Sample records for technical ear training

  1. An assessment of individualized technical ear training for audio production.

    PubMed

    Kim, Sungyoung

    2015-07-01

    An individualized technical ear training method is compared to a non-individualized method. The efficacy of the individualized method is assessed using a standardized test conducted before and after the training period. Participants who received individualized training improved better than the control group on the test. Results indicate the importance of individualized training for acquisition of spectrum-identification and spectrum-matching skills. Individualized training, therefore, should be implemented by default into technical ear training programs used in audio production industry and education.

  2. PubMed Central

    LINKE, R.; LEICHTLE, A.; SHEIKH, F.; SCHMIDT, C.; FRENZEL, H.; GRAEFE, H.; WOLLENBERG, B.; MEYER, J.E.

    2013-01-01

    SUMMARY Surgery on the temporal bone is technically challenging due to its complex anatomy. Precise anatomical dissection of the human temporal bone is essential and is fundamental for middle ear surgery. We assessed the possible application of a virtual reality temporal bone surgery simulator to the education of ear surgeons. Seventeen ENT physicians with different levels of surgical training and 20 medical students performed an antrotomy with a computer-based virtual temporal bone surgery simulator. The ease, accuracy and timing of the simulated temporal bone surgery were assessed using the automatic assessment software provided by the simulator device and additionally with a modified Final Product Analysis Scale. Trained ENT surgeons, physicians without temporal bone surgical training and medical students were all able to perform the antrotomy. However, the highly trained ENT surgeons were able to complete the surgery in approximately half the time, with better handling and accuracy as assessed by the significant reduction in injury to important middle ear structures. Trained ENT surgeons achieved significantly higher scores using both dissection analysis methods. Surprisingly, there were no significant differences in the results between medical students and physicians without experience in ear surgery. The virtual temporal bone training system can stratify users of known levels of experience. This system can be used not only to improve the surgical skills of trained ENT surgeons for more successful and injury-free surgeries, but also to train inexperienced physicians/medical students in developing their surgical skills for the ear. PMID:24043916

  3. Virtual reality training for improving the skills needed for performing surgery of the ear, nose or throat.

    PubMed

    Piromchai, Patorn; Avery, Alex; Laopaiboon, Malinee; Kennedy, Gregor; O'Leary, Stephen

    2015-09-09

    Virtual reality simulation uses computer-generated imagery to present a simulated training environment for learners. This review seeks to examine whether there is evidence to support the introduction of virtual reality surgical simulation into ear, nose and throat surgical training programmes. 1. To assess whether surgeons undertaking virtual reality simulation-based training achieve surgical ('patient') outcomes that are at least as good as, or better than, those achieved through conventional training methods.2. To assess whether there is evidence from either the operating theatre, or from controlled (simulation centre-based) environments, that virtual reality-based surgical training leads to surgical skills that are comparable to, or better than, those achieved through conventional training. The Cochrane Ear, Nose and Throat Disorders Group (CENTDG) Trials Search Co-ordinator searched the CENTDG Trials Register; Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL 2015, Issue 6); PubMed; EMBASE; ERIC; CINAHL; Web of Science; ClinicalTrials.gov; ICTRP and additional sources for published and unpublished trials. The date of the search was 27 July 2015. We included all randomised controlled trials and controlled trials comparing virtual reality training and any other method of training in ear, nose or throat surgery. We used the standard methodological procedures expected by The Cochrane Collaboration. We evaluated both technical and non-technical aspects of skill competency. We included nine studies involving 210 participants. Out of these, four studies (involving 61 residents) assessed technical skills in the operating theatre (primary outcomes). Five studies (comprising 149 residents and medical students) assessed technical skills in controlled environments (secondary outcomes). The majority of the trials were at high risk of bias. We assessed the GRADE quality of evidence for most outcomes across studies as 'low'. Operating theatre environment (primary outcomes) In the operating theatre, there were no studies that examined two of three primary outcomes: real world patient outcomes and acquisition of non-technical skills. The third primary outcome (technical skills in the operating theatre) was evaluated in two studies comparing virtual reality endoscopic sinus surgery training with conventional training. In one study, psychomotor skill (which relates to operative technique or the physical co-ordination associated with instrument handling) was assessed on a 10-point scale. A second study evaluated the procedural outcome of time-on-task. The virtual reality group performance was significantly better, with a better psychomotor score (mean difference (MD) 1.66, 95% CI 0.52 to 2.81; 10-point scale) and a shorter time taken to complete the operation (MD -5.50 minutes, 95% CI -9.97 to -1.03). Controlled training environments (secondary outcomes) In a controlled environment five studies evaluated the technical skills of surgical trainees (one study) and medical students (three studies). One study was excluded from the analysis. Surgical trainees: One study (80 participants) evaluated the technical performance of surgical trainees during temporal bone surgery, where the outcome was the quality of the final dissection. There was no difference in the end-product scores between virtual reality and cadaveric temporal bone training. Medical students: Two other studies (40 participants) evaluated technical skills achieved by medical students in the temporal bone laboratory. Learners' knowledge of the flow of the operative procedure (procedural score) was better after virtual reality than conventional training (SMD 1.11, 95% CI 0.44 to 1.79). There was also a significant difference in end-product score between the virtual reality and conventional training groups (SMD 2.60, 95% CI 1.71 to 3.49). One study (17 participants) revealed that medical students acquired anatomical knowledge (on a scale of 0 to 10) better during virtual reality than during conventional training (MD 4.3, 95% CI 2.05 to 6.55). No studies in a controlled training environment assessed non-technical skills. There is limited evidence to support the inclusion of virtual reality surgical simulation into surgical training programmes, on the basis that it can allow trainees to develop technical skills that are at least as good as those achieved through conventional training. Further investigations are required to determine whether virtual reality training is associated with better real world outcomes for patients and the development of non-technical skills. Virtual reality simulation may be considered as an additional learning tool for medical students.

  4. Assessment of skills using a virtual reality temporal bone surgery simulator.

    PubMed

    Linke, R; Leichtle, A; Sheikh, F; Schmidt, C; Frenzel, H; Graefe, H; Wollenberg, B; Meyer, J E

    2013-08-01

    Surgery on the temporal bone is technically challenging due to its complex anatomy. Precise anatomical dissection of the human temporal bone is essential and is fundamental for middle ear surgery. We assessed the possible application of a virtual reality temporal bone surgery simulator to the education of ear surgeons. Seventeen ENT physicians with different levels of surgical training and 20 medical students performed an antrotomy with a computer-based virtual temporal bone surgery simulator. The ease, accuracy and timing of the simulated temporal bone surgery were assessed using the automatic assessment software provided by the simulator device and additionally with a modified Final Product Analysis Scale. Trained ENT surgeons, physicians without temporal bone surgical training and medical students were all able to perform the antrotomy. However, the highly trained ENT surgeons were able to complete the surgery in approximately half the time, with better handling and accuracy as assessed by the significant reduction in injury to important middle ear structures. Trained ENT surgeons achieved significantly higher scores using both dissection analysis methods. Surprisingly, there were no significant differences in the results between medical students and physicians without experience in ear surgery. The virtual temporal bone training system can stratify users of known levels of experience. This system can be used not only to improve the surgical skills of trained ENT surgeons for more successful and injury-free surgeries, but also to train inexperienced physicians/medical students in developing their surgical skills for the ear.

  5. Effects of user training with electronically-modulated sound transmission hearing protectors and the open ear on horizontal localization ability.

    PubMed

    Casali, John G; Robinette, Martin B

    2015-02-01

    To determine if training with electronically-modulated hearing protection (EMHP) and the open ear results in auditory learning on a horizontal localization task. Baseline localization testing was conducted in three listening conditions (open-ear, in-the-ear (ITE) EMHP, and over-the-ear (OTE) EMHP). Participants then wore either an ITE or OTE EMHP for 12, almost daily, one-hour training sessions. After training was complete, participants again underwent localization testing in all three listening conditions. A computer with a custom software and hardware interface presented localization sounds and collected participant responses. Twelve participants were recruited from the student population at Virginia Tech. Audiometric requirements were 35 dBHL at 500, 1000, and 2000 Hz bilaterally, and 55 dBHL at 4000 Hz in at least one ear. Pre-training localization performance with an ITE or OTE EMHP was worse than open-ear performance. After training with any given listening condition, including open-ear, performance in that listening condition improved, in part from a practice effect. However, post-training localization performance showed near equal performance between the open-ear and training EMHP. Auditory learning occurred for the training EMHP, but not for the non-training EMHP; that is, there was no significant training crossover effect between the ITE and the OTE devices. It is evident from this study that auditory learning (improved horizontal localization performance) occurred with the EMHP for which training was performed. However, performance improvements found with the training EMHP were not realized in the non-training EMHP. Furthermore, localization performance in the open-ear condition also benefitted from training on the task.

  6. Ear pain and its treatment in hypobaric chamber training in the Japan Air Self-Defense Force.

    PubMed

    Ohrui, Nobuhiro; Takeuchi, Akihiko; Tong, Andrew; Iwata, Masashi

    2008-06-01

    We have documented that ear pain is the most prevalent physiologic incident during hypobaric chamber training in the Japan Air Self-Defense Force. Ear pain may increase also in flight in the future because it is closely related to allergic rhinitis. Therefore, it is very important to know the characteristic of ear pain and the efficacy of its treatment. The incidence of ear pain was calculated in each training profile from 1990 to 1998. Type III chamber flight records were further analyzed for the characteristics of ear pain: relationship with a trainee occupational category, time of occurrence of ear pain, and efficacy of treatment. Of 17,935 exposures, 740 trainees (4.1%) had ear pain. Of 7,047 trainees, 429 (6.1%) complained of ear pain especially in Type III, totaling 625 times. Fighter pilots and cargo pilots complained of ear pain one twelfth and one third the number of times, respectively, compared with passengers. Of the 625 episodes, 616 (98.6%) occurred during descent. Three kinds of treatment were administered until the pain was relieved in the following order: Valsalva maneuver, Politzer bag, and decompression. The efficacy rates were 35.8, 92.3, and 83.9%, respectively. Only 5 trainees (0.07%) could not complete training due to ear pain despite treatment. The combination treatment of Valsalva maneuver, Politzer bag, and decompression is very effective for relieving ear pain encountered during hypobaric chamber training. A health specialist needs to understand ear pain and its treatment in hypobaric environment such as aircraft.

  7. Feasibility and acceptability of training community health workers in ear and hearing care in Malawi: a cluster randomised controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Mulwafu, Wakisa; Kuper, Hannah; Viste, Asgaut; Goplen, Frederik K

    2017-10-11

    To assess the feasibility and acceptability of training community health workers (CHWs) in ear and hearing care, and their ability to identify patients with ear and hearing disorders. Cluster randomised controlled trial (RCT). Health centres in Thyolo district, Malawi. Ten health centres participated, 5 intervention (29 CHWs) and 5 control (28 CHWs). Intervention CHWs received 3 days of training in primary ear and hearing care, while among control CHWs, training was delayed for 6 months. Both groups were given a pretest that assessed knowledge about ear and hearing care, only the intervention group was given the posttest on the third day of training. The intervention group was given 1 month to identify patients with ear and hearing disorders in their communities, and these people were screened for hearing disorders by ear, nose and throat clinical specialists. Primary outcome measure was improvement in knowledge of ear and hearing care among CHWs after the training. Secondary outcome measures were number of patients with ear or hearing disorders identified by CHWs and number recorded at health centres during routine activities, and the perceived feasibility and acceptability of the intervention. The average overall correct answers increased from 55% to 68% (95% CI 65 to 71) in the intervention group (p<0.001). A total of 1739 patients with potential ear and hearing disorders were identified by CHWs and 860 patients attended the screening camps, of whom 400 had hearing loss (73 patients determined through bilateral fail on otoacoustic emissions, 327 patients through audiometry). Where cause could be determined, the most common cause of ear and hearing disorders was chronic suppurative otitis media followed by impacted wax. The intervention was perceived as feasible and acceptable to implement. Training was effective in improving the knowledge of CHW in ear and hearing care in Malawi and allowing them to identify patients with ear and hearing disorders. This intervention could be scaled up to other CHWs in low-income and middle-income countries. Pan African Clinical Trial Registry (201705002285194); Results. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

  8. Replantation of an avulsed ear, using a single arterial anastamosis.

    PubMed

    O'Toole, G; Bhatti, K; Masood, S

    2008-01-01

    Avulsion of the ear is relatively uncommon and replantation a technical challenge. A case in which an avulsed ear was successfully replanted using a single arterial anastamosis is described. The surgical difficulties encountered, the pharmaceutical approach to postoperative care and the problems which resulted from the lack of venous drainage are discussed.

  9. Aging of the ear, exposed and not exposed to noise

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fleischer, Gerald; Müller, Reinhard; Heppelmann, Guido; Bache, Thomas; Gao, Xia; Wang, Feng; Huang, Weiguo

    2002-05-01

    Hearing in two special groups was compared, using pure-tone audiometry up to 16 kHz. One group consisted of commercial airline pilots in Germany, the other of people living in remote parts of the People's Republic of China, without electricity, cars or, other technical equipment. The age of the 502 pilots (99% male) ranged from 22 to 65 years, while that of the 644 Chinese (61% male) ranged from 6 to 82 years. In both groups participants with diseases of the ear and with acute acoustic trauma were excluded. Analysis showed that the threshold of hearing in young adults is identical in Germany and in China. It is evident that the effect of aging is reduced in pilots, as compared to people living without technical or industrial noise. Older pilots clearly hear better than people not subjected to technical noise, most prominently at higher frequencies. Together with other observations, it can be concluded that continuous wideband noise reduces the aging of the ear. Long-term exposure to such noise-within limits-appears to be good for the ear.

  10. Modified three-dimensional skull base model with artificial dura mater, cranial nerves, and venous sinuses for training in skull base surgery: technical note.

    PubMed

    Mori, Kentaro; Yamamoto, Takuji; Oyama, Kazutaka; Ueno, Hideaki; Nakao, Yasuaki; Honma, Keiichirou

    2008-12-01

    Experience with dissection of the cavernous sinus and the temporal bone is essential for training in skull base surgery, but the opportunities for cadaver dissection are very limited. A modification of a commercially available prototype three-dimensional (3D) skull base model, made by a selective laser sintering method and incorporating surface details and inner bony structures such as the inner ear structures and air cells, is proposed to include artificial dura mater, cranial nerves, venous sinuses, and the internal carotid artery for such surgical training. The transpetrosal approach and epidural cavernous sinus surgery (Dolenc's technique) were performed on this modified model using a high speed drill or ultrasonic bone curette under an operating microscope. The model could be dissected in almost the same way as a real cadaver. The modified 3D skull base model provides a good educational tool for training in skull base surgery.

  11. Ensemble training to improve recognition using 2D ear

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Middendorff, Christopher; Bowyer, Kevin W.

    2009-05-01

    The ear has gained popularity as a biometric feature due to the robustness of the shape over time and across emotional expression. Popular methods of ear biometrics analyze the ear as a whole, leaving these methods vulnerable to error due to occlusion. Many researchers explore ear recognition using an ensemble, but none present a method for designing the individual parts that comprise the ensemble. In this work, we introduce a method of modifying the ensemble shapes to improve performance. We determine how different properties of an ensemble training system can affect overall performance. We show that ensembles built from small parts will outperform ensembles built with larger parts, and that incorporating a large number of parts improves the performance of the ensemble.

  12. Promoting Collaborative Playful Experimentation through Group Playing by Ear in Higher Education

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Varvarigou, Maria

    2017-01-01

    A group of 46, first-year, primarily classically trained, undergraduate students took part in an exploratory research study on Group Ear Playing (GEP) in higher education. The students attended the "Playing by Ear" component of the Practical Musicianship module, which adopts the materials and strategies on playing by ear in the…

  13. An evaluation of a nurse-led ear care service in primary care: benefits and costs.

    PubMed Central

    Fall, M; Walters, S; Read, S; Deverill, M; Lutman, M; Milner, P; Rodgers, R

    1997-01-01

    BACKGROUND: Nurses trained in ear care provide a new model for the provision of services in general practice, with the aim of cost-effective treatment of minor ear and hearing problems that affect well-being and quality of life. AIM: To compare a prospective observational cohort study measuring health outcomes and resource use for patients with ear or hearing problems treated by nurses trained in ear care with similar patients treated by standard practice. METHOD: A total of 438 Rotherham and 196 Barnsley patients aged 16 years or over received two self-completion questionnaires: questionnaire 1 (Q1) on the day of consultation and questionnaire 2 (Q2) after three weeks. Primary measured outcomes were changes in discomfort and pain; secondary outcomes included the effect on normal life, health status, patient satisfaction, and resources used. RESULTS: After adjusting for differences at Q1, by Q2 there was no statistical evidence of a difference in discomfort and pain reduction, or differential change in health status between areas. Satisfaction with treatment was significantly higher (P = 0.0001) in Rotherham (91%) than in Barnsley (82%). Average total general practitioner (GP) consultations were lower in Rotherham at 0.4 per patient with an average cost of 6.28 Pounds compared with Barnsley at 1.4 per patient and an average cost of 22.53 Pounds (P = 0.04). Barnsley GPs prescribed more drugs per case (6% of total costs compared with 1.5%) and used more systemic antibiotics (P = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Nurses trained in ear care reduce costs, GP workload, and the use of systemic antibiotics, while increasing patient satisfaction with care. With understanding and support from GPs, such nurses are an example of how expanded nursing roles bring benefits to general practice. Nurses trained in ear care reduce treatment costs, reduce the use of antibiotics, educate patients in ear care, increase patient satisfaction, and raise ear awareness. PMID:9519514

  14. Training to Use Voice Onset Time as a Cue to Talker Identification Induces a Left-Ear/Right-Hemisphere Processing Advantage

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Francis, Alexander L.; Driscoll, Courtney

    2006-01-01

    We examined the effect of perceptual training on a well-established hemispheric asymmetry in speech processing. Eighteen listeners were trained to use a within-category difference in voice onset time (VOT) to cue talker identity. Successful learners (n = 8) showed faster response times for stimuli presented only to the left ear than for those…

  15. Training to use voice onset time as a cue to talker identification induces a left-ear/right-hemisphere processing advantage.

    PubMed

    Francis, Alexander L; Driscoll, Courtney

    2006-09-01

    We examined the effect of perceptual training on a well-established hemispheric asymmetry in speech processing. Eighteen listeners were trained to use a within-category difference in voice onset time (VOT) to cue talker identity. Successful learners (n=8) showed faster response times for stimuli presented only to the left ear than for those presented only to the right. The development of a left-ear/right-hemisphere advantage for processing a prototypically phonetic cue supports a model of speech perception in which lateralization is driven by functional demands (talker identification vs. phonetic categorization) rather than by acoustic stimulus properties alone.

  16. Development and Validation of the Musical Ear Training Assessment (META)

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wolf, Anna; Kopiez, Reinhard

    2018-01-01

    In the following study, we have developed an assessment instrument for the practice-dependent skill of analytical hearing following a strict test theoretical validation, resulting in the Musical Ear Training Assessment (META). By means of three pilot studies, a developmental study, and a validation study, we verified a one-dimensional test model…

  17. Does ASA classification impact success rates of endovascular aneurysm repairs?

    PubMed

    Conners, Michael S; Tonnessen, Britt H; Sternbergh, W Charles; Carter, Glen; Yoselevitz, Moises; Money, Samuel R

    2002-09-01

    The purpose of this study was to evaluate the technical success, clinical success, postoperative complication rate, need for a secondary procedure, and mortality rate with endovascular aneurysm repair (EAR), based on the physical status classification scheme advocated by the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA). At a single institution 167 patients underwent attempted EAR. Query of a prospectively maintained database supplemented with a retrospective review of medical records was used to gather statistics pertaining to patient demographics and outcome. In patients selected for EAR on the basis of acceptable anatomy, technical and clinical success rates were not significantly different among the different ASA classifications. Importantly, postoperative complication and 30-day mortality rates do not appear to significantly differ among the different ASA classifications in this patient population.

  18. Correction of Stahl ear deformity using a suture technique.

    PubMed

    Khan, Muhammad Adil Abbas; Jose, Rajive M; Ali, Syed Nadir; Yap, Lok Huei

    2010-09-01

    Correction of partial ear deformities can be a challenging task for the plastic surgeon. There are no standard techniques for correcting many of these deformities, and several different techniques are described in literature. Stahl ear is one such anomaly, characterized by an accessory third crus in the ear cartilage, giving rise to an irregular helical rim. The conventional techniques of correcting this deformity include either excision of the cartilage, repositioning of the cartilage, or scoring techniques. We recently encountered a case of Stahl ear deformity and undertook correction using internal sutures with very good results. The technical details of the surgery are described along with a review of literature on correcting similar anomalies.

  19. High-resolution microendoscope images of middle ear cholesteatoma and surrounding tissue: evaluation of interobserver concordance.

    PubMed

    Bradley, James; Jiang, Nancy; Levy, Lauren; Richards-Kortum, Rebecca; Sikora, Andrew; Smouha, Eric

    2014-04-01

    Investigate how accurately otolaryngologists could differentiate between images obtained with high-resolution microendoscopy (HRME) of ex vivo cholesteatoma specimens and surrounding middle ear epithelium. HRME images of surgically resected cholesteatoma and middle ear epithelium were obtained and otolaryngologists classified these images. Tertiary medical center. Resected cholesteatoma and middle ear epithelium were stained with a contrast agent, proflavine, and HRME images were captured. Specimens were sent for standard histopathology and compared with HRME images. Quality-controlled images were used to assemble a training set. After viewing training images, otolaryngologists without prior cholesteatoma HRME experience reviewed and classified test images. Ten cholesteatoma and 9 middle ear specimens were collected, of which 17 representative cholesteatoma and 19 middle ear epithelium images were extracted for a testing set. Qualitative analysis for concordance between HRME images and histological images yielded a strong correlation between modalities. The mean accuracy of all reviewers in correctly identifying images was 95% (95% confidence interval [CI], 92%-98%). The sensitivity to correctly detect cholesteatoma images was 98% (95% CI, 93%-100%), and the specificity was 92% (95% CI, 87%-97%). The Fleiss kappa interrater reliability score was 0.83, (95% CI, 0.77-0.89). Medical professionals can quickly be trained to accurately distinguish between HRME images of cholesteatoma and normal middle ear epithelium, both of which have distinct imaging characteristics. Real-time HRME optical imaging can potentially improve the results of otologic surgery by allowing for extirpation of cholesteatomas while eliminating residual disease.

  20. Relationships between Grades in the Components of Freshman Music Theory and Selected Background Variables.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Harrison, Carole S.

    1990-01-01

    Determines how academic ability, music experience, and musical aptitude contribute to grade prediction in the written-work, ear-training, sight-singing, and keyboard-harmonics portions of two college freshman music theory courses. Finds Scholastic Aptitude Test mathematics scores the best predictor of grades in written work and ear training.…

  1. Behavioral and electrophysiological auditory processing measures in traumatic brain injury after acoustically controlled auditory training: a long-term study

    PubMed Central

    Figueiredo, Carolina Calsolari; de Andrade, Adriana Neves; Marangoni-Castan, Andréa Tortosa; Gil, Daniela; Suriano, Italo Capraro

    2015-01-01

    ABSTRACT Objective To investigate the long-term efficacy of acoustically controlled auditory training in adults after tarumatic brain injury. Methods A total of six audioogically normal individuals aged between 20 and 37 years were studied. They suffered severe traumatic brain injury with diffuse axional lesion and underwent an acoustically controlled auditory training program approximately one year before. The results obtained in the behavioral and electrophysiological evaluation of auditory processing immediately after acoustically controlled auditory training were compared to reassessment findings, one year later. Results Quantitative analysis of auditory brainsteim response showed increased absolute latency of all waves and interpeak intervals, bilaterraly, when comparing both evaluations. Moreover, increased amplitude of all waves, and the wave V amplitude was statistically significant for the right ear, and wave III for the left ear. As to P3, decreased latency and increased amplitude were found for both ears in reassessment. The previous and current behavioral assessment showed similar results, except for the staggered spondaic words in the left ear and the amount of errors on the dichotic consonant-vowel test. Conclusion The acoustically controlled auditory training was effective in the long run, since better latency and amplitude results were observed in the electrophysiological evaluation, in addition to stability of behavioral measures after one-year training. PMID:26676270

  2. Ear Advantage for Musical Location and Relative Pitch: Effects of Musical Training and Attention.

    PubMed

    Hutchison, Joanna L; Hubbard, Timothy L; Hubbard, Nicholas A; Rypma, Bart

    2017-06-01

    Trained musicians have been found to exhibit a right-ear advantage for high tones and a left-ear advantage for low tones. We investigated whether this right/high, left/low pattern of musical processing advantage exists in listeners who had varying levels of musical experience, and whether such a pattern might be modulated by attentional strategy. A dichotic listening paradigm was used in which different melodic sequences were presented to each ear, and listeners attended to (a) the left ear or the right ear or (b) the higher pitched tones or the lower pitched tones. Listeners judged whether tone-to-tone transitions within each melodic sequence moved upward or downward in pitch. Only musically experienced listeners could adequately judge the direction of successive pitch transitions when attending to a specific ear; however, all listeners could judge the direction of successive pitch transitions within a high-tone stream or a low-tone stream. Overall, listeners exhibited greater accuracy when attending to relatively higher pitches, but there was no evidence to support a right/high, left/low bias. Results were consistent with effects of attentional strategy rather than an ear advantage for high or low tones. Implications for a potential performer/audience paradox in listening space are considered.

  3. Use of a plastic eraser for ear reconstruction training.

    PubMed

    Erdogan, Basar; Morioka, Daichi; Hamada, Taishi; Kusano, Taro; Win, Khin Malar

    2018-01-01

    Microtia reconstruction is a challenging procedure, especially in developing nations. The most complex part is learning how to fabricate a framework from costal cartilage. We herein propose a training regimen for ear reconstruction with the use of a plastic eraser. The texture of a plastic eraser made from polyvinyl chloride is similar to that of human costal cartilage. The first step of the training is carving out the sixth through eighth rib cartilages from a block of plastic eraser. The second step is a fabrication of the framework from plastic rib cartilages, referring to a template from the intact auricle. As plastic erasers are inexpensive and universally available, inexperienced surgeons can repeatedly perform this framework training. Following several of these training sessions in developing nations, the co-authors and local surgeons successfully performed their microtia reconstructions in a reasonable operative time. This realistic carving model allows surgeons to gain experience before performing an actual ear reconstruction, even in resource-constrained circumstances.

  4. Intractable depression successfully treated with a combination of autogenic training and high-dose antidepressant in department of otorhinolaryngology: a case report

    PubMed Central

    2009-01-01

    Introduction Patients suffering from ear discomfort are commonly encountered in the department of otolaryngology. If various clinical examinations do not reveal any objective findings, then the patients are referred to the department of internal medicine or psychiatry. Psychotherapy is recommended in some cases. This paper describes the successful administration of autogenic training in a patient suffering from ear discomfort due to major depression. Case presentation We present a case of intractable depression that was successfully treated with a combination of psychotherapy, administered by a clinical psychologist, and high-dose antidepressant. The patient was a 36-year-old female with hearing discomfort in her left ear. In 2003, she experienced insomnia and an appetite loss, and her condition was diagnosed as major depression along with an avoidant personality disorder. Her depression has not been improved with antidepressant treatment for 3 years in department of psychosomatic medicine. She was referred to our department because of ear discomfort in her left ear. There was no abnormality in her physical examinations. She wanted to be treated in department of otorhinolaryngology. We increased the dose of fluvoxamine maleate up to 200 mg/day, and introduced cognitive therapy and autogenic training by a clinical psychologist. Eventually, her depressive state as well as the hearing complaint was markedly alleviated. Conclusion Autogenic training can be a viable and acceptable treatment option for patients who fail to respond to other therapies. This case emphasizes the importance of autogenic training as a method to control physical symptom of depression. PMID:20184684

  5. Intractable depression successfully treated with a combination of autogenic training and high-dose antidepressant in department of otorhinolaryngology: a case report.

    PubMed

    Goto, Fumiyuki; Nakai, Kimiko; Murakami, Masato; Ogawa, Kaoru

    2009-08-14

    Patients suffering from ear discomfort are commonly encountered in the department of otolaryngology. If various clinical examinations do not reveal any objective findings, then the patients are referred to the department of internal medicine or psychiatry. Psychotherapy is recommended in some cases. This paper describes the successful administration of autogenic training in a patient suffering from ear discomfort due to major depression. We present a case of intractable depression that was successfully treated with a combination of psychotherapy, administered by a clinical psychologist, and high-dose antidepressant. The patient was a 36-year-old female with hearing discomfort in her left ear. In 2003, she experienced insomnia and an appetite loss, and her condition was diagnosed as major depression along with an avoidant personality disorder. Her depression has not been improved with antidepressant treatment for 3 years in department of psychosomatic medicine. She was referred to our department because of ear discomfort in her left ear. There was no abnormality in her physical examinations. She wanted to be treated in department of otorhinolaryngology. We increased the dose of fluvoxamine maleate up to 200 mg/day, and introduced cognitive therapy and autogenic training by a clinical psychologist. Eventually, her depressive state as well as the hearing complaint was markedly alleviated. Autogenic training can be a viable and acceptable treatment option for patients who fail to respond to other therapies. This case emphasizes the importance of autogenic training as a method to control physical symptom of depression.

  6. The Evaluation of Synchronous Distance Ear Training Compared to the Traditional Ear Training

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Karahan, Ahmet Suat

    2014-01-01

    It is clearly seen that distance education, spreading all over the world recently, is increasingly used in music education process. That the method brings great flexibility to the teaching-learning process destroys the limits depending on time and space and it can easily reach wide audiences and so on outstanding features are the main factors…

  7. The Effects of Computerized and Traditional Ear Training Programs on Aural Skills of Elementary Students

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kariuki, Patrick N.; Ross, Zachary R.

    2017-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of computerized and traditional ear training methods on the aural skills abilities of elementary music students. The sample consisted of 20 students who were randomly assigned to either an experimental or control group. The experimental group was taught for five sessions using computerized…

  8. Internationalizing the Music Course: MUSC 2022 Ear Training and Sight Singing through an International Lens

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Noda, Mimi

    2017-01-01

    This paper reports on the process by which the curriculum for the 16-week, one semester course, MUSC 2022, Ear Training and Sight Singing, was internationalized. Since the world is increasingly becoming a global village, I wanted students to expand their awareness of other countries, along with the music and history of those countries, through…

  9. Test-Retest Reliability and Minimal Detectable Change of Randomized Dichotic Digits in Learning-Disabled Children: Implications for Dichotic Listening Training.

    PubMed

    Mahdavi, Mohammad Ebrahim; Pourbakht, Akram; Parand, Akram; Jalaie, Shohreh

    2018-03-01

    Evaluation of dichotic listening to digits is a common part of many studies for diagnosis and managing auditory processing disorders in children. Previous researchers have verified test-retest relative reliability of dichotic digits results in normal children and adults. However, detecting intervention-related changes in the ear scores after dichotic listening training requires information regarding trial-to-trial typical variation of individual ear scores that is estimated using indices of absolute reliability. Previous studies have not addressed absolute reliability of dichotic listening results. To compare the results of the Persian randomized dichotic digits test (PRDDT) and its relative and absolute indices of reliability between typical achieving (TA) and learning-disabled (LD) children. A repeated measures observational study. Fifteen LD children were recruited from a previously performed study with age range of 7-12 yr. The control group consisted of 15 TA schoolchildren with age range of 8-11 yr. The Persian randomized dichotic digits test was administered on the children under free recall condition in two test sessions 7-12 days apart. We compared the average of the ear scores and ear advantage between TA and LD children. Relative indices of reliability included Pearson's correlation and intraclass correlation (ICC 2,1 ) coefficients and absolute reliability was evaluated by calculation of standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimal detectable change (MDC) using the raw ear scores. The Pearson correlation coefficient indicated that in both groups of children the ear scores of test and retest sessions were strongly and positively (greater than +0.8) correlated. The ear scores showed excellent ICC coefficient of consistency (0.78-0.82) and fair to excellent ICC coefficient of absolute agreement (0.62-0.74) in TA children and excellent ICC coefficients of consistency and absolute agreement in LD children (0.76-0.87). SEM and SEM% of the ear scores in TA children were 1.46 and 1.44% for the right ear and 4.68 and 5.47% for the left ear. SEM and SEM% of the ear scores in LD children were 4.55 and 5.88% for the right ear to 7.56 and 12.81% for the left ear. MDC and MDC% of the ear scores in TA children varied from 4.03 and 3.99% for the right ear to 12.93 and 15.13% for the left ear. MDC and MDC% of the ear scores in LD children varied from 12.57 and 16.25% for the right ear to 20.89 and 35.39% for the left ear. The LD children indicated test-retest relative reliability as high as TA children in the ear scores measured by PRDDT. However, within-subject variations of the ear scores calculated by indices of absolute reliability were considerably higher in LD children versus TA children. The results of the current study could have implications for detecting real training-related changes in the ear scores. American Academy of Audiology

  10. Survey of Speech-Language Pathology Graduate Program Training in Outer and Middle Ear Screening.

    PubMed

    Serpanos, Yula C; Senzer, Deborah

    2015-08-01

    The purpose of this study was to determine the national training practices of speech-language pathology graduate programs in outer and middle ear screening. Directors of all American Speech-Language-Hearing Association-accredited speech-language pathology graduate programs (N = 254; Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology, 2013) were surveyed on instructional formats in outer and middle ear screening. The graduate speech-language pathology program survey yielded 84 (33.1%) responses. Results indicated that some programs do not provide any training in the areas of conventional screening otoscopy using a handheld otoscope (15.5%; n = 13) or screening tympanometry (11.9%; n = 10), whereas close to one half (46.4%; n = 39) reported no training in screening video otoscopy. Outcomes revealed that approximately one third or more of speech-language pathology graduate programs do not provide experiential opportunities in screening handheld otoscopy (36.9%) or tympanometry (32.1%), and most (78.6%) do not provide experiential opportunities in video otoscopy. The implication from the graduate speech-language pathology program survey findings is that some speech-language pathologists will graduate from academic programs without the acquired knowledge or experiential learning required to establish skill in 1 or more areas of screening otoscopy and tympanometry. Graduate speech-language pathology programs should consider appropriate training opportunities for students to acquire and demonstrate skill in outer and middle ear screening.

  11. 32 CFR 250.9 - Notice to accompany the dissemination of export-controlled technical data.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... Commerce for items controlled by the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), may constitute a violation of..., the penalty for unlawful export of items or information controlled under the EAR is a fine of up to $1... resulting from manufacture or use for any purpose of any product, article, system, or material involving...

  12. 32 CFR 250.9 - Notice to accompany the dissemination of export-controlled technical data.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... Commerce for items controlled by the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), may constitute a violation of..., the penalty for unlawful export of items or information controlled under the EAR is a fine of up to $1... resulting from manufacture or use for any purpose of any product, article, system, or material involving...

  13. 32 CFR 250.9 - Notice to accompany the dissemination of export-controlled technical data.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... Commerce for items controlled by the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), may constitute a violation of..., the penalty for unlawful export of items or information controlled under the EAR is a fine of up to $1... resulting from manufacture or use for any purpose of any product, article, system, or material involving...

  14. 32 CFR 250.9 - Notice to accompany the dissemination of export-controlled technical data.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... Commerce for items controlled by the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), may constitute a violation of..., the penalty for unlawful export of items or information controlled under the EAR is a fine of up to $1... resulting from manufacture or use for any purpose of any product, article, system, or material involving...

  15. 48 CFR 252.204-7008 - Export-Controlled Items.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ...) Defense items, defined in the Arms Export Control Act, 22 U.S.C. 2778(j)(4)(A), as defense articles, defense services, and related technical data, and further defined in the ITAR, 22 CFR part 120. (2) Items, defined in the EAR as “commodities, software, and technology,” terms that are also defined in the EAR, 15...

  16. 48 CFR 252.204-7008 - Export-Controlled Items.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ...) Defense items, defined in the Arms Export Control Act, 22 U.S.C. 2778(j)(4)(A), as defense articles, defense services, and related technical data, and further defined in the ITAR, 22 CFR part 120. (2) Items, defined in the EAR as “commodities, software, and technology,” terms that are also defined in the EAR, 15...

  17. 48 CFR 252.204-7008 - Export-Controlled Items.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ...) Defense items, defined in the Arms Export Control Act, 22 U.S.C. 2778(j)(4)(A), as defense articles, defense services, and related technical data, and further defined in the ITAR, 22 CFR part 120. (2) Items, defined in the EAR as “commodities, software, and technology,” terms that are also defined in the EAR, 15...

  18. Emergency Victim Care. A Training Manual for Emergency Medical Technicians. Module 10. Injuries of the Eye, Ear, Nose, Abdomen, Central Nervous System and Genitalia. Burns and Environmental Injuries. Revised.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ohio State Dept. of Education, Columbus. Div. of Vocational Education.

    This training manual for emergency medical technicians, one of 14 modules that comprise the Emergency Victim Care textbook, covers injuries of the eyes, ears, nose, abdomen, central nervous system (CNS), and genitalia; burns; and environmental injuries. Objectives stated for the two chapters are for the student to be able to describe procedures…

  19. 32 CFR 250.7 - Pertinent portions of Export Administration Regulations (EAR).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... form, including (1) Data released orally or visually at open conferences, lectures, trade show, or... SECRETARY OF DEFENSE (CONTINUED) MISCELLANEOUS WITHHOLDING OF UNCLASSIFIED TECHNICAL DATA FROM PUBLIC... technical data under the authority of this part. Export Administration Regulations 15 CFR 379.3 General...

  20. 32 CFR 250.7 - Pertinent portions of Export Administration Regulations (EAR).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... form, including (1) Data released orally or visually at open conferences, lectures, trade show, or... SECRETARY OF DEFENSE (CONTINUED) MISCELLANEOUS WITHHOLDING OF UNCLASSIFIED TECHNICAL DATA FROM PUBLIC... technical data under the authority of this part. Export Administration Regulations 15 CFR 379.3 General...

  1. 32 CFR 250.7 - Pertinent portions of Export Administration Regulations (EAR).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... form, including (1) Data released orally or visually at open conferences, lectures, trade show, or... SECRETARY OF DEFENSE (CONTINUED) MISCELLANEOUS WITHHOLDING OF UNCLASSIFIED TECHNICAL DATA FROM PUBLIC... technical data under the authority of this part. Export Administration Regulations 15 CFR 379.3 General...

  2. 75 FR 31678 - Export Administration Regulations: Technical Corrections

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-06-04

    ... and 774 [Docket No. 0907271167-91198-01] RIN 0694-AE69 Export Administration Regulations: Technical... clarifies language concerning the de minimis provisions of the Export Administration Regulations and certain... Items The Export Administration Regulations (EAR) generally do not apply to items that were made and are...

  3. The Electronically Activated Recorder (EAR): A Method for the Naturalistic Observation of Daily Social Behavior

    PubMed Central

    Mehl, Matthias R.

    2016-01-01

    This article reviews the Electronically Activated Recorder or EAR as an ambulatory ecological momentary assessment tool for the real-world observation of daily behavior. Technically, the EAR is an audio recorder that intermittently records snippets of ambient sounds while participants go about their lives. Conceptually, it is a naturalistic observation method that yields an acoustic log of a person’s day as it unfolds. The power of the EAR lies in unobtrusively collecting authentic real-life observational data. In preserving a high degree of naturalism at the level of the raw recordings, it resembles ethnographic methods; through its sampling and coding, it enables larger empirical studies. The article provides an overview of the EAR method, reviews its validity, utility, and limitations, and discusses it in the context of current developments in ambulatory assessment, specifically the emerging field of mobile sensing. PMID:28529411

  4. The Electronically Activated Recorder (EAR): A Method for the Naturalistic Observation of Daily Social Behavior.

    PubMed

    Mehl, Matthias R

    2017-04-01

    This article reviews the Electronically Activated Recorder or EAR as an ambulatory ecological momentary assessment tool for the real-world observation of daily behavior. Technically, the EAR is an audio recorder that intermittently records snippets of ambient sounds while participants go about their lives. Conceptually, it is a naturalistic observation method that yields an acoustic log of a person's day as it unfolds. The power of the EAR lies in unobtrusively collecting authentic real-life observational data. In preserving a high degree of naturalism at the level of the raw recordings, it resembles ethnographic methods; through its sampling and coding, it enables larger empirical studies. The article provides an overview of the EAR method, reviews its validity, utility, and limitations, and discusses it in the context of current developments in ambulatory assessment, specifically the emerging field of mobile sensing.

  5. Optimizing Hearing Loss Prevention and Treatment, Rehabilitation and Re - Integration of Soldiers with Hearing Impairment

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2016-10-01

    for whom hearing loss is more often associated with middle ear disease , but is also relevant to assess the aeration system of the ear in with ...being, the ability to cope with post-traumatic stress and the overall quality of life. Modern Militaries have highly trained and experienced specialists...impaired in that environment. In the case of evaluating the impact of noise-induced hearing loss, this would mean finding trained operators with all

  6. The Effects of Bug-in-Ear Coaching on Pre-Service Behavior Analysts' Use of Functional Communication Training.

    PubMed

    Artman-Meeker, Kathleen; Rosenberg, Nancy; Badgett, Natalie; Yang, Xueyan; Penney, Ashley

    2017-09-01

    Behavior analysts play an important role in supporting the behavior and learning of young children with disabilities in natural settings. However, there is very little research related specifically to developing the skills and competencies needed by pre-service behavior analysts. This study examined the effects of "bug-in-ear" (BIE) coaching on pre-service behavior analysts' implementation of functional communication training with pre-school children with autism in their classrooms. BIE coaching was associated with increases in the rate of functional communication training trials each intern initiated per session and in the fidelity with which interns implemented functional communication training. Adults created more intentional opportunities for children to communicate, and adults provided more systematic instruction around those opportunities.

  7. Inner Ear Barotrauma After Underwater Pool Competency Training Without the Use of Compressed Air Case and Review.

    PubMed

    McIntire, Sean; Boujie, Lee

    2016-01-01

    Inner ear barotrauma can occur when the gas-filled chambers of the ear have difficulty equalizing pressure with the outside environment after changes in ambient pressure. This can transpire even with small pressure changes. Hypobaric or hyperbaric environments can place significant stress on the structures of the middle and inner ear. If methods to equalize pressure between the middle ear and other connected gas-filled spaces (i.e., Valsalva maneuver) are unsuccessful, middle ear overpressurization can occur. This force can be transmitted to the fluid-filled inner ear, making it susceptible to injury. Damage specifically to the structures of the vestibulocochlear system can lead to symptoms of vertigo, hearing loss, and tinnitus. This article discusses the case of a 23-year-old male Marine who presented with symptoms of nausea and gait instability after performing underwater pool competency exercises to a maximum depth of 13 feet, without breathing compressed air. Diagnosis and management of inner ear barotrauma are reviewed, as is differentiation from inner ear decompression sickness. 2016.

  8. World Health Organization and Its Initiative for Ear and Hearing Care.

    PubMed

    Chadha, Shelly; Cieza, Alarcos

    2018-06-01

    The World Health Organization (WHO) addresses ear diseases and hearing loss through its program on prevention of deafness and hearing loss. Recently, the World Health Assembly called for action at global and national levels to tackle the rising prevalence and adverse impact of unaddressed hearing loss. Following a public health approach toward this issue, WHO is focusing on i) raising awareness among policymakers and civil society; and ii) providing technical support to countries for promoting hearing care. Meeting this challenge requires a coordinated global effort with all stakeholders working together to make ear and hearing care accessible to all. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  9. Fashion, science and technical change: the history of the treatment of glue ear.

    PubMed

    Black, N A

    1985-02-01

    One reason for the current epidemic in the rate of surgery for glue ear in children is that a shift in treatment has taken place from non-surgical to surgical methods. An historical review of the treatment of this condition reveals the existence of previous 'surgical epidemics' and the importance of two particular factors-technical developments, such as the design of tympanostomy tubes and the introduction of antibacterial drugs; and the lure of panaceas such as ionizing radiation. In addition, it reveals how medical practice is, like most human behaviour, subject to fashion. Despite this, there is a constant desire by practitioners to be adjudged 'scientific' in their work, and definitions of science are equally susceptible to change over time.

  10. Orienting movements in area 9 identified by long-train ICMS.

    PubMed

    Lanzilotto, M; Perciavalle, V; Lucchetti, C

    2015-03-01

    The effect of intracortical microstimulation has been studied in several cortical areas from motor to sensory areas. The frontal pole has received particular attention, and several microstimulation studies have been conducted in the frontal eye field, supplementary eye field, and the premotor ear-eye field, but no microstimulation studies concerning area 9 are currently available in the literature. In the present study, to fill up this gap, electrical microstimulation was applied to area 9 in two macaque monkeys using long-train pulses of 500-700-800 and 1,000 ms, during two different experimental conditions: a spontaneous condition, while the animals were not actively fixating on a visual target, and during a visual fixation task. In these experiments, we identified backward ear movements, goal-directed eye movements, and the development of head forces. Kinematic parameters for ear and eye movements overlapped in the spontaneous condition, but they were different during the visual fixation task. In this condition, ear and eye kinematics have an opposite behavior: movement amplitude, duration, and maximal and mean velocities increase during a visual fixation task for the ear, while they decrease for the eye. Therefore, a top-down visual attention engagement could modify the kinematic parameters for these two effectors. Stimulation with the longest train durations, i.e., 800/1,000 ms, evokes not only the highest eye amplitude, but also a significant development of head forces. In this research article, we propose a new vision of the frontal oculomotor fields, speculating a role for area 9 in the control of goal-directed orienting behaviors and gaze shift control.

  11. Benchmarks for the Dichotic Sentence Identification test in Brazilian Portuguese for ear and age.

    PubMed

    Andrade, Adriana Neves de; Gil, Daniela; Iorio, Maria Cecilia Martinelli

    2015-01-01

    Dichotic listening tests should be used in local languages and adapted for the population. Standardize the Brazilian Portuguese version of the Dichotic Sentence Identification test in normal listeners, comparing the performance for age and ear. This prospective study included 200 normal listeners divided into four groups according to age: 13-19 years (GI), 20-29 years (GII), 30-39 years (GIII), and 40-49 years (GIV). The Dichotic Sentence Identification was applied in four stages: training, binaural integration and directed sound from right and left. Better results for the right ear were observed in the stages of binaural integration in all assessed groups. There was a negative correlation between age and percentage of correct responses in both ears for free report and training. The worst performance in all stages of the test was observed for the age group 40-49 years old. Reference values for the Brazilian Portuguese version of the Dichotic Sentence Identification test in normal listeners aged 13-49 years were established according to age, ear, and test stage; they should be used as benchmarks when evaluating individuals with these characteristics. Copyright © 2015 Associação Brasileira de Otorrinolaringologia e Cirurgia Cérvico-Facial. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

  12. Optical coherence tomography for imaging the middle and inner ears: A technical review

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ramier, Antoine; Rosowski, John J.; Yun, Seok-Hyun

    2018-05-01

    Optical coherence tomography (OCT), a minimally-invasive, high-speed, high resolution imaging modality, is becoming increasingly popular in the field of hearing research and otology. This review describes the history and state of the art of OCT for applications to understanding the mechanics of hearing and visualizing pathologies in the middle and inner ears. We will also discuss some of the recent developments that may accelerate the adoption of OCT to this field.

  13. Auricular reconstruction for microtia: Part II. Surgical techniques.

    PubMed

    Walton, Robert L; Beahm, Elisabeth K

    2002-07-01

    Reconstruction of the microtic ear represents one of the most demanding challenges in reconstructive surgery. In this review the two most commonly used techniques for ear reconstruction, the Brent and Nagata techniques, are addressed in detail. Unique to this endeavor, the originator of each technique has been allowed to submit representative case material and to address the pros and cons of the other's technique. What follows is a detailed, insightful overview of microtia reconstruction, as a state of the art. The review then details commonly encountered problems in ear reconstruction and pertinent technical points. Finally, a glimpse into the future is offered with an accounting of the advances made in tissue engineering as this technology applies to auricular reconstruction.

  14. Technical innovations in ear reconstruction using a skin expander with autogenous cartilage grafts.

    PubMed

    Dashan, Yu; Haiyue, Jiang; Qinghua, Yang; Bo, Pan; Lin, Lin; Tailing, Wang; Yanmei, Wang; Xiao, Qin; Hongxing, Zhuang

    2008-01-01

    Pioneers such as Tanzer and Brent have established the foundations of microtia reconstruction using an autogenous costal cartilage framework. The framework and its skin coverage are the two limiting factors in ear reconstruction. At the present time autogenous rib cartilage and mastoid skin are still first choice materials for most surgeons. They have the combined advantages of well-matched texture and colour. To reconstruct a symmetrical, accurate, prominent auricle and minimise as much as possible the chest wall deformity caused by rib cartilage harvesting, we set out to improve our techniques for cartilaginous framework definition and to use the remnant ear to enhance the projection of the reconstructed ear. Since 2000, 342 cases (366 ears) were treated using our current techniques. Data pertaining to complications were recorded. Final results were assessed a minimum of 1 year postoperatively. The follow-up period ranged from 1 to 6 years. Most of the patients with microtia were satisfied with the results of their ear reconstruction. In conclusion, our techniques help to reduce the quantity of rib cartilage needed to fabricate ear framework and minimise chest wall deformity. The frameworks are accurate, prominent and stable. Reconstructed ears are similar in colour and appearance to the normal side. Our innovations are practical and reliable for microtia reconstruction using skin expanders in combination with a sculpted autogenous rib cartilage framework.

  15. Surgical and Technical Modalities for Hearing Restoration in Ear Malformations.

    PubMed

    Dazert, Stefan; Thomas, Jan Peter; Volkenstein, Stefan

    2015-12-01

    Malformations of the external and middle ear often go along with an aesthetic and functional handicap. Independent of additional aesthetic procedures, a successful functional hearing restoration leads to a tremendous gain in quality of life for affected patients. The introduction of implantable hearing systems (bone conduction and middle ear devices) offers new therapeutic options in this field. We focus on functional rehabilitation of patients with malformations, either by surgical reconstruction or the use of different implantable hearing devices, depending on the disease itself and the severity of malformation as well as hearing impairment. Patients with an open ear canal and minor malformations are good candidates for surgical hearing restoration of middle ear structures with passive titanium or autologous implants. In cases with complete fibrous or bony atresia of the ear canal, the most promising functional outcome and gain in quality of life can be expected with an active middle ear implant or a bone conduction device combined with a surgical aesthetic rehabilitation in a single or multi-step procedure. Although the surgical procedure for bone conduction devices is straightforward and safe, more sophisticated operations for active middle ear implants (e.g., Vibrant Soundbridge, MED-EL, Innsbruck, Austria) provide an improved speech discrimination in noise and the ability of sound localization compared with bone conduction devices where the stimulation reaches both cochleae. Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

  16. Nursing students' perceptions of soft skills training in Ghana.

    PubMed

    Laari, Luke; Dube, Barbara M

    2017-09-22

    The quality of nursing care rendered today is markedly reducing and the amount of time spent with patients listening to and explaining issues concerning their conditions is gradually diminishing. The therapeutic touch and the listening ear of the nurse are no longer accessible to the patient. Understanding what non-technical skills are and their relevance for healthcare practitioners has become a new area of consideration. Although recent literature has highlighted the necessity of introducing soft skills training and assessment within medical education, nursing education is yet to fully embrace this skills training. The aim of this study was to explore nursing students' understanding of the concept of soft skills and to acquire their perception on the need for soft skills training to promote quality nursing care. A quantitative research design with descriptive and explorative strategies was used. One hundred and ten nursing students were sampled after permission to conduct the study was requested and obtained from the University of KwaZulu-Natal Ethics Committee. The results indicated that a majority (68.8%) of respondents understood the concept of soft skills and agreed with the definition of 'soft skills'. They furthermore agreed that soft skills should be part of the training that student nurses receive during their professional training. The study revealed that there is a need for nursing students to be educated in soft skills and that this will enhance their job performances in the clinical environment and improve the way in which they communicate with their clients.

  17. The plastic ear and perceptual relearning in auditory spatial perception

    PubMed Central

    Carlile, Simon

    2014-01-01

    The auditory system of adult listeners has been shown to accommodate to altered spectral cues to sound location which presumably provides the basis for recalibration to changes in the shape of the ear over a life time. Here we review the role of auditory and non-auditory inputs to the perception of sound location and consider a range of recent experiments looking at the role of non-auditory inputs in the process of accommodation to these altered spectral cues. A number of studies have used small ear molds to modify the spectral cues that result in significant degradation in localization performance. Following chronic exposure (10–60 days) performance recovers to some extent and recent work has demonstrated that this occurs for both audio-visual and audio-only regions of space. This begs the questions as to the teacher signal for this remarkable functional plasticity in the adult nervous system. Following a brief review of influence of the motor state in auditory localization, we consider the potential role of auditory-motor learning in the perceptual recalibration of the spectral cues. Several recent studies have considered how multi-modal and sensory-motor feedback might influence accommodation to altered spectral cues produced by ear molds or through virtual auditory space stimulation using non-individualized spectral cues. The work with ear molds demonstrates that a relatively short period of training involving audio-motor feedback (5–10 days) significantly improved both the rate and extent of accommodation to altered spectral cues. This has significant implications not only for the mechanisms by which this complex sensory information is encoded to provide spatial cues but also for adaptive training to altered auditory inputs. The review concludes by considering the implications for rehabilitative training with hearing aids and cochlear prosthesis. PMID:25147497

  18. Technical devices in otoplasty to obtain a natural appearance.

    PubMed

    Zaoli, G

    1997-07-01

    This article outlines the importance given by plastic surgeons to correcting the external ear malformations. The objective is to create ears with a normal appearance. Despite more than 200 methods proposed by different authors, a procedure for otoplasty that gives constant and lasting surgical results has not yet been found. Following some critical remarks, both anatomical and surgical, the author proposes a method that, in his experience, gives good results, more natural and reliable, and is free from failures.

  19. Experiments and improvements of ear recognition based on local texture descriptors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Benzaoui, Amir; Adjabi, Insaf; Boukrouche, Abdelhani

    2017-04-01

    The morphology of the human ear presents rich and stable information embedded on the curved 3-D surface and has as a result attracted considerable attention from forensic scientists and engineers as a biometric recognition modality. However, recognizing a person's identity from the morphology of the human ear in unconstrained environments, with insufficient and incomplete training data, strong person-specificity, and high within-range variance, can be very challenging. Following our previous work on ear recognition based on local texture descriptors, we propose to use anatomical and embryological information about the human ear in order to find the autonomous components and the locations where large interindividual variations can be detected. Embryology is particularly relevant to our approach as it provides information on the possible changes that can be observed in the external structure of the ear. We experimented with three publicly available databases, namely: IIT Delhi-1, IIT Delhi-2, and USTB-1, consisting of several ear benchmarks acquired under varying conditions and imaging qualities. The experiments show excellent results, beyond the state of the art.

  20. Effects of speech in noise and dichotic listening intervention programs on central auditory processing disorders.

    PubMed

    Putter-Katz, Hanna; Adi-Bensaid, Limor; Feldman, Irit; Hildesheimer, Minka

    2008-01-01

    Twenty children with central auditory processing disorders [(C)APD] were subjected to a structured intervention program of listening skills in quiet and in noise. Their performance was compared to that of a control group of 10 children with (C)APD with no special treatment. Pretests were conducted in quiet and in degraded listening conditions (speech noise and competing speech). The (C)APD management approach was integrative and included top-down and bottom-up strategies. It focused on environmental modifications, remediation techniques, and compensatory strategies. Training was conducted with monosyllabic and polysyllabic words, sentences and phrases in quiet and in noise. Comparisons of pre- and post-management measures indicated increase in speech recognition performance in background noise and competing speech for the treatment group. This improvement was exhibited for both ears. A significant difference between ears was found with the left ear showing improvement in both the short and the long versions of competing sentence tests and the right ear performing better in the long competing sentences only following intervention. No changes were documented for the control group. These findings add to a growing body of literature suggesting that interactive auditory training can improve listening skills.

  1. Cauliflower Ear and Skin Infections among Wrestlers in Tehran.

    PubMed

    Kordi, Ramin; Mansournia, Mohammad Ali; Nourian, Roh Allah; Wallace, W Angus

    2007-01-01

    The purpose of the study was to describe the magnitude of the selected sports medicine problems (i.e. cauliflower ear and skin infections) among wrestlers in Tehran. A number of 411 wrestlers were randomly selected from wrestling clubs in Tehran employing cluster sample setting method. The participants were interviewed using a specially designed and validated questionnaire. Nearly half of the participants (44%) had "cauliflower ears". Only 23% of these participants had received any kind of treatment for their acute ear haematomas that are known to result in "cauliflower ears". The prevalence of reported hearing loss among participants with cauliflower ears (11.5%, 95%CI: 6.9 to 16.2) was significantly more than this prevalence among those participants without cauliflower ears (1.8%, 95%CI: 0.1 to 3.5) (p < 0.05). More than half of the participants (52%) had skin infection diagnosed by a physician during the previous year. This study has identified evidence of an increase in hearing loss as a possible side effect of either cauliflower ear or ear injury in wrestling in Iran. There has been an outbreak of ringworm and there is a significant potential for an outbreak of impetigo among wrestlers in Tehran. Key pointsSkin infections are prevalent among wrestlers in Tehran.Commonly wrestlers in Tehran continue to carry out wrestling training while affected by skin infections.Cauliflower ear "is common among wrestlers in Tehran.More research is needed to investigate hearing loss as a possible side effect of either cauliflower ear or ear injury in wrestling in Iran.

  2. Reconstruction of Punitive Ear Amputations in Uganda: A Unique Surgical Burden of Disease.

    PubMed

    Dusseldorp, Joseph; Hodges, Andrew; Patel, Anup; Marchac, Alexandre; Firmin, Françoise

    2015-06-01

    Over the course of 12 months, a plastic surgical team from Paris, France, undertook 2 intensive ear reconstruction missions with plastic surgeons from the CoRSU Rehabilitation Hospital in Uganda. A cohort of over 30 adult women was assessed having been subjected to ear amputations by members of the Lords Resistance Army in Northern Uganda in the 1990s. The patients were identified, mobilized, and transferred to Kampala for surgery by a charitable arm of the Watoto Church, known as Living Hope. The surgical team performed 15 ear reconstruction cases during the first 1-week mission and 16 ear reconstruction cases during the second 1-week mission. All cases were reconstructed successfully using the 2-stage autologous auricular reconstruction method advocated by the senior author (FF). Local skin was used to cover the costal cartilage framework in the first stage without need for temporo-parietal fascial flaps. Technical challenges included the older age of patients and ossified costal cartilage, high prevalence of HIV positivity, bilateral amputation, and difficulty of surgical follow-up. The main modifications to standard practice were routine pre-op testing of the costal cartilage, pre-op viral load and CD4 count screening in HIV-positive patients, simultaneous bilateral first-stage ear reconstruction, prolonged hospital stay, and implementation of routine surgical counting procedures.

  3. Effects of Contextual Sight-Singing and Aural Skills Training on Error-Detection Abilities.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Sheldon, Deborah A.

    1998-01-01

    Examines the effects of contextual sight-singing and ear training on pitch and rhythm error detection abilities among undergraduate instrumental music education majors. Shows that additional training produced better error detection, particularly with rhythm errors and in one-part examples. Maintains that differences attributable to texture were…

  4. The measurement of Eustachian tube function in a hyperbaric chamber using an ear canal microphone.

    PubMed

    Fischer, Hans-Georg; Koch, Andreas; Kähler, Wataru; Pohl, Michael; Pau, Hans-Wilhelm; Zehlicke, Thorsten

    2016-03-01

    The purpose of this study was to further the understanding of the opening of the Eustachian tube in relation to changes in barometric pressure. An ear canal microphone was used to measure the specific sounds related to tube opening and possible eardrum movements. Five subjects with normal tube function were examined in a hyperbaric chamber (up to 304 kPa). All active and passive equalization events were recorded and correlated with the subjectively perceived pressure regulation in the measured ear. The signals recorded were clear and reproducible. The acoustic analysis distinguished between the different kinds of equalization. Subjective impressions were confirmed by the recorded frequency of acoustic phenomena (clicks). During compression, the sequence of active equalization manoeuvres was in a more regular and steady pattern than during decompression, when the click sounds varied. The study established a simple technical method for analyzing the function of the Eustachian tube and provided new information about barometric pressure regulation of the middle ear.

  5. Anatomical study of the pigs temporal bone by microdissection.

    PubMed

    Garcia, Leandro de Borborema; Andrade, José Santos Cruz de; Testa, José Ricardo Gurgel

    2014-01-01

    Initial study of the pig`s temporal bone anatomy in order to enable a new experimental model in ear surgery. Dissection of five temporal bones of Sus scrofa pigs obtained from UNIFESP - Surgical Skills Laboratory, removed with hole saw to avoid any injury and stored in formaldehyde 10% for better conservation. The microdissection in all five temporal bone had the following steps: inspection of the outer part, external canal and tympanic membrane microscopy, mastoidectomy, removal of external ear canal and tympanic membrane, inspection of ossicular chain and middle ear. Anatomically it is located at the same position than in humans. Some landmarks usually found in humans are missing. The tympanic membrane of the pig showed to be very similar to the human, separating the external and the middle ear. The middle ear`s appearance is very similar than in humans. The ossicular chain is almost exactly the same, as well as the facial nerve, showing the same relationship with the lateral semicircular canal. The temporal bone of the pigs can be used as an alternative for training in ear surgery, especially due the facility to find it and its similarity with temporal bone of the humans.

  6. DoD STINFO Manager Training Course. Training Manual

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1993-02-01

    The Export Control Classification Number ( ECCN ) 2. Types of controls, e.g., COCOM 3. Requirements, such as: a. Country groups for which a validated...see Export Administration Act EAR - see Export Administration Regulations ECCN - Export Control Classification Number ELINT - Electronic

  7. Learning to perform ear reconstruction.

    PubMed

    Wilkes, Gordon H

    2009-08-01

    Learning how to perform ear reconstruction is very difficult. There are no standardized teaching methods. This has resulted in many ear reconstructions being suboptimal. Learning requires a major commitment by the surgeon. Factors to be seriously considered by those considering performing this surgery are (1) commitment, (2) aptitude, (3) training methods available, (4) surgical skills and experience, and (5) additional equipment needs. Unless all these factors are addressed in a surgeon's decision to perform this form of reconstruction, the end result will be compromised, and patient care will not be optimized. It is hoped that considering these factors and following this approach will result in a higher quality of aesthetic result. The future of ear reconstruction lies in the use of advanced digital technologies and tissue engineering. Copyright Thieme Medical Publishers.

  8. An Archival Research Comparing Learning Effectiveness and Training Transfer Perceptions between Classroom Technical Training and Synchronous Online Technical Training

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Jordan, Charles L.

    2016-01-01

    Synchronous online training has become one of the preferred training modes for organizations. Despite organizations increasing their use of online training, there is still little data to confirm that synchronous online technical training is as effective as classroom technical training for training transfer. Although learning effectiveness between…

  9. Alleviation of pressure pulse effects for trains entering tunnels. Volume 1: Summary

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Dayman, B., Jr.; Hammitt, A. G.; Holway, H. P.; Tucker, C. E., Jr.; Vardy, A. E.

    1979-01-01

    The degree to which it is possible to attenuate the effects of pressure pulses on the passengers in trains entering tunnels by modifying the normally abrupt portal of a constant-diameter single track tunnel was investigated. Although the suggested modifications to the tunnel entrance portal may not appreciably decrease the magnitude of the pressure rise, they are very effective in reducing the discomfort to the human ear by substantially decreasing the rate of pressure rise to that which the normal ear can accommodate. Qualitative comparison was made of this portal modification approach with other approaches: decreasing the train speed or sealing the cars. The optimum approach, which is dependent upon the conditions and requirements of each particular rail system, is likely to be the portal modification one for a rapid rail mass transit system.

  10. 76 FR 35474 - UAW-Chrysler Technical Training Center, Technology Training Joint Programs Staff, Including On...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-06-17

    ...-Chrysler Technical Training Center, Technology Training Joint Programs Staff, Including On-Site Leased Workers From Cranks, O/E Learning, DBSI, IDEA, and Tonic/MVP, Detroit, MI; UAW-Chrysler Technical Training... workers and former workers of UAW-Chrysler Technical Training Center, Technology Training Joint Programs...

  11. The Role of Hand, Eye, and Ear Lateralization in the Sense of Rhythm of the Athletes

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Erhan, Süleyman Erim; Gerek, Zinnur

    2018-01-01

    This study was carried out to investigate the relationship among the hand, eye, and ear lateralizations and the sense of rhythm of the athletes randomly selected from different sport branches. A total of 115 elite athletes including 72 males (62.6%) and 43 females (37.4%) whose mean age was 22.3 ± 2.4 years and who receive training at different…

  12. Cauliflower Ear and Skin Infections among Wrestlers in Tehran

    PubMed Central

    Kordi, Ramin; Mansournai, Mohammad Ali; Nourian, Roh Allah; Wallace, W. Angus

    2007-01-01

    The purpose of the study was to describe the magnitude of the selected sports medicine problems (i.e. cauliflower ear and skin infections) among wrestlers in Tehran. A number of 411 wrestlers were randomly selected from wrestling clubs in Tehran employing cluster sample setting method. The participants were interviewed using a specially designed and validated questionnaire. Nearly half of the participants (44%) had “cauliflower ears”. Only 23% of these participants had received any kind of treatment for their acute ear haematomas that are known to result in “cauliflower ears”. The prevalence of reported hearing loss among participants with cauliflower ears (11.5%, 95%CI: 6.9 to 16.2) was significantly more than this prevalence among those participants without cauliflower ears (1.8%, 95%CI: 0.1 to 3.5) (p < 0.05). More than half of the participants (52%) had skin infection diagnosed by a physician during the previous year. This study has identified evidence of an increase in hearing loss as a possible side effect of either cauliflower ear or ear injury in wrestling in Iran. There has been an outbreak of ringworm and there is a significant potential for an outbreak of impetigo among wrestlers in Tehran. Key points Skin infections are prevalent among wrestlers in Tehran. Commonly wrestlers in Tehran continue to carry out wrestling training while affected by skin infections. Cauliflower ear ”is common among wrestlers in Tehran. More research is needed to investigate hearing loss as a possible side effect of either cauliflower ear or ear injury in wrestling in Iran. PMID:24198702

  13. Musicianship enhances ipsilateral and contralateral efferent gain control to the cochlea.

    PubMed

    Bidelman, Gavin M; Schneider, Amy D; Heitzmann, Victoria R; Bhagat, Shaum P

    2017-02-01

    Human hearing sensitivity is easily compromised with overexposure to excessively loud sounds, leading to permanent hearing damage. Consequently, finding activities and/or experiential factors that distinguish "tender" from "tough" ears (i.e., acoustic vulnerability) would be important for identifying people at higher risk for hearing damage. To regulate sound transmission and protect the inner ear against acoustic trauma, the auditory system modulates gain control to the cochlea via biological feedback of the medial olivocochlear (MOC) efferents, a neuronal pathway linking the lower brainstem and cochlear outer hair cells. We hypothesized that a salient form of auditory experience shown to have pervasive neuroplastic benefits, namely musical training, might act to fortify hearing through tonic engagement of these reflexive pathways. By measuring MOC efferent feedback via otoacoustic emissions (cochlear emitted sounds), we show that dynamic ipsilateral and contralateral cochlear gain control is enhanced in musically-trained individuals. Across all participants, MOC strength was correlated with the years of listeners' training suggested that efferent gain control is experience dependent. Our data provide new evidence that intensive listening experience(s) (e.g., musicianship) can strengthen the ipsi/contralateral MOC efferent system and sound regulation to the inner ear. Implications for reducing acoustic vulnerability to damaging sounds are discussed. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  14. Integrating technical and non-technical skills coaching in an acute trauma surgery team training: Is it too much?

    PubMed

    Alken, Alexander; Luursema, Jan-Maarten; Weenk, Mariska; Yauw, Simon; Fluit, Cornelia; van Goor, Harry

    2017-08-25

    Research on effective integration of technical and non-technical skills in surgery team training is sparse. In a previous study we found that surgical teachers predominantly coached on technical and hardly on non-technical skills during the Definitive Surgical and Anesthetic Trauma Care (DSATC) integrated acute trauma surgery team training. This study aims to investigate whether the priming of teachers could increase the amount of non-technical skills coaching during such a training. Coaching activities of 12 surgical teachers were recorded on audio and video. Six teachers were primed on non-technical skills coaching prior to the training. Six others received no priming and served as controls. Blind observers reviewed the recordings of 2 training scenario's and scored whether the observed behaviors were directed on technical or non-technical skills. We compared the frequency of the non-technical skills coaching between the primed and the non-primed teachers and analyzed for differences according to the trainees' level of experience. Surgical teachers coached trainees during the highly realistic DSATC integrated acute trauma surgery team training. Trainees performed damage control surgery in operating teams on anesthetized porcine models during 6 training scenario's. Twelve experienced surgical teachers participated in this study. Coaching on non-technical skills was limited to about 5%. The primed teachers did not coach more often on non-technical skills than the non-primed teachers. We found no differences in the frequency of non-technical skills coaching based on the trainees' level of experience. Priming experienced surgical teachers does not increase the coaching on non-technical skills. The current DSATC acute trauma surgery team training seems too complex for integrating training on technical and non-technical skills. Patient care, Practice based learning and improvement. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  15. Narrow-band evoked oto-acoustic emission from ears with normal and pathologic conditions.

    PubMed

    Takeda, Taizo; Kakigi, Akinobu; Takebayashi, Shinji; Ohono, Satoshi; Nishioka, Rie; Nakatani, Hiroaki

    2010-01-01

    Evoked oto-acoustic emission (EOAE), in particular the slow component, is fragile with the inner ear lesions and is apt to disappear in impaired ears. This presence is thought to mean that inner ear is not badly damaged, and that the presence of EOAEs in early stage sudden deafness carries a good prognosis. Narrow-band EOAE analysis would open a potentially promising way to manage sensorineural deafness. The aim of present study was to evaluate the characteristics of EOAEs from pathologic ears by a narrow-band EOAE analysis, which allowed us to investigate amplitude, frequency content and latency of EOAEs simultaneously and also to easily detect weak echoes in cases with inner ear lesions. EOAEs were analyzed by investigating narrow-band frequency contents of EOAEs, filtered by a 100-Hz step of pass bandwidth in frequency regions from 1.0 to 2.0 kHz, and by 500 Hz of pass bandwidth in the frequency ranges of 0.5-1.0 and 2.0-5.0 kHz. EOAE testing was performed in 40 normal ears and 111 ears with pathologic disorders, including sudden deafness, Ménière's disease and surgically proven acoustic neurinomas. Spontaneous oto-acoustic emission was investigated in some cases. In acoustic neurinoma, especially computed tomography scan and magnetic resonance imaging tests were performed to assess the tumor size. (1) Narrow-band EOAE analysis revealed that EOAEs from normal ears were composed of two main echo trains and several sub-echoes. The main echo trains were divided into a fast component with a short latency of <10 ms and a slow component with a long latency of >10 ms. (2) EOAEs could often be detected from ears with moderate to severe hearing loss >45 dB HL in early stage sudden deafness. The prognosis of sudden deafness was good in cases where both a fast component and slow component were detected in the acute stage within 2 weeks after the deafness onset, and was pessimistic, when either or both of them failed to recover. (3) In Ménière's disease, EOAE was found in 6 (40%) of 15 cases with hearing loss >50 dB, and detected in 54 (90%) of 60 cases with slight to moderate deafness <50 dB HL. Echo duration tended to become shorter, and the slow component decreased in amplitude even in ears with slight deafness <30 dB. The detection threshold of the slow component was also elevated. In ears with more advanced deafness, the slow component disappeared and only the fast component with short latency persisted. Ultimately, the fast component also faded out if the hearing was severely impaired. (4) EOAEs were detectable in 20 (95.2%) of 21 ears with surgically proven acoustic neurinoma, 16 of which had both the slow and fast components. The echo pattern of acoustic neurinoma was basically similar to that of normal ears, but the detection threshold was elevated to a varying degree, although there were some cases with much better detection threshold as compared with severe deafness.

  16. 10 CFR 440.23 - Oversight, training, and technical assistance.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 10 Energy 3 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Oversight, training, and technical assistance. 440.23... PERSONS § 440.23 Oversight, training, and technical assistance. (a) The Secretary and the appropriate..., directly or indirectly, training and technical assistance to any grantee or subgrantee. Such training and...

  17. [Experimental investigations of CO2 laser application in middle ear ossicles].

    PubMed

    Dazert, S; Russ, D; Mlynski, R; Brors, D; Greiner, A; Aletsee, C; Helms, J

    2003-07-01

    During the last few years, several laser systems have been applied for procedures in middle ear surgery. In this study, we determined the technical parameters for the dissection of the middle ear ossicles with the CO(2) laser and analyzed the histological findings. The malleus necks of 16 human temporal bones were dissected under standardized conditions using a CO(2) laser with a power output between 35 and 55 kW/cm(2). The specimens were fixed and histological probes of 50- micro m thickness were prepared. The laser outputs led to crater diameters from 0.14 to 0.55 mm. As an analogy between laser energy and thermal tissue destruction, three zones of thermal damage were differentiated: a cinder zone, a carbonization zone, and a zone of dehydration. The metrical dimensions of these zones did not show any correlation to the applied laser energy. The data of this study show that commercially available CO(2) lasers are sufficient for a safe and effective partial resection of middle ear ossicles using a power output of 35 kW/cm(2).

  18. Otoplasty: sequencing the operation for improved results.

    PubMed

    Hoehn, James G; Ashruf, Salman

    2005-01-01

    : After studying this article, the participant should be able to: 1. Understand the anatomy and embryology of the external ear. 2. Understand the anatomic causes of the prominent ear. 3. Understand the operative maneuvers used to shape the external ear. 4. Be able to sequence the otoplasty for consistent results. 5. Understand the possible complications of the otoplasty procedure. Correction of prominent ears is a common plastic surgical procedure. Proper execution of the surgical techniques is dependent on the surgeon's understanding of the surgical procedure. This understanding is best founded on an understanding of the historical bases for the operative steps and the execution of these operative steps in a logical fashion. This article describes the concept of sequencing the operation of otoplasty to produce predictable results combining the technical contributions from many authors. The historical, embryological, and anatomic bases for the operation are also discussed. Finally, the authors' preferred techniques are presented. Sequencing the steps in the preoperative assessment, preoperative planning, patient management, operative technique, and postoperative care will produce reproducible results for the attentive surgeon. Careful attention to the details of the operation of otoplasty will avoid many postoperative problems.

  19. Effects of military training activities on shrub-steppe raptors in southwestern Idaho, USA

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Lehman, Robert N.; Steenhof, Karen; Kochert, Michael N.; Carpenter, L.B.

    1999-01-01

    Between 1991 and 1994, we assessed relative abundance, nesting success, and distribution of ferruginous hawks (Buteo regalis), northern harriers (Circus cyaneus), burrowing owls (Athene cunicularia), and short-eared owls (Asio flammeus) inside and outside a military training site in the Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area, southwestern Idaho. The Orchard Training Area is used primarily for armored vehicle training and artillery firing by the Idaho Army National Guard. Relative abundance of nesting pairs inside and outside the training site was not significantly different from 1991 to 1993 but was significantly higher on the training site in 1994 (Pa??a??a??0.03). Nesting success varied among years but was not significantly different inside and outside the training site (Pa??>a??0.26). In 1994, short-eared owl and burrowing owl nests were significantly closer to firing ranges used early in the spring before owls laid eggs than were random points (Pa??

  20. Closed anterior scoring for prominent-ear correction revisited.

    PubMed

    Thomas, S S; Fatah, F

    2001-10-01

    The closed-anterior-scoring technique has been used over the past 3 years to correct 56 prominent ears in 32 patients at the West Midlands Regional Plastic Surgery Unit at Wordsley Hospital. A review was carried out to assess the result of this surgical procedure. We briefly discuss the historical development of other surgical techniques for prominent-ear correction, and describe in detail the operative technique for this procedure, which includes closed scoring and suturing of the cartilage. We used this technique to treat 24 patients with bilateral prominent ears and eight patients with unilateral prominent ears. The series comprised 20 females and 12 males, 26 children and six adults. The age range was from 4 to 24 years old. There were two complications (an upper-pole recurrence and protrusion of a buried prolene suture). Patients were followed up for between 6 months and 3 years (mean: 1.5 years). This procedure is quick and technically easy to learn, with no anterior scars or posterior cartilage overlap. Minimal dissection is involved, leading to a low rate of complications. The learning curve is rapid; this paper represents the experience of a specialist trainee (SST) after he was taught the technique by the senior author. Copyright 2001 The British Association of Plastic Surgeons.

  1. Case presentation: a novel way of treating acute cauliflower ear in a professional rugby player.

    PubMed

    Macdonald, D J M; Calder, N; Perrett, G; McGuiness, R G

    2005-06-01

    Acute auricular haematoma is a common problem in rugby players and can be difficult to treat due to re-accumulation of the fluid and can subsequently cause the unsightly cauliflower ear. We present a case of auricular haematoma affecting the central part of the pinna in a professional rugby player. This was treated successfully by aspiration and the use of silicone splints which allowed the player to continue training and competing.

  2. 75 FR 13521 - Centers for Independent Living Program-Training and Technical Assistance

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-03-22

    ... DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Centers for Independent Living Program--Training and Technical Assistance... for Independent Living Program--Training and Technical Assistance (CIL-TA program). The Assistant... appropriated for the CIL program to provide training and technical assistance to CILs, agencies eligible to...

  3. Enhancing Ear and Hearing Health Access for Children With Technology and Connectivity.

    PubMed

    Swanepoel, De Wet

    2017-10-12

    Technology and connectivity advances are demonstrating increasing potential to improve access of service delivery to persons with hearing loss. This article demonstrates use cases from community-based hearing screening and automated diagnosis of ear disease. This brief report reviews recent evidence for school- and home-based hearing testing in underserved communities using smartphone technologies paired with calibrated headphones. Another area of potential impact facilitated by technology and connectivity is the use of feature extraction algorithms to facilitate automated diagnosis of most common ear conditions from video-otoscopic images. Smartphone hearing screening using calibrated headphones demonstrated equivalent sensitivity and specificity for school-based hearing screening. Automating test sequences with a forced-choice response paradigm allowed persons with minimal training to offer screening in underserved communities. The automated image analysis and diagnosis system for ear disease demonstrated an overall accuracy of 80.6%, which is up to par and exceeds accuracy rates previously reported for general practitioners and pediatricians. The emergence of these tools that capitalize on technology and connectivity advances enables affordable and accessible models of service delivery for community-based ear and hearing care.

  4. Reconstruction following traumatic partial amputation of the ear.

    PubMed

    Pearl, Robert A; Sabbagh, Walid

    2011-02-01

    Reconstruction following traumatic amputation of the external ear remains a unique challenge to the plastic surgeon. The authors report a series of ear reconstructions with autologous costal cartilage in patients following traumatic partial amputation of the ear. Technical points regarding the carving of the cartilage framework and methods of skin coverage are discussed. Fifty partial ear reconstructions with autologous costal cartilage were performed over a 4-year period. All patients had suffered previous traumatic amputation of part of the external auricle due to bite injuries (n = 36), road traffic accidents (n = 6), burns (n = 5), or torture (n = 3). A two-stage technique of reconstruction with autologous cartilage graft was used based on Nagata's adaptations of Brent's original technique. In nine cases, skin shortage or extensive scarring required preoperative tissue expansion (n = 4) or a temporoparietal fascial flap (n = 5) to provide adequate coverage of the cartilage framework. Forty-seven patients had a successful surgical outcome without complication. Two patients developed small areas of skin necrosis resulting in exposure of the cartilage framework. These healed with conservative management with minor loss of definition. One case of wound infection resulted in significant loss of definition of the construct, which required a further surgical procedure with additional costal cartilage graft. Reconstruction of the external ear with autologous costal cartilage following traumatic amputation can produce high-quality auricles consistently and is becoming the treatment of choice for such injuries, given access to a specialist center with exposure to a high volume of cases.

  5. 34 CFR 300.119 - Technical assistance and training activities.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 34 Education 2 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Technical assistance and training activities. 300.119... Technical assistance and training activities. Each SEA must carry out activities to ensure that teachers and....114; and (b) Are provided with technical assistance and training necessary to assist them in this...

  6. 42 CFR 493.1838 - Training and technical assistance for unsuccessful participation in proficiency testing.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 42 Public Health 5 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Training and technical assistance for unsuccessful... REQUIREMENTS Enforcement Procedures § 493.1838 Training and technical assistance for unsuccessful participation... may require the laboratory to undertake training of its personnel, or to obtain necessary technical...

  7. 77 FR 20369 - Applications for New Awards; Centers for Independent Living-Training and Technical Assistance

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-04-04

    ... Education ACTION: Notice. Overview Information Centers for Independent Living--Training and Technical.... Funding Opportunity Description Purpose of Program The purpose of the Training and Technical Assistance grant under the Centers for Independent Living program is to provide training and technical assistance...

  8. Project T.E.A.M. (Technical Education Advancement Modules). Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Greenville Technical Coll., SC.

    Project TEAM (Technical Education Advancement Modules), a cooperative demonstration program for high technology training, created an introductory technical training program and a consumer education package emphasizing the benefits of technical training. The curriculum and training focus of the project began with an assessment of employee needs in…

  9. Athletic Training Student Active Learning Time with and without the Use of Bug-In-Ear Technology

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Nottingham, Sara L.; Montgomery, Melissa M.; Kasamatsu, Tricia M.

    2017-01-01

    Context: Clinical education experiences that actively engage students in patient care are important to the development of competent clinicians. It is important to assess athletic training students' time spent clinically and explore new technology that may facilitate more active learning during clinical education. Objective: To assess athletic…

  10. 76 FR 30974 - Amended Revised Determination on Reconsideration

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-05-27

    ... Revised Determination on Reconsideration UAW-Chrysler Technical Training Center, Technology Training Joint... December 22, 2010, applicable to workers of UAW-Chrysler Technical Training Center, Technology Training Joint Programs Staff, Detroit, Michigan and Warren, Michigan. Workers provide technical training such as...

  11. Initiating and developing clinical services, training and research in a low resource setting: the Malawi ENT experience.

    PubMed

    Mulwafu, Wakisa; Nyirenda, Thomas Elliot; Fagan, Johannes J; Bem, Chris; Mlumbe, Kumvana; Chitule, Jean

    2014-07-01

    Sub-Saharan Africa countries like Malawi have a paucity of ear, nose and throat (ENT) data, services and training opportunities. To reflect on new Malawian ENT experience and to propose guidelines to poorly resourced countries. Analysis of data predating and following establishment of ENT services in Malawi. In 2008 the first and only Malawian ENT specialist established ENT services with external funding. Fifteen clinical officers have been trained and a nurse placed at each outreach hospital. In 2012, 15,284 consultations were recorded: 543 (3.6%) from outreach clinics. Forty-nine percent needed medical treatment, while 45% needed medical advice. Surgery was performed on 2.7% of patients; 21% for foreign bodies in the nose and throat and 18% for foreign bodies and biopsies of ears. To establish accessible and sustainable specialist ENT services in a poor country requires building on an established local health delivery system, careful planning and investment in personnel, infrastructure, training and data collection. © The Author(s) 2014 Reprints and permissions: sagepub.co.uk/journalsPermissions.nav.

  12. 76 FR 2147 - UAW-Chrysler National Training Center Technology Training Joint Programs Staff, Detroit, MI; UAW...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-01-12

    ... Technical Training Center Technology Training Joint Programs Staff, Warren, MI; Notice of Revised... facilities. The information revealed that the technical training provided (such as applied industrial... engaged in employment related to the supply of technical training services, meet the worker group...

  13. Multidisciplinary crisis simulations: the way forward for training surgical teams.

    PubMed

    Undre, Shabnam; Koutantji, Maria; Sevdalis, Nick; Gautama, Sanjay; Selvapatt, Nowlan; Williams, Samantha; Sains, Parvinderpal; McCulloch, Peter; Darzi, Ara; Vincent, Charles

    2007-09-01

    High-reliability organizations have stressed the importance of non-technical skills for safety and of regularly providing such training to their teams. Recently safety skills training has been applied in the practice of medicine. In this study, we developed and piloted a module using multidisciplinary crisis scenarios in a simulated operating theatre to train entire surgical teams. Twenty teams participated (n = 80); each consisted of a trainee surgeon, anesthetist, operating department practitioner (ODP), and scrub nurse. Crisis scenarios such as difficult intubation, hemorrhage, or cardiac arrest were simulated. Technical and non-technical skills (leadership, communication, team skills, decision making, and vigilance), were assessed by clinical experts and by two psychologists using relevant technical and human factors rating scales. Participants received technical and non-technical feedback, and the whole team received feedback on teamwork. Trainees assessed the training favorably. For technical skills there were no differences between surgical trainees' assessment scores and the assessment scores of the trainers. However, nurses overrated their technical skill. Regarding non-technical skills, leadership and decision making were scored lower than the other three non-technical skills (communication, team skills, and vigilance). Surgeons scored lower than nurses on communication and teamwork skills. Surgeons and anesthetists scored lower than nurses on leadership. Multidisciplinary simulation-based team training is feasible and well received by surgical teams. Non-technical skills can be assessed alongside technical skills, and differences in performance indicate where there is a need for further training. Future work should focus on developing team performance measures for training and on the development and evaluation of systematic training for technical and non-technical skills to enhance team performance and safety in surgery.

  14. 78 FR 25292 - Announcement of Funding Awards; Office of Native American Programs Training and Technical...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-04-30

    ... Awards; Office of Native American Programs Training and Technical Assistance; Fiscal Year 2012 AGENCY... (NOFA) for the Office of Native American Programs Training and Technical Assistance (ONAP T&TA). This... nonprofit organizations, as well as for-profit entities to provide Training & Technical Assistance to the...

  15. 34 CFR 366.10 - What agencies are eligible for assistance to provide training and technical assistance?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... training and technical assistance? 366.10 Section 366.10 Education Regulations of the Offices of the... EDUCATION CENTERS FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING Training and Technical Assistance § 366.10 What agencies are eligible for assistance to provide training and technical assistance? Entities that have experience in the...

  16. 34 CFR 366.11 - What financial assistance does the Secretary provide for training and technical assistance?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... for training and technical assistance? 366.11 Section 366.11 Education Regulations of the Offices of..., DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION CENTERS FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING Training and Technical Assistance § 366.11 What financial assistance does the Secretary provide for training and technical assistance? (a) From funds, if...

  17. Framework for incorporating simulation into urology training.

    PubMed

    Arora, Sonal; Lamb, Benjamin; Undre, Shabnam; Kneebone, Roger; Darzi, Ara; Sevdalis, Nick

    2011-03-01

    • Changes to working hours, new technologies and increased accountability have rendered the need for alternative training environments for urologists. • Simulation offers a promising arena for learning to take place in a safe, realistic setting. • Despite its benefits, the incorporation of simulation into urological training programmes remains minimal. • The current status and future directions of simulation for training in technical and non-technical skills are reviewed as they pertain to urology. • A framework is presented for how simulation-based training could be incorporated into the entire urological curriculum. • The literature on simulation in technical and non-technical skills training is reviewed, with a specific focus upon urology. • To fully integrate simulation into a training curriculum, its possibilities for addressing all the competencies required by a urologist must be realized. • At an early stage of training, simulation has been used to develop basic technical skills and cognitive skills, such as decision-making and communication. • At an intermediate stage, the studies focus upon more advanced technical skills learnt with virtual reality simulators. • Non-technical skills training would include leadership and could be delivered with in situ models. • At the final stage, experienced trainees can practise technical and non-technical skills in full crisis simulations situated within a fully-simulated operating rooms. • Simulation can provide training in the technical and non-technical skills required to be a competent urologist. • The framework presented may guide how best to incorporate simulation into training curricula. • Future work should determine whether acquired skills transfer to clinical practice and improve patient care. © 2010 THE AUTHORS. BJU INTERNATIONAL © 2010 BJU INTERNATIONAL.

  18. 7 CFR 1775.36 - Purpose.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... (CONTINUED) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE GRANTS Technical Assistance and Training Grants § 1775.36 Purpose. Grants... water and/or waste disposal loan/grant applications. (d) Provide technical assistance/training to... facilities. (e) Pay the expenses associated with providing the technical assistance and/or training...

  19. New Protocol for Skin Landmark Registration in Image-Guided Neurosurgery: Technical Note.

    PubMed

    Gerard, Ian J; Hall, Jeffery A; Mok, Kelvin; Collins, D Louis

    2015-09-01

    Newer versions of the commercial Medtronic StealthStation allow the use of only 8 landmark pairs for patient-to-image registration as opposed to 9 landmarks in older systems. The choice of which landmark pair to drop in these newer systems can have an effect on the quality of the patient-to-image registration. To investigate 4 landmark registration protocols based on 8 landmark pairs and compare the resulting registration accuracy with a 9-landmark protocol. Four different protocols were tested on both phantoms and patients. Two of the protocols involved using 4 ear landmarks and 4 facial landmarks and the other 2 involved using 3 ear landmarks and 5 facial landmarks. Both the fiducial registration error and target registration error were evaluated for each of the different protocols to determine any difference between them and the 9-landmark protocol. No difference in fiducial registration error was found between any of the 8-landmark protocols and the 9-landmark protocol. A significant decrease (P < .05) in target registration error was found when using a protocol based on 4 ear landmarks and 4 facial landmarks compared with the other protocols based on 3 ear landmarks. When using 8 landmarks to perform the patient-to-image registration, the protocol using 4 ear landmarks and 4 facial landmarks greatly outperformed the other 8-landmark protocols and 9-landmark protocol, resulting in the lowest target registration error.

  20. Vulnerability of the ear in men and women

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fleischer, Gerald; Mueller, Reinhard

    2004-05-01

    A special procedure was developed to separate ears with auditory damage from those without damage. It was applied to a database of roughly 10000 persons, containing pure-tone audiograms and other information. Persons with medical problems of the ear were excluded. For analysis, groups of persons with similar ways of life were examined: college students, orchestra musicians, dentists, Tibetian nomads, Chinese city dwellers, etc. Looking specifically at ears that suffered noise-induced auditory damage, the damages are different in men and women. At frequencies below about 2 kHz men typically have less hearing loss than women. However, above 2 kHz, men have more hearing loss than women. This effect is quite strong and highly significant. It could be found in every group that is large enough. It is present in persons going regularly to discotheques, as well as in Tibetian nomads, who live without any technical noise, but use fire crackers now and then. This effect appears not related to the acoustic environment, but can be the result of differences in vulenerability between men and women. It can also be found in youngsters and, to some extent, in children.

  1. Design of a dynamic sensor inspired by bat ears

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Müller, Rolf; Pannala, Mittu; Reddy, O. Praveen K.; Meymand, Sajjad Z.

    2012-09-01

    In bats, the outer ear shapes act as beamforming baffles that create a spatial sensitivity pattern for the reception of the biosonar signals. Whereas technical receivers for wave-based signals usually have rigid geometries, the outer ears of some bat species, such as horseshoe bats, can undergo non-rigid deformations as a result of muscular actuation. It is hypothesized that these deformations provide the animals with a mechanism to adapt their spatial hearing sensitivity on short, sub-second time scales. This biological approach could be of interest to engineering as an inspiration for the design of beamforming devices that combine flexibility with parsimonious implementation. To explore this possibility, a biomimetic dynamic baffle was designed based on a simple shape overall geometry based on an average bat ear. This shape was augmented with three different biomimetic local shape features, a ridge on its exposed surface as well as a flap and an incision along its rim. Dynamic non-rigid deformations of the shape were accomplished through a simple actuation mechanism based on linear actuation inserted at a single point. Despite its simplicity, the prototype device was able to reproduce the dynamic functional characteristics that have been predicted for its biological paragon in a qualitative fashion.

  2. Athletic Training Students' and Preceptors' Perceptions of Active Learning Time and Bug-in-Ear Technology during Clinical Education Experiences

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Nottingham, Sara L.; Kasamatsu, Tricia M.; Montgomery, Melissa M.

    2017-01-01

    Context: Engaging clinical experiences that allow extensive active learning and patient care interactions are important for the professional development of athletic training students. Understanding students' use of clinical time is important when attempting to improve these experiences. Objective: To gain participants' perspectives on active…

  3. Cholesteatoma has a high prevalence in Turner syndrome, highlighting the need for earlier diagnosis and the potential benefits of otoscopy training for paediatricians.

    PubMed

    Lim, D B N; Gault, E J; Kubba, H; Morrissey, M S C; Wynne, D M; Donaldson, M D C

    2014-07-01

    Girls with Turner syndrome are prone to cholesteatoma, a serious suppurative middle ear disease. We aimed to confirm its high prevalence in Turner syndrome, identify risk factors and suggest possible strategies for earlier detection. We reviewed 179 girls with Turner syndrome between 1989 and 2012 to identify cases of cholesteatoma. Seven girls (3.9%) had cholesteatoma (index girls) and each was compared with three age-matched girls without cholesteatoma (comparison girls). All the index girls had either the 45,X or 45,X/46X,i(Xq) karyotypes. Nine ears were initially affected, with three recurrences in two girls. Median age at first cholesteatoma presentation was 11.9 years (range: 7.5-15.2), with otorrhoea for three (range: one to seven) months in all 12 affected ears. Index girls had a significantly higher proportion of previous recurrent acute (p = 0.007) and chronic otitis media (p = 0.008), chronic perforation (p = 0.038) aural polyps (p < 0.0001) and tympanic membrane retraction (p = 0.0001) than comparison girls. Cholesteatoma has a high prevalence in Turner syndrome. Risk factors include 45,X and 46,XiXq karyotypes; a history of chronic otitis media, tympanic membrane retraction and persistent otorrhoea; and older age. Earlier recognition of ear disease is needed and otoscopy training for paediatricians caring for Turner syndrome patients may be beneficial. ©2014 Foundation Acta Paediatrica. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  4. 76 FR 62455 - Announcement of Updated Funding Availability for H-1B Technical Skills Training Grants

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-10-07

    ... 10-13] Announcement of Updated Funding Availability for H-1B Technical Skills Training Grants AGENCY... the availability of $240 million for the H-1B Technical Skills Training Grants to be awarded through a... additional applicants to apply for the H-1B Technical Skills Training Grants competition that will close on...

  5. Optimizing otoscopy competency in audiology students through supplementary otoscopy training.

    PubMed

    Kaf, Wafaa A; Masterson, Caleb G; Dion, Nancy; Berg, Susan L; Abdelhakiem, Mohamed K

    2013-10-01

    Scope of practice in audiology encompasses proficiency in visual inspection of ear canal and tympanic membrane (TM) as well as otoscopy interpretation skills to determine normal versus abnormal conditions of outer and middle ear. Audiology students can develop skills in otoscopy through education and supervised training. Studies have shown that additional otoscopy training increased skills in medical students and general practitioners. However, educational and supervised practices targeting otoscopy competency during audiology graduate coursework are lacking. Also, no studies have attempted to determine otoscopy skills among audiology students. To determine the effectiveness of the otoscopy training model on clinical competency and confidence level of audiology students in performing and interpreting otoscopy. A combination of experimental treatment design with random assignment of treatment and control groups and delayed treatment for control group. Thirty-two first- and second-year audiology graduate students who were enrolled in a pediatric audiology class participated in this study. Students were randomly assigned to the control (n = 16, 14 females) or experimental (n = 16, 14 females) group. Participants in the experimental group received supplementary otoscopy training including didactic otoscopy lectures as well as clinical training using manikin ears. The control group received the same pretest and posttest and then completed a third assessment (posttest 2) after receiving the same training. An evaluation of knowledge and skills regarding otoscopy between groups and time was conducted at three times: (a) pretraining, (b) upon completion of training for the experimental group, (c) upon completion of training by the control group. The evaluation consisted of a written exam, a clinical exam, and a self-perception rating of confidence. Both written exam scores and clinical exam scores (otoscopy manikin) were analyzed via two-way analyses of variance (ANOVAs), whereas chi-square (χ²) statistic was conducted to evaluate the effects of training on the confidence level of students of both groups. Experimental and control groups demonstrated significant increased overall competency in otoscopy following the otoscopy training model with didactic and laboratory components. Posttest confidence ratings showed increases in all groups, and there were no significant differences between groups. The need for supplementary otoscopy training was warranted by low knowledge and clinical competency in otoscopy skills of audiology students as measured by pretest mean scores. After completing the training, both experimental and control groups showed significant improvement in knowledge and competency. Results also suggest that perceived confidence ratings may be misleading in determining students' clinical otoscopy skills. American Academy of Audiology.

  6. 78 FR 2284 - Methodology for Selecting Job Corps Centers for Closure; Comments Request

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-01-10

    ... (GED), and career technical training credentials, including industry-recognized credentials, state... align existing career technical training programs to technical standards established by industries or... technical training. Both PIPs and CAPs are used for continued monitoring and implemented for USDA and...

  7. 7 CFR 1775.35 - Eligibility.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... (CONTINUED) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE GRANTS Technical Assistance and Training Grants § 1775.35 Eligibility. (a... provide technical assistance and/or training on a regional basis to associations as provided in § 1775.33... resources to provide technical assistance and/or training to associations in rural areas through its staff...

  8. 76 FR 24917 - Notice of Funding Opportunity and Solicitation for Grant Applications (SGA) for H-1B Technical...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-05-03

    ... Solicitation for Grant Applications (SGA) for H-1B Technical Skills Training Grants AGENCY: Employment and... million in funds for an H-1B Technical Skills Training Grants program. This grant program is designed to... training. H-1B technical skills training grants are financed by a user fee paid by employers to bring...

  9. A cross-sectional evaluation of the validity of a smartphone otoscopy device in screening for ear disease in Nepal.

    PubMed

    Mandavia, R; Lapa, T; Smith, M; Bhutta, M F

    2018-02-01

    Hearing loss is a neglected international health problem. The greatest burden of ear disease is in low-income countries where there is also a lack of resources. In this context, screening for otological disease may be worthwhile. Cupris© has developed an otoscopy device that offers the possibility of low-cost mass screening in remote communities. We evaluated the validity of this device in diagnosing ear disease and in determining whether referral to an ENT centre is warranted. Cross-sectional study. Outpatient clinic, Nepal. All adults and children were invited to take part over a 2-day period. The Cupris© device was used to record participants otological history and examination. Stored history and images were assessed in the United Kingdom by a Consultant-grade ENT Surgeon, who provided a diagnosis and decided whether referral to an ENT centre was warranted. After screening with the Cupris© device, participants were immediately assessed by a UK trained ENT Consultant Surgeon using a standard otoscope ("standard assessment"). A diagnosis was recorded for each participant and a decision was made as to whether referral to an ENT centre was warranted. Concordance in primary diagnosis (analysed per ear) and concordance in the decision to refer (analysed per patient). Cohen's kappa coefficient for inter-rater agreement in diagnosis. Fifty-six patients agreed to participate. In four patients, the quality of video recorded precluded a diagnosis or management plan. These patients were excluded from subsequent analysis, leaving 52 patients for analysis. The same diagnosis was reached for 99 of 104 ears when comparing the Cupris© device to standard assessment (95% concordance), with Cohen's kappa coefficient of 0.89. The decision as to whether a patient should be referred to an ENT centre for further assessment was the same for all 52 participants when comparing the Cupris© device to standard assessment. When compared to standard assessment, the Cupris© device is a valid tool for the diagnosis of ear disease and decision for onward referral. It shows considerable promise for use by trained non-medical workers, as a low-cost and portable tool to screen for ear disease in remote settings, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  10. Developing Musicality: Formal and Informal Practices

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Jaffurs, Sheri E.

    2004-01-01

    Musicality is a loosely used term with many meanings. It can be applied to a small child who chants a nursery rhyme, or to a harmonica player who plays by ear, or to a conductor like Toscanini. Some educators and philosophers believe that musicality is manifested in the technical achievements of musicians. Others believe that technique is…

  11. 32 CFR 250.2 - Applicability and scope.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ...) MISCELLANEOUS WITHHOLDING OF UNCLASSIFIED TECHNICAL DATA FROM PUBLIC DISCLOSURE § 250.2 Applicability and scope... part 379 of the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and 22 CFR part 125 of the International... Defense has “limited rights” or “restricted rights” (as defined in 32 CFR 9-201(c) and 9-601(j) of the DoD...

  12. A Model for Establishing a Cybersecurity Center of Excellence

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Moskal, Edward J.

    2015-01-01

    In order to effectively ensure our continued technical advantage and future cybersecurity, we need a technologically skilled and cyber savvy workforce and an effective pipeline of future employees. Our Government has identified Cybersecurity as one of the most serious economic and national security challenges we face as a nation and has ear-marked…

  13. Training and Maintaining System-Wide Reliability in Outcome Management.

    PubMed

    Barwick, Melanie A; Urajnik, Diana J; Moore, Julia E

    2014-01-01

    The Child and Adolescent Functional Assessment Scale (CAFAS) is widely used for outcome management, for providing real time client and program level data, and the monitoring of evidence-based practices. Methods of reliability training and the assessment of rater drift are critical for service decision-making within organizations and systems of care. We assessed two approaches for CAFAS training: external technical assistance and internal technical assistance. To this end, we sampled 315 practitioners trained by external technical assistance approach from 2,344 Ontario practitioners who had achieved reliability on the CAFAS. To assess the internal technical assistance approach as a reliable alternative training method, 140 practitioners trained internally were selected from the same pool of certified raters. Reliabilities were high for both practitioners trained by external technical assistance and internal technical assistance approaches (.909-.995, .915-.997, respectively). 1 and 3-year estimates showed some drift on several scales. High and consistent reliabilities over time and training method has implications for CAFAS training of behavioral health care practitioners, and the maintenance of CAFAS as a global outcome management tool in systems of care.

  14. An Analysis of Costs and Cenefits Associated with Initial Contracting Technical Education and Training for Unrestricted Marine Officers

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2017-03-01

    COSTS AND BENEFITS ASSOCIATED WITH INITIAL CONTRACTING TECHNICAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING FOR UNRESTRICTED MARINE OFFICERS by Lee A. White...WITH INITIAL CONTRACTING TECHNICAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING FOR UNRESTRICTED MARINE OFFICERS 5. FUNDING NUMBERS 6. AUTHOR(S) Lee A. White 7. PERFORMING...unlimited. AN ANALYSIS OF COSTS AND BENEFITS ASSOCIATED WITH INITIAL CONTRACTING TECHNICAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING FOR UNRESTRICTED MARINE OFFICERS

  15. Experiential instruction in graduate-level preparation of speech-language pathology students in outer and middle ear screening.

    PubMed

    Serpanos, Yula C; Senzer, Deborah

    2015-05-01

    This study presents a piloted training model of experiential instruction in outer and middle ear (OE-ME) screening for graduate speech-language pathology students with peer teaching by doctor of audiology (AuD) students. Six individual experiential training sessions in screening otoscopy and tympanometry were conducted for 36 graduate-level speech-language pathology students led by a supervised AuD student. Postexperiential training, survey outcomes from 24 speech-language pathology students revealed a significant improvement (p = .01) in perceptions of attaining adequate knowledge and comfort in performing screening otoscopy (handheld and video otoscopy) and tympanometry. In a group of matched controls who did not receive experiential training in OE-ME screening (n = 24), ratings on the same learning outcomes survey in otoscopy and tympanometry were significantly poorer (p = .01) compared with students who did receive experiential training. A training model of experiential instruction for speech-language pathology students by AuD students improved learning outcomes, illustrating its promise in affecting clinical practices. The instructional model also meets the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA; American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, 2008) and American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (2014) Certificate of Clinical Competence (ASHA CCC) standards for speech-language pathology in OE-ME screening and CAA (2008) and ASHA (2012) CCC standards in the supervisory process for audiology.

  16. INDOT Technical Training Plan : [Technical Summary

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2012-01-01

    A wide range of job classifications, increasing technical : performance expectations, licensing and certification requirements, : budget restrictions and frequent department : reorganization has made technical training of employees : more difficult, ...

  17. 78 FR 51210 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comments Requested: Office for...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-08-20

    ... Technical Assistance Center (OVC TTAC) Online Trainings Package ACTION: 30-day notice. The Department of...: The Office for Victims of Crime Training and Technical Assistance Center (OVC TTAC) Online Trainings... online training and technical assistance and, in some cases, to online instructors or participants...

  18. Cognitive training for technical and non-technical skills in robotic surgery: a randomised controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Raison, Nicholas; Ahmed, Kamran; Abe, Takashige; Brunckhorst, Oliver; Novara, Giacomo; Buffi, Nicolò; McIlhenny, Craig; van der Poel, Henk; van Hemelrijck, Mieke; Gavazzi, Andrea; Dasgupta, Prokar

    2018-05-07

    To investigate the effectiveness of motor imagery (MI) for technical skill and non-technical skill (NTS) training in minimally invasive surgery (MIS). A single-blind, parallel-group randomised controlled trial was conducted at the Vattikuti Institute of Robotic Surgery, King's College London. Novice surgeons were recruited by open invitation in 2015. After basic robotic skills training, participants underwent simple randomisation to either MI training or standard training. All participants completed a robotic urethrovesical anastomosis task within a simulated operating room. In addition to the technical task, participants were required to manage three scripted NTS scenarios. Assessment was performed by five blinded expert surgeons and a NTS expert using validated tools for evaluating technical skills [Global Evaluative Assessment of Robotic Skills (GEARS)] and NTS [Non-Technical Skills for Surgeons (NOTSS)]. Quality of MI was assessed using a revised Movement Imagery Questionnaire (MIQ). In all, 33 participants underwent MI training and 29 underwent standard training. Interrater reliability was high, Krippendorff's α = 0.85. After MI training, the mean (sd) GEARS score was significantly higher than after standard training, at 13.1 (3.25) vs 11.4 (2.97) (P = 0.03). There was no difference in mean NOTSS scores, at 25.8 vs 26.4 (P = 0.77). MI training was successful with significantly higher imagery scores than standard training (mean MIQ score 5.1 vs 4.5, P = 0.04). Motor imagery is an effective training tool for improving technical skill in MIS even in novice participants. No beneficial effect for NTS was found. © 2018 The Authors BJU International © 2018 BJU International Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  19. The Existence of a Natural Plica at the Anatomical Base of the Antihelix and its Surgical Importance to Address Protruding Ears: An Anatomicosurgical Study.

    PubMed

    Oliveira, Miguel Marques; Oliveira, Daniel Sousa Marques; Oliveira, Gustavo Sousa Marques

    2017-04-01

    Protruding ears represent the main abnormality of the external ear, which has required numerous anatomic and surgical studies. Most studies give attention to the absence of the antihelix as the anatomic defect responsible for the clinical deformity of the lateral aspect of the ear that leads to its anteversion. The reason for this study is the controversial origin of the fold of the antihelix within the auricle framework, a field of interest for aesthetic otoplasty. The current study examined the medial surface of the cartilaginous ear frame from cadaver specimens with right morphology to investigate the starting point of the fold of the antihelix. This allowed for verification of a natural plica at the anatomic base of this antihelical fold, which to date has not had its topography described morphologically. It is acknowledged that relevant literature makes no reference to this innominate natural plica at the origin of the antihelix, whose anatomic and surgical importance is related in this report. This study aimed to show that the existence of a natural plica at the base of the antihelix in ear framing represents a landmark between normal and protruding ear morphology. For 8 years, 118 ears were carefully investigated within rigid ethical principles based on a thorough review of the pertinent literature. The study investigated 16 selected cadaver specimens and 102 protruding ears dissected by the senior author including 49 bilateral cases (26 males and 23 females) and 4 unilateral cases (2 males and 2 females). Bifacial anthropometric measurements by calipers were used for documentation. A natural plica at the base of the antihelix was found in all cadaver ears selected with right morphology, whereas it was totally absent in every surgically treated protruding ear irrespective of color, gender, age, or ethnic origin. Ambilateral measures of the antihelix eminence certify the study object in normal specimens as well as its lack in abnormal ones. Technical and topographic knowledge that a natural plica exists at the anatomic base of the antihelix is a valuable key point in recognizing the normal external ear. In addition, the making of a natural plica is the first and most effective factor in the reconstruction of the antihelical fold and its absolute absence results in the pathologic condition for protruding ears. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the A3 online Instructions to Authors. http://www.springer.com/00266 .

  20. Radio speech communication problems reported in a survey of military pilots.

    PubMed

    Lahtinen, Taija M M; Huttunen, Kerttu H; Kuronen, Pentti O; Sorri, Martti J; Leino, Tuomo K

    2010-12-01

    Despite technological advances in conveying information, speech communication is still a key safety factor in aviation. Effective radio communication is necessary, for example, in building and maintaining good team situation awareness. However, little has been reported concerning the prevalence and nature of radio communication problems in everyday working environments in military aviation. We surveyed Finnish Defense Forces pilots regarding the prevalence of radio speech communication problems. Of the 225 pilots contacted, 75% replied to our survey. Altogether 138 of the respondents were fixed-wing pilots and 31 were helicopter pilots. Problems in radio communication occurred, on average, during 14% of flight time. The most prevalent problems were multiple speakers on the same radio frequency band causing overlapping speech, missing acknowledgments, high background noise especially during helicopter operations, and technical problems. Of the respondents, 18% (31 pilots) reported having encountered at least one potentially dangerous event caused by problems in radio communication during their military aviation career. If the employer were to offer extra hearing protection, such as custom-made ear plugs, 93% of the pilots indicated that they would use it. Communication can be a flight safety factor especially during intense air combat exercises and other information-loaded flights. During these situations, communication should be clear and focused on the most essential information. So, training and technical improvements are necessary for better communication. High quality radio speech communication also improves operational effectiveness in military aviation.

  1. Annual Report Fiscal Year 1980--Office of Technical Assistance and Training.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bureau of Indian Affairs, Brigham City, UT.

    The technical assistance and training services which the Office of Technical Assistance and Training (OTAT) offered for Alaskan Natives, Indian Tribes, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs personnel during 1980 are highlighted in this report. The Real Property Management and the Forestry training programs, developed in cooperation with the Office of…

  2. Who Should Train? Substituting Civilian-Provided Training for Military Training

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1991-01-01

    estimate, vocational, trade, and business schools - both public and private-provided qualifying training for approxi- mately 1.11 million technical...lower for minorities and economically disadvantaged students ’virt et al., 1989). 11 larly reliant on public vocational, trade, and business schools include...Several technical occupations are particularly reliant on private voca- tional, technical, and business schools for qualifying training, includ- ing

  3. 77 FR 37710 - Notice of Proposed Information Collection

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-06-22

    ... to continue the collection of information for two technical training program course effectiveness... approval. This collection is for OSM's Technical Training Program Course Effectiveness Evaluations (1029... collection activity: Title: Technical Training Program Course Effectiveness Evaluation. OMB Control Number...

  4. 45 CFR 2533.10 - Eligible activities.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... SERVICE TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE, TRAINING, AND OTHER SERVICE INFRASTRUCTURE-BUILDING ACTIVITIES § 2533.10... training and technical assistance and other assistance to project sponsors and other community-based... will provide training and technical assistance, where necessary, to individuals, programs, local labor...

  5. An audit of the E.N.T. casualty service at the Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital.

    PubMed

    O'Driscoll, K; Donnelly, M J; McShane, D P; Burns, H

    1993-11-01

    The only specialised Accident and Emergency unit for ENT in Ireland is at The Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital, Dublin. This provides a service for the entire Republic, operating on a 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday, basis. The aim of the present study was to define the role of this specialised unit. A prospective study of the service over a one month period was conducted. During this time 779 patients were seen of which 350 (45%) were new patients and 429 (55%) were return patients. Fifty two per cent were self referred, 35% were referred by their General Practitioners, 8% by other hospitals and 5% from other sources. The most common diagnosis was otitis externa (21% of new patients and 63% of returns), followed by ear wax (15% of new patients), and epistaxis (9% of new patients). Five per cent of patients required removal of foreign bodies from their ear, nose or oesophagus, and 3% received treatment for trauma to these regions. Of note during this period six new cases of head and neck cancer were detected. From these figures it is the authors' opinion that many of the problems seen could have been dealt with by General Practitioners or as non-emergency referrals to the out-patient department. This indicates the need for further training for primary care physicians and expansion of the present outpatients services. The specialised casualty service should continue to exist to provide a genuine emergency service and valuable training in the speciality.

  6. 3D-printed pediatric endoscopic ear surgery simulator for surgical training.

    PubMed

    Barber, Samuel R; Kozin, Elliott D; Dedmon, Matthew; Lin, Brian M; Lee, Kyuwon; Sinha, Sumi; Black, Nicole; Remenschneider, Aaron K; Lee, Daniel J

    2016-11-01

    Surgical simulators are designed to improve operative skills and patient safety. Transcanal Endoscopic Ear Surgery (TEES) is a relatively new surgical approach with a slow learning curve due to one-handed dissection. A reusable and customizable 3-dimensional (3D)-printed endoscopic ear surgery simulator may facilitate the development of surgical skills with high fidelity and low cost. Herein, we aim to design, fabricate, and test a low-cost and reusable 3D-printed TEES simulator. The TEES simulator was designed in computer-aided design (CAD) software using anatomic measurements taken from anthropometric studies. Cross sections from external auditory canal samples were traced as vectors and serially combined into a mesh construct. A modified tympanic cavity with a modular testing platform for simulator tasks was incorporated. Components were fabricated using calcium sulfate hemihydrate powder and multiple colored infiltrants via a commercial inkjet 3D-printing service. All components of a left-sided ear were printed to scale. Six right-handed trainees completed three trials each. Mean trial time (n = 3) ranged from 23.03 to 62.77 s using the dominant hand for all dissection. Statistically significant differences between first and last completion time with the dominant hand (p < 0.05) and average completion time for junior and senior residents (p < 0.05) suggest construct validity. A 3D-printed simulator is feasible for TEES simulation. Otolaryngology training programs with access to a 3D printer may readily fabricate a TEES simulator, resulting in inexpensive yet high-fidelity surgical simulation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. A laboratory silicone for preclinical training in ear prosthesis.

    PubMed

    Anand, Vijay; Haribabu; Vimala; Gnanasamband, Vimala

    2013-07-01

    This article describes an industrial elastic silicone as a material for the laboratory fabrication of ear prosthesis. It has been tested for toxicity in lab animals by the SGS India Pvt. Ltd and approved as a material to pass the parameter of abnormal toxicity. This material therefore can be safely recommended for laboratory exercise to fabricate facial prosthesis. The high cost of the maxillo facial silicone materials prohibits their use for facial prosthesis in pre-clinical training of post-graduate students in maxillofacial prosthodontics. For this reason, pre-clinical laboratory exercise in facial prosthesis is inadequate. A few institutions use polymethyl methacrylate resins which are rigid and do not have elastic characteristics of silicone, which is used for facial defects. This cost-effective industrial silicone material which mimics the elastic and color characteristics of the conventional silicones can be recommended for preclinical exercises.

  8. A randomized controlled trial of simulation-based training for ear, nose, and throat emergencies.

    PubMed

    Smith, Matthew Edward; Navaratnam, Annakan; Jablenska, Lily; Dimitriadis, Panagiotis A; Sharma, Rishi

    2015-08-01

    Life-threatening ear, nose, and throat (ENT) emergencies are uncommon but require immediate skilled management. We investigated if traditional lecture-based teaching can be improved by a simulation and lecture hybrid approach. A single-blinded, prospective, randomized controlled trial. Two groups of interns with no previous ENT experience were randomized to one of two training groups: a simulation/lecture hybrid group or a lecture-only control group. Both groups received 90 minutes of training covering the assessment of critically ill patients and four ENT emergency topics. Both groups received the same initial lecture slides. The control group received additional slides, and the simulation group received simulated emergency scenario training using basic mannequins. Following the training, candidates were asked to provide feedback on their perception of training, and they were formally assessed with a standardized one-to-one viva. Thirty-eight interns were recruited: 18 in the control group and 20 in the simulation group. The candidates in the simulation group performed significantly better in all viva situations (P < .05) and had better perception of learning (P < .05). Additionally, the simulation group was more likely to recommend the training to a colleague (P < .05). We have demonstrated that replacing traditional lecture-based training with a mixture of lectures and emergency scenario simulation is more effective at preparing junior doctors for ENT emergencies, and better met their learning needs. Implementing this kind of teaching is feasible with a minimum of additional resources or time. 1b © 2015 The American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society, Inc.

  9. Pulse-rate discrimination by cochlear-implant and normal-hearing listeners with and without binaural cues

    PubMed Central

    Carlyon, Robert P.; Long, Christopher J.; Deeks, John M.

    2008-01-01

    Experiment 1 measured rate discrimination of electric pulse trains by bilateral cochlear implant (CI) users, for standard rates of 100, 200, and 300 pps. In the diotic condition the pulses were presented simultaneously to the two ears. Consistent with previous results with unilateral stimulation, performance deteriorated at higher standard rates. In the signal interval of each trial in the dichotic condition, the standard rate was presented to the left ear and the (higher) signal rate was presented to the right ear; the non-signal intervals were the same as in the diotic condition. Performance in the dichotic condition was better for some listeners than in the diotic condition for standard rates of 100 and 200 pps, but not at 300 pps. It is concluded that the deterioration in rate discrimination observed for CI users at high rates cannot be alleviated by the introduction of a binaural cue, and is unlikely to be limited solely by central pitch processes. Experiment 2 performed an analogous experiment in which 300-pps acoustic pulse trains were bandpass filtered (3900-5400 Hz) and presented in a noise background to normal-hearing listeners. Unlike the results of experiment 1, performance was superior in the dichotic than in the diotic condition. PMID:18397032

  10. 76 FR 18624 - Research, Technical Assistance and Training Programs: Notice of Final Circular

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-04-04

    ... to FTA Circular 6100.1D, Research and Technical Assistance Training Program: Application Instructions... DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Transit Administration Research, Technical Assistance and Training Programs: Notice of Final Circular AGENCY: Federal Transit Administration (FTA), DOT. ACTION...

  11. 7 CFR 1775.66 - Purpose.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ...) Provide technical assistance and/or training to reduce the solid waste stream through reduction, recycling... landfills. (c) Provide technical assistance and/or training for operators of landfills which are closed or... with providing the technical assistance and/or training authorized in paragraphs (a) through (d) of...

  12. Surgical anatomy and pathology of the middle ear.

    PubMed

    Luers, Jan Christoffer; Hüttenbrink, Karl-Bernd

    2016-02-01

    Middle ear surgery is strongly influenced by anatomical and functional characteristics of the middle ear. The complex anatomy means a challenge for the otosurgeon who moves between preservation or improvement of highly important functions (hearing, balance, facial motion) and eradication of diseases. Of these, perforations of the tympanic membrane, chronic otitis media, tympanosclerosis and cholesteatoma are encountered most often in clinical practice. Modern techniques for reconstruction of the ossicular chain aim for best possible hearing improvement using delicate alloplastic titanium prostheses, but a number of prosthesis-unrelated factors work against this intent. Surgery is always individualized to the case and there is no one-fits-all strategy. Above all, both middle ear diseases and surgery can be associated with a number of complications; the most important ones being hearing deterioration or deafness, dizziness, facial palsy and life-threatening intracranial complications. To minimize risks, a solid knowledge of and respect for neurootologic structures is essential for an otosurgeon who must train him- or herself intensively on temporal bones before performing surgery on a patient. © 2015 Anatomical Society.

  13. Training and technical assistance to enhance capacity building between prevention research centers and their partners.

    PubMed

    Spadaro, Antonia J; Grunbaum, Jo Anne; Dawkins, Nicola U; Wright, Demia S; Rubel, Stephanie K; Green, Diane C; Simoes, Eduardo J

    2011-05-01

    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has administered the Prevention Research Centers Program since 1986. We quantified the number and reach of training programs across all centers, determined whether the centers' outcomes varied by characteristics of the academic institution, and explored potential benefits of training and technical assistance for academic researchers and community partners. We characterized how these activities enhanced capacity building within Prevention Research Centers and the community. The program office collected quantitative information on training across all 33 centers via its Internet-based system from April through December 2007. Qualitative data were collected from April through May 2007. We selected 9 centers each for 2 separate, semistructured, telephone interviews, 1 on training and 1 on technical assistance. Across 24 centers, 4,777 people were trained in 99 training programs in fiscal year 2007 (October 1, 2006-September 30, 2007). Nearly 30% of people trained were community members or agency representatives. Training and technical assistance activities provided opportunities to enhance community partners' capacity in areas such as conducting needs assessments and writing grants and to improve the centers' capacity for cultural competency. Both qualitative and quantitative data demonstrated that training and technical assistance activities can foster capacity building and provide a reciprocal venue to support researchers' and the community's research interests. Future evaluation could assess community and public health partners' perception of centers' training programs and technical assistance.

  14. 76 FR 69612 - Amendment to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations: Sudan

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-11-09

    ... related technical training and assistance to monitoring, verification, or peace support operations... uses, and related technical training and assistance; (3) personal protective gear for the personal use... technical training and assistance to monitoring, verification, or peace support operations, including those...

  15. 77 FR 60140 - Notice of Proposed Information Collection; Request for Comments

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-10-02

    ... renewed approval for the collection of information for two technical training program course effectiveness... of information contained in two technical training program course effectiveness evaluation forms. OSM... days in which to comment on the following information collection activities: Title: Technical Training...

  16. On-line Naval Engineering Skills Supplemental Training Program

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2010-01-01

    Defense Technical University ( DTU ), the technical content for courses would have to be provided by the Naval technical authorities...of technological knowledge related to design engineering such as the DTU , or expanded within the mission scope of an existing organization such as...management program as a training tool for naval design engineers such as the DTU or a technical extension of the DAU program for acquisition training

  17. 7 CFR 1775.31 - Authorization.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... (CONTINUED) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE GRANTS Technical Assistance and Training Grants § 1775.31 Authorization. This subpart sets forth additional policies and procedures for making Technical Assistance and Training...

  18. Community triage of otology patients using a store-and-forward telemedicine device: A feasibility study.

    PubMed

    Gupta, Nishi; Chawla, Neeraj; Gupta, Digant; Dhawan, Nidhi; Janaki, Vidya R

    2017-07-01

    Chronic otitis media is a major contributor to acquired hearing loss in developing countries. Developing countries such as India, with huge populations and poor health infrastructures, have always felt the shortage of trained specialists who can provide quality care to meet the enormous demand for treatment of this disease. This pilot study assessed the feasibility of empowering trained health workers equipped with ENTraview, a store-and-forward telemedicine device that integrates a camera- enabled smart phone with an otoscope. This device allows the screening of otology patients within the community. Three months of extensive training was provided to five community health workers on primary ear and hearing care, including training on the use of the ENTraview device. Community otology screenings were conducted to triage otology patients and provide them with specialized ENT care at a tertiary hospital. In the initial 6 months of the project, 45 screening camps were organized, which screened 3,000 patients free of cost. Of these 3,000 screened patients, 54% (1,619) were referred for ENT consultation and 215 patients reported. Nearly 50% (103) of the 215 reporting patients required surgical intervention, and 29 patients underwent surgery. Reaching out to the community by remote screening of ear diseases by trained technicians with a telemedicine device seems to be an effective and cost-effective way to triage patients with otologic pathologies.

  19. 76 FR 17963 - Renewal of Agency Information Collection for Application for Job Placement and Training Services...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-03-31

    ... training program, which provides vocational/technical training, related counseling, guidance, job placement... the job placement and training program, which provides vocational/technical training, related... Application for Job Placement and Training Services; Request for Comments AGENCY: Bureau of Indian Affairs...

  20. Predicting dynamic range and intensity discrimination for electrical pulse-train stimuli using a stochastic auditory nerve model: the effects of stimulus noise.

    PubMed

    Xu, Yifang; Collins, Leslie M

    2005-06-01

    This work investigates dynamic range and intensity discrimination for electrical pulse-train stimuli that are modulated by noise using a stochastic auditory nerve model. Based on a hypothesized monotonic relationship between loudness and the number of spikes elicited by a stimulus, theoretical prediction of the uncomfortable level has previously been determined by comparing spike counts to a fixed threshold, Nucl. However, no specific rule for determining Nucl has been suggested. Our work determines the uncomfortable level based on the excitation pattern of the neural response in a normal ear. The number of fibers corresponding to the portion of the basilar membrane driven by a stimulus at an uncomfortable level in a normal ear is related to Nucl at an uncomfortable level of the electrical stimulus. Intensity discrimination limens are predicted using signal detection theory via the probability mass function of the neural response and via experimental simulations. The results show that the uncomfortable level for pulse-train stimuli increases slightly as noise level increases. Combining this with our previous threshold predictions, we hypothesize that the dynamic range for noise-modulated pulse-train stimuli should increase with additive noise. However, since our predictions indicate that intensity discrimination under noise degrades, overall intensity coding performance may not improve significantly.

  1. 77 FR 73673 - Notice of Proposed Information Collection; Request for Comments

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-12-11

    ... to request approval to continue the collection of information for one of its Technical Training... approval. This collection is for the OSM Technical Training Nomination and Request for Payment Form (OSM.... Title: Nomination and Request for Payment Form for OSM Technical Training Courses. OMB Control Number...

  2. 77 FR 31868 - Notice of Submission of Proposed Information Collection to OMB; Office of Native American...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-05-30

    ... Proposed Information Collection to OMB; Office of Native American Programs (ONAP) Training and Technical.... 552) authorizes HUD to award training and technical assistance contracts on a competitive basis. HUD intends to competitively award training and technical assistance contracts to national and regional...

  3. 75 FR 34251 - Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services; Overview Information; Centers for...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-06-16

    ... Information; Centers for Independent Living Program--Training and Technical Assistance; Notice Inviting... Training and Technical Assistance Project. Program Authority: 29 U.S.C. 796f(b); American Recovery and... Independent Living Program--Training and Technical Assistance--CFDA Number 84.400B must be submitted...

  4. 78 FR 36578 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comments Requested: Office for...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-06-18

    ... Collection; Comments Requested: Office for Victims of Crime Training and Technical Assistance Center (OVC...; Businesses or other for-profit. Abstract: The Office for Victims of Crime Training and Technical Assistance... will deliver these forms to recipients of online training and technical assistance and, in some cases...

  5. 77 FR 16250 - Notice of Proposed Information Collection for Public Comment; Office of Native American Programs...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-03-20

    ... Information Collection for Public Comment; Office of Native American Programs (ONAP) Training and Technical... subject proposal. The data required by Office of Native American Programs Training and Technical... progress. The data identifies needs, outputs and outcomes of the training and technical assistance. DATES...

  6. 31 CFR 547.301 - Arms or any related materiel.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ...) Supplies of arms and related materiel, technical training, and assistance intended solely for support of or... of arms and related materiel, technical training, and assistance described in paragraphs (a)(1... technical training and assistance intended solely for support of or use by MONUC; (c) Supplies of non-lethal...

  7. 75 FR 9193 - Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services; Overview Information; Assistive...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-03-01

    ... Information; Assistive Technology Act of 1998, as Amended--National Activities--State Training and Technical... requirement to support training and technical assistance to the entities funded under the AT Act to improve... applications that meet this priority. This priority is: State Training and Technical Assistance for Assistive...

  8. 75 FR 5801 - Notice of Proposed Information Collection for 1029-0120

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-02-04

    ... request for its Nomination and Request for Payment Form for OSM Technical Training Courses, has been... Nomination and Request for Payment Form for OSM Technical Training Courses. OSM is requesting a 3- year term... information collection activity: Title: Nomination and Request for Payment Form for OSM Technical Training...

  9. 34 CFR 366.15 - What selection criteria does the Secretary use?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... Training and Technical Assistance § 366.15 What selection criteria does the Secretary use? The Secretary uses the following criteria to evaluate applications for new awards for training and technical... project; and (2) How the objectives further training and technical assistance with respect to planning...

  10. 76 FR 35103 - Training and Qualification Requirements for Check Airmen and Flight Instructors; Technical Amendment

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-06-16

    ... which initial and transition flight training must include an in-flight element. Technical Amendment This.... 28471; Amendment Nos. 121-355 and 135-125] RIN 2120-AF08 Training and Qualification Requirements for Check Airmen and Flight Instructors; Technical Amendment AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA...

  11. Technical Training for Managers.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Haverland, Edgar M.

    The question has arisen as to what kind of information a manager without extensive technical training needs to learn to supervise effectively. For example, the Nike Hercules fire control platoon leader, usually an officer in his first active duty assignment, seldom has had extensive technical training. Yet he is responsibile for the…

  12. Emotions on the loose: emotional contagion and the role of oxytocin in pigs.

    PubMed

    Reimert, Inonge; Bolhuis, J Elizabeth; Kemp, Bas; Rodenburg, T Bas

    2015-03-01

    We studied emotional contagion, a simple form of empathy, and the role of oxytocin herein in pigs. Two training pigs per pen (n = 16 pens) were subjected to a positive treatment (pairwise access to a large compartment filled with peat, straw and some chocolate raisins) and a negative treatment (social isolation in a small compartment) in a test room using a within-subjects design. Thereafter, two naive pen mates joined the training pigs in the test room, but were not given access to the treatments. This allowed testing for emotional contagion. Subsequently, the naive pigs, serving as their own controls, were given 24 IU of oxytocin or a placebo intranasally 30 min before accompanying the training pigs, which were exposed to either the negative or positive treatment, to the test room. Behavioral differences found between the positive and negative treatments (e.g., play and "tail wagging" vs. standing alert, urinating, defecating and ears backward) show that the treatments induced a positive and negative emotional state in the training pigs, respectively. Changes in behaviors of the training pigs with and without naive pigs present (e.g., in ears backwards) and of the naive pigs with and without training pigs present (e.g., in standing alert) indicated that emotional contagion occurred, especially during the negative treatment. Oxytocin did not seem to affect the behavior of the treated naive pigs, but did affect behaviors (e.g., defecating) of the training pigs which had not received oxytocin. This suggests a role for oxytocin in pig communication, which merits further research.

  13. Training and technical assistance for compliance with beverage and physical activity components of New York City's regulations for early child care centers.

    PubMed

    Kakietek, Jakub; Dunn, Lillian; O'Dell, Sarah Abood; Jernigan, Jan; Kettel Khan, Laura

    2014-10-16

    In 2006, the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) passed regulations for child care centers that established standards for beverages provided to children and set a minimum amount of time for daily physical activity. DOHMH offered several types of training and technical assistance to support compliance with the regulations. This article analyzes the association between training and technical assistance provided and compliance with the regulations in a sample of 174 group child care centers. Compliance was measured by using a site inventory of beverages stored on premises and a survey of centers' teachers regarding the amount of physical activity provided. Training and technical assistance measures were based on the DOHMH records of training and technical assistance provided to the centers in the sample and on a survey of center directors. Ordinal logistic regression was used to assess the association between training and technical assistance measures and compliance with the regulations. Measures of training related to physical activity the center received: the number of staff members who participated in Sport, Play and Active Recreation for Kids (SPARK) and other training programs in which a center participated were associated with better compliance with the physical activity regulations. Neither training nor technical assistance were associated with compliance with the regulations related to beverages. Increased compliance with regulations pertaining to physical activity was not related to compliance with beverage regulations. Future trainings should be targeted to the specific regulation requirements to increase compliance.

  14. Cognitive load in distributed and massed practice in virtual reality mastoidectomy simulation.

    PubMed

    Andersen, Steven Arild Wuyts; Mikkelsen, Peter Trier; Konge, Lars; Cayé-Thomasen, Per; Sørensen, Mads Sølvsten

    2016-02-01

    Cognitive load theory states that working memory is limited. This has implications for learning and suggests that reducing cognitive load (CL) could promote learning and skills acquisition. This study aims to explore the effect of repeated practice and simulator-integrated tutoring on CL in virtual reality (VR) mastoidectomy simulation. Prospective trial. Forty novice medical students performed 12 repeated virtual mastoidectomy procedures in the Visible Ear Simulator: 21 completed distributed practice with practice blocks spaced in time and 19 participants completed massed practice (all practices performed in 1 day). Participants were randomized for tutoring with the simulator-integrated tutor function. Cognitive load was estimated by measuring reaction time in a secondary task. Data were analyzed using linear mixed models for repeated measurements. The mean reaction time increased by 37% during the procedure compared with baseline, demonstrating that the procedure placed substantial cognitive demands. Repeated practice significantly lowered CL in the distributed practice group but not in massed practice group. In addition, CL was found to be further increased by 10.3% in the later and more complex stages of the procedure. The simulator-integrated tutor function did not have an impact on CL. Distributed practice decreased CL in repeated VR mastoidectomy training more consistently than was seen in massed practice. This suggests a possible effect of skills and memory consolidation occurring over time. To optimize technical skills learning, training should be organized as time-distributed practice rather than as a massed block of practice, which is common in skills-training courses. N/A. © 2015 The American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society, Inc.

  15. 48 CFR 252.225-7048 - Export-Controlled Items.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ...) “Defense items,” defined in the Arms Export Control Act, 22 U.S.C. 2778(j)(4)(A), as defense articles, defense services, and related technical data, and further defined in the ITAR, 22 CFR Part 120; and (2) “Items,” defined in the EAR as “commodities”, “software”, and “technology,” terms that are also defined...

  16. 48 CFR 252.225-7048 - Export-Controlled Items.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ...) “Defense items,” defined in the Arms Export Control Act, 22 U.S.C. 2778(j)(4)(A), as defense articles, defense services, and related technical data, and further defined in the ITAR, 22 CFR Part 120; and (2) “Items,” defined in the EAR as “commodities”, “software”, and “technology,” terms that are also defined...

  17. RNA analysis of inner ear cells from formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) archival human temporal bone section using laser microdissection--a technical report.

    PubMed

    Kimura, Yurika; Kubo, Sachiho; Koda, Hiroko; Shigemoto, Kazuhiro; Sawabe, Motoji; Kitamura, Ken

    2013-08-01

    Molecular analysis using archival human inner ear specimens is challenging because of the anatomical complexity, long-term fixation, and decalcification. However, this method may provide great benefit for elucidation of otological diseases. Here, we extracted mRNA for RT-PCR from tissues dissected from archival FFPE human inner ears by laser microdissection. Three human temporal bones obtained at autopsy were fixed in formalin, decalcified by EDTA, and embedded in paraffin. The samples were isolated into spiral ligaments, outer hair cells, spiral ganglion cells, and stria vascularis by laser microdissection. RNA was extracted and heat-treated in 10 mM citrate buffer to remove the formalin-derived modification. To identify the sites where COCH and SLC26A5 mRNA were expressed, semi-nested RT-PCR was performed. We also examined how long COCH mRNA could be amplified by semi-nested RT-PCR in archival temporal bone. COCH was expressed in the spiral ligament and stria vascularis. However, SLC26A5 was expressed only in outer hair cells. The maximum base length of COCH mRNA amplified by RT-PCR was 98 bp in 1 case and 123 bp in 2 cases. We detected COCH and SLC26A5 mRNA in specific structures and cells of the inner ear from archival human temporal bone. Our innovative method using laser microdissection and semi-nested RT-PCR should advance future RNA study of human inner ear diseases. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  18. 13 CFR 306.1 - Purpose and scope.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... TRAINING, RESEARCH AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE INVESTMENTS Local and National Technical Assistance § 306.1 Purpose and scope. (a) Local and National Technical Assistance Investments may: (1) Determine the causes... business. (c) EDA may identify specific training, research or technical assistance Projects it will fund...

  19. ASTD Technical and Skills Training Handbook.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kelly, Leslie, Ed.

    This handbook is intended to serve as a hands-on reference for technical trainers, many of whom are resident experts in corporations who have been recruited from within the organization rather than individuals with training background. It contains 23 chapters by experts in the field: (1) The History of Technical Training (Richard A. Swanson and…

  20. 77 FR 55862 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Revision of Currently Approved Collection; Comments...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-09-11

    ... Crime Training and Technical Assistance Center (OVC TTAC) Feedback Form Package ACTION: 60-Day Notice of... institutions; Businesses or other for-profit. Abstract: The Office for Victims of Crime Training and Technical... forms to recipients of training and technical assistance, scholarship applicants, users of the Web site...

  1. 78 FR 12782 - Notice of Proposed Information Collection; Request for Comments for 1029-0120

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-02-25

    ... information collection request for the Nomination and Request for Payment Form for OSM's Technical Training... Payment Form for OSM Technical Training Courses. OSM is requesting a 3-year term of approval for this... collection activity: Title: Nomination and Request for Payment Form for OSM Technical Training Courses. OMB...

  2. 20 CFR 411.180 - What is timely progress toward self-supporting employment?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... certificate or vocational or technical training that will enhance your ability to return to work. In addition...-secondary education requirement or vocational or technical training requirement in the applicable progress... this 12-month period; or (iv) You must have been enrolled in a vocational or technical training program...

  3. Technical and Vocational Education and Training in Peace Education: Solomon Islands

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Maebuta, Jack

    2011-01-01

    Technical and vocational education and training programs as a form of peace education are examined in this paper. It explores the notion of educating for a culture of peace through refocusing technical and vocational education and training programs on sustainable community development in the Solomon Islands. It further highlights the policy and…

  4. Development and Initial Validation of a Consumer Questionnaire to Predict the Presence of Ear Disease.

    PubMed

    Kleindienst, Samantha J; Zapala, David A; Nielsen, Donald W; Griffith, James W; Rishiq, Dania; Lundy, Larry; Dhar, Sumitrajit

    2017-10-01

    The already large population of individuals with age- or noise-related hearing loss in the United States is increasing, yet hearing aids remain largely inaccessible. The recent decision by the US Food and Drug Administration to not enforce the medical examination prior to hearing aid fitting highlights the need to reengineer consumer protections when increasing accessibility. A self-administered tool to estimate ear disease risk would provide disease surveillance without posing an unreasonable barrier to hearing aid procurement. To develop and validate a consumer questionnaire for the self-assessment of risk for ear diseases associated with hearing loss. The questionnaire was developed using established methods including expert opinion to validate and create questions, and cognitive interviews to ensure that questions were clear to respondents. Exploratory structural equation modeling, logistic regression, and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis were used to determine sensitivity and specificity with blinded neurotologist opinion as the criterion for evaluation. Patients 40 to 80 years old with ear or hearing complaints necessitating a neurotologic examination and a control group of participants with a diagnosis of age- or noise-related hearing loss participated at the Departments of Otorhinolaryngology and Audiology of Mayo Clinic Florida. Sensitivity and specificity of the prototype questionnaire to identify individuals with targeted diseases. Of 307 participants (mean [SD] age, 62.9 [9.8] years; 148 [48%] female), 75% (n = 231) were enrolled with targeted disease(s) identified on neurotologic assessment and 25% (n = 76) with age- or noise-related hearing loss. Participants were randomly divided into a training sample (80% [n = 246; 185 with disease, 61 controls]) and a test sample (20% [n = 61; 46 with disease, 15 controls]). Using a simple scoring method, a sensitivity of 94% (95% CI, 89%-97%) and specificity of 61% (95% CI, 47%-73%) were established in the training sample. Applying this cutoff to the test sample resulted in 85% (95% CI, 71%-93%) sensitivity and 47% (95% CI, 22%-73%) specificity. This is the first self-assessment tool designed to assess an individual's risk for ear disease. Our preliminary results demonstrate a high sensitivity to disease detection. A further validated and refined version of this questionnaire may serve as an efficacious tool for improving access to hearing health care while minimizing the risk for missed ear diseases.

  5. Training the Technical Editor.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cathcart, Margaret E.

    The demand for skilled technical editors is growing as society places increasing emphasis on receiving accurate, concise, and complete technical data. Since many organizations do not have inhouse programs for training technical editors, a need exists to provide inexperienced people with basic editing skills. One organization has developed two…

  6. Training experiences immediately after medical school.

    PubMed

    Roche, A M; Sanson-Fisher, R W; Cockburn, J

    1997-01-01

    Trainees in all teaching hospitals in New South Wales were surveyed using a self-completion, postal questionnaire to assess perceptions of the quality and extent of training received for interactional and technical skills. The response rate was 67.1%. Mean age was 25.4 years and 38.8% were female. Overall, training was found to be generally poor in terms of time and educational strategies used. Interactional skills were found to receive lower levels of training than technical skills both prior to and during the intern year with significantly fewer (P < 0.000) educational strategies reported for training received in interactional skills than for technical skills. Trainees' perceptions of the adequacy of training was significantly more negative for interactional than technical skills (P < 0.001). Assessment of competence was also significantly lower for interactional than technical skills (P < 0.001). On average, fewer than one in three trainees considered themselves to be competent in interactional skills compared to two-thirds who reported themselves as competent for technical skills. The findings of this study highlight the need for improved efforts with regard to both the quality and quantity of training provided during the intern year. Considerable scope exists for improved educational experiences for both interactional and technical skill areas, but particularly for interactional skills. Overall, greater use of a range of basic educational strategies such as the provision of 'observation' and 'critical feedback' is indicated. Efforts also need to be directed toward the training of clinical educators to optimize the potential of the preregistration period.

  7. Evaluation of simparteam - a needs-orientated team training format for obstetrics and neonatology.

    PubMed

    Zech, Alexandra; Gross, Benedict; Jasper-Birzele, Céline; Jeschke, Katharina; Kieber, Thomas; Lauterberg, Jörg; Lazarovici, Marc; Prückner, Stephan; Rall, Marcus; Reddersen, Silke; Sandmeyer, Benedikt; Scholz, Christoph; Stricker, Eric; Urban, Bert; Zobel, Astrid; Singer, Ingeborg

    2017-04-01

    A standardized team-training program for healthcare professionals in obstetric units was developed based on an analysis of common causes for adverse events found in claims registries. The interdisciplinary and inter-professional training concept included both technical and non-technical skill training. Evaluation of the program was carried out in hospitals with respect to the immediate personal learning of participants and also regarding changes in safety culture. Trainings in n=7 hospitals including n=270 participants was evaluated using questionnaires. These were administered at four points in time to staff from participating obstetric units: (1) 10 days ahead of the training (n=308), (2) on training day before (n=239), (3) right after training (n=248), and (4) 6 months after (n=188) the intervention. Questionnaires included several questions for technical and non-technical skills and the Hospital Survey on Patient Safety (HSOPS). Strong effects were found in the participants' perception of their own competence regarding technical skills and handling of emergencies. Small effects could be observed in the scales of the HSOPS questionnaire. Most effects differed depending on professional groups and hospitals. Integrated technical and team management training can raise employees' confidence with complex emergency management skills and processes. Some indications for improvements on the patient safety culture level were detected. Furthermore, differences between professional groups and hospitals were found, indicating the need for more research on contributing factors for patient safety and for the success of crew resource management (CRM) trainings.

  8. MR imaging of the inner ear: comparison of a three-dimensional fast spin-echo sequence with use of a dedicated quadrature-surface coil with a gadolinium-enhanced spoiled gradient-recalled sequence.

    PubMed

    Naganawa, S; Ito, T; Fukatsu, H; Ishigaki, T; Nakashima, T; Ichinose, N; Kassai, Y; Miyazaki, M

    1998-09-01

    To prospectively evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging in the inner ear with a long echo train, three-dimensional (3D), asymmetric Fourier-transform, fast spin-echo (SE) sequence with use of a dedicated quadrature-surface phased-array coil to detect vestibular schwannoma in the cerebellopontine angle and the internal auditory canal. In 205 patients (410 ears) with ear symptoms, 1.5-T MR imaging was performed with unenhanced 3D asymmetric fast SE and gadolinium-enhanced 3D gradient-recalled (SPGR) sequences with use of a quadrature surface phased-array coil. The 3D asymmetric fast SE images were reviewed by two radiologists, with the gadolinium-enhanced 3D SPGR images used as the standard of reference. Nineteen lesions were detected in the 410 ears (diameter range, 2-30 mm; mean, 10.5 mm +/- 6.4 [standard deviation]; five lesions were smaller than 5 mm). With 3D asymmetric fast SE, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy, respectively, were 100%, 99.5%, and 99.5% for observer 1 and 100%, 99.7%, and 99.8% for observer 2. The unenhanced 3D asymmetric fast SE sequence with a quadrature-surface phased-array coli allows the reliable detection of vestibular schwannoma in the cerebellopontine angle and internal auditory canal.

  9. Single-channel in-ear-EEG detects the focus of auditory attention to concurrent tone streams and mixed speech.

    PubMed

    Fiedler, Lorenz; Wöstmann, Malte; Graversen, Carina; Brandmeyer, Alex; Lunner, Thomas; Obleser, Jonas

    2017-06-01

    Conventional, multi-channel scalp electroencephalography (EEG) allows the identification of the attended speaker in concurrent-listening ('cocktail party') scenarios. This implies that EEG might provide valuable information to complement hearing aids with some form of EEG and to install a level of neuro-feedback. To investigate whether a listener's attentional focus can be detected from single-channel hearing-aid-compatible EEG configurations, we recorded EEG from three electrodes inside the ear canal ('in-Ear-EEG') and additionally from 64 electrodes on the scalp. In two different, concurrent listening tasks, participants (n  =  7) were fitted with individualized in-Ear-EEG pieces and were either asked to attend to one of two dichotically-presented, concurrent tone streams or to one of two diotically-presented, concurrent audiobooks. A forward encoding model was trained to predict the EEG response at single EEG channels. Each individual participants' attentional focus could be detected from single-channel EEG response recorded from short-distance configurations consisting only of a single in-Ear-EEG electrode and an adjacent scalp-EEG electrode. The differences in neural responses to attended and ignored stimuli were consistent in morphology (i.e. polarity and latency of components) across subjects. In sum, our findings show that the EEG response from a single-channel, hearing-aid-compatible configuration provides valuable information to identify a listener's focus of attention.

  10. Music and Computing.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Boody, Charles G., Ed.

    1986-01-01

    Six articles on music and computing address development of computer-based music technology, computer assisted instruction (CAI) in ear training and music fundamentals, a machine-independent data structure for musical pitch relationship representation, touch tablet input device in a melodic dictation CAI game, and systematic evaluation strategies…

  11. Urology technical and non-technical skills development: the emerging role of simulation.

    PubMed

    Rashid, Prem; Gianduzzo, Troy R J

    2016-04-01

    To review the emerging role of technical and non-technical simulation in urological education and training. A review was conducted to examine the current role of simulation in urology training. A PUBMED search of the terms 'urology training', 'urology simulation' and 'urology education' revealed 11,504 titles. Three hundred and fifty-seven abstracts were identified as English language, peer reviewed papers pertaining to the role of simulation in urology and related topics. Key papers were used to explore themes. Some cross-referenced papers were also included. There is an ongoing need to ensure that training time is efficiently utilised while ensuring that optimal technical and non-technical skills are achieved. Changing working conditions and the need to minimise patient harm by inadvertent errors must be taken into account. Simulation models for specific technical aspects have been the mainstay of graduated step-wise low and high fidelity training. Whole scenario environments as well as non-technical aspects can be slowly incorporated into the curriculum. Doing so should also help define what have been challenging competencies to teach and evaluate. Dedicated time, resources and trainer up-skilling are important. Concurrent studies are needed to help evaluate the effectiveness of introducing step-wise simulation for technical and non-technical competencies. Simulation based learning remains the best avenue of progressing surgical education. Technical and non-technical simulation could be used in the selection process. There are good economic, logistic and safety reasons to pursue the process of ongoing development of simulation co-curricula. While the role of simulation is assured, its progress will depend on a structured program that takes advantage of what can be delivered via this medium. Overall, simulation can be developed further for urological training programs to encompass technical and non-technical skill development at all stages, including recertification. © 2015 The Authors BJU International © 2015 BJU International Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  12. The Imperial Paediatric Emergency Training Toolkit (IPETT) for use in paediatric emergency training: development and evaluation of feasibility and validity.

    PubMed

    Lambden, Simon; DeMunter, Claudine; Dowson, Anne; Cooper, Mehrengise; Gautama, Sanjay; Sevdalis, Nick

    2013-06-01

    To develop and test the feasibility, reliability, and validity of a practical toolkit for the assessment and feedback of skills required to manage paediatric emergencies in critical care settings. The Imperial Paediatric Emergency Training Toolkit (IPETT) was developed based on current evidence-base and expert input. IPETT assesses both technical and non-technical skills. The technical component covers skills in the areas of clinical assessment, airway and breathing, cardiovascular, and drugs. The non-technical component is based on the validated NOTECHS tool and covers communication and interaction, cooperation and team skills, leadership and managerial skills, and decision-making. The reliability (internal consistency), content validity (inter-correlations between different skills) and concurrent validity (correlations between global technical and non-technical scores) of IPETT were prospectively evaluated in 45 simulated paediatric crises carried out in a PICU with anaesthetic and paediatric trainees (N=52). Non-parametric analyses were carried out. Significance was set at P<0.05. Cronbach alpha reliability coefficients were overall acceptable for the technical (alpha range=0.638-0.810) and good for the non-technical (alpha range=0.701-0.899) component of IPETT. The median inter-skill correlation was rho=0.564 and rho=0.549 for the technical and non-technical components, respectively. These indicate good content validity, as the skills were inter-related but not redundant. We also demonstrate a correlation between the global technical and non-technical scores (rho=0.471) - all Ps<0.05 during the assessments. IPETT offers a psychometrically viable and feasible to use tool in the context of paediatric emergencies training. This study shows that assessment of technical and non-technical skills in combination may offer a more clinically relevant model for training in paediatric emergencies. Further validation should aim to demonstrate skill retention over time and skill transfer from simulation-based training to real emergencies. Copyright © 2013. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.

  13. An “EAR” on environmental surveillance and monitoring: A case study on the use of Exposure–Activity Ratios (EARs) to prioritize sites, chemicals, and bioactivities of concern in Great Lakes waters

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Blackwell, Brett R.; Ankley, Gerald T.; Corsi, Steven; DeCicco, Laura; Houck, Kieth A.; Judson, Richard S.; Li, Shibin; Martin, Matthew T.; Murphy, Elizabeth; Schroeder, Anthony L.; Smith, Edwin R.; Swintek, Joe; Villeneuve, Daniel L.

    2017-01-01

    Current environmental monitoring approaches focus primarily on chemical occurrence. However, based on concentration alone, it can be difficult to identify which compounds may be of toxicological concern and should be prioritized for further monitoring, in-depth testing, or management. This can be problematic because toxicological characterization is lacking for many emerging contaminants. New sources of high-throughput screening (HTS) data, such as the ToxCast database, which contains information for over 9000 compounds screened through up to 1100 bioassays, are now available. Integrated analysis of chemical occurrence data with HTS data offers new opportunities to prioritize chemicals, sites, or biological effects for further investigation based on concentrations detected in the environment linked to relative potencies in pathway-based bioassays. As a case study, chemical occurrence data from a 2012 study in the Great Lakes Basin along with the ToxCast effects database were used to calculate exposure–activity ratios (EARs) as a prioritization tool. Technical considerations of data processing and use of the ToxCast database are presented and discussed. EAR prioritization identified multiple sites, biological pathways, and chemicals that warrant further investigation. Prioritized bioactivities from the EAR analysis were linked to discrete adverse outcome pathways to identify potential adverse outcomes and biomarkers for use in subsequent monitoring efforts.

  14. The role of simulation in urological training - A quantitative study of practice and opinions.

    PubMed

    Aydin, Abdullatif; Ahmed, Kamran; Shafi, Ahmed M A; Khan, Muhammad Shamim; Dasgupta, Prokar

    2016-12-01

    Over the past few decades, simulation-based training has rapidly been adopted by many centres for effective technical and non-technical skills training, as a supplementary method to traditional operating room experience. The aim of this study is to assess the current practice in training and seek opinion regarding the future role of simulation in urological training. A cross sectional survey was designed and distributed amongst expert and trainee urological surgeons. The survey consisted of twenty-two questions that were split into three sections; Introduction (6), Technical Skills training in urology (10) and Non-technical skills training in urology (6). A total of 91 residents and 172 specialists completed the survey. In both groups, there was an agreed consensus that laparoscopic training and exposure was insufficient as only 21% of trainees and 23% of specialists believed that they had sufficient training in this area. Furthermore, both groups lacked simulation-based training in common urological procedures including nephrectomy (62%), cystoscopy (69-74%), ureteroscopy (47-59%), transurethral resection of the prostate (56-65%) and percutaneous renal surgery (76-73%). 90% of trainees and 70% of specialists believed (agreed and strongly agreed) that there is a role for non-technical skills simulation in urological training. Simulation training has been under-used thus far and trainees face an uphill challenge to enhance their skills and technical abilities in the operating room. Simulation is recommended by both trainees and specialists and may represent one of the solutions to the challenges of safe and effective urology procedural training. Copyright © 2015 Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (Scottish charity number SC005317) and Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  15. 42 CFR 493.1411 - Standard; Technical consultant qualifications.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... training or experience to provide technical consultation for each of the specialties and subspecialties of... responsible. Note: The technical consultant requirements for “laboratory training or experience, or both” in... 42 Public Health 5 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Standard; Technical consultant qualifications. 493...

  16. 38 CFR 61.53 - Rating criteria for technical assistance grant applications.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ...: (1) How the recipients of technical training will increase their skill level regarding the completion of applications; (2) How the recipients of technical training will learn to find grant opportunities... technical assistance grant applications. 61.53 Section 61.53 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief...

  17. Preadapting to Weightlessness

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Reschke, M. F.; Parker, D. E.; Arrott, A. P.

    1986-01-01

    Report discusses physiological and physical concepts of proposed training system to precondition astronauts to weightless environment. System prevents motion sickness, often experienced during early part of orbital flight. Also helps prevent seasickness and other forms of terrestrial motion sickness, often experienced during early part of orbital flight. Training affects subject's perception of inner-ear signals, visual signals, and kinesthetic motion perception. Changed perception resembles that of astronauts who spent many days in space and adapted to weightlessness.

  18. Training Supplement Winter 2010 Journal of Special Operations Medicine. A Peer Reviewed Journal for SOF Medical Professionals

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2010-01-01

    spontaneous pneumothorax, HAPE, and pulmonary embolism . DISPOSITION: 1. Urgent evacuation if no response to treatment. 2. If the patient responds to...chest pain, dyspnea, mediastinal emphysema, subcutaneous emphysema, pneumothorax, and arterial gas embolism (AGE). . MANAGEMENT: 1. Middle ear A...ascending with a closed airway (i.e. breath-holding), and can cause pneumothorax or arterial gas embolism . Winter 2010 Training Supplement TMEPS A15

  19. Development and implementation of centralized simulation training: evaluation of feasibility, acceptability and construct validity.

    PubMed

    Shamim Khan, Mohammad; Ahmed, Kamran; Gavazzi, Andrea; Gohil, Rishma; Thomas, Libby; Poulsen, Johan; Ahmed, Munir; Jaye, Peter; Dasgupta, Prokar

    2013-03-01

    WHAT'S KNOWN ON THE SUBJECT? AND WHAT DOES THE STUDY ADD?: A competent urologist should not only have effective technical skills, but also other attributes that would make him/her a complete surgeon. These include team-working, communication and decision-making skills. Although evidence for effectiveness of simulation exists for individual simulators, there is a paucity of evidence for utility and effectiveness of these simulators in training programmes that aims to combine technical and non-technical skills training. This article explains the process of development and validation of a centrally coordinated simulation program (Participants - South-East Region Specialist Registrars) under the umbrella of the British Association for Urological Surgeons (BAUS) and the London Deanery. This program incorporated training of both technical (synthetic, animal and virtual reality models) and non-technical skills (simulated operating theatres). To establish the feasibility and acceptability of a centralized, simulation-based training-programme. Simulation is increasingly establishing its role in urological training, with two areas that are relevant to urologists: (i) technical skills and (ii) non-technical skills. For this London Deanery supported pilot Simulation and Technology enhanced Learning Initiative (STeLI) project, we developed a structured multimodal simulation training programme. The programme incorporated: (i) technical skills training using virtual-reality simulators (Uro-mentor and Perc-mentor [Symbionix, Cleveland, OH, USA], Procedicus MIST-Nephrectomy [Mentice, Gothenburg, Sweden] and SEP Robotic simulator [Sim Surgery, Oslo, Norway]); bench-top models (synthetic models for cystocopy, transurethral resection of the prostate, transurethral resection of bladder tumour, ureteroscopy); and a European (Aalborg, Denmark) wet-lab training facility; as well as (ii) non-technical skills/crisis resource management (CRM), using SimMan (Laerdal Medical Ltd, Orpington, UK) to teach team-working, decision-making and communication skills. The feasibility, acceptability and construct validity of these training modules were assessed using validated questionnaires, as well as global and procedure/task-specific rating scales. In total 33, three specialist registrars of different grades and five urological nurses participated in the present study. Construct-validity between junior and senior trainees was significant. Of the participants, 90% rated the training models as being realistic and easy to use. In total 95% of the participants recommended the use of simulation during surgical training, 95% approved the format of the teaching by the faculty and 90% rated the sessions as well organized. A significant number of trainees (60%) would like to have easy access to a simulation facility to allow more practice and enhancement of their skills. A centralized simulation programme that provides training in both technical and non-technical skills is feasible. It is expected to improve the performance of future surgeons in a simulated environment and thus improve patient safety. © 2012 BJU International.

  20. Full immersion simulation: validation of a distributed simulation environment for technical and non-technical skills training in Urology.

    PubMed

    Brewin, James; Tang, Jessica; Dasgupta, Prokar; Khan, Muhammad S; Ahmed, Kamran; Bello, Fernando; Kneebone, Roger; Jaye, Peter

    2015-07-01

    To evaluate the face, content and construct validity of the distributed simulation (DS) environment for technical and non-technical skills training in endourology. To evaluate the educational impact of DS for urology training. DS offers a portable, low-cost simulated operating room environment that can be set up in any open space. A prospective mixed methods design using established validation methodology was conducted in this simulated environment with 10 experienced and 10 trainee urologists. All participants performed a simulated prostate resection in the DS environment. Outcome measures included surveys to evaluate the DS, as well as comparative analyses of experienced and trainee urologist's performance using real-time and 'blinded' video analysis and validated performance metrics. Non-parametric statistical methods were used to compare differences between groups. The DS environment demonstrated face, content and construct validity for both non-technical and technical skills. Kirkpatrick level 1 evidence for the educational impact of the DS environment was shown. Further studies are needed to evaluate the effect of simulated operating room training on real operating room performance. This study has shown the validity of the DS environment for non-technical, as well as technical skills training. DS-based simulation appears to be a valuable addition to traditional classroom-based simulation training. © 2014 The Authors BJU International © 2014 BJU International Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  1. 34 CFR 366.10 - What agencies are eligible for assistance to provide training and technical assistance?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... EDUCATION CENTERS FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING Training and Technical Assistance § 366.10 What agencies are... 34 Education 2 2011-07-01 2010-07-01 true What agencies are eligible for assistance to provide training and technical assistance? 366.10 Section 366.10 Education Regulations of the Offices of the...

  2. 34 CFR 366.11 - What financial assistance does the Secretary provide for training and technical assistance?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... EDUCATION CENTERS FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING Training and Technical Assistance § 366.11 What financial... 34 Education 2 2011-07-01 2010-07-01 true What financial assistance does the Secretary provide for training and technical assistance? 366.11 Section 366.11 Education Regulations of the Offices of the...

  3. Repositioning Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) for Youths Employment and National Security in Nigeria

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ogbunaya, T. C.; Udoudo, Ekereobong S.

    2015-01-01

    The paper focused on repositioning Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) for youth's employment and national security in Nigeria. It examined briefly the concepts of technical vocational education and training (TVET), youths, unemployment and national security as well as the effects of unemployment on national security in Nigeria.…

  4. [Evaluation of a training system for middle ear surgery with optoelectric detection].

    PubMed

    Strauss, G; Bahrami, N; Pössneck, A; Strauss, M; Dietz, A; Korb, W; Lüth, T; Haase, R; Moeckel, H; Grunert, R

    2009-10-01

    This work presents a new training concept for surgery of the temporal bone. It is based on a model of gypsum plastic with optoelectric detection of risk structures. A prototypical evaluation is given. The training models are based on high-resolution computed tomographic data of a human skull. The resulting data set was printed by a three-dimensional (3D) printer. A 3D phantom is created from gypsum powder and a bonding agent. Risks structures are the facial nerve, semicircular canal, cochlea, ossicular chain, sigmoid sinus, dura, and internal carotid artery. An electrically conductive metal (Wood's metal) and a fiber-optic cable were used as detection materials for the risk structures. For evaluating the training system, a study was done with eight inexperienced and eight experienced ear surgeons. They were asked to perform temporal bone surgery using two identical training models (group A). In group B, the same surgeons underwent surgical training with human cadavers. In the case of injuries, the number, point in time, degree (facial nerve), and injured structure were documented during the training on the model. In addition, the total time needed was noted. The training systems could be used in all cases. Evaluation of the anatomic accuracy of the models showed results that were between 49.5% and 90% agreement with the anatomic origin. Error detection was evaluated with values between 79% and 100% agreement with the perception of an experienced surgeon. The operating setting was estimated to be better than the previous"gold standard." The possibility of completely replacing the previous training method, which uses cadavers, with the examined training model was affirmed. This study shows that the examined system fulfills the conditions for a new training concept for temporal bone surgery. The system connects the preliminary work with printed and sintered models with the possibilities of microsystem engineering. In addition, the model's digital database permits a complete virtual representation of the model with appropriate further applications ("look behind the wall," virtual endoscopy).

  5. Web-based multimedia vignettes in advanced community pharmacy practice experiences.

    PubMed

    Flowers, Schwanda K; Vanderbush, Ross E; Hastings, Jan K; West, Donna

    2010-04-12

    To evaluate the effectiveness of Web-based multimedia vignettes on complex drug administration techniques to augment the training of pharmacy students in advanced community pharmacy practice experiences. During the orientation for a community APPE, students were randomly assigned to either a study group or control group After they began their APPE, students in the study group were given an Internet address to access multimedia vignettes which they were required to watch to augment their training and standardize their counseling of patients in the use of inhalers and ear and eye drops. A 12-item questionnaire was administered to students in both groups at the orientation and again on the last day of the APPE to evaluate their knowledge of counseling patients in the use of inhalers and ear and eye drops. The control group did not experience any improvement in their counseling knowledge of the research topics during their month-long experience. Students in the intervention group scored higher on their postintervention test than students in the control group (p < 0.001). Student learning outcomes from experiential training can be improved through the use of Web-based multimedia instructional vignettes.

  6. NASA/DOD Aerospace Knowledge Diffusion Research Project. Paper 40: Technical communications in aerospace education: A study of AIAA student members

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Kennedy, John M.; Pinelli, Thomas E.; Barclay, Rebecca O.

    1994-01-01

    This paper describes the preliminary analysis of a survey of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) student members. In the paper we examine (1) the demographic characteristics of the students, (2) factors that affected their career decisions, (3) their career goals and aspirations, and (4) their training in technical communication and techniques for finding and using aerospace scientific and technical information (STI). We determine that aerospace engineering students receive training in technical communication skills and the use of STI. While those in the aerospace industry think that more training is needed, we believe the students receive the appropriate amount of training. We think that the differences between the amount of training students receive and the perception of training needs is related partially to the characteristics of the students and partially to the structure of the aerospace STI dissemination system. Overall, we conclude that the students' technical communication training and knowledge of STI, while limited by external forces, makes it difficult for students to achieve their career goals.

  7. Miniature, minimally invasive, tunable endoscope for investigation of the middle ear.

    PubMed

    Pawlowski, Michal E; Shrestha, Sebina; Park, Jesung; Applegate, Brian E; Oghalai, John S; Tkaczyk, Tomasz S

    2015-06-01

    We demonstrate a miniature, tunable, minimally invasive endoscope for diagnosis of the auditory system. The probe is designed to sharply image anatomical details of the middle ear without the need for physically adjusting the position of the distal end of the endoscope. This is achieved through the addition of an electrowetted, tunable, electronically-controlled lens to the optical train. Morphological imaging is enabled by scanning light emanating from an optical coherence tomography system. System performance was demonstrated by imaging part of the ossicular chain and wall of the middle ear cavity of a normal mouse. During the experiment, we electronically moved the plane of best focus from the incudo-stapedial joint to the stapedial artery. Repositioning the object plane allowed us to image anatomical details of the middle ear beyond the depth of field of a static optical system. We also demonstrated for the first time to our best knowledge, that an optical system with an electrowetted, tunable lens may be successfully employed to measure sound-induced vibrations within the auditory system by measuring the vibratory amplitude of the tympanic membrane in a normal mouse in response to pure tone stimuli.

  8. Naval Training Device Center Index of Technical Reports.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Walker, Lemuel E.

    Published Naval Training Device Center technical reports and some technical notes (those available through the Defense Documentation Center-DDC) which have resulted from basic research, exploratory development, and advanced development type projects are listed. The reports are indexed by technical note number, by title, and by contractor code. The…

  9. Undergraduate ear, nose and throat training: how do we inspire the next generation?

    PubMed

    Tailor, Bhavesh Vijay

    2018-05-10

    Historically, ENT has been a very competitive surgical specialty. In recent years, the number of applicants to higher surgical ENT training has been in decline. This is not surprising, given that the proportion of foundation doctors directly entering specialty training has fallen from 71.3% in 2011 to 42.6% in 2017. If this continues, there is a real possibility of under-filling training posts, which would be a setback to the British Association of Otorhinolaryngologists (ENT-UK) recommendation for an expansion of the specialist workforce. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

  10. Web-based technical assistance and training to promote community tobacco control policy change.

    PubMed

    Young, Walter F; Montgomery, Debbie; Nycum, Colleen; Burns-Martin, Lavon; Buller, David B

    2006-01-01

    In 1998 the tobacco industry was released of claims that provided monetary relief for states. A significant expansion of tobacco control activity in many states created a need to develop local capacity. Technical assistance and training for new and experienced staff became a significant challenge for tobacco control leadership. In Colorado, this challenge was addressed in part through the development of a technical assistance and training Web site designed for local tobacco control staff and coalition members. Researchers, technical Web site development specialists, state health agency, and state tobacco control coalition staff collaborated to develop, promote, and test the efficacy of this Web site. The work group embodied a range of skills including tobacco control, Web site technical development, marketing, training, and project management. Persistent marketing, updating of Web site content, and institutionalizing it as a principal source of information and training were key to use by community coalition members.

  11. Burns education: The emerging role of simulation for training healthcare professionals.

    PubMed

    Sadideen, Hazim; Goutos, Ioannis; Kneebone, Roger

    2017-02-01

    Burns education appears to be under-represented in UK undergraduate curricula. However current postgraduate courses in burns education provide formal training in resuscitation and management. Simulation has proven to be a powerful modality to advance surgical training in both technical and non-technical skills. We present a literature review that summarises the format of current burns education, and provides detailed insight into historic, current and novel advances in burns simulation for both technical and non-technical skills, that can be used to augment surgical training. Addressing the economic and practical limitations of current immersive surgical simulation is important, and this review proposes future directions for integration of innovative simulation strategies into training curricula. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd and ISBI. All rights reserved.

  12. Agencies Should Assess Vulnerabilities and Improve Guidance for Protecting Export-Controlled Information at Companies

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2006-12-01

    Supplement DOD Department of Defense DOL Department of Labor DTSA Defense Technology Security Administration EAR Export Administration Regulations...and outreach to companies on the export regulations. DOD: The Defense Technology Security Administration ( DTSA ) represents DOD on export control...and technologies, which DOD oversees. DTSA serves an advisory role in State’s and Commerce’s export license review processes and offers technical

  13. Physiological, movement and technical demands of centre-wicket Battlezone, traditional net-based training and one-day cricket matches: a comparative study of sub-elite cricket players.

    PubMed

    Vickery, Will; Dascombe, Ben; Duffield, Rob

    2014-01-01

    This study compared physiological, physical and technical demands of Battlezone, traditional cricket training and one-day matches. Data were initially collected from 11 amateur, male cricket players (age: 22.2 ± 3.3 year, height: 1.82 ± 0.06 m body mass: 80.4 ± 9.8 kg) during four Battlezone and four traditional cricket training sessions encompassing different playing positions. Heart rate, blood lactate concentration, rating of perceived exertion and movement patterns of players were measured. Retrospective video analysis was performed to code for technical outcomes. Similar data were collected from 42 amateur, male cricket players (23.5 ± 4.7 year, 1.81 ± 0.07 m, 81.4 ± 11.4 kg) during one-day matches. Significant differences were found between Battlezone, traditional cricket training and one-day matches within each playing position. Specifically, Battlezone invoked the greatest physiological and physical demands from batsmen in comparison to traditional cricket training and one-day matches. However, the greatest technical demand for batsmen was observed during traditional cricket training. In regards to the other playing positions, a greater physiological, physical and technical demand was observed during Battlezone and traditional training than during one-day matches. These results suggest that the use of Battlezone and traditional cricket training provides players with a suitable training stimulus for replicating the physiological, physical and technical demands of one-day cricket.

  14. Integrating Space Flight Resource Management Skills into Technical Lessons for International Space Station Flight Controller Training

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Baldwin, Evelyn

    2008-01-01

    The Johnson Space Center s (JSC) International Space Station (ISS) Space Flight Resource Management (SFRM) training program is designed to teach the team skills required to be an effective flight controller. It was adapted from the SFRM training given to Shuttle flight controllers to fit the needs of a "24 hours a day/365 days a year" flight controller. More recently, the length reduction of technical training flows for ISS flight controllers impacted the number of opportunities for fully integrated team scenario based training, where most SFRM training occurred. Thus, the ISS SFRM training program is evolving yet again, using a new approach of teaching and evaluating SFRM alongside of technical materials. Because there are very few models in other industries that have successfully tied team and technical skills together, challenges are arising. Despite this, the Mission Operations Directorate of NASA s JSC is committed to implementing this integrated training approach because of the anticipated benefits.

  15. The Role of Formal Education, Technical and Management Training on Information Systems (IS) Managers' Managerial Effectiveness as Perceived by Their Subordinates

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ligon, Jerry; Abdullah, ABM; Talukder, Majharul

    2007-01-01

    This study examined the relationship between Information Systems (IS) managers' formal education, level of technical and managerial training and their managerial effectiveness as perceived by their subordinates. The study finds that there is a strong positive relationship between the amount of technical training IS managers have received and their…

  16. How Should "Quality" Technical Education and Training Be Defined? A Statement from the National Council for Occupational Education.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Everett, James; Gershwin, Mary; Hayes, Homer; Jacobs, James; Mundhenk, Robert

    Although objectively measurable achievement of outcomes is an important guide to the quality of education, the process of defining and assuring the quality of technical education and training must include consideration for the context in which technical education and training occurs. It is also critical to remember that education has two sets of…

  17. MITT writer and MITT writer advanced development: Developing authoring and training systems for complex technical domains

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Wiederholt, Bradley J.; Browning, Elica J.; Norton, Jeffrey E.; Johnson, William B.

    1991-01-01

    MITT Writer is a software system for developing computer based training for complex technical domains. A training system produced by MITT Writer allows a student to learn and practice troubleshooting and diagnostic skills. The MITT (Microcomputer Intelligence for Technical Training) architecture is a reasonable approach to simulation based diagnostic training. MITT delivers training on available computing equipment, delivers challenging training and simulation scenarios, and has economical development and maintenance costs. A 15 month effort was undertaken in which the MITT Writer system was developed. A workshop was also conducted to train instructors in how to use MITT Writer. Earlier versions were used to develop an Intelligent Tutoring System for troubleshooting the Minuteman Missile Message Processing System.

  18. Hearing gain with a BAHA test-band in patients with single-sided deafness.

    PubMed

    Kim, Do-Youn; Kim, Tae Su; Shim, Byoung Soo; Jin, In Suk; Ahn, Joong Ho; Chung, Jong Woo; Yoon, Tae Hyun; Park, Hong Ju

    2014-01-01

    It is assumed that preoperative use of a bone-anchored hearing aid (BAHA) test-band will give a patient lower gain compared to real post-operative gain because of the reduction of energy through the scalp when using a test-band. Hearing gains using a BAHA test-band were analyzed in patients with unilateral hearing loss. Nineteen patients with unilateral sensorineural hearing loss were enrolled. A test-band, which was connected to BAHA Intenso with full-on gain, was put on the mastoid. Conventional air-conduction (AC) pure-tone averages (PTAs) and sound-field PTAs and speech reception thresholds (SRTs) were obtained in conditions A (the better ear naked), B (the better ear plugged), and C (the better ear plugged with a test-band on the poorer mastoid). Air-conduction PTAs of the poorer and better ears were 91 ± 19 and 18 ± 8 dB HL. Sound-field PTAs in condition B were higher than those in condition A (54 vs. 26 dB HL), which means that earplugs can block the sound grossly up to 54 dB HL through the better ears. The aided PTAs (24 ± 6 dB HL) in condition C were similar to those of the better ears in condition A (26±9 dB HL), though condition C showed higher thresholds at 500 Hz and lower thresholds at 1 and 2kHz when compared to condition A. The hearing thresholds using a test-band were similar to the published results of BAHA users with the volume to most comfortable level (MCL). Our findings showed that a BAHA test-band on the poorer ear could transmit sound to the cochlea as much as the better ears can hear. The increased functional gain at 1 and 2kHz reflects the technical characteristics of BAHA processor. The reduction of energy through the scalp when using a test-band seems to be offset by the difference of output by setting the volume to full-on gain and using a high-powered speech processor. Preoperative hearing gains using a test-band with full-on gain seems to be similar to the post-operative gains of BAHA users with the volume to MCL. © 2013.

  19. A 3D-printed functioning anatomical human middle ear model.

    PubMed

    Kuru, Ismail; Maier, Hannes; Müller, Mathias; Lenarz, Thomas; Lueth, Tim C

    2016-10-01

    The middle ear is a sophisticated and complex structure with a variety of functions, yet a delicate organ prone to injuries due to various reasons. Both, understanding and reconstructing its functions has always been an important topic for researchers from medical and technical background. Currently, human temporal bones are generally used as model for tests, experiments and validation of the numerical results. However, fresh human preparations are not always easily accessible and their mechanical properties vary with time and between individuals. Therefore we have built an anatomically based and functional middle ear model to serve as a reproducible test environment. Our middle ear model was manufactured with the aid of 3D-printing technology. We have segmented the essential functional elements from micro computed tomography data (μCT) of a single temporal bone. The ossicles were 3D-printed by selective laser melting (SLM) and the soft tissues were casted with silicone rubber into 3D-printed molds. The ear canal, the tympanic cavity and the inner ear were artificially designed, but their design ensured the anatomically correct position of the tympanic membrane, ossicular ligaments and the oval window. For the determination of their auditory properties we have conducted two kinds of tests: measurement of the stapes footplate response to sound and tympanometry of the model. Our experiments regarding the sound transmission showed that the model has a similar behavior to a human middle ear. The transfer function has a resonance frequency at around 1 kHz, the stapes' response is almost constant for frequencies below the resonance and a roll-off is observed above the resonance. The tympanometry results show that the compliance of the middle ear model is similar to the compliance of a healthy human middle ear. We also present that we were able to manipulate the transmission behavior, so that healthy or pathological scenarios can be created. For this purpose we have built models with different mechanical properties by varying the hardness of the silicone rubber used for different structures, such as tympanic membrane, oval window and ossicle attachments in the range of Shore 10-40 A. This allowed us to set the transmission amplitudes in the plateau region higher, lower or within the tolerances of normal middle ears (Rosowski et al., 2007). Our results showed that it is possible to build an artificial model of the human middle ear by using 3D-printing technology in combination with silicone rubber molding. We were able to reproduce the anatomical shape of the middle ear's essential elements with high accuracy and also assemble them into a functioning middle ear model. The acoustic behavior of the model can be reproduced and manipulated by the choice of material. If the issues such as resonance of the casing and steep roll-off slope in higher frequencies can be solved, this model creates a reproducible environment for experiments and can be useful for the evaluation of prosthetic devices. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. Integration of role-playing into technical skills training: a randomized controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Nikendei, C; Kraus, B; Schrauth, M; Weyrich, P; Zipfel, S; Herzog, W; Jünger, J

    2007-11-01

    Recently, efforts have been undertaken to enhance the face validity of technical skills training by introducing role-plays and standardised patients. Since little is known about the effects of role-playing with respect to the realism of a training situation and students' objective performance, we performed a randomized controlled trial. 36 medical students participated in videotaped small group skills-lab sessions on the topics of Doppler sonography and gastric tube insertion. One half of the students participated in role-plays and the other half practised without role-playing. Realism of the training situation was analysed by means of post-intervention self-selected student survey evaluations. Technical performance and patient-physician communication were assessed by independent ratings of the videotaped sessions. The physician's role was regarded to be significantly more realistic when performing role-plays. Assessment of videotaped sessions showed that practising technical skills by performing role-plays resulted in significantly better patient-physician communication whereas students' technical performance did not differ between groups. Introducing role-plays enhances the realism of technical skills training and leads to better patient-physician communication. Students do not seem to be overstrained by practising clinical technical skills using role-plays. We conclude that role-playing is a valuable method in practising technical skills.

  1. Microcomputer Intelligence for Technical Training (MITT): The evolution of an intelligent tutoring system

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Norton, Jeffrey E.; Wiederholt, Bradley J.; Johnson, William B.

    1990-01-01

    Microcomputer Intelligence for Technical Training (MITT) uses Intelligent Tutoring System (OTS) technology to deliver diagnostic training in a variety of complex technical domains. Over the past six years, MITT technology has been used to develop training systems for nuclear power plant diesel generator diagnosis, Space Shuttle fuel cell diagnosis, and message processing diagnosis for the Minuteman missile. Presented here is an overview of the MITT system, describing the evolution of the MITT software and the benefits of using the MITT system.

  2. Patient satisfaction and aesthetic outcomes after ear reconstruction with a Branemark-type, bone-anchored, ear prosthesis: a 16 year review.

    PubMed

    Younis, Ibby; Gault, David; Sabbagh, Walid; Kang, Norbert V

    2010-10-01

    Reconstruction of the human ear with a bone-anchored prosthesis is a widely accepted alternative when autologous reconstruction is technically impossible or declined by the individual. However, there are relatively few data in the literature documenting patient satisfaction with this form of reconstruction. This study examines different aspects of patient satisfaction using an eighteen-point postal questionnaire to measure patient outcomes against a Likert rating scale. The questionnaire was sent to 33 patients who completed prosthetic ear reconstruction over a 16 year period at a specialist plastic surgery unit in the United Kingdom. Medical case notes for these cases were also reviewed. Twenty completed questionnaires were returned. The response rate was 61%. The majority of patients were satisfied with the aesthetics, ease of handling and comfort of the bone-anchored implant and prosthesis. However, the majority of patients was only moderately satisfied or was dissatisfied with this method of reconstruction. Specifically, 15 of the respondents reported skin problems around the abutments of the bone-anchored implant with 10 patients reporting ongoing skin complications. Granulation tissue was the most common skin problem (12 cases) followed by local infection (10 cases). Interestingly, despite the chronic skin problems, most patients indicated that they would undergo the same procedure again or would recommend it to others. Our survey shows that patients fitted with a Branemark-type bone-anchored implant for ear reconstruction are pleased with the aesthetic appearance but experience multiple, chronic, skin complications and other implant related problems. These affect their satisfaction with this method of reconstruction. Our findings may have significant implications for patients and surgeons considering this form of reconstruction and for the institutions making decisions about funding this treatment. Copyright 2009. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  3. [Preoperative CT Scan in middle ear cholesteatoma].

    PubMed

    Sethom, Anissa; Akkari, Khemaies; Dridi, Inès; Tmimi, S; Mardassi, Ali; Benzarti, Sonia; Miled, Imed; Chebbi, Mohamed Kamel

    2011-03-01

    To compare preoperative CT scan finding and per-operative lesions in patients operated for middle ear cholesteatoma, A retrospective study including 60 patients with cholesteatoma otitis diagnosed and treated within a period of 5 years, from 2001 to 2005, at ENT department of Military Hospital of Tunis. All patients had computed tomography of the middle and inner ear. High resolution CT scan imaging was performed using millimetric incidences (3 to 5 millimetres). All patients had surgical removal of their cholesteatoma using down wall technic. We evaluated sensitivity, specificity and predictive value of CT-scan comparing otitic damages and CT finding, in order to examine the real contribution of computed tomography in cholesteatoma otitis. CT scan analysis of middle ear bone structures shows satisfaction (with 83% of sensibility). The rate of sensibility decrease (63%) for the tympanic raff. Predictive value of CT scan for the diagnosis of cholesteatoma was low. However, we have noticed an excellent sensibility in the analysis of ossicular damages (90%). Comparative frontal incidence seems to be less sensible for the detection of facial nerve lesions (42%). But when evident on CT scan findings, lesions of facial nerve were usually observed preoperatively (spécificity 78%). Predictive value of computed tomography for the diagnosis of perilymphatic fistulae (FL) was low. In fact, CT scan imaging have showed FL only for four patients among eight. Best results can be obtained if using inframillimetric incidences with performed high resolution computed tomography. Preoperative computed tomography is necessary for the diagnosis and the evaluation of chronic middle ear cholesteatoma in order to show extending lesion and to detect complications. This CT analysis and surgical correlation have showed that sensibility, specificity and predictive value of CT-scan depend on the anatomic structure implicated in cholesteatoma damages.

  4. Surgical simulation: Current practices and future perspectives for technical skills training.

    PubMed

    Bjerrum, Flemming; Thomsen, Ann Sofia Skou; Nayahangan, Leizl Joy; Konge, Lars

    2018-06-17

    Simulation-based training (SBT) has become a standard component of modern surgical education, yet successful implementation of evidence-based training programs remains challenging. In this narrative review, we use Kern's framework for curriculum development to describe where we are now and what lies ahead for SBT within surgery with a focus on technical skills in operative procedures. Despite principles for optimal SBT (proficiency-based, distributed, and deliberate practice) having been identified, massed training with fixed time intervals or a fixed number of repetitions is still being extensively used, and simulators are generally underutilized. SBT should be part of surgical training curricula, including theoretical, technical, and non-technical skills, and be based on relevant needs assessments. Furthermore, training should follow evidence-based theoretical principles for optimal training, and the effect of training needs to be evaluated using relevant outcomes. There is a larger, still unrealized potential of surgical SBT, which may be realized in the near future as simulator technologies evolve, more evidence-based training programs are implemented, and cost-effectiveness and impact on patient safety is clearly demonstrated.

  5. Laterality for music perception in musicians, mathematicians, and dancers: jumping to conclusions.

    PubMed

    Gordon, H W

    1993-06-01

    Group differences for ear asymmetries for a melodies task were reported for talented music, mathematics, and dance students. Evidence is presented that it is premature to conclude that these group differences were the result of specialized training in their areas of expertise.

  6. The Effects of Simulated Hearing Loss on Simultaneous Speech Recognition and Walking Navigation Tasks

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2013-02-01

    and ear impedance testing, respectively. Normality of vestibular function was assessed by asking the participants about any cases of chronic vertigo ...none) and observing participant behavior during the ODT walking training session. Two potential participants incurred light vertigo during ODT

  7. The Shaping of Managers' Security Objectives through Information Security Awareness Training

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Harris, Mark A.

    2010-01-01

    Information security research states that corporate security policy and information security training should be socio-technical in nature and that corporations should consider training as a primary method of protecting their information systems. However, information security policies and training are predominately technical in nature. In addition,…

  8. Application criteria for infrared ear thermometers in pediatric surgery.

    PubMed

    Saxena, A K; Topp S, S; Heinecke, A; Willital, G H

    2001-01-01

    Fever is an important and sensitive indicator of infectious diseases in children. For the past decades, measurement of body temperature in routine medical practice was limited to oral, rectal and axillary sites. In infants and children, however, temperature measurements are further limited to the rectal and axillary sites due to technical and clinical considerations. In the field of pediatric surgery, pathological and surgical conditions of the ano-rectal area often further restrict the application of conventional rectal temperature measurements. The application of tympanic temperature measurements in such pediatric surgical pathologies provides a reliable alternative to conventional rectal temperature measurements. The pediatric surgical clinico-pathological states where ear temperature measurements are the only mode of accurate temperature determination have been identified. Tympanic thermometry is well tolerated by children and predicts temperature with relative accuracy within a few seconds.

  9. Middle-ear microsurgery simulation to improve new robotic procedures.

    PubMed

    Kazmitcheff, Guillaume; Nguyen, Yann; Miroir, Mathieu; Péan, Fabien; Ferrary, Evelyne; Cotin, Stéphane; Sterkers, Olivier; Duriez, Christian

    2014-01-01

    Otological microsurgery is delicate and requires high dexterity in bad ergonomic conditions. To assist surgeons in these indications, a teleoperated system, called RobOtol, is developed. This robot enhances gesture accuracy and handiness and allows exploration of new procedures for middle ear surgery. To plan new procedures that exploit the capacities given by the robot, a surgical simulator is developed. The simulation reproduces with high fidelity the behavior of the anatomical structures and can also be used as a training tool for an easier control of the robot for surgeons. In the paper, we introduce the middle ear surgical simulation and then we perform virtually two challenging procedures with the robot. We show how interactive simulation can assist in analyzing the benefits of robotics in the case of complex manipulations or ergonomics studies and allow the development of innovative surgical procedures. New robot-based microsurgical procedures are investigated. The improvement offered by RobOtol is also evaluated and discussed.

  10. Middle-Ear Microsurgery Simulation to Improve New Robotic Procedures

    PubMed Central

    Kazmitcheff, Guillaume; Nguyen, Yann; Miroir, Mathieu; Péan, Fabien; Ferrary, Evelyne; Cotin, Stéphane; Sterkers, Olivier; Duriez, Christian

    2014-01-01

    Otological microsurgery is delicate and requires high dexterity in bad ergonomic conditions. To assist surgeons in these indications, a teleoperated system, called RobOtol, is developed. This robot enhances gesture accuracy and handiness and allows exploration of new procedures for middle ear surgery. To plan new procedures that exploit the capacities given by the robot, a surgical simulator is developed. The simulation reproduces with high fidelity the behavior of the anatomical structures and can also be used as a training tool for an easier control of the robot for surgeons. In the paper, we introduce the middle ear surgical simulation and then we perform virtually two challenging procedures with the robot. We show how interactive simulation can assist in analyzing the benefits of robotics in the case of complex manipulations or ergonomics studies and allow the development of innovative surgical procedures. New robot-based microsurgical procedures are investigated. The improvement offered by RobOtol is also evaluated and discussed. PMID:25157373

  11. Improving the 'how' and 'what' decisions of elite table tennis players.

    PubMed

    Raab, Markus; Masters, Rich S W; Maxwell, Jonathan P

    2005-06-01

    Training methods in sport usually focus on improving either technical or tactical aspects of performance, ignoring the fact that successful performance requires the athlete to simultaneously decide what movement to perform and how it should be executed. Young elite table tennis players were trained, in a first phase, to improve their forehand and backhand movements and, in a second phase, to make a tactical switch between forehand and backhand movements. Half of the players took part in behavioral training focusing on how to perform the required movements, whereas half received additional video feedback about their technical and tactical performance (decision training). The results indicate that improvements of how decisions (techniques) and what decisions (tactics) can occur as a consequence of combining technical and tactical training. These results were stable in delayed Post-test analyses of competitive matches. It was concluded that a combination of both technical and tactical training is beneficial to elite table tennis performers, particularly during early seasonal training programs.

  12. High fidelity simulation based team training in urology: a preliminary interdisciplinary study of technical and nontechnical skills in laparoscopic complications management.

    PubMed

    Lee, Jason Y; Mucksavage, Phillip; Canales, Cecilia; McDougall, Elspeth M; Lin, Sharon

    2012-04-01

    Simulation based team training provides an opportunity to develop interdisciplinary communication skills and address potential medical errors in a high fidelity, low stakes environment. We evaluated the implementation of a novel simulation based team training scenario and assessed the technical and nontechnical performance of urology and anesthesiology residents. Urology residents were randomly paired with anesthesiology residents to participate in a simulation based team training scenario involving the management of 2 scripted critical events during laparoscopic radical nephrectomy, including the vasovagal response to pneumoperitoneum and renal vein injury during hilar dissection. A novel kidney surgical model and a high fidelity mannequin simulator were used for the simulation. A debriefing session followed each simulation based team training scenario. Assessments of technical and nontechnical performance were made using task specific checklists and global rating scales. A total of 16 residents participated, of whom 94% rated the simulation based team training scenario as useful for communication skill training. Also, 88% of urology residents believed that the kidney surgical model was useful for technical skill training. Urology resident training level correlated with technical performance (p=0.004) and blood loss during renal vein injury management (p=0.022) but not with nontechnical performance. Anesthesia resident training level correlated with nontechnical performance (p=0.036). Urology residents consistently rated themselves higher on nontechnical performance than did faculty (p=0.033). Anesthesia residents did not differ in the self-assessment of nontechnical performance compared to faculty assessments. Residents rated the simulation based team training scenario as useful for interdisciplinary communication skill training. Urology resident training level correlated with technical performance but not with nontechnical performance. Urology residents consistently overestimated their nontechnical performance. Copyright © 2012 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Hyperspectral imaging system for whole corn ear surface inspection

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yao, Haibo; Kincaid, Russell; Hruska, Zuzana; Brown, Robert L.; Bhatnagar, Deepak; Cleveland, Thomas E.

    2013-05-01

    Aflatoxin is a mycotoxin produced mainly by Aspergillus flavus (A.flavus) and Aspergillus parasitiucus fungi that grow naturally in corn. Very serious health problems such as liver damage and lung cancer can result from exposure to high toxin levels in grain. Consequently, many countries have established strict guidelines for permissible levels in consumables. Conventional chemical-based analytical methods used to screen for aflatoxin such as thin-layer chromatography (TLC) and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) are time consuming, expensive, and require the destruction of samples as well as proper training for data interpretation. Thus, it has been a continuing effort within the research community to find a way to rapidly and non-destructively detect and possibly quantify aflatoxin contamination in corn. One of the more recent developments in this area is the use of spectral technology. Specifically, fluorescence hyperspectral imaging offers a potential rapid, and non-invasive method for contamination detection in corn infected with toxigenic A.flavus spores. The current hyperspectral image system is designed for scanning flat surfaces, which is suitable for imaging single or a group of corn kernels. In the case of a whole corn cob, it is preferred to be able to scan the circumference of the corn ear, appropriate for whole ear inspection. This paper discusses the development of a hyperspectral imaging system for whole corn ear imaging. The new instrument is based on a hyperspectral line scanner using a rotational stage to turn the corn ear.

  14. Single-channel in-ear-EEG detects the focus of auditory attention to concurrent tone streams and mixed speech

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fiedler, Lorenz; Wöstmann, Malte; Graversen, Carina; Brandmeyer, Alex; Lunner, Thomas; Obleser, Jonas

    2017-06-01

    Objective. Conventional, multi-channel scalp electroencephalography (EEG) allows the identification of the attended speaker in concurrent-listening (‘cocktail party’) scenarios. This implies that EEG might provide valuable information to complement hearing aids with some form of EEG and to install a level of neuro-feedback. Approach. To investigate whether a listener’s attentional focus can be detected from single-channel hearing-aid-compatible EEG configurations, we recorded EEG from three electrodes inside the ear canal (‘in-Ear-EEG’) and additionally from 64 electrodes on the scalp. In two different, concurrent listening tasks, participants (n  =  7) were fitted with individualized in-Ear-EEG pieces and were either asked to attend to one of two dichotically-presented, concurrent tone streams or to one of two diotically-presented, concurrent audiobooks. A forward encoding model was trained to predict the EEG response at single EEG channels. Main results. Each individual participants’ attentional focus could be detected from single-channel EEG response recorded from short-distance configurations consisting only of a single in-Ear-EEG electrode and an adjacent scalp-EEG electrode. The differences in neural responses to attended and ignored stimuli were consistent in morphology (i.e. polarity and latency of components) across subjects. Significance. In sum, our findings show that the EEG response from a single-channel, hearing-aid-compatible configuration provides valuable information to identify a listener’s focus of attention.

  15. Texture analysis with statistical methods for wheat ear extraction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bakhouche, M.; Cointault, F.; Gouton, P.

    2007-01-01

    In agronomic domain, the simplification of crop counting, necessary for yield prediction and agronomic studies, is an important project for technical institutes such as Arvalis. Although the main objective of our global project is to conceive a mobile robot for natural image acquisition directly in a field, Arvalis has proposed us first to detect by image processing the number of wheat ears in images before to count them, which will allow to obtain the first component of the yield. In this paper we compare different texture image segmentation techniques based on feature extraction by first and higher order statistical methods which have been applied on our images. The extracted features are used for unsupervised pixel classification to obtain the different classes in the image. So, the K-means algorithm is implemented before the choice of a threshold to highlight the ears. Three methods have been tested in this feasibility study with very average error of 6%. Although the evaluation of the quality of the detection is visually done, automatic evaluation algorithms are currently implementing. Moreover, other statistical methods of higher order will be implemented in the future jointly with methods based on spatio-frequential transforms and specific filtering.

  16. Non-Invasive Multiphoton Imaging of Islets Transplanted Into the Pinna of the NOD Mouse Ear Reveals the Immediate Effect of Anti-CD3 Treatment in Autoimmune Diabetes.

    PubMed

    Benson, Robert A; Garcon, Fabien; Recino, Asha; Ferdinand, John R; Clatworthy, Menna R; Waldmann, Herman; Brewer, James M; Okkenhaug, Klaus; Cooke, Anne; Garside, Paul; Wållberg, Maja

    2018-01-01

    We present a novel and readily accessible method facilitating cellular time-resolved imaging of transplanted pancreatic islets. Grafting of islets to the mouse ear pinna allows non-invasive, in vivo longitudinal imaging of events in the islets and enables improved acquisition of experimental data and use of fewer experimental animals than is possible using invasive techniques, as the same mouse can be assessed for the presence of islet infiltrating cells before and after immune intervention. We have applied this method to investigating therapeutic protection of beta cells through the well-established use of anti-CD3 injection, and have acquired unprecedented data on the nature and rapidity of the effect on the islet infiltrating T cells. We demonstrate that infusion of anti-CD3 antibody leads to immediate effects on islet infiltrating T cells in islet grafts in the pinna of the ear, and causes them to increase their speed and displacement within 20 min of infusion. This technique overcomes several technical challenges associated with intravital imaging of pancreatic immune responses and facilitates routine study of beta islet cell development, differentiation, and function in health and disease.

  17. Balance Function Disorders

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1991-01-01

    Researchers at the Balance Function Laboratory and Clinic at the Minneapolis (MN) Neuroscience Institute on the Abbot Northwestern Hospital Campus are using a rotational chair (technically a "sinusoidal harmonic acceleration system") originally developed by NASA to investigate vestibular (inner ear) function in weightlessness to diagnose and treat patients with balance function disorders. Manufactured by ICS Medical Corporation, Schaumberg, IL, the chair system turns a patient and monitors his or her responses to rotational stimulation.

  18. Technical Training on High-Order Spectral Analysis and Thermal Anemometry Applications

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Maslov, A. A.; Shiplyuk, A. N.; Sidirenko, A. A.; Bountin, D. A.

    2003-01-01

    The topics of thermal anemometry and high-order spectral analyses were the subject of the technical training. Specifically, the objective of the technical training was to study: (i) the recently introduced constant voltage anemometer (CVA) for high-speed boundary layer; and (ii) newly developed high-order spectral analysis techniques (HOSA). Both CVA and HOSA are relevant tools for studies of boundary layer transition and stability.

  19. National Strategies for Developing Human Resources through Technical and Vocational Education and Training. The 2001 KRIVET International Conference on Technical and Vocational Education and Training [Proceedings] (Seoul, South Korea, November 21-23, 2001).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Korea Research Inst. for Vocational Education and Training, Seoul.

    This document contains 19 papers and case studies, in English and Korean, from a conference on national strategies for developing human resources through technical and vocational education and training. The following are representative: "The Need to Innovate and Optimize Resources [Keynote]" (Wataru Iwamoto); "School to Work…

  20. United States Air Force Training Line Simulator. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Nauta, Franz; Pierce, Michael B.

    This report describes the technical aspects and potential applications of a computer-based model simulating the flow of airmen through basic training and entry-level technical training. The objective of the simulation is to assess the impacts of alternative recruit classification and training policies under a wide variety of assumptions regarding…

  1. Tips on Developing Technical Training Partnerships.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Just, David A.; And Others

    This paper begins by presenting tips on developing technical training partnerships from the perspective of the local director of the Ohio Industrial Training Program. This section indicates that every linkage needs a catalyst and that the role of the Ohio Industrial Training Program is to be such a catalyst. The issues and concerns of which the…

  2. 78 FR 31431 - Export Administration Regulations (EAR): Control of Spacecraft Systems and Related Items the...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-05-24

    .... Paragraph 9A515.b would control ground control systems and training simulators ``specially designed'' for.... Paragraph .d would control certain radiation hardened microelectronic circuits that are ``specially designed... .a would control test, inspection, and production ``equipment'' ``specially designed'' for the...

  3. 77 FR 35310 - Revisions to the Export Administration Regulations (EAR): Control of Military Training Equipment...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-06-13

    ... Classification Numbers (ECCNs) 0A614, 0B614, 0D614, and 0E614. This rule is one in a planned series of proposed... that is, as a result of differences in form and fit, ``specially designed'' for military applications...

  4. Improvisation: An Essential Element of Musical Proficiency.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Dobbins, Bill

    1980-01-01

    The author discusses the importance of improvisation, suggesting that improvisation be introduced in the earliest stages of education and be taught through an approach that integrates ear training, sight-reading, instrumental and vocal techniques and theory into a unified and complete understanding of music as a language. (Author/KC)

  5. The Validity of the Musical Aptitude Profile for Predicting Grades in Freshman Music Theory.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Harrison, Carole S.

    1987-01-01

    This study investigated the criterion-related validity of the Musical Aptitude Profile in relation to achievement in freshman music theory as determined by semester grades in the courses and by grades in three course components (paperwork, sight-singing and ear-training). (Author/BS)

  6. Effects of Amplification, Speechreading, and Classroom Environments on Reception of Speech

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Blair, James C.

    1977-01-01

    Compared with 18 hard-of-hearing students (7 to 14-years-old) were two sources of amplification (binaural ear-level hearing aids and R F auditory training units with environmental microphones on) in "ideal" and "typical" classroom noise levels, with and without visual speechreading cues provided. (Author/IM)

  7. North Indian Classical Vocal Music for the Classroom

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Arya, Divya D.

    2015-01-01

    This article offers information that will allow music educators to incorporate North Indian classical vocal music into a multicultural music education curriculum. Obstacles to teaching North Indian classical vocal music are acknowledged, including lack of familiarity with the cultural/structural elements and challenges in teaching ear training and…

  8. It's a Zoo out There!

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Gillan, Amy Larrison; Hebert, Terri

    2014-01-01

    The People Learning Urban Science (PLUS) program creates partnerships and coordinates efforts involving a local zoo, university, and school district, seeking to instill within students a sense of the natural environment. Even though the majority of students live among concrete and metal structures, their eyes and ears can be trained to make…

  9. NASA/DOD Aerospace Knowledge Diffusion Research Project. Paper 46: Technical communications in aerospace: A comparison across four countries

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Kennedy, John M.; Pinelli, Thomas E.; Hecht, Laura Frye; Barclay, Rebecca O.

    1995-01-01

    In this paper we describe the preliminary analysis of four groups of aerospace engineering and science students -- student members of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) and students from universities in Japan, Russia, and Great Britain. We compare: (1) the demographic characteristics of the students; (2) factors that affected their career decision; (3) their career goals and aspirations; (4) their training in technical communication; and (5) their training in techniques for finding and using aerospace scientific and technical information (STI). Many employers in the US aerospace industry think there is a need for increased training of engineering students in technical communication. Engineers in the US and other countries believe that technical communication skills are critical for engineers' professional success. All students in our study agree about the importance of technical communication training for professional success, yet relatively few are happy with the instruction they receive. Overall, we conclude that additional instruction in technical communication and accessing STI would make it easier for students to achieve their career goals.

  10. Cost-Benefit Analysis of a Bridge to Integrate the Management of Technical Information for Producing Technical Manuals and Training Courses

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2010-11-01

    Philadelphia, and all Computer-Based Training (CBT) courses delivered by Navy eLearning (NeL), a part of the Naval Education and Training Command (NETC...concentrated exclu- sively on the benefit side—whether the Bridge would save money in producing future technical manuals and training courses. It...of $78.1 million in 10-year costs: a savings of $86.8 million in producing future HM&E manuals and NeL-delivered courses less $8.7 million in

  11. 75 FR 61121 - Trade Adjustment Assistance for Farmers

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-10-04

    ... program, may apply for technical training and cash benefits by completing and submitting a written... technical assistance training under the program in order to be eligible for cash benefits. Producers.... After submitting a completed application, producers may receive technical assistance at no cost and cash...

  12. 75 FR 62760 - Trade Adjustment Assistance for Farmers

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-10-13

    ... assistance in FY 2011. Eligible individual blueberry producers in Maine may apply for technical training and..., producers may receive technical assistance at no cost and cash benefits, if the applicable program eligibility requirements are satisfied. Applicants must complete the technical assistance training under the...

  13. [History of the ear speculum. Images from the history of otorhinolaryngology, highlighted by instruments from the collection of the German Medical History Museum in Ingolstadt].

    PubMed

    Feldmann, H

    1996-05-01

    BACKGROUND. Inspection of or interventions in the external ear canal and the nostrils pose similar technical problems. This is the reason why early instruments devised for otoscopy and rhinoscopy were based on an identical principle. They were shaped like a pair of tongs, comparable to nasal specula of today. A similar type of instrument had been developed earlier by barber surgeons for inspecting narrow wound cavities. TONG-SHAPED SPECULA. The first description and illustration of an aural and nasal speculum was provided by Guy de Chauliac in Montpellier, France in 1363. Sophisticated models were presented by Fabricius Hildanus in Germany in 1646 and J.J. Perret in Paris in 1772, who offered them in his illustrated catalogue of surgical instruments at fixed prices. W. Kramer (1836) in Berlin improved this tong-shaped instrument and devised the ear speculum named after him that was generally favored during the first half of the 19th century. Further variations of this type were presented by Lincke and Schmalz (1846) in Germany. FUNNEL-SHAPED SPECULA. Ignaz Gruber in Vienna in 1838 devised the first tunnel-shaped ear specula made of metal. They had a simple conical shape, were not divided into separate jaws, and could not be spread. Gruber himself did not publish his invention, but he demonstrated his ear specula to W. R. Wilde from Dublin, who had paid a visit to his office in Vienna. Wilde reported on this in 1844, and subsequently systematically refined Gruber's specula. A. v. Tröltsch from Würzburg (Germany) had seen these instruments at Wilde's office and it was Wilde himself and v. Tröltsch who helped this type of ear speculum to gain acceptance on an international scale. A different type of bottle-shaped ear speculum was first used by Schmalz (1846) and Erhard (1859) in Germany, but it was only developed into a commercially available instrument by Josef Gruber in Vienna in 1870. The ear specula most in use today were first presented by A. Hartmann in Berlin in 1881. SUPPLEMENTARY INVENTIONS. An important supplementary invention was the pneumatic ear speculum by E. Siegle in Stuttgart (Germany) in 1864. It permitted not only inspecting the tympanic membrane but also examining its compliance and response to variations in air pressure in the ear canal. The importance of this instrument was recognized at once and has remained undisputed to this day. J. Bruton, an English military surgeon, presented his otoscope in 1862. It was the first device to incorporate interchangeable ear specula, illumination by a perforated mirror, and a magnifying lens into one handy instrument. It is the precursor of the modern diagnostic sets comprised of a battery-handle, various specula, and accessories for otoscopy, rhinoscopy, and ophthalmoscopy which started to come into use in the late twenties of this century. This historical development of the ear specula is described and illustrated in detail.

  14. Research on artistic gymnastics training guidance model

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Luo, Lin; Sun, Xianzhong

    2017-04-01

    Rhythmic gymnastics training guidance model, taking into consideration the features of artistic gymnastics training, is put forward to help gymnasts identify their deficiencies and unskilled technical movements and improve their training effects. The model is built on the foundation of both physical quality indicator model and artistic gymnastics training indicator model. Physical quality indicator model composed of bodily factor, flexibility-strength factor and speed-dexterity factor delivers an objective evaluation with reference to basic sport testing data. Training indicator model, based on physical fitness indicator, helps analyze the technical movements, through which the impact from each bodily factor on technical movements is revealed. AG training guidance model, in further combination with actual training data and in comparison with the data shown in the training indicator model, helps identify the problems in trainings, and thus improve the training effect. These three models when in combined use and in comparison with historical model data can check and verify the improvement in training effect over a certain period of time.

  15. Estimation of energy and nutritional intake of young men practicing aerobic sports.

    PubMed

    Wierniuk, Alicja; Włodarek, Dariusz

    2013-01-01

    Keeping to a balanced diet plays a key role in maximizing the body's efficiency so that sports training becomes more effective. Previous studies have shown that an athletes' diet is often not properly balanced, and can thus negatively affect sporting performance. To assess the energy and nutrient intake in young men practicing aerobic sport and compare them with those recommended. Subjects were 25 male athletes, aged 19-25 years, practicing aerobic sports who were students at two Warsaw Universities; The Military University of Technology and University of Physical Education. The average body mass was 80.6 +/- 9.6 kg and average height was 187.0 +/- 7.6 cm, (BMI thus being 23.01 +/- 1.70 kg/m2). Dietary assessment was based on three-day dietary recalls consisting of two weekdays and one day of the weekend. The energy and macro/ micro-nutrient intake were evaluated using the Polish Software 'Energia' package and compared to recommendations and standards. Supplements were absent from the athletes' diets. The energy value of diets were too low in most instances; average %-age deficiency was 30.22 +/- 13.76%. Total protein intake, (mean 1.41 +/- 0.36 g per kg body weight) was inadequate in 40% of cases, whilst all showed appropriate intakes of animal protein. Most subjects' carbohydrate intake (84%) was deficient; median 3.28 g/kg body weight. Fibre intake, (median 17.17 g) was also insufficient in 76% cases. Total fat intake, (33.9% +/- 5.7 energy) was too high in 32% of cases. The %-age dietary energy obtained from saturated fatty acids was 12.18% +/- 2.53 and 5.72% +/- 1.43 from polyunsaturated fatty acids, where most subjects' diet (64%) was, as well, high in cholesterol. Furthermore, significant deficiencies were observed in the following: Vitamin A (44% of group below EAR), vitamin C (80% below EAR), vitamin D (92% below EAR), foliate (84% below EAR), calcium (52% below EAR) and magnesium (60% below EAR). Vitamin E intake was however higher than the AI level. Almost all subjects had adequate intakes of vitamins B1, B2, B6, B12, niacin and zinc. The energy value of diet and carbohydrate intake were inadequate to the athletes' requirements. Dietary deficiencies of folate, vitamins C and D, magnesium, calcium and potassium were also observed. There is therefore a need for sports nutrition counselling and education which would help athletes improve their eating habits and health, as well as for optimising their sports training performance.

  16. Enhancing Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Nigeria for Sustainable Development: Competency-Based Training (CBT) Approach

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Okoye, K. R. E.; Michael, Ofonmbuk Isaac

    2015-01-01

    This paper attempts to examine the concept of Competency-Based Training (CBT) as a veritable mode of delivery of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and at the same time highlights some of the strengths and weaknesses of implementing competency-base training. The characteristics, principles and benefits of CBT were also x-rayed.…

  17. Early experience in microtia reconstruction: the first 100 cases.

    PubMed

    Sabbagh, Walid

    2011-04-01

    Auricular reconstruction in Microtia is a challenging operation with a steep learning curve. In view its rarity attaining a high standard for new surgeons is extremely difficult. This study analyses the first 100 microtia cases looking at complications, technique, pattern of progress and aesthetic outcome. The author performed 100 autologous ear reconstructions for microtia over a period of 4 years utilizing the two stage technique popularised by Nagata and Firmin. In 11 cases a temroparietal fascial flap was utilised because of either a low hairline or scarring. Follow up ranged from 3 to 36 months. Data was collected prospectively. There were 7 cases of partial skin necrosis, 3 of which healed with conservative management. In early cases deficiencies were seen in the proportions of the reconstructed ear and the quality of definition. Better shape and definition were evident as more surgical experience was gained. This occurred as a result of increased appreciation of the ear proportions and improved framework carving. Although two stages were planned 21 cases required further procedures. The series demonstrates the early learning curve in microtia reconstruction and underlines the importance of appropriate training and case availability in achieving high quality results in autologous ear reconstruction. Copyright © 2010 British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  18. 78 FR 36597 - Comment Request for Information Collection for Job Corps Application Data; Extension With Minor...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-06-18

    ... largest residential, educational, and career technical training program for young Americans. Job Corps was...), and career technical training credentials, including industry-recognized certifications, state... DEPARTMENT OF LABOR Employment and Training Administration Comment Request for Information...

  19. 78 FR 49548 - Comment Request for Information Collection for Job Corps Application Data (Job Corps Enrollee...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-08-14

    ... the nation's largest residential educational and career technical training program for young Americans... Educational Development (GED), and career technical training credentials, including industry-recognized... DEPARTMENT OF LABOR Employment and Training Administration Comment Request for Information...

  20. 78 FR 48197 - Comment Request for Information Collection for Job Corps Placement and Assistance Record...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-08-07

    ... nation's largest residential, educational, and career technical training program for young Americans. Job... Equivalency credential, and career technical training, including industry-recognized credentials, state... DEPARTMENT OF LABOR Employment and Training Administration Comment Request for Information...

  1. Education and Training at SNL: Past and Present

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

    BOMBER, THOMAS M.; DREWIEN, CELESTE A.

    2002-11-01

    The purpose of this review was to provide insights and information to Sandia National Laboratories' (SNL) Education Council on the state of technical education and training at SNL in order to address the concern that a change in philosophy surrounding education had occurred. To accomplish this, the status of current and past technical training and education programs were compared, and significant changes at SNL were assessed for their impact on education and training. Major changes in education and training are in the advertisement of course offerings, the course delivery methods, and the funding mechanisms for student and instructor time asmore » well as course costs. The significant changes in SNL which influenced technical training and education are the considerable increase in mandatory or compliance training, a fundamental shift in SNL's management structure from an institutional structure to a more business-like, project-budgeted structure, and the change in SNL's mission at the end of the Cold War. These changes contributed to less time for technical training, reduction of training funds, elimination of some training, and a Service Center approach to paying for training. Most importantly, the overall combined effect has resulted in a shift from a strategic to a tactical training approach. The Corporate Training Department (CTD) has maneuvered to accommodate these changes and keep abreast of constantly changing needs.« less

  2. 75 FR 60494 - Notice of Proposed Guidance and Request for Comment on the Federal Transit Administration's...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-09-30

    ... on the Federal Transit Administration's research, technical assistance, and training programs and seeks comment thereon. Proposed FTA Circular 6100.1D, ``Research, Technical Assistance, and Training... Proposed Guidance and Request for Comment on the Federal Transit Administration's Research, Technical...

  3. Identifying Technical Content Training Needs of Georgia Agriculture Teachers

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Peake, Jason B.; Duncan, Dennis W.; Ricketts, John C.

    2007-01-01

    The continuing trend toward increasing diversity of curriculum offered within secondary agricultural education programs is driving a change in pre-service and in-service technical training for agriculture teachers. This study looks at agriculture teachers' perceived importance of, and competence in, traditional technical competencies such as…

  4. Detecting tympanostomy tubes from otoscopic images via offline and online training.

    PubMed

    Wang, Xin; Valdez, Tulio A; Bi, Jinbo

    2015-06-01

    Tympanostomy tube placement has been commonly used nowadays as a surgical treatment for otitis media. Following the placement, regular scheduled follow-ups for checking the status of the tympanostomy tubes are important during the treatment. The complexity of performing the follow up care mainly lies on identifying the presence and patency of the tympanostomy tube. An automated tube detection program will largely reduce the care costs and enhance the clinical efficiency of the ear nose and throat specialists and general practitioners. In this paper, we develop a computer vision system that is able to automatically detect a tympanostomy tube in an otoscopic image of the ear drum. The system comprises an offline classifier training process followed by a real-time refinement stage performed at the point of care. The offline training process constructs a three-layer cascaded classifier with each layer reflecting specific characteristics of the tube. The real-time refinement process enables the end users to interact and adjust the system over time based on their otoscopic images and patient care. The support vector machine (SVM) algorithm has been applied to train all of the classifiers. Empirical evaluation of the proposed system on both high quality hospital images and low quality internet images demonstrates the effectiveness of the system. The offline classifier trained using 215 images could achieve a 90% accuracy in terms of classifying otoscopic images with and without a tympanostomy tube, and then the real-time refinement process could improve the classification accuracy by 3-5% based on additional 20 images. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. A National Survey on Teaching and Assessing Technical Proficiency in Vascular Surgery in Canada.

    PubMed

    Drudi, Laura; Hossain, Sajjid; Mackenzie, Kent S; Corriveau, Marc-Michel; Abraham, Cherrie Z; Obrand, Daniel I; Vassiliou, Melina; Gill, Heather; Steinmetz, Oren K

    2016-05-01

    This survey aims to explore trainees' perspectives on how Canadian vascular surgery training programs are using simulation in teaching and assessing technical skills through a cross-sectional national survey. A 10-min online questionnaire was sent to Program Directors of Canada's Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons' of Canada approved training programs in vascular surgery. This survey was distributed among residents and fellows who were studying in the 2013-2014 academic year. Twenty-eight (58%) of the 48 Canadian vascular surgery trainees completed the survey. A total of 68% of the respondents were part of the 0 + 5 integrated vascular surgery training program. The use of simulation in the assessment of technical skills at the beginning of training was reported by only 3 (11%) respondents, whereas 43% reported that simulation was used in their programs in the assessment of technical skills at some time during their training. Training programs most often provided simulation as a method of teaching and learning endovascular abdominal aortic or thoracic aneurysm repair (64%). Furthermore, 96% of trainees reported the most common resource to learn and enhance technical skills was dialog with vascular surgery staff. Surveyed vascular surgery trainees in Canada report that simulation is rarely used as a tool to assess baseline technical skills at the beginning of training. Less than half of surveyed trainees in vascular surgery programs in Canada report that simulation is being used for skills acquisition. Currently, in Canadian training programs, simulation is most commonly used to teach endovascular skills. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  6. Technical knowledge and skills development in the informal sector in Kenya: The case of custom tailors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Apunda, Edwinah Amondi; de Klerk, Helena M.; Ogina, Teresa

    2017-06-01

    Custom tailors working in the informal sector in Nairobi, Kenya, mainly acquire technical skills through undertaking traditional apprenticeships (TAs). However, most of these tailors are semi-skilled, produce low-quality products and are often poorer than their formally trained counterparts. This qualitative case study explores the aspects of technical skills and knowledge which tailoring apprentices develop, and the factors which influence these outcomes. The findings show that apprentices do acquire basic technical skills for immediate application to ongoing tailoring activities (such as how to take body measurements, draft patterns, and cut, sew and finish constructed garments). However, apprentices do not acquire the technical knowledge that underpins the trade. Most master tailors who have completed TAs lack technical knowledge and have no access to technical skills upgrading. This perpetuates the cycle of basic and limited technical skills transfer to apprentices, poor performance and poverty among tailors. Both apprentices and master tailors expressed concern over knowledge limitations in TAs and a need to access further training to improve skills and acquire knowledge of the trade. The authors of this article argue that, technically and pedagogically, skilled master tailors are critical to improving training quality. Complementary training in theoretical knowledge is also important in improving apprentices' technical skills and understanding of the trade. Inclusion of TAs in government policy may help ensure sustainable improvement of skills.

  7. An Empirical System for Assessing the Impact of Aptitude Requirement Adjustments on Air Force Initial Skills Training.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mumford, Michael D.; And Others

    A multivariate modeling approach was developed to assess the impact of changes in aptitude requirement minimums on U.S. Air Force technical training outcomes. Initially, interviews were conducted with technical training personnel to identify significant student inputs, course content, and training outcome variables. Measures of these variables…

  8. The Marketability of Technical Graduates from Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) Offering Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET): A Case from Malaysia

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rajadurai, Jegatheesan; Sapuan, Noraina Mazuin; Daud, Salina; Abidin, Nurazariah

    2018-01-01

    Technical, Vocational Education and Training has been viewed as a means of developing a nation. The marketability of technical graduates is reliant on whether these graduates possess the attributes demanded by their respective industries. Hence, this study aims to investigate the gap between the key attributes of Higher Education Institutions'…

  9. The Relationship Between Technical And Nontechnical Skills Within A Simulation-Based Ureteroscopy Training Environment.

    PubMed

    Brunckhorst, Oliver; Shahid, Shahab; Aydin, Abdullatif; Khan, Shahid; McIlhenny, Craig; Brewin, James; Sahai, Arun; Bello, Fernando; Kneebone, Roger; Shamim Khan, Muhammad; Dasgupta, Prokar; Ahmed, Kamran

    2015-01-01

    Little integration of technical and nontechnical skills (e.g., situational awareness, communication, decision making, teamwork, and leadership) teaching exists within surgery. We therefore aimed to (1) evaluate the relationship between these 2 skill sets within a simulation-based environment and (2) assess if certain nontechnical skill components are of particular relevance to technical performance. A prospective analysis of data acquired from a comparative study of simulation vs nonsimulation training was conducted. Half of the participants underwent training of technical and nontechnical skills within ureteroscopy, with the remaining half undergoing no training. All were assessed within a full immersion environment against both technical (time to completion, Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills, and task-specific checklist scores) and nontechnical parameters (Nontechnical Skills for Surgeons [NOTSS] rating scale). The data of whole and individual cohorts were analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficient. The trial took place within the Simulation and Interactive Learning Centre at Guy's Hospital, London, UK. In total, 32 novice participants with no prior practical ureteroscopy experience were included within the data analysis. A correlation was found within all outcome measures analyzed. For the whole cohort, a strong negative correlation was found between time to completion and NOTSS scores (r = -0.75, p < 0.001), with strong positive correlations identified when NOTSS scores were compared with Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (r = 0.89, p < 0.001) and task-specific checklist scores (r = 0.91, p < 0.001). Similar results were observed when each cohort was analyzed separately. Finally, all individual nontechnical skill components demonstrated a strong correlation with all technical skill parameters, regardless of training. A strong correlation between technical and nontechnical performance exists, which was demonstrated to be irrespective of training received. This may suggest an inherent link between skill sets. Furthermore, all nontechnical skill sets are important in technical performance. This supports the notion that both of these skills should be trained and assessed together within 1 curriculum. Copyright © 2015 Association of Program Directors in Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  10. Computerized Auditory Training in Students: Electrophysiological and Subjective Analysis of Therapeutic Effectiveness.

    PubMed

    Melo, Ândrea de; Mezzomo, Carolina Lisbôa; Garcia, Michele Vargas; Biaggio, Eliara Pinto Vieira

    2018-01-01

    Introduction  Computerized auditory training (CAT) has been building a good reputation in the stimulation of auditory abilities in cases of auditory processing disorder (APD). Objective  To measure the effects of CAT in students with APD, with typical or atypical phonological acquisition, through electrophysiological and subjective measures, correlating them pre- and post-therapy. Methods  The sample for this study includes14 children with APD, subdivided into children with APD and typical phonological acquisition (G1), and children with APD and atypical phonological acquisition (G2). Phonological evaluation of children (PEC), long latency auditory evoked potential (LLAEP) and scale of auditory behaviors (SAB) were conducted to help with the composition of the groups and with the therapeutic intervention. The therapeutic intervention was performed using the software Escuta Ativa (CTS Informática, Pato Branco, Brazil) in 12 sessions of 30 minutes, twice a week. For data analysis, the appropriate statistical tests were used. Results  A decrease in the latency of negative wave N2 and the positive wave P3 in the left ear in G1, and a decrease of P2 in the right ear in G2 were observed. In the analysis comparing the pre- and post-CAT groups, there was a significant difference in P1 latency in the left ear and P2 latency in the right ear, pre-intervention. Furthermore, eight children had an absence of the P3 wave, pre-CAT, but after the intervention, all of them presented the P3 wave. There were changes in the SAB score pre- and post-CAT in both groups. The presence of correlation between the scale and some LLAEP components was observed. Conclusion  The CAT produced an electrophysiological modification, which became evident in the effects of the effects of neural plasticity after CAT. The SAB proved to be useful in measuring the therapeutic effects of the intervention. Moreover, there were behavioral changes in the SAB (higher scores) and correlation with LLAEP.

  11. 48 CFR 301.604 - Training and certification of Contracting Officers' Technical Representatives.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Training and certification of Contracting Officers' Technical Representatives. 301.604 Section 301.604 Federal Acquisition..., Contracting Authority, and Responsibilities 301.604 Training and certification of Contracting Officers...

  12. 78 FR 42803 - Comment Request for Information Collection for Job Corps Health Questionnaire (OMB Control No...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-07-17

    ... Job Corps is the nation's largest residential, educational, and career technical training program for... Educational Development (GED), and career technical training credentials, including industry-recognized... DEPARTMENT OF LABOR Employment and Training Administration Comment Request for Information...

  13. 31 CFR 543.301 - Arms or any related materiel.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... solely for humanitarian or protective use, and related technical assistance and training; (c) Supplies of... of arms and related materiel and technical training and assistance intended solely for support of or... technical assistance intended solely for the support of or use by the United Nations Operation in Côte d...

  14. 13 CFR 119.1 - What is the Program for Investment in Microentrepreneurs (“PRIME” or “the Act”)?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... SBA to make grants to “qualified organizations” to fund training and technical assistance for disadvantaged entrepreneurs, build these organizations' own capacity to give training and technical assistance, fund research and development of “best practices” in microenterprise development and technical...

  15. 22 CFR 126.1 - Prohibited exports and sales to certain countries.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ...-case basis, for supplies of arms and related materials or technical training and assistance intended... Haiti, supplies of arms and related materials for technical training and assistance intended solely for..., defense services or technical data subject to this subchapter may be made to any country referred to in...

  16. The Effects of Integrating On-Going Training for Technical Documentation Teams

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Catanio, Joseph T.; Catanio, Teri L.

    2010-01-01

    The tools and techniques utilized in the technical communications profession are constantly improving and changing. Information Technology (IT) organizations devote the necessary resources to equip and train engineering, marketing, and sales teams, but often fail to do so for technical documentation teams. Many IT organizations tend to view…

  17. Technical note: Validation of an ear-tag accelerometer sensor to determine rumination, eating, and activity behaviors of grazing dairy cattle.

    PubMed

    Pereira, G M; Heins, B J; Endres, M I

    2018-03-01

    The objective of this study was to validate an ear-tag accelerometer sensor (CowManager SensOor, Agis Automatisering BV, Harmelen, the Netherlands) using direct visual observations in a grazing dairy herd. Lactating crossbred cows (n = 24) were used for this experiment at the University of Minnesota West Central Research and Outreach Center grazing dairy (Morris, MN) during the summer of 2016. A single trained observer recorded behavior every minute for 6 h for each cow (24 cows × 6 h = 144 h of observation total). Direct visual observation was compared with sensor data during August and September 2016. The sensor detected and identified ear and head movements, and through algorithms the sensor classified each minute as one of the following behaviors: rumination, eating, not active, active, and high active. A 2-sided t-test was conducted with PROC TTEST of SAS (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC) to compare the percentage of time each cow's behavior was recorded by direct visual observation and sensor data. For total recorded time, the percentage of time of direct visual observation compared with sensor data was 17.9 and 19.1% for rumination, 52.8 and 51.9% for eating, 17.4 and 11.9% for not active, and 7.9 and 21.1% for active. Pearson correlations (PROC CORR of SAS) were used to evaluate associations between direct visual observations and sensor data. Furthermore, concordance correlation coefficient (CCC), bias correction factors, location shift, and scale shift (epiR package of R version 3.3.1; R Foundation for Statistical Computing, Vienna, Austria) were calculated to provide a measure of accuracy and precision. Correlations between visual observations for all 4 behaviors were highly to weakly correlated (rumination: r = 0.72, CCC = 0.71; eating: r = 0.88, CCC = 0.88; not active: r = 0.65, CCC = 0.52; and active: r = 0.20, CCC = 0.19) compared with sensor data. The results suggest that the sensor accurately monitors rumination and eating behavior of grazing dairy cattle. However, active behaviors may be more difficult for the sensor to record than others. Copyright © 2018 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. Tunnel pressure waves - A smartphone inquiry on rail travel

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Müller, Andreas; Hirth, Michael; Kuhn, Jochen

    2016-02-01

    When traveling by rail, you might have experienced the following phenomenon: The train enters a tunnel, and after some seconds a noticeable pressure change occurs, as perceived by your ears or even by a rapid wobbling of the train windows. The basic physics is that pressure waves created by the train travel down the tunnel, are reflected at its other end, and travel back until they meet the train again. Here we will show (i) how this effect can be well understood as a kind of large-scale outdoor case of a textbook paradigm, and (ii) how, e.g., a prediction of the tunnel length from the inside of a moving train on the basis of this model can be validated by means of a mobile phone measurement.

  19. 13 CFR 119.4 - What services or activities must PRIME grant funds be used for?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... to— (a) Provide training and technical assistance to disadvantaged microentrepreneurs (“Technical Assistance Grant”); (b) Provide training and capacity building services to microenterprise development organizations and programs to assist them to develop microenterprise training and services (“Capacity Building...

  20. Factors Affecting Training Effectiveness in Synchronous, Dispersed Virtual Environments

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2014-06-01

    technology to its technical training programs. Specifically, a distance learning model with instruction provided through 3-D virtual worlds could...ABSTRACT The U.S. Navy is investigating the feasibility of incorporating distance learning technology to its technical training programs. Specifically...15 A. TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTANCE MODEL

  1. Cost/Benefit Evaluation of Three English Language Training Programs for Potential Navy Use.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Swope, William M.; And Others

    As part of its plans to recruit Hispanic personnel who speak English as a second language, the U.S. Navy will have to provide English language training as well as technical training to prepare these personnel for fleet duty. A cost/benefit analysis was conducted of three English language training programs: the English Technical Language School…

  2. THE HARD OF HEARING. PRENTICE-HALL FOUNDATIONS OF SPEECH PATHOLOGY SERIES.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    O'NEILL, JOHN J.

    BASIC INFORMATION ABOUT TESTING, DIAGNOSING, AND REHABILITATING THE HARD OF HEARING IS OFFERED IN THIS INTRODUCTORY TEXT. THE PHYSICS OF SOUND, AUDITORY THEORY, ANATOMY AND PATHOLOGY OF THE EAR, AND DIAGNOSTIC ROUTINES ARE DISCUSSED. A CHAPTER ON AURAL REHABILITATION INCLUDES AN OVERVIEW OF LIPREADING AND AUDITORY TRAINING TECHNIQUES FOR ADULTS…

  3. Foundation, Organization, and Purpose of the National Consortium for Computer-Based Musical Instruction

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hofstetter, Fred T.

    1976-01-01

    This paper begins with a look at the present state of computer applications to music education. Instructional systems for instrumental music, music fundamentals, ear-training, set theory, composition, analysis, information retrieval, automated music printing and computer-managed instruction are discussed. The functions of the NCCBMI are described.…

  4. The visible ear simulator: a public PC application for GPU-accelerated haptic 3D simulation of ear surgery based on the visible ear data.

    PubMed

    Sorensen, Mads Solvsten; Mosegaard, Jesper; Trier, Peter

    2009-06-01

    Existing virtual simulators for middle ear surgery are based on 3-dimensional (3D) models from computed tomographic or magnetic resonance imaging data in which image quality is limited by the lack of detail (maximum, approximately 50 voxels/mm3), natural color, and texture of the source material.Virtual training often requires the purchase of a program, a customized computer, and expensive peripherals dedicated exclusively to this purpose. The Visible Ear freeware library of digital images from a fresh-frozen human temporal bone was segmented, and real-time volume rendered as a 3D model of high-fidelity, true color, and great anatomic detail and realism of the surgically relevant structures. A haptic drilling model was developed for surgical interaction with the 3D model. Realistic visualization in high-fidelity (approximately 125 voxels/mm3) and true color, 2D, or optional anaglyph stereoscopic 3D was achieved on a standard Core 2 Duo personal computer with a GeForce 8,800 GTX graphics card, and surgical interaction was provided through a relatively inexpensive (approximately $2,500) Phantom Omni haptic 3D pointing device. This prototype is published for download (approximately 120 MB) as freeware at http://www.alexandra.dk/ves/index.htm.With increasing personal computer performance, future versions may include enhanced resolution (up to 8,000 voxels/mm3) and realistic interaction with deformable soft tissue components such as skin, tympanic membrane, dura, and cholesteatomas-features some of which are not possible with computed tomographic-/magnetic resonance imaging-based systems.

  5. Curriculum Development System for Navy Technical Training.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Butler, Lucius

    Documentation for the U.S. Navy's curriculum development system is brought together in this paper, beginning with a description of the Naval Technical Training System. This description includes the Navy Training Plan (NTP) process, which is the current mechanism for introducing new courses; the organization and administration of the system; the…

  6. The Job Training and Job Satisfaction Survey Technical Manual

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Schmidt, Steven W.

    2004-01-01

    Job training has become an important aspect of an employee's overall job experience. However, it is not often called out specifically on instruments measuring job satisfaction. This technical manual details the processes used in the development and validation of a survey instrument to measure job training satisfaction and overall job…

  7. Annual progress report : for the period of January 2001 through December 2001 : Florida Transit Training Program (2001) : Florida Technical Assistance Program (2001)

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2001-01-01

    The following progress report is intended to highlight the significant activities of the Florida Transit Training Program and Florida Technical Assistant Program for the 2001 year. Activities of the Florida Statewide Transit Training Program are pres...

  8. 77 FR 34354 - Notice Inviting Informal Public Comment on Training and Technical Assistance and Disability...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-06-11

    ... and Technical Assistance and Disability Inclusion Programming AGENCY: Corporation for National and... implementation of a unified training and technical assistance (TTA) strategy and disability inclusion programming... to CNCS as we plan and prepare for this work. We will accept comments in writing, as described below...

  9. Native American Commercial Driving Training and Technical Assistance Act. Hearing before the Committee on Indian Affairs, United States Senate, One Hundred Seventh Congress, Second Session, on S. 1344, To Provide Training and Technical Assistance to Native Americans Who Are Interested in Commercial Vehicle Driving Careers (July 24, 2002).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Congress of the U.S., Washington, DC. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs.

    A Senate committe hearing received testimony on the proposed "Native American Commercial Driving Training and Technical Assistance Act" (Senate Bill 1344). The Act cites the high unemployment and economic distress among Native Americans, the federal government's obligation to assist Indian tribes with economic development, the high…

  10. Heart Rate Responses and Training Load During Nonspecific and Specific Aerobic Training in Adolescent Taekwondo Athletes

    PubMed Central

    Haddad, Monoem; Chaouachi, Anis; Wong, Del P.; Castagna, Carlo; Chamari, Karim

    2011-01-01

    The efficacy of replacing generic running with Taekwondo (TKD) specific technical skills during interval training at an intensity corresponding to 90–95% of maximum heart rate (HRmax) has not yet been demonstrated. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to compare the HR responses and perceived exertion between controlled running and high-intensity TKD technical interval training in adolescent TKD athletes. Eighteen adolescent, male TKD athletes performed short-duration interval running and TKD specific technical skills (i.e. 10–20 [10-s of exercise interspersed with 20 s of passive recovery]) in a counterbalanced design. In both training methods, HR was measured and expressed as the percentage of HR reserve (%HRres). Rating of perceived exertion (RPE, Borg’s category rating-10 scale), Banister’s training impulse (TRIMP) and Edwards’ training load (TL) were used to quantify the internal training load. Recorded cardiovascular responses expressed in %HRres in the two training methods were not significantly different (p > 0.05). Furthermore, the two training methods induced similar training loads as calculated by Banister and Edwards’ methods. Perceived exertion ranged between “hard” and “very hard” during all interval training sessions. These findings showed that performing repeated TKD specific skills increased HR to the same level, and were perceived as producing the same training intensity as did short-duration interval running in adolescent TKD athletes. Therefore, using specific TKD kicking exercises in high-intensity interval training can be applied to bring more variety during training, mixing physical and technical aspects of the sport, while reaching the same intensity as interval running. PMID:23486727

  11. 10 CFR 2.703 - Examination by experts.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... permit a qualified individual who has scientific or technical training or experience to participate on... technical training or experience to contribute to the development of an adequate decisional record in the...

  12. Binaural electric-acoustic interactions recorded from the inferior colliculus of Guinea pigs: the effect of masking observed in the central nucleus of the inferior colliculus.

    PubMed

    Noh, Heil; Lee, Dong-Hee

    2012-09-01

    To investigate the electric-acoustic interactions within the inferior colliculus of guinea pigs and to observe how central masking appears in invasive neural recordings of the inferior colliculus (IC). A platinum-iridium wire was inserted to scala tympani through cochleostomy with a depth no greater than 1 mm for intracochlear stimulation of electric pulse train. A 5 mm 100 µm, single-shank, thin-film, penetrating recording probe was inserted perpendicularly to the surface of the IC in the coronal plane at an angle of 30-40° off the parasagittal plane with a depth of 2.0-2.5 mm. The peripheral and central masking effects were compared using electric pulse trains to the left ear and acoustic noise to the left ear (ipsilateral) and to the right ear (contralateral). Binaural acoustic stimuli were presented with different time delays and compared with combined electric and acoustic stimuli. The averaged evoked potentials and total spike numbers were measured using thin-film electrodes inserted into the central nucleus of the IC. Ipsilateral noise had more obvious effects on the electric response than did contralateral noise. Contralateral noise decreased slightly the response amplitude to the electric pulse train stimuli. Immediately after the onset of acoustic noise, the response pattern changed transiently with shorter response intervals. The effects of contralateral noise were evident at the beginning of the continuous noise. The total spike number decreased when the binaural stimuli reached the IC most simultaneously. These results suggest that central masking is quite different from peripheral masking and occurs within the binaural auditory system, and this study showed that the effect of masking could be observed in the IC recording. These effects are more evident and consistent with the psychophysical data from spike number analyses than with the previously reported gross potential data.

  13. Spatial Visualization ability improves with and without studying Technical Drawing.

    PubMed

    Contreras, María José; Escrig, Rebeca; Prieto, Gerardo; Elosúa, M Rosa

    2018-03-27

    The results of several studies suggest that spatial ability can be improved through direct training with tasks similar to those integrated in the tests used to measure the ability. However, there is a greater interest in analyzing the effectiveness of indirect training such as games or of learning subjects that involve spatial processes to a certain extent. Thus, the objective of the present study was to analyze whether the indirect training in Technical Drawing improved the Spatial Visualization ability of Architecture students. For this purpose, a group of students enrolled in Fundamentals of Architecture were administered two tests, a Spatial Visualization task and an Abstract Reasoning task, at the beginning and the end of a semester, after having received training through the subjects "Technical Drawing I: Geometry and Perception" and "Projects I." The results of this group were compared with those of a control group of students enrolled in a Mathematics degree, who were also pre-post evaluated but had not received the training in Technical Drawing. The study showed a significant pre-post improvement in both, Visualization and reasoning. However, this improvement occurred in both groups, thereby concluding that this improvement was not due to indirect training. Furthermore, no significant differences were found between men and women in any of the groups or conditions. These results clarify those of an earlier study where improvement in Visualization after training in Technical Drawing was found but did not include a comparison with a control condition. The control condition has proved to be important in order to consider the limitations of the effect of Technical Drawing on said improvement.

  14. An intensive combined training program modulates physical, physiological, biomotoric, and technical parameters in women basketball players.

    PubMed

    Kilinç, Fatih

    2008-11-01

    The purpose of this study was the investigation of the effects of an intensive combined training program based on the pretest scores of a university women's basketball team on their physical, physiological, biomotoric, and technical features. Twenty-four university volunteers were equally divided into two groups: an experiment group (intensive combined training group) and a control (technical training) group. The 10-week intensive combined training program was performed on the experiment group according to their pretest outcomes. Before and at the end of each period of training, which was scheduled four times a week, the physical, physiological, biomotoric, and technical performance of each subject were determined. With respect to the pre- and posttest measurements, the basketball group showed significant differences (p < 0.05) in girth measurements (shoulder, waist, hip, arm, thigh, and calf), in skinfold measurements (percent body fat), in physiological measurements (vital capacity and forced vital capacity), in biomotoric tests (right-left hand grip, dynamic and countermovement jump, sit-up, push-up, 1500-m endurance), and in technique tests (free and inside shooting). It can be concluded that a 10-week intensive combined training program performed on university women basketball players had a significant effect on improving their physical, physiological, biomotoric, and technical features. It proved to be highly recommendable for female basketball players who are preparing for short-term tournaments; the basketball group in this study won a championship.

  15. [Breastfeeding: the importance of intervening].

    PubMed

    Aguiar, Hélder; Silva, Ana Isabel

    2011-12-01

    Breast milk is considered by the WHO the ideal food for the first months of life. Although health professionals are aware of recommendations, high rates of drop-outs have been identified in Portugal. A false notion of hypogalactia is the major factor for early termination, which is allied to the technical difficulties of the feeding. Health professionals, often lacking training in the area, may have difficulty in reassuring mothers in these situations. In Portugal, at the 3rd month, most mothers stop breastfeeding by indication of their medical assistant. Gather evidence about the advantages of breast-feeding compared to artificial milk, and establish useful strategies in clinical practice to avoid early withdrawal. A survey was conducted for articles from the last six years in the major sites of evidence-based medicine and reference sites (Pubmed, Cochrane, National Guideline Clearinghouse, Tripdatabase, WHO). Breast-feeding is clearly associated with benefits to the infant, including significant protective effects for gastrointestinal infections (64%), middle ear (23- 50%), severe respiratory infections (73%) and for acute lymphocytic leukemia (19%) and sudden death syndrome in infants (36%). We also found long-term benefits, such as for obesity (7-24%) and other cardiovascular risk factors in adulthood. The mother also benefits from its protective effect for cancers of the breast and ovary, and diabetes mellitus type 2 as also, proportionate to the duration of breastfeeding. Health professionals have an important role in the initiation and continuation of breastfeeding. The notion of its advantages, the communication prior to delivery, accessibility support and training in technical aspects of correct picks are the proven strategies for evidence explored in the article. Breast milk contains several unique and exclusive elements, orchestrators of its health benefits. Postnatal period is critical to the development of neuro--hypothalamic circuits involved in appetite control--nutritional programming--in which leptin, present in breast milk, appears to have a decisive role. Despite scientific advances, breast milk continues to demonstrate clear advantages for human health in the short and long term. Proper feeding technique is not often achieved by the dyad mother-infant alone, warning for a greater involvement of health professionals. It is urgent to continue to insist on training for the improvement of the indices relating to this area in Portugal.

  16. Training programmes can change behaviour and encourage the cultivation of over-harvested plant species.

    PubMed

    Williams, Sophie J; Jones, Julia P G; Clubbe, Colin; Gibbons, James M

    2012-01-01

    Cultivation of wild-harvested plant species has been proposed as a way of reducing over-exploitation of wild populations but lack of technical knowledge is thought to be a barrier preventing people from cultivating a new species. Training programmes are therefore used to increase technical knowledge to encourage people to adopt cultivation. We assessed the impact of a training programme aiming to encourage cultivation of xaté (Chamaedorea ernesti-augusti), an over-harvested palm from Central America. Five years after the training programme ended, we surveyed untrained and trained individuals focusing on four potential predictors of behaviour: technical knowledge, attitudes (what individuals think about a behaviour), subjective norms (what individuals perceive others to think of a behaviour) and perceived behavioural control (self assessment of whether individuals can enact the behaviour successfully). Whilst accounting for socioeconomic variables, we investigate the influence of training upon these behavioural predictors and examine the factors that determine whether people adopt cultivation of a novel species. Those who had been trained had higher levels of technical knowledge about xaté cultivation and higher belief in their ability to cultivate it while training was not associated with differences in attitudes or subjective norms. Technical knowledge and perceived behavioural control (along with socio-economic variables such as forest ownership and age) were predictors of whether individuals cultivate xaté. We suggest that training programmes can have a long lasting effect on individuals and can change behaviour. However, in many situations other barriers to cultivation, such as access to seeds or appropriate markets, will need to be addressed.

  17. Training Programmes Can Change Behaviour and Encourage the Cultivation of Over-Harvested Plant Species

    PubMed Central

    Williams, Sophie J.; Jones, Julia P. G.; Clubbe, Colin; Gibbons, James M.

    2012-01-01

    Cultivation of wild-harvested plant species has been proposed as a way of reducing over-exploitation of wild populations but lack of technical knowledge is thought to be a barrier preventing people from cultivating a new species. Training programmes are therefore used to increase technical knowledge to encourage people to adopt cultivation. We assessed the impact of a training programme aiming to encourage cultivation of xaté (Chamaedorea ernesti-augusti), an over-harvested palm from Central America. Five years after the training programme ended, we surveyed untrained and trained individuals focusing on four potential predictors of behaviour: technical knowledge, attitudes (what individuals think about a behaviour), subjective norms (what individuals perceive others to think of a behaviour) and perceived behavioural control (self assessment of whether individuals can enact the behaviour successfully). Whilst accounting for socioeconomic variables, we investigate the influence of training upon these behavioural predictors and examine the factors that determine whether people adopt cultivation of a novel species. Those who had been trained had higher levels of technical knowledge about xaté cultivation and higher belief in their ability to cultivate it while training was not associated with differences in attitudes or subjective norms. Technical knowledge and perceived behavioural control (along with socio-economic variables such as forest ownership and age) were predictors of whether individuals cultivate xaté. We suggest that training programmes can have a long lasting effect on individuals and can change behaviour. However, in many situations other barriers to cultivation, such as access to seeds or appropriate markets, will need to be addressed. PMID:22431993

  18. Final priority. Rehabilitation Training: Job-Driven Vocational Rehabilitation Technical Assistance Center. Final priority.

    PubMed

    2014-08-19

    The Assistant Secretary for Special Education and Rehabilitative Services announces a priority under the Rehabilitation Training program to establish a Job-Driven Vocational Rehabilitation Technical Assistance Center (JDVRTAC). The Assistant Secretary may use this priority for competitions in fiscal year (FY) 2014 and later years. We take this action to focus on training in an area of national need. Specifically, this priority responds to the Presidential Memorandum to Federal agencies directing them to take action to address job-driven training for the Nation's workers. The JDVRTAC will provide technical assistance (TA) to State vocational rehabilitation (VR) agencies to help them develop for individuals with disabilities training and employment opportunities that meet the needs of today's employers.

  19. Earfold Implantable Clip System for Correction of Prominent Ears: Analysis of Safety in 403 Patients

    PubMed Central

    Sojitra, Nilesh; Glumicic, Sinisa; Vlok, Jacobus A.; O’Toole, Greg; Hannan, S. Alam; Sabbagh, Walid

    2018-01-01

    Background: The Earfold system, a new treatment for the correction of prominent ears, consists of 3 components: the Earfold implant, the Earfold introducer, and the Prefold positioner. Methods: This is an interim report based on an ongoing analysis of safety in a series of patients treated for prominent ears with the Earfold implant between February 2013 and September 2014. Safety was assessed based on adverse event reports and the need for implant revision; follow-up is ongoing. Results: Seven surgeons used 1,200 Earfold implants to treat 403 patients (ages, 7–70 years; 63% male); the time since the initial implant procedure now ranges from 30 to 48 months. To date, 145 patients (36%) have returned for a follow-up visit (mean, 7.7 months [range, 1–34 months]). Adverse events requiring intervention have affected 39 of 403 (9.7%) patients; these include implant revisions (n = 17 [4.2%], most often due to implant visibility), skin erosion over the implant (n = 15 [3.7%]), and infection (n = 7 [1.7%]). Bleeding, recurrence of prominence, hematoma, deformity, or adverse scarring did not occur. Conclusions: This interim analysis has shown that Earfold prominent ear correction system is associated with relatively few adverse events that require intervention; a small number of patients experienced infection, implant extrusion, or implant visibility that required revision. Most adverse events were related to either patient selection or technical errors at implantation. It is expected that with continued use of Earfold by surgeons experienced in otoplasty, the adverse event incidence will decrease. PMID:29464160

  20. A Technical Analysis Information Fusion Approach for Stock Price Analysis and Modeling

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lahmiri, Salim

    In this paper, we address the problem of technical analysis information fusion in improving stock market index-level prediction. We present an approach for analyzing stock market price behavior based on different categories of technical analysis metrics and a multiple predictive system. Each category of technical analysis measures is used to characterize stock market price movements. The presented predictive system is based on an ensemble of neural networks (NN) coupled with particle swarm intelligence for parameter optimization where each single neural network is trained with a specific category of technical analysis measures. The experimental evaluation on three international stock market indices and three individual stocks show that the presented ensemble-based technical indicators fusion system significantly improves forecasting accuracy in comparison with single NN. Also, it outperforms the classical neural network trained with index-level lagged values and NN trained with stationary wavelet transform details and approximation coefficients. As a result, technical information fusion in NN ensemble architecture helps improving prediction accuracy.

  1. Non-technical skills assessment in surgery.

    PubMed

    Sharma, Bharat; Mishra, Amit; Aggarwal, Rajesh; Grantcharov, Teodor P

    2011-09-01

    Adverse events in surgery have highlighted the importance of non-technical skills, such as communication, decision-making, teamwork, situational awareness and leadership, to effective organizational performance. These skills carry particular importance to surgical oncology, as members of a multidisciplinary team must work cohesively to formulate effective patient care plans. Several non-technical skills evaluation tools have been developed for use in surgery, without adequate comparison and consensus on which should be standard for training. Eleven articles describing the use of three non-technical evaluation tools related to surgery: NOTSS (Non Technical Skills for Surgeons), NOTECHS (Non Technical Skills) and OTAS (Observational Teamwork Assessment for Surgery) were analyzed with respect to scale formulation, validity, reliability and feasibility. Furthermore, their use in training thus far and the future of non-technical rating scales in surgical curricula was discussed. Future work should focus on incorporating these assessment tools into training and into a real operating room setting to provide formative evaluations for surgical residents. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. Auditory agnosia due to long-term severe hydrocephalus caused by spina bifida - specific auditory pathway versus nonspecific auditory pathway.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Qing; Kaga, Kimitaka; Hayashi, Akimasa

    2011-07-01

    A 27-year-old female showed auditory agnosia after long-term severe hydrocephalus due to congenital spina bifida. After years of hydrocephalus, she gradually suffered from hearing loss in her right ear at 19 years of age, followed by her left ear. During the time when she retained some ability to hear, she experienced severe difficulty in distinguishing verbal, environmental, and musical instrumental sounds. However, her auditory brainstem response and distortion product otoacoustic emissions were largely intact in the left ear. Her bilateral auditory cortices were preserved, as shown by neuroimaging, whereas her auditory radiations were severely damaged owing to progressive hydrocephalus. Although she had a complete bilateral hearing loss, she felt great pleasure when exposed to music. After years of self-training to read lips, she regained fluent ability to communicate. Clinical manifestations of this patient indicate that auditory agnosia can occur after long-term hydrocephalus due to spina bifida; the secondary auditory pathway may play a role in both auditory perception and hearing rehabilitation.

  3. INDOT Technical Training Plan

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2012-04-01

    The study provides the background documents necessary for the development of a Technical Training Plan and makes recommendations : for the content and structure of such a plan for the District Operations, Operations, Capital Program Management, and E...

  4. An "EAR" on environmental surveillance and monitoring: A ...

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    Current environmental monitoring approaches focus primarily on chemical occurrence. However, based on chemical concentration alone, it can be difficult to identify which compounds may be of toxicological concern for prioritization for further monitoring or management. This can be problematic because toxicological characterization is lacking for many emerging contaminants. New sources of high throughput screening data like the ToxCast™ database, which contains data for over 9,000 compounds screened through up to 1,100 assays, are now available. Integrated analysis of chemical occurrence data with HTS data offers new opportunities to prioritize chemicals, sites, or biological effects for further investigation based on concentrations detected in the environment linked to relative potencies in pathway-based bioassays. As a case study, chemical occurrence data from a 2012 study in the Great Lakes Basin along with the ToxCast™ effects database were used to calculate exposure-activity ratios (EARs) as a prioritization tool. Technical considerations of data processing and use of the ToxCast™ database are presented and discussed. EAR prioritization identified multiple sites, biological pathways, and chemicals that warrant further investigation. Biological pathways were then linked to adverse outcome pathways to identify potential adverse outcomes and biomarkers for use in subsequent monitoring efforts. Anthropogenic contaminants are frequently reported in environm

  5. Assessing the Validity of Air Force Selection and Training Strategies.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mumford, Michael D.; And Others

    A study was undertaken to develop a system for predicting the impact of adjustments in aptitude requirements on outcomes (performance) in Air Force basic resident technical training. To accomplish this, a multivariate modeling approach was used. Initially, interviews were constructed within a variety of technical training programs to specify the…

  6. An Information and Technical Manual for the Computer-Assisted Teacher Training System (CATTS).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Semmel, Melvyn I.; And Others

    The manual presents technical information on the computer assisted teacher training system (CATTS) which aims at developing a versatile and economical computer based teacher training system with the capability of providing immediate analysis and feedback of data relevant to teacher pupil transactions in a classroom setting. The physical…

  7. 77 FR 70467 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comments Requested; Revision of...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-11-26

    ... Training and Technical Assistance Center (OVC TTAC) Feedback Form Package ACTION: 30-day notice. The...: The Office for Victims of Crime Training and Technical Assistance Center (OVC TTAC) Feedback Form... needs of the victim services field. OVC TTAC will give these forms to recipients of training and...

  8. Simultaneous Estimation of Regression Functions for Marine Corps Technical Training Specialties.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Dunbar, Stephen B.; And Others

    This paper considers the application of Bayesian techniques for simultaneous estimation to the specification of regression weights for selection tests used in various technical training courses in the Marine Corps. Results of a method for m-group regression developed by Molenaar and Lewis (1979) suggest that common weights for training courses…

  9. Education and Training of Accountants in Sub-Saharan Anglophone Africa. World Bank Technical Paper Number 305. Africa Technical Department Series.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Johnson, Sonia R.

    This paper describes the accounting profession, and the education and training of accountants and accounting technicians in Sub-Saharan Anglophone Africa. The report reviews professional accounting examinations and degrees, education, practical training, and continuing professional education. The paper highlights the weaknesses in accounting…

  10. Voprosy professional'noj pedagogiki (Aspects of the Theory of Vocational Education).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Batysev, S. J.; And Others

    This document is an English-language abstract (Approximately 1,500 words) of a book by several Soviet authorities on vocational and technical education. The five sections of the book deal with general aspects of vocational and technical training; the theory of vocational training; psychological aspects of vocational training; basic instructional…

  11. Special Project for Research Training in Vocational Education: Research Training Series. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Vivian, Neal E.

    To upgrade research and research utilization competence of vocational educators, The Center for Vocational and Technical Education and The American Vocational Association planned four 1-week research training programs on: (1) Planning Vocational/Technical Education Programs Based on Manpower Research, (2) Patterns of Career Development as Applied…

  12. NHSA Position Paper: The Design of a Head Start Training and Technical Assistance System.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    NHSA Journal, 1994

    1994-01-01

    This position paper examines the current Head Start training and technical assistance (TTA) system and proposes specific improvements. These include the creation of regional TTA offices, the use of satellite and interactive communications technology, and a reevaluation of the role of teaching centers, national training contracts, and Head Start…

  13. University-government relationships in the training of technical writers-editors

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Stohrer, Freda F.; Pinelli, Thomas E.

    1979-01-01

    Traditional and nontraditional methods of training technical writers-editors are reviewed. Combining work experience with classroom instruction in the form of cooperative education provides a method of strengthening the Federal career service in professional occupations. The NASA Langley experience that successfully introduced students to the special demands of technical writing and editing is described.

  14. Binaural Pitch Fusion in Bilateral Cochlear Implant Users.

    PubMed

    Reiss, Lina A J; Fowler, Jennifer R; Hartling, Curtis L; Oh, Yonghee

    Binaural pitch fusion is the fusion of stimuli that evoke different pitches between the ears into a single auditory image. Individuals who use hearing aids or bimodal cochlear implants (CIs) experience abnormally broad binaural pitch fusion, such that sounds differing in pitch by as much as 3-4 octaves are fused across ears, leading to spectral averaging and speech perception interference. The goal of this study was to determine if adult bilateral CI users also experience broad binaural pitch fusion. Stimuli were pulse trains delivered to individual electrodes. Fusion ranges were measured using simultaneous, dichotic presentation of reference and comparison stimuli in opposite ears, and varying the comparison stimulus to find the range that fused with the reference stimulus. Bilateral CI listeners had binaural pitch fusion ranges varying from 0 to 12 mm (average 6.1 ± 3.9 mm), where 12 mm indicates fusion over all electrodes in the array. No significant correlations of fusion range were observed with any subject factors related to age, hearing loss history, or hearing device history, or with any electrode factors including interaural electrode pitch mismatch, pitch match bandwidth, or within-ear electrode discrimination abilities. Bilateral CI listeners have abnormally broad fusion, similar to hearing aid and bimodal CI listeners. This broad fusion may explain the variability of binaural benefits for speech perception in quiet and in noise in bilateral CI users.

  15. Equal Opportunity Leadership Training for Company-Level Chain of Command

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1981-01-01

    Relations/ Equal Opportunity Training in USAREUR, ARI Technical Report TR-78-B10, Alexandria, Va.: US. Army Research Institute for the Behavioral and Social ...Behavioral and Social Sciences, 1978. Marcia A. Gilbert and Peter G. Nordlie, An Analysis of Race Relations/ Equal Opportunity Training in USAREUR, ARI...Technical Report 534 - EQUAL OPPORTUNITY LEADERSHIP TRAINING FOR COMPANY-LEVEL CHAIN OF COMMAND Dale K. Brown, Silas J. White, Exequiel R. Sevilla

  16. Gauging Skills of Hospital Security Personnel: a Statistically-driven, Questionnaire-based Approach.

    PubMed

    Rinkoo, Arvind Vashishta; Mishra, Shubhra; Rahesuddin; Nabi, Tauqeer; Chandra, Vidha; Chandra, Hem

    2013-01-01

    This study aims to gauge the technical and soft skills of the hospital security personnel so as to enable prioritization of their training needs. A cross sectional questionnaire based study was conducted in December 2011. Two separate predesigned and pretested questionnaires were used for gauging soft skills and technical skills of the security personnel. Extensive statistical analysis, including Multivariate Analysis (Pillai-Bartlett trace along with Multi-factorial ANOVA) and Post-hoc Tests (Bonferroni Test) was applied. The 143 participants performed better on the soft skills front with an average score of 6.43 and standard deviation of 1.40. The average technical skills score was 5.09 with a standard deviation of 1.44. The study avowed a need for formal hands on training with greater emphasis on technical skills. Multivariate analysis of the available data further helped in identifying 20 security personnel who should be prioritized for soft skills training and a group of 36 security personnel who should receive maximum attention during technical skills training. This statistically driven approach can be used as a prototype by healthcare delivery institutions worldwide, after situation specific customizations, to identify the training needs of any category of healthcare staff.

  17. Gauging Skills of Hospital Security Personnel: a Statistically-driven, Questionnaire-based Approach

    PubMed Central

    Rinkoo, Arvind Vashishta; Mishra, Shubhra; Rahesuddin; Nabi, Tauqeer; Chandra, Vidha; Chandra, Hem

    2013-01-01

    Objectives This study aims to gauge the technical and soft skills of the hospital security personnel so as to enable prioritization of their training needs. Methodology A cross sectional questionnaire based study was conducted in December 2011. Two separate predesigned and pretested questionnaires were used for gauging soft skills and technical skills of the security personnel. Extensive statistical analysis, including Multivariate Analysis (Pillai-Bartlett trace along with Multi-factorial ANOVA) and Post-hoc Tests (Bonferroni Test) was applied. Results The 143 participants performed better on the soft skills front with an average score of 6.43 and standard deviation of 1.40. The average technical skills score was 5.09 with a standard deviation of 1.44. The study avowed a need for formal hands on training with greater emphasis on technical skills. Multivariate analysis of the available data further helped in identifying 20 security personnel who should be prioritized for soft skills training and a group of 36 security personnel who should receive maximum attention during technical skills training. Conclusion This statistically driven approach can be used as a prototype by healthcare delivery institutions worldwide, after situation specific customizations, to identify the training needs of any category of healthcare staff. PMID:23559904

  18. Training on women and renewable sources of energy.

    PubMed

    Duenas Loza, M

    1997-01-01

    The training package developed by the International Research and Training Institute for the Advancement of Women in 1989 focuses on women and energy. The Institute conducts training activities using collected, analyzed and disseminated information and documentation, as well as identification of critical research and training activities and promotion of integrated issues on women and energy policies, programs and projects. Previous training experiences identified the inefficient quality of training offered to community members, technical staff and technical agencies, with more emphasis on the technical skills instead on the managerial, socio-organizational and environmental aspects. The creation of a multimedia modular training material provides an association between the issues of women, New and Renewable Sources of Energy (NRSE) and environmental aspects necessary for the strengthening of national institutions, promotion of socioeconomical and technically feasible renewable technologies, and awareness building, information and communication enhancement. The package covers 1) overview of the UN activities on NRSE; 2) Women's Position in the Energy Sector; 3) NRSE Project and Program design and implementation; 4) relevant NRSE characteristics and technology systems; 5) education and training activities in NRSE projects. This training package is designed to contribute a new approach in the organization and management of NRSE through integration of women's needs and increase awareness and capabilities of planners, officials and experts. In addition, several training seminars were conducted during 1989-91, which focused on the relationship between women and renewable energy sources through the application of participatory and self-reliant techniques.

  19. 34 CFR 366.13 - How does the Secretary determine funding priorities?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... LIVING Training and Technical Assistance § 366.13 How does the Secretary determine funding priorities? In... training and technical assistance needs identified by the survey of SILCs and centers required by section...

  20. INDOT Technical Training Plan : Appendix B

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2012-04-01

    The study provides the background documents necessary for the development of a Technical Training Plan and makes recommendations for the content and structure of such a plan for the District Operations, Operations, Capital Program Management, and Eng...

  1. INDOT Technical Training Plan : Appendix M

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2012-04-01

    The study provides the background documents necessary for the development of a Technical Training Plan and makes recommendations for the content and structure of such a plan for the District Operations, Operations, Capital Program Management, and Eng...

  2. INDOT Technical Training Plan : Appendix P

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2012-04-01

    The study provides the background documents necessary for the development of a Technical Training Plan and makes recommendations for the content and structure of such a plan for the District Operations, Operations, Capital Program Management, and Eng...

  3. INDOT Technical Training Plan : Appendix F

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2012-04-01

    The study provides the background documents necessary for the development of a Technical Training Plan and makes recommendations for the content and structure of such a plan for the District Operations, Operations, Capital Program Management, and Eng...

  4. INDOT Technical Training Plan : Appendix H

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2012-04-01

    The study provides the background documents necessary for the development of a Technical Training Plan and makes recommendations for the content and structure of such a plan for the District Operations, Operations, Capital Program Management, and Eng...

  5. INDOT Technical Training Plan : Appendix E

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2012-04-01

    The study provides the background documents necessary for the development of a Technical Training Plan and makes recommendations for the content and structure of such a plan for the District Operations, Operations, Capital Program Management, and Eng...

  6. INDOT Technical Training Plan : Appendix O

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2012-04-01

    The study provides the background documents necessary for the development of a Technical Training Plan and makes recommendations for the content and structure of such a plan for the District Operations, Operations, Capital Program Management, and Eng...

  7. INDOT Technical Training Plan : Appendix J

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2012-04-01

    The study provides the background documents necessary for the development of a Technical Training Plan and makes recommendations for the content and structure of such a plan for the District Operations, Operations, Capital Program Management, and Eng...

  8. INDOT Technical Training Plan : Appendix L

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2012-04-01

    The study provides the background documents necessary for the development of a Technical Training Plan and makes recommendations for the content and structure of such a plan for the District Operations, Operations, Capital Program Management, and Eng...

  9. INDOT Technical Training Plan : Appendix A

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2012-04-01

    The study provides the background documents necessary for the development of a Technical Training Plan and makes recommendations for the content and structure of such a plan for the District Operations, Operations, Capital Program Management, and Eng...

  10. INDOT Technical Training Plan : Appendix D

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2012-04-01

    The study provides the background documents necessary for the development of a Technical Training Plan and makes recommendations for the content and structure of such a plan for the District Operations, Operations, Capital Program Management, and Eng...

  11. Technical Education in Agriculture at the Post Secondary Level

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Leamer, Thomas C.

    1978-01-01

    A college dean discusses two-year postsecondary agriculture technology programs and the need for properly trained faculty to train students for semiskilled, skilled, and technical positions both on and off the farm. (MF)

  12. INDOT Technical Training Plan : Appendix K

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2012-04-01

    The study provides the background documents necessary for the development of a Technical Training Plan and makes recommendations for the content and structure of such a plan for the District Operations, Operations, Capital Program Management, and Eng...

  13. INDOT Technical Training Plan : Appendix G

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2012-04-01

    The study provides the background documents necessary for the development of a Technical Training Plan and makes recommendations for the content and structure of such a plan for the District Operations, Operations, Capital Program Management, and Eng...

  14. INDOT Technical Training Plan : Appendix I

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2012-04-01

    The study provides the background documents necessary for the development of a Technical Training Plan and makes recommendations for the content and structure of such a plan for the District Operations, Operations, Capital Program Management, and Eng...

  15. INDOT Technical Training Plan : Appendix N

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2012-04-01

    The study provides the background documents necessary for the development of a Technical Training Plan and makes recommendations for the content and structure of such a plan for the District Operations, Operations, Capital Program Management, and Eng...

  16. INDOT Technical Training Plan : Appendix C

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2012-04-01

    The study provides the background documents necessary for the development of a Technical Training Plan and makes recommendations for the content and structure of such a plan for the District Operations, Operations, Capital Program Management, and Eng...

  17. Handbook of Format Models for Designers of Technical Training Materials.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1982-08-01

    extended to Raloh Rotzer of the Naval Technical Training Center, Corry Station, Florida, and to CTM2 Pamela Tornow , formerly of that training center...sheets supporting the AN/USM-425(V)1 oscilloscope training (Rotzer and Tornow , 1982). Excerpts from the job sheets are presented in the appendix. Results...Procedure Training Aid for the Learning of Initial Control S for the AQS-13E SonarTn the1-3H Aircraft. IPublished inT , ’BM Rotzer, R. and Tornow , P

  18. The Effect of the Tuning System and Instrument Variables on Modal Dictation Performance

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Demirbatir, Rasim Erol; Çeliktas, Hatice; Engür, Doruk

    2018-01-01

    Ear training and musical literacy (ETML) education is one of the main dimensions of the bachelor degree program of music teacher education departments, which provides professional music education. In ETML education, hearing, sight-reading and dictation studies for Turkish music makams have an important place. In this study, it was aimed to…

  19. Using Simultaneous Prompting and Computer-Assisted Instruction to Teach Story Writing to Students with Autism

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Pennington, Robert C.; Ault, Melinda Jones; Schuster, John W.; Sanders, Ann

    2011-01-01

    In the current study, the researchers evaluated the effects of simultaneous prompting and computer-assisted instruction on the story-writing responses of 3 males with autism, 7 to 10 ears of age. Classroom teachers conducted all probe and training sessions. The researchers used a multiple baseline across participants design to evaluate the…

  20. Theory I: A Comprehensive Approach to Theory Through Ear Training, Music: 5636.18.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Blum, Jesse

    This Quinmester, 9-week course of study, is an aural approach to theory through sight singing and dictation techniques employing the moveable "Do" and number systems, interspersed with an outline approach to general music history. It is designed for students acquainted with staff notation and exposed to keyboard or to instrumental or…

  1. Public Role and Engagement in Counterterrorism Efforts: Implications of Israeli Practices for the U.S.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2009-04-02

    the Los Angeles Police ... police Sergeant there, “We’re training more eyes and ears for the city.”158 Los Angeles DHS Secretary Chertoff, in a speech before the International...psychological counterterrorist warfare is public education that changes people’s attitude towards terrorism, reduces the levels of irrational anxiety and

  2. Effects of Immediate Feedback Using Bug-in-Ear with Paraeducators Working with Students with Autism

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Scheeler, Mary Catherine; Morano, Stephanie; Lee, David L.

    2018-01-01

    In today's autistic-support classrooms, paraeducators are tasked with working with our neediest students yet report that they are unprepared for their roles despite attempts at training. The special education teachers who are tasked with coaching and supervising several paraeducators at a time in their classrooms report that they too are…

  3. Scientific and technical training in the Soviet Union

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Spearman, M. L.

    1984-01-01

    The Soviet Union recognizes that the foundation of their system depends upon complete dedication of the people to the state through thorough psychological training as well as through military training, and through specialized education in the broad fields of engineering, natural sciences, life sciences, social sciences, and education. An outline of the U.S.S.R. educational system indicates the extent of academic training, coupled with on-the-job and military training, that can produce a highly skilled, dedicated, and matured person. Observations on the coupling of political, economic, and psychological training along with the technical training are made, along with some mention of positive and negative aspects of the training.

  4. The Establishment of Centres for the Training of Teachers in Technical and Further Education in England, 1933-1950

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bailey, Bill

    2007-01-01

    This paper examines the beginnings of courses of teacher training for teachers in technical and further education in England. First the development of the technical education sector and its distinctive part-time nature is traced, alongside the activities of the three associations representing the colleges and their staffs. The views of these on…

  5. Organising, Providing and Evaluating Technical Training for Early Career Researchers: A Case Study

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    van Besouw, Rachel M.; Rogers, Katrine S.; Powles, Christopher J.; Papadopoulos, Timos; Ku, Emery M.

    2013-01-01

    This paper considers the importance of providing technical training opportunities for Early Career Researchers (ECRs) worldwide through the case study of a MATLAB training programme, which was proposed, organised, managed and evaluated by a team of five ECRs at the University of Southampton. The effectiveness of the programme in terms of the…

  6. Introducing Active Learning Pedagogy into a Technical and Vocational Education and Training Academy in Kurdistan, Iraq

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Dickson, Martina; Ladefoged, Svend Erik

    2017-01-01

    This article focuses on a teaching methodology project which investigated issues of teaching quality at a technical and vocational education and training (TVET) academy in Kurdistan, Northern Iraq. The academy was established in 2012 to provide unemployed youth with TVET, particularly workplace-relevant training. A needs analysis showed that the…

  7. Managerial Competency Needs and Training Requests: The Case of the Spanish Tourist Industry.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Agut, Sonia; Grau, Rosa

    2002-01-01

    A study analyzed the gap between required and existing management competency levels and acquired data on 80 Spanish hotel/restaurant managers' self-identified training needs. Deficits were found in 10 of 15 technical and 12 of 21 generic competencies. Managers requested training only in technical areas, not generic competencies. (Contains 42…

  8. Wisconsin Technical College System Board Equity Staff Development Workshops and Services--Phase IV. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Baldus, Lorayne

    A staff development program on gender equity was conducted for personnel in Wisconsin's technical colleges using the train-the-trainer method. The training took two approaches: a class for college personnel and career challenge training for project directors of single parent and displaced homemaker grants. The inservice class resulted in increased…

  9. Technical Writing: Past, Present and Future

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Mathes, J. C. (Compiler); Pinelli, T. E. (Compiler)

    1981-01-01

    The training of technical writers and the objectives of such education are discussed. Special emphasis was placed on the communication between technical personnel and non-technical personnel. The liabilities that affect technical writers were also discussed.

  10. 34 CFR 366.12 - How does the Secretary make an award?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... Training and Technical Assistance § 366.12 How does the Secretary make an award? (a) To be eligible to... training and technical assistance to eligible agencies, centers, and SILCs and any additional information...

  11. Minnesota Custom Training: Who Is Being Served and What Role Does Custom Training Play in the Work Environment? Findings from the Minnesota Work Environment Pilot Survey.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Minnesota State Technical Coll. System, St. Paul.

    For the past 8 years, Minnesota technical colleges have been offering customized training services to the state's employers. To gather data on what kinds of organizations use custom training (CT) programs, the State Board of Technical Colleges surveyed 600 public and private employers that had used CT services through at least one of the system's…

  12. Effectiveness evaluation of existing noise controls in a deep shaft underground mine.

    PubMed

    Lutz, Eric A; Reed, Rustin J; Turner, Dylan; Littau, Sally R; Lee, Vivien; Hu, Chengcheng

    2015-01-01

    Noise exposures and hearing loss in the mining industry continue to be a major problem, despite advances in noise control technologies. This study evaluated the effectiveness of engineering, administrative, and personal noise controls using both traditional and in-ear dosimetry by job task, work shift, and five types of earplug. The noise exposures of 22 miners performing deep shaft-sinking tasks were evaluated during 56 rotating shifts in an underground mine. Miners were earplug-insertion trained, earplug fit-tested, and monitored utilizing traditional and in-ear dosimetry. The mean TWA8 noise exposure via traditional dosimetry was 90.1 ± 8.2 dBA, while the mean in-ear TWA8 was 79.6 ± 13.8 dBA. The latter was significantly lower (p < 0.05) than the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) personal exposure limit (PEL) of 90 dBA. Dosimetry mean TWA8 noise exposures for bench blowing (103.5 ± 0.9 dBA), jumbo drill operation (103.0 ± 0.8 dBA), and mucking tasks (99.6 ± 4.7 dBA) were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than other tasks. For bench blowing, cable pulling, grinding, and jumbo drill operation tasks, the mean in-ear TWA8 was greater than 85 dBA. Those working swing shift had a significantly higher (p < 0.001) mean TWA8 noise exposure (95.4 ± 7.3 dBA) than those working day shift. For percent difference between traditional vs. in-ear dosimetry, there was no significant difference among types of earplug used. Reflective of occupational hearing loss rate trends across the mining industry, this study found that, despite existing engineering and administrative controls, noise exposure levels exceeded regulatory limits, while the addition of personal hearing protection limited excessive exposures.

  13. GKTC ACTIVITIES TO PROVIDE NUCLEAR MATERIAL PHYSICAL PROTECTION, CONTROL AND ACCOUNTING TRAINING FOR 2011-2012

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

    Romanova, Olena; Gavrilyuk, Victor I.; Kirischuk, Volodymyr

    2011-10-01

    The GKTC was created at the Kyiv Institute of Nuclear Research as a result of collaborative efforts between the United States and Ukraine. The GKTC has been designated by the Ukrainian Government to provide the MPC&A training and methodological assistance to nuclear facilities and nuclear specialists. In 2010 the GKTC has conducted the planned assessment of training needs of Ukrainian MPC&A specialists. The objective of this work is to acquire the detailed information about the number of MPC&A specialists and guard personnel, who in the coming years should receive the further advanced training. As a result of the performed trainingmore » needs evaluation the GKTC has determined that in the coming years a number of new training courses need to be developed. Some training courses are already in the process of development. Also taking into account the specific of activity on the guarding of nuclear facilities, GKTC has begun to develop the specialized training courses for the guarding unit personnel. The evaluation of needs of training of Ukrainian specialists on the physical protection shows that without the technical base of learning is not possible to satisfy the needs of Ukrainian facilities, in particular, the need for further training of specialists who maintains physical protection technical means, provides vulnerability assessment and testing of technical means. To increase the training effectiveness and create the basis for specialized training courses holding the GKTC is now working on the construction of an Interior (non-classified) Physical Protection Training Site. The objective of this site is to simulate the actual conditions of the nuclear facility PP system including the complex of engineering and technical means that will help the GKTC training course participants to consolidate the knowledge and gain the practical skills in the work with PP system engineering and technical means for more effective performance of their official duties. This paper briefly describes the practical efforts applied to the provision of physical protection specialists advanced training in Ukraine and real results on the way to implement such efforts in 2011-2012.« less

  14. 7 CFR 4284.621 - Eligible grant purposes.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... by providing technical assistance for business development and economic development planning. Grant...-county economic development planning; (5) Establish centers for training, technology, and trade that will... professional services necessary to conduct the technical assistance, training, or planning functions. (b...

  15. Assessment of training and technical assistance needs of Colorectal Cancer Control Program Grantees in the U.S.

    PubMed

    Escoffery, Cam; Hannon, Peggy; Maxwell, Annette E; Vu, Thuy; Leeman, Jennifer; Dwyer, Andrea; Mason, Caitlin; Sowles, Shaina; Rice, Ketra; Gressard, Lindsay

    2015-01-31

    Practitioners often require training and technical assistance to build their capacity to select, adapt, and implement evidence-based interventions (EBIs). The CDC Colorectal Cancer Control Program (CRCCP) aims to promote CRC screening to increase population-level screening. This study identified the training and technical assistance (TA) needs and preferences for training related to the implementation of EBIs among CRCCP grantees. Twenty-nine CRCCP grantees completed an online survey about their screening activities, training and technical assistance in 2012. They rated desire for training on various evidence-based strategies to increase cancer screening, evidence-based competencies, and program management topics. They also reported preferences for training formats and facilitators and barriers to trainings. Many CRCCP grantees expressed the need for training with regards to specific EBIs, especially system-level and provider-directed EBIs to promote CRC screening. Grantees rated these EBIs as more difficult to implement than client-oriented EBIs. Grantees also reported a moderate need for training regarding finding EBIs, assessing organizational capacity, implementing selected EBIs, and conducting process and outcome evaluations. Other desired training topics reported with higher frequency were partnership development and data collection/evaluation. Grantees preferred training formats that were interactive such as on-site trainings, webinars or expert consultants. Public health organizations need greater supports for adopting evidence-based interventions, working with organizational-level change, partnership development and data management. Future capacity building efforts for the adoption of EBIs should focus on systems or provider level interventions and key processes for health promotion and should be delivered in a variety of ways to assist local organizations in cancer prevention and control.

  16. Whys and hows of in-house writing

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Lane, J. C.

    1981-01-01

    The combining of requisite technical knowledge with requisite writing ability is addressed. Considerations in the development of in-house writing courses, in-plant training, are presented and evaluated. Specific problems in past methodology are also detailed. It is suggested that teachers of technical writing should be technical people themselves, preferably with working experience in industry or business; the training provided should be user-oriented, not theory oriented.

  17. Military Standard. Marking Technical Data Prepared by or for the Department of Defense

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1990-02-01

    Regulations f. ECCN - Export Commodity Control Number g. ED - Executive Order h. FOIA - Freedom of Information Act i. IEP - International Exchange...critical are explicitly covered in the CCL, ",, the Export Commodity Control Number ( ECCN ) reference is provided. In o~ner cases where the ECCN statement...controlling mechanism is in supplement three of the EAR. 3,7 MIL-STD-1806 APPENDIX B A listing such as " ECCN 1355A" means the technology is specifically

  18. 49 CFR 174.84 - Position in train of loaded placarded rail cars, transport vehicles, freight containers or bulk...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... moving or standing train must be next to and ahead of any car occupied by the guards or technical escorts... 49 Transportation 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Position in train of loaded placarded rail cars, transport vehicles, freight containers or bulk packagings when accompanied by guards or technical escorts...

  19. Development of a Screening Methodology for Entry into Medical Technical Training Courses. Final Report for Period October 1975-April 1977.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Leisey, Sandra A.; Guinn, Nancy

    At the request of the Air Force School of Aviation Medicine, a project was initiated to evaluate the current screening process used for entry into three medical technical training courses: Aeromedical Specialist, Environmental Health Specialist, and Physiological Training Specialist. A sample of 1,003 students were administered the General…

  20. English Language Training for Puerto Rican Navy Recruits: Evaluation of Pilot Program. Technical Report 155.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Copeland, D. Robert; And Others

    An evaluation of the effectiveness of the English language training for Navy recruits at the English Technical Language School (ETLS) in Puerto Rico is reported. The study covers the period of December 7, 1981, to September 30, 1983. It tracked Puerto Rican Army National Guard (PRANG) personnel from completion of English language training through…

  1. Modelling the Reasons for Training Choices: Technical Paper. Support Document

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Smith, Andrew; Oczkowski, Eddie; Hill, Mark

    2009-01-01

    This report provides the technical details on the modelling aspects of identifying significant drivers for the reasons for using certain types of training and for the choice of training types. The employed data is from the 2005 Survey of Employer Use and Views of the VET system (SEUV). The data has previously been analysed in NCVER (2006). This…

  2. National Planning of Vocational and Technical Training. Colombo Plan Seminar. (Thimphu, Bhutan, April 19-22, 1976)

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Colombo Plan Bureau (Sri Lanka).

    Focusing on the last in a series of seven seminars conducted by the Colombo Plan Bureau between 1969 and 1975 on the theme, "National Planning of Vocational and Technical Training," this report presents the proceedings of a seminar on the vocational education and training needs of one of the Colombo Plan members, Bhutan. Five working…

  3. [Otoacoustic emissions of full-term and preterm neonates].

    PubMed

    Kashiwamura, M; Ohwatari, R; Satoh, N; Kawanami, M; Chida, E; Sakamoto, T; Fukuda, S; Inuyama, Y

    1996-01-01

    Transiently evoked otoacoustic emission (TEOAE), distortion product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE), and spontaneous otoacoustic emission (SOAE) were measured in 45 full-term neonates (68 ears) and 12 preterm neonates (20 ears) with ILO88 & 92. Measurements were performed in the nursery of the obstetrics ward or NICU (not sound proof room) under natural sleeping condition after nursing. No sedating agent was used. TEOAEs were rated "good response" in 61 (89.7%) of 68 full-term neonate ears. DPOAEs were rated "good response" in 40 (71.4%) of 56 full-term neonate ears. SOAEs were detectable in 25 (62.5%) of 40 full-term neonate ears. Considering the high positive rate of TEOAE in full-term neonates and the easy and noninvasive method of measurement, we concluded that TEOAE is useful for auditory screening in neonates. There was failure to detect TEOAEs in 7 ears and the measurements were all performed within 6 days after birth. Some reports claim that residual amnion in the external auditory canal or the middle ear in the first few days after birth causes slight hearing loss. Thus, we expected that making the measurements more than 7 days after birth might yield higher "good response" rates. We sometimes found that the Total Echo Powers of TEOAEs were reduced by the poor condition of the ear probe. Thus, we must be very careful in regard to this technical problem in order to perform accurate examinations. Because of its lower "good response" rate, DPOAE was not as useful for screening as TEOAE. Because of the movements or respiratory noises of the newborn infants, it was hard to detect reliable DPOAEs, particularly in the low frequency range. On the other hand, because of its frequency specificity, particurally at high frequencies, DPOAE will be useful for detecting the partial hearing impairment such as congenital high-tone hearing impairment. It would be difficult to use SOAE as a clinical test. Because it is not an evoked response, its mechanism of generation is not well understood. We expect that following longitudinal changes in SOAE in neonates may yield some information about it. We measured mainly TEOAE in preterm neonates because we had to complete the measurements as soon as possible. High Total Echo Powers of TEOAEs were recorded in most infants over 38 weeks of PCA (post conceptional age). The earliest case showed reliable TEOAE at 35 weeks PCA. In most cases that could be measured twice on different days, the Total Echo Powers of TEOAE, were higher in the second time. We therefore concluded that TEOAE might serve as an examination for monitoring the maturation of preterm neonate hearing.

  4. The Training, Retention, and Assessment of Digital Skills: A Review and Integration of the Literature

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2006-11-01

    Staff, G1 Authorized and approved for distribution: STANLEY M. HALPIN MICHELLE SAMS Acting Technical Director Acting Director Technical review by...research has found some benefit for spacing practice for motor skills. In an investigation of fuel and electrical repairers who were trained to test... electrical alternators using either massed or spaced training, the spaced training group made 40% fewer errors and took half the time to complete the tasks

  5. Cognitive skills training in digital era: A paradigm shift in surgical education using the TaTME model.

    PubMed

    Knol, Joep; Keller, Deborah S

    2018-04-30

    Surgical competence is a complex, multifactorial process, requiring ample time and training. Optimal training is based on acquiring knowledge and psychomotor and cognitive skills. Practicing surgical skills is one of the most crucial tasks for both the novice surgeon learning new procedures and surgeons already in practice learning new techniques. Focus is placed on teaching traditional technical skills, but the importance of cognitive skills cannot be underestimated. Cognitive skills allow recognizing environmental cues to improve technical performance including situational awareness, mental readiness, risk assessment, anticipating problems, decision-making, adaptation, and flexibility, and may also accelerate the trainee's understanding of a procedure, formalize the steps being practiced, and reduce the overall training time to become technically proficient. The introduction and implementation of the transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) into practice may be the best demonstration of this new model of teaching and training, including pre-training, course attendance, and post-course guidance on technical and cognitive skills. To date, the TaTME framework has been the ideal model for structured training to ensure safe implementation. Further development of metrics to grade successful learning and assessment of long term outcomes with the new pathway will confirm the success of this training model. Copyright © 2018 Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (Scottish charity number SC005317) and Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. All rights reserved.

  6. Training Manuals and Technical Publications.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Army Test and Evaluation Command, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD.

    The objective of the Materiel Test Procedure is to describe methods for determining the need for adequacy of comprehensiveness, and clarity of training manuals and technical publications (or other pertinent types of literature) relating to the ammunition or ammunition components being tested. (Author)

  7. 78 FR 41812 - Office of the Secretary of Transportation

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-07-11

    ... portfolio. 3. Provide a minimum of 20 hours of individual or group counseling sessions to small businesses... technical assistance, business training programs, business assessment, management training, counseling... activities such as information dissemination, small business counseling, and technical assistance with small...

  8. Australia: A New Technical Teacher College

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Senior, R. L.

    1969-01-01

    A new technical teacher college will open its doors in Hawthorn, Victoria, in January 1970. R.L. Senior, Inspector of Technical Schools, describes the development of technical teacher training in the State. (Editor)

  9. Effectiveness of Group Training of Assertiveness on Social Anxiety among Deaf and Hard of Hearing Adolescents.

    PubMed

    Ahmadi, Hamed; Daramadi, Parviz Sharifi; Asadi-Samani, Majid; Givtaj, Hamed; Sani, Mohammad Reza Mahmoudian

    2017-06-01

    The present study was conducted to compare the effectiveness of assertiveness group training on social anxiety (SAD) between deaf and hearing impaired adolescents. Forty eight (24 deaf and 24 hearing impaired) people participated in this study. First, participants with SAD, i.e. attaining the scores above 40 for Connor's Social Inventory Scale 2000 (SPIN), were selected according to convenience sampling and randomly assigned to two groups, i.e. intervention and control. Then, assertiveness group training was conducted for intervention group within 10 sessions, and immediately after completion of the training sessions, SPIN was re-administered to the two groups. ANCOVA showed that the effectiveness of assertiveness group training on SAD is different between deaf and hearing impaired participants, i.e. assertiveness group training was effective on improvement of SAD in hearing impaired participants but not deaf ones. Therefore, it is recommended to incorporate assertiveness group training in the educational programs developed for adolescents with ear disorders especially hearing impairment.

  10. The Listening Ear: The Development of Speech as a Creative Influence in Education (Learning Resource Series).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    McAllen, Audrey E.

    This book gives teachers an understanding of speech training through specially selected exercises. The book's exercises aim to help develop clear speaking in the classroom. Methodically and perceptively used, the book will assist those concerned with the creative powers of speech as a teaching art. In Part 1, there are sections on the links…

  11. An Experimental Analysis of Some Procedures to Teach Priming and Reinforcement Skills to Preschool Teachers.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Thomson, Carolyn L.; And Others

    1978-01-01

    Reports the results of teaching preschool teachers to use priming and reinforcement to increase the desired behaviors of their children. Five teacher-training techniques were examined: (1) written assignments, (2) feedback from viewing graphs, (3) on-the-spot feedback from a wireless radio (Bug-in-the-Ear), (4) feedback from an observer, and (5)…

  12. An evaluation of client satisfaction with training programs and technical assistance provided by Florida's Coordinated School Health Program Office.

    PubMed

    Weiler, R M; Pigg, R M

    2000-11-01

    Client or customer satisfaction surveys assess the perceived quality of programs, products, services, and employee performance. Such assessments prove beneficial for evaluation and planning purposes. This survey examined the satisfaction of clients using the programs, services, and technical assistance provided through the Coordinated School Health Program Office (CSHPO) in the Florida Department of Education. Using the 42-item Client Satisfaction Survey, data were collected in summer 1999 from 300 of 574 clients (52.3%) who attended training sessions or sought technical assistance from CSHPO during 1996-1999. More than two-thirds (67.2%) of clients rated the training program as "very good" or "excellent" at increasing their understanding about the concept of a coordinated school health program. Overall, 69.7% of clients rated the training programs they attended as "very good" or "excellent." Resource materials and staff effectiveness rated positively as well. Findings confirmed client satisfaction with CSHPO's training programs, technical assistance, and staff. Information obtained through the client satisfaction survey can be used by CSHPO to assist in future program planning and resource allocations.

  13. Dogs' Body Language Relevant to Learning Achievement.

    PubMed

    Hasegawa, Masashi; Ohtani, Nobuyo; Ohta, Mitsuaki

    2014-02-27

    The facial expressions and body postures of dogs can give helpful information about their moods and emotional states. People can more effectively obedience train their dogs if we can identify the mannerisms associated with learning in dogs. The aim of this study was to clarify the dog's body language during operant conditioning to predict achievement in the test that followed by measuring the duration of behaviors. Forty-six untrained dogs (17 males and 26 females) of various breeds were used. Each session consisted of 5 minutes of training with a treat reward followed by 3 minutes of rest and finally an operant conditioning test that consisted of 20 "hand motion" cues. The operant tests were conducted a total of nine times over three consecutive days, and the success numbers were counted. The duration of the dog's behavior, focusing on the dog's eyes, mouth, ears, tail and tail-wagging, was recorded during the operant conditioning sessions before the test. Particular behaviors, including wide-eyes, closed mouth, erect ears, and forward and high tail carriage, without wagging or with short and quick wagging, related to high achievement results. It is concluded that dogs' body language during operant conditioning was related to their success rate.

  14. Training situational awareness to reduce surgical errors in the operating room.

    PubMed

    Graafland, M; Schraagen, J M C; Boermeester, M A; Bemelman, W A; Schijven, M P

    2015-01-01

    Surgical errors result from faulty decision-making, misperceptions and the application of suboptimal problem-solving strategies, just as often as they result from technical failure. To date, surgical training curricula have focused mainly on the acquisition of technical skills. The aim of this review was to assess the validity of methods for improving situational awareness in the surgical theatre. A search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library and PsycINFO using predefined inclusion criteria, up to June 2014. All study types were considered eligible. The primary endpoint was validity for improving situational awareness in the surgical theatre at individual or team level. Nine articles were considered eligible. These evaluated surgical team crisis training in simulated environments for minimally invasive surgery (4) and open surgery (3), and training courses focused at training non-technical skills (2). Two studies showed that simulation-based surgical team crisis training has construct validity for assessing situational awareness in surgical trainees in minimally invasive surgery. None of the studies showed effectiveness of surgical crisis training on situational awareness in open surgery, whereas one showed face validity of a 2-day non-technical skills training course. To improve safety in the operating theatre, more attention to situational awareness is needed in surgical training. Few structured curricula have been developed and validation research remains limited. Strategies to improve situational awareness can be adopted from other industries. © 2014 BJS Society Ltd. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  15. Simulation center training as a means to improve resident performance in percutaneous noncontinuous CT-guided fluoroscopic procedures with dose reduction.

    PubMed

    Mendiratta-Lala, Mishal; Williams, Todd R; Mendiratta, Vivek; Ahmed, Hafeez; Bonnett, John W

    2015-04-01

    The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a multifaceted simulation-based resident training for CT-guided fluoroscopic procedures by measuring procedural and technical skills, radiation dose, and procedure times before and after simulation training. A prospective analysis included 40 radiology residents and eight staff radiologists. Residents took an online pretest to assess baseline procedural knowledge. Second-through fourth-year residents' baseline technical skills with a procedural phantom were evaluated. First-through third-year residents then underwent formal didactic and simulation-based procedural and technical training with one of two interventional radiologists and followed the training with 1 month of supervised phantom-based practice. Thereafter, residents underwent final written and practical examinations. The practical examination included essential items from a 20-point checklist, including site and side marking, consent, time-out, and sterile technique along with a technical skills portion assessing pedal steps, radiation dose, needle redirects, and procedure time. The results indicated statistically significant improvement in procedural and technical skills after simulation training. For residents, the median number of pedal steps decreased by three (p=0.001), median dose decreased by 15.4 mGy (p<0.001), median procedure time decreased by 4.0 minutes (p<0.001), median number of needle redirects decreased by 1.0 (p=0.005), and median number of 20-point checklist items successfully completed increased by three (p<0.001). The results suggest that procedural skills can be acquired and improved by simulation-based training of residents, regardless of experience. CT simulation training decreases procedural time, decreases radiation dose, and improves resident efficiency and confidence, which may transfer to clinical practice with improved patient care and safety.

  16. Validation of a structured training and assessment curriculum for technical skill acquisition in minimally invasive surgery: a randomized controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Palter, Vanessa N; Orzech, Neil; Reznick, Richard K; Grantcharov, Teodor P

    2013-02-01

    : To develop and validate an ex vivo comprehensive curriculum for a basic laparoscopic procedure. : Although simulators have been well validated as tools to teach technical skills, their integration into comprehensive curricula is lacking. Moreover, neither the effect of ex vivo training on learning curves in the operating room (OR), nor the effect on nontechnical proficiency has been investigated. : This randomized single-blinded prospective trial allocated 20 surgical trainees to a structured training and assessment curriculum (STAC) group or conventional residency training. The STAC consisted of case-based learning, proficiency-based virtual reality training, laparoscopic box training, and OR participation. After completion of the intervention, all participants performed 5 sequential laparoscopic cholecystectomies in the OR. The primary outcome measure was the difference in technical performance between the 2 groups during the first laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Secondary outcome measures included differences with respect to learning curves in the OR, technical proficiency of each sequential laparoscopic cholecystectomy, and nontechnical skills. : Residents in the STAC group outperformed residents in the conventional group in the first (P = 0.004), second (P = 0.036), third (P = 0.021), and fourth (P = 0.023) laparoscopic cholecystectomies. The conventional group demonstrated a significant learning curve in the OR (P = 0.015) in contrast to the STAC group (P = 0.032). Residents in the STAC group also had significantly higher nontechnical skills (P = 0.027). : Participating in the STAC shifted the learning curve for a basic laparoscopic procedure from the operating room into the simulation laboratory. STAC-trained residents had superior technical proficiency in the OR and nontechnical skills compared with conventionally trained residents. (The study registration ID is NCT01560494.).

  17. Successful engagement: CBM's holistic approach to the work in the area of ear care, deafness, hard of hearing and deafblindness.

    PubMed

    Tesni, Sian; Santana-Hernández, Diego

    2014-09-01

    CBM is an international Christian development organisation, committed to improving the quality of life of persons with disabilities in disadvantaged societies. CBM aims at achieving this in partnership with local organisations and in cooperation with stakeholders at regional and international levels. This article aims at sharing CBM's holistic approach for successful engagement in the work area of ear care, deafness, hard of hearing and deafblindness. Review of CBM supporting documents, including strategies, position papers, technical guidelines, criteria of success and information related to partners, centres of excellence and model projects. Description of how partner programmes use participatory methods of planning and implementation, involving persons with disabilities and the community. Recommendations on how to develop national or sub-national strategies to impact the lives, and advocate with governments for the rights and inclusion, of persons with disabilities. CBM's holistic approach to work in the area of ear care; deafness; hard of hearing and deafblindness includes intervention at all levels of health care provision, Education, CBR and Audiological, Speech Therapy and other interdisciplinary services. This article presents CBM's core principles and shares specific strategic planning and results, together with lessons learnt while searching a sustainable engagement for field work. Rehabilitation, in its widest conception, should be approached as a multidisciplinary strategy, and developed in close cooperation with other local, national and international agencies. CBM is positioned in a strategic point from where it can play a key role in the facilitation of an international forum for agencies and stakeholders to reach a consensus to decrease the burden of ear disease and hearing loss, through early intervention and re/habilitation.

  18. Developing technical expertise in emergency medicine--the role of simulation in procedural skill acquisition.

    PubMed

    Wang, Ernest E; Quinones, Joshua; Fitch, Michael T; Dooley-Hash, Suzanne; Griswold-Theodorson, Sharon; Medzon, Ron; Korley, Frederick; Laack, Torrey; Robinett, Adam; Clay, Lamont

    2008-11-01

    Developing technical expertise in medical procedures is an integral component of emergency medicine (EM) practice and training. This article is the work of an expert panel composed of members from the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine (SAEM) Interest Group, the SAEM Technology in Medical Education Committee, and opinions derived from the May 2008 Academic Emergency Medicine Consensus Conference, "The Science of Simulation in Healthcare." The writing group reviewed the simulation literature on procedures germane to EM training, virtual reality training, and instructional learning theory as it pertains to skill acquisition and procedural skills decay. The authors discuss the role of simulation in teaching technical expertise, identify training conditions that lead to effective learning, and provide recommendations for future foci of research.

  19. Fitting of hearing aids with different technical parameters to a patient with dead regions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hojan-Jezierska, Dorota; Skrodzka, Ewa

    2009-01-01

    The purpose of the study was to determine an optimal hearing aid fitting procedure for a patient with well diagnosed high-frequency ‘dead regions’ in both cochleas. The patient reported non-symmetrical hearing problems of sensorineural origin. For binaural amplification two similar independent hearing aids were used as well as a pair of dependent devices with an ear-to-ear function. Two fitting methods were used: DSLi/o and NAL-NL1, and four different strategies of fitting were tested: the initial fitting based on the DSLi/o or NAL-NL1 method with necessary loudness corrections, the second fitting taking into account all the available functions of hearing instruments, the third fitting (based on the second one) but with significantly reduced amplification well above one octave of frequency inside dead region, and the final fitting with significantly reduced gain slightly below one octave inside dead regions. The results of hearing aids fitting were assessed using an APHAB procedure.

  20. Development of a digital hearing aid to meet the Brazilian Government's Ordinance 587 (APAC).

    PubMed

    Penteado, Silvio Pires; Bento, Ricardo Ferreira

    2010-01-01

    The treatment of sensorineural hearing loss is based on hearing aids, also known as individual sound amplification devices. The hearing aids purchased by the Brazilian Government, aiming at fulfilling public policies, are based on dedicated components, which bring about benefits, but also render them expensive and may impair repair services after manufacture's warranty expires. to design digital behind-the-ear hearing aids built from standardized components coming from the very supply chain of these manufacturers. experimental. to identify the supply chain of these manufacturers, request samples and set up hearing aids in the laboratory. The developed hearing aids did not show lesser electroacoustic characteristics when compared to those acquired by the Government, also being tested by the same reference international technical standard. It is possible to develop digital behind-the-ear hearing aids based on off-the-shelf components from hearing aid manufacturers' supply chain. Their advantages include low operational costs - for acquisition (with clear advantages for the Government) and service (advantage for the patient).

  1. Introduction of Core Based Subjects in the Curriculum of Technical and Vocational Institutions in Ghana: Assessment of Its Effect on Practical Training Sessions

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    William, Otu

    2015-01-01

    Technical education among other things focuses on training the skill manpower needs of the youth in most countries of which Ghana is no exception. This study looks at Ghana Education Service technical and vocational sector reform programme introduced in 2010 with emphasis on the introduction of compulsory core based subjects and its effect on…

  2. Strategy-Based Technical Instruction: Development and Evaluation

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1988-08-01

    scripts dependant on target tasks and the outcomes desired, and to the use of node-link knowledge maps as communications props. In addition, we have...information "on the job" - communicate with others in the task environment; - monitor, diagnose, and correct problems associated with critical tasks... communicated . Technical Training Goals The individual in a technical training scenario is expected to achieve a wide variety of goals. These goals can

  3. Non-technical skills training to enhance patient safety.

    PubMed

    Gordon, Morris

    2013-06-01

      Patient safety is an increasingly recognised issue in health care. Systems-based and organisational methods of quality improvement, as well as education focusing on key clinical areas, are common, but there are few reports of educational interventions that focus on non-technical skills to address human factor sources of error. A flexible model for non-technical skills training for health care professionals has been designed based on the best available evidence, and with sound theoretical foundations.   Educational sessions to improve non-technical skills in health care have been described before. The descriptions lack the details to allow educators to replicate and innovate further.   A non-technical skills training course that can be delivered as either a half- or full-day intervention has been designed and delivered to a number of mixed groups of undergraduate medical students and doctors in postgraduate training. Participant satisfaction has been high and patient safety attitudes have improved post-intervention.   This non-technical skills educational intervention has been built on a sound evidence base, and is described so as to facilitate replication and dissemination. With the key themes laid out, clinical educators will be able to build interventions focused on numerous clinical issues that pay attention to human factor contributors to safety. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  4. Cross-Cultural HRD. Symposium.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    2002

    The first of three papers from this symposium on cross-cultural human resource development (HRD), "Determinants of Supply of Technical Training Opportunities for Human Capital Development in Kenya" (Moses Waithanji Ngware, Fredrick Muyia Nafukho) reports findings from interviews of technical training institute department heads in Kenya…

  5. Assessing Technical Training Needs.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Schwaller, Anthony E.; Slipy, Dave

    1985-01-01

    Describes the results of a joint project of St. Cloud State University (Minnesota) and DeZURIK Corporation (a manufacturer and distributor of industrial valves) which developed and implemented a technical training needs questionnaire for use with the company's employees. Student involvement in the process is noted. (MBR)

  6. Vocational Training for Economic Development: A Report on Business/Industry Relationships with Kansas Community Colleges and Area Vocational-Technical Schools, 1990-91 Academic Year.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kansas State Board of Education, Topeka. Lifelong Learning Div.

    In order to provide educational opportunities for entry into and advancement within the work force, Kansas' 19 public community colleges and 14 area vocational technical schools (AVTSs) have expanded their offerings to include customized training for businesses and industries within Kansas. Vocational training is also supported by the Kansas…

  7. Department of Energy Actions Necessary to Improve DOE’s Training Program

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1999-02-01

    assessments, the Department has completed analyses and implemented training programs for the defense nuclear facilities technical workforce and...certification standards, such as those examined by the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board in its reviews of Department operations, impose... nuclear facilities will have their technical skills assessed and will receive continuing training to maintain certain necessary skills. Page 17 GAO/RCED

  8. A Proposed Modified Technical Order System and Its Impact on Maintenance, Personnel and Training. Final Report for Period December 1974-September 1975.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Foley, John P., Jr.

    The document presents immediate and long range plans for the systematic injection of Symbolic Integrated Maintenance Systems (SIMS) and Fully Proceduralized Job Performance Aids (FPJPA) materials into the current technical order system and the inclusion of job-oriented training matched to FPJPA into the training system of the Air Force. The text…

  9. REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR OF A SHORT COURSE FOR SECONDARY SCHOOL COUNSELORS ON VOCATIONAL AND TECHNICAL TRAINING AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    CHARLTON, HUEY E.

    A 6-WEEK TRAINING PROGRAM WAS CONDUCTED FOR SECONDARY SCHOOL COUNSELORS ON VOCATIONAL AND TECHNICAL TRAINING AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES. THE PROGRAM WAS DESIGNED TO FOCUS UPON THE PROBLEM OF EMPLOYMENT FACED BY YOUNG PEOPLE WHO ENTER THE LABOR MARKET PRIOR TO AND IMMEDIATELY AFTER COMPLETION OF HIGH SCHOOL. THE INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAM CONSISTED OF…

  10. iPhone otoscopes: Currently available, but reliable for tele-otoscopy in the hands of parents?

    PubMed

    Shah, Manan Udayan; Sohal, Maheep; Valdez, Tulio A; Grindle, Christopher R

    2018-03-01

    Tele-otoscopy has been validated for tympanostomy surveillance and remote diagnosis when images are recorded by trained professionals. The CellScope iPhone Otoscope is a device that may be used for tele-otoscopy and it enables parents to record their children's ear examinations and send the films for remote physician diagnosis. This study aims to determine the ability to diagnose, and the reliability of the diagnosis when utilizing video exams obtained by a parent versus video exams obtained by an otolaryngologist. Parents of children ages 17 years or younger attempted recordings of the tympanic membrane of their children with the CellScope after a video tutorial; a physician subsequently used the device to record the same ear. Recordings occurred prior to standard pediatric otolaryngology office evaluation. Later, a remote pediatric otolaryngologist attempted diagnosis solely based on the videos, blinded to whether the examination was filmed by a parent or physician. Interrater reliability between video diagnosis and original diagnosis on pneumatic otoscopy was measured, and objective tympanic membrane landmarks visualized on the films were recorded. Eighty ears were enrolled and recorded. There was low interrater agreement (k = 0.42) between diagnosis based on parent videos as compared with pneumatic otoscopy. There was high agreement (k = 0.71) between diagnosis based on physician videos and pneumatic otoscopy. Physician videos and parent videos had only slight agreement on objective landmarks identified (k = 0.087). iPhone otoscopy provides reliable tele-otoscopy images in when used by trained professionals but, currently, images obtained by parents are not suitable for use in diagnosis. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  11. PubMed Central

    Farneti, P.; Cantore, S.; Macrì, G.; Chuchueva, N.; Cuffaro, L.; Pasquini, L.; Puxeddu, R.

    2017-01-01

    SUMMARY Obstructive sialadenitis is the most common non-neoplastic disease of the salivary glands, and sialendoscopy is increasingly used in both diagnosis and treatment, associated in selected cases with endoscopic laser lithotripsy. Sialendoscopy is also used for combined minimally invasive external and endoscopic approaches in patients with larger and proximal stones that would require excessively long laser procedures. The present paper reports on the technical experience from the Ear, Nose and Throat Unit of the Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital of Bologna, and from the Department of Otorhinolaryngology of the University Hospital of Cagliari, Italy, including the retrospective analysis of the endoscopic and endoscopic assisted procedures performed on 48 patients (26 females and 22 males; median age 45.3; range 8-83 years) treated for chronic obstructive sialadenitis at the University Hospital of Cagliari from November 2010 to April 2016. The results from the Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital of Bologna have been previously published. The technical aspects of sialendoscopy are carefully described. The retrospective analysis of the University Hospital of Cagliari shows that the disease was unilateral in 40 patients and bilateral in 8; a total of 56 major salivary glands were treated (22 submandibular glands and 34 parotids). Five patients underwent bilateral sialendoscopy for juvenile recurrent parotitis. 10 patients were treated for non-lithiasic obstructive disease. In 33 patients (68.75%) the obstruction was caused by salivary stones (bilateral parotid lithiasis in 1 case). Only 8 patients needed a sialectomy (5 submandibular glands and 3 parotids). The conservative approach to obstructive sialadenitis is feasible and can be performed either purely endoscopically or in a combined modality, with a high percentage of success. The procedure must be performed with dedicated instrumentation by a skilled surgeon after proper training since minor to major complications can be encountered. Sialectomy should be the "extrema ratio" after failure of a conservative approach. PMID:28516972

  12. 41 CFR 105-50.001-5 - Specialized or technical services.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ..., technical tests and evaluations, technical information, training activities, surveys, reports, documents... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Specialized or technical... TECHNICAL SERVICES TO STATE AND LOCAL UNITS OF GOVERNMENT § 105-50.001-5 Specialized or technical services...

  13. Multi-region statistical shape model for cochlear implantation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Romera, Jordi; Kjer, H. Martin; Piella, Gemma; Ceresa, Mario; González Ballester, Miguel A.

    2016-03-01

    Statistical shape models are commonly used to analyze the variability between similar anatomical structures and their use is established as a tool for analysis and segmentation of medical images. However, using a global model to capture the variability of complex structures is not enough to achieve the best results. The complexity of a proper global model increases even more when the amount of data available is limited to a small number of datasets. Typically, the anatomical variability between structures is associated to the variability of their physiological regions. In this paper, a complete pipeline is proposed for building a multi-region statistical shape model to study the entire variability from locally identified physiological regions of the inner ear. The proposed model, which is based on an extension of the Point Distribution Model (PDM), is built for a training set of 17 high-resolution images (24.5 μm voxels) of the inner ear. The model is evaluated according to its generalization ability and specificity. The results are compared with the ones of a global model built directly using the standard PDM approach. The evaluation results suggest that better accuracy can be achieved using a regional modeling of the inner ear.

  14. Psychosocial outcome of patients after ear reconstruction: a retrospective study of 62 patients.

    PubMed

    Horlock, Nigel; Vögelin, Esther; Bradbury, Eileen T; Grobbelaar, Adriaan O; Gault, David T

    2005-05-01

    This was a retrospective study examining the psychosocial morbidity of patients before and after ear reconstruction. Semistructured questionnaires were sent to 90 patents with significant congenital or acquired auricular deformity 2.2 years (range 3 months to 5 years) following autogenous or osteointegrated reconstruction. Sixty-two patients (69%) responded. Twenty-two of the patients below 12 years, who had undergone reconstructive surgery, also completed the Childhood Experience Questionnaire. These were compared with a cohort of 362 normal patients. There was significant psychosocial morbidity in both children and adults with auricular deformity. Seventy-one percent of patients reported reduced self-confidence that affected both social life and leisure activity. Teasing was a prominent symptom in both children (88%) and adults (85%) but was a motivational factor for surgery in children only. Dissatisfaction with the appearance (73.1%), on the other hand, was the main reason for treatment in adults. Following ear reconstruction, 74% of adults and 91% of children reported an improvement in self-confidence resulting in enhanced social life and leisure activities in both adults and children. There was no difference between osteointegrated and autogenous reconstruction. Sixty percent of patients reported their result as excellent. The patients scored their result better than the surgeon. We conclude that auricular reconstruction has significant psychosocial benefit in the majority of children and adults despite donor-site morbidity and a range of technical result.

  15. Mentoring SFRM: A New Approach to International Space Station Flight Control Training

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Huning, Therese; Barshi, Immanuel; Schmidt, Lacey

    2009-01-01

    The Mission Operations Directorate (MOD) of the Johnson Space Center is responsible for providing continuous operations support for the International Space Station (ISS). Operations support requires flight controllers who are skilled in team performance as well as the technical operations of the ISS. Space Flight Resource Management (SFRM), a NASA adapted variant of Crew Resource Management (CRM), is the competency model used in the MOD. ISS flight controller certification has evolved to include a balanced focus on development of SFRM and technical expertise. The latest challenge the MOD faces is how to certify an ISS flight controller (Operator) to a basic level of effectiveness in 1 year. SFRM training uses a twopronged approach to expediting operator certification: 1) imbed SFRM skills training into all Operator technical training and 2) use senior flight controllers as mentors. This paper focuses on how the MOD uses senior flight controllers as mentors to train SFRM skills.

  16. Auditory integration training for children with autism: no behavioral benefits detected.

    PubMed

    Mudford, O C; Cross, B A; Breen, S; Cullen, C; Reeves, D; Gould, J; Douglas, J

    2000-03-01

    Auditory integration training and a control treatment were provided for 16 children with autism in a crossover experimental design. Measures, blind to treatment order, included parent and teacher ratings of behavior, direct observational recordings, IQ, language, and social/adaptive tests. Significant differences tended to show that the control condition was superior on parent-rated measures of hyperactivity and on direct observational measures of ear-occlusion. No differences were detected on teacher-rated measures. Children's IQs and language comprehension did not increase, but adaptive/social behavior scores and expressive language quotients decreased. The majority of parents (56%) were unable to report in retrospect when their child had received auditory integration training. No individual child was identified as benefiting clinically or educationally from the treatment.

  17. 32 CFR 901.14 - Regular airmen category.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... application package from the technical training center CBPO to USAFA/RRS includes the following information on... National Defense Department of Defense (Continued) DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE MILITARY TRAINING AND.... Applicants not selected are reassigned on Academy notification to the CBPO. Applicants to technical school...

  18. 7 CFR 4280.21 - Eligible REDG Ultimate Recipients and Projects.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... eligible entities to provide medical training and related professional health care skills to rural health... facilitate medical or educational services or job training; or (6) Project feasibility studies and Technical Assistance. A qualified Independent Provider must perform feasibility studies or Technical Assistance. (b...

  19. Development and implementation of a technical and didactical training program for student tutors in the dissection course.

    PubMed

    Shiozawa, Thomas; Hirt, Bernhard; Celebi, Nora; Baur, Friederike; Weyrich, Peter; Lammerding-Köppel, Maria

    2010-12-20

    student tutors have a long tradition in gross anatomy instruction. However, the full potential of the tutors is generally not tapped, since little attention is paid to their technical and didactical training. The aim of this paper is to report a systematic approach to the development, didactic reasoning and implementation of a curriculum for training student tutors in gross anatomy. the training program was developed using the six-step approach of Kern's curriculum development model. For needs assessment, the literature research was amended by a survey among the 1st and 2nd year students of the dissection course (n=167) and two independent 90 min focus group interviews with the tutors who supervised these students (n=15). Protocols were transcribed and analyzed by margin coding. The training curriculum was setup on the basis of these data. corresponding to the literature, the students want student tutors with good teaching competence as well as adequate content knowledge and technical competence. Supporting that, the tutors request a training program enhancing their didactic skills as well as their knowledge of content and working using relevant methods. Thus, a combined didactic and professional training program has been developed. Six professional and 11 didactic learning objectives were defined. A 3 weeks training curriculum was implemented, using microteaching and group exercises for didactics and active dissection for technical training. Both parts were interlocked on a contextual and practical level. our focus group analyses revealed that a specific training program for student tutors in the dissection course is necessary. We describe a feasible task-oriented training curriculum combining didactic and professional objectives. 2010. Published by Elsevier GmbH.

  20. The Top Training Priorities for 2003.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hall, Brandon

    2003-01-01

    A survey of 222 training professionals identified current training priorities: soft skills training; technical training; enhancing the quality of training; business skills; business alignment, business impact, and return on investment; online learning; sales training; safety and compliance training; performance management; and human…

  1. [Auditory training with wide-band white noise: effects on the recruitment (III)].

    PubMed

    Domínguez Ugidos, L J; Rodríguez Morejón, C; Vallés Varela, H; Iparraguirre Bolinaga, V; Knaster del Olmo, J

    2001-05-01

    The auditory training with wide-band white noise is a methodology for the qualitative recovery of the hearing loss in people suffering from sensorineural hearing loss. It is based on the application of a wide-band white modified noise. In a prospective study, we have assessed the modifications of the recruitment coefficient in a sample of 48 patients who have followed a program of 15 auditory training with wide-band white noise sessions. The average improvement of the recruitment coefficient expressed in percentage is a 7.7498%, which comes up to 23.5249% in the case of a binaural recruitment coefficient. From our results, it can be deduced that the auditory training with wide-band white noise reduces the recruitment. That is to say, the decrease of the recruitment in high intensities both binaurally and in all ears.

  2. The VOICES/VOCES success story: effective strategies for training, technical assistance and community-based organization implementation.

    PubMed

    Hamdallah, Myriam; Vargo, Sue; Herrera, Jennifer

    2006-08-01

    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Diffusion of Effective Behavioral Interventions (DEBI) project successfully disseminated VOICES/VOCES, a brief video-based HIV risk reduction intervention targeting African American and Latino heterosexual men and women at risk for HIV infection. Elements of the dissemination strategy included a comprehensive and user-friendly intervention kit, comprising (a) an implementationmanual and othermaterials necessary for conducting the intervention (b) a Training of Facilitators (TOF) curriculum used to teach agency staff how to implement the EBI in their setting, (c) a network of expert trainers who attend a training institute to become adept at using the TOF curriculum to train facilitators, (d) a comprehensive training coordination center to plan and deliver TOF trainings, (e) proactive technical assistance to trainers, and (f) post-TOF technical assistance for local implementers. This article reports on those strategies and a local CBO's successful participation in DEBI, resulting implementation of VOICES/VOCES, with unique approaches to adaptation and tailoring.

  3. 13 CFR 306.2 - Award requirements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... TRAINING, RESEARCH AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE INVESTMENTS Local and National Technical Assistance § 306.2 Award requirements. EDA selects Projects for Local and National Technical Assistance Investments in...

  4. Complications after Total Porous Implant Ear Reconstruction and Their Management.

    PubMed

    Lewin, Sheryl

    2015-12-01

    Microtia reconstruction using porous polyethylene implants has become an established alternative to autologous costal cartilage techniques. Few surgeons are trained in porous implant ear reconstruction (PIER), leading to a relative lack of understanding of the nuances of this type of surgery. The risks of exposure, infection, and fracture of the implant have further discouraged surgeons from performing PIERs. Meticulous technique and proper management of complications are critical to the success of surgeries involving porous implants (Medpor, Su-Por). There are a limited number of articles in the literature that report the management of complications of porous implant auricular reconstruction. The purpose of this work is to present a comprehensive review of the management of complications with PIER based on over 10 years of experience with this surgical technique. Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

  5. Performance/Design Requirements and Detailed Technical Description for a Computer-Directed Training Subsystem for Integration into the Air Force Phase II Base Level System.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Butler, A. K.; And Others

    The performance/design requirements and a detailed technical description for a Computer-Directed Training Subsystem to be integrated into the Air Force Phase II Base Level System are described. The subsystem may be used for computer-assisted lesson construction and has presentation capability for on-the-job training for data automation, staff, and…

  6. Specifying Skill-Based Training Strategies and Devices: A Model Description

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1990-06-01

    Technical Report 897 Specifying Skill-Based Training N Strategies and Devices: A Model Description I Paui J. Sticha and Mark Schlager Human Resources...unlimied 90 ’ Technical Report 897 Specifying Skill-Based Training Strategies and Devices: A Model Description Paul J. Sticha and Mark Schlager Human...SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF THIS PAGE Form Approved REPORT DOCUMENTATION PAGE FMNo o7 ote la. REPORT SECURITY CLASSIFICATION lb. RESTRICTWE MARKINGS

  7. Analysis of the Relationships of the Selection of Applicants for Retraining Schools at James Connally Technical Institute and Success in Gaining Training-Related Employment and a Salary Increase.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kuntz, Elmer Lee

    Relationships were investigated between (1) General Aptitude Test Battery scores and trainee selection criteria in a manpower training program at the James Connally Technical Institute, Waco, Texas, and (2) trainee success in gaining training related employment and a salary increase. Subjects (244 trainees taking eight classes in mechanics,…

  8. What Future for Technical & Vocational Education & Training? Selected papers presented at the International Conference of the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, December 14-18, 1992).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hall, William C., Ed.

    This collection of articles of international appeal on the future of vocational and technical education and training begins with an introduction by William Hall and includes the following papers: "New Vocationalism in the United States: Potential Problems and Outlook" (Benson); "Learning within a Work Context: Training Concepts,…

  9. Development, initial reliability and validity testing of an observational tool for assessing technical skills of operating room nurses.

    PubMed

    Sevdalis, Nick; Undre, Shabnam; Henry, Janet; Sydney, Elaine; Koutantji, Mary; Darzi, Ara; Vincent, Charles A

    2009-09-01

    The recent emergence of the Systems Approach to the safety and quality of surgical care has triggered individual and team skills training modules for surgeons and anaesthetists and relevant observational assessment tools have been developed. To develop an observational tool that captures operating room (OR) nurses' technical skill and can be used for assessment and training. The Imperial College Assessment of Technical Skills for Nurses (ICATS-N) assesses (i) gowning and gloving, (ii) setting up instrumentation, (iii) draping, and (iv) maintaining sterility. Three to five observable behaviours have been identified for each skill and are rated on 1-6 scales. Feasibility and aspects of reliability and validity were assessed in 20 simulation-based crisis management training modules for trainee nurses and doctors, carried out in a Simulated Operating Room. The tool was feasible to use in the context of simulation-based training. Satisfactory reliability (Cronbach alpha) was obtained across trainers' and trainees' scores (analysed jointly and separately). Moreover, trainer nurse's ratings of the four skills correlated positively, thus indicating adequate content validity. Trainer's and trainees' ratings did not correlate. Assessment of OR nurses' technical skill is becoming a training priority. The present evidence suggests that the ICATS-N could be considered for use as an assessment/training tool for junior OR nurses.

  10. Peer coaching to teach faculty surgeons an advanced laparoscopic skill: A randomized controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Palter, Vanessa N; Beyfuss, Kaitlyn A; Jokhio, Adam R; Ryzynski, Agnes; Ashamalla, Shady

    2016-11-01

    Preliminary evidence suggests that coaching is an effective adjunct in resident training. The learning needs of faculty, however, are different from those of trainees. Assessing the effectiveness of peer coaching at improving the technical proficiency of practicing surgeons is an area that remains largely unexplored. The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of a peer coaching program that teaches laparoscopic suturing to faculty surgeons. Surgeons inexperienced in laparoscopic suturing were randomized to either conventional training or peer coaching. Both groups performed a pretest on a box trainer. The conventional training group then received a web link to a tutorial for teaching laparoscopic suturing and a box trainer for independent practice. In addition to the web link and the box trainer, the peer coaching group received 2 half hour peer coaching sessions. Both groups then performed a stitch on the box trainer that was video recorded. The primary outcome measure was technical performance, which was assessed by a global rating scale. Eighteen faculty were randomized (conventional training n = 9; peer coaching n = 9). Initially, there was no difference in technical skills between the groups (conventional training median score 10 [interquartile range 8.5-15]; peer coaching 13 [10.5-14]; P = .64). After the intervention, the peer coaching group had improved technical performance (conventional training 11 [8.5-12.5]; peer coaching 18 [17-19]; P < .01). Comparing the pre- and postintervention scores within both groups, there was an improvement in technical proficiency in the peer coaching group, yet none in the conventional training group (before conventional training 10 [8.5-15], after conventional training 11 [8.5-12.5]; P = .56; before peer coaching 13 [10.5-14], after peer coaching 18 [17-19]; P < .01). This trial demonstrates that a structured peer coaching program can facilitate faculty surgeons learning a novel procedure. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  11. Quiet eye training improves surgical knot tying more than traditional technical training: a randomized controlled study.

    PubMed

    Causer, Joe; Harvey, Adrian; Snelgrove, Ryan; Arsenault, Gina; Vickers, Joan N

    2014-08-01

    We examined the effectiveness of technical training (TT) and quiet eye training (QE) on the performance of one-handed square knot tying in surgical residents. Twenty surgical residents were randomly assigned to the 2 groups and completed pretest, training, retention, and transfer tests. Participants wore a mobile eye tracker that simultaneously recorded their gaze and hand movements. Dependent variables were knot tying performance (%), QE duration (%), number of fixations, total movement time (s), and hand movement phase time (s). The QE training group had significantly higher performance scores, a longer QE duration, fewer fixations, faster total knot tying times, and faster movement phase times compared with the TT group. The QE group maintained performance in the transfer test, whereas the TT group significantly decreased performance from retention to transfer. QE training significantly improved learning, retention, and transfer of surgical knot tying compared with a traditional technical approach. Both performance effectiveness (performance outcome) and movement efficiency (hand movement times) were improved using QE modeling, instruction, and feedback. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  12. Technical Education and Vocational Training in Developing Nations

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Okolie, Ugochukwu Chinonso, Ed.

    2017-01-01

    Severe economic depression and the difficulty to acquire employment with adequate income have significant impact on a nation's social welfare. The need to provide ample educational opportunities is more imperative than ever, particularly in emerging economies. "Technical Education and Vocational Training in Developing Nations" is a…

  13. INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS CATALOG. (TITLE SUPPLIED).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    California State Dept. of Education, Sacramento.

    COURSES OF INSTRUCTION, WORKBOOKS, TESTBOOKS, AND EXAMINATIONS ARE LISTED FOR AUTO MECHANICS, CABINET MAKING, CARPENTRY, DRYWALL CONSTRUCTION, RADIO SERVICES, AND 30 OTHER AREAS OF APPRENTICE TRAINING. A SYLLABUS FOR TRAINING PART-TIME TRADE AND TECHNICAL TEACHERS IS INCLUDED WITH TECHNICAL EDUCATION MATERIALS. PRICES ARE LISTED FOR ALL MATERIALS.…

  14. 78 FR 10175 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comment Request

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-02-13

    ... patient or provider characteristics, physical environment and layout; technical training and support... practice, and, in particular, the technical aspects of clinicians using the health IT system. The focus...; the extent and adequacy of training or instruction patients received in using the health IT; attitudes...

  15. 75 FR 42181 - Notice of Funding Availability for the Small Business Transportation Resource Center Program

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-07-20

    ... of 20 hours of individual or group counseling sessions to small businesses per month. (D) Planning... training programs, such as, business assessment, management training, counseling, technical assistance... business counseling, and technical assistance with small businesses currently doing business with public...

  16. 76 FR 30990 - Notice of Funding Availability for the Small Business Transportation Resource Center Program

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-05-27

    ... contracts and subcontracts portfolio. 3. Provide a minimum of 20 hours of individual or group counseling... training programs, such as, business assessment, management training, counseling, technical assistance... information dissemination, small business counseling, and technical assistance with small businesses currently...

  17. 10 CFR 2.703 - Examination by experts.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... permit a qualified individual who has scientific or technical training or experience to participate on... purpose of furthering the conduct of the proceeding; (2) That the individual is qualified by scientific or technical training or experience to contribute to the development of an adequate decisional record in the...

  18. Value of Job Experience to Teaching Effectiveness of Technical Training Instructors.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Askren, William B.; Valentine, Robert I.

    Air Force technical training instructors with and without field job experience were compared regarding teaching effectiveness. Student grades, written critiques, and supervisor ratings were used to measure effectiveness. Results indicated significant differences between instructors on student overall course grades and critiques. However, an…

  19. Simulation-based ureteroscopy skills training curriculum with integration of technical and non-technical skills: a randomised controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Brunckhorst, Oliver; Shahid, Shahab; Aydin, Abdullatif; McIlhenny, Craig; Khan, Shahid; Raza, Syed Johar; Sahai, Arun; Brewin, James; Bello, Fernando; Kneebone, Roger; Khan, Muhammad Shamim; Dasgupta, Prokar; Ahmed, Kamran

    2015-09-01

    Current training modalities within ureteroscopy have been extensively validated and must now be integrated within a comprehensive curriculum. Additionally, non-technical skills often cause surgical error and little research has been conducted to combine this with technical skills teaching. This study therefore aimed to develop and validate a curriculum for semi-rigid ureteroscopy, integrating both technical and non-technical skills teaching within the programme. Delphi methodology was utilised for curriculum development and content validation, with a randomised trial then conducted (n = 32) for curriculum evaluation. The developed curriculum consisted of four modules; initially developing basic technical skills and subsequently integrating non-technical skills teaching. Sixteen participants underwent the simulation-based curriculum and were subsequently assessed, together with the control cohort (n = 16) within a full immersion environment. Both technical (Time to completion, OSATS and a task specific checklist) and non-technical (NOTSS) outcome measures were recorded with parametric and non-parametric analyses used depending on the distribution of our data as evaluated by a Shapiro-Wilk test. Improvements within the intervention cohort demonstrated educational value across all technical and non-technical parameters recorded, including time to completion (p < 0.01), OSATS scores (p < 0.001), task specific checklist scores (p = 0.011) and NOTSS scores (p < 0.001). Content validity, feasibility and acceptability were all demonstrated through curriculum development and post-study questionnaire results. The current developed curriculum demonstrates that integrating both technical and non-technical skills teaching is both educationally valuable and feasible. Additionally, the curriculum offers a validated simulation-based training modality within ureteroscopy and a framework for the development of other simulation-based programmes.

  20. Feasibility study of a game integrating assessment and therapy of tinnitus.

    PubMed

    Wise, K; Kobayashi, K; Searchfield, G D

    2015-07-15

    Tinnitus, head and ear noise, is due to maladaptive plastic changes in auditory and associated neural networks. Tinnitus has been traditionally managed through the use of sound to passively mask or facilitate habituation to tinnitus, a process that may take 6-12 months. A game-based perceptual training method, requiring localisation and selective attention to sounds, was developed and customised to the individual's tinnitus perception. Eight participants tested the games usability at home. Each participant successfully completed 30 min of training, for 20 days, along with daily psychoacoustic assessment of tinnitus pitch and loudness. The training period and intensity of training appears sufficient to reduce tinnitus handicap. The training approach used may be a viable alternative to frequency discrimination based training for treating tinnitus (Hoare et al., 2014) and a useful tool in exploring learning mechanisms in the auditory system. Integration of tinnitus assessment with therapy in a game is feasible, and the method(s) warrant further investigation. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  1. Determining procedures for simulation-based training in radiology: a nationwide needs assessment.

    PubMed

    Nayahangan, Leizl Joy; Nielsen, Kristina Rue; Albrecht-Beste, Elisabeth; Bachmann Nielsen, Michael; Paltved, Charlotte; Lindorff-Larsen, Karen Gilboe; Nielsen, Bjørn Ulrik; Konge, Lars

    2018-06-01

    New training modalities such as simulation are widely accepted in radiology; however, development of effective simulation-based training programs is challenging. They are often unstructured and based on convenience or coincidence. The study objective was to perform a nationwide needs assessment to identify and prioritize technical procedures that should be included in a simulation-based curriculum. A needs assessment using the Delphi method was completed among 91 key leaders in radiology. Round 1 identified technical procedures that radiologists should learn. Round 2 explored frequency of procedure, number of radiologists performing the procedure, risk and/or discomfort for patients, and feasibility for simulation. Round 3 was elimination and prioritization of procedures. Response rates were 67 %, 70 % and 66 %, respectively. In Round 1, 22 technical procedures were included. Round 2 resulted in pre-prioritization of procedures. In round 3, 13 procedures were included in the final prioritized list. The three highly prioritized procedures were ultrasound-guided (US) histological biopsy and fine-needle aspiration, US-guided needle puncture and catheter drainage, and basic abdominal ultrasound. A needs assessment identified and prioritized 13 technical procedures to include in a simulation-based curriculum. The list may be used as guide for development of training programs. • Simulation-based training can supplement training on patients in radiology. • Development of simulation-based training should follow a structured approach. • The CAMES Needs Assessment Formula explores needs for simulation training. • A national Delphi study identified and prioritized procedures suitable for simulation training. • The prioritized list serves as guide for development of courses in radiology.

  2. Influence of non-preferred foot technical training in reducing lower limbs functional asymmetry among young football players.

    PubMed

    Guilherme, José; Garganta, Júlio; Graça, Amândio; Seabra, André

    2015-01-01

    The functional asymmetry of the lower limbs has been regarded as a relevant factor of the performance of football players. We purposed to ascertain whether a specific technical training programme for the non-preferred foot has implications in the increasing utilisation rate of the respective member during the game. Young football players (n = 71) were randomly divided into experimental group (N = 35; 14.37 ± 1.94 years) and control group (N = 36; 14.50 ± 1.81 years). The study was developed into three stages: first, assessment of the index utilisation of both limbs during the game; second, application of a technical training programme that includes the drilling of specific motor skills exclusively directed to the non-preferred foot; and third, assessment of the new rate of both limbs' utilisation after the predefined six months. The main findings were: (1) the use of the non-preferred foot increased significantly with the technical training programme in the experimental group and remained constant in the control group; (2) the use of the preferred foot decreased significantly in the experimental group and remained similar in control group. We concluded that a systematic and specific technical training for the non-preferred foot increases its use and reduces functional asymmetry in game situation, consequently improving the player's performance.

  3. Validation of a novel duplex ultrasound objective structured assessment of technical skills (DUOSATS) for arterial stenosis detection.

    PubMed

    Jaffer, U; Singh, P; Pandey, V A; Aslam, M; Standfield, N J

    2014-01-01

    Duplex ultrasound facilitates bedside diagnosis and hence timely patient care. Its uptake has been hampered by training and accreditation issues. We have developed an assessment tool for Duplex arterial stenosis measurement for both simulator and patient based training. A novel assessment tool: duplex ultrasound assessment of technical skills was developed. A modified duplex ultrasound assessment of technical skills was used for simulator training. Novice, intermediate experience and expert users of duplex ultrasound were invited to participate. Participants viewed an instructional video and were allowed ample time to familiarize with the equipment. Participants' attempts were recorded and independently assessed by four experts using the modified duplex ultrasound assessment of technical skills. 'Global' assessment was also done on a four point Likert scale. Content, construct and concurrent validity as well as reliability were evaluated. Content and construct validity as well as reliability were demonstrated. The simulator had good satisfaction rating from participants: median 4; range 3-5. Receiver operator characteristic analysis has established a cut point of 22/ 34 and 25/ 40 were most appropriate for simulator and patient based assessment respectively. We have validated a novel assessment tool for duplex arterial stenosis detection. Further work is underway to establish transference validity of simulator training to improved skill in scanning patients. We have developed and validated duplex ultrasound assessment of technical skills for simulator training.

  4. Teaching ear reconstruction using an alloplastic carving model.

    PubMed

    Murabit, Amera; Anzarut, Alexander; Kasrai, Laila; Fisher, David; Wilkes, Gordon

    2010-11-01

    Ear reconstruction is challenging surgery, often with poor outcomes. Our purpose was to develop a surgical training model for auricular reconstruction. Silicone costal cartilage models were incorporated in a workshop-based instructional program. Trainees were randomly divided. Workshop group (WG) participated in an interactive session, carving frameworks under supervision. Nonworkshop group (NWG) did not participate. Standard Nagata templates were used. Two further frameworks were created, first with supervision then without. Groups were combined after the first carving because of frustration in the NWG. Assessment was completed by 3 microtia surgeons from 2 different centers, blinded to framework origin. Frameworks were rated out of 10 using Likert and visual analog scales. Results were examined using SPSS (version 14), with t test, ANOVA, and Bonferroni post hoc analyses. Cartilaginous frameworks from the WG scored better for the first carving (WG 5.5 vs NWG 4.4), the NWG improved for the second carving (WG 6.6 vs NWG 6.5), and both groups scored lower with the third unsupervised carving (WG 5.9 vs NWG 5.6). Combined scores after 3 frameworks were not statistically significantly different between original groups. A statistically significant improvement was demonstrated for all carvers between sessions 1 and 2 (P ≤ 0.09), between sessions 1 and 3 (P ≤ 0.05), but not between sessions 2 and 3, thus suggesting the necessity of in vitro practice until high scores are achieved and maintained without supervision before embarking on in vivo carvings. Quality of carvings was not related to level of training. An appropriate and applicable surgical training model and training method can aid in attaining skills necessary for successful auricular reconstruction.

  5. Randomized clinical trial to evaluate mental practice in enhancing advanced laparoscopic surgical performance.

    PubMed

    Louridas, M; Bonrath, E M; Sinclair, D A; Dedy, N J; Grantcharov, T P

    2015-01-01

    Mental practice, the cognitive rehearsal of a task without physical movement, is known to enhance performance in sports and music. Investigation of this technique in surgery has been limited to basic operations. The purpose of this study was to develop mental practice scripts, and to assess their effect on advanced laparoscopic skills and surgeon stress levels in a crisis scenario. Twenty senior surgical trainees were randomized to either conventional training or mental practice groups, the latter being trained by an expert performance psychologist. Participants' skills were assessed while performing a porcine laparoscopic jejunojejunostomy as part of a crisis scenario in a simulated operating room, using the Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skill (OSATS) and bariatric OSATS (BOSATS) instruments. Objective and subjective stress parameters were measured, as well as non-technical skills using the Non-Technical Skills for Surgeons rating tool. An improvement in OSATS (P = 0.003) and BOSATS (P = 0.003) scores was seen in the mental practice group compared with the conventional training group. Seven of ten trainees improved their technical performance during the crisis scenario, whereas four of the ten conventionally trained participants deteriorated. Mental imagery ability improved significantly following mental practice training (P = 0.011), but not in the conventional group (P = 0.083). No differences in objective or subjective stress levels or non-technical skills were evident. Mental practice improves technical performance for advanced laparoscopic tasks in the simulated operating room, and allows trainees to maintain or improve their performance despite added stress. © 2014 BJS Society Ltd. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  6. Technical Secondary Education in Togo and Cameroon--Research Note.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Paul, Jean-Jacques

    1990-01-01

    Evaluates technical secondary education in Togo and Cameroon from the market perspective, using tracer study data. To help overcome difficulties in finding employment after training, many individuals secure work in the low-paying informal sector. One solution is to stimulate and enhance the role of informal training through apprentice training…

  7. 76 FR 67194 - Administration on Children, Youth and Families Announces the Award of a Single-Source Program...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-10-31

    ... Support Expanded Training and Technical Assistance to the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence... and Services Act (FVPSA) Technical Assistance (TA) Project. CFDA Number: 93.592. Statutory Authority... Domestic Violence in Harrisburg, PA. The supplemental funds will support the grantee in providing training...

  8. Multiple Effects of Human Resource Development Interventions

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rowold, Jens

    2008-01-01

    Purpose: This study aims to explore the simultaneous impact of employees participation in non-technical training, technical training, and coaching on subsequent job performance, job involvement, and job satisfaction. Design/methodology/approach: The present study was based on a sample of German call center employees and on a longitudinal,…

  9. Final report : for the period of December 1999 through November 30, 2000 : Florida Transit Training Program (1999/2000) : Florida Technical Assistance Program (1999/2000)

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2000-01-01

    The following progress report is intended to highlight the significant activities of the Florida Transit Training Program and Florida Technical Assistant Program. The following progress report is intended to highlight the significant activities of th...

  10. Solar Energy Task Force Report on Education and Training.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    O'Connor, J. Kevin

    The Solar Energy Task Force Report summarizes data, information, and discussions focusing on solar space and water heating applications. The report is intended to fill a need for curriculum and course development and direction for technical training programs, especially in vocational/technical schools and community colleges. It addresses…

  11. 34 CFR 300.119 - Technical assistance and training activities.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... EDUCATION OF CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES State Eligibility Least Restrictive Environment (lre) § 300.119... 34 Education 2 2011-07-01 2010-07-01 true Technical assistance and training activities. 300.119 Section 300.119 Education Regulations of the Offices of the Department of Education (Continued) OFFICE OF...

  12. Class of 1994, Annual Report: NH Technical Colleges and Institute and NH Police Standards and Training.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    New Hampshire State Dept. of Postsecondary Technical Education, Concord.

    This 1994 annual report for the New Hampshire Technical Colleges and Institute System (NHTC&IS) includes information on enrollments, outcomes, job placement, average salaries, transfer institutions, work force training, the Police Academy, finances, future directions, and governance. Introductory material highlights the following…

  13. CIVIL ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY CONSULTANTS' WORKSHOP, REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS (ATLANTA, MAY 17-20, 1967).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    DOBROVOLNY, JERRY S.

    THIS REPORT ATTEMPTS TO SHOW ADMINISTRATORS OF JUNIOR COLLEGES, TECHNICAL INSTITUTES, AND GOVERNMENT OR INDUSTRIAL TRAINING PROGRAMS CERTAIN CRITICAL PROBLEMS IN THE TRAINING OF CIVIL ENGINEERING TECHNICIANS. THE PHILOSOPHY OF TECHNICAL EDUCATION REQUIRES ATTENTION AS DOES THE IDENTIFICATION OF STUDENTS WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM AND SUCCESSFULLY…

  14. Vocational Education and Training: A Major Shift in World Bank Policy.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Foster, Phillip

    1992-01-01

    Comments on the World Bank's policy paper on vocational and technical education and training. Argues that past failures in establishing effective vocational and technical education were a result of not applying conventional neoclassical economic theory. Asserts that the World Bank's policy paper corrects this approach. (CFR)

  15. Automation and the Workplace. Selected Labor, Education, and Training Issues. A Technical Memorandum.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Congress of the U.S., Washington, DC. Office of Technology Assessment.

    This technical memorandum discusses procedures for evaluating potential employment change associated with automation and outlines associated problems. It also describes the nature and modes of delivery of education, training, and retraining for persons holding or seeking employment in manufacturing industries. An introduction provides a brief…

  16. Vocational-Technical Marine Career Opportunities in Texas.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hollin, Dewayne

    Presented are background information and descriptions of jobs in various Texas marine industries, as well as a summary of the training required for particular positions. Since the emphasis is upon vocational-technical training for immediate job placement, most opportunities discussed require a high school diploma and some on-the-job education.…

  17. Apprenticeship and CETA Technical Assistance Guide.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Employment and Training Administration (DOL), Washington, DC.

    Intended to encourage CETA (Comprehensive Employment and Training Act) prime sponsors and apprenticeship program sponsors to integrate their activities, this technical assistance guide demonstrates many ways the two can unite at the local level to train and place people for employment. A general description of CETA is provided explaining the shift…

  18. High Technology Training at Greenville Technical College.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Barton, Thomas E.; And Others

    These three papers focus on various aspects of high technology training at Greenville Technical College (GTC). First, "High Technology and the Community College," by Thomas E. Barton, discusses what high technology should mean to educators and argues that changes in the nature of industrial production require that community colleges not only keep…

  19. Participation in Training for Depression Care Quality Improvement: A Randomized Trial of Community Engagement or Technical Support.

    PubMed

    Chung, Bowen; Ngo, Victoria K; Ong, Michael K; Pulido, Esmeralda; Jones, Felica; Gilmore, James; Stoker-Mtume, Norma; Johnson, Megan; Tang, Lingqi; Wells, Kenneth Brooks; Sherbourne, Cathy; Miranda, Jeanne

    2015-08-01

    Community engagement and planning (CEP) could improve dissemination of depression care quality improvement in underresourced communities, but whether its effects on provider training participation differ from those of standard technical assistance, or resources for services (RS), is unknown. This study compared program- and staff-level participation in depression care quality improvement training among programs enrolled in CEP, which trained networks of health care and social-community agencies jointly, and RS, which provided technical support to individual programs. Matched programs from health care and social-community service sectors in two communities were randomly assigned to RS or CEP. Data were from 1,622 eligible staff members from 95 enrolled programs. Primary outcomes were any staff trained (for programs) and total hours of training (for staff). Secondary staff-level outcomes were hours of training in specific depression collaborative care components. CEP programs were more likely than RS programs to participate in any training (p=.006). Within health care sectors, CEP programs were more likely than RS programs to participate in training (p=.016), but within social-community sectors, there was no difference in training by intervention. Among staff who participated in training, mean training hours were greater among CEP programs versus RS programs for any type of training (p<.001) and for training related to each component of depression care (p<.001) except medication management. CEP may be an effective strategy to promote staff participation in depression care improvement efforts in underresourced communities.

  20. Evaluation of the Relationship between Critical Thinking Skills and Affective Control in Child Training Students of the Female Technical and Vocational College in the City of Broujerd

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Esmaeili, Zohreh; Bagheri, Mahdi

    2015-01-01

    This study is a descriptive-correlational study with the purpose of evaluating the relationship between critical thinking skills and affective control in child training students of the female technical and Vocational College in the city of Broujerd. Statistical population of this study consisted of all students in the field of child training of…

  1. Bibliography - Technical Reports, Special Reports, and Technical Notes, FY 1981.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1982-03-01

    Programs. TR 81-24. September 1981. S. R. Harding , B. Mogford, W. H. Melching, and M. Showel. (AD-AI06 370) This report describes the development of four...apply their training in the field and receive greater command support than do ODAOs. Computer-based Approach to the Navy’s Academic Remedial Training...instructional effectiveness of the performance-related enabling skills training (PREST) program with that of the standard classroom approach , quantify the

  2. The Role of the Russian Methodological and Training Center in providing Nondestructive Assay Technical Assistance to Russian Enterprises

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

    Bogdanov, Sergey; Bezhunov, Gennady; Ryazanov, Boris

    The Russian Methodological and Training center (RMTC) was initially created to provide not only personnel training in the areas of nuclear material control and accounting (MC&A), but also methodological and technical assistance to the Russian government and nuclear facilities. The goal of the assistance was to promote enhancement of Russian MC&A infrastructure and modernize the MC&A systems at individual enterprises and facilities.

  3. Development, Implementation, and Evaluation of Leadership/Management Training within Army Battalions. Volume 2. Technical Appendices

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1975-06-01

    8217- r AD-A012 774 DEVELOPMENT, IMPLEMENTATION, AND EVALUATION OF LEADERSHIP / MANAGEMENT TRAINING WITHIN ARMY BATTALIONS. VOLUME 2. TECHNICAL...and Identify by block numbera) This report describes the development and eva.L.uuLion of an experiential-based, leadership / management trai iing...organizational intervention and change similar to that presented in Figure H-1. According to this approach, training in more effective leadership / management skills

  4. 40 CFR 47.105 - Definitions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... personnel, but does not include technical training activities directed toward environmental management... and training mean educational activities and training activities involving elementary, secondary, and...

  5. Core trainee boot camp-A method for improving technical and non-technical skills of novice surgical trainees. A before and after study.

    PubMed

    Bamford, R; Langdon, L; Rodd, C A; Eastaugh-Waring, S; Coulston, J E

    2018-04-10

    The transition to surgical training can be a stressful time for trainees and is most evident during national handover periods where new graduates start and senior trainees rotate to new programmes. During this time, patient mortality can increase and Hospital efficiency reduces. This influence is compounded by the impact of working time directives. Intensive, simulation rich training programmes or "Boot Camps" have been postulated as a solution. This article highlights the development of a surgical boot camp for novice surgical trainees and the impact this can have on training. A novel surgical boot camp was developed for all trainees within a surgical training region including nine acute NHS trusts. Participating cohort of trainees completed pre and post course questionnaires to assess technical and non-technical skills. 25 trainees attended and completed the pre and post boot camp questionnaire. Significant improvements were seen with technical skills (p = 0.0429), overall non-technical skills (p < 0.001) including leadership (p = 0.022), communication (p = 0.010), situational awareness (p = 0.022), patient handover (p = 0.003), ward round skills (p = 0.005) and outpatient skill (p = 0.002). Trainees reported significantly increased ability to assess and manage a critically unwell patient (p = 0.001) and a trauma patient (p = 0.001). 96% of trainees have utilised the skills they learnt on Boot Camp and all trainees would recommend it as an induction programme. Surgical Boot Camps offer a timely chance to develop technical and non-technical skills whilst enhancing a trainee's confidence and knowledge and reduce the patient safety impact of the handover period. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  6. Dogs’ Body Language Relevant to Learning Achievement

    PubMed Central

    Hasegawa, Masashi; Ohtani, Nobuyo; Ohta, Mitsuaki

    2014-01-01

    Simple Summary For humans and dogs to live together amiably, dog training is required, and a lack of obedience training is significantly related to the prevalence of certain behavioral problems. To train efficiently, it is important that the trainer/owner ascertains the learning level of the dog. Understanding the dog’s body language helps humans understand the animal’s emotions. This study evaluated the posture of certain dog body parts during operant conditioning. Our findings suggest that certain postures were related to the dog’s learning level during operant conditioning. Being aware of these postures could be helpful to understand canine emotion during learning. Abstract The facial expressions and body postures of dogs can give helpful information about their moods and emotional states. People can more effectively obedience train their dogs if we can identify the mannerisms associated with learning in dogs. The aim of this study was to clarify the dog’s body language during operant conditioning to predict achievement in the test that followed by measuring the duration of behaviors. Forty-six untrained dogs (17 males and 26 females) of various breeds were used. Each session consisted of 5 minutes of training with a treat reward followed by 3 minutes of rest and finally an operant conditioning test that consisted of 20 “hand motion” cues. The operant tests were conducted a total of nine times over three consecutive days, and the success numbers were counted. The duration of the dog’s behavior, focusing on the dog’s eyes, mouth, ears, tail and tail-wagging, was recorded during the operant conditioning sessions before the test. Particular behaviors, including wide-eyes, closed mouth, erect ears, and forward and high tail carriage, without wagging or with short and quick wagging, related to high achievement results. It is concluded that dogs' body language during operant conditioning was related to their success rate. PMID:26479883

  7. Carl D. Perkins Vocational Education Act. Hearing before the Select Committee on Indian Affairs on S. 496 To Amend the Carl D. Perkins Vocational Education Act To Establish a Program of Grants for Vocational-Technical Training and To Encourage Tribal Economic Development, To Provide for the Designation of the National Indian Center for Research in Vocational-Technical Training. United States Senate, One Hundred First Congress, First Session (September 15, 1989).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Congress of the U.S., Washington, DC. Senate Select Committee on Indian Affairs.

    This document contains the text of a Senate hearing examining proposed changes (S. 496) to the Carl D. Perkins Vocational Education Act. The amendment would take effect in October 1991 to establish a program of grants for vocational-technical training and to provide for the designation of the National Indian Center for Research in…

  8. Comparison of the Physical and Technical Demands of Cricket Players During Training and Match-Play.

    PubMed

    Vickery, Will; Duffield, Rob; Crowther, Rian; Beakley, David; Blanch, Peter; Dascombe, Ben J

    2018-03-01

    Vickery, W, Duffield, R, Crowther, R, Beakley, D, Blanch, P, and Dascombe, BJ. Comparison of the physical and technical demands of cricket players during training and match-play. J Strength Cond Res 32(3): 821-829, 2018-This study aimed to determine which training method (net-based sessions or center-wicket simulations) currently used in national level and U19 male players cricket provided a more physical and technical match-specific training response. The heart rate, rating of perceived exertion, and movement patterns of 42 male cricket players were measured across the various training and match formats. Video analysis was coded retrospectively to quantify technical loads based on the cricket skills performed. Magnitude-based inferences were based on the standardization of effect and presented with ±90% confidence intervals. Regardless of playing position, differences in physiological demands between training modes and match-play were unclear, with the exception of higher heart rates in fielders during traditional net sessions (mean heart rate: d = -2.7 [-4.7 to -0.7]; 75% of maximum heart rate: d = -1.7 [-3.2 to -0.2]). Typically, the movement demands of center-wicket simulations were similar or greater than match-play, which was most evident in the distance traveled at a high intensity within each playing position (batsmen: d = 6.4 [3.7-9.2]; medium-fast bowlers: d = 1.71 [0.1-3.3]; spin bowlers: d = 6.5 [0.01-13.0]; fielders: d = 0.8 [-0.2 to 1.7]). The technical demands of traditional net cricket training exceeded that of a typical match for each playing position. Specifically, fast bowlers delivered a greater number of balls during net-bowling compared with a match (d = -2.2 [-3.6 to 0.9]). In conclusion, center-wicket simulations more closely matched the physical demands of a One-Day match within batsmen and spin bowlers, whereas traditional cricket training often exceeded match-specific demands.

  9. Training NOAA Staff on Effective Communication Methods with Local Climate Users

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Timofeyeva, M. M.; Mayes, B.

    2011-12-01

    Since 2002 NOAA National Weather Service (NWS) Climate Services Division (CSD) offered training opportunities to NWS staff. As a result of eight-year-long development of the training program, NWS offers three training courses and about 25 online distance learning modules covering various climate topics: climate data and observations, climate variability and change, NWS national and local climate products, their tools, skill, and interpretation. Leveraging climate information and expertise available at all NOAA line offices and partners allows delivery of the most advanced knowledge and is a very critical aspect of the training program. NWS challenges in providing local climate services includes effective communication techniques on provide highly technical scientific information to local users. Addressing this challenge requires well trained, climate-literate workforce at local level capable of communicating the NOAA climate products and services as well as provide climate-sensitive decision support. Trained NWS climate service personnel use proactive and reactive approaches and professional education methods in communicating climate variability and change information to local users. Both scientifically-unimpaired messages and amiable communication techniques such as story telling approach are important in developing an engaged dialog between the climate service providers and users. Several pilot projects NWS CSD conducted in the past year applied the NWS climate services training program to training events for NOAA technical user groups. The technical user groups included natural resources managers, engineers, hydrologists, and planners for transportation infrastructure. Training of professional user groups required tailoring the instructions to the potential applications of each group of users. Training technical user identified the following critical issues: (1) Knowledge of target audience expectations, initial knowledge status, and potential use of climate information; (2) Leveraging partnership with climate services providers; and, (3) Applying 3H training approach, where the first H stands for Head (trusted science), the second H stands for Heart (make it easy), and the third H for Hand (support with applications).

  10. A systematic review of evidence for education and training interventions in microsurgery.

    PubMed

    Ghanem, Ali M; Hachach-Haram, Nadine; Leung, Clement Chi Ming; Myers, Simon Richard

    2013-07-01

    Over the past decade, driven by advances in educational theory and pressures for efficiency in the clinical environment, there has been a shift in surgical education and training towards enhanced simulation training. Microsurgery is a technical skill with a steep competency learning curve on which the clinical outcome greatly depends. This paper investigates the evidence for educational and training interventions of traditional microsurgical skills courses in order to establish the best evidence practice in education and training and curriculum design. A systematic review of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PubMed databases was performed to identify randomized control trials looking at educational and training interventions that objectively improved microsurgical skill acquisition, and these were critically appraised using the BestBETs group methodology. The databases search yielded 1,148, 1,460, and 2,277 citations respectively. These were then further limited to randomized controlled trials from which abstract reviews reduced the number to 5 relevant randomised controlled clinical trials. The best evidence supported a laboratory based low fidelity model microsurgical skills curriculum. There was strong evidence that technical skills acquired on low fidelity models transfers to improved performance on higher fidelity human cadaver models and that self directed practice leads to improved technical performance. Although there is significant paucity in the literature to support current microsurgical education and training practices, simulated training on low fidelity models in microsurgery is an effective intervention that leads to acquisition of transferable skills and improved technical performance. Further research to identify educational interventions associated with accelerated skill acquisition is required.

  11. A review of the available urology skills training curricula and their validation.

    PubMed

    Shepherd, William; Arora, Karan Singh; Abboudi, Hamid; Shamim Khan, Mohammed; Dasgupta, Prokar; Ahmed, Kamran

    2014-01-01

    The transforming field of urological surgery continues to demand development of novel training devices and curricula for its trainees. Contemporary trainees have to balance workplace demands while overcoming the cognitive barriers of acquiring skills in rapidly multiplying and advancing surgical techniques. This article provides a brief review of the process involved in developing a surgical curriculum and the current status of real and simulation-based curricula in the 4 subgroups of urological surgical practice: open, laparoscopic, endoscopic, and robotic. An informal literature review was conducted to provide a snapshot into the variety of simulation training tools available for technical and nontechnical urological surgical skills within all subgroups of urological surgery using the following keywords: "urology, surgery, training, curriculum, validation, non-technical skills, technical skills, LESS, robotic, laparoscopy, animal models." Validated training tools explored in research were tabulated and summarized. A total of 20 studies exploring validated training tools were identified. Huge variation was noticed in the types of validity sought by researchers and suboptimal incorporation of these tools into curricula was noted across the subgroups of urological surgery. The following key recommendations emerge from the review: adoption of simulation-based curricula in training; better integration of dedicated training time in simulated environments within a trainee's working hours; better incentivization for educators and assessors to improvise, research, and deliver teaching using the technologies available; and continued emphasis on developing nontechnical skills in tandem with technical operative skills. © 2013 Published by Association of Program Directors in Surgery on behalf of Association of Program Directors in Surgery.

  12. Can virtual reality simulation be used for advanced bariatric surgical training?

    PubMed

    Lewis, Trystan M; Aggarwal, Rajesh; Kwasnicki, Richard M; Rajaretnam, Niro; Moorthy, Krishna; Ahmed, Ahmed; Darzi, Ara

    2012-06-01

    Laparoscopic bariatric surgery is a safe and effective way of treating morbid obesity. However, the operations are technically challenging and training opportunities for junior surgeons are limited. This study aims to assess whether virtual reality (VR) simulation is an effective adjunct for training and assessment of laparoscopic bariatric technical skills. Twenty bariatric surgeons of varying experience (Five experienced, five intermediate, and ten novice) were recruited to perform a jejuno-jejunostomy on both cadaveric tissue and on the bariatric module of the Lapmentor VR simulator (Simbionix Corporation, Cleveland, OH). Surgical performance was assessed using validated global rating scales (GRS) and procedure specific video rating scales (PSRS). Subjects were also questioned about the appropriateness of VR as a training tool for surgeons. Construct validity of the VR bariatric module was demonstrated with a significant difference in performance between novice and experienced surgeons on the VR jejuno-jejunostomy module GRS (median 11-15.5; P = .017) and PSRS (median 11-13; P = .003). Content validity was demonstrated with surgeons describing the VR bariatric module as useful and appropriate for training (mean Likert score 4.45/7) and they would highly recommend VR simulation to others for bariatric training (mean Likert score 5/7). Face and concurrent validity were not established. This study shows that the bariatric module on a VR simulator demonstrates construct and content validity. VR simulation appears to be an effective method for training of advanced bariatric technical skills for surgeons at the start of their bariatric training. However, assessment of technical skills should still take place on cadaveric tissue. Copyright © 2012. Published by Mosby, Inc.

  13. Bassett healthcare rural surgery experience.

    PubMed

    Borgstrom, David C; Heneghan, Steven J

    2009-12-01

    The surgical training at Bassett is naturally broader than in many university settings, with a survey showing that nearly 70% of graduates who practice general surgery remain in a rurally designated area. Rural surgery experience falls into 3 categories: undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate. The general surgery training program has no competing fellowships or subspecialty residencies; residents get significant experience with endoscopy; ear, nose, and throat; plastic and hand surgery; and obstetrics and gynecology. The rural setting lifestyle is valued by the students, residents, and fellows alike. It provides an ideal setting for recognizing the specific nuances of small-town American life, with a high-quality education and surgical experience.

  14. O merah po dal'nejsemu ulucseniju podgotovki kvalificirovannyh rabocih v ucebnyh zavedenijah sistemy professional'no-tehniceskogo obrazovanija (Decree Concerning Measures for Further Improvement of the Training of Skilled Workers in the Establishments of the Vocational and Technical Education System) (April 2, 1969).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Communist Party of the Soviet Union, Moscow. Central Committee.

    This document is an English-language abstract (approximately 1,500 words) of a decree issued by the Soviet Government to upgrade the system of vocational and industrial training in the USSR. It claims that vocational and technical educational establishments should gradually be transformed into vocational-technical colleges offering a 3-4 year…

  15. The 200th anniversary of the stethoscope: Can this low-tech device survive in the high-tech 21st century?

    PubMed

    Bank, Ivan; Vliegen, Hubert W; Bruschke, Albert V G

    2016-12-14

    In 1816, Laennec discovered that auscultation of the heart and lungs could effectively be performed by placing a hollow cylinder (initially made of a roll of paper) between the chest of the patient and the ear of the examiner. This was the first step in the development of the stethoscope, which was a breakthrough in the diagnosis and management of cardiac and pulmonary patients. Technical improvements of the stethoscope followed and in cardiac patients auscultation soon became a major diagnostic tool. In the second half of the 20th century, new powerful non-invasive diagnostic modalities were developed and the interest in auscultation declined. As a result, the auscultatory skills of students and physicians at all levels of training decreased to a disappointingly low level. We now must decide whether we should stimulate the use of and proficiency in auscultation or if we should accept the further decline and eventual abolishment of this component of the physical examination. Reviewing the literature and taking into consideration the setting in which the patients are presented, including the availability of advanced diagnostic facilities, we conclude that the time-honoured stethoscope, in spite of its limitations, still has potential as a patient-friendly, effective, and economical instrument in medical practice. However, new initiatives are required to train students, physicians and allied health professionals in cardiac auscultation to avoid misinterpretations that may harm the patients and generate extra costs. To be successful such programs will require wide support from the medical community. Published on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology. All rights reserved. © The Author 2016. For permissions please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  16. Measuring Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Efficiency: Developing a Framework

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Liu, Guimei; Clayton, John

    2016-01-01

    The growing demand for an increasingly skilled competitive workforce and the associated demand for change and responsiveness in the provision of technical vocational education and training (TVET) has led to the development of stronger links between New Zealand and the People's Republic of China. A collaborative model programme project aims to…

  17. Verification of Accurate Technical Insight: A Prerequisite for Self-Directed Surgical Training

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hu, Yinin; Kim, Helen; Mahmutovic, Adela; Choi, Joanna; Le, Ivy; Rasmussen, Sara

    2015-01-01

    Simulation-based surgical skills training during preclinical education is a persistent challenge due to time constraints of trainees and instructors alike. Self-directed practice is resource-efficient and flexible; however, insight into technical proficiency among trainees is often lacking. The purpose of this study is to prospectively assess the…

  18. New Training Technologies. Studies on Technical and Vocational Education 2.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Herremans, Albert

    This book is the second in a series aiming to promote international exchange of ideas, experiences, and studies relating to technical and vocational education. Information provided is designed to help educators and trainers plan for an intelligent use of new training technologies (NTTs) to improve the access to basic and advanced lifelong learning…

  19. Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET): Understanding the Nigerian Experience

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Dike, Victor Ebipuruonwu

    2013-01-01

    The descriptive mixed-methods study explores and describes the challenges and prospects of the growth and development of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) schools and science-based technology education in Nigeria. It is not understood how Nigerians in the United States perceive the impacts of governmental policies on education…

  20. Appeal Resource and Training Consortium (ARTC) 2005-2006

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Online Submission, 2006

    2006-01-01

    APPEAL (Asia Pacific Programme of Education for All) Resource and Training Consortium (ARTC) was initiated in May 1997 at the Technical Working Group Meeting organized by APPEAL in cooperation with the Indian Institute of Education (IIE) to provide technical support and assistance to the work of APPEAL among the Member States. This booklet is a…

  1. EDUCATIONAL STABILITY IN AN UNSTABLE TECHNICAL SOCIETY.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    LESSINGER, LEON

    CURRENT OPINION REGARDING THE ROLE OF THE HIGH SCHOOL IN PROFESSIONAL, TECHNICAL, AND VOCATIONAL EDUCATION IS THAT CHANGES IN TECHNOLOGY MAKE IT IMPOSSIBLE FOR SCHOOLS TO DO ANY TRAINING OTHER THAN GENERAL EDUCATION, OR THAT YOUTH SHOULD BE TRAINED WITH ONLY IMMEDIATE SALEABLE SKILLS BECAUSE THEY WILL HAVE SEVERAL CAREERS BEFORE RETIRING AND WILL…

  2. Integrated Basic Education and Skills Training (I-BEST). Washington's Community and Technical Colleges

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges, 2014

    2014-01-01

    Washington's Integrated Basic Education and Skills Training Program (I-BEST) quickly teaches students literacy, work, and college-readiness skills so they can move through school and into living wage jobs faster. Pioneered by Washington's community and technical colleges, I-BEST uses a team-teaching approach to combine college-readiness classes…

  3. The Training, Retraining and Consulting Needs of Small Manufacturing Companies in the State of Ohio.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Phillips, J. Stephen

    A study ascertained training, retraining, consulting, and technical support needs of small manufacturing companies in Ohio. Data were obtained from nine service areas of Ohio's two-year educational institutions to determine what human, technical, and physical assets campuses should make available. A survey instrument was designed to provide…

  4. Reliable assessment of general surgeons' non-technical skills based on video-recordings of patient simulated scenarios.

    PubMed

    Spanager, Lene; Beier-Holgersen, Randi; Dieckmann, Peter; Konge, Lars; Rosenberg, Jacob; Oestergaard, Doris

    2013-11-01

    Nontechnical skills are essential for safe and efficient surgery. The aim of this study was to evaluate the reliability of an assessment tool for surgeons' nontechnical skills, Non-Technical Skills for Surgeons dk (NOTSSdk), and the effect of rater training. A 1-day course was conducted for 15 general surgeons in which they rated surgeons' nontechnical skills in 9 video recordings of scenarios simulating real intraoperative situations. Data were gathered from 2 sessions separated by a 4-hour training session. Interrater reliability was high for both pretraining ratings (Cronbach's α = .97) and posttraining ratings (Cronbach's α = .98). There was no statistically significant development in assessment skills. The D study showed that 2 untrained raters or 1 trained rater was needed to obtain generalizability coefficients >.80. The high pretraining interrater reliability indicates that videos were easy to rate and Non-Technical Skills for Surgeons dk easy to use. This implies that Non-Technical Skills for Surgeons dk (NOTSSdk) could be an important tool in surgical training, potentially improving safety and quality for surgical patients. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  5. Why should disorders of the ear, nose and throat be treated by the same specialty? Can this situation persist?

    PubMed

    Yalamanchili, S

    2009-04-01

    The surgical specialty of otorhinolaryngology has its origins in the nineteenth century. Subsequently, the specialty also incorporated allied disciplines such as plastics and head and neck surgery. Following World War II, the survival of the specialty was threatened by the advent of antibiotics and the rise of the general surgeon. Despite this, the specialty of ENT was strengthened by strong post-war leadership and robust training.Today, with ENT knowledge ever increasing, the subspecialties have again begun to subdivide. Specialisation brings improved efficiency and outcomes; however, there remains a great need for the ENT generalist. Not all cases require subspecialist attention, and the generalist remains the basis of competent emergency cover. The natural development of otorhinolaryngology has brought the invaluable synergistic knowledge required to comprehensively treat disorders of the ear, nose and throat, knowledge that must not be overlooked when shaping the future of the specialty.

  6. U.S. Combat Commands’ Participation in the Proliferation Security Initiative: A Training Manual

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2009-01-01

    cadmium-zinc- tellurium DHS Department of Homeland Security DoD Department of Defense EAA Export Administration Act EAR Export Administration Regulations EU...Pulsed fast neutron analysis PSI Proliferation Security Initiative Pu Plutonium SCO Shanghai Cooperation Organization SFI Security Freight Initiative...resolution) sodium iodide (NaI) and (intermediate-resolution) cadmium-zinc- tellurium (CZT) detectors may not have the energy resolution and/or sensitivity

  7. Survey on multisensory feedback virtual reality dental training systems.

    PubMed

    Wang, D; Li, T; Zhang, Y; Hou, J

    2016-11-01

    Compared with traditional dental training methods, virtual reality training systems integrated with multisensory feedback possess potentials advantages. However, there exist many technical challenges in developing a satisfactory simulator. In this manuscript, we systematically survey several current dental training systems to identify the gaps between the capabilities of these systems and the clinical training requirements. After briefly summarising the components, functions and unique features of each system, we discuss the technical challenges behind these systems including the software, hardware and user evaluation methods. Finally, the clinical requirements of an ideal dental training system are proposed. Future research/development areas are identified based on an analysis of the gaps between current systems and clinical training requirements. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  8. [Teaching non-technical skills for critical incidents: Crisis resource management training for medical students].

    PubMed

    Krüger, A; Gillmann, B; Hardt, C; Döring, R; Beckers, S K; Rossaint, R

    2009-06-01

    Physicians have to demonstrate non-technical skills, such as communication and team leading skills, while coping with critical incidents. These skills are not taught during medical education. A crisis resource management (CRM) training was established for 4th to 6th year medical students using a full-scale simulator mannikin (Emergency Care Simulator, ECS, METI). The learning objectives of the course were defined according to the key points of Gaba's CRM concept. The training consisted of theoretical and practical parts (3 simulation scenarios with debriefing). Students' self-assessment before and after the training provided the data for evaluation of the training outcome. A total of 65 students took part in the training. The course was well received in terms of overall course quality, debriefings and didactic presentation, the mean overall mark being 1.4 (1: best, 6: worst). After the course students felt significantly more confident when facing incidents in clinical practice. The main learning objectives were achieved. The effectiveness of applying the widely used ECS full-scale simulator in interdisciplinary teaching has been demonstrated. The training exposes students to crisis resource management issues and motivates them to develop non-technical skills.

  9. 77 FR 52698 - 36(b)(1) Arms Sales Notification

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-08-30

    ... training equipment, publications and technical data, U.S. Government and contractor technical and logistics personnel services and other related elements of program and logistics support. (iv) Military Department..., publications and technical data, U.S. Government and contractor technical and logistics personnel services and...

  10. Career-Technical Education--The Immediate Need for Work-Based Curriculum.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Nee, John G.

    1994-01-01

    Career-technical education may be informal on-the-job training, organized workplace education, community college or technical institute programs, or apprenticeships, internships, and cooperative agreements. Another alternative is polytechnical education: providing technical and general studies for adults in existing school facilities after school…

  11. The Reforming of Vocational Teacher Training Colleges in Turkey

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Çavuşoğlu, Abdullah; Günay, Durmuş

    In Turkey, for many decades college level technical education has been in the form of two main tracks: namely the "Faculty of Engineering" and the "Faculty of Technical Education". The Faculties of Engineering are very similar to engineering schools and colleges around the world; they train engineering students. The "Faculties of Technical Education" are similar to the "Schools of Applied Sciences" that many European countries have. The graduates of these schools are either employed at high schools as teachers at technical or vocational high schools, self employed or employed at other governmental organizations as technical staff. Due to the employability problems that the graduates of these schools have faced in recent years and the suggestions made by the The Council of the Higher Education of Turkey (CoHE), Turkish parliament has recently took a decision to close down these colleges and open new colleges called "Faculty of Technology" in November of 2009. According to the CoHE, these new faculties will train engineering students. The graduates of these faculties can also become teachers at the technical or vocational high schools if they get teaching certificate. This paper discusses the content, outlook, and prospects of this recent reform.

  12. 38 CFR 21.9505 - Definitions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    .... (Authority: 38 U.S.C. 3034(a), 3323(a), 3680(g)) Entry level and skill training means— (1) Basic Combat Training and Advanced Individual Training for members of the Army; (2) Recruit Training (Boot Camp) and Skill Training (“A” School) for members of the Navy; (3) Basic Military Training and Technical Training...

  13. Effectiveness of Ear Splint Therapy for Ear Deformities

    PubMed Central

    2017-01-01

    Objective To present our experience with ear splint therapy for babies with ear deformities, and thereby demonstrate that this therapy is an effective and safe intervention without significant complications. Methods This was a retrospective study of 54 babies (35 boys and 19 girls; 80 ears; age ≤3 months) with ear deformities who had received ear splint therapy at the Center for Torticollis, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Ajou University Hospital between December 2014 and February 2016. Before the initiation of ear splint therapy, ear deformities were classified with reference to the standard terminology. We compared the severity of ear deformity before and after ear splint therapy by using the physician's ratings. We also compared the physician's ratings and the caregiver's ratings on completion of ear splint therapy. Results Among these 54 babies, 41 children (58 ears, 72.5%) completed the ear splint therapy. The mean age at initiation of therapy was 52.91±18.26 days and the treatment duration was 44.27±32.06 days. Satyr ear, forward-facing ear lobe, Darwinian notch, overfolded ear, and cupped ear were the five most common ear deformities. At the completion of therapy, the final physician's ratings of ear deformities were significantly improved compared to the initial ratings (8.28±1.44 vs. 2.51±0.92; p<0.001). There was no significant difference between the physician's ratings and the caregiver's ratings at the completion of ear splint therapy (8.28±1.44 vs. 8.0±1.61; p=0.297). Conclusion We demonstrated that ear splint therapy significantly improved ear deformities in babies, as measured by quantitative rating scales. Ear splint therapy is an effective and safe intervention for babies with ear deformities. PMID:28289646

  14. The Modified Rambo Transcanal Approach for Cochlear Implantation in CHARGE Syndrome.

    PubMed

    Wick, Cameron C; Moore, Amy M; Killeen, Daniel E; Isaacson, Brandon

    2017-10-01

    CHARGE syndrome is associated with a variety of temporal bone anomalies and deafness. The lack of surgical landmarks and facial nerve irregularities make cochlear implantation in this population a challenging endeavor. This study aims to describe a safe and efficacious transcanal approach for cochlear implantation that obviates the need to perform a mastoidectomy and facial recess. Three children with profound hearing loss secondary to CHARGE syndrome. Transcanal cochlear implantation with closure of the ear canal via a modified Rambo meatoplasty. Retrospective chart review of temporal bone anomalies associated with CHARGE syndrome, technical nuances of this transcanal approach, and cochlear implant outcomes. The mean patient age was 2.5 years (range 1.5-3.8 yr). Two were male and two were left ears. All patients had a hypoplastic mastoid, semicircular canal aplasia, and had some degree of cochlear dysplasia. A full cochlear implant insertion was achieved in all cases, even in the presence of grossly abnormal middle ear and facial nerve anatomy. There were no intraoperative or postoperative complications. The mean follow-up was 12.4 months (range, 3.9-25.2 mo). All three patients use their device daily. Their guardians report improved vocalization and environmental awareness. The modified Rambo transcanal approach provides a safe corridor for cochlear implantation in patients with CHARGE syndrome. This approach minimizes the anatomical variations associated with the syndrome and may reduce the risk of electrode extrusion. Implant outcomes in this patient population remain highly variable based on the patient's global cognitive capacity.

  15. 12 CFR 1805.303 - Technical assistance.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... proposes to become a CDFI. Such technical assistance may include training for management and other... 12 Banks and Banking 7 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Technical assistance. 1805.303 Section 1805.303... COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS PROGRAM Use of Funds/Eligible Activities § 1805.303 Technical...

  16. Catalog of Navy Training Courses (CANTRAC). Volume 1. Introductory, General Information and Quota Control Notes

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1990-01-01

    Personnel E-6 and below are allowed BAQ on a case by case basis. NAVAL TECHNICAL TRAINING CENTER DETACHMENT FORT DEVENS , MA 1. SHORT TITLE...NAVTECHTRACENDET FT DEVENS , MA 2. ADDRESS: Officer in Charge, Naval Technical Training Center Detachment, Box 91, Fort Devens , MA 01433-5910 74 3. T9I.EPIONE: Monday...Into the Fort Devens area may place them in extrome financial hardship. 5. AVAILABILITY OF ThANSPORTATION: Both Logan (Boston) and Worcester airports

  17. Catalog of Navy Training Courses (CANTRAC) Introductory, General Information and Quota Control Notes. Volume 1. Revision.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1988-01-01

    allowed BAQ on a case by case basis. S3 NAVAL TECHNICAL TRAINING CENTER DETACHMENT FORT DEVENS , MA.5 1. SHORT TITLE: NAVTECHTRACENDET FT DEVENS , MA 2...ADDRESS: Chief Petty Officer in Charge, Naval Technical Training Center Detachment, MacArthur Ave., Building 688, Fort Devens , MA 01433-6301 3. TELEPHONE...units are scarce with a high cost of living. 5. AVAILABILITY OF TRANSPORTATION: Worcester is only 25 to 30 miles from Fort Devens with limited air

  18. A procedural skills OSCE: assessing technical and non-technical skills of internal medicine residents.

    PubMed

    Pugh, Debra; Hamstra, Stanley J; Wood, Timothy J; Humphrey-Murto, Susan; Touchie, Claire; Yudkowsky, Rachel; Bordage, Georges

    2015-03-01

    Internists are required to perform a number of procedures that require mastery of technical and non-technical skills, however, formal assessment of these skills is often lacking. The purpose of this study was to develop, implement, and gather validity evidence for a procedural skills objective structured clinical examination (PS-OSCE) for internal medicine (IM) residents to assess their technical and non-technical skills when performing procedures. Thirty-five first to third-year IM residents participated in a 5-station PS-OSCE, which combined partial task models, standardized patients, and allied health professionals. Formal blueprinting was performed and content experts were used to develop the cases and rating instruments. Examiners underwent a frame-of-reference training session to prepare them for their rater role. Scores were compared by levels of training, experience, and to evaluation data from a non-procedural OSCE (IM-OSCE). Reliability was calculated using Generalizability analyses. Reliabilities for the technical and non-technical scores were 0.68 and 0.76, respectively. Third-year residents scored significantly higher than first-year residents on the technical (73.5 vs. 62.2%) and non-technical (83.2 vs. 75.1%) components of the PS-OSCE (p < 0.05). Residents who had performed the procedures more frequently scored higher on three of the five stations (p < 0.05). There was a moderate disattenuated correlation (r = 0.77) between the IM-OSCE and the technical component of the PS-OSCE scores. The PS-OSCE is a feasible method for assessing multiple competencies related to performing procedures and this study provides validity evidence to support its use as an in-training examination.

  19. Collected Papers Prepared Under Work Unit TEXTRUCT: Methods of Instruction in Technical Training.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Human Resources Research Organization, Alexandria, VA.

    Although the concept of automated instruction is not new, it has gained major support only in the past 3 years. These 12 papers describe research in the area of instructional methods for technical training. The scientific principles of learning and their applicability to automated instruction are discussed, with emphasis on the role of automated…

  20. Development of Graduates' Attributes in Chemistry within an Open Distance Learning (ODL) Environment: UNISA's Experience

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Tafesse, Fikru; Mphahlele, Malose J.

    2018-01-01

    Discipline-specific knowledge and associated technical skills as well as generic skills have represented distinct and separate aspects of chemical sciences in university studies (linear training). In addition to technical skills gained through laboratory training, employers now require a soft skill set such as strengths in analytical thinking,…

  1. The Application and Evaluation of PLATO IV in AF Technical Training.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mockovak, William P.; And Others

    The Air Force has been plagued with the rising cost of technical training and has increasingly turned to computer-assisted instruction (CAI) for better cost effectiveness. Toward this aim a trial of PLATO IV, a CAI system utilizing a graphic display and centered at the University of Illinois, was initiated at the Chanute and Sheppard training…

  2. Skiing, Cheese Fondue and Swiss Watches: Analogical Discourse in Vocational Training Interactions

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Filliettaz, Laurent; de Saint-Georges, Ingrid; Duc, Barbara

    2010-01-01

    When trainers or teachers in the field of initial vocational education explain abstract notions, refer to technical objects or emphasize the specificities of technical skills, they often call forth concepts and practices different from those that are directly salient in the training situations in which they engage. The aim of this paper is to…

  3. Technical Vocational Education and Training for Micro-Enterprise Development in Ethiopia: A Solution or Part of the Problem?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Gondo, Tendayi; Dafuleya, Gift

    2010-01-01

    Technical vocational education and training (TVET) programmes have recently received increased attention as an area of priority for stimulating growth in developed and developing countries. This paper considers the situation in Ethiopia where the promotion of micro and small-sized enterprises (MSEs) has been central to the development and…

  4. Definitive Readings in the History, Philosophy, Theories and Practice of Career and Technical Education

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wang, Victor C. X., Ed.

    2010-01-01

    In this information age, career and technical education (CTE) has become a multibillion dollar training enterprise. To make the students more competitive in the labor force and to make the nation economically strong and firms internationally competitive, everyone has to depend on CTE to train today's workers of various kinds. This book brings…

  5. A Curriculum to Enhance Decision-Making Skills of Technical Personnel Working in Teams

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Raju, P. K.; Sankar, Chetan S.; Xue, Yajiong

    2004-01-01

    Rapidly changing engineering designs and business scenarios make it essential for engineers and technical personnel to be trained to be effective team players and project managers. This paper reports the experiences gained in developing and implementing a workshop to train engineers at a steel manufacturing plant. The objective of the workshop was…

  6. Technical Assistance and Training from the Document Design Project. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    American Institutes for Research, Washington, DC.

    Contained in this report is a description of the technical assistance and training phase of the Document Design Project, a program funded by the National Institute of Education and intended to address and correct the readability problems posed by public documents. The first section of the report provides background material on the assistance and…

  7. Jobsite Supervisor Instructor's Manual for Electrical Apprentice Technical Training. Revised to Meet 1978 Electrical Code.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    North Carolina State Dept. of Community Colleges, Raleigh.

    One hundred and sixteen lesson plans for a first, second, third and fourth year electrical apprentice technical training program are presented in this manual. The lesson plans are generally organized into four steps: introducing the lesson, presenting the lessons (e.g., demonstration), student application (use of worksheets), and checking and…

  8. JTPA Summer Youth Enrichment: A Change Agent Guide. A Technical Assistance and Training Series.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bruno, A. Lee; Meltzer, Ann S.

    This technical assistance guide is intended to aid teachers and trainers in Job Training Partnership Act Service Delivery Area (SDA) summer programs that are components of work force skill development programs for youths. It is aimed especially at SDAs that either are experiencing or anticipating resistance to change from their organizations,…

  9. Technical and Vocational Education and Training and the Labour Market in Israel

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Eisenberg, Eli

    2006-01-01

    The aim of this report is to contribute to a better understanding of the current status of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) for human resources development (HRD) and the labour market in Israel. It describes the role and involvement of the various sectors in HRD and identifies the barriers, challenges, priorities, initiatives…

  10. Quality and Quality Assurance in Technical and Vocational Education and Training. Thematic Studies

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Seyfried, Erwin

    2008-01-01

    In many countries in both the Mediterranean region and the European Union (EU), interest in the quality of, and improvements to, technical and vocational education and training (TVET) systems has increased progressively in recent years. The main reason underlying this interest is a growing awareness of the key role played by education and training…

  11. Naval Shipyard Apprentice Program & Community-Technical College Linkages: A Model for Success.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cantor, Jeffrey A.

    Each of the eight shipyards operated by the U.S. Navy administers a formal 4-year apprentice trades training program. The apprentice programs combine daily on-the-job training with classroom instruction in technical subjects related to work requirements, including shop math, chemistry, physics, and mechanical drafting. The programs are designed to…

  12. An Assessment of Workplace Skills Acquired by Students of Vocational and Technical Education Institutions

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bakar, Ab Rahim; Mohamed, Shamsiah; Hamzah, Ramlah

    2013-01-01

    This study was performed to identify the employability skills of technical students from the Industrial Training Institutes (ITI) and Indigenous People's Trust Council (MARA) Skills Training Institutes (IKM) in Malaysia. The study sample consisted of 850 final year trainees of IKM and ITI. The sample was chosen by a random sampling procedure from…

  13. Laundry and Drycleaning Supervisor, 18-4. Military Curriculum Materials for Vocational and Technical Education.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ohio State Univ., Columbus. National Center for Research in Vocational Education.

    This instructional package for laundry/dry cleaning supervisor training has been adapted from military curriculum materials for use in vocational and technical education programs. The course is designed to train personnel to perform duties in the supervision and operation of a laundry/dry cleaning facility. This instructional package contains both…

  14. Gender Planning and Vocational Education, and Technical Training in Palestine: An Initial Framework. Gender and Society Working Paper #4.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Nahleh, Lamis Abu

    Gender planning and vocational education and technical training (VETT) in Palestine were examined through the following: review of available literature and policy-oriented reports, discussions with educators in the field, and roundtable discussion in which representatives of the Palestinian Ministry of Education and Ministry of Labor and experts…

  15. Determinants of Entrepreneurial Intentions: Technical-Vocational Education and Training Students in Ethiopia

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Buli, Bereket Mamo; Yesuf, Wasihun Mohammed

    2015-01-01

    Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to examine factors that could explain the difference in entrepreneurial intention (EI) among technical-vocational education and training (TVET) program students. Centered on the theory of planned behavior (TPB), the paper aims to contribute to the understanding of factors that affect EIs of students and offer…

  16. The Changing Role of Vocational and Technical Education and Training. Synthesis of Country Reports.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, Paris (France).

    In preparation for a conference held in Paris, France, in November 1994, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) launched a 5-year program that involved 20 countries studying the changing role of vocational and technical education and training (VOTEC). This report synthesizes 18 country reports on major recent developments…

  17. Technical and Vocational Education and Training in Fiji--An Overview. Case Studies on Technical and Vocational Education in Asia and the Pacific.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Delailomaloma, N. H.

    The Fiji economy has undergone structural transformation as the importance of agriculture, construction, social and community services, finance, and insurance declined, whereas that of hotels and catering, transportation, communication, and mining rose. Capacity utilization, including absorption of already trained and educated people into…

  18. 42 CFR 80.42 - Definitions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... training means all technical training courses conducted directly by NIOSH for personnel of State and local... Health. (d) Registration Office means the Direct Training Registration Office, NIOSH, 1014 Broadway...

  19. Technical writing versus technical writing

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Dillingham, J. W.

    1981-01-01

    Two terms, two job categories, 'technical writer' and 'technical author' are discussed in terms of industrial and business requirements and standards. A distinction between 'technical writing' and technical 'writing' is made. The term 'technical editor' is also considered. Problems inherent in the design of programs to prepare and train students for these jobs are discussed. A closer alliance between industry and academia is suggested as a means of preparing students with competent technical communication skills (especially writing and editing skills) and good technical skills.

  20. Endoscopic non-technical skills team training: the next step in quality assurance of endoscopy training.

    PubMed

    Matharoo, Manmeet; Haycock, Adam; Sevdalis, Nick; Thomas-Gibson, Siwan

    2014-12-14

    To investigate whether novel, non-technical skills training for Bowel Cancer Screening (BCS) endoscopy teams enhanced patient safety knowledge and attitudes. A novel endoscopy team training intervention for BCS teams was developed and evaluated as a pre-post intervention study. Four multi-disciplinary BCS teams constituting BCS endoscopist(s), specialist screening practitioners, endoscopy nurses and administrative staff (A) from English BCS training centres participated. No patients were involved in this study. Expert multidisciplinary faculty delivered a single day's training utilising real clinical examples. Pre and post-course evaluation comprised participants' patient safety awareness, attitudes, and knowledge. Global course evaluations were also collected. Twenty-three participants attended and their patient safety knowledge improved significantly from 43%-55% (P ≤ 0.001) following the training intervention. 12/41 (29%) of the safety attitudes items significantly improved in the areas of perceived patient safety knowledge and awareness. The remaining safety attitude items: perceived influence on patient safety, attitudes towards error management, error management actions and personal views following an error were unchanged following training. Both qualitative and quantitative global course evaluations were positive: 21/23 (91%) participants strongly agreed/agreed that they were satisfied with the course. Qualitative evaluation included mandating such training for endoscopy teams outside BCS and incorporating team training within wider endoscopy training. Limitations of the study include no measure of increased patient safety in clinical practice following training. A novel comprehensive training package addressing patient safety, non-technical skills and adverse event analysis was successful in improving multi-disciplinary teams' knowledge and safety attitudes.

  1. Endoscopic non-technical skills team training: The next step in quality assurance of endoscopy training

    PubMed Central

    Matharoo, Manmeet; Haycock, Adam; Sevdalis, Nick; Thomas-Gibson, Siwan

    2014-01-01

    AIM: To investigate whether novel, non-technical skills training for Bowel Cancer Screening (BCS) endoscopy teams enhanced patient safety knowledge and attitudes. METHODS: A novel endoscopy team training intervention for BCS teams was developed and evaluated as a pre-post intervention study. Four multi-disciplinary BCS teams constituting BCS endoscopist(s), specialist screening practitioners, endoscopy nurses and administrative staff (A) from English BCS training centres participated. No patients were involved in this study. Expert multidisciplinary faculty delivered a single day’s training utilising real clinical examples. Pre and post-course evaluation comprised participants’ patient safety awareness, attitudes, and knowledge. Global course evaluations were also collected. RESULTS: Twenty-three participants attended and their patient safety knowledge improved significantly from 43%-55% (P ≤ 0.001) following the training intervention. 12/41 (29%) of the safety attitudes items significantly improved in the areas of perceived patient safety knowledge and awareness. The remaining safety attitude items: perceived influence on patient safety, attitudes towards error management, error management actions and personal views following an error were unchanged following training. Both qualitative and quantitative global course evaluations were positive: 21/23 (91%) participants strongly agreed/agreed that they were satisfied with the course. Qualitative evaluation included mandating such training for endoscopy teams outside BCS and incorporating team training within wider endoscopy training. Limitations of the study include no measure of increased patient safety in clinical practice following training. CONCLUSION: A novel comprehensive training package addressing patient safety, non-technical skills and adverse event analysis was successful in improving multi-disciplinary teams’ knowledge and safety attitudes. PMID:25516665

  2. Bat habitat research. Final technical report

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

    Keller, B.L.; Bosworth, W.R.; Doering, R.W.

    This progress report describes activities over the current reporting period to characterize the habitats of bats on the INEL. Research tasks are entitled Monitoring bat habitation of caves on the INEL to determine species present, numbers, and seasons of use; Monitor bat use of man-made ponds at the INEL to determine species present and rates of use of these waters; If the Big Lost River is flowing on the INEL and/or if the Big Lost River sinks contain water, determine species present, numbers and seasons of use; Determine the habitat requirement of Townsend`s big-eared bats, including the microclimate of cavesmore » containing Townsend`s big-eared bats as compared to other caves that do not contain bats; Determine and describe an economical and efficient bat census technique to be used periodically by INEL scientists to determine the status of bats on the INEL; and Provide a suggestive management and protective plan for bat species on the INEL that might, in the future, be added to the endangered and sensitive list;« less

  3. Industrial hearing conservation.

    PubMed

    Glorig, A

    1979-08-01

    Hearing conservation programs, when appropriate in industry, are now a necessity. Even though one may not wish to adopt an altruistic attitude toward the conservation of hearing, one must, like it or not, initiate a hearing conservation program because of both federal and state regulations. Since industrial noise exposure produced more hearing loss in more people than all other causes of hearing loss combined, it is incumbent on all industries with noise makers to do something about protecting human hearing. The tragedy is that nearly all industrial hearing loss can be prevented with proper hearing conservation measures. The cost of hearing conservation is far less than the cost of hearing loss in terms of human suffering and dollars in the compensation courts. Proper education of both managment and labor can result in successful hearing conservation programs. The method of choice is reduction of the noise at the source, but in many cases this is infeasible both technically and economically and therefore protection at the ear must be used. Experience has shown that with proper supervision ear protection programs can prevent the majority of instances of hearing loss in the majority of individuals exposed.

  4. Simulation-based team training improved the self-assessed ability of physicians, nurses and midwives to perform neonatal resuscitation.

    PubMed

    Malmström, B; Nohlert, E; Ewald, U; Widarsson, M

    2017-08-01

    The use of simulation-based team training in neonatal resuscitation has increased in Sweden during the last decade, but no formal evaluation of this training method has been performed. This study evaluated the effect of simulation-based team training on the self-assessed ability of personnel to perform neonatal resuscitation. We evaluated a full-day simulation-based team training course in neonatal resuscitation, by administering a questionnaire to 110 physicians, nurses and midwives before and after the training period. The questionnaire focused on four important domains: communication, leadership, confidence and technical skills. The study was carried out in Sweden from 2005 to 2007. The response rate was 84%. Improvements in the participants' self-assessed ability to perform neonatal resuscitation were seen in all four domains after training (p < 0.001). Professionally inexperienced personnel showed a significant improvement in the technical skills domain compared to experienced personnel (p = 0.001). No differences were seen between professions or time since training in any of the four domains. Personnel with less previous experience with neonatal resuscitation showed improved confidence (p = 0.007) and technical skills (p = 0.003). A full-day course on simulation-based team training with video-supported debriefing improved the participants' self-assessed ability to perform neonatal resuscitation. ©2017 Foundation Acta Paediatrica. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  5. Effectiveness of Virtual Reality Training in Orthopaedic Surgery.

    PubMed

    Aïm, Florence; Lonjon, Guillaume; Hannouche, Didier; Nizard, Rémy

    2016-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic review to determine the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) training in orthopaedic surgery. A comprehensive systematic review was performed of articles of VR training in orthopaedic surgery published up to November 2014 from MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases. We included 10 relevant trials of 91 identified articles, which all reported on training in arthroscopic surgery (shoulder, n = 5; knee, n = 4; undefined, n = 1). A total of 303 participants were involved. Assessment after training was made on a simulator in 9 of the 10 studies, and in one study it took place in the operating room (OR) on a real patient. A total of 32 different outcomes were extracted; 29 of them were about skills assessment. None involved a patient-related outcome. One study focused on anatomic learning, and the other evaluated technical task performance before and after training on a VR simulator. Five studies established construct validity. Three studies reported a statistically significant improvement in technical skills after training on a VR simulator. VR training leads to an improvement of technical skills in orthopaedic surgery. Before its widespread use, additional trials are needed to clarify the transfer of VR training to the OR. Systematic review of Level I through Level IV studies. Copyright © 2016 Arthroscopy Association of North America. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  6. Device-Training for Individuals with Thoracic and Lumbar Spinal Cord Injury Using a Powered Exoskeleton for Technically Assisted Mobility: Achievements and User Satisfaction

    PubMed Central

    Gillner, Annett; Borgwaldt, Nicole; Kroll, Sylvia; Roschka, Sybille

    2016-01-01

    Objective. Results of a device-training for nonambulatory individuals with thoracic and lumbar spinal cord injury (SCI) using a powered exoskeleton for technically assisted mobility with regard to the achieved level of control of the system after training, user satisfaction, and effects on quality of life (QoL). Methods. Observational single centre study with a 4-week to 5-week intensive inpatient device-training using a powered exoskeleton (ReWalk™). Results. All 7 individuals with SCI who commenced the device-training completed the course of training and achieved basic competences to use the system, that is, the ability to stand up, sit down, keep balance while standing, and walk indoors, at least with a close contact guard. User satisfaction with the system and device-training was documented for several aspects. The quality of life evaluation (SF-12v2™) indicated that the use of the powered exoskeleton can have positive effects on the perception of individuals with SCI regarding what they can achieve physically. Few adverse events were observed: minor skin lesions and irritations were observed; no falls occurred. Conclusions. The device-training for individuals with thoracic and lumbar SCI was effective and safe. All trained individuals achieved technically assisted mobility with the exoskeleton while still needing a close contact guard. PMID:27610382

  7. Sustainable Library Development Training Package

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Peace Corps, 2012

    2012-01-01

    This Sustainable Library Development Training Package supports Peace Corps' Focus In/Train Up strategy, which was implemented following the 2010 Comprehensive Agency Assessment. Sustainable Library Development is a technical training package in Peace Corps programming within the Education sector. The training package addresses the Volunteer…

  8. Competency-Based Education in Low Resource Settings: Development of a Novel Surgical Training Program.

    PubMed

    McCullough, Meghan; Campbell, Alex; Siu, Armando; Durnwald, Libby; Kumar, Shubha; Magee, William P; Swanson, Jordan

    2018-03-01

    The unmet burden of surgical disease represents a major global health concern, and a lack of trained providers is a critical component of the inadequacy of surgical care worldwide. Competency-based training has been advanced in high-income countries, improving technical skills and decreasing training time, but it is poorly understood how this model might be applied to low- and middle-income countries. We describe the development of a competency-based program to accelerate specialty training of in-country providers in cleft surgery techniques. The program was designed and piloted among eight trainees at five international cleft lip and palate surgical mission sites in Latin America and Africa. A competency-based evaluation form, designed for the program, was utilized to grade general technical and procedure-specific competencies, and pre- and post-training scores were analyzed using a paired t test. Trainees demonstrated improvement in average procedure-specific competency scores for both lip repairs (60.4-71.0%, p < 0.01) and palate (50.6-66.0%, p < 0.01). General technical competency scores also improved (63.6-72.0%, p < 0.01). Among the procedural competencies assessed, surgical markings showed the greatest improvement (19.0 and 22.8% for lip and palate, respectively), followed by nasal floor/mucosal approximation (15.0%) and hard palate dissection (17.1%). Surgical delivery models in LMICs are varied, and trade-offs often exist between goals of case throughput, quality and training. Pilot program results show that procedure-specific and general technical competencies can be improved over a relatively short time and demonstrate the feasibility of incorporating such a training program into surgical outreach missions.

  9. Exploring the Benefits of Teacher-Modeling Strategies Integrated into Career and Technical Education

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cathers, Thomas J., Sr.

    2013-01-01

    This case study examined how career and technical education classes function using multiple instructional modeling strategies integrated into vocational and technical training environments. Seven New Jersey public school technical teachers received an introductory overview of the investigation and participated by responding to 10 open-end…

  10. Proceedings-1979 third annual practical conference on communication

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

    Not Available

    1981-04-01

    Topics covered at the meeting include: nonacademic writing, writer and editor training in technical publications, readability of technical documents, guide for beginning technical editors, a visual aids data base, newsletter publishing, style guide for a project management organization, word processing, computer graphics, text management for technical documentation, and typographical terminology.

  11. An Input Evaluation of Three Technical Assistance Needs Assessment Strategies.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Suarez, Tanya M.; Cox, James O.

    The Technical Assistance Development System--TADS (a project to provide technical assistance to personnel implementing programs for preschool handicapped children and their families) conducted an evaluation of three technical assistance needs assessment strategies during 1979-80. The three strategies were: (1) on-site--conducted by a trained needs…

  12. Technical and Vocational Education in Nigeria: Issues, Challenges and a Way Forward

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Okoye, Reko; Arimonu, Maxwell Onyenwe

    2016-01-01

    Technical education, as enshrined in the Nigerian national policy on education, is concerned with qualitative technological human resources development directed towards a national pool of skilled and self reliant craftsmen, technicians and technologists in technical and vocational education fields. In Nigeria, the training of technical personnel…

  13. Using simulation to train orthopaedic trainees in non-technical skills: A pilot study.

    PubMed

    Heaton, Samuel R; Little, Zoe; Akhtar, Kash; Ramachandran, Manoj; Lee, Joshua

    2016-08-18

    To enhance non-technical skills and to analyse participant's experience of a course tailored for orthopaedic surgeons. A Delphi technique was used to develop a course in human factors specific to orthopaedic residents. Twenty-six residents (six per course) participated in total with seven course facilitators all trained in Crisis Resource Management providing structured feedback. Six scenarios recreated challenging real-life situations using high-fidelity mannequins and simulated patients. Environments included a simulated operating suite, clinic room and ward setting. All were undertaken in a purpose built simulation suite utilising actors, mock operating rooms, mock clinical rooms and a high fidelity adult patient simulator organised through a simulation control room. Participants completed a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire (strongly disagree to strongly agree) before and after the course. This assessed their understanding of non-technical skills, scenario validity, relevance to orthopaedic training and predicted impact of the course on future practice. A course evaluation questionnaire was also completed to assess participants' feedback on the value and quality of the course itself. Twenty-six orthopaedic residents participated (24 male, 2 female; post-graduation 5-10 years), mean year of residency program 2.6 out of 6 years required in the United Kingdom. Pre-course questionnaires showed that while the majority of candidates recognised the importance of non-technical (NT) skills in orthopaedic training they demonstrated poor understanding of non-technical skills and their role. This improved significantly after the course (Likert score 3.0-4.2) and the perceived importance of these skills was reported as good or very good in 100%. The course was reported as enjoyable and provided an unthreatening learning environment with the candidates placing particular value on the learning opportunity provided by reflecting on their performance. All agreed that the course achieved its intended aims with realistic simulation scenarios. Participants believed patient care, patient safety and team working would all improve with further human factors training (4.4-4.6). and felt that NT skills learnt through simulation-based training should become an integral component of their training program. Participants demonstrated improved understanding of non-technical performance, recognised its relevance to patient safety and expressed a desire for its integration in training.

  14. 13 CFR 306.2 - Award requirements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... 306.2 Business Credit and Assistance ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE TRAINING, RESEARCH AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE INVESTMENTS Local and National Technical Assistance § 306.2 Award requirements. EDA selects Projects for Local and National Technical Assistance Investments in...

  15. 13 CFR 306.2 - Award requirements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... 306.2 Business Credit and Assistance ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE TRAINING, RESEARCH AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE INVESTMENTS Local and National Technical Assistance § 306.2 Award requirements. EDA selects Projects for Local and National Technical Assistance Investments in...

  16. 13 CFR 306.2 - Award requirements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... 306.2 Business Credit and Assistance ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE TRAINING, RESEARCH AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE INVESTMENTS Local and National Technical Assistance § 306.2 Award requirements. EDA selects Projects for Local and National Technical Assistance Investments in...

  17. 13 CFR 306.2 - Award requirements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... 306.2 Business Credit and Assistance ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE TRAINING, RESEARCH AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE INVESTMENTS Local and National Technical Assistance § 306.2 Award requirements. EDA selects Projects for Local and National Technical Assistance Investments in...

  18. Classification of Newborn Ear Malformations and their Treatment with the EarWell Infant Ear Correction System.

    PubMed

    Daniali, Lily N; Rezzadeh, Kameron; Shell, Cheryl; Trovato, Matthew; Ha, Richard; Byrd, H Steve

    2017-03-01

    A single practice's treatment protocol and outcomes following molding therapy on newborn ear deformations and malformations with the EarWell Infant Ear Correction System were reviewed. A classification system for grading the severity of constricted ear malformations was created on the basis of anatomical findings. A retrospective chart/photograph review of a consecutive series of infants treated with the EarWell System from 2011 to 2014 was undertaken. The infants were placed in either deformation or malformation groups. Three classes of malformation were identified. Data regarding treatment induction, duration of treatment, and quality of outcome were collected for all study patients. One hundred seventy-five infant ear malformations and 303 infant ear deformities were treated with the EarWell System. The average age at initiation of treatment was 12 days; the mean duration of treatment was 37 days. An average of six office visits was required. Treated malformations included constricted ears [172 ears (98 percent)] and cryptotia [three ears (2 percent)]. Cup ear (34 ears) was considered a constricted malformation, in contrast to the prominent ear deformity. Constricted ears were assigned to one of three classes, with each subsequent class indicating increasing severity: class I, 77 ears (45 percent); class II, 81 ears (47 percent); and class III, 14 ears (8 percent). Molding therapy with the EarWell System reduced the severity by an average of 1.2 points (p < 0.01). Complications included minor superficial excoriations and abrasions. The EarWell System was shown to be effective in eliminating or reducing the need for surgery in all but the most severe malformations. Therapeutic, IV.

  19. Simulation For Task Practice in Technical Training.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mallory, W. J.

    1981-01-01

    Describes two programs used by the Ford Motor Company to train manufacturing skilled trades personnel. Programmable Controller Maintenance Training Program for Industrial Technicians and Troubleshooting Strategy Program use simulation and provide improved task performance after training. (JOW)

  20. Toward an objective assessment of technical skills: a national survey of surgical program directors in Saudi Arabia.

    PubMed

    Alkhayal, Abdullah; Aldhukair, Shahla; Alselaim, Nahar; Aldekhayel, Salah; Alhabdan, Sultan; Altaweel, Waleed; Magzoub, Mohi Elden; Zamakhshary, Mohammed

    2012-01-01

    After almost a decade of implementing competency-based programs in postgraduate training programs, the assessment of technical skills remains more subjective than objective. National data on the assessment of technical skills during surgical training are lacking. We conducted this study to document the assessment tools for technical skills currently used in different surgical specialties, their relationship with remediation, the recommended tools from the program directors' perspective, and program directors' attitudes toward the available objective tools to assess technical skills. This study was a cross-sectional survey of surgical program directors (PDs). The survey was initially developed using a focus group and was then sent to 116 PDs. The survey contains demographic information about the program, the objective assessment tools used, and the reason for not using assessment tools. The last section discusses the recommended tools to be used from the PDs' perspective and the PDs' attitude and motivation to apply these tools in each program. The associations between the responses to the assessment questions and remediation were statistically evaluated. Seventy-one (61%) participants responded. Of the respondents, 59% mentioned using only nonstandardized, subjective, direct observation for technical skills assessment. Sixty percent use only summative evaluation, whereas 15% perform only formative evaluations of their residents, and the remaining 22% conduct both summative and formative evaluations of their residents' technical skills. Operative portfolios are kept by 53% of programs. The percentage of programs with mechanisms for remediation is 29% (19 of 65). The survey showed that surgical training programs use different tools to assess surgical skills competency. Having a clear remediation mechanism was highly associated with reporting remediation, which reflects the capability to detect struggling residents. Surgical training leadership should invest more in standardizing the assessment of surgical skills.

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