: Commitment to Implementation. Proceedings of the National Leadership Conference (Indianapolis, Indiana, May 20-21, 1987).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Irwin, Marilyn, Ed.; Wilcox, Barbara, Ed.

The document consists of proceedings from the 1987 Leadership Conference on the topic of least restrictive environment (LRE) for severely disabled students. Contents include the following presentations: "The OSEP (Office of Special Education Programs) Plan for LRE" (G. Thomas Bellamy); "Bringing about Integrated Community-Based Programs for…

The Presidential Scholarship Programme in Zimbabwe: A Living Case of the Political Will in Promoting Regionalisation in Higher Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zvavahera, Promise

2014-01-01

The study sought to explore the impact of the commitment and political will exhibited by the Government of Zimbabwe through the Presidential Scholarship Scheme in promoting regionalisation of higher education. The methodology employed document analysis, interviews and questionnaires to gather data from the stakeholders. The officials responsible…

Eocene Footwear. The Power to Change the World.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eckert, Doug; Nemes, Mark; Wilson, Ruth; Tanner, Gwendolyn; Christman, Scott; Spiker, Karen; Maser, Bryan

This document is a class simulation that details the work of a fictitious consulting firm that was challenged by a group of 10 doctors (who were each willing to commit $50,000) to study the feasibility of starting a company that would employ the greatest possible number of people from Monongalia and Preston counties in northern West Virginia. The…

An Icelandic Heritage: The Frame for One Teacher's Service (1946-2006)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Crippen, Carolyn

2015-01-01

This qualitative research manuscript details a biographical study, which documents the life story of one female teacher, Sylvia May Peiluck, of Gimli, Manitoba, an educator of 45 years. Her Icelandic heritage and her commitment to teach the children of Manitoba created a strong bond, a nexus. What educational changes did she witness during her…

Reflective Practice on Leadership Committed to Social Justice: Counter Story of an African American Superintendent

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dailey, Ardella

2015-01-01

The central assumption of this paper is that the use of autoethnography is the best approach to obtain a deeper understanding of the political context, organizational culture, and complex dynamics of a person's lived experience in a leadership position. The central narrative follows the accounts documented through systematic journaling, and…

Between "Veritas" and "Communitas": Epistemic Switching in the Reading of Academic and Sacred History

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gottlieb, Eli; Wineburg, Sam

2012-01-01

We compared how 8 religious believers (historians and clergy) and 8 skeptics (historians and scientists) read a series of documents on 2 topics: the Biblical Exodus and the origins of the first (American) Thanksgiving. Readings by religiously committed historians differed from those of their non-religious peers. Navigating between the competing…

The Jingle Jangle of Employee Engagement: Further Exploration of the Emerging Construct and Implications for Workplace Learning and Performance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shuck, Brad; Ghosh, Rajashi; Zigarmi, Drea; Nimon, Kim

2013-01-01

While research is emerging around the employee engagement construct, evolution is in early stages of development. Presently, some questions remain about how employee engagement differs from other well-researched and documented constructs such as job satisfaction, job involvement, and job commitment. Although such inquiry is seemingly academic in…

Closed Circuit TV Surveillance Systems in Educational Buildings: Crime Prevention in Schools. Building Bulletin 75.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Whitehouse, B.; Patel, M.; Gofton, K.

Recent years have shown an increase in arson, theft, and vandalism committed in educational facilities resulting in a need for managers to formulate security policies. This document provides technical advice and guidance on policy for the design, specification, installation, maintenance, operation, and management of closed circuit TV (CCTV)…

The Implementation of Inclusive Education in South Africa after Ten Years of Democracy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Engelbrecht, Petra

2006-01-01

Inclusive education in South Africa has not been promoted as simply one more option for education but as an educational strategy that can contribute to a democratic society. After the end of the Apartheid era the new democratic government committed itself to the transformation of education and key policy documents and legislation stress the…

School Climate Improvement Action Guide for Community Partners. School Climate Improvement Resource Package

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Center on Safe Supportive Learning Environments, 2017

2017-01-01

Improving school climate takes time and commitment from a variety of people in a variety of roles. This document outlines how community partners can support school climate improvements. Organizations and individuals can partner with schools in many different ways--from delivering or coordinating direct services to students and families inside or…

El Plan de Santa Barbara; A Chicano Plan for Higher Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chicano Coordinating Council on Higher Education, Santa Barbara, CA.

Published by La Causa Publications, the document is a Chicano plan for higher education in the universities and colleges in California. The manifesto found in the booklet states that "the self-determination of our community is now the only acceptable mandate for social and political action; it is the essence of Chicano commitment....Chicanos…

Reconsidering Regionalisation in Global Higher Education: Student Mobility Spaces of the European Higher Education Area

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shields, Robin

2016-01-01

This paper examines international student mobility between member states of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA), a group of 47 countries that committed to reforming their higher education systems to improve the comparability and compatibility of degrees. While increased student mobility is a key goal in its official documents, little…

Lessons from a One-to-One Laptop Pilot

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Peterson, Lana; Scharber, Cassandra

2017-01-01

The purpose of this study was to document the process one district used to design, develop, and implement a one-to-one pilot at its high school as part of its broader commitment to contemporary learning. Specifically, this qualitative case study (a) outlines the process of the laptop pilot, (b) describes the pilot implementation experience for…

Breaking into Public Policy Circles for the Benefit of Underserved Communities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Flores, Stella M.

2017-01-01

Stella M. Flores writes about how she learned to participate in the American political process through lessons from her immigrant family. As a quantitative scholar, she documents the commitment to rigorous, evidence-based research on equity noting that not all datasets are without politics or bias. From this perspective, the story of the Latino in…

School Climate Improvement Action Guide for Instructional Staff. School Climate Improvement Resource Package

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Center on Safe Supportive Learning Environments, 2017

2017-01-01

Improving school climate takes time and commitment from a variety of people in a variety of roles. This document outlines key action steps that instructional staff--including teachers, paraprofessionals, and others in the classroom who provide instruction or assistance--can take to support school climate improvements. Key action steps are provided…

School Climate Improvement Action Guide for School Leaders. School Climate Improvement Resource Package

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Center on Safe Supportive Learning Environments, 2017

2017-01-01

Improving school climate takes time and commitment from a variety of people in a variety of roles. This document outlines key action steps that school leaders--including principals, assistant/vice principals, and building leaders--can take to support school climate improvements. Key action steps are provided for the following strategies: (1)…

School Climate Improvement Action Guide for Working with Students. School Climate Improvement Resource Package

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Center on Safe Supportive Learning Environments, 2017

2017-01-01

Improving school climate takes time and commitment from a variety of people in a variety of roles. This document outlines key action steps to engage students in the school climate improvement process. Key action steps are provided for the following strategies: (1) Participate in planning for school climate improvements; (2) Engage stakeholders in…

School Climate Improvement Action Guide for Working with Families. School Climate Improvement Resource Package

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Center on Safe Supportive Learning Environments, 2017

2017-01-01

Improving school climate takes time and commitment from a variety of people in a variety of roles. This document outlines how family members--including guardians of students--can support school climate improvements. Key action steps are provided for the following strategies: (1) Participate in planning for school climate improvements; (2) Engage…

Singapore Meeting of Education Research Associations Sets the Stage for Establishing a World Education Research Association

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Educational Researcher, 2009

2009-01-01

This article discusses a meeting of education research associations from around the world which achieved a major goal toward establishing a World Education Research Association (WERA) in Singapore on November 24-25, 2008. At the meeting, representatives reaffirmed a commitment to establish WERA and finalized several key documents for its…

What Every Girl in School Needs To Know.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ransome, Whitney

This document provides a brief overview on the short-changing of girls in the education system. The paper suggests one solution may lie in the single-sex school for girls. Girls' schools are united in a long-standing commitment to learning environments that place girls first and foremost. All mentors and roles models provided are female, so that…

A Survey of U.S.-Based Efforts To Research and Conserve Biological Diversity in Developing Countries.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Abramovitz, Janet N.

The increasing loss of biological diversity, resulting from the loss of genetic diversity, the extinction of species, and the destruction of ecosystems, constitutes a crisis of global proportions. The resources being committed to its resolution are relatively small. This document summarizes a survey of U.S.-based organizations involved in…

Performance Appraisal vs. Quality Management: Getting Past the Paradox.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Marcum, James W.

A primary goal of the quality movement, like the traditional management techniques that preceded it, is to get the most committed effort possible from the members of the organization. This document surveys the literature in order to summarize the substantial debate on how to achieve that goal, and then offers a theoretical context of strategic…

External Tank Liquid Hydrogen (LH2) Prepress Regression Analysis Independent Review Technical Consultation Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Parsons, Vickie s.

2009-01-01

The request to conduct an independent review of regression models, developed for determining the expected Launch Commit Criteria (LCC) External Tank (ET)-04 cycle count for the Space Shuttle ET tanking process, was submitted to the NASA Engineering and Safety Center NESC on September 20, 2005. The NESC team performed an independent review of regression models documented in Prepress Regression Analysis, Tom Clark and Angela Krenn, 10/27/05. This consultation consisted of a peer review by statistical experts of the proposed regression models provided in the Prepress Regression Analysis. This document is the consultation's final report.

Enhancing Productivity: A Structured Approach to Downsizing.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Oehm, J. Kent

1991-01-01

Organizations that downsize in a rational and orderly manner can increase productivity. School districts can initiate a cost-reduction and restructuring program with an analysis of the responsibilities of each employee followed by communicating with, and renewing the commitment of, remaining employees. (MLF)

40 CFR 71.22 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... commits a company to achieving before January 1, 1994 sufficient reductions in hazardous air pollutants... Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) FEDERAL... this chapter. Act means the Clean Air Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 7401, et seq. Actual emissions means...

40 CFR 71.22 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... commits a company to achieving before January 1, 1994 sufficient reductions in hazardous air pollutants... Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) FEDERAL... this chapter. Act means the Clean Air Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 7401, et seq. Actual emissions means...

40 CFR 71.22 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... commits a company to achieving before January 1, 1994 sufficient reductions in hazardous air pollutants... Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) FEDERAL... this chapter. Act means the Clean Air Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 7401, et seq. Actual emissions means...

40 CFR 71.22 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... commits a company to achieving before January 1, 1994 sufficient reductions in hazardous air pollutants... Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) FEDERAL... this chapter. Act means the Clean Air Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 7401, et seq. Actual emissions means...

Food companies' calorie-reduction pledges to improve U.S. diet.

PubMed

Slining, Meghan M; Ng, Shu Wen; Popkin, Barry M

2013-02-01

Heretofore, corporate voluntary pledges to improve the health of Americans have been linked neither to explicit measurable commitments nor to a framework for an independent evaluation. The Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation (HWCF), whose members include 16 of the nation's leading consumer packaged goods food and beverage manufacturers, voluntarily pledged to collectively remove 1 trillion calories from their products by 2012 (against a 2007 baseline), and 1.5 trillion calories by 2015. The pledge is designed to reduce the calorie gap commensurate with the HWCF companies' role in the U.S. diet. To date, no system exists for documenting the nutritional and public health impacts of industry-led changes in the food supply on individual diets. The current study represents a unique opportunity to understand how the consumer packaged goods food and beverage sector is changing and how these changes are associated with changes in the American diet. It presents data on national caloric sales from this sector, purchases of these goods by various subpopulations, and methods linking these to individual intakes of Americans. Findings show that HWCF companies accounted for approximately 25% of calories consumed in the U.S. in 2007 and that the 1.5 trillion-calorie pledge (about 14 calories/day/capita) accounts for 0.8% of the calories sold across all consumer packaged goods food and beverage brands in 2007. The authors hope that this evaluation will continue to create models and methods for demonstrating the effects of changes in the food supply on individual diets, particularly among those from vulnerable subpopulations. Copyright © 2013 American Journal of Preventive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Health of Women and Girls Determines the Health and Well-Being of Our Modern World: A White Paper From the International Council on Women’s Health Issues

PubMed Central

DAVIDSON, PATRICIA M.; McGRATH, SARAH J.; MELEIS, AFAF I.; STERN, PHYLLIS; DiGIACOMO, MICHELLE; DHARMENDRA, TESSA; CORREA-de-ARAUJO, ROSALY; CAMPBELL, JACQUELYN C.; HOCHLEITNER, MARGARETHE; MESSIAS, DeANNE K. H.; BROWN, HAZEL; TEITELMAN, ANNE; SINDHU, SIRIORN; REESMAN, KAREN; RICHTER, SOLINA; SOMMERS, MARILYN S.; SCHAEFFER, DORIS; STRINGER, MARILYN; SAMPSELLE, CAROLYN; ANDERSON, DEBRA; TUAZON, JOSEFINA A.; CAO, YINGJUAN; COVAN, ELEANOR KRASSEN

2013-01-01

The International Council on Women’s Health Issues (ICOWHI) is an international nonprofit association dedicated to the goal of promoting health, health care, and well-being of women and girls throughout the world through participation, empowerment, advocacy, education, and research. We are a multidisciplinary network of women’s health providers, planners, and advocates from all over the globe. We constitute an international professional and lay network of those committed to improving women and girl’s health and quality of life. This document provides a description of our organization mission, vision, and commitment to improving the health and well-being of women and girls globally. PMID:21919625

The health of women and girls determines the health and well-being of our modern world: A white paper from the International Council on Women's Health Issues.

PubMed

Davidson, Patricia M; McGrath, Sarah J; Meleis, Afaf I; Stern, Phyllis; Digiacomo, Michelle; Dharmendra, Tessa; Correa-de-Araujo, Rosaly; Campbell, Jacquelyn C; Hochleitner, Margarethe; Messias, Deanne K H; Brown, Hazel; Teitelman, Anne; Sindhu, Siriorn; Reesman, Karen; Richter, Solina; Sommers, Marilyn S; Schaeffer, Doris; Stringer, Marilyn; Sampselle, Carolyn; Anderson, Debra; Tuazon, Josefina A; Cao, Yingjuan; Krassen Covan, Eleanor

2011-10-01

The International Council on Women's Health Issues (ICOWHI) is an international nonprofit association dedicated to the goal of promoting health, health care, and well-being of women and girls throughout the world through participation, empowerment, advocacy, education, and research. We are a multidisciplinary network of women's health providers, planners, and advocates from all over the globe. We constitute an international professional and lay network of those committed to improving women and girl's health and quality of life. This document provides a description of our organization mission, vision, and commitment to improving the health and well-being of women and girls globally.

Sense or Sensibility?: How Commitment Mediates the Role of Self-Service Technology on Loyalty

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, Sangeeta; Olsen, Line Lervik

It has been well documented that employing self-service technology (SST) results in considerable cost savings but few studies have examined its impact on consumers’ behavior. We apply a well-recognized model from the field of services marketing in an SST context. We examine how the established relationships between satisfaction, affective and calculative commitments, and loyalty are affected when the service is provided through a technology interface as opposed to service personnel. We then present two alternative perspectives on the role of SST. The first is based on the predominant assumption that SST is a moderator of the relationship between customer loyalty and its drivers, while the other rests on the assumption that SST is just another context and that its role in affecting customer loyalty is mediated by drivers of loyalty. A cross-sectional study conducted in the banking industry shows that SST does not change everything. The classical model of how customers evaluate services and the predictors of loyalty are replicated in the SST setting. Interestingly, SST does not have a direct influence on loyalty by itself but its effects are mediated by commitment. However, it is the affective commitment that is more important in forming loyalty toward the service provider.

Transuranic Waste Program Framework Agreement - December Deliverable July 2012

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

Jones, Patricia

Framework agreement deliverables are: (1) 'DOE/NNSA commits to complete removal of all non-cemented above-ground EM Legacy TRU and newly generated TRU currently-stored at Area G as of October 1, 2011, by no later than June 30, 2014. This inventory of above-ground TRU is defined as 3706 cubic meters of material.' (2) 'DOE commits to the complete removal of all newly generated TRU received in Area G during FY 2012 and 2013 by no later than December 31, 2014.' (3) 'Based on projected funding profiles, DOE/NNSA will develop by December 31, 2012, a schedule, including pacing milestones, for disposition of themore » below-ground TRU requiring retrieval at Area G.' Objectives are to: (1) restore the 'Core Team' to develop the December, 2012 deliverable; (2) obtain agreement on the strategy for below ground water disposition; and (3) establish timeline for completion of the deliverable. Below Grade Waste Strategy is to: (1) Perform an evaluation on below grade waste currently considered retrievable TRU; (2) Only commit to retrieve waste that must be retrieved; (3) Develop the Deliverable including Pacing Milestones based on planned commitments; (4) Align all Regulatory Documents for Consistency; and (5) answer these 3 primary questions, is the waste TRU; is the waste retrievable, can retrieval cause more harm than benefit?« less

Interpersonal aggression victimization within casual sexual relationships and experiences.

PubMed

Klipfel, Katherine M; Claxton, Shannon E; van Dulmen, Manfred H M

2014-02-01

The frequent occurrence of aggression within committed romantic relationships is well documented. However, little is known about experiences of interpersonal aggression within casual sexual relationships and experiences. This study aimed to describe the occurrence of emotional, physical, and sexual aggression victimization within committed romantic relationships, casual dating relationships, friends-with-benefit relationships, booty-calls, and one-night stands. College students (N = 172) provided data regarding the lifetime occurrence of emotional, physical, and sexual aggression across different forms of casual sexual relationships and experiences (friends-with-benefits, booty-call, casual dating, one-night stands, committed relationships). Emotional, physical, and sexual subtypes of aggression were reported across all casual sexual relationships and experiences. While a higher percentage of individuals who had been involved in committed relationships reported experiencing at least one form of aggression (approximately 69%), prevalence of at least one form of aggression ranged from approximately 31% to 36% for the various casual sexual relationships/experiences. Across relationships/experiences, emotional and sexual aggression were more common than physical aggression. The findings from this study indicate that emotional, physical, and sexual aggression occur across types of relationships and experiences. Thus, the current study underscores the importance of considering casual dating, friends-with-benefits, booty-calls, and one-night stands when assessing interpersonal aggression.

Nudging guideline-concordant antibiotic prescribing: a randomized clinical trial.

PubMed

Meeker, Daniella; Knight, Tara K; Friedberg, Mark W; Linder, Jeffrey A; Goldstein, Noah J; Fox, Craig R; Rothfeld, Alan; Diaz, Guillermo; Doctor, Jason N

2014-03-01

"Nudges" that influence decision making through subtle cognitive mechanisms have been shown to be highly effective in a wide range of applications, but there have been few experiments to improve clinical practice. To investigate the use of a behavioral "nudge" based on the principle of public commitment in encouraging the judicious use of antibiotics for acute respiratory infections (ARIs). Randomized clinical trial in 5 outpatient primary care clinics. A total of 954 adults had ARI visits during the study timeframe: 449 patients were treated by clinicians randomized to the posted commitment letter (335 in the baseline period, 114 in the intervention period); 505 patients were treated by clinicians randomized to standard practice control (384 baseline, 121 intervention). The intervention consisted of displaying poster-sized commitment letters in examination rooms for 12 weeks. These letters, featuring clinician photographs and signatures, stated their commitment to avoid inappropriate antibiotic prescribing for ARIs. Antibiotic prescribing rates for antibiotic-inappropriate ARI diagnoses in baseline and intervention periods, adjusted for patient age, sex, and insurance status. Baseline rates were 43.5% and 42.8% for control and poster, respectively. During the intervention period, inappropriate prescribing rates increased to 52.7% for controls but decreased to 33.7% in the posted commitment letter condition. Controlling for baseline prescribing rates, we found that the posted commitment letter resulted in a 19.7 absolute percentage reduction in inappropriate antibiotic prescribing rate relative to control (P = .02). There was no evidence of diagnostic coding shift, and rates of appropriate antibiotic prescriptions did not diminish over time. Displaying poster-sized commitment letters in examination rooms decreased inappropriate antibiotic prescribing for ARIs. The effect of this simple, low-cost intervention is comparable in magnitude to costlier, more intensive quality-improvement efforts. clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT01767064.

State Right to Refuse Medication Laws and Procedures: Impact on Homicide and Suicide.

PubMed

Edwards, Griffin

2016-09-01

As part of the expansive overhaul of the mental health system that occurred in the latter half of the 20th Century, many states passed laws that allow, under certain conditions, voluntary and involuntarily committed patients to refuse medication. While some predicted the consequences of these laws would be dire, the effect on violent behavior remains untested. The aim is to decipher any differences state right to refuse medication laws may have on violence. Using the homicide rate of every US state between 1972 and 2001 (N = 1,479), and the suicide rate between 1981 and 2001 (N = 1,071). The study compares the difference in homicide/suicide rates before and after a law change to that same difference in a set of control states to estimate the effect of laws aimed at extending the right to refuse medication to both voluntary and involuntarily committed mental health patients. Laws designed to allow voluntarily committed patients to refuse medication are associated with a 0.8 increase in homicides per 100,000 of the state population while laws dictating an involuntarily committed patient's right to request refusal of medication are negative but statistically insignificant using standard t test. Laws designed to allow voluntarily committed patients to refuse medication have no statistically significant effect on suicides while laws dictating an involuntarily committed patient's right to request refusal of medication, specifically when the request is reviewed by independent mental health professionals, are associated with a statistically significant reduction in suicides. Allowing voluntarily committed patients to refuse medication may entice some to enter in-patient facilities, but the brief and optional exposure to medication and their side effects may actually discourage treatment and increase violence.

Energy Challenges: Isolating Results Due to Behavior Change

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Boulton, Kelly; Pallant, Eric; Bradshaw-Wilson, Casey; Choate, Beth; Carbone, Ian

2017-01-01

Purpose: Approximately 700 colleges and universities have committed to climate neutrality, which will require significant reductions in energy consumption. This paper aims to explore the effectiveness of an Annual Energy Challenge in curtailing electricity use by changing consumption behaviors at one liberal arts college.…

Burnout among the Addiction Counseling Workforce: The Differential Roles of Mindfulness and Values-based Processes and Work-site Factors*

PubMed Central

Vilardaga, Roger; Luoma, Jason B.; Hayes, Steven C.; Pistorello, Jacqueline; Levin, Michael E.; Hildebrandt, Mikaela J.; Kohlenberg, Barbara; Roget, Nancy A.; Bond, Frank

2011-01-01

Although work-site factors have been shown to be a consistent predictor of burnout, the importance of mindfulness and values-based processes among addiction counselors has been little examined. In this study we explored how strongly experiential avoidance, cognitive fusion and values commitment related to burnout after controlling for well-established work-site factors (job control, co-worker support, supervisor support, salary, workload and tenure). We conducted a cross-sectional survey among 699 addiction counselors working for urban substance abuse treatment providers in six states of the U.S.A. Results corroborated the importance of work-site factors for burnout reduction in this specific population, but we found that mindfulness and values-based processes had a stronger and more consistent relationship with burnout as compared to work-site factors. We conclude that interventions that target experiential avoidance, cognitive fusion and values commitment may provide a possible new direction for the reduction of burnout among addiction counselors. PMID:21257281

Acceptance and commitment group therapy for health anxiety--results from a pilot study.

PubMed

Eilenberg, T; Kronstrand, L; Fink, P; Frostholm, L

2013-06-01

Health anxiety (or hypochondriasis) is prevalent, may be persistent and disabling for the sufferers and associated with high societal costs. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a new third-wave behavioral cognitive therapy that has not yet been tested in health anxiety. 34 consecutive Danish patients with severe health anxiety were referred from general practitioners or hospital departments and received a ten-session ACT group therapy. Patients were followed up by questionnaires for 6 months. There were significant reductions in health anxiety, somatic symptoms and emotional distress at 6 months compared to baseline: a 49% reduction in health anxiety (Whiteley-7 Index), a 47% decrease in emotional distress (SCL-8), and a 40% decrease in somatic symptoms (SCL-90R Somatization Subscale). The patients' emotional representations and perception of the consequences of their illness (IPQ) improved significantly, and 87% of the patients were very or extremely satisfied with the treatment. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Evaluation in an Autonomous Learning Scheme. Melanges Pedagogiques, 1977.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Henner-Stanchina, C.; Holec, H.

This document consists of a discussion of the place and nature of evaluation within the autonomous learning scheme developed by the Centre de Recherches et d'Applications Pedagogiques en Langues (C.R.A.P.E.L.). The center's commitment to the development of an autonomous learning scheme dates back several years. It is the outcome of an attempt to…

19 CFR Appendix B to Part 171 - Customs Regulations, Guidelines for the Imposition and Mitigation of Penalties for Violations of...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... introduction of merchandise by such means. It should be noted that the language “entry, introduction, or... document, statement, act, or omission is material if it has the natural tendency to influence or is capable...) determination of whether an unfair act has been committed involving patent, trademark, or copyright infringement...

19 CFR Appendix B to Part 171 - Customs Regulations, Guidelines for the Imposition and Mitigation of Penalties for Violations of...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... introduction of merchandise by such means. It should be noted that the language “entry, introduction, or... document, statement, act, or omission is material if it has the natural tendency to influence or is capable...) determination of whether an unfair act has been committed involving patent, trademark, or copyright infringement...

19 CFR Appendix B to Part 171 - Customs Regulations, Guidelines for the Imposition and Mitigation of Penalties for Violations of...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... introduction of merchandise by such means. It should be noted that the language “entry, introduction, or... document, statement, act, or omission is material if it has the natural tendency to influence or is capable...) determination of whether an unfair act has been committed involving patent, trademark, or copyright infringement...

19 CFR Appendix B to Part 171 - Customs Regulations, Guidelines for the Imposition and Mitigation of Penalties for Violations of...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... introduction of merchandise by such means. It should be noted that the language “entry, introduction, or... document, statement, act, or omission is material if it has the natural tendency to influence or is capable...) determination of whether an unfair act has been committed involving patent, trademark, or copyright infringement...

19 CFR Appendix B to Part 171 - Customs Regulations, Guidelines for the Imposition and Mitigation of Penalties for Violations of...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... introduction of merchandise by such means. It should be noted that the language “entry, introduction, or... document, statement, act, or omission is material if it has the natural tendency to influence or is capable...) determination of whether an unfair act has been committed involving patent, trademark, or copyright infringement...

Persephone's Triumph: Reflections of a Young Black Woman Becoming a Real Political Scientist

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brown, Ruth Nicole

2007-01-01

This article is a poetic retelling of insight gained as a Black woman surviving graduate school. The purpose of this autoethnographic narrative is to document a few pivotal graduate school experiences that illustrate all that it means to become disciplined in and by higher education. Although the violence committed in such a privileged space may…

Take the Community College Route to a Selective Public University Degree. Student Affairs Research & Information. AIR 2001 Annual Forum Paper.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chatman, Steve

This document, from the University of California, Davis, reports that California's three-tiered higher education system is committed to both open-access and selective admissions. Community college to four-year institution transfer programs are being pressed into service to meet both anticipated population growth and increased demand and to…

The Mapping Project: Preliminary Results from the National Survey of Faculty. Revised.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Drago, Robert; Varner, Amy

This document reports preliminary results from a national survey of college faculty performed as part of the Mapping Project. The project and the survey concern the ways faculty balance, or do not balance, commitments to work and family. The theoretical framework was based on the work of J. Williams (1991) and others who have argued that an…

What's Wrong with Student Fees? Renewing the Commitment to No-Fee, Open-Access Community Colleges in California

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Academic Senate for California Community Colleges, 2004

2004-01-01

The Academic Senate for California Community Colleges has maintained long-standing support for the no-fee, open-access concept of California's community colleges. This paper documents the history of the introduction of fees and the seemingly inevitable subsequent increases--all of which have been vigorously opposed by the Academic Senate. It makes…

13th Annual Systems Engineering Conference: Tues- Wed

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-10-28

greater understanding/documentation of lessons learned – Promotes SE within the organization • Justification for continued funding of SE Infrastructure...educational process – Addresses the development of innovative learning tools, strategies, and teacher training • Research and Development – Promotes ...technology, and mathematics • More commitment to engaging young students in science, engineering, technology and mathematics • More rigor in defining

Report of the Committee on the Status of Women in the Faculty of Arts and Sciences.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Harvard Univ., Cambridge, MA. Faculty of Arts and Sciences.

This carefully prepared document contains seven chapters: Women at Harvard: the Present Situation in the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Career Patterns and Academic Commitment, Women on the Faculty, Women in the Graduate School, A Note on Undergraduate Life, University Services, and a Summary of Proposals. Several of the sources for this work…

Clear Purpose...Complete Commitment: A Long-Range Program To Provide Louisianians with Library and Information Services Adequate to Their Needs, 1995-1999.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jaques, Thomas F.

This document presents the five year library plan for public libraries in Louisiana. It identifies the specific inadequacies in public library services, resources, facilities, and personnel; identifies the people who are to be served; reveals the geographical, sociological, economic, and educational barriers to the expanded use of libraries; and…

The consumer-provider relationship in the dental industry.

PubMed

Griffith, Andrew S; Abratt, Russell

2013-01-01

This article explains how a consumer's level of trust and commitment to his or her dental service provider factors into the relationship between the consumer and the dental professional. Very little research has been done that describes the complexity of this relationship. This article documents the complexity of and influences on that relationship by providing an interaction model of this relationship.

12 CFR Appendix B to Subpart G - Illustrative Written Source Documents for Higher-Priced Mortgage Loan Appraisal Rules

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... title commitment report detailing the seller's ownership of the property, the date it was acquired, or... Higher-Priced Mortgage Loan Appraisal Rules B Appendix B to Subpart G Banks and Banking COMPTROLLER OF...-Priced Mortgage Loans Pt. 34, Subp. G, App. B Appendix B to Subpart G—Illustrative Written Source...

Reflecting on Our Loss: Grieving and Learning Together--A School Community Faces Suicide

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bachta, Linda; Schwartz, Dan

2007-01-01

The authors work in a seventh and eighth grade middle school in a suburb of Chicago. At their school, they have built a community of learners in which they share a deep commitment to a progressive, child-centered approach to education. As stated in their district's philosophy document, they believe that "a school must be a place where…

Making God Known, Loved, and Served: The Future of Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in the United States

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Catholic Education: A Journal of Inquiry and Practice, 2008

2008-01-01

In June 2005, shortly before Rev. John I. Jenkins, CSC, became president of the University of Notre Dame, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops released a pastoral statement, "Renewing Our Commitment to Catholic Elementary and Secondary Schools in the Third Millennium." This document, building upon the rich experience of two…

Equity for Women in the 1990s: Regents Policy and Action Plan with Supporting Background.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Burke, Geraldine

Equal opportunity for women was last examined by the New York State Board of Regents in 1972. This document contains two papers: (1) a policy paper "Equal Opportunity for Women" prepared by the Regents reaffirming their commitment to gender equity by proposing an action plan; and (2) a background paper, "Equity for Women in the…

Methods of Sparse Modeling and Dimensionality Reduction to Deal with Big Data

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-04-01

supervised learning (c). Our framework consists of two separate phases: (a) first find an initial space in an unsupervised manner; then (b) utilize label...model that can learn thousands of topics from a large set of documents and infer the topic mixture of each document, 2) a supervised dimension reduction...model that can learn thousands of topics from a large set of documents and infer the topic mixture of each document, (i) a method of supervised

Exposure assessment of upper limb repetitive movements: a consensus document developed by the Technical Committee on Musculoskeletal Disorders of International Ergonomics Association (IEA) endorsed by International Commission on Occupational Health (ICOH).

PubMed

Colombini, D; Occhipinti, E; Delleman, N; Fallentin, N; Kilbom, A; Grieco, A

2001-01-01

This consensus document intends to supply a set of definitions, criteria and procedures useful to describe and, wherever possible, to assess the work conditions that can represent a physical overload for the upper limbs. The document is aimed at all the operators, i.e. occupational doctors but mainly technicians, who are, involved in risk exposure assessment and management. The document intends to provide methods and procedures easily applicable in the field, possibly not requiring sophisticated instrumentation and when possible based on observation procedures. The proposed methods shall be based as far as possible on knowledge and data from scientific literature: should they be contradictory or deficient, reference will be made to standards or pre-standards issued by national and international agencies and bodies, with the experience of researchers involved and common sense. In this regard, it is to be emphasized that the potential users increasingly demand an easily applicable method for description and assessment of work with repetitive movements. The group intends to give a response even if there are still uncertainties from a strictly scientific standpoint: however the group commits itself to perform subsequent validations especially of as yet unconsolidated issues. This document focuses specifically on identification of risk factors and describes some of the methods that have been developed for evaluating them. There is a rapidly developing body of literature on job analysis and not yet agreement on a single best way to analyze jobs. Professional judgement is required to select the appropriate methods. Analysis and design of jobs should to be integrated into an ongoing ergonomics program that includes management commitment, training, health surveillance, and medical case management. In summing up this report, space must be given to the check lists that are so often seen in the medical press, although this is not the occasion to propose a detailed analytical review.

40 CFR 63.75 - Enforceable commitments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... Pennsylvania Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20460 and the EPA Emission Standards Division (MD-13), Research Triangle... by a responsible official of the source, containing the following: (i) A statement providing the post... achieve before January 1, 1994, the stated post-reduction emission level(s) at the source, which will...

40 CFR 63.75 - Enforceable commitments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... Pennsylvania Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20460 and the EPA Emission Standards Division (MD-13), Research Triangle... by a responsible official of the source, containing the following: (i) A statement providing the post... achieve before January 1, 1994, the stated post-reduction emission level(s) at the source, which will...

40 CFR 63.75 - Enforceable commitments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... Pennsylvania Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20460 and the EPA Emission Standards Division (MD-13), Research Triangle... by a responsible official of the source, containing the following: (i) A statement providing the post... achieve before January 1, 1994, the stated post-reduction emission level(s) at the source, which will...

40 CFR 63.75 - Enforceable commitments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Pennsylvania Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20460 and the EPA Emission Standards Division (MD-13), Research Triangle... by a responsible official of the source, containing the following: (i) A statement providing the post... achieve before January 1, 1994, the stated post-reduction emission level(s) at the source, which will...

40 CFR 63.75 - Enforceable commitments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... Pennsylvania Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20460 and the EPA Emission Standards Division (MD-13), Research Triangle... by a responsible official of the source, containing the following: (i) A statement providing the post... achieve before January 1, 1994, the stated post-reduction emission level(s) at the source, which will...

Microbiological Consequences of Different Housing Systems for Laying Hens: Field and Experimental Infection Studies

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

A significant proportion of human illnesses caused by Salmonella are linked to the consumption of contaminated eggs. In response, substantial government and private industry resources are committed to comprehensive Salmonella testing and risk reduction programs for commercial egg-laying flocks. Envi...

Toward a Conceptual Clarification of Employee Responses to Flexible Working Hours: A Work Adjustment Approach.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pierce, Jon L.; Newstrom, John W.

1980-01-01

Elaborates on a work adjustment model to explain how flexible working hours can influence employee satisfaction, performance, absenteeism, tenure, organizational commitment, and job involvement. Discusses need fulfillment, stress reduction, and the harmonization of work with human circadian rhythms. (Author/RC)

Homicides by older offenders in New South Wales between 1993 and 2010.

PubMed

Reutens, Sharon; Nielssen, Olav; Large, Matthew

2015-10-01

Homicides by older people are rare and might differ from those committed by younger people. To investigate the characteristics of older homicide offenders in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. A systematic search of legal, criminological and media databases for cases of homicide committed by people in NSW aged 55 and over, during the 18 years from 1993 to 2010. Eighty-seven cases were identified through databases. Legal documents were obtained for 70 offenders, comprising about 5% of homicides committed in NSW in the period of the study. The proportions of male offenders and rates of firearm use were similar to other age groups. Twelve of the 14 homicides using guns occurred outside the metropolitan area. Older offenders were more likely to have cognitive impairment or psychotic illness. Victims were more likely to be female and in a domestic relationship with the offender. Homicide by an older person is rare, and more commonly involves a man killing a family member. Correctional facilities will increasingly have to consider the needs of older people serving long sentences. © The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists 2015.

A Ground-Up Model for Gun Violence Reduction: A Community-Based Public Health Approach.

PubMed

Byrdsong, T Rashad; Devan, Angela; Yamatani, Hide

2016-01-01

The suggested strategy for the reduction of violence is to collaboratively address the problem, based on an intervention system focused on prevention, rehabilitation, and development. This strategy is capable of engaging community residents in positive ways, and it empowers them to take ownership and sustain much-needed resident commitments to achieve long-term public safety. The community residents largely insist that over-reliance on law enforcement to control violence invites further affliction among Black youth and adults.

Predictors of motivation for abstinence at the end of outpatient substance abuse treatment

PubMed Central

Laudet, Alexandre B.; Stanick, Virginia

2010-01-01

Commitment to abstinence, a motivational construct, is a strong predictor of reductions in drug and alcohol use. Level of commitment to abstinence at treatment end predicts sustained abstinence, a requirement for recovery. This study sought to identify predictors of commitment to abstinence at treatment end to guide clinical practice and to inform the conceptualization of motivational constructs. Polysubstance users (N = 250) recruited at the start of outpatient treatment were re-interviewed at the end of services. Based on the extant literature, potential predictors were during treatment measures of substance use and related cognitions, psychological functioning, recovery supports, stress, quality of life satisfaction, and treatment experiences. In multivariate analyses, perceived harm of future drug use, abstinence self-efficacy, quality of life satisfaction, and number of network members in 12-step recovery contributed 26.6% of the variance explained in the dependent variable, a total of 49.6% when combined with the control variables (demographics and baseline level of the outcome). Gender subgroup analyses yielded largely similar results. Clinical implications of findings for maximizing commitment to abstinence when clients leave treatment are discussed as are future research directions. PMID:20185267

Orbiter data reduction complex data processing requirements for the OFT mission evaluation team (level C)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1979-01-01

This document addresses requirements for post-test data reduction in support of the Orbital Flight Tests (OFT) mission evaluation team, specifically those which are planned to be implemented in the ODRC (Orbiter Data Reduction Complex). Only those requirements which have been previously baselined by the Data Systems and Analysis Directorate configuration control board are included. This document serves as the control document between Institutional Data Systems Division and the Integration Division for OFT mission evaluation data processing requirements, and shall be the basis for detailed design of ODRC data processing systems.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for chronic pain: A diary study of treatment process in relation to reliable change in disability

PubMed Central

Vowles, Kevin E.; Fink, Brandi C.; Cohen, Lindsey L.

2016-01-01

In chronic pain treatment, a primary goal is reduced disability. It is often assumed that a central process by which disability reduction occurs is pain reduction. Conversely, approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) posit that pain reduction is not necessary for reduced disability. Instead, disability reduction occurs when responses to pain are changed, such that as unsuccessful struggles for pain control decreases and engagement in personally-valued activities increases. Treatment outcome studies have supported ACT’s effectiveness; however, less work has examined how within-treatment patterns of change relate to treatment success or failure (i.e., decreased or sustained disability). The present study, therefore, sought to examine this issue. Specifically, struggles for pain control and engagement in valued activities were recorded weekly in 21 patients who completed a four week interdisciplinary ACT intervention for chronic pain. It was hypothesized that the presence or absence of reliable change in disability at a three month follow-up would be predicted by within treatment patterns of change in the weekly data. At follow-up, 47.6% of patients evidenced reliable disability reduction. The expected pattern of change occurred in 81.0% of patients–specifically, when pain control attempts decreased and engagement in valued activities increased, reliably reduced disability typically occurred, while the absence of this pattern was typically associated with a lack of reliable change. Further, changes in pain intensity, also assessed weekly, were unrelated to reliable change. Overall, these results provide additional support for the ACT model and further suggest some possible requirements for treatment success. PMID:27818931

The Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation Pledge

PubMed Central

Ng, Shu Wen; Popkin, Barry M.

2014-01-01

Context An independent evaluation of the Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation (HWCF) marketplace pledge found that the participating companies met and exceeded their interim 2012 sales reduction pledge. Evidence acquisition This follow-up study conducted in 2013 used purchase data from 2000–2012 among U.S. households with children and compared trends in calorie purchases of HWCF, non-HWCF name brands, and private label (PL) products in the pre-pledge period (2000–2007) and the post-pledge period (2008–2012); controlled for potential effects of concurrent changes in demographic and economic factors, including the Great Recession and food prices; and assessed whether the HWCF marketplace pledge was associated with reductions in consumer packaged goods (CPG) calorie purchases by households with children. Evidence synthesis There has been a significant per capita decline in average daily CPG caloric purchases between 2000 and 2012 among households with children from all brand categories. Based on pre-pledge trends, declines in CPG caloric purchases were already occurring. However, post-pledge reductions in calories purchased from HWCF brands were less than expected, and reductions in calories purchased from non-HWCF name brands and PLs were greater than expected after economic, sociodemographic, and secular factors were accounted for. Conclusions If the 16 HWCF companies had been able to maintain their pre-pledge trajectory, there should have been an additional 42 kcals/capita/day reduction in calories purchased from HWCF products in 2012 among households with children. A lack of change in total CPG calories purchased between 2011 and 2012 calls into question the sustainability of the decline and a need for continued monitoring. PMID:25240968

[Parricide, abuse and emotional processes: a review starting from some paradigmatic cases].

PubMed

Grattagliano, I; Greco, R; Di Vella, G; Campobasso, C P; Corbi, G; Romanelli, M C; Petruzzelli, N; Ostuni, A; Brunetti, V; Cassibba, R

2015-01-01

The authors of this study tackle the complex subject of parricide, which is a rare and often brutal form of homicide. Parricide has a high emotional impact on public opinion and on our collective imagination, especially in light of the fact that the perpetrators are often minors.. Three striking cases of parricide, taken from various documented sources and judicial files from the "N. Fornelli" Juvenile Penal Institute (Bari, Italy), are presented here. A review of the literature on the topic has revealed differences between parricides committed by adults and those committed by minors. In the end, the complex issues underlying such an unusual crime are connected to abuses and maltreatment that minor perpetrators of parricide have suffered, especially the emotional processes that are activated.

Effects of job rotation and role stress among nurses on job satisfaction and organizational commitment

PubMed Central

Ho, Wen-Hsien; Chang, Ching Sheng; Shih, Ying-Ling; Liang, Rong-Da

2009-01-01

Background The motivation for this study was to investigate how role stress among nurses could affect their job satisfaction and organizational commitment, and whether the job rotation system might encourage nurses to understand, relate to and share the vision of the organization, consequently increasing their job satisfaction and stimulating them to willingly remain in their jobs and commit themselves to the organization. Despite the fact that there have been plenty of studies on job satisfaction, none was specifically addressed to integrate the relational model of job rotation, role stress, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment among nurses. Methods With top managerial hospital administration's consent, questionnaires were only distributed to those nurses who had had job rotation experience. 650 copies of the questionnaire in two large and influential hospitals in southern Taiwan were distributed, among which 532 valid copies were retrieved with a response rate of 81.8%. Finally, the SPSS 11.0 and LISREL 8.54 (Linear Structural Relationship Model) statistical software packages were used for data analysis and processing. Results According to the nurses' views, the findings are as follows: (1) job rotation among nurses could have an effect on their job satisfaction; (2) job rotation could have an effect on organizational commitment; (3) job satisfaction could have a positive effect on organizational commitment; (4) role stress among nurses could have a negative effect on their job satisfaction; and (5) role stress could have a negative effect on their organizational commitment. Conclusion As a practical and excellent strategy for manpower utilization, a hospital could promote the benefits of job rotation to both individuals and the hospital while implementing job rotation periodically and fairly. And when a medical organization attempts to enhance nurses' commitment to the organization, the findings suggest that reduction of role ambiguity in role stress has the best effect on enhancing nurses' organizational commitment. The ultimate goal is to increase nurses' job satisfaction and encourage them to stay in their career. This would avoid the vicious circle of high turnover, which is wasteful of the organization's valuable human resources. PMID:19138390

Effects of job rotation and role stress among nurses on job satisfaction and organizational commitment.

PubMed

Ho, Wen-Hsien; Chang, Ching Sheng; Shih, Ying-Ling; Liang, Rong-Da

2009-01-12

The motivation for this study was to investigate how role stress among nurses could affect their job satisfaction and organizational commitment, and whether the job rotation system might encourage nurses to understand, relate to and share the vision of the organization, consequently increasing their job satisfaction and stimulating them to willingly remain in their jobs and commit themselves to the organization. Despite the fact that there have been plenty of studies on job satisfaction, none was specifically addressed to integrate the relational model of job rotation, role stress, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment among nurses. With top managerial hospital administration's consent, questionnaires were only distributed to those nurses who had had job rotation experience. 650 copies of the questionnaire in two large and influential hospitals in southern Taiwan were distributed, among which 532 valid copies were retrieved with a response rate of 81.8%. Finally, the SPSS 11.0 and LISREL 8.54 (Linear Structural Relationship Model) statistical software packages were used for data analysis and processing. According to the nurses' views, the findings are as follows: (1) job rotation among nurses could have an effect on their job satisfaction; (2) job rotation could have an effect on organizational commitment; (3) job satisfaction could have a positive effect on organizational commitment; (4) role stress among nurses could have a negative effect on their job satisfaction; and (5) role stress could have a negative effect on their organizational commitment. As a practical and excellent strategy for manpower utilization, a hospital could promote the benefits of job rotation to both individuals and the hospital while implementing job rotation periodically and fairly. And when a medical organization attempts to enhance nurses' commitment to the organization, the findings suggest that reduction of role ambiguity in role stress has the best effect on enhancing nurses' organizational commitment. The ultimate goal is to increase nurses' job satisfaction and encourage them to stay in their career. This would avoid the vicious circle of high turnover, which is wasteful of the organization's valuable human resources.

77 FR 7517 - Definitions and Abbreviations

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-02-13

... Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. Chapter 35). E-Government Act Compliance Rural Development is committed to complying with the E-Government Act, to promote the use of the Internet and other information... following methods: Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov . Follow the instructions for...

76 FR 47055 - Emergency Restoration Plan (ERP)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-08-04

... the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. chapter 35). E-Government Act Compliance The Rural Utilities Service is committed to the E-Government Act, which requires government agencies in general to..., telephone (202) 720-1900 or e-mail to [email protected] . SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Executive Order...

Detecting Salmonella Enteritidis in Laying Hens and Eggs after Experimental Infection at Different Oral Dose Levels

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The attribution of human illness to eggs contaminated with Salmonella Enteritidis has led to substantial commitments of resources (by both government and industry) to risk reduction and testing programs in egg-laying flocks. Cost-effective application of testing requires a thorough understanding of ...

Salmonella Enteritidis deposition in eggs after experimental infection of laying hens with different oral doses

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The continuing attribution of human Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) infections to internally contaminated eggs has necessitated the commitment of substantial public and private resources to SE testing and control programs in commercial laying flocks. Cost-effective risk reduction requires a detailed and...

Fructan reduction by downregulation of 1-SST in guayule

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The natural rubber producing plant Parthenium argentatum (guayule) stores carbohydrates mainly in the form of fructans, which are synthesized and stored in the same tissues at the same time as the rubber polymer. The first committed step to fructan synthesis is catalyzed by sucrose:sucrose-1-fructos...

76 FR 22896 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Submission for OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-04-25

... comments to EEOC, you may submit comments and attachments electronically at http://www.regulations.gov... being committed and to produce reports from the data. The EEOC issued regulations, Title 29, Chapter XIV... accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC or Commission...

78 FR 66746 - Medical Device User Fee and Modernization Act; Notice to Public of Web Site Location of Fiscal...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-11-06

...] Medical Device User Fee and Modernization Act; Notice to Public of Web Site Location of Fiscal Year 2014... and Drug Administration (FDA or the Agency) is announcing the Web site location where the Agency will... documents, FDA has committed to updating its Web site in a timely manner to reflect the Agency's review of...

C-STARS. School Based Interprofessional Case Management: An Interagency Program for At-Risk Students and Their Families.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smith, Albert, Jr.; Oaks, Merrill

The documents in this collection provide information about the Center for the Study and Teaching of At-Risk Students (C-STARS), a center committed to meeting the challenge of providing integrated services for at-risk youth and their families. Because C-STARS is housed in a university setting, it has the opportunity to promote interprofessional and…

Cognitive and Non-cognitive Predictors of Career Intentions within Cyber Jobs

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-04-01

in Anaheim, California, April 14-16, 2016. 15. SUBJECT TERMS Cyber, career intentions, retention , cognitive ability, job fit, normative commitment...Predictors of Cyber Job Career Intentions 1 The views, opinions, and findings contained in this article are solely those of the authors and should...other documentation. Cognitive and Non-cognitive Predictors of Career Intentions within Cyber Jobs Kristophor Canali U. S. Army

The Effect of Requiring Private Employers to Extend Health Benefit Eligibility to Same-Sex Partners of Employees: Evidence from California

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Buchmueller, Thomas C.; Carpenter, Christopher S.

2012-01-01

Health disparities related to sexual orientation are well documented and may be due to unequal access to a partner's employer-sponsored insurance (ESI). We provide the literature's first evaluation of legislation enacted by California in 2005 that required private employers within the state to treat employees in committed same-sex relationships in…

The Children's Literature Assembly: 40 Years of Passionate Commitment to Children and Their Books

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McClure, Amy

2015-01-01

On the 40th anniversary of the Children's Literature Assembly (CLA), it seemed appropriate to document and reflect on where the assembly has been, and to discover how the organization that is so valued has evolved. Knowing the history is helpful for framing the future, not only of the organization but also of the field of children's literature. It…

Broadway High School: Moving Ahead in Math. Onward to Excellence II: Committing to CHANGE with OTE II.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Northwest Regional Educational Lab., Portland, OR. School Improvement Program.

This document describes the school reform movement at Broadway High School in rural Virginia which has led to great success in mathematics achievement as proven by the Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL) tests. The Onward to Excellence II model provided a way for the faculty to focus on math, especially Algebra I, and to involve the entire school…

Transition in Alabama: A Profile of Commitment. Proceedings of the Annual Statewide Conference on Transition (1st, Auburn, Alabama, January 1992).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Browning, Philip, Ed.

This proceedings document provides the texts of 13 presentations given at a 2-day conference in 1991 which focused on policies, materials, programs, and activities being implemented in Alabama to foster the successful transition of youth with disabilities to adult life. Two papers address the national scene: "Transition: Old Wine in New…

Transition III in Alabama: A Profile of Commitment. Proceedings of the Annual Statewide Conference on Transition (3rd, Auburn, Alabama, January 1994).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Browning, Philip, Ed.

This proceedings document provides the texts of 18 presentations given at a 3-day conference in 1993 which focused on policies, materials, programs, and activities being implemented in Alabama to foster the successful transition of youth with disabilities to adult life. First, four individuals with learning disabilities (Travis Moore, Kim…

Transition II in Alabama: A Profile of Commitment. Proceedings of the Annual Statewide Conference on Transition( (2nd, Auburn, Alabama, January 1993).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Browning, Philip, Ed.

This proceedings document provides the texts of 12 presentations given at a 2-day conference in 1992 which focused on policies, materials, programs, and activities being implemented in Alabama to foster the successful transition of youth with disabilities to adult life. Two papers address the national scene: "Transition Services Requirement:…

"67 Suenos": Inspiring a Movement for Undocumented Voices to Be Heard

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Arriaga, Belinda Hernandez

2012-01-01

This essay documents the work of 67 Suenos, a youth-led collective based in Oakland, California. The group is committed to bringing to light the stories of the 67 percent of undocumented youth and young adults who would not qualify for the DREAM Act and who are in many ways left out of the dominant narrative around immigration reform. The author…

Transition IV in Alabama: A Profile of Commitment. Proceedings of the Annual Statewide Conference on Transition (4th, Auburn, Alabama, January 1995).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Browning, Philip, Ed.

This proceedings document provides the texts of 23 presentations given at a conference in 1994 which focused on policies, materials, programs, and activities being implemented in Alabama to foster the successful transition of youth with disabilities to adult life. An initial paper compares the definition of transition developed by Andrew Halpern…

Clear Purpose...Complete Commitment. A Long-Range Program To Provide Louisianians with Library and Information Services Adequate to Their Needs 1996-2000.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jaques, Thomas F.

This document provides the 5-year (1996-2000) library plan for public libraries in Louisiana. It identifies specific inadequacies in public library services, resources, facilities, and personnel. It identifies the people who are to be served, and reveals the geographical, sociological, economic, and educational barriers to the expanded use of…

Canputer Science and Technology: Introduction to Software Packages

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-04-01

Table 5 Sources of Software Packages.20 Table 6 Reference Services Matrix . 33 Table 7 Reference Matrix.40 LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1 Document...consideration should be given to the acquisition of appropriate software packages to replace or upgrade existing services and to provide services not...Consequently, there are many companies that produce only software packages, and are committed to providing training, service , and support. These vendors

Education for Global Survival: Reflections Based on Some Swedish Experiences and Examples. Peace Education Miniprints, No. 33.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thelin, Bengt

This document which reviews peace education as the subject was presented in Sweden in the later 1980s. The paper argues for a stronger commitment to peace education and approaching the subject from the perspectives of the unique, the absurd, and the relevant. The contemporary era is unique in that humanity now possesses the means to reify…

Correctional Education: A Way To Stay Out. Commendations [and] Recommendations for Illinois with Support Statements [and] Success Stories.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hackett, Bessie, Comp.

This document addresses correctional education, its effect on recidivism, and the cost of crime in the state of Illinois. COmmendations about current efforts, as well as recommendations for fiscal year 1991 are listed. Commendations are made: (1) for the work of the task force on released inmates; (2) to the competent and committed correctional…

The use of rites of passage in strengthening the psychosocial wellbeing of orphaned children in Botswana.

PubMed

Thamuku, Masego; Daniel, Marguerite

2012-10-01

Children who have been bereaved in the context of AIDS may experience many challenges to their psychosocial wellbeing. Programmes to help orphaned children are usually anchored in child rights. As the individual focus of rights-based approaches is inept in African collectivist culture, NGOs tend to make use of group approaches in psychosocial support programmes. One orphan-strengthening programme in Botswana, called the Ark for Children, uses rites of passage and rites of affirmation as part of a therapeutic retreat. This study explored how rites of passage and rites of affirmation contribute to psychosocial strengthening of orphaned children in Botswana. Ten orphaned children were involved in five rounds of data collection during a 16-day therapeutic retreat; and eight social workers answered questions on the effectiveness of the therapy. A supplementary document analysis was also completed, which included retreat reports since 2001 and correspondence from community-based support workers and graduates of the programme. Participants reported that the rites used during the retreat helped them to commit to therapeutic transformation. During a retreat, all the participants witness and support each individual going through each rite - a process reported to foster and strengthen group formation. It was documented that the symbols used as part of the themed rites of affirmation are used by participants for years afterwards as reminders of their transformation and commitment to the group. We conclude that rites of passage can provide a powerful tool to help children commit to therapeutic transformation, build the supportive group, and enable the community to recognise and affirm that the children return as changed individuals and members of the group.

Integrating a suicide prevention program into the primary health care network: a field trial study in Iran.

PubMed

Malakouti, Seyed Kazem; Nojomi, Marzieh; Poshtmashadi, Marjan; Hakim Shooshtari, Mitra; Mansouri Moghadam, Fariba; Rahimi-Movaghar, Afarin; Afghah, Susan; Bolhari, Jafar; Bazargan-Hejazi, Shahrzad

2015-01-01

To describe and evaluate the feasibility of integrating a suicide prevention program with Primary Health Care services and evaluate if such system can improve screening and identification of depressive disorder, reduce number of suicide attempters, and lower rate of suicide completion. This was a quasi-experimental trial in which one community was exposed to the intervention versus the control community with no such exposure. The study sites were two counties in Western Iran. The intervention protocol called for primary care and suicide prevention collaboration at different levels of care. The outcome variables were the number of suicides committed, the number of documented suicide attempts, and the number of identified depressed cases. We identified a higher prevalence of depressive disorders in the intervention site versus the control site (χ (2) = 14.8, P < 0.001). We also found a reduction in the rate of suicide completion in the intervention region compared to the control, but a higher prevalence of suicide attempts in both the intervention and the control sites. Integrating a suicide prevention program with the Primary Health Care network enhanced depression and suicide surveillance capacity and subsequently reduced the number of suicides, especially in rural areas.

Meeting the Institute of Medicine’s 2030 US Life Expectancy Target

PubMed Central

Kindig, David; Nobles, Jenna; Zidan, Moheb

2018-01-01

Objectives To quantify the improvement in US life expectancy required to reach parity with high-resource nations by 2030, to document historical precedent of this rate, and to discuss the plausibility of achieving this rate in the United States. Methods We performed a demographic analysis of secondary data in 5-year periods from 1985 to 2015. Results To achieve the United Nations projected mortality estimates for Western Europe in 2030, the US life expectancy must grow at 0.32% a year between 2016 and 2030. This rate has precedent, even in low-mortality populations. Over 204 country-periods examined, nearly half exhibited life-expectancy growth greater than 0.32%. Of the 51 US states observed, 8.2% of state-periods demonstrated life-expectancy growth that exceeded the 0.32% target. Conclusions Achieving necessary growth in life expectancy over the next 15 years despite historical precedent will be challenging. Much all-cause mortality is structured decades earlier and, at present, older-age mortality reductions in the United States are decelerating. Addressing mortality decline at all ages will require enhanced political will and a strong commitment to equity improvement in the US population. PMID:29161064

Country actions to meet UN commitments on non-communicable diseases: a stepwise approach.

PubMed

Bonita, Ruth; Magnusson, Roger; Bovet, Pascal; Zhao, Dong; Malta, Deborah C; Geneau, Robert; Suh, Il; Thankappan, Kavumpurathu Raman; McKee, Martin; Hospedales, James; de Courten, Maximilian; Capewell, Simon; Beaglehole, Robert

2013-02-16

Strong leadership from heads of state is needed to meet national commitments to the UN political declaration on non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and to achieve the goal of a 25% reduction in premature NCD mortality by 2025 (the 25 by 25 goal). A simple, phased, national response to the political declaration is suggested, with three key steps: planning, implementation, and accountability. Planning entails mobilisation of a multisectoral response to develop and support the national action plan, and to build human, financial, and regulatory capacity for change. Implementation of a few priority and feasible cost-effective interventions for the prevention and treatment of NCDs will achieve the 25 by 25 goal and will need only few additional financial resources. Accountability incorporates three dimensions: monitoring of progress, reviewing of progress, and appropriate responses to accelerate progress. A national NCD commission or equivalent, which is independent of government, is needed to ensure that all relevant stakeholders are held accountable for the UN commitments to NCDs. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Radon Reduction Techniques in Schools: Interim Technical Guidance.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC.

This technical document is intended to assist school facilities maintenance personnel in the selection, design, and operation of radon reduction systems in schools. The guidance contained in this document is based largely on research conducted in 1987 and 1988 in schools located in Maryland and Virginia. Researchers from the United States…

Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy during Methadone Dose Reduction: Rationale, Treatment Description, and a Case Report

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stotts, Angela L.; Masuda, Akihiko; Wilson, Kelly

2009-01-01

Many clients who undergo methadone maintenance (MM) treatment for heroin and other opiate dependence prefer abstinence from methadone. Attempts at methadone detoxification are often unsuccessful, however, due to distressing physical as well as psychological symptoms. Outcomes from an MM client who voluntarily participated in an Acceptance and…

The Power of Proverbs: Dissonance Reduction through Common Sayings

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stalder, Daniel R.

2010-01-01

After reading a detailed account of a serious mistake in which a similar-age other went against personal values or a prior commitment, undergraduates rated their feelings of dissonance (regret, hypocrisy, and stupidity) had they been in the actor's place. Relative to a control condition, reading relevant proverbs such as "everybody makes mistakes"…

40 CFR 52.2299 - Original identification of plan section.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

...), Appendix AG, Emission Reduction Commitments for Transportation Control Measures in Post-1982 SIP Areas...; as adopted by the Texas Air Control Board on October 14, 1988. (C) The following portions of the Post... Transportation Control Measures in Post-1982 SIP Areas, as adopted by the Texas Air Control Board on December 18...

40 CFR 52.2299 - Original identification of plan section.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

...), Appendix AG, Emission Reduction Commitments for Transportation Control Measures in Post-1982 SIP Areas...; as adopted by the Texas Air Control Board on October 14, 1988. (C) The following portions of the Post... Transportation Control Measures in Post-1982 SIP Areas, as adopted by the Texas Air Control Board on December 18...

Do HRD Investment Strategies Pay? Exploring the Relationship between Lifelong Learning and Psychological Contracts.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Martin, Graeme; Pate, Judy; McGoldrick, Jim

1999-01-01

A four-year study of a Scottish manufacturer's employee lifelong learning program discovered a positive relationship between the program and employee perceptions of careers, fairness, and the long-term "psychological contract." Due to reduction in the employer's commitment to job security, employees were beginning to view the program as…

An obesity/cardiometabolic risk reduction disease management program: a population-based approach.

PubMed

Villagra, Victor G

2009-04-01

Obesity is a critical health concern that has captured the attention of public and private healthcare payers who are interested in controlling costs and mitigating the long-term economic consequences of the obesity epidemic. Population-based approaches to obesity management have been proposed that take advantage of a chronic care model (CCM), including patient self-care, the use of community-based resources, and the realization of care continuity through ongoing communications with patients, information technology, and public policy changes. Payer-sponsored disease management programs represent an important conduit to delivering population-based care founded on similar CCM concepts. Disease management is founded on population-based disease identification, evidence-based care protocols, and collaborative practices between clinicians. While substantial clinician training, technology infrastructure commitments, and financial support at the payer level will be needed for the success of disease management programs in obesity and cardiometabolic risk reduction, these barriers can be overcome with the proper commitment. Disease management programs represent an important tool to combat the growing societal risks of overweight and obesity.

An Official American Thoracic Society/European Respiratory Society Policy Statement: Enhancing Implementation, Use, and Delivery of Pulmonary Rehabilitation.

PubMed

Rochester, Carolyn L; Vogiatzis, Ioannis; Holland, Anne E; Lareau, Suzanne C; Marciniuk, Darcy D; Puhan, Milo A; Spruit, Martijn A; Masefield, Sarah; Casaburi, Richard; Clini, Enrico M; Crouch, Rebecca; Garcia-Aymerich, Judith; Garvey, Chris; Goldstein, Roger S; Hill, Kylie; Morgan, Michael; Nici, Linda; Pitta, Fabio; Ries, Andrew L; Singh, Sally J; Troosters, Thierry; Wijkstra, Peter J; Yawn, Barbara P; ZuWallack, Richard L

2015-12-01

Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) has demonstrated physiological, symptom-reducing, psychosocial, and health economic benefits for patients with chronic respiratory diseases, yet it is underutilized worldwide. Insufficient funding, resources, and reimbursement; lack of healthcare professional, payer, and patient awareness and knowledge; and additional patient-related barriers all contribute to the gap between the knowledge of the science and benefits of PR and the actual delivery of PR services to suitable patients. The objectives of this document are to enhance implementation, use, and delivery of pulmonary rehabilitation to suitable individuals worldwide. Members of the American Thoracic Society (ATS) Pulmonary Rehabilitation Assembly and the European Respiratory Society (ERS) Rehabilitation and Chronic Care Group established a Task Force and writing committee to develop a policy statement on PR. The document was modified based on feedback from expert peer reviewers. After cycles of review and revisions, the statement was reviewed and formally approved by the Board of Directors of the ATS and the Science Council and Executive Committee of the ERS. This document articulates policy recommendations for advancing healthcare professional, payer, and patient awareness and knowledge of PR, increasing patient access to PR, and ensuring quality of PR programs. It also recommends areas of future research to establish evidence to support the development of an updated funding and reimbursement policy regarding PR. The ATS and ERS commit to undertake actions that will improve access to and delivery of PR services for suitable patients. They call on their members and other health professional societies, payers, patients, and patient advocacy groups to join in this commitment.

Breaking and re-entering: British American Tobacco in China 1979–2000

PubMed Central

Lee, K; Gilmore, A; Collin, J

2004-01-01

Objectives: To analyse the strategy used by British American Tobacco (BAT) to re-enter the Chinese market from 1979 to 2000 after historically dominating the market before the 1950s. Design: Analysis of tobacco industry document files to date available only on-site at the Guildford Depository operated by BAT. An additional search of recent documents related to BAT, placed in the Minnesota Depository, was also carried out. Results: BAT has been committed to regaining its historically dominant position in China since the country reopened to foreign companies in 1979. Initially, BAT remained cautious relative to competitors in seeking joint ventures, finding market access hindered by bureaucratic complexity, restrictions on foreign investment and imports quotas, and later an advertising ban. Instead, the documents suggest BAT strongly relied on illegal imports to expand market presence of State Express 555 and other key brands. It was only when risks to contraband sales increased that the company made greater efforts to establish a legal presence in the country. Attempts to stress the long history of BAT in China and a proclaimed commitment to corporate social responsibility have been used to facilitate later negotiations. Conclusion: China has remained relatively closed to transnational tobacco companies (TTCs) during its transition to a market economy, maintaining a firm grip over foreign investment and imports. Nonetheless, BAT has circumvented such restrictions through illegal imports and exploitation of inconsistencies in the local enforcement of advertising bans. Governments need to understand and address the full range of market entry tactics by TTCs in order to ensure effective tobacco control. PMID:15564226

Nudging Guideline-Concordant Antibiotic Prescribing

PubMed Central

Meeker, Daniella; Knight, Tara K.; Friedberg, Mark W.; Linder, Jeffrey A.; Goldstein, Noah J.; Fox, Craig R.; Rothfeld, Alan; Diaz, Guillermo; Doctor, Jason N.

2015-01-01

IMPORTANCE “Nudges” that influence decision making through subtle cognitive mechanisms have been shown to be highly effective in a wide range of applications, but there have been few experiments to improve clinical practice. OBJECTIVE To investigate the use of a behavioral “nudge” based on the principle of public commitment in encouraging the judicious use of antibiotics for acute respiratory infections (ARIs). DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS Randomized clinical trial in 5 outpatient primary care clinics. A total of 954 adults had ARI visits during the study timeframe: 449 patients were treated by clinicians randomized to the posted commitment letter (335 in the baseline period, 114 in the intervention period); 505 patients were treated by clinicians randomized to standard practice control (384 baseline, 121 intervention). INTERVENTIONS The intervention consisted of displaying poster-sized commitment letters in examination rooms for 12 weeks. These letters, featuring clinician photographs and signatures, stated their commitment to avoid inappropriate antibiotic prescribing for ARIs. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Antibiotic prescribing rates for antibiotic-inappropriate ARI diagnoses in baseline and intervention periods, adjusted for patient age, sex, and insurance status. RESULTS Baseline rates were 43.5% and 42.8% for control and poster, respectively. During the intervention period, inappropriate prescribing rates increased to 52.7% for controls but decreased to 33.7% in the posted commitment letter condition. Controlling for baseline prescribing rates, we found that the posted commitment letter resulted in a 19.7 absolute percentage reduction in inappropriate antibiotic prescribing rate relative to control (P = .02). There was no evidence of diagnostic coding shift, and rates of appropriate antibiotic prescriptions did not diminish over time. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Displaying poster-sized commitment letters in examination rooms decreased inappropriate antibiotic prescribing for ARIs. The effect of this simple, low-cost intervention is comparable in magnitude to costlier, more intensive quality-improvement efforts. TRIAL REGISTRATION clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT01767064 PMID:24474434

Agent oriented programming: An overview of the framework and summary of recent research

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shoham, Yoav

1993-01-01

This is a short overview of the agent-oriented programming (AOP) framework. AOP can be viewed as an specialization of object-oriented programming. The state of an agent consists of components called beliefs, choices, capabilities, commitments, and possibly others; for this reason the state of an agent is called its mental state. The mental state of agents is captured formally in an extension of standard epistemic logics: beside temporalizing the knowledge and belief operators, AOP introduces operators for commitment, choice and capability. Agents are controlled by agent programs, which include primitives for communicating with other agents. In the spirit of speech-act theory, each communication primitive is of a certain type: informing, requesting, offering, etc. This document describes these features in more detail and summarizes recent results and ongoing AOP-related work.

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

NONE

The Illinois Solid Waste Management Act, enacted in September 1986, established the State`s commitment to adress solid waste handling, based on a solid waste management hierarchy as folloew: (1) volume reduction at the source; (2) recycling and reuse; (3) combustion with energy recovery; (4) combustion for volume reduction; and (5) disposal in landfill facilities. Under this Act, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) is required to publish an annual report `regarding the projected disposal capacity available for solid waste in sanitary landfills`. The information presented in this report reflects the reporting period January 1, 1994 - Decenber 31, 1994.

The Healthy Wight Commitment Foundation pledge: calories purchased by U.S. households with children, 2000-2012.

PubMed

Ng, Shu Wen; Popkin, Barry M

2014-10-01

An independent evaluation of the Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation (HWCF) marketplace pledge found that the participating companies met and exceeded their interim 2012 sales reduction pledge. This follow-up study conducted in 2013 used purchase data from 2000 to 2012 among U.S. households with children and compared trends in calorie purchases of HWCF, non-HWCF name brands, and private label (PL) products in the pre-pledge period (2000-2007) and the post-pledge period (2008-2012); controlled for potential effects of concurrent changes in demographic and economic factors, including the Great Recession and food prices; and assessed whether the HWCF marketplace pledge was associated with reductions in consumer packaged goods (CPG) calorie purchases by households with children. There has been a significant per capita decline in average daily CPG caloric purchases between 2000 and 2012 among households with children from all brand categories. Based on pre-pledge trends, declines in CPG caloric purchases were already occurring. However, post-pledge reductions in calories purchased from HWCF brands were less than expected, and reductions in calories purchased from non-HWCF name brands and PLs were greater than expected after economic, sociodemographic, and secular factors were accounted for. If the 16 HWCF companies had been able to maintain their pre-pledge trajectory, there should have been an additional 42 kcal/capita/day reduction in calories purchased from HWCF products in 2012 among households with children. A lack of change in total CPG calories purchased between 2011 and 2012 calls into question the sustainability of the decline and a need for continued monitoring. Copyright © 2014 American Journal of Preventive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

CTC Sentinel. Volume 10, Issue 3

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-03-01

Mining Matthew C . DuPée MARCH 2017 C TC SENTINEL 1 Among the most recent evolutions of jihadi terrorist tactics in the West has been...arrest him. Soofi and Simpson committed the attack with assistance from Adbul Malik Abdul Kareem. Source: court documents. c They are Avin Brown (2014...State’s Virtual Entrepreneurs By Seamus Hughes and Alexander Meleagrou-Hitchens 2 C TC SENTINEL MARCH 2017 jihadi propaganda. Together

John Stuart Mill on the liberty of the mentally ill: a historical note.

PubMed

Monahan, J

1977-12-01

The author discusses the quote from Mill's On Liberty that is often cited by libertarians in opposition to involuntary commitment of the mentally ill. This quote has been taken out of context; other statements in the document indicate that Mill excluded from his libertarian credo those "without the ordinary amount of understanding," i.e., those people who would now be considered mentally ill.

For Colored Kids Who Committed Suicide, Our Outrage Isn't Enough: Queer Youth of Color, Bullying, and the Discursive Limits of Identity and Safety

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pritchard , Eric Darnell

2013-01-01

In recent years anti-lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) bullying has been a pervasive discussion in popular and scholarly discourse. While such a discussion has documented the negative impact of bullying on the physical, psychological, social, and emotional lives of young people, it has not had a critical and sustained analysis…

Strategic Assurance and Signaling in the Baltics

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-04-06

Director of Operations then EWO evaluator and Executive Officer at the group level. After serving as the RC-135 Functional Manager at Headquarters...documents lay a foundation from which an assurance campaign can be developed . Today’s deterrence and assurance is moving away from being nuclear... countries in the Balkans and Eastern Europe toward European and Euro-Atlantic integration…Our Article 58 commitment to the collective defense of all NATO

L-325 Sagebrush Habitat Mitigation Project: FY2008 Compensation Area Monitoring Report

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

Durham, Robin E.; Sackschewsky, Michael R.

2008-09-30

This document provides a review and status of activities conducted in support of the Fluor Daniel Hanford Company (Fluor) Mitigation Action Plan (MAP) for Project L-325, Electrical Utility Upgrades. It includes time-zero monitoring results for planting activities conducted in January 2008, annual survival monitoring for all planting years (2007 and 2008), and recommendations for the successful completion of DOE habitat mitigation commitments for this project.

Safety management vs. picking leaves.

PubMed

Wright, D

1991-09-01

A safety program will generally have as its base a comprehensive written document made available for everyone in the organization. The document should indicate a positive commitment to safety by management. It should not be a "how to" guide, but rather a broad outline to establish responsibilities, goals, and methods. The safety manager is appointed in writing and answers to the highest level of management. As opposed to a "doer," the safety manager acts as a director and administrator of the safety program. This is accomplished through the advisory capacity of the safety program for solicited and unsolicited problems. The focus of the safety manager is on the system and how it contributes to safety problems, rather than individual problems. Management has the ultimate responsibility for safety. Their efforts should reflect a proactive attitude to correct problems in the system. In order to identify areas of interest, technically competent input from the safety manager should be required. The support of the safety program by top management determines the success of the program. Without a clear and firm commitment by the organization, safety will receive no more than lip service from the employees. The benefits of a proactive approach will be realized in the organization's ability to manage safety issues, rather than reacting to them.

IGES, a key interface specification for CAD/CAM systems integration

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, B. M.; Wellington, J.

1984-01-01

The Initial Graphics Exchange Specification (IGES) program has focused the efforts of 52 companies on the development and documentation of a means of graphics data base exchange among present day CAD/CAM systems. The project's brief history has seen the evolution of the Specification into preliminary industrial usage marked by public demonstrations of vendor capability, mandatory requests in procurement actions, and a formalization into an American National Standard in September 1981. Recent events have demonstrated intersystem data exchange among seven vendor systems with a total of 30 vendors committing to offer IGES capability. A full range of documentation supports the IGES project and the recently approved IGES Version 2.0 of the Specification.

A sociodrama: an innovative program engaging college students to learn and self-reflect about alcohol use.

PubMed

Haleem, Diane M; Winters, Justin

2011-08-01

A sociodrama addressing college drinking.   This article reports on the development, production, and evaluation of an innovative sociodrama addressing college drinking mental health professionals caring for students who drink at levels that cause negative consequences can use techniques addressed in the sociodrama to help students self-reflect on their alcohol use. The goal is to help students make healthy choices to decrease the negative consequences as a result of drinking. A script for the sociodrama was developed and five students acted out the sociodrama. A facilitator engaged the audience of college students, at scripted pauses, during the production to reflect on the scenes presented. The purpose of the sociodrama is to foster a discussion, to aid in student understanding concerning college drinking, to have students consider and commit to use harm reduction techniques, to access resources, and to correct misperceptions about drinking. The sociodrama format can help address communication challenges, problem solving, and self-awareness. Pre- and post-surveys were administered to test commitment to use harm reduction techniques, assess the perception of a student's own drinking pattern to the perception of their fellow student colleague drinking, assess the student use of resources, and assess the effectiveness of the sociodrama as a means of learning. This research was Institutional Review Board approved. Over 41% of students reported not consuming alcohol the last time they partied or socialized yet reported only 3.8% of their students colleagues did not consume alcohol. Most students (94%) reported that drinking five or more drinks would place them at risk as opposed to estimating that the same amount would put fewer students at risk (75%). Students significantly increased their commitment to use harm reduction techniques. A sociodrama is an effective method of involving students in discussions about college drinking and engaging them in conversation and self-reflection. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

"It's what we're here for:" nurses caring for military personnel during the Persian Gulf Wars.

PubMed

Rushton, Patricia; Scott, Jared E; Callister, Lynn Clark

2008-01-01

Military nursing service during wartime represents significant contributions to a unique type of health care. The purposes of this study were to: (1) generate themes that elucidate combat nursing experiences, (2) honor nurses who served by sharing their stories, and (3) permanently archive accounts of nursing personnel who served during the Persian Gulf Wars during the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Eleven military nurses who provided health care to American troops in the Persian Gulf participated in a historical study as part of the ongoing Nurses at War oral history project documenting the experiences of nurses during times of armed conflict. The overriding theme, "It's what we're here for," demonstrates the commitment of nurses: a commitment to care and to sacrifice. Other themes drawn from the study included lessons learned from their wartime nursing experiences, sacrifices made, and chronicles of caring. During armed conflict in the Persian Gulf Wars, military nurses' personal stories demonstrated the importance of being engaged in making meaningful professional and historical contributions. These nurses displayed professional commitment and hardiness in the face of difficult life circumstances, saying, "We did what we had to do."

[Not enough help for themselves--the risk of physicians to commit suicide].

PubMed

Püschel, Klaus; Schalinski, Sarah

2006-01-01

Physicians seem unwilling to deal with their own suicidal problems professionally. Suicide is a repressed topic. According to international studies, medical students and physicians are clearly over-represented among suicide victims. Committing suicide stands in sharp contrast to the positive image physicians enjoy as competent, strong helpers transmitting positive energy. Various studies and meta-analyses show that physicians use knowledge specific to their profession and are therefore "more successful" than the general population in committing suicide. Moreover, the data reveal a number of risk factors specifically correlating with medical practice. This is confirmed by an increased number of suicides during medical training and professional life in comparison with the general population. Gender-specific analyses show an even higher suicide risk for female physicians. In this context it cannot be excluded that out of "professional respect" cardiovascular causes of death are sometimes falsely documented in death certificates instead of suicide. Despite their special education, physicians are not very good at diagnosing their own emotional disorders and asking colleagues for adequate professional help. They rather tend to camouflage their own psychological problems also because they are afraid of occupational and personal discrimination.

Overview of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Hazardous Air Pollutant Early Reduction Program.

PubMed

Laznow, J; Daniel, J

1992-01-01

Under provision of the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 Title III, the EPA has proposed a regulation (Early Reduction Program) to allow a six-year compliance extension from Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT) standards for sources that voluntarily reduce emissions of Hazardous Air Pollutants (HAPs) by 90 percent or more (95 percent or more for particulates) from a base year of 1987 or later. The emission reduction must be made before the applicable MACT standard is proposed for the source category or be subject to an enforceable commitment to achieve the reduction by January 1, 1994 for sources subject to MACT standards prior to 1994. The primary purpose of this program is to encourage reduction of HAPs emissions sooner than otherwise required. Industry would be allowed additional time in evaluating emission reduction options and developing more cost-effective compliance strategies, although, under strict guidelines to ensure actual, significant and verifiable emission reductions occur.

76 FR 39416 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Documentation Requirements for Articles Entered Under...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-07-06

... Activities: Documentation Requirements for Articles Entered Under Various Special Tariff Treatment Provisions... accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act: Documentation Requirements for Articles Entered Under Various... techniques or other forms of information. Title: Documentation Requirements for Articles Entered Under...

Guidance on the State Fiscal Stabilization Fund Program

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

US Department of Education, 2009

2009-01-01

The State Fiscal Stabilization Fund Program is a new, one-time appropriation of approximately $48.6 billion that the U.S. Department of Education will award to Governors to help stabilize State and local budgets in order to minimize and avoid reductions in education and other essential services, in exchange for a State's commitment to advance …

75 FR 44734 - Approval and Promulgation of Implementation Plans and Designation of Areas for Air Quality...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-07-29

... from the State of Nevada containing a commitment to reinstate the existing vapor pressure limit in the...''), which establishes a low Reid vapor pressure (RVP) specification for gasoline sold during the late fall... the vapor pressure requirement and associated CO emissions reductions, and are severable from the rest...

Team approach to care in labor and delivery.

PubMed

Mann, Susan; Pratt, Stephen D

2008-12-01

Changing to a teamwork culture in labor and delivery requires a real commitment. The skills involved can be taught to all healthcare providers. The benefits of a teamwork culture may include improved patient outcomes, less medical errors, and improved patient and staff satisfaction. Malpractice claim reduction may possibly occur through these improved outcomes and better communication with our patients.

40 CFR 63.76 - Review of base year emissions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 9 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Review of base year emissions. 63.76... Governing Compliance Extensions for Early Reductions of Hazardous Air Pollutants § 63.76 Review of base year... approve or disapprove base year emission data submitted in an enforceable commitment under § 63.75 or in a...

40 CFR 63.76 - Review of base year emissions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 10 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Review of base year emissions. 63.76... Governing Compliance Extensions for Early Reductions of Hazardous Air Pollutants § 63.76 Review of base year... approve or disapprove base year emission data submitted in an enforceable commitment under § 63.75 or in a...

40 CFR 63.76 - Review of base year emissions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 10 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Review of base year emissions. 63.76... Governing Compliance Extensions for Early Reductions of Hazardous Air Pollutants § 63.76 Review of base year... approve or disapprove base year emission data submitted in an enforceable commitment under § 63.75 or in a...

40 CFR 63.76 - Review of base year emissions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 9 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Review of base year emissions. 63.76... Governing Compliance Extensions for Early Reductions of Hazardous Air Pollutants § 63.76 Review of base year... approve or disapprove base year emission data submitted in an enforceable commitment under § 63.75 or in a...

Salt reduction in Australia: from advocacy to action

PubMed Central

Trieu, Kathy; Dunford, Elizabeth; Nowson, Caryl; Jolly, Kellie-Ann; Greenland, Rohan; Reimers, Jenny; Bolam, Bruce

2015-01-01

Background As part of its endorsement of the World Health Organization’s Global Action Plan to prevent non-communicable diseases, the Federal Government of Australia has committed to a 30% reduction in average population salt intake by 2025. Currently, mean daily salt intake levels are 8-9 g, varying by sex, region and population group. A number of salt reduction initiatives have been established over the last decade, but key elements for a co-ordinated population-level strategy are still missing. The objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of existing population-level salt reduction activities in Australia and identify opportunities for further action. Methods A review of the published literature and stakeholder activities was undertaken to identify and document current activities. The activities were then assessed against a pre-defined framework for salt reduction strategies. Results A range of initiatives were identified from the review. The Australian Division of World Action on Salt and Health (AWASH) was established in 2005 and in 2007 launched its Drop the Salt! Campaign. This united non-governmental organisations (NGOs), health and medical and food industry organisations in a co-ordinated advocacy effort to encourage government to develop a national strategy to reduce salt. Subsequently, in 2010 the Federal Government launched its Food and Health Dialogue (FHD) with a remit to improve the health of the food supply in Australia through voluntary partnerships with food industry, government and non-government public health organisations. The focus of the FHD to date has been on voluntary reformulation of foods, primarily through salt reduction targets. More recently, in December 2014, the government’s Health Star Rating system was launched. This front of pack labelling scheme uses stars to highlight the nutritional profile of packaged foods. Both government initiatives have clear targets or criteria for industry to meet, however, both are voluntary and the extent of industry uptake is not yet clear. There is also no parallel public awareness campaign to try and influence consumer behaviour relating to salt and no agreed mechanism for monitoring national changes in salt intake. The Victorian Health Promotion Foundation (VicHealth) has recently instigated a State-level partnership to advance action and will launch its strategy in 2015. Conclusions In conclusion, salt reduction activities are currently being implemented through a variety of different programs but additional efforts and more robust national monitoring mechanisms are required to ensure that Australia is on track to achieve the proposed 30% reduction in salt intake within the next decade. PMID:26090332

IDF Sagebrush Habitat Mitigation Project: FY2008 Compensation Area Monitoring Report

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

Durham, Robin E.; Sackschewsky, Michael R.

This document provides a review and status of activities conducted in support of the CH2MHill Hanford Group (CHG) Compensatory Mitigation Implementation Plan (MIP) for the Integrated Disposal Facility (IDF). It includes time-zero monitoring results for planting activities conducted in December 2007, annual survival monitoring for all planting years, a summary of artificial burrow observations, and recommendations for the successful completion of DOE mitigation commitments for this project.

Getting a handle on DNFB strategies for boosting performance.

PubMed

2015-03-01

Keeping tabs on DNFB requires a commitment from multiple departments, including clinical documentation, health information management, utilization management, and patient financial services. Monitoring DNFB performance daily, weekly, and monthly can help an organization quickly resolve short-term problems and also identify and respond to more systemic issues. By leveraging historical and comparison data, including performance information from peer organizations, hospitals and health systems can set more realistic targets and further highlight improvement opportunities.

The New Logic of Hypertext: Electronic Documents, Literary Theory, and Air Force Publications

DTIC Science & Technology

1996-12-01

Technology, 1991. Derrida , Jaques , "Living On," in Deconstruction and Criticism, Ed. Harold Bloom. New York: Seabury Press, 1979. "Signature Event Context...dangerous fagade hiding the essential interconnectedness of all texts. Derrida , perhaps the leading voice of the deconstructionist critics (and a writer...to it.... ( Derrida , 1979:83-84) The deconstructionists were committed to breaking down the deceptive "boundaries" that appeared to isolate a text from

China SLAT Plan Template

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

Dietrich, Richard E.

2016-07-01

This document serves as the System-Level Acceptance Test (SLAT) Plan for Site Name, City, Country. This test plan is to provide independent testing of the Radiation Detection System (RDS) installed at Site Name to verify that Customs has been delivered a fully-functioning system as required by all contractual commitments. The system includes all installed hardware and software components. The SLAT plan will verify that separate components are working individually and collectively from a system perspective.

ASP, Art and Science of Practice: Educating Military Operations Research Practitioners

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-04-01

the ships are relatively slow. This is a multiple traveling salesman problem with moving customers, where the Navy may consume a gallon of fuel to...Defense, in a unique relationship that ensures NPS students and faculty are focused on critical and important problems facing the military. Our students...integrate graduate education with a commitment to solving real military problems , and our programs have already been documented in the open literature

The Cape Town Declaration on Vaccines 2012: Unlocking the full potential of vaccines in Africa.

PubMed

Wiysonge, Charles S; Waggie, Zainab; Hawkridge, Anthony; Schoub, Barry D; Madhi, Shabir A; Rees, Helen; Hussey, Gregory D

2016-07-19

Delegates at the first International African Vaccinology Conference noted, with dismay, that many African children have limited access to existing and new vaccines as a consequence of weak immunisation programmes, lack of political will, and high vaccine prices. This inequality is a denial of the African child her basic right to a healthy life, and jeopardises long term economic growth on the continent. In addition, there is insufficient emphasis in Africa on adolescent and adult immunisation. The delegates documented various concerns and made various commitments; contained in this Cape Town Declaration on Vaccines, adopted on 11 November 2012. Finally, delegates confirmed their agreement with the goals and strategic objectives of the Global Vaccine Action Plan, and committed to hold African leaders accountable for its implementation during the Decade of Vaccines. The full list of registered conference delegates is provided as supplementary data to this manuscript. Copyright © 2016.

Reappraising Positivism and Education: The Arguments of Philipp Frank and Herbert Feigl

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matthews, Michaelr.

This paper documents some of the `bad press' that Positivism has received in science education; it delineates the varied, and sometimes contradictory, ways in which educationalists characterize positivism; it indicates that Constructivism shares the same philosophical commitments as the instrumentalist tradition in positivism; and it suggests that there is considerable educational gain in reconsidering the philosophical and educational commitments of the non-instrumentalist, logical empiricist, tradition in positivism. The paper proceeds by examining and elaborating upon two educational papers of Vienna Circle members Philipp Frank and Herbert Feigl. It is argued that a number of the philosophical and educational `principles' of these foundational positivists are of value to educators facing a worldwide drift from natural sciences in schools and universities, and an increasingly strident anti-science lobby in universities and society. There are at least some positivist babies that should not be thrown out with the educational bathwater.

The Role of Civil Society Organizations in Monitoring the Global AIDS Response.

PubMed

Smith, Julia; Mallouris, Christoforos; Lee, Kelley; Alfvén, Tobias

2017-07-01

Civil society organizations (CSOs) are recognized as playing an exceptional role in the global AIDS response. However, there is little detailed research to date on how they contribute to specific governance functions. This article uses Haas' framework on global governance functions to map CSO's participation in the monitoring of global commitments to the AIDS response by institutions and states. Drawing on key informant interviews and primary documents, it focuses specifically on CSO participation in Global AIDS Response Progress Reporting and in Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria processes. It argues that the AIDS response is unique within global health governance, in that CSOs fulfill both formal and informal monitoring functions, and considers the strengths and weaknesses of these contributions. It concludes that future global health governance arrangements should include provisions and resources for monitoring by CSOs because their participation creates more inclusive global health governance and contributes to strengthening commitments to human rights.

'BRICS without straw'? A systematic literature review of newly emerging economies' influence in global health.

PubMed

Harmer, Andrew; Xiao, Yina; Missoni, Eduardo; Tediosi, Fabrizio

2013-04-15

Since 2010, five newly emerging economies collectively known as 'BRICS' (Brazil, India, Russia, China and South Africa) have caught the imagination, and scholarly attention, of political scientists, economists and development specialists. The prospect of a unified geopolitical bloc, consciously seeking to re-frame international (and global) health development with a new set of ideas and values, has also, if belatedly, begun to attract the attention of the global health community. But what influence, if any, do the BRICS wield in global health, and, if they do wield influence, how has that influence been conceptualized and recorded in the literature? We conducted a systematic literature review in (March-December 2012) of documents retrieved from the databases EMBASE, PubMed/Medline, Global Health, and Google Scholar, and the websites of relevant international organisations, research institutions and philanthropic organisations. The results were synthesised using a framework of influence developed for the review from the political science literature. Our initial search of databases and websites yielded 887 documents. Exclusion criteria narrowed the number of documents to 71 journal articles and 23 reports. Two researchers using an agreed set of inclusion criteria independently screened the 94 documents, leaving just 7 documents. We found just one document that provided sustained analysis of the BRICS' collective influence; the overwhelming tendency was to describe individual BRICS countries influence. Although influence was predominantly framed by BRICS countries' material capability, there were examples of institutional and ideational influence - particularly from Brazil. Individual BRICS countries were primarily 'opportunity seekers' and region mobilisers but with potential to become 'issue leaders' and region organisers. Though small in number, the written output on BRICS influence in global health has increased significantly since a similar review conducted in 2010 found just one study. Whilst it may still be 'early days' for newly-emerging economies influence in global health to have matured, we argue that there is scope to further develop the concept of influence in global health, but also to better understand the ontology of groups of countries such as BRICS. The BRICS have made a number of important commitments towards reforming global health, but if they are to be more than a memorable acronym they need to start putting those collective commitments into action. Keywords BRICS, global health, influence, newly emerging economies, Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa.

An international comparative overview on the rehabilitation of offenders and effective measures for the prevention of recidivism.

PubMed

Someda, Kei

2009-04-01

The prevention of recidivism has long been a central issue in criminal justice policy. This is justified because an offender who repeatedly commits crime inflicts far greater damage on society than an offender who commits a crime just once in his/her lifetime. For instance, research by the Ministry of Justice of Japan (2007) reveals that only approximately 30% of repeat offenders were responsible for around 60% of the crime committed in Japan from 1948 to 2006. It has been proven that the realization of the rehabilitation of offenders contributes to the reduction of recidivism. The successful rehabilitation of offenders depends in large part upon the effectiveness of the community-based treatment given to offenders based upon an appropriate assessment of multidimensional risk factors and a multidisciplinary approach. In exploring effective community-based treatment of offenders using a multidisciplinary approach, the author touches upon several effective programs from an international comparative view, including: intensive supervision probation/parole (ISP), Drug Court, cognitive behavioral treatment programs and some recent developments related to this field in Japan.

A fragile bond: adoptive parents' experiences of caring for children with a diagnosis of reactive attachment disorder.

PubMed

Follan, Michael; McNamara, Martin

2014-04-01

To understand how adoptive parents caring for children with a diagnosis of reactive attachment disorder (RAD) make sense of their life-worlds by establishing the meanings that underlie and structure their experiences of their everyday lives. Reactive attachment disorder is a serious psychosocial disorder of childhood that causes short- and long-term relationship, health and social consequences for children. It is more likely to be observed in children being cared for by foster carers, kinship carers or adoptive parents. Exploration of adoption from parents' perspectives is not well documented, and no previous work has been undertaken to understand the challenges of caring for children with a diagnosis of reactive attachment disorder. The study was guided by Husserl's phenomenology, which aims to uncover the underlying essential meanings intrinsic to a phenomenon. Three concepts are central to this approach: essences, intuiting and eidetic reduction. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight adoptive parents. Data were analysed using an adaptation of Colaizzi's method. Four essential elements fundamental to participants' lived experiences of caring for a child with a diagnosis of RAD were uncovered: being profoundly unprepared, being insecure, being assailed by unexpected emotions and being committed. The parent-child relationship is a fragile bond developed at an unexpectedly high personal cost; it is a committed relationship but vulnerable to continual destabilisation. The involvement in the preparation of adoptive parents of child and adolescent mental health (CAMH) staff with expertise in the impact of early neglect or separation on children should be considered. The development of systems to prepare, screen and identify potential challenges and problems prior to adoption might help adoptive parents. Access to a CAMH professional in the pre and postadoption phases might assist potential adoptive parents in making informed decisions around the choice of a child for adoption. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Examining the impact of opioid analgesics on crash responsibility in truck drivers involved in fatal crashes.

PubMed

Reguly, Paula; Dubois, Sacha; Bédard, Michel

2014-01-01

Commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers, particularly drivers of large trucks continue to be a population of concern regarding traffic safety despite the reduction in large truck crash rates over the past decade. Medication and drug use while driving is one important risk factor for large truck crashes. Work-related exposures, such as vibration, manual handling and poor ergonomics contribute to an increased risk for injuries and chronic conditions and are common reasons for opioid analgesic (OA) use by CMV truck drivers. The objectives of this study were to examine the role of OA use in CMV truck drivers involved in fatal crashes by: (a) generating prevalence estimates of OA use; (b) documenting the relationship between OA use and crash responsibility. Case-control study using logistic regression to compare Fatality Analysis Reporting System (1993-2008) record of one or more crash-related unsafe driver actions (UDAs--a proxy measure of responsibility) between drivers with a positive drug test and drivers with a negative drug test for OA, controlling for age, other drug use, and driving history. The annual prevalence of OA use among all CMV drivers of large trucks involved in fatal crashes did not exceed 0.46% for any year in the study period and mostly ranged between 0.1 and 0.2%. Male truck drivers using OA had greater odds of committing an UDA (OR: 2.80; 95% CI: 1.64; 4.81). Middle-aged users had greater odds than younger or older users. The results of our study indicate that the presence of OAs is associated with greater odds of committing an UDA. This association may have implications for the commercial transport industry and traffic safety. However, the limited prevalence of OA use is encouraging and further research is needed to address the limitations of the study. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Epidemiological transition of some diseases in Oman: a situational analysis.

PubMed

Ganguly, S S; Al-Shafaee, M A; Al-Lawati, J A; Dutta, P K; Duttagupta, K K

2009-01-01

During the past 35 years Oman has undergone a rapid socioeconomic and epidemiological transition leading to a steep reduction in child and adult mortality and morbidity due to the decline of various communicable diseases, including vaccine-preventable diseases. Good governance and planning, together with leadership and commitment by the government, has been a critical factor in this reduction. However, with increasing prosperity, lifestyle-related noncommunicable diseases have emerged as new health challenges to the country, with cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and obesity in the lead among other chronic conditions. Appropriate prevention strategies for reducing the burden of noncommunicable diseases are discussed.

Reviews on current carbon emission reduction technologies and projects and their feasibilities on ships

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Haibin; Zhou, Peilin; Wang, Zhongcheng

2017-06-01

Concern about global climate change is growing, and many projects and researchers are committed to reducing greenhouse gases from all possible sources. International Maritime (IMO) has set a target of 20% CO2 reduction from shipping by 2020 and also presented a series of carbon emission reduction methods, which are known as Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) and Energy Efficiency Operation Indicator (EEOI). Reviews on carbon emission reduction from all industries indicate that, Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) is an excellent solution to global warming. In this paper, a comprehensive literature review of EEDI and EEOI and CCS is conducted and involves reviewing current policies, introducing common technologies, and considering their feasibilities for marine activities, mainly shipping. Current projects are also presented in this paper, thereby illustrating that carbon emission reduction has been the subject of attention from all over the world. Two case ship studies indicate the economic feasibility of carbon emission reduction and provide a guide for CCS system application and practical installation on ships.

Tradespace and Affordability - Phase 1

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-07-09

assessment options Cost-effectiveness, risk reduction leverage/ROI, rework avoidance Tool, data, scenario availability Contract Number: H98230-08-D-0171...Prepare FED assessment plans and earned value milestones Try to relate earned value to risk -exposure avoided rather than budgeted cost F. Begin...evaluate and iterate plans and enablers I. Assess readiness for Commitment Review Shortfalls identified as risks and covered by risk mitigation

Green Desktop Computing at the University of Oxford

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Noble, Howard; Curtis, Daniel; Tang, Kang

2009-01-01

The government of the United Kingdom has set a target to reduce CO2 emissions by at least 34 percent from 1990 levels by 2020. The Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC) will require all large public and private sector organizations across the U.K. to cut carbon emissions and report total CO2 emissions annually so that the data can be published in a…

Establish Time for Learning: Finding Time to Collaborate Takes Creativity and Commitment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Killion, Joellen

2016-01-01

The major challenge with time is finding it. Current school-day schedules and school-year calendars are leaner than ever because of budget reductions. States and districts have implemented furlough days to balance lean-and-mean budgets that show no sign of improving. Few are willing to take the leap toward reducing instructional time to improve…

A Review of New Labour's Policy on School Exclusion: The Political Challenge of School Disaffection in England

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Reed, Jodie

2003-01-01

Shortly after coming to power, Tony Blair's New Labour government expressed its strong commitment to tackling the problem of school expulsion. The Treasury's 1998 Spending Review included the bold target to achieve "a reduction by one third in... exclusions (from 12,500 to 8,400 permanent exclusions a year) by 2002". This article gives…

Reducing the Federal Budget: Strategies and Examples, Fiscal Years 1982- 1986.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-02-01

Small issues are being used with increasing frequency to finance a wide range of facilities including manufacturing plants, fast- food franchises , and...Funding for Amtrak .......... 79 Phasing Out of Conrail Funding ........ 81 Reduction in New Subway Commitments ...... ... 83 Reduced Spending on...Grant ............... 166 Changes in Food Stamp Program . . . . . . . 168 Recoupment of Food Stamp Benefits . . . . .. 171 Change in the Low Income

State Constitutional Commitment to Health and Health Care and Population Health Outcomes: Evidence From Historical US Data

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

Objectives. I investigated whether the introduction of health and health care provisions in US state constitutions can make health systems more equitable and improve health outcomes by urging state policymakers and administrative agencies to uphold their human rights obligations at state level. Methods. I constructed a panel of infant mortality rates from 50 US states over the period 1929 through 2000 to examine their association with the timing and details of introducing a constitutional right to health and health care provisions. Results. The introduction of a stronger constitutional commitment that obligates state legislature to provide health care was associated with a subsequent reduction in the infant mortality rate of approximately 7.8%. The introduction of provisions explicitly targeting the poor was also associated with a reduction in the infant mortality rate of 6.5%. These health benefits are primarily evident in non-White populations. Conclusions. This empirical result supports Elizabeth Leonard’s view that although state constitutional rights have been poorly enforced through the judiciary, a constitutional expression of health care duties has fueled the political and social process, ultimately allowing states to identify the best way to address citizens’ health inequality concerns. PMID:25905857

State constitutional commitment to health and health care and population health outcomes: evidence from historical US data.

PubMed

Matsuura, Hiroaki

2015-07-01

I investigated whether the introduction of health and health care provisions in US state constitutions can make health systems more equitable and improve health outcomes by urging state policymakers and administrative agencies to uphold their human rights obligations at state level. I constructed a panel of infant mortality rates from 50 US states over the period 1929 through 2000 to examine their association with the timing and details of introducing a constitutional right to health and health care provisions. The introduction of a stronger constitutional commitment that obligates state legislature to provide health care was associated with a subsequent reduction in the infant mortality rate of approximately 7.8%. The introduction of provisions explicitly targeting the poor was also associated with a reduction in the infant mortality rate of 6.5%. These health benefits are primarily evident in non-White populations. This empirical result supports Elizabeth Leonard's view that although state constitutional rights have been poorly enforced through the judiciary, a constitutional expression of health care duties has fueled the political and social process, ultimately allowing states to identify the best way to address citizens' health inequality concerns.

High chance that current atmospheric greenhouse concentrations commit to warmings greater than 1.5 °C over land.

PubMed

Huntingford, Chris; Mercado, Lina M

2016-07-27

The recent Paris UNFCCC climate meeting discussed the possibility of limiting global warming to 2 °C since pre-industrial times, or possibly even 1.5 °C, which would require major future emissions reductions. However, even if climate is stabilised at current atmospheric greenhouse gas (GHG) concentrations, those warming targets would almost certainly be surpassed in the context of mean temperature increases over land only. The reason for this is two-fold. First, current transient warming lags significantly below equilibrium or "committed" warming. Second, almost all climate models indicate warming rates over land are much higher than those for the oceans. We demonstrate this potential for high eventual temperatures over land, even for contemporary GHG levels, using a large set of climate models and for which climate sensitivities are known. Such additional land warming has implications for impacts on terrestrial ecosystems and human well-being. This suggests that even if massive and near-immediate emissions reductions occur such that atmospheric GHGs increase further by only small amounts, careful planning is needed by society to prepare for higher land temperatures in an eventual equilibrium climatic state.

Immunotherapy of Alzheimer's disease (AD): from murine models to anti-amyloid beta (Abeta) human monoclonal antibodies.

PubMed

Geylis, Valeria; Steinitz, Michael

2006-01-01

The deposition of amyloid beta (Abeta) protein is a key pathological feature in Alzheimer's disease (AD). In murine models of AD, both active and passive immunization against Abeta induce a marked reduction in amyloid brain burden and an improvement in cognitive functions. Preliminary results of a prematurely terminated clinical trial where AD patients were actively vaccinated with aggregated Abeta bear resemblance to those documented in murine models. Passive immunization of AD patients with anti-Abeta antibodies, in particular human antibodies, is a strategy that provides a more cautious management and control of any undesired side effects. Sera of all healthy adults contain anti-Abeta IgG autoimmune antibodies. Hence antigen-committed human B-cells are easily immortalized by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) into anti-Abeta secreting cell lines. Two anti-Abeta human monoclonal antibodies which we recently prepared bind to the N-terminus of Abeta peptide and were shown to stain amyloid plaques in non-fixed brain sections from an AD patient. It is anticipated that specifically selected anti-Abeta human monoclonal antibodies could reduce and inhibit deposits of amyloid in brain while avoiding the cognitive decline that characterizes AD. In the future, this type of antibody may prove to be a promising immune therapy for the disease.

Integrating a Suicide Prevention Program into the Primary Health Care Network: A Field Trial Study in Iran

PubMed Central

Malakouti, Seyed Kazem; Nojomi, Marzieh; Poshtmashadi, Marjan; Hakim Shooshtari, Mitra; Mansouri Moghadam, Fariba; Rahimi-Movaghar, Afarin; Afghah, Susan; Bolhari, Jafar; Bazargan-Hejazi, Shahrzad

2015-01-01

Objective. To describe and evaluate the feasibility of integrating a suicide prevention program with Primary Health Care services and evaluate if such system can improve screening and identification of depressive disorder, reduce number of suicide attempters, and lower rate of suicide completion. Methodology. This was a quasi-experimental trial in which one community was exposed to the intervention versus the control community with no such exposure. The study sites were two counties in Western Iran. The intervention protocol called for primary care and suicide prevention collaboration at different levels of care. The outcome variables were the number of suicides committed, the number of documented suicide attempts, and the number of identified depressed cases. Results. We identified a higher prevalence of depressive disorders in the intervention site versus the control site (χ 2 = 14.8, P < 0.001). We also found a reduction in the rate of suicide completion in the intervention region compared to the control, but a higher prevalence of suicide attempts in both the intervention and the control sites. Conclusion. Integrating a suicide prevention program with the Primary Health Care network enhanced depression and suicide surveillance capacity and subsequently reduced the number of suicides, especially in rural areas. PMID:25648221

Benefits of using biogas technology in rural area: karo district on supporting local action plan for greenhouse gas emission reduction of north sumatera province 2010-2020

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ginting, N.

2017-05-01

Indonesia committed to reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) by 26% in 2020. At the UNFCCC (Conference of the United Nation Framework Convention on Climate Change) held in Paris in December 2015 Indonesia committed to reduce GHG; one way by promoting clean energy use for example biogas. Agricultural industry produces organic waste which contributes to global warming and climate change. In Karo District, mostly the people were farmers, either horticulture or fruit and produces massive organic waste. Biogas research was conducted in Karo District in May until July 2016 used 5 biodigesters. The purpose was to determine benefits of using biogas technology in order to reduct GHG emissions. The used design was Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with treatments: T1 (100% cow feces), T2 (75% cow feces + 25% horticultural waste), T3 (50% cow feces + 50% horticultural waste), T4 (25% cow feces + 75% horticultural waste) and T5 (100% horticultural waste). Parameter research were gas production, pH and temperature. The research result showed that T1 produced the highest methane ( P<0.05) compared to other treatments while T2 produced methane higher (P<0.05) compared to T4 or T5. There was no difference on methane production between T4 and T5. As conclusion application of biogas on agricultural waste supported local action plan for greenhouse gas emission reduction of North Sumatera Province 2010-2020. From horticultural waste, there were 2.1 × 106 ton CO2 eq in 2014 which were not calculated in RAD GRK (Regional Action Plan for Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction).

Awareness of Stress-Reduction Interventions on Work Attitudes: The Impact of Tenure and Staff Group in Australian Universities.

PubMed

Pignata, Silvia; Winefield, Anthony H; Provis, Chris; Boyd, Carolyn M

2016-01-01

This study explored the impact of staff group role and length of organizational tenure in the relationship between the awareness of stress interventions (termed intervention awareness: IA) and the work-related attitudinal outcomes of university employees. A two-wave longitudinal study of a sample of 869 employees from 13 universities completed a psychosocial work factors and health questionnaire. Hierarchical regression analyses examined the contribution of staff role and different lengths of organizational tenure with IA and employees' reports of job satisfaction, affective organizational commitment, trust in senior management, and perceived procedural justice. Employees' length of tenure affected the relation between IA and work attitudes, and there were also differences between academic and non-academic staff groups. For non-academic employees, IA predicted job satisfaction, affective organizational commitment, trust in senior management, and perceived procedural justice. However, for academics, IA only predicted job satisfaction and trust which identifies a need to increase the visibility of organizational interventions. Across the tenure groups, IA predicted: (1) perceived procedural justice for employees with five or less years of tenure; (2) job satisfaction for employees with 0-19 years of tenure; (3) trust in senior management for employees with 6-19 years of tenure; and (4) affective organizational commitment for employees with a tenure length of 6-10 years. Employees working at the university for an intermediate period had the most positive perceptions of their organization in terms of IA, job satisfaction, trust in senior management, and affective organizational commitment, whereas employees with 20-38 years of tenure had the least positive perceptions. Results suggest that employees in the middle of their careers report the most positive perceptions of their university. The findings highlight the need to attend to contextual issues in organizational stress and wellbeing interventions and suggest that management may need to implement new strategies and/or promote existing stress-management and reduction strategies to academics, and employees whom are either new to the university or those who have been working for the organization for longer periods of time to ensure that they are aware of organizational strategies to promote employee wellbeing and morale within their work environments.

Applications of research from the U.S. Geological Survey program, assessment of regional earthquake hazards and risk along the Wasatch Front, Utah

USGS Publications Warehouse

Gori, Paula L.

1993-01-01

INTERACTIVE WORKSHOPS: ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS OF THE EARTHQUAKE HAZARDS RESEARCH AND REDUCTION PROGRAM IN THE WASATCH FRONT, UTAH: Interactive workshops provided the forum and stimulus necessary to foster collaboration among the participants in the multidisciplinary, 5-yr program of earthquake hazards reduction in the Wasatch Front, Utah. The workshop process validated well-documented social science theories on the importance of interpersonal interaction, including interaction between researchers and users of research to increase the probability that research will be relevant to the user's needs and, therefore, more readily used. REDUCING EARTHQUAKE HAZARDS IN UTAH: THE CRUCIAL CONNECTION BETWEEN RESEARCHERS AND PRACTITIONERS: Complex scientific and engineering studies must be translated for and transferred to nontechnical personnel for use in reducing earthquake hazards in Utah. The three elements needed for effective translation, likelihood of occurrence, location, and severity of potential hazards, and the three elements needed for effective transfer, delivery, assistance, and encouragement, are described and illustrated for Utah. The importance of evaluating and revising earthquake hazard reduction programs and their components is emphasized. More than 30 evaluations of various natural hazard reduction programs and techniques are introduced. This report was prepared for research managers, funding sources, and evaluators of the Utah earthquake hazard reduction program who are concerned about effectiveness. An overview of the Utah program is provided for those researchers, engineers, planners, and decisionmakers, both public and private, who are committed to reducing human casualties, property damage, and interruptions of socioeconomic systems. PUBLIC PERCEPTIONS OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF EARTHQUAKE MITIGATION POLICIES ALONG THE WASATCH FRONT IN UTAH: The earthquake hazard potential along the Wasatch Front in Utah has been well defined by a number of scientific and engineering studies. Translated earthquake hazard maps have also been developed to identify areas that are particularly vulnerable to various causes of damage such as ground shaking, surface rupturing, and liquefaction. The implementation of earthquake hazard reduction plans are now under way in various communities in Utah. The results of a survey presented in this paper indicate that technical public officials (planners and building officials) have an understanding of the earthquake hazards and how to mitigate the risks. Although the survey shows that the general public has a slightly lower concern about the potential for economic losses, they recognize the potential problems and can support a number of earthquake mitigation measures. The study suggests that many community groups along the Wasatch Front, including volunteer groups, business groups, and elected and appointed officials, are ready for action-oriented educational programs. These programs could lead to a significant reduction in the risks associated with earthquake hazards. A DATA BASE DESIGNED FOR URBAN SEISMIC HAZARDS STUDIES: A computerized data base has been designed for use in urban seismic hazards studies conducted by the U.S. Geological Survey. The design includes file structures for 16 linked data sets, which contain geological, geophysical, and seismological data used in preparing relative ground response maps of large urban areas. The data base is organized along relational data base principles. A prototype urban hazards data base has been created for evaluation in two urban areas currently under investigation: the Wasatch Front region of Utah and the Puget Sound area of Washington. The initial implementation of the urban hazards data base was accomplished on a microcomputer using dBASE III Plus software and transferred to minicomputers and a work station. A MAPPING OF GROUND-SHAKING INTENSITIES FOR SALT LAKE COUNTY, UTAH: This paper documents the development of maps showing a

Competencies for optimal practice in integrated environments: examining attributes of a consensus interprofessional practice document from the licensed integrative health disciplines.

PubMed

Goldblatt, Elizabeth; Wiles, Michael; Schwartz, Jan; Weeks, John

2013-01-01

The Academic Consortium for Complementary and Alternative Health Care (ACCAHC) is committed to advancing human health through the advancement and integration of the complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) professions within the American healthcare system. This will involve the maturation and integration of the licensed CAM professions into conventional healthcare delivery, and in turn, it will involve the development of competency in integrative healthcare and interprofessional education within the CAM professions. In 2010, ACCAHC resolved to identify the competencies necessary for this transformation, and in the process, discovered a parallel process of competency development within conventional healthcare, the Interprofessional Education Collaborative (IPEC), representing the six major conventional healthcare professions. The ACCAHC competency document, its development, and its similarity to the IPEC document are discussed. The ACCAHC competency document identified two domains of competence that were not present in the IPEC document: evidence-informed practice and institutional healthcare practices. These two domains of competency are discussed with respect to their significance in both CAM and conventional healthcare practices. ACCAHC's goal is to foster collaboration among its member professions and with conventional healthcare professions, and to use these competency documents to improve and optimize healthcare delivery, practices, and outcomes in America. It is hoped that ACCAHC's competency document will catalyze interaction with IPEC leading to the adoption of a single shared competency document that will meet the needs of all healthcare providers and educators. © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

An overview of salt intake reduction efforts in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries.

PubMed

Alhamad, Nawal; Almalt, Elsayed; Alamir, Najeeba; Subhakaran, Monica

2015-06-01

Globally, morbidity and mortality from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are increasing steadily and at an alarming rate. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and salt reduction is an effective measure to decrease mortality rates. In the Eastern Mediterranean region, current salt intake is high, with an average intake of >12 g per person per day. Reducing the intake of salt has been identified as a priority intervention to reduce NCDs. Countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) are showing a willingness to comply with the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations and an eagerness to reduce the burden of NCDs. However, they face some challenges, including lack of political commitment, lack of experience, and shortage of qualified human resources. Salt intake reduction efforts vary in the GCC region, from achieving 20% salt reduction in bread, to the very early stages of planning.

An overview of salt intake reduction efforts in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries

PubMed Central

Almalt, Elsayed; Alamir, Najeeba; Subhakaran, Monica

2015-01-01

Globally, morbidity and mortality from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are increasing steadily and at an alarming rate. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and salt reduction is an effective measure to decrease mortality rates. In the Eastern Mediterranean region, current salt intake is high, with an average intake of >12 g per person per day. Reducing the intake of salt has been identified as a priority intervention to reduce NCDs. Countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) are showing a willingness to comply with the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations and an eagerness to reduce the burden of NCDs. However, they face some challenges, including lack of political commitment, lack of experience, and shortage of qualified human resources. Salt intake reduction efforts vary in the GCC region, from achieving 20% salt reduction in bread, to the very early stages of planning. PMID:26090327

Global action to prevent war: a programme for government and grassroots efforts to stop war, genocide and other forms of deadly conflict.

PubMed

Dean, J; Forsberg, R C; Mendlovitz, S

2000-01-01

At the end of history's bloodiest century and the outset of a new millennium, we have an opportunity to fulfil one of humanity's oldest dreams: making the world largely free of war. Global changes make this goal achievable. Nuclear weapons have shown the folly of war. For the first time, there is no war and no immediate prospect of war among the main military powers. For the first time, many proven measures to prevent armed conflict, distilled in the crucible of this century's wars, are available. If systematically applied, these measures can sharply decrease the frequency and violence of war, genocide, and other forms of deadly conflict. To seize the opportunity, nations should adopt a comprehensive programme to reduce conventional armaments and armed conflict. This programme will complement and strengthen efforts to eliminate nuclear arms. To assure its ongoing worldwide implementation, the conventional reduction programme should be placed in a treaty framework. We propose a four-phased process, with three treaties, each lasting five to ten years, to lay the groundwork for the fourth treaty, which will establish a permanent international security system. The main objectives of the treaties are to achieve: 1. A verified commitment to provide full transparency on conventional armed forces and military spending, not to increase forces during negotiations on arms reductions, and to increase the resources allocated to multilateral conflict prevention and peacekeeping. 2. Substantial worldwide cuts in national armed forces and military spending and further strengthening of United Nations and regional peacekeeping and peace-enforcement capabilities. 3. A trial of a watershed commitment by participating nations, including the major powers, not to deploy their armed forces beyond national borders except in a multilateral action under UN or regional auspices. 4. A permanent transfer to the UN and regional security organizations of the authority and capability for armed intervention to prevent or end war, accompanied by further substantial cuts in national armed forces and increases in UN and regional forces. This programme offers many valuable features: a global framework for conventional forces that parallels the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty; a verified no-increase commitment for national armed forces based on full data exchange; a commitment to undertake prescribed confidence-building measures, including limits on force activities and deployments; a commitment to a specified plan for increased funding of UN and regional peacekeeping capabilities; a commitment to strengthen international legal institutions; and after a trial period, a lasting commitment by each participant not to unilaterally deploy its armed forces beyond its borders, but instead to give the responsibility for peacekeeping and peace enforcement to international institutions. This programme of phased steps to reduce armed forces and strengthen peacekeeping institutions will make war rare. It will foster the spread of zones of peace like those in North America and Western Europe where, after centuries of violence, international and civil war have given way to the peaceful settlement of disputes.

Decision-Making Processes during State Appropriation Cuts in Michigan Public Universities: How Administrators Respond to These Cuts a Case Study of State "A" University

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Almeshagbeh, Wasfi K.

2012-01-01

In principle and practice, Michigan's public universities are committed to the sustained improvement of educational and economic opportunities in the state. However, their place in the state's general fund budget makes them especially vulnerable to reductions, when resources are low. The remarkable impact that higher education has on every person…

JPRS Report, Soviet Union, Political Affairs, Preparations for the 19th Party Conference, Part 4.

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-10-30

the works of V.l. Lenin and party documents of the Leninist period. Then the requirements of glasnost and their practical realization during the... during the precongress discus- sion, the sketch from Tula Oblast entitled "Restoration," etc. Letters have been published in the newspaper from those on...level, during the regular report-election campaign in the party. Discussion of the Theses of the CPSU Central Commit- tee for the 19th All-Union Party

Assessing explicit error reporting in the narrative electronic medical record using keyword searching.

PubMed

Cao, Hui; Stetson, Peter; Hripcsak, George

2003-01-01

In this study, we assessed the explicit reporting of medical errors in the electronic record. We looked for cases in which the provider explicitly stated that he or she or another provider had committed an error. The advantage of the technique is that it is not limited to a specific type of error. Our goals were to 1) measure the rate at which medical errors were documented in medical records, and 2) characterize the types of errors that were reported.

British American Tobacco's failure in Turkey.

PubMed

Lawrence, S

2009-02-01

Transnational tobacco companies (TTCs) considered Turkey an important, potential investment market because of its high consumption rates and domestic commitment to tobacco. This paper outlines how British American Tobacco (BAT) attempted to establish a joint venture with the government monopoly TEKEL, while waiting for privatisation and a private tender. Analysis of tobacco industry documents from the Guildford Depository and online tobacco document sources. BAT failed to establish a market share in Turkey until 2000 despite repeated attempts to form a joint venture with Turkey's tobacco monopoly, TEKEL, once the market liberalised in the mid 1980s. BAT's failure in the Turkish market was due to a misguided investment strategy focused solely on acquiring TEKEL and is contrasted with Philip Morris success in Turkey despite both TTCs working within Turkey's unstable and corrupt investing climate.

Final Hazard Categorization for the Remediation of Six 300-FF-2 Operable Unit Solid Waste Burial Grounds

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

J. D. Ludowise

2006-12-12

This report provides the final hazard categorization (FHC) for the remediation of six solid waste disposal sites (referred to as burial grounds) located in the 300-FF-2 Operable Unit (OU) on the Hanford Site. These six sites (618-1, 618-2, 618-3, 618-7, 618-8, and 618-13 Burial Grounds) were determined to have a total radionuclide inventory (WCH 2005a, WCH 2005d, WCH 2005e and WCH 2006b) that exceeds the DOE-STD-1027 Category 3 threshold quantity (DOE 1997) and are the subject of this analysis. This FHC document examines the hazards, identifies appropriate controls to manage the hazards, and documents the FHC and commitments for themore » 300-FF-2 Burial Grounds Remediation Project.« less

Augmented Citizen Science for Environmental Monitoring and Education

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Albers, B.; de Lange, N.; Xu, S.

2017-09-01

Environmental monitoring and ecological studies detect and visualize changes of the environment over time. Some agencies are committed to document the development of conservation and status of geotopes and geosites, which is time-consuming and cost-intensive. Citizen science and crowd sourcing are modern approaches to collect data and at the same time to raise user awareness for environmental changes. Citizen scientists can take photographs of point of interests (POI) with smartphones and the PAN App, which is presented in this article. The user is navigated to a specific point and is then guided with an augmented reality approach to take a photo in a specific direction. The collected photographs are processed to time-lapse videos to visualize environmental changes. Users and experts in environmental agencies can use this data for long-term documentation.

Building and Using Digital Repository Certifications across Science

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McIntosh, L.

2017-12-01

When scientific recommendations are made based upon research, the quality and integrity of the data should be rigorous enough to verify claims and in a trusted location. Key to ensuring the transparency and verifiability of research, reproducibility hinges not only on the availability of the documentation, analyses, and data, but the ongoing accessibility and viability of the files and documents, enhanced through a process of curation. The Research Data Alliance (RDA) is an international, community-driven, action-oriented, virtual organization committed to enabling the open sharing of data by building social and technical bridges. Within the RDA, multiple groups are working on consensus-building around the certification of digital repositories across scientific domains. For this section of the panel, we will discuss the work to date on repository certification from this RDA perspective.

Using IT to improve quality at NewYork-Presybterian Hospital: a requirements-driven strategic planning process.

PubMed

Kuperman, Gilad J; Boyer, Aurelia; Cole, Curt; Forman, Bruce; Stetson, Peter D; Cooper, Mary

2006-01-01

At NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, we are committed to the delivery of high quality care. We have implemented a strategic planning process to determine the information technology initiatives that will best help us improve quality. The process began with the creation of a Clinical Quality and IT Committee. The Committee identified 2 high priority goals that would enable demonstrably high quality care: 1) excellence at data warehousing, and 2) optimal use of automated clinical documentation to capture encounter-related quality and safety data. For each high priority goal, a working group was created to develop specific recommendations. The Data Warehousing subgroup has recommended the implementation of an architecture management process and an improved ability for users to get access to aggregate data. The Structured Documentation subgroup is establishing recommendations for a documentation template creation process. The strategic planning process at times is slow, but assures that the organization is focusing on the information technology activities most likely to lead to improved quality.

Using IT to Improve Quality at NewYork-Presybterian Hospital: A Requirements-Driven Strategic Planning Process

PubMed Central

Kuperman, Gilad J.; Boyer, Aurelia; Cole, Curt; Forman, Bruce; Stetson, Peter D.; Cooper, Mary

2006-01-01

At NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, we are committed to the delivery of high quality care. We have implemented a strategic planning process to determine the information technology initiatives that will best help us improve quality. The process began with the creation of a Clinical Quality and IT Committee. The Committee identified 2 high priority goals that would enable demonstrably high quality care: 1) excellence at data warehousing, and 2) optimal use of automated clinical documentation to capture encounter-related quality and safety data. For each high priority goal, a working group was created to develop specific recommendations. The Data Warehousing subgroup has recommended the implementation of an architecture management process and an improved ability for users to get access to aggregate data. The Structured Documentation subgroup is establishing recommendations for a documentation template creation process. The strategic planning process at times is slow, but assures that the organization is focusing on the information technology activities most likely to lead to improved quality. PMID:17238381

Maternal mortality in developing countries: challenges in scaling-up priority interventions.

PubMed

Prata, Ndola; Passano, Paige; Sreenivas, Amita; Gerdts, Caitlin Elisabeth

2010-03-01

Although maternal mortality is a significant global health issue, achievements in mortality decline to date have been inadequate. A review of the interventions targeted at maternal mortality reduction demonstrates that most developing countries face tremendous challenges in the implementation of these interventions, including the availability of unreliable data and the shortage in human and financial resources, as well as limited political commitment. Examples from developing countries, such as Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Honduras, demonstrate that maternal mortality will decline when appropriate strategies are in place. Such achievable strategies need to include redoubled commitments on the part of local, national and global political bodies, concrete investments in high-yield and cost-effective interventions and the delegation of some clinical tasks from higher-level healthcare providers to mid- or lower-level healthcare providers, as well as improved health-management information systems.

Mbd3/NuRD controls lymphoid cell fate and inhibits tumorigenesis by repressing a B cell transcriptional program

PubMed Central

Hamey, Fiona K.; Errami, Youssef

2017-01-01

Differentiation of lineage-committed cells from multipotent progenitors requires the establishment of accessible chromatin at lineage-specific transcriptional enhancers and promoters, which is mediated by pioneer transcription factors that recruit activating chromatin remodeling complexes. Here we show that the Mbd3/nucleosome remodeling and deacetylation (NuRD) chromatin remodeling complex opposes this transcriptional pioneering during B cell programming of multipotent lymphoid progenitors by restricting chromatin accessibility at B cell enhancers and promoters. Mbd3/NuRD-deficient lymphoid progenitors therefore prematurely activate a B cell transcriptional program and are biased toward overproduction of pro–B cells at the expense of T cell progenitors. The striking reduction in early thymic T cell progenitors results in compensatory hyperproliferation of immature thymocytes and development of T cell lymphoma. Our results reveal that Mbd3/NuRD can regulate multilineage differentiation by constraining the activation of dormant lineage-specific enhancers and promoters. In this way, Mbd3/NuRD protects the multipotency of lymphoid progenitors, preventing B cell–programming transcription factors from prematurely enacting lineage commitment. Mbd3/NuRD therefore controls the fate of lymphoid progenitors, ensuring appropriate production of lineage-committed progeny and suppressing tumor formation. PMID:28899870

Navigation Performance of Global Navigation Satellite Systems in the Space Service Volume

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Force, Dale A.

2013-01-01

GPS has been used for spacecraft navigation for many years center dot In support of this, the US has committed that future GPS satellites will continue to provide signals in the Space Service Volume center dot NASA is working with international agencies to obtain similar commitments from other providers center dot In support of this effort, I simulated multi-constellation navigation in the Space Service Volume In this presentation, I extend the work to examine the navigational benefits and drawbacks of the new constellations center dot A major benefit is the reduced geometric dilution of precision (GDOP). I show that there is a substantial reduction in GDOP by using all of the GNSS constellations center dot The increased number of GNSS satellites broadcasting does produce mutual interference, raising the noise floor. A near/far signal problem can also occur where a nearby satellite drowns out satellites that are far away. - In these simulations, no major effect was observed Typically, the use of multi-constellation GNSS navigation improves GDOP by a factor of two or more over GPS alone center dot In addition, at the higher altitudes, four satellite solutions can be obtained much more often center dot This show the value of having commitments to provide signals in the Space Service Volume Besides a commitment to provide a minimum signal in the Space Service Volume, detailed signal gain information is useful for mission planning center dot Knowledge of group and phase delay over the pattern would also reduce the navigational uncertainty

‘BRICS without straw’? A systematic literature review of newly emerging economies’ influence in global health

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Since 2010, five newly emerging economies collectively known as ‘BRICS’ (Brazil, India, Russia, China and South Africa) have caught the imagination, and scholarly attention, of political scientists, economists and development specialists. The prospect of a unified geopolitical bloc, consciously seeking to re-frame international (and global) health development with a new set of ideas and values, has also, if belatedly, begun to attract the attention of the global health community. But what influence, if any, do the BRICS wield in global health, and, if they do wield influence, how has that influence been conceptualized and recorded in the literature? Methods We conducted a systematic literature review in (March-December 2012) of documents retrieved from the databases EMBASE, PubMed/Medline, Global Health, and Google Scholar, and the websites of relevant international organisations, research institutions and philanthropic organisations. The results were synthesised using a framework of influence developed for the review from the political science literature. Results Our initial search of databases and websites yielded 887 documents. Exclusion criteria narrowed the number of documents to 71 journal articles and 23 reports. Two researchers using an agreed set of inclusion criteria independently screened the 94 documents, leaving just 7 documents. We found just one document that provided sustained analysis of the BRICS’ collective influence; the overwhelming tendency was to describe individual BRICS countries influence. Although influence was predominantly framed by BRICS countries’ material capability, there were examples of institutional and ideational influence - particularly from Brazil. Individual BRICS countries were primarily ‘opportunity seekers’ and region mobilisers but with potential to become ‘issue leaders’ and region organisers. Conclusion Though small in number, the written output on BRICS influence in global health has increased significantly since a similar review conducted in 2010 found just one study. Whilst it may still be ‘early days’ for newly-emerging economies influence in global health to have matured, we argue that there is scope to further develop the concept of influence in global health, but also to better understand the ontology of groups of countries such as BRICS. The BRICS have made a number of important commitments towards reforming global health, but if they are to be more than a memorable acronym they need to start putting those collective commitments into action. Keywords BRICS, global health, influence, newly emerging economies, Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa. PMID:23587342

E-learning policies, practices and challenges in two Norwegian organizations.

PubMed

Welle-Strand, Anne; Thune, Taran

2003-05-01

This article reports a pilot study on the uses of technology to enable learning within a formal educational setting in a higher education institution and within a corporation. These two Norwegian cases were selected due to their commitment to technology-enabled learning, as expressed in policy and strategy documents. The aim was to investigate the commitment and actual use of information and communications technology (ICT) for learning as well as what key actors think are the major challenges for successful large scale implementation of ICT for learning. The findings indicate that there is insufficient follow-up on e-learning policies and that there is a general lack of strategic direction and leadership in this area. The key challenges respondents highlight relate to the need for a systematic and pedagogical approach to e-learning in which three equally important considerations must be balanced: organization, pedagogy and technology. Key perspectives of a coherent pedagogical and organizational framework for planning e-learning are discussed.

Environmental restoration and waste management: Five-year plan, Fiscal Years 1992--1996

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

Middleman, L.I.

1990-06-01

This document reflects DOE's fulfillment of a major commitment of the Environmental Restoration and Waste Management Five-Year Plan: reorganization to create an Office of Environmental Restoration and Waste Management (EM) responsible for the consolidated environmental management of nuclear-related facilities and sites formerly under the Assistant Secretaries for Defense Programs and Nuclear Energy and the Director of the Office of Energy Research. The purposes of this Plan for FY 1992--1996 are to measure progress in meeting DOE's compliance, cleanup, and waste management agenda; to incorporate a revised and condensed version of the Draft Research Development, Demonstration, Testing, and Evaluation (RDDT E)more » Plan (November 1989) to describe DOE's process for developing the new technologies critically needed to solve its environmental problems; to show DOE's current strategy and planned activities through FY 1996, including reasons for changes required to meet compliance and cleanup commitments; and to increase the involvement of other agencies and the public in DOE's planning.« less

Workplace hazards and prevention options from a nonrandom sample of retail trade businesses.

PubMed

Anderson, Vern Putz; Chun, Heekyoung

2014-01-01

Employer commitment is a key factor in an effective safety program, yet limited research has focused on the safety priorities of retail store managers. To address this, the U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health recruited 4 experienced ergonomists, who met and interviewed 9 retailers in different parts of the eastern USA. The reports from the 9 interviews were used to document the hazards facing retailers and the interventions they attempted. Those interviewed were managers/owners of establishments that ranged from a small bakery with 11 employees to a supermarket with 85 or more employees. The main hazards across all establishments included overexertion, contact-with-objects, and falls-to-the-same-level. We also compared the retailers' perceptions of safety hazards with injuries from actual hazards as supplied by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This report provides insight into the retailers' perceptions of safety hazards as well as their commitment to the prevention of workplace injuries.

Workplace Hazards and Prevention Options From a Nonrandom Sample of Retail Trade Businesses

PubMed Central

Anderson, Vern Putz; Chun, Heekyoung

2015-01-01

Employer commitment is a key factor in an effective safety program, yet limited research has focused on the safety priorities of retail store managers. To address this, the U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health recruited 4 experienced ergonomists, who met and interviewed 9 retailers in different parts of the eastern USA. The reports from the 9 interviews were used to document the hazards facing retailers and the interventions they attempted. Those interviewed were managers/owners of establishments that ranged from a small bakery with 11 employees to a supermarket with 85 or more employees. The main hazards across all establishments included overexertion, contact-with-objects, and falls-to-the-same-level. We also compared the retailers’ perceptions of safety hazards with injuries from actual hazards as supplied by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This report provides insight into the retailers’ perceptions of safety hazards as well as their commitment to the prevention of workplace injuries. PMID:24629880

A Text Message Intervention with Adaptive Goal Support to Reduce Alcohol Consumption Among Non-Treatment-Seeking Young Adults: Non-Randomized Clinical Trial with Voluntary Length of Enrollment.

PubMed

Suffoletto, Brian; Chung, Tammy; Muench, Frederick; Monti, Peter; Clark, Duncan B

2018-02-16

Stand-alone text message-based interventions can reduce binge drinking episodes (≥4 drinks for women and ≥5 drinks for men) among nontreatment-seeking young adults, but may not be optimized. Adaptive text message support could enhance effectiveness by assisting context-specific goal setting and striving, but it remains unknown how to best integrate it into text message interventions. The objective of this study was to evaluate young adults' engagement with a text message intervention, Texting to Reduce Alcohol Consumption 2 (TRAC2), which focuses on reducing weekend alcohol consumption. TRAC2 incorporated preweekend drinking-limit goal-commitment ecological momentary assessments (EMA) tailored to past 2-week alcohol consumption, intraweekend goal reminders, self-efficacy EMA with support tailored to goal confidence, and maximum weekend alcohol consumption EMA with drinking limit goal feedback. We enrolled 38 nontreatment-seeking young adults (aged 18 to 25 years) who screened positive for hazardous drinking in an urban emergency department. Following a 2-week text message assessment-only run-in, subjects were given the opportunity to enroll in 4-week intervention blocks. We examined patterns of EMA responses and voluntary re-enrollment. We then examined how goal commitment and goal self-efficacy related to event-level alcohol consumption. Finally, we examined the association of length of TRAC2 exposure with alcohol-related outcomes from baseline to 3-month follow-up. Among a diverse sample of young adults (56% [28/50] female, 54% [27/50] black, 32% [12/50] college enrolled), response rates to EMA queries were, on average, 82% for the first 4-week intervention block, 75% for the second 4-week block, and 73% for the third 4-week block. In the first 4 weeks of the intervention, drinking limit goal commitment was made 68/71 times it was prompted (96%). The percentage of subjects being prompted to commit to a drinking limit goal above the binge threshold was 52% (15/29) in week 1 and decreased to 0% (0/15) by week 4. Subjects met their goal 130/146 of the times a goal was committed to (89.0%). There were lower rates of goal success when subjects reported lower confidence (score <4) in meeting the goal (76% [32/42 weekends]) compared with that when subjects reported high confidence (98% [56/57 weekends]; P=.001). There were reductions in alcohol consumption from baseline to 3 months, but reductions were not different by length of intervention exposure. Preliminary evidence suggests that nontreatment-seeking young adults will engage with a text message intervention incorporating self-regulation support features, resulting in high rates of weekend drinking limit goal commitment and goal success. ©Brian Suffoletto, Tammy Chung, Frederick Muench, Peter Monti, Duncan B Clark. Originally published in JMIR Mhealth and Uhealth (http://mhealth.jmir.org), 16.02.2018.

A national evaluation of community-based mental health strategies in Finland.

PubMed

Vähäniemi, Anu; Warwick-Smith, Katja; Hätönen, Heli; Välimäki, Maritta

2018-02-01

High-quality mental health care requires written strategies to set a vision for the future, yet, there is limited systematic information available on the monitoring and evaluation of such strategies. The aim of this nationwide study is to evaluate local mental health strategies in community-based mental health services provided by municipalities. Mental health strategy documents were gathered through an online search and an e-mail survey of the local authorities of all Finnish mainland municipalities (n = 320). Out of 320 municipalities, documents for 129 municipalities (63 documents) were included in the study. The documents obtained (n = 63) were evaluated against the World Health Organization checklist for mental health strategies and policies. Evaluation of the process, operations and content of the documents, against 31 indicators in the checklist. Out of 320 Finnish municipalities, 40% (n = 129) had a mental health strategy document available and 33% (n = 104) had a document that was either in preparation or being updated. In these documents, priorities, targets and activities were clearly described. Nearly all (99%) of the documents suggested a commitment to preventative work, and 89% mentioned a dedication to developing community-based care. The key shortfalls identified were the lack of consideration of human rights (0%), the limited consideration of research (5%) and the lack of financial planning (28%) to successfully execute the plans. Of the documents obtained, 60% covered both mental health and substance abuse issues. This study contributes to the limited evidence base on health care strategy evaluations. Further research is needed to understand the potential impact of policy analysis. © The Author(s) 2017. Published by Oxford University Press in association with the International Society for Quality in Health Care. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com

Responding to non-communicable diseases in Zambia: a policy analysis.

PubMed

Mukanu, Mulenga M; Zulu, Joseph Mumba; Mweemba, Chrispin; Mutale, Wilbroad

2017-04-24

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are an emerging global health concern. Reports have shown that, in Zambia, NCDs are also an emerging problem and the government has begun initiating a policy response. The present study explores the policy response to NCDs by the Ministry of Health in Zambia using the policy triangle framework of Walt and Gilson. A qualitative approach was used for the study. Data collected through key informant interviews with stakeholders who were involved in the NCD health policy development process as well as review of key planning and policy documents were analysed using thematic analysis. The government's policy response was as a result of international strategies from WHO, evidence of increasing disease burden from NCDs and pressure from interest groups. The government developed the NCD strategic plan based on the WHO Global Action Plan for NCDs 2013-2030. Development of the NCD strategic plan was driven by the government through the Ministry of Health, who set the agenda and adopted the final document. Stakeholders participated in the fine tuning of the draft document from the Ministry of Health. The policy development process was lengthy and this affected consistency in composition of the stakeholders and policy development momentum. Lack of representative research evidence for some prioritised NCDs and use of generic targets and indicators resulted in the NCD strategic plan being inadequate for the Zambian context. The interventions in the strategic plan also underutilised the potential of preventing NCDs through health education. Recent government pronouncements were also seen to be conflicting the risk factor reduction strategies outlined in the NCD strategic plan. The content of the NCD strategic plan inadequately covered all the major NCDs in Zambia. Although contextual factors like international strategies and commitments are crucial catalysts to policy development, there is need for domestication of international guidelines and frameworks to match the disease burden, resources and capacities in the local context if policy measures are to be comprehensive, relevant and measurable. Such domestication should be guided by representative local research evidence.

DESC (Defense Electronics Supply Center) Total Quality Management Plan

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-04-01

Paoerwort Reduction Proodt(0704.01 ge. Washington. DC 20S03 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE Api598 . FUNDING NUMBERS DESC Total Quality Management Master Plan...OF PAGES TQM (Total Quality Management ), Continuous Process Improvement,_________ cTainingManagement 16. PRICE CODE 17. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION 18... QUALITY MANAGEMENT As you read the DESC Total Quality Management Plan, I ask each of you to make a commitment to continuously strive for improvement

Joining Forces: Preparing to Fight Coalition Air War

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-06-01

as a communications officer, he graduated from pilot training and was assigned to Dyess AFB, Texas, as a B-1 pilot. Following an operational...the reality of the deficiencies themselves. The deficiencies may require a reduction in global commitments, which might increase security risks...the Air Power Challenges of the Post -Cold War Era (Maxwell AFB, AL: Air University Press, 2011), 28. 13 Benjamin S. Lambeth, The Transformation of

Southeast Asia Report

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-04-20

Relief Work Fund, was aimed at giving work to unem- ployed Maori youth in the cities so they were gainfully employed . Police and Labor department...Mr Hawke, at Davos in Switzerland in which he called for: A COMMITMENT to halt farm sub- sidy increases. REDUCTION in the gap between in...general indicators include: • Growth in numbers employed of about 30,000 between August 1984 and August 1986. • Total unemployment, including those

The role of psychological flexibility in a self-help acceptance and commitment therapy intervention for psychological distress in a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Fledderus, Martine; Bohlmeijer, Ernst T; Fox, Jean-Paul; Schreurs, Karlein M G; Spinhoven, Philip

2013-03-01

This study examined the role of psychological flexibility, as a risk factor and as a process of change, in a self-help Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) intervention for adults with mild to moderate depression and anxiety. Participants were randomized to the self-help programme with e-mail support (n=250), or to a waiting list control group (n=126). All participants completed measures before and after the intervention to assess depression, anxiety and psychological flexibility. Participants in the experimental condition also completed these measures during the intervention (after three and six weeks) and at a three-month follow-up. With multilevel modelling, it was shown that the effects of the intervention on psychological distress were stronger for participants with higher levels of psychological flexibility. Furthermore, our study showed that improved psychological flexibility mediated the effects of the ACT intervention. With a cross-lagged panel design, it was shown that especially improvements in psychological flexibility in the last three sessions of the intervention were important for further reductions in anxiety. To conclude, our study showed the importance of targeting psychological flexibility during an ACT intervention for a reduction in depressive and anxiety symptoms. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Short Round Sub-Linear Zero-Knowledge Argument for Linear Algebraic Relations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seo, Jae Hong

Zero-knowledge arguments allows one party to prove that a statement is true, without leaking any other information than the truth of the statement. In many applications such as verifiable shuffle (as a practical application) and circuit satisfiability (as a theoretical application), zero-knowledge arguments for mathematical statements related to linear algebra are essentially used. Groth proposed (at CRYPTO 2009) an elegant methodology for zero-knowledge arguments for linear algebraic relations over finite fields. He obtained zero-knowledge arguments of the sub-linear size for linear algebra using reductions from linear algebraic relations to equations of the form z = x *' y, where x, y ∈ Fnp are committed vectors, z ∈ Fp is a committed element, and *' : Fnp × Fnp → Fp is a bilinear map. These reductions impose additional rounds on zero-knowledge arguments of the sub-linear size. The round complexity of interactive zero-knowledge arguments is an important measure along with communication and computational complexities. We focus on minimizing the round complexity of sub-linear zero-knowledge arguments for linear algebra. To reduce round complexity, we propose a general transformation from a t-round zero-knowledge argument, satisfying mild conditions, to a (t - 2)-round zero-knowledge argument; this transformation is of independent interest.

Energy Efficiency/Renewable Energy Programs in State Implementation Plans - Guidance Documents

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

final document that provides guidance to States and local areas on quantifying and including emission reductions from energy efficiency and renewable energy measures in State Implementation Plans (SIPS).

[A proposal of policies and interventions to reduce social inequalities in health in Spain.Commission to Reduce Social Inequalities in Health in Spain].

PubMed

2012-01-01

In November 2008, at the request of the Directorate General of Public Health of the Ministry of Health and Social Policy, the Commission to Reduce Social Inequalities in Health in Spain was established with a mandate to develop a proposal for interventions to reduce health inequalities. This article aims to present the work carried out and the documents prepared by the Commission. The Commission, consisting of 18 members, conducted a situational analysis of health inequalities and of the policies to reduce them, reviewed international documents and consulted 56 experts from distinct fields to develop a proposal for recommendations to reduce health inequalities. In May 2010, the Commission presented the document "Moving toward equity: a proposal for policies and interventions to reduce social inequalities in health in Spain". The document listed a total of 166 recommendations, divided into 14 areas and ordered by priority. These recommendations highlight that health inequalities cannot be reduced without a commitment to promote health and equity in all policies and to move toward a fairer society. Copyright © 2011 SESPAS. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

Long-term treatment and management of violent tendencies of men with intellectual disabilities convicted of assault.

PubMed

Lindsay, William R; Allan, Ronald; MacLeod, Fiona; Smart, Nicola; Smith, Anne H W

2003-02-01

Success of anger management treatment with individuals who have intellectual disabilities convicted of assault-related offenses has not been verified. We employed a single case design with repeated measures with 6 such men. Recidivism is reported at least 4.5 years and up to 10 years. Modified anger management training incorporating cognitive restructuring and arousal reduction was employed. Participants showed no uniform reductions in emotional or behavioral systems of anger and aggression. Although several retained significant anger feelings, there were reductions in the extent to which they would act in an aggressive fashion. Five have not re-offended; 1 re-offended within 6 months but not in the subsequent 4 years. Anger management treatment seems effective for men with intellectual disabilities in the community who have committed socially and legally unacceptable acts.

A cultural model of infidelity among African American and Puerto Rican young adults.

PubMed

Macauda, Mark M; Erickson, Pamela I; Singer, Merrill C; Santelices, Claudia C

2011-12-01

Having concurrent sexual partners is a risk factor for STIs and HIV/AIDS, yet few studies have investigated the cultural meanings and functions of concurrency. A multi-method qualitative/quantitative study of sexual ideas, attitudes, and behaviors among inner-city Puerto Rican and African American emergent adults (age 18-25) in Hartford, Connecticut, USA, suggests that having concurrent partners is common in this population. Using data from 12 focus groups and 40 participants in systematic data collection techniques (e.g., pile sorts), the underlying cognitive structure of concurrency and cheating/infidelity are explored. Results suggest that participants are less tolerant of multiple partners in more committed relationships, but that very few relationships can be considered committed. Furthermore, participants see cheating as inevitable even in committed relationships. Sexual transgressions are considered the most severe form of cheating. Having an outside partner for emotional reasons or to have access to one's child were seen as more acceptable/forgivable than doing so for sexual satisfaction, social status or material goods. Multiple partnerships must be seen in the context of the inner city where resources and opportunities are scarce and young adults attempt to protect themselves from emotional injury. Documenting new and changing social constructions of infidelity is important for understanding the social context of sexual behavior in our global world and for designing culturally appropriate health interventions.

Intending to stay: Positive images, attitudes, and classroom experiences as influences on students' intentions to persist in science and engineering majors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wyer, Mary Beth

2000-10-01

Contemporary research on persistence in undergraduate education in science and engineering has focused primarily on identifying the structural, social, and psychological barriers to participation by students in underrepresented groups. As a result, there is a wealth of data to document why students leave their majors, but there is little direct empirical data to support prevailing presumptions about why students stay. Moreover, researchers have used widely differing definitions and measures of persistence, and they have seldom explored field differences. This study compared three ways of measuring persistence. These constituted three criterion variables: commitment to major, degree aspirations, and commitment to a science/engineering career. The study emphasized social factors that encourage students to persist, including four predictor variables---(1) positive images of scientists/engineers, (2) positive attitudes toward gender and racial equality, (3) positive classroom experiences, and (4) high levels of social integration. In addition, because researchers have repeatedly documented the degree to which women are more likely than men to drop out of science and engineering majors, the study examined the potential impact of gender in relation to these predictor variables. A survey was administered in the classroom to a total of 285 students enrolled in a required course for either a biological sciences and or an engineering major. Predictor variables were developed from standard scales, including the Images of Science/Scientists Scale, the Attitudes toward Women Scale, the Women in Science Scale, and the Perceptions of Prejudice Scale. Based on logistic regression models, results indicate that positive images of scientists and engineers was significantly related to improving the odds of students having a high commitment to major, high degree aspirations, and high commitment to career. There was also evidence that positive attitudes toward gender and racial equality as well as positive classroom experiences improved the odds of students' having high degree aspirations. There was limited evidence to suggest the significance of gender in interaction with the predictor variables. There was tentative evidence that field differences may play a critical role in persistence. The study concludes on two points. The first is that gender may be a more important factor in explaining why some students leave their science and engineering majors than in explaining why others stay. The second is that research directed at improving diversity in science would benefit from discussion about the measures of persistence.

Using warnings to reduce categorical false memories in younger and older adults.

PubMed

Carmichael, Anna M; Gutchess, Angela H

2016-07-01

Warnings about memory errors can reduce their incidence, although past work has largely focused on associative memory errors. The current study sought to explore whether warnings could be tailored to specifically reduce false recall of categorical information in both younger and older populations. Before encoding word pairs designed to induce categorical false memories, half of the younger and older participants were warned to avoid committing these types of memory errors. Older adults who received a warning committed fewer categorical memory errors, as well as other types of semantic memory errors, than those who did not receive a warning. In contrast, young adults' memory errors did not differ for the warning versus no-warning groups. Our findings provide evidence for the effectiveness of warnings at reducing categorical memory errors in older adults, perhaps by supporting source monitoring, reduction in reliance on gist traces, or through effective metacognitive strategies.

Voluntary Mobile Source Programs: Crediting Innovation and Experimentation Brochure

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This EPA document provides guidance on Voluntary Mobile Source Emission Reduction Programs (VMEPs) that could be implemented and credited with emission reductions for State Implementation Plans (SIPs) related purposes.

RACT and Emission Reduction Credits Issues

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This document may be of assistance in applying the New Source Review (NSR) air permitting regulations including the Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) requirements. This document is part of the NSR Policy and Guidance Database. Some documents in the database are a scanned or retyped version of a paper photocopy of the original. Although we have taken considerable effort to quality assure the documents, some may contain typographical errors. Contact the office that issued the document if you need a copy of the original.

Mobile Emission Reduction Credits

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This document may be of assistance in applying the New Source Review (NSR) air permitting regulations including the Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) requirements. This document is part of the NSR Policy and Guidance Database. Some documents in the database are a scanned or retyped version of a paper photocopy of the original. Although we have taken considerable effort to quality assure the documents, some may contain typographical errors. Contact the office that issued the document if you need a copy of the original.

Talent management best practices: how exemplary health care organizations create value in a down economy.

PubMed

Groves, Kevin S

2011-01-01

: Difficult economic conditions and powerful workforce trends pose significant challenges to managing talent in health care organizations. Although robust research evidence supports the many benefits of maintaining a strong commitment to talent management practices despite these challenges, many organizations compound the problem by resorting to workforce reductions and limiting or eliminating investments in talent management. : This study examines how nationwide health care systems address these challenges through best practice talent management systems. Addressing important gaps in talent management theory and practice, this study develops a best practice model of talent management that is grounded in the contextual challenges facing health care practitioners. : Utilizing a qualitative case study that examined 15 nationwide health care systems, data were collected through semistructured interviews with 30 executives and document analysis of talent management program materials submitted by each organization. : Exemplary health care organizations employ a multiphased talent management system composed of six sequential phases and associated success factors that drive effective implementation. Based on these findings, a model of talent management best practices in health care organizations is presented. : Health care practitioners may utilize the best practice model to assess and enhance their respective talent management systems by establishing the business case for talent management, defining, identifying, and developing high-potential leaders, carefully communicating high-potential designations, and evaluating talent management outcomes.

An official American Thoracic Society/European Respiratory Society policy statement: disparities in respiratory health.

PubMed

Schraufnagel, Dean E; Blasi, Francesco; Kraft, Monica; Gaga, Mina; Finn, Patricia W; Rabe, Klaus F

2013-10-01

Health disparities, defined as a significant difference in health between populations, are more common for diseases of the respiratory system than for those of other organ systems, because of the environmental influence on breathing and the variation of the environment among different segments of the population. The lowest social groups are up to 14 times more likely to have respiratory diseases than are the highest. Tobacco smoke, air pollution, environmental exposures, and occupational hazards affect the lungs more than other organs, and occur disproportionately in ethnic minorities and those with lower socioeconomic status. Lack of access to quality health care contributes to disparities. The executive committees of the American Thoracic Society (ATS) and European Respiratory Society (ERS) established a writing committee to develop a policy on health disparities. The document was reviewed, edited, and approved by the full executive committees and boards of directors of the societies. This document expresses a policy to address health disparities by promoting scientific inquiry and training, disseminating medical information and best practices, and monitoring and advocating for public respiratory health. ERS and ATS have strong international commitments, and work with leaders from governments, academia, and organizations to address and reduce avoidable health inequalities. Their training initiatives improve the function of health care systems and health equality. Both the ATS and ERS support all aspects of this document, confer regularly, and act together when possible, but the activities to bring about change may vary because of the differences in the continents where the two organizations carry out most of their activities. The ATS and ERS pledge to frame their actions to reduce respiratory health disparities. The vision of the ATS and ERS is that all persons attain better and sustained respiratory health. They call on all their members and other societies to join in this commitment.

NSF-Sponsored Biological and Chemical Oceanography Data Management Office

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Allison, M. D.; Chandler, C. L.; Copley, N.; Galvarino, C.; Gegg, S. R.; Glover, D. M.; Groman, R. C.; Wiebe, P. H.; Work, T. T.; Biological; Chemical Oceanography Data Management Office

2010-12-01

Ocean biogeochemistry and marine ecosystem research projects are inherently interdisciplinary and benefit from improved access to well-documented data. Improved data sharing practices are important to the continued exploration of research themes that are a central focus of the ocean science community and are essential to interdisciplinary and international collaborations that address complex, global research themes. In 2006, the National Science Foundation Division of Ocean Sciences (NSF OCE) funded the Biological and Chemical Oceanography Data Management Office (BCO-DMO) to serve the data management requirements of scientific investigators funded by the National Science Foundation’s Biological and Chemical Oceanography Sections. BCO-DMO staff members work with investigators to manage marine biogeochemical, ecological, and oceanographic data and information developed in the course of scientific research. These valuable data sets are documented, stored, disseminated, and protected over short and intermediate time frames. One of the goals of the BCO-DMO is to facilitate regional, national, and international data and information exchange through improved data discovery, access, display, downloading, and interoperability. In May 2010, NSF released a statement to the effect that in October 2010, it is planning to require that all proposals include a data management plan in the form of a two-page supplementary document. The data management plan would be an element of the merit review process. NSF has long been committed to making data from NSF-funded research publicly available and the new policy will strengthen this commitment. BCO-DMO is poised to assist in creating the data management plans and in ultimately serving the data and information resulting from NSF OCE funded research. We will present an overview of the data management system capabilities including: geospatial and text-based data discovery and access systems; recent enhancements to data search tools; data export and download utilities; and strategic use of controlled vocabularies to facilitate data integration and improve interoperability.

Economic and demographic issues related to deployment of the Satellite Power System (SPS)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baldwin, T. E.; Hill, L. G.; Santini, D. J.; Stenehjem, E. J.

1978-01-01

Growth in energy consumption stimulated interest in exploitation of renewable sources of electric energy. One technology that was proposed is the Satellite Power System (SPS). Before committing the U.S. to such a large program, the Department of Energy and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration are jointly participating in an SPS Concept Development and Evaluation Program. This white paper on industrial and population relocation is part of the FY 78 preliminary evaluation of related socio-economic issues. Results of four preliminary assessment activities are documented.

The Responsibility to Protect: Intervention is Not Enough

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-05-23

regarding the implementation of R2P.27 Ban Ki- Moon , the UNSG replacing Kofi Anna in October 2006, challenged the UN General Assembly to turns its...commitments to R2P in the 2005 World Summit Outcomes from "words" into "deeds" in a speech given in Berlin in 2008.28 Ban Ki- Moon attempted to reconcile...the Summit Outcome document.30 As part of his efforts to provide a better framework for implementing R2P, Ban Ki- Moon proposed a related, but

[The Paduan School of Medicine: medicine and philosophy in the modern era].

PubMed

Rebollo, Regina Andrés

2010-06-01

This is a partial contribution to an understanding of the history of the reception and transmission of classical Hippocratic and Galenic texts in Italy's modern period. By examining rotuli and puncti of the School of Medicine of Padua University, which record the subjects and content taught in the period between 1500 and 1600, one can study the official curriculum of this famous school. Perusal of these documents shows the commitment of official medical training to tradition, especially with respect to Hippocrates, Galen, Avicenna and Aristotle.

Defense Drawdowns: Analysis with Implications

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-03-21

increment of budget and personnel reductions, shared evenly across the services.”135 By 1994, with training, readiness and quality of life his top defense...security, this Administration is committed to achieving the reforms in military life as well as the public support for our Armed Forces which will...strengths in technology that spawned our great industrial base and that have given us the quality of life we enjoy today. What if free people could

Investigating Background Pictures for Picture Gesture Authentication

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-06-01

computing , stating “Microsoft is committed to making sure that the technology within the agreement has a mobile-first focus, and we 2 expect to begin to...Budget, Paperwork Reduction Project (0704-0188) Washington DC 20503. 1. AGENCY USE ONLY (Leave Blank) 2. REPORT DATE 06-16-2017 3. REPORT TYPE AND...unlimited. 12b. DISTRIBUTION CODE 13. ABSTRACT (maximum 200 words) The military relies heavily on computer systems. Without a strong method of authentication

Electrocatalytic Alloys for CO2 Reduction.

PubMed

He, Jingfu; Johnson, Noah J J; Huang, Aoxue; Berlinguette, Curtis P

2018-01-10

Electrochemically reducing CO 2 using renewable energy is a contemporary global challenge that will only be met with electrocatalysts capable of efficiently converting CO 2 into fuels and chemicals with high selectivity. Although many different metals and morphologies have been tested for CO 2 electrocatalysis over the last several decades, relatively limited attention has been committed to the study of alloys for this application. Alloying is a promising method to tailor the geometric and electric environments of active sites. The parameter space for discovering new alloys for CO 2 electrocatalysis is particularly large because of the myriad products that can be formed during CO 2 reduction. In this Minireview, mixed-metal electrocatalyst compositions that have been evaluated for CO 2 reduction are summarized. A distillation of the structure-property relationships gleaned from this survey are intended to help in the construction of guidelines for discovering new classes of alloys for the CO 2 reduction reaction. © 2018 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Association Between Connecticut's Permit-to-Purchase Handgun Law and Homicides.

PubMed

Rudolph, Kara E; Stuart, Elizabeth A; Vernick, Jon S; Webster, Daniel W

2015-08-01

We sought to estimate the effect of Connecticut's implementation of a handgun permit-to-purchase law in October 1995 on subsequent homicides. Using the synthetic control method, we compared Connecticut's homicide rates after the law's implementation to rates we would have expected had the law not been implemented. To estimate the counterfactual, we used longitudinal data from a weighted combination of comparison states identified based on the ability of their prelaw homicide trends and covariates to predict prelaw homicide trends in Connecticut. We estimated that the law was associated with a 40% reduction in Connecticut's firearm homicide rates during the first 10 years that the law was in place. By contrast, there was no evidence for a reduction in nonfirearm homicides. Consistent with prior research, this study demonstrated that Connecticut's handgun permit-to-purchase law was associated with a subsequent reduction in homicide rates. As would be expected if the law drove the reduction, the policy's effects were only evident for homicides committed with firearms.

Artistic Tasks Outperform Nonartistic Tasks for Stress Reduction

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Abbott, Kayleigh A.; Shanahan, Matthew J.; Neufeld, Richard W. J.

2013-01-01

Art making has been documented as an effective stress reduction technique. In this between-subjects experimental study, possible mechanisms of stress reduction were examined in a sample of 52 university students randomly assigned to one of four conditions generated by factorially crossing Activity Type (artistic or nonartistic) with Coping…

Lexical Predictability During Natural Reading: Effects of Surprisal and Entropy Reduction.

PubMed

Lowder, Matthew W; Choi, Wonil; Ferreira, Fernanda; Henderson, John M

2018-06-01

What are the effects of word-by-word predictability on sentence processing times during the natural reading of a text? Although information complexity metrics such as surprisal and entropy reduction have been useful in addressing this question, these metrics tend to be estimated using computational language models, which require some degree of commitment to a particular theory of language processing. Taking a different approach, this study implemented a large-scale cumulative cloze task to collect word-by-word predictability data for 40 passages and compute surprisal and entropy reduction values in a theory-neutral manner. A separate group of participants read the same texts while their eye movements were recorded. Results showed that increases in surprisal and entropy reduction were both associated with increases in reading times. Furthermore, these effects did not depend on the global difficulty of the text. The findings suggest that surprisal and entropy reduction independently contribute to variation in reading times, as these metrics seem to capture different aspects of lexical predictability. Copyright © 2018 Cognitive Science Society, Inc.

Reductions in indoor black carbon concentrations from improved biomass stoves in rural India.

PubMed

Patange, Omkar S; Ramanathan, Nithya; Rehman, I H; Tripathi, Sachi Nand; Misra, Amit; Kar, Abhishek; Graham, Eric; Singh, Lokendra; Bahadur, Ranjit; Ramanathan, V

2015-04-07

Deployment of improved biomass burning cookstoves is recognized as a black carbon (BC) mitigation measure that has the potential to achieve health benefits and climate cobenefits. Yet, few field based studies document BC concentration reductions (and resulting human exposure) resulting from improved stove usage. In this paper, data are presented from 277 real-world cooking sessions collected during two field studies to document the impacts on indoor BC concentrations inside village kitchens as a result of switching from traditional stoves to improved forced draft (FD) stoves. Data collection utilized new low-cost cellphone methods to monitor BC, cooking duration, and fuel consumption. A cross sectional study recorded a reduction of 36% in BC during cooking sessions. An independent paired sample study demonstrated a statistically significant reduction of 40% in 24 h BC concentrations when traditional stoves were replaced with FD stoves. Reductions observed in these field studies differ from emission factor reductions (up to 99%) observed under controlled conditions in laboratory studies. Other nonstove sources (e.g., kerosene lamps, ambient concentrations) likely offset the reductions. Health exposure studies should utilize reductions determined by field measurements inside village kitchens, in conjunction with laboratory data, to assess the health impacts of new cooking technologies.

Awareness of Stress-Reduction Interventions on Work Attitudes: The Impact of Tenure and Staff Group in Australian Universities

PubMed Central

Pignata, Silvia; Winefield, Anthony H.; Provis, Chris; Boyd, Carolyn M.

2016-01-01

This study explored the impact of staff group role and length of organizational tenure in the relationship between the awareness of stress interventions (termed intervention awareness: IA) and the work-related attitudinal outcomes of university employees. A two-wave longitudinal study of a sample of 869 employees from 13 universities completed a psychosocial work factors and health questionnaire. Hierarchical regression analyses examined the contribution of staff role and different lengths of organizational tenure with IA and employees' reports of job satisfaction, affective organizational commitment, trust in senior management, and perceived procedural justice. Employees' length of tenure affected the relation between IA and work attitudes, and there were also differences between academic and non-academic staff groups. For non-academic employees, IA predicted job satisfaction, affective organizational commitment, trust in senior management, and perceived procedural justice. However, for academics, IA only predicted job satisfaction and trust which identifies a need to increase the visibility of organizational interventions. Across the tenure groups, IA predicted: (1) perceived procedural justice for employees with five or less years of tenure; (2) job satisfaction for employees with 0–19 years of tenure; (3) trust in senior management for employees with 6–19 years of tenure; and (4) affective organizational commitment for employees with a tenure length of 6–10 years. Employees working at the university for an intermediate period had the most positive perceptions of their organization in terms of IA, job satisfaction, trust in senior management, and affective organizational commitment, whereas employees with 20–38 years of tenure had the least positive perceptions. Results suggest that employees in the middle of their careers report the most positive perceptions of their university. The findings highlight the need to attend to contextual issues in organizational stress and wellbeing interventions and suggest that management may need to implement new strategies and/or promote existing stress-management and reduction strategies to academics, and employees whom are either new to the university or those who have been working for the organization for longer periods of time to ensure that they are aware of organizational strategies to promote employee wellbeing and morale within their work environments. PMID:27588011

Department of Energy - Oak Ridge Operations and URS - CH2M Oak Ridge LLC. Partnering Framework for the Cleanup of the East Tennessee Technology Park, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, USA - 12348

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

Schubert, Allen L.

2012-07-01

The cleanup and re-industrialization of the East Tennessee Technology Park (ETTP) hinges on a collaborative working relationship between the cleanup contractor and the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE)-Oak Ridge Office (ORO). A Partnering Framework document was signed on June 30, 2011, with an ultimate goal of completing the contract scope of work ahead of schedule and under budget. This partnering process was the first time that DOE and its contractor, jointly developed and signed such an agreement before the contractor assumed management responsibilities of the Site. A strong desire of both parties to utilize a partnering approach in the performancemore » of their respective responsibilities is evident. The Partnering Framework was modeled after a partnering process employed by the California Department of Transportation, Division of Construction. This partnering process has been used successfully by the California Department of Transportation and its major contractors for many years with great success. The partnering process used at ETTP was a phased approach. First, a Partnering Framework document was developed and signed June 30, 2011, by the Partnering Sponsors, the two leaders of the ETTP cleanup and re-industrialization project, the DOE-ORO Assistant Manager for Environmental Management and the contractor's President and Program Manager. In this way the partnering process could begin when the contactor assumed ETTP Site management responsibilities on August 1, 2011. The Partnering Framework then set the stage for the second phase of the partnering process which would be development of the Partnering Agreement and the kick-off of the first of a number of facilitated Partnering Workshops. Key elements of the Partnering Framework document include: (1) a statement of commitment which affirms the desire of both parties to work collaboratively toward the cleanup and re-industrialization of the ETTP Site; (2) a vision which describes both parties ultimate goal of safe, efficient cleanup, and (3) an implementation section which describes how the partnering process will be conducted, as well as how disputes will be managed. The signed Partnering Framework and Partnering Agreement provide the needed foundation of the safe and cost-effective cleanup and re-industrialization of the ETTP Site. The benefits of partnering have already been observed as the Partnering Teams effectively addressed a number of early contract and project challenges such as funding reductions and progress in resolving Material Differences. Based, in part of the successes achieved as a result of the partnering between UCOR and DOE-ORO, UCOR and DOE-ORO are extending this partnering approach to a number of the ETTP Site stakeholders. For example, DOE-ORO, UCOR and CROET signed a Partnering Agreement on November 3, 2011. This Partnering Agreement affirms the parties' commitment to work collaboratively to re-industrialize the ETTP Site. Both DOE-ORO and UCOR are looking to extend this partnering approach with other Site stakeholders such as its employees, its subcontractors, the Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the Y-12 Security Complex in the future. (authors)« less

How are countries dealing with their current cardio-vascular disease burden? A snapshot from the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR)

PubMed Central

In recent years, a number of global commitments have been made in the area of noncommunicable diseases (NCD). These include the UN NCD Political Declaration in 2011, and the UN Comprehensive Review on NCDs and Outcome Document in 2014. Nine global targets have been agreed in the area of NCDs, and NCDs have been addressed in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). Another UN high-level meeting will take place in September 2018 to assess country progress across the globe. At the regional level, a number of initiates have taken place to deliver on these global commitments. One of the guiding documents is the Regional Framework for Action on Noncommunicable Diseases. This framework was endorsed at the WHO EM Regional Committee in 2012, and includes 17 strategic interventions and 10 monitoring indicators, covering the areas of NCD governance, prevention, surveillance and healthcare. Progress is being monitored on an annual basis through the development of country progress factsheets and biennial WHO Country Capacity Survey on NCDs. To date however, progress has been insufficient and uneven. Moreover, is has been slowest in the areas of planning and surveillance, and tobacco control. No uniform approach or model exists for all EMR countries, but a number of countries have advanced their national NCD agenda through original and innovative initiatives. Perceived challenges include the uneven progress and needs across the WHO EM region, humanitarian emergencies and political instability, vertical approaches, a lack of human and financial resources and other health systems weaknesses. Opportunities however exist through the global SDG and universal health coverage (UHC) agendas offering an opportunity to revisit essential health services package until 2030. Overall, there has been political commitment to NCD governance, as evidenced by the EM Regional Committee’s endorsement of the regional framework for action. However, despite the clear roadmap, progress has been slow and scattered, differing vastly by country and by topic. We recommend that countries urgently scale up their efforts in all four areas of the EM Regional Framework of Action to be able to achieve their national and international targets. PMID:29644228

Importance Sampling Variance Reduction in GRESS ATMOSIM

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

Wakeford, Daniel Tyler

This document is intended to introduce the importance sampling method of variance reduction to a Geant4 user for application to neutral particle Monte Carlo transport through the atmosphere, as implemented in GRESS ATMOSIM.

76 FR 12965 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-03-09

... 6062 of the Deficit Reduction Act; Form No.: CMS-10232 (OMB : 0938-1045); Use: The Deficit Reduction... Operations and Regulatory Affairs, Division of Regulations Development, Attention: Document Identifier/OMB...

Guidance for Halon Emissions Reduction Rule (40 CFR Part 82, Subpart H)

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Document provides guidance for technicians on compliance with EPA's halon emission reduction rule (40 CFR 82, Subpart H). Guidance covers technician training requirements and proper halon disposal and recycling.

Desktop reference for crash reduction factors

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2007-09-01

This Desktop Reference documents the estimates of the crash reduction that might be expected if a specific countermeasure or group of countermeasures is implemented with respect to intersections, roadway departure and other non-intersection crashes, ...

The effectiveness of training acceptance / commitment and training emotion regulation on high-risk behaviors of students with dyscalculia.

PubMed

Narimani, Mohammad; Abbasi, Moslem; Abolghasemi, Abbas; Ahadi, Batoul

2013-09-01

Now a days the utilization of Acceptance / Commitment and Emotion Regulation Strategy as a comprehensive treatment plan has been discussed in both the prevention and the control of destructive and risky behaviors. Treatment based on Acceptance/Commitment and Emotion Regulation was effective in both the improvement and the control of high-risk behaviors of students with dyscalculia. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment, and Emotional Regulation training in high-risk behaviors of students with dyscalculia. This research was experimental, with pre-test, post-test and a control group. The statistical universe of this study included all sixth-grade male students in Ardabil city in the academic year of 2012-2013 (A.H.). The subjects of this study involved 800 sixth-grade elementary students in Ardabil province, selected using a multi-stage cluster sampling. From among them, 60 students with dyscalculia were selected using random sampling method after the initial diagnosis by structured clinical interview and the Keymath Mathematic test. Twenty pupil were selected for either the experimental or the control group. To collect data, the questionnaires of "Keymath Mathematic test" and High-risk Behavior" were used. The results of Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) showed that "Acceptance / Commitment and Emotion Regulation" treatment trainings were effective in reducing high-risk behaviors, in a manner that they led to a reduction in negative emotions, self-destructive and impulsive behaviors of students with math disorder (dyscalculia). It can be concluded that teaching these skills to the students has been influential in enhancing awareness level and change or positive attitude creation in the subjects. Therefore, it is essential to design and implement interventions based on "prevention caused by the peer group, in collaboration with the parents either at the school or at home among the family members".

Is the World in a State of Climate Change Planetary Emergency?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carter, Peter

2013-04-01

Leading climate change experts have made public statements that the world is beyond dangerous interference with the climate system, committed to a warming of 3-5°C, facing a risk of global climate catastrophe, and in a state of planetary emergency, but these conclusions are not informing climate change policy. The evidence for these statements is examined and presented in this paper. The main parameters considered are world food security and carbon feedback "runaway" or rapid global warming. 2012 was a record year for Arctic albedo loss, which amplifies Arctic warming and drives Arctic methane feedback emissions. Since 2007, atmospheric methane is experiencing a renewed, sustained increase due to feedback emissions. All potentially large positive Arctic feedbacks are operant. These include albedo loss from disappearing snow and summer sea ice; methane released from peatlands, thawing permafrost and sea floor methane hydrates; and nitrous oxide from cryoperturbed permafrost. Increasing extreme weather events have caused regional crop productivity losses on many continents since 2000. The loss of Arctic albedo might be driving extreme heat and drought in the northern hemisphere. Today the formal national pledges for emissions reductions filed with the UN, combined, commit humanity to a warming of 4.4°C (Climate Interactive) by 2100, which is more than 8°C eventually after 2100, and there are no initiatives to change this. The International Energy Agency warns that the current global economy is on track for a warming of 6°C by 2100. A simple yet novel summation approach of all unavoidable sources of warming estimates the committed unavoidable warming to be 3°C by 2100. What are the implications of these future commitments for world food security and the risk of runaway climate change? The paper considers how these commitments and the policy-relevant research findings can inform policy making with respect to an appropriate science-based mitigation response.

A new framework for integrated climate finance and inclusive responses to sustainable development in Malaysia

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

Ibrahim, Kamarulazizi; Shabudin, Ahmad Firdaus Ahmad; Chacko Koshy, Kanayathu

With Malaysia's commitment to both mitigation and adaptation, the 21st Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention for Climate Change in Paris, 2015, will be both an opportunity to showcase best practices and a forum to promote international ownership of climate challenge before it becomes a catastrophe. Our experience with weather extremes is that the best time to intervene is at the risk level via prevention and preparedness, compared to any wait-and-see approach. As the Honourable Prime Minister of Malaysia, Dato' Sri Mohd Najib Abdul Razak, elaborated during the recent 11th Malaysia Plan presentation to the parliament, ‘suchmore » an approach has to be seen as part of adopting green growth and increasing our commitment to long-term sustainability’. Malaysia is also aware that this requires policy support, technological interventions and financial commitment. It is for this reason the Malaysia's pledge at the Copenhagen COP-15 was to reduce its carbon emission by 40% from 2005 levels by 2020, subject to technology transfer and financial support by developed countries. Having achieved a 33% reduction in the last five years, Malaysia is convinced that it can reach the 40% target following an inclusive partnership framework for action.« less

Proponents of Creationism but not Proponents of Evolution Frame the Origins Debate in Terms of Proof

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barnes, Ralph M.; Church, Rebecca A.

2013-03-01

In Study 1, 72 internet documents containing creationism, ID (intelligent design), or evolution content were selected for analysis. All instances of proof cognates (the word "proof" and related terms such as "proven", "disproof", etc.) contained within these documents were identified and labeled in terms of the manner in which the terms were used. In Study 2, frequency counts for six terms (proof, evidence, establish, experiment, test, trial) were conducted on a sample of peer-reviewed research articles in the journal Science and the 72 internet documents included in Study 1. Quantitative and qualitative analyses revealed that proponents of creationism were much more likely than proponents of evolution to frame the creationism/evolution issue in terms of proof (ID proponents fell partway between the other two). Proponents of creationism frequently described empirical data favoring their position as proof of their position. Even more frequently, proponents of creationism described evolutionary scientists as being engaged in failed attempts to prove the truth of the evolutionary position. Evolution documents included fewer proof cognates than creationism or ID documents and the few proof cognates found in evolution documents were rarely used to describe the status of the theory of evolution. Qualitative data analysis indicated that proof cognates were often used to indicate certainty. The asymmetry between evolution and creationism documents was limited primarily to proof cognates; there were no major asymmetries for the terms evidence, establish, experiment, test, and trial. The results may reveal differences in the epistemological commitments of the involved parties.

Counting seizures: The primary outcome measure in epileptology from the patients' perspective.

PubMed

Blachut, Barbara; Hoppe, Christian; Surges, Rainer; Stahl, Jutta; Elger, Christian E; Helmstaedter, Christoph

2015-07-01

Patient-reported seizure counts represent a key outcome measure for individual treatments and clinical studies in epileptology. Video-EEG based research, however, demonstrated lack of validity due to underreporting. Here we examined the practice of keeping seizure diaries and the patients' attitudes toward seizure counting. Anticipating a low return rate, a comprehensive survey was mailed to 1100 adult outpatients. Besides methods and reasons to document or not to document seizures, the questionnaire addressed clinical, personality and sociodemographic characteristics as well as the subjective experience of seizures. Questionnaires from 170 patients (15%) could be included in our analysis. Patients estimated to be aware of 5.3 out of 10 daytime seizures (nocturnal seizures: 2.6) while they supposed that relatives/colleagues noticed 7.1 (nocturnal: 4.6). Almost two-thirds of the patients reported to keep a seizure diary with a self-estimated documentation rate of 8.7 out of 10 noticed daytime seizures (nocturnal: 7.7). Documenters and non-documenters showed only marginal group differences with regard to clinical, personality and sociodemographic characteristics. Importantly, patients were more committed to keep a seizure diary when they judged it to be relevant for clinical treatment decisions. Patients appear to know that they underreport seizures. According to their view, seizure unawareness as induced by seizures themselves seems to be a more important factor than omitting documentation of noticed seizures. Thus, the potential to improve the validity of seizure diaries of electronic devices which facilitate documenting noticed seizures appears limited. Copyright © 2015 British Epilepsy Association. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Scenarios for exercising technical approaches to verified nuclear reductions

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

Doyle, James

2010-01-01

Presidents Obama and Medvedev in April 2009 committed to a continuing process of step-by-step nuclear arms reductions beyond the new START treaty that was signed April 8, 2010 and to the eventual goal of a world free of nuclear weapons. In addition, the US Nuclear Posture review released April 6, 2010 commits the US to initiate a comprehensive national research and development program to support continued progress toward a world free of nuclear weapons, including expanded work on verification technologies and the development of transparency measures. It is impossible to predict the specific directions that US-RU nuclear arms reductions willmore » take over the 5-10 years. Additional bilateral treaties could be reached requiring effective verification as indicated by statements made by the Obama administration. There could also be transparency agreements or other initiatives (unilateral, bilateral or multilateral) that require monitoring with a standard of verification lower than formal arms control, but still needing to establish confidence to domestic, bilateral and multilateral audiences that declared actions are implemented. The US Nuclear Posture Review and other statements give some indication of the kinds of actions and declarations that may need to be confirmed in a bilateral or multilateral setting. Several new elements of the nuclear arsenals could be directly limited. For example, it is likely that both strategic and nonstrategic nuclear warheads (deployed and in storage), warhead components, and aggregate stocks of such items could be accountable under a future treaty or transparency agreement. In addition, new initiatives or agreements may require the verified dismantlement of a certain number of nuclear warheads over a specified time period. Eventually procedures for confirming the elimination of nuclear warheads, components and fissile materials from military stocks will need to be established. This paper is intended to provide useful background information for establishing a conceptual approach to a five-year technical program plan for research and development of nuclear arms reductions verification and transparency technologies and procedures.« less

Tackling air pollution and extreme climate changes in China: Implementing the Paris climate change agreement.

PubMed

Tambo, Ernest; Duo-Quan, Wang; Zhou, Xiao-Nong

2016-10-01

China still depends on coal for more than 60% of its power despite big investments in the process of shifting to nuclear, solar and wind power renewable energy resources alignment with Paris climate change agreement (Paris CCA). Chinese government through the Communist Party Central Committee (CPCC) ascribes great importance and commitment to Paris CCA legacy and history landmark implementation at all levels. As the world's biggest carbon dioxide emitter, China has embarked on "SMART" pollution and climate changes programs and measures to reduce coal-fired power plants to less than 50% in the next five years include: new China model of energy policies commitment on CO2 and greenhouse gas emissions reductions to less than 20% non-fossil energy use by 2030 without undermining their economic growth, newly introduced electric vehicles transportation benefits, interactive and sustained air quality index (AQI) monitoring systems, decreasing reliance on fossil fuel economic activities, revision of energy price reforms and renewable energy to less energy efficient technologies development. Furthermore, ongoing CPCC improved environmental initiatives, implemented strict regulations and penalties on local companies and firms' pollution production management, massive infrastructures such as highways to reduce CO2 expansion of seven regional emissions trading markets and programs for CO2 emissions and other pollutants are being documented. Maximizing on the centralized nature of the China's government, implemented Chinese pollution, climate changes mitigation and adaptation initiatives, "SMART" strategies and credible measures are promising. A good and practical example is the interactive and dynamic website and database covering 367 Chinese cities and providing real time information on environmental and pollution emissions AQI. Also, water quality index (WQI), radiation and nuclear safety monitoring and management systems over time and space. These are ongoing Chinese valuable and exemplary leadership in Paris CCA implementation to the global community. Especially to pragmatic and responsible efforts to support pollution and climate changes capacity development, technology transfer and empowerment in emissions surveillance and monitoring systems and "SMART" integrated climate changes mitigation packages in global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) context, citizenry health and wellbeing. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

18 CFR 388.101 - Scope.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... governing public notice of proceedings, publication of decisions, requests for informal advice from... responding to subpoenas seeking documents or testimony from Commission employees or former employees, fees for various requests for documents, and requests for reduction or waiver of these fees. ...

U.S. - Canada Air Quality Agreement Progress Reports

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Read reports that document the large reductions in sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide emissions that have been achieved from 1996 to 2014, along with the associated reductions in ecosystem acidification and improvement in air quality.

ORAC-DR -- integral field spectroscopy data reduction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Todd, Stephen

ORAC-DR is a general-purpose automatic data-reduction pipeline environment. This document describes its use to reduce integral field unit (IFU) data collected at the United Kingdom Infrared Telescope (UKIRT) with the UIST instrument.

Refurbishment of a Victorian terraced house for energy efficiency

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dimitriou, Angeliki

The impacts of global warming are now obvious. The international community has committed itself to reduce CO2 emissions, the main contributor to the greenhouse effect, both at international and national levels. In the Kyoto Protocol signed in 1997, countries have committed to reduce their greenhouse gases emissions below their 1990 levels by the period 2008-2012. The UK specifically should reduce those emissions by 12.5%. Format reason, the UK has introduced a package of policies, which promote not only the use of renewable energy resources, but most importantly the reduction in energy use, with energy efficiency. Refurbishment of existing houses has and will contribute to the reduction of energy consumption. A Victorian mid-terraced house was studied in this report, and different refurbishment measures were tested, using two software programmes: TAS and SAP. The targets were to achieve certain levels of thermal comfort, to comply with the Building Regulation for building thermal elements and to achieve a high SAP rating. Then, the cost of each measure was calculated and its CO2 emissions were compared. Heat losses were mainly through the walls and roof. Roof and mainly wall refurbishment measures reduce the heating loads the most. Ground floor insulation does not contribute to the reduction of the heating loads, on the contrary it has detrimental effect in summer, where the cooling effect coming from the ground is being reduced. Window replacement achieves a very good performance in summer resulting in the reduction of overheating. Wall and roof insulation increase the SAP rating the most, between the building elements, but boiler replacement and upgrading of heating controls increase it more. According to the SAP rating, CO2 annual emissions are reduced the most by boiler replacement and then by wall and roof. The results given by the two softwares concerning which measure is more leads more to energy efficiency, are the same. Finally, if the measures which lead to the best energy performance are combined together, then the house could cut its energy bills by half, and could have 70% reduction in CO2 emissions.

Brief interventions to reduce Ecstasy use: a multi-site randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Norberg, Melissa M; Hides, Leanne; Olivier, Jake; Khawar, Laila; McKetin, Rebecca; Copeland, Jan

2014-11-01

Studies examining the ability of motivational enhancement therapy (MET) to augment education provision among ecstasy users have produced mixed results and none have examined whether treatment fidelity was related to ecstasy use outcomes. The primary objectives of this multi-site, parallel, two-group randomized controlled trial were to determine if a single-session of MET could instill greater commitment to change and reduce ecstasy use and related problems more so than an education-only intervention and whether MET sessions delivered with higher treatment fidelity are associated with better outcomes. The secondary objective was to assess participants' satisfaction with their assigned interventions. Participants (N=174; Mage=23.62) at two Australian universities were allocated randomly to receive a 15-minute educational session on ecstasy use (n=85) or a 50-minute session of MET that included an educational component (n=89). Primary outcomes were assessed at baseline, and then at 4-, 16-, and 24-weeks postbaseline, while the secondary outcome measure was assessed 4-weeks postbaseline by researchers blind to treatment allocation. Overall, the treatment fidelity was acceptable to good in the MET condition. There were no statistical differences at follow-up between the groups on the primary outcomes of ecstasy use, ecstasy-related problems, and commitment to change. Both intervention groups reported a 50% reduction in their ecstasy use and a 20% reduction in the severity of their ecstasy-related problems at the 24-week follow up. Commitment to change slightly improved for both groups (9%-17%). Despite the lack of between-group statistical differences on primary outcomes, participants who received a single session of MET were slightly more satisfied with their intervention than those who received education only. MI fidelity was not associated with ecstasy use outcomes. Given these findings, future research should focus on examining mechanisms of change. Such work may suggest new methods for enhancing outcomes. Australia and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry: ACTRN12611000136909. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Dynamic reduction of dimensions of a document vector in a document search and retrieval system

DOEpatents

Jiao, Yu; Potok, Thomas E.

2011-05-03

The method and system of the invention involves processing each new document (20) coming into the system into a document vector (16), and creating a document vector with reduced dimensionality (17) for comparison with the data model (15) without recomputing the data model (15). These operations are carried out by a first computer (11) while a second computer (12) updates the data model (18), which can be comprised of an initial large group of documents (19) and is premised on the computing an initial data model (13, 14, 15) to provide a reference point for determining document vectors from documents processed from the data stream (20).

Reduction in Force. School Management Advisor, Issue 24.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

North Carolina State Dept. of Public Instruction, Raleigh.

This document examines the legal requirements for the reduction in force (RIF) of North Carolina Department of Public Instruction employees, with a focus on certified (instructional) staff. A question-and-answer section discusses areas of concern to administrators about the reduction-in-force process. North Carolina State law relating to the RIF…

Formation of Green Rust and Immobilization of Nickel in Response to Bacterial Reduction of Hydrous Ferric Oxide

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

Parmar, N.; Gorby, Yuri A.; Beveridge, Terrance J.

This investigation documents the formation of Green Rust (GR) and immobilization of Ni2+ in response to bacterial reduction of hydrous ferric oxide (HFO) reduction experiments provided evidence that the solid-phase partitioning of Ni2+ in GR extended from equilibrium solid-solution behavior.

The Importance of Audience and Agency for Representation: A Case Study of an Urban Youth Media Community.

PubMed

Charmaraman, Linda

2010-01-01

PURPOSE: Urban youths' agency to represent their realities through media has been largely unexplored in the youth development literature. In this qualitative case study of an after-school youth media program in the Bay Area, expressions of youth agency and the role of audiences are explored during the process of producing videos for public consumption. METHODOLOGY: As participant observer of 14 ethnically diverse youth participants aged between 15 and 18 years over 18 months, I documented (a) the kind of agencies participants engaged in and (b) the impact of live and imagined future audiences on youths' creative processes. Analyses of field notes, semi-structured interviews, and media projects were conducted using thematic analysis to inductively generate emerging categories. FINDINGS: Themes included an agentive sense of self-efficacy, commitment, and responsibility, as well as perceived contributions to local audiences and an emerging collective identity. The youth demonstrated their increased sense of a social or civic duty to realistically represent youth of color to familiar and unfamiliar audiences. IMPLICATIONS: This case study demonstrated how one youth media organization fostered agency through youth authorship, production, distribution, and local community dialogue. By documenting the impact of audiences from conception to public reception, this study provides valuable insight into the agentive process of publicly "performing" a commitment to complete a social change video project. CONTRIBUTION: This chapter underscores the value of performance within youth development programs and the critical component of audiences as one form of authentic assessment in order to foster individual and collective agency.

The Importance of Audience and Agency for Representation: A Case Study of an Urban Youth Media Community

PubMed Central

Charmaraman, Linda

2010-01-01

Purpose Urban youths' agency to represent their realities through media has been largely unexplored in the youth development literature. In this qualitative case study of an after-school youth media program in the Bay Area, expressions of youth agency and the role of audiences are explored during the process of producing videos for public consumption. Methodology As participant observer of 14 ethnically diverse youth participants aged between 15 and 18 years over 18 months, I documented (a) the kind of agencies participants engaged in and (b) the impact of live and imagined future audiences on youths' creative processes. Analyses of field notes, semi-structured interviews, and media projects were conducted using thematic analysis to inductively generate emerging categories. Findings Themes included an agentive sense of self-efficacy, commitment, and responsibility, as well as perceived contributions to local audiences and an emerging collective identity. The youth demonstrated their increased sense of a social or civic duty to realistically represent youth of color to familiar and unfamiliar audiences. Implications This case study demonstrated how one youth media organization fostered agency through youth authorship, production, distribution, and local community dialogue. By documenting the impact of audiences from conception to public reception, this study provides valuable insight into the agentive process of publicly “performing” a commitment to complete a social change video project. Contribution This chapter underscores the value of performance within youth development programs and the critical component of audiences as one form of authentic assessment in order to foster individual and collective agency. PMID:20671812

Documenting the doable and doing the documented: bridging strategies at the UK Stem Cell Bank.

PubMed

Stephens, Neil; Atkinson, Paul; Glasner, Peter

2011-12-01

We explore the local negotiation of regulatory practice at the UK Stem Cell Bank, the first Bank of its type in the world. Basing our empirical work on a detailed analysis of one aspect of the Bank's regulatory commitment--the completion of the Cell Line Information form--we make visible the necessary judgements and labour involved in interpreting and operationalizing externally imposed regulation. The discussion opens by detailing the problems encountered when the Bank completes the form: reconciling a bureaucratic system of accountability with craft-like laboratory skills involving multiple kinds of tacit knowledge. We follow this by explicating the emergent 'bridging strategies' pursued by the Bank to address these issues, highlighting their reliance upon the formation of trust and social networks. The closing discussion emphasizes the contingent assembly of regulatory practices that emerge in the local setting.

British American Tobacco’s failure in Turkey

PubMed Central

Lawrence, S

2009-01-01

Background and objectives Transnational tobacco companies (TTCs) considered Turkey an important, potential investment market because of its high consumption rates and domestic commitment to tobacco. This paper outlines how British American Tobacco (BAT) attempted to establish a joint venture with the government monopoly TEKEL, while waiting for privatisation and a private tender. Methods Analysis of tobacco industry documents from the Guildford Depository and online tobacco document sources. Results BAT failed to establish a market share in Turkey until 2000 despite repeated attempts to form a joint venture with Turkey’s tobacco monopoly, TEKEL, once the market liberalised in the mid 1980s. Conclusions BAT’s failure in the Turkish market was due to a misguided investment strategy focused solely on acquiring TEKEL and is contrasted with Philip Morris success in Turkey despite both TTCs working within Turkey’s unstable and corrupt investing climate. PMID:18845622

The professional profile of UFBA nursing management graduate students.

PubMed

Paiva, Mirian Santos; Coelho, Edméia de Almeida Cardoso; Nascimento, Enilda Rosendo do; Melo, Cristina Maria Meira de; Fernandes, Josicelia Dumêt; Santos, Ninalva de Andrade

2011-12-01

The objective of the present study was to analyze the professional profile of the nursing graduate students of Federal University of Bahia, more specifically of the nursing management area. This descriptive, exploratory study was performed using documental research. The data was collected from the graduates' curriculum on the Lattes Platform and from the graduate program documents, using a form. The study population consisted of graduates enrolled under the line of research The Organization and Evaluation of Health Care Systems, who developed dissertations/theses addressing Nursing/Health Management. The data were stored using Microsoft Excel, and then transferred to the STATA 9.0 statistical software. Results showed that most graduates are women, originally from the State of Bahia, and had completed the course between 2000 and 2011; faculty of public institutions who continued involved in academic work after completing the course. These results point at the program as an academic environment committed to preparing researchers.

Use of Banked ERC's as Both External Offsets and Reasonable Further Progress Reductions

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This document may be of assistance in applying the New Source Review (NSR) air permitting regulations including the Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) requirements. This document is part of the NSR Policy and Guidance Database. Some documents in the database are a scanned or retyped version of a paper photocopy of the original. Although we have taken considerable effort to quality assure the documents, some may contain typographical errors. Contact the office that issued the document if you need a copy of the original.

Clarification of Statement of a Memorandum Entitled Crediting of MACT Emission Reductions for NSR Netting and Offsets

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This document may be of assistance in applying the New Source Review (NSR) air permitting regulations including the Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) requirements. This document is part of the NSR Policy and Guidance Database. Some documents in the database are a scanned or retyped version of a paper photocopy of the original. Although we have taken considerable effort to quality assure the documents, some may contain typographical errors. Contact the office that issued the document if you need a copy of the original.

January 2004 Guidance on Using Locomotive and Truck Idling Emission Reductions for Offsets

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This document may be of assistance in applying the New Source Review (NSR) air permitting regulations including the Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) requirements. This document is part of the NSR Policy and Guidance Database. Some documents in the database are a scanned or retyped version of a paper photocopy of the original. Although we have taken considerable effort to quality assure the documents, some may contain typographical errors. Contact the office that issued the document if you need a copy of the original.

Single-arm trial of the second version of an acceptance & commitment therapy smartphone application for smoking cessation.

PubMed

Bricker, Jonathan B; Copeland, Wade; Mull, Kristin E; Zeng, Emily Y; Watson, Noreen L; Akioka, Katrina J; Heffner, Jaimee L

2017-01-01

The first randomized trial of a smartphone application (app) for adult smoking cessation (SmartQuit 1.0) revealed key features that predict cessation. These findings guided the revision of this Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT)-based application (SmartQuit 2.0), which was primarily tested to examine participant receptivity, short-term cessation and reduction, and the relationship between program completion, smoking cessation and reduction. Secondarily, outcomes were descriptively compared with the SmartQuit1.0 trial. Adult participants (78% female, 25% with high school or less education, 30% unemployed) were recruited into the single-arm pilot trial (N=99) of SmartQuit 2.0 with a two-month follow-up (85% retention). Regarding receptivity, 84% of participants were satisfied with SmartQuit 2.0 (vs. 59% for SmartQuit1.0), 73% would recommend it to a friend (vs. 48% for SmartQuit1.0), 81% found the ACT exercises useful for quitting (vs. 44% for SmartQuit1.0). At the 2-month follow-up, the quit rates were 21% for 7-day point prevalence (vs. 23% for SmartQuit1.0), 11% for 30-day point prevalence (vs. 13% for SmartQuit1.0), and 75% of participants reduced their smoking frequency (vs. 57% for SmartQuit1.0). Among program completers (24% of total sample), the quit rates were 33% for 7-day point prevalence, 28% for 30-day point prevalence, and 88% of participants reduced their smoking frequency. The revised app had high user receptivity, modest quit rates, and high smoking reduction rates. Program completion may be key to boosting the app's effectiveness. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

The Cost of a Military Person-Year. A Method for Computing Savings from Force Reductions

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-01-01

personnel FASAB Federal Accounting Standards Advisory Board FASB Financial Accounting Standards Board FERS Federal Employee Retirement System FG federal...an average prescribed SMCR of only $61,393, which is clearly problematic: Using the Comptroller’s own methods as mandated by DoD financial man... financial commitment the Figure 4.2 Probability-Adjusted Present Values of Retirement Benefits for Current Members by YOS RAND MG598-4.2 1,400 $ th o u

Preliminary Investigation of Workplace-Provided Compressed Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction with Pediatric Medical Social Workers.

PubMed

Trowbridge, Kelly; Mische Lawson, Lisa; Andrews, Stephanie; Pecora, Jodi; Boyd, Sabra

2017-11-01

Mindfulness practices, including mindfulness meditation, show promise for decreasing stress among health care providers. This exploratory study investigates the feasibility of a two-day compressed mindfulness-based stress reduction (cMBSR) course provided in the hospital workplace with pediatric health care social workers. The standard course of Jon Kabat-Zinn's MBSR requires a participant commitment to eight weeks of instruction consisting of one 2.5-hour-per-week class, a single day retreat, and 45 minutes of practice for six of seven days each week. Commitments to family, work, caregiving, education, and so on, as well as limitations such as distance, may prevent health care providers from participating in a standard MBSR course. Using t tests, researchers measured the effect of cMBSR on (a) positive and negative experiences in pediatric social work, (b) perceived stress, (c) mindfulness, and (d) caring self-efficacy (as a component of patient- and family-centered care). Results included significant differences between the pre- and post-intervention outcome variables on the Professional Quality of Life Secondary Traumatic Stress subscale, the Mindful Attention and Awareness Scale, and the Caring Efficacy Scale. Findings found adequate evidence for the feasibility of cMBSR design and for a need of a more rigorous study of the effects of the cMBSR intervention. © 2017 National Association of Social Workers.

Improvements in Depression and Mental Health After Acceptance and Commitment Therapy are Related to Changes in Defusion and Values-Based Action.

PubMed

Bramwell, Kate; Richardson, Thomas

2018-01-01

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) has been found to be effective for various mental health disorders but the processes through which it affects change remain unclear. Much process research in the area is on physical rather than mental health, and focuses on the broad concept of psychological flexibility with little research on specific mechanisms identified in theory such as fusion and values. This study explored whether there was a relationship between two of the main ACT processes (cognitive defusion and values) and levels of depression and distress. Thirty-three participants completed questionnaires at the start and end of their treatment measuring general mental health and distress, depression, levels of cognitive fusion and how much they were living in line with their values and how important their values were to them. Results showed reductions in levels of fusion and increases in values-based action were significantly related to reductions in distress and depression. There was no correlation between changes in values importance and changes in distress or depression. This study therefore suggests decreased defusion and increased values-based action is an important mechanism in the efficacy of ACT in those with depression and mental health problems. The study is however limited by a small sample size and future research with a sample large enough for mediation analysis would be beneficial.

Basis and Purpose Document for the proposed NESHAP for Pharmaceuticals Production

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

The Basis and Purpose Document provides background information on, and the rationale for, decisions made by EPA related to the proposed standards for the reduction of hazardous air pollutants (HAP) emitted through the manufacture of pharmaceutical products

Atlanta congestion reduction demonstration : national evaluation report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-03-01

This document presents the final report on the national evaluation of the Atlanta Congestion Reduction Demonstration (CRD) under the United States Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT) CRD Program. The Atlanta CRD projects focus on reducing congest...

ORAC-DR -- SCUBA-2 Pipeline Data Reduction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gibb, Andrew G.; Jenness, Tim

The ORAC-DR data reduction pipeline is designed to reduce data from many different instruments. This document describes how to use ORAC-DR to process data taken with the SCUBA-2 instrument on the James Clerk Maxwell Telescope.

Development of a data reduction expert assistant

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miller, Glenn E.

1994-01-01

This report documents the development and deployment of the Data Reduction Expert Assistant (DRACO). The system was successfully applied to two astronomical research projects. The first was the removal of cosmic ray artifacts from Hubble Space Telescope (HST) Wide Field Planetary Camera data. The second was the reduction and calibration of low-dispersion CCD spectra taken from a ground-based telescope. This has validated our basic approach and demonstrated the applicability of this technology. This work has been made available to the scientific community in two ways. First, we have published the work in the scientific literature and presented papers at relevant conferences. Secondly, we have made the entire system (including documentation and source code) available to the community via the World Wide Web.

Tobacco-Control Policies in Tobacco-Growing States: Where Tobacco Was King

PubMed Central

Fallin, Amanda; Glantz, Stanton A

2015-01-01

Context The 5 major tobacco-growing states (Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia) are disproportionately affected by the tobacco epidemic, with higher rates of smoking and smoking-induced disease. These states also have fewer smoke-free laws and lower tobacco taxes, 2 evidence-based policies that reduce tobacco use. Historically, the tobacco farmers and hospitality associations allied with the tobacco companies to oppose these policies. Methods This research is based on 5 detailed case studies of these states, which included key informant interviews, previously secret tobacco industry documents (available at http://legacy.library.ucsf.edu), and media articles. This was supplemented with additional tobacco document and media searches specifically for this article. Findings The tobacco companies were particularly concerned about blocking tobacco-control policies in the tobacco-growing states by promoting a pro-tobacco culture, beginning in the late 1960s. Nevertheless, since 2003, there has been rapid progress in the tobacco-growing states’ passage of smoke-free laws. This progress came after the alliance between the tobacco companies and the tobacco farmers fractured and hospitality organizations stopped opposing smoke-free laws. In addition, infrastructure built by National Cancer Institute research projects (COMMIT and ASSIST) led to long-standing tobacco-control coalitions that capitalized on these changes. Although tobacco production has dramatically fallen in these states, pro-tobacco sentiment still hinders tobacco-control policies in the major tobacco-growing states. Conclusions The environment has changed in the tobacco-growing states, following a fracture of the alliance between the tobacco companies and their former allies (tobacco growers and hospitality organizations). To continue this progress, health advocates should educate the public and policymakers on the changing reality in the tobacco-growing states, notably the great reduction in the number of tobacco farmers as well as in the volume of tobacco produced. PMID:26044632

Poverty reduction by improving health and social services in Vietnam.

PubMed

Gien, Lan; Taylor, Sharon; Barter, Ken; Tiep, Nguyen; Mai, Bui X; Lan, Nguyen T

2007-12-01

This article describes the development and implementation of a five-year plan for the reduction of poverty and the enhancement of human development through improving public health and social services in rural Vietnam. This plan was achieved by training the trainers and building capacity for the social workers. The project was a collaborative effort between the Schools of Nursing and Social Work at Memorial University, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada and the University of Labor and Social Affairs, Hanoi, Vietnam. The collaboration was also committed to improving the quality of social work education and training in Vietnam. All the project's objectives were achieved beyond original expectations. The actual outcomes are sustainable and in addition gender equality has been a cross-cutting theme.

Strategic alliance between the infectious diseases specialist and intensive care unit physician for change in antibiotic use.

PubMed

Curcio, D; Belloni, R

2005-02-01

There is a general consensus that antimicrobial use in intensive care units (ICU) is greater than that in general wards. By implementing a strategy of systematic infectious disease consultations in agreement with the ICU chief, we have modified the antibiotic prescription habits of the ICU physician. A reduction was observed in the use of selected antibiotics (third-generation cephalosporins, vancomycin, carbapenems and piperacillin-tazobactam), with a significant reduction in the length of hospital stay for ICU patients and lower antibiotic costs without negative impact on patient mortality. Leadership by the infectious diseases consultant in combination with commitment by ICU physicians is a simple and effective method to change antibiotic prescription habits in the ICU.

Global biodiversity: indicators of recent declines

USGS Publications Warehouse

Butchart, Stuart H.M.; Walpole, Matt; Collen, Ben; Van Strien, Arco; Scharlemann, Jorn P.W.; Almond, Rosamunde E.A.; Baillie, Jonathan E.M.; Bomhard, Bastian; Brown, Claire; Bruno, John; Carpenter, Kent E.; Carr, Genevieve M.; Chanson, Janice; Chenery, Anna M.; Csirke, Jorge; Davidson, Nick C.; Dentener, Frank; Foster, Matt; Galli, Alessandro; Galloway, James N.; Genovesi, Piero; Gregory, Richard D.; Hockings, Marc; Kapos, Valerie; Lamarque, Jean-Francois; Leverington, Fiona; Loh, Jonathan; McGeoch, Melodie A.; McRae, Louise; Minasyan, Anahit; Morcillo, Monica Hernandez; Oldfield, Thomasina E.E.; Pauly, Daniel; Quader, Suhel; Revenga, Carmen; Sauer, John R.; Skolnik, Benjamin; Spear, Dian; Stanwell-Smith, Damon; Stuart, Simon N.; Symes, Andy; Tierney, Megan; Tyrrell, Tristan D.; Vie, Jean-Christophe; Watson, Reg

2011-01-01

In 2002, world leaders committed, through the Convention on Biological Diversity, to achieve a significant reduction in the rate of biodiversity loss by 2010. We compiled 31 indicators to report on progress toward this target. Most indicators of the state of biodiversity (covering species' population trends, extinction risk, habitat extent and condition, and community composition) showed declines, with no significant recent reductions in rate, whereas indicators of pressures on biodiversity (including resource consumption, invasive alien species, nitrogen pollution, overexploitation, and climate change impacts) showed increases. Despite some local successes and increasing responses (including extent and biodiversity coverage of protected areas, sustainable forest management, policy responses to invasive alien species, and biodiversity-related aid), the rate of biodiversity loss does not appear to be slowing.

[The dangers and drifts of health McDonaldization].

PubMed

Cembrani, Fabio

2016-01-01

The author reflects on the healthcare crisis, starting from globalization and liquid-modern society, with its systemic contradictions. The health care system is influenced by McDonald's success and its philosophy: efficiency, productivity, cost reduction, procedural standardization and control. This article underlines the deficiencies and manipulations in the health care system. The profit-oriented economic model is successful due to lack of attention to product quality from the globalised and hyper-consumerist society. Italian legislation has regulated the standardization in healthcare procedure, aiming at cost reduction of defensive medicine. It has been underlined that it defines actions, nevertheless human activity is mainly realized through language, gesture and creation. A new anthropological model is proposed, based on commitment and distributive justice.

Economic Benefits, Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Emissions Reductions, and Water Conservation Benefits from 1,000 Megawatts (MW) of New Wind Power in Maine (Fact Sheet)

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

Not Available

2008-10-01

The U.S. Department of Energy?s Wind Powering America Program is committed to educating state-level policymakers and other stakeholders about the economic, CO2 emissions, and water conservation impacts of wind power. This analysis highlights the expected impacts of 1000 MW of wind power in Maine. Although construction and operation of 1000 MW of wind power is a significant effort, six states have already reached the 1000-MW mark. We forecast the cumulative economic benefits from 1000 MW of development in Maine to be $1.3 billion, annual CO2 reductions are estimated at 2.8 million tons, and annual water savings are 1,387 million gallons.

Economic Benefits, Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Emissions Reductions, and Water Conservation Benefits from 1,000 Megawatts (MW) of New Wind Power in Wisconsin (Fact Sheet)

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

Not Available

2008-10-01

The U.S. Department of Energy?s Wind Powering America Program is committed to educating state-level policymakers and other stakeholders about the economic, CO2 emissions, and water conservation impacts of wind power. This analysis highlights the expected impacts of 1000 MW of wind power in Wisconsin. Although construction and operation of 1000 MW of wind power is a significant effort, six states have already reached the 1000-MW mark. We forecast the cumulative economic benefits from 1000 MW of development in Wisconsin to be $1.1 billion, annual CO2 reductions are estimated at 3.2 million tons, and annual water savings are 1,476 million gallons.

The end of measles and congenital rubella: an achievable dream?

PubMed

Adamo, G; Sturabotti, G; D'Andrea, E; Baccolini, V; Romano, F; Iannazzo, S; Marzuillo, C; Villari, P

2017-01-01

Despite substantial progress towards measles and rubella control, outbreaks continue to threaten elimination goals worldwide. This paper aims to document progress towards the global eradication of measles and rubella. In particular, it investigates the major challenges faced by Italy in reaching the elimination goals. A review of the most important literature was carried out. Furthermore, a systematic review of the scientific literature on measles and rubella in the Italian setting was performed for the period 2000-2016. In the National Plan 2010-2015, Italy renewed its commitment to eliminate measles and rubella by 2015. However, Italy recently experienced a high measles burden (2,205 cases in 2013, 1,694 in 2014). Between June 2015 and May 2016, 515 cases were reported, accounting for 28% all cases in Europe. Immunization coverage decreased in recent years, with no Region reaching the 95% target. The systematic review included a total of 175 papers, with an upward trend in the number of published articles, which demonstrates an increasing interest in the field of measles and rubella. The review highlights the need to improve the commitment of the Italian Regions to the elimination goals; to promote Supplementary Immunization Activities (SIAs); to improve the communication skills of health care workers; to improve the health literacy of citizens; and to enhance integrated measles and rubella surveillance. Elimination of measles and rubella in Italy will require a substantial improvement in both commitment of the 21 Regions and activity of the whole country towards the WHO goals.

Commitment to sustainability: A content analysis of website for university organisations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hasim, M. S.; Hashim, A. E.; Ariff, N. R. M.; Sapeciay, Z.; Abdullah, A. S.

2018-02-01

This research aim on investigating the commitments of organisations towards sustainability. For this research context, ‘commitment’ refers to the extent of information provided by universities in their website which demonstrated initiatives towards achieving the sustainability goal. The objective of this study was to identify sustainability initiatives highlighted within university websites using Australia as a case study. Thirty-nine (39) websites were reviewed and web content analysis was performed to publicly available data including any relevant accessible PDF documents attached to the universities website. Specific websites information was reviewed to detect sustainability themes in the broad university management and operations (i.e., in general policies, corporate mission statements, research activities, positions available and strategies). The commitment of Australian universities was significant and well established with a set of twenty (20) related themes were identified. The findings have some limitations because the established themes only emerged from the websites’ content without human validation which possibly weakens the correlations between website information and organisations actual practice. This possibility is recognised and for this reason, further assessment may be advantageous to provide verification of the findings. Therefore, further studies using other techniques are suggested such as interviews or observations for validation of data and reinforce the entire conclusions. An interesting aspect of this study is the validity of reviewing organisational websites for gauging actual practice and a number of researchers supporting this approached as indicated in methodology section of this paper.

Changing the Food Environment: The French Experience12

PubMed Central

Chauliac, Michel; Hercberg, Serge

2012-01-01

The French National Nutrition and Health Program was launched in 2001. To achieve its objectives, 2 main preventive strategies were identified: 1) provide information and education to help individuals make healthy food and physical activity choices; and 2) improve the food and physical environment so that making healthy choices is easier. School regulations have been established to improve the nutritional quality of meals served to children and adolescents, and vending machines have been banned. Since 2007, companies in France’s food industry have had the option of signing the national government’s “Charte d'engagement volontaire de progrès nutritionnel” (charter of commitments to nutritional improvements) which aims to benefit all consumers. A standard reference document, developed by public authorities as the basis for decisions made by a committee of experts in the food industry, aims to validate the voluntary commitments made by companies to improve the nutrient content of the foods they produce. There is strict follow-up. A Food Quality Observatory was created in 2009 to monitor the nutrient quality of the food supply in France. Various results show the positive impact of these actions. PMID:22798000

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

Sarrack, A.G.

The purpose of this report is to document fault tree analyses which have been completed for the Defense Waste Processing Facility (DWPF) safety analysis. Logic models for equipment failures and human error combinations that could lead to flammable gas explosions in various process tanks, or failure of critical support systems were developed for internal initiating events and for earthquakes. These fault trees provide frequency estimates for support systems failures and accidents that could lead to radioactive and hazardous chemical releases both on-site and off-site. Top event frequency results from these fault trees will be used in further APET analyses tomore » calculate accident risk associated with DWPF facility operations. This report lists and explains important underlying assumptions, provides references for failure data sources, and briefly describes the fault tree method used. Specific commitments from DWPF to provide new procedural/administrative controls or system design changes are listed in the ''Facility Commitments'' section. The purpose of the ''Assumptions'' section is to clarify the basis for fault tree modeling, and is not necessarily a list of items required to be protected by Technical Safety Requirements (TSRs).« less

The role of network bridging organisations in compensation payments for agri-environmental services under the EU Common Agricultural Policy.

PubMed

Dedeurwaerdere, Tom; Polard, Audrey; Melindi-Ghidi, Paolo

2015-11-01

Compensation payments to farmers for the provision of agri-environmental services are a well-established policy scheme under the EU Common Agricultural Policy. However, in spite of the success in most EU countries in the uptake of the programme by farmers, the impact of the scheme on the long term commitment of farmers to change their practices remains poorly documented. To explore this issue, this paper presents the results of structured field interviews and a quantitative survey in the Walloon Region of Belgium. The main finding of this study is that farmers who have periodic contacts with network bridging organisations that foster cooperation and social learning in the agri-environmental landscapes show a higher commitment to change. This effect is observed both for farmers with high and low concern for biodiversity depletion. Support for network bridging organisations is foreseen under the EU Leader programme and the EU regulation 1306/2013, which could open-up interesting opportunities for enhancing the effectiveness of the current payment scheme for agri-environmental services.

A framework for assessing discretionary corporate performance towards the environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Labatt, Sonia

1991-03-01

This article reviews the existing models of corporate social responsiveness and develops a theoretical framework with which to examine corporations' discretionary performance with respect to one social issue, that of the environment. Discretionary indicators of corporate response to environmental issues are developed and tested within this framework. Twelve companies from five different sectors were selected for the survey, based on prior knowledge of their commitment to environmental concerns. Primary data was collected from personal interviews, and secondary data was obtained from company documents, annual reports, and other forms of publically disclosed information. Empirical results varied, but certain voluntary indicators, such as composition of the board of directors, the environmental affairs function, community support, and the annual report are considered to provide strong indications of discretionary corporate performance. Philanthropy and company products proved to be less satisfactory indicators of corporate commitment to the environment. The aggregated results revealed a correlation between the final rankings of firms' discretionary environmental performance and whether those companies are process or product oriented. Linkages between discretionary elements and those of economic and legal requirements were not explored.

Changing the food environment: the French experience.

PubMed

Chauliac, Michel; Hercberg, Serge

2012-07-01

The French National Nutrition and Health Program was launched in 2001. To achieve its objectives, 2 main preventive strategies were identified: 1) provide information and education to help individuals make healthy food and physical activity choices; and 2) improve the food and physical environment so that making healthy choices is easier. School regulations have been established to improve the nutritional quality of meals served to children and adolescents, and vending machines have been banned. Since 2007, companies in France's food industry have had the option of signing the national government's "Charte d'engagement volontaire de progrès nutritionnel" (charter of commitments to nutritional improvements) which aims to benefit all consumers. A standard reference document, developed by public authorities as the basis for decisions made by a committee of experts in the food industry, aims to validate the voluntary commitments made by companies to improve the nutrient content of the foods they produce. There is strict follow-up. A Food Quality Observatory was created in 2009 to monitor the nutrient quality of the food supply in France. Various results show the positive impact of these actions.

Capacities for the Risk Assessment of GMOs: Challenges to Build Sustainable Systems.

PubMed

Fernández Ríos, Danilo; Rubinstein, Clara; Vicién, Carmen

2018-01-01

The need for functional risk assessment bodies in general, and in the biosafety field in particular, demands continued efforts and commitment from regulatory agencies, if results that are sustainable in time are to be achieved. The lack of formal processes that ensure continuity in the application of state of the art scientific criteria, the high rotation in some cases or the lack of experienced professionals, in others, is a challenge to be addressed. Capacity building initiatives with different approaches and degrees of success have been implemented in many countries over the years, supported by diverse governmental and non-governmental organizations. This document summarizes some capacity building experiences in developing countries and concludes that risk assessors taking ownership and regulatory authorities fully committed to developing and retaining highly qualified bodies are a sine qua non to achieve sustainable systems. To this end, it is essential to implement "in-house" continuing education mechanisms supported by external experts and organizations, and inter-institutional cooperation. It has to be noted that these recommendations could only be realized if policy makers understand and appreciate the value of professional, independent regulatory bodies.

Parasite biodiversity faces extinction and redistribution in a changing climate.

PubMed

Carlson, Colin J; Burgio, Kevin R; Dougherty, Eric R; Phillips, Anna J; Bueno, Veronica M; Clements, Christopher F; Castaldo, Giovanni; Dallas, Tad A; Cizauskas, Carrie A; Cumming, Graeme S; Doña, Jorge; Harris, Nyeema C; Jovani, Roger; Mironov, Sergey; Muellerklein, Oliver C; Proctor, Heather C; Getz, Wayne M

2017-09-01

Climate change is a well-documented driver of both wildlife extinction and disease emergence, but the negative impacts of climate change on parasite diversity are undocumented. We compiled the most comprehensive spatially explicit data set available for parasites, projected range shifts in a changing climate, and estimated extinction rates for eight major parasite clades. On the basis of 53,133 occurrences capturing the geographic ranges of 457 parasite species, conservative model projections suggest that 5 to 10% of these species are committed to extinction by 2070 from climate-driven habitat loss alone. We find no evidence that parasites with zoonotic potential have a significantly higher potential to gain range in a changing climate, but we do find that ectoparasites (especially ticks) fare disproportionately worse than endoparasites. Accounting for host-driven coextinctions, models predict that up to 30% of parasitic worms are committed to extinction, driven by a combination of direct and indirect pressures. Despite high local extinction rates, parasite richness could still increase by an order of magnitude in some places, because species successfully tracking climate change invade temperate ecosystems and replace native species with unpredictable ecological consequences.

Los Angeles congestion reduction demonstration (Metro ExpressLanes). National evaluation : cost benefit analysis test plan.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2002-04-01

The Theory of Operations document is one of a series of deliverables documenting the National Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) Architecture developed under contract to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). The Theory of Operations Docum...

Characterization of in-use emissions from TxDOT's non-road equipment fleet : phase 1 report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-06-01

The objective of this document is to present the preliminary findings of the study characterizing in-use : TxDOT non-road diesel equipment emissions. This document presents literature reviews of emissions : reduction technologies and emissions contro...

A method for automatically abstracting visual documents

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rorvig, Mark E.

1994-01-01

Visual documents--motion sequences on film, videotape, and digital recording--constitute a major source of information for the Space Agency, as well as all other government and private sector entities. This article describes a method for automatically selecting key frames from visual documents. These frames may in turn be used to represent the total image sequence of visual documents in visual libraries, hypermedia systems, and training algorithm reduces 51 minutes of video sequences to 134 frames; a reduction of information in the range of 700:1.

Myelo-erythroid commitment after burn injury is under β-adrenergic control via MafB regulation.

PubMed

Hasan, Shirin; Johnson, Nicholas B; Mosier, Michael J; Shankar, Ravi; Conrad, Peggie; Szilagyi, Andrea; Gamelli, Richard L; Muthumalaiappan, Kuzhali

2017-03-01

Severely injured burn patients receive multiple blood transfusions for anemia of critical illness despite the adverse consequences. One limiting factor to consider alternate treatment strategies is the lack of a reliable test platform to study molecular mechanisms of impaired erythropoiesis. This study illustrates how conditions resulting in a high catecholamine microenvironment such as burns can instigate myelo-erythroid reprioritization influenced by β-adrenergic stimulation leading to anemia. In a mouse model of scald burn injury, we observed, along with a threefold increase in bone marrow LSK cells (lin neg Sca1 + cKit + ), that the myeloid shift is accompanied with a significant reduction in megakaryocyte erythrocyte progenitors (MEPs). β-Blocker administration (propranolol) for 6 days after burn, not only reduced the number of LSKs and MafB + cells in multipotent progenitors, but also influenced myelo-erythroid bifurcation by increasing the MEPs and reducing the granulocyte monocyte progenitors in the bone marrow of burn mice. Furthermore, similar results were observed in burn patients' peripheral blood mononuclear cell-derived ex vivo culture system, demonstrating that commitment stage of erythropoiesis is impaired in burn patients and intervention with propranolol (nonselective β1,2-adrenergic blocker) increases MEPs. Also, MafB + cells that were significantly increased following standard burn care could be mitigated when propranolol was administered to burn patients, establishing the mechanistic regulation of erythroid commitment by myeloid regulatory transcription factor MafB. Overall, results demonstrate that β-adrenergic blockers following burn injury can redirect the hematopoietic commitment toward erythroid lineage by lowering MafB expression in multipotent progenitors and be of potential therapeutic value to increase erythropoietin responsiveness in burn patients. Copyright © 2017 the American Physiological Society.

Myelo-erythroid commitment after burn injury is under β-adrenergic control via MafB regulation

PubMed Central

Hasan, Shirin; Johnson, Nicholas B.; Mosier, Michael J.; Shankar, Ravi; Conrad, Peggie; Szilagyi, Andrea; Gamelli, Richard L.

2017-01-01

Severely injured burn patients receive multiple blood transfusions for anemia of critical illness despite the adverse consequences. One limiting factor to consider alternate treatment strategies is the lack of a reliable test platform to study molecular mechanisms of impaired erythropoiesis. This study illustrates how conditions resulting in a high catecholamine microenvironment such as burns can instigate myelo-erythroid reprioritization influenced by β-adrenergic stimulation leading to anemia. In a mouse model of scald burn injury, we observed, along with a threefold increase in bone marrow LSK cells (linneg Sca1+cKit+), that the myeloid shift is accompanied with a significant reduction in megakaryocyte erythrocyte progenitors (MEPs). β-Blocker administration (propranolol) for 6 days after burn, not only reduced the number of LSKs and MafB+ cells in multipotent progenitors, but also influenced myelo-erythroid bifurcation by increasing the MEPs and reducing the granulocyte monocyte progenitors in the bone marrow of burn mice. Furthermore, similar results were observed in burn patients’ peripheral blood mononuclear cell-derived ex vivo culture system, demonstrating that commitment stage of erythropoiesis is impaired in burn patients and intervention with propranolol (nonselective β1,2-adrenergic blocker) increases MEPs. Also, MafB+ cells that were significantly increased following standard burn care could be mitigated when propranolol was administered to burn patients, establishing the mechanistic regulation of erythroid commitment by myeloid regulatory transcription factor MafB. Overall, results demonstrate that β-adrenergic blockers following burn injury can redirect the hematopoietic commitment toward erythroid lineage by lowering MafB expression in multipotent progenitors and be of potential therapeutic value to increase erythropoietin responsiveness in burn patients. PMID:28031160

The Nevada Class Size Reduction Evaluation Study, 1995.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nevada State Dept. of Education, Carson City.

A primary purpose for reducing the student-teacher ratio in the early grades is to make students more successful in their later years. This document contains two separate, but interrelated reports that examined two aspects of the 1989 Class Size Reduction (CSR) Act in Nevada. The Act called for a reduction in student-teacher ratios for selected…

Intersectorality and social participation as coping policies for health inequities-worldwide.

PubMed

Fiorati, Regina Celia; Arcêncio, Ricardo A; Segura Del Pozo, Javier; Ramasco-Gutiérrez, Milagros; Serrano-Gallardo, Pilar

To determine the impact that intersectoral policies and social participation, implemented worldwide, have had on the modification of the social determinants for health and on the reduction of social health inequities. A scoping review of the literature published in the period 2005-2015 was performed. The literature search was conducted on PubMed and Scielo databases. Two researchers reviewed each document. Data were analysed according to the intersectoral action and social participation variables and according to the theoretical frameworks of the Social Determinants Model of the Commission on Social Determinants of Health (CSDH) and the theoretical constructs of Social Capital (SC) and Life Course (LC). Out of 45 documents likely to be selected for final review, all of them based on title and abstract, 20 documents were eventually picked out and analysed; most them (n = 8) were conducted in all Latin America and Latin America's countries. Twelve documents reported intersectoral action associated with social participation in partnership with different institutions. Regarding theoretical frameworks, most of studies (n = 8) used CSDH and SC. In relation to health outcomes, the studies showed mainly: increased access to health and education, follow-up of pregnant women, increasing in prenatal examinations, reduction in malnutrition/child mortality, reduction in extreme poverty/hunger; reduction in epidemics/tuberculosis, control of alcohol/drug consumption, promotion of health/mental as well as basic sanitation improvements. Intersectoral and social participation experiences studied yielded positive outcomes regarding health status and quality of life in the communities in which such experiences were implemented. Copyright © 2017 SESPAS. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Six sigma for revenue retrieval.

PubMed

Plonien, Cynthia

2013-01-01

Deficiencies in revenue retrieval due to failures in obtaining charges have contributed to a negative bottom line for numerous hospitals. Improving documentation practices through a Six Sigma process improvement initiative can minimize opportunities for errors through reviews and instill structure for compliance and consistency. Commitment to the Six Sigma principles with continuous monitoring of outcomes and constant communication of results to departments, management, and payers is a strong approach to reducing the financial impact of denials on an organization's revenues and expenses. Using Six Sigma tools can help improve the organization's financial performance not only for today, but also for health care's uncertain future.

The incidence of defensive firearm use by US crime victims, 1987 through 1990.

PubMed Central

McDowall, D; Wiersema, B

1994-01-01

It is well known that many crimes in the United States are committed with firearms. Less adequately documented is the frequency with which victims use guns in self-defense. We used National Crime Victimization Survey data to examine incidents where victims employed guns against offenders. Between 1987 and 1990 there were an estimated 258,460 incidents of firearm defense, an annual mean of 64,615. Victims used firearms in 0.18% of all crimes recorded by the survey and in 0.83% of violent offenses. Firearm self-defense is rare compared with gun crimes. PMID:7998641

[Educational philosophy of acupuncture and moxibustion of Chengjiang school successor professor HUANG Zongxu].

PubMed

Meng, Xianjun; Zhu, Anning; Yang, Zongbao; Kuang, Zifang; Wang, Yu; Xu, Weiwei

2016-12-12

Based on the historical documents regarding professor HUANG Zongxu , his educational philosophy of acupuncture and moxibustion was summarized. As a result, the following characteristics were found. He focused on the education of acupuncture and moxibustion, which combined the classroom teaching with apprentice teaching; he compiled teaching materials and committed himself to education reform; he started the first acupuncture undergraduate majors in Fujian province; he valued the academic inheritance and practice of acupuncture; he authored publications and proposed arguments to inherit experience. In addition, he valued medical ethics and focused on patients.

Biopsychosocial Characteristics of Children Who Later Murder: A Prospective Study

PubMed Central

Lewis, Dorothy Otnow; Moy, Ernest; Jackson, Lori D.; Aaronson, Robert; Restifo, Nicholas; Serra, Susan; Simos, Alexander

2007-01-01

The authors document the childhood neuropsychiatric and family characteristics of nine male subjects who were clinically evaluated as adolescents and were later arrested for murder. Those subjects are compared with 24 incarcerated delinquents who did not go on to commit violent offenses. The future murderers displayed a constellation of biopsychosocial characteristics that included psychotic symptoms, major neurological impairment, a psychotic first-degree relative, violent acts during childhood, and severe physical abuse. The authors relate this combination of factors to prediction of violence and discuss ethical issues that are involved in intervention to prevent violence. PMID:4037127

NASA Standard for Models and Simulations (M and S): Development Process and Rationale

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zang, Thomas A.; Blattnig, Steve R.; Green, Lawrence L.; Hemsch, Michael J.; Luckring, James M.; Morison, Joseph H.; Tripathi, Ram K.

2009-01-01

After the Columbia Accident Investigation Board (CAIB) report. the NASA Administrator at that time chartered an executive team (known as the Diaz Team) to identify the CAIB report elements with Agency-wide applicability, and to develop corrective measures to address each element. This report documents the chronological development and release of an Agency-wide Standard for Models and Simulations (M&S) (NASA Standard 7009) in response to Action #4 from the report, "A Renewed Commitment to Excellence: An Assessment of the NASA Agency-wide Applicability of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board Report, January 30, 2004".

Characterization of in-use emissions from TxDOT's non-road equipment fleet : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-08-01

The objective of this document is to present the findings of the study characterizing in-use emissions of TxDOT's non-road diesel equipment. This document presents literature reviews of emission reduction technologies and emission control measures pr...

Defense Threat Reduction Agency > Research > DTRIAC

Science.gov Websites

FOIA Electronic Reading Room Privacy Impact Assessment DTRA No Fear Act Reporting Nuclear Test Personnel Review NTPR Fact Sheets NTPR Radiation Dose Assessment Documents US Atmospheric Nuclear Test History Documents US Underground Nuclear Test History Reports NTPR Radiation Exposure Reports Enewetak

Defense Threat Reduction Agency > Careers

Science.gov Websites

FOIA Electronic Reading Room Privacy Impact Assessment DTRA No Fear Act Reporting Nuclear Test Personnel Review NTPR Fact Sheets NTPR Radiation Dose Assessment Documents US Atmospheric Nuclear Test History Documents US Underground Nuclear Test History Reports NTPR Radiation Exposure Reports Enewetak

Defense Threat Reduction Agency > Home > Contact

Science.gov Websites

FOIA Electronic Reading Room Privacy Impact Assessment DTRA No Fear Act Reporting Nuclear Test Personnel Review NTPR Fact Sheets NTPR Radiation Dose Assessment Documents US Atmospheric Nuclear Test History Documents US Underground Nuclear Test History Reports NTPR Radiation Exposure Reports Enewetak

Muslim Prison Ministry: Hindering the Spread of the Radical, Militant, Violent and Irreconcilable Wing of Islam

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-05-25

The reduction of the North American Indian population is viewed by many as genocide and also agreed by many as a disgraceful account in American...Conventions. Our Armed Forces are committed to complying with them and to holding accountable those in our military who do not.”37 President George...Jefferson’s’ words "No man shall be compelled, to frequent or support any religious worship or ministry or shall otherwise suffer on account of his

Counterinsurgency Scorecard: Afghanistan in Early 2013 Relative to Insurgencies Since World War II

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-01-01

permissions.html). RAND OFFICES SANTA MONICA, CA • WASHINGTON, DC PITTSBURGH, PA • NEW ORLEANS, LA • JACKSON , MS • BOSTON, MA DOHA, QA...are always in the pack: tan - gible support reduction, commitment and motivation, and flexibility and adaptability. • Every insurgency is unique, but...win Guatemala 1960–1996 8 –4 4 COIN win Tibet 1956–1974 7 –3 4 COIN win Sri Lanka 1976–2009 6 –1 5 COIN win Mozambique (Mozambican National

Gamification as a strategy to engage and motivate clinicians to improve care.

PubMed

McKeown, Shari; Krause, Christina; Shergill, Meher; Siu, Andrew; Sweet, David

2016-03-01

Approaching change through seeking commitment rather than requiring compliance is an effective way to promote desired behaviours in healthcare. Gamification was explored as a technique to engage clinicians in the adoption of sepsis identification and management tools. Positive extrinsic (eg, feedback and rewards) and intrinsic (eg, mastery, autonomy, relatedness, and purpose) motivators were integrated into a campaign to save lives, leading to a significant reduction in severe sepsis mortality and improvement in processes of care. © 2016 The Canadian College of Health Leaders.

[Gender, human rights and socioeconomic impact of AIDS in Brazil].

PubMed

de Oliveira, Rosa Maria Rodrigues

2006-04-01

The paper critically analyzes, from the gender standpoint, official results presented in the Brazilian government report to the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS). Specifically, the fulfillment of 2003 targets set forth in the United Nations Declaration of Commitment on HIV/AIDS, under the category of Human Rights and Reduction of the Economic and Social Impact of AIDS, are evaluated. Key concepts are highlighted, including indicators and strategies that may help civilian society better monitor these targets until 2010.

Aligning Documentation With Congenital Muscular Torticollis Clinical Practice Guidelines: Administrative Case Report.

PubMed

Gutierrez, Dennis; Kaplan, Sandra L

2016-01-01

A hospital-based pediatric outpatient center, wanting to weave evidence into practice, initiated an update of knowledge, skills, and documentation patterns with its staff physical therapists and occupational therapists who treat people with congenital muscular torticollis (CMT). This case report describes 2 cycles of implementation: (1) the facilitators and barriers to implementation and (2) selected quality improvement outcomes aligned with published clinical practice guidelines (CPGs). The Pediatric Therapy Services of St Joseph's Regional Medical Center in New Jersey has 4 full-time, 1 part-time, and 3 per diem staff. Chart audits in 2012 revealed variations in measurement, interventions, and documentation that led to quality improvement initiatives. An iterative process, loosely following the knowledge-to-action cycle, included a series of in-service training sessions to review the basic anatomy, pathokinesiology, and treatment strategies for CMT; reading assignments of the available CPGs; journal review; documentation revisions; and training on the recommended measurements to implement 2 published CPGs and measure outcomes. A previous 1-page generic narrative became a 3-page CMT-specific form aligned with the American Physical Therapy Association Section on Pediatrics CMT CPG recommendations. Staff training on the Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability (FLACC) pain scale, classification of severity, type of CMT, prognostication, measures of cervical range of motion, and developmental progression improved documentation consistency from 0% to 81.9% to 100%. Clinicians responded positively to using the longer initial evaluation form. Successful implementation of both clinical and documentation practices were facilitated by a multifaceted approach to knowledge translation that included a culture supportive of evidence-based practice, administrative support for training and documentation redesign, commitment by clinicians to embrace changes aimed at improved care, and clinical guidelines that provide implementable recommendations. © 2016 American Physical Therapy Association.

5 CFR 1201.137 - Covered actions; filing complaint; serving documents on parties.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

...) Reduction in grade; (4) Reduction in pay; and (5) Furlough of 30 days or less. (b) Place of filing. To... complaint, together with numbered and tabbed exhibits or attachments, if any, and a certificate of service...

5 CFR 1201.137 - Covered actions; filing complaint; serving documents on parties.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

...) Reduction in grade; (4) Reduction in pay; and (5) Furlough of 30 days or less. (b) Place of filing. To... complaint, together with numbered and tabbed exhibits or attachments, if any, and a certificate of service...

APPLICATION OF RADON REDUCTION METHODS

EPA Science Inventory

The document is intended to aid homeowners and contractors in diagnosing and solving indoor radon problems. It will also be useful to State and Federal regulatory officials and many other persons who provide advice on the selection, design and operation of radon reduction methods...

A realist evaluation of the management of a well- performing regional hospital in Ghana

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background Realist evaluation offers an interesting approach to evaluation of interventions in complex settings, but has been little applied in health care. We report on a realist case study of a well performing hospital in Ghana and show how such a realist evaluation design can help to overcome the limited external validity of a traditional case study. Methods We developed a realist evaluation framework for hypothesis formulation, data collection, data analysis and synthesis of the findings. Focusing on the role of human resource management in hospital performance, we formulated our hypothesis around the high commitment management concept. Mixed methods were used in data collection, including individual and group interviews, observations and document reviews. Results We found that the human resource management approach (the actual intervention) included induction of new staff, training and personal development, good communication and information sharing, and decentralised decision-making. We identified 3 additional practices: ensuring optimal physical working conditions, access to top managers and managers' involvement on the work floor. Teamwork, recognition and trust emerged as key elements of the organisational climate. Interviewees reported high levels of organisational commitment. The analysis unearthed perceived organisational support and reciprocity as underlying mechanisms that link the management practices with commitment. Methodologically, we found that realist evaluation can be fruitfully used to develop detailed case studies that analyse how management interventions work and in which conditions. Analysing the links between intervention, mechanism and outcome increases the explaining power, while identification of essential context elements improves the usefulness of the findings for decision-makers in other settings (external validity). We also identified a number of practical difficulties and priorities for further methodological development. Conclusion This case suggests that a well-balanced HRM bundle can stimulate organisational commitment of health workers. Such practices can be implemented even with narrow decision spaces. Realist evaluation provides an appropriate approach to increase the usefulness of case studies to managers and policymakers. PMID:20100330

A realist evaluation of the management of a well-performing regional hospital in Ghana.

PubMed

Marchal, Bruno; Dedzo, McDamien; Kegels, Guy

2010-01-25

Realist evaluation offers an interesting approach to evaluation of interventions in complex settings, but has been little applied in health care. We report on a realist case study of a well performing hospital in Ghana and show how such a realist evaluation design can help to overcome the limited external validity of a traditional case study. We developed a realist evaluation framework for hypothesis formulation, data collection, data analysis and synthesis of the findings. Focusing on the role of human resource management in hospital performance, we formulated our hypothesis around the high commitment management concept. Mixed methods were used in data collection, including individual and group interviews, observations and document reviews. We found that the human resource management approach (the actual intervention) included induction of new staff, training and personal development, good communication and information sharing, and decentralised decision-making. We identified 3 additional practices: ensuring optimal physical working conditions, access to top managers and managers' involvement on the work floor. Teamwork, recognition and trust emerged as key elements of the organisational climate. Interviewees reported high levels of organisational commitment. The analysis unearthed perceived organisational support and reciprocity as underlying mechanisms that link the management practices with commitment. Methodologically, we found that realist evaluation can be fruitfully used to develop detailed case studies that analyse how management interventions work and in which conditions. Analysing the links between intervention, mechanism and outcome increases the explaining power, while identification of essential context elements improves the usefulness of the findings for decision-makers in other settings (external validity). We also identified a number of practical difficulties and priorities for further methodological development. This case suggests that a well-balanced HRM bundle can stimulate organisational commitment of health workers. Such practices can be implemented even with narrow decision spaces. Realist evaluation provides an appropriate approach to increase the usefulness of case studies to managers and policymakers.

Turn It Off: An Action Research Study of Top Management Influence on Energy Conservation in the Workplace

PubMed Central

Russell, Sally V.; Evans, Alice; Fielding, Kelly S.; Hill, Christopher

2016-01-01

This paper reports the results of an intervention study that aimed to encourage workplace energy conservation behavior by office-based employees. Taking a co-production approach we worked with the participating organization to design and implement an intervention that used the influence of top management commitment and prompts to encourage workplace energy reduction. Whilst past research has shown top management is related to workplace pro-environmental behavior, this study extends this work by examining a field-based intervention over a longitudinal period. The efficacy of the intervention was measured using observational and self-reported data over a period of 6 months. Results showed that there were significant changes in objective and self-reported energy conservation behavior, perceived top management commitment, organizational culture, norms, and knowledge regarding energy conservation behavior over the course of the study. The findings also demonstrated that the intervention was most successful for those behaviors where employees have individual responsibility. Implications for future research and practice are discussed. PMID:27047417

Turn It Off: An Action Research Study of Top Management Influence on Energy Conservation in the Workplace.

PubMed

Russell, Sally V; Evans, Alice; Fielding, Kelly S; Hill, Christopher

2016-01-01

This paper reports the results of an intervention study that aimed to encourage workplace energy conservation behavior by office-based employees. Taking a co-production approach we worked with the participating organization to design and implement an intervention that used the influence of top management commitment and prompts to encourage workplace energy reduction. Whilst past research has shown top management is related to workplace pro-environmental behavior, this study extends this work by examining a field-based intervention over a longitudinal period. The efficacy of the intervention was measured using observational and self-reported data over a period of 6 months. Results showed that there were significant changes in objective and self-reported energy conservation behavior, perceived top management commitment, organizational culture, norms, and knowledge regarding energy conservation behavior over the course of the study. The findings also demonstrated that the intervention was most successful for those behaviors where employees have individual responsibility. Implications for future research and practice are discussed.

Association Between Connecticut’s Permit-to-Purchase Handgun Law and Homicides

PubMed Central

Rudolph, Kara E.; Stuart, Elizabeth A.; Vernick, Jon S.

2015-01-01

Objectives. We sought to estimate the effect of Connecticut’s implementation of a handgun permit-to-purchase law in October 1995 on subsequent homicides. Methods. Using the synthetic control method, we compared Connecticut’s homicide rates after the law’s implementation to rates we would have expected had the law not been implemented. To estimate the counterfactual, we used longitudinal data from a weighted combination of comparison states identified based on the ability of their prelaw homicide trends and covariates to predict prelaw homicide trends in Connecticut. Results. We estimated that the law was associated with a 40% reduction in Connecticut’s firearm homicide rates during the first 10 years that the law was in place. By contrast, there was no evidence for a reduction in nonfirearm homicides. Conclusions. Consistent with prior research, this study demonstrated that Connecticut’s handgun permit-to-purchase law was associated with a subsequent reduction in homicide rates. As would be expected if the law drove the reduction, the policy’s effects were only evident for homicides committed with firearms. PMID:26066959

Ending AIDS as a Public Health Threat: Treatment-as-Usual Risk Reduction Services for Persons With Mental Illness in Brazil.

PubMed

Wainberg, Milton L; McKinnon, Karen; Norcini-Pala, Andrea; Hughes, Olivia K; Schrage, Ezra; Erby, Whitney; Mann, Claudio G; Cournos, Francine

2018-04-01

Persons with mental illness have higher HIV infection rates than the general population. Little is known about whether care systems for this population are effectively participating in global efforts to end AIDS as a public health threat. This study examined treatment-as-usual HIV risk reduction services within public mental health settings. The authors interviewed 641 sexually active adults attending eight public psychiatric clinics in Rio de Janeiro about participation in a sexual risk reduction program, HIV testing, HIV knowledge, and sexual behaviors. Nine percent reported participation in a risk reduction program in the past year, and 75% reported having unprotected sex in the past three months. Program participants had greater HIV knowledge (p=.04) and were more likely to have had HIV testing in the past three months (p=.02), compared with nonparticipants. Participation was not associated with sexual behaviors. Including persons with mental illness in efforts to end AIDS requires a greater commitment to implementing effective interventions in public mental health systems.

Risk avoidance versus risk reduction: a framework and segmentation profile for understanding adolescent sexual activity.

PubMed

Hopkins, Christopher D; Tanner, John F; Raymond, Mary Anne

2004-01-01

The teen birthrate in the United States is twice that of other industrialized nations. Adolescents in the U.S. are among high-risk groups for HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases. As a result, the Department of Health and Human Services changed its policy on the promotion of abstinence to teenagers from a focus on a risk reduction strategy to a focus on a risk avoidance strategy. In order to create more effective risk avoidance as well as risk reduction campaigns, this study proposes a framework to illustrate the distinction that teens make between spontaneous sexual activity and planned sexual activity, as well as those teens that make a commitment to abstinence versus abstinence by default. Furthermore, this study classifies teens into three behavior segments (abstemious, promiscuous and monogamous) and then assesses specific differences that exist within these groups relative to their attitudes and perceptions concerning abstinence, sexual activity, contraception, fear and norms. This change in focus from a risk reduction to a risk avoidance strategy has important implications for social marketing, public policy and marketing theory.

The National Commitment Towards Conserving the Heritage (documentation of Historical and Cultural Sites in Gcc Countries)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

AlSulaiti, F.

2013-07-01

The five Arab Gulf countries of Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Oman possess many shared characteristics and historical ties across their common peninsula. The prime factor uniting them is the historical nature of their entwined involvement with peoples and nations beyond the region. That the Gulf has been an important water passageway since ancient times suggests that the inhabitants of its shores met early on with other civilizations. The knowledge of one's roots, history, and traditional arts supports awareness of inherited culture and can help contextualize and illuminate community reflection and identification. The intricacy of the recording and understanding processes of documentation requires skilled professionals, with knowledge and awareness for the associated tasks. Responsible of cultural heritage should provide the adequate documentations, recording and updating of the records. Collaboration of different individuals such as specialist heritage, archaeologists, surveyors, conservators, researchers, architectural historians, and many other expert personnel is the golden key of successful documentation. The purpose of this document is to show the authorities of Gulf Arab countries and their planning measures, management and sharing effect of recording the cultural heritage. This essay identifies key points in the approach to contextualizing and developing cultural identity in a way that respects organic qualities. Through highlighting a number of archeological ruins and outlining management plans, the essay explores frameworks that can be applied to promote and preserve integral identity of important sites and their greater surrounding communities.

Defense Threat Reduction Agency > Contracts > Business Opportunities

Science.gov Websites

FOIA Electronic Reading Room Privacy Impact Assessment DTRA No Fear Act Reporting Nuclear Test Personnel Review NTPR Fact Sheets NTPR Radiation Dose Assessment Documents US Atmospheric Nuclear Test History Documents US Underground Nuclear Test History Reports NTPR Radiation Exposure Reports Enewetak

Defense Threat Reduction Agency > Contracts > Contract Award Data

Science.gov Websites

FOIA Electronic Reading Room Privacy Impact Assessment DTRA No Fear Act Reporting Nuclear Test Personnel Review NTPR Fact Sheets NTPR Radiation Dose Assessment Documents US Atmospheric Nuclear Test History Documents US Underground Nuclear Test History Reports NTPR Radiation Exposure Reports Enewetak

Defense Threat Reduction Agency > Contracts > Business Opportunities >

Science.gov Websites

Reporting Nuclear Test Personnel Review NTPR Fact Sheets NTPR Radiation Dose Assessment Documents US Atmospheric Nuclear Test History Documents US Underground Nuclear Test History Reports NTPR Radiation Exposure Current Contractors & Partners Cost Proposals & DCAA Pre-Award Surveys DTRA Cost Proposal

Defense Threat Reduction Agency > Contracts > Small Businesses

Science.gov Websites

FOIA Electronic Reading Room Privacy Impact Assessment DTRA No Fear Act Reporting Nuclear Test Personnel Review NTPR Fact Sheets NTPR Radiation Dose Assessment Documents US Atmospheric Nuclear Test History Documents US Underground Nuclear Test History Reports NTPR Radiation Exposure Reports Enewetak

Defense Threat Reduction Agency > Home > Operating Status

Science.gov Websites

FOIA Electronic Reading Room Privacy Impact Assessment DTRA No Fear Act Reporting Nuclear Test Personnel Review NTPR Fact Sheets NTPR Radiation Dose Assessment Documents US Atmospheric Nuclear Test History Documents US Underground Nuclear Test History Reports NTPR Radiation Exposure Reports Enewetak

Defense Threat Reduction Agency > Careers > Onboarding > Getting Here

Science.gov Websites

FOIA Electronic Reading Room Privacy Impact Assessment DTRA No Fear Act Reporting Nuclear Test Personnel Review NTPR Fact Sheets NTPR Radiation Dose Assessment Documents US Atmospheric Nuclear Test History Documents US Underground Nuclear Test History Reports NTPR Radiation Exposure Reports Enewetak